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SPANISH housebuilder Taylor Wimpey Espana bled its annual sales has douThe subsidiary of this year. the British company has already five developments, sold out ish sales up 37%. with BritMeanwhile, German buyers have leapt by an astonishing 160%, fuelled mainly by sales in Mallorca. Marc Pritchard, marketing director,sales and been a really good said: “It’s summer this year. “It’s been at least five years since I’ve experienced such an intense level asm for Spanish of enthusiNew Costa del property.” ments popular Sol developgolfers this yearwith British Floresta Sur nearinclude La and Miraval at Mijas.Marbella
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Controversial Almoraima sale comes off the market after campaign by Olive Press and visit from Hollywood actress Salma Hayek FULL STORY PAGE
A LUXURY PROPERTY company has become Malaga to float the first in on the stock exchange. Obsido, a Spanish-Norwegian company, the Mercado debuted on Alternativo Bursátil (MAB) this month at a price of €19.40 per share. The company currently manages two properties pona and Marbella. in Este-
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Vol. 9 Issue 223 www.theolivepress.es
October 1st - October 14th
EMPTY VOWS EXCLUSIVE By Iona Napier
AN expat wedding planner has left a holy man out of pocket after taking thousands for an alleged fictional ceremony. The Benahavis church hand is now taking legal action after event organiser Jeff Gurner, failed to repay €5,000 he borrowed ‘to pay up front for wedding musicians’. After months of trying to reclaim his money, Bernard Gallagher, 75, discovered that the claimed nuptials never actually took place. Gallagher claims he was led to believe that the wedding was to take place at the Andalucia Plaza H10 on July 10. However, the Olive Press has confirmed that no such event
Man-of-the-cloth left thousands out of pocket amid claims mystery wedding didn’t take place
took place at the Puerto Banus hotel on that weekend. And even Gurner, who runs Love Weddings Marbella, himself was unable to confirm that it took place, when confronted last night. “I can’t believe that these men of the cloth are ganging up on me. I’m going to sort this all out and get the money back as soon as possible,” Gurner said, from his home in Estepona. He refused to comment on whether the wedding had taken place or not. Gallagher, who has lived in Spain since 1981, believed
he was helping ‘a true friend’ when he coughed up €5,000 in two equal instalments – but failed to take a written receipt of the loan. The holy man, who works at Benahavis church, insists he was promised full repayment plus €750 (15%) in interest within three weeks. In an email seen by the Olive Press and dated July 7 the agreement is clearly laid out, with plans to meet the following day. However, after making the payments Gallagher has lost contact with expat Gurner, whom he says has left him in
ANGRY: Gallagher lent wedding planner Gurner €5,000
the lurch after several unanswered pleas. “He has taken advantage of me, and must be laughing at my stupidity,” Gallagher told the Olive Press. “I made a serious error of
Not one, not two, but FOUR celeb exclusives Who’s Elliott Wright got his arm around? Has Salma Hayek saved the Almoraima estate? Where has Peter Hain bought in Spain? And why’s Freddie Starr ‘shaking hands with the devil’?
judgement – he signed nothing at all because I trusted him… but the agreement is clear and the deadline is well up.” He continued: “I just want to know if I will get my money or not as I am well out of pocket.” It emerges however, that he is not the only one, with Catholic priest Kevin O’Boyle also owed €750 for officiating two weddings on the Costa del Sol in May and July. Despite confirming the lack of payment, he insisted on turning the other cheek. “Let’s just say let bygones be bygones,” O’Boyle told the Olive Press.
Catalan boss in the dock CATALAN president Artur Mas is to face the high court on October 15 over last year’s unofficial independence referendum. Mas, whose Junts pel Si party secured 62 of 135 seats in Sunday’s regional elections, defied Spain’s Constitutional Court by holding the nonbinding vote on November 9. Former ministers Irene Rigau and Joana Ortega will also appear before judges this month. Prosecutors summoned Mas, this week, accusing him of contempt of court, obstructing justice, abuse of authority and misuse of public funds. While Mas laughed off the case as mere ‘political orchestration’, he and his deputies could be barred from public office if found guilty.
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CRIME NEWS
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CRIME IN BRIEF Don’t blame Harry PRINCE Harry’s Lebanese playboy pal Fidelio Cavalli, has been charged for flying 1.5 tonnes of cocaine into Spain and operating a drugs network worth €95 million.
Sniffed out A NOTORIOUS Colombian hitman nicknamed ‘Snoopy’ was among seven arrested in Mijas for planning the murders of three Marbella businessmen.
Prison bullies A PRISON doctor is suing bosses over a case of ‘harassment and bullying’ in Jaen, accusing the medical director and another colleague of ‘threats, injuries, coercion, harassment and bullying’.
Traffick jam POLICE are launching remotecontrolled mini submarines in Valencia in a battle against drug trafficking.
Pill popping A MELILLA drug mule has been arrested for ingesting 102 hash capsules before boarding a ferry to Almeria.
A GANGLAND war is ‘in danger of exploding’ on the Costa del Sol. It comes after the killing of key gangland figure Gary Hutch sparked panic among Spanish and Irish authorities. The hit on Hutch was reportedly ordered after he stole over €100,000 from Estepona-based drug lord, Irishman Christy Kinahan. Irish police now believe ‘heavies’ from the notorious Kinahan clan are Dublin-bound to punish other ‘untrustworthy’ drug associates. Under the clampdown, they are reportedly after ‘Fat Freddie’ Thompson, a key distributor in Ireland who has also been pocketing profits for himself. First lieutenant to Kinahan, Hutch, 34, was shot in the back three times at his swimming pool in Miraflores. His attacker was seen fleeing in a balaclava and his getaway car was found burnt out later in Cabopino. A previous attempt to bump off
Killer coming home EXCLUSIVE
October 1st - October 14th 2015
Execution could spark gangland drug battle on Costa del Sol
GANG WAR By Rob Horgan
Hutch last year resulted in the accidental shooting of British boxer Jamie Moore, outside son Daniel
LUXURY: Noye and Zahara home
CONVICTED killer Kenneth Noye could be on his way back to Spain. Two-time convicted killer and mastermind of the the Brink’s-MAT gold bullion robbery, Noye, 68, is set to be released from UK prison within the year and has his sights set on Spain, an Olive Press source revealed. The crime mastermind hid out for two years on the Costa de la Luz, before he was arrested for the murder of Stephen Cameron, 21, beside the M25, in 1996. Despite being ‘Britain’s Most Wanted’, police took two years to track him down to his stunning multi-million euro villa in Atlanterra, near Zahara de los Atunes. The isolated home sits in stunning grounds and has been allegedly maintained by his family, during his time inside. “It is a stunning place and he is definitely planning to come back,” the source told the Olive Press. “When he was hiding out there he was very careful about what he did and where he went.”
WARRING: Kinahan and (right) Fat Freddie
Kinahan’s Estepona home. dering in Belgium. Irish police now fear things could During that time he had allegedly en‘blow up’ as Hutch is the nephew trusted his operation to his son Daniel, of 1980s Dublin kingpin Gerry ‘the who also lives in Estepona. Monk’ Hutch. When released, Irish police predictThe killing has also been linked to ed there would be a clampdown to the murder of Gerard ‘the Hatchet’ reclaim money taken from Kinahan Kavanagh 12 months ago. while he was in prison. Kavanagh, another Kinahan asso- “Police are wary that there are gociate with links to drug trafficking, ing to be more killings on the way was shot nine times by masked men both in Ireland and Spain,” a source in broad daylight in Elviria. told the Olive Press. “These things The Olive Press was the first paper rarely happen alone… there on the scene and reported on the are normally a few in quick broad-daylight carnage that left succession.” bullets sprayed around a busy He added: “Luckily the Nasquare from two balaclava weartional Police and Guardia ing crooks. are being strengthened with His death and the hit on his brother an extra 10,000 jobs over the Paul Kavanagh in March were next year, mostly on the also allegedly ordered by the costas. Kinahan empire. “There are more poBoth brothers are said lice being assigned to have stolen from to airports and the clan. train stations, The bloody clamplargely in connecdown comes two years tion to terrorist since crimelord Kinagroup ISIS, but han got out of prison, also to keep an after a four year seneye on gangland tence for money laun- ASSASSINATED: Hutch activity.”
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NEWS
www.theolivepress.es
October 1st - October 14th 2015
Falling Starr
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Comic Freddie’s attempt to escape UK justice in Spain has been anything but easy, he tells the Olive Press HE was, no doubt, hoping for a return to the happy holidays he spent on the Costa del Sol in the 1980s and 90s. But fallen comic Freddie Starr’s return to Spain has been marked with controversy, after being accused of trying to escape UK justice. Indeed, as he admitted to the Olive Press, this week, his purchase of a home in Mijas has, in fact, done little to cheer him up. After cashing up in England in a bid to escape a libel bill amounting to over a million pounds, he admitted he was now ‘shaking hands with the devil’. Adding he was almost suicidal, Starr said: “I’m very down. I’ve been up there and I’ve shook hands with God and I’ve come down here and I’ve shook hands with the devil.” Speaking outside his La Cala
EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan Hills bolthole, he insisted it had not been his intention to flee justice over the failed libel action he took against a woman who accused him of sexual assault. Cutting a shambolic figure and talking slowly and painfully, he said: “I have had a quadruple bypass. It wasn’t a matter of planning anything. I always come to Spain anyway. I love it here. “I didn’t run away because of the court case. If you haven’t got socks, you can’t pull them up. I’ve got no money plain and simple.” Happily showing his horrific chest scars from the bypass operation, he explained how he was now trying to put together the pieces of his shat-
MILLER TIME: Sizzling Sienna DOWN AND OUT: Starr is trying to repair his tattered life, he has claimed tered life. Describing Karin Ward as ‘full of lies’ for claiming she was groped by him, he now hoped that Spain would offer him some sanctuary. A long-time visitor, who once owned a holiday home in Benalmadena, he continued: “The people are nice down here, I enjoy the lifestyle and weather.”
An emotional Starr also recalled his last appearance on stage and the moment he realised the curtain on his career had finally fallen. “I was trying to get back to work in my wheelchair. I had the oxygen bottles on the back of my wheelchair and I was fighting for my breath.
The Only Way Is Marbs… or La Cala de Mijas!
A TOUCH of TOWIE glamour wowed the opening night of Elliott Wright’s stylish new Costa del Sol champagne bar. The reality TV star boogied the night away with new girlfriend Sadie Stuart, 23, and a host of The Only Way is Essex regulars. Jessica Wright, Ferne McCann and Sadie flaunted their figures as they hit the dancefloor at Olivia’s in La Cala. And as the drinks flowed, businessman Wright revealed how happy he was to be with Sadie and to have the cast of the popular TV show at his new restaurant. “It’s was a fantastic night and it was great to see all the TOWIE cast,” he told the Olive Press. “They’re like my family and I love the programme.” He continued: “And it’s great being with Sadie...we’re very happy.” Despite insisting he had left the show, he is once again set to feature in the new TOWIE series, which kicks off with another ‘Marbs Special’ in October. And on top of that, he has even roped his new squeeze, a singer from London, into taking a turn, although she will not be-
come a regular. She told the Olive Press: “It’s been great. I’ve only got a few short cameos where he introduces me as as his new girlfriend. “However, I won’t be going back on the show when it returns to Essex... I’m going to stay out here in Marbella. Who knows what the future holds?” Elliott’s cousin, TOWIE star Jessica, who celebrated her 30th birthday this month, was also delighted to be at Olivia’s. She said: “I’m happy to see Elliot’s new restaurant. It’s stunning. We’ve been here most nights. I am really proud of him.” Meanwhile, fellow reality TV star Ferne, 24, had her dancing shoes well and truly back on after a recent foot injury, which left her on crutches. She said: “My foot is still quite swollen, but it’s so much better. It was a netball injury and I had torn two ligaments in my left ankly but I’m all good now and boogying away.” The entire TOWIE crew have been filming in Marbella for a week with some of them set to stay for another week.
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“They said ‘Freddie Starr’ and I knew as soon as I walked on that I was in trouble. “I said, ‘Sorry ladies and gentlemen, you have paid good money but I just can’t perform’. “They understood, gave me a round of applause and I said, ‘This is the last time you will ever see me on stage.’” He concluded: “I used to be the biggest paid person in Britain for 15 years but all of a sudden it has stopped.” Starr, who was driving a silver Mercedes, moved into his gated property around two months ago. Locals said he was often seen in bars around the complex and seen eating in various restaurants in La Cala.
Sienna stuns San Sebastian SIENNA Miller wowed fans at the 63rd San Sebastian film festival in skin-tight gingham dress and heels. Arriving straight from London Fashion Week, the actress and model was promoting her new film, High Rise. The week-long event premiered 45 films and saw British actress Emily Watson receive the Donostia Award in honour of her work.
Straight Outta Casemates!
DANCE-OFF: TOWIE girls and (top) Elliott and Sadie
IT’S not quite the streets of Compton, and it’s certainly no 8 Mile Road, Detroit. But for New York rapper Beniton the Menace, the Rock of Gibraltar was super phat and right on the money! The artist has recorded the promo video to ‘This world’ at the top of the rock, with several Barbary macaques as backing dancers. Beniton is already a self-declared lover of Gibraltar, having performed on stage with reggae star Maxi Priest at the National Day concert this year, as well as the 2014 event. “I was there a year ago and the love was tremendous,” he said. A new movie, Straight Outta Compton, about the life of legendary US rap band N.W.A, has just been released.
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NEWS
www.theolivepress.es
NEWS IN BRIEF
In the doghouse!
Golden ticket
EXCLUSIVE By Rob Horgan
THE launch of the ‘Happy Days’ children’s charity event on San Pedro’s boulevard will see Disney characters on display from 2-4pm on October 10.
Drug den TWENTY Moroccan men suspected of trafficking drugs and committing violent robberies have been arrested by Guardia Civil in Alicante and Malaga along with 30kg of hash.
On trial THE trial of a Santiago couple accused of drugging and killing their Chinese adoptive daughter has caused a Beijing foreign minister to launch an investigation.
Fraud bust SIX alleged fraudsters suspected of running a massive €250,000 bank card fraud have been arrested by police in Granada, Merida and Huelva.
October 1st - October 14th 2015
A CAMPAIGN to remove a dressed-up dog from his homeless owner has been launched in Malaga. The owner is accused of forcing his dog to wear sunglasses and a police cap, and also placing a studded collar around his neck to stop him from moving. The spikes on the collar allegedly dig into the dog’s neck when he moves, allowing his owner to keep him in check as a street performer. More than 10,000 people have signed a change.org petition addressed to Malaga town hall, following allegations of animal abuse.
Water fight
Expats slam judge’s decision to make them pay for their neighbours’ water leak two decades ago EXPATS are battling a water company after being billed for flooding damage two decades ago. Despite not being their fault, they are being ordered to share a bill of €37,000 for the accidental flooding of three homes. An incredible 1,500 people around the La Calera urbanisation in Coin have been ordered to pay water company Communidad de Regante del Nacimiento de Coin. A judge has backed the decision to make the neighbours responsible for the flooding of three
houses on the estate in 1997. Anyone refusing to pay their share now, will be hit by a further 10% charge in the future. The company has ordered payments by September 30, each based on the property’s size. It means that those who have bigger homes, are having to pay up to €100 extra. One couple, expats Jill and David Summerell, 62, have slammed their bill of €72, insisting it is entirely ‘unfair’, particularly as they didn’t live there 18 years ago. American Jill, 60, told the Ol-
EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan & Iona Napier ive Press: “I did not own my house here then, so why do we have to pay? “We received no information, just a bill on August 25 saying we had to pay by September 30. I had to go to the office to find out. It is just not right. “Does that mean we have to keep paying these horrendous amounts if this happens again? Where do you draw the line?” Affected homeowners are charged €0.006cm per square metre, with the Summerells property 12,000 square metres in size.
The Summerells already pay a maintenance charge of €50 per year to the company, on top of €200 for unlimited water. Another expat victim being billed €18, told the Olive Press: “I never moved to Coin until mid 2001 so how can I possibly owe money for something which happened 18 years ago? “I’ve paid all my taxes and charges, but this one takes the biscuit and I won’t be paying it.” Carmen Perez, a spokesperson for the water company told the Olive Press the charges were unavoidable and that while it had flooding insurance now, it didn’t 18 years ago.
Opinion Page 6
Ashya attack
THE parents of brain tumour patient Ashya King have been slammed for putting their son ‘at risk’ by taking him to Spain. Brett and Naghmeh King have been deemed ‘irresponsible’ for discharging him from a UK hospital and fleeing to Malaga. The Portsmouth Children Safeguarding report supported staff at Southampton hospital where Ashya was being treated.
At risk
However, it added there was evidence the relationship ‘deteriorated over time’. “This resulted in the parents removing their child, without discussion with staff, in order to take him abroad where they thought they would be able to access the services that they considered best met his needs,” it added. “This action put him at risk.” The six-year-old has since made a promising recovery following proton beam therapy in Prague and his family have moved back to the UK from their home in Casares.
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NEWS
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September 17th - September 30th 2015
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FEATURE
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August 6th--October August 19th www.theolivepress.es October 1st 14th 2015 2015
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OPINION Flood gates open IS there no end to Spain’s austerity measures? It is one thing to be caught out for tax evasion but to be billed for flood damage for a neighbour’s home nearly 20 years later is frankly absurd. The fact that half the residents didn’t even live there back then is by the by. Alarmingly, reclaiming old debts is becoming a recurring story around Andalucia as town halls and urbanisations attempt to fill their depleted coffers by any means possible… be it through parking tickets, old utility bills or trumped up maintenance charges. Had half these town halls not stolen money over decades they might not need to do this today.
The Scottish question
THE Catalan elections have clearly clouded Spain’s political waters. Artus Mas may claim victory for his pro-independence Junts pel Si, but failure to secure a majority of votes weakens him. The left wing CUP’s ten representatives gives secessionist parties a majority of seats, but they remain fiercely critical of Mas and his centre-right politics, so any alliance could prove difficult. Spanish leader Mariano Rajoy meanwhile, refuses to allow an independence referendum off the back of the result, but the facts are that five years ago around 25% of Catalans wanted to break away. Now it’s nearly one in two. Friction along Spain’s regional fault lines has echoed over the centuries. It will rumble on for a good while longer. Perhaps Spain should do what the British dared to do in Scotland last year and give the Catalans a real chance to choose. It would be a gamble, but at the end of the day it would be true democracy in action.
Helping hand
IT may not seem all that noteworthy, in the grand scheme of the migrant crisis. But for at least one lucky family which Gibraltar is about to welcome into its community, life is about to start again. New school, new jobs, new shops, new friends… and it is hard to think of a better society for welcoming the needy and making them feel at home. This sends out a message that Gibraltar wants to help, and people like Dan Teuma, on the ground in one of the most hectic refugee camps in the world, personifies that message.
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olive press
Tel: 951 273 575 (admin) Accounts: 658 750 424 Sales: 692 725 475 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. Iona Napier Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: B91664029 iona@theolivepress.es 951 273 575 Joe Duggan Carretera Nacional 340, km 144.5 joe@theolivepress.es Calle Espinosa 1 Admin / Distribution / Accounts: Edificio centro comercial El Duque, planta primera, 29692 San Luis de Maria González Sabinillas, Manilva accounts@theolivepress.es Printed by Corporación de Medios Mirian Moreno de Andalucía S.A. admin@theolivepress.es Editor: Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es Newsdesk SALES TEAM: newsdesk@theolivepress.es Chris Birkett Head of Sales Tel: 665 798 618 652 512 956 Stephen Shutes 671 834 479 Tom Powell Sarah Adams 655 825 683 tom@theolivepress.es Axarquia Rob Horgan Charlie Bamber 661 452 180 rob@theolivepress.es
As Europe tackles the growing refugee crisis, Rob Horgan reports on the radical change in mindset to a harrowing human exodus that has been building for years
A
SYRIAN toddler lies dead, face-down on a Turkish beach. It was just one photograph but this powerful image brought about a dramatic U-turn in attitude to the refugee crisis. From ‘somebody else’s problem’, the epic migration of people fleeing their war-torn homelands suddenly became very real, touching the hearts and minds of billions around the world. With notable exceptions, the EU’s open border Schengen countries have agreed to accept migrant ‘quotas’, keeping their frontiers open to thousands of refugees in what has become a Europe-wide humanitarian mission. Spain is no different, agreeing to take in 17,931 migrants by the end of the year. Even little Gibraltar which, like Britain, is not part of Schengen, is in discussions with London to play its part in the refugee intake. The power of public opinion has, perhaps as never before, had a drastic impact on government policy Europe-wide. However, that mood could turn again as the implications of the sheer numbers of migrants hit home… and, in any case, the
driver of the crisis with four million people – nearly a fifth of the population – having fled the country since the savage civil war broke out in 2011. Many who have been virtually imprisoned in migrant camps across the Middle East with nowhere to go are now seizing their moment to join the exodus to Europe.
Hopeful
Car seat camouflage IN what police described as one of the more ‘bizarre’ immigration attempts, two Moroccan citizens were detained for attempting to smuggle a 20-year-old Guinean across the Melilla border, disguised as a car seat. They removed the padding in the seat and placed the man inside the frame, then covered him with a cushion. Then one of the passengers sat on him throughout the entire journey. current ‘crisis’ is anything but a new phenomenon. Migrants from African war zones have long been making the desperate journey to a new life in the ‘promised land’ of Europe, seeking work, asylum and a better life.
Long-running conflicts have displaced a massive 1.1 million refugees from Somalia, 2.59 million from Afghanistan and tens of thousands from Eritrea which has been dubbed ‘Africa’s North Korea’. Syria though is now the biggest
The true scale of the problem can only be guessed at. But an estimated 19 million people worldwide have so far been forced to flee their homes, with 42,000 others joining that number daily. Thousands of hopeful migrants camp outside the fenced borders of Spanish Ceuta and Melilla, attempting to earn and save enough money to make the dangerous crossing to Europe. The most desperate have attempted to pull off hazardous and often fatal schemes for evading border control, highlighting the utter desperation of their situation. Here the Olive Press looks at the various ingenious and often terrifying ways in which they attempt to travel.
Show of independence
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Desperate journeys
Record Catalan voter turnout cannot be seen as a frontrunner for the independence movement
O
NE thing is a regional election. But another thing is a referendum to determine if a sector of a large population wants to break away from a country that people no longer feel they need to sustain them in the future. The Catalans clearly liked their pro-independence leaders’ choices on such matters, including their proposed separatist drive plans. On Sunday, voters in the northwest region gave hearty support to the pro-separatist coalition Junts pel Si which took 62 of the 135 seats in the local parliament, while fellow pro-indepence party CUP took ten It wasn’t such a surprise that the independentistas were given such a clear victory. The biggest eye-opener, however, was the amount of people who came out to cast
ballots on Sunday. Voter turnout was measured at 78% – the highest ever in Catalunya. Yet the remarkable number of ballots cast cannot be seen as a bellwether for the independence movement. It was a show of force by many Catalans who wanted Madrid to hear what they had to say about where they believe their future lies. More than half the seats in the regional parliament went to parties who do not support the separatists’ plans to detach themselves from the rest of Spain. The divisions in Catalonia are clearly deep and haven’t changed much since before the elections. There was no dramatic swing from one side to the other.
MADRI M ATTERD bitterly S
Catalans are split over the issue, which will only go to show that the next government will face serious challenges in its everyday affairs. Artur Mas’s stubborn drive to make Catalunya a new European country has left a bitter taste in the mouths of most Spaniards. Whether he is elected to stay on as regional premier, Mas will struggle to mend the holes he made in his relationships with Spanish institutions and the prime minister himself. The only way he can repair the damage done is by abandoning his plans for an immediate unilateral breakaway from the rest of the country and concentrate on the dayto-day administration of his region.
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Peril on the sea MANY migrants risk their lives crossing continents by sea in craft ill-suited to the tides and currents. Dinghies are most commonly used but pedalos and even surfboards have been used to cross the Straits.
FEATURE
August 6th--October August 19th www.theolivepress.es October 1st 14th 2015 2015
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Border control
SPAIN is opening its borders to more than 17,000 refugees by the end of 2015 – a major U-turn from Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy who originally said there was room for just 2,749. With unemployment running at over 22%, the government said it couldn’t meet the 5,800 refugees the EU had asked it to take in July. But after the recent ‘crisis’, Spain has now promised to take the much larger number.
This however, is ‘not even half the number’ it should be taking, according to Madridbased human rights activist Ussama Jandali. “Refugees in Spain only have six months of protection by the government,” said Jandali. “During this time, refugees receive only €50 each month – which is not enough to cover costs – and they are given Spanish lessons, which are insufficient.”
Rubbish ruse SEVEN migrants, nearly half of them minors, made their bid buried in rubbish. They were discovered inside shipping containers full of junk metal and two technicians had to be drafted in to extricate the men, who were rushed to hospital with asphyxiation.
Suitcase smuggler
From the Rock to the Jungle
WHEN he first stepped into the ‘jungle’ refugee camp in Calais this August, Dan Teuma didn’t quite know what to expect. Nowadays the camp has become his second home. Gibraltarian Dan didn’t know what to do with his life after returning from Australia this year, but now he has one of the most unusual but necessary jobs in the world. As a refugee liaison officer, he wakes up at 5am before spending the entire day in the camp, meeting refugees, hearing their stories and working out how CalAid can help them. CalAid is the organisation set up by Dan, girlfriend Jaz O’Hara and a small group of friends, with the help of volunteers. “There was a negative feeling behind the whole crisis which we wanted to avoid, and instead find the human stories behind the headlines,” Dan, 29, told the Olive Press. “Calais is one of the world’s worst refugee camps which people don’t expect, because it is in France. “CalAid will continue raising money and putting donations into the camp throughout the winter. “Our main focus is to make sure that these people have food, tents and warm blankets. This is literally saving people’s lives,” he added. CalAid has so far raised £157,000, as well as vanloads of donations of clothes, tents and blankets. HELPING HAND: Teuma
AS a 19-year-old woman dragged along a heavy fuchsia suitcase, she looked warily towards security on the Ceuta border. Noticing her discomfort, hawk-eyed Guardia Civil agents pulled her aside. What they did not expect to see when passing the suitcase through the x-ray machine was the silhouette of a little boy, curled up inside. Fortunately Abou, 8, survived his ordeal and told the guards he came from the Ivory Coast. His father, Ali Ouattara, was arrested but later released when he proved that he had paid for his son’s visa, and was neither acquainted with the smuggler nor privy to the illegal suitcase plan. The boy was granted a temporary visa to remain with his mother in Spain, her legal home.
Spare tyre squeeze SOME migrants have risked suffocation, severe burns and fuel contamination by hiding inside vehicle engines. Crossing into Melilla, three youths were discovered hiding in the body of a car with Spanish plates, curled up with barely enough air to breathe. One was contorted inside the space reserved for the spare tyre, and was unable to breathe properly or stand up when he was extricated. The other two men were concealed below a false floor.
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Labour love in ONE is the left-wing politician hoping to revolutionise the UK. The other is a socialist veteran, adored by the people he led for eight years. So when Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (left) met Gibraltar’s former Chief Minister Joe Bossano, they were never going to be short on conversation. Bossano, 76, was at the Labour party conference in Brighton, where he hosted the Gibraltar Government Reception.
POLITICAL NEWS
August 6th - August 201514th 2015 www.theolivepress.es October 1st -19th October
We won’t back sleaze! Fellow independence party insists alliance with Catalan President is unlikely… due to corruption claims
CATALAN independence party CUP has put a break on Artur Mas’s drive for separatism. A coalition would give separatist parties a majority of seats in the regional parliament. However, the left wing party insisted an alliance with Catalan President Mas’s Junts pel Si party is very unlikely.
By Joe Duggan The party doubts Mas’s suitability as a leader, citing his alleged links to corruption. “We represent two very distinct social projects,” said CUP spokesman Josep Manel Busqueta. “For us, independence isn’t
RALLY: Of support for Catalan independence just about breaking off with the Spanish state. “It is also about a break with the policies of austerity, corruption and privatisation.” Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy will continue to stand firm against
You right little Miss! A BEAUTY queen turned councillor has caused controversy after demanding town hall coffers pay for monthly flights to the USA. Ex-Miss Sevilla Carmen Lopez, 42, is insisting Castilleja de la Cuesta council pays for regular flights to and from Chicago, where she has relocated for family reasons. The Ciudadanos councillor, who won her beauty crown in 1991, insists she is unable to meet the costs of the flights. She is now facing party disciplinary proceedings for her ‘behaviour contrary to the principles and values of Ciudadanos’. A party spokesman said: “Serving the interests of a small town of 17,000 inhabitants from over 6,000km away is a bit difficult. “To represent these people properly you have to be on the ground to understand the problems locals have.” FLYING LOW: Lopez
Catalan independence claims. Rajoy, whose party lost 128,700 votes and eight seats in the elections at the weekend, now faces a testing general election in December. Rajoy said: “I am ready to listen and to talk, but not in any way to ignore the law.
Support
“Supporters of a break away never had the backing of the law, and they do not have the support of a majority of Catalan society.” Rajoy’s party now commands only 11 seats in the region after the PPs poorest Catalan election performance in more than 20 years. Rajoy believes the 47.8% polled by secessionists isn’t a democratic mandate for a binding referendum.
Opinion Page 6
Gagged again SOME would call it little more than a rant. But police have used a controversial new gag law to label a Pizarra man’s ‘disrespectful’ Facebook post a crime. Locksmith Juan Carlos Puyoles faces a fine of up to €600 for posting a comment about the ‘lack of officers’ when he couldn’t respond to an emergency due to being blocked in by cars. He added he had just seen a number of officers drinking coffee in a nearby village. The man was confronted by officers the following day and slapped with the fine.
ETA blow THE two leaders of Basque terrorist group ETA have been arrested in France. David Pla, 40, and Iratxe Sorzabal, 43, were detained in the Pyrenees by police working alongside Spain’s Guardia Civil. Interior Minister Jorge Fernandez Diaz described the arrests, along with two colleagues, as a ‘death certificate for ETA’. “Two belong to ETA’s political leadership, the topmost leaders and the most wanted,” he said.
GIBRALTAR NEWS
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Grand opening THE University of Gibraltar has officially opened its doors, with over 2,400 visitors descending on the Europa Point campus during the inaugural weekend.
Quick word CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo grabbed British Prime Minister David Cameron at the recent Blenheim Literary Festival to remind him of the issues concerning Gibraltar’s waters.
Brighton Rock GSLP minister Joe Bossano addressed the Brighton Labour Party conference where he spoke of the fraternity between the two political parties.
Able sub DEPUTY Governor Alison MacMillan has been sworn in as interim Governor until the next appointment is made.
Safe haven EXCLUSIVE By Tom Powell
GIBRALTAR is launching its own humanitarian effort to help the current migrant crisis. The government has confirmed to the Olive Press that at least one refugee family is to be welcomed to the Rock. Discussions are currently underway with authorities in London over who to choose, and what Gibraltar would need to provide. “We want to make sure we get the right family who will settle comfortably into our community,” confirmed government spokesman. “It means they will probably have to be English-speakers,” he added. Meanwhile, another Gibraltarian has broken records raising money for impoverished migrants camped in Calais. Dan Teuma, 29, has amassed a staggering £157,000 to help struggling families hoping to enter the UK. His big-hearted campaign began after an eye-opening visit to the migrant camp with girlfriend Jaz O’Hara, 25, in August. Originally planning to make a documentary on the camp -
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the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
Rock welcomes refugee family while one Gibraltarian raises £157,000 for Calais ‘jungle’ camp
ON the Rock October 4, Classic static vehicle display. Organised by the Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association, this is a day for classic car enthusiasts on the Rock. Casemates Square - 10am to 3pm. Info at www.gibraltarclassiccar.com/2015/09/
SUPPORTIVE: Angela
Rippon on the Rock
October 6, GIDA European presen-
SHE is most famous for her legs, but now TV newsreader Angela Rippon has lent her fame to support a new Alzheimer’s and Dementia Society conference. The event, held at The Convent Ballroom, in Gibraltar, focused on understanding the condition and making the enclave a ‘dementia-friendly’ community. Rippon is a long-time supporter of the society, becoming an ambassador in 2009 after the death of her mother, who had dementia.
tation. The dance event leaps into John Mackintosh Hall from 19.30. Tickets from ICC pet shop, info from Anne-Marie Gomez on 540 271 11.
October 10
, Alameda Gardens Tour. ROCK RELIEF: Gibraltarian Dan Teuma helping People wishing to attend refugees in Calais camp should meet at George Don Gates, Grand Parade known as ‘the jungle’ - he was “I remember JustGiving callat 10.30am for a walk so moved by the plight of the ing us to say we had raised around Gibraltar’s botanic group of mostly Africans and so much money, a record in gardens. Syrians that he decided to fact, that we needed to take serious action.” launch an appeal instead. Money that had been raised CalAid is helping provide reffor the film through website ugees with tents, clothes, food JustGiving was then chan- and water. nelled into a new organisa- “I think it’s important for Gibraltar to see that it can make tion CalAid. “We couldn’t believe the level a difference away from the GIBRALTAR will be dressed in pink this Friday with the of support we were getting,” Rock,” added Dan, who still Rock set to support Cancer Research UK. visits three times a year. Dan, a proud llanito, told the The charity has called on everyone to don an extra item of “I want Gibraltar to become Olive Press. pink clothing to raise awareness of breast cancer, and subglobally-recognised as a helpsequently improve rates of early detection and treatment. ing-hand when these kind of The event, now in its 11th year, also includes the Walk For crises occur. Life on Saturday 10 October. “One day, when I’m done travThe sponsored walk is open to all ages and abilities, atelling, I plan to move back tracting over 1,000 participants last year. home and help set up a welRegistration takes place on the day and costs £5.00, with THE Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce has called for a government fare organisation,” he added. warm-ups for the walk beginning at 10:45 in Casemates crackdown on unregistered employees in its election wish list. Square.1 21/07/2015 16:47 Page 1 Opinion Page 6 Gaston Golf Olive Press revised:Layout The Chamber’s board of directors has published what it believes should be the economic priorities of the new government, following this winter’s elections. A modern and efficient taxi service, an end to the unfair abuse of government accommodation and an annual political roadshow in Spain are three of the key proposals. Chamber President Christian Hernandez said: “Our suggestions would help Gibraltar to become more competitive and resilient. “We hope to convince the political leaders to adopt all of these measures for their own manifestos.” The chamber believes a whistleblower hotline set up to expose fabulous food and entertainment including a 5* Christmas businesses hiring illegal labour or new Years Eve Gala Dinner with fine wine and unregistered employers would be a significant improvement. FOR GOLFERS Labour inspectors would then includes 3 rounds of golf act on tip-offs and impose increased fines for those found guilty.
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Chemo’s coming home A NEW chemotherapy centre launching in Gibraltar means patients will no longer have to travel to Spain or the UK to receive treatment. A suite with up to four treatment rooms will be constructed at St Bernard’s Hospital and available for use next year. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said: “This development will ring in a really meaningful step forward for those who need chemotherapy.”
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www.theolivepress.es 1010 the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
NEWS IN BRIEF
Going solo TORRE del Mar is currently in talks with VelezMalaga Town Hall over becoming an autonomous entity, with its own local administration.
Golf goal NERJA mayor Rosa Arrabal has met with local business leaders and councillors to discuss plans for a new golf course and museum.
Let’s start! ALMUNECAR Town Hall has asked the Junta to hurry up and begin renovation works on the sewerage system at La Herradura seafront.
Food revolution
THE restaurant scene in the Axarquia has been flipped on its head with the opening of a new restaurant in Colmenar. Creative chef Paco Fernandez Lopez aims to bring ‘creative cuisine’ to an area best known for its leg of goat and stews. New restaurant El Olivo is a modern take on Mediterranean food and has already pioneered creative combinations such as pasta with pear.
AXARQUIA
October 1st - October 14th 2015 www.theolivepress.es
Lord of the flies A PLAGUE of whiteflies is wreaking havoc around the Axarquia. As the summer temperatures cool off, thousands of the small white insects have in-
EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan & Rob Horgan vaded the region. Attracted by prickly pear cactus plants - plentiful inland - crops
Virgen violence A MUSLIM expat stands accused of ‘religious hatred’ after stoning a Christian artefact. The 27-year-old Moroccan named only as AB - remains in police custody after causing thousands of euros worth of damage to the shrine of Virgen del Carmen in Rincon de la Victoria. After repeatedly smashing the glass encasing the shrine with a heavy stone, the man allegedly shouted ‘Allah is great’ before police arrested him.
and homes have been overrun by the tiny invaders. “I am at my wits end,” Torrox resident Gavin Hunter said. “I can’t even read my book at night without flies swarming the light next to me. “I’ve tried everything; lighting candles, using bug sprays, you name it, I’ve tried it. “I’ve even slept under a mosquito net, but the flies are so small they get through.” Known scientifically as cochineal flies, their body dye leaves a permanent red stain on clothes and furniture. Whiteflies are common at this time of year but it is unknown why the current swarm is so bad. People are now being advised to cut any cacti down and bury them to stop the influx. Sprays can also be bought from garden centres to kill off the plants.
A plague of biblical proportions has swept over the Axarquia
YOUR BRITISH GP Dr.Paul Godden
Home visits in the Axarquia, Surgery in Riogordo. For a home visit call 692 42 41 42 www.britishgp.es
FLOCK OF FLIES: Axarquia invaded by whiteflies
Nerja councillor comes out
ANDALUCIA’S first openly bisexual councillor is launching a fight for LGBT rights. Podemos councillor Cristina Fernandez, 40, hopes by coming out she will encourage others to do so to. Fernandez presented a motion to the council ahead of International Bisexual Day to back and give recognition to LGBT people in the region. “My children - nine and 18 years old - accepted me the day I said I had another partner and it was a woman,” said Fernandez, who has long since split from their father. Before becoming a councillor, Fernandez was well known for her work with Taller De Amistad, a group working for people with mental health BI TO BIGOTS: Fernandez problems.
The right to play
CHILD’S PLAY: Petition
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A BAND of determined Nerja mothers are fighting to protect playtime for their kids. They have launched a change. org petition against the dangerous state of the area’s playgrounds. The petition ‘Salvar los Parques Infantiles de Nerja!’ is over halfway to the target of 500 signatures to implement more lighting, safer apparatus and fences, as well as basic maintenance. The mothers have pinpointed nine playgrounds across town, and 277 people have signed in just five days.
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the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
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www.theolivepress.es 1212the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
GREEN NEWS
the oli14th free the Olive Press October 1st - www.theolivepress.es October ve p2015 ress
Deep sea crusaders Andalucía’s
Fortnightly
“Spa hote & dry”. 18l left me high refuses to million hotel pay 5k bill
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THEY are lions, usedgiven out in their for a few biland clog minutes up the back one’s kitche of every That is until n drawers. they get to block throw But that up a landfill site. n out problem.is only a fraction While plasti of the take an to degra incredible 1000c bags de, it is years ter the natur when they endevastating e cycle that they . are Look at dying onthese photos. The the seash whale la (below), ore in Marb elby a plasti the gannet stran c bag, or gled turtle (over the leaf). Over giant sea large sea 100,000 mammals mated ONE and MILLION an estidie every sea poison. year due to this birds plastic These anima ls are they mista dying becau se for jellyfi ke the translucent sh or squid bags of their diets. , a key eleme nt It is a horri tic either fic death. The tive tracts blocks their plasdiges , of if they enough consu simply bags, their stoma me become stop eatin full, and chs they The Oliveg and starve. Press has enough decided the launcis enough. Follo h of a series wing campaigns of simila r we are vowinaround the globe g to help mindless bring this, slaughter encouragin to a plastic bagsg the bann halt by ing of in Spain .
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Continued
CUSTOMS officials in Malaga were astonished to unearth two kilos of dead seahorses from the suitcase of a tourist arriving in Spain. The Chinese holidaymaker faces a huge fine for smuggling two plastic bags full of the creatures ‘for personal consumption’. Malaga airport officials found the smuggled seahorses stashed among the man’s clothes after he had travelled from Cali, in Colombia, via Amsterdam. Airport staff raised the alert when he ‘showed signs of nerves’ and the tourist will face prosecution for flouting import/export laws. While seahorses are a delicacy in some countries and it is a Chinese belief that dried seahorses cure libido problems.
ch 6th 200
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Selling Euros?
Fishy business
Issue 29, Mar
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International mission to save filthy seas lands in Spain
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By Rob Horgan AN international rescue mission for the world’s seas has landed in Andalucia. The Ocean Crusader mission to clean up the world’s waters has launched its Spanish leg of the world tour in Almeria. Founders, Australian Ian Thomson and his Swedish wife Annika Fredrikson, spent two days meeting ma-
RUBBISH: Waste on seabed and (top) our campaign
rine biologists in Almeria on the latest leg of their tour which will also take them around the Balearics. Talking about the impact litter can have on marine life, the pair are attempting
to save the depleting seas. In fact, marine life has halved in the last 45 years with many species on the brink of extinction. The Olive Press launched a campaign, Bin the Bags, in
2008, in a bid to force supermarkets and other shops to levy a charge on plastic bags. Since then a law has come in with most supermarkets charging at least two cents for a bag. However, it is clearly not enough, with a whopping 75% of tuna having disappeared from the world’s oceans in the past 40 years, according to the Living Blue Planet. One in four shark species are also at risk of extinction. In addition four out of seven leatherback turtles are under threat and sea cucumber numbers have now decreased by 90%.
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MAN has been polluting the earth for over 40,000 years, according to new archaeological evidence unearthed on the Rock. A study of a neanderthal’s cave in Gibraltar found that man has been burning heavy metal since Palaeolithic times. High levels of copper, lead, nickel and zinc were found at Gorham’s Cave by a team of scientists lead by director of the Gibraltar museum Clive Finlayson.
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“TODAY, as Jane Goodall would have said, we have a reason to hope,” Bioparc Fuengirola announced this week. And the iconic anthropologist, aka ‘the chimp lady’, would be proud of the conservation park’s latest achievement. The rare bird species Bali Starling was declared practically extinct in 2001 but, thanks to conservation programmes, it is alive and thriving at Bioparc Fuengirola. The critically endangered white avian with its fetching mohican crest is still suffering from illegal poaching across the world today.
job boon THE SPANISH government’s environmental budget will help boost jobs next year, ministers say. Environmental Minister Pablo Saavedra will have up to €2.6 billion to spend. Two huge projects to improve water quality and infrastructure will cost around €750 million.
Avo low GRANADA avocado farmers are nervously beginning the harvest in the knowledge that it is poorer than last year. Production volumes are 4050% lower than last year’s bumper crop due to a warm spring. Avocado prices are set to rise and Morocco, another big producer, is increasing production.
Green tax for hols HOLIDAYMAKERS travelling the Balearic Islands will have to fork out for a new green tax. The eco-tax is being prepared in Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. It will see holidaymakers charged €2 per person/ per day, meaning the average family of four would pay an additional €100 on a twoweek holiday.
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la cultura
Espionage, stealth and semantics: Back to the roots of the popular saying
October 1st - October 14th 2015
Cloak and dagger - how ‘hoodie’ craze began here
T
HE expression ‘cloak and dag- Cloaks were worn with a long, elonger’ is one which invokes im- gated hat drawn down over the ears to ages of James Bond, and the conceal eye movements. concepts of stealth, danger and Cloak and dagger, the uniform of these Andalucian schools, would go espionage. Linguists tell us that the phrase is on to be an iconic symbol in Spanish actually Spanish in origin – literally, history. ‘capa y espada’ – and the term can be Cloaks of similar style soon became the fashion in 18th-century Spain. traced to Andalucia. They were worn by The phrase developed soldiers, aristocrats, from martial arts techniques popular throughGarments, like clergymen and, unsurprisingly, by crimiout Andalucia during the 17th and 18th centuries. the burka and the nals. Rising prices In Seville, Cordoba bikini, have taken and taxes on bread, coal, oil, wine and and especially Malaga, on a political cured meats fanned sophisticated daggersignificance widespread disconfighting schools evolved tent. Petty crime, from the more traditionrobberies and mugal fencing and sword gings were commonplace as social academies. The new focus was on skills of decep- tensions ran high, to the extent that tion, distraction and ‘counter-strike’ Charles III banned cloaks in an atusing a dagger and a cloak worn to tempt to tighten public security. Publicly, Charles stated that he supplement fighting techniques. The cloak was typically a three-quar- sought to substitute the long capes ter circle of cloth, custom-fitted to the and broad-brimmed hats with short capes and three-cornered hats worn height of the wearer. It enabled a man to hold his dagger out by the French as a way of ‘modernisof sight and simultaneously block an ing’ Spain. Privately, however, Charles incoming attack by wrapping the cloak sought to curb street-crime, believing that the long capes facilitated the conaround his opponent.
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HAT AND CLOAK RIOTS: Depicted by Goya cealment of weapons while the elongated hats hid faces. The public reaction to the ban was swift and violent. Protesters marched on Plaza Mayor, palaces were looted and the authorities were stoned and knifed. Soldiers were mobilised, but rioters
promptly took control of a military arsenal where muskets and sabres were stored. Charles was forced to flee Madrid. The situation reached near-anarchy and it took a military junta to restore order. The infamous Spanish painter Francisco Goya, an eyewitness to this virtual insurrection of the populace, went
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on to paint his famous Motin de Esquilache depicting what has become known as the ‘Hat and Cloak Riots’ (a.k.a the Esquilache Riots). This is not the first time a garment’s intrusion into politics has been less than seamless. More recently, British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron have both made public speeches suggesting that the hooded sweatshirt or ‘hoodie’ was worn for antisocial behaviour among teens. As a result, they were banned from several British shopping malls, including Bluewater in Kent. The hoodie also became an icon in American hip-hop culture following the fatal shooting of teenager Trayvon Martin. A ‘million hoodie march’ was held in racial solidarity, with the garment highlighted as ‘the symbol of injustice’. Fashion and politics have had a rich, symbiotic history. Clothing has always been a medium for cultural change and social expression and certain garments, like the burka and the bikini, have the ability to take on a wider political significance. But from the cloak and dagger legacy of Andalucia came a fashion statement that, for a brief period in the late 1700s Spain, threatened to overthrow a king.
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la cultura what’s on
M
arbella, 7-11
October
The Marbella International Film Festival takes place at the Teatro Goya, Puerto Banus with special screenings and workshops. Details at www. marbellafilmfestival. com/contact-us
T
orremolinos, October 4-12
The Feria of San Miguel will draw young and old on to the streets for food, drink, fairground rides and a procession through the town to celebrate Torremolinos’s patron saint.
M
alaga, 8-11
alaga, now until December 6
An exhibition by Ai Weiwei, the artist and campaigner, at the Málaga Centre for Contemporary Art (CAC) is a collection of 12 bronze statues over three metres high. Info at www.cacmalaga.eu
October 1st - October 14th 2015
Culture vultures
MAYBE they’re intrepid or maybe it’s the weather, but Brits are the biggest travellers in Europe, a recent survey reveals. UK residents visit on average nine countries and fly 16 times in an aeroplane over
October
Voces, a flamenco ballet featuring worldrenowned dancer Sara Baras, comes to the Cervantes Theatre. Tickets can be bought on 902 36 02 95 or at www.unientradas.es/janto
M
The average European visits eight countries in his or her lifetime
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the course of their lives, while the average Spaniard visits six and boards a plane 13 times. Just 21% of Spaniards have flown more than 30 times in their life. Unsurprisingly, less than one in ten Spaniards travel ‘to escape bad weather’ while a similarly low 12% of Brits prioritised good weather in their holiday plans.
Stress
INSPIRED: By Spanish landscape
Ronda artist’s show AN influential British artist inspired by Ronda’s beauty is having his work showcased at a new exhibition. David Bomberg lived in the Spanish mountain town from 193435 and 1956-57 and painted some of his greatest work there. The display of his paintings and those of his students at Waterhouse & Dodd in London will last until October 24. Blomberg once planned to open a Ronda painting school with a former pupil.
The main travel motive for the British is to enjoy time with family (38%) while Spaniards get away to relieve stress (48%) – not such a priority for the French (19%). The Last Minute.com study on 6,000 itchy-footed Europeans across UK, France, Italy, Germany and Spain was in honour of world tourism day on September 27. A common theme across all five nationalities was the desire for family time on holiday.
ONE-STOP SHOP: Gibraltar bridal fair
Wedding date
FROM the flashiest photographers to the most tantalising tiered cakes, everything needed for that dream wedding – except the fiancé – will be on display at Gibraltar’s bridal fair this October. Set in the stunning Moroccanstyle marquee in the Rock Hotel’s private gardens, the very best in wedding dresses, decoration, catering and much more will be on show. CHANNEL 5 is casting Open from 5pm to 9pm on around for hoteliers to parSaturday 17, the fair will be ticipate in the next series followed by a tour of the hoof The Hotel Inspector. tel’s brand new Victory Suite. The last series saw a Torrox For more information conhotel transformed by the tact events@rockhotel.gi or straight talking advice of re00350 200 73000 nowned hotelier Alex Polizzi. Production company Twofour is on the hunt for hoteliers who feel they’re not reaching their full potential. SPANIARDS are rekindling Hotel La Casa near Nerja, their love for the big screen. which featured last time, Cinema attendances are up has gone from strength to 4% this year as punters get strength since appearing on their film fix. the series and is reportedly The growth comes despite booked up until the end of the Spain having the highest VAT year. on cinema tickets in Europe.
Calling all hoteliers!
Movie magic
16
la cultura
Photo by Peter Parkorr of Travel Unmasked
Jekylls and Hydes
MONKEYING AROUND: Monkey Talk’s Brian Gomila chats to a Barbary macaque
I
’VE seen the ‘apes’ loads of times. I know their game. Show them a glimpse of food, or plastic packaging, and they’re on to you in a flash. Or so I used to think… in the days before I met Barbary macaque expert Brian Gomila, whose forgiveness I beg for my calling them apes in the very first line. Sorry Brian. It was actually Brian who contacted me, having read a rather left-field piece of prose I’d penned from the ‘point of view’ of one of the macaques this time last year. Apparently I was ‘lacking in key scientific areas’. So, after slowly recovering my bruised ego, I agreed to let him show me the real Barbary macaques, and teach me all the things that hardly anyone knows. It turns out he was right. I didn’t actually know the monkeys at all, and I boldly predict that 99% of tourists and a similar percentage of Gibraltarians don’t either. That’s how I found myself tearing up the Rock to St Michael’s Cave to meet Brian, of Monkey Talk Gibraltar, for a two-hour outing that would change my perception of the Rock’s most famous residents for good. We met at 7pm and began with an introduction, as Brian – who completed a masters in primatology at Roehampton University – set the tone for the evening. “The first thing we did when we met was to greet each other,” begins Brian. “And the macaques do exactly the same. “We are both primates and share many behaviours.” Thus we head off past St Michael’s Cave towards a rocky outcrop above Spur Battery, overlooking Europa Point. There are seven distinct groups of macaques in Gibraltar, each one moving
Everyone knows what Gibraltar’s notorious Barbary macaques are like… or do they? Tom Powell discovers a different side to the Rock’s most famous residents
CHILLING: Former governor Sir James Dutton with macaques around as a unit and sleeping within an Way troop had decided to settle for their established territories. We were the night. destined for the group at the southern So after manoeuvring ourselves down tip of the Rock where the Royal Angli- a steep gap we stepped out onto the rock face, found a cosy wedge and settled in as the last of the sun’s rays beamed across the bay . Within seconds, I was speechless. The same monkeys I had seen ravage shopping bags, tear at zips and prowl INTERESTINGLY, while females remain with their group for their menacingly at the Cable Car Top Staentire life, the adolescent males have a choice and may chance it tion were nonchalanty wandering right in another group . Occasionally this decision may be forced upon past our group. them if there is too much intra-group competition from rival males. A youngster perched in front of us,
Should I stay or should I go now?
picking at his hands and rubbing them. Why? He had just fallen victim to the merciless prickly pear, of course. Then the dominant male in the group sauntered up to my camera lens, took a long, calculative one in charge. look, and sauntered off to find This mesmerising something more interesting to look at. Brian explained how it is not the older moment is only interrupted by a loud males who concern him when taking squeaking noise. It’s a younger male groups out, but rather the younger, in the group, making what’s known as more excitable adolescents, that he a ‘contact call’. This apparently lets hasn’t had the chance to properly the other members of the group know where he is, and not to all disappear gauge yet. But that doesn’t stop him showing us off without him. his well-rehearsed routine. “Who’s And it turns out his family had found this food for?” he asks, slowly produc- a delightful perch on a ledge half way up the cliff above, where several ing a banana from his pocket. macaques were en“You?” comes the gaged in a thorough pantomime reply from grooming process. myself and the four They have taught This primate pamothers. Then, with two pering is all about me things about monkeys sat directly relieving stress, in front of him gazing myself and the we’re told, after an longingly at the baway humans argument more ofnana, he preceded to ten than not. peel and eat without a socialise So this is how the worry. day draws to a close I could barely believe for this affable my eyes, the monkeys simply sat and watched before losing interest and group of macaques, preening halfway up the rock, at a great vantage point, moving off. If I tried this stunt at the top of the as the sun sets its last rays over the cable car I’m pretty sure I’d end up Europa Point lighthouse and large buried under a furious melee of Bar- boats lit up like birthday cakes chug bary macaque before I’d even taken through the dark, blue sea. Brian – a man with an analogy up his a mouthful. But Brian was showing me a com- sleeve to suit every occasion – bepletely different side to these Jekyll comes almost wistful in these last, stunningly beautiful moments. “Part and Hyde creatures. He explained that by not cowering in of the problem is that the macaques fear from the macaques, by simply are seen purely as a tourist attraction, eating in front of them as if they were while the locals are left to put up with no bother, he is asserting his domi- their antics,” he remarks. nance. Whereas normally, tourists “Gibraltarians should be proud to share shriek in terror and jump back, giving their home with the only free-ranging, the macaque the impression it is the non-human primates in Europe.”
17 October 1st - October 14th 2015
Free food’s like free money
PRIMATE SPOT: The group enjoy witnessing the macaques up close and personal
Who’s the daddy? He is going the right way about changing perceptions though, having taken small groups of children on his excellent trips, and currently liaising with the schools about working together. “Educating the younger generation is key to sustaining this wonderful environment, and these fascinating creatures,” he adds. He’s right, you know. Brian has spent time with the macaques from a young age, finding respite in these hidden corners of the Rock, and now plans to undertake a primatology PhD at the newly opened University of Gibraltar. “They have taught me things about myself and the way humans socialise,” he explains as we slowly leave our watching place. And while not everyone is going to learn life lessons, I can guarantee an evening with Brian will completely change your perception of these friendly primates. And so it should, for it’s time we started talking about the Dr Jekyll side, not Mr Hyde.
WHEN the mating season starts this month it is easy to see physical changes in the females, such as their prominent ano-genital swellings. The mating system is regarded as promiscuous, with females mating repeatedly with a number of males. After a five and a half months
of gestation, babies are born in late spring/early summer. Except there’s one problem. All the males think all the babies are their offspring. In reality, short of verifying paternity through analyses of blood samples nobody knows for certain who the father is. The eternal confusion has a
If you would like to take part in an eye-opening macaque familiarisation outing with friends, family or as a corporate teambonding event, get into groups of 6 to 8 and email Brian on monkeytalkgibraltar@ gmail.com or visit the Monkey Talk Gibraltar Facebook page.
IN CLOSE QUARTERS: Brian asserts his dominance by eating a banana
benefit though; they all take turns to care for all the babies. Barbary macaque males are excellent fathers. As for the babies, these play a very important social role within their group, acting as a focal point for all group members to be more tolerant of one another.
“IMAGINE a kind stranger just walking up to you and putting a tenner in your hand for no apparent reason. Well that’s exactly what giving a monkey free food is like,” explains Brian. This is a problem exacerbated by some tour guides, who encourage feeding the macaques, despite signs warning against it. Together with the provisioned foods provided by the Macaque Management Team, there is enough natural food for the monkeys on the Rock. They don’t need your Twix.
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Welcome to the Rock
PicarFIRST Minister Fabian do has given a warm welcome in to the Olive Press’ launch Gibraltar. the The father-of-two saluted paper’s original reporting and insisted his government to would give its full support aid our growth in the enclave. “I am delighted to cooperate all and to ensure you receive inform the help you need to Olive the choose those who Press for their news. stable “Welcome to the media in Gibraltar.”
Blown away
Royal Navy gunships Politicians call for British in Gibraltar during to be permanently stationed defiant National Day speeches British Navy DEFIANT calls for again in battleships to be stationed during a Gibraltar have been made rally. raucous National Day politicians deA group of 11 British focuslivered rip-roaring speeches with Spain sing on recent tensionsright to selfand backing Gibraltar’s determination. – a sea of red The Casemates crowd the patriotic and white – echoed Fabian sentiments as Chief Minister final address, Picardo delivered the salute to the centering around a of 75 years ‘evacuation generation’ ago. refugee criLinking it to the currenthe vowed to sis engulfing Europe, under the help as much as possible plea that ‘sharing is caring’. MP for But it was Conservative who Romford, Andrew Rosindell,
By Tom Powell
when he ingot the biggest cheer, should - once sisted the Royal Navy permanentagain - have battleships ly stationed in Gibraltar.are a part of “The people of Gibraltar and I would the Great British family here to apprelike to see a battleship to illegally hend any Spanish ship he said. enter British waters,” Ian Paisley Democratic Unionist MP international added: “These are our these are waters, this is our country, must support our people and we them.” this rock!” “We will never surrender address. he roared in a rousing ‘best wishes’ After waving a letter of Minister Chief the from the Queen, National finally vowed to increaseto come. Day celebrations in years
Day with celebrate National PARTY MODE: Gibraltarians macaque inflatable barbary due to its environmental ever be cent years – took place. “National Day will never will only get impactas the crowds gazed up at the diminished. In fact, it red white Then, sky, Tina bigger. We stand together, red and white speckled Simply the Best blasted and free!” he bellowed. the tradi- Turner’s signalling Following the speeches, balloons – through the sound system, almighty party. tional releasing of the in re- the start of an which has caused controversy
talking The Rock’s leader was Jusalongside his lawyer wife speech tine ahead of his key of the at National Day, one ‘most significant ever’. “It is He told the Olive Press: this particularly auspicious year with the day commemoof rating the 75th anniversary Rock, great evacuation of the week as well as coming in the UK’s the Queen becomes the longest serving monarch.”was week A highlight of his at the watching Kings of Leon Gibraltar Music Festival. would “Not at the front as I joked. have got crushed,” he when “But I was blown away in the I saw everyone’s hands best air for Sex on Fire, the rock song of the last decade.” first reAs for a date for his to election contest, rumoured said: be on November 20, heknows “The only person who is my wife.”
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LETTERS
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the Olive Press October 1st - October ess 14th14th 2015 pr 1818 18the Olive Press October 1st - ve October oli the
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DEAR OP, I WOULD like to say what a great start to the Gibraltar Olive Press you have made. It was a very good first edition and I am so looking forward to the next and further editions. As a resident it is a breath of fresh air.
Heaven or hell?
Scaremongering
Never change
I’VE often frequented the bars around Italian Square in Duquesa and have never had a problem (I’m scared to go out, issue 222). I regularly go alone or in a small group of women and none of us have got into trouble. Yes, youths can be quite rowdy here and the Spanish maybe appear more so as it’s such an animated language. And in terms of a ‘botellon culture’, Duquesa is in Spain and we must respect native traditions. I think it is more a case of people being scared of what they don’t understand. I feel the owners of late night establishments should ensure their patrons move along quickly when leaving, but to be honest, I’ve seen much more drug taking in and around some of the larger British-run establishments in the area.
I HAVE to agree with the people complaining about Duquesa Port. I lived in Duquesa nine years ago and was beaten up quite badly after leaving a bar late at night. Unfortunately it doesn’t appear to have changed in the slightest. What it was then is as it is now. It is no different. Drugs, drinking and fighting: British expat’s favourite past times and that place is full of Brits.
Sam Smith, Sabinillas
Thanks from US AS I set off for New York, I just wanted to say a big thank you for the continued support, last week’s article being yet another example of how the Olive Press supports local talent (Big jump to the big apple, the Olive Press Gibraltar issue 1). I really want to reiterate my point that local dancers, musicians, footballers - you name it - should get in touch with the OP as it is a great way to promote yourself and Gibraltar. Jonathan Lutwyche, Gibraltar
ovfifsit gsoe.com to
i % 10ur firsnt etlou pla
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BATTLE AT SEA
Any ship’ll do GIVEN that Gibraltar’s waters are British under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the UK has a constitutional obligation to defend these waters as per the Gibraltar Constitution (Red, White and Free, the Olive Press Gibraltar issue 1). I do not think it matters if the UK sends a battleship or some other appropriate vessel, and there are plenty to choose from. At a glance there are as follows: Seventy-six commissioned ships in the Royal Navy; 19 commissioned vessels are major surface combatants (six guided missile destroyers and 13 frigates) and 10 are nuclear-powered submarines (four ballistic missile submarines and six fleet submarines). A patrol vessel or two may even do the trick. John Louis, Torremolinos
Double trouble Corbyn chance THANK you so much for highlighting Jeremy Corbyn’s support for the international Brigade memorial in Madrid (Corbyn’s battle for war Brigades, issue 222). Given the frenzied attacks on Corbyn in the UK media, your article is a welcome relief.
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This guy needs to be given a chance, at least he’s not sticking his member in a pig. We are very grateful to the International Brigades and admire their commitment to the universal ideals of equality and freedom. A great article and a timely reminder that Corbyn needs to be given a chance. Almudena Cros, Madrid
Flying thought GIVEN the horrendous high cost of living in England, particularly the south-east, it’s no surprise some people decide to live in Spain and commute (Impossible commute, issue 222). They also escape the long winter too – many contacts in the UK are already needing the heating in September! However, I can’t say I’m jealous of the long commute even if it’s just once a week. I’ve got up at ridiculous o’clock for various contracts in the past, and it does take its toll on the body. I also can’t see how you save that much money when you fac-
tor in transit to the airport, and the meals at overpriced franchises. Vicky Pattison, Fuengirola
Lingo lesson AFTER reading last week’s opinion on translators I felt compelled to get in touch (Lost in translation, issue 222) I started groups of voluntary interpreters 17 years ago, working at five police stations on the Costa del Sol. Some were just doing the best they could with their limited language skills, they did and some still provide an invaluable service. I have known several paid interpreters who have had very limited language skills. That they are paid or unpaid does not define their ability. The important thing is to ensure the person you use is capable in the languages required. Julian Ward, Fuengirola
THERE are a couple of problems with the concept of stationing a Royal Navy vessel in Gibraltar. Firstly the navy doesn’t have enough warships to permanently support an on station frigate or destroyer due to cuts in the fleet made by government. And secondly there isn’t enough MoD accommodation to house the crew and their families and the support staff that would be required to keep the vessel operational as the vast majority of the MoD accommodation has been handed over to the Government of Gibraltar. Keith Harris, Gibraltar
Same old ship THE right-wing governments of Spain and the UK will both demand you sing the national anthem and go along with gunship diplomacy. The two are as bad as each other. Until the EU steps in properly the two countries will forever be engaged in a back-andforth tug-of-war which gets neither side anywhere. Olaf Olsen, Marbella
Letters should be emailed to letters@theolivepress.es. The writer’s name and address should be provided. Opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor.
What’s hot on the web The top five most read stories on www.theolivepress.es in the past two weeks (September 14th - September 1) Costa del Sol port a ‘hotbed’ of drugs, drinking and violence, say Duquesa expats (8,982 pageviews) 2) Spanish air traffic controllers to strike in September and October (7,043) 3) American rapper films music video
on top of Gibraltar rock (6,254) 4) Man shot dead in car in Mijas Costa (4,707) 5) Freddie Starr ‘shaking hands with the devil’ as he flees to Costa del Sol hills (3,616)
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SOLD OUT
SPANISH housebuilder Taylor Wimpey Espana has doubled its annual sales this year. The subsidiary of the British company has already sold out five developments, with British sales up 37%. Meanwhile, German buyers have leapt by an astonishing 160%, fuelled mainly by sales in Mallorca. Marc Pritchard, sales and marketing director, said: “It’s been a really good summer this year. “It’s been at least five years since I’ve experienced such an intense level of enthusiasm for Spanish property.” New Costa del Sol developments popular with British golfers this year include La Floresta Sur near Marbella and Miraval in Mijas.
Malaga company floats A LUXURY property company has become the first in Malaga to float on the stock exchange. Obsido, a Spanish-Norwegian company, debuted on the Mercado Alternativo Bursátil (MAB) this month at a price of €19.40 per share. The company currently manages two hotel resorts in Estepona and Marbella.
Who bagged top prize at the World Travel Awards?
Page 35 NATURAL BEAUTY: Alcornocales Natural Park, while (left) Hayek and (below) Almoraima estate
Controversial Almoraima sale comes off the market after campaign by Olive Press and visit from Hollywood actress Salma Hayek
What have former PM Aznar and footballer Bentley got in common?
Page 24
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Saved for the nation From Front Page of Property
ONE of Andalucia’s biggest and most important country estates, which attracted Hollywood beauty Salma Hayek, is off the market. Controversial plans to sell off la Almoraima estate in the Alcornocales natural park have been scrapped after the Mexican actress kicked up a storm to keep it protected. It came after the Olive Press launched a
campaign in 2013 when central government sanctioned a plan to liquidate the ‘key environmental’ estate, worth an estimated €300 million. Last year, the OP exclusively revealed that Mexican actress Hayek and her billionaire husband Francois-Henri Pinault had flown in to visit the 14,000 hectare property, in Castellar de la Frontera, near Gibraltar. The couple came close to buying the land after Hayek was left outraged at the prospect of it being trans-
The Hain in Spain EXCLUSIVE by Iona Napier
OFF THE MARKET: Estate and (above) Hayek
IT is fitting that a former Europe minister should appreciate the best of what European tourism has to offer. Perhaps that’s why Labour politician Peter Hain has bought a stunning Estepona home with plans to enjoy holidays in our balmy climate. According to sources, Hain, 65, exchanged on the townhouse in Cancelada earlier this year and has been coming back regularly. “Peter loves Spain and particularly that part of the coast,” the source told the Olive Press. “He is very happy with his new home and we expect to see him more and more.” Hain is not the only politician to have been seduced by the Spanish life, with Cecil Parkinson long owning a home near Gaucin and former UKIP MEP and media personality Robert Kilroy Silk owning a palatial Spanish villa just up the road in Casares.
formed into an ‘elite estate’ by a private buyer. The property is one of the last undeveloped cork wildernesses in Europe and home to thousands of rare birds and wildlife. However, under a proposal, sanctioned by the authorities, it was set to become a commercial hunting estate, with a mini airport, polo field and possible golf course. Typically, however, Spanish red tape and paperwork complications halted the purchase after the couple flew in by helicopter to view the property. Now the plan has been put on the backburner, with the estate confirming that it had had a profitable 12 months. “The past year has been much better for us,” a spokesman said. “In the past 12 months we have had a profit of €319,000 which means we no longer need to sell the estate.” He added: “At no point did we actually want to sell the estate, it was merely out of necessity and desperation.” In 2014, the park’s debt reached €1.5 million, giving directors ‘little choice’ but to try and cash in as pressure mounted from regional government.
HEADING TO SPAIN: Hain However while Hain is moving over Kilroy is selling up, the eurosceptic having put the palatial 368,000 m2 pad up on the market for €12 million, as reported exclusively by the Olive Press two months ago. Hain is no stranger to Spanish politics having controversially called for joint sovereignty on the Rock in 2013 and recently used Podemos as a model for winning back Labour votes.
Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club Hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es
Tax break
BRITISH homeowners in Spain are in line for huge compensation payouts from the Spanish government. The government hit up to 30,000 non-residents with an inheritance tax levied on their homes between 2011 and 2014, but authorities have ruled they can claim back the tax.
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PUERTO BANÚS Well-priced 2-bedroom beachside penthouse within a gated community offering security. Great rental potential, just steps to the beach and walking distance to Puerto Banús! Ref. OP7735
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townhouse within an Andalusian style complex in Las Lomas del Marbella Club, 10 minutes walk to the beach. Ref. OP5003
Property
2222 the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
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www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015
Beginning to smell like Christmas… THINK Christmas and the smell of a freshly-painted living room isn’t what normally comes to mind. Unless you live in Gibraltar, that is. For residents of the Rock, a ‘winter clean’ is as traditional as pulling crackers, and this year is no different. Indeed, according to two leading
Andalucia, Valencia and Canary Islands hit with expats relocation
By Tom Powell suppliers, paint is flying off the shelves at more than twice the rate of the rest of the year. “It’s a local pastime, an obsession actually,” Eddie Lucas, boss of Interbuild, told the Olive Press. His counterpart at the Corner-
shop Paint and Trade Centre Daryl Moreno added: “Everybody wants to paint their houses just before Christmas, it’s always been the case. “That means whenever you smell paint, it reminds you of Christmas. “We see a big rise in sales in the run-up to Christmas and it has
already started,” added the keen Barcelona fan, who has worked at Cornershop for five years. However, residents aren’t painting their townhouses in Christmas reds and greens. With over 15,000 colours in stock, Gibraltarians plump for everything from magnolia to mandarin sunset.
Who are the brits
NEW research reveals the profile of the average British home buyer in Spain. Most expat Brits (74%) are aged 45-64, spend on average €200,000 and choose to live by the sea, according to figures published by property agent Tranio. The average property size purchased is over
100 square metres and the most popular destinations are Andalucia, Valencia and the Canary Islands. Tranio managing partner George Kachmazov said: “British buyers are the most active on Spain’s property market. “They make up 30% of all foreign buyers – the French and Russians compete for second place with about 10% each. “During the last decade, English activity did slow down but it’s been picking SPAIN’S first ever crowdfunded home has been sold in back up again over the last Madrid. year.” The Madrid flat was bought through website Housers. Surge es, which brings together investors and developers. The favourable exchange An incredible 49 people snapped up the two-bedroom rate, the growing British apartment for €62,000, with €80,500 to be spent on economy and refurbishing and taxes. favourable Spanish lending Housers estimate the apartment will make a €33,123 rates are among the reasons return over five years for the investors, who are renting for the surge in activity. the property for €450 a month. Altogether, 30% of European Housers.es is looking to find backers for similar projects Google property searches in Madrid, Valencia and Calunge, near Girona, with a made by British people were minimum investment of €100 required. for Spain.
Crowded house
MORTGAGE THINK TANK by mortgage broker Tancrede de Pola
I
ISOLATED: Courteous visitors welcome
Eco-topia
IF sharing a single computer between 60 people, shunning modern conveniences and sleeping in a teepee is your thing, head to one of Spain’s biggest ‘eco-villages’ Matavenero. This northwestern Spanish commune was snapped by photographer Kevin Faingnaert when he immersed himself in the romantically simple settlement. Spaniards are building a reputation for green-conscious constructions. Just last month, the first home to produce more energy than it uses was built in the UK by a Spanish architect.
Exciting times are afoot at the Finance Bureau with its new HQ and insurance agency, writes mortgage expert Tancrede de Pola
T has been a pretty hectic month for myself and the Finance Bureau. As well as moving offices we have launched a new insurance agency, adding another string to our property bow. First things first, the new office is fantastic. Of course the move hasn’t gone without its snags (the usual WiFi issues et al) but all-in-all it has been a smooth transition. We are now located in Guadalmina’s Centro Commercial, in the block in between La Caixa Bank (formerly Barclays) and the Asador – feel free to pop in and say hello. The insurance agency is however the thing exciting me the most at the moment. As the Finance Bureau has established itself as a top mortgage brokerage on the Costa del Sol, I felt it was time to branch out and tap into a market which many of our clients often ask about. When looking for a mortgage it also makes sense to start thinking about your insurance needs, be it home, life, health or building cover. So it was a logical next step for the Finance Bureau - a one-stop shop if you will.
Up, up and away!
And it is important not only to have property insurance but also to have the correct cover, be it for full-time property, a second home or a buy-to-let. The insurance market is evolving every year, and it pays to shop around. However, with insurance companies able to specialise with the cover they offer, you need to be sure the insurance quote covers all of your specific circumstances and requirements. That is why I’ve brought in insurance expert Simon to head up the department. The last thing you need is to have problems if you are
unlucky enough to have to make a claim. For instance, some insurance policies only cover the property if it is occupied all of the time. For a rental with vacancy periods, you will need a specialist insurance policy that covers these vacant periods. If you rent your property to long term tenants it is important to have the right insurance cover, even if your tenant has their own insurance. Insuring somewhere you are not even living in may seem like a waste of money, but it is actually your property you are protecting. Where you are contracting life insurance you will need to consider whether to cover the full mortgage amount for the full term or have it reducing as the mortgage reduces thereby saving on premiums. Likewise, when contracting health insurance, do you prefer full coverage in the event of a claim or, partial. Do you want to use the doctor of your choice, or, one specified by the insurers. All of these factors will affect your premiums. Whether your insurance is up for renewal in 30 days or, 6 months please contact us for a personal consultation.
To contact Tancrede for all your mortgaging needs call: 666 709 743 or for insurance queries call: 951 203 540 email: tdp@thefinanacebureau.com The Finance Bureau Centro Commercial Guadalmina, 2nOffice No. 7 Guadalmina, 29670
Making Andalucia easier Ulf Hessedahl and his Andalucia Development ‘one stop shop’ have been involved in property for over 30 years THE Costa del Sol has seen an explosion of growth over recent decades and in order to be savvy with the market, it’s essential to speak to people who know their stuff. The small but very well-established Scandinavian team at Andalucia Development, in Marbella, has a wealth of experience in the Spanish and international real estate market. Since the company was set up by Kjell Hessedahl, Ulf’s father, back in 1981, it has been perfectly poised to be part of the immense growth of Marbella and the surrounding areas. The multilingual team is a ‘onestop-shop’ for your needs and can take care of all the details and bureaucratic hoops that are involved when buying or selling a house. Nurturing solid relationships with clients, lawyers, building and property management companies and many more over the years, their connections make the whole process of buying or selling a house as smooth as possible. Their goal: to make their customers feel as comfortable as possible throughout what can be a stressful process. They also secure all of the practical after-sale aspects so you don’t have to worry about a thing. With an approachable, welcoming workforce for whom nothing is too much trouble, the team at Andalucia Development would love to see you – drop in if you find yourself in the area! You can find them in Centro Plaza, Local 63, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella, call them on 952 816 250 or email info@ andadev.com
Home comfort IT’S not just the Brits who flock to southern Spain in search of summer sun… the Spaniards are also keen to visit. Andalucia was crowned the top home-holiday destination for Spaniards, according to travel website HomeAway. With 33% of the stay-at-home market, Andalucia proved more popular than Valencia (17%) and the Balearic islands (15%).
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FOR SALE
Alcaidesa 295,000 euros 3 bedroom semi-detached house Front and back garden 2 Large terraces • 2 ½ bathrooms Off road parking • Beautifully decorated Fireplace • Fantastic sea and golf views Furnished optional Newly re-furbished kitchen – All mod cons Conservatory • Marble tiles throughout 5 mins walk to the beach
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Fairways to heaven www.theolivepress.es
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The British love for golf is putting the Costa housing market back on course, writes Joe Duggan
GREENS TO ENVY: On the Costa del Sol and (inset) Jagielka and Bale
B
RITAIN’S enduring passion for golf has played a pivotal role in our love affair with Spain. Justin Rose has been fleeing England’s rain-streaked shores for the sun-kissed fairways of the Costa del Sol and Murcia for decades, indeed every chance he gets. For the 2013 US Open winner, sheltering from the elements under the dubious cover of a 12th-hole tree back in Blighty is but a distant memory. And, these days, the nation’s fervour for golf and dreams of a frontline home on the fairway are helping to boost Spain’s resurgent property market as the country starts to exit the savage recession. Mark Twain described the game as ‘a good walk spoiled’ but, for thousands of expats perfecting their putts, Spain’s manicured greens are enough of an enticement to turn a hobby into a new lifestyle with an investment in bricks and mortar. And for some, living within driving distance of the driving range isn’t enough. More and more expats are choosing to live in properties a mashie niblicklength from the course itself. David Hewitt moved to Spain eight years ago before making the switch to a home at La Duquesa Golf & Country Club. The graphic designer’s townhouse offers him easy access to the course. He was out enjoying a round with friends when the Olive Press first contacted him. “I have a view of the 10th hole. There is a driving range where you can practise,” he said. “The courses are better quality, and we have the weather here. But really I moved more for the location. “I like to play about once a week, but it depends how busy I am.” La Duquesa’s apartments and houses around El Hacho are home to hundreds of golfing fanatics – Scandinavians and
TEEING OFF: On the green and (inset) Aznar Germans as well as Brits – who take part in tournaments and club social events throughout the year. They’re not alone. An estimated 160,000 British people own holiday homes near golf courses and, with nearly 60 courses on the 1,500 Costa del Sol, southern Spain properis high on the list of popular ties. destinations. Ignacio Osle, Regional Director The constellation of star for British building firm Taylor names who have teed off on Wimpey, points to the phenomlocal courses include Real Maenal success of Avalon, their latdrid galactico Gareth Bale and est development at Los Arqueros. former Spanish Prime Minister “We sold the last Jose Maria Aznar. property in AuPremiership footballing alumni Most of the gust, so we have more left,” he David Bentley and apartments no says. Steven Carr love have a “During the rethe game so much, cession, we kept they can often wonderful on developing be found swingview the Los Aqueros ing their clubs on golf resort and courses around we kept on sellBenahavis, while ing out. their La Sala chief associate “Our new developments are Ian Radford loves Guadalmina. mainly built on golf courses, At luxurious Los Arqueros Golf and that is what we are tarand Country Club, near Marbelgeting for the future.” la, residents have been teeing He estimates that 40% of off within putting distance of the customers snapping up a their front door for the past 20 Spanish golfing idyll are Brityears. The course, designed by ish, with others coming from Seve Ballesteros, boasts some
Call John or Pat 956 791 394 / 627 119 860
GOLF KINGDOM: Par for the course
the Middle East or Scandinavia. Such is golf’s continued allure, Taylor Wimpey is spearheading a joint development plan with La Cala Resort for two new golf home enclaves: Miraval in Mijas, a luxury development of 60 apartments, and a townhouse urbanisation christened Horizon Golf. “We also plan another development in Estepona Golf for next year. It will have 58 townhouses and 72 apartments,” said Osle. And with prices for a two-bedroom apartment coming in at around €200,000, business is booming. “We didn’t really have any competitors on the Costa del Sol until now but now there are investment funds selling properties for between one and three million euros,” added Osle. The size of most golfing resorts means that their primary purpose isn’t that obvious to the casual visitor. Alex Twomey, 25, recently took a family holiday to El Chaparral Golf Club, but despite its floodlit greens and acres of playing space, the Londoner noticed no visible signs of golfing activity. He said: “It is massive; if I did not know beforehand that it was a golfing resort, I would not have known what it was. I was quite surprised because I hardly saw anybody in their golfing gear or with their equipment. “There were lots of British people there, though, and it was really beautiful.” Frank Rabbel, development manager at Bromley Estates, is well-versed in finding homes for the influx of British buyers and expats from elsewhere. His company is an exclusive partner with Valle Romano Golf Course near Estepona, where they have 570 properties. And with prices ranging from €103,000 for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment to €181,000 for the most expensive penthouse, the championship golf course is a hit with Brits swinging their five irons. “Most of the apartments have a wonderful view. We have people, many of them Spanish, who buy because of our cheap prices but around 40% of the people are British,” said Rabbel. “We also have Germans, Belgians, Austrians and Swiss so it’s not a ghetto of one nation.” However, when it comes to golf, make that a united nation.
1S-0029: BEACHFRONT APARTMENT LA CALA SEA VIEWS LARGE STUDIO
2A-2555: GREAT HOLIDAY HOME WITH VIEWS 2 BED 2 BATH
Front line beach studio in the heart of La Cala village. Situated in a much Great location close to all amenities and the community has it’s own sought after development with direct access to the beach from the gardens tunnel access to the beach front! Super sea views from the south facing and pool area. The property is extremely spacious with some owners terrace which also overlooks the gardens and pool area. The apartment converting to one bedroom apartments. Includes a small kitchen, has a modern open plan kitchen and a newly updated shower room, complete bathroom and large lounge/dining area leading onto a glazed two double bedrooms with fitted robes, family bathroom and lounge sunny terrace that enjoys superb views to the sea. There is communal with feature fireplace. Excellent value for this ideal holiday home on parking. Low running costs. A superb rental investment and holiday home. an established community with communal parking.
100.000 Euros
149.000 Euros
2AP-0070: SUPERB FRONTLINE GOLF PENTHOUSE 2 BED 2 BATH Superb penthouse with great front-line golf views to miraflores golf and all day sun on the huge 160m2 wrap-a-round terrace. The property itself has a large lounge/diner with feature fireplace and vaulted ceilings, well equipped kitchen, two large double bedrooms (one en-suite) a further single bedroom and private lift access directly to the apartment. Well kept pools and gardens, large store-room and garage space are added benefits. A must for viewings!
255.000 Euros
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www.theolivepress.es
October 1st - October 14th 2015
High-flying at HiFX
HI-FIVE: Money transfer company striking gold in Centro Plaza, Puerto Banus
The property market is on the up, and so are spirits at leading currency company HiFX, writes Rob Horgan
‘T
HE old band’s back together,” explains HiFX Spain’s new Country Manager Tanya Edwards as she settles into life in Marbella. The money transfer company has been experiencing a period of intense growth and having just moved to the Golden Mile, Edwards is confident that this will continue. Having originally worked in HiFX head office in Windsor from 2005, she is delighted about being reunited with former colleague, Operations Manager Amanda Best. They are fronting up the Spanish operation from Centro Plaza, in Nueva Andalucia, Marbella, having worked together for years. Located behind Yanx restaurant, with breathtaking views towards the mountains overlooking Marbella, the team of five want to get across to clients how happy they are to deal with them personally and not to feel rushed.
Experts
“I want people to feel comfortable enough to drop in, have a cup of coffee and find out what their options are,” Edwards explains. “There are no obligations when you come in. We are a friendly bunch and are always here to help and guide you through any money transfer requirement, whether you are buying or selling property, or have regular payments to make.” Having transferred over £100 billion to date, HiFX is one of the largest international money transfer specialists in Europe, offering highly competitive, bank-beating exchange rates to both individuals and businesses. With three offices in Spain, HiFX cover the whole of the Iberian Peninsular including the Balearic and Canary Islands. Now part of Euronet Worldwide, a global electronic and transaction processing solutions company, HiFX offers a personal service with each dealer serving
Meet the team:
Based in Windsor
Manager – Ed has relocated to Spain after working in the Corporate department, in UK. Now in charge of sporting sponsorships, he is a keen golfer and is in charge of the corporate box at Malaga FC
Based in Marbella
Carlie Reid – Client Account Manager – Recently back after maternity leave, Carlie has been helping clients in Spain for nearly 10 years and previously worked in the UK head office
Jose Ivars-Lopez – Head of Banking Partnerships – Based at HiFX Windsor and heads up not only Spain, but the banking affiliations in the UK and Spain. Tanya Edwards – Country Manager – Having originally started with the company in 2005, Tanya headed up the Costa Blanca operations in the boom years, has worked in Windsor and is now in Marbella Amanda Best – Operations Manager - Half Spanish, half English, she has a long history with HiFX over nine years and now helps to head up operations in Spain Paul Radford – Business Development Manager – Having worked in the UK in the affiliate department for many years, Paul is our resident celebrity. You’ll catch him on the radio Mondays and Fridays with his market updates Edward Chapman – Business Development
Based in Costa Blanca South office or Costa Blanca North office Julia Rose – Area Manager Costa Blanca
Janine Mort – Business Development Manager Bradley Smith – Client Account Manager Tania Blanco – Business Development Manager Sebastiaan Schuum – Business Development Manager Hernan Cortes – Corporate Business Development Manager
Want to join the team? HiFX are currently looking to employ further Business Development members for the ever growing teams in both Costa Del Sol and Costa Blanca fewer clients than a bank, giving them more time to find the best rates on offer. And it is an exciting time for the team and - most importantly the people they work with - as the property market takes off. “Seeing the market come back round again really excites me,” Edwards explains. “But what excites me even more is seeing the estate agents and the other businesses we work with prosper. “The crisis was a tough time for everyone, it was heart-breaking to see businesses and individuals suffer.” Spain is certainly once again a firm favourite for those looking to buy abroad, according to the company’s latest Property Hotspots Report. The bi-annual report, which analyses nine years worth of HiFX data, reveals that while France and Spain shared the top spot in March, Spain is now steam-
ing ahead and attracting more buyers. Meanwhile across the pond, the USA continues to be a popular choice for British house-hunters exploring the global property market, as 8% of those searching abroad head there. “Looking at the global property market broadly, the last six months have been very interesting,” explains UK-based director Mark Bodega. “While demand for international property remains well below pre-financial crisis highs, we’re beginning to see pockets of demand off the back of strong price performances in a number of key countries. “In Europe, the story in property reflects the wider economic picture and a two speed Europe is becoming increasingly evident with some countries (Spain, Portugal and Ireland) on the up
with prices rising and demand coming back, while others (France, Cyprus, Greece and Italy) are showing none or negative growth.” But it is not all work and no play at HiFX. As Edwards explains, the new ethos at HiFX is to give back to its affiliates. As well as lining up a quiz night later this month (expect your invites soon) and gearing up for Estepona’s overs 50’s show, the HiFX team are getting sporty. “We have got massively into our sports this year,” says Edwards. “We have a VIP box at Malaga’s football stadium and we are in the early stages of planning golfing events for 2016. “It is good to show our faces, and look after the businesses we work with.” For more information on HiFX call 951 203 986 or visit www. hifx.co.uk/marbella
WINKWORTH URGENTLY NEED MORE PROPERTIES Winkworth have 25 qualified clients actively looking for properties, we urgently need apartments, townhouses and villas for the following clients. Mr E looking for a three bedroom apartment in Estepona – Budget €400,000 Mr M looking for a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in Guadalmina, close to golf – Budget €300,000 Mr R looking for a two bedroom apartment in Arroyo de la Miel only – Budget €150,000 Ms B looking for a three bedroom townhouse in Benalmadena – Budget €250,000 Ms W and Ms T both looking for a four bedroom villa in Benalmadena. – Budget €500,000 Mrs H is looking for a three bedroom villa in Nueva Andalucia – Budget €500,000 Mr B is looking for a three bedroom penthouse in the Golden Mile / Nueva Andalucia – Budget €900,000 Mr H is looking for a two bedroom apartment in Golden Mile / Sierra Blanca – Budget €600,000 Mrs E is looking for a three+ bedroom villa in Benahavis – Budget €3,000,000 Mr M is looking for a four bedroom villa in Mijas / Benalmadena – Budget €700,000 Developer looking for a distressed villa for himself Budget €1,500,000 and apartments or townhouses in need of refurbishment Ms B looking for a 2 bedroom+ villa in San Pedro or Guadalmina – Budget €450,000 Mr G looking for a property in Vista Azur for buy to let Three clients are looking for Los Granados de Cabopino only Mr and Mrs H are looking for a three bedroom townhouse or apartment in La Heredia – Budget €550,000 Ms P is looking for a two or three bedroom apartment or townhouse in Camojan, Sierra Blanca – Budget €650,000 Mrs K is looking for a contemporary villa with three+ bedrooms, walking distance to amenities, open to area – Budget €2,500,000
IF YOU ARE THINKING OF PUTTING YOUR PROPERTY ON THE MARKET, NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME Please contact Winkworth on 952 880 941 or email info@winkworth.es Experience the difference tel: +34 952 880 941 info@winkworth.es www.winkworth.es
* Disclaimer exchange rate correct at time of going to press.
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Dreams in Duquesa
Get first in line for the bargain buys that won’t last forever, write Andrew and Shani Hamilton from Hamilton Homes in Manilva
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HE property market on the Costa del Sol is hot to trot once more. And, as confidence grows, previously incognito parts of the coast are edging their way into the limelight. Duquesa Village, in Manilva, is just one location reaping the benefits from the recent rally in the market. Incredibly, all 200 bank repossessions that left the area high and dry three years ago have now been sold to international buyers. These low-rise Andalusianstyle apartments have now become thriving multi-cultural communities set in mature gardens with wellmaintained pools… and, a short drive down to Duquesa beach and marina on internal roads. The urbanisation of Duquesa Village, for example, was seen as practically a
www.theolivepress.es
October 1st - October 14th 2015
ghost town, but it has now become a desirable and sought-after community. One stunning penthouse property (see penthouse paradise below) with uninterrupted sea and golf course views and underground parking is selling for just €119,500. That is an incredibly good deal.
Brits are back The interest currently being registered in Duquesa Village is a reflection of how buyer confidence is back on track. The fantastic investment opportunities combined with the strong sterling-toeuro exchange rate has well and truly lured the British buyers back. This year we have seen a big turning point and when we speak to clients the gen-
LUXURY: Flats available at affordable prices
HAPPY HAMILTONS: Homes on the up
eral feedback is that now is the time to buy. We have had the same clients visiting houses with us on a regular basis over the last few years and each year they held off from buying because they felt that the market would continue to go down. But now they are less cautious and are finally starting to buy, in particular because prices have actually finally started to creep up and will continue to do so for the rest of the year.
copies of tax returns and their last three wage slips. Yes, it is taking a lot longer to get a mortgage than it once did but, with paperwork ready to go, mortgages are being approved. The bureaucracy may be tedious but prospective purchasers should be reassured that the longer wait is a result of much-improved checks against money laundering and ensuring the market’s foundations are solid. Banks are opening their doors to business. Believe us as we have worked for many of them, including Citibank, Royal Bank of Scotland, Credit Agricole and Barclays. Coming from a private banking background has taught
Trading up Repossessed bank properties are also shifting well, with good mortgage options available once more and a new type of buyer emerging in force. Up until six months ago we saw the demand mainly for basic, holiday apartments but now we are seeing an increased demand for more high-end properties. But while the best deals are selling very quickly, the bureaucracy can get
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complicated on the road to completion and patience is necessary!
Inside track Bargain bank repossessions are still to be had so it is not too late to take advantage. Don’t be disheartened if you haven’t bought yet as we must emphasise there are still good deals to be had. The banks still have properties to release but it is essential for buyers to get organised to pick up a bargain as soon as they come on the market. By ‘get organised’, I mean applying for your NIE number now, knowing your budget and preparing your paperwork. But if you don’t know the precise state of your finances, don’t panic. It’s far more common than people think. And remember even cash buyers need to provide evidence of how they make their money when they buy from a bank, complete with
us to pay attention to detail and to listen to our clients. Not only are Hamilton Homes in the business of helping you find the perfect place, we’ll secure you the perfect mortgage too.
Next step? The market is buoyant, the cogs are turning and Hamilton Homes is ready to help you secure that dream buy. Our company specialises in sales across the region, including Alcaidesa, Sotogrande, La Duquesa, Sabinillas and Estepona. We are looking forward to hearing from you. To get in touch, contact Hamilton Homes on +34 952 890 444 or email olive@hamilton-homes.com
Penthouse paradise A TWO-bedroom, two bathroom penthouse in Duquesa village complete with communal pool garden and garage is finished to the highest standard. With a fitted modern kitchen, walk-in wardrobe, bathroom jacuzzi and stunning sea, golf, and countryside views, the marble-floored and air-conditioned apartment is a steal. It is on the market with Hamilton Homes for just €119,500. PICTURESQUE: Views from the site
To get in touch, contact Hamilton Homes on +34 952 890 444 or email olive@hamilton-homes.com
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October 1st - October 14th 2015
Market back on track! Property expert and Overseas Dreams MD Peter Bowerman discusses the strengthening market with the Olive Press
S
PAIN appears to be getting back on track with renewed interest on the Costa del Sol. Latest reports say Spain is once again the most popular destination for mortgage enquiries, accounting for 45% of demand in the second quarter of 2015. The Spanish economy also grew by 1% in the same period, overtaking Britain’s recovery. Current expectations for the year are an impressive 3.3% growth and our own analysis predicts 2015 will see a 2-3% increase in property prices and in some cases more. Having been a successful agent and very safe property investor for 25 years, I have just started borrowing as much as possible to invest on the coast again and been recommending family, friends and investor clients to do the same. Take it from me, five years from now, you’ll look back at these low prices and wish you had stretched yourself and bought bigger or more properties.
HOW’S BUSINESS?
The Spanish market is busy, exciting and officially back on the move. After quadrupling our marketing throughout Europe, the year started off well for Overseas Dreams, however, it has now stepped up a gear. We actually need a lot more properties to satisfy the buyers we have – which is why we are temporarily lowering selling fees to obtain more properties
in price, so if you currently have better use for your money - for example cruising the world or simply freeing up your cash, now is as good a time as any to sell. It is definitely a good time to sell if you are buying again in Spain or UK, even if initially losing money from purchasing in the boom, the shortfall should be redressed by purchasing sensibly, especially if up-sizing.
MY ADVICE FOR BUYERS and meet demand.
WHERE ARE THE BUYERS COMING FROM?
Our buyers are coming from all over Europe. French demand has increased, due to increased property/wealth taxes there, while we continue to market and sell to the prevalent Scandinavian market. The British, though, are at the top of the purchasing table, largely thanks to the strong pound encouraging some fabulous deals.
MY ADVICE FOR SELLERS
Now is a good time to sell – but don’t expect to be getting prices from days gone by. Although buyers are confident that the future is bright, they are still looking for correctly priced properties, which are currently around 35-40% less than the height of the market in 2007/08. It will take years for the market to significantly jump
It’s been the perfect time for investors and holiday-home buyers to purchase at the bottom of the market, knowing that sales have already increased by around 30% and property prices are also on the rise. It’s almost a no-brainer for anyone wanting to invest in property. Bricks and mortar have historically always been a safe longterm investment, especially with the bonus of covering running costs by summer holiday lets and winter rentals to golfers. I recommend you keep the property for personal holiday use in May and September, when the climate is perfect and the coast reverts to its normal charm. Despite a highly professional team, I like giving a ‘personal touch’ and encourage clients to use my 25 years in real estate, investment and extensive knowledge of the Costa del Sol. Contact me or my team on (0034) 951 551 444 or info@ OverseasDreams.com
And how’s market inland?
Valley views
GUADALHORCE VALLEY
THE Guadalhorce Valley’s verdant green slopes and rolling landscape offer home hunters a complete change from the Costa Del Sol’s beach life. Clusters of white pueblos splash across the area’s canopy of hills, while the nerve centre town
of Coin is a charming and popular destination. Even better, when a new bypass between Coin and Casapalma is finished this year, it will greatly improve transport links. Richard Woodland, the owner of Property Overseas Group, insists this will be an atJIM traction for prospective buyers. ENA “It will open up better access from Coin to Alora and Pizarra, and the route to Malaga will be a lot quicker,” he said. TERRACOTTA tiles, whitewashed walls and breathtaking mounWoodland, who set up the comtain views; imagine your perfect Spanish idyll, and you’re probpany nine years ago, has had ably thinking about Jimena de la Frontera. an office in Coin for a year. Nestled about 20 miles inland from Sotogrande, the town “There has been a huge is bordered by two rivers and the amazing Los Alcornocales amount of activity this year. Natural Park. And, in fact, in the last month it The area’s outstanding natural beauty, location and excellent has been the best we have ever transport connections has made it popular with expats workseen,” he said. ing in Gibraltar as Karen Banham, managing director of Anda“The area’s very scenic and lucia Country Houses, knows only too well. you can still get a good prop“In the last 12 months the real estate market has really picked erty bargain inland.” up,” she said. And one property’s unique sell“Our portfolio here has expanded from four to 150 in the Jiing point is sure to be a hit with mena area in the last two years. budding Jamie Olivers. “This is an area that has wonderful natural beauty and is close “We have a four-bedroom villa to all the main cities.” in Cartama with a restaurant The lure of the Spanish countryside has made Jimena popular included in the sale for just with artists and those looking to experience a real taste of An€289,000,” said Richard. dalucian village life. “The restaurant has a huge And the hillside town’s train station means Ronda or Anteterrace and is facing the main quera are just a short journey away. road, so has good passing trade But then again, who would want to venture too far from a place for a commercial opportunity.” like Jimena De La Frontera? Contact Richard on 952 81 47 Come and find out yourself and give give Karen a call on +34 80, info@propertyoverseas956 648 016 or email sales@andalucia-country-houses.com group.com, www.propertyoor visit www.andalucia-country-houses.com/index.php verseasgroup.com
Stunning escape
Overseas Dreams www.theolivepress.es
March 19th - April 1st 2015
REAL ESTATE / INMOBILIARIA L EA W D T NO HO UY B
COSTA DEL SOL
N AI ES RG SAL A B NK BA
G IN ITY AZ TUN M A OR P OP
D BE TE 12 STA E
Luxury Villa 50% Reduced
Best Value for Money on the Coast
Spectacular Estate Near Banus
Amazing Mijas Finca Deal
€ 590,000 TOP922 Liquidation sale. New build 1.2 million Euro Luxury Villa now reduced to only €590,000 for urgent sale. This beautiful villa is set in an incredible location with lovely panoramic sea & golf views. Large garden & swimming pool.
€ 103,000 - 155,000 TOP421 Beautiful front line golf development, luxury 2 & 3 bed apartments & Penthouses, heavily reduced by for quick sales, Luxury gated development, classy clubhouse & facilities. One of the best value deals on the Costa Del Sol.
€ 5.450,000 TOP774 Spectacular 8 bed, 8 bath, villa with separate 4 bed villa on lavish 11,000 sqm estate in quiet gated luxury area of El Madronal, set in the Benahavis hills and yet only 20 mins drive to all the hustle and bustle of Puerto Banus, Marbella.
€ 499,000 TO689 Great investment opportunity, Rare 4 bed finca on large 7,486 sqm Plot, between Mijas Beaches and popular Mijas Pueblo. Possible longterm development potential or bargain spacious country home close to everything.
SPECIAL PROMOTION
L B EA UR ID REF R FO
40% OFF OUR SELLING FEES
DY D EN S PA R T NU BA
SELL YOUR PROPERTY FOR ONLY 3% +IVA Front-Line Beach Bargain € 175,000
Stunning Pad Near Banus € 225,000
TOP921
Very rare opportunity, 3 bedroom front line beach apartment with large terrace & stunning open sea views. In need of modernising, hence the incredible price for a front line beach position. Genuine bargain & great investment.
ST E PE YP A E T CH ITS OF
Lovely 3 Bed Villa by Beach € 315,000 TOP923 This beautiful 3 bed villa is situated in the popular beachside area of “El Faro” next to La Cala de Mijas. Tranquil setting yet easy walking distance to beach, shops, bars and restaurants. Heavily reduced bargain price for quick sale.
Stunning front line golf penthouse luxuriously reformed into a trendy open plan home. This unique 1 bed property is bigger than many 3 bed apartments & offers a very stylish & luxurious home in the hills above Puerto Banus.
We need lots more properties for our buyers. If you want to sell, call now for a free valuation & full terms. We heavily market your property throughout Europe, not just Spain. Get the best marketing with one of Europe’s most proactive Real Estate Agents Overseas Dreams is an established & professional Master Real Estate Agency, covering all of the Costa del Sol. With registered offices in both Marbella & La Cala de Mijas. We offer all types of property from bargain bank clearance deals to the most prestigious Marbella mansions. ST E PE YP A E T CH ITS OF
ST E PE YP A E T CH ITS OF
G IN LL ST E S FA
TOP809
Luxury Puerto Banus Penthouse € 369,000
TOP901
Beautifully modernised 3-4 bed finca nestled in the hills on the fringes of Alhaurin El Grande. Private location only minutes drive to all town Amenities & shops. Vaulted ceilings, stunning grounds, panoramic country/mountain views.
ST E PE YP A E T CH ITS OF
TOP787 Best Puerto Banus Deals € 284,000 - 430,000
TOP875
Just released, amazing forced sale deals in Puerto Banus golf valley, Nueva Andalucia, Large brand new 2 & 3 bed high quality apartments massively reduced for quick sales, big terraces, sea views. Selling fast.
Tel: (0034) 951 551 444 Tel: (0034) 646 566 555
Genuine Beachside Bargain € 365,000
TOP870
Front-line 3 bed apartment in award winning & world class Benalmadena marina. Massively reduced for urgent sale. Lovely terrace with stunning marina & sea views. Ultimate holiday home or buy to let investment, genuine bargain.
Bargain Studio Near Beach € 69,000
TOP920
Studio apartment in popular beachside village of La Cala De Mijas. Walking distance to beach & village centre with all its popular shops, bars & restaurants. Sea views and priced low to sell urgently. bargain holiday home or buy to let.
Genuine Beachside Bargain € 229,000
TOP385
Genuine forced sale bargain, beautiful 2 bedroom first floor apartment in popular beachside development near Puerto Banus, only approx 5 minutes walk to beach, bars & restaurants. Perfect holiday home or buyto let investment.
www.OverseasDreams.com info@OverseasDreams.com
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Property
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October 1st - October 14th 2015
Rustic dream SPECIAL FOCUS
IS YOUR HOME READY FOR SOME LOVE?
ique property
Outstanding un
BENAOJÁN,
for sale in
ANDALUCIA
5 5 - rebuilt in 201 • Built circa 189 ble bedrooms • 5 ensuite dou winter lounges • Summer and n/dining area • Rustic kitche tub on terrace • Wooden hot t grounds • Lush, verdan d with fountain • Goldfish pon ol po ter wa sh • Fre antique furniture • Collection of art tion of modern • Eclectic collec tion • Price on applica
BY TRAIN GIBRALTAR
Perfectly renovated country home with stunning, wellappointed rooms comes up for sale in village near Ronda
A
HUGE DELIVERY ELECTRICALS
BEDS, RUGS & FURNITURE
Follow us on Facebook for information, offers and new lines
Yorkshire Linen Warehouse S.L. 11 & 15, Avenida de Andalucía Mijas Costa, 29650, Malaga
Tel: 952 197 577 Email: info@yorkshirelinen.es Visit our new website at www.yorkshirelinen.es VISIT OUR NEW FURNITURE STORE BEDS AND MORE SITUATED RIGHT NEXT DOOR tel: 952 667 095 info@bedsandmore.es
Located... mutable n station - com • Next to BenaojáSan Roque to Gibraltar via Granada, Ronda to Seville, • Train links via Madrid etc. del Santo k from Molino • 4 minutes wal g hotel & restaurant an award winnin Guadiaro Rio enclave above • Lush verdant Nieves Natural Park in Sierra de las car by 15 minutes • Ronda only minutes by car • Coast just 45
LOVINGLY restored five-bedroom house, walking distance from an award-winning hotel and restaurant and commutable from Gibraltar, has just come on the market. Casa Rio Vista is located in the village of Estacion de Benaojan, near Ronda, and is a mere three-minute walk from the station and sits in breathtaking mountain scenery. lable from: Further details avai The line is part of the famous ‘Mr Henderson’s Railway’, engineered and built by the British in the 19th century. laga las, Manilva, Má y.com 4, 29692 Sabinil esestateagenc Running from Algeciras to Bobadilla, which is often deC/ Isaac Peral 221 www.castl 891 952 4) Tel: (+3 renovation scribed as the ‘Clapham Junction’ of Andalucia, from beforehere Casa Rio Vista connections can be made to almost any city in Spain via the AVE. The British-owned house is only 400 metres from Andalucia’s third-leading hotel according to TripAdvisor, Molino del Santo, an extremely popular British-run, hotel and restaurant, which has treated locals and discerning foodies from the coast and Gibraltar for nearly three decades. When the owner discovered the ruin, which had been abandoned for decades, the roof had collapsed and the residents were basically a herd of goats. But he fell in love with its charm and location and using highly-skilled local craftsmen he has managed to reinstate the property and grounds. Reclaimed doors from a convent were hung and architectural fittings and stairs purchased from dealers throughout Andalucia. The grounds were landscaped and planted to form a verAL-ANDALUS: The interior has an Arabian feel dant enclave in the elevated position above the fast-moving Guadiaro River, which teems with fish and attracts wildlife. A popular walk - one of Andalucia’s best, according to writer Guy Hunter Watts - runs practically from the door down the river to Jimera de Libar. As well as local craftsmen the owner was keen to use local materials. The next pueblo along, Cortes, has a small ceramic studio run by a Spanish artisan and located next to alluvial strata of clay.
Beautiful
The artisan collects the clay from the river bank, crushes it and makes both ceramic and terracotta tiles to her clients’ designs and specifications. The house was slowly and lovingly restored over the course of a decade and almost became a work of art in itself, as it was reconstructed in the classic ‘estilo Andaluz’. The result is breathtaking with the five bedrooms all en-suite, a large kitchen/diner, a winter lounge with fireplace and office space on top. A beautiful summer lounge opens onto a shaded terrace and the sound of a goldfish pond’s tinkling fountain. The property is furnished with a wonderful collection of antiques and an imaginative collection of Andalucian and modern art, as well as Roman antiquities. There is very much a feel of Al-Andalus to the house, with Arabic-styled arches, as well as exposed oak and pine beams geometrically set above an amazing elliptical staircase. In an alcove within the garden is a rock pool that is fed from a mountain stream via an aqueduct. For an evening meal, apart from the Molino, there is, within the village, Asador Muelle and Bar Stop. It provides a three-course lunch for just €8. And a small gem in the village is the store that stocks all essentials. Ronda is a 10-minute drive away and, if you want the buzz and action of the coast, that’s just 45 minutes, while it is more than commutable to and from Gibraltar by train, via San Roque station. But then again, you might end up moving here falling in love with its peace and quiet and never leaving again. Price on application via estate agent Castles in Manilva www.castlesestateagency.com
EXPERIENCED ENGLISH SOLICITORS & SPANISH ABOGADOS Looking to buy a Spanish property? Contact us for your free guide to buying Spanish property safely & securely. We provide a wide range of legal services including: Conveyancing
Litigation
Inheritances
Road traffic accidents
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Email: enquiries@mylawyerinspain.com Telephone: (+34) 951 203 094 from the UK 0845 508 2395 www.mylawyerinspain.com Offices: Marbella, Torrox, Murcia, Almería, Alicante & Valencia.
Property
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March 19th - April 1st 2015
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Property
Win-win situation www.theolivepress.es
October 1st - October 14th 2015
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Spain and Gibraltar’s big winners in the World Travel Awards 2015, writes Iona Napier IF you are a hotel owner, it doesn’t get much bigger than winning the World Travel Awards. And a number of local hotels, businesses and resorts have come up trumps in the latest set of gongs. We knew businesses were on the up, but these awards are an official reminder that business is
LUXURY: El Oceano Beach Hotel, Mijas, boasts a stunning seafront infinity pool and (inset) Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort in Las Palmas
back on track and flourishing. In fact, the entire Iberian peninsula came out smelling of roses this year, with big winners not only in Spain but a notably increased presence of Portugal in European tourism. As voted by travel agents worldwide, the 22nd annual ceremony unfolded in Sardinia, here’s whom to watch…
Continued next page
TRAVEL TROPHY: Hotels like La Caleta in Gibraltar did well
36 10 the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
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Property
www.theolivepress.es
GLORIOUS GIB
ANDALUCIA’S HOME-GROWN WINNERS
From Previous Page
Fair play to Cadiz – Spain’s best all inclusive resort
Caleta cleans up: Gibraltar’s primary conference centre, iconic hotel AND foremost spa A HAT-TRICK of prizes left La Caleta hotel reigning victorious at the awards. Fellow nominees in the categories – O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel, the Sunborn and the Rock – were pipped to the post by the four-star hotel overlooking Catalan Bay.
GOLDEN sands and refreshing breezes, the Costa de la Luz is a dream destination and the villagelike Fairplay Golf Hotel & Spa in Cadiz has taken the all-inclusive trophy. “We have seen difficult times and it’s really great to have this boost to get back on track,” said managing director Martin Schneck.
FIRST resort – Spain’s winning spa resort THE healing waters and health benefits of the Hotel Villa Padierna Thermas Carratraca near Malaga are known as far away as Scandinavia. The queen of Norway even came here to get pregnant! “Our in-house doctor and nutritionist make it a destination for many kings of Europe and it is in a very special place,” said general manager Jorge de Almeida.
Ocean’s edge – Spain’s finest beach hotel
Fit for a king – Spain’s classiest hotel residences
MIJAS costa is the proud winner of Spain’s best beach hotel with El Oceano Beach Hotel leading the way. The privately-owned seafront hotel is within striking distance of Miraflores Golf Club and Fuengirola Bioparc zoo… something for everyone!
FOR the utmost in luxury facilties, the exclusive Kempinski Hotel Bahia Estepona (top) has led the way in hotel residences with unparalleled suites, ahead of three top Barcelona hotels and one Mallorca resort.
Villa perfecta – Spain’s most luxurious hotel villa A PRIVATE chef is most people’s idea of luxury. But what about massages at dawn, caviar for brunch, a butler, maid, private spa therapist and 24-hour nothing-is-toomuch-trouble service at Marbella Club Hotel’s Villa del Mar? The winning pad is set in 6,200m2 of beachfront bliss.
SUPER SPAIN
Spa-rry eyed : Europe’s leading hotel and spa CLINGING to a cliff in Mallorca, the luxury Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel and Spa has won the coveted prize of the best hotel/spa combination in all of Europe. The brand has been voted the Middle East’s best hotel chain several times.
Barca’s ship sails in - Europe’s top cruise port AND Europe’s best meetings & conference centre GAUDI knew it, Dali knew it, and now the world knows that Barca is worth a trip. The port has won Europe’s best cruise destination, beating Copenhagen, Amsterdam and three Turkish ports after Lisbon took the trophy last year. It’s a double win for Barcelona, also voted the best place for business conferences for the second year running.
Med capital Mediterranean’s no. 1 beach hotel THE Mediterranean boasts a huge range of beach establishments, so Alicante’s Diamante Beach Spa Hotel’s win is all the more impressive. The hotel, in Calpe, beat Cypriot, Italian and Greek equivalents.
Cha-ching! Europe’s best casino resort JUST off Morocco’s western coast, cash registers are clanging as tourists clean up in Europe’s best casino resort. Gran Canaria’s Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort on the southern coast fought off the competition from France’s Evian Resort, St Moritz’s Kempinski and even Nice’s Palais de la Mediterranee.
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the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
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Top Dollar 39
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the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
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Higher and higher A MASSIVE 47.2 million tourists hit Spain between January and August. These are record figures, 4.1% up on the same period last year and indicative of a recovering economy. There were 9.2 million holidaymakers heading to Spain in August alone, 1.6% up on the same month in 2014. Most nationalities have shown more inter-
est in a Spanish holiday compared to last year with the exception of the German market. In fact, the French and the British accounted for 23.3% and 22.6% respectively of all tourists coming to Spain in August this year. The Asian market is also growing with 22.1% more tourists coming to Spain compared to last year.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ikea invests IKEA is set to invest €12.3 million to revamp its shops and boost Spanish sales figures by putting more emphasis on food.
Poverty line BANK BONUS: Brits abroad to get UK accounts
Expats bank boost
New rules to give EU residents access to UK accounts EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan EXPATS in the EU will be able to open a basic UK bank account from 2016. The UK Payments Accounts Regulations of 2015 comes into effect from next September, meaning expats will be able to benefit from an account in sterling. Savings accounts, credit card accounts and current account mortgages will be exempt. But the British Bankers Association (BBA), has questioned whether the regulations could facilitate money-laundering. A BBA spokesperson told the Olive Press: “The regulations as they stand are not clear on a number of issues which we would like to see addressed. “The banking industry is working closely with the Treasury to discuss concerns
over the application of antimoney laundering rules. “It is important that banks are able to serve their customers without compromising their ability to manage risks.” So far, nine banks - Barclays, the Co-operative Bank, HSBC, Lloyds, National Australia Group, Nationwide, RBS, Santander and TSB have agreed to open basic accounts to expats. Brian Cave, a campaigner for the rights of Britons abroad, said he had mixed feelings about the new regulations. “It has been deplorable that British citizens outside the UK cannot open accounts in British banks,” Mr Cave told the Olive Press. “But we should have access to to all bank accounts, including savings accounts. It’s a toe forward, when we need to put a great big foot forward.”
Fashion fever lifts retailers RETAIL giant Inditex has seen business grow by a quarter this year, recording net profits of €1.17bn between February and July.
SPAIN’S geographical wealth divide is starkly illustrated in a new report, with the country’s 10 poorest towns all in the south, according to AIS Group.
Drive out Uber A 300-strong taxi convoy from Spain descended on Brussels in September to campaign against ‘viciously competitive’ taxi app Uber, which is banned in Spain.
Tickets please A TICKET for a La Liga football match costs an average €68 - the second most expensive in Europe behind the Premier League at €73.
Every little helps
THEY stopped short of charging you to use the toilet. But budget airline Ryanair still makes a staggering 25% of its income from those added extras. The company made a whopping €1.7 billion from baggage charges, booking fees and in-flight sales of food and beverages in 2014. This is almost double the €745 million which came from extra fees in 2008. Low budget Hungarian airline Wizz Air and Jet2.com made 34% and 29% of their profits in extras. On average, Ryanair makes €18.90 per traveller in extras while British Airways makes just €8.02.
Care workers in court boost BRITISH care workers could see wages rise after the European Court of Justice ruled in favour of a Spanish trade union that challenged Tyco, a multinational fire and security company, over changes to paid working hours. The company had closed its regional offices, requiring employees to drive up to three hours to appointments, which wasn’t classified as
part of their working day. The judge ruled this could be against the European working time directive. Dave Prentis, of the Unison union, said the decision was ‘bound to have a significant impact in the UK, particularly on home care workers’. Thousands of care workers are often not paid for the travelling their jobs require.
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FUENGIROLA: Masmovil by Mimobile • Avda. Jesus Santos Rein 17 • Tel: 952 666 373 | FUENGIROLA: Mimobile • Centro Finlandia • C/Oliva 3 • Avda. Los Boliches • Tel: 952 197 510 | FUENGIROLA: Daytona • C/ Martinez Catena 1 • Edif. Sol Playa 6, Local 27 • Tel: 952 667 395 | FUENGIROLA: Rambo Telecom • C.C. Miramar, Local B-35 • Tel: 952 463 800 | MARBELLA: Talk & You • Urb. Pueblo Andaluz • Plz. Santa Mónica, Local A • Tel: 952 835 879 / 644 481 349 | MIJAS: Conrisa Sistemas de Servicios S.L. • Centro Comercial Cala Sol, Local B-19, Edif. B • Boulevard La Cala de Mijas • Tel: 902 027 178 | MIJAS: Ideadata • Centro Idea • Ctra. de Mijas • Tel: 951 230 250 / 658 022 195 | MIJAS COSTA: Servicios Informáticos Wise S.L. • Avda. España 1 • Calahonda • Tel: 952 939 321 | NUEVA ANDALUCIA: MobileSpain, Centro Plaza Local 17 • Tel: 693 787 779 | NUEVA ANDALUCIA: Schoof Seguros, C/ Los Jazmines, 400-B • Tel: 647 741 834 | SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA: Best in Spain, Ed. San Pedro del Mar, Local 3A • Tel: 952 783 980 | ESTEPONA: EportBiC, Estepona Harbour, top floor, Local 2 & 3 • Tel: 952 793 476 | BENALMÁDENA COSTA: Videoclub Diablito • Avda. de la Constitución 37 • Edif. Galivan, Local 5 • Arroya de la Miel • Tel: 952 440 671 | CALETA DE VÉLEZ: Movilnet • Avda. Andalucía 107, Local 2 • Tel: 951 209 100 Plan valid nationwide with the pay as you go payment method. Valid for national and international calls to landlines and mobiles and national browsing (excluded are services with special plans, countries not included in this offer, roaming and wap traffic).The bundles can be activated and renewed separately. If there is not enough balance to renew all contracted bundles the bundle with the highest fee will be the one renewed. If there are two bundles with the same fee the data bundle will be the one renewed by default. National voice bundle: call set up included. If plan not renewed or if no voice bundle is bought: calls between MÁSMÓVIL clients 0 cents/min the first 10 minutes of every call plus call set up (18,15 cents), from minute 11: 6 cents/minute. Calls to all other operators 6 cents/min plus call set up (18,15 cents). Internet bundle: exceeding the 300MB / 600MB bundle speed reduction included for the first 100 MB at 16kbps. Exceeding rest of data bundles: speed reduction at 16kbps the first 200MB. After reaching limit of speed reduction navigation will be cut off. Price per MB if no data bundle is contracted: 3,63€/MB. Minimum monthly consumption if plan not renewed or if no voice or data bundle is bought: 3€. International bundles: voice bundle with 100 minutes to all international destinations included. For minute price when exceeding international voice bundle and all possible destinations visit our website www.masmovil.es/en. National SMS 9,68 cents. Plan meant for Mobile phone usage. See rest of conditions on our website MASMOVIL.ES
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Top Dollar
Bringing up baby
If your savings are your ‘baby’, why entrust them to a babysitter, writes Saltydog ARE your savings and investments your ‘baby’? It is a simple question. Will you, or an outsider, have the most interest in securing you and yours a comfortable future? Believe me, today’s politicians and financiers are not going to come to your rescue. Now is the time for all good men and women to come to the aid of their own savings. This may seem harsh, but consider the everincreasing demands that are being made upon European governments in terms of social welfare, education, pensions, the health service and now, migration, all of which require funding. Unfortunately we have reached the stage where these demands cannot be met without governments holding out their hands to the taxpayer. And that means you. If you have have ambitions of leaving an inheritance; if you do not want to be a financial burden on your family as you reach your later years; if you want to continue with the holidays and the golf club membership… then you must start to make your savings work
hard now, and make them continue to work hard for the foreseeable future. At The Saltydog Investor we believe in ‘Momentum Investing’, using weekly unit trust fund and asset sector performance numbers. Momentum Investing is the closest to realtime investing you can get. We liken it to a relay race. When a sector is doing well, then you choose a performing fund from that sector to carry the baton. When that sector runs out of puff, you hand it on to the fund in the next sector that is pulling ahead and gaining momentum. You are, in fact, making use of the fund managers and their analysts when they are right, and moving on to another team of winners when your present ones start to falter. That is a lot of knowledge you are harnessing. You can examine this approach to investing by going to the Saltydog website and reading the details for yourself. Better still, you could take a two-month free trial to experience what is involved before committing to any expenditure. The graph (below) demonstrates that a sensible return is absolutely achievable. You can ensure your ‘baby’ grows buxom and healthy, regardless of today’s challenging market conditions! Go to www.saltydoginvestor.com to subscribe now! For a FREE TRIAL call +44 7899 990473
40 October 1st - October 14th 2015
Old-aged workers SPANISH workers are retiring later than many of their European counterparts because of changes to the minimum pensionable age, new data shows. Spanish men average retirement age is now 62.3 years, while for women it is 63.2 years, according to data published in the Funcas Focus.
These figures are higher than the corresponding ages for Germany (62.1 and 61.6 years, respectively), Italy (61.1 and 60.5) and France (59.7 and 60). But Spanish workers retire earlier than those in the UK, they plough on until an average age of 63.7 for men and 63.2 for women.
Bridge battle Cadiz’ leftist mayor accuses PP of turning bridge-opening ceremony into pre-election rally
THE mayor of Cadiz has engaged in a war of words with Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy over the city’s iconic new bridge. José María González claimed the town hall hadn’t been officially informed of last month’s official opening of
BRIDGING: Troubled waters The 1812 Constitution Bridge. His Por Cádiz si se Puede formation, which is backed by anti-austerity party Podemos,
IBEX leaps by a third
SPAIN’S top-listed 35 companies earned 34.1% more in the first half of 2015 than a year ago. The IBEX 35 made a net profit of €21.4 billion in what was the highest percentage jump since 2006. Spain’s banking sector showed a 48% rise, with profits up to €7.98 billion. The best figures came in January-June 1999, when profits of €33 billion were posted.
was angered at the perceived slight, especially as the mayors of Madrid and Barcelona were invited. “This is disloyal to the Cadiz people,” he said. “This isn’t the PP’s bridge; the bridge has come from our citizens’ incredible efforts in a time of crisis.” However, after publicly making the accusations, Gonzalez was apparently formally invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, along with Puerto Real mayor Antonio Romero.
Road to Riches, by Richard Alexander
Interesting times
W
ITH the recent financial data in the UK and America’s latest decision to leave interest rates where they are, we have for the first time seen speculation that they could turn negative in the UK. Is that likely to happen? I personally don’t think so but it does raise some interesting questions. A negative interest rate would suggest that banks and financial institutions would need to charge you for looking after your capital. Not possible, you may think! But that already happens with banks which are not meeting the Bank of England lending targets, for example. Talking of lending, would a negative interest rate mean that you would be paid interest on a mortgage? Again, in real terms this won’t happen because mortgage deals will typically have a floor level below which they cannot descend. The real message is that it really does look as if interest rates will remain low for the medium term. And, even if they do start to rise next year, the increments are likely to be very small and spread out to help soften the negative impact on the economy; and, more importantly, on borrowers who have now been used to record low interest rates for nearly eight years! So where should you turn if you are looking for a reasonable return on your capital, or perhaps need to generate some income from it? While a traditional answer might have been to look to the bond market, government-issued bonds such as gilts have been overpriced for some considerable time now. You might look towards corporate bonds, issued by companies looking to raise capital without going to a
Taking a look at the possibility of a negative interest rate traditional lending source or diluting their equity. The problem here is one of risk – unless you are very selective, the risk level you are taking could be off the scale you are comfortable with. If you turn to so-called ‘alternative investments’, again the question of risk has to be considered. Once again we are starting to see ‘exotic’ investment opportunities but they are typically not for the faint-hearted and are not always what they appear to be, so be careful. Another traditional alternative is to invest in property, which has worked very well for many people over the years but is not the solution for all. Property can be illiquid, so you may not be able to get your capital back when you want it. Property requires maintenance and you also need to be certain of receiving a rental income to meet your expectations. Annuities were designed to provide a regular income and they have their place. However, typically, you will be sacrificing all or some of your capital to secure the guaranteed income an annuity will provide. There are other options available too, which fall into risk-managed categories, so talk to your financial adviser. But please make sure they are properly-licensed and regulated, and be sure to get their advice in writing.
Richard Alexander Financial Planning Limited is an appointed representative of L J Financial Planning Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK. Contact him at Richard@ra-fp.com
Top Dollar
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AGONY ANT
Talk to the legal expert
YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY ANTONIO FLORES
S
TICKS and stones may break your bones but (bad) words can also harm you, and your pocket, in Spain. Using threatening, abusive or insulting language against a person can be a costly exercise if your ‘victim’ decides to see you in court. Repetitive use of bad language, the specific circumstances in which it is hurled (private or public) and, more importantly, your choice of words may all aggravate the outcome. But how do law courts evaluate the level of seriousness and what are the words that will secure a fine, or even a conviction, if reported to the courts and/or the police? The Spanish Criminal Code, for obvious reasons, has not compiled a list of offending language but has left it to the general public and society to quantify the degree of the insult. As the courts speak for society in this respect, let’s see what they say: Cordoba Court: Levied a €60 fine for a name-caller who labelled the victim ‘conceited’, ‘manipulating’, ‘a blackmailer’, ‘arrogant’ and ‘a bumpkin.’ Burgos Court: Fined a drunken reveller €60 for calling someone ‘a lowlife’, ‘son of bitch’ and ‘a scumbag’.
ASBESTOS EXPOSURE
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Exposure to asbestos can lead to a variety of
Mind your language! Mouthing off in Spain is putting your foot in it big-style when the law intervenes, writes Antonio Flores Barcelona Appeal Court: Fined an ex-wife for hurling abuse at her former husband. Her choice of words – ‘fxxxxxx coward’, ‘shyster’ and ‘crook’ – secured her a €100 fine. Ciudad Real Court: Slapped a €900 fine on a bill sticker for posting notices in strate-
gic points of a village with the following wording: ‘Juan the crook, Juan the swindler, Juan the thief. He claims poverty and buys himself a new car. Supreme Court: Fined a policewoman €1,600 and ordered payment of €6,000 in moral damages for calling a
colleague a ‘family-tradition adverse health conditions. Although these whore who has secured promotions thanks to her leg-opening conditions often arise many years after you skills’. Supreme Court: Ordered three have come into contact with asbestos YOU regular guests attending a may still be entitled to compensation. Telecinco gossip show to pay €120,000 to a celebrity for hurling the following colourConditions include: ful words and phrases: ‘twofaced’, ‘embittered’, ‘clown’, Pleural thickening Mesothelioma ‘coward’, ‘swindler’, ‘clumsy’, ‘son of a bitch’, ‘daft’, ‘lacking Pleural plaques Lung cancer in class’, ‘pig parents deliver swines’ (Spanish saying), ‘vil Fribrosis Asbestosis lager’, ‘illiterate’, ‘silly cow’, .................................................................................................. ‘hustler’. The size of the compensation was in proportion to It is essential to contact a specialist solicitor. the prime time exposure enjoyed by the show. Wolferstans has an experienced team of In the following case, a disgruntled litigant who was serving a lawyers who can ensure you obtain the prison sentence sent a letter to compensation to which you are entitled. the deciding judge with the following content: ‘Complaint directed to the Magistrate so that FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE everyone knows that you are one drug-trafficker, arms smuggler, LEGAL EXPERTS ON: corrupt queer, I would kill you for Tel: 0044 1752 292362 free if I could you son of a bitch.’ The level of the fine - €360 Email: dcruickshanks@wolferstans.com was in sharp contrast to the 15-month term of imprisonWebsite: www.wolferstans.com ment also imposed for the death threat, as the sentencing judge understood that the letter was openly distributed in prison, where the felon was already serving time. Gfdh
Hgf
Wolferstans is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Wolferstans North Hill office SRA number 75407. The Plymstock office SRA number 75408.
Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.es
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GOLF In the swing of it
42 www.theolivepress.es 42
September 3rd - September 16th 2015
Rio goal for Jimenez ONE of the world’s most flamboyant golfers has his sights set on the 2016 Olympic Games. Cigar-smoking Spaniard Miguel Angel Jimenez says he ‘is very interested’ in making the grade despite turning 50 last year. With just ten months until the teams are selected, Jimenez is currently in line to partner compatriot Sergio Garcia for Spain. “Of course I would like to be in the Olympics,” he said. “Can you imagine Miguel Angel Jimenez in Rio with a big fat cigar, walking through the middle of the Olympic Village with all of the athletes around? I would love that.”
Presenting the
Premier prizes Football aces Steven Gerrard and Robbie Keane get Costa del Sol golf tournament into the swing of things A PAIR of former Premier League superstars backed a Costa del Sol golf tournament from their new stomping ground across the pond. Ex-England skipper Steven Gerrard and Ireland’s all-time top scorer Robbie Keane donated a signed LA Galaxy shirt to a Malaga children’s cancer charity.
essentialmagazine
The Sala Super League raffled the football top for the Malaga Association of Oncological Volunteers (AVOI) at its monthly golf tournament on Saturday at San Roque Old Golf Course. LA Galaxy and Ireland captain Keane said: “We are delighted to help you guys for such a brilliant cause.
“I hope you send as many as you can to Disneyland Paris. Best wishes and well done.” The event raised €4,100 for the AVOI. Both Keane and Gerrard have been snapped on the Costa del Sol’s greens with the Irishman last making an appearance back in 2012 with compatriot Shay Given.
Olive Press Adv:Layout 1 10/09/2015 09:16 Page 1
®
Golf fair tees off COSTA del Sol golf fans will be able to swing along to a brand new fair this November. The Costa Golf and Lifestyle Show is bringing over 40 exhibitors to the luxury H10 Andalucia Plaza Hotel in Puerto Banus over November 14 and 15. Golf holidays, properties, fashion and equipment will be on show for people who can’t keep away from the fairways. There will be be a series of activities for those attending and coaches to ferry people to the hotel. The event is being sponsored by Lynn Fischer from Ladies Golf Marbella.
A Gibraltar Icon...
w w w. e s s e n t i a l m a g a z i n e . c o m
STARS: Gerrard and Keane
Jon is top amateur BUDDING Spanish golfer Jon Rahm-Rodriguez has been crowned the world’s number-one amateur player. Rahm-Rodriguez, 20, tops the 2015 World Amateur Golf Ranking and will join the likes of Sergio Garcia and Miguel Jimenez at the US and British Open. “I am honoured by this award,” he said. “I also feel great pride in being the first Spanish golfer to receive this distinction.” Ireland’s Leona Maguire was announced as the leading women’s amateur.
We are very pleased to announce the opening of our new office in Fuengirola. Please telephone Paul: for the very best discounted golf times on 952 479 004 or Email: paul@gastongolf.com Pop into our office next door to the PYR Hotel on the Paseo Maritimo, Fuengirola.
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Motoring giant on trial
AMERICAN automotive giant General Motors is being sued in Cadiz for causing mass unemployment. Eight years ago, the company suddenly closed every single Opel factory in Andalucia. That forced the bankruptcy of Colansa, a dealership that sold Opels in Cadiz city and Jerez, and led to all 150 of its workers losing their jobs. The Commercial Court of Cadiz is now hearing the case, following a complaint against GM filed by Colansa’s insolvency administrator. The lawsuit cites the breaking of an agreement between GM, MALE cyclists aged 15 to as the manufacturer, and its 24 are more likely to be hit distributors, including Colansa. by cars than anyone else, It calls for damages that male or female, says a Uniwould meet all of Colansa’s versity of Granada study. outstanding debts. Researchers also found General Motors is expected to that men aged over 35 are send several members of its letwice as likely to die if they gal team to the trial, while witare hit while on two wheels. nesses from dealerships across The study of more than Spain are scheduled to testify. 50,000 cyclists revealed General Motors produces vethat men in all age groups hicles in 37 countries under 13 are more likely to be hit brands. by cars than their female counterparts. In none of these cases were the reasons given. Lead researcher Virgina Ruiz plans to take her findings to the country’s traffic authorities in the hope of ‘educating’ cyclists and motorists alike.
Male cyclists in road danger
LOVED: Hatchbacks
Sweet ride ENGINE TROUBLES: Volkswagen could go bankrupt
Off the wagen THE emissions scandal enveloping German motoring giant Volkswagen is to have a ‘grave’ knock-on effect on Spain’s car sector. VW subsidiary Seat is under scrutiny from Spain’s government with up to 500,000 altered engines allegedly being installed in Spanish cars. Parent company VW is at risk of going bankrupt as it faces a €24 billion-law suit for lying about emission levels, with 900,000 cars recalled in the USA.
Volkswagen emission scandal hits Spain as Seat comes under scrutiny Seat has admitted that it had equipped some vehicles with the Volkswagen EA189 engine in question. An urgent meeting between 28 member states within the EU’s industry commission has now been called with Volkswagen a predominant car manufacturer - and job
provider - across the continent. A total of 11 million VW cars worldwide have been fitted with the controversial programme that manipulates its output of polluting gases. The company’s CEO Martin Winterkorn has resigned amid intense criticism.
Roadside SOS SPAIN is visited by 60 million foreigners a year, and a massive 26,000 of them had a road accident in 2014. A considerable 20% of these claims were from French drivers, according to Spanish motor insurers bureau Ofesauto. Cars from the UK were the second most likely to get into a scrape, followed by Germany and Portugal. As for Spaniards driving abroad, there were almost 5,000 accidents last year, with the highest concentration in France and Germany. FOREIGNERS: Accident prone
WHETHER they’re navigating Barcelona’s backstreets or cruising through the Sierra’s Nevada’s mountain passes, it’s official: Spaniards prefer hatchbacks. The Citroen C4 has been the most sold car in Spain this year, at 24,897, according to the auto manufacturers association, Anfac. It was followed by the Seat Leon, Seat Ibiza, Renault Megane, VW Golf and VW Polo. By brand, VW was the biggest seller. In 21st place, 164.4% more Opel Mokkas were sold up to August this year than in the same period last year. Overall, it has been a bumper year for the Spanish automotive market. A total of 714,062 vehicles were sold up to August.
Rob o’clock A CAR is stolen every hour in Madrid. The barrios where vehicle robberies are most likely are Puente de Vallecas, Vicalvaro and Usera. The safest parts of town are Fuencarral-El Pardo, Chamartin and Barrio Salamanca.
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recruitment
Join Our Award Winning Team as a LIVE-IN CARER Working in the UK Do you have experience in care professionally or with a family member or friend? We offer; Above average market salary • Industry leading employment packages Paid holidays • Unrivalled carer support Ongoing excellent training & development programme Subsidised travel costs • Induction training in LONDON or SPAIN Flexible working patterns to support a good work/home life balance (Examples of working patterns: 2 weeks on 2 weeks off, 4 weeks on 2 weeks off)
Make a Difference to Someone’s Life & Yours Contact ANNE GREATREX on 0034 965 713 746 or 0034 628 343 240 or email: anne.greatrex@thegoodcaregroup.com
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Columnists
48 48 the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015
Getting down to some fiscal belt-tightening… Marbella style!
Downsized Abbey A
LIFE OF EXCESS: For Giles Brown
S an exercise in fiscal responsibility, the past couple of months have seen me trying to downsize. Freelance journalists such as myself lead a hand-to-mouth existence, or more frequently, glass to mouth. One of the most important journalistic skills that I brought back from my time in London was my ability to hear the popping of a champagne cork or the rustle of a cocktail napkin at a restaurant function from 300 metres. A skill that has served me well ever since. Though I might have also inherited that particular talent from my long-suffering father, who can effortlessly graze a free buffet in the style of a herd of wildebeest across the Serengeti. But here a a few tips for living simply on the coast. One of the major problems is the fact that ‘cash is king’, especially if you spend most of your time in Marbella. If you want to be popular in this town, just rock up with a huge pile of cash, wave it around and see how many new friends you get. You are also
likely to find yourself with a sultry new eastern European girlfriend. Which brings us to my next, admittedly bitter and twisted point. If you are one of those deeply spiritual individuals that posts life-affirming stuff on Facebook, then you’ll know the hoary old chestnut ‘If you love someone set them free. If they don’t come back then they were never yours’. If you do think it’s time to re-evaluate your relationship with the blinged out bimbo from Belarus, try the equally life-affirming slogan.
Alternative
‘If you love someone, cancel their Gold Card and delete their dealer’s number from their mobile. If they don’t come back they were never yours...’ Downsizing doesn’t mean that you have to put a dampener on your social life, however. Staying in is the new going out. If you want to recreate the fun of hitting the clubs in Banus, merely tune into a dance
Off my trolley!
W
E do it once a week, only a minority of couples enjoy sharing the experience and 67% of women prefer to do it alone, according to ‘retail anthropologists’, aka people in America paid to come up with the staggeringly obvious. That’s the big ‘grr-ocery’ shop and we women could have told them for free that men are useless at bringing home the right
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channel and jump around the living room in the dark. You can replicate the thrill of buying a dodgy gramme by placing packets of crushed up slimming tablets around the house. Let’s face it, that was probably what you were buying in the first place. Should you wish to simulate the busy opening of a new restaurant merely invite your neighbours over and then squeeze into the pool pump room while holding a small plastic glass of vino collapso and greasy bit of jamon. Finally you should consider alternative ways of raising cash. Half of the coast seems to be baking cakes at the moment and growing your own fruit and veg is also an excellent way of healthy living and saving cash. Dabble in the more exotic variety of herbs and you might even make a few euros. The most important relationship if you want to downsize, however, is with your bank. As them to extend your credit facilities during this time of fiscal belt tightening. And if all else fails, in true Marbs style, rob it!
I am being turned into a basket case by men in supermarkets bacon. Why it is that guys who are perfectly capable of making decisions when seated behind an office desk are at a total loss when asked to produce an inventory of domestic requirements otherwise known as a shopping list? According to research, most men never write one. They stare into the cavernous wastes of a refrigerator bereft of staples, then bring back crisps and pickled gherkins and enough beer to refloat the economy but nothing you can actually combine to make tonight’s dinner. Perhaps the emasculating act of pushing a supermarket trolley causes a testosterone blockage that leads to a brain melt-down. But when will men learn that that the first priority, when entering a Spanish supermarket, is to take a ticket for your turn at the meat counter? There’s nothing that turns me into a basket case quite like the sight of my loved one languidly feeling up avocados while a queue longer than Syrian migrants at the Hungarian
AISLE TAKE THAT: Shop rules border is building up in the butchery department, wanting everything cut up ‘en trozitos’. And unless your relationship is rock solid, steer well clear of the pick-and-weigh because what it is about men and tomatoes? Why can they never pick a firm salad tomato when they seem to have no problem at all in the breast department? Another rule of thumb is, never split up. You won’t find him again, no matter how many aisles you look down, until you meet up at the checkout. Then you’ll spend another ten minutes removing half the trolley contents because your credit card won’t cover them, which drives everyone else crazy. But if you have shopping intolerance, join the queue. The average human spends 273 days of their life waiting in line and men must take some of the rap. They behave like kids in supermarkets. They want alphabet
spaghetti and Variety Pack cereal. They want Tibetan goat’s cheese and kumquats and they want to go to another shop for the Guinness where they do it in widget cans. And never let them roam free in the toiletry department, where they’ll be thrown into a panic attack by 50 flavours of toothpaste (with or without fluoride, coloured, white, gel or striped), ten fragrances of deodorant (stick, ball or aerosol?) and hair sprays with more varieties of hold than you’d find in the World Wrestling Federation handbook. We won’t mention the size of the bill, the last time I last let Him Indoors loose in Mercadona, the fruit mountain in the fridge (what do you do with kumquats anyway?) or the tube of Preparation H he mistook for moisturiser. But even if neither of us suffer from piles, it’s not all bad news. Sandra Bullock swears by haemorrhoid cream for reducing wrinkles!
FOOD & DRINK
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the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th
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Chef showdown It’s wooden spoons at dawn as Spain’s top online chefs are announced
SPAIN’S ten most popular chefs on social media have been revealed - but the Spanish owners of the World’s Best Restaurant Award are not on the list. Basque chef Karlos Arguinano comes in at number one, with over 1.3 million followers on Facebook, Twitter, Google and Instagram. His sister Eva comes in second with 653,000 fans, with the siblings’ television profile ensuring them vast army of followers. However, the Roca brothers, who own El Celler de Can Roca, are not on the list, IT used to be the world’s best with their world-renowned restaurant, but now Noma in Catalan restaurant keeping Denmark is upping sticks in an a low social media profile. attempt to knock Spain’s top Madrid maestro Alberto restaurant of its lofty perch. THE Mediterranean Diet Chicote is in third place with El Cellar de Can Roca claimed may soon be renamed the his blend of traditional recithe top gong at the World’s 50 Medical Diet as now it’s pes and innovative styles Best Restaurant Awards for even better for you than earning him 584,000 fans. the second time in three years, Three-Michelin star bearer first thought. while Noma came in third - its A high intake of fish, plant Martin Berasategui’s solowest ranking for seven years. foods and olive oil has been phisticated Basque fare is And in an attempt to return linked to the reduced risk of fourth, while food writer to the glory days - when it was and cook David de Jorge, breast cancer. named the world’s best resbetter known as ‘Robin The Lyon Diet Heart Study taurant three years in a row Food’, rounds off the top in Spain found those living Noma’s chef Rene Redzepi is five with 325,000 social meon a Mediterranean diet moving on. dia followers. were 61% less likely to con- Jordi Cruz, Bruno Oteiza, Closing on New Year’s Eve tract breast cancer. in 2016, Noma will reopen in Quique Dacosta, David MuConsumption of olive oil has noz and Juan Mari Arzak 2017 as the centerpiece of an Local issue 46:The Local Issue 5 5/13/14 10:54 PM Page 104 also been linked to lowering entire urban farm in Copenmake up the remaining five heart disease risk. hagen. places. OFF: Noma chef
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Recipe for success GIBRALTAR is undoubtedly made special by its melting pot of cultures, and the food is no different. It appears the Rock’s celebrity chef Justin Bautista, now with his own show on GBC, may have some female competition. Zoe Anna Torres, 38, has just launched a new cookbook exploring the multicultural flavours of the Rock’s cuisine. Maltese, Genoese, Spanish, Moroccan and British sections all feature in The Rock’s Kitchen, with the pages sprinkled with the author’s childhood recollections. The book aims to promote Gibraltar through the best of its cuisine combined with anecdotal accounts of her life.
It’s raining cookbooks on the Rock as a second author showcases Gibraltarian cuisine to the world
“Each recipe is one piece of the puzzle that is Gibraltar’s people and our culinary influences,” Torres said. “I asked many friends and relatives how they made particular dishes. Each gave
Zero beer FANS of alcohol-free beer are clinking glasses as a new low-cal brew hits the market. Heineken is launching its first-ever ‘Zero’ beer in Spain, with no alcohol and a low calorie count. Branded under Spanish franchise Cruzcampo, the beer will also have a lime twist. Spain is Europe’s top producer and consumer of alcohol-free beer, with 60% of beer drinkers opting for booze-free varieties.
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Heritage ale AN artisan beer company is raising a glass to an ancient Malaga site’s UNESCO bid in a doublebarrelled promotion. Menga is adopting the slogan ‘stone by stone’ from the Dólmenes de Antequera’s application to become a UNESCO World Heritage site. The blonde ale, named after the town’s megalithic burial mound and 100% brewed and bottled in Malaga, is available throughout Andalucia. The hashtag #piedrasobrepiedra is being used to push both beer and bid.
Cheers-burger NEW CHEF ON THE BLOCK: Torres me their own ‘secret’ recipe passed down through the generations, written on scraps of paper blotted with grease passed down by their grandmas.” The mother-of-two, whose culinary skills are entirely self-taught, came runner-up in the Rock Chef 2013 competition. The Rock’s Kitchen can be purchased online from Amazon.
WHAT better way to say happy anniversary than a burger and a glass of vino? That’s exactly what Burger King is doing to celebrate 40 years in Spain. Customers who share their Burger King experience will have a chance of winning one of 40 limited edition bottles of Whopper wine. The wine has been flamegrilled using Burger King broilers and aged in wooden barrels, giving it a taste to perfectly complement the Whopper, according to Burger King. To enter, upload a photo to BK Spain’s Facebook page, write a story or submit a YouTube.
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Simply hamazing! Over 200 ham handlers unite in Spain in charitable world-record event A MALAGA town has carved up the world record for the most people slicing jamon at once. Sierra de Yeguas drew 202 ham handlers from all over Spain making the previous record of 161 look ham-fisted. Spanish carving champion José Manuel Hidalgo and world-record holder Noe Bonillo were among those demonstrating how not to make a pig’s ear of the technique. But the nifty knifers weren’t just hamming it up. Their efforts helped raise money for Manuel Correro, a local man suffering from the genetic disorder Marfan syndrome and in need of an operation in Germany to repair damaged connective tissue in his body. Event organiser and professional ham cutter Manuel Novoa has now thrown down the HAMMING IT UP: Slices of heaven for food-lovers gauntlet for other cortadores as competetion gets going to try and best them. “I am overjoyed that we beat the record,” he said. “I chalFLOWER POWER lenge any group to try and beat by Steven Saunders it and then we will beat it again. of the Little Geranium “It is competitive but it is in the name of a good cause.”
Hungry hordes
FINE-DINING tourists are spending millions eating out in Spain, a new report says. Spending in Spanish restaurants reached €38,300 million last year, according to the study by the University of Lleida. The Ministry of Tourism estimates that the 9.5 million foreign tourists who came to Spain with a strong interest in local cuisine spent on average €108 dining out each day.
Steak for a Sheik Local masterchef Steven Saunders of BBC TV Ready Steady Cook fame takes a trip down memory lane in Abu Dhabi
I
N a previous life (before the Little Geranium) I was CEO of a hospitality company that looked after some of the most famous Formula 1 circuits, including Silverstone, Monaco and Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi. I got to meet many of the drivers, among them Jenson Button whom I came to know well. He booked his wedding at my hotel near Cambridge in the ’90s but split from his fiancée and cancelled it! He is a very likeable guy, one of the really genuine ones. A few years later, I bumped into him when we were running the multi-billion dollar Yas Marina circuit and he said, ‘Hey, thanks for giving my deposit back!’ I cooked for many of Abu Dhabi’s potentates, among them HH Sheik Hamed Bin Zayed, one of the rulers. I prepared him a very simple BBQ one lunch time with steaks that we had specially imported from Argentina (just like those on my menu at The Little Geranium). I also made a sashimi of smoked salmon which I smoked myself (you’ll find this dish on the Geranium’s menu, too).
Classically, in Argentina, they serve their meat with chimichurri sauce. I had never made it before and the Yas Marina internet had gone down so I couldn’t check the ingredients. I knew the meat was going to be great and I had blackened it a little on the barbecue, keeping it pink and rare in the middle, as it really tastes good like that. Sheik Hamed didn’t come up to the BBQ so I brought him a selection of steak and meats (not pork, of course!) and a choice of sauces and dips. At the end of the evening he asked to see me personally. I walked up to his table and this very well-spoken, elegant, British university-educated gentleman enquired, ‘Did you cook the beef and that green sauce?’ (This is a man who travels in his private jet and yacht worldwide so he would know a good sauce.) ‘Er, yes I did your highness,’ I replied. ‘Well chef,’ he said. ‘It was the best chimichurri sauce that I have ever had.’ I uncrossed my fingers and toes to shake his hand and he courteously (but genuinely) said: “Chef, I could go anywhere in the world to eat but I am the hapSteven’s chimichurri for steak piest man in the world when you cook for me, Ingredients please can you cook for me again over 1 large bunch of parsley the F1 weekHalf bunch of coriander end?” 6 cloves garlic sliced “Yes your 1 sweet Spanish onion sliced highness, 1 teaspoon of dried red chilli flakes of course, it 1 tablespoon of sweet chilli sauce would be my 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar pleasure,” I re2 tablespoons of good olive oil plied. 1 dessertspoon of honey “And bring some Maldon salt to season of that chimichurri with you please,” he Method added. When I got back to the Blend the herbs, onions and the garlic to a hotel I checked the inrough paste in a food processor. Now add the chilli gredients for chimichurri sauce and the chilli flakes and the olive oil and vinegar online. It was nothing like and the honey. If a little thick, add a touch of water taste what I served him! I have and season with salt. to agree, though, it did taste great and makes The sauce should be green and thickish with speckles a pleasant change with of red chilli. In Argentina they use a red pepper that is beef. slightly spicy but is difficult to get that over here. Anyway, here it is, my origiThey also use fresh oregano but I have never seen that nal chimichurri sauce, made personally for His Highness over here, only dried oregano. of Abu Dhabi. Try it with the Spoon it into a small dish and allow your guests to best bit of beef you can get. spread a little over the beef as they wish. It is great with Naturally, it’s also on the barbequed meats. menu at The Little Geranium!
Steven Saunders FMCGB - www.thelittlegeranium.com steven@thelittlegeranium.com 0034 952 49 36 02
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Say cheese After Spain’s top cheese was honoured at the UK’s Great Taste Awards, Nina Chausow took a tastebud tour of Andalucia’s best efforts
THE BIG CHEESE: On offer in Andalucia
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T was tough cheddar on Andalucia’s ruminants when Basque sheep ran away with the top prize for their smokey-flavoured Artza Gatzai Idiazabal at the Great Taste Awards in London. But it wouldn’t be stating the bleating obvious to reveal that Andalucia produces 27 different Denomination of Origin (DO) cheeses of its own. Whether you prefer crumbly ewe’s milk cheese or the more pungent product made from nanny goat’s milk, Nina Chausow picks out five ‘big cheeses’ that are among Andalucia’s best - baa none!
1.
Queso de las Alpujarras:
Made from the pasteurised milk of Alpujarran mountain goats, this cheese has a spicy, buttery flavour with a hint of salt. Aged for four months, the cheese pairs well with typical Andalucian wines such as Fino and Manzanilla, as well as older amontillado sherries.
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4. Queso Montes de Malaga:
AGED WELL: Queso de las Alpujarras
Sourced from the rainiest area in Spain, this famous Andalucian cheese can be found all over, from Harrods in London to cheesemongers in the US. The brand makes fresh and semi-cured cheese from the payoyo goat native to the area, and often covers its wheels with butter, rosemary, wheat bran and red pepper.
The cinnamon-coloured goats of the Montes de Malaga produce milk used for yogurt, ricotta, and a variety of differently-treated cheeses. The semi-cured goats milk cheese pairs spectacularly with honey and walnuts, while the raw milk cheese is rubbed with Iberico pork fat to add a rich flavour.
Peeling away the shiny yellow rind, this ivory white fresh or semi-cured cheese is made from the milk of the merino sheep, an endangered species protected in Malaga. The disc-shaped cheese is coagulated in artichoke thistle and aged for eight weeks minimum. The end result is a soft, malleable cheese that can be spread on crusty bread.
This sheep-milk cheese produced in Aracena often comes with rosemary, paprika or raisins, and is positively yummy when paired with honey. The strong-smelling cheese is produced the old way, by hand-milking and hand-curding, and slowly DELICIOUS: Queso de la Serena and (inset) Queso matures in cold stores to develop its rich taste. Payoyo de Grazalema
2.
Queso Payoyo de Grazalema:
3.
Queso de la Serena:
5.
Queso Monte Robledo:
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“You certainly know how to make a woman feel special Honey-Bun”
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Top tapa IT’S official: for the second year running, the best tapas in Mijas Pueblo can be found at Bana Bana Cafe. Head chef Txelo Gonzalez wowed the crowds with her innovative duck confit, foie gras and truffle milhojas with lemon ice cream. The stunning creation won the top prize at his year’s Tapas Route’s best dish, out of around 2,600 entries across town.
Magic
“I am very proud that Txelo has won ‘best tapa in Mijas’ again, she is guaranteed the chef with the most passion and love for food in the village,” said expat owner Thomas Weller. “Once we renovate the place she’ll be even better equipped to work her magic in the kitchen, and we aim to be a dining reference for the whole Costa del Sol.” Weller owns a string of Mijas eateries including Latitude 30, Secret Garden, Aroma Cafe and Taberna Meginez.
“That’s the magic of Molino del Santo, Cutie Pie”
Cooking up a storm
FOOD AID
A dog’s life,
I
“Not every hotel is in The Times’ top 20 for foodies in Europe, Precious Princess”
Spain’s soup kitchens serve up a new record
AN incredible 54,891 meals were served up in Spain’s soup kitchens in 2014. Volunteers came in their droves to the rescue of people struggling to put food on the table. Spain’s food kitchens were full to bursting in 2014, with 11.7% more mouths to feed than in 2012 according to INE’s recent statistics. Across the nation’s 619 shelters, volunteers served up 18,998 breakfasts, 19,025 lunches and 16,868 dinners in 2014. However, the good news is that the number of people spending the night in Spanish refuges fell from 14,038 to 13,654 (2.8%). Spain’s capacity for providTHE Red Cross is distributing 716,000 kilos of food be- ing beds is 16,486 in the tween 25,700 Cordoban people. summer months and last The delivery of basic provisions to impoverished Spanish year saw an average occuparesidents is the second phase of the volunteer organisation’s tion of 83.1%. 2015 plan. But occupation was far The scheme, which is being promoted by the government’s higher in Ceuta (128%), Spanish Agricultural Guarantee Fund, will feed people in 90 the Canary Islands (99%) provinces. and Melilla (98%). Olive oil, rice, baby food, tuna, chickpeas, vegetables and Murcia (55%) saw the lowpasta will be among the basic food stuffs handed out. est demand for a bed for the Phase one of the plan started before the summer, with a night, followed by La Rioja third food distribution to come at the end of the year. (64%).
AM over the moon. After more humans than I can count, a dog has come to stay at the hotel. And not just any dog. This is another abandoned dog like me. Of course I had to put on a brave front when we first met – lots of barking and plant irrigation – it’s useful that I carry my own watering-can! I’m sure you want to know all about him. I can’t tell you his real name for data protection reasons but if I change it to Tim that should do it. Tom, oops I mean Tim, (almost gave it away there) is a black spaniel. The good thing is that he’s only just found a loving home so he’s not as brave as me. (I’m not sure what a coward is but I’ve been described as that many times.) Anyway Tom, I mean Tim, and I didn’t really engage in any deep, tail-wagging way but we did go for a walk together. It was the first time I’ve ever had a friend to show off to the other dogs in our area. I played it cool, showing him how to chase sticks. He doesn’t know about sticks yet. He’s not into romance either – like me, he’s been ‘seen to’. However his mistress, whom I’ll call Jell to protect her identity, is lovely. She even left me some chewy treats when they left. Thanks Jill. Oops, I mean Jell. My master says to tell you that the hotel is not a boarding kennels but well-behaved dogs are
“The food, the peace, the relaxation, the setting... I dream about our visit to Molino Poppetty-pop”
HELPING HANDS: At soup kitchens
by Eddie the hotel hound
Dog days
Eddie pals up with a new four-legged friend
“Not every ad has this many ridiculous endearments either....” Head for the hills near Ronda to discover for yourself why so many people rave about Molino del Santo. It might be that delicious food, or the friendly atmosphere or the stunning setting or the perfect peace or the total relaxation or the wonderful walking. What will you most love at Molino del Santo? Visit soon - either just for a meal in the riverside restaurant or to stay in the comfortable rooms. Special overnight rates available from just €99 including breakfast for The Olive Press readers. It’s only an hour from San Pedro by road to another world where you will feel yourself unwinding. Or why not come by train from San Roque in just over an hour? Full information sheet available or call reception for assistance of any kind.
Call 952 16 71 51
Make someone important in your life feel special at Molino del Santo soon. But don’t leave it too late - the hotel and restaurant close on the 9th November 2015 (2016 season opens on the 4th March) Great
l0lIdeas ke the to ma of the most AREA A ROND with y Chapell d by And Compile
the help
Free Guide to 101 THINGS TO DO IN THE RONDA AREA available by e-mailing info@molinodelsanto.com
FRE E GIF T
ie the dog of Edd
CALL OR E-MAIL TO BOOK OR FOR MORE INFORMATION
TEL: 952 16 71 51 info@molinodelsanto.com Full menus available on the website www.molinodelsanto.com NEW MATE IN TOWN: Tom, no it’s Tim allowed in some of the outside rooms – and only ever one dog at a time. If you don’t like dogs, please don’t worry that you’ll be both-
ered by them. He – the boss (sic) – guarantees that you won’t. Back to my basket to dream of that special walk.
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
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More information of any kind e-mail
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www.molinodelsanto.com | info@molinodelsanto.com | 952 16 71 51 ESTACIÓN DE BENAOJÁN, NEAR RONDA, MÁLAGA
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Sunk...
Holy message
Tomb raters
A GIBRALTARIAN priest has been applauded for his work as the Pope’s personal translator, making his Spanish addresses accessible for English-speaking audiences.
FINAL WORDS
Hopeful terms
advice
A VILLAGE 78km inland from Valencia is offering one family a €200/month house and a full-time waste collection job to move there, because the school needs two more students to stay open.
Shandy please SCOTTISH footy fans have been warned they may be breathalysed before entering the Algarve Stadium to watch their side’s European Qualifier against Gibraltar this month.
Winter is coming THE first snowflakes have begun to fall on the Sierra Nevada ski resort, as the site gears up for its winter opening at the end of November.
...and sinking SURROUNDED by super yachts and speedboats, the sad sight of a semi-sunken ship in Gibraltar has melted many a skipper’s heart over recent months. But despair not, the half submerged vessel in Ocean Village is to be lifted from its
watery grave and moved to a more appropriate underwater site to encourage marine life. When the ship is moved to a nearby reef, biologists believe the boat will encourage the growth of marine flora and more fish… not to mention a great place to dive.
Blowfish!
Shocked fishermen land an unexploded bomb after pulling in their nets
A CREW of fishermen had the fright of their lives when they netted an unexploded bomb amid their normal catch. The missile emerged as the team on the ship Nuevo Go-
Relax.. Jacks got it covered
FRANCE - ITALY - PORTUGAL
A PAIR of bobbies at Barcelona’s port were left with their heads in their hands after one of them drove their car off the edge of the road into the sea. The vehicle was left half-submerged after the driver failed to stop when he meant to, confusing the break for the accelerator. A police spokesman said neither officer was hurt and put the confusion down to the fact that the driver was not used to manual transmissions, which have clutches to go with them.
A GROUP of ancient tombs are set to gain UNESCO World Heritage status after Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy threw his weight behind the bid. On a whistle-stop of the region, Rajoy walked around the Antequera Dolmens site before talking up the three megalithic tombs’ cultural importance Two days after the PM’s visit, UNESCO inspectors arrived to assess the bid for the three dolmens Viera, Menga and El Romeral.
By Joe Duggan
die pulled up their nets before docking in Estepona. The deadly device immediately caused alarm, leading to police cordoning off the port and bringing in bomb disposal experts. The Spanish navy was duly brought in and the bomb was taken to a quarry in San Roque, where it was detonated safely. The origin of the missile is not known, but it’s the second
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ARNOLD Schwarzenegger is back...in Spain. The Hollywood megastar jetted in to Madrid to judge the pumped-up pecs at a bodybuilding event. The ex-California governor, whose career started as a bodybuilder, said: “Coming to Madrid is one of the highlights of the year, since I filmed Conan the Barbarian here, 35 years ago.”
Barca bad boys BARCELONA stars Neymar and Mascherano are being investigated by tax authorities. The Brazilian striker has had more than €40 million of assets frozen by a Brazilian court, which alleges he declared only €4.4 million between 2011 and 2013. Meanwhile, Mascherano has been charged with defrauding the tax authorities out of €1.5 million over image rights.
bomb in three years that has been hauled ashore by Estepona fishermen. In 2012, a 200 kilo device which was caught in a boat’s nets was deactivated by bomb disposal experts.
PRIME SUPPORTER: Rajoy (centre)