Baywatch June July 2011 by Baywatch Group

Letter from the Editor Hi everyone and welcome to our first Summer edition of the year- yippee! Summer in Andalucia is clearly one of the best things about living here, but it’s not just for the days on the beach. It’s for relaxing at a pavement café with a bowl of gazpacho, or a tomato salad drizzled with olive oil. It’s for fish barbeques and the sound of crickets and paseos until late . It’s for sipping mojitos, tinto de veranos or sangria on the terrace, the outdoor sports, and of course…it’s for the fiestas! Last issue’s feature on ferias in our region proved very popular, so we will continue with these full listings in the next two magazines- giving you a complete What’s On guide from June to September.

This issue also features more ideas for your home from Taylor Rose, takes a look at the Wild-West town of El Rocio in the nearby Coto de Doñana national park, gives you information about whale watching in Tarifa, walking ideas, another impressive hotel getaway, plus reviews of the SOS festival in Murcia and the Cirque de Soleil coming to Seville soon- plus much more. Enjoy! Ps: While we’re on the theme of lists, what are your favourite things about life in Andalucia? Why not write in and tell us? We love to hear from you!

Sophie

CONTENTS

4 Culture: The new show from Cirque de Soleil

5 Estrella Levante SOS 4.8 Festival Review, Murcia

8 Don’t Move - Improve Part 2. The second installment fromTaylor Rose on how to spruce up your home 10 Malaga province: A walk from Alpandeire Juzcar Baywatch is a free magazine published bi-monthly by The Baywatch Group

Advertising & Sales Please call 856 101 803/697 552 936 Email:sales@baywatchonline.org Editor Sophie McAdam

Email: editor@baywatchonline.org

Design & Layout Email: design@baywatchonline.org Registered address: The Post House Buzon 72 CC Novogallo, Local No.50 Chiclana de la Frontera 11130 Cadiz, Spain Deposito Legal CA-552/06 Copyright The Baywatch Group All Rights Reserved Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part without the prior permission of the publisher is stricly prohibited The publishers reserve the right to amend any submissions. The views expressed by the contributors & advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the content and adverts within the magazine, the publishers cannot accept any liability

12 Property section with Cadiz Casa

14 The UK's finest musicians from the London Philharmonic arrive in Trujillo this July. 16 Food & Wine: A look at local restaurants

22 What’s On Diary for Andalucia during June & July 24 Bikini Body Tips and Fitness Advice

27 Protecting and enjoying marine animals in Tarifa with FIRMM

32 What’s On in and around Cadiz region and Community News

33 Hotel Getaways: Hotel Sindhura, Patria near Vejer de la Frontera

35 Focus on: El Rocío in the Coto de Doñana Park 36 Business Directory: Your guide to local business and services BO O ST YOUR BUSI N E S S WITH BAYWATCH

For all advertising enquiries call Sales on 856 101 803 or 697 552 936 EMail: sales@baywatchonline.org

Culture

Cirque de Soleil CORTEO by Celis

A circus with a difference!

I’ve just watched the new Cirque du Soleil show in Madrid and have to say it’s one of the best theatre performances I have ever seen in my life. The new work from these other-worldly artists mixes music, live theatre and circus in a new breathtaking show called Corteo. It is the story of a clown who dies and steps into another world, and the show focuses on these ethereal dreams with jumping, spinning, laughter, flying angels and many more magical and fantastic visual treats that transport the voyeur into a wonderland that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. In addition to Alicante and Barcelona, the Cirque du Soleil will play in Seville from September 8th until October 16th, under the grand Chapiteau at Bajo el Carpa Blanca, Charco de la Pava.

If you book in advance you can get an early bird discount; prices starting at just 20 euros and with special offers for children and seniors. The show is nothing short of magnificent and I would highly recommend it- in fact, nobody living in Andalucia should miss this opportunity! Its one of the best theatre experiences i’ve had and the prices are affordable for all. You can find out more details and book at:

http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/es -es/shows/corteo/default.aspx

Culture

Estrella Levante SOS 4.8 Festival Review, Murcia 6-8 May

When some friends suggested we check out a Spanish festival this year it seemed like a great plan, and after some scouting around I discovered what looked like the cream of the crop: SOS 4.8, held in the south-eastern city of Murcia every May bank holiday weekend.

‘Music, Art and Voices’ is the SOS 4.8 slogan, and who could want more than an urban festival with a good mix of music from big-name bands like MGMT, Editors, Suede plus contemporary exhibitions, interactive workshops and conferences on music culture and history? It sounded like a perfect blend of old fashioned fun and haute culture, but unfortunately my excitement proved to be short-lived.

SOS 4.8 was my first city-centre (not to mention continental) festival, and I was unsure of what to expect. I arrived with friends by car and was surprised to find there was no official parking set aside for festival goers: strange, I thought, for a festival of 80k capacity now in its fourth year. After a good half-hour of driving around in circles, we found a spot on a rough-looking estate five minutes walk from the main event located on the outskirts of the inner-city.

Whilst camping is available at Murcia’s football stadium for an additional cost (95 euros compared to 45 for a two-day pass), the idea of queuing for shuttle buses and paying extra for the privilege of being miles away from the music seemed a little pointless. Most people opted for sleeping in the car, whilst others erected pop-up tents on any small piece of grass available within walking distance of the festival.

Like all commercial festivals (this one sponsored by Spanish lager Estrella Levante, Jagermeister and Ron Barcelo rum), drinkseven sealed bottles of water were not permitted inside the ground and prices inside the venue were relatively high, a small beer costing the equivalent of £2.50.

The festival ground itself is small, with just two big stages, an indoor auditorium and the smaller Ron Barcelo ‘SOS Club’ stage. Other performances, as part of the ‘SOS OFF’ Festival, were scattered around the city centre, namely four different nightclubs and Murcia’s central plaza, a 15 minute drive from the main ground.

SOS 4.8 is billed as ’48 hours of non-stop music’, but unless you have superhuman powers and can be in several places at once, it’s something of a ridiculous claim. The ground didn’t open until 12 noon, and even then we had very little choice of how to entertain ourselves: acts on the two main stages didn’t kick off until the early evening, so until then there are only three options: take a seat in the auditorium for a lecture, wander around the art gallery installations, or head for the Ron Barcelo DJ stage (the only place inside the main event where dancing is an option before 7pm).

The art gallery was an interesting addition to the festival. One interactive installation in particular, Cave’s fan, was an impressive creation: a chill-out room with red lighting, mattresses and Nick Cave music on a loop, accompanied by a hypnotic video projection and walls painted black and white with popart images of the iconic singer. Sunday at SOS 4.8 is a chilled-out affair: with the main festival ground closed we headed for the beautiful city centre of Murcia

and watched a couple of Spanish bands perform in the sunny Plaza de Flores, a pretty square ringed by pavement bars and cafes, although the suffocating crowd, intense heat and huge queues to buy a drink made it almost impossible to enjoy the experience. My tip? Come prepared!

SOS 4.8 claims to be the most sustainable festival in Europe, but I saw very little evidence of this apart from a solar powered phone charger. Not one recycling bin was available and the streets outside the ground were literally covered in glass and plastic bottles, food wrappings and cups: ironically, it was quite possibly the least sustainable event I’ve ever attended.

A festival combining culture with music is an ambitious idea, but I’m not sure it works in practice. On-site camping and parking facilities, a better attitude from the crowd and no prohibitions on bottled water (at the very least) inside the event would have made it a weekend to remember- if I go again next year I’ll be booking a nearby hotel!

Don’t Move - Improve Part 2 Taylor Rose Some ‘keep it simple’ rules to decorating – Less is More!

1 Work with what you have

Fire places, alcoves, large windows are ready made focal points so highlight them with bold colour or wall paper – a good idea for an alcove is a mirror as it will create an illusion of space. Mirrors play an important part in interior decoration; if they are carefully placed, a small room can be made to look larger and a dark room appear lighter. In every home there is a place where a mirror can be used to great effect – in an alcove behind display shelving, in a recess or covering a door. But remember a mirrored surface will reflect everything which stands in front of it: so avoid overdoing it by placing mirrors on an adjacent or facing wall since the effect might be confusing and not what you expected. 2 Use contrast

When using bold colours, stick to one focal point, don’t over use the colour otherwise it all will be fighting for attention! 3 Clear the decks

When you display an exquisite vase or sculpture or favourtite piece – let it stand alone – keep it simple!

4 Pictures

Remember when hanging pictures, never put them up too high – you are meant to look at them, not strain your neck trying to see them. If you have lots of small pictures, even different shapes, hang them together to create a group. This will make a lot more impact. Check the look first on the floor – this will save a lot of holes in the wall trying to get it right! 5 Need Inspiration? But have to be cash clever? How about revamping some of your tired furniture? Brighten up your room by repainting or colour varnishing to give you an updated look.

If you can’t face doing the job yourself, call Anne and Andy at El Muebles Rustico – they will be able to give you the best advice and even carry out the work for you at very reasonable rates.

They will collect large pieces from your home and give you a price.

Andy does all the work himself so he can match almost any colour. And for DIY addicts, they also have a wonderful collection of furniture that you can varnish or paint yourself.

Why not go along to their fabulous showroom on the industrial estate on the N340 past El Colorado and just the other side of Casa de Postas?

Turn right at the traffic island towards Conil and then immediately on to the estate and look out for the showroom sign.

For more information Call Anne or Andy on 956 45 24 02

Malaga province: A walk from Alpandeire - Juzcar A beautiful ramble between two stunning pueblos blancos south of Ronda in the green-forested mountains of the Genal Valley, Malaga province. Directions are given from the main plaza in Alpandeire, 17km south of Ronda, and the walk is circular. Time- between 4 - 6hours. Effort- Moderate. Distance- 13.8 K. Water points only at the Fuente (6140m.) and Juzcar.

This walk takes you above the village of Alpandeire and under the limestone crags, coming down into Juzcar village and returning to Alpandeire. Please remember to close all gates behind you!

From the plaza, take a right down a narrow street leading to the birthplace of Capuchin monk Fray Leopoldo (signposted). Pass the house and continue along this street (Calle Doctor Duarte), heading towards the church you can see at the top of the village. Turn left into Calle Posito. Continue past the Sala de exposicion, fork right up to the shrine to Fray Leopoldo on your left, then keep following this road down and out of the of the village to the dirt track, turn left around the last building and then down and bear right heading across the concrete bridge.

You should be on a concrete track going up above the village, changing to dirt past a bungalow.(100m.) Continue on this track where the mountain drops away on your left when you reach the first fork (800m.), continue on the upper track, (ignore the waymarker on the lower track) You will see a small shrine at (1000m.) At the next fork (1200m.) continue on upper track. To this point is only about a 15 to 20 minute walk from the village. You reach a well - fenced Finca and olive grove on your right ,there is a dog warning sign on the fence,(1400m)

immediately you reach this take the narrow & overgrown old cobbled mule path, which leads up to the right and along with the Finca fence on your left. Keep climbing up this track on this side of the hill, (don't be tempted to head off down any goat tracks)! After a steady climb, you will get to a patch of rubble across the track, (2280m). go across this and continue.

The track takes you to a fence with a wire and pole gate to your left across a stream bed. - go through this. Keep following the track along the contours and up. At the top, you will get to a fence, go through the gate in the fence and then right to a larger gate (you may meet mules here).

Go through this gate, turn left onto the tarmac road, (there is a small white house on the other side of the road). Walk up past the almond field on your left. At the hairpin bend in the road,(3360m.& 930m.above sea level), there is an obvious dirt track on the right with a bird identification sign.

Follow this, which takes you above the villages under the limestone crags, with excellent views. There are several gates along this track, sometimes open, sometimes not. This is an easy track following the contour, about 1 hour to 1.30 hours walk depending on your speed.

You will bypass several farm buildings, but eventually reach a farm building on the left, next to the track. Keep straight on here, there are tracks off to right and left but you want to keep straight and the track starts going down. You pass an old concrete fuente (water point) (6140m.) and a patch of concrete road with goat hoof prints in it.

Continue until you get to a large metal farm building with a green roof. Just past this, you will see a sign saying “Los Riscos”, also a bird identification sign at the start of a very steep concrete road. Descending this you come to the village of Juzcar. Walk down the road between the houses to a T-junction with the tarmac road at the bottom of the village (8000m.) Turn left and walk up to Torricelli's bar, 8140m. (closed Mondays). for a lunch stop of excellent tapas.

Back to Alpandeire: Back to the bottom of the village and continue on the main road, past the public swimming pool on the right and a blacksmithing business on the left, you are on a railed footpath to the right of the road.

Keep following the road up several bends, pass the 1 km marker, (9000m.) and just past a gate after some Armco railing, on your left, (9150m.) you will see a faint gulley on your right,(9150m) this is the footpath. Go right up a track through a chestnut field and almond grove. Keep going up all the time.

You come out onto the road again between some more Armco (9430m.) Walk to the right around the bend in the road to a waymark on the right,(9470m.) Leave the road here and follow the path upwards, first through chestnut trees then with a fence on your right and a steep bank on your left, ignoring a path dropping away to the left,(9750m.) until you clear the trees and reach some Pylons.(9860m.) Take the wide track ahead of you downhill to meet the road again at (10,500m.)

Keep going up the road and you will reach a set of farm buildings, complete with the obligatory barking dogs, on the right at a bend. Continue on the road, you will see the old pig farm on the hill opposite Alpandeire. Continue on until you pass the monument to Fray Leopoldo, above and on the right just before Alpandeire.

When you reach the village,(12,600m) go down the main (steep) street on your left into the plaza at the bottom, turn right and walk down the alley until you reach the end of Calle Dr Duarte. Another great place for traditional and very cheap food is the Bar El Tapeo in Alpandeire’s plaza (closed Mondays, open rest of week 12-4pm and 8pm until late).

If you decide not to go into Juzcar village, there are plenty of places on this walk to stop for a picnic. Happy walking!

Property Section by CadizCasa Q: I am buying a house in the Costa de la Luz and my estate agent says I can use the same solicitor as the seller and split the costs is that correct?

A: There is nothing to stop you using the same solicitor but I would not recommend this as you need to have independent, unbiased legal advice. While this arrangement may work well and without any complications, if there is a difference of opinion you need to be assured your position is protected. It will be dearer but I would always advise that the buyer and seller have separate solicitors. Q. Can you please explain to me what “black” money is. It all sounds a bit shady.

A. Black money is the term used for money which is not declared to the Tax Authorities. It is an old fashioned practise which has almost died out in Spain. People would purchase for instance a house by paying some “white” money (or declared money) and some “black” money (or undeclared money). The house would be declared to the authorities at the white money price and the balance would be paid in cash.

This practise is not legal and never has been. If you get involved in paying “black” money then you may very well end up having to pay the tax which has not been paid when you sell the house if the buyer wants everything to be declared.

I would not recommend that you get involved in this situation as it may cost you a lot of money in the future.

Q. There is a communal pool where we live and it has been open in the summer for the past few years without any problem but we were all called to an emergency meeting by the Administrator who runs the pool to say that some house owners do not want to pay the annual charges and want the pool made in to a private club. Can they do this?

A. If the pool is included in the Escrituras of the property and is part of the terms of the sale of the property then when you bought your house and when those who do not want to pay bought their houses they agreed to taking on responsibility for the pool and paying their share.

Now that times are hard and money is tight they cannot just decide that they want to opt out of their responsibilities. The Administrator should be aware of this and I imagine he was only giving the option of making it a private club not suggesting that this was a good idea.

I personally would not recommend this course of action as rights to use the pool would be sold off to anyone who wanted to buy them and you would have people from outside your housing area coming in to use the pool which could cause all sorts of problems with security etc.

London Philharmonic and Spanish Classical Artists to play concert in Trujillo this Summer

A new festival is taking place this July in Trujillo, one of Spain's most historic towns which is surrounded by the UNESCO world heritage sites of Caceres, Merida and Guadalupe. The classical concert offers three nights of world-class music with The Soloists of London and Spain's finest artists: Javier Perianes and international singers from The Teatro Real, Madrid.

The location is the beautiful patio of the Palace of the Dukes of San Carlos, within easy reach of Madrid and Sevilla. We have negotiated exclusive rates (see below) with the renowned four star NH hotel, including all facilities and swimming pool.

The luxury NH Palacio de Santa Marta is located in the historic area of the city, right next to the Plaza Mayor and Castillo. There are a few pre-booked places that can be reserved until the 1st of June at a special discounted rate of 55 euros. This price is for two people and includes breakfast (normal price 121 euros).

For more info: mattcoman@hotmail.com Tel : 00 44 7973 720 439 / 00 34 617 27 61 61 Javier Perianes: www.javierperia- nes.com

PATIO DEL PALACIO DE LOS DUQUES DE SAN CARLOS Programme Friday 29th of July THE SOLOISTS OF LONDON ROMANTIC CONCERT BY CANDLELIGHT Mozart, Elgar, Barber, Rodrigo,Tchaikovsky Price 10 euros

Saturday 30th of July THE SOLOISTS OF LONDON WITH INTERNATIONAL PIANIST JAVIER PERIANES Bach - Concerto for piano, BWV 1056 Mendelssohn - String symphony, No. 10 Mozart - Concerto for piano, No.12, K41 Price 15 euros

Sunday 31st of July THE SOLOISTS OF LONDON Spain's finest singers and conductor from El Teatro Real, Madrid Adaption of Verdi's, LA TRAVIATA (with costume/con vestuario)

Price 15 euros

Our Veterinaries have Emergency Services 24 hours a day every day of the year. We have a fully equipped Laboratory room ready to do tests in minutes. Also we have all the necessary diagnostic equipment, ultrasound, radiology and electrocardiogram •Chiclana: Fernando Magallanes,17. . Phone 24hrs: 956 402972. Fully equipped operating rooms where •Puerto Real: Ctra. Medina Km 1,5. we perform all types of soft tissue Phone: 956 804543 & 24hrs: 956 surgeries such as sterilization, biopsy, 870717. •Puerto Santa Maria: Plaza de la Espe- mouth cleaning, and trauma surgery & ophthalmology specialties. The centres ranza,1. Phone 24 hrs: 956 870717. provide hospitalization and intensive care Also we can advise on preventive unit. medicine and internal medicine. We have a wide range of specialities for We have everything your best friend may your pet: exotic animals, ethology, need, and most importantly, the cardiology, geriatrics, neurology, personalised attention that your pet reproduction, and ophthalmology. deserves. CLINICAS VETERINARIAS AVILA We have an excellent team of veterinarians, auxiliary and biologists, divided between our three centres:

Food & Wine - La Pampa Argentine Restaurant Chiclana

Argentina is one of the biggest high-quality meat producers in the world, the meat having a unique and delicious flavour. Parrilla La Pampa import their cuts directly from Argentina, making this Chiclana based restaurant a must if you’re a fan of Argentine cuisine.

In addition to old international favourites such as spaghetti and cannelloni dishes, omelettes, salads and fish, Parilla La Pampa’s ‘Criolla Cuisine’ menu offers delicious traditional Argentine recipes such as Provoleta (melted cheese), Empanadillas (pastry with mince meat), the typical Parrilladas (barbecued meat), Spanish Cochinillo (piglet) and Cordero (lamb).

At dessert time, indulge in “dulce de leche” (toffee caramel), pancakes & puddings.

The Restaurants are cosy and homely; a great place to spend an evening with friends for on any occasion.

10% discount with all reservations. (Please mention Baywatch when booking a table) TASTE, FEEL AND BREATHE ARGENTINA..

My first thought when I walked into La Pizzeria Artesana, El Colorado, was that we had made the right choice by choosing to eat here, and I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wrong.

Everything about this restaurant is impressive, from the relaxing and cheery ambience to the warm and attentive nature of owners Antonio and Lorenzo and their excellent staff, always on hand with a smile to ensure their diners are happy.

It would be no exaggeration to say that the pizzas, of which the choice is great, were some of the best we have ever tasted: the chef is clearly very skilled, preparing his pizzas with love in a traditional wood-fired oven. Also on the menu are a good selection of authentic pastas and salads, and of course there are plenty of good, reasonably priced wines to choose from to complement your Italian dining experience.

The dessert menu was also impressive and all in all, La Pizzeria Artesana comes highly recommended.

The owners are especially keen to welcome groups for celebrations, especially parties during the week, and will open at lunchtimes for you if you wish.

La Artesana is open weekdays from 7.30pm -12.00mn and at weekends 1.30pm - 4.00pm and then 8pm - 12.00mn. Closed on Tuesdays.

La Pizzeria Artesana is situated on the main N340 in El Colorado, alongside (and slightly behind) the Venta Andaluz - you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss it and you won't regret it!

Call 689 957 273 to book a table or order your take-a-way food.

by Colin Wood

Simple Summer SmoothiesGretelle Daffón

Growing up in the Philippines a few hundred kilometers above the equator introduced me to a lifestyle of fresh fruit year-round and the (what seemed to be a losing battle) struggle to beat the heat. One can find fruit shakes (as we call them) readily available all over Southeast Asia in a large variety of flavours – mango, banana, coconut, star fruit, lychee U you name it, we got it.

After I moved to the USA, my habitual dose of fruity goodness was put off for a while. For me the fruits just didn’t just ”taste right”, being shipped so far in an early stage, they just don’t get the same flavour.

The smoothie pictured is Andalusian by nature.

Strawberries from the coast, splashed with La Vista de Medina proudly announces the orange juice from the campo. Just perfect for addition of new head chef, Neil Brown - who a sizzling Spanish summer. has spent the past few years fine tuning his skills in the renowned El Hacho restaurant in Gaucin. Neil joned the team in April and is already redefining the high standard of La Vista´s popular restaurant, which welcomes residents and visitors alike.

Salsa & Merengue Dance Classes with Gloria every Friday evening between 21:30 and 23:30 4€ per person, per week. (Starts Fri 10 June) Salsa Special of a FREE large glass of house wine or large beer per person for all dancers, partners and friends for all dinners between 19:30 & 21:30 on a Friday night Lunchtime Special, FREE large glass of house wine or large beer per person for all lunches served between 12:00 and 14:00. Special offer based on a minimum of 2 courses per person - starter & main course or main course & dessert.

By popular request the crossword returns for the Summer!

In this edition we test your knowledge of nature Answers on page 43

Love it or hate it itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back SUDUKO (Answers on Page 37 )

BO OST YOUR BUSI N E SS WITH BAYWATCH

For all advertising enquiries call Sales on 856 101 803 or 697 552 936 EMail: sales@baywatchonline.org

ALL CAR INSURANCE COMPANIES ARE THE SAME AREN’T THEY??

Car insurance is a boring business and we tend to just look at the bottom line before we decide to take out or renew a policy. This can be a costly mistake...

At Grupo PACC we work with many major Spanish insurance companies (Liberty Seguros, Reale, Groupama, etc) to give you a selection of policies with the best possible coverage.

• All of our insurers are signatories to the agreements which link major Spanish car insurers (CICOS/ASCIDE). The biggest advantage of these agreements is that they establish time limits for each stage of the process. If you have to make a claim and the other party’s insurer does not meet these deadlines, our insurers will authorize the repairs immediately. Make sure that your insurance company is a signatory to these agreements as many non-Spanish insurers are not. • Another very important point is that these agreements establish who is responsible in a whole range of different types of accident so if the accident report is filled in correctly, the claim can be processed in under a week and the vehicle can be repaired very quickly. If your insurer hasn’t signed up to these agreements, repair of the vehicle can take a very long time and may not be resolved until after a court case. • If your vehicle is written off, many companies will pay you the book value of the vehicle which can be quite low. Our insurers offer up to 30% more than this. In the case of a vehicle which is three or four years old this may mean a difference of thousands of euros. • Are you covered if your insurance company goes bust? In 2010 a Dutch company called INEAS went bankrupt and left 10,000 people in Spain with no motor insurance. Make sure your company is covered by the Spanish Consortium both for exceptional events and in case of bankruptcy. • All our insurers offer Europe-wide breakdown cover assistance as standard. Make sure that yours does as well and that it covers you from Km 0.

These are just a few points to consider. Our advice is to always ask for written quotes and to compare the small print before you decide which policy to take. Here at Grupo PACC we are always happy to meet up and explain the details of any policy we offer.

Conil Feria 5-8 June, Conil de la Frontera As with all the Andalucian ferias listed below, this invloves a mix of drinking, dancing, processions and a good dose of Spanish culture topped off with a great party atmosphere.

As always please check details

where possible as events can be Marbella Feria subject to change without notice 8-14 June, Marbella Every year at the beginning of June, Marbella pays homage to its patron saint San Bernabe (Saint Bernard, 11 June) with a week-long fair and festivities.

El Rocio Pilgrimage 13 June, from various locations to El Rocío, Huelva The El Rocío pilgrimage is the most famous in the region, attracting nearly a million people from across Spain and around the world to this small town in the middle of Doñana National Park, Huelva province. It is a fiesta less religious than you may expect, with many ‘pilgrims’ simply there to enjoy the singing and music, traditional dress and wonderful Wild-West style wagons making their way to El Rocío.

Fiesta de San Antonio 13 June, various locations A Saint’s Day celebrated in many places in traditional Andaluz style, including Alfarnate, Archidona, Canillas de Albaida, Frigiliana, Iznate and Pujerra.

Chiclana Feria 13-17 June, Chiclana The Chiclana Fair begins with the holiday of San Antonio (13 June) and forms one of the most important party dates in the Chiclana calendar. Andalucian tradition and spirit is everywhere: Flamenco music and Sevillana dancing, food, sherry, the typical feria dress for women and men... for one week Chiclana will be partying day and night!

Weekend Beach Party, Tarifa 17-19 June, Tarifa This annual party is organised by members of social travellers’ networking site CouchSurfing, but is open to all. The official campsite is at the Camping Torrelapeña and the party is held at the Tarifa Smile campsite, with hiking, rockclimbing and watersports on offer in addition to meeting new people, music, food and drink. You can find out more at: http://www.couchsurfing.org/meetings.html?mid=104291 but to register for a camping place and the meals and excursions, you may need to create a profile. If you don’t fancy being part of the organised event but would like to check it out, simply turn up (campsites will most likely be full, although many people sleep on the beach or in cars) and get down to the beach, where there will no doubt be many more spontaneous party-goers, fireworks and fun!

23 National Gypsy Pilgrimage 19 June, Cordoba Head to Cordoba to see an interesting slice of Gitano culture- the fiesta is open to all.

Algeciras Feria 20-28 June, Algeciras

Alfarnate Cherry Festival 21 June, Alfarnarte, near Antequera Cherries at cheap prices and a great party atmosphere makes this fiesta in a beautiful village well worth a visit.

Noche de San Juan 23 June, locations across Andalucia The night of the summer solstice to welcome the long, hot nights is celebrated in our region with beach parties, bonfires and partying ‘til dawn. Malaga, Tarifa, and coastal towns throughout Cadiz province are all worth a visit. Other key places are: Alfarnate, Algatocín, Alhaurín de la Torre, Archidona, Benalmádena, Cártama, Casabermeja, Colmenar, Cuevas Bajas, Cútar, Fuengirola, Genalguacil, Humilladero, Jubrique and Nerja. In Chiclana, La Noche de San Juan is marked by the burning of paper-mache figures in the town plaza, followed by celebrations through the night.

Fiesta de San Fermin (Running of the Bulls) 6-14 July, Pamplona, Navarra Although this festival takes place much further north, it is a world-famous festival with people from all over travelling to the town to drink, be merry and run through the narrow streets avoiding charging toros. Accommodation, if not booked in advance, is almost impossible to find, although you could stay in another nearby town and go to see the spectacle as a day trip (people also sleep on the streets!)

Estepona Feria 7-12 July, Estepona

La Linea Feria 17-27 July, La Linea

Dia del Virgin del Carmen 16 July, locations across Andalucia In fishing villages and towns up and down the Coast, the Virgen del Carmen, a patron saint to fishermen, is paraded around villages and towns on the Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol before being burned as an effigy, complete with fireworks, bands and merriment on the beaches. This feria is celebrated in many places including Benálmadena, Cuevas de San Marcos, Estepona, Fuengirola, Manilva, Marbella, Nerja, Teba, Tolox and Vélez-Málaga. In Chiclana, the local saint’s day is marked with a procession from the church of San Sebastian through Chiclana’s principal streets (La Banda). Dia de Santa Ana 26 July, Chiclana Ceremonies around the church of Santa Ana

Shape up for the Summer with Mike Northrop

It’s that time of year where the summer clothes are hanging in the wardrobe and you are faced with the challenge of squeezing into your favourite outfit and feeling good in your bathing costume. If you are not feeling quite as fit as you should be or feeling good about yourself, then now is the time to get fitter and healthier this summer. This section is about getting you to think more about you can do to improve your overall health and fitness.

Food facts: • To keep burning fat you need to eat every 3 hours. Skipping meals encourages fat storing enzymes. • Never shop when you are hungry • All food in excess will be stored as fat • You must eat to lose weight - maintaining muscle, which will in turn burn fat. •Exercise and increased daily activity is the only way to reduce weight permanently • Drink plenty of water – minimum 2 litres per day - it’s good for the skin, bowels and cellulite! The importance of increasing physical activity: “I haven’t got the time” is one of the commonest reasons for not exercising, along with the “I won’t keep up” or “I’m too fat”.

Physical activity burns off calories and increases your Metabolic Rate (dieting alone decreases this) and regular and moderate physical activity can decrease the appetite. There are also many other benefits of exercising regularly: • you will feel better and have more energy • it can help you to sleep better • it’s a good way of reducing stress • it can help keep your joints and muscles in good working order • it can strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis • it can improve circulation • it can ensure that your blood pressure remains normal, or lower it if it is too high

What sort of exercise should I do? Any exercise or activity you enjoy doing that raises the heart rate and makes you slightly out of breath. The exercises do not have to be too energetic. Examples of these are: • steady walking - 45 mins burns approx. 300 cals • slow cycling - 20/30 mins burns approx. 250/400 cals • swimming - 20 mins non stop burns approx. 250 cals Fat does not burn very fast. You need to burn approx. 3,500 calories to dislodge 1lb of fat. But do not get disheartened; the fitter you get, the better the body gets at dislodging fat stores. How active are you? Think about what have you done in the last week – walking, gardening, golfing, DIY, Using your swimming pool? Are you burning enough calories? Could you do with more activity? If yes, then join me down at La Barrosa Beach for a group walk to kick start your exercise. This will be a 1 hour brisk walk to raise your heart rate, get your muscles & joints moving and have an enjoyable time meeting new friends. Meet outside the Red Cross at 10 am on any of these dates: 4th, 7th and 14th June. Mike Northrop, Personal Fitness Trainer. EREP’s Registered (European Register of Exercise Professionals) You can call me on 634 688 745 or

email:mikenorthrop@ymail.com

Protecting and enjoying marine animals in Tarifa with FIRMM

The firmm (Foundation for Information and Research on Marine Mammals) is an organisation which researches and protects marine wildlife while offering the chance for people to experience the wonder of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat in the Strait of Gibraltar.

‘We see ourselves as platform for scientists and non-scientists, who can join us to share and deepen their knowledge on whales and dolphins,’ says founder Katharina Heyer.

‘A major concern of the foundation is to share the research results with as many people as possible. It can be regarded as platform for the exchange between science and the interested layman.’ ‘At firmm locations in Spain, Morocco and Switzerland, we do research, take people on excursions and organize numerous informational events. By doing this we hope to sensitize more and more people to the state of our oceans and their inhabitants, pursuant to the foundation’s motto: Only what people know about they will be able to love and protect.’

Katharina founded the organization in 1998 after a trip to the area a year earlier when she recognized that dolphins and whales on the Tarifa coastline urgently needed protection

FIRMM differs from other whale-watching enterprises in that it offers opportunities for enthusiastic volunteers to help with research collection, is actively engaged in educating schoolchildren, public institutions and the media of the importance of protecting these precious animals, and it presents new data and information at events all over Europe. ‘It is also important for us to treat the animals with the demanded respect in order to minimize any disturbance,’ Katharina says. ‘Therefore our skippers are specially trained to drive the boat in a careful manner. The organization firmm has also sent in "regulations for a respectful whale watching" to Spanish authorities in Madrid. Hopefully, one day all whales in Spanish waters can profit from that.’

Between April and October, research (such as checking whale stocks and behaviour) takes place in Tarifa, and it is during these summer months that excursions are available to the public.

Species on this stretch of water are the bottlenosed dolphin, common dolphin, striped dolphin, orca, sperm whale, fin whale, and the long-finned pilot whale. A two hour trip costs 30 euros, with discounts for children under six (10 euros), or children up to 14 years (20 euros). But if that isn’t enough, you can also take part in a one or two week intensive course, shadowing the scientists and staff and helping collate information. All details for these courses and the registration form can be found on the website. To book your place for the two hour trip, Katharina recommends calling two or three days in advance, as sometimes boat trips might have to be cancelled due to bad weather conditions (Tarifa is famous for its strong winds). Pedro Cortés 4 (next to Café Central) 11380-Tarifa E-Mail: mail@firmm.org Website: www.firmm.org Phone: 956 627008

CHIFRA UPDATE REPORT

People living on 'white land' could soon have access to basic services such as mains electricity and water. Here is an update of where we are now: After a long hard campaign, a special Chiclana Council meeting was held on the 22nd of March, where Chiclana resident, Mr. José Olmo spoke on behalf of various Local Residents Associations, including ChiFRA (Chiclana Foreign Residents Association), Los Llanos, Pago del Lío, Patapalo del Marquesado, Pago de Melilla Verde, Pago MelillaLagar and Valle Soto-Pago-Melilla.

The regulatory ruling could mean that 4 ,400 homes on 'white land', will now be re-classified as “built outside of the town plan”, thus possibly allowing them have access to basic services. The motion was approved with the PSOE, PSA and PP voting in favour of the ruling. José Pedro Butrón, José Antonio Blanco and Manuel Guerrero abstained from voting and the IU voted against the ruling.

The next step was on May 6th when the Official Provincial Bulletin (BOP) published the legislation. - The Junta de Andalusia has since reported on the action that it is taking to further this aim, in a written document, informing the local council that the board of Public Works and Housing is currently drafting a decree, which will serve to regulate the situation for those living in illegal houses built on land not designated for development.

Read more at www.chifra.org Best regards, Roger Alan Holmes ChiFRA President. 17/05/2011

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Community News & What’s On in and around Cadiz region Come and browse at the Happy EndingFinal Feliz car boot sale - held every Sunday from 9.00am to 2.00pm in the car park of Venta Casa Curro, Km 6 Carretera de Marquesado, Chiclana (on the right hand side just before Marquesado village). Donations of secondhand goods are always very welcome. Contact Margarita: 617 099 706. Website address: www.happyending-finalfeliz.eu

Animales de Andalucia have a market every last Saturday in the month (25th June & 30th July) 10am to 3pm at Hermanos Bonillo, the fruit and veg market in El Colorado (next door to Venta Andaluz). If you have any second hand items to donate for sale they would be greatly appreciated. Contact Maggie 956 493 237 or mob 659 354 350

Jan King, Chair of the Chiclana Ladies No 1 Fundraising Team is seen here presenting a cheque to Edwin Cherrey who was accepting on behalf of the local project for Age Concern España.

The picture was taken following a very successful fundraising event at Casa Blas in Pago del Humo, Chiclana on 29th April 2011.

The Chiclana Ladies No 1 Fundraising Team raised €660.00 towards the setting up costs of a local Age Concern group for the English speaking community - Age Concern España Project for Chiclana and Districts for the Over 50s. Thank you all.

Car Boot Sale in Aid of Kimba - Every Sunday, 11 to 3, If you would like a stall or to become a volunteer and help abandoned animals, contact Olga 956 409 259 or mobile 669 101 157. Email olgarosa257@hotmail.com Do not let them down in time of economic hardship, we need your donations A.A.V.V. "La Esperanza", Carretera del Marquesado, 54 Chiclana de la Frontera. GPS: N36° 43.1288 - W6° 12.5242 More What’s On FAIR CHAMOMILE Location: Pacific Northwest • Sanlúcar de Barrameda Date: Wed, 01/06/2011 - Thu, 05/06/2011 FERIA DE PUERTO REAL Location: Bay of Cadiz • Port Royal Venue: Exhibition Centre "Las Canteras" Date: Wed, 01/06/2011 - Mon, 06/06/2011 FAIR AND FESTIVALS 2011 Location: La Janda • Medina Sidonia Date: Wed, 01/06/2011 - Thu, 05/06/2011 SEAL IN CONCERT Location: Pacific Northwest • Sanlúcar de Barrameda Venue: Teatro Municipal Date: Wed, 20/07/2011 Hours: 22.30 h. Opening doors: 21.30 h Price: 35 euros plus shipping (in advance) and 40 at the box office. CARMEN OPERA Location: Jerez Jerez de la Frontera • Venue: Teatro Villamarta Date: Thu, 02/06/2011 - Sat, 04/06/2011 Hours: Thursday 2 and Saturday, June 4, at 20.00 hours

Hotel Getaways: Hotel Sindhura

Patria (La Muela) in Vejer de la Frontera, Cadiz

The Hotel Sindhura is a luxurious retreat, nestled in the stunning location of Pedania de Patria close to Vejer de la Frontera. Named after the sacred red powder used on the foreheads of Indian women to denote their marital status. Hotel Sindhura is built in the classic Andalusian cortijo style. Its central courtyard houses a traditional fountain and the air is perfumed with scents of jasmine and orange blossom. There are twelve spacious ensuite double rooms, one junior suite and one magnificent complete suite, all beautifully decorated and complete with gorgeous views, satellite television, telephone and a laundry service. Nine of the rooms also have private solarium terraces.

Sindhura specialises in curries: everything from traditional chicken korma to more adventurous dishes such as Goan pork sirloin curry with mango sambal or Parsi Lamb with apricots.

From the hotel you can explore the vast unspoiled beaches of Palmar and Conil, or travel north to the Cerro de Patria, a protected mountain fortress with Arabic ruins dating from the 7th century. Nearby Vejer de The hotel has 24 hour service, a swimming la Frontera is one of the most glorious pool, a charming hall with open fireplace, pueblos blancos, rich with Moorish and two large interior patios- one of which architecture and an officially designated is available for private parties, dinners and national monument of historical, artistic and gatherings. Sindhura’s restaurant offers a cultural interest. Just 20 kilometres from regional menu, breakfast buffet, bar and Hotel Sindhura is Medina Sidonia. Known as dining patio with lovely views of the the ‘Balcony of the Province’ it commands countryside. The menu is varied and quite panoramic views of the bay of Cadiz and is unique, capturing the very best of locally famed for its delicious traditional Arab style available produce of each season. There pastries. are salads, meats, seafood, with interesting dishes such as macho banana stuffed with Along with the other nearby beaches of black beans and cheese or Iberian secret Caños de Meca, Tarifa, Barbate and Bolonia pork with yuca and guasacaca and and with the luxury golfing, riding and quad

bike facilities of Dehesa Montenmedio, there is plenty to keep you occupied and the hotel itself offers archery, bike hire and information on hiking trails. There’s also a wealth of sporting activities nearby, such as riding, golf, hang gliding, surfing and much more.

Focus on: El Rocío , Doñana National Park Even if you are not able to go to the El Rocio pilgrimage (see our What’s On guide), the town itself is worth a visit at any time of the year.

It’s not just the pilgrimage that smacks of the American Gold-Rush era, with traditional wagons pulled by horses; El Rocío itself is a town with a rich history and its ties to the Wild West can be seen everywhere, from the houses with ‘American’ verandas, farmers in cowboy hats, untamed stallions running free in the Coto Doñana national park close by, tethering posts in the sandy, dusty streets where travelling by horseback is still the main method of transport, and numerous tack shops, with plenty to see and do for the budding equestrian. This is thought to be due to Spanish pioneers sailing to the New World and taking their architectural style with them and lends a fascinating air to this most interesting of Andalucian towns. Things to see El Rocío’s church, Sanctuario de Nuestra Señora del Rocío, although modern (built in the 1960’s) is also very pretty, especially when viewed from the entrance to the town with its stunning backdrop of salt marshes and wetlands.

Outside of the centre, El Rocío is something of a ghost town, with disused cabin houses belonging to the brotherhoods left empty until the annual pilgrimage where their members use them as accommodation.

However, this adds to the eerie frontier vibe of the town and, like Almería’s ‘Mini Hollywood’, makes El Rocío a very unique and magical place, although it has to be said that the main attraction of the town, outside of the Romería, is the neighbouring Coto de Doñana national park, which we will be featuring next issue.

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Knowledge of the electrical regulations and installation methods is vital if you are going to do any job involving electricity here in Spain. Steve Harris has worked in Spain for over 8 years and has been dealing with a wide range of urgent and non-urgent domestic electrical problems on a daily basis since moving here from the UK. Steve has customers all over the Cadiz region, Jerez and as far as Estepona, is always prompt and efficient, giving excellent service and good advice to his customers new and old. If you have any electrical problem, from mending a fuse to re-wiring your house, give Steve a call. Remember electricity is dangerous and if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand the complexities of Spanish installations then donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t meddle, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not worth it!