Magnificent Villa and Grounds
AEG517 - Great Golf Apartment €235,000 This beautiful apartment in Alhaurín el Grande comes fully furnished with brand new appliances & fittings. There are 2 beds and 2 baths, fitted kitchen & large lounge plus private terrace, storage & allocated underground parking. Great views & access to the course, a communal pool & gardens. Like this? Then checkout AEG423 on our website
AEG516 - Álhaurin el Grande
€895,000
A more attractive villa & grounds would be hard to find - 327m2 build - enormous ensuite bedrooms, large lounge, fitted kitchen, conservatory, perfect pool & poolside bar/BBQ. 10,000m2 of landscaped mature grounds with pond, bridges, walkways plus garage & carport. All services supplied - spectacular views & easy access. Like this? Then checkout AEG476 on our website
AEG511 - ENORMOUS Townhouse €371,000 Great investment opportunity in Alhaurín el Grande. 300m2 of townhouse split into a 3 bed main house & 4 self contained apartments part renovated yet still with the scope to make your mark - a reluctant sale - great views, internal patio & fabulous original features. Like this? Then checkout CNN515 on our website
Impressive Cortijo
VFR487 - Perfect Country Home €357,000 An incredibly well presented country home with 3 beds, 2 stylish bathrooms, fitted kitchen, lovely garden, swimming pool & spectacular views. Mains electricity plus community & irrigation water. Centrally located for Coin, Cartama and the Alhauríns. Like this? Then checkout ADT500 on our website
ALA338 - Alora ALA478 - Stylish Country Home €515,000 This fabulous home in Alora combines modern stylish living with country charm & character - 2 storey, amazing pool & views, 4 beds & 3 baths, striking kitchen & remarkable landscaped garden. Town water & mains electricity supplied. Like this? Then checkout ALA508 on our website
€795,000
A superb old cortijo fantastically refurbished and full of character: 468m2 built in 21,690m2 of land, 3 separate living areas comprising 7 beds, 4 baths, 3 kitchens, numerous cobbled terraces, lovely pool, stables, car`port plus private driveway. All services connected, impressive views and good access. Like this? Then checkout ECH464 on our website
contents
issue
31
costa culture
4
Cover story Kings,Queens and Automobiles by Mike Wilkinson
costa getaways
6
Selling oil to the Arabs by Harvey Mann
costa companies
12
Local Business Spotlight
costa lifestyle
24 26 27 28 30 32 35
Mens Stuff Changing your body shape What Men Want What Women Want Hannah’s Beauty Tips Wake up with make-up Helen Johnson A few excess inches
Cover story Health article Summer madness Health news Red hot peppers control hunger
costa homes
40 52 56
Cover story
Interiors Create Space
4
62 66
Costa Business Advice ‘‘If you had to rush off for a few days, would you be happy leaving your business in someone else’s hands...?’’
Cover story A carrot for Neddie by Peter Harrison
costa stuff
68 70 71 72 73 74 76 78 79
Costa Cuisine
32
Movie Review Book Review Showbiz Whispers Music Review Strange But True & Challenge Animal Health
40
Bytes and Pieces Spiritual Thought
guide to the costa
Cover story A labour of love By Simon Hill
81
Step by step guide to obtaining a mortgage in Spain
82
Useful numbers, phrases and shopping tips that will aid your stay in Spain Where to go and What to do along the Coast
business directory
85
66
52
All your services and business needs in our comprehensive listings Sponsored by www.guidetothecosta.com
Hello and welcome... to issue 31 of Costa Life Magazine, Can you believe the summer is now drawing to an end, I hope you've had long hot days at the beach and around the pool, we haven't, maybe next year‌ For some reason we just don't seem to have the time or should I say make the time. It's very easy not to take advantage and enjoy why we live here. Sometimes it does you good to look back at the reasons why you came to Spain and this can help you find that little extra bit of strength you need when times are tough. The Change a Life Ball was a great success and a great night was definitely had by all, you will be able to see the pics in the October issue. The monies raised have gone to Age Care Spain and Young Hope Sri Lanka. Don't forget, you can now read the magazine on line at www.costalifemagazine.com. 2000 people are doing so already. The website is now looking really impressive and the feedback and comments we have received have been really positive, and don't forget that you can read the new issue before it even hits the streets on the 26th of each month. We have certainly noticed that our popularity and name awareness have increased, so we are definitely doing something right, and as they say watch this space because things can only get better. That's it from me enjoy the rest of your summer We'll see you in October Sharon
Editor Sharon Holdsworth Consulting Editor Harvey Mann Design and Production David Philliskirk Advertising Sales Ronan Holdsworth Administration Lorraine Bonora IT Advisor Dave Howard of Alphashare Web Master Mike Wilkinson Contributors Bars In Spain Linda Christie Peter Harrison Hannah Henley Simon Hill Helen Johnson Jan Morley Dr J.S. Nicolas Cruella Parsons Annette Riggall Russell Vaughn Videonet Mike Wilkinson Company Director Ronan Holdsworth Partner Barrie Shearman Images courtesy of Costa del Sol Tourist Board Jump Photography Deposito Legal MA-0054-2004
For Information on distribution points, sales or any other enquiries call 952 471 091 or email: info@costalifemagazine.com or visit our website www.costalifemedia.com
Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within this magazine, the publishers can accept no liability.
Produced by and part of the HOLDSWORTH SHEARMAN MEDIA GROUP
952 471 091 info@costalifemagazine.com
>> costaCULTURE
Written By:
Mike Wilkinson
mike@costalifemagazine.com Meanwhile, the King of Spain was not actually playing cricket; he was picking up his new car, a Maybach (pronounced ‘MY-bock’) 57S - over three hundred thousand euros’ worth of very fast, 612bhp, 6-litre V12, Côte d’Azure blue motor with sterling silver ashtrays, dashboard trim and gear-stick knob. For free. Presented to him by none other than the President of Mercedes himself. King Juan Carlos I has got it for a few months to test-drive and report back to the German carmakers with his observations. Nice job if you can get it. It must be a good life, being born into royalty. Well, maybe now, but it was a dangerous occupation in the beginning - with all and sundry trying to conquer your kingdom from you. But how did it all start? Let’s open some pages of a Spanish history book.
hen you watch the F1 Grand Prix on TV nowadays, it’s understandable that there are a large number of Spanish flags being waved by spectators in the crowd: Alonso, the reigning world champion, is Spanish. But what’s going on when England are playing against the West Indies in a world test series of cricket at Edgbaston in Birmingham, and spectators are proffering Spanish flags and waving banners proclaiming ‘No-o one expects the King of Spain!’ The King of Spain? What’s he got to do with cricket? The Spanish are not into cricket or test matches. And I would hazard a guess that King Juan Carlos I of Spain has never even held a piece of English willow in his hands, let alone a cricket bat. (Incidentally, do you know why they are called ‘tests’? According to Pub Landlord Al Murray, it’s because England is the mothercountry and it’s a test of our colonial cousin’s manners… and the Aussies have been a bit rude lately.) But the red and yellow flags at Edgbaston were all down to a typography error… in celebration of Ashley Giles, Warwickshire and England spin bowler. SPIN bowler. The King of SPIN not Spain. But his commemorative mugs came back from the printers before a proofreader had had a chance to scan the four words of copy.
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4 costa life
Back in the days of the Romans, the country we know today as Spain was actually a Province of Rome called Hispania and it was no less than Julius Caesar himself who brought all the regions together under Roman rule which lasted for around 500 years. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Hispania became a hotchpotch collection of kingdoms, duchies, feudal states and warlords all fighting between themselves for possessions, property and power. During this brutal and uneasy time, only the Moors had the might to conquer these territories, which they did with the exception of a few northern areas like Asturias and the Basque country. So Spain was mostly under Muslim rule, except for the aforementioned Christian enclaves in the north, for some 700 years. But the true Spanish in the north kept fighting and, over a period of about 300 years, they managed to push the Moors further and further south until all they had left was a bit of Andalucía, in and around Granada. Spain was still divided up into various countries and kingdoms, some at
costaCULTURE >> war with each other, and others living under truces borne from arranged marriages of various princesses. But it was in 1479, when King Ferdinand of Castile and Leon inherited the Kingdom of Aragon when his father John II of Aragon died, that Spain had a chance of becoming a single country. When Ferdinand and his wife Queen Isabella II of Castile vowed that they would dismiss the Moors from their country, it gained unilateral support from across Hispania and with the help of the Spanish Inquisition they drove out the last of the Muslim invaders from Granada in 1492, leaving Spain with a single monarch, King Ferdinand I of Spain. Actually, because he was ruler of all the kingdoms that made up Hispania and others (with the exception of Portugal, of course) the King’s full title read thus: King of Spain, King of Castile, of León, of Aragón, of the Two Sicilies, of Jerusalem, of Navarre, of Granada, of Toledo, of Valencia, of Galicia, of Sardinia, of Córdoba, of Corsica, of Murcia, of Jaén, of the Algarves, of Algeciras, of Gibraltar, of the Canary Islands, of the East and West Indies, of the Islands and Mainland of the Ocean Sea; Archduke of Austria, Duke of Burgundy, of Brabant, of Milan, of Athens and Neopatras; Count of Habsburg, of Flanders, of Tyrol, of Roussillon, and of Barcelona; Lord of Vizcaya and of Molina; Captain-General and Supreme Head of the Royal Armed Forces; Sovereign Grand-Master of the Order of the Golden Fleece and of the orders awarded by the Spanish state. But that was a bit of a mouthful, so now he’s just known as ‘Rey de España’. Once Spain was united as a single country, the Spaniards stopped fighting amongst themselves and turned to conquer the rest of the world, which they did a pretty good job of. King Ferdinand I sent out Christopher Columbus, who thought he was sailing around the back of the world to get to the rich trading centres of China and Asia, but accidentally discovered the West Indies and the Americas and, with a wealth of gold and silver from these new-world countries, Spain became the largest and most powerful nation in the world. Their new-found wealth, however, would eventually prove to be their downfall, because they found it a lot easier to buy the things they wanted rather than make them themselves, and so agriculture and manufacturing in the country hit an all time low. An oft-repeated tale goes along the lines that King Ferdinand I of Spain had a lisp and that his Castilian subjects copied his manner of speaking so that they didn’t upset the monarch and that is why Spaniards lisp the letters C and Z as ‘th’, as in ‘gracias’ and ‘Cadiz’. Clearly this is untrue, firstly because the Castilians considered themselves Castilians rather than Spanish and they wouldn’t give a tinker’s cuss about the feelings of the king. Also, a lisp is a speech impediment concerning the letter S, which the Spanish are quite able to pronounce, for example, ‘España’ and ‘Sierra’. The story is merely an urban legend, a myth (or even a mythunderstanding) that people believe because they hear it recounted so often. What I want to know is what cruel and heartless fiend came up with a word to describe a condition that the sufferers of the condition cannot pronounce properly? That’s just mean! Another urban legend with connections to the Spanish monarchy concerns the origin of the name ‘Elephant and Castle’ in London. It is said that it stems from the time when Edward I of England (before he was
actually the king) married Eleanor of Castile, the daughter of King Fernando III of Castile. As she was the eldest daughter of the monarch, but without a claim to the throne, she was apparently known as the ‘Infanta de Castile’. The story goes that the English couldn’t cope with her Spanish title and so morphed it into Elephant and Castle. It sounds plausible but it is clearly untrue because Eleanor of Castile wasn’t an infanta, or at least wasn’t known as one, as the term only appeared in English around about the year 1600, and she got married some 350 years before that. The truth of the matter is that the castle in question is actually a howdah on the back of the elephant (a howdah being an Indian seat traditionally used by hunters). The public house called the Elephant and Castle was ‘Weatherspooned’ about 1760 from a smithy that had had the same name and sign. This had connections with the Cutlers’ Company, a London craft guild founded in the 13th century which represented workers who made knives, scissors, surgical instruments and the like. The guild used the same emblem. The link here is the Indian elephant ivory which was used for knife handles, in which the Cutlers’ Company dealt. So there… they don’t call me Mike the Mythbuster for nothing :-) But I digress… let’s get back to Spanish Kings. Once the monarchy was established it carried on happily until 1700 when King Carlos II died without an heir. This sparked off the War of Spanish Succession which lasted for over a decade, where two separate dynasties in France and Austria fought to claim the Spanish inheritance. Other countries got involved either in an effort to check French expansion or to acquire further territory for themselves. And basically, people have been fighting over Spain ever since, including Napoleon Bonaparte who conquered it in 1808, and most recently by Franco who took over the country after the Spanish Civil War which ended by King Alfonso XIII not so much abdicating as running away. After 40 years of dictatorship, on Franco’s death, the Spanish monarchy was finally restored by King Juan Carlos I, who bagged himself a Maybach 57S … and they all lived happily ever after.
Written By:
Harvey Mann
M
y younger brother is what you would call a super salesman; he could easily sell ice to the Eskimos and even sand to the Egyptians. However he would not be the first to sell oil to the Arabs as this has already been achieved. The oil in question is not for fuelling the sheiks’ gold-p plated stretch limos or numerous Rolls Royce or Bentleys. I’m talking cooking oil. Not just any old cooking oil; this is something special: an extra virgin olive oil named after a castle in Spain, the 16th century Castillo de Canena, in the province of Jaén. This is from where the Vañó family supplies the seven-sstar Burj Al-A Araba hotel in Dubai with its award-w winning extra virgin olive oil.
Since 1780 the Vañó family of La Loma have been producing a virgin extra olive oil acclaimed by many to be Spain’s answer to French champagne. Not to be sipped from a crystal flute, this nectar of the gods for me is to be chucked with gusto over my daily salad. The Vañó family’s oil is produced in the valley of Guadalquivir, which is the world’s leading region for the production of extra virgin olive oil. The source of the Guadalquivir River starts in the Cazoria Mountain range that dominates the skyline of Jaén, a far-flung province of Andalucia, with an area of 13,500 km2 that borders the region of Castille. With a population of around 600,000, Jaén province is a cornucopia of traditional Spanish sleepy white villages such as Ibros, Canena, Viches, Arquillos, Navas de San Juan, Sabiot and Torreperogil. Then there are the mining towns of such as Linares and the prettily named La Carolina, and then finally Andújar that is the centre of farming and the Provinces industry. Olivares de Jaén (Olive Groves of Jaén) is the title of an often-recited 20th century poem, dedicated to the seemingly endless valleys, hills and fields planted with olive trees which were first brought to Spain by the Romans. The register of Úbeda that dates back to 1780 cites the first documentation of the Vañó great-greatgrandfather’s name and his association with olive oil in the Conde de Guadiana region. The extra virgin oil produced by the Vañó family is Castillo de Canena, and takes its name from their beautiful 16th century home, a castle that overlooks the attractive village of Canena. Built by the Arabs over the ruin of a Roman castrum, it has said that the King of the Taifa of Toledo took refuge in the castle during a battle for the town. Later the castle was to become a frontier defensive fortress against the Arabs during the 200 years that followed the battle of Navas de Tolosa. Later, in 1538, Francisco de los Cobos, secretary to Emperor Charles V, asked architect Vandelvira to transform the castle into a beautiful example of an Andalucian renaissance castle palace; so much so that the Emperor Charles V is said to have stayed there. This one time fortress has remained in the hands of the descendants of Cobos, now the Vañó family, who are in their own right the Marquises of Camarasa. The castle was declared a national monument in 1931, and since then has been restored and preserved with the utmost care by the Vañó family. Three members of the family run the present-day olive oil business. They are the President, Luis Vañó, an economist and lawyer and well-known consultant in the Spanish financial world. Francisco Vañó is the General Manager and a prominent lawyer, and Rosa Vañó, the Commercial and Marketing Manager, is an economist who once worked for the Coca Cola Company in the USA. With a multi-million turnover, they employ 75 people such as managers, land experts, farmers, mill masters, mill quality and process controllers, economists, administration and management personnel and commercial executives, and they all help to oil the wheels that sells the oil to the Arabs. Jaén, the provincial capital, is set among a range of rugged mountains and olive groves, a dogs’ paradise of more than 40 million olive trees, as far as the eyes can see. The present day population in this likeable busy
bustling city is around 115,000. Fernando III, or ‘El Santo’ as he was called, laid siege to the town in 1246 to remove it from the grasp of the emirate of Granada. Fernando agreed, in exchange for half the emir’s annual income, to respect his frontiers. In the 15th century the Catholic Monarchs made Jaén the base to launch the final offensive against the Granada emirate. Centuries of decline were to follow and, after the Reconquista (reconquest), the strife, hunger and discontent caused thousands of Jaennenses to emigrate to other Spanish colonies; hence the name of Jaén in Peru, the Philippines and many other Spanish enclaves. Old Jaén has a mass of old narrow winding streets huddled around the foot of the Cero de Santa Catalina, a wooded hill crowned by a castle which overlooks the western side of the city. Near the southern end is the monumental cathedral of the city, a huge edifice built in the 16th and 17th centuries on the site of what was Jaén’s main mosque. The dominant twin towers on the southwest façade are more Baroque than Renaissance, with a large number of statues styled by Pedro Roldán of Seville. The interior is cavernous - so much so that you could describe it as gloomy - but lifting the mood is a neck breaking cluster of Corinthian columns that give some glamour to the height, and likewise the beautiful ornately carved choir stalls. The Capilla Mayor (Capilla del Santo Rostro) houses the Reliquia del Santo Rostro de Christo, a cloth said to have been used to wipe the face of Christ while he was on the road to Calvary, and this now bares marks that are said to be his image. Palacio de Villardompardo is a very handsome Renaissance Palace that now houses two museums, and what is clamed to be the largest Islamic bathhouse with wonderful examples of Islamic horseshoe arches and star shaped skylights. Jaén has several very good museums that would give you an excellent insight into its history. Iglesia de la Magdalena is Jaén’s oldest church, originally a mosque with a Gothic main façade and interior, and the tower was originally a minaret but was reworked in the 16th century, now giving it its present day look. Castillo de Santa Catalina to say the least is spectacular, and a must see. It is a former Muslim fortress, perched on a high hill that towers above the city. For a few euros, you can take the 4km circuitous drive from the city centre up to the entrance or, if you are fit, a brisk walk will take about 40 minutes. North of Jaén is the unremarkable town of Bailén, but just a few kilometres further north is one of Andalucia's finest Muslim castles built on a ridge above the town of Banos de la Encina. Built in 967 by Cordoban Caliph Al-Hakim II the oval castle has 14 walled towers and a large keep which is entered through a double horseshoe arch. It fell to Christian armies in the battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212. Andújar is a thriving olivefarming town that lies on the banks of the
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>> costaGETAWAYS
Guadalquivir River in the north of the province, and boasts several fine monuments including the 12th-century Gothic Church of Santa María with its plateresque (Spanish Renaissance) façade and a Mudéjar (Moorish style) bell tower. Inside is an El Greco painting of Christ in the garden of olives. A Roman bridge with 15 arches spans Andúlar’s muddy waters and this is overlooked by the obligatory ruins of a Moorish fortress. Parque Natural Sierra Mágina’s peaks are visible from the Jaén-Granada and Jaén-Baeza roads that cross the A-301 south of Úbeda, and are a rugged swath of mountains topped by the Mágina peak at 2,176 metres, the highest in Jaén province. Another natural wonder is the Parque Natural de Cazorla with complex mountain ranges divided by high plains called navas, deep rivers and lakes, and a host of wildlife such as red and fallow deer, wild boar and Ibex. Baeza stands on the northern side of the Guadalquivir valley and is packed with stunning examples of Gothic and Renaissance buildings. O n c e renowned for its bazaars during the Muslim period, later it became one of the first Andalucian towns to fall to the
Christians. The Palacio de Jabalquinto is a magnificently mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, built in around the 16th century with a spectacular Isabelline Gothic façade and a Renaissance gallery. You may think that Baeza is one of the most heavily guarded towns in Spain but all the uniformed youngsters that you see on the streets are students from the Academia de Guardias de la Civil situated in the town. I suppose the town of Úbeda for me in some ways is like an old friend as my wife and I have had for many years a little collection of beautifully glazed dark green pottery from Úbeda. Úbeda is just a 9km drive through olive groves from Baeza and has a heritage of wonderful structures from a bygone age. Plaza Vasquez de Molina, the jewel in the crown, has the finest example of 15th and 16th century Renaissance buildings in Andalucia. A lookout point (mirador) 150m east of the square along Baja de El Salvador gives fantastic views across the olive fields, with the jagged outline of the Cazorla Mountains in the distance. Úbeda was taken from the Muslims in 1234 by Fernando III. In the 14th century a group of local Knights were given the title of Lions of Úbeda after their heroics during the conquest of Algeciras, and in the present day motifs of lions are on many of the buildings. For many reasons Jaén is a stunning province, an incredible mixture of mountains, landscapes, cities, towns and villages. Andalucian history oozes from every building rock and tree, and to cover it all would take me months of writing. In Jaén aceite de oliva rules and the astringent odour of olive oil hangs in the air. It contains over 40 million trees, many hundreds of years old, which form miniature forests and stud the hills, growing on virtually all of the fertile land available, some 4,500 sq km, a good third of the province. Jaén on average produces 900,000 tonnes of olives, most of which are turned into 200,000 tonnes of olive oil. This makes up one third of Spain’s olive oil production, and 10% of olive oil consumed in the world.
Olives are harvested from late November to January. Whilst some growers have invested in new technology and mechanisation, many owners still use the old fashioned method of spreading nets under the trees and beating the branches with sticks and olive pickers earn on average 30 euros a day. Once the olives are harvested they are taken to oil mills to be mashed into a pulp, pressed and filtered. In the past the prime transporters were the mules which were used to carry the presses, but now modern machinery and stainless steel vats have replaced the burros and esparto-grass mats in which the oil was drained. The premium oil or finest grade is the virgen extra oil. The next best produced is the aceite de oliva virgen, virgen olive oil, and then there is the oliva refinado, or refined olive oil. One can easily surmise that olive oil is the lifeblood of Jaén and plays a major part in the province’s economy. Back in the village of Canena, just 10 km from Úbeda and Baeza at the Castillo De Canena, the Vañó family go about their daily business of producing their very finest extra virgen olive oil. The family say, ‘‘We welcome our clients and friends to visit our castle, to share in the experience of the world of olive groves and oils; in the incredible gastronomy of our land and the surrounding beauty of Úbeda and Baeza which both take part in the heritage of humanity and make this area the Spanish Tuscany.’’ The Guide de Gourmands of France has awarded the Castillo de Canena olive oil a Coq d'Or, while the Nairobi Hilton and numerous famous restaurants in California serve the Vañó family oil. Just picture the scene back in Dubai. Arabs in flowing robes, dissuaded by their religion to drink alcohol are splashing extra virgen olive oil, Jaén’s version of champagne from Castillo de Canena, all over their salads.
>> costaCOMPANIES
Local Business Spotlight
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16 Mansion House Conveyancing & Legal Services
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HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY Lisa would like to thank all clients for their continuing support as Kiss celebrates its 3rd birthday. The salon continues to grow in services provided and products available. Located in the centre of Fuengirola in Las Rampas Commercial Centre, the salon offers an accessible location easy to walk to and be pampered. The salon vision of providing a professional, friendly, clean and safe environment, offering clients a wide range of services in one setting and to create and maintain a desirable reputation as a quality Hair, Nail and Beauty Salon, is continuing to be achieved. The salon continues to offer all aspects of Hairdressing for both male and female clients, colouring, cutting, perming, using all latest techniques and products. Wedding hair is now offered, or if you fancy an 'up do' for a special event we can help. New to the team is Lynda, who is offering celebrity hair extensions, using human European hair, for fantastic results at great prices. All beauty treatments are available manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, eyelash and brow treatments, d-tox foot spa, massage, creative acrylic + gel nails and gel toe nails - go on pamper yourself! We are now offering two types of tanning, our tanning room has a new vertical sunbed, for sun worshippers who don't have the time, try a session of 8 or 12 minutes in the booth, tan accelorators are available in salon. We also offer the Fantasy Tan Spray tan, for the ultimate sunless tan, experience an even, healthy glow in this 15 minute treatment! Who needs hours on the beach! New to the salon this summer is beyond power whitening treatment. We have a technician visiting the salon every 6 weeks from the UK to offer this amazing treatment, get the smile you've always wanted! The salon team are all highly qualified and experienced and treat customer care with high priority, so whatever it is you're looking for I'm sure we can help. New products are introduced ongoing into the salon, but the latest being the pure natural slimming supplement, now available. PURE'S natural slimming products use effective herbal technology, achieving the same results in different ways, gradual, realistic and safe weight loss. This new range of slimming supplements offer a lifeline to anyone serious about shedding those excess pounds. All PURE products are ephedrine free for safety reasons, PURE takes its customers health very seriously. So why 'weight'? Why not begin your slimming program today? All salon staff can advise you on the use of these supplements.
The Staff Lisa - Salon Owner + Hair Stylist Michele - Hair Stylist Lyndsay - Beauty Therapist Kerrie - Masseur Dominque - Spray Tan Technician Lynda - Hair Extensions Technician Dawn - Teeth Whitening Technician Kiss has been here for three years and we aren't going anywhere! So call or pop in to have your Kiss experience today!! Kiss is open Monday - Friday 10.00 - 6.30 Saturday 10.00 - 4.00, appointments out of hours on request, booking is advisable as we are a busy salon.
Tel: 952 666 787 - 630 800 572
>> costa COMPANIES BUYING A PROPERTY IN SPAIN? DON’T TAKE ANY RISKS…SEEK INDEPENDENT ADVICE!
Mansion House
Conveyancing & Legal Services.
M
ansion House specialises in independent property conveyancing, in both coastal and inland areas. Those looking to invest should be aware that there are many risks involved in buying a property here in Spain unless due care is given.
When looking to purchase a property the only way to safeguard your investment is to make sure you follow this simple 4 step plan: 1. For an INDEPENDENT legal advisor to represent you. It may seem a very obvious piece of advice, but many people unfortunately fall for ‘free’ legal fees or estate agents recommendations regarding who to go to for legal advise, and this often creates a situation where information is withheld so as not to stop the sale from going ahead. Mansion House does not work in conjunction with any estate agents, so we give honest and non-subjective information at all times. 2. For thorough searches to be carried out on the property in question, to detect any existing charges or future developments in the area which may affect views or the value of the property. Mansion House carries out extensive searches on the property, both at the Land Registry and the local Townhall. 3. For you to be able to understand and be able to question proceedings as well as the content of contracts. In a foreign country communication can be a major problem, at Mansion House all our staff speak both English and Spanish fluently, and all legal documents can be translated into English. 4. Not to rush in. You may have just found the house of your dreams, but we advise you not to rush in and put a deposit down until some basic searches are done, as it can prove difficult to get your money back if there is a problem. As well as taking all of the above into consideration, there are a few other points to bear in mind, such as some basic requirements for formalizing the Deeds at the Notary’s office. Firstly, valid passport and NIE (Spanish Tax number) certificate is essential for all parties intervening. Also non-residents buying a property are required to obtain a certificate, from their Spanish bank where they hold their account, to prove the amount of money required to purchase the property has been brought into the country through an international bank transfer. This is an area in which they have become very strict in the last few years in an effort to eradicate the money laundering problem that exists here in Spain. The ‘‘under declaring’’ or the use of ‘‘black money’’ that has gone on for so long is now becoming more difficult to carry out. However, if you were pressurised to under declare by the vendor at the time you purchased your property, the consequences are that if you declare the full price upon selling - you are going to be hit with a large tax bill for Capital Gain.. It is possible to reduce this tax, in the case that you have built for example an extension, a garage or a pool, upon declaring the new constructions and adding them to the description of your property, in both the deeds and the Land Registry, you are required to declare the
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cost or value of construction. This sum together with the price you paid for property at the time of calculating your Capital gain, so you are reducing the overall tax liability. It should be noted however that declaring new constructions does bear its costs, namely a 1% tax on the value stated, as well as both Notary and Land Registry fees. The non-residents retention tax since January of this year is at 3% (previously 5%) of the declared sales price - this is withheld by the buyer and deposited with the tax authorities and held as a deposit until the Capital Gains Tax is filed, depending on your circumstances you may get a partial rebate or be required to pay the balance due. It is no longer sufficient to have a Residents card in order to avoid the non-residents retention tax upon selling your property, it is now necessary to obtain a certificate from your local tax office stating that you are a Tax resident in Spain. Although the usual requirement for this is for you to have submitted your tax returns in Spain, the requirements vary according to the local tax offices - some require proof that you will be staying in Spain after the sale of the property, by way of a rental agreement or a contract for buying a new home. Illegal property in inland areas is a major problem and special care needs to be taken before investing. Buying a plot of land for a wooden or prefabricated house is not a possibility either. There have been recent cases in Cartama, Alhaurin El Grande and de la Torre, for the demolition of such constructions. It is not all bad news however as there are legal properties out there, but it is just a question of checking all legalities thoroughly beforehand. Although it is commonly said you do not need a legal representative when selling a property here, we disagree with this and strongly recommended you use one. It is just as important to know the content of any contract you are signing, to make sure it is fair and not one-sided, to get advice on your tax situation as well as not leaving yourself open to possible legal action after the sale (boundaries and land measurements are often a cause of dispute). Mansion House is owned and managed by Deborah Mc Govern, a fully qualified conveyancer in Spain, with offices in both Fuengirola and Cartama, who works in conjunction with an in-house solicitor.
Mansion House offers their clients a wide range of other legal services such as:
Mortgage assistance Wills Self employment registration and company formation Application of NIE numbers and the new residence certificates (only for inland areas) Social security registration Car transfers and registrations Professional translation and interpreting service
Mansion House is currently offering Costa Life readers a 20% discount in conveyancing fees, reducing the standard 1% fee to 0.8%. To make an appointment, telephone: 952
472 872
Fuengirola office: [opposite train station] C/ Coronel Ripollet, Edif. Santos Rein, Portal 6, 3ºD Fuengirola Cartama office: [above Banesto bank] C/ Juan Carlos I, 98,1º, Cartama Office Hours: Monday to Thursday 9.00am - 6.00 pm Fridays 9.00am - 2.00pm
Mansion House Conveyancing & Legal Services Mansion House specialises in property conveyancing & legal services on the coast & inland areas. If you are looking to buy a property in Spain you need a qualified independent conveyancer, to ensure that the property you are buying meets all the necessary legalities. Our Conveyancing services include in depth background searches on properties to ensure their legality, assisting with mortgage applications, arranging surveys and topographical reports for plot measurements and boundaries, as well as post-purchase utility bills change over.
SPECIAL OFFER FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION & 20% REDUCTION IN CONVEYANCING FEES Legal Administration Services: - NIE numbers* 50€ - Residencia* 50€ - Vehicle registration 130€ - Vehicle name transfers 70€ - Driving License exchange 60€ - E121 Social Security Registration 80€ - Self Employment Registration 150€ - Wills 100€ Professional Interpeting & Translation Services also available Offices in FUENGIROLA & CARTAMA Contact our friendly bilingual staff for information or an appointment on:
Tel. 952 47 28 72 Mobile: 653 172 264 *Normal fees 1% of property price. All prices exclude state charges & taxes.
M o n d a y t o F r i d a y
O f f i c e H o u r s : T h u r s d a y 9 . 0 0 a m 6 . 0 0 p m o n l y 9 . 0 0 a m 2 . 0 0 p m costa life 17
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Costa Life What are you offering the clients?
Interview with Ms Geraldine Waterston Sykes, Sales Manager, for Mijas Diamond and Jewelry Centre in Mijas Pueblo. We wanted to speak directly with Geraldine about the Company she has helped to set up with Lynette Girling and Andy Iglesias in Mijas Pueblo and to explain a little more about the Centre which has recently opened in Mijas. Costa Life. Where did the idea originally come from to open a Centre such as this?
Geraldine We specialise in loose diamonds and precious and semiprecious stones for which a free 18kt gold setting, either as a ring, pendant or for earrings may be chosen. This is also an excellent opportunity for the client to exchange their diamond for a larger one with a full 100% credit against the earlier purchase at any time in the future. For clients coming to the Coast regularly this is the perfect chance to reach their target in affordable stages. We also have an extensive range of made-up jewellery at affordable prices, excellent quality and fabulous varieties of different stones. We also offer the extraordinary stone Tanzanite which is very rare and very affordable. We only stock the AAA and AAA+ to maintain the investment element and we set, again in rings with diamonds already mounted or as pendants in the design requested, usually with a diamond or two.
Geraldine. I have known Andy and Lynette for many years and worked with them in this Business since 1999.We started together working for a similar centre in Torremolinos and later in Marbella but they always wanted to find suitable premises in Mijas. As soon as this local became available they took it without hesitation and in a few months transformed it to the beautiful show room we have today. Andy has been working for many years in the Public Relations field and we bring groups of tourists to the centre on organised free trips to visit the centre and spend free time in the village. This has proved to be very successful and now we have extended the programme to include afternoon buses. Costa Life. How does the Company work exactly? Is it different from normal jewelry shops? Geraldine. Of course we are open to the general public as well but I think the choice of jewels and the unique selection of loose stones has proved both a novelty and also very popular. We are different from most shops as we have a qualified gemologist on site, Lynette who will help with choosing the right stone and setting and also a full time jeweler who can be seen in his workshop actually setting stones and doing repairs and alterations. We offer a free entry to our prize draw for anyone who visits us and the prize draw carried out by a member of the public offers a 250 euro voucher which can be redeemed any time at the centre.
Costa Life; Well, We think you have a winning combination and wish your new venture every success. Geraldine. Thank you very much and a final word for your readers, we can be compared to any other jewelry outlet. We have a sound reputation in the village and even have been told we are comparable to Dubai for jewelry shopping. Please try us for quality and choice and be assured that a life-time guarantee is offered with any item purchased.
M Over 25 years´ experience ín cosmetic surgery Celebrity Hairdresser Jonathan Yeadon of Colour and Cutting Crew in Marbella, Spain began the New Year with a gift to himself having Liposuction at Mills & Mills Medical Group, Marbella. Jonathan, as a teenager had battled with his weight. He was described by the school dietician as morbidly obese and at 15 and 5 foot 6 inches he tipped the scales at 15 stone. He was very unhappy and was the constant victim of bullying at his all boys school in Bradford England. ‘‘it was horrendous’’ said Jonathan, ‘‘I just didn’t seem to fit in, I was the fat boy with the glasses and an easy target for the Rugby Playing boys at my School. Something had to be done. I dieted constantly but it didn’t help, my weight didn’t seem to alter much, then when I was in my twenties I discovered Weight Watchers. They were my saviour! I could follow their routine easily and with the help and motivation of the club at last I seemed to be able to lose the weight and maintain it. I changed my whole diet routine the weight was falling off. To change my body shape I was encouraged, by Weight Watchers, to join a gym and I have to say I’m now slightly compulsive and hate to miss my thrice weekly visits but the weight has never returned and at 36 and 6 foot I now weigh just over 12 stone. And it’s only thanks to weight watchers. Although I am now a gym fanatic I have never been able to get rid of my ‘‘spare tyre’’ no amount of exercise has reduced it and at one point I had the widely advertised ‘‘Fat Jab’’ in the UK, being needle phobic and having 40 needles injected into your middle was not a nice experience and what made it worse was that it didn’t even work at all. In absolute desperation I contacted Mills & Mills Medical Group here in Marbella,the reputation of the clinic was first rate and a lot of my clients had visited the clinic and were very pleased with their results. I had a free consultation with Marco Vricella one of the surgeons at the Clinic. He told me that he could use liposuction to get rid of the excess fat around my middle but he stressed that he didn't think I would be pleased with results as there was a limit to what he could do. He also suggested that I may consider a tummy tuck as the skin around my middle was slightly sagging from the weight loss, I refused, one op at a time I thought. But undeterred at his comments that I may not get the results I wanted I went ahead and booked my op. I was pleased with his honesty it reassured me that I had made the right choice of clinic.
The Clinic itself is amazing like a 5 star hotel and I was incredibly nervous but I was treated like a king, nothing was too much trouble and the care and attention I received was beyond belief. I had the procedure and stayed overnight and the staff checked me almost every 45 minutes. Marco came to see me and said that he had managed to remove more fat than he had expected and that I would be thrilled with the results. I was over the moon.. I feel that I
have managed to rid myself of something that has plagued my whole life. The results are incredible and the confidence it has given me is priceless. I am terrified of Hospitals but I cannot stress to you how wonderful the experience was, if that is possible. Mills & Mills are fantastic and I want the world to know it. Oh and by the way I’m going back for that tummy tuck, who wouldn’t!!!!
Call now to find out about our great summer offers!
QUALITY, CHO
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Marbellas Cosmetic Surgery Provider Liposuction surgery is without doubt one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures performed in the world. It can give truly outstanding results on carefully selected clients. It is not a substitute for a healthy diet or good exercise. In fact, following lipoplasty it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep the benefits of the procedure. Remember, that our goal with lipoplasty is to change shape, not weight. You may have also read about the procedure under different terms such as ‘liposuction surgery’.
Before the Procedure It is essential that you get sound professional advice before you go ahead with a lipoplasty procedure. At Mills & Mills Medical Group we believe that all advice should be free. That’s why we offer a free private consultation with our surgeons without any obligation. We also offer a meeting with one of our friendly patient co-ordinators who are on hand to give you information on other aspects of your liposuction surgery procedure, such as for example, the cost of the procedure, availability in our hospital, as well as different ways of paying for your procedure such as through a cosmetic surgery loan. Our co-ordinators are not there to give clinical advice, only our surgeon can do that, but they are there as a continual support throughout your care with Mills & Mills. Before you attend for your consultation try and write down all the questions that you would like to ask our surgeon. You may forget when you are there. It’s also a good idea to bring someone along with you for support, of course, if you want to keep the procedure totally confidential, that's fine too.
general anaesthetic on the other hand, means you will be asleep throughout the operation. Your surgeon will discuss the options with you. During the operation small puncture wounds are made in the area to be treated and a cannula is used to remove excess fat from the area. This cannula is attached to a suction machine. Lipoplasty is a very skilled procedure and demands a great deal from the surgeon. The length of the operation depends on the extent of fat to be removed and areas to be treated.
After the procedure If you have received a general anaesthetic you will remain in our hospital overnight. If only a small area has been treated under local anaesthetic it may be possible to leave hospital the same day. You will be taken home if you live close by or to your hotel for your liposuction recovery period. You will need to wear loose comfortable clothing after lipoplasty. This is because you will need to wear special support garments after the procedure. This is very important to achieve the optimum results. Your surgeon will advise you how long to wear the garment. Normally this is constantly for two weeks and then just in the daytime for a further two to four weeks. You should expect bruising and swelling after lipoplasty. You will feel sore in the area that has been treated. It can take some months for the final result to become clear.
Consultations are easy to arrange and are held throughout the United Kingdom and in Marbella.
We would advise you to take two weeks off work for lipoplasty, although some clients who have only a small area to correct, return a little sooner.
The Consultation
It is very important that you follow your post operative advice to the letter for lipoplasty. Tremendous results can be achieved in motivated clients.
Your consultation for lipoplasty surgery will last typically between half an hour and one hour. You will have the opportunity to ask all of your questions directly to the surgeon. He will examine you and make his recommendations. He will explain the benefits of lipoplasty and the risks too. Following your consultation with the surgeon, your patient co-ordinator will be able to confirm the cost and make all arrangements for you if you decide to proceed. During the consultation the surgeon will evaluate your lifestyle, medical history and assess the potential results carefully. The results of this procedure can be very subjective and it is vital that both the surgeon and patient are clear about the possible outcomes.
Free Consultation - the next step The next step is to arrange a free private consultation with a Mills & Mills Surgeon at a centre near you. This is easy to do. Simply call us on the number provided and we will do the rest. We will be happy to chat with you on the phone and answer any questions that you might have. We know how important this procedure is to you. It is our aim to provide you with a service second to none. We look forward to hearing from you
The Procedure This procedure can be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic. The former means that you will feel very sleepy but you will not be completely asleep. A
tel: Spain (0034) 952 908 538 www.millsmedical.com
Summer offers available contact Mills & Mills for more information
OICE & VALUE
>> costa LIFESTYLE
If women ruled the world
Changing your body shape... There are many different body types around, and we can put each body into one of three categories. ectomorphs - thin and wispy mesomorphs - athletic and muscular endomorphs - generously rounded or 'stout' Your basic body type is outside of your control - more to do with DNA, and your childhood lifestyle. So you are what you are, although you can fine tune what you already have.
Changing your body type
It's a man's world
Funny Sayings. . . Work, yeah I tried that one. Worst 7 minutes of my life. Always forgive your enemies - Nothing annoys them so much. If Barbie is so popular, why do you have to buy her friends? When everything's coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.
Rules for women. . . Shopping is not a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way. Crying is blackmail. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: subtle hints do not work, strong hints do not work, obvious hints do not work, just say it. Yes and no are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question. Christopher Columbus did not need directions, and neither do we. You have enough clothes. You have too many shoes. I am in shape, round is a shape. 24 costa life
If you're looking to change the shape of your body the basic groundwork is the same. eat fresh, low fat and healthy food avoid large amounts of alcohol and caffeine take regular exercise which should include elements of stamina, strength and suppleness. Try adapting your training along the following lines:
If you want to be ectomorphic (long and thin):
Do more aerobic exercise, running and biking and ensure you work at a steady state (70 per cent max heart rate). Use exercises that allow full range of movement - swimming, isokenetics Pilates or yoga, and take more time to fully stretch each muscle. Concentrate on eating complex carbohydrates such as pasta and potatoes and drink plenty of water.
If you want to be mesomorphic (athletic and muscular):
Work on short bursts of aerobic activity near to maximum effort - short sprints, jumping and punching. Do more weight-bearing exercise - pump iron. Use heavy weights, up to 90 per cent of your maximum capability and complete at least three sets of each exercise with no more than seven repetitions per set. Ideally isolate one muscle group at a time and work it until exhausted. You must have plenty of rest between each workout to allow the muscle to grow.
If you want to be endomorphic (rounded and stout):
Get yourself a DVD, a takeaway and some beer then sit back and enjoy.
Benetton
>> costa LIFESTYLE >> Be with the in crowd… Cotton trousers Benetton
Cotton long-sleeved shirt Benetton
Jacquard shoulder bag Benetton
Flip flops Benetton
>> Stay ahead of the crowd… Dark wash boot cut jeans
>> Stand out from the crowd…
Topman
Swim shorts Burtons
Sunglasses Burtons
White stripe roll sleeve shirt Topman
Catseye rosary Topman
Black patent pointed shoes
Flip flops Burtons Cowboy hat Burtons
Topman
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Store Locator A to Z
Benetton www.benetton.com Fuengirola. Burtons www.burton.co.uk Gibraltar. Dorothy Perkins www.dorothyperkins.co.uk Miramar and La Cañada. Promod www.promod.com La Cañada. Topman www.topman.co.uk La Cañada. Topshop www.topshop.co.uk La Cañada.
Benetton
costa LIFESTYLE >> >> A touch of class...
Chocolate sunnies Dorothy Perkins
Pink print halter maxi dress Dorothy Perkins
Gold floppy braid hat Dorothy Perkins
Gold canvas raffia wedge Dorothy Perkins
>> The finishing touch‌
Leaf printed mid length skirt Topshop
Mother-ofpearl beads Promod
Mid height Mary Jane shoe Topshop
Huge bold sunglasses Promod
Fringed bicolor ballerinas Promod
Printed mid length skirt Topshop
>> Step out in style‌
Equestrian fashion belt Promod
High button peep toe shoe Topshop Ballerina canvas shoes Promod
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>> costa LIFESTYLE
Wake Up with Make-Up Imagine the possibilities! Wake up looking beautiful. Step out of the shower, emerge from the pool or the gym with your eyebrows, eyeliner and lip colour perfectly in place. Well it is now possible, you can look wonderful 24 hours a day with this medically approved procedure. Semi-permanent make-up eliminates the chore of having to apply, reapply, and remove your make-up every day, and it will always look professionally applied! Colour is inserted into the dermal layer of the skin using fine needles dipped in hypo allergenic pigment (derived from vegetable products). People who have make-up allergies will not be sensitive to these pigments. 99.9% of people do not have any reaction at all. Pre mixed or mixed manually, you will be able to choose from a colour palette that matches your own individual colouring.
Why taking a siesta is a good idea Do you ever feel your energy levels dip after lunch? Scientists know that we have a tendency to feel tired in the early part of the afternoon, but they also know that a short period of shut-eye can increase productivity by over 30% and alertness by as much as 100%. Tests by NASA have shown that memory and concentration are also given a boost, while stress and risk of heart disease is reduced by 34%. Lack of sleep is also known to make weight loss more difficult. The siesta has been around for thousands of years and was even regarded as a necessity, rather than a luxury. It is still widely practiced in Spain today and it is a great excuse to get out of the sun during the hottest part of the day.
New range of Beauty Products now available on the Costa Über is the hip new beauty range that is the must have amongst the stars. Its edgy image is gaining Über cult status. Über has unprecedented unisex appeal with the stylish women's range Über Sassy and the cool men's line Über Slick. Über gives you the opportunity to share the celebrity lifestyle. The facial products smell tropical, even exotic, uplifting and fresh, perfect for the Spanish climate. With ingredients such as Frankincense, Mandarin, Avocado, Green Tea, Aloe Vera, to name but a few have a Rejuvenating, Moisturizing/ soothing effect and all help to promotes healthy skin. 28 costa life
Black is back! Black is still back! It's no longer considered "goth" to slick black polish on your nails anymore. Fashionista Linsday Lohan pulls off this look with style. But when copycatting her look, make sure your nails aren't too long or else you'll definitely be verging on scary instead of sexy.
costa LIFESTYLE >>
6 Questions every Nail Techncian should be asking! 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Am I able to get all my nail care products from one company? Am I able to get my supplies when I want them and on time? Am I able to achieve excellent results at an affordable cost to me? Am I getting a full back up service from my supplier? Can I get free advice on both my products and their application? Am I being kept up to date with new products in the nail care field?
If the answer to any of these questions is NO! then you should be speaking to Magnetic! Europes most complete nail brand company. Call for more information and a free demonstration.
Phone fax 952 560 051 Mob 607 586 894 Training courses available for Acrylic, Gel, Fibreglass, manicure, Pedicure and Nail Art email info@solnailsupplies.com www.solnailsupplies.com Calle San Antonio, Centro Comercial San Juan, Arroyo de la Miel, Malaga, Spain costa life 29
>> costa LIFESTYLE
A Few Excess Inches
C
ats it would seem have become the latest couch potatoes ! It is thought that a ¼ of all cats in the UK are overweight. Overweight weight owners, who are too weak willed with their own diets, frequently have overweight cats. Not too dissimilar to the worrying statistics showing that obese parents will more than likely have obese children !
But it is not just the obese that need to take note. Just a few excess inches around the waist can raise your risk of heart disease. Researches are now encouraging us all to take action against the bulge around our waists, to keep heart disease in check. Even a small ‘pot belly’ means a high risk of heart problems. Three to four inches extra around the abdomen is the external sign of build up of fat in the arteries. Research has shown those with a bigger waist measurement are twice as likely to have calcium deposits in the arteries, which form the plaque that hardens the arteries and increases the risk of heart attacks. FAT packed around the organs in the abdomen is more dangerous than fat on the hips because it is ‘‘metabolically active’’ releasing more of the acids that raise heart disease risk. As a rough guide to a healthy waist circumference, doctors regard over 40 inches for a man and over 35 inches for a woman as dangerous hip to waist ratios can be worked out by measuring hips at the widest part of the hip bones, and the waist above the crest of the upper hip bones and below the navel.
To begin with you may need to break this down further. Think of it as 3 x 20 minute errands on foot or one 30 minute walk before breakfast and one after dinner. Fitting anything new into an already hectic day may be a challenge, this 60 minute walking workout may help your focus.
15 MINUTE WALK IN THE MORNING Whether you are on your way to work, visiting a friend or a trip to the bank, park 15 minutes away from your destination and walk. The goal is to walk 1 mile in 15 minutes. To establish how far that actually is, you may need to measure the distance by car first. Remember - to wear comfortable sensible sports footwear.
20 MINUTE LUNCHTIME CRUNCH Get up and out for 20 minutes before lunch, maybe it’s a few laps of the block, up and down the seafront, or a walk around the urbanization.
10 MINUTE MID AFTERNOON BREAK Do you ever get that low energy feeling mid afternoon ? Get out, get breathing deeply, pump your arms up and down as you speed walk for 10 minutes. Remember you should feel as though you are about to miss the bus if you don’t get a move on !! This should also increase your heart rate to achieve a cardio workout too.
Divide waist by hip measurement to get the ratio. A ratio equal to, or lower than, 0.7 for women and 0.9 for men is a good sign.
15 MINUTES AT THE END OF THE DAY
LOSE WEIGHT BY WALKING
Try and do the same 15 minute route that you did in the morning. This time trying for 1.2 miles in 15 minutes. It does not matter if it takes longer at first, just keep working on improving your time.
Walking at a moderate pace for 30 - 60 minutes burns stored fat and can build muscle to speed up your metabolism. Walking an hour a day is also associated with cutting your risk of heart disease, breast cancer, colon cancer, diabetes and strokes. Weight is determined mostly by the balance of calories, how many you burn versus how many you eat each day. To lose weight you need to increase your activity to burn more, eat fewer calories each day. Walking further and faster, will obviously burn more calories. A pound of fat equals approx. 3500 calories. To lose 1 pound a week you need to expend 3500 more calories than you eat that week through increased activity and decreased eating. Losing 1 - 2 pounds of fat a week is a sensible goal. Experts say that taking roughly 10,000 steps per day sets off a chain reaction of physical benefits, including lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease. 10,000 steps may sound overwhelming ? but translated into everyday language, it is approx 4.5-5 miles per day, or one hour of rapid walking
Make sure that you take adequate amounts of water with you on your walk, and aim to drink a further 1.5 - 2 litres of water during the day to keep hydrated. Walking 20 minutes 3 times per day is as good as walking for an hour. You may wish to checkout with your local town halls, who through the year arrange regular guided walks around the area.
Helen Johnson - Personal Fitness Trainer & Nutritionist - 617 453 550 - fitness@luv2btraining.com 30 costa life
costa LIFESTYLE >>
Gymnasium fully equipped gym with both fixed and free weights crosstrainers + bikes treadmills + rowing machines professional instructor available only gym open at 8 am
Classes over 56 fitness classes every week step aerobics, aerobics, hip hop, yoga, bums & tums, latest reebok decks new from Finland “gym stick” suitable all ages individual pilates room individual spin bike room with 40 bikes individual aerobics and exercise room with sprung floor from Sept “early bird” fitness classes at 8am Mon, Wed, Fri Goshin Ju Jitsu + Tae Kwon Do
Facilities fully air conditioned - lockers high powered showers - hair dryers mens & womens saunas - jacuzzi
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O
n the upside, sunshine on your shoulders makes you happy, on the down side we are looking at sunburn, wrinkles, skin cancer, heat stroke and possible damage to our eyes. Like they say, ‘‘only mad dogs and Englishman go out in the midday sun.’’ But we don’t live in a bubble. So you beach goers, golfers, gardeners, contractors, farmers and fishermen, who are all outdoors for extended periods of time, should wear a sun block or sun screen product designed to protect your skin from the sun's ultra violet rays. You also need to wear a hat and sunglasses that provide your eyes with 100% protection from the sun's rays. Your objective is to block out both UVA and UVB rays with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15.
Myth: You can prevent skin cancer by putting on one application of sunscreen at the start of the beach day. Using sunscreen daily is a good habit to get into. But smearing it on only after your morning shower can give a false sense of security. One application of sunscreen is not good for the whole day; we sweat it off and it rubs off, so we need to reapply it every two to three hours, noting that most people need enough sunscreen to fill a 4-ounce glass to cover their body's surface. Even with a high-SPF sunscreen, you still get some sun. In addition to wearing sunscreen, you also need to avoid the sun as much as possible during midday and wear protective clothing.
leathery appearance can show up weeks or months after the sun exposure. More than one bad sunburn in childhood puts you at risk for skin cancer for the rest of your life.
Myth: You'll only get skin cancers on areas of the body that receive maximum sun exposure. Whilst this is generally true for basal-cell and squamous-cell carcinomas, melanoma will show up on areas of the body that get little if any sun, including the soles of the feet, buttocks, vagina and between the t o e s . Genetics can play a role in where
Myth: Getting a base suntan protects you from skin cancer. The term ‘healthy tan’ is a contradiction in terms. A tan is really a sign of injury to the skin. In an effort to protect itself from further damage, the skin cells produce a pigment called melanin, which darkens the skin. By the time the tan develops, permanent damage has been done and will someday show up in the form of wrinkles, blotches, sagging tissue and even skin cancer.
Myth: Visible symptoms of skin cancer will show up within a year or two of bad sunburns. The risk of skin cancer is based on accumulative sun damage. It’s not an overnight phenomenon. You can develop skin cancer 10, 20 or 30 years down the line, and skin damage such as wrinkling, blotchiness and a 32 costa life
melanoma shows up. The skin is an organ like the heart and the kidneys. Skin cells in the legs are linked to the buttocks, which are linked to the skin cells
in the ears. Because the skin is linked together, melanoma will show up anywhere on the body,
Myth: The use of sunscreen leads to vitamin D deficiency. Sunlight helps make vitamin D in the skin. However only a few minutes of sunlight a day is necessary for adequate formation of vitamin D. Most scientists agree that alternate sources of vitamin D in fortified foods and supplements are just as effective. The risk of sun damage to the skin without sunscreen is so much greater than the risk of vitamin D deficiency.
Myth: It's impossible to repair skin damage caused by the sun. The human body is an amazing organism. It is possible to repair and reverse skin damage and prevent the development of skin cancer. Although consistent sunscreen use and avoiding sun exposure can help, medications like retinoids and some high-tech laser therapies can help repair skin damage. Pre-cancers of the skin can also be treated so they don't develop into cancer. The skin is always repairing itself, so just preventing further sun damage will give the skin a chance to recover. 40 plus protection… Sun protection is important at every age, but it is more important in your 40s and 50s because you are much more vulnerable to sun exposure than you once were. If you’ve been having any kind of skin resurfacing treatment then the outer layer of the skin is a lot thinner than it once was. SPF15 is the absolute minimum you should consider and, if you spend a lot of time in the sun, you should then consider an SPF30 because anything less is putting your skin at risk. The best products should contain protection from both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays). You should be looking to see that they include in their key ingredients avobenzone, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
Your ticket to get rid of wrinkles… Studies done have shown that people who ingest a large amount of hyaluronic acid (sweet potatoes are loaded with HA) live longer than people who do not. Because the lack of hyaluronic acid is often the cause of premature wrinkles, it’s safe to assume that hyaluronic supplements are an effective means to get rid of wrinkles. There are however some studies linking HA to cancer. So, before you go off to your local health food shop in search of hyaluronic acid supplements, do a little research and maybe see a nutritionist or a doctor and ask them for a second opinion on this matter. Treatments that contain Hydroxy acids and moisturizing creams may help get rid of wrinkles. You have two choices for Hydroxy acids: alpha and beta. Alpha hydroxy acids are best for treating sun-damaged skin that isn't prone to things like acne. In other words teenagers should stay away from alpha hydroxy acids and go with beta hydroxy acids which are better for treating clogged pores, whiteheads, blackheads, and to avoid premature wrinkles. It is difficult to repair deeply furrowed skin that appears with photoaging, but thinner wrinkles, dark spots, and rough skin may be improved with the use of topical medications. Over the counter creams containing retinol or glycolic acid may help somewhat. Your dermatologist may also recommend more aggressive prescription acid creams or peels, or, prescribe stronger retinoids such as Retin A (tretinoin) or Tazorac (tazarotene).
Food for thought… Tomatoes and watermelon The red hue of tomatoes and watermelon are indicative of a powerful plant chemical called lycopene. Lycopene has been well documented to provide protection against a variety of cancers including prostate cancer. In terms of sun protection, lycopene has been shown to reduce skin cell damage and redness caused by the sun. Watermelon is at the top in terms of lycopene amount with a whopping 40% more lycopene in comparison to raw tomatoes. When eating tomatoes, try to eat them with a healthy fat in order to increase the absorption of lycopene. For example
put a teaspoon of olive oil in your tomato sauce. Harmful effects of the sun build over a lifetime, so protection should begin in early childhood. You can still enjoy that day at the beach or pool, but just make sure that you limit your time in the sun, head for the shade in the hottest hours and use a protective sunscreen to minimise the penetration of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
>> costa LIFESTYLE
KEYHOLE SURGERY Advanced surgical technique with reduced recovery time
S
urgery is often enough the last and only option for the treatment of certain medical problems. In the past this procedure did sometimes involve major surgery, resulting in a disfiguring scar and elongated post operative rehabilitation time. In the 1960th keyhole surgery techniques were developed. In the early stages of this surgical technique it was only used to find or confirm the medical diagnosis. With further development it allows the surgeon to not only to get a visual impression of the body part, but also deal with medical problems, like clean and wash out and repair damaged structures.
Keyhole surgery is nowadays used in several different surgical fields. Abdominal surgeon use this technique to remove the appendix, gynaecologist use it to remove small tumours from the ovaries, heart surgeons to advance a catheter towards the heart to check and clean the major blood vessels. As an orthopaedic surgeon key hole surgery is used on different joints and is called arthroscopy (from the Greek words arthros = joint, and scopien = visualize). Statistically out of 20 arthroscopies performed by orthopaedic surgeon, 17 of these a done on a knee joint, and two are done on a shoulder. The other joints that could be examined and treated by keyhole surgery are the elbow, the wrist, the hip and the ankle. Key hole surgery on a joint is not very demanding technically, but it still has a rather long learning curve due to the circumstances that the surgeon is looking straight ahead on a television screen, meanwhile his/her hands are using arthroscopic instruments pointing in a different direction. The surgeon also has to get use to the fact that the pictures visualized on the screen is magnified 2,5 fold.
Once the medical examine, radiographic or even magnetic resonance images have confirmed that there might be some medical problem, degenerative changes or damage following an accident inside the joints, key hole surgery would be indicated. The typical arthroscopy on a knee joint takes about 45 minutes. It is usually performed under general anaesthetics, but could be performed under spinal anaesthetics (epidural). A tourniquet (like a blood pressure cuff) is applied around the thigh to stop the blood flow into the leg and allow good visibility inside the joint. Two small, about half an inch long cuts are made on each side of the knee joint to introduce the camera on one side and the instruments on the other. The camera has the size of a pencil and is equipped with a light source and a magnifying lens. The coloured pictures are directly transferred by a cable to a television screen. Nowadays there a many different arthroscopic instruments available, like scissors, forceps, shavers, suturing devices and other. The equipment allows not just cleaning the knee out from any debris, but also repair damaged parts of the meniscus, fill up gabs in the cartilage surface and even repair a ruptured anterior cruziate ligament. A part from the cruziate ligament repair, the other procedures would be performed as a day case surgery, allowing the patient to go home the same day, using two crutches fully weight bearing through the operated leg. The stitches, usual one per skin cut, would be removed after 10 days, and the total recovery to normal daily activity like walking, swimming, driving and even minor sports like going on a bicycle or playing golf takes about 10 to 14 days.
For any further questions regarding hip resurfacing or any other bone, joint or soft tissue problem, please go to
www.clinica-sandalf.com or ring 952 57 77 66
Mr Alf Neuhaus
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Col. No: 9.220
Sandra Vincenti
UK Chartered Physiotherapist Col. No: 682 Treatment of Arthritis & Rheumatism Joint Replacements - hip,knee,ankle,shoulder Hip Resurfacing Advanced Cartilage Repair Keyhole Surgery Hand and Foot Surgery Accidents & Fractures Bone density measuring available X-ray Facilities - Diagnostic Ultrasound Back and Neck Problems - sciatica,whiplash,etc. Rehabilitation - post op,post injury Emergency Accidents dealt with (ambulance service available 24hr per day)
Travel insurance & International insurance claims welcome 24HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - TEL:656 313 293 Tel: 952 577 766 - E-mail: clinica.sandalf@terra.es www.clinica-sandalf.com C./ Pepa Guerra Valdenebros, 29631 Benalmadena behind Tivoli World Arroyo 34 costa life
costa LIFESTYLE >>
Cinnamon Lowers Blood Sugar… Adding some cinnamon to your dessert may temper the blood sugar surge that follows a sweet treat, a new study suggests. Researchers in Sweden found that adding a little more than a teaspoon of cinnamon to a bowl of rice pudding lowered the post-meal blood sugar rise in a group of healthy volunteers. Whether people with diabetes should start spicing their diets with cinnamon remains to be seen. One small study found that when people with type 2 diabetes added cinnamon to their diets for 40 days, their blood sugar and cholesterol levels tended to dip.
Men's minds decline more with age… Everyone becomes a little more forgetful as they get older, but men's minds decline more than women's, according to the results of a worldwide survey. Within each age group studied, men and women performed better in their respective categories on average. And though performance declined with age for both genders, women showed significantly less decline than men overall. Women slowed down more in terms of their decline, but when comparing men and women of the same age, men showed a greater amount of decline.
Late starters can live longer… Middle-aged adults who began eating five or more fruits and vegetables every day, exercising for at least 2 1/2 hours a week, keeping weight down and not smoking decreased their risk of heart disease by 35 percent and risk of death by 40 percent in the four years after they started.
Nice for your liver Treat it to a yogurt and a handful of fruit. People who regularly eat fruit and yogurt may have a lower risk of liver cancer than people who don't indulge in these good-for-you treats.
Health tip… Your liver does so many things for your body, from filtering your blood to pumping out bile so you can digest fats. So do something nice for your liver. Treat it to a yogurt and a handful of fruit. People who regularly eat fruit and yogurt may have a lower risk of liver cancer than people who don't indulge in these good-for-you treats.
Anger can help you think more clearly… The next time you are plagued with indecision and need a clear way out, it might help to get angry. Despite its reputation, anger actually seems to help people make better choices - even aiding those who are usually very poor at thinking rationally.
Top tip… If you're a health nut, munch on almonds, they have extra heart-protection power.
Red hot peppers help control hunger… Red pepper is the secret for curbing your appetite, when eaten early in the day it decreases food intake that is eaten later in the day. Try adding a little to your egg-white omelet in the morning. The capsaicin in red pepper may get the credit for decreasing appetite. The heat-giving ingredient appears to stop sensory information in the intestine from reaching the brain. It basically kills or stuns the message that you're hungry.
costa HOMES >>
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>> costa HOMES
We buy & sell quality used furniture And you can buy & sell at our Auction Tel: 952 595 187/ 600 828 742 C/ Cristo de la Agonia, Alhaurin el Grande (behind the Correos) Open Mon - Fri: 10am - 3pm Sat 10am - 2pm www.alhaurinauctions.com
Auction dates: Friday 7th September Friday 5th October Friday 2nd November Friday 7th December
38 costa life
W
e are familiar with the dramatic change that can come about from simply changing the colour on your walls, but how many of you have actually considered changing the shape of the space itself? A very narrow room with a high ceiling looks out of proportion maybe installing a false ceiling with recessed down lighters is the answer. This doesn’t have to be permanent, swathes of fabric can create snug areas in an otherwise clinical room. A separate bathroom and toilet; the answer is obvious remove the dividing wall. Try applying this to an ordinary space as well, one which doesn't have particular problems of size or proportion, but which might benefit from a re-think of the space and how it is to be used.
Small square rooms such as studios or a one bed roomed apartments could benefit if the room is high enough to build a platform, either for sleeping, reading or watching television. This can also change the character of a large lounge/dining room by adding the raised flooring making it look as though they are separate rooms giving it a more open feel. The under floor space can then be used as storage. All of these changes have been made without changing your structural walls
Colours… Generally speaking, lighter colours make a room look larger so to manipulate your sense of space use light hues from one colour family which will create an optical illusion by expanding the room. If a ceiling feels too low painting it white can give it the perception of height. This has the opposite effect when painted a darker colour draws a room in. A clever way to make a room seem wider is by putting a darker colour on the far wall. Similarly, vertical stripes on walls will immediately give the impression that the ceiling is higher, while horizontal stripes make a room seem wider.
Furniture… Our awareness of space changes seasonally. In the heat of summer, dark colours, heavy woods and heavy materials always draw immediate attention, and close a room in. People want to feel uplifted and cool in the Spanish summer months so choose a palette of whites, creams and light stone colours for walls, ceilings, floors and soft furnishings. So when choosing furniture choose clean-lined, low-fuss pieces with a minimalist style rather than the ornate. It’s also a good idea to choose furniture that has legs, rather than something that sits directly on the floor.
Lighting… While relying on a single light source hanging from the middle of the ceiling will make a room seem smaller, if you install several down lights instead, you’ll create lighting zones, which can create a sense of space. Any room will look larger if it’s well-lit, either by natural light or artificial lighting. Get rid of heavy draperies and open up the windows to let the light of the outdoors into the space. Add more lamps or install track lighting or recessed lighting.
Mirrors… By using mirrors you can create an elegant illusion of doubled space simply by propping the mirror against an empty wall. Place a mirror on an adjacent wall to an interesting picture or piece of artwork and the mirror will reflect the image and add a sense of space. Hang a decorative mirror near a window in a dark room. This will allow the light to reflect off the mirror creating more natural light in the room. To create the illusion of depth in a room, paint one
>> costa life 41
Tips… Do’s and Don’ts Do not purchase complete sets of furniture. Keep in mind that if you buy an all-inclusive matchy, matchy set, you will destroy your chances of showing your individuality and personality through your design. Do mix furniture styles and wood grains to help create an ambience. Now, don’t take this point too far over the edge and place a stainless steel dining chair with your Louie IX dining table, but don’t be afraid to go off the textbook and have some fun.
Don’t get stuck in Beige. Do add accent colors to your walls and furniture. Color will help add dimension, interest, richness, and life to your living space. Don’t cover book shelves and mantles with photos keep these to the bedroom areas or a lined gallery style along a private hallway. Do take the time to select elegant frames for selectively placed photos. A few framed photographs add a wonderful accent to any home wall in a dark, contrasting color to the other walls. Then hang a decorative mirror on the dark wall to create a sense of depth in the room. Group and hang several mirrors of assorted sizes and shapes for an attractive wall display. In addition, place mirrors so they will not cause unnecessary glare in a room. Mirrors can be unappealing if they are placed across from a window with a southern or western exposure.
Do not match fabrics. Consider complimenting colors. Unless you are designing a Holly Hobby theme room from the late eighties, do not match any fabrics... Do be eclectic. Show your individuality and have fun with your fabric choices.
Make your living space work for you.
‘‘I can recommend Paula Monaghan whole-heartedly. She and her team have always been very responsive, reliable and best of all, the furniture she has selected for my apartment, is nice, fits the space properly, and helps make my apartment more rentable. I will continue to use Paula’s services as I add additional furnishings, to keep the ‘‘look’’ consistent, but more importantly because of the quality work she and her team have provided.’’ Kevin Platz Cologne, Germany
>> costa HOMES
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costa HOMES >>
Unbeatable value 7 days a week Curtains bedding fabrics towels cushions throws blinds headboards tracks poles Mon - fri 10 - 7pm - Sat - sun 10 - 2pm A huge selection of ready to hang curtains - or if you prefer, take advantage of our make up service. Hundreds of rolls of designer fabrics. In house measuring - fitting - make up
STOP PRESS a bit of summer madnessEYELET CURTAINS
15 euros a pair !! A FANTASTIC RANGE OF DESIGNER CURTAINS LIMITED STOCK only
Tel 952 582 555 AVNDA. SANTA AMALIA 6, FUENGIROLA
costa life 47
>> costa HOMES
For all your insurance needs, do it the right way. Motor insurance for UK and Spanish plates, home and contents, health insurance, pet, travel and commercial insurance. Established on the coast for over 7 years thousands of satisfied customers Situated next to lidl supermarket in calahonda or arrange cover by calling 952 934 963 or go on line at www.rightwayinsurance.com. Right Way Insurance ……….. insuring you, your family and your belongings the right way
A .C.E. C ORTIN AS S.C. CURTAINS, BEDSPREADS, CUSHIONS, LOOSE COVERS, HEADBOARDS, PELMETS, SWAGS AND TAILS ALL MADE TO MEASURE.
Authentic, Old Farmhouse (Álora)
End terraced Town house (Casarabonela)
Finca w. building permission (Casarabonela)
We stock a wide range of poles and rails at reasonable prices
. . . . .
. . .
We offer a free measuring & fitting service. We can use your materials or pick out from our stock. Alterations & repairs undertaken. We have a range of readymade curtains and bedding available to order. We can give a full furnishing & interior design quotation if required.
A.C.E. Property Management & Maintenance will assist you in Electrical requirements, general painting. Woodwork and general property maintenance. We also make small items of hand crafted furniture.
“We Do It So You Don't Have To” Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday and evenings by appointment Unit 5 Centro Comercial, Las Terrazas De Mirafloresgolf, Calle Acuario Rivera Del Sol, Mijas Costa 29649 Tel 951 273 242 Fax 951 273 437 Mob 645 082 560 email: info@acecortinas.com 48 costa life
Built: 135 m² Land: 20.000 m² 3 bedrooms · 1 bathroom Restored with great care Pool · Own well · Nice views Ample kitchen + living room Storage room with 30 sqm Priced to sell · 275.000€ € Country Estate with "Cortijo" (Antequera / La Joya)
Built: 120 m² Land: 40 m² New construction in a very charming, rustic style with central heating · 2 beds. 2 baths · Close to forest Easy access + parking Roof terrace & Patio... 157.000 € €
Built: 50 m² (permission) Land: 11.500 m² Spectacular views / scenery 5 km from village · Water & Electricity · Partly constructed Private location · International neighbourhood BARGAIN…. 110.000 € € Built: 410 m² Land: 32,000 m² New construction · Prime Quality Under floor heating · 70 sqm living / dining room · Spacious beds, kitchen · Incomparable location & views · Pool 10mx6m Ample terraces… 1.500.000 €€
E
T US
A
Ref: 296
Cerros del Aguila
Villa
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495,000€ €
3 bed, 3 bath, 690m² plot, 160m² build, This is a very nice private villa, with a separate guest apartment, private pool, views, central heating and communal areas.
Ref: 292
Fuengirola
Apartment
-
Ref: 304
Elviria
Villa
550,000 € €
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SE
M
Ref: 309
Sierrezuela
Villa
465,000 €€
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4 bed, 4 bath, 550m² plot, 217m² build.
5 bed, 3 bath, 330m² plot. 290m² build,
Guest apartment, air conditioning, renovated with nice Views.
Own pool and garden, separate guest apartment, everything new, very stylish, car port, Great views, lots of starage.
199,000 €€
Ref: 276
Fuengirola
Penthouse - 320,000€ €
1 bed, 1 bath, 75m² build, 15m² terrace.
3 bed, 115m² build, 31 Terrace,
Walking distance to shops and beach, now complex with garage, pool, paddle, gardens.
Near beach, sea views, communal pool, parking commun, easy renting.
Ref: 305
-
El Chaparral
-
Good investment to reform
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489,000€ €
This villa is in the Hart of el Chaparral next to the golf course, the plot is 985m², the villa is 140m² with 3 bed and 2 bath. With possibilities to build a second floor.
Villa to reform 489,000€ €
Ref 280
Los Pacos
Atico - 310,000€ €
3 bed, 2 bath, 172m² Build, 40m² terrace, Garage, pool, gardens, sea views and mountains, 2x20m² terraces, close to schools, very nice complex.
Ref: 291
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Mijas Costa
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Atico
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290,000€ €
3 bed, 2 bath, 147m² build, 45m² terrace, Communal pool and gardens, tennis, close to beach, ideal for holiday renting. Nice views.
Ref: 297
Mijas-Costa
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Apartment - 210,000 €€
2 bed, 2 bath, 67m² build + 12m² Terrace. Close to the Sea, Furnished, Equipped Kitchen, Parking: Garage, Pool: Communal Pool, Garden: Community, Facing: South and West Views: Garden, Partial Sea, Pool. Features 24H Security System, Access to Beach, American Kitchen, Double Glazing, Easy Renting.
Ref: 295
Miraflores
Apartment
-
212,000 € €
3 bed, 2 bath, 105m² constr, 35m² terrace Communal pool, gated complex, pleasant views. Very fair price.
T&C * This offer only applies to direct clients, without intermediates.
Fantastic new villa in Alhaurín de la Torre with spectacular views!
€€ 595.000
Entrance hall with double doors that give access to the ample living room. Fire place and marble floors. Central airco. Fully equipped kitchen and utility room. Four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Private garden with swimming pool. Drive way that leads down to garage and storage room. Plot: 1000m2 - Build: 223m2. Ref.nr: 39524 2 bed 1 bath Build: 76m2 Terrace: 10m2 Marble floors Communal garden & pool Secured parking
3 bed 2 bath Build: 97m2 Terrace: 8m2 Marble floors Airco hot/cold Satellite Southwest facing terrace Close to beach
Ref. nr: 39344
Ref. nr: 39552
Lovely apartment in Urb. El Coto - Mijas Costa
€ € 215.000
Beautiful top floor apartment in Fuengirola
€ € 219.000
3 bed 2 bath Plot: 358m2 Build: 117m2 Fire place Roof terrace Sea views Easy parking
2 bed 2 bath Build: 106m2 Roof terrace: 133m2 Airco hot/cold Panoramic views Near golf & tennis Garage Storage
Ref.nr: 37094
Ref.nr: 32217
Beautiful one level villa in Urb. El Faro - Mijas Costa
€€ 380.000
Modern and spacious penthouse in Miraflores
€ 390.000 €
Fincas - Country Villas - Townhouses - Cortijos - Ruins - Plots 952 498 454 mobile: 609 454 409 email: enquiries@aloraproperties.com tel:
Plaza Fuente Arriba s/n, Alora
Alora Properties are delighted to offer for sale this large impressive villa set in a stunning location with open views to the mountain ranges of El Chorro. The villa enjoys privacy and excellent access but is within walking distance to the many amenities of Alora pueblo, a beautiful market town, only half an hour from the Costa del Sol and Malaga International Airport. An impressive drive-way leads to the main entranceway of the property. This quality built villa offers 315 m2 of living space distributed over two levels. The main entrance hall leads into a bright and spacious split level lounge and dining room. Features include a wood-burning stove and two sets of French windows leading out onto a glorious terrace. There is also a large kitchen with walk-in pantry and another equally spacious dining area. At ground level there are 3 bedrooms, one of them en-suite, a separate bathroom and a fully equipped laundry room. A stunning marble staircase leads to the upper level. Here a generous landing leads to 3 further double bedrooms, one being the luxurious master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, extensive fitted wardrobes and French windows which lead onto a large balcony. This room also benefits from double aspects to the surrounding countryside. One of the two further double bedrooms has en-suite facilities and a private south facing balcony. The house is set in a stunning 20,000 m2 (5 acre) plot with the magnificent backdrop of the protected El Hacho Mountain. There is a large formal garden with many sunny and shady entertaining areas, swimming pool with changing room/toilet facilities and BBQ area. There is also an outbuilding currently divided into 4 single garages. In addition to the formal garden there is also an extensive lemon/orange grove with separate access from the public road making it ideal for a number of uses including equestrian pursuits. The construction and finish of this villa is of a very high standard. There is full double glazing throughout with security shutters, walled secure entranceway, full air-conditioning, all mains services and satellite TV. This is a stunning property enjoying privacy yet having the benefits of closeness to town. It would be ideal as a large family home or suitable for conversion into a large rural tourism business.
Price: 875,000â‚Ź â‚Ź
Please contact Alora properties to arrange a viewing appointment.
check out our website for a large selection of properties
www.aloraproperties.com
>> costaLIFE
A Labour of Love Written by
Simon Hill
Nicotiana Sylvestris
Surviving the extremes of summer
T
hroughout the summer months of July and August and into September, there is little we inland gardeners can do except take it easy and enjoy the fruits of our labours during spring. Midday temperatures regularly exceed 35ยบ and dawn and dusk are the only times when the garden can be enjoyed in comfort without the constant need to mop one's brow. These are also the best times to attend to the chore of watering, which is so critical to the survival of one's favourite plants. Forgetting to water pots, even for a few hours, can lead to fatalities during these hot, dry days when plants have to tolerate extreme environmental stress. Put simply, it is the evaporation of water through the plant that keeps them cool. With no water, leaves wilt, overheat and
die. Another pitfall is the use of plastic pots, (black ones are the worst). When these are exposed to the sun, they allow root systems to cook, also with fatal results. Large, unglazed ceramic pots are best because they can hold plenty of water, are better insulators, and also allow their contents to cool by evaporation. Some people think they can get round the burden of watering by standing pots in water-filled saucers. For most plants this is also often fatal. In high temperatures, roots and microorganisms in the potting media rapidly use up the available oxygen, leading to toxic anaerobic conditions that quickly kill the roots, and then the whole plant. To avoid these events, a very well-drained potting medium is essential, and peat-based composts should be mixed with plenty of sharp grit. Even automatic irrigation systems don't let you off the hook; you need to be vigilant because malfunctions can be catastrophic. When I get thoroughly fed up, I make for the coast where it is a few degrees cooler in the sea breeze and where subtropical gardens flourish in the less extreme climate. The public can visit a number of wonderful gardens and there are some fine parks. One of my favourites is Paloma Park in Benalmadena Costa. This is a lovely large green space, simply but imaginatively laid out and planted, and provides a peaceful haven behind the noisy, traffic-ridden seafront. Hidden up the back, between the Public Library and a petrol station, is the most wonderful cactus garden, planted with a huge variety of cacti and succulents from all around the world. My only criticism is the absence of labels. If you are lucky you can get a list from the Library.
Paloma Park
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Gardens are not just to be enjoyed during the day. Many plants, especially climbers, are at their most beautiful during the evening. White flowers, unlike coloured ones, continue to be visible in the dark. One reason for this is that so many of these flowers depend on night-flying insects such as
costaLIFE >> flowers of this beautiful climber remain open during the day, its regal scent is strongest during the evening. As with so many scented plants, it is best planted in a sheltered spot where it can be enjoyed by those sitting nearby.
moths for pollination. Scent also plays an essential part in attracting pollinating insects to collect nectar. The night flowering shrub that many gardens are planted with, in the belief that it will keep mosquitoes at bay, is Dama de Noche (Lady of the night, Cestrum nocturnum). As the name shows, this shrub flowers at night, filling the air with a powerful, sweet scent. People either love or loath this perfume and it is no surprise to me that it called Lady of the Night! My personal dislike of this shrub results from it causing me unpleasant headaches. Of course the scent is there to seduce insects rather than humans and some people are adversely affected by it. To my mind, by far the most beautiful scents after dark are those of the Jasmines and similar climbing plants. There are many different Jasmines and they belong to the olive family (Oleaceae). The privets, better known further north, are other scented members of this family. The species of Jasmine we most commonly plant for their perfume originate in Asia. A less common but strongly scented species is Jasminum azoricum, native to Madeira. This climber is shrubby in appearance and evergreen, tolerant of light frost, and appreciates regular clipping to keep a good shape and also to extend its flowering period (March to late autumn). Although the flowers are rarely pollinated here, olive-like fruits are sometimes formed. So many scented climbers are called Jasmines but, in fact, are not. This confusion is not helped by the many different names given them in both Spanish and English. The Madagascar Jasmine (Stephanotis floribunda) is not a true jasmine, belonging to the same family as Oleander (Apocynaceae). A close look at the flowers shows this. Although the
By late afternoon, the 'Four o'clock' plant (Mirabilis jalapa, Nyctaginaceae) opens its flowers of various colours and gives off a subtle scent not unlike jasmine. These plants are herbaceous and die back to a tuber underground until spring. Seed is freely selfsown and without a regular check can become invasive. My preference is the white variety, which is easily seen in the dark. Of the potato family (Solonacea) scented white Nicotiana sylvestris also releases its perfume in a similar way and is insignificant to the eye during the day. Nicotianas are easily grown N. Glauca and, given water and some shade, will live happily here although they are rarely seen except in the care of keen gardeners. Another Nicotiana, tree tobacco (N. glauca) an invader from South America, is naturalised on roadsides but is of little garden value. A number of people have recently reported to me that fruit trees in their gardens have suddenly died. These turn out to be stone fruits, such as plums, peaches, nectarines or apricots. Our neighbour has plum tree that has taken two years to die, but our own and another neighbour's large apricot trees have suddenly died this spring with no obvious disease symptoms. Another acquaintance paid good money to plant a large, container-grown fruiting peach tree; this has died suddenly. On closer examination, affected trees usually have a gummy exudation on their twigs and branches and their wood shows brown streaks and stains. These symptoms are consistent with a known bacterial disease of stone fruits, caused by a pseudomonad. This needs confirming by a professional plant pathologist. This disease is usually fatal and there is no cure. The disease spreads easily to uninfected trees by insects, rain splash and pruning tools. Infected trees should be cut down and burned. There are many diseases that affect trees and plants in Mediterranean gardens. Luckily most are not fatal and as serious as the example above, and can be controlled with chemicals if you have to. When in doubt you should always seek advice. Who to ask? That's not always clear. See if your local garden centre can help (only the good ones seem to employ competent staff). You may need to refer to a local farmer's cooperative or to your town hall for advice on access to the appropriate plant pathology adviser. Simon Hill can be contacted for advice and queries: FINCAROSABLANCA@telefonica.net
Jasminum
Cestrum Noctunum
Mirabilis Jalapa
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Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Autumn sale now on save up to 20% on all orders placed in September For your free no obligation quotation call now on PHONE - 952 830 503 E-MAIL - info@eliteglasscurtains.com WEB - www.eliteglasscurtains.com ELITE GLASS CURTAINS S.L., POLIGONO ELVIRIA 26, ELVIRIA 29600
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Obtaining a Mortgage In Spain W
ho offers mortgages?
a margin over EURIBOR generally EURIBOR +0.75% to 1.5% but individual circumstances can dictate higher or lower rates. Fixed rate mortgages are available at slightly higher interest rates. Some lenders offer a lower Start up interest rates for the first year or part interest only mortgages, ideally suited for funding new construction.
Mortgages are available from most High street Spanish banks and saving banks[Caja] and International lenders in Gibraltar. Most Developers will have a loan scheme in place on ‘off-plan’ purchases, but you need to be aware that these are only available on completion and will not cover any stage payments i.e. normally 30% deposit. Resale properties are also sometimes offered for sale with a mortgage in place that can be easily transferred.
How often will interest rates be reviewed? Usually once a year, fixed rate mortgages are available at higher interest rates.
What is the maximum repayment period?
What is the cost of arranging a mortgage?
Mostly commonly, 15 or 20 years, but up to 35 years can be arranged.
The cost of a Spanish mortgage varies greatly from lender to lender and also from broker to broker. Generally you should allow between 23% of the purchase price of the property.
What information will the bank require:
Why is it so expensive? The up-front costs on a Spanish loan are much higher than in the UK for a number of reasons. Firstly the Bank itself will charge an arrangement fee ranging from .75% - 2% of the loan depending on the loan to value and the complexity. The higher fees are generally charged for ‘non-status’ lending or bridging finance and for a normal mortgage you should not pay more than 1.25% There is also mortgage tax of 1% of the value of the loan and 1% of the interest due to be accrued over the term of the loan e.g. on a loan of €100,000 over 25 years at 3.5% the total interest payable is approx. €50,990 making the tax payable €1000 + €509.90 As a Spanish mortgage is attached to the property and not the owner it has its own title deed. You will have to pay for the deed to be produced and also land registry and notary fees. The cost of this varies from area to area and on the value of the property. Valuation fees vary depending on the value of the property and the valuation company but start at about €200 for a small apartment. Lastly you have the services of a mortgage broker and again this can vary tremendously. Some charge nothing and just rely on the commission the banks pay them whilst others charge up to 1.5% of the loan. It is recommended that a broker is used if income is hard to prove as they will know which lenders are the most flexible and can save valuable time. The break-even point for a Spanish loan as opposed to a UK loan or remortgage is approximately 5 years, so if you are considering paying the loan off in full before that time you need to think long and hard about which way to proceed as it may be cheaper to raise the funds at home.
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How much can I borrow? As general guide a non resident will be able to borrow 70%-80% of the valuation of a property, whilst residents can borrow up to 100% of the valuation. The key to obtaining the maximum mortgage offer is in achieving the maximum valuation, which is the job of the Tasador [valuer]. Most Banks will accept valuations from 1 or 2 Tasadors whilst a few employ their own. Your income is the other determining factor and the monthly repayments have to be covered by up to 40% of your NET salary, but most banks will only accept 35% Land purchase is limited to 60% of valuation by most lenders, as is lending on ‘Finca Rustica’ property. If you already own land and want to build then construction loans are an option. The bank will lend up to 70% of the projected completed value which in most cases will be more than enough to cover 100% of the build cost.
Which Currency should I borrow in? Mortgages are available in most major currencies. You should be aware that if you borrow in a currency that does not have a fixed value against the euro, currency fluctuations could make your borrowing more expensive or less expensive depending on whether your chosen currency weakens or strengthens against the euro.
What Interest rate will I pay? Interest rates again will depend on the currency you choose to borrow. Interest rates for mortgages in euros are based on the European Inter Bank Overnight Rate, or EURIBOR for short, which has largely takeover from the older MIBOR. The lenders rate will be
Banks vary in the amount of information that they require, but in general the more you can provide the easier the loan is to procure. Ideally the following would be good
If you are employed: Last 3 wage /salary slips. Latest P60. Last 6 months bank statements. Reference letter from your employer confirming date of employment, proof of income and position and prospects within the company Bank reference (The lender may have to apply for this themselves depending on who you bank with) Some lenders require an experion credit check to be carried out Copy of passport/residencia.
If you are self employed: Last 2 years tax returns. Copies of accounts for the last 2/3 years Chartered accountants copy report, confirming your annual personal drawings from the company Copy of your passport/residencia 6 months personal bank statements Bank reference letter
You will also need: In relation to a specific property, the nota simple from the property registry, offer letter or sales purchase contract. If you are applying for a construction loan then you must provide the Escritura for the land. The plans stamped by the College of Architects and a 10 year building guarantee. An NIE number from the local police station, which you or your lawyer can arrange. You will also need to open a Spanish bank account and it is advisable to use the same bank as your mortgage is with.
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH MACP-408 Alhaurin El Grande
995,000€ €
A unique architect designed 5 bedroom luxury villas on front line of Alhaurin Golf. If you want the "wow" factor then this property has it, this is the largest villa on the golf complex and is situated in a gated private enclave of only 4 villas. From the moment you enter its spacious entrance hall with its stunning views across the golf course and the surrounding mountains you know that this is a special property. This villa has 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 WC's, Beautiful designer kitchen, black marble worktops, double garage and private automatic entrance gates offering a high level of security. Large private pool 10 x 4 with roman end tiled in a beautiful aquamarine which mirrors the colour of the nearby lakes, 144 sq metres of terrace perfect for outside entertaining. Large Royal Astro Turf lawn gives all the luxury and benefit of a manicured lawn with out all the hard work! Plus a variety of fruit trees and shrubs. Stunning views, fabulous location yet only 15 to 20 minutes from Malaga airport, Puerto Banus, Marbella and the beach.
MACP-348 Alhaurin El Grande
410,000€ €
Build 130m2, Plot 4000m2, Beds 3, Baths 2. Build 130m2 plus outbuildings, Plot 4,000m2, Beds 3, and Baths 2 A fantastic property in a great location, 5 minutes from Alhaurin town and in a peaceful part of the country. There is a lovely swimming pool area and many outbuildings to convert. This property is very Spanish and has so much potential. A great buy.
MATH-395 Coin
SOLE AGENCY
280,000€ €
Build 106.33, Plot 156.63, Beds 5/6, Baths 2/half This fantastic spacious town house on a lovely urbanisation with a pleasant community swimming pool and centre. There is a small front garden, a balcony and a good size roof terrace with ample storage space. This property is within walking distance to all amenities and 5 minutes drive to La Trocha shopping centre. If you enjoy living within a Spanish community with lovely neighbours then this property is perfect.
MACR-303 Alhaurin el Grande
699,000€ €
An exquisite equestrian property new on the market. Superb main house plus separate guest/grooms house. Stables, tack room, sand exercise area, hay barn and big exercise area. Both house are finished to very high standard with all modern amenities. 24 sq m wooden structure currently in use as office. Long paved drive, pool etc. A must to view.
MALV-355 Alhaurin El Grande
699,500€ €
A wonderful private villa in a prestigious area with spectacular views. This property has been finished to very high standards, is light and airy and the gardens are perfectly landscaped and charming. The villa has air-conditioning central heating and everything you need for a warm home.3 beds all en-suite, fitted kitchen plus utility room 150 sq m build area.
MARP-371 Alhaurin El Grande - Rural
595,000€ €
MACP-394 SOLE AGENCY Alhaurin el Grande
359,000€ €
Build 120, possible to build up another level, Plot 2,500m2, Beds 3, Baths, 2 A wonderful country house very close to the town with fantastic access. This property is in a very peaceful location with absolutely lovely views. There is the added bonus of doubling the size of this property by building up another level making the property 240m2. The garden is very long and pretty with a nice terrace area. A great property in a fantastic sought after location.
MACP-407 Coin
285,000€ €
Beautiful 4/5 bed plus 2 bathrooms, lounge, dining room 220 Sq m build on 6000 sq m plot. Ideal situation in highly sought after part of Alhaurin El Grande. Good access, 20 min walk to town. Ideal property placement high up enough to enjoy summer breezes whilst not so high that it will suffer from cold in winter. Well laid gardens and superb kidney shaped pool. Finally absolutely superb views. Priced realistically to sell, a must to add to your viewing list.
Build: 110m2, Plot: 500m2, Beds: 3, Baths: 2 A marvellous property situated at the top end of a select urbanization with wonderful views. All the properties here are very different, so you can be sure that what you are buying is very unique. This property is very private with no other houses at one side and behind it, and looking down over Coin. There is the possibility to increase the size of the house and also plenty of scope for a swimming pool. The main house has two bedrooms and there is a separate self contained studio for guests, which again can be increased in size by joining onto the garage. A fantastic property full of opportunity.
MAVL-306 Alhaurin el Grande
MACP-266 Alhaurin De La Torre
795,000€ €
Sought after part of Alhaurin, charming property. Main house plus additional guest house in the grounds. 4 bedrooms, 2 bath, fitted kitchen, private pool. Second house very private own pool, 1 bed, bath, American kitchen, lounge. Air con, Sat TV, terraces, BBQ areas. All svcs. Fabulous views and good access via tarmac road.
1,248,000€ €
There are three properties on this flat, landscaped plot. Main house 5 beds (one with a huge balcony and views of the bay of Malaga), 2 bath, large covered terrace overlooking the pool and garden. 2nd house 3 beds, sitting room, dining area. Guest house 1 bed, sitting room, bathroom and kitchenette.
MALV-363 Coin - Rural
699,000€ €
Beds 4/5, Baths 3, Build approx 300 m2, Plot 3500 m2. Fabulous country location midway between Coin and Monda. Exceptionally spacious and airy property that has been maintained by current owners to a very high standard. Recently fitted luxury kitchen, modern appliances. Beautiful staircase and entrance hall, large bedrooms with very generous lounge and dining area. Good access to property. Mains electric and water. Gas central heating, utility room and larder.
MALV-362 Alhaurin El Grande
775,000€ €
Just on the market a spectacular property totally secluded in tranquil setting, BBQ area, outside kitchen with well tended gardens. The property comprises of 4 bedrooms, lounge, sitting room and a dining room, kitchen, 2 bathrooms. 2 self contained guest apartments. Ample parking and a garage. Superb swimming pool. 250 sq m build in 7500 sq m plot.
MALV-209 Alhaurin/Mijas
2,650,000 € €
Exclusive villa based on 200 year old farmhouse site. 5 bedrooms all en-suite, luxury kitchen, laundry room, grand dining room, heated pool and Jacuzzi, pool bar, changing rooms. Separate 2 bed apartment with provision for an additional 2 bed bungalow. Stable block the list is endless. No expense has been spared on this superb property. Contact us or look on website for full details.
MACP-417 420,000€ € Alhaurin El Grande SOLE AGENCY AND NEW ON MARKET
MACP-396 Cartama
525,000€ €
Well presented country Finca with a fabulous 12 x 5 metre pool complete with changing rooms, showers etc. Main property comprises 3 bedrooms, living room with log burner. Attached is a well presented single bedroom self contained guest apartment. Property in need of some modernisation to bring it up to its full potential.
Build 250m2, Plot 6000m2, Beds 7, Baths 4 Superb four bedroom country house with extra three bedroom property included on the same plot. Stables and a training ring, providing accommodation for horses with 3,500m2 of excellent flat land including fruit trees (oranges, tangerines, figs, apples, etc). The land is fully fenced throughout. The surrounding area is fantastic for pony trekking. Both houses are located in an idyllic, peaceful valley with breathtaking views of the mountains. Living downstairs is an enormous garage with room for 2-3 cars (this could also be converted into extra living quarters. Both properties have well and town water with full irrigation. Two great houses on one plot.
MACP-399 Alhaurin el Grande
MACR-384 Alhaurin El Grande
378,000€ €
995,000€ €
Plot 1,743m2, Build 80m2 permission to build another 360m2. An urban plot of 1.743 m2 in a sought after area. This plot has so much potential and is completely fenced and gated. There is a small house of 80 m2 (guest house), a large pool (9, 5 x 6, 5 m), 220m2 of terraces and you can still build another 360m2 villa. Absolutely spectacular views of the countryside and valley, and no other properties can be built in front, that could affect this great backdrop.
Build 503m2, plot 6,322m2, Beds 6, Baths 4 A splendid cortijo built 200 years ago. There are not many properties of this style and condition around, it is truly spectacular. There are outbuilding for guests and studio or more accommodation separated from the main residence. The grounds are beautiful, very mature and well maintained with a beautiful orchard. Viewing highly recommended.
MACP-376 Alhaurin/Cartama
MACP-410 Alhaurin El Grande
340,000€ €
Build 89, Plot 2,500m2, Beds 2, could be 3, Baths 1 Beautiful 2 bedroom country Finca with good size swimming pool. Set in a manageable 2500 sq m plot this property is well placed for easy access to Cartama Pueblo just a few minutes away and Malaga and its airport within 15 to 20 mins drive. Build size is 89 sq m, fitted kitchen, air con both hot and cold and open fireplace. Lots of fruit trees and shrubs, specimen Mulberry tree overhangs patio with masses of luscious fruit perfect area for that evening gin and tonic!
MALV 369 Alhaurin El Grande
525,000 €€
A lovely property NEW ON THE MARKET . This villa is in a sought after area, and in immaculate condition. Spectacular views from the garden and pool area. The house has been finished to very high standards and has the added bonus of a conservatory/office at the front and another dining room/conservatory overlooking the pool . This Property will sell fast, viewing highly recommended.
551,000€ €
Build: 216m2, Plot: 10,000m2, Beds: 3, Baths: 2 Sought after area. If its amazing views and privacy that sells a property to you then this one is just right for you. With no other property over looking, you can enjoy this delightful villa and all it has to offer with pleasure. The villa itself is lovely throughout and finished to a high standard with marble floors, neutral decor throughout and pre-installed for hot and cold air conditioning. There is the possibility to extend this property by another 30m2 of living space and a huge area to the rear for a garage and another area of 2000m2 of flat land for a casita/workshop or for horses. You will find it very difficult to beat the views from this property.
MAVH-378 Alhaurin El Grande
249,500€ €
A really great corner plot town house in one of the best parts of the town. This property is very spacious and reformed to a high standard and decorated with a modern touch. Although the house has 3 bedrooms it could quite easily be 4, as the vendors have a large study on the lower level. This property is very unusual and is full of character.
MACP-401 A perfect project or investment 299,000€ € Alhaurin El Grande/Coin Build 138m2, Plot 600 Beds 2. could be more, Baths 1 large, An urban property in the country, situated between Coin and Alhaurin el Grande. The perfect house has so much potential to increase to a big family home. There is the option to turn the many rooms, garage and out buildings into additional living space as well building up another level, doubling the size. The plot is fenced, flat, private and big enough for a swimming pool. A perfect project or investment.
MACP-333 Coin
299,000€ €
Finca, Good Position, Fitted Kitchen, Carport, Garden: Private, Facing south views of Mountains, Air conditioning Hot/Cold, Built to High Standards, Charming Property, Close to all Amenities, Condition - Good, Fireplace, Fitted Kitchen, Fitted Wardrobes, Good Rental Potential, Independent Studio, Living room with fireplace, Quality Residence, Sought After Area.
MACP-392 Coin
950,000€ €
Build 300m2, Plot 28,000m2 Beds 6 Baths 3 Large Equestrian property in a very private tranquil setting. Charming property situated only twenty minutes drive to the coast and offering ample country kitchen, with a dining area opening on to beautiful terraces. The land is planted with fruit trees, mainly avocados and there is a one bedroom guest apartment at the bottom of the Finca. There are stables, grazing areas and a swimming pool. The property is in very good condition and offers great rental potential. The country kitchen, with dining area opening on to beautiful terraces and stunning terraces.
MAAP-406 Alhaurin El Grande SOLE AGENCY NEW ON MARKET
360,000€ €
Unique apartment front line golf at Alhaurin Golf. This beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom luxury apartment offers the unusual feature of the benefits of outdoor living and outdoor space whilst having all the convenience of an apartment. This property has a massive 160 sq m roof terrace with both front line golf views and front line to the beautiful Mijas forest area. This gives room for a hot tub or splash pool extensive dining area whilst still giving a large amount of room to spare. This is a must to view as no property description can do it credit. Community gardens and pools.
MACP-390 SOLE AGENCY Alhaurin El Grande
749,000€ €
Build 242, Plot 1,925 Beds 5/6, Baths 4 Rarely is a property of this quality and location on the market. Very good sized country house in superb location backing straight on the Sierra de Mijas forest area. Perfect for dog walks etc onto mountains. This property has very good sized rooms and 4 bedrooms in main part. Across the courtyard is a completely self contained bedroom with en suite facilities; attached to this is bedroom 6 currently used as study but easily adaptable to form a sitting room and creating a self contained guest apartment. Beautiful gardens, wonderful pool/bar area in a quiet and lovely location with superb views.
MACP-385
790,000€ €
Superbly finished country property that has recently been totally reformed. All rooms completely redecorated, tiled etc to a very high standard. This a 4 bedroom property with very unique features. Each bedroom if you so wished could be separate from the main part of house or all used as very spacious family home. This is no square box - it is a property with masses of character with lots of unexpected nooks and crannies. Pool, terraces, bank valuation higher than selling price.
MAAP-375 Alhaurin
389,000€ €
MARP-372 Coin
265,000€ €
Newly built villa in the rural part of Coin. Many great features wooden beamed ceiling, modern top class fitted kitchen includes all appliances. Fully fenced, landscaped gardens, easy maintenance. Bargain property existing owner needs to move back to UK so priced to sell. A lovely property, with beautiful views and great swimming pool area. Great value for money, must be seen.
MACP-411 Alhaurin El Grande
577,500€ €
Build: 150m2, Plot 5,300m2, Beds: 3, Baths 3 Sought after area 3 minutes drive into town. An exquisite country property with lovely well maintained ground and a separate orchard. Every room in this house is tastefully designed with a warm homely feel that really makes this house special. The kitchen and bathrooms are well designed and are very high quality. Outside we have a delightful swimming pool with a nice little cocktail area; there is also a good size summer kitchen, toilet and shower. The garden is all totally useable being flat and on three levels, it is landscaped and has many mature fruit trees. A wonderful country property in a peaceful area that you can move straight in and enjoy.
MACP 360
Price on Application
A fantastic penthouse in the best part of Alhaurin with spectacular views. The property is situated looking over the swimming pool, charming gardens, golf course and country side. The penthouse is of a very high standard, extremely spacious with loads of light. The kitchen has a fantastic breakfast area with ceiling to floor windows, a great place to start the day. The lounge is a comfortable room with a fireplace in the centre and big patio doors leading out to one of the terraces.
A Rustic style dwelling, but with all up to date facilities; built in the year 2000 using the finest materials and quality craftsmanship. There are two (heated) swimming pools (joined by a water cascade), one of which is an infinity pool; Extensive terraces and decking, outside summer kitchen and barbeque area. "Having probably one of the finest panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the hills of Mijas and Marbella", on the Costa del Sol South facing, uninterrupted 180-degree sea views to the front and stunning country views to the sides and rear.
MACP-416 Alhaurin El Grande
MACP-383 Alhaurin El Grande
495,000€ €
Build: 195m2, Plot: 3000m2, Beds: 5, Baths: 3 A fine country property. If you enjoy the beautiful peace and quite of the Spanish countryside then STOP LOOKING this has just that. A large property on one level with a huge entertaining kitchen which leads out onto the terrace that over looks the swimming pool. What make this property special is its privacy, lovely views and gorgeous out side space. There are good size outbuildings which can be converted into guest accommodation. A superb property.
649,000€ €
A wonderful property in a great location within walking distance to the main town. This property created over two levels is superbly designed throughout and very spacious. Set in a tranquil location with spectacular views and landscaped gardens - an enchanting Villa. A must to add to your viewing list.
MACP-206 Alhaurin El Grande
270,000€ €
A beautiful light and spacious semi-detached house. Stands alone and has the feeling of a detached property, as it is only attached to it's neighbours by the garage. On entering there is a lovely large reception area, which leads off to the lounge, Kitchen, study and courtyard. Going up the grand stairs to the bedrooms, there is a huge landing that leads off to all the double bedrooms. All the room have telephone/internet connection, balconies. En-suite master bedroom with private terrace.
MACP-409 Alhaurin El Grande
615,000€ €
MACP-331 Alhaurin El Grande
1,195,000€ €
Build: 260m2, Plot: 10,000m2, Beds: 4, Baths: 4 A magnificent country property with breathtaking views. This villa is in an excellent location with a very good tarmac access and close to all amenities. The 2000m2 of the plot is beautifully level and the remaining 8000m2 is perfectly prepared in levels for landscaping. The villa is extremely roomy and airy with ideal storage throughout. All the rooms in this property are charismatic with big windows, pre-installed for hot and cold air-conditioning and there is a log burner in the lounge. As well all this there is subtle space for an office if required. Next to the pool is a summer kitchen with BBQ, sink and work surfaces. Beyond doubt a superb property.
A superb property in a tranquil location, yet only a short distance from Alhaurin and only 15 minutes from Malaga airport. The property is set in 12000 sq metre gardens and fruit orchards, large enough to ensure privacy but not so much that all your time will be spent in upkeep! This is the ideal country residence, a beautiful main house but with a guest cottage as well.
MACP-400 Alhaurin El Grande
425,000€ €
Build 135m2, Plot 2,750m2, Bed 3/4 or study, Baths 3 A lovely modern country property, only 5 minutes from Lauro golf and 5 minutes drives to Alhaurin el Grande town. This house is very spacious, with a great out side private pool that looks over the garden with mature trees and pleasant views. The villa is fully fenced, electric gates and in a peaceful location. Great value for money.
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Costa Business Advice … Brought to you by David Fairweather from Bars in Spain SL
Why Are So Many British Owned Businesses Struggling in Spain?
A
ugust is a strange month in Spain, for a start if you want to get things done, contact people or progress business issues it seems doubly difficult than it is the rest of the year, and as we all know doing business in Spain is not always easy the rest of the year either! But in August it seems the Mañana syndrome slows down even more, much like a 45rpm record being played at 33rpm (for those that can remember vinyl)! Then there is the extreme heat and increased humidity that makes many of us want to stay in our air conditioned environments, be they home, car or office, and I have spoken to many people recently who are feeling tired and jaded and in need of a holiday. Perhaps it’s watching all those tourists enjoying themselves! Many ex-pat business people here in Spain seem to be finding business quite a struggle at the moment, even those that have been successful in the UK. So why is this the case? Some of my conclusions are as follows: Most of us aim our marketing and sales campaigns at the ex-pat community. This is largely due to two things, one that the level of Spanish language spoken within the ex-pat community is at best quite poor and secondly that in general most non Spanish businesses don't really understand how to successfully sell to the Spanish community, so generally don’t bother. It is easy to overestimate the size and spend of the ex-pat community, firstly due to the fact that although statistics show that there will be over a million Brits living in Spain by the end of this year, this includes a fair percentage of retirees, children under working age and adults employed by Spanish Companies. There is also a large population of Bar and Restaurant owners (long may they prosper) who have limited requirements for business products and services other than food and drink supplies. There are many working in the construction industry and in real estate, again with limited or defined needs for external business products and services. So in summary we are setting up businesses here and trying to market and sell into a very limited community which is largely made up of small businesses with limited requirements and budgets, which varies dramatically to the corporate world that many of us were accustomed to in the UK. So what we need to consider as business people is the need for business analysis and within that overall process look at the following issues:
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What does my company do? Who are my potential customers? How can I get them to buy my products or services? I talk to many people who have set up or bought businesses here in Spain without validating a genuine need for their products or services. This is similar to buying the food and drinks for a party without knowing how many guests there will be! We really should research our target market to get a good idea of how viable our products and services are before we spend large amounts of money, otherwise we are effectively gambling with our money and a day at the races may in fact be more enjoyable, less time consuming and at least you know the odds in advance! However we need to try to look at the community as a whole including the Spanish, after all we are living in Spain and it may not be as hard as you think to get some business from the Spanish community if you have competitive products or services and with a little translation work with your marketing and sales materials. Another issue that is often overlooked here in Spain is Training. So many times I see people with poor sales skills due to the fact that they have not been trained properly. This is a particular soap box subject of mine (as my staff will tell you) as I believe that becoming a good salesperson takes time and a high degree of training just as it does to become a good lawyer, doctor or accountant. One of our company policies is: ‘‘To make sure that our people have the skills they need to do the job before they need to do it.’’ How many times have you been in a shop, a bar or restaurant in Spain where the service and sales skills were virtually non-existent? It’s a fact that training breeds confidence and confidence breeds success, plus trained staff are usually happier staff and happier staff stay longer, create a better impression of your business to the outside world and help generate more business for you! I see so many companies here employing people and expecting them to know exactly what to do and how to do it and then wondering why they are not achieving the desired results, letting them go when they don’t succeed and then recruiting new people, and so the cycle continues.
Another key factor is of course the property market. The owner of a large real estate company said to me recently that six years ago you could put monkeys into estate agencies and they would sell property! We all know that this is not the case now and we are seeing real estate offices closing and companies collapsing every week mainly due to the fact that these companies have never known anything other than a buoyant market. For much of the past twenty years anyone could come to Spain and set up a real estate agency and sell property and to some degree this is still true, the difference is.....now it’s not easy! In a way the situation is similar to the UK (and worldwide) recession of the early nineties and in financial institutions where the management teams in businesses were only used to working in a ‘‘Bull’’ market (where they needed to be ‘‘reactive’’ to sales) and then along comes a ‘‘Bear’’ market (where they need to be more ‘‘proactive’’ toward sales) and businesses don't know how to deal with it. This was a period where layers of middle and senior management were shed from companies, they became leaner and meaner with tighter controls on spending and to some degree where only the fittest survived. This is I believe where we are now in regard to the property market in Spain and particularly the Costa del Sol. Back to Business Basics! In conclusion then...... we have to go back to business basics, make sure that we research and validate the potential for our business, create a sound business plan, train our people properly and be proactive in our marketing and sales campaigns whilst keeping tight controls on the finances. As the saying goes ‘‘no one ever said it was gong to be easy’’, but I don't think many ex-pats here in Spain expected it to be as difficult as they are currently finding it to make a living from a business in Spain. If you are finding business difficult here in Spain we have business specialists with several years management consultancy and business development experience, so we may be able to help you! Just call 952 499 400 for a free consultation and ask for the ‘‘Costa Business Advice’’ group. David Fairweather is co-founder of Bars in Spain SL, a Franchised Real Estate Network operating throughout Spain, offering business advice & information for anyone considering starting or purchasing any type of business or property in Spain. To find out more call 952 499 400 or visit www.barsinspain.com
It’s a Summer Finca Fiesta!!
REF DPSF-089 Two delightful houses on a landscaped plot of 3,000m2. Superb value for money. Separate entrances leading to house 1 with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, fully fitted kitchen, spacious lounge/Diner and minstrel gallery, house 2 has lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, bathroom and two spacious double bedrooms with patio doors. Private swimming pool, plenty of terraces, BBQ, and water feature, immaculate and first class -
DPSA-073 Luxury 2 bed 2 bath 90m2 apartment in the popular Alhaurín Golf Complex set in landscaped gardens with a beautiful pool area. H/C air con throughout, Marble flooring, Fab views. MASSIVE REDUCTION 179,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
430,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
559,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF-292 Delightful, new listing country property in Alhaurin with three beds and two baths (one ensuite). Large lounge with patio access to covered terrace and private swimming pool. Fully fitted kitchen and in beautiful condition.The property has BBQ, parking and is fenced and gated in a lovely area of Alhaurin
REF DPSF 263 Excellent property, this renovated farmhouse has history, charm and character, 360 degree views with five bedrooms, three bathrooms and situated just outside Coin in the country with good access to Marbella and the coast. Boasting six terraces, Ponds, private infinity swimming pool, two self contained apartments, this totally unique property must be seen and has even more potential. 240m2 build on an 8,000m2 plot. Offered at -
399,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
630,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF 288 Spacious, well presented finca of 200m2 situated in a quiet location yet close to Coin town centre. Accomodation comprising large lounge/diner, fully fitted kitchen, central day room, three double bedrooms and two bathrooms. Outside has two large terraces, swimming pool, gardens, two large garages with workshop & utility room with potential for conversion into guest accommodation subject to permissions all set on a 10,000m2 plot. Lovely family home. 499,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSV-290 Impressive, large family home situated on a quiet urbanization. 320m2 total build on a generous 1500m2 plot offering six good sized bedrooms and three bathrooms in the main house and a seperate 1bed 1 bath guest casita. Spacious and flexible family accommodation at a hugely reduced price.
REF DPSF-294 Beautiful and well presented Finca situated in Alhaurin el Grande, surrounded by Olive and Citrus groves. The property has three beds and two and a half bathrooms, a large Salon with beamed ceilings, dining area and fitted kitchen. Beautiful gardens surround the property and you have a seperate rustic casita in the grounds and private swimming pool. The plot is 10,000 m2 and the build 160m2 plus casita.
REF DPSF 156 Large new finca situated just outside Alhaurin el Grande comprising very good sized lounge/diner, fitted kitchen with breakfast bar, 2 large double bedrooms (master ensuite) and family bathroom on ground floor with 2 further bedrooms on first floor. The house has a large arched covered front terrace leading to swimming pool & BBQ area. Large storage room and gym room which could be converted to a studio apartment. The property is fenced and has electic gates with a sweeping drive. 493,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
559,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF-279 Good sized Finca of 140m2 on a 2500m2 flat plot of land in a great area. 4 bedrooms and three bathrooms (1 ensuite) spacious Salon (30m2), fitted kitchen and a large roof terrace suitable for extending the accommodation. Outside Mature palms and shrubs and a private 10x5 swimming pool with large sun terraces, excellent condition and great value for money. Reduced by 50,000€ € to -
599,999€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF 280 Double delight. Two houses, 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms.Excellent well presented property at present operated as Bed and Breakfast. 180M2 main house with large Salon, Dining room, Kitchen and Five large bedrooms all with ensuite and private terraces. Aircon and Sat TV. A separate 60m2 casita offers owners accom. with one bedroom, one bathroom, salon and kitchen. 3000m2 grounds are walled, private and well laid out with delightful pool area, sun terraces and a feature jacuzzi set in the terraces, fantastic opportunity 535,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF 254 Delightful country property of 190m2 with extensive landscaped grounds of 5,500m2 situated in Alhaurin el Grande area. Accommodation comprising ´L´ shaped lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, utility & storage area, 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, spiral staircase to first floor. Outside has many areas of interest including a delightful pool area and dining areas for outdoor living. A row of outbuildings are ideal for conversion to different uses subject to permissions. 495,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF 711 Fantastic Cortijo, a hidden gem in Alhaurin, only 2 minutes from Golf. 2 houses both immaculate, tranquil courtyard, large freeform swimming pool, superb gardens all on a 15,500 plot of land with superb views. Total 7 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, WOW factor in abundance and 5 minutes from town. A really special property, tastefully modernised to incorporate the original charm with modern facilities. Is this your dream at only 1,400,000€ € . WHY PAY MORE?
Written by
Peter Harrison
A CARROT FOR NEDDIE f you pick up a postcard from the early part of the last century or Victorian times you will surely see a picture of a donkey on most of them. Donkey rides for children on the beach, donkeys to transport corpulent ladies to take the waters, donkeys to deliver all manner of goods. In major cities 'milch asses' made a daily round of smart residential areas to be milked in the street for children of prosperous families.
I
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In Spain some 40 years ago there were over 200,000 donkeys and you had to drive with care to avoid them. In AlhaurĂn el Grande a donkey and its driver used to deliver bread to the Torres de Fahala area until 20 years ago. I recall, during my first visit to Alora in 1990, proceeding slowly down the street behind a chain of donkeys with panniers of olives on their backs.
costaSTUFF >> Mechanisation has brought about a big change. Maybe it is progress! I suppose it is, but there is more colour to a scene which has a donkey in it rather than an Opel van. The pace of life nowadays demands a mode of transport which is faster and more efficient, even if it does increase pollution. We still see donkeys in our area of El Chorro and they are used for a variety of tasks from ploughing to transporting goods and farmers to market. Regrettably the number of donkeys in the whole of Spain has declined to less than 20,000 now and will decline further. The boy on a moped now is the farmer of tomorrow. Can he really forego his noisy machine and enjoy a more sedate form of transport? In many Spanish towns and villages the highlight of Semana Santa is the re-enactment of Christ's entry into Jerusalem and heading the procession is a donkey. It is a truly colourful scene. In the late 1800s there were about 50 million donkeys worldwide. In Europe they worked in mines (thankfully that has died out), pulled lawn mowers, worked on farms; in Ireland they transported peat from bogs and carried flax for linen. Donkeys still play a prominent role in third world countries although in a recent visit to Egypt I noticed a huge decline from the number that I saw when I was there several years ago. With their mobility over rough terrain they exceed that of the hardiest 4x4 vehicle. The claim in the Land Rover advertisement that it is "the best 4x4 by far" simply isn't true. The donkey has a climbing power almost beyond belief. When filming The Guns of Navarone the film crew found that the best way of transporting heavy equipment up steep mountain tracks was by donkey. In wartime donkeys were used extensively and acted as stretcher bearers in the Gallipoli campaign in WWI. They were trained to carry a wounded soldier to the operating table and then to back out of the tent without a fuss. So much for the expression "Stupid donkey". A moving story is told of how, on 19th May 1915, a donkey led by an English soldier John Simpson was carrying an injured soldier through an area of shell fire. Simpson was killed by shrapnel but the donkey carried on and delivered the patient to the casualty station. The donkey, Murphy, then insisted that a section of men be led by him to recover the body of his master. Moving donkeys by ship in wartime conditions proved difficult as donkeys were keen on engaging reverse gear. Then someone struck on a bright idea. .The donkey would be led onto a net laid on the ground with the net corners linked to a crane. The crane would then swing net and donkey aloft onto a coir matted deck on the ship. The ship 'Mount Everest' carried hundreds of donkeys in this fashion from Tunis to Italy in WWII although history does not recall the opinion of the donkeys to this undignified lift.
Paul opened El Refugio del Burrito in Fuente de Piedra, just fifteen minutes drive from Antequera. I saw the Refugio just after it opened in 2002 and was so fascinated that I have visited several times since. It has expanded and improved and is now home to 125 donkeys, attracting attention from tourists and residents. One attractive feature is that you can 'adopt' a donkey. This does not mean taking him or her home with you. You get a certificate of 'your' donkey. If you want to make an adoption a birthday present or anniversary celebration the sanctuary will send it to the person concerned for the day. Visiting friends in AbdalajĂs recently I saw a certificate on the bedroom wall of 18 month old Elise. What a lovely way to get a child involved with animals. An additional service the sanctuary offers is the twice yearly inspection of the Burro taxis in Mijas. Some visitors had expressed concern at the condition of the donkeys there and the Town Hall responded. In order to obtain an operating licence the donkey owners are now subjected to a veterinary and condition inspection. On one of my visits to the Refugio the staff had just returned from Naples where a zoo had closed down and, although some animals had found homes, there were many donkeys still seeking and they were not in good condition. Using a purpose-built lorry the donkeys were transported to Spain to start a new life. Although the Refugio is a happy place - you sense that as soon as you enter - some of the donkeys have a sad history. I was impressed with Hope, a donkey from Greece who had fallen into the hands of louts who had cut off her ears and savaged her back with a shovel. This must be the nadir of depravity and one can only wonder at the mental condition of humans who can ill treat an animal in such a manner. Hope is now happy. The poor condition of donkeys in some countries, often but not always in the Third World, is due to lack of knowledge by peasant owners who lack education. Working on a TV documentary in Southern Italy I decided to spend a few nights in the slums. The family with whom I stayed had a donkey for gathering crops from a nearby farm and he was in a pitiful condition. The illiterate owner shrugged his shoulders, "It is just a donkey". The family would suffer greatly if the donkey died so, through my interpreter, I explained that if the donkey was treated well he would live longer and I was able to obtain an old saddle so his back could carry a load without abrasion. The world famous Father Borrelli, a major character in the documentary, arranged a vet and a crash course in donkey husbandry. The family, engaged in various types of dubious activity, was interested. Keeping the donkey fit was in their best interest. Some animal lovers reading this article may want to keep a donkey. Actually it is better to have two as they like company. If you have the land and the time to devote to them, they do make wonderful pets. However it is very easy to be unkind without intending to be. This is true of most pets. Think carefully about the commitment before acting. Then study the requirements and the basic health of donkeys. I recommend The Professional Handbook of the Donkey by Whillet Books. If you want to keep any animal happy it is essential to know what you are doing. Mistakes can create misery and, as an animal lover, that is the last thing you want to do.
The role of the donkey in the past was more important than it is today, especially in the western world, but what of the future? Now for the good news. In 1974 Dr Elizabeth Svensen was left 204 donkeys in someone's will. Stop and boggle at the thought! Dr Svensen already had 38 donkeys and her benefactor obviously thought she would care for more. She did and that was the start of the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, Devon, which is now the largest donkey sanctuary in the world with low administrative costs and high public attendance and interest. I visited it two years ago and I was very impressed at the attractive layout and the obvious care and attention to the animals. The Sidmouth based charity has expanded to Spain. Dr Svendsen's son
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Costa
Cuisine by Jan Morley of FreezerMor
Thai Food
The first impression Thai cooking leaves on the palate is quite often smouldering taste buds, scorched by a unique blending of spices and ingredients that sets off a fierce explosion of flavours. But it's not the only impression, for Thai cuisine, influenced greatly by Chinese gastronomic principles, is a unique balance of hot, sour, sweet, salty and bitter flavours that stimulates the palate. Thai cooking is similar to much Asian cooking with stir-fries of bite-sized pieces of meat and such vegetables as cabbage, spinach, cucumber and green beans. What sets Thai food apart from other Asian cuisines are their distinctive flavourings and aromatics that supply heat, sweetness or salt: fiery bird chillies, pungent holy basil, palm sugar, fragrant lemon grass, kaffir lime leaves, creamy coconut milk and fresh root ginger. Thai cuisine can roughly be divided on a regional basis into northern, north-eastern (Isan), central, and southern cooking plus the highly refined 'Royal' cuisine. The intricate art of fruit and vegetable carving that grew out of this regal cuisine is perhaps the only tradition to have reached a larger platform. Here is a closer look at some of the main ingredients used in Thai cuisine.
Coconut milk and cream
Coconut milk isn't the liquid from inside the nut, but the extract of freshly grated coconut flesh. The flesh is first soaked in hot water, then allowed to cool, after which the liquid is strained off. It's available in tins from Asian and Caribbean stores and larger supermarkets. Coconut cream is sold in hard blocks. It can be diluted with hot water before using or added straight to the simmering liquid in the pan. Both give a distinctive taste and smoothness to curries, sauces and rice. Coriander is one of the world's most commonly used herbs - in spite of the fact that the name comes from the Greek, koris, meaning bed bug! Native to southern Europe and the Middle East, the plant is now grown worldwide. Coriander tends to be associated most with Asian and Central and South American cooking. Both the fresh leaves and the berries - which are dried and called coriander seeds - are used for cooking. The herb has a fresh, citrus taste and is best added to dishes just before serving in order to get maximum flavour.
Tamarind
A flavouring agent made from the fruit of the tamarind tree. The fruit is shaped like a long bean, inside which is a sour pulp. The pulp can be pressed to form a 'cake' or processed to make a paste.Small pieces of tamarind cake can be broken off and infused to create an acidic liquid flavouring used in Asian and Caribbean cooking. Tamarind tastes a bit like a date but is less sweet (and more sour), and is sometimes known as the Indian date. It's an ingredient in Worcestershire sauce.
Thai fish cakes with Dipping sauce Makes 16, approx 6 cm across. 450g white fish, filleted and skinned, roughly chopped (cod, haddock, hake…) 1finely diced red chilli (or Barts´chilli ) 1 tablespoon red Thai curry paste (Barts´make a good one) Zest of 1 lime , plus juice 1 teaspoon Thai fish sauce (nam pla) Fresh coriander 2 finely chopped spring onions 1 egg Pinch muscovado sugar Salt and pepper 68 costa life
Lemongrass
A main ingredient in Thai and South-east Asian cuisines, lemongrass is a pale green stalk that can be used fresh, or pureed, (as in "Barts´brand) to impart its lemon flavour to sweet or savoury dishes. Fresh stalks are sold in many supermarkets now. If used whole, the lemongrass pieces are always removed from the dish before serving, but some recipes use it finely chopped or pounded into a paste. It keeps in the fridge for about a week. If you can't buy lemongrass then substitute lemon zest. Ginger - A spice that comes from the rhizome (a thick underground stem) of the Zingiber officinale plant. Originally from South-east Asia , ginger can be used fresh (often called root ginger ) or dried and ground to a powder. Ginger adds a touch of heat to both sweet and savoury dishes and is used in cuisines throughout Asia and Europe. In South-east Asia and the Indian subcontinent, fresh ginger is frequently added to curry pastes and it's often cooked with fish dishes in China. In Europe, dried ginger is more frequently used in baking, as in the classic parkin of northern England. It can also be used in drinks, as in ginger 'tea' and ginger beer, and can be preserved in sweet syrup (known as stem ginger).
Method Place all the above ingredients, except the egg, in a food processor, pulse a few times, until chopped, but not a paste, then just add enough beaten egg to bind the mixture Divide the mixture into 16,(about a dessertspoon each) roll each into a ball, then flatten a little. Chill then in the fridge for 20 minutes, if you have time. Meanwhile make the sauce by mixing 1 tablespoon of Dark Soy sauce with 3 tablespoons Thai fish sauce, 1 tsp diced red chilli, 1 clove garlic, crushed, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar. Stir in 75g finely diced white flesh from a cucumber, 1 finely diced carrot, 2 finely diced spring onions. Heat a little sesame oil in a large frying pan, fry the fish cakes for about 1 minute each side, until golden and crisp, serve with the dipping sauce in individual small dishes, allow 4 fish cakes and 1 dipping sauce per guest. Many of these ingredients can be bought in paste form, produced by a firm called ‘‘Barts spices’’ e.g garlic, ginger, lemon grass, Thai curry pastes, Tamarind, Stocked in Freezermor Alhaurin-e el-ggrande.
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>>28 Weeks Later Starring: Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Harold Perrineau, Catherine McCormack Six months after the rage virus has annihilated the British Isles, the US Army declares that the war against infection has been won, and that the reconstruction of the country can begin. In the first wave of returning refugees, a family is reunited - but one of them unwittingly carries a terrible secret. The virus is not yet dead, and this time, it is more dangerous than ever.
>> Are We Done Yet? New house. New family. What could possibly go wrong? Starring: Ice Cube, Nia Long, Aleisha Allen The hilarious follow-up to the 2005 family comedy Are We There Yet? Picking up from where the last story left off, Nick Person (ice Cube) brings his new wife Suzanne (Nia Long) and her two kids to live with him in his bachelor pad apartment. It soon becomes obvious these isn't enough space for them all. The Persons family leave city life for the wide open country and into their dream home. But when things start to fall apart around them, Nick tries to do-it-himself and ends up in over his head. It doesn't get any better when he hires wacky contractor Chuck (John C. McGinley), whose unorthodox methods only make the destruction worse. The Persons wonder if they'll ever call this house a home.
>> Perfect Stranger Every secret leads to another... Starring: Halle Berry, Bruce Willis, Giovanni Ribsi Rowena Price a reporter for a major New York City newspaper goes undercover to investigate the unsolved murder of one of her childhood friends. The path leads her directly into the office and the personal life of multi-millionaire Harrison Hill, CEO of a powerful advertising agency. Investigating him from all angles, Rowena assumes new identities in life and on line. She then harnesses the devastatingly effective tools of cyberspace in an attempt to bring her victim to justice.
>> Next If you can see the future, you can save it. Starring: Nicholas Cage, Julianne Moore, Jessica Biel Las Vegas showroom magician Cris Johnson has a secret which is a gift and a curse which torments him: he can see a few minutes into the future. Sick of the examinations he underwent as a child and the interest of the government and medical establishment in his power, he lies low under an assumed name in Vegas, performing cheap tricks and living off small-time gambling 'winnings.' But when a terrorist group threatens to detonate a nuclear device in Los Angeles, government agent Callie Ferris must use all her wiles to capture Cris and convince him to help her stop the cataclysm.
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>> Unzipped by Suzi Quatro Suzi Quatro, the leather-clad girl from Detroit who picked up a bass guitar and showed the boys how to play it, was the original rock chick. She arrived in Britain in 1971, with no friends, no money and had to steal to survive. But with the help of maverick record producer Mickie Most, Suzi got her big break supporting Slade on a nationwide tour. Suzi's account of her antics during the 70s is astonishingly candid. Her first appearance on "Top of the Pops" in 1973 shocked the viewers - she screamed into the camera, dwarfed by her bass and dressed in a skin-tight leather catsuit. A rock and roll legend had been born. She recalls all the excesses of glam rock, including the dart gun fight she had with Alice Cooper in a hotel during his infamous 'Welcome to my Nightmare' tour. Off stage, she found herself embroiled in a love triangle, which eventually forced her drummer to leave the band. Suzi married her guitarist Len Tuckey. In 1977, Suzi got a part in the cult sitcom "Happy Days". Packed with celebrity anecdotes, "Unzipped" is a frank account of a remarkable life in show business.
>> The Average American Male by Chad Kultgen The controversial bestseller that sparked a Youtube frenzy What is the average male really thinking? Open the pages of Chad Kultgen's novel and you'll get a glimpse at the shocking truth. Taking us on a whirlwind journey through the controversial and yet hilarious thoughts of 'the average American male' Chad Kultgen's anonymous leading character has opinions on everything that life has to throw at a man. Parents, sex, Women's obsession with marriage, weight gain, sex, Marie Osmond, and finally, sex. Not for the faint-hearted, this is the book that that every woman should read, and every man should hide.
>> Heartsick by Chelsea Cain He thinks he sees a flash of emotion in her eyes. Sympathy? Then it's gone. 'Whatever you think this is going to be like,' she whispers, 'it's going to be worse.' When beautiful serial killer Gretchen Lowell captured her last victim, the man in charge of hunting her down, she quickly established who was really in control of the investigation. So why, after ten days of horrifying physical and mental torture, did she release Detective Archie Sheridan from the brink of death and hand herself in? Two years on, Archie remains driven by a terrifying obsession that was born during his time alone with Gretchen. One thing is clear Archie does not believe he was ever truly freed. Now Archie returns to lead the search for a new killer, whose recent attacks on teenage girls have left the city of Portland reeling. Shadowed by vulnerable young reporter Susan Ward, Archie knows that only one person can help him climb into the mind of this psychopath. But can Archie finally manage to confront the demons of his past without being consumed by them?
>> Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen Bascom, North Carolina is a town where everyone is known for their family's characteristics, passed down through generations. One family's women are good in bed: they always marry well. One family gives birth to a strong man - always called Josiah - once in a generation (you go to him to help you when you move house). The Waverleys are known for their magic touch: Evanelle, who's lived in Bascom all her life, gives people what they need before they know they need it; Claire, who came to town when she was six and never wants to leave, can turn the plants in her garden into delicious food and drink with spectacular effects on those who consume it; Sydney, who ran away from her home town at 18, hasn't worked out what hers is. When Sydney returns to Bascom with her little girl, in flight from an abusive marriage, she proves a catalyst for change in the lives of all three women.
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All the real stars of Hollywood have taken to the hills as the British Beckham’s arrived in LA. The pouting scrawny attention seeking Posh Spice real name Victoria, has already put noses out of joint. ‘‘Mrs B is scarcely more entertaining than a lump of cheddar cheese,’’ says the New York Times. Will the $128 million from the Galaxy all Stars, ever be paid to her ageing and limping soccer husband David?, everyone is saying it will all end in tears, it’s more tripe than hype…And while we are on the subject of hype, Tom Cruise and his wife Katie Holmes. (Friends of the Beckham’s who failed to make the welcoming party) are said to be expecting their second child. Katie has been wearing extra tight dresses and sticking her stomach out to photographers…With Tom Cruise being one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood $31 million. Others are George Clooney $25 million, Brad Pitt $35 million, Tom Hanks $74 million, and Johnny Depp said to have been paid $92 million for the Pirate pictures. The highest paid female actor is Nicole Kidman at $28 million. All these enormous payouts as Hollywood announces that last year films earned $25.8 billion for the moguls of movies…The delicious Julianne Moore confides about her fellow actors ‘‘They are all nutty- all of them, not just the women, the men are worst’’. Julianne continues, ‘‘I have a habit of playing parts that are hot and steamy’’. Her new film is called Savage Grace, ‘‘I have some sexy incest scenes in the film, so my fans will not be disappointed’’…Lots of rumours about John Travolta, after a photograph had been taken of him kissing another man. Now John has revealed that he has felt strangely in touch with his feminine side, after he had dressed up in women’s clothes for his latest role as Edna in the film Hairspray…That lovely French lady of the screen Juliet Binoche will star with Liam Neeson in a film called The Other Man. A strange eerie story that is said to be slightly disturbing…What’s happened to Star Trek veterans, 76 year old William Shatner (Captain Kirk) and Leonard Nimoy (Dr Spock) 76. After a 43 year friendship? They are said to have fallen out after Nimoy landed a part in a new Star Trek film. Shatner had not been considered. Is it owing to the strange ginger wig that Shatner wears?…While age seems to be an issue James Caan 66, has decided that not many men of his age get film parts, so he and Robert Duvall, a fellow Godfather actor will form a film company for pensioned actors… Another Spice Girl Melanie Brown or Mel B also known as Scary is a very happy girl, she finally has the DNA results back on her 2-month-old baby Angel Iris Murphy- Brown. The father is named officially as comedy actor Eddie Murphy, who has always denied that he is the father…Cameron Diaz finally has a new man in her life, he is billionaire David de Rothschild of the famous banking family. this will save her having to pop out to the corner cash machine…Why does model Cindy Crawford look a lot younger than her 41 years, scientist claim that moles like the one Cindy has on her face, makes her biologically younger than other women who have none at all, that’s what they call making mountains out of mole hills…
So what else is new…?
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REVIEW
>> Kylie X - Kylie Minogue September 27th sees the release of the eagarly-anticipated new album from Kylie. Now completely recovered from her recent health problem, this is the lady from Down Under at her usual best. No suprises as the Kylie Assembly Line contains to deliver some great pops songs. The current single Excuse My French kicks off the set like Confide In Me with a Can’t Get You Out Of My Head bassline. Other worthwhile tracks include a live version of White Diamond from her latest tour, Stars and In My Arms. A great return to the music scene and no doubt a million seller in Europe and Australia.
>> Now Listen - Shakin' Stevens This is Shaky’s best album. It's a great comeback and you can tell that everyone concerned really did their best with this piece of work. Having ignored four release dates, this CD finally comes out and it meets and even beats all expectations. The songs here are more guitar-driven then his older stuff and is how Rock ‘n’ Roll sounds TODAY. Pretty much every track is a standout, but special mentions much go to the title track, Somewhere in the Night, Baby It’s You, How Could It Be Like That (which sounds a little like Bryan Adams’ Run to You) and the 2005 hit single Trouble.
>> All The Lost Souls - James Blunt James Blunt - one of the most successful British artists this decade - is back with his first album in 3 years. Armed with an arsenal of impressive new songs, he returns on September 17th with the eagerly anticipated ‘All The Lost Souls’. A dynamic, immaculate, back-to-basics LP of addictive melodies and distinctive vocals, it features 10 brand new tracks, including the rousing lead single ‘1973’. Highlights include the deftly captivating ‘Annie’ & the blazing ‘One of the Brightest Stars’.
>> This Is the Life - Amy MacDonald At just 19, Glaswegian singer-songwriter Amy possesses a talent way beyond her years. Key tracks of the album are: Poison Prince, Mr Rock & Roll, LA and Run. Since signing to Vertigo Amy has had a phenomenal few months. She’s supported a diverse mix of artists including Travis (her childhood idols!) and fellow Scott Paolo Nutini. She’s performed at Glastonbury, Hyde Park Calling and performed at T in the Park and V Festival in 2007. In April 2007 Amy Macdonald sold out renowned Scottish venue King Tuts.
>> Lady's Bridge - Richard Hawley Lauded singer-songwriter Richard Hawley made his commercial breakthrough on 2005's remarkable, Mercury Prize nominated Coles Corner. Lady's Bridge mines the same seam as Coles Corner, with 11 eloquently charming songs that switch between the romantic strains of opener "Valentine" and "Roll River Roll" and more uppity numbers such as the rhythm & blues infused "Serious" and the countrified twang of tracks like "Tonight the Streets Are Ours" and the Johnny Cash inspired "Dark Road". Hawley's lyricism retains its coruscating, retro feel, his vibrant baritone again matched to rousing orchestral strings, climbing chord sequences and background harmonising, creating atmospheres of dreamy fireside warmth and heartfelt melancholy.
All CD’s above can be purchased online at www.ccfmradio.com
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STRANGE BUT TRUE Celeb Quotes…
Growing old...
I think that gay marriage is something that should be between a man and a woman Arnold Schwartzanegger You use your money to buy privacy because during most of your life you aren't allowed to be normal. Johnny Depp
Remember: You don't stop laughing because you grow old, you grow old because you stop laughing.
Just before the funeral services, the undertaker came up to the very elderly widow and asked, ‘‘How old was your husband?’’ ‘‘98,’’ she replied. ‘‘Two years older than me.’’ ‘‘So you're 96,’’ the undertaker commented. She responded, ‘‘Hardly worth going home, is it?’’
Ways to maintain a healthy level of insanity… At lunch time, sit in your parked car with sunglasses on and point a hair dryer at passing cars. See if they slow down. Page yourself over the intercom. Don’t disguise your voice. Every time someone asks you to do something, ask if they want fries with that. Order diet water whenever you go out to eat, with a serious face. When the money comes out the ATM, scream ‘‘I won! I won!’’ When leaving the zoo, start running towards the parking lot, yelling ‘‘Run for your lives! They’re loose!’’
A bit of an idiot… A fisherman has told how he caught a shark using his bare bands - while drunk on vodka. Phillip Kerkhof, 41, managed to wrestle the fourfoot bronze whaler onto a jetty in Louth Bay, Australia. Sharks - best to steer clear of. The bricklayer sprung into action after spotting the shark chasing squid in shallow waters - and only suffered a tear in his trousers. Mr Kerkhof told Australia Broadcasting Corps: ‘‘I just snuck up behind him and eventually I went for the big grab and I fluked it and got him. ‘‘He was just thrashing around in the water ... starting to turn around and trying to bite me and I thought ‘well, it’s amazing what vodka does’. ‘‘The area near Louth Bay, around the southern tip of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, is well known for sharks. Live shark action for the 1975 movie Jaws was filmed nearby. Mr Kerkhof, who said he had ‘‘a fair few vodkas’’ before he went fishing, said he only realised the danger of his actions the following day. He said: ‘‘It’s not something I’d recommend to do. When I sobered up I thought about it and I said, 'I'm a bit of an idiot doing it’. ‘‘However, he has already had two meals from the shark and plans to cook the rest for friends. ‘‘It’s bloody beautiful mate - restaurant quality,’’ he said.
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The nice thing about being senile is you can hide your own Easter eggs.
Tesco... An elderly woman decided to prepare her will and told her preacher she had two final requests. First, she wanted to be cremated, and second, she wanted her ashes scattered over Tesco. ‘‘Tesco?’’ the preacher exclaimed. ‘‘Why Tesco?’’ ‘‘Then I'll be sure my daughters visit me twice a week.’’
Sudoku and Crossword answers for Issue 30
Sudoku
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8 6 1 6 1 7 5 9 8 8 6 2 3 7 1 8 4 2 2 3 3 1 7 6 1
9
5 8 1 4 9 3 7 5
The rules of Sudoku: place a digit from 1-9 in each empty cell, so every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9.
CHALLENGE
Across 1 Misfortunes 5 Big name in cosmetics 9 Synagogue 13 Unhappy expression 14 Scholarly book 15 Roll call response 16 Sensitive topics 19 Song of India 20 Modus __ 21 Parenthetical comments 23 ‘‘Time’’ founder 24 Broad smile 25 Cut into 28 Composer Mussorgsky 32 Rhone tributary 33 Bête noire 34 Coffee alternative 35 Atlantic fish 36 Street lingo 38 Sea dogs 39 Sister of Zsa Zsa 40 Advance 41 Wavy silk pattern 42 Having feelings 44 Moved deeply 46 Bereft 47 Creator of Mickey and Donald 48 ‘‘Baywatch’’ actress Anderson 51 Moon of Jupiter 55 Bowled over 56 Analgesic 58 Distinctive flavor 59 Fishing spot 60 Calm interval 61 Jekyll’s alter ego 62 Hopalong Cassidy actor 63 With skill
Down 1 ___ facto 2 Plane stunt 3 Attraction 4 British money 5 Immediately 6 Made invalid 7 Former Dodge model 8 After taxes 9 Pilgrim’s goal 10 Cattle count 11 Compulsion 12 Grasslands 17 Stop temporarily 18 Malay garment 22 Flank 24 Crime buster 25 Dots in the ocean 26 Ingenuous 27 1980’s Schwarzenegger role 29 Flight component 30 Pied-a-___ 31 Alleviated 33 Embargo 36 Persian governor 37 Claim on property 38 Nacho base 40 Wilde’s ‘‘The Ballad of Reading ___’’ 41 Metric prefix 43 Arctic transport 44 Ostentatiously stylish 45 Had a discussion 48 Approach 49 Absent 50 Patch up 51 Florentine farewell 52 Soft lump in yarn 53 Break the news 54 Air France destination 57 Clerical garb
crossword
costa life 75
>> costa STUFF The most common malignant skin cancer in dogs is the mast cell tumor. Mast cells are normal cells in the body that serve as a defense mechanism. When you are bitten by a mosquito, for instance, the mast cells initiate the inflammatory response that causes the production of a red and itchy hive. Mast cells also contribute to asthma and food allergies. If the normal mast cell undergoes a malignant change, a mast cell tumor may be produced. Canine mast cell tumors may be benign or possess varying degrees of malignancy. Malignancies range from local reoccurrence following surgical removal to aggressive systemic disease, which may ultimately be fatal. Biopsy can help determine the aggressiveness of a mast call tumor. Although mast cell tumors primarily affect the skin, they have the potential to spread to other areas of the body. Therefore, it is important not only to address the skin tumor, but also to fully evaluate the pet for signs of metastasis. This often includes blood work, thoracic radiographs and abdominal ultrasound. If there is no evidence of tumor metastasis, surgical removal of the mast cell tumor may cure the problem. If complete surgical removal is not possible, radiation therapy or chemotherapy can be considered. Feline cutaneous (skin) mast cell tumors are generally benign and
LUMPS
ON YOUR PET
surgical removal is often curative. Metastasis from a skin mast call tumor is not as common in cats as it is in dogs. Some cats, however, may produce a distinctly different type of mast cell tumor that primarily affects internal organs, such as the spleen, liver and bone marrow. This type of mast cell tumor is called visceral mastocytosis and is much more aggressive than mast cell tumors of the skin. When you notice a lump or bump on your pet, it is best to have your pet examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Many pets have lumps that remain benign all of their lives, but if a lump is malignant, your pet has a better prognosis if treated early. Skin cancers are quite common and often can be cured. The best way to detect lumps at any stage is to give your pet full body rubs on a regular basis. Not only are you contributing to your pet’s health and your own peace of mind, your pet is going to love the attention!!
L
umps are a very common occurrence, especially in aging pets. Approximately 30 percent of all tumors found in dogs and cats occur on the skin. There are a couple of important questions owners should ask themselves when they find lumps on their pets. Has the lump appeared suddenly, or has it been there awhile? Has the lump stayed the same in consistency and appearance or has it changed recently? Does the lump seem to separate from underlying tissue or is it attached? Is there only one lump or are there multiple similar lumps? And finally, are there changes in your pet's behavior such as eating less, losing weight, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy?
Answering these questions may help your veterinarian evaluate the seriousness of the lump’s presence. Often, lumps are benign accumulations of fat known as lipomas. Keep in mind, however, that while all lipomas are lumps, not all lumps are lipomas. Any detected lump should be evaluated for the possibility of a more aggressive malignancy. In general, many benign lumps may grow slowly or not at all and remain unchanged for many months or even years. Most malignant lumps, however, grow rapidly and may infiltrate into the underlying tissue. The best way to figure out if a lump is benign or malignant is to have your pet examined by a veterinarian. Many skin tumors, benign or malignant, can be cured with surgery. Unfortunately, skin tumors could be just the tip of the iceberg. Diagnostic tests may be needed to determine if the lump on your pet might be a manifestation of a more widespread disease.
76 costa life
Myramar animal Hospital. Av/Santa Amalia esq voluntariors 29640 Fuengirola. .
952588543 667433678 myramarhospital@hotmail.com
costa STUFF >>
costa life 77
>> costaSTUFF
brought to you by Russell Vaughan
What to do with an old computer?
So you have just bought a new computer but what do you do with your old one? Before you decide, take a few minutes to look at my guide it may help you decide what to do with your old computer.
1. Reuse it
Your old computer is no longer fast enough to serve as your main computer, but it may be able to handle Web browsing and light word processing. Consider keeping the computer to use for lighter duty elsewhere. Get a computer professional to configure a simple network to allow you to share your internet connection with other members of your home or business.
2. Upgrade it
Another option is to extend its life with a few well-chosen upgrades. Add a larger-capacity hard disk, some extra memory, and a new operating system, and you might be surprised at how fast that old computer can be. To see what type of hardware is installed on your old computer, do the following: Right-click Start, and then click Explore. Right-click My Computer, and then click Properties. Look at the general tab in the System Properties dialog box. Consider a hard disk or memory upgrade if your old computer doesn't meet at least the following standards: z CPU: Minimum Pentium 4, 2.0 GHz or faster z Memory: At least 256 MB (preferably 512 MB or more) z Hard drive: At least 40 GB (for basic web browsing and light use) Hardware upgrades typically make the most sense as a few well chosen upgrades can breathe new life into that old computer. After you've upgraded the hardware on the computer, y o u c a n improve its performance by upgrading the operating system.
Vista Tips
3. Give it away
If you don't have anyone in mind, giving a computer away might not be as easy as it sounds, especially if your computer is more than three or four years old. Check with charities to find out if they have any minimum requirements for accepting computers. If the computer includes any software, the charity will want physical copies of the software licenses along with your signed agreement to transfer those licenses.
4. Recycle it
If after everything your old computer has finally reached the end of the road, don't just throw it in the rubbish. Some components are toxic. Some computer manufacturers take old computers regardless of who manufactured them. These manufacturers typically send old computers to a firm that disassembles the computers and recycles the pieces. Dell and Gateway have excellent recycling programs. If they are too far away try your local computer shop.
Whatever you decide delete your old data ‌ completely
The hard disk in an old computer will be full of personal data, financial details, emails, photos etc. Data has a way of hiding on your computer. Traces of passwords and other information can be saved in temporary files on the hard disk. If you wipe out the contents of the folders where you normally store data, you might overlook these hidden files. And even when you delete a file from your hard disk, it doesn't really go away. Bits of data remain on the hard disk until they're overwritten by other data. This data can be recovered by anyone who knows what they're doing. Wherever you buy your new computer get a qualified technician to transfer your data to your new computer and clean the data from your old one. Keep your personal data personal. If you want advice about upgrading your old computer, data transfer or cleaning your old data email me.
Windows Vista Help: Help that really helps I always tell my customers to look for the RTFM button, it says HELP Click Start and then click Help and Support. The Help and Support window will open. Once you get the hang of it you may be able to solve many of those minor irritations and I bet that you'll find your answer after reading just one or two topics, without having to read the whole Help system. Help topics have matured over the years and are mostly added because of the questions users have asked in the past. Topics are based on common questions and problems. This is why Help topic titles often ask the question you are likely asking or the problem you're trying to solve. In vista certain topics deliver certain types of content. Quick answers, procedures, troubleshooters, and FAQs give you answers quickly, while articles use a longer format to provide more information, best practices, and tips. Help has more than 750 illustrations and screen shots to show you the way. Read all 2,000+ Help topics and you will know a lot about Windows. Next month vista keyboard shortcuts
Russell http://www.onestopalhaurin.com tel:665016374 78 costa life
ARE YOU A REBEL? DO YOU LOVE TO BREAK THE LAW? S
ome people are obvious rebels, determined to go against the law as much as possible, whilst others tend to toe the line but can’t resist breaking the law in certain areas.
Here on the Costa del Sol it’s quite a familiar sight to see a motor scooter with two people minus the compulsory crash helmets speeding around town with a dog sitting on the running board! We have seen two little dogs sitting on a speeding scooter with a bareheaded rider and pillion passenger. One way to get the adrenalin rushing around the body! Certain people see laws in place simply to be broken; the challenge is too great to resist. Others accept restrictions imposed by various laws as inevitable and simply go along with them. But whether or not we all agree with law enforcement in general is not important. What is more important is the understanding that there are certain laws in place on this earth that have always been there and simply cannot be changed. For instance, the law of gravity will operate whether or not we choose to respect it. Try jumping off a building in defiance of that law and you will find that it works every time. You won’t be carried upwards by thermals or float down to a soft landing. There is a strong possibility that you will hit the ground hard! The law of gravity will pull you down, so we need to understand and respect that law. Then there is the law of sowing and reaping. A tomato seed planted in the ground will produce a tomato plant that will bear tomatoes. It will not produce beans or peas but only tomatoes. Seeds will produce after their own kind. We have a tomato plant on our balcony amongst the flowering shrubs and it has produced a really generous crop of tomatoes. One little seed has produced dozens of tomatoes, proof that the law of sowing and reaping is working. This law will work on the earth in every area of life, not only in the planting of seeds in the ground. Whatever we sow will produce a harvest eventually. If we sow kindness to others, we should reap kindness in return. Have you ever read Tom and the Water Babies, a classic story for
children? One of the characters that Tom meets on his travels is Mrs Doasyouwouldbedoneby!! Whatever we do to others, whether a kind act or heartless, will return to us in our harvest. This is a law that will always work as long as we live on this earth. Have you ever wondered why you have struggled to find good friendships? Perhaps you need to offer your friendship to others who are in need and good friends will come into your life. Have you ever woken up in the morning feeling on top of the world and find yourself smiling at everyone you meet. You will probably have received smiles in return which encourage your cheerful mood as the day progresses. On the other hand sometimes you may wake up feeling really grumpy and throughout the day people seem to be scowling at you and treating you badly. What have you sown in that day?!! Luke Chapter 6:31-38 from the Message Bible ‘‘….Here is a simple rule of thumb for behaviour; Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! ……….If you only give for what you hope to get out of it, do you think that’s charity? The stinginess of pawnbrokers does that……….Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticise their faults - unless, of course, you want the same treatment……Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back - given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.’’ Annette Riggall tecfellowship@gmail.com The Evangelical Christian Fellowship - An oasis where the Word of God is preached and the love of God is shared. We welcome you to visit us and meet new friends! Sundays at 4.30pm Ermita San Miguel, Calahonda. www.ecfmijas.com tel: (0034) 952 467 394 or e-m mail: tecfellowship@gmail.com Pastors Peter and Annette Riggall
costa life 79
All your local information for the costa del sol
>>
Useful info numbers, phrases and shopping tips that will aid your stay in Spain
81
>>
Where to go and What to do along the coast and inland
82
>>
Business Directory
85
All your services and business needs in our comprehensive guide Sponsored by www.guidetothecosta.com
Check it all out online at
Useful numbers & information
costa GUIDE >>
EMERGENCIES >> LOCAL POLICE
Alhaurin el Grande Alora Antequera Arroyo de la Miel Benalmádena, Málaga, Marbella & Ronda Cartama Coin Estepona Fuengirola Nerja Torremolinos
952 491 074 952 498 031 952 708 104 952 708 104 092 952 422 211 952 453 267 952 800 243 952 589 324 952 521 545 952 381 422
>> NATIONAL POLICE National Police
>> GUARDIA CIVIL
Guardia Civil Alhaurin el Grande Alhaurin del la Torre Alora Cartama Coin
Benalmádena, Málaga & Mijas Estepona Fuengirola Marbella Torremolinos
080 952 804 483 952 461 046 952 774 349 952 383 939
>> MEDICAL SERVICES Emergencies
>> AMBULANCE
062 952 595 830 952 960 067 952 496 020 952 422 639 952 450 138
Benalmádena Fuengirola Málaga Marbella Torremolinos
MARKET PLACES MONDAYS >>
Alora, Marbella near the football stadium
TUESDAYS >>
Benamagosa, Fuengirola (Feria Ground), Nerja weekly market (Calle Chaparil)
WEDNESDAY >>
Benalmadena Parque de la Paloma, La Cala, Estepona, La Linea, Rincon de la Victoria
THURSDAY >>
Alhaurin el Grande, Pizara, Frigiliana, Torremolinos, Velez Malaga, San Pedro, Torre del Mar
FRIDAY >>
Benalmadena Tivoli Gardens, Casares, Cartama, Aguamania, ctra Cartama, Las Chapas
SATURDAY >>
Fuengirola, La Cala, Ojen Pueblo, Coin, Competa, Puerta Banus near bullring
SUNDAY >>
Estation de Cartama, Fuengirola near the mosque, Malaga near the football stadium, Sabinillas, Estepona, Sotogrande, Nerja car boot sale
TOURIST INFORMATION 952 410 005 952 491 275 952 495 577 952 702 505 952 422 126 952 453 211 952 442 494
902 505 061
>> STATE HOSPITALS
902 505 061 902 505 061 951 030 300 952 769 946 952 386 484
952 441 545 952 802 900 952 471 000 956 770 027 952 327 950 952 774 488 952 476 593 956 654 304 952 490 709 952 443 563 952 450 366 952 802 954 952 475 066 952 172 396 953 350 061 952 764 400 952 781 396 952 380 965
Algeciras Alhaurin Benalmádena Coin Estepona Fuengirola La Linea Málaga Marbella San Pedro Torremolinos
TRAIN STATIONS
The Coastal Service stops at every major town between Fuengirola and Málaga from 06:45 and 22:30 from Málaga 902 240 202 Call
LOST/STOLEN CREDIT CARDS >> Abbey National Allied Irish American Express Bank of Scotland Barclays Bank Diners Club First Direct Girobank
TAXIS
Benalmádena Estepona Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Costa
BUS STATIONS
061
Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Málaga & Marbella
Calle Mauricio Moro, Pareta, 22nd Floor, MÁLAGA. Open 08:30 - 13:30 Enquiries 952 352 300
952 048 844 956 773 026
Malaga Gibraltar
>> FIRE BRIGADE
091
>> BRITISH CONSULATE
Alhaurin de la Torre Alhaurin el Grande Alora Antequera Cartamar Coin Benalmádena
TRANSPORT >> AIRPORTS
1619516500 2890330099 2072229633 1383738866 1604230230 1252513500 1132345678 1514721110
Halifax Lloyds TSB Mastercard Nat & Provincial Nationwide Natwest Yorkshire Bank
8457203099 1702364274 1383621166 1274331522 1793543888 1132778899 1132424800
SIZE COMPARISONS >> Don’t let being unsure about sizes impare your shopping sprees...
Shoes SP 37 38 39 40 41 42 43
Men’s Wear UK 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SP 44 46 48 50/52 54 56 58
UK 34 36 38 40 42 44 46
Men’s Shirts SP 35 36/37 38 39/40 41 42/43 44
UK 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 17
Women’s Wear SP 36 38 40 42 44 46 48
UK 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
>>Spanish Facts >> Telephone: to make an international call from Spain, dial 00 and then add the country code (UK 44; USA 1; Australia 61; Canada 1; Irish Republic 353; New Zealand 64) and the rest of the telephone number minus the first zero if there is one. To call Spain from abroad, the country code is 00 34. >> Business hours: the normal opening hours for shops are Monday to Saturday from around 10am until about 1.30 / 2pm. After siesta they reopen from around 5.30pm until 8pm or 9pm. Large stores usually stay open all day. Most places are Estepona Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Nerja Torremolinos
952 802 002 952 467 457 0350 774 982 952 213 445 952 771 442 952 485 900 952 521 531 952 379 512
closed on Sundays. >> Banks: generally open from 9am to 2pm from Monday to Friday, and from 9am to midday or 1pm on Saturday. Hours may vary in summer. >>Customs allowance- importation from Gibraltar into Spain 1 litre of spirits or strong liqueurs over 22% or 2 litres of wine 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 gms tobacco Goods brought in Gibraltar may only be imported into spain between 0900 hours and 2100 hours
TOWN HALLS Estepona Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Nerja Torremolinos
952 801 100 952 467 625 0350 774 902 952 135 000 952 761 100 952 485 900 952 520 404 952 379 400
christines irish irish theme theme bar bar & & restaurant restaurant Playa Playa Marina Marina opening opening times times
mon mon -- fri fri -- 10am 10am till till 1am 1am sat sat -- sun sun -- 12pm 12pm till till 1am 1am
good good homemade homemade food food -- pies pies -- cakes cakes large large screen screen showing showing sports, sports, concerts concerts etc. etc. wednesday wednesday & & sunday sunday night night ten ten pin pin bowling bowling parties parties catered catered for for christmas christmas & & new new years years eve eve bookings bookings now now being being taken taken sunday sunday roast roast dinners dinners from from 1pm 1pm tel: tel: 952 952 666 666 928 928 mob: mob: 637 637 470 470 488 488 email: email: scoobyyates@yahoo.com scoobyyates@yahoo.com
YOU!
can advertise
Here
for as little as
120 â‚Ź
Beach
El Faro Fuengirola
Captains Bar
Km202
La Cala Marbella
Blancos Restaurant
15% discount off food bill (only) for golfing parties of 8 or more - pre booked in.
Take the El Oceano turn off the A7, turn IMMEDIATELY RIGHT and follow the signs for Vista Del Mar.
ACTIVITIES The Activities available include Clay Pigeon Shooting, Archery, Quad Biking, Air Pistols, Horse Riding and you don’t have to have a go at all the activities in one day, you can carry on where you left off the next day.
CLUB RESTAURANT
Marbella G u n
a n d
C o u n t r y
C l u b
Set in 140 acres of stunning countryside in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves, Marbella Gun and Country Club boasts the finest facilities in Europe
The Restaurant offers an innovative menu, featuring fresh fish, the finest quality meats, a good selection of vegetarian options and, if a full meal isn’t to your fancy, there is also a wide choice of light meals and snacks to be enjoyed in the bar area or out on the poolside terrace. The first of seven new superbly appointed Scandinavian log cabins is now ready for viewing. This first phase will be located close to the pool, patio, restaurant and boasts some of the finest views the club has to offer. Anyone interested in a viewing please contact the club to make an appointment. Available from September. Ideal for short breaks, long weekends etc. We are also the perfect venue for your private function, weddings, birthdays, celebrations and corporate events. We can arrange live music, buffets, set menus and barbecues. Opening Hours From 10am (open 7 days per week) Please call for further details Marbella Gun and Country Club, Monda, Málaga, Spain Tel:952 112161 Mob: 627 963 747 Fax: 952 112162
Email : marbellagun@yahoo.co.uk www.marbellagunandcountryclub.com
Arctic.S.L.
Fully registered & insured company over 10 years in Spain Air-conditioning & Heating With de-humidifiers. Installations from â‚Ź525 Including fitting & 3 years Guarantee. Service & Repairs to all makes of Air-conditioning Machines
Why not use your swimming pool All of the year round We supply Heat-Pumps with covers And rollers to keep the water warm All year
TEL. 952592785
Mob. 637892298 e-mail. arcticsl@hotmail.com
YOU!
can advertise
Here
for as little as
120 â‚Ź
Magnificent Villa and Grounds
AEG517 - Great Golf Apartment €235,000 This beautiful apartment in Alhaurín el Grande comes fully furnished with brand new appliances & fittings. There are 2 beds and 2 baths, fitted kitchen & large lounge plus private terrace, storage & allocated underground parking. Great views & access to the course, a communal pool & gardens. Like this? Then checkout AEG423 on our website
AEG516 - Álhaurin el Grande
€895,000
A more attractive villa & grounds would be hard to find - 327m2 build - enormous ensuite bedrooms, large lounge, fitted kitchen, conservatory, perfect pool & poolside bar/BBQ. 10,000m2 of landscaped mature grounds with pond, bridges, walkways plus garage & carport. All services supplied - spectacular views & easy access. Like this? Then checkout AEG476 on our website
AEG511 - ENORMOUS Townhouse €371,000 Great investment opportunity in Alhaurín el Grande. 300m2 of townhouse split into a 3 bed main house & 4 self contained apartments part renovated yet still with the scope to make your mark - a reluctant sale - great views, internal patio & fabulous original features. Like this? Then checkout CNN515 on our website
Impressive Cortijo
VFR487 - Perfect Country Home €357,000 An incredibly well presented country home with 3 beds, 2 stylish bathrooms, fitted kitchen, lovely garden, swimming pool & spectacular views. Mains electricity plus community & irrigation water. Centrally located for Coin, Cartama and the Alhauríns. Like this? Then checkout ADT500 on our website
ALA338 - Alora ALA478 - Stylish Country Home €515,000 This fabulous home in Alora combines modern stylish living with country charm & character - 2 storey, amazing pool & views, 4 beds & 3 baths, striking kitchen & remarkable landscaped garden. Town water & mains electricity supplied. Like this? Then checkout ALA508 on our website
€795,000
A superb old cortijo fantastically refurbished and full of character: 468m2 built in 21,690m2 of land, 3 separate living areas comprising 7 beds, 4 baths, 3 kitchens, numerous cobbled terraces, lovely pool, stables, car`port plus private driveway. All services connected, impressive views and good access. Like this? Then checkout ECH464 on our website