Essential Magazine July 2016

N º 203 - JULY 2016

HOLIDAY

ROCHE BOBOIS

SUMMER COLLECTION

MAJESTIC

DANCE AWAY ARCHITECTURAL HARMONY THE NEW LEXUS LC500 IN LA LA LAND TRENDS OF THE SEAS

STARLITE ART HOTLIST SHINES BRIGHT ATTACK!

essential magazine® marbella

I S S U E 2 0 3 • J U LY 2 0 1 6

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

essential

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

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COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

MARBELLA

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Built: 1,117 m² Plot: 4,237 m² Price: € 6,750,000

LA ZAGALETA Brand-new modern villa within this exclusive country club. Built to the highest standards. Spacious rooms throughout including 5 en-suite bedrooms, cinema room, spa, and guest apartment. Extensive terraces, landscaped garden, infinity pool, hot tub and gazebo. Ideal for entertaining. Unbeatable panoramic views. Ref. ES6648

Built: 213 m² Terrace: 104 m² Price: € 1,995,000

PUENTE ROMANO 2nd line beach duplex penthouse in the Persian Gardens. 3-bedrooms. Sea views. Next to the famous 5-star hotel. Ref. ES8773

Built: 341 m² Plot: 2,000 m² Price: € 1,395,000

SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTÁRA Charming

Built: 189 m² including terrace Price: € 895,000

PUERTO BANÚS Lovely, totally refurbished 3-bedroom apartment. Views to the marina, beach & La Concha. Superb rental potential. Ref. ES9153

Built: 52 m² Terrace: 8 m² Price: € 630,000

PUENTE ROMANO HOTEL Beachside

An International Associate of Savills

south-facing 5-bedroom villa situated between San Pedro and Guadalmina. Ref. ES9130

penthouse-studio. Sea views. All services/facilities of the hotel available. Great rental potential. Ref. ES9289

Ag So en le cy Enclosed: 805 m² Plot: 3,593 m² Price: € 5,975,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA A warm, wonderful and very private 5-bedroom mansion with sea views in one of the most

desirable neighborhoods in Marbella. Easy walking distance to Puerto Banús. Boasting excellent, modern features within an elegant and sophisticated style. Surrounded by a large mature garden with pool and possibility of building another villa or a guest house on second plot! Ref. ES8990

Regulated by RICS

Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club Hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

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Issue 203 • July 2016

S T A F F PUBLISHER AND DIRECTOR

YEARS

GENERAL MANAGER ASSOCIATE EDITOR PRODUCTION MANAGER

U ANNIVERSARY U

SALES SUPPORT ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR DESIGN & LAYOUT

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

PRINTING DEPÓSITO LEGAL

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com ANDREA BÖJTI sales@essentialmagazine.com MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com 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, RIK FOXX, RICARDO GALEOTE, RUSSELL GRANT, PHIL HARRIS, ALI PARANDEH, TONY WHITNEY, DAVID WISHART, KEVIN WOODFORD

JIMÉNEZ GODOY A. GRÁFICAS, MURCIA D.L. MA-512-99

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

ESSENTIAL MARBELLA MAGAZINE

@ESSENTIALEDITOR

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

affiliated to:

CONDITIONS

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

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

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

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PROPERTY DEVELOPERS & ADVISORS · MARBELLA CLUB ·

We are currently building more than 55 quality homes in prime locations such as Nueva Andalucia, La Quinta and The Golden Mile.

With a dedicated and professional team of architects, project managers and advisors we aim to be a safe and trustworthy partner for our clients. Whether you are looking for a holiday home or an investment property, we can help you.

One of our headline projects, Los Olivos Marbella, consisting of 18 luxury villas within a 24h gated community has been a great success. With only 4 units remaining, we urge you to come and visit our new Show Villa and see for yourself. Prices from ¤ 1.795.000.

Find all our projects on www.solvillacollection.com Please come by and meet us at our sales office in the Marbella Club Hotel above the MC Café, or at our development office in Centro Expo. We look forward to meeting you.

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

·O

SHOW HOUSE IS NOW READY! Prices from ¤ 1.795.000

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Marbella Club

A stylish, newly built villa situated in one of Europe’s most exclusive addresses, the legendary Marbella Club Hotel, representing the epitome of luxury and chic. Just 100 meters from the beach, this villa is a rare opportunity in a very exclusive area. Unifying classic elegance and contemporary style, it offers superb indoor-outdoor living. Well distributed and stylishly decorated, this property encompasses very

ample interiors: Open plan living room/dining room; modern fitted kitchen with breakfast corner; spacious terraces and porches for outdoor entertaining, with stunning views across the grounds to the Mediterranean. It features 6 en-suite bedrooms; a Spa and gym area; under-floor heating throughout. 7 beds, 7 baths. Built 1.019 m2, plot 1.200 m2.

E&V ID: W-022EKC. Price: 7.900.000 €.

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

Rare opportunity to purchase a villa on the Golden Mile in the prestigious grounds of the Puente Romano hotel resort, which was recently elected as the Best Resort by the renowned CondĂŠ Nast Traveler. Built in 2012, this exquisite villa offers luxury living just meters from the beach. Upon entering through the hotel grounds into a nice driveway leading to the beautiful villa with its high ceiling entrance, large, open

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Puente Romano

plan reception rooms that open onto a spectacularly large L shaped covered terrace overlooking the pool area. An exquisite Italian style, sculpted garden is found just beyond the terrace. The villa offers 4 large suites, study and a family lounge, all opening onto terraces, some with lovely sea views. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 813 m2, plot 1.722 m2.

E&V ID: W-0239P1. P.O.A.

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

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Sierra Blanca

Offering the most spectacular uninterrupted views over the whole coastline, this majestic villa is certainly one of the most impressive and beautiful homes in Sierra Blanca. Situated on a double plot of 4.068 m2, in the upper part of this exclusive community, built with exquisite materials, the property is a masterpiece of timeless design and elegance.

A fantastic entrance hall, beautifully decorated reception rooms, large

bedroom suites, separate guest apartment. Indoor swimming pool, sauna, bodega and bar. The villa itself is built on one plot surrounded by magnificent gardens, the property includes another plot of approximately 2000 m2 for an additional garden, outdoor pool, another villa or guest house. 6 beds, 6 baths. Built 1.596 m2, plot 4.068 m2.

E&V ID: W-022O7T. Price: 8.500.000 â‚Ź

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

What a beautiful beach house! A stunning, very chic contemporary newly built villa situated on one of the most prestigious and desirable beach resorts in Spain, in the legendary Los Monteros. This spectacular residence is close to the beach and incorporates style and luxury living with airy and bright open spaces, high quality materials and the latest modern features. Beautiful open plan reception rooms with fireplace and

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Los Monteros

study, all with glass walls opening onto a piazza overlooking the beautiful swimming pool area. The property comprises 3 spacious en-suite bedrooms, fantastically decorated with stylish bathrooms. Under-floor heating, electric shutters and music system are some of the extra features in this must see beach property. 4 beds, 3 baths. Built 300 m2, plot 1.000 m2.

E&V ID: W-0256KG. Price: 2.150.000 €.

Office Marbella: 952 83 20 40 · www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

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contents the trend Cinema 34

The Future of Cinema 36

Music News 38

Summer Reading 42

What’s Up with WhatsApp? 44 The New Lexus LC500 46

the focus Local Architects Discuss Current Trends 52 Art Marbella Fair 64 Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas 70 Grand New Musical La La Land 76

132 Virginie French Gourmet and Table Décor 134 Entrepreneurship: Customer Service 136 Brexit

138 The Vibe

150 Starlite Festival 2016

the leisure 152 2016’s Holiday Hotlist 158 Mediterranean Cruising at a Discount 160 New Hotel Iberostar Costa del Sol 162 Dining in Style in Marbella’s Old Town

Chris Clover’s Perspective on Marbella Property 78

the gourmet

DM Properties Market Report 2016 82

173 Besaya Beach

the style Roche Bobois Summer Collection 86 Blackshaw Interior Design Retail Projects 94 Jungle Fever Hot Summer Wear 96 Fashion News 108

the spa Summer Skin and Hair 112

175 Ocean Club Cocktail Magic 176 Food News 178 Kevin Woodford’s Dublin 180 Pía Ninci of Messina 182 Tantalising Chardonnay 184 Wine: New Releases

the guide 186 Listings

Beauty News 114

195 Pet News

Summer Health Tips 116

196 What’s On

Health News 118 Dr. Panno – Hair Transplant Specialist 120

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the pro

198 Stars for July 200 Family Fun

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Muelle Ribera, M28 Puerto BanĂşs Tel. 952 90 70 10 - idealjoyeros.com

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El Madroñal, Benahavís

5 Beds 4 Baths 506 m2 Built 9.357 m2 Plot Price: 2.390.000 € Ref: DM3516

Very private villa in gated community with 24h security, 15min drive to Puerto Banus. Extensive hilltop plot with panoramic views. Spacious living areas. Guest apartment. Great investment potential for renovation and extension.

Rio Verde Playa, Marbella Golden Mile

Nagüeles, Marbella Golden Mile

200m to beach

Duplex Penthouse 3 Beds 3 Baths 253 m2 Built 59 m2 Terrace

Ref: DM3812

5 Beds 5 Baths 327 m2 Built 924 m2 Plot

Price: 2.950.000 €

Ref: DM3810

Price: 1.550.000 €

Puerto Banús

Sierra Blanca, Marbella Golden Mile

Apartment. 24h security. Sea views 4 Beds 4 Baths 222 m2 Built

Apartment. Gated. 24h sec. 3 Beds 2 Baths 205 m2 Built 80 m2 Terrace

Ref: DM2959-01

Price: 1.350.000 €

Over 417 Offices in 58 Countries

Ref: DM3764

Price: 620.000 €

Av. Cánovas del Castillo, 4 29601 Marbella, Málaga, Spain

Sierra Blanca, Marbella Golden Mile

7 Beds 7 Baths 2.000 m2 Built 3.118 m2 Plot

Extraordinary architectural jewel in the most sought after location, offering panoramic sea views and spacious living areas.Brand new home built to the highest standards with the ultimate materials, technology and amenities.

La Zagaleta, Benahavis

Ref: DM3198-02

5 Beds 5 Baths 739 m2 Built 5.520 m2 Plot

Andalusian-style home with open views over the golf and valley. Built with great attention to detail, spacious suites in all three levels, guest accommodation, sauna and extensive landscaped garden with heated swimming pool.

Tel: 952 765 138 info@dmproperties.com

Price: 10.000.000 â‚Ź

Price on application Ref: DM3656

DMproperties.com

D words BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

Sizzling

S

summer

ummer is the best time to relax with friends and family and to help you get into the frame, we bring you a lifestyle issue packed with a plethora of cool content.

We preview Art Marbella, Marbella’s most important art fair, at the Palacio de Congresos in Marbella from July 29, and bring you information on the many live concerts you can look forward to this month.

Construction is apace once again on the Coast and we talk with a number of top architects about the current trends that are in vogue. Chris Clover, CEO of Panorama, Marbella’s longest-established real estate agency, gives us his perspective on Marbella Property, and we summarise DM Properties’ current annual Market Report.

Elsewhere, we feature 2016’s hot holiday destinations, hop aboard the huge Harmony of the Seas, recently launched by Royal Caribbean, marvel at the colourful Summer Collection from Roche Bobois, and experience excitement within the luxury interior of the sleek new Lexus LC500.

One of life’s other greatest pleasures, dining out, is also high on everyone’s agenda at this time of year so don’t miss our highlighted dining destinations within the quaint confines of Marbella’s Old Town and our suggestions for fine wines to accompany excellent food.

Put yourself in the picture with

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- your Marbella magazine!

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HORTENSIA COLLECTION • AUBE ROSÉE RING

L’ART DE LA JOAILLERIE DEPUIS 1780

Muelle Ribera M28 Puerto Banús Tel. 952 90 70 10 - www.idealjoyeros.com

GUESS T2-4 Essential Marbella Spa Lug.indd 1

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C.C. LA CAÑADA MARBELLA

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C.C.MIRAMAR FUENGIROLA

MUELLE RIBERA 53 PUERTO BANÚS

20/06/16 14:03

You only live once,

Beachfront Golden Mile: Rare opportunity to purchase one of the last spectacular frontline plots in the best location of Marbella. Large plot with a wide beach frontage and opportunity to build up to 3 large villas. Close to the award winning Puente Romano Resort. Plot: 4.575 m2.

E&V ID: W-025H09. Price: 18.000.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Frontline Golf La Quinta: Situated directly on the golf course, a spectacular modern villa beautifully decorated and ready to move in.

Highest qualities throughout. 4 beds, 4 baths. Built 390 m2, plot 1.000 m2.

E&V ID: W-008SOS. Price: 1.595.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Beachfront Golden Mile: Fantastically priced villa, renovated to highest standards, beautifully decorated. Set in a gated beachfront community directly on the beach. 3 beds, 4 baths. Built 201 m2, plot 200 m2.

E&V ID: W-0259SZ. Price: 2.500.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Frontline Puerto Banús: Exclusive, modern and contemporary South-facing apartment in the heart of Puerto Banús Marina. High qualities throughout! 2 beds, 1 bath. Living area 80 m2, terrace 8 m2.

E&V ID: W-025JXO. Price: 749.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Puente Romano: Stylish penthouse, recently renovated and decorated to the highest standards. Just minutes to the beach, in the famous 5-star Beach & Spa Resort. 2 beds, 2 baths. Living area 117 m2, terrace 24 m2.

E&V ID: W-024L96. Price: 1.000.000 €. 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!

Beachfront Los Monteros: There is currently no comparable beachfront property for sale. Timeless and sophisticated style on a very generous plot set in the most prestigious beach resort. Indoor pool, sauna, hamam, gym, home cinema. 7 beds, 8 baths. Built 1.440 m2, plot 3.600 m2.

E&V ID: W-0207K1. 17.000.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

La Quinta: Contemporary luxury villa with impressive views to the mountains, golf valley and the sea in the best area of La Quinta.

Built to highest standards. 5 beds, 4 baths. Built 350 m2, plot 720 m2.

E&V ID: W-024TB9. Price: 1.290.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Golden Mile: Spectacular modern villa in a gated community with 24 hours security offering luxury lifestyle and the latest features just minutes from the beach. 4 beds, 4 baths. Built 521 m2, plot 1.305 m2.

E&V ID: W-025N3U. Price: 2.600.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Beachfront El Rosario: Large frontline beach duplex penthouse with direct beach access. Underfloor heating and 24 h concierge service. 3 beds, 4 baths. Living area 215 m2, terrace 60 m2.

E&V ID: W-01OML1. Price: 1.750.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Beachfront Rio Real: The most beautiful beachfront apartment.

Very spacious and marvellously decorated to the highest standards. 5 beds, 6 baths. Living area 293 m2, terrace 81 m2.

E&V ID: W-0218A0. Price: 1.490.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

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

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w the trend READING MUSIC FILMS GADGETS MOTORING TRENDS

34 Cinema 36

The Future of Cinema

38

Music News

42

Summer Reading

44

What’s Up with WhatsApp?

46

The New Lexus LC500

Summer is here and we can help you make it the best one of your life. Enjoy our cinematic and concert suggestions, catch up on exciting reads and if cars are more your thing, rev up in the new Lexus LC500.

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w THE TREND cinema

WORDS MA RISA CUTIL

e BLOCKBUSTER OF

LAS

THE MONTH

» GENRE Adventure yas (Dark City) » DIRECTOR Alex Pro aites, Gerard Butler, Thw » ACTORS Brenton Courtney Eaton Nicolaj Coster-Waldau,

ng hero, ce in ancient Egypt; you This adventure takes pla rney jou s ilou per a on ks embar Bek (Brenton Thwaites) to er ord In e. rescue his true lov to save humanity and rus Ho d, Go ul erf pow help of succeed, he needs the rkness, to battle Set (God of Da (NIcolaj Coster-Waldau) one of thr the d rpe usu ), who has played by Gerard Butler ts of tes l era st pass through sev Egypt. Men and Gods mu tle. bat nal fi the e fac ore they bravery and sacrifice bef

Gods of Egypt

» GENRE Drama/Action/Crime » DIRECTOR Ariel Vromen (The Iceman) » ACTORS Ryan Reynolds, Gal Gadot, Alice Eve, Gary Oldman, Kevin Costner

Criminal

In one last, desperate attempt at disrupting a dangerous criminal scheme, the CIA implants the memories, secrets and abilities of a dead agent into an unpredictable criminal, with the hope that that he can carry out a mission nobody else can be trusted with.

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Lorene Scafaria » ACTORS Susan Sarandon, Rose Byrne, J.K. Simmons

The Meddler

The talented Susan Sarandon plays Marnie, a loving mother who tries her best to make the life of her daughter Lori (a successful screenwriter) a happy one. Marnie advises Lori on her failed relationship with a gorgeous actor, tells her what she needs to talk about with her therapist, and leaves at least five voice messages a day on her phone. When Lori is sent to New York for an assignment she jumps at the chance, forcing Marnie to find a whole new group of ‘victims’ to bamboozle with her advice.

» GENRE Biopic » DIRECTOR Dexter Fletcher » ACTORS Hugh Jackman, Taron Egerton, Christopher Walken

Eddie the Eagle

This is the happy story of Michael ‘Eddie’ Edwards, the underdog British ski jumper who nobody initially believed in. With the help of his rebellious trainer (played by Hugh Jackman), Eddie achieves the impossible: the chance to compete at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Eddie’s success story shows that one can achieve great things despite not being a natural talent and despite having no funds for equipment and training. In this case, Eddie spent all his childhood dreaming of competing in the Olympics.

» GENRE Animation » DIRECTORS Andrew Stanton and Angus Maclane (Finding Nemo)

Finding Dory

The friendly-yet-forgetful blue tang fish, Dory (voiced by comedian Ellen DeGeneres) remembers that she actually has a family, though her failing memory is a big impediment to finding them. She does know she misses them, though, so she enlists the help of all her underwater friends, who will move hell and high water to help her achieve her dream.

34 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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8 exclusive gated residences in Lomas Del Marbella Club The C8NCEPT, is a highly select, fully gated community of 8 luxurious private residences situated in one of the most desirable addresses in Marbella. 24-hour state-of-the-art security ensures this gated community can offer its residents total peace of mind within a personal oasis in the heart of Marbella. Stunning Mediterranean sea views, unique architectural styling, free-flowing modern interior layouts and a level of luxury found only in the finest homes.

www.conceptmarbella.com

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Email: info@conceptmarbella.com

Tel: (+34) 952 810 785

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w THE TREND cinema

The Future of Cinema Has Arrived!

Marisa Cutillas presents new technologies that will change the way we experience film.

E

verywhere you look, someone is attached to a gadget – phone, tablet or laptop. We have become used to taking our technology with us to read emails, check out social network sites or even catch our favourite series or film on the go.

The ‘big screen’ has become rather small, changing the way we view cinema. Acclaimed Director, Spike Lee (Do the Right Thing, 1990) once said that his films could never be fully appreciated unless they were viewed in a movie theatre, though the way technology is shaping up indicates that directors may have to adapt their work to the demands of the new millennium.

Some technologies which will undoubtedly be affecting their techniques include: ZZ 4DX Theatres Many more action films will probably be made to accommodate the new 4DX technology, which delivers a fully immersive cinematic experience.

4DX theatres are equipped with motion chairs and a wide range of environmental effects which include wind, bubbles and scents,

which are matched to the action taking place on screen. The chair can move up and down, left and right and even tilt forwards and backwards. An imaginative director will certainly be able to plan scenes with these effects in mind, although ultimately, the bulk of the work is undertaken by 4DX Editors, who are able to maximise the sense of immersion within any movie. There are currently two 4DX theatres in England (in Sheffield and Central Milton Keynes), though it looks like Andalusians will have to wait a year or two before the technology is available here.

ZZ 360º Movies Google has developed a 360º app for Android, which allow spectators to view a scene from all sides of the first person perspective. Called Spotlight Stories, the app invites you to step in to the characters’ world, making the stories, characters and events incredibly real. Check out Google Spotlight’s sample videos on YouTube, to see how tense and exciting the experience can be. Savvy Directors should certainly avail of this technology for

everything from horror to action and adventure films!

ZZ Text-to-Film Bill Gates and Nathan Myhrvold have patented a new technology that creates visual and audio representations of any selection of text. That means that in the future, children may read a book like Alice and Wonderland and select any piece of text they would like to come to life.

ZZ Computer-Generated Actors When much loved Actor, Paul Walker passed away in tragic circumstances, the makers of the latest film in the Fast & Furious series declared that “the show must go on.” Walker had filmed most of his scenes but for a few remaining crucial shots, filmmakers used digital reconstruction techniques, paired with stand-in performances from Walkers brother.

ZZ Virtual Reality The new Oculus Rift and other headsets are doing plenty to immerse us in virtual worlds, but it will take the genius of a director like James Cameron to make the most of this technology for film. VR sets are already being used in the gaming sector, but the

viewing experience will have to be seriously amped up to make for a truly spectacular visual experience.

ZZ Cinema-as-Event The future of cinema is not just about groundbreaking technologies; a growing trend has been observed involving turning cinematic experiences into an event – film screenings are made extra special via synchronous live performances, site-specific screening locations, music, dance, food, etc. Social media also promises to play a big role in engaging audiences and attracting them to large outdoor venues where they can experience some of the magic in their favourite films, in real life. Recently, a live re-scoring tour of the film THX 1138 (George Lucas, 1971) made its way through the UK, featuring a live band playing new music interwoven with the film’s original soundtrack.

With competing handheld devices and online film services proving tough competition, filmmakers and producers will certainly be doing all they can to turn the cinema into what it always was: a one-of-a-kind experience! e

36 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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w THE TREND music

¿QUÉ PASA?

Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in your seats as the 2016 concert scene finally takes off (see below). Also lots of tribute acts are playing along the coast and it’s best to check your local weekly publications to see what’s going on. All information on this page was correct at the time of writing.

On July 2 and 3, the Fuengirola Blues Festival has ex DR. FEELGOOD guitar legend WILKO JOHNSON (was also the executioner of Ned Stark in Game of Thrones) topping the bill. Ticket info and full line-up: fuengirolabluesfestival.com/ Mama Mia! The Musical is on at Málaga’s Teatro de Cervantes from July 3 - 31. More details at www.teatrocervantes.com The Weekend Beach Festival (July 6 - 9) in Torre del Mar will see another member of the MARLEY clan, KY-MANI, along with UK electronic rock outfit THE QEMISTS and Spain’s LOVE OF LESBIAN. Ticket info and full line-up: www.weekendbeach.es Crazy Music Productions have three gigs coming up: SEAL at Marbella’s Puente Romano venue on July 18; KAISER CHIEFS at the Torremolinos El Pozuelo football ground on August 6 and SIMPLY RED on the Fuengirola castle grounds on August 18. Ticket info: www.crazymusicproductions.com The Starlite Festival at La Cantera de Nagueles near Marbella starts on July 18th, see page in this issue and starlitemarbella. com/en/ for the full line-up and ticket info.

QUEEN guitarist BRIAN MAY has ordered D TRUMP to stop using We Are The Champions on his presidential rallies after receiving “an avalanche of complaints” from the band’s fans. He said, “I will make sure we take what steps we can to disassociate ourselves from this unsavoury political campaign.”

PAUL MCCARTNEY

KAISER CHIEFS

BRIAN MAY

WORDS RIK FOXX

If you fancy a trip, guitar great JOE SATRIANI plays the Sala Custom in Sevilla on July 8 and the same city hosts IRON MAIDEN at the Estadio La Cartuja on July 14. Ticket info for both: www.ticketmaster.es Spain’s biggest festival, Benicàssim, near Valencia, runs from July 14 -17 with its usual all star line-up headlined by MUSE, THE CHEMICAL BROTHERS, KENDRICK LAMAR, DISCLOSURE, MASSIVE ATTACK and THE 1975. You can try for tickets (if there are any left) at fiberfib.com MTV Spain will no doubt be showing some of the action – check their site’s TV guide for details.

The latter are also one of the headliners at Scotland’s T In The Park Festival (July 8-10) with THE STONE ROSES, THE RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS and THE COURTEENERS. The BBC is yet to announce which channel it will show highlights on.

Sticking with TV – UK’s Channel 5 are making documentaries about the events leading up to the untimely deaths of two musical icons. Karen Carpenter: Goodbye to Love will look at the CARPENTERS’ success in the 1970s and the singer’s battle with anorexia and her relationship with her brother RICHARD. And Freddie Mercury: The Great Pretender Revealed will explore the late great front man’s life in 1986, the year that changed the course of his life.

5 SECONDS OF SUMMER have been quiet of late after two years in the limelight but they return with a new tune Girls Talk Boys on July 15. It’s taken from the Ghostbusters movie reboot which opens on the same day with a female cast replacing the original all-male line-up.

BLACK SABBATH announced via flyers at last month’s UK Download Festival that they will quit after a seven-date final tour next January and their last ever gig will take place where it all began in 1968 – Birmingham.

And STEVE TYLER has announced that AEROSMITH could call it quits soon while pushing his new solo country music album, We’re All Somebody From Somewhere, which lands on July 15, the title track was released as a single last month.

AC/DC singer BRIAN JOHNSON says he should be available for live gigs in the near future after seeing an in-ear technology specialist, who is also a fan of the group, and like many,

is not happy with AXL ROSE taking over vocal duties. The specialist said “I'm a big fan of Axl Rose’s voice, but let’s be clear, I really can’t imagine anyone but Brian singing Back in Black.”

As tickets for October’s three-day California Desert Trip were snapped up in seconds, organisers organised an encore for the following weekend.

For those not in the know, the line-up includes THE ROLLING STONES, PAUL McCARTNEY, NEIL YOUNG, BOB DYLAN, ROGER WATERS and THE WHO. Tickets cost $399 for general admission to $1,599 in the standing pit. Wonder how much the live pay-per-view service will cost?

Had last year’s voting system been used, Australia and not the Ukraine would have won the Eurovision Song Contest, and now America and China want in on the act. The competition’s controllers are said to be considering this as the two giants pulled in massive TV audiences and are willing to pay big to enter. What next? – an entry from outer space! e

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w THE TREND books

5

Exciting Summer Reads Summer is the best time of the year to catch up on books you’ve been wanting to read all year.

Marisa Cutillas brings you an exciting selection of page-turners to enjoy on the beach or poolside:

Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare

Emma Carstairs is a Shadowhunter who lives and breathes battle. Fighting alongside her parabatai (partner in battle), Julian Blackthorn, she patrols the alleys of Los Angeles, where she meets up with vampires and powerful faeries. When the mutilated bodies of humans and faeries turn up murdered in the same way Emma’s parents were killed when she was a child, she enlists Julian’s help to free her bother Mark (who has been imprisoned by the faeries) and to solve the murders before they become the next victims of the vicious murderer.

Me Before You

by Jojo Moyes

This witty, poignant romantic novel centres on Will Traynor, a successful man who has a great job, a beautiful girlfriend, and the perfect life… until a tragic road accident permanently disables him. Louisa is a young café worker who, at 26, has few ambitions and even fewer qualifications. She is hired by Will’s mother to take care of her son, since Will has made many attempts at suicide. Oddly enough, it is Will who makes the biggest change in Louisa’s life, teaching her the value of purpose and passion and of dedicating her life to something she truly loves.

Ain’t She Sweet

by Marie Force

Charley Abbott is a fun girl who has dated every guy in her town except one – Tyler Wescott.

Peskier than Pepé Le Pew, Tyler insists that he knows Charley better than she knows herself and dares to turn up at the running club where she is training for a marathon. When Charley’s hopes are shattered owing to an injury, Tyler sets out to prove that despite Charley’s grizzly exterior, she does actually want to share her life with someone who is prepared to love her unconditionally.

Fire Bound by Christine Feehan

Fire Bound is the fifth book in the Sea Haven – Sisters of the Heart series. It is the tale of Lissa Piner, a talented glass blower with mysterious powers which can destroy as quickly as they can create. Lissa heads for Italy when she is commissioned to design chandeliers for a luxury hotel group. There, she meets the bodyguard, Casmir Prakenskii, a hired assassin who soon falls for Lissa’s charms. He finds out, however, that something stronger connects them both: a desire for revenge that will lead them to embark on a series of dangerous adventures.

Make Me by Lee Child

Make Me is the 20th book in the Jack Reacher series, and another best-seller for its Author, Lee Child. The novel starts in typically exciting fashion, with Reacher arriving in a small town and immediately meeting a woman who desperately needs his help (Michelle Chang, a former FBI agent searching for her missing colleague). Reacher and Chang embark on a nationwide investigation that uncovers a terrifying snuff film operation which preys on terminally ill patients.

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w THE TREND technology

What’s Up with

WHATSAPP? WhatsApp has finally launched its new app for Windows and Mac OS X. Marisa Cutillas discusses how it is poised to make desktop usage much more fun.

W

hatsApp has certainly revolutionised the way we communicate by phone. Many users don’t need to take out unlimited Internet, as the number of calls we need to make has seriously been reduced since the advent of this free messaging service. So successful has it been for smartphone users that its developers have launched WhatsApp Web: a desktop app available for Windows 8+ and Mac OS 10.9, with the aim of expanding their client base even further.

The desktop app works very much like the phone app. However, it has a host of new practical features.

For instance, the messages you send and receive will be fully synced between your phone and computer so that if your phone were to run out of battery, for instance, you could still access all your messages on your computer.

You will also receive notifications for new messages; these will appear on the right side of your deksktop.

Make sure you click ‘Turn on desktop notifications’ in the blue box at the top of the chat list, though, or WhatsApp will remain silent.

In addition to being compatible

with desktop notification, the new WhatsApp will also respond to your favourite keyboard shortcuts.

It will additionally allow you to upload photos taken from your computer camera, and send videos, photographs and documents stored on your computer.

VIDEO CALLING IN THE WORKS WhatsApp Web isn’t the only new development for the popular app; Facebook (the owners of WhatsApp) are currently working on a video call feature for iPhone, Android, Windows and desktop apps. The company made voice calls possible over a year ago, though video calling would certainly provide stiff competition to services such as Skype, FaceTime and Facebook Messenger. WhatsApp hasn’t made an official statement yet, but leaked screenshots show that video calling is just around the corner. The company is also reportedly testing group invitations via QR codes, links and NFC tags.

EDITING WHATSAPP MESSAGES: FORESEEABLE OR NOT? One development that has not yet occurred (but which should

if WhatsApp is to hold its ground against its biggest competitor, Telegram) is a feature that would allow users to edit messages after they have been sent. Mistaken messages or those sent to the wrong person can have serious consequences, so the ability to edit is crucial. Telegram recently launched their edit feature, which works on all chats, including group and one-on-one conversations. It works this simply: just tap on the message, hold on a while, then press edit. Your message will then display a small ‘edited’ label so you can see when and where your modifications were effected.

WhatsApp, meanwhile, recently introduced end-to-end encryption, which ensures that only you and the person you are communicating with can see your messages. The latter are secured with a lock, and only you and the person have the key to unlock it.

SECRET FEATURES… OR NOT SO SECRET? Finally, WhatsApp has many exciting features users may not know about, many of which have been around for over a year. These

include the Broadcast Lists feature, which allows you to send the same message to a group without them knowing (a bit like the BCC option in emails). The App also allows you to see how much data it uses, so you can reduce it by only permitting it to download images and audio, for instance, when you are connected to WiFi. You can additionally share documents stored on Google Drive or iCloud Drive, selecting these sources when you are asked where you wish to share from.

If privacy is an issue and you have been added to a group, go to Privacy in your Account settings and change Last Seen, Profile Photo and Status, to My Contacts. This means that ONLY your contacts will be able to see when you were last on, etc. To avoid others seeing blue ticks when you read their messages, when you receive a message, go to Airplane Mode (which blocks Wifi and mobile data), read the WhatsApp message, close the App completely then deactivate Airplane mode. Finally, if you do not want the images people send you to be saved on your phone, press Settings – Chats – and turn off Save Incoming Media. e

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w THE TREND motoring

LEXUS LC500 For 2017 (Preview)

Looking at Lexus’ very extensive range of luxury vehicles, it’s hard to spot any gaps there, but the highly-regarded Japanese manufacturer has found one and is filling it for 2017 with the new LC500. WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LEXUS

T

he LC500 is described by Lexus as “an alluring, expressively designed luxury coupé that defines a new era for the brand.” What it is, in fact, is a high-performance 2+2 that’s the hottest thing we’ve seen from Lexus since the limited-production LFA sports supercar. It falls into the same class as rivals like the BMW 6-series and the Mercedes-Benz S coupés, so expect it to be fast, agile, superbly equipped and expensive. The new car is part of many upcoming global expansion moves for

Lexus and the vehicles will be more intensively marketed in more countries than hitherto.

One look at the car and there are hints of the almost legendary LFA sports supercar, which was only built for two years and kept limited to just 500 units. It was the most expensive Japanese car ever built and cost several hundred thousand euros. It was clear at the time that this model would inspire future products from Lexus and the LC500 is undoubtedly a reflection

of that thinking. Up front is the now well known Lexus ‘spindle’ grille, which most people like but others regard it as a little ‘over the top’. Certainly, it gives Lexus a huge recognition factor it never enjoyed before. The flowing, almost fluid, lines complement multiLED front and rear lighting which is very dramatic, though this has been a predictable trend throughout the luxury car business in recent times. Huge 21inch alloy wheels add to the car’s eager stance.

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The car will be the first to employ an all-new Lexus platform designed for use with various luxury cars. It is, of course, rear-wheel drive, the only configuration that ever been accepted by serious sports car enthusiasts. Although the car uses a lot of high-strength steel, it has a carbon fibre roof and aluminium door skins. This mode of design is intended to combine light weight with great rigidity. The power unit is a 5.0-litre V-8 which is expected to develop 467-horsepower. It’s a similar engine to the one used in the Lexus GS F, an example of which I have in my garage right now. I can confirm that this is an outstanding engine with quite surprising amounts of power and torque. It’s also silky smooth, but has a very robust growl to it under acceleration. Since the GS F is a big saloon, I’d expect even more exciting things from the LC500 with its light body structure and smaller size.

The transmission is a 10-speed (yes, 10-speed!) automatic with manual override via paddle controls. This is the first ever 10-speed in a luxury car, so it’s something of an achievement for the Lexus

engineering team. Like any car in this class, the interior is highly developed to be driveroriented, but still provide a very comfortable environment for other occupants. For 2017, Lexus has a new multimedia package, which will make its debut with the LC500.

In addition to brakes that would shame a racing car, the LC500 has extensive safety systems based on electronic modules around the vehicle. Naturally, the audio system will be one of the best available in the automotive field. As with all Lexus models, the LC500 will be built to very high standards of fit, finish, materials quality and durability. More information will be made available on this exciting new Lexus as 2017 nears and for now, no prices have been announced. Speculation runs to something in the 120.000-euro range, but it could be either side of that. For people who’ve waited for the ultimate Lexus and couldn’t quite run to an LFA (or didn’t get their order in fast enough), this will be a car worth waiting for. Later on, Lexus is expected to announce both hybrid and turbocharged versions of the new car. e

Z ENGINE: 5.0-litre V-8, 467-horsepower.

Z TRANSMISSION: 10-speed automatic.

Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in under 4.5-secs, estimated.

Z TOP SPEED: TBA. Z I LIKED: Outstanding styling and stance. Very fluid lines and clearly a very efficient aerodynamic design.

Lexus quality, fit and finish is always a delight to see in any model from the company. Advanced electronics.

Performance of the big V-8 and a nice growl to boot.

Z I DIDN’T LIKE: Not everyone likes the prominent spindle grille, but it does cement the Lexus image around the world. Don’t buy this one if fuel economy is an issue.

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: BMW 6 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class two-door.

Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Lexus owners who always wanted the ultimate car from this company.

Owners of upscale two-door sporty 2+2s who’d like to try something else. Buyers who no longer need a large saloon and would like to size down to something sporty that still has four seats.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Due for 2017 delivery, pricing to be announced later in the year.

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p the focus CULTURE HISTORY FEATURES CELEBS INTERVIEWS HUMOUR

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Local Architects Discuss Current Trends

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Art Marbella Fair

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Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas

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Grand New Musical La La Land

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Chris Clover’s Perspective on Marbella Property

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DM Properties Market Report 2016

This month’s magazine is all about enjoying the best that Marbella has to offer in the summer. Discover the hottest architectural trends on the Coast, visit Art Marbella (Marbella’s most significant art fair), experience life aboard the majestic Harmony of the Seas, check out the new musical La La Land and learn about the latest on the property scene with Chris Clover of Panorama and DM Properties.

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p THE FOCUS architecture

If real estate and construction are vital sectors in our region then (good) architecture is no less important – both in economic terms and to safeguard our living environment and quality of life. In this feature we ask a selection of leading architects on the Costa del Sol for their thoughts on the latest design and development trends sweeping Marbella and surroundings. WORDS Michel cruz Photography kevin horn

What the

architects say

Modern architecture feeds creativity and innovation

Serranofont Architects Juan Antonio Serrano Tirao

An architect with town planning specialisation who worked for the Marbella planning department for many years, Juan Antonio Serrano knows design and construction in this region like the back of his hand. Though a large part of the work of Serranofont Architects focuses on luxury villas, this expertise remains highly valid, as does his passion for design, construction and getting your boots dirty on site.

“We work on quite a diverse range of projects but in all of them we maintain a very personal link that focuses not just on design but also on all the details that subsequently go into making it a success once completed,” says Juan Antonio. It is exactly this variety of disciplines that attracts him to architecture, and while he readily admits that the levels of specific knowledge required nowadays are such that you have to work with competent technical partners, here is an architect who very much likes to oversee what is happening once his designs leave the drawing board.

“The link between a design and its application is often undervalued, but it is fundamental to creating a home that works on an aesthetic as well as functional level. And as always it’s the details that really make the difference between a property that is nice and one that is truly impressive.” Another factor he enjoys is the individuality of the projects he works on. “A fashion designer produces a collection, but as architects we have the fortune to work on one-off creations of which no two are identical. This is a privilege, and with it comes a responsibility to get it right whether you are

designing a luxury villa or creating the urban plan for a town.”

In those projects where he designs residential complexes for property developers, Juan Antonio stresses the ability to also see the end product through the eyes of the client, and as a result he thinks along with them to produce a living environment that meets the investors’ objectives while offering buyers style and value for money. “Modern architecture allows you to do that because its aesthetic and technical features enable you to create something impressive, yet it must also be a cosy, welcoming home.” An architect therefore juggles a great many different factors and considerations before creating the designs that we tend to regard as mere stylistic exercises. “Getting the balance right is what ultimately defines good architecture.”

i www.serranofont.com

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Your dream home now for sale

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By NOK designs are characterised by their individual character

Y

ou might have noticed – a new wave of development is spreading along the coast. The product of strong demand for Marbella and its unique way of life, it is one of the pillars of the region’s economic revival and also at the heart of a new design trend that is colouring Marbella white again.

More traditional architectural styles and the earthier tones of the 90’s and 2000’s are out and a sleek, contemporary geometry coupled with glass, stone and above all technology is ushering in a new era on the Costa del Sol. But this movement is not only about new construction; with many older properties being modernised and renovated, you could speak of a rejuvenation of the physical landscape in the coastal region stretching from Sotogrande eastwards.

For now the main focus of this activity is upon luxurious villas and apartment complexes, but as the pace of development increases and the scope widens to also include commercial, retail, public and larger residential projects, the role of architects in maintaining or enhancing the five-star status of Marbella will grow too.

BY NOK ARMANDO GOMEZ

An economist by training and entrepreneur by nature, Armando Gomez is also a great lover of architecture.

While not one himself, he works closely with the architects that form part of the integrated set of skills that make up By NOK. The company has strong roots in Murcia and on the Costa del Sol, while also operating in areas such as Madrid, and as a result has the scale to sustain the full chain of services, from project study and architectural design through to construction, engineering, landscaping and interior design. “By working with your own handpicked teams you can not only guarantee quality and delivery, but also consistency and a product that is fully harmonised from the outset,” says the dynamic leader of one of Marbella’s fastest growing property companies.

The renewed vitality of the Costa del Sol seems reflected in this firm that blends architecture and construction into one package, yet Armando is keen to maintain standards in the face of growth. “We are currently designing and building luxury villas across the coastal region, but the process remains a personalised and bespoke one. We can make this

claim because we work to a system that functions like clockwork, and as we expand we build new professional teams that fit into our operational methodology. This way each client constructing a villa with us receives both the resources of a large company and the personal attention of one-on-one design teams.”

He confirms that the vast majority of new-build homes commissioned right now are modern in style and concept. “Ten-fifteen years ago no-one wanted contemporary architecture and the bulk of buyers insisted on their own interpretations of SpanishMediterranean country styles, but now it’s the exact opposite. Virtually all our clients request clean-cut modern styles with lots of glass frontage, open-plan layouts, tighter angles and tall ceilings. Technology plays a central part in all this too, not just in the electronics that form part of a home these days, but also in the type of materials and standard of construction.”

Another change is that today’s buyer is far more

knowledgeable and has a very good idea of what he or she wants. “People use a lot of visual references to what they like. This, together with modern presentation tools, facilitates communication and conveying design ideas, so we work with mood boards to plan and fine-tune the process from original architectural design right through to landscaping and decorating.” Asked if there is a downside to an otherwise upbeat business environment, Armando cites the planning issues that have beset Marbella since the annulment of the 2010 PGOU by the Supreme Court. “That was a bad enough blow, but the time it is taking the town hall to process initial building licenses is severely handicapping Marbella’s growth right now. Fortunately for clients and the property sector alike, Benahavís and Estepona are only too happy to take its place.” i www.bynok.es

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THE GRAND COLLE CTION Enquire today for more information on the Grand Collection at Benahavís Hills Country Club.

There are currently 6 Grand Co llection properties available for sale with a choice of 3 mansion layouts. These properties have been specifically designed to represent expansive style and great investment value, there are no comparable properties at this price per square metre across the whole of the region.

The internal layout is distributed across 3 light-filled floors, with uninterrupted views of the breath-taking Andalucian countryside & Mediterranean Sea. Each has a huge basement suitable for playroom/ gym/ cinema room and a private swimming pool. In addition, the clubhouse including restaurant, spa, gym & owners’ concierge service is just a few steps away.

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Design details that distinguish a home

BENJUMEA ARQUITECTOS ANTONIO BENJUMEA TESOURO Benjumea Arquitectos is a Sotograndebased firm that also works on projects in Marbella and beyond, specialising above all in private villas. Though it offers a very personal service it too encompasses a wide range of professional services both in-house and through longstanding partnerships with associated specialists. “The level of technical expertise required these days is such that the process has changed; the independent architect of old, who designed a home ready to build by a conventional construction company, now must work with a team of technical peers in fields such as electronics, engineering and lighting to deliver the kind of home that clients demand in the 21st century,” explains Antonio Benjumea Tesouro.

For the architect who has been designing luxury homes across this coastal region since he graduated,

change is therefore a defining factor in his profession today. “This generation of architects is living through a period of rapid transition from the construction roles, techniques and materials of the recent past to the dawn of a new era that we find ourselves in now,” says the affable head of Benjumea Arquitectos.

Born into an architectural family, he believes good architecture is the culmination of design flair and technical expertise. “As a technical architect, my father instilled in me an understanding of how these two elements are central to our work. Too many architects still don’t like to get their hands dirty, so to speak, and visit the site much, but this is where it all starts, for when you’re building villas, each plot contains specifics such as setting, gradient, orientation, views, climatic conditions and surrounding properties that make it unique. When all these factors are incorporated into the

design, they help to define the home and it too becomes unique, especially when blended with the tastes and needs of the property’s owners.”

The strength of Benjumea Arquitectos is therefore the technical and design standards it brings together, as reflected in homes that not only represent the latest design trends, comforts, technological features and construction materials, but do so while offering high efficiency in energy usage and maintenance. Antonio began designing contemporary homes before it became the norm, but now sees a growing diversification of what we call modern architecture. “Style has a cyclical nature, but one thing that is not likely to change is the level of professionalism demanded by today’s clients, and with the technology available to us today we can consult with them at different stages and keep

them fully up to date wherever they may be.”

You can speak volumes about the philosophy of architecture, and many do, but at the end of the day the proof is in the pudding, so to speak, and the aesthetic appeal, functionality and flow of a home says it all. “It’s for this reason that we look at details such as wind, which is a factor in places like Sotogrande, and harness it to cool the home naturally while also maximising the views.” To Antonio, a home is like a Swiss watch, made up of many detailed parts that have to function perfectly before you hand it over to the owner. In a world full of new materials, technologies and design opportunities, not to mention exacting clients who know what they want, these are exciting times for architects like Antonio Benjumea. i www.benjumea-arquitectos.com

Today’s architectural vernacular

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A Kingdom for sale near Gaucin

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The House of the Rising Sun

n the late 80’s, looking for properties to build up my portfolio, I discovered a large piece of land that stunned me by its beauty.

It had it all; interesting ruins, endless views, mountains, valleys, a small river, a forest and some ancient carob trees.

This area around Gaucin and the Genal river still bears the rich heritage of the hordes of Phoenicians, Romans and Moors who invaded the south of Spain and I adopted this part of Andalusia in the early 70’s when I started my estate agency in the village of Gaucin.

I often describe my potential buyers as pioneers, as in the Old Wild West, with their intrepidness and sense of adventure. They need to be a bit mad to buy

a few old walls in a foreign country and decide to make it their dream house. Well, I did eventually find a buyer enterprising enough to buy the one million square metres of land. He was a diplomat and when I showed him and his wife the ruins it only took them a few minutes before they told me they liked it!

Two years later, my wife and I went to the housewarming and it was my turn for once to be speechless! The result of their hard work was beyond my imagination; the magnificent cortijo they had created looked as if it had been standing there for a hundred years and it featured its own 9 hole golf course!

Now this fabulous property is on the market and looking for younger buyers.

If you are looking to buy this large Andalusian country estate, click on The land: +/- 100 ha (1,000,000 sq.m.)

The buildings: in excess of 1.500 sq.m.

Water plans: 1.500 sq.m.

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www.fincasgermaux.com

Sole representative: robert.germaux@gmail.com Tel: 639 729 523

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Creating a personal lifestyle setting

P4 ARQUITECTOS EUL ALIA POLO DE UÑA P4 Arquitectos was founded in 2015 by husband and wife team Eulalia Polo de Uña and Joaquín Amores Sardá, who lead the architectural design and engineering teams respectively. Though this makes P4 a new brand on the market, the company’s principals have over 20 years experience in this area, having built villas, apartments, retail and office complexes in and around Marbella since the 1990s.

When she graduated as an architect, Eulalia, like most of her colleagues, desired nothing more than to create wonderful homes with all the expression and creativity that modern design allows.

At the time, however, most buyers had fallen in love with the Cortijo Andaluz style, yet now architects across the

region are able to give free reign to their creative vision and innovation amid a renewed flowering of sleek, white modern architecture.

“Most people see this change from contemporary versions of rustic architecture to the modern styles of today as a very clear and sudden threshold that we crossed during the years of construction inactivity, but for me the process had already begun earlier.” For Eulalia, the echoes of a nearby future were already discernable in the evolution that kitchen design was undergoing throughout most of the 2000s. “Even when we were still building rustic style homes, the kitchen was evolving, slowly spreading outwards through the interior of homes in what was an inside-out

process of stylistic change.”

Modern home electronics and new construction materials have added to this evolution, yet what hasn’t changed is the architect’s role in creating not just visually enchanting forms that are also functional, but in working with light, space and lifestyle concepts to arrive at the design in the first place. “What defines an architect is his or her composition of the many different elements that go into creating the living spaces we call a home, an office or any other building we use.”

One of the most useful developments in this respect is the increasing sophistication of computer models and renders, yet in addition to this Eulalia still finds handmade sketches and 3D models very instinctive to designer and

client alike. “When I’m discussing a design concept or details with a client, it is much easier and less time consuming to sketch out and adapt examples of what we’re discussing as we progress through the ideas.” Interiors play a more important part in this than ever before, for it is a lifestyle that people want from a home, not just a collection of rooms, so for Eulalia how the property facilitates movement and the flow of life are central aspects to her work. “As architects, we love design for its own sake, but especially when we build luxury villas and apartments we must never forget that we are there to realise the vision of those for whom they will be a home.” i www.p4arquitectos.com

Sleek modern Marbella styling

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Hacienda Las Chapas - Marbella

Exclusively marketed by

ARKITECTS MANUEL JESÚS RUÍZ MORICHE Some might associate the architectural firm founded by Manuel Jesús Ruíz with Sotogrande, where it is based, but with up to 80 per cent of its projects in and around Marbella, Arkitects has made a name for itself across the entire region.

Today the company is known as an expert in the creation of luxurious villas, following a philosophy of working that mirrors the Northern European approach more than it does the Andalusian.

Together with an accompanying flair for precision, this has been the basis of Arkitects’s success.

Having lived through the tough years, like all architects, builders and real estate agents in this region, Arkitects is now in the advantageous position to be designing and building luxury villas from Sotogrande to Marbella. “We are indeed fortunate, as we have become specialised in significant properties of 1,500m2 to 3,000m2 and can focus on those projects we know we will excel in,” says Manuel. For him, it is not a question of scale or quantity but of quality and affinity. “We also enjoy working on much smaller villas. What is important for us

is that the concept fits with our way of working, which is how we guarantee client satisfaction, and beyond that single qualification we dedicate ourselves entirely to their needs, for an arrogant architect after his or her own glory is someone who doesn’t grow or learn, and certainly doesn’t serve the homeowner’s needs.”

He regards this region as a leading international market for luxury properties and lifestyles, and believes the product and service must be of an accordingly high standard. “People who come from Northern Europe demand a certain level of professionalism that has been lacking in the past, and it applies not only to the quality of the end product but the whole experience in-between.” The secret of his success can be traced to the fact that Arkitects is not just an architectural studio but an integrated company that takes care of the whole process from design to construction and finishing.

“In the past I saw too many beautiful projects and designs being completed in a shoddy way, with poor build quality, technical standards and delivery times.

Most also overran their budgets in a big way, often causing financial problems for owners who had been promised one price by companies who knew full well that once they won the project the real costs and timeframes would emerge. By then, however, the client was locked in with them.”

Blessed with a personal aversion to this way of working, he set up Arkitects as a vertically integrated company that operates in the style of a Northern European or American architectural and engineering consultancy. “We provide the full service in one place where everything is coordinated and harmonised under one roof. In other words, we balance the need for high technical and design standards, liaise carefully with our clients and work together to ensure all elements of the property work optimally together, and we also ensure the price we quote is a fair one that doesn’t change along the way.” Add delivery times that are regarded as the Holy Grail and the company’s success is explained.

In spite of the above, Manuel has no desire to expand beyond a certain point.

“We work in the luxury segment and therefore offer what is by definition a highly personalised service, so we prefer to keep our organisation large and diverse enough to offer broad, professional skills but small enough to ensure the highest standards.” For this reason he studies the plot very well, consults with the owners and then looks out for the technical details, as “a design is something that comes to life through the building of it.”

He believes good years are ahead for Marbella, Estepona and Sotogrande, but to justify the tag of luxury destinations we need to raise standards of quality and know-how, above all in construction. “It remains strange that in Spain architects and engineers have to study for years and carry full legal responsibility while builders can be illiterate and can more or less walk away from problems. As modern homes and their construction become increasingly complex, the levels of expertise and professional accountability will have to be high across the board. That is the only way our sector will flourish.”

i www.ark-architects.com

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SINCE 1990

p THE FOCUS art

ART MARBELLA

TAKES OVER THE COAST IN JULY!

Marina Núñez, La Gran Valladolid (Valladolid)

One of Southern Spain’s most important art fairs will be transforming the face of Marbella as we know it from July 29 to August 3. Marisa Cutillas brings us the scoop on the cultural event of the season!

Said Messari, Saida Art Contemporain (Morocco) 64 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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“ Ángela de la Cruz, Carreras Mugica (Bilbao)

Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one,” said Stella Adler, while for Oscar Wilde, art was “the most intense mode of individualism that the world has known.”

Without a doubt, art holds a certain magic for all of us, even those who may not have a degree in fine arts or a profound knowledge of the subject. For who has not found themselves completely enraptured by a painting, unexpectedly found in a corner of a gallery, speaking in symbols that the individual soul understands in an instant, effortlessly?

It is this communion between canvas and spectator, that this year’s Art Marbella fair seeks to foster. The event will take place at the Palacio de Ferias, Congresos y Exposiciones de Marbella, from Friday July 29 to Wednesday August 3. This is the second year in a row for the fair, which aims to bring together collectors, artists, curators, art lovers and investors, so they can appreciate, enjoy, learn and acquire works by some of the most relevant artists on the current scene. The event certainly met its goals last year, selling approximately €10 million worth of art.

Mark Hosking, Art Nueve (Murcia)

Miki Leal, F2 Galería (Madrid)

Shirin Neshat, Filomena Soares (Portugal)

Mr. Brainwash, Everyday Life (2016), Galería Hispánica Contemporánea (Madrid) ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JULY 2016 / 65

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Diego Santomé, Galería Bacelos (Madrid)

Oteiza, Galería Michel Mejuto

Art Marbella is being organised by a talented team headed by Alejandro Zaia, an entrepreneur with extensive experience in art, communications and public relations. Zaia has founded and directed fairs the calibre of PINTA London and PINTA New York, which specialise in Latin American, Spanish and Portuguese art. A Madrid resident, he has been awarded the prestigious prize for the promotion of culture by the Observatorio D’Achtall. Zaia chose Marbella for the event because “Marbella is the ideal location for an international fair of this level. Marbella is known as a luxury holiday destination. It may have been difficult, initially, to convince top galleries to send works and representatives, but they quickly recognised Marbella as an ideal setting to show off works to high-level buyers and art lovers from all over the world. Around 75 per cent of the exhibiting galleries from last year have decided to return this year.”

Art Marbella was indeed a big success – so much so that news about the event appeared in various top international publications, including The New York Times. Says Alejandro: “Many publications in Madrid dedicated various pages to our event and that was good for Marbella because people realised that the city has a lot more to offer than luxury yachts and seaside leisure activities. Marbella is culturally rich enough to attract top galleries from major cities.”

Art Marbella is an event that ultimately has something to offer everyone. Those who cherish the opportunity to simply view works they would otherwise have to travel extensively for, relish a visit, while serious buyers from the Middle East, the United States, Europe, Latin America and other countries look upon the event as a valuable way to enrich a private art collection or make a sure-fire investment. “Last year, around 50 big collectors visited us, while other buyers popped in casually since they were already here on holiday.”

Peter Zimmermann, Filomena Soares (Portugal)

Luis Gordillo, Galería Rafael Ortiz

Xavier Monsalvatje, Set Espai D’Art (Valencia)

Santiago Picatoste, Galería Xavier Fiol (Madrid) Juan Gris, Yolanda Ochando Obre Gráfica (Málaga) 66 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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Pedro Peña Gil, Pedro Peña Art Gallery (Marbella) Miguel Barceló, Galería de Arte David Bardía (Madrid)

Jorge Cabieses, Rofa Projects Potomac (USA)

The galleries exhibiting this year are from Spain, United States, Latin America, Morocco and China.

For many, it is their first time in Marbella. Stoa Gallery in Marbella took part last year and will be returning this year. Another local gallery, Pedro Peña, will also be participating. Galleries from the north include CarrerasMugica from Madrid, Bacelos from Madrid and Galería Senda from Barcelona.

One of the many talented painters whose work will captivate a culturally ravenous audience, is Antonio Domínguez de Haro (who paints incredibly colourful submarine landscapes). The full list of galleries is impressive, so check the Art Marbella website to keep up-to-date with special events, artists and galleries, and much more.

The week of the fair will be an exciting time for Marbella as a whole. Alejandro explains, “There will be simultaneous events taking place to celebrate art and artistic achievement. Local institutions such as Museo Grabado will be holding exhibitions of works by local artists, and this is an excellent time for budding artists to make their works known to a wider audience. In upcoming years, we hope to slowly inundate Marbella with art in all its forms, with more galleries and public areas involved.”

The fair will also welcome families wishing to share a culturally enriching afternoon. “Children can learn a lot about art by attending the fair, since they will have the chance to view works not only by some of the best Spanish and international artists on the scene.” And of course, you don’t need to be a curator or investor to take a beautiful work of art home with you. The average price of the works sold at last year’s event hovered between €7.000 and €15.000, though works range in price between €1.500 to €1 million. i For further information, www.marbellafair.com

Eugene James Martin, Beta Pictoris Gallery/ Maus Contemporary (USA)

Fernando Bayona, Kir Royal Gallery (Valencia)

Aurora Vigil-Escalera, Galería de Arte Gijón (Gijón)

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Bahia Alcantara is a luxury front line beach complex, close to all amenities, numerous resturants and only a short drive to Puerto Banús and various golf courses. The gated complex has 24h security, surveillance cameras, beautiful community gardens and swimming pool area. San Pedro Alcantara is a very popular area of Marbella and is situated only a few kilometers west of Marbella centre. Famous for its typical Andalusian fish restaurants. The picturesque old town has a pedestrian precinct with many shops, restaurants and bars.

step away from the entire infrastructure necessary for daily living.

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p THE FOCUS cruises

The magnificence of Harmony of the Seas, humourously depicted by Royal Caribbean

W

ell, if times have changed in the fast growing world of cruising, the clocks are going bananas at Royal Caribbean, the most innovative of the big lines.

Hence the headlines when its latest baby took to the water at the STX yard at St Nazaire, France, not far from the World War II U-boat pens the RAF could not destroy.

She is Harmony of the Seas, in fact the biggest cruise ship in the world, although

not unique. Two sister ships are already in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, and another is coming along in two years.

All are remarkable vessels, if only for their size, moving more than 6,000 passengers in great comfort while being lavished with lashings of restaurants, bars and other accoutrements of good living.

Having said that, the sheer size originally put some people off, including myself, as my cruise writing focus steered me towards small, luxury ships with as

few as 112 passengers. Harmony of the Seas is a humungous 227,000 tons with 18 decks, five times the size of the Titanic.

I did not sail on the first ship in this class, Oasis of the Seas. When the second, Allure of the Seas, came along, I thought I would risk a few hours on a day visit to Málaga, for I had noticed a trend with big ships creating exclusive, luxury sections rather like first class and steerage in ocean liners of old.

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Pool Deck onboard Harmony of the Seas

You know you are on a big ship when the lifts go up to deck 17.

And it feels just a bit different when you share a lift with a bloke playing a piano.

HARMONY

WORDS DAVID WISHART PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ROYAL CARIBBEAN

OF THE SEAS ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JULY 2016 / 71

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Boardwalk onboard Harmony of the Seas

Allure of the Seas did not have a separate, gated community, but it did have some amazing suites which were increasingly popular with multi-generational travel, and there was something else – curry.

I got a whiff of it heading into a meeting with tourism and port authority people. When the droning started, I slipped out and followed my nose to a restaurant doing a lunch buffet.

And there it was, the best curry I have ever had afloat. I was a changed man, and when I received an invitation to sail on the third ship, I set course for Southampton soon after its arrival from St Nazaire.

Getting aboard Harmony of the Seas was a breeze, handled nicely by a legion of staff who knew their jobs and smiled as well. Getting to my cabin was another matter, for this is a long ship with corridors that seem to go on forever. Go easy on your hand luggage and never forget your sunglasses.

Then we were off, Harmony of the Seas floating on a sea of bubbles, technically an air lubrication system, that are injected under the hull creating an effect like a board on marbles. As a result it is the fastest ship in the fleet. It is also incredibly smooth.

All of which makes an ideal platform for deck after deck of

The Pefect Storm onboard Harmony of the Seas

entertainment, such as Royal Promenade, where you can go shopping, pop into a pub and buy a slice of pizza. Three decks higher is Central Park, a leafy seaburb with swish restaurants and wine bars as well as Cartier and Bvlgari boutiques, all overlooked by towering cabins .

The top deck has most of the 23 pools, water slides and flowriders, surf lessons on a wave pool, a rock face for climbing, a zip line, three water slides and a thrilling ‘dry slide’ – the Ultimate Abyss, in which brave souls ride an enclosed tube down 10 decks. Thoughtfully located near the start is the Wipe Out bar.

Elsewhere, in fact almost everywhere, there is a place for a pint or a mojito, and for a bit of fun there’s the Bionic Bar with robotic barmen. Mind you the bill includes a tip. In cruising, some things never change. I liked the wine bar in Central Park where the servers had that small, simple quality – they smiled.

The maitre d’ and staff at the 150 Central Park restaurant were equally charming, and the black cod was outstanding. This is one of the restaurants where you pay extra, but the elegant 150 is well worth it, as was Jamie’s, where the bruschetta, prawn linguini and desserts are first class.

Royal Family Suite with Balcony

Bionic Bar

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

Built: 256 m2 Terrace: 66 m2 Price: 595.000€

Los Flamingos. Stunning 3 bedroom duplex penthouse in luxury development on a hilltop inside Los Flamingos, gated with 24-hours security and concierge. West facing with sea views and terraces on both levels. 2 underground parking spaces with direct lift access included. R742543

Built: 485 m2 Plot: 1.308 m2 Price: 945.000€

Monte Biarritz. Large 6 bedroom villa with very private garden and pool area, walking distance to the beach and to amenities, a guest apartment with independent entrance and a large solarium on the top with nice sea view. R2611913

Built: 82 m2 Terrace: 21 m2 Price: 244.000€

Estepona, Bel-Air. Apartments with 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms

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Estepona Front Line Beach. Magnificent 2 bedroom apartment only 50m from the beach, south orientated with unbeatable views to Gibraltar and the African Coast.

Only 1 apartment left in this exclusive development.

Amenities and restaurants in walking distance. R2442761

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Benamara Beachside. Beautiful villa located only 100 meters from the beach, between Estepona and San Pedro de Alcantara on the New Golden Mile. Completely reformed in 2014. Very private garden with new pool and solar panels. R2570342

with high quality finishes under construction. Ground floor apartments with private garden and penthouses with large solariums in gated community with walking distance to amenities and to the beach. R2626433

marbella-estates.com • Tel. +34 952 90 42 44 • info@marbella-estates.com 203 Marbella Estates.indd 1

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The world’s largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas

Izumi is in two parts – a sushi bar and restaurant, and a hibachi room. The former does not require a reservation, but both ways it was hugely popular.

Note that while there are 20 places to eat, the popular ones get booked up, so reservations, maybe online before you board, are essential. You even have to book for the theatre, although there are two shows each evening.

It all adds up to a busy, buzzing ship where there is always something going on. It’s great for kids – who wear wristbands with a GPS connection so they don’t get lost – and the young at heart.

The theatre shows Grease, there’s comedy and a nice little jazz venue, plus a superb indoor skating rink with ice shows.

What Harmony of the Seas does not have is a library, just an indoor card room with two bookshelves of paperbacks. But spectacular views, and quiet, can be found in the Solarium adults-only area, which has been improved.

Downloading a book, a newspaper or a film is also possible because Royal Caribbean ships have what they claim to be the fastest Internet afloat. Certainly it was good enough to broadcast the FA Cup Final live on a big screen.

Royal Caribbean built this ship on the basis that this is what their customers want. Bar a few trifles, no complaints were heard.

Certainly not from me when I went to the Windjammer for lunch and found not one, but three curries.

I could also mention the fresh blueberries for breakfast, and the clever shower door in the bathroom of my balcony suite, among many other impressive factors.

Getting off, I stopped and looked up. Harmony of the Seas is quite a sight. I was impressed.

Harmony of the Seas is currently home-ported in Barcelona for a summer season of Mediterranean cruises taking in many delightful destinations along the French and Italian rivieras. Also prices are reduced as many Americans, always cautious travellers, have postponed trips.

Europeans, on the other hand, now have a great opportunity to enjoy, at bargain prices, that most special of summer holidays, a Mediterranean cruise. High summer, as we all know, brings much heat, little parking, packed restaurants and crowded beaches.

Get on a cruise ship and enjoy cool breezes, romantic meals on deck, or on the balcony of your cabin, several pools are steps away, and late night entertainment awaits in the theatre below.

Cruises on Harmony of the Seas start at £1,099 per person, including flights, for a seven-day trip from Barcelona, and staying in an ocean-view cabin.

Harmony of the Seas winds up the summer in October with a repositioning cruise from Barcelona to Florida, with a call at Málaga. i www.royal caribbean.co.uk

i www.royalcaribbean.com

Jamie’s Italian onboard Harmony of the Seas

The Ultimate Abyss 74 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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p THE FOCUS people

Musicals mean so much to those of us who have grown up with ďŹ lms starring the elegant Fred Astaire, the charming Gene Kelly or the vivacious Judy Garland. These movies had the unique ability to make our spirit rise even in the toughest times, their energy, great music and fantastic vocal performances exuding joy and lifting us to higher ground. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Musicals Still Big in the New Millenium

LA LA

LAND 76 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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S

oon, an exciting new musical, born and bred in the 21st century, will make us feel the magic all over again – La La Land, starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone.

The film is set in Los Angeles and is based on MGM musicals from the 1940s and 1950s such as A Star is Born, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and the ultimate musical of all time, Singin’ in the Rain. Gosling is a young pianist who falls in love with an aspiring actress (Stone), though the stress and pressures of the life in entertainment threaten their blossoming love. The film is written and directed by Oscar-nominated director, Damien Chazelle, whose Whiplash was undoubtedly one of the best films of 2014.

La La Land was actually written before Whiplash. Miles Teller (who stole the show as an aspiring drummer in Whiplash) was the director’s first choice to play the lead. As time progressed and Teller became a blockbuster star, however (appearing in Fantastic Four and the Divergent films), Chazelle came to the conclusion that the intense actor was no longer “creatively right” for the role. When Teller found out he had been ousted in favour of dramatic talent, Ryan Gosling, his response was to send the Director a text message: “What the fuck, bro?”

We are still wondering what Chazelle replied…

Readers will know we are solid Teller fans at , yet Ryan Gosling is without a doubt a great choice for this role. After all, the blonde hunk honed his musical craft as one a handful of children chosen to be in Disney’s Mickey Mouse Club;

most kids have as much chance of being hired by Disney as they do of winning one of Willy Wonka’s golden tickets. During his stint with Disney, Gosling was joined by no less than Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake – it is easy to imagine the raw talent and charisma he exuded as a child.

Emma Stone wasn’t the director’s first choice either – Chazelle’s ideal muse was Emma Watson, the young Brit who starred in the Harry Potter series of films.

It could be argued, however, that Stone has much more in common with actresses such as Judy Garland or Debbie Reynolds, than Watson, who is perhaps suited to more elegant/serious roles. La La Land is all-American and few leads these days are quite as representative of modern day Hollywood, as Gosling and Stone.

Emma Stone has proven that she has a wide acting range. She steals the show whenever she appears onscreen, with her expressive eyes, funny mouth and husky voice. Think of her confused teen seeking to create a bad reputation for herself to prove how the rumour mill works, in Easy A; or her annoying university student who falls madly in love with her professor, only to discover he is stark raving mad, in Woody Allen’s Irrational Man. Stone is powerful when she needs to be; her scene in the Oscar-winning Birdman, in which she watches her father figuratively take flight from the burden of this world, was easily one of the most memorable. Equally strong was her performance in The Help. She is solid, intelligent, believable, a bit of a young Kathryn Hepburn, and we

totally believe that in a backward community where black helpers effectively raised children yet were given no credit by their small-minded white employers, she would be the one to stand up for the helpers’ rights (as her character did in The Help).

Ryan Gosling, too, is so much more than an ex-Disney performer.

Perhaps the film that most stands out in terms of his stellar acting ability, is Blue Valentine. Gosling is incredibly touching as a working class boy who falls in love with a medical student, loving her baby as his own and wanting nothing more than a simple life with her. Another of his greatest films was Drive, in which he plays a stunt driver/getaway man whose intense loneliness is broken when he falls in love with a young mother whose life is under threat.

La La Land is set in modern day Los Angeles, but there is definitely a retro air to it and the clothing and hair is almost more characteristic of the 1940s or 1950s than of today.

The City itself plays a central role in the film, as Chazelle told Film: “I’d like to make a contemporary musical about L.A., starting with the L.A. we know but slowly building to a vision of the city as a romantic metropolis – one that is actually worthy of the dreams it inspires.

I’d like to make a musical about the way L.A.’s peculiar rhythms can push its residents to the edge of their emotions – be they hope, desperation or love. Think the kind of teetering-toward-madness you see in The Graduate or Boogie Nights and imagine if you were to push that further. In this case, the city pushes its residents all the way: it pushes

them into song.”

Chazelle has been secretive about his film, which is set to be one of the year’s biggest blockbusters, though audiences in American theatres have been treated to sneak peaks of some of the scenes. Here is what we know so far: the footage commences with Stone walking down a sidewalk in a 1950s baby blue dress. She meanders into a club and sees Gosling playing jazz on a sexy grand piano under a spotlight. Gosling spots Stone, the lights come on and he gives her a passionate kiss. From there, we are treated to several short snippets: Stone dancing in the streets with three beautiful girls, each wearing a brightly coloured dress; the couple in a classic car driving up to the hills of Los Angeles and dancing beneath the stars until they are whisked up into the sky… it all looks, quite simply, magical.

La La Land is Damien Chazelle’s love letter to the city that invites us to dream: Los Angeles. The quiet director spoke a little about his new gem to Vanity Far, describing it as “a contemporary love story… It’s about two dreamers in Los Angeles who are trying to make it. Their dreams bring them together but also end up pulling them apart. It’s about how you kind of balance life and art and your dream life with reality, which to me is what musicals are all about.” Chazelle has also specifically identified Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers as the inspirations behind Gosling’s and Stone’s characters.

Even with the little we know, we think you will agree that all that is left to ask, is, “When can we buy our tickets?” e

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JULY 2016 / 77

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p THE FOCUS people

With over 45 years experience as a real estate agent in Marbella, few people have the knowledge and perspective of Panorama founder and CEO, Christopher Clover, whose annual market report is not surprisingly regarded as one of the most authoritative sources on the state of the local property sector. Panorama is an International Associate of Savills. Christopher is an Eminent Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

WORDS Michel cruz Photography courtesy of panorama

A perspective on

Marbella Property A

s Christopher Clover puts it, when looking at a property market like that of Marbella “you have to take the bird’s-eye view.” In other words, while studies such as Panorama’s own yearly Marbella Property Market Report might focus on new developments, statistics and trends, it is important to retain perspective and see the bigger picture against which it all plays out. Therefore, although exchange rates may rise and fall, buyers from one country replace another at the top of the table or external geopolitical factors have a ripple effect across the globe, when analysing the market you have to process all this information properly.

He refers above all to issues such as the

annulment of Marbella’s 2010 PGOU (zoning plan) at the end of last year, the political impasse that gripped Spain in the first half of the year and the uncertainty that has surrounded the recent British referendum on EU membership. “Naturally all these and many other factors influence us here, and they are all assessed in the market report,” says Clover, “but you have to differentiate between primary and peripheral factors. Don’t get me wrong, the renewed planning issues in Marbella are a spanner in the works of growth, Spain’s inability to form a government has put off some investors and the Brexit issue caused the British market to cool off while potential buyers waited for the outcome of the vote.”

Such factors create challenges of their own, but Christopher Clover has seen enough economic cycles and would-be world changing events to realise that, after the fact, life has a way of going on regardless. “There will always be issues that have a practical or psychological effect on the market, but the most important question you have to ask yourself is ‘is there still real demand for what Marbella offers’, and if the answer is yes, then the rest forms part of the oscillations life throws your way.” In other words, the above situations have undeniably had a short-term effect on the local property market, but if there is real demand it will win out in the end.

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Analysing trends “For instance, the British have had a love affair with places like Marbella for a long time, and a real tradition of buying here whose beginnings can be traced back to Margaret Thatcher’s abolition of exchange controls in 1979. That’s not going to change overnight. The British are here to stay and will continue to be a major force in this region’s property market for the foreseeable future.” In his view, Brexit and exchange rate fluctuations have a short-term impact that evens out over the longer term. “As for the PGOU issue, what it has affected above all is supply, not demand. It reduces the amount of land available for development within Marbella until a new zoning plan is approved in a few years. Until then, the most important supply of single villa plots and land for development comes from Benahavís and Estepona, where there is a good choice available and square metre prices are significantly lower. In the short term, this encourages resale prices of properties in prime Marbella areas to increase. In the long term, once the new zoning plan is released and more development land in Marbella can be built on without issue, it will help to stabilise the market, allowing for a more controlled level of growth.”

Though the gradual increase in property values over the past few months is entirely justified in

relation to a market where sales volumes and construction continue to gather pace, property experts like Christopher Clover regard the overpricing of properties as a potentially damaging factor. “Properties, like all commodities, sell at the right price, and you can upset the balance by raising it too fast. However, many sellers, seeing the return of activity to the market, have raised their prices to unrealistic levels. This can contribute to market confusion, though in the end the forces of supply and demand will always see prices revert to what is the real market value.”

Christopher insists that buyers and sellers coming into a market like this should choose their real estate agent as they would a lawyer – in a highly discerning manner. “I’ve seen countless transactions lost when there is an inexperienced agent involved. The real estate market in Spain is unregulated, and my advice is not to underestimate the value of electing to work with a well-known and experienced local agency. There are several such agencies in Marbella, and I encourage buyers and sellers to do some research to ensure they select one of them.”

The bottom line Christopher asserts that despite some issues affecting the market, demand is strong and sales

numbers continue to grow. “The big picture is always there: people want to live in Marbella.

The number of properties sold was up by almost ten per cent in 2015 versus the previous year. In 2013 and 2014 the annual growth rates reached 25 per cent as pent-up demand from people waiting for the crisis to end was released. In fact, in 2015 property sales in Marbella almost touched the record figures of 2006, and while prices are growing steadily they are nevertheless 15 to 20 per cent below 2006 levels. This figure is closer to ten per cent with the most desirable addresses that have consistently held their value. On the whole, the market offers great scope for capital growth, and today’s buyers recognise this.”

Indeed, today new projects are snapped up readily, and not infrequently sold out off-plan.

“People are even willing to wait a considerable time to get planning permission to build their own new villas in Marbella, that’s how much demand there is from an affluent buying public which is not just European, but increasingly global.” Why? It’s been said many a time, but what Marbella offers in terms of its location, climate, lifestyle, services, security and accessibility is in many ways unique, and very desirable. “The fact that you can get on the plane in most European capitals and be sitting on your terrace in Marbella within a three to four hour span is priceless. Not only is this a low-rise Mediterranean paradise with enough fulltime residents to provide a true year-round season, but it also has every outdoor sport imaginable, nature, culture and history at its doorstep. It may not sound very scientific, but these are the driving factors that keep clients coming back, whether they are new to Marbella or the third generation of buyers,” says the founder of Marbella’s longestestablished real estate firm. i www.panorama.es

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LA FINCA de MARBELLA

p THE FOCUS property

DM PROPERTIES | KNIGHT FRANK

MARKET REPORT 2016 WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DM PROPERTIES

DM Properties | Knight Frank has been publishing reports on the Marbella property market for many years, building up a reputation as an authoritative source on the factors influencing the region’s real estate sector.

I

n the 2015 edition of the DM Properties Market Report, the evolution of the real estate market recovery into a state of bona fide growth was confirmed, a picture that continues unchanged today. Driven by buoyant tourist numbers and a resurgent property sector, Marbella is thriving once more, with business start-ups in anything ranging from restaurants and bars to IT firms creating a renewed sense of vigour and enthusiasm.

That said, there are local, national and global factors that ensure this is not a simple economic upward cycle, so the picture is one of growth qualified by a series of footnotes. While we can expect continued expansion at a measured, sustainable rate for the foreseeable future, it is important to be aware of circumstances that have the potential to either temper or further stimulate growth at any time.

SALES AND PRICE TRENDS After reaching a low point in 2011,

property sales in Marbella began to rise consistently, recording yearon-year gains that have long since surpassed double digits. The trend started in Marbella and has spread, rolling outwards from the most desirable beachside locations to include more outlying areas that were first developed during the previous boom. In the beginning, it was mostly driven by the very top end of the market on the one hand and heavily discounted ‘distressed’

properties located outside the Marbella area on the other. As the unsold housing stock produced by the financial crisis was gradually absorbed, the focus shifted to new-build homes, with the first new projects launched in 2012 and growing in number ever since.

Though this has in many ways been a ‘top-down’ recovery, it gradually broadened its scope from a premium segment heavily dependent on Russian buyers to one dominated

PROPERTY SALES 2004-2015 IN MARBELLA, BENAHAVIS AND ESTEPONA

by mid to high level homes attracting cash buyers from countries such as Holland, Belgium, France, the UK, the Middle East and above all Scandinavia, enticed by the lifestyle and prestige of this region. The result has been a gradual increase in property prices (Knight Frank’s PIRI report cites a 2% increase in property prices in Marbella during 2015) that is most pronounced for new-build homes, properties and plots in top seaside and country club locations.

Source: Ministry of Public Works

Year

Benahavis

Estepona

Marbella

Total

2004

353

882

4.779

6.014

2005

412

2.244

4.047

6.703

2006

650

1.788

4.432

6.870

2007

633

2.581

3.568

6.782

2008

438

1.721

2.116

4.275

2009

559

1.086

2.199

3.844

2010

422

1.154

2.389

3.965

2011

311

1.248

2.259

3.818

2012

593

1.490

2.519

4.602

2013

532

1.669

3.106

5.307

2014

708

2.109

3.982

6.799

2015

733

2.052

4.396

7.181

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WHAT HAS CHANGED? The market conditions described so far are largely an evolution of a trend that first started with the initial recovery in 2012 and which has been gaining momentum ever since, but the November 2015 Supreme Court ruling that annulled the provisions of the 2010 PGOU (Plan General de Ordenación Urbanística) took some of the momentum out of its recently mounting growth.

Renewed uncertainty surrounds the once again to-be-defined legal status of some 16,000 properties within Marbella’s municipal boundaries, as well as exactly which pieces of land are eligible for construction and which are not.

Though there was an initial reaction and Marbella’s recurring planning issues cannot be said to do the town any favours, the demand from buyers and investors alike has been almost unchanged.

THE RISE OF SURROUNDING AREAS Even so, for the moment Marbella’s planning issues are providing a further growth stimulus for municipalities such as Benahavís, Estepona, Mijas and Ojén, which one by one have followed in the wake of the new recovery forged by their bigger, more internationally renowned neighbour. The lack of land in prime locations in Marbella and the city’s natural expansion outwards has also meant there has been an increase in demand for land in neighbouring areas in Benahavís and Estepona, where there is still room for future development.

But there is another factor contributing to this process.

Much of the significant residential investment carried out by international funds was already centred upon Estepona,

BUYER PROFILE

We have alluded to the broad range of nationalities buying into the lifestyle of the greater Marbella area, but look closer and you see that the top segment Russian buyers who dominated the market at the height of the recession have been greatly reduced in numbers. This is not essentially something to do with Marbella but largely the product of geopolitical factors of the kind that are also encouraging mostly middle class to affluent buyers from the Middle East to invest in a safe haven like the Costa del Sol.

Benahavís and Mijas before the PGOU bombshell hit Marbella in November last year. One could say that as it grows, the Costa del Sol is becoming more cohesive as the glamour appeal of Marbella is rubbing off on its neighbours. It is a process that has led Marbella, Benahavís and Estepona to jointly

brand themselves as the ‘Golden Triangle’. Already we are seeing not just new developments, but mid and top end modern complexes commanding high prices selling well in hotspots such as Santa Clara, Nueva Alcántara, La Alquería, the New Golden Mile and the western shoreline of Estepona.

RANKING OF PURCHASING NATIONALITIES IN ANDALUCIA Ranking

2013

2014

1

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

2015 United Kingdom

2

Sweden

Sweden

Sweden

3

Belgium

Belgium

Belgium

4

Norway

Russia

France

5

Russia

Norway

Germany

6

France

France

Norway

7

Germany

Germany

Morocco

8

Denmark

Morocco

Holland

Foreigners

12.35%

15.24%

15.40%

Nationals

87.65%

84.76%

84.60%

Source: College of Property Registrars

In a market dominated by properties in the price range between €1 million and €5 million, with occasional sales in the region upwards of €5 million, the strength of British buyers has abated somewhat in the face of the uncertainties the Brexit debate brought, but the longstanding love affair between the UK and Southern Spain remains fundamentally strong.

In keeping with international trends, the majority of homebuyers on the Costa del Sol right now are looking for modern/contemporary homes. In the main, these can be defined as apartments and villas that feature sleek whitewashed architecture, floor-to-ceiling windows, open-plan living areas incorporating modern style kitchens and the latest styles in bathrooms

and terrace areas. In villas there has been a move towards somewhat more compact and easily maintained properties

THE BIGGER PICTURE In terms of investment and development, the move is towards bigger projects, with the bespoke smaller urbanisations that dominated the earlier phases of the construction revival now being gradually overshadowed by largerscale enterprises that can once again count on participation from major banks. It is a trend that we have seen before, and one that both confirms the current growth cycle and its transition from a recovery market into a more mature upward phase in which buyer and seller

are well balanced. Having transitioned out of a ‘buyer’s market’ the next step is for Marbella real estate to become a ‘seller’s market’ in prime locations in the coming years, provided growth continues at this pace.

As real estate is back in vogue as an investment option among the world’s wealthy but previously booming markets such as London, New York, Hong Kong and Switzerland are cooling off, regions such as our own stand to gain – not just because of the glamour and lifestyle it offers, but also because property here is still regarded as offering both value for money and the potential for capital growth. i www.dmproperties.com

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d the style

INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART DESIGN GARDENS FASHION

86

Roche Bobois Summer Collection

94

Blackshaw Interior Design Retail Projects

96

Jungle Fever Hot Summer Wear

108 Fashion News

ENJOY THE COLOURFUL SUMMER COLLECTION FROM ROCHE BOBOIS, DISCOVER THE RETAIL DESIGN TALENTS OF THE TEAM AT BLACKSHAW INTERIOR DESIGN, IMMERSE YOURSELF IN HOT SUMMER FASHION, AND MAKE SURE TO PURCHASE AT LEAST ONE ITEM FROM OUR FASHION NEWS SUGGESTIONS.

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BoConcept

Urban Danish Design since 1952

NEW OPENING IN MARBELLA

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Cane-line

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d THE STYLE decor

A

CELE BRATION OF COLOUR Roche Bobois Summer Collection Known for its quality and design, luxury décor brand Roche Bobois is celebrating this summer with a chic splash of colour that will add life to your home – inside and out.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ROCHE BOBOIS

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T

he name Roche Bobois is associated with style, comfort, quality and the highest credentials of design. The exclusive marque’s in-house designers have created many an outstanding collection of furniture pieces and accessories ranging from lights and carpets to side tables and soft furnishings, accompanied by other ranges from the pens of an impressive list of world famous industrial designers, architects and leading names in the world of fashion. Among them are the likes of Jean Paul Gaultier and Christian Lacroix, whose Nouveau Classique collection features the kind of edgy chic demanded by sophisticated urban tastes.

Impactful, opulent and very personal, this is not a collection intended for the ‘mass’ market, but rather a select offering designed for those who are looking for wow factor and attitude in the interiors of their luxurious homes. Christian Lacroix’s designs for Roche Bobois encompass both light furniture items such as gilded tables and beautifully decorated screens with a touch of chinoiserie, as well as elegant chairs, plush carpets and sumptuous soft furnishings, with butterfly cushions that have proved very hard to resist. “It’s a collection that is not for beginners, so to speak, but exactly what some of our more demanding clients in this area look for,” says Cécile Peyrard of Roche Bobois Marbella.

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The Traveler Collection What many clients have also been looking forward to is the seasonal collection of outdoor furniture and decorative pieces that carry the brand’s celebrated seal of quality and style. Though above all famous for its ability to transform interior spaces into luxurious living environments full of atmosphere and refinement, Roche Bobois also produces beautifully designed and crafted collections made exactly for the kind of al fresco living for which Marbella is so famous.

Penned by Stephen Burks, the American designer also renowned for his collaboration with Dedon, the Outdoor Collection 2016 is a wonderful departure from the heavy colours and forms that seem to dominate many a terrace both in Marbella and elsewhere.

“The new collection suits the Marbella lifestyle perfectly, and as an extension of indoor sophistication, style and comfort it also adds a vivacious sense of colour and joy to any outdoor living area.” Burks has sought to rediscover the fun of furniture, and how it can create a welcoming, friendly and yet elegant ambience.

With its lightweight but durable chairs, tables and terrace sofas in friendly colours that celebrate the summer season and put a smile on your face, style has just become joyous too. “The main colour tone of the Traveler Collection is an infectiously sunny combination of orange and yellow tempered with a touch of sky blue.

The mix really helps to brighten up terraces, outdoor lounges and pool

areas, contrasting wonderfully with the prevailing greens and blues.”

The series enables you to dine, lounge and entertain in style with a variety of dining sets, cocktail tables, armchairs, comfy sofas and snug ‘hooded’ sun chairs that are made to withstand the outdoor weather. For those who prefer the classic freshness of white tones, there is an alternative tone option across the range, accompanied by soft blue and light grey cushions or an overall grey finish for a more subdued outdoor chic. Cécile is hoping that Traveler will add a splash of colour to Marbella homes this season, an endeavour that will be further enhanced by the Airflower inflatable armchairs.

Featuring iconic designer styling,

these glamorous bubble seats relive the fun and frivolity of the sixties.

“There is an infusion of colour across the Roche Bobois design collections this year,” says Cécile, who loves the idea of enlivening contemporary interior and exterior living areas with a sense of fun and enjoyment. “Retro styles can achieve this. They say you should surround yourself with the things that make you happy, and this kind of furniture creates the setting for just that.” Not surprisingly, the Traveler collection is not an exercise in the abstract, for it has been conceived to blend in with other décor styles and complements Roche Bobois’ own interiors, decorative pieces, lighting and tableware beautifully.

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Bel Air chic Somewhat more sober in tone and solid in stature is the luxurious Bel Air series by designer Sacha Lakic.

The author of many iconic Roche Bobois collections, he is a master at blending functionality and eyecatching design, and has once again achieved this with the sturdy but sleek lounge beds and imaginatively styled side tables, while the floating pool tables are an innovation that is very practical in a languidly glamorous way. Different tone combinations are available, also in the stylish outdoor lounge and dining sets that are further enlivened with brightly toned and decorated cushions.

Together they create just the setting for a season of outdoor enjoyment in the finest of taste. Naturally the

materials are highly weather resistant and durable, so your terrace furniture will look the part without having to be dragged back indoors all the time. In true Roche Bobois style, each collection is complemented by a range of show-stealing designer beauties such as the transparent and opaque moulded Ava chairs or fun ‘bulb tables’ that are available in a variety of colours and also go well with the rather more solid Saga range of comfy chairs and sofas. The latter adds a natural touch with organic wooden style elements. Even if you insist upon a more neutral main colour theme, there is every opportunity to add diversion and a sense of summer celebration through a whole variety of attractive summer tones this summer.

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The Macaron pouf, versatile and attractive

WATCH OUT FOR SEPTEMBER

The mesmerising style and colour of the Moorea buffet

Contemporary sophistication: the Astragale side cabinet

It isn’t just the summer outdoor season that brings beautiful shades of blue, green, purple and warm-toned oranges; Roche Bobois continues the theme into the autumn with its stylish but vibrant new indoor collection being released in September. As a reaction to the stifling rigidity that dominated the world’s interiors and was regarded as synonymous with contemporary style a few years ago, this selection of tables, armchairs, poufs, lights, sofas like the beautifully styled Odea, as well as sideboards and decorative accessories, is altogether more welcoming.

Partly drawn from retro-chic themes, it is injected with joie de vivre in the shapes, fabrics and colour schemes that no longer aim to add a little colour through small details alone but allow you to explore a wider range of décor options.

This unshackling of design from the confines of austere minimalism fits right in with the Roche Bobois ethos of making furniture for living homes, yet it is never at the expense of style, innovation or quality. Quite the opposite, for this year’s autumn collection allows you to go for seamless refinement or make bold statements in your home – the choice is yours.

Light and young at heart, the collection includes the ‘Macaron’ seat that is as comfortable as it is versatile and practical, due to a clever movement that allows you to change your position and move the back rest around without losing support. True to the spirit of Roche Bobois, 2016 is the year of colour, with collections that bring the fun back into creating luxurious interiors.

g ROCHE BOBOIS MARBELLA, C. C. Torre Real, A-7, Km 185, C/ Deborah Kerr s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 777 858. www.roche-bobois.com

Immaculate design style of the Odea armchair

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d THE STYLE decor

Blackshaw Interior Design

Breathing Design into Retail Premises Savvy homeowners know that when it comes to interiors, few teams are as talented, efficient and trustworthy, as Blackshaw Interior Design. Founded and managed by Sally Blackshaw, an interior designer who specialised in retail design and marketing at university, the firm is famed for having completed a selection of luxury villas along the Coast, though commercial design is another of its driving passions. WORDS Marisa cutillas Photography kevin horn

R

etail, in fact, is on Sally’s mind the day of my visit to her stunning showroom. She greets me in her usual warm manner, which lifts the spirit and puts one at ease instantly (probably one of the reasons why clients love dealing with her). She is beaming with excitement about two recent projects: the PureSkin Spa at the Oasis Business Centre on the Golden Mile, and Tartufo restaurant in the Old Town. “When it comes to retail,” she enthuses, “customers have an instinctive idea of whether or not something is well designed. They can’t exactly pinpoint why; it’s just a feeling they have. What makes or breaks good design is whether or not the space exactly

fits the business’ purpose and values; the design should create the right ambience for the product or service being offered.”

PureSkin Spa is a perfect instance of highend design meeting function. Sally entrusted this project to Lucy, a talented designer who is incredibly creative, as can be gleaned from her work on this assignment. “In this case, the retail concept involved beauty, so we dressed the interiors in various shades of nude and gold.”

Indeed, the feeling I received when I walked in was of absolute warmth and protection. Wall paint effects, solid wood floors and gorgeous details such as delicate hanging lamps in the

treatment rooms (filled with gold glitter) and gold shelves in the reception (which is also a product retail area) express glamour and warmth all at once. Structure, too, plays an important role. Sally says, “We added a curved structure to the walls, to imitate the form of the human body and to make the spa experience more organic.” She tells me that retail design is fascinating for any interior designer, since “it allows you to be more creative and to design with a particular concept or theme in mind.” The PureSkin project was challenging indeed, since “it involved complete construction from a shell, which did not even have running water or electricity.”

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Ristorante Il Tartufo is another recently finished project. The brainchild of husband-and-wife team Emanuele and Hollie Crisci, the dining haven is famed for its traditional cuisine and top quality ingredients sourced from Italy. Emanuele and Hollie have worked hard to turn their restaurant into the success it is – they originally operated from a small locale, also in Marbella centre, eventually moving to their current spot in the now-iconic dining haven, Calle Tetuán. Il Tartufo is famed for its gorgeous outdoor terrace, ensconced on one of the most romantic patios in the old Town and looking out to a romantic old church tower.

A need for change arose when Emanuele and Hollie were able to acquire the upper floor of Il Tartufo, which had served until recently as residential premises. Significant work was required – a new open kitchen was built, as well as an elevator and a room for private dinners upstairs.

“Dealing with these old spaces takes a professional and experienced team which knows the important of adhering to all regulations,” says Sally.

Because the cuisine at Il Tartufo is traditional, Emanuele and Hollie opted for a rustic feel, without going overboard: “The overall look is cosy yet contemporary,” notes Sally. Touches like the front antique wooden door, iron lamps and copper food warmers are married to modern details such as ‘broken paint effect’ silver walls, contemporary

tables and chairs, modernistic art work on the walls and even wooden menus!

The restaurant is full of small yet noteworthy touches – take the glass panel cork art work in the bathroom, or the sophisticated gold lion faucet. The shelf in the upper floor also caught our attention, with its blend of glasses, wine bottles and books.

Clients turn to Blackshaw Interior Design not only because of their talented designers but rather, because they offer a true ‘all-in-one’ service. The company takes care of everything from town hall visits for permits, through to architecture, design, logo creation, construction and renovation. They have their own in-house specialists in electricity, water, kitchens, etc., so you only need to deal with one person when you visit. Moreover, working with trusted suppliers and builders means that deadlines are met and you can begin to enjoy the fruits of your brand new retail space. Blackshaw Interior Designs’ many services include marketing – Sally and her team will help you design a full package – including your company logo, which should speak the same language as the rest of your interiors. g Avda. Cánovas del Castillo 25, Marbella.

Tel: 951 403 787/681 662 000. www.blackshawinteriordesign.com

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d THE STYLE fashion

Jungle

Fever

Summer spells exoticism, vivaciousness and fun, especially when you deck yourself out in the season’s sexiest beachwear collections. Take your pick from these wild and wicked ensembles…

Production and photography Irene Sekulic model Ana Santos Stylist Noelia Alvarez Make up & hair Liza Mayne Florist Irina Timofeeva

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Necklace Queen of Queens Marbella Bag Versace Shorts Loretta Piovano

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Caftan DANIELA POGGI Headdress Irina Timofeeva Jewellery Queen of Queens Marbella

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Find your nearest Sunglass Hut store at www.sunglasshut.com Georgia May Jagger is wearing Tiffany TF3051B and Ray-Ban RB4246. Brandon is wearing Persol PO8649S and Oakley OO9353.

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Hermanas Maldonado Dance Academy

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Founded in 1976

Classes in Regional Dance, Classical Spanish and Flamenco. From 3 years.

Tel: 952 860 813

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Swimsuit Victoria's Secret Skirt Amen Jewellery Queen of Queens Marbella

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d THE STYLE fashion Shorts and Top by Miss Selfridge

Nec

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Link s of Lond on

Bag by Laura Ashley

Ring by Links of London

Deck your tanned bod with one of these sizzling outfits and accessories and be the belle of any beach party, ball or banquet! compiled by Marisa cutillas

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n the spa

PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA SCIENCE TREATMENTS HEALTH

112

Summer Skin and Hair

114

Beauty News

116

Summer Health Tips

118

Health News

120 Dr. Panno – Hair Transplant Specialist

July is the perfect month to rest, recuperate and up your beauty factor. Catch our tips on how to have beautiful summer skin and hair, beat the summer heat and enjoy reading our health and beauty news.

We also interview hair restoration specialist, Dr. Panno.

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Your Health and Beauty Clinic in Marbella

Love of Beauty is Taste The Creation of Beauty is Art

Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery Cosmetic Dentistry Vascular Surgery Orthopaedic Surgery Bariatric Surgery 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 FOR YOUR HAIR:

Summer is one of the best times for our health, yet also one of the hardest on our skin and hair. The sun is the obvious culprit, since its intense rays can burn and dry skin, and leave hair looking a little less than lustrous. Marisa Cutillas suggests some tips to avoid the most common skin and hair problems of the season.

FOR YOUR SKIN:

Z PROTECT YOUR SKIN AGAINST BURNS BY WEARING A PHYSICAL BLOCK SUNSCREEN INSTEAD OF A CHEMICAL ONE. Chemicals in sunscreens can consume your body’s natural enzymes and introduce harmful chemicals into your body.

Physical block products reflect UVA and UVB rays away from your face; they have the same effect as wearing a hat. Remember that chemical sunscreens can add to the already overwhelming number of toxins your skin is currently exposed to on a daily basis. If skin has already been burned, cool it down with an ice pack and consider applying a hydrocortisone cream.

Z PIGMENTATION: The sun can bring out dark spots and freckles, which can be a real bugbear for women who like their skin to have a smooth, satiny finish. While there are a wide range of products specifically designed to reduce the appearance of sun spots, one very popular treatment for this condition is Fraxel laser, which also reduces acne scars and flaccidity.

DRY LIPS:

To soothe cracked lips, apply a lip balm containing a soothing butter, which will combat the damage caused by sea water and the sun.

Z OILY SKIN: If your skin is excessively oily, it may actually be because it needs more (non oil-based) hydration. Cleanse skin with a foaming cleanser then soak it in a gel-based moisturiser such as Kiehl’s Ultra Facial OilFree Gel Cream. Use a matte primer prior to applying your matte foundation and make sure to top up with powder.

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Z TAME THE FRIZZ: Those with dry hair really notice the proliferation of split ends and frizzy locks as the warm months approach. Some of the best products against this condition include Shu Uemura Art of Hair Wonder Workers (a leave-in product that stops the sun from damaging hair).

Redken Frizz Dismiss Smoothing Control Cream is a wonderful product for medium- to high-humidity weather. Regardless of the product you choose, remember that when it comes to frizzy hair, prevention is better than cure. Whenever you plan on being out in the sun, apply a protective product so that the problem never happens – once it does, the best solution is possibly a good cut.

Z AVOID HOT STYLING EQUIPMENT: While you probably won’t be able to avoid blow drying your hair, you can limit the damage by investing in a good ionic dryer, which will help you obtain the result you want while using a lower heat setting.

Straightening irons can be even more damaging, since they expose hair to very high temperatures.

Once again, the extra spend for an agave vapour iron is well worth it; this type of iron sends oil vapour through tiny holes to protect your hair and add shine. Irons made with silicone-embedded ceramic plates will also afford greater protection.

Z PROTECT YOUR COLOUR: If you are swimming in a chlorinated pool, try to use a swim cap; it may not be the most glamorous accessory about, but it will really help your hair maintain its colour. Use a protective product prior to hitting the pool or beach and during the summer, we recommend a colour protecting shampoo such as L’Oréal’s Color Vibrancy Nourishing Shampoo. For a chic look, wear a wide headband or turban to stop the sun from altering the colour of streaks. Also, try using a dry shampoo, since over-washing can lead to colour loss.

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n THE SPA beauty WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

This month we pay homage to the special man in our lives, with products that will make them more handsome, fragrant and sensual than we ever thought possible!

1 – SAVON LIQUIDE DE MARSEILLE THE NOIR BY AMARA: This luxury shower gel bears a hint of black tea, a masculine fragrance for the man who likes to make a statement.

2 – BODY BALM BLACK JASMINE BY AMARA: A hydrating balm containing organic olive oil, softening rice bran, and the sunny scent of jasmine.

3 – BOIS NEF BATH OIL BY HOTEL CHOCOLAT: A deeply hydrating oil for men who like to de-stress in the bath.

4 – SAMURAI BODY SCRUB BY RITUALS: An invigorating facial scrub for baby smooth skin.

5 – SAMURAI SHAVE BY RITUALS: A luxury foaming shave gel refreshed with basil and ginseng.

6 – CK ONE FOR HIM BY CALVIN KLEIN: Pear and crisp aldehydes are married to black pepper and ginger, giving way to a vetiver, tonka and musk base.

7 – HUNGARY WATER EAU DE COLOGNE BY CRABTREE & EVELYN: We love this gorgeous rosemary based cologne, blended with uplifting notes of pink pepper, spearmint, cyprus and geranium.

8 – ADVENTURER BY ARAMIS: This woody fragrance is aromatic, fresh spicy, citrus and bitter all at once, making it the perfect daytime summer fragrance.

i AMARA: www.amara.com ARAMIS AND CALVIN KLEIN FRAGRANCES: www.thefragranceshop.co.uk CRABTREE & EVELYN: www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk HOTEL CHOCOLAT: www.hotelchocolat.com RITUALS: www.eu.rituals.com

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n THE SPA health

WE’RE HAVING A

HEATWAVE! E

urope has experienced warmer weather over the past decades, with severe heat waves recorded in 2010 and 2015. New research published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, compiled by scientists from 13 countries, has found that changes in the temperature during the summer season is much more dramatic than expected, owing largely to major volcanic eruptions and changes in the amount of energy obtained from the sun. The scientists studied changes in temperature over the past 2,100 years, finding that variation in temperatures are far from normal. Their research serves as a predictor of the future effects of global warming and as a caution that we need to make drastic changes or the Planet will continue suffering the effects of climate change.

From a health perspective, rising temperatures (and heatwaves in particular) can be deadly. During a particularly strong heatwave in 2003, around 30,000 excess deaths occurred in Europe. Extreme temperatures are particularly dangerous for older persons, young children, and those facing chronic illness. Those with Parkinson’s disease, mobility problems, serious mental health problems and substance abuse problems are also at a greater risk, as are those who take medication that may affect the degree to which they sweat, and those who work in physically active professions. The Spanish Public Health Department recommends taking the following steps to avoid heat stroke:

Z Drink frequently: Aim for an intake of at least two litres daily. Consume water, juice, or isotonic drinks.

Z Avoid certain drinks, including alcohol, excess caffeine or high-sugar beverages, which have a diuretic effect.

Z Eat light meals that help restore mineral salts lost through sweat; recommended dishes include light gazpachos, cold salads and vegetables. Avoid heavy, hot meals.

Z Protect yourself against the heat and avoid being outside during peak hours of sun.

Z Don’t make too much of an effort when it is hot and don’t play outdoor sports from 12pm to 5pm.

Z Use light coloured clothing and cover your head with a hat or cap.

Z Don’t leave anybody (or any pet), in a car which is exposed to the sun.

Z If you are on medication and you begin to notice unusual symptoms, see your doctor.

Z If you are feeling ill because of the heat, ask for help from a neighbour or friend. If nobody is near, call your Town Hall and ask to speak to Social Services.

Z Watch out for signs of dehydration, including muscle cramps, heat rashes and a feeling of dizziness, headaches, nausea, etc. If you have any of these symptoms, stop what you are doing and make rehydration your first priority.

Z If your symptoms worsen, visit your health centre or call an ambulance.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Additional advice includes:

Z Use light coloured, reflective curtains and keep windows closed.

Z Have frequent cool baths or showers.

Z Plan ahead and stock your refrigerator with food, so you don’t have to rush out in the middle of the day for a last minute item.

Z Ensure that friends and relatives who are living alone are coping well.

Z Consider installing air conditioning in your home.

The warmest months can take their toll on the health of those with heart conditions, including pets with illnesses such as congestive heart disease. Use box or ceiling fans if air conditioning is not possible. Signs that your pet is suffering from stroke include rapid panting, hot skin, drooling, vomiting and twitching.

Z Stay downstairs; the temperature tends to be cooler in the lower floors of a home.

Z Eliminate unnecessary sources of heat, such as incandescent light bulbs, computers and appliances that don’t need to be turned on. e

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Enjoy the Relaxing Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat RESTAURANT - SPA - YOGA - HOTEL

Ctra. de Ojen km 22 - A355 Monda - Marbella Tel: 952 86 44 55 or 628 79 30 13

www.shantisom.com

Open daily for lunch to the public

...only 10 minutes from Marbella

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n THE SPA health WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Over 100,000 Children Have

SLEEP APNEA IN SPAIN The Hospital Vithas Xanit recently published news warning parents about a problem that is plaguing over 100,000 children in Spain: that of sleep apnea – a condition in which breathing during sleep is interrupted by over 10 seconds, sometimes resulting in one or more hours of inadequate oxygenation in a single night. In children the condition can arise between the ages of one and six, with symptoms including loud snoring, breathing problems during the night, sleepiness during the day, difficulty in concentrating and behavioural problems. It is vital that children be diagnoses and treated for sleep apnea, since the condition can be the trigger for other pathologies which arise in adulthood, including arterial hypertension and atherosclerosis. Even growth can be affected, since the condition is sometimes linked to a decrease in the liberation of the growth hormone.

CHUBBY LABRADORS Enlighten Us on Obesity

Scientists at Cambridge University have confirmed something we have long suspected: that obesity is partly a genetic issue. The breed was found to be more likely than others to become obese, because of a gene difference.

Despite the fact that dogs (and people) gain weight when they consume more calories than they need to function, the truth is that there is some hard-wired biology behind the urge to indulge. Labradors are more interested in food than other breeds, and this fact, combined with a lack of exercise and an excessive intake of food, can lead to an average 2kg weight increase when compared to dogs who do not have the ‘obesity gene’.

JUST ONE MINUTE OF EXERCISE

is Great for Your Health

We’ve all been guilty at some point of uttering the statement, “I’m just too busy to exercise!” Despite knowing the many documented benefits of training, sometimes we just don’t have the energy to work out after a hard day at work. Researchers at McMaster University have set out to prove that we’ve got it all wrong, since just one minute of intense exercise has powerful effects, similar to a long, tough workout. They found that just one minute of Sprint Interval Training (SIT) provides the same results as Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT). Martin J. Gibala, head researcher, noted that for busy people, an interval-based approach is the answer to simply not having enough time for longer workouts. Just climbing up a few flights of stairs during a break can provide all the exercise you need to stay heart-healthy and fit.

An analysis of 50 years of research has revealed that the more children are spanked, the more likely they are to clash with their parents and to have signs of anti-social behaviour, anger, cognitive problems and mental health issues. The review, published in the Journal of Family Psychology, is the most complex analysis to date of the results of spanking and it involves over 160,000 children. In addition to having long-term consequences for a child’s mental health, spanking results in a child doing the opposite of what a parent is telling them to – therefore, sparing the rod actually seems to save, rather than spoil, the child!

FIVE DECADES OF RESEARCH CONFIRM

HARM FROM SPANKING

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n THE SPA health

The Hair You

Always Wanted with

DR. PANNO, HAIR TRANSPLANT SPECIALIST

For those with abundant hair, it can be difficult to appreciate exactly how harrowing hair loss can be.

Around 50 per cent of men experience some degree of hair loss and women, too, can suffer from alopecia or generalised hair loss as the years go by. In the past, we were told to ‘grin and bear it’, that hair loss was simply genetic and there was little we could do to end the devastating process. Today, both men and women can avail of a plethora of techniques – surgical and cosmetic – to have the beautiful hair they always wanted. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

DR. PANNO’S GROUNDBREAKING HAIR TRANSPLANTATION TECHNIQUES

Dr. Ezequiel Panno, Hair Transplant Specialist, has dedicated his life to hair restoration. Some 14 years ago, he developed a groundbreaking technique relying on ‘trichophytic invisible sutures’, to make hair restoration quick, minimally invasive and scar-free. When we say ‘quick’, we’re talking a two-day break before going back to work! The technique requires no stitches, causes minimal trauma to the scalp and minimal swelling, and is carried out under local anaesthetic.

Dr. Panno sadly notes that more and more of his time is being taken up by botched transplants, which result in bald spots, scarring, unsatisfactory hair growth direction, etc. “Hair transplantation is an investment; it lasts forever when it is done well so it is vital to have the procedure done once (but well) rather than have to return various times and end up paying an exorbitant price.”

Interestingly, hair transplantation and restoration can involve various parts of the face, including the beard, moustache and even the eyebrows! Dr. Panno’s

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i-Brow technique involves a combination of transplantation and micropigmentation, resulting in the gorgeous, lush brows made popular

by Hollywood celebrities.

Dr. Panno and team actually use three different techniques for hair transplantation. He explains: “The first technique is called Micro Follicular Unit Extraction (Micro FUE). In the past, a follicular unit was first extracted, comprising around four hairs. My technique allows us to extract just two hairs per unit, so there is no visible scarring in the area of extraction.

Moreover, we leave stem cells behind, so the extracted hair has between 20 and 40 per cent chance of regrowth.” Great care is taken to select the right hair (in terms of fineness and hair growth direction).

The proof is in the pudding; check out Dr. Panno’s site for photographs of the beautiful, natural looking hair which, thankfully, has a lifetime guarantee.

The second technique, called FUT (Follicular Unit Extraction) involves transplantation of a strip of skin; Dr. Panno employs ‘trichophytic closure’ to totally eliminate scarring; in fact, hair grows out of the scar area, leading to a uniform look throughout the

head.

The third technique employs a combination of Micro FUE and FUT; “This technique is necessary when there are very significant areas of baldness. The technique takes two sessions to complete and once again, downtime is only two days.”

NON-SURGICAL HAIR RESTORATION

Dr. Panno takes a highly personalised approach to clients, offering a wider range of solutions for thinning, falling or dry hair. “We can use either a patient’s own hair growth factors or medication, to stimulate growth.” Patients are followed up every month, to monitor changes in hair growth.

Some of the most effective non-invasive approaches include Low-Level Laser Light therapy, LED light therapy, Carboxy therapy, and Virtual Mesotherapy. These can be used alongside or as an alternative to specific medications and supplements. The key to success, notes Dr. Panno, is “personalisation. One medication won’t necessarily work the same for two different patients; we can determine the best medical solution or combination of treatments for each patient.”

About Dr. Panno and Team

Dr. Panno has performed over seven thousand surgeries and served over 10,000 patients. After obtaining his medical degree in Buenos Aires, he began specialising in hair transplants and capillary medicine, which he practised in Brazil, Canada and USA before obtaining his certification in Spain, where he has been practising for 11 years, obtaining recognition from his peers and winning the European Citizen of Outstanding Character Award, among others. Dr. Panno gives lectures at universities throughout Spain and collaborates exclusively with Grupo Pedro Jaen of Madrid one of the most prestigious dermatologists in Spain.

In Marbella, he is joined by a highly qualified team, which includes Laura Krys, Hair Transplant Surgery Nurse and Patient Coordinator. The team speaks an array of languages, including Spanish, English, Portuguese, Russian and French.

g At Hospital Banús Humanline. CN340, km 176, Marbella. Tel: 952 586 286. www.drpanno.com

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REINVENTING HEALTH CARE

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z z THE PRO enterprise

the pro

ENTERPRISE LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILES FINANCE/LAW THE VIBE

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

DOM3 PRIZE PRESENTED AT FINCA CONCEPCIÓN DOM3, the association for high-end property on the Coast, recently held the second edition of its prestigious DOM3 Architectural Prize. Every year, the world’s top architects vie for the €40.000 prize, which was won this year by the project entitled Community by Design, presented

by Architect, David Tuan of Tuan and Co (Marbella) alongside Mathieu Lébre.

The second prize (€20.000) went to the project Domus Aqua by CMA Arquitectura y Q Arquitectura (Madrid), while the third prize (€10.000) was taken home by the project Tierra Nueva,

by JRDR Arquitectura (Marbella) in collaboration with Shangai Four o Nine. i www.dome3.es

RUNWAY MÁLAGA A HUGE SUCCESS Málaga’s most important fashion event, Runway Málaga, set the town on fire recently, turning the city centre into a red carpet catwalk. A host of designers showed off their wares thanks to the talent on the catwalk of gorgeous models. The event ended with a bang, thanks to the presentation of a stunning shoe collection designed by top TV presenter, María Teresa Campos. Some of the talented designers who joined Ms. Campos include Montesco, Jesús Segado, Antonio Zorrilla, Vero Moda, Txano Complementos and Lytsya Fashion Showroom. i www.nuevamoda.com

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Exclusive Cars Presented at C. De Salamanca

© @queengallego

C. De Salamanca recently wowed car lovers with two impressive releases. First up, members of the international press enjoyed a test of some of the company's prestigious marques, including the new Ghibli, Maserati’s first fullsized luxury sedan segment car, delivering twin-turbo V6 gasoline power, an efficient diesel engine, all-wheel drive and undiminished luxury. At a subsequent event, guests viewed the beautiful Ferrari GTC4Lusso up close, marvelling at the cutting edge design of this new, four-seater car, which boasts the famous Ferrari GT V12 motor and delivers top power and discretion all at once. i www.cdesalamanca.com

Holiday Golf Opens Largest Showroom in Southern Europe Holiday Golf, leading distributor of golf equipment in Spain and Portugal, has inaugurated Southern Europe’s largest specialist showroom with a social event organised at its headquarters in Nueva Andalucía (Marbella). Stefan Tjellander, Holiday Golf’s CEO, hosted the opening accompanied by Michael Campbell, 2005 US Open champion, and Javier Porcuna, Deputy Mayor and Tourism Delegate of the Marbella City Council, receiving golf course managers, retailers, golfers and friends. The new facilities have doubled in size to approximately 1,500 m2 as a result of a major investment of €500.000. In the spectacular new 220 m2 showroom, each brand distributed by Holiday Golf has its own corner, including AHEAD, Bettinardi Golf, Bridgestone Golf, Callaway Apparel, Cutter & Buck, Daily Sports, ECCO, Garmin, Glenmuir, Golfino, Oakley, Ofelia T, Peter Millar, TomTom and Vitamin Well. i www.holgolf.com

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New Offices for Pérez Legal Group The Pérez Legal Group is pleased to announce the opening of its brand new offices, which are more spacious than their previous premises and beautifully laid out. The renowned law firm, led by Raquel Pérez will continue providing fiscal, accounting and legal services at Avda. Ricardo

Soriano 4, 1st floor, Marbella. www.perezlegalgroup.com

Bakar: New Fashion Boutique at Finca Cortesín The scenic courtyard of the stunning Finca Cortesín Resort is now home to a brand new fashion boutique called Bakar. Featuring everything from iconic Cire Trudon candles to Filu hats, boho dresses by Thierry Colson Paris and so much more. i www.fincacortesin.com

Cultural Encounters at Trocadero Arena Chic beachside restaurant and bar, Trocadero Arena, was the perfect backdrop for the latest event by Encuentros Con la Cultura (journalist Amparo de la Gama’s heartfelt effort to enrich Marbella culturally). Attendees were presented with the new book, Mi Diario de Yoga, written by renowned yogi, Xuan-Lan Trinh. The book is a practical guide to physical and mental health, with advice on how to find mental and physical equilibrium in four weeks through exercises in meditation, breathing, and asanas. After the presentation, Xuan-Lan gave a wonderful yoga master class by the beach. i For further

information, encuentrosconlacultura@gmail.com

Students at Swans International School Celebrate the Arts Swans International School recently presented Inspire 2016, in collaboration with MIUC, to celebrate the arts. The event, held at the Kasser Rassu Gallery, featured art, music, performance, film and more. Swans has specialised in education for over 45 years and has beautiful primary and secondary school premises. i www.swansschoolinternational.es

EZ Home Solutions Holds Open Day in San Pedro EZ Home Solutions, a company boasting over 25 years’ experience, recently held an open day at its San Pedro de Alcántara showroom to acquaint guests with its latest products and services. Live demos were provided by in-house experts, to a lively backdrop of complementary entertainment, drinks and canapés, courtesy of EZ Entertainment, a subsidiary of the company involved in event and party planning. EZ Home Solutions is dedicated to the automatisation of homes, retail areas, corporate buildings and more. They also specialise in audiovisual integration, home cinema, design and lighting control. i www.e-z-home-solutions.com

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New Laser for Cataract Removal at the Vithas Xanit The Vithas Xanit International Hospital in Benalmádena is pleased to announce that it has just expanded its ophthalmology services to include laser removal of cataracts, one of the most frequent ocular pathologies among patients over a certain age. The condition causes everything from blurry vision to increased sensitivity to light, the need to change glasses frequently, etc. The new laser allows specialists to treat cataracts, as well as presbyopia, astigmatism and myopia. The Vithas Xanit also recently hosted a conference attended by 220 paediatricians concerning infections diseases such as ebola and zika, and on the new calendar of vaccines. i www.xanit.es

Rotary Club Marbella Guadalmina Raises €6.000 for Hogar Betania in La Línea Members and supporters of Rotary Club Marbella Guadalmina enjoyed a great day out on a car run to the Guadalhorce Valley, followed by lunch at Restaurant El Mirador overlooking the tranquil lakes. Thanks to the supporters and sponsors of the event, €6.000 was raised for the benefit of Hogar Betania in La Linea, which Rotary has been helping for the past two years. Hogar Betania provides food and accommodation for the local destitute of La Línea, designated one of the poorest areas of Spain. RC Marbella Guadalmina wish to thank their sponsors, Bsure Insurance Brokers, Restaurante Palato, Classic Cars Marbella, Survey Spain and many of the individuals who made generous donations to the fundraising. i www.rotaryclub-marbella-g.org

Joe’s Bar by Dillys is Back!

Joe’s Bar, a major institution during the late 1980s and 1990s in Marbella, has reopened at the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Often called the ‘friend’s club,’ for its relaxed and unpretentious vibe, the bar was frequented by such famous faces as Michael Hutchence (from INXS) and Prince. Managed by international club aficionado Dillys, who spent years in the music scenes of New York, London and Amsterdam, the venue was a place for music enthusiasts to come together, sip designer cocktails and listen to the best funk, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s tracks.

The newly reopened bar is the ideal place for hotel guests and locals keen on seeing familiar faces, listening to cool music and enjoying their nights in Marbella. i www.puenteromano.com

San Pedro Apartments Celebrates its 10 Year Anniversary San Pedro Apartments opened its doors in July 2006. Since then, the family run business has grown steadily and developed considerably. The company will be celebrating 10 years as an apart-hotel and to mark the occasion the business has expanded into property sales. The team promises to maintain its commitment moving forward into the future, as it has done throughout the past 10 years, to continuously progress and improve their services for new and existing clients. g For further information, Tel: 952 787 565.

www.sanpedro61.com

Beautiful Décor Items and Handicrafts from Indonesia and Thailand at Deco-Home If you are looking to add an exotic touch to your home or seeking the perfect present for a friend or spouse, Deco-Home on the Mijas road is your one-stop shop for fair trade items imported from Indonesia and Thailand. DecoHome products come directly from local village artisans, since the company is committed to supporting indigenous cultures via fair living wages and sustainable practices. Some of the many items you will find at Deco-Home include furniture, indoor and outdoor lighting, jewellery, pottery, mirrors, paintings, unusual pieces in teak wood, statues (including Buddha and Ganesha), stone or wood carved animals and so much more. g Mijas Road, km4, between

Fuengirola and Mijas village.

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© Jonathan Mañasco

Orange Beach Club Celebrates the Start of Summer Orange Beach Club at the Don Carlos Leisure Resort & Spa heralded the summer with a swish party attended by friends, clients and business colleagues. The club, which measures over 3,675m2, offers guests chilled music, a beautiful pool, Balinese beds, delicious dishes and cool cocktails, all with a stunning view of the Mediterranean. Diners can choose from a range of fish and rice options, as well as dishes made with local produce. i www.doncarlosresort.expohotels.com

Miss Gibraltar 2016 One of the hottest events in Gibraltar every year is the Miss Gibraltar competition, held at the John Mackintosh Hall Theatre. The winner was Kayley Mifsud, aged 24, a Health and Safety Coordinator, who said she “never thought this would happen” and effusively thanked everyone who had supported her, especially her family and friends. i www.missgibraltar.gi

SKYFLY Premium DJ and Entertainment Services Now on the Coast Originally from the Netherlands, SKYFLY is an innovative DJ and entertainment service that has set standards for quality, client satisfaction and presentation for almost two decades. Today SKYFLY is expanding its services to Germany, Belgium, UK, Italy and Spain, where they are located near Marbella.

Their signature all-white DJ shows offer a premium presentation for any event, whether being a wedding party, a private party or a corporate event. With stylish lighting effects, a large built-in screen (for slideshows, videos or corporate logos) and a state of the art sound system, the SKYFLY DJs will make any event into a great party! g Tel: 635 341 872. www.skyfly.es

Fundraising for Cudeca Cudeca fundraisers are keeping busy as usual, with a host of events held to enable the cancer hospice to continue giving its ‘special kind of caring’. The charity recently opened its new charity outlet at P.I. El Viso in Málaga and held the 23rd edition of the Copa Cudeca golf tournament at La Cala Resort. Cudeca has also announced two events for July: Viva Las Vegas, featuring a variety of acts, including The Rat Pack, who will be performing on July 2 at The Plaza Beach in Doña Lola from 7.30pm; and Triosence, a jazz concert by Bernhard Schüler (piano) Matthias Nowak/Ingo Senst (bass) y Stephan Emig (drums), on July 8 at 8:45pm at the Clínica Buchinger Wilhelmi Marbella. i www.cudeca.org

Atlantis Property Management Celebrates First Anniversary with Art Atlantis Property Management and Real Estate SL recently celebrated the first year anniversary of its offices at the Centro Comerical Los Olivas with the launch of a summer exhibition entitled Promoting Andalucía. Some 10 international artists took part in the exhibition: Ose del Sol, Santiago Franco Bonache, Alexis, Suzy Kedge, Isabela L Sletner, Scottdudu Ugo Edward, Concha González Verdejo, Marina van Stekelenburg, Alfonso Hervás, Guillermo Martín Villafante, Guzman and Award-Winning Spanish photograper, Víctor Meliveo. The firm also celebrated the additin of talented Laywer, Pedro Quesada Arroyo, to their team. The event, catered by Pepe’s Bistro from Riviera, was attended by 250 people, who enjoyed live singing and flamenco dance performances. i www.atlantispmr.com

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International Cosmetic Surgery Meeting Comes to Marbella Leading plastic surgeons from around the world will gather in Marbella this July to discuss best practices in cosmetic surgery. The Marbella International Plastic Surgery Summer School (MIPSS) will be the first international plastic surgery meeting in the south of Spain. The event has been organised by Dr. Kai Kaye, Head Surgeon at Ocean Clinic Marbella, with endorsement from the Spanish and German national societies for plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery: SECPRE and DGPRAEC. The event will take place over three days (July 28-30) and will include presentations by 20 surgeons and specialists from all over Europe and Africa. Dr. Kaye will lecture on his cutting-edge facelift techniques and perform live surgery at his Marbella clinic. By inviting his colleagues to Spain, Dr. Kaye aims to break away from large, industry-orientated surgical meetings and facilitate collaboration. i www.oceanclinic.net

Gopi Kallayil Speaks at the Marbella International University Centre (MIUC) Gopi Kallayil, Brand Marketing expert at Google, recently kept audiences at the Marbella International University Centre (MIUC) enthralled, discussing a variety of topics, including the increased access to information by people from different socio-economic backgrounds. At the event, organised by Shahed Kavousi, Communications Director, Kallayil discussed the work philosophy at Google and enlightened the audience on how ideas can evolve from anything – for instance, first there was Google maps, then street view, and eventually, indoor street views of major public buildings! He also reminded his audience that the Internet is still unavailable to five billion people worldwide. Google is working on this problem, through the use of balloons, solar power panels and much more. i www.miuc.org

Butterfly Children Golf & Ball and New Bench at La Concha DEBRA, the Butterfly Skin charity, is pleased to announce that the 14th edition of the Butterfly Children Golf & Ball raised €37.012. Some 208 players displayed their golfing skills around the fabulous Aloha Golf Course in glorious sunshine and the following evening nearly 200 guests wined and dined on the stunning terrace of Aloha Clubhouse enjoying live music and beautiful fireworks.

Local boy, Luis Lima, who has Butterfly Skin, told his story and personally thanked all supporters.

Special guest, Michael Campbell, presented a signed U.S. Open flag for the auction and donated €1.000 on behalf of his golf school. DEBRA also recently installed their ‘Bench at La Concha Peak in Aid of Butterfly Children’ alongside Marbella’s firemen, to provide visitors with a safe space to rest while raising awareness of butterfly skin disease. i www.debra.es

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enterprise THE PRO z

Antima Holds Open House Event at Villa Palmeras Luxury home developers, Antima, recently held an open house event to show off the fruits of their hard work. Peter Rosen from Nordica, the real estate company in charge of selling the house, stated, "Once again the Antima-Nordica open house has proven to be incredibly successful. It was a fantastic afternoon with lots of happy agents enjoying themselves in the simply exquisite ambience that only an Antima villa can create. The top-class catering service and friendly atmosphere, set against beautifully relaxing jazz tunes, complemented the stunning setting perfectly. Needless to say, the villa was not on the market for long… it was sold just a matter of days after the open house event!” Sander Brendmoe, CEO of Antima, noted: "As a real estate developer you are never better than your last project. This is why its important to deliver extraordinary products each time with excellent quality and attention to detail. The marketplace rewards mastery. People always pay for the best." Villa Palmeras is a unique frontline golf home boasting spectacular views of the La Concha mountain and the Los Naranjos Golf Course and features fittings of the highest quality. i www.antima.no

Open Day at Patricia Darch Interiors Patricia Darch Interiors, famed for excellence in design, recently held an open day at its main design showroom and Natuzzi gallery in Sotogrande. Guests marvelled at their exciting new furniture and fabric collections, discovered at Milan’s prestigious Salone De Mobile fair earlier this year and enjoyed a special 12 per cent discount on all items ordered or paid for on the day. Additionally, purchases contributed to a donation made by Patricia Darch Interiors to the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Foundation. The team took the opportunity to host a silent auction to raise funds for the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Foundation prior to Patricia Darch’s charity opera gala, which took place last month. i www.patriciadarch.com ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JULY 2016 / 131

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z THE PRO business

Despite the globalisation of shopping and the boom in online sales, Marbella continues to be a small oasis of curated shopping experiences. When you let your legs actually do the walking, you tend to stumble upon quaint, unique shops that sell the kind of items that add a touch of exclusivity to your home, or make the perfect gift for a discerning friend. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

French Gourmet and Decoration Items on the Golden Mile

V

irginie is one such shop – the ‘baby’ of Virginie Demonchaux, a keen gourmet and décor lover who is as knowledgeable about pâtés and wine, as she is about interiors. Virginie is a special, unique shop; one that merits various visits, especially when a party comes around and you wish to delight guests with a French delicacy and with gorgeous tableware that perfectly encapsulates the zeitgeist of the season.

Virginie specialises in high quality products from the Dordogne Périgord region in the South of France, selling everything from foie gras to a plethora of mustards, apéritifs and liqueurs, walnut specialties and table linen.

Virginie, who moved to the Coast a couple of years ago with her husband, Bertrand, lived for 25 years in the rich production region of Dordogne Périgord (ensconced between Toulouse and Bordeaux), where she grew to become very familiar with the unique products that she would incorporate into her recipes. “I am happy to share my passion for cooking with customers,” she smiles, her bubbly personality making every visit to her shop a simple pleasure. Virginie is in close contact with many of the producers – one, who makes the foie gras, is actually her brother-in-law!

Virginie chose Marbella as the location for her new shop because it is such a rich mix of culture and nationalities, she knew she would find the right audience to share her vision. She originally opened her shop in Elviria, moving to the Golden Mile (a few steps away from Pan y Mermelada) when the locale became too small.

Simply entering the shop is like savouring the best of France – lovely natural fragrance fills the air, French music plays romantically in the background, and an array of bright colours and patterned

VIRGINIE

linens entice and invite you to look carefully at the beautifully prepared shelves, containing sweet and savoury items, as well as a small but wonderful selection of French wines and liqueurs. Virginie often offers visitors a degustation, pairing liqueurs or wines with some of her prized delicacies.

Some of the items you will find at Virginie include: FRENCH GOURMET Z WINES AND CHAMPAGNE: Bordeaux, Chablis, Côtes du Rhône, organic rosé from Provence, Sauternes and more, as well as Champagne rosé and prestige brut.

Z FOIE GRAS AND DUCK PRODUCTS: Foie gras entier, traditional rillettes and old school pâté, goose gizzards and bloc of foie gras.

Z MUSTARD: In an array of different flavours, including grape must, red pepper, Provence herbs, walnut and more.

Z OILS AND VINEGARS: Including grape seed oil with a truffle aroma, either with balsamic vinegar or raspberry vinegar and fine walnut oil.

Z APERITIFS AND LIQUORS: Fig or peach wines, Pastis, liquor of Paris and plum Brandy Grande Reserve.

Z WALNUT DELICACIES: Traditional, 100 per cent homemade walnut pie, chocolate walnuts and chocolate truffles.

TABLE DECO: The shop features stunning Basque linens by Jean-Vier,

whose work is intricately linked to the region and culture. The linens are incredibly water repellent and anti-stain, so they are able to weather even the biggest parties! The shop stocks placemats, aprons, rags, tea and hand towels, cushions, beach and bath towels, beach bags and printed coated canvas wear for exterior tables.

Lovers of candles will adore the different collections from Bougies le Francaise (founded in 1902), a fourth-generation company manufacturing long-lasting scented candles, fragrances and fragrance diffusers.

One of the most exclusive items in the shop are the knives by Corrèze, in ebony tree, steel and olive tree varieties, as well as gorgeous bottle openers.

Virginie is, indeed, the ultimate choice for colourful quality stoneware, as well as acrylic trays with fabric incorporated into the trays themselves.

Pop in and visit Virginie, who is certainly one of the most delightful shopkeepers we can recall meeting. Have a taste of one of her delicious walnut products with a glass of liqueur, and marvel at the different designs – food and décor are, indeed, the first steps towards turning a house into a home. Virginie can also help you pick a perfect gift or design your wedding list, so don’t hesitate to experience the very best flavours and style from France.

g Marbella Real Local 20, Marbella.

Tel: 952 834 398. www.frenchgourmetmarbella.com

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z THE PRO branding

HOW TO KNOCK YOUR CUSTOMER’S SOCKS OFF

AND DOUBLE YOUR REVENUE In two previous editions, we covered what it takes to start up your business and protect your trade name. In this issue, I will focus on the importance of your customer. Customer service IS key to your success because without it, even if you have the most awesome product on earth, you will have no business at all. WORDS ALI PARANDEH

E

ver since I launched my first business in 1997, I started with a customer database and CRM that I personally had written in MS Access. With the very first client, I recorded how I had met them, the type of information they needed, what they were interested in and their medium- to long-term goals. I kept notes on personal likes, so that I knew what type of gifts or discounts to provide them and I built a relationship with them. Many of them have become friends. Not all of them are close friends, but many of those have become friends that I now socialise with.

For the sake of argument, I will assume that you do have the most awesome product on earth, so we can concentrate on the customer. I want to focus on how you look at a customer from the very beginning.

First let’s look at the basics of what you need to do for your customers.

Z PLEASE A CUSTOMER! Before you can please a customer, you must get to know them. A customer is not just a name, address and a number. A customer is much more than this simple data. Apart from

the basic collection of data like date of birth, nationality, gender, etc., knowing your customer’s personal preferences in relation to your business is what can make the difference for that customer’s experience and what will connect you. Simple things like a birthday gift voucher to spend with your business, or other information that you believe is relevant or important to your customer. Remember that different dates are important to different nationalities. In my opinion the first step to pleasing a customer is getting to know them and treating them with respect and not just someone who is in need of your services.

Z WOW THE CUSTOMER If you know your customers, then you can wow them. Customers don’t expect you to memorise what they like to eat, do, see, etc. However, if you have built your client profile with details, it is easy to add a wow factor.

Regardless of your business, you can always note little details about your customers; their favourite chocolate, author, drink, sports team. Surprise them with a little

detail and you will be amazed, while they will be wowed.

Z MAKE YOUR CUSTOMERS LOYAL Deliver what you have offered, within the agreed price and time structure. That’s pretty much what most customers want.

A detailed offer ensures that the client understands all the steps, procedures, terms and conditions. A detailed contract that has been signed with the terms and conditions attached, also ensures that there will be no misunderstandings in the future.

Such an arrangement ensures that you and the customer understand what the job is and that when the job is finished, you have a customer who will be loyal to you, for you have delivered exactly what was requested.

utility bills; when you have your car repaired and they wash it inside and out – it is these finishing touches that impress me and certainly impress my clients especially when they are not expected. Such an extra touch doesn’t really cost much, but it means a whole lot to our customers.

Most entrepreneurs please and wow their customers naturally without having thought about it in detail as they genuinely want to make sure their customers stay loyal and they will do anything to knock their socks off. The trick however is: how do you make this process repeatable and can you do more for your customers? We will find out next month. To be continued…

Z KNOCK YOUR CUSTOMER’S SOCKS OFF The finishing touch. We often forget how important the finishing touch is. If you go to a hotel, and they throw in a bottle of Champagne with some chocolates; if you get a lawyer to complete on your property purchase but they also take care of the transfer of

g Ali Parandeh is Founder of Urbytus™, The Presidents Club™ and Electronbox & PC Doctor. He has written five books in the fields of Internet and Biotechnology and can be contacted at ap@businessdevelopment.es

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z THE PRO brexit

THE CAUSE AND IMPACT OF

BREXIT

By the slightest of margins, England and Wales have voted to take the UK out of the European Union. It is a historic moment dubbed ‘independence day’ by some and seen as the beginning of a long and miserable road by others, but either way Brexit will have a momentous impact within the UK and beyond. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

E

ndless words, thoughts, opinions and indeed media hours have been dedicated to the topic that has held Britain enthralled in the first half of this year. The issue: the referendum on continued UK membership of the European Union.

What’s at stake: Britain’s exit from the EU, a phenomenon that has long since become popularly known as ‘Brexit’.

WHY IT CAME ABOUT After the threat of Grexit came the rather different and (with respect) decidedly more impactful threat of Brexit – the desire of a large section of Britain’s political establishment to leave the European Union. In this they found themselves backed by a significant proportion of the country’s business leaders, as well as almost half of the populace.

The dissatisfaction with the EU, which started out as a highly successful common market and economic union, and has since grown almost unchallenged into a would-be super state, stems from a variety of political and economic factors, but most pervasive of all is the sense that this bureaucratic behemoth is inherently wasteful, undemocratic and that it does not act in the best interests of the United Kingdom. As a result, the swell of voices calling for a referendum on continued membership grew until Prime Minister David Cameron was forced to concede and schedule one on the issue.

THE ISSUES The largest original source of dissatisfaction with the EU stemmed from the fact that for many, the organisation seems bent on its own growth and puts the interests of

countries such as the UK in second place, thereby usurping national legislative, executive and judicial powers that many feel have been taken without consultation of the population at large. Such people feel un(der)represented by an organisation which they consider to be more interested in expanding, enhancing its powers at the expense of member states and in enforcing an endless series of ‘useless’ rules and regulations.

Moreover, the British population is inclined to believe it pays for the EU, if not singled-handedly, then at least in a disproportionate share. A lot of people also feel that the UK would be ‘leaner’, more flexible and in a better position to benefit from growth in developing countries if it were outside Europe, and that many of the benefits of the EU can be had regardless of actual membership. Over time, however, these political and economic issues have become overshadowed by one main topic: immigration.

Immigration has been a fact of life for Europe ever since it acquiesced and granted its former colonies independence in the 1950s and 60s.

The collective immigration of the past 50 or so years has completely changed the makeup of what was once an almost entirely white, Christian continent into one where ethnic minorities are set to outnumber the indigenous population within a few decades. There is therefore nothing new about immigration in what is dubbed multicultural Western Europe, but the sight of long lines of immigrants from unstable Islamic regions of the Middle East and Africa have combined with the rising threat of domestic terrorism to create a

sense of invasion and an environment of fear.

Suddenly the referendum was not so much about a huge, largely unelected organisation taking away domestic powers, as about stopping the tidal wave that many believed German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s ‘open door’ policy has unleashed. Flag waving and cooperative economics faced off just as internationalism and xenophobia did in a campaign where IN campaigners were accused of lying about immigration caps and OUT campaigners claimed that the European market and its subsidies would remain intact without EU membership. Interestingly, often the very same people who now rejected the EU and fears of massive disinvestment in the UK following Brexit used those very arguments to keep Scotland within the union.

ARE THE BRITISH ALONE? Another interesting aspect is that the British are by no means the only people within Europe to be EU-sceptic.

In fact, in polls, the Dutch, French and Italians actually appear more dissatisfied with the organisation than the staunchly independent islanders, suggesting that many of the core issues as perceived by the public – including loss of sovereignty, immigration and the self-serving nature of an essentially undemocratic organisation – are shared across large parts of Europe, not just in Britain.

There have been calls for a united front that would represent public opinion and demand serious structural changes within the EU and, for many, this remains a far more positive outcome than Brexit could ever be,

but in the wake of the UK’s decision to leave the EU, they will be replaced by demands for similar referendums across Europe. In the short run, there will be a jolt to the system – in the UK, Europe and across the world. Already the markets are responding, and though a sense of calm might return in the ensuing weeks, the short to midterm economic effect will be negative for all concerned.

The EU faces a period of soul searching, the ECB like the Bank of England will be looking to be a stabilising factor, and for the UK, a period of long exit and trade negotiations looms, along with fears of disinvestment, recession and falling standards of living. Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to remain, so calls for a new Scottish referendum on independence will be revived too. If Britain and Europe can look forward to tumultuous times as a result of this vote, then the impact on Marbella is no less powerful. A low pound, economic slowdown and uncertainty over residency status will weaken the British market at least in the short term.

However, eventually the ongoing British love affair with Marbella is expected to win through, as in or out of the EU, those who want to enjoy this region’s lifestyle will find a way.

It should be remembered that Spain itself only joined the EU (or EEC as it was then) in 1986 – Marbella had already been established as a favoured destination for Britons for decades, despite not being in the EU club. That ‘favoured destination’ status can be expected to remain in the long run, but we will have to wait and see how big an impact Brexit will have on Marbella in the short term. e

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z THE PRO vibe

La Finca Launch New luxury villa project, La Finca de Marbella, held a launch party, inviting clients, members of the press and friends to enjoy drinks and canapés with a live performance by Manolo & Lito. La Finca de Marbella follows the latest trends in contemporary villa design in terms of style, size and amenities. i www.lafincademarbella.com

“Home is where love resides, memories are created, friends always belong, and laughter never ends” – Anonymous

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vibe THE PRO z

Icon Marbella Celebrates First Year Anniversary Icon Marbella recently celebrated its first birthday, with almost the whole of the project’s first phase having been completely sold and half of the construction work completed. The event took place at the offices of Icon in Santa Clara. In attendance were over 450 professionals from the real estate, legal, architectural, interior design and construction sectors. i www.icon-marbella.com

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit” – Aristotle

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z THE PRO vibe

Summer Party at Besaya Beach Trendy frontline restaurant, Besaya Beach, recently welcomed the summer season with a swish party in which guests enjoyed fine food and refreshing drinks. Besaya Beach is one of the coolest restaurants in which to enjoy an exquisite meal with fabulous views across the Mediterranean. i www.besayabeach.com

“The best kind of therapy is beach therapy” – Anonymous

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z THE PRO vibe

Engel & Völkers presents Villa Zagato Top real estate firm, Engel & Völkers, recently stunned guests at the open house presentation of the beautiful Villa Zagato in La Zagaleta. The home represents all the best Marbella has to offer: exquisite views, a stunning design and a prime location. i www.engelvoelkers.com

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

PHOTOGRAPHY kevin horn 142 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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z THE PRO vibe

The Launderette Cocktails and Carbs comes to the Port Puerto Banús was the perfect setting for the opening of new food and cocktails place, The Launderette Cocktails and Carbs. Located on the popular Avda. Julio Iglesias, the restaurant offers fab food, freaky cocktails and funky music. i www.thelaunderettebanus.com

“Part of the secret of success in life is to eat what you want” – Mark Twain

PHOTOGRAPHY kevin horn 144 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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vibe THE PRO z

First Annual Awards Gala at Reserva del Higuerón Reserva del Higuerón recently held their first annual awards gala to honour agencies and agents that performed excellently in the past year. During the event, the management also presented three new Resort Collections. Guests enjoyed a wonderful dinner and ceremony at the infinity pool on the top floor of the hotel. i www.reservadelhigueron.com

“Life is playfulness… we need to play so that we can rediscover the magic around us” – Flora Colao

PHOTOGRAPHY kevin horn and courtesy of reserva del higuerón ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JULY 2016 / 145

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z THE PRO vibe

PHOTOGRAPHY kevin horn 146 / JULY 2016 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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vibe THE PRO z

Essential Magazine Celebrates 17 Years Magazine celebrated its 17th anniversary in a great way by inviting clients to a night of food, fun and music at Bora Bora Beach Club in San Pedro. Iain Blackwell, Publisher & Director, recalled that Essential’s launch party was held at the same venue in 1999. He thanked loyal clients and introduced Desperados: an excellent Eagles tribute band that, together with the SKYFLY DJ Show, had guests on their feet all night long. i www.essentialmagazine.com

“Loyalty is a lifestyle” – Anonymous

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z THE PRO vibe

Solvilla Presents Los Olivos Open House Solvilla recently invited clients, colleagues and members of the real estate fraternity to the open house of its new show villa at Los Olivos, which features a stunning contemporary architectural design and impressive interiors. There are four more villas on sale, with a starting price of €1.795.000. i www.solvilla.no

“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort” – Jane Austin

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vibe THE PRO z

New Art & Sports Hall for Aloha College The students of Aloha College and their parents marvelled at the magnificence of the new Art & Sports Hall, which measures some 2.352m2 and boasts a 1.266m2 terrace. After the unveiling of the complex, parents then attended Speech Day, discovering all their children had achieved during the busy year and witnessing the graduation of the Year 6 and Year 13 pupils. i www.aloha-college.com

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” – Nelson Mandela

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z THE PRO events

Soaring through the Skies at

Marbella residents know that one of the defining events that marks the commencement of summer, is Starlite Marbella. Our busiest season is as much about this international music festival, as it is about espetos and paella on the beach, pool parties, or glamorous charity galas.

Starlite Marbella 2016 S

tarlite brings together some of the world’s leading performers, including Alejandro Sanz, Robert Plant and Santana. However, it is so much more than a musical festival. It is a true celebration of our unique quality of life, held in the open-air venue known as the Cantera de Marbella. The stage, wedged between imposing rock formations, offers uniquely perfect acoustics as well as a special experience beneath the starry sky. In addition to the performances, the venue boasts a plethora of open-air restaurants and bars which make the perfect site for a pre- or post-concert party. This year, some of the stars who will be shining include:

ZZ July 14: Juan Magán: If you aren’t familiar with Juan Magán then you won’t know that he has produced and performed some of the biggest hits in recent Spanish music, the kind that entice even the most reticent groover onto the dancefloor, to boogie to upbeat hits such as Te Voy a Esperar. Magán is also a popular DJ, rapper and remixer who has worked with everyone from Juanes to Pitbull, Bob Sinclair and Paulina Rubio.

ZZ July 16: Robert Plant & The Sensational Space Shifters: Few

singers can lay claim to the sensational vocal ability or extensive rock experience of Robert Plant, lead singer of Led Zeppelin. He will be performing golden hits and new songs with his band, The Sensational Space Shifters, so make sure to bring your fiery rock ‘n roll spirit to this event.

ZZ July 22: God Save the Queen: This tribute act is, quite simply, one of the best in the world when it comes to reproducing the magic of Freddie Mercury and his band. Enjoy listening to hits like Bohemian Rhapsody or Killer Queen, and dream that Freddie is still with us.

ZZ July 24: Santana: Carlos Santana is an award-winning guitarist, considered the 15th greatest of all time by Rolling Stone magazine. Santana has sold over 90 million records across the globe, thanks to gems like Maria Maria, Oye cómo va, and Black Magic Woman.

ZZ July 29: Charles Aznavour: This French/Armenian crooner is guaranteed to make you feel romantic and nostalgic, with his bittersweet songs about the changing face of love. Some of his best songs include Happy Days, Sound of Your Name and I Didn’t See the Time Go By. ZZ August 1: Tom Jones: ‘You don’t have to be rich’ to appreciate the amazing

voice and presence of Welsh sensation Tom Jones, who will be delighting the audience with catchy ditties like Delilah and Kiss.

ZZ August 3: Il Divo: This group achieved the unimaginable: bringing the wonder of opera and classical music, to a younger crowd. The handsome Italians delight us on a night filled with romance and glamour.

ZZ August 4: José Luis Perales: Perales is one of Spain’s most talented singer/songwriters of all time. It is difficult to describe the weight of his legacy, though his music speaks volumes all on its own. Perales is famed for his sad, soulful ballads, including ¿Y cómo es él?, ¿Por qué te vas? and Un velero llamado libertad.

ZZ August 5: El Gusto es Nuestro: This concert is a must for fans of Ana Belén, Victor Manuel, Miguel Ríos and Joan Manuel Serrat. These artists have composed and sung some of modern Spanish music’s most important songs, including the stunningly beautiful Mediterráneo (by Serrat).

ZZ August 8: Malú: The fiery brunette brings her blend of pop and flamenco hits to Marbella. The Voice coach has also recently released a top-selling album and she will be performing hits old and new.

ZZ August 9: Alejandro Sanz:

This Grammy-award winning artist always gives what is considered to be Starlite’s most hotly solicited concert.

Not only does he sing all his best loved hits (and some new ones), he also brings us an immensely talented band, whose members hail from all over the world.

ZZ August 16: the corrs: The Corrs are back together after a 10-year hiatus!

They will be presenting their latest album, White Light.

ZZ August 17: Estrella morente and antonio canales: If you are a flamenco music enthusiast, you simply cannot miss out on this concert, featuring performances by singer, Estrella Morente, and dancer, Antonio Canales.

ZZ August 19: Status Quo: This English rock band has not stopped delighting us with their boogie rock music since the 1960s, ‘playing rock ‘n roll as if they invented it’. They have had over 60 chart hits in the UK, including Rockin’ All Over the World, In the Army Now and Whatever You Want. g There are many more acts lined up for Starlite. Also stay in tune for the Starlite Gala, a glamorous charity event held to raise funds for the needy. For a full programme and for further information, www.starlitemarbella.com

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h THE LEISURE travel

Cityscape of Bordeaux at a summ

er night

Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux

2016’S

O H Y A D HOLI re It’s a big wide world out the lly rea s on ati tin but some des stand out from the crowd this year – the party cities . with something to celebrate Belinda Beckett highlights five hot-and-happening r places that should be on you 6.

201 holiday hit list for

This year will be a vintage one for the st port city of Bordeaux and France’s large n. wine-growing regio Thrust into the global spotlight in June, the regional capital has been r strutting its swanky new 43,000-seate Euro UEFA ve fi to host sports stadium as tries.

2016 matches, watched in 75 coun Visitors will also have a ball at the Cité du Vin, a touchy-feely museum unveiled on the banks of the Gironne rival River last month with attractions to now Disneyland Paris – and Bordeaux is the via tal capi only two hours from the new TGV link.

Once referred to as the Sleeping

The spectacular Cité du Vin © XTU/ANEKA

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Vineyard and Village of Montagne Saint Emilion

O TLIST by a Beauty, cut off from the waterfront ces edifi e decommissioned port, her ochr has city SCO UNE this blackened by soot– r majo a with life of kiss the been given cleanup, a shiny new tram system and – La – the next architectural excitement toir abat old the MÉCA, set to transform l visua the for hub nal regio a district into arts. g rmin perfo and With its graceful river bridges and the nts largest collection of historic monume once city the , Paris ide in France, outs more lives up to the words of 19th r century Les Miserables author, Victo and erp, Antw add , Hugo: ‘Take Versailles ’. eaux you have Bord

The romantic poet would have ing relished the new wine museum, float . swan ract abst r silve a like river on the Designed by Parisian architects XTU to emulate wine swirling around a and crystal goblet, the undulating glass ed dubb been has ing build d metal-cla r ‘the Guggenheim of wine’ for its clea eum mus o nods to Frank Gehry’s Bilba in and Marques de Riscal City of Wine .

La Rioja Inside this ‘theme park museum’, every trick in the IT book has been used with to vamp up a dusty vintage subject, a on rs visito take that ns llatio 20 insta sensory rollercoaster ride through the

ONS GR APE EXPECTATI IN BORDEAUX history of wine.

Take an aerial tour of the world’s vineyards through ‘magic binoculars’, meet wine experts who appear as holograms, tap into touch screens up dangling from stylised vines to gen lling sme the on grape varieties and play zut – s’ ‘nose rent game to sniff out diffe im! excla t migh s snob alors, as wine In fact just about the only thing you ch can’t do in the Cité du Vin, due to Fren in least at – wine licensing laws, is drink ’s there ugh altho – er prop the museum plenty of Château Latour and Mouton atop Rothschild on sale in the restaurant r. towe ing the 55-metre view

As the flagship HQ of an industry spanning over 80 countries, the rm museum is Bordeaux’s bid to reconfi d. worl the of tal capi wine as its title art Despite feisty challenges from upst st large the still countries like Spain, it’s top d’s worl the in ucer fine wine-prod es wine-producing country, which mak it perfectly placed to win over the next ng a generation of wine drinkers by putti ing quitt , bery snob al lectu cork in the intel e som e grap the g givin and ing the spitt attitude. Salut! i www.bordeaux-tourisme.com www.laciteduvin.com

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Dublin docklands at night

Meals on wheels aboard the elegant Belmond Grand Hibernian

Kilmainham Gaol, first built in 1796

CENTENARY CRAIC IN DUBLIN Irish eyes are smiling again as the country emerges from an economic outlook blacker than a pint of Guinness to celebrate a landmark date in its history.

And you can count on the ‘Paddies’ to make a party of it, even if the 1916 Easter Rising was a particularly bloody event in their struggle for independence from Britain.

A sum of €22 million is funding 12 glittering months of cultural and historical happenings to mark a six-day rebellion that lead to 450 deaths, 15 executions and the birth of the Irish Republic.

The country is flaunting its new status as 2015’s fastest-growing European economy with compelling new reasons to visit this year, including new east and west coast road trips and a grand tour of the country aboard the elegant Belmond Grand Hibernian– Ireland’s own Orient Express, whistled off on its inaugural journey in August.

Dublin, epicentre of the festivities,

has been polishing its Irish welcome with a centenary programme that will bring Beyonce, Justin Bieber, Rod Stewart and Tom Jones to the banks of the River Liffey this year. Landmark buildings have been spruced up to bring the Easter Rising colourfully back to life: dramatic Kilmainham Gaol, where 14 of the rebellions ringleaders were executed, is now Dublin’s most popular attraction; Richmond Barracks, where the rebels were tried, has reopened as a permanent exhibition space; and you’ll get a lot more than stamps at O’Connell Street GPO. The former rebel HQ has added a hands-on Witness History expo where visitors can experience those turbulent times in virtual reality.

Four new self-guided discovery trails tell the story of this walking city.

Ireland’s tour guides also spin a great yarn. Local historians Lorcan Collins and Conor Kostick will regale you with tales of how one rebel was carried to the firing squad on a stretcher, while

Dublin Ireland at dusk with waterfront and historic Ha’penny Bridge

another was executed just hours after marrying in a candlelit gaol ceremony.

They’ve been running their blarneyfilled Rebellion Walking Tour since 1996 and it starts and ends in a pub.

Indeed, you don’t need to leave the pub at all under Dublin’s City of a Thousand Welcomes initiative. Simply book up to meet an informed Dubliner in a bar and quiz them over a glass of stout.

History and hostelries, culture and craic fuse in this vibrant young capital– witness the nicknames they confer on

their cultural icons: The Tart with the Cart, as the Mollie Malone statue is fondly known, and the Prick with the Stick (the James Joyce effigy).

Bon viveur Joyce would have appreciated Dublin’s Teeling Whiskey Distillery, the first to open in 125 years, bringing this traditional craft back into the city centre after a long dry period and ensuring no visitor leaves the fair city without a ‘wee dram o’ the spirit o’ Dublin’ to speed them on their way.

Slainté! i www.visitdublin.com

View of Mellows bridge

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OLYMPIC HIGHS IN RIO

Museum of Tomorrow in the newly rebuilt Maua square

If you thought you’d seen all there was to see of the carnival city during the 2014 Brazil World Cup, you’d be so wrong. Rio plans to show off more than its vast Maracaña football Stadium – the setting for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies – at what is being hailed as the most photogenic Summer Olympics and Paralympics ever.

The rowing will be held in Rio’s ‘lake district’ on a natural lagoon ringed by imposing black mountains; Copacabana Beach will host the volleyball and the Olympic fanzone; and, in defiance to the mosquitospread Zika virus, the road cycling will speed through the city’s tropical rainforested hills.

Close to half a million spectators will descend for the August Games and the first South American nation to host an Olympics plans a star-spangled show. But savvy visitors who hang back until the glut of new hotels empty out and prices return to sensible norms will find the ‘Real’ deal, as Brazil’s currency is in freefall – and queues for attractions will be a lot shorter after the athletes leave.

The city is now scrambling to complete the building bonanza that is opening up areas previously off the tourist radar. Top of the sight-seeing list will be the revitalised port district where $2.5 billion has been spent knocking down slums, abandoned warehouses and the overhead Perimetral expressway to gentrify Rio’s hitherto poorest, most crime-ridden zone.

Among the skyline-changing attractions are the Museu de Arte do Rio, a hypermodern exhibition space and school for contemporary art; a cable car that goes to Providência, the city’s most historic favela; and the long-

awaited Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow), a mammoth interactive exhibition exploring the science behind outer space, climate change and the future of life on earth. Designed by Catalan architect Santiago Calatrava, the space-age edifice has been likened to a solar-powered dinosaur and a giant air-conditioning unit and assuredly has wow factor.

Not to be outdone, the swish Copocabana district is also fielding a new attraction with The Museum of Image and Sound, a homage to Brazilian music and television.

The complete all-singing, all-dancing Carmen Miranda Collection is also housed in the new eight-storey glass-fronted building overlooking the beach.

Scores of new restaurants are popping up as chefs from all over the world bring their signature cuisine to the city. Street food is one of the new taste trends to watch, exemplified by top chef Roberta Sudbrack’s new SudTruck hotdog chain, while her eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant is helping to make Jardim Botânico the city’s hippest new hangout.

Carnival, the Olympics – you won’t need either to reap the best value out of R&R in Rio this year. i www.rio2016.com

Panoramic view of Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro

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Colorado River, Grand Canyon © NPS/Mark Lellouch

Trumpeter Swans Yellowstone © NPS/Jim Peaco

America’s Party in the Parks The US National Park Service is hosting its biggest party since Yogi Bear set up his picnic table in Jellystone cartoonland to celebrate his 50th birthday in 2011.

It’s 100 years since President Woodrow Wilson created the Rangerpatrolled conservation service that has been emulated by nations worldwide.

To mark the occasion, entrance fees are being waived at 127 locations on 16 red letter days this year, including August 25-28 (the NPS’ official birthday) September 24 (National Public Lands Day) and November 11 (Veterans Day). Free T-shirts, hats, baby onesies, videos, competitions, Junior Ranger programmes and an adult colouring book are other fringe benefits of visiting a national park in 2016, and as they host 280 million tourists in an ordinary year,

that’s a sizeable investment in freebies.

From Ellis Island and Mount Rushmore to Yosemite and the Great Smoky Mountains, the park chain offers an unparalleled coast-to-coast journey across America, complete with dizzying canyons, grizzly bears, wondrous waterfalls and towering sequoia trees. Statewide, 59 national parks come under NPS protection, along with seashores, battlefields, urban parks and even the White House estate – 411 conservation zones spanning a landmass the size of Kansas.

Every state except Delaware boasts at least one national park, each with its own character: Yellowstone in Wyoming, the oldest park dating from 1872, is famous for its Old Faithful geyser, one of earth’s most predictable geographical features erupting every 35-

120 minutes; The Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited, running for 755 km through 29 counties in Virginia and North Carolina; Crater Lake National Park Oregon’s volcano lake runs deep enough to submerge five Statues of Liberty stacked on top of each other; while Grand Canyon National Park’s USP, one of the seven wonders of the world, needs no introduction.

Holiday companies have been getting creative to mark the occasion, with tours that go way beyond a walk in the park. Globus, an official partner of the National Park Foundation, is offering a commemorative 100-day tour to 35 National Parks stretching from Hawaii to Maine, taking in Washington’s wine country and a buffalo safari in Custer State Park.

Disney is rounding up would-be

cowboys for horseback riding, fly fishing, zip lining and stargazing on a dude ranch with its Montana Big Sky & Yellowstone National Park Tour.

And Cox & King’s Southwestern Spa and Healing Immersion offers native American cooking, healing and hot spring detoxes in park settings.

It’s hard to believe that in the early years, the NPS actively encouraged visitors to watch bears eat by setting up dumpsters in public viewing areas, an activity that inspired many of the early Yogi and Boo-Boo escapades. Although there are no more handouts for cartoon bears, there are plenty of incentives to make 2016 the year to explore the natural beauty of America’s stunning state parks for free. i www.nps.gov

Kalaupapa National Park Hawaii © NPS/T. Scott Williams

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, S. Dakota © NPS

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Sculpture Peine del Viento Music in the streets

A CAPITAL YEAR FOR SAN SEBASTIÁN

Pintxos - the Basque version of tapas

EMUSIK brought together 10,500 young musicians from 26 countries in May

Zurriola beach and The Kursaal Congress Centre, locally known as The Cubes

With its international film and jazz festivals, San Sebastián needs no introduction. But 2016’s European Co-Capital of Culture (an honour shared with Wroclaw in Poland) is pulling out all the stops to showcase its charms to the world. Ballet, opera, gastronomy, art, firework spectaculars – you name it, the beautiful seaside city known as Donostia in the Basque language is hosting it this year.

The culture-packed programme of over 400 events has been five years in the planning since the city won the 2016 title in competition against a dozen other Spanish contenders. And with something going on almost ever day of the year, visitors can dip in and out of the cultural menu in the same way they make the rounds of San Seb’s pintxo bars to sample the Basque version of tapas, traditionally speared on the end of cocktail sticks.

Music will be a major summer theme, with George Benson in concert as a prelude to the 51st International Jazz Festival (July 20-25), headlining over 40 top artists including Diana Krall and Gloria Gaynor. And when the saxophones and squeeze boxes are packed away, some of the world’s most prestigious orchestras and musical ensembles will tune up for the 77th edition of the Quincena (August 4-31), Spain’s longest classical music festival. Opera (Mozart’s Don Giovanni), ballet (Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde) and a concert by the Budapest Festival Orchestra are among many highlights.

The 1,800-seater Kursaal auditorium, an edgy glass megaplex designed by Spanish architect Rafael Moneo locally known as The Cubes, provides a spectacular concert stage but the city’s parks, beaches and promenades will also be key arenas for this mega culture fest. Through July, Cristina Enea Park will be the backdrop for evening performances of A Midsummer Night’s

Dream, with audience participation invited during the wedding feast scene.

Things hot up for Semana Grande (August 13-20), San Seb’s rip-roaring summer festival.

As well as beach horseracing, volleyball and the ‘herri kirolak olympics’ – wood chopping, bale tossing and other Basque rural trials of strength – the night sky will light up in rainbow colours as pyrotechnicians from all over the world light the touch paper on their entries for the international fireworks competition.

As the Spanish city that suffered most from ETA’s terrorist campaigns, Peace Treaty aims to highlight culture as a tool for uniting nations through 400 major artworks by masters such as Goya, Rubens, Murillo, Picasso and Le Corbusier.

On view until October, the expo will be shared between the KMK culture centre and beautiful San Telmo Museum,a 16th-century Dominican convent now flaunting a new wing overlooking the rugged coast.

The International Film Festival brings a glittering lineup of movie stars to San Sebastián from September 16-24, then world-class chefs from 37 countries arrive for the 17th Gastronomic Congress (October 2-5). In a city that twinkles with 16 Michelin stars of its own, there won’t be a dull moment until Christmas week when Santa jingles into town to take over the show. i www.dss2016.eu

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h THE LEISURE cruises Thousands of cruise holidays across Europe are up for grabs this year following a swathe of cancellations by holidaymakers because of terrorism and migrant concerns.

The stunning Seabourn Odyssey

CRUISE BARGAINS WORDS DAVID WISHART PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE SEABOURN ODYSSEY AND THE STAR BREEZE

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esorts in Turkey, whose capital Istanbul has been bombed by terrorists, already face a bleak summer with sunlovers opting for Spain and Portugal, but the cruise industry, with many passengers travelling from the US, is now having to deal with largescale cancellations all over the Mediterranean and beyond.

As a London travel agent said, “Americans are more wary of possible trouble, and their grasp of geography is not always good.”

He could have been referring to the 1986 bombing of Libya, which had American tourists staying home in droves, even cancelling golf trips to Ireland.

The popular US online cruise website www.vacationstogo.com lists scores of Mediterranean cruises at discounts in the 70 and 80 per cent range. Although the latter company is US-based, it accepts bookings from Europe, but those using it are advised to check for extra charges. Even the highly regarded Cruise Critic reports a steep fall in fares with some down 82 per cent.

The advent of immediate TV news bulletins showing jihadist attacks and migrants pouring across the Mediterranean appear to be getting to British holiday makers as well. “There are concerns in Britain too,” said the travel agent,

“with Istanbul being the main concern. It is an important cruise turnaround port and has cruise lines scrambling to change itineraries.”

British travel agents are coy about listing before and after prices, but websites are splashing good rates such as seven nights in the Norwegian fjords for £389, a 12-night Baltic cruise for £699, and 13 nights in the Canaries for £775.

Edwina Lonsdale of luxury specialist Mundy Cruising in London said while the top end was more resistant to cancellations, new bookings were down with “Americans getting more jittery.”

She said Seabourn Cruise Line was always quick to react in these situations and it had good fares including seven nights in the Mediterranean for £1,499 per person.

Seabourn has a new fleet of beautiful small ships which are all inclusive with no tipping required.

They are also the only cruise ships where caviar is free and offered daily. It might come from Uruguay, but it goes down very well.

Other inducements are being offered, such as the lowering or removal of single supplements, free air fares or upgrades, and onboard perks such as complimentary wifi, drinks and shore excursions.

It also comes at a bad time for the cruise companies as new ships

continue to be floated out of yards across Europe, including the giant Harmony of the Seas, which will be home-ported in Barcelona this summer. This 6,700-passenger vessel, five times the size of Titanic, is being offered at reduced rates and with free balcony upgrades, quite unusual for a launch situation.

Carnival Vista is now in service, as are new vessels from Oceania Cruises and Viking Oceans.

Very good value is to be found on older ships such as Windstar Cruises, which bought three sleek, 200-passenger ships from Seabourn. Windstar renovated them nicely, but not a lot of work was required as these little beauties were built as Rolls-Royces of the sea with marble bathrooms and bathtubs in every cabin. Such luxuries are hard to find in new ships, where passengers often have to put up with the dreaded clingy shower curtains.

These ships were built before balconies became fashionable, but some cabins were later modified with Romeo and Juliet windows.

They’re superb.

Sea Dream Yacht Club’s two 112-passenger vessels are older, have no balconies and

no entertainment, but are hugely popular among savvy cruisers, who enjoy great meals on deck and a topsides bar that could be the best afloat.

New or old, there’s an armada of ships out there with empty beds galore. One travel agent said he had not seen so many bargains since the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York in 2001. “You can understand cruisers preferring ports where there have been no problems, but even at these places, in the Western Mediterranean or the Baltic, bargain fares are being offered.” g See also David Wishart’s review of Harmony of the Seas in this issue.

Affordable cruising aboard the Sea Breeze

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h THE LEISURE hotel

New Frontline Hotel Opens in Estepona

IBEROSTAR COSTA DEL SOL ****

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF IBEROSTAR HOTELS & RESORTS

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rupo Iberostar, the owner of hotels in a wide array of scenic, exotic locations (Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic and many more countries) is proud to announce the launch of its new ‘baby’: the four-star Iberostar Costa del Sol hotel, right on the frontline of one of Estepona’s most beautiful beaches. The Coast was a logical choice for the group owing to its average temperature of 19ºC, fabulous beaches, rich cultural heritage and famed gastronomy.

The Estepona and Marbella areas also make a great family destination, owing to numerous activities and adventures catered to children and adults alike. The new hotel is a short 10-minute drive from Puerto Banús and 45 minutes from Málaga airport.

There are 265 rooms in total at the Iberostar Costa del Sol. Most

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sport gorgeous views of the sea, while suites boast their own private or shared pool. Rooms are designed with Andalusian inspiration in mind, as is evident in touches such as the colourful blue and yellow mosaic tiles that form a unique headboard for the comfie beds. Crisp, clean colours abound in the décor, which can best be described as a blend of traditional and modern.

There is a good range of room sizes and prices, including the Double Room (for three people), Double Room with Side View of the Sea (also for three), Family Room (for two adults and two children), as well as more spacious abodes such as the Junior Suite Duplex and the Suite Sharing Pool.

Gastronomy is big at this Hotel, which is home to four bars and two restaurants. Guests can opt for a

hearty buffet meal at Restaurante La Almazara while catching a cooking show, or chill out at the Seasoul Beach Club, which serves Andalusian and Mediterranean cuisine. For cocktails, few places beat the Beach Bar, with its romantic seaside terrace.

The Hotel is an all-inclusive resort, though guests can also choose to simply pay for their room.

The Iberostar Costa del Sol is the ideal choice for stressed executives who really need to unwind alongside their families. In addition to the beach club and outdoor pools, there is a stunning Spa and Wellness Centre, with an 800m2 thermal area with saunas, a Turkish bath, relaxation room, sensation showers, Jacuzzi, heated pool in the winter time and more. The Spa is staffed by a friendly, experienced team of beauticians who can suggest an

array of treatments – everything from a soothing massage to an agedefying facial.

While you’re unwinding, keep your kids busy at the Miniclub, where children will find dozens of activities every day, organised by dedicated staff. The little ones can take their pick from different games and sports, or catch some rays poolside. Activities include drawing, snorkelling, mini-golf and much more.

If you’re in town for business, the Iberostar Costa del Sol can also make an ideal location for a conference or workshop. The Hotel boasts four spacious meeting and events rooms, all with natural lighting and a spacious recreational games zone, perfect for team building or relaxing between meetings.

g Urb. Costalita s/n, Puente de Cancelada, Estepona. Tel: 952 000 320. www.iberostar.com

6/21/16 2:15 PM

Save these Summer Dates!

SUNDAY 24TH JULY

El Patio Opening Party TUESDAY 26TH JULY

The Finest

The Best Music of All Times, remixed by Kique Smx

Summer Nights From 8pm onwards

THURSDAY 28TH JULY

Olé Tapas & Flamenco Show

Featuring the best DJ Duo Lola & Kique

THURSDAY 4TH AUGUST

Flower Power Party THURSDAY 11TH AUGUST

The Italian Job Fashion Night

SUNDAY 14TH AUGUST

Purple Rain

Themed Parties Fashion Pop-up Store Pizzas & Cocktails

THURSDAY 18TH AUGUST

Olé Tapas & Flamenco Show THURSDAY 25TH AUGUST

Studio 54 SUNDAY 28TH AUGUST

Miami 50’s SATURDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER

Closing Party

See you at El Lodge!

Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602, Marbella, Málaga, Spain Tel (+34) 952 822 211 Fax (+34) 952 828 884 marbellaclub.com

h THE LEISURE gourmet

Dining in Style in

Marbella’s Old Town

Marbella is truly the ultimate destination for even the savviest of food lovers, with glam-filled beach clubs, sun-kissed chiringuitos and a select list of Michelin-starred establishments, as well as dining galleries where many of the area’s top restaurants congregate. There is truly something for everyone and, often, our decision of where to dine rests upon a last-minute whim. WORDS Marisa cutillas Photography kevin horn

W

hen it comes to romantic candlelit dining, however, Marbellís know that booking a table in the Old Town is of the essence. This historical area offers a magical experience that begins the moment you take your first step upon its cobblestoned streets and stroll beneath the old street lamps, slowly and casually, until you reach your secret nook. Whitewashed houses, colourful balconies dripping over with fuschia bougainvillea, wrought iron terraces, old churches and quaint boutiques capture your heart and instil a peaceful vibe. The Old Town exudes the wisdom of age; here, it seems as though you have been whisked to days gone by as present worries flit away and a sense of mindfulness takes over. Few spots quite manage to instil this special ambience, not even, I would dare to say, Málaga’s stunning city centre, with its lavish museums, impressive cathedral and vibrant Plaza de la Merced.

Casanis

Within its labyrinthine streets, the Old Town houses a select number of restaurants with as rich a history as Marbella itself. Take Casanis, brainchild of talented Belgian restaurateur, Guy Sirre, a fervent traveller who has scoured the globe in search of new flavours, aromas and textures. Guy was trained at a three-starred Michelin establishment in Belgium, honing his craft at the renowned LeNôtre Culinary Institute in Paris, and later, under the guiding hand of Albert Roux at Le Gavroche.

When he opened Casanis 13 years ago, he aimed to bring diners Mediterranean and French-styled bistro cuisine bearing Oriental touches and Marbella fell instantly in love with his offerings.

In addition to the fantastic food dreamed up by master Chef, Tulio Ricardo Zampieri, and the friendly service, diners become enamoured by the beautiful setting. Casanis is ensconced in a lovely two-story palacete Andaluz, graced with an antique fountain in the centre of the first floor, and a fairytale-like dining area on the second floor, boasting high wooden-beamed ceilings and a rustic fireplace that contrasts beautifully with the vibrantly painted walls, graced by tropical motifs – the work of the amazing Aldo Gigli, artist and long-time friend to Guy and his team.

Guy is what you would call a restaurateur who is

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very much in tune to what diners crave; so successful was Casanis that Guy eventually created additional restaurants Casa Mono, with it gorgeous jungle vibe (serving fine world cuisine in Marbella’s city centre) and Café Flore (serving authentic Italian cuisine once again whipped up by Tulio Ricardo Zampieri). This summer marks another first for Casanis: the launch of La Plage Casanis, on the beach frontline and easily accessible (just take the Hotel Vincci exit from the motorway).

Some of the many delights you can enjoy at Casanis include oysters, foie gras, tuna tartare, rock fish chowder,

Belgian croquettes and Vietnamese nems (starters).

Mains include the magnificent grilled turbot, sucking pig, duck confit, beef tartare, Argentinian entrecôte and more. For dessert, meanwhile, how does a Brussels waffle or crisp tart tatin sound? Casanis also boasts an excellent selection of charcuterie products, and wonderful wines from France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, New Zealand and the U.S. g C/ Ancha 8 (directly up from Orange Square), Marbella. Tel: 952 900 450. www.casanis.es

La Famieke

If you have been part of the in-dining set over the past decade, the names Maryse and Benoit undoubtedly ring a bell. The talented husband-and-wife team seem to have the hidden recipe for success; every restaurant they launch becomes an instant hit. Maryse and Benoit founded iconic Old Town restaurant, Zozöi, running the busy establishment for almost 15 years. After taking a sabbatical, they brought their undeniable passion for offering a top dining experience to the Old Town once again, in the form of La Famieke (which, in Belgian, means ‘The Family’).

La Famieke is nestled in a corner of one of the most beautiful little plazas, intimate and warm, it is beautifully decorated, with murals representing busy waiters and a close-knit bunch of Italians, who seem to whisper the secrets of what good food is really all about. The menus have their own story to tell, since their covers are graced with imagery of a man and a woman – two portraits which hang in Maryse and Benoit’s own home.

If you have met this dynamic couple, then you know that Maryse is ‘the face’ of the restaurant – the ‘people person’ who ensures diners enjoy the ultimate pampering experience. Benoit, meanwhile, is the Chef, whose creativity and unadorned good taste turn every dish into a spectacular medley of flavours, textures and fragrances. We recently enjoyed a meal at La Famieke, tucking into a dish we might never otherwise have tried: an amazing grilled calf liver served with onion and sage fritters and a piquant devil’s sauce, topped with crisp parma ham (regulars at the restaurant assured me this was La Famieke’s ‘star dish’ and I understood why at first bite). If you are visiting soon, do start your meal with the house antipasti (bearing a mouthwatering array of starters) and forget your low carb diet for just a moment, as you tuck into the amazing tomato and rosemary bread, baked on the premises by Maryse and Benoit’s son, Sebastian. g C/ de la Cruz 5, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 412.

Zozoï Zozoï, founded by Maryse and Benoit of La Famieke, has achieved a unique feat: that of being one of Marbella’s hands-down most popular restaurants for 15 years. Today, it still manages to entice and enthral, thanks in no small part to its brilliant Chef: Maxime Lenoir, who has the honour of having been one of the younger professors at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu cookery school in Madrid. Maxime is Belgian, but honed his craft in the Caribbean, which instilled a love in the young Chef for life in warmer climes. He eventually moved to Marbella, taking up the challenge to delight local and international visitors, who have come to expect the very best standard of food at this iconic establishment. The cuisine at Zozoï is decidedly French, though Vietnamese, Thai, Italian and Moroccan touches make their presence felt.

Just a few star dishes include a heavenly gilthead tajine cooked with citrus fruits and served with Sardinian grain, fregula or a Belgian beef tartare, prepared with a traditional mayonnaise that adds a new creaminess to this famed dish. International diners will marvel at the many options, which include curries, salads and crevettes. Dessert is also big at Zozoï; Maxime is an ace at baking delicate cakes, colourful macarons and an array of desserts that whiz me to Paris’ most famous pastry shops with every bite. g Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 868. www.zozoi.com

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Il Tartufo

Il Tartufo is located on what has become a kind of nucleus of fine dining in the old Town: Calle Tetuán, home to a small but exquisite selection of international dining establishments. The cuisine served is 100 per cent Italian, owing in no small part to the culinary upbringing of its Chef, Emanuele Crisci, who hails from the famous gastronomic region of Piemonte. Il Tartufo is not your typical pizza-and-pasta establishment, however. Think more on the line of northern Italian dishes, made with exquisite ingredients such as freshly sourced white truffles (enjoy Emanuele’s sensational White Truffle Menu when this delicacy is in season).

Emanuele is just one half of the dynamic duo with a passion for Italian cuisine, of course; he is joined by his lovely wife, Hollie, who ensures guests’ every whim is catered to. Emanuele and Hollie work hard so that Il Tartufo continues to surprise and delight; recently, the restaurant underwent extensive renovation and design (see our décor feature on the work Blackshaw Interior Design completed for them), inspired by the couple’s acquisition of the upper floor of their romantic restaurant, which overlooks a tall church tower and the intimate set of tables enjoying an outdoor meal by candlelight’s.

Emanuele is every inch the seasonal chef and some of the delights we have sampled so far include a soulsoothing homemade ravioli filled with roast guinea fowl and caramelised apple in a foie gras and ginger gravy, a warm chickpea soup with grilled octopus, rosemary and crunchy polenta chips, and a healthy turbot fillet served with a leek-and-potato veloute, spinach soufflé and sautéed mushrooms. The menu also boasts a host of hearty meat and chicken dishes, all given a contemporary touch by Emanuele’s visionary cooking style. The couples’ absolute dedication to their restaurant is evident in small details – take the bread selection, which features a selection of homemade delights, including truffle butter bread, tomato and pesto bruschetta and focaccia. g C/ Tetuán, Marbella. Tel: 951 087 323. www.iltartufo-ristorante.com

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NOCHES DE VERANO CON

CENA CABARET · noches de verano de martes a domingo

SUMMER NIGHTS

CABARET DINNER Summer nights from Tuesday to Sunday ·

RESERVAS / RESERVATIONS (T) +34 952 820 900 restaurantes@puenteromano.com

PUENTE ROMANO BEACH RESORT & SPA Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n - 29602 · Marbella · Málaga · Spain

Momo

Just a few steps away from Il Tartufo is Momo, founded by a forward looking couple José María Chazaretta (Chef) and Katrin Mikschy (Restaurant Manager), who also own Lima, on the same emblematic street that is Calle Tetuán. José, who hails from Argentina, sharpened his skill at one of Marbella’s most popular restaurants (Beckitt’s), while Katrin’s background is in hotel management.

Together, the young couple have quite an ambitious aim: that of consolidating the brand that is Marbella, on an international level. Recently, they opened a third restaurant (Sutton, on Marbella’s famous Golden Mile). Momo is famed for its international cuisine, livened up with the citrus and herby flavours of Asia and Peru. José weaves his magic with fresh, wild seafood, top-grade meat and fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, creating todie-for dishes such as heavenly pork-filled gyozas, pan-fried scallops in a heavenly coriander and tarragon crust, or tempura prawns, whose flavour is heightened with mango, sweet chilli, coriander and strawberries. g C/ Tetuán 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 560. www.momomarbella.es

Lima

A little further along Calle Tetuán is the couple’s second Old Town gem, Lima, which like its big sister Momo, tantalises the tastebuds with a range of world flavours – José knows no limits and is extremely passionate about cooking, and it shows in his original yet delightfully familiar combinations of flavours and textures. The impressive weight of Japan’s culinary tradition can be savoured in dishes such as the amazingly tender Japanese seabass ceviche, different sushi choices, or the tempura tiger prawns, given an original touch with a mango salad and sweet chilli sauce. Thailand shines in two salads: crisp Thai beef and Thai Fish cake, while China makes its mark in a wonderful wok noodle dish. You are just as likely to come across traditional dishes as well, like a tender rack of lamb with rosemary thyme sauce and minty mashed potatoes, or a lovely pappardelle with scallops. g Plaza Practicante, Manuel Cantos 2, Marbella.

Tel: 952 866 630. www.limamarbella.com

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Casa Tua

It seems like two is definitely the magic number when it comes to achieving great success in Marbella’s Old Town. Milanese Chef, Adriano, is one half of a hardworking, dedicated team, the other half of which is his wife, Catherine, whose Irish charm and hospitality are one of the restaurant’s strongest points. Casa Tua, which offers picturesque terrace dining as well as a cosy interior, delights lovers of fine Italian cuisine with a sophisticated menu that gives prime importance to seasonal fare. Adriano keeps diners guessing with many specials that pay homage to the best the season has to offer. Some of the restaurant’s mouthwatering favourites include pan-seared fillet of seabass sautéed with white wine and cherry tomatoes and topped with a King prawn, served on a bed of Italian black rice risotto. Thick fillets of Irish beef (topped with mushrooms and foie gras), oven roasted rack of lamb and a cioppino mediterraneo (with fresh lobster, prawns, cod, mussels and clams in a white wine, tomato and garlic broth) reveal Adriano’s natural knack for serving up winning flavour combinations, all the while maintaining a deep respect for quality seasonal produce. g C/ Ortiz de Molinillo 14, Marbella. Tel: 951 712 227. www.casatuamarbella.com

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Altamirano

This restaurant is as much a part of the Old Town as Orange Square, the romantic street lamps or the old city walls. The family-run restaurant was founded 30 years ago, offering similar cuisine to what it is famed for today: everything from freshly caught fish, hearty seafood platters and fried ‘pescaíto’, enjoyed preferably on the restaurant’s buzzing outdoor terrace. The owners proudly announce that their restaurant is not for those seeking sophisticated fare; rather, it is the perfect choice for diners who value the flavour and health benefits of wild fish and seafood, as well as a host of traditional Spanish sides. For a truly grand meal, ask for a large fish like the besugo or voraz, cooked over live coals, washed down with one of Altamirano’s excellent Spanish wines. There is truly so much to tempt the fervent fish and seafood lover – everything from grilled or fried chipirones, to an elegant King prawn tray, grilled squid, clams in garlic and white wine, or a refreshingly and slightly sweet red pepper salad.

Altamirano isn’t the best last-minute choice for dinner, since it is usually fully booked. The good news it that it opens daily for lunch and dinner, so with due planning you should be able to savour their excellent dishes soon enough. g Plaza Altamirano 3, Marbella. Tel: 952 824 932. www.baraltamirano.es

Skina

Skina is the dreamchild of talented restaurateur, Marcos Granda and his wife. In 2004, the couple sought to bring the Old Town something different: a very intimate dining experience (there were only five tables in the quaint venue) where guests could enjoy high-end meals made with the very finest produce, prepared innovatively and bearing a modernistic, dynamic presentation. Just four years after its launch, Skina received a Michelin star, which it has held onto since. Teamwork, consistent effort and a respect for the very best produce available, make for a winning combination. At Skina, the Chef, Jaume

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Puigdengolas, steers clear of excessive technological interference, celebrating the beautiful colours and flavours of seasonal produce. The cuisines revolves around local influences – the Mediterranean Sea (home to a wealth of delightful fish and seafood varieties), the mountains (with their lush greenery and colourful flowers) and our unique climate, which gives rise to an exquisite blend of contrasting sensations and pleasures.

Skina serves an excellent ‘Andalusian sampling menu’ menu with delights such as local crayfish served with chestnut mushrooms and jus, dry rice squid served with

black garlic and Sambal Indonesian sauce, hake with tikka masala and so much more. Wine lovers take note: Granda, always present at the restaurant, is a sommelier and he is pleased to share his collection of excellent wines made by small manufacturers who pay the utmost respect to their respective soils, climates and vineyards.

g C/ Aduar 12, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 277. www.restauranteskina.com

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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Besaya Beach

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Ocean Club Cocktail Magic

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Food News

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Kevin Woodford’s Dublin

180 Pía Ninci of Messina 182

Tantalising Chardonnay

184 Wine: New Releases

ONE OF THE BEST THINGS ABOUT SUMMER IS HAVING THE TIME TO ENJOY GREAT MEALS WITH OUR LOVED ONES. THIS MONTH, WE SAMPLE THE FARE AT BESAYA BEACH, ENJOY AN ELEGANT COCKTAIL AT OCEAN CLUB, TALK WITH PÍA NINCI, HALF OF THE FAMOUS DUO BEHIND MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANT, MESSINA, AND ENJOY A CRISP GLASS OF CHARDONNAY OR TWO.

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restaurants THE GOURMET b Besaya Beach belongs to a very select number of fine dining restaurants right on the beach of the Golden Mile. This combination of setting, service and excellent food says it all.

Marbella at its best

BESAYA BEACH WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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icture stylish décor that blends the ambience of a restaurant with that of a sophisticated chill out lounge. Add the sound of waves breaking just a few metres away, attentive service and fine food, and you have the makings of something very special. As a restaurant owner, you couldn’t wish for better ingredients, yet Besaya Beach not only lives up to its privileged location, it does it proud.

Situated at the western entrance to the Golden Mile, this exclusive beachside restaurant is both secluded and lively, for though it is set on a private stretch of beach, the nearby promenade allows for a gentle coming and going of strollers and joggers who ebb and flow like the rolling waves of the Mediterranean. And it has to be stressed, location wise it doesn’t get much better than this – from within the elegant restaurant you look straight out across a beautiful expanse of sea.

LOCATION AND OCCASION Besaya Beach offers a sense of

arrival, for as you cross its threshold you enter a world of relaxed beachside sophistication. Many choose to gather for a drink beneath the sails at its outdoor lounge and cocktail bar, and it’s a popular thing to do before continuing the meal inside. In the winter, when the folding doors are closed, you are indeed inside with the amazing sea views, but as spring sets in and the breeze is free to play with the linen curtains you become one with this spectacular setting.

Not surprisingly, most people opt for a table near the windows that are now folded back, the better to take it all in. Up to this point Besaya Beach is an absolute winner and I’m glad to say that it doesn’t disappoint as a restaurant either. Quite the contrary.

If you can tear yourself away from the views you’ll find the classic menu is just the right size, offering a good selection of Spanish-Mediterranean and Asian-fusion dishes designed to perfectly match the setting. So close to the sea, much of the offering is of course focused on fine fresh fish and seafood, but it is well thought out to

g Urb. Coral Beach, Km 176, Marbella. Tel: 952 777 299. www.besayabeach.com

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also include a good deal of choice for meat lovers, vegetarians and children.

You can pop in for a stylish snack or lunch or do as we did and enjoy a memorable dinner by the sea. On a particularly balmy night we ordered a bottle of Enate 234, a refreshing chardonnay from the Somontano D.O. in Aragón. Light and crisp for a chardonnay, it proved just right for the octopus carpaccio and assorted grilled Mediterranean vegetables we chose as starters. The former, by the way, comes with a lively passion fruit vinaigrette that adds a wonderful twist and does for the carpaccio de pulpo what lemon does for its beef equivalent.

Such light but beautifully prepared and presented dishes are just what you would wish for in a setting like this, and the portions are neither too small nor too big. The first can leave you cheated and quite frankly hungry, while the second creates a sense of waste or gluttony, but I think Besaya Beach gets it just right. This is also true of the main courses, although they were so delicious this gourmand

could have easily found room for more. I savoured the wonderful prime cut of steak dressed in herbs that you finish off on the hot stone to your own preference. Hot, full of flavour and accompanied by colourful vegetables, it becomes clear why this is one of the restaurant’s favourite dishes.

But this wouldn’t be a quality seaside restaurant if the fish wasn’t also excellent, so not surprisingly the wild Alaska salmon tataki was deliciously succulent and tasty too. The chef is right not to put Texan steakhouse portions on the table, as after this highlight you still have space for one of the tempting offerings on the dessert menu.

Having changed my mind several times, I finally settled on a lemon and lime Semi-freddo with a raspberry coulis, while my companion chose a cheese platter with membrillo quince. Once more the standard was upheld, and we left this fine dining venue on the Golden Mile beach very contented. In many ways Besaya Beach is the perfect Marbella summer restaurant.

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NOCHES DE VERANO DE MARTES A DOMINGO SUMME R NIGHTS FROM TUESDAY TO SUNDAY

MED I A NO C HE HASTA LAS 6 DE LA M ADRU GADA · M IDN IG HT - 6 AM

PUENTE ROMANO BEACH RESORT & SPA Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, Km 177 T (+34) 952 820 900

restaurants THE GOURMET b

Mixology Magic Comes to Ocean Club

WORDS Marisa cutillas Photography kevin horn and Courtesy of Ocean Club

G

one are the days when all you had to worry about was whether your Martini was shaken or stirred… these days, the magic of science and art have overtaken the world of drinks and the question might just be whether you are after a homemade vanilla infused vodka, a creamy foam-topped mojito or – why not? – your cocktail served inside a sphere, with smoky aromas trapped within? Ocean Club Marbella, famed for its top culinary offerings, has now gone cocktail crazy, with Operations Manager and cocktail making genius, Momo Khani, joined by Mario Hofferer (IBA Cockail World Champion 2015), to bring guests an array of colourful, refreshing, avante-garde cocktail creations that will make this summer one of the most memorable yet.

Mario Hofferer has won numerous titles of great acclaim, including Cocktail World Champion 2011, Triple Austrian National Champion, Barman of the Year 2012 and Leader of the Year 2012. He is without a doubt the leading name on the creative cocktail scene, heading a company that provides consultancy services to the very best clubs in the world. These include beverage trends and cocktail development, with Mario and his team offering invaluable advice on made-to-measure beverage concepts.

At Ocean Club, Mario is putting his most creative side to the test alongside Momo, with whom he has worked closely for 11 years. Says Momo, “We

were together when Mario became state champ in his homeland and I was managing his business and taking part in lots of competitions myself. He continued in the cocktail trade and I went on to management.”

Although Momo is Operations Manager at Ocean Club, he has whipped up a plethora of incredible recipes you have to taste to believe. He tells me that cocktail making is no longer about following traditional recipes or making slight variations, but rather, about terms like ‘mixology’ or ‘the liquid kitchen’, which have brought technology, art and science into the mix, inspired on the work of avantegarde Chefs like Dani García or Ferran Adrià.

“Mario and I have worked together to create special cocktails for the season. Sometimes, the changes are extreme but other times, they are more subtle. We change a drink like a traditional Bloody Mary, for instance, into something special by using pepper infused vodka, tomato juice, spicy salt, pepper, homemade balsamico chilli glaće with cherry tomato, tomato caviar on celery stick and celery salt.”

Another drink he mentions that sends my senses into overdrive is the Mango Mojito, containing light rum, fresh mango, fresh lime juice, mint, lime, cane and brown sugar mix, stirred and topped with homemade mango mint foam.

A big seller this season, meanwhile, is the OC Breeze, a refreshing blend of infused lemon Vodka, homemade elderflower syrup, fresh lime juice, Midori melon liqueur, topped with lemonade and garnished with cranberries. It makes for a cool summer drink that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour, with its melon elderflower finish.

“Ocean Club mainly specialises in Champagne and we stock the best liquor brands. However, we also sometimes make flavoured liquor ourselves, by heating the latter at 60º with vanilla, or with herbs.

Syrups and reductions are also made in-house; the cocktail list is extremely personalised and exclusive, despite the fact we are operating from a beach club that serves tens of thousands of drinks a day,” enthuses Momo.

Mario will be visiting Ocean Club on specific days to create his dazzling cocktails; Momo, meanwhile, can nearly always be seen weaving his magic beneath the toasty sun. “I’ve been working in hospitality for 18 years. I was born for this industry and I hope to die in it.” Passion abounds in this young manager and cocktail maker who knows no limits when it comes to creating a true experience for each and every person who experiences one of his cocktail designs.

Enjoy the flavour, artistry and magic with these amazing cocktails at Ocean Club this season – remember, summer won’t last forever!

Mario Hofferer, World Champion cocktail designer

i www.oceanclub.es

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b THE GOURMET news

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

New Starbucks Store in Mijas

Starbucks is one of the world’s most popular café brands and the good news for Mijas residents is that the chain has opened its latest branch at El Corte Inglés Centro Comercial Costa Mijas. At the launch, Álvaro Salafranca (General Director of Starbucks Coffee Spain) and Laura Puente (Marketing Manager) welcomed clients, friends and members of the press to the store, which serves up delicious sweet and savoury foods as well as a wide variety of coffees and teas. i www.starbucks.com

Gibraltar Welcomes First

Wagamama Restaurant

© Ricardo Galeote

Popular Japanese-inspired eatery, Wagamama, opened the doors to its first restaurant in Gibraltar. The 166-seat restaurant, located in Ocean Village Marina, is just a 10-minute walk from the frontier. Some of Wagamama’s most popular dishes include ramen: bowls of fragrant soup filled with noodles plus meat or vegetables.

Spice enthusiasts can enjoy the much-loved prawn firecracker, while the new tofu chilli salad offers a fresh and crunchy treat. The menu also boasts favourites such as the chicken katsu curry: succulent chicken breast fried in golden breadcrumbs, served with the famous katsu curry sauce, rice and salad. Those after a light bite can enjoy small plates and there is a range of dishes designed especially for kids. i www.wagamama.gi

Premios de Gastronomía

de Málaga at Casino Marbella Casino Marbella was the perfect backdrop for the third edition of the Premios de Gastronomía de Málaga, oragnised by the Daily Tourist Marbella to recognise the work of top professionals from the gastronomic sector. Some of the restaurants which received a prize included Restaurante Messina, Restaurante El Lago, Hotel Villa Padierna and Restaurante Casino Marbella.

Awards were also given to top sommeliers and to special recipients for their hard work promoting the culinary industry on the Coast.

Grupo Chivite

Tasting in Marbella

Famed family of winemakers, Chivite, hosted a dynamic tasting at Michelin-starred restaurant Messina in the centre of Marbella. Select members of the press were given the opportunity to try a full range of vintages from a number of vineyards that are operated by the group, including Chivite Colección 125 Blanco and Reserva, Chivite Colección 125 Vendimia Tardía, Chivite Las Fincas Rosado, Chivite Finca de Villatuerta Chardonnay and Syrah, Conde de la Salceda Reserva, Viña Salceda Reserva and Champagne Taittinger Brut Réserve and Brut Prestige Rosé. Alicia Huidobro, Grupo Chivite’s Communications Director, presented each of wines very knowledgeably and Julián Chivite joined the invitees for a magnificent lunch, prepared by Messina’s multitalented chef, Mauricio Giovanini. i www.chivite.com

Marbella All Stars: Boosting the

Haute Cuisine Industry on the Coast The new Asociación de Amigos de Alta Gastronomía de Marbella #MarbellaAllStars greeted the press for the first time at Michelin-starred restaurant El Lago. Chef Diego del Río presented the 10 principle aims of the association, which include converting Marbella into the definitive gastronomic destination for tourists travelling to the south of Spain and creating a calendar of activities so that tourists are attracted to the area even in the traditionally slower months.

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Dublin Custom house at the Liffey river

© Gary Edwards

b THE GOURMET travel

WORDS KEVIN WOODFORD

DUBLIN T

he River Liffey runs right through the heart of Dublin and it’s often been said that while it’s not the largest capital city in Europe, it is without question a very cosmopolitan place with something to offer any visitor. The Dubliners are a gregarious nation and live by the notion of ‘craic’ a term which means ‘fun’ and this is a city where you can be guaranteed a barrel full.

The Cultural Quarter, more commonly referred to as Temple Bar, is without question one of the most vibrant places you are ever likely to visit. The old cobbled streets with talented buskers on almost every corner, are also home to a large selection of restaurants, unusual boutiques and traditional Irish pubs serving great food and the most delicious Porter (brewed just a few yards away). In addition, if you’re looking for something a little different, then a visit to The Vintage Cocktail Club, a 1920s speakeasy concept, is fun and the perfect after dinner venue.

The area from Trinity College to the canal is referred to as the Georgian quarter of the city and is renowned for its splendid architecture. The Dáil, which is the Irish Parliament, is probably one of the best architectural examples of this period. This is a charming part of the city to wander around and there

are plenty of bars and restaurants to stop for a break and a light lunch – my favourite being The Shelbourne Hotel.

If you have little interest in architecture, then perhaps a visit to Dublin’s ‘Hi Tech’ quarter in The Grand Canal area might be more enticing. Over several years, the city has gained an excellent reputation as the European headquarters for such major companies as Google, Facebook and Twitter and many more. Thus this once fairly downmarket part of the city, has been given a facelift and is now a vibrant and fiscally important part of Dublin.

For me one of the best ways to see ‘Silicon Docks’ as it is now called, is by taking the lift to the cocktail bar at the top of the Marker Hotel and enjoying a Bellini cocktail.

While both the Shelbourne and the Marker are great hotels to pop into for a light lunch or cocktail, my hotel of choice for an overnight stay is The Dylan. With only 44 rooms, each individually designed and quite unique, this place makes you feel as though you really matter. The staff are attentive and the service offered is simply perfection. Although the food served at The Tavern within the hotel is lovely, for me it’s a little too arty and I prefer to dine at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud.

Guilbaud has been a culinary

The city of Dublin is like a large glass of Guinness; cool, interesting, tantalising and very satisfying.

A visit to the pub is of the essence in Dublin

institution in Dublin for over thirty years and is the only two-starred Michelin restaurant in Ireland.

Using stunning local ingredients, they have successfully married classical cookery techniques with traditional Irish fare to produce a unique and fabulous array of dishes.

My ambition in life is to acquire the recipe for his ‘Mellow Spiced Wicklow Lamb Basque Pepper Stew, Bergamot Condiment and Taggiasca Olive Jus’ and I’d even be prepared to offer him the cream from the top of my pint of Guinness!

Finally, a trip to Dublin would be incomplete without a visit to one of the ten thousand pubs!

The Porterhouse, Dublin’s oldest microbrewery pub, is set over three storeys and can best be described as rustic but well worth a visit if you enjoy great quality beer. One of their most unusual beers is Oyster Stout, made using real oysters!

However, for an authentic Dublin

experience, I always head for Dew in Temple Bar, right next to Central Bank. This bustling pub has a fabulous atmosphere and is home to some great local musicians playing a mix of traditional and modern Irish music. This place is the epitome of Dublin, good music, fantastic local stout and plenty of Craic!

g Kevin is an Internationally renowned chef, former Head of Department for one the UK’s most prestigious Colleges of Higher Education and more latterly one of the BBC’s most versatile television presenters, having presented Holiday, Ready Steady Cook, Can’t Cook, Won’t Cook, Big Kevin, Little Kevin, Planet Cook, The Heaven & Earth Show and a host of other network shows. He was the recipient of a National Television Award and the subject of This is Your Life and acts as a consultant to several International Hospitality Companies.

Kevin Woodford is also a Presenter at BBC Watchdog.

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TASTE Signature Japanese cuisine awarded one Michelin star

KABUKI RAW

CTRA. DE CASARES S/N, 29690 CASARES, MÁLAGA · T. +34 952 93 78 00 WWW.FINCACORTESIN.COM

b THE GOURMET profile

PÍA NINCI OF MESSINA

Your Table is Your World When Messina restaurant in the city centre of Marbella achieved its highly merited Michelin star, it was testimony to more than just its excellent culinary offerings, whipped up by Chef, Mauricio Giovanini, with love, curiosity and a passion for long, slow, exquisite cooking processes. It was also a symbol of the excellent customer service which Messina has built a reputation for, thanks to the keen eye, warmth and sensitivity of Pía Ninci, maître d’ of the restaurant and also Mauricio’s wife. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

I

t seems like not so long ago that the young couple opened their restaurant, keen to bring experimental food to a savvy group of diners. Mauricio and Pía hail from Argentina and when they first arrived in Marbella, they were enticed by Spain’s reputation for cutting-edge cuisine. They sought to be part of the culinary movement that was taking the world by storm. Both Mauricio and Pía studied to become Chefs, though Pía’s undoubted passion always lay in dealing with customers and making their dining experience unforgettable.

Much has changed since the early days. Pía is now a mum of three, busily

juggling the successful business with the needs of her children (Tiago aged nine, Luz aged six, and Emilia, just four months). Thankfully, Pía is highly organised so she ensures she has enough quality time with the children.

Sundays are bliss, since it is family day. “We squeeze in as much fun as we can,” she smiles, cradling her beautiful baby girl in her arms on our meeting at a busy café.

Pía was one of three professionals (and the only woman) asked to speak at Andalucía Sabor (the most important culinary event in the south of Spain). The other speakers were none other than Didier Fertilati, the maître d' of Quique Dacosta’s threestarred Michelin restaurant, and Juan Ruiz of two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Aponiente. It was the first year that the prestigious event would feature talks on customer service, and Messina was selected owing to its reputation in the sector for exquisite customer service that goes above and beyond what one would expect even at a Michelin-starred establishment.

When I ask Pía what the secret of Messina’s success is in this area, she answers, “It’s the little things, the details that turn a dining experience

from good to spectacular.” Pía possesses the innate talent of a psychologist, her deep empathy (and vast experience as a diner herself) allowing her to understand what clients really need to feel happy. “Your table should be your world,” she tells me, and indeed, it takes plenty of skill to work out what each client expects from their experience at Messina.

“Some people just want to enjoy a quiet evening together, others are keen to know the processes that give rise to each dish.”

Creature comforts are big at Messina. Pía explains: “We noticed that often, people would bring their umbrella in on a rainy day and leave it in the cloakroom. We ensure that staff brings umbrellas and any other items left to the table.”

Part of the great service at a restaurant the calibre of Messina is evidently that of wine recommendations. Having been in the business for over 20 years, Pía has certainly amassed an impressive knowledge of wine and she doesn’t hesitate to recommend the ideal choice for a meal. “You won’t catch me recommending a €100 bottle to guests – I always aim for one priced at around €30, though if diners are

after something more exclusive we can also oblige.” She admits to being currently obsessed with sherry.

“Sherry isn’t that well understood,” she muses. “Most people know just a couple of varieties, but there are many others that merit enjoyment.”

Pía is undoubtedly at a beautiful time in her life – with a loving husband, a Michelin-starred restaurant and an ever-growing family, she continues to cherish the same values she did when she was in her 20s, above all, regarding the value of work. “After having my children, I was never able to stop working for a full four months.

We have had to work very hard to get where we are.” Like Pía, Mauricio has reached a wonderful stage of maturity, foregoing the ‘surprise’ factor for dishes made painstakingly, lovingly, often requiring several hours of work to elicit the best flavours and textures which continue to excite us.

For the talented couple, these are the busy, exciting, ever-evolving wonder years.

g Avda. Severo Ochoa 12, Marbella.

Tel: 952 864 895. www.restaurantemessina.com

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Enjoy the summer…

TEAMWORK IS DREAMWORK!

Tel: 952 113 618 C/ José Echegaray, s/n.

San Pedro de Alcántara

BE L GIAN O W NED

www.macaaobeachclubmarbella.com macaaobeachclubmarbella

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b THE GOURMET wine Not many wine columns start with a question about the music industry but would the Rolling Stones and David Bowie have succeeded in the contemporary rock/pop world if they’d started from scratch today? And what does this have to do with Chardonnay?

WORDS PHILIP BOMBER HARRIS

TANTALISING

CHARDONNAY A

plethora of formulaic bands have enjoyed a rapid and manufactured rise to the top, followed by the downward slope equally quickly, when another band or genre is deemed more fashionable. My parents’ refrain, no not: “Call that music?” but the other one : “In my day you actually had to work hard to be successful”, made me compare the wine-world to the music industry. In both, success and reputation were earned after decades of achievement and quality but today, rewards are capricious, even fleeting, with fashion dictating what wines we should all be drinking. Current vogues and misconceptions (or prejudices for the embittered) determine that Rosé wines possess a tint no darker than onion skin, with the bright cherry hues of Spanish Rosado being deemed old-fashioned (they still work beautifully with Serrano and Iberico hams though). Low alcohol wines which should be the natural domaine of Germany but which are deemed too sweet, and the perennial ABC – Anything but Chardonnay. I don’t believe that I’ve met more antipathy to one grape variety than Chardonnay generates and having written last year about Sauvignon Blanc getting a rough ride, a similar need to redress the balance for Chardonnay exists.

How did such hatred manifest itself?

It could be argued that the versatility of the grape has not helped in that a variety which is synonymous with the great and expensive white Burgundies was the same as that of: ‘Two Buck Chuck’, a wine that was everything Burgundy wasn’t. Had one’s first introduction to Chardonnay been at either end of that spectrum, love or distain would follow. Take Chardonnay’s

empathy for oak, in the way that the Riojan reds are equally at home with American or French oak. It is not the fault of the grape that its character has been masked, or that it’s too heavy or if the wine has been so over oaked, a sip is akin to taking splinters out of one’s mouth, but the members of the afore-mentioned ABC brigade often confuse the source of their dislike, believing that it’s the grape which is the problem, rather than the oak in which it has been maturing. ABC drinkers, having set out their stall, will often go on to state a preference for Chablis or Champagne.

Two other more recent movements within the wine world may also have counted against Chardonnay. The emergence of Australia and California with their tendency to produce fuller bodied wines, often with oak, together with their clever idea of simplifying labels highlighting the varietal have placed more attention on Chardonnay (particularly if one doesn’t like the wine). In contrast, the French regions of Chablis and Burgundy place emphasis on their regions or vineyards and make no mention of the grape at all.

The second and more recent phenomenon is the ‘Flying Winemaker’.

Like the current breed of super football managers such as Guardiola, Ancelotti and Benítez, a cadre of international wine-makers head the queue when acting as consultants to estates and those with a dream seeking to finance a power statement wine. Many have relied on the use of Chardonnay and new oak to bolster their blends or to leave their signature so that a sense of sameness has proliferated around the world.

This column is not written to say you must drink a specific Chardonnay, but should you wish to explore, or find yourself in other parts of the world, please look at the following.

The grape has spread from its origins of Chablis where producers like BillaudSimon are consistently good through to South Africa and New Zealand. In the former, Rustenberg and Vergelegen are great examples, particularly as their handling of oak is so much more refined now. Anthony Hamilton Russell of the synonymous estate near Hermanus is a true advocate of treating the grape with respect.

Hunters estate in New Zealand is best known for Sauvignon Blanc but seek out their Chardonnay, which is very underrated.

Outside France, Australia and California are perhaps best known for their work with Chardonnay and wines from the cooler Margaret Valley and Mornington Peninsula are worth a taste as are those from the Duckhorn estate in California.

Within Spain, the Cava producers of Juve y Camps and Raimat have pioneered Chardonnay and of course it is an integral part of Champagne, along with Pinot Noir. Explore and enjoy the majesty and elegance of this grape. e

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b THE GOURMET wine

NEW RELEASES

BIG WINEMAKERS WORDS R.G. QUECEDO

I

n the spring time, nearly all wineries present their newest vintages and labels, keen to succeed in the competitive world of wine making. As is the case with other beverages, wineries are showing a penchant for aromatising and de-alcoholising wine.

Technically speaking, of course, any beverage which has less than a 9º alcohol content cannot exactly be considered as wine.

Winemakers are developing sparkling wines and flavoured beverages with a wine base in order to seduce younger generations, with products reminiscent of a Lambrusco ‘a la española’.

In this article, we present five wines, four of which are made by big wineries.

The Enate rosé 2015 is a wine that sparked a trend among Spanish consumers, who tended to favour either Navarra or Enate rosé.

LÓSTREGO 2014

D.O. Valdeorras Grape variety: 100 per cent Godello Bodegas Palacios Vinoteca Price: €12

This wine is made by Nozaleda and, like all other Enate wines, its label bears artwork created by contemporary artists, who won a competition organised by the winery.

Next up is the white wine, Barbadillo Blanco de Blancos, which reflects its maker’s aim to consolidate its leadership in the white wine sector. Attractive sales have certainly been garnered thus far by its well-known Castillo de San Diego. This wine is easy to ‘understand’ and even easier to consume and its label is attractive indeed.

This summer will reveal the extent to which it is well received.

Palacios, with wineries in Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Valdeorras, presents a magnificent single-variety godello called Lóstrego 2014, which merits enjoyment. This bottle is the winery’s first vintage wine.

BARBADILLO BLANCO DE BLANCOS

D.O. Vinos de la Tierra de Cádiz Grape variety: Moscatel, Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc Bodegas Barbadillo Price: €7

PRIMA 2014

D.O. Toro Grape variety: 100 per cent Tinta de Toro Bodegas y Viñedos Maurodos Price: €9

The name Mariano García may not mean much to you, yet this oenologist headed prestigious winery, Vega Sicilia, for years.

García was one of the first to support the Toro wine district in Zamora. Following the success garnered by his San Román wine, he released another, more affordable bottle: Prima 2014 – a more ‘domesticated’ wine than is customary in this land of bold wines, yet bearing a magnificent fruity elegance.

Finally, we present a cava by Freixenet: Seguro Viudas Vintage 2011, a wonderful, ultra dry brut with a certain aroma of pastries. Segura Viudas boasts a wide range of cavas, which form part of the winery’s ‘premium’ selection.

ENATE Rosado 2015

D.O. Somontano Grape Variety: 100 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon Bodegas Enate Price: €8

SEGURA VIUDAS Vintage 2011

D.O. Cava Grape variety: Macabeo y Parellada Bodegas Segura Viudas (Grupo Freixenet) Price: €9

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The number one venue for relaxed dining with fab food, freaky cocktails and funky music!

JOIN US AS WE TAKE YOU ON A FAST SPIN WITH GREAT FOOD AND AWESOME COCKTAILS. A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE WITH A GREAT ATMOSPHERE, IN GREAT SURROUNDINGS TO A BACKDROP OF THE BEST CUTTING EDGE MUSIC.

www The best days always make the dirtiest laundry!

Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús, Marbella (next to Goya cinema in Banús) Tel: +34 951 319 292 Open every day 10am till midnight www.thelaunderettebanus.com

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. . THE GUIDE listings

the guide

Price guide per head for a three-course meal with wine

*restaurants

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

LISTINGS PET NEWS WHAT’S ON STARS FOR may FAMILY FUN €60 plus

Yanx

origen

Calderón Estébanez 19, Marbella. Tel: 952 774 578

american

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

Centro Plaza, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 861

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

le bistroman

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

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

argentinean

HARD ROCK CAFÉ

Jacks Open seven days a week from noon till late. Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 813 625, Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 563 673

Mr. gourmet burger Open from 6pm ‘til late every evening.

Avda. Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 785 257

Buenos Aires South Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

C/ Virgen del Pilar, 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 779 297

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

gauchos

ROUTE 66

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village. CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 897 744

Open 10am until midnight every day.

Plaza Antonio Banderas 17/29, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 951 136 333

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

Hacienda patagonica

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

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

Valderrama Restaurant

belgian

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

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

Tel: 952 786 688

gluten-free

El Coto

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

french

celicioso

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

At the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile.

Tel: 952 820 900

greek

Casa mono

Red Pepper

Open Monday to Saturday from 1pm to 11pm. C/

Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

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listings THE GUIDE .

Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 148

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

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

La pArrilla

Mumtaz

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

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch 1-4pm and dinner from 8pm-midnight. Ctra de Cádiz, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

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

Asador guadalmina

MARBELLA CLUB GRILL

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

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

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

cabaña nagüeles

Old Town Grill

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

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

Tel: 952 867 306

El Carnicero

Restaurante Rancho

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

Tel: 952 886 307

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

El Carnicero 2

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Odeon, Locales 9-10, C/ Las Yedras, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 003 434

grills

Asador Criollo Grill

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

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

VOVEM

indian

Jaipur palace

international 11&11 Restobar

Open Monday to Thursday from 7pm ‘til late, on Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 4pm and from 7pm ‘til late and on Sunday from 10am ‘til late.

Dársena de Levante, Local 39, Estepona Port. Tel: 951 703 060

Aidan’s bar & Grill

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

amigos Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday.

C/ Málaga 3, Benahavis. Tel: 952 855 175

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

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

Open Thursday to Tuesday for dinner from 5:30pm. Closed Wednesdays. C/ 4/5 Montemayor, Cancelada (opposite the Farmacia). Tel: 952 887 828

Bahia beach

Al Rolo

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

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

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

Albert & simon

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

barbq artesanal burgers beach house Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Coto de los Doles, Carril del Relojero, Elviria, Marbella.

Tel: 952 839 458

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

Open every night except Tuesday for dinner.

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

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

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

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

el rancho del puerto

Jaipur Purple

alberts

Besaya Beach

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

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

Tel: 952 888 353

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Cabopino.

Tel: 952 836 886

Grill del puerto

Massala

Amanhavis

Open Monday to Thursday for lunch, Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch. Urb. Coral Beach s/n, km 176, Marbella.

El gaucho de banús

beckitts

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. THE GUIDE listings

Tel: 952 777 299

BIBO

Open every day from 6pm except Sundays.

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

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

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

celima

Black and white Marbella

cerrado del águila

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

Tel: 952 815 607

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

EL CASTILLO

bono’s beach

c’est la vie

El Corzo

Open daily from 11am to 9pm. Urb. Costabella, Avda. Cervantes s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 839 236

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Paseo Las Palmeras, 15, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 783 394

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

cortijo fain

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

bora bora beach Open daily from 11am to 2am. Paseo Marítimo de San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 789 100

Brunings Kitchen continuously open Monday to Friday from 1pm to 11pm. Saturday – dinner only. Closed Sunday. Las Palmeras 19, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 786 156

CAFÉ DE RONDA

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

Tel: 952 895 639.

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

del mar Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Puente Romano. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 7pm.

Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 149

Don Leone

Cafetería ke

D-wine

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

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

Tel: 951 339 309

Casanis

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

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

Tel: 952 880 126 Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. C/ El Pilar s/n, Benahavís. Tel: 681 294 442

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

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

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

Tel: 952 809 500

El oceano beach hotel Restaurant & Spa

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

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 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

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

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

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 Open from 11am until midnight. Closed Sundays.

Avda Las Palmeras 15, San Pedro Alcántara.

Tel: 952 780 927

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listings THE GUIDE .

GD Gourmet deli marbella 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

hermosa Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm.

Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino.

Tel: 952 837 483

hills cafe Open every day for breakfast and lunch, except Monday. Dinner by reservation is possible on Friday and Saturday. Tel: 952 856 171

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

hotel marbella club buffet

and on Sunday for lunch only. Ctra. Ronda, km. 46, Urb. Las Medranas, local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 951 275 750

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

la brisa

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

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

Tel: 952 762 000

la tienda

los bandidos

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

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

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

La Veranda

Los naranjos restaurant

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner.

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

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

Tel: 952 816 105

LA CANTINA DEL GOLF

La Verandah

Macaoo beach

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

Tel: 951 318 815

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

Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 136. Playa Guadiaro, Torreguadiaro, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 615 998

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

La veranda lobby bar

Mare nostrum

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

Open daily for breakfast and dinner. At the Hotel Amàre Marbella. Avda. Severo Ochoa 8, Marbella.

Tel: 800 843 493

Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm.

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

La cabaña del mar

la FAMIEKE

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

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner from 7pm.

Closed Sunday. Calle Cruz, Plaza Puente Ronda, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 412

il mare

LA GRANADA DIVINO

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday.

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

karma

La Loggia

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

LA biznaga

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 Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner

La Terraza

La Terraza

CN340, km. 183, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 396

los arcos

Magna Café Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C/ Calderón de la Barca, s/n. Tel: 952 929 578

LIMA

Mc café

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

les cubes

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Oasis Club,

Messina

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. THE GUIDE listings

MOJO

648 502 822

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from 8pm ‘til late. Monte Paraíso Golf, Marbella.

Tel: 951 217 272

passion café

momo marbella

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

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

puente romano beach club

mos eisley

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm to 12am.

Closed Mondays. Urb. El Pilar, C/ Ojén, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 951 196 609

Miraflores Golf Restaurant Open daily for Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 199. Urb. Riviera Golf. Tel: 952 931 941

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

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

ocean club Open daily for lunch and snacks. Avda. Lola Flores s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 137

OCHO Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

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

PURO BEACH Open daily for lunch and dinner. Laguna Village, Playa El Padrón, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 800 015

Restaurante royal Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Torrequebrada, Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 441 414

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

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 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

smart café Open 8:30am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9:30 am to 6pm on weekends. C/ Los Olivos 1, above the Enjoy Golf Academy in front of Aloha College. Tel: 690 001 045

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

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

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

sutton Open nightly for dinner. Urb. Marbellamar 93, Marbella.

Tel: 952 770 760

tanino Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

CN 340, km 168, Benamara, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 259

Terra Sana Open Monday to Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nueva Andalucía next to the Casino. Tel: 952 906 205. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 977. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 951 901 050. C.C. Mary Sol, Sotogrande. Tel: 956 796 931. C.C. La Cañada,

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listings THE GUIDE .

Marbella. Tel: 952 868 663. C.C. Parque Miramar, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 663 937

the launderette Open daily 10am to midnight. Avda. Julio Iglesias s/n, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 951 319 292

the little geranium Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Ronda, La Cala de Mijas, Mijas Costa (pedestrian street behind the Town Hall). Tel: 952 493 602

The meeting room Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays. Avda. Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella. Tel: 952 772 577

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

THE PLAYWRIGHT Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Manzana, Locales 8-11, Pueblo Los Arcos, Elviria. Tel: 952 830 868

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

Trocadero arena 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

Trocadero Sotogrande Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paseo del Parque s/n, Sotogrande.

Tel: 956 795 012

UNI Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. At the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile. Tel: 952 820 900

Venta garcía 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 Open daily for lunch from 1pm to 6pm.

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

zest 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

zozoI Open Wednesday to Monday for dinner. Closed Tuesday. Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 868

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

aragona Open every day for dinner. Avda. del Mar 3, Marbella. Tel: 951 134 322

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

CONRADS IL Ristorante Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.Avda. del Prado s/n,

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. THE GUIDE listings

Edif. Sport Café, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 628 593 409

Da Bruno Open all day. Da Bruno Cabopino: CN-340 Km. 194,7. Tel: 952 831 918. Da Bruno a Casa: Marbella Mar, Local 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 521 – closed on Sunday. Da Bruno A San Pedro: Avda. del Mar, local 1E, San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 860 – closed on Monday. Da Bruno Sul Mare: Edif. Skol, Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 318/19. Da Bruno Mijas Costa: Ctra. de Mijas, km. 3.6, Mijas. Tel: 952 460 724

Da Paolo Open everyday for lunch and dinner. Muelle Ribera, casa G-H, local 43, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 816 453

Don giovanni Open Friday to Monday for dinner. At Hotel Finca Cortesín. Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

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

gold restaurant

(opposite the Crown Plaza Hotel), Estepona.

Tel: 952 885 765

dinner. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 909 990

la pappardella di estepona

Pizzeria Picasso

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

Tel: 952 802 144

Open daily from 12 noon. Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 669

LA pappardella sul mare

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

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

la trattoria de marbella Open daily from 1pm to 12.30am. Closed on Monday. C/ Las Malvas, Edif. Online, Local 4, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 591

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

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

Metro

Il Tartufo

nunos

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

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

la fiorentina

O mamma mia

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. El Pilar, Local 11

Open every day except Sunday for lunch and

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

portofino laguna village ristorante san martino

oriental Asia Food

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

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

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

asiatico zen

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Tuesday lunch. C/ Lirios s/n, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 817 691

Rosmarino della piazza

BAMBOO

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

Tel: 952 850 148

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Ctra. Istan km 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 906 674

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

Tel: 952 771 798

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

valparaíso

golden wok

Open nightly for dinner. Ctra. Mijas – Fuengirola, km. 14, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 485 996

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

Dragón de Oro

Villa Tiberio

Hanuri KOREAN BBQ & BAR

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

mediterranean

Open Tuesday-Friday dinner only from 6pm ‘til late and Saturday and Sunday for lunch and dinner.

C.C. Los Jarales 6, Calahonda.

Tel: 951 406 082/ 952 932 011

Restaurante bar carmen

KABUKI raw

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

Tel: 952 806 739

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

Tel: 952 937 800

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listings THE GUIDE .

Kaiden Sushi

Sukho Thai

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

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

Kama Kura

sushi des artistes (HIDEYOSHI wagyu)

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 lunch and dinner.

CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking.

Tel: 952 857 403

Makitake

Sushi Katsura

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ribera s/n (above disco Seven), Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 811 592

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

meca

Tai Pan

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

Tel: 952 777 893

Namazake

Ta-kumi

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Puente Romano. Tel: 952 820 900

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

Osaka

Teppanyaki samurai

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

Sakura Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda.

Jardines del Puerto, L.5, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 817 536

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

Tel: 952 888 710

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Puerto Deportivo 13, Edif. Poniente, Estepona.

Tel: 951 318 445

top thai Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, 64, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 319 778

Tse yang Dimsum club Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sundays.

At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 909 990

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

Wasabi Open daily from 1.30 pm for lunch and dinner.

C.C. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 577

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

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

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

Restaurante El bote

Aloha restaurant

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 660 084

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

Open every evening for dinner from 6pm to 11.30pm. Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 811 285

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 165

thai gallery

Skandies

Santiago

At Plaza Village at the Hotel Puente Romano.

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

Tel: 952 818 392

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

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

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

Tel: 952 813 675

tHapa thai

scandinavian

seafood

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

palapa

spanish Bahía

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

Casa de la era

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. THE GUIDE listings

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

CENTRO CULTURAL EL INGENIO La Cañada. Marbella. Tel: 902 333 231

El Calvario, near Town Hall, 9am-1pm

Mesón el adobe

cines teatro goya

Vélez Málaga

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays.

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

Tel. 600 003 144

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

Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

mi taberna

MULTICINES ALFIL

Friday Benalmádena

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

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

Avda. Camilo José Cela, s/n. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 800 056

In the area between Tivoli World and the Plaza San Pedro, 9am-1pm

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

Paellas y Más

MULTICINES MEDITERRÁNEO

Calahonda

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

Mijas. Tel: 952 663 738

Calypso, 9am-2pm

PALACIO DE LA PAZ

Las Chapas

Vila do grove

Recinto Ferial. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 589 349

La Víbora, 9am-2pm

la cocina

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

Tel: 952 813 415

TEATRO ALAMEDA

Rincón de la Victoria

Calle Córdoba 9, Málaga. Tel: 952 213 412

Málaga. Plaza de la Iglesia, 9am-1pm

TEATRO CERVANTES Ramos Marín, 199, Málaga. Tel: 952 224 109

Saturday Coín

Open only for lunch – call for times. Ctra. de Ojén, km 0.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 625

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

DGust Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Avda. Duque de Ahumada, Marbella.

Tel: 952 863 780

Hacienda

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Wednesday. CN 340, km. 151, Arena Beach. Tel: 952 796 320

La máquina

vegetarian

Torre del Mar

Garcia Morato, s/n. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 968

Avda. Europa, 9am-1pm

CINESA LA CAÑADA

Torremolinos

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

TEATRO CIUDAD DE MARBELLA

C/ Urbano Pineda, 9am-1pm

loving hut

Plaza Ramón Martínez, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 159

La Cala

Open daily from 10.30am to 11.30pm. Avda. Miguel Cano 11, Marbella. Tel: 951 245 889

TEATRO SALON VARIETES

Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

Emancipación 30. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 474 542

Maro

*cinemas & theatres

VERACRUZ CINES

Close to the Nerja Caves, 9am-1pm

Veracruz. Estepona. Tel: 952 800 056

Mijas Costa

AUDITORIO MUNICIPAL MIJAS

YELMO CINEPLEX

Las Lagunas, 9am-2pm

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

Plaza Mayor. Tel: 902 220 922

Nueva Andalucía

La red

AUDITORIO MUNICIPAL TORREMOLINOS

Open daily from 9.30am to 6pm. Playa La Fontanilla, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 450

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

*street markets

Next to the bullring. Park near CN340 and walk upwards, 9am-1pm

La Taberna del Alabardero

Marbella. Tel: 952 825 035

Monday benahavís

Sunday benahavís

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

Arts & Crafts. La Ermita Park, from 10pm

Marbella

Estepona

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

AUDITORIO PARQUE DE LA CONSTITUCIÓN

Fairground (Avda. de Juan Alameda), 9am-2:30pm

Puerto Deportivo, 9am-1pm

Tuesday Churriana

Fuengirola

9am-1pm

Málaga

Fuengirola

Next to Rosaleda football stadium, 9am-2pm

Recinto Ferial (close to the CN340, on the same side as the bullring), 9am-2:30pm

Sotogrande

Monda

*post offices

C/ Los Huertos, 8am-2:30pm

Nerja

Recinto Ferial, 9am-2:30pm

At the Marina, 9am-1pm

Calahonda

C/ Chaparil, 9am-1pm

C.C. El Zoco. Tel: 952 932 175

Wednesday Alhaurín de la Torre

El corte inglés

Avda. del Limón, 9am-2pm

Fuengirola

benahavís

Tel: 952 467 843

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

Estepona

Benalmádena Costa

C/ Málaga 82–84. Tel: 952 800 537

(Second hand items) Recinto Ferial, 10am-2pm

Fuengirola

Calahonda

Pza. los Chinorros. Tel: 952 474 384

Calypso, 9am-2pm

Marbella

Estepona

Jac. Benavente, 14. Tel: 952 772 898

Avda. Juan Carlos II, 9am-2:30 pm

Nueva Andalucía

Istán

C/ Jazmines. Tel: 952 810 887

At the entrance to the town, 9am-2pm

San Pedro

La Cala

Pizarro, 41. Tel: 952 780 39

Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

*train

Thursday Alhaurín El Grande By the Guardia Civil Offfices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

Málaga Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre.

9am-1pm

San Pedro By the sports pavilion, in the Divina Pastora district, 9am-2pm

Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

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

DOGS HAVE

Measurable IQs Too! New research from the London School of Economics and Political Science and the University of Edinburgh, has shown that dogs have measurable IQs, just like people. The researchers compared the reaction of dogs to that of humans when taking an IQ test. Generally, people who do well in one part of an IQ test, do well in others. The researchers created a dog IQ test and put 68 pooches to the test. The dogs completed a series of tests including navigation, tests to see if they could tell the difference between different quantities of food, the ability to follow human directions, etc. The researchers found that dogs, too, tend to either do well in all parts of the test, or not so well as a whole. Results show that even within one breed, IQ scores can vary considerably.

TOP APPS for Pet Lovers The Internet has made things so much better for animal enthusiasts, enlightening us on symptoms, signs and illnesses that can plague our beloved pets. Some of the most informative apps available for this purpose include Pet Coach, an app which provides advice and tips from qualified vets, trainers, and other pet care experts. Users can either log onto the forums or ask specific advice. Of course, you should always pay your vet a visit if your dog is not feeling well, but it is nice to be able to learn more about a condition your dog may have, or to inquire about whether a matter is one meriting a visit to emergency. Another great app is PupTox, which informs you of all toxins for your pet (including foods, chemicals, plants, beverages, etc.), and gives you an estimated toxicity level and symptoms of poisoning. MapMyDogWalk is a cool app for fitness buffs, since it tracks the routes you complete alongside your treasured companion.

SlimDoggy, meanwhile, is an essential app for dogs who are a bit on the pudgy side. The app logs your dog’s food consumption and physical activity, providing you wtih tips and information as well as logs of weight loss or gain over time.

YOUNGER DOGS Learn Faster

Scientists at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna recently published a study indicating that while you can teach an old dog new tricks, it may take a little longer than it would have when they were young. The study was undertaken with 95 Border Collies aged between five months and 13 years. The dogs completed a series of touchscreen tests, to test for learning, logical reasoning and memory.

The study showed that the ability to learn something new depended on the dog’s age. It involved showing dogs two images – when the dogs touched one, they were rewarded; when they touched the other, they were not. The researchers found that the older dogs needed more goes before solving the test correctly. They were also slower at changing fixed habits.

Nevertheless, golden oldies do have one shining hope; the study showed that older dogs are actually better at logical reasoning! Moreover, their long-term memory isn’t affected by age at all.

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what’s on...

. THE GUIDE what’s on

EVENTS IN JULY Until September 11 ART – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso de Málaga presents Juego de Ojos. Fondos de la Colección – a new exhibition exploring the prominence of eyes in many of Picasso’s works. Featuring drawings, ceramics, illustrated books and more.

Also until this date, view Jackson Pollock’s mural, Energy Made Visible, a large-scale painting commissioned

by Peggy Guggenheim. www.museopicassomalaga.org

Until September 30 HOLISTIC RETREATS – MIJAS COSTA

Throughout summer and until the end of September, sign up for a four-day holistic retreat, where you will learn asanas, pranayama, meditation, silence, yoga, nidra and mantras, with the aim of achieving a balance of body, mind and spirit. For further information, Tel: 625 853 353.

NEW AND REGULAR EVENTS Monthly on different days AMERICAN CLUB – MARBELLA

The American Club Costa del Sol Chapter meets monthly for excursions, sports and social events. Tel: 952 772 789. www.americanclubcostadelsol.com

AMIGOS DE LA CULTURA – COSTA DEL SOL

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 helps you with everything from relationship breakdowns to depression, poor communication with loved ones or financial stress, at her weekly group meetings, which start at 7:30pm. For information on locations, info@advancedpersonaltherapy.com

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday JIVE – MIRAFLORES, ESTEPONA AND LA DUQUESA

Learn to dance with Colin and the team from Jive Spain at Miraflores Restaurant on Tuesday, El Campanario on Wednesday and El Goleto at Duquesa on Friday. For precise times, colin@jivespain.com

Every Wednesday ART – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso de Málaga offers free guided tours in English (included in the entry price), from 11:30am to 2pm.

Tickets cost €8 for adults. Children enter for free. www.museopicassomalaga.org

FLAMENCO – MIJAS

Every Wednesday at 12pm, a dazzling flamenco show takes place at the Plaza Virgen de la Peña in Mijas Pueblo. www.mijas.es

Every first Wednesday of the month CULTURE AND COCKTAIL – MARBELLA

Every Saturday MARKETS – PUERTO BANÚS

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

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 Thursday NETWORKING – MARBELLA

OCEAN CLUB SATURDAYS – PUERTO BANÚS

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

Saturday July 23

Tuesday July 26

Top female flamenco dancer, Sara Baras, delights the crowd at the Plaza de Toros La Malagueta at 10pm.

For tickets, www. malagaentradas.com

If for any reason you can’t make it to Grammy award-winning performer, Alejandro Sanz’s concert at the Starlite Festival, head for the Palacio de Deportes J.M. Martín Carpena in Málaga. The concert starts at 10pm and tickets can be purchased on www.malagaentradas.com

SARA BARAS – MÁLAGA

Catch some rays by the pool and enjoy a fabulous lunch every Saturday while you enjoy live DJ music and a superb party atmosphere. www.oceanclub.es

Every First Sunday of the month OPEN DAY – MIJAS

PAD animal shelter, Cerros del Águila, welcomes visitors from 12pm-3pm.

Further information, Tel: 952 486 084. www.padcatsanddogs.org

Saturday July 2 RAT PACK – MIJAS COSTA

The Rat Pack will be performing at The Plaza Beach in Doña Lola from 7:30pm, with proceeds going to Cudeca. For further information, www.cudeca.org

Tuesday July 5 to Sunday July 10 FERIA – ESTEPONA

The feria de Estepona will be taking place, with music, dance and drinks in the daytime and fairground rides at night. For a full programme of events, www.estepona.es

ALEJANDRO SANZ – MÁLAGA

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Saturday July 9 MARC ANTHONY – SAN PEDRO

Teeny boppers pull out your fluorescent belts! Jóvenes Gigantes is the name of a concert featuring all your favourite stars – Abraham Mateo, Calum, Maverick, Amelie and more. At 5pm the San Pedro de Alcántara Football Stadium. For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

Sunday July 17 GLOBAL GIFT GALA – MARBELLA

He is arguably Latin music’s most successful crooner; this month, Marc Anthony graces the Coast with his dulcet tones, at the San Pedro de Alcántara Football Stadium at 9pm.

For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

One of the year’s swishest charity events, the Global Gift Gala, will be taking place at the Gran Melía Don Pepe hotel. Featuring live music and food by Victor Carracedo, Oscar Velasco, Diego Gallegos and Jean-Philippe Darcis. www.globalgiftgala.org

PABLO LÓPEZ – MÁLAGA

ANI LORAK – MARBELLA

Without a doubt, one of Spain’s most popular young artists, Pablo López, performs at the Plaza de Toros La Malagueta at 10pm. For tickets, www.malagaentradas.com

Saturday July 9, July 23 and July 30 GOLF – THROUGHOUT THE COAST

The Andalucía Golf Challenge Circuit will be taking place for the sixth year in a row. The event, organised by Andalucía Golf/España Golf, will be taking place on July 9 at Río Real, on July 23 at Finca Cortesín and on July 30 at Flamingos, and will also run in August. For a full programme of events, www.andaluciagolf.com

Vivacious singer Ani Lorak, will be performing at the Palacio de Congresos de Marbella at 9pm. www.marbellacongresos.com

Monday July 18 SEAL – MARBELLA

Seal will be delighting audiences at the Puente Romano Tennis Club at 10pm.

For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

Tuesday July 19 RAPHAEL – MARBELLA

One of Spain’s most enigmatic performers of all time, Raphael, will be performing in Marbella as part of his Symphonic Tour. At the Plaza de Toros

de Marbella at 10pm. For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

Tuesday July 19 to Friday August 12 ART – BENALMÁDENA

The Delegación de Cultura de Benalmádena will be hosting a painting exhibition by Mª Pilar Ibáñez Amela, famed for her colourful portraits. The exhibition can be viewed from 10am to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm. www.benalmadena.es

Saturday July 23 FLAMENCO – ESTEPONA

Enjoy a live flamenco show by prestigious company Tomás Sánchez Ballet Zambra at the Teatro Auditorio Felipe VI at 9pm. For tickets, www.malagaentradas.com

Friday July 29 EL BARRIO – MÁLAGA

El Barrio will be performing his latest hits at the Plaza de Toros de la Malagueta at 10pm. For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

Saturday July 30 ARMIN ONLY EMBRACE (ARMIN VAN BUUREN) – SAN PEDRO EDM genius, Armin Van Buuren, will be performing at the San Pedro de Alcántara Football Stadium at 10pm.

For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

Saturday July 30 CLASSICAL MUSIC – SOTOGRANDE

Música con Encanto presents the Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra of Köln, playing in Sotogrande as part of their Classical Music All Over the World tour. Featuring music

by Vivaldi, Pachelbel, Mozart, and Pablo de Sarasate. At the Espacio Cultural Osvaldo Lobalzo, Puerto de Sotogrande, at 9pm. For further information or to book a ticket, Tel: 689 000 944. www.musicaconencanto.org

Friday August 5

CRAIG DAVID – PUERTO BANÚS Craig David presents TS5 – a mix of old skool anthems from R&B to swing beat and from garage to basement, as well as chart topping House hits. Craig will be DJing, singing and working the crowd all night long. www.aqwamistbanus.com

STARLITE FESTIVAL

Marbella’s most famous music festival, Starlite, will be taking place in July and August at the Cantera de Nagüelles. Upcoming concerts include: July 14: Juan Magán: This popular DJ, rapper and remixer who has worked with everyone from Juanes to Pitbull, Bob Sinclair and Paulina Rubio.

Juan Magán

Clínica Buchinger Wilhelmi presents Triosence: a fundraising concert for cancer hospice, Cudeca, featuring Bernhard Schüler (piano), Matthias Nowak/Ingo Senst (bass) and Stephan Emig (drums). The group, called ‘an example of musical trinity’, was founded in 1999. The concert will start at 8:45pm, with tickets costing €15.

Tel: 952 564 910. pr@cudeca.org

Saturday July 16 ABRAHAM MATEO, CALLUM AND MORE – SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA

July 15: DJ Fonsi Nieto will be making

you dance all night with his wonderfully spun music.

July 16: Robert Plant & The Sensational Space Shifters: Former Led Zeppelin

front man will be rocking the house with hits old and new.

July 22: God Save the Queen: Enjoy one of the top Queen tribute acts in the world.

July 24: Santana: This Grammywinning musician will be bringing his unique vibe to Marbella.

July 28: Discover what dance is all about in DJ Nano’s hotly solicited concert.

July 29: Charles Aznavour:

This French/Armenian crooner is guaranteed to make you feel romantic and nostalgic on this special evening.

July 30: Cuban duo Alexander Delgado and Randy Malcolm, who have worked with greats like Marc Anthony and Pitbull, will be bringing their Latin rhythms to the Coast.

July 31: Phantom of the Opera:

Over 80 musicians and 60 singers will step onstage to tell the tale of one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s best musicals.

August 1: Tom Jones: The Welsh crooner will delight fans with all his greatest hits.

August 3: Il Divo: This group is all about opera singing with a modern touch.

August 4: José Luis Perales: Perales is one of Spain’s most talented singer/ songwriters of all time; he will be performing his greatest hits on this magical evening.

August 5: El Gusto es Nuestro:

Il Divo

Friday July 8 CHARITY CONCERT – MARBELLA

Ana Belén, Victor Manuel, Miguel Ríos and Joan Manuel Serrat will be performing their biggest hits to a packed audience.

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. THE GUIDE stars

www.russellgrant.com

Russell Grant’s Monthly Horoscope July 2016

The New Moon on the 4th is ideal for pampering yourself with a salon treatment, spa visit or shopping excursion

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd Your charisma is second to none at the beginning of July. If you’re in a relationship, your partner could be quite jealous of all the attention you receive. The New Moon on the 4th is ideal for pampering yourself with a salon treatment, spa visit or shopping excursion. If you’re single, you could meet a special person during the first half of the month. Sparks will fly with someone who exudes an air of mystery. Resist the temptation to play second fiddle to your amour. Being assertive in the early days will set the tone for a healthy relationship. Don’t get drawn into a power struggle with officials or officialdom during July. Do your best to adjust to your boss’s offbeat leadership style. The Full Moon on the 19th is ideal for signing a contract, getting engaged or exchanging marriage vows. Work will become less stressful as the month draws to a close.

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ARIES [21 mar - 20 APR]

Home life will be your primary focus in early July. If you want to relocate, you could do so near the 4th, when the New Moon energises your domestic sphere. Alternatively, you might add a new member to your household during this magical time. Don’t get drawn into power struggles with your romantic partner or boss during July. Maintaining a tactful silence will keep these relationships intact. You could be put in an embarrassing position at work during the second half of the month. Try keeping your cool. Displaying grace under fire will improve your career prospects. The Full Moon on the 19th could be a great time to get engaged or married. If you’re single, you may meet someone special or enter into a business alliance. A passionate relationship will allow you to handle career challenges with relative ease. Things that once bothered you at work will seem insignificant at the end of July.

TAURUS [21 apr - 21 may]

Acquiring valuable skills should be your primary focus in early July. Use the power of the New Moon on the 4th to embark on a course of study.

The more you know, the easier it will be to land your dream job. Don’t let an imposing teacher undermine your confidence. You may not be the fastest learner, but you work hard. Your family will be especially supportive during the middle of July. If you feel anxious, turn to your nearest and dearest for encouragement. You’ll fare well on an important test on the 19th, when the Full Moon will mark an educational turning point. Go out and celebrate with relatives. A creative breakthrough could occur at the end of July. Pay careful attention to your dreams, as they can give you a useful insight into how to proceed with a writing, design or music project. If you play your cards right, you will be able to sell the fruits of your labour.

GEMINI [22 MAY - 21 JUN]

Financial opportunities will abound at the beginning of July. This is the best time of the entire year to increase your income. The New Moon on the 4th will help you land a lucrative job that provides lots of emotional satisfaction. Being paid to exercise your imagination will be like an answer to a prayer. Beware of getting involved in a war of words with an imposing colleague. Your ideas have just as much merit as theirs.

Find ways of working together; it’s too early in the game to engage in an intense rivalry. Your employer may decide to send you for additional training in July.

Embrace this opportunity to expand your skill set. This will increase your value on the job market. The Full Moon on the 19th could result in a huge windfall from an inheritance, dividend or tax refund. Use this money to buy something that will improve your daily life, like an appliance, bicycle or computer.

LEO [24 Jul - 23 Aug]

The beginning of July will be a quiet time for you. Take this opportunity to rest, relax and recuperate from an extremely social time. The New Moon on the 4th is perfect for getting a massage or communing with nature. Enjoy whatever activity replenishes your spirit. Work could be stressful during the first half of the month, due to some power struggles among colleagues. Try to ride out this storm. You’ll be in a much better position to find another job during the second half of the month, when your personality will be more potent. The Full Moon on the 19th could mark a

lucrative job offer; be sure to accept this position, as there will be lots of growth potential at this company. A business trip could be in the cards as July comes to a close. This journey could be very beneficial for you, both personally and professionally.

VIRGO [24 AUG - 23 SEP]

You’ll be extremely popular in the opening days of July, so take advantage of it. If you’re looking for love, you could find it with a member of your social circle. Be sure to attend a social gathering or professional conference on the 4th, when the New Moon will allow you to form an alliance with an influential cultural, spiritual or artistic leader. Your creative juices will flow freely throughout the first half of the month.

This would be a perfect time to launch a design project.

Try not to pay too much attention to a disapproving teacher. Your methods are unique and will find a niche if you continue to develop your ideas. It will become easier to manage your money around the middle of the month; take this opportunity to draw up a sensible budget. The Full Moon on the 19th marks an exciting turning point in a romance. An engagement or marriage could be on the cards.

LIBRA [24 SEP - 23 Oct]

Career opportunities will abound in early July. The New Moon on the 6th is ideal for accepting or starting a job that relies on your leadership ability.

Beware of getting drawn into a power struggle during the first half of the month. It’s better to listen more than you speak when you are assessing the team’s strengths and weaknesses. More money will become available for luxuries during July. Treat yourself to some clothes, jewellery and toiletries; you’re long overdue for a shopping spree. The Full Moon on the 19th marks a turning point in your home life. This would be a great time to buy or sell a property. You’ll emerge from this deal in a much stronger financial position. Your social life will heat up as July turns to August. Attend as many parties, dinners and get togethers as possible. You’re sure to make lots of new friends.

SCORPIO [24 Oct - 22 NOV]

Expanding your horizons should be your first priority in early July. Taking an adult education course, embarking on a spiritual journey and going on an overseas trip are among the possibilities. The New Moon on the 4th will be perfect for venturing into unfamiliar territory. If you’re single, you could meet someone special at a gallery, museum or theatre. An overly critical colleague will create stress at work. Resist the urge to tell this pest exactly what you think of their methods. It’s important to protect your professional reputation this month. Entering a contest is strongly advised during the second half of July; you can easily outperform the competition. The Full Moon on the 19th is ideal for signing a contract or negotiating a financial deal. Beware of reacting badly to an authority figure’s instructions at the end of the month. Maintaining grace under fire will pave the way for future success. Keep your cool.

SAGITTARIUS [23 NOV - 21 DEC]

The opening days of July will be passionate ones. An intense relationship will prompt you to devote all your energy to an attentive partner. The New Moon on the 4th will be ideal for meeting someone special.

If you’re already in a serious relationship, you and your amour can spend more time focused on fulfilling each other’s desires. By mid-month, you’ll have an opportunity to expand your horizons. Taking an advanced course, travelling abroad and publishing a piece of writing are among the possibilities. Your finances will improve on the 19th, when the Full Moon attracts a lucrative job or big salary. If you want admission to an exclusive organisation or university, apply during the second half of July, when your prospects will be strong. A job search will be fruitful in the final days of the month. This would also be a good time to run for public office.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC - 20 Jan]

An intimate partnership will be a profound source of satisfaction at the beginning of July. Getting engaged or married is a strong possibility when the New Moon rises on the 4th. If you’re already in a committed relationship, your amour could give you a beautiful token of their esteem. Be receptive to their tender loving care. It may be difficult to strike a healthy balance between your personal and professional lives during the first half of the month. It’s best to spend the lion’s share of your time with friends. Family may be a source of irritation in July; don’t let an erratic relative’s behaviour break your stride. The Full Moon on the 19th is perfect for pampering yourself. Take this opportunity to splash out on new clothes, a spa treatment or a luxury trip. Sign up for an advanced course of study as July turns to August. Become an expert in your desired field.

AQUARIUS [21 JAN - 19 FEB]

The beginning of July is ideal for starting a fitness regime. Taking regular exercise, sleeping well and following a nutritious diet will give you an attractive glow that is hard to resist.

The New Moon on the 4th could bring a job offer that is both financially and emotionally rewarding. Beware of betraying confidences and blurting out secretes during the first half of the month. It’s important to establish yourself as trustworthy during this sensitive time. A love affair will show exciting signs of renewed passion in the middle of the month. If you’re single, you could meet someone special at a movie, concert or play. Keep your eyes open for someone who has their eye on you.

Are you already in a serious relationship? Your amour could give you a beautiful token of their esteem. The Full Moon on the 19th will prompt you to spend more time on solitary pursuits. Reading, writing and resting will allow you to recharge your depleted spiritual batteries.

PISCES [20 Feb - 20 Mar]

Your creative juices will flow freely in early July. There’s never been a better time to launch a writing, design or music project than the 4th. That’s when the power of the New Moon will uplift and inspire you. If you’re looking for love, you will find it with someone who shares your artistic tastes.

Don’t let a prospective partner dictate the terms of this relationship. Being assertive from the early stages will create a healthy dynamic. An exhilarating work assignment will arrive in July. Take this opportunity to make a name in your desired field. This job may not pay very much, but it can serve as a launching pad to bigger and better opportunities. The Full Moon on the 19th will prompt you to be more involved in social pursuits. Spending more time with friends will give you the courage to take some risks. It’s time to pursue your dream job.

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Kids Club © Courtesy of the Marbella Club Hotel

© Julia Roder/ Design. Photography. Illustration. Webdesign

. THE GUIDE family

July Calendar

TOP THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN MARBELLA Below you’ll find our Top 7 recommended activities in Marbella for kids five to 12 years of age. Plus we can give you some exclusive offers on every one of these activities so you can enjoy them for a better price than the rest. You can find all of this at www.marbellafamilyfun.com

KIDS CLUB

Offering something truly unique for children aged four to 14 in a mini village hidden in the beautiful Marbella Club Hotel grounds. This kids club has all the ingredients for a playful, dynamic and stylish environment. i www.marbellaclub.com

GLOW FITNESS

Glow offers a range of fun and engaging swimming classes for kids. Little ones will love the heated swimming pool and you’ll be at ease knowing their eco-friendly cleaning system is based on salts and not aggressive chlorine chemicals. They even receive a nice diploma at the end of the programme to share their results with family and friends!. i www.glowclub.es

GALAXIA PLAY CENTRE

Want to stay out of the searing heat of summer but still have access to the outside? Marbella Play centre Galaxia offers both in a very large setting. There is literally something for everyone, including: 14 slides, kid-friendly mazes, tunnels, zip

lines, trampoline, a huge outdoor bouncy castle and even a racing car circuit! i www.galaxiaplay.com

WING CHUN MARBELLA

Highly recommended by families in the area and is considered to be one of the best schools to practice martial arts in Marbella. Students of Wing Chun learn how to deliver the correct amount of energy, while staying as relaxed as possible. It is one of the most effective forms of self defence that anyone – young or old – can benefit from. i www.uct-international.com

MARBELLA GYMNASTICS

Following the British Gymnastics Education programme, they teach children specific gymnastics moves using balance beams, springboards, vaults, floor mats, parallel bars, uneven bars, high bar, rings, pommel horse, while encouraging the development of physical, social, emotional and life skills. i www.marbellagymnasticsclub.com

COSTA WATERPARK

Experience a variety of water slides, trampolines, jumping cushions, climbing walls and many other challenging attractions, in all different shapes and sizes. The Marbella Aquapark covers a sea area of over 800 m2; located on three sunny locations in the bays of Marbella, Puerto Banús and Fuengirola. i www.costawaterpark.com

DANCE

This Costa del Sol dance studio is a part of the World Dance Sport Federation and offers young and old a chance to perform Latin and Ballroom style dance as well as improve flexibility, coordination and posture while learning about the incredible world of dance! i www.dancemarbella.com

For details on any of these activities, check out the complete guide at www.marbellafamilyfun.com

JULY 5-10 FERIA DE ESTEPONA Enjoy one of the Costa del Sol’s largest Ferias; Estepona will have parades and parties by day and fun fair rides and concerts by night.

JULY 7 LOS JUEVES AL CASCO Enjoy special discounts, live music, free tastings, traditional tapas and more when you go to the the Old Town in Marbella on Thursdays.

JULY 9 MARC ANTHONY International singing sensation Marc Anthony in concert in San Pedro. The first 1,000 tickets were sold in just 30 minutes. There are still a few left, so don’t miss out.

JULY 10 EUROCUP 2016 FINAL Spain are the two-time defending champions, having won the 2008 and 2012 editions. If you are wondering who will win this year, don’t forget to find a good screen to watch the Euro 2016 final this month.

JULY 15 PAGEANT CONTEST Pilar-Miraflores will be holding their annual festival on the 30th of July and are searching for Queens, Ladies, Miss Congeniality and even a ‘Mister’. So if you are between the ages of four & 25, find out how to enter at www.marbellafamilyfun.com JULY 18 SEAL Having sold over 30 million albums worldwide, with an outstanding voice, Seal returns to Marbella for the second time, performing at the Puente Romano Tennis Club. e

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Tailored Birthday Parties for the Most Important Family Members!

Memories to last a lifetime

Their biggest day, when they turn a whole year older, can be catered

for in full detail and personalised by the Marbella Club Kid’s Club to make it unforgettable for them… and for the grown-ups also!

A day to share and enjoy with your family and friends.

Our Kid’s Club is a place where all the ingredients have

been carefully chosen to form a playful and dynamic space that invites to explore, discover and experience. There will be something for everyone to enjoy and to be inspired by.

TAILORED PARTIES We cater for children ages 1 - 14 Dedicated Party Planner Choose your Special Theme Bespoke Cakes & Decor · Tasty Gourmet Options Staffed Catering Service · for grown-ups also!

FUN & GAMES Cooking Club Dance Studio · Pottery · Art Aroma Lab · Crazy Experiments Mini Disco And many more!

To book a celebration please contact Daniela Isler / disler@marbellaclub.com

Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602, Marbella, Málaga, Spain (34) 952 822 211 Fax (34) 952 82 88 84 marbellaclub.com

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BORA BORA BEACH CLUB MARBELLA Paseo Marítimo de San Pedro de Alcántara. Marbella T. 952 789 100 www.boraboramarbella.es

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