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Introduction & Contents

elcome to the Almería Focus Magazine and really useful A-Z Directory for the Levante area, with more than 2000 entries and contact numbers! View it online at www.almeriafocus.com. The Focus is free every month and distributed from Mojácar to San Juan de los Terroros on the coast and inland as far as Albox and Huércal Overa.

Contents The Run up to Christmas ..................................................…...10 In the News ........…................…………................................…….12 The AVE Bombshell .....................................................50 So Now You Know ............................................................................52 Personal Mobility Devices.....................................................54 What About Gibraltar? ..........................................................56 Help with the Cost of Electricity .....................................58 Elections in Spain ..............................................................60 Mojácar Archaeology Report ..............................................62 A-Z Directory ……………….......……................................................66 Useful Numbers ...............................................................111 Community News ............................................................................112 What’s On ..................................................................................114 Activities, Clubs and Associations ........................................119 Your Stars …..........…………......……........................................…123 Jokes of the Month ………………............................................124 Coffee Break …………………….............................................…126 For general enquiries, call Clare on 670 84 92 65 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com For advertising enquiries, call Rob on 619 833 041.

The copy deadline for the December issue is November 18th

www.almeriafocus.com The Almería Focus is an independent publication produced and printed in Almería. We cannot be responsible for claims made by advertisers, nor errors in advertisements caused by poor quality submissions. Neither are we responsible for any loss or damage resulting from any error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of an advert. The purchase of advertising space does not give the advertiser ownership of any advert, unless supplied to us as finished artwork or via a design agency. Adverts designed by the Almeria Focus Layout Department, including its photos, logos and specialised fonts remain the property of the Almería Focus magazine and cannot be scanned, partially or fully reproduced, or proofs supplied to other publications. Action will be taken against persons, companies, publishers, printers or distributors who infringe this copyright. Deposito Legal: AL-956-2008 Nº 104

The Run up to Christmas

p to the end of December, relevant sectors of the population who are plugged into the Spanish Health Service as well as anybody over the age of 65, are entitled to have the free antiflu vaccinations, and we comment on this in our ‘In The News’ section. On December 2nd, elections take place as to who will run our autonomous community of Andalucía. Non Spanish people cannot vote in these elections, but they can next May 26th when local elections take place in every municipality. Elected councillors will serve for four years until May 2023, and EU ex-pats can cast a vote. We expand on this in an article, and next month we will explain how this works in greater detail as registration on the Spanish electoral roll has to be completed before December 30th. As regards Brexit, one of the hot potatoes and sticking points relates to Northern and Southern Ireland, and this is aired almost daily in the UK press and TV stations. What isn’t being highlighted is the future of Spain and Gibraltar. Next March, Gibraltar, which is a British Overseas Territory, will leave the EU, and an agreement between the EU, Spain and the UK, has to be reached well before then. We comment on the various difficulties, and what Spain would like to happen in an article.

province in general and is a very important accolade. Almería province is emerging again as a very popular setting for a large number of films and commercials, with the important Western Film Festival that took place last month in Tabernas. In Almería city, the important annual film festival with competitions for the best short film takes place in November. This is another activity that has helped put Almería in the forefront again. The big problem is the accessibility of Almería as regards transport. The arrival of the ‘AVE’ (high speed train) is badly needed, and we comment on the most up to date information in an article. Gibraltar

The completion of the dual carriageway from Vera to Las Buganvillas roundabout is proceeding at full speed, as is the new roundabout on the ring road from Vera to the A-340 leading to the Antas industrial estate and the A-7 motorway. This junction has been a black spot for many years with various fatalities. It has been announced that the final section of the motorway from the A-7 junction to Huércal-Overa going to Cucador will be started soon.

A recent judgement in the Spanish Supreme court is that banks and lenders have to pay a document tax relating to mortgages, known as ‘AJD’. Up to now, the mortgage customers have had to pay this tax that on a mortgage of 200,000 Euros amounts to 3,000 Euros in Andalucía. Banks are not at all impressed that they will have to make There are no major national fiesta dates before substantial refunds, and we comment on this the end of November, but December 6th is the decision in our ‘In the News’ section. anniversary of the signing of the Spanish Constitution and a “red” fiesta date throughout Almería city has won the prestigious award Spain. Unfortunately, there are still unresolved of being the 2019 gastronomy capital of Spain. problems with Catalonia. December 8th is another This is going to pull in many tourists, and “red” fiesta: ‘El Día de la Immaculada Concepción’, preparations are underway to plan the events for the Roman Catholic religious celebration of the the next year. This will hopefully rub off into the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

In the News Anti-Flu Jabs 94,200 doses of anti-flu vaccinations are now available to be administered in Almería province. The target population is persons over the age of 65, people suffering from chronic illnesses, and pregnant women. Older people not yet vaccinated against pneumonia will be offered these injections at the same time. Sectors of the population such as nurses, firemen, police, and prison officers are encouraged to have the anti-flu injections. Appointments can be made at health centres or contacting ‘Salud Responde’ by phoning 955 545 060 or via the internet. The injection period will run until the end of December. Persons unable to access Spanish health care can purchase the vaccine at chemists. Gastronomy Award Almería city has won the prestigious award of “Gastronomy Capital of Spain” for 2019. This was announced on October 17th by the Spanish Secretary of State for Tourism, Isabel María Oliver Sagreras, in Madrid. Almería city was chosen by a jury, and it is anticipated that the award will bring many new visitors to the area and the attendance of famous Spanish chefs. The city authorities now have to announce their proposals for 2019 to celebrate this award. Devastation in Málaga Anyone who was in this area in September 2012 remembers only too well the disastrous floods at Pueblo Laguna and Puerto Rey. Houses, commercial premises, and vehicles were completely wrecked apart from four fatalities. Málaga was put on a high red alert for flooding on the weekend of October 20th-21st and devastation on a much larger scale followed. As was the case at Pueblo Laguna, there is an Insurance Consortium who pay for damage following a disaster, and all insurance policies for houses, commercial premises, and vehicles have a small amount of money included in the premium to fund the consortium. Initial estimates were that as many as 5,500-5,600 claims would be made including an estimated

4,500 for housing and commercial premises damage. Two golf courses at Estepona and Marbella were badly damaged, and the total bill is put at about 28 million Euros. Added to this, about 1,000 vehicles were written off or badly damaged which is estimated to cost another 4 million Euros. 30 loss adjusters from the Insurance Consortium were drafted in to assess the damage with another 20 inspectors on loan from normal insurance companies. Sadly, a fireman was killed when his fire engine skidded off the road in a heavily flooded area. Not Good News October 1st was the anniversary of the illegal independence referendum in Catalonia that resulted in central government taking over the running of Catalonia and dissolving their parliament at the end of October. With all the uncertainty as to what was going to happen next, and with concerns that high corporation tax might be the result, companies started moving their registered head offices out of Catalonia. This meant that they would pay any tax due in these chosen places (Madrid and Valencia were popular), with perhaps a very small amount of tax in Catalonia. By December, when democratic elections had been called, over 3,000 large and medium companies had moved their registered offices to other locations. With no solution as yet politically, more companies are moving out and business confidence is at an all-time low. On June 30th, the investment in Catalonia had fallen by 41%, and financial analysts say this is equal to 35 billion Euros taken out of the economy. The Association of Hotel Operators in Barcelona reported a drop in income of 14% during the summer months, and new car sales are well down showing the worries of the general population. The new Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, is trying to open some meaningful dialogue with the government in Catalonia, but calls for independence by some hard-line MPs have not yet stopped. Autonomous communities (ours is Andalucía) receive central government funding, but there are always claims that money

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In the News is being held back. Pedro Sánchez has told the rooms and 6 single rooms and a day centre for politicians in Catalonia that he will release 1.4 billion 20 persons. The cost is 2.1 million Euros split Euros over the next four years. equally between the Almería Diputación (County council) and Mojácar town hall. The project for The Old Almería Station the Vera centre was also officially signed on In 1893 the old Almería railway station was built, October 10th with an Almería company who will designed by Gustave Eiffel who designed and built build and run the centre with a lease on the land the Eiffel tower in Paris. The station is a supreme for the next 50 years. It is near the bus station example of industrial architecture using large cast and is much larger comprising 8,150m2, with space iron pillars and large spanning girders, and walls for 51 double rooms, 18 single rooms and a day and roofs have a large amount of glazing including centre. In Garrucha, the project will start almost stained glass. Brick and stone features were immediately and should be open by October 2019 alternated with coloured glazed ceramic material, with 64 places for residents and 30 places in the and the whole building is very ornate. When the day centre. As is the case in Vera, the entire cost station was shut it started going to wrack and of 2.8 million Euros will come from the company ruin, but after considerable pressure, the Spanish that will build and run it with a lease on the land Ministry of Transport and the rail company ADIF for 75 years. Neither Vera nor Garrucha town hall announced that repair work would be carried out. will pay any money towards the cost. By next February, a 2.2 million Euros project to repair the main structure will be completed. Another project will be to equip the building with modern services of water, electricity and lighting. Almería city council have yet to decide the exact use that the restored station will have, but a social and cultural use is head of the list. Part of the station may well become a train museum. Care Homes for the Elderly As municipal elections take place in May 2019, politicians in town halls are very keen to announce or start projects that reflect favourably on their achievements. Prior to the elections there is a period when town halls cannot lay foundation stones or open infrastructure projects as this counts as electioneering. Three new projects for residential care homes and day centres for the elderly have been announced in Mojácar, Garrucha, and Vera. On October 10th, the construction project for the Mojácar centre was unveiled on the site that is only 300m from the beach in the Vista de los Ángeles / La Rumina area. The 13,000m2 site will have a 2,800m2 centre and is being constructed by Albaída Infraestructuras. The build time is given as being 14 months. The home will cater for 60 residents with 27 double

A 36 Million Euro Building Licence All town halls issue licences for building projects that until the 2008 construction crisis brought in serious amounts of money. A licence fee is charged which is a percentage of the project cost. It has recently been announced by Ada Colau, the relatively new mayoress of Barcelona city, that the very famous Sagrada Familia Cathedral has never had a building licence and an agreement has been reached with the church authorities who will pay 36 million Euros over the next 10 years. Ada Colau has stated that the lack of a licence

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In the News was an “historical anomaly” that has now been rectified. Permission to start building was granted in 1885 in a municipality that was not then part of Barcelona city, but no money changed hands. The very famous architect Antonio Gaudí soon took over the design and building project but he died in 1926 after being hit by a train. Fully detailed plans were not available at the time of his death, but there were some sketches, and many other famous buildings that he had designed and built have been used as a reference. When finished, the cathedral will be the tallest in the world with the highest tower just over 150mts, and builders are working hard to finish it by 2026 to mark 100 years since Gaudí’s death. When asked in the 1920s for a possible completion date, Gaudí replied that his client was not in a big hurry, as he was God! Technically, the building is a Basilica as it was never intended that there was a bishop in residence, although the size of the building is larger than many cathedrals. The fee for the licence is not considered to be excessive as 4.5 million tourists visit the cathedral every year which brings in 100 million Euros so in 10 years this will be at least 1000 million Euros. Ada Colau has stated that of the 36 million Euros fee, 22 million will be spent on infrastructure improvements including a new metro station beside the cathedral, and 3 million on improving health and safety in the immediate vicinity. There is still a major problem that has to be solved. Gaudí specified a 300m boulevard leading to the front entrance and if this goes ahead 150 apartments will have to be demolished.

was in his trouser pocket and when his son rang him the police answered the call. The very large family that he belonged to came from Peru 20 years ago to live in Madrid. An autopsy was carried out to determine the cause of his death which turned out to be a heart attack. An initial theory was that he had been poisoned from gases in the sewer, but a representative of the Public Works Department stated that the drain was solely for surface water and no gas was present and it was not connected to the sewage system. Municipal Elections Last month we stressed the importance of residents being listed on the ‘padrón’ (the official list of residents in a municipality) and this month in an article we explain how elections in Spain work. Next year on May 26th municipal elections take place throughout Spain, and EU inhabitants in a municipality are entitled to cast a vote. This can only happen if before December 30th this year a person is on the town hall electoral roll, and to get on this voters list a person has to be over the age of 18 and on the padrón. It is very important therefore that if you want to influence who runs your town hall from May 2019 to May 2023 you must cast a vote. If you are on the padrón but not on the voting register (censo electoral) now is the time to go on it, so go to your town hall. If you are not yet on the padrón you should do this first and then register your right to vote. If you have previously voted in municipal elections you should be automatically listed on the censo electoral but it is worthwhile checking that this is still the case. For new registration a person takes along their passport and a copy of their padrón certificate. The form to register to vote is very simple and only takes one minute to fill in. Having done this a stamped copy showing the town hall has received it will be given to you to keep.

A Bizarre Death A police car in Madrid spotted the legs of a man protruding from a rainwater drain in the early hours of the morning, and paramedics called to the scene pronounced him to be dead. His car was nearby but he had no car keys in his pockets, and a magnet put down the drain hole retrieved them from the bottom. It is assumed that he inadvertently dropped them down the drain, The Arboleas Mine removed the cast iron cover that weighed 20kg, Arboleas is home to an enormous yeso (gypsum) and was trying to reach them. His mobile phone mine that dates back to Roman times. Some parts

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In the News of the mine were worked up to 1902, when it was sealed off, but starting in May 2017 major work has been carried out to clear entrances, map the complete structure, and turn it into a tourist attraction. It appears that Romans started the excavation in 350 AD and the yeso was taken to the ports of Cartagena and from Cuevas del Almanzora on a long journey to Italy. On September 21st, it was officially open to the public as a special event to mark the 10th anniversary of the death of Pedro Gilabert, the famous sculptor from Arboleas. Further work is being done to install lighting and improve the access. The mayor of Arboleas, Cristóbal García, explained that the importance of the mine was never understood, and it is intended that when fully open it will become a popular tourist attraction. The mine has been listed as being a major item of cultural heritage in Andalucía. Objects discovered by the archaeologists in charge of the exploration were recently exhibited at the Madrid Museum of Archaeology. Exports from Andalucía Figures from last January to July in Andalucía (which includes Almería province) show that exports went up by 9% compared to 2017, totalling 19.8 billion Euros. This increase is considerably more than the increase throughout Spain resulting in Andalucía ranking in 2nd place for the amount of exports in any autonomous community. In Almería province during this period, exports amounted to 2.4 billion Euros, also up on 2017. Fruit and veg exports form a large part of exports, and growers recently went to the UK with a “road show” to increase imports into the UK. Current thinking is that Brexit will (hopefully) not result in any decline. Mayor or Mayoress Salaries The Spanish Institute for Politics and Public Functions has published their latest list of the salaries paid to mayors and mayoresses in Almería province. Ramón Fernández-Pacheco is the mayor of Almería city and he receives 77,677 Euros. This

is very slightly less than Gabriel Amat who is mayor of Roquetas de Mar, but also President of the ‘Diputación’ (Almería county council). His annual salary is 77,994 Euros which is almost as much as the 79,756 Euros paid to the Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez. In a municipality such as Almería city with 150,000 – 300,000 inhabitants, the maximum salary allowed by the regulations is 80,000 Euros. The salaries of Ramón FernándezPacheco and Gabriel Amat are 16% more than Susana Díaz, the President of Andalucía, receives with 8.4 million inhabitants! The annual salary of the mayors in Albox and Huércal-Overa is 50,000 Euros, in Arboleas and Cantoria 40,000 Euros, in Los Gallardos 34,200 Euros, in Garrucha 35,350 Euros, and in Mojácar 43,400 Euros. The mayors of Turre and Zurgena are paid a lot less, 25,000 Euros in Turre, and 20,720 Euros in Zurgena. In 31% of the 8,124 municipalities in Spain, the mayor or mayoress draws no salary at all, either because of the very sparse number of inhabitants, or they have chosen to not draw the salary they are entitled to. A Very Tragic Death A father in Madrid habitually took his 21 month old baby girl Marta to nursery school, and the mother collected the baby when the nursery shut. In early October, the father had arrived at the nursery when he had an important phone call from his employer. Very tragically he locked up his car as he always did and went to a metro station to continue his journey to work, but his daughter was still in the car. Nobody subsequently noticed this as the car had tinted windows. When the mother went to collect the child she was told the baby had not arrived at the nursery and it was established from the father that the baby must still be in the car. Most unfortunately, after being left in the car for seven hours the baby had died. Police initially arrested the father who was later released and it will be up to the Fiscalía (Spanish crown prosecution service) as to whether he will be charged with a criminal offence. Another baby aged 10 months died in Manacor this August

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In the News when her grandfather forgot she was in the car, for a second time. A government ministry has and in 2009 a 3 year old boy died in similar ruled that issues with the land needed, circumstances. environmental considerations, and insufficient consultation with the beach bar owners who claim Incentives to Buy New Cars they will lose trade, means that the project cannot In 2019 the cost of a litre of diesel fuel for normal go ahead. Manuel Zamora, a PSOE councillor in motorists is to be put up by 3.8 céntimos to bring opposition, and Jessica Simpson, the councillor it up to the same price as petrol, but professional from the Somos Mojácar party, state that this drivers will not have to pay the surcharge. From means any future attempts to carry out the 2012 to 2016, subsidies from the Spanish promenade extension paperwork and obtain government and the motor manufacturers were permissions will not be possible before the May put in place to encourage the sale of new vehicles. municipal elections next year. The mayoress of This was initially 2,000 Euros split between both Mojácar, Rosa María Cano, has reputedly told a parties, later reduced to 1,500 Euros, if an old local Spanish newspaper that the council will vehicle was scrapped. This was to stimulate new continue to work towards the extension project vehicle sales and was very successful resulting in taking place as it stands at present, without the purchase of 1.2 million vehicles. A proposal is negotiating with the beach bars. that a similar subsidy for persons who scrap old diesel fuelled vehicles that are over 10 years old will be put into place in 2020. There may well be improved incentives to purchase hybrid or electrically propelled vehicles. The association of vehicle retailers has criticised this proposal being announced now, as they consider that sales in 2019 will take a dive whilst buyers wait for incentives in 2020. Mojácar Paseo Plans on Hold The Mojácar paseo (promenade) extended from the stables and roundabout leading to La Parata down to the Red Cross building has transformed this part of Mojácar beach. It has proved very popular with residents and tourists. The next phase from the Red Cross to the beach area opposite the campsite is far more contentious. There are several beach bars, and the area they occupy will be reduced, and access to the beach will be from the beach bars across the promenade and down steps. One of the sticking points is the placement of the paseo with regard to what is known as the maritime boundary. The proposed width of the promenade is 6mts, and then 1mt for a garden, and another 1mt for a cycle way. A new legal appeal by the owners of the largest beach bar has resulted in the plans being halted

Cannabis Legal to Grow and Sell? Recently, the growing and sale of cannabis has been regulated in Canada which joins nine US states and Uruguay where it is already regulated. The Unidos Podemos party in the Spanish Parliament is proposing similar regulations in Spain. Pablo Iglesias, who is the head of the Podemos Unidos party, is suggesting that licences should be issued to persons who want to grow marijuana and the sales and purchase prices fixed legally. The smoking of cannabis would not be allowed in public places, solely in the home or in special clubs. A Spanish survey of drug habits in 2017 revealed that 90% of the young persons surveyed stated

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In the News that it was easy, or very easy, to acquire cannabis. Legalization that would include a tax can bring in large amounts of money. In 2016 and 2017 in Washington State the tax there brought in 315 million dollars. In Colorado 300 million dollars of the income has been spent on public works, particularly new schools. In the nine states in the US it is considered that cannabis sales are no longer attractive as a criminal activity for wholesale production by drug barons. It is very doubtful that the proposals in the Spanish Parliament will be put into law at present, but it has certainly opened up the debate. A Bomb Ingredient Register In August 2017, the massacre in Barcelona took place when an Islamic terrorist drove a van at high speed into the Rambla area to kill as many people as possible. Fortunately, after 45 seconds the driver’s airbag was triggered and this shut down the electronics so the vehicle came to a halt. The same day a similar event took place in Tarragona when a car containing five other terrorists started off down a promenade. A cool headed policeman opened fire and killed four of them. In reality, both these events were parts of a “Plan B” and were not the carnage that was intended to happen. The night before, a house blew up 200km from Barcelona and first impressions were that this was due to a gas explosion. It turned out that the house was a bomb making factory, and a premature explosion took place killing the “mastermind”, who was a local Imam, and two other people. 105 gas bottles were found at the scene along with bomb making material and it emerged that the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona was the real target. Antiterrorist police discovered that 200kg of assorted chemicals had been purchased quite legally, and the bomb was designed to be made according to a formula known as “The mother of Satan”. New regulations have now been put in place by the Spanish Minister for Security, and businesses in Spain who sell material that could be used to make a bomb now have to keep a register, obtain identity

documents from purchasers, and verify why the chemicals are being bought. Any suspicious transactions or attempted transactions have to be notified to the anti-terrorist police. There have been some regulations in force since 2013, but sellers did not always record sales. The terrorist purchased 500 litres of acetone from three suppliers which should have been reported, as acetone is a “category 2” prohibited substance in large quantities. The registers will have to be kept by drug companies, chemists, garden centres, pool chemical outlets, hardware outlets, and supermarkets, and inspectors will check that these registers are in place and being observed. Apart from acetone, purchases of chorine, sulphuric acid, and substances containing nitrates, will now have to be recorded, or denied in large quantities. If the bomb had been detonated outside the cathedral where large numbers of the public queue to get in, the result would have been wholesale carnage on a very large scale. The Number of Builders At the end of September there were 12,500 people registered in Almería province as being in the construction industry, which is 3% less than in 2017 over the same period. Throughout Andalucía the total is 192,000, and this is the same number as in 2011. The construction industry was hit very hard in 2008, and between 2011 and 2012 there were 300,000 less workers. In 2008 13.6% of the workforce in Andalucía was in the construction industry, but this has now fallen to 6.3%. Part of the problem is the glut of new properties that belong to banks after mortgages to construction companies could not be paid and the banks repossessed them. Added to this there are large numbers of second hand properties on the market for the same reason. Tax on Maternity Benefit Annulled The Spanish tax authorities try to levy tax where they consider it appropriate, and this includes refunds of mortgage costs that the taxman considers to be income, and the government

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In the News subsidies known as the PIVE schemes where persons were given a subsidy to purchase new vehicles. Maternity benefits are given for 16 weeks which are the salary or wages amount for four months. In general, this can be an average of as much as 6,000 Euros. Mothers receiving these benefits have to declare them on their annual tax forms and pay the corresponding amount of tax. The Spanish High Court have now ruled that the tax has to be refunded and legislation is that refunds or tax owing cannot be claimed or deducted for more than four years. This means that maternity benefit tax from 2014 has to be paid back. The estimated refund total is 256 million Euros per year, so a total of just over 1 billion Euros. A mother in Madrid received 8,900 Euros in maternity benefit in 2013 and did not put it on her tax return. The new ruling is the culmination of various court cases to decide if she should have to pay any tax. The refunds will also apply to paternity benefit. Figures for Almería province are that the refunds will cost the tax authority 61.5 million Euros and applies to 18,000 women and 195 men. In Andalucía as a whole, 193,000 women can apply for a refund, and 2,450 men, totalling 688 million Euros. The Hacienda (Spanish Tax Authority) has announced that they will publish the procedure for refunds but to make all of them is a colossal undertaking that cannot be done quickly. The official Consumer Organization Facua state that they will be studying the proposals and will give their own guidelines for people entitled to ask for refunds. A Demand from Rogelio Mena at Albox Last month we reported that the ex-mayor of Albox, Rogelio Mena, had completed the ban on holding public office (so not being eligible to be a councillor) for 30 months. The ban was a result of him being convicted of consistently refusing to supply documents to councillors in opposition that they were fully entitled to see. In early October, the town hall received a letter from Rogelio Mena demanding that he was immediately re-instated as mayor for the remainder of the

months up to May 2019 when new municipal elections have to be called. If this did not happen he threatened legal proceedings. The demand came as a bit of a shock as to be elected as mayor a person has to be a councillor, and Rogelio Mena is not a current councillor. The town hall considers that there are other legal reasons why this demand does not have to be met. On October 10th, Rogelio Mena was summoned to court in Almería city for the start of another court case alleging the use of council funds for personal benefit. The Fiscalía (Spanish Crown Prosecution Department) is asking for another ban on holding public office for 8 years along with other penalties including an 18 month (suspended) prison term. Mojácar

The Prettiest Towns and Villages Mojácar and Lucainena de los Torres received the prestigious official awards of being one of the 18 ‘Prettiest towns or villages in Andalucía’ in 2013 and have a plaque recording this. Each town or village meets with other ones to jointly promote their location, and the number of visitors in each one has gone up as a result. The El País national Spanish newspaper recently held their own survey of readers to vote for the top 30 prettiest towns and villages throughout Spain with less than 10,000 inhabitants, and in order of votes cast Mojácar came in at number 27. Other towns and villages chosen in Andalucía were Frigiliana in Málaga (number 11), Grazalema in Cádiz (number 17), Cazorla in Jáen (number 21), Pampaneira in Granada (number 23), and Setenil de las Bodegas in Cádiz (number 24).

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In the News Albox Fine & Restitution Cost Albox town hall surfaced 6,000m2 of land in the river bed to provide parking, but this was done without permission from the Junta de Andalucía, and it would not have been forthcoming as it is in a river bed where any type of construction is not allowed. The town hall has been fined 6,000 Euros and has to dig up the 10cm of asphalt and restore the riverbed to its original state. The cost of this is given as being 80,000 Euros for the main surface area of 5,800m2 and pavements. If this is not done, additional fines may be levied, and if the Junta de Andalucía carries out the removal of the car park themselves the cost will almost certainly be more money. The cost of the construction, demolition, and fine totals 150,000 Euros. Pedro Quiles is the spokesperson for the PP political party in Albox and he has met with technicians from the Junta to see if there is any alternative solution. He states that when Albox town hall was told in 2017 that the parking area was illegal there was no appeal at that time, or any discussions with the Junta. In another court case, the High Court in Andalucía have ruled that Albox will have to make a refund of probably 500,000 Euros, to the company that disposes of organic rubbish collected in our area. 45 municipalities use a large landfill site in Albox, and in 2013 the town hall voted to charge a fee of 12 Euros per tonne. The High Court ruled that Albox town hall did not have the authority to make the fee per tonne and the landfill site came under the jurisdiction of the Junta de Andalucía. The amount of money collected since 2013 is stated to be about 500,000 Euros and Albox town hall has to pay 6,000 Euros towards the court costs. Albox town hall has stated that they will mount an appeal. Another Suspicious Death Ana Julia Quezada is the partner of the father of Gabriel Cruz and she is on remand in Almería accused of murdering the nine year old boy. A monster search was finally stood down when police found the body of Gabriel in the boot of

a car that she was driving. The allegation is that Gabriel was probably murdered only one hour after he disappeared on a 100 metre walk from his grandparents’ house to his own house, and Julia had taken him to another house that she and the father were renovating prior to moving in. A spokesperson from the Guardia Civil Police has stated that the death of her four year old daughter in 1996 in Burgos is being reinvestigated as a suspicious death and possible murder. At the time, Julia, from the Dominican Republic, was married to a Spanish man and they had their own young child. The four year old fell from the 7th floor of an apartment, and Julia told the police that her daughter was prone to sleepwalking. To fall from the window the child had to stand on a table and open the window, and at the inquest a verdict of accidental death was made although the police stated that from their tests some force would have been required to open the window. Police in Burgos state that at the time, Julia had told them that she was so highly stressed after the event that she was unable to make a full witness statement but there were contradictory versions in the statements she did make. Her husband, who was a lorry driver working nights, was not in the apartment at the time, and he told the police that he was not aware of the young child being prone to sleepwalking. Coping With Queues People queuing to enter tourist attractions such as museums and cathedrals often find there are long queues with no information as to how long it will be before they can get in. In Florence in Italy at the Uffizi art museum they have introduced a mathematical algorithm to solve the problems with 3.4 million visitors every year, and delays of up to two hours in peak periods. The algorithm takes into account the time of year and hours of opening each day, the maximum capacity for ease of movement, and special periods when there is a major exhibition. Potential visitors sign on to their website to be given an entry time that is accurate to 15 minutes which

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In the News greatly reduces the queues and allows visitors to go somewhere else first if they wish to. Investigation revealed that groups of visitors tend to spend less than 40 minutes in the museum and are primarily there to take photographs, and 3% stay there for four or more hours who arrive midmorning and stay until the afternoon. The vast majority of visitors are there from between two to three hours. There is also a sliding scale of admission charges depending on the time of year. Initial results are that the new system works well and it will be extended to other places where there are large numbers of tourists. This sounds a very good idea for many tourist attractions in Spain with large numbers of visitors.

regulations that in real-time they had to be informed of the identity of people in holiday lets for security reasons, just the same as with hotel guests.

Combating Plastic Waste Almería province has an enormous amount of fruit and veg producers who cover their growing areas with plastic. The Junta de Andalucía (the governing body for Almería province) has announced a grant of 6 million Euros that is available to town halls to clear the existing waste plastic and set up a way of dealing with it in the future, including the provision of large skips. Part of the grant will be used for the collection of waste from the growing process. Sanctions can The Problems with Holiday Lets be levied against growers who do not comply with Regulations relating to the registration of holiday the new regulations but it is hoped that this will lets are the responsibility of the autonomous not be necessary. communities or large cities, and in our case Andalucía has their own regulations. Isabel Oliver, More Health Professionals the Spanish Minister for Tourism, recently chaired The Health Department of the Junta de Andalucía a “round table” to discuss the problem with has announced that up to the end of this year interested parties. There have been many 126 persons will be employed to increase the complaints from residents in blocks of apartment health care in Almería province. The vast majority that companies such as Airbnb were listing of these new jobs will be created at medical apartments in the block, and there were major centres to bring the total number of employees problems with security and noise. Isabel Oliver put up to 2,000. This will cost about 73,000 Euros and forward the proposal that communities of owners further spending of 4.2 million Euros is planned had their own legally binding regulations and for 2019. All the jobs of every description that should be able to vote as to whether owners could include some administration staff will be sub-let. She suggested that if 75% of owners permanent. So far this year 949 improvements in voted against the idea, sub-letting could be the hardware and software of computer banned. Isabel stated that the Spanish State could equipment at heath centres have been carried not introduce their own legislation which was the out. responsibility of each autonomous community or city, but it was plain that more regulations had The Torrecárdenas Centre is Now Open to be put in place. She suggested that her The very large commercial centre alongside the department could ask for a comprehensive list Torrecárdenas hospital in Almería city is now open. of all properties where short lets took place The largest companies who are there include throughout Spain, and this list would be made Primark, Leroy Merlin, Mediamarkt, Cortefiel , Zara, available to the Spanish tax authority as the owners Pull&Bear, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Stradivarius, of these properties have to declare their holiday Mango, H&M, Blanes, Sfera part of El Corte Inglés let income under Spanish tax laws. She also pointed fashion, Kiabi, Adidas, Sprinter, Perfumeria Primor, out that the Spanish Ministry of the Interior had Urban Planet, Lefties, Osho, Women’s Secret,

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In the News Intimissimi, Deichman, and a 10 screen Yelmo Cineplex. Restaurants include VIPS, Foster´s Hollywood, Muerde de la Pasta, Udon, Tagliatella, TGB, 100 Montaditos, McDonald’s, Dunkin’ Coffee, and Taco Bell, in a dedicated eating area, and 5% of the outlets are for the purchase of food, including Mercadona. In all there are 120 establishments taking up 60,000m2 with 3,000 free parking spaces. The centre is by far the largest one in Almería city and the catchment area is considered to be 300,000 people. The construction by the promoter Bogaris Retail has cost 120 million Euros and the number of direct and indirect employees is given as being 2,100.

A Zurgena Cannabis Cultivation Specialist drug police in Lorca obtained information that there was a rural marijuana growing area in Zurgena that supplied cannabis to destinations in Europe. Police from Almería province raided an outlet in Zurgena that on the face of it sold oranges and ornamental flowers grown in seven greenhouses. In four of them they found 2,400 marijuana plants, together with 24kg of marijuana heads, and large quantities of cannabis in 10 gram packets. A 45 year old Spanish man was arrested. The police stated that by sending cannabis to Europe the price obtained was two to three times the value in Spain.

Chinese Tourists Tourism from China is becoming a very large force to be reckoned with, partly because of sheer numbers. In 2017, some 135 billion Chinese tourists spent the equivalent of 234 billion Euros worldwide, but only 6% of tourists have passports at present, although 10 million passports are being issued every year. Spain has not been in the forefront of attracting Chinese tourists but a target figure was 1 million tourists by 2020. Some people involved in tourism thought that this was a pipe dream, but in 2017 a total of 718,000 came here, 23% more than 2016. In 2017, some 2.5 billion tourists went to the US, but with increasing conflict with China since Donald Trump became president the US in becoming less popular. They particularly object to unfriendly behaviour by the immigration authorities. No longer perceived as a “friendly” country, Chinese tourists are looking elsewhere. Rafael Cascares is the head of the Spanish organization ‘Fotec’ which collate statistics of tourism and he states that Spain has not done enough to entice Chinese tourists here. He points out that the tourist department, Turespaña, still doesn’t have an office in Shanghai and he says that getting visas to come to Spain is not as easy as it could be. Apart from sheer numbers, Chinese tourists spend a lot of money on their holidays as the economy in China is booming, and their average stay is 14 days, far higher than the average.

Food Cost in Supermarkets The ‘Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios’ (OCU) is an official Spanish consumer body that carries out various surveys and makes recommendations following some investigations. From May 2017 to May this year, they surveyed 174,000 supermarket prices of 242 basic products in 64 cities. Their survey revealed that there was a difference in price that amounted to 3,000 Euros per year. They stated that of the big chains, the French owned Alcampo was the cheapest, closely followed by Mercadona, and Carrefour was in third place. The most expensive were the online trader Ulabox.com, El Corte Inglés and Supercor. In various autonomous communities there are

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In the News regional chains of supermarkets such as Dani & Cash Fresh in Andalucía, and their prices were often very competitive. They stated that prices in one of the Sánchez Romero supermarkets in Madrid, that was the most expensive outlet, were 70% more than the cheapest which was a Dani supermarket in Granada. The figures showed that on average, depending where they shopped, it was possible to save 947 Euros a year, 3,000 Euros in the case of Madrid, and 1,500 Euros in Barcelona. Although prices at Alcampo were slightly cheaper than Mercadona, Alcampo only has 60 hypermarkets, 35 supermarkets, and 40 mini-stores in petrol stations, with 9% of the market. Mercadona has 1,600 supermarkets in Spain with 24% of the market, apart from online sales. A Cruel Scam Young children who need very specialist treatment for severe illnesses that involve treatment abroad, touch the heartstrings of the general population when appeals are made for money. Nadia Nerea, a young girl in Lérida in Catalonia who is now 12 years old, suffers from a very rare disease known as Trichothiodystrophy that affects the hair and skin, and can cause brain damage, stunted growth and premature ageing. Treatment for this problem is very difficult but it is not life threatening as such. Her parents set up an association in 2009 to appeal for funds with the initial explanation that Nadia had to be taken to the US or else she would die. A visit to a specialist clinic in Paris was another location where she went. Other claimed journeys for specialist treatment were to Russia, Finland, Brazil and Afghanistan. The parents are in court accused of collecting an estimated amount of between 1-1.5 million Euros fraudulently. Spanish medical experts state that treatment in Spain is as good as any other treatment abroad and there were no magical solutions. The court was told that it appeared that 2,200 Euros had been spent on medical treatment, but none of the hospitals where Nadia was supposedly treated had any record of her

staying there. It is alleged that the names of doctors that were stated to be experts in the disease when appeals were made on Spanish TV were fictitious. The father claims that the treatment in Houston in 2013 cost 50,000 Euros but it is alleged that on the dates he said they went to Houston all three were in Mallorca on holiday. Photographs allegedly taken of Nadia and her father in Disneyland in Orlando were actually taken in Paris. The father agreed that he had purchased a new luxury car from the funds collected on the grounds that it was needed to take Nadia to see specialists. Police stated that the father had a collection of watches that cost between 50,000 and 60,000 Euros. Money collected was allegedly used for private flights to Turkey and France for treatment, but prosecution lawyers stated that in their opinion Nadia had never travelled out of Spain except to France as neither the father nor Nadia had passports. During appeals for money the father claimed that he himself was suffering from terminal pancreatic cancer but in court he stated that he had been diagnosed with a tumour in his liver that turned out to be benign. The father has been on remand in prison since 2016 but his wife was granted bail. The ‘Fiscalía’ crown prosecution department is asking for a prison term of 6 years for each parent. When the fraud was discovered, two bank accounts were frozen but where the vast majority of the money finished up is not at all clear. Various Spanish newspapers and TV stations have issued apologies to the people who sent in money from their publicity campaigns and stated that it appears they were duped. Another Blow for Banks There has been a lot of discussion and court cases in various parts of Spain regarding a tax that people buying a property with a mortgage have to pay. This tax is called “Actos Jurídicos Documentados” or AJD. The tax to pay is based on the mortgage amount and varies in different autonomous communities. In our case in Andalucía

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In the News it is 1.5% which is the highest percentage in many parts of Spain, but it is only 0.75% in Madrid, and 0.5% in Navarra and the País Vasco. On a mortgage of 200,000 Euros in Andalucía the 1.5% AJD tax is 3,000 Euros. There is a reduced percentage in Andalucía of 0.3% if a person below the age of 35 buys a property with a mortgage less than 130,000 Euros, and a rate of 1% for people with a disability of more than 33% who buy a property with a mortgage of less than 180,000 Euros. Courts have previously ruled that a client with a mortgage should not have to pay any expenses directly related to the granting of a mortgage such as the property valuation cost, legal fees from the lender, and notary fees for signing a mortgage document. The Spanish High Court has now reversed a previous ruling and has stated on October 16th that the AJD tax has to be paid by the lender, not the client. Banks will now have to refund the tax but as yet it is not clear whether this might relate to AJD tax on mortgages signed in the last four years. (The previous four years is the normal legal period when refunds or payments are applicable). The nightmare scenario for the banks would be if the refunds have to go back to 1995 when the AJD tax was introduced. If this was the case the cost of the refunds is put at 18-25 billion Euros. On October 24th the Supreme court announced that a firm judgement would be made on November 5th with all the 31 judges debating the ruling again as it was not unanimous. 3,000 notaries were informed that in the interim period any mortgage documents signed should not specify who will pay the AJD tax. This will apply to about 20,000 mortgages so this is a fairly chaotic situation! Bank shares suffered badly when the ruling was first made known, with the IBEX (Spanish stock exchange) closing 1.5% down. Tourism Grants Almería city is one of 12 locations in Andalucía with a population greater than 100,000. The Junta de Andalucía is giving these 12 places a grant of 5 million Euros over the next four years.

At all of the places where the grants will be made available, the city councils have to match the investment themselves, and prepare a dossier of the areas where the money will be spent. Of the 8 capital cities in Andalucía, 20% of tourists come to Almería province so it is a popular destination. Projects that are being put forward include added facilities in the Cabo de Gata area, improved access to the castle (a very popular destination), exploring ways to attract tourists in the off season when sun and beach are not the main interest, opening up a gastronomy centre near the Almería city indoor market, and efforts to boost the film making in the province. Capturing more cruise ship business is also one of the objectives and many of these tourists come to Mojácar as part of planned tours. Women in Industry A study of the number of woman who are directors of major companies in Spain has revealed that it is still only 27%, the same as in 2017. There have been previous initiatives to increase this percentage but the numbers are static and women directors in Spain are far less than the European average. The Spanish Minister for Equality and Vice President of the Spanish government is proposing a legal framework to compel companies to increase the numbers of women directors. Carmen Calvo states that there is no shortage of women who are highly qualified but they are not being given jobs that reflect their expertise. The idea is that companies will have to increase the number of women to a target of 30% in 2019 and a higher percentage in following years. There is also a disparity in salaries with women doing identical jobs to men being paid 15-20% less money. Bank “Floor rates” Spanish courts and the EU court have previously ruled that the “floor rates” of interest put in mortgages by many lenders are illegal and abusive if this is more than the Euribor and a fixed percentage of tax from the lender. These floor

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In the News rates are termed “Cláusulas suelo”. Banks have to come to an agreement with the mortgage holder regarding the amount of the refund, but if not the mortgage holder can go to court. Judges have been appointed who solely deal with these claims and in the case of the judge in Almería city there are 3,200 claims to be adjudicated. About 275 cases are being dealt with every quarter so it is going to take several years before the ones before the court at present are dealt with. In 97.8% of the claims the court in Almería city has ruled in favour of the mortgage holder. There are 200,000 court actions submitted throughout Spain with 26,700 waiting to be heard in Barcelona and 20,500 in Madrid. Where there is a favourable ruling for the mortgage holder the lender has to pay the court costs. Health Cards in Andalucía Persons signed up to the health department in Andalucía have a special card that they use at chemists to obtain medication, and often they need to show this at doctor’s surgeries. Apart from the community of Madrid and the cities of Ceuta and Melilla, these cards can now be used to obtain medication throughout Spain. This works the other way round, and 62,000 tourists from other parts of Spain coming to Andalucía have been able to obtain medication in the last three months, and 8,700 in Almería province. A person with a prescription for regular medication who goes out of their autonomous community had to see a local doctor before they could visit a chemist, but this has now completely changed. 98% of all medication in Spain is obtained by the electronic format where doctors put their prescription online and they appear on the computers at chemists. Andalucía was one of the first communities which in 2003 tied in their health information with the Social Security information that instructs chemists how much money a person has to pay for prescriptions via their health cards. Intentions of the present Spanish Government are that this system, known as ‘Copago’ where a patient has to pay some charge, will be abolished.

Funding for Calar Alto The observatory at Calar Alto near Gérgal in Almería province has been struggling for funds for some time. A German scientific institute has been in partnership with the scientists for many years but they announced that they are withdrawing next December. The Junta de Andalucía (the governing body for Almería province) has announced that in partnership with the Spanish Scientific Investigation Department funding will be advanced from January 1st, 2019. The observatory is considered to be the most important in Europe, and many discoveries have been held as being of worldwide importance. Dozens of scientific papers are published every year, and one photograph they took was put on the front page of the National Geographic magazine. NASA has also praised the work that is done at the observatory as being of utmost importance for the understanding and investigation of astrology. Shorter Women The Spanish Ministry of Defence has reduced the minimum height regulation for women who apply to join the armed forces. Until now the

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In the News minimum height for both men and women has been 1m 60 cm. Women now have to be a minimum height of 1m 55cm. This change follows an EU ruling in 2017 that the same minimum height for both sexes was discrimination against women. A recent Spanish decision also relates to tattoos and body markings that women have that are not supposed to be visible when dressed in uniform. Women have to wear a skirt and high heels at official functions when “etiquette dress” is required although their normal uniform is trousers. A woman in Madrid took the Spanish army to a tribunal when she was refused entry because of a tattoo on her ankle that was visible when wearing high heels. The regulations have now been changed and “normal” uniform for both men and women is now defined as being long trousers and closed shoes. Hidden Drugs The beefed up police forces in La Línea area near Gibraltar continue to arrest and prosecute drug barons. Large extra numbers of specialist and normal police were drafted in last June after complaints that the area was completely ruled by criminal clans and families who were escaping major arrests. Police recently pursued two 4 x 4 vehicles from a small fishing port to two properties. In one of them they found a hydraulically operated false wall in a garage that hid space for another vehicle and the storage of drugs. In this room they found 900kg of cannabis resin and the police seized a revolver and a stolen 4 x 4. One of the vehicles the police were pursuing subsequently crashed into a wall and 700kg of cannabis resin was found inside it. At the second house the shower tray in a bathroom lifted up via a hydraulic jack giving access to a 30m2 room. In this case the hidden room was empty. Various people were arrested.

for damages because Facebook disclosed information to bodies such as Cambridge Analytica that was against data protection laws and this is alleged to have been negligent in regard to their clients. OCU started asking people on Facebook in May to sign up for a “class action” court case where all the claims are lumped together. 38,000 people signed up and Ileana Izverniceanu who is the head of OCU is asking for moral damages of 200 Euros per person. A previous Spanish court decision was that Facebook breached data protection laws when it exchanged information with Whatsapp and they were fined 600,000 Euros. This Spanish class action is the first one of its kind that has been launched. The OCU took legal advice from Euroconsumers where they are a participating member and official consumer organizations in Portugal, Italy, and Belgium. The court case may take a long time to be resolved but other consumer organizations are watching with interest. Mark Zuckerberg, the owner of Facebook, has previously agreed that their actions in this respect were incorrect and illegal but denied that any compensation has to be made.

Less Tourists But More Money It seems quite certain that the number of tourists coming to Spain in 2018 may well be slightly less than in 2017. The other side of the coin is that spending is up. Numbers of tourists coming to Spain this August has fallen by 2% compared to 2017, and is down to the same numbers as in 2011. A total of 10.2 million tourists came to Spain this August and so far this year the number (up to the end of September) is 57.3 million, only 0.1% more than last year. Despite this, spending went up to 62 billion Euros which is nearly 3% more than in 2017 during the same period. The average spending during the holiday stay so far this year is 1,131 Euros per person which is 3.7% A Claim Against Facebook more, and the daily spending is up to 139 Euros, The Spanish OCU organization, the official body an increase of 10%. Numbers of tourists from for Consumers and Users, has launched a court the UK and France are down in numbers but their case in Madrid against Facebook. This is a claim spending went up as well.

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In the News A Thumbs Up for Zurgena Every municipality has to have a planning document known as a PGOU that is a blueprint for future development, and this document has to be approved by the Junta de Andalucía (the governing body for Almería province). Future infrastructure, urban development, the provision of facilities such as subsidized housing, day centres for the elderly, residential homes, industrial areas, green areas and their public use, sewage treatment plants, and electrical substations needed in the future, have to be included. In municipalities where there are “illegal” homes the PGOU has to include their regularization. The obtaining of the approved PGOU can take years to achieve and invariably the Junta dictate modifications, so the process has to be started again. In Zurgena, the entire PGOU has now been finally approved, making it one of only a few municipalities in Almería province to have achieved this. The mayor of Zurgena, Luis Díaz, has rightly claimed that this is a historic time for the municipality and is the culmination of very hard work and many meetings with the Junta staff and technicians. Zurgena is one of the municipalities that is fortunate to have an English councillor. Jim Simpson runs an active blog that explains what is happening for the ex-pats in Zurgena, and when new municipal elections take place next May he has been a councillor for three terms, so 12 years. It remains to be seen whether he will stand again. The 2019 Spanish Budget Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister and leader of the PSOE party, became Prime Minister in June when a no confidence motion was successful in the Spanish Parliament and Mariano Rajoy from the PP party had to stand down. Out of the 350 MPs, the PSOE has 85 and the Unidos Podemos party has 71. This is short of the majority needed of 176 MPs and other parties make up the other 180 with the PP and Ciudadanos party having 166 seats between them. On October 11th, after some marathon meetings, Pedro Sánchez and Pablo Iglesias from the Unidos Podemos party signed an agreement for the proposals in the 2019 budget. One of the

agreements is that the minimum wage for full time workers goes up to 900 Euros a month in 2019 with 14 payments as employees in Spain receive an extra payment in June and another in November. Pensioners and civil service employees receive the 14 payments but for most employees the 14 monthly payments are averaged out over the year. Other proposals are that pensions are raised to include cost of living rises, and town halls and autonomous communities can fix rental payments in areas where there is a great imbalance because the influx of tourists artificially raises prices. Paternity leave for fathers will be made the same period of 16 weeks that mothers receive. Criminal offences for pickets will be reduced and a distinction between sexual abuse and sexual aggression is eliminated so that without an emphatic “yes” for sexual relations this means “no”. Income tax will be put up by 2% for those people who have more than 130,000 Euros of disposable income and 4% over 300,000. Town halls will have to pay more money for nurseries for children from 0-3yrs of age. Apart from Pedro Sánchez and Pablo Iglesias needing another 20 MPs to support their budget proposals, which will undoubtedly mean some horse trading, the EU have to give it the green light. The initial response from the EU financial gurus has been a request for more information rather than any indications that the budget would be rejected. Exports from Almería Using ‘Maersk’ The giant container shipping company Maersk started coming to Almería port three months ago, and containers collected are taken to their hub at Algeciras for onward travel worldwide. The multinational company Grupo Cosentino based in Cantoria, who export natural stone and composite products to 110 countries, are their main customer. This is followed by fruit and veg exports in refrigerated containers, and other industrial goods. Since June 20th, when the first container ship arrived at Almería port, 25,000 tonnes of cargo has been loaded onto 36 ships. In June 2,800 tonnes left Almería port, 5,800 tonnes in July, 9,200 in August, and 7,200 in September. María del Carmen

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In the News Ortíz, the President of the Almería Port Authority, states that within 12 hours of being loaded onto ships the containers are off-loaded at Algeciras. Up to the end of August 38,500 tonnes of goods left Almería port in containers which is 63% more than last year in the same period. Exports via the Maersk line account for a large percentage of the increase. The container traffic is not all just one way; there are also significant imported goods coming from Algeciras to Almería port. Finding New Markets in the UK & Ireland A delegation of 11 fruit and vegetable producers in Almería province recently travelled to the UK & Ireland to open up the market for more exports. In 2017 Spanish exports from this sector amounted to 1.8 billion Euros and 40% of this came from Andalucía. Exports to Ireland amounted to 97 million Euros with 44 million coming from Andalucía. Companies were invited to meet the growers from Almería at a hotel in Hyde Park and 25 companies attended this event and 11 in Dublin. 80% of the cost of the event came from EU funding with the Junta de Andalucía paying the remaining 20%. After Germany and France, the UK is the largest importer of fruit and veg from growers in Almería. Thumbs Down For Homeopathy health experts in Spain have written to María Luisa Carcedo, the Spanish Minister for Health, asking for immediate actions to ban “pseudoscientific” medication that is often sold as a homeopathic remedy. The health experts consider that many patients stop the correct treatment from doctors and hospitals to try alternative medication, and this can result in premature death. Last year Rosa Morillo, a respected economist, died from severe breast cancer after she discontinued her hospital treatment and used a homeopathic treatment instead for several months that her doctors stated was pseudoscientific, and completely useless. Cancer specialists at her hospital believe that if she had stuck with conventional treatment she might not have died. In many cases the health experts consider that claims of successful treatment from

homeopathic treatments are completely untrue, and companies offering many of these alternatives have no medical training or scientific investigation credentials. They say that making completely false claims are a criminal offence and the manufacturers should be prosecuted in court and liable for heavy awards of damages. The Spanish National Association of Homeopathy have replied that homeopathic medication is not intended to be a substitute for chemotherapy or traditional medication to recover from major surgery. They state that alternative medication should be used in conjunction with recommended treatment and can prevent side effects. The health experts have replied that patients are being duped and only comprehensive regulations will stop deaths!

Traffic Laws Proposed For Mobile Phones As we have mentioned recently Pere Navarro has returned to be the head of the DGT (Spanish traffic department). He is particularly concerned with the use of mobile phones in vehicles. A survey carried out by the insurance company AXA and the Spanish RACE (RAC) has concluded that 50% of drivers use a mobile phone either regularly or some times. Figures from the DGT are that distractions behind the wheel (predominantly the use of mobile phones) are present in 25% of all accidents, and 31% of fatalities. The AXA survey revealed that 16% of users of mobile phones use them to read text messages whist driving, 13% to send text messages,

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In the News and 13% to hold a conversation. Pere Navarro comments on the use of mobile phones in passenger aircraft that is banned, some aircraft having a blocking system that stops their use. In 2016 Steve Gooding, the head of the RAC in the UK, proposed that the same system should be applied to vehicles. One idea is that Bluetooth connectivity in a vehicle would shut down a mobile phone, or inbuilt devices that detect that the mobile phone is moving by use of a chip. In the US, Cupertino is a very large supplier of mobile phones and they use iOS 11 technology that shuts off any use when the mobile phone is travelling. Apple iPhones in the US reply to an incoming text message if the phone is moving that states that the person is driving, and Android in conjunction with Samsung has a vehicle blocking system that stops any use of the mobile phone except music and GPS signals. Some mobiles have the facility to display that there is a message that has been prefixed as being “urgent”, and in this case the driver has to stop to see what it is. Pere Navarro accepts that such a system cannot be put in place quickly, but this is his proposal to reduce accidents and deaths in Spain. A Row Over Palomares Ecologists in Action are claiming that the Spanish Nuclear Authority (CSN) has downgraded the amount of radioactive contaminated soil in Palomares that has to be removed. In 1966 there was a collision over Palomares between a US plane carrying four nuclear warheads and a tanker plane that was refuelling it. Two of the nose cones of the missiles that were jettisoned broke on impact with the ground and released plutonium waste. The amount of soil that needs to be removed was previously given as 50,000m2 but this has now gone down to 28,000m2. There have been meetings with representatives of the US Nuclear Authority for many years and the proposal that has never been put in place is that the soil is taken away for disposal in the US. John Kerry, then US Secretary of State, came to Madrid in October 2015 and signed a non-binding agreement that the waste would be removed. This was in exchange

for the US being given permission to drastically increase the number of US troops and aircraft at their base at Rota near Cádiz. So far there have been no concrete proposals for any action. Ecologists in Action state that the 28,000m2 is not sufficient, but the Spanish authorities say that it is, and is a result of a new formula, and existing radioactive guidelines have been revised without any risk to the local population. Kitesurfing Championships Osaïa Reding from Mojácar has once again excelled in the sport of Kitesurfing by gaining fifth place in the world championship which is especially impressive as at the age of 14 she is competing with the top stars in the adult category. Organized by the Global Kite Association Air Games, she had to undergo four tough tests in France, the Dominican Republic, Germany, and Spain, whilst competing with riders of all nationalities and being the youngest entrant. A special requirement was that of demonstrating proficiency in the "big air" technique of jumps and manoeuvres carried out in strong winds to attain the greatest height. Osaia is no stranger to stepping onto the podium with enviable sporting achievements. Last year she was world champion in her category, and in 2016 she was Spanish champion and a runner-up in Europe. Not long ago she was proclaimed French Junior Champion and always obtains high scores. Mojácar town hall are one of her sponsors. Cajamar Properties for Sale The Grupo Cajamar bank is trying to offload properties that are toxic bad debts to reduce their exposure and help their balance sheets. Cajamar have set up Haya Real Estate to sell these on and they recently put 3,750 properties up for sale throughout Spain with 1,800 less than 80,000 Euros. Most of these properties are in large or medium cities and towns and over 800 are in Andalucía with 520 in Almería province. A property in Roquestas de Mar with three bedrooms has been reduced from 87,000 Euros to 71,000, and premises in Huércal-Overa have been reduced from 101,000

In the News Euros to 91,000. Many banks where the mortgage figure was very high started off trying to sell at this price. Nowadays the prices have become more realistic as the prime purpose is to get rid of them! The special offers are in force until December 31st when Grupo Cajamar will assess the situation. A person buying a new property has to pay 10% IVA (VAT) with other amounts for various reasons. Sanitas 3.3 million Euro Compensation In early October the health insurance company Sanitas were ordered to pay 3.3 million Euros to the parents of a boy born in a private hospital in Barcelona. Their son was born in 2005 and it was ruled that there were severe deficiencies in the health care during the birth, particularly concerning a lack of oxygen that caused severe brain damage. It was stated that caesarean birth was delayed for six hours despite the deteriorating condition of the mother and baby. The son has had multiple

operations to reduce a severe motor deficiency and is blind. A lawyer specialising in medical health claims stated that there would be many more operations in the future and the house where he lived had needed extensive alterations together with the purchase of a special vehicle. The first part of the court case started in 2009 that was to determine if there had been negligence. This was agreed by a court in 2014 but Sanitas mounted an appeal that they lost in 2016. Sanitas claimed that there was no negligence on their part and the hospital and medical staff should bearthe blame, but this was rejected. The second part of the court case was to arrive at a compensation amount that a judge has given as 1.9 million Euros taking into account a range of occurrences and need for specialist medical support in the future. The interest on this sum of money amounts to 1.4 million Euros, totalling 3.3 million. This is the largest medical compensation amount awarded in Spain.

The AVE Bombshell

companies have now submitted their bids to build the stage from Pulpí to Vera where there will be a station, and work is supposed to start in 2019. In early October, the Spanish Ministry of Transport announced that two sections of the Murcía line and another one in Almería were being put out to tender at a budget cost of 444 million Euros. Continual promises are that the infrastructure for all sections of the line will be completed by 2021 and electrification finished by 2023 when the first AVE trains will arrive in Almería. The The line from France to Algeciras is known as “The journey time to Madrid will be cut from the present Mediterranean Corridor” and includes the section 7hr journey to a time of 3h 30m. from Murcia city to Almería city. Initially the AVE was going to carry on with a coastal route towards Granada from Almería city but the technical problems and extreme cost has meant that the AVE trains will only come to Almería city. Algeciras will be accessed from AVE trains that come via Madrid. e are continually commenting on the progress in our area regarding the ‘AVE’. These initials stand for “Alta Velocidád Española” (The Spanish High Speed train). The first AVE train was inaugurated in 1992 from Madrid to Seville to coincide with the opening of the ‘Expo 92’ event. There is currently 3,250km of track in operation which is the longest distance in Europe, and speeds of up to 300km/h are possible depending on the track.

The arrival of the AVE in Almería province is badly needed as the transport infrastructure from Madrid and Barcelona is not at all good. In 2016 some 115,000 passengers used the conventional trains on the Madrid-Almería line, but passenger numbers of 280,000 are predicted on the AVE. Prior to 2012 there was considerable work carried out in Almería province from the outskirts of Garrucha through the longest tunnels in Andalucía to Sorbas. Since 2012, when Spain had a new PP (conservative) government, there has been no progress on the outstanding stages needed from Pulpí (that is on the border of Murcia province and Almería province) to Almería city, which entails 10 stages. In 2015 a contract was awarded to the very large construction company SACYR to build the stage from Pulpí to Cuevas, but they pulled out in 2016 as they were not able to start work. This was because the rail infrastructure company ADIF did not yet own all the land needed!

All this seemed to be fine until a bombshell document has come to light. This document is a study of the enlargement and investment that is needed for the large Chamartín and Atocha stations in Madrid. They give the arrival in late 2019 of the AVE from Murcia to Madrid,but the AVE from Almería to Madrid and another line from Extremadura are scheduled for 2025, not 2023!

The delay until 2025 has not gone down at all well! The Ministry of Transport has quickly replied that the whole line will have trains running by 2023, but they will be special test trains to certify the whole line has been correctly built and is safe. On the completed 126km AVE line from Granada to Antequera this testing has already taken 10 Major investment is now being announced to months with no finish date as yet. The Ministry complete all the missing stages from Murcia to of Transport state that 2025 is unduly pessimistic the border with Almería and onwards. Construction - so don’t worry about it!

So Now You Know... Marmite In the late 19th century a German scientist, Justus Liebig, accidently discovered that brewer’s yeast extract could be concentrated and eaten. In 1902 the ‘Marmite Food Company’ was formed in Burtonon-Trent in Staffordshire where there were a large number of breweries. The distinct salty taste that not everybody liked led to the advertising slogan “Love it or hate it!” The picture on the jars is a “marmite”, a French earthenware cooking pot, and until 1920 marmite was sold in a similar container. From 1920 the container became a glass bottle shaped like a marmite. In 2014 in Canada, sales of marmite made outside of Canada were banned.

Electronic Keyboards Fender Rhodes in the US marketed a device called the “Pre-Piano” from 1946-1948 but the Wurlitzer company introduced the first electronic piano in 1955. Fender Rhodes followed on with their “Piano Bass” in 1960, and the 1960s was the era when electronic synthesisers were developed and first used in recording studios. They were extremely large, very delicate, and had no keyboard. Bob Moog invented the Moog synthesiser in 1964 that was a much improved model and he added a keyboard in 1970. Digital synthesisers were used in progressive rock starting in the 1970s and by the 1980s many famous groups used keyboards in their line-up. Smith & Wesson Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson from Connecticut founded the Smith & Wesson company in 1852 to make rifles. Samuel Colt’s patent for revolvers expired in 1856 and Smith & Wesson entered the revolver market. Originally called “The 7 Shooter”, their “Model 1” revolver became the market leader in 1857. In 1899 they introduced the .38 Military and Police revolver that became their most popular gun of all time, and 6 million have been manufactured. Sales of the .44 Magnum that they first manufactured in 1955 were steady in the 1960s but mushroomed in the 1970s when Clint Eastwood used one in the filming of “Dirty Harry”.

The First Televisions From 1922 to 1927 working TVs were demonstrated in the US using a mechanical disc scanning system and were sold to the general public from 1928. By 1935, pictures were displayed using a cathode ray tube that became the standard from then on. By 1941, experimental transmissions were taking place in many countries including the US, Germany, France and the UK, but on a very small scale. After WWII, the US company RCA started marketing the RCA 630-TS that became popular although expensive. In 1951, the company CBSColumbia introduced the first basic colour TV, and they sold it for $499.95, a lot of money then. Las Vegas Casinos In 1905, land was sold that became the city of Las Vegas and the first casino was opened in 1931. Thousands of people had arrived who were involved in the building of the Hoover dam. Gambling was then made legal in Nevada which was the first US state to do this. A much larger casino opened in 1941 on land that became known as “the strip” and gambling became extremely popular. More and more casinos opened up with Wild West themes and organized crime moved in. By 1954, a total of 8 million people stayed in hotels and went to the casinos every year. In 1966, Howard Hughes bought the Desert Inn hotel and casino and never moved out. MRI Scanners Raymond Damadian invented a scanner that used his NMR imaging invention in a safe and accurate way to scan the human body. The apparatus and technique became known as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and the scanner was first used in 1977 with a cancer sufferer. MRI scanners were commercially manufactured from 1980 and are used for imaging internal body structure and soft tissues such as those in the brain. The MRI system avoids any x-ray radiation exposure with no side effects. Modern scanners need a special concrete bunker called an ‘MRI Suite’ that is extremely expensive and the most advanced scanners cost £3 million.

Personal Mobility Devices

he mobility scooter was invented in 1968, and there are reported to be 80,000 in use in the UK. Initially designed for people with mobility problems, in places like Benidorm the situation has got entirely out of hand with young tourists and families using them for fun, without any mobility problems. Regulations in the UK and Spain are often conflicting in the two countries, and with all the new devices such as Segways, electric scooters, hoverboards and electric bicycles, there needs to be comprehensive regulations. Many people in the UK are not aware that “Class 3” mobility scooters that weigh over 113kg must have front and rear lights and be registered with DVLA. Current traffic laws in Spain prohibit mobility scooters for more than one person from both pavements and roads, as they are not then classified as being a disability aid. Despite this, they can readily be hired.

hoverboards on pavements so they have to be used on cycleways or the road. Whatever their potential top speed they cannot go more than 30km/h. In Madrid they are proposing to ban Segways, electric scooters and hoverboards from pavements, road surfaces, cycleways, bus and taxi lanes, and singlecarriageway streets. In large pedestrian areas there is a speed limit. In Granada, with many streets with steep inclines, electric scooters and Segways are banned from streets with more than a 15% downwards incline, and totally banned from the Alhambra Palace and neighbouring streets. So far this year there have been two deaths in Spain when a five-year-old fell off their electric scooter in front of a bus, and a man received fatal head injuries when he fell off one.

Mobility scooters in a hotel foyer

The Spanish DGT (traffic department) have three categories of small electric devices. Category “A” is devices such as electric scooters or hoverboards that cannot go faster than 25km/h. Category “B” is Segways and electric scooters or devices with seats with a top speed of 30km/h, and category “C” is electrically powered bicycles that have a top speed of 45km/h. There is no legal requirement for registration or a licence, nor insurance (although this is highly recommended particularly in the event of accidents and injury), and no legal requirement to wear a helmet, apart from electric bicycles.

Associations of pedestrians consider that any device with a speed of more than 4km/h (the average pedestrian speed) is incompatible with people walking. In most places a person using a mobility device can be fined or taken to court for being over A Servigroup hotel in Benidorm hit the headlines in the alcohol limit, or going the wrong way on a one2015 when they banned mobility scooters. At times way street. There are suggestions that using a there were more than 30 in their reception area mobile phone should be an offence as well. which became a real danger to guests, staff and furniture. The hotel pointed out that their rooms Recently, the Barcelona FC footballer Gerard Piqué suitable for people with reduced mobility on the lost his driving licence and he now goes round ground floor had special wheelchair access, and the Barcelona city on an electric bicycle. It is claimed appropriate ram ps outside and inside. that the top speed is 70km/h when it can only be 45km/h and the motor is over the power limit of With no national regulations, individual city or town 250 watts. Consequently, he should have insurance councils are coming up with their own ones. and a driving licence for a motorbike, but he has Barcelona is on the points of banning Segways and lost his licence!

What About Gibraltar?

he residents of Gibraltar voted overwhelmingly to stay in the EU, but what will ultimately happen next year is far from decided. Spain has a great interest in Gibraltar, as in an ideal world they would quite like it back from when it became a British territory and not Spanish in 1713! About 10,000 Spaniards cross the border to work in Gibraltar every day, and the areas they come from have high unemployment. After Brexit, which will include Gibraltar, people going in will be leaving EU territory, and people coming back will be entering it. Spain is saying that the status of all these workers has to be properly formulated for their protection. Pedro Sánchez, the relatively new Spanish socialist Prime Minister, has stated that he hopes negotiations with the UK and Spain will arrive at a “protocol” in October, or if not in November, and talks were going well. Gibraltar’s First Minister, Fabian Picardo, angrily dismissed this as being completely untrue. On his Twitter page he stated, “Her Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar can confirm that there is no separate bilateral process of dialogue between the United Kingdom and Spain in respect of Gibraltar in the context of Brexit or otherwise.” “Between a rock and a hard place” comes to mind. One of the subjects under discussion is the airport. The Spanish government consider that the land where it was built by the UK is not actually part of the British Overseas Territory. There have been suggestions that it would be jointly run, and Spain has been promising major investment in developing the airport if this took place. Pedro Sánchez, whose government is in place until 2020 when there will be Spanish General Elections, appears to be softening the approach to the airport. He is of the opinion that any decisions should be “in the future”, not now. He points out that after March next year there is a 21 month interim period before the final framework between the UK and the EU comes into force, probably in January 2021. He thinks that the airport could be subject to negotiations then.

One of the big problems for Spain is the very low price of tobacco and cigarettes in Gibraltar that results in serious smuggling. In 2017, Spanish customs officers seized 600,000 packets, up 158% on 2016. Spain wants the prices in Gibraltar to be raised to make illegal smuggling no longer a valid option. They point out that the cigarette imports into Gibraltar, if they were for consumption there, means that each of the 30,000 inhabitants of any age is chain-smoking 24hrs a day! Gibraltar

Another problem that Spain wants to solve is that at present Gibraltar is a tax haven. There are 50,000 companies registered in Gibraltar, and it is perfectly clear that many companies in Spain use the generous tax laws to avoid paying tax in Spain. The solution as far as Spain is concerned is to have more rigorous tax-residency requirements that would stop Gibraltar being a very popular off-shore tax haven for thousands of non-resident companies or individuals. The main EU/Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, appears to be firmly on the side of Spain, and he has had various meetings with Pedro Sánchez. Following one of the meetings, Michel Barnier tweeted that discussions had been “extremely cordial”. Apart from meeting with Pedro Sánchez he also met Josef Borrell who is the Spanish Minister for Foreign Affairs. A newspaper report stated that both men had agreed to find “the most positive things possible” (presumably for Spain). Talks are definitely ongoing!

Help with the Cost of Electricity

ver the years there have been many schemes in Spain designed to help people who find paying their cost of electricity is a real problem, or impossible. A scheme set up in 2009 did not work, and another way of tackling the problem was that the producers of electricity had to give discounts and stand the cost themselves. This was overturned in a court case in 2012 when it was determined that the job of the electricity suppliers was to supply electricity, not subsidise consumers in hardship. Consequently, a new regulation was that all consumers of electricity paid a small surcharge to cover the money that was needed.

of 25% off the electricity used by pensioners and homes with no children where the disposable income is less than 11,182 Euros annually. If there is one child, the amount of money goes up to 14,910 Euros, and with two children or a family with three children or more it is 18,637 Euros.

In 2012, after the financial crisis and high unemployment of 23%, over one million people had their electricity cut off. There was quite rightly an enormous outcry in 2016 when an 80 year old woman died in a fire in Tarragona. A candle she had been using set fire to her house after her electricity supply had been cut off for For people in severe economic hardship there is non-payment. a discount of 40% if the income is no more than 5,591- 9,318 Euros depending on the number of The “Defensor del Pueblo” is an organization that family members. The other criteria is the amount hears complaints from citizens at local to national of electricity used, so the amount registered on level, decides if there is a case to answer, and the meters in kilowatts. For a pensioner or a family issues a ruling that is legally binding. In 2017, a with one child it is a maximum of 1,680 kw, with judgement was that the whole system was two children a maximum of 2,040 kw, and 3,600 unworkable and had to be completely thought kw for large families. The yearly use is a new out again. The number of households cut off in proposal as up to now it has been based on the 2017 had fallen to 100,000 partly because of use every month. This is considered to be unfair pressure by central government to make the in summer months (particularly in southern Spain) electricity supply companies stop cutting off if there is a need for air-conditioning, or in winter persons in real hardship, but the ruling was that months (particularly in northern Spain) where it was still far from fool proof. Part of the problem heating is needed. Up to now the financial aid can has been that a great many people, not just with be discontinued from one month to the next. A financial problems, totally fail to understand how proviso is that the new terms only apply to the their bills are calculated and their right to apply main home of the various categories. for help. The organization ‘Eurostat’ who compile European The latest proposals from Álvaro Nadal, the new statistics state that the number of homes in Spain Minister for Energy, are designed to solve all the who experience financial hardship, particularly in problems and relate to disposable income and the winter months, is 10%. In Germany it is only 4%, amount of electricity used. There will be a discount in France 5%, and in the UK 6%.

Elections in Spain

n the normal course of events in Spain, elections in a municipality to choose a mayor / mayoress and councillors, to vote for the MPs and government in the autonomous regions (in our case Andalucía), and General Elections, take place every four years. There is no extension of this time period and elections have to be called. The government of an autonomous community or central government can bring forward their election date within the four year period for various reasons, but not in municipal elections. Next May 26th in every municipality in Spain, including the 103 municipalities in Almería province, persons entitled to vote can go to their polling stations. The councillors elected will serve until May 2023. EU members can vote in these elections and stand as councillors, but not in the autonomous or central government elections. As May 26th is within the transition period just after Brexit it appears that this will not change.

election is no longer the current format. Two new parties have emerged, the Ciudadanos party (another conservative party) and Unidos Podemos (a left wing party). This means that there is invariably a coalition government nowadays, and Susana Díaz from the PSOE party joined forces with the Ciudadanos party to achieve a majority and be voted in as president in 2015. This agreement has now broken down and is one of the reasons for elections on December 2nd. Susana Díaz wants new elections well before the May municipal elections. 8.4 million Spaniards can vote in these elections which is the second highest number of people in any autonomous community. The PSOE party ruled solely in Andalucía for an amazing 34 years from 1978-2012 but what will happen this year remains to be seen.

Susana Díaz

Voting in municipal elections is possible if a person over the age of 18 is registered to vote. As we explained last month, to go on the voting register a person has to be registered on the ‘padrón’, the official list of residents that is finalized every year on January 1st for the previous year. Being listed on the electoral roll is free, and persons wishing to influence who runs their councils have to go to the town hall before December 30th to register. If a person has previously voted in a municipal election they should be automatically on the register for 2019. If you don’t vote you cannot complain afterwards that you don’t like the political party or Central government is now ruled by a coalition and people who are going to run your town hall! Pedro Sánchez from the PSOE party is Prime Minister. Last June, a no confidence vote in parliament ousted Elections for the MPs and government who are in the previous Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy, from power in our autonomous region of Andalucía have the PP party who had formed another coalition. to take place in March next year, but the dates are General Elections have to take place in June 2020, different in every community. Susana Díaz is the but Pedro Sánchez is hoping that he can maintain current president and she has announced that his coalition until then. He in turn could call for premature elections will take place on December premature General Elections before then, but at 2nd. The two party system in Spain where the PP present he has no intention of doing this. He will party (roughly conservative) or the PSOE party be watching the results of the Andalucía (roughly a labour party) achieved a majority in every autonomous elections with great interest.

Mojácar Archaeology Report

t a meeting in Mojácar, a technical team from Granada University’s Biocultural Archaeology Laboratory in the Medieval History Department presented their initial data and findings relating to La Vieja, the old location of Mojácar village. The Project Director, José María Martín Civantos, began by saying how important the project is for the municipality as part of its cultural, social, and touristic development. He praised the Council's plan to open up its cultural heritage in this way, whilst promoting tourism and economic development and creating an extra identity for Mojácar.

these were due to structural failure or the Christian attacks that were taking place in the area at the time, during the re-conquest of Muslim occupied lands. Although it has not been possible yet to map out the entire wall, it is known that there were at least 13 towers spaced around the perimeter. Also, remains of houses with easily recognizable rooms have been found attached to the wall with items such as a bread oven, a latrine in perfect condition, and decorative remnants.

He stressed the importance of preserving the landscape shaped by men in prehistoric times as a fundamental element of the cultural environment, answering many archaeological and historical questions. In this case, the findings found so far date back to the 12th and 13th century revealed by work done on the first strata. Apart from adapting the access path, the team worked on the highest area by the cistern, which was already known to exist, and half way up the slope where there an access gate-tower and old wall. The ancient water cistern is the largest preserved example from the Kingdom of Granada and all of Spain. At 18 metres long, 4.5 metres wide and 2.3 metres deep this could have held at least 172,000 litres of water. Another cistern discovered in the same area was constructed at a later date and attached to the first one, on which a defensive tower was built. Other discoveries include a mosque, an ammunition store with stone balls, (which confirms the presence of a catapult mechanism) and other defences. The remains of what would have been a forge have been found, which confirms the presence of weapons and troops, later becoming a kitchen. At another location in the middle area, the entrance gate to Mojácar la Vieja was found which is an example of a door-tower commonly used at the time, that establishes the access route to the population centre. The wall characteristics reveal repair at several points, although it is unknown if

There are now doubts about the date of the settlement’s origin, and an estimate is around the 8th Century, with greater concentration of inhabitants in the 12th Century, when it takes on the character of a town with the mosque. There are still many questions to be answered that will be highly useful to discover more about the life style, and expand the study of the Middle Ages in Spain and Andalucía. What does seem clear is the gradual programmed abandonment in the middle of the 13th century from this site to the new location that we know today, offering a better strategic situation and fortification. The archaeologists consider that the settlement is in a good state of conservation, with "enormous patrimonial potential", offering a key to explain life at that time and the history that was of such importance to the entire Mediterranean region. Thanks were given to the volunteer archaeologists that came from all over Spain, Brazil and Italy to collaborate in the work.

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The Focus A-Z Directory

2000 entries!

This A-Z directory is the only comprehensive listing of all the businesses and services you routinely need, and can never find!

For a free directory entry, call 670 84 92 65 or e-mail almeriafocus@gmail.com Keep this magazine in your office, by your 'phone, in the car or beside your bed! It's unique and updated every month. Red line entries signify that there is a display advert for that advertiser.

ACCOUNTING Asesoría Forte (Vera) ..........................950 395778 / 682 372196

AIR CONDITIONING ABC (A Better Climate) (See p.29)...647 247494 / 950 092604 Asesoría López (Vera) ……...................................….950 393071 Cool Solutions ...........................................................600 621436 Asesoría Torres (Mojácar) .........................................950 472748 DCM Digitek Comms (Mojácar) (See p.19) .950 472947 / 670 084438 Asesoría Sánchez Moral (Mojácar) ...........................670 099726 Digital Vision (See p.33) ...................950 472081 / 645 294064 Electrotorres ........................................950 472898 / 610 750771 MD Air Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L. 607 364917 / 950 432110

Barbara Caparros Ridao (Vera) …..........................950 390427 CG Legal & Financial (Mojácar Playa) ..950 472504 / 670 215926 Cabrera Cervantes (Turre) ................950 099400 / 627 464545 Cazorla Martinez (Turre) .........................................950 479137 Cervantes Alarcon Consulting (Garrucha) 950 106490 / 647 863787 Concepción Rivas Gil (Arboleas) ….....950 438092 / 647 577716 Flores Montoya Asesoria S.L. (Garrucha) ..................950 132577 Gecko Legal Services S.L. (Mojácar) 950 475949 / 638 264621 Gestoría Salvador (Mojácar Playa) ................................950 473 192 Mayor Consulting S.L.(Mojácar) .................................950 615185 Mojácar Playa Asesores ……................…….…………950 472710 Sintra Consultores (Vera) …......................................950 393815 Vera Advisors (Vera) ………………..................………950 390621 Villalba Asesores (Albox) ..........................................950 431720 Richard Hayes ...........................................................603 567676 Solo Satellite & Air-Con. (See p.55)...950 398146 / 699 909737 ACUPUNCTURE Williams Electrical (Andy)........................................…..677 741366 Acupuncture Antonio Herrero ......................................670 099725

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AIRPORT PARKING

Delfos (Mojácar) ......................................................647 163681

AA Parking (Almería, Murcia, Alicante) ......................639 081067 Aqua-Car (Alicante) ……………........................................966 790 011 Coastline Alicante Airport Parking .............................661 517890 Plane Parking S.L. …………............................................966 840 289 ...............(24hrs Alicante) 656 532725, (24hrs Murcia) 656 532724 Seguro Parking (San Jávier – Murcia) ……............622 062115 Victoria Parking (Alicante).................................................965 830 254

Angel Pardo (Técnico) .......................950 121960 / 687 939315 Antonio Martinez de la Casa .....................................950 092094 Blas Haro Morales ...................................................950 615345 Daniel González Aranda (Vera) ......................................686 846 624 Elena Acebo Architects (Huércal-Overa) .669 680098 / 950 134976 Paula Puente (Mojácar) .............................................610 433001

ARCHITECTS

AIRPORT TRANSFERS (LEGAL) Exclusive Airport Shuttles (See p.11)......................950 092602

ART & ARTISTS Adolfo Prado ...............................................................950 472668 Alison .......................................................................630 833873 Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 Caz (art classes) ………................................……….607 444034 Dee Butler (Albox) ................................................….663 341904 Delfos Gallery (Mojácar) …........................................647 163681 Evie Fox ................................................................ 603 493163 Isabel Raths (Bedar) ................................................677 034957 Jeremy Fox-Rayner ...................................................653 714767 Jill Bennett (Mojácar) .........................950 478383 / 600 070188 Living Design (Albox) ...............................................678 308073 MarianMay Simpson …...........................………..……629 113436 Melanie .....................................................................638 495784 ALARMS & SECURITY Miki ...........................................................................628 458491 AC Security ........................................950 387822 / 657 397218 Roberto Lombardi ................................950 930757 / 671 800317 AXA .........................................................................950 478763 The Gallery (La Concepción) ..................................607 146352 CD Electrical Services ......................662 414043 / 617 410534 Prosegur Alarms .........................................................608 825509 AUCTIONS Safes & Security (Dean)...........................................666 949213 A & A Auctions (Albox) ………..............950 064576 / 661 759882 SE Telecoms ..............................................................697 780499 Securitas Direct (Phil Lennon) .................................696 116803

Auction Subasta SL (Zurgena) ...........622 288750 / 681 095096 Location Warehousing S.L. (Antas El Real) ..............950 528565

ANTIQUES

AUTOMATIC DOORS & GATES

Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 The Metal Works (Albox).......................950 930520 / 638 900949

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AWNINGS & BLINDS

Las Buganvillas

Curtains with Style (Interior blinds) ...950 069032 / 678 811125 Costasol S.L. (Lloyd Dean) (See cover)...........................667 652 888 Coverbox (Albox) …................................................…615 992007 Cristalería Omega (Mojácar) …..........950 478137 / 670 500711 Lifestyle Enclosures Europe S.L. (See p. 9) 950 459060 / 638 063196 PersiVera 2005 S.L. ..................................................627 978635 Sol Shaders S.L. (See p.45).....................................627 907207 Speedyfit ...................................................................600 006032 Toldos Farrago (Vera) ...............................................667 567564

Gnomo Feliz II ..........................................................950 132350 La Colonial ……………….........................................….636 140307

Los Gallardos Apolo ……………................................................……600 495182 Meson Verfran ………...................................................637 810143

Mojácar Bar Alizee ...............................................................950 091810 Bar Esencial ...............................................................618 826092 Bar Luz ....................................................................654 866110

BABY See Children & Baby BAKERIES Cornish Pride (Albox) …................................………666 618933

BARS & CAFES See also Restaurants Albox Bar Lepanto ................................................................642 906638 Cafe-Bar Oasis ………......................................…....669 242166 Chapman’s ...............................................................642 447663 Cornish Pride ...................................................………666 618933 La Palmera ….............................................................950 430993 Maloan’s Bar ….........................................................850 993205 The Travellers Inn, Los Marcelinos ...........................642 011900

Alfaix La Venta de Alfaix .....................................................671 272464

Antas Bar Gloria ...................................…….950 453150 / 625 668613

Arboleas Hotel Rural Azabache ...............................................690 258813 Humbugs Cafe …......................................643 123253 / 643 075387

Bédar El Paso ...................................................................678 868963

Cerro Gordo Bistro Bonita .......................................650 599739 / 950 930169

Cortijo Grande Casa Los Pinos …............................................…….950 468236

Cucador La Vida .....................................................................950 634562

El Campico (Bédar-Lubrin) La Montaña .............................................................670 589788

Beachcomber ..............................................................634 339216 Burladero ……..........................................................950 615041 Cafeteria Bellagio .......................................…………950 472323 Cafetería Pizzería Alcazaba ………...........................645 414793 Café Latino ...............................................................626 717323 Captain's Tapas Bar & Restaurant...............................617 477797 Cave Bar ...............................................................…..950 478799 Delfos .......................................................................647 163681 Dolce Vita .................................................................950 478476 El Ángel (Mojácar Pueblo) ..................950 478343 / 607 537101 El Antler ………...........................................................600 540661 El Barrio Libre .............................................................950 475739 El Deseo ....................................................................670 018035 El Toro .....................................................................622 456560 Enrico ...................................................950 472995 / 642 514738 Fany …………...........................................………….634 312820 Jazz Life Café (Mojácar Pueblo) ........................…….647 724367 Koi ….........................................................................950 615452 Kukis ........................................................................686 038259 La Cantina (Mexican) ................................................950 478941 La Parata (See p.7).....................................................950 478186 La Piká .....................................................................950 930744

Garrucha Tierra y Mar .............................................................850 992808

Huércal-Overa El Capricho …..........................................................697 297235 The Hub ......…………….....................................……950 135039

La Alfoquía Bar La Unión ...........................................................642 Bar Los Mellizos ……….........................................…667 Cielos …...................................................................634 El Local ……......................................950 634449 / 633

008003 919025 393235 684855

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La Taberna (Mojácar Pueblo) ....................................647 Los Amigos .......................................…………………950 Lucer ………..................................................……….673 Martinis ....................................................................950 Mesón Felipe San Bernabé ................950 475966 / 631 Mesón Mémé ……………...........……….674 141159 / 647 Mimi’s Bar ..................................................................651

724367 Bar Restaurant Laguna ……….........................……..950 132566 478489 Grace’s Bar ................................................................950 532339 544617 Pub Millionaire ....................................950 617467 / 637 255978 285330 301368 954405 872604

San Juan de los Terreros Mi Cortijo ………......................................................…950 466323

Turre Moca Cafe Bar …......................................................950 452885 No 353 (Mojácar)..................................950 104937 / 662 164424 Playa Blanca (See p.63)....................950 473001 / 639 507520 Rincon de Zahorí ................................630 314400 / 625 103672 Rose & Crown (See p.15)........................................634 796884 Rusty Nail …………....................................................950 472786 San Pedro Belgian Bar .............................................722 485340 Scotty's …...................................................................687 382540 The Emerald Isle .....................................................950 475391 The Irish Rover (See p.43).........................................950 473135 The Lemon Lounge .............................................….950 472659 The Loft …..........................................950 472432 / 690 756196 The Roof Garden .................................................674 113218 Trufibar ....................................................................664 103611 Twister (Mojácar Playa) ........................………………950 472357 Valery Music ..............................................................950 615537 Wine Not? ............................................................... 950 100077

Alice’s Bar ……….......................................................677 Chili ...................................................950 468425 / 608 La Pará ……………............................................……637 Rosie Lees .............................................................643

161705 802227 545590 198600

Valle del Este Hole in One Karen’s Bar ......................950 461068 / 677 655790

Palomares

Vera

102 Tapas Bar …………...........................……………..615 157905. Asagía Asador ........................................................640 210185 Centro Plaza ................................................................950 618614 La Dulce Casa ….................................................…….950 467768 The Oasis Bar ....................................950 467381 / 676 365010

Vera Playa

Casa de la Vega ......................................................950 391208 La Amistad …………….…......................................…666 622085

Bar La Reva .................................634 398465 / 618 541115 El Balconcito .............................................................635 589909 Frankie’s Bar (See next page).........950 467541 / 622 649469 Piedra Amarilla, Partaloa La Buena Mesa ……............................950 467222 / 610 356387 Lorena’s ...................................................................634 397621 La Peperina .............................................................677 420243 Pueblo Laguna Restaurante Tibu .....................................................950 133747 The Blue Parrot ......................................................950 467682

Villaricos Bar La Plaza Villaricos .........................................…950 El Galeon ……...................................................……600 La Casa del Siret ....................................................950 Los Conteros .....................................950 618629 / 699 Lucky Bar Pizzeria ...........................................…….647

You Can Always Find it in the Focus! To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

467590 559379 467777 010705 073598

Free directory entries.

Call 670 84 92 65 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com 24hr Casaserve ...................................950 466438 / 676 306269 ABS Advanced Building Services ..............................687 846016 Cerrajería Jara (Las Buganvillas) ……………………..950 109986 Cristalería Omega (Mojácar) …..........950 478137 / 670 500711 Diamond Bathrooms ..................................................671 717149 Dorothy Bathrooms (Albox) .........................................661 463842 Enrique Aguirre S.L. (Garrucha) .................................950 460028 Mojácar Home Improvements..............950 473104 / 689 296432 Shower Master screens ...........................................677 604497 SpeedyFit (Screens) ..................................................600 006032 Toldos Farrago (Screens)(Vera) ................................667 567564

BEAUTY See Hair, Health & Beauty BED & BREAKFAST Casa Barranca (Huercal Overa) ....... 95 0952947 / 648 250699 Casa Jasmine (La Alfoquía) ......................................950 449513 Casa Montes Guesthouse (Arboleas) ..................... 686 400331 Castellón (Bédar) .......................................................642 435909 Las Persianas Azules (Velez Rubio) ..950 068054 / 630 149622 Hostal La Parata (Mojácar) ........................................950 472670 The Palms (Urcal) …………......................................678 832036

BEDS & BEDDING BARS (BEACH BARS)

Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 Aku Aku (Mojácar) .(See previous page).950 478981 / 607 347612 Furniture Plus (Puerto de Mazarron)...968 153907 / 678 083491 Alma (Mojácar) …......................................................950 805928 Me & Mrs Jones (Los Llanos market) ......................0044 7850 840288 Ankara Beach Terrace (Mojácar) ………........………..950 473042 Sleepcentre (Albox) (See p.6) ..........868 931872 / 671 715294 Armony Beach Club (Vera Playa) …......……………..617 745021 Chiringuito Manacá (Mojácar) .....................................600 045599 Costa Tranquila (San Juan de los Terreros)..664701457 El Cid (Mojácar) ...................................950 472063 / 696 056128 El Patio (Mojácar) ........................................................629 287265 Hola Ola (Mojácar) ..................................................664 097279 Lola Bbme (Palomares) ……………….634 062350 / 657 303043 Los Tarahis (Agua Amarga) .......................................950 138235 Lua Beach Club (Mojácar) …......................………… 950 472643 Mandala Beach Club (Mojácar) ................................902 442420 Maraú (Vera Playa) ………...........................…………671 580340 Maui (Mojácar) ……...................................................950 478722 BICYCLE HIRE Neptuno (Mojácar) (See p.41) ...............................…616 005387 Sol y Arena (Mojácar) ..............................................950 478308 Aguila Bike (Las Buganvillas) ........................................950 133063 Tito’s (Mojácar) ..........................................................950 615030 BiciStar (Vera) ……............................................……667 024001 Trufibar ....................................................................664 103611 BikeRun Sport (Albox) …………………950 930190 / 678 166252 Ciclos Mountain Bike Aguilas …..........................……968 413984 BATHROOMS & SHOWERS Dazzlem (Vera Playa) ...........................627 818719 / 673 589874 Doltcini (Mojácar) ................................950 092600 / 658 028646 Lufran Bike Sport …………....................................….607 074753 Mountain Biking Spain …...............……637 831509 / 661 178656 Rodeca Bike Zone ..................................................950 132525 Weekend Sport (Las Buganvillas) .........................950 460738

BICYCLE SALES, MAINTENANCE & CLOTHING Aguila Bike (Las Buganvillas) ........................................950 133063 BikeRun Sport (Albox) …………………950 930190 / 678 166252 Doltcini (Clothing) (Mojácar) ..............950 092600 / 658 028646

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Lufran Bike Sport …………....................................….607 074753 Leroy Merlin, Gran Plaza (Roquetas) ….................……950 339800 Rodeca Bike Zone ..................................................950 132525 Sanyfer (Antas El Real) ………....................................950 459082 Weekend Sport (Las Buganvillas) ............................950 460738 VeraSur SL (Vera) ....................................................950 393028

BLINDS see Awnings & Blinds BOATS & NAUTICAL

BUILDING SERVICES

24hr Casaserve ..................................950 466438 / 676 ABS Advanced Building Services ..............................687 Veramotor S.A. ............................................................950 392552 Adam's Building Services .............................………..600 BOAT TRIPS Alan Barker ........................................950 099913 / 600 Glass Bottom Boat (Villaricos port) ….......................662 604456 AlmeriaBuilders.com ……......................659 685133 / 950 Orca Steve (Mojacar, Garrucha) ..............................634 352873 Partylevante (Puerto Deportivo Garrucha) ...............680 942141 Red Line Coast Tours ….....................950 133082 / 687 189230

306269 846016 041820 268176 930520

BOOKS Librería Nobel (Vera) ................................................950 Tabernas Books …..............................663 121256 / 676 The Book Box (Albox) ……................................…….662 The Book People Almería …........……686 817945 / 626

392642 256083 585098 578164

BOOK PUBLISHING Costa Books ............................................................634 304344

BOWLING CENTRES (10 pin) Almería Ten Pin Bowling (Arboleas) …...................….950 439013 Ozone Bowling Mojácar ............................................950 473073

BUILDING MATERIALS (& Sanitary Ware, Tiles etc) Aridos Mojácar S.L. ……..........................................650 914257 Brico Depôt (Huércal de Almería) …........…………….950 625652 Casa Conchillo (Albox) …..........................................950 430740 Contrucciones Angel Oller (Albox) ...........................950 431453 Comercial Vera (Vera) ........................902 112236 / 950 393329 Enrique Aguirre S.L. (Garrucha) .................................950 460028

Andalucian Con Co Print .................................….…..628 408197 Andaluz Building Services.......................................…950 439094 Antas Building Company …..........…..........................661 075802 Arboleas Building ………........……….950 930536 / 634 306690 Armadillo ........................................…......................950 528128 Ben Foster Building Services (See p.61)..................642 471236 CES Builders (Paul) ................................................685 017178 Charlie Fyre ..............................................................686 833444 Construcciones DISACA (Mojácar) ...........................639 817778 Constructions Martinez Moreno (Rambla de Oria) ….696 052044 Cutler’s Carpentry .................................................697 907708 Daniel ……………..................................................….642 236810

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DAGA Construction ……...................................……686 846624 Mat Murray ...............................................................647 841750 David Croft (Urcal) ………....................................……661 148067 MD Building Services ..........................628 414861 / 628 414862 David Pritchard Construcciones ................................617 698418 Nash Groundworks ..................................................722 546192 P & S Building Services ……...….…….950 449639 / 671 318982 PR Building Services ................................................662 422170 Paul Acreman (General Builder) ..............……………607 196779 Professional Bricklayer ……………........................…..626 730764 Property Consultation & Project Management (Tom) 603 670218 Saxon’s Complete Building Services ....618 920126 / 968 485729 Valley Construction ..............…………..665 517643 / 610 905173 Valoser Obras .........................................................642 016954 Vision Design and Build ........................950 459523 / 600 985583

BUTCHERS Ávila (Vera) …….................................................……663 126062 Casa Jose (Garrucha) ..............................................950 132573 Juan’s Carniceria (Mojácar Playa) ........................950 478409

CAKES TO ORDER Crazy Cakes Almeria .......................634 335821 / 634 Joan's Cakes & Bakes (Albox) ..................................678 Moca Cafe Bar (Mojácar).........................................950 No 353 (Mojácar)..................................950 104937 / 662 Occasion Cupcakes (Velez Rubio) ............................634

345558 166272 452885 164424 329403

CAMPSITES Camping el Cantal (Mojacar) ................................... 950 478204 Deco-house (Ismael) …………....................................670 596085 Camping Los Gallardos .............................................679 970399 Diamond Plastering and Building Services .................671 717149 Campsite Marion (Vera) .............................................607 316553 Elegant Homes S.L. ..............................950 092603 / 687 629777 CAR HIRE Garden Works ...........................................................666 847583 Al Andalus Car Hire ...................................................664 269440 Genco Construction ...................................................607 271869 Auto Corner (Limousines) .....................950 069198 / 667 439671 Hire a Husband …………............……..677 557 190 / 950 930596 Caracola (Mojácar) .............................950 473157 / 637 545814 J B General Builder ................................................. 687 024884 Jasmine Construction C.B ...................................... 659 185189

Costa Coches (Mojácar) ........................950 459208 / 950 069272

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Free directory entries.

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Europcar ............................................950 615101 / 654 297681 Mo-Car (Mojácar) ................................950 478307 / 626 976973 Solvi Car (Mojácar) …………....................................950 478151 SRS Vehicle Services ................................................950 449095 Tikka RentaCar (Mojácar) ............................................950 472662

CAR WASH & VALETING Autos Gowi (Garrucha) ........................950 806066 / 607 863939 Integral Autos (El Real) ...........................................950 459304 Jones’s Mobile Valeting ............................................661 571939

Cutler’s Carpentry .................................................697 907708 Go2 Joinery & Services ...........................................674 963957

Khaled - Valeting (Mojácar) ......................................671 715285

CARD SHOPS C.A.T. Services (La Alfoquía) (See p.31).950 634388 / 627 635514 Colin the Card (Albox) .........................................…..650 600032 Forget Me Not (Las Buganvillas) ............................663 302740 Total Entertainment (Albox) ......................................950 121318 Total Entertainment (Arboleas) .................................678 009051 Total Entertainment (Mojácar) ……….................……950 615596 Total Entertainment (Turre) .........................................950 468295

CARPENTRY

Inspired Timberwork ..................................................610 988371 Mojacar Carpentry & Home Improvements ...............603 688622 Simon the Woodworker .............................................667 989270 TJ Carpentry (Albox) …….....………….619 584405 / 635 979829 Unicraft …..............................................................…692 176069 Vision Design and Build ........................950 459523 / 600 985583 Wildwood Bespoke Joinery ......................................634 328574

CARPET CLEANING

A.N.S.T.E.Y - Carpentry & Joinery ………...............687 251629

Jones’s Mobile Valeting ............................................661 571939

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CATERING / EVENTS

Alexandra Coll (Clinic Reverdy-Coll) ......................616 673116 Clinica Podológica (Garrucha) ..................................950 132768 994435 Kim White (Vera Playa) ………...................................637 149659 851135 CHIROPRACTOR 479305 Maximilian Bolté (Garrucha) .............950 133515 / 650 700783 920126 CIVIL ENGINEERS 006032 Isabel Morales ........................................................617 749105

See also Wedding & Party Planning Elite Cuisine ..........................................................610 Hog Roasts .............................................................671 La Capilla Restaurant (Las Alparatas, Mojácar) .......950 The Whole Hog / Hog Roast parties ..968 485729 / 618 Soft Ice Cream and Frozen Yoghurt Machines............600

CATTERY see Kennels CHILDREN & BABY

Baby Basics (Equipment Hire, Albox) ........................950 104345 Brian’s Furniture (Equipment hire) (Mojácar Playa) ...674 280268 Mobility Almería (Mojácar Playa) ..............................634 322475 Meditania, Children’s Activity Centre (Turre) ...........661 751244 Menudo Park (Mojácar) ............................................627 830499 Funky Monkeys, Pre-school Group (Mojácar) .....……697 264179 Smartie Pants the Clown ............................................617 815221 The Baby Hire Centre ..............................................615 806126

CHIMNEY SWEEPING & REPAIRS Paul the Chimney Sweep …………..617 150300 / 850 993057 Sammy Sweep ..........…............................…………..619 070839

CHINESE & ASIAN RESTAURANTS Casa Sun (Mojácar Playa) ......................................950 099914 Chino Peking (Garrucha) .............................................950 132948 China Town (Aguilas) ................................................968 414786 Chino Tsing-Tao (Aguilas) ........................…...............968 448548 Dragon Chino (Las Buganvillas) ..................................950 133226 Gran Muralla (Albox) ................................................950 120166 Gran Muralla (Turre) ……............................................950 618880 Palacio Imperial Marina (Mojácar Playa) ….................950 472208 Restaurante Asia - Maribo Kitchen ...........................950 110420

CHIROPODIST & PODIATRISTS

CLAIRVOYANCY / PSYCHIC READINGS Anna (Tarot) ……….........................................………670 897832 Chrissie Cremore ....................................................634 349638 Psychic Karen (Turre) …..........................................678 118108

CLOTHING (Personalized) AdverTees (Mojácar Playa) ......................................634 33678

Rascals Designs ............................... 950 064665 / 686 582140 Tikka Uniforms (Mojácar) ….......................................667 479903

CLEANING SERVICES A1 Cleaning ..............................................................666 340190 Amba Cleaners ........................................................697 516955

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Chris .......................................................................627 565049 Clean Sweep ………..........................950 469345 / 662 390453 Clean Team …………..............………850 993202 / 694 440184 Cherie's Ironing & Cleaning (Mojácar) ............………634 301389 Crystal Clear ............................................................637 229464 Daisy Proaño Alcivar (Contract & private) ……...….663 538596 Elite Cleaning Agency ........................629 113860 / 699 699617 Freshclean …………….........................659 353708 / 638 272482 Idea (Mojácar) .. ......................................................605 162709 Jone’s Upholstery & Rug cleaning ….........…………661 571939 Limpiezas Cristina ….............................................…660 306695. Limpiezas Maxlim (Palomares) ……...678 567783 / 629 680161 Upholstery & Leather Cleaning ...................................636 193256

PhonePC (Garrucha) .................................................950 133502 PRYS Informatica (Antas) ........................................617 382511

CONSERVATORIES Screenmasters (See p.45)......….…..........................677 152911 SpeedyFit ........................................950 472357 / 600 006032

COUNSELLING / HEALING

Ashlí (Naturopath & yoga therapies) .......................643 102335 Acupuncture & Massage ...........................................637 120429 Barbara Clarke ...........................................................637 469937 Chrissie Cremore (Reiki)............................................634 349638 Donald Mackinnon (Hypnotherapist) ........................628 651022 Emotional Freedom Technique/Healer …....................645 290728 Eve Morgan .............................................................647 203652 COMPUTERS Fred Smithers (Acupuncture) ...............950 930456 / 618 107351 Advance Digital ........................................................616 506569 Gill Ballard (Healer/Counsellor) ...............................663 336655 Beep (Garrucha) ……………..................................….950 133059 Heaven Scent Holistics ...........................................663 923733 Compleo Personal I.T. Centre .................................….950 393689 Hypnotherapy (Karen) ............................................678 118108 Dr. Jane Thompson (Psychotherapy)...968 485729 / 618 920126

Computer Care (Nick) ...............................................600 070075 Computer Services (Dani) ..................678 490639 / 630 007430 Connexions (Turre) (See front cover).......................950 479502 C.Y.G. Vera ...........................................................950 393350 Don Robinson .........................................................646 587746 Dynos Informatica (Albox) …………...................……..950 430806 First Call Computer Solutions …......618 539500 / 628 251399 George Boricean .....................................................661 375489 IKamale-on ……………...............................................950 616521 Mark Adamou (Mojácar) ........................634 324918 / 634 306799 Mi PC (Almeria) …..............................................….950 633015 Mr. Micro (Turre) ....................................................950 479502 Palomares Computer Services ..................................659 353708 Kate Roberts ...........................................................950 469540 PC Playa (Mojácar) ......................................................634 356498 Lucy Lovejoy (CraneoSacral Therapist) .....................647 045919 PC-Solutions (Mojácar) ..............................................637 459293 Malcolm Forrest-Hazell (Counsellor/Psychotherapist) ...693 489725 Norman & Carole Monro ..........................................950 439205 Sara Vigar (Aromatherapy) .......................................665 334895 Shiatsu (Wendy) ....................................................671 851135 Sue Osman (Healer) ………...............950 473021 / 600 847964

COURIER DELIVERIES Nacex (Mojácar) ………..................................……….950 472940 Offex Spain ................................…….......................966 765950 Spanish Property Choice (Easypost) ..950 615388 / 635 722290

CRAFTS Elaine's Wools (Arboleas) ........................................667 273889

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Free directory entries.

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Serendipity (Albox) ................................................617 699624 Dentalbox (Albox) .........................................................950 121284 Simply Art (Albox) …...................................................662 443095 Nadal Pérez, M A (Turre) .........................................950 479444 Odonto Stetic (Los Gallardos) ...........722 706732 / 950 398993 CURRENCY Puerta de Vera (Vera) ........................................950395319 Currencies Direct (Mojácar) ...............950 478914 / 626 916443 Valero Martinez (Garrucha) ………............................950 132047 Eurochange (Mojácar) ................................................615 403877 DIET PLANS & WEIGHT LOSS Global Currency Exchange (Mojácar Playa) ..............950 615319 Ashlí (Naturopath & yoga therapies) ..........................643 102335 CURTAINS & SOFT FURNISHINGS Image (Helen) ........................950 930192 / 665178326 Curtains with Style (See p.21)...........950 069032 / 678 811125 Issysweigh (Albox) ...................................................600 334318 Pam (Turre) ..............................................................639 465631 Vicki (Turre) .............................................................650 764623

DIGGER HIRE Antas Mini Diggers .............................950 069288 / 650 906114 Aridos Mojácar S.L. (Vera) .....................................650 914257 Bob (Mini digger) (Albox) ..........................................642 392922 Diego Ramos S.L. (Los Gallardos) ……..............…..647 841750 Elite Plant Hire (JCB) ………….................................636 092632 Lubrin Plant Hire (Mini and Micro) .......950 592922 / 664 327898 Mick (Mini Digger) .....................................................634 375428 Nash Groundworks ...................................................722 546192 Curtainsandthings.................................................……678 684564 Paco .................................................................................637 777 238 Solo Style ………...............................950 528334 / 626 319907 Tropicana Mini Digger ………………650 906114 / 950 069288 Unicraft Upholstery ...................................................692 176069

DIVING See Scuba Diving DOCTORS & CLINICS (Private)

Centro Médico Mojácar ...............................................950 475105 Clinica Medica Garrucha ……...........950 133157 / 617 404500 Dr. Maria Rose (Garrucha) ..........................................950 132803 Euroclinicas (Vera) ........................................................950 391300

DOG GROOMING Anita (5 Bone Kennels) …………......................……662 344734 Brigbe’s Dog Grooming ...........................................630 557123

CYBERCAFES Can Connect (Albox) …........................................…..950 The Hub (Huércal-Overa) …............…………………..950 Servidea 2020 (Mojácar Playa) .................................950 Total Entertainment (Albox) ......................................950 Total Entertainment (Arboleas) .................................678 Total Entertainment (Turre) ........................................950 Total Entertainment (Mojácar) …….............................950

121149 135039 399726 121318 009051 468295 615596

DAMP PROOFING Southern Spain Damp Proofing .................................652 358672

DENTISTS / DENTAL TREATMENT Centro Dental Dr. Cremades (Vera) ........................950 390655 Clinica Dental (Aguilas) ….........................................968 449121 Clinica Dental (Albox) ..............................................950 120732 Clinica Dental, Multicentro (Mojácar) ........................950 478989 Clinica Dental Palomares .....................950 109710 / 670 878427 Clinica Dental, Parque Comercial (Mojácar) .............950 478534 Clinica Dental Saludent (Huércal-Overa) ……………..950 135672 Dental Clinic Belen Oliver (Olula del Río) ................950 443265

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Elite Dog Grooming (Albox) …….…..617 313587 / 647 897533 Luis (Clinica Veterinaria Garrucha) ....950 132200 / 628 663616 Lulu’s (Albox) ...........................................................600 046557 Pampered Pooches (All areas)..................................662 344734 Paws & Claws (Palomares ...........+44 7828251913 / 686 501593 Shampooch professional pet grooming ........................642 276442 SoloPerros (Turre) ..................................................674 509382 Ulti-Mutt .....................................+44 7894747657 / 634 332578

DOG TRAINING Didi Arias (Mojácar) ……............................................639 724521

DOORS See Windows & Doors DRY CLEANERS City Sec (Vera) .........................................................950 390255

DVD & VIDEO The Hub (Huércal-Overa) ….........................………..950 135039 Cinebank (Turre) .......................................................627 738957 Total Entertainment (Albox) ......................................950 121318 Total Entertainment (Arboleas) .................................678 009051 Total Entertainment (Turre) ...950 468295 ...(Mojácar) 950 615596 VHS to DVD conversion .. ........................................647 202599

ELECTRICAL GOODS Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 Centro Comercial Almanzora (Olula del Rio) .............950 442012 Centro Ferretería Lopez Mojácar ...........................950 473111 De Pablo S.L. (Vera) ..............................................950 390129 Electro Ahorro (Albox) .............................................950 121069 Electro Hogar Rodriguez S.L. (Garrucha)..................950 460832 Economesticos La Juaida (Viator) ……………………..950 315560 Euronics .............. (Albox) 950 430702 (Garrucha) 950 460832

ELECTRICIANS A1 Services ………..............................635 810941 / 679 631458 Abbott Electrical ….............................638 010691 / 950 137208 Andrew Morrison .....................................................627 250204 Anglo Electrical ........................................................671 948213 Andy …..............................…................950 438237 / 679 656450 Baltasar .....................................................................655 691107 Charlie Fyre ................................................................686 833444 Connexions (Turre) ……..............................………….950 479502 DJT Electrical Services (Vera) .............686 817945 / 626 578164 ElectroTorres .....................................950 472898 / 610 750771 EMI Electrical Installations .......................................673 502867 Fernando (Huércal Overa)...........................................677 549247 Francisco Montoya (Mojácar) .........................……….687 466352 José Cortés Electrical ……................950 363751 / 619 881325 N.E.Electrics (Arboleas)...........................................634 358777 Peace of Mind 24/7 ............................................... 637 974662 Williams Electrical (Andy)......................................…..677 741366

ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES Jules Clothing (Montemar Centre) ...........................633 640918 Voluta's Place (Parque Comercial Mojácar Playa) ….699 975552

ENTERTAINERS Abbie Lou (Female vocalist) .......................................687 340544 Amy Amy Amy Tribute Band ....................................645 886919 Ashley Cathcart .......................................................693 486788 Bass Player with Vocals .........................................681 286291 Belly Dancer & Fire Eater ....................................... 680 124159 Blues Brothers ........................................................680 355376 Bob Management .......................................................666 310251 Brendan O'Dee (Singer/Guitarist) ..............................610 855964 Brian Dee ………........................................................647 897533 Carmen Yuste GR ...................................................675 101355 Carol George (Female Vocalist) ............................634 285009 Catchlove Music (Varied styles duo)…..950 634402 / 678 397536 Chris (Solo Guitarist) .................................................950 437606 Darren Antony (Vocalist) ......................................... 672 112933 DJ Digit-Al ...............................................................634 338014 Dominic Doolittle ..........................................................681 339778 Don Tadeo ..................................................................670 860386 Driftwood …….............................................................687 672028 Dynamite International Rock Band ............................666 310251 EMI Electrical Services ............................................673 502867 Flamenco Dancer (English speaking) ...............687480694 Francisco J. ‘Pasus’ ..........................950 397401 / 699 510966 Georges Femenias (vocalist/guitar) ……...…………….634 300356 Good stand in drummer ...........................................648 699733 Graham D.(Mobile) Karaoke ......................................662 480966 GuitarMac ( Guitar/Vocals ) .....................................634 340476 Infinity (Vocal duo & tributes) ..................................678 821330 Jazz Flautist .............................................................634 326672 Jill Farmiloe (Female vocalist) .................................607 443908 Jim Mackie (Piano Man) ..........................................651 751629 Johnny Slade (DJ Extraordinaire) ............................ 647 202599 JuJu Entertainment ............................950 950797 / 697 462746 Kay Frances (Vocalist) ........................950 069288 / 689 404244 Kayleigh Easton (vocals) ...................................... 642 581198 Kev Moore .............................................................600 762856 Kim Allen .................................................................699 950257 Kris Kelly (Female Vocalist) .................................. 634 374525 Lady Ellen Sings .............................673 459331 / 677 475268 Legend DJ (Ian) ………….....................................…634 313796 M & M's Rock & Roll Revue ...................................699 462859 M Soul & Motown (all music styles) ........................634 340409 Marcela (Belly Dancing) ..............................................666 952089 Maurice Casanove ....................................................671 386947 Maximum Output Karaoke /Disco ............................697 317557 Mel J (Female Vocalist) ........................................664 111990 Melodee (Duo) ................................610 855964 / 664 111990 Melodeemusic (Backing Tracks & Recording Studio).....610 855 964 Menta & Canela Duo ..............................................645 886919 North South Country Boys ........................................634 332135 Northern Lights Karaoke …...............................……..697 500673 Phil and The Invisibles ..................... 950 475752 / 651 045120 Replay Duo ..............................................................950 124154 Richard Hill ..............................................................670 243461 Roadrunner (duo) ......................... 628 122363 / 684 330431 Robin Lamble ..........................................................602 469425

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Rocio Starry (Vocalist) .............................................645 886919 Sabrina Lloyd .............................................................661 055440 Shirin (bellydancer) .................................................607 805367 Short-Fuse Blues Band...............................................651 610189 Smartie Pants the Clown ............................................617 815221 Solo Simon ...............................................................667 989270 Spotlight Entertainment (Karaole, disco etc.) .............634 311652 Starry Jazz trio/quintet .............................................645 886919 Sue Moretta .............................................................672 148730 The Fat Lizard Band .....(English) 651 045120 (Esp) 617 464728 The Jaguars ............................................................634 397513 The Opium Buddhas ………………….687 033106 / 667 989270 The Twilight Shadows (Duo) ....................................950 437606 Tom Lee ……............................................................671 754851 Tony Matthews (Quiz organiser) ..............................634 391414 Tony Justice ……….............................950 950797 / 637 159249 Trio Chaos ................................................................687 361440 Triple Trouble Blues Band ........................................671 754851

Grupo Platinum Estates (San Juan)(See p.17).950 466122 / 666 687251 Homes of Spain (Huércal Overa).........950 616516 / 616 562447 Indal-futur S.L. (Mojácar) ……............950 615156 / 609 026526 Indalo Real Estate ...........................950 091137 / 616 760409 Indasol Mojácar S.L. .................................................950 472200 Inmobiliaria Almanzora ..................... 9501 20406 / 637 251238 InmoTerreros (San Juan) ...............950 096180 / 666 255765 K7 Mojácar ...............................................................950 478555

ESTATE AGENTS

Alhambra Holdings (Mojácar)...............950 475199 / 629 673450 Linnitt Properties (Turre).............................................950 479054 AlmeríaCasas ...........................................................950 387852 Mojácar Estates (See p.48)......................................950 478935 Almería Homes ................................0044 1273 929286 / 950 930 259 Almería Property Agency (Arboleas) ..850 993099 / 628 872334 Almeria Property Finder (Albox) ................................950 431624 Almería Prop. Investments (Las Buganvillas).950 460874 / 666 260792 Angel Property (Palomares) .....................................950 618054 Antonio Martinez de la Casa (Energy certs)..............950 092094 Arboleas Property Shop .................…....................…958 003391 BMS Huerta Nueva ............................950 615035 / 669 355914 Calida Homes (Arboleas)......................950 430763 / 634 302801 Casa y Campo (Lubrin) .............................................678 587007 Casas Almería (Huércal Overa) ..........950 134434 / 649 777218 Casas y Sol (Aguilas) …........................................…..968 446663 Mojacarmar ......................................950 475891 / 636 903184 Citrus Homes ...........................................................638 849254 Cole's of Andalucia ...............................950 469592 / 697 640681 Complete Holiday Care .......................950 478612 / 610 808631

Cortijos Almería …………............……........................676 916088 D & D Property Care, Sales & Rentals .....643 335386 / 643 337063 Destination Spain Property Services .........................672 668803 Euroxan (Vera) .........................................................699 067922 Fincas Vera Playa ..............................950 460670 / 639 314767 Find Me A Home .................................951 914195 / 636 266641 FW Properties ................................634 325152 / 634 352285 Gogo Estates (Aguilas) ........................968 414459 / 615 282151

Multicasa Aguilas .................................................... 968 493009 Neinor Homes (Mojácar) ..........................................900 110022 New Horizon Villas (Zurgena) ..................................950 438221 New One Stop (Mojácar) (See p.13) .......................950 473040 New Wave Villas (Mojácar) (See p.25)..950 475800 / 607 146352 Next Stop Almería (See p.3)..............950 617518 / 678 034651 Nicla Property Consultancy S.L. ............950 133508 / 628 585538 Okisur (Mojácar) .........................................................950 478386 Olive Property Sales (Bédar)(See cover) .950 469624 / 687 938466 Polansky and Associates ..........................................950 478086 Price Brown Partnership (Mojácar) (See p.64/65)....950 478915

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EVENT MANAGEMENT See also Wedding and Party Planning JuJu Entertainment .............................950 950797 / 697 462746

EXCURSIONS Andinas Buggy Treks ..............................................645 984122 C.A.T. Services (La Alfoquía) (See p.31).950 634388 / 627 635514 Costa Almería Tours ..................................................646 760389 Day Tours Almería ............................651 592836 / 645 253155 Indalo Quads (Mojácar) ...........................................634 315074 Mojácar Jeep Tours .................................................611 028716 Property Floor Plans ................................................619 672431 Realtors MB Spain .................................................678 347125

Rancho Luz del Sol (Partaloa) …..........……...……………..642 1185467 Rural Almería (Mojácar Playa) ................................…950 472200 Santiburi Properties (Cabrera & Mojácar) 694 404971 / 647 901478 Sol y Mar (Albox) ...............................950 064584 / 635 979829 Sonia Cantalejo Bueno (Energy Certs.)......................608 147640 Spanish Estate Agents (Albox) ………950 431855 / 661 143871 Spanish Hideaways (Oria) ....................634 366672 / 676 604008 Spain Assured (See front cover)............950 469622 / 634 300020 Spain Property Finder …..............……........................686 878789 Spanish Property Choice (Mojácar Playa)...................950 615388 Sun Med Properties (Vera Playa) ............................…..950 618209 Vaitier SL (Cabrera) .....................................................609 626140 Veritas Homes (Mojácar) ............................950 472430 / 610 053563 VIP Almería (Mojácar Playa) (See back)..950 472524 / 617 587903 Voss Homes (Huercal-Overa) ...................667 891 741 / 950 616 827

FABRICS Curtains with Style (See p.21)...........950 069032 / 678 811125

FASHION Dandara (Garrucha) ................................................950 617013 Etcetera (Mojácar Playa) ...........................................950 532810 Garabatis (Children's) Mojácar Playa …..........………670 035630 Glad Rags (Albox) ……….........................................634 313071 H & R Men's Fashion (Albox) …................................692 682164 Jules Clothing .........................................................633 640918 Liz Fashion Accessories (Garrucha) .627 970819 / 607 511179 Manumaga (Mojacar Playa) …………..........................659 884479 Modern Times (Mojácar Playa) …..........…………….950 475207 Oasis Fashions (Mojácar Playa) (See p.5)...............950 473222 Palme (Mojácar Playa) ............................................950 472813 Prins Vitali (Mojacar) ….............................................950 478690 Saga Boutique (Mojácar) .........................................950 475258

FENCING Chain Link Almanzora ………...................................697 801875

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Aero Extinción S.L. (Almería) …............………………..950 263565 Extin-Torres S.L. (Mojácar) ............................................950 475067

FINANCIAL SERVICES AMASS ……......................................................……..678 035992 WPMS Inmobiliario (Villaricos) ..........678 321111 / 950 618697 Blacktower (See p.127) .........................................657 684094 CG Legal & Financial (Mojácar Playa) ..950 472504 / 670 215926 Currencies Direct (Mojácar) …....…...…950 478914 / 626 916443 You Can Always Indalo Partners (See next page).................................950 472242 Kennedy Financial Services .........................................678 035992 Find it in the Focus! Offshore Money Management .............952 830916 / 950 398078

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Call 670 84 92 65 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com Sol Yoga Centre (Arboleas) .....................................686 400331 Sophia Wellness Centre (Arboleas) .........................950 449451 Valle Del Este Spa & Health Centre ..........................950 548600 Vicki’s Fitness & Slimming .....................................650 764623

Yoga therapies & slimming (Turre & Vera) ....................643 102335

FIREPLACES Chimeneas Mojácar S.L. (Mojácar Playa) ..............950 472135

FITNESS & DANCE See also Activities-Clubs-Associations Alison .....................................................................666 273168 Aqua Aerobics - Marianne (Arboleas) .......................637 435864 Club Deportivo Puerto Rey ......................................950 460545 Betsy Fox Zumba ....................................................603 493163 Debbie James (Personal training) (Mojácar) ...........687 619239 Dorothy Rowntree, personal trainer (Mojácar)..........666 815838 Entrenador Personal I.F.B.B. …….....................……..676 871950 Fitness For All (Bédar) ………..........…………………..647 593323 Gimnasio Formas (Turre) .............................................950 468065 GymXtreme Yoga (Vera) ..........................................643 102335 Indigo Gym (Mojácar Playa) ...........................................950 475 403 Javi Orta, personal trainer (Mojácar) .........................651 693681 Jova Sport Center (Mojácar Playa) …………………..950 473137

FISHING Orca Steve Sea Fishing (Mojacar/Garrucha) ……… 634 352873 Pete Fishing Trips (Mojácar/Garrucha) …..................634 379173 Rio 600 Boat Fishing (Sid & Graham). 647 020929 / 647 803030

FISH & CHIPS Kingfisher (Pueblo Laguna) ................950 093135 / 622 559384

The Chippy (La Alfoquía) ........................................634 324484

Lotus Integral Yoga Centre (Mojácar) ........................617 719913 Pam - Fitness & Slimming .........................................639 465631 Sansonora (Mojácar Playa) .....................................630 688615 Sierra Club Desert Springs .......................................687 599115

If you want to advertise your business, just call Rob on 619 833 041, Clara (español) on 670 849 265 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com

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FLORISTS

Home Sweet Home (Turre) ...............................……..950 479487 Hortiflor (Mojácar) ....................................................950 478985 La Maruja (Mojácar) ..................................................664 647171 Penny’s Florist (Mojacar) ..........................................645 351767 La Venta de Alfaix Minimarket (Alfaix) ..........................950 469660 Las Buganvillas Minimarket ………........................…..635 036408 Manoli (Arboleas) …...................................................627 941654 Price Busters (Albox) .................................................950 951494 Sol Supermercado (Albox) ….......................................950 430043 Spar Supermarket (Huércal-Overa) ...........…………..950 135222 Spices n' Herbs in Spain (Albox)...............................689 482694 Super Corner (Turre)..........................950 468303 / 637 016107 The Corner Shop (Albox) ………………950 930539 / 680 776791

FOOD SUPPLIERS Persa Floristas (Albox) …….......................................950 120211

Food4 .............................................................618875394 Fresh Herbs ............................................................695 941724 King’s Foods ...........................................................606 437683

FUNCTION VENUES

FLY SCREENS

AA Window Doctor ..............…………630 231644 / 636 838484 La Capilla (Las Alparatas, Mojácar) .........................950 479305 Armadillo …......................................…950 528128 / 663 303350 Miraflores Restaurant (Camping Los Gallardos) .........650 418954 Bugs ...........................................................................600 049515 The Palms (Urcal) ………...................950 958167 / 678 832036 Coastal Mosquitoes ...........................606 040462 / 610 000700 FUNERAL COMPANIES

Curtains with Style (See p.21).........950 069032 / 678 811125 Dave ........................................................................634 351275 Lifestyle Enclosures Europe S.L. (See p. 9) 950 459060 / 638 063196 SpeedyFit ..............................................950 472357 / 600 006032 Toldos Farrago (Vera) ...............................................667 567564 Tony Justice ...................................…..950 950797 / 637 159249 Ventanas y Puertas Mojacar S.L. ......................…….950 473104

FOOD SHOPS Catch of the Day UK Fishmonger ........634 301490 / 634 304288 Eurowise (Albox) ……………….............................…..950 439801 Gastronomía (Delicatessen) (Las Buganvillas) .......950 132048

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CollyFer (Huércal Overa) …….............617 456259 / 617 456335 Furniture Plus (Puerto de Mazarrón)....968 153907 / 678 083491 Funeral Homes Robles (Cuevas) ..............................657 921383 Funeraria Ntra. Sra. de las Angustias (Vera) 950 390884 / 607 705672 Funeraria Pérez (Mojácar) ........................................950 478102

FUNERAL PLANS Avalon Europe S.L. ............................950 069012 / 634 321296 Golden Leaves Funeral Plans (Benitachell)............. 966 493082 Iberian Funeral Plans (See p.35)...........951 203994 / 965 993498

Homecentre (Albox) (See p.6)...........868 931872 / 671 715294 Homes & Beyond (Garrucha) ..................................950 132458 Ideas del Mueble (Antas) ...........................................950 452816 Indalocio Garden Furniture & BBQs ...........................850 993090 Inspired (Furniture & BBQs) (El Real, Antas) (See p.4) 950 147763 Koala Furniture (Antas) (See p.39)...................….........950 392307 La Lonja (Lorca) (See p.27) ........................................968 443322 Linea Nueva (Arboleas) ……………….620 237529 / 950 120630 Me & Mrs Jones (Los Llanos market) .....................0044 7850 840288 Muebles Rodríguez (Los Llanos, Arboleas) …...........950 430778 Sofa & Sofa (Las Buganvillas) ................654 596247 / 654 596220 Unicraft (Upholstery) ..................................................692 176069

FURNITURE PACKAGES Furniture Plus (Puerto de Mazarron)...968 153907 / 678 083491 Homes & Beyond (Garrucha) ....................................950 132458

FURNITURE, RUSTIC/HANDMADE Andinas (Antas, El Real) ...........................................950 459128 Artisanos (Antas) …...…….......................................…696 431510 Casa Nativa (Valle del Este) …….............................629 624286 El Pinar (Los Carasoles) ....................950 104272 / 670 845498 La Buena Artesania (Mojácar) ....................................950 475508 Soluciones Rusticas (Carboneras) …950 364835 / 646 821821 The Furniture Doctor .............................................667 989270

FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Abodes (Mojácar Playa) ...............................................647 901478 Brian’s Furniture & Removals (Mojácar Playa) .........674 280268 Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 Casa Carma (Turre) ...................................................645 080310 Casas Nativa (Valle del Este) ..................................629 624286 Continental Descanso (Antas) 950 459011 (Albox) ...950 633288 El Pinar (Los Carasoles) ……......................…………950 104272 El Rincón de Mueble.(See p.33) (Vera)950 460867 (Antas) 950 459071 Elleann’s Homestyle .................................................674 514999 Embargos Bestiales (Antas El Real) ......................950 105711 Fig Furnishings (Mojácar Playa) ...............................643 065179

GARDENS 24hr Casaserve ..................................950 466438 / 676 306269 Agave …….................................................................617 826334 Cedar Landscapes …….............……....................…620 112193 Chris (Gardening) .................................................643 082899 Clare’s Hanging Baskets …………...............………….634 331440 Clean Team …………..............………850 993202 / 694 440184 Complete Pool & Property Maintenance 634 343541 / 634 891709 Garden Works ..............................…..950 132518 / 666 847583 Indalocio Garden Furniture & BBQs ..........................850 993090 Inspired (Furniture & BBQs) (El Real, Antas) (See p.4) 950 147763 Jardin Natural ............................................................685 478187 L & M Landscapes .................................................670 409538 La French Touch ......................................................607 226269 Lady Muck Gardening .............................................697 317557 Madera Mania (Garden Supplies) ….........................667 562872 Mediterranean Gardens …….................................. 661 577019 Mel Wood Landscapes ...................................0044 7973843706 Mobile Shredder & Mulch Garden Service .............687 024884 Nash Groundworks ..................................................722 546192

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Potty Finca Services ..................……..950 163930 / 616 855294 Riegos y Conducciones (Antas, El Real) .................950 459146

GOLF TUITION

Gareth Edwards (Cortijo Grande) …...........................950 GAS INSTALLATION & REPAIRS Marcus (Mojácar) .....................................................610 Smith Plumbing (Spanish Authorised).........................950 468041 Neil Evans (Desert Springs Golf Resort) ............... 638 Valle del Este (Vera) ...............................................676

479176 526671 531821 256923

GRASS, ARTIFICIAL Grass 4 U .................................................................638 574145 Greenfingers Arboleas S.L. ..........……......……………629 947633 Inspired (El Real, Antas) (See p.4) .................... 950 147763 Nash Groundworks .....................................................722 546192 Tiger Turf ............................................950 431624 / 635 652745

GUTTERING Lifestyle Enclosures Europe S.L. (See p. 9) 950 459060 / 638 063196

HAIR, HEALTH & BEAUTY GAS SUPPLIERS Gas Alboran ..........................................656 662000 / 950 259382

GEO-TECHNICAL SOIL REPORTS Sonia Cantalejo Bueno ............................................608 147640

GIFT SHOPS Isabella (Vera Playa) ......................................................637 188901

GLASS CURTAINS Lifestyle Enclosures Europe S.L. (See p. 9) 950 459060 / 638 063196 SpeedyFit .......................................950 472357 / 600 006032 Toldos Farrago (Vera) ...............................................667 567564

GLAZING (Supply & Repair) AA Window Doctor ......................…630 231644 / 950 091128 Cristalería Mojácar …............................................…..950 475376 Cristalería Omega (Mojácar) …..........950 478137 / 670 500711 Cristalería Rubi (Vera) ………......................................950 390546 SpeedyFit ............................................950 472357 / 600 006032

GOLD & JEWELLERY BUYING

Gold & Jewellery Buying ...........................................616 453813

GOLF COURSES Aguilon Golf (Pulpi) ......................................………..672 Cortijo Grande ..........................................................950 Desert Springs ........................................................637 Macenas Beach Golf ...................…....................…..950 Marina Golf ..............................................................950 Valle del Este ...........................................................950

655600 479176 861591 548240 133230 398743

Affinity Beauty Treatments (Turre) ............................678 992093 Anavi Estillistas (Palomares) .....................................670 094722 Ashlí (Naturopath & yoga therapies) ..........................643 102335 Avon Co-ordinator (Jane) ……...................................670 722705 Avon Cosmetics (Arboleas) ………........................….691 987454 Avon Cosmetics (Bedar) ...........................................950 398980 Avon Cosmetics (Húercal Overa) …....647 092010 / 950 137208 Avon Cosmetics (Los Gallardos) .............................687 960362 Avon Cosmetics (Los Gallardos camping ) ..............950 469684 Avon Cosmetics (Turre & Vera) .................................643 102335 Avon (Total Entertainment, Albox) .............................950 121318 Avon (Total Entertainment, Arboleas) ........................678 009051 Beauty by Marilyn ....................................................950 398852 Beauty Center (Mojácar) (See p.37)..........................687 480694 Bonita Hair & Beauty Salon (Mojácar) .........................950 473159 Centro Estética (Mojácar Playa) …..................………950 472680 Claire & Inma (Mojácar Playa) (See p.17).................950 147630 Cloud 9 (Mojácar) (See next page)...........................662 226086 Cutting Edge (Hair & Beauty) (Albox) .........................950 633086 Dave Eccles (Mobile Hairdresser) ......950 525790 / 687 033106 Donna's (Albox)..................................950 930167 / 628 669456 El Rincon de Mary (Mojácar) ................................... 663 561521 El Rincon de Mary (Mojácar) Yasmin .....................656 646257 Elaine Mobile Hairdresser (Coast & Inland).................634 379424 Elegance (Turre) ......................................................634 308877 Etticut (Turre) .............................................................667 971960 Euphoria Hair & Beauty (Esparragal) ...868 188706 / 657 713571 Farrow's Hair Design (Arboleas) .................................950 634346 Favola (Las Buganvillas) (See p.7)...........................675 622216 Heaven Scent (Huércal-Overa) ……....................…..663 923733 Hollywood Beauty & Hair ..............................................965 326082 IIsabel Castaño (Hairdresser, Bédar) ..666 045552 / 950 469462 Jax Hair & Beauty (Albox) …..................………………645 560367 Jean & Co.(Mojácar Playa) ……..............................…950 615094 Jing ........................................................................622 251432 Julie Rodriguez .......................................................634 338017 Kim White (Beauty)(Vera & Mobile) ………...……….637 149659 Kuts 2 (mobile) ..........................................................662 094372 LAB (Hair & Beauty) (Mojácar) ..............................950 473110

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Loulou’s (Albox) …..............................850 993141 / 642 015920 LU & NA (Valle del Este) …….............................…950 461113 Marcela Torres (Manicure & Pedicure) .....................697 421672 Naturalmente Mediterraneo (Skin care) (Garrucha) …655 299494 Oceanic Massage Therapies (Mojácar)...666 710964 / 687 619239 Opulence (La Alfoquía) …...........................................619 467295 Pascal Chevallier Emporium (Mojácar) (See p.46).......950 472790 Pampered Beauty Centre (Palomares) (See p.39).......950 618129 Phoebe (at Pampered) .............................................662 573939 Pure Natural Deodorant ...........................................950 066163 R retreat (Cucador) ……...........…...............................626 144680 Room 97 (La Alfoquia) .............................................683 479261 Salon de Peluqueria y Estetica (Garrucha) ...............950 133162 Sarah Noble (mobile hairdresser) ...........................692 195500 Shiatsu Centro de Terapia (Huércal Overa) .............671 851135 Sophia Wellness Centre (Arboleas) ...........................950 449451 Stella’s Hair & Beauty (Las Buganvillas) ..................950 699973 Sunlight Spain (Herbal Products) ...............................684 212474 The Spanish Beauty Club (Mojácar / Vera) ..............637 149659 Wacky Barber & Hairdresser (Mojácar) ....................667 961645

HARDWARE OUTLETS Enrique Aguirre S.L. (Garrucha) .................................950 460028 Ferretería Gonzalez (Mojácar) ……….........................666 471384 Ferretería López (Mojácar) ……..................................950 615026 Ferretería Longo (Albox) ……....................................950 430064 Ferretería Soler (Garrucha) ……..................................950 460073

HEALING See Counselling/Healing HEALTH FOODS Girasol (Albox) ….......................................................639 089170

Home Sweet Home (Turre) ..............................……..950 479487 La Maruja (Mojácar) ...............................................664 647171 Las Hierbas de Maria (Mojácar) ..............…………….657 513990

HEATING ABC (A Better Climate) (See p29).......647 247494 / 950 Andrew Morrison (Econo-Heat)..................................627 Graham (oil heating) ……….....................................620 Mike Lacey ..........................................950 069073 / 636 Neater Heater ………...................................………….634

HIRE

Wavelengths (Albox) .............................................…950 120309

To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

092604 250204 112193 407543 312171

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Baby Basics (Equipment Hire) ...................................950 104345 Mobility Almería (Mojácar Playa) .............................634 322475 Expecting a Baby (Almanzora Valley) ....950 436581 / 666 375688 Nursery Hire (San Juan de los Terreros) ….............666 255765 The Baby Hire Centre ................................................615 806126

Hotel Salinas (Cabo de Gata) .....................................950 370103 Hotel & Spa Don Juan (Aguilas) ................................968 493493 Hotel Tikar (Garrucha) ..............................................950 617131 Hotel Valhalla (Carboneras) ......................................950 130444 Hotel Valle del Este ...................................................950 398743 Hotel Virgen del Mar (Mojácar) ..................................902 472222 HOME CARERS see also Nursing Las Colinas Suitotel (San Juan de Los Terreros) .........950 466353 Angels Nursing Group ...............................................902 026468 Parador de Mojácar ...................................................950 478250 Committed2ucommunitycare ......................................684 333442 Helping Hands Mojacar (Kirsty Ratcliffe) .................678 590988 HOUSE & PET SITTING Michaela Talbot .........................................................622 015765 Chris .........................................................................634 325073 David .............................................................................. 950 099905 Linda Pettit .............................................................642 016954 Sharon Presley ..........................................................648 069200

HOUSE CLEARANCE Items For Sale Mojácar .......................694 439275 / 950 478753 The Attic (Cucador) ..…….…................672 184354 / 648 250699

HOUSEHOLD GOODS Home Store ........………..............………850 993202 / 694 440184 Home Sweet Home (Turre) ................................……..950 479487 Simone Senft (Tupperware) .................950 068181 / 676 308217

HYGIENE & FOOD HANDLING Grupo Sedesa (Vera) ...............................................950 390990

INSURANCE Adeslas ............................................950 472701 / 633 431900 Albox Insurance .......................................................950 121943

HORSE RIDING Centro Hipico Valle del Almanzora .........................691 Didi Arias (Mojácar) ...............................................639 Media Legua Equestrian Centre (Vera) ..............……667 Rancho Luz del Sol (Partaloa) .................................642 Sanctuary Limaria .....................................................628

241878 724521 243561 118546 239696

HOTELS & HOSTALS

Alhambra Holdings (Mojácar)...............950 475199 / 629 673450

Casona Granado (Nr Lubrin) ...................................950 069077 Hostal El Olivar (Mojácar Pueblo) .........950 472022 / 672 019767 Hotel Al Sur (Calabardina) .........................................968 419466 Hotel Cala Real (Aguilas) ..........................................968 414562 Hotel Carlos 111 (Aguilas) ......................................968 411650 Hotel Carmona (Vera) ..............................................950 390760 Hotel - Casa Rural, Cortijo de la Media Luna (Mojácar) 950 478813 Hotel El Paso (Aguilas) …'85…'85......................................968 447125 Hotel Family (Agua Amarga) ......................................950 138014 Hotel Madrid (Aguilas) ................................................968 411109 Hotel Mamabel's (Mojacar Pueblo) .....950 472448 / 663 700542 Hotel Mayari (Calabardina) .................620 629508 / 968 409338 Hotel Puntazo (Mojácar) ...........................950 478265 / 950 478 229 Hotel Rural Azabache (Arboleas)..................................690 258813 Hotel Mexico (Puerto Rey) ......................................950 132061

ASSSA Seguros (Vera) (See p.31).............……………950 392487 Asisa (Vera) ................................................................950 391950 Axa .....................................................950 478763 / 609 667333 BWI Bryan White Insurance (Mojácar) ......................950 472098

To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

Free directory entries.

Call 670 84 92 65 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com Lola Barranco ………..........................950 086116 / 691 261818

INTERNET CAFES see Cybercafes INTERNET PROVIDERS Albox Online ...........................................................950 091111

Catalana Occidente (Palomares) ..............................950 618054 Catalana Occidente (Mojácar Playa) .........................950 478307 Edward William (Marine Insurance) ……………….….952 476090 García & Trinidad (Albox) …….............950 120340 / 620 240563 Gestoría Salvador (Mojácar Playa) ..........................950 473192 Grupo Catalana Occidente (Mojácar Pueblo) 950 478061 / 653 806 908 Connexions (Turre) ……..............................…………..950 479502 Ibex Insurance Services Ltd (Mojácar & Albox) ........950 120070 Next .............................................................................950 479369 GSF Communications ...............................................950 473102 Satcomms ..............................................951 406556 / 622 524335

INTERPRETING/TRANSLATIONS 1-2-1 Translations (Spanish, English, Norwegian)......662 390453 4wayconnections .......................................................646 844708 Alpha Interpreting and Translation .......950 133508 / 677 530690 Andrés (Mojácar) ........................................................679 932632 Antonio García Russell (Mojácar) ..............................606 198958 C.A.T. Services (La Alfoquía) (See p.31).950 634388 / 627 635514 Carolina Pérez Gallardo (Sworn Translator) ..............647 863745

Liberty Seguros (Turre) ….................950 479568 / 620 179206 Liberty Seguros (See p.23).....................................913 422549 Linea Directa ………....................................................902 123248 Mapfre (Mojácar) ...950 478151 (Garrucha)................950 617376 Maxine Morgan Liberty Seguros (Las Buganvillas) ........669 074 996 Mojácar Insurance ...................................................634 323399 Sol y Mar (Albox) ……….....................950 064584 / 654 590258 Sol Insure ………..........................................………..950 472098 Victoria Insurance ..........................................………950 475241

INTERIOR DESIGN Evie Fox-Rayner ................................603 493163 / 653 714767 Curtains with Style (See p.21) ..........950 069032 / 678 811125 Deco-house (Ann) .....................................................666 260792 Essential Solutions …….............................................627 245658 Light & Luz (Vera) ...................................................686 457714

Carolyn (Mojácar area) ........................950 132905 / 608 692545 Cristina …….......................................................…..626 741386 Clara Mata ..............................................................629 132529 Starena (Vera Playa) ..............................................672 668803 Donna González-Linnitt ...........................................699 067922 Elizabeth ..................................................................662 504734 Espanglish Translation & Interpreters . 950 390037 / 950 392876 Hind (Mojácar - French, Arabic, English) .................616 605341 Joanne Tissington ……………...................................637 267150 Kathryn Jones .........................................................629 931125 Laberinto (Spanish, English, French, Dutch) .............609 781438 Marcela Chávez Riveros (Mojácar) .......................... 676 951352 Marguerite ……....................................................…..687 814157 Marisa .......................................................................636 179128 Michaela Talbot .........................................................622 015765 Milena (Albox) ………....................……654 359607 / 711 794366

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JOINERY - see Carpentry Paul Jessop (Aguilas) .............................................626 421623 Robert Boucher .........................................................693 618705 Simply Solved ………............................................….617 882689 KENNELS, CATTERIES & PET Solutions Almería ......................................................687 632435 SITTING Susi ..................................................................................617 920 190 Traducciones Levante ...............................................606 953775 Animal Hotel (Águilas) ..............................................639 722197 Wendy Interpreter/Translator ................................. 661 194278 Berben petsitting (Velez Rubio) ..................................658 087966 Yamile (Written Translations) ....................................626 207575 Boarding Kennels Los Llanos de Rosa (cats & dogs) ..629 448073 Country Kennel (Turre) .........................950 473011 / 627 564640 INTERNET TV Dog & Cat Sitter Service …………………..................676 389592 Connexions (Turre) (See front cover).......................950 479502 Gail .....................................................693 769079 / 697 500673 DCM Digitek Comms (Mojácar) (See p.19) .950 472947 / 670 084438 Five Bone Hotel (Turre) ............................................630 234556 Europa Digital .......................................950 133233 / 678 332815 Ezetv .......................................................................950 091112 GSF Communications ................................................950 473102 IPTV UK ....................................................................603 613918 IPTV Spain UKTV ...............................619 893214 / 699 386277 Mobility Almería (Mojácar Playa) .............................634 322475 S E Telecoms ............................................................697 780499 UKTV Almería (See p.51).......................850 993202 / 694 440184 IRONING Cherie's Ironing & Cleaning (Mojácar) ............………634 301389 Clean Team …………..............………850 993202 / 694 440184 Gatotel .....................................................................634 678852 JET WASHING Aguaclean …………….........................950 064608 / 697 559395 Home from Home ...................................950 069010 / 677 382713 Mobile Jet Washing ………..................950 069121 / 605 376873 Horse & Dog sitting …………..............................……607 554984 Kareclif Cattery (Albox) ...........................................677 791165 JEWELLERY Kit Cat Luxury Cat Suites (Los Gallardos) ..............674 113217 Castellón (Bédar) .................. ....................................642 435909 Louise ....................................................................... 680 124159 Jewellery Paula (Albox) ...........................................960 430871 My Place or Yours ....................................................607 554984 Joyería Pérez (Garrucha) ........................................950 460636 Palomino Kennels & Cattery …………........................950 093087 La Luna (Garrucha) .................................................950 132543 Paws*A*While (Nr Albox) …....................................…696 562662 Serendipity (Albox) .................................................617 699624 Personal Pets (sitter/ walker) ….................................634 378193

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Pet Hotel (Los Gallardos) ........................................634 312821 Pet Sitting in Your Home ………….......................…….637 061482 Sharon Presley ..........................................................648 069200 Sleepy Hollow (Huércal-Overa) ….............................617 313587 The Hilton Cattery ............................950 163489 / 664565479 Woodhouse Boarding Kennels/Cattery (Arboleas)….950 930585

KEY CUTTING

KITCHENS 24hr Casaserve .................................950 466438 / 676 306269 Artizan (Vera) (See p.47) ................…950 390635 / 661 985310 Cocinas Puntocom (Huércal-Overa) ...950 921975 / 722 136950 Harlequin Kitchens (Albox) ……........………………….619 584405 J.B. Kitchen Fitters (Turre) .......................................687 024884 KDI Kitchens .............................................................605 163613 La Lonja (Lorca) (See p.27) ........................................968 443322 Mojácar Home Improvements ...........950 473104 / 689 296432

LANDSCAPING La French Touch .................. ..................................607 226269 Mel Wood Landscapes ...................................0044 7973843706 Nash Groundworks .....................................................722 546192

LAUNDERETTES Bish’s (Mojácar Playa) ...........................................639 161725

LAUNDRIES City Sec (Vera) .........................................................950 Clean Team Laundry Service ...................................634 Costa-Azul (Aguilas) ……..........................................968 Ivi's Lavanderia (Las Buganvillas) ............................950

390255 332502 414327 132657

LEGAL SERVICES See also Solicitors 4wayconnections ...................................................646 844708 ALO Services (Zurgena) ......................950 449179 / 667 994682

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Asesoría Sánchez Moral (Mojácar) ...........................670 099726 Karting (Garrucha) ….........................................……950 460207 Barbara Caparros Ridao (Vera) …..........................950 390427 Lunar Cable Park (Cuevas del Almanzora) .................665 512873 CG Legal & Financial (Mojácar Playa) ..950 472504 / 670 215926 Nautarium Sea Museum (Garrucha) ………........…..950 139554 Paintball Almanzor (nr. Arboleas) ..................………..619 559261 Paragliding ………................................635 243539 / 680 358549 Sol-Aero (Vera) ..................................609 685132 / 661 985358 Water Park (Vera Playa) …...................................…..902 361294

LIGHTING Light & Luz (Vera) ...............................950 391804 / 697 643653

LINGERIE & UNDERWEAR Bras Etcetera …………...............................................950 Corpore (Garrucha) ………….....................................950 Lunas (Turre) ………................................................661 Manuelas Lenceria (Mojácar) ..................................626 Mya (Huércal Overa) .................................................950

121909 132253 642341 730088 135742

LOCKSMITHS 24hr Locksmith (See opposite)............950 472982 / 658 828560 Guzman Seguridad (Albox) ................950 431497 / 674 141559 Locksmith (Dean) ....................................................666 949213

Cam Concepts S.L. (Huércal-Overa) …......…………. 950 471357 Cervantes Alarcon Consulting (Garrucha) 950 106490 / 647 863787 English Wills Spain …......................…...................607 646027 Gecko Legal Services S.L. (Mojácar) 950 475949 / 638 264621

Phil the Pick 24hr (Arboleas) …................……………..697 243181

LOGS FOR SALE Antonio Diaz .............................................................689 127535 Colin & Carlos ....................................660 903158 / 630 455328 Leña Ramos (Arboleas) …...............….630 356095 / 616 044719 Lee (Arboleas) …………………....................................636 092632 Levante Logs ............................................................670 243724 Log-On-Tommy ……............................................……619 070839 Logs for Sale ..............................................................687 314775 Mr. Leña & Logs .........................................................622 883072 Phil (Arboleas) ………………….....................................634 328779 Potty Finca Services .........................950 163930 / 616 855294

Gestoría Salvador (Mojácar Playa) ........................950 473192 Gestoría Soria Bonilla (Mojácar) ................................950 478420 Kim Clark UK Benefit advice ……..….950 169729 / 663 297568 Mayor Consulting (Garrucha) .......................................950 615185 Mojácar Playa Asesores ……........………...……………950 472710 MARKETING Pilar Pérez Gestión S.L. (Mojácar) ............................950 478863 Edela Media (Social Media) (Mojácar) ....................607 Vera Advisors (Vera) .................................................950 390621 IndaloMarketing ...................................................... 671 MS Legal ..............................................950 479613 / 634 322827 Villalba Asesores (Albox) ..............................................950 431720 MASSAGE Authentic Thai Massage (Jom) ..................................616 LEISURE ACTIVITIES Acupuncture & Massage ..........................................637 see also EXCURSIONS Holistic Massage, Lorraine ................950 064484 / 687 and TOURIST ATTRACTIONS Alternativa (Jessica Rippin) ......................................676 Almería Ten Pin Bowling (Arboleas) …...................….950 439013 Oceanic Therapies (Mojácar) ......................................687 Extreme Adventure Mojácar ......................................687 919840 Ray Daniel (Sports massage)………...........................617 Indalo Bowling Mojácar ............................................950 473073

To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

146352 509116 922612 120429 569113 284170 619239 741564

Free directory entries.

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Mojácar Home Improvements ...........950 473104 / 689 296432 MEALS ON WHEELS Committed2ucommunitycare ......................................684 333442 P & D Metals ............................................................638 707406 Speedy Fit Security Grilles ....................................600 006032 METAL WORK The Metal Works ..............................950 930520 / 638 900949 Angel Welding …………............................................610 601524 MOBILE HOMES & CARAVANS Carpentería Metalica Chacón (Albox) …................950 431738 Cerrajería Jara (Las Buganvillas) …............………….950 109986 Camping Los Gallardos .............................................679 970399 Coastal Rejas ...........................................................610 000700 Caravan Storage (Antas) …….............................….661 508776 FS Fabrications …..............…………..627 167167 / 671 424558 Casa Móviles .....................................637 418906 / 951 161348 Ideal Metal Designs ...................................................656 834064 Cherribar Park Homes ............…………950 396908 / 629 688153 Metalbox (Albox) .......................................................950 633090 Flor de Vida (Aguilas) ..........................968 438535 / 660 329907 Hispavan (See p.59).................................................687 845730 Veramotor S.A. ...........................................................950 392552

MOBILE PHONES See Telecommunications MOTORCYCLES & QUADS D Perez Motor (Antas) ...............................................950 069022 Harley Dees …………................................................600 685550 Indalo Quads (Guided treks) ..................................634 315074 Montoya Motos (Garrucha) …...............................…..950 133033 Nafta Custom (Antas) ………...............950 619293 / 615 938352

The Almería Focus is the magazine that everyone keeps to hand. If you want to advertise your business, just call Rob on 619 833 041, Clara (español) on 670 849 265 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

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NURSING see also Home Carers Angels Nursing Group ...............................................902 026468

Committed2ucommunitycare ......................................684 333442 Michaela Talbot .........................................................622 015765

NEWSAGENTS Total Entertainment (Albox) ......................................950 121318 Total Entertainment (Arboleas) .................................678 009051

Opticas Indalo (Garrucha) ..........................................950 133865 Opticas Indalo (Carboneras) .......................................950 130707 Opticas Indalo (San Isidro de Nijar) ...........................950 366200 Óptica Albox …………….......................................…..950 121991 Optica Mahis (Vera) ………...................................…..950 390777 Optica Orbera (Huércal Overa) ....................................950 135596 Optica Orbera (Albox) .....................................950430101 Opticalia M&G (Albox) ................................................950 121084 Primera Opticos (Aguilas) .........................................968 493482 Salas (Huércal Overa) ................................................950 135081 + Visión (Aguilas) …....................................................968 414279 Villazar (Mojácar Playa) …....................................….950 472783

OSTEOPATHS Alice Bellot (Mojacar & Arboleas) ….................………633 352259 Centro Physis (Olula del Rio) .................................695 355381 Enrique Arias (Mojácar) .........................950 472974 / 629 289385 Hector Gutiérrez (Vera Playa) ............607 479379 / 950 132765 Osteo Maestra (Arboleas) ......................................950 449451 Yannick Reverdy (Clinic Reverdy-Coll) ...................616 673116 Total Entertainment (Turre) .........................................950 468295

NUTRITION Alternativa (Anne-Marie Pichon) ...............................666 966573 Ashlí (Naturopathic & nutritional therapies) ................643 102335

ONLINE MARKETING Donna González Linnitt .............................................699 067922

OPTICIANS Federopticos (Aguilas) ……........................................968 Federopticas Diaz (Albox) ..........................................950 Multiopticas Indalo (Garrucha) ...................................950 Multiopticas Indalo (Mojacar) .....................................950 Multiopticas Indalo (Campohermoso de Nijar) ............950 Natural Optics (Garrucha) .........................................950

414468 121122 460665 472285 385082 133921

PAINTING & DECORATING ABS Advanced Building Services ..............................687 846016 A.J. Painting & Decorating .......................................687 024884 Alan Barker ......................................950 099913 / 600 268176 Antonio Perez (Mojácar) ………........................…….691 240495 Borders Painting ………..........................................…687 661807 Cabrera Painting and Decoration Works ...................637 524709 Casanove Interiors ......................................................680 836166 C.I.S Services (Arboleas) ........................................634 621747 Curtis Helm Multiservices .........................................610 394815 Daniel ……………..................................................….642 236810 Darpa S.L. ..................................................................691 055726 Darren Hargreaves ...................................................626 855483 Day’s Painting Services ..............................................634 365553

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Eurodec ……..........................................................…667 Euro Painters Spain …………….......................………677 Futura España ..........................................................950 Grupo Brideca (shop) (Huércal-Overa) 950 471045 / 950 IPB Painting ........................................661 184848 / 622

238273 557190 615338 135881 524335

PHOTOGRAPHIC SERVICES

JPM ...........................................................................627 090422 Metalwork Painting ………………………699 246932 / 659 185039 Mode Services ...................................950 525790 / 687 033106 Paint Magic ..............................................................617 904774 Painting & Decorating ............................................643 397903

20seven photography ................................................633 773563 Almería-Fotografía .....................................................663 627942 Bluwater Photography ….........…………………………616 189002 Chincheto (Mojácar) ....................................................687 489182 Fotomicar (Lyle Mallen) .............................................620 786914 Fotos Fabrega (Albox) ………...........……………………950 430223 Indigo Photography & Video ...................................637 974793 Omar De La Cruz ………..........………950 460213 / 609 284852 Professional Video & Photographic Services inc. Aerial...647 202599 Rod Westwood ………........................950 472321 / 609 611207 The Image Suite …….............................…........................647 918 848 Toros Bravos ............................................................607 117174

PHOTOCOPIES & SCANS C.A.T. Services (La Alfoquía) (See p.31).950 634388 / 627 635514 neö-cöpy (Vera) …...................………..950 390424 / 622 262100 Pronto Printing (La Buganvillas) (See cover).............950 133492 Servidea 2020 (Mojácar Playa) .................................950 399726 Total Entertainment (Albox) ......................................950 121318 Total Entertainment (Arboleas) .................................678 009051 Paul ...........................................................................649 Phil the Painter ……..............................................…671 S.O.S. Painting ……………........................................651 SWH Painting Services .......................622 899167 / 683 Susana's Painting Services ….............................……649 The Fast Brush .........................................................950

186107 PHYSIOTHERAPY 227259 Centro Physis (Olula del Rio) ......................................695 355381 500670 Clinica MOS Fisioterapia (Mojácar Playa) .................644 394335 479261 759053 472668

PATIO & POOL ENCLOSURES See Screened Patio & Pool Enclosures

PERFUMES & COSMETICS Son d’Aromas (Mojácar Playa) ..................................666 348253

PET SHOPS & TRANSPORT InterZoo (Vera) .......................................................950 390075 Madera Mania (Los Gallardos) …..................……….667 562872 Shift My Pets Transport (Spain/UK) …….........………634 368430 Tucano Mascotas (Vera) ....................950 392617 / 650 292670 Union Jack (Pet Transportation) ...........………………….902 109560

PEST CONTROL Jason …….........................................950 064015 / 680 903609 Sedesa (Vera) …………............................................950 390990

Fisiomar Physiotherapy Centre (Albox) ....................667 425197 Fisioterapia Vera-Salud (Vera Playa) ...607 479379 / 950 132765 Ignacio López de la Fuente (Mojácar) ......................627 244730 Physiotherapy Centre (Albox) ...........950 431463 / 657 516247 Remedio clinic (Mojacar) ....................950 472980 / 617 741564 Vitea Fisioterapia (Vera) ...................950 390655 / 663 024255

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Armadillo ….........................................................…950 528128 PIANO TUNER Terry …...................................................................…697 229753 Ashley Reliable Plumbing (Albox area)......................610 052407 Blocked DrainsRUs ............................950 091109 / 648 768587 PICTURE FRAMING Charlie Fyre ..............................................................686 833444 Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 Chris ........................................................................617 313587 Casa de Cabra (Albox) ........................................ 633 364329 Carlos (Saliente) Plumbing & Heating ..950 930900 / 620 742954 Cosy Casa Plumbing (Albox) ……............................950 425049 PIZZERIAS Curtis Helm Multiservices .........................................610 394815 Antonella (Mojácar Playa) ................................……..950 450215 Graham ....................................................................620 112193 BiancoRossi (Mojácar Playa) ...................................950 472682 Knowles ….........................................950 137197 / 606 807797 Bocapizza (Albox) ......................................................950 120506 Fernando (Huércal Overa)...........................................677 549247 Cafetería Levante (Mojácar) .....................................950 615224 Francisco Montoya (Mojacar) …............………………..687 466352 Cafetería Pizzería Alcazaba (Mojácar Playa) ............645 414793 Mike Lacey ..........................................950 069073 / 636 407543 Centro Plaza (Palomares) …...............................…..950 618614 Smith Plumbing S.L. ..................................................950 468041 Chili (Turre) ................................................................950 468425 El Ángel (Mojácar Pueblo) ...................950 478343 / 607 537101 PODIATRISTS El Gaucho (Mojácar Playa) ....................................950 478846 See Chiropodists & Podiatrists Enrico (Mojácar Playa) ......................950 472995 / 642 514738 Meson Felipe San Bernabé (Mojácar Playa) ..…….950 475966 POOL COVERS Imperial (Mojácar Playa) ......................................….950 478098 1 Stop Pool Shop ...............................950 104345 / 637 582696 Indalo Burger (Mojácar Playa) ...............................950 099119 Coverbox (Albox) …….................................................615 992007 La Góndola (Garrucha) ..............................................950 133928 Enclose My Pool ..................................606 040462 / 670 510097 La Muralla (Mojácar Pueblo) .......................................950 472928 Hispavan pool covers ........................950 047033 / 687 845730 Little Italy II (Garrucha) …………...........………………950 133802 Real Covers (Mojácar) ........................950 478763 / 609 667333 Osteria (Mojácar) ......................................................950 615151 WS Cover ...................................................................667 480363 Ottocento (Mojácar Playa) .........................................950 615100 Pizzeria Gallo (Aguilas) …...........................................968 447862 Pizzeria D'Angelo (Mojácar Playa) .................................950 478517 Pizzeria El Desvío (Turre) ............................................607 804488 Pizzeria Portofino (Mojácar) .......................................950 472809 Pizzeria-Restaurante Mari Cruz (Turre) …...........…….950 479646 Pizzería Quick (Garrucha) .............................................950 132305 Provenzal (Mojácar Playa) ..........................................950 478308 Pulcinella (Mojácar Pueblo) .......................................950 478401 Samz (Los Gallardos) ..................................................950 398981 Sottocasa (Mojácar Playa) ........................................950 093075

PLASTERERS David Pritchard Construcciones ................................617 698418 Diamond Plastering and Building Services ...............665 706880

PLUMBERS 24hr Casaserve ..............................................950 466438 / 676 3062699 A-Z Plumbing & Heating …………..….616 888058 / 662 342669 A1 Services ………..............................635 810941 / 679 631458 Andy (Mojácar) ........................................................697 302039

POOLS & POOL MAINTENANCE 1 Stop Pool Shop ...............................950 104345 / 637 582696 24hr Casaserve .................................950 466438 / 676 306269 Aguafer Piscinas S.L. ................................................950 617064 Aguagéstion Cantoria (Maintenance) ……….............653 078040 Alloa Pool Care (Albox) ………….................…………..650 244018 Aquazul Piscinas ….....................................................647 841750 Blue Diamond Pool Care ..............................697238933

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Clean Pool Service (Arboleas) ...................................606 654389 Complete Pool & Property Maintenance 634 343541 / 634 891709

D & J Pritchard Construcciones ................................617 698418 Daniel ……………..................................................….642 236810 Guardian Angels (Pool Cleaning) …...950 466396 / 600 470778 Heat My Pool ....................................950 528128 / 663 303350 Hidro-Sport S.L. (Pebbletec) .................................…950 581407 IndalPool (Albox) …………...............................……..950 431859 Mat Murray ...............................................................647 841750 Oasis Pool Cleaning Services ............634 332170 / 634 332178 Piscinas Miguel (Maintenance) .............950 478652 / 607 480865 Pools & Piscinas (Cleaning - Bedar) ..........................637 915898 Pool Medics ……………...................................……….634 353525 Procare Pools (Arboleas) ..........................................642 370681 Proyectados Pool Sureste ............................................630 810299 Reflections Pool Services ........................................642 341603 Salvador (Pool Maintenance) ......................................696 426523 Sundance Spas - Pool Maintenance S.L. ....................950 472845 Tanby Piscinas ............……….............950 468230 / 609 888549 Triton Pool Cleaning ...............................................634 326322 Tropicana Swimming Pool Construction 650 906114 / 689 404244 True Blue Pools & Spas ..............................................661 148998

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Underwater Pool Services …….....................................628 662582 Blue Sea Villas (Mojácar) (See front cover).............….950 478643 Casa Benedict Rentals (Turre) …...………....…………616 189002 POSTAL SERVICES C.A.T. Services (La Alfoquía) (See p.26).950 634388 / 627 635514 Can Connect (Albox) …….........................................950 121149 Citrus Homes ...............................……......................638 849254 C.A.T. Services (La Alfoquía) (See p.31).950 634388 / 627 635514 Clean Team Property Care & Rentals 850 993202/ 642 911850 Connexions (Turre) ..................................................950 479502 Coastal Properties (Mojácar) ........................................950 475235 Forget-me-not (Las Buganvillas) ....................………..663 302740 Complete Holiday Care ....………...........950 478612 / 610 808631 Frankie’s Bar (Vera Playa) .........................................662 474861 Mail Boxes Etc (Vera) ................................................950 393835 Offex Spain ................................……..966 765950 / 661 386942 Spanish Property Choice (Easypost) ..950 615388 / 635 722290 The Post Shop (Albox) ………..............950 064584 / 635 979829 Total Entertainment (Albox) ......................................950 121318 Total Entertainment (Arboleas) .................................678 009051 Total Entertainment (Turre) .........................................950 468295

PRE-PAYMENT METERS Sol Digimeters ..........................................................634 348703

PRINTING & GRAPHIC DESIGN A1 Cheapest Print ….....................................………622 AdverGraf & AdverTees ..........................................634 Idea (Huércal Overa) ...............................................605 Mail Boxes Etc (Vera) ............................................950 Mobility Almería (Mojácar Playa) .............................634 neö-cöpy (Vera) …...................………..950 390424 / 622 Pronto Printing (La Buganvillas) (See cover).............950 GSF Communications (Mojácar) ..............................950

493499 336789 162709 393835 322475 262100 133492 473102

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE 24hr Casaserve .....................................950 466438 / 676 306269 ABS Advanced Building Services ..............................687 846016 Arboleas Builders ………...............……950 930536 / 634 306690 Can I Help You (Vera) ………..................................691 662267 Complete Pool & Property Maintenance 634 343541 / 634 891709 Curtis Helm Multiservices .........................................610 394815 D & D Property Care & Rentals ............643 335386 / 643 337063 Destination Spain Property Services .........................672 668803 Exclusive Holiday Villas ............................................950 092602 Hire a Hubby …………........................950 436679 / 619 066022 IDP Services …………................................................608 238775 Indalfutur S.L. (Mojácar) ……........….950 615156 / 609 026526 J & J Property Care ....…….................950 452106 / 617 657414 Jasmine Construction C.B ..........................................659 185189 Mode Services ...................................950 525790 / 687 033106 Mojacar Estates ..........................................................950 478935 Procare Property Service (Arboleas) .......................642 370681 Triton Property Maintenance ...................................634 326322

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & RENTALS Alhambra Holdings (Mojácar)...................950 475199 / 629 673450 Almería Property Agency (Arboleas) …..850 993099 / 606 281865 Almería Property Services .....................950 060135 / 660 734323 Almeria Rentals ................................. 650 764623 / 648 523073 Apartamentos Torrelaguna (Las Buganvillas) .............950 132580 APT Lets (Valle del Este) ….................950 619227 / 626 578164 Blaumar (Huercal Overa) .....................950 135512 / 670 869533

D & D Property Care, Sales & Rentals .......643 335386 / 643 337063

Destination Spain Property Services .........................678 203143 E-Property Almería ...................................................677 146592 Exclusive Holiday Villas ..........................................950 092602 Findmeahome ....................................951 914195 / 636 266641 Holiday Home Europe .........................950 120210 / 654 590258 Holiday Letting Service ........................950 472903 / 627 565049 Homes of Spain (Huércal Overa).........950 616516 / 616 562447 Indalfutur S.L. (Mojácar) ……........….950 615156 / 609 026526 Indalo Real Estate .............................950 091137 / 616 760409 Indasol Mojácar S.L. ..................……....................….950 472200 Inmoterreros ...................................................................666 255 765 KJ Property Maintenance (Albox /Arboleas) ............608 625675 KW Resorts Holiday Rentals ......................0044 (0)1293 863320 Loufa S.L.(Mojácar Pueblo) …..........................……..950 472773

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Mojácar Estates ........................................................950 478935

Mojácar Holiday Services .......................950 699947 / 634 972377 Mojácar Long Term Rentals …................................………950 475 891 Mojácar Property Maintenance & Decorators ………..649 304441 New Wave Villas (Mojácar) ................950 475800 / 607 146352 Noble Services ....................................................... 692 188200 Next Stop Almería ................................950 617518 / 678 034651 Price Brown Partnership (Mojácar) ............................950 478915 Rent Mojácar ............................................................950 615042 Santiburi Properties (Cabrera & Mojácar) 694 404971 / 647 901478 Sierra property Rentals (Bédar) ...............................678 587007

Spanish Property Choice (Mojacar) ..... 950 475823 / 634 351562 Sunshine Villas............................………850 993202 / 694 440184 Susana's Property Services ......................................649 759053 The Property Shop (Mojácar) ..................................950 475241 Triton Property Services ..........................................634 326322 Vera Holiday Rentals .............................................634 347109 Voss Homes (Huercal-Overa) ...................667 891 741 / 950 616 827 Year Round Holiday Rentals .............950 619178 / 627 763052

PROPERTY PROMOTERS Almanzora S.L. (Desert Springs) ...............................950 467104

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BMS Huerta Nueva ............................950 615035 / 669 355914 Elegant Homes S.L. ............................950 092603 / 687 629777 Elide Group S.L. …............….............950 390009 / 950 615076 El Pinar de Bédar ......................................................950 469496 GM Associates (Mojácar) ……….........……..............…950 475225 Miramar (Marina Golf) ................................................950 397060 New Villas (Albox) ………………........………..............…950 121036 Nicla Property Consultancy S.L. .................................950 133508 Polansky and Associates ..........................................950 478086 Promobys …………….................................................950 618889

PROPERTY VALUATIONS Philip Chesler (Chartered Valuer) …................………687 814369

PSYCHOLOGIST Dr. Jane Thompson ............................968 485729 / 618 920126

QUAD BIKES see Motorcycles RADIO STATIONS Cadena Ser Levante (Spanish, local and national) ....950 Onda Aguilas (100.1) ….............................................968 Plusfm ……….................................….609 818283 / 617 Smooth FM online (89.8) ........................................634 Spectrum FM (96.1) ............................950 615142 / 678

615006 447864 528121 332666 332815

REFRIGERATION MD Air Conditioning & Refrigeration SL .607 364917 / 607 366040 Thermotech …………….....................…950 069637 / 699 856372

REMOVALS & STORAGE See also Van & Man Hire Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 Amanda’s (Lubrin) ............................950 069682 / 634 310512 Andy (Trailer hire/drive) (Mojácar) ……...........…………..600 225 929 Brian’s Furniture & Removals (Mojácar Playa) .........674 280268

Countdown Removals (UK/Spain/UK) ..................…678 855994 Dave’s Transport (International / Local)....................620 049524 De Lima’s International Removals ........................+44 7467341106 English Move (Tony) ….............................................699 819213 Eurozone Removals UK(0044) 7452888063 Spain (0034) 662 569138 Indalo Transport .......................................................634 336468 Items For Sale Mojácar .......................694 439275 / 950 478753 J & B Removals (Albox) …......…………...................616 888058 Location Warehousing S.L. (Antas) .............................950 391412 Moovit Transport & Storage ...............950 930316 / 642 586701 Moves2Spain (Antas) ..........................950 452869 / 661 969393

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100

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Call 670 84 92 65 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com The New Delhi (Indian) ……...........….950 431705 / 639 231507

Alfaix La Venta de Alfaix .....................................................671 272464

Antas Asador Gloria …..............................…...950 453150 / 625 Cortijo Carlotta ......................................950 619226 / 638 El Fogon, Asador Argentino ........................................950 Mi Casa .................................................950 453007 / 950

668613 549646 459081 453048

Arboleas El Mirador …………….............................................…678 Happy Garden .........................................................950 Orange Box ...........................................................610 887757 Hostal Meson ………..........................950 430137 / 635 Reliable Removals (Albox) .UK 0044 1942 418951 Spain 664 857920 Hotel Rural Azabache ............................................690 Speedlink Logistics (Garrucha) ...................................637 011686 Bédar Sprinter Services (Vera Playa) .............605 376873 / 950 609121 El Paso ...................................................................678 St. George’s European …UK 0044 207 193 5984 / 952 485984 La Fuente .................................................................950 Storage Solutions (Arboleas) ................950 930316 / 671 220105 Malcolm’s Restaurant ..............................................634 UK Direct ..................UK 0044 7719.118.879 / Spain 642 099479 Miramar .....................................................................950 Union Jack Removals (International) ….......………….902 109560 Cabrera Swift Transport (Arboleas) ........................................618 511234 Los Pastores .............................................................950 Riad Cabrera ………………….....................................950

RESTAURANTS

See also Chinese Restaurants & Pizzerias

160806 120851 612738 258813 868963 469185 318633 469308 468002 092042

Cerro Gordo Bistro Bonita .......................................650 599739 / 950 930169

Cortijo Grande Casa Los Pinos ……......................…..950 468236 / 619 136877 Finca Listonero (See p.61)...........................................950 982045

Cucador La Vida

……….................................….........……….950 634562

Desert Springs Resort El Torrente Restaurant …....................................……637 861590 The Crocodile Club ...................................................678 746706

El Campico (Bédar-Lubrin) La Montaña ...............................................................950 398856

Agua Amarga

El Marchal

La Chumbera ............................................................950 168321 El Paniajo ................................................................950 477202 Restaurant Family ......................................................950 138014

El Pilar de Lubrin

Aguilas Carlos III ..................................................................968 411650 El Faro .....................................................................968 412883 El Guacamole (Mexican) ...........................................968 413491 Hotel El Paso ...........................................................968 447125 La Calica (Hotel Cala Real) .....................................968 414562 La Vía ........................................................................646 430496 Piccolo Mondo ............................................................968 411946

Restaurante Albar ....................................................950 069077

Garrucha Angus & Hereford .....................................................950 Casa Adriana ...........................................................950 GBG ……………...................................950 132625 / 639 Góndola ....................................................................950

Albox Club de Tenis …….....................................…………..667 671578 El Gallego ...........................................950 120590 / 615 717978 La Cena ……........................................……………..950 430930 La Parrilla ................................................................950 430024 Little India (Albox) ….................................................632 454505 Maloan’s Bar ….........................................................634 300752 Mesón de Irene ………........................647 730103 / 950 430145 Oliver’s Bar …............................................................950 930988 Paché ….....................................................................950 431659

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101

460588 133154 915993 133928

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La Gurulla ………................................................….657 La Plazoleta ……….........................................…….666 Maui Gastro ….................................................………950 Nautico …................................................................622 Restaurante Andalucia ..............................................950 Restaurante Azul, Hotel Tikar ...................................950 Rincón del Puerto …….......................950 133042 / 950 Tierra y Mar .............................................................850

058929 711997 460882 451935 460604 617131 133043 992808

Huércal-Overa El Capricho …........................................................697 297235

Las Alparatas (Mojácar) La Capilla ..................................................................950 479305 Burladero ...................................................................950 Cafetería Pizzería Alcazaba ………...........................645 La Alfoquía Bar La Unión ...........................................................642 008003 Captain’s Tapas Bar & Restaurant ...........................617 Cielos …..................................................................634 393235 Casa Egea .................................................................950 El Local ……......................................950 634449 / 633 684855 Los Mellízos …………................................……………667 919025

615041 414793 477797 472190

Lijar Mesón La Hoya ........................................................638 298507

Limaria Welcome Stranger …........................………...........….950 432719

Los Carasoles Restaurante Kalevala ...............................................607 484414

Los Castaños Cortijo Las Piezas ........................……..950 951498 / 634 780943

Los Gallardos

Casa Juan …………................................................….950 450305 Apolo ……...................................................…………..600 495182 Cortijo de la Media Luna ..........................................950 478813 Bistro @ the Colosseum .............................................615 387947 d’Angelo .....................................................................950 478517 Delfín Dorado......................................950 475212 / 645 220095 Dolce Vita ................................................................950 478476 El Deseo .................................................................670 018035

La Ambrosia ..............................................................950 093086 Meson Verfran ....................................................………637 810143 Miraflores ...........................................679 970399 / 609 506869

Mojácar See also Mojácar Pueblo Agra Taj (Indian) ......................................................602 Al Punto (Brazilian) (See p.2)....................................950 Antonella (Italian) .............................................……..950 Azeefa (Indian) ...................................950 109758 / 660 Badgers ...................................................................950 Bar Alizee ...............................................................950 Beachcomber ...........................................................634 Bellavista ..................................................................950 Botaniq ...................................................................696 Bowen Resto Bar .............................. 666 406203 / 634

197417 475899 450215 173987 478525 091810 339216 478800 809035 357654

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El Gaucho ................................................................950 El Sitio ....................................................................950 Enrico (Italian) ...................................950 472995 / 642 Imperial (Italian) .......................................................950 Imperial Playa (Italian) ..............................................950 Indalo Beach ……………...........................................950 Indian Curry House ...........................632 416554 / 632 Kukis ..........................................................................686

478846 615411 514738 478098 475360 099119 711667 038259

Restaurante Martín Morales .....................................950 478812 Restaurante Mediterráneo ..........................................950 472268 Robert (Marina de la Torre) …………..............………950 110412 Sal Marina ...................................................................950 472405 Sensations ................................................................950 472057 Sottocasa (Italian) ...................................................950 093075 The Irish Rover (See p.43).........................................950 473135 The Lemon ....................……...............................…….950 472659 The Roof Garden .....................................................674 113218 Torre Bahía ...............................................................950 478651 Trufibar ....................................................................664 103611 Twister ...................................................………………950 472357 Zaika Fusion ..........................................................632 727851

Mojácar Pueblo

La Cabaña ................................................................950 615179 La Cantina (Mexican) ................................................950 478941 La Caracola .............................................................622 520925 La Cometa ...............................................................950 615209 La Estancia …….............................................………654 562396 La Gaviota ……………...............................................950 472117 La Parata (See p.7)..............................................…950 478186 La Piká ....................................................................950 930744 La Posada …............................................................661 595845 La Table de Cathy (French) …..............…………….650 745807 Le Magnifique …………….......................................…634 310816 Los Amigos ......................................…………………950 478489 Mesón Felipe San Bernabé ...................…………….950 475966 Meson Mémé …........…………………..674 141159 / 647 954405 Mandala Beach Club ................................................902 442420 Meson de Perico ....................................................950 615582 Mountains of the Moon (Indian) ........950 472002 / 637 914632 Mont Martre (French) ..............................................634 388867 Neptuno (See p.41) ................................................…616 005387 Omega ........................................................................950 475317 Ostería Ristorante Italiano ..........................................950 615151 Ottocento (Italian).......................................................950 615100 Palacio Imperial Marina (Thai, Japanese, Chinese) ...950 472208 Parador de Mojácar ...................................................950 478250 Playa Blanca (See p.63)........................950 473001 / 639 507520

Arlequíno ..........................................950 478037 / 649 337781 Casa Minguito ………...............................................950 478614 El Ángel ..........................................950 478343 / 607 537101 El Antler ……....................................................……600 540661 El Reclamo …….......................................................950 472881 La Candela …...........................................................647 724367 Pulcinella (Italian) .....................................................950 478401 Restaurante Aires del Sur ..................606 061811 / 950 478014 Restaurante Calima ………………........................….663 286962 Restaurante Mamabel's ....................... 663 700542 / 950 472448 Rincón de Embrujo …....................…………………….600 531270 Rincon de Zahorí ................................630 314400 / 625 103672

Palomares Asagía Asador .........................................................640 210185 The Oasis Bar ...................................950 467381 / 676 365010

Partaloa Mis Amigos ..............................................…………….671 608498

Pueblo Laguna Bistro .......................................................................950 132022

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Restaurant Laguna …………….........................……..950 132566

Urcal

San Juan de Los Terreros

The Palms …………...............................950 958167 / 678 832036

Mi Cortijo …………......................................................950 466323

Vera

Turre

Casa de la Vega ......................................................950 391208 El Paseo de Oscar ...................................................950 392496 Gran Muralla (Wok Buffet) ..........................................950 391691 La Mariposa de Fran ………........……..950 166774 / 683 641957 Terraza Carmona ...................................................950 390760

Chili .................................................608 802227 / 950 Hostal Rural .............................................................950 La Pará ……………………..................................…….637 Orsoca ………………............................................…..602 Pizzeria El Desvío (Turre) ........................................607 Pizzeria-Restaurante Mari Cruz ……....................…..950

468425 478806 545590 554609 804488 479646

Vera Playa b2 Mohana (Argentinean) ........................................678 642856

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El Balconcito .............................................................635 589909 Gateway to India (Indian) ...........................................950 923994 La Buena Mesa …………..…................950 467222 / 610 356387 La Pampa (Argentinean Grill) ……….950 397702 / 671 653116 Maraú (Vera Playa) ……………...........................……671 580340 Restaurante Tibu ......................................................950 133747 Taj Mahal (Indian) …............…………950 618691 / 671 231465 The Blue Parrot ......................................................950 467682

Villaricos

SECOND HAND Buy Buy Auctions (Los Carasoles)..................................681 095096 Amanda’s (Lubrin) ............................950 069682 / 634 310512 Brian’s Furniture & Removals (Mojácar Playa) .........674 280268 Designer Thrift (Albox) ...........................................950 064576 Merka Recycla (Huércal Overa) .........950 616683 / 666 577006 Second Time Around (Albox) .......................................950 431871 The Attic (Cucador) ..…….…................672 184354 / 648 250699 The Treasure Trove (Turre) ……….................………..666 281316

Don Tadeo ..................................................................670 860386 SECURITY & SAFES See Alarms Goah ........................................................................950 467030 SEWING La Esperanza ............................................................625 737025 Los Conteros ....................................950 618629 / 699 010705 Alice .........................................................................620 876485 Coser y Planchar (Vera) .........................................689 303765 Zurgena Tiger Bar (Indian) …..................................................950 449000 Alexis Shillinglaw .....................................................642 107453 J.F.M. Modas Sedal (Turre) ..............950 468031 / 606 945502 Lola Alterations & Repairs (Mojácar Playa) .950 475994 / 637 963835 RETRACTABLE ROOF SYSTEMS Lifestyle Enclosures Europe S.L. (See p. 9) 950 459060 / 638 063196 Nicky (Mojacar) ..................................................... 667 479903 Solo Style .............................................950 528334 / 626 319907 ROOFING Sew n Sew Susie (Albox area) ..........950 930643 / 633 683872 Ark Roofing ...............................................................634 379173 The Sewing Room ....................................................607 375697

RUGS & CARPETS Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 SEPTIC TANK SERVICE Homecentre (Albox) (See p.6)..........868 931872 / 671 715294 Drainage Solutions …...........………….616 531283 / 670 P & R Rugs (Los Llanos de Aroleas) .......................665 258680 Blocked DrainsRUs ............................950 091109 / 648 Ginés Millán (All areas) ……….............(after 4pm) 607 RURAL TOURISM Lymasur (Vera) ……..........................950 390732 / 609 2 Poplars (Velez Blanco) ……...............................….670 243856 Sepserve (All areas) …..............................................675 Cortijo Pocio de la Nava (Mojácar) ............................670 777752 Septic Tanks Cleaned ……….....................…………..675 Finca Arboleda (Vera) ..............................................678 027656 Mi Abuela Maria (Mojácar) ……..........................……659 198424 SHOE REPAIRS Keys Copy Centre (Mojácar Playa) ..........................950

SATELLITE TV

ABC (A Better Climate) (See p.29).....647 247494 / 950 092604 Cuevasat ...........................................950 523740 / 628 153340 DCM Digitek Comms (Mojácar) (See p.19) .950 472947 / 670 084438 Digital Vision (See p.33......................950 472081 / 645 294064 Europa Digital ....................................950 133233 / 678 332815 GBTV (Albox and Mojácar) .......................................616 888058 GSF Communications (Mojácar) ...............................950 473102 Solo Satellite & Air-Con. (See p.55) ......950 398146 / 699 909737

088966 768587 366355 442695 838808 838808 472982

SIGNS (Shop & Vehicle) Ian (Hand Painted) …………….....................………..634 313796 Idea (Huércal Overa) ...............................................605 162709 Pronto Printing (La Buganvillas) (See cover).............950 133492

SKIN TREATMENTS

Francesca Herman (See p.37)....….......................….687 480694

SKIP HIRE Aridos Mojácar S.L. .................................................650 914257 Servacon .................................................................950 475853

SCREENED PATIO & POOL ENCLOSURES

SNOOKER HALLS

Enclose My Pool ...............................606 040462 / 670 510097 CD Snooker Mojácar ............................634 364311 / 609 026526 Inside Out In Europe S.L. .................677 114576 / 695 118960 Lifestyle Enclosures Europe S.L. (See p. 9) 950 459060 / 638 063196 Screenmasters (See p.45)......….…...........................677 152911 Sol Shaders S.L. (See p.45)........................................627 907207

SCUBA DIVING Buceo (Aguilas) ……………......................................968 Buceo Mojácar ..................................950 472760 / 629 Molasub (Villaricos) ............................950 467572 / 675 SES (Aguilas) ………..................................................669

493215 049229 321404 040963

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AVSA Lawyers (Aguilas) ..........................................968 446576 SOLAR ENERGY DCM Digitek Comms (Mojácar) (See page 19)...........950 472947 Babelia (Mojácar) ……..........…........635 577562 / 950 397114 Ecocorp ....................................................................671 716597 C & P Solicitors (Mojácar) ….....…………950 460731 / 675 383 160 Cabrera Cervantes (Turre) ................950 099400 / 627 464545 Casas Almería (Huércal Overa) .................................950 134434 Davies Solicitors (Mojácar) ........................................950 472775 EuroAbogados (Vera) .................................................950 617017

Hi-Tec Solar (Turre) ............................609 888549 / 950 Hispavan Solar ..................................950 047033 / 687 Solartech (Las Buganvillas) …..............................….950 Sunergy Almeria ........................................................636

468230 845730 139568 261240

Javier Loustau (Mojácar) .........................................950 SOLICITORS José Francisco López Molina .............950 133607 / 635 Alonso & Garrido (Albox) ...........................................950 121040 Leticia Moreno-Torres Camy (Vera) ......950 391249 / 607 Alonso & Haro (Vera) ..............................................950 392208 AM & RG (Mojácar) ………….............950 478984 / 649 286437 Lopez & León Solicitors (Garrucha) ..950 888314 / 666

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475086 189986 840182 513917

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Mario Redondo (Albox) ….................950 430222 / 626 389322 SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS Miguel Angel Rojas Benitez .......................................950 615404 La Maruja (Mojácar) ................... ................................664 647171 Pablo Suarez (Purchena) ..........................................610 014680 Mundi Abogados (Las Buganvillas) ........................950 460999 SWEET SHOPS Ramírez Abogados (Vera) .......................................950 391171 Forget Me Not (Las Buganvillas)..............................663 302740 Ross Legal Services (Aguilas) .................................968 412321 TATTOO ARTISTS Ruiz Orozco (Vera) ..................................................950 390282 Body-Zone Tattoo (Mojácar) ……………......................634 336789 Saugar Abogados (Mojácar) ......................................950 615038 Classic Tattoo (Mojácar Playa) .................................605 611782 Lisa V Tattoos (Cantoria) ....................634 362737 / 642 024810 SPAS IndalOcio (Arboleas) ................................................850 993090 Oscar (Mojácar Pueblo) …................................…….629 944374 Sundance Spas (Mojácar) .......................................950 472845

TAXIS (Legal)

Levante Radio Taxis (all areas)................................950 888111 Exclusive Shuttles pre-booked airport taxis (office hours).950 092602 Taxi Emilia (Arboleas) ..............................................618 968497

TELECOMMUNICATIONS Albox-Online ………..............................…………….950 091111 AlmeriNet-Cheap Calls .........................950 479517 / 627 027758 Euphony Mojacar .........................................................677 146592 Connexions (Turre) (See front cover)..........................950 479502 Indalphone .............................(Mojácar) 950 475784 / 622 455 608 Indalphone ...........................................(Huércal-Overa) 950 471470

SPA SERVICING & CLEANING True Blue Pools & Spas ..........................................661 148998

STAINED GLASS Janet Broady ….............................…........................950 130627

SURVEYORS Philip Chesler (Chartered Surveyor).............................687 814369 Survey Andalucía (Architect Daniel González) ............686 846624 Sapphire Surveyors ………...................950 064725 / 671 208782

GSF Communications (Mojácar) ..................................950 473102 Maso Telefonia (Albox) ……..............................………….950 121279 MaxiMovil – Plus S.L. Orange ....................................950 393538 Next .............................................................................950 479369 Phone@ Mojacar …….............……....950 882222 / 607 885522 Servcom (Turre) ........................................................902 023268 Telitec Connections S.L. ..............……902 889070 / 965 743473 The Phone House (Albox) …………….950 121045 / 670 359698 WiFi Internet .............................................................950 615156

To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

107

Free directory entries.

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TILING & PATIO WORK 1 Stop Paving (Albox) ………................................…634 313939 ABS Advanced Building Services ..............................687 846016 A.J.B. Tiling Services ...............................................687 024884 Andalucian Con Co Print .........................................628 408197 Arboleas Paving ……………...............................…….636 092632 Borders .....................................................................647 803030 C.I.S Services (Arboleas) ........................................619 693118 Curtis Helm Multiservices .........................................610 394815 Diamond Plastering and Building Services ..............671 717149 Elegant Homes S.L. ..............................950 092603 / 687 629777 Garden Works .....................................950 132518 / 666 847583 Mode Services ...................................950 525790 / 687 033106 Saxon’s Complete Building Services ......618 920126 / 686 377172 Steve Holman .......................................................... 697 678708 United Tile ................................................................667 702817 Vision Design & Build ...............................................672 153298

TIMBER SUPPLIERS Wood2Go ..............................................950 614050 / 606 156151

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Jewellery making ......................................................642 435909 Kinder Garrucha (Bilingual Education Centre)..950 047026 / 671 608519 La Galeria Art Classes (Albox) …..............................663 341904 Laberinto (Spanish, English, French, Dutch) .............609 781438 Leticia (Spanish Conversation) ……......................…950 615566 Marcela Chávez (Spanish-English school support)....676 951352 Native Spanish Teacher (All levels) ………………….670 619017 Native Spanish Tuition ..............................................661 654812 Pencils English Academy (Garrucha)..........................634 314110 Penny Baltrus (Piano) ...............................................662 517106 Piano (Mojácar) …………............……950 069803 / 667 408941 Piano tuition. Terry Peace (Limaria/Albox.) ...............868 931815 Professional Writing Services …..........………………..662 067490 Sam Catchlove (Professional drum/latin percussion) ..950 634402 Sarah Dyson (Computer tuition) …....................……687 632435 Simon Farmiloe (Spanish & English)(Albox/Mojacar) 647 677097 Tennis Coach (Diego Rodriguez) ........950 393851 / 607 021280 The I.T.Teacher (Computer Tuition)...............................695 280699

TV & AUDIO REPAIRS Ponce S.L. (Garrucha) ..............................................950 617181 Seth Pittham (Zurgena).......................950 634477 / 666 826886

Almería Castle ………............................................…950 271617 Almería Solar Centre ( Nr.Tabernas) ....950 387990 / 670 866122 Aquarium (Roquetas de Mar) ...................................950 160036 Camelus (Mojácar Camel Rides) ………663 930272 / 950 100076 Fort Bravo – Western theme park (Tabernas) .....….950 165405 Nautarium (Sea Museum) (Garrucha) ………………….950 139554 Nijar Butterfly Farm .................................................617 692778 Oasys Western Park & Zoo (Tabernas) ….............….950 365236 Western Leone Theme park (Tabernas) …............…950 165405

TRANSLATING - see Interpreters TRANSPORT - see Removals TRAVEL

UNIFORMS

Tikka Uniforms & Shoes (Mojácar) …..........................667 479903 Autocares Rodriguez (Coaches) ...............................950 469061 Uniformes de Levante (Los Gallardos & Vera) ..........902 110218 Halcón Viajes (Vera) ................................................950 393472 UPHOLSTERY Exclusive Airport Shuttles (See p.11).......................950 092602 Albox Rugs (upholstery cleaning) .............................950 633149 Inda Travel (Mojácar) ..............................................950 472431 Curtains with Style (Fabrics) ............ 950 069032 / 678 811125 Levante Travel (Garrucha) ...................950 132258 / 628 604752 Jone’s Mobile (Upholstery cleaning) …....……………661 571939 Mojácar Tour (Mojácar Playa) (See cover)..........…..950 475757 Unicraft (Upholstery) .................................................692 176069 Viajes Yedra Tours (Aguilas) ...................................968 412498 Viajes Zafiro Tours (Aguilas) ....................................968 410197 Zafiro Tours (Albox) ………..................................……950 121021

TUITION Computer Training & Tuition Call Out (Dani) ...........678 Dave Eccles (Drum lessons) ..............950 525790 / 687 ELC Education & Language Centre .........................950 Espanglish .........................................950 390037 / 950 Girasol, Albox (Spanish) ..........................................639 Guillermo (Spanish conversation, Antas)...................647 Guitar Lessons ………….....................................…..667 Guitar Lessons (Chris Pottle) ................................950 Hind (French & Arabic, Mojácar) ...............................616 Jane Catchlove (Piano/keyboards/violin A.R.C.M) ...950 Jose (Spanish Lessons) ..........................................667

490639 033106 615489 392876 089170 525639 989270 437606 Upholstery & Leather Cleaning ......................................636 193256 605341 Upholstery Larios (Cuevas del Almanzora) 950 465 364 / 651 998738 634402 303376

To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

108

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VAN & MAN HIRE See also Removals & Storage Amanda’s (Lubrin) ............................950 069682 / 634 310512 Andy (Trailer hire/drive) (Mojácar) ……...........…………..600 225 929 IDP Services ……........................................................608 238775 Indalo Transport .......................................................634 336468 Storage Solutions (Arboleas) ................950 930316 / 671 220105 Way 2 Go (UK/Spain) ……UK 0044 208 0904292 / 965 794682

VEHICLE IMPORTATION Car Check Spain (Andy) ............................................618 043186 Hispavan vehicle importation ..............950 047033 / 687 845730 Talleres Daydo (Antas Real) ….……….950 459116 / 607 373298

VEHICLE REPAIRS Auto Corner (Turre/Los Gallardos) ….950 069198 / 667 439671 Auto Shine Body Repairs ………........607 324623 / 607 324624 CostaCoches ...........................................................950 459209 Gómez Motor (Huércal-Overa) ............662 502895 / 950 471250 Mojácar Motor (Mojácar Playa) ……..950 478335 / 950 475776 Reparbox (DIY) (Antas El Real) .........687 879744 / 628 648131 SRS Vehicle Services ................................................950 449095 Taller Daydo (El Real) .........................950 459116 / 607 373298 Talleres Azor ..(Mojácar) 950 478519 ..............(Vera) 950 391400 Talleres Fad (Aguilas) …...........................................968 447565 Talleres Vizcaino (Mojácar) ........................................950 472104 The Car Surgery ...................................................666 272792 The Garage (Llanos de Arboleas) .......950 930922 / 616 453813 Tyre King (El Real) ................................................950 459253

Veloc Tuning ECU Remapping Services ..................600 827517

VEHICLE SALES

Buy Buy Auctions ...................................................681 095096 Auto Corner (Turre/Los Gallardos) ….950 069198 / 667 439671 AutoFex (Albox & Antas El Real) ............................950 431861 Automobiles Bajuma S.L. (Antas) .............................662 167758 Automobiles Playcar SLU ...................950 459302 / 672 737663 VEHICLE REPAIRS (MOBILE) Albox Service Centre S.L. …......................................662 093051 CostaCoches (Antas, El Real).....................................950 459209 Auto Frio .............................................950 104488 / 600 827517 Mojácar Motors ...950 472056 ................(Workshop) 950 478335 Cool Air (Air Conditioning) .......................................673 195872 Nissan (Albox) ………..................................................950 430856

To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

109

Free directory entries.

Call 670 84 92 65 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com

Pit Stop (Oria) ……………....................................…..950 Que Coches Almería (Antas) …...................................627 SRS Vehicle Services ................................................950 Talleres Azor ...............(Mojácar) 950 478519 (Vera) 950

124828 423675 449095 391400

James .......................................................................678 Lady Jane Window Cleaning (Arboleas) ...................634 Mick ...........................................................................634 Teresa Jimenéz …………….............................……..636 Window Panes ..................................633 814809 / 677 VEHICLE SHIPPING Car Shipping ………………UK 0044 1704 575983 / 671 101220 Woody the Window Cleaner (Almanzora Valley) .......634

988812 255373 327075 119538 689077 349665

WINDOWS & DOORS

VETS

Animal Care (La Alfoqúia) …....................................950 449064 AA Window Doctor .............................630 231644 / 636 838484 Astrid (Mojácar) ..............950 472252 Emergencies: 629 099920 David A. Pritchard Construcciones ............................617 698418 Direct Trade Windows ............................................. 662 118785 Enrique Aguirre S.L. (Garrucha) .................................950 460028 Interglaze ……..............................….950 121909 / 680 743311 Lifestyle Enclosures Europe S.L. (See p. 9) 950 459060 / 638 063196 Mojácar Home Improvements .............950 473104 / 689 296432

Clinica (Albox) ...............950 430814 Emergencies: 617 305784 Clinica Huellas (Aguilas) ...968 447877 Emergencies 629 445327 CliniVet (Turre) …..........................…..950 069780 / 626 171999 Costa Indalo (Mojácar) ....950 475213 Emergencies: 659 957942 Egesta Centro Vetinario (Vélez Rubio) ..950 411208 / 608 438683 Europa (Mojácar) .................950472262 Emergencies: 629 099921 Javier .............(Garrucha) 950 132200 Emergencies: 619 236059 NEXO (Albox) …...............950 430814 Emergencies: 617 305784 Veravet (Vera Town) …............…............................….667 304876 Veterinary Centre (Huércal-Overa) …........................950 616781

WATER (Tanker Delivery)

Ortega Windows & Doors .......................................950 Planet Windows …...............................950 449639 / 664 Plas-Tech Windows ...................................................600 Screenmasters (See p.45)......….….........................677 Speedyfit ...........................................950 439228 / 600 Standard Windows (Antas) ........................................950

Sierra Cabrera Water ...................…………………….693 866558

393305 327863 320761 152911 006032 393121

WINES

WATER PARK

Bodega Gran Baco (Aguilas) .............................…..968 411538 Aquavera (Vera Playa) ....................................................950 467337 Enoteca Tikar (Garrucha) ……..............................….950 617131 Isalva (Palomares) ………..........................................615 265092 WATER TREATMENTS Wine Not? (Mojácar Playa) ....................................950 100077 Ashley Reliable Plumbing ………..........................…..610 052407 WOOD & PELLET STOVES Healthy H2O ..............................................968 437270 / 666 302 987 Chimeneas Acar (Albox) ...........................................950 120077 WEB SERVICES Chimeneas Mojácar S.L. (Mojácar Playa) ..............950 472135 Divine Logix ...........................................................617 401332 Enrique Aguirre S.L. (Garrucha) .................................950 460028 Image Suite ………........................................................647 918 848 ZOO & PARK MODS ........................................................................600 284975 Paginasweb .......................................902 005799 / 911 011505 Oasys (Tabernas) ....................................................950 365236 WebFaze .................................................................601 628137

WEDDING & PARTY PLANNING Weddings in Spain .....................................................950 475826

WINDOW CLEANING Clean Team …………..............………850 993202 / 694 440184 Cristal Clear Windows (Mojácar) …..........……………634 347193 Don (Mojacar) .........................................................666 814913 Idea (Mojácar) ...................................................……..605 162709 J&A Window Cleaning Services ..........950 122452 / 689 548824

The Almería Focus is the magazine that everyone keeps to hand. If you want to advertise your business, just call Rob on 619 833 041, Clara (español) on 670 849 265 or email almeriafocus@gmail.com

To place a box advert or ask for prices, call Rob on 619 833 041

110

Useful Telephone Numbers Emergencies (Multi-lingual)...................112 Health Emergencies: Life Threatening .........................................061 Other Health Emergencies...........902505061

HACIENDA (TAX OFFICE) Huércal Overa .......................950 470209 / 950 471013

FUNERAL DIRECTOR Albox (Funerarias Teruel) .......................................950 430122 Guardia Civil ..................................................062 Huércal Overa (Colly Fer) ...............................950 616161 Local Police ....................................................092 Garrucha (Funerarias Funerga) ..............................950 460295 Coast Guard .................................900 202 202 Mojácar (Funeraria Pérez) ...................................950 478102 Vera (Funeraria Ntra. Sra. de las Angustias) ..950 390884 AIRPORTS Almeria airport .....…..............…902 404 704 / 950 213 700 HOSPITALS Huércal-Overa, Alicante airport ….............………913 211 000 / 966 919 000 Hospital La Inmaculada..................................................950 029000 San Javier airport ……...……….902 404 704 / 968 172 000 Almería Torrecárdenas............................................950 016000 Almería,Virgen del Mar (Private).....................950 217100 BRITISH EMBASSY Virgen del Mar Emergencies:............................950 217240 Madrid ......................................................................917 146300 LOCAL POLICE BRITISH CONSULATE Albox ...............................................................................950 121080 Málaga (for this area) ................................................952 352300 Carboneras .................................................................950 136136 Cuevas del Almanzora ................................................950 548700 UK PASSPORT INFORMATION Garrucha ............................................................................950 460002 www.gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports Huércal-Overa ..............................................................950 470585 Mojácar ...........................................................................950 472000 EMERGENCY UK PASSPORTS Pulpi ……………......................................................................950 465049 www.gov.uk/emergency-travel-document Vera .................................................................................950 390010 CREDIT CARDS 24hr EMERGENCIES 4B(Visa/Mastercard) …..902 114400 / 913 626200 American Express …...................................................900 814500 Diners Club …..........................................................902 401112 Mastercard …..........................................................900 971231 Servired (Visa/Mastercard) …............................902 192100 Visa …..........................................................................900 991124

TOWN HALLS Albox ....................................................................................950 120908 Antas ............................................................................950 619015 Arboleas .............................................................................950 449430 Cuevas del Almanzora .................................................950 456488 Los Gallardos ....................................................................950 469000 Garrucha ...............................................................................950 460058 Huércal-Overa ...............................................................950 134900 Mojácar ...........................................................................950 615009 ELECTRICITY Sevillana Endesa Enquiries: ..................(free).800 760333 Turre ..................................................................................950 479011 Breakdowns:.........................(free).900 850840 Vera .....................................................................................950 393016 WATER Galasa Enquiries: ..................................................950 391200 TELEPHONE (Telefonica) Breakdowns: ...........................................902 355575 Normal Operator ..................................................................1004 Gestagua (Albox) ....................................................950 120649 Faults Operator ....................................................................1002 International Operator ......................................................11825 GAS Speaking Clock .........................................................................093 Cepsa (Silver bottles) Leaks ….......................902 100224 Cepsa, information …......................................902 416416 TAXIS See Directory pages Repsol (Red bottles) Leaks .......................901 121212 Repsol, information .........................................901 100100 MOBILES LOST OR STOLEN (From any 'phone) ITV (Spanish M.O.T. Centres) Orange …........................................................................656 001470 Vera, Albox, Veléz Rubio Telefónica Movistar …............................................095 702611 Central number ……………........................................959 999999 Vodafone …....................................................................607 123000 Yoigo …..................................................................................622 622622 TRAINS Renfe www.horarios.renfe.es ……..........…….902 240202

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Community News use - slicing through the bamboo which was covering so much of the shelter plus overhanging branches from surrounding trees. His wife Ann supplied lunch along with Janet Franklin and Anneli Lofstrom - all members of the PAWS-PATAS executive committee. Other members Kris Wessels-Coles (treasurer) and Chrissie Cremore (publicity) carried, raked, sorted and generally put their backs into whatever was More Homes to be Regularized in needed. A special thanks also goes to DOG WATCH Cantoria UK - Denise, John, Sarah and Keith made a special More homes in the town of Cantoria can now be trip and they help home so many of our dogs in regularised as the town hall responds to pressure England. from the Partido Popular in opposition and from the homeowner’s group AUAN to add El Faz to the list It is also with great delight that we can report that of areas it proposes to remove from the town plan. our Kitten Coffee and Cake morning in Las Buganvillas This move will enable property owners in El Faz to raised 263 euros, 3 kittens were adopted and many apply for an AFO, a document that will allow many bags of kitten food and litter were donated. All such to finally obtain title deeds for their homes after an amazing help to our cattery. more than a decade of uncertainty. The town hall indicated its intention to remove the We need volunteers in all areas of our charity, DIY, areas of Media Legua and Los Garcias from the plan driving, administration (which you can do from home), in August via the publication of a modification to its fundraising, walking dogs, playing with kittens, helping outline plan or Avance. This led to a formal objection at the shelter, working in our Fundraising Outlets. from the Partido Popular councillors who insisted For all information regarding PAWS-PATAS please that El Faz should be given equal treatment and not visit our website www.paws-patas.org or email condemn the residents of this area to “an uncertain info@paws-patas.org. future for many years”. AUAN´s president Maura Hillen said “We are very Mojácar Hosts Spanish Basketball pleased with this development. It is the only sensible Championship for Those with Learning option for town halls wishing to see their residents Disabilities obtain paperwork in their lifetimes. That is to say, take the houses off the plan, let residents resolve Mojácar recently played host to the ‘FEDDI 2018’ their legal difficulties using an AFO, and then put Spanish Basketball Championship, especially designed them back on again, if it makes sense to do so. Of for people with learning disabilities, which attracted course, it would make even more sense if one could 26 teams from 9 different autonomous communities. apply for an AFO whilst the planning process is on- The event was organized by the Spanish Sports going but the government of Susana Diaz (PSOE) Federation for People with Intellectual Disabilities, appears to have missed this point as parliament FEDDI, in collaboration with both Mojácar and rejected our proposals to allow this only last week”. Garrucha Councils, the Carriles Foundation, Almería Provincial Council, the Sports Council, the ONCE Foundation, Liga 4Sports and the Spanish Paralympic Ground Force Day Committee, as well as several national companies. PAWS-PATAS would like to thank all the lovely Just under 300 male and female participants, spread volunteers who came to help at their "Ground Force" across six categories, battled their way through the weekend at the shelter. Especially Malcolm Stevens contest, following all the Spanish Basketball as well who supplied us with an industrial chainsaw and as FEDDI regulations. With a Championship at stake strimmer - which his assistant David put to amazing in each category, the finals were very tight, with the

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Community News Almería women’s team, Los Carriles, making a great position as Spanish runner-up. Presentations were made at the closing ceremony by the respective Sports Councillors for Mojácar and Garrucha, Ana Garcia and Juan Pedro Molina with Championship medals presented to all the players who came in the first three in each category, as well as team trophies and mementos for all participants. The level of participation amongst the young people from the region was very impressive, packing out the local sports pavilion throughout the games and enthusiastically supporting every ball in the basket, opponent or not, with resounding applause and encouragement. Needless to say, the FEDDI Sports Spanish Federation and team representatives were very keen to show their appreciation for all the work and superb organization done for the event by Mojácar and Garrucha Councils and Los Carriles Foundation in assisting the players and families who attended the games. Mojácar Council, as first time hosts of this important national event provided all medical logistics with essential stand by staff and full ambulance support, in addition to very welcome refreshments.

approach to the right, is a necessary step towards completing the works on the new Town Hall building while improving safety for pedestrians and road traffic. The project was drafted by Almería's Provincial Council and put out to tender with a budget of 180,000 Euros. Albaida Infraestructuras, S.A. won with a bid of 148,629 Euros, saving 31,370 Euros.The financing, included in the 2015-2019 Provincial Plans, will be met by Almería’s Provincial Council who will pay 99,000 Euros with a contribution of 49,629 Euros from the local Council. This part of the project is expected to take three months and, although the street will remain open to road traffic, the Council has recommended school and nursery parents as well as users of the municipal sports centre to use the road that goes from La Fuente to the cemetery roundabout in order to avoid traffic congestion. Mojácar’s Mayor, Rosa María Cano, has also announced that other works will be put out to tender before the end of the year, some of which will be due to be completed before that date. Others will remain pending for next year while the relevant administrative procedures are concluded. LED street lamps are due to be installed around the Parque Comercial, El Faz and Marina de la Torre, costing 73,519 Euros. One of the most pressing tasks, however, is at Mojácar’s cemetery with the construction of 84 new niches, 36 columbariums and an area especially for families who will be able to place a memorial plaque after scattering the ashes of their loved ones. Additionally, roof repairs are to be carried out, along with maintenance and general improvements that are traditionally carried out at this time of year ready for the commemoration of All Saints Day. A Council Plenary session also approved the purchase

Mojácar Council Begins Work on La of an electric vehicle to replace the one that currently Avenida Paris and Other Projects Before carries out cleaning work in the old town, with the the End of the Year aim of reducing the current disturbance and noise Aong with the commencement of building the new Seniors Residence, Mojácar Council is set to start a number of works, including along La Avenida Paris, in front of what is to be the town’s future Town Hall. The widening and reinforcement of this section, an area which currently has no pavement on the

pollution to residents. In the beach area, zebra crossings will be repainted, as well as work done to road signs. The existing pedestrian protection railing from the beach to the Pueblo will have the remaining 80 metres installed by the Curva Pereta, with a budget of 6,500 Euros.

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What’s On Almería Mozart’s opera ‘La Flauta Mágica’ (The magic flute) comes to the Auditorio Maestro Padilla in Almería city on November 9th at 9pm. It is performed by the cast, choir, and orchestra from the company Lírica Opera 2001 with a cast of 90. Tickets are 25 & 30 Euros. The 17th Almería Film Festival takes place November 17th-24th at the Maestro Padilla Auditorio, Almería city. This attracts international and national entries for the best short film competition “Almería en Corto”. A jury awards prizes coming down from 6,300 Euros and there is an “audience selected” prize as well. The main films are shown from 8pm, but at the time of going to press the full programme was not available. Sueno…¡El Circo! is a family musical performed by sections of the OCAL City of Almería Orchestra at Teatro Apolo, Almería city, on Sunday, November 11th at 12 noon. Tickets are 10 Euros & 5 Euros for children under the age of 12.

is a very famous ballet company and 45 artistes are involved in the performance. A Flamenco concert featuring the flamenco dancers Alejandra Gudí & Eduardo Leal who both come from Almería, is performed on December 19th at 9pm at the Maestro Padilla Auditorio, Almería city. Tickets are 15 & 18 Euros. Rock En Familia is a tribute concert to AC/DC intended to be for all the family on Sunday, November 25th at 12 noon, Teatro Cervantes, Almería city. Tickets are 12 Euros.

Tickets for concerts in Almería available from the ticket office in the Teatro Apolo, 25 Rambla Obispo Orberá, Almería , tel: 950 230 922. Mon- Fri, 10.30am-1.30pm & 6-8pm, or Sat, 11am-1pm. Tickets can be purchased from 2hrs before performances at the venue or from www.ticketmaster.es or call Ticketmaster: 902 1500 25. Main branches of ‘CaixaBank’ have machines which issue tickets; including Vera near the church square.

Carlos Núñez performs a concert on December 8th at 9.30pm, Teatro Cervantes, Almería city. This well-known musician from Galicia plays an assortment of wind instruments including Galician bagpipes, Galician and Irish flute, and Ocarina. Tickets are 18 Euros in advance or 20 Euros at the door.

Águilas Auditorio

The Russian National Ballet Company performs Tchaikovsky’s Nut Cracker ballet choreographed by Marius Petipa on December 2nd at 8pm at the Maestro Padilla Auditorio, Almería city. Tickets are 23 & 25 Euros.

Promusica 2018/2019 season classical music concerts with the Region of Murcia Symphony Orchestra, Águilas Auditorio. November 16th: The orchestra and piano soloist perform Franz Liszt’s Serenade for solo piano, Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a theme by Paganini opus 43, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony number 3 in D major opus 29. The conductor is Salvador Brotons with piano soloist Vivian Cheng.

The Russian Imperial Dance & Ballet Company per forms Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake on December 11th at 9pm at the Maestro Padilla Auditorio, Almería city. Tickets are 25 & 30 Euros. This

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What’s On December 14th: The orchestra and piano soloist perform Ravel’s Bolero, Ravel’s piano concerto for the left hand in D major opus 22, and Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet suite opus 64. The conductor is Virginia Martínez and the piano soloist is James Guam. January 2nd: The orchestra performs varied compositions for the New Year, conducted by Virginia Martínez. All concerts start at 8.30pm this season and tickets are 10 Euros from Oficina Promúsica, C/ Castelar, 2 2º. Tel.: 626 476 389 or Victoria Travel, C/ Isabel La Católica, 1 Tel.: 968 414 752 Aguilas Tickets from Victoria Travel 968 410 828 & www.bac antix.com; Museo Arqueológico; www.auditorio-aguilas.org; or from two hours before performances at box office.

by Marius Petipa on November 9th at 9pm at the Teatro Villa, HuércalOvera. Tickets are 20 & 25 Euros. Tickets for events in Huércal-Overa from www.entradasho.es or Teatro Villa ticket office, open Monday to Friday from 10.30am-1.30pm & 5pm-8pm or 1hr before a performance.

Roquetas de Mar The History of Rock from Elvis to AC/DC comes to Roquetas de Mar Auditorio on November 17th at 9.30pm. The performance takes 3hrs and tickets are 18, 20, 24 & 30 Euros.

El Mejor Música de Cine (The best film music) is performed by the famous FSO Film Symphony Orchestra on February 26th and March 30th 2019 at Roquetas de Mar Auditorio with both concerts taking place at 9.30pm. The film music per formed has been composed by John Williams who has won 5 Oscar awards and 59 nominations. This concert is part of a world tour that has been a sellout on numerous occasions and tickets are 30, 35, & 40 Euros

Huercal-Overa The Russian National Ballet Company performs Tchaikovsky’s Nut Cracker ballet choreographed

La Bella y la Bestia, El Musical, is a musical intended for families based on the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ story. It comes to Roquetas de Mar Auditorio on Sunday, November 25th at 6pm. The large cast includes 12 main actors and solo singers. Tickets are 18 & 20 Euros. Sara Baras and her flamenco dance company per form “Sombras” on December 1st at 9.30pm, Teatro Auditorio, Roquetas de Mar. Tickets are 25, 35, & 40 Euros, and her concerts are normally sold out well before the event date.

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Roquetas de Mar Auditorio tickets are on sale at www.teatro auditorioroquetas.org or their ticket office, open Tuesdays to Fridays from 11am-1pm & 6pm-8pm.

Trips by Carlos November 9th, trip to Auditorio Maestro Padilla, Almería city, to see Mozart’s opera ‘La Flauta Mágica’ (The magic flute) performed by the cast, choir, and orchestra of the company Lírica Opera 2001 with a cast of 90. Ticket & coach 55 Euros. November 28th-30th. Trip to Madrid to see El Rey León / The Lion King with 3 days 2 nights in a 4*hotel with b & b. Transport and ticket, 295 Euros.

What’s On January 2nd. Trip to Torrevieja to see the famous Russian Ice Ballet Company performing ‘Beauty & the Beast’ on ice. Price including coach, ticket, 1 night in hotel with breakfast, 88 Euros. For info & booking call Carlos on 610 681 068 or 950 525 761.

Miscellaneous TA Race and Auction Evening in aid of BBC'S Children In Need is being held on Friday, 16th November at Bar La Union in La Alfoquia. The night will commence at 6pm and the cost of 12 euros will include a fully cooked buffet. 6 euros of every ticket sold will go to this wonderful cause, Children In Need, who are sending all the necessary promotional literature to ensure that the maximum coverage of the event is made. Companies are being asked to sponsor the individual races, 8 in all, at a cost of 50 euros, and people can name the horses taking part at a cost of 10 euros. All these funds will go directly to the Children In Need Fund. The Auction will consist of items donated by people who have valuable items for which they no longer have use. So far, a brand new pressure cooker value 65 euros, a brand new Karcher steam cleaner value 120 euros and an electric fruit juicer valued at 35 euros have been donated, but obviously many more are needed Individual donations can also be made with receipts being given. It is hoped the evening will raise in excess of 2000 euros, but this figure can only be achieved by the help of people of the area.

Shoestring Productions returns with the third sequel written by local James Dale-Grey...creator, writer and director of Hotel La Resistance. The Return of Hotel La Resistance now delivers... THE GHOSTS OF HOTEL LA RESISTANCE. Come and join the silliness, fun and laughter on 6, 7, 8 or 9 December at MontMartre Bar/Restaurant in Mojacar. Tickets cost 8 euros and can be purchased from PAWSPATAS Fundraising Outlets in

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Mojacar or Las Buganvillas or Connextions in Turre. Proceeds will be donated to the PAWS-PATAS shelter. Complete Beginners Flamenco dance classes every Friday at 5pm at The Roof Garden, Parque Comercial. No specialist shoes or equipment required, friendly, fast paced hour long class. More information email info@lagitanainglesa.com

Whatâ€™s On Dames in Turre November meeting will be held on Monday 26th at The Hostal Rural, Turre, commencing at 11am prompt. We are delighted to invite as our speaker Kev Moore, a very talented musician who will be talking about "His Love of Reggae Music". Do come along, guests are welcome, as this will be our last meeting of the year. On Tuesday, 13th November we have our shopping trip to Murcia at 15 euros per person. To book a seat please contact Soo Wallace at sillyboo59@yahoo.co.uk Christmas is fast approaching so Dames in Turre are on the ball preparing for their biggest fund raising event of the year, their Christmas Market, which will be held on Saturday, 8th December from 10 am to 1 pm in the main square in Turre. Turre Dames will have the following stalls, bumper Christmas raffle, delicious mulled wine with mince pies and sausage rolls, try your luck on the tombola with lots of prizes, always a bargain on the bric-a- brac, plus many beautiful items on the gift stall. Dames will be supported by many outside stalls with gifts and goodies suitable for everyone. Do come along and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere, sing along to the Christmas music and most importantly, spend lots of money Christmas shopping. All monies raised will be donated to local charities. If you would like to run your own stall or even donate items please contact Soo Wallace by e-mail at sillyboo59@yahoo.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you all on the day.

PAWS / PATAS. The next Beachcomber Book Sale will be on Tuesday, 8th January, 10.30am 1pm. Any donation of books or DVDs on the morning of the sale would be appreciated. All proceeds to cat neutering.

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Send details of your events to almeriafocus@gmail.com or call 670 84 92 65

What’s On Market Days Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday:

Huércal-Overa, Antas, Berja Albox, Los Gallardos, Cuevas del Almanzora Mojácar, Bédar, Lubrin, Vélez Blanco, Palomares, Tabernas Cuevas del Almanzora, Olula del Río, Carboneras, Sorbas Garrucha, Turre, Zurgena Aguilas, Vera, Arboleas, Vélez Rubio Villaricos, Purias, San Juan de los Terreros

Rastros, Car Boot Sales, etc. Saturday: Rastro, Mojácar Playa, opp. Red Cross, 9am - 1pm Saturday: Craft Market, Sopalmo, 11am - 6pm Saturday: Los Llanos, between Arboleas & Albox Sunday morning: Los Gallardos Campsite Sunday morning: Multiple Use Centre (Artisan Centre), Mojácar Village 2nd Sunday of the month: Bédar, from 9am Last Sunday of the month: Velez Rubio on Industrial estate

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Activities - Clubs - Associations Clubs, Societies & Activities

The Royal British Legion, Mojácar Branch, The Artisan Centre, 1st and Almanzora Group of Friends 3rd Thurs. of each month, 11:15am. All Library and Information Centre welcome inc. non-services personnel. Mon - Fri and first Saturday of month For enquiries & Welfare call 950 066053 10am-1pm, Plaza San Antonia, Barrio http://branches.britishlegion.org.uk/ Alto, Albox. Extensive English Library, branches/mojacar/news-events/ DVDs and talking books, monthly magazine, monthly quiz, trips. The Royal British Legion - Albox Tel: 634 343 147 or Facebook: Everyone welcome. Monthly meeting 3rd Thursday of every month, La Parrilla, Almanzora Group of Friends. Albox, 11am. Coffee morning 1st Almería Link Friendship Group Thursday of every month, Oasis Cafe Meetings Wednesdays, 8pm, at the Trufi Bar, 11.30am. For info contact chairman Bar, Mojácar. For information contact Ken Matthews, email ken.matthews10 Bob (Chairman) on 950472551 or @gmail.com. For support, Filip Ostrowski Cynthia (Secretary) on 950472699. on 950066037. http://counties.british Don't be lonely, come and join us. l e g i o n . o r g . u k / b r a n c h e s / a l b o x Living Alone in Spain? The Royal British Legion - Zurgena We are a 60+ group of friends who & District Branch meet for lunch every Wednesday in the Bar Latinos, C/ Granada, La Alfoquia, Mojácar area. Tel: 674 823 697 every first Thursday of the month at 11a.m. Email zurgenaRBLsecretary WOW Women on Wednesday The Roof Garden, Mojácar Playa, from @yahoo.co.uk. See www.britishlegion. 1.30pm. Get together, buy, sell, swap, org.uk/branches/zurgena meet new people. Psychic Development Circle Various classes at different times. Dames in Huércal Overa 3rd Wed. of the month, 10.30am, Hostal Everyone welcome. Tel: Barbara 637 Rural Los Sabores de Miguel. All welcome. 469 937 barbaramoonlight@gmail.com Tel. Carolyn 637 798 494 AUAN - Abusos Urbanisticos Almanzora No. Dames in Spain (Mojácar) Talks, trips, support for local charities. Association campaigning for the 3rd Mon. of the month, 11.00am legalisation of homes in the Almanzora Sensations Restaurant, Mojácar Playa. Valley built without proper authority. Chairperson Carol Threlfall, 671 947 Meeings on 3rd Sat. of every other 035. Secretary Jenny Trask, 628 263 month, 11am, La Parrilla, Albox. Tel: 617 315. See fb Dames in Spain. Guests 118 209 www.almanzora-au.org welcome. The Divine Life Society, Almeria Branch Dames in Turre 11am, last Mon in the month, Hostal Lotus Yoga Centre, Mojácar. Evening Rural, Turre. Talks, trips, support for of Meditation and a talk, 1st Fri of the local charities. Guests welcome. Tel: month, 7.30pm. Spiritual Cinema, 3rd Membership Secretary Eileen McGill 652 Fri of the month, 7.30pm. Meditation 208 072 or President Soo Wallace Tel:- and Yoga classes. Tel Sharon 950 469122 or 672 061 048 or omsharon50 667 362 713 @gmail.com Mojácar Community Library Multi-Use centre. Mon, Wed and Fri, Vera & District Lions Club. 5.00pm on the first Wednesday of the 11am - 1pm . month at El Gnomo Feliz restaurant, Mojácar Walking Group Vera. Telephone Sandie Tinkham on 950 Walks of different levels. Tues & Thurs. 439324 or Pam Mattioli on 950069249 w w w. m o j a c a r wa l k i n g g ro u p . c o m for more information. Mojácar Bridge Club Mon and Thurs, 7pm. Marina Playa Hotel. Contact Les 950 437 100 / 634 219 174 Facebook: Mojácar Bridge Club

Flamenco Forum for English Speakers on Facebook. Information and events. Tel: 687 480 694

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Vera Photo Club First Sunday of month, Bar La Pará, Turre (opposite the Vet), 10am 12.30pm. Presentations by invited speakers, field trips, instruction, studio photography, monthly assignments and exhibitions. All levels welcome. Phone Sarah 670003717 or Claus 628585538. Mojacar Photo Group Contact Lyle Mallen: 620 786 914 Ancestry Club for Beginners & Intermediate Piedra Amarilla. Wednesdays, 2pm-4pm. 5 euros per week. Tel. 634 309 590 Betty's Garden Club 11.30 for 12 noon, 2nd Monday of the month at Miraflores Restaurant, Camping Los Gallardos except in July & August. All welcome. Tel: 603 587 805 Mojacar Computer & Electronics Club Saturdays, Beachcomber, Mojácar. 10 – 12 noon, Laptops. 12 noon – 1pm, smart phones, tablets, cameras, etc Freemasons in the Province of Almeria Craft & Chapter. 661 026 912 or 670 27 27 37 Freemasons – The Side Degrees Mark, RAM, RSM, OSM & Allied. 694 44 43 61 Cabrera Music Club For info call Richard: 666 274 861 cabreramusicclub@albox-online.net Albox Computer Club Hotel La Parrilla, Albox. Fri, 10am. All levels of experience are welcomed. www.alboxcc.com Indalo Hash House Harriers Meet 2nd and 4th Sunday, 11am, various l o c a t i o n s . w w w. i n d a l o h 3 . c o m Mojácar Angling Club Tel. John (Beachcomber): 950 473 099 Traditional Japanese Reiki and Gendai Reiki Ho Classes, workshops, and Reiki shares in Mojacar. Tel: 634 347 930, website: www.gendaireikispain.com Send details of your club, society or activity to almeriafocus@gmail.com Tel: 670 849 265

Activities - Clubs - Associations Clubs, Societies & Activities continued Amigos de los Coches Clasicos Local multi-national group of classic car enthusiasts. Meetings the first Thursday of the month, 3pm, Hotel Rural Miguel Rosi, junction 559 E15/A7. www.a-c-c.es, email: info@a-c-c.es, tel. David 950 412 165 Cabrera Slot Car Club Thursdays, 4.30-6pm. Richard 950 970 869. Call to check if on first. Model Aero Flying Club, Cortijo Grande Sun. & Wed., 10.30am. Contact Jeff on 950 469304 or Colin on 666 982186 Aeroclub ULM Günter (Vera) Tel: 607 316 553 Costa Levante Bird Group Meets first Thursday of each month. For more information phone Rod 634362353 Pita Escuela Agave School of Río Aguas. A multicultural, environmental and musical project, specialized on the integral usage of the agave plant and the processing of its wood.Tel 630 66 18 65 (Timbe) pitaescuela@hotmail.com Sunseed A hands-on practical centre for lowimpact living and environmental education in Los Molinos del Rio Aguas near Sorbas. Free tours at 4pm. www.sunseed.org.uk Tel: 950 525 770

Religious Groups & Churches Church of England Costa Calida and Costa Almeria Mojacar: Eucharist, Sunday, 11am, at the church of San Pascual, Agua de Enmedio. Albox: Eucharist, 2nd & last Thurs in month, 11am. Evensong, second Sun in month, 6pm. Comunity Hall Aljambra. Llanos del Peral, nr El Cucador: Eucharist or morning worship, Sundays, 11am.at Village Church and Community Hall. Roquetas: No services because no venue. Details: Church Wardens, Pam Carter, 667947573 & Janet Smith, 671451838 www.mojacarchurch.org

Kingdom Hall, Jehovah's Witnesses Ostomist Support For Expats Tues 7:30pm & Sun 10.00am. Poligono Call Dee 950 064 322 in confidence. Aljoroque - C/El Cajete 6, Antas. Contact: 652 293 269 A.A. Alcoholics Anonymous Living Water Church Mojacar Playa Mojacar area Meetings –Tuesday, 6pm, Opposite Red Cross Centre and Salas Artisan Centre, Mojacar Fuente - Friday Farmacia. Sunday Service 11am. Bible & Wednesday, 6pm, Living Water Church, study Tuesday 11am. Cafe Church Mojácar Playa (opposite Red Cross Thursday 11am to 1pm. For further info building). Tel: 634 349 535 or 634 319 contact Pastors Dave 697 522 521 or 746 or email mike@aaspain.org John 634 254 781. See FaceBook or visit When the Artisan Centre is closed, the www.livingwaterchurchmojacar.com Tuesday meeting will be at the Living Water Church. The Evangelical Church, Turre Avda de Almeria on the corner of Age Support Almanzora C/Alberquillica . Sunday 10.30am. Shop and welfare office near Peugeot Tuesday 3pm Bible Studying. Midweek garage, Albox. Helpline 634 316 573 prayer meeting. Tel. 950 617549 or 950 47 2 3 4 9 . w w w . t u r r e c h u r c h . c o m Universal Wonderful Street Aguaviva Evangelical Church Academy Near the health Centre, opposite Bici- NGO that supports street children in Box, Albox. Tel: Rod Southwood, 687 Accra (Ghana). Registered charity. 560 544 www.universalwonderfulstreetacadem y.org. Beatriz: 617 182 154 Puerto Lumbreras Christian Fellowship FACE Every 1st and 3rd Sunday each month (Fundraising in Arboleas, Caring for at 11.00 am. Phone for exact location E ve r yo n e ) . Re g i s te r e d c h a r i t y. (now at their house) Tel 619453283 or face.charity@hotmail.com www.face 968 018 228 Paul and Sandra -charity.com New Life Church, Huercal-Overa The Helping Hands We are a Jesus centred church family Support for Animals and People alike. learning to love one another. Sunday Registered charity. Tel: 968 48 29 48 service at 11 am, www.newlifechurch.eu Harmony Community Support (see map) tel. 685 628 184 Providing assistance to those in need. Tel. 634 339 192 Mon - Fri, 11:00 - 14:00 help@harmonycharity Support Groups &

Charities Parkinson's Disease Support Contact Joyce Boxall (Santa Maria de Nieva, Huércal-Overa), tel 677 688037 MACS Cancer Support Group General Enquiries call 634 328 334 10am to 4pm. 24/7 Careline: 634 656 555. Fully Spanish registered charity. Shops in Mojácar, Turre, Albox and Huercal-Overa open Mon-Fri, 10-2pm www.macscancersupport.com Email: macscancersuppor t@live.co.uk Stepping Stones Carers Support Group Turre Evangelical Hall, Thurs, 11am-2pm. Tel 950 472822 or 677 683385 www.steppingstonescarersgroup.wee bly.com

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Send details of your group to almeriafocus@gmail.com Tel: 670 849 265

Activities - Clubs - Associations Dance Line Dancing Hotel el Puntazo, Mojacar. Fridays, 7.–10pm. Beginners welcome. Contact: Glynis 648217503 or Mary Beth 661671526 or strictlylinedancing mojacar@gmail.com Eleanor & Gilly's Line Dance Class Chapman’s Bar, Albox, 2-30pm- 4-30pm, Mondays. All levels welcome. Eleanor Tolman 950 439 003. Step2It - Line Dancing Albox. Weds: 6.45 p.m - 7.30 p.m, First Steps/Introduction. 7.30 p.m -10.30, Beginners / Improvers /Intermediate. Contact: Carrie Ann 627279584 www.carrieanngreen.com Line Dancing Beachcomber Restaurant, Mojácar. Beginners/Improvers. Mondays, 4pm. Contact John 666 200 579 Line Dancing La Vida, Cucador. Tuesday 5pm Almeria Line Dancers Julie - 634304625 / 950110433 Pro Danza Nicky Mainstone Royal Academy Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Dance fit fusion. Children & Adults. Mojacar & Los Gallardos. T. 667479903 Ceroc Dancing Artisan Centre, Mojacar, Tues 8.15pm Beginners/Improvers/Advanced. All welcome. Contact Tracey 687251799 Belly Dancing Mojácar, Garrucha & Huércal-Overa. Contact Fatima: 610 472 596 Bellydance Classes Mojácar, Turre, Palomares. Call 639 724 521 Oriental and Middle Eastern Folklore dancing classes Tues at Vera, Wed at Turre. Shirin, 607805367, gytanshark@yahoo.es Dance Classes with Hollie Newell Ballet, tap, contemporary, modern, jazz, lyrical, zumba and more. Based in Turre. Tel: 634 317 391 Performing Arts Centre DanZaVera 54 Verasol, Vera. Royal Academy Ballet, Imperial Society Modern, Tap and Jazz. Also Hip-Hop, Oriental Dance, Spanish Classical. Tel Anita: 670 715 787

Complete Beginners Flamenco classes, Fridays, 5pm, The Roof Garden, Parque Comercial, Mojácar. No specialist shoes or equipment required, friendly hour long class. Email info@lagitanainglesa.com

Arts & Crafts Sewing Group, Mojacar Meet at Dolce Vita for sewing, knitting etc. Weds 10.30 - 12.30. Tel: Brenda 634 34 34 92 or Sylvia 628 006 197. Ladies Sewing Circle Evangelical Church, Turre, Wednesday 10.30 – 12.30 Tel: 667 702 774 Glass Bead Making La Cueva del Pájaro, Carboneras. Call 950 130 627 Ladies Pottery Painting Parties Albox - every 2nd Thursday, 6 - 9pm. SimplyArt 662 443 095 Art Classes All levels. Thurs, 11-1pm, Miraflores Campsite. Tel: 653 714 767 Girasol, Albox Art & painting. Tues, 10-1pm. Mosaic classes. Thurs 3-5.Tel 639 089 170 Sophia Wellness Centre, Arboleas Art classes. Tel. 950 449 451.

Yoga Lotus Yoga Centre, Mojácar Mondays. Contact Sharon - 672 061 048 or omsharon50@gmail.com L.O.T.U.S Integral Yoga Centre Mojácar. Yoga all levels/gentle yoga. Weds, Fri, Sun. Tel. Parvathi: 636063560 Sansonora, Mojacar Wednesday, 2.30pm. All levels, visitors welcome. Sharon 672061048 Sol Yoga Centre, Arboleas Tel: 686 400331 Girasol, Albox Call 639 089 170 Cortijo El Saltador Lucainena de las Torres. Mon, 5:30pm. Tel: Brahmani on 600 34 91 51 Yoga with Ashlí Turre, Vera & private. 643102335 Yoga Therapy with Portia Oliver. Tel: 681301474 www.portiaoliver.es

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Music & Drama Groups Indalo Players Well established drama group always looking for new members to act or help back stage. Tel. Bill White on 671 81 08 19 or email williamwhite9552@aol.com Independent Theatre Group Always looking for new people, novices & full blown Thesbians. Call Ian Jones on 950 436 581 or 666 375 688 or email independenttheatre@hotmail.com The Luvvies New members always welcome for acting or work behind the scenes etc. Te l . 6 34 34 6 3 0 9 o r e - m a i l theluvvies@hotmail.com Jacqueline Welby Productions New members always needed to act or work back stage or with any other activities. Tel. Jacqueline Morris Welby 634 313 531 Almeria Strings Folk Club Third Thursday of the month, 8pm, Turre. Free admission. For location and other events, see www.almeriastrings .org or call 634 347 930 The Rose Singers Small ladies choir singing a variety of musical genres in aid of local charities. 4-5 performances a year. Rehearsals Friday mornings, Los Gallardos. New singers always welcome. Call Alison on 667 408 941 or see us on Facebook. The Incognito Singers A mixed voice group performing a varied repertoire of songs to a high standard. Rehearsals Wednesday evening, Arboleas. See Facebook, w w w. t h e i n c o g n i t o s i n g e r s . c o m , theincognitosing er s@gmail.com Sing Sing Sing A mixed informal singing group, singing all types of music, for the fun of it, and to be able to perform a few charity events. Everyone welcome, Rehearsal Tuesday 6pm Villaricos Social Centre. For info. ring Janet on 617856680. Cariatiz Community Orchestra All welcome, any age, any level, only requirement is to read music. Rehearsals Sundays 6-7pm, Cariatiz (between Los Gallardos and Sorbas). Contact Emma, emma.v.randle@gmail.com 654 164 293

Activities - Clubs - Associations Sports Almería Lawn Bowling Club Contact Shirley: 679 970 399 Bowling Club de Zurgena Friendly, social and competitive bowling, all levels and standards. Contact Keith: 634 335 988 or zurgenabc@gmail.com. www.zurgenabc.com Cabrera Lawn Bowling Club Contact Ian Jackson: 634 340 361 or iandjjackson2@gmail.com. Website www.cabreralbc.com Indalo Lawn Bowling Club Contact Toni: 950 468 165 or 647 703 393 wattsmyt@gmail.com Mojacar Bowls Club Behind Marina Mar Hotel. Everybody welcome - Tues, Thurs and Sat starting with coffee at 9:30. Contact Verna 610 838 644.

Club de Tenis y Padel Indalo Vera. Tel: 608 250 607 - 950 59 28 77 www.tenisypadelindalo.com Tennis & Padel Tennis Sierra Club Desert Springs. Tel: 687599115

Girasol, Albox Pilates, children’s karate & gymastics, advanced gymnastics, Tai-chi. Tel 639 089 170

Tennis Coach Diego Rodriguez Tel: 689 688 226

Body Control Pilates Classes or private. Sharon 638 487 314

Padel tennis lessons At home. Tel: Ulises Gutiérrez, 606 902 691

Aerobics or Pilates Campo de Futbol, Turre. Contact Vicki 650 764 623 or vicki.lynch@live.co.uk

Albox Sub-Aqua Club Wed, 8pm, Travellers Inn (7Km from Albox on Taberno Road). Mojácar Sailing Club Sunday afternoons, Playa Cantal, near Trufi Bar. All ages welcome for crewing or social membership. Contact George on 950 475 428.

PartyLevante Sailing Club Initiation for children from 7 yrs in small groups. Email info@partylevante.com Badgers Golf Society or call 680942141 www.partylevante Mojacar, play Wednesday and Saturday. .com Everyone always welcome. Contact Duncan Smart on 634 331 059 or Santa Irene Sailing Club badgersmojacar@gmail.com Meets Sundays at 10:30 at the boat park Boxers Golf Society Albox All welcome to join us as members or guests. Call in at the Why Not bar in Albox on Saturday mornings or email peterstooks@avired.com Forum Golf Society Plays friendly events at local courses twice a month. Richard Price. Telephone 850993073 or rfp53@yahoo.co.uk. www.forumgolfsociety.webs.com

Fitness & Martial Arts

Slimming Groups Casa Pepa, Turre, Weds 10 am, Sophia Wellness Centre Arboleas, Thurs 12.30pm, Contact Vicki 650 764 623 or vicki.lynch@live.co.uk Slimming & Fitness with Pam Various locations. Tel: 639 465 631 pamsslimming@gmail.com Martial Arts Academy Seidokan Scientific Karate & Taiji-Qigong, Vera. Call John Watson 950 453 681

Performing Arts Centre DanZaVera Almeria. 54 Verasol, Vera. Martial Arts, Karate, Tai ji qigong, ancient weapons including Sword, Self Defence, Tactical of the New Marina, Garrucha, with a pre- Gymnastics, Yoga and ageless mobility. sail coffee at café La Oficina virtually Tel Anita: 670 715 787 opposite at 11:00. Contact Ian via info@ Mojácar Taekwondo santaireneclubdevela.com or call 671 5 years to adults. Various classes & times. 474 385. See www.santaireneclub Contact Serge 646844708. Facebook devela.com GTF Spain Garrucha Table Tennis Club Tel Barry on 677 174 430 Cazadores de Turre Cricket Club. Welcome new members of all ages and experience. Contact Sam Lewis on 663 132 487 or Derek Larkins 634 361 941

Marina Phoenix Golf Society Visitors welcome Mondays and Thursdays. Tel Don Atkins 605 051 238. Adelante Gimnasia Artìstica Email marinaphoenixgolfsociety Classes for fun gymnastics , competitive @gmail.com levels, pre school and adults. Fully Valle del Este Golf Society. qualified coach. From 2 years. Tel 622 Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays. Contact 129 702 or info@adelanteartisitca.es Alan Townsend Tel. 690 090 982 www.adelanteartistica.es Facebook Adelante Gimnasia artistica. Almería Golf League Contact Les on 950 619 273 Walking Football Club Campo de Football, Los Gallardos, 9am Albox Club de Tenis Sun & Thurs mornings, Tues afternoons. Monday for training, exercise & playing. Tel Sue: 950 064 369 www.fclosamigos.com Cabrera Tennis Club El Bandido Runners Email: cabreratennis@gmail.com Run, jog , walk a 5km route along the www.facebook.com/cabrera.tennis Paseo. Free to all. See Facebook. Contact Kevin on ironmankev08 @gmail.com

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Sophia Wellness Centre, Arboleas Gym, Toning tables, Kickboxing, Cross fit, Boot camp, Boxing, Salsacise, Zumba, Step Aerobics, Body Pump. Tel. 950 449 451. Fitness with Alison, Mojácar Full Body Workout, Pilates, AquaZumba, Zumba, Step Aerobics, Total Toning, AeroFit. Tel 666 273 168. Sansonora, Mojácar Qi Gong, Pilates, Dance. Contact Elena, 630 688 615 or elenasansonora @gmail.com Hollie Newell Zumba Almeria Turre, Los Gallardos, Arboleas and San Juan. Contact: 634 317 391 Zumba, La Vida Cucador Fridays 10am.

Your Stars This will be a good day for research and for sitting down with some good, informative reading material. Do something constructive outside. Don't evade important issues; you may find yourself backed into a corner. Overstatement will be your downfall. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday. (Mar. 21- April 20)

You might find that a colleague has been two faced. You can come up with ways of earning extra cash. Your energetic personality will make you the center of attention at social gatherings. Club memberships or donations could be expensive and prove unnecessary. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday. (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) You need to focus on yourself, not on others. This will not be the day to have minor surgery. Look out for those wanting to push you into a disagreement. Take a close look at documents be fore signing on the dotted line. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

You may want to make changes in your home environment. Try to keep to yourself; work diligently on domestic chores and responsibilities. You can make headway if you share your intentions with someone you care about. There's a good chance that they won't come back. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday. (Apr. 21- May 21)

(May 22 - June 21)

(Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) It's a good time for long awaited relationships to begin. New love connections can be made through group associations. Try to be patient with their inability to accept your new beliefs. Don't take sides if you wish to remain on good terms with both parties. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

Your philanthropic contributions will bring you praise. You can expect to feel confused about your personal prospects. You mustn't be so trusting. You can make money through real estate or by using your head when it comes to personal investments. Your luckiest events this month will (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) occur on a Monday.

Don't bother getting even; they'll make themselves look bad. You could overreact to emotional situations regarding your relationship. It's a good time for long awaited relationships to begin. Social events will lead to a strong and stable relationship. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

Don't lend or borrow. Don't get involved in joint ventures. Get involved in sports events that will benefit your physical appearance. You may blow situations out of proportion when dealing with the one you love. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

(June 22 - July 22)

(July 23 - Aug. 22)

(Dec. 22 - Jan. 20) Try to be precise in your communications. There is not much you can do to alleviate the problem, but consider putting some extra work into your house. Try not to be too harsh with loved ones; there will always be two sides to an issue. A residential move may be in order. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

(Jan. 21- Feb. 19)

Don't argue with family. You won't get the reaction you want from your mate this month. Don't overextend your self in order to add luxury items to your entertainment centre. You can accomplish a lot if you put some effort into household duties or redecorating plans. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

Work quietly on your own and you will forge ahead. Don't bang your head against a wall. Try to keep a low profile. Confusion is apparent and you'll need some sound advice if you want to do the right thing. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday. (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23)

You can make personal changes that will enhance your appearance and bring about greater social activity. Make sure that all your legal papers are in proper order. Try not to spend too much on children or entertainment. Don't force your opinions on friends or relatives unless you are prepared to lose their favour. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

(Feb. 20 - Mar. 20)

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Jokes of the Month The Fish

The Frog

A boy is selling fish on a corner. To get his customers' attention, he is yelling, "Dam fish for sale! Get your dam fish here!" A pastor hears this and asks, "Why are you calling them 'dam fish.'" The boy responds, "Because I caught these fish at the local dam." The pastor buys a couple fish, takes them home to his wife, and asks her to cook the dam fish. The wife responds surprised, "I didn't know it was acceptable for a preacher to speak that way." He explains to her why they are dam fish. Later at the dinner table, he asks his son to pass him the plate with the dam fish. He responds, "That's the spirit, Dad! Now pass me the f*cking potatoes!"

A 92 year old man is walking through a park and sees a talking frog. He picks up the frog and the frogs says, “If you kiss me, I will turn into a beautiful princess and be yours for a week.” The old man puts the frog in his pocket. The frog screams, “Hey if you kiss me, I will turn into a beautiful princess and make love to you for a whole month.” The old man looks at the frog and says, “At my age I’d rather have a talking frog. I get lonely sometimes living on my own.”

The Magician and the Parrot A magician worked on a cruise ship in the Caribbean. The audience would be different each week, so the magician did the same tricks each week. However, there was a problem; the captain's parrot saw the shows each week and began to understand how the magician did every trick. Once he understood, he started shouting out the secrets in the middle of the show, "Look, it's not the same hat." "Look, he is hiding the flowers under the table." "Hey, why are all the cards the Ace of Spades?" The magician was furious but couldn't do anything as it was the captain's parrot. One day, the ship hit a reef and started to sink and everyone was told to abandon ship. The magician found himself alone with the parrot, adrift on a piece of wood, in the middle of the ocean. They stared at each other but the magician hated the parrot and didn’t utter a single word. This went on for a day, then another, and another. Finally, after a week, the parrot said, "Okay, I give up. Where the heck is the boat?"

The Monkey A boy with a monkey on his shoulder was walking down the road when he passed a policeman who said, "Now, now, young lad, I think you had better take that monkey to the zoo." The next day, the boy was walking down the road with the monkey on his shoulder again, when he passed the same policeman. The policeman said, "Hey there, I thought I told you to take that monkey to the zoo!" The boy answered, "I did! Today I'm taking him to the cinema."

Problem Solved There are 6 women hanging onto a rope that comes down from the third floor of a building that has caught fire. The only way they can escape is to climb down the rope and hope the firemen come quickly. 5 of them are blonde, and one is a brunette. They all decide that one person should let go of the rope because if they don't, the rope will break and everyone will die. No one can decide who should go, so finally the brunette delivers a very touching speech, ending with the words, "I'll get off. Good luck!" The blondes, all moved by the brunette's speech, start clapping. Problem solved.

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...and next... Donations

The Father A blonde goes to the doctor's and find out she is pregnant with twins. She starts crying and the doctor asks her what's wrong. She replies, "I know who the dad is for one of them but I don't know who the dad is for the other one!" Opening Hours I went down the street to a 24-hour grocery store. When I got there it was shut but there was a guy inside. I knocked on the glass and he came over and unlocked the door. I said, "Hey! The sign says you're open 24 hours." He said, "Yes, but not every day!"

A local charity office realized that the organization had never received a donation from the town's most successful business owner. The person in charge of contributions called him to persuade him to contribute. "Our research shows that out of a yearly income of at least 500,000 dollars, you did not give even one dollar to charity. Wouldn't you like to give back to the community in some way?" The business owner replied, "First, did your research show that my mother is dying after a long illness, and has medical bills that are several times her annual income?" Embarrassed, the charity man mumbled, "Um, no." The business owner then says, "Or that my brother, a disabled veteran, is blind and confined to a wheelchair?" The stricken charity worker began to stammer out an apology, but was interrupted again. "Or that my sister's husband died in a traffic accident leaving her penniless with three children!" The humiliated charity organizer, completely beaten, said simply, "Iâ€™m sorry, I had no idea." On a roll, the business owner continues, "So if I don't give any money to them, why should I give any to you?"

The Panda The Religious Horse A man needed a horse, so he went to the market and got one. Before he left, the horse dealer told the man that it was a very special horse and it was very religious. He told the man that in order to make the horse go, you say, "Thank God," and for it to stop you say, "Amen." So the man left, and a few minutes later he dozed off. When he woke up the horse was racing towards the edge of a cliff. Just in time, he shouted "Amen!" and the horse stopped a few inches from the edge. "Phew," said the man, "Thank God!"

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A panda walks into a bar, sits down, and orders a sandwich. He eats, pulls out a gun, and shoots the waiter dead. As the panda stands up to go, the bartender shouts, "Hey! Where are you going? You just shot my waiter and you didn't pay for the food!" The panda yells back, "Hey man, I'm a panda. Look it up!" The bartender opens his dictionary to panda, "A tree climbing mammal of Asian origin, characterized by distinct black and white colouring. Eats shoots and leaves."

Coffee Break

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