ÁbacoClub Magazine - Issue 9

SPECIAL OFFER ÁBACOCLUB MEMBERS

By being a ÁbacoClub and Mapfre client you can enjoy the best conditions to acquire the SECURITAS DIRECT Alarm.

· Sentinel anti-jamming system with ambient quality control

· Control Panel with talk-listen module

· 2 Photo Detectors with image verification

· 1 Magnetic shock sensor with early detection

· 1 Intelligent key Reader

· 6 Encrypted keys

· 1 High power siren

· External deterrents

This equipment is totally wireless and does not require any type of pre-installation or work to be installed. The installation is done in a completely customized way to adjust to your needs of Safety and Comfort, at the same time that you will know how to use and make the most of your alarm from the first day.

Two options to choose from:

OPTION

0€ to the installation plus 36 payments of 12,10€ (10€/month+VAT)

The monthly fee of the equipment offered is 39,93€ (33€/month+VAT) and includes connection to CRA, communications, and full maintenance of the system. Hiring with commitment of permanence of 24 months (36 in deferred option). It is possible to make extensions of the equipment offered at the time of installation. Such extensions would not be included in the Offer and would be paid directly to the Securitas Direct Specialist.

Take

advantage of this

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.

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 09 - March 2024

magazine@abacoclub.es www.abacoclub.es

0625

ÁbacoClub – Welcome!

08

Valle del Jerte - Cherry blossoms in bloom

Saving money when transferring your pension to Spain

Spoilt for choice Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa

1429

Festivals and popular fiestas on the Costa Blanca

A Golfer’s Paradise

1730

Renewable energy Spain at the forefront!

Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world

1834

Preparing for a happy and healthy retirement in Spain

Discover the true essence of Torrevieja

2236

Quirónsalud Types of dementia in older people

Explore the islands by boat

Market guide of Torrevieja and surroundings

How time flies, and here we are again with information about our activities over the

ideas and recipes to take home and try in the months to come.

ÁbacoClub wining, dining and slicing

autumn and winter season. It’s always a pleasure to meet up with clients in person, and we hope that if you haven’t had oppor- tunity yet and are an Ábaco client, that we will meet you some time soon. For now, here’s our update.

ÁbacoClub is a very special community of Ábaco customers that continues to organise free events for its members so they can get together, find out more about Spain and enjoy each other’s company. We’re delighted to take this opportunity to fill you in on what’s been happening since our last posting.

As anyone knows who has spent time in Spain in August, it’s both boiling and busy. But we decided to brave the heat and venture out for a little wine tasting in La Sacristia Wine Bar in Benijófar. Here it was Mari Angeles who treated us to an explanation of the different grapes you’ll find in Spain and France and how to distinguish them according to their colour, smell and taste. We were delighted to be able to try them too, with a little complementary food, of course.

Enjoying Spanish food and learning about it is often at the centre of ÁbacoClub activities. So, it was with some excitement that we planned our September activity. This wasn’t just about tasting sumptuous dishes but also recognising the health benefits in what we eat. We visited Almoradí and Comerb nutricionista to learn more about the Mediterranean Diet, and, of course, to try some dishes.

This wasn’t just a sit down and eat activity. Aside from finding out about the ingredients we put on our aprons and did some Mediterranean cooking ourselves. How satisfying to then sample our dishes and wash it down with some very special wine from La Mata Vineyards (Sopla Levante). Our host on this occasion was Rafa, and he gave us

Prior to Christmas you might notice the prevalence of hams or ‘jamón’ in local bars and supermarkets. It’s a Spanish favourite and with good reason. The quality of the ham is dependent on the breed of pig, how and where it forages and how it is cured. It’s an art form and one that brings with it its own range of specialist breeders, distributors and, of course, the cutters. One of these is Esperanza Martinez, Master Ham Cutter, and in November she treated club members to an explanation of what goes into the finest Spanish ‘jamón ibérico’ and the techniques involved in slicing it. Of course, no event such as this could pass without the audience having chance to sample the meat itself - it truly did live up to expectations!

Finally, in December 2023 it was time for our Christmas Brunch at Makai Café. This is one of our favourite venues and we were delighted to make a return visit. This has now become an annual event and it provides us with the opportunity to meet up and exchange season’s greetings.

This year we decided to add an extra twist to our event and asked everyone to bring a small gift or trinket that they could exchange. After all, Christmas isn’t Christmas without something to unwrap! We were delighted with the results that brought a smile to everyone’s faces and gave us all something to take home as a keepsake. The weather didn’t disappoint either as it was a beautiful, crisp but sunny December day and perfect for enjoying Makai’s delicious options of Mexican Pork and Vegetarian Fun Guy. We all tucked in and no doubt we’ll be returning next year too.

And so, into 2024 We are busy seeking out and organising fresh opportunities to get together. We’ll keep you posted on our webpage and in Facebook. If you’re an Ábaco client, you’ll find invitation updates in your Ábacoonline account. Don’t miss out!

This is a special year for us, not only at ÁbacoClub but at Ábaco in general. On 8th October it will be 25 years since Ábaco first began to help house hunters purchase their properties on the Costa Blanca. Our company began with five employees and although it has grown, we pride ourselves on our customer care and attention to detail. Buying a property in Spain, whether as a holiday home or to live, is a huge financial and emotional investment. We are delighted to have spent 25 years helping you to secure and enjoy your ideal Spanish property. Here’s to the next 25!

Imagine, it’s springtime and all you can see for miles around is a blanket of cherry blossom. With each season comes a different picture and a different mood - from the warm colours of the autumn to the spectacular vibrancy of the summer. The Valle del Jerte can be another part of your adventure in Spain. Tell your family and friends about this hidden gem and perhaps even treat them to a visit too. After all, this is somewhere that you can enjoy over and over again and whichever season it happens to be. Now, let’s find out more…

The Jerte Valley can be described as perhaps the most naturally spectacular part of the region of Extremadura. It is a mountainous area which owes its name to the Jerte River which has carved out the unique

Valle del Jerte Cherry blossoms in bloom

landscape that plays host to more than a million cherry trees.

So, let’s turn our attention to the landscape, as it is this which makes the valley so spectacular. Water is a key feature with gorges full of the crystalline stuff and a multitude of rivers, highs, lows and shady points. The flora and fauna of this valley have the luxury of choosing such a variety of nooks and crannies to emerge from that it’s no wonder that their colours are so rich and diverse.

Another defining feature are the cherry trees. Watch as the colours in the valley change from white blossom, to green and then red. The harvesting of these and, of course, the eating are prime events during the Jerte Valley calendar.

Above all, you’ll find here the opportunity for calm, tranquility, freedom and a sense of being at one with the world. Below we set out some key events to enjoy and the towns where you can enjoy them, during the autumn, winter, spring and summer of this spectacular valley.

Autumn activities

In the autumn you’ll discover a different atmosphere in the Jerte Valley. The landscape is the same but what strikes you first is the range of colours that leap out at you from its mountains and valleys. Every variety of ochre, red, yellow and green is painted there from November to mid-December. But it’s not just about admiring the landscape. There is a whole range of activities planned here

that mean you will want to prolong your visit. They’ve even named it especially after the season – ‘OTOÑADA’. Every weekend sees something different and represents some of the best of Spanish culture and tradition.

The Leaf Fall Festival

Let’s begin with the Leaf Fall Festival. This reflects the time of year when the local people would traditionally have been preparing for the winter months. This included the slaughter of pigs and to this day, there is a special tradition of tasting the best ´jamon’. Held at the beginning of November, there can be a little chill in the evenings but bright sunshine during the day and sunsets to marvel at.

Pikota Bike Race

This race is not for the faint hearted. The route includes steep climbs and descents and those engaged in the race itself might be forgiven for not having time to take in the spectacular backdrop against which their contest is set.

The first stage of this notable event takes place in the Cabezuela del Valle. This town is renowned for its architecture and is considered to be a historical site of note. The second stage moves on to Navaconcejo which, as you might expect, is well-known for its natural environment. Here you’ll come across the Garganta de las Nogaledas which are impressive waterfalls of more than 20 metres.

Artesan gastronomy

The XVII Jornada Gastronómicas Pastoriles – is a celebration of the shepherding tradition with its origins in these hills and valleys. Every weekend local restaurants serve up delicious dishes that originated with the shepherds who protected their livelihoods on these mountains.

The prices are slightly different from what the average shepherd would have expected to pay – and you can check out their menus on the Valle del Jerte website. Prices for 2023 included menus from 29€ to 43€ and were available from 30th October to 12th December.

Wine tasting

Into December and you can enjoy a wine tasting event sampling the ‘pitarra’ wines donated by the residents of Jerte. This event is held outside so is determined by the weather – but, seeing as we’re in Spain, it’s not often that plans have to be changed.

Celebration of traditional trades

At the beginning of December ‘El Torno’ allows us to watch demonstrations of how traditional trades were carried out in its town. Along with

making traditional sweets and bobbin lace children can see an old-fashioned classroom and taste roasted chestnuts from the Jerte Valley. There are other typical dishes to try and, if you want a little exercise there are organised walks, a pony-drawn cart and you could take part in a little traditional dancing.

7th, 8th and 9th December

Around these dates Spain celebrates its constitution day and across the country different events are organized. The Valle del Jerte, of course, has its own special blend of celebrations. They include a 16km walk: ‘Ruta Vetona’, markets and fairs and even a celebration of local languages.

Poetry festival

In the middle of December is a celebration of poetry with recitals and competitions. It’s not all sedentary though. There are also hiking routes to be tried and poetry combined with dancing. On Sunday, the ecomarket opens and there is opportunity to enjoy some local delicacies.

Every year the calendar changes slightly and you will need to watch out for the release of the programme of events for 2024. It is a great way to discover the little towns of the region which we describe in more detail later.

Cherries blossom in the spring

What could be more beautiful than seeing a valley covered by the most amazing cherry blossoms? Flowering begins at the end of March and continues into the beginning of April. If it is a particularly hot year, the flowering season is a little shorter but just as stunning to see. Altogether you can witness more than one and a half million cherry trees in bloom and how they present themselves on the terraces across the Valley, a tribute to the arrival of spring.

Cherry Blossom Festival

One of the highlights of this time of year is the Cherry Blossom Festival. The Festival aims to reflect a variety of different activities from the region, both in the past and the here and now. One of our favourites is the exhibition of wine presses and memorabilia that demonstrate the industry at work 50 years ago and before.

A tour of towns and villages

One way in which you can see the flowering in its true glory is by taking a tour of the little towns and villages, each with its own character and traditions. Start with the towns furthest down the valley where the trees will blossom first. Follow the blooms as they progress up the valley to those on the coldest and highest peaks. There are specially researched trails that you can chose from to enjoy each village in turn and, of course, the blossoms they host.

Cherries in the summer

Now we’re into springtime in the Valle del Jerte and at the end of April comes cherry harvesting. This crucial three months, lasting until late July, sees the valley luxuriating in this delicious fruit. But it’s not only a time for the pallet but also a time for the eye. From Mid-May until the end of June is the best time to see the cherry trees bowed by their cherries.

For most of us a cherry is a cherry, but here in the Jerte Valley you’ll find a huge variety of tree at different levels of maturity. Farmers time their planting and harvesting so that it spreads across the three months. The altitude at which the trees are planted also makes a difference to when the cherries are ripe.

As you would expect, for such an important time of year, there are plenty of activities planned too. These are called the ‘Cerecera’ and last from the end of May to the middle of July, taking place every weekend. They include the Picota Cherry Day, the Cherry Fair and cherry tasting. You can take part in craft markets, competitions and adventure activities making the most of the wonderful Jerte Valley.

You will find local restaurants offering special menus at this time, of course, with their own examples of the very best cherries. There are guided tours offered by the different local groups and you can take part in cherry picking yourself. Some of these activities are free but others are organized by private companies. If you want to spend more time in the Valley there are also tourist packages which include accommodation as well as cherry picking and tours. Take your pick!

Our guide to the Jerte towns

It’s important to note that around the valley you will find a number of small towns and villages, each with their own distinct charm and atmosphere. Many of the events we’ve listed above, take place in different ones, giving you opportunity to visit and enjoy each of them.

Barrado

Dating back to the Middle Ages, Barrado lies between two valleys – El

Valle del Jerte - Cherry blossoms in bloom

Jerte and La Vera. It is surrounded by oak, chestnut and cherry trees and has adapted to the slopes it was founded on. There is plenty of architecture to see here, including the church of San Sebastián, built in the 16th century and the Hermitage of Nuestra Sra. Del Viso.

Cabezuela del Valle

Another historic town, Cabezuela del Valle is to be found in the centre of the Jerte Valley and adjacent to the Jerte River and its natural pools. Unlike some of the other towns, there is no linear structure to its development. Instead the town spreads out as a triangle starting from its medieval base of ‘La Aldea’.

The main street runs parallel to the river and hosts some of the most distinctive buildings, many with historic origins. There is an old Town Hall with a belfry and a cross marks the end of the street where every Friday a market is held. The church of San Miguel Arcángel was built on the site of the old synagogue and has many features of architectural interest including a baroque altarpiece.

Cabrero

Cabrero was founded by shepherds who could see the advantages of the site for their livestock. Now, it is a very small village set on the mountain with some more recent developments around its main road. Its church was completed in 1758 and was built on the remains of a previous religious building from the 16th century.

Casas del Castañar

Another small village with many special qualities, Casas del Castañar is located on the slopes of the Sierra de San Bernabé. Although there are some modern houses here and, at first glance, it can appear to be a newly built settlement, continuing down the hill you will come across the original, old hamlet with half-timbered dwellings.

Its many winding lanes, mean it is worth leaving the car and strolling along the shaded streets. You can pause to see San Juan Bautistia church dating back to the 16th century and, with prior appointment, visit the Marceliano Sayán Museum which celebrates the life of this famous doctor.

El Torno

Also called, ‘El Mirador del Valle’ because of its magnificent views, El Torno is a settlement that originates in prehistoric times. The village is associated with many legends of conquest and defeat including in 1809 when General Soult and his French army set fire to the town using the linen that was drying on

the roof tops.

Again, you’ll find half-timbered houses here and the church of the Virgen de la Piedad includes a baroque altarpiece. Up the mountain you can see a hundred ‘huts’ which were used by shepherds and made entirely of stone. Why not take a dip in its natural pool and cool down during hot summer days?

Jerte

The town of Jerte is in the lower part of the valley and lends its name to the magnificent river itself. Organised along two main streets you’ll see many of the features traditional to this part of the world, including half-timbered houses and, of course, the parish church of Our Lady of the Assumption.

Navaconcejo

Navaconcejo, is one of the larger Valle del Jerte towns and rests in the middle of the valley. The old Calle Real is the most important road running parallel to the river and is framed by half-timbered houses with open porches and resplendent with flowers.

There are two hermitages here and one of the busiest trails for walkers. The Nogaleas trail passes several notable waterfalls and begins with a climb up to the gorge. From there you descend back down through a lane lined with cherry trees where you can admire the beautiful views of the town.

Piornal

This village is situated halfway between the Jerte Valley and La Vera and is the highest town in the region. Having to cope with the colder climate, the houses here were built to stand austere conditions. Piornal has a bell tower dating back to the 14th century and a number of fountains but is most renowned for its amazing views of the valley below.

Tornavacas

Tornavacas or translated ‘The cows return’ is sandwiched between mountains. Its long main street is divided into three sections and has two bridges crossing the river. Although most of the houses are half-timbered there are also stone buildings and plenty of flowers to admire. There are a number of hermitages here and Our Lady of the Assumption church is built in the Baroque style.

Valdastillas

This is a small settlement in the middle section of the Jerte River basin but not far from here you’ll find one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. The Cascada del Caozo is about 30 metres high and is easy to reach and a further 1km away is the Marta Waterfall which also has a picnic area.

So, now you have the towns to visit, the activities you can take part in and the times of year to enjoy them. Take out your diary, sharpen your pencil and start planning your trip to the Valle del Jerte.

Festivals and popular fiestas on the Costa Blanca

Come to know the most popular fiestas and festivals on the Costa Blanca from March to July 2024. Enjoy the Costa Blanca!

01st March

19th March 2024

VALENCIA

Fallas of Valencia: Fiesta, gunpowder, color and fire

For those who have not yet heard of the most famous party in Valencia and known throughout the world, we show you a review of the history of Las Fallas, falleras and pyrotechnics shows to bring you closer to this incredible event.

28th Abril

01st May 2024

MORAIRA

Gastronomic and commercial fair of Moraira.

Having a beer, enjoying a tapa or buying a small gift beside the sea, is the idea behind the gastronomical and produce fair that Moraira organizes each year at the beginning of May.

19th May

26th May 2024

JÁVEA

Festival del Mar de Jávea

By the time May comes around, the springtime in Jávea is bursting with colour and joie-de-vivre, in part due to the Festival of the Sea, a major cultural, tourist, commercial and sporting.

12th Juny

12th Juny 2024

MORAIRA

Moors and Christians in Moraira

A week of festivities, gala parades, conquests and reconquests bring the streets of Moraira to fever pitch, coinciding as they

do with the start of the tourist season and the celebration of one of this Alicante town’s most deeply rooted festivals: the Moors and Christians Festival.

16th Juny

24th Juny 2024

ALICANTE

Bonfire of San Juan: Cult of ephemeral art to burn.

The Bonfires of San Juan in Alicante, which coincide with the summer solstice on the 24th of June, are without doubt the best known of all the festivities that are held in this town. Internationally famous, not for nothing have they been declared a “Festival of International Tourist Interest”, and each year they attract thousands of people from every corner of the world.

18th Juny

24th Juny 2024

ALICANTE

Alicante Medieval fair

Just before the summer solstice, Alicante dresses up to the nines to conjure up the time when King James II incorporated the land of Alicante to the Crown of Aragon, and endowed the province with an annual market fair that marked the beginning of the city’s commercial activity.

22nd Juny 24th Juny 2024

ALTEA

Festivitie of l’Arbret in Altea

The neighbourhood of Fornet de Altea welcomes hundreds of young people who are keen to participate in one of the most ancestral and anticipated events that are held to celebrate the arrival of the summer solstice and the fecundation of the earth that it brings.

28th Juny 02nd Juny 2024

BENISSA

Moors and Christians in Benissa

The traditional Moors and Christians festival is held in Benissa on the closest weekend to the 20th of June, in honour of Saint Peter the Apostle.

29th Juny

01st July 2024

JÁVEA

International Cultural Festival in Jávea: Enjoy multiculturalism next to the Mediterranean.

On the last weekend in June, the

beautiful town of Jávea holds its International Festival, a mix of culture, gastronomy, music and world class dance, with stalls representing 22 countries where visitors can sample typical products from different regions. The afternoons are filled with regional dance from each country as well as exhibitions and activities for all ages.

01st july

27th August 2024

MORAIRA

Voramar Street Jazz week 2024

Those who visit the peaceful town of Moraira in the month of August can enjoy live Jazz music while they follow a route that the local Department of Tourism has set up through the town’s streets and its nooks and crannies, with the intention of livening up the warm summer evenings.

01st July

10th September 2024

ALTEA

Altea Crafts Fair

The old town centre of Altea is the setting for the Handicrafts Fair that is held every year in the square in front of the Church in this little Alicante town.

03rd July 2024

BENIDORM

Neptune Water Music Festival

Amazing aquatic festival opens its doors in July, offering over 12 hours of uninterrupted music and fun, with sensational light and sound effects continuing through the night, refreshing the long hot summer days. The fun starts at the Neptuno Aquatic Festival.

08th July

16th July 2024

DENIA

“Bous a la mar”: Do you play at being a bullfighter?

The quintessential party of the town of Dénia, which has now been adopted by other nearby towns in the Valencia region. The fact is that the bullfighting tradition and the Mediterranean Sea make the perfect match in the summertime.

13th July

23rd July 2024

MORAIRA

Patron saint festivities of Moraira

Moraira puts on its best party to celebrate its patron saint in honour of the Virgen de los

Around either the 14th of July (Our Lady of Mount Carmel) or the 29th

each year to coincide with the day

14th July

22nd July 2024

JÁVEA

Moors and Christians in Javea

There are not many festivals in Spain which are organised by the townspeople themselves, without big money sponsors, and fewer still as colourful and spectacular as this one.

16th July

16th July 2024

COSTA BLANCA

Virgen del Carmen in coastal towns

The Festival of the Virgen del Carmen (the Virgin of Mount Carmel) is celebrated in almost every seaside town across Alicante province on 16 July or the nearest weekend.

22nd July

27th July 2024

BENISSA Festivities of Sant Jaume in Benimarco

Around 25 July Benimarco ( a rural area encompassing the towns of Benissa and Teulada-Moraira) holds a week of festivals in honour of its patron saint, Sant Jaume (St James).

24th July

31st July 2024

VILLAJOYOSA

Moors and Christians in Villajoyosa: A naval battle at dawn

How would you like to experience a naval battle and a Moorish landing on the beach? Well, make a note in your diary of the Villajoyosa Moors and Christians Festival, declared a festival of International Tourist Interest, with over 250 years of history behind it.

28th July

30th July 2024

BENIDORM

Low Festival in Benidorm

One of the summer’s most eagerly anticipated festivals is held in Benidorm in the last week of July. It brings together some of the most renowned, modern groups on the national and international stage: Placebo, Massive Attack, Love of Lesbian, Two Door Cinema Club and Fangoria are some of the acts to have graced the festival’s stages. The Low Festival began in Benidorm in 2008 and has maintained the spirit and quality of a festival born with the aim of reaching all types of fans.

Festivals and popular fiestas on the Costa Blanca

Festivals

Spain has always been in prime position to take advantage of the need for renewable energy. It has more hours of sunlight than any other EU

Renewable energy Spain at forefront!the

member state and is perfectly poised to make the most of wind and waterpower too. In this article we focus on solar power and what it might mean for you.

Spain has an enviable renewable energy capacity. According to the Environmental Performance Index it is in fact the 14th most sustainable country in the world and the third country when it comes to renewable energy. It has high hopes to build on its current record and register an even greater success story by 2050 with 100% renewable energy use.

It isn’t an unselfish ambition either. Reducing dependency on fossil fuels comes with many advantages and not just ecological ones. Spain has never had a wealth of resources when it comes to traditional fossil fuels, so reducing its dependency on imports can only come at a cost advantage.

During the last decade Spain has doubled the percentage of electricity it has generated from renewable energy. It has also made a commitment to hydrogen in sectors such as industry and heavy transport. Its mixture of solar panels, wind turbines and hydroelectric power is the envy of many other EU countries.

During the last decade Spain has doubled the percentage of electricity it has generated from renewable energy

Solar panels

When individuals are considering what their role might be in Spain’s renewable energy drive, it’s usually in relation to solar panels. More and more people are investing with them on their roofs to make the most of the 300 days of sunshine that you can expect here every year.

You have a choice between on-grid or off-grid

solar panels. On-grid panels mean that your unit is connected to your energy provider’s grid. This has the advantage that if you are producing excess energy then it can be sold back to your provider. In addition, if you do not generate sufficient energy then you can still access the grid for your energy requirements.

An off-grid option might be your only alternative if your property is in a rural location. In the case of off-grid solar energy then any excess power can be stored in batteries and used at night, for example. The downside is that it is more expensive to install initially, and you will be reliant on your system for your energy needs.

The big question for most people is ‘how much will I save?’ This depends upon several different factors including your usage, the amount of sunlight you get, your tariff and installation costs. It is difficult to estimate with any accuracy but we can suggest that in most cases you will have recovered the initial installation cost of the panels in five years. This is a long-term investment but by installing the panels you are also contributing to reducing your carbon footprint and increasing the value of your property if you should decide to sell.

There have been grants available to support the installation of solar panels but the most recent of these finished in December 2023.However, you can still apply for tax reductions in your IBI (council tax) bill and a provider should be able to give you advice about this.

Next steps

If you are interested in having solar panels installed in your property then there are some initial steps that it is important to take. First of all there will need to be a study of your roof to ensure that its condition is good enough and that its orientation and inclination are suitable for the process to begin.

You will need permission from your community of owners if you live in a property that is part of a community and you should start on this process in good time to ensure that there are no hold ups to your project.

It is important that you appoint an authorised installer as documents will need to be presented to ensure the registration of your panels. They will be able to advise you on this. There are now a number of different providers available and you should ask them for estimates and details of their service to determine who would be the best supplier for you.

Installing solar panels is a long-term investment that deserves time spent on research and comparison in order to make sure that you obtain the best deal. Once the process is completed the good news is that they take very little maintenance. The panels themselves do need to be kept clean to make sure that they get the maximum benefit from the sun’s rays and washing them with water is usually sufficient to do this.

Investing in solar panels is both a positive environmental choice and one that will have a beneficial long-term impact on your pocket.

Preparing for a happy and retirementhealthy in Spain

Has it always been your dream to enjoy your retirement in Spain? Perhaps you already have a holiday home here and would like to spend a bigger proportion of the year warming up in its favourable climate and sampling its Mediterranean cuisine? In this article we explore some ways in which you can make the dream a reality.

Deciding to move to another country is a huge decision at any time of your life. As your years of work are drawing to a close it is one that many people consider. Understandably. With so much time to hand, it’s an attractive prospect to spend as much of is at possible in the open air, enjoying the sunshine. It is hot in summer –that’s beyond question – however, for many months of the year you have bright, clear, sunny days. These are optimum for taking part in many outdoor activities, the like of which would be more difficult in your home country.

Depending on where you choose to retire, another draw factor is that there are many other people of similar ages who will have chosen to do the same thing. This can mean a busy social life where the pensioner is king and you can dance, do sport and watch entertainment with other people without feeling you are the oldest one in the room.

And, perhaps most importantly, it opens up the opportunity of an adventure at a time when maybe those around you see you as ready only for bed socks and hot water bottles. It’s a whole country to explore and discover – and what a country it is! The richness of the landscape, local traditions and the huge variety of settlement from rural village to dynamic metropolitan city –

but all with their historic origins and stories to tell.

If we haven’t sold it to you yet, perhaps we can appeal to your pocket. Spain remains a country where property is relatively cheap, and you can purchase a far bigger property for your money than in many other European countries. Cost of living has risen, as it has in most places, but still compares favourably, especially if you do your research and ensure that the property you have is easily sustainable from your income.

So, are you ready to turn your holiday home into your permanent residence? Whether you are thinking of it now or speculating for some time in the future, here is our advice for taking those steps towards a happy, healthy retirement in Spain.

Weighing it all up

Whether you’ve just had a flush moment of ‘what if…’ or if you’ve been considering it for years, the first step is to give all aspects of the move careful consideration and to do your research. There are many factors to take into consideration and too hasty a decision with actions to follow can take you in a direction that you might regret later.

First, consider your finances. How will you fund yourself and will it be sufficient to enable you to be accepted in Spain as a resident. We do cover this in more detail in the article, but there is no point in making your plans unless you are in a position to obtain residency here. You will need to be able to prove that you can take care of yourself financially and that you can access health care.

Secondly, it’s family and friends. How do they feel and how do you feel about the prospect of putting more distance in between you all. Spain is only a few hours away by air but if you have dependents or close family ties that will not stretch that far then you may find later that the break is too difficult to maintain.

A move to Spain is a list of pros and cons that need carefully setting aside each other. However, it’s also about your heart and how you see your future. Retirement can be daunting, if delightful, for those who

have worked all their lives. What do you visualise for yourself in the years to come and where is it most likely to be realised?

Residency

Everyone’s circumstances are different and the only way that you can be sure whether you have what’s needed to obtain residency in Spain is by consulting an expert. That isn’t someone on the internet or the man in the bar. Requirements have changed enormously if you are from the UK and even entry from the EU has tightened up. It’s no longer a case of where your hat is and, as such, you need good, reliable advice from a recommended professional. For example, David Ruiz from Torrevieja Translation torreviejatranslation.com has been helping people get the paperwork they need in Spain for years.

As a pensioner you need to be able to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents– whether you are from a country in the EU/EEA or not. If you are coming from a non-EU country then you will need a visa before applying for your Spanish residency card. The most likely one accessible to you is the non-lucrative visa which requires you to have either savings or a regular income from a pension or other source. You will also need a public or private health insurance plan as well as a police check, a medical certificate and a marriage certificate (if appropriate) and all translated into Spanish by an official translator.

The visa is initially granted for a year and then renewed for another two years and another two years after that. Finally, you can become a permanent resident. There are other visas that you might be entitled to if you are self-employed and work online or have over 500,000€ to invest. Again, you need to speak to a professional to determine the best way forward for you.

Where, when and how

So, you’ve made the decision, and you know the route that you can take to make it a reality. The next steps will very much depend upon your own current, individual circumstances. If you already have your own property, then this is relatively easy. It also means that some of the paperwork can be done before you move out permanently with the security that you still have your current property in your home country if things should change.

Do be mindful of what you will do with your existing, permanent home. There are a range of options, but they come with tax considerations and, again, this is something

that you should take advice on. If you want to keep the property in your home country you can rent it out but will need to declare income in Spain. If you do decide to sell at some point in the future, this must also be declared, and you could have a bill for capital gains tax.

If your property has previously been a holiday home, then it is likely that you will want to make some changes to adapt it to your new, residential needs. Storage, in particular, can be an issue and you should look carefully at the options for heating in winter. It often surprises people who are only used to coming in the summer, how chilly it can get.

Think about transport. If you bring your car over with you then it will need to be registered here. Alternatively, you might prefer to buy one in Spain. Either way you will need to check on the validity of your driving licence, depending on which country it was originally issued in.

If you don’t already have a property in Spain, many people will advise you to rent first before committing yourself to one area. This does have advantages but, of course, you are then limited when it comes to redesigning your property according to your needs. Most people see this as a temporary alternative, but others enjoy the possibility of moving around and exploring the country by changing their place of residency.

Think ahead when looking for a property to invest in if you this is your first purchase. It can be tempting to go for the rural getaway with spectacular mountain views and not a main road in sight. However, consider how this will feel in later years. There are advantages to making sure that you are in a location that has good access to the services that you will need on a weekly basis and being too isolated has drawbacks.

One step at a time

Be prepared for a wait for paperwork..A lot will depend on the time of year and the region that you are applying to live in. Do not expect fast results in August! Be aware that each autonomous community has its own hurdles to jump and again, you should seek professional advice from someone familiar with how its local town hall works.

There will be plenty that you will need to organise back home and in between paperwork chases. You will need to make arrangements with both banks –home and abroad and if you are receiving regular income into an account in your home country you might want to consider engaging a currency exchange provider to

Engage the help of a reputable professional, take their advice but recognise that they are not in charge of the bureaucratic process that can seem lengthy in Spain

cut down on any transfer costs.

Alongside the financial and legal preparations you should also be preparing yourself mentally for the transition from the hustle and bustle of your current life style to that of retirement and a redundant alarm clock. If you are already retired then you will be familiar with the need to organise your time and day. Be careful when you first come over– especially if you are used to holidaying here. This time it’s not for a couple of weeks or even a couple of months and you need to establish some routine for yourself in the early days.

Alternatives

Whether you have decided to go for it or whether you are hesitating, what’s most important is that you have thought things through. You don’t want to punish yourself in ten years’ time with the thought that you dodged the decision. It should be a choice you make, for or against, rather than a lapsed opportunity that you simply never got round to.

And if you do decide that it’s really not for you, all is not lost. To some extent you can have your cake and eat it. Whether you are a national of an EU country or not, you can still spend 90 consecutive days out here before returning home. This is still a very good option for those who aren’t quite ready to commit to permanent residency and continues to be a choice enjoyed by many.

Whatever your decision, we wish you well and hope that you enjoy your days, weeks, months or years in this beautiful country.

Types of dementia in older people Signs you shouldn’t ignore

Dr. Mirko Alavena, Neurologist at Quirónsalud Torrevieja, answers the most frequently asked questions about the types of dementia in the elderly and offers advice on how to live with it.

Types of dementia, what are they?

“Dementia is a loss of mental faculties due to damage to the brain, which results in an inability to live independently,” explains Dr. Alavena. Damage to the brain can have different causes, although in the elderly the most common are neurodegenerative diseases and vascular injuries.

What are the symptoms of each type of dementia?

The specialist at Quirónsalud Torrevieja emphasizes the following types of dementia:

Alzheimer’s

The most common neurodegenerative disease that causes dementia in the elderly is Alzheimer’s, whose main symptom is memory loss. Initially, short-term memory is affected; But over time, other functions of thought such as language, reasoning, manipulation of objects, etc., deteriorate.

There are many other neurodegenerative dementias in which the impairment of memory is not as marked, but other brain functions are. For example: frontotemporal dementia, which affects language and reasoning. Lewy body dementia, which presents fluctuations and hallucinations, dementia associated with Parkinson’s, posterior cortical atrophy, primary progressive aphasia…

Vascular dementia

There is also vascular dementia, which is caused by heart attacks and/or haemorrhages that destroy scattered brain regions and can have very varied symptoms that generally evolve in a staggered manner. Other less common types of dementia are those caused by normotensive hydrocephalus, tumour lesions or haemorrhages external to the brain, autoimmune diseases, prion diseases, atypical parkinsonism, Wernicke-Korsakoff, etc.

What are the causes of the different types of dementia in the elderly population?

The most common cause is neurodegenerative; at the base of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, atypical parkinsonism, etc. Although it is known that there are abnormal protein deposits that intoxicate and destroy neurons, the origin or trigger is not clear.

The next most common cause is vascular, which is related to cerebral infarctions or haemorrhages due to the progressive accumulation of lesions in the blood vessels. They may be related to treatable vascular risk factors (blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking), but there are also other non-modifiable factors.

Other less common causes are normotensive hydrocephalus in adults, brain tumours and hematomas external to the brain, prion diseases, or autoimmune diseases. Chronic syphilis infection is also seen less and less.

How are different types of dementia diagnosed and evaluated in the elderly?

Dementia can be diagnosed with a brief interview with the patient. However, incipient cases (“mild cognitive impairment”) sometimes require a more complete evaluation of cognitive functions in order to be detected, confirmed, and categorized.

Once cognitive impairment is confirmed, imaging tests (CT, MRI) and laboratory tests are requested to rule out lesions such as tumours, haemorrhages, heart attacks, vitamin deficiencies, metabolic alterations, or infections.

Neurodegenerative diseases can only be verified by observing brain tissue under a microscope, which is not possible in life without injuring the patient.

Currently, there are nuclear medicine tests (SPECT and PET) and cerebrospinal fluid studies (lumbar puncture) that can detect both the loss of activity in various areas of the brain, as well as the deposit of some abnormal proteins in it. Through these tests, it is possible to have greater certainty when giving a diagnosis of neurodegenerative disease.

What is the impact of dementia on the quality of life of the elderly and their caregivers?

It depends on many factors, including things like previous personality or environment. Some people with dementia can be very docile and kind, while others can be demanding and even aggressive. This even with the same diagnosis.

In general, in Alzheimer’s, patients deny the impairment of memory, but they make mistakes, misplace things, and blame their caregivers. Sometimes they can also leave the house and wander aimlessly. They are very vulnerable to malicious deceptions. They can also get involved in domestic accidents or medication errors.

In frontotemporal dementia there may be people who are able to refute and argue with correct information, but whose behaviour is totally inappropriate and sometimes even dangerous. There are cases that wreak havoc with your assets before they are suspected of having a problem.

In Lewy body dementia, people’s hallucinations can be very worrisome. There are fluctuations that confuse caregivers, as they can intersperse days of apparent lucidity with others of clear disorientation. They also tend to associate sleep disorders, to the point of sleeping during the day and being agitated at night. It’s also common for them to have balance problems and fall.

Vascular dementias can have very diverse symptoms, depending on where in the brain the lesions are present, explains Dr. Alavena.

• Authorised by the Bank of Spain

• 24/7 payments online or by app

•

•

Enjoy your retirement with Currencies Direct

If you’re retiring in Spain, chances are you’ll need to transfer your pension, either in full or as monthly payments.

Saving money when transferring your pension to Spain

There are a few different ways to achieve this and finding the right method for you can save you significant time and money.

Your pension options

Broadly speaking, there are two main routes you can take. Note that it’s always best to speak to a pensions expert who specialises in moving pensions overseas, as they’ll be able to offer you tailored advice.

The initial option involves transferring your pension into a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS). Opting for a QROPS can yield potential tax advantages, and it allows you to manage your pension in a currency of your choosing. However, it’s important to note that certain pensions, such as UK state pensions, are not eligible for transfer to a QROPS.

Moreover, while you can currently transfer pensions into EU or European Economic Area (EEA) QROPS without tax implications, transferring funds outside this zone may incur a 25% Overseas Transfer Charge (OTC) from the UK. Although there have been no changes to this regulation thus far, there is a chance that EU/EEA QROPS might also be subject to this charge in the future.

Alternatively, you can keep your pension in the UK and transfer the funds overseas, typically on a monthly basis. The downside here is that fluctuations in the exchange rate can affect how much you receive for each transfer. Additionally, some providers charge transfer fees, which diminish your funds. Fortunately, there are ways you can protect against currency volatility and get the most out of your money transfers.

Cost-efficient overseas transfers

If you want or need to keep your pension in the UK, then you’ll need to find a cost-efficient way of moving that money to Spain, as fluctuations in the currency market can have a big impact on your funds.

For instance, in the second half of 2023

GBP/EUR moved between a high of €1.17 and a low of around €1.14. Say you’re transferring £3,000 a month from your UK pension to Spain, that three-cent difference amounts to a €90 fall in your monthly income. Additionally, some banks charge transfer fees of up to £30 per transaction, further chipping away at your money.

The best way to get the most from your overseas transfers is to work with a specialist currency provider. With competitive exchange rates and expert guidance, they can help you to navigate market volatility while getting a great deal on your transfers. That means you’ll have more certainty when budgeting and more money in your pocket.

Just ensure you are working with an EU licenced currency provider like Currencies Direct. In a post-Brexit world, your money could be at risk if you use an unregulated provider.

Why Currencies Direct?

Currencies Direct offers all of the above –excellent exchange rates, expert support, and a range of transfer options. We also have an exclusive deal with CaixaBank –one of Spain’s largest banks – which means you’ll never pay receiving charges in any Spanish bank.

Spanish banks tend to charge a 1% fee for processing large payments and anywhere from 0.75% to 1.5% for raising a banker’s draft. When making regular payments this can quickly add up.

With Currencies Direct, you’ll also get a dedicated Account Manager – a friendly currency expert whose job it is to help you make the most of your money. They’ll work hard to understand you and your unique situation, providing guidance and support.

We’re one of the longest-standing currency specialists in Europe, having helped over 500,000 happy customers since 1996. We pride ourselves on our outstanding customer service, having won MoneyAge’s ‘Money Transfer Provider of the Year’ award four times and holding an Excellent rating on Trustpilot, with thousands of five-star reviews.

As a Currencies Direct client, you can speak to your Account Manager over the phone, move money 24/7 online, or even pop into one of our 20+ local branches scattered across Spain and speak to a currency expert face to face.

Create a free account today – it only takes a couple of minutes – and talk through your needs with one of our friendly currency experts.

Spoilt for choice Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa

Are you looking for a destination with miles of sandy beaches? Or do you prefer a busier town centre with lots to do and a buzzing nightlife? Perhaps you’re wanting to have an active holiday with golf, water sports and some bowling thrown in? The good news is that all these attractions are not mutually exclusive. You can have them all if you pick a property right on our doorstep.

In case you don’t know, our main Ábaco office is situated in Torrevieja. And with good reason. This bustling town has always been a magnet for many foreigners looking to buy a property in Spain.

Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa are located in the Costa Blanca, an area of the Spanish coast that belongs to the province of Alicante. This coastline is 200 kilometres long and offers wonderful beaches and beauty spots.

The town is in fact a very cosmopolitan blend of different nationalities but still has a traditional Spanish feel when you’re walking along its paseos and hear the hubbub of social life on a summer’s evening.

Originally a fishing village, the town has grown and spread but still retains a charm with its ornate casino, busy flea market and piers or ‘diques’ that you can stroll along and feel that you are out at sea. It boasts three marinas, each with its own personality and providing a range of services and activities for those nautically minded. Even if you’re not, you can enjoy a drink in one of the bars there and pick your favourite boat.

What often comes as a surprise to people visiting the town is that it does have its own selection of sandy beaches. Dotted along the paseo you can enjoy a little shopping and a bite to eat in between a spot of sunbathing and swimming. You don’t have to travel from one to the other, they are all there, in a stone’s throw.

Another quirk of the town is that it actually has two ‘lagunas’ or lakes. One of these services the salt industry and it can feel a little unusual to think that the beautiful pink lake is also a source of employment with the salt mined there transported across Europe. You can even take a tour of the lake and the salt works and track the journey of this important mineral as it is finally loaded into ships out at sea.

Alternatively, if you’re more interested in wildlife you can take a very different kind of tour around the area’s second natural lake of La Mata. This is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, do some bird spotting and find out more about this superb and unique natural environment situated in one of the region’s largest towns.

Orihuela Costa

Just up the road and here you’ll find the picture post card beaches of Orihuela Costa. Each one comes with its own devotees and with good reason. Take your pick from La Zenia with its cliff top bar and restaurant or Cala Capitán, Cabo Roig, a favourite amongst

families for the easily accessible cove with shallow water for the youngest to play. Why not try Playa Flamenca with its fine white sand and promenade or La Glea by the small port of Dehesa Campoamor? Many of these beaches have been given a blue flag for their cleanliness and the services available. You have to try them all to decide which one is your favourite.

But it’s not all about the beaches. Orihuela Costa is a great place to purchase a property if you love shopping too. Zenia Boulevard is the perfect place to browse or buy with hundreds of high street stores as well as bars, restaurants and events that mean a day just isn’t sufficient to see it all.

We also can’t neglect to mention the area of Villamartin. A little back from the main coast, it has always been a popular place to explore with its famous plaza full of bars, restaurants and entertainment and, of course, its golf club. If golf is your thing then you are spoilt for choice. Villamartin is one of the best known and respected of the area’s clubs but has plenty of competition too.

Finally, we’d like to mention Cabo Roig strip which is one of the favourite nighttime destinations for people with homes along the costa. In the evening it comes alive with bars, restaurants, shops and late-night venues too where you can see a show or have a dance into the early morning. It’s not the only place to party, however. There are several other commercial centres in the area where you’ll find a similar range of evening venues and entertainment, such as La Fuente and Flamenca Beach.

So, have we tickled your taste buds for two of our favourite local destinations? If you already have a property in either Torrevieja or Orihuela Costa you know what we have only touched on some of the attractions that you’ll find there. If you’ve not been or are just considering this as an option, then we hope you’ll take your time to find out more about what these amazing locations really have to offer.

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, two of the best golf courses in Spain, spa, gym, tennis, High Performance Centre and paddle courts, and several restaurants to delight the most demanding palates.

A dream environment where to rest and rejuvenate.

lafincaresort.com

ALICANTE

Comunidad Valenciana SPAIN

A Golfer’s Paradise

Whether you are already addicted to golf, an occasional putter or have never even picked up a club, golf in Spain is a delight. With its abundance of sunny days and clear skies you won’t be rained off very often and the huge variety of clubs for all different levels and preferences makes picking your green a dream. In this article we outline some of the main factors to consider.

In most parts of Spain you’ll find a selection of golf clubs and their courses. These vary enormously from those that offer only 9-hole golf to those designed and supported by professional golfers. This variety means that you can be sure there is one that is right for you, whatever your level and location. Here are some tips to help you in your search.

Your level

One of your first considerations is finding a club that matches your level. Of course, you are aiming to improve and you don’t want to feel limited by what your club offers. However, punching too high can mean that you don’t feel comfortable in your surroundings. At the same time, you don’t want to choose a course that you will quickly get bored of. Although it isn’t usually necessary to bring a handicap certificate, if you do have one, you should take it with you when you are making your enquiries.

What other facilities?

Most of the clubs you’ll see advertised offer far more than just golf. For some, having a small golf course may not even be their main attraction. If you are looking out for a leisure complex and somewhere where you can relax in a pool, you may have these available at one of the more serious clubs but also your needs might be better met elsewhere. Be clear with yourself about exactly what your priorities are.

When to play

The next consideration is how often you are likely to use the course. If you are a resident then you might wish to consider membership but will need to be a regular attender to get value for money. In some cases, particularly as a non-resident, you

will be better off to just pay for a round of golf when you feel like it. There are plenty of agencies that will also be happy to help you organize golf trips, particularly if a number of people are involved.

Accessibility

Take into consideration the proximity to your Spanish property and how well what is available fits in with your lifestyle and preferences. Too far away and although you might be eager to commit time to the journey initially, you may find this becomes less attractive as time goes on. There are so many clubs available that you should be able to find one that doesn’t require a great deal of commuting time.

Affordability

Perhaps we should have put this higher on the list – but how much you can comfortably afford to spend is, of course, a major consideration. It’s not only the green fees that you will need to think about. The clubhouse is likely to follow suit in the price tags you’ll find on everything. If you can only just make the monthly or annual fees then you may find you are not able to properly enjoy the other leisure activities that your clubhouse has to offer. Look out for different offers. For example, clubs might have early tee time with special green fees and you are likely to have reduction during low-season in the summer.

Socialising

Who will you be playing with now and who do you hope to play with in the future? Consider issues to do with language spoken and whether you will feel that you fit in sufficiently to take part in the social events that they organize. Do they target particular groups or is it more inclusive?

Course maintenance

It’s a competitive market out there and some clubs have struggled through lockdown and the subsequent tightening of budgets. You want to be sure that the club you choose is taking good care of its facilities and, of course, its greens. Check out if you can, from other club members their perception of its maintenance. You don’t want to find yourself signing up to a club that appears to be being neglected.

Rules you can live with

All golf clubs have their rules. They are important for keeping everyone happy. However, some clubs can be a little overbearing when it comes to the reasonable enforcement of them. Be clear about what the rules of the club are in terms of guests and check out the dress code in different parts of the clubhouse.

You are spoilt for choice when selecting your club in Spain. Make sure you make your decisions taking these factors into account.

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 natural

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

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 profit-making concern. If you want to check out the variety of grape and how the wine is produced – visit their website: rodriguezdevera.com/en/sopla-levante. There, they also share with you the various awards and recommendations that their wines have received.

Now, we’d like to introduce individually this selection of established and well-received wines.

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 hand by ordering a bottle from their website and trying it for yourself. They even have 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.

Levante – wines that are out of this world

Whether it’s a short or a long-stay holiday, securing the best car hire package is an important feature. Lara Cars is a family-run business that have stood the test of time and have adapted to provide their customers with the best terms and conditions

card deposit. These are just some of the ways in which we ensure that you receive the best package possible. In addition, we can guarantee that there are no hidden costs or extras and that the price you pay on reserving your vehicle will be the same as when you collect it.

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.

The audit included the protocol recommended to the transport industry and detailed in the ‘Guide to reducing the spread of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.’ This guide was published by the Secretary of State for Tourism in coordination with the Health Ministry and with the help of the Quality Tourism Institute. This stamp of approval is yet another indication of our commitment to a safe, secure and trusted service.

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.

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

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.

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.

We make your dreams come true! @Barcoaventura

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.

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.

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.

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.

Barco

The most popular local markets of Torrevieja and surroundings

Torrevieja Market

Frequency: Every Friday (holidays or not).

Hours: Mornings

Location: Nueva Torrevieja

Urbanization

Points of Sale: 700

Torrevieja Handicraft Market

Frequency: Daily

Hours: All day

Location: Paseo Marítimo de la Libertad

Points of Sale: 300

If you are looking for markets in Torrevieja, there are two major markets. One is the Hippy Or craft market and you can find this on the promenade by the port. The other market you can find here is one of the biggest in Spain. In this market, you can easily grab some bargain as well for clothing, vegetables, fruit, leather, handbags, shoes, bedding, curtains, etc. There are a lot of weekly markets in Orihuela Costa.

La Mata Market

Frequency: Every Wednesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Canal del Acequión

Points of Sale: 250

Orihuela Market

Frequency: Every Tuesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Around Duque de Tamames street

Orihuela vegetable market

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: Mornings

Location: St. Lucia Square

Orihuela Costa Market

Frequency: Every Saturday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Behind the City Council of Orihuela Costa (Vía Park)

Guardamar del Segura Market

Frequency: Every Wednesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Behind the church

Market of Moncayo in Campo de Guardamar

Frequency: Every Sunday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Guardamar Field. Alto del Moncayo. GuardamarMontesinos Highway

Points of Sale: 1000

Albatera Market

Frequency: Every Thursday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Next to the Market Square

Algorfa Market

Frequency: Every Wednesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C / Fernando de Rojas

Almoradí Market

Frequency: Every Saturday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Constitution Avenue

Points of Sale: 600

Market guide of Torrevieja and surroundings

Benejúzar Market

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Plaza de España

Benferri Market

Frequency: Every Sunday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C / Féliz Rodríquez de la Fuente, 25

Benijófar Market

Frequency: Every Tuesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C / Corazón de Jesús (Behind the Church)

Bigastro Market

Frequency: Every Thursday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C / Purísima (next to the Church)

Market of Callosa de Segura

Frequency: Every Wednesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: In front of the House of Culture

You can also see some in neighboring areas. You can find a wide range of goods in these markets. You can find food, shoes, and clothes. You should visit these markets and you will definitely find the best goods here.

Catral Market

Frequency: Every Saturday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Behind the Church, next to the House of Culture.

Cox Market

Frequency: Every Monday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Glorieta Square

New Daya Market

Frequency: Every Tuesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Next to the Town Hall

Daya Vieja

Flea Market

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Provincial Provincial Avenue

Dolores Market

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Avda. Mayor José Rodríguez

Market of

Formentera del Segura

Frequency: Every Monday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C/ Italia and C/ Joaquín Canales Mora

The most popular markets

Rocamora Farm Market

Frequency: Every Monday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C/ Obispo Rocamora

Jacarilla Market

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C/ Alicante (Next to the Town Hall)

Los Montesinos Market

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: Afternoons

Location: Behind the promenade, next to the church

Pilar de la Horadada Market

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: Afternoons

Location: In front of the Town Hall

Rafal Market

Frequency: Every Thursday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C/ El Molino and C/ Prince of Asturias (Behind the Town Hall)

Redován Market

Frequency: Every Saturday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Town Hall Square

Rojales Market

Frequency: Every Thursday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Avda. Justo Quesada (Fairground)

San Fulgencio Market

Frequency: Every Tuesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C/ Gabriel Miró (after passing the medical center)

These markets are considered as an alternative for all kinds of traditional trade. You can visit these markets if you are interested in buying decorative items, clothing, textiles, crafts, interior design, footwear, and garden products at affordable prices. These markets are authentic Arab souks and they have reached great popularity among Spaniards and they are also popular among Europeans who visit Torrevieja.

La Marina Urbanization Market

Frequency: Every Thursday and Sunday

Hours: Mornings

Location: C/ Justo Antonio Quesada

San Isidro Market

Frequency: Every Wednesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: San Isidro-Albatera Highway

Market of San Miguel de Salinas

Frequency: Every Wednesday

Hours: Mornings

Location: Juan XXIII Street and adjacent