Essential Marbella February 2014

‘IN’

MARBELLA’S

SPORTS

TESLA MODEL S

MARTIAL ARTS

Masters OF THE COAST

ISSUE 174 • FEBRUARY 2014

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

e

N º174 -FEBRUARY 2014

essential essential magazine® marbella

MARBELLA

COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

Adidas STREET STYLE Going Gourmet

IN VEJER

fitness

Valentine’s

FRENZY &

GIFT IDEAS

BEAUTY DINING BUSINESS

DÉCOR

N E W S I C U LT U R E I P E O P L E I T R E N D I S T Y L E I S P A I P R O I L E I S U R E I G O U R M E T & M O R E

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Jaeger-LeCoultre: Home of timeless perfection'

JAEGER-LECOULTRE A Passion for Style, A Respect for Tradition

J

The adventure began in 1833, when self-taught watchmaker, Antoine LeCoultre set up his own workshop after inventing a pinion-cutting machine. This invention was to be followed by dozens of others, as well as hundreds of patents, each of which contributed to forging the international reputation of Swiss watchmaking. The small workshop grew so fast that it was soon nicknamed the ‘Grande Maison’ in the Vallée de Joux. By 1888, the Manufacture already employed around 500 watchmakers, technicians and artists.

aeger-LeCoultre has created and produced over 1,200 different calibres and filed more than 400 patents. The Grande Maison has a number of world firsts to its credit, along with superlative achievements and legendary watches such as the Reverso, the Duoplan, the Memovox, the Polaris, the Gyrotourbillon 1 and 2, the Duomètre line, as well as the perpetual Atmos clock. Today, over 1,000 people work within the Manufacture and master all the forms of expertise required to make this brand one of the most inventive in the watch industry.

Nothing about the Vallée de Joux apparently predestined it to become the worldwide centre of grand horological complications. Perched at an altitude of 1,000 metres far from any trade routes and surrounded by mountain passes often blocked by endless winters, the Vallée de Joux has one of the harshest climates of the entire Jura mountain region. These extreme conditions have significantly contributed to the development of the valley by stimulating the inventiveness of the men and women who settled there, by imposing an undeniable need for versatile talents, stubbornness, patience and an enterprising spirit, and by teaching them to invent in order to survive.

A key date in Jaeger-LeCoultre’s history, 1931, marked the birth of the Reverso watch. During a trip to India, César de Trey, a distributor of JaegerLeCoultre watches, met some former friends who were British army officers in colonial India. These keen polo enthusiasts challenged their Swiss acquaintance to create a watch capable of withstanding the hard knocks sustained during their favourite pastime.

Upon returning to Switzerland, De Trey confided his project to Jacques-David LeCoultre. This heralded the birth of the Reverso, a name inspired by the Latin ‘I turn around’. A simple gesture enabled the wearer to swivel the case in its carrier to protect the watch glass. The back could be personalised according to individual wishes. Featuring an attractive blend of elegance and sportiness, the Reverso became a great classic of the Art Deco cultural movement, of which it embodies the essential values: refinement, artistic craftsmanship, aesthetic clarity and a festive taste.

Equipped with functions that were particularly useful in daily life (alarm, automatic winding, time zones...), the post-war creations such as the Memovox, the Futurematic and the Geophysic have bequeathed their philosophy on the current Master Control line. Created in 1992, the latter marked a fundamental new step in the conquest of precision, since in order to deserve the title of ‘Master’, each finished watch must emerge victorious from a

stringent battery of tests performed for a complete 1,000 hours, meaning around six weeks! In setting this new benchmark, the Manufacture was able to draw upon over a century of experience. It based these developments in particular on the work relating to the high-frequency calibres introduced in 1970 and on the progress in the automatic rotor winding systems introduced in 1959.

Dominated by the spirit of invention, the first years of the 21st century are proving to be some of the most fertile in the entire history of JaegerLeCoultre. Since the year 2000, the Manufacture has created no less than 75 new calibres, including Grandes Complications, tourbillons, minute repeaters, chronographs, perpetual calendars, 15day power reserves, the first lubricant-free calibre, etc... In parallel, over 80 patents have been filed to protect inventions relating both to movements and cases. From ultra-complicated models to Haute Joaillerie creations and from complicated Atmos clocks to AMVOX, Master Compressor Diving, Reverso Squadra and the Duomètre watches, Jaeger-LeCoultre is steadily asserting itself as the reference in fine watchmaking. The 21st century also marks another crucial stage in the history of Jaeger-LeCoultre: the creation of the first Grande Complication wristwatches. g www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

4 / FEBRUARY 2014 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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Duomètre a Quantième Lunaire unaire

Master Ultra Thin Jubilee

Master aster Calendar

Grand Reverso Ultra Thin Duoface

Rendez-Vous Night & Day

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2014 / 5

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essential magazine® is now also in

Issue 174 • February 2014

S T A F F

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PUBLISHER AND DIRECTOR

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

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The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot accept Marbella Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the effects of errors or omissions. responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers.

Marbella Magazine. © Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. for 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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contents tents g The Trend Cinema 18 Home Viewing 20 Music 22 Books 24 Gadgets 26 Cars: The Tesla Model S 28

The Focus Irene Villa 32 CrossFit, Krav Maga, BootCamp, Dance 34 Martial Arts 40

The Style Decor: A Luxury Modern Villa in the Golf Valley 50 Fashion: Adidas Street Wear 58 Fashion News 64

The Spa Perfumes: Hot Scents for Valentines 68 Sports Injury Prevention 70 Electro Muscular Stimulation 71 Adherence: The Importance of Sticking to Your Fitness Plan 74

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The Pro 76 Enterprise 84 Business Profile: IDDOMUS 86 Finance: The Infamous Modelo 720

The Leisure 88 Golf Lessons 90 Travel: Vejer de la Frontera

The Gourmet 99 C’est La Vie 101 Funky Tapas 102 Food News 104 Restaurateur’s Profile: Lee Varhos of Umami 106 Low-Alcohol Wines

The Guide 108 Listings

The Blog 117 Pet News 118 What’s On 120 Stars 122 Kid’s Zone

1/28/14 12:26 PM

We really care for our clients and their families.

Yesterday, today and in the future.

Does your adviser?

We need to talk.

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

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You only live once,

Beachfront Los Monteros: Fantastically priced! Opportunity to purchase a unique, large beachfront villa in an outstanding position that can easily be converted into a modern, contemporary home and triple its value. Very private, facing the natural dunes and sea. 8 Beds, 9 Baths. Built 746 m2, plot 2.200m2.

E&V ID: W-01LBCO. Price: €5.950.000.

Bahía de Marbella: Stunning villa with sea views situated just meters from the beach in one of the most elegant beach resorts in Marbella. High qualities throughout.

Marvellous gardens with heated pool. 4 Beds, 4 baths. Built: 553 m2, plot 1.734 m2.

E&V ID: W-01U3UR. Price: €3.500.000.

Beachfront Río Real: Spectacular frontline beach penthouse in a luxurious complex in Río Real Playa, spectacular views from the large terrace. Community with mature garden, 2 pools, one of which is heated. 4 Beds, 4 bath. Living area 190 m2, terrace 100m2.

E&V ID: W-01SOOF. Price: €1.945.000.

Los Monteros Beach: Just meters from the beach, this villa is set on a double plot and offers beautiful sea views, guest house, in-and-outdoor pools, gym and a beautiful gazebo with kitchen. 5 Beds, 5 baths. Built 667 m2, plot 2.396 m2.

E&V ID: W-008W1J. Price: €3.500.000.

Elviria: Exclusive, newly built villa with outstanding coastal and sea views, situated in a prime location. Exceptional design. Private and secure gardens. 6 Beds, 5 baths. Built 676 m2, plot 1.623 m2.

E&V ID: W-01GZK6. Price: €2.250.000.

Office El Rosario: 952 83 20 40 · Office Elviria: 952 83 55 80

Argentina · Australia · Austria · Bahrein · Belgium · Bostwana · Chile · China · Croatia · Cyprus · Czech Republic · France · Germany · Great Britain · Holland · Hungary · Ireland · Italy · Jordan Luxemburg · Mozambique · Namibia · New Zealand · Peru · Portugal · Qatar · Romania · Russia · Slovenia · South Africa · Spain · Switzerland · Thailand · Turkey · UAE · Uruguay · USA · Zambia

we will show you where!

Sierra Blanca: Unique and impressive Balinese style villa, very private and secure, beautifully decorated with original features from Bali. Stunning driveway and entrance, mature gardens with a large swimming pool. Separate staff quarter. 7 beds, 7 baths, Built 904 m2, plot 2.112 m2.

E&V ID: W-00EE7V. Price reduced from € 5.500.000 € to €3.990.000.

Sierra Blanca: Stylish modern villa in a small, very exclusive gated community, offering impeccable luxury, high qualities and comfort. Cinema, bar, gym and large staff apartment. 5 Beds, 5 baths. Built 1.088 m2, plot 2.120 m2.

E&V ID: W-00QS8Y. Price: €3.500.000.

Sierra Blanca: Unmatched in grandeur and sophistication, this high quality home, built around a grand patio offers extraordinary proportions and materials. 6 Beds, 5 baths. Built 1.270 m2, plot 2.068 m2.

E&V ID: W-01LUQL. Price: €4.500.000.

Marbella Hill Club: Fantastically priced! This beautifully decorated villa, with countless unique details, oozes an abundance of space, warmth and elegance, boasting lovely sea and mountain views. 3 Beds, 2 bath. Built 368 m2, plot 508 m2.

E&V ID: W-01TXVF. Price: €950.000.

Sierra Blanca: Well priced, exquisite villa with beautiful sea views and large gardens designed by Cesar de Leyva. High qualities, antique features. Separate guest apartment and large entertainment rooms. 7 Beds, 7 baths. Built 861 m2, plot 1.867 m2.

E&V ID: W-008Q0H. Price: €2.850.000.

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

Argentina · Australia · Austria · Bahrein · Belgium · Bostwana · Chile · China · Croatia · Cyprus · Czech Republic · France · Germany · Great Britain · Holland · Hungary · Ireland · Italy · Jordan Luxemburg · Mozambique · Namibia · New Zealand · Peru · Portugal · Qatar · Romania · Russia · Slovenia · South Africa · Spain · Switzerland · Thailand · Turkey · UAE · Uruguay · USA · Zambia

Marbella Essential January 2014_Layout 1 21/01/2014 16:18 Page 1

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• Stunning Panoramic Sea & Mountain Views • Peace and Tranquillity • Huge Plot with Automatic Irrigation • 6 minute Drive from Beach & Amenities • Heated Ozone Infinity Pool

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Marbella Essential January 2014_Layout 1 21/01/2014 16:18 Page 2

Marbella

In 2013 we experienced a significant increase in‌ Exclusive Listings • Property Viewings • Offers • Sales The market is moving, are you?

If you are thinking of buying or selling in 2014, it’s time to talk to Fine & Country Marbella.

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network International netw ork of estate agents specialised in sale,, purchase the sale purchase and rental rental of prestige prestige properties. properties.

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publisher’s letter WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL

T

IN THE ZONE

174 PuL.indd 10

his February we focus on fitness. If you made a new year’s resolution to get into shape or would like to look better on the beach this summer, now is a good time to start. As you will see iin n these pages, things have changed: there’s a whole new world out there in terms of training and techniques. To determine what your regime may involve, join us on a workout as we experience some of the hottest new fitness fads, contrasting CrossFit with Boot Camps, Krav Maga, EMS and Dance Fitness.

It’s not just all about the physical either.

Many disciplines place an equal amount if not more importance on the mental and spiritual wellbeing of the practitioner and this is certainly true with martial arts, which are highly evolved in this respect. We have been fortunate enough to gain access to some of the Masters of the Coast who, in revealing interviews, talk candidly about their own particular specialities.

We also profile Irene Villa. An ETA bombing victim at only 12, she is an amazing example to us all, having overcome her adversities with a number of amazing achievements, including becoming a paralympic skier.

Elsewhere in this issue, check out the best all-electric car around: the Tesla Model S, visit charismatic Vejer de la Frontera - rapidly becoming known as a gourmet paradise, marvel at the stunning interior of an ultramodern villa in the Golf Valley, sample great new local eateries and find out why low alcohol wines may have a big future.

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trend READING / MUSIC / FILMS / GADGETS / MOTORING / TRENDS

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This month, Magazine shines a light on fitness, with a host of features focusing on the many ways to get in shape – no excuses, now! We also bring you our usual roundup of latest film and music news and take you for a ride

18

Cinema

20

Home Viewing

22

Music

24

Books

in a speedy Tesla Model S.

26

Gadgets

28

Cars: The Tesla Model S

1/24/14 11:46 AM

LUXURY VILLA SALES Advert High Res.pdf

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VERY CLOSE TO BEACHES AND PUERTO BANUS

The Internet Real Estate Specialists

trend CINEMA

WORDS MARISA CUTILL

AS

e BLOCKBUSTER

OF THE MONTH

The Book Thief » GENRE

Drama/War

» DIRECTOR

Jason Reitman (Up In the Air)

» ACTORS

Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson, Sophie Nélisse

ardadaptation of the aw The Book Thief is an l, se Lie t ou ab rkus Zusak, winning novel by Ma o is wh nt lita mi ist un mm the daughter of a Co rld ter family during Wo sent to live with a fos reality rsh ha the to as are War II. Liesel is unaw a young Jewish man of her situation until nt. the family’s baseme is allowed to hide in als ste l se Lie n grows ill, When the young ma and him to d rea to ge jud books from a local her, in rd wo the written he instils the love of ent, oc inn an m fro r he ing unwittingly convert is o wh er nk found thi wilful child into a pro a change. ke ma to d ne mi ter de

» GENRE Science Fiction » DIRECTOR José Padilha (Elite Squad)

» ACTORS Joel Kinnaman,

Douglas Urbanski, Abbie Cornish

Robocop

The 2014 version of Robocop is set in the city of Detroit. The year is 2028 and Alex Murphy, a young cop who is also a loving husband and father, is critically injured while on a mission.

A multi-national conglomerate, OnmiCorp, decides to use his remains to create a parthuman, part-robotic officer.

» GENRE Animation » DIRECTOR Phil Lord, Chris Miller,

Chris McKay (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs) » VOICES Will Ferrell, Liam Neeson, Alison Brie, Morgan Freeman

Lego: The Piece of Resistance

Kids and adults alike have been waiting for this film to hit the screens, and finally, the whole family has a chance to head for the movies together. Lego is, as you might imagine, inspired on Lego construction toys and the film features some of the most popular Lego figures ever: Batman, Wonderwoman, Robin and many more new characters who will undoubtedly inspire some new purchases at the toy store.

» GENRE Thriller » DIRECTOR Denis

» GENRE Drama » DIRECTOR Jason

» ACTORS Jake Gyllenhaal,

» ACTORS Josh

Villeneuve (Prisoners)

Mélanie Laurent, Isabella Rossellini

Enemy

Adam (Jake Gyllenhaal) is a mentally unstable University Professor who inadvertently discovers Anthony, a man who looks exactly like him. Adam grows obsessed with finding his doppelganger and when he does, a tense power struggle ensues between the two, leading to dire consequences for the people they love.

Reitman (Up In the Air)

Brolin, Kate Winslet, Clark Gregg

Labor Day

Oscar winning actor, Kate Winslet gives life to Adele, a single mother who is riding in her car one day with her son, when she is stopped by a wounded man (Josh Brolin). The man turns out to be a convict, yet as mother and son learn about the circumstances that have placed him on the wrong side of the law, they realise that his cause is as worth fighting for as the man himself.

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Peter Segal (50 First Dates) » ACTORS Kevin Hart, Alan Arkin, Kim

Basinger, John Bernthal

Grudge Match

Robert De Niro and Sylvester Stallone may be golden oldies but they prove they still have some gumption left in them in Grudge Match, where they play two retired boxers who are coaxed out of retirement for one final, decisive bout.

18 / FEBRUARY 2014 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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1/23/14 10:41 AM

Marbella Golden Mile – Ref. MPV1880

One of the most beautiful beachside properties left for sale on the Golden Mile, in one of the most desirable areas next to the Marbella Club Hotel. Set in a large, flat plot with magnificent mature gardens and fabulous pool which look out towards the sea only 150m away, this stunning property is definitely for those looking to be at one of the most highly considered addresses in Marbella. The possibility to add a second floor would turn this already amazing home into a truly unique property in a location envied by all.

Beds: 5 • Baths: 5 • Built: 716 m2 • Plot: 4.981 m2 • PRICE: 15.000.000 €

Embrujo Playa, Puerto Banus – Ref. MPA2121

La Zagaleta, Benahavis – Ref. MPV2087

Spacious ground floor apartment within walking distance to Puerto Banus and San Pedro. Embrujo Playa is a luxury beachside complex offering 24hour security, lovely tropical gardens, 2 swimming pools, and only a couple of minutes’ walk from the beach. Very tastefully furnished. Great price!

Magnificent contemporary-style mansion in one of Europe’s most select Country Clubs. Large open-plan areas, double height ceilings, and extensive use of glass accentuate open spaces and enhance the breathtaking views. Lifestyle features include: home cinema, fitness gym and sauna, guest cottage.

Beds: 2 • Baths: 2 • Built: 175 m2 • Terrace: 37 m2 • PRICE: 360.000 €

Beds: 6 • Baths: 6 • Built: 2.200 m2 • Plot: 8.000 m2 • PRICE: 8.500.000 €

Los Naranjos, Nueva Andalucia – Ref. MPV2125

Altos del Rodeo, Nueva Andalucia – Ref. MPV2116

Villa situated in a private gated street in the heart of Nueva Andalucia with views towards the golf course and surrounding mountains. The property is finished to a high standard. Well kept mature gardens and heated pool. Double private garage. A lovely property only 4km from Puerto Banus.

With a clean-cut refined design, this magnificent contemporary home offers everything that a modern lifestyle requires: large airy spaces, modern features combined with natural materials, and smart technology. Lovely garden with pool and fishpond. Good location, near the beach and San Pedro.

Beds: 4 • Baths: 5 • Built: 480 m2 • Plot: 1.300 m2 • PRICE: 1.100.000 €

Beds: 4 • Baths: 4 • Built: 570 m2 • Plot: 1.050 m2 • PRICE: 1.200.000 €

Centro Expo Loc. 11-12, Bulevar Alfonso Hohenlohe, 29602 (Marbella, Málaga) Tel: 952 866 072 • Fax: 952 866 963 • info@mpdunne.com • www.mpdunne.com MP Dunne Properties 174 Mary Dunne.indd 1

@mpdunne

MP Dunne 1/23/14 3:14 PM

trend HOME VIEWING

Marisa Cutillas brings us a few of the season’s top DVD releases.

» GENRE Drama » DIRECTOR Terrence Malick (Tree of Life)

» ACTORS Ben Affleck, Olga Kurylenko, Javier Bardem » IMDB RATING 6.1/10

To The Wonder

It’s all or nothing once again for genius Director, Terrence Malick. If, in Tree of Life, he delved into profound questions such as the nature of identity, parenting and family, in To the Wonder, he introduces us to the very essence of love. For Malick, love is not a choice but a feeling that takes over and transforms us, so much so that we dive into it headlong, regardless of the risk, uncertainty and pain it can bring. The film centres on the character of Neil (Ben Affleck), an America in Europe who falls in love with Marina (Olga Kurylenko), a Ukrainian single mother who moves to the US with him. After the initial sparks subside, she grows close to a priest (Javier Bardem), who is undergoing a crisis of faith. Neil and Marina connect and reconnect during various parts of the film as the fragile, mysterious nature of their relationship is revealed.

ASE OF THE MONTH

D RELE e FEATURED DV » GENRE Crime/ Drama

» DIRECTOR

Giuseppe Tornatore (Cinema Paradiso)

» ACTORS

Geoffrey Rush, Jim Sturgess, Sylvia Hoeks

» IMDB

RATING 7.7/10

r e ff O t s e The B Fast & Furious 6

Fast & Furious may be light, fast-paced and commercial but with six films and counting, it is also one of the most entertaining, guaranteed crowd-pleasers to hit the big screen in recent years.

Dom, Brian and Mia are back and this time it’s personal. The film begins when Dom (Diesel) calls the crew together to put an end to the reign of an evil entrepreneur at the helm of an organisation of mercenary drivers. Dom, who thought he had lost his greatest love (Lettie, played by Michelle Rodriguez) is shocked when during a heist, he recognises her face behind the wheel of a sexy hot rod.

» GENRE Action » DIRECTOR Justin Lin (Fast Five) » ACTORS Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez

» IMDB RATING 7.2/10

about Giuseppe There is little not to like Best Offer. Set The Tornatore’s latest film: tions, it stars auc art of rld wo in the erudite who plays h, Rus the magnificent Geoffrey seller who art and aire lion an eccentric mil young bic ho rap is approached by an ago inherited has she art of rks woman to sell wo the film, of f hal first from her father. For the lls of her wa the ind beh Claire remains hidden only we and nsion crumbling European ma sona, per ed ubl tro her te hear her voice. Despi ely ang s her str the old auctioneer find ers that she hides cov dis n soo and g uilin beg pes to unlock. ho he ry ste an enticing my me five awards at the The Best Offer took ho ing Best Film and lud inc s, Italian film award Best Director.

House at the End of the Street » GENRE Terror » DIRECTOR Mark Tonderai (Hush) » ACTORS Jennifer Lawrence, Max Theriot, Elisabeth Shue

» IMDB RATING 5.5/10 Elissa and her mother have just moved to a new city, and they instantly fall in love with their new home, despite the fact that it is next door to a house where a young girl was assassinated. Elissa makes friends with the girl’s brother and soon discovers that there is a powerful secret hidden within the walls of his home – a sinister history of murder that is far from over.

The Internsip

The dynamic duo is back.

Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughan, whose amazing chemistry dates back to films like The Wedding Crashers, delight us once again in The Internship, where they play two unemployed middle aged salesmen who lose their jobs owing to technology. They manage to rise above their circumstances, impressing the Google Human Resources team with their infantile yet rather creative banter. When they are offered an internship at the renowned company, they are forced to test their mettle against a group of young upstarts in a competition to secure permanent jobs.

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Shawn Levy (Date Night) » ACTORS Vince Vaughn, Owen

Wilson, Jared Stern

» IMDB RATING 6.2/10

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¿QUÉ PASA?

WORDS RIK FOXX

The Brit Awards will be live on ITV on February 19 with the ARCTIC MONKEYS, KATY PERRY, BRUNO MARS, RUDIMENTAL plus top award nominees BASTILLE all performing live – the show is always delayed by a few minutes just in case any ‘incidents’ occur – and with MILEY CYRUS expected to be on the bill…

America will salute one of the most significant events in its TV history on February 9 with The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute To The Beatles – 50 years to the date that they made their US debut on The Ed Sullivan Show. Over 74 million people tuned in to watch the group perform five songs and there is talk that PAUL and RINGO may play live together. Several other acts will pay tribute including DAVE STEWART and ANNIE LENNOX who are reforming the EURYTHMICS for a one-off performance. But it looks like one band who many would like to reform have had a change of heart – for the past few years, members of the FACES have tried to persuade ROD STEWART to join them on stage with no joy. He has now had a change of heart but it looks like it’s a case of too little too late as keyboard player IAN McLAGAN and drummer KENNEY JONES are busy on other projects and RONNIE WOOD is touring this year with the ROLLING STONES. Over the past few years, the band have played several gigs with MICK HUCKNALL of SIMPLY RED on the mike as ROD wasn’t interested.

Despite their mother’s attempts to get them talking over the festive period the GALLAGHER brothers are still on square one after NOEL has blanked a mega money deal to tour for the 20th anniversary of the OASIS debut LP. Meanwhile LIAM and BEADY EYE are in Madrid (Feb 12) and Barcelona (Feb 13).

KE$HA topped the UK singles chart last month with her collaboration on the PITBULL tune Timber and as a reward her bosses sent her into rehab – was it drink or drugs? – neither – it was to lose weight – they reckoned she needed to shed 15 pounds – a statement that made her mother very angry.

MCBUSTED singer MATT WILLIS is in for a busy 2014, he is on Eastenders, the comedy show Birds of a Feather and a tour with the much hyped MCFLY/BUSTED alliance. CHARLIE SIMPSON may not be part of this venture but he will still pocket a six-figure sum from the super group coalition due to a contractual agreement made some years ago.

Instead he will concentrate on his own solo project as it looks like the FIGHTSTAR hiatus, announced in 2010, shows no sign of ending.

off to a flying star t SAM SMITH got his new year Critics’ Choice Award s Brit the h when he won bot nd Of 2014. The and the prestigious BBC Sou year supplying vocals last e fam to t 21-year-old sho GHT Y BOY’s La La La NAU on DISCLOSURE’s Latch and Money On My Mind le sing ut deb his and will release on February 16. ase their first 1970s legends SLADE are to rele two of the original with only but rs album for 27 yea drummer DON and members. Guitarist DAVE HILL r bass player afte ying fl ag fl the t kep POWELL have 2 – the 199 in left JIMMY LEA and NODDY HOLDER s and day se the y eas it es tak er 67-year old sing instead e mik ion stat io prefers shouting into a rad sum gure six-fi a king ban are you if – then again, not? why g, son as istm every year with an old Chr

Has the BIEBER bubble burst in the UK? His latest album Journals made little impact on the charts and there were no sell-out signs up at cinemas for his flick Believe – and it’s not much better on the other side of the pond either. He was up to his tricks Down Under and was called a “female vagina” by a woman customs officer at Brisbane airport – well at least she was polite – everybody else refers to him with a ruder word for said body part!

Will he become last year’s model? A possible replacement is ELYAR FOX. Sony Music are said to be putting all their power behind this new kid on the block. The 18 year-old London born pretty boy is being promoted for the young girl market and his debut single, Do It All Over Again dropped last month.

Yours truly is not a lover of JAMES BLUNT but credit where it’s due – while many surrender to the twit-tering of internet trolls he has been giving as good as he gets. Examples: “Why have you only got 200k followers?

To which he replied “Jesus only needed 12”; – “Why does James Blunt sing like his willy is being stood on?” – answer: “Damn thing’s always getting caught under my feet”. Gold medal award: “Does James Blunt only have that one song?” – his response: “Says the none-hit wonder”.

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trend BOOKS

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Five Sports Biographies You Can’t Afford to Miss

In line with this month’s theme of health, fitness and sport, Marisa Cutillas brings us five biographies which provide a unique insight into the making of some of the world’s most famous athletes.

MESSI BY GUILLEM BALAGUE

Leo Messi is officially Barcelona’s top goal scorer of all time; in the year 2012 alone, he scored a staggering 91 goals, was proclaimed FIFA World Player of the Year and took home the FIFA Ballon D’or for the third year in a row. This book is a comprehensive study into the making of the genius, beginning with his early years in his native El Rosario, running through his formative period with Barcelona and concluding with his life and performance in the peak of his career.

SEVENTY-SEVEN

BY ANDY MURRAY

On July 7, 2013, Andy Murray became the first British man to take home the Wimbledon trophy in 77 years. His new autobiography focuses on the two years of his life leading up to Wimbledon, including his tough training programme, the mental and physical challenges he overcame to make it to the top, and the authentic love he shares with the members of his training team. Murray is currently ranked number four in the world, and number one in the UK.

RUNNING BY RONNIE O’SULLIVAN DAVID BECKHAM

BY DAVID BECKHAM

Famed footballer, David Beckham, displays an unexpectedly poetic writing style in this fascinating autobiography, which takes us through his childhood and early days as a football star and reveals the ambition, obsession and authentic love for the sport that would turn him into an icon. Beckham’s engaging writing style is complemented by a series of photographs that highlight his athletic prowess and physical beauty.

UNDISPUTED TRUTH: MY AUTOBIOGRAPHY BY MIKE TYSON Mike Tyson pulls no punches in his first autobiography, Undisputed Truth: My Autobiography, sharing the story of how abuse, drugs and the absence of love prevented him from developing a true sense of self. From the time of his childhood (Tyson grew up in a brothel run by his mother), to his dizzy rise up the competitive world of boxing; from his marriage to Robin Givens to his odd relationship with his Manager, Don King, Tyson was plagued by crippling self-doubt, which would lead him to make all the wrong decisions. We discover how imprisonment changed the pugilist, providing a place for him to discover literary greats like Dostoyevsky.

Tyson continues to struggle to find a place of peace.

Reigning World Snooker Champion, Ronnie O’Sullivan, credits the sport of running with having saved his life. He begins his emotionally powerful book by saying: “In the first half (of my life) it was more drink, drugs and Prozac that kept me on the straight and narrow… this time round, it’s been the running that’s kept my head straight… without running, I reckon I would have given up on the game a long time ago.

Running is my religion, my belief system, my way of keeping calm. Running is painful and horribly physical, but it’s also probably the nearest I get to a spiritual high. I want to share my running buzz with everyone… it might encourage others to get out in the fresh air, put your foot down and get a serotonin boost”. The book reveals the highs and lows of his life, delving into the imprisonment of his father, his addiction to drugs, his fortuitous meeting with Psychiatrist, Dr. Steve Peters, and his greatest treasure – his children.

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Nueva Andalucia Property Specialist With the choice of Villas, Townhouses or Apartments we can smooth your journey through the world of Marbella real estate and help you arrive at your dream destination.

LOS POTROS

NUEVA ANDALUCIA

ALCORES DEL GOLF

NUEVA ANDALUCIA

Spacious Townhouse: west facing in the popular development of Los Potros, with panoramic views of the valley from the master bedroom.

Just a short drive from Puerto Banus and the beach.

Exceptional Penthouse: frontline of Los Naranjos Golf. Unbeatable views over the golf course, sea and mountains. Just a short drive to Puerto Banus and the beach.

REF: T3169

REF: A3655

BED: 3

BATH: 2

GOLF VALLEY

BUILT: 130m2

PRICE: €375,000

NUEVA ANDALUCIA

BED: 3

BATH: 3

BUILT: 154m2

PLAYAS DEL RODEO

PRICE: €545,000

PUERTO BANUS

Beautiful Villa: recently fully refurbished with large modern kitchen and underfloor heating. If you like the stunning views of La Concha mountian this is the right property for you!

Modern Villa: within walking distance to Puerto Banus. This villa offers a lot of “extras” plus a high ceiling living room with wide sliding doors that open completely to give you full access of the terrace and garden.

REF: V3129

REF: V4371

BED: 3

BATH: 2

BUILT: 220m2

PRICE: €755,000

BED: 4

BATH: 4

BUILT: 568m2

PRICE: €1,200,000

CONTACT US TODAY +34 952 811 552 info@nordicamarbella.com nordicapropertymarbella.com

trend ELECTRONICS

1

2

In line with this month’s theme, Marisa Cutillas presents you with a select list of gadgets that will soon have you in the best shape of your life.

TOP 6 GADGETS for Fitness Junkies

3

4

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1 FITBIT ARIA WI-FI SMART SCALE: This savvy scale measures your weight, body fat percentage and Body Mass Index, tracking your progress and wirelessly syncing your statistics with online graph and mobile tools that enable you to see exactly where you’re going, and how fast. i www.fitbit.com 2 NIKE+ FUELBAND: This little band contains an accelerometerbased movement sensor that records all the exercise you do, converting it into ‘NikeFuel’ that changes an LED metre from red to green as soon as you have achieved your target workout level. The device also measures the calories you have burned, the steps you have taken and the time you have spent in action. i www.nike.com 3 SENNHEISER PMX 680I SPORTS HEADPHONES: This lightweight set is perfect for those who like to work up a sweat without their headphones repeatedly falling out. Super stable, stylish and sturdy, these sporty headphones will ensure you stay motivated with the music of your choice, throughout your fitness routine. i www.sennheiser.com 4 BELKIN PROFIT ARMBAND FOR IPHONE 5: Keep your mind completely focussed in your workout with this cool armband, made of a special material that wicks away perspiration and comes with a small pocket where you can keep your keys or cash. The armband is made of a fully washable material and offers full screen protection, so you can take your phone along with you even on the most adernalin-charged workouts. i www.belkin.com 5 CAMELBAK ALL-CLEAR: If you’re a biker or trekker who likes to venture forth into the great unknown, you may just need this cool water purifying bottle, which uses UV light to eradicate any bacteria in water in just one minute. i www.camelbak.com 6 LEICA PINMASTER II: If you’re a keen golfer who likes to keep an eye on your surrounds and know the distance you have to reach the pin, the Leica Pinmaster II is just the device you need. The device features a 7x magnification lens and a crisp, clear LED display. i www.leica.com

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TESLA

Model S 4-Door Electric Saloon When they think of pure electric vehicles, widely known as ‘EVs,’ most people conjure up visions of the smaller models which are sometimes based on petrol-powered entry-level hatchbacks. It’s certainly true that several EVs have appeared based on conventional-drivetrain production cars like the Ford Focus and there have been a fair number that were purpose-designed for the job – good examples here would be the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV. WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TESLA

B

ut there’s a growing trend among vehicle manufacturers to target the luxury market with EVs and several makers have shown concept vehicles or even displayed models that have been promised for production. But one carmaker – Tesla – is out in front of them all with its big, opulent, Model S saloon, which has been on sale since 2012 in the US and is now available in Europe.

Before taking a look at this amazing luxury car, it may not be a bad idea to clear up confusion surrounding vehicles with alternative drivetrains.

Generally speaking, there are three main contenders right now in what many call the green car segment.

At the moment, buyers can choose hybrids, plugin hybrids and full electric cars. Put simply, hybrids use an electric motor(s) to contribute towards the task of powering the car and this is associated with a battery plus various technologies that help charge this battery using power otherwise wasted.

Some hybrids are capable of running on the electric motor alone for brief spells under certain driving conditions, while others operate with the engine running continually.

With a plug-in hybrid, it’s possible to charge up a high-capacity battery and use only the electric motor for journeys of moderate duration. The petrol

engine can be considered an ‘emergency backup’ of sorts as long as the driver can keep the battery charged. Run out of fuel and the vehicle reverts seamlessly to engine power alone. With a plug-in hybrid, it’s possible to run for weeks without fuel if, for example, a commuter has somewhere to charge the battery at work. With some plug-in hybrids, the engine is not connected to the wheels at all, but is there only to charge the battery.

With a pure electric vehicle, there is no internal combustion engine at all, only the electric motor or motors and the battery. Many EVs have limited ranges and restricted speeds (once the battery loses its charge, you’re not going anywhere), though all are capable of full road use and can travel at motorway speeds. With the Tesla system, the usual barriers of range and power have been shattered and the car offers performance and range comparable with a conventional luxury car.

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The Model S is an exceptionally handsome large saloon car and looks as good or better than any four-door product in this size class, whether built

by Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW, Maserati or Porsche. It’s a very clean, graceful, design with few protruding features to mar the slinky aluminum exterior bodywork. For most people, their first look at a Tesla Model S is a big surprise because they associate EVs with tiny lozenge-shaped economy cars with fairly low levels of luxury and convenience. But the Model S has all you’d expect from a large premium car and perhaps even more.

From a technical standpoint, the Model S breaks all kinds of conventions – even in the electric car field. The batteries are part of the floor and in addition to taking up very little usable space, they actually contribute towards the car’s ruggedness and safety. The advanced electric powertrain is located between the rear wheels. As with all electric cars, power comes on ‘right now’ as there are no gears to work up through. Electric motors also have impressive torque characteristics and on top of all this, the car is almost uncannily quiet.

The Model S can be charged from a standard electrical outlet and this is an all-night job, but there are charging alternatives that offer very quick battery top-ups. In many parts of the world, public quick-charging stations are popping up and some of them are free. It’s not easy to work out the exact cost of running an EV, but compared to topping up at a petrol pump, the difference is dramatic to say the least. Range with this remarkable car can be as high as 500 km or more with the optimal

battery, which is way better than any electric car ever to reach full production, never mind one with seating for five.

The Model S uses a sophisticated lightweight suspension design which makes handling both agile and responsive. An air suspension system lowers the car when it’s cruising the motorway and helps increase range thanks to better aerodynamics.

The driver can adjust this suspension using the instrument panel touchscreen – handy when traversing snow-covered roads en route to the ski slopes.

The opulent interior of the Model S will impress anyone with a feel for good design – the kind of people who appreciate Apple products and Leica cameras. It’s simple and straightforward yet no less comfortable and inviting for that. Much of the cockpit work is tackled using a huge touchscreen and like all such devices, it’s very easy to get used to. Anyone familiar with an iPad will get the hang of it very quickly.

The Tesla Model S is really an awesome machine and could easily be described as one of the world’s most advanced cars. Tesla’s major achievement is to bring zero-emission driving to the luxury class without cutting any corners as far as equipment goes. This car has every feature one could wish for and looks every bit the high-end premium saloon that it is. It doesn’t appear to have any serious shortcomings to speak of and best of all, you’ll never have to stop at a service station again. It’s no wonder that the Model S was named World Green Car of the Year in 2013 and, so far, over 25,000 have been sold worldwide. e

Z ENGINE 270 kW 362-horsepower or 310 kW 416-horsepower electric power unit. Two battery packs offered.

Z TRANSMISSION Fully automatic single speed system.

Z ACCELERATION Zero to 100 km/h in under 4.4-seconds (310 kW motor).

Z TOP SPEED Over 210 km/h (310 kW motor).

Z I LIKED Great styling, on a par with the very best rivals in the full-size luxury car market.

Outstanding performance for an EV (or in fact, for any vehicle in this size range). Very nicely built with great comfort and lots of high-tech features. No stopping for petrol!

Z I DIDN’T LIKE Not much to dislike about this car, though since it’s a hatchback, a rear wiper would be nice. Hopefully, long-term reliability won’t be a problem and battery life will be lengthy and trouble free.

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES In this class, the only rivals are (non EV) hybrid products from Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and Porsche.

Z WHO DRIVES ONE? People who want to drive a large luxury car, but are not happy about the depletion of fossil fuel. Drivers who want to ‘go green’ but don’t want to give up on performance and prestige.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY Available in Europe as of August 2013 at prices ranging from approximately € 70.000 to € 92.400.

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2014 / 29

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DANESA

LA

La revista danesa en España / Det danske magasin i Spanien

JANUAR 2013

NORSKE Det norske månedsmagasinet på Costa del Sol

Det

magasinet

S PA N I E N F Ö R S V E N S K A R

Sesongen er godt i gang på Europas sørligste skisportssted, Pradollano i Sierra Nevada.

Et ægte boutique-hotel

De vinder mere og mere frem, særligt i de europæiske storbyer, og nu også i de spanske.

La Danesa har studeret det hippe boutique-fænomen.

Mandesnak hos Mærsk

Torben Gram forlod sit job i Danmark til fordel for et liv i Spanien uden på forhånd at have arbejde, bolig eller kendskab til sproget.

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

Jacob Haugaard er tilbage

La Danesa har mødt manden, som den 17. februar besøger Kysten med sit show ”Jacob – Solo”.

Spanske barn møtte Karius & Baktus

Siesta - myter og realiteter

Nesten 200 spanske barn og deres foreldre fikk nylig sitt første møte med de norske tanntrollene Karius og Baktus.

Du trodde kanskje at siestaen var en så inngrodd del av spansk kultur at ingenting kan rokke ved den. Tro om igjen!

Loja - en blomst blant torner Loja ligger 60 km vest for Granada, og det var selveste Isabel la Católica som i 1486, da byen overga seg til de kristne, kalte byen en blomst blant torner – “flor entre espinas”.

JANUAR 2013

Ecológico

Med inspiration hentet i Spanien og i Wien har Kirsten Vaupel begået sin første roman, og kan nu tilføje titlen forfatter til rækken af kulturelle hverv på sit farverige visitkort.

El Mercadillo

Les mer om aktiviteter på Costa de Sol i ¿Qué pasa?

Kirsten Vaupel debuterer med roman

Tomatkrig, vikingeslag og tyreløb, religiøse optog, pilgrimsfærd og menneskepyramider er blandt højdepunkterne på Spaniens kuriøse, kulturelle kalender.

en

Januari 2013

Sesong i Sierra Nevada

• Interviews • Nyheder • Bolig • Finans • Udflugter • Sport • Fakta • Kultur • Profiler • Politik • Mode • Helse

Kuriøse fiestas año 2013

sueco

Fler och fler upptäcker kustens kanske hälsosammaste marknad

Utflykt

El Escorial tronar på minnen om makt och historia.

Motor

Trike – trehjulingar för vuxna.

Resa

Läs ett vykort från Aten.

Profil

Lennart Lundquist är mannen bakom Internetsidorna Svenskar i Spanien.

Golf

Det nya året inleds med stora rabatter.

CULTURE / HISTORY / FEATURES

focus FAMOUS PEOPLE / INTERVIEWS / HUMOUR

Nowadays, getting in tip-top condition is easier than ever, thanks to fitness crazes like CrossFit, Krav Maga, Bootcamps and Dance classes. Additionally, Kung Fu, Jiu Jitsu and Tai Chi are just a few martial arts which boast a fascinating history and philosophy – read up on some of the most popular forms in our revealing feature! We hope you feel inspired by Irene Villa, who reveals how sport can turn a life around after great tragedy.

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Irene Villa

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THE FOCUS people WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS

The Indomitable

Irene Villa I

rene lost both legs and three fingers and her mother, an arm and a leg. If, in times past, terrorist attacks had been limited to members of the police force and the civil guard, this atentado was different: Irene’s mother was a mere public servant and her daughter, a most unlikely target.

The young girl shocked and deeply moved the nation when one of the first declarations she made was, “How lucky we are, Mum, how lucky that our spinal column wasn’t affected”. Mother and daughter may have lost limbs but they could still enjoy a much higher quality of life than they would have if paralysis had taken hold.

Immediately after the explosion, Irene’s father was said to have told hospital staff to make no attempts to save his daughter; he could not envision her waking up and having to come to terms with this tragedy.

In a telling déjà vu, almost 20 years later, he would once again question Irene’s decision to form part of the world’s first Adaptive Ski Team. “You never skied before

Irene Villa was just 12 years old when a bomb placed in her mother’s car by terrorist group, ETA, changed her future in a second. your accident,” the worried father told his daughter, “Why do you have to do so now?” Of course, he soon understood that Irene was determined, not only to lead a life as rich and varied as she would have if that fateful accident had not occurred, but to reach for even higher ground, deeming her survival a kind of calling to live the fullest life there is: one filled with challenges conquered, snowpeaked mountains climbed and descended and danger, met with courage and defiance.

In many ways, the philosophy she embraced was the antithesis of resignation: “Without hope, you do not believe that you can achieve things. You think that all will be in vain; that you might as well do nothing; that life will be sad and difficult and devoid of all value.

Yet when you make an effort, you are consistent and above all, you

hope that you will get better, at that precise moment, you realise that your life has just begun. It may not be the life you would have chosen, but it is the one you have been called upon to live. It should not be wasted”.

Irene acknowledges that many world events make it easy to lose hope, yet reminds us that there is no greater evil than apathy: “We cannot find refuge in fear or passivity; we must fight against the violence and pain unleashed by terrorist acts. This is the same spirit we can use to combat illness, natural disasters and other situations that test our limits – nearly always, these events make us stronger”.

During the reign of President José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, she was highly critical of any attempt at negotiation with ETA, since she understandably believes that no

concessions should be made.

Irene has accomplished many things, working alongside terrorist victim groups, speaking in public and attending various marches against terrorism. Interestingly, she has said that she sometimes wishes that her name were disassociated from anything to do with ETA. One very much senses her determination to be the best at whatever she does. In reality, the girl just cannot resist a good challenge.

She has a degree in Journalism (as well as in Psychology, Humanities and Audiovisual Communication) and a Masters in Communication and Journalism. She is a Journalist, Radio Presenter, Public Speaker and Author (she has published three books), though she often says that her “true passion” is the sport of skiing.

As a paralympic alpine skier, Irene has taken home many gold medals in national skiing competitions. In 2011, she was deemed Champion of the Spanish Cup (chair modality) and in March, 2013, she became Spanish

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Champion in slalom, in addition to Runner-Up in the Super Giant and Giant slalom competitions. In a recent interview at Onda Cero, she shared the story of how she was first seduced by the powdery white slopes: “When I was originally asked to ski, I kind-of just went along to have the photo taken but, that day, I fell down so many times and had such a miserable time that I thought, ‘This can’t get

the best of me!’. I have always been hard-headed; thanks to my stubbornness, I have obtained my degrees and Masters degree and travelled the world; I’ve got an innate fighting spirit, and the difficulty of this particularly sport really appeals”.

Irene recalls how many times, injuries sustained on the slopes prevented her from competing: “Some days you just have to wait in the boxes until you

feel better”. For her, “The snow is symbolic of the challenge that is life. It obliges you to overcome; you have no choice but to do so if you want to get somewhere”. The snow is mysterious, tricky and welcoming all at once for Irene. “When you ski with fear, you fall. That is why I always smile while I’m skiing – that was the way that I started winning medals”.

The author beams as she speaks about another great passion: her new baby. She tears up as she recalls the wonder of becoming a mother. Irene is married to Argentinean Photographer, Juan Pablo Lauro, who shares her passion for travel and sport.

Irene is currently busy promoting her new book: Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde, Princesa (It Is Never Too Late, Princess), whose title is inspired on Spanish cantautor, Joaquín Sabina’s emotive song, Princesa, in which the poet bids farewell to his love, telling her that he is no longer willing to accompany her on her self-destructive journey.

Villa’s novel concerns a group of tortured souls who all have a cross to bear: illness, addiction, eating disorders and self-doubt. Their problems are shared by real people in Irene’s life, whom she likes to call “angels on earth”.

When asked to summarise her philosophy of life, Irene often mentions a phrase which is attributed to the Buddha: “’Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional’. We must accept the circumstances that have been thrust upon us and realise that no matter how much we cry, nothing is going to change. It is never too late to forgive, ask for forgiveness, fall in love, achieve a goal, travel, find a job… when we accept reality as it is, we begin to smile and suddenly, reality is turned inside out…” e

Irene Villa presenting her latest book at the Fundación Cajasol © Photography Courtesy of Cajasol

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THE FOCUS fitness

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CROSSFIT

Transforming Bodies, Minds and Lives

Unless you’ve been tucked up in a hole somewhere, chances are, you’ve heard of the utterly addictive, intense and transformational fitness programme called CrossFit. Founded by former Olympian gymnast, Greg Glassman, Crossfit is a strength and conditioning methodology that works on overall fitness by taking elements from a number of different training regimes, including gymnastics, Olympic weightlifting and metcon. The results, after just a few weeks, are spectacular with many participants seeing elusive ‘abs’ appear and losing serious amounts of body fat. Karl Wall, Founder of CrossFit Elviria, hits the nail on the head when he says, “Our speciality is not specialising”. The crux to the CrossFit method, says Karl, is using “high-intensity and constantly varied functional movements. One 15-minute CrossFit session can provide the same results as a traditional one- to two-hour traditional workout”. A typical class comprises gymnastic exercises, weight lifting and cardio training, with a strong focus on correct technique and injury prevention.

Karl Wall is the perfect spokesperson for CrossFit, since he has run through the gamut of training regimes, as a member of the Royal Marines and then as a Personal Trainer running successful boot camps both in the UK and in Spain. Karl’s personal story is incredibly inspiring; you’ll be hard-pressed to find another trainer who is this hard-core. Karl has led an intense life, suffering from serious injuries after being caught in an explosion while serving in Iraq. He lifts his shirt and shows me the scars, which run along his side and back, fearful yet life-affirming all at once. “It took me years to recover mentally and physically from that event,” he says. “I went from being the fittest soldier to someone who could hardly do anything. In 2006, my family and I moved to Spain and I began the day-by-day process of rehabilitation”.

While still in the process of recovery, Karl completed a Personal Training course in the UK and founded his own company, Commando Fitness, on the Coast (he also carried out boot camps in Scotland and Spain). “I was overwhelmed with clients,” he admits, “because of everything that had happened to me and because of my passion for fitness”. Karl began training up to eight hours a day, a process which took a serious toll on his body. Physically and mentally drained, he accepted a lucrative position in private security, protecting ocean vessels against pirate attacks. “Being away from my wife and children began to seriously affect me and one day, while having a meal with my wife, I said, ‘I’m not going back to sea’. At around the same time, I had just discovered CrossFit through a friend. After being used to training for a good eight hours daily, I could not believe that I could achieve

the same success from a five-minute workout. I instantly knew that this method was for me”. Karl passed the highly demanding CrossFit exams in London and proceeded to open the CrossFit Elviria box. At that time, he met Esteban, another level one CrossFit Instructor who helps run classes and teaches On Ramp (introductory CrossFit) Courses.

He likewise conducts Olympic lifting Classes and Tekker (technique) classes twice a week. In the words of Karl, “you will find it difficult to find an athlete any where in the world with such muscle mass to have such amazing flexibility and moves as graceful as those of a white dove, while carrying out Olympic lifting moves”.

If you are interested in CrossFit, there are various classes in the morning and evening, as well as special six-day On Ramp courses for beginners. If it has been a while since you have last worked out, don’t let that get you down: one of the best things about CrossFit is that it is scalable to every level. “Every day,” says Karl, “we post everyone’s results on Facebook, indicating the exercises they have completed and their times.

Everyone enjoys trying to beat someone else’s time or improve their own”. If you have weight to lose, you are unsatisfied with your shape or you feel stuck in a plateau, visit the friendly team at CrossFit Elviria: do as their slogan says and “Take the bull by the horns!”

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Classes take place from 9:30am to 11:30am, 2:30pm to 3:30pm, 5:50pm to 6:50pm and 7pm to 8pm. The on-ramp course for beginners takes place from 10:30am to 11:30am for six days. Karl is offering a free On Ramp course for the first 20 readers who call and mention magazine.

Polígono Industrial, Elviria.

Tel: 663 025 724. www.crossfitelviria.com

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KRAV MAGA Self-Defence in the Real World

Ismo Ivakko walks into the essential offices, his strong hands and confident gait speaking reams about his formidable physical and mental strength. The renowned Krav Maga Master, who hails from Finland, began his love affair with martial arts at the tender age of 14, immersing himself in the varied worlds of karate, aikido and kickboxing, and honing his craft in the Finnish military. In 1996, he completed the first ever Krav Maga instructor’s course offered in Finland. Krav Maga, a highly revered method in Israel, has composed the Israeli military’s official combat and self-defence training system for decades.

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Krav Maga classes take place at the Hotel Pyr on Monday and Wednesday from 7pm to 8pm. www.kravmaga.es

Ismo brought Krav Maga to Spain in 1997, training everyone from children to members of the police force, VIP security and military groups. We hope his impressive client list doesn’t daunt you, however; Krav Maga is most definitely not just for ‘tough guys’; in fact, it is an ideal self-defence system for women, children and the disabled.

Krav Maga is not about aggression; on the contrary, its ultimate aim is safety.

Ismo explains: “I teach my students to identify and avoid danger and to cool down tension-filled situations.

The first aim should be to achieve enough distance from an attacker to either flee or attack. Fancy high kicks and acrobatics are fine, yet few people can achieve the necessary physical conditioning and strength to perform them and often, there is not enough distance between a person and their attacker for these moves to be feasible.” Krav Maga has a strong focus on realistic situations, so much so that Ismo teaches all self-defence moves “in three different situations:

standing up, sitting down and on the ground”.

A typical Krav Maga class begins with a warm-up session: Ismo leads clients through a series of running and jumping games, which aim to “bring the fun factor into the class”. Next up are a series of ‘power exercises’ involving jumps, push-ups and exercises which use the body’s own weight in many different ways. “Despite the fact that Krav Maga hardly involves the use of weights, we are constantly training the complete body, from head to toe,” says Ismo. “All muscles are important, since in addition to knowing how to attack, you need to know how to fall, resist a blow and even prevent whiplash in the case of a car accident”.

Flexibility training is also incorporated into the class, varying according to the area of focus. “If we are doing a lot of kicks, we concentrate on the leg muscles; if we are doing ground work, we focus on controlling the body – learning how to turn or even change an attacker’s position if he is sitting on top of you on the floor, for instance”.

The most vital aim during an attack, says Ismo, is to “buy time”. The more time you have, the more distance you can achieve from your aggressor. Of course, sometimes flight is not possible and fighting takes precedence: “If you are with your family and you cannot get away quickly, then you need to finish off the situation right then and there”.

When you begin training with Ismo, you will start off gently, “slowly building up your strength and speed until you get as close to the level of stress you may encounter during a real-life attack”. Ismo also coaches you on how to respond when there is more than one assailant. “We teach people to get their stress level up then cool down quickly so they don’t lose so much Oxygen that their body collapses under the stress”.

Each and every session works on both the tactical and technical demands of self-defence, using the body’s natural movements to optimal effect. “Having a physical condition with personal limits is no reason not to participate.

Everybody needs self-defence,” he says, assuredly.

Ismo shares many anecdotes of pupils who have achieved the selfconfidence and strength they need through Krav Maga, after having suffered violent attacks. “Krav Maga teaches you to never ever give up, because if you do, then your aggressor has the final say in the outcome of the situation. Research has shown that in cases of rape, women who resist and fight against their attacker recover far better than those who are too scared to resist”. His greatest pride is seeing his students evolve from a place of fear to one of strength. “Krav Maga isn’t about being a hero; it’s ultimately about avoiding dangerous situations and stopping the cycle of violence”.

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BOOT CAMP MARBELLA

A Week’s Inspiration that Lasts a Lifetime When Jan Dendauw founded Boot Camp Marbella three years ago, he had one thing in mind: offering an intense yet fun workout experience for clients that would provide quick results but more importantly, the spark most clients needed to embark on a never-ending love affair with health and fitness. Many of Jan’s clients come from the UK – these include entrepreneurs whose health is burdened by too many hours sitting in front of a computer, and even new mums who are keen to recover their pre-pregnancy shape. Often the great divide between ‘fit’ and ‘fat’ is simply a presence or absence of ‘inspiration’, a quality Boot Camp Marbella offers its clients in abundance.

One of the most appealing aspects of Boot Camp Marbella is how much fun it is; the week-long residential camp immerses clients in a myriad of activities, many of which make the most of Marbella’s beautiful weather and spectacular natural getaways like the Istan lake, La Concha mountain or the shores of the Mediterranean.

A typical week can include circuit training on the beach, jogging, hiking, mountain biking

and stand-up paddle surfing. “There’s a bit of gym work involved as well,” says Jan, who trains clients at high-tech gym, New Concept Training, in Monte Paraíso. The gym is fitted with some of the most cutting edge equipment in current use, including XBody Electro Muscle Stimulation equipment. The latter is said to provide the same results in 20 minutes as a one-hour workout, since it involves the use of a special electrode-clad suit which sends out impulses that cause muscles to contract.

Additional indoor pursuits include Pilates, box fit and yoga, all with some of Marbella’s best trainers and instructors. Jan also waxes lyrical about Rob Edmond, celebrity trainer of top rating programmed, Loser, in the UK. Rob trains Biggest Loser, clients and shares awareness about Boot Camp Marbella, with his clients in the UK. Jan is also excited about his new business partner, Lisa Saxon, joining the team. Lisa decided to invest in the operation after being totally taken by its concepts and is keen on helping the company achieve new heights of success.

g Tel: 620 126 351. www.bootcamp-marbella.com

Boot Camp Marbella offers half- and full-week getaways, with clients resting their weary shells at the Senator Spa Hotel. The holiday is allinclusive, so clients can look forward to healthy breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The result is usually a significant amount of weight loss, which tends to be a client’s main aim. “Our clients lose up to 9cm around the waist in just a week, without extreme dieting!” beams Jan, adding, “Because thy don’t starve, their moral is high and they begin to feel like their body is reviving. Boot Camp Marbella differs from the average camp in that way: we don’t shout or push clients too hard and as a result, we have a high percentage of repeat customers”.

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Latin Dance & Tone Classes take place every Wednesday from 9:30am to 10:30am at Princess Studios Tel: 952 813 108. www.princessstudios.com

Shimmyfit classes take place on Tuesdays from 11am to 12pm at Princess Studios, Thursdays from 10:30am to 1:30am at the Hotel Sultan Spa & Gym in Marbella, Fridays from 10:30am to 11:30am at Vivero Chino, near Álora. www.lisamichaela.com

PRINCESS STUDIOS

Are You Ready to Shimmyfit or Move to Latin Grooves?

Ladies across the Coast know that when it comes to enjoying a fantastic dance or fitness class in a friendly environment, few venues are quite as appealing as Princess Studios. Founded by Heidi Fulford almost 10 years ago, it is a true reference point for ladies up for the trendiest fitness sessions, featuring classes such as Pole Dancing, Bikini Body Workouts, Street Dance, Fat Attack and Sexy Aerobics (the latter is a Pussycat Dolls-style session that firms, tones and burns calories like nobody’s business.

Latin Dance & Tone by Kathy Hector: Slave to the Rhythm!

I rushed into the dance hall to meet Kathy Hector, creator of Latin Fitness Camp in the UK, and was not surprised to find her with her headphones on, moving her head to the rhythm of a catchy pop tune. If, like me, you have fallen in love with Latin-based cardio classes like Zumba in the past, but feel choreographically challenged, you will be pleased to know that Kathy took all the difficulty out of the workout but kept all the magic, when it came to creating her new fitness system. “Latin Dance & Tone is about blending modern music with Latin dance moves – Cha Cha, Samba, Tango and Rumba – without using complex choreography,” she explains. As the class begins and she takes me through the first few moves, I am delighted to see how easy it is to keep up with the choreography, and I definitely notice that I am giving my heart a great workout.

In a typical Latin Dance & Tone class, Kathy takes students through ‘blocks’ of choreography,

teaching one step at a time and repeating all moves frequently enough that they are retained in the memory. During our mini-class, she taught me the cha cha, working first on my footwork then incorporating moves with the hands and arms, to get my heart racing and my body moving to the music. After the main routine, there is an intense body part specific toning session that shapes and strengthens your abs, waist, thighs & butt, to give you the body and the confidence to feel proud of.

This class is an active, vibrant one for those who find modern music to be highly motivational; as you complete each block of choreography, concentrating on the moment and the rhythm, time seems to fly and the sensation in your muscles is definitely one of having worked them out thoroughly.

Kathy is a highly inspirational teacher as well, her own lithe yet strong figure and healthy glow a testimony to the power of regular exercise.

Shimmyfit by Lisa Michaela: Grace, Strength and Cardio in One Class We recently tried two classes, both created specifically by the instructors who teach them at Princess. First up was Shimmyfit: a sensual, graceful class led by international bellydance artist, dancer and actress, Lisa Michaela of Moon of Delight Bellydance. The class involves a lively mix of classic belly dance, salsa, tango and jazz dance, combined with ballet toning and stretching. Lisa was incredibly warm and funny as she led me through a few moves, encouraging me to complete movements with grace and even a touch of theatricality – her background in theatre has definitely instilled the importance of self-expression in her teaching style. Lisa likewise places a strong emphasis on correct posture, technique and energy, so that each move is safe and the atmosphere, one of joyful energy.

When asked what makes Shimmyfit so different, Lisa answers: “It was initially developed to train and tone up dancers in an enjoyable way. It proved so popular where I used to work (in the US), that it quickly grew into an exercise class for everyone. It is different in that it incorporates a mix of low-impact aerobic exercises, the sensual, vibrant movements of Egyptian belly dance plus salsa, tango, ballet toning and spot toning exercises, jazz dance, theatricality and lots of shimmies!” The class is taught in English and Spanish and is suitable for ages 14 to 70. e

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THE FOCUS martial arts

Masters of the Coast MARTIAL ARTS AND THE

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.PHOTOGRAPHERMARBELLA.COM

...the art of mastering mind and body

F

rom Kung Fu and Jiu Jitsu to Tai Chi, martial arts are about much more than structured fighting alone.

Many of us have grown up with martial arts – Bruce Lee, Grasshopper and the Karate Kid inspired whole generations to take up judo or karate, and yet there aren’t that many people who can tell the difference between the various martial arts, much less explain the philosophies behind them.

To the uninitiated it’s all about wearing loose-fitting togas and using ancient oriental katas, or choreographed martial movements, to overcome opponents in the ring. Some take up martial arts as a fitness sport, exercise regime, a way to release energy or to develop their fighting skills, while others associate it foremost with the need for self-defence.

While all the above can be perfectly valid, it doesn’t explain the different philosophies and styles of the many martial art forms and their respective strengths, or the distinction between the elements that are primarily outward – focused on sport, exhibition and combat – and those

that are inward and aimed at developing a greater understanding of mind, body and universe.

If it sounds a bit like the Buddhist path to enlightenment then that’s because this is indeed a life journey built on the ancient philosophical teachings of the East that deal with the essence of life, self, the universe we inhabit and our place within it. Reaching this level of understanding cannot be anything less than a lifelong experience of learning through which one comes to master and eventually harmonise mind, body and spirit.

The greatest practitioners of the martial arts, therefore – those that have mastered the physical nature of its outward combat side and have astounding timing and control over their bodies – will also be the ones that have made the greatest progress on the inward spiritual journey to enlightenment and harmony. Some of the leading martial arts experts in this region open the door to a greater understanding of what exactly martial arts are about.

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» COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan » WIKI: Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba in the late 1920s as a system of empty-handed throwing and joint-locking techniques, blending most of its technical structure with the art of the ‘kenjutsu’ or swordsmanship. Although its movements resemble those of a fighting ‘samurai’, Aikido softens the lethal nature of its self-defence and places great importance on the protective techniques of the ‘uke’, the receiver as well.

© Tünde Serbán

József Kapcsándi Aikido

Among the public in general, the different martial arts are hard to keep apart and often blur into one more or less homogenous combat sport. We know that some come from Japan and others from China or Korea, but on the whole they are all regarded as mild variations of the same thing.

“Not so,” says Hungarian-born József Kapcsándi, black belt in Aikido (Aikikai, Hombu, Tokyo). “Though many of us have practised different martial arts or gone from one to another until finding the one that suits us personally, each martial art has a distinct character and philosophy.” József himself is a case in point.

Having started with karate at an early age, he found his fit when he added Aikido as a second discipline. “I became fascinated with it and gradually it took over.

Now I dedicate myself entirely to this one martial art.”

Aikido suits him better because it allows a greater degree of personal interpretation, focusing less on learning prescribed katas and more on realistic combat situations.

“This means that Aikido allows you the freedom to get out of it what you as an individual want.” For József, like many other martial artists, it was initially all about the combat sport, learning how to use physics to harness the aggression and force of an attacker to

your own advantage. “But it all starts and ends with the mind because until the mind is relaxed and centred the muscles will not be supple and responsive enough to do what Aikido requires of them. In that sense it is a lot like Tai Chi, with the right state of mind being at the heart not only of the sport but also of the way in which it can help you become a person in equilibrium with yourself and the world around you.”

The process begins with breathing properly, emptying your mind of intruding thoughts and allowing yourself to enter a more natural state in which mind and body are in sync. In sport this is called ‘being in the zone’, and it is only when you can attain this state that you will really master Aikido. Though it is among the younger martial arts, having evolved out of other Japanese systems, aimed at defending oneself with a minimum of aggression and injury, Aikido draws on a highly evolved philosophy that reflects its Buddhist and Shinto heritage.

“As a defensive martial system it can help you develop the skills to defend yourself against attack, but much more important is the path to personal development that focuses not on outward physical exercise but sees

it merely as one part of the inward, spiritual evolution of a human being.”

If you choose this path it is a way of life that you are entering into, not a hobby. “It becomes a part of your daily life, a learning cycle aimed not at destroying but at creating,” says József. “The martial part gives you the means to defend yourself, but with it comes something that over time develops into wisdom and allows you to escape the box modern life puts you in. It’s a neverending process of evolution that requires even the greatest masters to continue learning.” After all, Aikido does translate as the ‘Path of the Harmonious Life Spirit’.

Hotel Pyr, Puerto Banús. Mushin Dojo, Tel: 722 752 661.

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» COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China » WIKI: Kung Fu incorporates a number of fighting styles that have developed over the centuries in China. The genesis of Chinese martial arts has been attributed to the need for self-defense, hunting techniques and military training in ancient China where hand-to-hand combat and weapons practice become crucial for survival.

Sifu Joe Williams

Kung Fu (Wushu)

Raised in Brixton, Sifu Joe Williams soon learned how to take care of himself. In fact, such was his natural ability to defend himself that he threw a qualified judo instructor at the first time of asking. From that moment on he was hooked, evolving in classic style from a fascination with the martial side of it all to a profound spiritual journey that has seen him become a master of Kung Fu. “Kung Fu, Tai Chi and Chi Gung are all Chinese martial arts, or Wushu. By focusing on controlling the body through breathing, body movements, the clearing of the mind and the concentration of energy you needn’t be particularly big or strong to perform feats not normally deemed possible.”

This includes breaking bones, immobilising or even killing someone with a single blow, while certain masters have also been known to transmit heat,

pain and healing through mere touch. “I know, it sounds a bit farfetched, but the documentation of phenomena such as these reaches back from the present day to ancient Chinese times, and it’s linked to meditative phenomena that enable the highest practitioners to astroplane, levitate or exert kinetic energy on objects.” At a more moderate level it follows the philosophy of mastering mind and body to develop the physical and mental skills needed to defend oneself with the minimum of aggression.

“The martial art was designed as a tool of war, but it is just a part of the overall process. It gives you a disciplined starting point through which you can channel energy and aggression yet it places greater value on meditation and self-cultivation. And yes, these elements are directly linked to Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism, but it isn’t so much

a religion that you embrace as a life philosophy that connects you to the universe through a greater understanding of how it all works.” The latter concerns itself not so much with atoms and molecules as with the balancing act that is evident in everything from natural ecosystems to human dynamics. “If you begin to understand these dynamics you stop fighting them because you start to see how it all fits together. As a result you become less self-absorbed in an outward way and more open to seeing things from the perspective of others. This, I believe, is the true journey of the martial artist, and while sports competition in martial arts is a lot of fun it should never trivialise the real message that lies behind all Kung Fu.” SMS: 678 472 239. sifujoewilliams@yahoo.com

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» COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China » WIKI: T'ai Chi is a Chinese martial art focused internally and practised for both its defence training and its health benefits. It is also typically practised for a variety of other personal reasons such as its hard and soft martial art technique, demonstration competitions, and longevity.

Isabel Rosas Tai Chi

If you’re surprised to find Tai Chi on this list you will be even more amazed to hear that we have our own world champion living and teaching here in Marbella.

Isabel Rosas, who is the founder of the Tai Chi Association of Marbella, has won 3 gold medals at the Beijing International Wushu Tournament in 2012. “I follow the traditionalist Bejing School of Tai Chi, and yes, it does include the slow movements you see practised in the parks and schools of China, but this is a true martial art, not mere aerobics.”

T’ai translates as ‘the superior one’, while Chi means ‘life energy’, reflecting the fact that this discipline is born out of a philosophy drawn from the Law of the Cosmos, as it is known in China. “Everything is made up of two parts, Yin and Yang, light and dark. The one exists by definition of the other, and the interaction of these opposing energies is the characteristic of what we see around us, be it day and night, male and female, good and bad. It is also important to know that each has a little of the other in it, as shown in the classic Ying-Yang diagram that many of us have seen before.”

To understand this is to become in harmony

with oneself and the cosmos around us. Even the movements that are the best-known part of Tai Chi are in harmony with nature and a reflection of its motion. “As a result, we always make rounded movements, creating imaginary circles in the air, and we repeat these until the succession of yin balanced by yang forms becomes one intuitive flow.”

It all begins with breathing, and not just because this calms one down and focuses the mind, but also because it is the ultimate source of our life energy.

“In Tai Chi you learn to breathe all over again, drawing breath from the depth of your stomach, as the centre of energy lies just below the navel. Even breathing is made up of two opposing parts – yin is breathing in oxygen and yang expelling carbon dioxide – and if you do it right you will feel more energised, focused, centred and ultimately, happier. You see, the ultimate purpose of Tai Chi is to reach a state of happiness through harmony with the universe.”

It’s with this kind of preparation that the oftenslow movements of Tai Chi are made. “We practise like this because it provides a way of exercising in a meditative state, but don’t be fooled, the muscles

have memory and if you practise enough you will be surprised how fast you can do the movements if called upon.” Once again the attainment of physical and martial prowess forms part of a journey of spiritual development built out of humility, serenity and peace of mind. “This again translates back into the fight, as even there the main battle is with yourself.

No matter if the opponent is bigger or stronger than you, if you carry the mental strength, balance and lack of fear that Tai Chi teaches, you will be able to use his aggression and overcome him.”

It is this control that is at the heart of Tai Chi, and Isabel has attained an exceptionally high standard to compete in China and be crowned champion there, where she incidentally also fought with ‘holy arms’ known to you and me as long daggers. It just goes to show that the general perceptions of martial arts can be very deceiving, so where many think that Tai Chi is just a group of pensioners doing some light exercises, they couldn’t imagine how it can teach you to harness levels of energy and strength you never knew existed.

Marbella Tai Chi Association www.taichimarbella.com

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» COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Korea » WIKI: Taekwondo was developed by a variety of Korean masters during the 1940s as a combination of pre-existing ancient martial arts designed to develop strength, speed, and survival skills. It combines combat and self-defence techniques with sport and exercise and is known for its emphasis on high kicking and fast hand techniques.

Gyeorugi, a type of sparring, has been an Olympic event since 2000.

Justin Menchen Taekwondo

A passion for martial arts can often begin at an early age and the inspiration a master can instil in his young student can lead to a lifelong interest. Representing the World Taekwondo Federation in recruiting a growing number of Marbella children to this Olympic sport, is American-born Taekwondo black belt, Justin Menchen.

The pleasure he derives from Taekwondo clearly transmits to his classes because the popular coach is hugely in demand.

“I grew up watching Bruce Lee movies, and where I lived in LA there were lots of martial arts studios, so one day I walked into one and had a go. I got a pummelling and didn’t return for a while, but eventually I was drawn back and this time it stuck.” The Korean martial art of taekwondo became his thing, providing a sense of focus away from work and everyday life. “It’s a good stressbuster for adults, but also a great way for kids to learn to exercise and spar in a competitive but respectful and good-humoured way.”

This ethical part of taekwondo – the only martial

art besides judo that features as a sport in the Olympic Games – is one he emphasises as much as the poomsae forms used to practise with. A lot like karate’s kata, they provide a stylised form of fighting that focuses on self-defence but also with an attacking element. “The poomsae are there for a reason, they develop discipline, balance, fitness, coordination and timing, as well as sharp reflexes, mental strength and how to concentrate your strength.”

“The American troops who brought these martial arts to the west after World War II tended to focus mostly on the sport element because the philosophy behind it all didn’t gel so well with modern life, but if you give yourself the time and space you can use taekwondo as a path to spiritual enrichment. This is a choice each individual makes, but in the classes we instil the basic principles of humility and mutual respect that are the building blocks both of the sport and the philosophy.”

Taekwondo offers so-called ‘fight time’ that enables you to get a workout through proper sparring sessions that

include elements of boxing and kick-boxing, but in addition to the protective pads it is a safe sport because you are taught to enter into it with a sportsmanlike attitude.

“The kids shake hands before and after, and in-between they have lots of fun while developing important fitness and motor skills.

Whichever martial art you choose, if it’s the right one for you it could change your life or at the very least be a great way to exercise and expand your physical and mental horizons. At the end of the day it’s not about the belts you win but what you get out of the experience personally.”

Marbella Taekwondo Tel: 666 756 692. www.marbellataekwondo.com

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» COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Brazil » WIKI: Deriving from the ancient Japanese art JiuJitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was formed in the early 20th century and is a martial art, combat sport, and a self-defence system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting.

BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique and taking the fight to the ground.

Carlos Varona

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Born in Rota to an American dad and a Spanish mum, Carlos Varona was a typical wandering teenager until he found his metier in Jiu-Jitsu. “I had been dabbling with different sports and martial arts, mostly as a release of aggression, but got hooked when I discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Originally from India, Jiu-Jitsu evolved in Japan before developing a new variant in Brazil, and that’s the one I’m involved in.”

Teaching classes of men, women and children at the Dynamic Training Centre in Marbella, Carlos imparts not only the combat skills but also the honourable code of conduct that is part and parcel of a sport designed around

self-defence. “Jiu-Jitsu can be pretty combative too, and this comes out in competition, but the practitioner should never be the aggressor. There is a code of respect that should be adhered to all in situations, with the possible exception of when you are fighting to save your life, but even then Jiu-Jitsu teaches you how to protect yourself with minimal fear, anger and force.”

In fact, it is often seen as the ultimate self-defence style as it not only shows you how to use the assailant’s energy against him, but also specialises in turning the table on assailants even when they have you pinned down on the ground. “This is why Jiu-Jitsu is a particularly popular self-defence art with women, because normally once you’re pinned to the ground you think it’s all over. In Jiu-Jitsu we teach you that’s not the case, but to be effective you need to be in command of your emotions, so we focus on mental control, breathing and overcoming fear.”

As more of a true competition and exhibition sport than the other martial arts mentioned so far, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is also a very popular form of exercise and physical development, yet even so it shares many of the classic characteristics aimed at personal growth. “Speaking for myself, the discipline, dedication and above all the respect demanded as part of the sport have made me a better

person, and I see this in a lot of my pupils too. Many of them come with anger problems, and while slugging away allows you to burn off some of that steam you can only really practice this martial art properly if you can channel your energy in a focused way.”

Patience, exercise and internal development make it a beautiful lifestyle, says Carlos, who has seen himself become more relaxed, tolerant and open to other people. “And yes, happier. It certainly impacts your life, gives you focus, confidence and a sense of equilibrium that wasn’t there before. Although I enjoy the sport side of it tremendously, it’s the personal part that’s given me the most. You develop your body through breathing exercises, improving fitness, cardio, balance and strength, only to find that you’re developing your mind and attitude to life in the process. Having control of your mind and body gives you the edge when practicing the martial art, but take it further and it becomes a form of meditation that allows you to separate yourself from your ego, from fears and aggression. The true beauty of Jiu-Jitsu is that it is a journey you can evolve along with for the rest of your life, whether training like we do at the Centre, practising at home or applying its philosophy to your everyday life.”

Dynamic Training Center Marbella Tel: 952 775 021. www.dynamicmarbella.com

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

Ref: AP0472 – Price: 370.000€

Beachside apartment, Puerto Banus, Marbella West

–– Southwest facing apartment with sunny terraces.

–– Unbeatable location in a high standing urbanization.

–– Close to the beach promenade and only 5 minutes walking to Puerto Banus.

Two bedrooms, two bathrooms Built: 125 m2 • Terrace: 25 m2

Ref: VI0377 – Price: 495.000€

Individual villa, Monte Biarritz, San Pedro West

–– South facing villa with private garden and pool.

–– Walking distance to all amenities and even to the beach.

–– Covered and open terraces and private garage.

Three bedrooms, two bathrooms Built: 181 m2 • Plot: 1.019 m2

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Ref: VI0472 – Price: 890.000€

Beautiful villa with sea views, El Madronal, San Pedro West –– This villa is southwest facing with stunning panoramic views.

–– Modern villa located in a gated community with 24 Security.

–– Separate apartment with its own entrance.

Ref: AP0848 – Price: 129.000€

A unique residential concept, San Pedro West, Atalaya

–– Beautiful views of both the mountains and the sea.

–– Close to shopping, golf courses and beaches.

–– High level of service offered to its residents such as 24 hour reception.

Four bedrooms, four bathrooms Built: 450 m2 • Plot: 1.200 m2

Two bedrooms, two bathrooms Built: 90 m2 • Terrace: 15 m2

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Ref: AP0858 – Price: 275.000€

Luxury development, Cartuja de Golf, San Pedro West

–– Nice southwest facing top floor apartment –– Recently reformed in a modern style and is very well presented.

–– Spacious terrace and a roof terrace which is also partially covered.

Two bedrooms, two bathrooms Built: 273 m2 • Terrace: 144 m2

Ref: AP0864 – Price: 95.000€

South facing apartment, El Paraiso, San Pedro West

–– This is a lovely garden apartment.

–– Corner unit in excellent position.

–– South facing overlooking the beautiful garden.

–– Very close to El Paraiso Golf.

Two bedrooms, one bathroom Built: 58 m2 • Terrace: 7 m2

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Menkyo KaiDen-Shihan

» COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan

François Petit

» WIKI: Developed from the indigenous martial arts of the Ryukyu Islands and the ancient Kempo, Karate is a striking art using punching, kicking, knee strikes, elbow strikes and open hand techniques. Today, in many styles it is practiced for selfperfection, cultural reasons, self-defence or just simply as a sport. Karate-do also teaches ethical principles, which can have deeply spiritual significance to its adherents.

Lee Dawson Karate

It may seem like a contradiction that the path to inner peace comes through the mastery of the means to fight and kill, but with the ability to face down attack comes a confidence and serenity that reduces aggression and conflict while enhancing patience and understanding. All the masters interviewed exuded a calm friendliness and attested that they had not needed to raise a hand in anger since they attained a certain level within their martial art.

This much was confirmed by Lee Dawson, a black belt third Dan in Mugendo Karate, and his instructor François Petit, a world-renowned name in martial arts who is among few westerners allowed to carry the Samurai title Menkyo KaiDen-Shihan. The saying ‘When the student is ready the master will appear’ is particularly apt here, as the Menkyo KaiDen-Shihan has recognised something special in Lee. “He has a very high standard, certainly, but even more importantly he has the humility, the intelligence,

soul, dedication and the willingness to learn that are the real ingredients for progression.” He also emphasises that within the philosophy of martial arts the master never ceases to learn and also gains from the instructorstudent relationship. “In the western world we are always chasing a result, but the ancient oriental wisdom sees no end goal, just a constant evolution that is an integral part of life itself.”

Having already reached a very high level within Mugendo Karate, Lee is now preparing to take it another step up with the help of the Menkyo KaiDen-Shihan.

This process exists alongside his own tutoring of local talents, but will naturally feed back into his teaching further down the line. “Athough Mugendo Karate is a relatively modern martial art it is also one of the most advanced because it builds on ancient knowledge and adds to that,” says Lee, who relishes the development of mind and body that he has embarked upon.

NCT Fitness Marbella Tel: 952 866 842. www.nctmarbella.com

Born in France at a time when it was the first country in Europe to open its doors to pure traditional martial arts, François Petit was introduced into this world at a young age, and would ultimately go on to dedicate his life to Japanese martial arts for over six decades and become world champion in bare knuckle karate, 8th Dan in Jiu-Jitsu, 7th Dan in Karate-Do and a renowned fight choreographer whose year s in Hollywood saw him star as the character Sub-Zero in the cult film Mortal Combat.

“My varied background in martial arts was an asset, while having practiced ballet for over ten years gave me a sense of harmony and movement that was particularly helpful when choreographing martial arts on screen.” After seven years in Asia he has made Marbella his home and has taken Lee Dawson under his wing while also continuing his link with Hollywood and choreographing new productions. e

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style

INTERIORS / ARCHITECTURE / ART / DESIGN

Décor buffs will love the beautiful interiors in an outstanding home overlooking the Los Naranjos Golf Course, while those who like to mix style and sport should check out the latest fashions from Adidas.

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THE STYLE decor

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The Marbella villa has always been about style, elegance, comfort and views in a home that brings the outside in and offers a sunny, outdoor lifestyle with a privileged edge. This modern villa offers a new perspective on that theme.

verlooking the undulating greenery of Los Naranjos Golf course, this villa is designed to offer open views, take in the Marbella sunshine and create a modern setting for a refined and comfortable lifestyle. In short, it is a classic Marbella home with a fresh outlook.

In an era dominated by a new design wave, it is fascinating to witness the subtle nuances and interpretations of the modern early 21st century style that is gripping not only Marbella but also other parts of the world. As a new Marbella takes shape around us, these architecturally designed villas show a great deal of individual variety, creating

homes that share a common sense of modernity but draw inspiration from a myriad of sources.

This eye-catching home in one of the most sought-after locations in Nueva AndalucĂ­a is a case in point. Its styling is undeniably modern and in keeping with the new design trend, yet it is also highly distinctive and has a personal feel that makes it hard to mistake for other homes with similar clean, clear lines in crisp white tones. Large panoramic windows, Le Corbusier-inspired nautical references such as chrome and glass terrace railings and large open-plan spaces are here applied in a way that put their own stamp on the property.

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Form and function In a well-designed home form and function should be in balance, as should the ratios of volume and elevation to the surroundings.

Turn into the driveway of the villa and not only are you hit by its elegant architectural styling, but the harmony of proportions creates an immediate sense of occasion and elegance. Not only does it look good, but instinctively it also feels right because the visual flow follows the right geometry. Call it Feng Shui if you will, but it makes you want to see more.

From the impressive black stone driveway you step onto a small forecourt flanked by a protruding wing of the house and a stylish Xerophytic garden detail that mixes the landscaping philosophy of Japan with the plant types of Mexico, and indeed the Mediterranean.

The effect is impressive, blending the garden into the architectural styling of the house before you’ve even stepped through the beautiful wood and chrome door that is the modern equivalent of a grand portal.

Like the exterior treatment, the internal distribution of the villa is both modern and individualistic. The entrance hall provides a very new take on the sweeping stairways of old with an impressive chrome structure that blends aesthetics with functionality. Its brushed steel and grey stone composition floats up to the first floor, forming a design statement that makes light work of efficient distribution between the home’s three floors.

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To the left of this visual focal point is a stylish cloakroom in contemporary style, while on its opposite side you will find a wing comprising a ground floor bedroom suite and a spacious room that can be used as an office, a games or TV room, or a playroom for children. Used in this case as a very comfortable and sleek modern study, it features a minimalist stylised desk with appealing rounded forms finished in white lacquer. More room is given to relaxing spaces, creating the impression that this is more a private zone than a working office. The large white leather sofa by Leolux offers comfort amid sumptuous sophistication, while the twin Leolux leather chairs are a study in industrial design and no doubt a future classic in the Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Le Corbusier tradition of classic designer fauteuils.

Such a classic, a Mies van der Rohe chair in white leather and chrome, can be found in the master bedroom suite, though for the greater part the home is furnished with the Italian refinement of Fendi. This is true of the sweeping brown leather sofa and lacquered tables of the spacious, open-plan living room, which flows on from the hallway and looks straight out to the terrace, pool deck and the views of Los Naranjos and La Quinta beyond.

Its tall, double-height vaulted ceiling creates a sense of light and volume that adds to the sense of comfort and luxury this area exudes. Look up and you see the ambient lighting effects in the ceiling cornices that can be manipulated to create different colour settings and moods, while the fibre optics painstakingly set into the ceiling add a touch of night sky magic when the lights in the magnificent hand-blown Murano glass chandelier are dimmed.

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Modern comfort The visual impact achieved here is matched by a functionality of layout that allows for a stylish yet also comfortable way of life. The open plan brings living room, dining room and kitchen together in the celebrated New York loft style, yet always with views and styles that are unmistakably Marbella.

Slick and modern, the kitchen by Santos features all the top of the range appliances and luxuries you’d want of a modern villa, from a double-sized American refrigerator, built-in espresso machine and plate warmer to an extractor that adjusts to your height (to avoid that awkward head banging while you’re cooking) and a cooking island cum breakfast bar that obviates the need for granite working tops by defying you to scratch or mark it. The high design Fendi barstools whose styling reflects their Swarovski detailing, add a playful touch to this sleek part of the house.

Such modern touches are also reflected in the sunny dining room, which links kitchen and living room as it should do, and overlooks the terrace and views. Follow the steps up and you come to the top floor, which features two complete bedroom suites set in separate wings. Both qualify as potential main bedroom suites, complete with spacious bedroom, dressing room and bathrooms that feature modern minimalist styling, large stepin showers and hydro-massage baths that offer views without being seen. The bedrooms, which feature sumptuous Fendi beds, fine silk bedding and the refined textures of lacquered furniture, leather-framed mirrors and one side clad in modern wallpaper, connect with panoramic terraces from which the views of the garden, pool and the surroundings are impressive.

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Fed by light wells that allow natural light to flood in, the lower floor comprises two spacious bedrooms with modern bathrooms, a complete home cinema, gym and a multi-car garage. As elsewhere, the distribution is spacious and bright, lined with art, fine contemporary furniture pieces and fitted with the solid wooden doors and matt limestone flagstones that mark the dĂŠcor of this home. But, in true Marbella fashion, this is a property where much of the living can be done outdoors, so step onto the terrace and you will find the same limestone flagstones underfoot, albeit in a non-slip variety.

Form and function continue as inside, with the sleek, white geometry of the house accentuated by large windows and the architectural detailing provided by its signature glass panel feature. This styling touch identifies and indeed defines this villa as its whiteness and the fresh design of its terrace, infinity edge swimming pool and open-air Jacuzzi contrast beautifully with the deep greens of Marbella gardens and the deep blues of its sky.

Modern, sophisticated and endowed with many details that give it personal identity, this home offers a successful new take on classic Marbella virtues of refinement, luxury, outdoor living and stunning views – allowing them to evolve with the times and inspire us to new heights. g This property is offered for sale with CALLUM SWAN REALTY Tel: + 34 952 810 608. www.callumswanrealty.com

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Ring by Chopard

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Ring by Accessorize Earrings by Monsoon

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PRODUCTS / BEAUTY / SPA / SCIENCE

Read up on the coolest new perfumes to hit the stands, learn how to prevent

sports injuries and work your way to a buff new bod with an Electro Muscular Stimulation (EMS) workout.

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Perfumes: Hot Scents for Valentines

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Sports Injury Prevention

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Electro Muscular Stimulation

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Adherence: The Importance of Sticking to Your Fitness Plan

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1 – BLACK VETIVER CAFÉ BY JO MALONE This spicy scent bears the appealing aroma of coffee, as well as fresh spices, woody notes and an aromatic base. i www.jomalone.com 2 BOSS JOUR POUR FEMME BY HUGO BOSS The elegance of white flowers pervades this scent, whose leather and smoky tones make it a great choice for a woman who likes to stay on the cutting edge. i www.theperfumeshop.co.uk 3 – WOOD MYSTIQUE BY ESTÉE LAUDER Lovers of woody scents will find their perfect match in this new creation by Estée Lauder. Its main notes include oud, rose, wood, sweet, floral and white floral. i www.esteelauder.com 4 – FÉMINITÉ DU BOIS BY SERGE LUTENS Again for lovers of the woody family. This scent is one of the most critically acclaimed woody/ warm spicy scents and it is no surprise that its creator is none other than Serge Lutens, famed for reinterpreting classic scents. i www.sergelutens.com

5 – VIVA LA JUICY NOIR BY JUICY COUTURE This fragrance has the perfect blend of citric appeal and sweet sensuality. It has a unique note for sweet tooths as well: caramel! i www.theperfumeshop.co.uk 6 – HONEY BY MARC JACOBS Those who crave sweet scents will love indulging in this sugary scent.

The fragrance opens with a white floral and fruity accord, soon revealing sweet and citrus middle notes and eventually settling into an irresistible honey base. i www.marcjacobs.com 7 – CH EAU DE PARFUM SUBLIME

BY CAROLINA HERRERA This scent contains the sweetness of flowers, the joie de vivre of citrus and the sensuality of patchouli, with a fruity/powdery base adding a touch of maturity to the blend. i www.carolinaherrera.com 8 – CHLOÉ ROSES BY CHLOÉ This heavenly rose scent is given a youthful sparkle thanks to citrus, musky, amber, floral and fresh spicy accords. i www.chloe.com

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HEALTH

S

erious athletes need to learn about injuries and risks which are specific to the sport they are practicing, yet trainers and coaches also need to identify individuals who may be prone to injuries, create personalised training sessions and devise rehabilitation programmes to minimise risk. Integrated injury prevention also depends on the concerted efforts of researchers, physicians, sports organisations and government authorities, who need to work together to create efficient rules which promote safe play and establish the correct protective equipment for each sport. As a general rule, athletes should follow these tips for an injury-free sporting experience:

ADVICE

Z HAVE A PRE-SEASON MEDICAL SCREENING If you are a professional or semipro athlete, a pre-season visit to a sports doctor is key. They can screen you for conditions such as cartilage problems, torn muscles and ligaments, and conduct any necessary urine and blood tests. Many fi t individuals are surprised to learn that their red blood cell count is low (indicating that they need iron supplementation), or that they are harbouring an infection which does not necessarily present

symptoms. Athletes need to be more proactive than members of the general population as far as prevention is concerned, simply because they need to keep their bodes in perfect condition for upcoming competitions.

Z WARM UP CORRECTLY Begin your training session by performing the required stretches for the muscle groups you will be using. Begin cardiovascular workouts with a fast walk or light jog for around 10 minutes.

Z DON’T OVERDO IT Injuries are classed as acute (i.e. caused by an isolated traumatic event such as a fall or twist) or ‘overuse’. Overuse injuries are those which subtly occur over a long period of time. When the tendons, muscles, joints and bones are subjected to continual trauma, painful conditions can ensue. These include shin splints, tennis elbow, knee pain, swimmer’s shoulder and Achilles tendonitis. Signs of overuse include the inability to place weight on one part of the body (such as the ankle or foot), favouring one side of the body (e.g. limping), suffering from headaches, muscle stiffness or soreness or lightheadedness and suffering from the sensation that one cannot feel one’s fingers or toes. If any of these occur, make sure to inform your coach and see a doctor specialised in sports medicine.

Z PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST THE RISKS INVOLVED IN YOUR SPORT Cyclists are particularly prone to knee pain, head injuries, neck and back pain, wrist, forearm and foot numbness or pain, and even urogenital issues. Tennis players, meanwhile, tend to suffer from tennis elbow, shoulder injuries, stress fractures, etc. It is vital to research on sports specific injuries so you can work alongside your trainer or coach on a strategy that will keep these issues at bay. Knee problems, for instance, can be addressed through stretching and strengthening of supporting muscles (e.g. squats, leg presses, etc.); in sports like dance, meanwhile, twisting movements should be discouraged since they can lead to dislocation of the kneecap.

Keeping

SPORTS INJURIES WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Z INCLUDE STRENGTH EXERCISES IN YOUR WEEKLY WORKOUT PLAN Keeping muscles in tip-top condition is vital to maintain the integrity of surrounding muscles, tendons, cartilage and bone. Even if you are not a professional athlete, cardiovascular exercise is insufficient if you are to ensure the growth or maintenance of muscles mass while you are losing body fat.

Z INVEST IN THE RIGHT GEAR FOR YOUR SPORT High-impact sports require a whole different type of shoe to lowimpact or cross-training sports. Before going all out on a pretty pair of Nikes or Adidas, do the research on the best fit for your specific injury prevention goals.

Z GET FIT BEFORE YOU START A NEW SPORT When a sport is too intense or challenging, we often give up altogether on it. When it comes to consistency in sport, slowly but surely is the way to go. Never expect a sport to get you into shape; commence it when your body already has a fighting chance to stay injury-free.

Z SEEK HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT Don’t ignore nagging pain or discomfort. See your doctor if you experience severe pain, swelling or numbness, if an old injury resurfaces, if your joints feel unstable or you are unable to put weight on a particular area of your body. e

Studie showns have that preven t i n g injurie sports whenes is possible prong ver a mult , e i taken d approach i to the issue. s

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HEALTH

EMS TRAINING WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.PHOTOGRAPHERMARBELLA.COM

Get Your Body in Shape in Just 20 Minutes!

ADVICE

EMS: THE SYSTEM Personal trainers the world over often say that if there is one complaint they hear again and again, it is that people “don’t have enough time” to go to the gym. It may sound like a banal excuse, but if you really think about it, that supposed 45-minute workout at the gym can turn into a two-hour odyssey, between driving to and from the training session, having a shower and grooming yourself back to professional perfection and making it back to work on time. Parents have an additional burden on their hands, in that children often need help with homework and after-school activities.

Can you really be a soccer mum/dad, full-time worker and fitness fanatic? Technically yes, but in reality, probably not.

If time is of the essence, Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) Training may be just what the doctor ordered. The new system involves the use of a special suit containing electrodes. The latter cause specific muscles to contract while you are training, so that the benefits of particular exercises are considerably increased. EMS is used for more than just getting you into tip-top shape: it is also used as a preventive tool and for rehabilitation purposes, and is already being touted as the training system for the 21st century. Some of the top benefits of EMS include: Z LOWERING BODY FAT: The problem with merely dieting to lessen fat levels is that often, valuable muscle is lost in the process. EMS will give you a tough cardiovascular workout while helping you tone or build muscle.

Z MUSCLE BUILDING: EMS works by targeting electrodes at specific muscle groups. Every contraction is similar to the natural movement of muscles, thereby encouraging natural muscle growth.

Z JOINT RELIEF: Since the electrodes send

impulses directly to muscles, no strain is placed in the joints, unlike the case with traditional weights.

Z SELECTIVE MUSCLE WORKOUTS: Since the electrodes can be programmed to send impulses to specific muscles or muscle groups, it is far easier to work on weak points, such as weak calves or back muscles. Indeed, one of the strongest reasons for the popularity of EMS is its ability to strengthen the back, which can cause significant pain and even lead to poor posture when some areas are weak.

Z REDUCING CELLULITE: EMS can be used to promote improved circulation in the arteries, veins and lymphatic system, thereby leading to the elimination of toxins and lessening the appearance of unsightly cellulite.

Z FIRMER SKIN: EMS promotes optimal circulation to muscles and connective tissues, thereby leading to tauter, younger looking skin.

Z STRONGER BONES: Stronger muscles mean that bones have greater support. Regular EMS sessions can therefore keeps bone-related diseases like osteoporosis at bay.

WHAT IS A TYPICAL EMS SESSION LIKE? During a typical session, you will be asked by a trainer to don a special suit containing electrodes.

The trainer will then select a specific programme, focusing on one or more areas, which include body building, target muscle building, general fitness, pain relief/rehabilitation, fat loss, etc. You will then be guided through a specific series of movements to further challenge your muscles.

Your trainer may add different tools to make the workout more challenging, including dumbbells, rubber bands, gym balls, TRX ropes and more.

HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO GO? XBody, makers of one of the world’s most renowned EMS systems, claims that just two sessions a week

lasting 20 minutes each will greatly enable you to fulfill your weight loss, muscle gain or fitness goals. However, if you have more than a few kilos to lose, a daily cardiovascular workout may be indicated.

WHERE CAN I DO IT? We recommend two local gyms which utilise the very best in EMS equipment: Look Your Best in Puerto Banús, and the NCT Gym in Marbella.

Both gyms offer reduced prices if you prefer to work out with a partner and Look Your Best offers special vouchers for five or ten sessions at attractive prices. Look Your Best also has a special machine, which reads your body fat, muscle levels and more, in just 30 seconds. This is an ideal way to receive real, measurable results of your progress on a periodic basis. g NCT FIT: Camino de Camoján s/n, Urb. Monteparaíso Golf, Marbella.

Tel: 952 866 843/620 126 351. www.nctmarbella.com LOOK YOUR BEST: Edificio III, Marina Banús, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 951 134 990. www.lookyourbest.es

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spa

ADVICE

HEALTH

The Healthier You

ADHERENCE

WORDS NEAL TURNER OF MARBELLA PERSONAL TRAINERS

Making positive change in your life is something to be celebrated. It is exciting. First things first. I have never made a New Year’s resolution – Why? Well, why wait? Why waste the most precious commodity in life – time? Why give something a grand unveiling date, why make it more than it needs to be, why not ‘just do it’? People of all ages and backgrounds decide to make a change for various reasons, including health, necessity, rehabilitation, sports specific, general fitness, profession requirement… the list goes on, regardless of their fitness level.

SO HOW DO YOU DO IT? ADHERENCE

START SIMPLY

Adherence is the first step, middle step, last step, every step.

As a trainer of 15 years, I can tell you it is all about adherence, whatever the level of ability.

I never like to knock enthusiasm and who am I to point out the statistical success rate of people who resolve to not consume sugar for three months, or carbohydrates until after their holiday in 12 weeks’ time?

These are all extreme statements and goals requiring extreme discipline. They only stand a chance of success with plenty of of guidance, support and knowledge. I’ve helped people do it; it takes time, planning and dedication.

The key is to pursue ‘The Five P’s’ within your allocated time: ‘Proper planning prevents poor performance’.

Write down your commitments; list what you have to accomplish and what you want to.

Be realistic, look at the plan and be honest with yourself. Without putting yourself under unnecessary pressure, can you maintain your plan?

Here is an example of a weekly plan from a recent client of mine, a successful company owner, late 40s, heavy drinker, high blood pressure, inactive, approximately 20kg over weight and with elevated stress levels.

MONDAY: 6am up, 30 minute dog walk, porridge breakfast, work 8am until 6pm.

TUESDAY: 6am up, 30 minute dog walk followed by 30 minutes beginners Yoga DVD. Work 8am6pm. Client entertainment.

WEDNESDAY: 6am up, 30 minute dog walk,

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porridge breakfast, work 8am–6pm, 7-8pm personal training session at home.

THURSDAY: 6am up, breakfast, work 8-6pm, 7-8pm brisk walk along playa.

FRIDAY: 6am up, 30 minutes walk followed by 30 minutes beginners Yoga DVD, breakfast, work 8-6pm. Dinner out with family.

SATURDAY: 7am up, 30 minute dog walk, personal training session at home, breakfast.

SUNDAY: 7am up, 30 minute dog walk, before golf game – warm up and stretches.

OVERALL WEEKLY GOALS: Some form of activity every day. Eat four to five small meals per day, two litres of water per day.

In his first week he achieved 90 per cent of this plan. That’s 90 per cent better than the week before.

The AM exercise has a huge effect in your day, one of the biggest being the feel-good factor.

Breakfast is a must. Get up and exercise or get up and eat. One or the other – you choose.

You either do 30-60 minutes of light walking type exercise or you eat a healthy breakfast; both will kickstart the metabolism.

From this example week you can see that the plan is varied, applicable and achievable by the client. The most important muscle to start with in the body is the heart. Make sure you are safe and stay within your limits. When exercising, do not take risks – if you are unsure, seek professional advice. It is the first thing we check with all clients no matter the age, ability and fitness level.

A worthwhile tip: if you can exercise in the morning, it’s done. This stops outside contributing factors which can arise during the day from affecting your plan.

What to eat, how to eat, etc.? Really you already know the basics if you’re honest with yourself. As you maintain/adhere to your exercise routine, you will feel the benefits and want to eat better and so will your body demand it.

Alongside your plan, keep account of what you actually do. I always keep a track of my week purely because it works. It is accountability. There is no point wasting energy being annoyed you haven’t lost weight because you haven’t eaten well or haven’t exercised. If you keep account you can see clearly what works for you and what doesn’t.

So back to the beginning, what can you do and maintain, adhere to? Know yourself, achieve your goals, be honest.

If your main motivation for a meal is the fact that you are hungry/empty then it is likely you will eat until you are fulfilled, often over consuming.

Any chocolate or biscuits in my house? No! If it is not here I cannot eat it.

Choice again… Know yourself.

Try new activities. We are spoilt for choice in this area. e

g MARBELLA PERSONAL TRAINERS: Tel: 628 557 348. marbellapersonaltrainers@gmail.com 1/28/14 12:44 PM

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thepro NEWS /ENTERPRISE / LOCAL BUSINESS /

PROFILES / FINANCE / LAW

Magna Palace Hotel to be Built in 2014 Magna Hotels & Resorts is proud to announce its recent acquisition of the Hotel Don Miguel in Marbella. The renowned hotel chain will be building the new Magna Palace Hotel in the second trimester of 2014, with the help of a talented team of architects, designers and engineers. The aim is to raise the bar in so far as luxury hotel stays on the Coast are concerned. g www.magnahotelsandresorts.com

The Lecheritas are Back with Charli & Clo! Three BenalmĂĄdena schoolgirls, Franciska from Denmark, Dominique from England and Angelina from Lithuania, recently surprised lovers of dance music with a single called Take Me to Marbella, which garnered over 290,000 views on YouTube.

The good news is that the girls, alongside Charli & Clo, are back, with a new record called Spanish Boy. The video for the new track was uploaded on YouTube just before Christmas and has already been seen by over 170.000 people. The song carries a football vibe and with this summer’s World Cup tournament coming up, this could easily take the young girl group even further.

The track will be available to download soon, as the girls are currently in negotiations with a major record label. g For further information, www.

facebook.com/thelecheritas

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Carrefour Opens in Mijas Carrefour is one of Spain’s best loved supermarket chains, largely because of its impressive size, the quantity of goods offered and the wide variety of its departments (food, toys, appliances, etc.). Now, those living in Mijas definitely have something to smile about: the launch of the new Carrefour Mijas hypermarket, featuring a myriad of items at a reasonable price. g Avda. de

los Lirios s/n, Las Lagunas, Mijas. www.carrefour.es

Les Roches Marbella Graduation Ceremony Some 40 students recently graduated in International Hotel Administration, while 53 others received Postgraduate Diplomas at Les Roches, one of the leading schools in international hotel management and administration. Over 86 per cent of the school’s graduates have forged excellent careers in the hotel sector, honing their skills in over 54 countries. The school is also a melting pot of cultures with students hailing 28 different countries. g www.lesroches.es

Arboretum Tree Planting Event a Huge Success Around 500 people gathered recently at Arboretum Marbella to plant trees as part of an effort to create a people’s forest just behind Marbella’s bus station. Some 4,000 trees were planted in one day and participants enjoyed music, activities for kids, a puppet show and a workshop. Additionally, everyone went home with a seed to plant for next year. Founder of Arboretum Marbella, Alejandro Orioli, commented: “It’s beautiful to see so many people working together, building new relationships and strengthening the community by literally putting down roots!” Arboretum Marbella is a non-profit group which relies totally on donations, sponsors and members. Membership is from just €5 per month and the charity offers the option to give the gift of a tree.

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Out of this world at BSM Spacemen, Darth Vader and aliens. These are just a few of the colourful creatures from outer space who visited the British School of Marbella (BSM) on Space Wow Day. The event, designed to get kids excited about their new topic, saw Year Two pupils dress up as their favourite extra terrestrials and create their own aliens from felt. Children also made their own solar system using relative sizes between model planets – i.e. it was ten steps from the Sun to Mercury, but 281 between Uranus and Neptune.

g www.bsm.org.es

Design Studio 88 Design Studio 88 was founded by Lidia Rodriguez Lewis in the summer of 2013. After graduating from graphic design at the IED in Madrid, Lidia headed back to Bristol and gained invaluable experience in various design agencies across the city. Now working both in Bristol (UK) and Marbella (Spain), she decided to follow her dreams and combine her passion for design with her love for both countries. Studio 88, which offers branding, web design, print, packaging, social media and photography services, aims to offer value for money, with an honest and friendly service - always going the extra mile!

g Tel: 668 578 202. www.designstudio88.com

Cajamar Supports Butterfly Children and Their Families Directors of Cajamar in Málaga have presented the Butterfly Children charity with a donation of €1.500 Euros, which will be dedicated to the programme Con Alas para Volar (With Wings to Fly), through which the charity provides medical, psychological and social support to those suffering Epidermolysis Bullosa (Butterfly Skin) and their families. g www.debra.es

Aloha College Students Sign Up for Orienteering Competition

Busy Days for Cudeca

Aloha College students recently took part in a fun yet challenging orienteering competition, organised by the Marbella Town Hall. The aim was to sharpen the kids’ map-reading skills. The pupils did the school proud, with the ‘Infantiles’ group winning second place and the ‘Alevines’ and ‘Benjamines’ taking home fourth place.

Aloha College is also pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs Elizabeth Batchelor to the new post of Principal at the college.

Headmistress of the Primary School from 1999, Mrs Batchelor took charge of the Secondary School in 2009. Her extensive experience and knowledge of all the Key Stages from Foundation to Sixth Form means she can continue to work alongside the school’s Managers, Mrs Kathryn Salmon and Mr Victor Ranea, so the school can move forward to its next phase. Mr Tim Webb, formerly Head of KS4, has joined the Management team as Acting Head of Secondary.

Cancer hospice, Cudeca, has been busy raising funds, with help from friends like the Naturabril Amigos del Senderismo Group of Benalmádena, who organised a charity hike in the mountains of Calamorro which lasted a gruelling three hours! Elsewhere, maverick, Kathleen Durran, sky dived to raise funds for the hospice, which is pleased to announce that it is opening a new charity shop in Coín! Cudeca is currently seeking volunteers to help out at the Day Care Unit and to transport patients.

g www.aloha-college.com

g www.cudeca.org

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Blacktower Financial Management Presents Marbella Office Blacktower Financial Management (International) Ltd is pleased to introduce readers to their rapidly expanding, vibrant Marbella office. Led by Director Ally Kerr, the team consists of Jamie Synan (IFA), Anita Pembery (Regional Administrator), Tim Govaerts (Area Manager), Richard Black (IFA), Richard Mills (IFA), Melanie Godfrey (Co-Ordinator), Chris Pickering (IFA), Ally Kerr (Director) and Patrick Macdonald (IFA). The dynamic Marbella team has over 100 years of financial expertise between them and are ably supported

by Anita and Melanie. Specialising in Tailored Investments, Retirement Planning, Financial Planning and Inheritance Tax Solutions, Blacktower can make your money work for you. g Tel: 952 816 443. info@blacktowerfm.com.

JiveSpain’s PartY with a Difference!

JiveSpain recently held a fun party in which men had to dress as women and vice-versa! The aim was to celebrate the end of last year with a bang and plenty of dancing and the objective was certainly achieved, as can be gleaned from the fun photo. A host of awards were given, including one for Best Man Dressed As a Lady, Won by Doug Moodie. If you’d like to give dancing a go, you should know that JiveSpain has all sorts of dancing events, for beginners and more advanced dancers alike.

g For information on classes and events, call Colin on Tel: 635 717 211. www.JiveSpain.com ©Rosalind Scott Gibb

Unique Disposable Contact Lenses in the World at Specsavers Specsavers is now stocking revolutionary new contact lenses. Made by Easyvision Magic, the lenses are presented in a compact blister pack (which reduces the risk of contamination) and are extremely fine and easy to use. The lenses are made of HEMA-GMA, a material which offers greater humidity retention and better angulation. Specsavers is likewise pleased to announce that it recently launched a campaign to collect 3,000 pairs of unwanted glasses to give to the Lions Club for distribution to those in need. Some 4,436 pairs of glasses were collected during the three-month campaign. g For further information, www.specsavers.es 80 / FEBRUARY 2014 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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Cabopino Holistic Centre: Where Wellness, Not Profit, is Key Cabopino Holistic Centre offers something you will probably find surprising: a myriad of holistic therapies, classes, workshops and courses, at highly affordable prices. The Centre is a non-profit organisation run by Marleen Gosselin, who wishes to share the wonderful experience of holistic treatments and revitalisation techniques, at a minimal cost. The wide range of therapies include acupuncture, aromatherapy, Bach flower therapy, Reiki, kinesiology, magnet therapy, naturopathy and much more, while classes and workshops are offered on Chi gong and yoga, aromatherapy, chakras, Tibetan bowls, etc.

g Call Marleen for details on Tel: 650 460 664 or check out the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/cabopinoholistic.

Kiwoko Pet Shop Opens at Parque Miramar Popular shopping area, Parque Miramar, is now home to the 40th store owned by pet shop chain, Kiwoko.

During the launch, the first 40 clients who arrived with their dogs received free ‘clothing’ for their pets, leading to a proliferation of fashionable pooches strutting their stuff on the Miramar ‘catwalk’. The shop, which is right next door to popular kids store, Kiabi, stocks various species of fish, exotic birds, small animals and a terrarium. g www.kiwoko.com

4 Paws Adoptions Raises over €7.000 for Needy Animals Animal charity, 4 Paws Adoptions, recently demonstrated the power that goodwill and hard work can achieve; their recent New Years Day Sponsored Swim raised a whopping €7.044 euros for 4 Paws Adoptions, a small charity based in Fuengirola/Mijas which gives dogs shelter from ‘perreras’. Over 320 people took part in a raffle and auction, with everyone enjoying a great barbeque afterwards. The charity is currently seeking bedding, towels, cleaning products, etc. g For further information, Tel: 609 572 407. www.4pawsadoptions.com

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Lions European Golf Tournament and Lions Nations Cup 2014 Over 100 golfers will be taking part in the first Lions European Golf Tournament and Lions Nations Cup 2014, from March 25 to 29. Selected golf courses including the Alcaidesa links course, the Atalaya Old Course and the Marbella Club Resort, will offer a unique experience for the participants. A welcome dinner, sightseeing, daily entertainment programs, shows and a closing gala and prize-giving ceremony will make for an exciting week. g For further information, Tel: 630 794 369. www.lionsgolf.info.

Joan Davies Book Signing On Thursday 5th December 2013, the long-held wish of one of the pioneers of foreign media on the Costa del Sol became a reality. Joan Davies, who with her husband Gerry, co-created SUR in English newspaper with Prensa Malagueña, finally launched her memoirs. In a special homage to a woman whose bright idea sparked a generation of free publications servicing the needs of the expatriate community, the Costa Press Club held a book signing, at which Joan (84) penned messages to colleagues in her autobiography, Joan Davies, Memories, Musings & More.

g To order the book, Tel: 607 627 161/ mylife@iwriteyourstory.com

ETC Contributes to Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund Europa Trust Company Limited (ETC) supported the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund as their charity of choice for the year 2013. The start of the New Year saw the company consolidate all its contribution to the Fund, with individual donations made by staff at the company. Kathi Scott, the Executive Director of Nelson Mandela Children's Fund (UK) already expressed her appreciation for the commitment and efforts from everyone at Europa Trust Company Limited. She explained that the contribution would assist with the building of a special children’s hospital, which will be dedicated to children’s health and recovery. Anyone wishing to contribute can do so by visiting the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund online at www.mandela-children.org.uk

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Jean-Marc Poli Heralds New Era for Kempinski Hotel BahĂ­a Estepona The Kempinski Hotel BahĂ­a Estepona recently welcomed members of the press, friends and dignitaries to a lively cocktail, whose purpose was to meet and greet with Jean-Marc Poli, its new General Director and to say a heartfelt goodbye to outgoing Director, Rudiger Hollweg.

Poli, who is of French-Italian descent, was born in Dakar, Senegal. After graduating from an International Hostelery School in Switzerland, he commenced a colourful career in different hotels across Europe. In 1990, he headed for Asia, holding important positions in hotels chains like the Hilton Group, in an array of countries which included Korea, China and Japan. Prior to accepting this exciting new challenge with the Kempinski Group, Poli was General Director of the Intercontinental Hotel in Okinawa. Hollweg, meanwhile, is looking forward to his new Kempinski posting in Southern China. g www.Kempinski.com/Marbella

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THE PRO business

Design, Development and Construction of Turnkey Contemporary Designer Villas on the Costa del Sol

Iddomus THE FOCUS business

About Iddomus Iddomus was established in Marbella one year ago,

by Civil and Industrial Electromechanical Engineer, Gert Cleymans. His financial partner, a former client, had given Gert a call after one too many setbacks in the construction of his villa. Gert finished his partner’s home, and both chanced upon the idea of establishing a unique business on the Costa del Sol, offering clients a top quality turnkey service that would make the process of building their perfect home a far more pleasurable experience.

Every Step of the Way The first phase of home construction is finding the right plot – Iddomus takes this task off your hands from the word go, unless you already have a plot in mind, in which case the project can be designed around it. The firm carries out all geotechnical and topographical studies, designs the villa, presents you with a choice of finishes, develops plans and takes charge of all bureaucratic matters. The Iddomus team likewise carries out all the building work, fitting the home with utility connections and all the tiny details expressed by the client, with whom the firm maintains close contact.

No Pre-Payment Perhaps one of the qualities that makes Iddomus most stand out is its financial and guarantee structure. Every phase of the construction is audited and certified by an independent inspection entity (OCT). Only after the latter issues a certificate

for the finished, certified part of the project is the client billed.

Iddomus and Sismo: A First Rate Building System Iddomus relies on the Belgian modular concrete building system, SISMO, whose modules are made using a 3D galvanised steel wire lattice filled with concrete, which insulates the entire home. SISMO allows for an infinite variety of structures, including curved walls; the modules can be made to the exact specifications of the architect through a speedy computerised system. The modules basically comprise a monolithic structure which is ideal in areas with seismic activity. Maximum stability, insulation and creativity are ensured.

Iddomus’ Building Specifications report is likewise impressive, since it makes patent the immense quality of the process and materials employed in construction and finishes. All interior woodwork, for instance, is made by hand, including doors and built-in closets; some clients choose to use recycled wood to bestow the house with a decidedly antique touch. Sliding doors, meanwhile, are made with the prestigious Scrigno systems and clients will marvel at the wide range of flooring and tiling materials they can choose from, including natural stone, Mortex conrete surfaces, modern tiles, old wood, bejmat and zellige. Iddomus likewise makes it easy to create a cosy ambience in every room with the Daikin Altherma climate control system, which combines air-conditioning, under-floor heating and sanitary hot

Words Marisa cutillas Photography Gary edwards

Most of us would agree that if we had a million or two euros to spend on a home, there would be nothing better than building it from the ground up – with all the features, fittings and details conjured up by the word ‘home’. Yet the process of finding the right plot, a reliable construction company, and world class materials, can often turn what should be a creative experience into a headache, with all the accompanying starts and stops, lack of guarantees and failed deadlines. Belgian-owned company, Iddomus, is set to change all that, offering a fully comprehensive, personalised design, development and construction service of bespoke turnkey villas. Iddomus (which stands for ‘Id’ – Innovation – and ‘domus’ – home) specialises in modern contemporary homes built to the highest quality and with the maximum guarantees possible.

water. Domotics, as you might imagine, are optional.

Iddomus: An Added Value Brand Every Iddomus house is signed and issued with a serial number – a kind of ‘seal of guarantee’ prospective home owners are able to associate with the very highest guarantee of quality and safety. The serial number is registered in the firms database with all the specifications pertaining to the project, so that current and future owners can access specific information such as where to access more of the same materials, or the name and number of the company which last maintained the climate control system, etc. The idea is to offer continuity and optimal maintenance for all the years you are living in your home.

Projects In addition to personalising your project, Iddomus currently has several plots, already with designed projects in a pre-execution stage. These are particularly interesting for clients wishing to avail of Iddomus’ design, quality and guarantees within a shorter space of time. One plot is located in Valtocado, Mijas and two others are in Elviria. The firm also recently rebuilt a home in Benalmádena, converting a once rustic home into a contemporary haven of space and light.

g Edif. Casablanca, Oficina 5, Marbella.

Tel: 952 924 605. www.iddomus.com

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THE PRO business

ASSETS T he following assets qualify as foreign assets,

which must be included in the new Tax Return: Z Bank accounts.

Z Titles representing debts of any kind such as bonds, public debt, etc.

Z Life and disability insurance and lifetime or temporary annuities.

Z Immovable properties, irrespectively if they are leasehold or freehold.

Z Any title representing the equity of companies, including shares, quotas, etc.

Any right of any type of investment assets mentioned above.

There is an exception when the balance at the end of the year and the average balance in the fourth quarter are both below €50.000. There are also some exceptions for traders when keeping their accounts meeting the Spanish bookkeeping obligations.

The ‘720 return’ must be filed by March 31, 2014 and it is related to the balances at the end of the year 2013.

PENALTIES A new specific tax regime has been created applying to taxpayers who fail to file this tax return on time. There are two kinds of penalties: Z Formal penalties, with a minimum of €10.000 per asset non-declared.

Z Penalties based on the unpaid taxes, which is 150 per cent of this amount.

The mechanism is the following: When the tax authorities are aware of an asset that was not included in this tax return, it is deemed to have been obtained during the last year as per the statute of limitations, which is 4 years in Spain. As an example, if in November 2013 the tax authorities are aware of a bank account of €80.000, it is deemed to have been generated in 2009, under the statute of limitations.

Following with this example, the full value of the asset, €80.000 is added to the rest of the income of the year. As the tax rate is higher when the income is higher, it is probable that the taxpayer will be assessed at the highest rate, which was 43 per cent in 2009, but in 2013 is 56 per cent in Catalonia or Andalucía.

After applying the tax rate to the ‘hidden asset’, e.g. 43 per cent in 2009, the outstanding tax for an asset of €80,000.00 would be: Z Income tax: 43% € 34.400 Z Penalty: 150% €51.600 Z ‘Formal penalty’: €10.000 Z Late payment interest: approx. €7.453,33

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on ti la is g e L x a T h is n a p S e Mor WORDS SIMON HOPKINS

Know the Facts!

Last year saw the introduction of a brand new tax return known as ‘Modelo 720’, to be completed by all taxpayers resident in Spain with assets overseas, with some serious penalties for individuals not providing such information.

Z TOTAL: €103.453,33 Also some exceptions are applicable and only the ‘formal’ penalties are payable when the taxpayer is able to show that the assets were acquired either (i) with income included in former tax returns or (ii) when resident in other jurisdictions for tax purposes.

CRIMINAL OFFENCE When the tax evasion is above €120.000 it could be considered as a criminal offence and there are additional fines that could end up with the taxpayer in prison.

A new type of criminal offence is expected to be created when the unpaid tax is above €600.000 – the statute of limitations in these situations is 10 years instead of the current five-year period. These offences may end with the tax offender going to prison

for a period of up to six years, instead of the current two-year period.

CURRENT SITUATION There a number of stories at the moment of expatriate Spanish residents being targeted, as much of the focus has been on the local communities in Sotogrande and Marbella, to list but a few. The key to ensuring you have all your affairs in order and are fully compliant with all new legislation is to speak to a specialist International Tax Advisor.

Don’t forget, your next Modelo 720 must be filed by March 31, 2014. In the event of having failed to file the 2012 return in April 2013, we strongly advise the taxpayer to seek expert advice regarding her/his personal situation and to check the potential liabilities they may incur.

Depending on the tax situation of the taxpayer when the assets located abroad were acquired, the liability could be insignificant.

NEW BANK OF SPAIN INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS In 2013 a new form to be presented to the Bank of Spain was introduced: the ETE. This form includes information relating to investments located overseas and it is mandatory when the total amount held abroad is over one million euros. The first form, corresponding to 2013, had to be filed by January 20, 2014. g Simon Hopkins is a director of Totus Tax, an international wealth and tax management group with over 20,000 clients worldwide.

g Contact the Spanish office on Tel: 952 931 462 or the Gibraltar office on Tel: +350 200 64966. www.totus.com 1/24/14 1:50 PM

Taxing Times Ahead?

As you may be aware Spanish expats will have to declare all their world-wide assets to the Hacienda including: Properties in other countries Bank accounts outside of Spain All investment products whether in your name or company name Failure to declare any amount worth more than â‚Ź50,000 in any single asset class, could result in a tax and fine equal to up to 150% of the tax due on the undeclared non-Spanish assets.

Will these changes affect you? If so talk to us in confidence!

Totus is an international multi-disciplined tax and wealth management group. We have qualified advisors on all the major Costas supported by chartered tax advisors specialising in crossborder tax matters.

You only have until the 31st March 2014 so don’t delay.

Call us in Gibraltar +350 200 64966 or Spain +34 952 931462 or email us at: spain@totus.com

totus.com Totus Tax LLP 50 Farringdon Road London EC1M 3HE UK Registered office no. OC359916 Totus Consulting is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission (Gibraltar) license no. FSC11177

THE LEisure golf

Golf Lessons

Ready to Sharpen Your Skills?

Andrés Jiménez, Director of Golf and Head Pro at Aloha Golf Club

The handsome Georgian terraces of Lowndes Square, one of London’s best addresses, is the last place one would expect to go for a golf lesson. But many do, for lurking in one of the lower levels, in what used to be squash courts, is the Knightsbridge Golf School.

Dave Lamplough, Steve Gould, visitor Peter Boyer and D.J. Wilkinson

G

oing inside is like entering a plush gentlemen’s club, but this is a place for women as well, which indeed is the case at enlightened London clubs these days.

So it was no big surprise to see walls plastered with pictures of celebrities, clients of two quietly unassuming characters called Steve Gould and Dave Wilkinson.

Hugh Grant is a regular. He says, “My golf addiction is out of control. I literally want to play from the moment I get up, to the time I go

to bed.” And when he is not playing, he is at Lowndes Square having Steve or Dave check his grip.

Sean Connery might be Scottish, but he was no golfer when he first came here, and it was on business. Remember the golfing scene in Goldfinger? Connery was coached for that by Steve and Dave.

Their book Golf’s Golden Rule has sold half as many copies as Tiger Woods’ autobiography. I can see why. It is a book that gets straight to the point – the impact zone.

Whether in the training studio, or the pages of this handsome book, everything is geared towards understanding something few golfers think about.

In the studio, there are video cameras, plus iPads on which they can instantly illustrate stances and swing movements. Rather than being just told what they did wrong, the client is shown an iPad picture with red lines illustrating what they just did, and how it should be done.

Steve and Dave aim to get clients to learn to hit through the impact zone, stressing that this is what pros do instinctively. So next time you are in London with a few minutes to spare, pop around the corner to Lowndes Square. If you sign up with the golf school you won’t even need an appointment.

The book is Golf’s Golden Rule, by Steve Gould and D.J. Wilkinson (Elliott & Thompson), www.eandtbooks.com Marbella, needless to say, has good golf coaches, including Andrés Jiménez at Aloha Golf Club, who is hard to beat for a series of lessons or

a quick fix to deal with a minor grip change.

Surfers have lots of choice, including Paul Wilson on YouTube. I like his tips for the easylooking Fred Couples game, practising with a swing half your normal speed, but not using a half swing. The idea is to slow down. Heard that before?

At the end of the day, if you want to be a good golfer, old-fashioned lessons are hard to beat.

Pros, from Tiger and Rory down, do it. As one swing coach said, only good players take lessons.

Some are naturals of course, while others get away with eccentric swings. For a while. Then one day they end up like characters in Bobby Rusher’s books. After a bad day on the course, he is the man to reunite you and sanity.

Rusher is the author of How to Line up your Fourth Putt. This book, found on the internet and mental asylums for golfers with the yips, has well chosen chapter headings such as When to regrip your ball retriever and How to feel good about yourself when your longest lifetime drive was 117 yards.

I felt like a new man after reading and putting into practice ‘How to successfully place your ball on the tee’, but ‘How to relax when you’re hitting five off the tee’ needs a session on a couch, and ‘Crying and how to handle it’, calls for a darkened room.

So humour will keep you sane, but what about your game? Sadly, this is no laughing matter and the only solution, other than buying a boat, is to take lessons. But believe me, lessons will be cheaper. e

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onl i ne&oi nes ol ut i ons

ma r k e t i nga sy ouha v ene v e r s e e nbe f or e. . .

www. me di a t i x . e s i nf o@me di a t i x . e s

THE LEISURE travel

High-end restaurants are sprouting like spring flowers from Vejer’s well-kept window boxes in the new Gastronomic Capital of the Costa de la Luz, as Belinda Beckett reports.

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID CUSSEN AND COURTESY OF THE HOTEL LA CASA DEL CALIFA AND HOTEL V

T

he old lady looked wistfully around her patio, remembering the old days. Once, it echoed to a cacophony of braying donkeys, clucking chickens and women laughing as they cooked and washed clothes together under the open sky.

The sense of community is what she misses most, she told me. Understandably, after years of living under the same roof with eight other extended Spanish families and their livestock, sharing one cooker in the courtyard and an outside loo!

That’s the way it was, for centuries in Vejer,

until the 1970s when the Moorish hilltop village was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument. The old lady’s home became a heritage site: the Casa de Mayorazgo – an 18th century baroque mansion with access to a watch tower in the city walls – listed on the Tourist Board website and open to the public for discreet visits.

Large Spanish families and communal patio homes are in a minority in Old Vejer today. Most of the original villagers have moved to more spacious accommodation in the New Town, leaving the foreigners to pay silly prices for quaint townhouses with low ceilings and rising

damp. New Vejer’s white Cubist architecture blends seamlessly into the Old Quarter across a grassy causeway that runs like a green cleavage between the breasts of twin hills. It has tarmac roads, supermarkets, schools, offices and the infrastructure required for everyday living.

Once upon a time, in Spain, you could tell a good place to eat by the number of prawn heads littering the bar floor. Not today in Vejer Old Town. In this Best Kept Village where garish plastic Coca Cola terrace furniture is outlawed, most hostelries boast designer makeovers and swanky disabled toilets (although, if you have a

Vejer

FRONTIER GASTRONOMY IN

Rooftop panorama from the Hotel V

© Hotel V - Vejer

DE LA FRONTERA

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sleek sanctuary marries stylish antiquity with contemporary creature comforts like underfloor bedroom heating and cool Porcelanosa bathrooms. Breakfast in the sun-filled atrium where a giant poinsettia tree stretches its branches skyward, descend the spiral glass staircase for an ayurvedic spa massage, unleash your inner Greek God in the Olympian setting of the rooftop Jacuzzi. You can even rent the whole place out as a private residence and have it all to yourself!

In winter you can have the Old Town pretty much to yourself, too, when it’s spookily bereft of visitors, recalling another ‘model village’ – Portmeirion in Wales, the setting for cult Sixties TV series, The Prisoner. From November to February, many restaurants close for

refurbishment but Vejer’s growing reputation as the Gastronomic Capital of the Costa de la Luz is changing that. “One of the finest and more varied collections of restaurants on the Iberian Peninsula”, wrote Restaurant magazine editor William Drew last year in an article for The Sunday Times. Darryl Hannah, Jude Law, Paul Weller and Hugh Cornwell from the Stranglers are among Vejer’s growing list of celebrity fans.

The 360-degree view from the battlements of this former Moorish stronghold reveals why Vejer has become such a foodie Mecca. Swathes of agricultural land follow the silvery trail of the River Barbate down to the choppy Atlantic.

Pastures are grazed by prized retinto beef cattle and payoyo goats whose rich milk is turned into tangy cheese; to the west are the ‘salad bowl’

© Restaurante Marengo

© Hotel V - Vejer

mobility problem, vertiginous Vejer’s not for you).

The pedestrianised cobbled streets are swept daily, the houses get an annual whitewash and potted geraniums flower perennially.

It’s easy to see why this immaculate village in provincial Cádiz has been conferred 2nd Most Beautiful Pueblo in Spain by top Spanish Travel Magazine, Viajar, after Ronda. Shops are artesan ateliers, tapas are ‘de autor’, homes are bijou and hotels boutique. The market sports hand-painted ceramic tiles, Ralph Lauren wallpaper and displays of fruit and veg so polished and perfect they could almost have been ‘photoshopped’.

The Hotel V, flaunting five-star finesse at the pinnacle of the pueblo, is a petite but perfectlyformed 12-bedroom spa hotel built within the walls of a 17th century manor house. This

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The stonework in La Casa del Califa’s Temple restaurant dates back to the 15th century

Vejer’s vertiginous streets will keep you fit

huertas of Conil and the Sherry Triangle towns of Jerez, Sanlucar and Puerta de Santa María; and in spring the coastal waters churn with blue fin tuna en route to the Mediterranean to spawn. Vejer has a delicatessen on its doorstep and a growing brigade of alchemist chefs are creating culinary gold with a pinch of salt and a twist of lemon, allowing these wonderful raw ingredients to speak for themselves.

The tourist board list of 30+, mostly familyrun restaurants, can barely keep up. Las Delicias, new kid on the orange-tree lined Corredera, is a converted theatre dishing up high drama and innovative food. The concept was supplied by celebrated Spanish designer Gaspar Sobrino whose clients include Zara, El Corte Inglés and Vejer market too! Chandeliers made from light bulbs and recycled fruit and veg pallets hang from the 10-metre ceiling; scaffolding used in the construction takes centre stage as a display for giant planters; the loos, when you can figure out which is which from the ‘W’ and upside-down ‘W’ (an M for Men, not Mujeres) are wall-to-ceiling mirror mosaics. The youngsters enjoy the live music at weekends; the oldies can’t believe their eyes!

El Jardín del Califa in pretty Plaza de España is one of four Michelin Guide-recommended restaurants and the first to take Vejer’s five centuries of Moorish rule as its culinary theme when it opened in 2001. Its palm courtyard,

En suite dreams at La Casa del Califa

Magic double act: James Stuart and his business partner Regli Álvarez at the Hotel La Casa del Califa

enclosed by ancient walls and lit with Moroccan lamps after dark, radiates a 1001 Nights buzz.

Inside the stone-clad dining room, a Moorish aljibe (well) does duty as a cosy dining alcove that’s reserved weeks in advance by the likes of Michael Portillo, Javier Bardem and Damien Hirst.

Scottish owner James Stuart’s love of Arabic cooking stems from growing up in Lebanon and Saudi and his Moroccan Executive Chef, Khadija Essaadi, makes the best tabbouleh in town. The restaurant is the centrepiece of his stylish twohotel complex perched on the sheer cliff-edge of town: No.1 Triperia (the only hotel in Vejer with a

pool) and the 20-room La Casa del Califa, a fusion of eight old houses creating a charming, higgledypiggledy layout with 12 staircases and seven entries on three different streets. Parts predate the city walls, another section was a 15th century grain store and the slope down to the restaurant was once plied by mules bringing goods up from the valley to be weighed and taxed.

James came to Spain as a hip young surfer over two decades ago. Currently, he’s among a small group of foreign entrepreneurs whose vision, combined with a healthy respect for antiquity and nature, has made Vejer what it is today. The errors

Picture perfect Plaza de España

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Marvel at the breathtaking views from our rooftop terrace.

The unique ambiance of captures the magic and poetry of Andalusia in an incomparable setting. boutique hotel is an enchanting hideaway in southern Spain where history is meticulously blended with modern comforts.

Enjoy a truly intimate atmosphere offering 12 elegantly appointed guestrooms.

Delicious fresh Andalusian breakfast.

Complimentary wifi throughout the hotel.

Honor bar.

Relaxing Ayurvedic spa treatments.

Underfloor heating in guestrooms and baths.

Extraordinary setting for small events and weddings.

Calle Rosario 11-13, Vejer de la Frontera Tel: 956 45 17 57 info@hotelv-vejer.com • www.hotelv-vejer.com

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Rooftop of Hotel V

Hotel VSuite

of judgement made by planners on the Costas have not been perpetrated here. Even the lagoon of La Janda, thoughtlessly drained by Franco in the 1960s, has been revitalised with rice paddies, encouraging many bird species to return to this natural wetland.

“Thankfully we had an enlightened Mayor for the first 15 years after Franco, Antonio Murillo, who saw Vejer’s potential and put strict regulations in place to preserve it, unlike some Mayors we won’t mention,” says James. “The current Alcalde is young, positive and commercially-minded, with an understanding that red tape strangles free enterprise.” James is particularly chuffed with the deal he did to get parking spaces outside the hotel’s front door, paying for cast iron street planters as quid pro quo!

Yet amid the superficial trendiness, vestiges of Vejer’s Islamic past are everywhere to see – in the tiled minarets of its former mosques, the Arabesque curves of its archways and the black burqa-style robes of La Cobijada, ‘the covered woman’, whose lifelike statue overlooks the village. Her garment, hiding all but one eye, was traditional female dress until the Spanish Civil War when it was outlawed to prevent criminals and bandits donning it in disguise.

Readopted as a symbol of the village, it’s only worn these days during the annual fiesta.

The Moorish conquest of Spain began on La Janda’s planes in 711 so it’s not surprising that Vejer’s maize of streets recall the medinas of Morocco. Since 2000 it has been twinned with Chaouen, a blue village in the Riff mountains whose hazy outline can be

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Belinda’s in the soup as Annie B retweets the butcher

Annie B’s Spanish Kitchen: Vejer-y Tasty!

Belinda Beckett spends a day drinking sherry and turning Vejer’s vernacular produce into lunch on a one-day cooking course with honorary ‘Vejeriega’ Annie B. Las Delicias

glimpsed on the horizon from here.

But a street plaque reveals a more romantic connection. Chaouen was built as a copy of Vejer 600 years ago – a gift from a Moroccan Emir for his homesick Vejeriega bride when they were expelled from the village after the Reconquest. During those wartorn years, Vejer played a strategic role in the defence of the realm as a border town between Moorish and Christian Spain, hence the ‘de la frontera’ suffix. As a dangerous place to live, people were encouraged to settle with gifts of community land, awarded in a Leap Year lottery still held, in a different format, today. One of the old drums used in the land raffle can be seen in the museum.

The famous 1805 Battle of Trafalgar is also connected with Vejer, whose townspeople cared for the wounded brought up from Cape Trafalgar – another reminder that the sea’s just 10km away. Unfortunately, the bonus of being close to the white beaches of El Palmar, Zahara, Barbate and Conil is also a drawback.

It disqualifies Vejer from inclusion in the official (and more inland) White Village Route which gets a subsidy

for whitewashing.

Vejer’s virtues extend to a modern theatre, a flamenco centre housed in an old church (with a bar) and a calendar of festivals that keeps it buzzing from Carnival in February to the wine harvest in September. In between, there’s The Sunshine Tour in nearby Montenmedio, Europe’s top winter equestrian event; the spectacular Easter celebrations that culminate in a scaled-down Pamplona bull run through town; in May, the villagers throw open their flower-scented courtyards for the Patio Festival and the blue fin tuna arrive for the culinary event of the season: the ‘almadraba’, a way of netting these ocean giants ecologically that’s been practised since Phoenician times. Vejer’s coastal towns celebrate with a Ruta de Atún, a mega tuna tapas crawl accompanied, of course, by a glass or six of sherry. ¡Buen provecho! g www.turismovejer.es

www.hotelv-vejer.com www.grupocalifa.com English-speaking guide Esperanza Guisado: guidedeyes@gmail.com

I

’m wearing a dazzling lime green apron that does nothing for my figure, zapping chestnuts and chorizo into warming winter soup in Annie B’s cosy kitchen. Comfort cooking at its best and I don’t have to do the washing up!

That’s chorizo Ibérico, N.B. – the one that comes from acorn-fattened black pigs, not swill-fed pink pigs.

“Each Iberian pig has a field of oak trees the size of a football pitch to graze in,” says Annie, offering me a slice of tocino. It looks like raw streaky bacon and I hang back. “Acorns contain oleic acid, just like olive oil, so the fat contains good cholesterol and melts in the mouth. Go on, it’s delicious!” It tastes even better with a glass of fino and I don’t hang back for that!

Spain, food, sherry – Annie’s passionate about all three. Drinking sherry in her kitchen has the air of a sacred rite and she reckons there’s nothing you can eat that doesn’t go with it. “If it swims, fino or manzanilla; if it flies, amontillado; if it runs, oloroso,” she repeats like a mantra, conjuring up a bottle of each for lunch! It’s made down the road in the Cádiz Sherry Triangle, “the only place in the world legally entitled to call it sherry,” enthuses this qualified Sherry Educator who ensures her protégées get plenty of practice along with the theory! But that’s not half of what makes Annie B’s Spanish Kitchen Vejer’s top attraction on Trip Advisor and one of The Sunday Times’ Top 52 Weekends of 2013.

The shopping’s half the fun! Forget the manic supermarket trolley dash and mind-numbing check-out queue – this is ‘slow flood’ corner-shop mooching the way your grandmother did it, stopping to chew the fat with the shop keepers (Iberian pork fat, N.B.). Campo-reared chicken and payoyo goat’s cheese have been discussed, sampled and tenderly placed in Annie’s (locally hand-woven) wicker basket this morning. “The only thing I have to buy in the supermarket is crème fraîche,” says Annie. Everything else grows or is reared in Vejer’s ‘cornucopious’ kitchen garden!

The butcher, the baker, the candlestick-maker – we’ve been to them all: to Pastelería Galvan, where Pepe’s family have made tortas Veriegas (Iberian pork lard biscuits) for three generations; to Patricia’s Chocolata boutique, to inhale the aroma of cocoa beans and buy hand-made Spanish chocolate; to Viña y Mar, where sherry distributor Ramón shows us 70 different kinds, some over 30 years old; to an Old Curiosity Shop crammed with pre-WW2 radios which are just to look at, not buy. At the market we inspect displays

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Annie B’s protégées rise to the occasion

of sea-fresh clams, mussels and squid and meet Ute, a producer of eco wine under the Etú label. “Hola Annie, ¿qué pasa?” Everyone knows this newly-adopted Vejeriega, a giri awarded honorary citizenship for a decade of services to local tourism!

Puffing back up the one-in-three hill to Casa Alegre, we hear the hiss of pressure cookers emanating from kitchen windows. Everyone in Vejer is cooking! “You can just watch if you like,” says Annie, setting our bags down on the stainless steel table in her lounge – now a teaching kitchen where chefs from Malaysia, gap year

students from Australia, a forensic accountant from India and families of personnel from the nearby US Naval Base at Rota have peeled, diced, sautéed and poached.

Annie’s ‘House of Happiness’ lives up to its name, a place where people of all ages and cultures can come sociably together over a gas range and a home-cooked meal (around her patio pool or on her rooftop terrace, with its ravishing views to Africa, in summer). She bought the townhouse as a bolt-hole from her successful London catering company, which fed 2,500 people for Capital Radio’s Party in the Park, rustled up Wrap Party nosh for a James Bond movie and lead cookery tours to Italy. But when she saw the bounty on Vejer’s doorstep it seemed illogical not to bring clients here. With her naturally bubbly and welcoming personality, word spread like Iberian manteca on tostada!

With her Spanish assistant Pepi whose family runs

a local fish restaurant, Annie offers one-to-five-day classes in fish cookery, home baking, Moroccan cuisine, low-carb food, anything you like. Bodega tastings, tapas bar crawls and a daily siesta are other ingredients in her recipe for holiday heaven. Guests can stay at an eclectic selection of boutique hotels and chic rural inns in the village, listed on her website.

As lunch is served, Annie’s smart phone pings. Social networking is another of her fortes. That’s how this Aberdeenshire farmer’s daughter and a few friends started World Sherry Day last year, conceived over glasses of fino in her kitchen and celebrated globally!

“International Sherry Week next June will be even bigger,” she promises.

The ‘ping’ was a Retweet from Paco Melero, the local butcher, who’s also socially switched-on. Apparently my photo is winging its way around Vejer and out into cyberspace. If only I didn’t resemble Miss Iberian Piggy in Annie’s lime green apron, everything would be perfect! i www.anniebspain.com

Annie B’s Tapas Top Ten

“IT REALLY IS POSSIBLE TO HAVE DINNER ON THE MOVE BY POPPING INTO EACH RESTAURANT FOR YOUR FAVOURITE DISH,” SAYS ANNIE B, WHOSE OWN RUTA DE TAPAS IS FOR STRICT ‘VEJER-ETARIANS’ – PEOPLE WHO EAT AND DRINK EVERYTHING! IT’S TOO LONG TO FEATURE IN FULL BUT YOU CAN EMAIL HER FOR THE UNEXPURGATED VERSION! Z EL JARDIN DEL CALIFA The Moroccaninspired kitchen is packed with eastern promise and the mouth-watering meze platter really delivers! Enjoy it with a robust red Cortijo de Jara from Jerez. jardin.lacasadelcalifa.com Z MARENGO For langoustines wrapped in basil and wakra pastry, deep fried and served with peanut sauce – fantastic with fino. Drink oloroso with the yummy retinto beef mini-burgers. Santisimo, 1. Tel: 956 450 883.

Z CASA VARO The carpaccio of almadraba tuna partnered with palo cortado sherry or the albondigas de choco, divine with a

chilled Verdejo from Rueda to refresh you after the uphill walk! Nuestra Sra. de la Oliva 9. Tel: 956 447 734.

Z LOS QUATRO GATOS For tapas served by the shot glass! You can order larger portions too. The cod brandade, oxtail risotto, squid teriyaki and jasmine tea cheesecake all go down a treat! losquatrogatos.com Z TRAFALGAR For the best rabo de toro ever, especially with a glass of Acinipo tinto from Ronda. Or try the tuna with a chilled amontillado in this Michelin-recommended restaurant. www. restaurantetrafalgar.com

Z LAS DELICIAS The avant garde décor alone is a feast for the senses and the dishes are ground-breaking too. The carpaccio of Presa Iberica and the spicy tuna burgers live up to the restaurant’s name. lasdeliciasvejer.com Z PEPE JULIAN Fabulous for boquerones in vinegar, puntillitas (tiny deep-fried squid) and jámon Ibérico. Pepe cuts it in front of you, holding the plate upside down to demonstrate that the good quality fat is already melting! Juan Relinque, 7. Tel: 956 451 098.

Z VINA Y MAR WINE BAR For the best sherry in town, by the glass or bottle. An

amontillado with their ventresca tuna and beetroot burger is a marriage made in heaven. Nuestra Sra. de La Oliva 8. Tel: 956 455 167.

Z BAR NAVARRO Their fab fried fish platter is unrivalled in Vejer and it’s one of the few places in town to offer whole squid à la plancha, my favourite! C/ Juan Bueno, 8. Tel: 956 450 274.

Z EL CENTRAL A must for tostas con anchoas y boquerones – a marriage of salted and pickled anchovies with alioli and tomato salsa. With a glass of manzanilla, this is my desert island dish!

C/ Teniente Castrillón, 5. Tel: 956 450 457.

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met

RESTAURANTS / REVIEWS / NEWS / WINE / CHEFS / GUIDE

Enjoy our review of new international dining hotspot, C’est La Vie, tuck into tasty snacks at Funky Tapas, meet prolific restaurateur, Lee Varhos and find out why low-alcohol wines are catching on.

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C’est La Vie

101

Funky Tapas

102 Food News 104 Restaurateur Profile: Lee Varhos of Umami 106 Wine: Low-Alcohol Wines

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THE ART OF FINE THAI CUISINE RESERVATIONS: 952 818 392 Open Every Evening for Dinner Ctra. de Cรกdiz Km. 175 PUERTO BANร S (Behind The Shell Petrol Station) Marbella www.thaigallerymarbella.com

TAI PAN chinese cuisine polynesian bar

Serving Marbella in a Select Atmosphere for Decades.

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

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00 www.taipanmarbella.com

SUKHOTHAI Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine

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

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restaurant THE GOURMET

There’s aat Kind of Buzz...

C’est La Vie in San Pedro

WORDs Marisa cutillas Photography www.photographermarbella.com

O

ne of these is undoubtedly C’est La Vie, a restaurant with an indoor and outdoor setting, each with its own particular brand of magic. The restaurant was founded some six months ago by young couple, Dennis and Natalia Broberg. Dennis, a savvy entrepreneur, keen athlete (he is currently training for a half-Ironman race) and serious gourmet, had always dreamed of opening a restaurant. His talented wife, Natalia, helped make this dream come true, her studies in Business (she has a Masters from IE) taking the couple far when it comes to setting the mood and building a lively social media following on networks like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

One of the most inviting aspects of C’est La Vie is the ‘hands-on’ approach of the owners. Dennis is, quite simply, gifted when it comes to people. A regular presence at the restaurant, he remembers every name and likes to make sure diners are happy with the meal and the service. Natalia, meanwhile, has bestowed the interiors with touches that are sophisticated, contemporary and cosy all at once. The style is akin to that of a New York loft: grey walls, made from a blend of wood and concrete, are complemented beautifully by velvet pink Chesterfield seating, bespoke wooden tables, a ‘starlit ceiling’, contemporary artwork and a custom-made bar. Outside, the look is far more Scandinavian: light wood is married to verdant foliage and diners experience the ultimate in comfort, beneath the gentle glow of the toasty outdoor heaters.

On Wednesday and Saturday nights, the mood is both lively and seductive, thanks to the sultry voice of K:Miss, a knockout jazz/soul music singer.

They say that the major part of a restaurant’s charm lies in the food it serves and having sampled their wares, I can only conclude that C’est La Vie will be around for a long time. The eclectic nature of the menu is highly appealing; it reads like a world gastronomic tour, offering everything from Lebanese delights to mini and large-sized gourmet burgers (think lamb, kobe beef or salmon) as well as an array of Italian dishes (pastas and risottos), wraps, wok dishes, salads, vegetarian selections, etc. “Our idea was to offer something for everyone – someone after a hearty meal will find their match here, but so will another guest after a healthy or vegetarian meal”, says Natalia. Kids, meanwhile, will love the appealing choices on the ‘Mini-Me’ menu.

Upon my first visit to San Pedro’s new ‘it’ venue, revered by gastronomes and cocktail lovers alike, it seemed to me that this lively street, smack bang in the centre of San Pedro, had come to life overnight. The wealth of new businesses, restaurants and chic hangouts for trendy revellers caught my eye, though of course, there are many forces that have led to this phenomenon.

My dining companion and I sampled three popular dishes: the soft shell crab salad, the C’est La Vie (a sizeable platter of mixed starters which dazzled our sense of sight as much as it titillated our taste buds) and the kobe beef burger. The salad was no less than outstanding: lightly crisp on the outside and soft and fleshy at first bite, the crab was accompanied by the magnificent Asian flavours of seaweed and a slightly sweet dressing. The shared starter platter, meanwhile, was impressive in size and variety. We were delighted to receive dishes like the deep-fried wonton prawns, mini burgers (one lamb and one beef), a tender prosciutto ham salad, homemade chicken fingers, a salmorejo ‘shot’ and satay chicken skewers. Every bite revealed the talent and penchant for top grade produce of Chef, Nicolás Tisone, whose cuisine reveals touches of Italian and Argentinean influences. Nicolás, whose childhood was marked by magical experiences in the kitchen with his grandparents, cooking everything from filled pastas to knife-cut spaghetti and tomato ragu, also recalls the delightful dishes and desserts whipped up by his mother. He has been cooking for a living since he was 14.

Satisfied by our starters, we then tried the kobe beef burger, served with the uniquely delicious new potato wedges – just as soul satisfying as you would imagine.

C’est La Vie is likewise famed for its talented cocktail maker, who made us a piña colada that was, in my companion’s words “to-die-for”. Wine lovers, meanwhile, will find their match in the select wine list, carefully crafted by Dennis. It comprises wines from the most renowned grape varieties, though not, perhaps, in the precise bottles you may have expected. Expect to find unique choices like the Carmelo Rodero or the Pago de Carraovejas here.

As we ended our meal and bade farewell to the lovely Natalia, my companion and I already began planning our next visit to C’est La Vie. Its blend of sophistication, exquisite food and inimitable ambience, make it a place to be enjoyed many times over by those who love food with a passion.

C’est La Vie will be holding a special LOVE Dinner on February 14. The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as for coffee and drinks.

g Avda. de Las Palmeras (opposite the NH Hotel), San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 783 394. www.c-estlavie.es, www.facebook.com/clvrestaurant 174 ReR cestavie.indd 99

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RESTO

EL COTO

BELGIAN RESTAURANT бельгийский ресторан

NEW MENU Open every day Ctra. de Ronda Opposite Madroñal, nº 3 29679 Benahavis Tel: 952 786 688 belgianresto@gmail.com НОВОЕ МЕНЮ открыты ежедневно дорога Ronda напротив Madroñal, No 3, Benahavis телефон: 952 786 688

RESTO

MYTILUS BELGIAN RESTAURANT

BELGIAN SPECIALITIES Mussels and fries, steak tartare, vol au vent etc.

Open every evening.

Saturday & Sunday open all day.

Puerto Deportivo Sotogrande Tel: 956 790 212 belgianresto@gmail.com

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restaurant THE GOURMET

Funky Tapas

Funky Platter: a large ‘slate’ with a selection of six or so of the Chef’s choice. This way you can see the type of thing on offer and select more individual dishes afterwards. Prices on the extensive menu range from €1,95 to €6,95 and there are usually daily specials.

On the day we were there, the special of Marinated Lamb Cutlets on a bed of Moroccan Cous Cous was superb. There is a great selection of fish such as Ceviche of Scallops with Tiger Milk, Sashimi of Tuna and Salmon, Fried Squid with Wasabislaw, ‘Bucket’ of Mussels in a Wine and Cream sauce, Lemon and Garlic marinated Goujons of Fish with Skinny Fries and a great Fish Pie. There’s a humorous side to the menu as the team have dropped in some ‘British’ favourites such as Quail Scotch Egg with Piccalilli Puré, Baby Cornish Pasty and a mini Cottage Pie!

© Gary Edwards

B

ut this is no ordinary tapas bar; this is a modern designed restaurant bar with high tables for casual eating and drinking and lower dining tables where one can while away the day, or evening, working your way through the ample dishes of modern plates of food, small portions more akin to a tasting menu style. To even start to go through all the dishes would take time and anyway we couldn’t remember all of them! But each dish is made and presented to order.

Funky Tapas is the brainchild of seasoned restaurateur Garry Waite, who also owns the equally successful Restaurant Nueva Campana, some 200 metres down the road. Chef Maurice Curtin is in charge of both kitchens and spends his time flitting between the two maintaining the highest standards in both.

First timers should order the

© Gary Edwards

When people keep talking to you about a newly opened restaurant and how good it is and how busy, especially considering it’s January, then one is always intrigued. So armed with bagfuls of curiosity and relatively peckish we went to Funky Tapas in La Campana, Nueva Andalucia. It was packed!!

© Gary Edwards

WORDs C. Andersen Photography www.photographermarbella.com

Service is slick and attentive with a very attractive front of house team and the atmosphere is great. Modern music is at the right level without the ‘boom boom’ background! Chatting to the manageress, she told us that they are starting ‘ginmania’ cocktails which are apparently all the rage in modern European bar/restaurants.

g Open every day from midday to midnight. Avda. Miguel de Cervantes 20, La Campana, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 811 590.

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Different gins with different flavours.

As a G&T man I am intrigued, but I’m a simple soul. There are cocktails and a small but interesting wine list.

All in all, if you are looking for a place that has a touch of class, serves great food, offers good service with nice people and with a great ambience - then we’ve found it!

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WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

THE GOURMET news

Jerez Elected City of Wine 2014

Jerez was recently chosen ‘European City of wine 2014’ at the 17th Assembly General of Recevin (the European Network of Wine Cities). The event, held in Marsala (Italy), marks a huge achievement for Jerez and Andalucía as a whole, since it speaks volumes for the quality of Andalusian wines. Jerez also played an important role at the tourism fair, Fitur, where it was marketed as host of the Ibero-American Business Forum of Wine – which will take place this month – and of Vinoble, a wine event involving almost 800 wines hailing from 20 different countries.

g www.jerez.es

New Website Presents Nouvelle Way of Ranking Restaurants

MADRID FUSIÓN: Predictions for 2014 Madrid Fusión is one of Spanish gastronomy’s most important events, since it features conferences by some of the country’s most famous chefs and highlights events and trends to watch out for in the upcoming year. In 2014, food buffs can look forward to a host of changes – for one, female Chefs will be playing a much more important role than in years past. Secondly, we will definitely be seeing a return to traditional recipes, where local, seasonal products hold sway.

The penchant for all things ecological will extend to fish, which will be ‘humble’ (i.e. more affordable and locally sourced) and served with delicious new sauces made with original ingredients like algae and plankton. Various Chefs spoke of their respective projects for 2014. Ferran Adrià, for instance, plans on “decodifying the culinary genome” and publishing his findings in a new encyclopedia, to be entitled Bullipedia. In his work, he will be asking 50 questions which will change the way we think about cuisine. g www.madridfusion.net

DEZENTRAL MARBELLA:

Coffee Made with Love!

Dezentral is a new coffee shop opened in Nueva Andalucía (near Terra sana and Il Restaurante) by the Director of animal charity, ANBAD. The coffee shop will enable animal lovers to indirectly help the charity, which rescues so many animals, allowing them to avoid abandonment or a cruel death. The shop serves Italian coffee, German bread, homemade cakes, organic tea, Bionade, breakfast and lots more.

g C/ Las Malvas, Edif. Online Local 19-20, Super Manzana B, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 648. www.dezentral-marbella.com

One of the best ways to glean the excellence of a restaurant is by studying its booking rates. New site, www.restaurantes.com, allows us to do just that, since it ranks restaurants throughout Spain according to the number of reservations they receive. The site also provides interesting statistics. For instance, did you know that some 70 per cent of all bookings made in Spain are for restaurants serving Spanish cuisine?

Or that Madrid and Barcelona are the two Spanish cities with the most online reservations? See how your favourite restaurant rates, or discover new restaurants which are currying favour with diners from all over the country.

Brand New Delights

AT LA MORAGA Trendy tapas venue, La Moraga in Puerto Banús, recently treated friends and customers to a titillating experience, offering them the chance of sampling an array of new dishes, 11 of which have been created

by Michelin-starred Chefs, including Oriol Castro, Manolo de la Osa, Pepe Rodríguez Rey, Diego Guerrero, José Polo, David Muñoz, Pepe Solla, Julio Fernández, Nacho Manzano, Jordi Roca and Andrea Tumbarello.

These great Chefs have made it possible for diners at La Moraga to feel like they have dined at 11 different restaurants. Congratulations to La Moraga on this creative new concept, which they entitled “Para Soñar… El Rincón de las Estrellas’.

g www.lamoraga.com

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THE GOURMET profile

“Your home is your heart,” says Lee Varhos, enigmatic restaurateur, business and family man, as he joins me for a coffee in a popular Marbella coffee shop.

And he should know, since he has lived and prospered in a myriad of different countries, finding his own definition of happiness in each of them.

SERVING THE WORLD ON A PLATTER

Lee Varhos WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.PHOTOGRAPHERMARBELLA.COM

L

ee’s exotic good looks can be attributed to his Turkish ancestry; he was born and raised in Istanbul, though at the tender age of 17, he made a life-changing move to Stockholm. “My friends and I were very left-wing at school,” he explains, “and we often got into trouble. The very day I crossed the border to Sweden, there was a military coup.

Most of my friends were not as lucky as I was”. Lee was saved a difficult fate, largely through the kindness of friends. “Since I was underage, I wasn’t able to travel without a visa, but as I was an actor who performed in public theatre in Turkey, some friends from Sweden were able to issue a formal invitation for me to perform in Stockholm. Once there, I enrolled in the Economics Department at University. To be honest, I never thought I would make my home in Stockholm”. When I ask Lee if the adaptation process was difficult, he says it was surprisingly smooth. “I missed the sunshine, but

on the other hand, the Swedes are very good at adapting to the weather.

Life there starts as early as 5am and offices normally close at around 5pm”.

By the time Lee came to Spain for the first time (in 1985), he had already been married, had a daughter and a son (now aged 36 and 34, respectively) and owned a string of successful restaurants. He quit his Economics degree just six months before graduation, working as a waiter and pizzaiolo for two years before opening a little pizzeria in 1976 called Gallo D’Oro. After a four-year stint, he sold up and moved to Uppsala, where he opened a very popular restaurant in a 100-year-old pharmacy which he restored himself.

So successful was this venture that Lee opened two more branches in different cities, only to once again sell up and move to greener pastures. “I sold it to Italian restaurateurs who are now very wealthy!” he laughs, adding, “My brothers still don’t forgive me for selling that restaurant!”

Lee has launched around 25 restaurants in his lifetime, yet he has never thought twice about selling up and making a move. “I have never been attached to places or to things,” says Lee. In 1985, he moved to Marbella alongside his wife, setting up one of Marbella’s most famous restaurants of all time: La Comedia, in the heart of the Old Town. Unfortunately, Lee’s wife did not share his passion for Marbella

and insisted they move to America.

The couple soon opened a restaurant in Tampa, Florida. The marriage may not have worked out in the end, but Lee’s Midas touch was in top form and the restaurant proved popular among the locals.

Despite not being too attached to his surrounds, Lee admits to having suffered in the US: “One day I was talking to my friends in Europe on the phone and I started crying”, he says, since by now he was divorced and alone in this far-off land. Lee followed the dictates of his heart, selling the restaurant and heading once again for Stockholm. There, he opened a pioneering restaurant offering 50 per cent organic food on the menu.

Lee returned to Marbella in 1986, opening Lee’s Deli, then Passion Café in San Pedro and three more Passion Café’s in Marbella, Estepona and Guadalmina (the latter was known as Passion Italia). He sold each of these then ventured into another new project, Harmony, with the aim of being recognised with a Michelin star – However, “things didn’t work out” with his partners and a year later, Lee left and founded Delight, where he would serve up unimaginably healthy foods like Wild Alaskan Salmon – “That cost me €25 a kilo, I was mad!” he says, since Spain was in the middle of a recession.

These days, Lee works his magic at Umami, where the overriding quality of everything he serves, is “sabor” (“taste”). The menu

tempts us with authentic dishes from Thailand, India, Sweden and Spain. For your first visit to Umami, we recommend allowing Lee to suggest dishes for your table – he calls this “taking the world tour”. The new menu features Small Starters, Mains and Plates to Share. Lee says, proudly: “The new structure of the menu was recommended by my son. He is a Director of a large company with 18 restaurants, while my daughter is a film Producer in Stockholm. I am very proud of my children; they are my diamonds, my only treasure”. After a warm embrace, he departs and it is easy to see how he himself is one of Marbella’s authentic treasures.

g Open Monday for dinner, Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sundays.

Avd. del Mediterráneo, Edif. San Pedro del Mar, San Pedro. Tel: 952 780 114. www.restauranteumami.com

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THE GOURMET wine

Reduced-Alcohol Wines

A Glimpse of the Future?

Words AJ LINN

The seven elegant ladies had ordered water when they arrived at the smart beach-front Marbella restaurant.

They were business ladies of different nationalities, and while seemingly happy to relax over the food, the way they were clutching their i-Phones indicated they were not intending to spend all afternoon there. Only when the main course arrived did they order wine, which they drank appreciatively.

A

wine of 14.5% alcohol has about 60 calories per normal glass, so would these diet-conscious ladies not have been better off ordering a wine with just 7% alcohol, and therefore half the calories, from the start? Then they could have enjoyed wine throughout their meal without increasing their overall calorific or alcohol intake.

This is what reduced-alcohol wine is all about.

Alcoholic strengths have increased stealthily over recent years, and a Priorato can weigh in as high as 15%.

Reduced-alcohol wine is not as new as it may seem, thanks to sherry. The typical drink at Andalucian ferias is fino sherry, but in recent times it became apparent that drinking it continuously for up to twelve hours was debilitating, to say the least. Since Sanlúcar de Barrameda’s manzanilla was a degree or two less in alcohol than Jerez’s fino, feria-goers switched to manzanilla, thereby making a conscious decision to opt for the healthier alternative.

Commercial low alcohol wines only got into stores of late, probably due to ingrained prejudice within the trade. Asked the other day if he had considered making a reduced-alcohol wine, a Ribera del Duero bodega owner told me that the French had tried it 20 years ago and it was ‘awful’. Useless to point out that modern technology can now produce wines with only 8% or 9% alcohol that are otherwise indistinguishable from their full-strength counterparts.

This well-known bodeguero was probably referring to wine that had been diluted with water, resulting in a wine that tasted like watered-down wine. Another technique is picking the grapes before they are fully ripe and so have less sugar to convert into alcohol, but unsurprisingly the finished wine lacks depth and character.

From a range of techniques that include vacuum distillation and low pressure evaporation with inert gas, reverse osmosis is the favoured process enabling the production of wines down to 5.5% alcohol. The alcohol is removed under pressure using a semi-permeable membrane, and, as with all similar methods, it is only necessary to reduce enough wine to enable it to be mixed back with untreated wine to attain the final blend at the required alcohol level.

Australia is always at the forefront of winemaking technology, and its latest development, operated by US-based Conetech worldwide, is as near perfect as possible. The spinning-cone column process breaks wine down into its components, making it possible to separate alcohol and flavour independently, removing the first and adding back the second subsequently.

Currently Conetech has around 600 clients, and its new plant in Murcia is available to Spanish bodegas wanting to enter this market without capital investment.

Although everyone seems to agree that reducedalcohol wine is a great idea, it is still scarce in restaurants and supermarkets. While the New Zealand government offers subsidies for the production of reduced-alcohol wines, EU and FSA regulations have been unhelpful, banning UK Tesco’s currentlysuccessful Sovia range from sale back in 2007. The EU finally approved techniques to ‘modify’ wine in 2012, and the contentious ruling that anything with less than 8.5% alcohol cannot call itself wine is scheduled for review. The other good news is that in EU countries with frighteningly high import taxes based on alcoholic content, reduced-alcohol wines can bring meaningful price reductions at the checkout.

Wines with between 5.5% and 9% alcohol are common in the New World, Italy and Germany, while in Spain Torres and Matarromera produce excellent zero alcohol ‘wine’, Torres’s by the Conetech process.

But it is a mystery why these two bodegas have opted for 0% wines while ignoring reduced-alcohol wines. Another leading bodega, CVNE, does make two wines with 9% alcohol, Nuve red and white, at around 6 euros. Botani espumoso from Málaga’s Jorge Ordoñez group weighs in at 6.5% and may be the answer if you are looking for something like a reduced-alcohol cava, and Yllera does a pretty stomach-churning sweet 5.5% version.

Many forecasters believe that the future lies with low-alcohol, low-calorie, wines, although sceptics point out that low-nicotine cigarettes did not do much for the smokers’ cause. e

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theguide

RESTAURANTS / CINEMAS / GOLF / GYMS /

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

TENNIS / SCHOOLS

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

€60 plus

ROUTE 66

el banco

::: FRENCH :::

::: AMERICAN :::

Open 10am until midnight every day.

Plaza Antonio Banderas 17/29, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 951 136 333

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

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

HARD ROCK CAFÉ

Yanx

Tango

Chateau Mona lisa

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

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

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

Centro Plaza, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 861

Open daily for dinner except Sundays.

Puerto Banús (opp. the car park).

Tel: 952 812 358

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Muelle Ribera 8, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 808

::: ARGENTINEAN :::

::: BELGIAN :::

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

C/ Virgen del Pilar, 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 779 297

Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Ronda (El Madroñal), San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 786 688

RESTAURANTS

Jacks Open seven days a week from noon till late.

Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 813 625, Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 563 673

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

Avda. Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 785 257

Buenos Aires South Clericó

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda.

Antonio Belón, 22, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 683

El Coto

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

Casa mono

rendez vous Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6pm and Sunday from 9am to 2pm. Closed Tuesday.

Avda. del Prado, Aloha Gardens, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 813 912

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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::: GREEK :::

MARBELLA CLUB GRILL

Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 148

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

Red Pepper

::: GRILLS :::

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

Asador guadalmina Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Urb. Guadalmina Alta, C.C. Guadalmina, Local 3, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 883 003

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

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

Tel: 952 886 307

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

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

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

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

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

Tel: 952 867 306

Piratas flame grill

Open daily for dinner from 7pm. Conj. Buenavista, L 21-22, Avda. de España, Calahonda. Tel: 952 931 829

amigos

Massala

aroma

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 23, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 665 502

Mr. india

baboo lounge and restaurant

Open daily from 6pm. Milla de Oro (next to Da Bruno a Casa), Marbella. Tel: 952 867 868

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday.

C/ Málaga 3, Benahavis. Tel: 952 855 175

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday. Puerto Deportivo de Marbella, Locales 37-40, Marbella. Tel: 952 865 940

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

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

Restaurante Rancho

safFron

Bar d’o restaurant & Lounge

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

Open from 7 pm ‘til late night every day. Parque de Elviria, local 7-9, Las Chapas (take second exit, after Hotel Don Carlos), Marbella. Tel: 952 830 146

Open daily from 11am to 2am (3am on weekends).

Avda. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, Edif. Milla de Oro, Local 567, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 229

The Grill House restaurant Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday.

C.C. Cristamar, Local 32, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 319 842

::: INDIAN ::: Chowka

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 380

Jaipur palace

::: INTERNATIONAL ::: Albert & simon

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Coto de los Doles, Carril del Relojero, Elviria, Marbella.

Tel: 952 839 458

Open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday and for dinner only on Saturday. Closed Sundays.

Urb. Nueva Alcántara, Edif. Mirador, Bloque 4-B, Marbella. Tel: 952 783 714

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

alberts

Black and white Marbella

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

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

Tel: 952 815 607

Open every night except Tuesday for dinner.

CN340, km 194, next to Camping Cabopino, Marbella. Tel: 951 310 004

alumbre

Jaipur Purple

Amanhavis

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

Tel: 952 888 353

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

Little India

beach house

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Strachan 11, Málaga. Tel: 951 500 022

beckitts

Brunings Open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 7 pm.

Las Palmeras 19, San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 786 156

CAFÉ DE RONDA Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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THE GUIDE Price guide ::::::: per head for a three-course meal with wine Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 149

Café del mar Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Coral Beach s/n, km. 176, Marbella. Tel: 952 777 299

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

cappuccino grande cafe Open daily for lunch and dinner. José Meliá s/n (Hotel Gran Meliá Don Pepe), Marbella. Tel: 952 868 790

Casanis Open every day from 6pm except Sundays.

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

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

Tel: 952 895 639.

cerrado del águila

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

€60 plus

del mar

EL OLIVO

Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Puente Romano. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

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

Don Leone

El Restaurante del Casino

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

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

Dynamic Café

Fabiola

Open Monday to Sunday for lunch. Ctra. de Istán, km. 0.9, C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 021

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

girasol

Finca Besaya

güey

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

Open nightly for dinner. Plaza de las Orquídeas 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 929 250

Finca El Forjador

hermosa

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm.

Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino.

Tel: 952 837 483

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

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

EL JINETE

c’est la vie

El lago

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Paseo Las Palmeras, 15, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 783 394

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. Urb. Elviria Hills. Avda. Las Cumbres s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 371

cortijo fain

EL MIRADOR

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Algar, km. 3, Arcos de la Frontera, Cádiz. Tel: 956 704 131

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

Tel: 952 809 500

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

Finca las brasas

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:30pm to 11pm.

Ctra. de Mijas, km. 1, A-387, Alhaurín El Grande.

Tel: 951 254 520

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 Open daily for dinner from 6.30p.m. Avda. del Prado, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. Tel: 952 813 859

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Ctra. FuengirolaMijas, between CN 340 and highway. Tel: 952 580 513

Herrero del Puerto

funky tapas

hotel marbella club buffet

Open daily from 12 midday to 12 midnight. Avda.

Miguel de Cervantes 34, Marbella. Tel: 952 811 590

Galeria San Pedro

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Casas de Campos, 1, Málaga. Tel: 952 122 075

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

Open from 11am until midnight. Closed Sundays.

Avda Las Palmeras 15, San Pedro Alcántara.

Tel: 952 780 927

Ikni Banús

fonda restaurante el postillón

il mare

Open daily for for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

C.C. Cristamar, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 929 978 Open every evening for dinner. Playa del Rodeo,

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Marbella. Tel: 951 319 372

952 792 734

Mc café

karma

La Terraza

Open every day from 10am until late. C/ Las Violetas 7, Conjunto Andalucía Garden Club, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 815 736

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

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

Tel: 952 822 211

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

LA biznaga

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

Messina

polynesians

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday. Avda.

Severo Ochoa, 12, Marbella. Tel: 952 864 895

Open Monday to Sunday from 5pm to 2am. Urb. La Alcazaba, CN 340, km 175. Tel: 952 816 100

MOJO

puente romano beach club

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 cabaña del mar Open every day for lunch and for dinner from Monday to Saturday. Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona CN 340, km 159, Playa El Padrón, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

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

Closed Sunday. Flamingo Golf Club, Cancelada, Benahavís. Tel: 951 318 815

La Loggia

La Terraza La Veranda Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner.

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

La Verandah

passion café

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

Open week days for dinner at 7:30pm and weekends for lunch and dinner, closed Tuesdays.

Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 136. Playa Guadiaro, Torreguadiaro, Cádiz. Tel: 956 615 998

mosaik4

La veranda lobby bar

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday. Urb. Las Chapas, Marbella.

Tel: 952 839 901

Restaurant lounge camurí

Miraflores Golf Restaurant

Restaurante royal

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

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

Tel: 952 441 414

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

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

Tel: 952 762 000

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

los bandidos

La Menorah

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Urb. Los Naranjos de Marbella. Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 816 105

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Arena Beach, CN 340, km. 151.2, Estepona. Tel:

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

C/ Moncayo 12, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 460 232 / 648 502 822

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

Los naranjos restaurant

Open daily from 12pm to 3am. Avda. Manolete, esq. C/ Los Lirios, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 929 467

mozaic

NUEVA CAMPANA Open daily for lunch and dinner, except Tuesday.

La Campana, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 041

Nueva Kaskada Open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Closed Monday and Tuesday. Urb. La Montua, C/ Chorreadero 39, Marbella. Tel: 952 864 478

PURO BEACH Open daily for lunch and dinner. Laguna Village, Playa El Padrón, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 800 015 Open daily for lunch and dinner. At Laguna Villa.

CN340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 951 217 871

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

Sea grill

OCHO

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

952 820 900

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

shanti-som – amrita

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THE GUIDE Price guide ::::::: per head for a three-course meal with wine Open Monday to Thursday from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Friday and Saturday from 1:30pm to 4.30 pm and 8pm to 10.30pm. Ctra. de Ojén, km 22, A355, Marbella-Monda. Tel: 952 864 455

shiraz Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Puerto Deportivo, Local 15, Marbella.

Tel: 952 778 334

Skina Open for dinner Monday to Saturday. C/ Aduar 12, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 277

SMALL WORLD CAFé Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ctra.

Istán, km 1, C.C: Le Village 15, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 046

Suave Open every day for lunch and dinner. Paseo Maritimo Rey de España 93, Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 866 627

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

Swing Open from 12-4pm and 7.30pm until midnight.

Closed Wednesdays. Arena Beach, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 151, Estepona. Tel: 952 796 320

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

Terra Sana

Open Monday to Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nueva Andalucía next to the Casino.

Tel: 952 906 205. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 817 977. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 951 901 050. C/ Camilo José Cela s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 772 686.

The Clubhouse Bar & Brasserie Open Tuesday to Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Urb. Los Naranjos de Marbella, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 908 844

The meeting room Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays.

Avda. Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella. Tel: 952 772 577

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

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

Tel: 952 798 449

under €25

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

umami Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Avda. Mediterráneo, Edif. San Pedro del Mar. San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 780 114

€40 – €60

€60 plus

Venta garcía

Caruso

Open daily for lunch and dinner every day except Monday. Ctra. de Casares km 7, Casares.

Tel: 952 894 191

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday 7pm until midnight. Avda. de la Constitución, corner C/ Andalucía, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 782 293

What’s cooking deli and takeaway Open daily from 10am to 7pm. C.C. Guadalmina, Local 34, Marbella. Tel: 952 886 748

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

zozoI Open Monday to Saturday for dinner from 7.30pm-12am. Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella.

Tel: 952 858 868

::: ITALIAN ::: Al Dente

Open 7 days a week for dinner. Closed on Mondays. Urb. Jardines del Puerto, local 12, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 181

Amore e Fantasía

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

€25 – €40

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

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

Tel: 952 812 898

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

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

Da Bruno Open all day. Pasta Da Bruno: Avda. Ricardo Soriano, 27, Marbella. Tel: 952 860 348 – closed on Sunday. 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

De Medici Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. Urb. El Pilar, C.C. Benapilar, Estepona. Tel: 952 884 687

Don giovanni Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. de Antonio Belón 3, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 550

Frascati Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de Los

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Naranjos s/n, Sotogrande. Tel: 952 790 392

s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 133

Villa Tiberio

gold restaurant

Metro

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Puerto Marina, Benalmádena.

Tel: 952 446 460

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

la fiorentina

nunos

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

Tel: 952 885 765

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

la pappardella di estepona

Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 909 990

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

O mamma mia

Pizzeria Picasso Open daily from 12 noon. Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 669

portofino laguna village

la trattoria de marbella

::: Mediterranean ::: tempora

Open nightly for dinner. C/ Tetuán 9, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 933

Guadalmina Alta, Guadalmina 4, local 2, lower floor, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 896 508

Kama Kura Open Tuesday to Saturday from 8-11pm. The San Roque Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 127, San Roque, Cádiz. Tel: 956 613 030

Makitake

::: Oriental :::

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

Asia Food

meca

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Comercial, Pinares de Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 850 060

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

asiatico zen

Namazake

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Tuesday lunch. C/ Lirios s/n, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 817 691

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Puente Romano. Tel: 952 820 900

Dragón de Oro

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

Osaka

Open nightly for dinner from 6:30pm. C/ Las Malvas, Edif. Online, Local 4, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 591

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 035

Leonardo da vinci

Open every night for dinner and Sunday for lunch. Edif. La Ruleta, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 529

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

Lombardo’s

Rosmarino della piazza

golden wok

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

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

Tel: 952 850 148

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner. P. de las Orquideas, C/ Iris, 11B, Edif. Excelsior no. 1, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 813 603

KABUKI raw

Sakura

trattoria l’impronta

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

Tel: 952 937 800

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda.

Jardines del Puerto, L.5, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 817 536

Kaiden Sushi

Sapporo

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Com.

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Costa del

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

MADE IN SARDINIA Open every night for dinner. C.C. Cristamar, Avda.

Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 608

mesana Open nightly for dinner. At the Gran Hotel Gvadalpín. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe

Ristorante Regina

Open daily for lunch and dinner except on Tuesday. Avda. Salamanca, Edif. San Pedro del Mar, Local 14, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 785 943

RestaurantE asiático Bangkok

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THE GUIDE Price guide ::::::: per head for a three-course meal with wine Sol, upper level. CN-340, km. 166 (Estepona). Tel: 952 888 710

Sukho Thai

Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Urb. Puerto Deportivo 13, Edif. Poniente, Estepona. Tel: 951 318 445

top thai

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday.

Centro Comercial Marbellamar.

Tel: 952 770 550

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, 64, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 319 778

Sushi des artistes

Tse yang Dimsum club

Open every day for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking. Tel: 952 857 403

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sundays.

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

Sushi Katsura

under €25

€25 – €40

the lighthouse), Marbella. Tel: 952 776 323

::: SEAFOOD :::

cervecería ostrería santiago

€40 – €60

€60 plus

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paseo Marítimo, 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 078

::: SPANISH ::: Bahía

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. del Marzo, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 078

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

El Barlovento

beach club restaurante grill

Open from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 790 370

Open every day for lunch. Hotel Fuerte, Castillo de San Luis s/n and Hotel Fuerte Miramar Spa, Plaza José Luque Manzano s/n, Marbella. Tel: 902 343 410

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

Wasabi

Tai Pan

Wok Away

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 907 304

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 1pm to 11pm and Sunday and Monday from 6pm to 11pm. C/ Las Violetas, Local 7, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 813 598

Wok Buffet

Restaurante La Marina

Casa Fernando

Ta-kumi

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. El Pilar, 22, Estepona. Tel: 952 887 092

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

Open from Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Avda. del Mediterráneo s/n, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 853 344

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

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch 1-4pm and dinner from 8pm-midnight. Ctra de Cádiz, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

Marisquería La Pesquera

Hacienda

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

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

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

Thai Gallery Open seven days a week for dinner from 8pm. CN-340, km.175, Edif. Rimesa, Bajos, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 392

Thai Style Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Playas del Duque s/n. Edif. Gaviotas IV, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 813 675

tHapa thai

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

Wok Wang Open every day for lunch and dinner. C/ Camilo José Cela, C.C. Plaza del Mar, planta 0, local 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 925 478

::: SCANDINAVIAN ::: Aloha restaurant

Open every evening for dinner from 6pm to 11.30pm. Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 811 285

Skandies Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm.

Closed Mondays. Avda. Antonio Belón, 26 (behind

La fishita

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

Santiago

Casa de la era Open every evening for dinner. Ctra. de Ojén, km 0.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 625

El Portalón

La máquina Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday.

At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

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Tel: 952 909 990

La Meridiana del alabardero Open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays. Camino de la Cruz, Marbella. Tel: 952 776 190

la moraga Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 448

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

La Taberna del Alabardero

street between bullring and Parador). Tel: 952 190 291

MULTICINES MEDITERRÁNEO

Mijas Costa, Málaga. Tel: 951 773 523

Mijas. Tel: 952 663 738

CLUB DEl SOL

Vila do grove

PALACIO DE LA PAZ

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

C/ Las Malvas, Edif. On Line, Local 2, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 813 415

Recinto Ferial. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 589 349

Tennis /paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

TEATRO ALAMEDA

Dynamic training centre

Calle Córdoba 9, Málaga. Tel: 952 213 412

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

TEATRO CERVANTES

FITNESS CENTRE NEW STYLE

Ramos Marín, 199, Málaga. Tel: 952 224 109

Amapolas, s/n Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 916

loving hut

TEATRO CIUDAD DE MARBELLA

Fuerte Gym

Open daily from 10.30am to 11.30pm. Avda. Miguel Cano 11, Marbella. Tel: 951 245 889

Plaza Ramón Martínez, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 159

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

TEATRO SALON VARIETES

GIMNASIO ESTADIO

Emancipación 30. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 474 542

VERACRUZ CINES

Trav. Huerta de los Cristales, Marbella.

Tel: 952 828 217

::: VEGETARIAN :::

CINEMAS & THEATRES

Veracruz. Estepona. Tel: 952 800 056

HAPPY DIVER’S CLUB

Open everyday for lunch and dinner except Monday. San Pedro Playa, Urb. Castiglone. Tel: 952 785 138. Also at Ctra. de Ronda, km. 167, San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 265

AUDITORIO MUNICIPAL MIJAS

YELMO CINEPLEX

Atalaya Park Hotel, Marbella. Tel: 609 571 920

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

Plaza Mayor. Tel: 902 220 922

HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

Mesón el adobe

AUDITORIO PARQUE DE LA CONSTITUCIÓN

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

GYMS & SPORTS CLUBS

CN340, Km77,5. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

KRAV MAGA SELF-DEFENCE CENTRE At Hotel Pyr, Puerto Banús. Tel: 655 689 455

ALHAMAR GYM

MANOLO SANTANA RACQUETS CLUB

Marbella. Tel: 952 825 035

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

Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella. Tel: 952 778 580

CENTRO CULTURAL EL INGENIO

ATENAS

MARBELLA GUN & COUNTRY CLUB

mi taberna

Garcia Morato, s/n. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 968

Barquilla 1. Marbella. Tel: 952 776 240

Monda. Tel: 952 112 161

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

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

CINESA LA CAÑADA

AZTEC COUNTRY CLUB

MARBELLA SPORT

La Cañada. Marbella. Tel: 902 333 231

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa. Tel: 952 934 477

Km 171.5. San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

taberna del volapié

cines gran marbella

CENTRO DEPORTIVO EL FUERTE

MULTI SPORT

Open daily from 11.30am to midnight. C/ Ramón Areces, Cjto. Marina Banús, Blq. 3-4, Local 7, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 542 820

Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 810 077

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

Avda. Picasso 27. San Pedro. Tel: 952 782 801

cinesur

CENTRO DE YOGA Y SALUD INTEGRAL

New Concept Training

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

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

Tragabuches

MULTICINES ALFIL

CENTRO PLAZA GYM

Monte Paraíso Country Club, Camino de Camoján s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 843

Open from Tuesday to Sunday for both lunch and dinner. C/ José Aparacio, 1, Ronda (pedestrian

Avda. Camilo José Cela, s/n. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 800 056

Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 074

02 CENTRO WELLNESS

Cerrado del águila

Plaza del Mar. Marbella. Tel: 952 900 420

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays.

Avda. La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3, Marbella. Tel. 600 003 144

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THE GUIDE P-E SPORTS CLUB

Ages 3-18. Ricmar. Tel: 952 839 645

Monseñor Rodrigo Bocanegra

Tel: 952 934 477

Urb. Parcelas del Golf, Aloha Gardens, N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 357

Colegio Alemán

Ages 3-16. Marbella. Tel: 952 770 077

bel air tennis and paddel club

Ages 3-18. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 417

Performing Arts Academy

Urb. Bel-Air, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 221

qi sport

Colegio Las Chapas

Ages 3-18. Marbella. Tel: 952 906 865

Club deL Sol

Urb. La Alzambra, Marbella. Tel: 952 907 090

Peter Pan School

SATURNIA REGNA

Ages 5–18, girls school. Elviria.

Tel: 952 831 616

Tennis/paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

Marbella Tel: 952 761 475, Elviria. Tel: 952 834 835

Colegio San José Guadalmina

SEVEN STARS SCHOOL

Tel: 952 883 858 Estepona. Tel: 952 800 148

Ages 0-3. Bilingual nursery. San Pedro.

Tel: 952 782 051 Benalmádena.

Tel: 952 562 103

Tai Chi & yoga. Pasaje Estrecho, Estepona.

Tel: 952 923 055

Dolphin Nursery

Saint George’s School

Hotel Don Carlos, Avda. Zurita, CN340, km 192.

Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

Ages 6 months-5 years. San Pedro.

Tel: 952 799 563

Ages 2-8. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 606

Club Internacional de Tennis

SPORTCLUB ROUTE 66

Sotogrande International School

Ctra. Mijas, 1.5km. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 461 648

Ecos College

Ages 2–18. Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 902

Ctra. Cádiz, km 173. Marbella.

Tel: 952 813 341

SPORTING CLUB ATALAYA PARK HOTEL

Ages 1–18. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 027

St. Javier’s International School

Club Madroñal

CN340, Km 168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 888 212

English InteRnational College

Ages 1-7. Marbella. Tel: 952 823 457

Benahavís. Tel: 617 647 223

TICKET-TO-RIDE

Ages 3–18. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 058/9

Club Nueva Alcántara

Cristamar, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 905 082

Hijas de María Auxiliadora

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School

Vitality studio

Ages 3-12. Marbella. Tel: 952 771 396

Ages 4-16. Tel: 952 900 453

Hofsaess tennis academy

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 902 362

III language schools

Sunny View School

sChools

Ages 2–18. Torremolinos. Tel: 952 383 164

Monte Elviria (next to German School).

Tel: 952 835 812

Ages 3-18. Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 133

San Pedro. Tel: 952 778 492 Marbella. Tel: 952 822 191 Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 908 558 Estepona. Tel: 952 794 059

Angela’s School

Inlingua Language School

Ages 6-14. Marbella. Tel: 952 823 042

All ages. Marbella. T: 952 774 942

british school of marbella

Club de tenis don carlos

San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

Swans international school el capricho

Lew Hoads Tennis Club

Ages 3–10. Marbella. Tel: 952 773 248

Manolo Santana Racquets Club

Swans international school Sierra blanca

Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella. Tel: 952 778 580

the InteRnational SCHOOL of ESTEPONA

Ages 11–18. Marbella. Tel: 952 902 755

Avda. El Fuerte, Marbella. Tel: 659 677 539

TLC Tutorial College

marbella playa tenIs

Ages 2-12. Estepona.

Tel: 952 884 789

Ages 13-18. Calahonda. Tel: 952 933 249

CN340, km 189, Marbella. Tel: 657 619 630

wendy kindergarten

Miraflores Tennis Club

Laude San pedro international college

Ages 4 months - 5 years. Marbella.

Tel: 952 772 910

Urb. Miraflores, Km 199. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 932 006

Childrens placE Bilingual nursery

Ages 2–18. San Pedro. Tel: 952 799 900

Puente Romano TEnnis club

Atalaya, Estepona. Tel: 952 928 444

Ages 4-18. Atalaya Park, Estepona.

Tel: 952 784 923

TENNIS CLUBS Aztec Country Club

royal tennis club marbella

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa.

El Rosario, Marbella. Tel: 952 837 651

Aloha College

Ages 18 months-8. Marbella. Tel: 952 779 264

Calahonda International College Ages 3-18. Tel: 952 930 080

Calpe School Ages 2 1/2–11. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 029

Colegio Alborán

Mayfair Academy

Ctra. de Mijas, Km 3,5. Mijas. Tel: 952 474 858

Marbella hill tennis club

Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

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pets THE GUIDE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

RUBY THE JACK RUSSELL IS PET SLIMMER OF THE YEAR IN THE UK

New Dog Park

in San Pedro

Marbella has a brand new dog park, measuring over 4,500m2, in the verdant Parque de los Tres Jardines in San Pedro. The park comprises exercise and play areas, as well as a ‘poop and pee’ zone. Owners still have to collect their pets’ waste, however, as otherwise, they risk facing fines of between €75 and €600. A similar park was opened in the Nagüeles area earlier this year, measuring an impressive 10,500m2.

From January onwards, meanwhile, three beaches will be open to pooches, in the areas of Las Chapas, Marbella and San Pedro. This is welcome news indeed for those who love to enjoy the Great Outdoors alongside their trusty pet.

atching W s i Y g o New Evidence Emerges

! ou

You rD

A once portly Jack Russell called Ruby showed off her lean, trim physique after being crowned Pet Slimmer of the Year. Ruby lost over 3 kilos thanks to a strict nutritional and exercise regime run by UK animal charity, PSDA. The portly pooch, a former rescue dog, had packed on the pounds after her family chose to pamper her with too many treats. Past winners of the competition have included Prince, a ginger and white cat who lost 11 per cent of its body weight, going from fat to fit in just a few months, under a carefully controlled regime. Obesity is a major factor that cuts the lifespan of our beloved pets so if your dog or cat is rocking one too many love handles, see your vet about putting them on a sound diet programme.

Especially in the case of cats, crash dieting is extremely dangerous, since it can cause great harm to the liver. Little by little does the trick, as does plenty of exercise in the fresh air.

A recent study published in the journal, PLOS One, has revealed that dogs are keen observers of human emotion and behaviour.

Canines are not only tuned in to how we deal with them, but also to how we interact with other people. The study involved dogs watching a man request cornflakes from two different women. Both women acceded, yet the man displayed disgust at one of the cornflakes, and delight at the other. The dogs then almost universally approached the woman holding the ‘yummy’ cornflakes, thereby indicating that pooches do glean vital information from our expressions and words and use this information to their advantage. In another study, it was observed that dogs were more attracted to people crying than to those who talked or sang softly, soothing the suffering individual with licks, nuzzles and sniffs. Who can doubt that dogs are man’s best friend?

SITE NEW WEBTER FOR POINARY CLINIC VETERIN ELLA Pointer Vet IN MARB

r of ers, Founde launch of Dr. Andre Ev nounce the n a to d u use, ro p is h is easy to Marbella, ebsite, whic w ive. w at e n rm d n fo his bra highly in d n a d e gn si de latest news beautifully thing from ry ve e dy d n fi well as han Clients will e month, as th ns f io o t at n in ie urs, vacc to a pat opening ho n o n io . at tc inform training, e d cats, dog for dogs an om .c rmarbella www.pointe

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THE GUIDE what’s on Until March 3 ART – MARBELLA

Sol de invierno is the title of a colourful exhibition featuring original watercolour paintings (figurative and abstract) by Roger Thomas Cummiskey and Enrique Agusti Lafuente. At Galería Restaurante Lucía. Open from Monday to Friday from 12pm to 9pm. www-aia-artgroup.com

ART – MARBELLA

El Campanario Golf & Country House will be holding a joint exhibition by artists John Tunstall, Monica de Carlo, Nadège, Sara FitzGerald and Uriel Calierno. Artworks range from abstract to figurative with a modern twist. www.elcampanarioresort.com

EVENTS CONTINUED FROM January Until February 2 ART – MARBELLA

The Centro Cultural Cortijo de Miraflores presents photographs of Jon Cocteau during his stay in Marbella, as well as manuscripts and drawings created by the famous poet, playwright and filmmaker. Visiting times are from 9am to 2pm and 7pm to 9:30pm.

Tel: 952 902 714.

Until February 9 ART – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso de Málaga presents an exhibition by Swedish abstract artist, Hilma af Klint. The artist is considered to have been way ahead of her time, since she aimed to depict a reality beyond the visible. www.museopicassomalaga.org

Until February 10 ART – MIJAS

Dutch Artist, Xandra de Vos, presents her latest collection of art work. Intense colours and intuitive expressionism reflect her feelings and emotions. From 9am to 7pm at the Folk Museum of Mijas. www.mijas.es

ART – MIJAS

Juan Cortés, nature lover and photographer, presents his latest exhibition of photographs at the Patio de las Fuentes of the Mijas Town Hall. www.mijas.es

Until February 20 ART – MARBELLA

The Polígono Art Gallery presents Entre Dos Mundos, an exhibition featuring two very different styles of work by Argentinean artist, Marcos Bontempo. Horses command Bontempo’s most emotionally charged sketches and drawings, which often bear surprising surrealist touches. www.poligonogallery.com

Until February 23 ART – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso Málaga celebrates its 10th anniversary with a spectacular exhibition of works by artists the like of Cézanne, Courbet, Degas, Gris, Matisse, Rodin and more. www.museopicassomalaga.org

Until March 10 ART – Mijas

Venta Jinete in Mijas presents a joint exhibition of paintings by artists from the Artistas Eclécticos group. www.artistaseclecticos.com

Until March 16 ART – MÁLAGA

The Contemporary Art Centre in Málaga presents an array paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos and drawings by Kati Heck, a renowned German painter who seeks to find beauty in even the most decadent and decayed subjects. www.cacmalaga.org

NEW AND REGULAR EVENTS Monthly on different days AMERICAN CLUB – MARBELLA

The American Club Costa del Sol Chapter meets monthly for excursions, sports and social events. Tel: 952 772 789. www.americanclubcostadelsol.com

AMIGOS DE LA CULTURA – COSTA DEL SOL

Meets at different times and places for lunches, lectures, concerts, ballet, theatre, opera, etc. Further information, Tel: 669 445 809. smartkidsmarbella@gmail.com

TOASTMASTERS – MARBELLA

The Achievers Toastmasters Club Marbella meets every week at Aloha Gardens, Nueva Andalucía to practise public speaking skills. Toastmasters is the world’s leading organisation for public speaking and leadership skills, with over 13,000 clubs worldwide. For further information, contact Maria on Tel: 603 133 805 or Percy on Tel: 646 533 112. www.toastmastersmarbella.com

Every Monday Yoga – sotogrande

Gyn Tonic Pilates studios will be holding yoga classes at 7:30 pm. www.lisamariemethod.com

SALSA CLASSES – MARBELLA

Learn how to shake your hips like a true Latino at El Campanario, under the guiding hand of professional dancer, Rafa. At 7:30pm.

Prior booking is necessary. Tel: 952 904 233. www.elcampanariogolf.com

Every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday LANGUAGE WORKSHOPS – MIJAS PUEBLO

Spanish/English and English/Spanish conversation with fellow native speakers, 10:30am to 12pm and 6:30pm to 8pm.

Mondays in La Cala, Tuesdays in Mijas Village and Thursdays in Las Lagunas.

At the Pensioner’s Day Centres. Further information on meeting points, Tel: 952 589 010. www.mijas.es

Every Monday and Wednesday YOGA – MARBELLA

Lori Sjollema teaches Gentle Hatha Flow yoga on Mondays at 10:30am and Intermediate Vinyasa Flow on Wednesdays at 10:30am at the Manolo Santana Racquets Club.

Tel: 639 845 285.

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE – MARBELLA

Meets 3-5pm monthly with NAFAS demonstrators at El Campanario Golf & Country Club. Further information from Marilyn Pemberton, Tel: 952 928 197.

Every Tuesday and Thursday ART CLASSES – MARBELLA

Talented artist, Ricardo Alario, teaches budding artists to paint and draw using oils, acrylics, water colours, etc. Tel: 952 859 671. www.ricardoalario.com

BOWLS – MIJAS

The Mijas Bowls Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday at 1:30pm and on Sunday at 10am.

Games take place at the Mijas Bowls club, situated behind the Peugeot garage on the Mijas-Fuengirola road. Tel: 952 588 321.

Every Wednesday FLAMENCO – MIJAS

Every Wednesday at 12pm, a dazzling flamenco show takes place at the Plaza Virgen de la Peña in Mijas Pueblo. www.mijas.es

Integral Psychotherapist Gabriella Kortsch helps you with everything from relationship breakdowns to depression, poor communication with loved ones or financial stress, at her weekly group meetings, which go from 7:30pm to 9pm. For information on locations, info@advancedpersonaltherapy.com

MARTIAL ARTS – MARBELLA

Every Monday to Friday CERAMIC CLASSES – MARBELLA

SALSA – MARBELLA

Hone your craft in ceramics or start at the very beginning, with daily classes at Totem Ceramics. Tel: 952 887 364. www.totemceramics.com

Every Tuesday JIVE – ESTEPONA

Learn to dance and feel confident on the dance floor at the three-hour jive dance sessions led by Colin and his team from Jive Spain at TikiTano restaurant. People of all ages attend every week and you don’t have to bring a partner or reserve a space. Just come along and join the fun! Tickets cost €10 per person.

For precise times, www.jivespain.com

Every first Tuesday of the month INTERNET – MARBELLA

Café Ideas is an informative event that takes place from 9:15am to 11am at the Hotel Meliá Banús, aimed at entrepreneurs who would like to learn more about how the Internet and online networking can grow their business.

Entrance costs €15. To reserve your spot, Tel: 952 902 961. info@studioideas.es

Every Second Tuesday of the Month JAZZ – ESTEPONA

The Coast’s Jazz Appreciation Society meets at Benavista Country Club at 8pm. Classic videos followed by a live jazz performance then dinner.

To book, Tel: 952 888 106. Further information from Brian Parker, Tel: 669 504 942.

Every Third Tuesday of the Month FLORAL ART CLUB – ESTEPONA

Taekwondo expert Justin Menchen, who studied and received First Dan in Los Angeles (from Master Keith Jones) teaches Taekwondo to children and adults, from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at MGM gym. Further information, Tel: 666 756 692. www.marbellataekwondo.com

If you’re feeling the Latino vibe, brush up on your salsa moves at Buddha Bar Marbella’s special salsa nights (featuring the Nicolás Valiente Dance Academy), which take place every Wednesday at 10:30pm.

Tel: 655 480 748.

Every first Wednesday of the month CULTURE AND COCKTAIL – MARBELLA

The Association of Art and Culture Marbella holds a monthly cocktail at Magna Café, Magna Marbella Golf, from 8pm-10pm. Tel: 627 833 262. www.artandculturemarbella.com

Every Wednesday and Thursday CINE CLUB – MARBELLA

Cine Club Buñuel presents films in their original language at the Marbella Instituto Río Verde at 8pm and 10:15pm. Tel: 952 774 638.

Every Wednesday and Saturday FOOTBALL – FUENGIROLA

Every Wednesday afternoon at 5pm and Saturday morning at 10am, the Field of Dreams Football School teaches kids aged three upwards to learn or hone their skills at football.

Featuring English UEFA-trained coaches. www.facebook.com/Fieldofdreamsfootballclub

Every Thursday NETWORKING – MARBELLA

The Marbella Business Group holds its weekly breakfast meeting, which features presentations, discussions and introductions of new members. At 8am at the Hotel Senator in Marbella. To become a member, www.marbellabusinessgroup.com

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JAZZ – MARBELLA

Enjoy magnificent jazz music by Agustín Carrillo, Oliver Lepinat and Markus Schneider at Trocadero Arena restaurant from 10pm onwards. Tel: 952 865 579. www.trocaderoarena.com

Every first Friday of the Month CINE CLUB – ESTEPONA

Top films shown weekly in Spanish or original soundtrack at Padre Manuel Cultural Centre, 9pm. Tel: 952 802 002. www.estepona.es

Every last Friday of the Month COFFEE MORNING – ESTEPONA

ADANA animal rescue charity coffee morning at Plaza Manilva (outside Longman’s Bookshop) 11am – 2pm. Kennels open 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday and 10am – 2pm Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Further information, Tel: 952 797 405/ 606 274 206. www.adana-estepona.com

BUSINESS LUNCH – MARBELLA

Marbella Business Institute invitation-only lunch club for local and visiting Business people, active and retired. To apply, see www.marbellabusinst.com

Every Saturday MARKETS – PUERTO BANÚS

Head for the Puerto Banús bullring every Saturday for a fun street market featuring everything from clothing right through to music, accessories and home ware. Starts at 9am and ends at 2pm. www.marbella.es

ART – MARBELLA

Enjoy a beautiful art exhibition and art sale from 6pm to 11:30pm at Plaza de la Encarnación, Marbella. The event, organised by the COART Association in conjunction with the Marbella Town Hall, brings local artists and art buyers together in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. For further information, asociacioncoart@gmail.com

ORGANIC FRUIT AND VEG MARKET – MARBELLA

If healthy, pesticide-free fruit and veg are your thing, don’t miss out on this hip market. At the Paseo de la Alameda from 10am to 2pm every Saturday. www.marbella.es

YANELA BROOKS – ESTEPONA

Marbella’s Diva of Disco and Soul, Yanela Brooks, performs at La Cabaña del Mar Beach Club at the Hotel Kempinski Bahía Estpona.

Enjoy a three-course dinner while Yanela belts out your favourite pop and R ‘n B hits. From 8pm to 1am. www.kempinski.com

Every second Saturday of the month ECOLOGICAL MARKET – ELVIRIA The Guadalhorce Ecological Association h old an organic fruit and vegetable market in front of the Supersol in Elviria. www.guadalhorceecologico.es

Every Sunday FLEA MARKET – MIJAS

The Costa del Sol Race Course hosts a flea market every Sunday from 9am to 2pm.

Every First Sunday of the month OPEN DAY – MIJAS

PAD animal shelter, Cerros del Águila, welcomes visitors from 12pm-3pm. Further information, Tel: 952 486 084. www.padcatsanddogs.org

Thursday February 6 to Monday February 10 GREASE – MÁLAGA

The Teatro Cervantes de Málaga presents Grease: The Musical, directed by Manu Guix and featuring talented singers Javier Arroyo, Marta Arteta, Albert Martínez and more. The show stars on Thursday at 9pm, Friday and Saturday at 6pm and 9:30pm, Sunday at 5pm and 8:30pm and Monday at 9pm. www.teatrocervantes.com

Friday February 7 to Saturday February 8 HEART CONGRESS – MARBELLA

The Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella will be hosting the 11th Congress of Cardiac Arrhythmias, at 10am on Friday and 3pm on Saturday. www.marbellacongresos.com

Saturday February 8 MUSIC THERAPY – MARBELLA

Discover the power of music to heal at a dedicated music therapy workshop, to be held at the Clínica Buchinger. No previous musical knowledge is required; just be ready to share, enjoy, learn and widen your understanding.

Tel: 952 764 307. www.buchinger-wilhelmi.es

Friday February 14 SKIING – SIERRA NEVADA

Saturday February 15 KRAV MAGA – PUERTO BANÚS

Ismo Ivakko, Krav Maga trainer, will be holding a special class to introduce Krav Maga to women, from 12pm to 2:30pm at the Hotel Pyr. Afterwards there will be an open course from 3pm to 6pm for €30 per person. Krav Maga is a self-defence system used by the Israeli forces and is useful for anyone who would like to know how to defend themselves in a tense situation. Tel: 655 689 455.

Flower Show 2013. www.facebook.com/ esteponafloralartclub

Wednesday February 19, Thursday February 20 and Friday February 21 MUSIC – ESTEPONA, MÁLAGA AND FUENGIROLA

Málaga Talento will be presenting a series of concerts throughout the year. This month, aficionados can enjoy a piano concert by Elena Blagulyak on Wednesday February 19 at the Centro Cultural Padre Manuel in Estepona, Thursday February 20 at Cajamar in Málaga and Friday February 21 at the Casa de Cultura de Fuengirola. The concerts will start at 8pm. www.malagatalento.com

The Marbella Ski club will be celebrating Scandinavian Day at Sierra Nevada in Granada.

The event will feature live music, DJs, traditional foods and customs and of course, plenty of skiing. www.marbellaskiclub.com

Thursday February 20 Wine tasting – San pedro

Friday February 14 to Saturday February 15 TANGO– NERJA and MIJAS

Friday February 21 PIANO – BENALMÁDENA

Producciones Lastra presents two new tango shows: Pasión Tango, which will be taking place at the Centro Cultural Villa de Nerja on February 14 and A Puro Tango, at the Teatro Las Lagunas de Mijas on February 15. Tickets for the Nerja show can be purchased on Tel: 676 929 479 and for the Mijas show on Tel: 952 472 596.

Saturday February 15 Love songs – PUERTO BANÚS

Wave Music Café in Puerto Banús presents a concert of love songs, performed by various artists. The €5 entrance fee goes to charity.

Tuesday February 18 FLOWERS – ESTEPONA

The Estepona Floral Art Club will be holding its next flower demonstration at TikiTano restaurant at 3:15pm. The demonstrator will be Stephen McDonnell, NAFAS Area Demonstrator from Brighton, winner of the RHS Chelsea

C’est La Vie restaurant will be holding a winetasing dinner with a speech by a sommelier.

Tel: 952 783 394.

Monday February 24 to Sunday March 2 TENNIS – MARBELLA

The Royal Tennis Club Marbella Seniors Championship will be taking place at the Royal Tennis Club of Marbella. The week-long event will feature adrenalin-charged singles, doubles and mixed doubles matches, competed in by players aged 35 to 85. www.itftennis.com

Friday February 28 to Sunday March 2 OPERA – MÁLAGA

Giuseppe Verdi’s Il Trovatore will fill the Teatro Cervantes with passion and music, performed by the Málaga Opera Chorus and the Philharmonic Orchestra of Málaga. The show starts at 7pm. www.teatrocervantes.com

Saturday March 1 opera – san pedro

Enjoy a fine opera brunch while listening to the powerful voice of tenor, Fernando Páez, at C’est La Vie restaurant. Tel: 952 783 394.

Renowned pianist, Carmelo Lazcano, will be playing music by Chopin at the Castillo Bil-Bil at 8:30pm. www.benalmadena.es

Saturday February 22 SKIING – MIJAS TO ANDORRA

The Youth Council in Mijas is organising a fun skiing trip from February 22 to March 2, in Andorra. Whether you are a beginner or you’d like to hone your skill, this trip is ideal for you.

Register now at the Las Lagunas Theatre. www.mijas.es

Sunday February 23 CHILDREN’S THEATRE – MÁLAGA

The Teatro Cervantes de Málaga presents Héroes y Princesas: El Musical, a show which brings together Disney’s most famous characters, including Beauty and the Beast, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Peter Pan, Snow White and more. The show starts at 12pm. www.teatroechegaray.com

Saturday March 1 ANTONIO OROZCO – MÁLAGA

Antonio Orozco’s is one of Spain’s most famous pop idols and a popular judge on the Spanish version of hit television programme, The Voice. On March 1 at 10pm, he will be belting out his latest hits at the M.A.C. Palacio de Ferias. Tickets are available on www.nvivo.es

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THE GUIDE stars

www.russellgrant.com

Russell Grant’s Monthly Horoscope February 2014

Your boss will bear down hard during the second week of February.

Nothing you do or say will satisfy their demands. Try not to take their nasty behaviour personally.

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th

Joint finances will be a source of strain in the opening days of the month. Mercury retrograde will cause people to go back on their promises or spend money they don’t have. Try to be patient and calm when working through these problems. Your boss will bear down hard during the second week of February. Nothing you do or say will satisfy their demands. Try not to take their nasty behaviour personally.

It will be difficult to strike a balance between your personal and professional lives on Valentine’s Day. You may have to postpone a romantic evening for another time. You’ll get a glowing recommendation from a teacher or community leader during the third week of the month. You’ll have a great opportunity to make money from creative endeavours during the final week of the month. Be conservative when setting work deadlines as February turns to March.

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ARIES [21 MAR - 20 APR]

You may have to revise a project during the first week of February, when Mercury goes retrograde. Don’t make any permanent changes yet, as the powers that be haven’t decided what the finished product should look like. It won’t be possible to attend an expensive social event toward mid-month, due to budget constraints. You can have fun without spending lots of money. Valentine’s Day will be quite romantic, but beware of pushing things on the sexual front with someone new. You’ll have a fantastic relationship breakthrough in the second half of February, when you and your partner will work together to meet a mutual goal. Pay careful attention to your dreams during the third week of February, as they could inspire a successful creative endeavour. Don’t buy into a relative’s get rich quick schemes at the end of the month. Keep your hard earned cash safe in the bank, where it might earn a little interest.

TAURUS [21 APR - 21 MAY]

You might have to reverse a decision concerning a child in early February.

Mercury retrograde will force you to change plans due to altered schedules or an unforeseen emergency. Try to be as flexible as possible. Work takes a toll on romance during the second week of the month.

Late nights at the office are a strong possibility. Don’t get let your family have too much influence on your love life, especially on Valentine’s Day. You need to be with the person who makes you happy. A plum work assignment will be handed to you mid-February; this is your chance to shine. Your reputation will get another boost when you donate time, money and resources to a charitable organisation. Don’t make promises you can’t keep towards the end of February, or you could turn an influential person against you. Be as conservative as possible when giving estimates during the final days of the month.

GEMINI [22 MAY - 21 JUNE]

Avoid making serious decisions about household matters in early February.

Mercury retrograde will cause all sorts of unforeseen circumstances. Feel free to renew a lease, but avoid moving to a permanent residence until March.

You won’t be happy with a test result or legal decision; you may have to cut your losses and move on. Resist the urge to put pressure on a prospective partner on Valentine’s Day; it’s best to keep things light and friendly.

You’ll start to see exciting movement on the romantic front during the second week of February, when the object of your affection warms to your charms. You’ll assume a more prominent role at work later in the month, when an authority figure delegates an important creative assignment to you. Resist the urge to go over budget. The more frugal you are in late February, the happier everyone will be. Just because other groups are breaking the bank doesn’t mean you need to follow suit.

CANCER [22 JUN - 23 JULY]

Don’t sign any contracts this month, as Mercury retrograde will complicate all formal agreements. If you commit to an arrangement, it will cost you more time and money than you imagined.

It’s better to keep things informal at this stage of the game. Mixing romance with finance isn’t the best of ideas this February, either. Keep your money separate from that of your lover, or an angry power struggle will ensue.

Valentine’s Day will bring an ethical question to the forefront. You need to decide whether you can maintain

a partnership with someone whose values are different from yours. If the two of you can reach a compromise, your relationship will fare much better during the second half of February. Ask a teacher, community leader, or spiritual guide to write you a letter of recommendation in late February. Don’t press your luck with an authority figure towards the end of the month.

LEO [24 JULY - 23 AUG]

Go over your credit card statements and checking account with a fine tooth comb. Mercury retrograde will create financial confusion early in the month. An important career decision will affect an intimate relationship. Have a serious talk with your best friend, business partner or lover during the second week of February. Valentine’s Day will be fairly frustrating if you let your family comment on your choice of romantic partner. It’s probably best to keep this aspect of your life a secret from nosy relatives.

Exciting news will arrive mid-month, allowing you to move forward with a partnership venture. A gift, inheritance, or dividend will arrive in the second half of February, allowing you to take a glamorous trip. Someone will tell you a sob story during the last week of the month, hoping you will take pity on them. Remain firm and don’t break the rules. This scam artist isn’t worth the trouble.

VIRGO [24 AUG - 23 SEPT]

You’ll be easily misunderstood this February, due to your ruling planet’s retrograde motion. It may be necessary to explain your motives several times. Try not to take all the scepticism personally. If you’re not satisfied with a medical diagnosis, get a second opinion.

There may be additional factors that are contributing to a health problem. Valentine’s Day will spark a serious conversation about the future of a relationship. Give careful thought to what kind of partnership you want.

Salary negotiations are highly favoured for mid-February; push hard for the high end of the scale. Doing something special for your best friend, business partner, or lover will prove rewarding during the second half of February.

You alone will have the power to make a dream come true. A friend will break their promise during the final days of the month. It may be time to decide whether this relationship is worth your while.

LIBRA [24 SEPT - 23 OCT]

You could be put on a waiting list or even rejected from a social, cultural, or educational institution. Don’t worry.

Nothing is set in stone when Mercury is retrograde. Things will straighten themselves out next month, when the planet of communication goes direct.

Finance and romance will not mix in the first half of February; don’t lend or borrow money during this phase.

Valentine’s Day may tempt you into steering a friendship into romantic waters. You’re better off keeping things platonic. If you’re looking for love, you could find it while exercising during the second half of February.

Sweaty is definitely sexy. A spa treatment will relieve stress towards the end of the month. Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or pedicure. Don’t share personal stories about your best friend or lover during the final days of February. Don’t discuss private matters or raise intimate emotional issues in public. You never know who will be listening.

SCORPIO [24 OCT - 22 NOV]

Neither a borrower nor a lender be this February. Mercury retrograde blurs boundaries and creates confusion. The last

thing you need is for a friendship to fall apart because a cherished item goes missing. It will be difficult to express your feelings about an upsetting family matter. Relatives aren’t willing to hear the hard truth about health problems. Valentine’s Day may tempt you into making a grand declaration of love. You’re better off keeping things private and romantic, as your partner won’t enjoy being put on the spot. Working behind the scenes will be fulfilling during the second half of February. This is your big chance to make a good impression on an executive. A tender encounter during the third week of February will fill your heart with joy. Trust your instincts with regard to lovemaking. You’ll have to work with a temperamental expert at the end of the month. Grin and bear it.

SAGITTARIUS [23 NOV - 21 DEC]

A raise or promotion could be stalled this month thanks to Mercury going retrograde. Put your expectations on hold until March, when the tide will turn in your favour. Your inner critic will prompt you to stay silent in a public forum during the first half of February. Although you hate pretending to go along with a bad plan, it’s probably the best course of action right now. Valentine’s Day could find you debating an ethical matter. Try not to pass judgment on a lover who was raised with very different beliefs from yours. A friend will offer practical help with a repair job in the second half of the month. Accept this assistance with a grateful and happy heart. You could find a wonderful temporary residence towards the end of February. Seek a place near a pond, lake, or river. Someone will try to buy your affection at the end of the month. Beware.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC - 20 JAN]

Misunderstandings with colleagues will abound, starting in early February.

Mercury will be retrograde, causing people to say one thing and do another. Take these discrepancies with a dose of salt. A socially prominent person will disapprove of your decision in the first half of February.

You won’t appreciate being judged by someone who has no experience with such matters. Valentine’s Day will be charged with sexual energy. Don’t be surprised when a friend makes a pass at you. Your boss will give you a lucrative work assignment in the second half of February. If you do a good job with this project, you’ll get a raise, promotion, or both. Good news regarding a sibling, cousin or neighbour will be music to your ears as the month draws to a close. Be ready to comfort your best friend or lover during the final days of February, when an authority figure makes an unfair decision.

PISCES [20 FEB - 20 MAR]

You’ll have to revise a partnership arrangement in the early days of February. Mercury retrograde will force you to become as flexible as possible with setting schedules and trading duties. A forbidding teacher will shatter your confidence during the first half of the month. Be kind to yourself during this ultrasensitive period. You might have to work on Valentine’s Day, but don’t let that derail your love life. Schedule a candlelit dinner the next day, when you’ll be able to devote all your time and attention to your amour.

Lovemaking will be passionate and frenzied throughout the second half of the month. Word of your psychic abilities will spread during the third week of February.

Don’t mix business with pleasure during the closing days of the month, or you could lose your hard earned money.

You shouldn’t have to buy expensive gifts to prove your worth, especially in the early stages of a relationship.

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THE GUIDE family

Design Your Children’s Clothing at

MOLOLA!

If you’re into clothing that says something about your and your child’s personal sense of style, then you will love new fashion-forward website, Molola.es. The latter invites you and your kids to design the outfit of your dreams with just a few clicks, selecting from hundreds of fabrics, embroidered details, prints and colours. Even absolute beginners can learn to feel as terrific as Gaultier as they create utterly unique pieces. The Molola team sews each piece by hand and speedily delivers it to your door. Available in sizes two to XL (adult). i www.molola.es

FAMILY FUN ANCRAA Giant Donkeys Cuddle

a donkey or become a volunteer to help save this humble but threatened animal. CN 340, km 164, Finca los Pajaritos, Estepona.

Tel: 952 790 511 Bioparc Fuengirola Award winning zoo covering Madagascar, Africa and the Far East. C/ Camilo José Cela, 6. Tel: 952 666 301. www.bioparcfuengirola.es Black Box Teatro Dramatic Arts School for all ages. C/ Notario Luis Oliver 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 779 172. www.blackboxteatro.com Born to be Wild Jeep and dolphin eco-tours for the whole family. Open 9am-8pm. Blue Dolphin Beach Club, Estepona Beach. Tel: 639 720 246 Cable Ski Marbella Water ski cable system and pool. Open 11am-9pm (closed Mondays).

Urb. Las Medranas, San Pedro.

Tel: 952 785 579 Camelot Fun play centre in La Cañada with a wealth of games and activities and qualified child minders. Special events include baby and toddler mornings and a baby grow clinic, for mums to be and newborns. Ctra. de Ojén s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 764 766 Crocodile Park Educational park with more then 300 monsters. Pose with baby crocodiles. Open 10am6pm. C/ Cuba, 14, Torremolinos.

Tel: 952 051 782 Danzzas Ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap, theatre craft and hip-hop for kids. Classes at the Manolo Santana Racquets Club and at Plaza Gym. Contact Fiona on Tel: 663 646 040. www.danzzas.com El Refugio del Burrito Donkey sanctuary just 40 minutes north of

Málaga. Open 11am-7pm. Fuente de Piedra, Málaga. Tel: 952 735 513 Flamenco Classes Children aged 5 to 8 can learn to dance flamenco with Isabel Gil, a professional dancer. Classes on Monday and Wednesday at the Nueva Alcántara Tennis Club. Tel: 952 788 315 Funny Beach Kids paradise with go-karts, trampolines, minimotorbikes, mechanical bull.

Open daily. East side of Marbella.

Tel: 952 823 359 Galaxia Versatile and fun play centre for children of all ages, with separate areas indoor and outdoor.

Mega slide, mini planetarium, birthday parties, summer camp.

Life size characters. C.C. Guadalmina, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 885 530

Ice Skating Rink and Indoor Swimming Pool New sports

centre with public ice skating, indoor pool, children’s pool. Avda.

García Lorca, Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 577 050

Inter Marbella Football Academy Football Academy

for boys and girls of all ages, at Estadio Santa Maria in Las Chapas, Marbella. Training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5pm. Tel: 646 427 589. info@intermarbellacf.com Karting Club Málaga Go-kart circuit for kids and adults who feel a need for speed. Open 10ammidnight. Ctra. De Coin, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 581 704 Kids Multi-Sports Club A plethora of sports for children of all ages and abilities, from tennis through to football, cycling and skateboarding. Parties with games, activities and bouncy castles. Urb. Parcelas del Golf, Avda. del Prado,

Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 656 618 712 Kidz Kingdom Fun play centre and birthday party area for kids, with a mini disco. Urb. Bel-Air, CN 340, km 166.2, Estepona.

Tel: 952 925 936

Kidz Kingdom 2 – Space City

Space theamed play centre for daily visits or parties. Life size Barney and Sponge Bob. Urb. El Rosario, CN 340, km 188.5, Marbella.

Tel: 952 839 275

Le Petit Milk & Roses

Pampering sessions for little girls, including manicures and dress-ups.

C/ Estebañez Calderon 6, Marbella.

Tel: 952 859 223 Little Fishes Swimming classes for newborns to 3-year-olds in Marbella, Estepona and Riviera.

Tel: 686 498 561/ 607 875 949. www.littlefishes-spain.com

Little Gem Swimmers

Swimming courses for babies and toddlers in Benalmádena. Contact Emma on Tel: 628 567 129. www.littlegemswimmers.com

Marbella Stage School

Kids can take accredited courses in dance, drama, musical theatre and singing after school on weekdays and all day on Saturdays. Tel: 952 906 865. www.marbellastageschool.com Musical Babes Babies and toddlers aged 6 months to 3 years enjoy singing, playing simple instruments and playing games.

Tel: 952 853 027. Los Jazmines 11, Bajo B, Nueva Alcántara, San Pedro de Alcántara. www.brainwaves-spain.com

NMA The Nelson Music Academy Kids aged 4 to 12 are

introduced to music in its funnest aspects. Classes on Tuesdays

and Thursdays from 5pm to 7pm, Saturdays from 11am to 1pm.

Edif. Jupiter 44, Local 3, C/ Jesús Cautivo, Los Boliches, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 478 416. www.nelsonmusicacademy.com Original Dolphin Safari The original dolphin safari, established in 1969! Daily sailings from Marina Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 71914. www. dolphinsafari.gi Parque La Batería Kids will have fun in this park, built in the civil war era and featuring four replica cannons, underground bunkers and passageways. Urb. Montemar Alto (near the train station), Torremolinos.

Plaza Mayor Family entertainment with multi-screen cinema, bars, restaurants, bowling alley and kids play area. Málaga.

Tel: 952 247 580 Scouting Kids will have fun being a boy or girl scout. The programme followed is the same as that in the UK. Tel: 680 870 270 Sealife Centre See 2 metre long sharks. Touch pools and walkthough glass tunnel. Open daily 10am-6pm. Benálmadena Port.

Tel: 952 560 150 Selwo Adventure Park Over 2,000 animals, 4x4 tours, plus adventure activities. Open 10am9pm. CN340 Km 162.5, Estepona.

Tel: 902 190 482 Selwo Marina Dolphins Exotic birds, penguins and virtual reality shows. Open 10am-6pm. Parque de la Paloma, Benalmádena.

Tel: 902 190 482 Stagecoach Renowned performing arts school for singing, dancing and acting skills. The academy is open to four to 16-year-

olds. Tel: 952 900 453/666 838 213. www.stagecoach.es Steam Train Ride Enjoy a steam train ride crossing the Andalusian mountains with a scenic trip from San Roque to Ronda.

Tel: 952 931 186 Swim Bebé Swim Swimming classes for under 4’s and AquaNatal classes for mums-to-be.

Tel: 617 520 588 Teleférico Benalmádena Cable car to top of Calamorro mountain, falconry, trekking and horseriding.

Arroyo de la Miel. Open 10am-6pm.

Tel: 902 190 482 Tennis Camp Tennis lessons for kids from 4 years on, with professional coaches. Open 10am1pm. Club del Sol, Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595 The Music House Kids learn, grow and have fun making music. Open to children from 2 years on. Edif. San Pedro del Mar, Blq 7, local 12, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 785 515. www.themusichouse.es Tivoli World Biggest amusement park on the Costa del Sol. Open daily from 1pm. Avda. de Tivoli, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 577 016 Trenecito de Marbella Take a relaxing train ride to view the main sights of Marbella. Daily 10am-1pm. Paseo Maritimo.

Tel: 639 765 981 Yaina’s Park Indoor play centre with staff speaking Scandinavian, English and Spanish. Open seven days a week from 10am to 9pm.

Children’s parties, parent’s coffee shop with pool tables, television, food. Avda. Gamonal 4, Edif. Hercules, Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. Tel: 622 005 068

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