Essential Magazine February 2018

N º 222 - FEBRUARY 2018

WOMEN

JAGUAR

INFLUENCERS E-TYPE ZERO

THE HILLS

HIS &

MOVIES ROLE MODELS ARE ALIVE

TRAVEL & SAFETY

DÉCOR

FEMALE HERS

SOLO

ROMANTIC CURVY

LRVE

ACTUALLY

I S S U E 2 2 2 • F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 8

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

essential essential magazine® marbella

w THE TREND p THE FOCUS d THE STYLE n THE SPA z THE PRO h THE LEISURE b THE GOURMET . THE GUIDE

e

26/01/2018 12:11

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COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

MARBELLA

40%PRICE BELOW THE

MARKET

BOLADILLA VILLAGE ICONIC VILLAS JUST 200 METERS FROM THE BEACH

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

16/11/2017 14:46

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.

16/11/2017 14:47

Bedrooms: 6

Built: 1,087 m²

Terrace: 116 m²

Plot: 4,246 m²

Price: € 13,850,000

GOLDEN MILE Mansion with guest house, 24-hour security and panoramic sea views in Sierra Blanca, offering unique special features! Ref.ES10146

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 514 m²

Plot: 1,307 m²

Price: € 2,450,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Immaculate villa in Aloha, Golf Valley. Ref. ES10003

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 293 m²

Plot: 1,000 m²

Price: € 995,000

GOLDEN MILE Elegant villa with potential for refurbishment! Ref. ES10170

An International Associate of Savills

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 428 m²

Plot: 1,215 m²

Price: € 2,500,000

MARBELLA EAST Modern villa, walking distance to the beach. Ref. ES10194

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 491 m²

Plot: 1,071 m²

Price: € 1,795,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Villa in Las Brisas Golf, panoramic views. Ref. ES10273

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 835 m²

Terrace: 391 m²

Plot: 1,860 m²

Price: € 13,900,000

PUERTO BANÚS Contemporary beachfront bliss next to Puerto Banús. Recently built. Indoor pool & spa, exquisitely finished & ready to move in! Ref. ES9953

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 775 m²

Plot: 2,600 m²

Price: € 3,850,000

BENAHAVÍS Brand-new villa with sea views in El Madroñal. Ref. ES10117

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 240 m²

Terrace: 46 m²

Price: € 1,999,950

GOLDEN MILE Penthouse with beautiful views in La Trinidad. Ref. ES5774

Regulated by RICS

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 217 m²

Terrace: 76 m²

Price: € 3,450,000

PUENTE ROMANO Spacious 2nd line beach duplex penthouse. Ref. ES9902

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 558 m²

Plot: 1,200 m²

Price: € 2,300,000

GOLDEN MILE Villa in a gated complex near Sierra Blanca. Ref. ES9483

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 222 • February 2018

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, PHILIP HARRIS, TONY WHITNEY 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

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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.

222Mh.indd 1

24/01/2018 16:29

Brexit.

The clock is ticking.

The EU and UK have agreed to preserve the rights of UK nationals who are resident in the EU before Brexit. If you already have official residence status you can look forward to a secure future in Spain. If you do not, you need to take action now to formalise your position. We can advise you.

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southernspain@blevinsfranks.com Keep an eye on the Blevins Franks website for Brexit news - www.blevinsfranks.com/brexit and contact us if you want to sign up for regular updates.

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INTERNATIONAL TA X ADVICE • INVESTMENTS • ESTATE PLANNING • PENSIONS Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Mediation Directive from Malta, the regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.

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FOR FURTHER ENQUIRES

info@solvilla.no +34 952 765 060 +34 627 813 545

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coming sooN:

12 Exclusive vill as Leading architecture 24h gated communit y Panoramic Sea Views Prices from â‚Ź2.500.000

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6 SO

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LD

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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.: +34 951 234 360

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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 · www.thecollectionmarbella.com · info@thecollectionmarbella.com · Tel.: +34 951 492 549

You only live once,

Elviria: Representing very pinnacle of modern style and featuring the finest materials and advanced technologies, this villa with excellent sea and mountain views is situated close to the “Elviria Golf” and minutes away from all amenities. 5 beds, 4 baths. Built 482 m2, plot 1.000 m2.

E&V ID: W-02AODU. Price: 1.830.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 55 80.

La Quinta: Situated next to the golf course, in a gated community, this beautiful villa offers magnificent sea and mountain views and absolute privacy. 4 beds, 4 baths. Built 412 m², plot 1.100 m².

E&V ID: W-02A01T. Price: 1.299.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Golden Mile: Opportunity! Set on a large plot, close to Marbella Club Hotel and the beach, this is one of the most impressive residences on the Golden Mile. 6 beds, 6 baths. Built 794 m2, plot 2.644 m2.

E&V ID: W-028ZG1. Price: 3.100.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Beachfront Golden Mile: Modern apartment with sea views in a desirable community, out & indoor pools, sauna, gym, direct access to the promenade. 2 beds, 2 baths. Living area 110 m2, terrace 18 m2.

E&V ID: W-02B0HU. Price: 900.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Marina Puente Romano: Spectacular designer apartment with large terraces, beautifully refurbished. The best beach community on the Golden Mile. 3 beds, 2 baths. Living area 90 m2, terrace 30 m2.

E&V ID: W-02BBY3. Price: 1.550.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

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

we will show you where!

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.

Golden Mile: A stylish contemporary villa set on a large plot enjoying fantastic sea views. High quality standards, beautifully decorated throughout. 6 beds, 6 baths. Built 500 m2, plot 3.100 m2.

E&V ID: W-025V59. Price: 3.800.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Beachfront El Rosario: Contemporary villa offering luxury and style directly on the beach! Built to highest qualities with the best materials.

Gym, Spa, large roof terrace. 6 beds, 4 baths. Built 652 m2, plot 750 m2.

E&V ID: W-022GJC. Price: 2.995.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Frontline Beach Puerto Banús: Fantastic penthouse with breathtaking 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: 895.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

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

KEEP READING IN 2018!

W W W . E S S E N T I A L S P O T L I G H T. C O M

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W W W. E S S E N T I A L M A G A Z I N E . C O M

25/01/18 12:47

h ...EVERYBODY LOVES SOMEBODY

essential marbella® magazine 222_VAL.indd 3

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Ref: DM4199 Price: 13.850.000€

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Price: 3.650.000€

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Connecting people & property, perfectly.

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new golden mile Frontline beach with sea views.

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D

contents the trend Cinema 28

Romantic Films 30 Music News 32

Best Selling Books 34

Technology: Live Streaming 36

Jaguar E-Type Zero 38

the focus

Love, Actually 42 Valentine’s Day Rocks 46 Women Influencers 48

the pro 102 Enterprise 108 Holiday Lettings 110 The Vibe

the leisure 112 Solo Travel for Women 120 Healthouse Las Dunas

the gourmet 125 Cibo 126 Food News

Curvy Models 54

128 Food Trends

The Hills by Solvilla 64

130 Priorat Wine

the style His and Hers Design 72

the guide 132 Listings

Cool Fireplaces 78

141 Pet News

Fashion by Ulises Mérida 80

142 What’s On

Coloured Diamonds 86

the spa

144 Stars for February 146 Why Teens Take Risks

Rituals 90 Face Scrubs 92 Spirituality and Health 96 Health News 98 Lens Replacement Surgery at Sol Eyes 100

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ARCHITECTURE . INTERIOR DESIGN . BESPOKE CARPENTRY . FURNITURE COLLECTION

AT L F W SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR DEVELOPERS SHO COST AT

SHOWROOM MARBELLA

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A V D A . B LV. P R Í N C I P E A L F O N S O D E H O H E N L O H E . U R B . C A R O L I N A P A R K www.aaltofurniture.com

D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

T

his month’s has a distinctly feminine devotion with features on female influencers, curvy models breaking the mould, and safer options for single woman travellers – a trend that is on the rise. Appropriately, love also dominates these pages, including romantic films for 2018, gender-related trends in home décor, and a retrospective on romance.

We also profile “the most beautiful electric car in the world” – the new Jaguar E-Type Zero – combining timeless beauty with zero emissions, preview the Spring/Summer Collection by Ulises Mérida, find out why Priorat has become one of the stand-out Spanish wine regions, and probe this year’s predicted food trends.

Here on the Coast, we present The Hills, a state-of-the-art luxury development from Solvilla, we enjoy some mind and body pampering at Healthouse Las Dunas and we savour a wonderful dining experience courtesy of Cibo, on Marbella’s Golden Mile.

Look out for next month’s

Easter edition!

ESSENTIAL

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24/01/2018 14:06

Naturally Modern Living

“

“

Where nature & modern life are intertwined

IMMINENT LAUNCH OF NEXT PHASES, PLEASE CONTACT US!

PaloAltoMarbella.COM TO BOOK A TOUR: 900 102 322

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w the trend READING MUSIC FILMS GADGETS MOTORING TRENDS

28 Cinema 30

Romantic Films

32

Music News

34

Best Selling Books

36

Live Streaming

38

The Jaguar E-Type Zero

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w THE TREND cinema

COMPILED BY MA RIS

e BLOCKBUSTER OF

A CUTILLAS

THE MONTH

Foley (House of Cards) »» DIRECTOR James nson, Jamie Dornan, Joh a »» ACTORS Dakot Luke Grimes

w up flick for those who gre The perfect Valentine’s ybe ma , OK rlequin books. in the 1980s reading Ha se the like dis but p hel ’t can it’s not that bad; I just ue, log dia k vies that lac seemingly steamy mo sexiness. Fifty Shades tic hen aut and , humour and final instalment of d thir the Freed is thankfully s. ogy that has sold million the ‘erotic’ romance tril ie Jam w kno ulous and we Dakota Johnson is fab tish Bri on d we sho he (as re Dornan is capable of mo film may be okay when series, The Fall), but this ity. something light and fru you’re in the mood for

d e e r F s e d a h Fifty S

»» DIRECTOR Wim Wenders (The Salt of the Earth) »» GENRE Drama/Romance »» ACTORS Alicia Vikander, James McAvoy, Alexander Siddig

Submergence

This film delves into the opposite worlds of Danielle Flinders and James More. They meet by chance at a hotel in Normandy, where both are preparing for dangerous missions. James works for the British secret service and is on his way to Somalia to follow the trail of a network of suicide bombers who are intent on annihilating Europe. Danielle is a bio-mathematician working on the discovery of the origin of life on our Planet. They are worlds apart from each other but their paths will cross again, since they are each other’s soul mate.

»» DIRECTOR Luca Guadagnino (A Bigger Splash) »» ACTORS Armie Hammer, Timothée Chalamet, Michael Stuhlbarg

Call Me by Your Name

If you are up for a true, profound, unforgettable love story, let this be your Valentine’s Day film. We wrote last month about Timothée Chalamet, one of Hollywood’s brightest upcoming stars. The trailer alone has rendered this the single most awaited film for me; it made my hair stand on end and will hopefully affect you in the same way. Not to give too much away, this is a coming-of-age film based on the novel of the same name by André Aciman.

Set in a stunning rural village in Northern Italy in 1983, it is the story of the deep bond that forms between 17-year-old Elio and his father’s student, a young, handsome ‘free thinker’ whom Elio finds irresistible.

»» DIRECTOR Paul Thomas Anderson (There Will Be Blood) »» GENRE Drama »» ACTORS Daniel Day-Lewis, Vicky Krieps, Lesley Manville

Phantom Thread

Set in the glamorous London of the 1950s, this film centres on dressmaker, Reynolds Woodcock and his sister Cyril, the centre of the British fashion world and designers to royalty, celebrities, and politicians. Reynolds is surrounded by beautiful women, but does not truly fall in love until he meets Alma, a seemingly simple yet disturbing influence who becomes his muse, lover, and downfall.

»» DIRECTOR Wes Ball (The Maze Runner) »» GENRE Science Fiction/Thriller »» ACTORS Dylan O’Brien, Katherine McNamara, Thomas Brodie-Sangster

Maze Runner: The Death Cure

The Maze Runner saga may be officially a ‘teen’ flick, but it actually makes fantastic viewing for adults as well, since the pace is fast, the plot exciting, and the effects second-to-none. In the epic finale to the saga, gifted teen, Thomas and his team must break into the legendary ‘Last City’, protected by a high-tech labyrinth that may turn out to the deadliest maze of all. Their aim is to discover the answers to all the mysteries that have plagued them since the very first maze.

28 / FEBRUARY 2018 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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www.9lionsresidences.com

We are proud to present 9 Lions Residences; a modern residential project situated in the golf valley of Nueva AndalucĂ­a in between Club De Golf Aloha, Real Club De Golf Las Brisas and Club De Los Naranjos, just five minutes from Puerto BanĂşs.

Contact: Mark Lamb Sales & Marketing Director mark@9lionsresidences.com +34 691 901 976

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Niclas Broberg Sales Manager niclas@9lionsresidences.com +34 607 818 021

18/12/2017 15:28

w THE TREND cinema

ROMANTIC FILMS t o W at ch Out For in 2018

In case The Notebook, P.S. I Love You, or You’ve Got Mail set your heart on fire, Marisa Cutillas brings you a list of romantic films to mark down on your calendar, so you can buy the popcorn and tissues beforehand and book a cinema date and dinner with your loved one.

FOREVER MY GIRL

This Bethany Ashton Wolf directed film delves into the importance of being true to our roots. Liam Page (Alex Roe) is a successful country musician who left his true love Josie (Jessica Rothe) at the altar to pursue fame and fortune, slipping into one hopeless relationship after another and never quite forgetting that Josie was the one woman he ever loved. Liam returns home to attend the funeral of his best friend from highschool and hopes to redeem Josie, but the true course of love never ran smoothly, let alone for someone who was stupid enough to laugh in the face of destiny.

Z IDEAL FOR: Lovers of country music, since the film features original songs by some of the world’s top country music artists – including Lauren Alaina, who sings the beautiful song, Wings of an Angel.

MIDNIGHT SUN

Scott Speer directs a talented young cast which includes Disney sensation, Bella

Thorne, and Arnold Schwarzenegger’s son, Patrick (who shares his father’s good looks but is a tad less brawny).

Thorne plays Katie Price – a 17-yearold who has been sheltered from life because of her extreme photosensitivity.

Her world opens up when the sun sets and she plays the guitar for travellers.

One night, she meets Charlie and falls madly in love, yet chooses to hide her secret for fear of losing him. Luckily, she has a supportive father who steers her in the right direction, in true Pretty in Pink fashion.

Z IDEAL FOR: Young adults, John Hughes rom-com fans, and those into Japanese film – this one is a remake of huge hit, Taiyō no Uta.

AVATAR 2

James Cameron is back leading Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, and Sigourney Weaver on another mythical adventure, featuring cutting edge technology, dazzling underwater scenes, and a more fantastical universe than we encountered in the first film. This

hotly awaited sequel, due for release in 2014, has taken considerably longer to produce owing to all the aquatic scenes.

Cameron recently told the press that testing would last until January, 2018: “We’re getting really good data, beautiful character motion and great facial performance capture. We’ve basically cracked the code.”

Z IDEAL FOR: Filmgoers who fell hook, line, and sinker for the interspecies romance protagonised by Jake Sully (a former human) and Neytiri (part of the nature-loving Na’vi tribe).

guy, Calvin. The latter sets out to prove Lauren’s theory wrong by setting up five of his friends with a hot enchantress. If the seductress succeeds, then Lauren’s theory will be proven right and she will dump Calvin after the six-month ‘expiry date’, but if she fails, then Lauren will have to concede that love can last beyond the ‘honeymoon phase’.

Z IDEAL FOR: Those who (like me) miss Jennifer Aniston rom-coms; viewers in need of something light and quirky after a long day.

THE PIG THEORY

This Kelly Asbury-directed flick may be a kids’ animation but if you’ve seen the trailer then you probably know that it is capable of cracking even the hardest of hearts. The film give new life to the Romeo and Juliet legend, which is set in a gnome-filled universe.

Voices are provided by James McAvoy, Emily Blunt, Maggie Smith, and more.

IDEAL FOR: Children in need of a light introduction to one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated works. e

Harvey Lowry directs Thora Birch, Chris Klein and Claire Coffee in this cutesy film about Lauren – a young woman who, sick of being treated badly by one boyfriend after another, launches a blog promoting the PIG Theory. The latter espouses that romance is fine, but only for six months; after that, everything is destined to turn sour. Lauren’s sister Gena tries desperately to be a guru of light, introducing Lauren to the perfect

GNOMEO & JULIET

30 / FEBRUARY 2018 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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w THE TREND music

¿QUÉ PASA?

2018 got off to a morbid start with four well known artists passing away in the first few weeks with CRANBERRIES singer DOLORES O'RIORDAN (aged 46), who had a big hit with Zombie, FAST EDDIE CLARK, the guitarist with MOTORHEAD (76), Queen of the Blues DENISE LASALLE (78) and EDWIN HAWKINS (74) the Gospel legend who is best known for the song Oh Happy Day. The MERSEY BEATLES are a tribute band playing Málaga's Teatro de Cervantes on February 13 and next month GLENN MILLER fans have a chance to see the PASEDENA ROOF ORCHESTRA plus an ANDREWS SISTERS tribute on March 7. Ticket info: teatrocervantes.es

COOPER will then go on to tour with the HOLLYWOOD VAMPIRES project along with JOE PERRY (AEROSMITH) and actor JOHNNY DEPP, who is said to play a real mean guitar.

(12pm to 1:45pm). This annual get together usually attracts very big audiences and over 30 bands are playing live. For the full line-up, venues and prices check out rockinrace.com

FRANZ FERDINAND

All information on this page was correct at the time of writing.

JOHNNY DEPP

DOLORES O'RIORDAN

WORDS RIK FOXX

On the goggle box this month, at about 1:45am during the early hours of Monday February 5, the prestigious American football Superbowl half-time show features JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE live on stage and maybe a special guest or two will join him. He will no doubt be playing tunes off his first album in five-years, Man of the Woods, which drops on February 2.

UK 1980/1990s indie legends SIMPLE MINDS will perform at Granada's Plaza de Toros on June 28. You can buy tickets from your local FNAC, Carrefour, Halcón Viajes or on line at ticketmaster.es or culturaenlarena.com

On February 7, BBC2 will air Eurovision: You Decide where six acts (due to be announced after our deadline date) will perform in front of a studio audience and there will be a live public vote to find out who will represent the UK at this year's competition in Portugal on May 12. The popular 2016 Y (as in why) Factor runner-up SAARA SOFIA AALTO has already been announced as Finland's act and there has been talk that the Irish want ex SEX PISTOL front man JOHN LYDON (A.K.A. ROTTEN) as their man.

If you were away over the festive period, Marbella's Starlite Festival announced its first acts for this summer with STING on July 19, DAVID BISBAL (July 20), IL DIVO (July 28) and PABLO ALBORAN (August 1). For more updates and ticket info: starlitemarbella.com

And on February 21, the 2018 Brits Awards will be live on ITV1 with special programmes before and after the show on one of ITV's other channels. Scheduled to perform are ED SHEERAN, FOO FIGHTERS, SAM SMITH, DUA LIPA and STORMZY.

For those into rockabilly, the 24th Rockin’ Race Jamboree Festival takes place in Torremolinos between February 1 to 4 with 1960s star CHRIS MONTEZ (of Let's Dance fame) topping the bill. There are also free performances in the Plaza de Nogalera on the 3rd (12pm to 2:45pm), and the Plaza del Remo on the 4th

US channel NBC is putting together a TV extravaganza that will air on Easter Sunday (April 1) – Jesus Christ Superstar Live has already cast JOHN LEGEND in the starring role, former shock rocker ALICE COOPER as King Herod and 2018 Grammy-nominated singer SARA BAREILLES as Mary Magdalene.

Looks like ED SHEERAN will continue in 2018 where he left off in 2017 and he started by clocking up both the first UK number one single and album of the year. He announced that he has written a track for the forthcoming JAMES BOND movie if it's required. Also, he's been lined up to write tunes for the proposed WESTLIFE reunion – well, it might save them lifting other people's songs for a change.

Mystery is currently surrounding the said WESTLIFE 20th anniversary plans. Manager LOUIS WALSH says it's on while singer MARK FEEHILY says it's not as he has plans of his own. Meanwhile, former rebel member BRIAN McFADDEN has been touring with KEITH DUFFY (BOYZONE) as BOYZLIFE and he is hoping that the project will inspire all nine members of the two groups to unite and perform together –

can't see Mr WALSH allowing that to ever happen.

We all know how the vinyl revolution has taken off big time over the past few years but now it seems there are plans to bring cassettes back onto the market. In the US, many albums have already being released in this format and veterans FRANZ FERDINAND are leading the charge in Europe by releasing their new LP Always Ascending on February 9 in CD, vinyl and cassette formats.

Mad MARIAH was up to her old tricks again – on her pre-festive UK tour she insisted that her rider (an artist's dressing room demands) included M & M's – but only white ones as the coloured shells might leave marks on her teeth. Then while performing live in New York on New Year's Eve, she stopped the gig and demanded a cup of hot tea. e

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Wellness Design

A masterpiece to enhance your Home Wellness experience. Technogym RUN PERSONAL combines the design of Antonio Citterio with cutting-edge technology offering the ultimate multimedia training.

TECHNOGYM MARBELLA - Bulevard Principe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, Centro Comercial La Poveda, local 2 Call 900.898.899 or visit technogym.com

w THE TREND books

TOP SELLING Reads for t he Mont h Marisa Cutillas brings you a select list of books that are flying off the shelves.

ORIGIN BY DAN BROWN

In this exciting novel set in Barcelona and Bilbao, Harvard professor Robert Langdon arrives at the Guggenheim Museum to attend the unveiling of a discovery that promises to “change the face of science forever.” The host of the event is Edmond Kirsch, a tech visionary who was once Langdon’s pupil. Before Kirsch presents his findings, chaos ensues, and Langdon is forced to find a way to locate a password that will unlock Kirsch’s secret, with potentially profound consequences for people’s beliefs and the world’s religions.

A COLUMN OF FIRE

BY KEN FOLLETT

The Pillars of the Earth saga continues with this gripping novel, set in the winter of 1558.

Young Ned Willard returns to Kingsbridge to find that his home has changed. Europe is in turmoil, religious hatred abounds, and Ned’s ideals clash with those of the love of his life, Margery Fitzgerald. Then, Elizabeth Tudor is proclaimed Queen and Europe unleashes its fury on England. The Queen sets up her own secret service to discover plots against her throne, but the events that unfold reveal that her biggest problem is not the rivalry of religions, but rather, the clash between tolerance and tyranny.

THE ROOSTER BAR

BY JOHN GRISHAM

Mar, Todd and Zola are third year law students who are neck deep in student debt and worried that they won’t find a job. When they discover that their law school is owned by a shady New York hedge fund operator who also deals in student loans, they realise they have fallen for a big scam. They have a few months left until graduation, but they have a perfect plan: to quit law school and put an end to the financial sabotage they have just experienced.

THE WHISPERING ROOM BY DEAN KOONTZ

“No time to delay. Do what you were born to do. Fame will be yours when you do this.” These are the words that plague young schoolteacher Cora Gundersun, just before she commits a mass murder, then kills herself. Was she simply out of her mind or do her actions reveal a more sinister plot?

FBI agent Jane Hawk, who has just lost her husband to suicide, discovers the existence of a ruthless group who are manipulating people into unheard-of actions. Driven by her love for her husband and fearing for the life of her son, she embarks on a relentless hunt to stop those who think they are above the law.

HARDCORE TWENTYFOUR BY JANET EVANOVICH

Cool sleuth Stephanie Plum, is once again summoned to save the day after a slew of mutilated corpses are found on the streets of New Jersey. At first, the killer ‘plays’ with dead bodies from the morgue but subsequent murders reveal that a serial killer is on the loose. Meanwhile, hunky cop Diesel is back in town, which adds a bit of tension at the station. Who is behind the mutilations and does Diesel have anything to do with it?

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w THE TREND technology

Live streaming, once reserved for important business conferences and events, is now a popular trend among marketing and social media professionals, and individuals seeking to influence and inspire.

Research has shown that 87 per cent of people prefer online to traditional TV and 59 per cent choose streaming over live TV, so it could be worth your while going live at least for a few minutes a day. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

RISE OF

LIVE STREAMING Are You Ready to Tune In? WHAT IS THE APPEAL OF LIVE STREAMING? Reality TV is undoubtedly to ‘blame’ for our interest in live streaming. The idea that we are watching behaviour that is often unstructured appeals; it enables us to be a ‘fly on the wall’, to inhale a little of the good life as we watch our favourite stars shop, eat, and travel.

Live streaming takes reality TV to the next level, since in addition to the ‘anything can happen’ factor, it is irresistible.

The social media element only makes streaming more thrilling, since we can make pertinent comments and reply to people chatting on Twitter or YouTube about the same show or event we are viewing. In other words, what makes it so addictive is the opportunity it offers for networking and socialisation.

We may be ubiquitously connected, but many of us, it seems, feel lonely and isolated, turning to the very source of

our isolation in many cases (our gadgets) to make deeper connections. Thus, we enjoy watching influencers, friends, or even strangers take part in interesting or, sometimes, mundane activities.

It may be hard to believe, but in Asia, streaming is huge; so much so that normal, everyday people live stream themselves singing, eating out, and even sleeping… and someone is always watching them!

SAILING THE MONEY STREAM Some streamers have managed to enrich themselves with this newfound hobby. Jason Lee Byung Jun, for instance, is a 21-year-old Singaporean student. He started out by streaming a few music covers; now, he hosts his own weekly music show (Busking Robin), which he uses as an opportunity to introduce local artists to his voracious audience.

Other streamers rely on interactive features like live calls to create a tighter connection

with their audience. Still others answer questions posed on live chat by users, giving a kind-of ‘free interview’ which is often very informative, especially if the speaker is an expert in their field of interest.

You may have a friend or two on Facebook who is currently availing of this technology; I have one friend who works for a make-up company; she constantly posts live videos of herself applying different products to her skin and creating rather fabulous party looks. It is a fantastic way to connect in a more personal manner with products you see on a store shelf but often don’t have a clue as to how to apply or make the most of.

Another great thing about live viewing is that you can watch all the vids you missed, in your own time. You can also replay comments and, subsequently, add your own to the discussion. You certainly won’t be the only user watching a video post-stream, so regardless of where you are in the

world, you can always feel like part of a vibrant community.

If you are interested in employing live streaming as part of your company’s marketing campaign, it is wise to plan your content well. Until you are more used to this technology, a bit of structure will come in handy, so think carefully about what aspect of your company, or what product or service, you are most keen to build greater awareness of.

Consistency is also important; aim to upload one or two videos a day, and include live chats, to encourage people to share their interests.

Finally, ensure that your connection is strong and secure, and check for details such as lighting and sound before you start. Remember that the quality of your video symbolises that of your business, so ‘think before you speak’ was never more pertinent than when you are live, potentially before hundreds, thousands, or millions of people. e

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w THE TREND motoring

JAGUAR E-TYPE ZERO A serious threat classic car owners may one day have to face in many countries is the outright banning of internal combustion engines. Of course, in some cases this is political rhetoric plain and simple, but it does cast something of a shadow over the entire collector car field.

WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JAGUAR

F

or drivers who’d love to own a classic but are reluctant to take the plunge with petrol as a fuel, Jaguar may have the answer. The E-Type Zero, a concept right now, could offer the opportunity to own a sports car that’s been described as the most beautiful automobile ever built. Under that sensual bonnet lurks not a traditional Jaguar inline twin-cam six, but a powerful electric drivetrain that endows the Jag with more speed than the original model boasted back in the 1960s. Like all pure electric vehicles, the Zero creates no emissions whatsoever and is quiet and smooth to drive.

The E-Type Zero, which made its debut late last year in London, is based on the 1968 Series 1.5 E-Type Roadster and was engineered by Jaguar Land Rover Classic at the division’s new Coventry, UK, factory. The facility is close to where the original E-Type was born. Jaguar points out that one of the aims of the Zero is to future-proof classic car ownership. Initially, the exercise is just a concept, but Jaguar is watching reaction to the car closely to assess whether full production is a worthwhile proposition.

According to Jaguar, the E-Type Zero will accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h

in 5.5-seconds, a second quicker than the original Series 1 E-Type. Any Jaguar enthusiast will confirm that performance claims for the original car were often not met, but nobody cared much because it looked so good. Electric motors are noted for the amount of torque they develop and the rapid delivery of that torque. With electric vehicles, there is none of the ‘spooling up’ of power you experience with an internal combustion engine. Full power with a car like the Zero is available ‘right now’ and it’s a thrilling experience for the driver.

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The Zero is based on a restored roadster with a totally original specification, apart from the electric powertrain, efficient LED headlights (hiding within original streamlined glazing) and a modified instrument panel and dash. The electric powertrain develops 220kW and was specifically designed for the Zero. Interestingly, it has similar dimensions and weight to the original 3.8-litre six-cylinder petrol engine. It’s also in the same location to offer comparable weight distribution to the old car. The battery pack sits behind the motor in the same position as the gearbox on the 1960s car. All told, the car weights about 46kg less than the old model.

The aim of the design team was to ensure that the Zero handled, rode and braked just like the old Series 1.

Jaguar underlines that the electric powertrain could be fitted to any of the company’s classic models that were built around the twin-cam six, so perhaps one day we could see electric recreations of the XK120, Mk2 and XJ6. It all depends on how the market response turns

out. It’s worth remembering that Jaguar is no stranger to electric powertrains and many of the components and technology used in the E-Type Zero came from the upcoming i-Pace, which is just entering production.

As far as range goes, the Zero is expected to run for about 270km without recharging the 40kWh battery. This should be more than adequate because few owners of a car like this would take it on a lengthy road trip, any more than they would an original Series 1 E-Type.

Recharging takes six or seven hours, so it’s an overnight job.

Right now, Jaguar is riding the crest of a wave with record sales worldwide and production numbers undreamed of just a few years ago. Enthusiasts will rejoice in the fact that the fabled manufacturer is spending at least a little of its profits on projects like the E-Type Zero. Jaguar built its reputation on legendary sports cars and sports saloons and the company is not going to forget that any time soon. e

Z ENGINE: 220kW electric motor with 40 kWh battery.

Z TRANSMISSION: Direct drive.

Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 5.5-seconds.

Z TOP SPEED: Around 250 km/h.

Z I LIKED: A delightfully ambitious effort and a wonderful way to future-proof one of the great sports cars of history. Impressive performance and handling. Reasonable range for the battery and few owners will need more.

Z I DIDN’T LIKE: The engine noise of a classic E-Type will be sorely missed!

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Many builders of premium sports cars are working with electric drivetrains, but nobody yet has even hinted at electrifying a classic like the E-Type.

Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Classic car lovers who fear the banning of early models in some parts of the world. Any Jaguar collector out to add a unique model to the collection. Perhaps the car will appeal to buyers who always wanted a classic but never took the plunge because of potential maintenance demands associated with complex vintage petrol engines.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Yet to be announced by Jaguar.

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p the focus CULTURE HISTORY FEATURES CELEBS INTERVIEWS HUMOUR

42

Love, Actually

46

Valentine’s Day Rocks

48

Women Influencers

54

Curvy Models

64

The Hills by Solvilla

WE HOPE YOU ENJOY OUR FEATURES ON LOVE THROUGHOUT THE AGES, WOMEN INFLUENCERS AND CURVY MODELS… AND JUST IN CASE YOU EVER DOUBTED IT, VALENTINE’S DAY WILL NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE!

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p THE FOCUS love

LOVE, ACTUALLY

St Valentine’s Day is a bitter-sweet occasion. Singles wait expectantly for that surprise message from a secret admirer while women in relationships expect to be wined, dined and showered with tokens of love. It doesn’t always happen, of course… So, were men more chivalrous in days of old? Belinda Beckett presents a retrospective on romance.

I

f prostitution is the oldest profession, love is one of the oldest emotions although it hasn’t always played the lead role in relationships. The ancient Greeks regarded love as a sickness sent by the Gods as a punishment, while the Romans often valued courtesans more highly than the women who lived with them as their wives. In fact, the concept of romantic love as the basis for sex and marriage is quite recent, while modern relationships have only just arrived back at the point they’d reached before the fall of the Roman Empire, when women were economically and legally emancipated, children were a luxury rather than an asset and sexual enjoyment deemed the right of all.

Christianity must take most of the blame for plunging the world into a Dark Ages of guilt-laden or joyless sex, where women were chattel. Typical of the dual standards of those times, women were expected to be virtuous but noblemen were given the right to ravish any peasant woman on the road and to deflower all brides of their vassals. Christian marital sex was supposed to be performed only in the ‘missionary position’, never during Lent or

holy days and then, only to conceive a child.

The church even sanctioned wife beating.

For the clergy themselves, ‘sex without value’ (rape, orgies or with a prostitute) was not regarded as such a serious offence as sex involving love.

COURTLY LOVE RITUALS Many of the courting rituals that still exist today, such as buying a woman jewellery, sending her flowers or a romantic Valentine’s card, stem from Medieval times, an age of chivalry when society broke out of its moral chastity belt to follow a romantic ideal previously unknown to Western civilization: ‘courtly love’, a reaction to loveless arranged marriages which were purely financial or political alliances. It developed in the castle courts of France from around the time of the First Crusade (1099), finding its expression in lyric poems written by troubadours such as William of Aquitaine, a pioneer of this New Romanticism.

Courtly love had its own etiquette and language which historians trace to the Arabic poetry of Al-Andalus, where practices similar to courtly love were prevalent.

As William was involved in the ongoing Reconquista of Muslim Spain, he would have come into contact with Muslim culture a great deal. The concept spread to Britain with his grand-daughter Eleanor, when she became Queen of both France and England and her ‘Court of Love’ earned her the name Queen of Hearts, beating Princess Diana to the title by many centuries.

Originally, courtly love celebrated a platonic relationship between a young knight and a married lady whose husband was away on a Crusade. The knight was usually a younger brother without land (and, thus, unable to support a wife) who was a member of the household of the feudal lord he served. The lady was typically married to the lord, older than the knight and of higher social status. The knight would serve his courtly lady with the same obedience and loyalty as his liege lord.

The practice was seen as both a safety valve, providing a model of behaviour for a class of unmarried young men who might otherwise have threatened social stability, and an ennobling force, as the knight was inspired to do great deeds in order to be worthy of his lady.

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Under courtly love rules, the sex act was considered false love, while true love could be everything else but. Many scholars identify this as the ‘pure love’ described in 1184 by the courtier Andreas Capellanus in De Amore: “It goes as far as the kiss and the embrace and the modest contact with the nude lover, omitting the final solace, for that is not permitted for those who wish to love purely...

That is called mixed love, which gets its effect from every delight of the flesh and culminates in the final act of Venus.”

These restrictions made courtly love a clandestine, bittersweet affair of endless frustrations – but not always; rules were made to be broken and courtly love evolved into a sanctioned form of adultery – a Nine Commandments precisely set out in stages not disimilar to the plot of a modern paperback romance: Z Attraction to the lady, usually via eye contact Z Worship of the lady from afar Z Declaration of passionate devotion Z Virtuous rejection by the lady Z Renewed wooing with oaths of virtue and eternal fealty Z Despair from unsatisfied desire and other physical manifestations of lovesickness Z Heroic deeds of valour which win the lady's heart Z Consummation of the secret love Z Endless adventures and subterfuges while avoiding detection

"Love is the dirty trick played on us to achieve continuation of the species".

W. Somerset Maugham.

"If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it’s yours; if it doesn’t, it never was." Richard Bach.

KISS OF DEATH The Church fought back but men, typically, got off lightly. Physically desirable women suspected of adhering to courtly love traditions were proclaimed evil sorceresses and, by 1450, the official Catholic dogma even established that witches existed and could fly by night. Pope Innocent VII's infamous Bull of 1484 advocated hanging them by their thumbs, twisting ropes around their heads, pushing needles under their nails and pouring boiling oil on their feet to force them to confess.

However, even the church couldn’t keep romance at bay for long and pleasurable love rose to the fore once more during the Renaissance, although it was still far from being the basis for wedlock. Marriage was still a life-long financial transaction that usually took place when a girl was 14-16 years old and included a dowry, plus income and property guarantees. Henry VIII was among the first major figures in history to break with tradition and combine love and marriage. He waged a long battle with the church to secure a divorce from his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, in order to marry Anne Boleyn (although, as history reveals, it didn’t last).

Another champion of romance in marriage was Martin Luther, who asserted that wedlock was not a religious sacrament but a civil matter. He shocked the world when he claimed that Christ probably committed adultery with Mary Magdalene, and other women, so as to fully experience the nature of man. Luther himself married for love.

Writers of the day also helped to change the concept of love and marriage. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet was a case in point, where two star-crossed lovers from rival families attempt to fly in the face of tradition for love.

Surprisingly the Puritans, who came on the scene next, also helped to further the cause of romantic love. Contrary to popular belief, they greatly enjoyed sex inside marriage and even condemned the ‘popish’ concept of the virtue of virginity. The 17th century poet, John Milton was a Puritan who held idealistic and romantic views about marriage expressed in Paradise Lost.

Although sex before marriage was still not the ‘done thing’, it was acknowledged that young passions should have some outlet and the strange custom of ‘bundling’ was practised during the 16th and 17th centuries. Couples could share a bed, fully clothed, separated by a ‘bundling board’ or a bolster tied between the girl’s legs, allowing them to get to know each other without going too far.

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READING BETWEEN THE LOVE LINES

Want to know what the person is REALLY like behind those promising descriptions in personal columns and on Internet dating sites?

Z GOOD HOUSEKEEPER – She’s been married three times and kept all the houses Z STRONG FAMILY TIES – She’s a Mafia princess Z WONDERFUL PERSONALITY – She's chubby Z GSOH – She’s chubby and will laugh at anything you say Z THE OUTDOOR TYPE – She hunts, fishes and plays golf, just like the guys Z READY TO SETTLE DOWN – Her biological clock is ticking Z LIKES GOOD TIMES – She could drink Ab Fab’s Patsy and Edina under the table Z YOUNG AT HEART – She dresses like Patsy and Edina

"Love is grand...

Divorce is 80 grand".

Anonymous

Straight-laced Love PICK-UP LINE COME-BACKS

Man: Haven’t I seen you someplace before?

Woman: Yes, that’s why I don’t go there anymore.

Man: Is this seat empty?

Woman: Yes, and this one will be, too, if you sit down.

Man: Your place or mine?

Woman: Both. You go to yours, and I'll go to mine.

Man: So, what do you do for a living?

Woman: I’m a female impersonator.

Man: Hey baby, what's your sign?

Woman: No entry.

Man: How do you like your eggs in the morning?

Woman: Unfertilised.

"Love is the drug which makes sexuality palatable in popular mythology".

Germaine Greer.

During the 18th century Age of Reason, romance fell out of favour again. New scientific and rational outlooks replaced the mystical and intuitive ones of the past and huge emphasis was placed on social etiquette. The emotional life of humans disappeared behind the facade of elegant manners and icy self-control. This love idealised the mythical Don Juan who was impeccably mannered, lustful, haughty and false. Love was often reduced to a malicious sport, the motive to seduce.

This changed again during 19th century Victorianism, when emotional control was losing ground to ‘sensibility’. Love now became a noble goal. Men sought not the dazzling, flirtatious woman but the shy, virginal one. A woman being courted was permitted to summon up only ‘a timid blush or the faintest of smiles’ to convey her feelings. Nearly all written work about the private lives of Victorians omitted references to sex and love. It was even alleged that Robert Browning, a popular writer of the time, had never seen his wife naked.

Courting became almost an art form among the upper classes. An interested gentleman could not simply walk up to a young lady and begin a conversation. Once they had been formally introduced, if the gentleman wished to escort the lady home he would present his card to her. At the end of the evening, the lady would look over her options and select her escort, notifying the lucky gentleman by giving him her own card. Almost all courting took place at the girl’s home, always under the eye of watchful parents. If the courting progressed, the couple might advance to the private drawing room or front porch. Smitten couples rarely saw each other without the presence of a chaperone, and marriage proposals were frequently written.

The backlash to this Victorian repression manifested itself in a great hunger for sexual fantasy.

Pornography, and prostitution rose dramatically. At the same time, the structure of marriage was crumbling as women began rebelling against their oppressive ‘glorified’ status. The rigid Victorian home was threatened by female suffrage, divorce reforms and rising prosperity. Children began to leave home to follow their own lives, depriving women of many of their functions. The reasonably affluent man could now concentrate more on a woman’s value as a love partner, rather than as a decorative bauble or baby factory.

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The Dating Game by many sociologists as a loveless, competitive contest. But it was a healthy breakthrough, enabling potential partners to get to know each other better before taking the marital plunge.

The Sixties’ sexual revolution changed everything yet again and, with the Internet, courtship has gone global. Today, while love is still desirable in marriage, marriage is not necessary for sex. Some people believe that free love and contraception on demand

has killed the art of romance; (Hemingway compared it to a douche bag when he wrote: “Love is something that hangs up behind the bathroom door and smells of Lysol”).

But most people still believe that love, rather than just sex, is an essential component of a fulfilling relationship and, over-commercial as it has become, Valentine’s Day is a celebration of the concept of romantic love that is continuing to keep it alive. e

© Image by Vogue

With this grew a new age of romantic love, the increasing divorce rate reflecting not the failure of love but the increasing refusal of people to live without love and happiness.

Romantic attraction not only became desirable but the only acceptable basis for choosing a life partner.

Dating started in the 1920s as a new way of mate selection although, at first, it was criticised

"Falling in love consists of uncorking the imagination and bottling the common sense". Helen Rowland.

FLIRTATIOUS FACTS

ZZ Fans, imported into Europe during the crusades and still very much part of Spain’s flamenco culture, were first used at court as a way to communicate secret messages and get round restricting social etiquette.

ZZ All the Nordic countries have courtship customs involving knives.

In Norway a girl who was available for marriage would wear an empty sheath on her belt. If a suitor liked the girl, he would put a knife in the sheath, which the girl then wore as a sign that she was betrothed.

ZZ Dating back to 17th century Wales, ornately carved love spoons were traditionally made from a single piece of wood by a suitor to show affection for his loved one. The decorative carvings had different significance; an anchor meant, ‘I desire to settle down’; an intricate vine meant, ‘Our love will grow’.

ZZ More than 10,000 marriages a year are directly traceable to romances which begin during office coffee breaks.

ZZ The first diamond engagement ring was presented in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy.

ZZ Two out of five people marry their first love.

ZZ One in five men still proposes on bended knee.

ZZ Romance novels earn more money in the USA than baseball.

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p THE FOCUS valentines day

I Grudgingly Admit It…

VALENTINE’S M DAY atters!

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

A

s a teen (nerdy, Robert Smith haircut, Gothic clothing), I firmly believed that the world was divided into two types of people: those who loved Valentine’s day and those who hated it. Given my limited chances of nabbing a date at the time (compounded by the fact I attended a Catholic girls’ school), I decidedly hated everything about the occasion: the tacky cards, the disgusting combination of red, pink and lace paraphernalia in shop windows, those horrible long-stemmed roses (better when natural, worse when made of plastic or containing artificial lighting or music).

I therefore decided to rebel; sure, my inspiration was some infantile character from Family Ties, whose idea to celebrate ‘I love you day’ arbitrarily, made all the sense in the world. I cut out hearts, wrote notes to family members, and announced that day as a special day. Mum loved it; the memory still makes me cringe to this day. I was mushier than I thought, and I, too, enjoyed celebrating love… the only problem is, that was the first and last ‘I love you’ event to take place at home. The following year, it was back to scathing criticism of Valentine’s: a kitsch day for unimaginative sops. The whole horrible, materialistic

excuse for a celebration somehow conjured up images of bad suits, red bow ties, and Spandau Ballet playing in the background. Get it together, guys, there are better ways to let your lady love know you are into her…

Time passes for all of us, however, and obtaining a job at meant I was no longer permitted to wear smeared lipstick and stovepipes, and the spikey hair was deemed a no-no. My hate-hate relationship with Valentine’s reared its ugly head once again when I started dating my husband. We had been going out for almost a year, and when February, 2004 rolled round the corner, I wondered if I would get something special. I hated heart-shaped boxes and bonbons, but if he didn’t get me anything, then I would definitely throw a tantrum. Any decent boyfriend would purchase at least a small item to make his girlfriend feel special and to let her know he was grateful for her, right? My 70-year-old Dad never failed to buy Mum a huge bunch of flowers, always accompanied by a sickeningly sweet card (ok, it is cute).

February, 2004: my gift was one to be remembered. It was a long-stemmed plastic rose, with a screw-on bulb containing perfume.

Ew! The Gothic inside me screeched, but I thanked him and hoped for fresh flowers next year. Every year since then, I have always looked forward to the tacky array of presents – cherry liqueur-filled chocolates (Ew!), more longstemmed roses, you get the picture. I haven’t ever been too keen on those presents, but the day they stop coming, I will probably feel hugely disappointed.

It is difficult to refute the obvious: Valentine’s Day is still worthy of celebration because most of us are simply too busy and consumed by our obligations to celebrate love for what it is – the most precious thing we have in our lives. The problem many people have with this day is the imposition of odd, meaningless aesthetics… the cheapness, and superficiality of it all.

Ultimately, Valentine’s Day should be a personal manifestation of what we feel; an experience instead of a physical gift.

One of the my all-time favourite books on love, The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman, highlights one important fact: the way we express love and understand it, varies depending on which ‘love language’ we prefer. The five languages are: gift giving, quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service (devotion), and physical touch. Each of us tends to prefer one or more of these languages, while our loved ones may have other preferences. Problems can arise when we manifest our way of loving in a language that is incompatible with theirs. The book encourages couples to identify and talk about the specific things our partners can do to make us feel truly loved and appreciated, and vice-cersa.

The ultimate question therefore is: How can you make Valentine’s meaningful for your partner this year? Are they always asking you to spend more time with them? Is there a special set of earrings they have been eyeing for months now? Would they like nothing more than a night by the fireplace cuddling and watching your favourite series while tucking into a box of cherry liqueur-filled chocolates? Their idea of paradise may be your idea of hell (I did say cherry liqueur), but for just one night a year, everyone deserves to experience it. e

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W omen

CHANGING THE WORLD They say that putting your heart, mind and soul into even the smallest acts is the secret of success… this is exactly how some of the biggest female movers and shakers have brought change to the world. Marisa Cutillas brings you just a handful of the world’s most visionary women.

I

t was a huge loss for the world when Zaha Hadid passed away in 2016 at the age of 67. The Iraqi-British architect’s stunning designs grace some of the most enigmatic cities in the world, and she was the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize (in 2004).

Her impressive list of works include the Port Authority in Antwerp, the Wangjing Soho skyscraper in Beijing, Innovation Tower in Hong Kong, the London Aquatics Centre, opened for the 2012 Olympics, and the Library & Learning Centre in Vienna.

Hadid was initially dubbed a ‘paper architect’ whose visions could not realistically be brought to life, but she reshaped modern architecture by proving that anything is possible. The so-called ‘Queen of Curve’ was a caffeineguzzling, flamboyant, independent woman who believed in the power of experimentation. The buildings she has left behind are a reminder of the importance of belief in the ‘impossible’.

ZAHA HADID DREAM BIG

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KATHRYN BIGELOW BE COURAGEOUS This gutsy director, whose list of works includes the adrenalin-filled Point Break and the emotionally powerful The Hurt Locker, was the first woman in history to win an Oscar (in this case, for The Hurt Locker, a low-budget film that brought the audiences into the minefilled trenches of the Iraq war).

Touted a ‘director with a different take’, she consistently pushes boundaries, facing Mother Nature fearlessly (almost risking her crew’s life in the tsunami-like waves of Point Break), climbing a forbidden sand dune to

shoot a scene of a bomb being detonated (The Hurt Locker), or exposing polemic topics such as prisoner of war torture in Zero Dark Thirty and racial discrimination in Detroit.

She has been known to subvert traditional Hollywood storylines, turn gender representations on their head, and lend a distinctly female gaze to her work, while deftly managing difficult subjects such as violence, tension, and action. Be prepared to be shaken to the core by her films, which are every bit as fearless as the director herself.

SUNITA WILLIAMS SEIZE THE DAY

She is an astronaut… need we say more?

She previously held the record for total spacewalks for a woman (seven) and was the first person in history to run a marathon in space, completing the 42.2 km of the Boston Marathon on a treadmill in four hours and 24 minutes.

As of March 2016, Williams has spent 50 hours and 40 minutes walking in space.

In addition to completing her missions, she works for Boeing and SpaceX, training their commercial crew for future flights.

Williams seems to have been made for greatness; she joined the American Navy quite by chance, following her brother’s suggestion.

It didn’t take long for her to prove her leadership skills; she showed what she was made of as a helicopter pilot, and later, a test pilot. “I got down to NASA at Johnson Space Center and realised that I could do the things those guys were doing, like anybody can when they have that opportunity and take it,” she says. She takes her cue from the hero of The Martian, who faces his daunting task (survival) one day at a time. Teamwork, she says, is what space travel is all about.

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© Phil Anthony / Shutterstock.com

GINI ROMETTY: LET TECHNOLOGY TAKE YOU SOMEWHERE

RESHMA SAUJANI: TEACH GIRLS THE VALUE OF COURAGE

SERENA WILLIAMS: BE TWICE AS GOOD

She has achieved what many thought was impossible: producing IBM’s best earning report in almost a decade.

Rometty is IBM’s current chairperson, president, and CEO, and the first woman to head the company. She originally joined IBM as an engineer in 1981, working her way up to pole position slowly but steadily. She was deemed sixth most powerful woman in the world by Forbes in 2017.

Rometty has achieved what her predecessors have failed to do, by focussing on lucrative areas such as cloud and analytics products, to counterbalance the decline in demand for software.

In 2016, IBM purchased The Weather Company, to change the way weather is forecast. During 2017’s Hurricane Irma, IBM’s new Weather Channel app helped airlines reroute to avoid the storm, thus highlighting the importance of technology in saving lives.

Rometty and her team are currently delving deep into artificial intelligence, which she calls ‘cognitive computing’. When Bloomberg asked why this is such an important focus for her, she answered, “A study said on average that a third of your decisions are really great decisions, a third are not optimal, and a third are just wrong. We’ve estimated the market is $2 billion for tools to make better decisions… we really think this is about man and machine, not man vs. machine. This is an era – really an era that will play out for decades in front of us.”

She is the Founder and CEO of Girls Who Code, although she began her career as a lawyer and activist. Reshma Saujani’s mission in life is to encourage young women to take risks and learn to programme. In a fascinating TED talk (viewed by over three million people online), she noted, “We’re raising our girls to be perfect and we’re raising our boys to be brave. Some people worry about our federal deficit, but I worry about our bravery deficit.”

Women are still sorely under-represented in politics, boardrooms, and pretty much everywhere we look. Saujani mentions studies which show that bright girls are more likely to give up on difficult assignments, while bright boys find difficult material challenging and energising. How are we failing our daughters?

Saujani seeks to inspire parents to encourage girls to go for gold, embrace obstacles, and be courageous in all aspects of life. If we continue to raise our daughters with the objective of perfection, she warns, not only they will lose out, society as a whole also will.

From the years to 2002 to 2017, this Michigan-born powerhouse has held the Number One position in the world. She holds the greatest number of titles in singles, doubles and mixed doubles competitions among active players, and has won 23 Grand Slam Titles.

Williams is the only tennis player in history to have won singles titles at least six times in three of the four Grand Slam tournaments, and the only one to have taken home two Grand Slam victories seven times each (Wimbledon and the Australian Open).

She is as successful off the court as on, appearing in fashion shoots, TV shows and music videos. She is also refreshingly outspoken, noticing that she is still affected by racism. Recently, she told Vogue that she felt she was perceived negatively because she was black: “I believe that the other girls in the locker room will say, ‘Serena’s really nice.’ But Maria Sharapova, who might not talk to anybody, might be perceived by the public as nicer. Why is that? Because I’m black and so I look mean? That’s the society we live in.

That’s life. They say African-Americans have to be twice as good, especially women. I’m perfectly OK with having to be twice as good.”

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JILL ABRAMSON: TELL IT LIKE IT IS

JACQUELINE NOVOGRATZ: PAY IT FORWARD

ALICE WATERS: DARE TO TAKE RISKS

This author and journalist was Executive Editor of The New York Times from 2011 to 2014, being the first female executive editor of this 160-yearold newspaper. Surreptitiously fired in 2014 (many say because she confronted the top brass when discovering she had a lower pay and inferior pension benefits than her male predecessor), she was known for making big changes, filling half of her masthead with women to counter such long-lived gender imbalances.

She admits that her brusque, to-the-point manner led her to be seen as pushy, noting that even at her level of success, women are expected to behave in a ‘perfect’ manner. Speaking to the Huffington Post’s Tabby Biddle, she said, ““I think that women, especially some of the younger women that I have talked to about their careers over time, can get very tangled up, and sort of worry and self-analyze about how they may appear and come across. Am I being too aggressive? Am I being forceful enough or aggressive enough?”

Her way was to tell it like it is, exposing lies, corruption, and the treatment of women even at institutions such as Harvard. Under her guiding hand, David Barboza won the Pulitzer Prize (2013) for International Reporting, when he exposed high-level corruption in the Chinese government.

This American entrepreneur and author is the CEO and founder of Acumen, a non-profit global venture capital fund whose goal is to invest in people, companies, and ideas that see capital and networks as means not ends, to solving the toughest issues of poverty.

Novogratz’ passion for giving began when, as a youth, she headed to West Africa with a view to “saving the world.” There, she says, she was told by the women she met that “they didn’t need saving, thank you very much,” and this, she says, led her to comprehend the value of listening. What she learned is that most people in need do not want handouts; they want what we all do: the chance to release their infinite potential.

In her youth, she helped a group of women start the first microfinance bank in the country. There, she noted that money was often channelled to groups whose chance of obtaining access to these resources, was not based on merit, but rather, “on whether they were insiders or outsiders.” She became convinced that a top-down approach was not the way to go; the middle road that was necessary to achieve success, was ‘patient capitalism’: investment in people and ideas that gives people from the lowest economic sectors the time they need to innovate and experiment.

As she recently explained to journalist, Krista Tippett, you cannot expect to make a quick return for investment in countries with muddy roads, no electricity, poor access to water, etc.: “to expect that an enterprise was going to get started and flourish in one to three or even a five-year period was naive, but that if we could use the tools of capitalism and have the patience to invest, expect at or below market returns and combine it with a lot of management assistance… over time, you actually could create a viable entity with sustainability.”

Consider her the American version of Jamie Oliver.

Waters is a chef who first opened a small restaurant, Chez Panisse, in Calfornia in 1971, and who is now a famous activist credited with having inspired a national movement towards local, organic, sustainable food.

The founder of a movement which has sparked food education programmes in over 5,000 schools, opened her restaurant with the humble aim of sharing her interest in French food with friends. A six-month hiatus in Paris fostered her interest in market-fresh foods that provided authentic sustenance for body and mind.

Waters admits that her little venture was a financial disaster, for she never worried about making money. Rather, she was inspired by the counterculture movement holding sway in California at the time, believing that she could do “whatever I wanted… if I failed, I could always make something else.”

In addition to hailing the value of healthy, zerokilometer food, Waters made her name for treating her chefs with something that is a true rarity in the food industry: flexibility. Thus, chefs were given time to research, experiment, and spend time with their families.

She will, perhaps, best be remembered for the important role she has played in food education. As she espoused on the US National Public Radio, “We’re trying to bring children into a new relationship with food where they have an opportunity to work in a garden. They know what it is to plant the seeds and pick the weeds and they’re learning about what it takes to cook food. ... We’ve been separated from this experience through a kind of fast-food indoctrination that’s been going on for the last 50 years. So we need to really come back to our senses and really understand, like most every other country in the world, that food is something precious.” e

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p THE FOCUS fashion

If you are into beauty in any shape or form, then you probably come across names like Huda, Zoella, Nikkie or Iskra on a daily basis. If these talented bloggers/ Instagram phenomenons/vloggers are proving one thing, it is that beauty comes in more than one package. Top social media channels have revealed the extent to which now more than ever, beauty is subjective. Let’s enjoy the ride on this new wave of equality, embracing the body-positive messages promulgated by the new faces of feminine power.

F O E S RI ERSITY V I D

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

MARQUITA: © Sam Aronov / Shutterstock.comCANDICE: © Ovidiu Hrubaru / Shutterstock.com ISKRA: © Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com ASHLEY: © Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com

d l r o W n o i h s i n t he F a

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© JStone / Shutterstock.com

Love handles, cellulite, stretch marks, remind us of who we are, where we’ve been. While working to be fitter and stronger should always be an aim, especially in this day and age of the sedentary lifestyle, it is vital to find a balance between battle and acceptance, as the Desiderata reminds us.

Candice Huffine is a size 12, hardly uncommon, yet she herself acknowledges that had she been born a few years earlier, she would never have had the opportunity to work with high fashion magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, with whom she regularly collaborates.

Candice was a self-proclaimed ‘social butterfly’, born and raised in Washington, D.C. She competed in beauty pageants in her childhood, heading for New York as a teen to try and break into the modelling world. She was a size six; tiny by average standards but too big for the top agencies.

The last one she approached signed her as a ‘plus-sized model’.

She recalls an agent telling her that she probably would make enough money to pay for university, but that she would never be able to live off modelling. However, work began pouring in and when she scored a national campaign with Lane Bryant in 2000, she knew she had made it. In 2011, she would achieve a huge coup when she was asked to pose alongside top models Robyn Lawley and Tara Lynn in a shoot by renowned photographer, Steven Meisel, for Vogue Italy. “That will go down in history for me as a really major moment in my life. Curvy girls didn’t have the opportunity to do editorial work that much. We were catalogue girls, online, e-commerce. You didn’t really see us in an edgy, high-fashion way. That really changed the game,” she told the Washington Post. Candice had dreamed of appearing on the cover of Vogue since she was a little girl; since then, the offers haven’t stopped coming in. Harper’s Bazaar, W, CR Fashion Book have knocked on her doors and recently, she worked as guest editor and model for American Vogue, showing that you can be ‘no angel’ and yet a powerful force to watch out for in fashion.

One of the most fascinating effects of the rise of the curvy model is that it has opened the floodgates for discussion of topics like body image, acceptance, eating disorders, body shaming, etc. Most curvy models have something important to say about the struggle to the top; each and every one is aware of the important role they are playing in raising women’s confidence levels.

Candice notes that these days, it is perfectly fitting to see images of her campaigns alongside those of Kanye West; hardly an eyebrow is raised when we encounter women of all ages, skin tones, and body types, represented as the epitome of beauty in fashion magazines.

Moreover, gone are the days when larger frames had to be hidden in black, tent-like outfits. Candice has said that she loves light, figure-hugging dresses that show off the parts of the body curvier women were always taught they should hide: their arms, thighs, or belly. Candice warns shamers that, far from being a trend, acceptance is here to stay. Sign up for the movement or drop out; nobody has patience for bullies in the new millennium.

Candice HUFFINE

BREAKING THE MOULD

“I DARE YOU TO OWN IT, I DARE YOU TO GET RID OF FILTERS, I DARE YOU TO BE YOUR SEXY.” IF YOU HAVEN’T SEEN CANDICE HUFFINE, ASHLEY GRAHAM AND OTHER BEAUTIFUL CURVY MODELS TAKE A JAB AT VICTORIA’S SECRET IN THE LANE BRYANT AD, IT’S TIME YOU DID. “I’M NO ANGEL,” REPEATS EACH MODEL SMILINGLY, AND THE MIND INSTANTLY CONJURES UP IMAGES OF SLIM, LITHE VICTORIA’S SECRET MODELS WITH LEGS TO ETERNITY; THOSE OF US WHO AREN’T ANGELS EITHER, UNDERSTAND.

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© Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com

ISKRA LAWRENCE, WHO BOASTS ALMOST THREE MILLION FOLLOWERS ON INSTAGRAM ALONE, IS AN ENGLISH MODEL WORKING AS THE GLOBAL ROLE MODEL FOR AERIE, A LINGERIE RETAILER MARKETED AT THE 15-25 DEMOGRAPHIC AND PART OF THE HUGELY SUCCESSFUL AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS BRAND. ISKRA, WHO WAS A COMPETITIVE NATIONAL SWIMMER FOR THE UK, IS ALSO INTO ACTING, HAVING BEEN ACCEPTED INTO THE COMPETITIVE UK NATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE AT THE TENDER AGE OF 15.

Iskra LAWRENCE BEAUTY UNTOUCHED Unlike many celebrities whose surname begins with K (you know who you are, Photoshop queens), Iskra refuses to retouch any of her Instagram images so as to enhance her image. In an industry characterised by vanity and extreme competition, the model has made many bold moves that show she will not be swallowed by the celebrity machine.

In May last year, she published a photo of herself in a lingerie campaign, simultaneously putting up an image of herself before the mirror in her underwear, completely untouched by the cold hand of Photoshop.

She noted that although she had gained a few kilos since the previous pic, “The main difference is that I’m heavily retouched… That smooth ass skin? Not mine – a computer programme did that. The full thick hair – extensions. Push up bra. Waist, legs and arms slimmed with a Photoshop tool.

No eye bags… well actually, no, nothing that makes me resemble the real me. And the worst thing about it… I wanted to look like this!”

Her honesty is a cry to the way the media often plays unfairly with women and men, portraying body images that not even models can naturally aspire to. Iskra is also heavily critical of ‘body shaming’: the mainly online habit that sees people feel like they have the right to criticise others for packing on pounds, ‘looking pregnant’ or generally not fitting into unrealistic images of beauty.

In November 2016, the model left New York subway goers

aghast when she stripped down to her underwear inside a train, inviting them to “celebrate their differences.” She posted the video and wrote, “I strip down to share my voice and use my power to start a conversation about the relationship with ourselves and each other. We all have our own unique power and sharing it with the world is something really special and hopefully the more we can listen and learn from each other, we become more open minded and less judgmental. At the end of the day we are all one race, the human race and we are all equal.”

Of course, the haters had a field day with her cry for equality, stating that one doesn’t need to strip to prove a point.

Still, there is no doubt that nudity (just ask John Lennon and Yoko Ono) has always been a powerful way to garner attention and when it comes to being proud of differences in our body and skin tones, it is deeply symbolic.

Iskra is proud to be a role model for the many teens who simply do not fit into conventional notions of ‘beauty’.

She says that being consistently Photoshopped to a smaller size initially plagued her with self-doubt, but today, she wishes to remind women that selfacceptance, is beauty. Although she acknowledges that models often do not have the power to say ‘no’ to clients wishing to use Photoshop, Instagram is the one place where they can show how beautiful Mother Nature made them – it is a kind of perfection that no computer programme could ever improve upon.

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“YOU ARE BOLD, YOU ARE BRILLIANT AND YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. THERE IS NO OTHER WOMAN LIKE YOU BECAUSE YOU… ARE YOUR OWN KIND OF WOMAN.” THESE ARE THE WORDS THAT ASHLEY GRAHAM, ARGUABLY THE WORLD’S TOP CURVY MODEL, TELLS HERSELF EVERY MORNING, “TO REMIND MYSELF WHO I AM, TO REMIND MYSELF OF WHAT I HAVE OVERCOME, AND OF WHAT I AM WORTH AND THE WOMAN I AM TODAY.”

A shley GRAHAM ONE OF A KIND

Despite being one of the most stunning women to have graced the covers of glossy mags, compared by many to Kelly Brook, Ashley still carries the burden of heavy criticism, from her early years in her profession.

Freedom, she says, came when she realised that she would never fit into the narrow mold that society wished to put her into. “I understood,” she says, “that perfection and fashion don’t go hand in hand. I love my cellulite, my rolls, the inner part of my thighs that jiggle, and touch; it’s gorgeous.”

Ashley proudly proclaims herself a model, designer (she is famed for her sexy lingerie line), and body activist. In addition to advocating for acceptance of diversity, she is not afraid to point out the huge inconsistencies in both fashion and media. “Plus size in the US starts at a size 8, yet the average American woman’s size, is 14.”

Labels hurt, words are powerful; labelling a woman ‘plus’ based on her body instead of her achievements hardly makes sense, especially when the standards they are being held up against are unattainable for so many.

Ashley’s huge social media following enables her to consistently call out the fashion industry. Last year, for instance, she was invited to one of the highlights of the international fashion calendar, the Met Gala, in which celebrities and it girls strut their stuff in particularly unique, creative dresses that are as haute couture as they get. Ashley didn’t attend for an incredible reason: she couldn’t fit into sample sizes, and no designer would dress her. The publicity garnered by this faux pas led to change; this year, she showed up in a ravishing red-and-white gown, designed by H&M Couture. At least some companies know how to get it right!

Ashley seemed to hit the nail on the head from a very early age.

Her beauty led her to be courted

by an international modelling agency at age 13 and since then, she has shone in many areas, including editorial, catalogue, runway, commercial, television, and film.

In 2015, she became the first size 14 model to appear in a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition. In 2016, she became the first ever curvy model to feature on the cover of this iconic magazine.

Ashley has achieved what would have been impossible in the 1980s or 1990s: she has graced the cover of Vogue and countless other magazines. In 2016, she was deemed one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30; in the same year, she was named ‘Woman of the Year’ by Glamour, as well as one of the ’25 Most Intriguing People of the Year’ (People Magazine). This year, she made it to TIME’s 2017 ‘Most Influential People in the World’ List. Somehow, it seems the significance of what she has achieved is only beginning to be appreciated.

Countless women who grew up in past decades with a few pounds on them, perennially on diets, growing up in an ambience of self-hate and possibly as the victims of bullies, wish they had Ashley to look up to when they were teens. Teens today are so much luckier, with a wide array of role models to revere and emulate.

When skinny 1980s model, Cheryl Tiegs (now almost 70) criticised Graham’s Sports Illustrated cover for “glamorizing full-figured women… your waist should be smaller than 35 inches, that’s what Dr. Oz said,” adding that Graham had “a pretty face” but was “not healthy,” Ashley assertively replied: “Cheryl Tiegs may have said what she said and it may have hurt a lot of people’s feelings, but my skin is so thick. I kind of rolled my eyes, I was like, 'Oh whatever, another one of these ladies.'

But the fact that she said it means that other women think like her. And what that means is that we really need to change the industry. There are too many people thinking they can look at a girl my size and say that we are unhealthy. You can't, only my doctor can!"

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Marquit a PRING DEFYING CANONS OF BEAUTY

HAILED

BY VOGUE ITALY AS ‘A NEW STAR IN THE CURVY UNIVERSE’, MARQUITA PRING HAS STUNNED ON THE COVER OF COUNTLESS FASHION MAGAZINES AND ASTOUNDED AT FASHION SHOWS

BY DESIGNERS THE CALIBRE OF JEAN PAUL GAULTIER. UNLIKE MODELS WHO SPECIFICALLY EMBRACE TERMS LIKE ‘PLUS SIZE’, MARQUITA PREFERS TO BE REFERRED TO SIMPLY AS ‘A MODEL’. SHE RECENTLY TOLD FASHIONISTA, “I DO MANY OF THE SAME JOBS AS OTHERS MODELS REGARDLESS OF THEIR SIZE, RACE, OR GENDER. I DON'T FEEL A NEED TO SPECIFY MY SIZE WHEN TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT MY JOB. I THINK THE TERM "PLUS SIZE" HAS A NEGATIVE CONNOTATION.”

One problem with labels is that they often fail to meet their mark, she notes. For instance, she reports that when she has described herself as a ‘plus size’ model in the past, women have balked at the choice of words, saying they would never have considered her ‘plus sized’.

Marquita, who has worked with Ford Models in Los Angeles and IMG Models in New York and Milan, admits that she was always the biggest girl in class. She was always complimented on her face and told she was pretty, wishing they would not feel the need to specify which parts of her were worthy of praise. “All I wanted was to feel beautiful,” she says.

After a casting call in which she was told by many agencies that she would need to lose weight to make a living in the industry, she found a select few who wanted her just as she was. All it took was a photo shoot and she was signed up within an hour by the first agency that saw her fire on camera.

She is lucky to have been born in 1990, and to have broken into a much more accepting fashion world. “We’ve been manipulated by the media and fashion industry into believing there is only one body type: super skinny… yet the majority of people will never be as thin as they have been manipulated into thinking they need to be.”

Marquita prefers to stop talking about size, and to talk instead about health. In the end, plus size or size zero stops becoming relevant when health and fitness became the core aim.

As for Marquita, she hopes to continue working for high-end designers such as Marc Jacobs or Prada. Thus far, she has had a taste for the catwalk, but she wants even more. She also dreams of a more diverse fashion industry, incorporating different ethnicities and celebrating the beauty of difference; an industry where being who you are, is good enough. e

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Quite simple! We have an office in Fuengirola and you are always very welcome to drop by. Thank you for reading this after all – you have just experienced the power of simplicity :-) Find out more at energynordic.com

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

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SYZYGY Homes brings together a series of factors that produce a unique living environment on the Costa del Sol. An enviable location, exclusive modern Mediterranean design and the finest materials coincide to make SYZYGY Homes the ideal lifestyle choice, in the New Golden Mile.

Discover more about this new living experience at SYZYGYbyFm.com

p THE FOCUS property

THE HILLS A NEW VILLA CONCEPT Surrounded by beautiful countryside within the La Quinta estate, The Hills is a select gated community of 12 superbly styled villas that takes modern Marbella luxury to another level. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SOLVILLA

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n a market where luxury properties featuring modern styling and amenities have become the new norm it isn’t easy to stand out, but with The Hills, Solvilla aims to break the mould and allow the concept of the gated villa community to attain new standards of quality and refinement. Since its founding at the heart of the financial

crisis, Solvilla has become known as a specialist in luxurious contemporary properties, above all for villas. Its projects have received critical acclaim and achieved commercial success for their locations, build quality, facilities, styling and overall lifestyle offering, often being eagerly snapped up by an international clientele led by Scandinavian buyers.

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SETTING It is upon this background and expertise that Solvilla was building when it set out to create a luxury gated villa community with a difference. “The first step was finding the right kind of location,” says Stacy Welch, who has been involved with the project from the drawing board stages. “We wanted to create an exclusive hill club environment with secure gated entrance and lots of space – close to Marbella and all amenities but surrounded by wonderful nature and fantastic sea views.” Finding suitable land for development in Marbella is not an easy task in itself, but when accompanied by the exhaustive list of requirements mentioned above it becomes quite a mission.

The project really began to take shape when the Solvilla team found just the kind of spot they had been looking for. Situated in the foothills of La Quinta, the private community occupies over 62,000m2 of gently sloping hillside land with commanding, unobstructed views down the coastal plain of Marbella to the Mediterranean. On clear days your panorama stretches from the hills and shoreline all the way to Gibraltar, where the Mediterranean and Atlantic as well as two continents meet. “It’s a spectacular setting, just what we had in our mind’s eye – a beautiful natural location just minutes away from everything but private, secure and endowed with inspiring views.”

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MODERN COUNTRY REFINEMENT The La Quinta country club lays right on the doorstep of The Hills, offering the facilities of a renowned golf course and clubhouse, a five-star spa resort hotel with fine dining options and the exclusivity of an established residential area situated at the point where Nueva Andalucía and the foothills of the Serranía de Ronda meet. “What we’re creating here is a luxury gated villa community, but one that raises the standard in terms of design, quality and overall refinement,” says Stacy. “The Hills is designed to be the pinnacle of villa living in Marbella, so we’ve put all our experience, inspiration and creativity into villas that offer the very best for a select, discerning clientele.”

In essence, Solvilla set out to match the best international standards within a privileged Marbella location and its inimitable climate and lifestyle. “The people buying a home at The Hills have an international profile and are used to the very highest levels of quality and service to be found around the world. To attract their attention takes something that stands out on an international level, and that is what The Hills does.” Indeed, an impressive amount of detail and attention has gone into making this an outstanding offering that goes beyond mere luxury modern villas. For one thing, the architectural styling is intended to be timeless in its refinement and appeal.

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INDIVIDUALISED LUXURY The Hills is a select gated community of just 12 villas, due for completion spring/summer 2020, with prices starting from €2.5M. Set on plots that offer space, privacy and embracing greenery, each home has also been positioned to provide unimpeded panoramic views. “The architects have accommodated this skilfully, as well as creating a series of personalised designs that allow buyers to choose from different sizes, distributions, finishing, detailing and positions from which to enjoy their own unique perspective of the magnificent views. “There are different designs, layouts and sizes, but in essence each villa is unique thanks to a very high degree of personal detailing, which allows our buyers to truly customise their home and make it a bespoke villa.”

Though spacious, the villas have been designed in such a way as to make every space welcoming and intimate.

The finest materials are employed in the exterior dressing

of the villas, where stone and wood detailing add further to timeless architectural styling that breaks down volumes to create a home, which is at once imposing and tasteful.

Elegant private driveways extend to a forecourt with access to the garages and also the entrance, where a grand hallway leads out onto living and dining areas, stylish kitchens designed to cater for large parties, and a choice of terraced areas that offer fantastic sea views from amid green Zen zones and modern water features.

“Everything, from the cascading water features and living areas to the bedroom suites and private entertainment and relaxing areas of the home, is designed with superlative quality, style, comfort and sophistication in mind. With The Hills, we aim to offer classic Marbella villa living, but raised to a new and exciting level that meets the best anywhere in the world.” i www.solvillacollection.com

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d the style

INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART DESIGN GARDENS FASHION

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His and Hers Design

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Cool Fireplaces

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Fashion by Ulises Mérida

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Coloured Diamonds

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIS AND HERS DESIGN? DISCOVER THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION WHILE SNUGGLING IN FRONT OF A DESIGNER FIREPLACE WITH YOUR SOULMATE AND CONTEMPLATING THE PERFECT VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT: A COLOURED DIAMOND!

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d THE STYLE decor Classic feminine touches in a bedroom

You’re probably familiar with the concept, but ‘his and hers’ areas go far beyond public restrooms and related areas that are gender-specific and sometimes even no-go zones for the opposite sex. Go with classic examples such as girly dressing rooms or blokey dens, or better still, mix things up a little and make your home really interesting. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

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HIS& HERS Design F

or those with the means and space it is often recommendable to create specific areas of interest in a home that stand apart from the main, ‘communal’ parts such as a lounge, kitchen, terrace or formal dining room.

They can be shared areas, such as a family or TV room, a home cinema or a courtyard, or more specific to the tastes and preferences of a particular age group – as in children’s play areas, games rooms, basketball courts or even playgrounds. A very common theme in this regard is the gender-based division of a home into his and hers domains that operate almost like separate wings flanking the main shared areas. They provide the lady and the gent of the house a chance to claim a specific domain for themselves in which they can enjoy peace, space, truly be themselves and pursue those interests most typically associated with them, their friends and peers.

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A bathroom can be a place of elegance and relaxing indulgence The dressing room – a classic woman’s domain

ROOMS WITH A GENDER The very idea of splitting a home along these lines can seem a little outdated unless you approach it with a sense of fun and practicality. If done properly, his and hers areas are not designed to put anyone in their place or tuck them out of the way, but to provide a cohabitating couple with a little private space either just for themselves or in which they can entertain those of like mind.

It is an area in which to spend time, not live, for if you find yourself not enjoying the main shared spaces of the home and retreat into your own domain too much, you should slowly begin to question the relationship.

Masculine style in a bathroom A modern ‘His’ bathroom with classic touches

DRESSING AND BATHING That aside, the most practical application of his and hers areas in a house, albeit a sizeable one, is the division of the dressing areas and even the master suite bathroom.

It is here that the woman tends to gain priority, for these are seen as essentially feminine spaces in which women spend more time and to which they attach more importance than a man. Times are changing, however, and while a beautiful dressing room where you can keep your clothes in style and also dress in comfort remains relatively more important for a woman, many a man would love to keep his wardrobe in a similarly organised and impressive manner.

Given the different nature of men’s and women’s clothing, the style and configuration of the two dressing areas will be different, and very often they are arranged in almost symmetrical ‘wings’, though seldom in a straight 50/50 proportion. Ladies like lighter colours and elegant soft furnishings in their dressing rooms, while men are starting to put their mark on this kind of area by using slightly darker, heavier tones and materials, often with a somewhat classical touch that makes them feel like a dashing gentleman of old. Our advice here is that, being a very personal and sensory space, neither man nor woman should hold back in making this a room that expresses their style and makes them feel comfortable.

When splitting a bathroom into Yin and Yang zones the first part that comes to mind is the toilet area itself. How practical and convenient for both if they can be discreetly tucked away in opposite sides of the room for optimal privacy. Though it is not a possibility for all, keeping the functional part of the bathroom apart in this way does much to maintain a certain mystique in a marriage, while separate wash basins are almost as beneficial for a happy union. Here again, women tend to have more in the way of cosmetics, skin creams and associated personal items, and therefore might require more space as well as a special area for the application of make-up.

If you take things a step further, as many in the larger Marbella villas do, and create two separate his and her bathrooms, you will probably find that he goes for black or deep brown marble, or perhaps minimalist functionality, while she opts for lighter or more colourful marble or more ornate designs, and luxuriant elements (such as freestanding bathtubs). This can be a mistake, for having separate baths and showers reduces the opportunity for intimacy and the romance of a shared bubble bath, the gesture of running a bath for your partner or even the introduction of delightful unisex designs such as Zen-inspired bathroom décor.

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An entertainment room with a masculine touch

RELAXING AND PLAYING It should be clear by now that a harmonious home provides special interest areas in which children, wives and husbands can retreat and indulge their interests, but that it is even more vital that these do not become a substitute for the shared common core of the home – the kitchen, living room, dining room and terrace with pool area, above all, and any space or living environment in which the household likes to spend time together.

Though traditionally the lady of the house had more of a hand in the decoration of the home in general, these days such clearly defined roles are becoming far less rigid and more dependent on the personal preferences of the individuals involved.

A lot of men are very interested in design now, and many far more so than their wives or girlfriends. Generally, though, the main shared part of the home should reflect all its inhabitants and be a place where they feel comfortable and at home. The décor of these areas – which are also the main reception spaces where you receive guests and entertain – therefore tends to be a little more mainstream, though if you want to let go and be eccentrically idiosyncratic, why not? You may shock your guests or delight them, but if a quirky lounge or bright kitchen makes you happy, go for it.

The study – a classic man’s domain

MIXING STYLES The more private parts of a home generally tend to lend themselves more to personalised styling, and while it can this doesn’t always include the bedrooms. For this reason, your best chance to go a little crazy is in more specific areas such as a home cinema, bar, games room, studio, exercising or yoga area, or a study/library. Traditionally, this is gender territory, with studies, libraries and wine cellars the domain of classic gentlemen – or games rooms or home cinemas their contemporary equivalent – and conservatories, arty studios and yoga rooms their female counterpart. But then again, not so long ago the kitchen was regarded as the woman’s workshop where today the cooking enthusiast of the family can be either the husband or the wife, or both, so shy away from stereotypes if they don’t apply to you.

Few Marbella homes are kitted out with actual garage-style workshops, so many of the men in these parts may want to use ‘their’ part of the home for the creation of a den dedicated to their interests – be it anything from cars and cinema to technology, art, literature or just drinking with friends. A more formal, elaborate den is of course a study or library, and a more superfluous one could become a games room, but unless particularly

refined or replete with modern classic decorative elements, the latter should above all be a space for all the family, including the kids. A bar in your home can similarly be a pretty cool spot in which to entertain and socialise with friends as a couple, so the best his and hers rooms are those that offer a chance to relax, get away from the world a little and/ or focus on a hobby or interest.

Women have traditionally sought this in artist style studios, reading rooms or conservatories, or spaces made for dancing, exercising or meditating.

If you follow the traditional path, ‘his’ parts of the house will be covered in dark wood and heavy leather, while ‘hers’ are flowery, bright and ornate.

Of course it doesn’t have to be like that – without making the home’s décor too schizophrenic you should try to shake it up a bit and be inspired by some of the greatest examples of eclectic home design, and if you can add a feminine touch to a study, make a games room into a cosy pop art gallery or veer away from too much pink and glitz in the areas chosen by her, then so much the better.

Above all, his and hers domains should add to the decorative style, functionality and fun of the place you call home. e

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GYROFOCUS

SNOW WHITE

ERGOFOCUS

d THE STYLE decor

The play of light and shadow, reflected onto an appropriate surface, transforms each fireplace into a luminous sculpture that fits in with the lightfilled beauty of the Mediterranean. The flames, meanwhile, add a touch of warmth and enchantment that contrast beautifully with the pristine white structures. The designs are impressive looking yet surprisingly sturdy and easy to clean – to effect this, a wet cloth will do the trick. If you are interested in seeing what a Focus fireplace would look like in your home, download the Focus app (available on Google Play and App Store), which projects each design onto your living space via augmented reality.

BATHYSCAFOCUS

Designer fireplace firm, Focus (launched by French sculptor, Dominique Imbert), recently launched a magnificent addition to any home decorated in a modern or minimalist style: Focus White, which comes in four different designs: Gyrofocus, Bathyscafocus, Ergofocus, and Domofocus.

DOMOFOCUS

FIREPLACES b y Focus

i www.focus-chimeneas.es

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Finca El Olivar

• 39.000 m2 • fruit groves and formal garden • 3 horse stables • well built house on two levels • 4 bedrooms en-suite • guest WC • big living room with modern fireplace • open plan kitchen • office • 4 terraces • larder and laundry rooms • underfloor heating • saltwater pool Lovely views to Gibraltar, the Mediterranean and North Africa!

Gaucin 2 km, Coast 15 km, Sotogrande 25 km!

Price €1.250.000

Contact Margit: 658 213 959 email: urmagro@yahoo.de, Josè: 666 389 909 or Margarita + 1 404-302-7247 email margaritaftaylor@hotmail.com

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d THE STYLE fashion

RED. WHITE. BLUE. THE PASSION OF ULISES MÉRIDA

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Forget about flowers and butterflies; ‘it’ girls will be decked out in monochrome ensembles this season, and the colours of liberty – red, white and blue, will hold sway. Take your inspiration from this chic new Spring/Summer 2018 collection

by Toledo-born designer, Ulises Mérida. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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Midnight Madness ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2018 / 83

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White Finale

i www.ulisesmerida.com

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Did you know that coloured diamonds represent only 0.1% of all diamonds in the world?

They are caused by an accident of nature, and are very hard to come by.

Boucheron, the ďŹ rst ever jeweller at the Place Vendome, presents these coloured diamonds in stunning arrangements that will make a perfect addition to the collection of women after something different.

IN A BLUE MOOD

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

COLOURED DIAMONDS n o r e h c u o B by i www.boucheron.com

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n the spa

PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA SCIENCE TREATMENTS HEALTH

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Spirituality and Health

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Health News

100 Lens Replacement Surgery at Sol Eyes

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF HEALING WITH RITUALS, READ UP ON THE LINK BETWEEN SPIRITUALITY AND HEALTH, AND ENSURE YOUR VISION IS CRYSTAL CLEAR WITH LENS REPLACEMENT SURGERY AT SOL EYES.

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unveil the beauty that lies beneath

Dr. Kaye O. Kai / Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon / Director of Ocean Clinic

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

n THE SPA beauty

The scents of uplifting bergamot, relaxing lavender and sensual sandalwood are exciting our senses in popular commercial centres across the globe. The brand is Rituals and its aim is to bring the Western world the healing rituals, scents, and practices of the Far East and other exotic locations. Marisa Cutillas enlightens readers on this top-selling brand.

When Everyday Routines Become Meaningful Moments

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f, in the past, the modern businessman or woman couldn’t dream of having a hammam treatment without spending a large percentage of their salary at a local spa, these days, they can head straight to Rituals to obtain their very own Hammam set, complete with a natural shower gel, body mud and olive-based soap infused with healing rosemary and eucalyptus. Never before has our bathroom smelt or felt quite so much like a five-star spa, and thankfully, the experience comes at an affordable price for all.

Rituals was founded by Raymond Cloosterman. Touted as “the Dutch version of James Bond” by Vanity Fair, he wears shirts with inspirational messages embroidered on his cuffs, such as ‘He who is brave is free’ (Seneca).

Cloosterman started his company in 1999, after working for many years at Unilever. While on a two-month break between jobs, he decided to go on a journey of

exploration, meeting new people, finding places that inspired him, and letting himself “be surprised like a small child again.”

He chanced upon the idea of opening a prestige brand, “comparable in quality to Estée Lauder or Chanel,” but at more accessible prices. Cloosterman noted that many people make big sacrifices for luxury products, but that there was also a demand for ‘small luxuries’ that transport us to countries that many only dream of visiting. His vision has met with huge success and today, his stores are present all over Europe, as well as in countries as far afield as Brazil and Turkey.

Travel is an important part of Cloosterman’s job, since his brand is based on ancient eastern rituals. In addition to experiencing the joy of a Himalayan salt scrub, poultice massage or aromatherapy treatment, Cloosterman’s team research deeply into the essential aims of each treatment,

ingredients used, and order of application. Staying true to the Eastern philosophies that inspire these beautifying and relaxing treatments, is vital.

It is amazing to think how such a basic idea – turning everyday routine into a pleasurable ritual – has made its mark on so many of us. What if a shaving balm could do more than moisturise skin, or a bath gel could soothe or uplift us, instead of simply cleansing? Why not pamper ourselves every day, adding components of wellness, health, and happiness, to ‘tasks’ such as cleansing and exfoliating the face and body, having a bath, or toning skin?

If you’ve passed by a Rituals store before, then you know how its interiors seemingly pull you in.

Exotic scents, wooden furniture, and the sensation of stepping into a small piece of the Orient, are unique indeed for customers accustomed to fluorescent lighting, bright clashing colours

and a sense of being rushed into the future. Rituals wishes to transport us to the ancient past, where values such as mindfulness, holistic health, and relaxation hold sway.

Cloosterman has named two rituals as his favourites. One is The Ritual of Laughing Buddha, infused with citric scents and aimed at achieving a lofty ideal indeed: happiness. Included in the pack is a shower foam, shower oil, body scrub, and body cream.

His other fave is The Ritual Hammam – arguably one of the brand’s top sellers. It includes a purifying body mud, foaming shower gel, body cream, black soap, and sea salt scrub. As any fervent spa goer will attest, not a single ingredient to this millenary ritual has been forgotten, which is great news for those who prefer to enjoy this special ritual in the privacy of their own home. i www.rituals.com

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n THE SPA beauty

THE BEST

FACIAL SCRUBS

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in t he Business Most beauty buffs feel pretty proud of sticking to a daily routine, yet cleansing, toning and moisturing are a bare minimum when it comes to maintaining beautiful skin. Weekly exfoliation is key to smooth-as-silk skin, since by eliminating dead cells, we are also able to prevent acne, unclog pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines. These are our favourite scrubs for 2018.

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COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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1 – ORIGINS NEVER A DULL MOMENT SKINBRIGHTENING FACE POLISHER WITH FRUIT EXTRACTS: Finely ground apricot and mango seeds and potent papaya extract combine to dissolve bleak looking skin cells and reveal your skin’s true radiance.

2 – MURAD AHA/BHA EXFOLIATING CLEANSER: This gorgeous if somewhat pricey purchase cleanses and exfoliates at once, thanks to a combination of three active agents: salicylic acid, lactic acid, and glycolic acid. It polishes away dryness, debris and rough skin cells, while restoring plumpness and elasticity.

3 – CLINIQUE EXFOLIATING SCRUB: A creamy exfoliant that refines expression lines, and deflates and refreshes skin. A great all-rounder that is also delightfully affordable.

4 – BOBBI BROWN BUFFING GRAINS FOR FACE: Mix these luxurious grains with any cleanser you have at home, or with water, to gently slough off dead skin cells. Formulated with adzuki bean powder, it helps remove rough patches and encourages cell renewal.

5 – CLEAN & CLEAR MORNING BURST SKIN BRIGHTENING FACIAL SCRUB: Light, affordable and effective, this oil-free scrub is ideal for younger skins which are blighted with large pores or acne.

6 – DERMALOGICA DAILY MICROFOLIANT: This scrub is so gentle it can be used daily. Think of it as the product you need when your pores have been exposed to toxins all day and require a really deep cleanse.

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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

Vitamin Therapy at

CIRUMED CLINIC Cirumed Clinic is perhaps best known for its ‘bikini body’ surgical procedures and nonsurgical treatments such as CoolSculpting and laser treatments, yet it is also a leading centre for treatments focussing on health and wellbeing. Vitamin Therapy, for instance, is a buzzword in leading medical centres across the globe, since it enables doctors to discover and address any nutritional/vitamin-related insufficiencies patients may have.

ABOUT DR. HALINA ROMA LATASIEWICZ At Cirumed, Vitamin Therapy is imparted by Dr. Halina Roma Latasiewicz, a highly experienced specialist in Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy who worked for almost 20 years as a consultant in this field at the Silesian Centre for Heart Diseases in Poland (a leading hospital for heart and lung transplants).

Since 1992, Dr. Latasiewicz has specialised in parenteral nutrition (the feeding of patients intravenously, bypassing the usual processes of eating when this is not possible). From 2006, she has been working in Spain as an anesthesiologist and intensive care consultant.

Dr. Latasiewicz has additionally brought a crucial treatment to patients wishing to enjoy optimal health: intravenous provision of vitamins, amino acids, macro and micro elements, in personalised infusions to promote better health.

WHAT IS IV THERAPY? Many of us take vitamin supplements to back up our healthy eating, yet these are not absorbed to the same extent when taken orally, as when administered through injections/ IV therapy.

At Cirumed, Dr. Latasiewicz first asks patients to obtain a blood test, so as to identify any

insufficiencies in macronutrients or micronutrients that they may have. “If someone is feeling fatigued, they would like to nip a strong cold in the bud, or they wish to prevent flus in winter, the first thing I do is to see how their immune system might be letting them down. I then prepare a specific homeopathic serum which is adapted to their needs.

WHY IS IV THERAPY SO SUCCESSFUL? Dr. Latasiewicz notes that customised serums are highly effective because “as they enter the bloodstream, results are obtained faster. This treatment can also be combined with other, aesthetic treatments.”

CURRENTLY, IV THERAPY IS USED FOR:

Z FACIAL AND BODY REJUVENATION Z LIFTING Z REDUCTION OF VOLUME IN LOCALISED AREAS (IMPARTING A SIGNIFICANT DRAINAGE EFFECT) Z FLUID RETENTION Z SOFT AND HARD CELLULITE Z SKIN HYDRATION AND IMPROVED VITALITY Z ANTI-AGEING Z ANTIOXIDATION Z GREATER ENERGY AND VITALITY Z HAIR STRENGTHENING

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HOW OFTEN IS IV THERAPY NECESSARY FOR OPTIMAL EFFECTS? This therapy is usually administered every 15 days, but according to Dr. Latasiewicz, “Some people come weekly, and others leave longer gaps because of travel, etc. In this case, we give a stronger dose during their visit.”

The frequency of recommended visits, she notes, “depends on the type of treatment and the patient’s goals.”

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF VITAMIN ‘COCKTAILS’?

Depending on your condition, Dr. Latasiewicz will recommend a different infusion.

“One popular infusion, called the Myers cocktail, offers an excellent

balance of vitamins and minerals to improve general health and wellbeing. It is highly recommended to prevent illness and maintain balance in the body.”

BOOSTING THE IMMUNITY Containing high doses of Vitamin C, lysine and zinc, this concoction helps stimulate your immune system so you can battle disease and shorten the length of many common infections and conditions.

BEAUTIFYING SKIN For the skin, an optimal blend of Vitamin C, Biotin and CoQ10 will bestow a more youthful appearance and stimulate the rejuvenation of skin cells.

ADDITIONAL BLENDS There are just about as many infusions as your particular condition requires. For instance, if you’ve been out partying and feel tired and sluggish the next day, the right blend of constituents can rapidly rehydrate you with vitamins and minerals, to fight nausea and inflammation.

Alcaline infusions, meanwhile, are specifically targeted at preventing many common 21st century illnesses, including cancer, diabetes and osteoporosis.

When you feel like you are more tired than usual, a concoction comprising Vitamins B12, B5 and B6 can uplift you and keep adrenal exhaustion at bay.

CAN CHILDREN HAVE THIS TREATMENT? One of the first questions we asked Dr. Latasiewicz was whether or not children could avail of IV therapy.

After all, many of us have kids who are recommended a yearly flu jab and some may wonder if there are more natural alternatives.

Dr. Latasiewicz assures me that vitamin boosts can do plenty to keep flus and colds at bay for children too, and are a great solution for those who wish to avoid optional vaccines.

g AT CIRUMED CLINIC. Edif. Panorama, Planta Baja, Local 2.

CN340, km 184, Marbella.

Tel: 952 775 346. www.cirumed.es

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n THE SPA health

In Health News this month, you may have noticed that spirituality (in particular taking part in a spiritual/religious organisation) is linked to greater happiness and meaning of life. Scientists believe that organised spirituality has positive effects on our health because it provides an opportunity for social interaction, with other ‘believers’ providing an important source of support and companionship in tough times. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

CARL JUNG

and the Quest for Spirituality and Happiness

F

or Carl Jung, however, spirituality per se (without the need to form part of an organised belief system) is necessary to human mental health and wellbeing. Over several chapters in his Collected Works, Jung argued that modern human beings were facing a ‘spiritual problem’ which led to unhappiness, anxiety, and worry. It was impossible to feel ‘whole’, he noted, when ignoring such an essential part of life.

In particular, Jung singled out the effect of the industrial revolution (he would undoubtedly have mentioned globalisation if he were alive today) on self-perception. As cities rose, human beings began to feel insignificant, inadequate, and hopeless… thus the advent of the most prevalent modern mental conditions, including depression and anxiety. Much of the problem lay with massification, an increase in uniformity, and a corresponding decrease in the importance of the individual.

Facing the existential problems of life, for Jung, was unbearable without the crutch of spirituality.

To compensate for the sense of insignificance, he said, our lust for power has grown, often to dangerous extents. It leads human beings to believe in mass movements which

seemingly have the significance they lack. Unfortunately, the result is a further loss of importance: “If the individual, overwhelmed by the sense of his own puniness and impotence, should feel that his life has lost its meaning… then he is already on the road to State slavery and, without knowing or wanting it, has become its proselyte.”

Jung noted that when we turn to the government for a definition of moral standards, we lose our own ability to decide what is right and wrong; how we should live our lives. He held that the world’s most powerful tyrants arose precisely because of the subjugation of our own ethics and morality, and the blind acceptance of those of the State.

Jung believed that our psyche was divided into various levels of awareness: conscious awareness, unconscious awareness, and collective unconscious. The latter was the deepest level of our psyche; it comprises images, feelings, and behaviours which are common to all human beings. In order to access it, we need to spend more time in nature, which reveals symbols of the collective unconscious that unite us to the rest of humanity.

When we encounter a beautiful

sea, snow-capped mountain, or lush forest, we become more aware of the greater life force that runs through every sentient being. We become more inspired to delve into our rich inner world, to tap into culture, creativity, art… and rediscover values which have become lost beneath the weight of ‘the masses’.

Jung was not alone in his belief in the relationship between nature and spirituality. The Australian Aborigines, for instance, accept that the cosmos began with the ‘dreamtime’: the time before the world as we know it took shape. For them, dreamtime heroes, or creation ancestors (who are part human and part animal) emerged from their hidden worlds and created the world we know today. These heroes are still hidden in the sea and the land and their majesty can be appreciated in sacred landscapes such as Uluru, the imposing, scarlet-hued rock formation that is arguably Australia’s most famous landmark.

The Native Americans, meanwhile, believe that all nature is alive and with spirit – including plants and animals. Nature is something we live within and are part of; there is no separation between chaotic nature and rational man.

Nature is the embodiment of spiritual

reality, and its deep spirituality demands reverence, respect, and humility.

Meanwhile, the Shinto religion, which existed before Buddhism, espoused that anything which was extraordinary possessed a superior power. These included rivers, the moon, waterfalls, and mountains.

Although every single thing in the world contains ‘a spiritual essence’, for the Shintoists, it was present above all in special places such as shrines and natural landscapes.

Regardless of our belief/ lack thereof in the importance of spirituality, it is fascinating to read study after study of the important ways that being in nature can affect our health. Practices such as shinrinyoku (‘forest bathing’) have become an important stress relieving therapy in many therapeutic settings, since time spent in nature boosts mood and energy, and measurably lowers the stress hormones which, when present for sustained periods, cause anxiety and depression.

Spirituality does not have to be about joining a group of worship.

It can simply involve embracing mindfulness in the arms of Mother Nature, and opening our mind and senses to sights of beauty that are truly worthy of wonder. e

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WANT TO BE HAPPIER?

WORK ON YOUR SPIRITUALITY! A fascinating study carried out by researchers at the London School of Economics has found that participating in a spiritual/religious organisation is one of the few social activities that foster sustained happiness – a feat which cannot be achieved by volunteering for charity, furthering your education, or forming part of a political group.

Researchers believe the magic of spirituality leans on two main pillars: the sense of support from others who have the same beliefs, and the calmness that spiritualism can bring. To hone your spirituality, you don’t need to follow a particular religious tenet. Just work on enriching your inner world by spending more time in the great outdoors, taking up activities such as meditation (whose aim is to instil greater mindfulness), and trying to be more self-compassionate – accept and love yourself as you are, and be as kind to yourself as you are to friends and family.

WHOLE FOODS DIET MAY

PREVENT COLON CANCER To play it safe when it comes to colon health, make sure your diet includes a wide variety of colourful fruits and vegetables; recent research has shown that these foods can help stave off cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.

In one study carried out by researchers at Penn State University, it was found that consuming macronutrients such as protein as well as micronutrients and phytonutrients (including flavonoids and vitamins) can prevent the spread and growth of cancer cells. Colon cancer is a leading cause of death in most of the Western world, so cutting our meat intake and upping our consumption of whole food produce, only makes sense.

HEART DISEASE LINKED TO PROBLEMS WALKING,

FIRST BRAIN TRAINING EXERCISE POSITIVELY LINKED TO DEMENTIA IDENTIFIED

The American Geriatrics Society has published interesting findings of research, which shows that having a slower walking speed can help predict heart disease, hospitalisation, and death. To reduce the likelihood of ill health, they warn, it is vital to reduce risk factors linked to having a slower walking speed – including smoking, diabetes, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity. By making better lifestyle choices, adults aged below 78 can maintain their physical function, keep heart disease at bay, and increase their flexibility and speed – all important factors when it comes to growing old with vitality.

‘Speed of processing’ (SOP) is the name of a revolutionary way to stop dementia from developing, according to a study recently published by scientists from Indiana University. SOP is a brain training programme that has been found to benefit people for over a decade after regular participation. In the study, training for just 10 hours, was found to produce dramatically better results than typical programmes used to enhance cognition and memory. Lead author, Frederick W. Unverzagt, PhD, noted: “We would consider this a relatively small dose of training, a low intensity intervention. The persistence – the durability of the effect was impressive.” SOP is as yet unavailable to the general public, but watch this space for further updates.

FINDS NEW STUDY

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PERFECT VISION FOR A LIFETIME WITH LENS REPLACEMENT SURGERY

at Sol Eyes

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

I

t is amazing to think that problems which, in the past, used to have no other solution than glasses (for instance, presbyopia) can now be treated definitively through surgery, putting an end to the use of glasses and preventing cataracts for the rest of our lives. The surgery involved is called ‘lens replacement’, currently with one of the highest success rates of all surgical procedures.

It takes only five to 10 minutes, requires only anesthetic eye drops, and has a short downtime.

Technology has certainly made problems like astigmatism, nearand far-sightedness, and presbyopia (i.e. needing glasses for reading) issues which are simple and quick to cure.

Sol Eyes, with Clinics in Fuengirola and Puerto Banús, boasts the very latest technology (including LASIK and SMILE laser equipment) to perform these operations; most importantly, it has a team of highly experienced surgeons. Clinic founders, Drs. Petri and Erja Oksman, have over 30 years’ experience in the field of ophthalmological medicine in their native Finland. Sol Eyes provide every service you could possibly associate with eyesight, and more

– including eye checks, dry eyes treatment, and eye surgery.

They are, however, perhaps best known for the latter. Some of the most popular surgeries include: Z PRESBYOPIA CORRECTION SURGERY WITH IOL (LENS EXCHANGE SURGERY): As we age, our lens become less ‘elastic’ and we can have problems reading books or working on the computer. IOL surgery involves removing our stiff lens and replacing it with a multifocal lens, so we can see perfectly well from near and far.

In most cases, glasses are no longer required after this intervention.

After the operation, it is impossible to develop cataracts; they are effectively removed ‘in advance’.

Z CATARACT SURGERY: This type of surgery also involves removing the ‘cloudy’ lens of an affected eye, and replacing it with an artificial lens, which can be multifocal if required.

Patients receiving this surgery often report a big lift in mood, since being able to see clearly and appreciate vivid colour is priceless.

No subsequent operations or lens changes are required, as is the case with surgery for presbyopia.

Z MACULAR DEGENERATION: Macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe, irreversible vision loss in

people aged 60 and over. It occurs when the small central portion of the retina, known as the macula, deteriorates. There are two types of macular degeneration: the dry form (which can, in some cases, cause ‘blind spots’ in the centre of vision) and the wet form (in which abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula). This can be treated with Eylea injections, or your doctor may recommend low vision aids. One cutting edge surgical procedure involves the insertion of a telescopic lens in one eye, which works similarly to a magnifying lens, thus enhancing the ability to read.

LASER TREATMENT FOR REFRACTIVE ERRORS

In case you were wondering how such impactful surgery can have little to no downtime, the answer, is laser. Today, the leading techniques for the correction of refractive errors (including myopia (nearsigtedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism, are corrected using LASIK and SMILE laser surgery (which is the least invasive of these techniques).

Presbyopia can be corrected with laser through the so-called monovision technique. Currently, results from laser surgery are optimal, and the prevalence of risks and complications is close to negligible.

CHANGES AT SOL EYES Sol Eyes is proud to welcome highly experienced members to its team,

including Dr. Jonathan Strauch (who hails from the US and Sweden and is a specialist in ophthalmology and an ophthalmic surgeon who speaks English, Swedish and Nowegian), Dr. Pedro Naranjo Bonilla from Spain (also specialist in ophthalmology and an ophthalmic surgeon) and Dr. Hanna Raitio (a consultant and aesthetic dermatologist with almost three decades of experience).

Dr. Raitio will be providing a host of services, including Botox and facial peelings, turning back the hands of time through tried-andtested and cutting-edge treatments alike.

Sol Eyes is also pleased to announce that its Fuengirola Clinic recently moved to spacious new premises, with more treatment rooms for surgery and all other services pertinent to vision.

MAKE 2018 A YEAR FOR CHANGE

If you are tired of the weight and aesthetics of glasses, there is no need to continue letting inertia be your guide. In just 10 minutes, your life could be changed forever, thanks to groundbreaking technology and the Sol Eyes team’s passion for restoring the gift of vision to every single patient. g FUENGIROLA: Avda. Alcalde Clemente Diaz Ruiz 3 corner C/Valencia, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 470 073.

MARBELLA: Avda. Rotary Internacional 34, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 635 719. www.soleyes.es

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z z THE PRO enterprise

the pro

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

THE TOUCH BOUTIQUE HOTEL OPENS IN PUERTO BANÚS The President of CasaClub in Puerto Banús, Álvaro Garrido and the President of Avantum Group, Martin Nielsen, officially launched The Touch, a new boutique hotel aimed at high-end tourists. The hotel boasts 11 rooms and elegant suites, and promises a high level of personalisation; for instance, there will be no receptionists. Instead, each guest will have their own host, who will ensure they have a first rate stay. i www.thetouchbanus.com

FUERTE HOTEL GROUP RECEIVES 23 PRIZES IN 2017 The Fuerte Hotel Group, famed for its scenic installations, commitment to the environment, and top level service, is proud to announce that it closed 2017 with over 23 awards, including TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence, the SICTED Quality Tourism certificate, and the Innovation Prize. On the Costa del Sol, hotels belonging to the group include the Amàre Marbella, the Fuerte Marbella, and the Fuerte Estepona. i www.fuerte-group.com

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URBANIA INTERNATIONAL TO INVEST €250 MILLION IN NEW DEVELOPMENT IN FUENGIROLA Urbania International recently presented the first phase of the Higuerón West 217 development, which will comprise luxury apartments in the Higuerón Capellanía zone of Fuengirola, adjacent to the DoubleTree by Hilton Resort and Spa Reserva del Higuerón. The complex has a strong sustainability/innovation focus, and will be surrounded by 100,000m2 of greenery. It is also conveniently located, at just three minutes from the train station and 15 minutes from Málaga airport. The launch was attended by important dignitaries, including the Mayor of Fuengirola, Ana Mula Redruello, as well as the founders of Urbania International, Tomás Gasset and Mark Farber. i www.urbaniainternational.com

ABBA REUNION CONCERT IN ESTEPONA If tunes like Dancing Queen, Mama Mia or Waterloo set your heart on fire, don’t miss out on the fun ABBA Reunion Tribute Show, created by the director, choreographer, and producer of the award-winning ABBA MANIA musical (the event will feature the original Frida from the London West End cast). Offered by Big M Promotions, the first concert will take place at the Felipe VI Auditorium in Estepona on February 14 and is just one of many that will be taking place over the following days and subsequent months, including Stars of the West End, Ultimate Gary Moore/Thin Lizzy, and Valli Seasons from the award-winning West End Musical, Jersey Boys. i For dates and tickets,

www.ticketsource.eu/ bigmpromotions.

Further information, www.costadelsoldisco.com

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z THE PRO enterprise

THE ARTS SOCIETY COSTA DEL SOL CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY The Arts Society (formerly NADFAS) in the UK is celebrating its Golden Anniversary in 2018 and the Costa del Sol branch is celebrating its 30th with The ArtFest: a competition initiated by The Arts Society for all affiliated societies worldwide. Ten of the Society’s artist members are participating and society members are voting for a number of works to be forwarded to The Arts Society as photos for an exhibition at their AGM. The Arts Society Costa del Sol will hold an exhibition with 50 works at Atlantis PMR, Centro Comercial Los Olivos, Calahonda from February 2 to March 30. Visitors are welcome to view the works by appointment only. g For further information, contact Teresa on

Tel: 952 933 870/ Teresa@atlatinspmr.com

NEW TECHNOLOGY TO PREVENT STROKE AT QUIRÓNSALUD One in six persons will have a stroke/cerebrovascular accident at some point in their lives. Strokes have a high mortality rate and often cause disability in those who survive them. Quirónsalud in Marbella and Gibraltar would like to stress the importance of testing, especially for high-risk patients (such as people with diabetes and hypertension). Doctors at Quirónsalud are using a revolutionary technique called TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR), which can prevent and treat obstruction of the carotid artery, which causes a third of these incidents. i www.quironsalud.com

JOB OPPORTUNITIES AT CASINO MARBELLA

CUDECA ICE SKATING EVEN IN BENALMÁDENA

If you’re looking for a new job, you might be interested in enrolling for the new croupier course offered by Casino Marbella. Graduates who obtain the official certificate, will be offered employment by CIRSA for the summer. The four-month intensive course will teach you the theory and practical aspects of poker and during peak season you will work at various prestigious tournaments, including SuperStack, the Spanish Poker Championship, or the Confederate League of Poker. i If interested, send your CV (with photo included) to rrhhcasinomarbella@cirsa-com

Cancer care hospice, Cudeca, recently held an ice skating event at the Benalmádena Ice Club – a fun day of solidarity which raised funds to cover the costs of special care for over 1,300 people with cancer and other advanced, incurable illnesses, and to offer help to families in the province of Málaga. The event was just one of many that Cudeca hosts throughout the year to raise funds, so check out their website to discover new events in your area. i www.cudeca.org

NEW CAMPUS FOR THE AMERICAN COLLEGE IN SPAIN The American College in Spain recently invited members of the press to the launch of their brand new campus, at La Alzambra in Marbella.

The institution offers the only American High School program on the Costa del Sol, completely validated by the United States through the University of Nebraska High School. The event was attended by the Mayor of Marbella, Ángeles Muñoz, and a cocktail was enjoyed afterwards by visitors. i www.americancollegespain.com

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MARBELLA LAUNCHES EUROPEAN CIRCUIT TOURNAMENT OF ATP CHALLENGE Following a six-year hiatus, Marbella will once again be a destination for ATP Tournaments, with the celebration of the Casino Admiral Trophy ATP Challenger from March 24 to March 31 at the Hotel Puente Romano Tennis Club. The presentation of the tournament was attended by Manolo Santana, the Andalusian Tennis Federation, the Director of the tournament Casino Admiral Trophy ATP Challenger and Jorge Manzur, General Director of Puente Romano. The Marbella tournament is the first of the season to be played on clay. Local tennis player, Adrián Menéndez (127th world ranking), expressed his enthusiasm at the event: “Marbella is the city where I was born and it’s a privilege to be part of such a prestigious tournament.” i www.admiralcasinotrophy.com

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z THE PRO enterprise

CHILLOUT SUNDAYS AT ALBERTS PUERTO BANÚS ATTENDS FITUR Puerto Banús, the capital of luxury tourism of the Coast, recently formed part of the Marbella stand at Spain’s largest tourism fair: FITUR. With a warm temperature and an average of 320 sunny days per year, Puerto Banús receives five million visitors annually, mainly from Northern Europe, Russia, the United Kingdom and the Middle East. These tourists are attracted, above all, by the nautical tourism, the unique offer of luxury shopping and the charm of the region, but also by the wide variety of leisure and healthy lifestyle opportunities offered. Since its launch in 1970, the iconic Spanish marina has boasted one of the highest concentrations of luxury brands in the Mediterranean.

Trendy Cabopino restaurant, Alberts, presents Sundays at Alberts, featuring live singing by Virginia Alexandre, finalist in the very first edition of the Spanish version of The Voice (La Voz). The talented chanteusse will be performing every sunday from January 7 to February 18. g To book a table,

Tel: 952 836 886/contact@alberts-cabopino.com

BITCOIN: NEW GENERATION DIGITAL PURSE IN MARBELLA Drumelia Real Estate is the first real estate company in Marbella to sell properties with Bitcoin – a cryptocurrency which has been much in the news lately. It serves to exchange goods and services like a traditional currency, with the exception that is is an electronic currency that has novel features and stands out for its efficiency, security and ease of exchange. Marbella already has three strategic Bitcoin ponts (ATM): The Local (C/ Malvas 13), Estrella de Belén (C/ Quevedo, 5) and Platinum Calls (Centro Cristamar in Marbella). Every day, more stores and shopping malls are incorporating this payment method and we will soon see more sales points at El Corte Inglés, La Cañada, Málaga airport and Vialia train stations, to name a few. i www.drumelia.com

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z THE PRO finance

Letting your home to friends and acquaintances has always been a means of making some extra cash to pay community fees and other charges inherent to owning a holiday home.

WORDS CRISTINA FALKENBERG

H

owever neither all holiday lettings were up to standard nor was income always declared. Decree 28/2016, in force since May 11, 2016, aims at ending this situation by providing simple rules operating as guarantees both for the landlord and the tenant.

The Decree applies to residential lettings in urban environments.

It doesn’t apply if lettings exceed two months per year to the same tenant or if three or more properties are owned in the same building or an adjacent one, regarded as professional letting of tourism apartments and falling under Law 13/2011.

You should be aware the Tax Office browses the web for properties being offered either directly or through a travel agent.

Your starting point is a Responsible Declaration made before the Andalusian Tourism Registry (try http://bit.ly/24arFzd, in Spanish).

You’ll need to provide details on the owner, the person acting as landlord should it be someone else, the cadastral reference number (the 20 digit code on your green IBI tax bill) and the number of inhabitants

HOLIDAY LETTINGS

allowed. This will be stated on your Licencia de Primera Ocupación (called Cédula de Habitabilidad in older properties). Should you not have one, your Town Hall should be able to furnish you with a copy.

If renting the whole house the maximum is 15 guests; if renting rooms, a maximum of six guests are allowed in the house. In any case, not more than four guests may occupy one room.

Once registered, your property will be assigned a number, to be included in all documents and advertising.

Rooms must have windows that can be opened for ventilation, fitted with blinds or curtains. Air conditioning must be available in the living room and bedrooms if the house is rented between May and September (both included).

The property must be sufficiently furnished and equipped with all things necessary including kitchen utensils, bed linen and towels.

Between one rental and the next the house must be cleaned and often an intermediate laundry and cleaning service is provided too.

A first-aid kit must be available.

Also instructions on how to use the appliances must be at hand.

The Decree says nothing about fire extinguishers but it’s a good idea to have one in a clearly marked spot.

Additional information that must be made available is any rules governing functioning of the complex. In this sense you might want to write a clear summary of the most relevant community rules regarding noises and partying, use of common areas like the swimming pool and gardens, or others such as those refering to parking, pets or children.

Finally, tourism information on the area must be available at the apartment too and a working contact number must be made available.

The tenant will furnish the landlord with copies of their ID documents. Its mandatory the Policía Nacional are informed of your tenant’s identities, via their web. If possible, you should also inform your Community, letting your tenant know.

If nothing else is stated, the contract runs from 4 pm on the date of arrival until 12 noon on the day of departure. The tenant must be handed a contract containing all the relevant information and prices shown are ‘all included’ . The landlord may ask for a deposit, issuing a

receipt with the price, the amount paid and any cancellation charges.

If nothing else is agreed, a 30 per cent deposit is payable. If the tenant cancels within 10 days of arrival they lose the deposit; if cancelling with more time they lose half.

If conversely it’s the landlord cancelling the contract, they will have to pay the tenant a penalty of 30 per cent of the price in addition to returning the deposit; if with more than 10 days, they may simply return the deposit.

None of these apply to any of the parties in case of force majeure.

Income is declared annually if you are a resident and on a quarterly basis if non-resident, via a Model 210 presented between the 1st and the 20th of January, April, July and October.

Damages, repairs, cleaning and any expenses related to advertising, marketing and managing the property are tax deductible. Also, for the time the rental lasted, you may deduct the proportionate amount of community fees, utilities, taxes and 3 per cent annual amortisation of the cadastral value of the construction (on your green IBI tax bill). 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

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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

GRAND VERNISSAGE AT THE ART GALLERY JESSE JAY

The Art Gallery Jesse Jay recently held a vernissage, in which local art lovers were able to acquaint themselves with his beautiful figurative works, and paintings by many more international artists. Guests enjoyed a gourmet cocktail while marvelling at the colourful collection. i www.Jessejay-artist.com

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time” – Thomas Merton

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN 110 / FEBRUARY 2018 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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vibe THE PRO z

NEW JAGUAR E-PACE AT C. DE SALAMANCA

The new Jaguar E-Pace, the marque’s first compact SUV, was recently presented

by C. de Salamanca, at a cocktail event attended by selected members of the media. The new car boasts an inimitable blend of design, speed and dynamic driving features, and has a five-star Euro NCAP rating, confirming the vehicle is among the safest on the market. i www.cdesalamanca.com

“Life is a journey, not a destination” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2018 / 111

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h THE LEISURE travel

Hotels for

#VIAJOSOLA Voyagers

Solo female travellers are a trending class and hotels are rushing to accommodate this securityconscious demographic with a flurry of features that go beyond hairdryers and make-up mirrors.

From Richard Branson’s peephole doors to floors where boys aren’t allowed, Belinda Beckett discovers what’s on offer for today’s #Viajosola voyager.

A

new Spanish hashtag erupted across social media last year in a global show of girl power: #Viajosola (‘I travel alone’) was posted by outraged women everywhere after two female backpackers murdered in Ecuador were blamed for their own deaths for travelling in a high-risk country ‘alone’, meaning without a man. #Viajosola has become the mantra of female travellers the world over, defending their right to go it alone. And they’ve been doing just that

in increasing numbers since Julia Roberts’ round-theworld romp to find herself in the 2010 film, Eat, Pray, Love.

‘Women have embraced the wildness and are proving they have the guts to explore the world on their own,’ gushed travel industry website Skift, dubbing 2017 ‘the year of the modern female traveller.’ Meanwhile, the solopreneur boom is adding many more lone women travellers to the mix. But whether on business or holiday, security comes well before scented bath foam on womens’ list of priority hotel services; doubly-so, in the new light of 2018’s post-Weinstein dawn.

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The Duchess treatment is also on offer at Dukes’ Palm Jumeirah oasis

The Bella Donna womens’ floor at Copenhagen’s AC Bella Sky was ruled sexist

TRAILBLAZING

According to women’s online travel network Maiden Voyage, 51 per cent of female business travellers have felt vulnerable in the hotels they stayed at; 31.4 per cent have encountered sexual harassment while travelling; and 70 per cent believe travel providers need to try harder to address their needs.

“When we asked members what they most wanted from their hotel, safety was the overwhelming response,” says CEO Carolyn Pearson, whose network was born of her own ‘isolating experience’ on a business trip to LA. Now a trusted reference point for women on the road with over 8,000 members, Maiden Voyage lists female-friendly hotels in some 80 countries, provides on-the-spot ambassadors to advise on ‘safe’ places to go solo and connects businesswomen staying in the same cities.

When rating hotels, Pearson prizes “well-lit corridors, 24/7 manned reception, double-locking doors because if you lose your hotel key and the hotel doesn’t block it, anyone can let themselves in... and the little things, like not announcing your hotel room number out loud in reception; not putting you on the ground floor or at the end of a corridor next to a fire exit; knowing how to make you feel comfortable in their public dining areas.”

The first establishment to pioneer the hotel as a safe haven for businesswomen opened in Manhattan way back in the 1920s. The female-only Barbizon was the go-to place for ambitious young women looking for career opportunities in New York. Sylvia Plath, Liza Minnelli and Grace Kelly were regulars at this bastion of female independence where men were only admitted to the lobby under strict supervision.

By the 1980s, women-only lodgings fell out of favour with feisty female CEOs who demanded sexual equality in the hotel bedroom décor as well as the boardroom. However, today’s heightened safety concerns have seen history turn full circle. Female-only floors are back in vogue on both sides of the Atlantic; the Gulf States are leading the way with man-free hotels where Arab women can abandon their abayas and OD on spa treatments like westerners; and Richard Branson has stepped up to the plate with his new Virgin Hotels chain, designed with women in mind.

Of course, you can’t please everyone.

The female-only Bella Donna floor at Copenhagen’s AC Bella Sky was ruled illegal by the Danish courts for being discriminatory against men. Now guys too have the right to enjoy the floor’s amenities, including steam irons and free pantyhose!

Understanding what women want – and it’s more than being appeased with posh toiletries – is key for brands looking to maintain their competitive edge. Or, as Skift’s co-founder Jason Clampet says: “Hotels need to work hard to avoid throwing pink on things and adding a glass of Champagne and then saying it’s womanfriendly.”

Here are some which go beyond the usual frills to accommodate their female guests.

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VIRGIN CHAMBERS Sex toys in the minibar and peepholes in the bedroom are part of Richard Branson’s vision of the perfect female-friendly space.

“I don’t think any hotel truly caters to the female traveller,” he said at the 2015 Chicago opening of the first Virgin Hotel. “We’re taking into consideration the rise of female business travellers and appreciate what it means to our success as a brand.”

The 26-storey, Art Deco building houses two-room ‘chambers’ – ‘calling them rooms is

like calling the Space Shuttle an airplane’, says the hotel brochure. The dressing room/ bathroom and bedroom area are divided by sliding privacy doors with peepholes so that ladies can modestly spy on hotel staff delivering room service without revealing themselves in the altogether.

The beds – so special Branson has patented them – feature leather foot-boards that convert into backrests; work on your laptop or watch a movie without getting

out from under the duvet! His and Hers wardrobes, sliding shoe racks, coat hangers for lingerie, well-lit theatre-style dressing tables, a leg-shaving and toenail-painting bench in the shower and an app called Lucy for calling room service are other femalefriendly trimmings.

Those thoughtful Intimacy Kits stored in red Smeg minibars contain condoms, lube and, should the lady be travelling solo, a handy vibrator!

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FIT FOR A DUCHESS

Dukes Palm Jumeirah

Mayfair is renowned for its gentlemen-only clubs but the 15 Duchess Rooms at Dukes Hotel reverse the protocol. Ladies checking into this elegant and quintessentially British five-star hotel are escorted to their rooms by female staff who also take care of room service and housekeeping.

Fresh flowers, slippers sized for ladies’ feet, a boudoir with hairdryer and make-up mirror, glossy lifestyle magazines and a quiet corner table in the restaurant for lone female diners are also part of the service.

“Women represent 30 per cent of our customers,” says MD Debrah Dhugga.

“Although the majority who book our Duchess Rooms are businesswomen, elderly guests and first time travellers also appreciate the reassurance and security.”

Dukes has since exported the Duchess concept to Dubai. Female guests at the brand new Dukes Palm Jumeirah get an entire floor to themselves from which to enjoy the hotel’s stunning pools and water features.

The Duchess Floor’s 20 rooms and 227 apartments are decorated in luscious Liberty prints and the exclusively-female Champagne and Tea Lounge serves up skyline views alongside posh British afternoon tea.

PROSECCO AND HOTTIES Scotland got its first female-friendly hotel last autumn with the opening of Edinburgh’s Leonardo Royal which has its own ladies floor and female staff. The lavish rooms are equipped with a work desk, mini fridge with miniature bottle of Prosecco and an optional hot water bottle to cuddle up to at night. Doors have spy holes and safety locks and girls-only

parking spaces are located right next to the hotel entrance.

“The proportion of lone female business travellers is on the rise,” confirms Operations Manager Lucy Basnett, adding that the concept has been extended to all seven Leonardo Royal hotels in Germany where every fourth guest is a business woman.

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FEMALE-ONLY FLOORS Despite centuries of gender segregation in the Arab world, the women-only hotel option has existed in the region for barely a decade.

The Jumeirah Hotel in Dubai’s Emirates Tower was a pioneer, opening its Chopard Ladies Floor in partnership with the luxury Swiss jewellers in 2005.

Rooms come with yoga mats, kimonos, a cosmetics fridge and lavish Chopard toiletries. Designed for ‘the executive woman seeking sophistication, luxury and privacy’, the concept also allows local women to drop the formalities and indulge in decadent western-style pampering.

Nowadays, it seems no new hotel in the UAE can call itself complete without a nod to girl power.

The new TIME Asma Hotel in Dubai will be run by a

predominantly (80 per cent) female team with two floors exclusive to female guests. Women-only taxis and parking spaces and in-house baby-sitting will be among the services.

As well as their own cars from next summer, Saudi women are driving Middle Eastern hotel design big-style. And Four Seasons Riyadh opened its Pearl Floor in 2013 to cater for their every whim.

A private lift leads to an opulent lobby with express check-in desk run by female staff. The 20 rooms and suites flaunt the finest linens, a professional hairdryer set, yoga mat, personalised room scents and a complementary Oriental abaya. Mums get a night off from the kids, too, as this tranquil, perfumed setting is verboten to children as well as men.

HAREM HOTEL Known locally as The Sanctuary, the Luthan Hotel and Spa in Riyadh is run exclusively for women by women – down to the electrical engineers and plumbers. Owned by a consortium of Saudi princesses and businesswomen, the hotel provides the feel of a private members’ club with a splendid spa, business centre and gym. In most other hotels these areas would usually be off limits to Saudi women. In the Luthan’s restaurants, they can sit wherever they want rather than in a ‘family section’ shielded from the men-only area by screens.

This boutique hotel’s 25 rooms twinkle with tea lights around the clock and are decorated in sassy pinks and purples. And, with its closely guarded entrance and tinted windows, local women can shed the full-length black abayas they have to wear in public and be themselves.

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DANGER ZONES CAPSULE COMFORT Japan’s capsule hotels were made for middle-aged men only but an increasing number are being designed with women in mind. Since the first one opened in 1979, the budget-priced sleep pods have fascinated westerners and female travellers have long been clamouring for their own. In the last two years they’ve got their wish, with three new girl-only options in Tokyo alone.

New last autumn, the Nine Hours Woman Kanda near JR Kanda Station offers 70 capsules, with hairdryers!

“When I started this business in 1999, we hardly saw any foreign customers… it’s really different now,” said owner Keisuke Yui, who expects half of the clients at the new hotel will be foreigners.

Women have higher risk profiles than men, according to the Global Business Travel Association. ‘They are ‘5.6 times more likely to be sexually assaulted and are certainly more likely to encounter sexual harassment, theft, and scams.’

TripAdvisor has recently begun red flagging hotels where sexual assaults have been reported. The move follows criticism of the site for removing comments – including allegations of rape – that violate its ‘family-friendly policy’.

The International Women’s Travel Centre publishes annual rankings of the riskiest countries to visit, calculated from traveller feedback and data from the

Global Peace Index. The rankings exclude war zones and humanitarian disaster areas. The top five riskiest destinations for solo female travellers in 2017 were: Z TURKEY, due to ‘nearly continual terrorist attacks, a coup that has led to a rather uncertain environment for everyone, and continuing harassment of women’.

Z RUSSIA for its high rate of crime. ‘Attitudes hostile to women are on the increase with recent legislation decriminalising certain types of domestic violence’, says the IWTC. Z VENEZUELA for ‘its violent crime rate and political instability, the result of a

disintegrating economy’. In Caracas, there are long queues for staple goods and prostitution is rife.

Z EGYPT. Sexual harassment and violence remain ‘endemic’, on top of a high incidence of terrorism, rape, kidnapping, and robbery. ‘This is not the country to travel solo,’ advises the IWTC. Z INDIA is infamous for ‘the many ways a woman traveller can be badly hurt, traumatised for life or even killed. It’s got so bad that the Indian Tourism Minister advises female tourists to avoid wearing skirts.’

And the five safest countries?

In order, they are ICELAND, DENMARK, NEW ZEALAND, AUSTRIA and SWITZERLAND. e

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h THE LEISURE hotel

With its luxury amenities, a perfect beachside setting and pampering health and beauty programmes, Healthouse Las Dunas is more than just a five-star resort hotel.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HEALTHOUSE

A Five-st ar Deluxe Retreat

HEALTHOUSE

LAS DUNAS

T

raditionally, going on holiday is accompanied by a quirky mix of rest, relaxation, excitement and activity that also encompasses a higher than usual indulgence in food and alcoholic beverages.

When on holiday we typically tend to eat more ice creams, stop for lunch or succumb to large dinners and creamy desserts. Luxury hotels have generally simply added more quantity and quality to this mix, meaning that many needed another ‘vacation’ just to recover from their holiday, no matter how ‘luxury’ it was. But times have changed. A growing number of people are not just more aware of the need to look after themselves through healthy nutrition and activity, but many actually enjoy the lifestyle – especially when linked to associated philosophies such as organic produce and sustainable, responsible farming. The number of trendy health-based eateries and organic shops continues to grow rapidly, above all in Northern Europe and North America, but also in places like Marbella.

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A HEALTH RESORT Originally founded in Barcelona, Naturhouse is a company that takes this concept into the world of luxury resort hotels, offering those people who wish to lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle the chance to also vacation in this way. “Our guests come from across Spain, Europe and even from around the globe, but what they have in common is a desire to enjoy a relaxing, luxury holiday in a beautiful setting while also remaining healthy – or even improving their fitness during the stay,” says Roberto Freire, Resident Manager at the Healthouse Las Dunas on the New Golden Mile.

To accommodate this, the main part of the hotel with its 55 luxurious suites is adults-only, ensuring peace, relaxation and, let’s face it, a greater sense of refinement in the gorgeous seaside pool, cabana bar and immaculate lawn where yoga classes are held against the backdrop of the Pillars of Hercules. The fine dining restaurant looks out across the garden and pool to take in fantastic sea views

that accompany the creative cuisine of Andoni Luis Aduriz, two-star Michelin chef and founder of one of Spain’s finest restaurants, Mugaritz.

For Las Dunas he creates a bespoke offering built upon fine produce from the hotel’s own organic vegetable garden or sourced from specialist suppliers. The emphasis is on creating Michelin style dishes that are, however, also entirely healthy and rejuvenating.

“Whether you’re a guest enjoying a vacation or following a health cure, or just come for lunch or dinner, you’ll notice that we offer fine dining with a health-conscious twist,” says Cristina Martínez of the marketing department. A new restaurant will be opening in the hotel this year that expands further upon this concept and focuses more on outside diners and guests staying in the hotel’s 31 independent apartment suites, where children, by the way, are more than welcome.

A LUXURY HEALTH DESTINATION The Healthouse Las Dunas is a luxury hotel with a niche element in which health is central. The 3,000m2 Health & Wellness Center offers a full range of comprehensive weight loss, detox, anti-ageing and recuperative programmes supervised by experts in their fields and makes use of state-of-the-art facilities, while the Naturhouse Spa creates a beautifully serene setting in which to relax, be pampered and enjoy beauty treatments. Day visitors are welcome too, and for those on a health regime the hotel offers a chance to simultaneously experience a five-star resort hotel, complete with personalised treatment programmes and meals.

“Our chefs are also on hand to show guests how to prepare simple, healthy and absolutely delicious food without preservatives and additives,” says Cristina. For those who thought you had to fly to Thailand or Bali to enjoy a rejuvenating luxury spa resort experience, a five-star alternative is available right on our doorstep. i www.healthouse-naturhouse.com 24/01/2018 11:52

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

b the gourmet RESTAURANTS REVIEWS NEWS GASTRONOMY CHEFS WINE

125 Cibo

126 Food News

128 Food Trends

130 Priorat Wine

ENJOY AN AUTHENTIC ITALIAN MEAL AT CIBO, DISCOVER THE LATEST FOOD TRENDS WORLDWIDE, AND SAVOUR A FULL-BODIED GLASS OF PRIORAT WHILE ENJOYING THE REST OF THIS MONTH’S

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MAGAZINE.

24/01/2018 13:21

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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SAVE MONEY. SAVE TIME An online restaurant reservation system that streamlines your bookings, reaches more diners and saves you money

one H T MON

E FRRE IAL T

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restaurants THE GOURMET b

Dining in Style at

CIBO

Cibo on the Golden Mile, a trendy dining spot serving traditional and creative Italian dishes alike, has fast earned itself a reputation for offering a guaranteed knockout experience. Its trendy interiors (think designer lighting features, solid wood tables, colourful fabrics) and excellent service are married to an exquisite new menu. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

MARKET FRESH, QUALITY INGREDIENTS STEAL THE SHOW The secret that keeps diners coming back for more is the ingredients.

Authentic Italian products such as Bufalo mozzarella, imported cheeses, specialty flours and Italian beer yeast used for stone-baked pizzas transport us to the flavours and aromas of a quaint Italian village, while we contemplate interiors that have the pizzaz of a restaurant in Manhattan’s Restaurant Row. One of the most impressive dishes my dining companions and I enjoyed on our recent visit was the Cibo classic: tagliolini al Tartufo negro.

Manager Bianca, who was attending to us on the day, took a huge parmesan wheel, shaving generous portions and placing the creamy pasta into the wheel and turning it until all the cheese and delicious aromas were fully absorbed. The pasta was served with a topping of truffle in oil and, to finish, she took a fresh truffle and grated it over the plate by the side of our table: a spectacle to behold.

STARTING THE FEAST

Cibo has a select but varied selection of starters in their brand new menu.

There were four of us on the day, and we chose ‘a bit of everything’ to share before our mains. The salmon tartare was wonderfully citric, doused as it was with soy and lime to tantalise the taste buds. We enjoyed it with wine; half the table enjoyed a Pinot Blush, while the other opted for a Marqués de Riscal Verdejo Rueda – both fruity and ideal companions to fish and seafood delights.

The meatballs and mozarella is a must-order starter at Cibo: comprising a generous ‘mini’ pizza ball surrounded by tender little meatballs, smothered in freshly made tomato sauce and cheese, it truly soothed the soul on a chilly winter’s day. We enjoyed it with a salad – in this case the parma ham and feta salad, jazzed up with fresh figs and candied walnuts – a beautiful blend of salty and sweet.

A perfect instance of comfort food at its finest was the slow roast tomato and basil soup, bearing

the characteristic texture and flavour which results from roasting tomatoes with love and patience.

STAR OF THE SHOW

As mentioned above, the tagliatelle dish had us ooing and aahing, both for its flavour and presentation; at Cibo, expect to experience this level of pampering and old world style luxury, delivered by some of the friendliest staff you will encounter on the Coast.

A lovely choice for Paleo/low carb fans was the monkfish tail, nice and juicy, wrapped in pancetta bacon and served with crisp Mediterranean vegetables and a delightful, slightly sweet basil pesto cream.

As Cibo is an Italian restaurant, we logically chose to celebrate its exquisite pizza and pasta. We ordered a pizza from the gluten-free menu (which is impressively ample).

Stone oven-cooked and wonderfully fine and crisp, this pizza is heavenly regardless of whether or not gluten is an issue in your diet.

Meanwhile, the linguine frutti di

g Blvd. Principe Alfonso Von Hohenlohe 11, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 380. www.cibomarbella.com

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mare bore a generous portion of King prawnes, clams, squid, and mussels, as well as pan roasted Italian cherry tomatoes.

A SWEET END TO THE MEAL

For dessert, what could be more ideal than tiramisu? The wonderful flavour of espresso coffee went down beautifully with our café con leche, and yes, we also gave in to the sinful Dolce/Banana, comprising a rich chocolate brownie, salted caramel, caramelised banana and ice-cream.

The warmth of the interiors and Bianca’s exquisite service made this a long lunch, one of those where wonderful conversation flows naturally, and is complemented beautifully by a glass of wine or two.

Cibo, which has free parking and is so central in its location, certainly merits its reputation for being a place to meet and greet, see and be seen. Sophistication and a sense of being at home, married to top quality produce and friendly service, are a clear recipe for success.

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b THE GOURMET news

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

MEDIA LUNA CHILLOUT TERRACE Launches at the Gran Hotel Miramar Málaga

The recently reformed Gran Hotel Miramar Málaga, in front of Málaga’s most famous beach (La Malagueta), has opened a brand new chillout terrace on the seventh floor. Swish revellers can relax, sip on a wide array of premium beverages, and tuck into gourmet bites while they enjoy the stunning view of the sea. There will also be a plethora of DJ nights and live performances. Open nightly from 12pm onwards. i www.granhotelmiramarmalaga.com

SUPERFOODS

FOR 2018 AORA Health, a Spanish research and development group that develops nutritional supplements, recently published a report identifying a list of superfoods we should aim to enjoy more of in 2018. These include saffron (to help lift the mood), rhodiola (to battle fatigue), withania (Indian gingseng – to help battle stress), Californian poppy (to enhance sleep), blood orange (a great source of Vitamin D) and red grapes (rich in anti-ageing resveratrol). i To obtain the full list, visit www.aoralife.com

JACKS

FRANGOS PERI PERI – The

Secret is in The Sauce

Frangos Peri Peri recently hosted a press lunch at their BBQ grill restaurant in Puerto Banús which saw members of the local media tucking into juicy burgers, succulent ribs, chicken wings and yummy salads among many other dishes offered, including their special spicy French fries. A great lunch venue, the diner is currently open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 12 - 5pm with dinner also available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, until 10pm. From March onwards, it will remain open from 10am - 10pm every day.

Sundays also feature roast lunches, with a choice of beef, chicken, pork ribs or lamb chops. g Calle Jesús Puente 27, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 039 452.

SMOKEHOUSE: Movie and a Meal at a 15% Discount

Jacks Smokehouse on the frontline of Puerto Banús, an American brasserie famed for its barbecue smokehouse cuisine, is pleased to announce that it is offering diners a 15% discount. All you need to do is visit Cines Teatro Goya in Puerto Banús to get your ticket with a 15% discount voucher for the diner. Available until February 28; only one voucher can be used per table. i www.jacks-smokehouse.com

Estepona Prepares for

RUTA DE LA TAPA 2018 Ruta de la Tapa is a fun competition/event taking place yearly in Estepona, in which bars and restaurants offer special prices for tapas and diners vote on traditional and creative bite-sized snacks as they make their way through seasoned establishments for a small price. This year’s event will be taking place from March 9 to 11. i www.cultura.estepona.es/ix-ruta-de-la-tapa

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e f i l r o f e t i t e p p a An

B E A C H F R O N T D I N I N G AT S E A G R I L L # P U E N T E L I F E 3 6 5 Almuerzos a pie de playa con las olas del

Seafront dining with the waves rolling

Mediterrรกneo rompiendo en la orilla. Los

onto the golden sand. The best fish and

mejores pescados y mariscos, del mar a la

seafood, from sea to table and Grand

mesa. Gran Buffet los fines de semana.

Buffet on weekends.

hotel@puenter om ano.com +34 952 820 900 | puent e r o m a no . c o m

b THE GOURMET trends

5

COOL PRODUCTS FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO SAVOUR IN 2018

For a taste of the future, try these nouvelle products: Z GO CUBES CHEWABLE COFFEE: This product

gives you your daily boost of java in bite form; made with real cold-brew coffee, they enhance clarity and energy without making you feel jittery.

Z BEYOND MEAT BURGERS: This totally vegan burger actually ‘bleeds’ when you bite into it… it is made of a pulverised beet blend that tastes just like the real thing.

Z TABERU MANGO FLAVOURED CRISPY SEAWEED WITH RICE KRISPIES: Made of seaweed, rice krispies and mango, this snack is as rich in vitamins and nutrients as it is irresistible.

Z SAP! MAPLE BEVERAGES: Maple sap holds a myriad of health benefits with naturally occurring antioxidants, vitamins, electrolytes, nutrients and minerals. Sap! makes 100% alcohol-free bubbly drinks which are a healthier alternative to sugar-sweetened beverages.

Z STUMPTOWN SPARKLING COLD BREWS: These sparkling beverages contain various kinds of coffee. A great choice to take to barbecues or in your lunchbox when you forgot your Nespresso at home.

FOOD TRENDS

for the Mindful Millennials

Millennials are a discerning bunch, whose passion for gourmet dining is rivalled only by their greater knowledge about health or their interest in the origin of foods and how they reach our table. Mindfulness has undoubtedly been the zeitgeist of the 21st century since its inception, affecting everything from our approach to exercise, to the type of dining experience we seek.

Marisa Cutillas highlights just a few trends that will be taking over tables during the next decade.

ASMR FOOD EXPERIENCES

If you don’t know what ASMR is, just type in 'woman eating pickle' on YouTube and get ready to be blown away. Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response is an experience characterised by a tingling sensation on skin that is deeply relaxing and exciting all at once; it usually begins on the scalp and makes its way down the neck and upper spine.

ASMR videos feature people whispering (to lessen the sound of the voice and strengthen that of food) while they tap their fingers on plastic boxes containing food, crinkle paper bags containing anything from hash browns to nuggets, and chew into snacks, while we enjoy a sense of euphoria (and resist the temptation to try all those delicious goodies).

FARM TO TABLE CUISINE

Call it slow food, zero kilometre cuisine or a penchant for local foods. It’s been around for over a decade but its importance will grow exponentially in 2018. Mindfulness eating involves taking the time to really enjoy the ‘here

and now’ of one’s dining experience.

Often, this means foregoing fast food in favour of seasonal produce sourced from nearby farms or gardens.

Science is to be credited for this movement, since the two largest meta analyses on organic vs conventionally grown/raised foods has come to two important conclusions: organic produce truly does have significantly higher levels of antioxidants and organic meat up to 150 per cent more Omega-3 essential fatty acids than their conventional counterparts.

Diners who are well aware of the link between their lifestyle choices and the state of their health are queueing up for experiences that provide authentic fuel (rather than delicious but empty calories) for their body.

VEGAN CUISINE

If you still haven’t seen Forks Over Knives or What the Health, you may still be happily munching on meat, but science has more than established two ‘inconvenient truths’: firstly, the meat industry is largely to blame for world poverty (because livestock takes up 30

per cent of the world’s ice-free surface and produces around 37 per cent of human-caused methane emissions).

Secondly, red meat consumption is linked to an increased local risk of total, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality.

Meanwhile, vegan and raw vegan restaurants are serving some of the most delicious, texture-rich, colourfully presented foods on the gastro scene.

In Marbella, Gioia restaurant is the perfect instance of how creative raw vegan cuisine has become.

THE INTERNET OF THINGS, SMART REFRIGERATORS AND CUPBOARDS

We are busier than ever and most of us don’t want to spend the little free time we have in a supermarket. Over the next decade, our very own homes will become our personal grocery store, thanks to artificial intelligence, which will automatically order any goods we have consumed.

According to Forbes, supermarkets will then go gourmet, enticing us with new and exciting foods, as well as

artisan items and foods prepared with healthy, organic ingredients.

Stores will also have more space to dedicate to foods which bestow specific health benefits, including guthealthy foods like kimchi, sauerkraut and kombucha (fermented goods), yogurts with probiotics, and foods like Jerusalem artichoke or chicory root, which are excellent sources of prebiotics.

SMALLER INGREDIENTS LISTS

Buyers are not only savvier about ingredients, they also want less of them. Thus, brands like Häagen-Dazs sells ice-cream products containing only five ingredients: cream, milk, sugar, egg yolk, and chocolate (or vanilla, ginger, strawberries, etc.).

Other companies, like Pillsbury, have created cookie lines with the exact ingredients you would use at home.

Yes, these foods are still processed, but at least they don’t contain a long list of chemicals that can have health effects we are completely unaware of in most cases. e

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b THE GOURMET wine Some 90 kms west of Barcelona, the town of Falset lies at the junction of two dynamic wine regions: Montsant and Priorat.

Historically considered utterly traditional, both forged a reputation for making wines that were anything but. We’ll focus on the small and precocious region of Priorat. WORDS WORDS PHILIP BOMBER HARRIS

T

he steep and winding road up from Falset hints as to what awaits. Priorat takes its name from an ancient priory: Priorato de Scala Dei. Some 850 years ago a small shepherd boy, presumably free of substances, had witnessed angels descending to earth via a stairway to heaven (Scala Dei) and many years before, Led Zeppelin, probably inspired by substances, achieved immortality by singing about it (the staircase, not the priory), Carthusian monks became established there.

The monks have long departed but the priory’s cellar house one of the most famous estates of the region – Scala Dei founded in 1973, but whose cellars have been family owned since 1835.

Some 1,900 hectares of vineyards cling to vertigo-inducing slopes with seemingly unreachable rows of vines (costers) proliferating on schistous outcrops. Terraces too have been hewn into the mountainside and the Siurana valley. Such topography leads to regional variation with wines from the cooler sites of Porrera or La Morera treated differently to those of hotter villages like Bellmunt and El Lloar. This schist is unique

PRIORAT and is called llicorella: alternate layers of slate and quartzite give the resemblance of a tiger’s skin in sunlight (of which there is plenty).

It is incredibly solid, involving back-breaking work in planting and tending the vines. Irrigation is impractical on this and yields are meagre so its total production of around 4 million bottles, can be matched by individual Rioja estates.

Having bumbled along for centuries, Priorat’s history over the last 40 years borders on revolutionary! In the earliest days, the Garnacha grape, supported by Cariñena, ruled and wines tended to be big, rustic and alcoholic. One of the earliest names in the market was Masia Barril, founded in 1931

by Rafael Barril Figueras. Up until 1980 their grapes were sold to de Muller for the production of Vatican approved sacramental wine, but in 1980, under Rafael Barril Dosset, the first wine was bottled for Peñin (of wine Guide fame). Wines from different plots were fermented separately and then blended, creating ‘new Priorat in the old style’ according to Dosset. However, the estate was sold in 1998, heralding the advent of new minds and

initiatives in the region.

It was a group of estates, fronted by a former journalist, Carles Pastrana of Costers del Siurana and René Barbier of Clos Mogador which really put Priorat on the world map. Known as the Gratallops Pioneers, these estates, along with Álvaro Palacios, Mas Martinet and others planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, alongside the traditional grapes of Garnacha and Cariñena (the latter is technically Samsó here to avoid confusion with the Cariñena region). The wines or estates would be named ‘Clos’ to differentiate from the old guard.

Techniques such as the use of new French oak, high extraction, together with the new varieties produced blockbuster wines with substance, fruit and chewy tannins, although they managed to carry their high alcohol levels in a more refined way than their predecessors. Today’s equivalent would be the ‘Super Tuscans’ from Italy.

The influential wine critic Robert Parker could barely contain his excitement and the wines achieved high ratings, monstrous prices and a host of ‘wannabees’ clinging to

the bandwagon. Priorat became the second area after Rioja to achieve DOCa (DOQ in local language) status in 2003 and in 2009 formed the first ever village classification; ‘Vi de la Vila’, including among others, Torroja and Gratallops.

Inevitably there was a backlash against all that had gone before and we are now witnessing the third major change within the region. As before, it is producer-led and questions the wisdom of the previous methods. In vinification the emphasis is now on infusion, not extraction, earlier harvesting and minimising oak flavours with both Ricard Rofes of Scala Dei and Dominik Huber of Terroir al Límit adapting their winemaking to reflect Burgundian practices. They and the group ‘Priorat Singulars’, founded in November 2017 and including Mas Doix, Val Llach and Clos Figueras are re-instating Garnacha, albeit in higher altitude vineyards than before and to uproot the French varieties which are now deemed unsuitable for the schist. Ironic, given that some of these estates are ripping up the rule book they created themselves 20 years ago. Will there be another shift in 2037? e

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El mes del amor en Marbella Club The Month of Love

PARA DISFRUTAR EN PAREJA DURANTE EL MES DE FEBRERO Un entrenamiento en pareja, Aero Yoga o Pilates / 55 min Una clase de cocina saludable, en pareja / 90 min Masaje con piedras calientes, por persona / 80 min * Promoción sujeta a reconfirmación por parte del hotel Válido hasta el 28 de febrero.

TO ENJOY TOGETHER THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY One Couples’ Workout, Aerial Yoga or Pilates / 55 min One Healthy Cooking Demonstration Couples’ class / 90 min Heated Lava Stone Massage, per person / 80 min *Promotion subject to reconfirmation by the hotel.

Available until 28th February

≠ 530* por pareja / per couple (+34) 952 822 211 / wellness@marbellaclub.com Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602, Marbella, Málaga, Spain Telephone (34) 952 822 211 marbellaclub.com

. . 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

under €25

€25 – €40

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

EL BANCO

Open seven days a week from noon till late. Puerto Marina, Benalmádena.

Tel: 952 563 673

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

JACKS SMOKEHOUSE

GAUCHOS

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

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

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

MR. GOURMET BURGER

HACIENDA PATAGONICA

Open from 6pm ‘til late every evening.

Avda. Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 785 257

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ de la Acera de la Marina 2, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 968

YANX

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

Open from 9am Monday to Saturday and Sunday

ORIGEN

LISTINGS PET NEWS WHAT’S ON STARS FAMILY FUN

€40 – €60

€60 plus

RUTA 40

Marbella. Tel: 952 783 714

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

CASA MONO

belgian MYTILUS

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

eco

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

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,

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

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

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

gluten-free CELICIOSO

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

At the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile.

Tel: 952 820 900

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listings THE GUIDE .

greek

EL RANCHO DEL PUERTO

JAIPUR PALACE

Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 148

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

GRILL DEL PUERTO

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

RED PEPPER

grills

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

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

Tel: 952 888 353

ASADOR CRIOLLO GRILL

MARBELLA CLUB GRILL

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

Open every night for dinner. Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd.

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

MASSALA

OLD TOWN GRILL

MUMTAZ

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

Tel: 952 867 306

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

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

international

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

RESTAURANTE RANCHO

EL CARNICERO

VOVEM

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

Tel: 952 886 307

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

Tel: 952 003 434

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

EL CARNICERO 2

VOVEM

ACINIPO

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

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

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

Tel: 607 680 999

EL GAUCHO Open daily for dinner from 7.30pm. Galerías Paniagua.

Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 528

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

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

indian CORIANDER

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

11&11 RESTOBAR

AIDAN’S BAR & GRILL Open Thursday to Tuesday for dinner from 5:30pm.

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

AL ROLO

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

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

ALBERTS Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Cabopino.

Tel: 952 836 886

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

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

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

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

BIBO Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday afternoon and all of Monday. At the Hotel Puente Romano. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von

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. THE GUIDE listings

Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 607 011

EL JINETE

BLACK AND WHITE MARBELLA

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

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

Tel: 952 815 607

CAFÉ DE RONDA Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 7pm.

Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 149

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

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

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

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

EL OLIVO 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

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

FABIOLA

Open every day from 6pm except Sundays.

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

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

CELIMA

FINCA BESAYA

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

Tel: 952 895 639.

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

CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA

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

CASANIS

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

FINCA EL FORJADOR

C.C. Laguna Village, local R1, Estepona.

Tel: 952 800 873

LA BIZNAGA

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

Tel: 952 762 000

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

LOS BANDIDOS

LA BRISA

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

Tel: 952 816 105

Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm.

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

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

Tel: 951 318 815

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

LA GRANADA DIVINO Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday.

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

LA LOGGIA

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

LOS NARANJOS RESTAURANT

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

MAGNA CAFÉ Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

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

MC CAFÉ 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 breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks. Hotel Villa Padierna & Flamingos Golf Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 166 (Cancelada exit), Benahavís.

Tel: 952 889 150

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

LA TERRAZA

MIRAFLORES GOLF RESTAURANT

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

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

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

Tel: 952 780 927

LA TERRAZA

MOJO

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

GD GOURMET DELI MARBELLA

LA TIENDA

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

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

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

Open nightly for dinner except Mondays. C/ La Tienda 1, Urb. La Virginia, Marbella. Tel: 626 273 882

DON LEONE

HERMOSA

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm.

Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino.

Tel: 952 837 483

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

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

Tel: 956 704 131

D.O.M

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

Tel: 951 339 309

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

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

Tel: 952 880 126

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

EL CHIRINGUITO At the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Blvd.

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

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

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

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

FONDA RESTAURANTE EL POSTILLÓN 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

HILLS CAFE Open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 6pm and 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

LA PLAGE DE CASANIS 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 VERANDA Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner.

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

LA VERANDAH

MESSINA

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

MOMO MARBELLA GOLDEN MILE Open nightly for dinner, except Sunday. Avda. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 30, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 760

MONKEY CLUB Open nightly for dinner. At the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 607 018

NELI Gs Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Benavista, Estepona. Tel: 952 928 576

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

NŌMŌ BRASSERIE

LA VERANDA LOBBY BAR

OCHO

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

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 12, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 460 232 / 648 502 822

JOFFREY’S

LIMA

OLIVIA’S LA CALA

Open everyday evening for dinner from 5.30 pm.

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

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, lunch and dinner. C/ Torreón 13, Las Lagunas de Mijas. Tel: 952 494 935

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

IL MARE

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

Tel: 952 815 736

LES CUBES

KAVA

L’OLIVE

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

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

LAGUNA BEACH RESTAURANTE

LOS ARCOS

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

Open for lunch and dinner every day except for Sunday. Bulevar de San Pedro, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 951 702 168

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

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

RESTAURANTE ROYAL Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Torrequebrada, Benalmádena Costa.

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listings THE GUIDE .

Tel: 952 441 414

SUITE

THE PLAYWRIGHT

ROJO Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday.

C/ Granada, 44, Málaga. Tel: 952 227 486

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Manzana, Locales 8-11, Pueblo Los Arcos, Elviria.

Tel: 952 830 868

SAVOR

TANINO

TIKITANO

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Guadalmansa, CN340, km 164, Estepona.

Tel: 952 798 449

TERRA SANA

italian AL DENTE

Open every day for dinner. Closed on Mondays. Urb. Jardines del Puerto, local 12, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 181

AMORE E FANTASÍA Open every day for lunch and dinner from 7pm onwards. Muelle Benabola, Casa 5A, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 464

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

TROCADERO ARENA

THE ENGLISH GARDEN

VENTA GARCÍA

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 every day except Monday. Ctra. de Casares km 7, Casares.

Tel: 952 894 191

VILLA PADIERNA CLUB DE MAR

CIBO

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

THE LITTLE GERANIUM

Open daily for lunch from 1pm to 6pm.

CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 647 791 515

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 11, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 380

ZEST

DA BRUNO

SOLEO MARBELLA BEACH CLUB RESTAURANT

Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays. Avda.

Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella.

Tel: 952 772 577

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

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

SEA GRILL At the Puente Romano Beach Club. Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 187, Marbella.

Tel: 952 820 900

SHANTI-SOM – AMRITA 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

SKINA

Open daily from 11am to 8pm. Avda. Duque de Ahumada s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 562 887

SOLLO Open nightly for dinner except Sundays. Urb. Reserva del Higuerón, Málaga. Tel: 951 385 622

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 7pm to 11pm. CN340, km 178.5, Marbella. Tel: 951 354 213

THE MEETING ROOM

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.

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

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

ZOZOI Open Wednesday to Monday for dinner. Closed Tuesday. Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella.

Tel: 952 858 868

ARETUSA Open daily for dinner. Front line P. Banús.

Tel: 952 812 898

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

CASA TUA Open every evening for dinner. C/ Ortiz de Molinillo 14, Marbella. Tel: 951 712 227

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

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner at the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile.

Tel: 952 771 798

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

DON GIOVANI

VALPARAÍSO

SAKURA

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

Open nightly for dinner. Ctra. Mijas – Fuengirola, km.

14, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 485 996

FRASCATI

VILLA TIBERIO

Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Avda. José Banús, 5, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 817 536

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

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

GOLD RESTAURANT Open every day from 10am to 12 am. Complejo Benabola 13, Beach Side, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 929 055

mediterranean

Open daily for dinner. At the Villa Padierna Palace Hotel. CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 180

SAPPORO

EL BARLOVENTO Open from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 790 370

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Costa del Sol, upper level. CN 340, km. 166 (Estepona).

Tel: 952 888 710

LA TORRE

SUKHO THAI

MARISQUERÍA LA PESQUERA

oriental

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

ASIAN FUSION BING

Closed until March 15. Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday. Centro Comercial Marbellamar. Tel: 952 770 550

Open 12.30pm-4.30pm and 6.30pm to 12am daily.

Fuengirola, Paseo Marítimo, L-42C. Tel: 952 470 218

SUSHI DES ARTISTES (HIDEYOSHI WAGYU)

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

LA PAPPARDELLA DI ESTEPONA

ASIATICO ZEN 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. CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking. Tel: 952 857 403

PALAPA

Open every day for lunch and dinner from 1pm to midnight. Puerto Deportivo de Estepona.

Tel: 952 802 144

LA PAPPARDELLA SUL MARE

BAMBOO

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

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Ctra.

Istan km 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 906 674

LA TRATTORIA

DRAGÓN DE ORO

Open daily from 7pm to 11pm.

At the Don Carlos Leisure Resort & Spa. Avenida Zurita, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

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

IL TARTUFO Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from 6:30pm. C/ Tetuán 9, Marbella. Tel: 951 087 323

LA FIORENTINA Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. El Pilar, Local 11 (opposite the Crown Plaza Hotel), Estepona.

Tel: 952 885 765

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

METRO

RESTAURANTE BAR CARMEN

SANTOKU

seafood

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona.

Tel: 952 806 739

GENJI SUSHI BAR

At Plaza Village at the Hotel Puente Romano.

Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 818 392

KABUKI RAW Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. At Finca Cortesín Hotel. Ctra. Casares s/n, Casares.

Tel: 952 937 800

KAIDEN SUSHI

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 8-11pm. The San Roque Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 127, San Roque, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 613 030

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 035

RISTORANTE SAN MARTINO

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Gregorio Marañón 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 839

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

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

Catalan Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 76501

PORTOFINO LAGUNA VILLAGE

TA-KUMI

THAI GALLERY

KAMA KURA

Open daily from 12 noon. Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 669

Open seven days a week for dinner. H. Puente Romano, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 177, Marbella.

Tel: 952 777 893

GOLDEN WOK

NUNOS

PIZZERIA PICASSO

TAI PAN

TEPPANYAKI SAMURAI

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

Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner.

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

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

Open from 1:30pm-4pm and 8pm to 11pm. C/ Ramón Gomez de la Serna, 4, Edificio Balmoral. Marbella. Tel: 951 530 955

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

O MAMMA MIA

SUSHI KATSURA

MAKITAKE

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Manolete 20, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 549

THAI STYLE Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Playas del Duque s/n. Edif. Gaviotas IV, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 675s

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner.

C/ Ribera s/n (above disco Seven), Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 592

WAGAMAMA

MECA

WASABI

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pino Golf, Don Carlos, Local 1, Elviria, Marbella.

Tel: 952 830 365 / 658 646 829

Open daily from 1.30 pm for lunch and dinner.

C.C. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 577

NOBU

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinares de Elviria s/n, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 702

Open nightly for dinner. At the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 778 686

ROSMARINO DELLA PIAZZA

OMBÚ

Open every day from 12pm ‘til midnight for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinogolf de Don Carlos 34, Elviria.

Tel: 952 850 148

Open from 7pm to 11pm, Wednesday to Sunday. At the Don Carlos Leisure Resort & Spa. Avenida Zurita, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

SERAFINA

OSAKA

Open daily for lunch and dinner. 19 Ocean Village promenade, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 44182

scandinavian ALOHA RESTAURANT

Open every evening for dinner from 6pm to 11.30pm.

Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 811 285

SKANDIES Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm. Closed Mondays. Avda. Antonio Belón, 26 (behind the lighthouse), Marbella. Tel: 952 776 323

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

RESTAURANTE EL BOTE

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 FERNANDO Open from Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Avda. del Mediterráneo s/n, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 853 344

HACIENDA Open from 1-4.30pm and 7.30 -11pm. Closed on Sunday afternoons and Mondays. Urb. La Alcaidesa, La Linea de la Concepción. Tel: 956 582 700

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 except Sunday.

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

LA MORAGA BISTRÓ 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 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

MESÓN EL ADOBE Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays.

Avda. La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3, Marbella.

Tel. 600 003 144

MI TABERNA Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

CN340, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

PAELLAS Y MÁS Open daily from 10:30am to 11pm. C/ Jacinto Benavente 33, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 511

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. THE GUIDE listings

*gyms & sports clubs

VILA DO GROVE

TEATRO CIUDAD DE MARBELLA

CLUB DE GOLF LA CAÑADA

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Las Malvas, Edif. On Line, Local 2, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 813 415

Plaza Ramón Martínez, Marbella.

Tel: 952 903 159

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 794 100

EL PARAISO CLUB DE GOLF

C.C. Alhamar, CN-340 km 197. Tel: 952 934 684

TEATRO SALON VARIETES

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 883 835

ATENAS

*cinemas & theatres

Emancipación 30. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 474 542

ESTEPONA GOLF

Barquilla 1. Marbella. Tel: 952 776 240

AZTEC COUNTRY CLUB

AUDITORIO MUNICIPAL MIJAS

VERACRUZ CINES

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 937 605. www.esteponagolf.com

Plaza de la Libertad 2. Mijas. Tel: 952 590 380

Veracruz. Estepona. Tel: 952 800 056

FINCA CORTESÍN GOLF CLUB

CENTRO DEPORTIVO EL FUERTE

AUDITORIO MUNICIPAL TORREMOLINOS

YELMO CINEPLEX

Av. El Fuerte s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 861 624

Plaza de España, Recinto Ferial. Tel: 952 379 521

Plaza Mayor. Tel: 902 220 922

18 holes, Par 72, Tel: 952 937 883. www.golfcortesin.es

*golf guide

FLAMINGOS GOLF CLUB

Ramón y Cajal 21. Marbella. Tel: 952 773 804

18 holes, Par. Tel: 952 889 157. www.flamingos-golf.com

CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA

GOLF RÍO REAL

CLUB DEL SOL

CINESA LA CAÑADA

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 791 0400. www.alcaidesa.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 756 733

La Cañada. Marbella. Tel: 902 333 231

ALHAURÍN GOLF

GOLF TORREQUEBRADA

Tennis /paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

CINES TEATRO GOYA

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 595 970. www.alhauringolf.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 442 742

DY GYM MARBELLA

Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 196 665

GUADALMINA GOLF

Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 074

CINESUR

ALMENARA GOLF

36 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 883 375

DYNAMIC TRAINING CENTRE

C.C. Miramar, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 198 605

27 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 582 027. www.sotogrande.com

LA CALA GOLF RESORT

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 021

54 holes, Pars 71, 72 and 73.

Tel: 952 669 033. www.lacala.com

FITNESS CENTRE NEW STYLE

LA DAMA DE NOCHE

FUERTE GYM

MULTICINES MEDITERRÁNEO

18 holes. Tel: 952 907 085. www.clubdegolfaloha.com

9 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 818 150

Avda. El Fuerte, Marbella. Tel: 952 861 624

Mijas. Tel: 952 663 738

ATALAYA GOLF

LA DUQUESA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

GIMNASIO ESTADIO

PALACIO DE LA PAZ

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 890 425

Recinto Ferial. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 589 349

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 882 812. www.atalaya-golf.com

Trav. Huerta de los Cristales, Marbella.

Tel: 952 828 217

TEATRO ALAMEDA

CABOPINO GOLF 18 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 850 282

27 holes, Par 72.Tel: 952 762 390. www.laquintagolf.com

HAPPY DIVER’S CLUB

Calle Córdoba 9, Málaga. Tel: 952 213 412

TEATRO CERVANTES

CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA

LA RESERVA SOTOGRANDE

HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

Ramos Marín, 199, Málaga. Tel: 952 224 109

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 951 703 355

18 holes. Tel: 956 695 209

CN340, Km77,5. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

LA ZAGALETA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

KRAV MAGA SELF-DEFENCE CENTRE

18 holes. Members only. Tel: 952 695 209

At Hotel Pyr, Puerto Banús. Tel: 655 689 455

LAURO GOLF 18 HOLES

MANOLO SANTANA RACQUETS CLUB

Alhaurín de la Torre. Tel: 952 412 767

Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella. Tel: 952 778 580

LOS ARQUEROS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

MARBELLA GUN & COUNTRY CLUB

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 784 600

Monda. Tel: 952 112 161

LOS NARANJOS GOLF CLUB

MARBELLA SPORT

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 815 206

Km 171.5. San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

MARBELLA CLUB GOLF RESORT

MULTI SPORT

18 holes, Par 73. Tel: 952 113 239

Avda. Picasso 27. San Pedro. Tel: 952 782 801

MARBELLA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

NEW CONCEPT TRAINING

18 holes. Tel: 952 830 500

MIJAS GOLF

Monte Paraíso Country Club, Camino de Camoján s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 843

36 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 476 843

02 CENTRO WELLNESS

MIRAFLORES GOLF

Plaza del Mar. Marbella. Tel: 952 900 420

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 931 960

P-E SPORTS CLUB

MONTE MAYOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 18 holes. Tel: 952 113 088

Urb. Parcelas del Golf, Aloha Gardens, N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 357

PARADOR MÁLAGA DEL GOLF

QI SPORT

18 holes. Tel: 952 381 255

Urb. La Alzambra, Marbella. Tel: 952 907 090

REAL CLUB DE GOLF LAS BRISAS

SATURNIA REGNA

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 810 875

Marbella Tel: 952 761 475, Elviria. Tel: 952 834 835

REAL CLUB DE GOLF SOTOGRANDE

SEVEN STARS SCHOOL

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 785 014

SAN ROQUE CLUB

Tai Chi & yoga. Pasaje Estrecho, Estepona.

Tel: 952 923 055

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 613 030

SPORT CLUB RESERVA DEL HIGUERÓN

SANTA CLARA GOLF

Avda. del Higueron, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 565 761

18 holes. Tel: 952 850 111

SPORTCLUB ROUTE 66

SANTA MARIA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Ctra. Mijas, 1.5km. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 461 648

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 831 036

SPORTING CLUB ATALAYA PARK HOTEL

SOTOGRANDE CLUB DE GOLF

CN340, Km 168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 888 212

18 holes. Tel: 956 785 012

TICKET-TO-RIDE

VALDERRAMA

Cristamar, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 905 082

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 791 200. www.valderrama.com

VITALITY STUDIO

AUDITORIO PARQUE DE LA CONSTITUCIÓN Marbella. Tel: 952 825 035

CENTRO CULTURAL EL INGENIO Garcia Morato, s/n. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 968

MULTICINES ALFIL Avda. Camilo José Cela, s/n. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 800 056

ALCAIDESA LINKS

ALOHA GOLF CLUB

LA QUINTA GOLF

ALHAMAR GYM

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa. Tel: 952 934 477

CENTRO DE YOGA Y SALUD INTEGRAL Mijas Costa, Málaga. Tel: 951 773 523

Amapolas, s/n Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 916

Atalaya Park Hotel, Marbella. Tel: 609 571 920

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 902 362

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listings THE GUIDE .

*hotels

PARADOR DE RONDA

ESTEPONA

Málaga. Plaza de la Iglesia, 9am-1pm

Plaza de España, s/n. Ronda. Tel: 952 877 500

Avda. Juan Carlos II, 9am-2:30 pm

DON CARLOS RESORT, LEISURE & SPA

SENTIDOS HOTEL

ISTÁN

SATURDAY COÍN

CN340, Km 192. Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

CN340, Km185, Urb. Golf Rio Real s/n. Marbella.

Tel: 952 765 732

At the entrance to the town, 9am-2pm

C/ Urbano Pineda, 9am-1pm

FINCA CORTESIN HOTEL, GOLF & SPA

LA CALA

LA CALA

Crtra. Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

SUNSET BEACH CLUB

Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

GRAN HOTEL GVADALPÍN PUERTO BANÚS

Avda. del Sol, 5. Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 579 400

THURSDAY ALHAURÍN EL GRANDE

MARO

TAMISA GOLF HOTEL

By the Guardia Civil Offfices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

MIJAS COSTA

MÁLAGA

Las Lagunas, 9am-2pm

José Meliá s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 770 300

Camino Viejo de Coín. Km 3.3. Mijas Golf.

Tel: 952 585 988

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

TRH EL PARAÍSO

Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre.

9am-1pm

CN340, Km179. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

CN340, km 167, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 000

SAN PEDRO

Next to the bullring. Park near CN340 and walk upwards, 9am-1pm

Avda. Antonio Machado, 29. Benalmádena Costa. Tel: 952 443 240

HOTEL DIANA PARK

By the sports pavilion, in the Divina Pastora district, 9am-2pm

SUNDAY BENAHAVÍS

CN 340, km 168.5, Estepona. Tel: 952 887 659

TORRE DEL MAR

Arts & Crafts. La Ermita Park, from 10pm

KEMPINSKI HOTEL BAHÍA ESTEPONA

HOTEL PYR MARBELLA

Avda. Europa, 9am-1pm

ESTEPONA

CN340, Km159. Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

Avda. Rotary International, s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 353

TORREMOLINOS

Puerto Deportivo, 9am-1pm

LA CALA RESORT

El Calvario, near Town Hall, 9am-1pm

FUENGIROLA

La Cala de Mijas Tel: 952 669 000

NH SAN PEDRO

VÉLEZ MÁLAGA

Recinto Ferial, 9am-2:30pm

LOS MONTEROS SPA & GOLF RESORT 5*GL

Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

MÁLAGA

CN340, km 187, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 700

C/ Jerez 1, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 853 040

MARBELLA CLUB HOTEL

SISU BOUTIQUE HOTEL PUERTO BANÚS

SOTOGRANDE

CN340, Km 180. Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

CN 340, km 173, Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 906 105

FRIDAY BENALMÁDENA

*post offices

In the area between Tivoli World and the Plaza San Pedro, 9am-1pm

*tennis clubs

Arroyo El Rodeo, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella.

Tel: 952 899 700

GRAN MELIÁ DON PEPE

HOTEL TRITON

HOTEL VILLA PADIERNA CN340, Km 166, Exit Cancelada. Benahavís.

Tel: 952 889 150

Close to the Nerja Caves, 9am-1pm

Next to Rosaleda football stadium, 9am-2pm At the Marina, 9am-1pm

CALAHONDA

CALAHONDA

VINCCI SELECCIÓN ESTRELLA DEL MAR

C.C. El Zoco. Tel: 952 932 175

Calypso, 9am-2pm

AZTEC COUNTRY CLUB

CN340, km 190.5, Marbella. Tel: 951 053 970

EL CORTE INGLÉS

LAS CHAPAS

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa.

Tel: 952 934 477

Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

La Víbora, 9am-2pm

BEL AIR TENNIS AND PADDEL CLUB

ALANDA CLUB MARBELLA

FUENGIROLA

RINCÓN DE LA VICTORIA

Urb. Bel-Air, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 221

CN340 Km 192. Marbella. Tel: 952 902 537

Tel: 952 467 843

ALMENARA GOLF HOTEL & SPA

ESTEPONA

Avda. Almenara s/n. Sotogrande. Tel: 956 582 000

C/ Málaga 82–84. Tel: 952 800 537

AMANHAVÍS HOTEL & RESTAURANT

FUENGIROLA

C/ Pilar 3. Benahavís. Tel: 952 856 026

Pza. los Chinorros. Tel: 952 474 384

ATALAYA PARK HOTEL

MARBELLA

CN340, Km 168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 889 000

Jac. Benavente, 14. Tel: 952 772 898

BENABOLA APART HOTEL

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

Benabola. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 000

C/ Jazmines. Tel: 952 810 887

BLUE BAY BANÚS HOTEL

SAN PEDRO

CN340, Km173. N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 811 517

Pizarro, 41. Tel: 952 780 39

GOLF HOTEL GUADALMINA

*street markets

Guadalmina Baja. Marbella. Tel: 952 882 211

GRAN HOTEL BENAHAVIS Huerta de Rufino, Benahavís. Tel: 902 504 862

MONDAY BENAHAVÍS

H10 ANDALUCÍA PLAZA

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

CN340 Km 174. Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 812 000

MARBELLA

HM GRAN HOTEL COSTA DEL SOL

Fairground (Avda. de Juan Alameda), 9am-2:30pm

La Cala de Mijas, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 587 710

HOTEL AMÀRE MARBELLA BEACH CLUB

TUESDAY CHURRIANA

Avda. Severo Ochoa, 8, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 400

9am-1pm

HOTEL FUERTE ESTEPONA

FUENGIROLA

Avda. Vaquero Playa. Ctra A-7, Km 150, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 020

Recinto Ferial (close to the CN340, on the same side as the bullring), 9am-2:30pm

HOTEL FUERTE MARBELLA

MONDA

C/ El Fuerte s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 861 500

C/ Los Huertos, 8am-2:30pm

HOTEL IPV BEATRIZ PALACE & SPA

NERJA

CN340, Km 207. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 922 000

C/ Chaparil, 9am-1pm

HOTEL MELIÁ MARBELLA CN340, Km 175. Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 810 500

WEDNESDAY ALHAURÍN DE LA TORRE

HOTEL PLAYA BONITA

Avda. del Limón, 9am-2pm

CN340, Km 217. Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 442 840

BENAHAVÍS

HOTEL PRINCESS PLAYA

BENALMÁDENA COSTA

Paseo Marítimo. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 944

(Second hand items) Recinto Ferial, 10am-2pm

NH MARBELLA

CALAHONDA

C/ Conde Rudi, s/n. CN340, Km 178. Marbella.

Tel: 952 763 200

Calypso, 9am-2pm

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

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. THE GUIDE listings CLUB DEL SOL Tennis/paddle classes. Calahonda. Tel: 952 939 595

CLUB DE TENIS DON CARLOS Hotel Don Carlos, Avda. Zurita, CN340, km 192.

Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

CLUB INTERNACIONAL DE TENNIS Ctra. Cádiz, km 173. Marbella. Tel: 952 813 341

CLUB MADROÑAL Benahavís. Tel: 617 647 223

CLUB NUEVA ALCÁNTARA San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

HOFSAESS TENNIS ACADEMY Monte Elviria (next to German School).

Tel: 952 835 812

LEW HOADS TENNIS CLUB Ctra. de Mijas, Km 3,5. Mijas. Tel: 952 474 858

MANOLO SANTANA RACQUETS CLUB Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella. Tel: 952 778 580

MARBELLA HILL TENNIS CLUB Avda. El Fuerte, Marbella. Tel: 659 677 539

MARBELLA PLAYA TENIS CN340, km 189, Marbella. Tel: 657 619 630

MIRAFLORES TENNIS CLUB Urb. Miraflores, Km 199. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 932 006

PUENTE ROMANO TENNIS CLUB Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

ROYAL TENNIS CLUB MARBELLA El Rosario, Marbella. Tel: 952 837 651

SPORT CLUB RESERVA DEL HIGUERÓN Avda. del Higueron, Benalmádena.

Tel: 952 565 761

*tourist offices Benahavís Tel: 952 855 500 Benalmádena Tel: 952 442 494 Estepona Tel: 952 802 002 Fuengirola Tel: 952 467 625 Gibraltar Tourist Board Tel: 956 774 950 Marbella Tel: 952 822 818 Málaga Tel: 952 213 445 / 952 216 061 Mijas Tel: 952 485 900 Ronda Tel: 952 871 272 San Pedro Tel: 952 785 252 Tarifa Tel: 956 680 993 Torremolinos Tel: 952 381 578

*train

Customer assistance T: 952 128 267 General Info T: 902 240 202 Reservations T: 902 240 202 Ave T: 952 128 079

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pets THE GUIDE .

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

DOG OWNERSHIP

LINKED TO LOWER MORTALITY RATE

Research has consistently shown that dogs can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, but a new study conducted at Uppsala University has revealed that dog owners have a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease or other causes. The findings are particularly important because of the scale of the study: researchers relied on national registries of over 3.4 million Swedes aged 40 to 80, following them up for a total period of 12 years.

Those who had dogs tended to be fitter, more vital and happier, indicating the compelling reasons why dogs and human beings have created powerful bonds for thousands of years.

WHAT TYPE OF BED DO OLDER PETS NEED?

If you’re tired of continually buying new beds for your pet, it might be time to invest in a quality bed with a zip covering that can easily be removed and washed. If your pet is aged eight or over, they could very well benefit from an orthopedic dog bed, specifically developed to provide maximum support for their joints thanks to the use of memory foam, which will not flatten when sat upon. While there are many beds to choose from, one tried-andtested product is the Karlie Flamingo, which has a beautiful memory foam interior and a removeable, washable exterior. i Available on www.miscota.es and other online pet stores.

DO DOGS DISTURB YOUR SLEEP? Pet owners who allow their pooch to sleep on the bed may be ‘breaking hygiene rules’, yet a new study from Mayo Clinic has revealed that sleeping alongside Fido can actually improve your sleep patterns! The study involved 40 healthy adults without sleep disorders, as well as their dogs. For seven nights, the humans wore accelerometres, as did their dogs, to track sleep quality.

Results showed that “Many people actually find comfort and a sense of security from sleeping alongside their pets… many pet owners are away from their pets for much of the day, so they want to maximise their time with them when they are at home.” If you do allow your dog onto the bed and sofa, just make sure to steam clean regularly and keep your dog protected against ticks and fleas.

DOGS NOT STRESSED BY

ANIMAL THERAPY

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) involves the use of specific animals (including dogs and horses) to help people with a wide variety of problems, including anxiety, depression, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). If you’ve ever wondered if AAT was harmful to pets, however, your question has just been answered by researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna, who investigated how therapy dogs feel within an AAT setting. The study fortunately shows that dogs do not feel any more stress during therapy than they do in their leisure time. The key to success is voluntary involvement and self-determinism of the dogs. Some dogs take to AAT like a duck to water, indicating they are a perfect fit for the task.

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what’s on...

. THE GUIDE what’s on

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Until February 18 CHILLOUT SUNDAYS – CABOPINO

Trendy Cabopino restaurant, Alberts, presents Sundays at Alberts, featuring live singing by Virginia Alexandre, finalist in the very first edition of the Spanish version of The Voice (La Voz). To book a table, Tel: 952 836 886. contact@alberts-cabopino.com

Until September 16 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

NEW AND REGULAR EVENTS

Weekly on different days WALKING FOOTBALL – 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 and Friday PAINTING CLASSES – MARBELLA

Every first Wednesday of the month CULTURE AND COCKTAIL – MARBELLA

PILATES AND YOGA – BENAHAVÍS

Every Thursday NETWORKING – 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

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

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

© Javier Naval

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

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

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

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

Tuesday February 13

MERSEY BEATLES – MÁLAGA The Mersey Beatles are one of the world’s most renowned Beatles tribute acts. Catch them at the Teatro Cervantes this month. www.teatrocervantes.com

Thursday February 8 to Sunday February 11

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT – MÁLAGA

This is one of the coolest musicals of all time: the Aussie classic, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Catch all the colour, magic, and music at the Teatro Cervantes de Málaga. www.teatrocervantes.com

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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.

Thursday February 1 to Sunday February 4 ROCKABILLY FEST – TORREMOLINOS

The 24th Rockin’ Race Jamboree Festival will be taking place in Torremolinos, featuring 1960s star CHRIS MONTEZ (of Let’s Dance fame). There are also free performances in the Plaza de la Nogalera on the 3rd (12pm to 2:45pm); and the Plaza del Remo on the 4th (12pm to 1:45pm). This annual get together usually attracts very big audiences and over 30 bands are playing live.

For a full programme of events, www.rockinrace.com

Friday February 2 TALENT SHOW – MARBELLA

IES Profesor Pablo del Saz presents a talent show to raise funds for AMPILE (the Málaga Leukemia Association) from 11:45am to 1:45pm at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella. For tickets, www.marbellacongresos.com

Friday February 2 to March 30 THE ARTS SOCIETY EXHIBITION – CALAHONDA

The Arts Society will be presenting an exhibition at Atlantis PMR, Centro Comercial Los Olivos, Calahonda.

Visitors are welcome to view works at Atlantis PMR by appointment only. For further information, contact Teresa on Tel: 952 933 870.

Sunday February 4 KIDS THEATRE – MARBELLA

El Centro Dramático Andaluz presents El Reino de las Hadas at 6pm at the Placaio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella. For tickets, www.marbellacongresos.com

Tuesday February 6 CONCERT FOR CUDECA – BENALMÁDENA

Irureta at the Castillo Bil-Bil. Proceeds will go to Cancer hospice, Cudeca. www.cudeca.org

Thursday February 8 BODY FIT WEEKEND – MARBELLA

The Six Senses Spa at the Puente Romano presents Body: Fit Weekend Marbella Fitness Retreat, designed to kickstart your fitness routine. Further information, www.puenteromano.com

Tuesday February 13 to May 13 AND FELLINI DREAMED OF PICASSO – MÁLAGA

This unique exhibition brings a small selection of drawings, films, photographs and other documents belonging to famed Italian director, Federico Fellini, featuring characters and images he had dreamed of involving Pablo Picasso.

At the Museo Picasso Málaga. www. museopicassomalaga.org

Wednesday February 14 VALENTINE’S DAY

Celebrate this day with that special someone.

Enjoy a concert by guitarrist, Humberto Buenaventura and singer Carolina

Friday February 16 ART EXHIBITION – SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA

Local charity, ASPANDEM, will be presenting an exhibition of works created by beneficiaries of the charity, at Residencia El Ingenio, adjacent to the Bulevar de San Pedro de Alcántara, from 10am onwards. Further information, www.aspandem.org

Saturday February 17 MOSCOW-BUENOS AIRES CLASSICAL MUSIC – MARBELLA Natalia Kuchaeva and Jorge Lechado will be playing the piano at Les Roches Marbella at 7pm. The programme includes music by Alexander Borodin, Dmitri Shostakóvich, Carlos Guastavino, and Astor Piazzolla.

For tickets, call Tel: 689 000 944. www.musicaconencanto.org

Monday February 26 to Friday March 1 ART WORKSHOP FOR KIDS – MÁLAGA Semana Blanca (a week in February in which kids are off school) will be funner than ever for those aged four to 15, thanks to a workshop called Sueños de Cine, carried out at the Museo Picasso Málaga. To sign up, visit www.museopicassomalaga.org

ABBA REUNION CONCERTS If you love Dancing Queen, Chiquitita and other iconic ABBA tunes, don’t miss out on live performances by one of the world’s top tribute acts, presented by Big M Promotions. Dates are as follows:

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14: Felipe VI Auditorium, Estepona THURSDAY FEBRUARY 15: Salón del Mar, Torre del Mar FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16: Moonlight Bar, Sunset Beach Club, Benalmádena SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17: Sunborn Luxury Yacht, Gibraltar SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18: Avanto Restaurant, La Cala de Mijas For tickets, www.ticketsource.eu/bigmpromotions

Friday February 23

TANGO – NERJA Pasión Tango is a show featuring song, poetry and dance, to be held at the Centro Cultural Villa de Nerja. Featuring classic songs such as Volver, El Día que me Quieras and La Cumparsita, as well as works by Astor Piazzolla. For tickets, www.mientrada.net

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www.russellgrant.com

. THE GUIDE stars

Russell Grant’s

Monthly Horoscope February 2018

AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) You’ll have no trouble attracting admirers this Valentine’s Day. If you’re single, go on a date with someone who challenges your assumptions. Lively, spirited debates make you excited about the future. At long last, you’ve met someone who engages both your mind and body. Are you already in a relationship? Your amour will have thrilling news. Go out and celebrate a publishing venture or favourable publicity. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will prompt you to revamp your appearance. Getting a different hairstyle, undergoing a cosmetic procedure or overhauling your wardrobe will be lots of fun.

Everyone will treat you differently as a result of this change. Doors that were once closed to you will suddenly fly open. Don’t be surprised if you’re able to get a date with an elusive newcomer and then be unexpectedly able to move forward on a whole host of fronts from love and romance to work and finance.

Are you already in a relationship? Your amour will have thrilling news.

Go out and celebrate a publishing venture or favourable publicity

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ARIES [21 MAR - 20 APR]

A friendly relationship could turn romantic on Valentine’s Day when someone you’ve known for years confesses a crush on you. This could be the beginning of a beautiful partnership. MidFebruary could mark big changes on the social front for you, thanks to a Solar Eclipse on the 15th. It’s possible you will gain admission to an exclusive society.

Rubbing elbows with exceptionally talented people will be stimulating. This could be your chance to acquire the cutting edge skills you need to succeed in a hitech field. The second half the month should be quiet, calm and reflective. Take this opportunity to catch up on your reading, take a few naps and commune with nature. Connecting with your spiritual side can help you deal with some old traumas that you experienced years ago. Now you have gained more insight, wisdom and perspective, you can overcome this deep pain. Stop letting others take control over your life.

TAURUS [21 APR - 21 MAY]

Don’t turn down an invitation to attend a glamorous Valentine’s Day party. If you’re single, you’ll have your choice of admirers. Are you already in a serious relationship? Your partner will be proud to show you off. Wear something eye catching that enhances your natural good looks. Basking in the spotlight could be the prelude to a passionate evening. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse marks an exciting career opportunity.

Working with a team of pioneers will make you more adventurous. Instead of sticking to tried and trusted methods, you’ll be more willing to experiment with bold ideas. The later part of February will find you spending quality time with friends. Talking with other like-minded innovative individuals will inspire you to launch a creative project of your own. Be open to the helpful feedback you receive from similarly imaginative people. Their advice will help you turn some good work into an impressive masterpiece.

GEMINI [22 MAY - 21 JUN]

You’ll have a lovely Valentine’s Day, whether single or attached. If you’re footloose and fancy free, go out and have a good time with friends.

Celebrating the love in your life will lift your spirits and get your creative juices flowing. Are you in a relationship?

Your amour will encourage you to go after a cherished dream. Take their advice; their support will catapult you to success. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could find you taking a trip that changes the course of your life. Alternatively, a publishing or broadcasting venture could bring you fame and acclaim. If you have a chance to earn an advanced degree, go for it. Your employer could cover the cost of your tuition. February’s final days may find you basking in the spotlight. Those you live and work with will be impressed with your artistic ability. Assuming leadership of a creative department will be rewarding. Your kind and caring approach brings out the best in the team.

CANCER [22 JUN - 23 JUL]

Valentine’s Day presents a wonderful opportunity to get up close and personal with your amour. There’s a good chance you’ll get engaged or exchange vows at this magical time. If you’ve already made a commitment, you may decide to undergo a radical lifestyle change together. Moving to another country or starting a business together are among the possibilities. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could mark a handsome windfall from an insurance policy, legal settlement or inheritance. Use this money to achieve

the professional independence you’ve always wanted.

As February draws to a close, you’ll yearn to expand your horizons. Going on an overseas trip, enrolling in an advanced course or gaining expert knowledge will lift your spirits. As a general rule, you prefer familiar vistas and comforting routines. That will change this month, when an urge for adventure prompts you to do something totally out of character.

LEO [24 JUL - 23 AUG]

A wildly romantic Valentine’s Day is on the cards for you. If you’re dating someone special, there’s a good chance you’ll get engaged or married. Are you single? You could meet someone special at a religious, cultural or educational event. Keep your eyes open for someone who marches to the beat of their own drum.

On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse marks an exciting turning point in a partnership. This is a great time to tie the knot or enter into a business agreement. The terms of this union will be unconventional, which helps emphasise your star power. The second half of February makes your love life sizzle with excitement. It will be difficult to contain your passion for someone who makes their entry into your world. If you’re in a serious relationship, your partner could get a windfall that allows you to travel in style together. Visit a city that is famous for its glamour and intrigue.

VIRGO [24 AUG - 23 SEPT]

You’ll be looking especially nice on Valentine’s Day. Don’t be surprised when your amour finds it impossible to keep their hands off you. Are you single? You could meet someone special through your job. Keep your eyes open for someone with a friendly demeanour who is more interested in ideas than appearances. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will inspire you to adopt a new health regime. Changing your diet, taking more exercise and getting more sleep will make you feel years younger. It will also increase your productivity and enhance your natural good looks. The second half of February marks a dramatic improvement in your love life. Getting engaged or married is a distinct possibility. If you are already in a serious relationship, your amour could get a raise. Their additional income means good news for you. Book a luxury holiday you’ve both wanted to take for years.

LIBRA [24 SEPT - 23 OCT]

Valentine’s Day will be especially romantic for you. Whether you’re single or attached, you’re sure to have a lovely time with someone who greatly admires you. If you’ve had difficulty meeting interesting people, that could change after accepting an online request for a date. Do you have a partner? Your amour will have an exciting announcement that changes the course of your life together. Toast to your mutual good fortune. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could bring surprising news of an engagement, marriage or pregnancy. Alternatively, it could mean you finally get the favourable publicity you deserve for your artwork. The second half of February finds you doing what you love and loving what you do. If you’ve been unemployed, you’ll be offered a rewarding job. Not only will you enjoy your responsibilities, but you’ll feel a deep affinity for your colleagues. One or two of them will become lifelong friends.

SCORPIO [24 OCT - 22 NOV]

Treat yourself like royalty on Valentine’s Day. Getting a spa treatment, splashing out on creature comforts and enjoying a gourmet meal will make this one of the happiest days of the year. This is a golden opportunity to break out of a rut. When you treat

yourself well, others will do the same. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse could mark an unexpected change in your home life. Moving to another neighbourhood, operating a business out of your home and living out of a suitcase are among the possibilities. There’s also a chance you could welcome a child or elderly relative into your home.

Any addition to your household is destined to enhance it in a wonderful way. The final days of February will be highly romantic. If you’ve developed a crush on someone, ask them on a date. Are you dating someone seriously? You could get engaged or married. Single?

You won’t be for long.

SAGITTARIUS (23 NOV - 21 DEC)

Valentine’s Day will be fun and flirtatious. Going to a lively nightclub will put you in the mood for love. You’ll enjoy exchanging witty remarks with an intelligent, intriguing newcomer. Are you single? You’ll meet someone special on a group outing with friends.

Play hard to get with someone who tries catching your eye. Being pursued is good for your ego. A Solar Eclipse on the 15th marks a big change in your daily routine.

Having more time for creative hobbies and sports will make your eyes sparkle with excitement. It will be such a relief to escape a demanding schedule that didn’t leave any room for fun. Late February invites you to take care of domestic matters. Finding a new place to live or making space for a relative or roommate are among the possibilities. Don’t be surprised when your restless energy eases with the approach of March.

Staying home will actually be pleasurable.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC - 20 JAN]

Don’t be surprised when this Valentine’s Day is especially fulfilling. Someone who understands your deep desire to have a vibrant family life will make your dream come true. If you’re happy and single, take this opportunity to throw a festive party for friends. Bringing together your nearest and dearest will give everyone a much needed lift. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will attract an unexpected moneymaking opportunity. Any hi-tech venture is destined to put more money in your bank account. If you’ve ever wanted to launch your own business, this would be an ideal time to so, as you’ll attract enthusiastic investors. The second half of February finds you reading, studying and learning.

Expanding your knowledge will be a labour of love.

It’s easy to absorb information when you’re learning about a fascinating subject. A supportive teacher will encourage you to develop your creative skills. Take their advice.

PISCES [20 FEB - 20 MAR]

Instead of having a lavish Valentine’s Day at a public place, you will prefer a candlelit dinner for two at a quiet little restaurant. Don’t be surprised if your amour gives you a lavish token of their affection. Are you single? You could meet someone special at a charitable organisation or spiritual group. Keep your eyes open for someone who is unusual and independent. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th is ideal for listening to your intuition. If you’re unsure which direction to take, sneak off to a private hideaway and turn your attention inward. A small, assured voice will tell you what to do. It’s also wise to pay careful attention to your dreams during the middle of February; they are urging you to take an untried path.

Your charisma will be at an all-time high during the second half of the month. Make a sales pitch, ask for a date or request a favour.

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. THE GUIDE family

WORDS JOFFREY KING

WHY DO TEENS

TAKE RISKS? A

s a teen who is into adventure sports such as mountain biking, canyoning and trekking, I often wonder why I am more daring than my older brother (who is 26) and my parents. Dad recently pulled out pictures of when he used to do Motocross, and I wonder how he suddenly parted ways with his maverick side and became a Volvo driver.

As I love science and hope to study Engineering or Veterinary Science when I graduate from school, I recently researched into precisely this subject – why teens generally take more risks than adults.

I was surprised to find that teens have been getting a bad rap for the wrong reasons.

In the past, it was thought that our impulsive behaviour could be attributed to “slow development of the prefrontal cortex, and its weak connection with brain reward regions.” In fact, a new study published in the journal Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, shows that scientists had it all wrong all

these years.

The researchers found that we often behave impulsively, not because of our ‘raging hormones’, but rather because we have a deep desire to learn about the world. They found that while it is true that we love new and exciting experiences, those of us who show this tendency strongly are not actually more likely to suffer from issues like substance abuse or gambling addiction later in life, as was initially thought.

The scientists found that, when we are adolescents our dopamine (feel good neurotransmitter) levels rise, which actually enhances our ability to learn more from new experiences. The researchers noted that we don’t have a lack of control; just a deep desire to explore the world around us.

This is why in our teen years, we are so excited to try things out for the first time, including learning to ride a motorbike, or how to drive, or even biking down mountains at breakneck speed (like I do).

They also stated that the media tends to exaggerate the extent to which our behaviour can get us into trouble. They wrote: “For the vast majority of adolescents, this period of development passees without substance dependence, STDs, pregnancy, homicide, depression, suicide, or death due to car crashes.”

Teens who do get caught up in these big issues tend to have higher rates of injuries and illness from being too impulsive.

Usually, impulsivity can be identified at age four or five.

It is fascinating to see that risk taking can be viewed as something vital to the learning process, whenever it does not go beyond certain limits. By jumping into experiences, we can prepare ourselves for adult life, gaining vital skills that will stand us in good stead when we are alone.

As s teen myself, I can only say that having parents that encourage my independence is something I appreciate more than words can say. Mum

and Dad have never stopped me from going out into the mountains, usually with friends, so long as I wore protective gear (a word to my classmate, Bill – your nylon Nacho Libre mask does not count as ‘protection’). I am glad there are no restrictions, as during exam time and after slogging at homework for over an hour a day (sometimes more than two hours), I feel the need for speed… and need to release a little adrenalin along my favourite mountain tracks.

Because I don’t feel like I have to hide anything from my parents, it makes it easier to let them know about what I get up to and where I am. It feels good to be treated like the young almost-adult I am. “Work hard, play hard,” is our motto at home.

That is, so long as I comply with my school obligations, my parents always try to ensure that in my free time, I do what sets my soul on fire… in this case, it happens to be the fragrant pines, toasty sun and adrenaline charged downhill rides, but it might as well be Uncharted. e

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