No 612
Tel: 96 673 0057
Monday 4th April 2016
Tel: 676 820 588
Issue 323
SPANISH PM SAYS IT'S TIME TO SCRAP THE SIESTA The Prime Minister of Spain Mariano Rajoy has announced his intention to revolutionize the way Spanish businesses work by changing the working hours to fall in line with other European countries.
As many parents of children also work split shifts the knock on effects of this antiquated practice trickle down to children who end up eating later and staying up later and are therefore tired the next day and perform poorly in school.
force would be more productive and businesses could be more competitive and work better with other European countries. Spain should not shut down from 2 pm to 4.30 pm every day, this is no longer conducive to economic growth.”
In addition to the change in working hours, which would effectively say goodbye to the “siesta”, the Spanish PM will push forward a new policy to change the Spanish Time Zone to Greenwich meantime to coincide with the UK and Portugal.
If more people finished work at 6pm, the Spanish work
Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy also wants to increase paternity leave time by 10 days for disabled fathers or fathers of disabled children and also fathers of larger families (3 or more children).
Prime Minister Rajoy added “ The Spanish siesta was introduced when the majority of people worked in the agricultural industry and it was simply too hot to work during the heat of the day but times have changed since then and many people who work split shifts do not use this time for naps but instead find themselves doing other things which ultimately leads to a less productive work force.
The Vice Secretary for the PP party, Javier Maroto, explained that these changes would be implemented in the next term should the PP party manage to form a government. Changing the working hours would require pacts between all the political parties and social groups and would not apply to those working in the public service sector or to companies whose businesses require around the clock shift work.
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BUNGEE JUMPING, ZIPLINE AND MORE DARE DEVIL FUN
Main Office and Classified Adverts call Fay 676 820 588 (Mon-Fri 10am - 1.30pm) Los Alcázares to Pilar de la Horadada call David 658 058 883 Mazarrón to Los Urrutias inc. Cartagena call Fay 676 820 588 (10am-5pm) Empresas Españolas Fay 676 820 588 (10am-5pm) E-mail Contact ACCOUNTS: admin@informernews.org CLASSIFIEDS: classified@informernews.org LETTERS TO ED: editor@informernews.org ARTWORK: graphics@informernews.org
If you are a bit of a dare devil and like to live on the edge, then come along to the Puente del Estacio on the La Manga Strip and enjoy the III Estacio Extreme event which takes place on April 9th. The Puente del Estacio is the main bridge crossing the water inlet between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean and is on course to become a new tourist attraction as the council continue forward with plans to open it to the public. However, once a year it also becomes the focal point for those who find excitement in active sports and hosts the Estacio Extreme event, organised by the Concejalia de Juventud of San Javier. From 10am until 2pm Bungee jumping is on offer, definitely not for the faint hearted and then crossing over the canal on a zipline. A rock o drome wall is also in place for those who fancy a bit of “safe” rock climbing. All the activities are free
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For Costa Blanca or Costa Almeria editions contact Telephone 966 730 057 E-mail office@theleader.info Website www.theleader.info Head Office Edificio Centro Zenia 2 1a Planta Avda. de Villa Martin s/n Urb La Zenia 03189 Orihuela Costa, Alicante The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion. We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. NO PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.
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CHICKENPOX VACCINATIONS The Murcian Health service has spent 354,900â‚Ź buying 17,500 doses of a vaccine which allegedly reduces the risk of children getting chicken pox. The vaccinations are for children born after January 1st 2015 and for women of childbearing age who have not had the disease, health professionals and pre-
adolescents who have not yet been vaccinated. The vaccination will require a further booster for children when they are 4 years old. This latest vaccination is not obligatory and many mothers are questioning the need for another vaccination especially for an illness that is relatively harmless.
GARDEN GATE THIEF ARRESTED IN LOS BELONES A 41 year old man has been arrested by the Guardia Civil in connection with at least 20 thefts from holiday homes in the quiet coastal towns of Mar de Cristal, Islas Menores, Los Nietos, Estrella del Mar,Los Urrutias and Punta Brava after having been caught in possession of missing garden gates. The investigation began when various property owners reported that garden gates, window frames and other items made out of aluminum had been stolen from their
properties, also filing claims for damages made during the thefts. The discoveries were made when holiday homeowners returned to their properties over the Easter holidays. This prolific metal thief from Los Belones was arrested when he was found to be driving a van packed full of various lengths of aluminum bars which had been cut from gates and window frames. Apparently the metal thief then sold the metal on to scrap merchants.
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PAYERS FORCED TO CONTINUE TO FOOT
“CORVERA”
Corvera International Airport is now in the hands of the regional government following the backing of the High Court which issued the repossession order last Wednesday, and according to Francisco Bernabé, the Minister for Development and Infrastructures, the facilities are in good condition but they are in “No rush” to open the airport.
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According to Minister Francisco Bernabé “ I am not going to speculate and announce an opening date because until a new concessionary company is secured and the agreements are adequate, there is no point. These things take time and extreme caution must be exercised to ensure the right candidate for the job is chosen.” Despite the lack of urgency it is hoped that the contract for managing the new International airport will be awarded before the end of this year. Whilst the wait is continuing the bill for the upkeep and maintenance of the airport until the end of 2016 will once again fall on the taxpayer. These costs have been estimated at 425,000€. These maintenance costs come on top of the requirement to repay 22,000€ per day of the loan of 182 million€ which they acted as a guarantor for the previous management company Aeromur.
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ALL BIKERS!
You are all invited to join the 21st annual Ruta Mototuristica por la vida on April 17th. This year the route is from Murcia to the Puerto de Mazarrón and all sizes and styles of motorbikes are welcome. Each year the Murcia Region hosts a largescale biker’s ride out called the Ruta Motociclista por la Vida. The route originally began as a small-scale ride-out to pay homage to a youngster who lost his life through drug abuse and to encourage young people to become involved in different types of activities which lead to a healthier, happier lifestyle, such as joining a biker’s group and enjoying trips out with friends. This year the organisers are hoping to attract 4,500 participants to the event. The route begins in Murcia, and concludes in a selected town, which this year is Mazarrón, picking up yet more riders enroute as it winds its way through the region. Participation is 10€ and includes a goodie bag as well as refreshments and food enroute and a big party with music and prize draws at the end of the route.
The morning begins at the Recinto Ferial in Murcia alongside the River Segura. This is next to the Auditorio Victor Villegas. Between 8am and 10pm anyone who has not registered can do so on the day. There are many motorbike sales and concessionaries where it is possible to preregister, which helps the organisers work out numbers and print enough t-shirts as everyone gets a t-shirt as part of their goodie bag. From here riders head to the main roundabout in front of the town hall for the official send-off, before heading to La Raya and then Alcantarilla where a biker’s breakfast is served. After this it’s off to Sangonera La Seca, Alhama de Murcia and then Totana, where there is a ceremony in homage to all bikers. Then it’s off to El Paretón, passing by the Camposol Urbanisation, Mazarrón town, a quick stop-off by the erosions in Bolnuevo and concluding in the Puerto de Mazarrón where lunch will be served on the Paseo Rihuete, alongside the Petanca club followed by music, prize draws, display of aero-modelling and a sociable gathering just before 2pm.
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The Bowen Technique - Treatment with Body Harmony The Bowen Technique was pioneered by Thomas Bowen, born in Geelong, Australia. After working in miscellaneous labouring jobs as a young man, he developed a great interest in massage and body work and spent time observing football trainers and others involved with sports. By the time he was in his early 40´s, this gifted man had established a full time practice in remedial therapy using the technique he developed. It is amazing at the effectiveness of this simple and gentle “hands-on” therapy. The Bowen Technique is suitable for everyone, from the tiniest of babies, to athletes and frailest of adults. It looks at restoring balance to the body by a series of very gentle rolling type moves made with the therapist´s fingers and thumbs over precise areas of the body. A unique feature of the Bowen Treatment is that after a series of set moves, the therapist leaves the room for a couple of minutes. This prompts the body to reset, repair and rebalance itself. The Bowen Technique does not rely on hard pressure, it is a very light touch therapy and there is no twisting, bending or awkward repositioning of the client during the treatment. It can be performed through light clothing. A key element of the Bowen Technique so that we work holistically and do not treat a specific condition but look at the person as a whole. WHAT CAN BOWEN SAFELY TREAT. Common presenting problems include back and neck pain, knee problems, sports injuries, RSI, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and respiratory problems. Conditions such as chronic fatigue, hayfever, headache, kidney problems and problems requiring lymphatic
not receiving other physical therapies whilst being treated with the Bowen Technique. If tou feel that the BOWEN TECHNIQUE is actually what you need right now and would like further info or to book an approintment, then please contact Christine Quinlan at BODY HARMONY. The telephone number is 966 795 103. Email address is...bodyharmony@tinyworld.co.uk..and website is..bodyharmonytherapies.co.uk. BODY HARMONY IS BASED IN LA MARINA drainage have responded favourably to Bowen Technique. Some people use the Bowen Technique as a means of stress management and health maintenance, seeing their therapists regularly 2-4 times a year. The Bowen Technique also addresses many other conditions and it is regarded as safe and effective for people of all ages. THE ACTUAL BOWEN TREATMENT With Bowen Technique, I am happy to work either directly onto skin or through light clothing. The first session will consist of a consultation during which I take notes about you, your lifestyle, conduct any assessments required and then carry out the Bowen Therapy. Treatments are normally about an hour. Every person is unique and therefore treatments and times are tailored to the individual. An initial course of three treatments is recommended to see how the client responds to treatment, usually at weekly intervals. Some clients will experience instant pain relief, whereas with others the body may respond over the next few days, but normally even chronic conditions will see relief with an initial set of three treatments. It is recommended that clients are
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‘Twitters from the Atlantic’ Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper. He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands.
THE BOOZE CRUISE Over the last two years there has been a worrying increase in the number of passengers, using various airlines, creating a major disturbance on planes flying to the Canary Islands, as well as on other routes to Spain’s sunshine holiday destinations. The most common issue is excessive consumption of alcohol before and during the flight, leading to a number of major incidents. In some cases, offending passengers have had to be restrained during the flight, whilst others have forced pilots to seek a premature landing at another airport, involving delays, inconvenience, distress and increased expenses for the airline and other passengers. Neither is this an entirely British condition, since I am also aware of several Scandinavian airlines that have had similar problems in recent months. There are now pleasing signs that some airlines are toughening up on their policy towards offending passengers, yet the issue seems to be getting worse. In most cases, these passengers are arrested, fined and often banned from flying on commercial airlines for a number of years. This is to be welcomed, but the penalties are currently clearly not high enough, and I remain unconvinced that the problem is being dealt with effectively and aggressively at source. Flying is not a pleasurable experience for most people, and many holidaymakers like to have an alcoholic drink to help them relax before they take to the skies. Flights can also be incredibly boring, unless engrossed in a good book, watching a thrilling film on a personal tablet, or able to sleep for a few hours. On-board snacks and drinks do help to relieve some of the boredom. The problem appears to be that
some of the cheaper carriers are so desperate to promote their sales of booze and food on board to increase their profit margins, but forget that this actually affects passengers in a way that could create devastating circumstances for the entire flight. I recall a flight that I took from the UK to Gran Canaria some months ago with a low cost airline; it was an experience that I will never forget, and for all the wrong reasons. The troubles began as soon as a group of wildly excited young men boarded the flight, clearly intoxicated and in the party mood at ten o’clock in the morning. Whether they were intoxicated with booze or drugs, I cannot be certain, but it did not take an expert to recognise that these passengers should never have been allowed to board the plane. The problems were compounded by the airline’s trolley service, which continually plied its trade up and down the aisles every 30 minutes or so on the four-hour flight. The group of young men were sold beers and spirits in abundance leading to even more riotous, noisy and foul mouthed behaviour. Instead of refusing them more alcohol, they were encouraged to drink more, and I lost count of the number of fifty-pound notes that changed hands on the flight. This group of young men were clearly good customers and would no doubt considerably boost the airline’s profit and the cabin crew’s commissions. Meanwhile, myself and other passengers were suffering from the actions of this group of thoughtless partygoers. As well as noisy, foul mouthed, riotous behaviour, we were sprayed and showered with the remaining dregs inside cans of beers, gins and tonics, although the cabin crew were kind enough to offer us moist tissues to mop ourselves with.
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By Bar rie Mahoney Finally, one member of the group vomited, partly into a paper bag, with the remainder hitting a passenger seated in the next aisle. We all had to endue the foul stench for the remainder of the journey. As well as passengers taking greater responsibility for themselves and their own behaviour, airlines and airports clearly need to monitor those attempting to board aircraft in an intoxicated state. As well as enhanced security measures, airlines and airports should adopt a more responsible approach to sales of alcohol on flights. I also question whether it is really necessary to serve alcohol in airports and on aircraft anyway, other than to boost profits? I guess that is my answer; without selling alcohol, ticket prices would rise. After my experience, this is certainly my preferred option. If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his book, ‘Island in the Sun’ (ISBN: 9780992767181). Available in paperback, as well as Kindle. © Barrie Mahoney
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HOW TO NEGOTIATE ROUNDABOUTS If you are unsure about the correct way to negotiate roundabouts, here are some simple rules to help you enter and exit roundabouts safely and in the right lane.
APPROACHING ROUNDABOUTS It’s important to remember to give way to traffic already on the roundabout. If the roundabout is outside urban areas of towns or cities, keep right. If the roundabout is in a built-up area inside a town or city and the lanes are clearly marked, you should use the lane that best corresponds to the exit you need to take.
LEAVING ROUNDABOUTS This causes the most confusion amongst drivers. Which lane to choose? Why do I get beeped at if I’m in the right lane? Drivers must exit roundabouts from the right hand lane, because the only way to leave the roundabout is by turning right. This does-
n’t mean we always have to enter the roundabout from the right hand lane. It depends on the exit we need to take. However this simple rule, in practice, can be more complex. Let us see some examples. 1st EXIT RIGHT Enter roundabout keeping to right hand side lane. Stay in lane until exit is reached. Indicate and exit roundabout. CONTINUING STRAIGHT ON (e.g. 2nd EXIT STRAIGHT AHEAD) Enter roundabout keeping to right hand side lane. Stay in lane until exit is reached. Indicate prior to exit and leave roundabout. TURNING LEFT OR CHANGING DIRECTION (e.g. 3rd OR FINAL EXIT) Enter roundabout keeping to left hand side lane. Stay in lane until you have passed the exit before your turn off, then change lane by indicating right and giving other road users sufficient time to anticipate your manoeuvre. Don’t forget that drivers circulating in the outside lanes have priority, so use your mirrors to ensure you are not blocking them as you change lanes.
We hope the information provided in this article is of interest to you.
If you would like to contact Linea Directa please call 902 123 139 More information on Linea Directa online at www.lineadirecta.com
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QUICKIE CROSSWORD
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 7 Elite; 8 Elevate; 9 Traffic; 10 Amiss; 12 Importance; 15 Negligence; 18 Drift; 19 Tornado; 21 Hostile; 22 Alien. DOWN: 1 Restrained; 2 Vital; 3 Pelf; 4 Re-echo; 5 Pedantic; 6 Patient;
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Spellbound;
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Maintain; 14 Against; 16 Esteem; 17 Rapid; 20 Real. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 7 Upper; 8 Carpets; 9 Trestle; 10 Novel; 12 Tennis club; 15 Settlement; 18 Stair; 19 Swahili; 21 Concern; 22 House. DOWN: 1 Huntresses; 2 Opted; 3 Writ; 4 Screen; 5 Grandson; 6 Servile; 11 Libertines; 13 Enlarges; 14 Strains; 16 Musing; 17 Pique; 20 Ache.
ACROSS 7. Cave (6) 8. Hue (6) 10. Work (7) 11. Power (5) 12. Extol (4) 13. Sentry (5) 17. Subject (5) 18. Bellow (4) 22. Original (5) 23. Destructive (7) 24. Tell (6) 25. Customer (6)
DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 9. 14. 15. 16. 19. 20. 21.
Base (7) Optimistic (7) Purloin (5) Solace (7) Plank (5) Short (5) Financial (9) Twist (7) Stay (7) Attending (7) Append (5) Cunning (5) Last (5)
L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z
SUDOKU CHALLENGE Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. Solution on Page 23
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Tuesday Euromillions jackpot 48 million euro Wednesday UK Lottery jackpot 45 million euro
is the largest community in the Antarctic called? 9. How many suspects are there in a game of Cluedo? Gain two extra points for naming all of them. 10. A diacritic is a character added above, within or after letters in written language. Examples include the comma, full stop and accents. Draw each of the following diacritics: a: Circumflex, b: Caron, c: Tilde, d: Macron, e: Diaeresis 11. Which was the last animated film on which Walt Disney worked? 12. In which cities will you find the following airports: a: Dyce, b: O'Hare, c: Schipol, d: John Wayne? e: Woodford 13. The longest strait in the world is also a haven for pirates. What is the name of this pirate infested strait? 14. What are the first names for each of the following famous drummers from the 60s and 70s? a.
Helm, b. Mitchell, c. Keltner, d. Baker, e. York 15. What is the world's longest railway line, and between which two cities does it run? 16. In which films did Sir Laurence Olivier play the following roles? a. Ezra Lieberman, b. Mahdi, c. Marcus Licinius Crassus, d. Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding, e. Dr Christian Szell, f. Rudolf Hess
QUIZ ANSWERS
1. Bobby soxers, 2. Evonne Goolagong. (The well known lapses were coined 'walkabouts' by the press). 3. Tom and Jerry, 4. Tunisia (Ras Ben Sakka, Cap Blanc), 5. Strawberries. (a quart of missing strawberries), 6. France (Neauphle-le-Chateau), 7. Four, 8. McMurdo Station. (after Archibald McMurdo), 9. Six, and they are: Miss Scarlett (Miss Scarlet in North American versions) (a red piece), Colonel Mustard (a yellow piece), Mrs. White (a white piece), Reverend Green (Mr. Green in pre-2002 North American versions) (a green piece), Mrs. Peacock (a blue piece), Professor Plum (a purple piece). a: ^ (like an upside down 'V'), b: v (a 'V' shape as often used in the Czech language), c: ~ (like a rotated 'S' shape, often used in Computing), d: ? (a straight line above a letter), e: ? (two dots above a letter, like the Germanic umlaut sign). 11. The Jungle Book, 12. a: Aberdeen, b: Chicago, c: Amsterdam, d: Los Angeles, e: Tokyo, 13. Strait of Malacca. 14. a. Levon Helm (The Band), b. Mitch Mitchell (Jimi Hendrix Experience), c. Jim Keltner (various), d. Ginger Baker (Cream and Blind Faith), e. Pete York (Spencer Davis Group). 15. Trans-Siberian; Moscow and Vladivostok.16. a. Boys from Brazil, b. Khartoum, c. Spartacus, d. The Battle of Britain, e. Marathon Man, f. Wild Geese II.
ACROSS 7. Demands payment in accordance with obsolete laws (6) 8. Instant importance (6) 10. A piece of furniture to provide comfort (7) 11. One personifying the beginning of depravity and wickedness (5) 12. Bad language coming from the boat-house (4) 13. Without any hesitation the monk makes nourishing food (5) 17. The French doctors are frolicsome creatures (5) 18 and 5Dn. Assume permission to go on furlough (4,5) 22. Fastens up one's hair (5) 23. Labels required for neckwear and everything inside (7) 24. Go looking for a scrap when hemmed in by the enemy (6) 25. The net's in a different position for this! (6)
1. Which Bobby's were mad about Frank Sinatra in the 1940s? 2. Kim Clijsters in 2009 became the second mother since 1980 to win a Grand Slam singles title. DOWN The other mother, famous for her lapses in con1. Cleric holding a nuclear device (7) centration, won the Wimbledon singles title in 2. The gateman has become a tycoon (7) 1980. What was her name? 3. On which one perhaps sits to be in the sun (5) 3. Which famous duo first appeared in "Puss n 4. Company tried desperately to produce explosive (7) Toots" in 1942 5. See 18 Ac. 4. In which country is the most northerly point in 6. Purloined a vestment (5) Africa? 9. He's done something shameful about verification of the 5. What kind of food plays a role in the demise of will (9) Captain Queeg in the film 'The Caine Mutiny'? 14. Physiotherapy service required over a long time (7) 6. In which (European) country did the Ayatollah 15. One who gets the treatment is not easily provoked (7) Khomeini spend his last years of exile before returning to Iran? 16. Troublesome priests don't give in (7) 7. How many spikes are there on the toe of a stan19. Seek to deceive, being very outspoken (5) dard golf shoe? 20. Make a scratch number of points (5) 8. Named after a Scottish Royal Navy officer, what 21. Quick - run away before the trouble starts (5)
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Boats and Nautical
Boat servicing, engine oil/ filter change. General maintenance, fault finding, anti fouling, hull cleaning, accessory installation. Torrevieja to Mazarron. Licensed and registered in Spain, 20 years experience. All makes of outboard engines catered for. Competitive prices, all work guaranteed English/Spanish speaking. Call Tony on 628 166 738 (65470) FOR RENT - up to 10 metre berth - Marina Salinas - CALL 648 627 272 (69101)
Separate shower room with hot and cold water. Kitchen 12’4” by 6’6”. Fridget. Electric cooker with grill and 4 ring gas hob and extractor fan. Cupboards and work tops. Water purifier and stainless steel sink. Open, large lounge 12’4” by 14’6”. Two sets of double sliding glass doors. Air-conditioning and ceiling fans. Mosquito nets and blinds or curtains on all windows and doors. Pull out blind on patio. Freehold. Communal swimming pool, restaurants, bars, and shop.Offers around £ 60,000. Please call 634 325 503
Social and Clubs Volunteers are urgently needed in all areas by the Age Concern LIFELINE Team visiting people in their own homes to assess their needs, reporting back to the Lifeline Team Leader. There are many people who live alone, are lonely and need some form of social contact. Please call Age Concern on 96 678 6887. (69185)
Business Opportunity
Pets
Busy Profitable Bar /Restaurant in La Manga. Free Hold Premises, Front Line Med. Turn Key Operation, 100 covers. All licences in place. 240,000€ O.N.O. Selling due to retirement. Call : 868 08 34 55. Or Email: a n n a - g a rg a n @ h o t m a i l . c o m
Delmonte Catotel Cartagena. The cattery that cares! Tel 968 168 711 or 616 276 379 (69083)
Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford C-Max priced at just 17,900 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. (69148)
Caravan for Sale La Manga Static home for sale. Large plot with deeds. Shed with plumbing for washing machine. Two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes and air-conditioning. Toilet with hot and cold water.
Property for Rent WANTED URGENTLY We are receiving requests for La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, San Miguel schools catchment area, detached houses. If you think your property may be suitable please CALL NOW on 966 772 553
SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS. Large 1 bed apartment. Built in 2010, everything as new. Good sized separate kitchen, balcony off lounge, English TV, air-con, communal pool. 395 euros per calendar month, including allowance for bills. Long term contracts provided 966 772 553 MAR MENOR/PLAYA HONDA 2 Bed 1 bath, spacious 1st floor apartment. Separate kitchen, spacious lounge with patio doors leading to a large balcony with storage cupboard, UKTV, communal pool, walking distance to beach 400 pcm plus bills. Long term contracts provided 966 772 553 PLAYA FLAMENCA 2 Bed, 1 bath 1st floor apartment with English TV. Walking distance to Carrefour supermarket, the commercial centres of Playa Flamenca, La Mosca and the Citrus centre. 375 euros pcm. Call us on 966 772 553 URGENT! - Properties required for waiting clients. We are receiving requests for La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, San Miguel schools catchment area, 2 or 3 bed houses, and detached villas. Let your property earn you money - CALL NOW on 966 772 553 PILAR DE LA HORADADA 2 bed 1 bath house on one level. Currently furnished but could be unfurnished. Driveway to fore, courtyard at rear and private
solarium 500 euros per month, inclusive of allowance for bills. Legal let with contracts 966 772 553 JACARILLA. 3 Bed, 2 bath apartment. Good sized separate kitchen with external patio off, balcony with lovely views over orange groves. UK TV, air-con, communal pool 400 euros. Contracts provided 966 772 553
Property for Sale For Sale Town House In SAX/Alicante. 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, with separate granny flat. Single Garage space & 50 metre Patio. Quiet area with no community fees. Close to all local amenities. 160,000€ O.N.O. Call: 868 08 34 55 Or email: anna-gargan@hotmail.com LA MANGA - Immaculate 2 bed, 2 bath apartment. Fully-furnished. Close to beaches and Veneziola Golf. 2nd floor. Reduced for quick sale. 125.500 Euro. Tel 626 253 569. (90187) Dolores. Large Finca in plot of 10,000 m2. All services connected. Build Size 215m2. Must be viewed. 195,000 euros. Tel 649 189 930 (65297) Beautifully presented 2 bed ground floor bungalow. Property consists of Lounge/Diner, good sized kitchen with storage area,
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Master bedroom with fitted wardrobes, twin bedroom with fitted wardrobes and family bathroom. Good sized garden and communal pool. This property is located just a short stroll to Villamartin and is ideal for full time living and holidays 80,000 euros Tel 966 772 553 (92320) A stunning quad villa in playa golf property with 2 bedrooms 1.5 bathroom and large garden just a short walk from bars and the bus and only a 5 mins drive to the beach 115,000 euros contact Ian on 644 115 988 (96290) 2 Bedroom quad villa in Lomas de Cabo Roig just 5 mins walk to the shop and about 5 mins drive to the beach this has been a lovely home but need to sell now it only 89,999 euros call Carl on 672 875 251 (96292)
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Ground floor bungalow over looking community garden and just a short walk from the supermarket carrefour in Torrevieja this is a lovely property with a nice size garden Ideal for you if you are looking to be close to all amenties was 99,000 euros now 75,000 euros call me James on 644 138 502 (96293) Refurbished top floor bungalow with private garden and private solarium in the Verdemars with sea view and golf views also we have refurbished to a high standard there is a lovely stream just a few mins walk away and the communtiy is a nice and clean with 2 communal pool now 124,999 euros call today Paul on 634 043 697 (96294)
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Monday 4th April - Sunday 10th April, 2016
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www.theleader.info
Monday 4th April - Sunday 10th April, 2016
ADVERTISING HOTLINE
637 227 385
LEADER
INFORMER
ADVERTISING HOTLINE 676 820 588
Monday 4th April, 2016
If you have a phone or Tablet or computer that is running slowly then make use of Fowof’s cleaning and maintenance service, usually carried out within 24 hours and very reasonably priced. A Tablet service costs from around 10€ and computers around 39€, the difference you will notice immediately plus you will get rid of all those viruses including adverts or that annoying program you try to unsubscribe from, only to find it reintroduces itself the next day asking if you are sure you want to delete me? I made a small mistake one day, opening a program that looked interesting, only to find I then can not get rid of it, a few years ago we met some people in a bar who said they had bought a caravan on a nudist site in Cartagena, I must admit I decided to look at the site on my return home, bad mistake, I got details of that site plus nearly every other nudist site in Spain, my own fault, I was being nosey, as it happens it had a really bad write up with regard to facilities etc. but I took it in to Fowof and they got rid of the continual emails, adverts, though I had to admit I had looked at it of my own free will, so no blame attached to others, but as a guide every time I clicked on the box in the top right hand corner, it opened another page instead of closing the
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your equipment is much easier to clean and reset. Remember with Fowof’s in house repairs and maintenance, they try to return your computer the same day if brought in early in the morning, or within 24 hours. Ask in the shop, they will usually tell you how quickly it will be seen and repaired, even complex repairs are kept to a minimum, the only hold up may be getting any spares that are not available in stock but they are usually delivered within 24 hours. Tasia points out that the most important information they need when you come in is the problems you are getting and any Passwords that are needed to open the Computer, Tablet, or even phone.
With Easter now behind us for another year, the visitors made great use of their purchase power of Spanish produce, many items they could buy here for a fraction of the cost in the UK, mainly I must admit cigarettes were top of the visitors shopping list, with savings of 2/3rds of the price of UK cigarettes I can see the attraction, but next came electronic goods. OPEN/unlocked phone, this is one that is suitable to use on any network, the equivalent of that sold for 89€ at Fowof, can cost as much as £95.00 that is around 128€, a saving of some 39€. The other items, Tablets etc. are around 20% cheaper here in Spain yet are the same as those sold in the UK, computers are the same but with even larger savings the cost of transportation makes them not as attractive, seeing as you need a suitcase costing 50€ it is not so good. Remember not only will your phone work here but it will also work on ANY network in the UK, so if on holiday or a resident, great savings can be had on phones at Fowof and remember you are not tied to any one network, so you can choose to change at any time to a cheaper network, just ask in the shop to find out about different types of phones. Another benefit from buying from a small business such as Fowof, when you buy your new phone it will be set up for you, so you are ready to go when you leave the shop in your chosen language, internet is ready to use, plus they also can provide for as little as 15€ a month an internet and call package which gives 600 minutes of International calls and Internet access. If you do not want internet, you can get even more hours of calls just ask about the different packages you can have, no contract just simple pay as you go.
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page? So nearly impossible to get out of it. I learnt my lesson, but after reading about it in February and I am someone who has nothing against nudity, I wondered who on earth would walk round with no clothes on, in February? I wear jumpers, jackets, a liberty bodice ( my mum told me I had to wear that) mind you she also told me not to be nosey. Any one out there who has gone onto one of these sites that attract others by being listed under Nudist or sex, or anything else that exploits our curiosity, If you have this problem take it along to FOWOF, they will clean all these repetitive pages from your machine, making your machine better to handle, do not worry about the engineers, they have all done it and do not look at your downloads. It is however not only these sites that cause problems when browsing the internet, I went onto a medical site to self diagnose my ailment, but again when I came out of it, the pages came up by themselves, it would seem once any page has been downloaded it attaches other items to keep you reading about the subject. I was bombarded with cheap medication and several online Chemists who were prepared to sell me anything to cure my illnesses. It is a shame but as Tasia and Manuel explained all these sites are there to sell you something so being careful when looking through them is a must, also having a decent anti virus installed is important as it stops attachments being made to your computer. But for those of you with Tablets this is not available, but
One last point ‘The Hotspots’ that give you internet at home 24/7 the monthly cost is around 15€, this gives you internet access for up to 8 machines, to stop others using your internet they are protected with a password, these can save you a great deal of money here in Spain and also anywhere else in Europe you decide to use it. Ask in the shop for details, with regard to suitability and cost. It can save that early morning trip to a Wi-Fi centre to check your bank, Airline tickets etc. Our friend purchased a Hotspot when she went into hospital so she could use Whatsapp, check Emails etc. and it saved money plus she was in contact with her family and friends all the time she was there, which also broke the boredom. Also remember when shopping for Ink Cartridges for your printer, if you are only an occasional user like me, ask about the cheaper Cartridges, they can save you around 30% and unless you use your printer every day, they can be a money saving alternative. I use them and find them to be cost effective with regard to my usage One last point, a very close friend has a baby who is now walking and so is becoming difficult to amuse, on Tuesday, the baby had watched her talking on the phone for some time and was used to mummy giving him the phone to play with to keep him amused, after locking it so no damage could be done or false calls made. So he readily took the phone to play with, after a few minutes baby walked out of living room and went into hallway and returned without the phone. So though he is very good at walking, conversations or answering questions is at present beyond him, so she went to look for her phone, after some 30 minutes of searching, it was found laying in the bottom of the toilet bowl. So now she knows what the baby thinks of being ignored when she is on the phone. The phone was ruined baby thought he had done no wrong, so beware when thinking your phone will amuse your child and with it switched off and locked, what possible harm could he do? The answer 269€ the replacement price for her super-duper non-waterproof phone. I think a short call to Doctor Bernados with regard to vacancies would have been in order. See their main advert on page 1.
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Monday 4th April, 2016
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"YOU DID SAY 'HAVE ANOTHER SAUSAGE'?" IS PUBLISHED
A
COLLECTION OF LIGHT-HEARTED, ANECDOTAL TRUE STORIES Excerpt from the Book: "On the first day of term in January, I returned Myrtle to her stand in the studio. Jeff and I walked to college; I couldn't risk another crowded bus with a skeleton under my arm. I bumped into the principal on the corridor, and he asked me if everything had been okay with the skeleton over the holidays. "Oh, fine," I answered cheerily, "She's had a really good Christmas." With a dubious smile, he asked me if I had done much work. I assured him that I had. He nodded and, as he went off towards his office, I shouted, "Oh, by the way Mr. Gill," and as he turned around I said, "I've counted every bone, especially the little fingers, so I don't think you will be reading about any murder investigations." You Did Say 'Have Another Sausage'? is available in paperback from Amazon UK at:
About the Book John Meadows shares his wide-ranging experiences as a mischievous art student, bemused psychiatric nurse, reluctant parachutist, harassed teacher, American counsellor and time-traveller. Follow his hilarious escapades with a human skeleton, nude model and a lion, and witness incidents of mistaken identity that create comic situations in a psychiatric ward. Touring America by Greyhound Bus he encounters interesting characters and uncovers some intriguing stories. Occasionally, he takes a detour and travels by time-machine to visit his future self as a teacher supervising school art tours. Each chapter has a different scenario and whimsical, observational humour is the common thread. About the Author John Meadows is a retired Head of an Arts Faculty who was born in St. Helens but 'crossed the rugby Rubicon' and now lives in Wigan. He works as an artist spending much of his time at his home in Spain. John is a graduate of Leeds University and he has a Master's Degree from Manchester University. His love of art and travel has taken him to over one hundred countries throughout the world.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/You-Did-HaveAnother-Sausage/dp/1944156151 and this book can be downloaded in e-book format from: http://www.amazon.co.uk/You-Did-HaveAnother-Sausage-ebook/dp/B01BH4NXE2
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MARINERA & CALDERO ROUTE IN LA MANGA, CABO DE PALOS AND LA UNION The undeniable success of the tapas routes has led on to the Marinera and Caldero Routes. In Cabo de Palos, La Manga and a few places in Los Belones and Playa Honda from April 1st to April 17th, 44 establishments are taking part in this gastronomical delight. A marinera is a traditional Spanish tapa, which consists of a dried bread stick topped off with Russian salad and an anchovy. The recipe for Russian salad varies from place to place but mainly consists of potatoes, tuna, pickled gherkin, peppers, olives, eggs and mayonnaise. The price of a marinera and a drink which can be a glass of wine, small beer or soft drink is just 2€. The Caldero route showcases the local rice delicacy which started with the fisherman, they would basically chuck all the left over fish cuttings in a great big pot with some seasoning and rice over an open fire. This has developed into a popular local dish and competition for the best caldero recipe is fierce. The price for a tapa of caldero with a drink is 3€. Also during the weekend of Marinera and Caldero route, the tourist train in La Manga is free for all those who have a tapas route card, so make sure you get on and get ot stamped from any of the participating businesses. A great place to start is at the Cafeteria Excelente, next to the Spar supermarket in Cabo de Palos, Pedro and his team is offering both options, the Marinera and El Caldero, remember to pick up your route card to ride the tourist train for free! As always there are prizes to encourage people to try as many Marineras and Calderos as possible. To vote on your winning Marinera or Caldero you must get 5 stamps and be in with a chance to win 2 spa sessions at the Entre Mares Hotel, free entrance into Pueto de Culturas in Cartagena and a course in photography. La Union is also holding their own tapas route from April 1st to 17th and 31 establishments are taking part. For 2.50€ enjoy a tapa and a drink and don’t forget to vote for your winner. To be in with a chance to win some great prizes including meals for 2 and tickets to local cultural events you must try 12 tapas and get the corresponding stamps.
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Monday 4th April, 2016
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HAVE YOU BEEN TO CHATTERS? Chatters is an informal social group, free of charge and open to all without membership. Just turn up, join in and enjoy. We are sponsored by Help At Home Mar Menor. We meet on the third Wednesday of each month at The Pasty Shack, Rio Nalon, near to the Mercadona in Los Alcazares.
Help At Home Mar Menor is a local charity who makes no charge for providing a little temporary help to those in need. We rely solely on fundraising and donations. Find out more about what we do and upcoming events by following us on Facebook or by visiting www.helpathome.es
Free refreshments are served between 10.15am & 10.45am before we start the meeting at 11am. This includes a Quiz and Picture Quiz with the opportunity to win modest prizes, after which we always have a different Guest Speaker talking about and answering questions about a range of topics of interest and use to Expats. The Speaker at the next Chatters on Wednesday April 20th will be from Coach Trips sl, aka Dave's Coaches. He will be telling us about all the places they visit, and which trip would best meet you own particular interests. Why not come along and join in? Meet old friends and perhaps make new ones? After the meeting several people regularly stay on to enjoy the Pasty Shack's delicious range of snacks and lunches. Attendance is growing, and more and more attendees are coming regularly, so be sure to put the date in your diary and to arrive early.
SPEED
TRAP LOCATIONS FOR THIS WEEK
Cartagena Local Police have published the locations of the radars which will be checking vehicles speed over the next week, April 4th to April 10th The radars will be in place on: Avenida Víctor Beltrí. c/ Mar Menor (Los Belones) c/ Belgrado (Polígono Cabezo Beaza) Avda. Bruselas (Polígono Cabezo Beaza) Avda. Luxemburgo (Polígono Cabezo Beaza) RM-332 (Bda. San José Obrero) Los Urrutias Ronda Transversal RM-36 Calle Sebastián Feringán. Plaza Alicante N-332 (Carretera de La Unión). c/ Loma Farias (La Loma de Canteras) c/ Viña del Mar y c/ Cuzco (La Vaguada) Dr. Serrano (Barrio Peral) c/ Recoletos (San Antón) Avda. Pintor Portela
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Monday 4th April, 2016
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DEREK’S MONTHLY CRUISE SHIP ARRIVAL CALENDAR FOR CARTAGENA Cruise ship arrivals calendar for Cartagena.
We are asking all budding Cruise ship spotters and photographers to send in snaps of your sightings of the Cruise ships in Cartagena to editor@informernews.org, the best shots will be printed in the paper. April
Time
Ship name
Cruise liner
09 07:00 13:00 Eurodam Holland America Line 2104 www.hollandamerica.com 11 07:00 14:00 Costa neoRomantica Costa Crceros 1800 www.costacruceroses 11 09:00 18:00 Silver Wind Silversea Cruises 296 www.silversea.com 11 08:00 17:00 Pacific Princess Princess Cruises 672 www.princess.com 12 08:00 17:00 Ventura P&O Cruises 3600 www.pocruises.com 13 07:00 18:00 Celebrity Constellation Celebrity Cruises 2038 www.celebritycruises.com 17 08:00 16:00 Star Clipper Star Clipppers 170 www.starclippers.com
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ORIHUELA COSTA RBL EASTER LUNCH The Orihuela Costa and District Branch of The Royal British Legion held their annual Easter Lunch at the Sunrise Restaurant Playa Flamenca on Sunday 20 March. This was attended by 75 members and friends of the Branch
The Orihuela Costa and District Branch meet at The Olympia Restaurant Mil Palmeras every 3rd Thursday of the month, 7 for 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend and join. You DO NOT have to be ex service to do so. For more information visit our web site.
Several members made and adorned Easter Bonnets and a panel of judges voted that Pauline Breen came first and commended the rest of the participants for all their efforts.
www.branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branch es/orihuela-costa
The food and company made the whole afternoon very enjoyable. The next meeting of the Branch will be at a slightly earlier time of 1800 for 1830. This due to a dinner after the meeting along with entertainment from TAABS and the Crazy Ladies to celebrate HRH Queen Elisabeth 90th Birthday
19 08:00 17:00 Eurodam Holland America Line 2104 www.hollandamerica.com 20 08:00 17:00 Celebrity Reflection Celebrity Cruises 3046 www.celebritycruises.com
GREAT EASTER SUNDAY RACING tricky and forced all crews to think and work out their strategies.
Easter Sunday, the second Race Day of the SAMM Spring Series, turned out to be a great and exciting day, despite the tardy start no doubt due to the clocks going forward the night before. There were two races of 4 laps each with the cruisers starting 10 minutes before the dinghies. The Race Officer set what he thought was an interesting course. With a southerly wind at about 10 to 12 Knots he set the first mark due SE of the gate near the moored ferries, the second due north, the third west and finally beat back. Number one proved to be very
In race 1, Sirocco and Mistral went over the line together bang on the start signal and after the first lap were only 20 seconds apart. Poor old Connie just about completed one lap when all the other boats had finished. Shoestring Cuatro and the Hartley crossed the line together right on the dinghy signal and exchanged the lead over the four laps. Shoestring Uno had reefed and then lost time shaking it out. The start gate proved to be a magnet and by the time of the 4th lap the boats had to dodge, canoeists, a dozen Polish windsurfers and four CAR boats loaded to the gills with children. A very close finish, with Shoestring Cuatro winning by a few seconds. By race 2 the wind started to change from the South to the East and slightly faded. This resulted in the first lap taking twice as long as the first lap in the first race. However two cracking starts again. With a shortened course in mind, the wind picked up to 15 knots and lap times were cut to about 18 minutes, finally resulting in another win for Shoestring Cuatro. Photo - The Winning Crew (L to R) Vernon O'Byrne, Ingo Wilson, John Down Next race day April 10th For more information about SAMM have a look at their web site www.sailingmarmenor.com
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Monday 4th April, 2016
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INFORMER GOLF Rory McIlroy has decided to bypass Augusta the par 3 contest to concentrate on next weeks Masters, not a problem but a bit unfair on the sponsors, especially when he declares it’s too much hassle, yet his best Master result was last year, when forth to Jordan Spieth. McIlroy also managed 4th in the match play championship last week, he was beaten in the semi finals by Jason Day then lost to Rafa Cabrera (Spanish) for the third place playoff. Rory’s best result of late, was his third in the Cadillac championship held at the Trump National golf club on 6th March, I wonder if Mr Trump took time off from his nomination for president campaign to attend the event, seeing as they have cancelled the big competition to be held there because of Mr Trumps attitude towards immigration. Quite strange as you rarely hear of an illegal or legal immigrant ever winning golf competitions, I think this is politically motivated, but with his money does he care? I doubt it, he has stated on occasions how he would like to control the golf in the U.S.A, which he is close to doing so with the courses, and players who are in his hands. The next step for him is to build the next Trump enterprises course in Scotland that has many people opposing the project or rather against him getting a foothold into Scotland, but whatever it will give a few hundred people a job and will give the game the publicity it sometimes lacks, good or bad, only time will tell, but if he does become President, while we are having World War 3 and 4 plus deporting anyone whose great grand parents were not born and bread in the U.S.A, plus building a wall round the coast of America to stop any immigration, you will also be required to present the details of your religious beliefs before entering any matches played in America! Now I am not biased either way, I could not care who wins but the only thing is you have to be rich, very rich, just to join in the race, but then like all previous Presidents you can then cause mayhem worldwide, or if Hillary Clinton wins she will get a secretary (male) then treat him like her husband treated Monica Lewinsky. Using his words, “I never touched that lady” Hilary can say I never touched that man! But back to golf, after the Easter weekend here in Murcia that saw most clubs getting players pouring in from all over Europe, mainly because we were having the best weather in Europe, the UK was suffering its usual rain and cold with high winds so
as to make you feel like staying at home. But we went to 2 courses over the Easter weekend and had to wait 40 minutes to tee off, not a problem as there is always the bar to wait in; but after the initial wait, we had no hold ups, though I lost a ball and when the players behind got close, I replaced it with another and my next stroke saw that disappear into the lake? Now why it had to do that, at that moment in time, so as to embarrass me, I do not know; why bad shots always take place in front of a crowd, but being a good sport, I stomped off the fairway and conceded the hole. It did not ruin the round as it was already well beyond recovery, also well past me getting within the scores you tell your friends about, this ended up the score you whisper to insistent people who wish to further embarrass you. The Kia Classic was won by world number one Lydia Ko from New Zealand, at only 18 years old she has a great future on the golf circuit, sadly our only UK hope Jodi Ewart Shadoff shot a closing round of 75 dropping her right back into joint 27th place, Shadoff who was looking to get her best finish since 2014 was joint leader on day one, but dropped to 11th on day three then finished back in 27th. Either she is not good under pressure or perhaps better at playing one-day matches. She is ranked 215th in the world, that would be several thousand in front of me. We went one day to Hacienda Requelme to meet a friend who lives there and was surprised at the number of properties for sale, it seems a pleasant place and unlike its many counterparts, seems to have an abundance of room to move about with great views. I was about to comment on the many for sale boards only to notice they have one on their window, I asked why they were selling and they said though they like their ground floor apartment their friends and family who come to visit are always wanting to go to the beach which is a long way away. They have their ground floor apartment up for sale for offers around 75,000€, which is a small percentage in relation to what they paid. He is a regular golfer and I said surely where ever you move to will make it harder for you to play, but it turns out he is a regular at a course near San Miguel, being the captain he is obliged to play there, but they also pointed out that they receive very little with regard to discounts as a resident playing on their home course I have continually pointed out that urbanisations attached to a golf club
should offer better prices to keep players from going to other courses, but from what I see travelling round, courses seem to advertise to get others on to the course yet their residents are not given suitable discounts to encourage them to play. This is the same at all local courses which gives you reason to question their marketing strategy. They built all these houses and flats to get a ready made customer base only to charge them more for using the course, than someone who lives off the estate, very strange, plus the residents have lost fortunes with regard to depreciation which is not helped when you realise you get next to nothing to encourage them to stay at their home course. As far as courses are concerned Mar Menor Golf seems the most successful with regard to encouraging residents to play there, I do not know their pricing system but it seems to be the most successful in the area, with few complaints considering they have lots of resident who seem happy to play on the course. Also just up the road from Mar Menor Golf lies Golf Deluxe, the 18 hole American style putting greens, which costs only a fraction of a round of golf and also provides meals that are very good quality yet cost very little. Golf Deluxe is open to
everyone and suitable for all ages and abilities. Golf Deluxe is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon, if you are a beginner or an expert you will enjoy the game and the bar/restaurant is the best value in the area. If you have a local bar or similar arrange a competition, we went with 16 others just before Easter and it was a great, fun, day out costing less that 15€ a person. This included a round of 18 holes plus a meal all, you can all play together in sets of 2 or 4, it is good fun and not expensive, we had prizes and cups. I did not get a prize and I did not win a cup, I can only presume the others cheated. Some of you will be pleased to hear I am off for my annual holiday, next two weeks we are going to Antigua where I am allowed to visit the golf course either once or twice, the rest of the time I am on grandparent duty, keeping the children happy so their parents can enjoy the peace and quiet and I can acquire more grey hair and teach the children how to bury each other in the sand. My wife said I am allowed to enjoy myself after they have gone to bed in the evening! Hopefully, if the grandkids haven’t killed me, I will be back for next issue!
To advertise in our golfing section please contact your local rep for our latest offers, call David on 658 058 883
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