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Mark and Michelle at Olivia’s
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Bull-fighting talk Ricky’s Spanish moan Page 8
Bikes at the ready Froome bids for historic win Page 16
EMERGENCY services in Cadiz and Malaga were kept busy when two fires broke out within 20 minutes of each other on Friday afternoon. Helicopters, planes and fire crews battled the blazes late into the night. Dozens of residents were evacuated and roads were closed in Sotogrande as high winds quickly fanned the flames. Meanwhile at least seven cars blew up in Manilva after a tourist’s car short-circuited at the Pierre & Vacance Vacation Club. Expat Kelly Cookson said: “My husband’s Land Rover exploded and he has lost all his tools but thank God our house didn’t burn down and our dogs have lived.”
Expat takes legal action after Cajamar bank gives €52,000 of her money to a conman
Give my money back! EXCLUSIVE by Rob Horgan & Caitlin Quinn
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A BRITISH expat is facing bankruptcy after a bank dished out €52,000 of her money to a fraudster. Louise Reardon, 74, is now struggling to pay her mortgage and fears she will be left homeless despite winning an eight-year legal tussle with Cajamar. The bank was found guilty of negligence by Almeria’s penal court in May for cashing four fraudulent cheques, signed by a ‘friend’ of Reardon in 2007. Despite being ruled ‘responsible’ by the judge, Cajamar is refusing to pay, insisting it is ‘not obligated to repay the money’. It comes despite the crook fellow Brit Roy de Gannes, 61 - being convicted of fraud and given a two-and-a-half year prison sentence at the same hearing. He fraudulently cashed four cheques to the full amount, after stealing Reardon’s chequebook. The forged signatures, seen by the Olive Press, certainly look
PICTURE BY LENOX NAPIER
The Wright Stuff
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Double trouble
BATTLING: Reardon nothing like Reardon’s signature on record at the bank. But because de Gannes now insists he is bankrupt and can’t pay back the money, Reardon is being forced to take the bank through the civil courts. “This whole episode has been absolutely heartbreaking,” Reardon, originally from Surrey, told the Olive Press. “They gave my money away without my permission and
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CRIME NEWS
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
PCs Drunk and Disorderly Sent to Spain to keep Brits out of trouble two police officers are kicking up a storm of their own making
EXCLUSIVE: Brits will be cleared in Agnese probe, claims lawyer THE only suspects connected to missing expat Agnese Klavina (above) are set to be cleared of any wrongdoing, their lawyer claims. The lawyer representing British expats Westley Capper, 37, and Craig Porter, 32, insists the investigation against them will be dropped next month when the Marbella courts re-open. It comes despite Spanish newspapers reporting that the presiding judge had upped the investigation from illegal detention to unlawful killing. The pair’s lawyer at Cubism Law, however, insists it is untrue. “Neither Mr Capper or Mr Porter were at any time under investigation for the unlawful killing/homicide of Ms Klavina,” he said. “While our clients were for a time investigated for unlawful detention, we now have information from our client’s Spanish lawyers that the DNA tests are totally negative, the investigation against them has been closed and (they) will be formally discharged in September.” The pair were under investigation after CCTV footage showed them leaving Aqwa Mist nightclub, in Puerto Banus, with the 30-year-old Latvian on the night she disappeared in September last year.
By Rob Horgan
UNDER FIRE: PC Anderson (right) and Sgt Williams
IF you can’t beat them, join them. That appears to be the mantra of two British police officers in Spain.
Sent to the Magaluf to deal with boozed-up Brits, PC Martina Anderson and Sgt Brett Williams have instead found themselves in hot water. While Anderson admitted to being ‘sozzled’ in the party resort, her colleague Williams has caused controversy by posing with topless revellers for selfies.
More ‘most wanted’ nabbed
ONE of Britain’s most wanted criminals, thought to be hiding out on the Costa del Sol, has been apprehended in Lisbon, Portugal. Paul Buchanan, a 29-yearold New Yorker, was sought by British authorities for the attempted rape of a girl in Worcestershire. He is the fifth ‘most wanted’ British criminal arrested in the Iberian Peninsular this year, and is the second arrest this month following the snaring of suspected drug lord Anthony Dennis.
GOT HIM: Buchanan
Sozzled
Swapping cuffs for cocktails, Anderson gave away the game when she posted a picture on Facebook, saying she was too ‘sozzled’ to spell. British police had set aside a total of €19,000 to fund the pair’s two-week trip. And after supposedly helping to clean up the streets of the Mallorca resort, they have now jetted off to Ibiza party capital San Antonio to assist local police there.
Pyromaniac arrested for nine fires A WOMAN has been arrested for allegedly starting up to a dozen fires in Mijas. The alleged pyromaniac is accused of starting at least nine fires in the Riviera area alone. Police apprehended her as she was set to light another blaze. Authorities have long suspected that the fires were set by a single serial arsonist, and a long investigation led them to her last Friday after a fire again swept through the Riviera area. The fire caused extensive damage and forced the evacuation of numerous homes.
Bikers busted THE Costa del Sol chapter of the motorcycle club Hell’s Angels has been busted for drug smuggling. Police have made nine arrests after a two-year investigation. In total, €20,000 in cash, two firearms and more than 100 kilograms of marijuana were seized in a series of raids. Most of the drugs were destined for northern Europe, particularly Denmark and the Netherlands.
Baby abuse arrests A MOTHER and father have been arrested after a fourmonth-old baby was hospitalised with signs of sexual abuse in Malaga.
NEWS
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August 20th - September 2nd 2015
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TOP TRIO: Mark, Elliott and Michelle
THERE is nothing like getting the glamour couple of the moment to attend the launch of your new restaurant. And it certainly helps when one of them is your cousin. Elliot Wright was clearly chuffed when Mark Wright and new wife Michelle Keegan flew in to help him celebrate the longawaited opening of his eatery Olivia’s, in La Cala. The couple - who regularly grace the front page of Hello magazine - were on hand to wish Elliot luck in his new venture. Having recently tied the knot in the so-called ‘wedding of the year’, they swooped in for the champagne bash that lasted into the early hours of Tuesday. It’s certainly been a long time in coming. But the opening was certainly worth the wait with business moguls, politicians and local chefs attending. While TOWIE star Mark paraded his ex-Coronation Street wife, the glamourous crowd were serenaded by a string of entertainers, while chef Dave Gallagher wowed with some amazing canapes. Elliot told the Olive Press: “I’ve dreamt of opening a place like this for 15 years and now after months and months of hard work, it’s finally coming to fruition.” Wright, who has been writing about his progress in a regular Olive Press column, added that bookings were already excellent. Olivia’s has disabled access and live entertainment seven days CELEBRATION: Out in front of Olivia’s a week.
PICTURE BY ELOY MUNOZ PHOTOGRAPHY
Wright way to launch
MC hammered
A JEWISH rapper has been axed from a Spanish reggae festival after refusing to speak out on Palestine. American Matisyahu was dropped from Rototom Sunsplash festival for insisting he would not criticize Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. Now the Valencia festival
By Caitlin Quinn
- featuring reggae acts including Aswad, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry and Bunny Wailer - has been branded anti-Semitic by pro-Israel groups around the world. Organisers have been
Jewish rapper sacked from reggae festival for refusing to support Palestine
slammed for ordering the reggae-style rapper to release a statement about the right of Palestine to exist, a situation he dubbed ‘appalling and offensive’.
Political
“No artist deserves to be put in such a situation simply to perform his art,” said Matisyahu, noting that none of the festival’s other artists were asked to make political statements. The festival organisers insisted they had, in turn, acted under pressure from the international Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)
LADIES IN LACE: But Sam wears it better
Sam Cam crowned over Queen Letizia QUEEN Letizia has been forced to walk at the heels of Samantha Cameron, who trumped her in Vanity Fair’s International Best Dressed List of 2015. The British Prime Minister’s wife came second - to Letizia in eighth place - and was only beaten by Francesca Amfitheatrof, the design director for Tiffany. Noted for her ‘conservative charm’, Cameron serves as a creative consultant for Smythson, a luxury fashion brand. Spain’s queen was noted for her patronage of Spanish designers.
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movement, which supports Palestinian statehood. The movement condemned Matisyahu as a ‘Zionist’ who defends ‘a state that practices apartheid and ethnic cleansing’. While being American he is seen as being a representative of Israel, despite insisting this is not the case. Many of the other artists however, threatened to cancel the festival unless Matisyahu spoke out for Palestine. Festival officials cited ‘the festival’s sensitivity to Palestine, its people and the occupation of its territory by Israel’ in a statement.
Cuddles and alcohol
AXED: Matisyahu
HE courted controversy when he refused to let Spanish national radio record his headline show at music festival Benicassim last month. So it was perhaps brave of Noel Gallagher to head for a Spanish beach holiday just weeks later in Malaga. The former Oasis guitarist has been spotted on a Malaga beach with his glamorous publicist wife, Sara MacDonald.
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NEWS
NEWS IN BRIEF
Falls kill teen... A DUTCH tourist, 17, was killed in a bungee jumping accident in Cantabria when she fell 40 metres into a riverbed.
...and toddler A THREE-YEAR-OLD boy in Coin died after falling 10 metres from a bedroom window in his family’s apartment.
Cop crash FOUR people, including three policemen, were hospitalised following a car accident at a Marbella crossroads.
Deadly dive A BRITISH diver, 50, died on a dive off the coast of Cartagena, Murcia while exploring a 99-year-old shipwreck.
Nightclub nightmare TWO women, including one Brit, were hospitalised after they were struck by a car outside the famous Amnesia Disco in Ibiza.
Dental implant and crown 999 euros
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
FAST ONE!
A GROUP of expats have potentially lost millions of euros of prized possessions after a British storage warehouse shut down overnight. Dozens of furious punters have set up an action group to track down their items and the company’s bosses after Coin-based Fastcat vanished earlier this year. Up to 50 containers currently lie empty at the storage yard, which was taken over by firm MJ Levi SL a year ago. They have received no communication for months since the company ceased trading. The last known boss, Eddie
Expats lose prized belongings as storage warehouse Fastcat shuts under mysterious circumstances EXCLUSIVE By Rob Horgan Hardy, has apparently gone underground as has Fastcat’s previous owner Peter Gibson. One victim, British expat Jean Newall, 63, has lost ‘thousands of pounds’ worth of goods. “I had my life in there,” she said. “Important paperwork, old photos which meant the world to me, and sentimental
You rotten bankers From Front Page
now they are taking my life away too.” The expat, who has lived in Almeria since 2005, added: “I
Child drowns in pool A FOUR-YEAR-OLD British boy has drowned in a swimming pool in Mijas. The boy was (reportedly) running around the pool in the Mijas Golf urbanisation with other children at around 9pm when he fell in. His parents were having dinner at the time and did not realise until his body was found.
can’t believe that after an eightyear battle the bank is still not accepting responsibility.” A spokesman for the bank confirmed the sentence, but insisted it was not required to cough up unless a civil court ruled in her favour. Incredibly, Reardon has a €700,000 mortgage left with Cajamar, but has no money to pay it.
Justice
Extended last year until she is 95, she believes she will never see justice, and will soon be forced to leave the home due to defaulting on payments. While friends and family have supported her up until now, she has now solicited the help of consumer group FACUA to help recoup her money.
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items which are irreplaceable. “I have lost my grandmother’s record player and a lot of my mother’s jewellery.” Another British victim has vowed to find those at fault. She said: “We are fighting to get our stuff back and hope for a miracle. “Then we will take on these Del Boys and expose them.” The problems seem to have begun when in September 2014, MJ Levi SL took over the company after a container was found to be storing €2.8 million of cocaine. By December all communication had gone down, with punters unable to contact the company via email or phone. When Newall attempted to remove her belongings she found the facility empty. So far, a total of 34 people are known to have been affected. All numbers and email addresses connected to the company went unresponded as we went to press.
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the Olive Press August 20th - September 2nd 2015
OPINION Crossing the line
FEATURE NEWS
Fancy escaping the queues and hassle of the Costa del Sol this August, take Jon Clarke’s advice and head to hauntingly stunning Cabo de Gata
MOST people wait hours, if not days, to get any response from the police over burglaries, robberies or assaults. But a pair of Alicante policemen were apparently in such a hurry to respond to a petty vandalism complaint that they left their vehicle parked in a disabled space. To make matters worse, when exposed on Facebook they used a draconian new law to make the photographer pay a fine of no less than €800. This is a violation of free speech, and we can only expect more of the same under the controversial new gag law. While supposedly passed to tackle dangerous and unregulated protest, it is starting to look like a backward step towards a reactionary police state of reminiscent days gone by.
Lie back and relax
A rap for peace A PRO-Palestine group called it a ‘victory’, an Israeli newspaper called it ‘anti-Semitic discrimination’ when Jewish rapper Matisyahu was banned from a music festival. We call it ridiculous. While Judaism has had a profound impact on his life and music, he insists that his songs focus on peace and unity between all people. While the Israel-Palestine conflict is indeed a huge political hot potato, it is not relevant to his music. Matisyahu should be allowed to honour his Jewish identity as well as the peaceful nature of his music. Squeezed between a rock and a hard place, it was unfair to make him pick between the two.
G
ROWING up, there was one place in Europe that I knew I could always get away from it all and enjoy pretty much guaranteed sun. Cabo de Gata in Almeria is also luckily one of Spain’s last remaining coastal regions not yet sacrificed to developers and consumerism. Coupling hauntingly beautiful landscapes with stunning unspoilt beaches, the protected region has the most relaxed vibe...even in August. Conjuring up a true sense of wilderness, it is no surprise that many a Western film was shot here, including The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Once Upon A Time in the West. The landscape is barren and dry, like the deserts of Arizona and the West of America and, of course, back then filming was far cheaper than in Hollywood.
The great escape
And then you have the amazing backdrop and setting that inspired Garcia Lorca’s tragedy Blood Wedding, at the nowruined atmospheric Cortijo de los Frailes, a must visit for any
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olive press
Tel: 951 273 575 (admin) or admin@theolivepress.es or sales@theolivepress.es A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in southern Spain - 200,000 copies distributed monthly (130,000 digitally) with an estimated readership, including the website, of more than 500,000 people a month. Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: B91664029 951 273 575 Carretera Nacional 340, km 144.5 Calle Espinosa 1 Edificio centro comercial El Duque, planta primera, 29692 San Luis de Sabinillas, Manilva Printed by Corporación de Medios de Andalucía S.A. Editor: Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es Newsdesk newsdesk@theolivepress.es Tel: 665 798 618
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Super ceramics
Looking for pottery, some of the most original and colourful to be bought in Spain comes from charming town Nijar (the nerve centre of the park) inland in the mountains. Well worth a morning’s drive, the place has a history of ceramics and there are a number of studios to visit and some very reasonable prices for the wares.
Pact-time ahead
culture fan. Rolling hills of elephant grass, pock-marked with lines of agave and low-rise, flat-roofed white farmhouses, this is a photographer or film-maker’s dream. The walks are wonderful, either inland or along the undulating coastline, and the mix of restaurants and hotels is excellent. But most of you are probably interested in the beaches, and there are few places in the world that can compete with Playa de los Genoveses, Playa de los Muertos, or La Cala de San Pedro, which can only be reached via a stiff hour-long stroll from Las Negras… or a boat! While Genoveses is part naturist on one side, it is the perfect family beach, as long as the kids don’t mind a short walk across the dunes, that is apart
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You are truly spoilt for choice for beaches, whether you want the simple spots, such as Agua Amarga, which sits in a lovely cove by the town, or one of the wilder ones, which you will have to walk to. Pick of the bunch are the pair of Monsul and Genoveses (above), near San Jose, or Los Muertos, which gets packed in summer and hard to park, so you will need to arrive early. Playazo is great for families, while Cala del Plomo and Cala de Enmedio are pretty easy to reach by a walk from Agua Amarga (trainers recommended) and likely to be fairly quiet, even in August.
Total bankers WHEN you put your money in a bank account the last thing you expect is for it to be given away. That is unless you live in Greece. A British expat’s dispute with Cajamar screams of negligence and down right incompetence. While it remains true that the real bad guy is crook Roy de Gannes, the bank’s inability to accept responsibility for cashing the ‘suspect’ cheques beggars belief. After eight years trying to recoup her money surely a court ruling against the bank should be enough to make Cajamar to cough up… apparently not. Forcing the 74-year-old expat to now launch a long-winded civil court hearing is an appalling attempt to shirk responsibility and gives all good bankers a bad name!
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With elections creeping closer and the PP growing in popularity, the PSOE looks to jump in bed with new kids on the block Podemos
T
HE Socialists have already issued a preelection caveat – they intend to form a coalition with the anti-austerity Podemos Party in an effort to keep the Popular Party (PP) from staying in government. It isn’t alltogether surprising that the Socialists are edging towards agreements with an organisation that just a few months ago they said didn’t represent the true interests of Spanish leftists. But a recent poll by the government-funded CIS research centre shows that support for the PP is on the rise as the general elections near. The survey taken in early July puts the PP winning the race, if it were to be held at this time, with 28.2% -- up 25.6% from April. The Social-
MADRI MATTE D RS ists would be right behind the PP by just 1.3%,
with 24.9%, while Podemos would come in third place with 16.5% It is not so unusual now that the PSOE would be so willing, or so power-hungry, to seek a pact with Podemos just to usher in secretary general Pedro Sanchez as the new prime minister. Ínigo Errejon, the number two official in Podemos, said last week that such a leftist alliance would ‘produce a great change’ needed for Spain. There is also another factor that has put the former bickering leftists now at ease. The July poll shows that 21.1% of Spaniards would prefer such a coalition over the 11.6% who support the PP governing alone.
VISITOR: Mojito Joe
from in summer when there are some special arrangements to get there. For those looking for something more convenient, hole up in Agua Amarga, often thought to be one of Spain’s most exclusive resorts, albeit in the most low-key sort of way. A stopping-off point for celebrities including footballer Iker Casillas and girlfriend Sara Carbanero, the Swedish royal family and, even, it is claimed, King Felipe and wife Leticia last summer. It was here where the film Sexy Beast was shot and where Spain’s leading captains of industry come to unwind. Out of season you can literally have the beach to yourself, but even in August there is more than enough space to lay your towel on the beach. But what nailed the area for me was when I once interviewed former Clash lead singer Joe Strummer for the Daily Mail, who told me he had a home in the main resort of San Jose and visited frequently. Loving the edgy, offbeat feel of the town, which has grown quite substantially over the last decade but still has its charm, he was well known there. As the owner of local restaurant La Gallineta explained: “Joe typified the kind of visitors we get to the region. He was fun, thoughtful and intelligent. “He spoke Spanish and would always turn up at my restaurant shouting for a mojito with a big smile on his face. “We gave him the nickname ‘Mojito Joe’ and were all devastated when he passed away so young.” One thing is for sure, there is no way Joe went Straight to Hell, to coin the name of a film he starred in and shot in Cabo de Gata in the 1980s. Here, the Olive Press picks out its nine essential keys to enjoy the Cabo.
FEATURE
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August 20th - September 2nd 2015
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3 t n u h story
Hi
Hippy hike A brilliant way to combine the unique desert landscape of the park and a beach is a stroll to the famous ‘hippy beach’ of San Pedro. It takes around an hour each way, through breathtaking scenery and the arrival down a narrow path to the ancient ruined castle will be a massive plus point for kids. Once there you will come across
Staying fit
the long-time colony of new age travellers, who offer refreshments and snacks, not to mention the obligatory beads and jewellery for sale. Expect a fair few naturists! It can be fairly hot so set off early and if you don’t fancy the walk back you can always get a boat taxi for €6.
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Going underground
A great thing to do with kids is to get a boat from Las Negras to the deserted beach of San Pedro, which is just €6 there and back in summer. You might also want to hire a bike (many hotels provide them free of charge) and head off into the stunning interior, such as the amazing track that heads from Rodalquilar to the stunning Cortijo el Fraile. There is also a fantastic via verde (green route) that is perfect for enthusiastic cyclists to take to and from the charming town of Lucainena de los Torres inland.
The old iron and gold mines in and around Rodalquilar are a sight to behold. The old mining facilities just outside of the village are interesting, and you can even visit the mines themselves. There are hundreds of mines, tunnels and evacuation sites, which can be explored by tours and even on your own if you are brave. You find them driving above Rodalquilar on a rough track, which is passable if you are patient and brave. Eventually you will come to the main mining area, which is fascinating.
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Hauntingly atmospheric Cortijo del Fraile sits in a hidden valley between Los Albaricoques and Rodalquilar and was the setting for Garcia Lorca’s Blood Wedding, one of Spain’s most famous plays and films. Despite years of hollow promises (and protected BIC status), the ancient cortijo and chapel is sadly crumbling into the earth from which it was built. It was here that the infamous ‘crimen de Nijar’ tragedy took place, on which the Lorca play was based.
Home for foodies
6 Director for a day
It was way back in the 1960s that a series of American film producers and, oddly, Italian directors, principally Sergio Leone, saw the potential of using Cabo de Gata and its inland environs for, so-called, ‘Spaghetti Westerns’. Loads were filmed down here, including A Fistful of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More,
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bringing a fabulous input of money to an extremely poor part of Spain at the time. Many of the original locations are easy to find, while some of the sets have been preserved at a variety of film studios inland, near Tabernas, the best being the Oasys Mini Hollywood, which kids will love.
Sleep in peace Well, the obvious place if you are looking for a good restaurant to go with your garret is the Real La Joya in Agua Amarga. This stunning suites hotel, which has put up a number of celebrities, sits in a
One of the true delights of the area is the number of good places to eat in every village, with the highlights being around Las Negras, Rodalquilar and Agua Amarga. In Agua Amarga try La Villa, where American Lissa Griffith has a fabulous mix of international dishes, as well as the new pizzeria Carpanta, which also serves up a fabulous tuna carpaccio, not to mention decent cocktails at night. In El Pozo del Fraile look out for the amazing La Gallineta, my pick of the park, set in a charming garden and with some breathtakingly fresh and adventurous dishes (a pudding, above). Finally you might even get to try the food of former Spain Masterchef winner Juan Manuel Sanchez at the hotel Real La Joya, if you can get a table. Best bet is to stay there!
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charming spot above the town with amazing views and an overwhelming sense of peace. In the town itself you might also try Mikasa, or outside the relaxing Cortijo Los Malenos, part of
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the Relais de Silence chain. In San Jose, Cortijo el Sotillo is a long-time favourite, while inland, in Lucainena de las Torres a great value authentic spot is the wild country farmhouse El Saltador.
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NEWS
www.theolivepress.es August 20th - September 2nd 2015
Load of bull By Iona Napier
RICKY Gervais may be known for his humour, but the animal rights activist finds bullfighting no laughing matter. The actor has condemned the activity, tweeting ‘f**k anyone who tortures an animal for fun.’ The funnyman’s serious words came in response to the news that bulls have killed seven people this summer, and four since the weekend, all in Spanish bull-runs. And Gervais is not the only one, as a Spanish activist jumped into the Malaga bullring to comfort a dying bull last week. Virginia Ruiz is expected to be fined up to €6,000 for her act of defiance labelled ‘tres-
Ricky Gervais blasts ‘torturefor-fun’ bullfighting events after seven people die this summer
APPALLED: Ricky Gervais and Ordonez gored Rivera Ordonez, will never passing’. It comes as the ‘David Beck- fight again after surviving a ham of bullfighting’, Fran gruesome goring in an Aragon fight. The pinup boy of the sport was more fortunate than his father who died in the ring almost 30 years ago. TWO unruly pit-bull terriers are terrorizing San Pedro’s canines and have killed several local dogs. They are owned by a middle-aged German expat in the El Ingenio area and regularly roam without a lead or muzzle. Neighbours told the Olive Press that local petowners live in fear of their dogs being attacked or SPAIN’S ruling PP party leads killed and complain that the police do not take the the field with 28.2% support in attacks seriously enough. the latest poll, in the build up to “These dogs killed my treasured 13-year-old Yorkthe December general election. shire terrier a year ago but when I filed a denunThe PSOE is not far behind, cia it got ‘lost’ by police,” said a 55-year-old resiwith 24.9% support. dent who wished to remain nameless. Meanwhile, emerging parties “Scores have been attacked and more recently Podemos and Ciudadanos regmy neighbour was devastated when his dog was istered 15.7% and 11.1% supkilled – we need to take action.” port, respectively.
Terrier-ists
Leading the pack
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Blowing the competition away
POWERING ON: Wind turbines supply enough energy for a whole island
AFTER a year of hydro-wind power, El Hierro, one of the Canary Islands, has turned off its diesel engines. The island is set to be run entirely on wind power from this week. The wind power is provided by the Gorona del Viento power plant, which houses five industrial wind turbines and two lakes. The power plant has created an innovative system of connecting its hydro and wind-based sectors to allow for no power interruption. The island houses more than 10,000 inhabitants and uses around 48 gigawatt hours per year. The Canary Islands government has expressed its goal of reaching 60% renewably sourced energy in the next 20 years, and then reach 100% by 2050.
Golf gaff
Ronda Town Hall planning to revive controversial Los Merinos plans
By Nina Chausow
RONDA Town Hall is reviving its controversial Los Merinos mega-golf urbanisation project. The new double golf course scheme has been slammed by ecologists despite dropping the number of houses to 783 on more than 1,000 hectares of land. This decision to restart the project comes despite the Supreme Court’s ruling in March to scrap the project intended for UNESCO-protected land. It was turned down for many reasons, but principally for its lack of water. The Olive Press was responsible for launching the original campaign protesting against the project, which the court determined would affect the water supplies of many local towns and villages. But the town hall has declared that it will go forward with a meeting scheduled for Sep-
Oh, deer THERE’S a new arrival in Fuengirola’s Bioparc — a baby mouse-deer. Don’t be fooled by the name, as the mouse-deer is neither a mouse nor a deer, but a pint-sized relative of the pig family. And they’re not found anywhere else in Spain. Come to pay a visit to the tiny newborn, its brother and their parents in the Bioparc Fuengirola’s Hidden Jungle exhibit.
CONTROVERSIAL: Protests against Los Merinos tember with Banco Popular, the new owner of the land. The bank has acquired the land and project from previous owners Copisa, a big Catalan developer. The disgraced ex-mayor of Ronda Antonio Marin has also thrown his weight behind the revival. He said: “The Merinos project
can be revived. The ruling didn’t say that it couldn’t happen.” A spokesman for Ecologistas en Accion environmental group said that the project would ‘put the local ecosystem in grave danger’, and that the government must prioritise blocking ‘the proposed work that will destroy the rich natural habitat’.
Judgement day THE fate of controversial El Algarrobico hotel in Almeria will finally be decided next month. The Algarrobico case has dragged on since work on the building stopped in 2005 as it became clear that the land was protected. But a definitive ruling on its legality is expected when courts re-open in September. Greenpeace - among other groups - has regularly protested at the site. In July, the group awarded the beach in front of the hotel onebannerolive-2agosto.pdf of its notorious black flags.
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Horse down
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A HORSE suffering from heatstroke has inflamed animal rights activists in Marbella. The carriage horse collapsed from heat exhaustion in the Albarizas neighbourhood. Police and environmental protection officers arrived quickly and doused the animal before transferring it to a shelter. Pictures sparked cries to ban carriage rides in Marbella, where horses are often forced to stand in the direct sun for hours on end. The owner has now been charged with animal mistreatment, which can be punished under law with three months to a year in prison. 17/08/2015 He will11:43:39 be banned from any animal-related trade for one to three years, and fined up to €30,000.
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Beach hoggers TORROX police are fining sun-worshippers €30 for leaving their belongings unattended on the beach to reserve the best spots.
Mango man POLICE arrested a 28-year-old for robbing 2,000 kg of mangoes worth €6,000 from a Velez-Malaga finca sparking tougher night patrols to protect the crop.
Book bonus A TOTAL of 1,750 lucky students will receive a €70 grant from the VelezMalaga council to buy schoolbooks.
Lord of the run-arounds By Iona Napier
PLANS to build a Lord of the Rings theme park have been put on hold due to government spending cuts. The project, which was set to be built in the hills near Rincon de la Victoria, has been suspended, as the government doesn’t believe it is viable. The brakes have now been slammed on the exciting scheme, as well as a €3.8 million indoor swimming pool, after PSOE mayor Encarnacion Anaya expressed financial doubts. “We can’t be sure of the financial viability of either project, especially not the Tolkien
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
First copyright and now debt delay the Middle Earth theme park
Brolly good show NOT SO MAGICAL: Theme park abandoned park,” said Anaya. “If anything the swimming pool is our first priority.” The town’s four-party coalition is currently going through a ‘difficult situation’ of clearing €73.4 million of debt. Both projects were inherited from the previous PP government led by Francisco Salado who billed the park as a ‘first class tourist attraction’. But Warner Brothers have already raised copyright issues over the La Comarca project, which was origi-
nally meant to have opened by the end of this year.
WHEN the summer dry spell breaks, the townsfolk of Torrox won’t care if it torrents down. They’ve got their new art installation to keep them dry. A profusion of 600 colourful umbrellas floats above the main plaza, providing shade and adding a touch of artistry.
Heatstroke strikes again A SECOND person has died from heatstroke, just a week after a cyclist in Velez-Malaga died during soaring summer temperatures. The 45-year-old farmer, from Torrox, was working outdoors at around 4pm when he began to feel unwell, and collapsed soon after. He was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Like the first heatstroke victim, he was severely dehydrated and had a fever of over 40 degrees.
Family affair NERJA’s new PSOE mayor Rosa Arrabal is in hot water after her husband got a job at the town hall. The opposition is demanding the town hall releases documents detailing his six-month position as an administrative assistant, to check the legality of the appointment. Arrabal claims that the process was entirely legal, and that her husband went through the interview process before she came to power. She added that he actually came third, but after the top two candidates dropped out he got the job.
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Gibraltar NEWS
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Water fight
Sister Act on board
THE UK Foreign Office has officially accused Spain of violating maritime law following multiple Spanish incursions into Gibraltarian waters. It comes after a Spanish patrol boat and helicopter pursued another boat into the waters off Gibraltar in an attempt to apprehend drug traffickers. A Foreign Office spokesman said the action was ‘completely unacceptable and illegal under international maritime law’. The Spanish government has protested against the accusations based on their claim that the territorial waters are under Spain’s domain. The European Union is now also investigating the case.
SISTER Sledge are bringing the sounds of the 1970s to the Rock this month. The Philadelphia disco siblings who had a string of hits nearly half a century ago with We Are Family, Lost in Music and He’s the Greatest Dancer will take to the stage aboard the five-star Sunborn super-yacht hotel on August 29. It is taking place in the La Sala Gibraltar restaurant. Tickets are available from £39.
Lord in the dock ONE of Gibraltar’s most famous advocates has appeared in court over a string of sex offences on nine children. Former Labour MP Lord Janner, 87, was ordered to answer to 22 separate charges at Westminster court spanning 20 years from the 1960s. The Freeman of Gibraltar, who was a regular visitor to the enclave, regularly lobbied
Gib-speak GIBRALTAR’S unique language Llanito is at risk of extinction. The language, which is a mix of English and Spanish with some Italian, Portuguese and Arabic, is becoming less and less used. The director of the recently closed Instituto Cervantes in Gibraltar, Francisco Oda, blames the decline on the education of children, who only need a partial understanding of the language. “As the Gibraltarian society becomes more English, the Llanito vocabulary, like Spanish, disappears,” he said.
GIBRALTAR’S A-level students are top of the class in Spanish, with a 100% pass rate. A total of 123 students from Bayside and Westside secondary schools and Gibraltar College sat a Spanish A-level this year, making it the most popular subject. And there was reason to celebrate with almost half achieving B grades and above. Overall, each school experienced a 2% rise in pass levels this year. Spanish proved an overarching trend across British territory, with test-takers rising 14.4% in the UK.
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By Iona Napier for the Rock in Parliament, as well as its interests abroad. The case has now been sent to the Crown Court, where it is due to go to trial later this year.
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In 2012 Lord Janner was awarded the rock’s highest civic recognition - the Freedom of the City of Gibraltar – for being a longtime ‘friend and defender’ of the Rock. The government of Gibraltar has said it may revoke Lord Janner’s title if found guilty. Lord Janner’s family maintain that he is innocent.
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ON the Rock August 22
A charity cardboard boat race will be held at Leisure Island Ocean Village. For more info, contact wayne.warwick@gem.gi
August 22August 30
The annual Gibraltar Fair will take place in the evenings and feature games, rides, food and performances. For more info call +350 56641000 or email forty@gibtelecom. net
August 29September 4
The comedy ‘Madre Mia’ will be staged at the John Mackinstosh Hall Theatre as part of La Llanito Comedy Week. Tickets £12. For more info, contact info@santosproductions. com
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August 20th - September 2015 the Olive Press June 11th - June2nd 24th 2015
Community
A LEADING European gaming business is looking at Gibraltar to expand its interests. The Rank Group says that it will double its workforce as it expands both the Grosvenor Casino and Mecca Bingo brands on the Rock. Currently staffed by 30, the team is set to grow to more than 60 and the group is actively hiring now to meet the new demand. Director of digital operations for Grosvenor, Adam Joseph said: “We have grown from 15 staff to over 30 quickly and have exciting plans for many more roles this year. “With over 3,500 people working there, Gibraltar is a recognised talent pool for gaming and a key reason why we are growing in the region.”
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Gibraltar NEWS
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NEWS IN BRIEF People power OVER 1,000 residents of the Waterport area have signed a petition opposing the Government’s preferred location for the new LNG power station.
Games begin GIBRALTAR has submitted an official bid to host the 2019 Island Games after designated hosts Menorca pulled out.
Hedging bets AUSTRALIAN sports betting hedge fund Priomha is expanding to Gibraltar to attract more European and US clients.
Batting first NEW bat-tracking techniques have led to a landmark discovery of the first European free-tailed bat to be uncovered on the Rock in the Vanguard Cave.
Fit for fight GIBRALTAR firefighters have triumphed in the ‘toughest two minutes in sports’ coming third at the European Firefighter Combat Challenge.
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
Beauty school opens Excitement builds for Gibraltar’s first ever professional beauty academy opening in September
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IBRALTAR’S budding beauticians will soon have a place to hone their skills. City International School Of Beauty will become Gibraltar’s first ever professional beauty school and is set to provide a standard of excellence for those seeking a professional career when the first course begins in September. The school in City Mill Lane is a newly refurbished, highly equipped premises in the heart of Gibraltar. And those enrolling will be training towards the top qualification on offer. ITEC accredited (International Therapy Examination Council) is a leading worldwide specialist examination board providing quality qualifications in all aspects of beauty and spa therapy. ITEC is a nationally and internationally recognised qualification, preparing students for the workplace at home or abroad. City International School of Beauty is the only internationally accredited private Beauty School in Gibraltar and is not only there to provide international qualifications but to support your dreams and aspirations. And with over 30 years of professional teaching experience, founder Louise cannot wait to get started. “The career path in the beauty industry is rewarding, varied and diverse and it’s not only for the young,” she says. “There is an increasing number of mature students entering the beauty and spa profession. “The school is perfect for those either looking to enter into the beauty industry as a first career or those retraining, building their professional career for quality employability and fulfilment.”
QUALITY: The school offers ITEC diplomas while (inset) boss Louise Entry into the school requires the students to have a good, general education and a sympathetic and caring nature. There are no prerequisites in order to take the ITEC diplomas as they have been designed to accommodate students with no prior knowledge or for those with basic knowledge looking to up-skill. ITEC was founded in 1973 with the goal of setting high standards in the practice of beauty and spa therapy.
The ITEC syllabus is the result of 40 years of experience and is recognised worldwide for its outstanding high quality, international examinations, having established and recognised levels of excellence throughout the world. These diplomas are regarded by those in the world of beauty therapy as the highest standards of training available, ensuring attention to detail in all aspects including professionalism, appearance,
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client care and treatment skills. The staff at City International School of Beauty are experts in beauty training and work towards gaining you world class qualifications to build your professional career. As Louise says: “ITEC is a certificate of excellence AND excellence is our school’s standard.” For further information, call +350 200 61668 for September 2015 enrollment.
la cultura Journey to glory
15 August 20th - September 2nd 2015
what’s on
Netflix goes Spanish
ONLINE TV giant Netflix has launched its first-ever Spanish-language show. In the build-up to the arrival of the movie platform in Spain, Club de Cuervos aired on the US and UK platforms at the start of August - a new drama-comedy series set around a fictional football team. The 13-part series is directed by Gaz Alazraki, the man behind Nosotros Los Nobles which was the second-highest-grossing film in Mexican film history.
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HEY’RE all well past their half century in age but this much is true: Spandau Ballet are still Gold on the concert circuit and heading for Marbella. The favourite fashionista boy band of the 1980s may have left their eccentric outfits, rockstar lipstick and guyliner back in the decade of yuppies and red braces, but their sound hasn’t passed its sell-by-date. As individuals, it’s another story, songwriter and guitarist
stepona, August 1528
GLORY DAYS: Spandau boys, Gary Kemp (second left)
Spandau Ballet’s Gary Kemp tells the Olive Press about his Andalucian holidays, being a Dad and his highbrow reading choices EXCLUSIVE
By Iona Napier Gary Kemp tells me. He still has fond memories of cycling through Andalucia’s pueblo blancos and partying hard in Ibiza and Mallorca, but ‘those days are behind me’, he says.
Facial falsies WHAT do Barcelona defender Gerard Pique (centre), Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos (right) and pop-rock star Jose Chino (left) have in common? Their beards. And their abundant facial hair and sex-symbol status are driving a new trend that’s catching on in their native Spain and around the world. Facial hair transplants are a new surgical procedure that allows guys to have hair from
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their heads regrown on their chins and upper lips as beards and moustaches. The operation is especially popular among men in their thirties who want to move away from the clean-shaven look and aren’t able to grow facial hair to their liking. The procedure is nearly painless, but pricey, with customers reportedly paying €8,000 and more for the surgery.
THE UK'S NO.1
Today a visit to Spain is more about chilling out on a sunlounger with a good book - although the 55-year-old surprises me with his current beach reading - the highbrow ‘Romantic Moderns: From Virginia Woolf to John Piper’. Rock ’n’ roll it ain’t (although it does have Romantic in the title). Spandau were one of the most successful groups of the New Romantic era with singles charting at Number 1, 2 and 3 (respectively, True, Gold and Only When You Leave), eight UK Top 10 albums and a 1984 Brit Award for technical excellence. “We had a crazy, amazing time back then, things have changed and I’m a father-offour now! “But the music hasn’t changed. We love being on stage and making the music.” The band, reunited in 2009 after a tempestuous 20 years apart, are set to perform at the Hotel Puente Romano Tennis
Club on August 21 as part of their Soul Boys of the Western World tour. The boys hit the concert circuit to promote their new biopic movie of the same title, launched this spring to rave reviews. But stardom hasn’t gone to their heads. Gary still has that boyish twinkle in his eyes as he tells me, “We are so excited about being in Spain.” “The audience reaction has been incredible and we are really hoping that that will be the case in Marbella too. “And we can stand the heat! After a 40 degree performance in Sicily two weeks ago, we are ready for Marbella and just can’t wait.” Gary regrets not speaking any Spanish but assures me saxophonist Steve Norman is ‘completely fluent’ as he spent years living in Ibiza. ED: News broke that the concert had been cancelled as the OP went to press. For tickets and more information visit www.spandauballet.com
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Niña Pastori, a Cadizbased flamenco singer and two-time Grammy Latino winner, performs at the Auditorio Felipe VI at 9:30pm. Tickets are available at www.malagaentradas.com
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The Festival Internacional Hispano-Arabe offers classes and performances of belly dance-flamenco fusion with proceeds benefitting Cancer Research. For more information call 952 050 293
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la cultura
16 16 the Olive Press June 11th - June
London calling
A BRITISH musical is set to close the San Sebastian film festival this September. The musical film London Road, directed and created in 2011 by National Gallery artistic director Rufus Norris, tells the story of Ipswich residents coping with the murders of a serial killer. The adaptation features Hollywood darling Tom Hardy and Olivia Colman of Broadchurch. San Sebastian film festival originated as a celebration of Spanish-language film but has now grown into one of the most important global festivals. It kicks off on September 18 and runs until the 26th.
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24th 2015
COMING HOME: Picasso
Picasso heist
A PICASSO masterpiece has been seized by French customs in Corsica to prevent the ‘Spanish cultural treasure’ from leaving the country. Its owner, Santander and Bankinter official Jaime Botin, has been unsuccessfully trying to illegally export the €26.2 million painting since 2012. French authorities believe the painting, Head of a Young Woman, was destined for Switzerland.
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On your marks August 20th - September 2nd 2015
As Andalucia gears up for the 70th Vuelta a Espana, Nina Chausow takes a look at where cyclists Froome, Valverde and Quintano will be pushing their pedals to the metal
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S we race towards the start of the Vuelta a Espana 2015, athletes are eyeing up a cycling course that really puts the Costa del Sol on the map. Stretching for 3,360 kilometres and 21 stages, the first eight will take place in Andalucia, with several passing right along the coastline. This year marks the 80th year, but only the 70th actual event since the inaugural cycle back in 1935. The first Vuelta left from Madrid and traversed 3,425 kilometres but involved only 50 cyclists carrying their own tools to fix their bikes on the go. The Vuelta didn’t become annual, however, until after the end of the Spanish Civil War and World War II. The race, one of the three Grand Tours alongside the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia, still seems to favour Spaniards, with Salamanca-born Roberto Heras holding the record of four wins, and Madrid’s Alberto Contador as one of only six men to win all three tours. Favorites for the red jersey (the Vuelta’s marker of pack leader) this year include two Spaniards, Alejandro Valverde and Joaquim Rodriguez, both sons of amateur cyclists, and Nairo Quintana, a Colombian whose
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parents saved up to buy him a second-hand bike to bike 16 kilometres to school every day. Chris Froome (above), British cyclist for Team Sky and Tour de France reigning champion, is a favourite after placing second last year. He delayed announcing his
The race begins with a burst of speed in Puerto Banus, with a 7.4km time trial on August 22. The first stretch on the 23rd brings the cyclists to Alhaurin de la Torre, ending 165km away at the Caminito del Rey, its first Vuelta visit. Starting from Mijas, the path heads straight for Malaga on August 24. After Malaga, the riders come to the starting line at Estepona, where they will travel 10 km through the city centre and 20 on the Estepona coastline all the way to Vejer de la Frontera 203 km away on August 25. The town hall predicts that the event will bring in €300,000 in tourism income for those involved in the race. Between August 26 and 29, the race will run its course through Andalucia, tracing the countryside through Rota, Alcala de Guadaira, Cordoba, Cazorla, Jodar, Las Alpujarras and finally Puebla de Don Fadrique. participation, after committing to back-to-back Tour de France and Olympic events, but declared his intentions by tweeting the message: “Tough, but always exciting for the viewers #bringiton”. After Froome jokingly request-
ed a flatter time trial for 2015, the director of the Vuelta Javier Guillen in fact granted this, with a flat stretch in Burgos along with one of the most challenging climbs in Andorra, with a 5,200 metre climb in only 138 kilometres.
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the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
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Olive Press August thethe Olive Press June 11th -20th June- September 24th 2015 2nd 2015
POTTED POINTERS ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 62.27% Same week last year: 69.70% Same week in 2005: 58.02% AIRPORTS Gibraltar 00350 22073026 Granada-Jaen 958 245 200 Jerez - 956 150 000 Malaga - 952 048 844* *For English press 9 Sevilla - 954 449 000 EMERGENCIES Police 091 Guardia Civil 062 Medical service 061 Fire 080 EURO EXCHANGE RATES 1 euro is worth 1.11 American dollars 0.71 British pounds 1.46 Canadian dollars 7.46 Danish kroner 8.59 H Kong dollars 9.10 Norwegian kroner 1.56 Singapore dollars
Voiceless and angry I ALWAYS vote, having lived here a long time I feel it is my duty, however I would also like to vote in the Spanish General Elections. I live here, pay my taxes here, my business is here, I am not allowed to vote in the UK (nor do I want to) - but neither am I allowed to vote here. There must be thousands like me who are affected by the decisions of the Spanish Government but we don’t have a say except at a local level. I think if you pay income tax and social security here you should be allowed to vote in the general election, or at least have the choice. Bev Warnes, Torremolinos ED: Bev, yes it is a total outrage and tens of thousands are in the same boat
Bird talk IT was interesting to read the article on the pigeon pill Ovistop (Pigeons on the pill, issue 218). I represent the Italian pharmaceutical company who produces Ovistop. Ovistop is administered to the birds in the form of pigeon-friendly corn grain as a once-a-day snack (possibly in the early morning). Ovistop is designed for use in an integrated bird management programme, com-
LETTERS
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BATTLE AT SEA
Relentless wrongs I CANNOT understand why Spain keeps entering Gibraltar’s waters (Argy Bargy, issue 219). Every navy and shipping company except Spain recognises this every time they enter them. This piratical behaviour should be the subject of a European Arrest Warrant for reckless and dangerous navigation. There are several videos and photos taken by beachgoers, which clearly show the dark, menacing Spanish launch going past buoys demarcating the swimming area at Camp Bay. Albert Yome, Gibraltar
Spanish side
Political power
THIS childish argument on territorial waters about a Rock that is so far from UK mainland beggars belief. I really don’t know why so many British people get so upset over the ownership of a small town on the edge of Europe that very few have even been to. There are two sides to any story and I think the Gibraltar authorities rub the Spanish up the wrong way.
THE situation in Gibraltar worsened when the PP came to power. At first, it was a bit of a distraction for Rajoy when the country was crumbling. But now the country is picking up, it has decided to take on the Rock. Spain has Gib by the short and curlies thanks to weak, appeasing David Cameron.
Nick Monroe, Malaga
Bryan Best, Estepona
plementing existing control methods. The treatment is harmless and supported by all of the leading animal welfare organisations. In almost 13 years of activity, I have had the chance to achieve a high experience in pigeon management and particularly in their birth control. Marco Pellizzari, Florence, Italy
No surprise HAVING once been a dedicated long-distance cyclist,
I am not surprised that the man died from heat exhaustion (Heatstroke tragedy, issue 219). On my first multi-thousand kilometre tour of France in the heat of summer, I was warned that it is imperative to drink lots of water. Being a member of the CTC forum I am amazed at the number of cyclists who tour Spain or any other country in extreme temps. What is the attraction?! Whereas winter touring is great even in very cold tempreatures. Cycling generates a lot of heat so on really hot days how does the body dissi-
pate heat into an already hot atmosphere? Cycling isn’t tainted by stupid nationalism – nothing better than meeting other cyclists at campsites or on the road and sharing info and stories – all cyclists will be sorry to hear of this man’s death. Stuart Crawford, Coin
Cat control WHY does Estepona and indeed most of Spain have an out-of-control cat population? (Don’t kill our cats, is-
sue 219) It smacks of generic mismanagement, a distinct lack of neutering and simply not caring. This whole situation could have been avoided had someone in authority taken control and organised a mass neutering programme – it should have been done years ago. Now we have a horrific situation where no doubt these cats will be poisoned, die a slow and painful death and the cat population will still not be under control. The whole thing has something of the Third World about it. Jane Garrett, Ronda
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Good news WHAT a brilliant thing to do to give Gibraltar’s monkeys swimming pools (Wet and Wild, Issue 219). The news is constantly reminding us of the awful wildlife and habitat destruction worldwide, it is quite refreshing therefore to read that some official department is taking the trouble to ensure the survival and wellbeing of these lovely creatures. Well done Gibraltar! Don McCormack, La Linea
CHINESE lanterns a deathly threat (Lantern lunacy, issue 219), but the thousands of explosive fireworks fired at the town hall’s expense into the sky over every village fiesta are an exciting feature of the Costa visitor’s experience? Face it, in this dry climate, burning debris falling from the night sky is a really bad idea. Civic authorities should at least be punishing culprits and, at best, they should stop wasting public money subsidising it! Alun Whittaker, Manilva
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del Sol to blow lid on missing Amy Fitzpatrick case (13,937) 4) Local residents remember Cilla Black after she passes away at Spanish home (11,939) 5) Marbella’s Funny Beach closed over go-karting violation (4,343)
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Sotogrande
the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
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August 7 - August 20 2014
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
REGULARS: Visitors to Sotogrande have included Princes Harry and William, Nick Knowles, Rod Stewart and Mariah Carey
Inside
a secret world
PEACEFUL: Soto’s quiet marina captures the area’s tranquil vibe
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HE difference between Marbella and Sotogrande is that people go to Marbella to be seen,” says Swiss expat Madeline Gurtner, with a knowing smile. “Sotogrande is for people who don’t want to be seen, who want to be private and crave the tranquillity.” An enigmatic place, the leafy residential enclave, often known as ‘Soto’, is perfectly summed up by the boss of Pedro Antiguedades, a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of antiques just up the alluring Guadiaro valley. “You don’t have to have a flashy car to come here… although many do,” she continues. “It just has a completely different feel to anywhere else on this coastline.” Welcome to Sotogrande: a hidden paradise of palatial villas set back on grand tree-lined avenues clustered around chichi beach clubs and manicured green polo grounds. Sometimes described as Spain’s ‘millionaire’s playground’, it was initially purpose-built for a cosmopolitan, moneyed crowd with the added bonuses of 24-hour security, designer boutiques and ritzy restaurants. Even the public toilets are stylish! (Apparently you really can
judge a place on its loos, I am told). Sandwiched like a caviar filling between the Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz, not to mention Gibraltar and Malaga airports, what sets it apart is its overwhelming sense of discretion. In Sotogrande, one speaks in sotto voce - like the old ‘Sch Schweppes’ tonic ads, only on this more cosmopolitan stretch of coastline it’s more likely to be Nordic Mist. Just take a visit to Chambao, the hip beach chiringuito, on a Wednesday night, and you will get my meaning. To be fair, the resort has had an air of exclusivity ever since it was developed in 1962 by Joseph McMicking, after the multi millionaire fell in love with the location on a chance trip to Spain with his wife, gifted with the compliments of Swissair. Since then, a Who’s Who of royals and aristocrats have bought homes or holidayed here. And come summer time, you need to keep your spotter goggles on with everyone from princes William and Harry to Andrew and Fergie, the Duchess of York, plus princesses Eugenie and Beatrice, frequently visiting around polo time (more of which later).
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Shhh and say it in sotto voce... Iona Napier demystifies the enigma of the discreet enclave, where royals rub shoulders with, well, decent down-to-earth folk
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the OlivellPress June 11th - June 24th 2015 about
otogrande
Great expectations HE describes it as a ‘bright new chapter’ in the history of the magnificent destination. Recently, taking over the reigns of Sotogrande SA, CEO Marc Topiol has big plans for the enclave. One of the season’s biggest successes so far has been the thrice-weekly market in the marina, featuring charming stalls selling boho chic beside a parade of sleek white yachts. The market has spurred an influx of new visitors and an increase in percapita spending. With the new improvements, Topiol has kept Sotogrande’s youngsters in mind, too, creating children’s events, such as clown acts and juggling performances. For the sporty VISIONARY: Topiol crowd, Topiol has overseen upgrades and renovations to the tennis, paddle, golf and swimming facilities. “We will create a place for people of all ages to come together and enjoy great experiences and moments,” Topiol promises. But perhaps his most visionary new project is the area of La Reserva, which he insists is set to become one of the ‘most captivating and exclusive communities’ in Europe. The enclave will feature a wide range of luxury amenities, chief among them a sand-fringed, three-hectare private lagoon.
August 20th - September 2nd 2015 From Page 19 Then there are the A-list singers and actors, with Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey, and Genesis’ Mike Rutherford, adding a veritable sprinkling of stardust to the mix. The most recent arrival is BBC TV presenter Nick Knowles, writer wife Jessica and their one-year-old baby Eddie, who moved in on a friend’s recommendation when Nick had some health problems and needed to slow down the pace, earlier this year. The DIY SOS host commutes backwards and forwards to the UK, by all accounts loving his
Jam-packed with hunky polo players and paparazzi poking their lenses around new laid-back lifestyle in the enclave. Most people hear about Sotogrande through the grapevine – but try and find it in travel guides and you’d think the enclave doesn’t exist. Neither Fodors, the Rough Guide nor Lonely Planet list it in their books on Spain and little is written even in guides to Andalucia. However, visit the resort in August when it’s jam-packed with hunky polo players and paparazzi poking their telephoto lenses around Santa Maria
HIP: Serving up ‘espeto’ sardines at Chambao beach club
Heard it on
Polo Club’s VIP terraces, and it’s not so incognito. Indeed, you will find articles popping up in national newspapers both here in Spain and abroad, and Hello magazine, and the likes, will have at the least a handful of photos most issues. The polo - with its pop-up shopping village and Grey Goose
vodka bar parties - is certainly the big attraction for 43-yearold Adam Richardson, a car dealer from Leicestershire, who owns an apartment in the port and hasn’t missed a chukka in 10 years. “It’s paradise, I love it here, but whatever you do, don’t tell everyone!” he laughs - only half joking.
Unsurprisingly, Sotogrande is imagined by outsiders to be a world of privilege, where Russian oligarchs sip Pimms with British debutants. And yes the Russians do arrive, with one homeowner renting his enormous villa out to a family this summer, describing them as the ‘perfect’ clients,
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August 20th - September 2nd 2015 August 7 - August 20 2014 July 24- Aug 6 2014
SHOPPING GALORE: Sotogrande’s thrice-weekly marina market
the grapevine... ‘clean, quiet and respectful’. “I’m not really sure what they thought of the place or what they did,” added the British banker owner. “Their only major request was proper TV.” But in reality it is not Qatari princes or flashy celebs you find treading the immaculatelypaved pathways but low-key, northern Europeans and plenty of Madrid families on holiday. And although the big draw, polo, has a reputation as an elitist sport it’s free for all (except on Cup Final days). In the marina, a well-heeled British couple with two young teenage girls are on a day-trip from nearby Gaucin. Robert and Becky are drawn by the polo but distracted by the pristine boutiques where sumptuous fabrics adorn windows, daring you to decorate your imaginary dream pad. “It reminds me of Dubai,” says Robert as daughter Martha beetles off to salivate over a pair of sequinned espadrilles. “It really couldn’t be more different to Gaucin.” He’s not wrong. The parallels between Sotogrande and the pristine uniformity of Dubai, with a dash of Beverly Hills, are clear to see. Elegant apartments and multicoloured townhouses cluster around the marina while yachts, Audis and quadbikes
pass by in harmonious, photogenic scenes reminiscent of a film set. But contrary to stereotypes, many of the people who live here are ‘normal’ and pretty down to earth. “You don’t have to be flashy to enjoy Sotogrande, in fact many of the residents wouldn’t be seen dead in Marbella,” says Ben Bateman of Holmes Sotogrande. His view is echoed by Londonbased PR consultant Yasmin Sethna, who divides her time between Sotogrande and London.
There are no obvious signs of ‘lads, ladettes and typical Brits abroad’ behaviour “I love the fact that it isn’t full of overpriced restaurants. You can eat well and inexpensively in Sotogrande and nearby in Torreguadiaro,” she promises. “It’s a beautifully-kept resort, surrounded by fantastic countryside and well-placed for access to Gibraltar, Marbella, Estepona and Tarifa... and now you’ve got the Trocadero beach
IDYLLIC: A view across the canal in the port
club for a touch of glamour.” In fact, behind its façade of exclusivity, Sotogrande welcomes its visitors almost indiscriminately, as illustrated by the bustling Mercado de Levante flea market that springs up under candy-striped awnings along the port’s quayside on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings. And, don’t miss this year’s new food truck dining concept where you can feast on street food out of retro caravans (at the polo as well as the port). Think country chic meets urban style, with hay bales scattered around and geraniums growing haphazardly from the caravan window boxes. And, perhaps best of all, there are no obvious signs of ‘lads, ladettes and typical Brits abroad’ behaviour. Waiter Mario at the port’s La Marina bar speaks highly of the British customers. He says they’re ‘less pushy, less demanding’ than some of their European neighbours and generally very well behaved. De Grutyer shop assistant Belen also comments that British visitors tend to be ‘nice, elegant, and friendly’. In fact, you’re just as likely to hear Spanish, French, German, Russian and Swedish being spoken (sotto voce, of course) in polyglot Sotogrande where it’s not all about the British. And is it any wonder, with two polo clubs, racquet and yacht clubs, a swanky equestrian centre, and five championship golf-courses (including the illustrious Valderrama of Ryder Cup fame), all on the doorstep? “There’s an amazing mix of people here,” says economist Valero, 62, from Barcelona. “So many nationalities, but almost everyone speaks English so people coexist well – and the common love of polo and golf brings people together too.” The Californian climate, the sense of space and the ease of a purpose-built complex leave me feeling disorientated in the most delicious way possible, but I take to the road to see just how far you have to go for some authentic Spanish grub. The answer? Not far.
While Torreguadiaro is less glamorous that its big sister Soto, the Transmallo de Agustin restaurant offers delicious seafood, charming service and stunning sea views. And then you have amazing Thai restaurant La Casita in Alcaidesa. Before long I’m on the A2102,
ON PAR: One of the nearby luxury golf courses
a rural track winding through unspoilt countryside, crossing the handsome bridge at Venta Nueva and checking out Soto’s neighbouring villages of Guadiaro and Pueblo Nuevo. I pass through Secadero, where I am sucked in by the time capsule of aforementioned Pedro’s
antiques shop before arriving in San Martin del Tesorillo. This quintessential Spanish village is home to some 5,500 residents, including more than a few Romanians, judging by the number clustered around their bar Terraza, who invite me in with wide, toothy smiles. There’s something ironic about the bar’s homely murals, featuring the Eiffel Tower and emblazoned with the slogans ‘I could fly to Paris’ and ‘London - city of dreams’. How many people sweating in offices in either capital wouldn’t dream of being here, enjoying a cana overlooking the vineyards in this idyllic spot? “If you don’t have time for a drink, come back soon. We’d love to see you around and you’re always welcome,” says Aura, who is standing in for a friend. I drive back through Sotogrande on my way home, admiring its natural beauty and reflecting on the welcome I’ve met from such a cross-section of society. Sure, some people in Sotogrande are ‘grand’ in the wealthy, well-connected sense, but no one’s too posh to pass the time of day. Yet it still has the enigmatic quality of privacy and seclusion first referenced by Madeline at her antiques emporium. Maybe its highfalutin reputation is an act of self-preservation, Sotogrande’s ingenious way of remaining below the radar. So shhh. Speak sotto voce in Sotogrande. And whatever you do, keep it a secret.
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the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
sales rentals relocations
Araceli Gavira
Exclusive villa Altos de Valderrama Sotogrande Built: 655 m2.
Plot 3.264 m2.
4
1.950.000€
4
Great mansion Sotogrande Costa Built: 1.205 m2
Plot: 4.913 m2.
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2.750.000€
Unique duplex penthouse in La Marina Sotogrande 4
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1.090.000€
Townhouse in “Los Cortijos de La Reseva” Sotogrande
with private swimming pool & 4 garages. Berth optional Built: 330 m2 Terrace: 115 m2
Corner Townhouse in Ribera del Emperador Sotogrande
Built: 244 m2. Terrace: 20 m2. Garden 128 m2.
2
3
590.000€
Ground floor apartment in Valgrande Sotogrande Alto Built 364 m2.
3
4
560.000€
585.000€
Galerías Paniagua, Local 12, 11310 Sotogrande Tel.: (+34) 956 79 50 10 - (+34) 691 44 78 27 - hola@sotohouses.com www.sotohouses.com
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Man’s home has always been his castle and estate agents are as old as time itself
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otogrande
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
From Babylon to Sotogrande ADVERTORIAL
AN’S pursuit of a roof over his head is a story as ancient as Babylon. In fact, there has never been a time in the history of the world when property has not been important. Much like today, early man’s nesting instincts
were ingrained in his activities, domestic life, ambitions and, indeed, in the entire scope of human relations. Incredibly, archeological research in ancient Palestine, Babylon and Persia has unearthed evidence of real estate agents existing at that time.
And, what’s more, they were men of considerable importance in the transfer of properties. Amazingly, too, there’s also evidence that women were involved in commercial and real estate transactions. It appears that they required specialist training
CAPTION: Caption here
AT YOUR SERVICE: Estate agent Avaceli Gavira and tuition by expert teachers, and ended up being major lynchpins in some lucrative deals. Although real estate and the involvement of the agent is part of our history and culture, it is often difficult today to define the basis and norms that rule this ancient business. Perhaps that’s because of the ease which nearly anyone can access this profession, or because its scope is so wide and requires so much knowledge that it becomes difficult to visualize? You won’t have that feeling when you listen to Araceli Gavira, of Soto Houses, at her office in Galerias Paniagua. Araceli, a building engineer and technical architect by profession, has a very personal vision of the profession. She also has a profound sense of attention to detail and dedication which she affords to all her buyers, sellers and tenants. She achieves her objectives using simple facts, basic rules and criteria fundamental to the success of all transactions. Could she be a descendant of those dedicated Babylonian women who were so expert in commercial and real estate transactions? It could very easily be the case.
To contact Soto Houses email hola@sotohouses. com
OLD AND NEW: Babylon and Sotogrande both had and have top female agents
Stunning Las Sirenas is a wonderfully sumptuous and original property in a dream location in Sotogrande
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ITH its Turkish hammam and spa, ornate colonnades and garden statues it is the very definition of opulence. Sitting in 20 hectares of wooded parkland, stunning Las Sirenas also counts a cinema room, gym, playroom, tennis court and a six-car garage. Comprising four buildings and an incredible 16 bedrooms, some recently refurbished, this is one palatial home perfect for a large, extended family. An outdoor and indoor pool are complemented by the spa, with a hot room,
August 7 - August 20 2014 July 24- Aug 6 2014
Salute for a siren warm room and cold room, all guaranteed to make even the most stressed-out executive
MAJESTIC: Garden spread over six acres
ADVERTORIAL
PR OP
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FO C
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STUNNING: Las Sirenas has a distinct Morrish influence
relax. The grounds are amazing and the six acres of awardwinning formal gardens are inspired by Spain’s cultural past, in particular with a distinctly Moorish feel. The many secrets waiting to be discovered include arches, recesses and giant sculptures, not to mention the myriad of flora and fauna species which add both privacy and beauty to the property. A walk around the grounds or a trip to the hidden grotto located by the main building is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild. As is the sleeping alcove and ‘Moorish harem’ in the largest of the outbuildings. And the fairytale could get
even sweeter, with the town hall already giving outline planning permission for the construction of a 42,000 m2 roof area. It was built in the 1970s by an American family, who were in retail market in the US. “There is nothing like it around,” explained Bish, of Castles Estate Agents, who has covered the local market since 1986. “There is a lot of land and plenty of things can be done. There are so many possibilities, you could build apartments or luxury villas and make most of your money back.” For more information visit www.castlesestateagency. com
GRANDEUR: One of Las Sirenas’ dining rooms
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Panama hat? Check. Gladiator sandals? Check. Iona Napier is chukka-ed in at the deep end at Sotogrande’s world famous polo club
Top Rated Bilingual Daycare in Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro
LAST FEW SEPTEMBER 2015 PLACES REMAINING! If you are looking for top quality daycare in a stimulating and bilingual environment then your search is over! Little Brains have only a couple of places remaining for their September 2015 intake. Our current pre-schoolers will be leaving us to join San Jose, Sotogrande International School and our local partner primary school, Gloria Fuertes. We offer flexible daycare from 8am until 6pm, choose the days and hours to suit. We also have part-time options available. Every child who comes to Little Brains is cared for by a fantastic team of professionals and enjoys a fun packed curriculum of activities including soft play gym facility, cookery classes, music theatre classes and a bilingual, educational timetable. Little Brains daycare offers first class care for children from age 4 months to 4 years. Don’t just take our word for it, find out what some of our clients think at ‘The Review Centre’ www.reviewcentre.com and search for ‘Soto daycare’
For more information or to arrange a visit: angela@sotograndenursery.es or call 956 794 555
STARSTRUCK: England captain James Beim and Iona Napier T is perhaps the only place on earth where chinos are worn by grown men in every colour of the rainbow, from pistachio green to raspberry pink! Until my day at Santa Maria Polo Club I was a polo virgin with expectations based loosely on Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, where the real spectacle was the crowd rather than the players. I wasn’t far off the mark. Peering up at the VIP box from the public gallery, I spotted hundred-euro dresses, thousand-euro watches and Godknows-what-price facelifts. But Bulgari diamonds and Land Rovers aside, the polo is in fact the cheapest attraction here as, except for Finals days, the matches are FREE. Down among the hoi polloi, Joe and Jose Public sport low-key polo shirts and espadrilles and there’s not a Prada bag or Rolex in sight. But admittedly, whether sipping fino at the Tio Pepe stand or getting invited into the VIP box of Spain’s polo president (and very nice it was too), elegance reigns. The fast-action sport leaves golf – Sotogrande’s other major pull - languishing SKILLED: Beim in the rough while the teams of perfectlypreened ponies and sizeable entourages of grooms and hanAT up to €45,000 per year, Sotodlers echo a more grande International School is pricier glamorous bygone than all but six of the UK’s most elite age. schools, hot on the heels of Hurtwood It’s no wonder princand Tonbridge. es Charles, Andrew, It is the most expensive school in William and Harry, Spain and the 21st most expensive Spanish royals, sulschool in the world, and its sky-high tans and high sotest scores match its costs. ciety are attracted With a strong track record of charity to this hallowed work and a long list of students getturf which pulls in a ting into top universities in the UK and 50,000 strong crowd Spain, it can rightfully justify its cost. of spectators for the Interestingly, the world’s top 10 most annual International expensive schools are ALL found in Summer TournaSwitzerland. ment – this year’s is
otogrande
Horsin
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Luxurious learning
After 30 years in Malaga and with more than 2,000 works created the versatile artist offers a retrospective entitled “Un cuarto de siglo” (A quarter of a century) with works from recent years and his new collections. Sharing space in Sotogrande Art Gallery with other artists.
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A NEW Sotogrande artist is moving and shaking the hub’s creative scene with a brand new gallery. Argentinian-born Osvaldo Lobalzo, who has sold over 3,000 paintings internationally, moved to Spain 30 years ago and is exhibiting his work in Sotogrande’s marina. The highly-acclaimed artist has spoken on TV of his extensive work with the blind thanks to 3D art and teaches free art classes to children aged five and over on Thursday nights from 10-12pm. For information call 670 382 196.
the 44th. distance from world number “Sotogrande is known as the one Adolfo Cambiaso, proudly ‘cathedral of European polo’ sporting an Argentinian flag – it’s the best club in Europe on his helmet, and I stop Engand ranked third in the world,” land captain James Beim as explains PR manager Pilar he strolls past with his young de la Puente who escorts me daughter. through luxy VIP and backstage “I love it here,” says friendly, areas. self-professed family man Beim, In a poignant, private moment originally from Gloucestershire. I witness the US team wring“We spend ing the sweat about five out of their tops weeks here between play as I spotted hundred-euro in the sumstable hands and the dresses, thousand- mer hose down kids love euro watches and horses with miliit – and the tary precision. God-knows-what-price beach, too.” “A team has just The impresfacelifts four players but sive kids club around 25 peois just one ple make up the of a huge full entourage and a massive range of attractions – shops, 10 to 15 horses per player,” boutiques, eateries ... there’s says Pilar. Whole teams book even a nail bar for the philistine nearby fincas and villas for the few who choose to twiddle their duration of the tournament, fingers during the fast-paced she adds. action. “It’s a different world, sure, As the match progresses, the with connotations of higher thrills build so that retail junksocio-economic classes but ies desert the white-tented it is rapidly gaining popularity shopping village and cigaracross the board,” she affirms. chomping businessmen rise up But even the ‘kings of polo’ are from their cushioned VIP seats, unpretentious. I am spitting the better to cheer on their fa-
Art attack
STANDING GUARD: Picasso
TOP NOTC Polo playe at wo with numb one A Camb (far l blue h
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RGN RN dip ITEC
Health Professional Therapeutic and Holistic Massage Therapeutic Massage: designed to relieve generalised muscular tension for those who work at a strenuous physical job and those who are have a less active, sedentary lifestyle. Deep Tissue/Sport’s Massage: recommended for the remedial treatment of soft tissue damage. This treatment incorporates Soft Tissue Release techniques targeting specific muscle groups Clinical Massage: designed to help people living with a wide range of medical conditions and as a rehabilitative therapy following surgery or a traumatic event. Holistic Massage: a slower, lighter style of massage that encourages a state of deep relaxation, which will leave you feeling relieved of previous physical and emotional tension and with renewed energy
GOURMET: Trucks with treats
Meals on wheels
vourite players through the final suspenseful moments. The polo is what you make of it, ers as is the ‘after-polo’ (if you make ork the guest list), with champers world and Grey Goose vodka flowing ber well into the madrugada,.
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Adolfo biaso left in hat)
Clare Webster
Jilly Cooper famously wrote that ‘polo is a drug only curable by poverty or death’ in her chick lit novel Polo, which she partially researched in Soto. It’s not her finest work but it certainly captures the glamour.
FOOD trucks are spicing up the gastronomic scene in Sotogrande this summer. Fast food with a difference, this movable feast is being served up from four-wheel transport parked up at Santa Maria Polo Club. The trendy trucks manned by accomplished chefs offer a range of international fare, from delectable jamon sandwiches to sugar-coated French crepes to spicy Tex-Mex tacos. Look out for the smokey snacks being served up by Jesus Almargo from his HuMMMo truck, and fried fish from El Senor Martin, the Madrid-based gourmet fish shop. The trucks are up and running from 6pm until 1am on polo match days, and 7pm until 1am on other days throughout the tournament.
“My consultations are holistic in approach and include advice on lifestyle factors aimed to improve general health and well being. These include Nutrition and Supplementation, Routine Exercise and Relaxation Techniques”
Tel: 640 768 649
cwtherapies@gmail.com located: Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro Facebook: clarewebsterhealthprofessional&massagepractitioner
The loafer-and-chino uniform is optional but the unparallelled opportunities for people-watching should be compulsory so get down to Santa Maria Polo Club and enjoy the show!
We will ‘make them speak’! Enjoy Spanish and Michelin-starred restaurant visits with Sotogrande language academy Blah Blah Blah
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HETHER you’re learning Spanish on the beach or doing language exchange with the locals, there’s never a dull moment at Blah Blah Blah Academy. The Pueblo Nuevo-based language school with outposts in Gibraltar, Tarifa and Marbella has a team of 10 highly-qualified teachers tutoring small classes in Spanish, English, French, German, Russian, Arabic and Chinese. Established three years ago by Barbara Moral, the school promises a fun, flexible, communicative approach with exotic extras such as weekend getaways to San Sebastian and a Michelin-restaurant tour. “The students are the reason why we are here,” says charming school director and teacher Barbara, who speaks impeccable English. “Our slogan is ‘We are committed to make them speak’ and that’s exactly what we do
CHATTING AWAY: At Blah Blah Blah
by adapting to their learning style and making sure they integrate with the local community,” she explains. In a recent collaboration between Blah Blah Blah and the Club Mistral in Tarifa, Spanish on the beach was institutionalised to the delight of students - and continues from May to October. Welcoming kids and adults and offering learning bolstered with cultural activities such as wine tasting, orange-picking and Spanish cooking lessons, Barbara is creative, inspiring and, above all, passionate. There is an amazing back-to-school party in the autumn and it is clear that having fun goes hand-in-hand with learning for Moral. “Learning a language is all about communication and our flexibility is key to getting the best out of every student,” she says. She promises that the school makes learning a language fun, interesting and fast with a focus on what is of interest to the students themselves. Everyone is welcome so get in touch and make speaking that language you’ve always dreamed of a reality. Visit Blah Blah Blah Spanish on Facebook, email info@ blahblahblahacademy.com or call 956 796 341
Established in 1980, Blue Sky is the largest property management organisation in Sotogrande and offers its clients a wide range of services. Tel: (00 34) 956 790 464 (0034) 956 790 464 Email: mail@blueskysotogrande.com Web: www.blueskysotogrande.com Blue Sky Property Management Edificio E Local 6-A Puerto Deportivo Sotogrande
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Where to eat
AUTHENTIC: Courtyard at La Finca
Despite a string of new restaurants, it’s a trio of stalwarts that take the biscuit in Sotogrande, writes Jon Clarke
FAMILY FRIENDLY: Hairy Lemon and (top) chef Lorenc
Old school winners
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HERE has been a quiet revolution in Sotogrande over the last couple of years seeing the opening of a string of new gastro bars and restaurants. The most celebrated is Trocadero in the old Cucurucho beach club, which is high on style, but a little lacking in taste. Many of the other newcomers have latched onto the trend for tapas, artfully presented in an
array of avant garde culinary concoctions. Yet, it is a trio of stalwarts - the Hairy Lemon, La Finca and Lombardos - that are still your best bet if you are looking for genuine quality dining.
La Finca is one of those amazing spots that you don’t just discover by accident. Hidden away on an enormous finca, hence the name, just outside Alcaidesa, it is a secret, atmospheric escape
Quarter century of excellence Jon Clarke reviews Sotogrande’s wellestablished Lombardo’s restaurant
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ITH its crisp white tablecloths, candles and fresh-cut flowers on every table, there is something a little different about Lombardo’s. Atmospheric in the extreme, the long-established Italian restaurant transforms the Paniagua business centre courtyard every night in summer. High on customer care and attention to detail it is no surprise that the place has been running for 26 years. “And it is getting busier every year,” explains manager Stefano, who studied languages and business in the UK, before coming back to Spain to take over the helm of the family business. He keeps a keen eye on the quality of ingredients that father Enzo knits together in the kitchen. As well as personally choosing some of the best Italian cheeses, hams and pasta on his travels to the motherland, he also hand-picks many of the wines. It means one of the most exciting Italian wine lists around, with over three dozen different references, even including Barolos, Brunellos and an excellent crisp Pinot Grigio. Foodwise the generous serving of spicy grilled prawns with a rocket salad is a superb starter, as is the Provolone cheese with Parma ham, with oregano and parsley. There are special pasta dishes by the day, including the original Amatriciana, a Tuscan classic, while the veal fillet steak mains, cooked in various ways, mine char-grilled with parmesan and rocket, are extremely succulent. Pudding-wise there is plenty of choice and thankfully a few nice sweet wines to wash them down. STARTER: Prawns Av. de Paniagua, 18, 11310 Sotogrande, Cádiz, 956 79 59 24
that won’t let you down. In summer you sit around a charming leafy courtyard, a riot of colours and candles, while in winter you dine inside the authentic Spanish farmhouse with stone floors and fireplaces. The restaurant is run by New Yorker Chris Cousins and wife Syrie Blanco Walsh, whose family has owned the estate since the 1800s. Much of its success is down to the chef Benny, an amiable Thai/American, whose Thai fusion menu is adventurous with plenty of specials to add to the mix. The Thai soups, summer rolls and ‘sticky rice’ are legendary, while the duck salad starter and the Massaman curry are surefire winners. Another fantastic spot, now in its fifth year, is the Hairy Lemon, and its more formal next door sister The Lemon, in the port. A great place for families, kids can happily run (or bike or scoot) around the square by the fountains and the children’s menu is popular and healthy.
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It is run by chef Lorenc Hunda and his wife Liz May, who worked for years as a waitress while studying business at the University of Greenwich, UK. There is an excellent all-day menu, but its real strength is the excellent range of tapas, which are freshly-prepared each day. There are over a dozen, while mains include a fantastic teriyaki duck breast, with a complex meaty flavour enhanced by a delicious Asian glaze and a zingy wasabi coleslaw. There are plenty of cocktails and you can see most live sports events inside. The last of the trio is Lombardos which has been plying its trade for 26 years in the Paniagua centre. Run by the father-and-son team of Enzo and Stefano, it has a brilliant mix of authentic top-quality Italian dishes and one of the best Italian-heavy wine lists on the coast. That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of good value Spanish options too (see review, left).
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Russia, rosé and running my business
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HEN Consuelo Silva moved to the Costa del Sol from her native Peru in 1986 there was no main road and practically no development. Having studied tourism in Lima and worked in marketing for companies including Hilton and TWA, she believed her skills would set her up well for a life in southern Europe. Landing a job selling land in Marbella’s Sierra Blanca area, things initially looked rosy, but that is when the recession struck. “It was a tough time and I was on the dole for quite a while until I finally got another job,” she recalls. Using her contacts she landed a job working for Sotogrande SA, the company that administers the enclave, learning all about the unique private area. Eventually, she decided to set up her own agency and in 1998 she opened her first office. Some 16 years later and the wellspoken, elegant mother-of-two is well settled in the exclusive resort and her agency is doing well, growing by 20% last year and this year looking even better. “We are incredibly busy this summer and it is a lot of hard work,” she explains. OPAdvert_256x170.pdf 1 “It is vital these days to be up early to deal with enquiries that may have
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Consuelo Silva explains why her Sotogrande estate agency is going through an incredible growth spurt, writes Jon Clarke
INTERESTS: India, wine and president Putin come in during the night,” she adds. It means getting up at the crack of dawn to deal with enquiries at home, before she goes off to the gym, arriving at her office in the Paniagua centre around 10am. But it is a life she clearly enjoys. Talking over lunch at the hip new Trocadero restaurant, she explains: “It is such a privileged place to live, with its wide open spaces and leafy streets. “People are polite, low key and don’t show off and you don’t get the massive queues of up the coast in summer.” A keen bon viveur with a love of wines 8/13/15 6:08 PM (particularly French rosés), she enjoys travelling, loving visits to European cit-
ies as well as more exotic destinations like India. Well read, she likes watching Russian TV channels and is quick to defend President Putin, who she describes as being ‘much more sensitive than you would imagine’ and ‘clearly a good son’. “In particular the Kaiser Report on the RT channel is excellent. It gives me a new perspective on the EU and the West and helps me understand the issues Russians face here,” she explains. So, all in all, not your average Costa estate agent, it is perhaps not surprising that Consuelo Silva is doing so well.
WELL ESTABLISHED: Consuelo has been an agent since 1998
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Magical summers T
FREE: Youth in Soto
August 7 2015 - August 20 2014 August 20th - September 2nd July 24- Aug 6 2014
Ben Bateman of Holmes Property Sales, Sotogrande’s longest established agency, recalls his Sotogrande upbringing
HERE was a time in Sotogrande, not so long ago, when polo was played by the sandy shores of the Mediterranean with the majestic backdrop of Gibraltar and watched by barefoot spectators in sarongs. Ben Bateman, of Holmes Property Sales, remembers the resort from its own salad days. “As young children we would go from the sea to the pool at the ‘Cucurucho’ beach club and then across the road to the golf club to play nine holes of golf and then back to the beach again. “As teenagers because of the secure nature of Sotogrande we had the kind of freedom that allowed us our independence and the opportunity to party at night and spend the days playing sport or on the beach.” Ben’s parents Ian and Jackie Bateman first arrived here in the late 1970s and Ben attended Sotogrande’s highly-reputed international school. “My dad came out here on a golfing trip in 1977 with three friends to play at Club de Golf Sotogrande and Las Aves - now better known as Valderrama and as the host of the 1997 Ryder Cup. “He fell in love with the magical enclave
“It had and still has a very special atmosphere, and we guarded that zealously – we want to protect Sotogrande and the magic that still exists.” Sotogrande was never a package holiday destination and for many people it was either found by accident or they were invited. It added to the sense of pride to be part of this wonderful, privileged estate, that many of the original owners had. Sotogrande is famous for its residents, the cocktail parties and chic elegance. “But not at all in a show-offy way,” Ben says. Although visitor numbers have grown, it’s HISTORIC: The polo grounds stand the test of time still the family-friendly resort its founder and later moved his family out here and beach, opposite the golf club,” says Ben. envisaged, with golf clubs offering famthat was how Holmes arrived in Soto- “I remember those lazy summer days ily memberships and children welcome grande,” says Ben, who has many happy like they were yesterday, when people everywhere. memories of a safe, easy-going child- came to relax and play in this wonderful “Everything has grown – the Cucurucho beach club is now the Trocadero, polo hood with activities galore. estate.” At the time, the two golf courses were When Franco’s border restrictions be- on the beach became the Santa Maria blazing a trail as the first clubs on the tween Gibraltar and Spain were lifted in Polo Club with fantastic installations at The Los Pinos grounds and we have one Costa del Sol. Northern Europeans were 1985, the property market boomed. also being seduced by the year-round Brits could finally buy in this part of Spain of the most fantastic marinas in Europe,” ‘Californian climate’, as promoted by in their own name and cheap travel and continues Ben. Ben’s school - where his children now go trend-setting Filipino-born business- transport links worked in it’s favour. man Joseph McMicking and his wife Sailing, polo, golf, tennis, water sports - was set up out of cattle sheds in the Mercedes, who invited all their wealthy and kilometres of beautiful beaches old Cortijo de Paniagua with 68 students friends to share his secret enclave. brought families here for the entire sum- in 1978. It is now located at La Reserva with over 680 students. “Back then, the polo field was on the mer– and they still do.. He later attended Stowe school in the UK and at the University of Bristol but he couldn’t stay away for long. Likewise, many of his old childhood friends are returning. “There’s something about this place that gets under your skin,” says Ben, whose passion and depth of knowledge about Sotogrande and the property none.” going up – and I expect them to go up market is obvious. Sotogrande is ‘back The agent, who has another office further next year - and we are already His long history and passion on the map’ as experts in nearby Gibraltar, adds: “It is the seeing that with the rental market.” for Sotogrande makes him the perfect place for families to look for Ben Bateman, at Holmes, says prices ideal agent. confirm property a safe environment to bring up kids.” are the same as they were between “I get so much pleasure from It appears that Sotogrande’s near- 2000 and 2002 but appear cheaper helping people find their homes market is going from perfect climate, highly-regarded as, generally, wages have increased and then watching them and international school and wealth of 20 to 30% since then. strength to strength their families enjoying Sotosporting activities will always be a “Sotogrande has really stepped up grande for five, 10 or 15 years,” big draw for families wishing to re- this summer, the atmosphere is buzzhe adds, with a smile. locate here. ing with loads of interest and the ex“It is always sad when families move while properties here continue “It’s a relaxed, easy life here and still change rate is helping for Brits,” adds leave, but on the bright side to be much better value than in Mar- quite unknown which adds to the Bateman. they have loved this place and bella or Puerto Banus.” charm,” explains Monique Westdorp “People are buying – and buying on are now entrusting us to help Well established agent Kristina Sze- of Sotogrande Exclusive. a long term basis.” open the door for a new family kely has offices in both Banus and “I am seeing a real increase in sales Spanish yacht workers in the marina to move to Sotogrande.” Sotogrande, and agrees: “There is and because an American invest- meanwhile confirmed the hub is seeamazing value to be had in Soto- ment group is now in charge, I can ing year-round interest and that, if To contact Ben and the grande, the properties are mostly see people are more willing to buy in anything, winter is the busiest time team, visit www.holmesotoBM sotogrande olive press 2015:Layout 1 14/08/2015 12:39 Page 1 very well-constructed and the cli- the area.” for mooring up while boaters head to grande.com or call mate and space here is second to The Dutch expat finishes: “Prices are Ibiza for the summer months.
Building up nicely! THE Sotogrande crowd are a diverse lot, combining Madrid chic, nautical nonchalance and a dash of bling… and they’re back in town and buying big. It is great news for the enclave’s property experts who are celebrating the recovery of the market from a crisis that shook Spain to its core. They are unanimous that the bargain buys of last year - when prices were at 60% of pre-crisis levels - are now few and far between. “We are seeing a new era for Sotogrande,” says Pueblo Nuevo-based BM Sotogrande director Bradley Falconer. “It’s very exciting, there are new owners, a new vision for the place which is actually in line with the original, historic Sotogrande.” He continues: “The market is on the
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Settling in Soto Jessica Knowles, the wife of DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles, has been writing a blog about moving to the enclave. Here’s an excerpt
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IRSTLY, sunshine makes everything wonderful. I know England has working traffic lights, shops that don’t close during the day, decent television and afternoon tea but here in Spain, we have sunshine. Eddie is nearly a year old now and it is rare for five minutes to go by where he isn’t attempting something potentially suicidal in the house; so it’s great to open the garden doors and play outside.
sotogrande property specialists GLOWING: Nick, Jessica and baby Eddie We go to the beach most days and when we aren’t stopping Eddie consuming vast quantities of sand, we take him in the sea. Unlike Nick, he loves the cold water!
Being able to live such an outdoors lifestyle with Eddie confirms that it was the right decision for us to move here. Follow Jessica on twitter @morejessicarose
l u x u RY B u Y i N G , S E l l i N G & R E N T i N G BM SOTOGRANDE: ViSiT OuR OfficE iN PlAzA MAYOR 5, PuEBlO NuEVO 11311 info@bmsotogrande.com T: +34 956 785 092 or +34 650 736 623
www.bmsotogrande.com
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the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
SOTOGRANDE COSTA - FRONT LINE GOLF
VILLA *Plot: 3.814m2 *Beds: 5 *Spanish style patio *Baths: 5 *Separate dining room *Petanque court *Heated pool *Gated community Price: 4.800.000€ A splendid property ideal to enjoy the exclusive life style that Sotogrande offers with its unique climate, REF: 23034P the polo, the exquisite restaurants and boutiques. In process
*Built: 551m2
SOTOGRANDE COSTA - BEACHSIDE
VILLA
*Built: 2.020m2 *Plot: 3.974m2 *Beds: 16 *Cinema & game room *Baths: 10 *Separate apartment *Separate dining room *Amenities near *Gated community Price on request
In process
Superb mansion ideal for a big family and friends in the best resort of Southern Europe.
REF: 22707P
We still have last minute availability of villas and apartments for summer lettings!! El consumidor tiene derecho a que se le entregue una copia del correspondiente Documento Informativo Abreviado de la vivienda
Tel: (+34) 952 81 01 02 · www.KSsir.com · Email: info@KSsir.com
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20th -June September 2nd 2015 theAugust Olive Press 25th - July 9th 2015
SHELLING OUT: For Calle Granados’ luxury villas
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Street paved with gold The priciest streets in Spain have been unveiled and Marbella comes out on top
MARBELLA is officially home to Spain’s hottest - and priciest - properties. A street in Puerto Banus has been crowned the ‘most expensive’ for luxury rentals. With home prices averaging at €26,667 a month, the rent on Calle Granados is head and shoulders above anywhere else, according to Idealista.com. This lush street in Puerto Banus runs along the waterfront.
Second in line is Calle Monestir in the Pedralbes district of Barcelona. It is the former home of the Infanta Cristina, where tenants pay a mind-boggling €20,000 a month on average. Next up is Barça’s Avenida Tibidabo at €14,732, and the Paseo de Los Lagos in the Madrid suburb Pozuelo de Alarcon at €13,855. Ibiza street Avenida Juan Carlos I costs €10,624 per month.
A home, away
SAVED: Measures may half demolitions
Ronda to the rescue
RONDA town hall will be the first in Andalucia to put into effect urban planning changes that could allow thousands of irregular properties to be legalised. During the construction boom, builders illegally divided rural land to build new houses, many of which were bought up unwittingly by British expats. Maura Hillen, president of the AUAN, a group campaigning to legalise houses, labelled the law change as ‘momentus’. A decree recently issued by the Junta allows homeowners to obtain a licence of first occupation, a pathway towards legalisation of the property, as long as the property is over six years old.
Heat on Junta THE workers’ union in Cordoba is denouncing the Junta for making them work in extreme heats. Andalucia’s agreement with unions declares that between June 15 and August 30, bricklayers are not allowed to work during the afternoon due to high temperature risks, which Cordoba has experienced to the extreme with temperatures rising above 40 degrees almost every day. The union claims that the Junta’s construction inspectors have taken no action against companies which have had their bricklayers working on multiple construction sites after 3pm, even on Saturdays.
SPAIN has been named the number one destination for well-equipped holiday rentals in Europe. According to a survey conducted by HomeAway comparing vacation rentals in Spain, Portugal, Germany, France, Italy and the UK, 42% of Spanish rentals have air conditioning, 57% have pool access and 79% have washing machines available. A small drawback of Spanish rental amenities proved to be internet access, with only 51% being WIFI enabled, as compared to the European average of 53%. Spain came in second to Portugal with 14% of homes having disabled access but fell behind Portugal, Germany and France in family rentals, and behind Britain and Italy for pet-friendly apartments.
Life of luxury LUXURY holiday rentals are on the up across Spain. Home rentals between €3,000 and €8,000 are up 10% across the country. Holidaymakers heading to the Costa Brava and Ibiza are the most likely to spend big, while upmarket shorttime rental properties stood at 80% occupancy in Spain throughout July. Russians accounted for the largest percentage of luxury renters.
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32 32 the Olive Press June 11th - June
At the double THE Hilton hotel group is back on the Costa del Sol after a 40 year absence. The new DoubleTree by Hilton resort and spa opened in Benalmadena this month, making a much awaited comeback. It is the fifth DoubleTree hotel to open in Spain. The resort, with 177 guest rooms, seven conference spaces and four international restaurants, features three swimming pools, a sand sports centre, two tennis courts and 11 padel courts. The Nagomi spa looks out over the ocean, and contains a treatment centre, waterfalls, a Turkish bath and a sauna.
ROOFTOP VISTAS: Hilton in Benalmadena
Keeping it in the family THE ex-mayor of an Almeria town has been sentenced to 18 months in prison and nine years suspension of public service for nepotism. Federico Molina, former socialist mayor of Partaloa, was charged with granting permission to build nine houses on land not zoned for building to one of his relatives,
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24th 2015
who works in the property sector. The judge has decided not to order the demolition of the houses, citing that the area on which they are built is no longer protected. He also pointed out that the current owners of the houses, who are foreign, bought them in good faith.
20th- -July September 2nd 2015 the Olive PressAugust June 25th 9th 2015
Rates on the rise
Foodie heaven A HOTEL in Malaga’s Grazalema natural park has been named among Europe’s best hotels for foodies. The mountains of the natural park might seem an unlikely place to find world-class cuisine, but the park’s charming hotel Molino del Santo has found itself on The Times’ list of Europe’s 20 best hotels for food lovers. British expat owner Andy Chapell, from Guernsey, was ‘thrilled but not shocked at the news’. “It is very exciting for us,” Chapell said. “I didn’t think too much of it when we got a request from The Times for photos, but I’m delighted to have been included.” Molino del Santo has already won a host of awards including ‘the most romantic hotel in Spain’ and played host to a number of stars, such as Jamie Oliver.
ON THE UP: Hotel prices rising in Andalucia
HOTEL prices in Andalucia rose more than any other region in Spain over the past year. According to a study conducted by property expert Trivago, the price of a hotel room in Andalucia rose 22% in the last 12 months. The study named Aragon as the cheapest region to rent a hotel room in August, at €73 for a double room, and the Balearic Islands as the most expensive at €217. The price for hotel rooms across Spain also rose from €101 in 2013 to €124 for this August.
No laughing matter
Capital gains LUXURY homes are flying off the property market in Madrid. The capital’s luxury residential market is the second fastest growing market in Europe. A year-on-year price increase of 6.2% puts Madrid’s market behind only Monaco’s (7.9%), according to Prime Global Cities Index. Across Europe, prices have risen by 0.8% on average.
SHUT DOWN: Summers of fun are over for now
The gates to the iconic Funny Beach resort have been locked almost 25 years after first opening FUNNY Beach in Marbella has been shut down by police. The gates to the iconic beach resort have been locked almost 25 years after first opening, following a go-karting licence violation. Marbella town hall claim owner Horacio Helmann violated the terms of his planning permission by operating a go-karting track on the land. However, Helmann is ‘outraged’ at the decision and claims that the karting arena was al-
ways part of the agreed planning permit. “My business has always been to include a karting track,” he said. “It is also certified by the Karts Federation and has always been part of the agreed deal.” More than 100 disappointed children were turned away from the gates on the day it closed, August 12, according to Helmann. “In the height of summer this is very harsh, they have treated me like a criminal which is totally unfair,” he said.
Top Dollar
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Sol-o venture
POWERHOUSE: Daurella
A SPANISH entrepreneur is set to head up a new European branch of the Coca-Cola company. Sol Daurella is turning her 64-year-old family empire into an international powerhouse after she led a merger of Coke bottlers across the continent. Rewarded for connecting three major companies in Spain, Portugal and Germany, Daurella will be appointed chairman of Coca-Cola European Partners when it is formed later this month. The company will become the largest independent Coke bottler, with an estimated annual revenue of €11.5 billion.
the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
Making a killing It may have its critics but the popular pastime makes a fortune for the government’s coffers NEW figures reveal the incredible economic impact of bullfighting. Despite controversy over the pastimes, €45 million was made in VAT (IVA) for the government last year on ticket sales alone. This figure is 62.4% higher than returns from cinema, which only brought in €27.7 million in taxes. Despite this difference, bullfighting receives no funding from the government, while the film industry will receive €74.54 million for the coming year. The total revenue for bullfighting tickets is €139.9 million compared to the cinema’s €131.8 million. A revenue rise of 8.17% from 2013 to 2014, suggests that despite protests sweeping the nation, the government might not be ready to get rid of such a strong source of revenue.
Corruption goes mobile A NEW Spanish mobile phone app is capitalising on the country’s never-ending stream of corruption scandals. A wily group of Spanish app developers are cashing in via their mobile app ‘Corrupt Mayor Clicker’. The developers MeigaLabs have become an overnight sensation, with more than 100,000 people downloading the game. Available in English and Spanish, players are encouraged to bribe, trade weapons and drugs and make as much money as possible without being caught.
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NEWS IN BRIEF Petrol price plunge FUEL prices in Spain have fallen for the fifth straight week to €1.10 per litre of diesel and €1.27 per litre of petrol.
Disturbing debt SPAIN’S public debt has reached 98.5% of GDP and is expected to exceed national output within the next year.
Business boom THE number of new businesses opening across Spain rose 9.6% from last year, the first increase in the last three months.
Youth revolt THE workers’ union released data showing that youth receive 40% less pay than adults when working the same jobs.
Job boom
MONEY MAKER: Bulls
BANK of Spain chief predicts Spain’s unemployed rate could fall to 20% by the end of 2016.
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the Olive Press August 20th - September 2nd 24th 2015 July 10th -July
‘Pennies do not fall from heaven, they have to be earned on earth’ *Margaret Thatcher
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iving in Spain as a UK ex-patriot should be no deterrent from using a UK fund supermarket platform to self manage and improve the return on some of your savings. Surely it must make sense to try emulating the 49% achieved in four years by the cautious Saltydog Tugboat portfolio, rather than watch your money stagnating in a cash ISA, earning if you are lucky, perhaps 12% over the same period. When I first decided to take control of my finances the world was a very different place from today. There were no ISAs and SIPPs and a supermarket was where you went to buy your groceries. Moving your investments around was frowned upon and inevitably involved the services of an I.F.A. (Independent Financial Advisor). It was expensive, slow, and required the signing of forms in triplicate. At the same time unit trust fund performance data was hard to come by and inevitably out of date. Today this is no longer the case. Now, with the advent of fund supermarket platforms, costs have tumbled almost to zero and changes to your ISA and SIPP portfolios can be made by yourself, on your own computer, at the press of a button. The age of the D.I.Y. investor has
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YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY ANTONIO FLORES
finally arrived. Fund supermarkets are online ‘platforms’ that allow investors to buy and hold a range of unit trust funds from a vast array of fund management companies all put together in one portfolio. The value of this portfolio is ring-fenced and belongs to you and never to the platform. Different platforms have different charges for the service that they offer. There are some people who protect their costs with the fervour reserved for nucle-
ar bomb codes - I however work on the principle that fund supermarkets, just like the grocers Tesco’s and Sainsbury’s, will want your business and therefore will be competitive. Much more important is that the platform I choose carries the largest choice of funds so that I can have the best performing fund in the best performing asset sector at the time that I want it. The fund supermarkets want to help you transfer some of your investments onto their platform. They all have helplines and in my experience the staff are well informed and happy to assist. The table (left) lists a few well known platforms - if you go online and search for ‘fund supermarkets’ you will find many more. This first step can be very frightening for many people, but when it is completed you will wonder what all the fuss was about. I would strongly advise anyone who wishes to improve the performance of their savings to visit the Saltydog Investor website and run through the ‘How to’ section. It will cost you nothing to do this, and then if you wish to go further there is a two months free trial to help you to familiarise yourself with the process. Go to www.saltydoginvestor.com for more details.
Where there’s a will... There’s a new way… as new EU regulations come into play
Short of income? With interest rates remaining stubbornly low, now is the time for your capital to work harder! Invest £50,000 or €65,000 minimum and potential annual returns could be from 3.9% to 5.8%.
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RAFP Ltd, Anderida, Curtisden Green, Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1LE, UK. T +44 (0)1580 212617 E info@ra-fp.com W www.ra-fp.com Richard Alexander Financial Planning Ltd is an appointed representative of LJ Financial Planning Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Registered No: 526007 UK Registered Company No: 7277868
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S of August 17th, EU residents are able to choose whether the law applicable to their succession will be that of the country of residence or that of their nationality. This has important implications for habitual residents of Spain where, owing to century-old laws, children have an automatic entitlement to two thirds of the estate. According to Regulation (EU) No. 650/2012 on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition and enforcement of decisions, acceptance and enforcement of authentic instruments in matters of succession and on the creation of a European Certificate of Succession, this choice […] shall be made expressly in a declaration in the form of a disposition of property (will or codicil), or shall be demonstrated by the terms of such a disposition. In essence, the regulation recognises that the choice of law can be made expressly or impliedly. To avoid uncertainty, habitual residents of Spain who already have a will (Spanish or foreign) need to check if it contains a term or terms that indicates that the national law, sometimes described as personal law, will apply to the inheritance. Most wills I have come across do
state this when noting that the testator’s wishes are in accordance to his or her national/personal law, which in my opinion – and that of most lawyers - suffices and therefore, a new will is not required. Where there is no provision to the effect in a will and the testator wishes to avoid the application of Spanish succession laws, we recommend drafting a new will introducing a clause of choice of applicable law. To avoid doubt, it is important to stress that the regulation does not deal with taxes as these are - unavoidably to be paid in Spain in respect to […] assets located in or rights that are fulfilled or exercised in Spain, irrespective of whether the testator is a resident of Spain or not. Finally, the regulation introduces a European Certificate of Succession to avoid lengthy, complex and expensive legal procedures where a foreign will is to be enforced in a member state. Note: please be advised that the UK and Ireland are not taking part in this regulation and are not bound by it or subject to its application. Therefore, the European Certificate of Succession will not be issued in these member states.
Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.es
Phone home EXPATS calling their home countries can wrack up a fortune in phone bills… fortunately there is a phone provider looking out for those living abroad. MasMovil is offering renewing Spanish customers an extra 50 minutes of international calls for free. The offer which runs until August 31, allows those living in Spain to extend their bundle deal in order to make calls to other European destinations, the US as well as Asia. For more information visit www.masmovil.es
Expats online POPULAR expat social network Internations is celebrating its eighth birthday next month. Billed as the world’s largest social network and information site for expats, Internations boasts more than 1.8 million users in 166 countries around the world. The site allows expats to network with one another, providing social and professional opportunities and creating a virtual community. Expats who want to join Internations must sign up on internations.org with an email address before their membership is approved. The site has enjoyed explosive success in recent years, more than doubling its membership and staff since 2012.
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Understanding the ‘helper syndrome’
them both in and out of surgery and out for accessing information and communication. Specialists at the Hospital General Universitario de Alicante and La Fe de Valencia hope the glass could allow doctors to access patient information, film the operation and collaborate with others through the images during surgery. Concerns have been expressed, however, about the limitations on peripheral vision and effects on vision, which could distract a doctor VISIONARY: Google glass during surgery.
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INCE I started to appear in the Olive Press a few months ago I have had an incredible amount of people randomly bowling up at my front gates. Mostly wanting to work with me in one form or another, they promise this and that and, it is fair to say, a lot of them are rather odd. What I have noticed with this bizarre form of ‘jobseeker’ is that, generally, they do not take care of themselves. I know you should never judge people by appearances, but it tells me immediately that they suffer a form of the ‘helper syndrome’. This is when somebody elects a ‘helper’ occupation, such as a therapist, counsellor or healer in order to fill in a gap in their lives. This could be from the classic empty-nest syndrome when a child leaves home or from a complicated work-life situation they left behind in their home countr y, thinking a life in Spain would be so much easier. However, what they have not understood is that happiness is a state of
Children’s Eye Health By Amrik Sappal, Store Director, Specsavers Opticas Fuengirola
O
When should I start taking my child to the opticians? Children should have their first eye examination at around three years old but, if you are concerned, don’t wait until then. The sooner any vision problems are discovered, the better the chances are of correcting them. How can the optometrist examine my toddler’s eyes when she can’t read? Opticians can assess their eyes without your child having to read by using instruments to measure the focusing ability and the health of eyes, using shapes, picture books and other materials to help children indicate what they can see and how clearly. We also have special charts for young children who don’t know their alphabet and methods of checking whether the eyes work properly together. Are there any signs I can look for to suggest there is a problem with my child’s
Southern Spain is the land of many opportunities, but even more lost people, writes Martina Willis
MY
Valencian hospitals reintroduce controversial Google Glass in the operating room
VER the years working as an optometrist, I have had a lot of questions from parents about their children’s eye health. So this month, in preparation for their return to school in September, I wanted to focus on this important issue.
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August 20th - September 2nd 2015
The looking glass GOOGLE Glass could be making a comeback - in hospitals. Although the tech giant took the wearable computer device off the market for further improvements, several doctors in Spain are starting to adopt the controversial technology. It allows people to film, take photos, browse the web with a nod of the head and view results from the corner of their eye. The hospital network in Valencia has introduced Google Glass into their urology department, where doctors have been using
the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
eyesight? There are a few signs that could indicate a vision problem in children including: sitting too close to the TV, rubbing their eyes repeatedly, complaining of headaches, being clumsy or squinting. Why is it important to have an eye test before they go back to school? During the first 12 years of our lives, as much as 80% of learning is accomplished through our vision. But as many as one out of every four children has an undetected vision problem that may inhibit their progress. Experts believe that learning disabilities could be vision related as they may not be able to read the blackboard or textbooks. Specsavers Opticas is currently offering free back-to-school eye tests. There are Specsavers stores in Marbella and Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol. To make an appointment or find your nearest store visit www.specsavers.es.
being and NOT doing. And as long as they adopt a ‘helper’ occupation in order to fill this gap in their lives, they will never succeed in their occupation. At The Source Of Wellbeing I am looking for therapists who have found their inner source of wellbeing, exactly that, and radiate this state of being to our clients. They need to act as role models when guiding our clients to achieve a balanced body, soul and spirit. Our beauty therapist Jade is one such example and loves and breathes this state of being from the inside out. When you are in her presence you feel immediately lifted and her heart is reaching out for you.
Exasperation
Tina, our yoga instructor is the same, making you feel at ease and content the second you step into her presence. However, these types of professionals are sadly few and far between in southern Spain. And I’ve stopped counting how many times I have felt sheer exasperation after interviews. But it would not be me if I could not see an opportunity in seemingly negative experiences. To this end, I’m starting a weekly meeting for local women called ‘We First’ next month. In these sessions, we will share stories of how we learned and found the courage to put ourselves first and how we found our own inner source of wellbeing. Ultimately it means we can share this experience with our family and friends and, of course, give hope to other women who want to find more fulfilled lives.
Landline: +34 951 20 43 06 Mobile: +34 673 293 333 www.thesourceofwellbeing.com martina@thesourceofwellbeing.com
Request a FREE eye test online at specsavers.es or by calling your local store.
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Top Salud Seeing off sciatica
36 June 11th - June 24th 2015 the Olive Press 35
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August 20th - September 2nd 2015
S
OUCH: Pains in the lower back, hip or running down the leg are signs of sciatica
CIATICA has been afflicting mankind since the dawn of, well, mankind. Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, described sciatica thousands of years ago. However, it was two American surgeons, William Mixter and Joseph Barr, who published a landmark paper in 1934 documenting that the inter-vertebral disc was responsible for their patients’ pain. Only then did surgical treatment for the condition become more widely accepted. Sciatica is a common condition, characterised predominantly by pain running down the leg, and around 5% of the population will experience it at least once. The symptoms of sciatica are pain, numbness, weakness
In the first of a monthly advice column, empowerment expert Louise Van der Velde talks interfering friends, marriages that lose their spark and sex parties!
Spice up your life!
W
ELCOME to my Dear Love Doc column in which I hope to help expat couples and singles to master their lives and relationships. After years of working with couples, I believe I have discovered the answer to making relationships work and I will endeavour to answer all your questions privately or via my Olive Press column.
Dear oc Love D
Too much sexual tension with a female friend DEAR Louise, I’ve been in Spain for eight months, but my ex-boyfriend has lived here for years and has a lot of friends, many of them women. I grew to like them, but one of his female friends proved to be too much of a problem. He used to buy her dresses and take her out socially, aways paying. She made sexual banter and even offered him sexual favours. I found out she even gives other married men such favours. I tried very hard to be friendly with her, but she just seemed jealous of me, and my boyfriend - like most men would - clearly played up to the attention, siding with her and insisting I should simply deal with her. In the end it got too much and I recently had to leave him, which has left me heartbroken. What shall I do now? I miss him and I still love him. PJ, Marbella Answer: Sadly there are a lot of jealous, competitive people in this world. Opposite-sex friendships work only with boundaries and respect, so your boyfriend needs to step up and be on your side. You have done the best thing. Stay strong, stay away and know your worth. One of two things will now probably happen. Either he will leave her and stand by you realising that you are not being unreasonable. Or he will stay away, and if he does the latter then you are better off with out him. The only people who decide what is acceptable in relationships are the people in them... stand strong and it will all work out well one way or another.
Should I attend a sex party? My partner keeps trying to get me to go with him to a sex party. I want to go with him but I am scared and don’t know how I would handle seeing him sleep with other women. He says he’d just like to take me so we can have a threesome. I like this idea, but will jealousy get the better of me? JJ, Costa de la Luz
Answer: I have run these parties for couples before, as it happens and I believe they CAN save relationships and actually stop infidelity... but it’s essential to set the ground rules before you go. Many people who go for the first time do not, in fact, get involved, and that’s perfectly OK too. Remember, it is the girls who should always make the rules. It is fine to go along on a ‘fact-finding’ mission the first time and do not be afraid to be very clear on what or who you want to play with. Your emotions are normal, this is about you, your partner and you both feeling good.
No sex for three years I’m 56 and my wife is 58, we have not had sex for three years, and it’s really becoming an issue for me. It seems she has shut off this part of our relationship quite happily, but I’m thinking about sex more and more and have even considered seeing someone else. I love my wife and have always been faithful, What shall I do? Will finding a lover on the side help me cope? A.D, Mijas Answer Get help before you consider straying. It would be a shame to spoil your marriage unduly. There are many things that can be done to put the spark back. Hormones play a big part in this and they can be balanced. There are a series of exercises you can do to rekindle the passion. Massage and tantra is great, for example, and expecting to dive straight back into sex after all this time is not the way forward. Talk to her, tell her you would like to get things back on track in the bedroom, and be prepared to do whatever it takes. Email Louise at louisenlp@gmail.com or visit www.loveliferetreat.com
Sciatica sufferers have a very good chance of overcoming the pain quickly if properly diagnosed, writes consultant orthopaedic surgeon Andrew Clarke of Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital and pins-and-needles. The intensity of the pain varies from mild to life-altering. Fortunately, most people recover quickly without the need for invasive medical treatment. Even Hippocrates noted that within 40 days, most were rid of their pain. The most common cause of sciatica is a ‘slipped disc’. This is when a piece of the middle of the disc (nucleus) protrudes backwards into the spinal canal, where the nerves are located. On rare occasions, a massive piece of the disc fills the whole of the spinal canal and can cause problems with the passing of water, bowel opening and sexual function. This is called ‘Cauda Equina Syndrome’, as the nerves of the spine at this level look like a horse’s tail. This represents an emergency and urgent medical attention is required. There are many other reasons for sciatic-type leg pain though, which can be explored by your healthcare professional, if the symptoms are not resolving with standard treatment. The diagnosis of sciatica is predominantly clinical, based on the patient’s story. However, if the pain is not settling with time and simple medication, then an MRI scan is a sensible way to go about assessing the problem at hand. Treating sciatica on the whole is very successful without an operation: most people will get better within six weeks. During that period, they may require analgesia, such as
anti-inflammatory drugs and if really severe, neuropathic pain drugs such as Amitriptyline or Gabapentin. However, if the pain is so severe, and nothing is helping, an epidural injection can be performed. Finally, if none of the above is successful then surgery can be undertaken, where the disc material is removed from the spinal canal to bring about relief. Thankfully, surgery is only required in about 5-10% of cases and has a good chance of bringing about significant pain relief. The key is to consult a suitably qualified medical professional who can advise on the appropriate course of action. The Exeter Nuffield hospital has long history of providing high-quality, successful treatments for sciatica. Among its many fully qualified and experienced surgeons is Daniel Chan, voted one of the best spine surgeons in the UK by the Daily Mail. The leading private hospital, in Devon, is located just minutes from Exeter airport. For more information, email Exeter.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com There are daily flights to Exeter from Malaga and Alicante for much of the year. For many expats, the comfort of having such important surgery undertaken in the UK is well worth the cheap round trip
If you can’t stand the heat... SUNTANS, vitamin D and increased energy are well-loved benefits of warmer climates. But there are less desirable side effects that health experts are keen to remind the public of in summer months. Be on your guard for apathy, crankiness, bad moods, and even mental health problems, say scientists at the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM). “Moderate heat puts you in a good mood and gets you out more but past a certain level it can make your body shut down,” said doctor Valentin Martinez-Otero.
Ebola: one year on
A YEAR after the Ebola epidemic, is a cure on the horizon? The Hospital La PazCarlos III in Madrid, where Teresa Romero was treated, will begin testing an Ebola vaccine this autumn. The experimental vaccine, which has demonstrated 100% success rate in previous trials, is called VSV-ZEBOV and contains a bovine strain of the disease. The vaccine has previously been used to treat 4,000 people in Guinea at the height of the Ebola crisis.
FIRST: Teresa Romero The hospital will also be studying the effectiveness of their treatment of Romero, the first case of Ebola outside of Africa.
23
The Olive Press’
OP Robo profs
ROBOTS are set to become Spain’s newest secret weapon on the educational frontline. However, there is nothing to fear as Dash and Dot, the resident robots of a growing number of Spanish classrooms, are designed purely to teach. The turquoise ‘toys’, eerily resembling disembodied eyes,
Girl power rules in academia WOMEN outnumber men at universities across Spain. In total, 55% of Spanish university students are female. The gender imbalance in higher education has become
X
38 monthly youth and education section
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
treme
Cash boost for books
CLEVER: Machines are flexible to both age and ability. They can start fiveyear-olds off with xylophone lessons or teach high school students how to programme Android apps.
ANDALUCIA will receive €1.4 billion in education grants. The central government will also receive €72.2 million in LOMCE funding, despite education minister Adelaida de La Calle slamming the 2013 law change as ‘ineffective’. De La Calle said that the law creates 17 different models of education, and asked for an overhaul of the current ‘unmanageable’ system. The Andalucian school system will also receive €24 million for textbooks, an increase of 10.8% from the previous year.
School’s out… for too long?
typical of developed nations in Europe and around the world. In the UK, the ratio of men to women in university is virtually identical to that in Spain.
SPANISH students currently enjoy the longest school holidays in Europe, going a whopping three months with no classes… but that might be about to change. At the moment, children in Spain get a break from midJune until mid-September. However, a growing num-
• Psychology FIR • Speech Therapy INTE ST RVIE • Occupational Therapy W F R EE • Early childhood Therapy • Daily workshops for children up to 3 years old (8am - 3pm)
Education experts claim the current three-month break means kids simply ‘forget how to study’ ber of organisations are calling for schools to cut their summer break after Carlos Martinez, the head of
the IMF’s business school, said it was affecting their development. “There is evidence children
Free speech for all
SPAIN has upgraded its language tests to take diverse regional variations into account. The new SIELE qualification is said to be more accessible than the previous Spanish competency test, the DELE. C/Terrero Monesterio, 37. 11360 San Roque (Cádiz) It has been released by the Instituto Tel numbers: 956 694 234 / 618 516 377 Cervantes, a worldwide non-profit organisation that promotes Spanish laninfo@centroimpulso.com www.centroimpulso.com guage and culture through education. Facebook: Centro de Estumulacion y Desarrolo Impulso Gaston Golf - Olive Press - revised:Layout 1 21/07/2015 16:47 Page The 1 SIELE is computer-based, and
grades listening, reading, writing and oral fluency on a 1,000-point scale. It is intended to match the English IELTS (International English Language Testing Service) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). By incorporating different variants of the language, the test seeks to promote the equality of the different Spanishspeaking populations.
simply forget how to study,” said Martinez. “Long holidays also have an impact on working parents who are unable to take time off.” “It is not surprising that these groups are calling for change.” As well as having the longest summer holidays, Spaniards also enjoy more bank holidays than anywhere else, with 10 national and two regional days off each year. CEAPA, a parents representative group, has lined up a proposal to spread out holiday days more evenly throughout the year in line with our European neighbours who, on average, get more time off at Christmas and Easter.
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Columnists
39the Olive Press June 11th - June
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It’s normal to feel isolated when you arrive in Spain and a gym is a great way to feel part of the community, writes Sarah Simone
39
August 20th - September 2nd 2015
Hitting the ground running: how the gym in Spain is an exercise in perseverance
T
HE gym was beautifully modern, with air conditioning and flat screen televisions, and it was located below a block of flats on the outskirts of Salamanca, where I live. To be more exact, it was located below my flat. I tell you this because now, in revealing that it took me five months to finally join, you will have some idea of exactly how lazy I am. I decided to join after seeing a picture of myself and discovering that my body resembled vanilla ice cream melting on top of a cone. I approached a slim and smiley receptionist who took my details. I instantly felt suspicious of anyone who could use the same tone to describe medieval torture as they would a spa day. Eventually, we secured the easiest options. They were Pilates, spinning and step. From what I had learnt on the internet, Pilates was more about breathing correctly. After 25 years without any major complaints from my doctor, I assumed it was something that I was close to mastering. After realising I couldn’t understand the instructor’s directions, I propped myself up and looked across at the woman next to me for guidance. She
24th 2015
BREATHE DEEP: Perfect Pilates
Olive Press BLOG OF THE MONTH - to view more visit www.theolivepress.es. To begin blogging yourself, contact newsdesk@theolivepress.es was in her mid-60s but seemed more fragile, and was a little slow and shaky. Perfect role model, I thought. We began with our backs on the ground and our hips in the air. Breathing, of course, in a controlled manner, and as expected I was excelling. Suddenly, the woman next to
me swung backwards and her body transformed into a perfect arch, with her feet inches away from her salt-and-pepper perm. I attempted this several times, my legs in the air, and every time I collapsed, English profanity echoing in the hall. Forget it! I said finally to the sea of flexible pensioners.
From bullfighting to kung fu fighting
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HEN you think of the art of the bullfight (and I’m using that word advisedly, trust me) you think of the apparent grace of revered matadors such as Manolete, the mere mention of whose name makes ancient aficionados go all misty eyed. And they have to be pretty ancient, as the great Manolete met a sticky end from the business end of a bull called Islero in the 1940s. At a recent bullfight in Marbella, however, matador Morante de la Puebla showed that bullfighting is apparently embracing martial arts. The bullfighter was celebrating the third kill of the afternoon when an anti-bullfighting protester ran shirtless onto the bloodied sand. This enraged Morante to such an extent that he charged, somewhat like a wounded bull, at said protester, leaping into the air and delivering a kung fu kick, à la Bruce Lee, at him. (As an aside my own karate skills are more akin to Loose Brie than Bruce Lee, but I digress). The startled and winded protester was then nabbed by a combination of police and bullfighters and bundled off. I think that this move could mean the start of an exciting new phase of the “noble art” and I can’t wait to see the next 500-kilo fighting bull that Morante comes up against. He’s bound to prove how manly he really is by getting rid of all that
I fell back onto the mat, and my Pilates class turned into an hour long nap. I liked the step instructor. He was a young man of around 30, with thin tattooed legs and a huge stomach. His neon yellow tank top and purple cycling shorts brought out his deep tan and, above all, I liked how he called me ‘butterfly’ and said that my bum looked like a pumpkin which was quite motivating. And I can honestly recommend step. It’s fun and challenging. I have no coordination and sense of rhythm, yet I managed to eventually get the hang of it. Spinning, however, was hugely underestimated. Some were giving it all the energy of the Tour de France, whereas my pace was closer to Sundays in the park. Joining a gym in a foreign country is a fantastic way to relieve all of the stress of being in a strange and new place. For me, just one month of fast-paced cycling reduced my stress levels and transformed me into a calmer, more capable person. And for the remaining four months after my membership expired, Doritos and salsa on the sofa also did the trick.
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KICKER: Matador flying high cape and sword business and taking the bull on, unarmed and using only his new-found martial art skills. After all, the Chinese are a growing market for all things Spanish, so this Kung Fu Corrida could be the next big thing. I’m not holding my breath though!
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SPAIN may be one of the world’s biggest wine producers but the majority bypasses Spanish bellies. In fact, Spanish wine consumption is among the lowest in Europe, at just 17 litres per person per year. And putting it to shame, Spain’s closest neighbours top the list of Europe’s vino vultures.
Tipple
Portugal, France and tiny Andorra sweep the top three spots, guzzling the grape at an impressive annual rate of 55, 53 and 48 litres per person, respectively. The UK tips the middle of the tipple scale, with each Brit drinking 30 litres of wine each year. The numbers come from the World Health Organisation’s recent report on global alcohol consumption.
The Portuguese and French are Europe’s greatest guzzlers of the grape
WINE GUZZLER LEAGUE 1 - PORTUGAL 2 - FRANCE 3 - ANDORRA 15 - UK 27 - SPAIN In 2014, Spain exported 2.3 billion litres of the red, white and rose stuff, putting it ahead of France and Italy as the world’s biggest wine exporter, and third in terms of production.
Local issue 42:The Local Issue 5 9/12/13 11:52 AM Page 51
FOOD & DRINK www.theolivepress.es with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com A CHIRINGUITO in Barcelona has come up with an inventive incentive to clean up the beach and pull in the punters. In exchange for a cupload of collected cigarette butts, thirsty beach cleaners are rewarded with a free shot of their favourite tipple. It’s all happening on Castelldefels beach in Baix Llobregat, where the owners of the Tibu-Ron chiringuito are making a clean sweep of the shoreline to stub out the dirty litter habit. The business hopes to spread awareness about how dangerous leaving cigarette butts on the beach is. Cigarettes take 20 years to naturally degrade and contaminate three litres
Kicking butt
Red is dead
Green-thinking bar owners are fighting fire with fire - trading fag ends for free drinks
of saltwater per discarded butt. They are the most commonly-discarded piece of waste worldwide, adding up to an incredible 770,000 tonnes of litter.
A dog’s life,
Determined to keep it green, the bar owners have also begun recycling plastic waste and putting the proceeds towards children’s cancer research.
by Eddie the hotel hound
A tail of two traumas
I
the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
T was the worst of times. It was NOT the best of times. Two major traumas for me since my last column. Firstly on a walk by the river - usually the highlight of my day - the dog from hell suddenly appears from nowhere and attacks me. His owners go crazy, throwing themselves on the ground. Madness. It gets worse. I get bitten on my flank. Blood is drawn and according to the other owners I am to blame. Attack is the best form of defence they
say. This is not attack, this is downright lying. And then great nephews appear. Aged three and six, on a 17 day visit – but I can’t count so it seems interminable. The older one can throw a decent stick and ball, but the younger one takes to poking fingers in my eyes, confusing me with a climbing frame or hiding my food bowl where I can’t reach it. Fret not though. Toys are brought to appease me, and the wound is healing. There is light at the end of this fairly dark tunnel.
To get in touch with Eddie, contact his owners Andy and Pauline at the Hotel Molino del Santo. Bda Estacion s/n, 29370 Benaojan, Malaga. 952 167 151 - 952 167 927. info@molinodelsanto.com
Daring to be different
COCOMO Cocktail Bar & Restaurant Reservations recommended
685 218 054 Next to the Plaza Hotel
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the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
Ingredients for 4
FLOWER POWER by Steven Saunders of the Little Geranium
The power of pork
O
NE busy day at The Pink Geranium restaurant I took a call from Lord Brocket (owner of Brocket Hall estate, home of several UK prime ministers and Lord Melbourne). In a spot of bother he said he could do with a chat about the hall. It turned out that Lord Brocket had buried his Ferrari collection in the grounds of Brocket Hall to claim some insurance money and he needed to lease the estate to protect it else it may be in danger of repossession. Anyway, after many discussions with the management we agreed that I should run the golf club restaurant and operate the weddings. So on the launch day we invited all the local high and mighty. And one of the dishes was Iberico Pork which I cooked nice and pink with Moscatel sultanas. Someone complained it was far too raw, to which I explained it was meant to be that way. It is free range and the pig is fed on acorns so there’s no chance of Salmonella so you can and should eat it pink! Enjoy.
2 x 400gm approx. fillets of Iberico pork 1 small pack of Moscatel sultanas (approx. 150gm) soaked in cooking Brandy for an hour or so. 250 ml of red wine sauce (red wine stock made from gravy granules with garlic red wine and onion and passed through a sieve ) Squeeze of honey Squeeze of half a lemon Olive oil for frying Half a wine glass of red wine 50 gm of unsalted butter A dessert spoon of double cream (Nata para Cocina) Fresh tarragon leaves for garnish 1 tbsp of Barbeque seasoning Maldon salt and black pepper to taste
Method Trim the sinew off the pork fillet and season it with BBQ seasoning, salt and pepper. Add sultanas to brandy marinade juices and red wine and reduce until thick. Pan fry the pork (or BBQ) until brown and reduce the heat and cook for five mins turning all the time. Add honey, butter and cream to the sauce Cut the pork into medallions. Serve and pour the sauce around and drizzle a little over. The pork should be medium pink verging on medium rare. Finally sprinkle some tarragon leaves on and around the dish.
Steven Saunders FMCGB www.thelittlegeranium.com steven@thelittlegeranium.com 0034 952 49 36 02
Drink pink
PUERTO de Indias Strawberry Gin is eye-catching for its colour alone, while its fruity flavour is also leaving aficionados of the juniper-based spirit tickled pink. But those are by no means its only credentials. In the space of a year, Spanish manufacturers Alcores de Carmona have rung up €5 million in orders for their pink gin, which they now export to the UK, Portugal and Holland. Part of its key to success is the revolutionary automated production method, which has been streamlined to turn out 12,000 bottles daily. It’s also highly rated for its locally-sourced ingredients - strawberries from Huelva and herbs from the Andalucian countryside. As a change from traditional gin and tonic, food critics recommend adding fresh strawberries and juniper for extra oomph.
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Located on San Sebastián (arguably the most photographed street in Spain) you’ll discover the Costa Del Sol’s most unique dining experience. The Secret Garden is nestled amongst an ancient olive and orange orchard where Argentine BBQ is prepared in front of your eyes. Not to be outdone, located on the same idyllic street, we have Meguiñez & Grapevine Patio, specializing in Spanish wines and modern day Iberian cuisine set in a traditional Andaluz ambience. Then again, if seafood is your forte why not give our newly opened Latitude 36° Seafood Grill a try!? We’re proud to have opened Mijas Pueblo’s first truly dedicated seafood restaurant and the reviews have been very positive. Lastly, if tapas are your thing, you must put Bana Bana on your list! Enjoy our original and award winning tapas while savouring the cityscape views. Our Basque chef will delight your tastebuds with her miniature gastronomic creations! See you soon in Mijas!
Calle Sebastian 8, Mijas Pueblo +34 952 590 393
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the Olive Press June 11th - June 24th 2015
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World’s top chefs on tour Owners of Spain’s number one restaurant, the Roca brothers, are heading to the USA
Green cuisine ONE of Spain’s most esteemed chefs is campaigning for the country’s restaurants to take a greener approach Eneko Atxa, the youngest of eight Spanish chefs currently holding three Michelin stars, is urging his contemporaries to follow his lead towards a sustainable future. Atxa’s Biscay-based restaurant Azurmendi is set in the midst of 40 acres of vineyards and kitchen gardens, where he grows his
THE world’s top chefs are upping sticks and heading Stateside… but don’t panic, they’ll be back! Girona-based Roca brothers, of the world’s top eatery El Celler de Can Roca, are jetting off for a three-week USA tour to show off their food. Bringing a taste of Spain to the States, the Roca boys will be setting up pop-up diners across the country. Starting in Miami, Jordi Roca said the boys are ready to expand the brand. “We’ve been doing exactly
the same thing for the past 29 years,” he said. “Evolving of course, but we have been working with the same joy and same commitment and excitement. “Lately with more resources at our disposal, our team has grown and we are looking at new ventures.” El Celler de Can Roca was named the world’s best restaurant at the World’s 50 Best Restaurant awards in London in June. It has won twice and come second three times.
THE Big cheese ECO-FRIENDLY: Atxa organic produce. Established in 2012, it was recently named the 19th top dining place in the world at the 50 Best Restaurant Awards in June.
A SPANISH cheese has been lauded at the Oscars of the food world, the Great Taste Awards. The Artzai Gazta Idiazabal cheese, made from Basque sheep’s milk, was the only Spanish product to feature in the Top 50 tastiest products at this year’s awards ceremony. The cheese received a three-star rating, the highest ranking at the awards. Several Spanish products received a two-star rating, including Vieiru Olive Oil and Cantabrian anchovies.
L
FOOD & DRINK with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com
ITTLE did I know when I joined the Olive Press that my assignments would include hosting a cocktail party for my colleagues (ED: Where was I?). Push aside the mojitos, this unexpected job perk was all in aid of trying out four traditional Spanish cocktails: kalimotxo, tinto de verano, sangria and Andalucia’s own sherry nice take on your maiden aunt’s favourite tipple, rebujito. Since it’s no fun drinking alone, I naturally invited my workmates to sample the drinks with me, after office hours of course! (ED: Just as well) Three of the cocktails are quite straightforward, but there are myriad variations on sangria. After scouring the Internet for recipes, I made up a cocktail of my own using white wine and peach liqueur instead of the more typical red wine and brandy. I started preparing the sangria a few hours ahead of time, since it’s supposed to sit for at least two hours (some say as long as a few days) b e f o r e serving, so the flavours can mix. It was a doddle to make. I cut up the fruit, deposited it in a pitcher, drenched it in wine, liqueur and several spoonfuls of sugar, then a quick stir and into the fridge it went. When my sampling panel arrived, we immediately started in on the sangria. Unsurprisingly, this fruity, citrus concoction was the night’s biggest hit - white wine with knobs on! I opted for a dash of lemon Fanta in mine for an extra-refreshing touch. Next up was the rebujito, a tonic and sherry mix served over ice at feria and recently reported in the Olive Press to be the cocktail of the summer. I used Tio Pepe and, no offence Rob, but it was a bit dry for my taste. Most of us had a few sips and then left our glasses to fizz quietly on the table, much to Rob’s chagrin… providing a great excuse to make more, perhaps with a sweeter sherry, or lemonade instead of tonic. Kalimotxo is an icon of Basque culture although it’s drunk in
Last of the mojitos
“We’ve just had a wonderful stay in an outstanding hotel in a beautiful place being looked after by an amazing group of people! The family all want to say a mighty thank you to Andy and Pauline for everything they did to make this stay such a memorable event. We must also say thank you to every member of staff who, each in their unique way contributed so much to our enjoyment. Molino del Santo is very special and so is everyone who works there. Thank you all!” David and Marian B, 12th August 2015
Move over mojitos, push off piña coladas, Spain has its own cocktail book of long, tall summer drinks that refresh the parts stronger concoctions only inebriate. Olive Press reporter Caitlin Quinn shakes up a storm Sangria blanca
1 bottle of white wine 1 bottle of lemon Fanta (add to taste) 150 ml fruit liqueur (e.g. peach) 1 chopped nectarine 1 chopped apple 1 sliced lemon ½ sliced grapefruit 150 ml granulated sugar Combine fruit, sugar, wine and liqueur in a large pitcher and stir. Chill for at least two hours, then stir well, crushing fruit to release flavour. Serve on the rocks, adding Fanta to taste.
Rebujito
½ bottle of Tio Pepe 1 bottle of tonic water 1 juiced lime ½ sliced lemon Suggested ratio is one part Tio Pepe to two parts of tonic water. Add lime juice and lemon slices and serve on the rocks.
Kalimotxo
Award-winning Molino del Santo near Ronda
1 bottle of red wine 1 bottle of Coca-Cola One part red wine to one part Coca-Cola, served on the rocks. many other countries under different names including, worryingly, motorina (diesel fuel) in Romania and mata moscas (fly killer) in Argentina. This super-simple cocktail made with red wine and CocaCola was more successful. I was a bit apprehensive, since I don’t like Coca-Cola much, but the wine balanced out the soft drink’s cloying sweetness. We finished the night off with
tinto de verano, a classic cocktail consisting of red wine, white Casera or lemon Fanta and a few slices of lemon or orange. Simple, refreshing and inoffensive, the tinto de verano was the perfect end to one of my most enjoyable assignments yet. Better still, none of us paid for it with a resaca (hangover) next morning! (ED: And somewhat unbelieavably).
Punjab Palace Indian Restaurant
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the
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Nervy nineties Dearth of doctors ABOUT 45% of Malaga province’s doctors will retire within 15 years, according to the concerned College of Physicians.
FINAL WORDS
Record-baking JULY 2015 was Spain’s hottest July ever, according to an Aemet weather report, with a combined night and day average temperature of 26.5 degrees Celsius.
Plugged in A GROUP of 26 Andalucian youths received treatment this year for Whatsapp and social media addictions.
Turtle trouble THE number of turtles living in a pond in Madrid’s Atocha railway station has reached 250, spurring concerns about overcrowding.
ONE of Andalucia’s oldest residents is set to cross into triple digits this week. Herbert Finch, from Lancashire, UK, is a decorated war hero and turns 100 on August 22. Family and friends from all over the globe will fly in to Mojacar to help him open his congratulatory telegram from the Queen.
Disabled justice By Caitlin Quinn A WOMAN has been fined €800 for photographing a police car parked in a disabled parking space. The Spanish resident, from Alicante, posted the picture on Facebook, captioned: ‘You park wherever you please and on top of that you won’t be fined’. The irony, however, backfired when she was fined under the controversial new Citizen Security Law, popularly known as the ‘gag law’. The unpopular law has allowed the government’s more
Gag law leads to woman being fined for daring to show hypocrisy of police parking in a disabled bay
closely regulate and restrict free speech and is meant to be about restricting the rights to protest. The law also however forbids ‘the unauthorised use of images or personal or professional data of law enforcement authorities that could
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OFFENDING SNAP: Police car in disabled bay endanger the safety of officers, or official operations’. Police spokesman Fernando Portillo insisted the officers had parked in the disabled space out of necessity. He said they were responding to a vandalism report and were ‘in a rush’ to catch the vandals in the act.
Too sexy for Facebook
A SPORTS club has been expelled from Facebook for having a too-sexy name. The Sexitano Athletics Club, whose name comes from the original Phoenician name Sexi for modern-day Almunecar, was rejected by Facebook monitors for ‘sexual connotations’. The sexitanos finally managed to secure a page under the name Atletismo Çexitano.
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Fired for filling his pool
ANNE Hathaway and her husband Adam Shulman have been on holiday in Ibiza. The couple joined Robbie Fairchild and Tiler Peck from the New York City Ballet for a yacht trip, and then snorkeled before lunch.
Brave face BADMINTON world champion Carolina Marin managed to keep a straight face as event organisers mistakenly played the old fascist national anthem during the Jakarta medal ceremony. She was forced to listen to the Franco-era lyrics, written by fascist poet Jose Maria Peman, as she picked up her gold award.
The photo, he insisted, was an attack on his officers’ honour and decided to fine the woman. It came despite Petrer town hall recommending ‘other solutions’.
RONDA’S fire chief has been sacked after using an official fire truck to fill his swimming pool. Juan Pimentel maintained that the truck needed to be emptied due to a fissure and he used his swimming pool out of necessity. It was not the first time he had filled his pool in this way, it has been alleged, and protocol would normally be that he emptied it into the town hall’s municipal reserves.