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SOL News
Cabo De Gata One Of The Most Popular Rural Tourist Spot
Spain approves share listing of airports giant Aena
Spain approved the sale of a stake in airport operator Aena IPO-AENA.MC on Friday, kicking off its biggest privatisation since 1997 and testing investor faith in the country’s economic recovery in an election year. Shares in the world’s largest airport operator will be traded for the first time on Feb. 11, after a 49 percent stake is sold to institutions and individuals. Aena is likely to be valued between 6.4 billion and 8.3 billion euros ($9.3 billion). “This is a prime asset, there is demand, but it’s all a question of price,” a source at one of Europe’s largest pension funds told Reuters. Even though the sale process has been an on-off affair, beset by political and technical complications which led to it being postponed at the end of October, the company’s prospects are looking up. An improving business outlook as economic growth gathers pace, tourism picks up and oil prices remain low, should provide a higher valuation than initially expected, people familiar with the process say. Spain was the world’s third most-visited nation in 2014, with 65 million visitors. reuters.com
by Martin Shortland
The reasons are numerous. It could be the beauty of the secluded and near deserted beaches, the stark beauty of the rare flora and fauna, or the copper sunsets which reflect the light given off by the sometimes barren landscape. Or maybe because it’s a land of inspiration for poets, photographers and painters, or perhaps because it still holds as a private treasure the authenticity of its people and traditions. Whatever the reasons are for visiting the Cabo de Gata, they’re clearly very special, because last year the National Park came sixth in the list of the most visited destinations in Spain. No mean feat. It falls into the category of ‘rural tourism’; somewhere where people can get away from the crowds and relax in a ‘close to nature’ environment. The Cabo de Gata has a year round appeal – equally enjoyable in both summer and winter. The coastal areas provide a wide variety of water sporting activities, whilst inland, walking, hiking, horse riding and even quad biking all provide the outdoor adventurer with numerous opportunities. Of the towns within the National Park, San Jose is the largest and most commercial. It has a large
marina and a good sandy beach, but still retains much of the character of the original village which climbs the hillside above the sea. Further up the craggy coast are the charming hamlets of Los Escullios and Las Negras, offering secluded bays and rocky cliffs, whilst inland is the mysterious and deserted old mining town of Rodalquillar. Coming second in the overall list is the nearby Desert of Tabernas, to the north east of Almeria and a favoured location for film producers from around the world. Only last year the American director, Ridley Scott spent six weeks filming large parts of the religious blockbuster ‘Exodus’ – released in December - in and around the region. Another religious epic, ‘Clavious’ has only recently finished a two month shoot, again using locations in the Tabernas, Cabo de Gata and the Almeria area; the centre piece of the film being a huge set constructed beneath the walls of the Alcazaba, depicting the old city of Jerusalem. The film is due for release towards the end of this year. It’s estimated that such large productions bring upwards of 6 million euros to the region.
‘Ello, Ello, It’s Christmas
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Campoverde Theatre Group played to packed audiences when they performed their latest supper show ‘Ello, Ello, It’s Christmas at the Lo Monte Hotel on the weekend of 17th January. The audience were laughing heartily from the opening lines to the final song. When every well known character appeared on stage loud cheers were heard from the audience who enjoyed every moment of this show. At the end of the performance the audience were calling for more. The play, written and directed by Vida Nelson, was very funny, and whilst incorporating many of the well know catch phrases from the show also gave a new story line to this comedy classic. There were excellent performances from all cast members of this long established and talented company. It is very hard to single out individual performances as all the cast played
their roles excellent and fully in keeping with the television original. However special mention must go to Colin Nelson gave a great performance as Rene, with many people saying that he even looked very like him too and Mark Lord was excellent as Herr Flick. Everyone commented on the excellence of the performance and how witty the script was. Now Campoverde Theatre Group are getting ready for their next production, a variety show entitled “ Let Us Entertain You!”. New members are always welcome and the group would particularly like more men into the company. If you can sing, dance, act or take on any of the back stage roles come along to the rehearsals at the Community Centre, Blue Lagoon on Monday 9th February or phone 6470579 068 or 626 772 256 for more details.
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SOL News
What’s on in Spain:
February 2015
From blowing away the cobwebs at the Seville marathon to marvelling at the creating of the most exciting new designers at Madrid fashion week, here are some of the best events going on around Spain in February, all guaranteed to beat those winter blues. Arts and style Madrid Fashion Week , February 14th – 18th: The Spanish capital turns on the glitz and glamour for Madrid Fashion Week this month, when designers, from established Spanish classics like Agatha Ruiz de la Prada to a host of exciting young newcomers show their latest creations. Animac, international animated film festival, (Lleida, Catalonia), February 19th – 22nd: If you’re a fan of animation, the Animac animated film festival might be right up your street. This annual, non-competitive film showcase brings together some of the best animators from around the world to showcase their latest film. 2015 will mark the 19th anniversary of the festival. Jerez flamenco festival (Jerez, Andalusia), February 20th – March 7th: Jerez, in southern Spain, transforms into the world capital of flamenco in February with dozens of events, performances and shows featuring the passionate Spanish dance. Festivals La Endiablada devil festival (Almonacid, near Cuenca), February 1st – 4th: Every year at the beginning of February, visitors flock to the small town of Almonacid del Marquesado near Cuenca where locals celebrate La Endiablada, or the ‘devil festival’. Locals dress up as devils and roam the streets in a tradition dating back to the 13th century. The festival celebrates the Purification of the Virgin Mary, or La Candelaria, as well as the patron saint of the town, San Blas. San Cecilio festival (Granada): San Cecilio, the patron saint of Granada, is celebrated in this festival which centres on Sacromonte, the whitewashed area of the city traditionally home to gypsies and flamenco dancers, who performed in the caves dotted around the hillside overlooking Granada. During the festival, it is traditional to visit the monastery of Sacromonte then enjoy good food and dancing well into the night. Sitges Carnival, February 10th – 18th: Over 250,000 people flock to the coastal town of Sitges about 35km (22 miles) from Barcelona, every February for one of the biggest gay carnivals in the world. The week is packed with parades, parties and shows and the gay-friendly town opens its doors to thousands of revellers. Cadiz Carnival, February 12th – 22nd: One of the best known carnivals in Spain, Cadiz Carnival’s origins date back to the 16th century. These days it’s all about dressing up and poking fun at politicians and people in the news, as well as the usual eating and drinking of course. Las Palmas carnival, Gran Canaria, January 31st – February 21st: If you like your carnivals flashy, loud and sequinned then this Rio-style carnival is for you. For three weeks Gran Canaria ups the glitz and includes parades, dressing up and beachcentred activities under the (hopefully) gloriously sunny Canary island weather. Sport El Derbí (Madrid) – Real Madrid vs Atlético Madrid , February 7th, 4pm: One of the biggest games of Spanish football takes place this month, when Madrid’s two big teams face off against each other in Atlético’s Vicente Caldarón stadium. Will Real make up for their recent loss against their cross-city rivals during the King’s Cup? Seville marathon (Seville), February 22nd, 9am: If hills aren’t your thing, why not take part in the flattest marathon in Europe, which takes in some of the most picturesque sights of Seville along the route. Registration is open till February 18th if you fancy taking up a New Year´s challenge. Otherwise, why not lend your support to the runners by cheering them on from the side lines?
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40-year veteran of ‘Coronation Street,’ dies
ort
Anne Kirkbride, who played Deirdre Barlow for more than 40 years on the long-running UK soap opera “Coronation Street,” has died. She was 60. The death was confirmed in a post on the website for ITV, the network that airs the show. “There are no words to describe the sense of grief we feel at Anne’s passing,” executive producer Kieran Roberts said in the post. “We know only too acutely how much Anne meant to the millions of people who watched her create the legendary character of Deirdre Barlow.” Kirkbride first showed up on “Coronation Street,” the world’s longest-running soap opera, in 1972 as a teenager with a handful of lines. Within a few years, she had entered into a short-lived marriage with one character and then a romance and marriage with another, Ken Barlow (William Roache, who’d been on the show since its inception in 1960). According to the Guardian, at one point, the scoreboard at a Manchester United game informed a stadium full of fans that “Deirdre and Ken united
again!” The raspy-voiced character -Kirkbride had a long smoking habit - was Kirkbride’s main claim to fame, though she started in the theater and was first noticed in another program, a 1972 filmed play called “Another Sunday and Sweet F.A.” Intensely private, she once told the Guardian’s Anthony Hayward that she was perfectly happy with staying true to “Coronation Street.” “I just enjoy having something to do that’s good, something that’s interesting and gives me a lot of scope,” she said. “I wouldn’t be here if I wanted to perform Shakespeare.” Kirkbride was a survivor of nonHodgkin lymphoma -- she lost her hair and acted in a wig for a time -- and talked about her depression in a 2012 documentary, “Deirdre & Me: 40 Years on Coronation Street.” She was also an accomplished painter. She is survived by her husband, actor David Beckett. Farewell Anne from all of your friends in Spain. cnn.com
The Alcazaba Sets New Visitor Record by Martin Shortland
Considered to be one of the greatest historical monuments in Spain, the Alcazaba in Almeria has had a chequered history. And I don’t mean in its distant past when it defended the barren and inhospitable lands that stretched from the coastal plain at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, right down towards what is now Malaga. When the Moors were finally driven from Andalucia after their 400 year occupation, the Alcazaba was their final stronghold before they returned to North Africa. I’m referring to its chequered history as a tourist attraction. The 21st century has until recently, not been a very good one for the ancient castle which dominates the skyline above the regional capitol. The problems have all been about how the monument should be run. Now with such an iconic, imposing and well preserved building which dates back some 750 years, it would seem a fairly easy site to promote. Open the doors seven days a week, 360 days a year, from 10 am until 10 pm and let the visitors flock in. But sadly that hasn’t been the case. The local council, tourist authority and even the regional tourist board have all had a fairly good go at messing it up. So much so that two years ago – believe it or not - it came close to being closed. The problem was staffing levels. The council – which owns the site – were concerned about the increased wage demands being asked for by the union whose members work at the castle. The council felt they were unrealistic and in response to the union action, threatened to lay off staff and cut the hours of those who remained. The cut in working hours would also mean a dramatic cut in the hours the site would be open to the public. It’s quite unbelievable, but true. And let me remind you, lest you’ve forgotten, we’re talking about one of the major historical buildings in the whole of Spain. The dispute rumbled on for the best part of a year, with neither side willing to agree to a compromise: quite why the situation had arisen in the first place is any ones guess. Staff members – many of whom had worked at the site for years – made it very clear that it was none of their doing; the disagreement was between the union and the council. And to prove their point to the public, they even offered to work extra hours for no pay in order to keep the castle open. Finally all the parties concerned realised, I assume, how stupid they’d all been and everything went back to how it had always been. And the upshot of that drama is now plain for everyone to see in the visitor numbers for last year which were released last Friday. An increase of 25% on the previous year saw almost 250,000 people visit the castle; that’s about 60,000 more than in 2013. It’s the largest number since records were first kept over 20 years ago and clearly a major victory, in the end, for sensibility.
Man in watermelon mask scares passengers
‘Watermelon Brother’ by internet users who are trying to work out the mystery man’s identity. One commuter told the Beijing Morning Post he was freaked out by the man and his hollowed-out melon mask.
A man has been questioned by police after travelling on the Beijing Metro with a watermelon on his head. Passengers and subway staff in the Chinese capital called police after several people said they were unnerved by the sight. The man has been nicknamed the
“It was so scary last night when I was on the metro,” he said. “This guy was just hanging around on the train wearing a watermelon mask with a beer bottle - apparently he was totally drunk.” orange.co.uk
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AMMA SPONSORED BY ICELAND.
A wonderful start to 2015 – Iceland in San Javier are to be our main sponsors for this year and various activities are in the planning stage to take place at their store. There will be collecting boxes in place and also a stand with leaflets which please do feel free to pick up. Representatives from AMMA will be there each Saturday so do please speak to them if you know of someone who has a family member suffering from dementia or Alzheimers. Over the year there will be various fund raising events taking place at Iceland so please watch for notices advertising what is planned for the future We are also pleased to say that Casa Verde in Torre de la Horadada are now on board with us and giving us our paid helpers. The Day Centre for Alzheimer and dementia patients is going from strength to strength and thanks must be expressed to everyone who has so kindly donated towards this. At the moment we are meeting twice a week on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9.30 to 12.30 and have approximately 11 patients attending. The two paid helpers are wonderful and have a great raporte with the patients, both English speaking and Spanish. It is working very well with both languages and there are a number of British volunteers who come along to help with the patients. Obviously we would be delighted to have even more volunteers to help on these two mornings and it is hoped, in the near future, to extend the Centre to four mornings a week. Also we are now thinking about fundraising in order to have a place of our own. At the moment San Pedro Town Hall have given us the use of a room at the Pensioners Club but it is not really large enough for us. Hopefully in the future with our fundraising we may be able to rent somewhere much larger. We are sure that there are many people in the area who have a husband, wife, partner, mother, father, etc who suffer and the carers are looking for help. Please, if you know of anyone in this situation tell them about our Day Centre. The patients do really benefit from it as do the carers as it gives them some time to themselves.
THE ROJALES PANTOMIME GROUP
Studio 32 New Season Starts
Throughout January, Show Director Susan Wilson and Stage Manager Linda Myers have been busy holding a number of workshops .The workshops included a range of topics including stage craft, acting skills, dancing and team building. Now becoming a popular part of Studios 32’s development, the workshops are open to anyone who is interested in theatre music and dance and following their recent success will be repeated prior to each new production. With auditions being held this week for the principle roles for Oklahoma, a singing workshop is planned for 15th of February. Things are well underway with the production of Oklahoma in June, but you can still come alongand join us, as we will always find places for people who want to join our chorus, particularly men! So if you want to give it a go, be part of a successful team and have some fun come along to rehearsals at Casa Ventura, San Luis on a Wednesday between 3.30pm and 6.30pm,or on Sunday’s between 11.00am and 2.30pm. Looking ahead, at the recent AGM, Studio 32 were able to announce that the pantomime for 2015 will be Dick Whittington, written by the tlc writing team from London, who enjoyed so
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HELP VEGA BAJA Cinderella was a huge success for The Rojales Pantomime group and raised 3,000 euros which will be shared between various local charities (To be agreed February.)
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Cinderella (Michele Martin) did a great job even though she had laryngitis. The Ugly Sisters (Lynden B and Andy Jones) had the audience in stitches and the kids shouting, screaming and laughing, they really stole the show. Lady Devilia, Wicked Step Mother (Mandy Bartlam) had the audience in fits when she had her husband, Baron Hardup (Cyril Derbyshire) rolling on the floor. Julie Pritchard made a very handsome Prince Charming with his chum Dandini (Thelma Judson) beside him. Taylor Knightsbridge and Christine Smith as Ant and Dec were Brokers
Men but very soon turned into Palace Security. Fairy Godmother was played by Tina Sinclair. Keeping all entertained was Buttons (Richard Kingston.) Never gets the love of his life, Cinders but does get the sympathy of the audience. Angie Gardener and Tracy Murdoch played a very strange looking Cow which the kids loved, one wanted to take it home with him. The costumes were spectacular, made by Christine Smith who also Directed the whole thing with the help of Mandy Bartlem as Assistant Director. Praise also goes to Les Wick and Derek Berry who designed , painted and made all the stage props, helped on the nights by a great back stage crew. If you are interested in joining them for next years panto. tel Mandy 685302529
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PRESIDENT VACANCY Due to other personal commitments, the current Acting President of HELP Vega Baja has decided not to stand for election as President at the Annual General Meeting which is due to be held on the 24th February at the Asturias Restaurant, Punta Prima. HELP Vega Baja therefore invites applications from existing members interested in the position of President to this well established charity which has helped people in time of need, regardless of age, gender, nationality or religion for over 35 years in the Vega Baja area. The new President will lead HELP Vega Baja in accordance with its statutes, aims and objectives and oversee, advise, support and contribute to all of the AssociationÕs activities and events. The position is voluntary and would therefore suit someone who has a commitment towards the aims and objectives of the charity and a desire to ensure its continued success in the future. If you would like to Þnd out more about this position, please contact our San Miguel ofÞce on 966 723 733 Monday to Friday, 10 am - 1.30 pm or email Richard Garland on ofÞce@helpvegabaja.com January, 2015/mlm
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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
? W O N K U O DID Y
Iberian Funeral Plans: registered in Spain | Portugal |UK
We spend about a third of every day in our beds which means that we will have spent 16 years in bed by the time we are 50! Depending on the type of person you are this could be longer, this is where I’ll say no more! A good night’s sleep plays a huge role in our quality of life and general health therefore it is crucial to have a bed which is suitable for your individual needs. For example, if you suffer from back problems then you should choose a mattress that provides the correct support for you. Studies have shown that 70% of general back pain and / or discomfort can be attributed to having a poor quality mattress. It is recommended that mattresses should be replaced every 6 years especially in hotter countries. This is due to the fact that we sweat an average of at least half a pint each night saturating the mattress and there creating a haven for dust mites and thus conditions that may affect our health as well as our sleep. In addition general wear and tear can reduce the amount of support your mattress provides. When you think you are living in Spain which is a hot country and in the summer we all sweat in bed more than in our homeland countries, bet those dust mites are in heaven! Do not even think about it. A good tip to help this matter is to have a mattress protector on your mattresses and wash them regularly. More than 4 or more times a year. I do mine at least once a month. Not a problem for getting them dry here. When buying a mattress many people make choices according to appearance rather than getting the bed and mattress suitable for their body and comfort. The majority of people aren’t even aware of the different types of mattresses
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available now. Such as the usual different sprung mattresses, Pocket Sprung Mattresses with or without Memory Foam and there’s the Orthopaedic. Now we must not forget Summer and Winter Side mattresses with different springs or foam, the summer side has a gel which helps keep you cool in the summer – great idea and I have just ordered one for myself. Allow yourself time to choose your new mattress and you don’t have to find the whole process too mind boggling with help from a good sales assistant. This is why it is so important that you “Try Before You Buy”, even keep trying the same mattress you prefer several times to make the correct choice for your requirements. Do not be embarrassed about trying the mattresses, other people are doing the same and we do not normally take photo’s. So enjoy yourselves jumping on and off mattresses together as it is a joint decision with the person you are sleeping with – Say no more! Written By Chris of Furniture Plus Centro Comercial La Piramide (Above Mercadona Opp. Lidl) Puerto de Mazarron Tel. 968 153 907
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Smoking’s bad for your health, but exactly how does quitting make life better? Here are 10 ways your health will improve when you stop smoking. The quitting timeline •A fter 20 minutes your blood pressure and pulse return to normal. • After 24 hours your lungs start to clear. • After two days your body is nicotine-free and your sense of taste and smell improve. • After three days you can breathe more easily, and your energy increases. • After two to 12 weeks, your circulation improves. • After three to nine months coughs, wheezing and breathing improves. • After one year your heart attack risk is half that of a smoker. • After 10 years your lung cancer risk is half that of a smoker. Quitting leads to better sex Stopping smoking improves the body’s blood-flow, so improves sensitivity. Men who stop smoking may get better erections. Women may find that their orgasms improve and they become aroused more easily. It’s also been found that non-smokers are three times more appealing to prospective partners than smokers (one of the advantages, perhaps, of smelling fresh). Stopping smoking improves fertility Non-smokers find it easier to get pregnant. Quitting smoking improves the lining of the womb and can make men’s sperm more potent. Becoming a non-smoker increases the possibility of conceiving through IVF and reduces the likelihood of having a miscarriage. Most importantly, it improves the chances of giving birth to a healthy baby. Stop smoking for younger looking skin Stopping smoking has been found to slow facial ageing and delay the appearance of wrinkles. The skin of a non-smoker gets more nutrients, including oxygen, and can reverse the sallow, lined complexion that smokers often have. Ex-smokers have whiter teeth Giving up tobacco stops teeth becoming stained, and you’ll have fresher breath. Ex-smokers are less likely than smokers to get gum disease and lose their teeth prematurely. Stopping smoking lets you breathe easier People breathe more easily and cough less when they give up smoking because their lung capacity improves by up to 10% within nine months. In your 20s and 30s, the effect of smoking on your lung capacity may not be noticeable until you go for a run, but lung capacity naturally diminishes with age. In
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later years, having maximum lung capacity can mean the difference between having an active, healthy old age and wheezing when going for a walk or climbing the stairs. Quit smoking to live longer Half of all long-term smokers die early from smokingrelated diseases, including heart disease, lung cancer and chronic bronchitis. Men who quit smoking by 30 add 10 years to their life. People who kick the habit at 60 add three years to their life. In other words, it’s never too late to benefit from stopping. Quitting not only adds years to your life, but it also greatly improves the chance of a disease-free, mobile, happier old age. Ditch the cigarettes and feel less stressed Scientific s t u d i e s show that p e o p l e ’s stress levels a r e lower after t h e y s t o p
smoking. Nicotine addiction m a k e s s m o k e r s stressed from the ‘withdrawal’ between cigarettes. The pleasant feeling of satisfying that craving is only temporary and is not a real cure for stress. Also, the improved levels of oxygen in the body means that ex-smokers can concentrate better and have increased mental wellbeing. Quitting smoking improves smell and taste Kicking the smoking habit gives your senses of smell and taste a boost. The body is recovering from being dulled by the hundreds of toxic chemicals found in cigarettes. Stop smoking for more energy Within two to 12 weeks of stopping smoking, your circulation improves. This makes all physical activity, including walking and running, much easier. Quitting also boosts your immune system, making it easier to fight off colds and flu. The increase in oxygen in the body makes ex-smokers less tired and less likely to have headaches. Smoke-free homes protect your loved ones By stopping smoking you’ll be protecting the health of your non-smoking friends and family. Passive smoking increases a non-smoker’s risk of lung cancer, heart disease and stroke. Secondhand smoke doubles the risk of children getting chest illnesses, including pneumonia, croup benefits consultancy (swollen airways in the Do you suffer from mobility problems, lungs) and bronchitis, breathlessness/pain or falls/stumbles? plus more ear infections, Do you need help washing / dressing or wheezing and asthma. supervision? They also have three You could be entitled to extra income by times the risk of getting claiming UK lung cancer in later life sickness / disabililty benefits while living in Spain compared with children For advice or to book a consultation who live with noncall 950 169 729 or 663 297 568 smokers. or visit www.ukbenefitsinspain.com
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Protect Your Deck This Winter
Before the chill in the air turns into harsh winter weather, clean and protect your deck to prepare it for the long winter months ahead. As the leaves start to change color, you may find yourself reminiscing about the hours of enjoyment spent outside on your deck. While warm-weather gatherings and summer barbecues are a favorite pastime of the season, the combination of foot traffic, food spills and weather can take its toll on any deck. Before the chill in the air turns into harsh winter weather, clean and protect your deck to prepare it Creations of Gardens and Re-style Garden Maintenance Construction of Pergolas
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Fencing Terraces Gazebos Many Pots and PlantsSoils - Compost - Abon’s
come in & see our spring offers
Tel: 680 374 230 Email: calidagarden@gmail.com www.jardinerialaalcayna.es
The Mosquito Screen & Window Co
Serving the Coast and Inland for over 10 Years
for the long winter months ahead. “Smart homeowners recognize that seasonal changes can wreak havoc on decks unless properly maintained,” says Fiona Seal, RustOleum Wood Care brand manager. “But with a few simple steps, you can winterize your deck so it survives the onslaught of ice, snow, sleet and moisture that can cause damage during the months ahead.” Here are deck-care tips that can keep it looking beautiful longer: Clean the Deck Thoroughly Ground-in dirt and barbecue stains can ruin your deck’s appearance and ultimately cause degrading of the wood. Exposure to sun can cause wood to turn gray and exposure to moisture can create the perfect conditions for the growth of mold, mildew, moss and algae. All these conditions make it important to clean your deck thoroughly to remove the remnants of summer and get it ready for winter. Use a bleach-free cleaner specifically formulated for wood to restore your deck to its natural beauty without yellowing. Cleaners like JOMAX Deck Wash loosen and lift dirt, and they remove gray, weathered wood and stains from mold and mildew to prepare the deck for a new protective coating. Just attach the applicator to an ordinary garden hose and spray. If your stained or painted deck has seen better days, consider stripping any faded or deteriorating finish prior to applying a water-repellent sealer or stain.
Apply a Protective Finish After cleaning, it’s important to apply a waterrepellent finish to protect your deck against the damaging effects of winter. Moisture such as ice, snow, sleet and rain can penetrate an unprotected surface, which can cause splitting, cracking and warping. Fortunately, there’s a wide variety of premium exterior wood finishes that offer protection against the elements while giving you the opportunity to achieve any desired look. For product information or more helpful woodcare tips, visit www.Rustoleum.com.
Manufacturers & Installers of Insect Screens, Aluminium & UPVC Windows & Doors Tel: 966 716 329 or Spanish Mob: 722 763 055 email: the.mosquito.screen.company@gmail.com
Find us at Moncayo Market on Saturdays & we are pleased to announce we are now at Lemon Tree Market on Sundays
Soft Furnishings & Re-Upholstery
Fabric Flair
• 39 years experience in soft furnishings & re-upholstery • Gazebo COVERS made in a waterproof canvas from customers own template • FOAM (All densities) superior quality cut to any shape & size • BESPOKE CURTAINS AND BLINDS all made to measure • All types of RE-UPHOLSTERY • EXQUISITELY MADE LOOSE COVERS tailor-made to fit as good as upholstered furniture indoor and out • Hundreds of fabrics to choose from
Opening Hours Mon-Fri 10am to 4:30pm Sat - 10am to 1:30pm All our work is professionally made in our premises in The Interior Centre 1 Calle Portugal Las maromas Pol. Ind Estate. Almoradi 03160 Contact Kim & Rick on: 625 716 063 Email: fabricflair.kb@gmail.com fabricflair.kb@gmail.com
Reforms Architectural Service & Plans Painting Construction & Maintenance Decorating Interior Design Legally registered family business Quality workmanship guaranteed Tiling, Flagging, Electrics, Plumbing, Aluminuim, Swimming pools, teddybearbuilders@yahoo.com Key-holding & Maintenance
680 851 376
616 214 713
SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
www.soltimes.com
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Q u i ck W i n d o w - Cl e a n i n g T i p s
Put away the ladder. Here’s your insider’s guide to the easiest way to wash winter away Biggest Challenges 1. Dirty sills and frames 2. Dusty, grimy screens 3.Spotty, smeared glass Fastest Fixes Give dirt the brush-off. We know — going at the glass with the cleaner is the most satisfying part. But before you squeeze that trigger, pull back the blinds or curtains, open the window, and inspect its sill, frame, and tracks for obvious crud and cobwebs. Sweep out debris using the smallhandled brush that comes with your dustpan. (Skip this step, and you risk a mess later, since the loose dirt can stick to your wiping towel and smear the glass.) Also handy: a cloth-wrapped screwdriver for flicking out dead bugs or hard-to-reach gunk. 1. De-grime the screens. If you leave yours in yearround, give them a once-over now — otherwise, all that dried-on dirt may blow into your house the first time you open the windows for ventilation. The good news: You don’t need to take down the screens and hose them off. Just run your vacuum with its dusting-brush attachment over the side that faces in. (Side to side, top to bottom is the speediest method.)
Make It Easier Next Time Pick a cloudy day. Direct sun makes the cleaner dry too quickly, leaving streaks behind. Choose your weapons wisely. GHRI tested a variety of products (six store-bought window cleaners, one homemade solution, three premoistened wipes, and four wiping tools: paper towel, newspaper, microfiber cloth, and squeegee).
Established 40 years in the UK
2. Make the glass gleam. For windows that tilt in, washing both sides is a cinch. Spray your cleaner on the inside of the glass until it’s heavily misted but not drippy. Then, with a clean lint-free cloth, wipe horizontally until dry. Tilt the window the other way; repeat on the outer panes, but this time wipe vertically (cleaning in opposite directions makes streaks obvious and easier to zap). For double-hung windows that don’t fold in, slide the bottom pane up about eight inches — so you can reach out and up. Clean what you can; then slide down the top panel to get it from above. Windows crank out or don’t open at all? Clean the insides, then rinse the outsides with a hose.
Britannia pool covers, heatpumps & safety fencing
Every year a small percentage of children that go on holiday drown in pools in spain. Not because of negligence or that they are unsupervised. The safety fencing that we offer will give you peace of mind against accidental drowning of children or even pets. The fence is a removable, transparent mesh that can be rolled up and put away once you are confident with your children around the pool. So give us a call for a free no obligation quote. Contact Ian at Britannia Pools for more prices & trade enquiries information - 966 765 378 : 664 367 512 welcome www.britanniapoolcovers.com www.poolsafetyfencing.es
Welcome GO SATELLITE!
g Getting British TV here in Spain can be a confusing and daunting task and findin about us GO SATELLITE was set up 10 years ago by husband and wife team Ian and Deborah. Ian has more than 20 years experience, having spent 10 years with SKY In Home Services in the UK, where he worked on the specialist heights team as well as SKY´S Prestigious VIP Team which caters for the “stars”, therefore the quality of his workmanship is extremely high! After leaving SKY, Ian set up his own business in the UK and ran this very successfully for 5 years before moving to Spain. SERVICES WE OFFER We are here to help!!!! We can arrange Installation of TV direct from the satellite with no monthly subscription. We are able to make repairs to existing satellite systems, potentially saving you from additional costs. We are
a reliable and informative company is vital.
suppliers of Sky and humax receivers direct from the UK. You will find we are the cheapest on the Costa Blanca. Ask us about Sky cards and subscriptions as well as Al Jazeera cards for bars enabling viewing of Premier League Football matches. WHERE ARE WE? GO SATELLITE is based in Ciudad Quesada and covers most of the Costa Blanca. WHY ARE WE DIFFERENT? Ian said “Being a small company has its advantages. We offer a personal service and get to know all our customers by name. It’s important to us that people fully understand and are happy with the service we are providing. We realise that the technology involved can be confusing but we are happy to spend time with our customers to ensure that they get the best system for their needs”. CUSTOMER SERVICE Any concerns or queries are dealt with in a clear and professional manner and clients can call Ian at any point if they have any queries. This ensures that all of their customers have complete peace of mind throughout the lifetime of the service. Added to that is the fact that GO SATELLITE is a fully legal, Spanish registered business that provides individual, company and community installations with a free no obligation site survey. Go Satellite is going from strength to strength! SATISFIED CUSTOMERS! Over the past 8 years the company has installed hundreds of satellite TV systems for individuals, companies and
3 49€
USUAL PRICE 399€
communities. The Go Satellite system uses highest quality Portuguese-manufactured dishes and requires NO monthly payments. Packages are available to suit everybody´s requirements and budget. GO SATELLITE offer expertise, reassurance and a proven track record, which can be backed up by many a satisfied customer. OTHER SERVICES Go Satellite not only provide television but are also able to provide internet and telephone services. Packages are available to suit all with a switch on/off service available for non residents. COME AND MEET US! We have an office in the Business Centre Calle Los Arcos No7 Ciudad Quesada, so you can now come and meet us and we will endeavour to help you with all of your TV queries. DISH ISSUES? Here at Go Satellite, we use only Top Quality Portugese dishes and Invacom LNB’s. Sky Packages are also available. If you do not have room or do not wish to have a dish, give us a call as we have a solution! At Go Satellite, we will endeavour, to provide TV for everyone. So, if you are fed up of missing your favourite programs or you have lost your TV signal and do not want to lose out any more, then call on 965 725 670 or call into our office to find out more about GO SATELLITE and its services. Alternatively check out the website:www.freetvspain.com
1.4 metre dish with HD receiver
one off payment
Come and visit us in our office based at: Calle Los Arcos No 7, Ciudad Quesada Open: Monday – Friday
Tel: 965 725 670 www.freetvspain.com all major credit & debit cards accepted
10
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
TV NEWSLETTER
FEBRUARY 2015
Writing this in Mid January – to meet the printed publication deadlines – I am sat in my office with a fan heater on and wearing a jumper and fleece ! This morning , whilst taking the dogs for a walk, the ground was “crunchy” with ice ! I have seen frosts on the ground / leaves in my 16 years living in this part of Spain but I think that is the first “severe” frost I have seen. The garden pond – which is quite deep – had slivers of ice just forming ! The cloud cover has kept the temperature above freezing but only just ! Talking of dogs – regular readers will know I have 3 rescues – I have just been fostering a young girl for 3 weeks rescued from the pound who had found a home but the new owners could not take her until mid January – she has been a delight. Have you considered fostering a dog ? It really helps them to have a home before a permanent placement is found and it will give you all the joys of dog ownership without the long term commitment and worry of what to do with them when you want a holiday – contact me for more information. TV NEWS ………… those of you with Manhattan RECORDING boxes may have seen my piece about the software upgrades available and written a few months ago when version 1.2.6 was issued – well there is a new issue to 1.4.0 – which ,in the words of Manhattan,“This update corrects an intermittent issue that can cause the volume to change unexpectedly when using the MUTE and live pause functions. It is suitable for both the Plaza HDR-S 320GB and 500GB models” All these updates are quite minor and will not affect the overall box performance but it is worth keeping your box up to date – full details/ instructions on the Manhattan website – or we will install it for you for a nominal fee of euro5.00 providing you wait until we are in your area. Nearly all digibox manufacturers issue software updates for their boxes and it is worth checking your manufacturer’s website now and again and performing the updates ……… I follow Manhattan because it is the brand of boxes we recommend and sell. Some boxes do upgrade the software from the satellite system or the internet (if connected) – all official SKY boxes and HUMAX boxes do this - BUT I have known even these “miss” an update and be outdated requiring manual procedures. All official SKY boxes and all official FREESAT boxes will update any
changes to the channel listings ……….. Any other boxes will require occasional channel reloading either by scanning the satellite signal availability list or from a preset list obtained from various sources on the internet. Performing a channel scan will pick up all the available channels but in general place them in an “odd” order in the channel listings whereas a list obtained from the internet is generally in a “logical” order. We keep channel lists for many boxes and can always perform a rescan for you if needed. Two fairly recent channels ITVENCORE and ITVBEE are available to but many boxes have not got them listed ………….. Some internet TV subscribers did have some issues with reception over the Christmas week and I believe that this is just down to the internet being “overloaded” – every family on SKYPE or WHATSAP and the systems could just not handle ……. It was not a huge issue and soon settled back to be OK but we all must accept the Spanish internet system is not 100% 1st world ……. It is getting better almost weekly but it does get overloaded especially when you are out in the country trying to feed into the “mains” to “get out” of Spain. No matter what supplier you use it will have to at some point feed into the “national grid” to get around the world …………… Finally a word to all potential new comers to our beautiful Murcia region …………. The spring house selling / buying season approaches and if you are going to buy just check with a reputable TV installer that UK TV is available at the property you have set your heart on before you finally sign ……….. The HUGE dishes needed now or the excellent internet connection to get UK TV is not always possible and although many say “I am not coming to Spain for TV” many do find after a period it is an “essential” and just may not be possible. Its worth asking before buying ………… Article sponsored by Rainbow Satellites ........ The company for all your TV needs in the Murcia region of Southern Spain. Contact Alan by email – rainbowsats@gmail.com or phone (0034) 686358475 for good honest free advice.
Google Translate adds instant voice & sign translation Brazilian Otavio Good puts his smartphone on the table, presses a button and says a few words in his native Portuguese. Russian speaker Barak Turovsky, who is sitting across from him, waits a few seconds, and then hears a voice repeat the same words in his own tongue, to which he responds; his reply is in turn translated in the same robotic tones into Portuguese.
Meanwhile, the oral translator uses machine learning, a technique from the field of artificial intelligence that imitates the way humans acquire knowledge. The more the app is used, the better its answers. The more data gets collected, the more likely it is to be right. Turovsky estimates the voice translator’s success rate at around 80 percent. “We know there are
The colleagues, who normally use English to communicate, work for Google Translate on a language recognition project, and wanted to personally demonstrate their tool’s capabilities. The technology is similar to what Skype unveiled a month ago, but the translating takes place in the same room; it doesn’t work in video conferences but in the real world, with two people present. It is not a new application, neither is it a service. In theory, it is simply an update of Google Translate, but could prove very useful in a variety of situations. The innovation will soon be available for Android as well as Apple devices, but it is not the only one. Otavio Good joined Google in May of last year after the company bought his application Word Lens. The app allows you to point your phone at a sign in an unfamiliar language and have it instantly translated. It is ideal for reading plaques on monuments or restaurant menus, for example, and could also help you understand the front page of foreign newspapers, although it has problems with large chunks of text. The system combines Optical Character Recognition, scanning and augmented reality technologies. It converts the image into a text, translates it and then superimposes it on the original, instantly.
errors, but a bad translation is better than none at all,” he says. The system is not perfect, needless to say. Idiomatic expressions are particularly challenging, along with accents and other linguistic variations. Having said that, the two innovations provide considerable freedom for tourists or professionals on the move. “Having a conversation with a taxi driver or getting directions to go somewhere suddenly becomes very straightforward,” says Good. Google Translate carries no advertising and makes no money for the company, yet is used by around half a billion people each month. Around 95 percent of them are outside the United States, with Mexico and Brazil among the biggest users. For now, the voice translation service works in 36 languages. The sign translation is for now only available in English to Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Russian, and vice versa. English is always either the original or the target language: so a sign written in Italian cannot be translated into French, for example. Good and Turovsky say Google has no plans to start charging for the new services, and that it serves more than one billion translations a day. http://elpais.com/
SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
www.soltimes.com
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opening hours : MON-THURS 9am-8pm FRIDAY 9am-5pm SATURDAY 9am-6pm
January sale on all 2014 stock Audi A4 TDi Estate (2010) €18995 €17,995
Ford Galaxy 7 Seater TDCi Trend (2009) - €15995 €14,995
Audi A3 1.9 TDi Sportsback Auto/Tip (2010) - €14995 €14,495
VW Golf TDi Bluemotion Tech (2011) - €14995 €14,495
Honda Civic CDTi GT (2011) €14995 €13,496
Peugeot 308 1.6 HDi Active (2012) - €13995 €12,995
Opel Astra Diesel (New Shape) (2012) - €13495 €12,695
VW Golf 2.0 TDi Highline Estate (2009) - €12995 €12,295
Opel Meriva 1.7 CDTi Diesel (2012) - €12995 €11,995
Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 6Speed (2010) - €12995 €11,995
Kia Rio Concept 1.2 (2014) €12995 €11,995
Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi 5 door (New shape) (2011) - €11995 €10,995
Nissan Note DCi Acenta (2011) - €10995 €10,695
Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge Panoramic Roof (2013) - €10995 €10,495
Peugeot 207 HDi Active (2012) - €10995 €10,495
Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge Panoramic Roof (2013) - €10995 €10,495
Mini cooper S (170) Auto/Tip (2005) - €10995 €9,995
Fiat Panda Plus 1.2 Petrol (2013) - €10495 €9,995
Peugeot 308 HDi Special Edition (2010) - €10995 €9,995
Ford Fiesta TDCi (2011) - €10495 €9,695
Citroen C3 1.4i LX 5dr (2011) - €9995 €9,295
Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCi Trend (2010) - €9995 €9,295
Skoda Fabia Combi (2012) - €9495 €8,495
Fiat Punto Grande (2008) - €7995 €6,397
Citroen Picasso Xsara 1.6 HDi 5 door (2004) - €6495 €5,995
Peugeot 1007 HDi Slide Door (2005) - €6495 €5,995
Smart 2 Passion Auto (2007) - €5995 €5,495
Ford Mondeo Estate (RHD UK Plates) (2006) - €4,995
Opel Meriva 1.7 TDCi (2004) - €5995 €4,995
Hyundai Atos (2005) - €4995 €4,495
New 2015 Stock arriving this week
Year 2005 - Chevrolet Kalos 1.4 LS............................3,495€ Year 2009 - Bmw Diesel Auto Cabriolet...................25,995€ Year 2006 - Toyota Corolla UK RHD..........................3,995€
Year 2011 - Citroen C4 Grand Picasso 7 seater.....15,995€
Year 2005 - Ford Cmax Tdci Diesel............................6,995€ Year 2009 - Skoda Octavia 1.9 Tdi Diesel..................9,995€ Year 2008 - Ford Fiesta Tdci Diesel............................6,995€ Year 2008 - Ford Focus Tdci Diesel Titanium...........9,995€ Year 2006 - Jeep Cherokee Diesel Automatic..........9,995€ Year 2012 - Peugeot 308 1.6Hdi Active....................13,995€ Year 2003 - Ford Focus 1.6 Automatic......................3,995€
Year 2001 - Renault Clio 1.2 5dr..................................2,995€
www.autosdirect.es • 966 723 718 San Miguel de Salinas
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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
e h t 4 e n o girls Professional Wig Specialist & Tricologist Specialists for medical illness and hair loss problems
We offer different hair replacements, top fillers, hair prostheses, toupees, & wigs.
The salon also incorporates a Hair & Beauty Salon Call Margaretha on 966 921 846 or visit our website www.salonmargaretha.com We speak English, Swedish & Spanish call into our salon in Lomos Playa III, La Mata, Torrevieja
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
No More Sick Days Don’t let colds and flu spoil your season. Stop sniffles before they start by strengthening your immunity. Click through to discover the newest germfighting tips straight from the experts The doctor says... Take a deep breath People who have high stress levels are more likely to get sick because stress hormones can weaken the immune system. But new research shows that meditation or exercise (or both!) can counter stress and strengthen immunity, lowering your odds of catching a cold or the flu. A recently published eight-week study found that people who practiced meditation for 45 minutes a day had a 33% to 60% reduction in respiratory infections, and another group who exercised 45 minutes a day had similar success in staying healthy. If you can’t find that much time, aim for a 30-minute walk five days a week, and try to set aside at least 5 to 10 minutes daily to do something calming—even if it’s just closing your eyes and slowly breathing in and out for a slow count to five. The germ expert says... Skip the hand sanitizers Most viruses are spread through hand-to-hand contact, or touching germy items, and the golden rule is to physically remove germs by sudsing up with soap and water for 20 to 30 seconds. This breaks up and washes away the oils on your skin that carry bacteria and viruses. Hand sanitizer doesn’t remove germs as effectively as soap and water and also doesn’t kill many of the illness-causing viruses, so use it only in a pinch. Because you can also catch a cold from touching germ havens in your home (doorknobs, remote controls), wipe them down with a cleaning spray once or twice a week—every day if someone in your house is sick. Be sure to use a product labeled disinfectant, which means it kills almost all germs on contact. Another tip: Thirty percent of kitchen sponges tested positive for the flu virus, so disinfect yours daily. The nutrition researcher says... Eat yogurt Research has shown that probiotics, the “good” bacteria found in yogurt, can help boost the activity of immune system cells in your body that destroy viruses and bacteria. People who supplemented with probiotics reduced the length and severity of their colds, taking half as many sick days. Include probiotics in your diet by eating a cup of yogurt per day. Just make sure the package says contains live, active cultures so you get the full health benefits.
www.soltimes.com
e h t 4 e on girls
SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
13
Beautiful You Clinic Fully Qualified Aesthetic Practitioner
Urb. La Marina Line Filler Dermapen Micro Needling Semi -Permanent Make Up Laser Skin Rejuvenation Red Vein, Skin Tag, Wart, Mole removal. Cosmetic Surgery Consultations Fractional co2 lazer Est. in Spain over 10 years & much more....
Call Lynne on 965419906 or email beautifulyouclinic@hotmail.co.uk Dr Hans C. Madsen DC (over 21 years experience with lasers) Member of the Danish, Spanish & European Association
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SHOCKWAVE THERAPY FOR ARTHRITIC JOINTS www.chiropractor-benijofar.es info@chiropractor-benijofar.es C/Federico Garcia Lorca, No.90 –L8, 03178, Benijofar (Opposite the Citroen Garage)
966 185 242 693 371 616/617
If you have trouble fitting fitness into your schedule, great news: Researchers found that shorter bouts of exercise—even as brief as 2 minutes—totaling 30 minutes per day may have as much impact as a half-hour of nonstop movement in helping to lower your risk of heart disease. In other words, a little bit of activity here and there can really add up. This 10-minute routine will get results and can easily fit into your most hectic days. 1 MIN: Walk at a moderate pace. (Talking should be a bit tough but not impossible.) 1 MIN: Walk at a brisk pace. (Talking should be difficult.) 2 MIN: Walk at an easy pace. (Carrying on a conversation should be easy.) 1 MIN: Walk at a brisk pace. 2 MIN: Walk at an easy pace. 1 MIN: Walk at a brisk pace. 2 MIN: Walk at an easy pace. If this routine starts to feel less challenging, add 15 seconds to the brisk bursts while shaving 15 seconds off the easy intervals. To easily increase the intensity of your walk, try to take slightly shorter steps. (Longer strides can slow you down.)
Monday & Wednesday 10am - 1.30pm 3pm - 6pm Tuesday & Thursday 3pm - 6pm Friday 10am - 1.30pm
633 161 555
We specialise in supporting people with the following issues: • Anxiety and/or depression • Problems with alcohol • Families living with addicts talkingtherapiesinspain@hotmail.com • Feeling isolated and alone • Mental health issues • Personality disorders in general, (behaviour issues) • Bi-polar disorder • Schizophrenia • Bereavement
supporting you all year round
633 161 555
talkingtherapiesinspain@hotmail.com www.talkingtherapies.es
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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
WANTED
Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer Bytes. Some 18 months ago I wrote an article concerning the advantages of IPTV (Internet Protocol T.V. - TV over the internet) over a satellite dish half the size of Yorkshire! Due to changing events I a number of these articles have had to be written, highlighting the pros and cons of this system. Today, I would like to look at options that were not available to you, the paying individual, at the time. First a reprise, if you will, of IPTV. IPTV was seen as the only solution to the BBC’s (Bribes, Buyoff’s and Corruption) not wanting anything being ‘allowed’ out of England by changing and reducing the satellite’s ‘footprint’ (the area in which we can receive the signal) to a point were almost no-one was able to receive it. As with all increase in traffic, larger roads had to be built and by this I mean the bandwidth (the speed of information) had to be increased. This temporarily cured the problem until more people bought into the IPTV scheme and then more bandwidth was needed and provided. Even with all this bandwidth people still had problems with ‘buffering’, that annoying state of waiting while more information comes down to you. Another article on this problem using the analogue of waterwheels, water tanks and water pressure was written to help you understand the problem. For my sins, I watch ‘Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special” without any buffering and in a quality that was very near what I expect from satellite. Despite many teathing problems, it still is a firm favourite with many, including myself. Now for the ‘New Boy on the Block’, Satellite TV! While I was wandering around Llano Market just before Christmas, I saw
two satellite dishes, a thumping big and a normal size (1.2m) dish. The bloke also had two T.V’s, each connect to a separate box and dish. The first was to show that with a big dish you can get great UK TV (something that everyone that has a really big dish will tell you) and the second through a normal dish facing at 90 degrees to the first, also showing great UK TV at the same quality. This peaked my curiosity and I had to ask all about it. The answer was simple. By redirecting the dish to a different satellite and having the appropriate decoder(Sat box – which is a must have) you can get great UK TV again. This is where this intriguing new system comes into it’s own. For a single payment (the amount depends on the service you want which includes the satellite dish and all cabling) you can have satellite TV back – no monthly subscription or extra payments. So why is this so helpful to you? In previous articles, I have told you that internet TV is and should be free, unless someone uses a VPN provider that will allow good, clean unbuffered TV, at which point payment of some sort will be due. I also pointed out that watching UK TV, outside of the UK, was illegal (according to the BBC) whether free or paid for! As, like so many of you good people, I really don’t think that the BBC should have that much control, I will continue to watch it and do so for free. Soapbox packed away, See you at Jack’s Bar in Albox for my Friday afternoon computer clinic!
For further information or advice on computing,contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk
Il Duce - part I
65 years ago a huge swathe of Europe was under the control of three dictators; Hitler, Franco and IL Duce; otherwise known as Benito Mussolini! Mussolini came to power in Italy in1922; a full decade before Hitler became Chancellor of Germany and 18 years before Franco. Mussolini started life as a socialist then changed his views to fascism when socialists across Europe did not support World War One. Mussolini believed the war would bring a sense of national unity to Italy. Having fled Italy in 1904 to escape National Service he returned to serve in the war and his exemplary service saw him rise to the rank of Corporal. He was invalided home in 1917 when a grenade exploded in the trench he was in; leaving 40 metal shards in his body. MI5 then kindly paid him the huge sum of £100 a week; presumably for intelligence work and the money helped Mussolini set himself up in politics. He declared in 1918 that ‘a man ruthless and energetic to re-
Adam Murphy and Andrew White, are wanted for conspiracy to cause explosions at cash machines and burglary of bank and shop premises between January 2013 and December 2013. Adam Murphy, 29, is described as being white of a medium build with short brown hair and blue eyes. His last known address is Waresley Crescent in Liverpool. Detectives believe Murphy may be in Scotland. Andrew White, 25, is described as being white of a medium build with fair hair and blue eyes. His last known address is Nyland Road in Huyton. White has links to Spain. As part of the same investigation seven men were sentenced to more than 114 years last year. In December 2014 Jonathon Webb and Daniel Morgan were sentenced to a total of 32 years in prison after being found guilty of offences following a three week trial at Liverpool Crown Court. In September 2014 five other men, Thomas Whittingham, Anthony Bushell, Craig Cartwright, Kurt Beddoes and Ian Ellis, were sentenced to a total of 82 years after being convicted at Liverpool Crown Court trial for the same series of thefts/attempt thefts. All seven men were part of
a group responsible for ATM attacks at 28 premises in Wirral, Lancashire, C h e s h i r e , S o u t h p o r t , Liverpool, Prescot, Loughborough, G louc e s t e r, Birmingham, Northampton and Derby. These attacks resulted in losses to the businesses targeted by the thieves, of approximately £800,000, not to mention damage to the properties estimated to be in excess of £480,000. Detective Chief Inspector Gayle Rooney, from the Matrix Serious Organised Crime Team, said: “The Force is once again asking the public for their help in catching two of Merseyside’s most wanted criminals. “Adam Murphy and Andrew White are wanted by the force in connection with an on-going investigation into thefts from cash point machines across the North West and Central England. “The techniques used in these thefts were extremely dangerous and we are fortunate that no-one was hurt.” “I have no doubt that the community will embrace this opportunity to assist the police in bringing these people to justice and I would urge anyone with information to get in touch.” Anyone with information contact Merseyside Police on 0800 230 0600 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Enjoy Stephens musings? Pop over to http://findmeahomeinspain.wordpress.com as vive the Italian nation’ the articles are posted on there too...and they’re a bit longer too! Findmeahome are was needed modestly always looking for quality homes for their sales and rental portfolios, please contact meaning himself. Stephen for a valuation: stephen@findmeahome.es Telephone: 636 266 641 Mussolini believed in ‘Spazio vitale’ reasonDumini an income for fifteen years strong army; ing that Italy needed to regain huge both mustard after the murder. parts of Europe to have enough Mussolini started shifting all pow- gas and phosspace for economic growth. In 1920 er to himself; declaring himself as gene were used he declared that the Slavic people Head of the Government in 1925. so victory was quick. In 1936 Muswere barbaric and inferior so killing Parliament had no say in his deci- solini sent warplanes to Spain to half a million Slavs was an acceptsions and then he abolished par- help Franco in the Civil War; then able sacrifice if 50,000 Italians could liamentary elections all together. A in 1938 Albania was invaded, Hitler live there instead. In 1922 the King police state was being set up and was impressed and Germany and of Italy fearing a communist revoluItaly signed the ‘Pact of Steel!’ Hitler tion invited Mussolini to form a new even local mayors were appointed assured Mussolini that he wouldn’t by Rome. In 1926 all rival political government. Becoming the youngstart any war until 1942 to allow parties were banned after an assasest ever Italian prime Minister; Musthe Italian army and navy to presination attempt on Mussolini by a solini promptly invaded Corfu. pare. Hitler lied, possibly to ensure 15 year old boy. There were at least In 1924 the deputy leader of sohis partner in crime was the weaker three other attempts on his life, one cialist party was assassinated after one! of which was by an Irish woman trying to get the election results On Hitler’s insistence; in 1938 a rawho shot off part of his nose. Newsannulled due to voting irregularicial law called the ‘Manifesto of Race’ paper editors were personally choties which included violence and was passed. Jews were banned intimidation by the fascists. The sen by Mussolini and teachers had from working in the Civil service or to swear an oath to protect the fasassassin was a man called Dumini armed forces and intermarrying was cist regime. who reported to Mussolini. Dumini’s outlawed. The law was objected to In 1935 as part of Mussolini’s plan car had been seen being used to by most Italians and the Pope, yet for a New Roman Empire Italy inget rid of the body and he got just still thousands of Jews were sent to vaded Ethiopia. Horrific war crimes two years in prison. Mussolini paid were committed by a 400,000 Auschwitz!
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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
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Podemos hails Syriza victory in Greece
BELIEVE IN LIBERTY SEGUROS Believe in the market leader is the main message that Liberty Seguros, the expats number 1 choice of insurance company, wants to convey to its ever-growing international customer base across Spain. The campaign, geared to re-affirm its position as the favourite choice when it comes to insurance, is focused heavily in areas including the Costa Blanca, Costa Calida, Costa Almería, Costa del Sol, the Canaries and the Balearics. Principality, it will target Britons, Germans, Scandinavians and Dutch for both permanent and temporary residents. Liberty emphasizes its: ‘better care, better service and better insurance’ attributes, as well as simplicity and convenience, in dealing with a company that works with over 200 brokers with face to face personal assistance at all stages of the insurance process. As IvánOrtego, Expatriate’s Commercial Manager of Liberty Seguros explains, “many expats are disenchanted at having to listen to recorded messages from a machine and much prefer to discuss their insurance needs with a friendly face in one of our broker offices and to receive advice from an expert in their field. Additionally, our products which include car, home, marine, pet, commercial and personal liability, are specifically suited and written for expatriates in their language in an easy to understand format making the process less daunting”
Spain’s anti-austerity party hailed on Sunday its Greek radical left-wing ally Syriza which appeared on course for a stunning election victory. “Hope is coming, fear is fleeing. Syriza, Podemos, we will win,” said Podemos party leader Pablo Iglesias shortly before exit polls were issued in Greece showing Syriza leading Sunday’s vote. “In Greece tonight, we are already hearing that. We are hoping we will hear the same thing in Spain soon,” he told a gathering of about 8,000 party faithful in the eastern city of Valencia. “We are going to be smiling tonight.” “Syriza’ victory reveals the inefficiency of austerity policies,” he told Spain’s La Sexta television channel, also on Sunday. According to exit polls, Syriza took between 35.5 percent and 39.5 percent of the vote, ahead of the conservative New Democracy party of incumbent Prime Minister Antonis Samaras. On Monday morning, with almost all votes counted, the party looked set to win 149 seats, just short of the 151 required to vote without coalition partners. Spain’s conservative Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy earlier Sunday warned austerity-weary voters against the temptation to back Podemos in elections due this year. He said that hard-won economic recovery must not be lost by a voter “leap in the dark”. “We can not bet our future and that of our children in a frivolous game of Russian roulette,” Rajoy told a congress of his Popular Party in Madrid. The head of Spain’s socialist PSOE, Pedro Sánchez congratulated Syriza on its victory via Twitter, offering his support to the people of Greece. Like Syriza, Podemos has found considerable popular support by rejecting austerity programmes adopted to try to lift the countries out of deep economic crisis. The party, formed in early 2014, stormed to prominence when it picked up five seats in the May 2014 European elections. It has since gone on to top polls of Spanish voter intentions, threatening Spain’s two-party system. Read more on: thelocal.es
King pays respects to late Saudi monarch
To contract insurance from Liberty Seguros, there are many ways to get in touch. One can telephone 902 255 258 for an instant quote and the name of your nearest broker or visit www.libertyexpatriates.es. Alternatively, if you know where your nearest broker is, just pop along and talk to someone in their nice warm office; you never know, you might even get a cup of tea! For more information:
King Felipe travelled to Saudi Arabia at the weekend to pay tribute to the country’s late king, Abdullah, who died on Friday. The Spanish king also met with Saudi Arabia’s new monarch, Abdullah’s brother, Salman. King Abdullah, who was 90-years-old, died on Friday. He had ruled Saudi Arabia since 2005. King Felipe was accompanied on the trip by Spanish Defence Minister, Pedro Morenés, who also attended the Saturday meeting with King Salman, which lasted “a few minutes” according to Spanish royal family sources quoted in Spanish daily 20 minutes. The Spanish monarch also met with the heads of state of Jordan, Egypt, Ukraine, Holland, Sweden and France, who were also in Riyadh to pay their respects to the late king. King Felipe was met in Riyadh by the Spanish ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Joaquín Pérez Villanueva and the Governor of Riyadh, Turki bin Abdullah alSaud. A US delegation, led by President Barack Obama will arrive in the country on Tuesday to pay their respects. Read more on: thelocal.es
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House Prices Rose by 1.3% at the end of 2014
According to the latest Real Estate Trends report produced by the ST Sociedad de Tasación, the average value of homes in Spain (new and used) increased by 1.3% in the fourth quarter of 2014, bringing the price per square metre to 1,326 euros. The recent data indicates that prices have now bottomed out, although the new build prices are still likely to fall further, and that the tendency is towards stabilisation, and thus no sharp increases are predicted. The managing director of the company, Juan Fernández-Aceytuno, said that there is still a greater demand for second hand properties compared with that for new homes. This is the second consecutive house price increase after that registered in the third quarter of 2014,
SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
Europe Also Gives End to Spanish House Price Declines
Spanish house prices registered an increase of 0.3% in the third quarter of last year (five tenths less than in the previous quarter) when compared to the same period in 2013, according to the data provided by the European Union Statistical Office, Eurostat. Moreover, Eurostat reported that prices in the eurozone registered a rise of 0.5% in the third quarter of 2014, after remaining stable in the previous quarter. Quarter-on-quarter, prices rose by 0.6% in the third quarter, following a nine-tenths increase in the second quarter. In the whole of the European Union (EU), the price of housing increased by 2.3% in the third quarter, year-on-year, while quarter-on-quarter, prices recorded a rise of 1.1% between July and September, compared with a rise of 1.4% in the second quarter of 2014.El Mundo reported that, among the countries with data available, the largest declines in housing prices yearon-year were registered for Slovenia (-5.4%), Italy (-3.8%) and Romania (2.3%), while the largest increases were recorded in Ireland (+15%), Estonia (+13.2%), Latvia and the United Kingdom (both +11.7%), Sweden (+10.3%) and Lithuania (+10.1%). Quarter-on-quarter the greatest declines corresponded to Slovenia (1.1%), and Romania and Malta (both -0.9%), while the largest increases were recorded in Ireland (+6.2%), Latvia (+4.9%) and Croatia (+4.7%).
of 4.1%, ending the run of price declines which have been ongoing since 2007. Before the second half of 2014 the last rise in house prices registered was in the third quarter of 2007, when they rose by 2.4%, increasing the cost per square metre from 2,344.84 euros to the record high of 2,401 euros per square metre. Since those maximum values, prices have accumulated a decline of 44.8%. Fernández-Aceytuno noted that 2014 may have been the “turning point” in the real estate sector, and that, looking forward to 2015, the supply of new housing will continue to be significant, despite the current low rate of production, with demand beginning to grow at the same rate as employment and the flow of financing. He also stressed that the weak symptoms of recovery in the housing market
which emerged a year ago, are now much firmer, and highlighted three areas of opportunity in real estate as being the rental market, restoration and energy efficiency, and tourism. The Sociedad de Tasación’s data shows that 12 regions registered declines in prices in the fourth quarter of 2014, while they increased in four and remained stable in Murcia. The regions to register price increases between October and December 2014 were the Balearic Islands (+3%), Navarra (+1.6%), Madrid (+1.3%) and Valencia (+0.3%). The greatest declines were recorded in the Basque Country (-7.9%), La Rioja (-6.9%) and Cantabria (6.8%). Also included in the report is the Index of Real Estate Effort, which defines the number of years
Your Belgian estate agent at the coast ! API-P0104 65000€ PALOMARES 2 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms Terrace & 62 sqm roof terrace Fully furnished Sea views Underground parking space Comunal pool
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API-V0107 99950€ VERA PLAYA 2 beds, toilet & bathroom Front & back terrace (26 sqm) &roof terrace of 20 sqm Airconditioning Fully furnished Complex with only 44 properties 400 m to the beach
API-V0165 199000€ VERA PLAYA 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms Front terrace with garden (188 m2) roof terrace with sea views Fully furnished 5 outdoor pools 100 m to the beach First line beach complex
API-V0144 79000€ VERA PLAYA First floor wit 8 sqm terrace 2 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms Sea views 700 m to the beach Partly furnished Outdoor pool Elevator, comunal roof terrace
API-V0156 195000€ VERA PLAYA Chalet of 168 sqm on a plot of 500 sqm 2 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms Large basement Sea views parking space
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RONDA DE LAS BUGANVILLAS nº 42 (next to Luces & Bar Cactus) ANN 666 260 792
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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
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COMPLETE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY CARE CARE Spanish Rental Property Prices COMPLETE Increased by 2.6% in 2014
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Ref: GV/EB Perfectly located, furn, 1 bed 1st floor apart, a/c, pool, UKTV, parking, 50 metres from beach MOJACAR
reduced €268,950 reduced €69,950 Paseo del Mediterraneo 19, Mojacar Playa, Almeria (near the Hotel Best Indalo)
Tel: 950 478 612 / 610 808 631
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Rental housing prices in Spain appear to have stabilised in 2014, according to property portal idealista.com, ending the year with an increase of 2.6%, which placed the price per square metre at 7 euros per month, and during the last quarter of the year, rental prices registered an increase of just 0.2%. A total of seven regions registered price rises in the past 12 months, with the greatest increase being recorded in Catalonia, where renting a home is now 9.8% more expensive than a year ago. Also registering significant increases were Extremadura (+3.9%) and the Balearic Islands (+2.4%), while in contrast, the greatest reductions in rental prices were recorded in Murcia (-4.4%), Galicia (2.9%) and La Rioja (-2.9%). Madrid remains the most expensive region, with a price per square metre per month of 10.2 euros, followed by the Basque Country (10 euros/m2), Catalonia (9.2 euros/m2) and the Balearic Islands (8.1 euros/m2). The most affordable regions in which to rent a home are Extremadura (4.2 euros/m2), Castilla-La Mancha (4.4 euros/m2) and Murcia (4.7 euros/m2). With regard to the Spanish provinces, up to 19 provinces registered rental price increases during 2014. The greatest increase was recorded in Barcelona, where prices rose by 11%, followed by those registered in Jaén (+7.7%) and Cáceres (+6.7%). The greatest decline, in contrast, was recorded in Alicante (10.3%), followed by Ourense (-9%) and
Cádiz (-6.9%). Guipúzcoa remains the most expensive province with a price per square metre per month of 10.4 euros, followed by Barcelona (10.3 euros/m2), Vizcaya and Madrid (both with 10.2 euros/m2). Ávila is the cheapest province for rental housing at 3.8 euros per square metre per month, followed by Teruel (3.9 euros/ m2) and Ourense (4.1 euros/m2). Jaén is the provincial capital where home rental prices registered the biggest increase during 2014, of 10.4%, while in Barcelona prices rose by 7.4%, and in San Sebastián they registered an increase of 7.3%. Contrarily, home rental prices in Cádiz fell most over the last year, registering a decline of 12.9%, while in Teruel prices fell by 9.5% and in Ourense they dropped by 8.5%. Barcelona remains the most expensive Spanish capital (12.5 euro/m2/month), followed by San Sebastián (11.8 euros/ m2) and Madrid (11.4 euros/m2), while the most economic capitals are Ourense and Lugo, both with a price per square metre per month of 4.1 euros. Since the peak rental prices registered before the bursting of the housing bubble, five capitals have seen their prices fall by more than 30%. Zaragoza is the capital to register the greatest decline, with prices dropping by 44.8%, followed by Castellón (-38.8%), Valencia (-35.9%), Guadalajara (-33.8%) and Albacete (31.7%). In contrast, the decline in prices registered in both Madrid and Barcelona since their maximum level, stands at 17.3%
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FOLLOWING AN AMAZING SALES YEAR IN 2014, PROPERTY URGENTLY REQUIRED With large stands at both the London and Birmingham A Place In The Sun exhibitions in the UK, a 400% budget increase in online marketing and with ever more northern European agents deciding to send their buyers to us, there has never been a better time to SELL your property via Coast and Country Spain. With buyers now waiting to invest in properties from the Mar Menor area to the Orihuela Costa, both coastal and inland, contact us now for free, no-nonsense marketing advice. Don´t miss out and become one of our happy vendors in 2015.
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Tel: 966 347 966
The owner has upgraded the home to the highest standard with a new kitchen, stunning bathroom etc. There are 2 bedrooms, an office and a conservatory. Rent paid until June 2015. must be viewed FULLY EQUIPPED ON SECURE SITE WITH BOWLING GREEN, BAR / RESTAURANT / SHOP / SWIMMING POOL
SUNDAY CARVERY 1-4 PM EXCELLENT ENTERTAINMENT
ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON! VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY phone shirley - 679 970 399
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International Interest in Spanish Property Returning The Spanish economy has been rough in recent years to say the least, and though there are strong signs of a possible recovery things are still far from smooth. Nonetheless, international buyers are once again taking an interest in Spanish properties, with transactions seeing a 20% increase in volume yearon-year. Property price performance across the country’s various regions is decidedly mixed, but certain areas are nonetheless doing well. It is perhaps no surprise that the main cities of Spain and the popular coastal regions are displaying the most positive signs, and it looks like the coming year may see the market in these areas improve quite significantly. The impact of the financial crisis in 2008 has been the main factor dragging down the Spanish property market in recent years. The economic downturn hit the Spanish economy hard, and with
property prices falling many investors began fleeing the market and turning their attention elsewhere. This caused a significant drop in demand, which just happened to coincide with the appearance of a number of new developments on the market after years of planning. The market had already been struggling for some time with high inventory, but until that point strong overseas demand had helped to keep things steady. When this situation arose, oversupply and low demand became a huge problem, and the result was a crash in the market which lasted some years. Looking at the Spanish property market as a whole, rather than just the areas that are attracting renewed interest from international buyers, prices have shown a 1% increase since last year. Compared to the year before, they have increased by 2%. This is far from impressive in it-
self, but the amount of time the market spent in freefall makes it somewhat positive that prices are now rising again at all. Furthermore, when combined with the impressive growth in the number of transactions, the picture looks comparatively positive after the way the market has struggled in recent years. Resale transactions have increased by an impressive 44% compared to this time last year. Sales of new properties, by contrast, have fallen by 19%. While this would usually be taken as a more-than-slightly negative sign, in the case of the Spanish property market in its current state this is more likely to be a simple case of new inventory being run down. Mortgages have also been on
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the increase, with an impressive 29.8% leap in September. With one of the lowest mortgage rates in the world, a favourable lending climate has also been another notable factor in recapturing the interest of foreign investors. Furthermore, the government has also introduced a number of provisions to help attract expatriate property buyers, and this has also helped bolster property prices. However, one factor to bear in mind is the current situation in Greece. With public opinion turning against the Euro and the EU, there are uncertainties surrounding the stability of Europe’s shared currency in the long term. Depending on how the situation progresses, this could potentially create fresh problems for Spain. www.propertysecrets.net
Our new office will be opening in February, in the centre of Albox. Your Belgian estate agent for inland, specializing in the area of Arboleas, Albox and surrounding towns and villages. We have been trading sucessfully in the Arboleas and surrounding area for the past 6 years. I have gone from strength to stength and am now able to expand our company, I am therefore ready to open new premises in Albox.
We would like as many new legal properties as possible, to display in this window and to take to our next exhibition in Belgium. So if you are looking to sell, please contact us as soon as possible
Office: Carlos: Gavin:
Come and meet us and meet our new sale person Gavin We are also looking to expand into the area of Huercal-Overa for the new up and coming Belgian market!
950 090 875 www.immo-carlos.com 648 505 938 671 293 942 email: info@immo-carlos.com
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property group
Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria
Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563
www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk You can find us on Mojácar Playa
€79,950
3 bed / 2 bath Apartment with nice sea views in Marina de la Torre. Front covered terrace. Fully furnished. Ref. 1559
Mojácar Playa
€115,000
Beautiful sea facing 2 bed / 2 bath Apartment with private parking. Terraces of 25 m² & 6 m². Fully furnished. Ref.1595
Mojácar Playa
€129,000
2 bed / 2 bath south facing Apartment with sea views within 300 m to promenade. Terraces: 26 m². Com. pool. Ref.1615
Mojácar playa
€155,000
Valle del Este
€85,000
Immaculate 2 bed/ 2bath fully furn townhouse, front private garden, patio & roof terrace. Parking place. Communal pool. Ref.1555
Nr Antas
€90,000
3 bed / 1 bath traditional House with garage & store room on plot of 121 m² in Jauro. Sold with another plot of 437 m². Ref.1082
DUE TO INCREASE IN DEMAND WE URGENTLY NEED PROPERTIES IN MOJÁCAR, GARRUCHA, VERA AND TURRE. CALL US NOW ON 950 472 430 O 610 053 563
FREE VALUATION Mojácar playa
€170,000
Mojácar playa
€199,950
2 bed / 2 bath Apartment, large terrace, store room & under parking. Nice community with lift, pool & gardens nr promenade. Ref. 1556
3 bed / 2 bath nice semi detached House with private plot of 230 m² on gated community with pool near beach. Sea views. Ref. 1618
3 bed / 3 bath semi detached Villa with sea views on small community with pool near amenities. Terraces & solarium. Ref.1137
vera
Mojácar playa
Mojácar Playa
€240,000
Opportunity! 3 bed / 2 bath Villa +1 bed / 1 bath Annex. Plot of 5.851 m². Few minutes to town. Landscaped gardens & olive grove. Ref.1200
€275,000
3 bed / 2 bath newly renovated Villa with pool . Plot of 246 m² within 1 min to beach. Air con. Roof terrace with sea views. Ref.1610
Mojácar playa
€112,000
3 bed / 1 bath Apartment with private parking, store room & large terrace with partial sea views near promenade. Ref.1609
Vera playa
€115,000
Ready to move into. Fully furnished 2 bed / 1 bath Apartment with sea views. Terrace & private parking. Communal pool. Ref.1597
Mojácar playa
€139,000
2 bed / 2 bath south facing Apartment with large terrace & beautiful sea views within 300 m from promenade. Lockup garage. Ref.1612
Mojácar Playa
€225,000
3 bed / 2 bath Villa on plot of 500 m² within 200 meters to beach & amenities. Terraces &car port. Ref.1560
€289,000
3 bed / 3 bath spacious detached Villa with sea views, garage, pool and independent guest annex on plot of 492 m² . Ref.1205
Please visit our office or refer to our website for more “bargains”. Vendors: If you are seriously considering selling your property please visit our office to discuss effective ways of achieving your goal. As per decree 218/2005 the “Documento de Información Abreviada” (D.I.A) for any property sold by Veritas Homes is available at our office.
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Property Sales and Relocation Specialists
Properties required both coastal and inland. We do not charge any commission up front!
Our promise is to negotiate a low and fair commission to be paid ONLY when the job is actually done. If you have a legal property for sale that you would like to list with us or would like a free no obligation valuation please contact us on the details below for more informaion. Please call and speak to Simon or Tim to see how we can get your property sold.
FEATURED PROP - REF MOJ3VSA01
Price â‚Ź419,000
A simply stunning detached villa on Mojacar Playa centrally located and just a 4-5 minute walk to the beach front and all amenities. The walk to the beach front is flat with no steep hills to negotiate. The villa is a generous 187m2 on a plot of 585m2. Villas of this genuine quality and location are a rare find.
The home offers: 3 – 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms are en-suite with 2 additional W/C s Separate dining room Fly free enclosed terrace Full air-con Heated 9m private pool
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Storage casitas Fitted wardrobes Pellet burner Video entry system Electric gates Sat TV with all UK channels Electric sun awnings
This high quality home offers so much. A viewing is highly recommended. For further information or an appointment to view please contact us on the details below. For more information, property viewings or no obligation valuations please call 950 469 592 mobile 697 640 681 email info@colespain.com or go to www.colespain.com
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The ten biggest mistakes a home-seller can make
Property sellers are always motivated by different reasons, whether they have moved jobs, need more space for their growing family or just want a change of scene. Nevertheless, selling your home will be a challenging task in terms of choosing a real estate agent, pricing and negotiation. The property you are selling could be of high value, in good condition, and in a nice neighbourhood. Yet, if sellers make some simple mistakes, the property could end up remaining on the market for a couple of months without selling. To help ensure your sale runs smoothly, global real estate website Lamudi has put together a list of mistakes a homeseller should avoid in order to get a good price. 1. Not showing your property in its best light You do not have to renovate your property and invest a large amount of money. But there are a few steps you can take in order to make your property appear more valuable. The first impression, in terms of the exterior, is the most important. Clean the windows, paint the front door and make sure the grass is not a mess. 2. Rushing into the market Do not rush into the market as soon as you have decided to sell your home. Price fluctuations and availability can have a huge impact. Try to gather as much information as possible and to forecast trends for your local area. 3. Hiring the wrong agent Choosing an agent is one of the most important steps when selling your property. Do not let ties to family or friends get in the way. Where money is involved, you should always keep the relationship professional. Also don’t just hire the first agent who comes in mind. Try to gather information about the agent’s network and expertise before hiring him or her. 4. Setting the value to high The emotional value of a property often differs from the actual value. Potential buyers do not know about the ups and downs you have experienced with your property. Try to be objective when it comes to the pricing. It is good, though, to fill the property with emotions. Try to describe to the agent why this property was special to you and he may be able to use this information during sale. 5. Withholding information (such as hidden
defects) The house has been sold. The new owner enters and finds the roof leaking because of termites. If the buyer finds out that you knew about it and did not mention any hidden defects during the sale process, he can withdraw from the purchase agreement. 6. Not staying in contact with your agent Relying on your agent and not being involved with the selling process can be a mistake. Insist on regular reports about how your property is doing on the market and what your competitors’ prices are like. You are not the agent’s only customer and therefore want to make sure he or she keeps you top of mind. 7. Being impatient It takes some time to sell a house. Do not expect to sell your home after a couple of weeks. Importantly, when the property does not sell quickly, remember there is no need to adjust the price too early. Stay in contact with your agent and discuss the next steps. On average, a house sells after three to six months. Exceptions prove the rule. 8. Not being willing to negotiate Have in mind that properties normally never sell at the price you have set. Do not take a lower offer to heart and keep insisting on your initial pricing. At some point you will have to negotiate. Be mindful that buyers often try to find
Looking to sell? We can sell your property for you. Properties needed in all areas
defects with your property in order to have an advantage in the negotiation. 9. Not investigating the potential buyer You receive a fair offer and the buyer even seems nice, but do not get ahead of yourself. You can get excited once you have letters of pre-qualification or loan approval from the would-be buyer. These documents should state that the buyer is capable to purchase and that his credit history has been checked. It is not uncommon for buyers to fool property owners because the seller did not do any digging beforehand. 10. Making last-minute mistakes Once you have agreed on the price and the general conditions, you have to draw up a contract. This is the most important step of the whole process. Unfortunately, people are likely to make last-minute mistakes during this crucial step. Take your time and carefully proofread the final contract before you sign. This will stop you from having any trouble or facing any extra expenses once the property is sold. Source www.propertysecrets.net
API Bancario Bank Property Agent
Tel + 34 637 309 092 - www.indalocasas.es info@indalocasas.es Palomares
Mojacar
€169,500
A 90m², 3 bed, end duplex with a large garden, situated just 300 meters from the beach in Mojácar. Downstairs there is a large open plan lounge-dinner with A/C, a fitted kitchen, and a toilet with shower. Upstairs it has 3 bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, a bathroom and 2 terraces. There is a front porch, and an enclosed rear patio leading out to an open rear patio. There is approx. 300 m² of private fenced garden. There is the possibility of a large basement. The urbanization has well-kept gardens with tennis courts and two pools. The property has private parking.
€59,000
Albox
€36,500
A large, 173 m² village house, for restoration, situated in a small hamlet, 5 minutes from town. The property has an entrance hall, a large lounge, a kitchen with an open fireplace, 1 bedroom, a bathroom and sitting room with open fireplace downstairs. Upstairs there is 1 very large room and 2 smaller rooms. There is a large enclosed rear patio and a small side garden. Mains electricity and water are easily re-connected.
Fabulous 65 m², ground floor, 2-bed apartment situated just 800 metres from the beach. The apartments have 2 double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, 2 bathrooms (one being en-suite), a lounge-dining room, an open style kitchen and a large front terrace with nice sea views, an inner courtyard, A/C preinstalled, a private underground parking place and a large storage room included in the price. This very nice, gated community only has 14 apartments and has nice communal pool. It is located just 800 metres from the beach and close to the village centre.
Arboleas
€155,000
A 90 m², 3 bed detached chalet set on a 880 m² plot with a pool situated just a few minutes from the village and 25 min from the coast and various golf courses. The property has a lovely arched front porch, an entrance hall, a large lounge-diner with a gas “Living Flame” fireplace, a fully fitted kitchen with white goods, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, (the master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom). The property has A/C in the lounge and 2 bedrooms. The plot is completely fenced and gated and there is an 8 x 4 “Roman Head” swimming pool, a decent sized store room and the gardens are well established with trees and bushes.
Tel + 34 637 309 092 - www.indalocasas.es - info@indalocasas.es
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Spain is one of the cheapest places
Spain is one of the cheapest places to live in Western Europe and is 35 percent cheaper than New York according to new figures. A new cost of living index produced by Numbeo reveals life in Spain is a third cheaper than in the Big Apple. The index determined the difference in living costs between countries taking into account the prices of groceries, transportation, restaurants and utilities. According to Numbeo, Spain has a rent index of 21.53 which means renting in the country come in at a fifth of the price of New York and puts Spanish rents roughly on par with those in China and Trinidad and Tobago. SEE ALSO: The cost of expat food in Spain Spain’s cheap rents have even prompted some Londoners to consider commuting to the UK capital from Spain. Spain’s overall Restaurant Price Index is 71.09, making it 30 percent cheaper to eat out in Spain than in New York. It costs around the same amount to eat out in Mozambique and Russia as it does in Spain. The Consumer Price Index in Spain (65.70) is on par with Zimbabwe (65.89) and Slovenia (65.15). Obviously there are significant regional differences within Spain. In Madrid, for example, rents are 70 percent cheaper than in New York while local purchasing power is at 76.27. Compare this to Barcelona, where rents are almost 75 percent cheaper than in New York. While Barcelona does have cheaper rents than Madrid, local purchasing power is very similar, at 76.14. If you are after a good deal in Spain, it might be best to head to the south of the country: rents in Malaga are 82 percent cheaper than in New York while local purchasing power is actually higher than that of Barcelona, at 76.25, in other words, your euro will stretch much further in the south of Spain. Renting a one bedroom apartment in the centre of Malaga will set you back around €440 a month, whereas for the same kind of flat in Madrid, you would be looking at spending around €730. Switzerland tops the list of the most expensive countries. It is 26 percent more expensive than New York and is the most expensive place to buy groceries in the world. The top three is rounded off by two oil-rich nations: Norway, in second place and Venezuela in third. Down at the bottom of the list, India comes in as the cheapest country in the world with a consumer price index of 26.27, followed by Nepal with 28.85 and Pakistan with 30.71
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Home Sweet Home
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Unemployment Rate Stood at 23.7% at End of 2014
FOR BUSINESS
The number of unemployed people in Spain fell by 477,900 people in 2014 to a total of 5,457,700, and the unemployment rate stood at 23.7% of the active population at the close of the year, which is two points lower than at the end of 2013 (25.73%), and one point below the Government forecasts (24.7%). According to the Active Population Survey for the fourth quarter of last year, published by the National Statistics Institute, in the last twelve months employment grew by 433,900 people, representing a rise of 2.53%, its first increase since 2007, when 522,500 jobs were created in Spain. Thus, 2014 closed with the total number of people employed standing at 17,569,100, the
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highest figure since the third quarter of 2012. The reduction in unemployment in 2014 is the second consecutive year of decreases following six years of increases. In 2013, unemployment fell by 85,400 people, 5.5 times less than last year’s figure. El Economista reported that the number of households with all its members unemployed fell by 159,600 in 2014, which is 8.3% less than in 2013, to stand at 1,766,300. Quarter-on-quarter, the number of households with all its members unemployed decreased by 23,100 in the last quarter of 2014, representing a 1.3% decline over the third quarter of the year. The number of unemployed under 25 year olds fell by 93,400 people in 2014, which is 10.3% less than in 2013, putting the total number of young people unemployed at 907,100 at the end of last year and the youth unemployment rate at 51.80%, three points less than the previous year (54.88%), and almost six tenths less than the third quarter of 2013, when it stood at 52.38%. In quarterly terms, the number of young people unemployed decreased by 53,900 in the last quarter of 2014, representing a drop of 6.2% compared with the previous quarter. Of the 5.45 million unemployed in Spain at the end of 2014, 14.9% are young people under 25 years of age and more than half, 50.4%, are long term unemployed, another of the groups which has suffered most in the crisis. However, the number of long term unemployed (more than one year unemployed) fell by 211,800 people in 2014, down 7.1% from the 2013 figure, to stand at 2.75 million people, although in the last quarter of 2014, the number of long term unemployed increased by 7,500 (+0.3%). The greatest reductions in unemployment in the fourth quarter over the previous quarter were registered in the regions of Valencia (44,700 less people), Andalucía (23,300) and the Canary Islands (20,100), while the steepest increases were those registered in Catalonia (30,500 more), Madrid (28,800) and the Basque Country (19,000). Year-on-year, unemployment fell in all regions except in the Basque Country, where it increased by 7,000 people. The largest declines were recorded in Valencia (98,900 less unemployed), Catalonia (83,000) and Madrid (73,200). The regions which registered the lowest unemployment rates in Spain at the end of last year were Navarra (14.92%), the Basque Country (16.6%) and La Rioja (17.17%), while the highest were recorded in Andalucía (34.23%) and the Canary Islands (31.08%).
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Once upon a time!
Once upon a time in a land far, far away lived a boy called Jack, which as we all know is short for ‘Loco Paco’. He lived with his widowed Mother who, to make ends meet was forced to weld boilerplates in their front parlour. Their only asset was a three toed Brazilian Treehopper. With the downward turn in shipbuilding and the reduced need for boilerplates Paco and his Mum began feeling the pinch. Well, his Mum certainly was but that’s another story. She decided the time had come to take Cuthbert, their Brazilian Treehopper to market. Paco was given strict instructions to go straight to market, talk to no one and get a good price for their digitally challenged Treehopper. It was with heavy heart that Paco adjusted Cuthbert’s bridle and led him down the dusty road out of Alqueria. The sun was shining and Paco picked wild flowers as Cuthbert galloped and gambolled along the roadside. On the dusty road Paco met a large wolf, who realising he was in the wrong fairy tale disappeared in search of a morsel of granny or a trio of tasty porkers. Again on the dusty road. This time Paco met José Boilpopo an itinerant carbuncle lancer from Mijas. José had an eye for a bargain. Seeing Paco was an imbecile he exchanged a handful of magic Remitroot beans for the precious three toed Brazilian Treehopper. Loco Paco was delighted, but then Loco Paco was delighted with the Liberal Democratic Party and dehydrated meals. To say Paco’s Mother was impressed with her son’s business acumen wouldn’t be quite true. She made several references to father being like son, which was slightly unfair as his father was only one possible on a shortlist of five. The beans where duly thrown through the nearest window.
Paco was packed off to bed and his Mother began a meaningful relationship with a large bottle of domestic gin. The morning dawned bright and fresh. Paco, yawning and scratching stared in disbelief at a huge Remitroot stalk reaching into the clouds and beyond. Paco, being inquisitive and an idiot promptly began climbing the stalk. Higher and higher he went, through the clouds and above until he was aware of a large figure descending. It was Bone Muncher Sanchez the feared giant of the stratosphere. Paco nimbly reversed his course and was soon back on the ground. Grabbing a conveniently placed axe he swiftly chopped down the Remitroot stalk. Down came the stalk and down came the giant. Stalk and giant lay broken, shattered upon the ground among the rubble and desolation that was once the whitewashed village of Alqueria. Paco’s Mum stared down at the boy, the light of battle still shining bright in his eyes, the axe gleaming in his hand. “Sometimes Paco you really p*** me off”. Said she.
Silent Walking Could Change Your Life Where does it all come from? Who generates the acres of pap which constantly scrolls across our computer screens? Who in heavens name has the time to read any of it? Don’t we have better things to do? If anyone were to try to consume only a small part of it, then I’m sure their lives would be cut very short by PGBD syndrome – for the uninitiated, that’s Pap Generated Brain Dead syndrome. In a two minute scan this morning I learnt about - How to wash socks in the microwave, Important first times in female relationships, Sarah Fergusons view on Kate and Wills marriage, ‘they’re totally in love,’ The
The Wrong Day
worst and best dressed celebrities this week, How a German soccer star dumped his girlfriend and that the UK could soon have its first gay school. And not forgetting, Silent walking could change your life, whatever that means. Oh - My – God. (With apologies to my esteemed colleague Duncan Burr, lay reader for the Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and columnist on this newspaper, for taking the Lords name in vain.) But I’m sure on this occasion he will forgive me and in an un-guarded moment, might even agree with my feelings. I say a two minute scan, that’s not
It had to be an Early start Day, but we emerged gently from our slumbers with no feeling of mad rush and panic. However, that began to change as soon as we entered the living room to enjoy the first and most essential coffee of the day – the Dog That Is Not Ours had overnight been sick on the carpet! I set to with brush and bowl, thinking to myself ‘that’s not a good start!’I was right, it was not a good start. My next discovery was ‘we’ve no water,’ made just as Pete was halfway washed.I hurried round to the pump, which should kick in automatically if the mains water fails. It was silent! I pushed its magic red button, and it was still silent. Why? I wondered. Either it’s broken, or the deposito is empty – it can’t possibly be empty, 3,000 litres can’t have disappeared without our noticing - better have a look. I galloped round to get the ladder, propped it up against the deposito, climbed up, and realised that I was too feeble to move the block on top of its lid in order to check its water level. Desperate situations call for desperate actions - There was only one thing I could do. ‘Andy’ I hollered, and sure enough our own personal emergency service appeared from next door, cheerfully climbed the ladder, moved the block, peered inside and declared our deposito full. So the pump must be broken,
true; it was no more than twenty seconds. A two minute scan would have filled this page. Love it or hate it, for many of us the internet is part of our lives now. As a journalist and broadcaster it became an integral part of my professional life twenty years ago – it transformed the way we did things and in general, made our working lives easier. The gathering of news and the reporting of it became more instant: something which happened on the other side of the world at ten thirty, could be on the eleven o’clock news and so on. The counter argument is that because of the internet, our lives have speeded up to such an extent, we no longer have time to do the things we once could. The increase in supermarket ready meals as an example – people no longer have the time to cook. So if they don’t have the time to
By Jos Biggs
josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk then. I launched into a voluble lament on the subject of having no water to wash in, and worse no water to flush the loo, and the impossibility of getting the pump fixed in time for us not to be late. ‘What’s the matter with the pump?’ queried Andy. ‘Have you pushed the button?’ ‘Yes!’ I countered, and pushed it again, just out of spite. ‘Have you kicked it?’ ‘No, I don’t want to break it.’ ‘Well, if it’s broken already a good kick can’t do any harm, can it?’ With those words he gave it a good kick. The pump commenced purring, the water commenced flowing, and I ceased swearing, thanked Andy, and shot inside to get washed and ready before Fate could think of any more obstacles to put in my way. It was not until late that night that I remembered that I had forgotten to send my weekly story in to Sol Times! Sorry, Lee, it was just a Wrong Day!
cook, how can they possibly have the time to read the nonsense that appears all over the thousands of gossip and celebrity pages on the web? Well perhaps they’ve given up other things in order to take in the worthless – in my view – inanity of celebrity culture, which seems so relevant to a whole new generation. Look on anyone’s work terminal and you will see not just one open page, but dozens – the one they’re supposed to be working on, along with the ever present gossip and celebrity ‘news’ which they seem to crave. Now where was I? Ah yes . . . Justin Bieber for Calvin Klein, Essential books you should have pretended to read, The World’s first Crisp cafe sells out in two hours. On second thoughts, maybe not. Paul Martin
26
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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
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wordsearch
Sporting Firsts Quiz
Find and circle all of the world currencies that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a secret message. A John Paul Getty quotation
1. Which famous writer had a cameo role in the first Bridget Jones movie?...................... 2. Who was the Father of Zeus?.................... 3. In which year did Yuri Gagarin first leave the earth?.................................................... 4. “Silver Hair, Ragged Shirt, Baggy Pants” name the song............................................ 5. In which films would you find the following characters: a: Dr. john Hammond, b: Dr. Emmett Brown, c: Dr. Evil, d: Dr. Zira, e: Dr. John MacEntyre................................... 6. The following words are from which song?“I want to shoot the whole day down” ................................................................... 7. Which word, of Greek and Roman origin, means “Foreigner”, “Wild” and “Unwashed”?..............................................
Brain Teasers Answers
CRYPTIC crossword
of the Apes, e. M.A.S.H. 6: “I don’t like Mondays” - Boomtown Rats 7. Barbarian 8. Israel and North Korea 9. Yaga / Jaga / Baba jaga - all three acceptable answers 10. Antananarivo
CROSSWORD
1. Salmon Rushdie - He was seen a few years ago at a party dancing to the Bee Gees “Staying Alive” 2. Cronus 3. 1961 (April) 4. Mr. Bojangles 5. Five Answers: a: Jurassic Park, b: Back to the Future, c: Austin Powers, d: Planet
SOLUTIONS
GOURDE GUAR ANI G U I L D ER HRY VNIA KINA K OR U N A K RO N A K RO N E K ROO N KUNA K WAC H A K WA N Z A K YAT LE M P I R A LEO N E LILANGENI LIR A L I TA S LO T I
wordsearch answer
M A N AT METICAL NAIRA N A K FA N E W CE D I NEW DONG NEW KIP N E W S H E K EL N G U LT R U M O U G U I YA PATA C A P ESO POUND PULA QUETZAL RAND RE A L RIAL RINGGIT
standard SUDOKU
10. What is the capital of Madagascar?.........
easy SUDOKU
9. Who were the man-eating witches in Russian folklore?.........................................
AFGHANI A R I AY R Y BAHT BALBOA B I RR B OL I VA R B OL I V I A N O COLO N DAL ASI DENAR DINAR DIRHAM D OLL A R DRAM ESC U D O E U RO F OR I N T FR ANC G OL D COR D O B A
R I YA L R U B LE R U F I YA A R U P EE RUPIAH S H I LL I N G SO M S U CRE SYLI TA K A TA L A TENGE T OL A R VAT U WON YEN Y U A N RE N M I N B I Z LO T Y
IF YOU CAN COUNT YOUR MONEY, YOU DON’T HAVE A BILLION DOLLARS
8. Which two countries of the world have the largest amount of soldiers in proportion to their population?.....................................
1. What was Geraldine Rees the first to do in 1982?................................ 2. Who was Britain’s first million pound footballer?........................ 3. Who is the only Olympian to have won gold medals in four different summer Olympic Games?............................. 4. Brad Friedel of the USA was the first goalkeeper in the 2002 world cup to do what?................................ 5. Who, in 1980, was the first overseas player to win the World Snooker Championship?................. 6. Where, in 1896, did the first Modern Olympic Games take place?............ 7. Which country were the first ever winners of football’s World Cup?........ 8. Which famous race between two teams, was first staged in 1829?.......... 9. How old was Lester Piggott when he won his first Epsom Derby on Never Say Die?............................ 10. What was the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to host the Olympic Games?................
Answers
squiggle SUDOKU
World Currencies
1. First woman to complete 6. Athens a Grand National 7. Uruguay 8. University Boat Race 9. 18 10. Melbourne
soltimes quiz
SolPUZZLES
2. Trevor Francis 3. Steve Redgrave 4. Save a penalty 5. Cliff Thorburn
on this day January 28
1547 – Henry VIII dies. His nine-year-old son, Edward VI becomes King, and the first Protestant ruler of England. 1624 – Sir Thomas Warner founds the first British colony in the Caribbean, on the island of Saint Kitts. 1958 – The Lego company patents the design of its Lego bricks, still compatible with bricks produced today. 1986 – Space Shuttle Challenger explodes killing all seven astronauts on board.
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Across 2. Dock (5) 4. Company emblem (4) 5. Lure (4) 8. Watercourse (5) 9. Cephalopod (7) 11. Jest (4) 12. Flightless bird (7) 14. Farm building (4) 17. Oubliette (7) 18. Incorrect (5) 19. Part of an egg (4) 20. Decapod (4) 22. Sturdy (5)
Down 1. Aquatic bird (4) 2. Bet (5) 3. Frenetic (7) 4. Molten rock (4) 6. Hints (4) 7. Downpour (7) 8. Speedy (5) 10. Vernacular (5) 13. Concealment (7) 15. Jealousy (4) 16. Bird crest (4) 18. Concern (5) 21. Peak of a hill (4)
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Book online or call us direct, either way one of our operators is waiting to take your call or www.coachtripsonline.com or (0034) 966 785 910
SUDOKU PUZZLE s
Sudoku is a placement puzzle. Enter the numbers 1 to 9 in each row and column of a grid, made up of 3 x 3 subgrids. The catch is that each row, column and grid must contain only one instance of each number or letter.
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
standard
easy
squiggle
ACROSS 1 Raged wildly at student’s top marks (6) 4 Mother’s in room with new astronaut (8) 9 You French left - number’s up for plant (5) 10 I’m graduate with weapon, showing lack of stability (9) 11 Impel University to return example of Romeo (4) 12 Big creature I follow still (4) 13 Common for University to be taken in by American gangster? (5) 15 Joint broadcasts before Blimp, say (7) 16 A fellow in church and small restaurant (4) 19 At one time in lemon centre (4) 20 Gets the hang of degree (7) 23 Solver reportedly wise to follow custom (5) 24 Remain at rest (4) 25 Daughter left equipment to go back (4) 27 Ely’s Abbot disturbed one working with horses (6-3) 28 To be part of hex is terrifying! (5) 29 Held back wait in colour (8) 30 Go to serve (6)
Down 1 “Ultra” gut could make you throaty (8) 2 Symbolic narrative is completely bloody, including egghead (8) 3 Partly moves python’s spot (4) 5 Ban Olympic cup making this sort of business (6,7) 6 Will not run quickly after shade (10) 7 Bold human - fully? Only in part (6) 8 Require the French irritation (6) 10 In exile, without iron, taking bottle opener that cannot be described (13) 14 Brown bread rises under probability (10) 17 Certain new feed in it (8) 18 Is nothing dead? Dead when apart (8) 21 S.U. Bar collapses - with last hammer from treasurer (6) 22 Pester donkey after injury (almost) (6) 26 Starts to desperately evade bank, taking what one owes (4)
28
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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015
In many Spanish cities you find a central market in the city centre. In Spain there are many well known markets. Examples such as Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid, Las Atarazanas in Malaga or the Boqueria in Barcelona. All are inside beautiful old buildings and worth tracking down on visits to these cities. In Granada the streets around the Cathedral and Alcaiceria were the home of the main city market. Granada´s market has been traditionally on the streets rather than inside a main building. Stalls around the Plaza Romanilla and Plaza de la Pescaderia would have been the market place for the citizens of Granada. The name of the Plaza de la Romanilla named after the type of weight which would have been used to weigh the goods. Nowadays the central market is el Mercado de San Agustin, Granada. (just up from Calle San Jeronimo or just down from Gran Vía). This site used to be a convent the Convento de San Agustín, up to the 19th century when it became a public space. And then in the 1970´s it became a Spanish Food market. So what can you buy inside this market? Lots of delicious Spanish food. There are butchers, fishmongers, fruit and vegetables and several specialist stalls. Homemade meals ready to go for those who don´t cook, olives of all sizes and colours. There are gourmet style stalls with Olive oil, wine and cheese too. Many of them even have samples on offer so that you can try before you buy. One of the stalls that caught my eye as I wandered inside was Puesto 28. This had lots of mushrooms and other items of local Granada produce. The presentation was eyecatching, it had an earty forest feel to it. Lots of different varities of olives, mushrooms and oils too. The owner of the stall was very friendly
and took time to explain the different products and their provenance. There was also some olives and olive oil to try on a stand at the edge of the stall. One of the olive varieties he had on sale was a sweeter tasting black variety. It´s one of his best selling products. Of course the fish stalls in any spanish market always get my attention. The fresh catch is brought to Granada from Motril, on the Costa Tropical. This coastline is just a 40 minute drive from the market, so transfer time from the Lonja to the market stall is short. Some of these fish stalls even have their own Facebook pages, here they are: Stall 43 and Stall 46 Around the mercado de San Agustin there are lots of small shops and in the narrow streets below. Comestibles San Agustin is a traditional grocers store. They stock local products such as oranges from Lecrin valley and preserves such as Asparugus grown in Huetor Tajar. Next to the market entrance I noticed a herbolario or herbal shop . They have a good selection in their window. There is even a hardware store, Ferretería in Spanish, to pick up items for minor home repairs. Mercado de San Agustin, Granada If you have been to the market recently you will notice changes happening inside. The San Agustin market in early 2015 will have a new gourmet area. Located in the centre of the market to showcase local products. They will promote produce from Granada and also run food events such as tastings and demonstrations. Outside in the market square there will be an outdoor terrace area. This will be a good chance to sample produce from the market with a cold local beer. I really can´t wait to see this up and running. http://www.piccavey.com/
image: stevesrecipes.files.wordpress.com
d o o f h s i n a Sp t e k r ma
Spanish Fruit and Vegetables Ham, cheese and sausages are not the only typical products from Spain! There’s also an assortment of fruits and veggies that are mainly produced and consumed in Spain and are characteristic of Spanish cuisine. However popular pork is, vegetable food sources are also a very important part of the Spanish diet and vegetables are specially used in Spanish tapas. Trufa Negra Black truffle hunting is a hard and not always successful activity; truffles are hard to get. This factor contributes to their price, which soars over 500€ for a kilo. Its recollection must take place in winter, normally from December to February and trained dogs -some times hogs- must be used to find them, as they grow underground. However wild black truffles are en ever growing luxury; several factors such as draughts, depredation of the areas they grow in and excess picking have made them even more scarce. That’s why in Spain “tuber melanosporums” are not only collected but also cultivated (this is known as trufficulture). One of the biggest trufficulture farms in the world can be found in Navaleno (Castilla y Leon). The north of Spain has the perfect conditions for truffles as they grow in altitudes, cold climates and specially in certain types of woods such as holm oaks, oaks, hazels and linden trees. If you want to try this delicious delicacy we recommend you to go to Barcelona, where truffles are most abundantly found!. Pimientos del padrón: These small peppers are natural from La Coruña in Galicia. Their size range from 2 to 4 inches, with intense green color that can vary from a dark olive like green to yellowy green. The special feature of this peppers is that while most are not spicy, between 20% and 10% of them are which gives way to many puns and jokes such as “unos picas y otros no” (if you want to find out what this means go to Spanish language resources!). However through modern agrobiologic selection some farmers are trying to eliminate the spicy peppers altogether. Pimientos del piquillo’s Pimientos del piquillo’s average size is around inches. Like most of its family, this red pepper originates from Latin america. When returning from his first trip to America, Christopher Columbus brought to Europe this new vegetable. The peppers were cultivated in Spain and developed into new varieties. Pimientos del Piquillo is mostly produced in the Spanish town of Lodosa (Navarra). http://www.spanish-food.org/
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FABADA
29
worldwide winter warmers
ASTURIANA
rde e V o d Ca l
Ingredients
1 cup dry haricot (nav y)beans 1 slice raw ham 4 oz salt pork or fat bacon, one chunk 6 cloves garlic, chopped 1 onion, quartered 1 bay leaf 3 chorizo sausages 1 small rump roast or several small pork ribs (optional) pinch of saffron threads 1 Tbsp Spanish sweet paprika salt to taste
BREDIE
Method
This Asturian Bean and Sausage Casserole recipes makes 6 servings. Pour beans into a large pot or bowl and cover with cold water. Soak the beans, ham and bacon overnight. The next day, drain water from beans. Place beans in a large pot of cold water with the garlic, onion and bay leaf. Place on stove and turn on high. When the water comes to a boil, add all the other ingredients. Cover the pot half-way and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, cooking until the beans are tender. After approximately 1.5 hours, add the saffron threads and paprika. Taste the fabada and add salt if necessary. Because sausage and bacon are salty, you may not need to add any salt. Cut the sausage, bacon and roast into serving-size pieces. Serve in soup bowls with bread. foodnetwork.com
Ingredients
1/4 cup olive oil, in all 1 cup chopped onion 2 teaspoons chopped garlic 2 cups Idaho potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 2 quarts water 6 ounces chorizo sausage, thinly sliced Salt and black pepper 1 pound kale, washed, trimmed of the thick stems and thinly sliced
Method
Method
In a medium soup pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil, add onions and garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn glassy, don’t let them get brown. Add potatoes and water. Cover and boil gently over medium heat for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a skillet cook sausage until most of the fat is rendered out. Drain and reserve. When the potatoes are tender mash them with a potato masher right in the pot. Add sausage to the soup, and then add the kale. Simmer for 5 minutes. Add the remaining olive oil and season. Ladle into bowls and serve. foodnetwork.com
er medium-high heav y-bottomed pot ov Heat the oil in a large, d brown well. or lamb in batches an flame. Add the mutton set aside. Remove to a plate and ed seasonings Add the onion and desir til the onions to the pot and saute un just beginning to are cooked down and Ingredients . brown, about 5 minutes 1 1/2 pounds Stewing at and pour in me o ed int t wn cu bro b, the lam Add back mutton or ng to a boil, then cubes the water or wine. Bri , cover tightly, and 3 tablespoons Oil reduce heat to very low d pe hours. 1 Onion, chop simmer for about 1 1/2 e (se s tables, potatoes, Seasoning Stir in the desired vege te tas to -ns) tio se heat to medium varia salt and pepper. Increa ite wh or ter Wa p cu 1/2 and return to a boil. wine again, cover and e The reduce heat to low 1 pound Vegetables (se to 45 minutes. simmer for another 30 variations) serve with rice or Adjust seasoning and 3 Potatoes, cubed slices of heart y bread. Salt and pepper -- to taste foodnetwork.com
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SOLTIMES january 2015
animal corner
Seagull ‘comes back to life’ in cricket match A seagull knocked out by a cricket ball made a miraculous recovery during a match in Melbourne. The bird was left motionless after being inadvertently struck by a pull shot from batsman Adam Voges in the Big Bash Twenty20 clash between the Melbourne Stars and Perth Scorchers. Stars fielder Rob Quiney appeared to signal that the stricken seagull was dead as he carried it delicately over the boundary line. But minutes later, the feathered friend thrilled the 30,000+ crowd by returning to its feet and even swooped back into the danger zone towards Quiney as he attempted to field a ball. The bird’s brave comeback resulted its own #seagull hashtag on Twitter. Sarah Gordon, MCG Media and Publicity Adviser, said: “The bird was taken outside into Yarra Park at the change of innings and released into the park when it was clear that the bird’s health was okay.”
r cats fo nd ou gr ay pl to in e m ho s rn tu Man
A Californian builder has spent the last 20 years turning his home into an adventure playground for his cats.
Peter Cohen, of Goleta, who currently has 15 rescue cats, has spent about $40,000 (£26,500) creating the kitty paradise. He’s spent the money on building a colourful and intricate network of perches, tunnels, ramps and
walkways. “Way more expensive than a sane person would build, but I didn’t care,” he said. “I love my cats, my house and art, so I designed it to be beautiful to me.” Mr Cohen says it brings him a lot of satisfaction knowing that he’s providing a safe and happy environment for his rescue animals. “Giving rescued cats a better life
APAH Space for a little one?
image: mashable.com & cricket.com.au
Lovely Benji is a medium sized, unique looking boy, who is very friendly and loves making friends with everyone he meets. Can you make this New Year his best ever by giving him a loving home? To visit Benji at the APAH kennels, please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850.
means giving them a place that is solely their own,” he told Catster. “They give us unconditional love, and building the catwalks is one way of expressing my gratitude for that.” A video of his work has notched up close to half a million views on YouTube. It was first posted online last month but went viral this week Read more on: www. http://web. orange.co.uk/
All they need is a loving home !
can you help?
Benji
L o v e l y , affectionate Rogan is one of over 80 beautiful cats and kittens being cared for in APAH’s Cattery. Can you make this year the best one ever for one of them by giving it a loving home? To visit Rogan, please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850
Rogan
Mountain View
Cat hotel Hondon de las Nieves/Frailes
Centrally-heated houses with large individual runs Love and care will be lavished during your cat’s stay My 29 years of experience in animal and veterinary care will give you piece of mind
Pick up & delivery service offered for coastal areas
Telephone: 966 195 816
Answerphone - we will call back: Mobile 654 155 473
www.mountainviewcathotel.webs.com
EMILY 2
www.apahrescue.org
We have 6 Pointer puppies (5 boys and 1 girl) who all look very much like these 2, they are now around 8 weeks old and will be medium to large when fully grown. Call: 645 469 253
pets in spain Call: 645 469 253 www.petsinspain.com info@petsinspain.info
SOLTIMES january 2015
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COMMUNITY NEWS image: www.ddgworld.com
The Costa Cálida (Spanish pronunciation) “Warm Coast” is the approximately 250 km stretch of Mediterranean coastline of the Spanish province of Murcia. This region has a micro-climate which features comparatively hot mean annual temperatures (and hence its name, “Warm Coast”) and a relative degree of aridity (precipitation averaging less than 34 cm annually). The Costa Cálida extends from El Mojón in the north near the province of Alicante, to near the municipality of Águilas in the south bordering on the region of Almería province. The northern end of this coastline includes the Mar Menor (“Little Sea”), a coastal saltwater lagoon
The Mar Menor is a huge (135 square kilometres) salt-water lagoon, separated from the Mediterranean by the 24 kilometre long La Manga del Mar Menor (The Strip). The average depth of the Mar Menor is four metres and at its maximum it is seven metres which means that the seabed slopes very gradually and you have to get several hundred metres in before the water is of any depth.
Archaeological Museum
The Mar Menor’s salinity provides buoyancy so it is, supposedly, one of the safest places to swim in the world. The mineral-rich waters are said to have therapeutic effects and because of this the area has a significant spa tourism industry. The sludge in the salt pans is also credited with beneficial effects on the health, so there are often dozens of mud people wallowing in it at any one time.
MABS Murcia North East - Sew’n’So’s - Sewing Group Every Mon Fortuna Taking place every other Monday at Urb. Las Kalendas from 14:00. For further information email: mabsmurciane@gmail.com
Every Day, Open from 10:30-14:00 and 17:00-20:00. Closed Monday mornings. At C/ Conde de Aranda. Tel: 968 493 287. Entry: Individual €1.20 Groups €0.60
A parkinsons Support Group
On Tuesdays at 11am At bobbie jo·s, los montisinos For a chat and a cup of tea For further information contact wally Williamson On 966 770 871
Cartagena and Mazarrón are two other important coastal towns in the region. Golf is a popular pastime for visitors and residents. There are many PGA championship courses such as El Valle which hosted the PGA European Seniors Tour in June 2011, Hacienda del Alamo which is the longest golf course in Spain and the famous La Manga Club. Read more: www.wikipedia.org
weekends it will be packed with Spanish families, who move most of their house onto the beach. The sea is very shallow, with netted off areas to exclude watersports, fishing and jellyfish. The jellyfish are mainly harmless and much reduced in numbers from previous years, apart from the summer of 2006 when they were back with a vengeance. Playa Honda beach During the week the beach is quiet.
Playa Paraiso beach on a summer weekendThe beach at Playa Paraiso is very popular, partly because it has road access right onto the beach. On summer
CHURCH OF ENGLAND COSTA CALIDA & ALMERIA Priest: Reverend Pauline Williams 950
Wish your Friends or Loved Ones Happy birthday, Anniversary or just send them a special message. Send details to production@soltimes.com
pals events
welcome events
956 166 / 687 250 860
which at around 170 km2 is Europe’s largest. The Mar Menor is separated from the Mediterranean by a 22 km-long spit of land called La Manga, on which most of the tourism development for the region has been constructed.
http://www.playaparaiso.org/
Talks & Workshops
31
14th/20th May Coach trip to PORTUGAL half board Wednesday February 25th - Dance with Diverse Duo and Dan Davy. €8. and visiting fabulous locations 510 Euros pp sharing Wednesday March 4th - Ladies Evening with the usual double. fashion show, bingo, stalls, and dancing to Woody. For information please call 626 460465 or visit €3. www.pals.sm4.biz or see us at La Ratatouille on a Wednesday March 25th - Dance with Time Warp and wednesday from 1 till 3 or at The Trevi on a Saturday Karen Noble. €8. Sunday March 29th - Annual Treasure Hunt. See parts 11 till 1.30pm of our area not normally seen. €8 including buffet at MARKET DAYS IN THE AREA our mystery final destination. 2015 Trips. Monday - San Pedro del Pinatar Tuesday - Los Alcazares / Alhama Valentines Weekend to Benalmadena now fully booked. de Murcia Monday May 11th - Trip to Cordoba for the “Patio Of The Flowers” festival. See all the patios in the old city Wednesday - Santiago de la decorated with colourful blooms. 4 days 3 nights B&B Ribeira / Fuente Alamo / Totana in a 4-star hotel. €260 including trip to Ubeda. Thursday - San Javier / Camposol Wednesday May 27th - Cruise around the Mediterranean. Sector A / Lorca Overnight in Valencia, then on to Barcelona for 12 nights aboard Royal Caribbean “Vision Of The Seas.” Friday - Isla Plana (Summer Calling at Villefranche, La Spezia, Civitavecchia, Naples, only) 2 days in Venice, Ravenna, and Kotor, Montenegro. All Saturday - Mazarron Pueblo / outside cabins. Aguilas Monday September 14th - Trip to Salamanca, staying 2 nights at Hotel Exe Hall, close to city centre, 2 nights in Sunday - Puerto de Mazarron / Leon, and 1 night in Valladolid. All B&B. €295. Mar Menor / Cabo de Palos For more details call Rosemary on 620 105 179
learn to paint
Every Mon, Fri Using watercolour, pastels or acrylics these are small classes on Monday and Friday afternoons at Playa Paraiso, La Manga. For further information contact Bee Tel: 968 564 416 or 670 353 738
St. Nicholas Ecumenical Church
We hold services each week at 10.30am on Camposol, Mazarron. Everyone is welcome to join us. For further details, call Rev. Maureen Kent 968 970 637
Luz del Sol
new properties s.l.
Call us on 968 199 068 www.luzdelsol.co.uk
Centro Comercial #34, Sector A, Urb. Camposol, Mazarron 30875, Spain
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for sale
pool tables
snooker tables, table tennis tables, darts. Tel: 666 933 726 www.spainpool.com Immaculate ‘Hawksmoor’ Black Evening Suit size 34” (87 cm) waist (expandable) 32” (82 cm) inside leg. 50€ ono Tel: 625 724 252 Black real Fur Jacket Size 14 Bargain 75€ ono Tel: 625 724 252 Univac Built-in Vacuum System – Supply Only, 1500 watt Lamb Motor, full instructions Bargain 500€ Tel: 625 724 252 CERAMIC PENDANT LIGHT FITTING. Spanish design includes long chain. Brand new, never used, not suitable for our casa. 20€, Gig Bags for guitar and bass guitar. Ritter brand, v.g.quality, new, 30€ each, Microphone stands, new, heavy duty, good quality. Surplus to requirements 20€ each. Tel: 968 484 151 Near Totana. 2 SINGLE BEDS with clean mattresses, 2 pine wood headboards, 50€ the pair, Quesada, Tel: 966 716 710 KING SIZE MATTRESS firm 200/ 156 as new 80€ o.n.o. Tel: 966 718 805 CRYSTAL GLASS SET: 6 flutes, 6 wine, 6 brandy, 6 port, 8 liqueur, 55€ Tel: 966 700 397 KARRITE ODYSSEY 580 LTR ROOF BOX BY THULE. Perfect for large 4x4, SUV’s & estate cars. high strength ABS and Duotek. Used twice 200€ ono, Tel: 965 037 964 PACE 2600 SKY DIGIBOX, remote and leads, Ideal fringe areas 50€, Tel: 690 772 178 (San Fulgencio) “ STAINLESS STEEL INSET SINK.780 X 430 with mixer tap, good condition, can email photo 20€, Camposol area Tel: 676 028 725 WROUGHT-IRON FIRE BASKET 50cm (wide) x (45cm deep) complete with log-effect electric “glow” brings instant cheer to your room for Christmas. Complete with wroughtiron fire guard. Make your room homely by a realistic log-effect fire to pop into that empty fireplace, 50€ o.n.o. complete,2 washable duvets snuggly warm, Immaculate condition 25€ the pair Matching single duvet covers, with p/cases and toning fitted sheets, one cream/jades - the other set cream plus traditional florals in pinks/greens with frilled p/cases and duvet edgings. Each bedding set 20€ Tel: 965 326 817 Ann or Ron (Playa Flamenca area).
drop x 140cm width. Gold with green stripe, silky material. 30€ per pair or 80€ for 3. Quesada Tel: 966 713 707 KENWOOD INDUSTRIAL FOOD MIXER with book and tools area los altos 50€, Panasonic fax machine with two phones, 20€, los altos Tel: 669 172 982 INVALID BUGGY: plus Galvanised Ramp, plus Invalid Shopping Trolley 299€ the lot, new gel batteries (good for flights), and tyres an absolute bargain,. Tel: 966 700 397/660 646 674 or photo neave2@live.com N.Johnson BROTHER KNITTING MACHINE and lace carriage, good working order. Extras include ribber and sack of yarn. 85€ ono, Brother Embroidery Machine fraction of new cost includes two embroidery cards and & large hoop, recently serviced by Brother €250€, Brother PE-Design V6 embroidery digitizing and copying software with USB writer box and card. fraction of new price 199€ Tel: 865 779 402 BROTHER INDUSTRIAL SEWING MACHINE on stand with single phase motor in excellent condition, 100 needles and lots of accessories. 275€ o.n.o Tel: 865 779 402 OAK NEST OF FOUR TABLES, suitable for use with table lamps or as side tables, vgc – 80€ Tel: 646 444 942/968 199 913 CENTRAL HEATING RADIATOR 750mm x 400mm double convector with top grill & side panels vgc 10€ ono Tel: 965 724 183/616 883 103 EXECUTIVE DESK, curved with locking drawers, matching filing cabinet with 2 wide lockable drawers, good quality, teak & black finish, executive chair in black upholstery. Bargain at 190€ ono Tel: 966 190 695/620 600 562 2 BUTANO GAS BOTTLES 40€, Single phase deep submersible water pump (as used in a domestic well), can be seen running 100€, Tel: 634 334 532
business opportunity
“Internet Millionaire Reveals Secrets Of Making £1,000 A Week & More Without Any Previous Experience”
UNUSED GIFT. 16 INCH HP LAPTOP COMPUTER, 3 months old with Windows 8 in English. Wi-Fi. 4GB memory. Still boxed cost 450€ accept 285€ Tel: 634 334 532
If you would like to start earning extra money now! Then the internet is definitely the place to do this. You can earn money whilst relaxing by the pool or even earn whilst you’re sleeping. This is the reality for people that are making money online. Read why you should be cashing in on today’s booming economy and discover for yourself how you can turn your passion into a large monthly wage, every single month.
CURTAINS, SWAGS, TAILS AND TIE BACKS. 3 pairs approx 260cm
www.howtomakemoneyfrommembershipsites.co.uk
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Advertise all your unwanted items for sale in this section
Any single item up to 300€ is free of charge email: blancasales@ soltimes.com electricians
Electrician available for all works Small or large. Call Dave 693 251 562
davendonc@aol.com insurance
asssa medical
insurances Asssa Mazarron, Diane Nolan, 968 153 396
mazarron@asssa.es jewellery
GOLD WANTED English jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold jewellery, silver and coins
IMMEDIATE CASH PAYMENT Call Peter
664 890 990
Member of the National Association of Goldsmiths
personals “Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the ads in this section offensive”
Spanish lady Playa Flamenca near new Carrefour before La Florida. 37 years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie, prices from 40€. Full discretion. Tel: Ana 865 646 437 ELEGANT slim, sexy, naughty italian lady available home/house visits. Torrevieja, La Manga, Torre Pacheco & Mazarron, Quesada plus all other areas. Escort available home & house visits. Tel: 693 357 526
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property for sale / rent
VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT
SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL
TRAVELLING IN AIR CONDITIONED VEHICLE DELIVERED TO DOOR PETS STAY IN PET FRIENDLY HOTELS. ACCOMPANIED TRAVEL AVAILABLE
(0034) 667 235 205 (sp) (0044) 7850 575862
2 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, pENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN VERA PLAYA ALL MOD CONS, BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING FANTASTIC VIEWS cALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com Vera Playa Apartment FOR SALE Apartment
(Top floor / Penthouse) Almoradi, Costa Blanca
bargain
BELLA Bella is a lovely friendly little girl who is very affectionate and placid towards people. she loves people and wants to be with you at all times, She is fine with other dogs. Bella is a small dog about the size of a spaniel, She has been Spayed. D.O.B OCTOBER 2012 APPROX.
Please contact K9 or PHONE: 600 84 54 20 for more info
www.k9club.es
4 BED, 2 BATH, Large Terrace overlooking Plaza, separate kitchen and utility room, lift, furnished incl. white goods, UK TV. 105m². Close to the town ‘s attractive central square and all other amenities. 10 mins drive from the resort of Guardamar and close to La Finca Golf.
Reduced price 72,950€
(0034) 676 534 978
Only 15€ per week!
plasterer
for sale
mojacar playa front line apartment 1 bed apt with private, gated parking & gardens. Communal pool. Walking distance to amenities, shops and restaurants. Opposite beach. Sea views.
€69,000
T: 646 844 708
removals
De Lima’s
removals Local, National & international REMOVALS & STORAGE Quality Second hand furniture showroom
263 Paseo del Mediterraneo Mojacar Playa, Next to Sal Marina Hotel Mon-Fri: 10am-3pm sat 10am-2pm Tel: 950 615 364 Call Marc on 647 006 183 or Brian on 674 280 268 or e-mail enquiries@delimas.biz
www.delimas.biz
fortnightly SERVICE TO & FROM UK FULL OR PART LOADS
UK - SPAIN - UK
Van hire
ONE WAY
UK to Spain or Spain to UK
*LOCAL *NATIONAL *EUROPEAN
* COLLECTION & DELIVERY *STORAGE
TEL: 667 235 205
Pick up/drop off locations Throughout UK, France and Spain
lineage from only 45c per word sat/tv services Rainbow Satellites for all your TV needs with clients all over the Murcia Region. Contact Matt or Alan on 686 358 475 or
rainbowsats@gmail.com spas
euro spas
Spas at factory prices. Used & Ex display models. Spares & repairs. Part exchange Telephone 650 722 905
LWB Sprinter van going from south to North of the UK & back every 2 weeks, based near Murcia Airport. Tel: 610 846 260/ 0044 7519 186 355. or email: van.man@ hotmail.co.uk
wigs
From a parcel to a small house move Professional,Friendly & Caring Fully insured, scheduled monthly door to door service
uk@fmtransport.co.uk www.fmtransport.co.uk
James & Son UK, France & Spain
detatched cortijo reduced
20mins from mojacar, 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas,kitchen&diningroomaswellas aworkshop,courtyardfront&back& room forapool.Mountainviews. €125,000 ono 649 186 107 oremail thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com
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ENGLISH PLASTERER internal finishing, external rendering, 15 years experience, good rates. fully legal in spain. Call Chris 671 444 246 / 965 078 866 email: c_pettit@hotmail. co.uk
33
personalshoppingfromtheUK (Argos,Screwfix,Wickesetc) Pet Transportation & Competitive Rates
0034 627 968 434 0044 7874 638 330
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Salon Mar ga r et h a s 24 years in Torrevieja hair / wig specialist for medical illness and hair loss problems. We offer different hair replacements, top fillers, hair prostheses, toupees & wigs. Natural & artificial hair & much more. Also fashion /festival accessories. TV/TS are welcome to our service. Call Margaretha on 966 921 846 for an appointment.
COSTA BLANCA
KATE- : 902 750 190 (EXT: 330) email: blancasales@soltimes.com
COSTA CALIDA/MAR MENOR PAULETTE : 902 750 190 (EXT: 332) email: calidasales@soltimes.com
Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent of political parties, private investment and government. Our policy is to provide readers with a news and information service that is fair, accurate and balanced. Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent publications. Published weekly and produced exclusively in Murcia & Blanca. Sol Times News Group cannot be held responsible for claims made by advertisers, nor can it be held responsible for errors in advertisements caused by poor quality text, photographs or layout instructions. Furthermore, no responsibility can be accepted for any loss or damage resulting caused by any error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of an advertisement. Deposito Legal Sol Times Calida AL 851-2010. Sol Times Blanca AL 852-2010
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for sale Hummer H2Auto 2006 - 4x4 6.0 Automatic 67,592 kms, 2 owners Full service history A/C (Full climate) ABS, Cd player E. windows/mirrors Front fog lights Multi Airbags PAS, Remote locking Rear head restraints Sunroof Black
ToyotaYaris 2010 - 5 door hatch 1.0 VVTi 43,000 kms 1 owner Full service history A/C (Climate) PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors CD/Bluetooth Remote locking Rear head restraints New ITV and tyres! Metallic black
Seat Cordoba Nov ‘03 - 4 door saloon 1.9 TDi (Diesel) 135,000 kms 2 owners Full service history PAS ABS, A/C E. windows/mirrors Rear luggage cover Remote locking Rear head restraints White
€19.950
€7,450
€3,450
600 726 221 or
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Looking for a car Quality LHD & RHD cars bought & sold all paper work undertaken
Ford Ka 2005 - 3 door hatch 1.3 60,000 kms 2 owners Full service history A/C PAS, ABS Electric windows CD player Central locking Rear head restraints Metallic blue
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600 726 221 965 687 976
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Mobile Auto Electrician ENGINE MANAGEMENT DIAGNOSTICS
CASH CASH CASH
fault Finding & Repairs Engine Diagnostics Air-conditioning Re-gas & repairs Starter Motor & Alternator Repairs
Telephone Al - Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm FULLY MOBILE
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We pay instant cash same day for cars, vans, bikes, quads, caravans, trailers, absolutley anything!
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638 323 499
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“RE-PLATE” MATE GB
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Don’t take a chance! Don’t break the Law! Let us take the hassle away from you and re-register your vehicle on to Spanish plates 490€ plus Road Tax plus CO2 emission if applicable WE PROMISE TO BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTATION For a full service contact:
Alan 662 249 159
www.replatematecostablanca.com
For re-registration of cars, motorbikes and motor homes contact Graham Shelton Who after re-registering over 1000 vehicles will put you on the right side of the road.
605 319 889 or 966 753 375 www.spanish-number-plates.com info@spanish-number-plates.com
Best prices paid Spanish English Anythingconsidered
tel: Tim on 662 211 993
€2.950
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2015 Peugeot 208 GTi 30th Anniversary Three decades later, can the Peugeot 208 GTi 30th Anniversary rekindle the magic of the iconic 205 GTi original? We drive it in the UK to find out What is it?: I’m not sure if the phrase ‘making a rod for your own back’ is common parlance on the other side of the channel, but if not, Peugeot’s probably introduced it to the Gallic lexicon.The ‘rod’ in this case is the iconic 205 GTi, a car so good in its day - and still adored now that in the succeeding three decades, every new sporty Peugeot has been compared with it and usually dismissed as below par. However, with 2014 marking 30 years since the company revelled in the hot-hatch big time, and using the respectable 208 GTi as a foundation, the chaps at Peugeot Sport were given the green light to go for gold once again and take on the standard-setting Ford Fiesta ST. The result is the rather obviously named 208 GTi 30th Anniversary, of which just 800 will be built. As you might expect, there is more power, heavily revised suspension and remapped steering, all of which has been dressed in a style that carries hints of the 1980s original but is thoroughly forward looking, modern and aggressive – especially with the optional red and matt black ‘Coupe Franche’ paint scheme of our test car. What’s it like?: The changes start with the 1.6-litre turbo motor, which has been fettled to produce a further 8bhp and 18lb
ft of torque. The changes have also brought about a significant drop in CO2 emissions from the standard car, to just 125g/km. Such diminutive gains in output were never going to result in an exponential performance boost, but nevertheless, 0-62mph drops by 0.3sec to 6.5sec. Whether it feels much faster is arguable, but there’s no doubt the engine pulls well from low to mid revs, then invites you to rev it out, delivering an extra burst of enthusiasm in the final 2000rpm before the limiter. Mechanically, the engine has an inherent smoothness, and from the outside it sounds good, too. Sadly, that doesn’t percolate into the cabin, where a rather run-ofthe-mill engine note never manages to stir the soul like a Fiesta ST’s. Top marks to Peugeot for offering its hottest 208 with a traditional six-speed manual gearbox, with revised ratios matched to the engine’s power characteristics. It’s pleasantly slick, if lacking that rewarding clickety-clack of the best, such as the Fiesta ST’s. Peugeot Sport has effected the biggest changes to the 208’s suspension. The front and rear tracks have grown by 22mm and 16mm respectively and a further 10mm has been chopped from the ride height (the standard 208 GTi is already 8mm lower). Spring rates and damper settings have been tweaked, along with a modified front camber angle and wheel alignment. In a bid to dial out the standard car’s tendency to understeer, they’ve also softened the front anti-roll bar. Along with the suspension upgrades, traction and drivability are aided by the adoption the same Torsen differential as the RCZ R coupé, as well as 18in alloys, shod with sticky 205section Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. At the front, these are bolted to hubs carrying 323mm brake discs, clamped by four-pot Brembo calipers. The results are impressive. Despite testing it on freezing Surrey roads, the GTi 30th showed decent traction off the line and when powering hard out of corners. It will torque steer, but if you apply the throttle sensitively you can feel the diff shifting drive between each front wheel, searching for the one with the most grip. The less than ideal conditions meant there was always going to be a fight between those Michelins and the greasy road surface, but it’s impressive for a front-wheeldrive car with 205bhp. The front wheels tend to want to follow the road’s topography rather than your chosen line, but there is a quickness to the rack that means it turns in keenly, and it has a decent level of feel for an electrically assisted set-up. It’s spoiled slightly by a vagueness and lack of weight at dead centre, but once you get past this, it loads up nicely through the pleasingly small steering wheel. Read more on: autocar.co.uk
SOLTIMES january 2015
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Book Review The Next Big Spanish Adventure by Janette Davies
“It was too late, all the rafters had seen the sitting man, his body bound with white sheeting and his decapitated head, face turned towards the river, resting on his lap.” The saga continues at Apartamento Paraiso with some of the familiar characters we met in the first book and some welcoming additions. “Chaos to the Costa” could have been a headline in the Sol Times. The expats seem responsible for some bizarre goings-on once again. A murder in the least expected place, a beauty spot, apparently staged for maximum effect, to shock and horrify, I.S. style to give it a contemporary feel, followed by a brutal murder witnessed by newly weds on what should have been a happy occasion. The usual cycle of unexpected birth, marriage and natural, unsuspicious deaths complete the pattern. Nothing untoward there. But a 51% share in a brothel? We are presented with a dramatic opening revealing elements of black humour and an explosive ending which may well shock you which IS dark! James, Carole’s brother phones urgently from the UK warning his sister that their father was fuming whilst mum was panicking and crying. Don’t parents embarrass you? The bottom line is that they are on their way to visit Carole and she should expect a frosty reception. Has she done something wrong? What warrants an unexpected visit out of the blue?? Father Charles is irate and a bit gullible. He is prone to
believing gossip rather than thinking for himself: “I have a son who sleeps all day and mixes with drug dealers, pushers, sniffers and God knows who else all night. Now I’ve got a daughter who’s on the game.” I should also mention that he is prone to exaggerate and he’s way off the mark about his children. What an idiot. Charles has been prey to gossip at the golf club with Perky Perkins and the infamous Anji Bailey, a bit of an oddball, stirring trouble perhaps? The history is simply that Carole worked in Anji and Benji’s bar and since leaving, has been treated horribly. Carole’s Spanish on-off boyfriend, Guillermo works under-cover with his two cousins in a dangerous pursuit of drug pushers on the Costa. It’s a dangerous game, just like the Mexican cartel in something recent like The Counsellor. We are reminded of the shooting and the time spent recuperating for hunky Guillermo. “The world of illegal drugs is a very dangerous and desperate environment. as soon as we catch and stop one set of criminals, another will take its place.” Carole’s ex, Lyle seems involved in drugs, along with Samantha and Barney. Robert Perkins is obnoxious,
or in the writer’s own words: a “pompous little git.” He bought Anji’s restaurant and seems fond of patronising the women he leers at. When Anji returns to Spain she works with Carole in helping to decorate apartments that are going to be rented out. Anji acknowledges the feisty, streetwise nature of Carole who isn’t so green as cabbage looking. “You might look like Bambi, but deep down, I think you’re more like King Kong.” There are moments of sympathy felt for this misunderstood woman but greater moments of mistrust when we find out what she is capable of doing. She thrives on stirring up trouble between Carole and her boyfriend. She eyes him up thinking she can get ‘em going! The next thing we know she’s waiting to seduce him or perhaps she just wants to keep his bed warm? “It would be best if you left my bed, replaced your clothes, I would hate to shoot you on the assumption that you were a burglar.” Our Anji’s nasty streak emerges when she threatens lover boy: “Keep a close eye on Carole, it would be terrible if anything happened to her.” Is this La Femme Fatale speaking? What game is she playing? Guillermo reciprocates her threat
by warning her that if Carole is hurt he will kill her and that is a promise! Things are heating up as you can see. When Carole discovers this little episode she hits the roof and behaves like a petulant teenager jumping to conclusions and ends her relationship with lover boy. She even falls out with her best-friend, Sarah-Jane:”I am sick and tired of people treating me as if I am a piece of delicate china-being protective-shielding me from thingswrapping me in cotton wool.” Tension is high during the incident of white water rafting in Cieza, Murcia. A moment of excitement turns sour and this prepares us in some way for the grotesque and unexpected killing at the finale. “Blood seeped from between her fingers, covering the right side of her dress, as mayhem ensued and everyone started screaming.” What is going on? Who shot who and why? I suspect there will be a third in the series to pick up the threads of mayhem and chaos to the Costa. Why should the Costa del Sol have all the fun? I blame the expats. Enjoy. Publisher: Word Play Publishing Ltd. ISBN: 13:978-1503333741 and 10:1503333744. Available in paperback and kindle. REVIEW it by Carol Naylor. www.carolnaylor.blogspot.com / www.carolesleynaylor.wordpress.com naylorcl@hotmail.es
JAGUARS - Big Cats in Altea Golf Club – Don Cayo Restaurant
Announcement : JEC Spain has a www.jec-spain.com
The Jaguar Enthusiasts Club in Spain got together again on Sunday 25th January 2015, what a fabulous day in all respects. It’s mid winter, yet we had blue skies, beautiful sunshine and warm enough to sit outside to admire the views and chat to friends old and new. Perfect weather for taking that cherished Big Cat out on the road. Somewhere different this time, up the motorway to the “dizzy heights” of Altea, the Don Cayo Restaurant in Altea Golf Club. Parking was a bit limited but we did manage to get all the cars in a row. 20 beautiful examples of Jaguars automotive engineering and 64, yes 64 people for lunch. A little down on the numbers of cars, it just so happens that a few of our beloved big cats are “at the vets”. May I take this opportunity to thank all those that attended especially the people that have never been
before. As always a big thank you to Ian McMenemy for all his hard work organising this event, and a special mention and t h a n k s to Hans Nilsson and David Sleap who helped pull this meeting together. T h e s u p e r b selection of Jaguars at this meeting as always, enough to make the pulse of any “petrol head” race. We were graced with a stunning range of Jaguars as always, Ian McMenemys and David Sleaps S Types, 11 and 12 years old respectively and looking like they have just left the showroom. A fabulous XJS Convertible in white, and a seriously impressive Mk 2, X Types,XK8’s, XKR’s XJ’s, and of course the guvnors XK8 DHC to complete the line up. We could not have wished for a better day or location, out in the sun, pre dining drinks on the terrace looking over the golf course in the valley, sitting there in shirt sleeves in January. We are so so fortunate. The pleasure started with the waiters bringing round a little “amuse bouche”, piped potato tower around a grilled prawn, delightful. Into the restaurant, stunning tables, starched
white tablecloths, I just knew this was going to be good. White, Rosé and smooth fruity Rioja were brought to the table. The first course was firstly a piece of art, a tartar of salmon and avocado, topped with a cream cheese, herbs and a lumpfish caviar, dressed with mustard and balsamic reduction and salmon caviar. The description says it all. Second course, a Tandori Chicken salad, a stunning contrast to the first course, fresh, aromatic with that hint of spice. Various meat and fish courses were available for the main course, my wife and I chose the lamb served with a dauphinoise potato, we even had mint sauce a rare commodity in Spain. Dessert was a light gateaux. We finished the day with a few announcements and presentation of the JEC Spain plaque to the Maitre D” for Don Cayo. Outside for the mandatory group photo then a coffee or a last drink, then head for home, a fabulous afternoon. Our next meeting is on Sunday the 1st March 2015, location to be confirmed.
Watch the website www.jec-spain. com for more details. This will be the last meeting before The Big One, a joint meeting between JEC Spain and JEC France at the end of March, this really will be something special. Other events in the planning for this year is another Mystery Tour and a “Trip Down South”. The Jaguar Enthusiasts Club is the largest of the worlds Jaguar Clubs, apart from joining in the fun at the meetings, full members also benefit from a glossy 140 page A4 monthly magazine, Jaguar spares department and a technical advice service second to none. If you live in Spain and own a Jaguar you should be a member of The Jaguar Enthusiasts Club. The JEC in Spain is organised by Eric Arnold and Ian McMenemy. Eric can be contacted by email at jaguarspain@outlook.com or by phone on 609 931 647 or alternatively check out the JEC Spain website www.jec-spain.com Our Events Director, Ian McMenemy can be contacted at McMenemy@JECevents.com. Come along and join us. Written by Eric Arnold
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SOLTIMES january 2015
SOL SPORT & MOTORING
F1 2015 Jerez test line-up
Ronaldo suspension worry for stuttering Real
A suspension for Cristiano Ronaldo is the latest concern for coach Carlo Ancelotti whose Real Madrid side are looking far from the slick machine that strung together 22 straight victories before Christmas. Ronaldo was the inspiration behind that Spanish record-winning streak but he had one of his poorest matches in a Real shirt in the 2-1 victory over Cordoba on Saturday, the win coming through a late penalty from Gareth Bale. Real still lead the La Liga table by a point and have a game in hand but they have an in-form Barcelona breathing down their necks. While Real are stuttering, Barca have clicked into gear and tore apart Elche 6-0 and Atletico Madrid are also looking strong, four points behind after a 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano. Ronaldo was unable to make an impact against Cordoba and his frustration saw him lash out with his hand against Jose Crespo which the referee missed and then minutes later he was sent off for kicking out at Edimar. He was quick to apologise on Twitter after the game but he is now likely to be suspended for the next two
matches against Real Sociedad and Sevilla but could also miss the derby with Atletico. It was generally a disjointed match from Real whose rhythm and link-up play has dropped noticeably in recent weeks. They lost their first match back after the Christmas break as they looked sluggish against Valencia and then followed it up with elimination from the King’s Cup at the hands of Atletico Madrid. Injuries have played their part, with Luka Modric and Isco missing from the centre of the pitch against Cordoba, which has put a greater demand on the shoulders of Toni Kroos who is looking weary. Goalkeeper Iker Casillas was still upbeat and pointed towards the mentality of the players that helped them beat Cordoba. “These are the types of victories that win you leagues,” Casillas told reporters. “It was difficult for us and we didn’t play at our best but we are now boosted by the three points. It came more as a result of effort than anything else.” reauters.com
Bottas 3 February - Felipe Massa, 4 February - Felipe Massa Scuderia Ferrari - 1 February - TBA, 2 February - TBA, 3 February - TBA, 4 February - TBA McLaren Honda - 1 February Fernando Alonso, 2 February - Jenson Button, 3 February - Fernando Alonso, 4 February - Jenson Button Force India - 1 February - TBA, 2 February - TBA, 3 February - TBA, 4 February - TBA Toro Rosso - 1 February - Carlos Sainz Jr, 2 February - Max Verstappen, 3 February - Carlos Sainz Jr, 4 February - Max Verstappen Lotus F1 Team - 1 February - TBA, 2 February - TBA, 3 February - TBA, 4 February - TBA Sauber F1 Team - 1 February - Marcus Ericsson, 2 February - Felipe Nasr, 3 February - Felipe Nasr, 4 February Marcus Ericsson. http://jackleslief1.blogspot.co.uk/
Lo Crispin Golf Society at Las Ramblas
Why do we do it? Las Ramblas is a difficult course at the best of times but it was made more difficult when we played a team event on Wednesday due to the strong winds. The format for the day was a 2 man scramble and to keep the game moving we used the stableford scoring system. The high wind obviously effected the scoring which was low for this type of event. Results for the day, 1st Jim Preston / John Jones 33 points, 2nd Willie Mackie / George Stewart 30 Points C/B, 3rd Malcolm Morrison / Mike on the Course, nor close to the greens. Cutts 30 Points C/B, 4th Steve Harrington The computer soon let you know when you “disobeyed”, by stopping the cart! It seemed as though you were walking around with 3 clubs in your hands a lot of the time. This was felt to be rather annoying but did not detract from the great day we had. Presentation of the prizes along with the New Year Cup was held at Franc y Louise In the 1st division good wins for Bar in Sucina, enjoying Mo’s delicious Buccaneers and Amigos Belgas 1. sandwiches. Winners were: 1st Division - John Storey, Buccaneers go top of the league with 2nd Division - Vic Spillard, 3rd Division - Amigos Belgas 1 second. Could next week be the title decider John Lester. NTP winners being - Hole 5 Roger Major, Hole 7 Doug Oxlade, Hole 10 with the Buccaneers at home to Amigos Vic Spillard, Hole 14 John Storey and Hole Belgas 1 ?? Into division 2, good wins 17 Wayne Harris. Congratulations to all for Los Bandidos , Lakeside hellcats and Breeze bar cannons keep them in 1st 2nd our winners. For further information of the Society 3rd places respectively. In division 3 good wins for Amigos and our games for 2015, please go to our website at: www.sucinagolfsociety.webs. Belgas 2 Torre bears 1 and Blagul 1. com. Our next game in February is at Las Amigos Beglas 2 are looking a good bet Ramblas on Tuesday 17th. for promotion.
Sucina Golf Society Match Report
Our first game of the season was a return to a very much liked course by our Members & Guests at Las Colinas on 20th January. Playing format for this first game of the year, was an Individual Stableford along with a team format of the “ best 2 scores”. In addition, competing for the New Year Cup 2015 which was won by John Storey. 32 players turned out on an overcast, windy and very cold morning,. Players turning up in several layers of clothing to keep warm and this remained for all of the match as weather conditions did not improve. All players in buggies and the chill factor was enhanced by this! The course in good condition for this time of year and the greens quick. Several players being caught out by the speed on the greens and 3 putts were not uncommon. The buggies are very up to date and fitted with electronic course planners. The downside to this was that you were unable to take the buggies
The start of the F1 2015 season is just around the corner, with pre-season testing kicking off on the 1 February at the Circuito de Jerez. Nine teams will take part in the fourday event, and the driver line-up is starting to take shape. Force India has already confirmed that its 2015 car, the VJM08, will not debut until the second test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. However, the Silverstone-based outfit will be at first test from the 14 February with its 2014 car. Force India revealed its new livery for the up-coming season last week. Here is the confirmed driver line-up for the Jerez test so far: Mercedes AMG Petronas - 1 February - Nico Rosberg, 2 February - Lewis Hamilton, 3 February - Nico Rosberg, 4 February - Lewis Hamilton Red Bull Racing - 1 February - TBA, 2 February - TBA, 3 February - TBA 4 February - TBA Williams Martini Racing - 1 February - Valtteri Bottas, 2 February - Valtteri
/ Alan Crain 30 Points C/B Nearest the Pins
Hole 6 Paul Flanaghan, Hole 10 Padraig Obrien, Hole 14 Dave Lewis The free game draw was won by Alan (never win anything) Crain There were 2 x 2’s’ recorded John Jones / Jim Preston & Dave Lewis / Stan Earl. Prizes were presented in the Lo Crispin Tavern after the game. Our thanks to David and his team for the after game refreshments. Our next game is at Las Colinas on 4th February 2015.
Las salinas petanca league
In division 4 Amigos Belgas 3, pumas and Torre bears 2 all had convincing wins, with El Raso Bandidts winning away at San Miguel Tigers. In division 5 Guardamar look certain champions, but who will go up with them? Falcons went 2nd with a good away win closely followed by Dominoes mccoys. Into division 6, Rocajuna Lions won away and go top of the division. Blagul 2 stay 2nd although they had a free week. Once again a big thank you to all our sponsors casas Manuel Rapid Repairs Dominos bar EDP electric. Linda haymes Press sec
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SOL SPORT & MOTORING
Los Amigos Golf Society (LAGS) Mazarrón
Fundraisers extraordinaire LAGS (Los Amigos Golf Society) Mazarron kicked off their 2015 season at Paraleja Golf Resort on the 6th January, hoping to eclipse last year’s fantastic charitable efforts. Over the course of the last 7 years and thanks to the generosity of the society’s sponsors, LAGS have raised in excess of €18, 000, a level unparalleled in the region. The main recipient has been the Aspadem School in Mazarron; a school for children and young adults with disabilities and LAGS have been able to provide financial support enabling the school to purchase badly needed equipment and services to enhance the development of their pupils. LAGS have also supported, MAD (to purchase school books for disadvantaged children in Mazarron), Murcia Dance, Escuela de Futbol de Mazarron, Camposol Children (to help fund the development of a playground and sports facilities) and many others. On a bright sunny but chilly January morning, 35 players teed off from the
1st and 10th tees in what turned out to be extremely difficult conditions. This was clearly a day suited to players able to ‘pick’ the ball, cleanly, off bare lies. Sadly not all of our members possess these skills so point scoring remained difficult (in fact impossible for many). The day belonged to our winners who all turned in very good scores under such difficult conditions, so a big congratulations to : Tony Pickworth 31pts (Cat 1) : Tony Gleed 30 pts (Cat 2) : Alan Benton 30 pts (Cat 3) Our nearest the pin winners: Dave Pugh (aka Mr Sandman) Hole 2 , Martin Hill Hole 16. Our Presentation evening at the Black Bull, Camposol was yet again a terrific night out. The kitchen put on the usual fantastic food for us and with Lisa B providing the music, a good night was had by all. For details of LAGS society and forthcoming fixtures please visit: www.losamigosgolfsociety.es
San Javier golf society
We played our January Individual Stableford ay Roda and what a great turn out we had with 3 divisions. a very cold start to the morning turn to a nice warm day but the golfers main enemy was there the wind which kept the scores down a few points apart from one which was Fred Beel who came in with a great 39pts. In the top Division Bob Gallard pip Dave Archer into first place on count back both on 33pts and in third was
Ken McKee on 30pts. Second Division was won by Barry Geary with 33pts one in front of Mick Hardy in second place on 32pts. Dave Farrington was third on 29pts. The third Division was won by Fred Beel with 39pts followed by John Hillier on 37pts well played gentlemen. Third was Jo Flanagan on 34pts. The Societies Next Game is at Mar Menor Golf on the 2nd February with the first tee at 10.15am
25’95 €
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MAZARRON FC 3 BENIAJAN CF 0 Mazarron delighted their supporters with a fantastic victory over a Beniajan team which had won 18 of its first 19 games this season. It was Mazarron’s fifth successive victory, a feat they have not achieved for eight years since the promotion season from the Tercera Division. As expected, Beniajan attacked straight from the kick off but the Mazarron defence held firm. At the other end Tolo shot over the bar. Tolo then broke clear out of defence and found Stevens with a superb pass but the youngster’s touch let him down and the ball went out for a throw in. Beniajan forced a number of free kicks which were dealt with by the Mazarron defence and their excellent goalkeeper, Conejo as both sides tried to gain control of the game. Tolo had another excellent run just before half time which ended with a shot into the side netting and the interval came with honours fairly even. Mazarron started the second half brightly with Stevens and Tolo working well together up front. Both teams were striving for that first goal and Mazarron
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were creating more chances and growing in confidence. Toni replaced the hardworking Stevens and Mazarron finally took the lead after 61 minutes when Tolo scored after another of his trademark runs. Their lead was increased four minutes later much to the delight of their ecstatic supporters when Dani rose to head home from a corner. Mazarron tails were now firmly up and Beniajan must have been wondering what had hit them when Manu headed Mazarron’s third goal after 68 minutes. With a comfortable lead Mazarron brought on Juanillo in place of Manu and Gines replaced the league’s leading goalscorer Tolo. They played out the final minutes of the game to earn a memorable victory which cements their fourth place position in the league and gives them a six point cushion in the race for a playoff position. Team: Conejo; Alfonso; Enrique; Dani; Lorca; Andreo; Mateo; Liders; Manu (Juanillo); Stevens (Toni); Tolo (Gines). Man of the Match: Andreo
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SOLTIMES january 2015
SOL SPORT & MOTORING
COSTA COBRAS RFC
TMGS Match Report The club is steadily moving forward with new players coming in all the time and now have players from 8 years upwards. Due to circumstances beyond our control the club have had to change its name. The club is still the same as before with the same principles, but is now called Costa Cobras RFC instead of DS Barbarians RFC. We will have a stand down at the British day market on 31 January at Marjal campsite in Catral starting at 11.00 to 16.00, so come on down and have a chat.
Also we are having an open day on 7 March so people can come along and see the club and see what we are all about and play some rugby. We will be having lots of fun and games for people to join in and get the feel for the sport. All ages, gender and nationalities all are welcome, from beginners to experience players the more the merrier as we are based on the true traditional ethics of the sport. So come along and join the newest rugby team on the Costa Blanca, also team bonding after training in the nearest bar for a drink and chat, just how rugby should be. The juniors are training on Monday from 18.30-20.00 and Tuesday from 18.00-19.30, while the seniors will be training on Monday and Wednesday as usual from 20.30-22.30. So get those boots out and come on down to Daya Vieja sports ground and join in the rugby revolutions of 2015, with the Rugby World Cup to look forward to as well, get into this great sport. For more information about the club contact myself, Dutch, on 692 767 242 or Robert on 697 286 416 or come down and see me at Zoco market on Sunday, third row in from the main road at the far end. Also for all of your rugby branded clothing and gear including Canterbury casuals and Cotton Traders shirts.
Villamartin 21st January 2015. Today saw 36 of us turn out for the 3rd of 4 Eclectic competitions and although the sun was shining, it was in disguise although and when it did come out to play, it was a decent day but the majority still wore a jumper. Today was a carry over for the “Two’s” pot and with a total of 54€ in the kitty, two golfers went away very happy with 27€ each and they were Joe Dean and Tom Jones. Today, the NTP’s were kindly sponsored by the “One Eye Winery” courtesy of Arne Hansson and taking home a rather splendid bottle of plonk was Chris Oatley, Roger Maikainen, John Eyre and Vernon Brown who’s putting today was a sight to behold, but only if you were one of the 3 blind mice high on pot. VB will soon learn that a downhill and downwind putt is a bit quicker than a flat or uphill putt. The Best Guest prizes went to Jim Hagen and John Heterick, both scoring 26 points but Jim having the lower handicap took top spot. The Silver Division was a reasonably tight affair with Roger Maikainen’s 29 points took 4th spot, 31 points was
enough for Ole Rong to secure 3rd place and 1 point behind the runner-up, Shelia Dean on 32. The Austrian Bandit, Olga Haubner scored 34 points to take the top spoils. The Gold Division scores weren’t much better and it only needed a miserly 28 points from Joe Dean to take 4th spot, a massive 3 points behind 3rd placed Steve Higgins on 31 points. A steady 33 points from the reigning Club Champion Chris Oatley was enough for 2nd place and yet again, top of the Scandies was Kjell Aasebo coming home to win the Gold Division with 34 points. Photo: Gold category winners Next week (28th January) we are at La Marquesa for the next leg of the Captains Stableford, so if you fancy a game just look at our website www.tmgs.org or call the Match Secretary on 966719604. El Paraiso are commencing their 2015 competitions on 1st February 2015 at Villamartin. This is an open competition and the competition 2 weeks later is for Federated members only. If you wish to partake, call the number above or visit the website at www.clubdegolfelparaiso.com.
Spanglish Golf Society (in association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services) at Vistabella on 21st January This was the first meeting of the new year for the Spanglish Golf Society and a group of 19 players visited the established course at Vistabella taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services. Upon arrival we were informed that Pablo Riestra had parted company with Vistabella after six years and we wish him well for the future The course was wearing it’s winter coat and was in good condition but it was bitterly cold with an icy north west wind and this reflected in the low scores. The winners on the day were as follows:1st – Mike Probert, 2nd – Brian Burnard, 3rd – Richard Bairstow, 4th – Barbara Hitchings
Hewitson. Best Supporting Act – Joe Valente After the game we returned to the Spanglish bar, which is located at Dona Pepa, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their support. Our next fixture is at La Marquesa on Wednesday 18th February 2015 and visitors and guests are welcome because this is very much a social golfing group rather than a formal golf society. If you are interested in joining the group call Paul Cawte on 966731223 or better still pop into the bar. Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see us at our web-site at www.costa-blanca-greenfees.com.
Spanglish Golf Society Nearest the Pins – Chris Haw and Bob
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• ferrari f430, challenge car, 4.3l, v8, 2008, 7,000kms.......................................................................€89,950 • hummer h2 2006, 6.0l v8 auto, 42,000 miles, black... ...............................................................................................poa • FIAT 500 L, 2013, 1.4 PETROL, 15,000KMS..............€13,950 • peugeot 308 sw, 2.0 hdi, 2009, auto, diesel, 83,000 kms....................................................................€10,950 • seat leon 1.9 tdi, 2010, 96,000kms, fsh............€10,950 • vw touran 2.0 tdi, 2008, 7 seats, 135,000kms.....poa • peugeot 307cc, 2006, 2.0l, automatic, 63,000kms....... ...........................................................................................€8,950 • PEUGEOT 206, 2007, 1.4 PETROL, 31,000KMS............POA • ford fiesta 1.4 tdci 5-door, 2006........................€5,950 • alfa 156 crosswagon 1.9, jtd, 2005, 84,000kms........... ...........................................................................................€5,950 • OPEL ZAFIRA, 2004, 2.0 CDTI, DIESEL, 7 SEAT, 174,000KMS. ...........................................................................................€5,750 • peugeot206cc cabrio, 2.0i, 2002, 69,000kms.....€4,950 • RENAULT MEGANE SCENIC RX4, 168,000kms 1.9DTi, Diesel, 2001....................................................................€4,950 • opel corsa 1.3 cdti, 2005, diesel, 113,000kms€4,950 • opel corsa 1.7 cdti, 2003, diesel, 3 door 97.000 kms.......................................................................€3,950 • peugeot 806 2.0l petrol, 2000, auto, 7 seats, 125,000 kms....................................................................€3,950 • citroen picasso, 2.0hdi, 2000, diesel, 145,000kms....... ...........................................................................................€3,750 • mgf 1.8 cabrio 2001, 104,000kms, red.................€3,450 • FORD FOCUS 2002, 1.8 DEISEL, 95,000kms.............€3,450 • ford ka 1.3, 2002, 69,000kms...................................€2,950 • opel corsa 1.2, auto, 2001, 91,000kms...............€2,950 • Mitsubishi Carisma 2000, a/c, 143,000kms.........€2,950 • nissan cargo 2.3, d, 1997, 160,000kms................€2,450
motorcycles • honda vt750 shadow, 2005, 17,000kms............€3,950 • kawasaki eliminator 125cc, 2007, 1,400kms..............
..........................................................................................€1850 DIESEL, AUTO, 2005,167,000KMS Right hand drive vehicles
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VW Caddy
Wheelchair adapted, 2007,82,000 kms
poa
Peugeot 308 SW 2012
• peugeot 407 sw, 2010, 2.0l hdi, estate, 54,000 miles, blue, sat nav..............................................€8,950 • renault clio 1.2 estate, 2011, 30,000 miles, blue, ........................................................................................€8,950 • rolls royce silver spirit, rhd, 51,000 miles.......... ......................................................................................€13,950 • KIA SEDONA 2005, 2.9 TD, DIESEL, 113,000 MILES......... ........................................................................................€4,250
Right hand drive - spanish reg
7 seats, 1.6HDi, • renault kangoo 1.6i, automatic, 2008, rhd, diesel,61,000 km wheelchair adapted..............................................poa
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Renault Fluence
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chevrolet captiva
2.0 vcdi, 2009,103,000km
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Seat Leon 2010 1.9 TDi 96,000kms
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renault clio 1.2
2011, petrol, 31,000km
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peugeot 207 1.4, 2008, 37,000kms
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lancia musa
2005 121,000 kms
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HYUNDAI GETZ
1.1 PETROL, 195,000KM 2004
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40 SOLTIMES january 2015
Huercal-Overa CF1 Aguilas CF 1
Huercal-Overa Captian Pedro Lloris in action while Lee Spires offers support The 900 bumper attendance at El Hornillo saw a very good contest between two sides looking to cement a play off spot in the Tercera Division Group 13. The visitors took the lead in the 9th minute when Carrasco won a penalty after spinning past Edu Mesas who left his boot out to bring him down, Carrasco duly stepped up to fire home the spot kick. The lead was short lived as the home side started to move up the gears, an inch perfect cross from Expat Lee Spires found the head of Mansour who directed it past the helpless Javi Soto in the Aguilas goal after 13 minutes. From then on till the game was open and some tasty battles in the centre of the pitch saw 11 bookings from referee José Joaquín Gallego Gambín, who didn’t really control the game but made an impact on the fans who booed him off at half time and full time. The game ended at 1-1 but the Reds striker Tomas Campanas could have won it for the home side when he found himself a little bit of room to find space and shout at goal but couldn’t direct it past Soto. Elsewhere victories for La Union, Jumilla & Mar Menor keeps alive more
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dreams of promotion. La Unión C.F. 2 – 0 C.D. Cieza, Huercal-Overa CF 1 – 1 Águilas F.C., Mar Menor C.F. 1 – 0 A.D. Caravaca E.F. Alhama 0 – 3 C.D. Plus Ultra, P.M.D. Fortuna 1 – 1 R. Murcia Imperial, E.G. El Palmar C.F. 0 – 1 F.C. Pinatar, C.F. Molina SUSP Cartagena F.C., Yeclano Deportivo 2 – 0 C.D. Minera, Muleño C.F. 0 – 1 F.C. Jumilla. Huercal-Overa drop to 3rd in the table behind league leaders Real Murcia Imperial and Jumilla but travel to bottom side CD Cieza next week looking for all 3 pts. This weekend full fixtures are Jumilla v La Unión C.F., C.D. Cieza v Huercal-Overa CF, Águilas F.C. v Mar Menor C.F., A.D. Caravaca v E.F. Alhama, C.D. Plus Ultra v P.M.D. Fortuna, R. Murcia Imperial v E.G. El Palmar C.F., F.C. Pinatar v C.F. Molina, Cartagena F.C. v Yeclano Deportivo, C.D. Minera v Muleño C.F. Pictures, Gines Martinez. If you attend any local Football or Sporting events please send in your pictures and reports as we are very interested in hearing your voice and supporting the local community! editor@soltimes.com. Lee Rickard Graham
Rampant Barcelona thrash Elche
Messi fires home a penalty Piqué, Messi, Neymar and Pedro all got on the scoresheet in a one-sided affair, with Elche helpless to prevent an avalanche of Barça attacks.FC Barcelona made light work of Elche CF for the fourth time this season, hammering Fran Escriba’s side 6-0 at the Martínez Valero stadium. The hosts struggled to break down an organised Elche defence in the first half and had to keep an eye on the lively Fayçal Fajr and Jonathas de Jesus, who both had chances to score in the first half, but were denied by Barcelona custodian Claudio Bravo. Gerard Piqué marked his 200th Liga BBVA game in style by opening the scoring in the 36th minute and then Barcelona went on to dominate the second half, with Lionel Messi and
Neymar putting on an exhibition of attacking football and goals. The Argentinian doubled the lead from the penalty spot and then his Brazilian strike partner scored twice in three minutes to put the game out of Elche’s sight. Messi struck again to make it two goals and two assists, while Pedro completed the rout in stoppage time, converting a perfect pass from Neymar. Other results Valencia C.F. 3 – 1 Sevilla F.C., R.C.D. Espanyol 3 – 0 U.D. Almería, Córdoba C.F. 1 – 2 Real Madrid C.F., Real Sociedad 1 – 0 S.D. Éibar, Atlético de Madrid 3 – 1 Rayo Vallecano, R.C. Deportivo 2 – 2 Granada C.F., Elche C.F. 0 – 6 F.C. Barcelona, Villarreal C.F. 1 – 0 Levante U.D., Athletic Club 1 – 1 Málaga C.F..
Main Stand at El Hornillo, Huercal-Overa
them down and the teams went CAP Ciudad de Murcia v Alquerías break into the break level at 0-0. Result: HT 0-0 FT1-2 Stadium: José Barnés Att: 900 There were long queues at the gates
of the José Barnés stadium to see the return of CAP Ciudad de Murcia to their spiritual home. Ciudad went into this game sitting in second position in the Preferente, the highest the club have ever been since their reformation
as a fan owned club. There was a party mood amongst the bumper crowd (given officially as 900 but it looked more) but unfortunately for the home side Alquerías hadn’t read the script. Ciudad had gone into this one unbeaten at home, which up until this game had been La Flota, another small municipal stadium located in the city. Ciudad looked uncomfortable in their new surroundings, where the pitch looks slightly bigger than the one at La Flota. Also midfielder Nieto was missing for this game and Ciudad missed his influence in the centre of the park. The first half passed without much influence as a well drilled Alquerías thwarted all the efforts of Ciudad to
The second half had only just gotten underway when the visitors took a surprise lead through Ruben in the forty eighth minute. The home fans were stunned as their team struggled to get into any rhythm. An already resolute Alquerías defence now dug in and looked to hit Ciudad on the break and that is exactly what they did in the fifty seventh minute, when Josefi doubled the visitors lead. The Ciudad team looked dejected and shell-shocked but continued to probe for a foothold back in the game. A dissevered goal eventually came in the sixty fifth minute through substitute Pedro, which lifted the team and their fans. Alquerías then
had to sustain twenty five minutes of pressure as Ciudad mounted attack after attack. Nevertheless this was to no avail and the equaliser never came. To make matters worse Ciudad had two players red carded, for what can only be for descent, at the final whistle. Not a happy homecoming. Tony Higgins