Gibraltar Olive Press - Issue 55 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

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December 6th - December 19th 2017

The Rock’s original community newspaper

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Vol. 3 Issue 59 www.gibraltarolivepress.com December 6th - December 19th 2017

Is the future of budget air travel in jeopardy? The Olive Press investigates SEE PAGE 6

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Concern

His comments come after GSD MP Elliott Phillips stated his concern that the current government had created a ‘lost generation’ by pushing too many students into higher education. Lawyer Azopardi takes the subject particularly seriously, with two daughters currently going through Alevels and GCSEs. He admitted it had certainly been ‘a frenetic time’ since becoming leader but was looking forward to the dust settling so he could debate policy with party members. “It’s a great privilege and an honour to lead the GSD and I’m very grateful for the support I have received,” said Azopardi, who won Continues on Page 4

Issue 59

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By Laurence Dollimore

GIBRALTAR’S leader has blasted Theresa May and Brussels for forgetting the territory during the latest round of Brexit negotiations. It comes after a bitter row over whether to allow Northern Ireland to stay in the EU threatened to put a spanner in the works. Now after Wales, Scotland and even London suggested they could have separate trading deals, leader Fabian Picardo warned the UK not to overlook them as wrangling over trade talks goes to the wire ahead of a crunch EU summit in 10 days.

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National INDING Park the top a red telephone of a Spanish box (below) makes you at mountain question left home peak whether It’s a talking at all. you really ro de Hijar, point in the courtyard one of the hotels, although of the Cercountry’s But as you can’t most cleavagethe clouds part phone homeisolated on it. and the itself, I of the Guadalhorc deep missing. realise what home e Valley green has alwaysreveals But don’t just take been tional governmen my word The Sierra t agrees. for it. Spain’s nato become de las Nieves is currently Malaga’s only the first on track third in Parts have Andalucia.national park….and 1989 and had natural its heartlandpark protection is a UNESCO since reserve biosphere but now its status is set to Largely soar. tourists, untouched by despite connection its s to the close it is a quick, coast, way to spend hassle-free The park’s a weekend. wealth biodiversity of , the celebrated including fir trees, Pinsaop populationsibex and otter , are key ponents comcoveted of its bid for the title. Approachin g this be new wouldal park kid on the nationblock, it go through is best mountain Tolox, back to door to range. If Coin this incredible Nieves, sits at the foot then Tolox of the Sierra At this time is the toenail. de las of the year, dimples green andburned into an the trees are auburn tres, there’swith the highestotherwise seamless peak at plenty to But with 2,000 mego resting eight municipalitround. a tough your head after ies to choose choice. long days from, One place walk can be the centre that is off the grid of authentic but With arab Spain is very much in tre of town,archways running Alozaina. it is a firm through reaching the At the topthe Moors were.reminder of how cenis the Iglesia farchurch De Santa the side.with a Romanesqu Ana, a small e tower ing at a Inside, three Catholic glued onto cross. After spending women sit starand a beer €3 on at Bar de bread, fried squid Barman Olivo, I felt Hector Santos will change good. tapas in mid-2018.if national thinks the whole park status area is granted

Full story on accused Carolina Lishman killer on page 4

Forget me not! Continues

Picardo hits out at Theresa May in Brexit blast

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THE new leader of the opposition has promised a radical overhaul to the education system in Gibraltar. In his first in depth interview since being elected GSD leader, Keith Azopardi told the Gibraltar Olive Press about his radical nine-point political plan. Azopardi - who beat Roy Clinton in Thursday’s leadership election - promised to get straight down to business. In particular with the education system. “Not enough is being done for non academic people,” he insisted. “We want more practical opportunities for our youth.” “It is a policy priority, not only to cater for academics but for non-academic youngsters.”

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Vol. 3

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Find out why Spain’s Guadalhorce valley could be the perfect winter getaway SEE PAGE 11

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Hard lessons for Azopardi

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Frontier

The Chief Minister said: “We can’t forget that thousands of people will need to be able to continue to freely cross the frontier between Gibraltar and Spain after Brexit — it’s not all about the border with Ireland! “The Gibraltar frontier affects families, tourists, businesses and workers. “It has to continue to work without Madrid or Brussels bureaucrats putting unnecessary obstacles in people's way to punish us for Brexit. “And this matters as much to Gibraltarians and Brits as it matters to Spaniards and other Europeans.” In the furious broadside,

he also took a pop at Spain, adding: “13,000 Spanish residents work in Gibraltar every day - and many kids come into Gibraltar for private schools here too! "We musn't let stale Spanish

or European politics get in their way." It comes after Prime Minister May came up with a breakthrough plan to allow Northern Ireland to remain in the EU, while the UK left,

as she met with EU negotiators in Brussels on Monday. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon insisted staying in the EU was the ‘right solution’ for Northern Ireland, but added that she saw ‘no

good practical reason’ why other regions couldn’t stay in. London mayor Sadiq Khan joined in, insisting there would be ‘huge ramifications for London’ if it could stay in the single market and customs union after Brexit. “Londoners overwhelmingly voted to remain in the EU and a similar deal here could protect tens of thousands of jobs.” Picardo agreed with the leaders, saying: “If differentiated solutions are a possibility, they should be a possibility for each of the relevant nations, Gibraltar included.” Some 96% of Gibraltarians voted Remain last year. Sadly the DUP and Northern Ireland assembly opposed the plan, putting a spanner in the works insisting the party had not been properly consulted. High level negotiations are set to continue all week.

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THE former Spanish foreign minister has claimed ‘Gibraltar may be Spanish in four years’. José Manuel García-Margallo made the claim during a private interview with members of the Andalucian Management Club. He believes a drop in living standards will occur when Gibraltar leaves the EU, making Gibraltarians more sympathet- ic to an allegiance switch. “This is an opportunity that we have not had since 1700 and the Treaty of Utrecht, since at the same time that the United Kingdom leaves the European Union, so does Gibraltar,” he said. “A bilateral negotiation must be established between Spain and Great Britain. “Staying outside the EU and not being able to access the European market would affect their standard of living, giving us the upper hand in any negotiations.”

CRIME

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Driving disability THE Ministry of Equality and Transport has organised disability awareness sessions for bus drivers to ensure appropriate customer services is provided

May missing?

SPANISH government sources have said that Theresa May has ‘more important’ issues than Gibraltar and the Rock risks ending up as a bargaining chip

Sam’s strategy THE Gibraltar Domestic Abuse Strategy is set to be launched in 2018 by Minister of Equality, Samantha Sacramento. It aims to eradicate domestic abuse in Gibraltar in all its forms

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Stories and features in this edition of Gibraltar’s original community newspaper

December 6th - December 19th 2017

Safety first

Schoolchildren unite to say no to domestic violence

SCHOOL children linked arms in a powerful protest against domestic violence. The students from three schools formed a heart shape to mark ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women’. The symbolic gesture at Victoria Stadium was a culmination of several weeks work at Bayside School, Westside School and Gibraltar College.

mantha Sacramento was delighted at the commitment shown by the students. “Our primary objectives are prevention through education, by teaching that such behaviour is unacceptable and by empowering individuals from an early age to stand up to abuse,” she said.

Awareness

BIG-HEARTED: Pupils form shape

The students also created art work aimed at ensuring young Gibraltarians

reject domestic violence in its every form. Minister of Equality, Sa-

“It is important to continue to raise awareness about the issue and it is important to work collectively to end all forms of violence, particularly against girls and women.”

Gibraltar lottery scam angers locals GIBRALTARIANS are furious after reports have emerged that tickets for the Gibraltar Government Lottery draw are being sold in La Linea. Individuals are buying the lottery tickets in bulk and then selling them for twice the price across the border. The lottery is intended to be solely for Gibraltarians. “It is very annoying that Gibraltarians cannot play our lottery because some people in another country are making a business out of it,” said Mabelle Imossi. “I hope the government either takes

IN TROUBLE: Xmas lottery

note and finds a solution or, for what it is worth, does away with the Gibraltar Government Lottery.”

The government has referred the matter to the police and Minister for Gaming, Albert Isola, is considering suspending agents who were involved in the aiding of the reselling tickets. He said: “The tradition of the Christmas Lottery has long been enjoyed by Gibraltarian families. We are most concerned that the reputation of the Lottery has been tarnished by these recent actions and, as a Government, we are determined that there should be no repetition of these offences in the future.”

Stabbing charge A GIBRALTARIAN, 31, has been charged with attempted murder after a violent attack near Bahia Bar on Waterport Road. Jensen Duarte was arrested after a fellow 44-yearold Gibraltarian was stabbed on November 22. The victim remains in a stable condition at St Bernard’s Hospital. Another man also involved in the indident has not so far been charged.

Fire wall THE government is to deploy police dogs on the border in an attempt to stop the importation of illegal fireworks from Spain. It comes as criminals are believed to be planning to import increased numbers of fireworks to sell for festive celebrations. Declaration forms have also been distributed to all tour operators so that visitors to the Rock are clear what they can and can’t bring in. Anyone planning a party has been advised to purchase British Standard approved fireworks that have been legally imported and available from licensed dealers.

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THE Gibraltar Olive Press is launching a new column which gives Gibraltarians an opportunity to express their opinions on everday matters. ‘Voices of Gibraltar’ will feature locals each fortnight discussing topics from Brexit to backgammon. Look out for familiar faces and who knows - you could be the star of our next edition!

CUTE: Harry and Meg

Royal flush PRINCE Harry and his new fiance Meghan Markle have carried out their first official public engagement together. The loved up pair looked enfatuated as they attended a World Aids Day charity fair in Nottingham, hosted by the Terrence Higgins Trust. Dominic Edwards from the Trust told the press that the charity was ‘thrilled’ the couple had chosen to attend their event.

Voices of Gibraltar

Kelvin Hewitt, 25, Official at HM Customs

"Life is pretty busy for me at the moment as I'm currently organising a cancer charity fashion show in Gibraltar for next month. It's rewarding though. Cancer is an awful thing, it affects all of us in Gibraltar and I want to raise money to help fight it. Also, we Gibraltarians love an opportunity to get dressed up!"

Nolan Frendo, Aaron Ignacio, Justin Pou, Tristan Tonna and Stuart Whitwell, musicians in Jetstream

Paul Cartwright, 51, Environment Protection Officer

"The whole world is our stage... Or maybe in this case a cave. "We had the privilege to perform at St Michael's Cave this year and it was one of the most memorable settings we've ever played in, and on home soil to boot! "Sometimes we take for granted the natural beauty that's right on our doorstep here in Gibraltar. "We're so busy with our day to day that we often forget how important it is to appreciate our surroundings and do what we really love to restore the balance."

Pope’s wingman

"Converting the Irish Soft Border into a Hard Border and toughening even further the Gibraltar Hard Border with Spain can only cause pain and anger amongst the citizens of both areas. "The economy, freedom of movement and social stability in both these sensitive geopolitical areas will tremendously suffer with Brexit. "Although Gibraltar, voted to overwhelmingly Remain by 96%, today’s ‘will of the Gibraltarian people’ has changed because of Article 24 from the Art.50 EU negotiating guidelines."

Gibraltarian holyman Mark Miles has been on a sensitive mission to Myanmar THE eyes of the world have been on local holyman Monsignor Mark Miles after he accompanied Pope Francis on an important visit to Myanmar. The Gibraltarian - who is the Pope’s official English translater - was spotted accompanying him on meetings with leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Miles, who has been de-

scribed as ‘mysterious’ and ‘cute’, translated Pope Francis’s request that Myanmar’s future depended on its ability to respect the rights of all of its ethnic groups. His comments came in the wake of a recent military crackdown on the Rohingya, a largely Muslim ethnic minority group. Miles’s British accent has

Support

“I think it really underlines his great support for HIV as a cause,” he said. The couple announced their engagement last Monday and are set to get married in Windsor Castle in May. Prince Harry has been dating actress Markle since October, 2016 after they were introduced by a mutual friend.

December 6th - December 19th 2017

OH LORD: Pope vists embattled Myanmar

WANTED

GOD’S WORK: Pope with Miles and Suu Kyi

been described as ‘dulcet and clean whereas the pope’s English is halting and gooey’. He goes almost everywhere with the Vatican chief and has been dubbed the Pope’s ‘wingman’ He works in the English section of the Vatican’s Secretariat of State and is fluent in Spanish. According to Rev. John Wauck, an American communications professor at the Pontifical Uni-

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versity of the Holy Cross in Rome, he language skills are perfect for the job. “This pope likes to speak off the cuff, even in places where few will understand his Spanish or Italian,” Wauck said. “In order to render those spontaneous remarks intelligible, a very good simultaneous translator is necessary, and he couldn’t have asked for a better one than Msgr. Miles.”

Loving it! LOVE Island’s Gabby Allen has been spotted getting some winter sun in time for Christmas on the beach in Marbella. The 24-year-old blonde beauty, who gained fame this summer after appearing on ITV’s Love Island, was seen frolicking in the waves in a bikini. The break comes amid claims that her relationship with beau Marcel is on the rocks after texts implied he had been unfaithful.

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Framed at last!

Ready to lead

THIS is the first picture of alleged murder suspect Real Lishman. The father-of-two has been remanded in custody after being charged with murder of his wife Carolina Lishman last month. The 42-year-old will now appear before a commital hearing at Gibraltar’s Supreme Court on December 15.

From front

over 60% of the vote. “It was particularly important to get a big majority from the executives – that’s a good sign.” The new leader also plans to focus on housing, healthcare and issues of land scarcity. But, he admitted that the results of any Brexit deal need to be seen before setting his policy. “I think our problem with Brexit is that they haven’t reached a stage where the Gibraltar issue is being considered,” he said. “The government is qualified to handle discussions with Number 10 and it is not my position to undermine this.

Praise

“However, I will call on the government over certain options. It is important that Gibraltar is fully considered, consulted and participates in the process.” Azopardi had nothing but praise for his rival, Clinton, who will stay on as shadow finance minister. Azopardi was keen to stress that in order to restore the GSD party to its former glories, there could be no time for infighting. “I want to work with Roy and my party colleagues, unite them and move forward,” he said, “Every leadership election is divisive, but we want to go beyond that. “I never had any doubt that if I was elected I would ask Roy to continue in his role… and he is the best person for that job.“He adds a lot of value to that portfolio.” Azopardi is now looking forward to spending time with his family over Christmas, a period when politics in Gibraltar traditionally takes a back seat. However, he plans to well and truly hit the ground running again come the New Year. “Long term, we are setting out our stall so that we can become the next government of Gibraltar,” he enthused.

December 6th - December 19th 2017

Tax haven battle The Rock should be labelled as a tax haven, claims Oxfam

GIBRALTAR has hit out at a charity’s recommendation that it should be included in the upcoming European Union tax haven blacklist. Oxfam claims Gibraltar falls foul of the EU’s own criteria, which includes tax transparency and policies that simulate large-scale ‘profit shifting’, if it was outside the union. An official 24-page report by Oxfam claims that Gibraltar should also be included on an official blacklist, alongside the Cayman Islands and Bermuda, and claims that it is only due to pressure from the UK that it has so far not

been. “Our report shows what a robust blacklist of tax havens would look like if the EU were to objectively apply their own criteria, free from political pressure,” said Aurore Chardonnet, Oxfam’s EU policy advisor on inequality and tax. “However, the blacklisting process has been surrounded by secrecy, putting citizens in the dark and leaving tax havens free to use their political and economic leverage to get themselves off the list.” The Gibraltarian government refuted Oxfam’s

claims, arguing that it had implemented all EU antiBEPS policy. BEPS refers to ‘base erosion and profit shifting’, whereby companies can exploit gaps in tax rules by artificially shifting their headquarters to low or no-tax locations in order to maximise profits. The government also invited Oxfam’s representatives for a meeting in order to keep the charity updated with steps it was taken to increase financial transparency. The European Union has yet to announce penalties for territories listed on the blacklist.

The perfect gift COMPANIES, clubs and individuals are being encouraged to dig deep for underprivileged children in the Campo this Christmas. Hogar Betania is looking for Christmas present donations for local families, who are among the poorest in Spain. The charity, which runs a homeless shelter for vulnerable Spaniards, Gibraltarians and expats, as well as refugees, wants toys for children between one and 12 years old. “The campaign is to help families with children in dire poverty in La Linea,” Carmen Moya Langston of Hogar Betania told the Gibraltar Olive Press.“We also have several other projects including the hot food service, the sponsorship of children with reading glasses and dentistry and the summer camp.” “It is a place open to everyone, men, women and children. “It is a place that offers people shelter and company but also offers people hope.” The toys will be distributed on January 5 in La Linea in a special event involving the Three Kings.

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December 6th - December 19th 2017

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December 6th - December 19th 2017

OLIVE PRESS CHEAP

The Rock’s only investigative

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A campaigning, community newspaper, the Gibraltar Olive Press represents the local and expatriate communities working or living on the Rock with 10,000 copies distributed fortnightly.

OPINION

Keeping pace ‘You gotta fight for your right (to party)’ said the American hip hop group Beastie Boys. And with Brexit negotiations stuck in the mud, Gibraltarians certainly have to fight for their right to remain in the EU, even if there is no party to go to. Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon says it is the ‘right solution’ for Northern Ireland to stay in the EU but it is also right for Gibraltar to stay. Our nation’s history is just as interesting as Ireland’s and the Rock has to be heard if it wants to avoid being used as a bargaining chip. Recent altercations with fishing vessels mean Gibraltar is in daily, direct contact with the EU and it is a thorny issue not just in historical terms but also the Rock’s day-today functioning. Gibraltar has a bright future, cryptocurrencies are just one example of this, but to ensure we keep adapting we have to fight for British rights so we don’t part ways.

A lack of pilots, too much competition and the advent of Brexit... is the future of budget air in jeopardy? Investigates Jo Chipchase

Flying to the

HIS year has been inauspicious year for low-cost flights. The October 2 collapse of Monarch Airlines required the biggest ever peacetime repatriation exercise to return 100,000 Brits who were stranded overseas. A further 300,000 people lost their bookings. After struggling financially for over a year, Monarch was unable to renew its ATOL license - a legal requirement to fly. Rumours are circulating that Norwegian has similar problems and may go bust this winter. The airline recently withdrew all flights between Birmingham and Spanish airports, citing, oddly, poor demand as its reason. Meanwhile, Ryanair has its ongoing pilot hours crisis. After making serious errors with its pilot holiday planning, the airline cancelled 50 flights a day from mid-September to the end of October and then a further 18,000 flights between November 2017 and March 2018, affecting 400,000 passengers. The Civil Aviation Authority has launched action against Ryanair for “persistently misleading passengers” about their rights. Refunds or re-bookings can be a thorny issue. Many customers of collapsed Monarch say they have received refunds from their banks but others haven’t been so lucky. Glenys Mason Cuming, a resident of Alicante, told the Olive Press: “We booked flights to the UK from Spain with Monarch for Christmas. We used our Spanish debit card and spent €288, which we have seemingly lost.” Meanwhile Pam Amos, from Tenerife, has seen her plans grounded: “My family booked with Monarch to visit me in October. I missed out on a family reunion and seeing my seven-year old grandson. Now I hear that Norwegian has stopped flying to Birmingham Airport, leaving me with less choice for trips from Tenerife to home.” Although passengers are unhappy when airlines withdraw their services, cancelling flights and abandoning airports is hardly a new trick. In the days before BA and Easyjet contracted to fly out of Granada Airport, Ryanair was criticised for withdrawing its Granada-Gatwick route in 2010 in a row over subsidies paid by the Diputación de Granada. The same route had previously been pulled by Monarch Airlines in 2007 for similar ♦♦ Spain benefits more than ‘commercial reasons’. any other EU state from When airlines pull out of regional airports – as flights to the UK was also the case in Jerez de la Frontera in ♦♦ Over 3,400 scheduled 2011, when Vueling decided to withdraw – the flights per week take off, local tourist industry and property prices can plus many more charter take a direct hit. People who have invested in holiday homes can suddenly find their properservices ties harder to reach and, accordingly, more dif♦♦ 21% of Spain’s internaficult to rent to holidaymakers and to sell. The tional visitors are from end result is that they lose money. the UK Martino Matijevic, founder of cheap flight search site, Whichbudget.com, comments: “Ryanair is famous for playing the cost game. It picks lesserknown destinations that aren’t on the tourist radar and need investment. It asks the airports if negated. It reverts to nothing. to offer slots, gets the destination to subsidise Martino points out the difficulty in forecasting the flights and promises them thousands of new the Brexit impact. Nobody knows how it will pan visitors. But when the external financial support out – not least Theresa May and her cabinet. dries out, Ryanair simply leaves the passengers He says: “At the time of the referendum, there with their second homes abroad and no flights. wasn’t any difference in search patterns on Hiking up fares to cover the shortfall would ruin Whichbudget.com and our user statistics aren’t their business model.” showing any difference today. He adds: “When you see a It is hard to make predictions.” flight for €10 you have to reEasyjet has reacted to Brexit When you see alise this is unsustainable and by opening a new European someone has to pay the differHQ in Austria and launching flights for €10 ence. Ryanair’s entire corpoa new airline, Easyjet Europe, you have to rate philosophy is built on this headquartered in Vienna. Now short-term pricing model. It is operational, this has enabled realise this is driven by subsidies and isn’t an EasyJet to obtain an Air Operaeconomic reality.” tor’s Certificate (AOC) from Ausunsustainable Another issue looming over tria’s regulator so it can conthe low-cost airline industry tinue to operate flights within is Brexit. Michael Barnier, the the EU, regardless of whether a EU’s chief negotiator, has pointed out that a no-deal Brexit occurs. ‘no deal’ scenario would have ‘consequences’, And last month, the airline announced an inincluding ‘the capacity of British planes to land crease in the number of seats to Gibraltar this in Europe’. Open Skies, a bi-lateral agreement winter by more than three thousand, to take up governing flights between the UK and the EU, the slack left by Monarch. doesn’t revert to World Trade Organisation rules The extra capacity comes from upgrades to

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2012 - 2017

Named the best English language publication in Andalucia by the Rough Guides group.

♦♦

♦♦ ♦♦

Over 40% of passengers in Europe fly with low cost companies. In Spain that number reaches 50% Aviation is a vital part of Spain’s tourist industry (around 5% of GDP). UK-Spain aviation alone is worth at least €27bn

its aircraft at both Gatwick and Bristol from 156-seaters to 186-passenger planes. Minister for Tourism, Gilbert Licudi, said the move ‘demonstrates Easyjet’s commitment to Gibraltar’. Michael O’Leary of Ryanair, meanwhile, foresees a period of industry consolidation, resulting in the survival of the British Airways group (IAG), Lufthansa, Air France-KLM and ‘possibly Easyjet’. John Moffett, vice chair of Bremain in Spain (www.bremaininspain.com), a group campaigning for the rights of British citizens in Spain, is an ex-BA manager. He says: “A no-deal, cliff edge scenario could cast into chaos the travel plans of people wanting to fly between the UK, US and EU by invalidating the Open Skies agreement - potentially with nothing to replace it. However, we are hoping for a no-Brexit, not a no-deal.” He adds: “A hard Brexit could find BA flights grounded if there’s no aviation deal. The UK would have to renegotiate old aviation treaties, such as Bermuda Two, which was a predecessor to Open Skies. However, this would take time and considerable effort.” IAG takes a positive tone: “We’re confident that a comprehensive air transport agreement be-

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My flightmare diaries

HAVE flown around the world from Moscow to Mauritius and from Uganda to the United Arab Emirates with very little hassle. But to mark our wedding anniversary, we decided to stay closer to home and picked our favourite island - magical Mallorca where we had lived when I was editor of the Majorca Daily Bulletin. We booked a return flight to Palma with Ryanair, but only a few days before we were due to fly came the dramatic news ... they didn't have enough pilots! The threat of cancellations because of pilot shortages stopped us in our tracks. We had been dropped in at the last minute by this airline many times before, so we did not want to take any chances. We forked out more cash and booked another single flight with easyJet. No problems with that flight and we had a lovely anniversary visiting our old haunts in Palma, Illetas and Palma Nova. But then on our very last day came the bolt from the blue. As we were packing late in the afternoon ready for the next morning's flight back to Newcastle, we got a text from Ryanair – your flight has been cancelled! Because of the French Air Traffic Control strike we were left high and dry. That night we desperately tried to get a flight back to the UK, but to no avail. So next morning - Tuesday Oct 10 - we decided to hop on our pre-booked 5am shuttle to try pot luck at Palma airport. It was absolute chaos. Some of our fellow passengers were told that Ryanair could help them - they could catch a

Globetrotting journalist David Anderson on his recent Spanish holiday flight nightmare and the highs and lows of grabbing a cheapie from Newcastle flight to MILAN, stay over, then catch a – remember we'd been at the airport flight to EDINBURGH. since 6am! We did not fancy that after trailing Then when we were due to board came round many airline desks It seemed the bombshell – the flight had been a mission impossible to get home on cancelled – our second in 24 hours! the day of the Why did the strike. Spanish compaBut just as we ny sell us tickets had given up all at the airport in hope, Spanish the first place airline Vueling on the very day came to our resof the strike cue – they could knowing that get us back to the plane would Cardiff that afalmost certainly ternoon. It was never take off? quite a way from Angry passenNewcastle, but gers - some at least we'd be were parents back on British with babes in soil. arms - were We paid 189.98 then told to euros for the collect their 15.45 flight, luggage and go then paid 85 to the Vueling pounds to stay desk where we overnight in a waited for anUNIMPRESSED: David Anderson Cardiff hotel other two hours and 48 pounds for new flight infor the coach travel home the next day. formation, but still could not get a flight What a relief. But we waited and wait- home. ed, our take off time suddenly vanished, The earliest and nearest flight to home then were told that our afternoon flight was Thursday morning (Oct 12) Palma had been delayed until 20.00 hours to Barcelona then Barcelona to Man-

tween the EU and the UK will be reached. It’s in the UK and Europe’s interest to have a fully liberalised aviation agreement.” Easyjet concurs: “We believe a UK-EU aviation agreement is needed and should be a priority for the next stage of the negotiations. We are confident there will be a new agreement. Aviation is essential to all the economies of Europe as an enabler of trade, tourism and travel.”

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Javier Gándara, Easyjet’s country director for Spain, said at the recent Brexit, Tourism and Aviation conference in Madrid that a future without flights between the UK and EU is ‘inconceivable’. Overall, the future of low-cost air travel does not seem endangered. Easyjet insists that it is ‘here to stay’. However, nobody has as crystal ball. With some short-haul routes proving unprofit-

chester at 13.25 - a five-hour wait! We then queued up yet again to find out which hotel we would go to and the company laid on a bus for the hour-long drive to Porto Petro, where we stayed for two nights. The company promised us an early morning pick up back to Palma airport on the Thursday - fair enough. But no information was sent to our hotel about the return pick up and all attempts to get in touch with Vueling failed. We anxiously waited through the night for a call from the company - other airlines had posted pick-up messages for their customers - but ours never came. So at three in the morning we decided to go it alone and make our own way back to the airport by taxi, which cost us 79.15 euros. The flight to Barcelona was on time then we had the five hour wait for the Manchester plane. Then it was another long wait in Manchester coach station for the bus back to the North East. Ryanair eventually refunded our flight money, but Vueling said the strike was out of their hands. We lost more than 200 euros, what with hotel and coach bookings, taxi and airport food. After complaining several times, the company reluctantly sent us 60 euros which hardly paid for the taxi fare! However, I must be a glutton for punishment. This week - December 5 - we're due to fly to Malaga .... and believe it or not, there's a threat of an airport strike that day! So my reign in Spain relies mainly on the plane . . . if it turns up.

able without subsidies, Brexit being an unknown factor and GBP/EUR exchange rates remaining unpredictable, carriers will surely continue to examine their bottom lines and may choose to abandon certain routes. So, while the industry seems stable, passengers should be aware that individual flights they book could potentially disappear into thin air.

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LE T T E R S

December 6th - December 19th 2017

Brexit contingency

Dear GOP.

While visiting Gibraltar in November I picked up the current copy of the Olive Press (Issue 58). I was very surprised to read on the front page the comments made by Romford MP Andrew Rosindell regarding the Catalan saga. He obviously is unaware that Catalunya is an autonomous region and as such is PART of Spain and therefore part of the Spanish Constitution. Our readers react to the news that the He is obviously unaware too that the Catalunyan ParEU is drawing up alternative plans for liament authorised an ILLEGAL referendum and ILLEGALLY declared independence. Gibraltar in case Brexit talks collapse He states it’s for the Catalan people to determine what constitutional status they want. As an MP he should know more than anyone if the Catalans want to change Quick exit EU’s Fault the constitution then they should have been pressuring the Catalan parliament. Please let’s just get out of this corrupt mess. Not in Blame the EU - they want freedom of movement for Finally he insists that ‘Madrid should take heed of everyone who isn’t European but are economic miour name! referendums instead of bludgeoning the people and Gordon Reid, Gibraltar grants. What about those who fought for freedom? bullying them into submission’. Strong words from Mr.Rosindell. Trustworthy Theresa John Frendo, Gibraltar The Spanish Police and Guardia Civil acted to preAt Hedgehog Security vent the ILLEGAL referendum and because the Mos-we work I know with Theresabusinesses May gets a lot of stick but she is a ca- Clear Irregularities sos Esquadros (Catalunya reer politician and I do believe she knows what she is ofdidall sizes that want to reduce their to to Gibraltar. Keep The UK has a soft border with the non-EU Isle of Man Police), stood by and doing and thisexposure has to be extended nothing. He should also but a hard border between Spain and Gibraltar. How the faith! remember that less both than external and internal threats. does that work? The whole process is a mess. 50% of Catalans actually Annie Levensmithe, Sussex Victor Alderson, Edinburgh voted in the referendum. We provide a wide range ofUnforgivable cyber security services, It is clear then that Unfair treatment Mr.Rosindell knows little from penetration tests to vulnerability assessments The EU won’t forgive us for what weand have done. We about the democracy he are British and we have chosen to leave. Any contin- Don’t forget about us in Gibraltar is Northern Ireland is challenging despite beour new managed service -gency Continual plan wouldCyber still notAssurance. be in our favour, Barnier remains in the EU. Just as Northern Ireland voted ing in a position of powcan’t be trusted and it would be for the total benefit to remain in the EU, so did we. We deserve the same er. treatment but we have Spain waiting to pounce. of them, not us. Regards, Manolo Garcia, Gibraltar Stephanie Melenendez, Bristol R.G.Waugh,

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Has anything in this week’s Gibraltar Olive Press? Have your say on the matter by emailing Get in touch today to find outpiqued howyourtointerest letters@theolivepress.es or alternatively message us on OFFENDING STORY: ISSUE 58 Facebook at www.facebook.com/GibraltarOlivePress or Twitter @olivepress avoid becoming the next headline:

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Breach!

T seems that every day there’s another story about a data breach, with innocent people the world over having their personal information released online – so would you know what to do if you were a victim? This is the time of year where you need to be more aware and tech-savvy than ever as opportunists are ready to take any chance they get but if you are unlucky enough to be a victim of a data breach or a hack, what should you do next? Determine what was stolen When it comes to a data breach your data falls into three different categories; Least sensitive – your name and address, which alone won’t cause much of a problem, after all the same information was printed in good old telephone books. More sensitive – e-mail addresses, date of birth and credit/debit card numbers, which can result in spam and fraudulent charges. Most sensitive – credit/debit card security codes and online banking passwords, which could result in large-scale theft. Call the relevant people If your payment information has been compromised, call your bank immediately to limit your liability for fraud. They will not only flag the fraud risk on your account, which will alert them to any suspicious activity but they’ll also cancel your cards, making the fraudster’s information useless. Contact the credit report agencies to prevent any future fraud. Alert the three main agencies; Call Credit, Experian and Equifax who will add a fraud alert to your account which will ensure credit isn’t fraudulently taken out in your name. Alerting the credit agencies will also prevent any future attacks, relating to this incident, from affecting your credit ratings. If you are sure you have been the victim of fraud then contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit the Action Fraud website. Change your passwords As soon as you discover your information has been compromised it is essential to change your

What do you do if you’re the victim of a data breach?

password. If you are like millions of other people in the UK it’s unlikely you use a different password for every different account you have, so it might be worth changing all accounts which use that password just in case. But learn your lesson and keep them completely separate moving forward. If you don’t think you’re going to remember separate passwords for all your different accounts, it’s worth investing in a password manager. Chase it up Make sure you complain to the company involved in the data breach, not least so they are aware – in some cases, they only know there’s a problem when someone tells them about it. It’s also important that they know the distress caused as well as any financial losses incurred – all which can be reclaimed as part of a compensation settlement. You should also put in a formal complaint to the Information Commissions Office (ICO) who will be able to confirm that the Data Protection Act was breached. If you cannot agree on a settlement and the ICO back your claim then you should consider taking the company responsible for the data breach to a small claims court. Be vigilant Following any kind of data breach, or a suspected one, you should always remain vigilant because an attack is not always imminent. Sometimes hackers can keep hold of the data and strike when people least expect. Regular checks of your bank account and credit score will flag up any potential problems but if you do spot anything suspicious contact your bank and Action Fraud immediately. Hedgehog Security is here to help Hedgehog is a full service Cyber Security firm providing penetration test and cyber security consultancy to firms in Gibraltar and southern Spain. For more information please contact Peter on +350 2000 8022 or email peter@ hedgehogsecurity.gi.

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olivepress

la cultura campo

December 6th - December 19th 2017

olivepressnews

Do you have a what’s on?

December 6th - December 19th 2017

what’s on

Radiohead gibraltar

Bach in business

NEW year on the Rock is set A COLLECTION of Gibraltar’s to be rung in with a pair of finest artists will be showcasing their work at this year’s Afstellar classical concerts. Featuring The European fordable Art Show at the Fine Sinfonietta, the first concert Arts Gallery in Casemates. will take place for children at The event, now in it’s fourth 5:30pm at John Mackintosh year, offers the public a chance to buy a range of art at an afHall Theatre on January The4.Olive Press A later performance for adults fordable price with a maximum cost set at £1,000. will take place at 8:30pm. TOP for news in Spain! Hosted by The Fine Arts AsThe Minister for Culture Steven Linares said: “We are very sociation, the exhibition will proud to host the New Year’s only be showing work from its concerts for the whole family members. Gibraltarian Lorraine Buhato enjoy together. “This year the focus is on en- giar, 57, specialises in watertertaining our children and colour and most of her work introducing a new generation will cost under £100. to the beauty and wonder of “Making it accessible to the public is essential because a classical music.” Tickets for the children's con- lot of people feel artwork is cert are free and can be col- out of their reach,” she told the Gibraltar Olive Press. lected from City Hall. However, tickets for the eve- “I would say I’m quite an inexning performance are £20 pensive artist.” and can be bought from Self taught artist Michele StagSacarello’s Coffee Shop in netto, 59, thinks ‘more can be done’ to educate Gibraltarians Irish Town. about the value of art.

hristmas Flower Exhibition - December 7&8

throughout its history. From the war years, not as the GBC, but as Radio Gibraltar and the Ministry of Information. “It is always evolving, which is very difficult in a small place.” Mayor Kaiane Aldorino Lopez introduced Valarino at the event and said the book is ‘a gift to the people of Gibraltar’. The book is available at the Gibraltar Heritage Trust, priced at £15.00 and all proceeds go to the GBC Open Day Trust.

Every little helps

Gibraltar’s artists will be selling their work at special affordable event

WATERCOLOUR: Buhagiar

“Getting exhibitions and original art to Gibraltar will help bring it up to speed and an event like this helps with that,” she said. Stagnetto, who is a member of the Association’s committee, specialises in original prints, hoping to sell each one for £25. Secretary of the Association, Meribel Matthews, agrees and said the aim of the show was to ‘educate the public about

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NEW book exploring the history of Radio GiBE ‘APPY! Abraltar has been released. Author George Valarino, who spent 40 years working for the radio broadcaster, has described his experiences in his book This is Gibraltar. Valarino has described the work as a ‘labour of love’ which charts the history of the radio station. Download our app nowSpeaking and at the launch at City Hall, Valabegin enjoying the bestrino Spanish said: “GBC radio television has evolved news on the go.

art’. “Art is a luxury, something that is not at the top of your list when you go shopping,” she said. The 75-year-old, who recently had her work valued at Agora Gallery in New York for £4,000 a piece, says Christmas is the perfect time for everyone to buy affordable artwork. The event will be held on December 11 at 6:30pm.

GIBRALTAR Horitcultural Society will present the entries from its annual competition in categories including Wreaths and Dining Table Centrepiece. Entry is free at the John Mackintosh Hall Gallery between 9.30am and 9.30pm.

raft & Collectors Fair - December 9

A VARIETY of stalls at St Andrew’s Church will offer beautiful hand-crafted items for sale which could make perfect Christmas gifts. Entrance costs just £1 and includes mulled wine and a mince pie.

arols by Candlelight - December 14

JOIN the Gibraltar National Choir to sing a collection of your favourite Christmas carols at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. Tickets are priced at £12 on the door and singing will commence at 8pm.

L A C U LT U R A

London calling

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CAPTURED: Personalities of his subjects

December 6th - December 19th 2017

MUST SEE: Hockney’s exhibition in Spain will run until February 25

The celebrated artist’s most intimate portrature collection hits Spain

E is perhaps Britain’s great- cesful landscape show at the same est living artist with works museum in 2012. known the The 80-year-old world over Bradford-born artist, that fetch millions known for his bright, Hockney is able pop art palette, ofat auction. Now an amazing fers a snapshot of life to flaunt his new collection in California. showcasing David perpetual talent David Hockney: 82 Hockney’s portraiportraits and a still in capturing ture from his Calilife will focus on the fornia studio in Los artist’s relationships personality Angeles is here in with friends, family Spain. and acquaintances. The exhibition His figures range will be shown at the famous Gug- from billionaire philanthropist Jagenheim Museum, in Bilbao, and cob Rothschild to the man who follows hot-on-the-heels of his suc- washes his car.

Hockney also diligently painted the architect of the Guggenheim, Frank Gehry. The subjects were asked to sit still on the same chair for up to seven hours a day, three days in a row, under intense lighting. The results are striking. Hockney is able to flaunt his perpetual talent in capturing the personality of his subjects in clothes they feel comfortable in, to reflect the broad and varied styles of modern day America. The exhibition runs until February 25, and purchasing online is advised to miss the queues. Tickets cost €10 for adults, €6 for students, and under 12s get in free.

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All about Vol. 3

Issue 59

December 6th - December 19th 2017

uadalhorce

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STUNNING: Alhaurin and (left) Yunquera in front of the soon-to-be declared National Park

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… but the peerless peaks of the Sierra de las Nieves could make you late for dinner, writes Jed Neill

Ye Ole’ Butchery

11 11

INDING a red telephone box (below) at the top of a Spanish mountain peak makes you question whether you really left home at all. It’s a talking point in the courtyard of the Cerro de Hijar, one of the country’s most isolated hotels, although you can’t phone home on it. But as the clouds part and the deep green cleavage of the Guadalhorce Valley reveals itself, I realise what home has always been missing. But don’t just take my word for it. Spain’s national government agrees. The Sierra de las Nieves is currently on track to become Malaga’s first national park….and only the third in Andalucia. Parts have had natural park protection since 1989 and its heartland is a UNESCO biosphere reserve but now its status is set to soar. Largely untouched by tourists, despite its close connections to the coast, it is a quick, hassle-free way to spend a weekend. The park’s wealth of biodiversity, including the celebrated Pinsaop fir trees, ibex and otter populations, are key components of its bid for the coveted title. Approaching this wouldbe new kid on the national park block, it is best to go through Tolox, back door to this incredible mountain range. If Coin sits at the foot of the Sierra de las Nieves, then Tolox is the toenail. At this time of the year, the trees are auburn dimples burned into an otherwise seamless green and with the highest peak at 2,000 metres, there’s plenty to go round. But with eight municipalities to choose from, resting your head after long days walk can be a tough choice. One place that is off the grid but very much in the centre of authentic Spain is Alozaina. With arab archways running through the centre of town, it is a firm reminder of how farreaching the Moors were. At the top is the Iglesia De Santa Ana, a small church with a Romanesque tower glued onto the side. Inside, three Catholic women sit staring at a cross. After spending €3 on bread, fried squid tapas and a beer at Bar de Olivo, I felt good. Barman Hector Santos thinks the whole area will change if national park status is granted in mid-2018. Continues on Page 11

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December 6th - December 19th 2017

uadalhorce Valley

From Page 12

“Yes, because it becomes something else, with another name,” he says. “I think it will be good thing if everyone respects the culture, the park, the rural environment, and I hope the younger generation look after it.” The 22-year-old is studying for a Bachelor in Philosophy on an Open University course and says the town's population is shrinking.

Flea

“Ten years ago we had 2,500 people here, now it’s much less. Three or four years ago there were only three births here.” Coin, the unassuming and quintessentially Andalucian capital of the Guadalhorce Valley has been a cultural centre since the Romans. Its Sunday and the flea market is in full swing in the carpark of La Trocha, a giant commercial centre. Stalls are selling everything from wooden toilet seats and portable heaters to spices, leathers, ceramics, silverware and cut glass. In a hoarder’s paradise it’s either move or be moved as I bounce off the streams of people zig-zagging from one stall to another. Reaching the end of the carpark I come across a stall selling antique cameras. Carlos Diez, who runs it, says: “Antiques are like fashion. People only buy them when they become hot stuff.” The 49-year-old has done a string of

Valley life

CASTLES AND CUSTOMS: A fiesta in Casarabanela and an old fort in Yunquera

odd jobs and buys the antiques in auction in London and then transports them down to Spain.

As I speak to him he’s shouting ‘No that’s 25. Yea ok, well we can do 30 but that’s it.’

“This is great in the winter, always busy. I go to about three or four markets a week but I’d say the best is

probably Saturday in Fuengirola. That’s a great market.” Indeed, the Romans set up Coin

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December 6th - December 19th 2017

Of NATIONAL attraction

as the market town Lacibis and would be proud that trade is still brisk today. Coin was also a transition point for the minerals being quarried five kilometres to the south in Sierra Blanca. Marble from these quarries was used to construct the amazing Roman town of Italica, near Sevilla, the birthplace of the mighty Emperor Hadrian in 76AD. But like many parts of Spain, Coin fell to the Moors in the 900s before being reconquered by the Christians in the late 15th century. The city buckled under the pressure of a siege in which, according to legend, the great New World explorer Christopher Columbus took part. Take a ride out of Coin, heading south, and you reach another new world: the Barranco Blanco (White Ravine). A photographer's favourite, the

Andalucia’s own ‘bread basket

HE Sierra de las Nieves, if chosen, will be Malaga’s first national park and the third in Andalucia. The mountain range east of Ronda contains some incredible karst formations and these natural skyscrapers have been bringing tourists back year after year. Parts have had natural park protection since 1989 and it is currently a Unesco Biosphere Reserve but if talks prove successful then the park will become one ‘big kings walkway’. With Spanish fir, ibex and otter populations there are more animals than there are trees. And with most tourists flocking to the Caminito del Rey, you can be confident that the mountains will be yours for the day. National Park status could be in place by mid-2018 so start booking soon if you want to be among the first to enjoy it.

foothills are teeming with wildlife – including wild boar – and its aquamarine waters end in a magical waterfall. Even the Nazi’s succumbed to the area’s enduring charm and you can still see a white building as you arrive that was used as a sentry point. HISTORIC: It is a reminder of the area’s alleged use as a Nazi holiday camp Everywhere during WW2, due to the affiliation around the between Hitler and Franco. valley you But it you’re looking to escape the will find historical past, bring some proper evidence of shoes as it can be slippery walking the Moors upriver. If you have more adventurous tenand the dencies there’s the Caminito del Romans Rey, a huge hit with thrill seekers. Once dubbed ‘the world’s deadliest walkway, and with 1,000 visitors a day, this high-adrenalin hike above the El Chorro gorge, is in high demand.

THE Guadalhorce Valley is 804km2 in size, and home to around 150,000 permanent residents, while many more own second homes there. It has always been known for its citrus production, with orange and lemon plantations stretching out in every direction from the valley’s towns. Of the eight municipalities, Coin is the biggest. But towns such as Alhaurin El Grande, Alora and Cartama are also immensely popular with expats. While first colonised by the Romans, it was the Moors who have had the largest influence on the area. Everywhere there is evidence of their work, which tamed the tumbling streams into irrigation systems and brought fertility to the whole of the valley. But while the region has been termed one of the bread-baskets of Andalucia

It was recently praised as a ‘shining example’ of a sustainable tourist attraction. Director of tourism for the Costa del Sol, Arturo Bernal, said thousands have visited the site this year, while ‘last winter saw visitors of 84 different nationalities flock from five different continents’. Emerging at the other end of the Caminito in Ardales, you’ll be hardpressed to get in your car and leave. Often called Andalucia’s Lake District, with turquoise waters surrounding tree-lined islands, its easy to see why. The scenery is more akin to the cantons of Switzerland than anything found on the Costa del Sol. With so many distractions in this modern age, a weekend spent gorging on this valley’s stunning scenery will never go amiss and as the coast winds down for Christmas it’s the perfect excuse to grab some me-time before the celebrations begin. since Roman times, the locals have long In fact you may struggled with fluctuating rainfall, which want to call home can still bring devastating floods to the and say you’ll be whole of the valley or leave the land late for dinner. parched for months on end.

DECADE OF SUCCESS: For John and Debbie

Paper mountain THEY have certainly seen a fair few changes over the last decade. Not just surviving the biggest ever recession in Spanish history, they have seen a complete revolution in the newspaper business. Yet, Papeleria Cristina is not only still very much in business, but it has become one of the best established expat businesses in the Guadalhorce Valley. Cleverly going with the times, its friendly owners Debbie and John Gow, have introduced numerous other lines than just newspapers for sale. The shop in the heart of Alhaurin el Grande has PO Boxes, all sorts of greetings cards, party supplies and sweets. “We had no idea we would end up running the place for so long,” explains John, a former civil servant, at the Department of Work and Pensions, in Liverpool. “We literally decided to get married and moved six months later for a fresh start,” added Debbie, whose mum was living here. “We were looking for a business and this looked ideal.” While John works shift work at the British consulate in Malaga, Debbie works around the clock dealing with a mountain of customers, who usually stop for a chat.

14 14 14

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Students from all over Europe come to Andalucia’s poshest Pet establishment to learn how to groom, writes Jon Clarke

HEY come from as far as Cyprus, Italy & Iceland to learn how to groom and clip dogs by Rachel Goutorbe. With an international reputation spanning two decades, it is perhaps little surprise. The Grooming Salon and Groomers training centre is fully equipped and caters for all breeds and crossbreeds as well as cats; the pets relish getting groomed here. Courses to learn how to groom last two to three weeks and some cours- e s also take in first aid, canine massage and how to make your own grooming products. The thriving business Posh Pets Spain, which Rachel runs with husband Les, literally treats its guests - that is, its pampered pooches and cats - better than half the hotels in the region. The fortunate pets who come to stay, come from as far as Nerja and Gibraltar, they even have clients that fly their pets down from Madrid and Barcelona for their summer holidays. “They absolutely love it, running around socialising together in the purpose made Pet Sensory Garden, all tails wagging,” explains Rachel, who has been running her upmarket

December 6th - December 19th 2017

uadalhorce Valley

December 6th - December 19th 2017

More than a dog’s life!

CAPTION: Illuptam atio que magnis excea suntia

CAPTION: establishment since 2004. “Many of the dogs are ex-rescue dogs and you can see how they unwind and relax there". The sensory garden particularly helps to build up their confidence as well as to tantalise all their senses, plus it helps them to interact with their surroundings and provide physical and mental challeng-

es to help enrich their lives.” With a herb garden aimed for dogs and a digging sandpit with treats hidden in it… could there be a pet hotel in Spain quite as posh? The Pet Sensory Garden/Playground sits in a half acre grove of mature citrus trees and is a riot of smells and colours. Cleverly thought out, there is a big range of self-medicating plants such as valerian, often selected by anxious dogs for its calming effect, and marigolds, often

selected by animals that are experiencing grief or emotional stress. Then there is lavender to encourage scar tissue regeneration, wheat grass for animals that are nervous, as well as peppermint which is good for its cooling properties and often selected by animals with skin irritations. It can also be used as an aid for training. The garden also boasts a water feature, a wendy house,wind chimes, sundecks, illusion mirrors and crazy daisies, which

spray the dogs with water, keeping them cool in summer. The fantastic adjacent dog hotel has its kennel chalets named after Coronation Street characters and each comes with its own pink sun bed & toy box. Aside to this there is a spacious boutique cattery at the far end of the orchard boasting large individual rooms complete with climbing frames, cat trees, toys and " soothing pet music" playing all day. Each cat room has a 360 degree view. “Our grounds are fully secure with CCTV and we live on site so there is total peace of mind,” continues Rachel. Regularly photos of the pets on their holiday are posted on the Facebook page POSH PETS SPAIN. Clients pets can be picked up by a licensed Pet Pick-up service too. On top of this the company runs a fully licensed pet transportation service POSH PETS TRAVEL to and from the UK and Europe and has a small shop selling goodies such as natural treats, a range of Doggy Ice Cream in the summer and Natural Raw Dog Food. Visit www.poshpetsspain.com for more info or call 952 597 035

Posh Pets Spain Dog & Cat Grooming Salon Boutique Dog Hotel & Cattery Pet Grooming Courses Pet Transportation Shop tel: 0034 952 597 035 www.poshpetsspain.com Follow us on Facebook ‘Posh Pets Spain’

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OlivePressNewspaper olivepress olivepressnews +TheolivepressEs

BE ‘APPY! MOVING: Barclays

Bye bye Barclays

Property December 6th - December 19th 2017

Property

Don’t miss December 6th - December 19th 2017 www.theolivepress.es

olive press

www.theolivepress.es

our bi-monthly Property magazine out in January

PAGE III

15 15

Tivoli world makeover

PAGE V

A dedicated Spanish architect has spent more than 30 years turning a rundown cement factory into his perfect home and office space

Page XI

BAD PRACTICE

T is a practice that most property professionals had hoped was a thing of the past. But Olive Press Property can reveal that the ethically questionable practice of charging buyers as well as sellers is rearing its head again on the Costa del Sol. According to sources, at least two agents in the Marbella area have recently stung their buyers with bills of up to 5%. The so called ‘finder’s fees’ are in addition from taking commission from the seller. “It’s disgusting,” said Terra Meridiana’s Adam Neale, “I have nothing wrong with finder’s fees if you agree it with the client beforehand, but I have heard from several buyers that certain agents are adding a 5% fee with no prior warning. “It’s bad ethics and gives agents on the Costa del Sol a bad name.” Mike Smith, Chairman of Marbella-based First Choice Spain, agreed that charging potential buyers such fees was ‘ob-

EXCLUSIVE: Agents unite as some ‘bad apples’ are slapping finders fees on buyers without warning

scene’, especially when you consider they already have very high purchase taxes which are often in excess of 10%. “We as agents are paid by the sellers and we never charge a fee to a buyer,” he said, “On the whole our industry works very well as it is, without the need to start charging such high additional fees to buyers. We should be encouraging them to invest here!” Ben Bateman of Holmes in Sotogrande added he was aware of the practice happening ‘in a few cases’. “It is totally unethical and gives our business a bad reputation for sharp practices,” he said.

“I have no objection to agents operating with a finder’s fee, but I do object when these so called buyers bill both sides without declaring from the outset that they will be doing so.” He added: “When unscrupulous agents abuse the system by adding extra amounts, the whole industry suffers. “Beware of this sharp practise.” Legal expert Antonio Flores added that such practises can be deemed illegal. “It is not illegal to have your commission built into the price, with the agreement of the vendor,” he told the Olive Press. The problem is when an agent adds a commission on top but does not tell the buyer or seller. “This happens when the agent is the middle man and the parties are not in touch via their lawyers. This is actually a criminal offence.”

Have you been a victim? Email newsdesk@theolivepress.es

Granada’s new eco-village

PAGE XIV

Andalucia’s highest towns

PAGE XVII

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Download our app now and begin enjoying the best SpanishTHE Gibraltar Youth Sernews onBank the go. has an- vice has been rewarded BARCLAYS nounced it will now transfer with a Heritage Award for its Gibraltar residential and its work in restoring the corporate mortgages and Devil’s Gap Steps. loan book to the Gibraltar A number of individuals all under 16 - volunteered International Bank (GIB). PROUD: Youth service with their award The move comes after Bar- their time over an eightclays announced in April day period to paint the The Individual Heritage ernment receiving two for 2016 that it would close steps in commemoration of Award went to ‘The Kasbar’ their work at Wellington what remained of its operathe 1967 Referendum. The Olive Press in Castle Street for their Front and the 'Upper Rock tions in Gibraltar. The Heritage Awards are restoration of the previous Paths’. The bank has commented presented annually by the old bar and water cistern. Contractors on the two TOPare fornonews in Spain! that there changes to Gibraltar Heritage Trust Three Group Heritage projects, including GCA the terms and conditions of and this year’s award cerAwards were also awarded Architects, ARC Archithe mortgages and loans de- emony took place at the with the Gibraltarian gov- tects, JLC Consulting and spite the transfer. Caleta Hotel. STEPPING UP: To restore Bovis-Koala JV were also The move will see GIB more than quadruple its loan honoured. The last Group book, from £43 million to Heritage Award went to approximately £180 million, The Royal Gibraltar Post according to CEO Lawrence Office for their collection, Podesta. restoration and placing of A NEW 15-storey block of residential flats has been given planning Deposits have also increased permission at Shackleton Road. historic pillar boxes in the from £244 million to around The new building aims to cater for first-time buyers, with prices for town centre. The objective £600 million. small studio apartments starting at £119,000. of the awards is to recogFormer Barclays Bank cliA total of 150 apartments are set to be constructed in the building, nize outstanding heritage ents should have received which will be known as The Hub. conservation projects and a letter outlining the next The development will also include parking for bicycles and motorencourage Gibraltarians steps concerning their rebikes, as well as a car-sharing scheme, disability bays, a residents’ to restore buildings, strucspective mortgages and only gym, laundry and communal spaces. IN SITU: The Hub tures and monuments. loans.

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PROPERTY wealth in the UK is overwhelmingly concentrated in London and the south-east of England, according to research by Halifax. The total value of homes in London is now more than all of those in Scotland, Wales and the North of England combined. In 2007, the value of housing in the north-east of England was estimated at £114bn and this increased to £136bn by 2017. During the same period, the value of houses in London increased from a whopping £718bn to £1,338bn. Value in Northern Ireland actually fell during this period. “The value of housing stock has grown by close to £2tn in the past decade, and with the equity rich regions of London and the south-east largely responsible, it highlights a considerable regional imbalance in the distribution of housing wealth,” Russell Galley, managing director at Halifax told the press.

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December 6th - December 19th 2017

FINTECH BUSINESS

December 6th - December 19th 2017

You may not know it yet… but Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) could change the lives of ordinary Gibraltarians, writes Joe Wallen

T can be best remembered by its connection to a certain Radio One DJ (Dave Lee Travis, in case you are under 30), it is surprisingly simple to grasp and it is expected to make Gibraltar a world-leader when it comes to cryptocurrencies. Next month, things really move forward when the Government brings into force its eagerly awaited Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) framework. Gibraltar will become the first place

on the continent - and one of the first globally - to regulate businesses using DLT. In a nutshell, the DLT regulation offers a safe and operative legal framework for cryptocurrencies and blockchain, such as Bitcoin. “It will increase confidence in Gibraltar-licensed DLT firms and in the products and services provided by them,” said Marc Ellul, Managing Partner at Ellul & Co law firm. “They will no longer need to rely on

HQ: The’Block Trade Centre’ and (below) Dave Lee Travis and Bitcoin ATM

Just around the block! legal opinions or on uncertain grey areas. “It will ensure a degree of consumer protection which, together with protecting against financial crime, is the key aim of any regulatory system.” The developments are coming thick and fast and follow on the heels of

lockhead

The Gibraltar Stock Exchange confirming it was introducing a blockchain into its trading systems, as well as approving a Bitcoin Exchange Traded Instrument this summer. Just two months ago, the first Bitcoin ATM machine was installed in the Rock’s World Trade Centre and local

By Christopher Cousins of Igniteratings.com

Times of chain

In the first of a regular column, Chris Cousins tells you everything you needed to know about Blockchain, Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies

IN SS ON IN E CH W CTI ER E TH PRE UN NE SE PAP AC N. IVE LA A H ST BR UTIO OL NDS EC FIR EM OL TAR RE NT HE TO EV AL E T FI RE T TARCH R IBRF TH E- AL E G O W BR INT THE AD GI F YS HE A A W IS AL

OME have called it a bubble, a trend or, worse even, a scam. However, with a $300bn market cap it seems that digital currency is here to stay. Gibraltar has seen the potential and embraced the industry, with nearly an entire floor of the WTC occupied by blockchain companies. And with new regulations being implemented in 2018, the Rock has found its next niche! So, what is blockchain and why is it important to not only Gibraltar but the global economy? Simply put, blockchain technology provides a means by which a process may be decentralised and made more efficient. For example: imagine you are buying lunch. If you pay with a debit card, the bank deducts the funds from your account and then sends them to the restaurant. The transaction takes time and requires a trusted third party to process, charging a commission along the way. The same transaction could be handled on the decentralised blockchain, allowing your lunch payment to be settled immediately, with no middleman and no fee to the restaurant. Blockchain technology can be used to disrupt many traditional business practices, and is being deployed by thousands of start-ups to decentralise pro-

cesses like credit ratings, gaming, lending and shipping. These start-ups have also used blockchain as a means of raising funds – via an Initial Coin Offering (ICO). An ICO is very similar to a new stock offering, but rather than shares you receive tokens which usually have certain benefits attached to them. ICOs allow supporters of a project to contribute financially to that project, much like a crowdfunding event. In the past year over 3.5 billion US dollars have been raised via an ICO process, with relative ease when compared to venture capital or other more traditional fund raising methods. As ICOs are unregulated it’s important to understand which ones are investment worthy or not, this can sometimes prove difficult. Ignite is a Gibraltar-based software start-up, which is creating the world's first decentralised asset ratings service bowered by blockchain technology. By setting this up, we aim to leverage pure wisdom of the crowd theory and deliver reliable investment intelligence to any would-be investor. We have a new office at the World Trade Centre, with a solid team of technology, legal and finance professionals. We look forward to an exciting future. See more at www.igniteratings.com

businesses, including the restaurant Supernatural, are already accepting it as payment. In short, we’re out of the blocks! It has certainly been an exciting year with various cryptocurrency companies moving to Gibraltar. “There are so many of us working in this area at the World Trade Centre, people are calling it the Block Trade Centre,” said Nicholas Eastham, of block chain firm Quantoz, that recently opened an office there. “We see great opportunity for the e-gaming and financial service industries, and Gibraltar has put itself at the forefront of development. “By regulating DLT it also sets a clear path for a much safer financial system for all parties.” However, the concept of what DLT is and how it could change our lives is not widely understood. This is fair enough - the term is a mouth-

ful by itself, without going into the innovative technology it incorporates! Yet, the new regulation and Gibraltar’s position as a global hub for financial services means that DLT is hotly tipped to become vital to the economy on the Rock. It was the American astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson who stated ‘I know of no time in human history where ignorance was better than knowledge.’ So, leave your technophobia behind Gibraltarians! For we are going on a journey into the fascinating (trust me on this one) world of DLT. This is how it works: In its simplest form, DLT refers to a type of online database where information is stored. What makes it unique however, is that the information held is updated independently by each participant. Crucially, this means the information is not communicated by a central or third party but instead the database is automatically able to update and then relay the information itself. There are two main advantages of implementing DLT into business. Firstly, it cuts out third-parties allowing companies to save money through transactional fees and processing costs. Secondly - and vitally - the lack of a third party allows internet users to transfer digital property, such as online accounts, to one another in a completely safe and secure manner for the first time. At present, trillions of euros move around our global financial system each day through the paper-based system, mostly via banks. Transactions are often subject to delays and, not just that, are vulnerable to fraud. DLT cuts that risk out. “The consequences of this breakthrough are hard to overstate,” comments Marc Andreessen, the American tech billionaire.

S o h o w could DLT change the economy on the Rock? Gibraltar is already considered to be one of the most dynamic jurisdictions in global financial services as well as in eGaming. DLT will allow customers to have digital passports, which will be readily available to check before firms allow them to do business. Unsure about a new investor or sceptical about signing up someone to your gambling website? DLT has got your back. Global banking giant, Goldman Sachs recently estimated that DLT could save the financial services industry $12 billion in processing costs annually. DLT is also likely to cut the cost of transferring foreign currency, as well as commodities such as gold and derivatives. Ever fancied yourself as an energy mogul? Not something I’d thought about either. However, thanks to DLT it could become a reality for many of us. Take the massive advances in rooftop solar technology (see pic far left) and the high-capacity batteries that go with it. Now individuals can act as power providers on a local scale. Through DLT, a local entrepreneur could sign up a street of neighbours to form an impenetrable, online database allowing them to exchange energy at a click of a button. After investing in solar panels, a household could sell its excess energy direct to neighbours, without the transactional requirement of a third party. Participants would just have to approve the energy transfer and the database would update itself, securely. Given Gibraltar’s Mediterranean climate, could it now establish itself as the first DLT energy superpower? Lastly, DLT could revolutionize the sharing industry on Gibraltar, something that could be of particular use to solve housing shortages on the Rock. “By enabling a secure, tamper-proof system for managing digital credentials and reputation, we believe blockchain could help accelerate the adoption of person to person lodging,” a spokesman from Goldman Sachs told the press. Landlord and tenant records can’t be tampered with or duplicated, leading to the construction of incorruptible online identities. Should a Gibraltarian wish to market their property online, they could check instantly whether a prospective tenant had delayed rent or damaged a previous property. While Distributed Ledger Technology may seem like an intimidating concept, it is one that should be embraced as opposed to avoided. It is set to bring unforeseen improvements to life on the Rock for us all - what an exciting time to be a Gibraltarian.

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olivepress olivepressnews SIX more British airports

+TheolivepressEs are set to be directly con-

nected to the Rock thanks to a series of new flight routes. BE ‘APPY! British holiday company Super Break has anUPGRADE: easyJet nounced the new charter flights from small regional airports will begin next summer. The airports included Belfast InternationDownload our appare now and Exeter, begin enjoying theal, best Humberside, Spanish Bournemouth, Durham EASYJET is set tonews offeron over the go. Tees Valley and East Mid3,000 extra seats on flights from the UK to Gibraltar thanks lands Airport. The company, which speto a fleet upgrade. The budget airline previously cialises in short breaks, ran flights from London Gat- will offer two flights a wick and Bristol on its 156-seat week from each airport A319 plane. during the month of July.

Easy does it

But it is now switching to the A320 aircraft, which has an Collapse increased capacity ofThe 186 pasOlive Press sengers. In an effort to restore loEasyJet believes the extra calintourism TOP forcanews Spain! and help fill pacity will help ease the strain the void left by the colon its existing London flights to lapse of Monarch earlier Gibraltar after Monarch ceased this year there will be trading earlier this year. a renewed focus on the “We’re delighted to be able to midlands if the trial peprovide even more seats for our riod is successful. customers who want to travel Boss Chris Hagan said: between Gibraltar and the UK throughout the winter,” said Ali “We are delighted to be Gayward, easyJet’s UK country working with our long established partners in manager. “We’ve added a significant Gibraltar to deliver this number of extra seats which al- brand new programme lows us to continue providing for UK leisure travellers. affordable, convenient connec- “Gibraltar is already one tions for our customers wheth- of our Top Ten short er they’re travelling on business break destinations and or leisure.” by adding this exclusive

Business December 6th - December 19th 2017

Here come the Brits

A collection of six UK airports will help bring thousands of extra tourists to the Rock

BUSY TIMES: Ahead for landing strip

capacity we hope to further cement our position as the UK’s specialist Gibraltar short break opera-

Travel Swap A LONDONER has developed an app that offers a cheap alternative for holidaymakers in Gibraltar by sharing their properties online. HolidaySwap, aimed at 20 to 30-year-olds, is different to Timeshare and AirBnB because it immediately puts two property owners in touch using a dating app format. Creator James Asquith, 28, says people build up their profiles using photos of the property they want to share and describes the app as a ‘halfway house between Tinder and AirBnB’, allowing GOING DIGITAL: Tinder for properties users to construct their profiles using their properties. “We’re calling GAMBLING technology provider Playtech has opened a new ofon people who fice in the World Trade Center in an bid to expand its work on the use social meRock. dia to promote COO Shimon Akad said the business move made sense as Playtheir propertech’s largest clients held core operaties,” he said. tions in Gibraltar. Akad also said the office bridged serPretty vices between the territory and its HQ “In Gibraltar in London. anywhere is “We found the ability to grow here,” good because he said. the whole place “Theres also a large opportunity here is so pretty.” because there's a lot of talent in GiIt is available braltar.” At present, Akad says the to download company’s Gibraltar operation has now for free grown to 150 staff members. But the on the Apple company will only grow if they recruit app store and ‘the next generation of IT experts’ will be availstressing graduate programmes to able on AnBOSSMAN: Akad develop trainees out of school. droid in two weeks.

Upping the ante

December 6th - December 19th 2017

tor.” The decision follows the success of Gibraltar’s tourism industry being

showcased at the World Travel Market in London last month. Minister for Tourism, Gilbert Lucudi said he hopes the announcement will bring ‘much needed leisure business’ to Gibraltar. Lucudi said: “We are very pleased to see that following discussions at the world’s most important travel market, Super Break has taken this initiative. “Whilst it may not cure the current gap in capacity, it will go a long way to restore business to the local tourism industry.” The final details of the programme have yet to be confirmed including prices, airlines and when the packages will go on sale.

NEWS IN BRIEF

On the block NICK Cowan of the Gibraltar Blockchain Exchange has delivered a speech on ICO best practice and ICO listings to start-ups at the Blockshow Asia Summit in Singapore.

Fin time CONSILIUM Group have acquired a 30% equity stake in Gibraltarian token sale service and blockchain startup advisors StartupToken Limited.

Big talk A PRESENTATION by Stephen Blackman, the Principal Economist at RBS, is set to take place at the O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel on December 6. Blackman will share his views on the state of the modern day nation state.

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SOCIALMEDIA

HEALTH

December 6th - December 19th 2017

OlivePressNewspaper

olivepress

December 6th - December 19th 2017

Put it down The foods which worsen your Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

RRITABLE bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, relapsing and often life-long condition which affects over four million people in the UK. Whilst not technically a disease, it is responsible for many missed work days and a lot of silent suffering. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, reflux and a change of bowel habit. Sufferers often visit their GP many times throughout the year in order to get help and are often prescribed many different medication to help manage symptoms, leaving them dependent on a daily diet of pills. Often treatments are unsuccessful and sufferers learn to put up with the symptoms.

Bacteria

IBS symptoms such as bloating, ongoing reflux, indigestion and abdominal pain are often associated with the consumption of a group of FODMAP foods which are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and therefore enter the colon where they are fermented by bacteria. It is this fermentation and subsequent gas formation which leads to many of the IBS symptoms. FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols, which are a specific group of sugars found in certain carbohydrates present in a wide range of foods including onions, garlic, mushrooms, apples, lentils, rye and milk. Recent research shows that up to 86% of people who follow a low FODMAP diet experience significant improvement in symptoms within just a few weeks. Long term IBS sufferers have discovered that their symptoms were caused by FODMAP

PAINFUL: IBS is very common food intolerances and elimination of these foods allowed them to no longer depend on medications. The diet is supported by numerous scientific studies and pioneered by specialists in Australia and King’s College London. It is important to remember not everyone will have a problem with every FODMAP food group. Some people might have symptoms triggered by one or two types of FODMAPs, whereas others may be sensitive to all five. Therefore, foods should only be restricted if they contribute to symptoms. To find out if your IBS symptoms are linked to FODMAP food intolerances, you should consult a specialist for a full assessment. Ideally this should include a hydrogen breath-test and celiac test to confirm if you have intolerance to certain foods such as lactose of gluten. Once, this is eliminated you should seek guidance from a trained dietitian who will provided you with individualised advice and the FODMAP diet booklets. Dr Rebeca Erikson PhD and Dr David Deardon MD provide an integrated team approach to the management of IBS at a number of clinics in Gibraltar and the Costa del Sol.

olivepressnews

New cafe opens staffed by Gibraltarians suffering from mental health issues

Food for thought +TheolivepressEs

BE ‘APPY!

GIBRALTARIANS suffering from mental health issues have been offered employment through a revolutionary new catering initiative. The scheme, headed by Positive Pathways and Clubhouse Gibraltar, has seen a new cafeteria set up at Ocean Views Mental Health Hospital.The facility will be staffed by those suffering from mental health issues to help them take their first steps in getting back to full time employment. The facility is now open to

all the users, visitors Downloadand our app now and staff at Ocean Views, Hillbegin enjoying the best Spanish sides Residential Home and news on the go. the Bella Vista Day Centre. “The cafeteria will be operating using a social enterprise model, with an emphasis on social reinvestment,” Darryl Britto, Positive Pathway’s project manager told the press. “We are working in partner- INNOVATIVE: Ocean The Olive Press ship with Clubhouse Gibraltar in offering their mem- views industry.” bers opportunities tofor work TOP news in Spain! and receive training within Minister for Health, Neil F. the hospitality and catering Costa was delighted with the project, believing it offers a unique opportunity for Gibraltarians to gain confidence and obtain full time employment. A NUMBER of important meetings have been held between “The cafeteria is a wonderthe Minister for Health Neil Costa and his Scottish and Welsh ful initiative, which will not counterparts. only provide a service to the Travelling to both nations, Minister Costa held talks aimed at entire campus, but job opboosting the relationship between Gibraltar and the United portunities to persons that Kingdom. may find it difficult to take The Minister also explored ways he could collaborate with his the first step to get back into Scottish and Welsh counterparts to improve health care proviemployment,” he said. sion. “Both individuals are seasoned politicians with great ex“No doubt, it will provide perience in the provision of health services to their respective these individuals with a communities,” he said. “Further to my previous trip with my sense of pride and purpose Medical Director to Scotland, we pursued our discussions in and help them gain confiattempting to find commonalities. “We are hopeful that we will dence in a working environbe able to find synergies, which would be mutually beneficial.” ment.”

Costa visits the UK

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Food, drink & travel

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The toast of 2017

THE Cancer Relief Centre Gibraltar teamed up with Mama Lotties to host a cook-along brunch for women living with cancer. BUMPER YEAR: Spain Local chef Justin Baustista, the man behind Mama LotDownload our app now and ties: 100 Everyday Recipes cookbook, was on hand to the best Spanish begin enjoying help the ladies cook. news on the go. Primarily aimed at women, the event was part of the Centre’s ‘Living With and Beyond Cancer’ group that meets every Monday.

CONNOISSEURS of Spanish wines can mark 2017 down as a vintage year. The wines will be more alcoholic and of a higher quality, say experts. However, due to soaring temperatures and less rain, there will be less to go around, meaning prices are likely to be higher.

“The high temperatures and the drought have caused an accelerated maturation of the fruit,” explained Antonio Camacho, President of Corporación Vinoloa. "There has also been a more personalised treatment in each plot to ensure quality," he added.

Total eclipse

Sunborn bosses will re-mould La Sala in their own image

Kate Howarth, a cancer relief nurse from the Centre Thesaid: Olive Press “All the ladies have got very much involved. We try and do forTai news in Spain! something once aTOP month, Chi, cooking, things like this. “You name it we love doing it.” “We’ll see anybody who’s affected by cancer in Gibraltar THE Sunborn hotel has and offer any support we can.” taken over La Sala Gibral-

FANS: Girls that brunch

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Relief

December 6th - December 19th 2017

tar. Following two years of growth, Sunborn general manager Marc Skvorc is bringing his successful management style to the restaurant. “We’re still going to carry on with the same entertainment and social dining with live music,” said Skvorc. Skvorc says he feels the

EXPANDING: Sunborn hotel and casino

time is right to expand the Sunborn brand as its sky restaurant won two AA Rosettes this summer in recognition of exceptionally high standards in its culi-

nary experience. The hotel has grown by 20% over the last year and a half. “We thought this would be a perfect time to encom-

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pass more of the operations in the resort, which La Sala is one of them,” he said. “The Sunborn resort has been growing more and more. “We’re going to bring in this level of management philosophy to La Sala.” The restaurant, which became a licenced wedding venue this year, says it will still retain its social dining experience and live music. But the Sunborn hopes to inject its own elements into the restaurant as its management model becomes more successful. La Sala will retain its name through a licence agreement with the Sunborn.

Foodie first MANILVA is to host its first ever gastronomic fair. Taste of Manilva will be held this weekend in Plaza Vendimia. Friday December 8 will see a food market where you will be able to taste and buy local produce. From 2pm, a local stew will be served followed by an award ceremony for the best locallyproduced wine. At 5.30pm, the Municipal Theatre School will provide entertainment and at 7.30pm Manilva’s Christmas lights will be switched on. This is followed by musical performances at 8pm and 10.30pm. On Saturday, the food market starts at 10.30am and there will be several workshops and activities, followed by a giant paella at 2pm. A pastry contest at 5pm will be followed by another concert.

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Food, drink & travel

Decanting the 10 greatest myths about Spain’s top tipple

OR some of us, navigating our way around the wine section can be a daunting task. With so many amazing Spanish varieties, how are we supposed to know which is the best tipple? Are screw caps a no go? Does age matter and price count? And what about how deep the ‘dimple’ of the bottle is? Confusion makes for pour choices! So in perfect time for Christmas, we sought the advice of the wine experts - in vino veritas to decode the myths and help you find a drink that exceeds all your grape expectations.

December 6th - December 19th 2017

Heard it through the grapevine Screw caps = poor quality

Legs = Better quality People like to swirl their wine and look at how many droplets – or ‘legs’ – ooze down the side of the glass. The bigger the legs, they say, the better the quality. WRONG. As Adrian Smith, a wine columnist for The Independent points out: “In actual fact it’s just a higher concentration of alcohol resulting in the leftover wine sliding down the glass at a slower pace, nothing more.”

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Screw caps have long been looked down upon as cheap plonk. But although nothing is quite as satisfying as that lovely ‘pop’ as the cork slides free from the bottle, it doesn’t mean the wine is of any better quality. David Moore, who owns Michelinstarred restaurant Pied a Terre in London, says: “The one great advantage of a screw top is that the wine can’t be corked. This is when the wine is infected and takeso n a very mouldy smell and taste. That can’t happen with a screw top.”

A silver spoon keeps bubbly fresh Rumour has it that putting a silver spoon, handle first, into the neck of a champagne bottle will preserve its fizz. You guessed it, that doesn’t work either. The best method is to use a stopper with a vacuum seal. Expert Robin Copestick says: “Keep it cold – it’s more likely to retain some of its fizz and will still be drinkable for a day or two.”

Big dimple = better quality We’ve all heard it, the deeper the dimple at the bottom of the bottle, the better the quality of the tipple. Wrong again. The only thing the deep dimple signifies is that the manufacturer has spent more money on making the bottle. Expert Peter Mitchell, from Jeroboams in London, says: “A deep punt just means the winery has wasted more money and resources on the glass. What the label tells you is more important than the glass it’s stuck on.”

Old wine = better quality Just because a wine is old, doesn’t mean it will taste good.

the Good years! Rioja

They say the older the red wine the better, but that isn’t always true, so how do you know which year is best? Well, below we have ranked the top 5 years of Spain’s best-selling vinos, according to the experts.

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- Scoring 94 out of 100 in the Wine Spectator’s Rioja rankings, this year promises ripe, balanced wines that are ‘fresh and focused’.

2004

- With a score of 93, this batch promises balanced, ripe black fruit flavours and a ‘lively acidity’.

2005

Also scored at 93, this year is described as ‘balanced and graceful’ and ‘firm yet expressive’.

2001

- Another high scorer at 93, hot and dry weather in this year gave ripe wines opulent flavours and ‘powerful structures’.

1995

- The only wine from the 90s in the top five, this vino, scored 92, is a rich wine with ‘good structure and excellent balance’.

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You get what you pay for Supermarket plonk may not match up to bottles that cost hundreds of euros each, but it doesn’t follow that the more you pay, the better the wine is. Experts advise that spending around €10-13 will give you the best quality/value ratio. Expert Peter Mitchell explains: “Whilst a small percentage of wine does age well, the vast majority of wines today have been made to be ready to drink on release and will not benefit from ageing. “Most will keep for a few years if stored properly but few will be as good, let alone have improved. “The ageing process is a little more complicated and primarily depends on the quality of the vintage, the characteristic of the varietal and region of origin or the producer, which isn’t always reflected in the cost of the bottle.”

with fish, but it’s not a blanket rule that red wine can’t go with white flesh. It all depends on what fish you are eating. Experts say a pan-fried salmon pairs wonderfully with a Californian pinot noir, while a meaty swordfish goes down great with a glass of Merlot.

December 6th - December 19th 2017

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Red wine is for cheese Not necessarily. Head sommelier at Sussex’s Gravetye Manor recently told The Independent: “The tannins in full-bodied red wines are not compatible with the protein in milk products, and strong flavoured cheeses don’t need to compete with a full-bodied red wine. “Dry white wine is often better-suited, or sweet wines can pair beautifully with blue cheese. “If you’re ever struggling to pair with cheese, the best bet is to go for a wine local to the area the cheese comes from.”

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Sulphites cause hangovers Sulphites don’t cause hangovers, alcohol does. Any wine purporting to be ‘hangover free’ because it has low sulphite numbers will still give you a headache in the morning when drunk in excess. Sulphites stabilise and preserve the wine but do little else.

Red wine doesn’t go with fish Sure, some white wines pair beautifully

The Olive Press Insider’s Guide

No white wines with meat

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Red wine and juicy steak are a marriage made in heaven but that’s not to say red meat and white wines should never pair up. As expert Smith explains: “You’d be surprised what a generously oaked Chardonnay can do when put side by side with a juicy chunk of meat. “The rich flavours sit beautifully alongside one another and create a fantastically mouth-watering pairing.”

Ribera del Duero 2004 (96) - Powerful yet balanced, with deep, pure fruit

2005 (95) - Assertive wines with chewy tannins, and with great depth

Priorat 2001 (95) - A fine summer, giving ripe, powerful wines.

2010 (94)

- Fresh, focused reds that are improving with time

2005 (93) - Balanced and

1994 (95) - Great power and ripe-

expressive, with red fruit and spice flavours

2001 (94) - Powerful, with ripe

- Ripe and dense the best marry concentration and elegance

ness

fruit, good balance and aging potential

2010 (94) - Ripe and balanced, fresh and firm

There is a whole new way to discover Andalucia

2004 (93)

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2000 (92) - Hot, dry summer

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produced wines with ripe fruit and firm tannins

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All about Andalucia

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Columnists

Marbella diaries

By Natalie Rose Kern

2017 has been full of ups and downs, writes Natalie Rose Kern

HE Christmas songs are playing — EVERYWHERE — and the festive season is well and truly underway in Marbella. As I sit down to search (frantically) for inspiration for my last column before Christmas, I think back on the past year, what it's brought me, what it's taught me. On this day last year, all of my worldly possessions were floating under a metre and a half of water in my mother's basement when the floods hit the coast and I penned my first column for the Olive Press, in which I lamented the misfortunes of my then situation and the flood's devastation: "Homeless, jobless, penniless freelance writer and single mother " Well, I'm no longer homeless (squatting in my mother's spare room), I now have a little beachside apartment with a (slither!) of a sea view from my bed. I guess I'm about as jobless and penniless as a freelance writer ever is— all the more so now — in December, as chas-

December 6th - December 19th 2017 December 6th - December 19th 2017

What a year

ing bills becomes futile before than just 'an animal' and part Christmas. of your family. And after fourAnd, yes, still very much a teen years, his loss was felt single mother as I've become throughout our family, the so independent in my parent- Monkey experiencing his first ing now that I couldn't have it taste of grief. any other way (control issues I noticed the loss most as I sat alert!) Whilst ‘The Novel’ has up at night, chasing yet anothmade little (no) progress (ex- er deadline, searching for incept in my head!) this past spiration in the darkness withyear, 2017, has out the warm been filled with bundle of fur giddy highs and at my feet some sobering where he used The number of lows. to sit with me The saddest abused animals in on cold nights, moment of the (a canine hot year came in this part of Spain water bottle!) May, when our offering me is alarming dog Baby-Boy c o m p a n y died after fourwhen the rest teen years of of the house silly, soppy, unwas asleep. conditional love. For a while I thought we'd not He was The Monkey's first get another dog... but graduplaymate, and it was a wonder ally the longing for playful to behold the patience and un- canine company grew. Last derstanding the docile poodle month the yearning ceased, had, as an eighteen-month old as we finally headed up to the child tugged on his ears and Ojen-based animal shelter, Trirode him like a ‘horsey’. ple A in search of a dog. Anyone who has owned a pet The number of abused and knows that they become more abandoned animals in this

part of Spain is alarming and shows no sign of slowing down, as Triple A continues to receive new animals almost every day. Last month a bag with ten newborn puppies was delivered; all in desperate need of shelter, food, medical care and love. Triple A provides all of that — but the shelter needs financial help, as they rely almost entirely on donations, sponsors and organised events and this month they will no doubt exceed 400 dogs, and these dogs need homes! If you are thinking about getting a dog this Christmas then I urge you to please think twice before heading to a pet shop or breeder who support cruel puppy mills. I know the fashion in Marbella is for ‘designer’ pooches you can put in your handbag, and that many think shelters will only have big dogs, hunting dogs, mongrels and "ugly" dogs, but there are dogs of all ages, breeds and sizes all in need of loving homes. We fell in love with a couple of Yorkies. They'd been abandoned together so the shelter didn't want to separate them — and neither did we! Scared, shivering and terrified, they spent their first night at home curled up and trembling. Six weeks later and I can't imagine life without them. They say ‘A dog's for life, not just for Christmas’, so please make it a rescue dog and give it a chance at a life. Yes, it has been a beautiful year, and I write this column a little warmer than last year. One dog on each foot.

And the winner is… The Christmas season is the time to pat ourselves on the back

CMY

The end of November and beginning of December is a period traditionally referred to by freelancers as ‘The Dead Zone’. It is little too early to start celebrating Christmas with company parties – they normally take place in the working week before December 25 – but most of the coast starts to wind down as the Festive Season approaches. If you are an autonomo, you will also know that is the time that you have to get in any monies owed before Christmas. Otherwise you will have to wait until February to get paid, as businesses don’t start operating officially until after Three Kings and, if you are still chasing cash, you are more than likely to be met with the response that the accounts department and/or managing director is skiing in Sierra Nevada. The national holidays on December 6 and 8 also add to that Twilight Zone feeling, but this year I have noticed that the beautiful people of Marbella have come up with a new way to fill the time. The Gala Awards Dinner. The past few weeks I have noticed half a dozen awards ceremonies taking place some of them formal (chambers of commerce) some a little less so (magazines) and some more than a little baffling (radio stations that play back to back music with no presenters). While I have no doubt that some of the above do award, as it said on one invitation that landed with a flourish in my inbox ‘the most outstanding in Marbella’, there are others

that make me raise a cynical eyebrow a la Roger Moore. ‘Best Hotel’ is normally something of a giveaway - if the hotel that is hosting the event does not win – which it invariably does – I have often wondered if the general manager would storm the stage and order everybody out. One way to get around that particular problem is to have so many categories that everybody present wins. So you have ‘Best Fusion Restaurant’, ‘Best International Restaurant’, ‘Best Placement of the Bread Basket’, ‘Best Placed Shelf in the Men’s Cubicles’, (that’s normally a magazine award) etc. A celebrity of some description normally gives out the awards and is duly photographed with all the winners, though you have to be careful. At one event the organizers had flown in a presenter from BBC4 (who nobody knew). She started the evening by announcing ‘Good Evening Mar– BELL- a’, at which point the press table rolled their eyes at the mispronunciation and one wag remarked loudly: “Why have they bothered to fly a bimbo over when we have hundreds to choose from here?” Mind you, one has to be careful not to be too cynical on the press table at these things. At one event a female colleague and myself were busy taking the proverbial about the whole proceedings. Imagine the ensuing hilarity that resulted when she won a special award for ‘Services to Marbella media’ or some such…

-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views

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