Property www.theolivepress.es
olive press
www.theolivepress.es
November 2017
Issue 17
Heads up!
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
Find out how drones are changing the property game and how they can help you sell your home
SEE PAGE XVIII >>
The thinker’s finca
DON’T think about it too long… but this historic home once owned by one of the godfather’s of Spanish philosophy has just come up for sale. The 1,500 metre square country home, Casa Mata, was once owned by Mallorcan philosopher Ramon Llull, who wrote in Catalan. Credited as being one of the forefathers of the Catalan language, Llull even has a university named after him in Barcelona. On sale via various agents, the stunning hunting estate in Mallorca has 53 hectares of prime land and numerous outbuildings. The 13th century writer and artist was hugely influential on the island and once taught king James II of Aragon. Llull lived in the huge estate near ANCIENT: a Llull book Algaida from 1250 until a series of six religious visions led him to leave his family to lead a life as a missionary converting Muslims and Jews to catholicism. He wrote over 200 works during his life and has a tomb in Palma’s basilica of St Francis, currently being restored. His family sold the home in the 16th century. It sits near Llucmajor on the road from Randa to Montuiri.
The Brits are back
PHILOSOPHER’S STONES: Thinker Llull (left) once lived in stunning Casa Mata
Bring it on S PAIN’S property market is set for another healthy year. Sales and prices are expected to rise… as long as there are no sudden economic shocks, predicts one of the country’s largest agents. According to Anticipa sales will rise by 9.3% next year to 526,000 properties, up from 481,000 this year and 21% more than in 2016. Prices are also expected to rise by 6.1% next year, on top of an expected
Another 12 months of growth in Spain with 10% more sales - as long as Catalunya is dealt with
6.9% this year. Prices for resales and new builds meanwhile, are expected to continue to increase by 5.8% over the fourth quarter of this year. The firm’s latest report, however, was compiled before Catalunya declared independence and Madrid imposed
13
direct rule. The region is regarded as the wealthiest in Spain and its capital Barcelona has seen some of the highest property price rises this year. It is hoped that the political uncertainty will not affect sales too much, particulary as regional elections have now
been called for December 21, and the situation has calmed down. However, this has not stopped some of Spain’s largest property companies with links to the region, seeing their share prices slump. Merlin Properties and Colonial fell by 5.3% and 6.4% respectively at the height of the independence crisis. Investors, though, are adopting a ‘wait and see’ policy in the run up to the elections.
BRITISH buyers have bounced back in Spain over the second half of the year. According to one key developer, the number of British buyers has more than doubled on the same period last year. Between July and October 2017, homebuilder Taylor Wimpey has seen a whopping 118% increase in buyers from the UK. “We are extremely proud of the results generated to date in 2017,” said sales boss Marc Pritchard. “And it is great to see the British buyers back. “They have been half of the buyers in the last four months.” So far this year, Spain’s leading housebuilder has reported a 13% increase in sales (388 properties) compared to 342 homes last year. Enquiries for holiday homes during the summer season were up by 13% - the biggest growth seen in the last six years.
Buying or selling?
III 14
www.theolivepress.es Property
November 22nd - 2017 December 5th 2017 November
www.laherradurahomes.com
Visit o u SHOW r FLAT on sit e 35 recently finished townhouses with 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms all with big terraces, sea views, garage, storage and community pool within a short walk to the beach and amenities from 265,000â‚Ź
Call our on site sales office on 652 736 253 or email us at costadelsol@maklarringen.se Bought to you exclusively by
Maklarringen is a Swedish real estate agency with 70 offices in Sweden and a long presence in Spain and on the whole Costa del Sol.
www.theolivepress.es Property
November 22nd -2017 December 5th 2017 November
XV 15 15
Winks moves in on the Costa
ENGLAND star Harry Winks has invested in a new development on the Costa del Sol. The Spurs midfielder is a shareholder at the Heights, at La Resina Golf Club, in Marbella. The 11 opulent new villas, developed by the La Sala group, include infinity pools, wine cellars and 24 hour security. They also have direct access to the celebrated golf course. “Each villa has specially designed entertainment areas to enjoy the uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean,” said a spokesman for The Heights. Harry Winks & Michael Campbell become “The breathtaking ambassadors for the new luxury villa project environment comes The Heights at La Resina Golf in Marbella with elegant contemporary architecture achieving the perfect The Heights is a new luxury development of 11 unique private balance between villas in a secured gated golf and country club estate in design, comfort and Estepona, Costa del Sol. The team behind the project proudly respect for nature.” announced its two top sports stars as the official ambassadors The sale comes a month after the Winks recently made of The Heights - the Tottenham and England player Harry Winks authorities sold his Mallorca home and the former U.S. Open Champion Michael Campbell. his debut for Engfor €2 million. land in a 2018 FIFA Tottenham's latest young prodigy loves spending time Cup in The seven bedroom property in World Qualifier Marbella, which is what sparked his interest in The Heights and Playa D’Or, near Santanyí, boasted against WINKS: Invests in therefore not only he became an ambassador but he is also a Lithuania Winks announced as the ambassador of the two outdoor pools and glorious sea and has madeHarry eight shareholder in the development.
luxury villa project in Marbella
Marbella’s Heights views. starts for Spurs so
(below) The second celebrity ambassadors this off unique is the far this season. The authorities have alsoforsold a project one and only New Zealand former professional golfer He Michael joins a long list property in Ibiza for €450,000 and Campbell, who after retiring decided to move with his family to other footballers, who have invested via the a house in Marbella centre for2005ofU.S. Marbella. He is best known fortown having won the Open La Sala group including David Bentley, Stephen €700,000. and the richest prize in golf, the £1,000,000 HSBC World Match Carr of and15Shay Given. Play Roca Championship, in theconvicted same year. - who was asWith the a total wins worldwide he has played on the USGolfer PGA tour., Michael Campbell is one of the ‘ambasBIRD’S EYE: professional ringleader of the massive corruption on the European Tour and on the PGA Tour of Australasia.
View of estate scandal that tainted Marbella for sadors’ for the Heights development, where prices start at 1.275 million euros. decades has been jail for less more The Heights villas- were officiallyinreleased than a month ago
Snatched!
Disgraced Marbella town planner to lose his biggest property asset
A
S well as languishing for decades in jail… disgraced Marbella town planner Juan Antonio Roca has lost the crown jewel of his property portfolio. Malaga court has sanctioned the sale of his huge Murcia estate, La Loma, for €18.5 million. The sprawling Los Alcanzares estate, has been sold to a huge agribusiness, known as the ‘grandfather of the melons’. The 82 hectare estate, which is full of orange, lemon and mandarin trees, failed to reach its estimated value of €27.5 million.
The estate has a huge 1,200 square metre mansion with 10 bedrooms, nine bathrooms, three kitchens, an office, gym, cinema room, pool and helipad.
with athan launch that was attended by the Mayor of Estepona 10event years. José María García Urbano, Ipswich Town FC Captain Luke The authorities have so far raised It was here that police found Joan Chambers, Birmingham City goalkeeper David Stockdale, around €75County million the professional Manager of Derby Garythrough Rowett, former Miro paintings on the wall and nufootballer and Manager former footballer auctioning off of Michael assets Brown, including merous priceless antiques when Stephen Carr,cars, former England midÞelder luxury watches, weaponsDavid and Bentley, along they raided the home as part of the with the team behind The Heights - leading Football Agent Rob horses. This goes towards paying off massive Malaya investigation. Segal, Ian Radford and Federico Gonzaléz to name a few.
Roca’s civil and criminal liabilities.
rising opposition HUNDREDS of angry locals have protested against a planned skyscraper in Malaga’s port. Organised by Defend Our Horizon, the march was joined by representatives of political parties Podemos, Izquierda Unida and Malaga Ahora. An estimated 300 protestors demanded more consultation on the project, which they say will only benefit wealthy Malaguenos. So far 6,000 people have signed a petition opposing the development (left), that would include a hotel, casino and luxury flats. Defend Our Horizon spokesman Juan Antonio Trivino explained that the site was public, but would be ‘privatised for the benefit of a few’. Qatar-based Al Bidda Group has been given permission to build Suites Malaga Port on the jetty beside one of the oldest continuously operated ports in the Mediterranean. Suites Malaga Port, which will open in 2020, will reportedly have 352 rooms, parking for 485 vehicles, and a spa, shopping centre, conference centre, and swimming pools.
Border business WORK on a new €10 million shopping centre is set to begin in Fuengirola next summer. The 21,000 square metre plot will straddle the Fuengirola and Mijas borders, near Camping Fuengirola. The centre will create an estimated 200 new jobs when complete. Final plans are being agreed, but will have to be passed by the Junta before work begins.
About The Heights
The Heights is a new luxury development of 11 unique private villas in a secured gated golf and country club estate. Each villa enjoys uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean whilst situated front line on the 4th, 5th and 9th holes of the La Resina Golf Course. Located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, La Resina is only a few minutes drive from the white washed old town of Estepona, the stunning old town of Marbella and the luxurious port of Puerto Banús.
The second ambassadors is the former U.S. Open Champion Michael Campbell
Melanie Warwick (Development Manager), Michael Campbell (Ambassador), José María García Urbano (the Mayor of Estepona), Ian Radford (developer), Federico Gonzaléz (developer)
The safest way to conduct your legal affairs in Spain
Intu the blue THE largest commercial and leisure centre in Andalucia is one step closer. Prelimanary surveys have been completed for the huge Intu shopping centre, which is to be built in Torremolinos. Representatives from the British developer were on the Costa del Sol to visit the huge site near the Palacio de Congresos. The mega-site, which includes hundreds of shops, restaurants and even a dry ski slope, will create an estimated 4,000 jobs.
www.fairwaylawyers.com Tel. 952 77 11 50 diego@fairwaylawyers.com
Central Office: C/ Nuestra Señora de Gracia 28 1º C 29602
XVI 16
F
Property
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - 2017 December 5th 2017 November
Spain is the foreign favourite and Brits are still out in front, writes Mark Stucklin
OREIGN demand for property in Spain rose 11.6% in the third quarter of the year, driven by global buyers compensating for lower British and Scandinavian interest, according to data from the latest housing market report from the Association of Spanish Registrars. Some 15,312 home sales deeds involving a foreign buyer were inscribed in the Spanish land register in the third quarter of the year, up 11.6% compared to the same period last year, but down 1.8% compared to Q2 of this year.
Growing
As a result, foreign buyers are now 12.9% of the Spanish housing market, down from 13.3% a year ago, simply because local demand is now growing faster than foreign demand. Demand for Spanish property today is global, but just eight countries (excluding Romania and Morocco, which would be the 7th and 9th respectively, if not excluded) contribute 56% of buyers, led by the British as always, with 2,252 purchases recorded in the period (15% of foreign demand), followed by the French (1,299 transactions, 8% of foreign demand), and Germans (1,192 sales, 8% of foreign demand). Out-
16
this rate. There was robust growth of 15.6% in Russian demand after several years of big declines, and reasonable growth of almost 6% from France, the second biggest market today. At the other end of the scale, British buyers continue to decline in the wake of Brexit, while Sweden and Denmark both fell by 7.5%. The overall picture, however, is another quarter of growing global demand for homes in Spain.
British demand for property in Spain Q3 2017
Foreign affairs
side the big eight markets, the rest of the world (including Romania and Morocco) delivered 6,744 buyers in the period, 44% of total foreign demand.
How is foreign demand for property in Spain changing? Overall, foreign demand for homes
in Spain increased by 11.6% in Q3 compared to the same period last year. Looking at the change in demand per country, we see strong demand up more than 20% from Romania, China, Holland, Ukraine
and the ‘rest of the world’, and a big increase of almost 20% in demand from Germany – the third biggest market and on course to overtake France in the number two spot at
British demand for property in Spain was on fire after the crash ended in 2012-2013. UK investors were attracted to Spanish property by low prices and rising confidence, with demand growth close to 50% or more in many quarters between the start of 2014 and the beginning of 2016. However, after the Brexit vote in June 2016, British demand declined significantly, but only for a few quarters. It now looks like British demand will return to positive growth in the next quarter or two. It looks like Brexit was just a temporary set-back. What is driving the change in British demand? More than anything, in my opinion, the Pound-Euro exchange rate that determines British spending power in Spain. British demand for property in Spain lags behind the exchange rate by a couple of quarters. I’ve also heard reports of a recent flood of enquiries from British clients looking to escape Brexit Britain and the hard-left Government that looks likely to control it. Interesting times when Spanish property is seen as a safer bet than British assets. www.spanishproper tyinsight. com
www.theolivepress.es Property
November 2017
XVII
November 22nd -2017 December 5th 2017 November
III 17 17
Madrid by sea Town near capital set to have Europe’s biggest man-made beach
E
UROPE’S largest man-made beach is coming to INLAND Spain. The 15,000 square metre stretch of sand is being installed in the town of Alovera, 50 kilometres north of Madrid. The €14 million leisure project will also feature a huge inland lake, created by Chilean company Crystal Lagoons. Developers Grupo Rayet predict the attraction will be visited by around 250,000 people a year paying €10 a head. Computerised images show windsurfers, kayakers and swimmers enjoying themselves in Caribbean-style transparent water. A restaurant, beach bar, toboggan slides and a sailing school, plus 1,000 parking spaces are to also be built. The project is expected to create more than 300 jobs and the beach, which will be open all year, is expected to be open by 2020. The project is likely to lead to the town of Alovera expanding by up to 10,000 residents, particularly as some 4,000 homes are also to be built in the area.
MOCK UP: Visitors hang out by one of the several restaurants and bars planned for the area
Elegant Marbella Estates
Tel 951 087 933 · Mob 635 389 285 · sales@elegantmarbella.com · www.elegantmarbellaestates.com
A1278 · Apt in Calahonda · €182.500 2 beds · 2 baths · Fully furnished · Sea views Glazed terrace · parking places · 2 pool areas ·
V1264 · Villas in El Higueron · From €850.000 4 beds · 4 baths · Large garage · Pool · Garden Sea views · New Promotion Villas
A1274 · Apartment in Costabella · €370.000 3 beds · 2 baths · Garage · Storage · Sea views 2 Tennis courts · 3 pools · First beach line
A1276· Apt in Calahonda · €205.000 4 beds · 3 baths · Sea views · Pool · Garden Large terrace · Comm garden · Parking area
V1242 · Villa in Mijas Costa · €648.000 5 beds · 5 baths · 4 Terraces · Large garage Pool · BBQ house · 2 entrances · 2 gardens
PL1274 · Hacienda Las Chapas · €655.000 Garden plot for villa 1710 m2 · Build 800 m2 Sea views · Close to sea · Gated plot
XVIII 18
www.theolivepress.es Property
A cut above
November 22nd - 2017 December 5th 2017 November
END RESULT: One of VillaPix’s portraits
Using a drone can really mean lift off for any property on the market to sell or rent
T
HE drone was already over 100m into the air and going at a rate of knots, before the device hit a temporary hitch. As if 45 degree slopes and a legion of cypress trees to avoid was not enough, the alarm had gone off on the console and wouldn’t go off. Quickly establishing this was no issue with batteries, the team Gary Edwards and Dave Vickers from VillaPix soon realised that this was a warning about a restricted zone. Despite being in the heart of the Serrania de Ronda, a few miles outside the historic market town, there was oddly a ‘no-fly’ ban over 100m in the air. Both experienced photographers, they were well used to the rules involving flying around airports, royal palaces and sensitive city zones. So what was this? It turns out the ban was due to the Spanish Foreign Legion base a few kilometres up the road and, as Gary explained they could still get the perfect aerial shot, but they would be very careful not to break the rules, something that is important to note. Since the emergence of commercial drones a year or two ago, a raft of aerial production companies have launched in Spain offering the service to rental homes and particularly estate agents and developers. But few are properly licensed, understanding the laws of flight, not to mention having any clues about proficiency. “Becoming legal is expensive and involves taking courses,” explains Gary, who has lived in Marbella for two decades. “There are theoretical exams covering ‘AESA’ regulations, international air law, meteorological conditions, theory of flight, communication, as well as a practical exams.” On top of this, the vast majority of companies have no understanding of visual marketing and how to best process the captured photos.
1
2
3
UP UP AND AWAY: But the pair have a lot to check before the final result (4)
“It’s one thing to string together a series of aerial images, another to make those images function, reach their target and get your phones ringing,” adds Dave, who has been a filmmaker and photographer for two decades. The pair - who have travelled extensively working for Turkish Airlines over the last four years saw the opportunity to launch their product earlier this year as the property and tourism market began to grow again in Spain after years of recession. With tons of international experience - both as agency photographers and filmmakers - they are in the perfect position to offer not just the perfect angles to promote your property, but know how to stage it first … and finally how to best deliver the finished product be it film, stills Carlos Hotel, Molino del Santo, El Oceano and or video. Sunset Beach Club. Before the “We really try hard to elicit the shoot, the pair sit correct feel of our surroundings, down with their clients and discuss in length what The final product how each shot would influence a prospective client and why, and they are looking to achieve from is little short of of course what could be done to the filming. shot in post-production to “This way we can decide how amazing and the each help the final image.” the shots need to be set up and He continues: “Large properties which props may be required and pair don’t limit on the Costa del Sol are often where they should be. Attention themselves built on hilly plots. To get a photo detail can be the difference tograph of the whole property is between a good image and a very difficult as the cameraman stunning image,” explains Gary, has limited space and is unable who has worked with many of Spain’s top hotels and beach clubs, including Nikki Beach, the Don to get the distance from the house. “With the availability of the drone, the problem is solved - often only 15 or 25 feet off the ground can be the difference between a very ordinary image and a stunning one combining the property, the gardens, pool and the view.” He goes on to explain the complicated new laws brought in by this fairly new flying technology, and that using a licenced company is vital to avoid any fines in the future. “Be warned this is very important. It could have expensive implications for your business.” One client, Gabriella Chidgey, at www.alcantarilla.co.uk, whose house near Ronda features in these images, was blown away by the quality of images, many which are now on her website and being used by some of the UK’s top rental agencies. “All in all, the final product is little short of amazing, and the pair certainly don’t just limit themselves to the aerial drone shots… they did a range of pictures inside and out with a series of different cameras. VISUALISING YOUR SHOT: No better way than at Estepona Golf
4
TRADITIONAL: The pair also do standard pics “Even better they were very fussy on getting the right items for the set up. This included colours and the right shaped towels! They both knew exactly what would work best.” Apart from villas and hotels, the company has been using its drones for golf courses, most recently Estepona Golf and the 5* Monte Rei Resort in Portugal.
Contact VillaPix at villapix.es or call 610713334 or 618876348
www.theolivepress.es
MARBELLA EAST
Ref: OP10064
Beach side! Rusticstyle villa in Elviria
MARBELLA CENTRE
4-bedroom villa within walking distance to the beach, supermarkets and restaurants and just a 10 minute drive to Marbella centre. Central air conditioning and heated pool. Must be seen!
GOLDEN MILE
Ref: OP10134
2-bedroom beachside apartment completely refurbished and located in the heart of Marbella Centre. Views to the sea and overlooking the plaza.
GOLDEN MILE
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
Built: 72 m² Including terraces Price: € 275,000
Renovated, bright & spacious 2-bedroom apartment with mountain views. Gated 5-star complex with 24-hour security in Las Lomas del Marbella Club.
Ref: OP9735
Charming 4-bedroom villa distributed on two levels. Located in La Carolina, walking distance to the beach and all amenities.
NUEVA ANDALUCÍA
Ref: OP10102 Built: 135 m² Terrace: 67 m² Price: € 495,000
Built: 286 m² Plot: 892 m² Price: € 950,000
Built: 344 m² Plot: 1,052 m² Price: € 1,295,000
Ref: OP09929
South-facing 5-bedroom villa, walking distance to Puerto Banús & Centro Plaza. Heated pool & Jacuzzi. Up to 18 guests. Great rental potential!
Built: 357 m² Plot: 917 m² Price: € 950,000
Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club Hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es An International Associate of Savills
Regulated by RICS
19
III 20
www.theolivepress.es Property
November 22nd - 2017 December 5th 2017 November
The new moneycorp bank explorer MastercardÂŽ With you every step of the way. Our new explorer card is the ideal solution for anyone looking for a smart way to spend overseas, allowing you to load multiple currencies at once, and access your money at millions of locations worldwide, online and in person. The best bit - all your overseas withdrawals will be completely fee-free*.
What do you get? Lock in exchange rates before traveling
Use the card to make online payments
Load funds in up to 10 currencies
Withdraw cash at an ATM fee-free*
The card is accepted in millions of locations and
Move funds to and from your moneycorp bank
ATMs worldwide
deposit account in a few clicks
Manage your account online 24/7
Chip and PIN protected
To open your moneycorp bank account and begin to benefit from our explorer card and other banking services: Visit www.moneycorpbank.com Call us on +350 222 55604 Or email us at enquiries.bank@moneycorp.com
- Helping you cross foreign exchange borders. *moneycorpbank will not charge you an ATM fee but you should always check that there is no additional charge applied by the ATM provider. The explorer multicurrency card is issued by MoneyCorp Bank Limited, pursuant to license by Mastercard International Inc. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Moneycorp Bank Limited is authorised and regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission(reference number FSC0062BNK) and is permitted to issue e-money. Moneycorp Bank Limited is a company registered in Gibraltar under company number 113151 with its registered office at 7/b King’s Yard Lane, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA.
MCB Advert.indd 1
08/08/2017 15:49:17
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
A ll about
An Olive press special 8-page pullout
Ahead ofNovember its much-anticipated 22nd - December 5th 2017 arrival on december 2, Jed Neill takes a look at what will be on offer from one of the Costa del Sol’s most informative events for expats
21
EXPERTS: Mike Kelly and Eric Knowles inspecting coins, jewellery and other family heirlooms at previous events
Let’s go expo! Costa del Sol’s most popular convention making huge comeback on December 2 and 3
A
n exciting new event is taking place at Fuengirola’s Hotel IPV Palace this December. The 50 Plus Expo has hundreds of professionals specialising in areas as broad as insurance, health, currency, exchange, property, tourism and much more. Eric Knowles, the face of the Antiques Roadshow is also on hand to give free evaluations on small items and collectables and larger items, including furniture, paintings and glassware. With other world class valuing experts on hand, expats are guaranteed to get the best price for their family heirlooms. If this isn’t enough then internationally renowned coin specialist Mike Kelly will be there to make sure even the smallest items get maximum attention. Previously known as The Over 50’s Show, it is returning to the Costa del Sol bigger and better than ever before. But it is not just valuations that are on offer, food stalls and cookery demonstrations will ensure expats are prepped and ready for one of the most important meals of the year. There will be yoga demos, modern dance lessons and a new feature of walking football demos, one of the fastest growing sports for the over-50s.
WANT TO GET RID OF GLASSES? BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY and benefit from our special offers! LASER OPERATION
Prk/Lasik (norm.890€)
490€/eye
CATARACT OPERATION
(norm.1790€)
1290€/eye
PRESBYOPIA OPERATION
(norm.2490€)
1950€/eye BUY A GIFT THAT MATTERS!
Gift voucher for an eye-examination or a luxurious ThermoFlo treatment!
PRICE IS RIGHT: 50 Plus Expo
With free health checks, spinal treatments and ear testing, everyone will be able to relax this festive season. The expo will run from December 2 to 3 and doors are open 11:30am to 5pm each day.
info@soleyes.es
www.soleyes.es
FUENGIROLA
C/Romeria del Rocario 6 29640, FUENGIROLA tel. (+34) 952 470 073
WE ARE MOVING SOON
Av/Alcalde Clemente Díaz Ruiz 3, FUENGIROLA
MARBELLA
AV/Rotary Internacional 34 29660, MARBELLA tel. (+34) 952 635 719
22 22
A ll about
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017 November 22nd - December 5th 2017
Art exhibition
T
HEY are some of Andalucia’s most gifted artists. Now their work will be showcased at the 50 Plus Expo, available either to buy or be admired as you walk round the exhibition. The Andalucian International Artists Art Group (AIA) was set up in 2004 to act as a collective space for burgeoning artists to come and present their work. Coming from all corners of Europe you can be sure that every quirky taste is catered for with a wide range of work from an abstract rose garden to a collage of James Joyce. All the artists work and live in Andalucia so expect sunny scenes that have come to capture the very essence of life on the Costa del Sol.
COLLAGE: Featuring one 20th century’s most formidabble literary figures is just one example of the work being shown
Are you aware that you may have to pay Spanish Death Duties? You may even have to pay UK Inheritance Tax. But did you know that you could pay both on the same assets? To find out how to avoid this tax pitfall register for our complimentary seminar, which focuses on the taxation benefits available to ex-pats and the St. James’s Place distinctive approach to investment management.
We are attending the 50 Plus Show on 2 & 3 December at the Hotel IPV Palace & Spa in Fuengirola. Come and find us on Stand 25.
Are you running the risk of paying tax twice?
The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances. To reserve your place or to request your complimentary guide to investment management, contact:
HILL & CO FINANCIAL ADVISERS LTD Best Financial Adviser 2016/17
PARTNERS IN MANAGING YOUR WEALTH
Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management
Tel: 0044 2920 263422 Mob: 0034 663612829 Email: hillandco@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.hillandcofa.co.uk
The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The title ‘Partner Practice’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. H2SJP27564 11/17
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
23
You’ll never walk alone
W
PACE MERCHANTS: Walking football is inclusive
ALKING football is fast becoming one of the fastest growing sports in the world, with 1,000 clubs registered in the UK and the FA now issuing an official rule book. It is football played without running and with minimal contact and tackling, making it an ideal sport for those with delicate legs. Teams are made up of between five to seven players and games last for 60 minutes so it is a great way for older people to meet new friends and with teams in Benalmadena, Elviria, and San Pedro it is quickly taking the Costa del Sol by storm. Manchester City were the first Premier League club to launch a walking football team and the game has won support from professionals including Harry Kane, Geoff Hurst, Alan Shearer and Fabrice Muamba. There are two tournaments, sponsored by MyGuideMarbella in the Finca Naundrup sports centre scheduled for 2018..
www.sanitasestepona.com
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
23
24 24
A ll about
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
YOGA: Being demonstrated to expats
Hotel IPV Palace
EXPO: Proves a hit on the Costa del Sol
2
3
3
3
1
3
2
2 2
32
2
50 Plus Expo - 2nd &
FUENGIROLA: The home of this year’s event
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
25
All under one roof Main floor plan for the two principal halls. (There will also be a number of stalls in adjoining areas) Stand 1 DE VERE SPAIN Stand 2 SONTEC HEARING Stand 3 SANITAS Stand 4 ALMERIA ANGELS Stand 5 SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Stand 6 ASSSA INSURANCE Stands 7/8 ABACUS FINANCIAL Stand 10 ALC INSURANCE Stand 12 PHOENICIAN EXPORTS Stand 13 CARE AT HOME Stand 14 PLOT 29 Stand 15 SOL EYE CARE
ace
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
23 22 2
3
Stand 16 CLINICA SANDALF Stand 17 IBEX INSURANCE/GOLDEN LEAVES Stands 18/19 BODYWORKS Stands 20/21 LIBERTY SEGUROS Stand 22 HOTEL ALGARVE Stand 23 ALGARVE SENIOR CARE Stand 24 AVALON Stand 25 HILL AND COMPANY FINANCIAL Stand 26 FRANCISCO CAMERO Stands 27/28 MEDICAL DISTRIBUTORS Stand 29 CROOKE DENTAL Stands 30/31 BLACKTOWER FINANCIAL
4
21 20
2
2
2
3
25
2
2
33
2
3
19 18
2
2
2
2
24
2
25
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
26
3
2
2
2
28
34
35
2
2
15 14
2
2
3
27
3rd December, 2017
17 16
2
2
2
2
29
2
2
2
2
Clínica SANDALF is a private outpatient medical clinic for orthopaedic surgery, trauma surgery, ophthalmology, urology, physiotherapy, osteopathy, massage therapy and counselling. All our health professionals have completed their specialist medical training in Germany or the United Kingdom and are fluent in English.
2
30 31
2
we keep you going
2
2
2
36 2
46
38
3
3
2
3
3
45
3
44
2
2
37
CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON Dr. Alf Neuhaus
47
48
2
50
49
2
3
3
3
3
43
42
2
39
3
40
2
41 2
Eric Knowles Antique valuations, Mike Kelly coin, stamp and banknote valuations, crafts etc.
OPHTHALMOLOGIST Dr. Mariano Salvatierra PHYSIOTHERAPISTS David Peromingo Tamara Abramovich
COUNSELLING/ PSYCHOTHERAPY Christie Nicholas OSTEOPATH Christie Nicholas
www.clinicasandalf.com
C/Mercurio 75, 29631 Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena tel: (+34) 952 57 77 66 email:info@clinicasandalf.com
26 26
A ll about
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017 November 22nd - December 5th 2017
Mr Knowles it all From car-boot sales to the Australian outback, Eric Knowles has seen it all and is bringing his wealth of experience to the Costa del Sol, writes Jed Neill
H
E is a jack-of-all-trades and a master of most, able to put a price on history. With a career spanning three decades, Eric Knowles understands what objects make money. His indomitable talent, normally charged by the hour, will be available for free at the upcoming 50 Plus Expo at Fuengirola’s Hotel IPV Palace. The Lancastrian first came to Spain in 1980 to Barcelona for a camping holiday and has been coming back ever since to Mallorca as a family favourite for a holiday. “I like the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range. We tend to hover between Pollenca and Alcudia,” said Knowles. “It’s got real character, we’ve been going to the same restaurant for 20 years. “When I come here I like to do a little bit of aerobic arm lifting with some good Rioja.” This is not Knowles’ first rodeo and is the face of reason on the popular BBC show The Antiques Roadshow as well as appearing on Call My Bluff,
20th Century Roadshow and Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is. The father-of-two joined London auction house Bonhams in 1976 working as a porter, gradually rising through the ranks, becoming a director 10 years later. He gained fame as a ceramic spe-
cialist on The Antiques Roadshow before making in-roads on a string of TV shows. One of his most memorable finds was back in 2008 when a woman brought along a small glass vase she had purchased at a car boot sale for £1. It turned out to be an exceptionally rare
piece by Rene Lalique (Knowles speciality) valued at £25,000. His most recent endeavour was in January this year where he spent four weeks in Australia making a TV program called Clash of the Collectibles. He says: “You have to plough through an awful lot of rubble to find that golden nugget.” Working for Bonhams he was frequently posted in the Marbella office and was commissioned to write numerous articles for the Daily Mail and a few antique magazines. And with his brother living in La Herradura, near Nerja he’d ‘love the opportunity to do more’ down here. When he does shows like the expo he says it mainly consists of waiting for people to form a queue and oneby-one emptying their belongings hoping Knowles’ eagle eyes will find something valuable. “Most of things we get are family heirlooms, items people have picked up along the way. “I never know what’s going to turn up.” At a previous 50 Plus Expo event in
Dublin, Knowles discovered a Faberge enamel cigarette box which the owner had been using as a casual cigarette holder. He says: “Usually it is the one thing they don’t suspect that has value.” Yet, it is not just value for money Knowles offers but also insight into an ever-changing market. “Now Georgian furniture is at a bargain basement price and people are more interested in post-war design. Today is all about design and effect,” continues Knowles. Although he does acknowledge his limitations saying he is proficient in everything except the printed word so ‘it’s probably best to leave your books at home’. Sadly, in 2015 tragedy struck when his son Seb Knowles was killed in a road accident on the M40 after his Mercedes collided with a lorry. Both Knowles and his son were supporters of Wycombe Wanderers but he says he is ‘forever an optimist’. “And it is always a bonus to find myself travelling to a sunny place. I miss the sun”.
Care for Me – Marbella ...NEW SERVICES As well as care at home and nursing services we now provide the following exclusive services: • Blood tests at home • Benefits: convenient, no driving to the clinic/ hospital after fasting, hassle free, results sent directly to your doctor. • Medical assistance insurance – we escort clients and translate between you and your medical professionals. • Benefits: For a flat monthly fee you can avail of the free Spanish Healthcare, no need for private medical insurance
COME VISIT US at the 50s PLUS EXPO email: nursemanager@careforme.es tel: 952 636 900 tel: 682 870 120 www.careforme.es
Saturday 2 - Sunday 3 December 2017 in the IPV Palace Hotel Fuengirola
Where we will be offering FREE Health Checks
www.theolivepress.es
OUR PREMIUM HOME INSURANCE HAS EVERYTHING. IT EVEN HAS A 24HR EMERGENCY PLUMBER WHEN YOU NEED IT.
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
FROM JUST
952 147 834 SMALL PRICE. BIG ON
98
€
DOES YOURS?
TM
ON
S E R V I C E.
* O ff e r v a l i d f o r n e w c u s t o m e r s o n l y . E n d s 3 1 / 1 2 / 1 7 . N o t v a l i d f o r r e n e w a l s . S u b j e c t t o c o m p a n y u n d e r w r i t i n g r e g u l a t i o n s .
27
28
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
The hugely popular lifestyle event returns to the Coast with all its regular features... plus many new attractions
Costa del Sol
FREE antique valuations with Eric Knowles, BBC Antiques Roadshow
FREE valuations of coins, stamps and banknotes from leading expert Mike Kelly
Golf tips and putting competitions from PGA pro Alan Howard Green
Costa del Sol
Yoga lessons and demos
Get quilting! Tuition and groups to join
Join a walking football team. Info & demos from Walking Football Spain
Wealth management, pensions and insurance advice from leading experts
Free blood glucose & blood pressure testing from Diabetic Support Group
Music and dance lessons each day from 2True (AKA Mr. Maph & Simone Lisa) and Colin Gausden
Plus Crafts, Christmas Gifts, Fashion, Jewellery and much more!
Hotel IPV Palace and Spa, Fuengirola Sat 2nd & Sun 3rd Dec, 2017 Open: 11am to 5pm each day
The Hotel IPV Palace & Spa fronts the A7 at Km 207 next to Fuengirola (Sohall) Castle
WIN a 2 night stay for 2 people at Holiday Inn Algarve & Hotel Carvoeiro!
The 50 plus Expo Costa Del Sol, in association with Holiday Inn Algarve & Hotel Carvoeiro, are offering visitors to this years event the opportunity to win a 2 night stay for 2 people in B&B for 1 winner, drawn at random. Just answer the question & fill out the form below. The organisers will contact the lucky winner which will be picked out by Holiday Inn Algarve & Hotel Carvoeiro on Sun, 3rd of December at 4 pm.
In which beach is the Holiday Inn Algarve located? Answer: _____________________________________
ADMISSION
FREE
For info, email info@slp.ie or ring 666 782 642 • seniortimes.ie
YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE OVER 50 – EVERYONE WELCOME!
Name: ______________________________________ Email: ______________________________________ Courtesy of
Telephone: ___________________________________ Tick if you don’t wish to receive correspondence from SL Promotions Ltd.
www.theolivepress.es Property
November 22nd -2017 December 5th 2017 November
ESTEPONA
Coming through!
XXIX 29 29
Quality street
NEW-BUILD, FRONT-LINE, FOUR-BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR SALE, WITH SEA VIEWS AND SWIMMING POOL, ESTEPONA CENTRE TMNA11236 Estepona Bedrooms: 4 Built: 193 m2 · Terrace: 33 m2 1.050.000 €
Beware Marbella, for Estepona is the new hotspot on the Costa del Sol, writes leading Estepona agent Adam Neale from Terra Meridiana
F
BELL-TOWER: Adds dynamism to the sky line
POTTED: Streets adorn Estepona
OR decades Estepona lived in He has overseen many renovation the shadow of its rich, glamor- works and the adorning of the historic ous neighbour Marbella, but now town centre with coloured flowerpots things are changing. and the painting of large murals on Marbella is still very much in fashion, apartment buildings. yet in recent years Estepona has made This together with the wave of modern, a leap from a charming seaside town to high quality developments has raised the a vibrant, attractive spot at the heart of profile and attraction of Estepona, parthe Golden Triangle. ticularly the town centre, where properties This is the region including Marbella, are selling fast and prices have shown a Benahavis and Estepona – and in- healthy rise, thus indicating the growing creasingly it is this zone and not just demand for property here. Marbella that is the reference when Along with this comes a growth in amepeople think about the privileged life- nities both public and private, with stylstyle that this southern region of Spain ish eateries, boutiques and beach clubs offers. joining a new theatre, hospital and proThe glamour and status appeal that jected downtown shopping area. was once only reserved for the area Estepona is a place on the rise, and not between Puerto Banús just in the beachside and Marbella East has and surrounding areas. thus extended to a widOur office has been Demand for er region, with the New based in the old town Golden Mile the main of Estepona since homes, hotels focus of growth. 2004 and since 2012 It is here that much and commercial we’ve seen increasing of the recent quality demand for properties projects is very property development in the historic centre, on the Costa del Sol is including those that healthy concentrated, with atoffer scope for renovatractive modern gated tion. communities, apartDemand for homes, ment complexes and also contempo- land, hotel projects and commercial rary semi-detached homes taking the premises is very healthy, and budgets entire region west of Marbella further have grown too. upmarket. Indeed, many discerning Have a look at these five excellent placbuyers no longer restrict their search to es on offer this issue and get in touch, Marbella and its immediate surround- as we have many many more for sale at ings, but also look for homes to buy in Terra Meridiana. the area between San Pedro de Alcán- Estepona is rapidly transforming itself tara and Estepona. into a true hotspot, and while prices The process has been spurred on by are rising there is still great value to be the greater availability of land here and had here and much potential for future the efficiency of the Estepona town hall growth amid continued improvements in processing project applications. and growing demand. But the increasing desirability of Este- It seems that from here on out Estepopona among investors and homebuy- na is very much the place to be. ers alike is also very much down to the impressive beautification the town has Visit www.terrameridiana.com for enjoyed under mayor José María Gar- more information on town or to cía Urbano. contact Adam Neale
FANTASTIC TOP FLOOR TOWNHOUSE FOR SALE IN OLD TOWN ESTEPONA TMRT1159 Estepona Centro, Estepona Bedrooms: 2 · Bathrooms: 1 Built: 65 m2 137.000 €
PROPERTY FOR SALE IN THE OLD TOWN CENTRE OF ESTEPONA, WITH PATIO AND POSIBILITY TO BUILD EXTRA LIVING SPACE. TMRT11313 Estepona Centro, Estepona Bedrooms: 3 · Bathrooms: 1 Built: 116 m2 · Plot: 103 m2 175.000 €
TOWNHOUSE IN THE CENTRE OF TOWN WITH PRIVATE UNDERGROUND PARKING WITHIN A GATED COMPLEX TMRT11311 Estepona Centro, Estepona Bedrooms: 2 · Bathrooms: 2 Built: 83 m2 · Terrace: 14 m2 230.000 €
LARGE PLOT IN PRIME LOCATION OF TOWN CENTRE ONLY 100M FROM THE BEACH IDEAL FOR HOTEL TMC1101 Estepona Centro, Estepona Plot: 600 m2 1.700.000 €
XXX 30
www.theolivepress.es Property
November 22nd - 2017 December 5th 2017 November
ON TOP: The palace sits high above Ibiza with amazing views
it of coin
STUNNING: Rooftop pool and (below) cave pool
Palace in Spain is first in world you can buy with cryptocurrency Bitcoin
A
T the highest point of Ibiza’s skyline stands the medieval Palacio Bardaji, built in 1742. With just under a square kilometre of floor space, which includes a near quarter kilometre of accessible rooftop, it can all be yours for 1850 bitcoin. How much that actually is in euros changes everyday, but at time of press, around €12 million. The Palacio Bardaji has gone through a rigorous yet protective renovation to bring it into the modern day, following strict guidelines from UNESCO (it is in a world heritage site, Ibiza’s Dalt Villa).
Luxury
It follows other luxury Bitcoin sales, such as Dubai Science Park which is selling units for Bitcoin and a luxurious London townhouse is also selling for Bitcoin this year. In total, the Ibiza palace has 921 square meters of floor space, and 220 square meters of land. It comes complete with six bedrooms, five bathrooms and a private garage among its three stories. The property also includes a separate, fully appointed apartment, as well as staff accommodation. Curro Quevedo Bueno of Zooo, the real estate agency responsible for the sale, says the owner sees Bitcoin as ‘a big thing in the near future’. “That led to the decision to become part of this new financial world. “We are very aware that doing the transaction this way will definitely not make things easier, as we still have to figure out a way to make this connection between this new world and the old one.”
ORIGINAL:
MODERN: Gold, white and spacious interiors
The interior decor is stylish and different
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
Villas & Fincas | Casares Property Agent Ctra. de Casares s/n, 29690 Casares Malaga SPAIN Phone: + 34 952 895 139 Mobile: +34 636 546 796 E-mail: info@villasfincas.com
Call us now to list your property, we have clients waiting for Luxury Country Properties, Vineyards, Quality Equestrians and Hunting Estates.
GAUCIN – 1.650.000 € Ref. Nr. 186-2749P COUNTRY VILLA NEAR CASARES AND GAUCIN WITH PANORAMICAL VIEWS, IDEAL FOR HORSES
Ref. Nr. 186-00633P CASARES –595.000 € COUNTRY VILLA IN CASARES WIT STUNNING SEA AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Bedrooms: m² Built: Garden: Garage:
Bedrooms: m² Built: Garden: m² Terrace:
5 499m² Private Private
Bathrooms: m² Plot: Pool: m² Terrace:
5 25.000 Private 123
4 246m² Yes 35
Bathrooms: 3 m² Plot: 10.050 Pool: Yes
Ref. Nr. 186-00259P
Ref. Nr. 186-00085P GAUCIN – 1.495.000 € COUNTRY VILLA NEAR GAUCIN WITH VIEWS TO AFRICA Bedrooms: m² Built: Garden: Garage:
5 924m² Private Private
Bathrooms: 6 Plot: 27 Ha Pool: Private
www.villasfincas.com
RONDA – 1.250.000 € LUXURY MODERN COUNTRY HOUSE, CORTIJO FOR SALE, RONDA CASARES Bedrooms: –5 675.000 € Bathrooms: 5 OLD OLIVE 573m² MILL NEARm²CASARES m² Built: Plot: 25.000 Garden: Bedrooms: Garage: m² Built:
Private 4 Carport 325m²
Garden: Garage:
Private Private
Pool: Bathrooms: m² Plot: Pool:
FOLLOW US ON:
Private 2 12.130 Private
Ref. Nr. 186-00234P
31
XXXII 32
Property
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - 2017 December 5th 2017 November
In a new column on issues facing urbanisations, specialist Michelle van Gaalen explains whether pools need a lifeguard or not
Need to splash on a lifeguard? QUESTION: Could you please explain when community pools need the attendance of a lifeguard, and if all pools need to be enclosed with a fence? ANSWER: Only pools of communities of more than 20 properties and with a size of more than 200 m2 of surface need a lifeguard. When not in attendance the pool has to be closed and must be fenced off. In smaller pools of less than 200 m2, the pool must only be fenced when the pool is closed (out of season) or the water is not suitable for swimming (i.e. not enough chlorine, too much chlorine, too high PH, etc.). The Junta law which governs swimming pools of this size, states that you must be able to enclose the pool area to stop its use in case the pool is closed, empty, or water is not suitable for swimming. If the pool is open all year round and the
water is fine then COMMUNITY no fence is CORNER required, but you must be able to stop access when there is a chemical problem with the water. QUESTION: We live in an urbanisation in Mijas Costa. Why do we have to pay community fees to an urbanisation when we already pay our IBI rates to the Town Hall? Are we not paying double? ANSWER: This has been an issue historically. In the past, urbanisations were getting almost no service from the Town Hall and were paying higher rates than properties in the city areas, such as Mijas Pueblo. When the town council changed from PSOE to the PP (from 2011 to 2015), a lot of improve-
ments took place. The Town Hall gradually took over the delivery of refuse containers, built platforms for the recycling bins, improved the collection frequency and started a program of cleaning of the bins. It also continued to take over the electricity supply of urbanization lighting and the maintenance of the lamp posts. It also started to asphalt a number of key roads within the urbanisations. The mayor back then Angel Nozal also started to help them clean their green areas and the surrounding campo land and to provide fire breaks. The next step was to take over the collection of garden refuse, but the PP was voted out. The bottom line is, urbanizations should receive more service for the rates they pay and this in turn should result in lower community fees. Michelle van Gaalen is an administrator of Communities and the wife of ex mayor of Mijas Angel Nozal (PP). Email your questions to newsdesk@theolivepress.
es
MORTGAGE THINK TANK by mortgage broker Tancrede de Pola
Beware
Spain’s economy is growing fast and with it its property market, but borrowers must be cautious
S
PAIN’S GDP has been one of the fastest growing in the eurozone and its property market is at its strongest since the 2008 crisis. The economy will grow by 3% this year while unemployment has fallen 11% since 2013. And despite the ongoing Catalunya crisis giving cause for concern, its impact has been lessened by prime minister Mariano Rajoy acting quickly to dissolve the region’s government and calling snap regional elections for December 21, meaning uncertainty isn’t expected to last long. All in all, it’s still a very good time to invest, but borrowers need to keep their eyes open. With an array of banks battling to offer the most attractive mortgage rates, it’s easy to get carried away. That is where a broker becomes essential: someone in your corner to highlight any hidden fees or compulsory add-ons tucked away in the small print and to ensure you get the best possible mortgage rate to suit your needs. One of the biggest pitfalls can be ‘trap-related products’ that often get hidden in the small print. These additional products get attached to your mortgage and usually include insurance policies. It is important to know exactly what is attached to your mortgage. What may seem
like a great rate can be soured by expensive – and sometimes unnecessary – insurance packages. Using a broker will save both time and money as they will be looking out for these hidden add-ons and will always have ways to lessen their impact. The Finance Bureau has its own insurance arm and can therefore guarantee you the best deal not only on mortgage rates but also on insurance policies; be it home, life, health or building cover. And while the vast majority of banks specify the fees and commissions they charge, not all of these costs are always declared. Many financial institutions refrain from publishing less known fees such as early redemption charges. These are, however, regulated by law, and may not exceed 0.50% for the first five years and 0.25% from the sixth. It is advisable to ask the bank to specify all commissions and how many there are before signing the contract. This will spare you unwanted surprises down the road. But the best way to ensure a good mortgage that does not hide anything in the fine print is to solicit the help of a mortgage broker. When it comes to picking a mortgage, you may only get one shot as it is virtually impossible and, at the very least, expensive, to reverse a decision that goes against you.
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
www.theolivepress.es Property
November 22nd -2017 December 5th 2017 November
III 33 33
34
www.theolivepress.es
XXXIV
Property
November 22nd - 2017 December 5th 2017 November
34
Property of the Week
Oh my Gaudi!
EXQUISITE: Casa Vicens inside and out
First home built by the Spanish icon has Andalucian influences
T ARABIC: Inside spaces have Moorish influences
HE first house designed by maestro Antoni Gaudi has opened to the public for the first time. The Casa Vicens has gone through a restoration project over the last two-and-a-half years and has been kept to its original design. Gaudí, the master of modernism and creator of the iconic Sagrada Familia, had been qualified only five years as an architect when he was hired in 1883 by a tile manufacturer, Don Manuel Vicens Montaner, to design a summer house in Gràcia, then a suburb of Barcelona. Gràcia has since been swallowed by the city, and to the visitor, happening upon the house in its narrow street, among offices and apartment blocks, the Casa Vicens comes as a delightful surprise: a faux Moorish palace that might have dropped in on a magic carpet. It’s full of built-in furniture, murals of herons and cranes, and spaces between beams filled with paper-mache carvings of cherries of leaves. And there is a clear Andalucia influence inside the Arabian smoking room, where Gaudi incorporates a polychrome pastiche of the stalactite ceilings of the Alhambra in Granada – made of moulded cardboard. Fans will have to be lucky when visiting the new must-see, as only 500 people are allowed inside each day.
DETAIL: Exterior features are unusual
Gibraltar game-changer
RIGHT in the heart of Gibraltar a new residential development offers some of the best views in the Iberian Peninsula. On a clear day, residents walking on Arengos Gardens rooftop terrace will be able to see Tangiers and the African coastline. If you tire of that then there is always the pool to relax in. Nestled in a cul-de-sac at the top of Gibraltar’s Upper Town it is the ultimate location for those looking for a bit of peace and comfort while still being a short walk away from the town centre. Inside, the apartments are filled to the brim with high-tech amenities such as windows that open at the touch of a button and every apartment has a built-in wardrobe. On top of this, the doors leading out onto the balconies are polished aluminium creating a seamless transition between the outside world and inside luxury. All kitchens are fitted with a high gloss finished cabinetry with built in Bosch appliances. With a range of different rooms sizes, from threebedroom penthouses, to one-bedroom studios you can be sure every preference is catered for. Even so every square inch is priced at affordability with a medium range three-bedroom terraced apartment costing £565,750, and a two-bedroom apartment with a balcony with views over the territory of Gibraltar will set you back £331,857. And the unparalled state-of-the-art ground floor gymnasium means getting fit has never been
easier. What’s more the building is very environmentally friendly with solar panels on the roof, plants running down the entire external wall and each apartment has its own heating and cooling system. And if worried about parking, don’t be. Every apartment has private parking and there are numerous charging points for electric cars. But if you’re interested you better hurry, half of the 62 apartments have already been sold. This flurry of interest is rising fast and with the first bricks in place by January, the time is now to visit the piggy bank. The build is expected to be completed by November 2018 and who knows, there may even be a bottle of bubbly for those hoping to catch the last summer rays.
www.theolivepress.es
November 22nd - December 5th 2017
35
Luxury apartments in the heart of Gibraltar
Arengos Gardens is a unique and unparalleled Development not seen inside the City Walls of Gibraltar before. Residents will have direct access to the Upper Nature Reserve via the regenerated Old Victorian ‘Arengo’s Palace’ Gardens which have lain untouched since the decline of the ‘Arengo’s Palace’ last century. One bedroom apartments of 45.00m2 from £229,875 including 28m2 patio and parking Two bedroom apartments of 76.00m2 from £331,875 including balcony, store room and parking Three bedroom apartments of 103.50m2 from £427,700 including balcony, store room and parking Larger apartments CAT 2 applicable
Swimming Pools, Rooftop Sundeck, Gardens, Gymnasium, Parking, Laundry Room
www.arengosgardens.com Mulberry Real Estate are exclusive agents for Arengos Gardens – tel: (+350) 200 42737 Cornwall’s Ln, Gibraltar GX11 1AA www.mulberry-realestate.com
36 36
www.theolivepress.es
business
November 22nd - December 5th 2017 November 8th - November 21st 2017
New apartments and townhouses
Spain New quality homes in Spain since 1958 Buy directly from the developer Our Ourcurrent currentprojects: projects:
COSTA DEL SOL
Marbella, San Pedro de Alcantara, Benahavis, La Mairena & La Cala Golf / Mijas Mallorca - Ibiza (Camp de Mar, Nova Santa Ponsa, Cala Vinyes, Cala Murada & Colonia Sant Pere. Cala Gracio / Ibiza. Costa Blanca (Punta Prima / Torrevieja, Javea & Vilajoyosa, Elche).
Call us now: 900 130 044 (Freephone Spain) / +34 971 706 972 ww w.taylorwimpeyspain.com