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Take advantage of this Special Offer, call +34 618 608 208, quote ÁbacoClub and we will explain all the details. We are waiting for you to contact us. Sincerely, Commercial Executive Securitas Direct Francisco Javier Lorca López Email: f.lorca@securitasdirect.es Mobile: +34 618 608 208 Exclusive offer for ÁbacoClub members and through this contact channel, if it is managed through another channel, the conditions may suffer important variations of which we are not responsible. The application of this offer is subject to a risk report by Securitas Direct. In Business the deferred option consists of 48 payments of 12,10€ (10€/month + VAT) and 48 months of permanence. Document without contractual character: the offer, the equipment and the monthly fee may suffer variations.
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ÁbacoClub Magazine is a free magazine for ÁbacoClub members. Edit ÁBACO ADVISERS Ábaco Asesoría Legal y Fiscal, S.L.U. María Parodi, 8 - 3º 03181 Torrevieja (Alicante) Spain ÁbacoClub Magazine Issue 04 - August 2021 magazine@abacoclub.es www.abacoclub.es
04 - Welcome to ÁbacoClub Magazine
ÁbacoClub – raring to go but…
08
Menorca, they say they do things in a special way
13
Where to go for a splash and a thrill – water parks in Spain
17
Leader in the telecommunications sector of the Spanish east coast
18
Camping and caravanning in Spain
21
Dining with friends – Spanish style
24
Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world
26
August Issue
06
Where to take the children and grandchildren
28
Lara Cars - Car hire that you can trust
30
Discover the true essence of Torrevieja
32
Moving money to or from Spain in 2021?
34
Explore the islands by boat
36
La Finca Resort solidifies position as leading Spanish golf
39
What factors influence the value of a home?
Index ÁbacoClub Magazine - 05
Welcome
We had it all planned. Numbers of cases were going down, the State of Alarm was over and we had every reason to think that July was the month when we could all meet up again. And then…
with companies, organisations, suppliers, providers and retailers who you can trust. In return they offer some good deals for you. Why not check out some of our alliances using your Ábaco Online account.
Well, the rest is history, almost. In the middle
Mora Solutions in conjunction with Iberdrola and Ábaco Advisers, can help you find the electricity contract that will perfectly and economically suit your needs.
ÁbacoClub – raring to go but…
Quirónsalud in Torrevieja are able to offer you an exclusive Health Line for Ábaco clients. Checkout the benefits in your Ábaco Online account.
of us planning our get togethers once more we realised that rather than opening up, things might just be closing down again. In particular, the news that groups could be confined to six or less put the kibosh on all our plans.
We are currently working with more potential collaborators to find new ways of making your Spanish experience not only better but cheaper too.
So, the bad news is that we can’t promise when our activities will start again. We will wait until we are given the official go ahead that it is safe for us all to meet up. The good news is, that every other aspect of ÁbacoClub is functioning more or less as normal and that we are always here to provide advice and some special discounts through our collaborators.
We may not be meeting up at the moment, but since our launch in November 2019 we have organised many different activities including walks in Orihuela Costa, wine tasting in Torrevieja, Spanish conversation classes, conferences and coffee breaks, health and fitness workshops and a very popular wine and tapas tour in Murcia.
Whilst you are waiting you might have time to look at our website www.abacoclub.es and offers on ÁbacoOnline What can you do to make the most of your club privileges? We’ll provide a short summary. You are special First of all, we’d like to reassure you that you are special. ÁbacoClub is only available to those people who have hired our tax representation service. It is an exclusive club that was established to provide added value to our high quality legal and tax advice. A monthly newsletter and bi-annual Ábaco Magazine are just two of the extras we provide to all our customers. And for those who subscribe to ÁbacoClub you also benefit from our bi-annual ÁbacoClub Magazine, free activities arranged on your behalf and special arrangements with our collaborators.
Helping you to enjoy Spain
Throughout the pandemic we’ve been uploading videos onto our YouTube Channel. The latest one demonstrates how you can make a Shitake and Endive Salad - perfect for a refreshing meal in this hot weather. If you’re entertaining you might also want to take a look at some of our other recipe ideas posted in YouTube – all using fresh ingredients that are locally sourced. It might not have been the best time to explore Spain and make the most of your property in the sun but we know that many of you have enjoyed watching our videos and have found your own ways of making these past months manageable. Things are still a little rocky out there, but overall we are on an upward trajectory. We hope that as the opportunity arises you will turn to our articles, information and advice to help plan your next tour or adventure in this amazing country.
This magazine aims to entice you with ideas for eating, cooking, exploring and enjoying. Take advantage of the deals We already help you keep your taxes in order, but our aim at ÁbacoClub is to do One of our key aims is to make beneficial links much more than that by introducing you to new aspects of Spain that you might not have been aware of. We might have had to put a temporary pause on arrangements but we have lots of ideas of what we want to do next. Watch this space.
06 - ÁbacoClub – raring to go but…
Do you want to know how to join our great friends club? Scan this QR code to join.
T
alking about the Ballearic islands and usually it’s Ibiza and Mallorca that get a mention first. But what about Menorca? It might not have the number of nightclubs and hot evening venues but it certainly has a lot to offer. Beginning with the calas…
Discovering Spain
The calas or ‘coves’ can be found all around Menorca’s coastline. Many of these are quiet and relatively undeveloped areas that are waiting for you to explore. It’s fair to say that there is a beach meant for everyone. Whether you are visiting the island as a family, on your own, as a couple or with a group of friends you can find somewhere that’s perfect for you.
Walks to enjoy You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to walking in Menorca. The Camí de Cavalls is just one way of discovering the island’s coast and if you do take the time to follow this route you will have chance to see firsthand the range of beaches available to you.
Menorca, they say they do things in a special way Menorca’s north and south coasts offer slightly different experiences. In the north, its beaches are generally less busy and offer a wilder and more natural setting. However, they can on occasions be buffeted by northerly winds – so watch the weather forecasts. On the southern coast of Menorca you’ll find more shelter from those northerly winds. It’s here you’ll also find that most of the tourist resorts are located. That shouldn’t put you off. There are many beautiful, sandy beaches including Cala Turqueta, Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana. Some say that Cala Mitjana is one of the best beaches in Spain, if not the best. Of course, this is always a matter of opinion and you will already have your favourite beach spot marked out. Entry to these beaches is carefully controlled through its car parking system. Once the car parks are full, the beach is closed. This helps protect these beautiful but popular sites. Heading eastward on Menorca’s south coast you’ll come across the island’s largest beach – Son Bou and further east still Cala en Porter, Binibèquer and Punta Prima – ideal beaches for families with children. So, that’s a quick tour of Menorca’s beach life but if you want to discover the heart of this island, then you need to put aside your bikini and get out your walking shoes too.
You can find out more details about this particular walk by visiting this website: https://www.descobreixmenorca.com/ en/cami-de-cavalls-3/
They divide the route up into 20 stages that traverse both the north and south coast of the island. Each one is categorised according to difficulty, given an estimated walking time and distance and you can click onto more detailed information about each stage. Another ‘must visit’ is the S’Albufera des Grau natural park. This huge protected area of land is populated by an extraordinary range of wildlife and is, in fact, Menorca’s only natural park. It’s also close by Es Grau beach – a perfect spot for the family. If you’d prefer to venture inland rather than staying close to the coast then there are also plenty of inland country tracks for you to follow. These are edged with dry-stone walls and you’ll come across a number of interesting geological and cultural features. For a walk with a specific goal then you might like to make for San Agueda Castle. As you’d expect, you have to walk up hill but the 45 minute climb follows an old Roman road that is believed to be over two thousand years old. Once you reach the top you will be rewarded by some superb views of the surrounding countryside. Menorca boasts a number of gorges that can be walked along and often include a range of interesting fauna. One such is Algendar Gorge which hosts water all year and you can find a number of caves of historical interest along the trail. The gorge passes through a number of twists and turns that see it change from an almost undecipherable path to an extensive range of limestone cliffs.
After all this walking, you’ll need to charge your batteries and Menorca has plenty of places where you can eat and do just that.
Menorca, they say they do things in a special way - 09
Discovering Spain
Food to try You’ve plenty to choose from, whether an elegant Michelin-style restaurant or a vineyard taberna is your style. As you might expect, the capital of Menorca, Mahon, plays host to a vast number of bars and restaurants but you don’t have to go big and brash. There are plenty of smaller tapas bars which provide homecooked food and perhaps one of the local dishes such as sobrasada – a spicy cured sausage.
from all the staples including lamb, chicken and rabbit. You can expect there to be plenty of garlic thrown in and figs, aubergine and green cabbage are just some of the vegetable staples you might find. https://www.descobreixmenorca.com/en/ menorcan-cuisine/
There are also a number of establishments that are raising their sites on more ‘trendy’ menus. Some are experimenting with ‘fusion’ which allows chefs to try an imaginative blend of ingredients from traditional to international. Again, you are more likely to find these types of restaurants in and around Mahon, but each local town or village will have a venue ready to try something new or simply to offer the best of the traditional.
Water sports to freshen up
Of course, Menorca is part of Spain and you can expect to sample all the usual dishes that you would on the mainland. However, Menorca also has its own special tastes and delicacies that you really must try whilst you are there. Lobster soup may be a little extravagant but is definitely down as one dish to try if you’re not short of a bob or two.
Neptune grass is a plant that forms large underwater meadows close to the beach. They harbour a unique ecosystem which also protects and reduces erosion on the beaches. There are several to choose from but one you might select is S’Escala, Favaritx beach. Here you will find a rocky islet with calm and shallow waters. Whilst snorkelling you can expect to come close to a range of different fish including species of sea bream.
As you might expect, seafood is popular with octopus, cuttlefish, ‘ray’ and even snails, being popular. However, meat is also definitely on the menu and you can choose
The S’Albufera des Grau natural park. This huge protected area of land is populated by an extraordinary range of wildlife and is, in fact, Menorca’s only natural park.
The Mediterranean waters surrounding the island are some of the clearest and bluest that you will see. Welcome to Menorca’s turquoise paradise. With such epic water around its coastline you would expect snorkelling to be a favourite past time. The Neptune Grass sea beds are a good place to start.
You might also want to try Cavalleria beach and Cala Pregonda which are located in a nature reserve where fishing has been prohibited. This means that there is lush fauna and crystal clear waters – perfect for spotting sea life. A boat is a good way of discovering Menorca’s beautiful coves and beaches. If you don’t have one of your own then you might like to hire one, crew included! There are also plenty of organised day trips that you can choose from to take you out and bring you back safe and sound. If you fancy going it alone then you can hire a kayak which leaves you in charge of your own destination. These are available from some the most popular beaches including Es Grau, Cala Galdana and Sant Tomàs. Of course, you’ll also find a range of other water sports available there including paddle boarding, jetski, water ski and, for those wanting to ride high - you might even be able to try flyboarding.
Landmarks and culture to sample Taking part in exhilarating water sports is not everyone’s cup of tea. If you prefer a more leisurely stroll around places of interest then Menorca has plenty to offer. A favourite pastime is visiting its elegant wineries or ‘bodegas’. You can have a guided tour and get to taste the wines whilst
10 - Menorca, they say they do things in a special way
Discovering Spain
you’re there. One building you should definitely drop by is the main theatre of Maó. It is, in fact, the oldest opera theatre in Spain, being built in 1829. It’s not just a building of historic interest either. You can book to see one of its shows which run throughout the year. As you might expect, Menorca has, along with its beautiful calas, some potentially dangerous strips of rocks that used to pose a threat to fishermen in days gone by. The Favàritx lighthouse is just one building that reminds you of man’s attempts to master the sea and safely bring seafarers home again. Altogether there are seven lighthouses in Menorca, so you could even construct your own lighthouse trail! https://www.descobreixmenorca.com/en/ lighthouses-of-menorca/ Dotted around the island are ‘standingstones’ which date back to Menorca’s Talaiotic culture. Reminiscent of Stonehenge, it’s believed that these structures were erected pre-Roman times as houses, look-out points and for defence. There are also some burial chambers still standing and you can find out more about these relics from ancient times and some of the history behind them through this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=XANow-HB0bE&t=140s The site ‘descubrir Menorca’ also includes more information about some of the individual sites: https://www.descobreixmenorca.com/en/ megalithic-menorca/ and a map of where the main ones are. If it’s finding out more about the people of Menorca and their traditions that you would like to do, then you could do worse than joining in with one of Menorca’s vibrant fiestas. San Juan is one of the most exciting and energetic of Spain’s festivals. Celebrated at the beginning of the summer, it gives rise to the optimism that early dawns and late dusks can provide. In Menorca, San Juan celebrations not only include fire but horses too. We’ve just touched on some of the attractive features of this talented little island. You might also want to take a wander round its busy shopping malls and centres, its craft fairs and markets and enjoy its nightlife venues. Of course, not to be compared with Ibiza, but then why would you? Menorca is proud to be different and if you do get chance to visit we’re sure you’ll see why.
Menorca, they say they do things in a special way - 11
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Discovering Spain
After those long COVID months, you may be ready to venture out a little and seek something more exciting than your back garden. Then again it might just be a case of needing to entertain the children or grandchildren. Either way, Spain has its fair share of places where you can take a dip
scattered around Spain. Aqualandia, Benidorm The nearest large water park to our Torrevieja and Alicante offices is Aqualandia in Benidorm. It has been open since 1985 but still maintains a good selection of attractions for thrill-seekers as well as a number of swimming pools and a wave pool. If you really want to test your courage you might like to try Verti-Go which is described as ‘like jumping from the 13th floor’.
Where to go for a splash and a thrill – water parks in Spain and have an entertaining day out. They’re not everyone’s cup of tea, but water parks are a popular destination for young people and their families visiting or living in Spain. They might not be on the scale of those you’d find in Florida but there are certainly plenty of venues scattered around the country that are well-worth a visit. The big water parks Water parks are usually closed during the autumn, winter and spring and make the most of the hottest summer months to draw in the crowds. Understandably they are very popular when the temperatures hit the 30 degree plus zone. They can be expensive but there are often special deals that can help you to keep the price down. You will need to plan a day at one of these carefully. The cost means that you don’t want to arrive midday although some parks do offer cut price tickets after a certain time. This could suit you if you work in the morning or have other prior commitments. However, most water parks are not open late so do check that you’re not having to pack your bags shortly after arriving. The rides in such a park will be age and height restricted. Check this out before you go. The last thing you want is to find you’ve brought your toddler to a thrill-focussed adventure park where they end up watching everyone else enjoy themselves.
https://www.aqualandia. net/en/attractions/
Water World, Lloret del Mar Wherever there is a major holiday destination there is likely to be a water park somewhere close by. Lloret del Mar remains a favourite amongst foreigners and as such it hosts Water World. You’ll find speed slides, rapid descents and the rather scary ‘Speed Furious’ along with the usual selection of attractions aimed at children. https://waterworld.es/en/rides.html Port Aventura Caribe Aquatic park In the north of Spain, Port Aventura theme park has its own water park - Caribe Aquatic Park. It extends over 50,000 m2 and has a range of attractions and rides, as you would expect. It also has an indoor area specially designed for young children with pools and slides. Its more challenging rides include Mambo Limbo and for a quick descent to the ground try out El Tifón. https://www.portaventuraworld. com/en/aquatic-park Siam Park Not on Spain’s mainland but on Tenerife in the Canary Islands, you’ll find Siam Park, Adeje which was voted the world’s top water park in 2017 by TripAdvisor users. As its name suggests, it’s a Thai-themed park that appears to have tried to genuinely reflect its namesake. Worthy of a mention is its wave pool that boasts the world’s largest artificial waves and a see-through slide that takes you through a pool of sharks and stingrays.
Below is a small selection of some of the most popular and well-known parks
The park divides its attractions into those for relaxing, for the family and for those seeking an adrenaline boost. Take a 360 tour on their website to see how very impressive it looks. The effort that’s been made to follow an authentic theme gives it perhaps just an edge above some of the others. https://www.siampark.net/siam.html
Where to go for a splash and a thrill – water parks in Spain - 13
Discovering Spain
Western Park and Aqualand Not to leave out the other Spanish islands, here are two water parks that you’ll find in the Balearics. Western Park in Mallorca is not far from the popular holiday destination of Magaluf. It includes the Boomerang which is a half-pipe vertical drop and The Beast – described as a kamikaze ride! Mallorca’s biggest water park, however, can be found in El Arenal. Aqualand is in the south of the island and includes a number of thrilling attractions including the daunting King Cobra and Tsunami. You can also race against a friend on their Formula Race track or take your chances with the Tornado. https://www.westernpark.com/en/ https://www.aqualand.es/elarenal/en/ Although these water parks are generally meant for all the family you might find that when you have young children you’re best visiting a local, smaller venue. Local water parks Alongside the bigger water parks mentioned above you’ll also find smaller versions dotted around Spain’s towns and cities. These vary in size from those offering similar rides and thrills to the big boys, to those that are more or less large swimming pools with a few additional attractions. If you’re not too keen on thrill rides then this might just be enough to satisfy those of you wanting a day out, particularly if younger children are involved who are as happy with a small pond as with a multi-attraction setting.
out and perfect for a picnic. Get there early to bagsy your spot on the hill where you can overlook the comings and goings of your clan. https://www.aquaparkrojales. es/atracciones-2/ No pool? Where to take a dip The sea doesn’t suit everyone. But when the temperature’s rising, being near water is a must. If you don’t have the luxury of your own pool or community pool then there is often a local one that you can use for just a few euros. These might be linked to a bar or restaurant but if you live close you might also be able to ‘pass out’ and return home for something to eat. At the weekend there might be a barbecue arranged and it can be an enjoyable and relaxing way to swim off the extra calories you’ve eaten – once it’s a little digested of course. Public sports centres will usually have an indoor pool and many also have an outdoor pool that you can pay to use in the summer. This can be particularly useful if you want to make a regular swim part of your summertime healthy living routine. They’re not perhaps as appropriate for a family splash around. Sometimes you’ll find that a golf club or other members-only venue will have a swimming pool as part of the offer. This can be perfect if you just want a dip and to refresh after a game of tennis or golf. General advice
You might not have chance to try the bone shakers that you can experience in Benidorm but staying more local means your home in good time to rest at the end of an active day.
Whichever type of venue you go for there are some general words of warning to share. It’s common sense, but Spain is hot in the summer and when you’re in and out of water it’s the perfect time to scorch.
Some of these parks will be strict on food – particularly if they are based alongside a restaurant. Dining there will be expected as part of the payment for using their facilities. Others will welcome you bringing a picnic and this obviously keeps the cost down if there are a few of you.
Make sure that children are liberally covered with high factor suntan lotion at the beginning of the day before you lose track of them. Trying to catch up with your teenager with the factor 50 when they’re somewhere in Aqualandia is not an easy matter.
If you’re local to Torrevieja then Aquapolis features some pretty scary water rides with plenty of green areas for a picnic. Perhaps not as big as Aqualandia in Benidorm but it provides most of the fun water experiences that the average person is prepared to try. https://torrevieja.aquopolis.es/?lang=en
Be careful with possessions. Most of the larger water parks and even some smaller ones will have lockers where you pay to leave your valuables. Use them or make sure there is someone who will act as the named towel hugger. You might also want to leave your jewellery at home. Some of the parks have strict rules about necklaces and earrings on some of the rides. Best to avoid this as a problem if possible. If you choose a venue which allows you to
A smaller park can be found in Quesada, close to Torrevieja. There is less in the way of ‘thrill’ rides here but it’s a good family day
- Where to gothe fortemptation a splash and thrill –bite water parks in Spain 08 -14 Spanish tapas, in aa single
Discovering Spain
take a picnic this can seriously save on the overall cost of your day out. Buying food in many of these venues is expensive and you are restricted in your choice. In the summer, queues can be long and quality is variable. If you do opt for a picnic find out whether glass bottles are allowed in the park. Some places will check your bags on entry. Be sure to establish what the policy is to avoid having your carefully prepared fresh fruit juice confiscated. Like many venues, water parks have not had an easy time of it lately and as such, there are many concessions, group tickets and reductions available. Check these out online before turning up at the turn style to discover you could have got in for a fraction of the price. The great thing about water parks and water rides in Spain is that during the summer you’ll be dry in a jiffy. Prepare carefully, pack your picnic, spread on the lotion and enjoy your day out.
El ingenioso hidalgo Don Quijote de la Mancha. The story behind Don Quijote - 15
Sponsored Article
VegaFibra (SomosFibra Group), leader in the telecommunications sector of the Spanish east coast, continues growing expanding with new and modern offices and shops, as well as the incorporation of new projects and services.
team of about 200 professionals with great experience in the Telecommunications area, a team that is constantly developing training and growth to be able to offer customers the best service in a sector so competitive as Telecommunications. During the first half of 2020, the growth targets set by the Group were overpassed by far covering more than 250,000 new homes with Fiber Optic. The new shops and commercial team have made possible so far in 2021 more than 22,000 new Fibre Optic customers and 20,000 mobile line customers have been added.
Leader in the telecommunications sector of the Spanish east coast In the last year, the VegaFibra (SomosFibra group) have opened stores in Catral, Crevillente, Torrevieja, Almoradí and in the La Marina urbanization San Fulgencio. They will give commercial support to the new fibre network deployed in these towns that will provide service to more than 130,000 homes, in addition to the current 700,000 already working in Alicante, Murcia and Valencia. The offices based in Benejuzar, San Miguel de Salinas, Albatera, Cox, Abanilla, Bigastro, Algorfa and Montesinos have just been refurbished to a high standard, with modern and technological terms which the Group consolidates a commercial network with 32 sale points. VegaFibra (SomosFibra Group), integrates several trades that, depending on the geographical area, operate with different brands (VEGA FIBRA, FLEXA NETWORKS, GO FIBRA, TELECOLOR, FIBRA VALENCIA), have just inaugurated their central office in La Zenia urbanization of Orihuela Costa. It is a modern building with more than 1,400 square meters that integrates the group’s management, administration, commercial, research and technical departments, as well as new technological development.
Thanks to the agreements with Finetwork giving Vodafone network coverage and Aire Networks for Movistar network coverage, Vega Fibra(SomosFibra Group) has more than 78,000 Fibre Optic customers and nearly 50,000 mobile lines. Strategic Alliances The VegaFibra (SomosFibra Group) has made strategic alliances with leading companies in the telecommunications sector in the Region of Murcia and Almería, FIBRANET TELECOMUNICACIONES, S.L. As well developed new projects, such as incorporate a new strategic partner to the group, to grow in the area of Elche, Torrellano, San Vicente, San Juan, Alicante, La Vila and Benidorm. With these agreements, the VegaFibra (SomosFibra Group) expands the coverage of its services, having presence in Almería, Murcia, Alicante and Valencia, consolidating the team with the 30 million plus euros invested in 2019 and 2020. Vegafibra TV
Grupo VegaFibra (SomosFibra) has another ambitious project, the regional VegaFibraTV channel, expanding their historic local channels coverage as Benejuzar, Cox, Dolores and San Miguel to the entire Vega The Group has a technical and commercial Baja area in order to promote the culture and lifestyle of the Region, covering events, news, sports and festivities. Trusting a highly qualified group of professionals with large experience in the audiovisual sector. Alarms and Security Systems The TOP of the 2020 projects has been the addition of the PRIVATE SECURITY alarm systems into the portfolio services. Cooperating with PROTEMAX and a great team of professionals, we expect offering the client a comprehensive solution for the client’s needs in Fiber Optic, landline, Mobile telephone, Television and now an advanced security alarm solutions.
Leader in the telecommunications sector of the Spanish east coast - 17
Discovering Spain
Camping and caravanning in Spain A luxury hotel isn’t everyone’s idea of the perfect holiday. Many people would prefer to spend a little more time with nature and a little less on their budget. With Spain’s beautiful weather, camping and caravanning can be an ideal alternative. But where should you start? If you prefer to follow your own itinerary, move around and please yourself, then exploring Spain from a camp site might be a good alternative for you. There are plenty of versions to choose from. You might be quite happy staying in a tent, pitching somewhere with the most basic of amenities. Alternatively, you might be more of a ‘glamper’ than a ‘camper’ and want some of the benefits of having more luxurious facilities on hand. Many people who move to Spain or have property here, are keen to explore the country. They might prefer to do this in a caravan or campervan, taking more equipment with them such as bicycles, hiking gear and even diving equipment. There are many advantages to carrying your home on your back, being able to role in your awning and pick your next destination at the drop of a hat. In this article we’re going to look at the options you have whatever your style of outdoor living. Tents and tarps Enter ‘camping Spain’ into google and you can access lists of sites around the country where you can pitch your tent or hire one, if you don’t have one of your own. Some of these sites are quite sophisticated with elaborate pools, indoors and outdoors, and sports facilities. They have in-house restaurants, on-site shops and are usually close to areas of natural beauty or beaches.
Alannia Guardamar. Situated in the beautiful town of Guardamar del Segura this campsite offers a perfect compromise between providing your own accommodation and having your needs catered for. Wherever you are on the spectrum of do-it-yourself or have it done for you, you should feel comfortable in this setting: https://alanniaresorts.com/en/resorts/alannia-guardamar For some people, this is hardly camping at all. If you really want to get down with nature, you’ll want a site that offers you less but where you can pitch legally. You can find many more modest sites than the one above which have at least running water, some shade and a toilet block. Many also have a swimming pool and some catering available too. Different prices will be apply depending on the season, size and location of pitch required. You can expect to have pitches with shade available and room for parking too. It really is advisable to seek somewhere with shade in the summer months. The heat can be exhausting and you can find it difficult to find anywhere to cool down. Prices vary, but there are some very good value overnight stays for as little as 20€. High season usually includes the Easter period as well as the summer months of June, July, August and September. Not that you often have to do it in Spain, but please don’t light a fire. Wild fires during the summer are not uncommon and can be absolutely devastating for fauna, wildlife and occasionally the firefighters themselves. You might think you’ve put it out or that you can control it but you wouldn’t believe how quickly a fire can spread when fuelled by dried bushes and grasses.
For these reasons campsites do not usually allow fires or barbeques. With this in mind you might want to bring a camping stove with you if you’re keen to do your own selfcatering. Either that or you could always buy local green produce and prepare your own salads and sandwiches. A healthy alternative too.
One such, that is close to home, is that of
Although many camping sites have a range of equipment available many do not provide tables and chairs. You should make sure you bring your own basic seating and eating requirements or you might find yourself eating on the ground. From your campsite you can ex-
18 - Camping and caravanning in Spain
Discovering Spain
pect fresh water, electric hook-ups, empty waste tanks, hot showers and washdown facilities. There might also be a small shop. You should plan to bring with you: • Your tent • Sleeping bags or silk liner • A collapsible cooler • Cutlery and ‘openers’ for beer and wine • Clothing for the weather – warm socks in winter and flip flops in summer • Plastic glasses and plates • A collapsible cutting board – to make tho se salads and perhaps for cheese and ham • Laundry line to dry clothing and towels • A tarp – for extra room and shade • Cleaning products for your clothes, was hing up and personal hygiene • Plastic containers to store food • Lighting for in your tent As mentioned previously, you may also need a small fold away table and stools if these aren’t provided by the campsite. Now, if you prefer to be a little more home from home you might opt to spend your evenings in your very own campervan, motorhome or caravan. By motorhome Travelling around Spain in a caravan, campervan or motorhome can be a really good way of exploring the country. This year, this form of holidaying has been even more popular than ever with the attraction that it allows you to stay more or less independent without the risks of coming into contact with large groups of people. You’ll see many such vehicles parked outside small properties in Spain. Rather than invest in a huge home in one location it’s a way of splitting your money and using it to best effect. Motorhomes are expensive – with an average price tag of €55,000. If this is beyond your budget you can try a small camper van or even convert a regular van instead. An alternative if you’re not planning on making this a regular hobby, could be to hire a motorhome when you are out here. However, be warned, there appear to have been some price hikes with some companies asking for between €140 and €200 a day. The advantage to hiring is that you can be sure that your vehicle complies with Spanish traffic laws. You can also then get directly to where you want your journey to begin rather than driving overland first. However, it’s
Camping and caravanning in Spain - 19
Discovering Spain
important to be aware that there are rules around parking up once you are on the tourist trail. You cannot simply stop where you like, put up your awning and set out your tables and chairs. You are only allowed to stay overnight in parking spaces that are designed for motorhomes or at campsites or farms. You can park up, by all means during the day and stop for a spot of light lunch or whatever takes your fancy. However, turning this stop into a pitch is not officially allowed, although some people do take the risk and some get away with it. Much better to stay legal. It is estimated that there are around 1,000 official sites in Spain where you can park up and relax. As with camping, many of these sites, offer a range of facilities – some can be quite luxurious. It’s down to what your preferences are and how much you are willing to spend. You can also find overnight stopping places called Areas de Servicio which can allow you to break your journey if you are planning on travelling a long distance. Be aware that the use of gas cylinders is quite tightly controlled in Spain and that you’re not allowed to fill foreign ones. You will need to buy gas cylinders whilst you are out here if you are starting your journey from another country. If you are anticipating making long journeys using motorways make sure you factor into your budget the cost of tolls.
‘pitch’ then you should try and arrive before 4.00pm if you haven’t made a prior reservation. In the summer it is risky to turn up late and expect there still to be a pitch available. Follow the rules. Yes, you will hear stories of people who have wild camped for years and never had a problem. You will see camper vans parked in the same location with chairs and tables under an awning. Just be warned, not every case will be picked up on, but if you are you could find yourself with a fine and a flea in your ear that spoils the whole occasion. It’s not that expensive to park up and pay for a plot. Off the beaten track. We always encourage our readers to occasionally turn inland from the coast and try somewhere a little different. Spain is lush with interesting inland rural areas that are waiting for you to explore. Don’t just be a coast hugger. Checkout the speed limits. These changed in May 2021 so in many city centres and urban roads you can find the speed limit is as low as 20/ 30 km/h. There may not be as many speed cameras as there are in countries such as the UK but they do exist and you don’t want your holiday money frittered away on traffic fines. Checkout your insurance. Whether you are based in Spain or travelling whilst on holiday, check that you are comprehensively insured. If you are a UK resident then you will need a green card to prove that you have motorhome insurance.
If you are new to Spanish roads spend time familiarising yourself with some of the different traffic laws. Particularly important is researching the differences when it comes to exiting and travelling round roundabouts. These can often take foreigners by surprise. Of course, you must check that your caravan and tow vehicle meet the requirements for driving in Spain.
Take sensible precautions. Make sure that your caravan or campervan is secure when you leave it or even when you’re sat a short distance away. There can be opportunists looking for a vacant vehicle and a supply of credit cards. With tents, of course, take your valuables with you or leave them somewhere in a secure place until you are ready to collect them again. Don’t risk it.
Some general pointers
Do your research whichever camping site you choose make sure that you know what the rules are – particularly, for example, if you wish to bring your dog. Does your site have a cash machine? Is there any lighting at night? Are basic items such as toilet roll provided? The answers to these questions will vary between sites and can make a big difference to the success of your holiday.
Pick your time of year carefully. If you’re not confined by school holidays then avoid these times at all costs. August is hectic holiday-wise in Spain. The heat of the month and Spanish tradition means that many take the break when the thermometers are at their highest and find somewhere nice and cool to hang out. August, unless you have no option, really isn’t the best month to explore. If you do choose the winter months to travel in, remember that Spain gets cold too. Do your research and pack some woollies. Arrival times. Whatever your form of transport and shelter might be, if you need to
20 - Camping and caravanning in Spain
A few days, a couple of weeks or a month or more in the outdoors is probably just what you’re needing and Spain couldn’t be a better place to explore.
Spanish food
If you have property in Spain then there’s no doubt that you’ve spent some evenings entertaining. Whether it’s a barbecue, a visit to a restaurant or a light lunch – how can you show your friends the best that Spanish cuisine has to offer?
peas or even chorizo, it won’t be the end of the world. A seafood paella, in particular, can look incredibly impressive if you decorate it with a few large langostinos. Remember not to stir the rice if you don’t want a mushy mess and allow it to cool a little before serving up.
Dining with friends – Spanish style We all know that a traditional meal from your home country goes down well on the odd occasion. However, we are hoping that when your visitors come to stay you are keen to serve up something Spanish and when dining out it’s not just a Sunday roast you’re after. One of the reasons people buy property abroad is to enjoy the benefits of a different culture and climate. Many people opt for blending or ‘fusing’ together the best of their own and new traditions. Trying new recipes, created with local ingredients, is an exciting prospect and when visitors come to stay you want to show off your new knowledge by entertaining them, Spanish style. Be brave! Cook it yourself We may be talking to the already fully initiated in Spanish cooking and dining. Some of you, however, might have found yourselves reverting to tradition and type. Welcoming visitors is a time to relive your first culinary attempts at Spanish cooking and search out that paella pan. Paella really is the most brilliant dish for catering for any number of people. What better way of saving on the washing up than just cooking everything in one pan! It’s a pretty delicious and wholesome meal too that you can adjust according to the meat/ fish/ vegetable preferences of your guests. Don’t worry too much about being entirely authentic. Your guests are unlikely to know the difference (unless their Spanish of course!) and even if you do throw in a few
Eating at home means that you can cater for even the pickiest eater. A Spanish barra de pan can be absolutely beautiful served with an alioli dip and if your guests like cheese and ham then you can easily impress them with a plateful of the best serrano ham and manchega cheese. Why not take them out?
If you’ve decided that you’d rather take them to a restaurant than having any pans to wash at all, then search out some Spanish neighbours for recommendations. It’s not always the fancy looking venues that present the tastiest meals and they are likely to be the most expensive. Ask where they prefer to go for a special meal and your neighbours are more than likely to have a few suggestions. Don’t worry too much about the range on the menu. It’s true that seafood and fish usually has a more prominent place than we might find in many other country’s restaurants but they will not be exclusive. The Spanish love their meat dishes too! What can require a little more thought is if you have a vegetarian or vegan visitor. Major Spanish towns are now well versed on catering for this group, and you should be able to find some in competition. However, if you are based in a smaller pueblo this might not be an option – although many restaurants will be happy to put something on the menu for you if you give them some notice. If you are wanting a paella but aren’t interested in cooking it yourself then most traditional Spanish restaurants will oblige. However, be sure to check whether this dish needs to be ordered beforehand – you might also have to wait a little whilst it’s prepared – so warn your non-paella eaters that they may have to wait too.
In some cases you might be surprised to find that your meat or fish does not have the same number of vegetable accompaniments as you might think. The Spanish tend to supplement their main dish with a salad rather than lots of vegetables and you will find many different versions that you can have to share in the middle of the table. A visit to Spain cannot be complete without an introduction to tapas. This really is such a perfect way of trying a number of different dishes and allows you to move between bars. Many districts now have special
Dining with friends – Spanish style - 21
Spanish food
weekends when they offer a ‘tapas route’. If your visitors coincide with one of these it really is an excellent evening out. If they are on a tight budget then the traditional menu del día may be perfect for them. They can’t but fail to be impressed with two or three courses for 10 euros plus a drink. Most restaurants, including the fancy ones, will have a menu you can choose from – so ask, if you can’t see it displayed. Get the timing right What’s very important, depending on the mood of your party, is to pick your times carefully. It depends on the country, but many northern Europeans, for example, tend to eat earlier than those in south. So, if your visitors are used to going for lunch at 1.00 pm and having dinner at 7.00 pm then you may need to gradually introduce them to later eating. If they want to dine like a Spaniard then you should reserve your table for 3.00 pm or 9.00 pm. Prepare them for a noisy experience! Spanish people like to talk and it’s not usually in a whisper. A Spanish restaurant at peak times will certainly be issuing some decibels – a great way of soaking in the true Spanish spirit but not if you’re wanting an intimate dinner for two or a serious discussion. Everyone welcome At peak Spanish eating times you can expect the restaurant to be noisy and you can also expect them to have brought the whole family. Babysitters are almost unheard of in Spain. Where the adults go, by and large, the children go too. So, again, if you’re wanting a romantic evening meal pick your restaurant carefully or just cook at home. The plus side is that if your visitors have children, there’s no extra expense in going out – you can all dine out together and stay up late without people looking at you oddly. You never know, they might find some other children to play with or fall asleep before you get home. Something to remember We’ve only touched on the surface of the possibilities for dining with your visitors in Spain. We could continue and talk about barbecues, pollo asado (roast chicken) or the many international restaurants there are here. Suffice to say that by the time your visitors return to their home country they’ll feel excited to spread the word and keen to make a return visit.
- Dining with the friends – Spanish 08 -22 Spanish tapas, temptation in astyle single bite
Spanish food
Dining with friends – Spanish style - 23
W
hen you visit Spain you can’t help but be blown away by the extensive choice of wines that you find on the supermarket shelves. But, if you’re looking for the perfect wine to match your taste and mood – where should you begin? We’d like to introduce you (if you don’t know them already) to the vineyards of Rodríguez de Vera and in particular to the very special wines known as ‘Sopla Levante’. Grown in the vineyards of the Valencian Community, the grapes to produce this wine are carefully nurtured and harvested in a traditional way in the Natural Park of La Mata, Alicante. This wine is not mass produced, nor is it churned out for the supermarket shelves. Let’s tell you more about it.
24 - Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world
Spanish wineries
The Natural Park of La Mata is a very special place. Caught between the two natural lakes of Torrevieja and La Mata, the cool shelter of its pine trees and its protected status make it an ideal place for wildlife and for those who enjoy a
La Horca La Horca is made from the Merseguera grape along with 16 other varieties. Four months in the barrel, this clear white wine has a slightly lemony appearance and is dry to the taste with flavours reminiscent of aromatic herbs and citrus. A total of 3,500 bottles are produced each year and it has been recognised for a James Suckling award of 92 points.
Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world natural landscape. Perhaps what’s most surprising is that this very special area is on the doorstep of some of the most built-up tourist areas in Alicante. And yet, stepping from La Siesta or La Mata roundabout into this quiet sanctuary, you would never guess that. Nor would you guess that this location is also home to one of the oldest and most venerated vineyards in Spain. In ancient times 250 hectares of land was given over to wine production in this spot. Now it’s reduced to 35 but the good news is that the future of this industry is now protected by the determination and dedication of four friends. Pepe Rodríguez de Vera, Hilarión Pedauyé, Álvaro Ruiz and Alberto Soriano have joined together to ensure that the Valencian Community does not lose this special vineyard. Because there is something quite unique about the flavour of the wine produced here. Grown in adversity, the saline conditions of the soil mean that Sopla Levante wines have a quite distinct personality. Already there are six different varieties available from the vineyard and there are plans to extend the selection further. New plots of Monsatrell, Cariñena and Valenci Negre are being included in a work that is a labour of love more than a profitmaking concern. If you want to check out the variety of grape and how the wine is produced – visit their website https:// rodriguezdevera.com/en/sopla-levante/ . There, they also share with you the various awards and recommendations that their wines have received.
Blanco Also from the Merseguera grape is Sopla Levante Blanco. A dry, white wine, with a pleasant citric flavour, it has been awarded 91 points according to the Peñin Guide to wine. Pinomar This dry, white wine is made from the Merseguera and Moscatel grapes which are fermented in their skins in a clay jar. With an alcohol content of 13.50% it has been awarded 93 by James Suckling and continues to be a very popular lemon-tinted wine. La Molineta La Molineta is Sopla Levante’s rosé wine. Less of this wine is produced than some of the other varieties in the Sopla Levante stable. Along with the distinction of being rated 92 by James Suckling it has also been given 91.38 by WineUp. A well-earned accreditation for this delicate wine with a clean and elegant taste. Lomas del Polo Now we move on to the vineyard’s selection of red wines. Lomas del Polo has a small production quota of 300 bottles and has been awarded 90 by James Suckling. Again, a dry wine, it has medium body with hints of red berries and dried fruit. Algayat Finally, we would like to introduce you to the vineyard’s second red wine. This time with an alcohol content of 15% and made from the Monastrell grape. It has a 91,38 recommendation from WineUp and 400 bottles are produced each year.
This is a brief introduction to the current wines of the Sopla Levante, but we hope that you will find out more about them first Now, we’d like to introduce individually this hand by ordering a bottle from their website selection of established and well-received and trying it for yourself. They even have wines. their own ‘Confradía’ wine club you can join where you can access discounts and order one of their special selection of wines as a ‘diamond’, ‘gold’, ‘silver’ or ‘bronze’ member. Whether you are familiar with the Rodríguez de Vera winegrowers or not, you can expect a very special experience when you enjoy one of their beautiful wines from one of their handpicked vineyards under the Spanish sun.
Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world - 25
Leisure and fun
Where to take the children and grandchildren Maybe we are being a little too optimistic too soon, but it does look as though the remainder of this year and into 2022 should provide more opportunities for us to get out and about and meet up with family and friends. So, when the opportunity arises, what can we do with the younger members of the family? Whether they are children or grandchildren, it’s great to have some time to spend together. However, keeping children and young people entertained can be a bit of a challenge, particularly if the weather lets you down. In this article we consider, from our experience, some of the places you can take those younger members of the clan when you need time out from home. Toddlers On a fine spring day you are spoilt for choice in Spain when it comes to parks and beaches. Any time of the day will do, and your toddler will be safe to sample the swings, slides and climbing equipment that you’ll find in most Spanish parks. We’d particularly recommend the Reina Sofia park in Guardamar as a place to take your young visitors. In summer you have to pick your times more carefully. Late evening and early morning are the best times to take your toddler to the park or beach with least worry about sunburn. Having said this you are wise to apply a high factor no matter what the time of day. One of the best things about Spain is that children and young people are welcome with you in the evening. You don’t have to fret about putting your toddler to bed at 7.00. It is quite acceptable for them to accompany you to your local bar and res-
taurant and it’s amazing how one bouncy ball slot machine can keep your toddler entertained for hours. Eight to teens We’d thoroughly recommend a crazy golf experience for this age range. Torrevieja hosts one of the best crazy golf venues we’ve come across and you can move leisurely round this quirky course with a salt industry theme: Mini Golf Las Salinas de Torrevieja Afterwards you can enjoy a cheap meal here and then move on to the beach, Parque de las Naciones or the Paseo Vista Alegre. If you want to be a little more adventurous there are some golf clubs that have driving ranges where they are OK to host children. You just have to keep out of reach of the swing and watch as they work themselves through the balls. You might also find some venues where younger members of the family can play table tennis, a game of football or basketball. There are pitches available dotted around the town – although you will need to check the condition of some of these. If you have bicycles then you can take advantage of some of the numerous bike paths in Spain. You may also be lucky enough to have a skate park within travelling distance. Whether it’s roller-skating, skateboarding or inline skating, this age group can enjoy bruising their knees whilst trying to show off their tricks. Teens
The teen years can be quite tricky. You’re not the coolest people to be with whether you are a parent or a grandparent and they are busy forging their own way ahead in the manner they see fit. However, they will usually be quite happy to have a lift somewhere where they can meet up with their friends. Of course, the beach is the perfect choice for this. The shopping centre can be another good choice – although gender does seem to play a part here. With plenty of fast food restaurants and places to ‘hang out’ they are likely to be able to spend a reasonable
26 - Where to take the children and grandchildren
amount of time with a limited budget. For a special occasion we’d really recommend go-karting or bowling. There is usually at least one of these facilities in every town or city and the competitive element can be particularly attractive to some groups. If your young person doesn’t have friends with them then you might just have to make the race track or bowling alley a family affair. During poorer weather cinemas are another alternative and there are sometimes films shown at specific times in English. In these locations there might be ‘ocio’ (leisure) areas with a number of different video machines and games that can occupy your young people for an hour or two. Something for everyone Of course, the beach is the first option. Nearly every age group will find something to enjoy there whether it’s building sandcastles, burying dad or enjoying a cocktail from a chiringuito. Many of the more popular beaches also have water sports available including banana boats, paddle boats and sometimes inflatables out in the shallow water. If you don’t fancy getting sandy most urbanisations have either a community pool or a private pool that you can pay a small amount to access. They will usually include a children’s pool and may have a few other attractions on offer. Darts, pool and table football are available in some places. Many larger towns and cities will have a fair of some kind. Although some of these only have the smallest rides suitable for younger children, others, such as that in Torrevieja, have a mixture which means you can split up and meet later. Older members of the family can enjoy some thrill-seeking rides whilst you indulge the youngest with hooka-duck, a session on a trampoline or a miniride. You can stroll along a paseo (promenade) in town and the whole family can find something of interest. There is often some type of street entertainment during the warmer months and if you are lucky enough to be out during a fiesta then there is plenty to look at and entertain even your teenage members of the family. Over the past year we’ve all missed out on the opportunity to spend time together and enjoy our surroundings. Now is the time to catch up and make the most of the great variety of entertainment that you can find in Spain.
Where to take the children and grandchildren - 27
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Lara Cars Car hire that you can trust and a transparent service. In this article we hear more about what they have to offer and how they’re keeping staff and customers safe. Lara Cars is a family business that’s dedicated itself for many years to delivering a personalised car rental service. Established in 1989, we focus on the needs of our clients during their holidays in the Costa Blanca and Murcia regions. There are two very important aspects to this. Firstly, that we have a wide and varied fleet of waiting vehicles and secondly our working day-today ethics. Our guiding principles include those of honesty and transparency and we make sure that our clients understand our terms and conditions and that there are no hidden surprises or extras. We are a highly professional team who dedicate themselves to providing the quality service our clients deserve. The Lara Cars team consists of professionals of different nationalities with great experience in the sector. For more than 30 years we have addressed any worries that clients, from over 60 different countries, might have. During this time we have listened to their requests and preferences and we pride ourselves on offering a service that goes beyond that of other car rental businesses. We know, for example, how important car insurance, mileage allowance and credit card deposits are for people looking to hire a car. These parts of the rental process can cause concern but we offer a refreshing alternative to our customers. All our rentals comprise full insurance without excess, unlimited mileage and we never take a credit
Most of our customers have been renting from us for many years. Some for more than 20 years. They’ve continued to come to us as their trusted car rental business for short or long-stay holidays. For us, this is the greatest endorsement of our service – satisfied clients who return again and again whilst enjoying the Costa Blanca and Murcia. Our customers also recommend us to family and friends across the years. Their loyalty reflects our commitment to them. At Lara Cars we speak directly to our customers. There’s no middle man just a personal service that can tweak the offer when needed. This means that if there is a problem it can quickly be resolved. For example, our emergency service is available outside normal office hours. All day, every day, 24x7 we are there to assist you so that you can continue with your holiday, uninterrupted. If there is a sudden change in arrangements we can accommodate you. Don’t worry, we understand and we won’t apply charges in extenuating circumstances. You can use our drop off and pick up service from Alicante-Elche airport car park and also from Alicante train station. From the airport you can collect and return your car quickly and avoid the queues and waiting times of some other operators. We also have two offices where you can be attended to personally. One is in Los Altos urbanisation in Torrevieja and the other is at La Marina in San Fulgencio. In the current climate you can rest assured that we are taking all the necessary hygiene measures and have done so since the beginning of the pandemic. Following the advice of the health authorities we have adopted methods of ensuring that our customers and staff are protected. The measures we take have been recognised with the FENEVAL quality assurance guarantee ‘Espacio protegido COVID-19’ (premises protected from COVID-19). To receive this certificate we were inspected by TÜV SÜD as part of an external audit.
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Lara Cars - Car hire that you can trust - 29
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Situated in the heart of Torrevieja, you’ll find Habitus – a unique place to dine and relax. You enter our restaurant through what was originally, a traditional fisherman’s home capturing the very essence of Torrevieja.
Our menu is carefully planned to ensure the best dining experience. To begin with you can choose from our selection of cold and hot starters. Why not try one of our specialities – ‘bolitos de queso’ or our carefully selected and prepared artichokes with clams – they are delicious.
Welcome to the flavours and aroma of the Mediterranean. Discover the true essence of Torrevieja What better way to dine than soaking up the ambience of this special restaurant in a popular coastal town. Welcome to the flavours and aroma of the Mediterranean. Every detail is attended to in our carefully created dishes – recognised for their quality and the love that has gone into their preparation. We want your visit to our restaurant to be special from the moment you set foot inside. Our dedicated front of house staff have one goal – to make you feel comfortable. Then our chefs and sous-chefs set to work to create the dishes that will delight you.
When you have finished your meal – there’s no rush. You can relax and unwind on our patio and secluded terrace
Now for the main course. What can we say about our fish? To begin with, you can be assured that it is fresh and that we have selected only the finest to serve on our tables. Alternatively, if you prefer a meat dish we can recommend our T-bone steak. Our spare ribs are mouthwatering and have been cooked at a low temperature – tender and tasty.
And, of course, no meal is complete without its sweet. At Habitus it’s home-made desserts which are our speciality. How about a melted chocolate coulant with maple ice cream and pecan nuts? Or perhaps a creamy caramel dish or an oreo cake? No meal is complete without the wine to accompany it. Sharing a bottle of wine with family or friends is a treat that many of us have missed. We can tempt you with some classics such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero or you can try some locally produced wines specially served at your table. The regions of Valencia, Murcia and Alicante are renowned for their vineyards. Why not try a truly Costa Blanca wine made from Monastrell and Sirah grapes. When you have finished your meal – there’s no rush. You can relax and unwind on our patio and secluded terrace. To a background of gentle music our service of ‘customer first’ continues. And if you have something to celebrate? We have a very special VIP room where you can create those unforgettable moments on your important days. This room is private, air conditioned and you have your own dedicated waiter to make sure that you and your guests are perfectly catered for. You can even choose your own music to dine to. Perfect for birthdays, executive dining, bachelor or hen parties – we will decorate the room for your celebration.
And finally, we’d like to share with you why our restaurant was named ‘Habitus’. It comes from the Latin for ‘attitude’ and having a positive attitude is the foundation for everything that we do. Every member of staff is a crucial and valued member of our team. We all have one ambition – to create for you a delightful evening to remember.
30 - Discover the essence of Torrevieja
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If you need to make international currency transfers working with a company you can trust is key. At Currencies Direct we’re here to help you make simple, secure currency transfers in 2021 and beyond.
rrencies Direct we took steps to ensure a smooth continuation of service regardless of the outcome, offering certainty in trying times. Our company acquired a licence with the Bank of Spain (Banco de Espana) so our customers based in EU and EEA countries would experience no disruption to services.
Moving money to or from Spain in 2021? A year of ups and downs (mainly downs!) It’s safe to say that 2020 was an extremely difficult year for all of us, with considerable disruption to our lives as we adjusted to the coronavirus pandemic. This disruption was clearly reflected in the currency market, with dramatic volatility over the past over the course of the year. The GBP/EUR exchange rate shed almost 15 cents in the span of a single month! Such extreme movements have created issues for people looking to move money to and from Spain. As was the case for most businesses, the coronavirus pandemic meant our team at Currencies Direct had to adjust to rapidly changing circumstances. However, adjust we did and we’re proud that we’ve been able maintain our high level of service throughout the crisis and continue meeting our customers’ currency requirements without disruption. The Brexit factor In terms of the pound, the fourth quarter of 2020 saw the currency touch some of its worst levels since the start of the pandemic against the euro before rebounding, but achieve new multi-year high against the US dollar. This volatility only became more pronounced as 31 December approached without any clear indication of whether the UK and EU would agree upon a trade deal before the Brexit transition period expired. While the lack of certainty over the UK’s post-Brexit relationship with the EU made planning for the future difficult, at Cu-
Under this licence we’re able to continue working with customers based in Spain and the wider EU exactly as we always have. This also ensures that our customers can be confident that we’re regulated to the highest standards. Committed to security At Currencies Direct we’re proud to hold a level one credit rating with Dun & Bradstreet, meaning we have the lowest level of risk. Segregated accounts At Currencies Direct we keep your money in segregated accounts*, completely separate to the funds we use to run our business. Award-winning service We feel that customer satisfaction is a real testament to the dedication of our teams and the level of service they provide, so our five-star ‘Excellent’ Trustscore on Trustpilot is really important to us. We’ve also won a number of awards over the years, including the 2020 MoneyAge Money Transfer Provider of the Year award. After a year like 2020, who know what 2021 has in store for us! However, if you need to move money to or from Spain in the year ahead our expert team at Currencies Direct are more than ready for whatever comes our way. As always, using our services means you’ll also benefit from excellent exchange rates, no transfer fees and flexible transfer solutions. At Currencies Direct we’re here to talk currency whenever you need us, so get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your currency transfers.
Since 1996 we’ve helped more than 325,000 customers with their currency transfers. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more. *Currencies Direct’s bank providers do not monitor the funds they place on safeguarding accounts or how they operate these accounts. It is their responsibility to segregate funds.
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How many islands can you name in the Mediterranean Sea? Chances are you know of Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca – perhaps Formentera too? Barcoaventura would like to introduce you to the known and less wellknown secrets of the Pityusic Islands.
To approach one of these islands by boat is to see it as those first captains of the sea would have seen them. In many cases, little has changed. You can still approach some of these islands in such a way that the evidence of tourism is minimal and you can feel that you are discovering them for the very first time.
Explore the islands by boat You may never have heard of the Pityusic Islands but may well have visited at least one of them. This is the name given to the islands of the Mediterranean Sea. The word ‘pityá’ is actually a Greek word that means pine tree and is thought to date back to the time of Ancient Greece. Perhaps the most well-known of these islands is Ibiza, but the neighbouring island of Formentera is also on the ‘to visit’ list of many people. It’s not surprising either as its water and sand is likened to coastline in the Bahamas. Crystal clear water, clean, white sand – it’s a paradise that you’ll want to return to again and again. Of a similarly transparent blue and a treasure trove for divers and snorkellers, is Tabarca island. Just a short journey from Torrevieja, you can visit the island as part of a day trip or you can stay over in a boutique hotel if you prefer. Either way you’ll find a vacant cove, even at the height of the summer season. Another hidden secret of the Valencian Community are the Islas Columbretes which are considered to be an outstanding area of beauty protected as part of a natural park. They are volcanic islands and form one of the largest marine reserves n Spain. Visits to the islands are tightly controlled but there are opportunities to swim in its clear waters. But it’s impossible to fully introduce you to the delights and variety of the islands of the Mediterranean on paper. They have to be seen to be believed, and we believe the best way to reach them is by boat. The history, geography and pulse of these little islands is founded in their relationship with the sea. Long before people were flying, these islands were part of the regular route of seafarers, and sometimes pirates. Tabarca in particular, has a history of buccaneers and brigands and you can still see the evidence of this.
Of course, once you land there are plenty of opportunities to also enjoy the luxuries of the 21st century. You are not expected to catch your own fish, of course. Although you can if you want to. All the larger islands benefit from excellent seafood and fish restaurants and, the pleasures of Ibiza do not need to be repeated here. Some lucky people have their own boats or even supersized yachts from which they navigate around the islands. It is not uncommon to see a ‘listed’ yacht shored up just off the coast of Formentera. However, even their riches cannot buy exclusive rights to these beautiful shores and the coastline is accessible to everyone. If you’re looking for something special and want to explore by boat, Barcoaventura can provide your very own customised access to these islands and beyond. You don’t need to be a multimillionaire to benefit from your own crew who can take you and your party (big or small) to one of these very special locations. Barcoaventura was established in 2012 as a means of introducing people to the Pityusic Islands in the way that they should be approached – from the sea. We were already familiar with the uniqueness of each island – its people, its food and its special customs. Now we wanted to bring people there by boat. We organise all kinds of nautical events, routes and crossings to the islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formantera, Tabarca and Columbretes. Our main base is in Torrevieja but we can set sail from other ports such as Denia and are happy to tailor our pick up and drop off points according to your preferences. We’re planning crossings now to the Greek Islands, Croatia, Sardinia, the Norwegian Fjords, Brazil and even Bali.
Each trip is an adventure and we can show you the most secret coves, spectacular sunsets and amazing marine fauna. We can take you diving in crystal clear waters or to practice more rigorous nautical sports if you prefer. We can provide music and mojitos for those who want to party, or a more relaxing and layed-back trip if you wish to disconnect. Not sure if we can accommodate your needs? Just ask. We provide exclusive and personalised attention, matching your ambitions and interests to the vast and varied resources of these truly beautiful islands.
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We make your dreams come true!
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LA FINCA RESORT A PARADISE ON THE COSTA BLANCA La Finca Resort is an irresistible invitation to enjoy your time and reconnect with your essence. A privileged space that faithfully represents Mediterranean identity with a five-star hotel, three of the best golf courses in Spain, spa, gym, tennis and paddle courts, and several restaurants to delight the most demanding palates. A dream environment where to rest and rejuvenate.
lafincaresort.com · Alicante ·
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La Finca Resort solidifies position as leading Spanish golf and gastronomy resort with double award win Luxury Spanish destination, La Finca Resort, has fought off its opposition to cap another year in style, being recognised as “Spain’s Leading Sports Resort” by the World Travel Awards and “Spain’s Best Golf Hotel” by the World Golf Awards for the second consecutive year. After claiming a double victory in 2019, the resort embarked on a multi-million Euro
Spain’s Leading Sports Resort by the World Travel Awards and Spain’s Best Golf Hotel by the World Golf Awards
renovation project which saw the golf courses and gastronomic offerings undergo major redevelopments. Often considered the Oscars of golf, these awards were created to recognise and highlight excellence within the golf tourism world. General Manager of La Finca Resort, Brendan Dwyer said: It is an honour to be recognised with these prestigious awards for the second year in a row. This achievement pays testament to the incredible work that has taken place at the resort over the last 18 months and the hard work that has been put in by all staff members. “We are extremely pleased with the results of our redevelopment. Since completion, the venue has moved from strength to strength and we are constantly striving towards improvement to solidify La Finca Resort’s position at the forefront of golf and gastronomic excellence in Spain.”
The venue has been a regular haven for golf enthusiasts due to its three prestigious golf courses, La Finca, Villamartin and Las Ramblas. All three layouts have undergone extensive enhancements in recent months with a number of green complexes relayed, a large-scale bunker renovation and the restoration of the 16th hole on the La Finca course. The five-star La Finca Hotel boasts 120 guest rooms, 40 of which have been recently renovated to ‘club level’ which entails a contemporary and sophisticated design. Also new is an exclusive hotel bar and terrace which will offer guests a leisurely environment to relax and dine throughout the day. Known for its gastronomical prowess, La Finca Resort has supplemented its dining offering with a signature paella and brasserie restaurant as well as a new Mexican and Italian fusion restaurant. The all-new La Finca Bodega Winery is ideal for group or individual wine tastings, offering up the very best local and international wines.
The hotel facilities include La Finca Spa as well as a brand-new sports complex which combines nutrition, sports and well-being. There has also been a renovation of the resort’s tennis and paddle areas which was key in cementing La Finca’s position as the leading Spanish sports resort.
La Finca Resort solidifies position as leading Spanish golf - 37
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Torrevieja is your home, Quirónsalud is your health’s Torrevieja is your home, and home is where we must feel more cared for and protected. That is why at Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja, our multidisciplinary team of professionals strive to care for you and your family members health 24 hours a day. • Care provided in your own language • Emergencies with no waiting • International medical team • Major medical specialities • Ambulance service With the security of being treated at the largest hospital group in Spain.
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