Essential Magazine December 2017

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INVEST WITH US AND GET A

50% YEARLY PROFIT

BOLADILLA VILLAGE MODERN VILLAS JUST 200 METERS FROM THE BEACH

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 900 m²

Terrace: 486 m²

Plot: 3,405 m²

Price: € 5,900,000

GOLDEN MILE Modern villa in a gated complex with 24-hr security. Top quality specs. Close to Puente Romano. Ref. ES8556

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 279 m²

Plot: 796 m²

Price: € 899,000

LA QUINTA Villa next to The Westin La Quinta Golf Hotel. Ref. ES9720

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 240 m²

Terrace: 46 m²

Price: € 1,999,950

LA TRINIDAD Penthouse in 5-star complex, close to beach. Ref. ES5774

An International Associate of Savills

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 293 m²

Plot: 1,000 m²

Price: € 995,000

NAGÜELES Villa with lots of potential on the Golden Mile. Ref. ES10170

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 217 m²

Terrace: 76 m²

Price: € 3,495,000

PUENTE ROMANO Beachside penthouse with sea views. Ref. ES9902

Season’s Greetings!

FROM THE PANORAMA TEAM

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 789 m²

Terrace: 142 m²

Plot: 1,750 m²

Price on application

MARBELLA EAST Stunning villa with fabulous sea views, only 150 metres to Marbella’s best beaches! Community with 24-hour security. Ref. ES9325

Bedrooms: 2

Built: 117 m²

Terrace: 24 m²

Price: € 970,000

PUENTE ROMANO Penthouse with all facilities at hand. Ref. ES10094

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 428 m²

Plot: 1,215 m²

Price: € 2,500,000

MARBELLA EAST Modern villa ready to move into. Ref. ES10194

Regulated by RICS

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 327 m²

Plot: 812 m²

Price: € 1,150,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Villa walking distance to Puerto Banús. Ref. ES9830

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 565 m²

Plot: 401 m²

Price: € 4,000,000

PUENTE ROMANO Second line beach villa. Prime location. Ref. ES10155

Offices at Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa and opposite the Marbella Club hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

18

Issue 220 • December 2017

S T A F F

PUBLISHER AND DIRECTOR

YEARS

GENERAL MANAGER

ANDREA BÖJTI andrea@essentialmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

U ANNIVERSARY U

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

SALES SUPPORT ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR DESIGN & LAYOUT STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

PRINTING DEPÓSITO LEGAL

SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com JAN DENDAUW jan@essentialmagazine.com MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com

ANDREA BÖJTI INMA AURIOLES KEVIN HORN (www.photographermarbella.com)

IAIN BLACKWELL, BELINDA BECKETT, MICHEL CRUZ, CRISTINA FALKENBERG, RIK FOXX, RUSSELL GRANT, CARLOS READ, TONY WHITNEY, DAVID WISHART 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

affiliated to:

CONDITIONS

The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information published herein, or be held accountable for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages.

Marbella Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers. © Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. for Marbella Magazine.

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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This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.

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VILLA

A L AYA

OPEN HOUSE 15 TH JANUARY 2018 | CALL NOW FOR EXCLUSIVE PRE-LAUNCH ACCESS Front Line Golf Aloha · 5 Bedrooms · 6 Bathrooms · Cinema, Bodega & Games Room Stunning Open Views · Exceptional Quality · Award-winning Interior Design

OFFICE +34 952 765 060 MOBILE +34 627 813 545 EMAIL info@solvilla.no Hotel Marbella Club, Oficina 10, Blvd. Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, 29602 Marbella, Spain WWW.SOLVILLA.NO

the most desirable address on the golden mile

34 luxurious apartments & penthouses from 695.000€

Walking distance to Puente Romano & the beach · Private pools on the terraces · Luxury Spa with indoor pool, sauna, hammam Gym, paddle courts and jogging path · Full property management · Exclusive 24 hours concierge service

Exclusive sales agent: Engel & Völkers Marbella · www.lameridianasuites.com · info@lameridianasuites.com Tel.: +34 952 868 406

LU X U RY L I V I N G N E XT TO P U E N T E RO M A N O Marbella Golden Mile

26 contemporary detached and semi-detached villas with private pools PRICES FROM ONLY 1.075.000E

Exclusive sales agent: Engel & Völkers Marbella · info@thecollectionmarbella.com · Tel.: +34 951 492 549

You only live once,

Frontline Golf Las Brisas: Designer villa with exceptional golf views, representing the very pinnacle of contemporary style and elegance, offers ultimate luxury living in a prime location. Cinema room, gym, various indoor lounge areas. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 880 m2, plot 1.542 m2.

E&V ID: W-02ABJJ Price: 3.395.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Sierra Blanca: Very attractive price! Classical villa with magnificent sea views from all floors! Rooftop terrace with sauna, outdoor heated pool. 4 beds, 5 baths. Built 536 m2, plot 1.533 m2.

E&V ID: W-0292E0. Price: 3.450.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Sierra Blanca: Under the market price! Built on a large plot, in a desirable gated community, classic style luxurious villa with elegant interiors throughout. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 634 m2, plot 2.002 m2.

E&V ID: W-029JSD. Price: 3.300.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Frontline Golf Nueva Andalucía: Luxurious apartment with golf views. Exclusive gated community. Direct lift access, 24h security, 3 pools, gym. 2 beds, 2 baths. Living area 98 m2, terrace 50 m2.

E&V ID: W-02ADYK. Price: 595.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Second Line Beach Bahía de Marbella: Bright garden apartment with large terraces in the luxurious Gran Bahía. 5 pools, tropical gardens, 24h security. 2 beds, 2 baths. Living area 123 m2, terrace 52 m2.

E&V ID: W-028KBG. Price: 595.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Office Elviria: 952 83 55 80 · Office El Rosario: 952 83 20 40 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

we will show you where!

Second Line Beach Golden Mile: Spectacular penthouse in Don Gonzalo. Extraordinary 360 degrees sea and mountains views from the unique roof top terrace with pool and various chill-out areas! Concierge, 24h security. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 240 m2, terrace 251 m2.

E&V ID: W-02AF2R. P.O.A. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Hacienda Las Chapas: Contemporary villa with beautiful sea and mountain views. Latest interior design, spacious open-plan living areas, pool and cinema. 5 beds, 6 baths. Built 715 m2, plot 1.720 m2.

E&V ID: W-027M56. Price: 2.950.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 55 80.

El Madroñal: Just completed! Boasting the best position in this exclusive area, the residence offers spectacular sea views and ultimate interior design. 4 beds, 5 baths. Built 835 m2, plot 2.600 m2.

E&V ID: W-02AI03 Price: 3.850.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Beachfront Puerto Banús: Fantastic penthouse with stunning sea views. Terrace with BBQ, direct beach access, 2 pools, gym, sauna, Hammam. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 182 m², terrace 115 m².

E&V ID: W-0280H1. Price: 1.700.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Frontline Beach Los Monteros: Spacious apartment with golf and sea views in the exclusive Palm Beach complex. Direct beach access, 2 pools, 24h security. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 170 m2, terrace 43 m2.

E&V ID: W-02774B. Price: 979.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Office Puerto Banús: 952 85 98 60 · Office Marbella: 952 86 84 06 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

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EN T

SOLE

SO LE

AG

AGENT

Ultimate Luxury Living and Entertaining Unique villa masterfully designed to enjoy leisure time and entertainment, taking full advantage of its privileged location in one of the most exclusive gated residential communities of Marbella. This bespoke jewel offers many exceptional features and private areas in which to relax and enjoy the imposing views across the Marbella coastal area and the Mediterranean to Gibraltar.

Styled with acute attention to detail, this home is equally sophisticated inside and outside, with high quality build whose advanced engineering, design and finishing are reflected throughout.

A dream house for entertaining on a private or corporate level, just a few minutes’ drive from the centre of town, the beaches and Puerto Banús.

Ref: DM3365 Price: 6.900.000

cascada de camoján

8

7

1.844 m

2

2.169 m

2

SOLE

AGENT

FI N E S T PROPERTIES

A selection of outstanding properties in and around Marbella which stand out for their location, price, views and value.

As Marbella Luxury Real Estate specialists for almost three decades and exclusive affiliates of Knight Frank for the Costa del Sol, we are committed to offering our clients the best property portfolio, excellence in service and a completely secure experience when selling or buying a property.

Ref: DM4188 Price: 2.300.000€

IMARA Golden Mile. Duplex Penthouse. Gated.

3

3

591 m2

Diana Morales Properties has an extensive selection of luxury villas and apartments for sale in the most sought after locations in Marbella and surrounding areas. For advice on any of your real estate needs please contact us.

info@dmproperties.com DMproperties.com MARBELLA Av. Cánovas del Castillo, 4 Tel. 952 765 138 NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Av. del Prado, Urb. Fuerte Aloha, Local 2A Tel. 952 908 415

Over 418 offices in 60 Countries

Ref: DM4159 Price: 3.590.000€

Ref: DM4054 Price: 2.950.000€

nagüeles Modern villa in the Golden Mile.

5

4

494 m2

1.000 m2

Ref: DM4170 Price: 2.450.000€

EL HERROJO Golf Valley. Sea views. Gated.

4

4

685 m2

1.800 m2

ALOHA Golf Valley. Great location.

5

5

514 m2

1.307 m2

WE CREATE

Grand collection prices from â‚Ź978,000 For more sales information +34 952 856 171 +34 618 654 363 www.benahavishills.com 220 Benahavis Hills.indd 1

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LIFESTYLE

ONLY 1 VILLA LEFT

COMES FULLY FURNISHED AND TURN KEY READY

Clubhouse

Spa

Hills Cafe

THE GRAND COLLECTION AT BENAHAVIS HILLS COUNTRY CLUB There are currently ONLY A FEW HOMES left.

These properties have been specifically designed to represent expansive style and great investment value.

There are no comparable properties at this price per square meter across the whole of the region.

Benahavis Hills Country Club offers the “trinity” of luxury amenities: nearby exquisite signature Golf Courses, vast expanses of soft sandy beaches, the full

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service marinas of Puerto Banús and its very own relaxing private spas and wellness facilities. Located in a privileged position above the village of Benahavis, renowned for its gastronomic restaurants, this 24/7 guarded development offers security and safety as well as onsite concierge services. In addition, the clubhouse including restaurant, spa, and gym is only a few steps away.

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D

contents the trend Cinema 38 HBO 40

The Graduate 50th Anniversary 42

Music News 44

The Gift of Reading 46 Tech Treats 48

The Koenigsegg Regera 50

the focus El Gordo 54 Luxury Brands 60 Wonderful Watches by Rolex 68 Spanish Water Dogs 72

the pro 122 Enterprise 130 Energy Nordic 132 Andalusian Inheritance Tax 134 The Vibe

the leisure 142 Silver Muse Cruise to Canada 150 Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square

the gourmet 155 El Jardín de Lutz 157 La Loggia 158 Food News

Human Rights Day 74

160 Fabián Cangas of Casanis

Audrey Hepburn 78

162 Jesús Madrazo of Contino

Alejandro Hermann 80

the style

the guide 164 Listings

A Stunning Villa in Sotogrande 84

173 Pet News

Christmas Décor by Laura Ashley 92

174 What’s On

Fashion by Hannibal Laguna 94 Hot Looks for Winter by Airfield 106

176 Stars for December 178 Coolest Toys for Kids

the spa Fenty Beauty by Rihanna 110 Beauty Must-Haves 112 In Pursuit of Happiness 116 Health News 118 Advances in Heart Surgery and Treatment 120

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LUXURY MODERN LIVING IN PUERTO BANUS 2 BED, 3 BATH DUPLEX PENTHOUSE WITH GARAGE

The best location in Puerto Banus, next to Dior, Hermes and Loewe. Totally refurbished, highest qualities, best brands. Bright, clean lines, floor to ceiling doors and much more.

Top floor: Large open concept living, dining and kitchen area, guest toilet and balcony.

Lower floor: 2 large bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms with underfloor heating, big wardrobes.

GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

www.palm3homes.com info@palm3homes.com

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€1.195.000

Tel: +34 952 837 190 20/11/2017 15:21

D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

W

elcome to the bumper festive edition of Magazine in which you will find much cheer and goodwill.

Come with us on a magical voyage aboard the all-new Silver Muse, marvel at the sleek lines of the Koenigsegg Regera, get dressed up to the nines with Hannibal Laguna’s evening gowns, and have a splutter on El Gordo, the biggest lottery in the world, which this year boasts an astounding prize fund of €2.38 Billion.

We check into the magnificent Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square and check out a modern masterpiece in Sotogrande, courtesy of Ark Architects and Patricia Darch. We also bring you wonderful watches from Rolex, great gadgets for gifts and present ideas for children and pets.

Enjoy our features on the essence of a luxury brand and The Graduate revisited, which was released 50 years ago this month. Revel in reading about iconic talent, Audrey Hepburn, and see our interview with prolific artist, Alejandro Hermann, at his new studio on Marbella’s Golden Mile.

As well as all of this and more, don’t miss our suggestions of recommended restaurants and fine wines for special occasions.

CHRISTMAS is coming!

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w the trend READING MUSIC FILMS GADGETS MOTORING TRENDS

38 Cinema 40 HBO

42

The Graduate 50th Anniversary

44

Music News

46

The Gift of Reading

48

Tech Treats

50

The Koenigsegg Regera

THE HOLIDAYS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER, WHICH IS A GREAT REASON TO SNUGGLE UP BY THE FIREPLACE AND CATCH YOUR FAVOURITE SERIES ON HBO, RELIVE THE MAGIC OF THE GRADUATE (NOW CELEBRATING ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY), OR TRAVEL IN YOUR DREAMS IN SERENE STYLE ABOARD THE HOT NEW KOENIGSEGG REGERA.

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NEW EXCITING PROJECTS IN THE GOLF VALLEY & SURROUNDING AREA

VILLA IN NUEVA ANDALUCIA, LOS NARANJOS GOLF Estimated completion: early 2018 • Bedrooms: 4 • Bathrooms: 4 Built approx.: 359 m2 • Terraces & porches: 160 m2 • Plot: 826 m2 Price: 1.800.000 €

VILLA IN LA QUINTA GOLF Estimated completion: TBA • Bedrooms: 5 • Bathrooms: 5 Indoor swimmingpool • Built approx.: 750 m2 • Terraces & porches: 400 m2 Plot: 1.430 m2 • Price: 3.495.000 €

CALDERON DE LA BARCA, NUEVA ANDALUCIA Estimated completion: TBA • Bedrooms: 5 • Bathrooms: 5 Built: 511 m2 • Terraces & porches: 150 m2 • Plot: 1.178 m2 Price: 3.395.000 €

VILLA IN EL HERROJO, LA QUINTA GOLF Estimated completion: mid 2018 • Bedrooms: 5 • Bathrooms: 5 Built approx.: 500 m2 • Terraces & porches: 440 m2 Plot: 1.919 m2 • Price: 3.990.000 €

Tel. (+34) 952 816 250 / (+34) 619 553 065

YOUR PROPERTY SPECIALIST IN MARBELLA SINCE 1981

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w THE TREND cinema

COMPILED BY MA RIS

e BLOCKBUSTER OF

A CUTILLAS

THE MONTH

nson (Looper) »» DIRECTOR Rian Joh ction »» GENRE Fantasy/A n, ley, Domhnall Gleeso Rid isy Da »» ACTORS d For on rris Ha ac, Adam Driver, Oscar Isa

in ps as a noble warrior Rey took her initial ste this In .

16) (20 Awakens Star Wars: The Force h her teammates Finn, wit k bac is she r, pte cha e Skywalker, to fight the Poe and the great Luk ce to humanity. dark side and restore pea

i d e J t s a L e h T

»» DIRECTOR Stephen Chbosky (The Perks of Being a Wallfower) »» GENRE Drama »» ACTORS Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, Jacob Tremblay, Mandy Patinkin

Wonder

If your kids are into reading then they have undoubtedly devoured best-selling book, Wonder (R.J. Palacio) more than once. This tender, beautiful, funny book about what it is like to grow up with a facial deformity, is now part of the official secondary reading list in the United States and, finally, audiences can enjoy it in all in its magic on the big screen. Jacob Tremblay plays Wonder – a boy with Treacher-Collins syndrome who believes that every single one of us deserves a standing ovation at least once in our lifetime!

»» DIRECTOR George Clooney (Monuments Men) »» GENRE Black Comedy »» ACTORS Matt Damon, Oscar Isaac, Julianne Moore, Jack Conley

Suburbicon

If black comedy is your thing then don’t miss out on this flick, written by talented brothers, Joel and Ethan Coen. Matt Damon plays a boring yet stable office worker who loses his wife, suffers a break-in and discovers that his peaceful community is not as wholesome as he believed.

»» DIRECTOR Colin Trevorrow (Jurassic World) »» GENRE Thriller »» ACTORS Naomi Watts, Jacob Tremblay, Jaeden Lieberher

The Book of Henry

Things aren’t always as they seem, above all in the small home town where the Carpenters live.

Naomi Watts plays Susan Carpenter, a single mom with two kids who works as a waitress in a restaurant alongside her best friend, Sheila.

One day, Susan discovers that her neighbours are hiding a dark secret. Her son Henry, a gifted child, crafts a special notebook with a detailed plan of how to rescue a classmate from her abusive stepfather. The plan is intricate, visionary and sophisticated enough for Susan to follow to the letter.

»» DIRECTOR Jake Kasdan (Bad Teacher 2) »» GENRE Fantasy »» ACTORS Karen Gillan, Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

Four teens find that life can go from bad to worse when they unlock the secret worlds hidden beneath the game of Jumanji. This time the culprit is an old video gaming system containing a game they have never heard of: Jumanji… and we all know how dangerous this immersive game can be! Each of the players will have to face their greatest fears head-on to have any hope of returning to the real world.

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Naturally Modern Living

PaloAltoMarbella.COM TO BOOK A TOUR: 900 102 322

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w THE TREND cinema

! !

G M HBO Victoria Ortiz Téllez fills you in on what to expect from premium cable and satellite TV network, HBO. her close personal relationships. Some documentaries are extremely intimate, seemingly created to help those undergoing trials and tribulations – The (Dead Mothers) Club, for instance, brings us the moving stories of daughters who have had to cope with the early loss of a parent.

All this content is available for €7,99 a month, with a free month’s trial period.

NEW AND UPCOMING HBO SHOWS

WHAT IS HBO?

If you are heavily into series and home viewing, you are probably already a member of a streaming/on-demand service. Alongside Netflix, HBO is one of the world’s top options, since it boasts an ample catalogue of films and highly rated series such as Game of Thrones, True Detective and Girls. The network also features older classics such as The Sopranos or Sex and the City, which continue to garner interest despite the passing years.

HBO divides its content into three categories: Z Films and sagas such as Twilight, Ocean’s Eleven, The Matrix, The Lord of the Rings, etc.

Z Family viewing – safe for children of all ages since the most risqué scene they are likely to view is one in which a princess kisses a toad. Series in this category include Peppa Pig, Disney cartoons and Paw Patrol.

Z Documentaries – covering a plethora of subjects including life in the African savannah and the beauty of the Californian coast. When we last checked, HBO’s Documentary homepage included films such as Spielberg, which features exclusive interviews with family members and actors who have worked alongside him.

Also of interest is Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy, offering a fresh insight into Princess Diana through

New seasons and new shows air frequently on HBO, but some releases are more hotly awaited than others, including the fourth season of Vikings, which focuses on the strong bond between Ragnar and his children – a bond that could just be the end of him.

Another recent release was the second season of Insecure, starring Issa Rae (who won a Golden Globe for her stellar acting). Shortly afterwards Ballers was launched – a drama/comedy that has received excellent reviews. The series was created by Stephen Levinson and stars Dwayne Johnson ‘The Rock’, playing a former football pro who now works as a financial manager for players in Miami.

Room 104 is another hot series – each episode takes place in the same hotel room but focuses on different characters and genres – including comedy, crime and horror.

Fans who were left hanging after Season 7 of Game of Thrones ended, meanwhile, are eagerly awaiting the

eighth season, which, it is rumoured, will have less than seven episodes, despite fans clamouring for more.

BRINGING THE MOVIES HOME

HBO has a host of new and old film releases, perfect for families wishing to enjoy a home viewing experience.

There are films for children like The Little Mermaid, though adults will also meet their match in films like 28 Days Later, The Exorcist or Blade. The site continuously updates its vast library with new releases, so you can always enjoy a film you never got around to seeing at the cinema – when we last checked, the list included La La Land (the groundbreaking musical for the new millennium), Why Him? (an entertaining comedy starring Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston as a reluctant father-in-law) and the must-see Discover Tokyo Project (a short film starring Elisabeth Moss and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, which explores the mysterious romance between two strangers as they explore the intricacies of Tokyo).

HBO is strong on comedy, action and drama – virtually any and every genre you wish to view is available.

SPORTING INTERESTS

You can also watch important sporting events on HBO – whether boxing, football or basketball is your thing, you will find the latest matches and action from all over the world. e

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LA P E RLA B LA NCA A New Benchmark for Luxury Villas in Marbella Frontline Beach · New Golden Mile · Plot: 4.125 m 2 · Built: 2.513 m 2 · Bedrooms: 12 · Bathrooms: 13 · P.O.A.

w w w.la p e r la b la n ca m a r b e lla .co m

Tel.: 952 765 138

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Tel.: 952 810 102

Tel.: 952 863 750

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w THE TREND cinema

50th anniversary of THE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

WHY THE FILM’S THEMES CONTINUE TO RESONATE

F

GRADUATE

or most cinephiles, Roger Ebert is as close to a God when it comes to film critique, as there is. Ebert, who sadly passed away in 2013, reviewed films from 1963 until his death, for the Chicago Sun-Times.

The only review of his I find a flaw with is that of The Graduate, now celebrating its 50th anniversary, with special screenings and talks across the United States. Ebert noted that “Great movies remain themselves over the generations; they retain a serene sense of their own identity.

Lesser movies are captives of their time. They get dated and lose their original focus and power. The Graduate (I can see clearly now) is a lesser movie. It comes out of a specific time in the late 1960s when parents stood for stodgy middleclass values, and ‘the kids’ were joyous rebels at the cutting edge of the sexual and political revolutions.”

With due respect, Mr. Ebert, this film reaches far beyond its time; it continues to delight and stir the emotions. I challenge anyone to whom this film has meant something, to not chuckle with delight at the famous scene in which Mr. McGuire gives the recently graduated Benjamin Braddock a piece of ‘crucial advice’:

“Mr. McGuire: I just want to say one word to you. Just one word.

Benjamin: Yes, sir.

Mr. McGuire: Are you listening?

Benjamin: Yes, I am.

Mr. McGuire: Plastics.”

Or to not silently cheer for Ben when the world tries to steal his soul – in the stealthiest way possible:

“Mr. Braddock: Ben, what are you doing?

Benjamin: Well, I would say that I’m just drifting. Here in the pool.

Mr. Braddock: Why? Benjamin: Well, it’s very comfortable just to drift here.

Mr. Braddock: Have you thought about graduate school?

Benjamin: No. Mr. Braddock: Would you mind telling me then what those four years of college were for? What was the point of all that hard work?

Benjamin: You got me.”

Yes, it is right about now that Ben drops off his floating bed into the pool, wishing to be engulfed by solitude, and Simon & Garfunkel’s haunting The Sound of Silence begins to play.

Mr. Ebert was so wrong; The Graduate was not locked into the generational gap; it merely used this construct as a means of delving into deeper matters such as depression, solitude, repressed sexuality, and the never-ending battle between individuality and conformity. Ben is Everyman struggling to find their dream, a process that usually takes time, one that is precious, vulnerable, and easily drowned by the pressure to ‘make something of oneself’. Mr.

McGuire may have been right: the decades after the release of The Graduate did, indeed, see a boom in the plastics industry. Had Benjamin taken his advice he would be an old millionaire by now – ultimately, the tragedy is just that – as Ebert notes, despite the seemingly ‘happy ending’: “There were true rebels in movies of the period (see Easy Rider), but Benjamin Braddock was not one of them. I wonder how long it took him to get into plastics.” That is something we will never know, but who is to say Benjamin and Elaine didn’t have the gumption to be better, or to create a more meaningful life, than their parents?

Ideological themes aside, there is so much about The Graduate that makes it one of those films you just cannot resist watching again and again. The acting is of the very best calibre – Anne Bancroft and Dustin Hoffman are two powerhouses who play off each other with irony and wit, producing some of the best performances in cinematic history – Hoffman in particular, with his sweaty, awkward, nervous portrayal, was unbeatable. Interestingly, although Bancroft was depicted as much older than Hoffman, the actress was only 36 at the time of shooting; Hoffman, meanwhile, was 30 – not much of an age difference there.

The soundtrack was another

“Benjamin: For god’s sake, Mrs. Robinson.

Here we are. You got me into your house.

You give me a drink.

You... put on music.

Now you start opening up your personal life to me and tell me your husband won’t be home for hours.

Mrs. Robinson: So? Benjamin: Mrs. Robinson, you’re trying to seduce me… ”

bonus. Director Mike Nichols recently admitted (in an interview with Variety) that he was obsessed with Simon & Garfunkel while shooting the film.

Interestingly, the duo paid deference to the director, changing the title of the catchy tune Mrs. Roosevelt, to Mrs. Robinson. Also featuring on the soundtrack are (as mentioned above) The Sound of Silence, Scarborough Fair, On the Strip, Sunporch Cha-ChaCha, April will come and more by the dynamic folk-rock duo, as well as instrumental pieces by Dave Grusin.

The design in this film, meanwhile, is soul food for interior and fashion buffs. Remember Mrs. Robinson’s chic home, or her leopard-skin coat and black stockings? Every little detail spells style – from the swish hotel bar (once again surrounding Benjamin in water imagery – thanks to the aquarium behind him, complete with submerged scuba diver) to the stoic church (where Ben stretches his arms out like Jesus, begging Elaine not to marry her fiancée).

For me, The Graduate will always be a film about desperation – akin to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest with a dash of Stepford Wives. Benjamin’s struggle, given such intense life by Dustin Hoffman in his breakthrough role, is one that continues to haunt me to this day – what dreams have we allowed to pass us by along the way? e

42 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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w THE TREND music

¿QUÉ PASA? U2

WORDS RIK FOXX

The year comes to a close without any major international acts although there are some Spanish gigs (see below) – but there are bound to be tribute artists aplenty along the coast over the festive season so check your local weekly publications for any such gigs. All information on this page was correct at the time of writing.

Puerto Rican Latin trap newcomer FARRUKO is at the Auditorio Príncipe de Asturias in Torremolinos on December 5. Ticket info: ticketbell.com/search On the same night – LEÓN BENAVENTE performs at La Cochera Cabaret in Málaga. Ticket info: ticketmaster.es Spanish icon PASIÓN VEGA is expected to entertain a full house at Málaga's Teatro de Cervantes on December 15 and the QUEEN tribute band QUEENIE, featuring the respected Czech Republic singer MICHAEL KLUCH, play on the 27th. Ticket info: teatrocervantes.es The second heavy rock Download Festival takes places in Madrid between June 28 and 30 2018 and GUNS N' ROSES, MARILYN MANSON, JUDAS PRIEST plus AVENGED SEVENFOLD have all been confirmed. OZZY OSBOURNE is also one of the headliners on the opening date of his one year plus ‘final’ farewell tour. Ticket info: downloadfestival.es The annual battle between the Y (as in why?)

Factor winner's release and the John Lewis £7 million TV advert song (the ELBOW cover of the BEATLES' Golden Slumbers – a track off the 1969 Abbey Road LP) look like losing the race for the prestigious UK festive number one single if, as

expected, Last Christmas by WHAM! is rereleased in remembrance of GEORGE MICHAEL, who was found dead on Christmas Day 12 months ago.

The song peaked at number two when originally released in 1984 and only failed to reach number one as the BAND AID charity single Do They Know It's Christmas? took that honour. His 1990 Listen Without Prejudice album recently commanded the LP chart following October's UK TV Channel 4 George Michael: Freedom documentary.

The UK Christmas number one single will be announced on December 22. A planned tribute charity concert in memory of the late singer has been blocked by his family, meanwhile record bosses are trying to persuade them to release a collection of unreleased songs next year.

One for vinyl collectors – Happy Christmas, Beatle People! is a limited edition boxed set featuring the band's annual festive messages which were only mailed out to fan club members on a flexi-disc between 1963 and 1969. The much sought after originals featured a “jolly Christmas message” that had been specially recorded by the Fab Four for their fans. The December 15 released collection includes seven rainbow coloured 7" inch singles and a 16-page booklet with reproductions of the fan club only original ‘National Newsletters’.

In a 1992 letter recently sold on e-Bay, the crazed killer of JOHN LENNON believed Jesus had forgiven him for shooting the legend dead on December 8, 1980. Did you know that while on holiday in Greece in 1969, LENNON was warned by an astrologer that he would be “shot on an island” and cancelled a yachting trip around the Greek Islands. Eleven years later he was gunned down on New York's Manhattan Island.

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

The long awaited U2 album Songs of Experience will finally see the light of day on December 1. It was expected a couple of months ago but singer BONO suffered an unspecified health scare so serious that it was decided to delay its release date.

ADELE has pulled out of the running to record the next JAMES BOND theme tune as she is giving her voice a rest after her strenuous tour earlier this year. It is now a two-horse race between BEYONCÉ and EMILI SANDÉ who recently returned to the music biz radar with the release of her Kingdom Coming EP last month.

As reported last month, JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE will headline February's American football's Superbowl half-time show and he wants JANET JACKSON to join him again on stage. The two paired up for the 2004 event where she had a ‘wardrobe malfunction’ when he ripped off part of her costume to unexpectedly reveal her bare breast on live TV. The sport's higher hierarchy are against the idea but the singer has reportedly said he

may pull-out if he doesn't get his own way.

GARY BARLOW will have a very busy 2018 after announcing a 34-date UK solo tour starting in April. This will be followed in the autumn by a ‘big’ TAKE THAT 25th anniversary tour which will run into 2019 to promote a greatest hits collection, which will include new “secret tracks” featuring ROBBIE WILLIAMS but, despite pleas from the band, he has stated he will not go on the road with them as he has plans of his own.

So will the reported SPICE GIRLS reunion really happen? it's suggested all five will get together for a TV special and possible a new album next year – me thinks Mrs. BECKHAM will have a change of heart and ruin the dreams of many. e

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w THE TREND books

THE GIFT OF

READING

If your loved ones are into reading, delight them this Christmas with one of these new releases, suggested by Marisa Cutillas.

THE HATE U GIVE BY ANGIE THOMAS

Starr Carter is a 16-year-old who is caught between two worlds: her posh private school and the impoverished neighbourhood she was born and grew up in. The tenuous balance that holds her life together is shattered when she witnesses the shooting of her best friend and the story sparks avid media interest and protests in the street. The only one who knows what really happened is Starr, but will she tell the truth, despite the ramifications for her community and her family?

THE BOYS IN THE BOAT BY DANIEL JAMES BROWN

This is the true story of a hotchpotch team of men – the sons of loggers, shipyard employees and farm hands – who battled against the elite crews of the East Coast of the United States and Britain in the 1936 Olympics – and took home gold, subsequently defeating Adolf Hitler’s German rowing team. The book is currently being made into a movie.

ANDALUSIA: BETWEEN DREAM AND REALITY

BY TONY BRYANT

Author Tony Bryant brings us this enlightening book on the rich cultural history and varied ethnicity of Andalusia, with a special focus on legend and superstition. Says the author, “The average Andalusian displays an excessive willingness to believe in supernatural influences, and their fascination with the occult is another quality that adds to Andalusia’s kaleidoscopic charm.

Andalusia’s history is a melting pot of legend that has been bejewelled with actual historical events, religious persuasion and superstitious poppycock.

Of course, the tales of poets and romantic travellers are woven into this history; all of which reads like an ancient bedtime story.”

BEHOLD THE DREAMERS

BY IMBOLO MBUE

Imbolo Mbue is a Cameroon native who wrote this, her first novel, after losing her job as a research manager in the USA following the 2008 crash.

Behold the Dreamers is the story of Jende Jonga: a Cameroonian immigrant who heads to the United States to make a better life for his wife and his son. He lands a job as the chauffer of a senior executive at Lehman Brothers. However, when the crisis lands, Jende begins to notice cracks in the perfect façade of his employers and he is forced to make an impossible choice with dramatic consequences for himself and his family.

CIRCLING THE SUN

BY PAULA MCLAIN

In The Paris Wife, author Paula McLain brought the dramatic story of Ernest Hemingway’s first wife, Hadley Richardson, to life. In Circling the Sun, she focuses on aviator, Beryl Markham, and the love triangle she was trapped in, alongside safari hunter Denys Finch Hatton and Karin Blixen (author of Out of Africa).

46 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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w THE TREND technology

2

1

Technology is the gift that just keeps giving. Unlike virtually every other material possession, it holds you entertained for hours and enables you to discover new passions. These are just a few Christmas presents for the tech lover in your life.

3

TOP TECH GIFTS COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

1 – THE SCOTTEVEST: A perfect gift for travellers is The SCOTTeVEST: a smart-looking casual jacket that contains 25 pockets to house all your gadgets, as well as an RFID-blocking pocket to keep your credit cards and other important documents safe. i www.scottevest.com

2 – BOSE SOUNDSPORT WIRELESS HEADPHONES: Working out to your favourite uplifting music always helps you give your best performance, but a poor set of headphones can really stop you from achieving your goals. If your loved one is a sports addict, this is the perfect gift – featuring supreme acoustic performance, earbuds that never fall out, easy pairing with your Blutooth device (so you needn’t worry about tangled cables), and sweat-/weather-resistant acoustic ports. i www.bose.com 3 – LIBRATONE ZIPP: This modern looking, portable speaker with interchangeable jackets is completely compatible with Alexa,

4

so you can speak to it just as you would to your favourite virtual assistant. Tell it what songs to play, to turn your bedroom lights off, or watch a film with outstanding quality sound. i www.libratone.com 4 – THE LOGITECH G920 DRIVING FORCE RACING WHEEL FOR XBOX/ PC: If there is a teen in the house who enjoys driving and gaming, they will love you forever if you buy them this nifty wheel, which comes with pedals and offers gamers the look and feel of a high-performance racecar. Designed to faithfully simulate the feel of a sports car and tyres on various types of terrain.

5 – BEATS SOLO WIRELESS ON-EAR HEADPHONES: A light, comfy headset offering an amazing 40 hours of battery life. A mere five-minute charge will give you three hours of listening. Touted as ‘the perfect everyday headphone’, it provides a top-class listening experience. i www.beatsbydre.com 6 – THE AMAZON ECHO: Goodbye Siri, Hello Alexa! This handsfree device provides up-to-date information on everything from the weather, to traffic or information on your favourite pop stars. It will also switch the lights on or off and play Jeopardy and more games with you!

i www.gaming.logitech.com

i www.amazon.com

6

5

48 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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w THE TREND motoring

l u f r e w o P The

KOENIGSEGG

REGERA SUPERCAR

WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KOENIGSEGG

For many years, the ‘fastest car in the world’ title has been in the firm grasp of Bugatti, but now there’s a new supercar maker on top of the podium – Koenigsegg. The widely accepted record involves driving from zero to 400 km/h and back to a standstill and timing how long it takes. A Koenigsegg Agera RS driven by test driver Niklas Lilja at Vandel Airfield in Denmark did the deed in an astonishing 36.44 seconds, an impressive 5.52 seconds faster than the previous record holder, the Bugatti Chiron. The record was, surprisingly, achieved using a five-litre V-8 twin turbo while the Chiron’s mark was set with an eightlitre 16-cylinder powerplant.

S

wedish supercar manufacturer Koenigsegg competes in a rarefied automotive world, even when compared to rivals like Ferrari and Lamborghini. The cars are produced in very limited numbers, they’re very expensive and they have always been exceptionally speedy.

Koenigseggs have often topped ‘world’s fastest car’ lists, including the one in the Guinness Book of Records. For some of these beauties, 430 km/h is well within reach if you’re bold enough to try it.

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The company was launched in 1994 in Sweden by Christian von Koenigsegg, an automotive visionary who set out to build world-class supercars. The first street-legal car took several years to develop and rolled off the line in 2002 and since then, the company has become something of a legend in the supercar business. That first car, the CCX, won many awards worldwide for its beauty and its remarkable performance. Other models followed, including the current Regera and Agera.

Regera production was set for 80 units and for the Agera, just three. Like their predecessors, this duo of hypercars boasts astonishing performance figures with one of the variants reaching 300 km/h in less than 12 seconds.

Koenigsegg builds engines of a unique design, combining twinturbo V-8s with electric motors and a direct drive transmission. Some of these powerplants are rated at a whopping 1,500-horsepower and of course, the prices of these cars are expectedly high – well

over €2 million for a well-equipped Regera.

Interestingly, the Regera is even faster than the Agera, so Koenigsegg will head back to the track at some stage to reduce the world record even further.

Koenigsegg cars have featured in several movies, such as Need for Speed, and inspired all kinds of ventures into exotic vehicles by would-be rivals. One innovative Russian designer, Maksim Burov, has even conceptualised a motorcycle as an exploration of what a Koenigsegg two-wheeler might look like. Busy with a variety of existing projects, the company emphasises that it has no plans whatsoever to enter that field and will stay with the cars that bear their name.

Some analysts believe that a market exists for exotic motorcycles built in very limited quantities and pressure from potential buyers could prompt ever-imaginative Christian von Koenigsegg to take the plunge. Aspiring Koenigsegg buyers who do like the wind in their hair when they take to the road now have the opportunity. A roadster version of the Regera was shown earlier this year at the Geneva Auto Salon, but expect to pay even more for that than the hardtop Regera. e

Z ENGINE: 5.0-litre twin turbo V-8 plus three electric motors.

Z TRANSMISSION: Direct drive.

Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 2.7-seconds.

Z TOP SPEED: 410 km/h.

Z I LIKED: Astonishing performance that shames just about every rival. The cars are hand-built using superb materials like carbon fibre and exotic metals. The used car market indicates that some Koenigseggs can actually gain in value over time because of their rarity.

Z I DIDN’T LIKE: Hugely expensive, but these cars are not built to a price, nor in large quantities.

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Bugatti Chiron, Pagani Huayra, Ferrari F60 America.

Lamborghini Veneno.

Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Someone with very large amounts of cash to lavish on one of the world’s ultimate exotic cars. A sports car buyer who must have a car with unmatched performance and superlative technology wrapped up in a body with outstanding elegance of design.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Limited production, so acquiring one is a challenge.

Prices start at around €2 million.

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2017 / 51

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p the focus CULTURE HISTORY FEATURES CELEBS INTERVIEWS HUMOUR

54

El Gordo

60

Luxury Brands

68

Wonderful Watches by Rolex

72

Spanish Water Dogs

74

Human Rights Day

78

Audrey Hepburn

80

Alejandro Hermann

WE TURN OUR EYE TO THE MOST SPECIAL THINGS ABOUT THE FESTIVE SEASON: THE BIGGEST LOTTERY EXTRAVAGANZA IN SPAIN – EL GORDO, THE ESSENCE OF LUXURY WITH FAMOUS BRANDS, AND GIFT IDEAS BY ROLEX. WE ALSO PROFILE ICONIC TALENT, AUDREY HEPBURN, AND TALK WITH PROLIFIC ARTIST, ALEJANDRO HERMANN.

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p THE FOCUS el gordo

SANTA

EL GORDO It’s Spain’s Santa Claus for adults, delivering sack-loads of cash to thousands of lucky winners three days before Christmas and transforming pauper pueblos into millionaires-villes overnight. Belinda Beckett discovers why there’s more than a fat chance of a payout in El Gordo, the democratic lottery that reflects the true spirit of Christmas.

HOW IT WORKS It’s complicated!

As jackpot prizes go, €4million doesn’t sound like a big deal until you realise there’s more than one.

The Spanish Christmas Lottery prints 100,000 tickets with five-digit codes ranging from 00000-99999. But

each ticket is duplicated in multiple series, depending on expected demand. This year, there will be 170 series. That means, if all the series are sold there will be 170 jackpot prizes with a total worth of over half a billion euros: €4m x 170 = €680m.

And there ‘s much more to win, including: 2nd, 3rd , 4th and 5th prizes – worth €1.25m, €500.000, €200.000 and €60.000 respectively and all multiplied by up to 170; thousands of €1.000 prizes known as la Pedrea (literally ‘the pebble-avalanche’);

and special prizes for various permutations of the big winning tickets, such as having the same first three numbers or the last two. Even if you only match the final number of the jackpot ticket, you get your money back.

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I

f you thought the Spanish didn’t celebrate Christmas you’re overlooking El Gordo, the biggest prize pool in the world worth a staggering €2.38 billion this year.

In a country where lotteries are almost a religion, the ‘Big One’ – literally, ‘the fat one’ – is more greatly anticipated than the chubby chap in the red suit for its democratic jackpot payouts which reward the many rather than the few.

Tickets go on sale in July and with 170 jackpot prizes worth €4 million each, 170 second prizes of €1.25 million each and an avalanche of smaller prizes (see How it Works), El Gordo is Spain’s own secular miracle at Christmas, although these days it’s taxed.

That miracle is steeped in ritual and pageantry with a format that has barely changed in over two centuries. Spain started lotteries in 1763 as a means of financing wars and helping the poor. El Gordo, the first Christmas edition which began as a fundraiser for orphans, was established by Spain’s Cortes parliament

in 1812 while it was based in Cádiz.

That makes it the second oldest lotto in the world, after the Dutch Staatsloterij, continuously played through three years of Civil War and 35 years of dictatorship.

Indeed, Franco’s brother won fourth prize.

Today the December 22 payout continues to offer cash-strapped families hope of prosperity. Although each ticket costs a whopping €200, most people chip in with friends and workmates to buy a decimo (one tenth of a ticket). Every ticket is perforated into 10 tear-apart sub-tickets, each entitling the holder to 10 per cent of the prize money. An outlay of €20 for the chance of a €400,000 windfall if your number wins the jackpot can’t be bad!

The chances of hitting that jackpot – El Gordo, from which the lottery takes its nickname – are 1 in 100.000 (0.001%) compared to 1 in 116,531,800 (0.0000000086%) of winning top prize in the EuroMillions (source: Wikipedia).

No wonder some 98 per cent of Spanish adults indulge in a flutter.

GUIRI GAMBLERS A tongue-in-cheek video called The Guiris heralded the launch of El Gordo this summer as tickets went on sale across 11,000 outlets nationwide. But pink paunches and socks worn with sandals are very much in evidence; foreigners may not be flattered by the clichéd image it projects!

The action portrays guiris of all shapes and sizes, ages and levels of spoken Spanish working out on Benidorm beach, line dancing at the disco and dreaming of how they’d spend their El Gordo money.

“Esse piso, no the big one on top”, chime a pair of cossie-clad silver surfers, pointing out a penthouse in their best Spanglish. “Yo, discotequa y todo el día fiesta,” growls a Russian buried up to his neck in sand; another Brit in a Panama hat boasts of buying the entire beach. The sinister music suggests that the Spanish better get to the lottery shop before the foreigners buy up all the tickets and half of Spain too, with their winnings.

It may not be far from the truth. Guiris have been buying into El Gordo in increasing numbers since ticket sales went online, with people from 140 countries now snapping up a chance to share in Spain’s Christmas miracle.

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2017 / 55

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On the morning of the draw, the eyes and ears of everyone over 18 are focused on their smart phones, waiting to see if their numbers will come up. Millions tune in to the public Sorteo de Navidad, a televised musical extravaganza that’s nothing like the X Factor. Two golden drums filled with gold laser-printed balls take centre stage at Madrid’s Teatro Real, where pupils from the city’s San Ildefonso School sing out the numbers and corresponding prize values as the balls are drawn. Yep, they actually sing – a relentless numeric litany lasting well over three hours due to the large number of prizes.

Covered by national radio too, what starts out sounding like a coded Gregorian chant reaches screeching pitch as the top jackpot prize is announced above the general euphoria. The ‘singing’ has been going on for over 200 years, since San Ildefonso was an orphanage.

Girls have been allowed to join in since 1984.

The schmaltzy November TV advertising campaign is a more recent ritual. The 2013 offering starred diva Montserrat Caballé and pop star Raphael singing tacky lottery lyrics to the tune of You Were Always on My Mind – the most parodied El Gordo commercial of all time.

But last year’s tale about a grandmother from Asturias who mistakenly thinks she’s got the winning ticket was a real tear-jerker that notched up over three million views on YouTube.

In the real world, there are scores of heart-warming stories of how the prize money has made a difference.

In 2011, the tiny drought-ravaged farming community of Sodeto in Huesca won El Gordo, with all but one of its 250 residents collecting sums ranging from €100.000 to €1 million each. The odd man out was a Greek living on the edge of town but he benefited indirectly, making a documentary about it all.

Last year’s winning El Gordo jackpot number

Montserrat Caballé and Raphael

AUSPICIOUS ANDALUCÍA

Z ANDALUCIA IS THE SECOND LUCKIEST REGION IN SPAIN IN WHICH TO BUY A CHRISTMAS LOTTERY TICKET, AFTER MADRID. Z ITS LOTTERY SHOPS HAVE PRODUCED JACKPOT WINNERS 59 TIMES IN THE LAST TWO CENTURIES, TYING WITH CATALONIA AND BEATEN ONLY

BY THE CAPITAL, WHICH HAS PRODUCED 79 EL GORDO WINNERS. Z THE LEAST LUCKY REGIONS ARE LA RIOJA (3 WINS), AND CEUTA AND MELILLA WHICH HAVE NEVER CELEBRATED AN EL GORDO WIN. Z HOWEVER CONSIDERING THEIR LUCKY TRACK RECORD, ANDALUSIANS DON’T SPLASH THE CASH LIKE THEIR COMPATRIOTS. LAST YEAR THEY SPENT A FRUGAL €46,08 PER CAPITA – SOME WAY BEHIND THE NATIONAL AVERAGE OF €63,80 EUROS. Z CITIZENS OF CASTILLA Y LEÓN INHABITANTS SPLURGED THE MOST LAST YEAR, PARTING WITH A WHOPPING €96,81 APIECE.

Spain’s Christmas lottery draw honours two centuries of tradition

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PRICE FROM 1.680.000€

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In 2015, an impoverished Senegalese refugee who had travelled to Spain by boat from Morocco scooped a €400.000 share of the jackpot prize. He had lost his job as a vegetable picker in Almeria’s greenhouses and was living on less than €5 a day. “I want to give thanks to Spaniards and the Spanish government for rescuing me when I was in the sea,” he said after his life-changing windfall.

And, last year, El Gordo showered crisishit Pinos Puente in Granada with euros from heaven. The town of 13,000 had rampant unemployment but struck it lucky with the second winning number, which paid out €32.2 million. As residents took to the streets in celebration, the Mayor told camera crews and journalists: "It is a lot of money for a town that has been punished hard. The prize money was widely distributed; it went to many families that really needed it."

As licensed lottery outlets tend to sell a select few numbers, it’s quite common for entire communities to win en masse. Although tickets can be acquired online, some families have bought the same five-digit number for years, travelling across the country to make their purchase. Others like to buy their ticket from one of Spain’s ‘lucky’ shops.

Doña Manolita, off Madrid’s Puerta de Sol, is a popular point of pilgrimage, with queues stretching around the block as the big draw

approaches. Founded in 1904 and said to be one of the luckiest lottery shops in Spain, as local legend has it Doña Manolita didn’t sell many winning tickets until she made a pilgrimage to Virgen del Pilar in Zaragoza to pray for a change of fortune. The saint clearly obliged.

Meanwhile, La Bruixa d'Or has taken full advantage of its location – the mountain town of Sort whose name means ‘luck’ in Catalan – to rack up the highest lottery sales in Spain. The owner has built an entire marketing campaign around Sort, with a witches’ fiesta and a golden witch statue in the shop doorway which customers are invited to touch with their ticket for extra luck.

Lucky witches or not, with odds of 6.5 to 1 that you’ll win something, this lottery is a no-brainer. But, you’ve got to be in it to win it so don’t forget to buy your decimo. Who knows, you could be among the thousands ho-ho-hoing their way to the bank this year to collect an early present from Santa El Gordo.

© Barcex CC BY-SA Wikimedia commons Golden opportunity in a town called ‘Luck’

EL GORDO GOSPEL

Z WINNING TICKET Lightening can strike twice, so take note that last year’s jackpot El Gordo ticket number was 66513. The most repeated endings of winning tickets have been 85 and 57, which have fallen six times; 64 and 75 (5 times) and 95 (4 times); but unlucky 13 had never come up until last year.

Z EVERYONE’S A WINNER... Almost! El Gordo can create up to 390 millionaires at a time and it’s possible to win up to seven times on a single ticket. (Source: European Lottery Guild) Z GAMBLING HABITS El Gordo numbers are often chosen for their special significance. In 2009, tickets numbered 25609 were heavily sought-after as they formed the date of Michael Jackson's death.

Z TAXING TIMES Crisis-hit Spain taxed all lotteries for the first time in 2013, and 20 percent is now levied on prizes of over €2.500. Meanwhile, the cash split on lottery ticket sales is 70% for lottery prizes, 30% for the Treasury. No wonder it’s said that lotteries are the poor man’s tax!

Z LOSERS’ MANTRA El Gordo gamers are famously philosophical: After the draw's done, it's customary for non-winners to console themselves with the platitude ‘It's health that really matters.’

Z DON’T FORGET EL NIÑO The lottery drawn on January 6 to coincide with Epiphany and Three Kings Day, started under Franco in 1941, is a second chance for players who lucked out at Christmas. Although the prize pool can’t match El Gordo’s (€630 million this year) there’s a better chance of winning, with 3:1 odds. e

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p THE FOCUS luxury

THE ESSENCE OF

LUXURY

The luxury brand is a phenomenon with greater resonance and importance than ever, yet it is something that has been with us for a long time. Indeed, one can generally say that the more illustrious the provenance of a brand, the greater is its appeal. The word ‘luxury’ is greatly overused and abused, for such is the sense of value, uniqueness and exclusivity evoked by it that everyone would like to be associated with the term, even when not exactly satisfying the standards implied. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ THE MECHANICS OF LUXURY What makes something truly luxurious is a rather poorly defined concept of desirability and privilege that we can’t readily quantify as much as we can sense it. We would all agree that Bentley, Ferrari, Chanel and Dior represent luxury, but ask someone to establish a precise dividing line supported by a clear rationale and they will mostly struggle to do so.

Luxury is therefore all about an

experience – an experience that makes those who receive it feel special. From an economic point of view it takes the utility derived from a product or service to the next level, extending well beyond need fulfilment and pleasure to the realms of the rare and beautiful – with all the implications this has for price elasticity of demand.

We prize experiences that are both pleasurable, regarded as being of quality

and those that are rare. The measure with which the experience can be replaced or reproduced has an affect on its desirability, and therefore its price. Naturally, not everybody can afford the greater luxuries, and in limiting consumption to a select few, the exclusivist cost factor reduces supply output and thereby further enhances both the sense of exclusivity, or luxury, and the accompanying price tag.

Bentley, the other Rolls Royce

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Dior has captured the essence of elegance in the modern era

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The rarity of classic cars makes them a prime luxury collectible

ACQUIRING ‘LUXURY’ STATUS Suffice it to say that if you find yourself in this position as the producer of a luxury good or purveyor of luxury services, you are certainly on to a good thing.

Joining the club, so to speak, is certainly possible, but not easy. Much of the aura surrounding luxury and privilege is woven into having a rich and illustrious past, as is reflected in the fact that many an exclusive brand will proudly indicate since when it has been in operation or been in commission to royalty.

Even though the world is changing and younger generations are shifting snob value towards brands that represent the pinnacle of modern designer chic or avant-garde technology, classic brands with a rich tradition and history are still very much worth their weight in gold.

Why? Because they make people, and in particularly those relatively new to the trappings of financial wealth, feel like they have arrived. Even the rich exhibit herd patterns, and at the end of the day doing well is as much about projecting success as it is about rewarding yourself with the pleasures that money can buy – sometimes even more.

And so the likes of Hermès, Lalique and Rolls Royce build upon a rich pedigree, as do many of the wine- and Champagne-making châteaux, the finest Savile Row tailors and those who offer many of the world’s most hotly desired luxuries. The reason such brands retain an edge is because, love Apple and Tesla as we do, modern marques simply don’t have the mystique and elegance that those from another age carry. Born of an age of plastic and often forgettable massproduction, the new luxury brand fights an uphill battle against an age associated with aristocracy, true privilege, studied refinement and exquisite craftsmanship.

Luxury has become younger, brighter and more coquettish in recent times

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Grand stores in top locations are the stuff of luxury brands

…AND KEEPING IT

Galleries Lafayette in Paris, so many brands under one roof

But this does not mean that it is a lost battle. Many a new or relatively novel brand has risen to dizzy heights of perceived value and desirability, but far fewer have stood the test of time.

To achieve fame and success is hard enough, to maintain it so very much more difficult. How should one go about it without attempting to be a ‘faux classical’ brand? By embracing the contemporary exclusivity and quality of the product or service in question. The latter may be as modern as it likes as long as it manages to also capture that elusive sense of style, sophistication and exquisite quality that classical brands abound in.

Fine examples are handmade modern sports cars such as the Spyker, the Pagani or the Koenigsegg. Harbingers of modern technology, these brands are essentially new, pioneering in their thinking and often not at all classical in their styling, yet they are ultimately regarded as examples of luxury because they combine the two most important ingredients: opulent quality and rarity.

And with this comes a cost, for not only is such a vehicle sumptuously beautiful, made of the finest handcrafted madeto-measure materials, personalised and manufactured in small quantities, but it is also exclusively expensive.

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essential magazine is the longest established publication dedicated to Marbella’s opulent lifestyle, mixed with lively features from all around the world. Always in great demand, we continuously strive to produce quality content that will inform and entertain you. Available free from all the best commercial locations and in luxury hotel bedrooms along the Costa del Sol, we present your brand to a high-end market, benefitting from the unrivalled prestige and recognition we have achieved over the last 18 years. Don’t miss out!

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Luxury brands are now visible in large cities across the world

To maintain such hard-won status is never easy, and more difficult today than it was in somewhat more straightforwardly stuffy times. Today much more money is in younger hands or in the possession of people who follow more contemporary styles and trends.

Simply appealing to old sentiments of class and style is no longer enough, so to truly establish a brand among the rich firmament of stellar names like Bulgari, Bugatti and Balmain, one has to evoke an age-old sense of quality and prestige while understanding the dynamics of the market and the winds of change that are forever sweeping through what used to be dusty cupboards.

Good luck, for in an ever more luxuryconscious world with a rapidly growing and internationalising High Net Worth population, the rewards for success in the luxury sector are certainly worth pursuing. And while you’re at it, pursuing the hallowed status of ‘luxury brand’, don’t forget that what used to be a largely European-American club is now increasingly international in its make-up – so be aware of the nuances in what is considered to be ultimate luxury in different parts of the world and you’re well on your way to success. e

More than most, Louis Vuitton is a brand associated with wealth and luxury

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If you need inspiration as to the perfect present for a man or woman with discerning taste, the one choice that is always the right one, is Rolex. We bring you a selection of their latest designs.

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OYSTER PERPETUAL DAY-DATE 40 WITH AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT, ROSE GOLD CASE AND BRACELET, GREEN DIAL, ROMAN NUMBERS, 100M WATERPROOF, SAPPHIRE GLASS, 40MM CASE

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OYSTER PERPETUAL LADY-DATEJUST WITH AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT, GOLD/STEEL CASE AND BRACELET, 10 DIAMONDS, CHAMPAGNE DIAL COLOUR, 100M WATERPROOF, SAPPHIRE GLASS AND A 28MM CASE

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p THE FOCUS spanish water dog

THE SPANISH WATER DOG WORDS CRISTINA FALKENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK

dog'. The old Spanish Water Dog was a favourite and it lies at the origin of other breeds such as Poodles, all Spaniels, and the modern SWD we know today.

It’s clearly related to the stunning Portuguese Water Dog, the smaller Italian Lagotto Romagnolo, the American and the Irish Water Spaniel and the larger French Barbet, 'Barbeta' being a name often given to SWDs in Spain.

The three distinct phenotypes are: (i) the Cantabrian Young Juan Carlos I Water Dog, with a Spanish smaller and Water Dog lighter in colour and which became a new breed on March 22, 2011; (ii) the one found in the marshes of western

Andalusia, with its coat of long, thin cords; and (iii) the largest group, the one from the mountains of southern Andalusia, stronger and bigger in build.

Why SWDs should be called ‘turcos’ is debated. We do know they were used at the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19th centuries to help load the Turkish ships that carried the flocks of Spanish Merino sheep to Australia.

Similar dogs may be found today off the Turkish coast.

Versatile, hard-working and intelligent as they are, SWDs have traditionally been used as gundogs, in herding or assisting fishermen, happy to swim the ropes to shore and help with the nets.

Since the 1980s © casareal.es

I

t was at a canine exhibition in San Pedro de Alcántara in 1980 that a lady with a dog with a curly coat turned up, claiming hers belonged to a native Andalusian breed. The Judge, a member of the Royal Spanish Kennel Club and a couple of the organisers, took good note as they remembered having seen quite a few of those dogs around both in Ubrique (Cádiz) and the countryside around Seville.

They took it upon themselves to research the breed and by 1983 the Ministry of Agriculture had acknowledged its existence. At the 1985 Madrid dog show, 47 SWDs were presented, of which 40 complied with breed standards and were inscribed. It wouldn’t be until 1999 though, that the World Canine Federation recorded the breed under Group VIII ‘retrievers’, Section 3, ‘water dogs’.

As early as around 1,000 AD there are references to 'a wooly

though, they have seen a revival as pets and are used in bomb and narcotics detection, in rescues, and as therapy dogs.

SWDs are medium-sized with males measuring 44 to 50 cm at the withers and weighing around 18 – 22 kg. Females measure 40 – 45 cm and weight between 14 to 18 kg.

There is a tradition of docking their tails (now forbidden) though they are often born without a wagger. Eyes vary from hazel and green to dark brown. Coats range from white to black and shades of beige and brown, and fade if exposed to plenty sunlight. White hairs placed sporadically and without pattern aren’t a sign of graying or ageing but part of the natural coat.

Bi-colours are frequent but tri-colours are not acceptable nor are black or brown combined with tan (should you be concerned with breed standards).

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ANTI-ALLERGIC, NONSHEDDING DOGS

TEMPERAMENT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH

All dogs shed and nothing such as an anti-allergic dog exists. However SWDs shed far less than other breeds as the life-cycle of each strand is much longer.

What causes the allergy is a protein that is found in cats, dogs and other mammals, producing less when neutered. Once secreted, it stays on the hair, so the less they shed, the better.

If you have an allergy, Bayer’s Vetriderm applied to the animal’s coat once a week will help in 80 per cent of cases.

Under normal conditions SWDs require minimal grooming. They shouldn’t be brushed, combed, blow-dryed or groomed into fancy shapes. Just give them a bath whenever necessary and remove their coat twice a year, preferably with scissors. The look is natural, rustic.

A mild, breed-specific diluted and shaken shampoo such as MD10, Crown Royale or other should be followed by towel drying your SWD via blotting rather than rubbing.

Don’t massage the coat in circles, rather run your fingers through it, to avoid matting. Allow to air-dry and spray with a bit of texturiser, defining the curls by gently squeezing them with your hands.

SWDs have fine skin so make sure you leave about four cm length.

If severely matted, you’ll need to clip and then work on their coat with a dematting metal comb. Wearing a collar at all times may cause matting around the neck.

Puppies must have their coat removed completely at seven – eight months age, to allow the adult curls to develop. They can be left to grow naturally or twisted into cords some 12 – 15 cm length. Plucking out the sub-hair growing close to the skin and twisting each cord is done by hand.

SWDs are working dogs with strong herding, hunting and guarding instincts. Extremely versatile, they are loyal, diligent and affectionate, but they are not a lapdog. They tend to be a bit wary of strangers and though they don’t always show their shyness, they’re happier if given

space and time to figure new people out first.

SWDs are the self-appointed guardians of their homes and will choose one person as their boss.

Upon first arrival they will follow you everywhere for the two or three weeks it takes them to settle in.

Early socialisation with children and other pets is important.

Dominance and territorial issues are best dealt with by showing them who is in charge. They are obedient and easy to train with positive methods. Owning a well-trained, motivated SWD is undoubtedly a pleasure.

Well-balanced, they are happy, loving dogs that make excellent companions, but they are an active breed and should be both physically and mentally stimulated, by offering them new learning experiences which avoid boredom.

Robust and athletic, SWDs require a good hour's exercise every day, included swimming and diving whenever possible. They are strong and enduring yet agile, with sturdy hind legs for a good jump.

Developed over many centuries of natural selection, SWDs are in general a healthy breed. One of the most common health issues, though is hip dysplasia, an abnormal development of the bone at the hip joint, often seen in other breeds too and for which good medication and surgical procedures exist.

Progressive retinal atrophy causing bilateral degeneration of the retina, glaucoma and allergies have been reported too. More serious is congenital hypothyroidism, which is overall fatal.

Should you wish to own a Spanish Water Dog you might seriously want to consider adopting one from any of the rescue centres in Málaga or Cádiz. There are many lovely SWDs out there waiting for a home. Make sure you have them tested at least for filariasis (heartworm), erlichia, anaplasma and leishmaniasis, all of which can be treated or at least kept under control if caught on time.

Should you opt to buy your SWD, make sure it comes from a reputable breeder and not a puppy mill. Don’t be shy about asking to meet the parents and visiting the actual premises. e

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p THE FOCUS human rights

Human Rights Day is held every year on the 10th of December. More than just another United Nations formality, it recognises the Declaration of Human Rights – a building block of freedom and democracy upon which our modern liberties are based. We take these for granted most of the time, but in a world where human rights are by no means a given, it is worth reflecting upon them and celebrating that in our part of the globe, at least, we have come this far.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

Human trafficking and enslavement is actually growing around the world

CELEBRATING

HUMANITY

T

here are many official and symbolic international days on the annual calendar.

While they mean well and aim to engage the world’s populace in an environment of fraternity and solidarity – or indeed to rally them around important causes – most pass us by as the somewhat superfluous creations of distant and at times self-serving bureaucrats.

International Human Rights Day sounds like a classic example, yet it is worth reflecting upon and even revelling in, for on the 10th of December each year we pause to feel grateful for the liberties that we in the West enjoy, while also taking note that in anno 2017, a large part of humanity continues to be deprived of freedom, dignity and the means for what we have come to consider ‘normal’ existence.

More specifically, the event observed every 10th of December commemorates the adoption of the Universal

Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly on the same day in 1948 – at the birth of the organisation whose very purpose is to bring the world together in close cooperation. While it has not always been capable of avoiding, ending or even dealing with international conflict, the UN has done much to foster international mediation and cooperation, and to this day remains the best tool we have on a global scale. In fact, the very existence of a declaration of human rights is a victory in itself, for it was the first time in known human history that mankind acknowledged and guaranteed the rights of all to the pursuit of peace, freedom, happiness and prosperity.

This is significant because it marks the desire to evolve into a new stage of civilisation after many thousands of years of violence, exploitation and misery.

The human story is one of war

and of waste, but moments such as these shine as brightly with promise as the greatest advances in technological and medical know-how. The day itself is celebrated on all levels, from grassroots awareness at schools to community activities, municipal and regional events, to high-level conferences and commemorations. The UN Prize in the Field of Human Rights and the Nobel Peace Prize are traditionally awarded on the 10th of December to mark the occasion, but even if you’re not on the guest list for the ceremony in Oslo it is worth taking a moment to be grateful for the liberties we have come to take for granted.

Though first proclaimed in 1950, Human Rights Day remains as relevant now as then, as multiple millions are still trapped in dictatorial systems, deprived of human dignity and the basic conditions for a normal, productive life,

while even on the fringes of our society, poverty, slavery and human trafficking are on the increase. It sometimes feels like we are slipping back rather than moving forward, so we owe it to the coming generations as well as ourselves to continue to promote the universal principles of liberty and freedom, not least because they foster peace and stability. Though understandably embattled in many ways, globalisation in its positive form has contributed greatly to this process, and remains perhaps the most powerful tool of all to ensure the ultimate dream: a peaceful world.

The declaration of 1948 regards this as “…a common standard of achievement for all peoples and nations,” towards which institutions and societies should “strive by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance.” e

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p THE FOCUS people

Audrey Hepburn will probably always be remembered as the beautiful young woman standing outside Tiffany’s with a pastry in her hand and her heart on her sleeve, dreaming of everything the city of New York could offer her but ultimately, desperately seeking someone who would love her for more than her ‘it girl’ status. Audrey was so much more than the epitome of elegance and glamour, with interests in the scope of charity as much as the arts.

By the time she quit Hollywood to invest all her energy in working for UNICEF, she was far more interested in the stuff that unites humanity than the materialism that divides it.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

WHY OUR HEARTS WILL ALWAYS BEAT FOR

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AUDREY THE WORLD CITIZEN Audrey Hepburn was born in 1929 in Brussels, to a father of BritishAustrian descent and a Dutch baroness. Owing to her father’s work, she travelled frequently, picking up five different languages (Dutch, English, French, Spanish and Italian). In the 1930s, her parents became involved with the British Union of Fascists, her father moving to London in 1935 to work closely with this group, while Audrey and her mother continued to live in Brussels, moving to London in 1937 (her parents divorced the following year). She described the separation from her father as “the most traumatic event of my life,” and indeed, it took her many years to connect with him, locating him in the 1960s in Ireland through the Red Cross.

SURVIVING THE NAZI INVASION When Britain declared War on Germany in 1939, Audrey’s mother sought to bring her daughter to ‘neutral territory’, Arnhem in the Netherlands, where she honed her natural ballet skills under renowned teacher, Winja Marova. However, the Nazis invaded the Netherlands the following year, causing the family great trauma. Audrey’s uncle, Otto, was executed for allegedly forming part of the resistance movement and her half brother was sent to work in a German labour camp.

She recalls the grave effect the Nazi presence had on her: “Had we known that we were going to be occupied for five years, we might have all shot ourselves. We thought it might be over next week… six months… next year… that’s how we got through”.

AUDREY AND THE RESISTANCE Audrey, always on the side of the underdog, worked alongside the Dutch resistance, carrying secret messages in her ballet slippers. One day, she barely escaped with her life after being pulled over to the side of the road by Nazi officers, then set free. She also performed ballet to help raise funds for the resistance, in a series of silent events – the crowd was always instructed not to

clap, for fear of raising the suspicion of German soldiers.

When she was 16, she volunteered as a nurse at a Dutch hospital, treating many wounded soldiers hurt in the Battle of Arnhem. One of her patients was a young British soldier called Terence Young – little did Audrey know that 20 years down the track, he would be directing her in the dramatic film, Wait Until Dark.

These were hard times for Audrey, who, like so many other Dutch residents, had limited mobility and therefore, scarce amounts of food. Audrey’s family reportedly resorted to drastic measures, eating flowers and using tulip bulbs to make flour for bread… her younger son, Luca Dotti, would later write that his mother’s lithe frame was due to the fact that during “the time she most needed nourishment, she didn’t have enough food. She would spend entire days in bed with a book, thus hoping to expel from her mind obsessive thoughts about food.” By the time WWII ended, Audrey weighed a mere 40kg. She also suffered from related maladies, including asthma, anemia and a dangerous type of edema.

FROM LONDON TO HOLLYWOOD After the liberation, Audrey attended ballet school in London on a scholarship, and later started modelling. In 1948, she was headhunted by a producer and appeared with a small part in the European film, Dutch in Seven Lessons. She moved to America to build her acting career, landing her breakthrough role in Roman Holiday in 1953. Starring opposite Gregory Peck, she played a European princess who, bored by her structured life, takes off for a day in Rome alongside a handsome American journalist. The film was a huge hit and earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress.

Audrey was officially admitted into the Big Leagues, signing a sevenfilm contract with Paramount and taking home a Tony Award the following year for her performance in the fantasy play, Ondine, on Broadway.

Audrey was no less than riveting in Funny Face (1957), co-starring Fred Astaire. She was delightful as the bookshop clerk and intellectual who unwittingly takes on a job as a model, despite the fact that she has this to say about the modelling industry: “It is chichi, and an unrealistic approach to selfimpressions as well as economics”.

SAILING ALONG MOON RIVER There were many more parts, nominations and awards, but Audrey was still waiting for the role of her life: that of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), in which she starred opposite George Peppard. Something about her performance as a young woman trying to establish her own importance in a city that chewed up and spat out many of her contemporaries was so emotionally charged, that anyone who has seen and fallen in love with this film will surely find it hard to hold back a tear upon listening to its defining song: Moon River. Funnily enough, she was not Truman Capote’s first choice to play the character he had created – he preferred Marilyn Monroe, but the latter declined because her acting coach advised her against playing a “lady of the evening.” Another interesting anecdote involves the highly praised Danish she tucks into while gazing at the gleaming goods in Tiffany’s – Audrey actually hated this sweet, preferring to indulge with ice-cream.

Audrey would continue to delight her fans in classics such as Charade (1963), in which she plays a young widow harassed by a band of criminals in search of a fortune her husband has stolen; and How to Steal a Million (1966), co-starring Peter O’Toole and Eli Wallach – Audrey plays an art thief forced to steal a statue from a Paris Museum to conceal her father’s art forgeries.

And who can forget My Fair Lady (1964) – never would there be

an Eliza Doolittle in need of so little changing! Throughout her career Audrey won so many awards that she is one of only 12 people in the world to belong to the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) club.

GOODBYE HOLLYWOOD In the late 1960s, Audrey chose to dedicate her time to her family. She had two children, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, with husband, Mel Ferrer, in 1960, and Luca Dotti with second husband, Andrea Dotti, in 1970, but suffered five miscarriages along the way. Charitable pursuits were another passion. She had been involved with UNICEF long before her retirement, but later in life, she was able to dedicate more of her time to this beloved cause.

Regarding her work for children, she said, “I speak for those children who cannot speak for themselves, children who have absolutely nothing but their courage and their smiles, their wits and their dreams.”

In 1994, the Audrey Hepburn Children’s Fund was founded in New York to continue her efforts to help abused and suffering children around the world. Today, she is remembered as much for her brilliance and beauty on the screen, as she is for the big impact she had on so many lives. She certainly crossed that Moon River in style. e

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p THE FOCUS people

ALEJANDRO

HERMANN Alejandro Hermann is one of Marbella’s best-loved artists, known above all for his spiritual portraits of Buddhist children, displayed in various galleries and finding their most fitting home in the interiors of the serene Shanti-Som retreat in Monda. The fact that many readers may think these works represent the gamut of his style and range, reveals why the artist was right in deciding to open a brand new gallery/studio, smack bang on the Golden Mile, in the well known Tembo building. The new gallery will reveal the wealth of styles, subjects and materials he employs, but also unveil his very latest collection: extreme close-up portraits of beautiful Chinese women, on large canvases, which arrest our attention and invite us to delve into the profound Asian culture. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

“

There is something about the eyes of the people of the Asian countries I have visited that has always fascinated me. There is so much beyond the surface; not everything is as it seems. The eyes of the children you encounter in places like Tibet… these people are so poor yet they are filled with wisdom,” says Alejandro, who is working on a portrait when I arrive at his studio to meet him. The size of the canvas is grand – 3 x 1.5m to be exact. “This painting will be one of 12 in the new collection.” On the day of my visit, he has just started painting one of two canvases which stand next to each other, both with penciled drawings of his beautiful subjects – one a famous Chinese actress and the other, of a model. The striking eyes, prominent cheekbones and full lips are sensual and inviting. Alejandro has

just begun working on the eyes, I note; from up-close, the number of layers of colour is astounding. What appears in a photograph as a brown eye, comes to life with blacks, browns, blues and a profusion of hues we would never imagine. “There are so many colours in skin – including green!” Alejandro informs me, smiling and warm as he is throughout our interview.

Alejandro began painting Asian subjects over 30 years ago – before that, his themes ranged from skies to children, close-ups of flowers, horses and a plethora of additional animals, including elephants and leopards. He is a fervent reader and his fascination with Asia began through an encounter with the work of Karl Dürckheim – a fervent Buddhist. “I began my journey into Buddhism then. I preferred the solitary path – meditating on my own;

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there was a time that Buddhism became fashionable and I wanted to steer clear of this movement. I began painting, inspired by Buddhist people and their teachings.”

Alejandro is thankful to Tibet for serving as a kind of geographical muse; he is currently working with a charity that seeks to help the impoverished people of this region and is also involved in a project alongside the Prime Minister of Somalia, in favour of children with autism. “I feel it is important to help those in need, especially children, who hold a special place in my heart.” In addition to being a prolific artist, after all, Alejandro has three beautiful daughters, aged 27, seven and five. His eldest, Jasmin, is a talented artist who produces stunning works, often with a pop

feel, while his youngest two are at school, and are also revealing artistic tendencies.

In case you thought Alejandro only gave life to figurative art, think again! In addition to working on his brand new portraits, he is also into concept art, in many ways inspired by the greats of abstraction – Mark Rothko, Cy Twombly, and Pierre Soulages. He is moved by Yves Klein’s vivid blue – which he pays homage to in a stunning ‘Venus de Milo’ painting. As I walk through his sizeable studio, I am surprised by the wide range of materials employed in his abstract works – everything from leaves to pigments, flowers, paint tubes, artists’ palettes, planks of wood, fabric and more.

Many of them are oxidised, lending a warm, aged, autumnal feel. Some

of the most stunning creations are made with pigments – I marvel at a representation of the female backbone, in mainly black and white with small touches of pink. Some works have large indentations, filled with wood or other materials.

Every piece is new, bursting with modernity, utterly original. A big surprise for someone who had only been acquainted with the artist’s Buddhist imagery.

Alejandro’s wide range of styles means that he has an audience for nearly every message he wishes to relay. Local institutions as well as international investors and even members of the royalty, are just a few owners of his paintings.

He is prolific, and I see during my visit that he is working on various compositions at once.

In addition to featuring his newest collections, his new Golden Mile gallery will also offer a highend framing service, featuring cutting edge technology and the very best quality materials. In his Tembo building studio, Alejandro hopes to reach a wider audience, to allow art lovers to witness his vast development over the years, his changing interests, and the brightly hued paintings that reveal a richer, infinitely more beautiful interior canvas. For in addition to being an artist, Alejandro is a humanist who is as fascinated by suffering as he is by acceptance, resilience and what to many in the Western world seems unattainable: happiness.

i www.alejandrohermann.com

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d the style

INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART DESIGN GARDENS FASHION

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A Stunning Villa in Sotogrande

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Christmas Décor by Laura Ashley

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Fashion by Hannibal Laguna

106 Hot Looks for Winter by Airfield

DISCOVER THE BEST OF SOTOGRANDE, LIVING IN AN EXCLUSIVE CONTEMPORARY VILLA DESIGNED BY ARK ARCHITECTS AND FURNISHED BY PATRICIA DARCH. FILL YOUR HOME WITH LIGHT THROUGH LAURA ASHLEY’S CHRISTMAS COLLECTION, AND DAZZLE IN HEDONISTIC FASHION BY HANNIBAL LAGUNA.

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d THE STYLE decor A contemporary interpretation of luxury living

The villa offers a sense of arrival

The almost liquid feel of interconnected spaces

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SOTOGRANDE DESIGN FIT

n e e u Q r o g n i K a for

Rooftop chill-out in style

21st century sophistication has certainly arrived in Sotogrande in the form of this beautifully styled and sumptuously fitted home. This stunning villa is a top example of the kind of contemporary homes being created in Sotogrande now, but it has the added advantage of enjoying a location near the beach in the area known as Kings and Queens. Dubbed this way because of its peaceful environment (leafy streets are named after prominent Spanish monarchs), this is still regarded as the best address in Sotogrande – close to sandy beaches, the Guadiaro River estuary and wetlands, and the prestigious Real Club de Golf Sotogrande. Famous beach and racquet clubs, as well as the internationally renowned Santa María Polo Club and the charming marina are also just a short drive away. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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The villa is in the Kings & Queens area of Sotogrande

KINGS AND QUEENS It is in this privileged setting that Ark Architects were asked to design and build a state-of-the-art villa that would do its prized location proud. The brief was that it should be a modern home with a clear, uncluttered interior and easy open-plan flow to it in which outdoor views of the garden and sea – a special bonus in this mostly level area – would be incorporated into the living environment.

The indoor and outdoor areas blend into one the moment the sliding doors glide open and the glass frontage of the home also brings into focus little Zen corners of greenery that add a sense of calm and serenity to the villa.

The owners wanted a level, pristine lawn to envelop a property that flows out onto terraces and a sleek modern swimming pool from its ground floor living areas. Also on this level are the guest bedroom suites, designed to look and feel like those of a luxury resort, while the master bedroom and study are on the first floor and the lower floor level is given over to another independent suite and an entertainment area with a fully equipped gymnasium, sauna, games room and home cinema.

Gymnasium and sauna integrated into the entertainment suite

Classic Sotogrande elegance

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When lighting becomes art

Indoor and outdoor spaces blend and enhance one another

Murano table complements Jessica Darch art

DRESSED TO KILL Once the architects achieved this and delivered a stunning but as yet bare modern home, it was up to Patricia Darch and her team of designers and craftsmen and women to ensure this would be a villa ‘dressed to kill’. The décor too was to be a continuation of the modern, minimalist theme also seen in the architecture and layout, so the interior designers set out to create an ambience of comfort, style and refinement within the geometrical setting of the house. “The villa provided a white canvas with panoramic windows that brought in green and blue hues from the garden, sea and sky,” says Patricia, “so we used a combination of light tones and furniture in shades of grey, white and silver, with items in black highgloss lacquer for dramatic effect. The décor was further accentuated by modern artwork in greens and sea blues to complement it inside.”

Stylish ornaments in the entrance hall

Artwork that enlivens every living space

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Natural light and open spaces

PDI – Patricia Darch Interiors – has been based in Sotogrande for many years now and is a very well established name in the area. Like the architects of this project, her interior design studio is a recognised brand not just within Sotogrande but across the Costa del Sol, with projects that range from the Andalusian countryside to Marbella and Reserva de Higuerón. “We still regard Sotogrande as our home base though, so it is wonderful to work on a project like this in the heart of one of its most iconic residential areas.” High-quality minimalism was on the brief sheet, and that is what the client got, with beautifully styled, hand-picked furniture pieces and decorative items that add tone, texture and detail to a sleek and refined home.

The luxuriant soft furnishings are by Création Baumann and Zinc, with unique lounge, dining room and bedroom furniture by the likes of Cattelan Italia, Reflex, B&B Italia and Natuzzi standing out not just for their quality and modern styling but also for the sophisticated sculpted forms of chairs, fauteuils and tables. “We work with luxury brands from across Europe, but the main focus is on Italian furniture, and in this project you can see

Evocative art photography by Alexis de Vilar

why we love working with Natuzzi and B&B Italia so much.” Many of the items were also selected because of the rich textural finishing and gloss they add to the home’s interior, a process further emboldened with splashes of form and colour from a table with Murano glass legs.

The latter works in conjunction with the lively green and sea blue tones produced by the artwork of Jessica Darch, some of whose creations are backlit for a special vibrancy that also contributes to the somewhat liquid, ephemeral look of the villa’s décor. “There is a lot of glass, with shimmering water, shades of light, evocative textures and also the dramatic shapes of some of the stylised modern sculptures that adorn the house,” says Patricia. “Jessica’s work fits beautifully into this context and whether it is backlit or catches the light of the sun, these rare but powerful splashes of colour help to define this property.” Elegant black and white photographs

by Alexis de Vilar add a further touch of drama to a villa that appears sleek and minimalist at first glance but contains a world of detail waiting to be discovered within.

Modern chair design

Beautiful forms and textures add an extra dimension to the home’s décor

Bright artwork by Jessica Darch

Dress your home in modern styles and natural materials

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The independent lower floor apartment

“It was a great project to work on, not just as it’s such a stunning modern villa in a top Sotogrande location but also because, although there was a very clear brief, the owners gave us a lot of creative freedom to achieve the look they were after.” This indicates a high degree of confidence in Patricia and her team, which has been rewarded with what is likely to become a future classic in this area. A home made for enjoyment and entertaining, it is also available through Patricia Darch for holiday rentals starting with the 2018 season, so its comfort, style and sophistication, not to mention the location of this 21st century showpiece, will certainly be well appreciated throughout the year.

“Personal tastes and preferences, along with setting and budget, vary from case to case, but I think this project points the way forward in this area, where we combine open living spaces with panoramic views and the latest luxuries to redefine style and villa living in the new century.”

Modern bar in the entertainment area

i www.patriciadarch.com

Modern open-plan comfort

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d THE STYLE decor

GLASS ICICLE DECORATIONS

Marisa Cutillas brings you a tiny selection of items from Laura Ashley’s stunning Christmas 2017/2018 collection.

ELL HB

LEIG

ER S SILV

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

GLASS TEALIGHT HOLDER

ATH

WRE

ACRY LIC

TREE

by Laura Ashley

APPLE PAPERWEIGHT

WINTER BIRDS TEALIGHT HOLDER GR

EY

PO

M

PO

M

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W

i www.lauraashley.com

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Dainty details

d THE STYLE fashion

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Pastel inspirations AT THE MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK IN MADRID Hannibal Laguna stuns fashionable femmes with his glamorous, elegant dresses and gowns. We bring you some of his most irresistible designs. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

Laguna ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2017 / 95

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Touch of sparkle 96 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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Violets abloom ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2017 / 97

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Golden treasure 98 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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Oriental beauty i www.hannibal-laguna.com

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d THE STYLE fashion

Stunning custom-built motorbikes provided the perfect props for a new video featuring glam street fashion, shot on location at Marbella’s Hotel Puente Romano.

The production brought together the combined talents of Kamsyn, Pixel Perfect and Skyshooters and showcased hot outfits from Guess, jewellery from Ideal Joyeros, bikes

by Sbay Motor Co., and sunglasses from Óptica Banús. To view the video: www.essentialspotlight.com

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ROCK

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MODEL ANNA ROSEN PHOTOGRAPHER EMILE ISSA STYLING COLOR FETICHE HAIR & MAKEUP JACQUES DESSANGE

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i www.essentialspotlight.com www.guess.com www.idealjoyeros.com www.opticabanus.com

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d THE STYLE fashion

ROCKER CHICK Who said that winter meant bundling up in baggy clothing that hide our silhouettes? Airfield’s newest collection demonstrates how sexy winter can be when we show off our curves. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

AIRFIELD

AUTUMN/WINTER 2017

INTO THE BLUE

OCEANS IN WINTER

THE FUTURE IS NOW

COSY BUT CHIC

DECADENT DENIM

i www.airfield-onlineshop.com

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n the spa

PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA SCIENCE TREATMENTS HEALTH

110

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna

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Beauty Must-Haves

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In Pursuit of Happiness

118

Health News

120

Advances in Heart Surgery and Treatment

EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT RIHANNA’S NEW LINE, FENTY BEAUTY, DESIGNED FOR ABSOLUTELY ALL SKIN TYPES. READ UP ON THE LATEST BEAUTY AND HEALTH NEWS, AND DISCOVER WHY THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS IS WORTH EVERY TEAR SHED ALONG THE WAY.

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TWO EXPERTS FOR ALL YOUR DENTAL PROBLEMS Dr. Paul Arts specialised in porcelain veneers, lumineers and composite veneers He started working in 2007 with Emax ceramics for veneers and porcelain crowns which offer the best aesthetic and functional possibilities.

His 20 plus years of cooperation with his technician, Daan Huurman, guarantee predictable, top quality work. Apart from that, as a more affordable alternative, Paul developed great skills in applying composite veneers.

Dr. Anders Larsen

is specialized in dental implants and has more than 10 years of experience in the field of dental implantology with more than 1000 successful completed cases.

He works in the field of bone surgery and soft tissue management. Apart from dental implants he performs, sinus lifts, bone reconstruction, surgical extractions and gingival plastic.

Dr. Anders Larsen

Dental Implants Specialist Bone Reconstruction

Dr. Paul Arts

Consultant Cosmetic Dentistry Veneers / Crowns

Av. Ramรณn y Cajal, 7 - 29601 Marbella 0034 951 775 518 - Mรณvil : 670 770 455 info@oceanclinic.net - www.oceanclinic.net

New in Ocean Clinic

your Health & Beauty Clinic in Marbella

n THE SPA beauty

FENTY BEAUTY

by Rihanna © Debby Wong / Shutterstock.com

How the World’s Biggest Pop Star is Ready for Beauty Moguldom WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

R

ihanna is an artist who epitomises swagger, beauty and talent, like few other women of her generation. Dubbed a ‘powerhouse multihyphenate’ by the press, she is regularly hired to do much more than sing – she speaks at fashion conferences, appears on the cover of the world’s top fashion magazines (including Vogue), and is Creative Director of sportswear trailblazer, PUMA. She has collaborated with Dior, Manolo Blahnik and Chopard and recently appeared in hit film Valerian, stealing the show as an Valerian alien transformation and burlesque artist. Now, she has founded a new cosmetics brand, already a top seller, Fenty Beauty, featuring groundbreaking products that go way beyond the glamour associated with the name Rihanna.

In case you’re wondering why she chose this unique name, it’s because Fenty is Rihanna’s surname. She signed up for the new line last year with LVMH, which also produces make-up for Kat Von D and Marc Jacobs. The official launch of Fenty Beauty took place in September 2017.

Rihanna is a woman with a mission. When she founded Fenty

Beauty, she decided to set new standards and make beauty available for all. Thus, she launched 40 different shades of foundation – the darker tones sold superfast, revealing a big demand that was to a great extent, untapped, even in this day and age. On her social media pages, she interacted with her fans, saying, “Gotta’ represent for my girls and we come in all shades!

Especially my brown sisters… been left out too many times in the make-up world.” In addition to offering a varied line of cosmetics, Rihanna backs her passion for diversity in her choice of models, with everyone from Duckie Thot to Selena Forrest, Slick Woods and Halima Aden starring in her ads.

Stella McCartney once described Rihanna as “one of the coolest, hottest, most talented, most liked, most listened to, most followed, most impressive artists at work today.”

She may be influential, but she also knows how to listen. Take the case of illuminators, for instance. There are many great examples on the market, primarily BECCA’s Champagne Pop illuminating powder – Rihanna takes it up a step, with a golden illuminator that is so bright, it is almost 1980s in its brashness. The product is a tad more glittery that its counterparts,

but also more of a statement – this product is not for those who want a subtle glow.

Fenty Beauty products are also cruelty free. When asked if her products were tested on animals, she answered, “You calling me an animal? The company states that it is cruelty-free. We never test products on animals, nor allow suppliers to test on our behalf.”

‘What will this set me back?’ you may ask – the answer is, not a cent more than most other high-end but relatively affordable brands such as Urban Decay, Too Faced, Benefit, or Becca. Her Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, for instance, sells for €33, as does her super Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter. The products are worth it though, since a little bit goes a long way. The range includs a primer, brushes, makeup bar, blotting paper (go for the Invisimatte Blotting Powder, which is pricy at €31 but a truly amazing way to keep skin oil-free all day), lip gloss, and a portable touch-up brush. The number of items will surely grow over the next few months and since there are so many shades, we definitely recommend foregoing online shopping and heading to Sephora to find your perfect match. e

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s d n a h h t o b h t i w e f i l b a r g

E N J O Y T H E H I G H L I F E AT P U E N T E R O M A N O # P U E N T E L I F E 3 6 5 Every day is a new chapter. Your day will

night out. Spa and wellness facilities, open air

never be hard to fill with so many experiences

courtyard perfect for cocktails and catch-ups,

to enjoy. Relax by the pool overlooking the

award-winning botanical gardens, world famous

Mediterranean, raise your game with a morning

tennis courts and eleven restaurants all with

of golf, soak in the sun over a refreshing drink

distinct, unique menus. Puente Romano has

on the terrace or pamper yourself before a big

something for everyone.

EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN hotel @ pu en teromano.com | +34 952 820 900 | puent e r o m a no . c o m PUENTE ROMANO MARBELLA Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n · 29602 · Marbella · Spain

6

n THE SPA beauty

Beauty buffs are constantly checking out websites, visiting Sephora and El Corte Inglés, and researching the newest products sported by their favourite bloggers. To make them truly happy this Christmas, consider one of these seasonal beauty buys. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

MUST-HAVE BEAUTYstBUYS mas

for Chri

2

1

1 – MUGLER AURA PERFUME: This sweet scent contains vanilla, white floral and woody notes, perfect for those into exotic aromatic scents.

2 – DIOR DIORSKIN FOREVER EXTREME CONTROL FOUNDATION This super longwear compact foundation lends skin an extreme matte finish all day long. It controls oil, tightens pores and smoothens the complexion.

3 – HUDA BEAUTY DESERT DUSK EYESHADOW PALETTE: Huda Beauty is perhaps best known for its stunning eyeshadow palettes, containing the perfect blend of matte and sparkly shades. This one contains 18 hues inspired by the Middle East.

Burnt reds, oranges and plums take the centre stage in this stunning product.

4 – GUERLAIN KISSKISS MATTE HYDRATING MATTE LIPSTICK: If you don’t like the dry feeling that mattifying lipsticks bestow, you’ll love this balsam-rich lipstick that maintains a matte look for hours.

5 – CAOLION PORE TIGHTENING DAY & NIGHT GLOWING DUO: A set comprising two treatments to hydrate skin and shrink large pores all at once.

6 – KENZO WORLD EAU DE PARFUM: Kenzo’s artistic directors, Carol Lim and Humberto Leon, reformulate their vision of fashion in this, their first perfume – an elegant floral scene featuring peony, jasmine and Ambroxan®.

3 5

4 6

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Why everyone’s talking about the Arques ‘Aesthetic Medicine’ Clinic Arques seems to be the name on nearly everyone’s eye-catching lips in Marbella and surrounding areas when it comes to recommending a leading-edge beauty and anti-ageing clinic. And its reputation resonates way beyond The Golden Triangle. Arques’ advanced treatments for such conditions as obesity, skin ageing, wrinkles, cellulite, varicose veins and other age-related and lifestyle conditions is now attracting patients from over 30 countries.

So the clinic’s ‘Responsible Aesthetic Medicines’ are based on new techniques that fight these influences and wherever possible prevent them from happening. In many cases, the clinic asserts that it can not only prevent the signs of ageing but can even reverse them. The techniques to do so are surprising.

“We offer the world’s most innovative cosmetic techniques plus exquisite modern facilities”

“I feel really proud of our commitment to social responsibility, an approach shared by every member of our team,” he said “We are very gratified to be able to earmark a percentage of our profits to various foundations to help the needy.

So what’s the secret? “We believe that the real revolution is quite simple,” explained the clinic’s principle, Dr Arques “We offer the world’s most innovative cosmetic techniques plus exquisite modern facilities, including a spa environment, a relaxed and harmonious setting and a very professional service. Added to that we source with great care the world’s number one laboratory products and we obtain the most competitive prices to pass on to our patients. We constantly seek the latest tried and tested scientific advances to ensure the quality we offer is always the best you can obtain anywhere in the world.”

"Our joint objective then, as it continues to be is to use the latest and most effective aesthetic medicine in a responsible way so that results are totally natural.”

“Unfortunately the signs of aging are increasing all around us,” said Dr Arques. “They reflect our current lifestyle: our inadequate diet, lack of exercise and sports practice, lack of oxygen, work and home pressures, pollution, and not least, the sun’s damaging ultra-violet rays.”

Pride in Awards

“Among our other awards, the two most desirable were when we were in competition with an international field and came out top for aesthetic medicine and for responsible innovation in our sector.”

For further information about the Arques Medical Clinic or to make an appointment, email: info@arquesclinic.com

+34 662 408 408 C/ Ramón Areces S/N Complejo Marina Banús Bloque 3, local 29 Puerto Banús www.arquesclinic.com · info@arquesclinic.com arquesclinic

Full details of those treatment are on the clinic’s website www.arquesclinic.com/en Doctor is qualified as aesthetic doctor in the U.K., is registered with the GMC and is also an associate member of the Royal College of General Practitioners

n THE SPA health

CIRUMED

10th

T

oday, the happy team is 26-strong, with specialist surgeons, nurses, and administrative staff forming a united ‘family’ that has been attending to patients with passion and dedication. The infrastructure has also changed. Cirumed has expanded from a smaller clinic near Marbella’s Old Town to its sizeable headquarters close to the entrance to Marbella.

Celebrates

Anniversary

A BRAND NEW OPERATING UNIT A couple of months ago, Cirumed achieved what is undoubtedly a milestone in its long history – the launching of a brand new, 1,300m2 unit with two operating rooms, five suites, and the very latest technology and cutting edge equipment, including two Laminar Flow Systems – a vital concept in contamination

Celebratory vibes abound at Cirumed, the aesthetic and plastic surgery clinic founded in 2007 by Dr. Alexander Aslani, also Head of the Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Quirón Málaga and Marbella Hospitals. For Dr. Aslani and his wife, surgical nurse and wound specialist, Jeannine Aslani, it seems like it was just yesterday that a small team of four first opened the doors of their clinic, with a view to offering specialised surgical and nonsurgical treatments to clients from the area and abroad.

control which ensures air moves in one direction and at the same speed, to avoid the crossover of airstreams. The new unit enables Dr. Aslani to perform treatments such as the Total Bikini Package – involving a breast augmentation, liposuction and Brazilian butt lift – with ease, thanks to two special tables which allow him to rotate the patient into several precise positions during surgery.

SPECIALISATION IS KEY Dr. Aslani attributes Cirumed’s success to two crucial factors: specialisation, and teamwork.

His nickname says it all – ‘The Butt King’ is how he is known to beauty buffs, since he has been performing this highly solicited operation for various years before it became so well-

known. The Total Bikini Package, meanwhile, is something that was unheard of seven years ago, when Dr. Aslani first started performing it. “When colleagues initially found out I was performing a breast augmentation, Brazilian butt lift and liposuction in one operation, they were flabbergasted – yet today, many are following suit.

Competition is always a positive thing, but what sets us apart is that we have been performing three or four of these operations daily for all these years.” Indeed, it is the team’s experience that has built its reputation for delivering outstanding yet natural, harmonious results. Dr. Aslani is backed by a talented team of surgeons focussing on three areas: Body, Breast and Facial Surgery.

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HARMONIOUS RESULTS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND ARTISTRY Dr. Aslani understands that achieving perfect proportion involves artistry as much as it does science. Thus, water jet liposuction is used to remove excess fat; the fat extracted is then often employed alongside implants to give breasts a more natural shape. Extracted fat might also be used in areas such as the buttocks (sometimes alongside implants) and hips, to add graceful curves. “Many people are curious as to how water jet liposuction differs from older technology – basically, it enables us to work quickly and is gentler than traditional liposuction.

As we infiltrate an area with water, we also suction the fat out, causing less bruising and swelling than the conventional method.” Interestingly, Dr. Aslani has been using this system for almost a decade, and the new operating unit has two jet

towers, which are necessary for the procedure.

involved, and afterwards, they often head straight back to work.”

SURGERY-FREE LIPOSUCTION WITH COOLSCULPTING

ANTI-AGEING AND TREATMENTS FOR PROBLEM SKIN

Specialisation goes beyond surgery; if Dr. Aslani is a master at surgical pursuits, Jeannine is arguably the most specialised practitioner of CoolSculpting in the south of Spain – a revolutionary non-surgical alternative to liposuction, which involves ‘freezing’ fat cells to reduce volume virtually anywhere in the body – including stubborn areas like the belly, love handles, thighs – even above the knees and the double chin! “CoolScupting is a lunch-time treatment that takes as little as an hour; in just a couple of sessions, patients enjoy results similar to those obtained in liposuction,” she says, adding, “While clients are having the treatment, they usually work on their mobile or laptops so as you can imagine, there is no pain or downtime

Jeannine and team also centre on ‘turning back the hands of time’ with treatments such as Fraxel and Fractora laser, which target skin ageing, pigmentation, scarring, wrinkles, and other problems.

Meanwhile, wrinkles can also be targeted through Botox, fillers, platelet rich plasma gel therapy and more.

Other treatments work on improving, correcting, balancing and harmonising facial features – for instance, micropigmentation, which includes semi-permanent makeup for the eyes, lips and eyebrows, as well as for hiding scars or even creating a look of higher hair density in the scalp. The team also offers facials, utilising active products while

delivering a super-relaxing treatment.

Indeed, Jeannine has left no stone unturned, with the new operating unit boasting its own Nespresso bar and mani-pedi area for family members of patients. Patients can even step into the clinic for something as simple as sugar waxing.

Dr. Alexander and Jeannine Aslani and their team are excited about the upcoming decade, and the thought of putting a smile on so many patients’ faces. Enabling people to be the best version of themselves is the glue that keeps this talented team together.

Congratulations and here’s to many more milestones achieved!

The Cirumed Team would like to wish their clients and friends a Merry Christmas and a fantastic 2018!

g CIRUMED CLINIC Edif. Panorama, Planta baja, Local 2.

CN340, km 184, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 346. www.cirumed.es

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In Pursuit of

HAPPINESS WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

B

eing in a positive mood has been linked to favourable outcomes for a host of conditions, with some research indicating that happiness can even help prevent illness (see our health news section this month, for instance, which shows that being in a good mood can improve the effectiveness of one important vaccination). According to the Mayo Clinic, there are scientifically proven links between an optimistic outlook and an increased lifespan, lower rates of depression and anxiety, better heart health and improved coping skills in life’s toughest moments. How, then, can we aim to be happier this festive season and in the upcoming year?

Z USE MONEY TO BUY TIME: New research carried out by scientists at the University of British Columbia and Harvard University has found that investing money to have more free time (such as paying someone to help tidy or do other chores) can lead to greater life satisfaction. Said lead author, Ashley Whillans, “People who hire a housecleaner or pay the kid next door to mow the lawn might feel like they’re being lazy. But our results suggest that buying time has similar benefits for happiness as having more money.”

Z ALLOW YOURSELF TO FEEL EMOTIONS: A cross-cultural study of over 2,000 students in eight countries showed that it is vital to allow ourselves to experience emotions, even when these are unpleasant. When you try to fight against feelings like anger, fear or sadness, you can be less happy overall. Don’t feel like you have to be

upbeat every single moment of the day.

Z SHARE GOOD AND BAD NEWS: Research has shown that soldiers who have fought overseas or assisted in natural disasters, fare better when they have responsive partners who help them battle loneliness and sleep issues. Additional research has shown that couples who communicate both good and bad news, and who respond positively when their partner reaches out, are happier.

Z EXERCISE SELFCOMPASSION: Take a pause from valuing yourself in terms of your achievements, and try to be as kind to yourself as you are to your loved ones. A study carried out on over 5,000 people showed that those who accept themselves as they really are, are better off mentally. To boost your selflove, ask those you trust what it is they most like about you, and try to enjoy a little alone time regularly, so you can collect your thoughts and think about any changes you can make to enhance your health, comfort, and happiness.

Z GET PHYSICAL: Those who work out regularly are generally happier than those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. It makes sense – when we remain within a healthy weight and pursue a lifestyle that promotes greater heart and muscular health, we feel fitter, younger and more motivated.

Z GIVE A LITTLE: The same largescale study mentioned above showed that giving to others boosts our happiness factor. Karen Pine, author

of the study, said, “It’s great to see so many people regularly doing things to help others – and when we make others happy we tend to feel good ourselves too.”

Z BE RESILIENT: Find a way to bounce back from the hard knocks.

make you feel your best – make time for them as much as you can!

Z KEEP LEARNING: Always be curious, and open to learning new skills. The more we learn, the more wondrous life can seem. e

Z PURSUE MEANING: Try to be part of something bigger than yourself and your immediate family – this might be a charity group, a hobby shared by many, a project that can improve the lives of others. It is difficult to feel depressed when you obtain meaning from your daily experiences.

Z APPRECIATE LIFE: Notice the world around you and count the things, places and experiences that

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CANCER FORUM

AT QUIRÓNSALUD HOSPITAL IN MÁLAGA The Quirónsalud Hospital in Málaga recently celebrated the fifth edition of a conference entitled 21st Century Oncology, which was held at the University of Málaga. Talks covered issues such as the use of immunotherapy to treat lung cancer and colorectal cancer, new medications for prostate cancer, intraperitoneal chemotherapy and peritonectomy for ovarian cancer, personalised treatments for breast cancer, new advances in radiotherapy, and ‘liquid biopsies’ in the diagnosis and treatment of tumours. Despite the fact that cancer rates continue to grow, mortality rates have reduced by around 1.32 per cent per year, thanks to new medical advances. To keep cancer at bay, consume a Mediterranean diet, work out moderately, avoid obesity, drink moderately, and quit smoking – the latter in particular greatly increases the risk of a host of cancers. i www.quironsalud.es

ESCHENBACH LOW VISION AIDS AT SOL EYES Do You find reading or watching TV difficult? Sol Eyes vision clinics has a solution even for this small but common everyday problem: ESCHENBACH low vision aids. Eschenbach vision rehabilitation professionals provide award-winning, technologically advanced low vision aids, including magnification devices to help those suffering from macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and other eye diseases. These devices, combined with the low vision care provided by Sol Eyes professionals, maximise the remaining vision of the visually impaired, allowing them to remain independent and improving their overall quality of life. German Eschenbach magnifiers and reading glasses with precision lens manufacturing are perfect for sensitive eyes. The reading glasses give a clear picture to the edge, thanks to aplanatic lenses. If the use of aids does not feel natural, some of the patients with low vision choose to have surgical treatment in which the original lens is replaced with a telescopic lens – this enables them to read or watch TV, for example. Book your appointment with the optician for low vision aids counselling, or with Sol Eyes’ eye specialists for a thorough eye examination. Doctors speak English, Spanish, Finnish, Swedish and Norwegian. Sol Eyes in Fuengirola and Marbella also offer giftcards, so you can purchase Eschenbach products for your loved one this Christmas! i www.soleyes.es

ONE OUT OF EVERY 1,000 CHILDREN CAN HAVE A RHEUMATOLOGIC DISEASE Rheumatologic diseases are often associated with the elderly, yet recent research shows that up to one in every 1,000 children can suffer from this type of disease. Recently, the Spanish Society of Rheumatologic Pediatrics, the Lliga Reumatològica Catalana and the Gebro Pharmaceutical Group joined forces to inform the press about juvenile arthritis, a term used to describe all types of arthritis that, in those aged under 16, lasts for over six weeks. The main reaction is the swelling of joints, with symptoms flaring up and abating in turn. Additional signs include stiffness, numbness after rest, pain, redness and heat in the affected area. Currently, science still cannot explain why this disease arises in the young, though early diagnosis is important to formulate a plan that is effective and adapted to each patient. Children may also benefit from psychological support, since how they face their illness can affect their outcomes in a positive or negative way. i www.reumaped.es

CATARACTS ARE THE LEADING CAUSE OF

BLINDNESS IN THE WORLD

The Vithas Xanit International Hospital celebrated World Vision Day by giving free eye checks, with a view to preventing blindness. They informed the press that cataracts are now officially the number one cause of blindness in the world, despite the fact that the condition can be treated if detected early. Dr. Ángel Cilveti, Head of the Ophthalmologic Unit of the Xanit, explained, “Eye disease affects practically all human beings at some point in their lives. Many conditions, such as cataracts, retinal detachment or glaucoma, can result in blindness if they are not treated correctly.” The most important way to keep your eyes healthy is to take a preventive approach, having regular eye checks to spot any signs of problems as early as possible. i www.xanit.es

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NEW ADVANCES IN TECHNOLOGY FOR

HEART DISEASE

The first ever human-to-human heart transplant was carried out 50 years ago (December, 1967) by Dr. Christiaan Barnard. Marisa Cutillas pays homage to this feat by highlighting new technologies and procedures used to battle heart disease. As noted by world-renowned cardiologist, Dr. Richard Chazal, “This is the most exciting time in cardiovascular medicine, with an exponential explosion in science and data, along with the beginning of the evolution of population-based medicine to personalised medicine.” Important advances include:

Z THE CRT DEVICE: The Cardiac Resynchronisation (CRT) device, placed into the left ventricle, is no larger than a grain or rice yet it works more efficiently than pacemakers or defibrillators, largely because it is lead-free and is able to be placed directly into the heart tissue. As the heart’s lining grows over the implant, it becomes part of the organ itself. The device is used to battle conditions such as atrial fibrillation (which causes the heart to beat irregularly and quicker than it should).

Z HEARTMATE3: This device took home the 2016 Cardiostim-EHRA Europace Innovation Award. It is a left ventricular assist device which is able to pump up to 10 litres of blood per minute, serving as a temporary solution for those awaiting a heart transplant, or as a permanent device for elderly patients and others who cannot be operated on.

Z PARACHUTE IMPLANT: In cases of heart failure, the left ventricle can become less efficient at pumping blood throughout the body. The Parachute Implant by CardioKinetix Inc. effectively

separates the damaged part of the left ventricle from the healthy part, thus improving the heart’s pumping ability.

Z NANOBOT DEVICES: Scientists are currently working on the use of biocompatible machines at a nano scale for targeted heart procedures.

These machines would propel nanobots through a clot to create channels that allow for faster penetration of tPAs (special proteins that ‘break down’ blood clots).

Z ROBOTICS: Robotic systems enabling more precise control of catheters than is possible with manual control. Robotics will not only enable more precise work, but also stop cardiologists from suffering serious orthopedic issues caused by wearing heavy lead aprons. Cardiologists have high rates of left side brain cancer and glaucoma due to radiation exposure during specific operations/procedures so this technology will do plenty to ensure they are able to save many more lives, without endangering their own.

Z ENGINEERED HEARTS: Dr. Adam

Feinberg of the Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh recently printed the first accurate 3D heart. Feinberg’s first attempt had no tissue but he has been using natural materials in his latest attempts. His aim is to eventually print a fully tissue-engineered heart. Current models are able to replicate the way the heart works (mimicking blood flow and pressure), yet thus far, they only work for around 3,000 beats. Thus we may have to wait a few years until an engineered heart works as a long-term solution.

Currently, it may function as a bride for patients waiting for a transplant.

Z TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT (TAVR): In the past, faulty valves were replaced though open heart surgery, in which the problematic valve was replaced with a biological or mechanical valve. These days, a technology known as TAVR enables doctors to insert a thin, flexible catheter through the groin or side of the chest, to guide an artificial valve to where it is needed.

Z NEW DRUGS FOR TOUGH-TO-

REDUCE CHOLESTEROL LEVELS: Helping patients with stubborn high cholesterol levels has long been a challenge, but a recent clinical trial carried out on over 27,000 patients with cardiovascular disease, found that specific antibodies known as evolocumab can successfully act on the liver enzymes to remove ‘bad cholesterol’ from the bloodstream.

Z DIABETES DRUGS WITH A DIFFERENCE: Several medications are currently being used to kill two birds with one stone (diabetes and cardiovascular disease). These glucoselowering medications were found to reduce the risk of hospitalisation for heart failure and cardiovascular death in two large-scale clinical trials.

While all these advances hold great promises, it is important to remember that according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing risk factors such as physical inactivity, obesity, tobacco, and poor dietary choices. e

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ENTERPRISE LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILES FINANCE/LAW THE VIBE COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

VILLA TIBERIO CHARITY GALA EVENING IN AID OF CUDECA AND THE RED CROSS This year’s annual gala event at Villa Tiberio was a huge success, with 130 guests enjoying a Champagne reception plus delicious food and wine, live entertainment, and a fireworks display courtesy of Sandro Morelli, owner of the iconic restaurant.

Renowned football manager, Harry Redknapp, flew in from the UK to support the event, which raised €32.360 for Cudeca and the Red Cross. Sir Michael Smurfit from Ireland donated €10.000, which merits a huge thank you from the charities.

The organisers of the event (Caroline Randerson, Barbara Fernando, Faith Baxter-Hague, Selina Mackenzie, Esther Ráez Martínez, and Susan Briggs) would also like to thank Sandro Morelli and his staff, all volunteers, and performing musicians. i www.villatiberio.com

INTERNATIONAL PADEL EXPERIENCE BY MADISON AT RESERVA DEL HIGUERÓN Reserva del Higuerón proudly hosted the recent European finals of the International Padel Experience by Madison. This circuit has been played in some of Europe’s most important capitals, including Berlin, Zurich, Rotterdam, Moscow, Rome, and Lisbon, with the finals taking place in Fuengirola. Apart from the Master final, an open tournament took place simultaneously, featuring men’s, women’s, and mixed categories. i www.reservadelhigueronresort.com 122 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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MAMA AWARD SPAIN AT KITCH SOCIAL CLUB Mama Award Spain, organised by Top5 Agency Spain and founder Juliia Zhelvakovo, was held recently at the Kitch Social Club, featuring women who unite two important facts of life: motherhood and a professional or social life, with a view to being positive and productive.

Attendees enjoyed a magnificent dinner, and winners were announced in a host of categories, including Children’s Education, Health and Medicine, Real Estate, Creativity, Business, Art, Events, Television and the Media, and Glamour. Funds raised from the event went to a child in need. i www.top5.es

NEW MARBELLA ART GALLERY JESSE JAY STYLED BY ROCHE BOBOIS Talented artist, Jesse JAY, will be opening a brand new art gallery in Marbella on December 29, aiming to provide art lovers with a place to meet and greet. The gallery, which will feature furniture by renowned designer firm, Roche Bobois, will present works by international artists, as well as by Jesse JAY himself – a lifelong painter who began his study of masterpiece oil paintings as a young child. His passion for natural beauty and glamour is seen in his work as he transforms vistas familiar and rare into stunning interpretations of colour, with playful rhythms and raw emotional impact. i www.Jessejay-artist.com

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XANIT PRESENTS TEST THAT REDUCES CHILDREN’S CAVITIES BY 80%

NEW ASSISTED REPRODUCTION SERVICE AT QUIRÓNSALUD MARBELLA

The Odontology Department of the Vithas Xanit International Hospital in Benalmádena is now offering youngsters a test that can reduce the occurrence of cavities in children by 80 per cent. The test indicates whether or not acidity levels are high; if they are, special measures can be taken to reduce the appearance of cavities. Results can be obtained one or two days after undertaking the test. The Hospital is also proud to announce that, for the first time in Málaga, it recently used carbon dioxide as a substitute for iodine contrast in an arteriography, which reduces toxicity, helping to prevent kidney damage. i www.xanit.es

The Quirónsalud Hospital in Marbella is launching a new Assisted Reproduction unit, under the guiding hand of Dr. Enrique Pérez de la Blanca.

Quirónsalud Málaga has been providing this service for over eight years in Málaga and the Hospital Group decided it was time to offer the very latest techniques closer to home, for residents from Marbella and nearby. i www.quironsalud.es

PLAZA MAYOR AIMS TO PUT A STOP TO BULLYING MARBELLA INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE TOURNAMENT A SUCCESS The fourth annual edition of the Marbella International Bridge Tournament, sponsored by Línea Directa, took place recently at the H10 Andalucía Plaza Hotel, attracting the participation of 200 players from around the world, including the USA. Congratulations to the winners: Paul Hackett, Bhim Ruia, Bernodus Kristinsson and Ingvaldur Gustafsson. i www.marbellabridge.com

In Spanish schools, one out of every 10 children are bullied. The Plaza Mayor Commercial Centre in Málaga and the Asociación Española para la Prevención del Acoso Escolar (AEPAE), recently collaborated to help tackle this problem through a programme called ‘Entrapped’, which seeks to raise awareness of this issue through a film that can be viewed and shared online. Every time the video is shared, Plaza Mayor will donate €1 to the AEPAE. i To view the work, search for #Atrapados (de

Sonae Sierra y AEPAE) on YouTube.

ACOOLA WINTER HEATING SOLUTIONS Summer is over in the South of Spain, with cooler nights creeping in and promises of rain. How can you ensure that your winter isn’t spent hibernating in a cold, dark home? ACOOLA offers a wide range of effective, stylish heaters and lamps guaranteed to keep you cosy during the colder months. They are official partners of Heatsail, EcoSmart Fire, Bromic, and Royal Botania. Their heaters deliver up to 6,000 watts and are economical. They are perfect for adding warmth and light to your home or terrace. i For further information, www.acoola.eu 124 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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NEW GENETIC TEST FOR PREDISPOSITION TO BREAST, OVARIAN AND ENDOMETRIAL CANCER VINCCI SELECCIÓN POSADA DEL PATIO RECOGNISED AT PUERTA NUEVA 2017 AWARDS The Regulatory Board of the Málaga D.O. (Denominación de Origen) and Sierras de Málaga recently awarded the Vincci Selección Posada del Patio a Puerta Nueva 2017 award, which is given to outstanding companies, entities and professionals from the wine sector in the province of Málaga. The Vincci was chosen owing to its commitment to the local gastronomic culture. The establishment collaborates closely with the Museo del Vino, with which it has an agreement for its restaurant, Le Diner. i www.vinccihoteles.com

Synlab Laboratories is now offering the BRCA+16 GENES test, which enables doctors to identify a predisposition to three types of cancer: breast, ovarian, and endometrial. The test analyses DNA through next generation sequencing, in order to find alterations that could indicate a higher risk of disease. i For further information, www.synlab.es

DEBRA – BREAKTHROUGH IN EB RESEARCH AND CHRISTMAS GIFT WRAPPING SERVICE AT FNAC LA CAÑADA

BANG & OLUFSEN LAUNCHES IN MÁLAGA Luxury Danish brand, Bang & Olufsen, is proud to have recently launched its central Málaga store, where all its products will be exclusively distributed. At the opening, General Director, Javier Liedo, accompanied by Málaga partners, Nacho Porras, and Víctor Periañez, welcomed clients and guests to the stunningly designed, 80m2 showroom, which is located in the heart of the city. Bang & Olufsen works with top technology to bring clients items like the very best OLED screen, top quality sound, and personalisation options for televisions. The firm accomplished global sales of over €230,78M in the last year and employs 800 people. g The new store is at

C/ Hilera 8, Málaga. Tel: 952 383 983. www.bang-olufsen.com/malaga

DEBRA, the association for those suffering from epidermolysis bullosa (or ‘butterfly skin’) is pleased to share the results of a skin graft trial, published in the journal Nature and shared by many sources of media nationally and internationally. The study focused on grafting the skin of a seven-year-old boy with junctional epidermolysis bullosa. A small piece of skin was genetically modified to contain the correct gene. The corrected skin cells were then grown into skin grafts which were transplanted to cover 80 per cent of the boy’s body. In the year following the transplant, the skin remains robust and blister-free. The researchers attributed the success to stem cells called holoclones that can extensively self-renew. DEBRA would also like to announce that it will be offering a Christmas gift wrapping service at FNAC La Cañada, from November 24, 2017 to January 5, 2018. i Further information,

www.debra.es

FRANCISCO SA TEIXEIRA NEW DOSM AT KEMPINSKI HOTEL BAHIA ESTEPONA The Kempinski Hotel Bahia Estepona has announced the appointment of Francisco Sa Teixeira as the new Director of Sales and Marketing. Coming from the Kempinski Doha in the Middle East to the Beach Resort in Spain, Sa Teixeira takes the helm for the day-to-day operations of the Sales and Marketing departments, as well as focusing on achieving the company’s strategic goals. He is committed to building on the hotel’s strong performance record and tapping into new markets to stimulate demand and enhance revenue. Sa Teixeira´s career started in operations at the Hilton group and he quickly progressed through the ranks, working at the Sheraton, and Hoteis Real Group in Portugal representing nine four- and five-star hotels, including the famous Villa Italia in Lisbon. He holds an Executive Masters in Hotel Management from ESHTE and Universidade Catolica Portugal and has studied at the HEC Paris and Cornell University in the US. i www.kempinski.com

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A SPECIAL NEW YEAR’S EVE AT TANINO

EIC STUDENTS SHINE AT SEA SPRINT TRIATHLON AND MEDITERRANEAN CLUB Selected winners from EIC’s Internal Triathlon were invited to take part in the first ever sea-based challenge over all three disciplines organised by an international school in Spain. EIC hosted the event in partnership with Siroko Beach and Marbella Rent a Bike. Athletes swam 400m, cycled 3km and finished with a 1.6km beach run. Meanwhile, in football news, the EIC U11 Football team recently returned from the Mediterranean Cup playing 10 international teams from all over Europe and North Africa. EIC played 11 matches over three days. Despite over half the squad only comprising Year 4 and 5 players in a Year 6 event, EIC were outstanding. The boys battled their way to the semi-finals beating IS Prague 3 - 2, with Louis Spinola scoring a hat trick. They then faced ISA Alexandria in the final. Goals from Valentino and Basti secured EIC a 2 - 0 victory and the U11 European Cup. i www.eicmarbella.org

CUDECA GOLDIES BRING SWINGING 1960S TO ROUTE 66 IN BANÚS A packed venue recently saw The Rat Pack and Mel Williams rock the house to raise funds for Cudeca Hospice.

Cudeca would like to thank the owners of the restaurant, Nigel Wilson and Patrick Deane, for organising this event, as well as The Rat Pack and Mel Williams for performing with dedication. Customers enjoyed a superb roast dinner as the evening unfolded and before long, the majority were on their feet dancing to the music. A truly memorable experience was had by all who attended this special event. i www.cudeca.org

Trendy international restaurant, Tanino, in Benamara, recently presented members of the media and friends with a preview of the New Year’s Eve menu, to be enjoyed by diners on December 31 with an elegant cotillon. The meal was second to none, featuring dishes such as scallops with boletus duxelle and leek foam; roast beef and duck cannelloni, tomatoes, and sabayon preserve with Marsala wine; a passion fruit sorbet with cachaza, lime juice, and honey; semi-roasted butterfish, a bean purée, clear soup and Iberian ham; beef tenderloin mignon, seasonal mushrooms, foie gras, and juice stock; and for dessert, chocolate cheesecake, strawberry jelly, crispy yoghurt and almond crumble. g Too book a table or for

further information, Tel: 952 883 259. www.tanino.es

ARTE SONSOLES OPENS IN SAN PEDRO Arte Sonsoles is a brand new art school/workshop in San Pedro de Alcántara. It is a fantastic place to discover or develop your creativity, with painting and drawing classes (from ages four and above), workshops, events, and exhibitions, as well as support in technical drawing for college or university preparation, and for fine arts and artistic careers. A team of professionals, influenced by the enthusiasm of its founder, Sonsoles Ruiz Sánchez, is ready to help you with advice, find what best suits your needs, and turn your house into your home. sDecorative painting, murals, easel painting, furniture painting... on almost any surface, they practise a wide range of techniques: trompe lóeil, mural applications, stucco, colour washed, handmade lacquered, patinas, gold and silver leaf. g C/ Santa Gemma, Local 6, San Pedro

Alcántara. Tel: 659 345 907. info@artesonsoles.com

150 WEEKS OF MARBELLA NOW TV Marbella Now TV recently celebrated its 150th show, with celebrities and members of the press joining host Nicole King and her team at Our Space, where the show was recorded to celebrate the special occasion. Our Space provided a fabulous spread and Pizzamos delighted guests with freshly baked pizza. The focus of the anniversary was on the international community that the show has helped create. This year, as part of the United Nationalities of Marbella Summit, Nicole joined forces with the Línea Directa Road Traffic Safety Foundation to distribute disposable breathalysers at no charge to participating bars, restaurants and clubs to help keep roads safe. If you’d like your establishment to be a part of this initiative, send an email to MiMarbellaRTVM@gmail.com. For those who don’t already know, Marbella Now is a daily English language TV show broadcast on RTV Marbella, with a new show each day at 8pm and a bumper compilation of the whole week’s programming on Saturdays and Sundays. i The show is repeated during the week and can be viewed via streaming on www.marbellanowtv.com 128 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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NEW YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA AT THE GRAN MELIÁ DON PEPE RESORT The Gran Meliá Don Pepe Resort’s talented Head Chef, Víctor Carracedo, welcomed members of the press to a special tasting of the New Year’s Eve menu, organised by Theresa Bernabé and team. Star dishes included red King prawn from Denia cooked at low temperature and served with ecological caviar, a pheasant and foie mille-feuille with chutney and black fig, and a mushroom confit tartare with quail egg. The main course comprised blue lobster with its own reduction, violet potato and basil crumble, and Frison tenderloin with foie parmentier and fresh truffles – all exquisite and irresistible. The dessert was sinfully satisfying – a black, brown and beige delight by master chocolatier, Darcis. Wines served included a Freixenet Vintage, Jean Leon 3055 Chardonnay, Orube Reserva from Rioja, and Moet Chandon. The Meliá has many more special meals and events lined up. g Further information, Tel: 912 764 747. www.melia.com

STOMACH THERAPY NURSES HUMANISE OSTOMY TREATMENT Three stomach therapy nurses from Málaga and 150 colleagues from Spain and Italy, have worked together to create the first international agreement to humanise ostomy treatments. The agreement has five key points: adapting infrastructure to attend to patients, providing patients with information regarding their situation, helping patients adapt and manage their emotions, training professionals to be more empathetic and to deal with day-to-day situations, and involving family or carers in the entire process. In Spain, over 70,000 people are treated for this condition and there are 14,000 new cases every year. i For further information,

www.hollister.com

MERCEDES MENGÍBAR RECOGNISED AT 12TH EDITION OF EJECUTIVOS AWARDS Mercedes Mengíbar, General Director of the Vithas Xanit International Hospital, was awarded for her outstanding professional achievements at the 12th edition of the eponymous awards of Ejecutivos Magazine. The ceremony seeks to celebrate the work of professionals who have excelled in management and business acumen. Mengíbar, who has been leading teams for over 20 years, explained that the secret to her success was her team.

“Without them, none of this would be possible,” she stated. i www.xanit.es ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2017 / 129

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ENGLISH-SPEAKING ELECTRICITY SUPPLIER COMES TO SPAIN

ENERGY NORDIC

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

“

Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler” is an Einstein quote which has been adopted by Energy Nordic, a Danish-owned, multilingual electricity supplier that is making life a lot easier for expats on the Coast.

The company, which boasts a central location in Fuengirola but provides electricity Spain-wide, is here to take the confusion out of selecting an electricity plan, also supplying you with easy-to-read electricity bills.

The company boasts a qualified, friendly, team that can attend to you in English (or, indeed, in Spanish, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish and German – with more languages soon to be available).

ELECTRICITY BILLS IN PLAIN ENGLISH Energy Nordic was founded by Jesper Wagner (CEO) and Christian Larsen (Partner and Director of Marketing), who built up electricity companies in Denmark for many years before setting up on the Coast. They are joined by Marianne Dahlgaard (Customer Service Manager), who has

a detailed knowledge of the electricity service industry in Spain, and Phil Mitchell (Commercial Manager), who tells me that the state of the electricity market in Spain (where clients are often unaware of the options available to them) is “similar to the Danish market six years ago.”

Today, he reminds me, there is no reason to think that you must rely on one supplier in particular. With Energy Nordic, expats can receive bills in simple English (or another chosen language) and rely on expert knowledge that will enable them to find the most convenient plan possible. “Currently,” says Phil, “Many people don’t really know what they are paying for. We inform them of important considerations such as their contracted power, the actual energy they are using, taxes, etc.”

wish to obtain energy at the exact cost price. We buy power on the energy market every single day, and sell it to you at exactly the same price that we pay – with no hidden tariffs or charges. If electricity prices fall, so do your costs. You pay us a small (€5 monthly) handling charge for trading your energy daily on the market.”

The second plan, called the Flat Rate plan, is ideal for holiday homes which you may only use occasionally.

Says Phil, “You pay a fixed rate every month, regardless of your usage and no matter how much time you or your family spend in your Spanish home.

Your Flat Rate is calculated on the basis of your previous usage, which places you in a certain price group.

You can use as much electricity as you need within the group you have chosen.”

FINDING THE BEST PLAN FOR YOUR HOME

100% GREEN ENERGY

The right energy programme can potentially reduce the price of your bill. Phil tells me about two current plans offered at Energy Nordic: “One is called Flex Price. It is for those who

If having a dedicated, specialised team attending to you and answering all your queries in your language of choice, and finding a more reasonably priced plan doesn’t convince you, this surely will: “All electricity supplied by

Energy Nordic is sustainable green energy,” explains Phil.

CUSTOMER SERVICE WITH PASSION The enthusiastic directors at Energy Nordic have placed a strong emphasis on finding the right team; since clients hail from a host of different countries and have varying needs, it is important to have a committed staff that is passionate about offering customers the best, most personalised solutions possible. “You are always welcome to call us or drop by as we would like to talk to you” says Phil.

The success of Energy Nordic in this sphere is testimony to the fact that making things simple may take plenty of work, but the result is worth it – in this case as much for clients as for renewable energy producers and our fragile Planet. Says Phil, “Anyone who is interested in learning about how we can help them can feel free to contact us for more information.” g C/ San Pancracio 18, Fuengirola.

Tel: 916 358 626. www.energynordic.es

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DEAR EXPATS IN SPAIN

Wouldn’t it be nice to have all your energy bills and customer service in English?

That way you can always get help, you know exactly what you are paying for... ...and of course, you will get a good price

Energy Nordic is your English-speaking electricity supplier in Spain. Everything we say and write to you will be in clear, direct English. Should you have any questions, you will always have an English-speaking customer service team ready to assist you.

Quite simple! We have an office in Fuengirola and you are always very welcome to drop by. Find out more at energynordic.com

May we challenge your energy bill?

Call, send or visit us with your energy bill, and we are convinced we can do better.

Call us on the phone at +34 916 358 626

Send a picture of your energy bill to +34 661 285 798

Visit us in-store at C/San Pancracio 18, Fuengirola

Energy Nordic S.L. C/San Pancracio 18 29640 Fuengirola +34 916 358 626 energynordic.com

z THE PRO finance

ANDALUSIAN

INHERITANCE TAX ALTERATIONS Inheritance tax arises on the day a person dies. From January 1, 2018, this tax is changing in Andalusia.

WORDS CRISTINA FALKENBERG

T

he changes will only apply to taxpayers fiscally resident in Andalusia. If you are not a resident in Spain, you’ll be paying your tax in full. If you are tax resident in another Spanish region, you’ll have to check their relevant regime, as the tax varies from one province to another.

You’ll normally be a fiscal resident in Andalusia if you spend more than 183 days actually living in the region.

In case of doubt, you should check with the tax office (AEAT) where you are tax-resident. Registration at the Town Hall (called ‘empadronamiento’) doesn’t substitute registration at the AEAT, which prevails.

The changes apply mainly to inheritances received by the spouse, children, grandchildren and parents of a deceased person. Until now, only €250.000 were exempt from inheritance tax and the final bill depended too on the inheritor’s prior estate. From January 1st, only if you already have an estate worth over one million euros (up from the current €402.678,11) or you inherit over €1M, will you be paying any tax, and only then on the amounts exceeding the million.

Keep in mind though, that the regional government (Junta) has a

tendency to make unrealistically high valuations.

The rule is totally unfair. Imagine two taxpayers, one with a €1M estate and the other one with a €1.100.000 estate. Suppose they both inherit another million. The first one pays nothing meanwhile the other would received a hefty bill of approximately €300.000, as the benefits do not apply if an estate is valued over €1M. In regards to siblings, uncles, aunts and cousins, the situation in Andalusia is similar to that of other Spanish regions and there are hardly any changes, with the exception that anyone who is physically or mentally disabled will only pay on any excess over €250.000 received. Otherwise, the only remarkable advantage for this group of taxpayers arises if you are inheriting the house which is your usual place of residence and you are over 65 years of age. Then a 95 per cent rebate on your tax bill applies.

Otherwise, normally only the blanket €7.993,46 benefit may be claimed.

There is a 99 per cent rebate on gift tax from parents to their children under 35 years of age or with a disability deemed to be of 33 per cent or more, for donations of up to €120.000 cash invested in

purchasing a home meant to be their main residence. Should the gift be the home itself and not the cash to purchase it, then there’s no benefit, which makes no sense whatsoever.

FAMILY BUSINESSES From 1994 onwards, the European Commission has been actively promoting special protection for family businesses, given their great economic importance. Hence it’s commonplace that major rebates and even complete exemptions are involved, when inheriting a familyowned enterprise.

The rebate in Andalusia will be 99 per cent of the tax bill payable for shares or other forms of participation in a family-owned business. The rest of the received estate will be taxed following the general rules.

Certain conditions must be met.

The first one is that the familyowned business actually carries out a certain economic activity and isn’t just limited to managing the family wealth.

The second is that the inheritor owns at least 5 per cent of the business, or alternatively 20 per cent is owned by the inheritor and ‘their family’, which for these purposes

means their spouse, siblings, ascendants and descendants.

The third condition to be met is that at least one of the family members is a director in the company, and at least 50 per cent of their current income derives from work done for the company. The tax office insists this company director must also be an owner in the company, however the Supreme Court has ruled it’s enough if they’re a director and a member of the family, even if they don’t hold a stake.

The family-business will be valued for inheritance tax purposes. Any assets the business owns but doesn’t require to carry out it’s activities will be taxed separately. Hence it’s no good including your holiday home in your family-run company expecting a rebate might apply because it won’t, a matter in which the Constitutional Court’s rulings are clear.

Gifts of up to €1M from parents to children, for creating or expanding a family-owned enterprise enjoy the rebate too. The gift must be recorded in a Notary’s deed and the investment must be kept in the business for at least five years, with the only exception being if the person receiving the gift dies before then. e

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ESSENTIALS DEC17.qxp_Maquetación 1 08/11/2017 12:54 Page 1

More than 25 years on the coast

31.000

printed versions

N

The most cost effective gateway to the Scandinavian market Our three monthly Scandinavian magazines are available both in print and online, and we make constant efforts to get the best out of both worlds, to the benefit of our advertisers and readers.

We reach aprox. 75.000 Scandinavians in Southern Spain with at monthly circulation of 31.000 copies.

SUECO en

S PA N I E N F Ö R S V E N S K A R

MAJ 2017

Intervjuer Nyheter Bostad Finans Utflykter Sport Fakta Kultur Profiler Politik Mode Hälsa

At Norrbom Marketing we are always doing our outmost to give our advertisers and readers the best experience. Today, just like we did 25 years ago, when the first magazine came out.

Caroline af Ugglas

Contact us for prices for advertising in one or more magazines, on websites or in newsletter e-mails. www.norrbom.com www.ensueco.com www.ladanesa.com www.norskemagasinet.com

Caroline af Ugglas får det att rocka i Svenska kyrkan Costa del Sol, som förövrigt är en egen församling igen!

LA

Det norske månedsmagasinet på Costa del Sol

DANESA OKTOBER 2017

LA REVISTA DANESA EN ESPAÑA DET DANSKE MAGASIN I SPANIEN

NORSKE Det

MAGASINET

Da en lille idé blev til kystens bedste forretning

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

Det Norske Magasinets journalist treffer naturligvis mange nordmenn til daglig her på Costa del Sol, men sjelden noen som har bodd her sammenhengende og på fulltid i over 30 år.

Han har aldrig været en lille grim ælling – men derimod den lille mand, der startede fra bunden og i dag flyver blandt verdens smukkeste svaner.

Vi har mødt manden, der på rekordtid har skabt Costa del Sols største danskejede arbejdsplads og ufortrødent flyver mod nye horisonter.

Janus

Møt

Pål Christensen

Rægaard Nielsen

– EN UNG NORSK VETERAN I SPANIA NOVEMBER 2017

www.ladanesa.com

The most cost effective gateway to the Scandinavian market.

CENTRO IDEA Ctra. de Mijas Km. 3,6 29650 Mijas Tlf. (+34) 952 58 15 53 norrbom@norrbom.com www.norrbom.com

NORRBOM MARKETING

z THE PRO vibe

AMBIENCE HOME DESIGN 15TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY Andrea Böck and her team welcomed guests at the idyllic venue of the recently completed La Perla Blanca to toast 15 years in business. The palatial 12 bedroom mansion was the perfect setting for the event, having been newly furnished by Ambience Home Design with sophistication and style. Invitees viewed the desirable villa and enjoyed intermingling with live music, drinks and canapés. i www.ambiencehomedesign.com

“Luxury is attention to detail, originality, exclusivity and above all quality” – Angelo Bonati

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN AND COURTESY OF AMBIENCE HOME DESIGN 134 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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z THE PRO vibe

A WICKED HALLOWEEN AT THE PUENTE ROMANO

Ghouls and goblins abounded for one night only at the Puente Romano’s fun Halloween celebration, A Wicked Halloween – a charity gala dinner held to raise funds for The Children’s Trust, which offers the largest residential brain injury rehabilitation unit in the UK. Its 24-acre site offers nursing and medical care for children with neurodisability and complex health needs, as well as support for their families. i www.puenteromano.com

“Giving is the master key to success, in all applications of human life” – Bryant McGill

PHOTOGRAPHY PEDROJAEN.COM 136 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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CENA Y FIESTA · PRE-CHRISTMAS PARTY

Gatsby PUENTE ROMANO SALÓN ANDALUCÍA VIERNES 15 DE DICIEMBRE

FRIDAY 15TH DECEMBER

Cóctel y canapés a las 20:00h, cena a partir de las 21:30h

Cocktail and canapés from 8pm, dinner from 9:30pm

65 EUR P/P con vinos seleccionados ETIQUETA: Cóctel con un toque de los años 20 Se regalará un bono de estancia de 2 noches a la mejor vestimenta.

65 EUR P/P, includes selected wines.

DRESS CODE: Twenties Cocktail Our best-dressed guest will receive a voucher for a 2-night stay at the Hotel.

events@puenteromano.com | +34 952 820 900 | puenteromano.com PUENTE ROMANO | BULEVAR PRÍNCIPE ALFONSO VON HOHENLOHE, S/N, 29602 MARBELLA, ESPAÑA

z THE PRO vibe

SOLVILLA/ANTIMA VILLA YOLANDA OPEN HOUSE

Solvilla and Antima recently held an open house event to present Villa Yolanda to agents, clients and members of the press.

Guests marvelled at the beautiful contemporary villa, located in Nueva Andalucía, which combines style, space and comfort to perfection, and includes its very own paddle court in the grounds. i www.villayolanda.es

www.solvilla.no www.antima.no

“Home is not a place… it’s a feeling” – Anonymous

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN 138 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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vibe THE PRO z

GLOBAL GIFT CELEBRITY GOLF WEEKEND WITH RONAN KEATING

The second Global Gift Foundation golf weekend took place recently, a star-studded event involving a host of celebrities who flew in for the occasion.

Ronan Keating, the voice of When You Say Nothing at All and María Bravo were joined by brothers Thom and Max Evans, Harry Redknapp, Craig McGinlay, Ivonne Reyes and Elvia Llauder in a weekend featuring golf, fine dining and some great entertainment. i www.globalgiftfoundation.org

“We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone” – Dr. Loretta Scott

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE GLOBAL GIFT FOUNDATION ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2017 / 139

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z THE PRO vibe

FM CONSULTING’S FAUSTO MARTÍNEZ HONOURED BY CIT

CIT Marbella recently celebrated the 18th annual Business Awards at the Hotel Puente Romano, with the Leading Entrepreneur Award going to Fausto Martínez, founder of prestigious real estate firm, FM Consulting.

Dignitaries including the Mayor of Marbella and other important officials attended the event, which also awarded the Multiple Sclerosis Association of Marbella-San Pedro the Best Institution prize. i www.citmarbella.es

“Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

PHOTOGRAPHY JULIA RODER 140 / DECEMBER 2017 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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h THE LEISURE travel

The stunning Silver Muse cruise liner

SAILING THE

GLISTENING SEA ON THE Silver Muse

A voyage is better than a cruise, where you actually go somewhere rather than sign on for a seagoing hop on – hop off version of If It’s Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium. It’s a journey with an end, such as crossing the Atlantic. WORDS DAVID WISHART PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GENEVIEVE BALTHAZARD, SILVERSEA AND SHUTTERSTOCK

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The good life at the pool deck of the Silver Muse

I

did this a while back on Cunard’s QE2, a Clyde-built express that once crossed Southampton to New York in three days, 20 hours at an average speed of 30 knots, but in its second life as a cruise ship took six days, in my case New York to Southampton, getting me to London for one of the first Eurostar runs under the newly-opened Channel Tunnel to Paris, and then Concorde back to New York.

It was indeed, as they say, the only way to go, and then some.

But what was on my mind as I arrived in Southampton on a mild September day this year was not only the satisfaction of adding the return journey to my logbook, it was the thought of sailing west across the Atlantic in the wake of Columbus, the Pilgrim Fathers, waves of migrants, Atlantic convoys battling on amid U-boats, and of course the Titanic.

Here was food for thought, and with four sea days ahead, time for a book or two, and

as it happened, a good read acquired at our first port.

There was also the very important matter of the vessel, the Silver Muse, which departed Southampton in the evening. It was, and is, the newest ship in the Silversea fleet, a marvel of design and comfort for 600 lucky people.

When it comes to being afloat, they don’t get any better than this.

The next morning, just 165 nautical miles to the west, we were at Falmouth in Cornwall.

Some passengers went off to visit Land’s End while others strolled the town’s long shopping street, which in days gone by would have seen the homes of ship captains and inns where emigrants heading for the new world waited for passage.

Falmouth became a busy place in 1688 when appointed England’s Royal Mail packet station, from where mail, goods and bullion (all in ‘packets’) as well as

passengers left on fast, lightly-armed ships to faraway territories. Hence the term packet ships.

It all changed in 1850 when steamships were able to get to London in almost any weather, leaving Falmouth to become a sleepy town on a beautiful coast with, here and there, the homes of writers and artists.

David Cornwell, better known as John le Carré, is one of them, which probably explains why I was able to buy a signed copy of his new novel, A Legacy of Spies, in Falmouth.

Silver Muse then headed for Waterford in Ireland, where a blue plaque in a town informed us that Thomas Meaghar was born here in 1823, transported to Tasmania in 1849, then made his way to America and came across the Civil War. He became a general in the U.S. Fighting 69th and Irish Brigade and then Governor of Montana, and along the way created the Irish national tricolor, first flown in Waterford.

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Sleeping in style in the Silver Muse

Galway Cathedral at night. View from The Corrib river

Striking interior of Cork’s English Market

The next day we were at Cork, a kiss away from the Blarney Stone, and delightful Kinsale, home to the the Old Head Golf Links. The city’s port of Cobh was formerly known as Queenstown, and this is where Titanic made its last call on April 11, 1912.

Seven passengers got off here – fortunate people – while seven boarded in second class and 113 in steerage. When the Titanic sank four days later, only 25 per cent of steerage passengers, mostly men, survived, while 97 per cent of women in first class made it into the lifeboats.

After that we had a quick visit to Galway, noting that it was near here that Charles Lindbergh made landfall after his perilous crossing of the Atlantic in 1927, and also where French aviators Nungesser and Coli, trying to get to New York the other way, were last seen.

As Silver Muse’s captain set course for Newfoundland, 1,714 nautical miles and four days west, the butler came to our cabin with canapés and asked if he could pour the Champagne. Being where we were, and as Champagne comes with the rations on Silversea, it seemed like the right thing to do.

Sea days allow a ship to get into its stride, free of gangway announcements, crew drills, and the like. Passengers adopt a routine with visits to the relaxing spa, library, coffee in the agreeable Arts Café, maybe a comfy seat in the Venetian lounge to hear cruise raconteur Bill Miller, then lunch.

Midnight buffets seem to be a thing of the past, although on the likes of Silversea there is a pizza place which serves till late, 24-hour room service with a superb menu (including an epic fillet steak) and you can even order from it at The Restaurant.

What’s more, skilled sommeliers are always around and invariably have a selection or wines so good that there is never any need to stray into the connoisseurs’ collection, unless in La Dame by Relais & Châteaux, perhaps, where the elegant setting and ambiance, not to mention the caviar and lobster, can induce the desire for a fine Bordeaux. But even then, prices are not over the top; around $70 buys something worthwhile.

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St John’s magnificent harbour seen from above

St John’s war memorial

I liked Indochine for its Asian food, teppanyaki time at Kaiseki, and the deck Grill where more good steaks come on hot rocks. The late bunch found their way to Silver Note, a cozy nightspot with a jazz singer, and pianist, with the style of a Chicago speakeasy. You simply don’t get this on big ships, at least not without mums and nocturnal children on the dance floor at midnight.

Surprisingly, there was no main dining room, rather eight restaurants each of which had to be booked, two of them requiring formal dress every night. It was a new concept and has since been changed, with two of the restaurants having open seating, with dress codes operating ship-wide on a daily basis.

The crossing was a piece of cake. Seas were mostly calm and dolphins occasionally gave us

an escort. With one day to go, kittiwakes flew out from Newfoundland to bid welcome, and Captain Alessandro Zanello gave me a bridge tour. He is an engaging character with excellent English and likes to dress up his noon talk from the bridge with stories of sea lore, such as superstitions.

There are no paper charts on the bridge but a radar search by the navigator found the Titanic position in seconds, about 600 miles due south.

Ships do go there, and apparently often have problems such as engine failures. Add that to seamen’s superstitions.

Along the way we had good wifi. Silversea gives one hour a day free of charge which I found ample. Downloading a newspaper and an email check took less than 10 minutes.

St John’s has a fine big harbour protected by

Vivid mural near Navy Club, St John’s

a narrow channel and cliffs sporting cannon, not to mention a handsome town where the friendly locals speak with a bit of Irish, for indeed they were the backbone of Newfoundland’s huge cod fishing and curing industry. There is a lot of see here, including the menu at the Blue on Water restaurant for fresh cod and oysters, but my main interest was the Crow’s Nest Officers’ Club which has a U-boat periscope in the bar. The periscope also goes through the ceiling and the roof, as you would expect.

It came from U-190, which surrendered off Newfoundland at the end of the war. It was the same vessel that had torpedoed a Canadian Navy minesweeper, the Esquimalt, and after a brief period of service as a training vessel with the Canadian Navy, U-190 was sunk for target practice at the same place as the Esquimalt.

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The Irish came here for the fishing but they brought plenty of pain as well

Captain Cook was based here in the 18th century and mapped the entire island. His skill was so remarkable that his charts are identical to current satellite-enabled versions. Such prowess resulted in Captain Cook being sent to Tahiti, after which he sailed south and found Australia.

Silver Muse left port amid a prolonged symphony of whistles from many vessels in the harbour, a great experience organised by local port authorities displaying a glorious maritime tradition.

At the next port, St Pierre, which along with Miquelon, is a French possession, we got a Gallic shrug from the locals who shut up shop from noon to 2.30pm, much of the time we were there.

An overnight in St John’s would have been a better idea.

Then Sydney, as Scottish as a bluebell, and with it a fine statue of an immigrant Highlander and his daughter near the dock. Sydney had smiles and markets everywhere with locals keen to make a few bawbees from the Silver Muse passengers. Here the place to go was the Governor’s Pub for oysters and fiddle music. The dockside Big Fiddle Market did a roaring trade, while tour buses swept many to Baddeck on Cape Breton for the Alexander Graham Bell museum and Louisbourg, a perfectly restored French fortress, reputed to be the place where lobster was first eaten by soldiers during the 1758 siege by the British.

Not a few passengers on board had read Anne of Green Gables, the novel written in Prince Edward Island, and who was in Charlottetown to meet us by way of a smiling young lady playing the part perfectly.

Handsome doors on St John’s houses reminiscent of Dublin

Anne of Green Gables

Cottages dot windswept landscape at St Pierre

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The Saguenay Fjord

MONTREAL

Charlottetown is where 150 years ago Canadian leaders from across the country agreed on confederation. It also has the finest oysters and lobsters, the latter so plentiful, locals told me, that in days gone by poor children took lobster sandwiches to school for their lunches.

Nevertheless, restaurants charge an arm and a leg for them. They must have learned their pricing from OPEC. By now passengers on the Silver Muse could talk of nothing but their delight at all things Canadian. They mentioned no litter, polite children, low house prices (other than Toronto and Vancouver), and no wealth and inheritance taxes. I could have added the oysters.

Then into the mighty St Lawrence River and up the Saguenay Fjord where we docked to a welcome that blew everyone away. Locals in period costumes danced and sang in the style that has won them awards for best cruise ship welcome. Helicopters and Beaver floatplanes were on hire for sightseeing and whale watching along the fjord, whose sides soar to 350 metres. We were now in Quebec, where stop signs read Arret – whereas in France they say Stop. This is testament to the independence streak that is never far from many Quebecers’ dreams.

Quebec City is special. Remarkable to think it took the British just 20 minutes to win the battle in 1759 that dislodged France here, and indeed all of Canada. But 100 years later the remaining French won language and other civil rights when the Americans tried to get them to join the US. Quebec City is the beating heart of the French in Canada and it shows. Château Frontenac, said to be the most photographed

hotel in the world, is always worth a visit but so busy.

We took a carriage round the city then enjoyed lunch at Chez Jules.

Finally, Montreal, to find that a big cruise ship had nicked the only dock at the cruise terminal. As a result, it was murder trying to get a taxi, a scenario we had seen before in Sydney, Australia. Because big ships can’t get under the bridge, they have priority at the dock opposite the Opera House. Smaller ships like Silversea have to go under the bridge and dock at White Bay, where we have waited, and waited, for taxis.

However we had a reservation at the Sofitel, and called the concierge who sent us a taxi. Then the fun started. As we checked in to the hotel we felt energised, ready to explore this charming, vibrant city, maybe more.

Voyages do that to you.

Beautiful Montreal Downtown Montreal

Lobster lunch, at a price, Charlottetown, PEI

Sofitel has a great location on the Golden Square Mile named after the many mansions belonging to the men who built Canada. There were just 23 families who, between 1830 and 1930, ran the railways, shipping, banking and insurance, and of these 19 were Scottish.

Many started in humble circumstances such as George Stephen, a bare-footed stableboy from the whisky town of Dufftown who became president of the Bank of Montreal, was the genius behind the Canadian Pacific Railway which united Canada, and ended up as Lord Mount Stephen. His magnificent home is now a hotel.

Another was Donald Smith, who went from humble Hudson’s Bay Company clerk to become Lord Strathcona and the man who drove the ‘last spike’ to complete the CPR. Then there was James McGill, a Glasgow merchant who came to Canada as a fur trader and went on to make the fortune which founded McGill University.

Perhaps the finest house is the Italian Renaissance Ravenscrag built by Hugh Allan, who formed the world’s largest privately-owned shipping line. This and many other mansions became part of McGill University.

If you go, spend a day in Old Montreal. It was here in 1605 that Champlain started a fur trading post, the Catholic church arrived, and French settlers had an average of 22 children per family. However the British prevailed and the biggest statue here is of Nelson. There is another of Robert Burns in front of the Sun Life building, in whose vaults the British crown jewels were stored during the war.

The Golden Square Mile is worth a good look, and I had the good fortune to have as a guide Peggy Wilson, who is contactable at peggy.wilson132@gmail.com g Tourism Montreal is at info@mtl.org www.siversea.com

Statue of Robert Burns in front of the Sun Life building

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Wishing you a white Christmas and plenty of days of skiing in 2018!

¡Te deseamos una feliz Navidad y muchos días de esquí en 2018!

El Lodge Ski & Spa C/ Maribel, 8 - 18196, Sierra Nevada, Granada, Spain T (+34) 958 480 600 ellodge.com / reservas@ellodge.com

h THE LEISURE hotel

W here East Meets W est

FOUR SEASONS TEN TRINITY SQUARE

The Tower of London has played an important role in history, housing exotic animals, guarding the production of England’s coins for five centuries, serving as a prison and lodgings in turn, and so much more. It epitomises both the power and suffering that lie beneath the foundations of any large city, and it is located directly in front of London’s most luxurious ‘new’ hotels: Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RICHARD WAITE/FOUR SEASONS

HISTORY AND LOCATION The Hotel is a stone’s throw from the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the River Thames. The BeauxArts edifice was built in the 1920s, initially serving as the headquarters of the Port of London Authority and proudly symbolising London’s dominance of trade. Subsequently it housed the headquarters of an insurance firm, before being purchased by Four Seasons in 2007. The Hotel took a decade to restore and, since the area surrounding the centre of London was the foundation for the ancient city of Londinium, many valuable treasures were discovered during the reforms.

NAP TIME This is one hotel that definitely merits breakfast in bed. There are 100 rooms in total – 89 guest rooms and 11 suites. The style reflects a blend of chic modern design and architectural details from the original building, with luxurious interiors in dark grey/ wooden hues and pale creams and beiges. All rooms boast the

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famous Four Seasons Bed, with characteristic all-white sheets and a choice of three different mattress toppers: plush, signature, and firm.

An ideal choice for smaller families is the Grand Heritage Suite, featuring an elegant four-poster bed, modern seating area boasting vivid purple furniture, dining table seating six people and a spacious walk-in wardrobe and dressing area. If a glass of Champagne overlooking the Tower of London is the stuff your dreams are made of, meanwhile, go all out and book the Presidential Suite, with its private outdoor terrace, complete with carefully manicured garden.

Bigger groups and families should consider Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square’s Private Residences, comprising 41 residences ranging in size from one to five bedrooms, inspired on the building’s 1920s origins.

A MEAL FIT FOR A KING AND QUEEN Take your pick from light and casual, to elegant and intimate.

Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square spices up your life with two

destination restaurants (French – La Dame de Pic London) – and Asian (Mei Ume). The latter serves authentic dishes from China and Japan with a modern twist in presentation and choice of ingredients. Enjoy freshly prepared deep fried rolls, pastel hued dumplings or artistically presented sushi.

La Dame de Pic, meanwhile, was recently awarded a Michelin star. The restaurant showcases the unique talent of Chef AnneSophie Pic, who is famed for revisiting ingredients and using unchartered cooking techniques for her dishes, many of which contain coffee. ““Bitterness is a frame of my cuisine, and coffee conjures different kinds: floral, animal, vegetal. The aromatic complexity of coffee is a never ending story,” she told the Financial Times recently.

For a hearty start to the day that will keep you going as you tour the fascinating city that is London, it’s got to be Breakfast by Four Seasons, featuring a choice of English Landmark, Continental or Well Being breakfasts, as well

as an extensive à la carte menu – think avocado on toast, English muffins topped with spinache, ham and poached eggs in Hollandaise sauce, or a bakery basket filled with croissants, pain au chocolate, French baguettes and more – steaming hot, crisp and fresh.

SPA AWAY YOUR CARES Talk about a serene sanctuary in the middle of the one of the world’s most bustling cities! The Spa at Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square harks back to ancient Roman times for its inspiration, with classical columns, clean lines and materials mimicking the precious materials once mined by the Emperors. Measuring 1,680m2, it features a romantic Spa Suite for couples, Hammam Suite, indoor swimming pool, vitality pool, sauna, and more.

Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square is an ideal spot for business meetings, weddings and other events. Check out their website for an idea of how to host an unforgettable conference or party.

i www.fourseasons.com 21/11/2017 10:50

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b the gourmet RESTAURANTS REVIEWS NEWS GASTRONOMY CHEFS WINE

155 El Jardín de Lutz 157 La Loggia

158 Food News

160 Fabián Cangas of Casanis

162 Jesús Madrazo of Contino

STEP INTO A GARDEN OF DELIGHTS AT THE HOTEL FINCA CORTESIN’S EL JARDÍN DE LUTZ, ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF A TUSCAN TERRACE AT LA LOGGIA, MEET VISIONARY CHEF, FABIÁN CANGAS OF CASANIS, AND SAVOUR THE FABULOUS WINES OF CONTINO BY JESÚS MADRAZO.

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AT THE PLAZA VILLAGE IN THE HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

Puente Romano Hotel, Blv. Principe Alfonso Von Hohenlohe, Marbella. www.thaigallerymarbella.com

Tel: 952 818 392

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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2017 — Navidad en Finca Cortesin

2017 — Christmas at Finca Cortesin

Nochebuena / Christmas Eve Navidad / Christmas Day Nochevieja / New Year’s Eve Brunch de Año nuevo / New Year’s Brunch Kabuki Raw El Jardín de Lutz Don Giovanni

Carretera de Casares, s/n 29690 Casares, Málaga. Spain +34 952 937 800 — fincacortesin.com info@hotelcortesin.com

Hotel · Real Estate Golf · Spa · Beach Club

restaurants THE GOURMET b

EL JARDIN DE LUTZ FINCA CORTESIN ...a Garden of Delights

For a superlative dining experience, the route leads straight to Finca Cortesin, the renowned golf and spa resort in the rolling hills near Estepona. Here you will encounter a true garden of delights.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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l Jardín de Lutz is so named because for most of the year the main dining room is a delightful courtyard that overlooks an Elysian garden. It is the setting of an experience that takes dining on the Costa del Sol to new levels and meets those of the finest culinary centres of the world, for Finca Cortesin is not only one of the best hotels in Spain – it is also renowned for the fine dining it offers.

The garden – and restaurant – are named after Lutz Bösing, a master chef who creates beautiful dishes drawn from Spanish and Mediterranean tradition and then elevated to high modern standards.

Here the maître d’hotel and his team of courteous, efficient and friendly waiters do the cuisine justice with a level of service that also blends in with the beautiful surroundings. As the evenings cool, the main focus moves to the interior dining room, but this is certainly no shame as it exudes the warm refinement of a beautifully maintained country estate – a feeling

you sense throughout this hotel, which feels like a palace yet is also intimate and welcoming.

THE HOLY TRINITY OF DINING

If there are three ingredients that are the vital building blocks of any top restaurant they are: ambience, service and of course the cuisine offered. All have to be of a superlative level for an establishment to be classified as ‘fine dining’, let alone be ranked among the best. El Jardín de Lutz achieves this with verve, standing head and shoulders above most restaurants on the Costa del Sol to find itself among a select elite of venues where you can enjoy dining of a truly international standard.

This is true of the elegant décor, whose classic ambience is timeless in its appeal, providing the conditions in which to fully appreciate the accomplished dishes that emerge from the kitchen of Lutz Bösing.

FOOD LOVERS ENJOY!

To dine at El Jardín de Lutz is therefore

g Tel: 952 937 800. www.fincacortesin.com/restaurants/el-jardin-de-lutz

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a pleasure and a privilege, starting the moment you arrive. We were offered a glass of Champagne rosé and a fino wine (La Bota de Fino) with excellent body. They were accompanied by traditional Spanish picos breadsticks to dip in tapenade and a delicious chorizo and cream cheese. We were tempted to enjoy the rare treat of a menu de degustación, commencing with octopus with a spicy Chipotle sauce on a tiny bed of potato.

The palate thus awakened, we were served partridge on a bed of fresh vegetables with a drizzling of jus. With the next dish, a gorgeous vegetable tempura topped with a fried egg and generous shavings of truffle, we enjoyed a very fresh and crisp Albariño, Pazos de Lusco. Though vivacious it was also gentle, which made it a great companion for one of the highlights of the evening – the Caldereta de Bogavante. This lobster stew is inspired by a Spanish classic, though with its choice ingredients, preparation and presentation, is even better than the less refined version

made in homes across the country.

For the beautifully tender beef topped with a béarnaise sauce the accompanying red wine again hailed from Galicia, a region known for its white wines but now also gaining reputation for vintages such as the Ribeira Sacra Lalama that we enjoyed. Full-bodied though light, it was once again a superb pairing. A truly special experience was completed with delightful ‘choc bubbles’ with a soft, crispy exterior and chocolate cream inside. Made with the finest ingredients, it pleases the sweet tooth without being too sugary, which also applies to the Selva Negra – Lutz’s own creative take on the Black Forest theme, combining white chocolate and salted caramel ice cream in a crisp pastry with delicious cherries in a warm fruity sauce. A true sensation!

The same is true of El Jardín de Lutz in general, so whether you prefer the terrace or the ambient dining room, do not deprive yourself of this experience.

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T

NEW YEAR MENU

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Nueva Andalucia

155€ (icl.iva)

T

Marbella

175€ (icl.iva)

RESTAURANTE VÔVEM NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Calle Yedras, s/n, 29660 Marbella, Málaga Reservas: 952 00 34 34 reservations@vovemasador.com

T

T

NEW YEAR MENU

NEW YEAR MENU

205€ (icl.iva)

225€ (icl.iva)

RESTAURANTE MAGNA CAFÉ Av Calderón de la Barca, 29660 Marbella, Málaga

RESTAURANTE EL GRAN GATSBY Dirección: Edificio del Mar, Muelle de Honor, s/n, 29660 Marbella, Málaga

Reservas: 952 92 95 78 info@magnacafe.com

Reservas: 951 77 87 97 reservations@elgrangatsby.com

PASEO MARÍTIMO Dirección: Avenida de Ahumada nº9. 29602 Marbella Reservas: 952 00 88 20 reservations@marbella.vovemasador.com

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restaurants THE GOURMET b

Lunch on a Tuscan Terrace at

LA LOGGIA VILLA PADIERNA PALACE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

I

t was a sunny November’s day when a group of friends and I met at the Villa Padierna Palace Hotel’s scenic La Loggia restaurant. We could think of no better place to enjoy an al fresco lunch than this picturesque outside dining area, reminiscent of a picture-postcard Tuscan villa terrace, overlooking the manicured gardens of the Hotel. As our gaze moved beyond to the Flamingos golf course and scenic lake, we spotted a concentrated bunch of golfers carefully contemplating their next shots. La Loggia serves both as the Hotel’s breakfast spot, and as a meeting point for golfers or discerning locals after a healthy yet scrumptious lunch. It also has an interior dining area for the winter months, where stately columns and red and white stonework make for an elegant yet laidback vibe.

Elena Andrade, maître d’ of La Loggia, is a friendly face who is always there to greet; she informs me of the latest developments at the restaurant, which now serves Mediterranean cuisine with an Italian slant, as well as a Healthy Menu, in which the calories and ingredients of every meal are listed. The Villa Padierna Palace has certainly worked to raise the bar in this sense, with a host of health and

wellness programmes on offer, and low calorie options at La Loggia. Elena tells me that those on a programmed diet (set by a doctor specialising in nutrition) can enjoy their personalised meals at La Loggia, even though their dishes are not on the general menu.

As is usual in a table of friends, some of us were in the mood for heartier fare, and others, were trying to shed excess weight. There was therefore a nice blend of dishes for all tastes. From the Healthy Menu, I chose the Quinoa salad with avocado, ginger and lime sauce (220 calories) – if you were under the impression that it was impossible to prepare a really tasty quinoa dish, allow yourself to be inspired by the beautifully tangy flavour of the sauce, which gave this ingredient a real kick, as did the salty kalamata olives on the side. My companion from the office chose something heartier – arancini Siciliano, warm and crisp on the outside and deliciously gooey and warm on the inside. The third member of our group, meanwhile, tucked into a warm salad of goat’s cheese, walnuts and pears in syrup – a beautiful blend of salty and sweet.

Our mains were equally satisfying; I ordered a steamed snapper with

aubergine purée (only 153 calories yet delightfully filling), which was tender and hearty as this prized fish tends to be, the aubergine purée adding a dash of magic to the simple yet unbeatable flavour. My colleagues sampled the organic-fed chicken breast with aromatic herbs and a rocket and avocado salad (a generous portion with only 165 calories) and the veal scallopini ‘al estilo Saltimbocca’ – buttery in its tenderness and topped with a creamy pasta. To accompany our meal, we sipped on a Sierra de Málaga La Ola del Melillero – a lovely dry Pedro Ximénez made in Montes de Málaga from bodega Victoria Ordóñez.

La Loggia serves international wines as well, but the wine menu boasts a strong Spanish/Andalusian focus.

The dessert list is traditional Italian; we shared a tiramisu (bearing a ‘real’, brewed coffee taste) and a lemon meringue tart (sinfully sweet and a perfect treat for being so ‘good’ in our choice of aperitifs and mains).

The terrace at La Loggia is an ambience which should be savoured slowly, over a hot cup of coffee, as we did, while discussing the beautiful architecture that surrounded us and the stunning neo-classical sculpture that abounds in every corner of this

g Urb. Los Flamingos Golf, CN2340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150. www.villapadierna.es

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evocative hotel. The Villa Padierna Palace has different restaurants for every season and market – thus, those into Japanese cuisine enjoy high-end authentic fare during peak season at Santoku, sun lovers head to the stylish Beach Club, keen gourmets enjoy a wide array of creative and Japanese delights at La Veranda (which only opens for dinner), and golfers, business executives and groups of friends and families head for La Loggia on a day when top quality food prepared simply and with passion, is just what the heart and soul crave.

This Christmas, Villa Padierna is planning a special Christmas Eve dinner at La Loggia as well as La Veranda, featuring an exclusive array of dishes, including stuffed quail in teriyaki sauce, carabineer bisque and beef wellington with Perigueux sauce and Duchess potatoes, a Grand Marnier soufflé, and so much more.

They will also be hosting an equally festive Christmas lunch, and New Year’s Eve gala, as well as a ‘Bloody Mary’ brunch on January 1. g Open daily for breakfast from 7:30am to 11am, for lunch from 1pm to 5pm, and for dinner from 7:30pm to 11pm.

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b THE GOURMET news

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

BISTRO POINT Opens in Gibraltar Located in Gibraltar’s southernmost point, new Gibraltar dining haven, Bistro Point, features exquisite views of North Africa (including Ceuta and the Rif Mountains) and the Spanish coast. That being said, the main focus here is on the experience as a whole. From the highly-trained service staff, to Executive Chef Ben Hayes’ gourmet creations, the entire concept was designed to exceed expectations. Besides excellent service, the staff accommodates a wide range of needs, including events and catering. One of Bistro Point’s unique factors is the menu, which changes completely every two weeks, in order to preserve the element of novelty. You’re always in for a surprise, but the constant is quality. g Bistro Point, University of Gibraltar, Europa Point, Gibraltar.

Tel: +350 200 76588.

CHRISTMAS MENU

AT DA BRUNO Da Bruno once again brings its special Italian touch to Christmas, with a series of group menus ranging from around €33 per person. Dishes in the menus include salad, prawns, entrecôte or sea bass, tiramisu and more, depending on your choice. These menus are available only at Da Bruno Sul Mare in Marbella and Da Bruno a Cabopino. Da Bruno restaurants also host memorable New Year’s Eve gala dinners and parties. i For further information, www.dabruno.com

Gastronomic Events at ABASTOS & VIANDAS GOURMET MARKET Abastos & Viandas, the gourmet market in the centre of Marbella, recently hosted a number of fun culinary events, including a practical sushi workshop (in which Japanese cuisine lovers learned to make nigiri, maki and uramaki), a children’s dessert workshop, a beer tasting event, a cheese buffet, and a mushroom festival. The gourmet market is therefore not just a venue to enjoy food from around the world, but also a place to learn more about the culinary arts. i www.abastosyviandas.com

AN UNFORGETTABLE

FESTIVE MEAL at Reserva del Higuerón

As the holiday season approaches, companies and families alike start to think about where to enjoy a special meal.

Reserva del Higuerón is making your choice a lot easier, with a host of festive menus for businesses, as well as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve meals for private diners (featuring a DJ, live music and cotillon).

Special gratuity prizes are given for specific group packages (including a free water circuit experience at the Nagomi Spa, one night at the Hotel for two persons, a romantic dinner at AKIRA Japanese restaurant, and a special price for a stay at the hotel). i For further information, www.reservadelhigueronresort.com

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b THE GOURMET profile

FABIÁN CANGAS

OF CASANIS Distilling the Flavours of World Cuisine

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

F

abián Cangas must have had his destiny laid out before him when he was born to a family of restaurateurs in Argentina. From his earliest days, the inviting aromas and the experience of preparing delicious meals alongside his family attracted him like few other pursuits, and when he had to choose a career path, he enrolled in cooking school, heading to Europe soon after graduation. “My brother was in Marbella at the time so it seemed like a logical starting point,” he says.

Soon after his arrival, he met Guy Sirre – who had just launched what is now a stalwart of exquisite dining – Casanis – a French/Belgian bistro set within a quaint two-storey house in the heart of the Old Town.

Almost two decades down the track, Fabián is still heading up the kitchen at Casanis, though

his lust for life and travel have led him to take frequent breaks to a number of countries, including France, Belgium, the United States and Australia. “Guy is a supportive boss who always enables me to programme breaks; in order to stay at the top of our game it is important to travel, to discover new trends in food and service, to see what is happening in the world.”

Of all the countries he has called home, Australia is particularly memorable. “Australia has the very best of everything – fruit, vegetables, fish and seafood… and its gastronomy is heavily influenced

by Asia.” Also memorable was Fabián’s stay in the Big Apple – where he was Head Chef of a French/Spanish restaurant. “In a bustling city like New York, you are able to savour different food

every day. There are excellent establishments serving all types of world cuisine.”

Evidence of all his travels is present in the Casanis menu, particularly in the plethora of carpaccios, tartares, and Asian dishes. “Casanis is primarly French/ Belgian in inspiration, which is evident in our menu. My penchant for Asian cuisine mainly shows up in our daily specials (of which there are between five to seven on the average day).” On the day of my meeting with the Chef, one temptation was the Thai Mussels – think fresh juicy mussels cooked in a yellow curry with kefir lime leaves, lemongrass, just a touch of ginger and coconut milk – delicious!

Fabián is additionally inspired by organic, seasonal produce. Casanis has its own ecological garden around 10 minutes by foot from the restaurant. The Chef also visits the market on a daily basis: “The specials are determined by what I encounter at the stalls on a given day. My dishes are influenced by the Italian, Japanese, Greek or Thai traditions – the ingredients I find provide the inspiration.”

Meanwhile, the items that

are always on the menu include beef tartare, grilled tuna and beef Wellington – possibly the perfect dish on a cold winter’s evening. As for entrées, some of the restaurant’s biggest sellers are the nems, fish soup, or foie gras – revelatory of the variety available at Casanis.

The Casanis Group now owns a total of four restaurants: the nearby Café Flore (serving Italian cuisine), La Tapa Casanis (a stone’s throw from Casanis, located in a romantic square where live jazz music on Fridays and Casanis-style snacks make for memorable evenings), and La Plage Casanis (a seaside haven in the Coto Chico urbanisation, serving Mediterranean food and featuring live music and entertainment). Fabián was once Head Chef of both Casanis and Café Flore, but now prefers to reserve all his energy for the baby he helped build from scratch: Casanis – the heart and soul of a group known for excellence of produce, cooking skill and ambience. May this talented Chef continue to find inspiration in the world around him. g C/ Ancha 8, Marbella.

Tel: 952 900 450. www.casanis.es

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b THE GOURMET wine

JESÚS

MADRAZO

CONTINO AND BEYOND

Jesús Madrazo is a seminal figure in quality Rioja who shocked the wine world at the end of September when he announced that after 23 years he was abandoning his beloved Contino to do other things.

F

or, although 100% owned by the now giant CVNE since 2013, the wine world has long considered this fabulous, high quality estate the personal domain of the Madrazo family, as way back in the 1960s, it was his father, José Madrazo Real de Asúa, who, working for CVNE, realised that the grapes that had provided the basis for the prestigious CVNE Viña Real Gran Reserva since the 1960s were primarily from a very particular vineyard in Rioja Alavesa.

Being a major figure within CVNE, by virtue of family association, not to mention a board member, and believing that the real future of Rioja lay in terroir-focused wines, he persuaded them that they should make every effort to buy the estate – which, way back, consisted of just 10 hectares of vineyards, with the rest comprising wheat and barley.

Corporate machinery moves slowly, however, as did negotiations with the myriad of small growers/ farmers who owned the 62 hectares in question, and so this did not happen until 1973, at which point CVNE ended up with just 50 per cent of the property.

The first estate wine was made in 1974 and released in 1978 under the banner of S.V.L. Sociedad

Vinícola Laserna and this would be one of Rioja’s first single estates – well before Remelluri or the revamped Marqués de Murrieta – defying the region’s cross-sub-regional blending tradition.

It would be known as Contino as of 1980.

Located in a 100 hectare bend of the River Ebro, facing south, at 400 metres in altitude, 15 minutes from Laguardia, in Rioja Alavesa, the estate consists of alluvial soils of which 70 per cent are pebbly, 5 per cent sandy and 25 per cent calcareous clay, essentially consisting of three spectacular terraces that splay continuously down to the river with the sun dancing across the vineyards from east to west and the vines, in good times, enjoying full solar exposure all day long.

The oldest plots in the vineyard consist of white grapes: Malvasía planted in the 1930s, Viura in the 1940s and 1950s, and Garnacha Blanca in the 1980s Madrazo Senior meantime made just a single cuvée every year from 1974 through 1994: Contino Reserva – though in 1977, 1979, 1992 and 1993 he produced nothing, considering these vintages of insufficient quality and selling the

grapes elsewhere.

He remained General Manager until 1999, retired from the company in 2001, and died as recently as 2015, working hand in hand with the top brass of CVNE; though the wine-making and ambassadorial mantle had passed to his son, Jesús, in 1995.

The latter continued the same philosophy (producing nothing in famously rain-sodden 2013 during which the estate was totally wiped out by a single hailstorm), succeeding his papá as Director of the Estate in 1999. As of when, he would begin to innovate extensively, adding such new offerings as Contino Graciano (releasing the region’s first 100 per cent example in 1994), Contino Viña del Olivo (first release 1995), as well as a Contino Blanco (2010), and in between times, a most polished Gran Reserva, not to mention a fabulous but intermittently produced Contino Rosado.

His efforts with Graciano are particularly admirable – as, in common with Chilean Carménère – this is a very tricky variety indeed which only shines when properly ripe; for if not, it produces densely hued and almost hostile wines that are high in acid and famously

vegetal, that evolve very slowly (if at all) into pungent spicy flavours such as ginger and curry; which is perhaps why it is traditional in Rioja to include only a very small percentage in red blends destined for long ageing.

Popular in the 1880s, production subsequently dwindled given its low yields, but thanks to Jesús’s pioneering efforts in proving that it does indeed provide ‘grace’ (hence its name), plantings in Rioja have risen over the last 2 decades from perhaps 80 hectares to around 1,000 – even if this still represents only about 2 per cent of Rioja’s vineyards.

Meantime, with CVNE becoming ever larger and increasingly calling the commercial and structural shots at Contino, Jesús decided a few years ago that, despite the awesome Madrazo family track record, long term he would enjoy life much more doing other things.

Accordingly, therefore, he most honourably oversaw the introduction of new, young, talented Aragonese winemaker Jorge Navascués in August of this year and held his hand throughout this year’s harvest in order that the legacy continue as seamlessly as possible.

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A SELECTION Z CONTINO RESERVA 2012 (13.75%)

85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and a mixed 5% of Mazuelo and Garnacha, this is the winery’s popular flagship offering, representing 80% of the estate’s production. Steel-fermented to then be aged in used American and French oaks (40/60) for two years, with a small element of Eastern European, it then rests in the bottle for a further two years prior to release.

A hot year, like its predecessor, the grapes were picked much earlier than usual and the result is pale plum in hue and of medium intensity with a combination of delicious strawberry notes, understated oak and most attractive herbal elements.

Lively and with nice acidity.

Z CONTINO GRACIANO 2014 (13.4%) – production 3,060 bottles.

100% Graciano.

Picked at optimum ripeness (super important for this variety) and in two phases from two different vineyards planted respectively in 1979 and 1989, this was fermented in French oak with the following 15 months in a combination of new French and Hungarian oaks (90/10). It then rested for a year in the bottle.

Fabulous dark plum in colour and in flavour densely packed with springy red fruit, with wonderful underlying spice. More than drinkable – particularly with game or fatty meat dishes – its exuberant acidity should also see it improve for a year or two.

Z VIÑA DEL OLIVO 2014 (13.75%) – production 9,697 bottles.

90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano from one specific plot planted in 1980, the centrepiece of which is a 700 year old olive tree. Fermented, as above, in large French oak vats, it subsequently spent 17 months in a combination of French, American and Hungarian barriques followed by a year in the bottle.

Dark damson in hue, this is enticing and intensely flavoured; very aromatic, its fruit most harmoniously integrated with particularly polished oak, there is prominent but understated spice and tannin too. Cellar for 2 to 3 years so that it rounds out a tad and is appreciated at its most gracious.

Z CONTINO GRAN RESERVA 2010 (14.4%) – limited production

and only in Magnums.

70% Tempranillo, 15% Graciano, 12% Garnacha and 3% Viura.

From a famously cold vintage, the Tempranillo was specially selected from old vineyards of around 60 years in age, and the wine spent three years in new American and French oak followed by three years in the bottle.

Good colour and substantially flavoured, this will make for perfect drinking this X-mas as despite still fairly vigorous tannins, it’s packed with red fruits but also has pronounced toffee and treacle elements indicating its maturity, together with some nice herbal notes. Long, impeccably balanced, and more or less at its peak.

fill the mouth and are offset by ever so subtle oak with just a suggestion of cocoa. Good tannins too but gentle.

Z EL SACRAMENTO 2015

As above, but with some 8% Graciano, this was a warmer, riper vintage which is reflected in its rather grippier, more structured character. Oak, tannin and underlying juicy blackcurrants vie with each other to produce a rather bigger wine that has more energy than its predecessor and will be glorious when it’s released.

Z EL SACRAMENTO 2013

Old vine Tempranillo with some 15% Graciano, this is steel fermented with some 16 months in mainly 2nd and 3rd use French oak.

Darkly hued, smoky and spicy with a pronounced black fruit character, great mouth feel, and a long, slightly rustic finish with a trace of eucalyptus.

The current vintage is a most impressive offering which involved major field selection given the wet, low yield production.

Z EL SACRAMENTO 2014

As above, but with just 6% Graciano, this was a very fine, textbook vintage which veritably sings: immensely dark in colour; round, rich, tangy blackcurrants

NEW HORIZONS One of Jesús´s new projects is the most ambitious Viñas Leizaola.

This a potential 20 hectare estate just outside Laguardia, where – in conjunction with Belgian born Etienne Cordonnier Leizaola, a wine broker of Basque origin whose family have a clutch of interesting pedigree estates in Bordeaux – and in league with local viticulturist Jesús Velilla, the trio (Holy Trinity perhaps? – given not just the name of the wine but the fact that many of the old vineyards they have bought belonged to an old religious order) have, since 2011, been making a single, estate produced wine.

Said wine, El Sacramento, (production thus far approximately 25,000 bottles per annum), has already wowed the critical fraternity and though their winery is still under construction at the epicenter of the now 11.5 hectares that they so far own and envisaged to be operative by next year, their ‘garage-produced’ vintages are quite breathtaking and totally in keeping with the Madrazo father and son philosophy.

All power to him! e

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. . THE GUIDE listings

the guide

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 Marina, Benalmádena.

Tel: 952 563 673

under €25

€25 – €40

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

JACKS SMOKEHOUSE

EL BANCO

Open seven days a week from noon till late. Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 813 625

Open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to midnight. Urb. Aloha Pueblo, Local 35, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 907 570

MR. GOURMET BURGER Open from 6pm ‘til late every evening.

Avda. Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 785 257

GAUCHOS

ROUTE 66

HACIENDA PATAGONICA

Open 10am until midnight every day.

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ de la Acera de

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village.

CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 897 744

LISTINGS PET NEWS WHAT’S ON STARS FAMILY FUN

€40 – €60

€60 plus

la Marina 2, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 968

ORIGEN Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Gregorio Marañón s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 968

RUTA 40 Open from 9am to 12 midnight daily. C.C. El Zoco, Sitio de Calahonda. Tel: 951 133 737

french

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

CASA MONO

belgian

Open Monday to Saturday from 1pm to 11pm. C/ Calderón Estébanez 19, Marbella. Tel: 952 774 578

MYTILUS

LE BISTROMAN

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

eco

THE ORGANIC CAFÉ Open daily from 9am to 10pm. Esquina C/ Martínez Catena and Paseo Marítimo Fuengirola. Tel: 951 255 563

VALDERRAMA RESTAURANT 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

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gluten-free

EL GAUCHO DE BANÚS

JAIPUR PALACE

ALBERTS

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

At the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile.

Tel: 952 820 900

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle Benabola 9-11, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 167

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Cabopino.

Tel: 952 836 886

EL RANCHO DEL PUERTO

Open every night except Tuesday for dinner. CN340, km 194, next to Camping Cabopino, Marbella. Tel: 951 310 004

JAIPUR PURPLE

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

CELICIOSO

greek

RED PEPPER Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 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

CABAÑA NAGÜELES Open Monday to Thursday from 11am to 2am and on Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 3am. Urb. La Carolina, Marbella. Tel: 951 134 083

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 Open daily for dinner from 7.30pm. Galerías Paniagua.

Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 528

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

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

MARBELLA CLUB GRILL Open every night for dinner. Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd.

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

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

Tel: 952 867 306

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

VOVEM Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Odeon, Locales 9-10, C/ Las Yedras, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 003 434

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

Tel: 952 888 353

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

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

international 11&11 RESTOBAR

Open Monday to Thursday from 7pm ‘til late, on Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 4pm and from 7pm ‘til late and on Sunday from 10am ‘til late. Dársena de Levante, Local 39, Estepona Port.

Tel: 951 703 060

ACINIPO

AMANHAVIS ARENAL BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT Open daily from 11am until late. Urb. Playa del Arenal, Avda. Cervantes s/n, El Rosario, Marbella. Tel: 951 507 426

AVANTO Open for events only. C/ Rota 9, Mijas Costa, La Cala de Mijas. Tel: 952 587 539

BABOO LOUNGE AND RESTAURANT 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

BAHIA BEACH Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 146.5, Casares. Tel: 951 704 884

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday. C.C. El Zoco, Sitio de Calahonda, Mijas Costa.

Tel: 607 680 999

BARBQ ARTESANAL BURGERS

AIDAN’S BAR & GRILL

BECKITTS

Open Thursday to Tuesday for dinner from 5:30pm.

Closed Wednesdays. C/ 4/5 Montemayor, Cancelada (opposite the Farmacia). Tel: 952 887 828

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

CORIANDER

AL ROLO

Open daily from 1pm to 11pm. Paseo Marítimo Rey de España 4, Local 2-4, Fuengirola. Tel: 951 903 807

Open from 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11pm daily.

At Reserva del Higuerón. Avda. del Higuerón 48, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 661 174

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday afternoon and all of Monday. At the Hotel Puente Romano. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 607 011

VOVEM Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Duque de Ahumada, Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 008 822

indian

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C/ Jacinto Benavente 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 656

BIBO

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

Tel: 952 815 607

BONO BEACH Open from 1pm to 7pm in the Spring. Urb. Costabella, Playa del Arenal, Avda. de Cervantes s/n, Elviria. Tel: 952 839 236

BRUNINGS Kitchen continuously open Monday to Friday from 1pm to 11pm. Saturday – dinner only. Closed Sunday.

Las Palmeras 19, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 786 156

CAFÉ DE RONDA

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

CLARO! RESTAURANT & BEACH CLUB Open daily for lunch and Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 800 873

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

CORTIJO FAIN

EL GRAN GASTBY

FINCA BESAYA

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Algar, km. 3, Arcos de la Frontera, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 704 131

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle de Honor, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 778 797

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

EL JARDÍN DE LUTZ

FINCA EL FORJADOR

D.O.M

Open every night for dinner from 7:30pm. At Hotel Finca Cortesin, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

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

EL JINETE

FONDA RESTAURANTE EL POSTILLÓN

Open nightly for dinner. At the Hotel Meliá Marbella Banús. C/ Mario Vargas Llosa s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 912 764 747

DON LEONE

CAFETERÍA KE

D-WINE

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, s/n. Tel: 956 790 333

Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. C.C. Azalea, Edif. A, CN340, km 173, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 951 339 309

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, local 24-25, Estepona. Tel: 951 217 871

CASANIS Open every day from 6pm except Sundays.

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

CELIMA Open every day for lunch and dinner. Hotel Hermitage, Ctra. de Casares, Casares.

Tel: 952 895 639.

Andalucía Plaza s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 814 000

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

Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 7pm.

Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 149

CAMURÍ

At the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Blvd.

Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

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

EL CORZO

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

EL LAGO Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. Urb. Elviria Hills.

Avda. Las Cumbres s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 371

EL MIRADOR

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:30pm to 11pm. Ctra. de Mijas, km. 1, A-387, Alhaurín El Grande.

Tel: 951 254 520

GALERIA SAN PEDRO Open from 11am until midnight. Closed Sundays. Avda Las Palmeras 15, San Pedro Alcántara.

Tel: 952 780 927

EL BOLERO

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

Tel: 952 809 500

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

EL OCEANO BEACH HOTEL RESTAURANT & SPA

EL CAMPANARIO

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

HERMOSA

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 Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm.

Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino.

Tel: 952 837 483

Open every day for lunch. Open for dinner on Friday and Saturday. CN 340, km. 168, Estepona.

Tel: 952 880 126

EL CASTILLO

CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. C/ El Pilar s/n, Benahavís. Tel: 681 294 442

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

EL CHIRINGUITO

GD GOURMET DELI MARBELLA

EL RESTAURANTE DEL CASINO

HILLS CAFE

Open every day for dinner from 8pm-4am. Hotel

Open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 6pm and

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Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Closed on Monday. Tel: 952 856 171

HORIZON STEAKHOUSE Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Antonio Machado s/n, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 560 094

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

Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm.

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

LA CABAÑA DEL MAR 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

1, Urb. La Virginia, Marbella. Tel: 626 273 882

LOS ARCOS

LA PLAGE DE CASANIS

Open every night for dinner. Hotel Meliá La Quinta, Urb. La Quinta Golf s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 762 000

Open Monday to Wednesday 10am – 7.30pm and Thursday to Sunday 10am –10pm. Urb. Coto Chico 4D, Marbella. Tel: 952 837 862

LA TAPA Open nightly for dinner. Plaza Santo Cristo 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 901 040

LA CANTINA DEL GOLF

LA VERANDA

Open every evening for dinner. Playa del Rodeo, Marbella. Tel: 951 319 372

Open for breakfast and lunch until 8pm. Closed Sunday. Flamingo Golf Club, Cancelada, Benahavís.

Tel: 951 318 815

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner.

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

JOFFREY’S

LA FAMIEKE

LA VERANDAH

Open everyday evening for dinner from 5.30 pm.

CN340 km 200, La Cala de Mijas Costa. Tel: 674 636 321

Open nightly for dinner except Sunday. C/ Cruz 5, Plaza Puente de Ronda. Old Town Marbella. Tel: 952 775 412

KARMA

LA GRANADA DIVINO

Open week days for dinner at 7:30pm and weekends for lunch and dinner, closed Tuesdays. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 136. Playa Guadiaro, Torre-guadiaro, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 615 998

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

Tel: 952 815 736

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday.

C/ de las Piedras, Gaucín. Tel: 951 709 075

KAVA

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

IL MARE

Open nightly for dinner. Plaza de Los Naranjos, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 824 108

LAGUNA BEACH RESTAURANTE C.C. Laguna Village, local R1, Estepona.

Tel: 952 800 873

LA BIZNAGA

LA LOGGIA

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

LA TERRAZA

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

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

LA BRISA

Open nightly for dinner except Mondays. C/ La Tienda

LA TIENDA

LA VERANDA LOBBY BAR

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

LOS NARANJOS RESTAURANT Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Urb. Los Naranjos de Marbella. Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 816 105

M10 Open Monday to Saturday from 5pm and Sunday from 10am. Frontline of Estepona Puerto Deportivo.

Tel: 952 636 430

MACAAO BEACH Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Jose Echegaray, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 113 618

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

MAGNA CAFÉ

LIMA

MARE NOSTRUM

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 6pm to 12am and for lunch on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.

Plaza Practicante Manuel Cantos 2, Marbella.

Tel: 952 866 630

Open daily for breakfast and dinner. At the Hotel Amàre Marbella. Avda. Severo Ochoa 8, Marbella. Tel: 800 843 493

LES CUBES

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Oasis Club, CN340, km. 183, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 396

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

C/ Calderón de la Barca, s/n. Tel: 952 929 578

MC CAFÉ

L’OLIVE

MESSINA

Open daily from 8am-6pm. At La Reserva Club. Avda. de la Reserva s/n, Sotogrande. Tel: 956 785 252

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday. Avda. Severo Ochoa, 12, Marbella. Tel: 952 864 895

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MIRAFLORES GOLF RESTAURANT

SUITE

Tel: 952 813 464

Benalmádena. Tel: 952 446 460

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

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

ARAGONA

NUNOS

Open every day for dinner. Avda. del Mar 3, Marbella.

Tel: 951 134 322

Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Caleta Hotel.

Catalan Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 76501

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from 8pm ‘til late. Monte Paraíso Golf, Marbella. Tel: 951 217 272

TANINO

ARETUSA

O MAMMA MIA

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

Open daily for dinner. Front line P. Banús.

Tel: 952 812 898

MOMO MARBELLA

TERRA SANA

CARPACCIO

Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner.

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

Open Monday to Saturday from 6pm to midnight. C/ Tetuán 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 560

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

Open nightly for dinner, except Sunday. Avda. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 30, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 760

Open Monday to Sunday 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.

C.C. Parque Miramar, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 663 937.

Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 951 915 069

MONKEY CLUB

THE ENGLISH GARDEN

Open nightly for dinner. At the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 607 018

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm to 11pm and Sunday from 1.30 to 9.30pm. Closed Mondays. Avda.

España 16, Urb. Buenavista, Sitio de Calahonda. Tel: 952 930 252

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 11, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 380

MOJO

MOMO MARBELLA GOLDEN MILE

NELI Gs Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Benavista, Estepona. Tel: 952 928 576

NŌMŌ BRASSERIE Open for lunch and dinner every day except for Sunday. Bulevar de San Pedro, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 951 702 168

OCHO Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 12, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 460 232 / 648 502 822

OLIVIA’S LA CALA Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C/ Torreón 13, Las Lagunas de Mijas. Tel: 952 494 935

THE LITTLE GERANIUM Open Tuesday to Saturday from 7pm to 11pm. CN340, km 178.5, Marbella. Tel: 951 354 213

THE MEETING ROOM Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays. Avda.

Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella.

Tel: 952 772 577

THE ORANGE TREE Open every evening from 6:30 pm-11 pm. Plaza General Chinchilla 1, Plaza de los Naranjos, Marbella.

Tel: 952 924 613.

THE PLAYWRIGHT

CASA TUA Open every evening for dinner. C/ Ortiz de Molinillo 14, Marbella. Tel: 951 712 227

CIBO DA BRUNO Open all day. 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

TROCADERO ARENA

IL TARTUFO

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Torrequebrada, Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 441 414

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

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from 6:30pm. C/ Tetuán 9, Marbella. Tel: 951 087 323

TROCADERO BEACH

LA FIORENTINA

ROJO

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. El Pilar, Local 11 (opposite the Crown Plaza Hotel), Estepona.

Tel: 952 885 765

SEA GRILL

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

Tel: 952 894 191

At the Puente Romano Beach Club. Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 187, Marbella.

Tel: 952 820 900

VILLA PADIERNA CLUB DE MAR

SHANTI-SOM – AMRITA

ZEST

Open Monday to Thursday from 1.30pm to 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

Open Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 4:30pm and for cocktail hour from 4:30pm to 8pm. Centro Plaza, Marbella. Tel: 951 319 151

SKINA

Open Wednesday to Monday for dinner. Closed Tuesday. Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella.

Tel: 952 858 868

Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday to Friday and Saturday for dinner only. Closed Sunday and Monday.

C/ Aduar 12, Old Town, Marbella.

Tel: 952 765 277

SOLEO MARBELLA BEACH CLUB RESTAURANT

Open daily for lunch from 1pm to 6pm.

CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 647 791 515

ZOZOI

italian AL DENTE

Open daily from 11am to 8pm. Avda. Duque de Ahumada s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 562 887

Open every day for dinner. Closed on Mondays. Urb. Jardines del Puerto, local 12, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 181

SOLLO

AMORE E FANTASÍA

Open nightly for dinner except Sundays. Urb. Reserva del Higuerón, Málaga. Tel: 951 385 622

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

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner at the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile.

Tel: 952 771 798

VILLA TIBERIO

RESTAURANTE ROYAL

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paseo del Parque s/n, Cádiz. Tel: 956 795 012

SERAFINA

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

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

Open 1pm to 3:30pm and 7:30pm to 11:30pm daily except Sunday evenings and Monday. Avda.

Andalucía 6, Local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 951 531 777

Open every day from 12pm ‘til midnight for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinogolf de Don Carlos 34, Elviria.

Tel: 952 850 148

Open every night for dinner from 7:30pm. At Hotel Finca Cortesin, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

Open every day from 10am to 12 am. Complejo Benabola 13, Beach Side, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 929 055

SAVOR

ROSMARINO DELLA PIAZZA

DON GIOVANI

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Guadalmansa, CN340, km 164, Estepona.

Tel: 952 798 449

TROCADERO SOTOGRANDE

RISTORANTE SAN MARTINO Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinares de Elviria s/n, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 702

VALPARAÍSO

GOLD RESTAURANT

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday.

C/ Granada, 44, Málaga. Tel: 952 227 486

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 035

Open nightly for dinner. Ctra. Mijas – Fuengirola, km.

14, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 485 996

TIKITANO

PUENTE ROMANO BEACH CLUB

PORTOFINO LAGUNA VILLAGE

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

FRASCATI

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

Open daily from 12 noon. Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 669

DA PAOLO

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Manzana, Locales 8-11, Pueblo Los Arcos, Elviria.

Tel: 952 830 868

PASSION CAFÉ

PIZZERIA PICASSO

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

mediterranean

RESTAURANTE BAR CARMEN Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona.

Tel: 952 806 739

oriental

ASIAN FUSION BING Open 12.30pm-4.30pm and 6.30pm to 12am daily.

Fuengirola, Paseo Marítimo, L-42C. Tel: 952 470 218

ASIATICO ZEN

LA PAPPARDELLA DI ESTEPONA

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Tuesday lunch. C/ Lirios s/n, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 817 691

Open every day for lunch and dinner from 1pm to midnight. Puerto Deportivo de Estepona.

Tel: 952 802 144

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Ctra.

Istan km 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 906 674

LA PAPPARDELLA SUL MARE

DRAGÓN DE ORO

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

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

LA TRATTORIA Open daily from 7pm to 11pm.

At the Don Carlos Leisure Resort & Spa. Avenida Zurita, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

LEONARDO DA VINCI 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

MADE IN SARDINIA Open every night for dinner. C.C. Cristamar, Avda.

Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 608

MARBELLA PIZZA KITCHEN Open daily from 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11pm. Avda. del Prado s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 908 438

BAMBOO

GENJI SUSHI BAR Open from 1:30pm-4pm and 8pm to 11pm. C/ Ramón Gomez de la Serna, 4, Edificio Balmoral. Marbella. Tel: 951 530 955

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

KABUKI RAW Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. At Finca Cortesín Hotel. Ctra. Casares s/n, Casares.

Tel: 952 937 800

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

METRO

KAMA KURA

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Puerto Marina,

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 8-11pm. The San

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. THE GUIDE listings

Roque Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 127, San Roque, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 613 030

MAKITAKE Open daily for lunch and dinner.

C/ Ribera s/n (above disco Seven), Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 592

MECA Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pino Golf, Don Carlos, Local 1, Elviria, Marbella.

Tel: 952 830 365 / 658 646 829

NOBU Open nightly for dinner. At the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 778 686

OMBÚ Open from 7pm to 11pm, Wednesday to Sunday. At the Don Carlos Leisure Resort & Spa. Avenida Zurita, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

OSAKA

Tel: 952 888 710

SUKHO THAI Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday. Centro Comercial Marbellamar. Tel: 952 770 550

SUSHI DES ARTISTES (HIDEYOSHI WAGYU) Open every day for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking. Tel: 952 857 403

SUSHI KATSURA 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

TAI PAN Open seven days a week for dinner. H. Puente Romano, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 177, Marbella.

Tel: 952 777 893

TA-KUMI Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Gregorio Marañón 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 839

Deportivo 13, Edif. Poniente, Estepona.

Tel: 951 318 445

TOP THAI Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, 64, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 319 778. Also at C.C. Laguna Village, Local 11-13, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 661

TSE YANG DIMSUM CLUB Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sundays.

At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 909 990

WAGAMAMA Open daily for lunch and dinner. 19 Ocean Village promenade, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 44182

WASABI Open daily from 1.30 pm for lunch and dinner.

C.C. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 577

scandinavian ALOHA RESTAURANT

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

TEPPANYAKI SAMURAI Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Manolete 20, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 549

Open every evening for dinner from 6pm to 11.30pm.

Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 811 285

SAKURA

THAI GALLERY

SKANDIES

Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Avda. José Banús, 5, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 817 536

At Plaza Village at the Hotel Puente Romano.

Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 818 392

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm. Closed Mondays. Avda. Antonio Belón, 26 (behind the lighthouse), Marbella. Tel: 952 776 323

SANTOKU

THAI STYLE

Open daily for dinner. At the Villa Padierna Palace Hotel. CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 180

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

Tel: 952 813 675

SAPPORO Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Costa del Sol, upper level. CN 340, km. 166 (Estepona).

THAPA THAI Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Puerto

RESTAURANTE LA MARINA Open every day from 1-4.30pm and 8pm until 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 daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de la Victoria, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 170

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

PALAPA Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 165

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

CASA DE LA ERA

seafood

Open only for lunch – call for times. Ctra. de Ojén, km 0.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 625

EL BARLOVENTO

CASA FERNANDO

Open from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 790 370

Open from Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Avda. del Mediterráneo s/n, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 853 344

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listings THE GUIDE .

HACIENDA

Benavente 33, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 511

www.esteponagolf.com

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

VILA DO GROVE

FINCA CORTESÍN GOLF CLUB

MARBELLA CLUB GOLF RESORT

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Las Malvas, Edif. On Line, Local 2, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 813 415

18 holes, Par 72, Tel: 952 937 883. www.golfcortesin.es

18 holes, Par 73. Tel: 952 113 239

FLAMINGOS GOLF CLUB

18 holes. Tel: 952 830 500

*golf guide

18 holes, Par. Tel: 952 889 157. www.flamingos-golf.com

MIJAS GOLF

ALCAIDESA LINKS

GOLF RÍO REAL

MIRAFLORES GOLF

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday.

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

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 791 0400. www.alcaidesa.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 756 733

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 931 960

GOLF TORREQUEBRADA

MONTE MAYOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

ALHAURÍN GOLF

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 442 742

18 holes. Tel: 952 113 088

LA MORAGA BISTRÓ

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 595 970. www.alhauringolf.com

GUADALMINA GOLF

PARADOR MÁLAGA DEL GOLF

36 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 883 375

18 holes. Tel: 952 381 255

ALMENARA GOLF

LA CALA GOLF RESORT

REAL CLUB DE GOLF LAS BRISAS

27 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 582 027. www.sotogrande.com

54 holes, Pars 71, 72 and 73.

Tel: 952 669 033. www.lacala.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 810 875

ALOHA GOLF CLUB

LA DAMA DE NOCHE

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 785 014

18 holes. Tel: 952 907 085. www.clubdegolfaloha.com

9 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 818 150

SAN ROQUE CLUB

LA DUQUESA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 613 030

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

ATALAYA GOLF

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 890 425

SANTA CLARA GOLF

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 882 812. www.atalaya-golf.com

LA QUINTA GOLF

18 holes. Tel: 952 850 111

SANTA MARIA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

CABOPINO GOLF

27 holes, Par 72.Tel: 952 762 390. www.laquintagolf.com

MESÓN EL ADOBE

18 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 850 282

LA RESERVA SOTOGRANDE

SOTOGRANDE CLUB DE GOLF

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays.

Avda. La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3, Marbella.

Tel. 600 003 144

CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA

18 holes. Tel: 956 695 209

18 holes. Tel: 956 785 012

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 951 703 355

LA ZAGALETA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

VALDERRAMA

CLUB DE GOLF LA CAÑADA

18 holes. Members only. Tel: 952 695 209

MI TABERNA

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 794 100

LAURO GOLF 18 HOLES

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 791 200. www.valderrama.com

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

CN340, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

EL PARAISO CLUB DE GOLF

Alhaurín de la Torre. Tel: 952 412 767

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 883 835

LOS ARQUEROS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PAELLAS Y MÁS

ESTEPONA GOLF

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 784 600

CALAHONDA

Open daily from 10:30am to 11pm. C/ Jacinto

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 937 605.

LOS NARANJOS GOLF CLUB

C.C. El Zoco. Tel: 952 932 175

LA COCINA Open daily for lunch and dinner except Wednesday.

CN 340, km. 151, Arena Beach. Tel: 952 796 320

LA MÁQUINA

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces s/n, in front of El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 448

LA RED Open daily from 9.30am to 6pm. Playa La Fontanilla, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 450

LA TABERNA DEL ALABARDERO

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 815 206

MARBELLA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 36 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 476 843

REAL CLUB DE GOLF SOTOGRANDE

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 831 036

*post offices

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. THE GUIDE listings EL CORTE INGLÉS

BENAHAVÍS

LAS CHAPAS

CLUB DEL SOL

Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

La Víbora, 9am-2pm

FUENGIROLA

BENALMÁDENA COSTA

RINCÓN DE LA VICTORIA

Tennis/paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

Tel: 952 467 843

(Second hand items) Recinto Ferial, 10am-2pm

Málaga. Plaza de la Iglesia, 9am-1pm

CLUB DE TENIS DON CARLOS

ESTEPONA

CALAHONDA

C/ Málaga 82–84. Tel: 952 800 537

Calypso, 9am-2pm

SATURDAY COÍN

Hotel Don Carlos, Avda. Zurita, CN340, km 192.

Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

FUENGIROLA

ESTEPONA

C/ Urbano Pineda, 9am-1pm

CLUB INTERNACIONAL DE TENNIS

Pza. los Chinorros. Tel: 952 474 384

Avda. Juan Carlos II, 9am-2:30 pm

LA CALA

Ctra. Cádiz, km 173. Marbella. Tel: 952 813 341

MARBELLA

ISTÁN

Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

CLUB MADROÑAL

Jac. Benavente, 14. Tel: 952 772 898

At the entrance to the town, 9am-2pm

MARO

Benahavís. Tel: 617 647 223

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

LA CALA

Close to the Nerja Caves, 9am-1pm

CLUB NUEVA ALCÁNTARA

C/ Jazmines. Tel: 952 810 887

Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

MIJAS COSTA

San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

SAN PEDRO

THURSDAY ALHAURÍN EL GRANDE

Las Lagunas, 9am-2pm

HOFSAESS TENNIS ACADEMY

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

By the Guardia Civil Offfices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

Monte Elviria (next to German School).

Tel: 952 835 812

Pizarro, 41. Tel: 952 780 39

MÁLAGA

Next to the bullring. Park near CN340 and walk upwards, 9am-1pm

MONDAY BENAHAVÍS

Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre.

9am-1pm

SUNDAY BENAHAVÍS

Ctra. de Mijas, Km 3,5. Mijas. Tel: 952 474 858

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

SAN PEDRO

Arts & Crafts. La Ermita Park, from 10pm

Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella. Tel: 952 778 580

MARBELLA

By the sports pavilion, in the Divina Pastora district, 9am-2pm

ESTEPONA

MARBELLA HILL TENNIS CLUB

Puerto Deportivo, 9am-1pm

Avda. El Fuerte, Marbella. Tel: 659 677 539

TUESDAY CHURRIANA

TORRE DEL MAR

FUENGIROLA

MARBELLA PLAYA TENIS

Avda. Europa, 9am-1pm

Recinto Ferial, 9am-2:30pm

9am-1pm

TORREMOLINOS

MÁLAGA

CN340, km 189, Marbella.

Tel: 657 619 630

FUENGIROLA

El Calvario, near Town Hall, 9am-1pm

Next to Rosaleda football stadium, 9am-2pm

MIRAFLORES TENNIS CLUB

Recinto Ferial (close to the CN340, on the same side as the bullring), 9am-2:30pm

VÉLEZ MÁLAGA

SOTOGRANDE

Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

At the Marina, 9am-1pm

Urb. Miraflores, Km 199. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 932 006

*street markets Fairground (Avda. de Juan Alameda), 9am-2:30pm

MONDA

LEW HOADS TENNIS CLUB MANOLO SANTANA RACQUETS CLUB

*tennis clubs

PUENTE ROMANO TENNIS CLUB

AZTEC COUNTRY CLUB

ROYAL TENNIS CLUB MARBELLA

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa.

Tel: 952 934 477

El Rosario, Marbella. Tel: 952 837 651

WEDNESDAY ALHAURÍN DE LA TORRE

In the area between Tivoli World and the Plaza San Pedro, 9am-1pm

CALAHONDA

BEL AIR TENNIS AND PADDEL CLUB

Avda. del Limón, 9am-2pm

Calypso, 9am-2pm

Urb. Bel-Air, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 221

Avda. del Higueron, Benalmádena.

Tel: 952 565 761

C/ Los Huertos, 8am-2:30pm

NERJA C/ Chaparil, 9am-1pm

FRIDAY BENALMÁDENA

Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

SPORT CLUB RESERVA DEL HIGUERÓN

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pets THE GUIDE .

CARDBOARD ICE-CREAM TRUCK BY FAMOUS OTO: How cute is this little truck? Your cat will enjoy climbing on top, jumping through the window, or having a much-needed nap. After all, you can’t cuddle it all day! i Available on Amazon or www.famousoto.com

LITTER BOX BY MODKAT: this all-in-one litter solution boasts an award-winning design that is easy to clean and reduces odour. i Available on www.modkat.com and local stores as well.

h s o o b a F

… not e, a time for giving tim as m st ri Ch but also s e, It’ people in your lif just to the special a Cutillas suggests these to your pets. Maris just plain fun items to practical, pretty, or kle into their day. bring a bit of spar

S T E P R O F S T GIF SLOW FEEDER INTERACTIVE DOG BOWL BY KYJEN: This bowl is not only gorgeous to look at but also stops your dog from gulping down its food, causing bloating and other digestive upsets.

Watch you dog make its way through the maze, quaffing its comestibles with style and grace. i Available on Amazon.

SLOW FEED BALL, INTERACTIVE IQ NON-TOXIC RUBBER DENTAL TREAT TOOTH CLEANING TOY FOR DOGS BY COEVAL: This takes the above feeding concept a step further, by adding a bit of play into the equation. Those who have this toy swear it gives their dogs hours of entertainment… best of all, it gives their teeth a good clean. i Available on Amazon.

SENSORY BALL DOG TOY BY ETHICAL BALL: This cute toy stimulates the five senses, boasting a sound bell and squeakers, bright colours, beef scent and flavour, and multiple touch textures. i Available on Amazon.

PIONEER PET PEEK-A-PRIZE TOY BOX WITH SMARTCAT: Hide toys inside this toy box and watch your cat go crazy!

The box encourages your cat’s natural predatory behaviour, ensuring they are never bored. i Available on Amazon.

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what’s on...

. THE GUIDE what’s on

FORTHCOMING EVENTS Until December 31 ART – MARBELLA

Ricardo Alario presents his latest collection of graphic art at Taller Ricardo Alario. Available for viewing on Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 1pm and 5pm to 8pm. www.ricardoalario.com

Until January 12, 2018 PICASSO AND MUSIC – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso de Málaga presents Picassares: a concert by famed guitarist, Daniel Casares, who pays homage to Málaga’s best-loved artist alongside dancer, Sergio Aranda, fellow guitarist Manuel Peralta, violinist Nelson Doblas, and percussionist Miguel ‘Nene’ Ortiz. www.museopicassomalaga.org

NEW AND REGULAR EVENTS

Weekly on different days WALKING FOOTBALL – MARBELLA

Weekly sessions of Walking Football (non-contact walking football) for men and women of all ages to keep fit and meet new friends. Further information, www.walkingfootballspain.com

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

The members of this cultural group meet at different times and places for lunches, lectures, concerts, ballet, theatre, opera, etc. Further information, Tel: 669 445 809.

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE – MARBELLA Integral Psychotherapist Gabriella Kortsch holds a series of interesting group sessions on dream analysis, astrological life cycles and more.

For information on precise times and locations, Tel: 626 189 765. info@advancedpersonaltherapy.com

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday JIVE – MIRAFLORES, ESTEPONA AND LA DUQUESA Learn to dance with Colin and the team from Jive Spain at Miraflores Restaurant on Tuesday, El Campanario on Wednesday and El Goleto at Duquesa on Friday. For precise times, colin@jivespain.com

Every Tuesday and Friday PAINTING CLASSES – MARBELLA

Talented artist Ricardo Alario will be teaching budding painters the secrets of his craft from 10am to 1pm (first group) and 5pm to 8pm (second group). For further information, Tel: 952 859 671. www.ricardoalario.com

PILATES AND YOGA – BENAHAVÍS

The Benahavís Country Club is ready and set to help you achieve a state of greater health, fitness and wellness, with yoga classes every Tuesday at 10am and Pilates on Fridays at 10am. Nonmembers are welcome and the classes cost just €10. Bookings are advised to guarantee your place. Tel: 952 856 171. wellness@benahavishills.com

Every Wednesday ART – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso de Málaga offers free guided tours in English (included in the entry price), from 11:30am to 2pm.

Tickets cost €8 for adults. Children enter for free. www.museopicassomalaga.org

FLAMENCO – MIJAS

Every Wednesday at 12pm, a dazzling flamenco show takes place at the Plaza Virgen de la Peña in Mijas Pueblo. www.mijas.es

Every first Wednesday of the month CULTURE AND COCKTAIL – MARBELLA The Association of Art and Culture Marbella holds a monthly cocktail at Magna Café at Magna Marbella Golf, from 8pm-10pm. Tel: 627 833 262. www.artandculturemarbella.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

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: 952 800 975. www.adana.es

BUSINESS LUNCH – MARBELLA

Marbella Business Institute holds an invitation-only lunch club for local and visiting business people, active and retired. To apply, visit www. marbellabusinessinternational.org

Every Saturday MARKETS – PUERTO BANÚS

Head for the Puerto Banús bullring every Saturday for a fun street market featuring everything from clothing to music, accessories and home ware.

Starts at 9am and ends at 2pm. www.marbella.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.

Until September 16, 2018

WARHOL – MÁLAGA The Museo Picasso de Málaga will be hosting Warhol. Mechanical Art: an exhibition which examines the complex oeuvre of the artist from Pittsburgh, (1928-1987), highlighting the transmutations in his body of work during the consecutive creative phases of his career. www.musepicassomalaga. org

Saturday December 2

ALOHA COLLEGE CHRISTMAS FAIR – MARBELLA Aloha College is hosting its annual Christmas bazaar at its campus.

Featuring gifts, décor and a wide array of foods from different countries. www.aloha-college.com

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Friday December 1 to Tuesday December 5 ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SHOW – FUENGIROLA

The Salón Varietés Theatre presents its annual Christmas show, Mistletoe & Wine, devised and directed by David Vincent.

Nightly at 7:30pm, Sunday at 7pm. www. salonvarietestheatre.com

Saturday December 2 FUNDRAISING CONCERT – MARBELLA The Coro de Ópera de Málaga presents its yearly fundraising show, at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella, at 8pm. For tickets, www.mientrada.net

Saturday December 2 and Sunday December 3 ART EXHIBITION – FUENGIROLA Various artists from the Andalusian International Artists group will be exhibiting their new works at an exhibition at the IPV Beatriz Palace Hotel. Further information, www.rogercummiskey.com

Sunday December 3 MECANO TRIBUTE – ESTEPONA

MECANO is one of Spain’s best-selling pop groups of all time. This month, Robin Torres presents Hija de la Luna, a tribute act featuring all your favourite songs, at the Auditorio Felipe VI in Estepona. For tickets, www.auditorioestepona.com

Tuesday December 5 FARRUKO – TORREMOLINOS

Carlos Efrén Reyes Rosado, better known as Farruko, is a Puerto Rican Trap artist who is as prolific at reggaeton as he is at rap, hip hop, and R&B. Farruko has worked alongside José Feliciano, Pitbull, Nicky Jam, and more artists. He will be performing at the Auditorio Príncipe de Asturias at 8pm. For tickets, www.ticketbell.com

CHRISTMAS LIGHT CELEBRATION – TORREMOLINOS

Torremolinos will officially turn on all its Christmas lights at 8pm at the Plaza Costa del Sol. Featuring a concert by flamenco group, Casa Pestiño. www.torremolinos.es

Wednesday December 6 BANK HOLIDAY – CONSTITUTION DAY Schools, shops, etc. close for the day

Friday December 8 BANK HOLIDAY – LA INMACULADA CONCEPCIÓN Schools, shops, etc. close for the day

Saturday December 9 THE NUTCRACKER – ESTEPONA

The School of Russian ballet will be performing this classic festive season ballet at the Auditorio Felipe VI in Estepona. Featuring over 40 dancers and stunning costumes. For tickets, www.auditorioestepona.com

QUEEN TRIBUTE – MÁLAGA

Enjoy a lively tribute to Queen, featuring all the band’s most iconic songs, at Sala The Hall at 10pm. For tickets, www.ticketea.com

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS – BENALMÁDENA

The 19th International Festival of Christmas Traditions will be taking place in Benalmádena from 11am to 11pm at the Plaza de la Mezquita, Arroyo de la Miel. Featuring food, drinks, Santa Claus, dance, capoeira, Philippine dancing, tango, Celtic dance and so much more. www.benalmadena.es

Saturday December 16 CHARLESTON CHRISTMAS PARTY – MARBELLA

Marbella Baila presents a fun Charleston themed Christmas party at El Fogón de Flore restaurant on the Ctra. de Ojén.

Featuring dinner as well. For further information, www.marbellabaila.com

Sunday December 17 KIDS SHOW – MARBELLA

Kids’ group Pica Pica presents Navidad Navidad – an interactive show that takes kids into the magical world of Nacho Bombín, Emi Bombón and Belén Pelo de Oro. At the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella at 12:30pm and 2pm. For tickets, www.servientradas.com or www.marbellacongresos.com

Wednesday December 20 to January 5 PANTOMIME (CINDERELLA) – FUENGIROLA The Salón Variétes Theatre presents Cinderella: a fun-filled family pantomime. Featuring evening and matinée shows. For tickets, www.salonvarietestheatre.com

Friday December 22 MARÍA LOZANO FOR CUDECA – MÁLAGA

Spanish singer, María Lozano, will be giving it her all at a concert being held at the Auditorio Edgar Neville at 8:30pm. All proceeds will go to the CUDECA cancer hospice. For tickets, www.ticketea.com

EL GORDO – THROUGHOUT SPAIN

The biggest lottery prizes of the year will be drawn live on television. Don’t forget to buy your ticket!

Saturday December 23 KIDS THEATRE – MARBELLA

El Auto de Papá is a musical family show paying tribute to the best clowns in the history of Spanish TV. At the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella at 5pm.

For tickets, www.servientradas.com or www.marbellacongresos.com

Monday December 25 HOLIDAY – CHRISTMAS DAY

Shops and banks close this day.

Thursday December 7

Saturday December 16

The recently launched Wennare Dance Company presents its debut performance at the Auditorio Felipe VI in Estepona – the show is called EGO and it is a dynamic performance, full of contrasts, happiness, sadness and love. For tickets, www.auditorioestepona.com

Noches de Tango will once again be filling the Centro Cultural Villa de Nerja with the music and passion of this quintessentially Argentine form of music, dance and poetry. Featuring La Porteña Tango, talented singer, Eugenia Giordano, and award-winning dancers/choreographers, Damián Roezgas and Amira Luna. The show is entitled Qué me van a hablar de amor. For tickets, www.mientrada.net

DANCE – ESTEPONA

TANGO – NERJA

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Monthly Horoscope December 2017 SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) Your demanding social schedule will drain your energy at the beginning of December.

On the 3rd, a good friend or romantic partner will give you an ultimatum. Unless you slow down, your relationship will come to an abrupt end. Things will improve by the middle of the month, as long as you stop insisting on going out all the time. Take this opportunity to enjoy quality time with the person closest to your heart. The New Moon on the 18th will inspire you to change your look in some way. This is the best time of the entire year to update your hairstyle or add fashionable items to your wardrobe. The second half of the month will prompt you to be more responsible with money. Save up to buy quality merchandise instead of cheap items that will quickly break or wear out. Christmas will be a meaningful season spent with the people you love most in the world.

The New Moon on the 18th will inspire you to change your look in some way. This is the best time of the entire year to update your hairstyle or add fashionable items to your wardrobe

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ARIES [21 MAR - 20 APR]

Don’t make any impulsive decisions at the beginning of December or a close relationship could suffer. On the 3rd, the Full Moon will bring disappointing news about an official matter. Unexpected expenses and bigger than normal bills could throw you off balance.

Befriending an authoritative figure could be helpful; if you’re polite to everyone you speak to, you’re more likely to get the assistance you want. You’ll have a chance to expand your horizons at the middle of the month.

This is a terrific time to go on an overseas trip, carry out some old world traditions or take up a challenging course of study. The New Moon on the 18th is perfect for showcasing your expertise. Publishing an article or giving a workshop will be very successful. The second half of the month will improve your career prospects. Be ready to accept a new demanding role and you will be surprised by the results. By the time Christmas arrives, you’ll feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment.

TAURUS [21 APR - 21 MAY]

Tension at work can take its toll on your health in the opening days of the month.

Try practicing relaxation techniques to keep stress at bay. The Full Moon on the 3rd will drive home the fact you are not being properly compensated for all the work you do. Joining a professional organisation will help you find the lucrative job opportunities you want. At the middle of the month, you’ll enjoy some intimate moments with the one you love. Take this opportunity to go on a relaxing minibreak together. On the 18th, the New Moon will mark a windfall of some kind. Working hard to produce a cash cushion will put you on the road to a more comfortable financial position. The second half of the month will challenge you to go for a promotion. There are a range of possibilities open to you so check them all out and choose the one you feel most at ease with. Indulge your love of luxury at Christmas. A sumptuous gift is sure to put a smile on your face.

GEMINI [22 MAY - 21 JUN]

Trying to force friends and lovers together will not work at the start of the month. Let relationships develop naturally, and if necessary, separate one from the other. On the 3rd, the Full Moon will bring an embarrassing mistake to light. Instead of trying to sweep this error under the carpet, admit it and offer a sincere apology. People will give you a second chance if you admit the error of your ways. A dynamic business or romantic partner will help you realise a cherished dream at the middle of the month. Accept their generous offer of help. The New Moon on the 18th could mark the announcement of an engagement or wedding. Celebrate in high style with friends and family. The second half of December will put a crimp in your budget. Making your resources stretch as far as possible will help you though this pinch. Christmas will be a loving time; take this opportunity to give a heartfelt, sincere and romantic message to your amour.

CANCER [22 JUN - 23 JUL]

An authority figure’s erratic behaviour will make you angry at the beginning of December. The Full Moon on the 3rd will bring some troubling information to light that prompts you to look for a new job. Fortunately, you’ll be able to land a position with an international company with a worldwide perspective on the future.

This position will seem more like play than work. At the middle of the month, you’ll be given an exciting opportunity to acquire advanced technical skills.

Mastering this knowledge could lead to an impressive promotion. On the 18th, the New Moon will inspire you to start a health regimen. Improving your diet, exercise

and sleep routines will make you look and feel much better. The second half of the month will prompt a loved one to make a personal sacrifice on your behalf.

Be sure to show your appreciation. Christmas will be a cosy affair, spent with the people who are nearest and dearest to your heart.

LEO [24 JUL - 23 AUG]

A romantic partner’s thoughtless behaviour will cause offense in your social circle. It’s time to reflect on whether you want to stay with someone who can be so hurtful. On the 3rd, the Full Moon will prompt you to defend a loyal friend who has stood by you for years. You’ll feel much better after taking an ethical stance. The middle of the month finds you pouring all your energy into a stimulating creative project. Exercising your imagination will be a welcome distraction from a romantic disappointment. The New Moon on the 18th is ideal for going on a fun vacation.

Fulfilling your sense of adventure will give you an attractive glow that is impossible to resist. The second half of December will find you taking better care of your health. Christmas affords a welcome opportunity to indulge your love of luxury. Choose an outfit that makes you feel positively regal and enjoy a sumptuous festive get together.

VIRGO [24 AUG - 23 SEPT]

Trying to fix a broken relationship with expensive gifts in the early days of the month will be an exercise in futility. The Full Moon on the 3rd will prompt you to have a difficult discussion with a business or romantic partner. Parting ways will be painful, but best for all concerned over time. Your kind, compassionate attitude will pave the way for a better union with someone else.

At the middle of December, you’ll be able to seal a property deal quite quickly. Buying or selling a house or flat will pave the way for long term financial security.

You can get fantastic terms on a bank loan around the 18th, courtesy of the New Moon. During the second half of December, you’ll be challenged to develop your creative talent. Studying with a master craftsman will allow you to polish your natural abilities to a diamond like brilliance. Christmas will be wonderfully romantic; give your amour a beautiful token of your lasting affection.

LIBRA [24 SEPT - 23 OCT]

Trying to push someone into making a decision is bound to backfire in early December. It’s better to make a strategic retreat than press your point.

On the 3rd, the Full Moon will put an added strain on a romantic relationship. If you part ways with your amour, try to stay friends. Although you might not have worked well as partners, you still have a lot to offer each other. The middle of the month finds you teaming up with somebody who is unlike anyone you’ve ever befriended before. Their upbeat attitude will bring fun and adventure to your life. The New Moon on the 18th sets the scene for excellent news about a creative idea or project. This will be a great time to sign with an agent or publisher. The second half of the month brings heavy household responsibilities. You may invite a relative or friend to live with you while they recover from an illness or professional setback. Christmas will be cosy, comfortable and reassuring.

SCORPIO [24 OCT - 22 NOV]

You’ll have to keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself at the start of the month. Expressing yourself could result in a job loss or even a health problem. The Full Moon on the 3rd will prompt you to break off a financial arrangement that

no longer works for you. Supporting an irresponsible relative is no longer an option; they’ll have to fend for themselves. Standing up for your own interests will be liberating. At long last, you’ll have the funds to do as you please. Taking a vacation or delving into a creative project is strongly advised. Your income will get a big boost in the middle of the month, when you’re rewarded for having some essential skills. On the 18th, the New Moon will give you a chance to launch a project that is close to your heart. Christmas will prompt you to have a meaningful conversation with a relative. It’s time to get an important issue off your chest.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC - 20 JAN]

Influences and individuals at work will begin to get on your nerves in the early days of December. By the 3rd, you may decide to move on to greener pastures, when the Full Moon causes your work performance to be unfairly criticised. Fortunately, you have plenty of friends who will rally round to defend you. Let them help you find a creatively rewarding role. By the middle of the month, you could be working successfully from home.

Escaping an arduous commute and office politics will improve your health. The New Moon on the 18th will prompt you to delve into the spiritual side of life. Putting less emphasis on money and status will deepen your appreciation of life. The second half of the month will invite you to take on a new challenge. You’ll have a chance to achieve expert status in your desired field.

Presiding over a big Christmas celebration will give you great happiness. You’ll love bringing friends and family together in a spirit of harmony.

AQUARIUS [21 JAN - 19 FEB]

An angry outburst will be a cause for regret at the beginning of the month.

Bite your tongue whenever you feel your blood starting to boil. On the 3rd, the Full Moon will throw a spanner in the works of your schedule, forcing you to cancel a fun outing. Coming to an absent-minded friend’s rescue has become tedious. It’s time to set some healthier boundaries with this inconsiderate person. Be sure to attend a festive occasion at the middle of the month.

Wear a stylish, eye catching outfit that makes you feel fabulous; you’ll create quite a stir. The New Moon on the 18th is ideal for joining a study group. You’ll enjoy talking about your favourite subject with fellow enthusiasts.

The second half of December will prompt you to adopt a lower profile. Spending more time on solitary pursuits will be rewarding. Christmas could turn into a quiet affair, spent only with your nearest and dearest friends.

PISCES [20 FEB - 20 MAR]

An unexpected expense could upset your equilibrium at the start of December. Take a deep breath and summon up all your inventiveness.

An imaginative solution to your problem could arrive on the 3rd, courtesy of the Full Moon. Instead of maintaining an expensive lifestyle, you may decide to move to a neighbourhood full of undeveloped potential. Reducing your housing costs will give you more opportunities to enjoy the activities you love, like going to concerts, plays and movies. An exciting career opportunity will make your eyes sparkle with excitement at the middle of the month. Not only will the position be prestigious, but the money might be much more than you expected. The New Moon on the 18th will find you travelling for business. Visiting a country you’ve never seen before will be stimulating.

You’ll be able to sign a new client on this eventful journey. During the second half of December, you’ll rub elbows with a variety of impressive executives, even over Christmas and into the New Year.

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Do you have little ones or teens living at home? Are you at a loss as to what to buy them for Christmas? Take your pick from this handy list, with top selling items as predicted by Amazon and ToysRUs. 1 – LUVABELLA

This doll may look a little creepy, but it actually leads many of the top selling toy predictions for this year! Forget about the similarity with the dolls in Penny Dreadful and open up to her fantastic features, including ‘true-to-life facial expressions’. She giggles when you tickle her tummy, learns over 100 clear words and phrases (the more you play with her, the more she learns) and needs feeding, burping and soothing – sounds like my biggest nightmare! Age: 4+

2 – FISHER-PRICE THINK AND LEARN TEACH ‘N’ TAG MOVI ACTIVITY TOY

This toy boasts 360º mobility and up to 60 different expressions. It educates preschoolers to follow directions, gets them moving and teaches them critical thinking skills. It invites kids to play various games, each of which has two or more variations – games involve learning to count, animal facts and cool dance moves. Age: 3+

3 – ANKI OVERDRIVE: FAST & FURIOUS EDITION Use your iOS or Android mobile devices to race with or against the Toretto crew,

testing your mettle against Dom’s Ice Charger or Hobbs’ MXT. The game features all your favourite F&F characters, including Letty and Tej. Open up the box and build your track in seconds, and use the app to teach you the techniques you need to win the game and to control your vehicle. Age: 8+

4 – SUPER MARIO ODYSSEY FOR NINTENDO SWITCH

This action-packed game takes place in new Donk City, where Mario exercises his incredible skills, including bouncing off vehicles to make his way through fire escapes, climbing up streetlights and using his magic cap to inhabit other characters.

Mario can also switch from 3D to 2D by squishing himself up a wall – it doesn’t get any funner than this! Age: 12+

5 – CALL OF DUTY: WWII FOR XBOX ONE, PS4, PC

This tried-and-tested game now features War: a new gaming mode that blends the teamwork mechanics of Overwatch with the multi-stage goals of Battlefield. It is quite violent (featuring guns, grenades, rocket

launchers and flamethrowers), so is best suited for older/mature teens. Age: 18+

6 – VTECH KIDI SUPER STAR

Not for the faint hearted, this karaoke toy will enable your children to sing for hours on end (consider sound-proofing their room until they leave for university). The set features a built-in recorder, disco light and voice-changing function (thankfully, the Exorcist voice mode is not available). Age: 4 to 10 years

7 – FIFA 18 FOR XBOX ONE, PS4, PS3, XBOX 360 AND PC

An absolute must for soccer lovers – play alongside legends like Cristiano Ronaldo or Karim Benzema in new stadiums. When the game starts, you find yourself in the middle of the Santiago Bernabeu as fans chant “Hala Madrid.” The game has made various improvements to its predecessor (FIFA 17), with quicker animations and greater individuality from player to player. Age: 10+

8 – STAR WARS: BATTLEFRONT II FOR XBOX ONE, PS4, PC This game was released last month and it is already a big seller. Gamers fill the

boots of Empire commander Iden Versio, who vows revenge after the second Death Star explodes. If you get sick of Versio, try controlling Kylo Ren or Luke Skywalker instead. The game covers 30 years of the Star Wars storyline, so get ready to encounter all the saga’s biggest stars.

Age: 11-13+, approximately

9 – LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE GREEN NINJA MECH DRAGON

This is a complex Lego set, ideal for kids with a lot of patience, who love a good challenge. The completed figure has snapping jaws, a poseable body, wheelactivated ‘swooshing tail’, shooters and thrusters. It comes with four additional minifigures. Age: 8 to 14

10 – TRANSFORMERS: THE LAST KNIGHT RADIO CONTROL AUTOBOT SQWEEKS

Autobot Sqweeks may be tiny, but it was also one of the cutest characters in the explosive Tranformers: The Last Knight Movie. This radio-controlled toy features motion and sound effects, including lights, sounds and phrases. Age: 6 to 12 e

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HAPPY CHRISTMAS