September to Remember. 2019

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ADRIANA OLIVEIRA

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BEST LUXURY HOME CONSTRUCTION COMPANY 2018 - SPAIN

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WE DESIGN, BUILD AND SELL THE MOST EXCLUSIVE PROJECTS

WE DESIGN · WE BUILD · WE DEVELOP · WE FINANCE


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Bedrooms: 7

Bathrooms: 5

Built: 910 m²

Terrace: 140 m²

Plot: 4,008 m²

Price: € 5,200,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Villa with guest house located at the top of the Golf Valley, designed in a contemporary art deco-style. Ref. ES11146

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 178 m²

Price: € 1,950,000

Bedrooms: 6

PUENTE ROMANO Renovated beachside apartment. Ref. ES11225

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 169 m²

Terrace: 41 m²

Price: € 775,000

GOLDEN MILE Ground-floor apartment in Monte Paraíso. Ref. ES11364

Built: 483 m²

Plot: 1,472 m²

Price: € 2,450,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Fully renovated golf villa in Aloha. Ref. ES11087

Bedrooms: 2

Built: 167 m²

Terrace: 58 m²

Price: € 695,000

GOLDEN MILE South-facing first-floor apartment in Imara. Ref. ES10907

Regulated by RICS


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Bedrooms: 11

Bathrooms: 11

Built: 1,718 m²

Terrace: 304 m²

Plot: 5,375 m²

Price: € 5,995,000

LA QUINTA Frontline golf mansion with guest house in a gated community with 24-hour security. Superb sea and golf views. Ref. ES7173

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 226 m²

Terrace: 115 m²

Price: € 3,300,000

PUERTO BANÚS Luxurious beachfront penthouse in Malibu. Ref. ES11114

Bedrooms: 3

Built: 156 m²

Terrace: 38 m²

Price: € 1,190,000

GOLDEN MILE Aparment with sea views. Ref. ES10562

SINCE 1970

Bedrooms: 4

Built: 470 m²

Plot: 1,187 m²

Price: € 2,300,000

GOLDEN MILE South-facing villa in Monte Paraíso Country Club. Ref. ES10614

Bedrooms: 2

Built: 119 m²

Terrace: 17 m²

Price: € 450,000

GOLDEN MILE Apartment with panoramic views in Ancón Sierra. Ref. ES11151

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


ess en tial is so cial www.essentialmagazine.com

Issue 241 • September 2019

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

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STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

KEVIN HORN www.photographermarbella.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

PRINTING DEPÓSITO LEGAL

ELENA IV-SKYA / APIX SYNDICATION IAIN BLACKWELL, BELINDA BECKETT, MICHEL CRUZ, RIK FOXX, RUSSELL GRANT, PHILIP HARRIS, SAM HEXTER ANDREWS, KAROLINA KIVIMAKI, BOWEN PELLA-MCDYRE, PEREZ LEGAL GROUP, TONY WHITNEY, MARK WILKINS JIMÉNEZ GODOY A. GRÁFICAS, MURCIA D.L. MA-512-99

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CONDITIONS

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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.

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NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

CERQUILLA 42

Bed: 6 I Bath: 6+2 I Plot: 1.700 m2 I Built: 589 m2 I www.cerquilla42.es I € 6.500.000

QUALITY HOMES IN PRIME LOCATIONS NUEVA ANDALUCIA

ALOHA 40

Bed: 6 I Bath: 6+3 I Plot: 2.349 m2 I Built: 702 m2 www.aloha40.es I € 6.995.000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

VILLA BRISAS 48

Bed: 6 I Bath: 6+2 I Plot: 2.148 m2 I Built: 882 m2 www.brisas48.es I € 6.700.000


OUR EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

CASA ANA

CASASOLA 19A I € 2.395.000 www.casasola19.es VILLA CÓRDOBA I € 2.495.000 www.villacordoba.es CASA ANA I € 2.795.000 www.casaanamarbella.es VILLA BEGOÑA I € 2.995.000 www.villabegonia.es VILLA KARMA I € 3.495.000 www.villakarma.es BRISAS 24 I € 3.495.000 www.brisas24.es VILLA MARINA 8 I € 3.495.000 www.villamarina8.es VILLA CHRISTINA I € 3.895.000 www.villachristina.es

Bed: 4 I Bath: 4 I Plot: 839 m2 I Built: 291 m2 www.casaanamarbella.es I € 2.795.000

CERQUILLA 30 I € 5.500.000 www.cerquilla30.es LOS PICOS 4 I € 5.795.000 www.lospicos4.es

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

VILLA CÓRDOBA

CERQUILLA 42 I € 6.500.000 www.cerquilla42.es BRISAS 48 I € 6.700.000 www.brisas48.es ALOHA 40 I € 7.495.000 www.aloha40.es VILLA JAZMIN I € 13.900.000 www.villajazmin.es

OUR NEW DEVELOPMENTS THE HILLS www.thehills.es LOS OLIVOS NUEVA ANDALUCIA www.losolivosmarbella.com

Bed: 4 I Bath: 3+1 I Plot: 800 m2 I Built: 439 m2 www.villacordoba.es I € 2.495.000

LOS OLIVOS DEL PARAISO www.losolivosdelparaiso.com

PUERTO BANÚS

VILLA MARINA

OFFICE: +34 952 765 060 MOBILE: +34 627 813 545 EMAIL: info@solvilla.no

Bed: 5 I Bath: 4+1 I Plot: 880 m2 I Built: 450 m2 www.villamarina8.es I € 3.495.000

Hotel Marbella Club, oficina 10 29602 Marbella, Spain Blvd. Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n

www.solvilla.no

+34 952 765 060


L U X U R Y A PA R T M E N T S N E X T T O

C O N S T R U CT I O N S TA R T I N G S O O N

· · · · · · · ·

25 0 m e te r s fr o m th e b eac h G ate d c o m m u n i ty wi th c o n c i e r ge s e r v i c e Lar g e d u p l e x an d tr i p l e x p e nt hous es Pr i vate p o o l s i n s el ec te d u n it s Lar g e r o o fto p so l ar i u m s wi th s ea v i e w s Communal gardens, swimming pools, chill-out areas In d o o r p o o l , gym , S p a, s o l ar i um 24h s ec u r i ty


THE BEACH ON THE GOLDEN MILE

Exclusive sales agent

www.engelvoelkers.com/marbella/benalus · benalus@engelvoelkers.com · Tel.: 951 234 373


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Los Flamingos Golf Resort

Los Flamingos Views - 6 Spectacular designer villas with spectacular sea views in one of Europe´s most prestigious Golf Resorts. Two of the villas have already been built and furnished to perfection, ready to move in. Located within the exclusive gated 5-Star Golf Resort of Los Flamingos, surrounded by a truly magical landscape. Each

villa has an individual design with double height ceilings, a stylish kitchen with the latest appliances, a smart-home control system, wine cellar, cinema room, under-floor heating and other luxury features. From 4 beds, from 4 baths. Built from 542 m2, plots from 1.189 m2. E&V ID: D-000B6C. Price: 1.950.000 €.

Puerto Banús Shop: 952 859 860 · www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella


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Frontline Golf Los Naranjos

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Villa Esmeralda - Where taste meets the best location. A home of exquisite style, comfort and sophistication, inspired by the strong attention to details and where the living space blends to perfection with the outdoor design, integrating exterior and interior in harmony with the surrounding golf course. An absolute beauty surrounded by waterfalls, a home that has been

carefully designed to offer a unique luxury living atmosphere. The living room and bedrooms are beautifully decorated, as well as the spectacular terraces with several chill-out areas and an outdoor fireplace, all facing the beautiful golf course. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 564 m2, plot 1.528 m2. E&V ID: W-02FMBJ. Price: 3.495.000 €.

Puerto Banús Shop: 952 859 860 · www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella


Creating places that enhance experiences

Tel: +34 951 569 722 Publicacion agosto.indd 16

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SOLE AGENT

Casa Los Rosales, La Joya, Malaga

Though it lies within the rugged beauty of the Serranía de Ronda mountain range, backed by the nature reserve of El Torcal, Casa Los Rosales is no more than 45 minutes from Málaga’s international airport, 45 minutes from the historic city itself, as well as the beaches of the Costa del Sol. 5 bedrooms • 6 bathrooms living surface 673 m² • plot surface 4.000 m² € 2.950.000

ref 1011

SOLE AGENT

SOLE AGENT

Finca La Romera

The best of 3 worlds: Driving off the coast road leaving the hustle of the city and beach life behind. Within fifteen minutes you arrive at a small Pueblo called Benahavis where white houses nestle in the side of the mountain and probably one of the few typical Spanish villages that still exist close to the sea. 7 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms living surface 771 m² • plot surface 7.100 m² € 15.000.000

Villa Estilo Morisco

This Cortijo brings you back to the charm and character of the typical Andalucian home with the combination of Moorish and Spanish detail, but with practicability of present day. Situated just 5 minutes by car to the Beach and Estepona Town, makes this an unusual property being so close to all amenities. 5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms living surface 236 m² • plot surface 8.000 m² € 2.950.000

ref 1168

ref 1167

DEVELOPMENTS

Emare, Estepona Apartments and Penthouse

Finca Cortesin, Casares Villa’s, Apartments and Penthouses

€ 3.100.000 to € 4.900.000

€ 1.100.000 to € 9.000.000

Los Palacetes De Banus, Marbella € 5.530.000 to € 6.025.000

Art. Beauty. Provenance. Calle de Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 23 | 29602 Marbella | Málaga +34 951 122 313 | info@costadelsol365.es

www.costadelsol365.es


SOLE AGENT

FANTASTIC VILLA IN LA ZAGALETA Being located in one of the highest areas of La

plot we find first the main villa. From the main

the ground floor and out through the indoor pool

Zagaleta and enjoying unique and panoramic

entrance we can presage the spectacular views

we access the garden of the house and we find

views from any point of the property. In a large

of the sea that this idyllic property offers us. On

3 bungalows/apartments.

costadelsol365.es 9 bedrooms • 9 bathrooms • living surface 900 m² •

plot surface 4.146 m² • Price upon request

ref. 1192


Scenic setting M E D I T E R R A N E A N H I L LT O P E S TAT E

Beds 8 Bath 7

Built 1.253 m2 Plot 50.000 m2

Price: 3.800.000 â‚Ź Ref: DM1440

Superb Andalusian style residence with stunning sea views located in a privileged setting in Elviria (East Marbella) at 400 metres above sea level. Large plot with over 750 trees including ancient cork, oak and pine trees, landscaped garden with water features, vegetable garden and two orchards. An impressive driveway leads to the main house of this very private property with spacious living areas including reception room with separate lounge, four bedrooms downstairs and the master bedroom which occupies the entire upper floor. Separate guest accommodation and staff quarters, pool pavilion with heated swimming pool, water wells and electricity generator.

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 523 offices in 60 territories


Country chic E L E VAT E D V I L L A W I T H S E A V I E W S I N G AT E D C O M M U N I T Y

Beds 4 Bath 5

Built 560 m2 Plot 6.303 m2

Price: 2.400.000 € Ref: DM4455

Traditional style villa situated in El Madroñal, a private gated community with 24h security in the hills immediately above Marbella within a few minutes’ drive to the beach, Puerto Banus and all amenities. Recently reformed, the house is distributed over two floors plus a lower ground level with direct access to the garden. The spacious living accommodation includes bedrooms on ground and top floors for additional comfort. Its elevated position offers amazing sea and mountain views that can be enjoyed from almost every room of the house and from the impeccable mature garden with heated pool, gazebo and fruit tree orchard.

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




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Second Line Beach Los Monteros

White Garden - An exceptional estate presenting modern luxury living by the beach as well as the best of Andalusian style. The property is set on a large plot in the prestigious beach resort of Los Monteros just 150 meters from the sandy beach, in a community with 24h security. The villa is built in authentic Andalusian architecture

with beautiful patios and antique elements. The property offers top quality materials and all modern amenities for luxury living such as gym, sauna and steam bath, home cinema, games room and wine cellar. 7 beds, 7 baths. Built 1.588 m2, plot 2.700 m2. E&V ID: W-02FO74. P.O.A.

El Rosario Shop: 952 832 040 ¡ www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella


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Beachside Marbesa

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Casa del Mar - This stunning villa is definitely the most exclusive modern beach villa on the market today. Situated just a few meters from the beach on a spectacular plot of 2.519 m2 in one of the trendiest beach resorts in Marbella, Marbesa. A tailor-made home with a complete concept that integrates large outdoor areas, a spacious

home and beautiful interiors, all designed and customized with the absolute best materials to provide a chic luxury living by the sea. Built on one level; double size bedroom suites; separate spa house with gym and sauna. 5 beds, 7 baths. Built 731 m2, plot 2.519 m2. E&V ID: W-02GB2G. Price: 4.600.000 â‚Ź.

Elviria Shop: 952 835 580 ¡ www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella


Village living reimagined


Contemporary homes with state-of-the-art facilities, to create a community like no other. Part of La Reserva Club collection of communities.

What really matters to you, is what really matters to us.


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SUMMER-END PARTY BOHO EXPERIENCE EDITION FROM LUNCH TILL MIDNIGHT

15.09.19 Urb. Golden Beach | Playa Real de Zaragoza | N-340 Exit 190C | 29604 Elviria-Marbella reservation@laplagecasanis.com | (+34) 952 83 78 62 | www.laplagecasanis.com


Music Acts

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V I L L A C H R I ST I N A www.villachristina.es


V I L L A JA Z M I N

www.villajazmin.es

Antima is a family-run company developing exclusive, furnished properties in Marbella. By pursuing excellence and quality in every project, Antima has established some of the most prestigious homes around the world. We have a handful of beautiful estates for sale at the moment. For more information please contact our exclusive listing agent Solvilla.

www.solvilla.no +34 627 813 545

www.antima.no +47 900 99 665


Live an elegant Andalucian lifestyle, where traditional architecture meets lavish open plan interiors and an ample range of beautifully designed amenities. Contemporary apartments set in a stylish traditional Andalucian gated community with stunning golf and sea views, from 235,000â‚Ź. 1st Phase Delivery Summer 2020. Amenities to include Clubhouse, Spa, Cross Fit and Yoga areas, Indoor gym and pool, 4 outdoor pools and a Kids Club. Register now to find out more at paraisopueblo.com +34 951 275 185 ¡ info@paraisopueblo.com

Exclusive Agency



essential marbella®magazine

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

ESSENTIAL IS SOCIAL! JOIN OUR WORLD OF LUXURIOUS FUN

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D

contents the spotlight

Feeling the Heat 48 Easter Island 58

Tétouan 70

The Hotel Vincci Posada del Patio 78 Print Marketing 82

Catvertising 88

The Senior Masters Cup 92 Bentley Turns 100 96

the spa 158 Argentum Apothecary 160 Filorga 164 Strange Phobias 165 Clínica Renacimiento Now in Marbella 166 Juice Plus+

the social 169 Chicnic Event

The Ferrari F8 Tributo 102

170 The Vibe

Vinyl LPs & Cassettes 106

176 Returning to the Coast

Billie Eilish 108

the trend New Cinema Releases 112 New Netflix Series 114

177 Animal Love

the pro 180 Colin McLundie 182 The View

Music Mix 116

184 Enterprise

Top Reads 118

190 Time for Taxes

Cute Home Gadgets 120 What’s Cool in Spain and the World 122

192 Business Profile: BinckBank 193 Business Profile: Kensington International

the style

the gourmet

Casa del Mar: A Home by the Sea 128

197 El Chiringuito

Kare Design 136 A Villa Reformation by Blackshaw 142 Décor Designs 144 Fashion Trends 146 El Corte Inglés Men’s Fashion Concourse 148 Fashion Focus 154

199 Maison Lú 200 Gourmet Bytes 202 Pierre Marcolini, Chocolatier at El Corte Inglés 204 Bodegas Chivite

the guide 206 Listings 212 Stars for September

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N O TI P H O AS N E ST 2 R U C C ER D N U

NATURALLY MODERN LIVING

PaloAltoMarbella.com TO BOOK A TOUR: 900 102 322

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D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

MAKE IT A SEPTEMBER

TO REMEMBER W

elcome to sweet September, one of the nicest month’s of the year here in Marbella! To help you enjoy it to the max, we bring you an issue packed with essential content. We jump on a long haul to Easter Island after discovering that the huge heads actually extend underground with giant bodies. We also hop across the Med to Tétouan, courtesy of a new direct flight-service from Málaga, and we discover why the Hotel Vincci Selección Posada del Patio is consistently winning awards. Life in the fast lane this month pays homage to the new Ferrari F8 Tributo. We also commemorate the centenary of Bentley, the luxury marque having celebrated its 100th anniversary on July 10th. If you haven’t been to the re-modelled Men’s Fashion Concourse at El Corte Inglés Costa Marbella, make a point of going soon – it is very inspiring! Other things to look out for this September include the Senior Masters Cup at Puente Romano’s Tennis Club and Chicnic at Finca La Concepción. Elsewhere, find out how luxury print media such as this very magazine you are holding is becoming more relevant in terms of providing a qualitative marketing response. As well, read about the comeback of the vinyl LP, which is great news for those of us who still have a working turntable. Finally, don’t miss the great dining options reviewed in these pages, El Chiringuito at Puente Romano, and Maison Lú on Marbella’s Golden Mile, and find out why the wines from Chivite are making waves around the world.

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8

EXCLUSIVE

GATED

RESIDENCES

LOMAS DEL MARBELLA CLUB

ONLY 2 VILLAS REMAINING!

A STUNNING HOME AWAITS YOU…

www.conceptmarbella.com • info@conceptmarbella.com • Tel: +34 952 810 785 241 Concept8.indd 1

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e the spotlight CULTURE HISTORY PEOPLE MOTORING TECHNOLOGY ENTERTAINMENT

48 Feeling the Heat 58 Easter Island 70 Tétouan 78 The Hotel Vincci Posada del Patio 82 Print Marketing 88 Catvertising 92 The Senior Masters Cup 96 Bentley Turns 100 102 The Ferrari F8 Tributo 106 Vinyl LPs & Cassettes 108 Billie Eilish

SUMMER MAY HAVE OFFICIALLY COME TO A CLOSE BUT FOR MARBELLA RESIDENTS IT IS ONE OF THE BEST MONTHS TO BE ON THE COAST. READ ABOUT THE CONTINUING TREND OF INCREASING TEMPERATURES, DREAM OF ANCIENT TIMES WITH OUR FEATURE ON EASTER ISLAND, CHECK OUT THE NEW FERRARI F8 TRIBUTO, AND DISCOVER WHY TEEN SINGER, BILLIE EILISH, IS THE NAME ON EVERYONE’S LIPS!

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A SENSE OF PRIVACY IN A NATURAL SETTING

ANDALUSIAN COUNTRY CHIC WITH A TOUCH OF THE “HAMPTONS” This beautifully designed residence is located in the prestigious El Madroñal which is a gated community up in the hills overlooking Marbella and its Mediterranean coastline. Among the home’s many special features is a fresh contemporary interior with a pleasant open-plan layout featuring split levels that add a sense of privacy to interconnected living spaces. Beautiful sea and country views can be enjoyed from most areas of the house.

Plot Area 3203m2 | Built Area 662m2 Bedrooms 5 | Bathrooms 5 ensuite Guest Toilet 1 | Orientation South

MARBELLA - SPAIN

M M O E

+ 34 609 572 802 + 34 658 315 295 + 34 952 636 717 info@g5estates.com

WWW.G5ESTATES.COM

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D THE SPOTLIGHT cruel summer

FEELING THE

HEAT

Spring heatwaves, summer snow, humungous hailstones in July – and that’s just in Spain. Weird weather has become a worldwide phenomenon, setting forest fires in the Arctic and turning Britain into the new Costa del Sol. If this is the trailer to Climate Change the movie, it will be an inconvenient truth for southeast Spain, destined to look a lot more like the Sahara by the end of this century if we don’t turn the global heating down. Belinda Beckett checks out the long-range forecast and discovers some deserts you never knew existed in our own back yard.

HEATWAVE HELL Heatwaves are the hot new weather pattern and they’re 4C hotter than a century ago. The first of the year roared in during the last week of June and hung around for five days, seeing record highs of +43C in some parts of the country. It was Spain’s 31st heatwave this century so far. The longest, in 2015, lasted 26 days while 2017 set a new record with five, and a new hottest day of 46.9C, recorded in Cordoba. A hot spell becomes a heatwave when it exceeds the average maximum temperature and lasts for three days and there have only been 10 summers in Spain without one since 1975. Extreme summer heatwaves will become four times as common in Spain by the end of the century and winters are warming too. The coldest 50 were pre-1970s.

SCORCHING CITIES Madrid will simmer like Marrakech and Barcelona will heat up to the highs of Adelaide, Australia over the next 30 years – and that’s a best-case scenario. A report comparing temperature rises in 520 cities claims that those in temperate and cold zones of the northern hemisphere will resemble cities more than 1,000km closer to the equator by 2050. The forecast is based on global warming of +1.5C – the most optimistic target set by the Paris Climate Change Agreement, only achievable if CO2 emissions reach net zero by 2050. Spain cut emissions by 3 percent last year but is still the sixth biggest emitter in the EU 28. If the science is right, London will become as tropical as present-day Barcelona and we could all be taking our holidays on the Scottish Riviera by the 22nd century.

FOREST INFERNOS

The Iberian Peninsula is ravaged by more wildfires than anywhere in the world except Russia, and in increasing number. Spain has put out more than 400,000 over the last three decades and Andalucía received 505 fire alerts this year up to the end of July – the most in the country. Catalonia’s four-day forest fire, the worst in 20 years, was set off on a farm by June’s heatwave when a pile of highly flammable chicken manure self-combusted. Spain’s arid zones are super-susceptible to wildfire and global warming is going to make it a lot hotter and drier, with more lightning storms – another major wildfire trigger.

48 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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STEAMY NIGHTS

BIBLICAL STORMS

The UK wasn’t the only place reporting hailstones the size of sweets this summer. In the Valencian municipality of Utiel they were reportedly ‘as big as tennis balls’! The extreme weather that swept through northeast Spain in July courtesy of the fickle jetstream saw temperatures dropping by 10C in 10 minutes and summer snow falling in the Pyrenees. Freak weather events are set to become the norm as the planet warms. Heatwaves will be followed by lightning storms, rain and snowfall will be rarer but more torrential, increasing the risk of avalanches, landslides and flash floods. Spain already spends hundreds of millions of euros annually shoring up its remote mountain roads to keep pace with the rural tourism boom. However the rain in Spain falls mainly elsewhere these days. The country was 25 per cent wetter 50 years ago and in southeast Spain the climate is on track to become 20 per cent dryer by the end of the century.

Too hot to sleep this summer? It’s all down to the increase in ‘tropical nights’ – temperatures of + 20C after sundown. In Spain they have been increasing at the rate of four per decade since 1980. Stickier nights on the coast are boosted by the rise in sea temperatures, with the Med warming at a rate of 0.34C per decade. Inland cities like Madrid feel it too from the ‘heat island effect’. Temperature-trapping tarmac, pavements and buildings can raise the mercury by as much as 12C.

Biblical Plagues Shoals of jellyfish, clouds of toxic algae, swarms of mosquitos… Insurance companies on the Costa del Sol have been reporting a huge surge in claims for treatments for infected mozzie bites this summer. But tiger mosquitos really made this summer suck. Previously native to the warmer tropics of Southeast Asia, they’re sweeping through Spain as a direct result of the warming climate. Characterised by white stripes on their legs and bodies, the bloodsuckers can transmit over 22 viral diseases including zika and dengue. Valencia reported the first case of dengue fever in 2015 and there have been a dozen more since. While rarely fatal, the full-on fever can last a week and inflict joint pain for years after.

AND THE GOOD NEWS IS… Spanish summers last five weeks longer than they did 50 years ago. A few years ago you’d have been shouting ‘Y viva verano!’ but the salad days of summer are wilting in the heat. National weather agency AEMET, which charts the start of summer from the moment daily average temperatures hit 20C, says it used to begin on July 15 and end on September 16. Today it lasts from June 11 to September 22 so don’t pack the bikini away just yet!

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DESERTS ON THE DOORSTEP Lawrence of Iberia isn’t a movie yet but desertification is on the march. An area the size of Galicia has seen a climate shift from Mediterranean to semi-arid in the last four decades. In a global warming scenario of 2C above pre-industrial levels, Greenpeace predicts that 75 per cent of Spain could turn to sand by the century’s end due to ‘over-exploitation of water sources, overgrazing, intensive agriculture and needless urbanisation.’ Spain is the most climactically diverse country in Europe with 13 zones ranging from alpine to tropical with an 18C average temperature differential between the hottest and coldest. Some 20 per cent of the country is classified as desert or semi-arid. But who knew there were landscapes in our backyard where a camel could feel quite at home? Check them out!

TABERNAS DESERT, ALMERIA Hollywood’s favourite ‘spaghetti western setting for close to a century, it’s often erroneously called Europe’s ‘only desert’. Temperatures can exceed 50C in July. When it rains (rarely) it’s a deluge, eroding the sandstone into dramatic formations and fissures that have become habitats for snakes, scorpions, lizards and wildlooking cacti.

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THE BARDENAS REALES These rugged badlands stretching for 420 km through southeast Navarra were once bandit country and, as the Spanish Airforce uses them for target practice they’re still a dodgy place to be. The desert centre is known as Bardenas Blanco because of its salty white soil. The landscape has been sculpted by the elements over millennia into extraordinary canyons, plateaus and isolated hills called cabezos.

CABO DE GATA-NÍJAR NATURAL PARK, ALMERIA It doesn’t look like a desert from its stunning coastline. Only the mountains in the distance hint at the arid climate beyond. But Andalucia’s largest and wildest protected coastal park is the driest place in Europe, with rainfall below 1.6 cm a year – ideal growing conditions for agave, prickly pear cacti and Europe’s only native palm.

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MONEGROS DESERT, ARAGON A flat steppe landscape spanning the provinces of Zaragoza and Huesca, it’s prone to chronic drought but its salt lakes are Spain’s largest habitat for birds, with over 5,000 endemic species. Sparsely populated by humans, its surreal rock formations are protected as a Singular Landscape of Europe.

THE CANARY ISLANDS DESERTS On the same latitude as the Sahara, it’s no surprise that these off-Africa islands have several deserts: Timanfaya in Lanzarote is a Martian landscape of volcanic stone complete with tourist camels while the rolling dunes of Fuerteventura’s Corralejo Natural Park and Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas are classic Lawrence of Arabia country.

GORAFE DESERT, GRANADA The site of a lake 100,000 years ago, its ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations have been compared to Cappadocia in Turkey and its cavernous red clay ravines to America’s Grand Canyon. It’s not too far from civilisation either, with good drive-through roads, and the famous cave homes of Guadix are under 30 minutes away by car. e

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AG EN T LE SO ELVIRIA BEACHSIDE VILLA REF V030 Fabulous beach front newly modernised villa beside the Hotel Da Vinci in Marbella. Perfect for families and privacy seekers who like to enjoy holidays with the beach right on your doorstep. 3 beds, 2 baths, a spacious living room, large kitchen and 3 garage spaces. €1.150.000

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PENTHOUSE, MARBELLA CENTRE REF AT017 Striking luxury penthouse of 220m2 with 3 bedrooms and amazing sea views is in a gorgeous building in the centre of Marbella. A spacious living room of 60m2 and double terraces with jacuzzi and views. 2 minutes to the beach and the city market. €699.000

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D THE SPOTLIGHT travel

In 2018, the government of Chile made an unprecedented move when it decided to limit tourism numbers to Easter Island. "Rapa Nui is a magical island, we all want to visit it, but it is also a fragile island and therefore we have to take care of it," said Chile’s President, Sebastian Pinera. The government’s answer to over-tourism was to limit the maximum length of stay from 90 to 30 days for all tourists – including Chileans who are not part of the native Rapa Nui population. It is not only the magnificent moai sculptures which are at risk, but also the environment. The island is overpopulated, with twice the number of residents it used to have. This has resulted in a strain on resources and the generation of tons of garbage that are threatening environmental stability. As stated by UCLA archaeologist and Director of the Easter Island Statue Project, Jo Anne Van Tilburg, “On an island where electricity is provided by a generator, water is precious and depleted, and all the infrastructure is stressed, 150,000 (people) is a mob.” WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Closeup of large Moai at Ahu Tongariki

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EASTER ISLAND Land of the Stone Giants

IS HISTORY REPEATING ITSELF?

Easter Island is best known for its collection of over 900 male-shaped moai (sculptures), some of which can be found face-down instead of gazing out at the magnificent landscape before them. The fallen statues were purposely thrown down, indicating that important events took place that made the islanders destroy the images they had worked so hard to create. They are symbolic of the human penchant for self-destruction that continues to this day. Every country, region, or island wishes to profit from tourism, but at what cost? Rapa Nui is only 162km2 in

size, yet it receives over 50,000 visitors a year. The government attributes the boom in tourism to the Island’s nomination in the New Seven Wonders of the World contest, which has led to predicted estimates of 200,000 visitors annually by 2020. Greater efforts to protect Rapa Nui must be established, but tourists can start doing their share to protect the island’s treasures today.

THE SELFIE CULTURE ENDS IN TEARS Despite the fact that Easter Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors often show little respect for its value. According to Van Tilburg,

this sacred site is being degraded by visitors who climb the moai statues, walk over tombs, and enter protected areas – all in an effort to get a ‘better selfie’ than the next person. You may have also seen Instagram shots featuring tourists holding a finger up to the nose of the statues – an act, says the archaeologist, which shows great disrespect. "I am troubled by the lack of genuine tourist interest in the island and its people. There is a lack of appreciation for the Rapa Nui past. It seems that many wish only to insert themselves into history by taking a selfie with the timeless statues."

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MAKING A CONNECTION For Jo Anne Van Tilburg, the fate of the island very much depends on both scientists and tourists stepping up their game. Tourists, she feels, should “study and learn” before stepping onto the island, in order to “remove their selfies from the landscape and learn to appreciate the past.” It is indeed very enriching to learn about Easter Island’s history, the careful excavations that have revealed striking secrets, and the proper etiquette to adopt when visiting sacred sites.

THE MOAI ARE JUST THE JEWEL IN THE CROWN The moai gaze proudly at the island, their backs turned to the Pacific Ocean, from within the lush Rapa Nui National Park. Easter Island was colonised close to the end of the first millennium by settlers from Eastern Polynesia, whose culture expressed itself in colossal statues (the moai – which represented their ancestors). The first settlers are thought to have arrived around 400AD, but to this day, historians are still uncertain about who they were. Some believe there was an extra-terrestrial connection, but there is no strong evidence either way.

MORE THAN A PRETTY FACE One important thing to know about the moai is that the ‘Easter Island Heads’ actually have bodies! Almost a decade ago, UCLA archaeologists excavated two of these moai, finding that the heads were connected to far bigger shapes that were covered by shifting soils and erosion. With an average weight of 20 tonnes and a height of around six metres, these statues were carved lying down on a quarry, moved to their intended site, and subsequently placed upon an ‘ahu’ or platform. Some moai have red topknots obtained from a specific quarry called Puna Pau – which produces red stone (red was

considered a sacred colour). Once placed into cavities in the ahu, the sculptures were given eyes made of coral and red stone. The larger the statue, the greater the importance of the chief who commissioned it.

PUTTING THE MOAI IN THEIR PLACE The statues were carved on three sides then lowered into their intended slot. Once this was done, the last side was completed. The statues that currently stand by the Rano Raku volcano are incomplete, since work was required on them before their transportation to their ahu.

Islets viewed from Orongo

HOW WERE THE MOAI MOVED? Transportation of the moai was difficult work. First, deep holes had to be carved into the rock. Trunks were placed into the holes for greater stability, and the statues were slowly lowered down a 45º slope with ropes. Many scholars think that ropes were also used to haul the statues from one side of the island to another. The theory that they might have been moved on wooden rollers has been debunked, because the road beds are too concave to allow for smooth delivery.

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WHAT HAPPENED TO THE NATIVE POPULATION OF RAPA NUI? Scholars have long wondered why a population that worked so hard to erect its famous moai statues should have disappeared from their sacred land. The recent documentary, Easter Island: The Truth Revealed has an interesting answer: rats! Previously, it had been postulated that the Rapanui were forced to leave after decimating the land. According to this theory, the forest area was destroyed. Since wood was required to make the wooden sledges and log rails that would be used to transport the massive statues across the island (as mentioned above, this theory has been questioned), the scarcity

of this material led the natives to move to greener pastures. A recent study published in the American Journal of Physical Anthropology has put this ‘ecocide’ theory to rest, arguing that the demise of this civilisation was caused by two main factors: rats, and slavery. Archaeologists believe that rats, who feed on palm nuts, nibbled away too voraciously at the precious commodity, thus preventing palm trees from reseeding. Slavery and diseases contracted from Europeans were another big blow to the native population. In 1862, slave traders from Peru abducted up to 2,000 natives (half the island’s population), allowing

only 15 victims to return to the island. Sadly, these natives infected the rest of the population with diseases they had contracted, thus leading to the eventual demise of this fascinating culture.

skilled at farming and fishing, but they were less adept at managing their resources. Social inequality, combined with environmental fragility and the advent of the slave trade, made them unable to defend themselves sufficiently.

A SOCIAL PERSPECTIVE Jo Anne Van Tilburg believes that another reason for the downfall of Rapa Nui’s natives was social inequality. The wealthy made all major decisions, deciding how the lower classes should live and forcing them to harvest food for the entire population. They also decided all matters pertaining to the moai – including how they should be built. Van Tilburg told UCLA’s Jessica Wolf that the natives were highly

AHU TONGARIKI As inspiring as the statues are the platforms they stand on. Ahu Tongariki is the largest ceremonial structure built on Easter island and is considered the most important megalithic monument in Polynesia. The central platform measures almost 100 metres and it is topped with the greatest number of moai (15) on the island, with statues varying in height.

Ahu Tongariki - the largest ahu on Easter Island

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An aerial view of Rano Kau

THE POIKE VOLCANO SPEAKS When you first encounter the stately moai, you are taken aback by the stillness and spirituality they exude. However, step a few metres back from the row of giants and you will behold a site of great natural beauty – including the Poike Volcano (the oldest volcano on the island), whose eruptions resulted in the formation of the eponymous peninsula. The top of the volcano is covered by a lush eucalyptus forest, while its southern end comprises majestic cliffs that

descend to the cove of Hanga Nui.

A LEGENDARY BATTLE It was on the Poke Peninsula that the mythological battle between the ‘Long Ears’ and the ‘Short Ears’ took place. According to this narrative, the ‘Long Ears’ were domineering and haughty, leading the ‘Short Ears’ (who were charged with the most laborious tasks) to rebel. In order to defeat their foe, the ‘Long Ears' dug deep ditches, filling them with branches. The

intention was to light the ditches with fire and force the ‘Short Ears’ to fall into this trap. In fact, the joke was on them. A ‘Short Ears’ woman married to a ‘Long Ears’ man warned her people about the devious plan, and while the ‘Long Ears’ slept, the ‘Short Ears’ set the ditch alight and attacked. The ‘Long Ears’ revealed that their strategic abilities were not as great as the size of their flappers, falling into their own ditch and succumbing to an agonising death by fire.

Moai in Rano Raraku

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Ovahe Beach

THE CEREMONIAL VILLAGE OF ORONGO This emerald hued village is easily one of the most spectacular sites on the Island. Located on the southwestern part of the Rano Kau volcano, it was inhabited by the chiefs of the ancient tribes, who hoped to collect the first sacred egg of the manutara bird in the spring season. This celebration had a deep religious significance; it was held in honour of Makemake, the God of Creation. The chiefs and important tribe members built low-lying homes from laminar basalt slabs. Around 54 houses were built on the edge of the Ranu Kau crater. Unlike the houses on the rest of the island (which were made of vegetable fibres), solid walls were built to resist the lashing of the winds. If you are visiting Easter Island, the Rano Kau volcano area is indeed a must-see site. Its deep azure crater lake is a scene of great serenity,

Anakena Beach

perfect for spending a few hours on a sunny day. The area also has a short hiking trail which ends with a towering view of the Pacific Ocean.

MANY THINGS TO SEE If the mystery of caves are your thing, then head for the Ana Te Pahu site – home to so many caves that are within a short distance from each other. Remember to bring a powerful torch; it can get very dark in there! If you love swimming, don't miss Anakena Beach, which is very close to the moai sculptures and graced with swaying palm trees. If you prefer to explore under the surface, there are local diving centres that will guide you to some of the most impressive underground water features. Ovahe Beach, surrounded by cliffs of reddish volcanic origin, is known for its fine pink sand – the result of a blend of volcanic slag and eroded coral.

WHERE TO STAY? One of Easter Island’s highlights is its collection of eco lodges. Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa is conveniently close to the main village of Hanga Roa, and boasts a construction that is inspired on the ceremonial village of Orongo. The resort has a stunning outdoor pool, luxurious spa, and fabulous activity list that includes visits to the beach, bicycle rides, and trekking. It makes an ideal choice for travellers who like to blend fun and adventure. Also highly rated is Posada de Mike Rapu, ensconced in the midst of a nature-filled paradise bearing trees and prairies, and boasting a panoramic view of the Pacific. This resort offers a host of programmes focusing on wellness, archaeology, and photography. There are many things to see and explore on Easter Island but the best way to do so, is with a guide – so that your visit comes to mean much more than taking a humorous selfie! e

The view of the Pacific from Rano Kau

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NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. VM11666 Nueva Andalucia. Beautiful and bright contemporary villa, fully renovated, in the heart of Las Brisas golf valley, open plan kitchen come dining area connecting to the living area, 4 bedrooms, top quality finishes, underfloor heating, air-conditioning, domotic system, and a heated pool. Price: € 2.695.000

NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. VM10683 Spacious villa, second line of Las Brisas golf course, situated on a quiet dead end street with lots of privacy. Bright and luminous, large living areas with luxury finishes. Price: € 1.399.000

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NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. VM11647 Villa situated in a central position of Las Brisas with a lovely view of "La Concha" mountain, 2 bedrooms on the ground floor and 2 bedroom suites upstairs with terrace areas. The property also has private garage and parking. Price: € 1.100.000

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D THE SPOTLIGHT travel

DISCOVER THE OTHER SIDE OF

THE HORIZON Living on or visiting the Marbella coastline, we spend a lot of time looking out to sea and surveying the horizon. In the distance, the outlines of Gibraltar and North Africa sometimes seem close enough to touch – and indeed, whether you take a ferry, yacht or make use of a new half-hour Ryanair flight from Málaga to Tetuan, Morocco is just a short distance away. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

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Tetuan is a white town of Moorish and colonial architecture © Michel Cruz

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Sofitel Tamuda Bay Beach & Spa. The expansive pool deck area offers a choice of swimming pools, lounges and bars © Sofitel

o close and yet so different; the short hop across the western edge of the Mediterranean opens up a world of discoveries and an insight into an exotic realm of casbahs, minarets and the call of the muezzin. It’s all just on the other side of the water we are so familiar with, where historic cities and beautiful mountain ranges mirror those of Andalucía. Despite the impact on the senses of a place that still has an almost medieval feel in places, where the scent of spices and natural fragrances hangs in the air, there are also definite similarities with Andalucía, for if you’re familiar with the white-plastered villages of southern Spain you will come across locations that bear the hallmarks of centuries of interaction between these two shorelines. This link stretches back thousands of years to a time even before the Muslim invasion of Spain, as both sides of the Mediterranean traded, exchanged cultural influences and eventually fell under first Carthaginian and then Roman rule. The colonisation of Spain by Arab and Berber tribes following the invasion in 711 BCE greatly accelerated this process, imbuing Andalucía with a certain North African feel. Nowhere is this connection stronger than between the shorelines of Málaga province and northern Morocco, for when the Moors and Jews of Spain were later expelled in the 16th century, it was in the villages and ports between Tangiers and modern-day Algeria that they settled. Even if you’re not really into history and culture, you will find this sense of recognition within an otherwise thoroughly exotic environment a fascinating play on the senses. Northern Morocco is most definitely Arabic-Berber and Muslim in nature, but the region that lays across the short stretch of

Mediterranean Sea from the Costa del Sol also offers much that we might recognise from our own surroundings.

BEACH RESORTS AND EXPLORATION To begin with, Morocco’s Mediterranean coast has its own ‘Costa del Sol’, a bona fide seaside resort area that feels more like Mijas Costa and Sotogrande than Fuengirola and Torremolinos – which is to say, it is more upmarket and elegant than you may expect. The main part stretches from Marina Smir, just east of Ceuta, to Tamouda Bay and the luxury hotels surrounding the coastal town of Mdiq. Here you will find residential developments set between a stylish, park-like boulevard and long stretches of sandy beach. A charming marina reminiscent of Puerto Banús forms a focal point within the Marina Smir area at the heart of this Moroccan Riviera, which welcomes guests from Europe, the Middle East, the USA, Asia and Morocco itself. Were it not for the Arabic writing, charming seaside towns such as Mdiq and the distant call of the Muezzin, you could imagine yourself to be on the Algarve or the Costa del Sol. However, while modern and luxurious this is unmistakably Morocco, a land where people still wear traditional dress such as Djellabas and the straw hats rimmed with coloured tassels that remind you of the fact that you’re in the Maghreb region, a mix of cultures produced by the Riffian Berbers of this area and the Arabs that invaded it in the 7th century. The result is an enticing blend of culture and luxury that makes it entirely possible to spend one day lounging on the beach and enjoying five-star hotel and spa comforts, while heading off into the surrounding mountains and towns the next.

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Refined style and first class service where French flair and Moroccan design come together © Sofitel

SOFITEL TAMUDA BAY The coastal area caters to a variety of budgets and personal preferences, but a beacon of modern refinement and pampering is the five-star Sofitel Tamuda Bay resort hotel and spa. Set right upon a wide stretch of beach fronting a wonderful expanse of sea that looks straight back at the Costa del Sol, the resort offers a modern interpretation of the local experience – complete with contemporary Moroccan-inspired architecture, expansive pool area with sunbeds, sunken lounge pits, a variety of stylish outdoor bars and eateries and a beach club with nightclub. You can enjoy waiter service from the friendly and attentive staff by the pool or on the beach itself, from where the views take in the sweep of the coast towards Cabo Negro in the east, and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in the west. The accommodation is varied too, offering a choice of spacious hotel rooms, luxurious penthouse-style suites, private villas with concierge service and even attending staff, as well as the very pretty beachside bungalow suites designed with French flair. As the hotel group is French, the resort features a very pleasant blend of French culinary and lifestyle knowhow, combined with a touch of local exoticism that simply adds to the sense of modern exclusivity that the Sofitel exudes. It would be hard to surpass this level of service and pampering, be it in the restaurants, children’s club or the sumptuous spa – everything is laid on for you with a smile and a certain savoir faire, enabling you to simply focus on relaxing, enjoying life and heading out to discover this fascinating part of North Africa.

Fine dining by the beach © Sofitel

The evocative atmosphere of Chefchaouen’s old quarter © Michel Cruz

SPANISH MOROCCO Though we consider it to be simply Arab/Muslim, Morocco is a mosaic of cultural influences that colours different parts of the country. The region in question, for instance, is quite different and far more Mediterranean than Marrakech and the Sahara or Atlas. In fact, by the time it was invaded by the Arabs, the local Berber population had already been interacting with Phoenicians, Romans, Mauritanian kingdoms, Jews and Iberians for centuries. This was followed by contact with the British, Portuguese, Turks, French and Spanish, though the country was

only fully conquered by the latter two at the turn of the twentieth century, having escaped Ottoman rule. While most of Morocco became a French protectorate, Tangiers became a hotbed of intrigue as an international Free City, and the region across from Spain fell under its control in 1913, re-joining the rest of Morocco upon independence in 1956. The almost half century of Spanish rule adds to the tens of thousands of Andalusian Muslims and Jews that settled in this region after they were expelled from Spain shortly after the completion of the Spanish Reconquest, and as a result of these

two factors the Spanish-Andalusian presence in the towns and villages of this domain are clear. For one thing, while Moroccan Arabic and French are the official languages, Spanish is still widely spoken, alongside English and variations of the indigenous Tamazight Berber language. Unlike Marrakech, this is a white-plastered world much like Andalucía, with tightly-packed houses, cobbled streets, little squares and patios, as well as glazed green and azure rooftiles. In many ways, this is the ‘other Andalucía’ – albeit a Muslim one complete with mosques, minarets and the winding labyrinth of the medina.

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RESULTS 2019 IB & GCSE We are once again very proud of our students who consistently achieve incredible results – competing with the highest calibre of students worldwide.

International Baccalaureate - 100% Pass Rate Many of our IB students achieved 36 points or higher (the equivalent of AAA at A-level).

Our Head Girl, Lara Kratzer, gained 42 points in the IB and will be studying Sociology at the University of Edinburgh.

Our IB students now go on to study at some of the world’s best universities, including: • • • • • • • • •

University of Edinburgh, University of Warwick King’s College London University of Exeter University of Bath University of Manchester CEU San Pablo IE University Madrid Amsterdam University

3 A**/3 A*/4 A grades

6 A*/4 A grade

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Chefchaouen is a pleasant play on the senses © Michel Cruz

TETUAN – MOROCCO’S ‘ANDALUSIAN’ CAPITAL The former capital of the Spanish Protectorate of Morocco is not only the point from which General Franco famously plotted his rise to power in Spain, but also a centre of Andalusian Morisco culture. A short drive from the coast along a good, parklined road, it is a bustling city whose fringes are developing into a modern urban area complete with attractive planning and 21st century amenities, but head further into Tetuan and you see the centuries winding back as you near the centre. A good starting point for an excursion through the city is the circular square known as the Plaza de España, situated in the heart of the Spanish colonial part of town and also the site of a functional Catholic cathedral. The streets surrounding this picturesque hub of Spanishness are awash in cafés and shops featuring Spanish names. Venture a little further along the characteristic white and green architecture of Tetuan and you come to an elegant shopping street that was once the base of Jewish merchants. It is an area with old colonial charm, complete with Mediterranean style cafés, though the fact that only men frequent them reminds one that this is Morocco, not Spain or Italy. As if you needed reminding, for before long you come upon

a medina of tiny labyrinthine streets crowded with shops, workshops, shoppers and intense impressions. This is a rather medieval world very different from ours, but one in which you move without ever feeling uncomfortable or unwanted. Moroccans are hospitable people, and willing to share this insight into a way of life that – at least here in the old centre – doesn’t seem to have changed much for centuries.

HEAD INTO THE MOUNTAINS If you search for treasure in the mountains just beyond Tetuan you will surely find it, be it in the form of natural beauty, quaint settlements, or the famed town of Chefchaouen – the blue mountain village first popularised by travellers in the 1950s. Among them were the likes of Mick Jagger and John Lennon, as this region attracted many of the passing hippie-chic crowd of the 1960s, but today Chefchaouen is firmly recognised as a cultural gem and popular with visitors from across the world. That said, you don’t have to shuffle through the charming historic centre, with its beautiful winding streets, little crafts shops, quaint boutique hotels and traditional homes painted in the natural blue pigment that makes Chefchaouen so unique. The result is a shift

from dazzling white to mesmerising shades of blue that somehow calm the senses and install a sense of wellbeing. The fact that the brightly coloured wares displayed against the blue-plastered walls make every photo you take look stunning adds to this sense of happiness, and when you reach the main square and behold the coming and going of people while sipping the delicious local mint tea, you’re close to a state of nirvana. Chefchaouen is a little over an hour’s ride from the coast on reasonably good roads and certainly worth the trip – or even a stay in the Parador or one of the little boutique riads. If you’re not done picking up goodies in the town itself, why not stop at one of the roadside vendors selling pretty Moroccan earthenware? The route leads through natural parks and farmland dotted with houses and flanked by mountain ranges, lakes and wooded areas in a landscape that is not dry but looks a lot like parts of Andalucía. This is reflected in much of the produce found here, from olive oil and oranges to figs and surprisingly good wines, but if you want to experience this region in ultimate luxury that will make even the jaded Marbella set drop their jaws, then head for the Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay. The old quarter of Tetuan © Michel Cruz

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BANYAN TREE TAMOUDA BAY

The luxury private villas offer superlative luxury and comfort © Banyan Tree

To say that the 92 private villas that form part of this exceptional resort beside the beach are five-star is a gross understatement, for the Banyan Tree at Tamouda Bay defies conventional descriptions of hotels and resorts. Laid out over a large area made up of parkland scenery, evocative waterways and peaceful residentonly roads and pathways, the luxuriant villas surround a series of low-rise buildings whose Arabic-inspired architecture is so beautifully balanced that is evokes the palatial splendour of a thousand-and-one nights. For all this, the ‘palaces’ housing the sublime spa, restaurants and concierge hotel and reception are not overtly imposing, but instead tastefully balanced and in harmony with their manicured surroundings. A private beach club completes a complex where visitors at the sumptuously styled and fitted one- and two-bedroom villas have a private butler at their disposal. Gorgeous bathrooms, gardens with their own pools and Jacuzzis, as well as the proximity of select gourmet restaurants on-site complete a superlative offer that attracts an international clientele yet is relatively unknown in Marbella. In terms of luxury and experience, it gives the latter a serious run for its money, something discerning visitors could put to the test as they moor their yacht in nearby Marina Smir or land at Tetuan’s small but well-functioning airport, which recently saw the inauguration of a half-hour Ryan flight from Málaga that brings this region even closer by. With a choice of backpacking, family and Riad venues available, as well as the luxury of the Banyan Tree and the Sofitel, there is every opportunity to make the short voyage across the Mediterranean from the Costa del Sol and discover the pleasures that lie beyond our horizon.

i www.ryanair.com www.sofitel.com/8216 www.banyantree.com/en/morocco/tamouda-bay

The Banyan Tree evokes the ambience of 1001 Nights © Banyan Tree 76 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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PRESENTS

VI LLAAQUI LAFRONTL I NEGOL F Wear epr oudt oi nt r oducey out oas t unni ngf r ont l i negol fv i l l ai nAl oha, Nuev aAndal ucí a. Fi v ebedr oomsens ui t ewi t ht opqual i t i est hr oughouti ncl udi ngunder floorheat i ng.

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D THE SPOTLIGHThotel

Brand N ew Look for t he

VINCCI SELECCIÓN

POSADA DEL PATIO 5*

Interior designer Alejandra Pombo has completely transformed many spaces within Spain – from the spacious offices of Key Capital Partners in Madrid to the graceful Vincci Soho, also in Spain’s capital city. Her work is contemporary, playful, and always a little eclectic. Each project is dipped in originality without sacrificing an iota of warmth. Marisa Cutillas discovers how the designer has made the most of the location, history, and innate beauty of the Vincci Selección Posada del Patio 5*. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VINCCI HOTELS A HOTEL WITH HISTORY The new-look Vincci Selección Posada del Patio 5*, just a three-minute walk from the city centre and El Corte Inglés, is testimony to Pombo’s ability to marry urban influences to the rich historical and cultural heritage of the space being transformed. The land on which the Vincci was built has seen the rise and fall of many ancient civilisations – including the Phoenicians, Arabians, and Christians. The Hotel is built upon a Roman/Arabian stone wall and the remains of the Puerta del Río (‘door to

the Málaga river’). The ancient wall, once hidden beneath the ravages of time, was discovered during renovation work and is now displayed prominently beneath a vertiginous glass walkway. On the day of my visit, a flamenco guitarist delighted our ears with lively music as we tucked into chilled fino and finely cut slices of ham. This underground haven can be hired for events or special evenings and is one of a small list of recommended ancient historical sites by the Málaga Town Hall.

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RETURN TO THE VINCCI’S ESSENCE The Hotel’s new design celebrates medieval and Arabian cultural influences, with a brand new patio that combines natural light, lush green foliage, and a rejuvenated ambience. The patio is the ideal spot for a cup of coffee while reading your email. Its atmosphere is breezy and its walls embellished with figures of a flock of birds in flight. Delicate skylights lend luminosity to the spot and complement the warmly lit lobby and breakfast areas – also on the ground floor – to perfection. Common spaces are graced with iron columns and rich ornamentation; the ceilings

are dotted with detailed prints of flowers and jungle-like plants while the reception desk is covered by a thatched/wooden construction that is shaped much like a Filipino paypay (a fan made by hand with dried leaves). The ambience in the reception and breakfast areas is youthful, playful, and almost tropical. Diverse influences bounce off each other in a gentle harmony that appeals to the senses.

THE FIRST FIVE-STAR HOTEL IN MÁLAGA The Vincci Selección Posada del Patio 5* was the first five-star hotel

to be built in Málaga. It boasts 106 rooms, as well as a rooftop pool area with fantastic views of the city. Its culinary offerings are topnotch, thanks to different ‘concepts’ served at varying times of the day. La Posada Food&Living serves traditional Andalusian recipes which are jazzed up with the sophistication of modern cuisine. At lunch time, La Taberna de la Posada provides traditional inn-style platters that are ideal for sharing with others. After sunset, Entremuros invites diners to travel through time, enjoying cuisine prepared in Málaga throughout the ages. For an informal meal or a cup

of coffee, it’s got to be La Posada Food&Drinks – where you can order a snack and a chilled glass of wine at any time of the day. The Vincci hopes to be so much more than a place to rest after a day out in the City. Throughout the year, it will be offering a host of artistic, musical, and cultural events. It is also known among Malagueños as a top venue in which to enjoy a romantic meal. If an evening at the theatre and a day of shopping sounds like fun, why not pack your bags and book a night at this elegant yet lively hotel? i www.vinccihoteles.com

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D THE SPOTLIGHT print marketing

WHY PRINT MARKETING STILL HAS A PLACE IN MARKETING STRATEGY

The boom in online communication has done plenty to dampen the stronghold once possessed by print media. While it is true that many excellent publications have shut shop over the past decade (the Audit Bureau of Circulation in the UK reports a five per cent fall in overall print circulation), print is flourishing in many specific sectors. In the UK, although business and finance news and current affairs publications have dropped by six per cent, domestic news and current affairs titles have grown by one per cent. The Spectator is a huge success story, selling more than it ever has and enjoying a seven per cent year-on-year growth. The Economist, meanwhile, has increased its circulation by eight per cent year-on-year. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

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RIDING THE WAVE OF PRINT SUCCESS

PRINT IS MORE THAN THE DAILY RAG

What makes one publication a big success and the other obsolete? The answer, is content. The Editor of The Spectator, Fraser Nelson, told Printweek.com that “Digital is behind the renaissance of print. Our website brings millions of people and they can read two articles a week before being invited to subscribe for full access. When they do, the vast majority choose our print and digital package.” Specialisation is another pillar of success. The Audit Bureau of Circulation report shows that there has been a big decline in the popularity of women’s general interest publications. Simultaneously, however, the men’s lifestyle sector is booming, as are the sectors of travel, equestrian, photography, mountain sports, and literature. It’s a mad world for print publications, with changing interests making or breaking business success. If one thing is evident, however, it is that successful publications are those with writers who specialise in the areas they are covering – be it local luxury destinations, adventure travel, or artistic pursuits.

As mentioned above, many current affairs and leisure titles are continuing to enjoy great success. One of the shining examples is Forbes, now over 100 years old and beating sales records. Of course, print marketing involves much more than putting together a magazine or newspaper. It includes catalogues, newsletters, booklets, reports, and technical/legal information that can be very useful for your target audience. On a local basis, we can observe several ways that print marketing is used successfully. Take DM Properties’ Marbella Real Estate Market Report – which displays the most important trends in the real estate sector. Equally useful are Pérez Legal Group’s free guides, which cover areas like tax, purchasing and selling homes, etc. If you do read reports like these (containing detailed information, graphs, legal articles, etc.) which do you think would be easier – scrolling down page after page online, or having a booklet in your hand that you can mark, highlight, and attach post-its to for further reference? There is indeed something about financial and technical information that lends itself to the tactile nature of print.

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WHAT DOES PRINT MEAN TO THE AVERAGE PERSON? A survey by Marketing Sherpa found that 82 per cent of Internet users “trust print ads when making a purchase decision – making print the most accredited form of advertising.” Web Strategies, meanwhile, states that “the act of physically engaging with a print marketing item, like menus or rack cards, has been shown to increase customer recall and information retention.” There is no doubt that digital marketing is key to any business success, but the barrage of online information, phishing scams, false online promises etc., have led many customers to lose confidence in companies that do not have a consolidated physical presence. Print can bridge that gap. When customers send clients quality catalogues, for instance, it is easier to view the company as one with a certain prestige and commitment.

PROFITABLE PRINT Various surveys have shown that the return on print is high. For instance, PrintIsBig.com notes that in the U.S., advertisers who spent $167 per person on direct mail in 2015, earned $2,095 – amounting to a return of over 1,000 per cent. InfoTrends, meanwhile, found that 66 per cent of direct mail is opened, and 62 per cent of people who respond to direct mail make a purchase from the company that sent it to them. This trend is definitely not limited to Generation X and above. In a study on millennials as consumers, Quad.com

found that 62 per cent of millennials rely on advertising inserts to compare prices, and 49 per cent do so to make shopping lists. Up to 60 per cent of millennials in America use direct mail to clip coupons entitling them to discounts. Who said millennials only had time for smartphones and tablets? On the whole, the savviest companies are using both print and digital marketing for optimal success. Almost half of all customers visit a company’s website after coming across print marketing. Direct mail continues to be the most efficient ways for charities to bring in donations, since the majority of consumers still see print as the most trustworthy advertising medium.

WHAT FUTURE DO THE EXPERTS FORESEE FOR PRINT? Forbes recently asked top communication executives one important question: ‘Where do you see print in the future of advertising? The answers were all different, but interestingly, the majority view capturing an audience’s attention as a sensory thing. Print very much has a role to play in marketing because of its ability to appeal to the sense of touch, sight, and even smell. According to Good e-Reader, eBook sales declined by 4.9 per cent in January, 2019. Can you imagine yourself reading Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones in digital format? Send me the hardback copy, please! Anything else would almost be an insult to Tolkien and Martin.

WORD FROM THE EXPERTS In the Forbes article mentioned above, Dave Matli of Matli Consulting stated that print would continue to be valuable where there was a physical customer presence. Imagine waiting at a plastic surgeon’s office and reading an informative booklet on a new non-surgical face filler procedure, for instance. Ashley Murphy of Stribling & Associates, meanwhile, notes that luxury customers still value tangible items. Glossy publications which are stunning to look at, she notes, simply cannot be rivalled by online sites. Many executives also feel that print and digital will continue to co-exist, but they will have to complement each other more seamlessly. Finally, print will remain the choice publication for hyper-local markets. Thus, publications like our own – Magazine, continue to appeal for three major reasons: local (expert) knowledge, appealing visuals, and quality in content, design and presentation. One of the most interesting of the opinions expressed was that of Brandon Ortiz of Salesforce. org. He noted, “The ubiquity of digital media has given print media a strange new power. Think of how special it is to get a written letter as opposed to an email.” A beautifully printed brochure or magazine, he noted, can leave a very nice impression indeed when it makes its way to an executive’s desk. Best of all, there is a very strong chance he/she will read it!

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It is amazing to think that in a world in which Instagram influencers seem to create and break trends, a magazine like Vogue continues to have the power it does. Currently, contributing editors include Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss – both of whom have the clout it takes to make the magazine worth picking up. Vogue is and always has been seen as the bastion of high fashion – a world that is inhabited by designers, top models, and the great Anna Wintour herself rather than by everyday fashion lovers.

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ACING THE GAME

PUBLICATIONS

SEA SHEPHERD CONSERVATION SOCIETY YOU EAT WHAT THEY EAT CAMPAIGN

International marine wildlife organisation, the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, relied on German ad agency, Ogilvy, to come up with an attention-catching print ad that depicted sea life misshapen by plastic objects. The motto of the poster, ‘You Eat What They Eat’, aims to highlight the damage caused to our oceans by the millions of tonnes of plastic that are dumped into our oceans every year.

From global airline companies to fashion brands, businesses are increasingly publishing their own lifestyle and product/service material. Here are just a few of those that have gone beyond simply showcasing products. They all have an ability to connect with their audience, but also to inspire customers to continue enjoying the lifestyle their brand represents. RHAPSODY MAGAZINE

This beautiful glossy publication by United Airlines is catered to high-end travellers. It features exclusive interviews with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars – including Emily Blunt and Robert De Niro, as well as features on luxury cars, architecture and design, technology, fashion and beauty, sport, and of course, travel!

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

This magazine has a circulation of around 6.5 million copies per month worldwide. Featuring stunning photos of some of the most fascinating corners of the globe, it is the official publication of the National Geographic Society – a global nonprofit organisation committed to exploring and protecting our planet.

HERE MAGAZINE

Here Magazine is a print publication by young luggage and travel company, Away. Company President, Jen Rubio, decided to publish the magazine (which she called “a start-up within a 15-person start-up”) after she observed that many customers

were requesting travel tips. A copy of the magazine is now included in every piece of luggage sold. As Rubio told Adweek. com, “We had an amazing distribution platform because it’s going in the suitcase, so it means that anyone who’s buying it has a certain amount of income, is about to travel, and we knew exactly the demographic it was going to because we were a direct-to-consumer company and these are our customers.” The magazine contains cracking travel articles and tips and dynamic images that make a perfect read during a lazy Sunday breakfast. Adweek notes that this is just one of many new print publications being started by young start-ups wishing to give customers added value and establish their brand as one to be reckoned with. There could not be a better indicator of the human penchant for print than Amazon’s announcement of its intention to expand its physical retail presence via more bookstores. It is ironic, since many would say that Amazon’s game plan initially involved shutting bookstores down. There

is a psychological reason why print will always have an important place in the human experience. Salon.com hit the nail on the head when it stated: “…evidence from laboratory experiments, polls and consumer reports indicates that modern screens and e-readers fail to adequately recreate certain tactile experiences of reading on paper that many people miss and, more importantly, prevent people from navigating long texts in an intuitive and satisfying way. In turn, such navigational difficulties may subtly inhibit reading comprehension. Compared with paper, screens may also drain more of our mental resources…” Studies have shown that comprehension is higher when reading traditional books, but so is enjoyment. If anything beats receiving a book in the mail that you have been eager to read for a long time (my most recent find was André Aciman’s Call Me By Your Name), then maybe it’s time for you to forego print. Until then, there is no reason why print cannot hold its own alongside the massive, sweeping onslaught of digital media. e ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM SEPTEMBER 2019 / 87

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D THE SPOTLIGHT cats

G N I S I T R E V T A C and nternet ng I e h t r e i v taking o are claw Cats are ssonality’ pets ans. In some ‘puns for their humonth (only in in millio to Happy Cat M ckett looks homage , lol) Belinda Befelines. America scination with at our fa

Cats are going for

world domination

online

I

n the back alleys of the Internet, the cat is king and no one is more surprised than Sir Tim Berners Lee. When asked what he least expected from Internet use today, the founder of the World Wide Web answered in a word: “Kittens”. He might have meant Maru, a Scottish Fold cat from Japan who rules YouTube with over 325 million views; Nala Cat, a cute tabby-Siamese cross with Bush Baby eyes and four million Instagram followers; rescue cat Sockington, Tsar of Twitter, whose quest for fish is a daily delight to his 1.2 million fans, ‘The Army of Sock’; or just the kitten next door. Behavioural psychologists say the Internet has become ‘a virtual dog park for the world’s cat owners’ where they can share experiences just like Fido’s owners in a real park. There are more than two million cat videos circulating on YouTube with over 26 billion

views. That’s an average of 12,000 views apiece. Get the ‘catvertising’ right – paid at rates ranging from one-to-ten dollars per 1,000 views – and you could be putting a lot more away in the kitty than the £250 You’ve Been Framed pays! Cat images have been slinking around the Internet since its inception in the 1980s. But in 2007 the ‘cat meme’ became a viral phenomenon on I Can Has Cheezburger?, a website specialising in cutesy cat photos with grammatically endearing captions. ‘Lolcats’ and ‘lolspeak ‘became everyday words in the online lexicon and ‘catvertising’ became a marketing strategy. Now everyone from telecom brands and insurance companies to Pizza Hut and Honey Nut Cheerios are jumping on the catvertising gravy train – regardless of the relevance! In 2011, Cravendale Milk’s hilarious What If Cats Had Thumbs video creamed it with more than seven

million YouTube views and an eight per cent sales increase. A ‘control’ commercial featuring a bog standard cow received a paltry 220,000 views. Cat posts generate 3.5 times more viral traffic than any other topic and even ‘out-purrform’ selfies as the content we love to post most. The Brits, historically a nation of dog lovers, share more than 3.8 million cat pictures and videos on social media daily compared to 1.4 million selfies. The online explosion is actually helping to cut the number of strays, with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home reporting a steady rise in feline adoptions over the last decade. As well as their fluff appeal and entertainment value, watching these furry wrecking balls at play is a panacea for our mental health, so it’s a fair bet that we’ll continue to see pussies galore padding through social media networks and advertising campaigns. But next time you chuckle at a lolcat, remember there’s an Internetsavvy media mogul who’s laughing even louder.

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MEMORABLE MEWMENTS

Celebricats

Some cats have got the cream. There are moggies out there coining in six figure salaries for their humans and your pet doesn’t even have to be gorgeous, talented or even alive to get onto the Furbes (sic) Rich List. Take Keyboard Cat, a ginger tom dressed in a blue shirt ‘paw-forming’ on an electronic keyboard in a computer-manipulated video that went viral in 2007, 20 years after the cat’s demise. Fatso, as he was called in real life, puss-thumously earned his American owner fur-nomenal advertising sums from his mew-sical turn. It has 55 million YouTube views and still counting! If you have a cat and the patience to film it, you could both be eating kobe beefsteak dinners like Lil Bub. The runt of a feral

litter, she hit the big time in 2011 because of her bug-eyed perma-kitten look, the happy result of a debilitating bone condition called osteopetrosis (not a pun). Bub produced a single for Breeders guitarist Kelley Deal, interviewed Michelle Obama on her YouTube channel and has met Robert De Niro, hiss spit. She was also invited to so many strangers’ weddings that owner Mike Bridavsky ceased to be surprised. “The weirdest thing about having a famous cat,” he says, “is when it stops being weird.” But for the Kim Kardashian of the kitty world (net worth, not looks), Grumpy Cat, RIP 2018, took the Friskies biscuit (and they endorsed her). Her sourpuss face, caused by feline dwarfism, was her fortune and she’d clawed in $100m by the time she was two. This New York magazine cover gal had it all – the agent, The New York Times best-seller, the Facebook page with over seven million ‘licks’, an animatronic waxwork at Madame Tussauds and her own beverage brand – Grumppuccino coffee.

Z GREENPEACE’S CATS SAVE TIGERS CAMPAIGN. Headlined ‘The biggest cats online help save the biggest cats in the wild’, their cute video starring Lil Bub (dressed as a tiger) went viral, spreading the word that tigers are at risk. Z O2’S BE MORE DOG COMMERCIALS. Starring a cat that adopts dog behaviour to get more out of life – like catching balls and leaping into the swimming pool – it was pitched to promote the telecom company’s products by ‘encouraging the nation to lose their cat-like indifference and be more doggedly adventurous’. It received 31,700 shares in a week. Z CARTOON CAT HELLO KITTY, created by Japanese company Sanrio, is the world’s second highest-grossing media franchise after Pokémon. The cute motif modelled on the Japanese Bobtail cat has generated $80 billion in product licenses for everything from toys and clothes to TV series and theme parks. Z THE SHOULD’VE GONE TO SPECSAVERS ADS. Our favourite’s the 2014 version with the short-sighted vet who thinks his assistant’s furry hat is a cat in cardiac arrest. The current ad features a handyman putting a catflap into the top of a glass door while a frustrated ball of fluff tries to jump through. Z IKEA’S HAPPY INSIDE COMMERCIALS. The Swedish firm herded 100 house cats into its Wembley store and allowed them to run amok while the cameras rolled for its 2011 campaign. The series has been parodied worldwide and the ‘making of’ video also went viral. e

Lil Bub’s kit ten -cat looks earn her kobe beef dinners

Grumpy Cat wa

s the Kim Karda

shian of the kit ty

world

Hello Kitty is the world’s secondbiggest media franchise

Cats have saved tigers online

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D THE SPOTLIGHT senior masters cup

MARBELLA’S OWN INTERNATIONAL TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP

IV SENIOR

MASTERS CUP WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TENNIUM

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From Friday 27th September to Saturday 28th, Marbella’s prestigious Puente Romano tennis club will once again play host to one of the most fun-filled tournaments on the international circuit: the IV Senior Masters Cup 2019.

S

ince its re-establishment a few years ago, the annual Senior Masters Cup has once again become a much-loved part of Marbella and its annual calendar of social and sporting events, adding a touch of glamour and occasion that is very much in keeping with a place like this. In fact, Marbella requires and deserves events of this kind, and the annual senior tennis tournament not only helps to keep the luxury resort town on the international map but also is perfectly timed as we ‘locals’ come down from the busy summer season and can enjoy one of the best months of the year in style. The venue, as ever, is the refined surroundings of the Hotel Puente Romano’s Tennis Club. One of the pillars of the game in this region, it was originally headed by tennis legend Bjorn Borg, followed by Spanish Wimbledon champion Manolo Santana, and remains an iconic and atmospheric spot whose ambience and pedigree make it the perfect location for an international tennis competition of this kind. The stars that have delighted crowds here over the years include Henri Leconte, Carlos Moyá, Marat Safin, Juan Carlos Ferrero, Goran Ivanisevic, Michael Stich and Sebastien Grosjean, to name just a few. A regular favourite has been Yannick Noah, winner of the 1983 French Open title, but also famous for his antics on the court, and his post-tournament reggae concerts. The 2017 edition of the Marbella Senior Masters Cup also had the honour of seeing another tennis legend and friend of the town, John McEnroe, end his playing career on its clay courts. The tournament is therefore all about seeing tennis greats at work, enjoying quality tennis in a fun, convivial atmosphere, and enjoying the hospitality and easy-going vibe for which both the Puente Romano and Marbella are well known. With its line-up and programming, the 2019 edition promises to be every bit as special as in previous years.

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2019 EDITION This year sees Feliciano López, Tommy Robredo, David Ferrer and Tommy Haas lined up for two semi-finals on Friday 27th September, and the 3rd-4th place play off and final held on Saturday 28th. The Senior Masters is an event organised by Tennium, an international tennis platform that also manages tournaments such as the ATP 250 championships of Antwerp and Buenos Aires, as well as representing top players and talents like Spaniards Marc López and Lara Arruabarrena, and international stars Sorana Cîrstea, Marie Bouzková, Zizou Bergs and Victoria Jiménez Kasintseva. Their know-how and sports management pedigree are evident in all the tournaments under the company’s banner, with the Marbella Senior Masters forms one of the jewels in the crown. It is thanks to its standing in the global game that Tennium is able to attract top players – both veteran legends and currently active tennis stars – to the clay courts of the Puente Romano year-in, year-out, and this year we can marvel at the agility, speed and skill of active tour players Tommy Robredo and Feliciano López of Spain.

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THE PLAYING FIELD: final performances at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, he just didn’t make it to a grand slam final, but like Robredo, has been on the comeback trail since 2013 and remains a force to be reckoned with. With full-professional tennis still fresh in his legs, Tommy Haas could be another potential favourite for the title. Z DAVID FERRER – originally from Jávea, a coastal resort town on the Costa Blanca, David Ferrer is a French Open finalist who both ranks as a big name at the Marbella Senior Masters Cup and is a regular participant. Not surprisingly, he feels very much at home here, and the three-time winner of the Davis Cup is perhaps the biggest favourite to snatch ultimate victory in Marbella this year. First, he’ll have to overcome Tommy Haas, a tie that presents itself as the kind of mouthwatering tennis match that we’ve come to love hosting in Marbella over the past few years, so make sure you’re there for the glamour, the atmosphere, the fun and, of course, fantastic tennis!

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Z TOMMY ROBREDO peaked at fifth in the world ranking. The Catalan star loves the red clay of Puente Romano and knows how to triumph, having won the Hamburg Masters title in 2006 and the Davis Cup for Spain in 2004, 2008 and 2009. For the past five years, he has been enjoying a second wind in his career, making it to the quarter finals of some of the grand slam tournaments such as the French and US Opens. Smart money would keep an eye on him for this year’s Marbella title. Z FELICIANO LÓPEZ – the Toledoborn star is a handy player who has consistently accumulated ranking points and prize money over the years, winning several titles along the way, including the 2016 Mens Doubles at the French Open. His strong serve and play at the net have ‘netted’ him a total of seven title wins in all, and they also make him a little ‘un-typical’ for a Spanish player, with an elegant style of play more akin to that of legends like Pete Sampras or even Roger Federer. Z TOMMY HAAS represents the non-Spanish contingent in this year’s Senior Masters Cup. With 15 career titles and a highest ranking at second in the world, he is not merely making up the numbers either. With semii www.seniormasterscup.com

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D THE SPOTLIGHT motoring

f o s r a e Y 100

BENTLEY A HISTORY OF SPEED WORDS SAM HEXTER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BENTLEY

In an age of Instagram and influencers, casual admirers might draw closer association between Bentley and Premiership footballers rather than speed, a defined pedigree in motorsport and sheer engineering finesse. But they’d be completely wrong. THE ALPHA Under the steadfast efforts of W.O. Bentley, the first motorcar to bear his name was revealed to the public in London, 1919. This would be the initial step in a relentless, century-long pursuit of unparalleled excellence. Born in 1888, the youngest of nine siblings, Walter Owen Bentley (W.O.) gave early signs to a love of engineering and all things in-motion. Spending his youth disassembling bicycles, his interest quickly developed to steam-powered locomotives and trains. He would go on to complete an apprenticeship with the Great Northern Railway, before achieving a childhood dream of operating a steam locomotive of his own. But his curiosities would then

escalate again, this time, to the road. After many successful years building and racing motorcycles, W.O. went into business with one of his brothers in 1912, importing Doriot, Flandrin & Parant (DFP) cars from across the Channel in France. During this time, W.O. began to gain true momentum with his mastery of engineering – developing the world’s first ever aluminium pistons. He refined these new bespoke

pistons and added them to DFP cars. This was the catalyst that truly put W.O. on the racing map, landing him several victories at Brooklands and enabling him to set a new 89.7 mph world record for the flying mile.

Bentley Continental GT - Tungsten - 4

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The Bentley Continental: Evolution of an icon

NEW DAWN After the war had come to its bloody conclusion, W.O. Bentley’s efforts in the great struggle were recognised by the prestigious merit of an MBE in 1919. He was also given a grant by the Commission of Awards to Inventors. This meant he now had the financial viability to fulfil his dream and start his own motor company. And on 10th July 1919, he did just that. First up in Bentley’s esteemed catalogue, was the Bentley 3-Litre. Making it into production between 1921 and 1929, the 3-Litre dominated countless races and motoring events, most notably winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1924 and then again in 1927. The success of the 3-Litre can still be felt in cars that make up the company’s modern line-up – engines that develop huge amounts of torque from very low rpms. Horsepower headlines sell cars, but it’s torque that wins races. Following the continued success of the 3-Litre on track, and with numerous orders coming thick and fast from the London aristocracy and even members of the royal family, W.O. began working on a larger, six-cylinder 6.5 litre variant – known affectionately as the Big Six, later the Speed Six. Both a 4.5-litre and a huge 8-litre variant would also see production up until 1930. Designed primarily as road cars, these larger Monoblock motors also saw great podium-finish successes on track. The 8-Litre would go on to be the last car ever delivered by W.O., a vehicle many consider his masterpiece. Only 100 were ever made due to the unfortunate global financial turn after the Wall Street Crash. But the design philosophy of the 8-Litre has survived the test of time and lives on in the company’s ethos today. Bentley would then take a 73 year-long hiatus from racing but returned in spectacular fashion with the Bentley Speed 8. The car debuted in 2001 and went on to a dominant victory at Le Mans in 2003 – a true return to form. The marque now enjoys continued thunderous success in GT class racing thanks to its spectacular Continental GT3 motorsport derivative.

1929 Bentley 4½ litre Birkin ‘Blower’

His experimental accomplishments with aluminium in motorcars didn’t stop there. During the First World War, W.O. served as a Captain in the Royal Naval Air Service where he deployed his innovative aluminium components within a whole new niche – military aviation. W.O. used his skills and experience to create an engine for fighter aircraft, making them more powerful and more reliable than ever before. The first Bentley Rotary engine was then born and went on to make the now iconic Sopwith Camel the most successful British fighter plane of the great war.

W.O. Bentley

Bentley Blower

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1925 Bentley 6½ Litre exterior

and interior

THE CENTENARY As the marque celebrates its century anniversary year, a complete refresh of some of the brands most iconic vehicles has taken place. The flagship Continental GT, which has seen continuous production since 2003, has received a full makeover. With a stunning new superformed shape and brand-new potent powertrain, the new Continental GT is a true grand touring heavyweight. Bentley’s signature W12 engine returns, but in an all new guise. The fresh twin-turbo, 6-litre 12-cylinder motor now generates a staggering 626 bhp and 664 lbs-ft of torque. That’s enough to shove the 2.2 tonne titan to 100 km/h in a mere 3.7 seconds and onto a top speed of 333 km/h – true super GT levels of performance. And harping back to Bentley’s motorsport roots, in this huge milestone year, the new

Continental GT now holds the record as the fastest production car ever to race up the summit of the infamous Pikes Peak Hill Climb in Colorado. Bentley also debuted the rejuvenated Flying Spur – a new pinnacle in the luxury saloon class. Powered by the same W12 twin-turbo configuration as the Continental, the new Flying Spur offers an incomparable calibre and delivers an assertive, regal presence on road. The revised exterior offers exquisite chrome detailing, highlighting the ultra-wide proportions of the nose and long hood. But the most notable update is the opportunity for customers to specify the new Flying B mascot on the bonnet. It’s the first time since the 1950s that the Flying B will be offered to customers and is an option that is sure to set future collectable models

apart. This subtle nod to the past is sure to keep the rich heritage of Bentley alive. Bentleys of today and their motors of old share such a beautiful, delicate and distinguished character, paired with muscular, powerful engines. There is a certain low-volume, hand-crafted quality that can’t be matched, and is rare to find in any other marque, regardless of class. The look of every hand-stitched panel, the smell of the waxy leather hides, the texture of each hand-sewn Bentley emblem in the headrest of every single seat. Bentley cars embody something fine. Something undeniably, quintessentially British and it’s a pure joy to behold, to feel under your fingertips and to hear as you carve your way across continents in any pick of the modern Bentley range.

Bentley Continental GT - Extreme Silver - MECOTY

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1924 LeMans Winning 3 Litre Bentley

1925 Bentley 6½ Litre

EVOLUTION OF EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEYS To usher Bentley through its rich past century and into the modern era in spectacular contemporary fashion, the EXP 100 GT Concept was shown to an eager public for the very first time – 100 years to the day that W.O. founded the world-renowned motoring superlative. The EXP 100 GT explores how grand touring could evolve with the next generation and beyond. This electrifying look into the future boasts design cues that clearly take influence from models present and past; from the gaping front grille, diamondlike circular headlights and an unmistakably Bentley silhouette.

The EXP 100 GT’s outer shell appears brawny and thick. The scale of the thing is as dramatic as its styling, measuring a staggering 5.8 meters from front to tail and boasting two-meter wide doors that open upward to arouse a true sense of theatre and occasion. The interior exhibits similarly futuristic features. Designers claim the car will showcase next-level artificial intelligence in order to tailor the entire driving experience to suit the mood of those in the car, with modes to effect lighting, sound and even smells within the cabin. Bentley claim it will create

a ‘wellness-enriching’ driving environment with never before seen ‘adaptable biometric seating’. Whatever the future holds for these marvellous, meticulously hand-crafted machines, I am certainly excited to see what comes next and hope these opulent cars from Crewe continue to be built for generations to come. For me, Bentley truly represents the perfect blend of speed and luxury. Performance and opulence. And I remain in a constant state of awe whenever I’m in the presence of the results of this century-long endeavour. i Available from www.marbella.bentleymotors.com

The Bentley EXP 100 GT

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D THE SPOTLIGHTmotoring

FERRARI F8 TRIBUTO With rivals like McLaren and Aston Martin creating superfast variants of existing cars, it obviously wasn’t going to be long before Ferrari entered the fray. Coming very soon is the F8 Tributo, a replacement for the much-praised 488GTB, and it’s good enough to have competitors heading back to their design offices. WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FERRARI

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lthough the Tributo looks a lot like the 488GTB, it actually has a fair number of aerodynamic enhancements around the exterior and one of two other subtle elements to give it a character of its own. Some aspects of the bodywork prompt memories of past Ferraris, especially the four round rear lights

that evoke the beautiful Dino of 1968. The bodyshell is also a fair bit lighter than that of the GTB and this counts for a lot when performance is at stake. Several surface components are fabricated from carbon fibre and the rear window is made from Lexan thermoplastic. The svelte profile with its strategically placed air ducts and spoilers draws on Ferrari’s extensive experience in the racing sphere. Even the underside of the new car plays a critical part in overall performance. The company takes more trouble than most

rivals when it comes to aerodynamics, as witnessed by the huge wind tunnel that dominates the factory in Maranello. Visit Ferrari and it’s the first thing you’ll see! The Tributo boasts a most impressive engine – a 710-horsepower mid-mounted V-8 with a pair of turbochargers, the most powerful eight-cylinder ever to be mounted in a production (non-special series) Ferrari. This powerhouse has found its way into other models from Maranello with various output levels and Ferrari has described it as “the best 8-cylinder in the world,” which may not be far from the truth. In other guises, the same engine won a wide range of awards, including accolades from International Engine of the Year. Transmission is a 7-speed automatic that can shift faster than any human operating a manual box. Very few supercar manufacturers offer manual transmissions these days.

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THE SPIRIT OF PROJECT STRIPE SLIDING DOORS, ZENIT WALK-IN CLOSET, PLANET COFFEE TABLE DESIGN G.BAVUSO

RIMADESIO SHOWROOM MARBELLA AVDA CANÒVAS DEL CASTILLO 10, 29601 MARBELLA – TEL +34 952857066 – MARBELLA@RIMADESIO.COM MÁS INFORMACIÓN EN RIMADESIO.COM

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Expectedly, handling has been refined to match the output of this new Ferrari and, again, the company draws on racing knowhow to get the right combination of performance and comfort. As with most cars now, the Tributo uses electronics to enhance dynamic safety and if things do get a little out of hand, big Brembo brakes take care of business in that department. The interior is typically Ferrari with a driver-oriented layout and exceptionally snug

seats. Like all cars in this class, occupants have to thread themselves in, but once in place, it’s a very comfortable and safe driving environment. Anyone with Ferrari experience will feel right at home in it first time out. The instrument panel is a very attractive classic design but also, of course, electronic. A 7-inch touchscreen takes care of infotainment duties, but most occupants will get all the fun they need simply from riding in this outstanding and welcome new Ferrari. e

Z ENGINE: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V-8 710-horsepower. Z TRANSMISSION: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 2.9-seconds. Z TOP SPEED: 340 km/h. Z I LIKED: Subtle bodywork changes compared to the 488GTB add up to very fresh and characterful styling. Awesome power unit and a major accomplishment for a V-8. Excellent quality and cockpit ambiance. Z I DIDN’T LIKE: Lack of an all-wheel drive system for maximum traction may divert some buyers to the Lamborghini Aventador. Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: McLaren 720S, Porsche 911 GT2 RS, Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, Lamborghini Aventador. Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Ferrari faithful will be first in line for this one, but the horsepower and dynamics technology might well coax buyers away from other supercar nameplates. Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Available soon. No price yet, but the model it replaces (488 GTB) cost €210.000. i Available from: www.cdesalamancamarbella.com

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D THE SPOTLIGHT icons

LP/MC

MUSIC FORMATS KILLED BY TECH THEN BECAME COOL If you thought you have to reach a certain advanced age to again appreciate things that you thought you’d almost forgotten, then you’d be wrong. WORDS MARK FR WILKINS

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was recently in a ‘vintage shop’ deep in the heart of the cool London district of Hoxton famed for its eclectic mix of old council blocks, new towers and reclaimed industrial buildings. At the rear of the shop were an impressive array of ‘vintage’ HiFi, a simple Denon turntable, an amp and a small pair of Wharfdale speakers. On another shelf was a Sony music cassette (MC) system, the ‘TC-133CS’ with wood effect body and integrated speakers. My sister owned the identical model in the late 1970s. The price tag of the former was meteoric whereas the latter was more modest. Some items disappear altogether as technology sidesteps their process, perhaps the best examples being the Polaroid or SLR ‘film’ cameras. Then, in what may appear to be the application of the handbrake in the relentless progress of technology, having thought you’d never see them again, they are revived to satisfy a shifting market.

Spoilt by the sound of the purest digital, a new generation is seeking the crackle of analogue – perhaps a more authentic sound. To satisfy the yearning of this market there has been a massive rise in the demand for iconic long playing records or ‘LPs’ and the equipment to play them on. Techies will tell you that the regular digital MP3 format used to store your music on your favourite streaming service is phonically far inferior to that of an original LP. Ask the question and before you glaze over you will hear words such as compression and EQ used. The ‘purity’ of the MP3’s digital format filters out the highs and lows of the authentic rattle and hum that seems to contribute enormously to the listener’s enjoyment of the LP format. As a result, audiophiles are turning their backs on the ‘mastered from CD’ versions of their favourite vinyl, to seek out original or repressed vinyl LPs to enjoy on their turntables.

Your ‘cool’ credentials will be off the scale by those vinyl LP’s that have been languishing in storage since the early 1990s, when you purchased your favourite albums on Compact Disc. They can be dusted off and rather than sending them to the community tip they have acquired a new street value. Simon and Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water, first released in January 1970, can be purchased as a CBS classic vinyl for £15.00. However, earlier pre-CD pressings – not even the first edition – will change hands at £100 plus. Record stores which were dominated by cardboard sleeves – often pieces of art in their own right – of 12”vinyl LPs and Extended Play (EPs) poured over by Club DJs and students in Army Surplus parkas, have acquired a new cache. LPs, or more precisely 78rpm phonographs, were originally made of shellac, a resin secreted by the female ‘lac’ bug on trees in the Far East. By the 1950s, LPs were

being made of a recyclable plastic compound, polyvinyl chloride or ‘PVC’. The original sound recordings were incorporated from master tape into production masters by a process called ‘mastering’. Several artists are known to have insisted, almost as a superstition, that those engineers who’d mastered previously successful albums should control this process. Mastering gave a special aural dynamic to the production master, readying it for pressing. Test pressings or ‘acetates’ would often be made to test the aural quality and these limited play versions of the finished record are sought after by collectors. A fire in 2008 at an archive at Universal Studios is said to have resulted in the destruction of many irreplaceable original master tapes including those by Ray Charles, Neil Young and Nirvana.

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The analogue process comprises a series of modulated spiral grooves that usually ran from the outer edge of the record and ended towards the centre. In the manufacturing process, PVC would be injected into mounds holding the production masters for the A&B side of the LP and then squeezed to comprise two sides of the LP. The most popular was the 12” vinyl version that held an album’s worth of material, comprising recordings of perhaps ten to twelve songs, which may have had a theme or a narrative that connected them together. These larger format records rotated on a turntable at 331/3 rpm. Smaller and cheaper double sided 7” records, containing usually two songs, one on its ‘A’ side and a second on its reverse or ‘B’ side and called ‘Singles’ emerged in the late 1950’s. They usually featured a lead track or ‘A’ side that was designated primarily for the Top 40 chart eligibility and the ‘B’ side was often a less commercial recording by the same artist. These 7” records rotated at 45 rpm. 7” Singles with the hole in the centre seemingly too large for a conventional record player were called ‘dinked’ singles and intended primarily for jukeboxes. In the clubbing years of the late 1980s and early 1990s, DJs called for EP mixes of Singles and these tended to be compiled onto another form of 12” that rotated usually at 45 rpm and contained several different

mixes of the same song allowing the DJ to chose which to play or which to mix with other records on their deck. Until the boom of revival for vinyl releases it was primarily the DJ community which sustained a modest demand for such releases. While the new and young market has rediscovered the Vinyl album, the rediscovery of music cassettes (MC) has also occurred but more slowly. A friend was recently sorting our some old boxes accumulated since the early 1980s when he came across a sticker stuck on a box of MCs. It had a reproduction of the skull and cross bones of pirate ship fame and above it was a reproduction of a MC. Integrated into the design were the words ‘Home Taping Is Killing Music’ – and below the crossed bones it read ‘And It’s Illegal’. Home taping on MC, a form of music piracy, led to a seismic shift in the music business and the role played by music in the public’s psyche. It adversely affected the commercial viability of the music business and, arguably, culminated in Napster and copyright theft of the early 2000s. It spawned a near fortyyear reconfiguration of the flows of income from and to those who create and exploit music for gain. An early piracy case concerned Alan Sugar. Having seen a twin MC deck that had the ability of one tape deck playing while a second copied what was being played, he launched

his own mass-market version in 1987. This coincided with the British Phonographic Industries ‘Home Taping Is Killing Music’ campaign. The BPI sued. On appeal, the House of Lords ruled that the twin deck gave the power to copy but Amstrad were unable to grant the user the right to copy; Amstrad escaped liability. The three by four inch MC was launched by Phillips at a radio exhibition in Berlin in August 1963 and it revolutionised music for the masses. Phillips was known to have ‘gifted’ to the music business the technology behind the MC to encourage the players to embrace their new tech. It was a costly mistake that Sony and Phillips didn’t repeat when they devised the Compact Disc. Released in a series of formats depending on the length of time, the tape in the MC would run from the C30 to the C180. The issue with longer running cassettes was that the tape became very thin and flimsy. The use in-car of the MC was a Godsend but many ended up pulling copious lengths of snagged tape out of their car’s cassette player. That said, the auto-reverse function on most in-car machines allowed music to be enjoyed on an endless loop.

MC’s were often miniaturised versions of the equivalent vinyl. They had handy clear plastic jewel cases which contained inlay cards with the reduced art from the 12” sleeve together with, often hard to read, lyrics and sleeve notes. The Sony Walkman was launched forty years ago as a direct result of the MC. The role of the MC In romance should not be undermined. Pre-iPod, it was the format of choice for giving your loved one a mix tape of your favourite songs. It also became the preferred format for bands to deliver their demo recordings to Record Company’s A&R Departments. It introduced me to the joys of tap editing and splicing. A home splicing kit from WH Smiths consisted of a weighty aluminium block with tape wide grooves and cutting guides at 45 degrees. This enabled you to cut out the length of tape you wanted and then splice the remainder together using a narrow sticky tape which when played was barely audible. 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 people

At 17 years of age, she is playing to sold-out concert halls across the globe. Checking out the music news today, for instance, I read that her Barcelona concert was sold out so fast they had to find a new venue for it: the Palau Sant Jordi – the largest and most prestigious in the city of Gaudí. The concept of the teen pop star isn’t new; we’ve seen stars like Bieber, Miley Cyrus, or Selena Gomez play to packed crowds, but one thing that makes Billie so different is that from day one, she refused to play the game. Also, she is a creator – not just a Disney puppet or Instagram-like personality spawned to appeal to the teen masses. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SHUTTERSTOCK

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hecking out Billie Eilish’s gothic, terrorific videos (think When the Party’s Over, in which she sings while fountains of black ‘blood’ flow from her eyes), or Bury a Friend (set in what seems like a haunted house, complete with possession special effects), it is hard to believe that her music is so commercial. Her range of songs, most of which are composed alongside her brother, Finneas, is vast and includes pop and electro pop, while her look is distinctly hip-hop. She

likes to shroud herself behind the comfort of dark visuals and avante-garde backgrounds, for since her start in music, one thing was very clear to her: she was not willing to sacrifice one iota of individuality. Stars like Miley Cyrus have made the news and given tell-all interviews where they speak of the price of fame: loss of self identity. Billie has managed to dodge the stylists, the hit makers, the Stock Aitken and Waterman-like music machines, in so many ways. She was only 15 when her debut EP, Don’t Smile at Me, reached the top 15 in the U.S. Imagine being 16 and collaborating with Khalid, or turning 17 and having an album debut at the top of the Billboard 200. How not to become just another component of the machine, not to lose your sense of style, not to make what everyone

wants to hear, just to ensure you aren’t a onehit wonder? In case you haven’t noticed, Billie Eilish dresses in oversized – or should we say really really oversized – clothing. She does this, she says, because she does not want the world to know everything about her. Fashion, she openly admits, is a form of maintaining her sanctity, not becoming another objectified female dressed in mini this, bikini that, string that (images of Britney in transparencies hanging onto a yellow serpent spring to mind). Billy told Teen Vogue: “Nobody can have an opinion because they haven’t seen what’s underneath. Nobody can be like, ‘she’s slim-thick,’ ‘she’s not slim-thick,’ ‘she’s got a flat ass,’ ‘she’s got a fat ass.’ No one can say any of that because they don’t know.” It’s so simple, it’s brilliant.

BILLIE

EILISH

THINKING OUT OF THE BOX

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“I just want to make exactly the music I want to make when I want to. Let’s say tomorrow I wanted to make a song that sounded like ‘X’ and the next day I wanted to make a song that sounded like something else. I don’t ever want to fit into a box” BILLY EILISH

The key to Billie Eilish’s brash originality may very well be the strong sense of self-confidence that arises from being born into an artistic family. Both her parents are actors and musicians and her brother Finneas is a singer, songwriter, producer, musician, and actor who first came to the public eye in hit series, Glee. He is the lead singer and songwriter of the band The Slightlys and he cowrote and produced his sister’s debut EP. He then served as producer and co-writer or writer of her album When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? Finneas is responsible for Billie’s first big hit: Ocean Eyes. If you haven’t heard this song, it’s a great place to start enjoying Billie’s music. Gentle, haunting, and every bit as catchy as the very best tunes by Lana Del Rey (one of Billie’s biggest influences); Ocean Eyes was actually written by Finneas for his own band. The magic began when Billie’s dance teacher

asked her to write a song (or have her brother do so) so as to create an original choreography in class. When Finneas heard Billie singing with such grace, he knew she was the right voice for his tune. The brother-and-sister duo uploaded the song to SoundCloud with a free download link so her teacher could access it. Much to their surprise, the song was downloaded by so many people that her current manager, Danny Ruckasin, approached them, telling them that the song was getting too big to be considered an amateur production. Eventually, Ocean Eyes made it into Billie’s first EP. To watch the choreography to the song, search for ‘Ocean Eyes (Dance Performance Video on YouTube)’. Billie’s rise has been fast but rather than fizzle like bubbles in Champagne, she is more like a fullbodied red; one whose composition and flavour deepen with time, as though aged for many

years in solid oak. Ocean Eyes has amassed over 750 million streams worldwide, while her collab with Khalid (Lovely) was certified RIAA GOLD in the U.S. As Finneas told Billboard, the success of their songs is “scary.” Still, the brother-sister duo are fascinating to listen to. Billie has appeared on every talk show from TheEllenShow (where she talked about the fact she has Tourette Syndrome) to First We Feast (in which she gobbles chicken wings increasing in spice content with every bite alongside host Sean Evans). She is down-to-earth, natural, and very much like any 17-year old you might meet. There is a lack of artifice in everything from what she wears to how she expresses herself. Her videos may be strange and her words often mysterious, but she is immensely relatable and, many would say, a fantastic role model for girls who will always question why they have to look, dress, and talk the way everyone else does. e

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w the trend MUSIC READING CINEMA SERIES GADGETS EVENTS

112 114 116 118 120 122

New Cinema Releases New Netflix Series Music Mix Top Reads Cute Home Gadgets What’s Cool in Spain and the World

NEW SERIES THE WITCHER IS ONE TO WATCH OUT FOR, WITH A STAR-STUDDED CAST THAT INCLUDES SUPERMAN HIMSELF – HENRY CAVILL. DISCOVER THIS AND OTHER NEW NETFLIX SERIES AND CHECK OUT A FEW HOME GADGETS THAT WILL BOOST YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE.

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w THE TRENDcinema

CUTILLAS COMPILED BY MARISA

THE MONTH e BLOCKBUSTER OF Gray » DIRECTOR James (Little Odessa) vel » GENRE Space Tra Tyler, » CAST Brad Pitt, Liv es Jon Tommy Lee

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» DIRECTOR Andy Muschietti (Mama) » GENRE Horror » CAST Jessica Chastain, Bill Skarsgård, James McAvoy

It: Chapter 2

In the lazy town of Derry, the evil clown Pennywise returns 27 years after his last appearance to torment the adult members of the Losers’ Club, who have long since drifted apart from one another. This film, a sequel to the first It, is based on the second half of Stephen King’s novel. Leading the team of former Losers is Bill Denbrough (James McAvoy), now a brilliant mystery novelist who hasn’t lost an ounce of determination to defeat the diabolical clown for good.

» DIRECTOR Michael Engler (Sex and the City) » GENRE Historical Drama » CAST Allen Leech, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern

Downton Abbey

If you are a Downton Abbey (the series) fan, then you are probably waiting with baited breath for this one. The film is set in 1927-1929 and it features a visit to the Abbey by King George V and Queen Mary. Original cast members including Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael and Maggie Smith, will be returning as their characters from the series, which is great news for die-hard fans.

» DIRECTOR Miguel Arteta (Chuck & Buck) » GENRE Comedy » CAST Salma Hayek, Tiffany Haddish, Rose Byrne, Ari Graynor

Limited Partners

Two friends (Tiffany Haddish and Rose Byrne) have a very different view of life but both love nothing more than beauty and they decide to start a company together. One is more practical, while the other wants to earn her fortune and live a lavish lifestyle. Soon, they will discover that getting a new business right involves a perfect blend of risk and hard work.

» DIRECTOR Adrian Grunberg (Get the Gringo) » GENRE Action » CAST Sylvester Stallone, Paz Vega, Óscar Jaenada

Rambo V: Last Blood

If you have seen the last couple of Rocky films, then you know that Sylvester Stallone still has big-time pulling power. He is somehow believable as a mature but tough guy who is an ace at looking after the people he loves. This time, he travels to Mexico to save a friend’s sister who has been kidnapped by the Mexican mafia.

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If you’re starting to get depressed because the summer is over and you’re back at school or work, here’s one word that will surely lift your spirits: Netflix. The streaming channel is back with many good reasons to stay home, welcome the colder weather, and snuggle up with a loved one while catching up on gems such as these. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

4 1 – THE DARK CRYSTAL: THE AGE OF RESISTANCE Release Date: August 30

This animated fantasy epic, based on The Muppets creator Jim Henson’s cult 1982 film, will be voiced by major A-listers, including Helena Bonham-Carter, Alicia Vikander, and Mark Hamill. The story takes us to the world of Thra, where three Gelfling (elf-like creatures) discover a terrible secret kept by their nemesis, the Skeksis: a race of reptiles that seeks to destroy the beautiful world of the Gelfling. The elves must start a rebellion if they are to stand a chance of surviving a monstruous onslaught.

2 – DISENCHANTMENT Release Date: September 20

Matt Groening’s cult fantasy comedy is back for a brand new 10-episode series. Set in the medieval fantasy kingdom of Dreamland, it tells the story of Bean – an alcoholic princess who tries and often fails to defeat her personal demon, Luci.

3 – TOP BOY Release Date: September 20

Top selling singer Drake and Netflix have decided to revive the TV drama Top Boy for a brand new season, even though the last season aired as far back as 2013. Drake told The Hollywood Reporter that he became enthralled by London life as depicted in the series when he first watched it on YouTube. His passion for the series inspired him to partner with Netflix and entice the original writers and directors 114 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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NETFLIX SERIES TO WATCH OUT FOR IN THE AUTUMN SEASON to sign up for the project. Series star, Ashley Walters, told the press that “Top Boy is a raw, real representation of street culture. It gives the audience a behind-thescenes look as to what is happening on our streets today. It needs to be talked about and the show doesn’t shy away from giving us the platform to tell our story.”

4 – THE POLITICIAN Release Date: September 27

If you love the wit and dry humour of American Crime Story creator Ryan Murphy, then you will probably love The Politician, starring upcoming actor Ben Platt as a well-to-do student who aims to make it big in the political world. Also starring are Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Lange, and Lucy Boynton.

Season 2 showed that the element of surprise and mystery was a pillar of the series’ appeal. Season 3 might make it seem like the show is being drawn out, but at least we get to witness brilliant acting once again from an amazing young cast.

6 – THE CROWN SEASON 3

The magnificent Olivia Colman is fresh from her Oscar win and in this season of The Crown, she will take over the role of Queen Elizabeth, succeeding the equally talented Claire Foy. Although no precise date has been given for its release, past seasons indicate the long-awaited month may be November (or even December), 2019.

7 – THE WITCHER

Could The Witcher, starring Superman actor Henry Cavill, actually replace the massive void left behind by Game of Thrones? The series certainly delivers a heavy does of fantasy. Featuring eight episodes, it is based on Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski’s novel about a witcher (monster hunter) with supernatural abilities and drop-deadgorgeous looks. The series will have well seasoned directors such as Alik Sakharov (Game of Thrones) so ultimately, its success will most likely depend on writing and pace. It is certainly being touted as one of the must-watch series of the year! e

Coming Soon (no date provided yet): 5 – 13 REASONS WHY SEASON 3 Were you one of the many viewers who lamented the passing of Hannah Baker in Season 1, since the rest of the characters (including Justin, Alex, and Clay) were so appealing that you wanted their story to continue?

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Interior Design & Property Development +34 951 403 787

Showroom: Avenida Canovas del Castillo 25, Marbella

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w THE TREND music

HARRY STYLES

¿QUÉ PASA?

WORDS RIK FOXX

PAUL McCARTNEY has penned many a good tune over the years but he has now turned his talents to writing a children's picture book. Hey Grandude!, the tale of an intrepid explorer grandfather and his four grandkids, hits shelves on September 6.

DAVID GUETTA After a busy summer on the coast concert scene with Starlite and Fuengirola's Marenostrum Festivals, the baton has now been passed to Gibraltar to see out the season in style (see below). Elsewhere, there are likely to be tribute acts along the coast so check your weekly local press for gigs. All information on this page was correct at the time of writing. On September 7, Fuengirola's Sohail Castle hosts Danish singer-songwriter RASMUS SEEBACH. Ticket info: ticketmaster.es The MTV Gibraltar Calling weekend (September 7 & 8) takes place at Europa Point on the south tip of The Rock instead of (as in years gone by) the Victoria Stadium near the airport. Headliners include ENRIQUE IGLESIAS, LIAM GALLAGHER and PETE DOHERTY on the 7th; and TAKE THAT, RICK ASTLEY and TOM WALKER on the 8th. While the Classics Stage has the LIGHTHOUSE FAMILY, NAZARETH and STEVE HARLEY & COCKNEY REBEL on the 7th and a 1970s extravaganza on the 8th with 10CC, DAVID ESSEX and SLADE. There is a special bus service over the weekend from the town centre and for those who fancy a long walk there will be a signposted pedestrian route. For the full lineup and ticket info: gibraltarcalling.com Then on the 10th (Gibraltar National Day), Europa Point will also host the Monkey Rocks event with world famous French DJ DAVID GUETTA plus much more. This is a family friendly event, and there is free entrance for children under 12 with the purchase of adult tickets. As with the aforementioned event, there is a free bus service from the town centre. For the full line-up and ticket info: buytickets.gi or monkeyrocks.com

Málaga's Cervantes Theatre has several Spanish and French artists this month – for the full itinerary check out the website. On October 9, blues legend JOHN MAYALL is in town to celebrate 85 years of living. For line-up and ticket info on all the above: teatrocervantes.com The annual Mercury Prize award for the year's best album takes place in London on September 19 and after his memorable Glastonbury performance, 21-year-old UK rapper DAVE is the favourite with Psychodrama. Others expected to feature highly include UK indie rockers IDLES with Joy As An Act Of Resistance and UK rapper SLOWTHAI with Nothing Great About Britain. The awards will be live on UK TV's BBC4. MTV Unplugged is returning to TV screens with LIAM GALLAGHER on September 27 as he promotes his new album Why Me? Why Not?, which drops seven days earlier. He said, "I’ll be playing songs from my number one debut solo album, I'll be playing some stone cold classics from the mighty Oasis and I'll be showcasing some of my new songs from my upcoming second solo album". MTV Unplugged was legendary in the 1990s when the likes of NIRVANA, ERIC CLAPTON, MARIAH CAREY, ROD STEWART and OASIS played live acoustic sets. Meanwhile big brother NOEL claims he will sell the OASIS master recordings to "the highest bidder". This will no doubt anger his sibling who was recently blocked from singing certain songs live and he probably hasn't got enough cash to make a bid for the back catalogue.

PRINCE The doors to the PRINCE recording vaults have been opened again and the 'ultra rare' The Versace Experience (Prelude 2 Gold) will land on September 20 having only previously been available as a numbered cassette which was given out to those attending the Versace display at the Paris Fashion Week in 1995. Also dropping on the same day is 1996's long time deleted Chaos And Disorder album and the same year's Emancipation. Did you know that the vaults are actually an old underground bank vault to which he had exclusive access is said to hold well over a thousand unreleased songs dating back to 1975? LANA DEL REY, who released her sixth album, Norman F*cking Rockwell on August 30, has been given the thumbs up by PRISCILLA PRESLEY to portray her in the ELVIS biopic mentioned last month; and AUSTIN BUTLER, currently on screen in the TARANTINO flick Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, has landed the

main role ahead of HARRY STYLES and ADAM LAMBERT. Meanwhile, LISA MARIE PRESLEY is said to be writing a book containing “shocking revelations” about her three-year marriage to MICHAEL JACKSON and a completely new understanding of her father. RENÉE ZELLWEGER is the latest actress to branch out into music with her debut solo album of JUDY GARLAND songs on September 27, ahead of portraying the legend in Judy, a biopic which opens on October 4.

When Real Madrid footballer SERGIO RAMOS got married this summer he announced that AC/DC would play live at the wedding reception but they declined at the last minute despite being offered one million Euros to appear. Instead he had to do with Swedish rockers EUROPE who played their big hit, The Final Countdown, when the bride and groom entered the room. e

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TWO LIFE-CHANGING READS r e b m e t p e S for

THE HUMANS BY MATT HAIG

After reading this fantastic novel I felt like my whole life could change. It wasn’t a matter of the book changing my life but rather me coming to the realisation that I needed to change it. The incredible characters created by Haig highlight the important things in life and how much time we waste on things that don’t matter. It really makes you realise how much more grateful humans need to be for the things we have and the people we are. The story follows a professor of Mathematics named Andrew Martin of Cambridge University who is fascinated by prime numbers. He has just discovered something that will revolutionise the world and fast track the technological capabilities of modern day mankind far beyond our imagination. However, the narrator of this tale turns out to be a ‘Vonnadorian’ alien from a planet indescribably far away who has killed and taken over the body of the professor

to stop the advancement of humans due to the idea that, being such a violent and unpredictable species, they would be doomed if this discovery was to be exposed. At first, the alien is utterly disgusted by everything human, from their noses to the fact that they wear clothes, but after spending some time with Andrew’s family and eating peanut butter sandwiches with a glass of wine while talking to Newton the dog (who is, in fact, the only one aware of the professor’s true new form) the alien starts to see the beauty in humans and how, yes, there might be violence and greed and hate, but there is also kindness and generosity and, most importantly, love. Haig has been very open during his career about his mental health problems, writing novels and memoirs based solely around depression and how to cope with it. This theme has transcended in The Humans by showing how humanity can be broken down by the simplest of things within a day-to-day life unless there are positive aspects of love and happiness, no matter how small they are, whether it may be opening the door for someone or a warm embrace. He believes that even these miniscule simplicities can drastically change our own mental health and eventually the whole world’s outlook on everything and anything. Ending with a 97-point long list of advice for humans including “46. A paradox. The things you don’t need to live – books, art, cinema,

wine and so on – are the things you need to live.” and “80. Language is euphemism. Love is truth.” This novel makes you think about the world around you and hopefully changes your perspective on things you have never even thought about in detail before. A philosophical, hilarious story that delves into the nature and existence of humankind and shows you how love is the most important thing that our species has and ever will have. This brilliant novel will make you cry and laugh and sit for hours gripping at the pages begging for more once its finished.

FLOWERS FOR ALGERNON BY DANIEL KEYES This is a truly beautiful novel. A tearjerker that explores the problems within scientific research while following the story of a young man named Charlie Gordon with an incredibly low IQ of 68, who recounts the story through reports in which his journey after a surgery to make him smart is the main focus.

Charlie is an enthusiastic and kind man with a job at his uncle’s bakery where the colleagues he thought were his friends use him for their own entertainment. He also attends a local college for people with mental disabilities to learn how to read and write with the help of his teacher Miss Alice Kinnian, who recommends Charlie to researchers Dr. Strauss and Dr. Nemur. Alice is the closest thing Charlie has to a friend and she encourages him that he is amazing just the way he is but he still feels the need to be ‘normal’ and be able to interact with people the way they do with each other. So in order to have this, he goes through with the surgery that is about to change his life. Algernon is a lab mouse who underwent the same surgery before Charlie with miraculous results of increased intelligence. The pair soon form a bond and with both mouse and man drastically more intelligent than before, Charlie begins to see things for how they really are, questioning Dr. Nemur’s previous treatment of him and realising how his ‘friends’ never really cared for him. Now a genius, he studies his own case but as Algernon starts to deteriorate, he can only wait for his own outcome. This wonderfully written novel imitates Charlie’s intellectual progression of vocabulary and overall speech, while making you ponder the ethics behind scientific research and tugging on your heartstrings. Keyes has created an incredible story that will stay with you long after you finish it. e

This month, Bowen Pella-Mcdyre recommends two books that made a difference in her life: The Humans by Matt Haig and Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes.

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Autumn is the perfect time to stock up on new gadgets that make home life more enjoyable than ever. From home viewing activities to ‘back-to-work’ type tech, we hope you find inspiration in these beautifully designed items. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

e CUTE GADGETS m o H e h t r o f

1 – SMARTPHONE SELFIE LED RING LIGHT BY YELLOW OCTOPUS This clip-on ring light softens the light, giving you perfectly lit photos that are ready for an Instagram upload with no filters at all. It has three brightness settings so you’ll always have the right level of luminosity for social mediaworthy snaps. i www.yellowoctopus.com.au

2 – ECLIPSE WIRELESS SPEAKER BY MONSTERZEUG Create a futuristic atmosphere at home with the Eclipse speaker by Swedish

company, Mooni. Take it to the beach or enjoy a dance party as you listen to your favourite upbeat playlist. In addition to playing music, the Eclipse shines in nine different colours and boasts four different brightness levels. i Available at Nedgis. www.nedgis.com

3 – RETRO MINI ARCADE BY MONSTERZEUG Hold fun gaming parties at home with this retro machine, which harks back to the 1980s in design and function. Featuring a host of games and thrilling level changes. i Available at www.monsterzeug.de

4 – SMARTPHONE PROJECTOR BY NATIONAL THEATRE Imagine going through the very best photos of your vacation with family and friends. This cute smartphone projector can make it a reality with very little effort. Made from cardboard, it’s also light, compact and totally portable. The device is compatible with iOS and Android phones. i www.shop.nationaltheatre.org.uk

5 – BAMBOO WIRELESS PHONE CHARGER DESK TIDY BY YELLOW OCTOPUS Eco lovers will probably enjoy using this simply designed charger, made with

sustainable bamboo and featuring slots in which to keep pens and other small desk items. The device comes with a 1.5m USB power cable, so you can plug it in on your desk, beside your bed or in your hallway. i www.yellowoctopus.com.au

6 – DANCING WATER SPEAKERS BY MONSTERZEUG These pretty speakers will not only play your favourite tunes but also offer you a dazzling light show that will add a touch of sophistication to your home entertainment experience. They measure 22cm and boast transparent tower-shaped bodies. i www.monsterzeug.de

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w THE TRENDwhat’s cool

? l o o c s ’ what in this in Spain and abroad gs in en pp ha d an ts Check out cool even section. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS ol Co t’s ha W ’s th mon

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LITE PABLO LÓPEZ AT STAR certs at Starlite this year but re were 23 sold-out con Pablo

The most magical was that of without a doubt, one of the r who is also a judge of one of López, the singer-compose ws (The Voice). Not only did he sho Spain’s most watched TV hits but also stepped into the est play his greatest and new was performing while surrounded audience and at one point, acted members of the Spanish jet attr by fans. As usual, Pablo Baroness Carmen Thyssen’s son, set to his show – including lla.com rbe Borja. i www.starlitema

TRI L HIDEAWAY SANCTI PE JA ZZ FESTIVAL AT ROYASancti Petri in Cádiz recently

ay Paquito d’ The Hotel Royal Hideaw tival, featuring Marlango, celebrated a lively jazz fes tis, Chamorro, and Terraza. The Mo Rivera, José James, and one of the ir which is nevertheless event is an intimate affa z lovers. i www.barcelo.com jaz highlights of the year for

LANDS IN IBIZA ALEJANDRO HERMANNof Marbella’s best-loved artists,

Alejandro Hermann is one anity. The artist, famed for his hum lauded for his talent and han-life portraits, recently presented figurative work and larger-t Algarb Hotel in Ibiza. The New his first exhibition at The gurative and street art and can be fi of ge rria ma a is exhibition ann.com i www.alejandroherm viewed until October 27.

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#HASHTAGDAY WITH KAIKU

August 23 was officially #HashtagDay and to commemorate the occasion, Kaiku Caffé Latte shared the most popular Instagram hashtags in Spain. They are: #Selfie, #TBT (Throwback Thursday), #OOTD (Outfit of the Day), #Instagood and #PhotoOftheDay. i www.kaiku.es

LEGO GOES ECO

It’s a pretty exciting time for sustainability lovers the world over – Lego recently launched its new sustainable bricks, made from plant-based polyethylene. The very first Lego creation comprising eco pieces is called Tree House, designed by Lego fan, Kevin Feeser. Tree House received so many votes, that it is now available for purchase from Lego. It is the brand’s most sustainable set ever, making it a worthy addition indeed to your kids’ Christmas stockings this year. i www.lego.com

DOMA VAQUERA DE ANDALUCÍA COMPETITION AT CHICLANA DE LA FRONTERA

From September 13 to 15, the XLI Campeonato de Doma Vaquera de Andalucía will be taking place at the Royal Centre Hípica, located in exclusive urbanisation, Novo Sancti Petri. Doma Vaquera is an ancient Andalusian art that unites the mind and body of horse and rider. The horse displays blind trust in his jockey, performing an array of turns and acrobatics that are a treasure to behold. If you plan on staying overnight, the Valentín Sancti Petri Hotel is just a few metres away from the Royal Centre Hípica. i www.valentinsanctipetri.com

EXCITING DAYS OF POLO AT SANTA MARÍA POLO CLUB

It was another amazing summer for top polo players from across the world, who took part in a tense competition at the Santa María Polo Club. Visitors not only enjoyed a series of exciting matches, but also concerts by indie rock band Viva Suecia, and other performances that turned the event into a party. i www.santamariapoloclub.com

WE LOVE QUEEN AT THE AUDITORIO FELIPE VI

Starlite may be the hottest ticket for the summer on the Coast, but keep an eye on local theatres, including Estepona’s Auditorio Felipe VI. Many fun acts played at this theatre throughout the summer. One of the last was We Love Queen: a tribute band that had the crowd on its feet, with songs like Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Bohemian Rhapsody and Who Wants to Live Forever. i www.estepona.es

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



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Casa del Mar: A Home by the Sea Kare Design A Villa Reformation by Blackshaw Décor Designs Fashion Trends El Corte Inglés Men’s Fashion Concourse Fashion Focus

ONE OF MARBELLA’S JEWELS IS ITS PRIME REAL ESTATE, EXEMPLIFIED BY TWO BEAUTIFUL HOMES: CASA DEL MAR, AND A RECENTLY RENOVATED VILLA IN BENAHAVÍS. THE NEW MEN’S FASHION CONCOURSE IS ONE OF THE HOTTEST HAPPENINGS AT EL CORTE INGLÉS. MARVEL AT THE COLOURFUL AND ECLECTIC COLLECTIONS AVAILABLE AT KARE DESIGN AND BE INSPIRED TO SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP.

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Every city and property market has an area that is upwardly mobile; an established residential zone that is undergoing a revival in interest, and the urban renovation that comes with it. In the case of Marbella, it is Marbesa, and the fact that many consider it to be Marbella’s ‘Malibu’ adds further allure to one of the best investment hot spots on the coast.

MODERN LUXURY ON THE BEACH IN MARBELLA’S WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ENGEL & VÖLKERS

UP-AND-COMING ‘MALIBU’

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T

urn off the coastal road east of Marbella, and you enter the select enclave of Las Chapas, a villa suburb marked by its beautifully iconic canopy of coastal umbrella pine groves. For all that, it is conveniently located, close to shops, schools, golf courses and just ten minutes from Marbella centre – this is a very private and peaceful area, and for this reason not as well known as some of the other luxury residential areas of Marbella. Follow the road down to the coast and you enter Marbesa, the seaside extension of Las Chapas, and if anything, an even more secluded area in the heart of Marbella East. Apart from the serenity, the pretty sea views and the rich abundance of mature gardens, one of the things you will notice is the lack of apartment complexes, for Marbesa is a true villa suburb by the sea. The fact that there are few such areas left in Marbella makes it pretty unique, and while this established residential area was for a while overlooked and allowed to mature in tranquillity, it is now enjoying a renaissance thanks to this privileged setting and ambiance, as well as the fact that its older properties on prime seafront plots offer one of the most interesting investment and renovation opportunities in the greater Marbella area.

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MODERN OPULENCE IN A MATURE BEACHSIDE AREA If Marbesa offers a very interesting proposition within the Marbella property market, then Casa del Mar stands out as the finest villa available within it right now. Being one of the largest modern homes on the beachside of Marbella, set upon a very private plot of 2,500m2, this luxurious modern five-bedroom, seven-bathroom home comprises a built area of over 600m2, with another 117m2 of terraces. A stylish, modern architectural wall sets the tone, providing a sense of arrival worthy of a home of this quality, and the entrance

into the property is particularly impressive in the evening, with subtle but effective lighting that highlights the sleek lines of the villa. The house is built to a coherent design philosophy, integrating the exceptional architecture with the interiors, the furniture and the outdoors – all selected within a concept to provide the maximum of luxury and style. The fact that this spacious home is distributed over a single floor adds a further unique and for many highly practical distinguishing factor. Not having an upper or lower floor is

in keeping with the private, somewhat old school feel of Marbesa, where no tall structures look into the gardens of their neighbours. The land slopes down from Las Chapas to the beach, and here, at a short stroll from the sea, it is largely flat, creating a conveniently level setting for the lush, manicured gardens of this fully modernised villa. “Creating a modern home within a large plot with an established garden like this, is in many ways having the best of both worlds,” says the owner, who has an eye for harmonising these two advantages.

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NATURAL FLOW Step inside and the house abounds in light and space, offering distinct but interconnected living spaces that easily flow from one into the other – each with access to natural light, views of greenery and the capacity to enjoy fresh air from within a private terrace area. The first two bedroom suites exemplify this, while also standing out for their size, the quality of their detailing, carpentry and finishing. From here, the home flows on to a very attractive open-plan living area in which you find the dining room, living room and a beautifully styled kitchen with French doors opening onto a breakfast patio. The SieMatic kitchen is equipped with all the latest Gaggenau appliances, including a large wine cooler. A stylish modern fireplace faces both the lounge and the formal dining area, but in winter the warmth will certainly reach the kitchen and breakfast bar too in a property with under floor heating throughout. A spectacular patio with French doors and an impressive olive tree in its middle leads to the private quarters, with a further three bedroom suites. All the bedrooms in the house are exceptionally large, however, the two main suites stand out for their size and design, offering a separate lounge area as well as a stylish dressing room. The superlative nature of the finishing as well as the design impresses, and this continues outdoors, where the spacious terrace area overlooking the lush garden and modern pool deck contains an elegant outdoor lounge and dining area.

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The outdoors, as stylish as the indoors, provides a double size swimming pool with a poolside bar and BBQ, including many sitting areas for entertaining guests. Set a little further back is an independent spa house with sauna, gym and yoga room, which can be transformed into a guest house. Surrounded by lush greenery, it also links up with the multi-car parking. Casa del Mar has two enclosed garages accessible directly from the leafy residential street it stands upon, and here too you will find an ample storage room that could be used as a staff apartment. The property offers a great deal of flexibility and varied lifestyle options within a very private, stylish setting that is ideal for both peaceful family life and entertaining. Marbella’s ‘Malibu’ is becoming an upwardly mobile sector, popular with architects and renovators, and as such offers great investment potential, as demand for the area and the movement of property values are growing apace. Casa del Mar provides the possibility to own one of the finest modern homes in this most exciting ‘new’ property hotspot in Marbella. i www.engelvoelkers.com/en-es/marbella

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LUXURIOUS & ORGANIC DESIGNS FOR AUTHENTIC LIVING Established in 2002, Ambience is an International recognized Interior Architecture & Design firm based in Marbella. We are experts in full refurbishments and deliver breathtaking turnkey projects to our clients around the globe. From the initial design concept, to the placement of the last design detail, our talented and multilingual team will supervise all aspects of the project to transform our clients’ two-dimensional dreams into a three-dimensional reality. The projects range from interior design and furnishings, to full refurbishment projects. Our absolute #1 goal at Ambience is to clearly identify our client’s visions and needs in order to deliver spaces that are not only distinguish, vivacious and dynamic but make them feel instantly at home. ­Luxury Interiors - I­nterior Architecture - Building & Refurbishments - Bespoke Furniture Design - 3D Renderings - Project Management

www.ambiencehomedesign.com


d THE STYLE decor

Home Couture Made for Enjoyment

KARE DESIGN WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN AND COURTESY OF KARE DESIGN

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It is said that your home should be the expression of your style and personality, adapted to your lifestyle and the place in which you surround yourself with the things that make you happy, but too many people still ‘paint by numbers’ and decorate their homes not for their own enjoyment – but in keeping with what they believe are the accepted trends and styles of the day. The newly opened showroom of international style brand Kare Design challenges us to decorate our homes for the sheer joy of living.

K

are Design is a home design brand founded by Peter Schönhofen and Jürgen Reiter with the distinct mission of bringing happiness as well as style to people’s homes. “Like all designers, we stake our reputation on our abilities to create attractive, stylish and also functional collections,” says Peter, “but we’ve given ourselves another mission, and that is to convey the message that the joy of living starts at home, and therefore the place in which you live should be filled with the things that give you pleasure.” It’s a philosophy that makes the two principals of Kare Design want to enthuse their clients with the colours, textures, shapes and creative artistry behind the furnishing pieces they produce each season – and given the public’s reaction to the brand, it’s an approach that is catching on fast. “We’ve had some very successful collections, but as we don’t like to get staid and rest on our laurels, so we keep the ‘house style’ fresh by always looking for new inspiration, the latest design trends to infuse in our work, and new creations that can be both an evolution and a revolution when compared with the previous season’s offering.”

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HOME COUTURE INSPIRED BY JOY For the people behind Kare Design, home décor – be it in the form of sofas, cupboards, tables, beds and sideboards or chairs, puffs, home art or a wide range of accessories – should not only be visually attractive and functional, but also inspiring. “It should inspire a sense of wellbeing and make your heart race,” says Dan Tasca, who has brought this fast-growing brand to Marbella with the opening of a new showroom on the Golden Mile. One of more than 100 stores worldwide, it isn’t stocked in a standard way, but draws from a large and diverse collection of home furnishing and decorative items to offer styles and individual pieces that cater to the Marbella market while also offering it something fresh and new. Already successful across Europe and in Spanish markets such as Barcelona and Mallorca, in Marbella Kare Design is tailor-made to local tastes, needs and requirements. “We offer everything from individual accessories and furniture pieces in the shop to a full decoration service for private homeowners, property developers and commercial premises alike.” In this, the interior design can draw on a wealth of colours, textures, materials and shapes, for Kare Design doesn’t hold back when it comes to offering a broad range of possibilities. “Interior designers and homeowners have taken to us for this reason, as with our products it is possible not just to inject a home with colour and beauty, but also to place your personal stamp on it and ensure that no two properties look the same,” says Dan.

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THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER Thanks to the creativity of the Kare designers, the world is your oyster in terms of expressing yourself and creating a home that is comfortable, stylish and uniquely you. And while you’re at it, they want you to also be mindful that its décor should be welcoming, cosseting and quite simply put a smile on your face. In other words, make sure your home’s interior has the colours that make you feel good, the textures and materials you love to luxuriate in, and the either very stylish and/or quirky designs that lift your spirits and make you proud of your home. The current collection is abundant with wonderful tones and textures that are a pleasure to behold and feel, and there is enough diversity of offer to ensure both refinement and a touch of eccentric style are catered for.

“In fact, one of the reasons why we’ve become a hit with interior designers is the fact that our furniture and decorative pieces are just made for fun, eclectic dressing of a home, and discerning homeowners with an eye for décor also love to set our pieces off against other designer furniture brands to create beautifully styled and uniquely engaging homes.” Indeed, if it’s white-and-grey monotony and sober minimalism you’re looking for, the sheer joy and individuality that Kare Design exudes is perhaps not for you, but if you’re looking to make your home a happy as well as elegant place with many unique pieces you’re not likely to come across everywhere else, then Kare Design provides all the inspiration you could wish for. A home decorator’s dream, it caters to both male and female ambiences, straddling also modern and timeless classical design references with a clear focus on quality of style, materials, and craftsmanship. “We design and make durable pieces, offer a comprehensive interior styling service when required, and are proud of the fact that we manage to do this while also catering to a wide range of budgets,” says Dan, who together with his design team decorates everything from villas and penthouses to smaller holiday apartments and commercial premises. “I love it, because like our clients we too are infected by the joy of living when creating beautiful living spaces with such an inspiring palette of options.”

g Oasis Business Centre, Local 10, CN340 Km 176, Marbella Tel: 647 748 065www.kare-marbella.es

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FURNITURE | LIGHTS | ACCESSORIES | PROJECTS

THE PERFECT LOOK

KARE Marbella

Showroom: Oasis Business Center – Golden Mile – Crtr 340, KM.183, 29602 – Marbella – Malaga – Spain 0034 647 74 80 65, info@kare-marbella.es kare-marbella.es


d THE STYLEdecor

A Home t hat was Meant t o Be

BLACKSHAW

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Interior designer Sally Blackshaw had a feeling about a beautiful Benahavís home when she first stepped into it around six years ago. “The family that owned it back then had an initial talk with me about possible changes. We didn’t go ahead with the project but when I was called this year by its new owners and I saw it once again, I knew that some things were just meant to be.” WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

I

f you are aware of Blackshaw Interior Design’s work, then you know that the firm specialises in luxury villa turnkey projects. From design to major construction and imbuing homes with sophisticated finishing touches, Blackshaw undertakes all architectural and design work, with its own in-house team and trusted suppliers both on a local and international scale. This three-story villa is a perfect instance of the full gamut of services undertaken by Sally’s hardworking team. “The upper floor had a mezzanine so a lot of area was lost. In this case, our clients preferred to make the most of the space by creating a new hall, master bedroom, and adjoining entertainment/TV room.” Every house has an air about it; one that adds to or wrests from one’s subjective idea of ‘home’. There is something about this villa that is joyful, cosy, and very inviting. The lower floor is home to two bedrooms and bathrooms. The first, containing twin beds, is for the children. Comprising beautiful light blue-green and brown hues, the room has many of Blackshaw’s characteristic touches. Gorgeous

velvet headboards, fabric effect wallpaper and soft grey curtains are just a few of the features that make the room so appealing. There is also a guest room on this floor, with a Queen-sized bed and its own points of attraction, including gorgeous pendant lights, wood effect flooring, wooden fence-effect wardrobes and once again, the gentle coffee, grey, and brown hues that add so much warmth to the space. In addition, there are two bathrooms, with features such as suspended basin furniture, walk-in shower, and standing bathtub by the window – very ‘Room with a View’ indeed. The flooring is ceramic but similar in appearance to light natural wood. Finally there is the spacious kitchen – the focal point indeed of the ground floor owing to its enviable size and large central island that runs literally from one side of the space to the other. The island is graced with stools at one end and high-end tech features on the other – including a powerful extractor that rises from the island itself at the touch of the button. It is made of natural granite and bears stunning markings that are difficult to imitate synthetically. Blackshaw also installed beautiful

spotlights in almost every room; these are discrete and sophisticated, perfect to light up a space without being obtrusive. The angular staircase that leads upstairs is graced with a to-die-for, nine-metre chandelier by Studio Italia, comprising lights hanging at various heights. Upstairs is the main bedroom, where, on our arrival, the bedding professionals were placing the final touches to ensure all was perfect. When clients arrive, homes are 100 per cent ready to be lived in, and that means that Blackshaw takes care of everything – down to the last Egyptian cotton sheet and pillowcase. The main bedroom contains an interesting design feature; the bathroom is ‘hidden’ behind the wardrobe, opening up to reveal an ample space with a walk-in shower and standing bath. The main bedroom is spacious enough to be divided into two, the second ‘half’ comprising a viewing room that is kept soundproof thanks to solid wood sliding doors that divide it from the bed/resting area. Below the first floor, there are three more bedrooms as well as one of the home’s most sparkling jewels:

a sizeable pool, graced with what seems like a limitlessly large area on which to place sunbeds, start up the barbecue, and enjoy the party of a lifetime. On the opposite side of the pool is a large square bar area, protected from the sun by a pergola that is electronically operated by remote control. The bar has stools and a large prep area, perfect for baristas to show off their skills at twirling bottles or making a mean cup of espresso. This basement floor also has a comfy kitchen in which to cook or store crucial items for outdoor grills. “The home owner is very sociable and plans on really enjoying the villa with family and friends,” notes Sally, who adds that the company finished all the work “one week before deadline.” We can only imagine that the client would be excited indeed about moving into a house like this. Style, design, and functionality are perfectly married to comfort, and natural light plays a key role in lending this property the joyful air it somehow possesses in abundance. g Avda. Cánovas del Castillo, 25, Marbella. Tel: 951 403 787. www.blackshawinteriordesign.com

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d THE STYLEdecor

1

UNDER THE SEA

2 3

During the warm season, nothing quite appeals more than azure hues and seaside inspirations in the home. Pick and choose from this cute collection of items, and bring a little piece of the sea indoors. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

4 6 5

7

10 8 9

1 – LIGHT BLUE CERAMIC CRAB ORNAMENT BY GISELA GRAHAM 2 – FISH DESIGN BOTTLE HOLDER BY ANNABEL JAMES 3 – OCEAN BLUE WAVES 2 CLASSIC FINE ART PRINT BY ABSTRACT 4 – SIENNA TEAL VELVET SHELL CHAIR BY AUDENZA 5 – OCTOPUS STAND AND GLASS BOWL BY ANNABEL JAMES 6 – WHALE TAILS SALAD SERVING SPOONS BY THE NAUTICAL COMPANY 7 – PINK SHELL BED BY CIRCU 8 – RESIN SHELL DECORATION BY GISELA GRAHAM LONDON 9 – REALISTIC JELLYFISH LIGHT BY MENKIND 10 – OCEANA CORAL SCULPTURE BY SWEETPEA WILLOW

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COLLECTION WORLD G

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CW IS THE WORLD R N IO T C SUPPLIE N COLLE A E P G EURO OME LEADIN YOUR H R O F T GE OF AR UR LAR 2 O . N E D R 00M IS AND GA E OF 60 S U O H UL WARE EAUTIF B H IT W ND FILLED RCED A U O S S ISTS IN PIECE PECIAL S Y B D T. CREATE S OF AR T C E P S ALL A

es d servic n a s t c produ ion as ange of rther informat r e id w for fu ee the ntact us ur stock. .net to s o ld c r r o o w n o in .collectio e sure to stop sents a part of w w w it Vis le. B repre availab site only b e w we have e h t

VERY I L E D FREE ARBELLA M TO e ship

W wide! world

Our designers and carvers work with only the best marble as they create exclusively for Collection World.

Ctra. Nac. 340, KM159, 29680 Estepona. (Parking available) Open Mon to Fri 09:00 – 20:00, Sat & Sun 10:00 to 14:00 Tel: 952 802 162 Mo: 690 365 347

www.collectionworld.net

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DOLCE & GABBANA

FENDI

DOLCE & GABBANA

CAROLINA HERRERA

d THE STYLEfashion

CELINE

CHRISTIAN DIOR

AUTUMN/WINTER

TRENDS WOMENSWEAR SO DECADENT

The Seventies are once again going strong this season, and designers like Burberry and Valentino have taken a Parisian chic approach with delicate silk blouses, neck scarves, neat little jackets nipped in at waist, calf-skimming hem lines, and adding sparkle with sequins. Think Catherine Deneuve in Belle de Jour for the day and Studio 54 for the evening. Celine turned this look into a sexy vixen with leather knee high boots and aviators and a day-to-evening worthy sparkling lame dress.

CHECK ON CHECK

FENDI

Prince of Wales and dogtooth checks have always been evergreen classics in the autumn wardrobe. Opt for matching or clashing patterns like seen at Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Dior and Alexander McQueen shows.

VALENTINO

BURBERRY

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

GO BRIGHT, GO BIG Bold bright colours saturated nearly every catwalk in splashes of vitality, such as head-to-toe in red, fuchsia, cobalt blue, egg yolk yellow, turquoise, burned orange and pistachio green. Brighten your day with a colourful and voluminous coat like seen at Valentino, Fendi and Dolce & Gabbana or turn up the volume in eveningwear à la Alexander McQueen.

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DOLCE & GABBANA

DIOR HOMME

FENDI

FENDI

BOSS

DIOR HOMME

CELINE

MENSWEAR THE BLACK SUIT

Funeral suit meets mafioso. In suiting, black is the new black, all black head-to-toe or with a white shirt and black tie. Take inspiration from Dolce and Gabbana’s and Burberry’s beautifully back-to-basics suits, Celine’s Men In Black look with white shirt, black skinny tie and black sunglasses, Fendi’s Vincent Vega from Pulp Fiction or Dior Homme’s new take on classic tuxedo with a detachable sash.

THE TRENCH IS BACK

FENDI

It’s time to invest in a belted trench coat once again. The versatile overcoat was seen all over the catwalks in practical gabergine and nylon or luxurious cashmere, with designers like Dior Homme, Fendi and Celine.

Leather was a recurring theme at the shows, mainly in black, with a few designers opting for chocolate brown, grey and pale beige. There were calf-length belted trench coats at Fendi and Celine, 1970s style double-breasted jackets at Dolce & Gabbana, short aviator jackets at Dior Homme and a full leather look at Boss and Dior Homme for the brave. CELINE

DIOR HOMME

LEATHER

COMPILED BY KAROLINA KIVIMAKI PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, BURBERRY, CELINE, CHRISTIAN DIOR, DOLCE & GABBANA, VALENTINO, BOSS, DIOR HOMME AND FENDI ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM SEPTEMBER 2019 / 147

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d THE STYLEfashion

THE NE NEW

MEN’S FASHION at El Cort e Inglés CONCOURSE 148 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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In keeping with the latest trends in luxury retail, El Corte Inglés in Puerto Banús has been revamping and upgrading its services, the better to cater to discerning clients from all over the world. The latest area to offer topbrand boutiques within the store is the men’s fashion concourse on the ground floor. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

E

nter the iconic department store on the ground floor and you’ll immediately notice the change in layout, design and flow. There has always been a gradual progression from mediumrange brands through sport and premium to toplevel luxury, but with the inclusion of beautifully styled boutiques at the far end of the shop floor, a new era of high-end retail and service has begun. The layout has changed too, with the west entrance now the area dedicated to accessories by the likes of Loewe, Panerai, Chanel, Calvin Klein, Dee Ocleppo, Longchamp and Mulberry, with the watch section including names such as Tissot, Rolex, Longines and Audemars Piguet. Together, they form a diverse continuity of elegant décor and design, as each brand subtly blends into the overall style of El Corte Inglés to create a large space dedicated to the finest wares available. Continue on and men’s apparel becomes the dominant theme, so the ladies who come here for handbags, jewellery, cosmetic and luxury accessories such as watches, and then wish to look for clothes can now take the elegant new stairs that lead straight to ladies’ fashion on the first floor. Men, on the other hand, continue on across the ground floor, finding a carefully laid out succession of fashion that includes functional and work clothing, stylish summer and swimwear by Façonnable and Paul & Shark, leisurewear by Hackett, Ralph Lauren, Mirto and Tommy Hilfiger, and of course El Corte Inglés’s own home label, Emidio Tucci.

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THE WORLD’S BEST ON ONE FLOOR There are many more, including designer offerings for the sophisticated man about town from brands such as Armani, Michael Kors, Sandro and Hugo Boss – now all rearranged in a seamlessly attractive single shopping space that features a gradual evolution from practical and sporty clothing to increasingly high-end fashion. By the time you reach this area, near the east side of the ground floor, you’re in elite brand territory, passing the elegant boutique of Purificación García to reach a section that evokes the refined elegance of Harrods, KaDeWe and Galleries Lafayette. In keeping with those iconic luxury stores in the grand capitals of Europe, El Corte Inglés in Puerto Banús offers the best of the best under a single roof.

Like a Harrods in our own midst, the Marbella store brings the finest brands in the world together in a space dedicated not only to ultimate men’s fashion by Dolce Gabbana, Versace, Armani, Valentino, Burberry, Etro, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ermenegildo Zegna or the classic elegance of Pal Zileri, Dior, Givenchy Homme, Corneliani and Brunello Cucinelli, but with it comes a shopping experience that is all about quality, service and privacy in a beautifully styled setting. It is a space that features the latest of the best, including the first Burberry boutique in Spain to feature its stylish new look, and a new offering at the Valentino, Armani, Givenchy Homme and Chloe boutiques that opened this summer.

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A PRIVILEGED SHOPPING EXPERIENCE Once completed, this will be the prime retail experience in Marbella, and one of the very best in Southern Europe, crowned by Xquisit, a VIP shopping service for clients invited to join a very select group of discerning shoppers. They receive a personal card that entitles them to special privileges within the store, such as discreet, private parking, limousine and even helicopter service (the latter landing on the heliport atop the building) and access to the special reception and concierge area with lounge, which is available for private booking by card holders. As Gaël Vignon, International Marketing & Luxury Development Director suggests, “In a way you could say that Xquisit has been designed by our most demanding customers. We wanted to reinvent the concept of customer service in order to properly cater to such a well-travelled clientele, but we also knew that Xquisit had to be the true reflection of real expectations and real needs, so we began with a blank sheet and started to design Xquisit from the actual feedback, recommendations, experiences and requests of global shoppers of the highest level.” Pedro Martínez Gallego, Store GM at El Corte Inglés Marbella, confirms this desire to answer any shopper’s needs under one roof. “We remain a true department store, but one with a strong luxury brand presence in the form of curated boutiques, and this enhances the ultimate concept of luxury shopping with all accompanying services and convenience within a single store.”

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Xquisit is a perfect example of this, for as part of this service prime clients will find comfortable changing rooms complete with bathrooms, beauty treatment rooms, personal stylists and hairdressers, interior designers, tailors and also assistants that fulfil the role of personal shopper and style consultant. With these and other specialist professionals on hand – and administrative staff ensuring you don’t have to stand in queues to pay or receive your tax-free waver – the shopping experience becomes an altogether different affair, complete with refreshments in a peaceful, private and elegant setting that is tastefully decorated. It is an environment that the most selective clients will feel comfortable in, and as Marbella attracts such people, El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús is providing a specialised service designed to suit their needs. This is not to say that mere mortals such as ourselves are left out,

for even without chauffeurs, red carpets and Champagne, the newlook El Corte Inglés department store in our midst – one of the finest of its kind in Spain – raises the pulse as you indulge in some stylish retail therapy and delve into the latest collections by classically stylish, sporty deluxe and trendy new brands. Combined with the extensive women’s fashion, accessories and cosmetics department, as well as a first-class gourmet area on the top floor, the new men’s fashion concourse makes for an experience that is undeniably one of life’s pleasures. i www.elcorteingles.es/centroscomerciales/es /eci/centros/centro-comercial-costa-marbella www.elcorteingles.com/luxe

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d THE STYLEfashion

r u o l o C n i L i fe

E LADIES OYSTER SIL KANSAS NIGHT STRIP

T ER SILK PJ SE LADIES OYST LUCY AND TH

E SWALLOWS

CIRCUS S TRIPE SIL

THE WIMBLEDON K ITE LIM D EDITION SILSK EYE MA

FRIED VELVE A WITH THE T CUSH L ION ADYBUG

K PJ SET

TA BEACH BAG LADY MARGARI

K PILLOW

CASE

British designer and illustrator Jessica Russell Flint creates unique hand-drawn, hand-painted, illustrated pieces, ranging from accessories to her newly launched ready-to-wear silk clothing collection and a lively range of homeware. Inspired by life’s eccentricities, Jessica’s celebrates unusual, avante-garde style in every item she creates. Her ethos involves transforming ordinary things into unusual, collectible ones. She mixes British heritage with contemporary influences, celebrating the wonder of thinking outside the box. Why not take home one of her pieces to add a touch of glamour to your life? COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

BOTANICAL CI RC

FLINT

US SILK MAX

SKI BOTANICAL CIRCUS STRIPE

RUSSELL

I DRESS

NNY SILK SCARF

JESSICA

i www.jessicarussellflint.co.uk 154 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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n the spa

PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA SCIENCE TREATMENTS HEALTH

158 Argentum Apothecary 160 Filorga 164 Strange Phobias 165 Clínica Renacimiento Now in Marbella 166 Juice Plus+

ARGENTUM APOTHECARY IS ONE OF THE HOTTEST BRANDS ON LUXURY SKINCARE LOVERS’ LISTS, AND FILORGA IS ANOTHER ONE WORTH CHECKING OUT. CLÍNICA RENACIMIENTO RECENTLY LAUNCHED IN MARBELLA, WITH A DEDICATED STAFF READY TO PERFORM EVERYTHING FROM BREAST AUGMENTATIONS TO BRAZILIAN BUTT LIFTS. READ ALSO ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF JUICE PLUS+

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Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery • Aesthetic Medicine • Holistic Dermatology • Cosmetic Dentistry

ZURICH - MARBELLA - MADRID

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

OCEAN CLINIC Dentistry, like other sciences, is constantly evolving. During the last decades, the dental world has been revolutionized by medical and technological advances. At Ocean Clinic we take advantage of all these new technologies to give our patients better and faster results and a treatment experience as pleasant as possible. Learn about what these technologies can do for you in a consultation with our dentist Dr Nina King.

Av. Ramón y Cajal, 7 / 29601 Marbella / 951 775 518 / Móvil: 670 770 455 / info@oceanclinic.net / www.oceanclinic.net


n THE SPAbeauty

ARGENTUM APOTHECARY

‘STRENGTH OF ANCIENTS, SACRED ELEMENT OF ALCHEMY, SALVE OF HEALERS’ As a beauty and fashion writer I admit to spending a great deal of my free time watching the tips and tricks of celebrities and models. Elizabeth Chambers Hammer, founder of Bird Bakery and wife of one of my favourite actors, Armie Hammer, recently completed a tutorial video for Harper’s BAZAAR, revealing the numerous steps in her complex nighttime skin routine. Of the many creams and serums she donned, one really stood out: Argentum Apothecary’s Potion Infinie. Just when you think you’ve seen it all (vitamin C serum, rose oil, retinol, ‘miracle broth’, etc.) something surprisingly unique appears on the market and you just have to have it. This one has two unheard of ingredients in skincare: colloidal silver, and DNA. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

ARGENTUM APOTHECARY My mother has long given me bottles of colloidal silver to treat my son’s cuts and scrapes; such is its efficacy that my son only ever wanted this applied when he suffered small falls. The founder of Argentum Apothecary, British beauty expert Joy Isaacs, says her mum used the same colloidal silver water to treat scratches, burns, and grazes and to prevent infection. In 2010, Joy underwent major surgery and was not surprised when her surgeon used silver infused wound dressings to keep infection at bay. Colloidal silver (microscopic particles of silver suspended in a liquid) is an ancient remedy that has been used to treat bacterial, viral, and fungal infections for generations. A PATENTED FORMULA Argentum Apothecary shuns the modern commercial trend of creating a profusion of steps. For this company, all you need to do is wash your face then apply Potion Infinie. The latter is made with a patented formula containing silver hydrosol and DNA HP (a polymer extracted from

salmon milt – more commonly known as male salmon’s semen). The silver has natural antibacterial properties, while DNA HP promotes cell regeneration, boosting the production of collagen and elastin. The potion has a high molecular weight, which enables it to carry 10,000 times its weight in water. The result is intense hydration and the elimination of fine lines and wrinkles. Best of all, all ingredients are 100 per cent natural. WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE? A bottle of this baby costs around €180 so if you are reticent to commit based on what you read, the test size (14ml, at a cost of €40) is the way to go. Used sparingly, the cream can last you around a month, so you can see whether or not it is to your liking. Having tried the test size, I can say that the cream works excellently for combination/oily skin, through it is also very good for dry skin owing to its molecular weight. It is very quickly absorbed, and you will notice an immediate firming/tightening effect. This may take getting used to, but after a few goes, you will love the

plump, firm feel on your skin. The cream is meant for use on the face, neck, and around the eyes. After a month, I noticed a reduction in pore size and the complete absence of clogged pores or spots on my face. THE PACKAGING The way this potion is presented is quite simply to-die-for. The cream comes in a very solid box with the most dreamy illustrations that conjure up nature and seaside images at a glance. Every 70ml tub of Potion Infinie is ccompanied by an ‘archetype card’, including the Creator, Sage, Magician, Caregiver, Everyman, Ruler, Jester, Innocent, Rebel, Explorer, Hero, and Lover. The firm invites you to “focus on their message to inspire balance and harmony within.”

WHAT OTHER PRODUCTS ARE SOLD BY ARGENTUM? The high-end company has a very small set of items that includes a facial cleansing soap, cleansing balm, face oil, and body lotion. The concoctions contain absolutely irresistible natural fragrances such as citrus, rosewood, geranium, spices, sandalwood, and patchouli. WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS CREAM? In a word: yes. It also makes a super luxurious gift for the beauty lover in your life. It’s already on my wishlist for my upcoming birthday! In case you think I’m the only one going nuts over this brand, take note. Argentum Apothecary won the Global MakeUp Awards 2019 for Best Luxury Brand, owing to its innovation, quality, and effectiveness. The brand’s bar cleanser, Le Savon Lune, took home the award for Best Design and Packaging. e

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

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

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

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

So what’s the secret? “We believe that the real revolution is quite simple,” explained the clinic’s principle, Dr Arques “We offer the world’s most innovative cosmetic techniques plus exquisite modern facilities, including a spa environment, a relaxed and harmonious setting and a very professional service. Added to that we source with great care the world’s number one laboratory products and we obtain the most competitive prices to pass on to our patients. We constantly seek the latest tried and tested scientific advances to ensure the quality we offer is always the best you can obtain anywhere in the world.” "Our joint objective then, as it continues to be is to use the latest and most effective aesthetic medicine in a responsible way so that results are totally natural.” “Unfortunately the signs of aging are increasing all around us,” said Dr Arques. “They reflect our current lifestyle: our inadequate diet, lack of exercise and sports practice, lack of oxygen, work and home pressures, pollution, and not least, the sun’s damaging ultra-violet rays.”

Pride in Awards

“Among our other awards, the two most desirable were when we were in competition with an international field and came out top for aesthetic medicine and for responsible innovation in our sector.” For further information about the Arques Medical Clinic or to make an appointment, email: info@arquesclinic.com

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

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


n THE SPAbeauty

FILORGA HARNESSING THE POWER OF OXYGEN FOR #NOFILTERSKIN WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

OXYGEN-GLOW (MASK): containing a host of active ingredients that have a ‘peeling’ effect on skin. This mask strengthens and promotes the shedding of old (and the growth of new) skin cells.

OXYGEN-GLOW (CLEAN): A wonderful make-up remover that eliminates ever last impurity from your skin.

F

acetune and Photoshop are fine additions to anyone’s phone or desktop but when it comes to beauty, nothing beats truly beautiful skin that looks flawless without make-up, lighting tricks, or filters. Filorga Laboratories (founded over 35 years ago in France) has just released a brand new line called Oxygen-Glow, which has a host of vital ingredients including an oxygen-booster (which stimulates the production of cellular energy), hyaluronic acid (which smooths and refines skin thanks to its deep hydrating power), and enzyme L (which detoxifies skin). The creams are made with a new technology called ‘photoperfector HD’. It creates a blurred effect thanks to pearlised illuminating ingredients that look great under any light. Filorga promises major improvements in smoothness, illumination, moisture, even skin tone, and plumpness. These are the products in the line:

OXYGEN-GLOW (EYES): enriched with detoxifying tetrapeptides to eliminate darkness and eyebags.

OXYGEN-GLOW SUPER-PERFECTING RADIANCE CREAM: containing a colourcontrol peptide that unifies the skin tone.

i Further information, www.filorga.com

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n THE SPAhealth

5

UNUSUAL

PHOBIAS THAT REALLY EXIST!

Phobias are the most common psychiatric illness in women and the second most common in men aged over 25, with an estimated eight to 10 per cent of people affected by one or more of them. Phobias are prevalent and are actually classified as an anxiety disorder. They are said to occur when a person’s fear is totally disproportionate to the actual threat they dread. The person must also be unable to appreciate the extent to which this fear is irrational. Some of the most common phobias people are diagnosed with include agoraphobia (fear of open spaces), acrophobia (fear of heights), and pteromerhanophobia (fear of flying). In this report, however, we run through five rare phobias that can make life ‘a living hell’ for those facing them.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

TRYPOPHOBIA: People who have

trypophobia feel a deep revulsion when they look at asymmetric clusters of small holes or dark spots on everything from food (think an Aero bar), to make-up (anyone read about the recent Jaclyn Hill lipstick scandal?) or spores. Top YouTuber PewDiePie is a self-admitted trypophobic. If you want to watch a few spine-tingling images of holes, just check out his ‘Curing my Trypophobia’ video and join him in his misery!

ANEMOPHOBIA: Arguably one of the weirdest phobias known to mankind, this one involves the fear of

wind. People who have this disorder tend to feel deep anxiety when they are sitting near an open window or when a hair dryer touches their skin. One can hardly imagine how anemophobics survive the summer, since they tend to steer clear of fans and airconditioners.

CHOROPHOBIA: Those who suffer from chorophobia are the last individuals you would see at a rave, primarily because they have a massive fear of dancing! Not only will they refuse to attend a party with music (lest someone should get their groove on), but they will also avoid anyone associated with dancing.

Baryshnikov, keep your tights away from these dudes!

SPECTROPHOBIA

Finally, I understand why I am sometimes scared to wash my face in front of the mirror. Spectrophobia involves being irrationally afraid of looking into a mirror, perhaps owing to the possible appearance of evil spirits. Some people believe this is related to low self-esteem but as someone who experiences this fear after watching scary movies, I can assure you it’s more an authentic fear that someone will be behind you when you open your eyes and look at your reflection!

ALLODOXAPHOBIA: If you are around someone with this phobia, make sure to speak pure fact, don’t be subjective! They fear opinions – all of them – and their fears are thought to stem from childhood trauma. Their parents may have stopped them from expressing their opinions when they were young, and the result is a tendency to avoid all discussions and confrontations.

TREATMENT

If you or anyone you know suffers from these or any other phobias, rest assured that psychotherapy (in particular a therapy called ‘exposure therapy’) has a high success rate. Sometimes, medication will also be prescribed. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, the main aim of treatment is to focus on how avoidance behaviour can wrest from your happiness and significantly affect your ability to live your life to the full. e

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health THE SPA n

CLÍNICA

RENACIMIENTO Launches in Marbella Clínica Renacimiento has only been open for a few months, but it is already a popular choice for the health and beauty conscious, since it offers a wide range of surgical treatments ranging from facelifts to buttock implants and breast augmentation. Clínica Renacimiento boasts eight clinics in total (in Madrid, León, Barcelona, Castellón, Ciudad Real, Sevilla, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Marbella). Each clinic has its own Medical Director; in Marbella and Madrid, this is Dr. Joaquín García Aparicio, who founded Clínicas Renacimiento in 1991. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CLÍNICA RENACIMIENTO

FROM VALENCIA TO MARBELLA Dr. García Aparicio obtained his medical degree at the University of Valencia. He boasts over 30 years’ experience, and honed his skills in surgery and aesthetic medicine for six years at Clínica Barragán – one of Spain’s most prestigious clinics. There, he would receive all his required training in aesthetic surgery for the face and body. In 1991, he founded Clínica Renacimiento, where he quickly developed a name for using (where possible) minimally invasive techniques to reduce scarring in breast surgery, through the use of the L-scar shape. BREAKING NEW GROUND Dr. García Aparicio is a pioneer in the use of the ‘tumescent technique’ for local anaesthesia, used for minimally

invasive surgical procedures. He is also one of the first to perform butt implant surgery, which is so much in demand today. Finally, he is well known for male surgeries such as male pectoral surgery (augmentation and definition), as well as bicep, tricep, and calf procedures. REBORN AT THE CLÍNICA RENACIMIENTO IN MARBELLA The Clínica Renacimiento, located within Clínica Premium, offers the full range of surgical treatments for the face and body. For women, this includes everything from breast augmentation to breast lifts, liposculpture, thigh and arm lifts, butt augmentation, etc. For men, this includes calf and butt implants, pectoral implantation and reshaping, and abdominoplasty.

THE FACE IS THE WINDOW TO THE SOUL There are also a host of facial procedures designed to create a younger, fresher, more vital look. These include liposculpture for double chins, brow lifts, eyelid/ eyebag surgery, ear surgery, nose shaping, cheekbone implants, neck rejuvenation, and more. “The results that can be achieved with a facelift are fantastic but ideally the neck should also be done to obtain a uniform, youthful look,” says Dr. García Aparicio. When asked if he specialised in any particular surgery during his three decades-long career, he answers my question, “I have carried out numerous facial and body surgeries throughout my career and enjoy doing both.” In just a few short years,

Marbella has come to be seen as a leader in aesthetic surgery. Its reputation as a top tourist destination has created a demand for top-of-the-rage hospitals and clinics that specialise in anti-ageing and facial and body rejuvenation. Clínica Renacimiento is a welcome addition to a select group of medical services known for their safety and seriousness. Doctors like Dr. Joaquín García Aparicio, meanwhile, are testimony to the expertise and natural results that can only be obtained by staying at the top of one’s game for decades.

g Clínica Renacimiento C/ San Juan Bosco 8, Marbella. Tel: 656 829 745. www.clinicarenacimiento.com

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n THE SPA health Only one in 10 people in Spain consumes the amount of fruit and vegetables recommended by the World Health Organisation and only 11% of the adult population meets their ‘five-a-day’ requirement. As for children, three out of 10 eat fruits and veggies just once a day, while 26% do so four or five times a week – despite the fact that these foods are particularly important for growing bodies and minds. Thomas Becker – who has represented Juice Plus+ for 28 years – understands why this phenomenon is taking place in what is supposedly the healthiest country in the world (Spain): “People often say they are too busy to prepare fruits but the quality of available fruits is also relevant. In the average supermarket, much of what you find is imported from far-off countries. Spain exports much of its best produce to Australia and Germany, so often, fruit can lack quality and flavour.”

+

AN IDEAL SUPPLEMENT WHEN YOU AREN’T GETTING YOUR FIVE-A-DAY

JUICE PLUS

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

FRUIT AND VEGGIES ARE KEY TO GOOD HEALTH

Nutritionists have long espoused the importance of obtaining the majority of nutrients from the foods we eat. This is because some nutrients are more stable than others. However, one 2017 study* showed that far from being mutually exclusive, taking supplements actually increases fruit and vegetable consumption. Supplements can be used by those who simply do not manage (for one reason or another) to eat their required amounts of fruit and veg. Thomas states, “The Juice Plus+ Concept is easy. By taking two Vegetable Blend and two Fruit Blend supplements a day, you can rest assured that your fruit-and-veggie needs are covered. Think of Juice Plus as a ‘safety blanket’ that adults and kids can enjoy to feel as vibrant on the inside as they look on the outside.”

WHAT DOES THE SCIENCE SAY ON JUICE PLUS+ SUPPLEMENTS? If you’re going to invest in quality supplements, make sure that science

*

JUICE PLUS+ IS backs their efficacy. Juice Plus+ FOR KIDS TOO has been around for three Children can take the same supplements decades and is the specific that adults do, except in smaller amounts. subject of randomised, Juice Plus+ also has Fruit and Vegetable Blend double-blind studies Chewables for kids, which are so delicious you published in prestigious will definitely have to control your packs to ensure periodicals like The they aren’t consumed too quickly! Thomas tells me Journal of Nutrition, that there is a special programme that enables the Journal of Clinical kids to take these vitamins for free. “Chi ldren Periodontology, and the aged between four and 21 can have free British Medical Journal. Many monthly vitamins if a parent signs up important findings have been as a Juice Plus+ customer.” made on the following aspects: ZZ BIOAVAILABILITY AND NUTRIENTS:

Various studies published everywhere from the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics to the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, found a significant increase in blood levels of antioxidants and other phytonutrients after taking Juice Plus+. ZZ DENTAL HEALTH: Juice Plus+ can help improve gum health and reduce gum bleeding. ZZ HEART HEALTH: Juice Plus+ can help maintain the normal elasticity of arteries and have positive effects on a number of measures of vascular health.

ZZ LUNG HEALTH: Juice Plus+ helps improve specific lung functions in smokers. Additional studies show positive findings for immune system health, DNA, healthy skin, obesity, etc. To view these, click onto the Juice Plus+ website and obtain links to the published studies. It should be noted that these studies are independent, not private.

JUICE PLUS+ AS PART OF A HEALTHY WAY OF LIVING

Supplements are not made to replace fruit and vegetables. As noted above, one of the most useful things about supplementation is that it can have a positive effect on the actual number of fruits and veggies you consume. “If you eat fruits and veggies in the right quantity, you don’t need anything else,” notes Thomas. “If you don’t manage to, however, Juice Plus+ supplements are an ideal addition to your life because they can ensure your vitamin and nutrient intake is adequate.” Thomas notes that the supplements are 100 per cent vegan and, they are made “by drying organic fruit that is in its optimal, ripe state.” The source of supplements is indeed key when it comes to the extent of their benefits. By capturing fruit at its very best state, Juice Plus+ can help you “look better, feel better, and obtain more energy.” Sounds like a good plan! g To sign up to Juice Plus+, contact Thomas Becker on becker@wnet.de or visit www.Berlin.JuicePlus.com

Hyoung -Goo Kang et al, Complementarity in dietary supplements and foods: are supplement users vegetable eaters?. Food & Nutrition Research 2017; 61(1): 1361769

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ñL the social PROFILES MEDIA EVENTS NETWORKING FAMILY PETS

169 170 176 177

Chicnic Event The Vibe Returning to the Coast Animal Love

CHICNIC IS A SUPER FUN OUTDOORS ‘PICNIC EVENT’ THAT BRINGS STALWARTS LIKE DJ TODD TERRY TO OUR SHORES. CHECK OUT THE LATEST PARTIES AND EVENTS THAT TOOK PLACE OVER THE SUMMER IN OUR VIBE SECTION, AND DISCOVER HOW

’S INTERN, BOWEN PELLA-MCDYRE, FEELS WHEN SHE TRAVELS

BETWEEN THE COAST AND HER CURRENT PLACE OF RESIDENCE, THE UK.

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music THE SOCIAL ÑL Lamaya

Todd Terry

Mario Z

WHO WILL BE PERFORMING?

Headlining the event is internationally renowned DJ and Producer, Todd Terry, who hails from Brooklyn, New York. The Grammy-nominated creator became enraptured by European dance music while growing up in Brooklyn, and his big break actually occurred in England. Some of his classic tracks include A Day In The Life, Weekend, and Can You Party, released under monikers such as The Todd Terry Project, House Of Gypsies, and Royal House. Terry will be joined by top DJs and performers, Mario Z (Sweden), Raquel D.K. (Spain), Caesar Cooper (UK) and Tito Pulpo (UK). Lamaya from Japan will be playing beautiful tunes on her electric violin, while Gustavo Gottardi from Spain will be showing off his amazing talent at the drums.

THE PICNIC PARTY r a e Y e h t of

Those who call Marbella home know that the best month of ‘summer’, is actually September! The crowds have gone but the sun still shines, and what better way to make the most of it than at a chic music, food, and wine festival held at the elegant Finca La Concepción? The picnic party of the year is called Chicnic and it will be taking place on Saturday, September 28. Guests to the party will sit on comfy picnic blankets, enjoy fantastic food prepared by local chefs, drink an excellent selection of wines, Champagne, premium spirits, and beers, and dance the day away to music by some of the world’s top DJs. WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT FINCA LA CONCEPCIÓN?

Finca La Concepción is a stunning green zone located at km 2 of the Istán road. It is a popular choice for many special events, owing to its proximity to Marbella and its lush surrounds, with trees providing welcoming shade and soft grassy areas being the perfect spot to sit and soak in the sun.

WHAT FOOD WILL BE AVAILABLE?

From seasonal fruit salads to sushi, a flaming grilled burger and hot dogs with fries, you will find the perfect snack to enjoy while listening to fantastic dance music. Drinks, meanwhile, will range from

chilled bottles of Heineken or Coronita, to icey mojitos, cool rosés, full-bodied reds, or bubbling flutes of Moët. The catering for the Les Roches Experience Package will feature specific foods served at designated times. At 2pm, Serrano ham, cured cheese, sushi, and quinoa salad will be served. At 2:15pm, it’s time for tortilla, marinated fish, and shrimp tortilla. At 3pm enjoy a chicken and prawn rice tapa. At 4pm, a natural fruit cup, sablée with vanilla cream and oreo sand, tartlet of passionfruit and coconut, and grated mojito will be served. At 5:30pm, look forward to an array of snacks and three types of popcorn! At 7pm it’s nacho, mini hot dog and mini burger time; also enjoy

an assortment of wraps. Finally, at 8pm, tuck into a host of pizzas and ice-creams!

TICKET TYPES

There are three ticket types to choose from. The first, offering General Entry, costs €33. The second, featuring the Les Roches Experience, costs €132. This includes seating in an exclusive area with stage front views, as well as gourmet food and drinks from 2pm to 8pm. Les Roches Experience ticket holders will be spoiled with a unique and personalised experience and service that will be provided with great aplomb by the staff and students of the prestigious Les Roches Global Hospitality Education University.

BOTTLE SERVICE WITH THE THIRD TICKET TYPE

Those seeking bottle service can reserve tables for four to 40 people at €55 per person in a VIP area, which offers a privileged view of the stage, the chance to mingle with celebrities, and impeccable service. The minimum expenditure to be in this area is €100 per person. The ticket includes the Les Roches Experience, service and attention. Note that prior reservation is necessary.

g To book a table, call Tel: 952 657 420. For tickets, visit www.chicnic.es or www.rocklounge.com.

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ÑL THE SOCIAL vibe

LUXURY BEACHWEAR FASHION SHOW AT NAO POOL CLUB

IC Fashion Events recently presented a knock-out fashion show, featuring luxury fashion beachwear by a variety of brands – including Karo Swimwear, Lacrostine, Nabila Saad, and Jackie Vera Marbella. The event was held at Nao Pool Club – a perfect setting in which to show off sexy yet elegant swimwear. i www.izabelacalik.com

“You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it” — Edith Head

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF IC FASHION EVENTS 170 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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vibe ÑTHE SOCIAL L

ENGEL & VÖLKERS SUMMER PARTY

Engel & Völkers said hello to the summer in a fantastic way, holding a swish cocktail party at Casa del Mar – a gorgeous luxury villa currently on the market. The hardworking team at E&V welcomed colleagues and friends to the event and showed off the lavish home. Guests enjoyed canapes, fresh cocktails and great music. i www.engelvoelkers.com

“Summer afternoon – summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language” — Henry James

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ÑL THE SOCIAL vibe

SHOLEH ABGHARI ART GALLERY LAUNCH

Sholeh Abghari Art Gallery opened its doors in Marbella, presenting the exhibit IRAN CONTEMPORARY – which will run until September 30. The exhibition features 14 artworks, whose creators were influenced by Persian poetry, Iranian/ Islamic architecture, Iran’s landscapes and calligraphy. The gallery’s recent launch party was a well-attended event. i www.sholehabghari.com

“Creativity takes courage” – Henri Matisse

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN 172 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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SHOL E HABGHARI Ar tGal l er y

Av eni daRi c ar doSor i ano72A. 29601,Mar bel l aSpai n www. s hol ehabghar i . c om T el . 952254853-951027760


ÑL THE SOCIAL vibe

WORLD VISION SUMMER GALA AND DINNER AT THE PUENTE ROMANO

Marbella’s glitterati flocked to the Puente Romano Tennis Club recently, for the seventh annual summer gala, dinner and musical in aid of World Vision. Live music was provided by Heather Small of M People and the Gypsy Kings. All funds raised went to World Vision, whose mission is to eliminate childhood malnutrition in Bangladesh. i www.puenteromano.com

“It’s never too late to have a happy childhood” ― Tom Robbins

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN 174 / SEPTEMBER 2019 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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n e e w o l l a H r e l l i r h T A CHARITY GALA & MUSICAL

Featuring the cast of London’s West End THRILLER musical in aid of The Children’s Trust

CENA DE GALA BENÉFICA #PUENTELIFE365

PUENTE ROMANO | Thursday 31st October

Jueves 31 octubre

Andalucía Ballroom: Cocktail from 8pm

Salón Andalucía: Cóctel a partir de las

and dinner from 9pm, followed by ‘Thriller’

20h, cena a partir de las 21h y actuación

musical. Fancy dress very welcome!

musical. ¡Ven disfrazado!

EUR 100 p/p | Drinks & wines included / Vino y agua incluidos.

RESERVAS / RESERVATIONS: r es taur antes @pue nte r o m a no .c o m +34 952 820 900 | puent er om ano.com


ÑL THE SOCIAL teen talk

RETURNING TO THE

COSTA DEL SOL

I

am Spanish. Or I thought I was before coming back for the week with my friend. Born in Malaga, I spent the first seven years of my life moving from one house to the next along the coast and although the moving didn’t come to a stop as such when I went to England, the lifestyle did. The south of Spain, especially, is renowned for the late night strolls along el Paseo and having lunch in a chiringuito on a Sunday afternoon, whereas in England you stay in to watch Eastenders with your dinner on your lap. And this is not to say either lifestyle is better than the other, but I know which one I´d prefer. Over the years since I moved to England, returning here had no effect on me, as if I was just coming back to a home away from home, yet now, arriving with a friend who has never seen this part of my life, I am seeing what I thought was my home from a very different perspective. A tourist´s perspective, perhaps. I thought that pointing out places I haven’t seen in years to her would make me feel more of a local than ever before and that I would feel very blasé about it but it seems to have done the complete opposite. I have always prided myself on the idea of being Spanish but with each return I feel less and less entitled to call myself that with my evermore loss of the Spanish language and general culture itself. Nevertheless, this could be down to the multiple nationalities I consider myself to be, or in other words, I´m a

bit of a mongrel. As the daughter of an English mother with Irish blood and an Argentinian father, I´ve had people try to tell me what I am and what I am not which can be a very confusing experience for someone who´s not sure themselves. Having never been to Ireland or Argentina, I felt like I was subjected to choosing what I had left of my options – Spain or England. But the problem is that I seem to find myself being English when I´m in Spain and Spanish when I´m in England. And perhaps this has prepared me for the future I have in mind for myself, with plans to be nomadic of sorts, making many different homes all around the world. However, I can´t help but ponder about the opportunities I´ll miss out on with not being at home, wherever that may be. The Welsh have a word which can´t be completely translated into English – ‘Hiraeth’ – the idea of missing either an era, place or person which no longer exists, i.e. homesickness for a home that can´t be returned to. I find that the things about Spain that I miss the most I have either grown out of or they simply don’t exist anymore, like the mellifluous sound of my sisters and I splashing around in the pool or

This month, magazine’s summer 2019 intern Bowen Pella-Mcdyre shares her views on life in Spain and the UK.

the blockbuster shop I would go to in San Pedro with my mother. These are bittersweet memories of my time living here, though I am grateful for them as they still bring me great joy, and even if the things themselves are gone, the memories will stay with me for life. The long stretch of road parallel to the ocean that meanders through towns from the airport all the way to Estepona took me on an emotional journey on this return as I spotted homes I had lived in, restaurants I had eaten at and beaches I had been to. At one point, for some unknown reason, I found myself almost embarrassed when my friend pointed out the graffiti splashed across torn down strips of building, but I had to remind myself that that is, in fact, the beauty of the this place

how long I´m gone for, because after all, we can choose where we are from, whether that be the place you where born, or where you feel most comfortable. Besides, how can I compare the luscious petrichor after the rain in England to the salty sea breeze in summer on the Costa del Sol? Or the lush green hills that dot the landscape, to the view of the ocean meeting the sky in a perfect blend of blue? It is impossible. e

– the extremities of unfinished construction sites contrasted with pristine, sparkling urbanisations, the old and the new. And although I may have felt that stab of embarrassment for just a moment, it also made me smile, the thought that I can see the beauty in some graffiti on a wall because it makes it what it is – the Costa del Sol, my home no matter

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pets THE SOCIAL L

CUTE PET

ACCESSORIES n he A ut um for t

If you have been chasing the sun or enjoying frequent swims in the sea this summer, your dog’s collars, outdoor bowls, and beds may need a revamp. Marisa Cutillas brings you a selection of cool items for a pet with sartorial flair.

If you have a little Steve Dogs or Alberta Dogstein at home, they may benefit from an intellectual challenge. Agent 008 is known as one of the most difficult in the business. All you need to do is hide treats in strategic places and watch your dog use their intelligence to find the treasured snack. i www.myintelligentdogs.com We are going seriously gaga over this super soft Braid Envy leather collar by Lulu Loves. i www.lululovesshop.com

Frolicat Cheese Toy for Cats. This fun toy invites your moggie to enjoy a game of ‘peek-a-boo’. A little mouse peaks out and hides, keeping your cat entertained while you’re at the office! i www.miscota.es This beautiful neckerchief collar by Sophie Allport, in an elegant beige hue, is ideal for medium-to-large breeds. i www.sophieallport.com

How cute is this faux fur fleece dog comforter in colourful polka dots? Great for adding a soft touch to an existing dog bed (matching Cotton Day Bed Mattresses are available). By Charley Chau. i www.charleychau.com Charley Chau’s Deeply Dishy Luxury Dog Bed in Velour is super plush and can be used by the kitties in your life as well. IT is soft to the touch but boasts upholstery-grade fabric and is ultra resistant. i www.charleychau.com

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BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROPERTY FINANCE LAW

180 Colin McLundie 182 The View 184 Enterprise 190 Time for Taxes 192 Business Profile: BinckBank 193 Business Profile: Kensington International

MICHEL CRUZ TALKS TO COLIN MCLUNDIE ABOUT THE INS AND OUTS OF THE ARCHITECTURAL INDUSTRY, AND PROFILES NEW LUXURY VILLA PROJECT, THE VIEW. WE TAKE A LOOK AT SOMETHING YOU SHOULD DEFINITELY BE ON TOP OF – YOUR TAXES – AND TALK TO TWO NEW COMPANIES ON THE COAST: BINCKBANK AND KENSINGTON FINEST PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL.

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Memberships Marbella Club

Welcome to the Marbella Club Wellness family. Enjoy a holistic outlook on health at the Marbella Club, any time of the year.

Become a part of the Marbella Club Wellness community and enjoy access to the Thalasso Spa, join in on daily fitness activities and have a priority over sunbeds at the Beach Club. Please contact our dedicated Wellness team: wellness@marbellaclub.com

MARBELLA CLUB Bu le va r Pr Ă­n 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 , MĂĄ 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


z THE PRO people

COLIN MCLUNDIE THE GENEROSITY OF ARCHITECTURE WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN AND COURTESY OF MCLUNDIE ARCHITECTS

Architecture, as the art that creates the spaces we work in, are surrounded by and call home, shapes our cities, towns, villages and in so doing our world. Nature laid the first foundation, and mankind has been adding to it ever since. With this comes a responsibility that has not always been appreciated by all, but those architects who do produce designs from a harmony of mind and soul can and will make their mark. Colin McLundie is a fine example.

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or some, Colin McLundie is above all associated with the wood-framed structure homes he introduced into this region in the 1990s. He proved to be ahead of his time, as the current, nascent wave of ecological construction techniques focuses very heavily on the flexibility, durability and convenience of wood

Coleman Ballantine Architects. Among the projects completed in the second half of the eighties were Regal House – a landmark office development in Gibraltar – Jyske House and Portland House, a mixed-use commercial, office and residential development. Unique in that he is both a British and Spanish qualified architect, Colin established McLundie Architects in Sotogrande in 1991, as one of the first foreigners with dual qualifications. “The first few years were tough, as the region was in the grip of a recession, but with the invaluable and continuing belief, guidance and support of my wife we got through it and were able to establish a very well-respected niche architectural practice.” as a building material, but at the time the market wasn’t ready for a change from bricks and concrete. “We built our own home with a ‘post and beam’ structure and it remains as attractive, comfortable and cosy as ever,” says Colin, who first moved to this region in 1986, when he established the local office of

DIVERSE PROJECTS In the ensuing years, McLundie Architects worked on a wide range of projects in southern Spain and Gibraltar, using Sotogrande as a base. The main focus of the studio is creating residential properties, with a special emphasis on private

villas, but it has also been involved in designing office and golf complexes, as well as entire master-planned suburbs in the Middle East. “I have experience working in the British, European and Canadian markets, to which we gradually added a growing portfolio of projects in locations such as Abu Dhabi, where as founding partners in GHM Architects, we were asked to create the master-plan and architectural design for 5,000 homes in the new Al Falah town extension.” Colin is a thinking, feeling architect with a sincere desire to create projects that offer both optimal functionality and aesthetic appeal for their occupants. So true to nature, GHM persuaded the Abu Dhabi authorities to discard the rectangular grid pattern in favour of more organic, rounded forms that are closer culturally to traditional Middle Eastern town development patterns, and above all foster the creation of communities. “We broke the project down into a series of connected ‘villages’, each with their own services and identity.”

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Hotel design, Gibraltar

Modern villa with personalised styling

ARCHITECTURE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH Such an approach is indicative of the McLundie way of working, for in the creation of anything from private villas to large-scale mix-use projects he invests a lot of effort in coming to grips with the essence of the setting and the people so that he can design something that is unique as well as fitting. “I want to help create something that adds value to the owner and/ or community, and stands the test of time, so I work with the natural setting, the climatic conditions, the scenery and also the slope of the land, for these factors – together with the personal and cultural factors – give shape to each project, and transcends it into a home or part of a town’s urban landscape,” says Colin. Having worked on assigments ranging from Mediterranean and Andalusian developments – such as Arcos Gardens in Arcos de la Frontera – to modern villas in Sotogrande and the Canary Islands, and apartments in Newcastle, not to mention plans

for an entire mixed-use residential project on newly reclaimed land in Gibraltar (which is being designed together with Clark Geddes, a former university colleague with whom he has formed MGA Architects in Gibraltar), Colin believes it isn’t so much the architectural style you work on, but how you treat vital elements such as proportions, light and space, as well as roofscapes. “A building is all about its seamless functionality, on the one hand, and the aesthetic appeal and feeling it gives the people who live, work or spend time in it. In this context, attention to detail and sensitivity for the project are key factors.” His desire to really come to grips with each new project has created a lasting relationship with his clients, many of whom McLundie Architects have worked for on subsequent enterprises. He has even teamed up with ex-colleagues from university to

redevelop a historic property in Glasgow, showing his affinity with architectural styles ranging from classical and Andalusian to ultramodern. This also applies to the scope of projects, for having originally designed the new Sotogrande International School in 1998, McLundie Architects has, together with Arkitecnia, been commissioned to create the blueprint for a new secondary school building and boarding house. Drawing on their previous experience with Las Brisas Golf Club and Arcos Gardens, most recently McLundie Architects has been commissioned to carry out the redevelopment of the San Roque Clubhouse and practice area. Asked about the undoubted success formula

of an architect who scores so high on client appreciation, Colin sums it up with typical modesty: “it’s not about the architect’s ego, but his ability to listen to his clients and give them what they desire while exceeding their expectations.” i www.mclundie.com

Plan for land extension project, Gibraltar

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z THE PROproperty

Luxury Villas Made to Measure

THE VIEW WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF STURSA

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Like a tailored Saville Row suit, the villas being created by Stursa on the New Golden Mile are designed to form a perfect fit with their owners.

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eter Sturms and his brother Robbert have seen the Costa del Sol grow up around them. A first holiday in 1968 was followed by a more permanent arrangement as their parents were persuaded by Alfonso von Hohenlohe to buy a home across from the Marbella Club. “By the early eighties my father had begun to develop some villas in Rocío de Nagüeles, but his sudden illness forced my brother and I to come in and oversee the completion of the project,” says Peter. The bulk of their career has since revolved around developing bespoke Marbella homes. As they embark upon a modern villa project near La Resina Hills with The View, Robbert and his brother can look back upon over 35 years of experience in this field, and it tells in their unrivalled knowledge of the market, the selection of plots and the ability to give the market what it wants while also seeking to exceed buyer expectations. The 49 luxurious modern villas of The View are the ultimate product of this expertise, offering superlative qualities and aesthetic sophistication in combination with a wide range of personalised options.

TAILORED OPTIONS Though they are set within a beautifully landscaped garden community and share sleek architectural styling by Villarroel Torrico, the villas offer a choice of sizes and designs ranging from four to seven bedrooms and 525m2 to 875m2 of living space. “The options are very bespoke, encompassing interior distribution, detailing, and also a selection of tailored lifestyle choices,” says Robbert, “so that especially within the off-plan phase, The View provides what are truly made-to-measure homes designed around your personal wants and needs.” The gentle curve of a hillside facilitates the kind of south-west views over Gibraltar and south-east views over the Bay of Marbella that inspired the development’s name, and they form a distinguishing asset that can be enjoyed from the lush garden, terraces, pool deck and interior spaces. “A very exclusive part of the New Golden Mile is taking shape here, with a new community shopping area, an international school and also amenities such as Laguna Village nearby. With the beach just 800 metres away, this is a beautiful spot that deserves luxury homes of the highest quality.” i www.theviewvillas.es

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z z THE PRO enterprise

enterprise

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

MARBELLA ARENA OPENS TO THE PUBLIC The old bullring in Nueva Andalucía could not have found a better use. It has been turned into Marbella Arena: a venue in which a plethora of concerts and other events will be hosted. Marbella Arena boasts a 5,300-person capacity, which makes it ideal for musical performances, sports, business, and institutional events throughout the year. Construction alone generated 300 jobs and its opening has created many more. Some €30M has been invested into this hot new spot for entertainment, whose entire programme will be created by Sunset Events. i www.auditorioarenamarbella.com

ROLLS-ROYCE PRESENTATION IN PUERTO BANÚS Rolls-Royce recently chose Puerto Banús as a luxury partner to present eight of its most stunning models. During August, a select number of clients had the opportunity to try out the cars, after making a prior reservation. Puerto Banús in solidifying its reputation for attracting top luxury marques. It was recently the backdrop for select car-focused events, including the XI National Mercedes W107 Club Concentration, and a recent Ferrari concentration. i www.puertobanus.es

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MARBELLA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL TAKES PLACE FROM OCTOBER 2 TO 6

© Kevin Horn

In the first week of October, film buffs will be flocking to the Marbella International Film Festival, which brings together artists and films from all corners of the globe. Jason Flemyng, Kris Marshall, Frances Barber, Craig Kelly, Hugo Speer, are among the guests who will be attending the red carpet world premiere of thriller, Trick & Treat. This year’s selection features 30 films chosen from over 1,000 submissions, and includes the world premier of The Marbella Heist which was shot in Marbella last year. They will be screened at Teatro Goya, Puerto Banus.The program includes documentaries, shorts and feature films, all of which are in English or with English subtitles. i www.marbellafilmfestival.com

9 LIONS RESIDENCES – CLUBHOUSE AND SPA AND THREE POOLS OPENING IN MID-SEPTEMBER 9 Lions Residences proudly announced the completion of the communal clubhouse with indoor and outdoor heated pools, a steam room, sauna, and Technogym. A third, generous exterior pool of 25 m lies to the west of the development nestled among the fresh green landscaped gardens. Both outdoor pools enjoy spectacular views of the sea and the mountains. 9 Lions Residences (a development by Blue Coast Capital formerly known as UK & European Investments) comprises 53 contemporary luxury apartments distributed across nine villas on a hillside. Situated in the golf valley of Nueva Andalucía in between Club de Golf Aloha, Real Club de Golf Las Brisas and Club de Los Naranjos, and just five minutes from Puerto Banús. Those interested can make a viewing appointment. i www.9lionsresidences.com ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM SEPTEMBER 2019 / 185

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z THE PRO enterprise

BIOMAGNETIC THERAPY ARRIVES TO MARBELLA Biomagnetismo Marbella is a recently opened centre that introduces a new approach to the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of ailments. The main purpose of biomagnetic therapy is to find the root cause and treat it in a non-chemical way. Our body is a live organism producing a magnetic field that is affected by the bacteria that help us digest and perform our bodily functions. By studying them and creating a personal ‘biomagnetic map’ for each patient, specialists can find the cause of the problem and treat it by restoring the PH balance in our organism. When a PH imbalance occurs within the body, it can cause pain, fatigue, headaches, insomnia, dizziness, respiratory and digestive problems, and in the worst cases can lead to chronic ailments. This imbalance can be caused by stress, trauma or unhealthy lifestyle habits. The centre offers a free 30-minute treatment. i Further information,

www.biomagnetismomarbella.com

FIRST CHOICE EARLY YEARS EDUCATION AT LAUDE SAN PEDRO INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE Laude San Pedro International College is delighted to present the redeveloped Early Years education provision. Families are welcome to visit the new indoor and outdoor learning areas, which give young children the perfect environment in which to learn. This improvement project has been designed to enable all children to benefit from experiential learning and play. The most recent educational research shows that an outstanding Early Years education improves a child’s academic attainment at A Level and beyond (UCL). The school is consistently seeking innovative ways to help pupils improve over time, and this new learning area also provides modern facilities with integrated touch screen and computer technologies for young children. i Further information, admissions@laudesanpedro.com

TECHNOGYM PRESENTS ‘BIKE PERSONAL’ AT THE PUENTE ROMANO Technogym presented its latest exercise bike (‘Bike Personal’) at Villa La Pereza at the Puente Romano resort. The bike, designed by Antonio Citterio, contains innovative training programmes and has been manufactured using high-quality materials. It is equipped with the digital platform MyWellness Cloud from Technogym, which offers a broad variety of content and training programs dedicated to fitness, sport and health. Thanks to UNITY, its tactile digital interface, users can enjoy a completely personalised system with the entertainment program, having access to all the content, applications, web pages, social media or whatever entertainment they choose such as Netflix, YouTube or a television channel of choice. Furthermore, Bike Personal allows users access to Technogym Coach – a personal trainer on demand. i www.technogym.com

PRESENTATION OF THE 9TH EDITION OF PASARELA LARIOS AT THE GRAN HOTEL MIRAMAR Stunning five-star Málaga hotel, the Gran Hotel Miramar, recently hosted the presentation of the ninth edition of the Pasarela Larios fashion show – which will be held on September 13 and 14 at Calle Larios. A few of the designers who will be taking part in this highly awaited event include Rafael Urquízar, Jesús Segado, Gemma Melé, Antonia Galiano, Xisco Morales, Mario Teo, Félix Ramiro, Romina Brunelli, and Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada. The Gran Hotel Miramar also recently put on a dazzling fireworks show to celebrate the Málaga fair. At the presentation, an elegant dinner featuring Malagueño dishes and live music was enjoyed by a select list of guests. i www.h-santos.es

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SEAN HEPBURN AND ES.ARTE GALLERY PRESENT EUGENIO PARDINI EXHIBITION Es.Arte Gallery in Marbella will be hosting a unique exhibition featuring works by talented Italian artist, Eugenio Pardini (1913-2006). The artworks, which belong to the private collection of Sean Hepburn Ferrer, will aslo be exhibited in three additional spaces in Marbella: Fernando Moreno Gallery, the Marbella Club, and La Zagaleta. The retrospective exhibition features works that reveal the artist’s love for Andalucía. Representing everything from landscapes bursting with sunflowers to a series of taurine oeuvres, they are a vision of light, colour, and vivacity. i Further information,

www.esartegallery.com

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z THE PRO enterprise SURGERY FOR VOICE DEEPENING AT THE QUIRÓNSALUD MARBELLA HOSPITAL The Otolaryngology department of Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella is proud to announce that it has carried out the first ever surgery in Andalucía to create a deeper voice via the relaxation of the vocal cords. The surgery is mainly used to help people with very high voices caused by congenital lesions or other conditions that result in vocal cord rigidity. The operation is undertaken using only local anesthesia and necessitates a minimal incision. The change in tone can be appreciated immediately, which is fantastic news for patients wishing for such an adjustment. i www.quironsalud.es

FREE PERSONAL DEFENCE CLASSES BY CYD SANTA MARÍA Concordia Márquez, President of the CYD Santa María association and sanctuary for abandoned horses, will be assisting the team at Novagym in Alhaurín el Grande twice a week, giving women free self-defence classes. “Fear, more than weapons themselves, are often what kills people,” says Concordia. “It breaks my heart to see how many atrocities are committed against women in Spain. If I can do my share to help, I am happy to do so.” To attend, all you need to do is pay a registration fee to cover civil responsibility. i www.asociacioncydsantamaria.es

50 NEW DEFIBRILLATORS FOR THE CITY OF MÁLAGA The City of Málaga is now home to 50 new defibrillators, 25 of which will be kept in police vehicles. The new machines are part of a 152-strong sets of apparatus, purchased to seal Málaga’s reputation as a leader in cardio-protection. The equipment is made by B+Safe, known for its cutting edge technology and leadership in the health and security sectors. i www.b-safe.es

ESTUDIO 58: NEW ART GALLERY IN CASARES Casares oozes inspiration, creativity, and natural beauty. Many try and capture the light putting pen to paper or brush to canvas, but very few capture the true colours of Casares like Kenneth Godfrey. This local artist recently opened an art gallery, Estudio 58, featuring many of his own creations. Ken is trained in Fine Art and Industrial Design and his work is exhibited in many galleries worldwide. He has a wide range of abilities when it comes to art, such as still life, landscape, portraits, and the nude figure. The art movements he follows range from Impressionism to Abstraction and Expressionism. For those wishing to dominate these techniques, or simply to enjoy art and learn, Kenneth Godfrey offers classes to all ages, communicating his mastery of techniques such as acrylic, engraving, lithographs, oils, etc. g Further information, Tel: 656 257 416. kennethgodfrey@hotmail.com

AVISOMIO: CUSTOMISED SKINCARE MADE IN ITALY Italian start-up AVISOMIO recently presented its fully customised, exclusive and unique product, completely crafted in Italy. Drawing on advanced research, each cream is a precious pot; a true work of art. Because the company believes strongly in customisation, each client can select from many different product features, according to their needs. Clients can also choose one of four exclusive scents. All AVISOMIO creams boast a silky, velvety, weightless texture that facilitates immediate absorption into skin. The formula, with functional actives in high percentage, is enriched with gold and diamond powders that reflect a sparkling glow, stimulate the production of elastic fibres, and fight free radicals. Each product is presented in a hand-painted pot. i Further information, www.avisomio.com

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z THE PROfinance

TAX DECLARATIONS This month, the Pérez Legal Group gives readers a summary of the taxes they can expect to pay. These vary according to whether or not you reside in Spain. I TAX DECLARATIONS FOR NONRESIDENTS IN SPAIN These are the income tax filing obligations for non-resident individuals who own properties in Spain: When a property is not rented to third parties, the property owner has to pay an annual tax based on the deemed rental value of their homes. The taxable base is 2% of the cadastral value of their property (1,196%) if this value has been revised within the past 10 years and the tax rate is 24%. However, for EU residents, the tax rate is 19% from January 1, 2016. In either case, no property costs can be deductible. The deadline to submit the annual nonresident tax declaration is on December 31, 2019. If the property is rented to third parties, the rental income needs to be declared and the tax paid to the Spanish tax office. For EU citizens, the tax rate is 19% of the net rental income, whereas for non-EU citizens, the tax rate is based on the gross rental income and the tax rate is 24%. For EU citizens, only the costs that are directly related to the generation of rental income are deductible (e.g. agents fees, cleaning, laundry, repairs and maintenance). All other property costs (e.g. local rates, community fees, utilities or interest on bank mortgages) are only deductible pro rata to the number of days the property is rented.

The deadlines to submit quarterly non resident rental tax declarations are as follows: Z January 21, 2019 Z April 21, 2019 Z July 22, 2019 Z October 21, 2019

Once you file for a specific year, you only have to file a M720 again if the value of those assets, category by category, increases by more than €20.000. The deadline to submit the Modelo 720 is April 1.

DETAILS FOR FILING THE M720 II TAX DECLARATIONS FOR RESIDENTS IN SPAIN First of all, a person is deemed to be a tax resident in Spain if he/she spends more than 183 days here within a calendar year. Regardless of the number of days spent in Spain within a year, a person can be considered tax resident here if the centre of his/her family/business/economic activities is in Spain –unless that person can prove official tax residency in another country. Spanish residents have the obligation to declare all the annual income they generate, and declare all the assets they own worldwide, including all forms of capital, gains, gifts, and inheritances received worldwide. As opposed to the other European countries, the Spanish tax year matches the calendar year (January 1 to December 31).

TAX FORM 720 Since January 1, 2013, Spanish Tax residents have had the obligation to declare the ownership of non Spanish assets classified in three different categories : 1) properties, 2) bank accounts and 3) other investments (shares, insurance bonds, etc.). If the sum of all assets, category by category, exceeds €50.000 in value, they have the obligation to prepare and submit this declaration.

Z Properties outside Spain. You will need to declare the date of purchase, the full address, the type of property, the percentage of ownership and the purchase price (not the market value). Z All types of bank accounts outside Spain. You will need to declare the bank name, the full address, the type of bank account, the full bank account details, the date the account was opened, the percentage of ownership, the bank balance at December 31 and the average bank balance during the fourth quarter. Z All types of investments assets (investment bonds, shares, insurance products and other related financial assets). You will need to declare the name and type of investment, date of purchase, the type and percentage of ownership and the value at December 31. This information may vary depending on the type of asset, (for example you will need to provide the ISIN number for shares in the Stock Market). g PÉREZ LEGAL GROUP Costa del Sol: Avda. Ricardo Soriano 4-1º, Marbella. Costa Blanca: C/ Maria Parodi nº 8, Torrevieja, Alicante. Tel: (+34) 952 833 169. www.perezlegalgroup.com

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Meet the Sales Team behind the Scandinavian Magazines

Henrik Andersen T: 670 63 57 86

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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.

LA DANESA - EN SUECO - DET NORSKE MAGASINET Your direct access to the scandinavian market. Contact us for advertising in our magazines, on our websites or in our newsletters – with a new Scandinavian clientele as a result. Essentials annonce sÌlgere sept 2019.indd 1

CENTRO IDEA Ctra. de Mijas Km. 3,6 29650 Mijas Tel. (+34) 952 58 15 53 norrbom@norrbom.com www.norrbom.com 19/08/2019 12:46


z THE PRO business

BINCKBANK

BRINGS NEXT-GENERATION INVESTING TO SPAIN

The world, and the way it does business, is changing. New technology is at the heart of this, and it provides the means for consumers – in this case private investors – to take direct control of their assets and capital growth. This summer sees the launch of BinckBank’s exciting new investment services in Spain, from their offices on the Golden Mile, Marbella. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SJOOTS

B

inckBank is not a conventional retail and investment bank in the traditional sense, but rather a bank born out of the needs of private investors to take control for themselves. In fact, it was a fintech firm before the word ‘fintech’ was even invented, forming part of a vanguard of financial technology companies which now lead the finance industry. BinckBank uses technologies to reshape the way banking and investing are carried out. This provides greater independence and transparency and also enhanced flexibility for private investors in Spain. Investors have the means to steer their financial investments – with the full support of BinckBank’s professional team and advanced platform technology powered by Saxo Bank. Advanced also means easy to use, with a user-friendly design and powerful functionality, which makes the private investor – either a beginner or a seasoned day trader – the master of their own destiny. All the information you need – as much or as little as you want to focus on – is at your fingertips, as well as access to worldwide stock markets, so you can steer your course real-time in a convenient and time-effective way, though as with all investment, it is important to realise that the value of your investments can rise or fall, and that you could get back less than

you invested. However, BinckBank provides technical infrastructure along with personal guidance and professional support to ensure you are well-equipped to invest.

in facilitating private investors, and this summer we are launching the broader English-speaking service, which means that we can offer a new standard of online investment for clients across Spain.”

THE FUTURE OF INVESTING “We aim to empower our clients with technology-driven and highly personalised solutions,” says Kaspar Huijsman, director of BinckBank in Spain. Having received its official banking licence in 2003, the company has come to dominate the market in The Netherlands and Belgium where, counting the other branches, it has almost 600,000 active clients. “We are an online bank, and as such take the lead in terms of technical development, innovative client-based solutions, transparency and systems that are functional and easy to use, as well as making retail investment affordable.” BinckBank has been established in Spain and Portugal for the last twelve years, catering mainly to Dutch-speaking expats. “It has been a successful process, and over the past few years we have achieved a very high market share in this segment, competing primarily against conventional banks and investment formats,” says Kaspar, who oversees the market from the main office on Marbella’s Golden Mile. “BinckBank is now one of the top-five firms in Europe specialising

DIRECT CONTROL What makes BinckBank stand out from other financial institutions is the fact that it is completely independent, and therefore has no need to ‘push’ any of its own products. Instead, BinckBank enables its clients to manage their decisions and risk levels through the platform but also with full support from the team in Spain. “We provide access to over 40,000 different instruments and products, so there is always something that will be available to invest in that matches within your strategy. For those clients who don’t want to manage the investing themselves, we have a selection of Managed Portfolios available. Our trading platform is designed to be easy to work with, user friendly and offers broad functionality, tools and speed for execution. The system provides access to a wealth of information and the kind of guidance investors require. All of this is backed up by personal training and on-going support either online, over the phone or when you pop into our offices,” says Kaspar Huijsman. The bank’s clients range from

people who start with €1.000 to those with portfolios that run into the many millions. The system is designed to work for both beginners and seasoned traders, for those who spend almost no time on it to those for whom it is their fulltime occupation. Although the experienced team at BinckBank doesn’t give direct strategy suggestions or advice to clients, they are there to train and offer full support, including regular seminars that help direct investors gain the know-how and confidence they need. The levels of risk or dayto-day exposure can range from high (for experts) to very low (for novices). “As always, risk and reward are related, so it’s important to develop a longer-term strategy and stick to it,” says Kaspar. With a track record of 20 years, hundreds of thousands of active clients and an excellent reputation for solvency, results, and a technological offering designed around customer service, BinckBank is one of the firms leading the new transition from bank-controlled investment to transparent and direct control of your own money and how it grows.

g BINCK INVESTMENT ACADEMY Urb. La Carolina, Ctra. de Cadiz 179 km, Marbella. Tel: 951 565 656 www.binckbank.com

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business THE PRO z

er of themagazine a d al c ov n Rafael N ton On Locatio Kensing

KENSINGTON

Mehrdad Bonakdar, founder of the Kensington group

INTERNATIONAL

A QUALITY BRAND COMES TO MARBELLA

In keeping with a trend towards international luxury real estate brands that have established themselves in Marbella in recent years, Kensington International brings clients superlative service, know-how and Europe-wide sales networks, while offering the right partners rewarding franchising opportunities backed by an established brand. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KENSINGTON FINEST PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL

H

aving established itself firmly within prime real estate markets such as Switzerland, Kensington International has in recent years expanded into new upmarket territory, most notably exclusive resort environments like the Balearic islands, where it established 12 offices in a short time and became a market leader thanks to the solid support of a well-established brand that brings together reputation, international reach and marketing expertise. Much of this is down to the dynamic approach of the company’s founder, Mehrdad Bonakdar, whose more than 25 years of experience in the international real estate market adds technical expertise to a natural entrepreneur with a broad global network. “My mission is to lead young real estate companies to success with the concept and support provided by Kensington International, and this applies especially to successful young agencies that want to reach the next level of growth and development,” says the chairman.

A BROAD VISION Having successfully established itself as a market leader in Switzerland, Germany and the Balearic Islands,

the company now also wants to do so on the Costa del Sol, a market that shares many of the characteristics of Mallorca and Ibiza. “We have a substantial network of mostly high net worth clients many of whom seek properties and investment opportunities in luxury resort markets such as this, so it makes sense to develop the infrastructure to help satisfy this demand,” says the man whose vision goes far beyond that of the simple day-to-day real estate agency. “We carefully select our franchiseholding partners,” says Mehrdad Bonakdar, “accepting them when they fulfil criteria based on reputation, reliability, professionalism, marketknowledge and integrity, but in return we offer a lot. In essence, we provide the full support mechanism needed to help ensure success and growth rooted in solid foundations.” For this reason, he looks for partners with a good presence in a localised market and expert know-how about it, ranging from technical aspects such as planning, legal and fiscal issues, to customer service, marketing and sales approach, and ultimately business ethos. The right candidates are given full support from a company

with expertise in modern marketing methods, a broad cross-national business and client network, and a series of support services active within the group.

SUPPORT SERVICES These include the Kensington Academy, where franchisees and their employees are trained to a high professional and technical level, as well as given the tools to hone their craft, make better use of their time, contacts and the modern technology and management systems now at their disposal. One of the USPs of Kensington is the powerful web presence the company has built up through its consistent investment in digital marketing expertise. In addition to digital and offline marketing tools, the brand has its own high quality publication, On Location, an exclusive international lifestyle magazine that supports the brand and its offering, which is distributed to a HNW clientele around Europe and beyond. Featured prominently on its pages are glamorous events and lifestyle experiences such as the Kensington Polo Trophy held annually and there is already speculation that the 2020 tournament could take place in

Sotogrande. A significant part of Kensington’s portfolio of investors comes from the Kensington Family Office, itself the product of a strong network of private investors seeking attractive, solid and qualified investment returns particularly within real estate opportunities and projects. Added to this are Kensington Crowd, a crowd investing platform approved and licensed by the Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany, as well as the Kensington Travel division, all of which feed back value into the mainline real estate company. Mehrdad Bonakdar aims to bring this full concept to the greater Marbella area, looking for partners in areas such as Marbella town, Puerto Banús/ Nueva Andalucía, Estepona, Elviria, Málaga and Sotogrande, providing them with excellent support services in IT, marketing, PR and advanced systems manuals, as well as a prominent international position in the upper market segment. “We welcome any partners that wish to grow with us and take industry professionalism to the next level.” i www.kensington-international.com www.kensington-spain.com

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El Chiringuito Maison Lú Gourmet Bytes Pierre Marcolini, Chocolatier at El Corte Inglés Bodegas Chivite

THERE IS NO TIME LIKE SEPTEMBER TO ENJOY A RELAXED MEAL BY THE SEA AT SEASIDE HAVEN, EL CHIRINGUITO. IF GOURMET FARE IS YOUR PENCHANT, TRY OUT THE NEW MAISON LÚ ON THE GOLDEN MILE. FANCY A SWEET TREAT? THEN LOOK NO FURTHER THAN FAMED BELGIAN CHOCOLATIER, PIERRE MARCOLINI – WHO HAS A BRAND NEW SHOP AT EL CORTE INGLÉS PUERTO BANÚS.

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AT THE PLAZA VILLAGE IN THE HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

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

Reservations: 952 818 392

N E W TA I PA N

C H I N E S E R E S TA U R A N T A N D P O LY N E S I A N B A R Puente Romano, Fase 2, Marbella. Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00 www.taipanmarbella.com

Tel: 952 777 893 / 952 775 500

SUKHOTHAI Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine

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

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e f i l r o f e t i t e p p na

B E A C H F R O N T D I N I N G AT S E A G R I L L # P U E N T E L I F E 3 6 5 Seafront dining with the waves rolling onto the golden sand, Puente Romano’s flagship restaurant is open for lunches and dinners. The best fish and seafood from sea to table and exquisite tasting menu.

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


restaurants THE GOURMET b

EL CHIRINGUITO AT THE PUENTE ROMANO

SAVOURING LIFE BY THE SEA

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE PUENTE ROMANO

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f you could choose one word to describe El Chiringuito at the Puente Romano in the peak of summer, it would have to be ‘lively’. Busy with families, couples, and even business people in the mood for a sumptuous seafood meal, the restaurant is a veritable institution among foodies, as is its elegant sister, Sea Grill, just a few steps up from the beach. On display, freshly caught salmonetes, sea bass, jumbo king prawns and other delights catch your eye as you make your way through the bar to your table. Also on hand is an expert ham cutter slicing two finely displayed patas into paper-thin slices. “One of the hams is the Jamón Ibérico Cebo de Campo, the other is Jamón de Bellota Puro 100%,” says Thomas Stork, Executive Chef of the Puente Romano. Indeed, there is always something new to look forward to at this resort. The enigmatic management is the perfect fit for the prolific Chef, who is passionate about bringing current world trends to the shores of Marbella.

A WORLD OF FLAVOURS AT THE PUENTE ROMANO The Puente Romano name may normally be linked to La Plaza and Sea Grill, but it actually has 12 different

‘points of sale’, including Pizza Romano (by the pool), private events, banquets, etc. The resort even had a food truck in front of La Terrasse for the summer, which was much appreciated by the revellers who enjoyed a night of dancing and drinks at this venue and its sister night club, La Suite.

at the Puente Romano. Chef Stork is into all sorts of heating and cooking methods and equipment, including the famous Josper oven (El Chiringuito); Robatayaki barbecues (for banquets); and charcoal barbecues, tandoori ovens, and Brazilian Rodizio barbecues at Sea Grill.

THE ESPETO EXPERIENCE AT EL CHIRINGUITO

NEW DISHES AND CLASSICS AT EL CHIRINGUITO

Thomas sums up what makes the culinary offerings and indeed, a stay at the Puente Romano, so different: “The resort’s ethos can be encapsulated in one question: ‘What do you want to do today?’.” Whether a paella and espeto cooking workshop, or a private romantic dinner for two appeals, the staff is ready to make it happen. And if espetos happen to be your thing, then you will most definitely be learning how to make them at El Chiringuito. “We have a master espeto cook who has been making this quintessential Malagueño dish for 55 years,” marvels Thomas. The expert doesn’t just prepare espetos in the four-metre, sand-filled boat, either. Whole fish such as turbot and seafood such as squid and lobster are also grilled ‘on a stick’. Espeto-style cooking is just one of many world techniques employed

Because the Puente Romano takes such a personalised approach to cuisine, El Chiringuito’s menu changes seasonally, while maintaining triedand-tested favourites. On my most recent visit I tried delights that were specially created for the summer. They included a beautiful lobster brioche filled with half a lobster – ideal with a glass of Albariño after a day tanning on the beach. Also on the menu was a vegan delight – charcoal-roasted cauliflower with pesto sauce, broken into pieces by the waiter and blended with the fragrant sauce, right by our table. One dish that truly hit the spot was a refreshing burrata served with tricoloured tomatoes, a homemade fresh mint pesto, and summer truffle. The Chef is mad about truffles, ordering different types for the resort throughout the seasons and waiting

anxiously for the highly prized white Alba truffle of the winter season. My dining companions and I also tried some of our old favourites, including the summer porcini risotto and truffle (so creamy and fragrant!) and the black rice – rich, flavour-packed, and made with catch-of-the-day Mediterranean red prawns and calamari. El Chiringuito is more than a daytime restaurant; in the summer, it hosts full moon parties, where DJs spun hit tunes ‘til early morning. “We are consistently evolving according to the times,” notes the Chef, who honed his craft at twoMichelin star restaurant, El Lido, as well as beneath the guiding hand of the great Heinz Winkler. A big part of his job involves travel to new cities and towns, to bring new delights to our shores. El Chiringuito already has all the magical ingredients necessary for success – a frontline sea location, freshly caught fish and seafood delights, a plethora of international cooking styles, and of course, the service the MC Group is famed for. However, staying at the top of its game is a prime objective for this hardworking team, who are always on the move to bring the best of the world to your table. i www.puenteromano.com

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restaurants THE GOURMET b

MAISON LÚ

NOW THAT’S A GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE! Maison LÚ is an exciting new fine dining restaurant on the Golden Mile and if you’re looking for an experience that is as refreshing and different as it is delicious, then you should definitely treat your senses to its seductive delights. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN AND COURTESY OF MAISON LÚ

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aison LÚ is part of a ‘universe of LÚ’ created by Michelin-star chef Juan Luis Fernández. Though still young, the supremely talented Juanlu has a significant amount of experience and training at the side of the great masters of cooking in Spain. Armed with this, he has created a wonderfully vibrant ode to the artistry of French cuisine, blended with a love of the traditional kitchen of his hometown, Jerez de la Frontera. Not surprisingly, sherry is one of his favoured ingredients, and while it and superb cuts of fresh fish from the Atlantic and Mediterranean waters of the Iberian Peninsula represent some of the Spanish foundations of his culinary offering, the classic rotisserie reimagined with a modern twist forms part of the French influence. As a result, Maison LÚ presents a collection of dishes and above all flavours that will raise your eyebrows, caress your soul and absolutely delight your taste buds.

CLASSIC AND TRADITIONAL REIMAGINED Much of the best inspiration in today’s culinary world comes from the desire to delve into tradition, culinary lore, and almost lost memories of favourite family dishes to emerge with a treasure

of ingredients, techniques and flavours that can be used as the starting point for a dining experience that is modern, yet founded on hundreds of years of knowledge of and love for the bounty of the land and sea. What’s more, such cooking is modern and sophisticated but also vernacular and therefore represents the land and culture that surrounds you. In the case of Juan Luis Fernández, the seductive mix is a modern reimagining of traditional Andalusian cuisine blended with the classic mastery of the French kitchen. The result, I can verify, is quite simply delicious, and more, for it succeeds in offering something that is novel, new and exciting to those accustomed to more mainstream types of menus. The beauty of Juanlu’s oeuvre is that it never gets silly in the way of reconstructed food that needs explaining, tiny morsels on a large plate or overindulgently abstract cooking. This is creatively inspired food that certainly hits the spot but remains what many would call ‘real’.

GET READY TO ENJOY The restaurant’s prime location on the Golden Mile is well utilised, with a relaxing front terrace and bar where a

drink can be enjoyed before or after the meal, a cosy inside dining room with a stylish big city feel, and a large terrace with views of La Concha that offers space, ambience and elegant décor: all designed by renowned architect Jean Porsche. The menu includes snacks, a raw bar, a selection of starters, and then for a larger appetite the rotisserie and low-fat meats and fish grilled on embers, which by the way produces a beautifully soft texture and lightly smoky flavour. There is also a daily list of ‘fresh catch of the day’ specials focused primarily on fish and seafood, and as we contemplated the options, we sipped on gorgeous freshly made peach and maracuja iced teas. The choices made, octopus and an Iberian potage, seemed familiar, and we were fairly sure that we knew what to expect, but once they came we were blown away. If you ever wonder how chefs can come up with novel dishes you’ll want to visit Maison LÚ and marvel at Juan Luis Fernández’s technical and creative mastery, for these were dishes taken to another level – the octopus fine and delicious, set on a bed of refreshing cucumber and garlic foam – while the wonderfully savoury potage was quite simply one

of the most delicious soups I have ever tasted.

AN EXPERIENCE NOT TO MISS Awoken by this experience, we felt emboldened to select a 2017 Sancerre Les Vallons from the Valle de Loire, a full-bodied white with a subtly oily undertone. This proved to be a great match for delicious main courses in the form of a classic coquelet with mash and gorgeous Périgord sauce, and a red mullet prepared, presented and flavoured in a way that takes an honest fish fillet to another level of sublime. The desserts could have struggled to match the very high level set, but they didn’t. Once again surprising and excelling, this time in the form of classic Spanish Torrijas – but not as you know them – rather sautéed and caramelised to perfection, and a frozen rice pudding with cinnamon vanilla that straddles the line between pudding and ice cream. For those who love fine food and discovering new sensations in a refined but relaxed atmosphere, Maison LÚ is an experience you simply cannot deny yourself. g Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, 269, Marbella. Tel: 951 210 000. www.universolu.com

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COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

CRITICS VS CHEFS: KGB RESTAURANT

TURNS THE TABLES ON FOOD CRITICS

KGB Restaurant in Málaga put top food critics to the test, asking them to whip up dishes that would be judged by a chef-based jury. The winners of the contest were Arantxa López and Toñi Sánchez, both of whom will serve as guest chefs at the restaurant in September. If you haven’t been to KGB Málaga yet, what are you waiting for? The restaurant is one of the trendiest in the capital city, and is famed for its amazing rabo de toro burger with Havarti cheese! g C/ Fresca 12, Málaga. Tel: 952 226 851.

#HUEVODETORO SHINES AT EL LAGO

RESTAURANT

#HuevodeToro is a seasonal event that takes place from July to October, bringing a bevy of talented chefs to El Lago. Some 15 chefs from high-end restaurants headed to our shores, with each preparing a dish containing the delicious huevo de toro tomato, which is known for its unique flavour, texture, and consistency. i www.restauranteellago.com/

RESTAURANTE ARROZANTE OPENS AT THE OCCIDENTAL FUENGIROLA HOTEL

SAVOURING NEW CULINARY EXPERIENCES AT MOJO 3.0

The new Occidental Fuengirola Hotel aims to establish itself as a leader when it comes to a classic Spanish dish, arroz! Arrozante is the name of its new restaurant, part of a chain that is also present in Barceló hotels in Granada, Almería, Cádiz, and Huelva. From arroces caldosos (risotto-style rice) to flavour-packed paellas, and fideuas, an array of dishes tempt and excite at this new establishment, which has a gorgeous terrace upon which to enjoy a flavoursome meal with friends and family. i www.barcelo.com

Mojo 3.0 may have only been open a few weeks, but it is already turning heads in the gastronomic world, owing to its visually stunning, soul-soothing creations. Serving avante-garde cuisine with Mediterranean and Thai touches, the restaurant is the only venue on the Coast owned by restaurateurs from the Canary Islands. They are passionate about bringing a nouvelle, unique experience to even the savviest of diners. g C/ Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 185 207.

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PIERRE MARCOLINI

ARCHITECT OF FLAVOURS

Pierre Marcolini has opened a brand new store at El Corte Inglés. Marisa Cutillas breaks her diet radically during her recent visit. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PIERRE MARCOLINI

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ne of the best things about the El Corte Inglés shopping centre is its constant interest in renovation. There is always a new stand, brand, or food place opening in this elegant shopping haven in the heart of Puerto Banús. Recently, every chocolate-loving cell in me screamed for joy when I came across the brand new Pierre Marcolini store. At the time, I was headed doggedly for my favourite coffee shop (cold brew coffee in the heat of the summer, anyone?) but the sight of Pierre Marcolini – literally steps away from my old favourite, made me do an immediate aboutface. The plethora of colours (pink, violet, green macarons), chocolate shapes (truffles, bars, heart-shaped bonbons), and design features (the Pierre Marcolini logo says everything about the brand’s penchant for style), appealed to the aesthete in me.

TASTING CHOCOLATE I spoke to the lovely manager and asked a bit of advice. She suggested

the passionfruit macaron and a chocolate ball that broke into liquid magic once savoured. The stunning design of the store is matched by the quality of the coffee, chocolate, and macarons, in every way. It is indeed difficult to make a decision as to which item to treat yourself to. As I made my way through the small but well-stocked store, I was taken with the presentation. Some chocolate boxes were decorated with dozens of loose ‘diamonds’ that played around in the box – an ideal present for a discerning chocolate lover.

THE EMOTION OF CHOCOLATE Belgian chocolatier, Pierre Marcolini, founded his firm over 20 years ago with a lofty aim: that of scouring the world in search of the very best cacao, in order to create his own Grand Crus chocolates. For Marcolini, chocolate is far from a ‘mortal sin’. Rather, it wields great benefits, inspiring gourmets to discover and delight in flavour and creativity. Thus, many of his chocolates and macarons elicit oohs and aahs upon first bite. There is

something familiar, but also very original in each heavenly treat.

A LONG JOURNEY Pierre Marcolini is one of the few chocolatiers in the world who controls the entire process of chocolate making – from the purchase of raw materials right through to product presentation. This chocolate house toasts its own cacao beans (obtained from Mexico, Venezuela, Cuba, Peru, Vietnam and other suppliers), refines them, prepares ganaches, tempers the chocolate, etc. This enables the chocolatier to achieve an exact intensity and aroma. The firm pays a fair price for the beans and (thanks to a special contract) has 20 hectares of producer Pedro Martinetti’s plantations reserved for its use.

EXOTIC INGREDIENTS Chocolate is a key ingredient of many of Pierre Marcolini’s creations, but it isn’t the only one. Due importance is given to the sourcing of other ingredients as well – including vanilla from Madagascar, hazelnuts from Piamonte, pistachios from Iran, pink berries from Morocco, and lemons from Sicily. The firm has also discovered a tiny variety of almonds in Slovenia; their intense flavour delights and surprises.

AN ATELIER WITH A DIFFERENCE Pierre Marcolini chocolates are made in the firm’s Atelier in Brussels, which measures an impressive 3,000m2.

A hardworking team carries out a number of tasks, including grating three tonnes of lemons by hand and peeling 15 tonnes of almonds every year!

A WIDE RANGE TO CHOOSE FROM Pay a visit to Pierre Marcolini’s new store on the ground floor of El Corte Inglés and you will find a dazzling display of various products – including marmalade, cakes, marshmallows, truffles, pralines, etc. One of the firm’s most famous treats is its raspberry heart, created in 2000. Within its interior it hides a black chocolate ganache and raspberry pulp medley that makes you close your eyes in delight! Since 2000, many new flavours have been added – including lemon, passionfruit, salted caramel, and more. There are chocolates of all sizes and textures, and many of the tablets contain 75 per cent or 85 per cent chocolate. Another thing that will delight you if you are a health buff is the fact that these chocolates are low in sugar; prime importance is given to the rich flavour of the chocolate itself. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift, you are in the mood for a deep black coffee, or you wish to boost your energy with chocolate, head to Pierre Marcolini at El Corte Inglés. Take your kids along, for they will surely be as fascinated as I was with the artistic colours and shapes that clearly speak of this chocolatier’s authentic passion for quality and originality.

i www.marcolini.com

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One of the ol dest restau rants in Nue Andalu va cía, est ablishe 1965. T d sinc otally e renova refurb ted an ished t d o the h qualit ighest y stand ards.

INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

I FISH & MEAT GRILL I BODEGA & BAR

VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Avda. Miguel de Cervantes 68, La Campana, 29660 Marbella I Tel: 952 814 041 lacampanareservas@gmail.com I www.lacampanarestaurante.es

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BODEGAS

CHIVITE AN ESTATE FOR EVERYONE

WORDS PHILIP HARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHIVITE

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n bygone days when I was more heavily involved with sales of Spanish wines, the UK market was, despite my efforts, less sophisticated and understanding (“Does Spain make white wine?”) about them than today. However even then, certain names stood out. Cava was popular, driven by Freixenet and its iconic black bottle. Rioja, as it is today was recognised everywhere (often to the detriment of other regions) and some consumers even understood that within that sector there were differences: Viña Tondonia and La Rioja Alta were in the traditional camp, Allende and Roda were of the modernist school, Murrieta and Muga somehow rode a tightrope between the two. Only the Rioja region though could have attracted this attention as everywhere else was treated at best, with mild indifference. Two companies though, neither of which were based in Rioja, rode above the ignorance and indeed their names became better known than the regions they came from: Torres from Penedés and Chivite from Navarra. My first encounter with Bodegas Chivite was in 1999, so 20 years on seems a good time to focus on the estate, its achievements and some of the wines from their impressive range. Their history dates back to 1647 and 11 generations have since carried the baton, expanding, consolidating, innovating and adapting depending on the needs of the estate. Although 1647 is the first documented evidence of their name, it appears that Chivite already owned substantial vineyard and property holdings at that time. The mindset of not resting on laurels was particularly useful during the 1860s when oidium ravaged France’s vineyards and Claudio Chivite,

the boss since 1846, took the opportunity to establish exports not just to the desperate areas but to a wider audience who were suddenly left bereft of French wines. In 1872 a new winery was built on the La Cascajera site which still exists today. He passed on the mantle to his son Félix who established the first trade mark for Chivite and ran the business for 50 years until his death in 1928. Two years later, his youngest son Julián took control and steered the Bodega through the turbulent waters of the Spanish Civil War and World War 2, for although Spain was technically neutral, export quotas on Spanish goods were enforced. The post-war era heralded an upturn in the family’s fortunes but Julián Chivite Marco was convinced that quality not quantity would be the watchword. This was in stark contrast to other areas of Spain which were still in thrall to Franco’s promise that the state would pay for, in effect, overproduction, and countries like Italy or regions such as Burgundy where replenishing the depleted wine stocks took precedence. Many people’s first encounter with Chivite would have been with the Gran Feudo label, established in 1975 and more will be written about the wines of the Colección 125 range, founded in 1985 to commemorate their first exports in 1860. Between 1988 and 2001, the family purchased land in Navarra, the Rioja estate of Viña Salceda, and then 50 hectares in La Horra to create their own Ribera del Duero establishment. The empire expanded further into DO Rueda with the launch of Baluarte Verdejo in 2009. The expansion was undertaken during the leadership of Julián Chivite López who took over in the mid-1990s.

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Of course, no empire survives without firm foundations and the Chivite reputation has been built on the quality of their wines. The estate has had a long history of making Tintos, Blancos and Rosados from acquisitions within Navarra as well as increasing their profile throughout Spain. The variety, quality and innovation of Chivite can be witnessed by highlighting some wines from their Navarran holdings and where better to start than with the awesome Chivite Colección 125 Blanco 2005? The authoritative Guía Peñin awarded it 99/100 points in their 2020 guide, a feat only matched by two other white wines in the history of the publication. Chardonnay, drawn largely from the estates of Las Canteras, El Plano en Aberin and Finca de Legardeta, had been aged in a variety of French oak including Vosges and Nevers for 10 months. The fact that the wine has flourished further after 14 years in bottle is testament to the quality of its ingredients to start with. However, these bare facts do not cover the innovation of the estate in their ground-breaking co-operation with Denis Dubourdieu, the professor of Oenology at Bordeaux University. This collaboration dated back to 1993 and allowed Chivite (and Dubourdieu) to make a Spanish wine that would truly equal the great Burgundian whites. Geography played a large part with the acquisition of the Finca de Legardeta whose site to the southwest of the town of Estella produced Chardonnay with ideal levels of acidity and pH to maximise slow maturation. Its atlantic-continental climate and average altitude of 500 metres above sea level were key factors in the purchase of the Finca and the subsequent development of the wine. Dubourdieu worked with Chivite until 2015, and his successor and collaborator (from 2011), César Muñoz, embraced another eye-catching partnership with Juan Mari Arzak (whose family is synonymous with 3 star Michelin ratings) to make Chivite las Fincas which first appeared in 2015. The brand concentrated on two popular Navarran varietals, Tempranillo and Garnacha, grown again at the Finca Legardeta and a Rosado was created (because Arzak loved Rosado) which was 65% Garnacha and 35% Tempranillo with lees ageing for 6 months. This blend does change depending on vintage conditions. Muñoz went on to make Las Fincas Blanco which was unorthodox in its use of 2 Garnacha grapes – Blanco and Tinto! In the words of Julián Chivite, the blend (51% Garnacha Tinto and 49% Garnacha Blanco) combined both the opulence of the Blanco and the finesse and acidity of the Tinto. The young wine was partially fermented in French barrels and spent 5 months ageing on the lees before the components were blended. By only using free run juice which emerged when the red grapes were pressed under their own weight, no contact was made between the must and the pigments of the skin which carry the colour. A white wine of mixed vinous parentage is not unique, but certainly unusual.

I’ve called Chivite “an estate for everyone” because they make many wines of different characters and hues. If you don’t like Blanco or Rosado wines, you’ll find enticing reds to tempt the tastebuds including those of the Finca de Villatuerta range. This was first released in 2013 and came from the Tierra Estella vineyards based on the hillsides around the Granja de la Legardeta. Their Selección Tinto blends 77% Tempranillo, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot, which are then matured for 12 months in French oak. Their Finca Legardeta Chardonnay is also well respected and gained 93/100 points in the 2020 Guiá Peñin as did the Chivite Colección 125 Reserva. This Tinto differs from the afore-mentioned Selección by being 100% Tempranillo, given complexity by at least 12 months maturation in French oak casks of which 50% are new (imparting toast and oak flavours) and 50% 2nd use oak which puts a brake on too much jarring wood. Dubourdieu was a master of sweet wines so it would be fitting to end the article by mentioning the Chivite

Colección 125 Vendimia Tardía, a regular high scorer with Peñin. Moscatel grapes from a 50y/o vineyard are assiduously harvested in 12 different phases between October and December. The wine is fermented in French oak and spends 5 months maturing in it before release. I’ve not included any tasting notes because I hope you’ll now be tempted to discover these jewels for yourselves and have fun writing your own. e

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. . THE GUIDE listings

the guide

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

*restaurants

american JACKS

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

JACKS SMOKEHOUSE Open seven days a week from noon 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

YANX Open from 9am Monday to Saturday and Sunday from 11am for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 861

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

LISTINGS STARS

€60 plus

argentinean

eco

C’EST SI BON

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Virgen del Pilar, 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 779 297

LE BISTROMAN

EL BANCO

Open daily from 12pm to midnight. Ctra. De Ronda, km 45, C.C. Monte Halcones, Local 9-10, Benahavís. Tel: 951 275 109

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

GIOIA Open daily from 1pm to 8pm except Mondays. C/ Velázquez 1, Marbella. Tel: 630 441 834

HACIENDA PATAGONICA

THE ORGANIC CAFÉ

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

ORIGEN

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

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

french

BUENOS AIRES SOUTH

belgian MYTILUS

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

ALMAZEN

ALBERT & SIMON Open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday and for dinner only on Saturday. Closed Sundays. Urb. Nueva Alcántara, Edif. Mirador, Bloque 4-B, Marbella. Tel: 952 783 714

Open daily 1pm to 11pm except Mondays. C/ Iris 12T, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 635 771 122 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

MONSIEUR BISTRO Open daily for lunch and dinner. Open for lunch only on Mondays. C/ Antonio Herrera 6, Local 8, Marbella. Tel: 744 612 790

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

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listings THE GUIDE . french nordic NORMAN

Open Tuesday to Saturday 12pm to 2am. C/ Ramiro Campos Turno 4, Marbella. Tel: 600 919 541

gluten-free CELICIOSO

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile. Tel: 952 820 900

greek

RED PEPPER Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 148

grills

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

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

CABAÑA NAGÜELES Open Monday to Saturday from 1pm to midnight. Urb. La Carolina, Marbella. Tel: 951 134 083

EL CARNICERO Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Pueblo Viejo Cancelada. Between San Pedro & Estepona. Tel: 952 886 307

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

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

EL GAUCHO DE BANÚS

JAIPUR PURPLE

BALTAZAR BAR & GRILL

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

Open daily for dinner. CN 340, km. 166, Estepona. Tel: 952 888 353

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

EL RANCHO DEL PUERTO

MASSALA

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

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

GRILL DEL PUERTO

MUMTAZ

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

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

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

OLD TOWN GRILL Open Monday to Saturday for dinner and Sunday for lunch. C/ San Lázaro, 3, Pza. Victoria, Marbella. Tel: 952 867 306

international 11&11 RESTOBAR

Open Monday to Thursday from 7pm ‘til late, on Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 4pm and from 7pm ‘til late and on Sunday from 10am ‘til late. Dársena de Levante, Local 39, Estepona Port. Tel: 951 703 060

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

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

CAFÉ DE RONDA Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 7pm. Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella. Tel: 952 862 149

CAFETERÍA KE

ACINIPO

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

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday. C.C. El Zoco, Sitio de Calahonda, Mijas Costa. Tel: 607 680 999

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

T-BONE GRILL

AL ROLO

CASANIS

Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Gran Meliá Don Pepe, Avda. José Meliá s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 300

Open from 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11pm daily. At Reserva del Higuerón. Avda. del Higuerón 48, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 661 174

Open every day from 6pm except Sundays. C/ Ancha, 8, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 450

ALBERTS

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

RESTAURANTE RANCHO

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

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

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

BABOO LOUNGE AND RESTAURANT

CAMURÍ

CELIMA CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA 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 Open Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 11pm and Friday from 10am to 4pm. Closed Saturdays. C/ Los Jazmines 409, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 275 384.

JAIPUR PALACE

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

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

BAHIA BEACH

CLARO! RESTAURANT & BEACH CLUB

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

Open every day from 10am to 11pm. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 800 873

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. THE GUIDE listings 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

D.O.MAR Open daily from 1pm to 2am. Urb. Oasis Club, CN340 km 183, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 396

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

DÖSS 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

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

EL CAMPANARIO Open every day for lunch. Open for dinner on Friday and Saturday. CN 340, km. 168, Estepona. Tel: 952 880 126

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

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

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

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

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

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

EL OCEANO BEACH HOTEL & RESTAURANT Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 199, Marbella. Tel: 952 587 550

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

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

FABIOLA Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sundays for lunch. Cortijo Los Canos, Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro, CN-340, km. 132, Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 695 114 / 619 694 484

FINCA CORTESIN BEACH CLUB Open 11am to 7pm. Bahía de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

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

LA CASA DEL HUMMUS

HILLS CAFE

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

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm. Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino. Tel: 952 837 483

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

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

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

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

LA BIZNAGA 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 BRISA 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 FAMIEKE 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

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

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

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

LA 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

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listings THE GUIDE . LA VERANDA LOBBY BAR Open every day for lunch and dinner. At the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

LIMA BY MOMO Open Monday to Saturday from 6pm to 12am. Closed Sundays. Plaza Practicante, Manuel Cantos 2, Marbella. Tel: 952 036 115.

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

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

MAGNA CAFÉ

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

MOJO 3.0 Open very night for dinner except Sunday. C/ Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 185 207

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

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

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

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

NŌMŌ BRASSERIE

MARE NOSTRUM

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

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

Open from 11am to 9pm. Avda. de Lola Flores, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 908 137

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C/ Calderón de la Barca, s/n. Tel: 952 929 578

OCEAN CLUB

MC CAFÉ

OCHO

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

PASSION CAFÉ

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 12, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 460 232 / 648 502 822 Open for lunch and dinner every day. C.C. La Colonia, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 781 583

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. THE GUIDE listings PUROBEACH Open 11am to 8pm in May, 11am to 9pm in June and September and 11am to 10pm in July and August. C.C. Laguna Village, Playa El Padrón, Estepona. Tel: 952 800 015

TRUFFLES KITCHEN

AND THE

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

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

LEONARDO DA VINCI

Tel: 956 613 030

MAKITAKE Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ribera s/n (above disco Seven), Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 592

MECA

RESTAURANTE FELIX

VENTA GARCÍA

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

Open nightly from 7pm to 11pm. Urb. Boladilla Baja, CN340, km 163.5, Estepona. Tel: 951 082 090.

RESTAURANTE ROYAL

Open daily for lunch and dinner every day except Monday. Ctra. de Casares km 7, Casares. Tel: 952 894 191

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

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

VILLA PADIERNA CLUB DE MAR Open daily for lunch from 1pm to 6pm. CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 647 791 515

ROSAS CAFÉ

ZEST

METRO

Open from 9am to 10pm daily. Avda. Playas del Duque 3, Marbella. Tel: 951 569 392

Open Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 4:30pm and for cocktail hour from 4:30pm to 8pm. Centro Plaza, Marbella. Tel: 951 319 151

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

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

NUNOS

OMBÚ

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

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

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

SAVOR 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

ZOZOI Open Wednesday to Monday for dinner. Closed Tuesday. Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 868

italian AL DENTE

SHANTI-SOM – AMRITA

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

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

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

SKINA

ARETUSA

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

Open daily for dinner. Front line P. Banús. Tel: 952 812 898

SOLLO

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

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

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

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

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

THE ENGLISH GARDEN

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

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

DA BRUNO Open all day. Da Bruno Cabopino: CN-340 Km. 194,7. Tel: 952 831 918. Da Bruno a Casa: Marbella Mar, Local 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 521 – closed on Sunday. Da Bruno A San Pedro: Avda. del Mar, local 1E, San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 860 – closed on Monday. Da Bruno Sul Mare: Edif. Skol, Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 318/19. Da Bruno Mijas Costa: Ctra. de Mijas, km. 3.6, Mijas. Tel: 952 460 724

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

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm to 11pm and Sunday from 1.30 to 9.30pm. Closed Mondays. Avda. España 16, Urb. Buenavista, Sitio de Calahonda. Tel: 952 930 252

DAYTONA RESTAURANT – MOTOR PASSION

THE MEETING ROOM

DON GIOVANI

Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays. Avda. Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella. Tel: 952 772 577

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

THE ORANGE TREE

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

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

THE PLAYWRIGHT Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Manzana, Locales 8-11, Pueblo Los Arcos, Elviria. Tel: 952 830 868

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

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

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

Open daily from 12pm to 12am. Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 569 194

LOMBARDO’S MADE IN SARDINIA Open every night for dinner. C.C. Cristamar, Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 608

O MAMMA MIA Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pino Golf, Don Carlos, Local 1, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 365 / 658 646 829

NIKKEI 55 Open daily for lunch and dinner. Conjunto Benabola Local B2, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 229 470

NOBU

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

SAKURA

ROSMARINO DELLA PIAZZA

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda. José Banús, 5, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 536

Open every day from 12pm ‘til midnight for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinogolf de Don Carlos 34, Elviria. Tel: 952 850 148

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

SERAFINA

SAPPORO

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner at the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile. Tel: 952 771 798

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

TARTUFO

SUKHO THAI

Open every day for lunch from 1pm to 3:30pm and for dinner from 6:30pm ‘til late. C/ Tetuán 9, Marbella. Tel: 951 087 323

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

VALPARAÍSO Open nightly for dinner. Ctra. Mijas – Fuengirola, km. 14, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 485 996

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

VILLA TIBERIO

TAI PAN

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

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

mediterranean

RESTAURANTE BAR CARMEN Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 739

oriental

SUSHI KATSURA

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

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

ASIATICO ZEN

THAI GALLERY

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

At Plaza Village at the Hotel Puente Romano. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 818 392

BAMBOO Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Ctra. Istan km 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 906 674

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

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

GENJI SUSHI BAR

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, 64, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 319 778. Also at C.C. Laguna Village, Local 11-13, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 661

TSE YANG DIMSUM CLUB

GOLD RESTAURANT

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sundays. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

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

GOLDEN WOK

WAGAMAMA

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

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

KABUKI RAW

WASABI

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. At Finca Cortesín Hotel. Ctra. Casares s/n, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

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

FRASCATI

LA LOCANDA DEL PARADISO Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Paraíso Barronal, km. 167, Estepona. Tel: 951 272 371

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

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

LA TRATTORIA

KAIDEN SUSHI

scandinavian ALOHA RESTAURANT

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 every evening for dinner from 6pm to 11.30pm. Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 811 285

KAMA KURA

SKANDIES

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm. Closed Mondays. Avda. Antonio Belón, 26 (behind the

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listings THE GUIDE . lighthouse), Marbella. Tel: 952 776 323

Paseo Marítimo, 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 078

seafood

spanish

Open from 11am-4pm and 7.3011pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 790 370

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

RESTAURANTE LA MARINA

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

EL BARLOVENTO

Open every day from 1-4.30pm and 8pm until midnight. Paseo Marítimo s/n, La Atunara, La Linea de la Concepción, Campo de Gibraltar. Tel: 956 171 531

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

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

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

PALAPA Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 165

SANTIAGO Open daily for lunch and dinner.

BAHÍA

HACIENDA

LA MÁQUINA Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

LA MORAGA BISTRÓ Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces s/n, in front of El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 448

LA RED Open daily from 9.30am to 6pm. Playa La Fontanilla, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 450

MESÓN EL ADOBE Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays. Avda. La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3, Marbella. Tel. 600 003 144

MI TABERNA Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

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. THE GUIDEstars

www.russellgrant.com

RUSSELL GRANT’S Monthly Horoscopes September 2019 VIRGO (August 23rd – September 22nd)

A close relationship will show signs of strain in mid-September. The Full Moon on the 14th will fill you with a sense of urgency. Try as you might, you won’t be able to force people down a path they do not want to travel. Instead of putting more pressure on them, make a strategic retreat. After coming together and discussing your hopes, dreams and fears, a temporary separation may be in order. Sometimes the best way to repair a troubled romance is to get some distance from it. The New Moon on the 28th will attract a moneymaking opportunity. Before accepting a job offer, realise that all that glitters is not gold. What sounds like a lucrative opportunity will be more trouble than it is worth. Ask for the terms to be put in writing before signing on the dotted line. Watch your back and protect your interests.

The New Moon on the 28th will attract a moneymaking opportunity. Before accepting a job offer, realise that all that glitters is not gold

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ARIES [21 MAR – 19 APR]

An embarrassing secret will come to light on or around the 14th, due to a troubling Full Moon. A jealous colleague will shed light on a deception, putting you in an awkward position. Instead of becoming defensive, admit your mistake. Ask forgiveness. Change your behaviour. People will forgive you when they realise you have genuinely turned over a new leaf. Until then, everyone will treat you with healthy scepticism. If you feel like you’re in a toxic work environment, it may be time to look for another position. A romance shows sign of strain around the end of September. The New Moon on the 28th makes it difficult to balance your professional and private lives. It may be time to create a lifestyle that leaves more time for personal relationships. Pouring all your energy into work is no longer paying off like it once did. Be willing to change your priorities.

TAURUS [20 APR – 20 MAY]

It will be difficult to reconcile your friends with a romantic partner on the 14th. That’s when a tense Full Moon will create a stir in your social circle. Lately, the people you’ve known for years have been upset by your absence at various parties and gatherings. They think a love affair has been commanding all your attention, and perhaps they are right. You are facing the prospect of losing your friends or ending your romance. If your amour is pressuring you to turn into someone you are not, think carefully about staying in this relationship. You may be better off returning to the fold. On the 28th, the New Moon attracts a job offer that is not worth your time. You have too many family responsibilities to accept a position involving constant travel. Hold out for a better opportunity, even if it means taking temporary stints in the meantime.

GEMINI [21 MAY – 20 JUN]

Your relatives will be jealous of your career success in mid-September. The Full Moon on the 14th finds you being celebrated by your work peers. Although you’re thrilled to be recognised in such a public manner, your family is less excited. They’re resentful of how much time you spend on your job. Unless you shift focus, you’ll drive a permanent wedge between you and your kin. There’s nothing wrong with being ambitious, but you should try to be more attentive to those you love. A creative project will be more trouble than it is worth on the 28th, due to a tense New Moon. Someone who promises you royalty payments will go back on their word. Don’t give your work away for free. If you don’t get paid a good salary upon signing this deal, walk away. You have better things to do with your time and ability.

CANCER [21 JUN – 22 JUL]

A legal matter will be decided on or around the 14th, due to a tense Full Moon. You’ll be disappointed by the results. Instead of dwelling on this setback, make an exciting plan for the future. Doing something adventurous and stimulating will give you special cause to look forward. People who have been trying to create problems for you will be crushed by your upbeat outlook. Instead of falling victim to their schemes, you’ll let them roll off your back. The New Moon on the 28th could cause concern on the family front. Relatives may not approve of your choice of romantic partner. It’s important to defend your amour, even at the risk of being shunned by a judgmental elder. Cultivating the personal

life you’ve always desired will be empowering. You’re tired of being pushed around by condescending people; use the final days of September to assert your independence.

LEO [23 JUL – 22 AUG]

Arguments over an insurance refund, legal settlement or inheritance could erupt on the 14th, due to a contentious Full Moon. It will be necessary to hire a lawyer to represent your interests. Don’t respond to taunting messages from the other side. Keep a record of all the correspondence you receive. By refusing to get drawn into this drama, you will prevail financially. Be prepared for certain relationships to fall apart at the seams. You’re about to learn how money can cause people to behave in hurtful ways. The New Moon on the 28th invites you to acquire a valuable skill. Improving your technical knowledge and know-how with a demanding teacher will not be easy. It will be impossible to rest on your laurels with this instructor. Resist the urge to throw in the towel. By studying hard and doing the work that is demanded of you, you will emerge victorious.

LIBRA [23 SEP – 22 OCT]

If you keep pushing yourself too hard, you’ll suffer health problems in midSeptember. The Full Moon on the 14th invites you to take an extended break. Going on vacation will make you nervous at first. You’ll worry about job security after sleeping late and enjoying room service. Instead of giving in to your greatest fears, envision the outcome you want. When you practice the art of positive thinking, you’ll attract the opportunities you desire. Resist the temptation to alter your appearance on the 28th. That’s when the New Moon will cloud your thinking. What seems like a great idea at the end of the September will be serious cause for regret. This is not a good time to change your hairstyle, revamp your wardrobe or even opt for a whole new career. Temporary changes will give you a chance to experiment with various images and ideas until you hit upon the right combination.

SCORPIO [23 OCT – 21 NOV]

Friends will conspire against you on the 14th, when the Full Moon invites you to enjoy private pleasures. It’s time to set healthier boundaries between you and your loved ones. Coming to other people’s rescue is becoming exhausting. You need to devote more energy to the activities you love. Shopping at antique markets, communing with nature and nightclubbing could be calling your name. Don’t be defensive about how you kick back and relax. People who truly accept you will not judge your choices. The New Moon on the 28th warns against repeating secrets. You’ll make a powerful enemy after revealing privileged information. If someone is probing you for answers, block their calls and ignore their emails. You’re under no obligation to shed light on this situation. The truth will be revealed at the right time. Maintain your vow of silence; you’ll be rewarded for your discretion.

SAGITTARIUS [22 NOV – 21 DEC]

On the 14th, the Full Moon will shift your focus to family matters. It will be necessary to take time off work to cope with a real estate deal or domestic dispute. If your

employer pressures you to put in long hours, you may decide to find another job. Don’t leave your position until you secure another one. It’s much easier to find work when you’re already employed. Starting a home-based business is a distinct possibility. Working from home will allow you to be more present for a loved one who needs help. As September draws to a close, you’ll be meeting lots of people. The New Moon on the 28th could find you rubbing elbows with prominent executives at a party. Be wary about striking deals at such gatherings. If someone wants to hire you, they should schedule a formal interview in a professional setting.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC – 19 JAN]

Surprising news will arrive in midSeptember. The Full Moon on the 14th will shed light on a deception. Your outlook will change considerably after you learn the truth. Putting some distance between you and a manipulative relative will be necessary. You’re tired of being tricked into making loans, writing references and going to bat for someone who doesn’t deserve it. The sooner you tune out this pest, the happier you’ll be. You’ll have much more time for the relationships and activities you enjoy. An interesting career opportunity will arrive on or around the 28th, courtesy of the New Moon. Don’t be quick to accept a job offer that involves tremendous responsibility for very little compensation. Although you’ve always wanted to be employed by a prestigious company, it shouldn’t involve working for a pittance. Be ready to walk away from negotiations if you aren’t treated with the respect you deserve. Something better will arrive when you want it most.

AQUARIUS [20 JAN – 18 FEB]

The Full Moon on the 14th puts stress on your bank account. Fees may be deducted from your paycheque, leaving you with very little to show for your hard work. No matter how much you complain, you will not be able to recover the money you rightfully deserve. Treat this setback as a learning opportunity. Before signing a contract, show the document to a legal professional. They’ll help protect your interests. On the 28th, the anxious New Moon will make you feel like fish out of water. It will be necessary to take a crash course in a specialised subject. At times, you’ll wonder if you can do a good job with so little training. Be patient and keep asking questions. A demanding teacher may seem like a difficult person at first. As your relationship evolves, you’ll realise your instructor has your best interests at heart. Work hard to satisfy this taskmaster; the results will ultimately benefit you.

PISCES [19 FEB – 20 MAR]

You’re tired of being pushed around by a romantic or business partner. The Full Moon on the 14th demands you confront this bully. You’ve always been accommodating in relationships. There should be a limit to your generosity. The next time you are commanded to do something unpleasant, put your foot down. If this alliance falls apart at the seams, so be it. You’ll be free to pursue more rewarding relationships. There’s a strong possibility that you’ll enjoy your independence so much that you’ll wait a long time before getting involved with someone else again. The New Moon on the 28th puts a crimp in your finances. Instead of splashing out on luxuries, use your hard-earned cash to pay off debts. It will take time to fulfil all your obligations, but when you do, your confidence will soar. It will be much easier to accept challenges after you achieve economic freedom.

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