Spring Fever! March 2020

N º 247 -MARCH 2020

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

THE GAME PLASTIC ASTON CHANGERS OVERLOAD

hot FESTIVAL THE NETFLIX PANORAMA ART ON A POSTCARD FRIVOLITY PHENOMENON TURNS 50 TALENTED TAYLOR SWIFT MARTIN DBX SUV

ISSUE 247 • MARCH 2020

essential essential magazine® marbella

e

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b THE GOURMET

h THE LEISURE

z THE PRO

D THE SPOTLIGHT d THE STYLE n THE SPA L THE SOCIAL

COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

MARBELLA

LOS FLAMINGOS - BENAHAVÍS

2.480.000€

Tel. (+34) 951 615 372 | info@otero.com.es | www.otero.com.es Revista Otero Lux.indd 3

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5 BEDS / 6 BATH LUXURY VILLA WITH AMAZING SEA VIEWS

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OPENING 1ST OF MAY

VIDEO AVAILABLE iPhone IOS 11: open camera. Others download ‘QR Code Reader’ app

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 4

Built: 795 m²

Plot: 6,150 m²

Price: € 3,650,000

EL MADROÑAL Stunning villa with panoramic views Ref. ES10272

Bedrooms: 7

Built: 1,060 m² Plot: 10,100 m²

Price: € 3,699,000

BENAHAVÍS Imposing villa above the Golf Valley. Ref. ES8722

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 154 m²

Terrace: 80 m²

Price: € 1,295,000

GOLDEN MILE Modern beachside townhouse in Marbellamar Ref. ES11731

Bedrooms: 6

Built: 895 m²

Plot: 2,578 m²

Price: € 3,500,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Contemporary villa in Los Naranjos Golf. Ref. ES11312

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 154 m²

Terrace: 201m²

Price: € 1,295,000

SAN PEDRO PLAYA Refurbished duplex beachside penthouse. Ref. ES11147

Regulated by RICS

VIDEO AVAILABLE iPhone IOS 11: open camera. Others download ‘QR Code Reader’ app

Bedrooms: 7

Bathrooms: 6

Built: 761 m²

Terrace: 107 m²

Plot: 2,685 m²

Price: on application

GOLDEN MILE Recently built mansion with spectacular sea views in Marbella Hill Club. Ref. ES11322

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 731 m²

Plot: 1,600 m²

Price: € 2,350,000

GOLDEN MILE Family home next to Sierra Blanca. Ref. ES11472

Bedrooms: 2

Built: 173 m²

Terrace: 27 m²

Price: € 1,595,000

PUENTE ROMANO Penthouse opposite the Nobu reception. Ref. ES11474

SINCE 1970

Bedrooms: 5

Built: 382m²

Plot: 513 m²

Price: € 2,350,000

GOLDEN MILE Outstanding villa in Ancón Sierra. Ref. ES11504

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 363 m²

Plot: 801 m²

Price: € 1,690,000

MARBELLA EAST Brand-new villa with sea views in Río Real. Ref. ES11193

Offices on Marbella’s Golden Mile at Puente Romano and opposite the Marbella Club hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

Issue 247 • March 2020

S T A F F PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

DIGITAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ANDREA BLACKWELL andrea@essentialmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com

DESIGN & LAYOUT

INMA AURIOLES inma@essentialmagazine.com

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com

ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE

MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com

SALES SUPPORT

JAN DENDAUW jan@essentialmagazine.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

KEVIN HORN www.photographermarbella.com

THE FUN HAS JUST BEGUN! wherever you may be, stay with us online www.essentialmagazine.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com – Taylor Swift (2019)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

IAIN BLACKWELL, BELINDA BECKETT, ALEX CARUANA, MICHEL CRUZ, RIK FOXX, RUSSELL GRANT, KARETHE LINAAE, CHRIS MCCANN, TONY WHITNEY, MARK WILKINS

PRINTING DEPÓSITO LEGAL

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

www.essentialmagazine.com

Member of the Association of Spanish Periodical Publications

affiliated to: www.ultradesignglobal.com

@essentialmarbellamagazine

@essentialeditor

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, or for the copyright of materials used by them. © 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.

247Mh.indd 1

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Brexit and residence in Spain.

Limited time to lock in your rights.

If you plan to live in Spain in 2021 and beyond, you need to ensure you are ‘legally resident’ before the Brexit transition period ends on 31 December 2020. This will guarantee the same residence, pensions and healthcare rights as British expatriates received before Brexit.

There are currently no guarantees for UK nationals arriving from 2021, so act today if you can, rather than risk leaving it too late.

For personalised advice about your secure future in Spain, talk to your local Blevins Franks advisers.

Talk to the people who know NERJA, MALAGA, MIJAS, MARBELLA, NUEVA ANDALUCIA

900 670 047 Freephone

southernspain@blevinsfranks.com SAN PEDRO, ESTEPONA, GIBRALTAR, CADIZ, HUELVA, AYAMONTE

900 978 903 Freephone

southernspain@blevinsfranks.com

www.blevinsfranks.com

MARCH SEMINARS

Living in Spain post Brexit MARBELLA • CABOPINO • FUENGIROLA • NERJA

Contact us for details or book online

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

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

EL BOSQUE

Bed: 5-6 I Bath: 6-7 (+3 WC) I Plot: 3.000-3.102 m2 I Built: 868-958 m2 I www.elbosquevillas.es I From € 4.500.000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

LOS OLIVOS 5

MARBELLA’S LARGEST SELECTION OF TURN-KEY VILLAS IN PRIME AREAS www.solvilla.no

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

ALOHA 144

Bed: 7 I Bath: 6 I Plot: 1.379 m2 I Built: 512 m2 I www.losolivos5.es I € 3.500.000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

VILLA CORDOBA

Bed: 5+1 I Bath: 5+3 I Plot: 2.117 m2 I Built: 484 m2 I www.aloha144.es I € 4.200.000

Bed: 4+1 I Bath: 3+1 I Plot: 800 m2 I Built: 321 m2 I www.villacordoba.es I € 2.195.000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

CASA HEDERA

CERQUILLA 5

Bed: 5 I Bath: 5+3 I Plot: 1.046 m2 I Built: 678 m2 I www.casa-hedera.es I € 5.500.000

Bed: 4 I Bath: 4+1 I Plot: 1.290 m2 I Built: 305 m2 www.cerquilla5.es I € 3.250.000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

VILLA COBRE

Bed: 5 I Bath: 5+1 I Plot: 1.469 m2 I Built: 505 m2 I www.villacobre.es I € 4.995.000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

ALOHA 40

Exclusively by

PROPERTY DEVELOPERS & ADVISORS · MARBELLA · OFFICE: +34 952 765 060 MOBILE: +34 627 813 545 EMAIL: info@solvilla.no Hotel Marbella Club, oficina 10 29602 Marbella, Spain Blvd. Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n

Bed: 6 I Bath: 6+3 I Plot: 2.349 m2 I Built: 702 m2 I www.aloha40.es I € 6.295.000

You only live once,

Beachside Guadalmina: A stunning modern villa with sea views on a large plot close to the beach. Beautiful courtyard, separate gym and independent staff apartment. Stylish, contemporary design and luxurious finishes. 4 beds, 6 baths. Built 884 m², plot 3.070 m².

E&V ID: W-017A78. Price: 4.100.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Nueva Andalucía: Beautiful contemporary villa walking distance to the beach and Puerto Banús. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 416 m², plot 1.350 m².

E&V ID: W-02GHK5. Price: 2.495.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Frontline Golf El Paraíso: Newly built villa, unique and stylish, directly on the golf course. 4 beds, 3 baths. Built 400 m2, plot 1.076 m2.

E&V ID: W-02B5BZ. Price: 1.995.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Beachfront Los Monteros: Best priced luxury apartment in Los Monteros Playa! 3 beds, 4 baths. Living area 168 m², terrace 29 m².

E&V ID: W-02EDXA. Price: 995.500 €. Tel: 952 83 20 40.

Puente Romano: Beautiful apartment with sea views. High qualities and very stylish. 2 beds, 2 baths. Living area 131 m², terrace 31 m².

E&V ID: W-02FRFU. Price: 2.500.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Puerto Banús Shop: 952 85 98 60 · Golden Mile Shop: 952 86 84 06 www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella

we will show you where! ,.

Cascada de Camoján: An impressive grand villa with breathtaking, panoramic sea and mountain views. Very private, spectacular driveway, majestic entrance, separate guest apartment. Gym, cinema and games room. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 948 m², plot 1.900 m².

E&V ID: W-02HM8S. Price: 3.900.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Nueva Andalucía: Rare opportunity in gated community walking distance to the beach. 4 beds, 5 baths. Built 797 m², plot 1.440 m².

E&V ID: W-02FAMZ. Price: 2.295.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Beachside Marbesa: Exceptionally chic and stylish villa in a trendy beach resort. 4 beds, 5 baths. Built 581 m², plot 1.265 m².

E&V ID: W-02IATO. Price: 3.750.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 55 80.

Beachfront Cabopino: Rare opportunity! Spectacular large penthouse next to the Marina. 4 beds, 4 baths. Living area 310 m², terrace 171 m².

E&V ID: W-02HNJU. Price: 1.490.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 55 80.

Sierra Blanca: Fantastically priced! Immaculate apartment. Gym, indoor pool, sauna.3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 150 m², terrace 180 m².

E&V ID: W-02I9AF. Price: 675.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

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

7

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9lions_Print_Ad_essential_230X300mm_DoubleSpread_FA2_Outlines.indd 1

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Contemporary elegance M O D E R N V I L L A W I T H S P E C TA C U L A R S E A V I E W S

Beds 5 Bath 4

Built 494 m2 Plot 1.000 m2

Price: 2.695.000 € Ref: DM4054

Stunning home in Marbella’s Golden Mile, set within the prestigious residential area of Nagüeles next to Sierra Blanca and only 2 km from Marbella centre. Perfect location for family life with easy access to schools, beaches, shopping and amenities.

The villa is distributed in three levels and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views. Open plan layout on ground floor with spacious lounge and kitchen leading out to a beautiful chill-out area with covered terrace, infinity swimming pool and manicured garden.

The top floor features the master suite and a guest bedroom with large terraces and panoramic views, whilst the basement offers additional guest accommodation with natural light, bathroom, cinema room and 2-car garage.

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

Over 512 offices in 60 territories

Panoramic viewpoint B R A N D N E W H O M E W I T H PA N O R A M I C V I E W S I N G AT E D C O M M U N I T Y

Beds 5 Bath 5

Built 920 m2 Plot 6.371 m2

Price: 4.850.000 € Ref: DM4479

Contemporary villa on an extensive plot surrounded by nature in El Madroñal, a sought-after gated residential area in the hills above Marbella with 24h security and within a few minutes’ drive to Puerto Banús.

Fine materials and great attention to detail are found throughout the house, where the concept of al-fresco entertaining has been explored by the use of extensive terraces, immaculate manicured lawns and an elegant infinity swimming pool.

Distributed over three levels, the villa offers bedrooms in all floors for added comfort, open plan kitchen, and a spa area on the lower level with direct access to the garden featuring a gymnasium, hammam and sauna.

Marbella Av. Cánovas del Castillo, 4 - Tel. 952 765 138

Nueva Andalucía Av. del Prado, Urb. Fuente Aloha - Tel. 952 908 415

info@dmproperties.com DMproperties.com

Discretion

Knowledge

Experience

Integrity

Unique opportunity to own a home within the fabulous ďŹ ve-star hotel of Puente Romano with use of all of the hotel facilities, surrounded by amazing gardens and the best amenities Marbella has to oer.

This is a four bedroom home, but can easily be used as a 3 bedroom and a one bedroom unit if required.

Recently refurbished to the highest standards, this special property can also generate a yearly income or be used as a private residence.

Built 212 m 2 Terrace 43 m2

We specialise in luxury sales and rentals in and around Marbella

www.callumswanrealty.com

Discretion

Knowledge

Experience

Integrity

Unique opportunity to own a home within the fabulous five-star hotel of Puente Romano with use of all of the hotel facilities, surrounded by amazing gardens and the best amenities Marbella has to offer. This is a four bedroom home, but can easily be used as a 3 bedroom and a one bedroom unit if required. Recently refurbished to the highest standards, this special property can also generate a yearly income or be used as a private residence.

Plot 1576 m 2 Built 800 m2

We specialise in luxury sales and rentals in and around Marbella Urb. Las Torres del Marbella Club, Local nº1 Blvd Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe 29602, Marbella, Málaga

Tel. (+34) 952 81 06 08 info@callumswan.com

5 EXTRAORDINARY VILLAS FOR SALE Prices from €2,295,000

Co-exclusive

info@anamayavillas.com (+34) 951 319 994

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

For more information please visit: www.anamayavillas.com

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social media updated daily with awesome content that will make you happy! :)

@essentialmarbellamagazine

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This award-winning villa is Marbella’s first avant-garde luxury house designed and built under Passive House Regulations and Standards. Just five minutes from the coast and ten minutes from Marbella, this is a villa that, quite simply, has it all.

Plot: 3.550 m2

Built size: 1.323 m2

A great home should improve your quality of life, probably more than any other single factor.

Michael Rodziewicz, CEO Bright

PRICE ON APPLICATION (+34) 648 981 111 info@villa-alcuzcuz.com villa-alcuzcuz.com

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Bringing the outside inside Vista Lago Residences comprises 18 design-led villas in one of the most perfect locations in the world. Overlooking a lake and the Mediterranean Sea beyond, with views of the Rock of Gibraltar and Africa - all without moving from the sofa.

INFO & RESERVATIONS: (+34) 648 981 111 info@vistalago.es vistalago.es

BRI LLIANT IDEAS FOR BET T ER LIVING w w w.by- bright .com

D

contents the spotlight

Top Festivals around the World 42

The Hotel Barceló Renacimiento in Sevilla 50

the spa 118 Top Videos on Beauty 119 Body Shimmers

Art on a Postcard 52

122 Hypertension

Plastics Overload 58

124 Health Matters

William Morris and Charles Rennie Mackintosh 64

Panorama Celebrates 50 Years in Marbella 66

The Aston Martin DBX SUV 72

The Year of Taylor Swift 76

Florence Pugh Takes Hollywood 78

the trend Cinema 80 The Netflix Phenomenon 82 The Game Changers Documentary on Vegan Athletes 84 Music News 86 Top Reads 88 Vintage Gadgets 90 What’s Cool 92

the style A Luxurious Villa in La Quinta 98 Auxiliary Furniture 106 Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2020 Collection 108 Jewellery Boxes with Flair 114

the social 126 The Vibe 132 Animal Love

the pro 136 Janus Nielsen of Anytech365 138 Anamaya Villas 140 Enterprise 146 Brexit: What to Expect 147 The Future of Investment with BinckBank and Saxo Bank 148 100% Green Energy from Mariposa Energía

the gourmet 152 Magna Cafe 154 Savor 156 Gourmet Bytes 158 Chef Diego del Río of Boho Club 160 Juzcar’s Royal Tin Factory Winery

the guide 162 Listings 168 Stars for March

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D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

S

pring is in the air, bringing longer days, more sunshine and a riot of colour coming our way. The March is full of life too with something for everyone to like in these pages.

We get ready to party at some of the world’s top festivals, hop aboard Aston Martin’s astounding new DBX SUV, and check in to Sevilla’s outstanding Barceló Hotel.

In entertainment, we bring you The Netflix Phenomenon and profiles on Taylor Swift and Florence Pugh. We also report on the thought-provoking documentary, The Game Changers.

For culture, don’t miss our preview of this month’s Art on a Postcard and retrospective on Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Arts & Crafts Movement.

Locally, we review the stalwart success of top local real estate agency Panorama, which turns 50 this month. We talk with Janus Nielsen, the boss of high-flying Anytech365 which is also the principal sponsor of the Marbella Tennis Open. Binck Bank Marbella’s Director, Kaspar Huijsman, informs us about their merger with Saxo Bank, and Martin Tye presents his new green energy company, Mariposa Energia.

Finally, join us in savouring gastronomic delicacies at Savor, magnificent morsels at Magna Café, and bodacious creations at Boho Club, courtesy of Diego del Río.

SPRING IS NATURE’S WAY OF SAYING ‘LET’S PARTY!’ ROBIN WILLIAMS

NEW OFFICE OPENED IN THE HEART OF MARBELLA

An ambassador of French Art de Vivre and a leading player in the high-end real estate market with offices in

over 15 countries, BARNES is taking up residence on the Costa del Sol to assist its clients with all of their sale, acquisition and rental projects. BARNES also offers an array of bespoke services ranging from art advisory to investment in vineyards and yacht rental.

BARNES MARBELLA

Bulevar Principe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, La Poveda, local 4, 29602 Marbella +34 603 316 972 marbella@barnes-international.com www.barnes-international.com

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e the spotlight CULTURE HISTORY PEOPLE MOTORING TECHNOLOGY ENTERTAINMENT

42 50 52 58 64 66 72 76 78

Top Festivals around the World The Hotel Barcelรณ Renacimiento in Sevilla Art on a Postcard Plastics Overload William Morris and Charles Rennie Mackintosh Panorama Celebrates 50 Years in Marbella The Aston Martin DBX SUV The Year of Taylor Swift Florence Pugh Takes Hollywood

MARBELLA IS READY AND WAITING FOR THE SUMMER, BUT IN THE MEANTIME, SPRING HAS SPRUNG! WE CHECK OUT TOP FESTIVALS ACROSS THE GLOBE, CHECK IN TO THE HOTEL BARCELร RENACIMIENTO IN SEVILLA, TAKE YOU TO THE FIRST EVER AUCTION OF POSTCARD-SIZED ART WORKS, AND TAP INTO THE PLASTICS POLLUTION PROBLEM. WE ALSO TAKE A SEAT IN THE NEW ASTON MARTIN DBX SUV AND FIND OUT WHAT MAKES OUR COVERGIRL, TAYLOR SWIFT, TICK!

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D THE SPOTLIGHT travel

SPRING CARNIVALS

AND HOLI-DAYS

The start of the spring is a popular time for festivals, not just in Europe, but around the globe. Whatever you have planned, make sure you join in at least one of these festive events, where you can learn all about the culture of a place.

WORDS ALEXANDRA CARUANA PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK

42 / MARCH 2020 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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JUST CELEBRATED

RIO DE JANEIRO CARNIVAL BRAZIL (21 – 28 FEBRUARY) Known as the biggest of all festivals, Rio Carnival is a week-long event that consists of lots of beautiful dancing which encourages participants to dress up, enjoy the music and have fun! The purpose of Carnival is for the two million people who participate every year to indulge before Lent. People work hard in the lead-up to practice elaborate dance routines to perform throughout the week and choose the perfect outfits to accompany them. In this festival, freedom of expression is important, so anything goes here, and outfits range from the extravagant to skimpy.

The purpose-built Sambadrome, which dates back to 1983, is where most of the festivities take place and consists of a large parade area across a 570m strip along with several stadiums. Opening night

occurs on a Friday, when the crowning of King Momo takes place. A Latin American character known as the King of Carnivals, King Momo will start dancing after becoming crowned, to which the crowd will erupt in dance around him, marking the start of the festival. This will kick start the parade, featuring King Momo dancing at the front, with impressive carriages following him and many different dancers with their beautiful, colourful costumes, which usually entail fancy headwear displaying jewels and feathers. Samba is a lively dance that has African influence, making it very rhythmic with accompanying theme music. There are different types of samba, including solo samba, couple samba which is more intimate, reggae samba which is accompanied with

drums, samba rock which tends to be played throughout the nightclubs, and much more.

This is the most prevalent dance here, as it originated in Brazil so features heavily throughout the parade.

This merriment continues throughout the week, with more parades that are made up of samba schools competing for the honour of being a part of the final parade. Each school will have a different theme for their routine, with jungle, fantasy or magic being examples of some of the most popular contenders.

Those unable to get tickets for the events within the Sambadrome will not be at a loss for what to do, as they can still join in the festivities within the street parties known as Blocos, filled with people dancing to great music, celebrating and having a good time.

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM MARCH 2020 / 43

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MARDI GRAS NEW ORLEANS (25 FEBRUARY) The Mardi Gras celebrations are similar to those in Brazil. The French phrase, when translated into English means Fat Tuesday, which we would refer to here as Shrove Tuesday. It is the time before Lent when everyone uses up their rich ingredients prior to the commencement of fasting. It is traditionally a French festival (in Paris known as Paris Carnival), but was introduced to New Orleans for the first time in 1699 by French explorers who held a small celebration and named the spot they had arrived at on the eve of the festive holiday, Pointe Du Mardi Gras. Costumes were later introduced by a group of students in 1827, who had observed the traditions in France and took to dancing in the streets in fun attire, encouraging others to join in the festivities. The first parade was ten years later, following on from the students’ influence, which continues in New Orleans to this day.

A Christian tradition, Mardi Gras Festival, like other festivals taking place during this time of the year, was the welcoming of the springtime and is also celebrated in other highly populated Christian countries worldwide. It is celebrated with street parties and a parade, and would not be complete without a royal king. Each Mardi Gras parade is held in King Rex’s honour, whose royal colours of purple, gold and green have become the traditional colours of the Festival. King Rex is known for being a very generous king, who celebrates with ‘throws’, gifts that are thrown throughout the procession such as soft toys, colourful beads, and other such treats, which onlookers eagerly grab.

King cakes are a big tradition of the Mardi Gras Festival, made in the Mardi Gras traditional colours.

In previous years these were fairly basic ring cakes made with modest decoration. Nowadays however,

bakeries go all out, creating them with frosting and in different shapes. The cakes are sculpted with a small plastic baby figure inside. The person who receives the slice with the baby is considered to have been bestowed with luck and is destined to bring the next Mardi Gras cake or host the next party for the following year.

Masks are another big part of Mardi Gras, with those participating on floats having to wear them by law. The idea behind the masks is that people are free to be whoever they want and enjoy the festivities without having to worry about class restraints within society, which adds to the thrill of the day. All those attending the celebrations are encouraged to wear them, and they are big and bold to hide the person’s identity.

Mardi Gras is a day full of secrecy and was previously used as an opportunity to settle scores.

Krewes would be formed, which were made up of organisations from the higher classes within society at the time, such as kings, dukes, knights and captains alike. Entry to these krewes was by invitation only and would cause a lot of rivalry. Those who were treated as slaves and in the lower classes within society were excluded, and they had to find their own way to celebrate Mardi Gras. Today, the participation of Mardi Gras Indians is a tradition that is kept, as African American members of society come together to participate in the parade, to remember the times when they were not included. While the clandestine element remains for today’s celebrations, inclusion is respected by the wearing of masks, where everyone within society can participate in the festivities.

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COMING UP

HOLI FESTIVAL INDIA (10 MARCH) On 10 March, go big or go home with the Holi Festival in India, which takes place throughout the country.

This festival focuses on the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated to drive away a demoness who goes by the name of Holika. Lord Vishnu, the Hindu God of preservation has a big part to play in this, as he assisted in the destruction of the demoness.

Folk tales of Lord Krishna, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, tell of how the prankster liked to play tricks on the girls in the village by soaking them with water and colourful powder. Others rely on the story that Lord Krishna, who was depicted with dark blue skin, did not like the colour of his girlfriend, Radha’s fair skin. On telling his mother, she suggested he smear her with paint so that it was a different colour.

Following on from these stories, people like to play with paints and water on Holi Day, throwing a mix of both at friends, family, and even strangers. During the celebrations, you will find the drink of choice to be bhang, an intoxicating lassi drink containing cannabis. This provides a relaxed atmosphere, where anyone is fair game in this vibrant festival, so be sure to have your water guns at the ready!

Holi Festival is the celebration of the start of springtime, where the Indian population gives thanks for harvest season. After a day of celebrating with water and colour fights and general frivolities, large bonfires are lit in the evening in order to burn the demoness. People dance around these fires, with some even walking on the coals, and the party continues well into the night.

The main tip for the Holi festival is to wear clothes that you do not mind ruining. With all the colours and water, it is unlikely they will make it past the celebrations, so ensure you leave all valuables safely in the hotel. Also be sure to stick in a big group, as the experience can be overwhelming, especially as tourists are the prime targets in this festival. Women who have attended have spoken of their experiences, detailing how everyone will want to hug and splash you, and personal space is not respected, so be aware of this before heading out. For those a little wary of big crowds, perhaps consider staying somewhere

with a terrace nearby, where you can safely enjoy the festivities from a height. Apart from that, ensure you have fun. All people are equal during the festival of colours, with features such as race and age being put aside, and everyone blending together as one in an array of beautiful colours.

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ST PADDY’S DAY IRELAND (17 MARCH) This festival is not contained to just Ireland, but takes place all over the world, where many come together to remember St Patrick, known as the patron saint of Ireland. He was a Christian Bishop recognised for his great missionary work in the fifth century. It is believed that he was born in England but was captured by Irish pirates as a 16-year-old teenager. This time in captivity was crucial in assisting with the development of his spirituality and his faith in God. After six years, he heard a voice which told him he would be able to return home, and he managed to escape from his captors. Once home, he continued to dedicate his life to prayer and Christianity.

There are several legends about the great Patrick, who was known to use a shamrock as a symbol of the holy trinity to show there were three beings in one: the father, the son and the holy spirit. One of the main fables was that of Patrick banishing snakes. Historical records reveal that snakes never existed in Ireland at this time. Extensive research has been carried out, with fossils showing no evidence of the reptile.

In celebrations today, everyone wears green to mark the remembrance of Saint Patrick.

This originated from his love of the shamrock which was also green. As this celebration spread all over the world, so did the importance of wearing something green. Most will then

head out in their greenery to the pub to enjoy a couple of beers with friends and celebrate. For those religious folk in Ireland, St Patrick’s Day consists in starting off the day by heading to mass, followed by a wholesome roast dinner at home with the family.

This popular festival has spread to many countries, but it is especially popular in the United States, where they held their first St Patricks Day parade in 1766. The Americans also celebrate by drinking green beer in keeping with the usual tradition of the day. This is simply made by adding green food colouring to the normal tipple.

Unknown to many is that the festivities didn’t used to end there for the Irish. The day following St Patrick’s day was previously known as Sheelah’s Day, falling on 18 March.

Most would celebrate long into the night the start of Sheelah’s Day. There are many theories as to who Sheelah actually was. Some believe it was St Patrick’s wife, while others think it may have been his mother. On this day, shamrocks would be worn on the clothing of the Irish.

These would be thrown into the last glass of whisky at the end of the night, which was known as the drowning of the shamrock. These days, Sheelah’s Day is no longer officially celebrated in Ireland resulting in its origin having been long forgotten!

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LAS FALLAS VALENCIA (14-19 MARCH) Just a short taxi ride from its airport, Valencia is a beautiful city full of delicious Spanish cuisine and rich in culture. At this time of year, the elements can take you by surprise, where one moment you can be sitting in the fabulous sunshine with a refreshing sangria thinking the summer is well on its way, and the next, running for shelter when the skies open up with a downpour. It will definitely keep you on your toes, so be sure to pack for all types of weather scenarios.

Las Fallas Festival is a Valencian tradition that started in the second half of the 18th century by carpenters who would burn all the old wood that was used to hold lights during the dark, winter months.

While celebrations start officially on the 1 March, with decorations and displays being erected at the start of the month, the festivities takes place a little later from

14 – 19 March. The event on the 19 March signifies the start of the Spring, as it symbolises the burning of the wood that was used to light fires to give way to the lighter months of the Spring. This old wood was used to create ninots, larger than life mannequins which have evolved over the years. Initially constructed of wood and straw with heads of wax, these would burn quickly. In the 1950s, it was popular for them to be made with paper mache, quite a difference to today’s plastic polyester equivalents, which appear more realistic and true to life. These are moulded to look like characters in today’s world, with political leaders such as Trump and Putin often featured. Costumes are worn by individuals who partake in several parades over the course of the festival, dancing through the streets of Valencia, making it a very comical spectacle. During this time, fireworks,

referred to as mascletàs, are fired through the skies every afternoon at 14:00 in front of the city council offices, to ensure that everyone has finished hibernating and is ready to partake in the festivities. Be sure to get a good spot here a little earlier to witness the firework display as well as the ninots which will be parading by a little later on. Finally, a winning ninot is chosen to join its pre-successors in the Las Fallas Museum, a fate far greater than the others, which are all set on fire at the stroke of midnight.

NYEPI DAY BALI (25 MARCH)

There is only one festival to avoid during this month, and that is Nyepi Day in Bali on 25 March. This is a day of silence for all the inhabitants, where there tends to be no moving around, so no site-seeing, taxis, flights nor electricity. People take the day to reflect and some even fast. It’s not all quiet this time of year though, as this is the Indonesian New Year celebration and follows on from Melasti processions which take place a few days earlier, featuring paper mache dragons that parade through the streets. e

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D THE SPOTLIGHT hotel

THE HOTEL

BARCELÓ RENACIMIENTO IN SEVILLA

JEWEL IN THE ANCIENT CITY’S CROWN Last year, one of Andalusía’s most beautiful cities, Sevilla, broke its own tourism record, with over three million tourists making their way to the old city centre to view sites like the Real Alcázar de Sevilla or the Giralda. As a city which has played host to everything from the Expo to the Game of Thrones series, Sevilla also has excellent hotels that boast a blend of location, views, and comfort – and one of the very best, is five-star sensation, the Barceló Renacimiento. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE HOTEL BARCELÓ RENACIMIENTO SEVILLA

T

he Renacimiento boasts an ultra-modern design based on New York’s Guggenheim Museum. It comprises three circular buildings that pay homage to Christopher Columbus’ three ships: the Niña, Pinta and Santa María. The hotel is steps away from the glistening Guadalquivir river, around 2.5km far from the AVE train station, and very close to Alameda de Hércules – sometimes called ‘a city within a city’ because of its plethora of bars, restaurants, and night clubs. The Alameda is home to the oldest

public garden in Europe and is also the largest plaza (square) in Sevilla – a lovely place for an evening stroll after a lively dinner with friends. If you are travelling with kids to Isla Mágica (a kids’ theme and water park featuring everything from super-fast water slides to roller coaster rides), know that the hotel is within walking distance from the park.

The Renacimiento – winner of the Best MICE Hotel in Spain prize at the World Travel Awards – is a sizeable, comfortable resort – one with

295 spacious, well-lit rooms. Its interiors have recently been renovated, so rooms are modern and colourful, bearing details such as printed murals, designer lighting, and wooden flooring.

Sizes range from the Deluxe Room (measuring 40m2) to the Presidential Suite – which is just about as luxurious as you can imagine. There are also spaces that are perfect for families, such as the Family Deluxe Suite – measuring 50m2 containing a Master bedroom and a large living room with a pull-out sofa.

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The Hotel is as focused on business as it is on pleasure. It has no less than 5000m2 of space for events and conferences, distributed into 25 separate areas (with a total capacity of 1,200 persons). These areas cater well to the human need for connection with nature, since they are surrounded by 10,000m2 of gardens which have been pruned and preened to perfection.

Families and businesspersons alike gather at the Restaurante Colón – where a hearty American buffet service gives tourists the energising start they need to check out all the city sites. If you have special dietary needs, the buffet has many foods catered to specific conditions – including glutenfree and low-calorie options for those wishing to stay light on their feet. A second restaurant – Gastrobar La Santa María – has a wide array

of tapas and snacks – including freshly made croquettes, burgers and chips – perfect with a chilled glass of beer. This venue has a lovely al fresco dining area, which is perfect to soak in the rays in the spring and summer, and even on warmer winter days.

If you are craving a juicy steak, then the Hotel’s Barbecue Grill Restaurant & Lounge will be the ideal spot to rest and recuperate after a day’s sightseeing. This venue has a menu and a wide range of à la carte selections. The entrées and sides are great as well, and include a croqueta medley (featuring hake, ham, and mushrooms), quesadillas, salads, nachos with fresh guacamole, and more. Down your meal with a bottle of Rueda or Ribera del Duero, or choose from a select list of wines by the glass.

Sevilla is a city of immense beauty; one where the eye encounters aesthetically pleasing structures effortlessly. It is also a city for fun, of course; with as many clubs and restaurants as places for the whole family to bond, such as Isla Mágica. The Hotel Renacimiento offers luxury resort living close to these attractions, with a beautiful heated indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and a lively children’s pool in which to simply ‘be’ with your loved ones between your many adventures and escapades. Fitness buffs take note – you will find plenty of opportunity to give yourself a fabulous workout at the gym and sauna. After all, all holidays should involve a bit of renewal as much as they do discovery.

i www.barcelo.com

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D THE SPOTLIGHT postcards

Penny Slinger

[LOT 126]

Even in Swinging Sixties London she raised eyebrows with her mystic, sexual photo collages – made from nude ‘selfies’ taken on the photocopier at Portsmouth College of Art where she taught.

This British-born American uses her body as a muse to explore the nature of self, femininity, eroticism and Tantric themes in her art and writing. Her first book, 50% The Visible Woman, inspired Rolling Stone magazine to write in 1971: ‘It will become as important on your bookshelf as Sgt. Pepper is on your record rack.’ Now 72 and living in LA, she uses selfie art to confront ageism, which she considers the next bastion of feminism.

Lot 126: How to Use the Cosmos-Feminine Mystique, Penny Slinger (photo collage on paper)

hival ls (paint on arc ul, Guerrilla Gir Lot: 238: Resentf print on card) and illa Girls (paint & Power, Guerr Lot 239: Wealth archival print on card) photo collage on

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POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE

Strike a blow for girl power this International Women’s Day by joining in the bidding war at the first all-female charity auction of postcard-sized art. You could bag yourself a mini masterpiece, writes Belinda Beckett.

T

hey are masterstrokes in miniature, created by giants of feminist art whose work has transformed gender stereotypes and had an impact around the world. Art on a Postcard is marking IWD on March 8 with its first auction of postcardsized original artworks by outstanding female artists and bidding is online so everyone can enter.

Feminist trailblazers like Caroline Coon and anarchists like the Guerrilla Girls who have taken the fight for equality and diversity into the art world’s whitemale-dominated mean streets are among more than 125 artists who have produced signed works for the auction: linocuts, watercolours, stencils, acrylics and photo collages, on paper and card – tiny treasures running the gamut of genres from abstract expressionism to surrealism. Lots can be viewed now until close of bidding on March 11 – and with a reserve price of just £50 across the board, it’s worth a flutter.

Art on a Postcard started in 2014 as a one-off secret auction to make art affordable to a wider audience and raise money for the Hepatitis C Trust. Buyers only knew the names of participating artists but not which pieces were theirs. The bids rolled in and the idea snowballed.

In 2016 Damien Hirst was a contributor but his postcards arrived so late they had

to be mixed in with other substandard contributions that hadn’t made the cut “and someone ended up buying a stick pig by an unknown artist for £2K,” says director Gemma Peppé.

It works both ways. When Marina Abramovic contributed three pieces, speculators were sure they knew exactly which were hers. “Bids shot through the roof but pretty much everybody got it wrong and they went for a real bargain – literally only a few hundred pounds,” continues Peppé. “But for IWD we wanted to shout about all the outstanding women taking part and show off their wonderful work, so this time you will know who you are bidding on.”

You still have to know your artists and the price their work fetches so don’t get too carried away – £7k is the record sale price!

Art on a Postcard’s auctions have raised over three quarter of a million pounds towards eliminating hepatitis C in British women’s prisons by 2025. And artists think it’s a great idea.

“I consider the creation of all art to be the artist sending a postcard from the wilder shores they visit, back to the rest of the world,” says Penny Slinger, who has contributed two photo collages. “Art is definitely a postcard from the edge.” i The auction will take place on Paddle8.com from February 27 to March 11.

Check out our preview, then view them all at artonapostcard.com

The G uerilla G irls

[LOT 238/239]

They paint anonymous ly in shaggy gorilla ma sks, sign their work after dead female artists (e.g. Frida Kahlo) and first hit New York in 1985, plastering the city’s mu seums with provocative posters. ‘Do women have to be nak ed to get into the Met Museum?’ wa s one headliner protes ting that ‘Less than 5% of artists in the Modern Art sections are women but 85% of the nudes are fem ale’. Once 30-strong, the se masked crusaders are a smalle r crew these days but still active and in big demand for com missions and exhibition s. The Whitney Museum of American Art, Tate London and the New York MOMA own sizeable col lections and their cam paigns are studied in history of art classes.

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Lot 83: Keys Latticework , and Dugger (gicléMedina hahnemühle e on pearl)

LOT 1

Medina Dugger

[LOT 83]

This young Texan art photographer is busy smashing western stereotypes of African culture with her exuberant photo collages of life in Lagos, Nigeria. She first turned heads with Enshroud, depicting the hijab as never seen before – not as a dark symbol of male oppression but a colourful fashion statement. “I photographed the models twirling and jumping to recreate moments I’d witnessed in the city which were often incongruent with my previously held notions of women in hijab,” she says. She has been covered by everyone from Vogue and the Smithsonian to National Geographic and she’s winning awards.

Lot 16: Miniature Sketch for Painting, Rugged Defe Play, Caroline Coon (pencil nce & watercolour on paper) �

Caroline Coon

[LOT 16]

The Tate famously banned her Mr Olympia painting in 1995 because the black model had an erect penis. Known for her large-scale works and gender neutral figures challenging sexual stereotypes, London’s top galleries love this 74-year-old British artist, writer and lifelong activist who ran away from home to seek her fortune in 1960s London. She also found time to make a soft-porn film, campaign for legalised prostitution, manage (briefly) punk rock band The Clash and design album covers for The Police. Her ongoing Arena Series of paintings alludes to the beauty of sport for all genders.

Lot 1: Swimm

ing in the Ra

in, Anita Klein

(linocut)

A nit a Klein

[LOT 1]

‘Ravel said he wanted his music to be complex, but not complicated. Anita Klein might say the same of her art,’ wrote the art critic John Russell.

Born in Sydney, based in London and Italy, her work is a celebration of her own everyday life bath-time with splashing children and a glass of wine waiting, ironing with the TV on in the background… Initially dismissed by critics as domestic daubs, her tender scenes struck a chord and, at 60, she has had almost as many one-woman shows. Arts Council England and the British Museum are two of her many collectors.

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eliner, Lot 127: Blue Ey(acrylic Genieve Figgis on paper)

LOT 1

Genieve Figgis

[LOT 127]

Known for her vibrant colours and ghoulish imagery, this Irish artist made her big breakthrough publishing her work on Twitter.

Using acrylics slathered heavily on canvas, she plays with the culture of upper class luxury portrayed by artists like Velázquez and Goya and overlays classic concepts of beauty and perfection with dark humour. Eyes drip down eroding cheeks, smiles take on macabre qualities and faces melt like images in a book left out in the rain. Her work is strongly influenced by her Catholic upbringing and the County Wicklow countryside of her home.

Harmony Hammond

[LOT 135]

A trailblazing feminist artist from Illinois who cofounded New York’s first women’s gallery in 1972, she used lesbian themes in her art at a time when it was career suicide – and in ways no one had seen before. She works with found and recycled materials – old clothes or bits of knitting ripped up and pasted on sculptures or canvas – paper layered with paint and punctured with grommets (body orifices), to explore feminist themes. At 76, this lifelong activist, curator and doyenne of LGBTQ art has 30 solo exhibitions and Fellowships from the Rockefeller and Guggenheim foundations to her credit as well as a place in many collections.

Lot 8: R

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Lot 135: T Grommet iny Bleeding Hammon ype, Harmony monotyp d (mixed media e)

Kat herine Bernhardt

[LOT 8]

This Missouri artist first shot to fame for her ‘supermodel’ paintings in the mid-Noughties – grotesque portraits based on images from high fashion magazines with Max Factor raccoon eyes, emaciated limbs and swollen red pouts. She’s also in demand for her paintings of basketballs, cell phones, hamburgers, fruit and other emblems of today’s consumer society, floating in bright fields of abstract colour. Now based in Brooklyn, she’s involved in numerous collaborations with the art and fashion industries. e

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D THE SPOTLIGHT plastic

WHAT PLASTICS DO HUMANS USE IN DAILY LIFE?

The range of plastics used on a daily basis include PET (waterbottles, tupperware, etc), HDPE (used in thicker bottles for items such as shampoo or ice-cream), LDPE (used in bags and packaging film), PS (for cutlery and cups) and EPS (found in protective packaging and cups for hot beverages). As it stands, we have recycled only nine per cent of all the plastic we have produced – a statistic that is indicative of the major changes we need to make.

HOW HUMAN BEINGS CREATED THE PLASTIC POLLUTION PROBLEM? Since the 1950s, human beings have produced over 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic – around 60 per cent of which has ended up in landfills or in our oceans. In this time, the rate of plastic production has grown faster than that of any other material and the vast majority of it is produced from non-renewable resources such as oil and coal. If production rates continue at current levels, by 2050, around 20 per cent of the world’s consumption of oil will be attributed to plastics.

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HOW CAN WE SOLVE THE

WORLD’S PLASTIC WASTE PROBLEM? Pollution has become one of the world’s most pressing environmental crises, with around 13 million tonnes of plastic waste making its way into our oceans from coastal countries every year – according to Pew Research. It is hard to imagine that something so devastating is so relatively new. Plastics are just over 100 years old and production of this material only began on a large scale after World War II, revolutionising life as we know it with new ways to store medication, lighten vehicles, and manufacture everything from materials for space travel to baby’s incubators. They were created to extend and enhance human life but, as noted

by National Geographic, around 40 per cent of all plastics produced are used only once, then thrown away – and the waste can take up to 400 years to break down. To put it simply, our Earth and oceans do not have room to keep up with the amount of plastic items we create, use, and dump.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

HOW DO PLASTICS HARM MARINE LIFE? The United Nations reports that around 800 species across the globe are affected by marine waste, and 80 per cent of this waste is made from plastic. Fish, sea turtles, marine mammals and more can swallow plastic debris or become entangled in it, resulting in suffocation and drowning. Pew Research states that around half of the world’s sea turtles have swallowed plastic. Some starve to death because of it, since the waste in their system makes them feel full. Plastic pollution is so severe that it affects the reproductive patterns of some sea animals and young birds, fish, and other animals are most vulnerable – since they are less capable of differentiating between food and plastic.

Some animals are so intelligent they know that plastics are not to be ingested. These include dolphins, who unfortunately are not safe from the effects of pollution – since they consume prey whose bellies are filled with the stuff. The state of our oceans is hard to believe, and best envisaged by viewing photographs from the intrepid sea warriors who have captured images of everything from fish with rubber bands around their heads to animals swimming with plastic bags attached to their fins. If we do nothing about the state of our oceans, it is predicted that the volume of plastic in our oceans will outweigh sea life by the year 2050.

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PLASTIC ON THE EARTH Plastics are affecting the health and wellbeing of earth creatures as well. In countries like the Philippines and India, there are large ‘unofficial landfills’ extending over acres and rising several metres high. India alone generates 25,940 tonnes of plastic waste daily – a similar weight to that of 86 Boeing 747 Jets! In areas such as the Philippines’ Payatas dumpsite (closed, thankfully, in 2017), landslides of garbage have killed hundreds of scavengers. Interestingly, much of the waste located in these dumps did not originate in the Philippines. Between 2013 and 2014, for instance, over 100 containers of waste were shipped from Canada to the Philippines, wrongly declared as ‘plastics to be recycled’.

THE MICROPLASTIC INVASION BPA (bisphenol A) – an industrial chemical found in commonly used containers and water bottles – can seep into food or beverages, and studies have shown it can have a host of possible health effects. Research has linked even low-dose exposure to BPA with cardiovascular problems, brain issues in infants and children, and behavioural problems in children. Health professionals recommend replacing plastics with alternatives like glass, porcelain, or stainless steel.

Because fish ingest microplastics, BPA and other chemicals can find their way into our systems. It’s even in the air we breathe. The issue therefore goes much further than simply replacing our tupperware set.

Scientific American reporter Andrea Thompson notes, “Scientists…

Microplastics are yet another major crisis to be have observed signs of physical damage, such as inflammation, dealt with. Essentially, they are produced when the sea, caused by particles jabbing and rubbing against organ walls. sunlight, wind, and waves break down plastics into ever Researchers have also found that ingested microplastics can smaller particles – as small as 0.5cm in size (or even leach hazardous chemicals, both those added to polymers during as small as a grain of rice). These have been found production and environmental pollutants like pesticides that are in nearly every corner of the world – from the dizzy attracted to the surface of plastic, leading to health effects such as heights of Mount Everest to the dark depths of liver damage.” the Mariana Trench. Microparticles of plastic

THE DANGER POSED BY MICROPLASTICS

have also been found in public water systems, and in the air we breathe.

CAN THE PLANET SURVIVE THE PLASTICS CRISIS? It is never too late to fight for a cleaner planet. However, owing to the intensity of the problem, it needs to be tackled from a multifaceted perspective. Improved waste management systems are key. As stated in a study by JC Prata et al, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “An integrated waste management system, focused on the four R’s hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recover) and improving the life-cycle of plastics, are important to reduce energy and resource consumptions, avoid harmful emissions, and reduce quantities of mismanaged plastic waste reaching the oceans.” The research is detailed and very much worthy of study, since it provides detailed recommendations on how to reduce waste at every level. Some of these recommendations will be discussed below.

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MANDATORY ACTIONS Governments can also impose ecological requirements on companies and offer subsidies to those who show commitment to sustainability through measures such as recycling, replacing hazardous components with safer ones, etc. Canada is a fine example, having announced the total phasing-out of single-use plastics by 2021 and the imposition of at least 50 per cent of recycled plastics in products. In the above-mentioned study by JC Prata, researchers noted that companies should also be encouraged to use more efficient packaging, rely on eco-friendly transport and shipping configurations, etc.

INVESTMENT IN WASTE MANAGEMENT Governments that invest in waste management have less plastics on their coastlines (an example is the Australian government). Waste management is a complex process that ranges from making it easier for citizens to separate and recycle materials (e.g. through door-to-door collection of plastics) to the use of unrecyclable plastics for energy production. Only plastic that can actually be used for a productive reason should make their way to landfills. The rest should be reused, recycled, or never produced at all.

Ultimately, everyday citizens do have a voice when it comes to creating a greener world.

From voting green candidates to making more sustainable purchases, we can do our share to significantly reduce plastic consumption. Plastics are light, easy to carry around, and durable. They are also one of the biggest destructors of our oceans and are now so prevalent they are almost impossible to get rid of completely.

What changes are you willing to make and more importantly, are you ready to start today? e

THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION

Education in schools and as part of public awareness campaigns is important. Research shows that the vast majority of consumers are interested in making sustainable purchases. Many need more education on how seemingly insignificant items like microbeads in cosmetics, for instance, are harming the environment. Access to information allows consumers to be more discerning and to exert greater pressure on companies to comply with increasingly stricter sustainability standards.

IMPROVING EFFICIENCY OF PLASTIC ITEMS

The use of plastics can be reduced by using other materials (including glass, biodegradable, and recycled materials), improving design so less plastic is needed, extending product life, facilitating repair, improving recyclability by reducing percentages of polymers and other difficult-to-recycle components, etc. It is easy to see how replacing plastic in everyday items like cotton earbuds with biodegradable materials can make a big difference.

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D THE SPOTLIGHT icons

WILLIAM

MORRIS

AND THE ARTS & CRAFTS MOVEMENT The middle to late nineteen century saw not only a consolidation of Britain’s place on the world stage with its impressive Empire, it also gave rise to an appreciation of the work of two leading designers, William Morris and Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

WORDS MARK WILKINSON

Cavan / Ireland circa 2008: Arts and Crafts design house with red brick and blue timber windows

Stylised rose design inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh

I

n the latter half of the 19th Century, on the heels of the Industrial Revolution, decorative arts were characterised by the ready availability of mass-produced objects that lacked style or craftsmanship. Around 1860, stimulated by the paucity of quality in design and manufacture, a group of aesthetes emerged to challenge a perceived lack of public taste.

In 1861, poet, designer and social reformer, William Morris (1834-1896) founded a firm of interior decorators and household goods manufacturers, later to become known as Morris and Company. As a reaction to the machine-made products displayed at the Great Exhibition of 1851, which were seen as overly ornate and artificial, Morris’ aim was to recapture the essence of quality as demonstrated by medieval craftsmen. He believed that craftsmen

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should receive pleasure from the fruits of their work, and is quoted as saying, “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”

The predominance of simple and manually executed forms combined with folk, Gothic or romantic styles and techniques were core to the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Of equal importance was a reaction against the squalid conditions that factory workers endured.

Morris’ ideas, formed at Oxford University, lay in a fervent commitment to social reform. He also passionately believed that the designer needed to be instrumental to the manufacturing process.

Morris’ furniture and decorative objects were made commercially available from the early 1860’s and both his philosophy and designs were very

successful. By the late 19th century, Arts and Crafts design in houses and domestic interiors was the dominant style in Britain. The Movement stimulated demand for the skills of craftspeople and its influence in architecture, sculpture, woodwork, ceramics and home furnishings is particularly evident.

T. J. Cobden-Sanderson first used the term ‘Arts and Crafts’ at an inaugural meeting of the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society in 1887, today known as the Society of Designer Craftsmen. A close friend of Morris’ and a Barrister turned bookbinder, he later ran the Dove Bindery in Hammersmith (West London) taking its name from the nearby pub, The Dove. A first exhibition was held a year later at London’s New Gallery – now the site of Burberry’s flagship store at 121 Regent Street London – at which Morris products were prominent.

The Movement was equally inspired by the ideas of architect and designer, Augustus Pugin and the writer and social reformer, John Ruskin, who stressed that products should be crafted and desired by contented craftsman.

Founded in 1875, Liberty & Co., based in London’s Regent Street, became a prominent retailer of goods in the style of the Arts and Crafts Movement. The influence of the Movement has been profound, enduring, and is understood to have led to the establishment of the Art Nouveau style.

CHARLES RENNIE MACKINTOSH There can be few who have visited Glasgow and have failed to be impressed by the enduring legacy of the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868 – 1928). Evident in many locations around the city are the results of his work as an architect, designer, artist and visionary.

Mackintosh was born into a large middle class Glaswegian family in the Townhead area to the North East of the City. His father worked as a Clerk to the Police and his middle name Rennie was his mother’s maiden name. An able student, he initially attended Reid’s Public School and then Allan Glen’s Institution which was founded on the legacy of a successful Glaswegian businessman.

Charles was first apprenticed to John Hutchison, a local architect, but in 1899 he joined the already established practice of Messrs. Honeyman & Keppie. His first major project in their employ was

The Hill House, near Helensburgh

the Glasgow Herald Building (1899) – also now known as The Lighthouse. The design incorporated new technology including a hydro-pneumatic lift and fire resistant concrete floors.

To complete his studies he enrolled in evening classes at the Glasgow School of Art where he made the best use of the library’s extensive resources that included reports of his national and international contemporaries. At a lecture in 1893, Mackintosh passionately argued that architects and designers should be given more artistic independence. It was during this era that Mackintosh first experimented with decorative forms, metalwork and graphics.

His fellow students included sisters Margaret and Frances MacDonald. Margaret would later become his wife.

In 1890 he won the prestigious Alexander Thomson Travelling Studentship to study ancient classic architecture, a prize that included an architectural tour of Italy. Thomson, an eminent architect and pioneer of sustainable buildings, along with Mackintosh in 1966 was described as one of the “greatest architects of the Western world”.

In 1904, following the completion of further successful commissions, Mackintosh joined Honeyman & Keppie as a partner.

Given Glasgow’s heritage and reputation in international shipbuilding, various Japanese engineers were sent to learn their trades in Scotland, bringing with them oriental artifacts. Japanese art and culture caught Mackintosh’s imagination and influenced his style. The simple forms and natural materials fascinated him. Combining an Asiatic influence with new warmer aspects of Modernism and Art Nouveau, then arriving from Europe, he blended these influences with traditional Scottish architecture to stunning results.

Mackintosh was first commissioned in 1896 to design a new building for the Glasgow School of Art. Given various funding issues the construction stalled, allowing Mackintosh to make several

a number of contemporaries – and becoming leaders in the development of the Glasgow Style of the 1890’s.

Mackintosh’s interior design work is particularly beautiful with the Willow Tea Rooms and the Ingram Street Tea Rooms (now demolished) both being fine examples. Commissioned by businesswoman, Catherine Cranston, his ‘total design’ included fine and detailed work including his furniture. In addition to his signature ladder-back chairs, he and his wife designed glazed cabinets and screens.

In 1913, an economic downturn impacted hard on architectural practices and Mackintosh resigned from Honeyman & Keppie. He become disillusioned with architecture and the lack of commissions, and with his wife moved to the Suffolk village of Walberswick in 1914 and there continued to paint.

In 1916, he completed final decorative work on

Famous helical staircase at The Lighthouse – the national centre of architecture and design in Glasgow Scotland.

variations to his original designs. The interiors of the new Library, finished in 1909, were stunning and paid homage to several styles including Japanese domestic interiors. The GSA was badly fire damaged in 2014, but sealed his reputation as an influential architect. An extensive amount of his architectural detailing was almost certainly designed by his wife and fellow artist, Margaret MacDonald His architectural output was small, but influential. He was commissioned by the publisher, Walter Blackie to design Hill House in Helensburgh, to the west of Glasgow. Blackie stipulated that the construction should include no bricks, plaster, wooden beams or a red-tiled roof. He wanted grey roughcast walls and a slate roof but otherwise Mackintosh was given a free rein. Mackintosh spent time with Blackie and his family so as to ensure that his design would suit their needs.

Mackintosh, his wife, her sister Frances and his architectural colleague, Herbert MacNair, became known as The Glasgow Four. They exhibited widely in Glasgow, London and Vienna – influencing

a project at 78 Derngate (Northampton), a midterrace property owned by local entrepreneur and reformer WJ Bassett-Lowke. The property has now been completely restored and demonstrates his compelling use of primary colours and geometric motifs.

Following a move to the South of France in 1923, the couple returned to London in 1927 when Charles was diagnosed with cancer. He died on 10th December 1928 at the age of 60.

Recent discoveries at the Glasgow School of Art record that William Morris lectured at the School in 1889 to an audience that is thought to have included Charles Rennie Mackintosh. It has been suggested “some of his stylistic and architectural details were determined by Arts & Crafts ideals.”

i More articles from Aestheticons – the Home of Iconic Design – can be seen at www.aestheticons.wordpress.com

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D THE SPOTLIGHT panorama

PANORAMA

The Clover Realty Company’s team in Charlottesville, Virginia in the 1960s

50 YEARS IN MARBELLA 116 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE For any company to achieve 50 years of uninterrupted business is a milestone, but to do so in the highly competitive Marbella property market is a true accomplishment indeed. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PANORAMA PROPERTIES

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B.B.Clover’s sales office in the early 1950s

BB Clover, who established the family’s first agency in Chicago in 1904

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ounded in Marbella in 1970, Panorama Properties is much more than just a real estate agency. In half a century, it has not only surmounted the vicissitudes of time, experiencing both the good and leaner times, but has in the process chronicled the evolution of Marbella and become part of its very fabric.

The company is family-owned and managed by Christopher Clover and his two children Alex and Katinka, and is today comprised of a team of 24 professionals speaking twelve different languages.

FOUR GENERATIONS IN REAL ESTATE Half a century in Marbella real estate is an achievement as yet unequalled, for Panorama is the longest-running agency in the region – and yet, the family’s link with real estate goes back even further, stretching four generations to the founding of the real estate agency B. B. Clover and Company in Chicago in 1904 by Chris’s grandfather, Burtt Byron Clover.

B. B. Clover was also a property developer who in the 1920s built one of the first professional golf courses in the USA, in the suburbs of Chicago. The clubhouse and golf course of Itasca still stands proudly today to his credit, along with many of the stylish half-timbered houses surrounding the course. A testament to a philosophy of quality and service that has permeated through the generations to the present day, as it also forms the basis for Panorama’s own business ethos.

“The principles of Panorama are the family values of fair, honest and transparent dealing, as

Winning the European Property Award for Best Real Estate Agency Single Office, Spain

taught by my father to me and by his father to him.

Any success we have had is thanks to following these principles carefully,” states Christopher Clover.

Later the family moved to Charlottesville, a prosperous university town in central Virginia two hours’ drive south of Washington DC. Here, Chris’s father, Williston ‘Bill’ Clover, continued the family business, establishing a highly successful real estate agency and property development firm that was involved in the sale of many of the most important historic homes and country estates in the area. Bill was also a nationally ranked tennis player in his youth, the tennis coach of the University of Virginia during the war, an architect,

property developer and a specialist in the breeding and raising of Aberdeen Angus cattle.

It was in this setting that Chris and his brother, Bill, grew up. After graduating with distinction from the University of Virginia with a degree in economics, commerce and French, Chris taught French for two years before joining the family business in 1971. Three years before in 1968, his father had acquired the Washington DC-based property agency Panorama International Ltd, as a means to market luxury international homes to American buyers. This led to the opening of the Marbella office in 1970, later followed by Mallorca and also Mexico City, established by Chris’s brother Bill.

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Chris Clover, Managing Director of Panorama

Chris’s father, W. L. Clover – Panorama’s founder

Chris and his current wife Jovita at a glamorous Marbella event

fascinating people from around the world. It was an enriching experience which, together with the Andalusian culture and gentle pace of life, produced a unique quality environment that continues to attract people from around the world.”

Panorama Properties had been founded to promote Spanish property to American buyers, and indeed, many came here and fell in love with Marbella. In addition to being the first real estate agency to sponsor inspection flights to the coast, and the first international real estate agency in Marbella, Panorama was also the first to hold ‘open houses’ for fellow agents, and would pioneer a great many other innovations that have since become common practice on the Costa del Sol. As the firm’s market expanded to also

include new waves of British, Middle Eastern and European buyers, its reputation and place within Marbella was solidified to the point where now, Panorama has become an integral part of the local community.

Even before 1980, Panorama was already a prominent name in Marbella real estate, and continues to be even more so as it celebrates its fiftieth anniversary. Operating from two offices on the prestigious Golden Mile, Panorama is involved in the listing, promotion and sale of many of the most important properties in this region, expanding its expertise to also include luxury rentals, commercial property and a special division dedicated to land acquisition and providing a bespoke service for both institutional and private investors.

EVOLVING WITH MARBELLA When Chris arrived in Marbella in 1973 to head up the Marbella office, the town was still small and truly glamorous. The Marbella Club was in its heyday, attracting an international A-list clientele that included aristocrats, royalty, Hollywood stars and the cream of Spanish and European society.

This much was evident at the inauguration party of Puerto Banús, which was attended by the likes of Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly, the Aga Khan, José Banús and of course, Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe. A certain Julio Iglesias provided the live entertainment.

“They were heady times,” recalls Chris Clover.

“Marbella was in full development and already a very exclusive, special place where you could not only enjoy the finest climate in Europe within a beautiful setting, but also rub shoulders with

Panorama’s main office on the Golden Mile

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Promoting Marbella

real estate to an Am

erican public

Chris, the Shamoons and the Corners in the 1970s

Article in the Iberian Dail 1973 when Chris arrivedy Sun, March to Marbella

50 Years of Service The relationship forged with clients is at the heart of Panorama’s success, where Chris and his team have been involved in finding and managing properties on behalf of royalty, managing the acquisition of an embassy building in Tokyo for the Foreign Ministry of Saudi Arabia, as well as transactions involving large tracts of land on the Costa del Sol and prime office premises in Madrid and London. The main focus of the business, however, has always been and continues to be the marketing of quality residential properties in the Marbella area.

“There are always challenges to overcome in this highly competitive business and we are in an industry that is constantly evolving. My greatest personal pleasure has been to meet so many wonderful people from around the world who come to Marbella, many of whom have become close friends,”

says Chris Clover. “We have had clients from well over 50 different countries, and have learned something from each of them.” It is this passion both for real estate and the personal relationships forged with clients that forms the basis for Panorama’s longevity and dedication to professionalism. “It has been said of me that I am a stickler for precision and detail, but how else would it be possible to survive and thrive for 50 years in such a competitive industry as this?”

Chris’s penchant for clear and correct procedure is his clients’ guarantee in a process that involves not only excellent service but also a level of in-depth technical and market knowledge that is the product of 50 years of experience.

“Over the years we have come across every real estate situation you can imagine, and we have become experts at solving problems when they come up.

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Three generations of a family spanning 116 years in real estate today

Chris and his brother Bill, who heads Panorama’s sister company, Panorama International Limited in San Antonio, Texas

We move very quickly and efficiently — and safely — on behalf of our clients and perform our own due diligence before taking a property for sale on our books, but we are not a ‘pushy’ sales organisation. We are here for the long haul and strive to be a high quality, as well as highly qualified service company in every aspect of our work.”

As a result of his many contributions to the real estate industry in the area, Chris was invited to become an Eminent Fellow of the renowned Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in 2015, the largest real estate organisation in the world with 134,000 members in 140 different countries. The following year, Panorama became one of only two residential real estate agencies in Spain to be RICS regulated, which gives important guarantees of professional conduct to its buyer and seller clients.

In 2019, the firm was awarded Best

Chris and his first wife Kirsten in the mid-70s

Agency (Single Office) in Spain by the prestigious International Property Awards.

Panorama also operates another real estate agency called Puente Romano Real Estate as part of a joint venture with the Puente Romano and Nobu Hotel Group, giving their seller clients highly effective, direct exposure of their property listings to the hotels’ clients.

Clover acquires Panorama International Ltd. and opens a Marbella office in 1970

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An international team of experts speaking 12 languages among them

It is this pedigree that clients can count on when buying from or selling through Chris and his international, multilingual team. “We jealously protect our role as negotiators of the commercial elements of a property transaction and are very good at bringing the two parties together in harmony,” says Chris. “We work closely with other agents and colleagues, as well as learning from them, but we always seek to distinguish ourselves through the quality of our service and our efficacy. Through our experience and market research, resulting in our annual market report, we have become an authoritative source of information, offering our clients hard market knowledge and statistics that is well documented and of great value to both buyers and sellers.”

“Panorama is a modern company founded on age-old principles and ethics. This, together with our dedicated and talented staff – many of whom have been with us long term – the invaluable support of our many friends, our ability to adapt to changing markets, and to learn from and collaborate with our competitors, forms the basis of 50 successful years in business.”

The fourth generation of this family-run business continued the long-standing real estate tradition of the Clover family when Chris’s children, Katinka and Alex, both born in Spain, joined the company after the turn of the century. Katinka, a graduate from the American University of Paris, and Alex, who graduated from his dad’s alma mater, the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, have become an integral part

of Panorama, bringing an essential perspective and added leadership to help the company to adapt to changing times, opening a new chapter in the history of Marbella’s longest-established real estate agency.

To celebrate its 50th anniversary in Marbella, Panorama is completely refurbishing its Puente Romano office (designed by the master decorator Jean-Pierre Martel), which Chris states will be one of the most impressive offices of its kind anywhere.

Alex and Katinka, who joined Panorama in the early 2000s

g PANORAMA, MARBELLA’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED REAL ESTATE AGENCY At Puente Romano, next to the Nobu Hotel reception and at Edificio Centro Expo, opposite the Marbella Club Hotel.

Tel: (+34) 952 863 750. info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

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D THE SPOTLIGHTmotoring It wasn’t that long ago when the notion of exotic nameplate carmakers getting involved with SUVs was widely dismissed, even by the manufacturers themselves.

But the current mantra of ‘ignore the SUV market at your peril’ has brought us utility vehicles from previously undreamed of sources.

ASTON MARTIN DBX PREMIUM SUV WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ASTON MARTIN

T

he latest premium sports car builder to join the fray is Aston Martin with its 2020 DBX, a model that the 106-year-old UK maker describes as “an SUV with the soul of a sports car.” One look at the DBX confirms that the goal has been met, certainly from a design standpoint.

Aston Martin picked up design cues from its sports cars perhaps more successfully than rival megalux SUV makers. This is especially evident not just with the nose and grille but also at the rear of the vehicle. The profile is also about as sleek as could be achieved in an SUV design. It adds

up to a very attractive rig with not a single discordant panel.

While looks are important to Aston Martin and its customers, it’s critical that the vehicle is backed up with an impressive technical spec

sheet and there are no disappointments there.

The power unit is the same 4.0-litre, twin-turbo, V-8 you’ll find under the bonnets of the DB11 and Vantage. It develops 550-horsepower and has been adapted to meet the specific needs of a performance SUV. Power is conveyed to the road with a 9-speed automatic transmission and allwheel drive.

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Interestingly, this is the first vehicle ever built by Aston Martin with five seats and a generously sized interior was a key design priority. The split folding rear seats mean that a variety of cargos can be carried in addition to the occupants. The load area offers an impressive 632-litres of space, so the DBX is highly practical and not just a goodlooking performance SUV. To emphasise its utility, the DBX will tow more than 2,500kg.

The interior will thrill Aston fans and just about everyone else with its emphasis on opulent materials as well as exceptional roominess.

Bridge of Weir leather is there in profusion and if the customer desires, features of the centre console can be machined

from a solid piece of walnut or other exotic wood. Expectedly, the DBX comes with an almost bewildering array of infotainment and connectivity gear plus a suite of electronic stability features.

For Aston Martin, this is a determined effort to place the historic carmaker in the thick of the increasingly competitive ultra-luxury SUV market.

Hybrid and all-electric variants are being hinted at for the future. A new factory has been built in St. Athan, Wales, to handle DBX production and this confirms Aston’s long-term commitment to the SUV segment that just seems to get hotter and hotter. e

Z ENGINE: 4.0-litre twin turbo V-8 550-horsepower.

Z TRANSMISSION: 9-speed automatic/allwheel drive.

Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 4.5-seconds.

Z TOP SPEED: 290 km/h.

Z I LIKED: Outstanding Aston Martin styling that’s attractive from every angle.

Performance more in the sports supercar class than the SUV field. All the interior luxury and comfort buyers expect from Aston Martin.

Z I DIDN’T LIKE: Some potential buyers will be wondering why Aston Martin isn’t using its V-12 engine for this model.

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, top end Porsche Cayennes, Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG. Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Aston Martin owners will be the first in line for this one, also Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus SUV drivers looking to take a step into the megalux performance segment.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: €193.500 (Germany).

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D THE SPOTLIGHT people Taylor Swift is one of the world’s top musical artists, with a string of Grammys to her name and an ever-growing list of number one singles. She has penned classic ‘female power’ tunes like We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together and Shake It Off, filled venues as iconic as the 105,000-seat Ohio Stadium and sold more singles in the past decade than any other artist.

Taylor represents strength, independence, and creativity, so it is is surprising to learn that she is still in the midst of a creative battle involving music she created when she was with her old studio (Big Machine – now owned by Justin Bieber’s manager, Scooter Braun).

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

TAYLOR

SWIFT

AND THE FIGHT FOR FREEDOM

© Press Line Photos / Shutterstock.com

T

he struggle between Swift and Braun has got ugly on more than one occasion – particularly when Swift plain out stated that Braun was refusing to allow her to play her old music. Swift was just 15 when she signed up with Big Machine; she remained with them until relatively recently, when she joined Universal. Swift, not one to mince words, accused Braun of “incessant, manipulative bullying,” adding, “My musical legacy is about to lie in the hands of someone who tried to dismantle it.”

The singer hopes to re-record and re-release her first six LPs. Swift also complained on Twitter that Braun and co. were not even allowing her to perform her old songs at the American Music Awards (AMAs). She Tweeted: “I’m not allowed to perform my old songs on television because that would be rerecording my music before I’m allowed to next year.” She additionally said she was not permitted to use this music in her recent Netflix documentary release. Braun alleges that he has attempted to negotiate with Swift on various occasions, only to have the door slammed in his face. He also stated that she was, in fact, free to perform her music at the AMAs. Of course, this will all be old news by the time Swift gives a potentially new spin to classics that have sold millions across the globe. When the issue is fixed, we have no doubt that the chanteusse will find a new cause to fight for; she is a warrior in many ways.

If you are a Taylor Swift fan, then you know that one of the characteristics of her lyrics is honesty. Her love life makes it into many of her greatest hits. We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, for instance, is said to be dedicated to old love, Jake Gyllenhaal. The lyrics are indicative of the reason for their breakup. “I'm really gonna miss you picking fights and me/ Falling for it,

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TAYLOR SWIFT ADMITS TO BATTLING AN EATING DISORDER Taylor Swift’s recent admission of the fact that she has battled an eating disorder for many years, was no less than an act of bravery; something she could have just kept quiet about for many more years. Her statement – contained in her documentary Miss Americana (which recently premiered on Netflix) – explains why she took a hiatus from performing for a year, working on her health and getting back to a healthy size six (Taylor was a size double-zero at her lowest point).

DANGEROUS TRIGGERS

screaming that I'm right and you/ Would hide away and find your peace of mind with some/ Indie record that's so much cooler than mine.”

She didn’t deny the fact, meanwhile, that her album 1989, was all about her breakup with One Direction star, Harry Styles. In the U.S., her dating past is often the source of jokes, but she probably hasn’t dated more than the average 20-year-old.

The only difference is that her life is written in the lyrics of her highly relatable tunes.

One of Taylor’s biggest battles occurred in 2009, with Kanye West. The self-proclaimed genius interrupted Taylor onstage at the VMAs (she had just been awarded the Best Female Video prize). She was 18 at the time and her shock (Kanye literally grabbed the mic off her as she was giving her thank you speech, declaring Beyoncé to be the just winner) was matched by her elegance and, subsequently, her honesty.

West would continue to tease Swift subsequently, dropping the single Famous and rapping (about Swift): “I feel like me and Taylor might still have sex Why? I made that b**** famous (God damn), I made that b**** famous.” Embarrassing (or darkly humorous – depending on your taste), considering he had previously apologised for his behaviour at the VMAs. Even Obama called him a “jerk” for the interruption.

Taylor Swift recently released her single The Man, in which she describes the dichotomous nature of life as a modern artist: “You are kind of doing a constant strategy in your head as to how not to be shamed for something on any given day. But then you get accused of being calculated for having a strategy.” She may have doubts about life and herself, but she always comes out on top with songs that affirm the power, beauty, and intelligence of modern women – everyday women just like you and me!

Somehow, the admission seems shocking from someone who appears to possess ‘natural model looks’. It is also a stark reminder for teens and adults alike to watch their words. The silliest comment can trigger an eating disorder. In Taylor’s case, it was a speculation that she was pregnant because the outfit she was wearing made her look like she had a bigger belly than usual. Taylor says she carefully prepared lies to tell the press when asked about her slimness – including statements that she loved eating, that she was continually downing burgers and donuts “at all hours of the day.” She was, of course, starving, and she admits that it was largely about control. When the press is ready to pounce on you for every slight flaw, she says, one thing you can take control of – is your body. Thankfully, Taylor was able to rely on crucial support and aid to get her through.

BODY FOCUS

In addition to speaking in her documentary, Taylor also talked to Variety, explaining that it wasn’t just the criticism that got to her, it was the compliments about her body as well. The truth is that, “You just start to accommodate everything towards praise and punishment, including your own body.” She adds that many times, she felt like fainting after performing – something she thought was to be expected. It was only as she began

recovering that she realised that by seeing food as a fuel – she could take on all her concerts and professional commitments with the energy and vitality she craved.

CAN RELATE

Taylor’s admission has done more than simply show us that all that glitters is not gold; it has also helped the many fans who are undergoing the same thing. In a way, those struggling against the powerful force of anorexia nervosa (which has one of the highest mortality rates of all mental illnesses) and bulimia benefit from knowing that they are not alone. Of course, young teens can also take heart in the fact that their idols are open about their problem and the importance of seeking help and support. Being aware of the type of comments and images that can trigger these disorders is also key.

EATING DISORDERS IN SPAIN

Eating disorders currently affect one in 10 adolescents in Spain. Mental health professionals state that the rate is increasing steadily on a yearly basis. In 2018, the Spanish government approved a non-legislative motion to fight eating disorders, urging the implementation of a series of legal measures – including the identification of photos that have been digitally retouched, visibly indicating the age of models advertising beauty products, and closing any pro-eating disorder sites. Spain, alongside France, Italy, Israel and other countries have taken steps to ban the hiring of models with a BMI of less than 18. Spain was a real pioneer in this respect, enforcing this ban in 2006. Some countries, like France, took over a decade more to do so.

I can only commend young celebrities like Taylor who are not ashamed to say Swift had given hints of her eating disorder in the past; that body image is an issue for them as when she turned 30, she reflected on changes to her life, well – people erroneously perceived penning an article that read, “I learned to stop hating every as ‘perfect’ by their legions of fans. To ounce of fat on my body. I worked hard to retrain my brain that a hear your idol recognise they are going little extra weight means curves, shinier hair, and more energy. through a similar battle as you are can I think a lot of us push the boundaries of dieting, but taking it help you admit you need help. Food too far can be really dangerous. There is no quick fix. I work should neither be something to deprive on accepting my body every day.” She also works on being yourself off nor binge on unhealthily. more aware of the toxic messages sent out by society Rather, it should be seen as the pleasurable about women’s bodies. Food, she says, should be energy giver it is! e pleasurable and healthful – not a means of control.

IN TAYLOR’S WORDS

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D THE SPOTLIGHT people

A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE

FLORENCE

PUGH

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

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Florence plays Amy in Little Women

S

he may have just turned 24 this year, but she has a strength and confidence that resonates not only via her voice but also through her body language. Had she appeared on our screens a decade or two ago, she might have been labelled haughty, overconfident, or even conceited, but thankfully, the new millennium has brought with it an appreciation not only of diversity, but also of character – especially when it comes from women. I first came across Florence Pugh in this year’s hit film Little Women (a remake by Greta Gerwig, based on Louisa May Alcott’s best-selling book). Florence plays Amy – a much-hated character who ‘nabs’ the leading man (Laurie) and who has always been portrayed as petty, materialistic, and vain – but she has done the unthinkable and turned this role on its head.

Florence is a British actor with a unique (bordering on strange) filmography which reveals her ‘great expectations’. She first shone alongside Game of Thrones alum Maisie Grey in The Falling – a rather surreal film about a psychological virus that takes over girls at a posh British school. Two years later, at the age of 20, she appeared in Lady Macbeth, then in various British films including Malevolent – a horror film in which her character loses her grip on reality. One of her most spine-tingling performances was in last year’s Midsommar – a psychological horror film about a group

of Danish students who celebrate their graduation in a forest, only to be overcome by a spirit that is connected to a friend who had recently committed suicide.

It is for no small reason that Greta Gerwig chose Florence to play Amy. This character, she felt, was treated unfairly in previous versions of the film (the most famous being the 1949 version starring June Allyson as Jo and Elizabeth Taylor – no less – as Amy).

The reason Amy has so many ‘haters’ is that everyone wants the most appealing and independent sister – Jo – to marry the character of Laurie. Indeed, every single film version – including Gerwig’s – displays a powerful chemistry between the eldest sister and their rich and handsome neighbour.

However, when Louisa May Alcott wrote her book, she specifically married Jo off to a poor professor in a way to spite those who wanted her to ‘marry well’. Instead, Jo vows to never marry at all – only to marry much later and to opt for intellect in lieu of passion. Meanwhile, little sister Amy marries the gorgeous and charming Laurie – which has always left a bitter taste in the audience’s mouth. Not this time, thanks to Florence!

In the 2019 version of the film, Amy’s artistic talents are allowed to shine through more brightly. Thus, Amy is still as practical as ever (she wishes to marry well so as to be free to dedicate her life to art and beauty) but she

is more headstrong and has quite a bit more in common with her sister Jo than she did in any of the previous film versions. This way, when Laurie falls in love with her after having his heart broken by Jo, we get the impression that he has in fact made a good choice.

In a recent press conference for Little Women, Greta Gerwig expresses her surprise at how confident Florence Pugh was around Meryl Streep. “She had just met Meryl, who was in a carriage, and she just slipped onto the seat and introduced herself.” Pugh would explain that her bravado was simply to avoid acting like a star-struck teen. However, after seeing her in so many interviews, I feel that the reason for her confidence was that she was not in awe at all. At 24, is it possible to feel that a grande dame like Meryl Streep is just another colleague? I would say yes – that is exactly what she is. Every actor puts his or her grain of sand to create a castle and nobody is less important than the other – regardless of who has more Oscars on the shelf.

After seeing Florence Pugh more than stand her ground against both Meryl Streep and the always-magnificent Saoirse Ronan, I must say I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for us. She has the makings of a young Judi Dench, if I may say so myself, her low voice and confident body language are just perfect for the new millennium – one in which all a woman has to be, is herself. e

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CUTILLAS COMPILED BY MARISA

sinski (A Quiet Place) » DIRECTOR John Kra r » GENRE Thrille e y, Emily Blunt, Noah Jup » CAST Cillian Murph

film then you know that the If you saw A Quiet Place, t involved tha ry ste my ling hril a-t was an amazing, ultr see, with a supersonic monsters you could not living being that made any kill ability to attack and ther s Emily Blunt play a mo a noise. This sequel see ce, pla e saf e her kids to a who is determined to tak the h wit les tac obs erous negotiating many treach t in which they can live hopes of finding a retrea dly enemies. without fearing their dea

I I t r a P : e c a l P t e i A Qu

» DIRECTOR Francois Girard » GENRE Drama » CAST Clive Owen, Tim Roth, Catherine McCormack

The Song of Names

This dramatic film is an adaptation of a novel of the same name by Norman Lebrecht. Tim Roth and Clive Owen play childhood friends from London whose lives are changed irrevocably during World War II. A mystery unfolds when one of the children, a gifted violin prodigy, disappears on the day of his musical debut. The film then follows the horrors of the war and the Holocaust, revealing why the friends were separated for so many years.

» DIRECTOR Walt Dohrn (Trolls), David P Smith (The Powerpuff Girls: Dance Pantsed) » GENRE Animation » CAST Anna Kendrick, Sam Rockwell, Jamie Dornan

Trolls World Tour

Trolls World Tour is an upcoming American computer-animated musical comedy film produced by DreamWorks Animation and distributed by Universal Pictures. It is the sequel to the 2016 hit flick Trolls. This time, the little creatures have to get together to battle against Queen Barn and her father King Thrash, who wish to eliminate all other forms of music except rock.

The trolls are determined to ensure that pop, funk, classical, techno, country, and rock continue to hold sway on the current musical scene.

» DIRECTOR Niki Caro (Whale Rider) » GENRE Adventure » CAST Liu Yifei, Donnie Yen, Jet Li, Gong Li

Mulan

Mulan is the live-action adaptation of the Disney animated film about a female warrior who steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Mulan is nimble, strong, and quick on her feet. Disguised as a man called Hua Jun, she tackles obstacle after obstacle, achieving her true potential when she refuses to be defined by her sex or age.

» DIRECTOR Dan Scanlon (Monsters University) » GENRE Animation » CAST Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Octavia Spencer

Onward

This animated film is set in a world inhabited by mysterious creatures who use magic to further their desires. As the years pass by, the creatures begin to lose their natural abilities, relying instead on technology such as mobile phones and cars to get by. Two teenage brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, embark on a quest to see if magic still exists in the world so they can spend one day with their father, who died shortly before Ian was born. e

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w THE TREND netflix

THE GOLDEN AGE OF

NETFLIX

With more Oscar nominations than the major Hollywood studios and a cast of A-list stars signed up to shoot next year’s blockbusters, the streaming upstart that turned our TV viewing habits upside down is threatening to make popcorn of cinema culture too. Belinda Beckett reports.

I

t takes a lot to turn heads in Hollywood but all LA was talking about the cash Netflix was flashing at this year’s Oscars. There were the schmooze parties, the vote lobbying billboards lining Sunset Boulevard and the prime time TV interviews with its stable of stars – heavy hitters like Martin Scorsese, Robert de Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci for The Irishman and Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce for The Two Popes.

For the first time in Academy Awards history, a streaming company slayed the

studio stalwarts with 24 nominations and looked set to make a killing in little gold statuettes. They took home just two – a sign that the industry isn’t quite ready to hand out gongs to a rival that releases only some of its films for short runs and streams them on its own platform soon after.

In just over two decades, Netflix has pulled the plug on cable TV profits, driven a modem through communal family viewing, and made binge-watchers of us all. The Silicon Valley dotcom that started out selling mail-order DVDs online has grown into the giant of video-on-demand, streaming 250 million hours of shows to circa 160 million subscribers worldwide in 26 languages.

Stephen Spielberg is not the only industry kingpin to suggest Netflix is a nail in the coffin of the cinema experience, although wide screen is still showing all its vital signs at the box office.

But it’s not just Hollywood that’s wary of the Netflix Effect. In 2016, Russia’s Cultural Minister claimed it was a CIA plot ‘to enter every home, to creep into every television and through that television, into the head of every person on earth’.

In fact you can watch Netflix on your

phone, tablet, games consul, on the seatback screen of an aircraft and even in your Tesla car (providing it’s parked). You can view a whole series instead of staying in on a Friday night to watch just one episode. Netflix gives you recommendations, trailers, a skip intro button, you can download shows to watch offline, and there are no intrusive commercials.

But original content is the main reason we love Netflix. In 2013, the streamer switched focus away from films and TV reruns, signing its own stars, scriptwriters and directors and opening studios in New Mexico to shoot its own movies and series. Today, a library of 850 Netflix Originals keeps us rooted to our sofas with gripping drama series like The Crown and monumental movies like Marriage Story which scored an Oscar, a Bafta, and a Golden Globe for Supporting Actress Laura Dern.

White House drama House of Cards, the first show to earn major nominations (for Robin Wright and Kevin Spacey) so intrigued Vladimir Putin he told his Defence Minister to watch it for insights into American politics.

Netflix not only pays top dollar (Spacey earned $500,000 per episode), it has a

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NETFLIXATION

Z Women’s prison drama Orange Is The New Black is the most watched Netflix original series to date). The Sandra Bullock-led post-apocalyptic thriller Bird Box is the mostwatched film.

Z A Netflix subscription saves you watching 160 hours of commercials a year.

Z Close to 1,500 hours of original shows were streamed last year – nearly nine consecutive weeks of binge-watching or a whole year of daily four-hour viewing sessions.

Z Netflix subscribers are guinea pigs. Their viewing habits are translated into 2,000 different algorithms that search for shows they might like.

Z Over 60% of subscribers binge-watch multiple episodes Orange Is The or even an entire series at a New Black is the most watched sitting and enjoy the spoiler Netflix original power it gives them. series to date

Olivia Colman has won multiple awards as the Queen in The Crown

2020 THRILL LIST

We don’t know the full schedule yet but, coming next month, look forward to Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) Series Four, the most popular Netflix show in Spain, and David Attenborough’s A Life on Our Planet, the 93-year-old naturalist’s ‘witness statement and vision of the future’. Here’s a taster of the rest of 2020’s offerings.

crystal ball into our viewing tastes via a vast databank of subscriber info. This allows it to fund entire series upfront when other production companies are hedging their bets with pilot episodes.

In recent coups it signed Game of Thrones creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss to write exclusive content, and a seven-documentary deal with Barack and Michelle Obama’s film company.

And with a mammoth content budget of $17.5 billion this year – more than any Hollywood studio or TV company – it’s bent on bagging more trophies for the corporate mantelpiece next awards season.

But Netflix needs to look to those laurels because the battlefield just got a lot bigger. Rival streaming platforms Apple TV Plus and Disney Plus launched last November while NBC Universal’s Peacock and WarnerMedia’s HBO Max are entering the online fray this spring, joining Amazon and Hulu in what’s getting to be a pretty overcrowded marketplace.

Saturday night at the movies may never be the same again.

FILMS

Laura Dern triumphs at the Baftas for Marriage Story

Z THE DIG Ralph Fiennes and Carey Mulligan star in this period drama about a widow who finds hidden riches on her property.

Z DA 5 BLOODS Spike Lee epic following a group of black Vietnam vets returning to the war zone to search for buried treasure.

Z EUROVISION Comedy starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams as an Icelandic duo competing in the famous contest.

Z REBECCA Lily James stars in this Daphne du Maurier classic adapted by Alfred Hitchcock in 1940.

Z THE PROM Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman and James Corden head a glittering cast in the film of the Broadway show about a lesbian teenager banned from taking her girlfriend to the prom.

SERIES

Z AFTER LIFE Ricky Gervais’s dark but heart-warming comedy returns for Season 2.

Z RATCHED Sarah Paulson as wicked Nurse Ratched from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest in a prequel series from Ryan Murphy.

Z THE CROWN Series Four sees British unknown Emma Corrin stepping into Princess Diana’s ballerina flats. Olivia Colman stays on as the Queen but will give up the throne to Imelda Staunton for the fifth and final series.

Z BRIDGERTON Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes has adapted Julia Quinn’s romance novels for this period drama set in Regency London. Julie Andrews, 85, voices the unseen but pivotal Lady Whistledown. e

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THE GAME CHANGERS WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

VEGAN ATHLETES ACHIEVE AMAZING FEATS!

T

here was a time when doctors, trainers, and athletes alike espoused the same idea: to excel at sports involving speed, strength, or stamina, you needed to eat protein- and Vitamin B12-rich meat. A fascinating documentary called The Game Changers aims to revise the way you think, eat, and perform.

Narrated by UFC fighter James Wilkins, it involves interviews with doctors, nutritionists, and some of the world’s most incredible athletes – including Dotsie Bausch (who won a silver Olympic medal in indoor cycling at the age of 39) and Patrik Baboumian (a GermanAmernian strongman who has won the gruelling Germany’s Strongest Man competition and set records for feats like heavyweight log lifting (190kg lifted) and yolk walks (lifting 260kg). Also interviewed is the man himself – Arnold Schwarzenegger – who gives one of the most powerful messages in the film (but let’s get to that later).

MAIN TENETS OF THE DOCUMENTARY James Wilkins introduces us to athletes whose commitment, discipline, and inner strength is at least as impressive as their athletic prowess. In addition to the athletes mentioned above, there is Scott Jurek – an ultra-marathon runner who beat the world record for completing the Appalachian Trail (climbing and descending 80km every day in 46 days). At 3,523km,

this is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world. Even more impressive was the fact that Jurek beat the record despite having a torn quadricep.

What Jurek has in common with athletes like Dotsie Bausch is the tough nature of their sports and the fact that all are vegan. All say that a meat-free diet has given them more strength, speed, and stamina, and that it has enhanced their capacity to restore and repair the ‘damage’ caused to muscles and tissues by training.

WHAT DOES THE SCIENCE SAY? The documentary sees doctors undertaking various tests to prove the supremacy of the plant-based diet. In one, athletes are given a meat burrito in one sitting and a vegan one in the next. Their blood is taken afterwards and put through a centrifuge machine.

The result is quite astounding to the eye. The plasma following a plant-based meal is relatively clear, whereas the plasma obtained after a meat-based meal is cloudy – the opaque matter being none other than fat. According to the doctor, plant-based diets boost endothelial function. The latter essentially involves allowing blood to flow freely through the arteries.

Plant-based diets help the body overcome inflammation, while meat does just the opposite – put the body in an inflamed state.

GUT MICROBIOMES Another idea espoused in the documentary is that which states that gut microbiomes thrive when a plant-based diet is consumed.

This is because fruits and vegetables are rich in fibre, which promote the growth of a healthy gut microbiome. Clinical dietician, Dr. Rebeca Eriksen of Executive Health recently advised that meat could be consumed occasionally, but she generally recommended a pescetarian diet – since fish (particularly fatty fish) contains important Omega-3 essential fatty acids which are good for heart and brain health.

HEART HEALTH AND CANCER The documentary points to many studies showing that plant-based diets can help improve heart health and even reverse clogging in the arteries. There are also links between eating meat and some cancers (as my own research indicates). One study undertaken by the University of Leeds in 2018, for instance, found that a vegan diet significantly reduces the risk of distal colon cancer. A vegan diet can also help reduce the risk of prostate cancer, while meat and dairy foods can increase cancer progression. The documentary states that all essential amino acids can be found in fruits and vegetables (but you should eat a wide variety of them) and that B12 can be sourced from supplements.

CRITICISMS OF THE DOCUMENTARY

Despite enjoying a very high audience rating, The Game Changers has its fair share of critics. One criticism is that some of its ideas are quite radical – e.g. it says that eating just one piece of meat can be highly detrimental.

In one article in My Sports Science, Asker Jeukendrup writes that “soy protein does not increase muscle protein synthesis to the same extent as the ingestion of comparable (isonitrogenous) amounts of whey protein, skimmed milk, or beef.” Another article in Men’s Health notes that some of the studies mentioned in the documentary (e.g. the one indicating that milk reduces testosterone) are limited (e.g. the study indicating that meat reduces testosterone was undertaken on 18 people and the results showed that this hormone was reduced temporarily. Moreover, only testosterone secretions – not overall testosterone – were affected). See the article by Paul Kita for further information.

Whether or not you agree fully with the documentary, one thing that nearly all dietitians and nutritionists will tell you is that your meat quotient should be reduced dramatically – as much for your health as for the environment (since the meat industry depletes so much of our land and water resources).

I agree with Arnold Schwarzenegger, who insists that you don’t have to go all-out to experience the benefits of veganism. Start with just one day a week; that small act will already have a huge impact on your health and that of the Planet. e

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¿QUÉ PASA? WORDS RIK FOXX

SIMPLE MINDS Live concerts are a bit thin on the ground although there's some Spanish activity in Málaga (see below) – but there are bound to be a few tribute gigs along the coast (especially on St. Patrick's Day) so check your local weekly press for details. All information on this page was correct at the time of writing.

Spanish gigs in Málaga: at Sala La Trinchera on March 5 rock o' popsters SINSINATI, QUEEN tribute band FAMILY ROCK SUNDAY'S (8th) and heavy metal outfit OBÚS (20th). At Sala París on March 7 rapper FERNANDOCOSTA. On March 27 & 28 new flamenco artist EL BARRIO plays the Palacio de Deportes Martín Carpena.

Ticket info for all the above: ticketmaster.es The Cervantes Theatre hosts local singer VANESA MARTÍN on March 22: Ticket info: teatrocervantes.com Recent additions to Marbella's Starlite Festival include NILE ROGERS & CHIC (July 22) and SIMPLE MINDS (July 31). For updates and ticket info: starlitemarbella.com Torremolinos will host the biggest Latin festival in Spain this year at the local feria grounds. Puerto Rican reggaeton star DADDY YANKEE headlines the Alma Latina Festival on July 17 & 18. Full line-up and ticket details: almalatinafestival.com Rock Lounge Promotions have two gigs at the New Marbella Arena (Old Bullring) in Puerto Banús with Disco Under the Stars featuring SISTER SLEDGE and SHALAMAR on July 31 plus on August 5, ALI CAMPBELL'S UB40. For more info and tickets: rocklounge.com US indie legends SMASHING PUMPKINS will support GUNS N' ROSES on most European gigs for their Not In This Lifetime tour but have yet to be confirmed for Sevilla's Estadio Benito Villamarín (Real Betis football ground) on May 23. Ticket info: livenation.es

BILLIE EILISH is the main name in 2020 so far, only the second artist (and first female) to win all of the ‘Big Four’ awards at the Grammys in one night, unexpectedly landing the forthcoming JAMES BOND theme tune, singing at the Oscars and gracing the cover of this month's US edition of Vogue. The 18-yearold American's only scheduled gig in Spain this year is at Madrid's Mad Cool Festival (July 8 - 11). Other headliners include ALT-J, KINGS OF LEON and TAYLOR SWIFT. Full line-up and ticket info: madcoolfestival.es

Sticking with TAYLOR, while promoting her new Netflix Miss Americana docu-film last month, she announced she has extended her short term deal with Universal and the music business giants say they will eventually assume control of her entire back catalogue which is currently owned by SCOOTER BRAUN and SCOTT BORCHETTA who spent most of last year arguing with the singer over performing rights. And after been named the last decade's best selling singles artist by Forbes with 75,893,000 sales – she wants her songs back.

You probably heard about the big SLADE bust up when guitarist DAVE HILL sacked his friend of 57 years and band drummer DON POWELL via e-mail. But another drummer made the headlines Stateside when long time AEROSMITH sticks man JOEY KRAMER took the group to court after they refused to let him perform with them at the Grammys as he has been on ‘injury leave’ for a year – he lost the case. Meanwhile the rock legends did a medley of hits which included RUN DMC joining them on stage for their 1985 collaboration Walk This Way. After the performance, AEROSMITH announced European tour dates including the Glastonbury Festival on June 27 – even though they are not yet confirmed.

Glastonbury rumour: at the time of writing the third main headliner was still to be named but US rapper KENDRICK LAMAR has announced tour dates in the UK this summer – so tongues have started wagging.

PEARL JAM

NADINE COYLE hoped a spell in the I'm A Celebrity jungle would boost her music career but… she has now signed up to appear at the week-long St Patrick Day events for the Bongo Bingo group handing out prizes and singing GIRLS ALOUD songs in several northern English venues. Not exactly a step forward but she will pocket a ‘generous’ fee.

ADAM LAMBERT releases his new album, Velvet, on March 20, and in May he goes on the road singing with QUEEN on their Rhapsody Tour which concludes in Madrid on July 7 & 8. There are still tickets left – interested? Go to ticketmaster.es Other expected big selling albums landing this month: PAUL HEATON & JACQUI ABBOTT of BEAUTIFUL SOUTH fame with Manchester Calling and All Visible Objects by MOBY (both March 6), NIALL HORAN

with Heartbreak Weather (13th), A.L.I.C.I.A. by ALICIA KEYS and MORRISSEY with I Am Not a Dog on a Chain (both 20th) while PEARL JAM return with Gigaton (27th).

MADONNA has been in the news cancelling concerts due to "health and injury (knee and hip) issues" and moaning about the curtain coming down on her while she was still singing in London – but her Madgeness didn't mention she was 30 minutes late for the scheduled start and had also been warned in advance by the local council about curfew times. Her tardiness has also got her in trouble Stateside where fans at two venues filed class-action lawsuits against the singer when they were left stranded without public transport after the concert due to her time keeping – only in America eh? e

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w THE TRENDreading

TOP READS

TO DEVOUR IN MARCH We suggest a few page-turners for one of the few months of the year in which Spring showers can keep you inside. So it’s cold outside? Don’t worry; cuddle up with one of these best-sellers.

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

DAISY JONES & THE SIX BY TAYLOR JENKINS REID

This book is about to be made into a series so if you wish to approach the story in an unsullied form, do so now! The book follows a fictional rock band from the 1970s, through their early beginnings to their achievement of legendary status. It explores the ins and outs of fame and helps us understand why such a successful band might suddenly decide to call it quits.

SUCH A FUN AGE

BY KILEY REID

A sophisticated read touching on difficult subjects like interracial relations, privilege, and anxiety.

Emira is a 25-year-old African American who has been hired to babysit Briar – the three-year-old daughter of a wealthy couple. A chance encounter with a bystander at a local supermarket reveals information Emira never knew about her employers – above all, the racist past of Briar’s mother.

The book delves into ‘the white pursuit of wokeness’, with two white protagonists who use their AfricanAmerican friend/nanny to prove their racial virtue. As it turns out, nobody is as innocent as they seem.

THE LAST WISH BY ANDRZEJ SAPKOWSKI

This is the first of two collections of short stories that come before the main Witcher Saga, also written by Sapkowski. It comprises six short stories which alternate with a main story, that of Geralt of Riva, who has been injured in a battle and who is recovering in a temple. During this time, flashbacks reveal amazing experiences, fearsome beasts, and beautiful women he has shared his bed with.

MIDNIGHT IN CHERNOBYL BY ADAM HIGGINBOTHAM

This top-notch historical narrative is action-packed, fast-paced, and engrossing from the first page. It documents one of the biggest nuclear disasters in the world, highlighting the many missteps of the response to the disaster and the effect it had on young and old alike. Inept Communist party leaders, hapless engineers, and confused victims protagonise a world event that should never have reached epic proportions or taken so many lives.

THE WIVES

BY TARRYN FISHER

A suspense novel that will have you up all night, racing to resolve the big mystery at its heart. This book tells the story of Thursday, whose husband Seth has two additional spouses. She agrees to this odd arrangement because she is passionately in love with him, but one day she finds something so incredibly shocking that it shakes the very foundations of her relationship. It also leads her on a wild goose chase to find out the reasons her husband has been deceiving her for so long. e

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w THE TRENDwhat’s cool

? l o o c s ’ t wha LAS WORDS MARISA CUTIL

WHAT THE FOC! 2020

from across the globe Approximately 20 chefs second edition of the in t will be taking par l, which takes place tiva the What the Foc! Fes c de la Torrassa Par at 15 and 14 rch on Ma is catered to l tiva fes The et. ital in L’Hosp se who know that tho and res fi lovers of wood . art te ica barbecuing is an intr at c.c tfo w.w i ww

HT MOZART BY CANDLELIG 15, head to Casa

rch If you’re in Seville on Ma nderful candlelit de Salinas at 7pm for a wo ing music by the tur Mozart performance. Fea gramme includes Totem Ensemble – the pro endel’s Lascia Ha Pachelbel’s Canon, pieces by Chio Pianga, and various .com Mozart. i www.feverup

LE PIR ATES LAND IN SE VILand sea adventures, why not consider a day trip If your kids are into pirates ion Piratas. Los Ladrones del Mar, featuring ibit teristic of a specially to Sevilla, to catch the exh toms, and fashions charac displays of the history, cus event is on at the Pabellón de la Navegación exciting era in history? The aslaexposicion.com until April 19. i www.pirat

FICE OPENS IN DUBAI li extends its obi NE W PAGANI BR AND OF nufacturer Pagani Autom

Italian luxury hypercar ma t, with the New Brand Office in Dubai. It is the presence in the Middle Eas in the region and offers an immersive brand first personalisation studio is located in the Dubai Design District, home ce experience. The swish offi , designers and luxury brands. ies pan com ech hi-t g din to lea i www.pagani.com

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NATIONAL SHOWJUMPING CHAMPIONSHIPS AT SANTA MARÍA EQUESTRIAN CLUB The elegant Santa María Equestrian Club formed the perfect backdrop to the prestigious National Showjumping Championships. Around 90 competitors took part in the event, which was as exciting as it was fun. i www.santamariaequestrianclub.com

SUSTAINABLE DREAMING FOR ESENCIA MATARROMERA

Bodega Matarromera is excited about its newest project: the total renovation of its installations, with a view to adapting to the future in a sustainable way.

The works will involve a €10 million investment and will feature a total replacement of floors, ceilings, electric installations and more. Energy costs will be reduced and a sophisticated data analysis system will be set up to ensure improved sustainability. i www.matarromera.es

CLEAN SEAS WITH THE FUERTE GROUP

The Fuerte Group is known for its major commitment to sustainability but it recently upped the ante just a little by signing up for the Proyecto Mares Limpios (The Clean Seas Project). The plan involved collaborating with Ibiza Preservation, working to eliminate the use of plastics, supporting Aula del Mar de Málaga and more. i www.fuerte-group.com

SANTA CATALINA, A ROYAL HIDEAWAY DEEMED BEST LUXURY HISTORICAL HOTEL IN EUROPE

Santa Catalina is a stunning Royal Hideaway Hotel ensconced in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The Hotel, which recently celebrated its 130th anniversary, has won two prestigious prizes at the World Luxury Travel Awards: Best Luxury Historical hotel in Europe and Best Luxury Cultural Hotel in Southern Europe. i www.barcelo.com

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ONLINE SHOP shop.laskasas.com

Av. Playas Del Duque, EdiďŹ cio Malaga Local 1 B & C - Puerto Banus 29660 Marbella +34682116509 - marbella@laskasas.com

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INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART DESIGN GARDENS FASHION

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A Luxurious Villa in La Quinta Auxiliary Furniture Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2020 Collection Jewellery Boxes with Flair

WE STEP INTO A HOME MADE FOR STYLISH LIVING IN LA QUINTA, CHECK OUT CUTE AUXILIARY FURNITURE PIECES, AND DON THE LATEST FASHIONS BY TOMMY HILFIGER – A BRAND THAT HAS CAPTURED THE ESSENCE OF CASUAL/SPORTY CHIC!

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Marbella Club Hills show flat

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S H O W R O O M M A R B E L L A - A V D A . B LV. P R Í N C I P E A L F O N S O D E H O H E N L O H E . U R B . C A R O L I N A P A R K Opening hours Mon-Fri: 10:00-19:00 Sat: upon appointment T. + 3 4 9 5 1 9 1 9 0 9 2 - M . + 3 4 6 2 6 9 1 8 3 9 2 w w w. a a l t o e x c l u s i v e d e s i g n . c o m

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A HOME g n MADE FOR i y o j n E

Apart from being chic and comfortable, a home should also be designed for the enjoyment of its occupants and their guests. It is the ultimate expression of lifestyle, after all, and if you combine these elements with views of the Mediterranean in a peaceful part of La Quinta, the result is this stylish villa. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY CHARLY SIMON

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Intimate comfort and style indoors and outdoors A modern water feature with classical overtones

Elegance and flair come together in the living room

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his elegant villa is just how you’d want a Marbella home to be: set upon a gentle rise with views of the sea and La Concha Mountain. The address is a peaceful, leafy street that offers privacy while being within walking distance of the local golf club and five-star hotel, with their restaurants, spa and other facilities. The driving range and concierge services of La Quinta are similarly on your doorstep, while a short drive will take you into San Pedro Alcántara, Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía and Marbella town.

For all that, this home feels like a private oasis of good taste, comfort and homely joys. It exudes a sense of wellbeing that no doubt derives from the passion with which it has been created, for this is a property that blends contemporary luxury and amenities with elements of classical architecture and décor. “It is a home designed to be enjoyed to the full while also offering refinement,” say the owners, who love the process of tweaking a property and bringing out the best in it. “We have done this with our homes before, and used the knowledge gained in the process.”

Every homeowner will tell you it is a learning experience, a skill honed over time that teaches you important lessons about style, space, light and the distribution of living areas. “We bring northern European elements into the design trying not to impose upon the local natural and cultural setting, but to be inspired by it.” Inspired they were, as the property has been transformed into a villa that is pleasing to the eye, welcoming and homely, as well as the ideal place to relax and entertain.

For this reason, it is spacious yet cosy, and comes with many lifestyle conveniences.

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Luxury Interiors – Interior Architecture – Refurbishment & Turn-Key Experts – 3D Renderings – Project Management

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BALANCING ARCHITECTURE AND DÉCOR A home is in harmony when its exterior and interior styling are balanced and complement one another.

This seems self-evident, but it is not always the case. However, it is a feature that stands out in this property, reflecting a lovingly respectful division of labour between husband and wife, who take responsibility for the exterior architecture and interior décor respectively. “For us both are equally important, and together they make a villa beautiful and give it soul, and these are the building blocks for the kind of place you love to spend time in.”

The entrance to the property reveals an attractive courtyard that leads to the front door.

It provides a pleasing buffer between street and home that acts successfully as a reception point for parties and truly comes to life with ambient lighting and a modern water feature in the evenings. Inside, the villa is contemporary with warm, soft-toned classical touches of inspiration.

The furniture reflects a knowing eye for combining luxury and comfort with statement pieces, in the process creating a living environment that is refined yet cozy.

Each room is spacious, intimate and endowed with natural light and views, with the living room flowing into a state-of-the-art kitchen, both of which open up to a terrace overlooking a large pool deck surrounded by the kind of amenities of which unforgettable Marbella summers are made.

This means the swimming pool is flanked by a hot tub, loungers, a stylishly comfortable chill-out area and a beautiful Balinese sunbed complete with curtains, behind which to retreat in complete languid privacy.

The impeccable yet intimate living room

Beautiful finishing and ambient lighting throughout

This La Quinta villa blends the best of modern style and comfort with classical touches

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LIFESTYLE LIVING What comes to mind is a sumptous living, and indeed, this villa is not only attractive, comfortable and luxurious, but it provides the perfect setting for the enjoyment of the kind of lifestyle that Marbella is made for. The master suite and two bedrooms on the upper floor are well-proportioned and dreamy, with fine quality beds, rugs and linen, lots of closet space and elegantly appointed bathrooms each in their own style and configuration. They open up to their own colonnaded terrace where you’ll want to relax and enjoy the sun.

The lower floor is connected to its own English patio, which leads up to the main garden and pool area, so natural light flows into every room. It contains a further two bedroom suites, a cosy TV room and office with preinstallation for a professional bar, as well as a gym with natural light and direct access to the garden. A double garage fronts one of two carports on the property, both of which offer convenient access to the house. In this, it is a villa in which aesthetics and functionally are well matched, but above all the home stands out for its balance, style and modus vivendi.

The comfy TV room

The outdoor area is made for enjoyment

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A sunny master bedroom suite with sea views and inviting outdoor area

A central element in this is the indoor-outdoor continuation of the property, where the ground floor living areas open up to a terrace and pool deck that is also connected to a delightful thatched roof cabaĂąa that is the icing on the cake of this fine home. As everywhere throughout the villa, style and proportion are immaculate, and this wonderful feature offers a comfortable lounge area, professional kitchen and gorgeous wooden dining table that welcomes intimate groups and large parties with equal aplomb.

It is a delightful space two steps from the main house and garden that really opens the house up to the Marbella way of life, made as it is for relaxing, socialising and entertaining on a larger scale. It underlines the fact that this tastefully styled, proportioned, fitted and decorated villa is the ideal home in which to enjoy the good things in life and the outdoor time that this part of the world makes possible for most of the year. It also proves that this can be done with superb comfort and in the finest fashion.

The best of modern functionality

g DIANA MORALES PROPERTIES | KNIGHT FRANK Tel: (+34) 952 765 138. info@dmproperties.com www.dmproperties.com

Each of the 5 bathrooms has its own style and ambience

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ARTHUR OTTOMAN BY SWEETPEA & WILLOW

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AUXILIARY FURNITURE THAT PLAYS A STARRING ROLE

Storage boxes, nightstands, and toy furniture items come in such a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and finishes that, these days, they are likely to be the real star of the show. Check out some of these luxury items to see what we’re on about. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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i BOCA DO LOBO www.bocadolobo.com CIRCU www.circu.net MUSTARD www.mustardmade.com RED CANDY www.redcandy.co.uk SWEETPEA & WILLOW www.sweatpeaandwillow.com THE FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY www.thefrenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

SOHO BLACK VELVET OTTOMAN BY THE FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY

IGHTS

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SKINNY HOME VINTAGE LOCKER IN NAVY BY MUSTARD

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Projects: Penthouse H & Villa M

Interior Design & Property Development blackshawinteriordesign.com

Showroom: Avenida Canovas del Castillo 25, Marbella

+34 951 403 787

d THE STYLEfashion

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SHIPS AHOY WITH

TOMMY HILFIGER SPRING 2020

If you’ve just about had it with coats, socks, and boots, say hello to the Spring season – and in particular, to this appealing nautical collection by Tommy Hilfiger. From elegant suits to laidback denim, the designs are ideal for those into classic casual ensembles.

The Tommy Hilfiger brand is available at El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús and at the Tommy Hilfiger store at La Cañada.

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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SMOOTH AS SILK

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READY TO WORK IT ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM MARCH 2020 / 111

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DYNAMIC DENIM i www.tommy.com

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BOXES TO CHERISH

If diamonds are your best friend, prove yourself worthy of their sparkle by taking the very best possible care of them. Find your inspiration in these fashionable boxes, built to make storing (and finding) your perfect piece a breeze. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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1 – ALIISA WOODEN JEWELLERY BOX BY RED CANDY A MINI-CHEST OF DRAWERS MADE TO STORE YOUR EARRINGS, NECKLACES, AND BRACELETS 2 – RABAT ROUND BRASS JEWELLERY BOX BY ARTISANTI AN ANTIQUE BOX THAT DRIPS WITH LUXURIOUS EASTERN DESIGN AND BOASTS INTRICATE ETCHED DETAILING 3 – ARLA AGED BRASS AND GLASS COMPARTMENT JEWELLERY BOX BY ARTISANTI A MODERN STORAGE SOLUTION THAT OFFERS FULL VISIBILITY OF ALL YOUR ITEMS 4 – MINI JEWELLERY BOX IN ROYAL EBONY MACASSAR BY IWOODESIGN MADE IN A RARE WOOD THAT BOASTS A STUNNING TWO-TONED PATTERN 5– MINI JEWELLERY BOX IN STERLING GREY BY IWOODESIGN A LUXURY BOX HANDCRAFTED IN FIGURED EUCALYPTUS, BOASTING A SHIMMERY GRAINED PATTERN 6 – HORN AND LACQUER WOODEN JEWELLERY BOX BY L’ATELIER NATALIA WILLMOTT A HAND-LACQUERED BOX THAT STUNS WITH ITS FLAT DESIGN i ARTISANTI www.artisanti.com iWOODESIGN www.iwoodesign.com L’ATELIER NATALIA WILLMOTT www.nataliawillmott.co.uk RED CANDY www.redcandy.co.uk

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MC Retreats

Exhaustion · Tackling the Energy Crisis 25th to 29th March

FOOD FOR BEAUTY · For an inner and outer glow · 13-17 MAY / 9 - 13 DEC LIVER REBOOT · An action plan for a healthy immune system · 23-27 SEPTEMBER BODY BALANCE · Bringing your body full circle · 14-18 OCTOBER AGEING GENTLY · Preventative tips for optimum state of wellbeing · 25-29 NOVEMBER For more informarion about our complete 2020 Wellness Retreat Programme, please contact: wellness@marbellaclub.com

MARBELLA CLUB Bu le va r Pr ín c ip e A l f o n s o v o n Ho h e n l o h e , s /n , 2 9 6 0 2 , Ma r b e l l a , Má l a g a , S p a i n Te le p h o n e ( + 3 4 ) 9 5 2 8 2 2 2 1 1 m a r b e l l a c l u b w e l l n e s s . c o m

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PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA SCIENCE TREATMENTS HEALTH

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Top Videos on Beauty Body Shimmers Hypertension Health Matters

DISCOVER OUR LIST OF MUST-SEE BEAUTY VIDEOS, DECK YOUR BODY OUT IN SHIMMERY GLITTER, AND FIND OUT HOW TO NIP HYPERTENSION IN THE BUD WITH A REVOLUTIONARY NEW PATCH.

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Dr. K. Kaye / Director

ZURICH - MARBELLA - MADRID

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

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CH T A W O T D E YOU NE

Beauty influencers have become the most important names in the industry, with artists such as Lipsticknick, Nikkie de Jager, and Jackie Aina showing us the power of transformation.

Those who consider makeup an art that is reachable and achievable by anyone are loyal as can be to their favourite influencers, following them on numerous social media accounts and forming an interest in their lives, leisure activities, and even their love lives! I have to admit that my YouTube account is strongly dominated by beauty bloggers, many of whom I have been following for over five years. I have therefore compiled a curated list of videos that will show newcomers to makeup why beauty is such an addictive business! WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Nikkie de Jager is the absolute queen of transformation, her looks always being ultra-polished, tantamount to a masterpiece you might find at a gallery.

However, since she has been around so long, she has amassed a fascinating arsenal of videos, some of which are truly hilarious. One of the best is Doing My Makeup Alone in a Haunted Forest.

Dressed in black, she creates a spinetingling witch make up look all alone in the middle of a dark forest famed for being haunted. If you love horror films, then this is one you will delight in. Weird things happen too; she begins to hear gunshots and immediately calls for rescue help!

channel features a host of products that are great to combat oiliness, but what gives her the most value in my view is that she focuses not just on products, but also on techniques and tips (think an Australian Tati Westbrook without the drama and ‘me me me’ touches).

She has not one but two ultra-important videos if you have oily skin: one is Life Changing Foundation Trick for Oily Skin!

Stop Your Makeup Getting Shiny, and the other is How to Stop Oily Skin! The Number One Oily Skin Trick You Need to Know. You may be surprised to learn that keeping makeup flawless when you have large pores and oily skin is quite complex and involves many steps, including the application of powder and setting spray prior to your foundation!

2 – NIKKIA JOY BATTLES OILY SKIN

3 – BRETMAN ROCK IS ACTUALLY KIND

This gorgeous Aussie is the Goddess of Oily Skinned Gals and Guys. Her

Filipino/Hawaiian beauty expert Bretman Rock is one of the hottest

1 – NIKKIE DE JAGER TAKES ON A SCARY FOREST

young faces in the industry but he is also highly comedic. His diva attitude is to-die-for and his ‘fights’ with his sister Princess are some of the oddest displays of brotherly-sisterly love you might find on the Internet. Bretman showed he had a heart as big as his mouth in the video Giving My Mom a Birthday Makeover. If you have watched Bretman for some time, then you know that much of his earnings go to helping his family enjoy the good life – which shows that despite his antics, he is a traditional family-loving Pinoy at heart.

4 – JOHN MACLEAN GOES FOR A PORCELAIN LOOK

Known by fans as ‘the Lord’, John Maclean is hands-down one of my top three beauty channels. The elegant and stately artist posts little, but when he does, I click so fast my return button needs replacement. Anything and

everything he posts is gold. His tone is upper-crust British and he likes to increase his syllables, pronouncing words like film as ‘filum’. I loved his video The Palest Shade, which shows how truly light foundation needs to be to match his alabaster skin. All hail the Lord, may he light up our lives with more videos in 2020!

5 – JULIA ADAMS SHOWS US WHAT MAKEUP ARTISTRY IS REALLY LIKE

I recently enjoyed Julia Adams MUA’s review of Anastasia Beverly Hills’ new Amrezy X ABH palette. Like most of her other videos, she creates three entire looks, which is very generous and painstaking, considering that most influencers post just one look. This influencer is big on high-end brands like Pat McGrath, but she isn’t shy to use more affordable items by Colourpop, Glossier, and Urban Decay. e

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beauty THE SPA n

One look that was huge in 2019 and will continue to dominate in 2020, is bling. Sparkles and glitter will be present in everything from top-selling palettes to highlighters and body powders. When it comes to the latter, there are two key features to look out for: optimal shine, and long lasting power. These are our top picks for the year.

TOP BODY GLITTER

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1 – URBAN DECAY NAKED ILLUMINATED SHIMMERING POWDER: A very subtle

shimmer that looks great when applied to the ball of your shoulders and your clavicle area.

Apply a body oil or lotion underneath to make sure the shimmer stays on all night. 2 – FENTY BEAUTY DIAMOND BOMB: A gorgeous product with an incredible sparkle. Made for use on the face or body as desired.

3 – BARRY M COSMETICS GLITTER RUSH: This loose glitter can be applied subtly or liberally, over a glitter glue for ultra-lasting effect.

4 – NUXE HUILE PRODIGIEUSE OR: A light, shimmery oil with tiny golden sparkles. e

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TARTE RAINFOREST OF THE SEA SHIMMER BODY GEL: A

luminising gel formula that adds a beautiful sheen to your face and body, without leaving an oily residue.

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MAKE YOUR

SKIN& SUMMER READY

GET A FREE

MANICURE

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HYDRA F CIAL This treatment is centred on profound pore cleansing and resurfacing, thanks to a special machine with power ful suction and exfoliation properties. The ingredients used block melanin production, making it an ideal treatment year-round for those battling hyperpigmentation. In four simple steps, a new layer of skin arises. Pores are completely cleaned of debris, and skin is infused with antioxidants, gentle glycolic and salicylic acids and peptides to maximise your glow.

This is a good choice for people with clogged pores, sun damaged skin, troublesome acneprone skin, and dull and tired skin. It is suitable for all skin types.

The Clinic is also home to two FDA-approved Zeltiq (CoolSculpting) machines, which provide similar results to those obtained by liposuction, despite the treatment being totally non-invasive and requiring no downtime at all. In fact, patients can freely visit Cirumed for this treatment while on their lunch break, checking out their emails or messaging friends while fat is frozen away from a number of areas – including the back, waist, arms, and even the double chin!

Lasers, microneedling, and peeling treatments are just a few approaches that can lend skin a smooth, youthful, firm appearance.

If you feel like it is time to transform into your best self, know that Cirumed can help you get there in a completely safe and non-invasive way.

Cirumed is, in every sense of the word, a one stop clinic for all your beauty needs, both surgical and non surgical

The staff are always on-hand to suggest useful approaches for any issue you might be targeting. From tiredness to acne scarring, stubborn fat to expression lines, they are in possession of the training, technology, and experience to recommend a specific treatment.

952 775 346

CIRUMED CLINIC - EDIFICIO PANORAMA PLANTA BAJA LOCAL 2 CTRA. CĂ DIZ KM 184 - 29603 MARBELLA

www.cirumed.es contact@cirumed.es

n THE SPAhealth

TWO TYPES OF HYPERTENSION

When there is no underlying cause for disease, hypertension is classed as primary (or essential) hypertension. When it is caused by problems such as kidney, thyroid, or adrenal gland problems, it is called secondary hypertension. The latter occurs suddenly and it can cause pressure to spike higher than is the case with primary hypertension.

Sometimes, the cause is medication or illegal drugs such as cocaine.

HYPERTENSION

A COMMON CONDITION WITH MASKED SYMPTOMS

Hypertension affects 42.6 per cent of the adult population in Spain and it is far more common in men (49.9 per cent) than women (37.1 per cent) – as per a study by E. Menéndez published in the journal Revista Española de Cardiología. Despite being so prevalent, it is a condition that can go unnoticed, because it often does not produce any symptoms. It occurs when the long-term force of blood against your artery walls is high enough to potentially lead to problems such as heart attack and stroke. Doctors generally recommend that you have a blood pressure reading every couple of years from adulthood onwards, though if you are having your annual medical check-up then your doctor will take a reading during your visit. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS WHAT ARE RISK FACTORS FOR HYPERTENSION?

GUM DISEASE AND HYPERTENSION

The risk factors for hypertension include advanced age, having a family history, being overweight or obese, smoking, consuming a high-sodium (or low potassium) diet, and having chronic kidney disease. Until the age of 64, men are more likely than women to have high blood pressure. From the age of 65 and up, though, more women are a target. If you have these factors, more frequent checks may be necessary.

A recent study published by the European Society of Cardiology has found that people with gum disease (periodontitis) have a higher risk of hypertension than those with healthy gums. "Hypertension could be the driver of heart attack and stroke in patients with periodontitis," said researcher Francesco D'Aiuto, Professor of Periodontology at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute and Hospital. "Previous studies suggest a connection between periodontitis and hypertension and that dental treatment might improve blood pressure, but to date the findings are inconclusive." Moderate to severe gum disease raises the risk of hypertension by 22 per cent, while severe gum disease is linked to 49 per cent higher odds of high blood pressure.

Therefore, seeing your dentist regularly and taking good care of your oral health can be seen as an important step to promoting better heart health.

LIFESTYLE CHOICES To a great extent, secondary hypertension can be prevented because it can be triggered by specific lifestyle choices. These include leading a sedentary lifestyle, consuming an unhealthy diet (especially one that is too high in salt, trans fat, and sugar), carrying excess weight, and drinking too much alcohol. Chronic stress, smoking, and high cholesterol can also up your chances of hypertension, as can having sleep apnea. In all these cases, seeking help and embarking upon a newer, healthier road to lower blood pressure can be achieved alongside your doctor.

A NEW HERBAL HYPERTENSION PATCH COMES TO THE RESCUE If you have hypertension, speak to your doctor about new advances such as the Herbal Transdermal Hypertension Patch (www. hypertensionpatch.com). This handy ‘sticker’ lowers your blood pressure within 20 minutes of application and, according to its manufacturers, it “outperforms even the most potent pills.” The patch is made of ingredients such as bamboo vinegar, sword-leaf dogbane (a traditional antihypertension and anti-anxiety agent), jue ming zi, and gastrodia elata. These ingredients may sound rather exotic and in fact, they have been used in traditional medicine for many years. Their combined effect, say the patch makers, includes a normalised blood pressure and heart rate, increased oxygen flow to the brain, and fatigue alleviation. As is the case with all medications or patches, seeing your doctor beforehand to ensure compatibility with your condition or needs is recommended. e

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Always on top of my health with...

THE INTERNATIONAL CENTER OF EXPERTISE FOR CARDIO-VASCULAR DIAGNOSTICS AND THERAPY IN MARBELLA Expert Team of Internationally Trained Doctors

Latest high tech equipment includes the newest Siemens hemodynamic cath lab for cardio-vascular interventions: coronary and peripheral artery stenting procedures, pacemaker insertion, interventional, non-surgical heart valve repair TAVI (newest European cardiology guidelines), 3D Cardiac Ultrasound, various dynamic stress test procedures, advanced arrhythmia diagnostics, cardiac CT and MRI

Co-located at HC-international Hospital Marbella, CardioCare benefits from the unique high standard hospital infrastructure offered.

At CardioCare we believe in solutions Whether you are a cardiac patient or looking for an extensive cardio-vascular check-up, we don’t just find the problem, we also give you the solution.

Calle Ventura del Mar 11, 29660 Marbella • Tel.: +34 677759003 www.cardiocaremarbella.com • info@cardiocaremarbella.com

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n THE SPAhealth COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

A CHILD’S FIRST FLU

DETERMINES THEIR RESPONSE TO LATER INFECTIONS Have you ever wondered why some people are better able to avoid succumbing to colds and flus than others? The answer is linked to the first flu strain they encountered in their childhood. Scientists at UCLA found that a person’s ability to fight the flu virus is determined not only by the subtypes of flu they have been exposed to throughout their lifetime, but also to the sequence of these different infections. The researchers hope that their findings can help create a strategy that will boost immunity in the long-term.

PARENTESE BOOSTS

LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT IN BABIES

SITTING STILL IS LINKED TO

DEPRESSION IN TEENS

If you are a parent to a happy teen, keep them that way by ensuring they get plenty of exercise!

A University College London study has found that sitting still for too long is linked to a higher risk of depression in adolescents. Lead researcher, Dr. Aaron Kandola explained: “Our findings show that young people who are inactive for large proportions of the day throughout adolescence face a greater risk of depression by age 18. It’s not just more intense forms of activity that are good for our mental health, but any degree of physical activity that can reduce the time we spend sitting down.” For optimal results, try to mix cardiovascular and strength workouts. The energy and confidence they bestow is something that many teens can certainly avail of.

If you every ‘goo goo ga gahd’ at your baby or spoke with exaggerated voice tones and body language, chances are, you’ve done your little one a great favour! Research undertaken at the University of Washington has found that this conversational style – known as ‘parentese’, enhances a child’s later language skills.

Scientists believe that the secret behind its success is its simplicity. “We now think parentese works because it’s a social hook for the baby brain – its high pitch and slower tempo are socially engaging and invite the baby to respond,” they said.

There is a known link between exercise and staving off Parkinson’s disease and a recent study by Swedish researchers (on skiers) showed that being physically active can help reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s by almost 30 per cent! “Individuals who are physically welltrained have a greater motor reserve, which for every given level of Parkinson’s brain damage would result in less motor symptoms, thus delaying the diagnosis of PD,” stated lead researchers, Dr. Tomas Deierborg. Sounds like a great reason to hit the slopes in the winter season!

ACTIVE SKIERS

LESS LIKELY TO DEVELOP PARKINSON’S

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SOLVILLA HOLDS MULTIPLE OPEN HOUSES

Sovilla held not one, but three open houses recently, showing off the splendour of luxury living on the Coast.

Aloha 144, Anamaya Villa 5, and Casa Hedera Sierra Blanca each wield their own brand of magic; which most appeals to you? i www.solvilla.no

“For us, home isn’t a place. It is a person. And we are finally home” – Herman Hesse

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THE ROCK PARTY AT PUENTE ROMANO

The Puente Romano Hotel recently celebrated a party whose star ingredient was rock music. Guests dressed up in their coolest rockstar gear and partied the night away beneath the stars. i www.puenteromano.com

Stairway to Heaven. Highway to Hell. It’s Only Rock ’N’ Roll But I Like It.

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s y a d i l o H r e t s Ea

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12 and up.

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COOKING SHOW AT LOS NARANJOS GOLF

The exclusive Los Naranjos Golf Club recently invited a select group of guests to a wonderful cooking show featuring renowned chefs, Álvaro Ávila (from Alvaroteca) and Pablo Caballero (of Antxoeta). Everyone enjoyed magnificent food as well as a wine pairing featuring wines from Bodega Malvajio in Mijas. i www.losnaranjos.com

“Cooking is an expression that crosses boundaries” – Anonymous

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II VOVEM MEAT & WINE JORNADAS GASTRONÓMICAS

Vovem recently celebrated the second annual Meat & Wine festival – a three-day event featuring amazing beef and oxen dishes prepared by top international chefs. The festival also featured talks and recommendations, making it the perfect place for chefs, journalists, and lovers of fine gastronomy to get together and share ideas. i www.vovemasador.com

“The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook” – Julia Child

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L THE SOCIAL pets

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

TEST MAY HELP DECREASE YEARLY PET VACCINES

PET CARE CAN HELP KIDS WITH DIABETES

MONITOR THEIR DISEASE

A study by researchers at the UT Southwestern Medical Center has found that including routinary pet care into a child’s diabetes self-care plan can significantly improve monitoring of the disease, resulting in improved blood glucose levels. In the study, participating teens were asked to test their glucose each time they fed their pet fish (in the morning and in the evening). They were also asked to check their glucose alongside a caregiver once a week. The results showed that after three months, those who followed this routine saw a 0.5 per cent decrease in their haemoglobin A1C levels compared to members of a control group who saw their levels rise by 0.8 per cent!

IS YOUR DOG ANGRY? SEEK HELP FROM YOUR VET

Scientists at Kansas State University are working on a test that measures a pet’s immune response to the rabies virus – a change that may help reduce the costs and possible sideeffects associated with yearly vaccines. Essentially, the scientists used a titer test which, when giving a result of 0.5 international units per ml or more, indicates an animal is protected, and may simply need a booster if bitten or otherwise exposed to rabies. The researchers did state that all pets should be vaccinated at an early age, since those that have never been vaccinated and exposed to rabies have very limited options (including euthanasia or a sixmonth quarantine).

HUMANS’ ABILITY TO READ DOGS’

FACIAL EXPRESSIONS IS LEARNED Humans are incredibly apt at reading their pet dog’s facial expressions, but new research undertaken at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History shows that this ability is not innate. Rather, humans hone this skill by living in close proximity to dogs and taking an interest in four-pawed critters (even if they do not live in the same home as a dog). Lead researcher, F. Amici, stated that “These results are noteworthy because they suggest that it is not necessarily direct experience with dogs that affects humans’ ability to recognise their emotions, but rather the cultural milieu in which humans develop.”

ARE YOU A CAT WHISPERER?

Women and individuals with veterinary experience are better at recognising cats’ expressions, according to recent research by scientists at the University of Guelph.

The study, which involved over 6,300 participants from 85 countries, showed that most people scored 12 out of 20 in a test on feline expressions. However, 13 per cent performed particularly well, forming part of a group the scientists called ‘cat whisperers’. They excel at deciphering the myriad of subtle expressions that indicate feline mood and state of being.

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Meet the Sales Team behind the Scandinavian Magazines

Henrik Andersen T: 670 63 57 86

Mugge Fischer T: 650 32 40 12

Louise Mercedes T: 952 58 15 53

Sara Laine T: 600 83 83 99

Contact one of us and we will explain the most cost effective gateway to the Scandinavian market

With us you reach 75.000 Scandinavians in Southern Spain with a monthly circulation of 31.000 copies. At Norrbom Marketing we are always doing our utmost to give you and the readers the best experience. Today, just like we did 30 years ago, when the first magazine was published.

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ñz the pro

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROPERTY FINANCE LAW

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Janus Nielsen of Anytech365 Anamaya Villas Enterprise Brexit: What to Expect BinckBank and Saxo Bank: The Future of Investment 100% Green Energy from Mariposa Energía

THERE IS SO MUCH HAPPENING ON THE LOCAL BUSINESS SCENE. WE INTERVIEW HIGH-FLYING ENTREPRENEUR JANUS NIELSEN, ENJOY THE STUNNING VIEW FROM ANAMAYA VILLAS, AND FIND OUT WHAT TO EXPECT FROM BREXIT. WE ALSO PROFILE TWO VISIONARY BUSINESSES: BINCKBANK AND MARIPOSA ENERGÍA.

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MARCH 30TH - APRIL 5TH 2020

- The fastest growing IT company in Spain Source:

Janus Nielsen, founder of AnyTech365

z THE PRO people

ANYTECH365

COSTA DEL SOL TECH In an area dominated so strongly by tourism and real estate, AnyTech365 is a shining light of technological expertise and economic diversification. What’s more, it’s Spain’s fastest-growing technology company, and most people on the Costa del Sol don’t even know it exists. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANYTECH365

W

e’re so focused on tourism and property development on the Costa del Sol that we sometimes forget anything else exists, yet as this region and its resort towns evolve, they will have to begin to create a broader economic base that generates growth, prosperity, and job opportunities, especially for younger people. While we ponder this question, there are already companies out there doing just that.

AN INTERNATIONAL TECH SERVICE COMPANY ON THE COSTA DEL SOL AnyTech365 is an IoT technical support services company that wasn’t only founded here but has gone on to capture an international market. It services clients across Western Europe, North America and Australia, relying

very little on its home market but creating hundreds of jobs here. The company was founded by Danish-born Janus R. Nielsen, a tech industry expert who settled on the Costa del Sol after selling his successful anti-virus business almost twenty years ago.

“I was feeling a little burnt out after so many years of intense work and moved to enjoy the weather and lifestyle of Marbella, but after a relatively short while I became restless and set up an anti-virus smartphone protection business,” says Janus. “It evolved into the fastest-growing firm of its kind in the world, and I began to realise that as more

and more of the everyday devices that surround us are becoming smart and being connected to the internet, there is a real need for technical support that stretches beyond the basic manufacturer’s guarantee to also encompass an operational and maintenance service for consumers.”

The mostly young service technicians cover 16 languages between them

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AnyTech365 fosters close teamwork in a fun working environment

AnyTech365 is the sponsor of the 2020 ATP Marbella Open Tennis at Puente Romano Tennis Club

TECHNICAL CONSUMER SERVICE Indeed, every year over three billion devices are connected to the internet around the world, and with everything from phones and televisions to fridges and entire homes or even cars becoming smart in this way, the need for fast and effective consumer support is growing each day. “In the electrical era you simply plugged in an appliance and it worked, in the electronic era it was installed and voila, but today’s equipment needs to be configured and connected to the Internet and your other devices, so it can be optimally used and controlled. This is complicated for a lot of people, and when something goes wrong, they need someone to help them sort it out.”

Not everyone is sufficiently tech-savvy to do this all for themselves, so AnyTech365 offers direct access to technicians who will install, upgrade your devices, and also analyse and fix any problems for you. What’s more, it is done remotely, so there’s no need to make appointments and be at home while someone comes to fix your gadgets. This is especially convenient for people who own properties here but live elsewhere, and AnyTech365 commits itself to a full 24-hour, seven days a week, year-round service in currently 16 languages. “This is how we can provide customer support to so many different countries and time zones,” says Janus. “We’re even open throughout Christmas and New Year’s Eve, because technical questions and problems can arise at any time.”

A RUNAWAY SUCCESS As a result, the company employs multinational staff at its centres in Marbella and Torremolinos who can attend to people in their native

tongue, be it English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, Dutch or the Scandinavian languages. The firm reported as being the fastest-growing tech business in Spain also has further plans for expansion, including a new office in Fuengirola and a recently opened centre in Casablanca’s tech centre, where AnyTech365 employs a team of 40 people in Morocco’s number one technology zone.

The demand is clearly there, with AnyTech365 providing a free one-hour health-check to thousands of callers every day, and having over 70,000 subscribers to its service packages, which beside year-round tech support include remote installation, updating and virus protection for their customers computers, tablets, smartphones and other devices. “In a fast-growing and increasingly regulated technical support sector, we pride ourselves on offering the best customer service and technical expertise, as well as being fully compliant and certified. We hire talented people with experience and proven credentials, recruit from universities and technical colleges, and have our own learning centre, which provides training and upgrade courses.”

AnyTech365 recently became the first company in its field in the world to receive full technical certification by AppEsteem, a regulator for the IT support and App sector, and has now also acquired Panorama 9, an advanced AI specialist firm in Silicon Valley, California. “There we’re developing the next generation of anti-virus systems that enable us to be proactive in protecting your devices rather than reactive,” says Janus. “Named AnyTech365 IntelliGuard, it will soon be offered as part of our service to provide on-going analytics,

Janus being interviewed

detecting problems before they become serious, reporting and then fixing them.” AnyTech365’s service is already so efficient and effective that the company has signed an agreement to provide technical support for customers of Mediamarkt in Sweden and Spain, where it has 110 stores.

CONNECTING WITH LOCAL ROOTS “Over the past few years the business has grown and evolved so much that we’ve been fully engaged with this, but amid the international expansion we’re also keen to focus on our home area and expand local collaborations,” says Janus.

This year, AnyTech365 is the sponsor of the 2020 ATP Marbella Open Tennis Championship being held at the Puente Romano Tennis Club from 30th March to 5th April.

Gradually, the company will gain recognition as one of the pioneers of technological development and economic growth in our region, offering career opportunities to a diverse and highly motivated team within the vital tech sector that is set to play an ever-growing role not just in Silicon Valley, but on our own doorstep. g Tel: (+34) 951 390 913. info@anytech365.com www.AnyTech365.com

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z THE PROproperty Five unique villas, each one with its own style, detailing and setting but all imbued with the same sense of luxury living inspired by nature. From their hillside stance in Nueva Andalucía, the world spreads out before these stylish contemporary homes: the green carpet of the Golf Valley, the gardens of Marbella and the Mediterranean Sea. All at five minutes from the beach.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SOLVILLA

LUXURY AND STYLE IN HARMONY WITH NATURE AT

S

ANAMAYA VILLAS

et against a gentle incline, the five properties that make up Anamaya Villas form a small, private oasis of greenery and superb taste framed by panoramic views of the Golf Valley and the nearby sea. This is a peaceful spot in leafy residential Nueva Andalucía, but also a convenient location close to Puerto Banús, the centre of Marbella and San Pedro Alcántara.

The southerly perspective along the length of Marbella’s shoreline and beyond to Gibraltar in the distance charts the changing hues of the day as the sun arcs its way through the sky.

It’s an ideal location in which to practise the Marbella art of good living, with all amenities, including schools, shops, dining and golf close to hand. Inside, the villas offer the latest comforts and style, yet these are modern homes whose design is also distinctly inspired by the natural setting that surrounds them. As a result, their architectural styling and interior feel is modern but also warm, welcoming, cosy and tactile.

Natural materials such as noble wood, rough-

hewn stone, ceramics and iron combine with anti-slip tiles, full-length panoramic windows and soft carpets to create a sense of wellbeing built upon a sensory experience.

At Anamaya Villas, modern style and the natural senses come together thanks to the mastery of Argentinian-born architect, Juan Salvador Shvartzberg, whose contribution to

the Marbella landscape includes over 30 years of pioneering private and public projects. “Just as an architect works with light and space to give shape to humankind’s structures, so I also endeavour to create a seamless link with nature, connecting our indoor and outdoor worlds, as it were,” says one of Marbella’s most highly respected designers.

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MARBELLA MODERNITY WITH A NATURAL FEEL Greenery surrounds and divides the villas, which range between 248m2 – 415m2 in interior space on plots of over 1,000m2 that slope gently downwards amid marvellous views of the sea and La Concha Mountain. Each villa has a private driveway that leads to a double garage, but all have a layout and character of their own to suit the lifestyle requirements of each owner. The properties, which have a split-level distribution in classic villa style, also feature a lower level space that can be customised as work or leisure areas, or indeed a combination of both.

State-of-the-art modern kitchens and bathrooms with lovely, sunny views and natural materials create a visual and sensory link with nature, while the open flow of the living spaces continues out onto a large, partly shaded deck overlooking the private swimming pool and landscaped garden. The use of natural stone and wood adds to the tactile nature of the villas, and creates a balance between their modern architectural styles and the surrounding greenery and views. Each room has a role to play in this regard, from the dreamy, pampering feel of the bathrooms and bedroom suites to the sun-soaked sense of wellbeing offered

by the pool deck, where crisp azure water, sand-toned tiles and natural stone walls create a calming, soothing effect in what is also an aesthetically pleasing setting.

MADE FOR THE SENSES These are villas that invite you to make the choice between dining indoors or outdoors, or letting the full-length sliding doors glide open and merge the two stylish living spaces into one large area for relaxation and entertainment. This balance between intimacy and living areas that flow into one another is thanks to a very well thought out distribution, always accompanied by natural light and views that change from room to room, giving each a character and ambience of its own. This is also true of the bedroom suites and the entertainment spaces

within the properties, whose combination of soft carpeting and porcelain floors induce a sense of prestige that pervades Anamaya Villas.

Lacquered and matt woods are the finishing touch to handmade carpentry in these properties with full home automation convenience, opulent comfort and modern sophistication, where great attention has been paid to allowing natural tones and views to add to the living experience they offer.

For the creators of Anamaya Villas, a modern home is all about providing quality of life, and this is reflected in five stylish properties that harness their setting to offer the best of contemporary comfort and luxury, and take the sensory experience to a new level of enjoyment. i www.anamayavillas.com

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enterprise

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

Design elements may be modified for technical reasons

NEW RENDERS FOR HIGUERÓN WEST ‘Live Work Play’ is the fitting motto for Higuerón West, a high quality, innovative and sustainable residential community tucked into a gentle green slope that overlooks the Fuengirola coastline from a peaceful and secluded position. New renders of Phase IX are now available. They show off how cutting edge design and comfort blend together seamlessly in this stunning project. i www.higueronwest.com

‘BOYS VERSUS GIRLS CHALLENGE’ BY BINCKBANK Did you know that apparently women make better investors than men? BinckBank part of Saxo Bank together with Talk Radio Europe have decided to put this concept to the test. Stay tuned for BOYS versus GIRLS Portfolio Talk on TRE every other Monday (started on Monday February 17 at 11.45) when presenters, Giles and Hannah, will take on the challenge of trading their portfolios and explaining why, with the help of their mentor Kaspar Huijsman, Director of BinckBank here in Spain. Will they play nice?

You’ll have to wait and see! The winner of the challenge will receive a donation of €1.000 from BinckBank to a charity of their choice. Hannah will be battling on behalf of AGE Concern and Giles for DEBRA, The Butterfly Children Charity. i You can follow them on air and

keep an eye on their investments at www.binckbank.com/boysversusgirls

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AEDAS HOMES REVOLUTIONISES HOME SALES ON THE COAST AEDAS is moving and shaking things for sales agents, having recently launched a loyalty programme that will offer higher commissions and faster payments, among other benefits. AEDAS is also pleased to announce that it has delivered its first projects on the Coast: South Bay Las Mesas (Phase One, 47 homes) and Vanian Gardens (72 homes in Estepona), the last units of which are now being sold. The first phases of these two projects involved an investment of €40 million. i www.aedashomes.com

ANYTECH365 MARBELLA TENNIS OPEN ATP 80 CHALLENGER AT THE PUENTE ROMANO AnyTech365 Marbella Tennis Open will be taking place from March 30 to April 5 at the Puente Romano Tennis Club. The Sports Counsellor from Marbella’s Town Hall, Manuel Cardeña and the Director of the tournament, Ronnie Leitgeb, addressed the press recently, announcing the first Wild Card of the event, which was given to Holger Rune, a 16-year-old Dutch player who was the Roland Garros Junior 2019 champ. i www.marbellachallenger.com

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z THE PROenterprise VITHAS COSTA DEL SOL AND GENESISCARE NOW BIGGEST PRIVATE ONCOLOGICAL STRUCTURE IN SPAIN Vithas Costa del Sol and GenesisCare have joined forces to offer the largest private cancer treatmentfocused structure in Spain. The agreement between these two institutions will mean that patients can count on two installations in the province of Málaga (one in Málaga and the other in Benalmádena). The Vithas Xanit International Hospital is also proud to announce that it now offers fusion biopsies for the treatment of prostate cancer. i www.vithas.es

BIG M PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS BILL BAILEY IN TORREMOLINOS Bill Bailey will be starring in Larks in Transit: a show featuring his trademark blend of satire and surrealism, stories, and dismantled jokes. On March 5, Bill will be performing at the Torremolinos Municipal Auditorium at 8:30pm. If music is more your thing, check out a top Simply Red/Mick Hucknall tribute at Sunset Beach Club’s Moonlight Showbar on Saturday, March 7. i www.ticketsource.eu/bigmpromotions

NEW FITNESS COORDINATOR AND GROUP CLASSES AT BENAHAVÍS HILLS COUNTRY CLUB The Benahavís Hills Country Club now has a brand new Fitness Coordinator, Borja del Río, a certified EREPS Level 6 Trainer specialised in functional training and muscular rehabilitation. A keen sports and fitness lover, he uses the latest training methods and exercises to help clients achieve their goals. New group classes are also on offer, including Functional Training (an intense class that pushes you to your limits in cardio and strength) and Complete Toning (which uses light weights and your own body weight to firm up your body). i www.benahavishills.com

CONSTRUCTION OF NEW CUDECA INSTITUTE FOR STUDIES AND RESEARCH IN PALLIATIVE CARE The Cudeca Hospice recently signed an agreement with the construction company COMPAC for the construction of the new Cudeca Institute for Studies and Research in Palliative Care, which will be built next to the current Palliative Care Centre in Benalmádena. The Institute's objectives are to train future health professionals in palliative care through teaching and research and to finance care work. This centre will be a source of complementary income, which is key considering that the number of patients has doubled in the last five years.

Ricardo Urdiales, President of Cudeca, commented that, “This project has been made possible thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our benefactor, Dr. Yusuf Hamied. His donation will help add life to days.” i www.cudeca.org

CASINO MARBELLA HELPS THE NEEDY Casino Marbella has shown it cares about the community, donating €4.482 from loose gaming chips found in the premises. This year, the funds were handed to the Marbella Town Hall’s Counsellor for Social Rights, Isabel Cintado.

They will go towards those deemed neediest in the area. i www.casinomarbella.com

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SIGNATURE PORTRAITS Trending this spring are the new bold and powerful Signature Portraits by photographer Gary Edwards. After taking the initial photograph of his subject, Gary sets to work on the high resolution image, using an intricate multi-tone technique he has developed. Once every pixel is painstakingly checked and correct, the result is reproduced by professional art printers onto quality photographic print paper, seamlessly mounted onto a frameless aluminium panel and coated with a high gloss laminate. The final art piece is easily wall hung using a mounting system on the reverse side. Available in sizes up to 2x2m, prices start from €495. i To order email photographer@garyedwards.es

AGROJARDÍN SPONSORS TOURISM PLANNING EVENT Agrojardín recently sponsored an event organised by the Escuela de Negocios Inmobiliarios REBS Alumni, centred on tourism planning in the area. Speakers included the General Director of AEHCOS and the Marketing Director of La Zagaleta. Agrojardín’s CEO, Antonio Bazán, stated that “contributing to a better life for citizens and to an increase in sustainable city life is key from a real estate development perspective.” In addition to talks, round table discussions were also enjoyed by a host of experts in the fields of planning and tourism. i www.agrojardin.com

ESTEPONA TOWN HALL AND HIDRALIA AWARDS FOR ECOFRIENDLY KIDS Children taking part in the Responsible Water Consumption Competition were recently awarded prizes by the Estepona Town Hall and Hidralia. Children gave life to beautiful works of art that represent the importance of taking care of one of the most important resources on Earth: water. Over 800 primary students took part in the competition, coming up with wonderful ideas of how to make the world a better place. i www.estepona.es

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LA MENARA WELCOMES YOU TO ITS NEW HOME In January, just as the new year began, La Menara, Marbella’s family-run landscaping company with a long history and extensive portfolio of projects in Spain and abroad, opened a stylish new design studio in San Pedro Alcántara.

La Menara has been active in Marbella for over 20 years. A family-run firm now in its second-generation, the team always puts heart and soul into every one of their projects. The new office is situated close to the La Colonia centre in San Pedro and has been designed with the idea of transmitting the brand’s core essence and philosophy. The clean, modern, welcoming style of the office space is combined with natural colours to create perfect harmony. g At C/ Mainake, 7, San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 951 548 175. www.lamenara.es

PROCESSIONARY CATERPILLARS HAVE ARRIVED EARLY AGAIN For yet another year and owing to a dry autumn and rising temperatures/climate change, deadly processionary caterpillars have once again emerged and can be seen crossing roads in areas close to pine trees. This deadly caterpillar has the capacity to poison and kill pets, so make sure you stay away from danger zones. If there are nests in the trees where you live, ask your Town Hall what measures they are taking to eliminate the problem.

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z THE PRO law It can be simple, but everyone should have a plan when it comes to investing. I know some investors who carry a briefcase full of copies of company balance sheets everywhere they go (I did tell them to buy a laptop). They follow every movement the company makes, pore over the figures, and base their investments on this fundamental information. I also know people who see one quick news item or signal and who buy or sell directly from that.

Even though there is a big difference between these two types of investors, they both have a plan. WORDS NIK RAINER OF BINCKBANK

WHAT CAN UK EXPATRIATES IN SPAIN EXPECT FROM

At last we have some clarity around Brexit. While we still don’t know what the UK’s new relationship with the EU will look like next year, the transition period provides some certainty until 31 December 2020. WORDS CHRIS MCCANN, SENIOR PARTNER, BLEVINS FRANKS

I

f you are living in Spain, what might change when it comes to residence, taxation and UK pensions, and what steps can you take now to prepare?

SECURING RESIDENCE AND EXISTING BENEFITS UK nationals who are lawfully settled in Spain before the end of the transition period can lock in a lifetime of citizens’ rights here under the UK/EU Withdrawal Agreement. This protects access to healthcare, social security, education and employment opportunities for as long as you remain resident.

If you already hold residency papers – whether temporary or permanent residence – you will need to convert these to the new documents. Although the Withdrawal Agreement allows up to 30 June 2021 for this, register as soon as possible to protect your position.

Beware that you forfeit these guaranteed rights if you are absent from the country for five consecutive years. Also, there is no onward freedom of movement, so if you want to move to another EU state from 2021, you would have to apply as a nonEU/EEA citizen.

Anyone arriving in Spain after 31 December 2020 will be subject to the new residence requirements.

While yet to be defined, these may be much more stringent than today.

TAXATION AFTER THE TRANSITION PERIOD Each country sets their tax rules, not the EU, and tax treatment depends on residence, not nationality. Similarly, the UK-Spain double tax treaty is independent of the EU. As such, Brexit itself has no effect on how Britons are taxed in Spain.

However, some non-EU/EEA assets are currently

treated differently, so those with UK assets and investments are more likely to see increased taxation post-Brexit.

For example, if you sell a home in Spain to buy a British property once the UK is outside the EU/ EEA, you may no longer be eligible for capital gains tax relief.

Be aware that the way you structure your assets and wealth can make a significant difference to the way you are taxed. Residents in Spain can take advantage of highly tax-efficient investment opportunities that may also provide further benefits such as currency and income flexibility, wealth tax mitigation and estate planning advantages.

UK PENSIONS AFTER THE TRANSITION PERIOD UK nationals settled in the EU before 31 December 2020 can continue to receive yearly cost-of-living increases to their State Pension payments, even if you start claiming your pension after the transition ends.

As things stand, Brexit should not affect how you can withdraw or transfer other UK pensions.

However, once the UK government no longer has to abide by EU rules in 2021, they gain more freedom to recoup taxes from expatriate pensions.

One target could be Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes (QROPS). Currently, Spain residents can transfer to a QROPS tax-free if it is EU/EEA-based, otherwise a 25% ‘overseas transfer charge’ applies. Many expect the UK may extend this to within the EU once it sheds its current obligations.

Take personalised, UK-regulated advice before taking any action with your pensions to establish

?

the most suitable approach for your personal circumstances and goals.

CURRENCY CONSIDERATIONS During recent Brexit uncertainty, the value of sterling has experienced much volatility. While more settled now, like any currency, it is always variable.

Once you are living in Spain, it is sensible to hold some savings and investments in Euros to minimise exchange rate risk. However, you may also have expenses in the UK or intend to return someday, so want to keep something of value in Sterling.

Explore investment structures that offer flexibility to hold investments in more than one currency and convert when it suits you. Transferring UK pensions into a suitable QROPS could also provide currency flexibility for your retirement income.

When exploring the best currency and investment mix for you, make sure your investments are welldiversified, tax-efficient, and offer the right balance of risk and return for your peace of mind.

While the transition offers a welcome period of certainty for UK nationals living in Spain, the clock is ticking to secure your position and take advantage of suitable opportunities. A locally-based adviser with cross-border experience is best placed to help you prepare appropriately for the post-Brexit world.

Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change.

Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; individuals should seek personalised advice. i www.blevinsfranks.com

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business THE PRO z

BINCKBANK AND SAXO BANK THE FUTURE OF INVESTMENT

Kaspar Huijsman, Director at the BinckBank Marbella offices on the Golden Mile

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inckBank first established itself on the Costa del Sol in 2007 as the Alex investment bank.

It was renamed some years later and the company has now provided almost 15 years of uninterrupted investment banking services to residents and asset owners in and around Marbella.

In the Netherlands, the track record goes back further, with BinckBank being a Fintech pioneer that was one of the first companies in Europe to develop an online platform offering private investors and professional traders fully supported yet autonomous access to the markets and their various investment options.

“We have seen the world change around us due to a new wave of technological developments, and the banking and investment sectors are certainly not immune to such movements of time,” says Kaspar Huijsman, who heads BinckBank’s Marbella office and operation in Spain. “For investment, you used to be dependent upon brokerage firms or buying standard packages from banks. The former comes with heavy charges, and now that we’re in such a low-interest environment the returns you receive from banks are not even enough to protect you from inflation, low as it is.”

For many in the Marbella area, BinckBank is synonymous with the introduction of modern platforms with 21st century functionalities and tools that make investment accessible, safe and effective. Now the pioneering Dutch firm is merging with Saxo Bank to lead the way in modern investment banking. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

risk-managed strategy to making your money grow, every kind of investment, be it the stock markets or property, can offer solid returns. “However, the difference is that you can check the current value of your stock assets at any time, whereas the current value of a home is much harder to determine in an on-going way. Moreover, it offers greater flexibility and speed, as you can sell your shares or change the mix of assets in a day, while it can take months to sell a property and get your money out of it.”

Such limitations notwithstanding, a lot of people feel they understand real estate much better, and that it offers a bricks and mortar solidity that the markets don’t, yet the economic and social factors that affect the values of both these types of assets are largely the same. However, unless you are trading directly in specific companies, the funds and ‘baskets’ that bundle different firms, sectors and investment products together are designed to offer capital growth while spreading risk. They therefore tend to be more generic in nature, and less affected by localised factors like different street values, how trendy a particular suburb is right now, or if your view is better than your neighbour’s.

TAKING THE COST OUT OF INVESTMENT THE MARKETS VERSUS REAL ESTATE For many, investing was therefore too expensive, risky and complicated, so it remained largely restricted to a financial elite. People who speculated with their own money often did very well, but the cases where they lost out were more clearly etched in their minds, so there is a certain apprehension about the stock markets as being volatile and dangerous. “It is no different from investing in any other form of business undertaking or asset, such as real estate,” says Kaspar. “Making or losing money is not down to what you do, but how you do it.”

If you understand the processes and apply a

There was a time when the safest way of earning a little from your money and hedging it against inflation was to place it in a savings account at your bank, but interest rates are now so low that this option has basically disappeared in the developed world. “These days, the only way to safeguard your savings against devaluation is by making them work for you. Fortunately, platforms such as ours are the way forward in investment, as they lower the fees you once paid to brokerage firms significantly, give you control over your own money, and provide you with full support and expert information on which to base your investment decisions,” states Kaspar.

Kaspar and his team of banking and investment

professionals guide clients through the process, from understanding the online functionalities and tools at their disposal; accessing and sorting value-added information; and also developing an investment strategy that suits their risk level and financial goals. “People are sometimes scared because they believe they will have to become actual traders who spend whole days tracking the markets and reacting to changes,” says Kaspar, “but while professional brokers do this, the majority of our clients have a medium to long-term investment strategy with managed risk where their money is spread in a variety of products and asset classes.”

This often involves choosing different funds such as ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) that contain a specially selected mix of assets. These track the market performance and require little more than occasional analysis and adjustment in line with changing macro conditions, and certainly not the daily involvement of shorter-term trading.

“Although we don’t give formal investment advice from this office, we provide training courses, seminars and full support in developing your own, informed strategy, and this includes being available at any time to look at your portfolio and any possible adjustments that might make it leaner and reduce risk or enhance returns.” Combined with the ability to establish automatic stop-loss orders when your stocks drop below, or reach a certain point, it is a convenient, cost-effective and safe way of making your money work for you.

With the service and global market expertise of BinckBank, and the state-of-the-art platform technology and global reach of Saxo Bank now combined – the advent of 21st century investing in Spain is now stronger than ever. g BINCKBANK Tel: (+34) 951 565 656 / Tel UK: 00 44 203 901 2756. info@binckbank.com / www.binckbank.com

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z THE PRObusiness

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

MARIPOSA ENERGÍA

100% GREEN ENERGY AND A LOWER ELECTRICITY BILL

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100% GREEN ENERGY

Take a look at your current electricity Mariposa Energía only he largest-ever bill and you will see that only a minority provides 100% green global survey on of what you are consuming comes from energy, as certified by green energy, renewable sources. The majority hails from the Comisión Nacional conducted by the Green nuclear energy and the rest comes from de los Mercados y la Energy Barometer, gas. A bill from Mariposa is exactly the Competencia (the CNMC has shown that 82% opposite – 100% of everything you – which promotes and of people think it is consume is obtained by wind defends the correct working important ‘to create a world energy. of all markets in the interests of fully powered by renewable consumers and businesses). energy.” The problem for many businesses and homeowners, however, AN EASY CHANGE is that they don’t know where to start. Many Having launched his company in January, Martin think they have to invest in solar panels or other and his team are surprised to discover that many forms of renewable energy, and are reticent prospective clients think that they need to change to take on major construction work. Mariposa their meter or cables to change to clean energy Energía, founded by UK energy expert Martin Tye, but in fact, it’s as easy as providing a recent launched recently on the Coast to change all that. electricity bill by phone – the Mariposa Energía “We provide 100% green energy to businesses team will take care of the rest. “With one bill, we and large homes. Acting as a broker, we source are able to access data from the national grid. We clean energy from windfarms across Spain, can see how much electricity a business or home supplying it to businesses and villas throughout has consumed for the last 12 months and provide Spain and the Peninsula. Our business model is you with an analysis of how much you actually based on two fundamental pillars: cost-savings,

spend, comparing it with what you would spend if you switched to green energy.”

CLEAN ENERGY IN ANDALUCÍA AND SPAIN Martin Tye has many years of experience in the UK in renewable energy and solar PV solutions. As a family man who is also on the board of trustees of one of the Coast’s most prominent international schools, he is now focusing on bringing his dream of a cleaner, better planet to people in Andalucía, though his company supplies energy throughout Spain. If you are a business or home with a big bill you would like to reduce, give the multilingual team at Mariposa Energía a call. They will quickly and efficiently show you how much you can save but more importantly, they will take on all the work involved in ensuring you, your business, and your home, become 100% green.

g C/ Soria, Edif. Alcantamar 16, Local Bajo 4 (Just behind the CEPSA), San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 951 120 830. www.mariposaenergia.es

and sustainability.”

GREEN ENERGY FOR LESS If your monthly electricity bill amounts to €250 or above, simply give Mariposa Energía a ring.

They will ask you to send them a copy of your bill, and calculate exactly how much you can save by going green. “Our clients are currently saving between 15% and 30%,” says Martin, “and this variation exists because currently, electricity companies have a big leeway with respect to how much they charge.” The CEO tells me that until very recently, the energy industry was monopolised. Although legislative changes took place, most people are still with Endesa. “Many don’t know how easy it is to change,” he notes.

Martin Tye with the Mariposa Energía team

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PUENTE ROMANO MARBELLA

SEAFRONT DINING Our flagship restaurant presents the Bianchetto truffle as the highlight of the month: a prized item with distinct aroma & earthy flavour - must try!

UPCOMING SUMMER VIBES Starting May, open weekends for lunch.

Looking forward to an amazing summer season with lunches and dinners right on the sand.

SEASIDE SUSHI BAR TERRACE Opening by the promenade on April 1st for the signature Nobu sushi platters.

Sunbed service also to be enjoyed.

NEW DINING CONCEPT at Puente Romano.

THE FLAVOURS OF LIFE h otel@puen teroman o.c o m | +3 4 9 5 2 8 2 0 9 0 0 | p u e n te ro ma n o .c o m

e f i l h g i h The

b the gourmet RESTAURANTS REVIEWS NEWS GASTRONOMY CHEFS WINE

152 Magna Cafe 154 Savor 156 Gourmet Bytes 158 Chef Diego del Río of Boho Club 160 Juzcar’s Royal Tin Factory Winery

MAGNA CAFÉ IS A RESTAURANT THAT HAS STOOD THE TEST OF TIME BY COMMITTING TO CONSTANT EVOLUTION. WE ALSO TRY OUT THE DAZZLING CREATIONS BEING SERVED AT SAVOR, MEET HIGHLY RENOWNED YET ZEN-LIKE CHEF, DIEGO DEL RÍO OF BOHO CLUB, AND SAMPLE THE OUTSTANDING WINES BEING PRODUCED AT LA REAL FINCA DE HOJALATA.

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Tel: 952 818 392 www.thaigallerymarbella.com Puente Romano Hotel, Plaza Village, Marbella.

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NEW TAI PAN

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Marbella

ES IA N BA R

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

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00

SUKHOTHAI Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine Tel: 952 770 550 www.sukhothaimarbella.com Marbellamar, L-3A, Marbella.

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00

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b THE GOURMETrestaurants

SEASONAL INSPIRATIONS AT A MARBELLA ICON

MAGNA CAFE WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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ordon Ramsay once said that, “the success of any great, local restaurant is having it full on a Monday night.” Our most recent visit to Magna Cafe was on a traditionally ‘quiet’ day of the week, yet it was no surprise to see it buzzing with life, with happy diners enjoying a great meal on the sunny terrace overlooking the golf course. We were here to sample the fare of Edgars Mikelsons – a Latvian chef who displays a blend of technical ability and creativity that seems to proliferate in a land that is producing culinary wizards across the globe.

Magna Cafe’s Spring/Summer menu captures all the colour and bounty of spring in an array of dishes that burst with colour and artistry.

If this restaurant passes Ramsay’s test every day of the week, it is for a reason: it is the kind of place where you know that your order – be it catch of the day fish or a juicy steak – is made with the very best produce available. Traditional technique is another strong point here; everything at Maga Cafe – including all sauces – is made from scratch and visually appealing presentations always place the spotlight on the main ingredients.

Innovative flavour combinations play a starring role in Edgar’s dishes.

We commenced our meal with a lobster bisque – warm and fragrant

thanks to a touch of vanilla bean.

Juicy pieces of lobster were served with a dill foam and we each poured an individual serving of the bisque into our designer bowls. Indeed it is worth pausing to mention that every item on the table – from the large crystal wine glasses to the designer crockery and cutlery – add sparks of elegance and style to the experience.

Another ‘to die for’ starter (I could enjoy this treat every day without tiring of it) was the artichoke carpaccio – so tender and delicate, served with tiny pieces of pata negra ham, green apple, and soy. This was a healthy yet flavour-packed choice that even those who aren’t into vegetables will probably go ga-ga over!

We enjoyed two mains, both of which sum up the magic of a dining experience at Magna Cafe. The first was plump, scarlet-hued beetroot ravioli filled with ricotta cheese, served with a sage butter and topped with toasted walnuts. ‘Wow’ is the word for this sweet and cheesy preparation.

The second dish pleased us for very different reasons – one of which is tradition. It was a wild sea bass served over black Venere rice in a painstakingly made Champagne and butter sauce – so fresh, earthy, and soul-soothing.

For dessert, we indulged in a sinful

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(but ‘worth-it’) chocolate-hazelnut log made with Tahiti vanilla crème and a light hazelnut mousse bathed in chocolate and nuts. We shouldn’t forget the wine. Throughout the meal we enjoyed two bottles – a Nekeas 2019 (an outstanding, fruity Chardonnay) and a 2018 La Planta Ribera del Duero. Magna Cafe has a strong wine focus; indeed, the impressive cellar and sizeable tasting table – set up with beautiful crystal and cutlery – is the first thing you see as you traverse the orange tree patio and enter the restaurant through the antique, hand-crafted wooden doors.

If you are into wine, ask about

Magna Cafe’s Wine Experiences.

There are three different tasting menus which include exquisite dishes (think lobster ravioli, black cod with miso glaze, or lamb chops with a sweet plum and tarragon risotto). You can choose between two different sets of wine – featuring excellent bottles both from Spain and abroad such as the Blanco Castillo Monjardín Barrica Selección Chardonnay (Navarra) and the Tinto Gómez Cruzado Reserva Tempranillo (Rioja).

A meal at Magna Cafe is always a winning choice. Beautiful views, attentive service, flavourful Mediterranean/international dishes, and excellent wines make for an inimitable combination. This restaurant has withstood the test of time but continues to surprise and adapt to changing seasons and demands, making every visit a memorable and highly desired one. g C/ Calderon de la Barca s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 929 578. www.magnacafe.com

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b THE GOURMETrestaurants

SAVOR

WHERE FLAVOUR AND COLOUR COME TOGETHER Savor is easily one of the best restaurants in San Pedro Alcántara, a dining option that brings together beautifully crafted and presented flavours grounded in Andalucía yet infused with the colour and vivaciousness of Cuba.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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avor is the creation of Pablo Castillo, a talented young chef with local Málaga roots whose position with an important hotel group saw him gain experience in exotic places such as Cuba. The skills and impressions thus acquired are visible in his offering, for Savor builds from local Spanish-Mediterranean roots but adds tantalising touches of CubanCaribbean colour and flavour, with just a hint of Thai inspiration too.

SAN PEDRO FINE DINING The setting is the charming heart of San Pedro Alcántara; close enough to absorb its atmosphere but thanks

to a position somewhat raised from the road also private. This allows you to see and feel the town without being disturbed by it. Just as it blends cultural influences, so the décor and ambience of Savor is a harmony of stylish and cosy, with traditional values such as attentive service balancing the modern culinary creativity of the chef and his team.

The wine list is good too, so you won’t want for options, and the fact that the cocktails offered are capable of winning prizes says enough. Savor is also the proud winner of prestigious tapas competitions in both San Pedro and Málaga, and its terrace area is popular with those who come to enjoy a drink and sample Pablo’s ability to raise this mainstay of Spanish cuisine to an altogether new level.

With a chef of this standing, however, Savor is above all known for its inspiring á la carte menu and tasting experiences. Pablo works with local suppliers of fresh produce, so the menu follows the seasons, with spring adding exciting new options filled with the restaurant’s trademark flavour and colour. They are the product of a skilful melange of cultural traditions that injects dishes you think you know with added intensity and taste.

It is this which makes the restaurant stand out and become a dining experience you will want to come back to. The tasting menus in particular are a real treat, and are paired with delicious wines. We sampled one, consisting of snacks, tapas aperitifs, seafood soup, fish and meat dish, followed by dessert. Its name is Arte, and that is exactly what it is – a gorgeous ode to the technical and creative artistry of an exciting young chef.

AN ARTFUL MENU Our experience commenced with a series of delicious flavour-packed snacks in the form of crispy rice with a bean hummus; fried banana with a taramasalata of fish roe splashed with citric Yuzu; and Yucca crisps with spicy Mojo Criollo sauce; matched with a Palo Cortado sherry from Jerez de la Frontera. These finely crafted little dishes set the tone for a true taste sensation that builds in intensity as the meal progresses.

Pablo takes the classic Spanish croquet and gives it new life as a

gorgeous delicacy filled with Korean-style Kimchi with tuna tartare and Wasabi guacamole, and matches this with a Marques de la Concordia cava that sparkles and refreshes in the mouth.

It’s a true food lover’s delight, and also a very sociable way to dine out.

Next, we enjoyed patatas bravas in Japanese Tempura with foam of

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Sriracha, a Thai chilli sauce.

The other tapas included Presa Iberica pork with a quail’s egg and mini fries; a creamy croquette of fine Iberian ham and a tomato mayonnaise, with a glass of superb Ramón Bilbao Lalomba Rioja wine. The next course consisted of a modern variation of traditional Spanish callos in a Tom Yum flavoured soup with octopus. As one of us is allergic to some of these ingredients, a special taco of Cuban ‘Ropa Vieja’ shredded steak with avocado, coriander and onion drizzled with lime was prepared – all served with a fresh white Chardonnay (Cloe) from Ronda.

The flavours of the sea marked one of the absolute high points of the meal, made up of beautifully succulent corvina in a Mediterranean sauce further enhanced with Japanese garlic. This lovely dish was accompanied by a Felix Azpilicueta Private Collection white wine from La Rioja, a region that also provided the choice of red for the meat experience that typically marks the crescendo of the dining extravaganza.

The Mirto Crianza is a good pairing for the unusual but exceptional chevre prepared in a jus flavoured with honey and Amontillado sweet wine, and served with fondue of goat’s cheese

and pineapple chutney. As with all the dishes throughout this outstanding meal, the presentation, service and taste experience more than satisfied, culminating in a festivity of sweet flavours with a fantastic smoked chocolate mousse with fruits of the forest

AN EXPERIENCE TO SAVOR This, and the ‘drawers’ of small cheese, carrot and chocolate cake, went down beautifully with a Chinchilla Vino Maestro from Ronda – a sweet and refreshing white wine.

Pablo is a passionate, talented chef with the ambition to win a Michelin star, and judging by the joys on offer at Savor, there is every chance that he will do just that! g C/ Andalucía 6, Local 4, San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 951 531 777. www.restaurantesavor.com

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b THE GOURMET news

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

SEVENTEEN CONTEMPORARY MIXERS REVOLUTIONISE

COCKTAIL WORLD

If you love making cocktails and are looking for mixers made with natural ingredients and a low amount of sugar, check out the range by Seventeen. Choose from 1724 Tonic Water (containing natural mandarin extract), Spicy Tomato (with tomato, celery, and sherry), Ginger Beer (with ginger, guaraná and bergamot), and Apple Kombucha (featuring black tea, apple, and pear). i www.1724tonic.com

MARBELLA’S GASTRONOMIC AND GOLF SECTORS SHINE AT ITB BERLIN

ITB is the largest tourism fair in the world and this year, Marbella will be present, using its unique gastronomy and golfing services to attract more tourists. The event will take place from March 4 to 8 and will see top representatives from a wealth of tourism-related fields. Marbella will also attend the MITT in Moscow from March 17 to 19, as part of its aim: that of being designated the Culinary Capital of Spain 2021. i www.marbella.es

BODEGAS LARA SPONSORS HOTEL AND CATERING GALA

Bodegas Lara is now the official sponsor of the Gala de la Hostelería, organised by the Asociación de Hosteleros de Málaga. The agreement – which lasts for three years – aims to improve the economic, social, and cultural climate of Málaga. Bodegas Lara, founded in 1963, is a Málaga-owned company that manufactures wine, liqueur, and food products. i www.laraseleccion.com

NEW MOTTO FOR

MARBELLA ALL STARS Marbella All Stars – the talented group of chefs aiming at turning Marbella into a true hub of outstanding cuisine, has a brand new motto for 2020. ‘Excellent Culinary Tourism that is Healthy, Sustainable, and Adapted to the Four Seasons’ is its new inspiration. The Association hopes to extend its pursuits beyond the professional sector, targeting them at the general public (both residents and tourists). i www.marbeallaallstars.es

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b THE GOURMET chef’s profile

DIEGO

DEL RÍO

NEW INSPIRATIONS AT BOHO CLUB It’s exciting to see Diego del Ríó at the helm of a great kitchen once again, for anyone who has sampled this Chef’s exquisite fare instinctively knows that he was put on this Earth to share his culinary artistry.

He is back from a sabbatical – which he took following working to maintain El Lago’s Michelin star for many years. After undertaking this stressful role (one he was passionate about as well), he decided to take a break without a set path ahead of him. “I just rested, saw people, met friends for lunch – things I never had time to do.” During this period, he remained busy as a founding member of Marbella All Stars – the dedicated bunch of Chefs who have created a manifesto that puts quality, sustainability, and local produce on centre stage. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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oho Club somehow seems the perfect choice for his return. A five-star resort on the Golden Mile inspired on the idea of ‘laidback luxury’, it offers an exclusive selection of rooms, bungalows, and villas – surrounded by carefully manicured gardens and a gorgeous wooden-decked pool with stylish sun lounger and beds on which to relax your cares away.

If the resort is all about de-stressing, the restaurant is buzzing and alive. Boasting Boho chic décor and a plethora of bespoke pieces by top artists, it’s the new ‘it’ place to see and be seen in. On busy nights, a live DJ spins chilled dance music and conversation flows.

Diego tells me the resort will also have a spa and gym, as well as various meeting and conference spaces for business and personal events.

Boho Club is a big project for Diego and, fittingly, it is one that should be undertaken in a mindful state. His last restaurant was small and intimate; this one not only caters to the resort’s guests, but also to a profusion of Marbellís and tourists desiring a sophisticated night out. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and after-dinner drinks, running continuously from 7am until late.

Diego remains true to his culinary philosophy, which is centred on modern, seasonal, fresh food that showcases the fare of local farms and

suppliers. Andalusian cuisine is given a touch of magic with a daringly modern presentation and the unique blend of ingredients and painstaking technique he is known for. As a chef in close contact with the stars, he knows the value of innovation but respect for produce always comes first.

Diego is at one of the busiest points of his career. “You always have to work extra hard when you launch, as there are so many things to decide and refine. I was lucky enough to know many great people in the culinary industry who were happy to join me on this project.” The Chef is at the Club from early in the day, but assures me he finds the time to stay healthy, indulging in his favourite workout – spinning – as often as he can.

He sips on his dark coffee while revealing just a few dishes of the season. “Because the public dining at Boho Club is so multinational, we hope to entice them with courses bearing international flavours and utilising local products.” Most of the dishes on the menu bear this ideal blend of familiar and new – including the green curry gazpacho with quisquilla, the burrata crème served with a host of different tomato types, or his whole new take on vitello tonnato (which he serves with a tender roast beef, lettuce leaves, capers, and red onion).

What a medley of flavours!

“We also have a daily menu for €35,” says Diego, “and we open all day – meaning you can start with an early breakfast or enjoy tapas or arrive a bit later for a shared platter and a cocktail by the bar.” Indeed, Boho Club has a stunning cocktail and terrace bar featuring fantastic wines, as well as an array of cocktails and mocktails. Boho Club also has its own wines, created alongside the man responsible for the big boom in Spanish and organic wines the world over – the great Jorge Ordoñez.

Diego tours me around the large resort, giving me his time generously. He always was a special being – one with the ability to truly give himself fully to the present moment – perhaps therein lies just one of the secrets of his success as a chef. He is a great conversationalist who envisions food as fuel and art all at once, but he is also a kind and well-loved leader, as anyone who has worked with him would attest. Diego del Río and Boho Club are indeed a match made in heaven – and arguably only a chef as Zen and keenly focused all at once as Diego del Río could have weaved the gastronomic magic that has already taken over Marbella.

g Urb. Lomas de Río Verde, Marbella.

Tel: 952 157 222. www.bohoclub.com

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E X PER IENTI A L JA PA N ESE CU ISI N E TA K ES A SE AT AT

CARRETERA de CASARES km2, 29690 CASARES, MÁLAGA · +34 952 93 78 00 WWW.FINCACORTESIN.COM

b THE GOURMETwine

Vineyard with Moscatel Morisco grapes © Karethe Linaae

Fernando tests the 2016 Pinot Noir. © Karethe Linaae

A n unforget t able visit t o

JUZCAR’S

ROYAL TIN FACTORY WINERY

DRAMATIC HISTORY, NATURAL SYNERGY, EXQUISITE WINE AND BOHO INTERIORS How can an 18th Century former military tin factory in a remote, off-the-grid valley produce some of Andalucía’s most sophisticated wine? The answer lies with the man who fell in love with a historical ruin, transforming it into a unique organic wine tasting experience. WORDS KARETHE LINAAE

I

f you only know Juzcar in the Serranía de Ronda, from the Smurf movie sequel that was filmed there in 2011, you’ve missed the best parts. In addition to fabulous hiking routes, the area has la sierra’s most hidden vineyard – la Antigua Real Fábrica de Hojalata de San Miguel de Ronda.

JUZCAR’S BEST-HIDDEN SECRET The corkscrew descent to the property may be somewhat hair-raising, but you won’t regret the effort once you see the enclave of flamingocoloured houses surrounded by picturesque plots of vine, framed by a deep green forest.

We enter a roomy courtyard where citrus trees and wild dates support hammocks and glass lanterns in a Boho style paradise.

Our welcoming committee, Momo the dog,

grins almost as widely as our host Enrique Ruiz who meets us with open arms. Shortly after we are joined by the gemütlich German biodynamic farming specialist, Markus Bauer, and the passionate Seville organic oenologist, Fernando García de la Vega.

CANON BALLS BY CAMEL “If you think it’s hard to get here now, imagine in the 18th Century!” smiles Enrique. Why such a remote location? In 1725 when the factory was built here under royal decree of King Felipe V, its whereabouts were considered state secrets. In fact, the metal making process was so clandestine that German and Swiss engineers were brought in to make the exact combination. “If one believes the legend,” adds Enrique, “the scientists were

kidnapped into Spain inside wine barrels”.

The location had the advantage of nearby iron mines and a seemingly limitless supply of trees to feed Spain’s first high-temperature smelting oven. In addition, the Genal River provided hydraulic power to flatten the tinplate that later would line the hulls of Spanish galleons. In its heyday, over 100 people worked in La Fábrica, producing two tons of bullets, cannon balls and hojalata (tinplate) daily. As mules couldn’t transport the heavy loads to the coast, 20 camels from the Royal Palace in Madrid soon substituted them. Imagine! By the 1780’s, the valley’s wood resources were exhausted and the factory was abandoned. It later became a 19th Century lair for bandoleros and other outlaws, and according to village gossip, one of the last owners was a spy!

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Enrique, the chef © La Real Fábrica de Hojalata

Tinto from heaven © La Real Fábrica de Hojalata

i About the writer: Karethe Linaae is a Norwegian writer and author living in Ronda, Andalucía. Her book, Casita 26 – Searching for a Slice of Andalusian Paradise was published in the USA in 2019.

For more information, please go to snobb.net

FROM BANKING TO BODEGA OWNER But how does a Barcelona-born World Bank Economist end up in this remote corner of the world, I inquire? “It’s a long story,” shrugs Enrique.

He was at an airport in Nicaragua leafing through a real estate magazine when he discovered that the old Fábrica was for sale. He bought the property in 2001, spending a decade restoring the factory, working two construction teams and juggling permit applications from a multitude of government departments. As a testament to Enrique’s vision, the project won the distinguished Hispana Nostra award in 2018. The award recognised the rehabilitation of the factory using period materials, and the harmonious recuperation of the land, dedicated to organic wine production and oenotourism. The complex has been declared a Historical Industrial Monument and a Site of Cultural Interest.

Continuing our visit, we are led into the old sheet metal workshop, which has served as their bodega since 2014. The early-industrial stonewalls contrast the contemporary looking recycled wood ceiling with an enormous walnut tree growing straight through it. “We only make varietal wines,” says Fernando, adding that the limited production allows their wines to remain in the barrels for two winters before bottling. The estate has Europe’s southernmost plantation of Pinot Noir grapes, producing sublime wine. All the grapevines are grown organically and harvested following the lunar cycle. “We grow native species in danger of disappearing, such as Tintilla and Moscatel Morisco,” explains Enrique. Wine from the latter grape, which is autochthonous to La Serranía de Ronda, was rated 94% by the Gúia Peñin (Spanish equivalent of Robert Parker) in its first year of production. It continues to excel in quality and is considered one of the best white wines in Andalucía.

ORGANIC AND ARTISAN La Fábrica’s annual production is 10 – 15,000 numbered bottles of five single- grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Moscatel Morisco, Tintilla de Rota, Garnacha Tinta and Cabernet. Following the estate’s sustainability mission, only clean

renewable energy is utilised (wind, solar and hydroelectric power). Their wine is produced without chemicals or artificial yeast, only using minimal amounts of sulphites if necessary. The bottles are recycled glass with names printed directly on the surface with non-toxic ink, using natural corks and beeswax seals, produced on the estate. Only 1/10 of the land is dedicated to organic agriculture, the rest of the 30-hectare estate is Mediterranean oak, cork oak and chestnut forest.

Making artisan wine is more labour intensive than regular production. La Fábrica therefore accepts international volunteers to assist them, with Markus and Fernando teaching them about organic wine production. Even the pressing is done the traditional way, so I offer our feet for the next harvest…

We taste their 2018 Moscatel Morisco and Pinot Noir, soon to be bottled. Being accustomed to the traditionally heavy Ronda vinos, la Fábrica’s wines are more like French vintages – delightfully dry, elegant yet complex. Each wine has a distinctive character, which varies year to year. “Our objective is to produce distinguished single-grape organic wines,” says Fernando who, in spite of his young age, is the true nose of the bodega.

DRINK, DINE AND STAY OVERNIGHT A couple of years ago La Fábrica began to offer wine tasting tours. Due to their popularity, the experience was enhanced with an optional wineinfused lunch prepared by Enrique himself, who is an amazing cook. The mouth-watering eightcourse menu includes pheasant omelette, roasted Iberian pork with muscatel wine sauce and bitter orange cheesecake with to-die-for coffee directly from Nicaragua – all accompanied with the estate’s premium wines. But that is not all…

One day, a famous Málaga-born actor and friends were having a tasting at La Fábrica. After a delightful lunch and maybe a tad too much wine, the actor told Enrique that the only thing lacking was a place for them to sleep. The host who happens to have 8 bedrooms in the main house, immediately invited them to stay the night. While this

Hollywood favourite and his cheery lot were the winery’s first B&B guests, that option is now open to all visitors. “We are a winery, not a hotel,” insists Enrique, saying that the rooms are there only for the comfort of wine lovers who wish to extend their visit and leave with a clear head after breakfast the following day.

Enrique and his trusted team bring oenotourism to a whole new level. From the historical tinplate bodega to the estate’s Bohemian living-quarters, everything has a personal touch. Each bedroom has its own style, wallpapered with coffee bean sacks or musical notes, with priceless mementos from Enrique’s globetrotting life. You cannot avoid feeling at home. Most likely, you will want to stay for the night to be able to enjoy a summer lunch under the shady orange trees by the pool or a wintery wine tasting in the library, bookended by two roaring fireplaces, or simply enjoying a glass of Granacha wine, surrounded by Enrique’s ancient map collection.

La Antigua Real Fábrica de Hojalata, like its wine, is a place to be savoured. Their premium estate wines can be shipped anywhere in the world and are found in selected wine shops and top restaurants in Seville, Cádiz and on the Costa del Sol. To arrange a visit, go to la Antigua Real Fábrica de Hojalata San Miguel’s website: i www.fabricadehojalata.com

Tin factory gone winery © Karethe Linaae

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. . THE GUIDE listings

the guide

PRICE GUIDE per head for a three-course meal with wine

*restaurants

american

JACKS SMOKEHOUSE

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

JACKS SMOKEHOUSE

Open seven days a week from 9:30am till late. Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 813 625

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

Avda. Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 785 257

argentinean

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

under €25

€25 – €40

HACIENDA PATAGONICA

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

ORIGEN

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

belgian MYTILUS

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

eco

ALMAZEN Open daily from 12pm to midnight. Ctra. De Ronda, km 45, C.C. Monte Halcones, Local 9-10, Benahavís.

Tel: 951 275 109

GIOIA Open daily from 1pm to 8pm except Mondays.

C/ Velázquez 1, Marbella. Tel: 630 441 834

LISTINGS STARS

€40 – €60

€60 plus

french

grills

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

ALBERT & SIMON

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

MAISON LÚ Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for lunch. Blvd. Alfonso von Hohenlohe 269, Marbella. Tel: 951 210 000

VALDERRAMA RESTAURANT Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner only and on Sunday for Buffet Lunch. Apartado 1, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 132.2 Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 791 200

greek

RED PEPPER Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 148

ASADOR CRIOLLO GRILL ASADOR GUADALMINA Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Urb. Guadalmina Alta, C.C. Guadalmina, Local 3, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 883 003

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

Tel: 952 886 307

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

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

Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 528

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

EL RANCHO DEL PUERTO

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listings THE GUIDE .

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

GAUCHO GRILL Open for lunch and dinner. Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 446 460

GOIKO GRILL Avda. Ricardo Soriano, 15, Marbella. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Tel: 951 829 935

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

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

Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 822 211

OLD TOWN GRILL

Tel: 952 888 353

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

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

international

99 SUSHI BAR & RESTAURANT Open nightly for dinner. At Anantara Villa Padierna Palace. Urb. Los Flamingos Golf, CN340, km. 166, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150

11&11 RESTOBAR

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

Tel: 952 867 306

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

RESTAURANTE RANCHO

ACINIPO

Open every day from 5pm till late. Ctra. Cádiz, exit Las Chapas. Tel: 952 831 922

VOVEM Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Odeon, Locales 9-10, C/ Las Yedras, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 003 434

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

indian CORIANDER

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

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

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

BALTAZAR BAR & GRILL Open daily for lunch and dinner. El Paseo del Mar, Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona, CN340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

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

BOHO CLUB Open nightly for dinner. Urb. Lomas de Río Verde 29, Marbella. Tel: 952 157 222

BONO BEACH Open March to November from 11am daily. C/ Cervantes, Urb. Costabella, Marbella. Tel: 952 839 236

BREATHE Open from 12.30pm ‘til late, seven days a week. C/ Los Lirios s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 036 494.

Friday from 10am to 4pm. Closed Saturdays. C/ Los Jazmines 409, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 275 384.

D.O.M Open nightly for dinner. At the Hotel Meliá Marbella Banús. C/ Mario Vargas Llosa s/n, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 912 764 747

DON LEONE Open every night for dinner. Puerto Banús, Marbella.

Tel: 952 811 716

DÖS S Open 11am to 2am. Artola Alta, Marbella.

Tel: 952 000 772.

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

Tel: 951 339 309

CAFÉ DE RONDA

EL BOLERO

Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 7pm.

Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 149

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

EL CAMPANARIO

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday.

C.C. El Zoco, Sitio de Calahonda, Mijas Costa. Tel: 607 680 999

CAFETERÍA KE

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

Tel: 952 880 126

AL ROLO

CAMURÍ

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

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

ALBERTS Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Puerto Cabopino. Tel: 952 836 886

BABOO LOUNGE AND RESTAURANT Open every day for lunch and dinner, closing Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at 8pm. Ctra. Arroyo de la Miel, s/n, Benalmádena. Tel: 902 102 675

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, s/n. Tel: 956 790 333 Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, local 24-25, Estepona. Tel: 951 217 871

CASANIS Open every day from 6pm except Sundays.

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

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

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

CELIMA

EL JARDÍN DE LUTZ

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Hotel Hermitage, Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 895 639.

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

EL JINETE

CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA

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

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Urb. Cerrado del Águila, Camino del Acevedo, s/n, Mijas Costa. Tel: 951 773 521

CHARLIE’S CORNER

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

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

Open Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 11pm and

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. THE GUIDE listings EL OCEANO BEACH HOTEL & RESTAURANT

Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino. Tel: 952 837 483

HILLS CAFE

EL OLIVO

Open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Closed on Monday. Tel: 952 856 171

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

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 199, Marbella. Tel: 952 587 550

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

ERRE Y URRECHU Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Gran Meliá Don Pepe, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 238

FABIOLA

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

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

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

KAVA

FINCA EL FORJADOR Open daily for lunch from 1-4pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

Ctra. de Casares, km. 10. Tel: 952 895 120

FRENCHETTE Open daily except Monday, 5pm to 11:30pm. Plaza Santo Cristo 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 901 040

GALERIA SAN PEDRO Open from 11am until midnight. Closed Sundays. Avda Las Palmeras 15, San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 780 927

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

HAYACA Open Monday to Sunday from 7.30pm to 11pm. At the Amàre Hotel Marbella. Avda. Severo Ochoa 8, Marbella.

Tel: 951 562 083

HERMOSA Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm. Closed

LA FAMIEKE Open nightly for dinner except Sunday. C/ Cruz 5, Plaza Puente de Ronda. Old Town Marbella. Tel: 674 055 995

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

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

LA LOGGIA 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

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

LATERAL

Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km 159, Estepona.

Tel: 952 809 500

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

LOS ARCOS Open every night for dinner. Hotel Meliá La Quinta, Urb. La Quinta Golf s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 762 000

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

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

Tel: 952 816 105

Open Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 1am, on Thursday and Friday from 9am to 2pm, on Saturday from 12pm to 2am and on Sunday from 12pm to 1am.

Plaza de Los Naranjos 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 163 894

MAGNA CAFÉ

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sunday for lunch only. Ctra. Ronda, km. 46, Urb. Las Medranas, local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 951 275 750

LA TERRAZA

Reopening late March 2020. Open from 9.30am till late.

Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 839 236

LA BRISA

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

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

LA BIZNAGA

Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm.

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

LA CAMPANA Open for lunch and dinner every day from 1pm to 1am.

Avda. Miguel de Cervantes 68, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 814 041

LA CANTINA DEL GOLF Open for breakfast and lunch until 8pm. Closed Sunday.

Flamingo Golf Club, Cancelada, Benahavís.

Tel: 951 318 815

LA CASA DEL HUMMUS Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 11pm and Sunday 11am to 8pm. Plaza Puente de Málaga, C/ Mendoza 16, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 104

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

LA TIENDA LA PLAGE CASANIS Open Monday to Wednesday 10am-7.30p.m and Thursday to Sunday 10am-10pm. Urb. Coto Chico 4D, Marbella. Tel: 952 837 862

LA VERANDA Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Villa Padierna, Urb: Flamingos s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150

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

Tel: 956 615 998

LA VERANDA LOBBY BAR

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner. At the Kempinski

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listings THE GUIDE .

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

NELI Gs

lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Torrequebrada, Benalmádena Costa. Tel: 952 441 414

ROSAS CAFÉ Open from 9am to 10pm daily.

Avda. Playas del Duque 3, Marbella.

Tel: 951 569 392

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

ROJO

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

SAVOR

NŌMŌ BRASSERIE

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

OWL ORGANIC Open Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am to 7pm. Edif. San Pedro del Mar, Avda. Salamanca 13, Marbella.

Tel: 952 927 719. Also at Paraíso Barronal. Open daily from 9am to 9pm. Tel: 722 390 517

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

PERLA BLANCA Open from 10am to 11pm. C/ Agata s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 835 914

RESTAURANTE ROYAL

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday. C/ Granada, 44, Málaga. Tel: 952 227 486 Open 1pm to 3:30pm and 7:30pm to 11:30pm daily except Sunday evenings and Monday. Avda.

Andalucía 6, Local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 951 531 777

SEA GRILL At the Puente Romano Marbella.

Open daily for lunch and dinner.

CN340, km 187, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

SEVE'S KITCHEN & BAR Open daily from 8am to 10pm.

At Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club. Crta. de Ronda. A397, km 44.5, Local A, Benahavís. Tel: 952 786 437

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, MarbellaMonda. Tel: 952 864 455

Open daily for breakfast,

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. THE GUIDE listings SKAKERS URBAN BAR & FOOD Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Julio Iglesias 9, Puerto Banús. Tel: 665 410 974

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

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

mediterranean

SKINA

CIBO

Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday to Friday and Saturday for dinner only. Closed Sunday and Monday. C/ Aduar 12, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 277

COAST

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 739

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 951 550 335

oriental

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

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

DA BRUNO

TEKUM

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

Open Tuesday to Friday for lunch and dinner and for dinner only on Saturdays. Avda. Puerta del Mar 11, Marbella. Tel: 951 317 570

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

SUITE Dinner and afterwards dance to music by resident DJ. Thursday to Saturday. Hotel Puente Romano, Marbella.

Tel: 952 820 900

TACOS & TIKKA Open 1pm to 12am Monday to Sunday.

CN340, km 192, Las Chapas. Tel: 952 355 561

TERRA SANA Open Monday to Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 977. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 951 901 050. C.C. Parque Miramar, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 663 937. Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 951 915 069

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

FRASCATI

RESTAURANTE BAR CARMEN

At Plaza Village at the Hotel Puente Romano. Blvd.

Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 818 392

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

TOP THAI

AKIRA

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, 64, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 319 778. Also at C.C. Laguna Village, Local 11-13, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 661

Open nightly for dinner. At Reserva del Higuerón Resort.

Higuerón Hotel Málaga, Curio Collection. Avda. del Higuerón 48, Fuengirola. Tel: 951 505 101

TSE YANG DIMSUM CLUB Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sundays. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

ASIATICO ZEN

WAGAMAMA

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

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

BAMBOO

WASABI

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Ctra.

Istan km 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 906 674

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

DRAGÓN DE ORO Open every day from 12.30-4pm and 7pm until midnight.

Closed Monday lunchtime. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 141, Urb. Hacienda Guadalupe, Manilva. Tel: 952 890 956

GENJI SUSHI BAR Open from 1:30pm-4pm and 8pm to 11pm. C/ Ramón Gomez de la Serna, 4, Edificio Balmoral. Marbella.

Tel: 951 530 955

scandinavian ALOHA RESTAURANT

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

Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 811 285

SKANDIES

GOLD RESTAURANT

GOLDEN WOK

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

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

Tel: 952 929 055

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

KABUKI RAW

seafood

THE ORANGE TREE

LA LOCANDA DEL PARADISO

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

Tel: 952 924 613.

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. At Finca Cortesín Hotel. Ctra. Casares s/n, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

LA PAPPARDELLA DI ESTEPONA

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

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

Tel: 952 772 577

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

TRUFFLES

AND THE KITCHEN

Truffles is open daily from 6:30pm to 10:30pm nightly.

The kitchen is open daily from 12pm ‘til late. C.C. Pinares de Elviria, Local 18, Marbella. Tel: 951 569 173

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

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Paraíso Barronal, km. 167, Estepona. Tel: 951 272 371

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

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

LA TAGLIATELLA

MAKITAKE

MARISQUERÍA LA PESQUERA

Open daily for lunch and dinner. On Saturdays only open for lunch. Avda. Antonio Belón 3, Marbella. Tel: 951 535 231

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ribera s/n (above disco Seven), Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 592

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

MECA

RESTAURANTE EL BOTE

LEONARDO DA VINCI

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pino Golf, Don Carlos, Local 1, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 365 / 658 646 829s

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

NOBU

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 165

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

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

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

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

PALAPA SANTIAGO

OSAKA

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

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

spanish

SAKURA

BAHÍA

Open every evening for dinner. At Hotel Don Carlos.

Avda. Zurita s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

SAPPORO

HACIENDA

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

Tel: 952 888 710

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

SUKHO THAI

LA MÁQUINA

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

SUSHI KATSURA

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 909 990

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces s/n, in front of El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 448

TAI PAN

LA RED

SERAFINA

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

Open daily from 9.30am to 6pm. Playa La Fontanilla, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 450

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

Tel: 952 771 798

TA-KUMI

MESÓN EL ADOBE

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays. Avda.

La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3, Marbella. Tel. 600 003 144

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

Catalan Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 76501

O MAMMA MIA Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner.

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

ROSMARINO DELLA PIAZZA

Open daily for dinner. Front line P. Banús.

Tel: 952 812 898

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

LA TORRE

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda. José Banús, 5, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 536

Open every day for dinner. Closed on Mondays. Urb. Jardines del Puerto, local 12, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 906 181

ARETUSA

RESTAURANTE LA MARINA

KAMA KURA

LA PAPPARDELLA SUL MARE

RISTORANTE SAN MARTINO

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

Tel: 952 813 464

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 from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 790 370 Open every day from 1-4.30pm and 8pm until midnight.

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

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

Tel: 952 802 144

AL DENTE

AMORE E FANTASÍA

KAIDEN SUSHI

EL BARLOVENTO

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinares de Elviria s/n, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 702 Open every day from 12pm ‘til midnight for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinogolf de Don Carlos 34, Elviria.

Tel: 952 850 148

VALPARAÍSO Open nightly for dinner. Ctra. Mijas – Fuengirola, km. 14, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 485 996

VILLA TIBERIO

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

THAI GALLERY

LA MORAGA BISTRÓ

MI TABERNA Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

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RUSSELL GRANT’S Monthly Horoscopes March 2020

PISCES [February 19th – March 20th] Avoid spending money on status symbols at the start of the month; they really won’t bring much pleasure. Your personal power will be at an all-time high on the 8th so take this opportunity to ask for favours, apply for grants and promote your interests. On the 9th, the Full Moon will cause you to look at a relationship in a whole new light. Stop putting your business or romantic partner on a pedestal; it isn’t helping your union.

It will be much easier to process paperwork and deal with bureaucracies on the 10th; requests will be processed more speedily. A friend will urge you to pursue a cherished dream on the 14th; this is advice worth taking.

Spending more time on solitary pursuits will become an increasing priority on the 22nd, making it a good time to scale back your social schedule. An unusual moneymaking opportunity will become available on the 24th, thanks to a potentialpacked New Moon.

On the 9th, the Full Moon will cause you to look at a relationship in a whole new light. Stop putting your business or romantic partner on a pedestal; it isn’t helping your union

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ARIES [21 MAR – 19 APR]

Flattery will get you nowhere as March gets off the starting blocks. When talking with an employer or other professionals, it’s best to be honest, even if it means challenging their ideas. A stimulating conversation on the 4th marks the beginning of a fruitful friendship.

Your moneymaking potential soars on the 5th so use this opportunity to enjoy more creature comforts. Take advantage of a last-minute sale. On the 9th, a stressful Full Moon could prompt you to change jobs. There’s only so much nonsense you can stand. Your leadership ability will be greatly appreciated by a team of creative people on the 14th; the team has been longing for clear instructions.

Joining a prestigious social club on the 22nd will pay off handsomely; you’ll make many influential friends. One of these will recommend a talented adviser; it would be wise to make an appointment on or around the 24th, when the adventurous New Moon prompts you to change your aims and objectives.

TAURUS [20 APR – 20 MAY]

Don’t make an enemy out of a respected expert on the 3rd; it’s important to stay in this professional’s good books. It may be necessary to issue an apology on the 4th, when you realise you made an embarrassing mistake.

A unique piece of clothing or jewellery is worth purchasing on the 8th; you’ll cherish this item for years. On the 9th, the Full Moon could prompt you to abandon an unrewarding romance or creative project. It will be easier to perform your job after the 10th, when you’re given a clear set of instructions. Work hard to sign a new client, customer, patient or patron on the 20th; this deal will lead to a series of horizon-widening business trips. You’ll be asked to take on a new role near the 22nd; don’t be surprised if this leads to a change in the way you view your world. The New Moon on the 24th is the perfect time to rest, relax and recharge your batteries.

GEMINI [21 MAY – 20 JUN]

It will be necessary to cancel a trip or make alternative travel arrangements on the 4th; try to be flexible. The 8th is ideal for showcasing your creative work. Submit an article for publication, display your paintings at a gallery, or upload some musical contributions to social media. On the 9th, a challenged Full Moon could bring a secret to light.

Be willing to admit the error of your ways and ask for an apology. A stalled official matter will move forward once again on the 10th, much to your relief. The 16th is perfect for job interviews and professional reviews; you’re sure to make a great impression. You might decide that it would be a good idea to begin a serious course of study on the 22nd; it will take a long time to complete, but your hard work will pay off. The sociable New Moon on the 24th urges you to attend a party. You’re sure to cross paths with some interesting people.

CANCER [21 JUN – 22 JUL]

Don’t let a morose friend or romantic partner steal your sunshine on the 3rd. By maintaining a positive attitude, you’ll attract some lucky opportunities.

Planning a relaxing vacation at a seaside location would be a good idea around the 8th; you’ll enjoy some time away from your usual surroundings. The Full Moon on the 9th could trigger an argument. Resist the temptation to get drawn into a heated debate on social media; your words could come back to haunt you. Joining forces with a cultured person on the 11th will improve your career prospects. You could be offered a wonderful job with a forward-thinking company on the 20th; you’ll welcome the

chance to lead a team of innovators. Be more selective about the company you keep on the 22nd; you’re tired of tolerating the offensive views of small-minded friends. On the 24th, the New Moon will urge you to launch a daring product or service; it will be highly popular.

LEO [23 JUL – 22 AUG]

You’ll have to rethink the terms of a partnership on the 4th; be as flexible as possible. This relationship is worth preserving. An intriguing opportunity will come your way on the 5th; you’re the perfect person for this energising new role. Presenting something beautiful and unusual to the public will get an enthusiastic reception on the 8th; this is no time to copy old formulas. On the 9th, the Full Moon will prompt you to ask for a rise or to increase your fees if you run your own business. If this doesn’t work out as you’d hoped, start looking for a different source of income. A passionate encounter will make the 14th a night to remember; wear something that makes you feel wonderful. On the 20th, you’ll get an opportunity to share your expertise with some like-minded enthusiasts. A casual romance could take a more serious turn on the 22nd. If you’re already in a committed partnership, let your lover relieve you of some responsibilities. The New Moon on the 24th sets you thinking about taking a trip overseas.

VIRGO [23 AUG – 22 SEPT]

An old health issue could flare up at the start of March; don’t put medical matters on a back burner. Getting a professional opinion will be helpful. A loving partnership gives you the courage to take a creative risk on the 8th. The Full Moon on the 9th urges you to forgive someone who hurt you long ago; holding this grudge is robbing you of inner peace and happiness. You could finally get a job offer on the 10th after a longer than expecting waiting period. Working with an artistic colleague will be rewarding on the 16th; you bring out the best in each other. The 22nd warns you against burning the candle at both ends; taking better care of your body is critical. Let your romantic partner introduce you to something unfamiliar on the 24th, when the New Moon rewards adventurous behaviour. Taking an amorous trip would be a very good idea on the 29th; you and your partner will enjoy a break from the pressures of home.

LIBRA [23 SEPT – 22 OCT]

Don’t let friends or family intimidate your romantic partner on the 3rd; it’s important to side with your lover. It will be necessary to rethink a creative project on the 4th; try not to grumble too much. Money from a dividend, partnership, or other type of financial settlement will arrive on the 5th, allowing you to indulge your love of creature comforts. If you’re looking for love, a would-be wooer could sweep you off your feet on the 8th; it’s wonderful to be worshipped. On the 9th, the Full Moon brings some embarrassing secrets to light. Be prepared to take responsibility for some past misdeeds. A confrontation with a relative will erupt on the 20th; don’t let anyone treat you in a discourteous way. The chance to develop your artistic talent will arrive near the 22nd; accept an offer to learn from a respected expert. The New Moon on the 24th is ideal for entering a business or romantic partnership.

SCORPIO [23 OCT – 21 NOV]

You’ll be prompted to change the way you deal with a stubborn relative as March gets underway; old ways and means simply aren’t working any longer. Love is in the air on the 5th; this is a great time to find a partner or

enjoy a rendezvous with your amour. A surprise gift makes your heart sing on the 8th; it’s nice to know you are held in such high regard. The Full Moon on the 9th could mark the end of a frustrating situation; you’re ready to sever ties and strike out on your own. Praise from an important person on the 14th lets you know you’re on the right path; be proud of your progress. It may be necessary to take control of an ailing relative’s affairs on the 22nd; put your organisational skills to work. On the 24th, the New Moon could inspire you to put yourself on a demanding health regime. A business trip at the end of the month should prove profitable, giving you a chance to network and make new contacts.

SAGITTARIUS [22 NOV – 21 DEC]

Avoid social media like the plague at the start of March; it’s easy to make sarcastic jokes that you will come to regret in due course. Spending time with family will be deeply satisfying on the 8th. It will also be good for attending a reunion or meeting with a favourite relative. On the 9th, the Full Moon will prompt you to take responsibility for someone else’s mistakes. Trying to sweep this matter under the rug will only make a difficult situation more complicated. A lucrative opportunity to work from home will arrive on the 11th; don’t be so quick to turn down this arrangement. You’ll have to fight to get what’s due to you on the 20th; don’t be afraid to cause a commotion. It may be difficult to get the training you seek on the 22nd; be prepared to apply to a course several times before you are accepted. The New Moon on the 24th is ideal for starting a romance or rekindling an old one.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC – 19 JAN]

Don’t be too hard on a relative at the start of March; just because you don’t agree with their choices doesn’t mean you should criticise them. It may be necessary to return an expensive item that you purchased on the 4th; it would be best to hang on to your receipts. Falling in love at first sight is a distinct possibility on the 8th. If you are already in a relationship, arrange a lovely surprise for your partner. The Full Moon on the 9th could mark the disappointing end to an official matter; prepare for a disappointment, but don’t let it get to you. You’ll have to push harder than usual to get your point across on the 14th. Ambitious behaviour will pay off nicely on the 20th, when you could be chosen for a special reward, prize, or bonus which lots of other people had aspired for. On the 22nd, get into the habit of putting as much of your income into savings as possible. The New Moon on the 24th could find you welcoming someone to your household.

AQUARIUS [20 JAN – 18 FEB]

It will be difficult to get your message across on the 4th; wait until the middle of the month to make an important request or presentation. Domestic pursuits bring tremendous pleasure on the 5th; this is a great time to add some decorative touches to your home.

Hosting a family reunion could also be on the cards. The Full Moon on the 9th might shed light on a financial shortage so be ready to juggle your budget. You’ll be handed some serious responsibilities involving a member of the family on the 22nd. The New Moon on the 24th brings new and helpful information; you’ll be given the authority to manage a financial account. On the 30th, you’ll be inspired to pursue a personal goal. Take this opportunity to apply for a job, ask for someone’s heart, or launch a business from your home.

An offer of help from an accomplished businessperson will arrive on the 31st, causing you to breathe a sigh of relief.

With their assistance, you can move mountains.

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