Essential Marbella Magazine April 2013

N º165 -APRIL 2013

essential essential magazine® marbella ISSUE 165 • APRIL 2013

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

e

MARBELLA

COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

ROLLS ROYCE

PHANTOM

BARCELONA WEEK

Bridal

2013 Wedding TRENDS

ICONIC

I DO’s

Honeymoon Hangouts

Wedding FEVER

WINE

GLASS LORE

N E W S I C U LT U R E I P E O P L E I T R E N D I S T Y L E I S P A I P R O I L E I S U R E I G O U R M E T & M O R E

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Issue 165 • April 2013 PUBLISHER AND DIRECTOR

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

GENERAL MANAGER

ANDREA BÖJTI sales@essentialmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER SALES SUPPORT

SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com JAN DENDAUW jan@essentialmagazine.com PATRICK McCREANOR patrick@essentialmagazine.com RÉKA VIDÁTS reka@essentialmagazine.com

ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

You are holding an

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

award winning

DESIGN & LAYOUT

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

publication

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

At the end of 2011, the largest national association of publishers, the Asociación Española de Editoriales de Publicaciones Periódicas (AEEPP), selected Marbella Magazine as the Best Free Publication in Spain.

Over 100 titles were considered nationwide in only a handful of categories for these prestigious annual awards and was proud to accept the limited edition medal as its prize at the awards ceremony in Madrid.

This is a wonderful recognition for all the hard work put in by the team over the past 13 years and the perfect inspiration for them to continue to bring you a high quality publication every month that is always entertaining and informative.

PRINTING DEPÓSITO LEGAL

MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com ANDREA BÖJTI INMA AURIOLES MELINDA SZARVAS KEVIN HORN IAIN BLACKWELL, MICHEL CRUZ, RIK FOXX, RUSSELL GRANT, AJ LINN, TONY WHITNEY JAVIER GALUE www.atlantistarget.com JIMÉNEZ GODOY A. GRÁFICAS, MURCIA D.L. MA-512-99

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICES COMPLEJO LA PÓVEDA, BLQ. 3, 1º A, CN 340, KM 178, 29600 MARBELLA, MÁLAGA. TEL: 952 766 344 FAX: 952 766 343

ESSENTIAL MARBELLA MAGAZINE

@ESSENTIALEDITOR

www.essentialmagazine.com Member of the Association of Spanish Periodical Publications

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affiliated to:

conditions:

The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot accept Marbella Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the effects of errors or omissions. responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers.

Marbella Magazine. © Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. for No part of this magazine, including texts, photographs, illustrations, maps or any other graphics may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. Printed on recyclable paper, produced without wood and bleached without chlorine.

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contents g The Trend Cinema 24 Home Viewing 26 Music 28 Books 30 Gadgets 32 The New Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II Drophead Coupé 34

The Focus Wedding Trends 38 Iconic Weddings 46 Most Romantic Proposals 54 Rosa Clará 60 Mariola Sanabria Ruiz of Mery Hello 62

The Style A Luxury Marbella Villa 66 Bridal Wear from Barcelona Fashion Week 78 Fashion News 84

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The Spa

The Gourmet

90 Beauty: Beautiful Wedding Hairdos 92 Beauty News 94 Health: Healthy Fats 96 Health News 98 The Hotel Kempinski Spa

129 Nueva Campana 131 Aroma 132 Food News 134 Chef Profile: Jordi Miquel of Casino Marbella 136 The Importance of Wine Glasses

The Pro

The Guide

100 Enterprise 108 Línea Directa 110 Business Profile: Sands Real Estate 112 Vibe

138 Listings

The Leisure

The Blog 149 Pet News 150 What’s On 152 Stars 154 Kids Zone

116 Honeymoon Destinations 124 Hotel: THB Reserva del Higuerón

3/21/13 7:17 PM

Spain’s new overseas asset reporting law.

Are your assets tax efficient?

We need to talk.

We are holding small private seminars to discuss this issue and the opportunities that may arise from it. Please contact us if you are interested in attending, or if you would prefer a private appointment.

900 460 174 PS01B-es

southernspain@blevinsfranks.com Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided overseas, via the Insurance Mediation Directive from Malta, the regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. Blevins Franks Tax Limited’s advisers only give taxation advice and are fully qualified.

w w w. b l e v i n s f r a n k s . c o m

So

Thinking of selling?

ld in 13 20 by

Sold in March: Villa in Los Monteros Beach.

Beautiful Villa just steps from the beach. Asking price 3.500.000 €.

EN GE

Sold in February: Penthouse in Hacienda Playa, Elviria. Asking price 775.000 €.

Sold in January: Asking price 499.000 €.

L& L VÖ

Sold in March: Apartment in Jardines del Pri ipe. A sking price 553.000 €.

Office Elviria: 952 83 55 80 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

KE

Sold in March: Villa in Hacienda Las Chapas. Asking price 1.950.000 €.

RS

Argentina · Australia · Austria · Bahrein · Belgium · Bostwana · Chile · China · Croatia · Cyprus · Czech Republic · France · Germany · Great Britain · Holland · Hungary · Ireland · Italy · Jor Luxemburg · Mozambique · Namibia · New Zealand · Peru · Portugal · Qatar · Romania · Russia · Slovenia · South Africa · Spain · Switzerland · Thailand · Turkey · UAE · Uruguay · USA · Zambia

So

Don´t look any further.

ld in 13 20 by

Sold in January 2013: Villa in Sierra Blanca.

Large and mature plot and beautiful sea view. Asking price 3.500.000 €.

EN

GE

Sold in February: Villa with views in Sierra Blanca. Asking price 3.500.000 €.

Is your property next?

L& L VÖ

Sold in March: Apartment on the Golden Mile Bach. Asking price 980.000 €.

Office Marbella: 952 86 84 06 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

KE

Sold in January: Apartment in Lagos de Sierra Blanca. Asking price 565.000 €.

RS

Argentina · Australia · Austria · Bahrein · Belgium · Bostwana · Chile · China · Croatia · Cyprus · Czech Republic · France · Germany · Great Britain · Holland · Hungary · Ireland · Italy · Jordan Luxemburg · Mozambique · Namibia · New Zealand · Peru · Portugal · Qatar · Romania · Russia · Slovenia · South Africa · Spain · Switzerland · Thailand · Turkey · UAE · Uruguay · USA · Zambia

F&C Marbella Essential April 2013_Layout 1 21/03/2013 11:32 Page 1

Multi-award winning luxury estate agents in 300 locations worldwide

THE GOLDEN MILE, MARBELLA – 9.995.000€ BUILT SIZE 1007m² · PLOT SIZE 2000m² · 7 BEDROOMS · 7 BATHROOMS · SEPARATE STAFF APARTMENT Ref: 103885

LOS MONTEROS, MARBELLA – 3.900.000€ BUILT SIZE 800m² · PLOT SIZE 3280m² · 8 BEDROOMS · 6 BATHROOMS Ref: Ref: 100410

This property offers the ultimate in terms of location, state of the art design and quality of build, along with breath taking sea views. Tucked away in a prime residential area behind the prestigious Golden Mile, it benefits from the peace and security that this area offers yet is only a minute’s drive from all amenities and the beach. The expansive build of this magnificent home encompasses the best in modern, yet classic design flair in this property, which ticks all the boxes.

Situated on a very expansive plot in this tranquil, exclusive residential area, this charming rustic style villa has huge potential. It has sea views and is only 500m from the gorgeous sandy beaches which are reputed to be some of the best on the Costa del Sol. In the beautiful mature gardens are a large tennis court, an outside bar with built-in BBQ, a garage for up to 4 cars, and a Jacuzzi alongside the swimming pool.

THE GOLDEN MILE, MARBELLA – 2.900.000€ BUILT SIZE 750m² · PLOT SIZE 1950m² · 5-6 BEDROOMS · 7 BATHROOMS Ref: 103449

BEACHFRONT, NEW GOLDEN MILE – 1.495.000€ price negotiable BUILT 191m² • TERRACE 203m² • 3 BEDROOMS • 3 BATHROOMS

Beautiful and impressive family villa being offered fully furnished, situated in a very sought after area of the Golden Mile, within walking distance to the beach and all amenities and only a short drive into Marbella centre or Puerto Banus. The villa also has a gym with a Turkish bath and has been built to very high specifications.

In summary, this is a wonderful opportunity to purchase a beautifully presented villa which is literally ready to walk into.

Beautiful beachfront duplex penthouse, situated on what is probably one of the best beaches on the Costa Del Sol and within walking distance to all amenities. It boasts an expansive terrace which has been partly enclosed to include a TV room, whilst the rest has magnificent sea views and a contemporary style chill-out area for further enjoyment of the views.

Ref: 98157

Fine & Country Marbella Marbella Club Hotel, Bulevar del Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, 29600 Marbella, Málaga, Spain

tel +34 952 76 40 10 email marbella@fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.com

F&C Marbella Essential April 2013_Layout 1 21/03/2013 11:32 Page 2

Marbella

LA ZAGALETA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB – 7.750.000€ Designed with an abundance of chic contemporary features

Ref: 103985

BUILT SIZE 950m² • PLOT SIZE 4237m² • 5 BEDROOMS • 5 BATHROOMS • SEPARATE STAFF ACCOMODATION • CINEMA ROOM This beautiful property benefits from spectacular sea views in its location at one of the most privileged residential areas in Europe.

The sizeable grounds have a heated infinity pool, surrounded by decking complete with a Chiringuito and barbecue area. Numerous seating areas throughout both internally and externally enable the most beneficial use of space for chilling and enjoying the perfect surroundings.

The villa is also appointed with the optimum in advanced design and engineering methods whilst ensuring aesthetic beauty and considered functionality – a timeless investment.

Stylish Family Villa “This house must be viewed to fully appreciate the exceptionally high quality” Elevated position with Golf Valley & sea views 5 en-suite bedrooms Contemporary interior design Separate staff quarters Easy to maintain garden Heated outdoor pool Tennis court Full specifications, plans, more photos and further details on www.marbelladirect.com

www.khphotography.co.uk

THE MARBELLA DIRECT COLLECTION OF FINE HOMES

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Location! Location! Location!

Stylish family villa with 620m2 constructed area, on a plot of 2,480m2.

Situated in the most exclusive area of Nueva Andalucía, this property is both private and peaceful yet only minutes away from international schools, golf courses and the shopping and nightlife of Puerto Banús.

Price on Application Call Iain Irving (+34) 607 314 126 iain@marbelladirect.com Contact rentals@marbelladirect.com for details of Summer rental prices.

РАСПОЛОЖЕНИЕ! РАСПОЛОЖЕНИЕ! РАСПОЛОЖЕНИЕ! Находящееся в самой эксклюзивной зоне Новой Андалусии это жилье, уединенное и спокойное, расположено всего в нескольких минутах от международных школ, курсов по гольфу а так же шопинга и ночной жизни Пуерто Бануса. Контактный телефон: (+34) 619 962 440 Анастасия

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publisher’s letter words BY IAIN BLACKwELL

Wedding Trends A

s we are entering what is known in these parts as La Temporada (the season), it’s a fitting time to focus on weddings, both from the perspective of those who are lucky enough to live here and find their ideal partner, and particularly on behalf of all who are becoming part of a fast-growing trend: coming to the south of Spain to get married in an exotic location with guaranteed sun for an outdoor reception.

Clearly this is the reason why so many northern Europeans and couples from even further afield are selecting the Costa del Sol as an ideal venue for a lavish wedding and these are now big business from April through September. we love romance, Here at consequently, we invite you to come with us on an exhilarating ride as we investigate current matrimonial trends, uncover the hottest honeymoon hangouts, and feature some of the most iconic weddings of all time.

We bring you sumptuous wedding gowns fresh from Barcelona Bridal week, super-romantic proposals, top wedding apps and hip hair-styles for brides. And if you can really push the boat out, what better way to arrive on your special day, in front of all of your guests, than in a Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé, complete with shades on!

To all those betrothed, here’s hoping for all the very best on the big day – may it be the happiest of your life, as mine was for me!

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we will show you where!

Front Line Beach Golden Mile: This is probably the best beachfront duplex penthouse on the market, situated in a luxury complex directly on the beach promenade of the Golden Mile. Stunning views to the sea and Puerto Banús as well as a private swimming pool on the top floor. 3 Bed., 3 bath. Living area 170 m2, terraces 60 m2.

E&V ID: W-01ERWL. Price: 1.100.000 €.

Golden Mile: Contemporary villa with breathtaking sea views, situated close to the beach and to the Marbella Club Hotel. Recently built, set on a large plot with mature gardens. Staff apartment, bodega, pool bar. 6 Bed., 6 bath. Built 730 m2, plot 2.329 m2.

E&V ID: W-00UM0R. Price: 5.500.000 €.

Golden Mile Beach: Unique opportunity! A Contemporary, very stylish villa situated just steps away from the beach, the promenade and all amenities in a very sought after community on the Golden Mile. 6 Bed, 5 bath. Built: 300 m2, plot 600 m2.

E&V ID: W-01EZCO. Price:1.950.000 €.

Sierra Blanca: Great price! Beautiful Mediterranean style villa with sea views in the gated, exclusive community of Sierra Blanca. Impressive entrance, games room, fully fitted gym, under-floor heating throughout. 5 Bed., 5 bath. Built 663 m2, plot 1.302 m2.

E&V ID: W-01EKG6. Price: 2.575.000 €.

Sierra Blanca: Fantastically priced! Classical South-West facing villa with lovely sea views in the best location. The elegant villa is very private, has mature gardens, large pool and picturesque driveway. 3 Bed., 3 bath. Built 488 m2, plot 1.233 m2.

E&V ID: W-01EV21. Price: 1.950.000 €.

Office Marbella: 952 86 84 06 · www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

Argentina · Australia · Austria · Bahrein · Belgium · Bostwana · Chile · China · Croatia · Cyprus · Czech Republic · France · Germany · Great Britain · Holland · Hungary · Ireland · Italy · Jordan Luxemburg · Mozambique · Namibia · New Zealand · Peru · Portugal · Qatar · Romania · Russia · Slovenia · South Africa · Spain · Switzerland · Thailand · Turkey · UAE · Uruguay · USA · Zambia

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trend READING / MUSIC / FILMS / GADGETS / MOTORING / TRENDS

Love is in the air and weddings are the theme this month, yet even couples busy planning their Big Day surely need a bit of distraction.

We bring you the best romantic reads, home viewing and cinema selections and invite you to show up at the church in the coolest car in town: the new Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II Drophead Coupé.

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Cinema

26

Home Viewing

28

Music

30

Books

32

Gadgets

34

The New Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II Drophead Coupé

3/21/13 6:45 PM

trend CINEMA

WORDS MARISA CUTILL

AS

e BLOCKBUSTER

OF THE MONTH

Iron Man 3 » GENRE Action Black (Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang) » DIRECTOR Shane wney Jr., Guy Pearce, Gwyneth Paltrow » ACTORS Robert Do

ilanthropic billionaire, tests his mettle as ph in aga ce on ey wn Do Robert e, he is forced to face ero, Ironman. This tim Tony Stark, and superh sonal life and Stark is ening to destroy his per to an enemy who is threat protect those closest enuity and instincts to ing his on y rel to es ced for stion plagues him: do ghout his quest, one que him from death. Throu und? or is it the other way aro the suit make the man,

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Fisher Stevens (Just a Kiss)

» ACTORS Al Pacino, Alan Arkin, Christopher Walken

Stand Up Guys

Al Pacino plays Val, an ex Baltimore gangster in his 60s who has just been released after spending 28 years in prison. He reunites with his old friend, Doc (Christopher Walken) and as the two reminisce about their golden days over endless cups of cappuccino, Val begins to suspect that Doc has been hired to kill him by their ex-boss.

Things are further fuelled by the arrival of a third ex-gang mate (Alan Arkin), whose there to entice them to join him for one last heist.

» DIRECTOR Josh Boone (debut film) » GENRE Drama/Comedy » ACTORS Greg Kinnear, Jennifer

Connelly, Lily Collins, Kristen Bell

Stuck in Love

It’s been three years since his divorce, but successful novelist Bill Borgens (Greg Kinnear) is still obsessed with his beautiful ex-wife, Erica (Jennifer Connelly). Instead of working on his new book, he spends his hours spying on his ex and her new lover and still sets a place for her at the Thanksgiving table, despite the fact that she never shows up. Bill’s teenage kids are also struggling in their love lives; his daughter, Samantha, is an author who, having been deeply scarred by her mother’s departure, has built a wall around herself that stops her from getting close to men. Bill’s son, Rusty, meanwhile, is in love with a girl with an abusive boyfriend. When Erica reunites with the family to attend the signing of Samantha’s first book, old wounds are re-opened and new ones are inflicted, as the family struggles to get over the past and rebuild their fragile relationship.

» GENRE Science Fiction » DIRECTOR Joseph Kosinski (TRON: Legacy)

» ACTORS Tom Cruise, Morgan

Freeman, Olga Kurylenko

Oblivion

Oblivion centres on a late 21stcentury repairman called Jack Harper (Tom Cruise) who is sent to Planet Earth – now abandoned by the human race following an alien invasion 60 years previously – on a routine patrol mission. While carrying out his work, he discovers a woman lying in the wreck of a spacecraft.

The woman is in ‘deltasleep’ mode, but when she wakes up, her story will force Jack to question everything he believes in.

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Seth Gordon (Horrible Bosses)

» ACTORS Melissa McCarthy,

Jason Bateman, Amanda Peet

Identity Thief

Melissa McCarthy, the hilarious comedic actress who stole the show in Bridesmaids, stars as Diana, a credit card junky whose idea of a good time is shopping ‘til she drops on someone else’s tab: Sandy Bigelow (Jason Bateman) is a salesman from another state whose identity she has assumed in order to feed her materialistic frenzy. The real Sandy Bigelow has only one week to find her and recover his impeccable credit standing but will Diana drive him crazy in the process?

» GENRE Drama/Comedy

DIRECTOR Jonathan Levine (The Wackness) » ACTORS Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, John Malkovich, Dave Franco

Warm Bodies

Much hype is already surrounding this soon-to-be-released film, which taps into the young adult market left behind by the demise of the Twilight saga. Based on a novel by Isaac Marion, Warm Bodies is a modern, comical Romeo and Juliet, whose protagonists are a handsome young zombie (Nicholas Hoult) and the sympathetic girlfriend of one of his victims.

24 / APRIL 2013 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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Marbella Hill Club Very likely the best two bedroom apartment available in Marbella today, definitely its best outdoor living room.

Set in the hills of Marbella with spectacular views over the coast onto Gibraltar and Africa. Open plan designer kitchen, large living/dining area, two bedroom suites, large terrace with pool. Completely refurbished and beautifully furnished.

Built: 185 m2 • Terraces 136 m2 • 890.000 euros

Playa Esmeralda, Golden Mile, Marbella Frontline beach penthouse with fabulous sea views. Nice development with beautiful gardens and large communal pool and within walking distance of Puerto Banus and its amenities. Living-dining room, fitted kitchen, roof top solarium, gym, garage, storage room.

Built: 171 m² • Bedrooms: 3 • Bathrooms: 3 • 1.850.000 euros

La Zagaleta Golf & Country Club, Benahavis Understated Luxury. This elegant Villa, ideal for entertaining, is situated within the most attractive area of the Costa del Sol, the La Zagaleta Golf & Country Club. The Jaime Parladé interior designed house is just above the old golf course with great views of holes 9 and 18. Designed by star architect Cesar de Leyva was fully renovated to the highest standard in 2011. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, large kitchen, large lower ground floor with staff quarters, wine cellar, sauna and garage. The beautifully landscaped gardens were designed by well-known garden designer Gerry Huggan.

Plot: 5.520 m2 • Built: 700 m2 • 4.900.000 euros

Coral Beach, Golden Mile, Marbella Superb ground floor apartment. South facing with good sea views. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Sunny all day. Beautiful gardens with large swimming pool, separate children’s pool, children’s playground.

Direct access to the beach. Puerto Banus with its shops and restaurants is just a short stroll on the nice beach front promenade.

Built: 117 m2 • Terrace: 40 m2 • 790.000 euros

Los Monteros, Marbella A spectacular estate in Los Monteros Playa within walking distance to the beach and only 200 meters from the “La Cabane” Beach Club. Immaculate villa, ideal for entertaining. 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, 2 guest cloakrooms, tropical garden with outdoor kitchen and pool pavilion. The house is built on two levels around a central patio, has several covered and uncovered terraces and a large private pool.

Plot: 2.700 m2 • Built: 1.500 m2 • 7.950.000 euros

Urb. Coral Beach, 29602 Marbella • Tel: 34 952 765 636 klein@kleinandpartner.com • www.kleinandpartner.com 165 Klein.indd 1

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trend HOME VIEWING

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

To Rome with Love

To Rome with Love tells four different love stories, all of which are set in the Eternal City. The characters are an opera director and his wife; a newlywed couple from the province; a renowned American architect on vacation; and a middle-class Roman living with his family. The stories take place at different times, yet are connected through mood and a painstakingly unified visual scheme. Surprising things happen throughout the film: the young couple separates; the opera director discovers a reluctant singing sensation; the architect meets a younger version of himself, who in turn grows mesmerised by an enigmatic young lady. To Rome with Love once again sees Allen delving into the world of magic realism, which brings out the best in his eccentric, unpredictable characters.

» GENRE Romance » DIRECTOR Woody Allen

(Midnight in Paris)

» ACTORS Woody Allen, Penélope

The Impossible

Cruz, Jesse Eisenberg

» IMDB RATING 6.3/10

e

» GENRE Drama/True Story » DIRECTOR Juan Antonio

m o d g n i K e s Moonri

OF THE MONTH FEATURED DVD RELEASE

» GENRE

nce Comedy/Drama/Roma » DIRECTOR Wes Anderson s) (The Royal Tenenbaum

» ACTORS

yward, Jared Gilman, Kara Ha Willis ce Bru y, rra Mu Bill DB RATING 7.9/10

» IM

itten med, whimsically wr The immaculately fra year12o tw of ry sto the is Moonrise Kingdom ay aw run to and decide olds who fall in love a nd fi to pt em att an in into the wilderness, e Th . om gd ll Moonrise Kin secret cave they ca ord rec a d an t ca a s, ok bo children take only six the in el m and they rev player along with the go the sea. As the days d an e tur Na of beauty metown, ho ir the in w bre to by, trouble begins an the local sheriff and and Suzy’s parents, mined to ter de w gro ts, ou Sc astute pack of Boy childish bliss. put an end to their

Bayona (The Orphanage) » ACTORS Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor » IMDB RATING 7.6/10

The Impossible is the harrowing true story of a young family caught in the middle of a devastating tsunami in Thailand. Naomi Watts gives a powerful performance as a mother struggling to find her husband and children as she fights for her own life.

Despite the harsh realism of many of the action scenes, The Impossible is a tale of hope, extolling the virtues of family life and the strength of the human spirit.

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR David Frankel (Marley & Me)

» ACTORS Meryl Streep, Tommy

Lee Jones, Steve Carell

» IMDB RATING 6.4/10 » GENRE Drama » DIRECTOR Nicholas Jarecki » ACTORS Richard Gere, Susan Sarandon, Brit Marling » IMDB RATING 6.7/10

Arbitrage

This fascinating film about the world of high finance and white-collar fraud, sees Richard Gere in one of his best recent performances. The silver-haired thespian plays a high-flying exec who engages in what he justifies as ‘temporary, harmless’ fraud, to enable a sale worth millions, to go through. The way he does businesses symbolises the way he leads his life, since he lies his way through marriage and fatherhood and always looks after number one.

His selfish bliss comes to a screeching halt when he finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time and an astute detective grows determined to make him atone for his sins.

Hope Springs

This is a film that anyone who was been married for over 10 years will love, but anyone who is still looking for Mr. or Ms. Right will probably find a tad boring. Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones play an ageing couple who decide to seek help from a therapist (Steve Carell) after the spark disappears from their relationship. The film covers most of the major gripes plaguing longstanding couples, including arguments over romance, sex, and not feeling sufficiently loved. The actors play the somewhat jaded but still hopeful couple with plenty of panache and heart.

26 / APRIL 2013 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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trend MUSIC

¿QUÉ PASA?

WORDS RIK FOXX

A DIRE STRAITS tribute group, BROTHERS IN BAND, are playing Málaga’s Sala Paris on May 4. It’s said they put on a good show with a two-hour plus set that revives the 1992 On The Night tour. But if you want the real thing MARK KNOPFLER is at Málaga’s Plaza de Toros on July 27.

BON JOVI are touring their recently released album What About Now and Spain’s only gig is at Madrid’s Estadio Vicente Calderon on June 27.

Tickets for all the above can be purchased from FNAC and Carrefour, on line at www.ticketmaster.es or by phone on 902 15 00 25.

Also RIHANNA will grace the Bizkaia Arena, Barakaldo (Bilbao) on May 26 and Barcelona’s Palau Sant Jordi on June 1. Ticket info: www.livenation.es NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK are releasing a new album, 10, on the first of this month – is that an April fool’s joke or what?

WILL THE DIVA BIEBER UK BUBBLE BURST?

ir South American tour COLDPLAY have cancelled the hold due to political on which had already been put ll island some way off sma t tha g lvin invo unpleasantries penguins. of full the coast of Argentina that’s

So what will be the aftermath from the UK public? He never really apologised for the two-hour delay for that show in London.

Rumours suggest the ‘technical problems’ were in fact that he couldn’t get to the next level on his computer game and allegedly said, “I’ll go on when I want” which was followed by yet another ‘hissy fit’ before he finally went on stage, by which time many of the young audience had left. Had it happened in the States, the sue-happy nation would have no doubt hit him with trauma to their teenage daughter injunctions. There were also hotel problems with angry fans shouting outside and he was asked to leave one after customers complained about his diva behaviour; the tantrum throwing twit also sent back two hired Rolls-Royces because they were the wrong shade of white. Just before leaving the country he said, “I’ll never come back to the UK”. He has since withdrawn that statement – but would he be missed? Many fans said at the ill fated London gig, “This is such a waste of time and money.” His bosses reportedly gave him a 20-minute ‘serious talking-to’ via Skype from the US before he left for Portugal, where one gig was cancelled due to lack of sales after the bad publicity in the UK. He was also due in Spain for two gigs last month.

Did you know that the brat was born one month before KURT COBAIN killed himself? (which was 19 years ago this month) – he must have known what was coming.

But, saving the best ‘til last – everyone heard about him being turned away from a London nightclub on his 19th birthday but he was also refused entry to a Manchester deep house venue after a concert in the city – they said his presence would ruin the reputation of the club.

One who is not so happy about the DAVID BOWIE revival is MORRISEY; he has remastered his excellent 1989 top five single The Last Of The International Playboys and wanted to use a picture of the two for the cover. The recently returned legend blocked the request by the former SMITHS front man – so a shot with RICK ASTLEY will feature on the April 8 release instead. Another angry ex SMITH is guitarist JOHNNY MARR who has ‘forbidden’ the British Prime Minister from listening to the band’s music; and RADIOHEAD leader THOM YORKE recently said he would “sue the living sh*t out of him” if the PM used any of their music in an election campaign.

PRINCE MICHAEL JACKSON is making his acting debut in the season finale of the US teen series 90210. The 16 year-old is also the new on-air correspondent for US TV show Entertainment Tonight – I bet he won’t be interviewing his aunty JANET. Have you noticed how she hasn’t been moaning about her brother’s will of late – the reason – she secretly married her billionaire boyfriend last December. Wonder if she signed a pre-nup?

The GALLAGHER family feud has taken another twist with big brother PAUL being drawn into it after he upset LIAM who claims he encouraged guitarist JEFF WOTTON to leave BEADY EYE. Their mother recently celebrated her 70th birthday and both NOEL and LIAM said they would not attend her party if the other was going – in the end only PAUL turned up. In the meantime JAY MEHLER has taken over those guitar duties after quitting KASABIAN. KASABIAN will headline the first real concert at London’s Olympic Stadium on June 29, but it will be Irish alternative rockers KODALINE who will make history being the first band of the seven-act line-up to take to the stage.

The following day, BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN tops the bill. e

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trend BOOKS

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Weddings Let love rule this month and delve into the beautiful, intricate and wonderful world of weddings.

1 VERA WANG ON WEDDINGS

BY VERA WANG

What bride doesn’t dream of walking down the aisle in a Vera Wang dress? Wang, ‘designer to the stars’, revolutionised the bridal industry with her chic, stylish designs and, now, she is offering advice gleaned from her many years dealing with some of the world’s fussiest brides. The book includes tips on budgets, the first dance, fittings, choosing the right dress and above all, approaching your big day with an open, happy heart

2 WEDDING PLANNER

3 WEDDING TIERS

This super-structured planner, slipped within a two-ring binder, allows you to shift the order of pages, punch and keep cuttings from magazines and vital information like cards or phone numbers, in dedicated storage pockets. We found the checklist reminders particularly useful, since they go by stage, beginning with all the things you do after you get engaged (e.g. plan an engagement party, choose the bridesmaids, best men and ushers, confirm reception venue, etc.) and continuing on with what you need to get done three to six months before the wedding (e.g. ask friends to do the reading, discuss hairstyles with your hairdresser), two months before, one month before, the day before, the wedding itself and even after! Some of the info may be a bit culturally biased in favour of readers from the USA, but on the whole, it’s a handy guide to have, especially if you are faced with the daunting task of organising your own wedding.

This entertaining romantic comedy by the best-selling author of A Winter’s Tale tells the story of Josie Gray, a young wedding cake maker who has been living in the quaint village of Neatslake in Lancashire with her childhood sweetheart, Ben, since as far back as she can remember. Her tranquil world is turned upside down when her childhood friend, Libby Martin (now a wealthy socialite) returns to the village, planning a wedding that will be bigger than Kim Kardashian’s! Josie and Libby throw themselves heart-andsoul into the wedding while Ben becomes a nightmare and turns Josie all cynical about love… that is, until a handsome photographer arrives on the scene and tries to persuade pessimistic Josie to give love a second chance.

BY FRANCES LINCOLN PUBLISHERS

BY TRISHA ASHLEY

5 WEDDING BABYLON

BY IMOGEN EDWARDS-JONES

4 THE WEDDING

BY NICHOLAS SPARKS

After thirty years of marriage, Wilson Lewis, son-in-law of Allie and Noah Calhoun (of best-seller and cinematic hit, The Notebook), fears that his wife will leave him because their relationship has lost its romance. As a successful lawyer, Wilson has been a great provider for his family but he isn’t great as showing his emotions. On the cusp of his daughter’s wedding, Wilson struggles to find his way back to the heart of the woman he loves more deeply and intensely than the day he met her.

Following a week in the life of a busy wedding planner, Wedding Babylon touches on some of the most interesting themes surrounding weddings such as why some people go into debt to pay for them, how others spend as much as €35.000 on just the flowers, and why, for many control-freak brides, a wedding can be just the thing that drives them to a nervous breakdown. This book is at once funny and revealing, light and profound. The message it shares is simple: a wedding is supposed to be a celebration of true love… one can only wonder why people can insist on making it so complicated.

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trend APPS

To Go Where No Bride and Groom Have Been Before When we look back at the history of weddings, we can’t help but come to the conclusion that getting married was a much simpler and, dare I say, more romantic affair in our parents’ and grandparents’ day. Couples got engaged, announced the happy news to friends and family, purchased the appropriate wedding outfits and a simple bouquet and afterwards, a hearty feast was enjoyed by all. But of course, that was before the advent of Fussy Groom and Bride-Zilla, two creatures suspected to have surfaced for the first time during the Gordon Gekkodominated decade of the 1980s, the same era that brought us Lady Diana’s over-the-top, puff y-sleeved gown, Lionel’s

Richie’s Endless Love and Billy Ray Cyrus’ meticulously coiffed mullet. The Lady Diana – Prince Charles wedding marked a true milestone for the wedding trade, with every girl dreaming of being a princess, albeit for just one day. The boom of the celebrity magazine, alongside uplifting prognoses on Wall Street, meant the sky was the limit when it came to sourcing the perfect designer wedding dress, trendiest photographer and most luxurious reception venue in town.

Couples getting married these days have the best of both worlds; some are opting to make their big day a simple, spiritual affair, spurred on by what many are

already defining as a new collective consciousness which designates a much smaller role to the material. But then again, there will always be room for ‘the wedding of the year’ in every city, town and borough, so if you’ve just popped the question and had no idea how incredibly complicated wedding organisation could be, we suggest these top apps, designed to stop what should be the happiest day of your life from driving you crazy. Once you see how many facets are involved, you’ll stop wondering why Mrs. Robinson’s daughter ran off with the moody, vertically-challenged Dustin Hoffman in The Graduate.

Getting on that bus was simply the easiest choice!

W O RD

S P P P A O G N I T D D E W

S

SA C MAR I

U T I LL

AS

THE KNOT ULTIMATE WEDDING PLANNER:

RS E V O L H C E T FOR

This app is a great all-rounder, with everything from a wedding countdown (to the second!), checklist, easy-to-use budget tool and ideas for the dress, flowers, cake, etc. Update the app’s info from a dedicated website and glean info on the very latest trends in the trade.

WEDDING BUDGET: If you have a small budget for your wedding, this app is key. It helps you track outstanding deposits and payments and divides costs into various categories, including flowers, music, photography and bridal party attire. Decide how much money you can allocate to each category and control how much you’ve already spent. Receive reminders of due payments and view your budget on a graph.

WEDDING SCAN: The perfect app for brides and grooms who are too lazy to make a wedding list, or who don’t want to commit to just one store. Just take your smartphone along and scan the barcodes of items at any store, adding them to a centralised registry on WeddingScan.com. Items are even geo-tagged so friends and family can see exactly where you saw a particular item.

OUR WEDDING APP: Sometimes, the best photos at a wedding aren’t taken by the official photographer, but by some talented aficionado who has managed to capture the laid-back, unexpected moments that elude the keenest professional. Our Wedding App ensures that you don’t miss out on these gems, by providing a shared gallery for all your guests that can be viewed as a slideshow. There are many other interesting features, such as a downloadable invite (ideal for those who suddenly realise they’ve misplaced the invite and don’t know where the reception is). The invite even provides a GPS-based map, so you’ll always know where you’re going. Additionally, there is information on local hotels, a cab-calling feature and an open guestbook that allows you to communicate with the bride and groom.

FUN WEDDING: Who

said you needed a DJ to get your friends and family to shake it up on the dance floor? Fun Wedding invites you to listen to song samples, search by genre or year, and find handy suggestions for special moments of your reception, including the bride and groom’s first dance, father and daughter dance, the bouquet and garter toss and many more.

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VILLA MARKETING Since 1983

FRONTLINE GOLF Ref. 9579 Villa situated in Nueva Andalucia and facing southwest. Built on one level on a frontline golf plot of 1.686 m2, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, spacious lounge, separate dining room, modern kitchen, garage, heated pool. Possible to extend.

Price: ˆ 1.150.000

NUEVA NDALUCIA A Ref. 9160 Villa with fantastic panoramic views and large sunny terraces, in a gated community, with 4 bedrooms plus a small 5th bedroom with independant access, double garage and central heating.

NUEVA NDALUCIA A Ref. 9995 Villa facing south with sea views. Built on a large plot of 2.368 m2, with a large living area opening to outdoor covered terraces and an open plan kitchen.

Total of 6 bedrooms, 2 in a separate guest bungalow.

NUEVA NDALUCIA A Ref. 9464 A single storey villa in perfect condition. South facing with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, spacious living room with fireplace, separate dining room with wooden beams on ceiling, underfloor heating. Walking distance to Golf Course.

Price: ˆ 850.000

Price: ˆ 675.000

NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. 10561 Villa in very central position within walking distance to shops, restaurants and amenities, with 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, large living area, modern kitchen open to dining area. Fantastic Opportunity.

NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. 9941 Unique semi-detached, sunny villa, with beach and Puerto Banus within walking distance. This 3 bedroom villa has a private garden, private pool and private garage. Spacious new kitchen and bathrooms, no community fees.

Price: ˆ 575.000

Prices: ˆ 435.000

Casaño 10-B, Nueva Andalucía (Pass the Bullring, beside BBVA bank) Tel: 952 810 695 enquiries@villamarketing.com

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Price: ˆ 1.100.000

www.villamarketing.com Sales - Long & Short Term Rentals - Property Management

3/20/13 1:54 PM

trend MOTORING

THE NEW ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM SERIES II DROPHEAD COUPÉ

Luxury cars may come and occasionally go (does anyone remember the ill-fated Maybach?) but seemingly, Britain’s Rolls-Royce enjoys life eternal. Through numerous ‘world crises’, wars and slumps, the majestic motor car has not only survived, but has flourished in recent years.

WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ROLLS-ROYCE

A

s one might expect, the company has battled a few challenges of its own over the decades, but as part of the mighty BMW group, its future seems to be assured. Impressively, RollsRoyce still adheres to the remarkable standards of craftsmanship that set the Hon. Charles Rolls and Henry (later Sir Henry) Royce on their course back in 1906. Incidentally, the car maker separated from the aviation division many years ago, although they use the same logo – the one you might see on an engine cowling when you look out of a Boeing or Airbus window – they are different corporate entities.

The top range at Rolls-Royce is the Phantom series and it comes in Saloon, Coupé and Drophead Coupé models. ‘Drophead’ is a rather archaic term for ‘convertible’ and went out of general use decades ago but Rolls-Royce, rather charmingly, continues to use it. All three are very large cars and probably bigger than any other non-limo model built right now. This is not to say they are sluggish and unwieldy beasts, as we’ll see later.

Quite apart from its plethora of impressive

engineering and refinement qualities, the Drophead is probably the ultimate in wedding cars for those fortunate to be able to buy or hire one. If Rolls-Royce motor cars are majestic, this is the most majestic of them all. Like its hardtop Coupé stablemate, the Drophead is really designed for an owner-driver, while the more lengthy Saloon is aimed at those who have a chauffeur. The cars were re-worked in various ways for 2013 and dubbed Series II. The easiest way to tell a Series II from a Series I is that the new car has narrow rectangular primary LED headlights, rather than the round ones of the old car.

This is a two-door car and the doors hinge from the rear – another archaism from earlier motoring times. Rolls-Royce says that its styling team drew inspiration from 1930s racing yacht designers and this is very evident when opening the power hood.

After it tucks itself away, a wooden deck is revealed above the boot lid that looks for all the world as though it belongs on a classic yacht or speedboat.

Another unique touch is a bonnet fabricated from brushed stainless steel. The soft top is of the finest

materials possible for an application like this.

Rolls-Royce designers believe that owners prefer this approach rather than a folding metal hardtop.

Ian Cameron, chief designer for R-R, made the observation: “There’s nothing more romantic than sitting in a Drophead and hearing rain pattering down on the cloth hood.” He could be right, but let’s hope it doesn’t do that at any weddings that happen to be on the owner’s agenda.

The interior of this car is expectedly sumptuous with the finest of leathers, wood veneers and wool carpeting. There are many fine cars on the market from various parts of the world, but the attention to detail and sheer quality of this Phantom is almost beyond belief. Naturally, when you get behind the wheel of a car like this one, there’s a great sense of well-being and safety. The cockpit ambiance is simply unmatched in the industry. In some respects, the controls and switchgear are not easy to figure out, but owner familiarity would soon take care of that. Switches work with a fine precision – it’s more like using a costly Leica camera than operating a car.

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Many of the convenience features in the Phantom are highly innovative and these are so numerous, it would take another feature to describe them.

Since the doors are nice and wide, it’s easy for rear passengers to climb back there.

Technically, the car is just as interesting as its looks would indicate. Under the bonnet is a 6.8-litre V-12 that, unsurprisingly, has BMW origins. Few people could fault that choice, for it brings a vast range of engineering and design expertise to the Rolls-Royce stable. No doubt the people at Rolls added a few tricks of their own to the drivetrain and certainly the car is as silky-smooth, flexible and responsive as it could possibly be. In years past, Rolls-Royce refused to publish horsepower ratings, stating that the power levels of its cars were ‘adequate’ but nowadays, they’re not so coy. The output of the big V-12 is given as 453-horsepower and it certainly helps coax sports car performance out of what is obviously a heavy car, tipping the scales at 3,050 kg.

The 8-speed automatic transmission is new for 2013 and it’s said to improve fuel economy by 10 per cent.

Having driven a number of Rolls-Royce over the years, I’m always surprised that once behind the wheel, the car feels quite light and spritely and it boasts very impressive response. While it’s as comfortable as a car can be, winding it up on a twisty road is a more rewarding experience than might be imagined. The car can be tossed about with commendable agility and there’s plenty of power and flexibility on hand. I’m not saying it drives like a sports car, but it comes closer than you might think, given its size. It also has all the electronic safety aids you’d expect for an advanced 2013 car and everyone aboard will sense its security and solidity as soon as they take off up the road.

A car like the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead isn’t simply transportation, as it’s high price very much implies. It’s more than just another luxury car – it’s a living icon of another age where craftsmanship was valued above all else. And although I won’t be lining up to buy one any time soon, I’m happy that it’s still possible to acquire a rolling work of art like this.

Z ENGINE 6.8-litre V-12 Z TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic Z ACCELERATION Zero to 100 km/h in approx.

5.5-seconds Z TOP SPEED Approx. 250 km/h (electronically limited) Z I LIKED Splendid looks and a brand history that seems to ennoble anyone who drives one.

Supreme quality and workmanship in every respect. No car built has the amazing presence and ambiance of a Rolls-Royce Drophead. As far as prestige goes, this is as good as it gets.

Z I DIDN’T LIKE Not the easiest car to park and something of a challenge on narrow streets, but then, you could always buy a (smaller) Ghost model. It’s very costly, but it’s easy to justify this when examining and driving the car.

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES Bentley GTC perhaps, but in general, the Phantom Drophead is out there on its own.

Z WHO DRIVES ONE? People who simply want the very best there is in a car. Buyers with a passion for fine quality and matchless refinement who have the means to handle the hefty price tag – it’s more expensive than a brand new Cessna 172 aircraft.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY Approximately €350.000 – see your R-R agent for details as each car is essentially hand-tailored.

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· B E AC H F RO N T P U E N T E RO M A N O ·

Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n - 29602 Marbella · Málaga · Spain · Tel. +34 952 82 09 00 - Fax +34 952 77 57 66 hotel@puenteromano.com · www.puenteromano.com

thefocus CULTURE / HISTORY / FEATURES

FAMOUS PEOPLE / INTERVIEWS / HUMOUR

A wedding edition would not be complete without a presentation of the hottest wedding trends or a feature on the most iconic weddings in history. We also check out some utterly amazing proposals and meet talented designers, Rosa Clarรก, and Mariola Sanabria Ruiz.

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Wedding Trends

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Iconic Weddings

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Most Romantic Proposals

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Rosa Clarรก

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Mariola Sanabria Ruiz of Mery Hello

3/21/13 6:44 PM

THE FOCUS weddings

In recent years weddings have undergone a transformation, evolving into everbigger and more fl amboyant events. Where a marriage ceremony was once a rather sober affair it has now become a personalised celebration tailored exactly to your desires. In the process our whole perception and experience of a wedding day has changed greatly. The wedding march was last heard about a decade ago, replaced by Whitney Houston and other personal favourites; weddings are now increasingly themed and really it is all about one huge party that starts with the hen and stag nights/weekends and ends with the reception party or even a post-party breakfast.

The resources and planning mobilised to make these events happen are little short of a major logistical exercise, involving a team of specialised professionals and all manner of props and settings. One thing you really cannot plan for, though, is the unpredictability of Northern European weather, and so more and more people are deciding to have their weddings in the sun. Thanks to its proximity and good support services, Marbella is rapidly becoming one of the prime destinations on the international wedding map, and a convenient location for an all-in wedding experience designed to dazzle the senses.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

W

Planning and logistics Organising a wedding on your own doorstep requires a lot of work and preparation, but doing so a couple thousand kilometres away is an even more daunting task – especially when you bear in mind that your guests will be flying in from all over. In addition to the many aspects involved in creating the wedding itself you will have to think of accommodation, transport, entertainment and, quite frankly, shepherding large numbers of people around and making sure they’re all present in the right place at the appointed hour.

Though the guys are becoming more involved with it all, a wedding is still very much the bride’s special moment, so a wedding planner will sit down with a couple and discuss their requirements with a view to making it a day fit for a princess. He or she will begin to create a virtual storyboard around the ideas of their clients but also be able to draw on experience to fill in the blanks and point out the practicalities. Once you scan the list of elements that go into a modern wedding it is not uncommon to be overcome by a sense of nervous giddiness. This is usually the point at which many a groom graciously bows out and cedes executive power to his bride to be.

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s d n e r g T n i d d e W 21 E H T FOR

ST

Y R U T N CE

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The look of love

r o t c a f w Wo

etition t of comp n elemen a so a lot is n e re e m t th tate t, erfect, To say tha a bit of an unders not just p is is s g g w in in d th d e in w every ctor is no aking sure ive as well. Wow fa m ing g n o ra u s o e c rid impress tion, en a n is m n a a d rg y o fluent ative ways but prett ortant as nd imagin p a im w e s n a h it every b ing up wit keep com venue, people to rrange a a to ly p s. makegh sim to impres isn’t enou e, catering, hair and it t a th s k course a This mean wers, a wedding ca hy and of p ra o g fl , to n o o h an and ent, p decorati om, best m g, ntertainm ro e g , e rt o th p r s n fo up, tra a-ma-zin ostumes has to be ress and c vative wedding d our. All of the above n in le as o hon d if possib f. n maids of a r to c w fa an think o full of wo e as you c and uniqu

In other words: this is where the work really starts. Make choices, pick the people that will make them happen and keep an eye on the budget while you’re at it. The planner will have to know what kind of look the bride is after before he or she arranges the hair stylist and makeup artist. With simple strapless wedding dresses being very much in favour at the moment the emphasis is on hairstyles that are partly up and partly flowing over the shoulders. Makeup tends on the heavy side, and is very much slanted towards looking like a model on the day.

With everyone turned out looking dashing and dazzling you mustn’t forget to record it all for posterity.

And no, your uncle’s handicam or amateur photography won’t do. These days couples contract a specialised wedding photographer well in advance. The wedding photographer is a crucial element of a wedding day, for he or she has to have the ability to catch the best moments without being in the way. The really good ones know how to engage people when necessary and then fade into the background and let everyone get on with having a good time. This way they not only show everybody looking their best but also capture the joy and emotion of the day, for it is this that will mark the occasion in years to come.

Like many of the other wedding professionals, the wedding photographer puts in a long day, often starting during the nervy preparations and running all the way through to the late-night partying. The moment between when the newlyweds emerge from the chapel, get in their limousine (another item to be organised and ticked off the list) up to when they turn up at the reception traditionally provides the photographer’s best window of opportunity for some stylised images of husband and wife. In Marbella, the beach is a preferred location for this, though parks, village backdrops and open country feature too.

Selecting and dressing a venue While the bride is out choosing her wedding dress and the groom is quite possibly trying on coat tails for the first time in his life, a professional wedding planner will be scouting around for the ideal venue, given the preferred setting, the number of guests and the overall nature or theme of the day. A lot of brides want to get married in a chapel, so the process starts with finding a suitably charming little church not too far from the reception venue. If this quaint chapel is located within a typically rustic Andalusian setting such as La Virginia or Marbella’s old town, so much the better.

Popular venues for receptions include country properties or grand historical buildings that cater specially for the wedding trade, while others may want to go with a modern villa, a stylish boutique hotel or a resort set right on the beach. The choosing of the venue is just the opening act though. Now you’ll have to decide on the decoration, a possible colour theme, flower arrangements, the menu, plan in speeches, music and entertainment, and where the dance floor will go.

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Party time By the time the couple arrive at the reception venue their friends and family will be there waiting for them, and it will be too late to fix anything major – so you better hope that it’s all been organised well and runs smoothly and efficiently. Quite frankly, when all repair to the dining room or marquee, a combination of Champagne and excited chatter to the backdrop of a Mariachi Band will have calmed nerves, and by the time the speeches begin most couples are beyond caring and can really begin to relax and enjoy themselves.

No such luck for the planners and others working hard to keep the waiter service flowing, ensure everyone is well watered and give no-one cause to complain about the menu.

When the entertainment arrives the ice is usually well and truly broken, and the first signs of ‘bad’ behaviour begin to surface. After all, today’s weddings are a celebration, in many cases complete with live musicians followed by a professional DJ whose skill ensures the many different age groups are all lured on to the dance floor. Given the Marbella climate and the local knack for partying, many a ‘reception’ lasts well into the wee hours of the morning.

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no, it t say, but you migh s, above d n d e e b it ri s where ing desc d d e om w e And that’ hile th ifferent fr ou see, w dy quite d re us, this a e lr a d n doesn’t. Y ry a befo ntempora tless generations w is fully co un o eeking ne c s f d o n e a c g n in e ri lv e o v p e x e iv ver re g n the e that is fore ddings are therefo ed e is a genre n. W esign expressio and novelties, all d forms of the s d st tren tter than to the late m fun, fab and be e ar. to make th ou went to last ye one y

Themed revelry

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ds n e r t w e N

A huge thing right now is themed weddings, following on from the themed stag and hen dos that have been terrorising unsuspecting visitors to bars and clubs for some time now. The latter naturally also have Marbella – or should I say Puerto Banús – firmly on their radar, and likewise can count on specialist event organisers to lay it all on for them. Boy or girl, it’s silly outfits, lots of late nights, strippers, dancing and sexiness they want – and get. Don’t be surprised to see grown men running around in nappies or onesies, or groups of lively women in matching outfits and nametags.

The girls love to chill out and recover at a beach club by day, get picked up in a stretch limousine and hit the town by night, when strippers and cheeky butlers add to the fun. The boys, meanwhile, have started liking the idea of a boat party, complete with bunny girls and Ibiza-style antics. The more earnest of revellers might also organise an adventure trial in the countryside, but for the most part it’s absolute hedonism, midget strippers included.

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It is from the stag and hen dos that weddings have inherited their hedonistic feel and whacky themes.

The latter can now range from simple pink or white colour themes to more specific ones, like sporty, sexy, tropical or even Goth and Vampire weddings.

You can even arrange for magicians, performers and Alice in Wonderland characters on stilts to be part of the proceedings.

The traditional white or demure pastel-tinted tiered cake with wedding figurines on top has been well and truly replaced by boldly designed and brightly coloured cup cakes, while well-stocked chocolate bars and a second buffet or sandwiches at dawn form part of the refreshments for those who continue to party on into the early hours.

Even the way you invite your guests to record the day has changed. At one point putting disposable cameras on guests’ tables was the done thing, but now this has evolved into full-blown photography booths complete with a range of backgrounds and costumes to capture the fun of the moment and satisfy our need for posing and pulling funny faces.

The trendy wedding party will also have such diversions as a vodka and/or tequila bar, where people slam shots between dances to keep them going all night.

There may even be a good old-fashioned conga line, often leading straight to the breakfast buffet the following morning. But then there are also those who wish to bring back a touch of decorum to the event. They might organise afternoon teas with harpists or violinists in a pretty setting, actually include a religious ceremony in the wedding itself and leave wedding favours for their guests.

The latter have been around in some form or another for a long time – in some countries in the shape of sugared almonds, in others a piece of the wedding cake to take home, but today the wedding favour tends to be a little gift, like a mini bottle of brandy for the gents and in Spain an embossed fan for the ladies.

From ‘My big fat Gypsy wedding’ to a more classical event, weddings can be wonderful moments full of emotion, joy and beauty – and more and more people are choosing to celebrate them here in Marbella. The weather, scenery and great back-up services bring not just betrothed from the British Isles, but also other parts of Europe, and in addition to Christian and non-religious weddings, Marbella has also become popular for lively Jewish and Hindu ones. Characterised by gorgeous costumes and glamorous dress, the latter adds a distinct element of exoticism to Marbella’s growing reputation as a romantic destination of choice. e

© Daniel Posner www.aerialphotographyspain.com

The latest novelties

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THE FOCUS weddings

WORLD’S MOST ICONIC WEDDINGS The Truth Behind the F airytale WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Those who are fortunate enough to recall the collective euphoria on the day Prince Charles took 19-year-old Diana Spencer as his bride, probably discovered something important about themselves and society as a whole: despite not having a clue as to the lifestyle, love story or secrets shared by famous couples, few events are quite as worthy of our attention, as a celebrity wedding. The beauty, youth and social standing of famous brides and grooms somehow strike a chord in our social consciousness, reinforcing the validity of ideas like lasting love, fidelity and commitment. Anybody who has celebrated their own wedding, of course, knows that making the magic last beyond the honeymoon is hard work; the divorce rate hovers at around 50 per cent in Western countries and as Psychologist, Dr Harriet Lerner once said, “If any other institution had a 50 per cent failure rate, we would have to seriously question the rules and roles of the institution.”

But we’re not ready to give up on romance yet! This month, we bring you the best and the worst of some of the most iconic weddings in history.

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T o o

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Jacqueline & John John F. Kenney was often touted by the press as ‘Washington’s Gay Young Bachelor’ but as the lead-in to his senatorial race heated up, his family persuaded him to put an (arguably temporary) end to his loving ways. In 1952, he met Jacqueline Bouvier, a New York socialite who figured high on the list of eligible debutantes. The 23-year-old beauty had serious credentials behind her, having been educated at the Sorbonne and working as a photographer for a newspaper in Washington.

The couple’s first meeting took place at a dinner party of mutual friends and Jack was quite taken by her beauty from the word go: “I reached across the asparagus and asked her for a date,” he told the press. The courtship continued for a year, culminating in a spectacular society wedding in 1953. The church wedding was attended by 750 guests and an additional 450 people joined the reception at Hammersmith Farm. Jackie, dressed in an ethereal ivory silk gown by African-American designer, Ann Lowe, danced with her new husband to the music of the Meyer Davis Orchestra, who played a song that was dear to their hearts: I Married an Angel. Jack was 36. Jacqueline was 24.

Despite a marriage fraught with rumours of infidelity, the couple were said to have a deep intellectual connection. Jack was immensely proud of his wife’s intellectual prowess, once opening a book on ancient civilisations and testing her on a wide variety of themes before the watchful eyes of their friends.

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Grace & Rainier

Marilyn & Joe The Mirror Cracked

In April, 1955, the USS Constitution set sail from New York carrying a golden haired symbol of the American dream: award-winning actress Grace Kelly, then aged 26, engaged to marry Rainier, a 32-year-old Prince she had seen only three times in her life. It didn’t matter that his kingdom was about the same size as Central Park, or that wagging tongues pointed to his wild bachelor ways; nor was much attention given to the fact that the Prince hardly seemed to have fallen head-over-heels, acknowledging many years later that it definitely wasn’t love at first sight. Kelly was about to make the ultimate cultural conquest: marrying into the ancient European nobility, and the world was ready to celebrate her feat. The award-winning actress had always said that, despite feeling like it was the right time in her life to marry, she knew it was a gamble, and the many ups and downs of her life as a Princess, mother and wife, were far from the stuff dreams are made of.

On her wedding day, however, Kelly played the part perfectly. Wearing a dress that took 35 people in the MGM Studios six weeks to sew, she took Rainier as her husband in front of the watchful eyes of 30 million people. Within her pearlised wedding shoes, a penny was hidden for good luck.

The couple had a second, civil wedding, inviting the entire population of Monaco (some 3,000 subjects) to the reception. The gift list was long and lavish and included a 147-foot yacht (a present from Aristotle Onassis) and a magnificent Rolls-Royce from the people of Monaco. Of the big event, Oscar de la Renta said: “On her wedding day, Grace Kelly gave new meaning to the word icon. Her whole look, from the regal veil to the feminine lace details and the conservative gown, made her an ageless bride.”

Grace Kelly enthusiasts know that her life in Monaco was far from perfect. The star yearned to relaunch her acting career but Rainier refused; as their rebellious children grew, distance and tension ensued. Grace found solace by immersing herself in charity work and poetry, sadly passing away in a harrowing accident at the age of 53. The Rover P6 driven by her daughter, Princess Stephanie, was crushed into a cube and allowed to sink to the bottom of the beautiful Mediterranean sea. With it went our hopes and dreams for the woman hailed as the most beautiful in the world.

The Picture Queen Becomes a Princess

It was touted as the ultimate all-American romance: the tall, handsome baseball legend was about to wed the country’s leading Hollywood star. But one of the most highly publicised weddings in the world lasted less than a year: from Janary, 1954, to October, 1954.

Joe DiMaggio had been obsessed with Monroe since he first saw her shine on the silver screen.

Unable to hold back his desire, he asked a friend to arrange a date and the sparks flew almost immediately. The press went crazy, searching out new occasions to photograph them together, but the couple was surprisingly homey, choosing to stay home curled up by the fireplace above the dizzy heights of the social circuit.

Two years after meeting, they were married in a highly discrete civil ceremony in San Francisco, the news of which was unfortunately leaked to the press by one of Marilyn’s colleagues. Mobbed by reporters and fans at the door of the City Hall, Marilyn and Joe escaped to Japan for their honeymoon, but their bliss was blighted by Joe’s jealousy over the attention garnered by his buxom blonde spouse.

DiMaggio is said to have blown a fuse when watching Marilyn film the notorious scene in Billy Wilder’s The Seven Year Itch, where she stands over a subway grate and lets the air blow her skirt up. As Marilyn recorded take after take of the scene, the cheering of the crowd was said to have made Joe feel extremely humiliated.

Marilyn filed for divorce soon after, citing her husband’s ‘mental cruelty’ as the primary cause.

Funnily enough, DiMaggio always remained true to Marilyn, signing her out of a psychiatric clinic in 1961 and taking her to a training camp to rest and recoup her strength. It was also Joe who arranged her funeral when she tragically passed away, sending roses to her grave every week until he passed away in 1999.

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Ava & Frank Ava Gardner may have been married three times and relentlessly pursued torero, Luis Miguel Dominguín, but the statuesque beauty was crystal clear when it came to identifying the love of her life in her autobiography: that man was ol’ blue eyes, Frank Sinatra. The crooner was married at the time he met Gardner, in the year 1948. Frank was standing on the terrace of his Hollywood penthouse with his friend, songwriter Sammy Cahn, when the latter looked down and pointed to a small house embedded in the woods: “Do you know who lives there?” he said, “Ava Gardner!” The young film star had long tickled Sinatra’s fancy (albeit onscreen) so he wasn’t able to help himself.

He yelled out, “Ava! Ava Gardner! We know you’re down there!”; imagine his surprise when a window opened and there was the lovely brunette, waving hello!

Frank realised that he had in fact met Ava before, a long time ago, when she was just an 18-year-old budding starlet.

Now at 23, she was twice-divorced and old enough to properly pursue (‘properly’ may not actually be the most fitting of words, since Frank was married at the time). “I damn well knew he was married… and married men were not high on my hit parade,” claimed Ava, who surreptitiously succumbed to Sinatra’s charm. “He was handsome, with his thin, boyish face, bright blue eyes and incredible grin. And he was so enthusiastic, and invigorated, clearly pleased with life and, at that moment, with me.”

S m o u l d e r i n g

Ava and Frank first flirted at a party, knocking back highballs, holding hands and eventually kissing. He took her home and tried to unzip her dress, she said, yet despite her notorious liberalism, she made him wait. The next time they saw each other, months later, they made love. “It was magic.

We became lovers for ever, eternally. Big words, I know, but I truly felt that no matter what happened, we would always be in love.”

The couple married in a small civil ceremony in 1951, with Ava wearing a short dress and Frank a suit and tie. The simplicity of their celebration was certainly contrasted by the complexity of their relationship, which was dominated

by Ava’s keen possessiveness, infidelity and short temper.

“I’ll never figure you out,” Humphrey Bogart once told

P a s s i o n

Gardner, “Half the world’s female population would throw themselves at Frank’s feet and you are flouncing around with guys who wear capes and ballerina slippers.”

Perhaps this ill-fated pair of lovers were too similar for their marriage to ever work out; both were said to have an insatiable appetite for sex, drinks, cigarettes and food; both feared falling asleep, in case they accidentally sank to death’s door; both hated being alone. Ava began having notorious affairs with her Director and other crew members while filming a Western in the Rockies; she and Frank celebrated their first anniversary at a distance and Ava ironically remarked, “It was quite an occasion for me. I had been married twice before but never for a whole year!”

When Ava finally decided to put an end to the marriage, Frank slit a wrist in a desperate attempt to hang on to the woman he could not live without. But some things are just not meant to be.

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27 bedroom property, beach side San Pedro - Marbella

Direct from the owners this 27 bedroom Cortijo style property is just 3 minutes from Puerto Banus and features: • 6,800 square metre secluded plot • Beautiful parkland style gardens • 27 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms • 1,526 sq. metres built - scope for more • Commercial kitchen / large lounge area • Car park for 18 cars / Office facility • Pool / physiotherapy room - gym • Short walk to beach

This stylish and tranquil property is suitable for use as a clinic (for which there is an existing licence), a boutique hotel, an educational facility or a private house with a difference. The property would benefit from some updating but could also be immediately fully operational if required.

Price guide: 3.5 million euros - (agents welcome)

Telephone (34) 610 645487 or email: cpenquiries@gmail.com

Priscilla & Elvis H e a r t b r e a k

T h e

R e v i v a l

o f

R o m a n c e

Kathryn & William On April 29, 2011, a young couple who had met and fallen in love at the University of St. Andrews, sealed their love with a kiss from the balcony of Buckingham Palace before an audience of 36.7 million viewers around the world. As befits a royal wedding of the highest order, the event featured state carriages, Footguards and Household Cavalry, racking up a bill of over £20 million.

Not that anyone was counting; this celebration of love, between Lady Diana’s oldest son William and his betrothed, Kathryn, was a long-awaited affair that put an end to the uncomfortable restlessness that pervaded British society since Diana’s demise. No longer would appearances be allowed to deceive; the young couple are as real and modern as can be, having studied, lived together and, according to Prince William, “practised too long”, before they finally decided to make it official. The news of Kathryn’s pregnancy rocked the world in a good way, for though the couple symbolically takes Diana with them wherever they go (through the beautiful engagement ring often sported by Kathryn on her left finger), they are also harbingers of a new future where the pursuit of happiness is as much a royal’s right, as it is yours or mine. e

H o t e l

Who could possibly forget Priscilla’s exquisite beehive hairdo and Elvis’ ardent look of love as he reached over to kiss his youthful bride on their wedding day? The iconic couple first met in Germany, when Elvis was serving in the army in 1959. Priscilla was only 14 years old then, but she made a big impression on the King, so much so that upon his return to the US, he persuaded her parents to send her to Los Angeles, promising that she would write them every day.

Little did they know that upon arrival in the US, Elvis whizzed Priscilla off to Las Vegas, paying a staff member to write her parents daily postcards from LA! In 1963, Priscilla moved to the US permanently, enrolling in an all-girls Catholic school in Memphis and living in a separate house from Elvis (this arrangement didn’t last very long, as soon she was spending countless days – and nights – at Graceland with the singing sensation).

Priscilla remained in Memphis while Elvis went to Hollywood to film Viva Las Vegas with the woman whom biographers have identified as ‘the love of his life’: explosive actress, AnnMargret. Unfortunately for the latter, Elvis succumbed to the pressure exerted by Priscilla’s parents to marry their daughter; Elvis had been having a relationship with a minor and her parents threatened to expose the sordid details if he didn’t honour his promise to make it legal. Ann-Margret probably never stood a fighting chance: Elvis’ mother, with whom he had a uniquely strong bond, had always warned him to stay away from women in showbusiness.

On May 1, 1967, Elvis and Priscilla married at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, in an eight-minute ceremony that was televised around the world. The couple divorced in 1972, following years of infidelity and neglect. “What really hurt was that his attempt at reconciliation had come too late and that he was not sensitive to me as a woman,” said Priscilla, in her attempt at explaining the failure of a marriage which, it could be argued, should never have happened at all.

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“ Wh e n you are s er i ou s ab o u t R eal Es tate”

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Truly stunning private Villa, Guadalmina Alta - Set in a prestigious area - Built to highest standards - Private pool and garden with lovely balinese style outside chill out area - Large basement with storage and extra bedroom and bathroom - Four bedrooms, four bathrooms

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ma r be l l a -e sta te s.com Tel. +34 952 90 42 44 info@marbella-estates.com 165 Marbella Estates.indd 1

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THE FOCUS weddings

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2

The WoRld’s MosT RoMAnTIC 1 - Isaac & Amy Grammy award-winning artist, Bruno Mars’ Marry You was one of the hippest, catchiest tunes to hit the airwaves last year. Like most of his songs, it was hopelessly romantic, unabashedly youthful, simply spontaneous.

Yet, spontaneity wasn’t exactly on the mind of young actor Isaac Lamb, from Portland, Oregon, when he decided to propose to his girlfriend of three years, Amy Frankel: “I knew I wanted to do something spectacular,” Isaac told Discovery News, “and that I wanted to incorporate friends and family into the proposal itself. I was running on

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the treadmill and a flash of inspiration happened.” His idea? A collective ‘lip dub’ of Marry You involving painstaking choreography, meticulous timing and the participation of over 60 friends and family.

The six-minute proposal went something like this: Isaac’s brother asked Amy to sit in the open trunk of a Honda CRV, telling her she had to listen to a song. As Amy slapped the set of headphones on, the Bruno Mars track started playing and the car began slowly moving down the street. Before Amy’s eyes, everyone she most loved in her life began appearing, lip-singing different lines while keeping to a complex

choreography. Those who were out of town made a ‘special appearance’, singing their lines via Skype on laptop computers. Two of the Skype proposers were Amy’s parents (her mother was wearing her own wedding dress). At the end of the song, her future husband finally appeared, singing the final lines of the song and presenting her with a ring, which she accepted through sobs of joy.

This six-minute proposal has (thus far) received close to 18 million views.

When Bruno Mars discovered it he tweeted: “Congrats to Isaac Lamb and future Mrs.… I don’t think I could’ve made a better music video for this song.

Thank you.” To view this magical moment,

search for Isaac’s Live Lip-Dub Proposal on YouTube.

2 - Ryan & Carlie When pilot, Ryan Thompson decided to propose to his girlfriend, Carlie Kenney, it was only logical that he should decide to do it ‘up in the air’. Ryan took Carlie on a romantic flight above the skyscraperstrewn city of Chicago and all seemed to be going swimmingly when suddenly, the plane began to rock turbulently and Ryan announced that the controls were not responding. He asked Carlie to read him the ‘Ring Engagement Procedure’ in the emergency plan. The first line read, ‘Determine if he is a good mate’ and the

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3 4 Wedding ProPosals next, ‘Note: He will always love and honour you’. Finally, the manual instructed her: ‘Answer. Will you marry me?’. As Carlie suddenly realised she had been tricked, Ryan pulled out a beautiful ring and she (surprisingly!) accepted his proposal despite admitting, “I genuinely believed we were going to die!” The video has had over four million views. To view it, search for In Descent Proposal on YouTube

3 - steven & irene This proposal stands out for the exact opposite reason to the previous one: its discretion. Photographer, Steven McConnell chose an imposing cliff on Bondi Beach in Sydney, “precisely

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because I wanted it to be an intimate, private affair between just Irene and I. I knew that the downside of doing it that way would mean no photos.” But here comes the surprise factor: there were photos! Several metres down, standing on the sandy shores of Bondi, another photographer, Michael Keane, was shooting the landscape and he didn’t even notice that he had captured Steven and Irene’s special moment until he got home. Keane posted the pictures on Reddit in an attempt to track down the mysterious couple. “I was really glad when the photos surfaced and when it went viral it was fantastic for our parents and grandparents to see how it

all happened,” said the groom. View the special moment here: http://oi46.tinypic. com/9thh1z.jpg

4 - david & nicki In August last year, The New York Times journalist, David Pogue proposed to the woman of his dreams by creating a fake movie trailer that started out like your typical romantic comedy but gradually revealed itself as a thinly veiled version of David and Nicki’s own love story. At the end of the trailer, the lights went on and David proposed, receiving a resounding “Yes!”. This video simply cannot be missed. View it on: www.vimeo. com/47668788.

5 5 - howard & Beth After all that romanticism, we just had to burst your bubble with this irreverent proposal, purveyed by rebel-rousing radio DJ, Howard Stern. If you share his no-bullshit philosophy, you’ll like the unadorned way he got down to business.

Stern, 54, asked leggy model, Beth Otrosky, 36, to strip to her ‘Victoria’s Secrets’ on Valentine’s Day before presenting her with a 5.2-carat diamond ring, said to be worth some €200.000.

Stern ‘gave in’ after vowing to never marry again after the failure of his first marriage (which lasted a surprising 20 years).

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Costas

Casas

Costas

Casas

Costas

Casas

THE FOCUS people

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alented designer. Shrewd businesswoman.

Loving mother. Rosá Clará is all these things and more, an example to behold in hard times, especially for women, who still have far to go in terms of breaking the stronghold defended by men in the board room. The rise of the Rosa Clará group has been meteoric and exemplary. The design house, founded in 1995, grew by seven per cent in 2011 and 10 per cent in 2012, boasting an annual turnover of €76 million. The group comprises more than 2,200 sales points in over 60 countries and in excess of 111 exclusive stores in countries as far as the Philippines, Iran, Kuwait and Turkey. “My aim is to open a store in every single big city in the world,” says the designer, her thirst for success seemingly unquenchable.

If Rosa Clará had been any less bold, less ‘herself’, she would probably have made it to the Board of Directors anyway. Born in Barcelona in 1959 and pursuing studies in law (a degree she never actually completed), Rosa accepted a post in the late 1980s at what is still Spain’s number oneselling bridal wear house, Pronovias (which boasts an annual turnover of €150 million). There she would head the Store Management Department, until she had her son, Daniel, at the age of 32.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF UGO CAMERA AND BARCELONA BRIDAL WEEK

The Magnificent Obsession of

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Perhaps it was motherhood that provided the required spark she needed to branch out on her own. Perhaps it was her frustration at viewing what she now deems the “staid, unfashionable dresses that were all made of polyester… all of them looked alike”. Rosa dreamed of offering blushing brides designs that reflected the very latest trends in Paris, London and Milan, and which were faithful to each bride’s own personality. “I opened my first store in Barcelona’s Paseo de Gracia, not with a view to working as a designer but to sell the work of others,” she says. Just a year had passed, however, before Rosa began putting pencil to paper in an effort to give life to her own creations, despite never having received formal training in the trade. “We nearly died of success,” she remarks, “we didn’t know where to find all the resources we needed to sew all the dresses we had already sold!”

One event Rosa rarely mentions in the press is the tension between her brand and her former employer’s. Soon after launching, she was accused of copying certain designs and of illegally utilising contacts acquired during her time at Pronovias.

In 2005, Pronovias dropped the case, with both signing a peace treaty. Funnily enough, to this day, the tension between the two houses is said to be palpable and neither mentions the other in press interviews.

Rosa Clará’s success has often been analysed, questioned, reduced to its bare bones. Some say her secret lies in having seduced Spanish celebrities such as Paulina Rubio, Paula Echevarría and Inés Sastre to don her designs for their big day; others say it is her eye for creating, rather than merely re-interpreting, existing fashion. Still others say she possesses a unique knack to get the right people on her side (iconic designers such as Christian Lacroix and Karl Lagerfeld are but two designers who have granted Clára the right to manufacture and distribute their designs both in Spain and internationally). Clará herself seems at a loss to explain her rocketing success: “It was never my intention to achieve such great success.

I simply opened a bridal shop, a friend fell in love with it and before I knew it, my first franchise was born,” The designer does concede, however, that the major driving force behind her new baby was “work, work and more work.” Not one to rest on her laurels, Clará continues to find new ways to grow: “I haven’t even finished one project when I’m starting another!” she laughs.

Rosa Clará is a hands-on manager who oversees every aspect of production, “from A to Z”. She is also the Head Designer and the firm’s image, a role she fulfills to perfection, with her lithe frame and youthful countenance. Of all her responsibilities, Rosa is particularly mad about management. “I was once told that a boss should treat an employee better than they treat a client and that is exactly how I want my staff to feel,” she told Valentín Bustos of Capital.es. Rosa is also a thrifty financial dynamo who refuses to buy “one single metre of cloth that isn’t already sold”. Interestingly,

100 per cent of all Rosa Clará items are made using Spanish or European products, in workshops based in Catalunya.

Rosa Clará offers fussy brides five different lines to express themselves: her signature line; Soft by Rosa Clará (a series of graceful, soft-flowing materials); Two by Rosa Clará (more affordable wear), and a stunning collection by renowned designer, Zuhair Murad. Her new Accessories line features shoes, tops and veils, as well as brooches, jewelled belts, lingerie, etc. Another brand, Aire

by Rosa Clará, shows how cutting edge design can offer brides elegant designs that don’t hurt the pocket. Branching out is a way to combat the recession: “We aren’t growing so much in Spain because we’ve already got a considerable degree of the market cornered but also because banks are hesitant to offer finance. The antidote is to expand our range of items.” She is also extremely proud of her more affordable items, noting the rise of the ‘low-cost’ fashion trend thanks to big players like Zara and Mango.

The most recent big development for Rosa is the conversion of her company into a holding, which now enjoys central control over all the group’s entities.

The move came after another legal battle against Rosa’s former partner, Rafael Martínez Galve,

to whom the company was ordered to pay over €1million in the year 2009. Accompanying the new corporate structure are savvy new headquarters, the Sant Just Desvern building in Barcelona, formerly occupied by La Caixa. Additional plans are underway to open stores in Colombia, Honduras and Qatar. Rosa is even open to the possibility of launching a line for men, since, “There’s so much to still be accomplished, there’s so much scope to grow.” As one would expect of such a purely positive force, she sees great promise in Spain’s future.

“I’m quite certain that in a five years, we will have doubled our annual turnover. We’re not interested in the word ‘crisis’; we’re interested in growth.”

Despite the economic downturn for Spain as a whole, Rosa notes that Spanish brides, like their Italian counterparts, “don’t count pennies when it comes to selecting their dress.” The ladies who drive the hardest bargain, she notes, are the Germans, who are used to more austere wedding celebrations. Yet her success has, as a whole, reached the farthest corners of the globe. When a design is beautiful, after all, it is beautiful anywhere in the world. And Rosa Clará has certainly created some of the most beautiful dresses anytime, anywhere.

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THESE ARE THE THINGS THAT

MADE OF

THE FOCUS fashion

DREAMS ARE

“I like to think I sewed my own umbilical chord on,” laughs Mariola Sanabría, the flamboyant designer of luxury urban clothing firm, Mery Hello.

Born in Mataró, Barcelona to a family steeped in the textile trade, Mariola moved to Málaga at the age of 12, though she has been obsessed with beautiful clothes since as far back as she can remember. “I sewed my first dress at the age of seven,” she says, explaining, “My aunts have a clothing factory in Mataró and they used to bring home rolls of excess fabric. One day they brought us some drop-dead gorgeous, shiny golden material and there was no way I was going to let my mother use it as a rag! I extended the cloth onto the floor, lay down on top of it and asked my brother to cut a piece around my body. I cut another, identical piece and sewed both pieces together. Of course, I didn’t leave enough room around the edges so the dress didn’t fit, but it was my first official attempt at design.”

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hroughout her young adulthood, fashion continued to fascinate her; she spent the first part of her career managing a popular chain of fashion boutiques, eventually taking a leap of faith and founding her own fashion brand two years ago: Mery Hello, a word play on her name. Mariola is the firm’s Creative Director and she runs the business entirely on her own, though she has two seamstresses who help her craft original outfits, sold at some of the trendiest beach clubs in Spain – Ushuaia in Ibiza will ring a bell to serious revellers.

Her collections are also sold at trendy boutiques, like Revolver in Puerto Banús, and online.

The brand comprises exclusive items, so every time fashionistas make a purchase, they can rest assured that nobody else in Spain (or, indeed, the world) owns it. Some items are duplicated in small numbers, but in this case, each is numbered and the maximum number of identical designs hovers at around 5. “If a client falls in love with an item that has already been sold, they might find a similar item in another colour but at the moment, I’m trying to keep it as exclusive as possible,” she says. Funnily enough, despite already being an iconic designer for trendy urbanites and holding a diploma in fashion design, Mariola has a little over a year to finish her Cutting and Sewing course (which

ingredient, present in designs like her Chesterfield sofa-inspired blue wedding dress or ‘tuned up’ versions of everyday wear like military jackets, which she feminises with studs and sparkles and imbues with the avante-garde spirit of artists who have come before her (like one of her favourite singers, Michael Jackson).

Perhaps the only external influence present in her creations is that of urban wear legend, Christian Audigier, best known for his eponymous fashion brand and for creating the famous Ed Hardy T-shirts. Audigier has been universally hailed for the rebel-rousing tattoo designs in his apparel, also present

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY © KHPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

Mariola Sanabría Ruiz of Mery Hello follows the renowned Martí sewing method).

Mariola specialises in cocktail wear, though one of her biggest sellers is her Pool Party line, inspired on party haven, Ibiza. This summer, fashion buffs will be lining up for glam swimwear punctuated by colourful stones, Swarovski crystals and sequins.

The Mery Hello brand reveals Mariola’s penchant for silk, much of which is painstakingly hand-painted.

When asked who her greatest influences in the fashion world are, she leaves big name designers out of the equation, citing her teacher, Leonor as one of the few people she is interested in emulating, above all when it comes to flawless technique.

“When it comes to design, I prefer to immerse myself in my own world and just let my mind soar.”

Indeed, the individuality of her designs reveal a very defined, particular vision. “All my clothing incorporates three elements: comfort, femininity and elegance.” A touch of daring is another strong

in some of Mariola’s silk dresses. “My brother draws the tattoos for my clothing,” she says, “but the look is softer, more feminine.”

Mariola is a true child of the sea, from which she draws much of her inspiration. “Every summer, I head for Ibiza or the beaches of the Costa del Sol, where I live. I’ve been going to Ibiza for 10 years, though rather than party with my friends until the early hours of the morning, I prefer to rise with the sun and spend all day on the beach.” The charismatic designer stores a host of singular memories of her days in Ibiza, like the time she was lost in the music in one of the island’s most famed hotspots, Blue Marlin, a glass of champagne in hand. “I was wearing a bikini and ruffled mini-skirt when a girl came up to me and asked my where I had bought my outfit. I told her I’d designed and made it myself and she begged me to sell it to her! Luckily, I had a change

of clothing in my bag, since you never know what the weather will be like in Ibiza! The next day, I sold hundreds of euros worth of clothing to her friends!” laughs Mariola, who knows that apart form talented, she is charmed.

Mariola is currently in negotiations with some of online fashion’s biggest sellers (including ASOS and El Armario de la Tele) and she hopes to break into the trendy beach club and boutique market in Marbella this summer. The hottest ladies on the Coast will be decked out in her sexy trikinis, bearing the Mery Hello logo in shiny fluorescent crystals; or semi-transparent, flowing dresses that conjure up images of the most exotic creatures in Paradise. Don’t be surprised if you’re at a trendy beach club and see Mariola lying on the sand and dreaming of her next visionary collection; like her designs, this artist is truly one-of-a-kind. g www.meryhello.com

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thestyle INTERIORS / ARCHITECTURE / ART / DESIGN

Take a tour through an elegant home overlooking the sea, plan your best bridal look with the latest designs from Barcelona Fashion Week and gather ideas for fashionable mothers in law and bridesmaids.

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GARDENS / FASHION

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A Luxury Marbella Villa

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Bridal Wear from Barcelona Fashion Week

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Fashion News

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Luxury Mediterranean Apartments & Townhouses

It’s time for a visit :-) Affordable Luxury Apartments with Resort Services Located on the ‘New Golden Mile’ near Marbella and Estepona, we have created a unique and friendly residential development of top quality apartments and townhouses that offers everything you need for a perfect home or holiday.

With a growing community of International owners who have chosen this truly special place as their home and the services we offer for your comfort, Cortijo del Mar is the ultimate in affordable luxury living on the Costa del Sol. Come and visit our on-site office and let us show you around our home.

Sales office tel: (+34) 952 90 40 35 mob: (+34) 605 900 905 FM Consulting office tel: (+34) 952 810 000 www.cortijodelmar.com Ctra. N-340 Málaga-Cádiz Km. 168 (salida C.C. Diana), Calle Alquería 1, 29680 Estepona GPS: Longitud: +36º 28´9.86” Latitud: -5º1´15.94”

GATED COMPLEX WITH 24-HOUR SECURITY • HI-TECH VIDEO ENTRY • INTELLIGENT HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEMS (DOMOTICS) • SPACIOUS AND LIGHT INTERIORS • SIEMATIC KITCHENS • SIEMENS APPLIANCES • ALARM • SATELLITE TV • SECURITY DOORS • ELECTRIC BLINDS • INTERIOR CARPENTRY • BATHROOM FITTINGS • GARAGE • STORAGE ROOMS

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THE STYLE decor

V

illa Andrea, situated on the peaceful western edge of Sierra Blanca, is a fine example of this. Though of recent construction and modern in its standards and amenities, this exclusive home bears the hallmark of a property that will continue to grow in stature as the years pass.

Its architectural styling carries the appeal of an international class of home as appreciated by those with discerning tastes, yet it is an aesthetic language that grew up out of Marbella and is a perfect representative of its lifestyle and setting. Inspired by the traditional Andalusian country house and infused with Northern notions of comfort and warmth, it blends interior and exterior with equal panache. This balance is a vital component of the Marbella villa, for it reflects a way of life that is spent indoors and outdoors in equal measure.

With its seaward glance enjoyed from large shaded terraces, private sunny nooks and panoramic rooms, not to mention luxuriant lawns surrounding a sparkling swimming pool, the Marbella villa is geared to offer quality of life as well as elegance, refinement and comfort. This quality is made up of small pleasures such as waking up to magnificent views of the Mediterranean or enjoying breakfast in a peaceful and sunny spot, but given the climate and cosmopolitan nature of Marbella it also consists of time spent in the sun with the family, socialising with friends or entertaining in style.

A Marbella villa has to fulfil all these roles, and then some. Home, showpiece, comfortable refuge from the world, sociable hub and ultimately the place where you feel relaxed and happy with those you love around you. Encapsulating all of this with undeniable Mediterranean glamour, Villa Andrea does so with an ease and harmony that truly makes it a fine example of the Marbella style of refined living.

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Trends and fashions come and go, but some styles are so in touch with their setting that they have a timeless quality with all the makings of a future classic.

DESIGNED FOR THE

Marbella

lifestyle

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY WAYNE CHASAN, COURTESY OF PANORAMA

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Balancing comfort and style Homeowners in Marbella require their villas to be impressive and quite frankly a reflection of their status, but once that is conveyed they also demand comfort, warmth and a high level of amenities. Dressing such a home requires taste and skill, knowing what antiques, furniture and art to choose, and how to assemble and present them.

These were thoughts foremost in the mind of the home’s original owner, a well-known businessman in Marbella who enlisted the help of Madrid-based architect Diego Rodríguez to create a decorative ambience worthy of such a fine home.

In a style that he himself describes as ‘Modern Minimalist Italian’, the renowned interior architect began to design a décor geared towards yearround living. A driveway leads to a multi-car garage on the lower level, but when you approach the villa on foot you enter through an imposing portico flanked by symmetrical garden details in the formal Spanish style. Inside, the blue sea glistening in the distance catches your eye as you stand in an elegant hallway decorated with tasteful wooden carvings and art.

In the classic style this is the distribution point of the house, with stairs leading up to the two main bedroom suites and a bright and sunny corridor providing direct access to the rooms on the ground floor. Here, colourful art pieces and handmade furniture add a further touch of interest and pleasure in what could otherwise just be a functional space. Soft ambient lighting provides a warm, welcoming glow in a home that is rich in natural light during the long sunny Andalusian days. The living room, spacious yet intimate with its different sitting areas, connects with a shaded terrace, allowing sunlight to illuminate its tasteful decoration, with furniture that is both sleek and solid.

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Here classic pieces, antiques and modern art come together to create an interior setting that is elegant and refined but with modern contemporary appeal. The interplay of light fabrics and darker woods is offset by the playful infusion of colours provided by handmade red lacquer dressoirs and abstract paintings. The mostly oriental antiques and exquisite porcelain pieces lend a solid but imaginative dimension to the dĂŠcor that is a product of their cool surfaces and flowing forms. Step through into the dining room and television room and the natural ease with which comfort and style interact is a testament to the good taste of those who chose the furnishings and commissioned the solid handcrafted dining room furniture and wall unit.

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These bespoke pieces, designed and made to measure for the home, are both innately practical and imposing.

Indeed, you can just as easily imagine relaxing here as entertaining in grand style. Connected to the dining room is a professional kitchen whose Scandinavian style matt wood finish contrasts to great effect with its modern right-angled design. The outer wings of the ground floor are completed by three suites – in this case used as two bedrooms and an office. All are dressed in solid contemporary Italian furniture whose sleek lines are offset by luxuriant classic designer chairs and modern art sourced from the Pedro Peña collection.

When choosing the artwork the owner’s main criteria was that it would complement the furniture, the colour scheme of the room and fit in with its ambience and use. For this reason, the rooms feel connected yet individual. Not surprisingly, the best has been kept for the bedroom suites that occupy the top floor, and here the expansive main suite is particularly impressive, with its elegant walk-in dressing room, luxurious marble bathroom and opulent bedroom looking straight out across the garden and surrounding greenery to the sea and the big skies that encase it.

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Inner and outer harmony

Panorama ProPerties Puente romano Hotel. Local 23 (next to the reception), marbella. tel: 952 863 750. www.panorama.es

Among the many comforts and amenities typical of a Marbella villa of stature is the private gym that allows its occupants to avoid sharing an exercise space with others. With such a facility on the lower level of your own property there remains little excuse not to exercise, and Villa Andrea is particularly well equipped in this sense, with a fully professional gym, sauna and changing rooms.

In most places the décor would stop there, barely extending beyond some garden furniture and the pleasing array of pot plants, but given the way such a large part of the year is spent outdoors in Marbella, terraces, porches and poolside areas become an integral part of a home’s living spaces too. Villa Andrea’s interior designer, Diego Rodríguez, sought to extend the understated elegance and plush comfort of the interior spaces when furnishing the long covered terrace that extends over a large part of the property’s seafacing side.

Stylish lounging areas made for informal daytime relaxing and summer night entertaining flow on to an outdoor dining area for those famous occasions when you can dine to a soundtrack of crickets and views of stars and city lights shining beyond the beautifully lit blue pool. But this is also a place for a billiards table, hammocks for lazy reading and snoozing, children playing around the pool and long days spent under the Marbella sun. In short, those who created Villa Andrea were mindful of the lifestyle it was meant to offer, the sophistication it was meant to portray and the many homely comforts and facilities it also brings.

The result is an ambience in which form and function, comfort and style are well balanced and geared towards a home that fulfils many roles. “A home’s setting is a powerful determinant in its styling and ambience,” says the designer. “This house was designed and decorated with Marbella very clearly in mind. If we were building and decorating such a property in Northern Europe or North America, where the light and surroundings can be very different, we would have done it differently. This is, therefore, a Marbella villa par excellence.”

Asked which he would opt for if forced to choose between aesthetics and practicality, the homes’ creator unhesitatingly favours visual beauty. “I am, after all, an Andalusian, and a love of aesthetic beauty lies deep within us.” He needn’t worry, though, for he and the home’s subsequent owners have ensured that Villa Andrea is both effortlessly glamorous and functional. e

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THE STYLE

VILLA LA CORSA ore and more, new buyers coming to Marbella love the setting and the lifestyle but find many of the properties out of tune with the latest tastes and trends. The result has been a rise in the development and renovation of modern villas that bring the Marbella way of life into the 21st century. Too often, though,

this translates into cold, sterile villas that are visually impressive but cold to live in. “We wanted to avoid that,” says Carsten Hallas, the man behind New Day Properties’ sleek modern styling. The villas he and his team create feature clean architectural lines and minimalist interiors, but without forsaking comfort, warmth and personality. “Our properties are renovated existing villas in top locations that

are rebuilt to incorporate the latest materials, technologies and also styling, but they are all highly individualistic homes each with their own unique features and ambience”. New Day Properties therefore creates homes around a recognisable philosophy that reflects the company’s Danish origins, but each villa is approached as a single, bespoke project with design solutions and features that are not seen

ADVERTISING FEATURE

M

Completely rebuilt and reconfigured, Villa La Corsa is the creation of New Day Properties, a company that specialises in catering to the growing demand for modern homes in Marbella.

LA CORSA FACT SHEET PRICE: € 1.750.000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 4 + guest toilet PLOT: 1,451 m2 BUILT: 390 m2

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elsewhere. Villa La Corsa is a fine example of this, offering a refined modern living environment with design, layout and detailing that make it a unique one-off home. From its position in Nueva AndalucĂ­a, the property looks straight across the greenery of Las Brisas Golf Course towards La Concha Mountain, whose unmistakable outline forms an imposing backdrop to be enjoyed from almost every room in the house. Clearly a home made for those who love fine design, La Corsa is the kind of house an architect would choose. The volumes have been treated in a way that belies its actual space, creating a sleek villa with stylish design elements that stand out and give it personality, like the solid red painted entrance door, the broken-glass style front door and the Japanese inspired patio with its 400 year-old olive tree. Two bedroom suites flank front part of the house, which flows on to a living room, dining room and kitchen

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a stylishly lit glass wine cellar to an independent bedroom suite that also communicates directly with the garden and terrace. Villa La Corsa is crowned by a spacious main bedroom suite on the top floor, which features a luxurious modern bathroom and inspiring views of the surroundings. The home is built to Scandinavian standards with marble from around the world and materials sourced in Spain, Italy, Germany and Denmark. More than that, though, Villa La Corsa is a modern architectural jewel full of personality set in a prime location.

whose split-levels allow a spacious, open layout in which the different areas are nonetheless comfortable and intimate.

Occupying the highest level is a modern designer kitchen breakfast area, utility room and a sociable prepping bar that communicates with the formal dining room.

The latter looks out towards the beautifully manicured mature garden and magnificent pool as well as down across the living room, set half a level lower. Clean white lines softened at the edges combine with built-in shelving, recesses and windows that bring light and views into the home to create a very special setting. Contemporary, refined and comfortable with clear modernist touches that interpret Andalusian elements, the open-flowing living room also incorporates a remote controlled gas fireplace and a fully fitted bar. From here, steps lead half a level down past

For more information on the Villa Corsa please contact New Day Properties at T: +34 951 242 500 / 670 502 955.

Email: info@newdayproperties.eu www.newdayproperties.eu

advertising feature

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RHEIMS FACT SHEET

PRICE: €785.000 BEDROOMS: 3 BATHROOMS: 3+guest toilet BUILT: 260 m2

VILLA RHEIMS Set within the gated community of Le Village in Nueva Andalucía, Villa Rheims is a beautifully reconstructed villa that offers modern amenities and style combined with the advantages of a well-established urbanisation with tennis, gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pool and clubhouse surrounded by lush gardens.

A

s with all of New Day’s properties, it is a unique home full of personality in which contemporary living is accompanied by Mediterranean charm. The lower level consists of a bedroom suite with independent access, a comfortable modern kitchen and a spacious and sunny living room that connects with a covered terrace complete with built-in gas BBQ. A unique feature is the patio, which has been converted into a formal dining room that communicates with the kitchen and the living room. Comfortable and cosy in the winter, it can be opened in summer to allow sunlight to pour in and make this an inviting room to relax and entertain in.

Moreover, the electrically operated sliding roof will close automatically at the first sign of rain.

The patio beneath looks out on a modern glass bodega, another eye-catching feature and talking point in a home full of unique touches. Upstairs are another bedroom suite and the master bedroom, which besides a luxurious modern bathroom also boasts a walk-in dressing room with professional storage cabinetry. From here the views are of the urbanisation’s greenery, best enjoyed from the large American Jacuzzi on the equally spacious private terrace. In addition to unobtrusive storage solutions that make clever use of space, the property features electric blinds in the bedrooms, bathrooms and living room, ambient lighting throughout and the latest luxury materials. The latter includes high-quality tiles, Japanese-inspired washbasins, step-in rain showers, automated climate control and built-in halogen reading lamps. The result is a modern home with interconnecting living spaces that blend functionality with style and homely charm.

A comfortable permanent residence, it is also a perfect holiday home for those who want the ambience and space of a villa combined with the amenities of a private urbanisation with 24-hour security, maintenance, concierge service and sports facilities – a place where you can close the door behind you and know everything will be looked after.

For more information on the Villa Rheims please contact New Day Properties at T: +34 951 242 500 / 670 502 955.

Email: info@newdayproperties.eu www.newdayproperties.eu

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THE STYLE fashion

JesĂşs Peiro www.jesuspeiro.com

Bridal

THE BEST OF BARCELONA

WEEK

2013

For every blushing bride in Spain, the most important week of the year before their big day is Barcelona Bridal Week: the event which brings together Spain’s most renowned designers of wedding dresses and bridal party attire. This year saw everything from classic designs to dresses peppered with colour, punctuated with dazzling jewellery and layered beneath fragile fabrics. Regardless of the eclectic visions that appeared, every designer seemed to say the same thing: when it comes to their wedding day, ever bride should feel free to express themselves, break the mould and savour love to the fullest degree.

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Rosa Clarรก

www.rosaclara.es

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Jordi Dalmau www.jordidalmau.com

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Raimon Bundo

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Franc Sarabia www.francsarabia.com

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Matilde Cano www.matildecano.com

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Who said a bridesmaid´s dress was to be worn once and then never again? The world’s best designers are heralding a new wave in wedding wear, dreaming up new designs that are fun, flirty and best of all, fitting for a plethora of future parties! We hope you enjoy our favourite picks…

DRESS BY ANA TORRES

DRESS BY GEMA NICOLAS FOR CABOTINE

CONTACTS: ANA TORRES: www.anatorres.es CABOTINE: www.cabotine.es CARLA RUIZ: www.carlaruiz.com MATILDE CANO: www.matildecano.com

DRESS BY ANA TORRES

DRESS BY GEMA NICOLAS FOR CABOTINE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

DRESS BY GEMA NICOLAS FOR CABOTINE

DRESS BY MATILDE CANO

DRESS BY CARLA RUIZ

BRIDESMAID… ALWAYS A Some Day a Bride!

DRESS BY GEMA NICOLAS FOR CABOTINE

DRESS BY CARLA RUIZ

THE STYLE fashion

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DRESS BY GEMA NICOLAS FOR CABOTINE

DRESS BY FRANC SARABIA

DRESS BY GEMA NICOLAS FOR CABOTINE

DRESS BY PATRICIA AVENDAÑO

CONTACTS: CABOTINE: www.cabotine.es FRANC SARABIA: www.francsarabia.com SONIA PEÑA: www.soniapena.com PATRICIA AVENDAÑO: www.patriciaavendano.com

DRESS BY FRANC SARABIA

Formal, frumpy frocks for mothers of the bride and groom are officially ‘out’. If your son or daughter is about to tie the knot, get your hands on one of these hot designs, which prove that regardless of age or occasion, a woman always deserves to look feminine, beautiful and elegant.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Mother of the Bride

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DRESS BY SONIA PEÑA

DRESS BY SONIA PEÑA

DRESS BY PATRICIA AVENDAÑO

DRESS BY FRANC SARABIA

DRESS BY FRANC SARABIA

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spa

PRODUCTS / BEAUTY / SPA / SCIENCE

Check out the very latest in wedding ‘updos’, read up on the latest health and beauty news, discover why some fats are actually good for you, and visit the newly renovated Hotel Kempinski Spa.

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Beauty: Beautiful Wedding Hairdos

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Beauty News

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Health: Healthy Fats

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Health News

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The Hotel Kempinski Spa

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BEAUTY

UPDATE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

2

UP OR

DOWN?

1 – Who said wedding hairdos had to be sweet and fluffy as meringue? We love this messy plaited look, affording plenty of volume on top and an original view from the sides. Very John Galliano.

2 – If you’re after a short look but you’ve got long locks, don’t reach for that pair of scissors yet; simply tease hair generously, tuck under and pin for a wavy, bobbed effect.

3 – This updo has all the grace of a classic bun yet the flirty femininity afforded by layered wisps of hair, sprayed back for a long-lasting effect.

4 – You might have been told that tousled hair just isn’t a fitting style for your big day but why should you listen to anybody?

Just because you’re getting married doesn’t mean you have to stop being you. This natural bed-head look is perfect for outdoor spring/summery weddings. Give it plenty of shine and tease slightly to add volume.

5 – This reinterpretation of the classic 1950s beehive aims for a smooth, unified effect that makes the most of a bride’s eyes and cheekbones. This style will flatter nearly all face shapes.

6 – Classically-minded brides are falling head-over-heels for this simple bun, teased and smoothly twisted over. Jazz it up with diamantes and pearls.

7 – A classic, chic up-do for shorter hair. Hair is curled in rollers then slightly teased and sprayed. A touch of femininity is afforded by hair jewellery, always a favourite way to jazz up short styles.

8 – If sexy defines you, opt for this retro chic look, which conjures up images of Hollywood vixens of the past.

1

Whether you’re a traditional bride or a bold, brash babe who likes to make a statement even on your wedding day, you’ll find the hairdo of your dreams in our top selection of new and retro styles for the 2013 bride…

3 4

Wedding Hair Styles for the Trendy Bride

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5 7

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spa

This month, women of all ages will be marvelling at the myriad of hues taking over the palates of make-up manufacturers around the world. From pale pink to fuschia, coral to bright orange, purple to plum, our favourite make-up collections are cool and warm, refreshing and soothing, all at once. Take your pick from our list of top items, compiled by Marisa Cutillas.

BEAUTY

1 – CHANEL JOUES CONTRASTE POWDER BLUSH: This beautiful blush, warm as the sun and smooth as silk, offers buildable coverage, which means that you can take your look from natural to dramatic with a little bit of layering. The powder is ultra-silky and radiant, softening the skin and bestowing it with a youthful glow. i www.chanel.com 2 – CHANEL PRECIEUX PRINTEMPS QUADRA EYESHADOW: This stunning eyeshadow palette contains three shimmers and one semi-matte shade, in peach, copper, mauve brown and reddish brown, respectively. The set is perfect for the minimalist, natural style that is one of the big looks this season. i www.chanel.com

PRODUCTS

1

2

4

5

6 –ESTÉE LAUDER ILLUMINATING POWDER GELÉE BLUSH: This high-polish blush is simultaneously silky and luminous, bestowing skin with a sexy yet innocent glow. The revolutionary product is a tri-blend of powder, gel and liquid in one, and can be used sparingly or more intensely as desired. i www.esteelauder.com 7 –LANCÔME KOHL IN LOVE: This ultra-soft kohl eyeliner comes in two shades: dark blue and jade green. Wear anything but black to line your lids this Spring; play around with the colours of the rainbow. i www.lancomespain.com 8– OPI LIQUID SAND: For the ultimate beachy look, get this on your nails: OPI’s ultra-shimmery, grainy new polish, which pays homage to the sizzling summer. i www.opi.com

C K I S P for P U Sp E r K

mer 2013 um g/S in

TOP MA

3

3 – LANCÔME BAUME IN LOVE SHEER TINTED LIP BALM: This sheer moisturising lip balm comes in four different shades (orange, pale pink, fuschia and purple) and contains an ultra-shiny oil and soothing jelly, which protects lips against environmental stresses. i www.lancomespain.com 4 – CHANEL POUDRE SIGNÉE ILLUMINATING POWDER: This sheer highlighting powder is ultra-light on the skin yet durable and long-lasting. It delights die-hard Chanel fans with embossed artwork comprising classic imagery like the camellia flower and the company’s iconic logo. i www.chanel.com 5 –CHANEL LE VERNIS NAIL COLOUR: True to form, Chanel’s nail polish collection reflects the hottest colours of the season: burgundy, pale peach and pink. i www.chanel.com

6

7

8

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HEALTH

Food FOR Beauty WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

UPDATE

Powerhouse Foods for Beautiful Bridal Skin Z FOREGO REFINED CARBS They introduce vast amounts of glucose into the bloodstream. Not only does this cause your body to produce too much insulin (which eventually causes cells to become insulin-resistant and can provoke the onset of Type II diabetes), it leads to the production of advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs). The latter stop cells from functioning normally, causing inflammation and producing dangerous levels of free radicals, which age skin prematurely. AGEs are produced when glucose binds to biomolecules, causing the latter to alter their functions. Glucose also binds to collagen (the skin’s most vital structural protein), altering its structure and causing skin to inflame, wrinkle and sag. Glucose even binds to the DNA and RNA in your skin, once again causing abnormalities in function and leading to mutations when your skin cells reproduce.

Z KEEP WHOLE GRAIN CONSUMPTION TO A MINIMUM Leslie Kenton, beauty and nutrition expert, makes the interesting point that for too long, we have been fed the myth that ‘Bread is Essential for the Good Life’. Whole grains, she says, can be useful for those who burn food quickly (these people have a tendency to stay slim regardless of what they eat), but most of us are better off without them. Whole grains contain phosphorous, which promotes skin and bone health, but the problem is that they also contain phytic acid, which combines with zinc, copper, iron, magnesium and calcium in our intestinal tract and stops the body from absorbing these important nutrients. If you must eat grains and legumes, make sure they are organic (and therefore free of toxic chemicals) and soak or ferment them first, to neutralise phytic acid and make them easier to digest (sprouting seeds increases their vitamin content dramatically and breaks down complex starches).

As your wedding approaches, you’ll probably find that friends and family will happily give you advice on everything from wedding invitations to photographers, dresses and shoes… but few people Z STOCK UP ON LIVING will probably stress the importance of feeding your CARBOHYDRATES The body the right foods to optimise your energy level best thing about eating on the big day and to have beautiful, glowing for beauty is that you skin… the kind that makes the difference when it comes can eat all the carbs to showing off your best look to the flashing cameras. you like, provided they The right make-up will certainly go a long way comprise fresh, colourful towards hiding blemishes and dark circles but fruits and vegetables, as if you really want to look the very best you well as sprouted seeds and can, start the change from within by legumes. Try to stick to lowfollowing these handy tips: sugar fruits (did you know that the high-glycaemic-index banana on most supermarket shelves is actually a relatively new phenomenon?). Some of the healthiest choices include peppers, apples, fresh herbs, rocket, avocadoes, tomatoes, berries and melon. These foods contain high levels of phytonutrients, which are natural anti-oxidants that help skin resist ageing.

Z CONSUME GOOD FATS If you’ve wondered if fats are really essential for good skin, just take a look at the complexions of those who deprive themselves of a good meal in an effort to keep their weight down, only to end up looking haggard and rather dried-up. The right fats do not make you fat; in fact, they can help you slim down. Avoid the trans fatty acids found in most fast and processed foods, as well as highly processed oils like corn and sunflower. These fats not only ravage your skin, they cause heart disease.

Aim for a good balance of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fats, consuming a ratio of 2:1, respectively. Omega-6 fats are found in avocados, seeds and nuts, while Omega-3 fats are found in wild fresh water fish, flaxseed oil, flax seeds and walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids have potent anti-inflammatory properties and actually increase your metabolic rate, making them an ideal food to

consume if you want to shed a couple of kilos before the big day.

Z OMEGA-9 FATS, found in extra virgin olive oil (go for the cold-pressed variety) are rich in oleic acid, which counters the damaging effects of sunlight and heat.

Coconut oil, despite being a ‘saturated fat’ does not contribute to heart disease; in fact, the mediumchain triglycerides in coconut oil actually help lower cholesterol.

Z POWER UP WITH PROTEIN Your skin needs a considerable amount of protein to carry out a plethora of functions, including creating collagen, nerves, muscles, enzymes, hormones and antibodies.

Top quality proteins can be found in eggs, fish and game meat. If you are a vegetarian, the most important protein sources for you are grains and pulses. Mix legumes (like beans, lentils and cashews, which are high in the amino acid lysine and low in methionine) and grains, which have the opposite profile. This ensures that your protein intake will be as complete as possible. e

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For more information or to book an appointment contact

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T: 952 766 357 3/25/13 2:16 PM

spa

HEALTH WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

New Hope for the Blind

Alcohol Consumption

Affects Cancer Rate

UPDATE

ci Artifi

The subject of alcohol is often the cause of deep divide within the medical world. On the one hand, moderate consumption (one to two beverages a day) is linked to a lowered risk of diabetes, and on the other, a recent study indicates that even moderate alcohol use can significantly increase one’s chances of contracting cancer. The lead author of the study, Dr. David Nelson of the National Cancer Institute in the US, said, “Alcohol has been known to be related to causing cancer for a long period of time. We talk about cancer prevention, screenings and tests. This is one of those things that seem to be missing in plain sight.” Dr. Nelson’s study concluded that alcohol use accounts for 3.5 per cent of all annual cancer deaths in the US. The study is highly significant because it is the first major analysis of alcohol-attributable cancer deaths in over 30 years; over 220,000 adults took part in it. Cancers related to alcohol use include cancers of the mouth and pharynx, larynx, esophagus, liver, colon, rectum and female breasts. The study has, however, drawn some criticism for its failure to take important factors into account, such as the pattern of drinking. Consuming small, consistent amounts of alcohol is far less harmful than binge drinking occasionally, for instance.

Moreover, advice needs to be personalised. Dr. Curtis Ellison of the Boston University School of Medicine said, “The advice one would give to a 60-year-old man who has no problem with alcohol but is at high risk of heart disease due to family history is quite different than the advice we give to a 25-year-old woman whose mother died of breast cancer.”

al

Ret ina

The Food and Drug Administration in the US recently approved an artificial retina, giving hope to patients worldwide who suffer from a particular form of blindness. The device, a retinal prosthesis manufactured by a company that is fittingly named Second Sight Medical Products, consists of a miniature camera attached to a pair of glasses. A compact computer translates electronic images into data, which is transmitted to approximately 55 electrodes in a retinal implant that sends visual signals to the brain.

The device allows sufferers of retinitis pigmentosa (a disease that kills cells in the retina, the part of the eye that processes light) to see images in black and white and to detect motion, recognise large letters and safely identify pedestrian lanes. It is expected that the device will one day be used to treat macular degeneration.

Does Childhood TV Viewing Lead to Crime?

Two recent studies linking childhood television viewing to criminality and anti-social behaviour in adult life are prompting parents to rethink their policy of allowing children to stay glued to the screen for as many hours as they desire. Pediatricians have long prescribed that children’s viewing times be limited to an hour a day, but the popularity of smartphones, video streaming and YouTube has led children to watch more TV over the years. The first relevant study, carried out by the University of Otago in New Zealand, indicated that every extra hour of television viewed by children on weeknights increased their chance of having a criminal conviction by the age of age 26, by a whopping 30 per cent. The second study, undertaken by the University of Washington, concluded that simply substituting violent programmes with pro-social, educational programming, leads to significant improvements in social competence. The two studies present their own limitations, however, since the authors of the New Zealand study noted that anti-social behaviour in itself may lead children to watch more hours of television, while the authors of the Washington study noted that parents may have been aware of the study, causing them to modify their own behaviour and thus have a positive impact on the sociability of their children.

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spa

HEALTH

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY © KHPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

ADVICE

Enigmatic young Spa Director, Thorsten Lipfert has just arrived from Andorra on the day he ushers me into his new baby, the recently refurbished Kempinski Spa. His attractive tan deceives, for he hasn’t been honing his skiing skills, but rather visiting Andorra’s top spas, a habit he is wont to indulge in to ensure the Kempinksi Spa is always at the cutting edge. “Our clients are sophisticated travellers,” he says, “so we have to offer them the very latest and best facilities and treatments.”

T

horsten is definitely not one to sit back on past achievements. His passion for innovation and five-star service is a product of his impressive background. As a trained physiotherapist and Personal Trainer, he is perfectly aware of the health and wellness aspects of the spa industry, but his background in management is equally strong, since he completed a degree in Spa Management & Hospitality at the University of California, directed a health club in Germany for over 10 years and likewise held the reins of a five-star spa in Portugal and Moldova for various years. Thorsten has been at the helm of the Kempinski Spa since 2009 and it’s safe to say that in this short period he has changed the face of the luxury spa experience in the South of Spain, offering sophisticated clients pure, pampering treatments from houses like Ligne St. Barth (a highly exclusive company located in the beautiful Caribbean island of St. Barthélemy) and Terraké (which invites you to delve into four different universes – earth, water, air and light, and plant life).

Renovations have been underway at the Spa since last year and the new Fitness Club and Sauna & Relax area exude a highly contemporary yet warm and inviting vibe. The Fitness Club is fitted with the most innovative technology on the market (supplied by Technogym) and includes strength training machinery, the prestigious Kinesis system, a Power Plate and further equipment promoting flexibility and strength. “We have a membership

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A Brand New Look for the Kempinski Spa quota to ensure nobody ever has to wait to use the equipment… the ambience is always one of a luxury spa, not a busy gym,” says Thorsten. The Spa with the Sauna & Relax and Fitness areas are child-free zones, which any parent will know is a key element of disconnecting.

The brand new Sauna & Relax area now bears deliciously heated matte dark grey flooring, dark wood furniture and heated relaxation benches, decorated with metallic mosaic-sized tiles that shine in various shades of copper. The spacious sauna seats 12 (and features six wooden ‘beds), while the steam room is a humid haven, warming body

and soul at a soothing 45º temperature. Nearby is a cool ice fountain and three sensation showers (featuring a cooling Kneipp shower), organic in style and also bearing a modern mosaic-tiled design.

Pure water is always key when submerging oneself in high temperatures and the spa now boasts a sophisticated osmosis system guaranteeing endless supplies of fresh water. Within the sauna area lies an inviting relaxation area, with ergonomically curved beds that look out onto a lush Mediterranean garden.

The changing rooms have also been refurbished and now boast a blend of wood and dark grey

fittings. The lockers feature a cutting edge digital lock system, so clients needn’t worry about having to wear their key on a bracelet! The showers are reminiscent in style to the Sauna area’s sensation showers, with a pervading ambience of intimacy.

Additional areas in the Spa are soon to be renovated: the entire treatment and reception area will be whizzed into the 21st century with a modern new look. The six new treatment rooms will bear the same graceful architectural style as the Sauna & Relax area, so perfect in its proportions as to conjure images of Fibonacci’s fascinating formula.

Thorsten and the team will ensure guests feel as relaxed as possible, with important details such as the right lighting, music and temperature in all areas.

Hotel guests have 24-hour access to the gym area but those living on the Coast may be interested to know that the Kempinski Spa offers three types of membership: day/month; six-month; and full-year memberships (which grant limitless use of the gym and spa areas). The yearly membership entitles holders to significant discounts on all spa treatments, meals at the Hotel’s restaurants and a discounted laundry service. All memberships include free use of the amenities such as the warm and fluffy robes and towels.

The Kempinski Spa may be undergoing a 360º turnaround, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the service, which is warm, personal and friendly.

Thorsten’s highly-skilled staff hail from Spain as well as countries far and wide, including the US, Germany and Estonia. Thorsten often says, “Worldclass treatment begins with finding the best people.”

The Spa’s new Sauna & Relax area and gym are up and running, and all the renovated areas have been sound-proofed, so you can enjoy the most exclusive treatments in the world in the peace and silence craved by your body, mind and spirit.

g CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500. www.kempinski.com 3/21/13 6:43 PM

Put your beauty in expert hands

Dr. Kai O. Kaye

Plastic, Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgeon • Full Member of the Spanish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery SEGPRE • Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery EBOPRAS • Full Member of the German Board of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery DGPRÄC • General Medical Council, GMC-UK Plastic Surgery, Specialist Register - N°. 6154742 • Member of the Colegio Oficial de Médicos de Málaga - N°. 29/2909452

PLASTIC SURGERY • AESTHETIC MEDICINE • DENTAL AESTHETICS

thepro NEWS /ENTERPRISE / LOCAL BUSINESS /

PROFILES / FINANCE / LAW

InternatIonal russIan-eu Ecological Forum The first Russian-European Ecological Forum will be held from May 2 to 5 at the Palacio de Congresos in Marbella and will cover a myriad of relevant themes including urban ecology and environmental problems of big cities, waste management, eco tourism and golf, sustainable investment and much more.

The event will bring together important politicians, international organisations, public authorities, and more. There will also be a host of stands featuring new ecological products and services.

g For further information, Tel: 952 779 631. www.marbellaluxuryevents.com

sanItexpat opens on thE coast For many British residents and other northern Europeans, keeping abreast of the latest health insurance options can be a complicated matter, but a new Costa del Sol company is easing their concerns by providing bespoke health insurance specially adapted to individual requirements. An officially dedicated Sanitas office for expatriates, Sanitexpat provides a professional service with fully-qualified health assessors able to attend to the needs of clients in their own language, explaining terms and conditions and providing product descriptions. Sanitexpat also offers a multilingual support desk, designated websites and social networking sites providing latest news, information and feedback.

g Tel: 902 404 000. www.sanitexpat.com 100 / aPril 2013 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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MARBELLA CLUB SPRING GAMES: SIX SPORTS IN A DAY! If you fancy yourself a bit of an all-rounder in the sporting sphere, why not sign up for the Marbella Club Spring Games, a whole-day event featuring sports such as alpine skiing, Ascari racing, clay pigeon shooting, golf, water skiing and tennis?

The event will start and finish at the Marbella Club Hotel and include a delicious breakfast and dinner! g www.springgames.es

RECORD SUCCESS FOR STAGECOACH Youngsters at Stagecoach Theatre Schools on the Coast are celebrating after achieving record breaking exam results. Some 30 Stagecoach Theatre Arts students from Fuengirola and Marbella were entered for the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) examinations in January and a record number gained distinctions. Warren Webley, the Principal of Stagecoach Fuengirola and Marbella, said: “An unprecedented 75 per cent of our entrants gained either a merit or distinction this year.� LAMDA solo examinations are sat, once a year at Stagecoach, as an optional extra. This term, Stagecoach will be giving all their 160 students the opportunity of performing in their annual Showcase at a local professional theatre.

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Ecological lavEndEr Farm Opens in Granada

A new ecological lavender farm, Casa Lavanda, recently opened to the public, amid snow-topped mountains neighbouring white villages and countless citrus, almond and olive groves. The farm, which is Dutch-owned and grows 1.5 hectares of organic lavender, harvests all plants by hand and manufactures organic essential oil by using a traditional copper alembic still for steam distillation. The farm also produces a host of lavender-based products, including fresh and dried flowers, lavender sachets, baths salts and oils, soaps, facial oils, hydrolytes and lavender mists. g Casa Lavanda is open to the public from May to October, on

Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 10am until sunset. For groups and other options, call Femke (Tel: 692 534 949) or Erik (Tel: 634 849 633). www.casalavanda.es

costa WomEn Win ‘BEst social cluB’ in Best Of British awards Costa Women, a social networking community based on the Costa del Sol, recently scored quite a coup: being deemed Best Social Club at the Telegraph’s Best of British Awards.

Founder, Ali Meehan, was extremely pleased with the win, stating that her aim when founding the group was to provide a forum for women to meet, greet, write, blog, promote their businesses, support local charities and have fun.

Congratulations to this fabulous group of females! g www.costawomen.ning.com

First luxury HomEs dEsign tEnnis/PaddlE tEnnis tournamEnt at the hOtel puente rOmanO Luxury and sport will go hand-in-hand at the first Luxury Homes Design Tennis/ Paddle Tennis Tournament, to be held at the Puente Romano Tennis Club on April 5 and 6. The cost to join is only €5 for members of the Club and €10 for nonmembers. If you are interested in two days of fun and action, register online at

www.puenteromanotennis.com/registration-es.html.

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Eriksson WoodWorks: for original, Bespoke Work in Wood Eriksson Woodworks is a small, exclusive company with a great passion for wood. The Owner and Founder of the company, Ulf Eriksson, is highly experienced in working with top quality wood, of various types. Established on the Coast for seven years, Ulf believes that nothing is impossible and every customer’s desire is achievable. Ulf works with a range of useful contacts and exclusive wood dealers in Germany employing hand-selected woods to create original pieces and extravagant wooden decks.

g Tel: 663 067 008. e.e.woodworks@gmail.com

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VILLA PADIERNA EXHIBITION ‘BEST EVER’, SAY ARTISTS Nearly 1,000 visitors crammed into the Salón Linares at Hotel Villa Padierna for an exhibition of contemporary art by 17 local painters and sculptors. The event, sponsored by Blevins Franks Financial Management and organised by Benahavís Decorative & Fine Arts Society, was a triumph, with exhibitors delighted at the level of sales. Among the VIP visitors was John Myatt, a hugely successful artist who rose to fame in the 1980s, when his works in the style of various 20th century masters fooled the entire art world for years. His talk the previous day at Restaurant TikiTano was also a sell-out success.

g www.hotelvillapadierna.com

PHOTOGRAPH THE PATIOS DE CÓRDOBA WITH WAYNE CHASAN AND MICHELLE CHAPLOW Internationally acclaimed photographers, Michelle Chaplow and Wayne Chasan, have joined forces with Cris & Kim travel designers to offer a five-day luxury photography workshop, visiting the May Patios Festival in Córdoba. This is a unique opportunity for a privileged few to discover Andalucía while improving their photography skills at the hands of two highly experienced tutors! The system of instant feedback and evaluation on this course is the best way to learn photography. Students download their photos daily for one-on-one sessions with the tutors; this way they understand how to improve their technique the next day. The course costs €2.895, departing Marbella on May 13th and ending on May 18th. g For further information,

foto@crisandkim.com / www.crisandkim.com

CIRCUITO COSTA DEL SOL AMATEUR GOLF OPEN Andalucía Golf Select and the Cadena SER recently held a press conference to enlighten members of the media about a new golf competition: the Circuito Costa del Golf Amateur Open, which will be disputed over a nine-month period on 20 of the best golf courses of the Costa del Sol. The event is expected to gather record crowds, with over 2,500 participants expected. The first match took place on March 2 at Valle Romano Golf. Prizes will be awarded at every toumament, including trips, weekends away, buggies, golf clubs, etc. g www.andaluciagolfselect.com

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marbella town Hall ceLebrates internationaL Women’s day When it comes to the subject of gender equity in the workforce, women still have a long way to go.

The spirit of overcoming obstacles such as inequitable pay and a lack of representation in board rooms resounded on International Women’s Day, commemorated by members of Marbella Town Hall. Dignitaries such as Isabel Cintado of the Gender Equity Department spoke of challenges ahead, which women should face with positivity and a strategic plan.

g www.marbella.es

Setenil 2013: Vespa and Lambretta road trip The quaint town of Setenil formed the perfect backdrop for a highly awaited yearly event, organised by the Vespa Club of Fuengirola. Over 200 scooter fans hopped on their Vespas and Lambrettas for the ride of a lifetime over winding mountain roads flanked by lush pine trees, on the way up to the historic town of Ronda.

Members of the Vespa Club of Fuengirola and friends also enjoyed a hearty lunch and engaging conversation about what all riders love most: their scooters! g www.vespaclubfuengirola.blogspot.com

UK HelpS improve SecUrity of cHildren in british schooLs in spain UK law enforcers have launched a new police check that will help British schools in Spain identify and screen out people who are unsuitable for working with children. The new International Child Protection Certificate (ICPC) was presented to more than 200 delegates from 60 authorised British schools at the annual conference of the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) in Seville on 7 and 8 March. British Ambassador Giles Paxman, said: “Schools have a critical role to play in guaranteeing the safety and well-being of children. The new International Child Protection Certificate is an effective tool designed to reduce the chances of sex offenders gaining access to children. I encourage all schools in Spain to include it as part of their staff recruitment.” g www.nabss.org

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ALOHA COLLEGE: RAISING THE BAR FOR GIVING AND LEARNING Pupils at Aloha College have been busy as bees in recent weeks, taking part in everything from fundraising efforts to events with a business flavour. Children from Year 3 visited the Town Hall and Marbella’s Old Town, showing their artistic talent by drawing the stunning sculptures on Avenida del Mar. Meanwhile, students from Year 10 took part in the Investor IFS competition, placing 60th out of the 7,600 teams from all around the world who took part in a fun stockmarket challenge. Finally, the Aloha College Choir showed it has a big heart, performing to raise funds for the CUDECA Talk Radio Europe Telethon. g www.aloha-college.com

DR. ALEXANDER ASLANI HEADS CHARITY CAMP IN INDIA Dr. Alexander Aslani, Founder of the CIRUMED Clinic in Marbella and Head of the Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Department of the Hospital Quirón in Málaga, has been heading charity surgery camps to India for the past few years and this year, he and his team are gearing up for their fourth mission. A total of eight doctors will be heading for India to perform surgery for needy patients.

The mission is currently looking for sponsors so if you are interested in lending a helping hand to this extremely worthwhile mission, please contact the CIRUMED team. g Avda. Ramón y

Cajal 7-4º, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 356/ 607 307 515. aaslani@cirumed.es

SHRINKING VIOLET BODY WRAPS COMES TO MARBELLA If you’ve been having trouble removing fat in problem areas such as the thighs, buttocks and abdomen, Shrinking Violet Body Wrap is here to help. It involves the use of a painless, effortless technique that is so powerful that a one-hour session can shrink your waistline by up to 5.08cm! The amount of fat reduction varies according to build, but many customers report reducing a whole size after the treatment. Problem areas can be targeted every seven days and most clients need maintenance visits once or twice a year after an initial course of six treatments.

g Available at CACI Non-Surgical Facials by Lucie. Tel: 952 810 487. www.cacifacialsmarbella.com

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MOTHER'S DAY AT BSM Children at the British School of Marbella treated their mums to a milkshake and cake recently to celebrate UK Mother's Day. Foundation Stage children between the ages of two and five sang a special song for their mums before giving them hand-made cards, presents, iced cakes and tasty milkshakes. Around 50 mums turned up for the event, which was held at the school cafeteria.

g www.bsm.org.es

PADDLE TENNIS TOURNAMENT FOR FUNDACIÓN CESARE SCARIOLO The Real Club de Pádel de Marbella recently hosted its first fundraising tournament for the Cesare Scariolo Foundation, which aids children receiving treatment in Málaga for cancer.

In addition to a full day’s action, players, families and friends enjoyed a fun raffle featuring prizes like Adidas bags, meal vouchers and spa and yoga sessions.

g www.cesarescariolo.org

SWANS STUDENTS REACH FOR THE TOP A group of 16 intrepid climbers from Swans International School, including staff, parents and students, recently climbed to the summit of Torrecilla the highest peak in the province of Málaga, at 1,919m above sea level. “The scenery was spectacular,” said one teenage student, who passed the eight-hour challenge with flying colours. Everyone returned home safe and sound, and enjoyed sharing their impressions of their laudable achievement. g www.swansschoolinternational.es

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The pro business

seaT LeÓn, VoLKsWaGen GoLf and BmW 3 series,

The 3 cars mosT sToLen in spain

Ranking

Vehicle Make

Model

1

Seat

León

2

Volkswagen

Golf

3

BMW

3 Series

4

Seat

Ibiza

5

Volkswagen

Passat

6

Renault

Megane

7

Audi

A4

8

Ford

Escort

9

Ford

Fiesta

10

Ford

Focus

M

otor vehicle theft costs Spanish drivers almost €218 million in insurance, 5 per cent of the final price of their policy. The main reasons for motor vehicle theft include reselling cars taken from Spain to Eastern European countries or North Africa, dismantling them and selling the parts, defrauding insurance companies or using the vehicles to commit a crime.

Rather than sports cars or 4x4s, despite what many car enthusiasts might imagine, the vehicle of choice for car thieves is a Seat, and especially the Seat León. This was the most commonly stolen car in our country last year, closely followed by the Volkswagen Golf and the BMW 3 Series, according to the study Car Theft in Spain, carried out by Línea Directa Aseguradora and based on data from its customer portfolio.

The report was compiled by analysing over 8,400 cases of theft recorded by the company in the last six years from a total portfolio of 1.7 million customers.

Although in the last 20 years motor vehicle theft has halved, last year in Spain around 50,000 vehicles were stolen, of which only 30 per cent were recovered. There are several reasons for this reduction: modern cars are fitted with devices which make them more difficult to steal, the police have become more effective, the total

amount of theft committed by common criminals has dropped, and trading on the black market has declined. From the data examined, the general conclusion is that thieves prefer cars which have been purchased in recent years: nearly 40 per cent are cars between three and six years old and one in every 10 cars is four years old.

July is the month with the highest rate of motor vehicle theft (9.6%), and September (7%) is the lowest. Saturday was the day on which most vehicles were stolen last year (15.9%) and Sunday, (12.4%), was when fewest were stolen.

Type of ThefT and modus operandi In general, there are three basic types of motor vehicle theft: firstly the type carried out by organised gangs, who steal cars to dismantle them or sell them outside Spain, especially in Eastern European countries and in North Africa; secondly, theft carried out by individuals wishing to defraud their insurance company (they report to the police that the car was stolen by a person or persons using violence, collect the compensation from the insurance company and then sell the vehicle on the black market, changing its identity, chassis number, registration number, etc.), and finally, theft committed by individuals for fun or in order to commit other crimes, such as smash-and-grab raids or drug trafficking.

map of car ThefT in spain Línea Directa has also drawn up a map of car theft in Spanish regions based on its own customer portfolio.

The results show that 12% of car theft takes place in Madrid, followed at some distance by Toledo (5.5%) and Alicante (4,7%). Taking into consideration the 50 provinces throughout Spain, Cuenca, Lugo and Cáceres have the lowest rates of theft.

Tips on hoW To aVoid moTor VehicLe ThefT

To minimise the occurrence of car theft, Línea Directa recommends the following: Z Take care when parking in the street and always check that the vehicle is locked and in a reasonably safe place, which has plenty of light, is monitored or has a lot of people around.

Z Be careful in petrol stations: do not leave the keys in the ignition or leave the car unlocked while you are filling it with petrol.

Z Consider installing anti-theft devices, such as an immobiliser for the steering wheel or gearbox, an alarm or a tracking device for the vehicle. They will not prevent your vehicle from being stolen, but they could be a factor in dissuading thieves.

Z It is advisable to purchase an insurance policy which includes theft cover in case your vehicle is stolen. According to Línea Directa’s calculations, the difference between basic third party insurance and third party insurance including theft cover is slightly less than €50 euros (€300 euros as opposed to €250 for basic insurance).

disTriBuTion of ThefT accordinG To reGion ■ High: >3% ■ Average: 1-3%

■ Low: <1% ■ No significant results

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i For futher information, Tel: 902 123 104. www.lineadirecta.com

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THE PRO business Walking into this futuristic office based in the El Rosario commercial centre, you could be forgiven for wondering whether this really is the office of real estate firm, Sands Marbella Property.

T

adds, “I enjoy dealing with people in a relaxed manner and as I plan to continue living in this area, it is very important for me to connect with the people that will become my neighbours.

I also think it is vital to give something back to this community, which I have enjoyed for so long. For every property we sell, I plan on paying the full year’s rent for a family whose home has been repossessed”. The idea that those who make money, have a duty to enrich their community, is certainly novel in this neck of the woods. But that is Darren Sands for you: a highly committed, invested individual who sees beyond the balance sheet.

Darren is backed by a multi-lingual sales team and he has also contracted the services of “one of the most renowned marketing firms in the UK, which targets our services to specific demographics and geographic locations.” As a team leader, he foments the value of “organic, sound, slow growth”.

Upon my request, Darren shows me properties for sale that he finds particularly interesting: one, a brand new villa with a full first occupation licence, impressive sea views and four bedrooms, standing on a 1,150m2 plot with a built area of 426m2. Another is a fourbedroom villa in Bahía de Marbella, beautifully cared for and just 100 metres from the beach, with four bedrooms, situated on a 1,740m2 plot and boasting a 698m2 built area.

Darren is hopeful for the future of the real estate market, citing both Russian and Chinese investors as particularly powerful.

“A new scheme is being proposed, in which any Russian or Chinese purchaser buying a house worth €160.000 or more will automatically be granted residence. This programme has been

hugely successful in Cyprus and holds great promise for Spain as well.” However, Darren’s main focus is his local market, which although open for investment and growth, is still very strong with people upgrading and downsizing alike. “People simply love this area and find it difficult to move away once they have had the pleasurable experience of living here.” e

he welcoming and modern reception features a LED light display and an eye catching crystal bar stocked with what founder and director Darren Sands reminds me is the “worlds most popular soft drink”, as well as a tempting selection of energy drinks and waters. Moving further into the office you will see another wonderful feature: an acid-treated marble table bearing a distinctly autumnal, leaf-styled effect. From here you are invited to sit down and preview properties on the 50 inch HD television that sits above the marble table.

This very innovative idea makes searching for a property in the hands of Sands Real Estate a definite pleasure. Rather than spending hours looking around properties that may well not be of interest, you can mull over the prospective properties on the MAC-programmed television and narrow down your search to select only the properties that really catch your eye.

Darren Sands launched Sands Real Estate just six months ago, building on the wealth of knowledge he has acquired over the last 15 years running his very successful company specialising in the construction of luxury villas.

Darren is welcoming, warm and above all, he knows the property market (particularly in the area of El Rosario and Los Monteros) insideout. He has lived in El Rosario for 15 years and has first hand experience of what he calls a promising new era: “Last year, some 22 houses were sold in this area,” he says, “and only three of these were distressed sales.” Darren K attributes the positivie outlook to “a new breed O.U Y.C of house buyer” who is seeking to buy a H AP GR home to actually live in, far removed TO O H from the typical purchaser of HP ©K Y five years ago, who was H AP GR O mainly motivated by T O PH quality investments.

Sands Real Estate specialises in the East side of Marbella where people are increasingly relocating due to the selection of fine schools, shops, restaurants, unbeatable beaches and the lush green environment that this coast offers. He

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g C.C. Nuevo Rosario, Local 1, Urb. El Rosario, Marbella. Tel: 952 836 646 / 607 602 020. www.sandsmarbellaproperty.com 3/21/13 6:14 PM

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the ViBe

Black & White association and Plenty of art The International Black & White Association recently organised a fun exhibition in Fuengirola to commemorate two important events in our yearly calendar: International Women’s Day and International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Art buffs flocked to see works by a myriad of artists who believe in the power of art to unite genders and races.

“There is no black-and-white situation. It’s all part of life. Highs, lows, middles” – Van Morrison

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THe VIbe

Marbella WoMan’s Week Celebrates the Multi-FaCeted lives oF WoMen Marbella Woman’s Week is an exciting yearly event featuring talks, awards, fashion and workshops, aimed at women. Some of Marbella’s most eminent media professionals, business professionals, stylists and fashion experts shared their information and expertise, in an event that is a true highlight for all women on the Coast with the drive and ambition to succeed.

“Above all, be the heroine of your life” – Nora Ephron

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THe ViBe

Laguna ViLLage Launches 2013 Season Savvy shopping centre, Laguna Village, recently held the launch of its 2013 season with a swish party attended by the who’s who of Marbella’s social scene. Guests tucked into delightful delicacies prepared by the talented Chefs at Camburi, Terra Sana, Carmen, La Pappardela and Puro Beach, and checked out trendy bikinis and summer wear at the Centre’s chic boutiques.

“Whoever said money can´t buy happiness simply didn´t know where to go shopping” – Bo Derek

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Essential marbella 230 x 300_Layout 1 06/02/2013 14:34 Page 1

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THE LEISURE travel

Given the choice most people would opt to spend their honeymoon in a romantic city or on the dreamy beaches of a tropical resort. Some might call this a tad clichéd but can you blame them?

After all, who’d choose to honeymoon in a mass tourist destination, a golf resort, a busy business city or even a remote adventure destination? Well, it’s true, some do just that, but for the most part honeymooners seek the kind of setting that provides a suitable backdrop for their loved-up state of mind. Even if you share the classic definition of what makes the ideal honeymoon destination, there are still ways to make it exciting and new. You could, for instance, opt for mainstream luxury or you could try that little bit harder and seek out a tropical beach or city experience that will stay with you for a long time.

The difference is sometimes a factor of quality and budget, but at other times merely the product of a little research and imagination.

Where in the

world would you

St Lu cia

ico Mex

Bali

Maui

Paris

Flor ence

honeymoon WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

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Peter Island Resort and Spa British Virgin Islands Photography © www.peterisland.com An aerial view of Peter Island Falcons Nest – luxury accommodation, Peter Island

Boats at sea

Should you wish to opt for a tropical paradise that’s upmarket and secluded then you could consider Peter Island, a privately owned emerald in the shimmering sapphire of the Caribbean Sea. Located within the rather exclusive British Virgin Islands, this really is a privately owned island – and just the kind of place favoured by the international jet set.

They like it so much because what you get is total privacy, serenity

Tranquility in the midst of wild Nature

and also luxury. A Robinson Crusoe island it may be, but this one comes complete with its own resort and spa, where willing staff is on hand to cater to your every whim. Having arrived with Bond-like grace in a helicopter or boat you can truly shut out the rest of the world for a while but with today’s technology needn’t feel cut off either.

Sumptuous individual villas form the accommodation, where you can relax, party or simply act to the manor

born. In addition to the pampering services of the spa personnel and the kitchen, activities such as snorkelling, sailing or adventure trials can be laid on specially. If that sounds too exerting there is always calming yoga in the Spa gardens or a stroll around your own island, with its five sandy coves and magnificent surroundings.

It’s just the setting to play out your Pirates of the Caribbean fantasy, or any other for that matter.

www.peterisland.com

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Chilling by the pool is easy at Grand Wailea Maui

i u a M a e l i a W d n Gra Photograph

y © Grand

i Wailea Mau

Relaxing at the spa

The impressive outdoor pool

Though it also doubles as a very popular luxury family hotel, the Grand Wailea in Maui, Hawaii, is also highly sought after by honeymooning couples. As tropical destinations go, it doesn’t get much dreamier than Hawaii, so looking across Pacific waters and palm trees to the rising peak of another island is some setting for sunsets and skies that you’ll not forget in a jiffy.

Part of the Waldorf Astoria Group, this is one imposing and luxuriant place, with a sweeping drive in the classic tradition and elegant marble entrance that together create a great first impression and sense of occasion. The suites are opulent, the spa

A Roman tub for two

extensive and the dining is done in style but on the immaculate lawn beneath the palm trees and beside the beach. This park-like setting extends amid swimming pools and water features framed by the ocean, where the beach invites you to go on romantic walks and just revel in the beauty of it all.

A popular daytime activity is to head out in an outrigger-style canoe in search of the large turtle colonies and go swimming or snorkelling with them. These gentle giants are a part of the local scenery and tend to have the same effect on humans that dolphins do. It’s a great way to begin a marriage; in fact, between the turtles, the spa, the pampering service and the scenery you should be just about set up to start your married life in the best possible frame of mind. www.grandwailea.com

Spa Luxury

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DANESA

LA

La revista danesa en España / Det danske magasin i Spanien

JANUAR 2013

NORSKE Det norske månedsmagasinet på Costa del Sol

Det

magasinet

S PA N I E N F Ö R S V E N S K A R

Sesongen er godt i gang på Europas sørligste skisportssted, Pradollano i Sierra Nevada.

Et ægte boutique-hotel

De vinder mere og mere frem, særligt i de europæiske storbyer, og nu også i de spanske.

La Danesa har studeret det hippe boutique-fænomen.

Mandesnak hos Mærsk

Torben Gram forlod sit job i Danmark til fordel for et liv i Spanien uden på forhånd at have arbejde, bolig eller kendskab til sproget.

• Intervjuer • Nyheter • Utflukter • Sport • Fakta • Kultur • Profiler • Politikk • Mote • Helse • og mye mer...

Jacob Haugaard er tilbage

La Danesa har mødt manden, som den 17. februar besøger Kysten med sit show ”Jacob – Solo”.

Spanske barn møtte Karius & Baktus

Siesta - myter og realiteter

Nesten 200 spanske barn og deres foreldre fikk nylig sitt første møte med de norske tanntrollene Karius og Baktus.

Du trodde kanskje at siestaen var en så inngrodd del av spansk kultur at ingenting kan rokke ved den. Tro om igjen!

Loja - en blomst blant torner Loja ligger 60 km vest for Granada, og det var selveste Isabel la Católica som i 1486, da byen overga seg til de kristne, kalte byen en blomst blant torner – “flor entre espinas”.

JANUAR 2013

Ecológico

Med inspiration hentet i Spanien og i Wien har Kirsten Vaupel begået sin første roman, og kan nu tilføje titlen forfatter til rækken af kulturelle hverv på sit farverige visitkort.

El Mercadillo

Les mer om aktiviteter på Costa de Sol i ¿Qué pasa?

Kirsten Vaupel debuterer med roman

Tomatkrig, vikingeslag og tyreløb, religiøse optog, pilgrimsfærd og menneskepyramider er blandt højdepunkterne på Spaniens kuriøse, kulturelle kalender.

en

Januari 2013

Sesong i Sierra Nevada

• Interviews • Nyheder • Bolig • Finans • Udflugter • Sport • Fakta • Kultur • Profiler • Politik • Mode • Helse

Kuriøse fiestas año 2013

sueco

Fler och fler upptäcker kustens kanske hälsosammaste marknad

Utflykt

El Escorial tronar på minnen om makt och historia.

Motor

Trike – trehjulingar för vuxna.

Resa

Läs ett vykort från Aten.

Profil

Lennart Lundquist är mannen bakom Internetsidorna Svenskar i Spanien.

Golf

Det nya året inleds med stora rabatter.

Sumptuous period interior

Villa Mangiacane Florence

Photography © Villa Mangiacane Florence

Florence, like Paris, offers the dreamy, romantic ambience of a beautiful classical city whose historical heart appears to belong to a more elegant age. Though bulging with monuments, museums and culture Florence is a little smaller and more intimate than the French capital, and as such well suited to those who alternately wish to be surrounded by people and left to themselves.

Perhaps the ideal solution, then, is to dip your toe into the city whenever you want but not reside amid the cacophony of locals and tourists. Do as discerning travellers do and book yourself into one of the classical villas draped among the lovely hills near Florence. Near enough to see the city but peaceful enough not to hear it, Villa Mangiacane is just such a classic Italian estate, complete with formal gardens surrounded by fields and vineyards.

The décor breathes Italian charm on a very sophisticated level and the suites are both large and opulent, many with their own mezzanines. It certainly is lovely to be able to linger on a panoramic terrace and laze by the pool while being so close to one of the most cultural spots on the planet. Indeed, Villa Mangiacane is like a setting straight out of a romantic novel.

Ok, so you like arriving at an estate in a helicopter but you also want a touch of adventure added to your honeymoon.

In that case your eye might be drawn to the Teitiare Estate on the Pacific coast of Mexico. If you also enjoy unspoiled natural beaches and tropical scenery around you then this is the one. A very peaceful and luxurious getaway, Teitiare features the kind of trendy understated chic that reveals its owners’ former connection with the fashion industry.

Highly personalised and once again familyrun, the estate is made up of a series of rather singular tropical villas complete with thatched roofs, panoramic decks and a pool that merges with the horizon of the Pacific. Teitiare is stylish, but it offers a chic simplicity that is suited to people who will appreciate the more natural things in life – like nature treks in the tropical surroundings, horse riding on the beach or going out with fishermen rather than jet-skiing. It’s the kind of place you could picture Brad and Angelina having their honeymoon. www.welcomebeyond.com

Unwinding at Teitiare Estate, Mexico

co i x e M e t a t s E e r a i Teit Photo

iare © Teit graphy

Est ate

Mexico

www.mangiacane.com

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If all that tropical beaches stuff is not for you but you revel in the classical notion of romance then it is hard to avoid the charms of Paris. The city with the international reputation as the Capital of Romance has so much to offer in the way of sights, culture, shopping, cuisine and entertainment that it might actually be too distracting for honeymooners, so maybe it’s best suited to those who already knew it well enough to have their favourite spots.

If Paris is the kind of place where memories are made then the Westin Paris Vendôme will help turn them into a dream sequence. Designed as the Hôtel Continental by Henri Blondel, nephew of the famous architect Charles Garnier, it became one of the grandest and most famous hotels in Europe. In a city renowned for its cuisine, fashion and beauty industry, this classical hotel in the finest traditions of elegance, refinement and luxury is one of the city’s best – as are its haute cuisine restaurants, famous bars, boutiques and spa. The sumptuous suites look out over the Rue de Rivoli and the Tuileries Gardens to the Eiffel Tower, and if you really splash out you can have a magnificent penthouse suite that takes in a broad swathe of the Paris skyline – but you might find some sheikh or tycoon has already booked it. www.thewestinparis.com

The Hotel boasts a spacious living room

Junior Suite with a view over Paris

Hotel W estin

Paris Ve ndôme Photograp

hy © the

westinpar

is.com

View over Paris Tuileries from The Hotel Westin Paris Vendôme

The Caribbean is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations of all, and not just with Americans but Europeans too. Set like a little cluster of paradise against the green folds of a bay in St Lucia, the British West Indies, is Rendezvous. Intimate yet complete, this exclusive boutique hotel is large enough to offer resort services but small enough to be very private and personal. What’s more, it’s couples-only, so there won’t be any rowdy kids to spoil the mood.

As idyllic Caribbean beach settings go Rendezvous scores almost embarrassingly high, with a white sandy beach curving around the deep blue waters of a very private bend of the coast on the northwest side of the island. From here, set within the languid embrace of tropical gardens, you look out to the Piton Mountains and your own offshore island, no doubt teaming with pirates’ treasure.

The main treasure of this discrete and bespoke hotel is the way it moulds itself to its guests, instead of the other way round.

This is possible because Rendezvous is not part of a chain but family-run, and they will lay on anything from water sports, cruises, excursions and spa treatments to preparing a gourmet dinner for two in the privacy of your own beachside suite – or on the beach for that matter. From here the sunsets are so picture postcard pretty it’s almost obscene, but you’d have to be a very grumpy honeymooner to find that anything but perfect. www.theromanticholiday.com

Photography © Rendezvous St Lucia

The tranquil bay at St Lucia

Rendezvous St Lucia

A bedroom with a view to paradise

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Villa rooftop lily pond in Bali

i l a B n a y a S t a s n o s a e S r Fou rap Photog

hy © F

our Se

as

li at S ons Ba

aya n /

Peter M

ealin

Romance blooms in Nature

The island of Bali, one of the prettiest in the immense archipelago that makes up Indonesia, offers the tropical delights of the Caribbean combined with the mystique of the East. Set in the lush hilly interior of this gorgeous small island, the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan may be part of an international chain, but then again it is a luxury chain and this is a particularly low-key hotel.

In fact, this Four Seasons resort feels less like a large luxury hotel and more like a plantation owners’ estate in the middle of a wild but noble tropical setting. From your tastefully opulent suite or one of the panoramic decks where you can enjoy a drink or open-air meal you’d almost expect to hear the call of wild animals – and in fact you just might. Venturing out to into the surrounding area you will come across pretty Hindu temples and local villages strewn between idyllic green farmland and

countryside that you’re encouraged to cycle, hike or stroll though. The Ayung River, meanwhile, provides just the spot for meditation and canoeing, while butterfly parks, the monkey forest reserve and the elephant park offer a touch of adventure too.

In the longstanding tradition of this region a large range of pampering spa treatments is an integral part of the experience too, alongside richly flavoured Balinese cuisine and a beach club setting that is the pinnacle of the ocean experience. Languid and elegant, the pace is slow and the setting astride a river overlooking inspiring countryside memorable, while the famously hospitable Balinese will do everything to make you feel welcome and looked after. The only thing you need to focus on in a place like this is enjoying yourself and creating happy honeymoon memories. www.fourseasons.com/sayan/

A fine Balinese meal fit for a King and Queen Disconnecting from the world’s stresses at the Four Seasons

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onl i ne&oďŹ&#x201E;i nes ol ut i ons

ma r k e t i nga sy ouha v ene v e r s e e nbe f or e. . .

www. me di a t i x . e s i nf o@me di a t i x . e s

THE LEISURE hotel

Sensations

THE THB RESERVA DEL

HIGUERÓN **** CLASS HOTEL WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THB HOTELS

Reserva del Higuerón has long been known as one of the most exclusive areas to live near Fuengirola, comprising a myriad of apartments, semi-detached houses and villas. Perched on a lofty mountain range and boasting panoramic sea views, it is also home to the exclusive Nagomi Spa and Sports Club, with its five-star luxury spa circuit, 11 paddle tennis and two tennis courts, creative Mediterranean cuisine restaurant, two exterior pools embedded in the midst of the splendour of Nature and an interior

S

ome nine months ago, Reserva del Higuerón teamed up with the prestigious THB Group (which boasts 16 hotels to its name, 14 of which are situated on the Balearic Islands and two of which stand proudly on the Coast) to open the THB Reserva del Higuerón **** Class Hotel. The latter is at once connected to, yet distinct from, the Sports Club. As of May, it will be marketed to an exclusively adult audience, which makes immediate sense from the moment its futuristic, spherical crystal doors slide open to receive you.

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Olympic-sized pool with four lanes. The Sports Club features a gym that is revered for the seriousness of its Pilates, Yoga and spin classes and its technologically savvy machines, supplied by world leading brand, Technogym. The Club is a tranquil haven for sports buffs and families alike, with even little children channelling their inner Nadal or Navratilova on the magnificently maintained courts, or learning brand new skills in classes like Brazilian sensation, capoeira martial arts.

Those who are tired of rustic or typically coastal décor (do dark blue and sunny yellow schemes sound familiar?) will find their perfect match at this Hotel. Minimalistic, arty, housing an array of installations and paintings, it is poised to satisfy even the keenest aesthete. Permanent and temporary exhibitions keep guests up-to-date on the trendiest artists on the scene.

The communal areas of the Hotel comprise a visual feast, starting with the reception, which boasts features such as wood and iron

installations, an exhibition featuring a legendary Austin Healey and retro motorbike, a shiny wooden boat hull suspended above a winding staircase, and an inviting lounge area (the Gullety Bar) with its central, circular fireplace, egg-shaped chairs and contemporary versions of the classic Chesterfield sofa. A few steps ahead from the reception desk is the Lobby Bar, where guests are offered a chilled glass of Champagne or a soothingly warm coffee upon arrival. Overhead, dazzling green and pink LED light displays on the ceiling usher one into the future, yet despite all the modernity, the starring role goes to clear crystal walls, which make the most of the sunlight and offer guests an unbeatable view of the mountains, sea and luxury sports installations below.

The Hotel boasts 177 rooms, 153 of which are a blend of standard and double rooms and 24 of which are Junior Suites. The décor stands out for its pristine whiteness and luxurious features such as free-standing baths, situated comfortably by the window and affording outstanding views of the sea. The look is minimalistic, yet warm touches are provided by little details such as tree stump benches and dark beige muslin curtains.

The restaurants are not quite what you would expect. Guests flock to the popular breakfast and buffet restaurant for rather different fare from what you normally might find; forego a typically heavy meal and order a ‘calamari cone’ or a tapa served traditional style, in your own personal clay dish. The experience is as close to a Malagueño’s idea of a feast as can be, proving what a beautiful marriage tradition and sophistication can make.

If we had to pick our very favourite space in the Hotel it would undoubtedly be the Infinity sky lounge: an über stylish jaunt for trendy urbanites, featuring wooden decked flooring, an infinity pool that seems to extend effortlessly into the sea, and external showers inspired simultaneously on the world of boating and aviation. Separated by vivid red crystal, each shower has a screen displaying the coolest new music videos. This is an area characterised by sophistication in design, an extremely chilled vibe and relaxing music which, taken together, immerse clients in a profound state of Zen. The the THB Reserva del Higuerón **** Class Hotel may be a newcomer to the scene, but it is already being hailed in travel sites and the most popular Internet forums as un hotel destino, a concept difficult to translate but which embodies the idea of visiting a hotel for the hotel’s sake. With a fleet of electric cars available for hire, a specialty train that takes guests to and from the private Beach Club, a plethora of golf courses nearby and Marbella at a distance of just 20 minutes (and Málaga just 15 minutes) away, the Hotel is indeed inviting enough to toss caution to the wind, make a booking and enjoy a holiday made in heaven.

g Reserva del Higuerón, Fuengirola. Tel: 951 505 101. www.thbhotels.com 3/20/13 12:21 PM

J a po né s·J a pa ne s e Abi e r t oMa r t e s-Sá ba do

Ope nTue s da y-Sa t ur da y

Os us umeオススメ Me núRe c o me nda do Re c o mme nde dMe nu 49€( i v ai nc . )5pl a t o s-5c o ur s e s

65€( i v ai nc . )c o nv i no ss e l e c t o s-wi t hs e l e c t e dwi ne s

NAMAZAKE·HOTELPUENTEROMANO ·MARBELLA RESERVAS· RESERVATI ONS: TARA630962852·RAFA676920474

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gour

RESTAURANTS / REVIEWS / NEWS / WINE / CHEFS / GUIDE

Tempt your tastebuds at local dining haven, Nueva Campana and discover a world of romance and traditional delights at Aroma in Fuengirola. Enjoy our interview with Casino Marbellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jordi Miquel and learn all about why, when it comes to wine, the glass definitely makes a difference.

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Aroma

132

Food News

134

Chef Profile: Jordi Miquel of Casino Marbella

136 The Importance of Wine Glasses

3/21/13 6:45 PM

THE ART OF FINE THAI CUISINE RESERVATIONS: 952 818 392 Open Every Evening for Dinner Ctra. de Cรกdiz Km. 175 PUERTO BANร S (Behind The Shell Petrol Station) Marbella www.thaigallerymarbella.com

TAI PAN chinese cuisine polynesian bar

Serving Marbella in a Select Atmosphere for Decades.

Tel: 952 777 893 / 952 775 500 Puente Romano, Fase 2, Marbella.

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00 www.taipanmarbella.com

SUKHOTHAI Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine

Tel: 952 770 550 Open Mon-Sat. C.C. Marbellamar, L-3A. Marbella. www.sukhothaimarbella.com

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restaurant THE GOURMET

nuevA CAMpAnA WORDS C. andersen PhOtOgRAPhy © khphotography.Co.uk

A Meeting of Classic Retro and Modern Mediterranean Cuisine

H

aving to organise a dinner party for ten people, I decided to go to one of Nueva Andalucia’s most popular eateries, restaurant Nueva Campana. On the site of the ‘Old Bell’ (as it was affectionately known), now completely refurbished and just about to celebrate their first anniversary, it is serial restaurateur and foodie Garry Waite’s latest venture. Gone are the old remnants of Spanish antiquity, replaced with light tones of grey mixed with stunning aubergine, comfortable chairs and elegant cloths. There was an inviting log fire and ample bar area for pre dinner drinks from a well stocked bar. Just before the end of last year Garry needed to expand a little and completely refurbished an old storeroom into an elegant restaurant/private dining room, where we were to eat.

The menu in part was a mix of Classic Retro and Modern Mediterranean. With ten of us it was a chance to sample most of the dishes on offer and we did! Among the memorable starters were Rich Homemade Lobster Bisque with Poached Prawns, Sautéed Wild Mushrooms on Toast with a Poached Hens Egg with Hollandaise sauce and Seared Scallops flavoured with Pernod on a Fennel and Celery Puree with a clam and pancetta salsa. Some of us went ‘Retro’ with such classics as Moules Marinière and Coquille St Jacques, all excellent.

Each night (Wednesday to Saturday), their resident pianist Jens plays easy listening music at just the right volume allowing conversation to take place with ease. Service was slick and attentive in the hands of Scott Wood, an experienced, bilingual front-of-house operator.

The ladies went fishy, such as a spectacularly presented Flash Fried King Prawns with a Trio of Dipping Sauces, Pan-fried Hake Steak with a Surf

Clam and Bacon Fricassé and Grilled Fillet of Sea Bass with crisp fried cockles.

We Guys went for something big and beefy. One of us chose the Nueva Campana Sizzling Steak, a very theatrical presentation of rib eye with sautéed mushrooms and onions on a hot skillet flamed with brandy. A Braised Pork Belly with Mustard Mash, Glazed Apples and Black Pudding with a lovely crispy crackling top was described as just perfect, as was the beautifully presented Rack of

Lamb with a Rosemary and Roast Garlic Crust with 48 Hour Braised Shoulder, but nobody could beat those of us who had the classic Tournedos Rossini!

A Fillet Steak with Foie Gras and Truffles served on a Crouton with sautéed spinach, Madeira wine sauce and Dauphinoise potatoes.

The kitchen is in the capable hands of the very talented and extremely amiable Irish man, Maurice Curtin. Maurice has worked in some of Irelands finest restaurants before migrating to Spain with his partner.

His Dark Chocolate Fondant with Cherry Icecream and Spiced Honey Syrup was up there with the very best. The Warm Sticky Toffee Pudding with Vanilla Ice-cream and the house’s signature dessert the Bannoffee Cheesecake with Glazed Bananas went down well with the girls. A couple of the guys went for a selection of cheese and a measure of port while I had a glass of Sauterne. Sad that the cheeses were not as they could have been. I suppose it’s difficult in a restaurant to maintain Brie and Camembert in perfect condition as they tend to come from the fridge although the Stilton and Mature Cheddar were praised for their quality (as was the Taylors Late Bottled Vintage Port).

It is unusual to find such a collection of interesting wines in a small mid-priced range restaurant. A great choice of inexpensive Spanish wines joins a mix of New World and French and apart from the latter, most are under €30. The selection of 14 house wines – all available by the glass, including Cava and Champagne – is excellent.

Nueva Campana has continued the tradition from El Rincon with their Sunday Lunches, with Rib of Beef carved from the trolley as well as a further half dozen dishes or so from €14,95. They also serve an excellent three course value for money daily menu for only €15.

On the negative side, parking can be difficult unless you get there early and with a couple of large tables in at the same time as us, the slight wait between courses was noticeable. It was made up for by the quality and value of the evening and the attentiveness of Garry and his team, and if a restaurant is that busy I suppose it’s inevitable.

But as they say, good food is worth waiting for and fast food isn’t! And at €40-€50 per person the restaurant’s motto of Good Food, Good Wine and Good Friends is apt – Make that New Friends! g Open for lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday

and Sunday night. C/ Miguel Cervantes 68, Urb La Campana, Nueva Andalucia.

Tel: 952 814 041/ 629 273 765. www.nuevacampana.com ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM APRIL 2013 / 129

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RESTO

EL COTO

BELGIAN RESTAURANT бельгийский ресторан

NEW MENU Open every day Ctra. de Ronda Opposite Madroñal, nº 3 29679 Benahavis Tel: 952 786 688 belgianresto@gmail.com НОВОЕ МЕНЮ открыты ежедневно дорога Ronda напротив Madroñal, No 3, Benahavis телефон: 952 786 688

RESTO

MYTILUS BELGIAN RESTAURANT

BELGIAN SPECIALITIES Mussels and fries, steak tartare, vol au vent etc.

Open every evening.

Saturday & Sunday open all day.

Puerto Deportivo Sotogrande Tel: 956 790 212 belgianresto@gmail.com

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restaurant THE GOURMET

...where creativity meets comfort

WORDS Marisa cutillas PhOtOgRAPhy © khphotography.co.uk

S

Aroma

elf-confessed foodies on the Coast often say that Roque Martínez, chef, restaurateur and founder of the popular Jinete in Mijas and Aroma by the Fuengirola beach, has the Midas touch: everything he touches turns to gold; every dish he creates, is magic on the palate; a marriage of tradition, originality and good home cooking that soothes the soul and remains in the memory.

Marbella diners are more than familiar with Jinete at La Cala de Mijas; the welcoming venta is usually buzzing with excitement, as diners from as far as Estepona or Nerja tuck into tender, juicy steaks, freshly caught fish and seasonal specials.

Roque was the Executive Chef of Shakespeare, Fuengirola’s most popular restaurant, for over 20 years. When he decided to venture forth on his own and open Aroma, it came as no surprise that his flock of followers would turn this beachside haven into the new place to be. It certainly possessed all the ingredients that spelled success: Roque, who happens to be Argentinean, is predictably famous for the excellence of his

that are excellent yet reasonably priced.

Visit Aroma by night and you will see how the bubbling yet chilled vibe is very much a product of Chris’ energy and attentiveness; everyone knows him, likes him and seeks him out. Chris indeed seems to be ever present at Aroma, a product of his strong work ethic (his mother was the Public Relations Officer of Irish President, Mary Robinson, and his father, a military man). “My parents always allowed us to pursue our heart’s calling, but they always had high expectations of us,” he says.

Roque and Chris form part of a holy triumvirate in Fuengirola (the third man in the team is John, part-owner of the restaurant) and the synergy between the two is palpable from the word go; laughter, good-hearted chiding and lots of rapport make for incredibly entertaining conversation.

The interiors of Aroma warm the heart, with bold red hues and passionate paintings of flamenco dancers acting as harbingers of the warm, hearty meal that is to come. The à la carte menu contains a selection of tasty

ones. Rest assured, the philosophy that rules both kitchens is identical: a respect for top quality produce, a penchant for making everything from scratch, and a no-nonsense philosophy when it comes to food. Think of grilled juicy steaks (the entrecote bears an unbeatable flavour and melt-in-themouth texture), buttery fried fish or plump, juicy prawns al pil-pil; what you see is what you get at Aroma. “Old favourites have likewise made a huge comeback,” says Chris, citing beef stroganoff and show-cooked dishes such as the steak tartare or Chateaubriand – sliced at the table – as some of the delights that will soon be coming back to Aroma. “We can prepare any dish diners ask us to, even if it is not on the menu, especially if they ask us beforehand,” he says.

steaks, though his considerable talent at fish, seafood and side dishes also stands out.

At Aroma, for the past 14 years, Roque has also been lucky enough to count on the creativity of Chef, Maitre D’ and Sommelier, Chris Doran, a dashing Irishman whose creative talent is matched by his exemplary social skills. A graduate in Art History who is capable of losing an entire day painting, Chris is as comfortable whipping up comforting soul food by day (“Everything here, from the breads to the sauces and pasta, is made by hand”), as he is recommending wines

meat dishes off the grill, as well as pastas and the freshest of fish and seafood selections.

Chris, who honed his craft in the South of France under the guiding hand of Jean Michel Bur, pays homage to French tradition and reminds me that he casually fell into the intricate world of wine when Jacqueline de Ribes ‘the last Countess of Paris’, introduced him to an expert in wines who would act as his mentor.

Those who are regulars at Jinete will be pleased to find some of their favourite dishes here, and to discover completely new

On my last visit to Aroma I savoured a creamy, soothing coquilles Saint-Jacques, enjoying every greedy mouthful, washed down with a wonderfully floral yet reasonably priced Torres Santa Digna Rosé from Chile. Equally fantastic were the ultra-crisp duck spring rolls, served with a sweet and tangy blend of hoisin and yoghurt sauces.

If traditional cuisine presented in a creative, appetising manner, highly attentive service with a smile, artistry of surrounds and proximity to the sea are the building blocks of Aroma’s success then surely the savoir faire and panache afforded by Chris and Roque, are the je nais se quoi that makes it easy to fall in love with this restaurant’s cuisine, again and again.

g Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 23, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 665 502. www.restaurantearoma.com

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THE GOURMET news

Thomas Stork of the Hotel Puente Romano named

best chef in Andalucía

First Costa del sol intersChool Quiz and da Bruno

WORDS Marisa CUTiLLas

The First Costa del Sol i-Answer Da Bruno Interschool Quiz took place recently at the Andalucía Lab de Marbella, with the participation of 140 students aged 11 to 12, from the following schools: Aloha International College, Swans International School, Benalmádena International College, MIT Málaga, Colegio Alborán, English International College and Sunny View School.

Students participated in the Individual and Group categories, answering questions from a host of different subjects using the very latest in interactive technology. Congratulations are in order to the winners, Aloha International College. g www.dabruno.com

new eatery at Benavista Neli G’s is the new kid on the Benavista block.

Located between San Pedro and Estepona, this delightful café bar prides itself on serving delicious, high quality breakfasts, lunches and snacks, always home-cooked and presented with a smile. Neli G’s is a family business welcoming children to the dedicated kids’ corner, while Mum and Dad relax with a coffee, sandwich, or brandy-laced milkshake! Their bread and cakes are freshly baked and there’s a healthy children’s menu too! g Las Palmeras de

Benavista 4, CN340, km 167, Estepona. Tel: 952 928 576. www.neligs.com

Thomas Stork, Executive Chef of the Hotel Puente Romano in Andalucía, was recently deemed Best Chef in Andalucía at the Gastronomy Awards of Andalucía, 2013. The German-born Chef began his culinary career at 14 and has worked in a plethora of prestigious establishments, including three-Michelin starred restaurant, Residenz Heinz Winkler. He also worked at the Hotel Las Dunas for 10 years, earning a Michelin star in the process.

g www.puenteromano.com

Heeding tHe Call of Spring at nueva KaSKada Ewald Fichthaler, the German Master Chef known for his fresh, seasonal, internationally influenced cuisine, has acquired Nueva Kaskada restaurant, after heading the kitchen for two years and recently taking over as Director. Ewald has many plans lined up for his new baby. The romantic al fresco Patio de Limonero, located on the ground floor, is now an ideal getaway for those seeking delicious afternoon appetisers and a glass of wine, especially after a busy afternoon shopping at nearby commercial centre, La Cañada. Ewald’s ‘menu de las aromas’ features a host of delicious dishes for the Spring/Summer season. Feast your eyes and taste buds on the langostine and salmon carpaccio served with a crayfish timbal in herb oil, a Bellini Cava foam with scallops, and a Venice-style beef fillet, served with a sweet potato mousse and Spring vegetables. The restaurant will also be offering seasonal menus, such as the upcoming asparagus menu. The exquisite patio will soon be hosting romantic candlelit dinner evenings, featuring live music. The Chef delighted the Marbella jetset recently with the presentation of his new Spring menu, which was a huge hit with even the most sophisticated of gastronomes.

g Urb. La Montua, C/ Chorreadero 39, Marbella. Tel: 952 864 478. www.nuevakaskada.com

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THE GOURMET profile

I

f you loved Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen then you probably noticed how stressful the typical chef’s life is: long hours, the pressure to please and the desire to excel, imbue a sombre, resigned facet to the character of many. Jordi Miquel is about as far-removed from the stereotype as one could imagine.

Imposing in build and boasting the looks of Oscar winning actor Javier Bardem, he is beaming on the day we meet, for he has just spent the day with his wife (a renowned somellier) and their new baby daughter, Claudia, whom he describes as his “inspiration for everything, a reason to get up and brave the day on a natural high”.

Jordi is a born-and-bred Malagueño, though his name intimates his Catalán ancestry (his father is from Barcelona).

“I’ve never worked in Barcelona, though La Boquería (Barcelona’s world-famous market) is the most impressive market I have ever seen; every Chef should visit it at least once”, he gushes. Jordi has a passion for bacalao (salted Spanish cod) and La Boquería happens to house an entire area dedicated to this salty sensation. “They run water along the fish to de-salt it before your eyes and the flavour and texture of the cod is the same as I recall from my childhood; nowadays, it can be hard to find the real thing. My grandmother had a store and she used to sell salted cod that was four fingers thick!”

Fresh, seasonal, ‘real’ cuisine is what Jordi is all about. His earliest memories involve accompanying his grandmother to the market, breathing in the fragrant aroma of garden grown fruits and vegetables. “My dad used to jokingly ask, ‘Why are you always in the kitchen?’ but from as far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a chef. I learnt many basic skills of cooking from my grandmother.”

Just after finishing his secondary studies, Jordi was admitted into Andalucía’s most prestigious cookery school: La Cónsula (the Escuela de Hostelería de Málaga). There, his teacher taught him the paramount value of quality produce.

Consistency is another value Jordi learned over the years: “There’s no point in coming to work one day in a great mood, whipping up a masterpiece then coming in another day and producing something mediocre!” he smiles.

Jordi describes his cuisine as a colourful blend of the Andalusian, Catalán and French traditions; “The French made all this possible,” he says, referring to the human penchant for savouring and sometimes living for, fine cuisine. “I worked in France for a few years and I was lucky enough to assist a chef who changed his menu daily! I recall the pleasure of going to market every day and hopping aboard fishing boats to find the freshest fish.” Jordi has also worked

The Magic

of Market Fresh Cuisine

JORDI MIQUEL OF THE CASINO MARBELLA WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY © KHPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK in Andalucía’s most avante-garde restaurants and cherishes his experience at the Hotel Gvadalpín, where he worked when the prestigious Hotel was in its heyday. He has been at the Casino Marbella for two years and considers ‘establishment hopping’ as rather prejudicial to one’s career.

Jordi insists on good service: “It’s no good offering clients a great dish if you don’t make them feel cared for and pampered. People come to the Casino to have a good time and that means that we prepare whatever they want. Our menu changes seasonally but clients will sometimes ask for something that isn’t on the menu… like a steak tartare or lamb chops and we happily provide what they are craving.”

At Casino Marbella, diners can look forward to traditional favourites like a big juicy steak and chips, as well as Mediterranean delights such as a heavenly confit of cod served with potatoes and topped

with fried paprika and Iberian ham. The salmon salad with guacamole and a curried yuca crunch is another firm favourite, with its variety in texture and flavour. And of course there’s the meat… fresh, succulent and so good it is often simply grilled and topped with a sprinkle of coarse salt and a trickle of extra virgin olive oil. Dishes are top-quality but reasonably priced. Jordi says, “Quality should never suffer but these days, one simply should not charge ludicrous prices for a meal.”

As Jordi heads for the kitchens, his enthusiasm and warmth leave a lasting impression. In a world where so many people take themselves too seriously, coming across a professional who is talented and down-to-earth in equal measure, is tantamount to stumbling across the secret of culinary success: foregoing the ego and offering clients delicious, colourful, appetising dishes that make them happy.

Why else would you go out for a meal?

Open nightly for dinner from 8:30pm to 2am. Please remember to take your DNI, passport or driver’s licence in order to enter the Casino and restaurant.

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g Hotel H10 Andalucía Plaza, Marbella. Tel: 952 814 000. www.casinomarbella.com 3/20/13 11:45 AM

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THE GOURMET wine

There is so much nonsense talked about wine, and if we gave credit to more than half of it there would be no pleasure left. Apparently, even experts would not be able to tell reds from whites if they were blindfolded, and if the same tasting session were repeated the following day the results would be very different. Young wines should be decanted; no, sorry, make that old, and wine should never be cooled in a refrigerator but in an ice bucket. And this is just for starters. Nevertheless, there is a more or less established principle that is easy to prove.

J

ulio Carrasco, of Marbella’s Vinacoteca La Cartuja, proves that the glass used for drinking wine can make a huge difference to the tasting experience. He does this by serving the same wine in five different glasses. He pours the wine before the taster arrives but makes sure to video himself doing it. The taster always says the wine in the finest crystal is the best of the ‘five’ wines. So beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but what the taster does not know is that, apart from the fact that the wine is the same, the ‘best’ wine came in a Riedel lead crystal glass.

If they don’t believe him he shows them the video.

Wine tastes awful if served in a plastic cup, or, even worse, a tin mug. We have all been in dire situations where the bottle was open but there were no proper glasses around. Champagne out of a coffee

WORDS AJ LINN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RIEDEL

Wine Glass

LORE

cup tastes like, well, Champagne out of a coffee cup.

And drinking a great vintage from a thimble-sized glass never allows the wine to show itself as well as if it were in a capacious copa that allows it to develop.

Every drinker knows that white wine glasses are smaller than red to preserve the colder temperature and keep the bouquet in longer, while with red wine the aim is to get the bouquet working from the first pour. They also know that those big brandy balloons are now ever so naff, and that you never hold a glass by anything but the stem so as not to warm the contents with your hand’s temperature and to keep your fingerprints off the glass.

But how far do we take this glass thing? Is it really worth paying €80 for a Riedel crystal Bordeaux glass?

There are different Riedel glasses for chardonnay, aged chardonnay, and unoaked chardonnay, ditto for wine made with pinot noir grapes. Glasses for tastings, glasses without stems that cannot be knocked over, and of course a legion of glasses for Champagne and sherry, port or Madeira. Add in the range of decanters of various shapes and sizes and you will understand why Riedel sells a washing-up machine exclusively for its glasses.

There are of course other manufacturers of lead crystal wine glasses, such as Swarovski, Borisov, Dyatkovsky, Neman, Waterford Crystal, Jasper Conran, and John Rocha; and now the Chinese have started making them at a fraction of western prices. Nevertheless Riedel is the granddaddy of them all, dating back more than 200 years, and at one time strategically allied with Swarovski.

Lead was originally used in glass-making because it made the finished item easier to cut, this being normal for the sort of decorated glassware in use back then. It also has an effect on the appearance of the glass, starting with a coloured sparkle not present in ordinary glass. It will be thinner than glass can ever be, made possible by the lead content. However, not all is positive. There is apparently a possibility that lead can leach from the glass into the wine – if left long enough, so no problem there then – and soaking new glasses for 24 hours in a vinegar solution will remove most of the surface lead.

Leaving the best for last, the advantage of drinking wine from crystal enables more of the wine’s aroma and taste to be released. The lead in the glass adds a microscopic texture, and this sets free more of the subtle flavours in a fine wine than when you swill it around in an ordinary glass to let it breathe. Rather like wine being poured over a rough surface rather than a smooth one. Not convinced? Do Julio’s trick.

Buy a Riedel glass and pour into it the best wine you have in your cellar, doing the same using an ordinary non-crystal glass. When you compare them you will be amazed, and will surely rush off and buy a complete set of lead crystal stems. Mind you, the top of the range Sommelier Black Tie glasses can set you back nearly 100 euros each.

Flick a crystal glass with your fingernail and it will give a satisfying ping; it will also feel heavier even when empty. If the wine is important to you, then the glass you use to drink it should be worthy of equal consideration. e

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theguide

RESTAURANTS / CINEMAS / GOLF / GYMS /

PRiCe guiDe ::::::: per head for a three-course meal with wine

RESTAURANTS ::: AMERICAN ::: HARD ROCK CAFÉ

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

C/Ramón Areces, esq. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 024

JACKs Open seven days a week from noon till late.

Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 813 625, Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 563 673

MR. gOuRMet buRgeR

TENNIS / SCHOOLS

under €25

€25 – €40

Open 10am until midnight every day. Plaza Antonio Banderas 17/29, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 136 333

YAnx Open from 9am Monday to Saturday and Sunday from 11am for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Centro Plaza, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 861

::: ARGENTINEAN ::: buenOs AiRes sOutH

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Virgen del Pilar, 6, Marbella.

Tel: 952 779 297

Open from 6pm ‘til late every evening. Avda.

Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 785 257

CleRiCó

ROute 66

tAngO

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda.

Antonio Belón, 22, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 683

€40 – €60

€60 plus

Open daily for dinner except Tuesdays. Puerto Banús (opp. the car park). Tel: 952 812 358

::: BELGIAN ::: el COtO

CHAteAu MOnA lisA Open every day for lunch and dinner. Muelle Ribera 8, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 808

RenDez vOus

Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Ronda (El Madroñal), San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 786 688

Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6pm and Sunday from 9am to 2pm. Closed Tuesday.

Avda. del Prado, Aloha Gardens, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 813 912

MYtilus

vAlDeRRAMA RestAuRAnt

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de Los Naranjos s/n, Sotogrande. Tel: 956 790 212

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner only and on Sunday for Buffet Lunch. Apartado 1, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 132.2 Sotogrande, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 791 200

::: FRENCH ::: CAsA MOnO

Open Monday to Saturday from 1pm to 11pm.

C/ Calderón Estébanez 19, Marbella. Tel: 952 774 578

::: GREEK ::: ReD PePPeR

Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

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Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. T el: 952 812 148

::: GRILLS :::

AsAdor Criollo Grill Open nightly for dinner. CN340-A7, km. 166, Cancelada, El Saladillo. Tel: 952 784 463

AsAdor GuAdAlminA Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Urb. Guadalmina Alta, C.C. Guadalmina, Local 3, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 883 003

El CArniCEro Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Pueblo Viejo Cancelada. Between San Pedro & Estepona.

Tel: 952 886 307

El CArniCEro 2 Open every day for lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 176, Marbella. Tel: 952 867 599

El GAuCho

Tel: 952 867 306

tAJ mAhAl

BEACh housE

pirAtAs flAmE Grill

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Private parking available. Ctra. Cádiz, km 179 (behind Venta los Pacos). Tel: 952 857 670/ 629 244 659

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Coto de los Doles, Carril del Relojero, Elviria, Marbella.

Tel: 952 839 458

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday. Puerto Deportivo de Marbella, Locales 37-40, Marbella. Tel: 952 865 940

rEstAurAntE rAnCho Open daily for lunch and dinner. Ctra. Cádiz, exit Las Chapas. Tel: 952 831 922

::: INDIAN ::: JAipur pAlACE

Open every night except Tuesday for dinner.

CN340, km 194, next to Camping Cabopino, Marbella. Tel: 951 310 004

JAipur purplE Open daily for dinner. CN 340, km. 166, Estepona.

Tel: 952 888 353

littlE indiA

::: INTERNATIONAL ::: AlBErt & simon

Open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday and for dinner only on Saturday. Closed Sundays.

Urb. Nueva Alcántara, Edif. Mirador, Bloque 4-B, Marbella. Tel: 952 783 714

BlACk And whitE mArBEllA

AlBErts

BoulEvArd

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Cabopino.

Tel: 952 836 886

Open for dinner from 8pm. Avda. La Fontanilla, esquina Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 860 583

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle Benabola, under the Torre de Banús, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 815 607

AlumBrE

BruninGs

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Strachan 11, Málaga. Tel: 951 500 022

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 7 pm.

Las Palmeras 19, San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 786 156

AmAnhAvis

Open daily for dinner from 7.30pm. Galerías Paniagua. Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 528

Open daily for dinner from 7pm. Conj. Buenavista, L 21-22, Avda. de España, Calahonda. Tel: 952 931 829

El rAnCho dEl puErto

mAssAlA

Open for lunch and dinner every day. Muelle Benabola 4, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 252

Open daily for dinner. 57, Duquesa de Arcos (Sabinillas seafront). Tel: 952 897 358

Grill dEl puErto

mr. indiA

Open for lunch and dinner every day. Muelle Ribera 47H, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 686

Open daily from 6pm. Milla de Oro (next to Da Bruno a Casa), Marbella. Tel: 952 867 868

mArBEllA CluB Grill

mumtAz

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 23, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 665 502

Open every night for dinner. Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Casa No.7, P. Banús. Tel: 952 812 090

BABoo lounGE And rEstAurAnt

sAffron

old town Grill

Open from 7 pm ‘til late night every day. Parque de Elviria, local 7-9, Las Chapas (take second exit, after Hotel Don Carlos), Marbella. Tel: 952 830 146

Open every day for lunch and dinner, closing Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at 8pm. Ctra.

Arroyo de la Miel, s/n, Benalmádena. Tel: 902 102 675

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner and Sunday for lunch. C/ San Lázaro, 3, Pza. Victoria, Marbella.

BECkitts Open Monday to Sunday for dinner. C/ Camilo José Cela 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 898

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday from 8.00pm. Calle del Pilar 3, Benahavís. Tel: 952 856 026

AmiGos Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday. C/ Málaga 3, Benahavis. Tel: 952 855 175

AromA

CAfÉ dE rondA Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 149

CAmuri Open daily for lunch and dinner.

CN340, km 176, Marbella.

Tel: 952 765 533

CApitán Open for lunch and dinner every day except Wednesday. C/ Avila, Blq. 5, Local 1, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 799 635

CAsAnis Open every day from 6pm except Sundays.

C/ Ancha, 8, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 450

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the guide Price guide ::::::: per head for a three-course meal with wine celima Open every day for lunch and dinner. Hotel Hermitage, Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 895 639.

cerrado del águila

Friday and Saturday. CN 340, km. 168, Estepona.

Tel: 952 880 126

el corzo Open daily for dinner. Hotel Los Monteros, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 187. Tel: 952 771 700

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Urb. Cerrado del Águila, Camino del Acevedo, s/n, Mijas Costa. Tel: 951 773 521

el jinete

cortijo fain

el lago

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Algar, km. 3, Arcos de la Frontera, Cádiz. Tel: 956 704 131

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. Urb. Elviria Hills. Avda. Las Cumbres s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 371

cosy

el mirador

Open every night for dinner from 7pm. Paseo de Las Palmeras 25, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 951 087 899

Open for breakfast every day. At the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Resort. CN 340, km. 159, Estepona.

Tel: 952 809 500

don leone

el oceano Beach hotel restaurant and sPa

Open every night for dinner. Puerto Banús, Marbella. Tel: 952 811 716

don Quijote Open every evening for dinner (7pm-12am). Urb. El Rosario, km. 188, Marbella. Tel: 952 834 748

dynamic café Open Monday to Sunday for lunch. Ctra. de Istán, km. 0.9, C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 021

el Bolero Open every night for dinner from 8-11pm. The San Roque Club, CN 340, km. 127, Cádiz. Tel: 956 613 030

el camPanario Open every day for lunch. Open for dinner on

Open daily for dinner except for Friday. Ctra. La Cala Golf, km 45, La Cala de Mijas. Tel: 952 119 170

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

€60 plus

finca Besaya

hotel marBella cluB Buffet

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Rio Verde Alto, s/n. Tel: 952 861 382

Open every day for lunch. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 695 114 / 619 694 484

finca el forjador

karma

Open daily for lunch from 1-4pm, Wednesday to Sunday. Ctra. de Casares, km. 10. Tel: 952 895 120

Open every day from 10am until late. C/ Las Violetas 7, Conjunto Andalucía Garden Club, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 815 736

finca las Brasas Open daily for lunch and dinner. Ctra. FuengirolaMijas, between CN 340 and highway. Tel: 952 580 513

khala

galeria san Pedro

la Biznaga

Open from 11am until midnight. Closed Sundays.

Avda Las Palmeras 15, San Pedro Alcántara.

Tel: 952 780 927

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sunday for lunch only. Ctra. Ronda, km.

46, Urb. Las Medranas, local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 951 275 750

gd gourmet deli marBella

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. NH Alanda Hotel, Marbella. Tel: 952 899 600

la Brisa

Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km. 199, Miraflores Playa. Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 587 550

Open 9:30am to 9pm from Monday to Friday and Saturday from 12am to 6pm. Closed Sundays.

Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 774 049

el oliVo

girasol

la caBaña del mar

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch. At Marbella Golf & Country Club. CN 340, km. 188, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 500

Open daily for dinner from 6.30p.m. Avda. del Prado, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. Tel: 952 813 859

el restaurante del casino

hermosa

Open every day for lunch and for dinner from Monday to Saturday. Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona CN 340, km 159, Playa El Padrón, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

Open every day for dinner from 8pm-4am. Hotel Andalucía Plaza s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 814 000

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm.

Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino.

Tel: 952 837 483

faBiola Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sundays for lunch. Cortijo Los Canos, Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro, CN-340, km. 132,

herrero del Puerto Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Casas de Campos, 1, Málaga. Tel: 952 122 075

Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm.

Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km. 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

la cantina del golf Open for breakfast and lunch until 8pm.

Closed Sunday. Flamingo Golf Club, Cancelada, Benahavís. Tel: 951 318 815

la esencia Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. Hotel Incosol,

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Urb. Golf Rio Real, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 831 303

La Loggia

Quinta, Urb. La Quinta Golf s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 762 000

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks. Hotel Villa Padierna & Flamingos Golf Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 166 (Cancelada exit), Benahavís. Tel: 952 889 150

Los bandidos

La Menorah

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km. 198, Cambio de Sentido Riviera del Sol, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 932 780

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Arena Beach, CN 340, km. 151.2, Estepona.

Tel: 952 792 734

La Terraza

Open every night for dinner. Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 915

Max beach

Mc café

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

C/ Moncayo 12, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 460 232 / 648 502 822

4.30pm, Friday and Saturday from 1:30pm to 4.30 pm and 8pm to 10.30pm. Ctra. de Ojén, km 22, A355, Marbella-Monda. Tel: 952 864 455

Passion café

shiraz

Open for lunch and dinner every day. C.C. La Colonia, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 781 583

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Puerto Deportivo, Local 15, Marbella. Tel: 952 778 334

Poco Loco beach Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Playa Hermosa, CN 340, Km 189, Marbella.

Tel: 952 836 170

sKina Open for dinner Monday to Saturday. C/ Aduar 12, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 277

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n. Tel: 952 822 211

PoLynesians

sMaLL WorLd café

Open everyday lunch and dinner. Golf Hotel Guadalmina, Marbella. Tel: 952 882 211

Open Monday to Sunday from 5pm to 2am. Urb. La Alcazaba, CN 340, km 175. Tel: 952 816 100

La Terraza

Messina

Open daily for dinner. La Cala Resort, La Cala de Mijas, Mijas. Tel: 952 669 000

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday. Avda.

Severo Ochoa, 12, Marbella. Tel: 952 864 895

PuenTe roMano beach cLub

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ctra.

Istán, km 1, C.C: Le Village 15, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 046

La Veranda

Mozaic

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner.

Hotel Villa Padierna, Urb: Flamingos s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday. Urb. Las Chapas, Marbella.

Tel: 952 839 901

La Veranda Lobby bar

MirafLores goLf resTauranT

Open every day for lunch and dinner. At the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

Open daily for Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 199. Urb. Riviera Golf. Tel: 952 931 941

La Verandah

Open daily for lunch and dinner, except Tuesday.

La Campana, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 041

Open week days for dinner at 7:30pm and weekends for lunch and dinner, closed Tuesdays.

Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 136. Playa Guadiaro, Torreguadiaro, Cádiz. Tel: 956 615 998

nueVa caMPana nueVa KasKada

Los arcos

Open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Closed Monday and Tuesday. Urb. La Montua, C/ Chorreadero 39, Marbella. Tel: 952 864 478

Open every night for dinner. Hotel Meliá La

ocho

Open daily for lunch. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

Puro beach Open daily for lunch and dinner. Laguna Village, Playa El Padrón, CN 340, km 159, Estepona.

Tel: 952 800 015

rojo Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday. C/ Granada, 44, Málaga. Tel: 952 227 486

schiLo Open Thursday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Finca Cortesín. Crta. Casares s/n, Casares, Málaga.

Tel: 952 937 800

suaVe Open every day for lunch and dinner. Paseo Maritimo Rey de España 93, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 866 627

suiTe Dinner and afterwards dance to music by resident DJ. Thursday to Saturday. Hotel Puente Romano, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

sWing Open from 12-4pm and 7.30pm until midnight.

Closed Wednesdays. Arena Beach, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 151, Estepona. Tel: 952 796 320

Tanino

shanTi-soM – aMriTa

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. CN 340, km.168, Benamara, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 259

Open Monday to Thursday from 1.30pm to

Terra sana

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The guide Price guide ::::::: per head for a three-course meal with wine Open Monday to Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nueva Andalucía next to the Casino.

Tel: 952 906 205. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 817 977. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona.

Tel: 951 901 050

WhaT’s cooking deli and TakeaWay

The clubhouse bar & brasserie

Open every day for dinner from 7.30pm-12am.

Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 868

Open Tuesday to Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Urb. Los Naranjos de Marbella, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 908 844

The meeTing room

Open daily from 10am to 7pm. C.C. Guadalmina, Local 34, Marbella.

Tel: 952 886 748

zozoï

::: ITALIAN ::: al denTe

Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays.

Avda. Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella. Tel: 952 772 577

Open 7 days a week for dinner. Closed on Mondays. Urb. Jardines del Puerto, local 12, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 181

The orange Tree

amore e FanTasía

Open every evening from 6:30 pm-11 pm. Plaza General Chinchilla 1, Plaza de los Naranjos, Marbella. Tel: 952 924 613.

under €25

da Paolo

made in sardinia

Open everyday for lunch and dinner. Muelle Ribera, casa G-H, local 43, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 453

Open every night for dinner. C.C. Cristamar, Avda.

Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 608

de medici

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 446 460

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Guadalmansa, CN340, km 164, Estepona. Tel: 952 798 449

areTusa

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de Los Naranjos s/n, Sotogrande. Tel: 952 790 392

Trocadero arena

carPaccio

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Torre Real Beach, Marbella. Tel: 952 865 579

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Frontline Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 813 357

Open every day from 10am to 12 am. Complejo Benabola 13, Beach Side, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 929 055

Trocadero beach

caruso

la PaPPardella di esTePona

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Playa de la Carolina, Marbella. Tel: 610 704 144

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday 7pm until midnight. Avda. de la Constitución, corner C/ Andalucía, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 782 293

Open every day for lunch and dinner from 1pm to midnight. Puerto Deportivo de Estepona. Tel: 952 802 144

da bruno

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 807 354

VenTa garcía Open daily for lunch and dinner every day except Monday. Ctra. de Casares km 7, Casares.

Tel: 952 894 191

Open all day. Pasta Da Bruno: Avda. Ricardo

€60 plus

leonardo da Vinci

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. Urb. El Pilar, C.C. Benapilar, Estepona. Tel: 952 884 687

Open daily for dinner. Front line P. Banús.

Tel: 952 812 898

€40 – €60

Soriano, 27, Marbella. Tel: 952 860 348 – closed on Sunday. Da Bruno Cabopino: CN-340 Km. 194,7.

Tel: 952 831 918. Da Bruno a Casa: Marbella Mar, Local 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 521 – closed on Sunday. Da Bruno A San Pedro: Avda. del Mar, local 1E, San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 860 – closed on Monday. Da Bruno Sul Mare: Edif. Skol, Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 318/19. Da Bruno Mijas Costa: Ctra. de Mijas, km. 3.6, Mijas. Tel: 952 460 724

Open every day for lunch and dinner from 7pm onwards. Muelle Benabola, Casa 5A, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 813 464

TikiTano

€25 – €40

FrascaTi gold resTauranT

la PaPPardella sul mare

Open every night for dinner. Urb. Doña Lola, Local 21-22, Calahonda, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 934 667

lombardo’s Open daily from 7pm. Galerías Paniagua, Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 795 924

luna rossa Open daily for both lunch and dinner, closed on Sundays. Paseo Marítimo Benabola, local 12, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 810 543

meTro nunos Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Caleta Hotel. Catalan Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 76501

o mamma mia Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 909 990

Pizzeria Picasso Open daily from 12 noon. Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 669

PorToFino laguna Village Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 035

risToranTe regina

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Open every night for dinner and Sunday for lunch. Edif. La Ruleta, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 529

RistoRante RobeRto Open daily for dinner. Beach Club, Hotel Puente Romano, CN-340, km 177.5, Marbella.

Tel: 952 820 900

RosmaRino della Piazza Open every day 9 am C.C. Pino Golf, local 34, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 850 148

salotto Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. Avda. del Prado, Via 1, local 2, Aloha Golf, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 818 112

teRRaza dual Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Marbellamar s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 925 250

tRattoRia l’imPRonta

temPoRa Open nightly for dinner. C/ Tetuán 9, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 933

::: Oriental ::: asia Food

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Comercial, Pinares de Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 850 060

asiatico zen Open every day for lunch and dinner except Tuesday lunch. C/ Lirios s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 691

dRagón de oRo Open every day from 12.30-4pm and 7pm until midnight. Closed Monday lunchtime. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 141, Urb. Hacienda Guadalupe, Manilva.

Tel: 952 890 956

Open daily for lunch and dinner except on Tuesday. Avda. Salamanca, Edif. San Pedro del Mar, Local 14, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 785 943

golden wok

Villa tibeRio

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Com. Guadalmina Alta, Guadalmina 4, local 2, lower floor, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 896 508

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 799

::: Mediterranean ::: sala miRadoR

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Monte Paraíso Golf, Casa Club, Camino de Camojan s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 861 457

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Marbellamar, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 840

kaiden sushi

kama kuRa Open Tuesday to Saturday from 8-11pm. The San Roque Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 127, San Roque, Cádiz. Tel: 956 613 030

Golf, Don Carlos, Local 1, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 365 / 658 646 829

osaka Open every day 13:30-16:00 & 19:30-24:00. CN-340, km. 166 (Benavista). C.C. Costa del Sol. Tel: 952 885 751

RestauRante asiático bangkok

Open seven days a week for dinner. H. Puente Romano, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 177, Marbella. Tel: 952 777 893

thai galleRy Open seven days a week for dinner from 8pm. CN-340, km.175, Edif. Rimesa, Bajos, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 392

thai style

Open daily for lunch and dinner. P. de las Orquideas, C/ Iris, 11B, Edif. Excelsior no. 1, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 813 603

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Playas del Duque s/n. Edif. Gaviotas IV, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 813 675

sakuRa

thaPa thai

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda.

Jardines del Puerto, L.5, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 536

Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Urb. Puerto Deportivo 13, Edif. Poniente, Estepona. Tel: 951 318 445

saPPoRo

tse yang dimsum club

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Costa del Sol, upper level. CN-340, km. 166 (Estepona). Tel: 952 888 710

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sundays.

At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

sukho thai

wasabi

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday.

Centro Comercial Marbellamar.

Tel: 952 770 550

Open daily from 1.30 pm for lunch and dinner. C.C. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 577

sushi des aRtistes

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 907 304

Open every day for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking. Tel: 952 857 403

sushi katsuRa

meca

Open for lunch from Monday to Friday and for dinner from Monday to Saturday. C/Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 863 193

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pino

tai Pan

wok away wok buFFet Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. El Pilar, 22, Estepona. Tel: 952 887 092

wok wang Open every day for lunch and dinner. C/ Camilo José Cela, C.C. Plaza del Mar, planta 0, local 1,

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the guide Price guide ::::::: per head for a three-course meal with wine Marbella. Tel: 952 925 478

Yuan Open every night for dinner. Hotel Torrequebrada, Benalmádena Costa. Tel: 952 441 414.

::: SCANDINAVIAN ::: SkandieS

midnight. Paseo Marítimo s/n, La Atunara, La Linea de la Concepción, Campo de Gibraltar. Tel: 956 171 531

la torre Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle de Honor, Club de Mar, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 561

mariSquería la PeSquera

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm.

Closed Mondays. Avda. Antonio Belón, 26 (behind the lighthouse), Marbella. Tel: 952 776 323

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de la Victoria, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 170

the little mermaid

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 660 084

Open daily from 9.30am to 5pm except Sundays.

C.C. Centro Plaza, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 929 181

::: SEAFOOD :::

cervecería oStrería Santiago Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. del Marzo, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 078

el Barlovento Open from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 790 370

la fiShita Open Tuesday to Saturday from 1pm to 11pm and Sunday and Monday from 6pm to 11pm.

C/Las Violetas, Local 7, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 813 598

reStaurante la marina Open every day from 1-4.30pm and 8pm until

reStaurante el Bote

Santiago Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paseo Marítimo, 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 078

::: SPANISH ::: Bahía

Open every evening for dinner. At Hotel Don Carlos. Avda. Zurita s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

€60 plus

caSa fernando

Marbella. Tel. 600 003 144

Open from Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Avda. del Mediterráneo s/n, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 853 344

mi taBerna

el Portalón

tragaBucheS

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch 1-4pm and dinner from 8pm-midnight. Ctra de Cádiz, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

Open from Tuesday to Sunday for both lunch and dinner. C/ José Aparacio, 1, Ronda (pedestrian street between bullring and Parador). Tel: 952 190 291

hacienda Open from 1-4.30pm and 7.30 -11pm. Closed on Sunday afternoons and Mondays. Urb. La Alcaidesa, La Linea de la Concepción. Tel: 956 582 700

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

CN340, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

::: VEGETARIAN ::: loving hut

la máquina

Open daily from 10.30am to 11.30pm. Avda. Miguel Cano 11, Marbella. Tel: 951 245 889

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday.

At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

BARS

la meridiana del alaBardero Open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays. Camino de la Cruz, Marbella. Tel: 952 776 190

Beach cluB reStaurante grill

la taBerna del alaBardero

Open every day for lunch. Hotel Fuerte, Castillo de San Luis s/n and Hotel Fuerte Miramar Spa, Plaza José Luque Manzano s/n, Marbella. Tel: 902 343 410

Open everyday for lunch and dinner except Monday. San Pedro Playa, Urb. Castiglone. Tel: 952 785 138. Also at Ctra. de Ronda, km. 167, San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 265

caSa de la era

meSón el adoBe

Open every evening for dinner. Ctra. de Ojén, km 0.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 625

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays.

Avda. La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3,

anteS diSco Bar Relaxed atmosphere, free drink for the ladies every Friday and Saturday. Open 11pm ‘till dawn.

R. Soriano, 38. Tel: 952 867 868

aStral Brilliant place for cocktails, beachfront, relaxed, live music. Playa Levante, Pto. Banús. Tel: 610 015 815

BaBYlon Funky tunes, go-go dancers. Open Wednesday to Saturday, 10pm–3am. Second line, Pto. Banús. Tel: 625 856 225

BamBina Stylishly designed bar with funky lights and

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murals. Pasaje 5, Casco Antiguo, Marbella.

heaven Café

o’Brian´s

Blue Bar Cocktails, live entertainment and food. Local 1-2, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 905 138

House music with resident Djs. 2nd line Pto. Banús. Open Monday to Saturday, 9pm–4am. Tel: 952 908 529

Irish bar with live music on Tuesday and Thursday. Open everyday. Plaza de los Olivos, Marbella. Tel: 952 764 695

Clave latina

la haBana De heminGWay

o’GraDy’s

Disco-pub with live Latin music and shows. Edif.

La Terraza, Local 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 516

Cocktails and music lounge. Muelle Levante, Local 7, Ptp. Banús. Tel: 952 811 239

Disco pub open from 11pm-5pm. Muelle Ribera, Plaza Marina Banús. Puerto Banús.

Host DJs playing funky sounds late into the night - the place to see and be seen. Hotel Puente Romano, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

Colonial Café

linekers sport Bar

olD Joys

taCo loCo

Disco-pub with funky house music and cool atmosphere. Open from 6pm–3am. Marbella port.

Tel: 649 084 172

Well-established sports bar. Open 12 ‘til late.

Second line Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 464

Pub with relaxed terrace. Live music. Open from 7pm–4am. Muelle Ribera, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 814 283

One of the original bars with a great party atmosphere. Frontline, eastern side, Pto. Banús.

Tel: 952 811 438

CW By Dreamers

As the name suggests, a crazy pub! Open 11.30pm–4am with live music. Puerto Deportivo, Marbella.

olivia valére

terra Blues

Looks like a Moorish fort outside and a palace inside. Ctra. Istán, Km 0,8, Marbella. Tel: 952 828 861

Open 11pm–dawn. Younger, alternative following.

Plaza de la Comedia, Pto. Banús.

Live piano music. Exclusive. Open daily 6pm–1.30am. The Golden Mile, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

polo house

meGaBoWl

premiere CluB

Popular Irish bar with live sports, live music and food. Monday-Thursday from 5pm. Friday-Sunday from 11.30am. On the N340 San Pedro. Tel: 952 853 414

22 Lane bowling centre and sports bar for all ages. La Cañada, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 370

Great live music most nights. Open from 9pm.

Plza. de los Olivos, Marbella. Tel: 649 995 277

mumBai Café

ruBi Bar

CINEMAS & THEATRES

Cosmopolitan crowd. Open daily 11am–3am.

Muelle Ribera, 20, frontline Puerto. Banús. Tel: 952 818 695

Open every day. Both Spanish and international crowd. Puerto Deportivo, Marbella. Tel: 652 574 483

Plaza de la Libertad 2. Mijas.

Tel: 952 590 380

navy DisCo Bar

seven

Dancing, live music and resident DJs. Behind Old Joy´s Pub in Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 170

The club for the sophisticated over 30’s crowd.

26 tables available for booking. Open every night.

Avda. Julio Iglesias, Casa Y-Z, Puerto Banús. Tel: 696 566 036

Plaza de España, Recinto Ferial.

Tel: 952 379 521

Holds 1,400 clubbers. Plays a mix of house and garage, go-go girls. CN-340, Km 175, Pto. Banús.

Tel: 952 812 080

Delfi Caribbean beats and fresh seafood. Mar Playa Pinillos, CN-340, Km 158, Estepona. Tel: 952 796 960

elliot’s Close to Sotogrande Port and Santa Maria Polo Club with fine range of champagnes and cocktails.

el ranChón CuBano BeaCh Bar Live music. Open on Tuesday and Wednesday from 8pm onwards, and from Thursday to Sunday from 3pm onwards. Urb. Luna Mar, Marbella. Tel: 666 770 921

loCos

marBella CluB hotel Bar

Glam

neWs Café

Open Friday to Saturday from midnight onwards.

Edif. Gray d’ Albion, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 817 820

Very popular bar-café. Open daily from 9am–2am.

Muelle Ribera 12, Puerto.Banús. Tel: 952 812 131

Relaxed, colonial atmosphere hosted by James Hewitt on Marbella’s Golden Mile. Tel: 952 900 380

smile lounGe musiC Bar

Funky and elegant bar bringing a touch of Marbella glamour to Fuengirola. Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, 3, Fuengirola. Tel: 677 086 466

suite / suite Del mar

the hoGan stanD

auDitorio muniCipal miJas

auDitorio muniCipal torremolinos auDitorio parQue De la ConstituCión Marbella. Tel: 952 825 035

Centro Cultural el inGenio

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ThE guIDE

LA CALA gOLF rESOrT

Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 074

CErrADO DEL ÁguILA

CINESA LA CAÑADA

54 holes, Pars 71, 72 and 73.

Tel: 952 669 033. www.lacala.com

La Cañada. Marbella. Tel: 902 333 231

LA DAmA DE NOChE

CLub DEL SOL

CINES grAN mArbELLA

9 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 818 150

Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 810 077

LA DuquESA gOLF & COuNTrY CLub

Tennis /paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

CINESur

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 890 425

DYNAmIC TrAININg CENTrE

C.C. Miramar, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 198 605

LA quINTA gOLF

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 021

muLTICINES ALFIL

27 holes, Par 72.Tel: 952 762 390 www.laquintagolf.com

FITNESS CENTrE NEW STYLE

Garcia Morato, s/n. San Pedro.

Tel: 952 786 968

Avda. Camilo José Cela, s/n. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 800 056

Mijas Costa, Málaga. Tel: 951 773 523

LA rESErVA SOTOgrANDE

Amapolas, s/n Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 817 916

muLTICINES mEDITErrÁNEO

18 holes. Tel: 956 695 209

FuErTE gYm

Mijas. Tel: 952 663 738

Avda. El Fuerte, Marbella. Tel: 952 861 624

PALACIO DE LA PAZ

LA ZAgALETA gOLF & COuNTrY CLub

Recinto Ferial. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 589 349

18 holes. Members only. Tel: 952 695 209

TEATrO ALAmEDA

LAurO gOLF 18 hOLES

Trav. Huerta de los Cristales, Marbella.

Tel: 952 828 217

Calle Córdoba 9, Málaga. Tel: 952 213 412

Alhaurín de la Torre. Tel: 952 412 767

hAPPY DIVEr’S CLub

TEATrO CErVANTES Ramos Marín, 199, Málaga. Tel: 952 224 109

LOS ArquErOS gOLF & COuNTrY CLub

Atalaya Park Hotel, Marbella.

Tel: 609 571 920

TEATrO CIuDAD DE mArbELLA

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 784 600

hOTEL PuENTE rOmANO

Plaza Ramón Martínez, Marbella.

Tel: 952 903 159

LOS NArANjOS gOLF CLub

CN340, Km77,5. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 815 206

krAV mAgA SELF-DEFENCE CENTrE

TEATrO SALON VArIETES

mArbELLA CLub gOLF rESOrT

Emancipación 30. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 474 542

18 holes, Par 73. Tel: 952 113 239

At Hotel Pyr, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 655 689 455

mArbELLA gOLF & COuNTrY CLub

mANOLO SANTANA rACquETS CLub

VErACruZ CINES

18 holes. Tel: 952 830 500

Veracruz. Estepona. Tel: 952 800 056

mIjAS gOLF

Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella.

Tel: 952 778 580

YELmO CINEPLEX

36 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 476 843

mArbELLA guN & COuNTrY CLub

Plaza Mayor. Tel: 902 220 922

mIrAFLOrES gOLF

Monda. Tel: 952 112 161

GOLF GUIDE

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 931 960

mArbELLA SPOrT

mONTE mAYOr gOLF & COuNTrY CLub

Km 171.5. San Pedro Alcántara.

Tel: 952 788 315

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 791 0400. www.alcaidesa.com

18 holes. Tel: 952 113 088

muLTI SPOrT

PArADOr mÁLAgA DEL gOLF

ALhAuríN gOLF

18 holes. Tel: 952 381 255

Avda. Picasso 27. San Pedro.

Tel: 952 782 801

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 595 970. www.alhauringolf.com

rEAL CLub DE gOLF LAS brISAS

NEW CONCEPT TrAININg

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 810 875

ALmENArA gOLF

rEAL CLub DE gOLF SOTOgrANDE

Monte Paraíso Country Club, Camino de Camoján s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 843

27 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 582 027. www.sotogrande.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 785 014

02 CENTrO WELLNESS

SAN rOquE CLub

Plaza del Mar. Marbella. Tel: 952 900 420

ALOhA gOLF CLub

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 613 030

P-E SPOrTS CLub

18 holes. Tel: 952 907 085. www.clubdegolfaloha.com

SANTA CLArA gOLF

Urb. Parcelas del Golf, Aloha Gardens, N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 357

ATALAYA gOLF

SANTA mArIA gOLF & COuNTrY CLub

qI SPOrT

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 831 036

SATurNIA rEgNA

CAbOPINO gOLF

SOTOgrANDE CLub DE gOLF

18 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 850 282

18 holes. Tel: 956 785 012

Marbella Tel: 952 761 475, Elviria.

Tel: 952 834 835

CErrADO DEL ÁguILA

VALDErrAmA

SEVEN STArS SChOOL

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 951 703 355

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 791 200 www.valderrama.com

Tai Chi & yoga. Pasaje Estrecho, Estepona.

Tel: 952 923 055

ALCAIDESA LINkS

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 882 812. www.master-hotels.com

CLub DE gOLF LA CAÑADA 18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 794 100

EL PArAISO CLub DE gOLF 18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 883 835

ESTEPONA gOLF 18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 937 605. www.esteponagolf.com

18 holes. Tel: 952 850 111

GYMS & SPORTS CLUBS ALhAmAr gYm

gImNASIO ESTADIO

Urb. La Alzambra, Marbella. Tel: 952 907 090

SPOrTCLub rOuTE 66 Ctra. Mijas, 1.5km. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 461 648

SPOrTINg CLub ATALAYA PArk hOTEL

C.C. Alhamar, CN-340 km 197.

Tel: 952 934 684

CN340, Km 168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 888 212

18 holes, Par 72, Tel: 952 937 883. www.golfcortesin.es

ATENAS

Cristamar, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 905 082

Barquilla 1. Marbella. Tel: 952 776 240

VITALITY STuDIO

FLAmINgOS gOLF CLub

AZTEC COuNTrY CLub

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 902 362

18 holes, Par. Tel: 952 889 157. www.flamingos-golf.com

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa.

Tel: 952 934 477

gOLF ríO rEAL

CENTrO DEPOrTIVO EL FuErTE

HOTELS

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 756 733

Av. El Fuerte s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 861 624

CrOWNE PLAZA

gOLF TOrrEquEbrADA

CN 340, km 168, Estepona. Tel: 902 875 730

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 442 742

CENTrO DE YOgA Y SALuD INTEgrAL

guADALmINA gOLF

Ramón y Cajal 21. Marbella. Tel: 952 773 804

DON CArLOS rESOrT, LEISurE & SPA

36 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 883 375

CENTrO PLAZA gYm

CN340, Km192. Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

FINCA COrTESíN gOLF CLub

TICkET-TO-rIDE

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finca cortesin hotel, golf & spa

Avda. del Carmen 99, Playa de Guadalbón, Estepona. Tel: 952 790 040

Museo cortijo Miraflores

hM gran hotel costa del sol

Museo de bella artes

La Cala de Mijas, Mijas Costa.

Tel: 952 587 710

C/ San Agustin 8. Málaga.

Tel: 952 218 382

hotel el fuerte

Museo del grabado Hospital Bazán. Marbella. Tel: 952 825 035

hotel los Monteros

Avda. El Fuerte, s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 861 500. Spa & Beauty Miramar. Tel: 952 920 000

CN 340, km 187, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 700

hotel fuerte MiraMar spa

hotel Meliá la Quinta

Pl. José Luque Manzano. Marbella.

Tel: 952 768 400.

Spa & Beauty Miramar. Tel: 952 768 410

Museo ralli

Urb. La Quinta Golf, Marbella. Tel: 952 762 000

hotel puente roMano

hotel Meliá Marbella

Carrera 39. Ojén. Tel: 952 881 453

CN340, Km179. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

CN340, Km 175. Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 810 500

hotel torreQuebrada

hotel playa bonita

MuseuM of Miniatures carroMato de Max

Avda. del Sol s/n, Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 446 000

CN340, Km 217. Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 442 840

El Compas. Mijas. Tel: 952 489 500

hotel triton

hotel princess playa

Avda. Antonio Machado, 29. Benalmádena Costa. Tel: 952 443 240

Paseo Marítimo. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 944

Plaza de la Merced 15. Málaga.

Tel: 952 060 215

nh alanda hotel & spa

picasso MuseuM Málaga

KeMpinsKi hotel bahía estepona

CN340, Km176,6. Marbella. Tel: 952 899 600

Palacio de Buenavista, C/ San Agustín 8.

Málaga. Tel: 952 127 611

CN340, Km159. Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

C/ Conde Rudi, s/n. CN340, Km 178. Marbella.

Tel: 952 763 200

roMan public baths

la cala resort La Cala de Mijas Tel: 952 669 000

parador de ronda

Marbella club hotel

Plaza de España, s/n. Ronda. Tel: 952 877 500

POST OFFICES

Crtra. Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

gran hotel gvadalpín puerto banús Arroyo El Rodeo, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella.

Tel: 952 899 700

gran Meliá don pepe José Meliá s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 770 300

CN340, Km 180. Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

hotel villa padierna

nh Marbella

Marbella. Tel: 952 902 714

Museo de la villa Plaza de la Libertad 2. Mijas.

Tel: 952 590 380 Urb. Coral Beach. Marbella. Tel: 952 857 923

MuseuM of Málaga Wines

pablo ruiz picasso foundation

Gualalmina Baja. Tel: 952 781 360

calahonda

pierre & vacances caledonia golf resort

C.C. El Zoco. Tel: 952 932 175

CN340, km 165, Cancelada exit. Estepona.

Tel: 952 889 999

Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

playabella spa gran hotel

Tel: 952 467 843

CN340, km 190.5, Marbella. Tel: 951 053 970

Urb. Costalita s/n, Estepona.

Tel: 959 528 253

estepona

alanda carib playa

sentidos hotel

fuengirola

CN340, Km 194. Tel: 952 902 537

Pza. los Chinorros. Tel: 952 474 384

alanda club Marbella

CN340, Km185, Urb. Golf Rio Real s/n.

Marbella. Tel: 952 765 732

CN340 Km 192. Marbella. Tel: 952 902 537

sunset beach club

Jac. Benavente, 14. Tel: 952 772 898

alMenara golf hotel & spa

Avda. del Sol, 5. Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 579 400

nueva andalucía

taMisa golf hotel

san pedro Pizarro, 41. Tel: 952 780 393

C/ Pilar 3. Benahavís. Tel: 952 856 026

Camino Viejo de Coín. Km 3.3. Mijas Golf.

Tel: 952 585 988

atalaya parK hotel

trh el paraíso

CN340, Km 168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 889 000

CN340, km 167, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 000

CN340, Km 166, Exit Cancelada. Benahavís.

Tel: 952 889 150

vincci selección estrella del Mar

Avda. Almenara s/n. Sotogrande.

Tel: 956 582 000

aManhavís hotel & restaurant

barceló Marbella C/ de Granadillas, s/n. Urb. Guadalmina Alta, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 099

hotel diana parK

el corte inglés fuengirola C/ Málaga 82–84. Tel: 952 800 537

Marbella C/ Jazmines. Tel: 952 810 887

SChOOlS

aloha college Ages 3-18. Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 814 133

CN 340, km 168.5, Estepona.

Tel: 952 887 659

angela’s school

beatriz palace & spa CN340, Km207. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 922 000

hotel pyr Marbella

british school of Marbella

benabola apart hotel Benabola. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 000

Avda. Rotary International, s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 353

Ages 18 months-8. Marbella.

Tel: 952 779 264

blue bay banús hotel

nh san pedro

CN340, Km173. N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 811 517

C/ Jerez 1, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 853 040

calahonda international college

coral beach

Ages 6-14. Marbella. Tel: 952 823 042

Ages 3-18. Tel: 952 930 080

calpe school

el oceano beach hotel

sisu boutiQue hotel puerto banús

Miraflores Playa, Torrenueva, Marbella.

Tel: 952 587 550

CN 340, km 173, Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 906 105

childrens place bilingual nursery

golf hotel guadalMina

MUSEUMS

Atalaya, Estepona. Tel: 952 928 444

basilica vega del Mar

Ages 3-18. Ricmar. Tel: 952 839 645

Huerta de Rufino, Benahavís.

Tel: 902 504 862

San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 781 360

colegio aleMán

bonsai MuseuM

Ages 3-18. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 417

h10 andalucía plaza

Parque Arroyo de la Represa. Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 926

colegio las chapas

Golden Mile. Marbella. Tel: 952 824 500

Guadalmina Baja. Marbella. Tel: 952 882 211

gran hotel benahavis

CN340 Km 174. Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 812 000

h10 estepona palace

Ages 2 1/2–11. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 029

colegio alborán

bull-fighting MuseuM

Ages 5–18, girls school. Elviria.

Tel: 952 831 616

Plaza de Toros. Estepona.

colegio san josé guadalMina

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the guiDe

tuesDay churriana

Bel air tennis anD paDDel cluB

Ages 6 months-5 years. San Pedro.

Tel: 952 799 563

9am-1pm

Urb. Bel-Air, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 221

Fuengirola

cluB Del sol

ecos college Ages 1–18. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 027

Recinto Ferial (close to the CN340, on the same side as the bullring), 9am-2:30pm

Tennis/paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

english international college

MonDa

cluB De tenis Don carlos

Ages 3–18. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 058/9

C/ Los Huertos, 8am-2:30pm

Fiona Jones school oF Dance

nerJa

Hotel Don Carlos, Avda. Zurita, CN340, km 192. Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

Ages 9–14. Manolo Santana Racquets Club.

Fuengirola. Tel: 610 764 439

C/ Chaparil, 9am-1pm

cluB internacional De tennis

weDnesDay alhaurín De la torre

Ctra. Cádiz, km 173. Marbella.

Tel: 952 813 341

Ages 3-12. Marbella. Tel: 952 771 396

Avda. del Limón, 9am-2pm

cluB MaDroñal

iii language schools

Benahavís

Benahavís. Tel: 617 647 223

San Pedro. Tel: 952 778 492 Marbella. Tel: 952 822 191 Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 908 558 Estepona. Tel: 952 794 059

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

cluB nueva alcántara

BenalMáDena costa

San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

(Second hand items) Recinto Ferial, 10am-2pm

hoFsaess tennis acaDeMy

inlingua language school

calahonDa

Monte Elviria (next to German School).

Tel: 952 835 812

All ages. Marbella. T: 952 774 942

Calypso, 9am-2pm

lew hoaDs tennis cluB

the international school oF estepona

estepona Avda. Juan Carlos II, 9am-2:30 pm

Ctra. de Mijas, Km 3,5. Mijas.

Tel: 952 474 858

Ages 2-12. Estepona. Tel: 952 884 789

istán

Manolo santana racquets cluB

lauDe san peDro international college

At the entrance to the town, 9am-2pm

la cala

Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella.

Tel: 952 778 580

Tel: 952 883 858 Estepona. Tel: 952 800 148

Dolphin nursery

hiJas De María auxiliaDora

Ages 2–18. San Pedro.

Tel: 952 799 900

MayFair acaDeMy Ages 4-18. Atalaya Park, Estepona.

Tel: 952 784 923

Monseñor roDrigo Bocanegra Ages 3-16. Marbella. Tel: 952 770 077

perForMing arts acaDeMy Ages 3-18. Marbella. Tel: 952 906 865

peter pan school Ages 0-3. Bilingual nursery. San Pedro. Tel: 952 782 051 Benalmádena. Tel: 952 562 103

saint george’s school Ages 2-8. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 606

sotogranDe international school Ages 2–18. Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 902

st. Javier’s international school Ages 1-7. Marbella. Tel: 952 823 457

stagecoach theatre arts school Ages 4-16. Tel: 952 900 453

sunny view school Ages 2–18. Torremolinos. Tel: 952 383 164

swans international school el capricho Ages 3–10. Marbella. Tel: 952 773 248

swans international school sierra Blanca

Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

MarBella playa tenis

thursDay alhaurín el granDe By the Guardia

CN340, km 189, Marbella. Tel: 657 619 630

Civil Offfices, City Centre, 9am-1pm Málaga Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre. 9am-1pm san peDro By the sports pavilion, in the Divina Pastora district, 9am-2pm torre Del Mar Avda. Europa, 9am-1pm torreMolinos El Calvario, near Town Hall, 9am-1pm vélez Málaga Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

Urb. Miraflores, Km 199. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 932 006

FriDay BenalMáDena In the area between Tivoli World and the Plaza San Pedro, 9am-1pm calahonDa Calypso, 9am-2pm las chapas La Víbora, 9am-2pm rincón De la victoria Málaga.

Plaza de la Iglesia, 9am-1pm

saturDay coín C/ Urbano Pineda, 9am-1pm la cala Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm Maro Close to the Nerja Caves, 9am-1pm MiJas costa Las Lagunas, 9am-2pm nueva anDalucía Next to the bullring.

Park near CN340 and walk upwards, 9am-1pm

Ages 11–18. Marbella. Tel: 952 902 755

sunDay Benahavís

tlc tutorial college

Arts & Crafts. La Ermita Park, from 10pm

Ages 13-18. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 933 249

Puerto Deportivo, 9am-1pm

wenDy kinDergarten

Fuengirola

Ages 4 months - 5 years. Marbella.

Tel: 952 772 910

Recinto Ferial, 9am-2:30pm

Street MarketS

Next to Rosaleda football stadium, 9am-2pm

estepona

Málaga

MonDay Benahavís

sotogranDe

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

teNNIS CLUBS

MarBella Fairground (Avda. de Juan Alameda), 9am-2:30pm

Tel: 952 934 477

At the Marina, 9am-1pm

aztec country cluB

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa.

MiraFlores tennis cluB puente roMano tennis cluB Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

royal tennis cluB MarBella El Rosario, Marbella. Tel: 952 837 651

toUrISt offICeS Benahavís Tel: 952 855 500 Benalmádena Tel: 952 442 494 Estepona Tel: 952 802 002 Fuengirola Tel: 952 467 625 Gibraltar Tourist Board Tel: 956 774 950 Marbella Tel: 952 822 818 Málaga Tel: 952 213 445 / 952 216 061 Mijas Tel: 952 485 900 Ronda Tel: 952 871 272 San Pedro Tel: 952 785 252 Tarifa Tel: 956 680 993 Torremolinos Tel: 952 381 578

traIN

Customer assistance T: 952 128 267 General Info T: 902 240 202 Reservations T: 902 240 202 Ave T: 952 128 079

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pets THE GUIDE

How to Stop the Cat Obesity Epidemic According to a recent study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 53 per cent of adult dogs and 55 per cent of adult cats are overweight or obese. For dogs, the problem is often easily solveable, since we can encourage them to lose unwanted kilos by walking them or engaging them in fun activities and games. For cats, the problem needs to be tackled at the dietary level. The number one precaution to take is to avoid dry foods. Cats are uniquely adapted to obtain their energy from protein and fat; dry food is normally rich in grains and carbohydrates,

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS which cats do not assimilate well and should therefore be avoided.

Do not starve your cat or cut its calorie intake drastically; skipping meals can lead to serious liver disease. Slowly wean them off dry food and encourage them to follow a raw food or high-protein cannedfood diet. Do not give them access to food 24/7. Rather, offer two to three meals comprising a small amount of dry food for a few days.

Then, offer them only raw or canned food at the previously set meal times.

If your cat refuses to eat for 18 hours straight, sprinkle a bit of dry food over the wet food. Use less and less of the kibble until your cat grows accustomed to its new diet.

Make sure to discuss any dietary changes first with your vet.

Give Your Pets a BEAUTIFUL SMILE

One of the most serious conditions affecting dogs and cats is tooth decay, a condition that can cause everything from heart and liver problems to unbearable bad breath. Most people don’t actually look into the mouths of their pets and assume that bad breath is normal but it is actually a sign of a problem that should be attended to by your vet. Did you know that tooth abscesses can take up to two years off your pet’s life, or that eight out of 10 dogs and cats have tooth and gum problems?

The good news it that the problem is preventable; most vets stock products that can make cleaning a much easier task (including brushes with bigger bristles, which enable you to brush the cheek surface and gum more easily). Vets can also prescribe a specific enzyme that helps break down bacteria settling on teeth and gums. If your dog or cat has suspect breath, nothing beats a thorough cleaning by your vet; there is no specific time interval for dental check-ups. Some (unlucky) dogs and cats may need cleaning every year while others may never need one at all. Hopeful waiting is not the solution here; act now and enjoy your pet for a lot longer!

Human Meds are Toxic to Pets

If by any chance your pet has ingested human medication, don’t waste time surfing the Internet or passively waiting to see if they withstand the experience. This should be classed as an emergency, and your pet should be taken straight to the vet. Just one acetaminophen can kill a cat, while amphetamines used to treat conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy, can cause seizures in both dogs and cats. Ibuprofen, meanwhile can cause stomach ulcers or kidney failure. Make sure your home is pet friendly, keeping medication, electric wires, etc., far away from your pets. Dogs and cats are curious by nature and can end up ingesting toxic substances quicker than you think.

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THE GUIDE what’s on EVENTS CONTINUED FROM MARCH Until April 7 ART – MARBELLA

Contemporary artist, Ralla Zacher will be presenting her latest collection of works, which focuses on celebrities, at the Kasser Rassu Gallery-Showroom. www.kasserrassu.com

Until April 28 ART – MÁLAGA

CAC Málaga presents an exhibition by Rosa Brun, comprising a selection of works from 2006 until the present. The artist, who hails from Madrid, sees her modern paintings as “a dialogue between space and architecture”. www.cacmalaga.org

Until April 30 PHOTOGRAPHY – FUENGIROLA

Jesús Ponce exhibits his beautiful, minimalist photographs from the collection entitled Coolest Hotel, at the THB Reserva del Higuerón Hotel in Fuengirola. Tel: 951 505 101.

Until May 13 ART – LA CALA DE MIJAS

NEW AND REGULAR EVENTS Monthly on different days AMERICAN CLUB – MARBELLA

The American Club Costa del Sol Chapter meets monthly for excursions, sports and social events. Tel: 952 772 789. www.americanclubcostadelsol.com

AMIGOS DE LA CULTURA – COSTA DEL SOL

Meets at different times and places for lunches, lectures, tickets to concerts, ballet, theatre, opera, etc. Further information, Tel: 669 445 809. smartkidsmarbella@gmail.com

Every Monday SALSA CLASSES – MARBELLA

Learn how to shake your hips like a true Latino at El Campanario, under the guiding hand of professional dancer, Rafa. At 7:30pm. Prior booking is necessary. Tel: 952 904 233. www.elcampanariogolf.com

Every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday LANGUAGE WORKSHOPS – MIJAS PUEBLO

Egnlish artists, Elaine Carlton, Don Widdall and Richard Wood, will be joined by Sinikka Ahokas-Gröhn from Finland for their Spring exhibition, which will be on show every day from 1pm to 10pm at Jinete restaurant.

Tel: 952 119 170.

Spanish/English and English/Spanish conversation with fellow native speakers, 10:30am to 12pm and 6:30pm to 8pm.

Mondays in La Cala, Tuesdays in Mijas Village and Thursdays in Las Lagunas. At the Pensioner’s Day Centres. Further information on meeting points, Tel: 952 589 010. www.mijas.es

Until May 15 ART – MARBELLA

Every Monday and Wednesday YOGA – MARBELLA

The Polígono Gallery presents The Voice of the Body – an exhibition by photographer Isabel Muñoz, who has travelled the world capturing photographs of different tribes, ethnic groups, clans, races and cultures. Tel: 952 898 998. www.poligonogallery.com

Until June 9 ART – MÁLAGA

Lori Sjollema teaches Gentle Hatha Flow yoga on Mondays at 10:30am and Intermediate Vinyasa Flow on Wednesdays at 10:30am at the Manolo Santana Racquets Club.

Tel: 639 845 285.

The Museo Picasso de Málaga presents 55 works from Picasso’s earliest period, as well as a host of important documents that enable us to glean information on Picasso’s youth and earliest influences. www.mpicassom.org

Until June 15 SPANISH – FUENGIROLA

Every first Tuesday of the month INTERNET – MARBELLA

Until June 22 ART – MARBELLA

To commemorate its 20th anniversary, the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo presents an exhibition of winning and selected works from the 20th National Etching Awards, as well as prize-winning works from previous years. Tel: 952 765 741. www.mges.es

Every Second Tuesday of the Month JAZZ – ESTEPONA The Coast’s Jazz Appreciation Society meets at Benavista Country Club at 8pm. Classic videos followed by a live jazz performance then dinner. To book, Tel: 952 888 106.

Further information from Brian Parker, Tel: 669 504 942.

Every Third Tuesday of the Month FLORAL ART CLUB – ESTEPONA

Meets 3-5pm monthly with NAFAS demonstrators at El Campanario Golf & Country Club. Further information from Marilyn Pemberton, Tel: 952 928 197.

Every first Wednesday of the month CULTURE AND COCKTAIL – MARBELLA The Association of Art and Culture Marbella holds a monthly cocktail at Magna Café,

Every Wednesday and Friday MARTIAL ARTS – MARBELLA

Taekwondo expert Justin Menchen, who studied and received First Dan in Los Angeles (from Master Keith Jones) teaches Taekwondo to children and adults, from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at MGM gym. Further information, Tel: 666 756 692. www.marbellataekwondo.com

Every Thursday NETWORKING – MARBELLA

The Marbella Business Group holds its weekly breakfast meeting, which features presentations, discussions and introductions of new members. At 8am at the Hotel Senator in Marbella. To become a member, www.marbellabusinessgroup.com

JAZZ – MARBELLA

Enjoy magnificent jazz music by Agustín Carrillo, Oliver Lepinat and Markus Schneider at Trocadero Arena restaurant from 10pm onwards. Tel: 952 865 579. www.trocaderoarena.com

Until June 30 BALLROOM DANCING – FUENGIROLA

The Casa de la Cultura de Fuengirola and the Tenencia de Alcaldía in Los Boliches will be holding ballroom dancing classes on various days (morning and afternoon classes available). For further information, Tel: 952 589 349. www.fuengirola.es

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE – MARBELLA

Integral Psychotherapist Gabriella Kortsch helps you with everything from relationship breakdowns to depression, poor communication with loved ones or financial stress, at her weekly group meetings, which go from 7:30pm to 9pm. For information on locations, info@advancedpersonaltherapy.com

The Fuengirola Town Hall will be holding Spanish classes for foreigners on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings.

Tel: 952 589 349. www.fuengirola.es

partner or reserve a space. Just come along and join the fun! Tickets cost €10 per person.

For precise times, www.jivespain.com

Café Ideas is an informative event that takes place from 9:15am to 11am at the Hotel Meliá Banús, aimed at entrepreneurs who would like to learn more about how the Internet and online networking can grow their business.

Entrance costs €15. To reserve your spot, Tel: 952 902 961. info@studioideas.es

Every Tuesday JIVE – ESTEPONA

Learn to dance and feel confident on the dance floor at the three-hour jive dance sessions led by Colin and his team from Jive Spain at TikiTano restaurant. People of all ages attend every week and you don’t have to bring a

Magna Marbella Golf, from 8pm-10pm. Tel: 627 833 262. www.artandculturemarbella.com

Every Wednesday TOASTMASTERS CLUB – MARBELLA Weekly meetings of this public speaking organisation, 7:30pm at Aloha Gardens, Nueva Andalucía. Further information, www.toastmastersmarbella.com

SALSA – MARBELLA

If you’re feeling the Latino vibe, brush up on your salsa moves at Buddha Bar Marbella’s special salsa nights (featuring the Nicolás Valiente Dance Academy), which take place every Wednesday at 10:30pm.

Tel: 655 480 748.

Every Wednesday and Thursday CINE CLUB – MARBELLA

Cine Club Buñuel presents films in their original language at the Marbella Instituto Río Verde at 8pm and 10:15pm. Tel: 952 774 638.

Every first Friday of the Month CINE CLUB – ESTEPONA

Top films shown weekly in Spanish or original soundtrack at Padre Manuel Cultural Centre, 9pm. Tel: 952 802 002. www.estepona.es

MODS & ROCKERS – MARBELLA

Enjoy a fun evening filled with mod (garage and soul) and rockabilly (rhythm and blues) at Pub Maverick in Marbella’s Old Town. Tel: 951 506 227. info@activesoundproductions.com

Every last Friday of the Month COFFEE MORNING – ESTEPONA

ADANA animal rescue charity coffee morning at Plaza Manilva (outside Longman’s Bookshop) 11am – 2pm. Kennels open 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday and 10am – 2pm Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Further information, Tel: 952 797 405/ 606 274 206. www.adana-estepona.com

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BUSINESS LUNCH – MARBELLA

Marbella Business Institute invitation-only lunch club for local and visiting Business people, active and retired. To apply, see www.marbellabusinst.com

Every Saturday MARKETS – PUERTO BANÚS

Head for the Puerto Banús bullring every Saturday for a fun street market featuring everything from clothing right through to music, accessories and home ware. Starts at 9am and ends at 2pm. www.marbella.es

ART – MARBELLA

Enjoy a beautiful art exhibition and art sale from 6pm to 11:30pm at Plaza de la Encarnación, Marbella. The event, organised by the COART Association in conjunction with the Marbella Town Hall, brings local artists and art buyers together in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. For further information, asociacioncoart@gmail.com

ORGANIC FRUIT AND VEG MARKET – MARBELLA If organic fruit and veg are your thing, don’t miss out on this hip market. At the Paseo de la Alameda from 10am to 2pm every Saturday. www.marbella.es

YANELA BROOKS – ESTEPONA

Marbella’s Diva of Disco and Soul, Yanela Brooks, performs at La Cabaña del Mar Beach Club at the Hotel Kempinski Bahía Estpona.

Enjoy a three-course dinner while Yanela belts out your favourite pop and R ‘n‘ B hits. From 8pm to 1am. www.kempinski.com

SINTILLATE – MARBELLA

Enjoy a VIP Terrace Party with Sintillate, featuring live DJ music, Champagne and a chic ambience at Tibv in Puerto Banús. To book a table, www.sintillate.eventbrite.co.uk

Every second Saturday of the month ECOLOGICAL MARKET – ELVIRIA The Guadalhorce Ecological Association hold an organic fruit and vegetable market in front of the Supersol in Elviria. www.guadalhorceecologico.es

Every First Sunday of the month OPEN DAY – MIJAS

PAD animal shelter, Cerros del Águila, welcomes visitors from 12pm-3pm. Further information, Tel: 952 486 084. www.padcatsanddogs.org

Wednesday April 3, Friday April 5, Thursday April 25 WEST END MUSICALS – PUERTO BANÚS, RIVIERA DEL SOL, ESTEPONA

Stephen Lloyd-Morgan, Steve Shappelle, Adele Lee Peters and Gemma Lloyd will be singing songs from your favourite musicals, with a special tribute to Les Misérables, on April 3 at La Sala in Puerto Banús (Tel: 952 814 145), on April 5 at La Plaza Restaurant in Riviera del Sol (Tel: 952 935 073) and on April 25 at TikiTano in Estepona (Tel: 952 798 449).

Friday April 5 CHARITY GALA – FUENGIROLA

Monday April 29 until September 29 DENNIS HOPPER – MÁLAGA

Soroptimist International Club Costa del Sol will be holding a lively fundraising dinner at Restaurante Valparaíso in Fuengirola at 7pm. All funds raised will go to AFESOL, an association for persons suffering from mental illness and their families. Tel: 654 351 161/ 616 290 703.

Actor, Director and Photographer, Dennis Hopper, presents an exciting narrative of black and white shots that captures the cultural revolution which took place in the US in the 1960s. At the Museo Picasso de Málaga. www.mpicassom.org

Friday April 5 to Saturday April 6 PADDLE, TENNIS TOURNAMENT – MARBELLA

Luxury Homes Design Marbella and the Hotel Puente Romano present their first joint Tennis/ Paddle Tournament, to be held at the Puente Romano Tennis Club. To register and receive a complete schedule, Tel: 952 826 103.

TANGO – NERJA AND MIJAS

Producciones Lastra present two passionfilled nights of tango on April 5 at the Centro Cultural Villa de Nerja (Tel: 952 523 863) and on April 6 at the Teatro Las Lagunas de Mijas (Tel: 952 472 596). The evening will include dance and live music.

Saturday April 6 MARKETS – PUERTO MARINA, BENALMÁDENA

The gorgeous Puerto Marina port in Benalmádena will host a fun market day, to be held from 11am to 4pm. Featuring fashion, accessories, crafts, décor and gourmet stands.

RICKY LAVAZZA – FUENGIROLA

Talented crooner Ricky Lavazza will be singing classic tunes by Michael Bublé, Elvis, Tom Jones, Robbie Williams and more at the Salon Varietes Theatre at 8pm. Tel: 952 474 542.

Saturday April 6 to Sunday April 21 POKER FESTIVAL – MARBELLA

The Casino Marbella hosts the biggest poker festival in Europe: the MSI Marbella Poker Festival, which includes CIRSA Poker Tour and the GSOP Live Grand Series of Poker matches. www.casinomarbella.com

Sunday April 7 TRIPLE A OPEN DAY – MARBELLA

Dog and Cat shelter, Triple A will be holding a fun Open Day at its installations, featuring international cuisine, sweets, live music and a market. For further information, Tel: 952 771 586. www.triplamarbella.org

Monday April 8 50+ YOGA – MARBELLA

It’s never too late to start yoga! If you are aged 50 or above, why not visit the Centro de Quiromasaje y Bienestar and enjoy a soulsoothing class from 2:30pm to 3:30pm?

Tel: 648 983 516.

Thursday April 11 MARBELLA CLUB SPRING GAMES – MARBELLA

The Marbella Club Spring Games is a wholeday event comprising six different sports, starting and finishing at the Marbella Club

Hotel. Featured sports are alpine skiing, Ascari racing, clay pigeon shooting, golf, water skiing and tennis. For further information, www.springgames.es

Friday April 12 to Tuesday April 16 THEATRE – FUENGIROLA

The Salon Varietes Theatre presents Alfred Hitchcock’s grippingly intense thriller, Dial M for Murder. Nightly at 8pm except for Sunday (7pm). Tel: 952 474 542.

Tuesday April 16 TEA AND FASHION SHOW – ESTEPONA The Estepona Floral Art Club will be holding an afternoon tea and fashion show at TikiTano Restaurant, featuring clothing from La Boutique, of La Duquesa. The glamorous afternoon will commence at 3.30pm and will include a glass of Cava on arrival, traditional scones, a selection of sandwiches and home baked cakes as well as tea and coffee. Prior booking is necessary. Tel: 607 468 653.

Wednesday April 17 CLASSICAL MUSIC – MÁLAGA

Soprano, Amaia Azcona and pianist Manuel López perform works by G. Fauré, Schubert, Granados, Obradors and more. At 9pm at the Teatro Echegaray. www.teatroechegaray.com

Friday April 19 JOHNNY G – FUENGIROLA

Talented singer, Johnny G, sings favourite hits

by Buddy Holly, The Platters, Neil Sedaka, Cliff Richard, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers,

Elvis, Paul Anka, Bobby Vee and Bill Haley at the Salon Varietes Theatre at 8pm.

Friday April 19 to Sunday April 21 DRESSAGE – ESTEPONA

The Escuela de Arte Ecuestre Costa del Sol will be holding a three-day dressage championship. For a full programme of events, Tel: 952 808 777. www.escuela-ecuestre.com

Friday April 19 and Wednesday April 24 ENCORE! TENORS – ESTEPONA AND PUERTO BANÚS

Stephen Lloyd-Morgan, Steve Shappelle and Paul Anthony will sing favourite The Three Tenors and Il Divo hits on April 19 at TikiTano in Estepona (Tel: 952 798 4499) and on April 24 at La Sala in Puerto Banús (Tel: 952 814 145).

Wednesday April 24 NLP– MARBELLA

Enjoy a four-hour workshop entitled The Power of Charisma, which teaches neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) techniques. At Mosaic Restaurant from 5pm to 9pm. Tel: 616 750 804.

Thursday April 25 to Friday April 26 TECHNOLOGY CONGRESS – MARBELLA

The Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella will be hosting the 5th annual Technology Fair, which will focus on technological advances in various areas including tourism and commerce. For precise times, www.marbellacongresos.com

Friday April 5 to Saturday April 6 MUSIC – MÁLAGA

Talented violinist Jesús Reina will be playing music

by Mendelssohn, Elgar and W. Walton at the Teatro Cervantes de Málaga at 8:30pm on Friday and at 8pm on Saturday. www.teatrocervantes.com

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THE GUIDE stars

Russell Grant’s Monthly Horoscopes April 2013

www.russellgrant.com

ARIES March 21st - April 20th

Resist the urge to tear a strip off someone who thinks they are the ‘Be all and end all’ of the office, workplace or community, because things could backfire badly leaving you with egg on your face. You’re better off channelling all that restless energy into a creative painting, musical or style project that allows you to show your true flare and individuality.

There’s every chance you could look forward to an influx of income in the middle of April, but it’s your own personal appearance and the way you portray and project yourself that will figure most highly in all your considerations as April prepares to make way for May because that’s when every move or effort you make to improve your position or update your image will be crowned with success.

One final note of warning, watch your spending at the end of the month. It could land you in trouble.

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TAURUS [21 APR - 21 MAY]

You’ll have to hide your light under a bushel in the opening days of April, thanks to an insecure authority figure. Never fear; you’ll soon have an opportunity to capitalise on your expertise. For the moment you need to go along with the program, no matter how foolish it is.

Inspiration will strike around the 10th, when you’re at the gym or taking a nature walk. Physical activity has a way of fuelling your creative side. Your good looks will turn heads in the middle of the month. Go ahead and splurge on clothing, salon treatments, jewellery, toiletries, or anything else that emphasises your best features. A close relationship with a business or romantic partner will experience some bumps and bruises near the 25th.

The two of you will decide whether to make up or break up at this fateful time. Whatever the decision, you’ll feel a tremendous surge of relief.

GEMINI [22 MAY - 21 JUN]

Working with a team will be very productive at the start of April. A few power struggles will erupt in the early stages, but those will die down once you develop trust for one another. A friend will urge you to take a creative risk on or around the 10th; it would be wise to take their advice. By venturing into unknown territory, you’ll be able to develop a product or service that makes a huge profit. You’ve always had a knack for generating brilliant ideas. It’s about time you benefited from this ingenuity. You’ll be able to enjoy more private time over the coming weeks. Take this opportunity to catch up on your reading, enjoy some nature walks, and work on your favourite hobbies. A work assignment will come to an abrupt end in the final days of April, and you’ll wonder why. The truth is that a hidden enemy has made trouble for you. Never fear; a much better assignment is on the horizon, provided you stay positive.

CANCER [22 JUN - 23 JULY]

All eyes will be trained on you in early April. Be sure to look your best, even if you’re just running to the store. You never know whom you’ll meet while squeezing tomatoes at the grocery. A career opportunity will arrive on or around the 10th; this is your big chance to break into an impressive industry. This would also be a good time to take the helm of a political organisation; people admire your ability to get things done. No matter which endeavour you pursue, it will thrust you into the spotlight.

Fortunately, you’ll make a favourable impression and will be able to use this publicity to further your ambitions.

A passionate argument between you and a romantic or business partner will erupt in the second half of April. Try to voice your dissent without being disrespectful. The remaining days of April prompt you to make up or break up with your lover. Either way, you will be glad to get out of the rut that has held you fast for so long.

LEO [24 JULY - 23 AUG]

Travel beckons in the opening days of April.

This would be an ideal time to schedule an overseas trip to a country that’s off the beaten path. You love exploring places that very few people have visited before. It’s even possible you’ll write the definitive guidebook to your destination. Getting paid to stay in hotels, enjoy room service, and enjoy the local hotspots is your idea of heaven. Head home midApril, when career opportunities will abound. A good job related to gourmet food, luxury goods, or cosmetics is yours for the asking. You may even be given a clothing allowance, or at least a sizable discount that allows you to dress fashionably. Domestic matters become strained

as April turns into May. You will have to cut ties with a relative or roommate whose antics are wreaking havoc with your sanity. Lean on a compassionate friend when guilt threatens your resolve. You need to stand firm with this troublemaker.

VIRGO [24 AUG - 23 SEP]

Finance and romance do not mix in the opening days of April. Don’t let a lover pressure you into buying something you can’t afford. If you’re single, it may be because you’ve been selling yourself short. Make more time for hobbies that boost your confidence. Join a book club, writing group, or debate society. You’ve been blessed with a brilliant intellect, and need to exercise it like a muscle. Money from an inheritance, insurance refund, or legal settlement will finally arrive during April. You’ve fought hard for this sum, and should put it toward your future security. Put the money in a savings or retirement account, where it will protect you from economic insecurity. A hurtful comment from a lover, neighbour, or relative threatens to derail your progress at the end of April. Decide whether they are jealous of your achievements. After all, you are a great deal more intelligent and attractive than that miserable wretch.

LIBRA [24 SEPT - 23 OCT]

Don’t give your family too much influence over your personal life in early April. Your first loyalty should be to your romantic partner. If you’re single, it may be because you let your relatives interfere with your personal life.

Adopt a more independent stance now, while there are several admirers beating a path to your door. An engagement, wedding, or commitment ceremony will take place on or around the 10th, giving you hope for the future. It’s hard to be pessimistic in the face of such powerful love. April warns against frivolous purchases.

Resist the urge to go on a shopping spree, or it will take years to repay your debts. A source of income will come to an abrupt end near the 25th, requiring you to economise at every opportunity. If you make the effort to live within your means, the end of April will be remarkably pleasant. You don’t need lots of money to enjoy yourself.

SCORPIO [24 OCT - 22 NOV]

April gets off to a busy start; you’ll have to pace yourself to avoid burnout. Take it easy at the gym, or you could pull a muscle or strain a ligament. Gentle exercise is good for you at this time. Forgo jogging and climbing for swimming and yoga. The 10th is ideal for finding a new job. The competition will be fierce for a good position.

Be sure to emphasise your ability to work independently and solve problems at interviews. Your future employer is looking for somebody who doesn’t need constant supervision. An intimate relationship heats up in April.

Let your partner lavish you with tender loving care.

Usually, you are the one who adopts the nurturing role.

A role reversal will be a strange but pleasant sensation.

Resist the urge to burn your bridges at the end of April.

You need to maintain good relations with old neighbours, employers and friends to succeed in the months ahead.

SAGITTARIUS [23 NOV - 21 DEC]

April opens with a passionate lovers’ quarrel. Your amour will try pressuring you into buying a gift you can’t afford.

Stand firm. If your relationship is worthwhile, it will survive through good times and bad.

Single? You will meet someone unusually and remarkably

attractive around the 10th who will ask you for a date.

You appreciate their direct approach, while they like your sense of adventure. Together, you make a very cute couple. Buy some new clothes this month, when the stores will be filled with fashions that accentuate your best features. An embarrassing secret will be revealed in the final days of April. Someone you loved will tumble off their pedestal, and you will feel disillusioned. Retreat to some secluded place where you can lick your wounds in private. It takes time to recover from a shock like this. Fortunately, friends will offer plenty of emotional support when you’re ready to rejoin society.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC - 20 JAN]

Resist the urge to suppress a powerful upsurge of emotion at the beginning of April. You need to find an outlet for your anger, even at the risk of starting an argument. An oppressive relative keeps trying to discourage you from accepting a new work assignment. Turn a deaf ear to their gloomy predictions and take the job. Your duties will put you on the path of romance in one way or another over April. Keep your ears open for somebody with a sexy voice. If you already have a relationship, this would be a good time for you and your amour to move to a bigger place. Driving a hard bargain for a lower mortgage or rent will pay off.

An old friendship will break apart quite suddenly around the 25th. The two of you have been growing apart for some time, and you’re tired of straining to find common ground. If you’re honest, you can part ways without anger or recrimination.

AQUARIUS [21 JAN - 19 FEB]

A power struggle erupts between you and a neighbour in the early days of April. You have to decide whether it would be better to move to a different place. It’s impossible to relax when you’re constantly coming into contact with someone who drives you wild. The days surrounding the 10th will settle the matter for you. You will find a perfect living situation while visiting a nearby community. Moving into a new housing development allows you to make a fresh start. You’ll make all sorts of friends and will even be inspired to take up a hobby or sport. Beware of abusing your authority around the 25th, or your reputation will suffer. If you’re disappointed with the results of a job, start again. Your colleagues will be willing to help, provided you show the proper respect. Give the most creative member of your team free rein, as their imaginative contributions will be integral to your success.

PISCES [20 FEB - 20 MAR]

Early April will trigger an argument about religion, politics, or morality.

You don’t approve of a high powered friend’s beliefs. At times, you wonder whether you can maintain a relationship with somebody who has such different ideals. Although you have contrasting outlooks, you do complement each other in important ways. Maybe the two of you should just agree to disagree, and avoid controversial topics. An exciting moneymaking opportunity arrives near the 10th. Don’t expect this job to be just handed to you; you’ll have to elbow a few rivals out of the way. Still, this position is worth the extra effort. A mentor will fall off their pedestal as April draws to a close. This is a sign you need to be more lenient with the people you love and admire.

No matter how talented or accomplished somebody is, they are human in the final analysis. The sooner you accept this, the healthier your relationships will become.

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KIDS

THE GUIDE family

HANDS ON LEARNING: BILINGUAL PSYCHOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT CENTRE FOR CHILDREN

PLACES ANCRAA Giant Donkeys Cuddle a donkey or become a volunteer to help save this humble but threatened animal. CN 340, km 164, Finca los Pajaritos, Estepona.

Tel: 952 790 511 Bioparc Fuengirola Award winning zoo covering Madagascar, Africa and the Far East. C/ Camilo José Cela, 6. Tel: 952 666 301. www.bioparcfuengirola.es Black Box Teatro Dramatic Arts School for all ages. C/ Notario Luis Oliver 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 779 172. www.blackboxteatro.com Born to be Wild Jeep and dolphin eco-tours for the whole family. Open 9am-8pm. Blue Dolphin Beach Club, Estepona Beach. Tel: 639 720 246 Cable Ski Marbella Water ski cable system and pool. Open 11am-9pm (closed Mondays).

Urb. Las Medranas, San Pedro.

Tel: 952 785 579 Camelot Fun play centre in La Cañada with a wealth of games and activities and qualified child minders. Special events include baby and toddler mornings and a baby grow clinic, for mums to be and newborns. Ctra. de Ojén s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 764 766 Galaxia Versatile and fun play centre for children of all ages, with separate areas indoor and outdoor.

Mega slide, mini planetarium, birthday parties, summer camp.

Life size characters. C.C. Guadalmina, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 885 530 Crocodile Park Educational park with more then 300 monsters. Pose with baby crocodiles. Open 10am-

6pm. C/ Cuba, 14, Torremolinos.

Tel: 952 051 782 El Refugio del Burrito Donkey sanctuary just 40 minutes north of Málaga. Open 11am-7pm. Fuente de Piedra, Málaga. Tel: 952 735 513 Danzzas Ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap, theatre craft and hip-hop for kids. Classes at the Manolo Santana Racquets Club and at Plaza Gym. Contact Fiona on Tel: 663 646 040. www.danzzas.com Flamenco Classes Children aged 5 to 8 can learn to dance flamenco with Isabel Gil, a professional dancer. Classes on Monday and Wednesday at the Nueva Alcántara Tennis Club. Tel: 952 788 315 Funny Beach Kids paradise with go-karts, trampolines, minimotorbikes, mechanical bull.

Open daily. East side of Marbella.

Tel: 952 823 359

Ice Skating Rink and Indoor Swimming Pool New sports

centre with public ice skating, indoor pool, children’s pool. Avda.

García Lorca, Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 577 050

Inter Marbella Football Academy Football Academy for

boys and girls of all ages, just opposite La Cañada in Marbella.

Training is on Mondays and Wednesdays. Call Craig on Tel: 609 310 409. www.intermarbellacf.com Karting Club Málaga Go-kart circuit for kids and adults who feel a need for speed. Open 10ammidnight. Ctra. De Coin, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 581 704 Kids Multi-Sports Club A plethora of sports for children of

If you’d like to discover how to enhance your child’s communication and language abilities, social and emotional development or motor skills, step into Hands on Learning, a bilingual centre specialising in child psychology and development. Parents and children aged six months to 12 years are offered a wide range of activities, including an after school club, social and emotional learning programmes, yoga for pregnant women and children and baby massage. One-on-one therapy is also offered for all ages, including adults. The Centre now has a new baby and toddler school in the morning, for ages six months to three years. g Urb. Cortijo Blanco, C/ Pablo Picasso 38, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 927 279/ 681 095 516. www.handsonlearning.es

all ages and abilities, from tennis through to football, cycling and skateboarding. Parties with games, activities and bouncy castles. Urb. Parcelas del Golf, Avda. del Prado, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 656 618 712 Kidz Kingdom Fun play centre and birthday party area for kids, with a mini disco. Urb. Bel-Air, CN 340, km 166.2, Estepona.

Tel: 952 925 936

Kidz Kingdom 2 – Space City

Space theamed play centre for daily visits or parties. Life size Barney and Sponge Bob. Urb. El Rosario, CN 340, km 188.5, Marbella.

Tel: 952 839 275

Le Petit Milk & Roses

Pampering sessions for little girls, including manicures and dress-ups.

C/ Estebañez Calderon 6, Marbella.

Tel: 952 859 223 Little Fishes Swimming classes for newborns to 3-year-olds in Marbella, Estepona and Riviera.

Tel: 686 498 561/ 607 875 949. www.littlefishes-spain.com

Little Gem Swimmers

Swimming courses for babies and toddlers in Benalmádena. Contact Emma on Tel: 628 567 129. www.littlegemswimmers.com

Marbella Stage School

Kids can take accredited courses in dance, drama, musical theatre and singing after school on weekdays and all day on Saturdays. Tel: 952 906 865. www.marbellastageschool.com Megabowl & Sports Bar This bowling centre boasts state-ofthe-art tenpin bowling lanes as well as great food, drinks and entertainment. C.C. La Cañada, Ctra. Ojén, Marbella. Tel: 902 232 999. www.megabowlmarbella.com Musical Babes Babies and toddlers aged 6 months to 3 years enjoy singing, playing simple instruments and playing games.

Tel: 952 853 027. Los Jazmines 11, Bajo B, Nueva Alcántara, San Pedro de Alcántara. www.brainwaves-spain.com

NMA The Nelson Music Academy Kids aged 4 to 12 are

introduced to music in its funnest aspects. Classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm to 7pm, Saturdays from 11am to 1pm.

Edif. Jupiter 44, Local 3, C/ Jesús Cautivo, Los Boliches, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 478 416. www.nelsonmusicacademy.com Original Dolphin Safari The original dolphin safari, established in 1969! Daily sailings from Marina Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 71914. www. dolphinsafari.gi Parque La Batería Kids will have fun in this park, built in the civil war era and featuring four replica cannons, underground bunkers and passageways. Urb. Montemar Alto (near the train station), Torremolinos.

Plaza Mayor Family entertainment with multi-screen cinema, bars, restaurants, bowling alley and kids play area. Málaga.

Tel: 952 247 580 Scouting Kids will have fun being a boy or girl scout. The programme followed is the same as that in the UK. Tel: 680 870 270 Sealife Centre See 2 metre long sharks. Touch pools and walkthough glass tunnel. Open daily 10am-6pm. Benálmadena Port.

Tel: 952 560 150 Selwo Adventure Park Over 2,000 animals, 4x4 tours, plus adventure activities. Open 10am9pm. CN340 Km 162.5, Estepona.

Tel: 902 190 482 Selwo Marina Dolphins Exotic birds, penguins and virtual reality shows. Open 10am-6pm. Parque de la Paloma, Benalmádena.

Tel: 902 190 482

Stagecoach Renowned performing arts school for singing, dancing and acting skills. The academy is open to four to 16-yearolds. Tel: 952 900 453/666 838 213. www.stagecoach.es Steam Train Ride Enjoy a steam train ride crossing the Andalusian mountains with a scenic trip from San Roque to Ronda. Tel: 952 931 186 Swim Bebé Swim Swimming classes for under 4’s and AquaNatal classes for mums-to-be.

Tel: 617 520 588 Teleférico Benalmádena

Cable car to top of Calamorro mountain, falconry, trekking and horseriding. Arroyo de la Miel. Open 10am-6pm. Tel: 902 190 482 Tennis Camp Tennis lessons for kids from 4 years on, with professional coaches. Open 10am1pm. Club del Sol, Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595 The Music House Kids learn, grow and have fun making music. Open to children from 2 years on. Edif. San Pedro del Mar, Blq 7, local 12, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 785 515. www.themusichouse.es Tivoli World Biggest amusement park on the Costa del Sol. Open daily from 1pm. Avda. de Tivoli, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 577 016 Trenecito de Marbella Take a relaxing train ride to view the main sights of Marbella. Daily 10am-1pm. Paseo Maritimo.

Tel: 639 765 981 Yaina’s Park Indoor play centre with staff speaking Scandinavian, English and Spanish. Open seven days a week from 10am to 9pm.

Children’s parties, parent’s coffee shop with pool tables, television, food. Avda. Gamonal 4, Edif. Hercules, Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. Tel: 622 005 068

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“EXPECT ThE EXCEPTIoNAL”

UNRIVALLED EXCELLENCE IN LUXURY BUILDING Melior Vasari La Alzambra Local 3-1 Puerto Banus Marbella 29660 info@quaypropertygroup.com | www.quaypropertygroup.com Tel: +34 951 319 728