Essential Marbella Magazine September 2011

FREE MAGAZINE - COSTA DEL SOL N º148 - SEPTEMBER 2011

essential essential marbella® magazine ISSUE 148 • SEPTEMBER 2011

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

s

ÜBER

URBAN DESIGN

Working Girl

FASHION

& Chic Cars about Town

SLICK CITY

LIVING

Glorious

GWYNETH PALTROW BRING ON

BARCELONA!

WHISTLESTOP

CITY GUIDE

URBAN Living THEVIBE

WHAT’S BUZZING

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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Paseo MarĂ­timo de San Pedro de AlcĂĄntara. Marbella T. 952 789 100 Swipe to like us on Facebook

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DISTRIBUTION COMPANY +34628115996 / 652685667 pedidos@fortunespirits.es www.fortunespirits.es

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Issue 148 • September 2011

S T A F F PUBLISHER AND DIRECTOR

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

GENERAL MANAGER

ANDREA BÖJTI sales@essentialmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR DESIGN & LAYOUT STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com PRINTING DEPÓSITO LEGAL

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INMA AURIOLES KEVIN HORN IAIN BLACKWELL, RUPERT BLUFF, MICHEL CRUZ, ELIZABETH DOBSON, NICK HALL, ANNIE HEESE, CHOLO HURTADO, AJ LINN, JESSICA OCAÑA, ALLAN TEE, RICHARD WHALEY, AMY WILLIAMS FAMOUS, GARY EDWARDS, JOHNNY GATES, NICK HALL, KH PHOTOGRAPHY, GREGKOR PRODUCTION STUDIOS JIMÉNEZ GODOY A. GRÁFICAS, MURCIA D.L. MA-512-99

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

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The Trend

24 Films 26 DVDs 28 Books 30 Music 32 Gadgets 34 Cars: Small-Sized Cars for Urbanites

The Focus

38 Urban Living 46 Gwyneth Paltrow 48 Rupert Bluff: Documenting City Life 50 Urban Myths

The Style

54 Décor: Building the Future 60 Gardening: City Gardening 62 Fashion: Collette Dinnigan Autumn/Winter 2011 Collection 70 Fashion News

The Spa

74 The ageLOC Galvanic Spa System Facial 76 Beauty News 78 City Life or Country Life?

80 Health News 82 Heath Profile: Wizard of Nutrition, Dr. Katz

The Vibe 85 What’s Up and Who’s Who on the Local Social Scene

The Pro

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92 Enterprise 106 Business Profile: Swans School: 40th Year Anniversary 108 Finance: Currency Risk Management

The Leisure 112 Travel: Top Cities of the World 120 Barcelona 126 Hotel: Ricardo Boffill’s W Hotel in Barcelona

The Gourmet 131 Schilo 133 Girasol 134 Food News 136 Wine Feature: Urban Wines

The Guide 138 Listings

The Blog 150 Kids Zone 151 Pet News 152 What’s On in September 154 Your Stars for the Month Ahead

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Ad EssentialWines_Layout 1 2011-01-25 13.48 Sida 1

Mr & Mrs Winemaker Inga Lill & Rickard Enkvist, Gaucin

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words BY IAIN BLACKWELL Having lived in a very dynamic city – Edinburgh – I can relate that it is full-on, fast paced, round-theclock with a never-ending choice of things to do and is a cultural bonanza to boot. Urban living is not without its problems though. Noise, pollution, crime and violence throw up a whole host of neuroses such as stress, insecurity, anxiety, amid physical conditions like COPD, asthma, etc.

In this issue, following on from July’s focus on Resort Living, we take an in-depth look at the modern trend for migrating to cities,

Habiendo vivido en una ciudad dinámica – Edimburgo – os puedo contar que tiene un ritmo, una oferta de actividades interesantes y una cultura apasionantes. La vida en la gran ciudad también tiene sus problemas, sin embargo: el ruido, la polución, el crimen y la violencia nos conduce a estados negativos a través del estrés, la inseguridad y la ansiedad, y también a enfermedades como la obstrucción crónica pulmonar o el asma.

En esta edición, como continuación a la edición de julio sobre la vida en los resort, estudiamos la tendencia actual de emigración masiva a las

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many of which have become metropolises due to the millions of people who have elected to live there with the hope of finding work and a better standard of living. This presents a huge challenge to today’s city-planners and the architects of tomorrow, as we will see in our feature articles on Luxury Urban Living and Building the Future.

We visit some of the world’s top cities, including an emotional trip to Barcelona, which is Spain’s most-visited and most emblematic city, and stopover at the chill-out

ciudades, que se han convertido en unas metrópolis enormes debido a los millones de personas que han decidido vivir en ellas con la esperanza de encontrar un trabajo mejor y un estilo de vida más ameno.

Este hecho presenta un enorme desafío a los que planifican las ciudades y a los arquitectos de las próximas generaciones. Nos adentramos en este tema en nuestros reportajes sobre La Vida Urbana de Lujo y sobre Cómo Planificar el Futuro.

Visitamos algunas de las ciudades más importantes del mundo, como Barcelona, la ciudad española más visitada y emblemática, y descansamos

Pullman Barcelona Skipper. As city commuting is becoming ever more constricted, we check out what today’s urban chic drivers are favouring to ease the process.

Elsewhere, we bring you Urban Myths, Urban Gardening, Urban Wine and even Urban Books.

People-wise, don’t miss our profiles on the multi-talented Gwyneth Paltrow, Collette Dinnigan’s in-demand prêt-à-porter designs for the discerning urban woman and doctor-to-the-stars nutritional whiz, David L. Katz.

More locally, for as we all know, being on the coast is much more about Resort Living, we invite you to savour sensational restaurants Schilo and Girasol in September which is, after all, one of the nicest months on this exclusive part of the planet.

un poco en el Hotel Pullman Barcelona Skipper. Conducir en la gran ciudad es cada vez más difícil, así que os ofrecemos un reportaje sobre coches pequeños diseñados para los urbanitas.

En otras secciones de la revista hablamos sobre leyendas urbanas, jardines urbanos, vinos hechos en las grandes ciudades ¡hasta nos leemos algunos libros ‘urbanos’!

También te ofrecemos reportajes sobre gente que nos inspira: Gwyneth Paltrow, la diseñadora de ropa urbana Collette Dinnigan (con su colección prêt-à-porter

de otoño/invierno 2011) y el especialista en nutrición, David L. Katz.

En el ámbito local, sabemos que vivir en la costa es disfrutar de una experiencia mucho más ‘resort’, así que te invitamos a disfrutar este mes de septiembre de los sabores de los sensacionales restaurantes Schilo y Girasol, que seguramente son de los mejores en esta parte tan exclusiva del Planeta.

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El Paraíso: Exclusive high quality villa in an established residential area on the New Golden Mile, just a few minutes´ drive from the beach.

Living-room with fireplace, fully fitted kitchen with breakfast area, separate dining-room. Self-contained guest apartment, gym, wine cellar, 3 car garage. Beautiful tropical garden with fantastic pool and barbecue area. Pool house, Jacuzzi. 5 bedrooms, 6+1 bathrooms, built 996 sqm, plot 2.067 sqm. ID-No.: 4002905. Price € 2.850.000.

Sierra Blanca: Charming ground floor apartment in the most exclusive residential area on the Costa del Sol. Living-room with fireplace, fully fitted kitchen. Under floor heating. Well-kept tropical garden, fantastic pool area. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, built 135 sqm, terrace 55 sqm.

ID-No.: 4001448. Price € 395.000.

Calahonda: Beautiful high quality garden apartment on the Costa del Sol. Large living-room, fully fitted kitchen. Winter garden, covered terrace with partial sea views. Well-kept tropical garden with fantastic pool area. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, built 130 sqm, terrace 42 sqm.

ID-No.: 5001120. Price € 205.000.

Sierra Blanca: Stunning classic style villa in a most exclusive gated community above Marbella. Spacious open plan living-area, large Southfacing terraces with great sea views. Well-kept tropical garden, private pool area. 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, built 830 sqm, plot 2.050 sqm.

ID-No.: 1065972. Price € 3.900.000.

Hacienda Las Chapas: Beautiful South-facing villa in a prestigious residential area East of Marbella. Living-room with fireplace, large terrace. Mature tropical garden with pool and barbecue house. Private Tennis court. 5 bedrooms, 4+1 bathrooms, built 761 sqm, plot 3.168 sqm.

ID-No.: 2002680. Price € 1.895.000.

Telephone 952 900 077 • Marbella@hansa-realty.com • www.hansa-realty.com

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FC Marbella ADVERT - essential_Layout 1 22/07/2011 15:43 Page 1

La Casita - 2.450.000€ La Casita has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate family living as well as entertaining guests. The villa which features Andalucian architecture is also bright and open to enhance the flow between indoor and outdoor living.

Located in Nueva Andalucia the villa (565 sq.m) occupies a very private plot (2.675 sq.m) on a front line position overlooking Los Naranjos Golf course and Marbella’s mountain.

The main accommodation is built on one level and comprises three double bedroom suites.

The living/dining room, with feature fireplace, opens onto the main terrace and pool, the covered terraces on each side of the living/dining room are used to enjoy outdoor living and alfresco dining.

The modern kitchen has recently been refitted and has a utility room with separate access.

On the adjoining plot you will find a guest house boasting 2 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living area with open fireplace, a kitchenette and sauna. All windows from floor to ceiling fold back to offer a splendid summer house with outdoor entertaining area. A garage for 3 cars adjoins the guest house and an area of the garage is currently being used as an office/gym. The gated and private drive has designated car spaces and can accommodate further car parking.

The current owner of the property will consider part exchange for a property in the UK

Villa Rosa - 1.950.000€ Built by its current owners in the golf valley of Nueva Andalucia, minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Puerto Banus and sandy beaches of Marbella, the property can comfortably host 10 people in 5 en-suite bedrooms. The construction which ended in 2003 was finished to a superior level with carefully selected materials. Villa Rosa is very well maintained and decorated in a classical style. The villa enjoys sun all day from East and West exposure with both covered and uncovered terraces. Shops, restaurant, bars, international school, golf courses are within the immediate vicinity.

The property that sits on a plot of 1.657 sq.m, has a total of 833 sq.m and is constructed on three levels all connected by a private hydraulic lift.

The basement comprises of a large parking area with an automatic entrance door; a very well organized machine room, a fully equipped laundry room and storage room. On the ground floor you will find a spectacular entrance hall leading to the lounge which is equipped with a fire place; a formal dining room; a snug room with a fireplace, an open plan kitchen; a guest toilet and a guest bedroom.

Outdoor you will find an off street parking area; a covered terrace with different zones such as an outdoor sitting area; a lounge area and a dining area with BBQ. As well as large terraces Villa Rosa has a beautiful split level garden, the lower level hosting a large swimming pool and chiringuito.

Fine & Country Marbella Marbella Club Hotel, 29602 Marbella, Malaga, Spain tel +34 952 76 40 10 email marbella@fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.es

Multi-award winning luxury estate agents in 300 locations worldwide

FC Marbella ADVERT - essential_Layout 1 22/07/2011 15:43 Page 2

La Casa Verde - 5.000.000€ From the moment one steps through the entrance to La Casa Verde there is a feeling of peace, tranquillity, gentleness and calm. This is a stylish and elegant home offering unique privacy and a superb lifestyle.

The villa has recently been completely refurbished for luxurious easy living, and offers the very highest standards of quality, design and technology. Fully equipped with the latest Domotic system, the house lights, heating and security cameras can all be controlled by the owner at the touch of a button.

La Casa Verde is situated in one of the most prestigious and sought after addresses in the Marbella region next to the iconic Marbella Club Hotel with direct access to a beautiful sandy beach, complete with chiringuitos and sunshades.

La Casa Verde is on a 881 sq.m plot containing the main house of a total of 448 sq.m. Within the grounds there is a separate casita, that would be perfect for guest accommodation.The house has a total of 5 bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms.The ground floor features a stunning lounge with a beautifully hand carved stone fireplace, a state-of-the-art kitchen, two guest bedrooms en-suite and a spacious master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, dressing and sitting room which opens out onto the beautiful gardens.

The first floor features an office area, an en-suite bathroom, dressing and a second master bedroom which opens onto an open terrace.

Casa Chaos - 2.950.000€ Casa Chaos has been expertly designed to offer the very best of modern living, yet keeping a traditional Spanish feel to the property.

This is a stylish and elegant home that offers a combination of privacy and a superb lifestyle.

The property is situated in a well-established residential area within Marbella, in the prestigious Cortijo de Nagüeles. The property has stunning mountain views from the gardens and views over the sea from the various terraces. The house is within easy reach of all the local amenities of Marbella town centre which is host to many thriving shops, restaurants and bars.

Casa Chaos is situated on 2.525 sq.m plot containing the main house, separate office and staff apartment (966 sq.m). The house features 5 bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms; an open plan kitchen/breakfast room with vaulted beamed ceilings; a stunning lounge; an elegant dining room with travertine marble floors, and a music room overlooking the garden. The extremely spacious master bedroom boasts a separate sitting area for relaxation and a glorious en-suite bathroom with a Jacuzzi bath, walk-in shower, steam room, sauna and gym area.

In the garden there is an L-shaped thatched gazebo over a dining area and bar complete with music system and satellite television. There are also extensive open terraces and a good sized heated swimming pool with electric cover (9x5 meters).

Fine & Country Marbella Marbella Club Hotel, 29602 Marbella, Malaga, Spain tel +34 952 76 40 10 email marbella@fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.es

Multi-award winning luxury estate agents in 300 locations worldwide

READING / MUSIC / FILMS / GADGETS / MOTORING / TRENDS

Catch up on all the latest entertainment releases, compact city cars and cutting edge gadgets.‌

24 Films 26 DVDs 28 Books 30 Music 32 Gadgets 34 Cars: Small-Sized Cars for Urbanites

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THETREND REVIEWS

Cinema

WORDS marisa cutillas

The Debt

» Director

John Madden (Shakespeare In Love) » Genre Thriller

» Actors

Helen Mirren, Tom Wilkinson, Ciarán Hinds, Jesper Christensen

» Director

Seth Gordon (The King of Kong)

» Genre

Comedy

» Actors

Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell, Jason Bateman, Jamie Foxx, Jason Sudeikis, Charlie Day

Even the best secret agents often have an unsettled score in the past and now, Rachel Singer (Helen Mirren) will have to face hers.

The story begins in 1997, when retired Mossad agents Rachel and Stephan (Tom Wilkinson) receive surprising news about their ex-colleague, David (Ciarán Hinds). All three had been venerated for decades for work they undertook in 1966, when they tracked down Nazi War criminal Vogel (Jesper Christensen) in Berlin, using Rachel as ‘bait’ to seduce the latter. All three agents accomplished their task at great personal cost and sacrifice… or did they? The story unfolds in two different time frames (past and present), the tensions reaching breaking point and culminating in a powerful finale. The Debt is based on an Israeli film of the same name, directed by Assaf Bernstein in 2007.

Cowboys and Aliens » Director Jon

Favreau (Iron Man) » Genre Science Fiction/Western » Actors Daniel Craig, Olivia Wilde, Harrison Ford The year is 1873 and the place is Arizona. A lone stranger (Daniel Craig) with no memory of his past walks through the arid desert city called Absolution. The only clue to how he got there is a mysterious shackle on his wrist. The stranger finds that he is not welcome in Absolution and that nobody steps outside their home unless they are ordered to do so by an authoritarian coronel called Dolarhyde (Harrison Ford). When the city is suddenly attacked by aliens descending from the sky at lightning speed, the stranger becomes the city’s last hope for salvation. Little by little, the solitary hero comes to remember who he is and why he is there and he discovers a secret that could give the city a fighting chance.

Horrible Bosses

Nick (Jason Bateman), Kurt (Jason Sudeikis) and Dale (Charlie Day) are three colleagues who all have one common source of suffering: their horrible bosses.

Unfortunately, quitting isn’t an option so after a night on the town, the boys decide to assassinate their employers, following the lead of a sleazy excon (Jamie Foxx). The only problem is that a plan can’t be foolproof when it’s devised by fools. Horrible Bosses has been touted by the foreign press as one of the best comedies of the year, with a star-studded ensemble that keep the laughs coming thick and fast.

The character development may be nil and the plot questionable but it’s the best fun you’re likely to have had in a long time.

The Tree of Life » Director

Terrence Mallick (The Thin Red Line)

» Genre

Fantasy/Drama » Actors Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, Jessica Chastain

Film Palm D’Or at this years Cannes The Tree of Life, winner of the called Jack ct hite arc sful ces suc a of Festival, is the touching story wers to modern world who seeks ans (Sean Penn), a lost soul in the life and the of ning mea the as h suc d philosophical doubts in his min sent, place both in the past and pre nature of faith. The plot takes a child as r the bro his of th dea the r as Jack struggles to get ove father difficult relationship with his and come to terms with his ly years as ear his alls rec and 0s 195 (Brad Pitt). Jack grew up in the eyes and saw the world with innocent the best in his life, when he father his n Soo . her mot his of s arm found love and mercy in the and the ld’ wor the of way g him ‘the begins to influence him, teachin vanishes as ce cen inno His . t’ firs f rsel importance ‘of thinking of you ld, once ering and death and his wor he encounters sickness, suff in. Jack’s quest s live now he e maz the s filled with splendour, become beauty his father and re-discover the as an adult is to reconcile with . love we ple peo the and life and joy afforded by everyday

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DELIGHTUL BEACH-SIDE HOME IN PRESTIGIOUS ADDRESS. BAHÍA DE MARBELLA. Elegant south-facing villa, built in a contemporary style with top qualities, situated third line to one of Marbella's finest beaches and also amongst three world class standard golf courses and a tennis club. Impressive entrance drive with palm trees. Distributed in two levels plus basement with a lift connecting all floors, the master bedroom occupies the entire upper level and enjoys uninterrupted sea views. Spacious kitchen, wine cellar, 4-car underground garage and space for sauna or gymnasium. A sound investment suitable for all-year round living or exclusive holiday residence in one of Marbella’s most prestigious addresses.

DM2797:: Bedrooms / Dormitorios 4 :: Bathrooms / Baños 4 :: Built / Construido 789m² :: Plot / Parcela 1.697m² :: Price / Precio 3.500.000€

CORTIJO-STYLE VILLA IN CONSOLIDATED GOLF ESTATE. GUADALMINA BAJA. Beautiful traditional Andalusian style home set amongst lush gardens in sought-after residential golf estate, within walking distance to the beach and close to a SPA hotel, international schools and commercial areas. The house is distributed in two levels, featuring the master suite and an additional bedroom on upper level and staff accommodation on main floor. Spacious and filled with light offering quality finishes with attention to detail combining contemporary and traditional materials. There is a totally independent guest house by the pool and the property also offers a private padel tennis court, making it an ideal family home.

DM2921:: Bedrooms / Dormitorios 6 :: Bathrooms / Baños 6 :: Built / Construido 603m² :: Plot/ Parcela 3.374m² :: Price / Precio 3.800.000€

Av. Cánovas del Castillo Nº 4 (esquina Av. Ricardo Soriano), 1º planta, No. 3, 29601 Marbella, Málaga, Spain.

Tel.: +34 952 76 51 38 I enquiries@dmproperties.com I www.dmproperties.com

THETREND REVIEWS

Dvd

WORDS marisa cutillas

» Genre Drama » Director Massy

Last Night

Tadjedin (in her debut film) » Actors Keira Knightley, Sam Worthington, Eva Mendes, Guillaume Canet

If soulful thrillers and science fiction are winning ingredients in your book, you undoubtedly treasured the 2005 film The Jacket, starring Adrien Brody and Keira Knightley, in which Brody plays a Gulf war veteran who is wrongfully sent to a mental institution. The film, written by Massy Tadjedin, boasts an original, fast-paced, emotive script, earning it its rightful place in my Top 10 science fiction films list. When I heard that Tadjedin was turning her hand to directing with the film Last Night (also starring Keira Knightley), I rushed to the premiere and thankfully, I sat before another highly original work, this time touching on more familiar themes like the nature of love, fidelity and truthfulness. Last Night is the story of Joanna (Knightley) and Michael (Sam Worthington), each of whom is tempted by a potential lover for one night. Without giving too much away, I can say that it is a ‘must’ for any couple, young or old, who has ever asked themselves the following questions: Is it worse to be unfaithful in body or mind? Does mistrust breed wrongdoing? Is monogamy a realistic concept? Does everybody pine after ‘the one that got away’? Is romantic love meant to last forever?

Unthinkable » Genre Thriller » Director Gregor Jordan

(Buffalo Soldiers) » Actors Samuel L. Jackson, Carrie-Anne Moss, Michael Sheen

ASE OF THE MONTH

RELE e FEATURED DVD

» Genre: Action

Matthew Vaughan (Kick-Ass) hael Avo Mc es » ACTORS: Jam Januay,ryMicJones Fassbender,

» Director:

X-Men: First Class

t marily because the las too excited about, pri t sn’ r, wa I tne Ra film tt er Bre oth d This is an , Gavin Hood an ected by Bryan Singer rth dir fou ks, flic the en ly, ful X-m nk ee thr cial. Tha ewhat slow and superfi famed respectively, were som ew Vaughan, a director tth Ma by ted ec dir en be s l ha cia ies cru ser nt; the me film in and excite ses of action, humour ned into a tur ully ssf ce suc for ser ving up hefty do be is to a classic comic series sor X, once ingredients, really, if w Magneto and Profes ho of ry sto the is ss Cla st ing the Fir : low en fol X-M ies . vie em mo worst en become each other’s ernatural sup ve ha rld wo the closest of friends, the d of humans all aroun s red nd by a solid hu d t cke tha ba y ts, ver disco cial effec s some magnificent spe sbender, Fas el ha Mic d an powers. The film boast y from James McAvo ing act c ati sm ari ch script and vely. and Magneto, respecti who play Professor X

Confu» cius

I’ve never been much into macabre thrillers like Saw or Rec so when I heard that Unthinkable was about a Muslim terrorist who has planted nuclear bombs around the United States and who forces the U.S. government to resort to often horrific attempts to elicit the whereabouts of the bombs, I wasn’t exactly counting the days until its release. After cussing at my husband for a few minutes for renting the film for our usual DVD night, I must say I was pleasantly surprised by this film’s pace and originality. Samuel Jackson, who plays the film’s tough as nails, almost Satanic interrogator, gives the performance of his life in a film that will have you on the edge of your seat and will invite you to ask yourself how licit torture tactics are when they involve saving hundreds of lives.

Powerful and very entertaining..

Genre Biopic Other Side of the (On i Me » Director Hu the Bridge) t, Zhou Xun -Fa Yun ow Ch ORS

» ACT

like re and you feel graphy and cultu ato em m: ge cin t es se lat ine of Ch ss out on Hu Mei’s If you are a fan s life, bstance, don’t mi er’ su ph of so bit ilo a ph th al wi nti catching a film t years of the influe until his death focuses on the las r at the age of 51, ree Confucius. The film ca l ca liti po his of nt rring Chinese me wa ce n en ee from the comm epic battles betw ing olv inv d rio important pe time yed an ex tremely at the age of 73 (a the year 551, pla in nce and rn ige ell bo , int us his cio states). Confu reigning King with the g win rs. Like sto wa be tor y, nflict and futile role in Chinese his end to internal co an t eyes by le pu to rab ou ort fav eff th charisma in an t looked upon wi no re we s exile. ort y eff tar , his him to seek volun many great thinkers vernment, leading go the of ers mb important me

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New Villa for Sale Outstanding Villa for sale situated first line on the golf course in Gualdamina Baja. Just 200 meters from the beach and 150 meters to the Hotel Guadalmina. This Villa has six bedrooms and nine bathrooms. The master bedroom enjoys two dressing rooms and two separate bathrooms. The plot is 3.022m2 and the total built area is 1.018m2 plus a 168m2 terrace and a 90m2 overflow saltwater swimming pool. Wooden floors and top of the line marble bathrooms. Domotic controlled with the best construction and material standards. Underground heating from gas and solar panels, AC with gas, Gazebo with separate bathroom and many other features.

For information please contact the promoter directly: 653964609 – 952780191 or email: katy@llodilu.es

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THETREND REVIEWS WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Books

2 BEAUTY IN DECAY: URBEX: THE ART OF URBAN EXPLORATION

BY ROMANY WG

When I saw Banksy’s humourous Oscarnominated documentary Exit Through The Gift Shop, I couldn’t help but lament not being part of the excitement and creativity that seems to thrive in big cities, particularly in the realm of street art. Beauty in Decay is a glorious book of photographs taken by ‘urban explorers’: an underground species whose task it is to explore abandoned buildings, tunnels and even prohibited, highsecurity areas in an attempt to find beauty in alternative settings. The book takes us from Paris to Rome, Naples to Odessa, in search of some of the most unexpected artistic oases imaginable, including abandoned mental asylums, disused monasteries and bizarre industrial buildings.

1

1 TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE: THE COLOSSAL BOOK OF URBAN LEGENDS BY JAN HAROLD BRUNVAND “A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on,” said Winston Churchill and this is very much the conclusion author Jan Harold Brunvand comes to in this, his sixth collection of urban legends. Heard about the story of alligators in the sewers, the unsolvable maths problem or the person who stuck his pet in the microwave? We know the world is crazy but just being aware that a whole lot of it is made up makes it all easier to handle. This book will be devoured by conspiracy theorists, myth debunkers and those simply after a good laugh. Too much city living certainly loosens a screw or two in most folk!

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3 URBAN

DICTIONARY: FULARIOUS STREET SLANG DEFINED BY AARON PECKHAM

When author Aaron Peckam founded his website www. urbandictionary.com in 1999, as a forum for city folk to share their commonly used slang terms, little did he know that he would receive hundreds of thousands of funny, provocative, clever terms, some of which are so humorous, he just had to share them with the world in his new dictionary. Some of the best terms include: Z Compunicate: to chat with someone in the same room via computer instead of with spoken language.

Z Wingman: A male who dates a pretty girl’s attractive friend so his own mate can hook up with the pretty girl.

Z Freudian click: When one erroneously clicks the mouse, sending a love note to one’s ex-boy/girlfriend instead of one’s actual partner.

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4 URBAN WORRIER: ADVENTURES IN THE LOST ART OF LETTING GO BY NICK THORPE

It seemed like any ordinary Monday but today, Nick Thorpe has reached the end of his rope. His health is in a mess, his family life is crumbling so he does the one thing we have all wanted to do at many points in our lives: he decides to let go.

Not just for a week or a month, but for a full year. It starts off with a plunge off a cliff and develops into wing-walking on a bi-plane, joining a naturist convention and clowning around in the big city. As the months go by, Nick begins to ask himself some important questions, like: Is being happy a question of the mind? Is a life devoid of responsibility man’s true destiny? And why is it that his dog seems to be more ‘with it’ than himself, despite his extended holiday?

From his rafting expedition in Sweden right through to his visit to a school ‘controlled’ by its young pupils, this humorous novel charts its protagonists sentimental, sometimes frustrating quest for the ideal way to find balance in the modern rat-race.

5 TRIUMPH OF THE CITY: HOW OUR GREATEST INVENTION MAKES US RICHER, SMARTER, GREENER, HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER BY EDWARD GLAESER

If you’re one of the few people who feel that city life isn’t as de-humanising or stressful as it’s cut out to be, you will love Triumph of the City. Edward Glaeser, one of the world’s most renowned economists, seamlessly marries economics to history to explain why cities

are, in his view, “our species’ greatest invention.” Using beautifully flowing language and witty banter, Glaeser culls the most important reasons why cities continue to thrive, despite the fact that modern technology has made our physical location seemingly less vital.

6 501 MUST VISIT CITIES BY D.

BROWN, J. BROWN AND A. FINDLAY Most people say that if they won the lottery, the first thing they would do is buy a round-the-world ticket. If you were lucky enough to be in this position, which cities would you visit first? 501 Must Visit Cities gives you a plethora of suggestions, detailing the special je ne sais quoi that makes each selection magical and giving advice on the inhabitants, when to go, vital places to see and interesting information you should know.

SUMMER IPAD/IPHONE APP OF THE MONTH: 3D PARIS

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Paris will always be ‘the city of love’, considered the most beautiful exponent of European art and architecture by travellers the world over.

It can be confusing to get from Point A to B sometimes, though, since Paris measures a whopping 86km2 and roads tend to open and close whenever construction is taking place, making our maps outdated and misleading. We all know how Google Earth has changed our lives when it comes to finding streets or buildings, but this groovy app, by 3D specialists Newscape Technology, allows you not only to see your location from above or to move forward and backward along a street; it also lets you view the entire city in 3D, so you can turn a whole building around and see what lies behind it, view streets and sites as though you were standing in front of them and easily move from one street to another without the usual hiccups encountered with Google. We hope a Costa del Sol version is in the works.

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22/8/11 14:56:37

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Frontline Golf VM09579 Villa situated in Nueva Andalucia and facing west. Built on one level on a plot of 1.686 m2 which rolls gently down to the golf course, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, spacious lounge, separate dining room, modern kitchen, garage, heated pool.

Price: €1.250.000

Nueva Andalucia VM09955 Lovely, private, bright and sunny villa, south facing, with a spacious lounge and seperate dining room, 3 spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms.

Underfloor heating in main areas and air-conditioning.

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Nueva Andalucia VM09409 Large west facing townhouse on a gated complex close to golf courses. Living room leads to a spacious terrace with access to pool and gardens, 3 en-suite bedrooms, WC and a garage. Fantastic reduced price.

Price: €299.000

Beach Penthouse VM09792 Situated beside Puerto Banus and the beach, this duplex penthouse has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, sea views, 2 terraces plus a large sunny roof terrace, underground garage, 24 hour security, heated pool. Price now reduced.

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www.villamarketing.com Sales - Long & Short Term Rentals - Property Management

19/8/11 15:09:29

THETREND REVIEWS

Music

WORDS Allan Tee

Joss Stone LP1 As a producer, it seems as though Dave Stewart is so much in demand that hardly a month passes without another project that features his association in some way. He’s been working with Stevie Nicks and Joss Stone and has his own solo album on the way too! The opportunity to experience Joss Stone’s wonderful soulful and passion filled vocal style is not completely realised in this mostly self-penned production. Her absence from the music scene has been tempered with her acting distractions (she played Anne of Cleves in The Tudors), but little else seems to have made any impact. She has just not been in contention. This is no 21! Neither is it deep or expansive. Not too demanding maybe, but Newborn is a track that does show a little extra.

Maybe she needs the atmosphere of Memphis or Nashville to achieve some depth, which she has not managed to do in her latest work.

Jackie Evancho Dream With Me

Yes

Fly from Here

keyboard maestro Rick Now without Cape-wearing t Jon Anderson, being Wakeman and unique vocalis er from a Yes tribute sing replaced by – of all things – a roducing the vintage rep at go a band. Fly from Here has e drawn listening to the old demo by Trevor era. Does it work? I was mor y, they do end up reworking an atel rtun Unfo ks. trac al a vidu indi pling or are they simply relying on album in its entirety then sam t creativity really been revived tha has so , gles and Bug Yes d, of ic ban er to the mus Horn and Geoff Downes’s oth a diehard fan or a newcomer 0s? It is enjoyable so if you are concept idea from the early 198 . ndabout, it is worth catching can only recall the single Rou

Those of you saying ‘Jackie who?’ may be surprised to know that this new artist has burst onto the scene following her appearance on America’s Got Talent last season. She also sang in the finals of this year’s Britain’s Got Talent. Getting warmer! I got sucked into some kind of disturbing fascination listening to this remarkable voice from a girl of only 11 years.

Fitting the voice to the person is demanding but there is no doubting the remarkable talent of this young lady. Hearing is believing, seeing is astounding. Do seek it out, it will be rewarding.

Gillian Welcdhthe Harvest The Harrow an

03’s Soul Welch’s last album, 20 g years since Gillian in the red tou e hav It has been eight lon s e Rawling long-term partner Dav ased a rele y the 09 Journey. Welch and her 20 In . berists worked with the Decem d them interim, and she has which seems to have free nd, Frie a of nd Frie A , ord rec ed songs ont 10 e s-fr duc ling Raw and Rawlings to pro en this long for Welch um alb the ed tur fea up. It has probably tak I result, when ly high standards. The I must but ion sat that met their punishing sen ed lax r-re k, gave out a rather ove hone. Now as my album of the wee k in front of the microp wee llow me a for de ma ly tain cer quil state it s, tran a fes con will lull you into ssic already, this album being praised as a cla it. and I suggest you savour

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Allan Tee presents Album Hour at 3pm on Saturday on Talk Radio Europe. 91.9FM. www.talkradioeurope.com 19/8/11 14:58:40

EXCLUSIVE SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN BENALMÁDENA

R

oyal Pianos, one of southern Spain’s most reputable suppliers of pianos, is thrilled to announce the opening of its brand new showroom in Benalmádena on the Costa del Sol. Spanning 500m², the new exhibition area showcases the best brands in the industry, with new and pre-owned pianos that come with a five to ten year guarantee.

Over the last 10 years, Royal Pianos has maintained its position as one of the leading suppliers of pianos in Spain. They have recently been awarded a distribution contract to be agents for the prestigious, Austrian brand, Bosendorfer, considered to be one of the best piano brands in the world.

With a young and dynamic team dedicated to innovation and quality, they offer specialist expertise and outstanding customer service. Brand names include Yamaha, Schimmel, Kawai and Bosendorfer amongst others. Prices from 2,450€ and 1,900€ for a pre-owned piano.

For more information you can visit www.royalpianos.com Email: info@royalpianos.com Tel: (+34) 952 858 777.

Open by appointment.

SHOWROOM: Polígono Industrial La Leala, C/ Santo Tomás 23, Benalmádena, 29631 Málaga.

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Royal Pianos services include: • • • • •

Piano sales Piano hire for events / concerts Transport services Tuning & restoration Backline rental

With a state-of-the-art showroom in Benalmádena, in the province of Málaga and strategic alliances with key trading partners, Royal Pianos operates on a local, regional and national level.

Tehnically savvy, Royal Pianos holds fully-qualified Piano Tuner status (PTA Association, England) to effortlessly meet clients’ needs and the rigorous demand for the highest quality instrument.

25/8/11 15:02:34

THETREND GADGETS Marisa Cutillas brings you a short but sweet set of über cool gadgets.

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Gadgets for Urbanites 1 - Camileo S20 Full HD Pocket Camcorder by Toshiba

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Bearing a slick, ultra-slim and stylish design, Toshiba’s new camcorder is little larger than your average mobile phone, yet boasts fantastic features such as a 7 cm (3-inch) LCD screen, 4x digital zoom, image stabilisation, motion detection, slow motion mode, time lapse mode, etc. Makng it even more irresistible is the fact that it comes with a mini tripod and has various outputs including a TV output, HDMI output and a USB port for easy connection to your computer. Another great feature is that it can upload all your favourite videos directly on to YouTube. i www.toshiba.com

2 - FinePix HS20EXR by Fujifilm

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The bustling super zoom market has just been given a lift by Fujifilm’s new FinePix HS20EXR camera, delivering 30x optical zoom and image-based stabilisation features. The excitement engulfing this device is centered on its 16 Megapixel EXR CMOS sensor, which merges Fujifilm’s EXT shooting technology with a Backside Illuminated Sensor. The camera also offers SDXC card support, a higher 12,800 ISO cap and more pixels in its LCD. i www. fujifilm.com

On Tour XTB by JBL

3 - Star Wars Kinect by Xbox Envelop yourself in ‘the force’ with this brand new Star Wars Kinect console

by Xbox. Unveiled at the renowned Comic-Con in San Diego, California by Microsoft and LucasArts, it boasts a 320GB hard drive system, Kinect sensor and C-3PO styled wireless controller. It also includes the Kinect Star Wars title. i www.xbox.com

4 - Rugged Hard Disk by LaCiE This rough and rugged hard disk, ideal for those who are always on the go, boasts a triple interface (FireWire 800, FireWire 400 and USB 2.0), so you can plug it into just about any computer. It also has a maximum interface transfer rate of up to 800Mbits/s with FireWire 800 and up to 7200rpm. We love its scratch-protected aluminum design and shock-resistant rugged sleeve, which is as tough as it is stylish. Worldrenowned designer Neil Poulton can be credited for its funky, youthful look. i www.lacie.com

5 - Thunderbolt Display

by Apple Apple recently unveiled the world’s first display using Thunderbolt I/O technology and functioning as a top notch docking station for your Mac notebook. With only one cable, you can connect any Thunderbolt-enabled Mac to the new, 68.6cm (27-inch)

Thunderbolt display, accessing the latter’s FaceTime camera, high quality audio, and wide range of ports, including Gigabit Ethernet, FireWire 800, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt ports.

The Display also comes with a built-in HD video cam, which makes it an ideal choice for those into video conferencing. i www.apple.com

6 - Adam 2

by Notion Ink Adam 2 by Notion Ink is a very special gadget, which marries the functions of a modern tablet with those of an electronic reader. Adam 2 has two specially appealing features: its Android operative system and Pixel Qi screen, which allows it to behave like a normal electronic reader when the backlighting is turned off. Another new feature is the incorporation of Nvidia Tegra 2 chips. i www.notionink.com

7 - Cybershot DSC–TX55 camera by Sony

Sony’s new 16.2 megapixel camera is exceptionally slim, measuring only 12.2mm deep but packing a whole lot of punch with features such as a backside illuminated CMOS sensor, stabilised 5x zoom lens, and a 1080i60 movie recording capacity. It includes an 8.8cm OLED touch screen, 3D Sony’s Sweep Panorama feature and a ‘Super Pixel Resolution’ zoom, which processes an image until it achieves a full pixel count. i www.sony.com

JBL’s new portable sound system is pretty stylish and so small it makes an excellent travel companion.

This David of portable sound systems delivers Goliath-like sound and is able to receive music via Bluetooth technology. The device is 7cm high and 15cm in diameter and comes with Odyssey transducers and an 8-watt digital amplifier with DSP equalisation. i www.jbl.com

32 / ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2011

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22/8/11 14:42:17

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21-12-2010 13:56:24

THETREND MOTOR

URBANCHIC Alfa Mito

CARS

WORDS NICK HALL

Another cute Italian from the legendary Alfa Romeo, the Mito is a super stylish supermini that could turn heads at a supercar convention.

This tiny hatchback comes with a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine.

There are lesser versions that will help skirt tax in some countries, but the 155bhp engine

Things were simpler in the old days. Rich people drove sportscars and giant luxury machines, and the unwashed masses pedalled to work in a tin box on wheels with an asthmatic powerplant that would struggle to make the hill to Benalmádena.

But times are changing.

City living, restrictions on big engined cars in cities around the world and the need for more agile, less taxing machines in the modern world have muddied the waters. Now, a Smart car parked next to a Ferrari on the drive is a common sight in Marbella’s luxury estates and dinky Fiat 500s take pride of place on the Puerto Banús harbour next to Bugattis and yachts.

But just because the rich want a small car, that doesn’t mean they will accept anything less than the best. So the manufacturers have responded, bringing prestige qualities to the small car sector.

Now we have small cars with mindboggling trim levels, options and enough toys to entertain the most fickle buyer.

Here are just five of the best.

found in this one makes it a far more attractive proposition for the more upscale customer that just wants to take full advantage of the compact dimensions and stunning good looks.

It’s way more sporting than the opposition and comes with the typical Alfa Romeo design flair. Cute, sexy and cool all at the same time, it

also has an angry, buzzing hornet of an engine under the bonnet. It hits 100kph in 8s and tops out at 215kph, which is more than enough for the city walls and even the occasional motorway trip.

And for serious performance addicts there’s a 230bhp GTA version on the way…

MINI Cooper S

This is the pioneer of the premium small car sector. The car that started it all is the rebirth of the classic Alec Issigonis design that became a legend over four decades.

BMW’s interpretation of the classic is much bigger than the original, but its cheeky design, dinner plate speedo and perky performance secured orders in droves. This was one of the first cars in recent times to transcend class and find its way on to the drives of teachers, entrepreneurs and millionaires alike.

Now the MINI has spawned endless derivatives, including the off-road Countryman, but the Cooper is the sporty pick of the bunch. Pin sharp handling that proved brilliant fun on a run up the Ronda road, zippy acceleration from its 1.6-litre turbo and the feel-good factor of the design made the new MINI a sure fire winner. It does 100kph in 6.6s and delivers 181bhp, which is big in this company.

Of course it’s bigger than some of the opposition, don’t be fooled by the name, this is a large small car. It comes with a bigger engine, too, which will affect its tax status, and its fashion icon status means its everywhere and the novelty factor is gone. If these downsides don’t matter, then it’s still a peach of a car.

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24/8/11 11:04:10

Audi A1

Audi rules the world right now in terms of premium car sales and has star performers in pretty much every class. It was late to the game in the premium small car sector with the A1, but it’s one of the best out there.

Essentially this is a re-engineered VW Polo aimed at a more exclusive crowd. On the outside its elegant, if nothing to shout about, but inside this thing is a league apart. Everything comes with that high-end feel and there’s even a smaller version of the multimedia interface found in the A8 limousine.

You can specify the DSG paddleshift gearbox on the 120bhp 1.2-litre turbo. The car hits 100kph in a respectable 8.9 sec, does 53.3mpg and produces just 124g/km of carbon dioxide. That is more than respectable and there’s no real cost. Yes the car is smaller than the rest of the Audi range, but it’s just as luxuriously appointed on the inside and feels like a much more grown up car.

It isn’t as fun as the Fiat 500 or the MINI, but then it’s as solid and dependable as a big Audi in a city friendly package.

Aston Martin Cygnet

Fiat 500 Abarth Esseesse

Fiat’s own revival special threatens to usurp the MINI and it actually is a much cuter car. It’s curvy, fun and puts a smile on everyone’s face, and the Abarth version is just cool enough for men to drive too. It crosses the gender divide better than most and still looks as fresh as the day it was launched.

The Esseesse is the hottest version on offer and comes with 160bhp, which is plenty for a car like this. The 100kph mark falls in 7.4s and it will go all the way to 210kph, but the little plucky Fiat is way more than the numbers.

It’s a fun car to drive, really fun, and might mean the supercar stays in the garage more often than it should. It isn’t cheap, but then it is a whole lot of car for the money and even the plastics on the inside don’t detract from what is a truly entertaining drive.

This is a leap into the unknown for Aston Martin, and was driven as much by the need to lower the overall emissions of the company, in line with EU regulations, as to sell cars. It has gone down a storm.

Aston Martin takes the Toyota IQ, strips it to the bare bones and rebuilds the car with its own panels, front end and interior. And if owners can look past the Toyota switchgear, then it feels every bit as good as an Aston Martin DB9 on the inside.

It doesn’t drive like one, as the 1.3-litre engine puts out just 97bhp and takes 11.6s to hit 100kph. But then most owners already have a supercar in the garage and this €35.000 creation truly is the reserve of the millionaire set. What is important is that is it fits almost anywhere, is compact, easy and the ultimate fashion accessory.

As always with Aston Martin, it is mission accomplished, and I’d just love to see Bond driving one in his next adventure.

SEPTEMBER 2011 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE / 35

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24/8/11 11:06:32

CULTURE / HISTORY / FAMOUS PEOPLE / INTERVIEWS / FEATURES / HUMOuR

Living in the city, getting to know Gwyneth, famous urban myths and city life‌

38 Urban Living 46 Gwyneth Paltrow 48 Rupert Bluff: Documenting City Life 50 Urban Myths

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24/8/11 11:14:23

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8/26/11 3:29:03 PM

THEFOCUS URBAN LIVING

WORDS AMY WILLIAMS

From a closer-than-comfortable position of involuntary intimacy with cocommuters in a crowded carriage whose contents resemble scenes of social bedlam on an almost Boschian scale, today’s trendy urbanite is not only deciding what temperature he wants his home to be when he eventually descends from the disarray and walks through the front door, but is making similarly executive decisions about the best way to wind down after the long and weary commute. Should they programme the kettle to boil or the bath to begin filling…

O

k, so there are those who don’t have this daily dilemma; those who spend the commutes from hell hoping that one of their four flatmates hasn’t already beaten them to the bath by the time they get home, or used the last of the milk for that long-awaited cup of tea. But, in cities across the world, luxury urban living is on the rise.

Whilst the science fiction writers of the 1960s may have anticipated a few more lifelike robots in the average 21st century home, taking responsibility for the day-to-day domestic duties, the reality is not far off their prediction; it’s maybe just a little more sophisticated. Installed within the walls and floorboards of the latest plush pads across

the world’s cities are invisible housekeepers, concierges and engineers. They will wake you as you wish with the slow raising of the bedroom blinds, secure all windows and doors from the touch of one single button when you leave, and even do the shopping while you are out – presuming you own a ‘smart’ bin, which scans the barcodes of the items you’ve been throwing away and then sends an order for their replacements via the internet to your local supermarket. The vacuuming can happen while you’re out too, via a suction nozzle in the wall socket, which is fortunate, as a hoover which happily makes its way around your home in your absence would be more than likely to trigger the motion sensors which would

simultaneously raise the alarm, contact security, turn on the lights, lock all the doors and windows, activate all the CCTV cameras, etc.

Many of the properties which boast these features are high-end homes, with an equally high-end price tag. For the luxury of a home cinema, an enormous spa pool, iPhoneoperated lighting, and chilled ceilings (yep), one property currently on the market in Knightsbridge is going for £6.65 million. Or, for a third of the price (there is a recession on after all) a property known as the iPad flat is available at just under £2 million. This buys you iPad-controlled heating and kitchen appliances, as well as access to your home through fingertip recognition.

With a slightly less conspicuous presence, albeit occupying a premium location, the properties at One Hyde Park have been heralded as the ultimate in London luxury living, with a high-security features list which leaves you in no doubt as to the staggering wealth of the residents within. Not for them a snoozing security guard in a little office at the entrance. Here, security is no less than an SAS guard, backed up by bulletproof windows, panic rooms, iris scanners and a secret tunnel to the neighbouring Mandarin Oriental Hotel – although to date this has been used more for emergency gourmet take-aways than urgent evacuation.

The most expensive unit in the property is the £136 million three-storey apartment owned by the Ukrainian oligarch, Rinat Akhmetov.

Examples such as these abound in the cities of the world. But with 67 million people globally moving from rural to urban life each year (added to the 3.3 billion people, half the world’s population, who already live there), grandeur on this scale is simply not sustainable, and the challenge for the world’s architects and engineers is to create luxury living spaces in the rapidly-declining space available.

One Hyde Park: One of the most exclusive places to live in the world

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24/8/11 14:10:35

This is definitely luxury urban living at its finest. And it can be seen the world over.

Believed to be the most expensive home in the world, the 27-storey mansion which towers over the metropolis of Mumbai and, somewhat controversially, its surrounding slums and the 18 million people who exist in them, is believed to be the world’s first billion-dollar home. Owned by the world’s fifth richest man, Mukesh Ambani, this 173-metre tall property requires a workforce of 600 staff simply to run it, and just under £100,000 per month to pay the electricity bills. What can you get for a billion dollars? Amongst other things, three helicopter pads, parking for 160 cars, your own health club plus gym and dance studio, a 50seater cinema and several swimming pools.

URBAN LIVING The towering home of Mukesh Ambani in Mumbai

SEPTEMBER 2011 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE / 39

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24/8/11 14:11:32

The glorious Plaza Hotel in New York

Back in the 1920s, New York was the first city to see the potential in penthouse apartments. A boom in economic growth meant that demand for living in the city soared, and, the only way was up. One of the first developments was a rooftop apartment at the Plaza Hotel in 1923, with views over Central Park, and consequently, more luxury penthouse apartments followed. The celebrity seal of approval was added to this new lifestyle choice when the publisher Conde Nast moved into a grand duplex penthouse on Park Avenue in 1925.

With the celebrity lifestyle in mind, the ten rooftop entertaining salons (decorated by darling of the design world, Elsie de Wolfe) were put to good use with opulent, society parties which secured the place of the penthouse, by association, in the most desirable of New York residences.

In recent years, one of the most lavish penthouse apartments in New York was designed by architect Robert A. M. Stern for construction atop his 20-storey apartment building at 15 Central Park West, now one of the city’s most prestigious addresses. Overlooking Central Park, and offering a vista of the entire midtown skyline, the apartment has been exquisitely furnished with Brazilian rosewood in the library, Venetian stucco in the dining room, marble floors and mahogany in the entrance gallery, and a combination of racing-green lacquer, bamboo and textured glass in the kitchen. Nineteenth-century French bricks were imported to complete the interiors of the fireplaces. Fast-forwarding 200 years from those however, the technology systems incorporated into the penthouse are cutting edge, with moisture sensors which will send an email to the managers of the building on detection of a leak; an anemometer on the roof to monitor the wind speed and retract the canvas awnings of the terraces should the wind reach speeds strong enough to risk ripping them; and sensitive temperature gauges which send an email alert should there be a variation, even by a single degree, from the temperature requested by the owner.

Soaring past the penthouses of New York

and the other already-heavily-populated cities of the world however, Tokyo, with its 27.2 million inhabitants, can’t afford to stop at a mere 20 storeys. Scaling new heights, literally, Obayashi Corp once unveiled plans to build a 500-storey skyscraper to house some of the inhabitants of the world’s most populated city, the upward levels of which would be accessed by zig-zagging, vertical shuttle trains, rather than the common elevator. A staggering four times as high as the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, the planned skyscraper in Tokyo was designed to reach such an altitude that it would require oxygen to be pumped into the top levels. And that’s not the only complication.

It seems, in general, that occupants who live on floors upwards of 100 storeys are subject

to continuous motion sickness caused simply by gusting winds and typhoons, as well as occasional earthquakes. If Obayashi Corp’s plans go ahead, they may have to follow the example of the designers of Tokyo’s 220-storey Dynamic Intelligence Building, who intend to solve this problem by installing seismic sensors which will report detected movement and vibration to a system which controls, and adjusts, the structure’s centre of gravity to maintain its equilibrium. Other designs in the pipeline in Japan are for buildings which include high-tech air ventilation systems which will direct the flow of a breeze to dedicated spaces, and the dual functionality of buildings as power stations through the use of photovoltaic glass to convert solar energy into electricity.

The elegant 15 Central Park West building

© michaelminn.net/newyork

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© Iwan Baan A peaceful working day at the Collector’s Loft The lobby of the Piazza boutique apartments

A futuristic reading experience

But despite the opulence of Mumbai and London, and the technological advances of Japan, New York beats all the other cities of the world to the top of the luxury urban living list, according to a global cities index

by Knight Frank, not only because of its eclectic architecture and luxury penthouse living, but also because of its smaller, but more expensive, living spaces.

Loft and warehouse conversions, a mainstream staple in American urban living, have inspired architects the world over to follow America’s lead. In the late 1980s and 1990s, the ‘dot com’ boom meant that young, vibrant professionals, flocking to the cities to work, embraced the hip, bohemian-chic lifestyle of loft living and slowly replaced the artists and hippies who had traditionally made their homes in the old warehouses and abandoned buildings of industrial urban neighbourhoods. And with the inner-city salaries which came with them, they transformed these once run-down premises and built them to their own, sometimes quirky, requirements.

One particularly sophisticated transformation is The Collector’s Loft in downtown Manhattan, a stunning property which has been designed for an owner who wanted a home which would double as a gallery for his eclectic collection of literature and art. Designers Ben van Berkel of UNSTudio perfectly combined a comfortable yet minimalist living space with areas for floating exhibition walls, library shelves and display cases, including full floor-to-ceiling glass panes in the southern wall which frame the compelling views of the urban Manhattan skyline.

Simplicity and grace are characteristic features of the Collector’s Loft in Manhattan

Slick kitchen styles at the Piazza boutique apartments

The inviting living room at a Piazza boutique apartment

© EA Shaw

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The Crabtree Place Penthouse

In Covent Garden, an (to all appearances) unassuming warehouse on Macklin Street has earned the accolade of ‘the best party pad in London’. The original warehouse has been preserved in its entirety, but within it, an eight-bedroom townhouse has been built, with the views from some of the rooms literally overlooking the warehouse interior. In addition, the property comprises a cinema, a gym, a swimming pool, a sauna and a five-car garage, plus a sun terrace with a retractable roof and a barbecue area. Even the staff have a separate, two-bedroom flat within the warehouse. The popular pad is now under offer, but agents EA Shaw have no shortage of similarly exciting warehouse conversions for urbanites wanting a luxury lifestyle in their own party property in central London. Currently on their books, for example, are rare boutique apartments in the Piazza, also in Convent Garden.

Blending old and new, in the historic heart of London, these 19th century buildings have been dynamically designed to a high

contemporary standard, with a restored façade and two additional storeys in lightweight steel and glass. In the centre of London, meanwhile, Crabtree Place on Whitfield Street comprises apartments, triplex homes and duplex penthouses, the top floor of which has a wrap-around terrace overlooking the most spectacular of London’s rooftop and treetop views.

Where architects don’t have the luxury of space however, what little they have must be used creatively, and space maximisation has consequently become a popular recent trend in apartment design. With the rate at which the urban population is increasing in countries like Japan and China, designers and architects are striving to provide luxury on the smallest scale possible. From just 30m2 (a common size apartment in China), Hong Kong architect Gary Chang ingeniously created a system of sliding internal walls to transform each room into a series of other rooms, and by so doing, created an apartment with a staggering 24 rooms in total.

The inviting kitchen of the Macklin Street Home

A comforting bedroom in the Macklin Street Home in Covent Garden The gorgeous bathroom of the Piazza apartments in Covent Garden

The pool and bar area of the Macklin Street Home All pictures on this page © EA Shaw

SEPTEMBER 2011 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE / 43

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Closet House: Making the most of little space through moving walls

Pictures on this page: © www.consexto.com

Mirrors do plenty to magnify existing space at the Closet House

A similar approach was adopted by Consexto, the Portuguese designers behind Closet House. With a small living space of just 44m2, moving walls also serve to transform each space and provide a comfortable, modern and fashionably-minimalist lifestyle. The bedroom, for example, enlarges by sliding a wall and, in so doing, allows access to a modern closet. The dining room has a retractable table which seats six, and the bedroom has a television which pops up from the bed. It is a modern, intelligent property, installed with the same technology systems as its larger counterparts.

With global city space at such a premium, perhaps one of the most luxurious, and treasured, features of any urban home is a garden area. Now an increasingly growing trend, urban gardens

Modern sleeping at the Closet House in Portugal

can be anything from a bijou balcony replete with window boxes, to vast rooftop areas furnished with lush greenery, outdoor dining facilities and water features. Recently exhibited at the Chelsea Flower Show, ‘A Monaco Garden’ showcased the ultimate in urban horticulture.

In the most denselypopulated country in the world, apartment living is typical for Monaco’s 23,000 residents which, according to the designer of the display, Sarah Eberle, makes architecture and gardens inseparable.

Endorsed by Prince Albert, the show garden at Chelsea incorporated the architecture of Monaco in a 220m2 life-size roof garden, accessed from an atrium with a green lavenderplanted roof, and a water

display running down one of its glass faces to the ground...

The philosophy behind the luxury urban lifestyle is simple: style, sophistication, high-specification, sumptuousness and, if not space itself, then the illusion of it. The challenge for the world’s architects however, as the urban population continues to grow, and city space declines, is much more complex: not only to create space, but to make each development more intelligent and luxurious than the last. But, if the science fiction writers of today haven’t yet run out of ideas, then we have no reason to believe that the architects of the world will either. What can be imagined, can be done. e

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THEFOCUS PEOPLE

W

ith the exception of Carrie Bradshaw from Sex In The City, few women quite embody the essence of the high-flying city slicker like Oscar-winning actor, Gwyneth Paltrow. When it comes to punctiliously perfect grooming, old world glamour and a certain je nais se quoi that is part and parcel of the elusive quality called style, Gwyneth wears it like no other and she is still a favourite presence on the red carpet of the world’s most important cinematic and fashion events. At the age of 39, she is the wife of Coldplay’s Chris Martin and is a loving mother of two children (Apple, 7 and Moses, 5). She is also a business partner of fitness and weight loss guru, Tracy Anderson, a great cook, a successful author (her best-selling cookbook, My Father’s Daughter remained on the top of The New York Times best-seller list for

HERE ARE TEN REASONS WHY SHE IS OUR ALL-TIME FAVOURITE CITY CHICK:

the meaning of friendship, addictions, parenting and so many more interesting topics. I am a fan myself and log in weekly to discover any new entries. The best thing about GOOP, for someone who probably has very little in common with Paltrow, is the latter’s generosity in sharing information from experts in psychology, medicine, nutrition and even spirituality. The list of experts include eminent doctors like Dr. Mehmet Oz, leading psychologists such as Dr. Karen Binder-Brynes and visionaries like Cynthia Bourgeault, an Episcopal priest whose writings are a feast for the eyes and soul. Paltrow is very much aware of the privileged position she holds, but far from maintaining her distance like most Alisters (think Jennifer López, Penélope Cruz or Nicole Kidman), it is easy to feel like you know her. She’s like the best friend many women wish they had in highschool: cool, funny and transparent like a sheet of crystal.

You probably guessed that I’m an

s e v o L y d o b Every

many weeks) and a model for chic brands like Coach or Estée Lauder cosmetics.

Despite an indubitably hectic schedule, somehow she manages to find the time to share her interests, knowledge and discoveries in her blog, GOOP (www. goop.com), where she invites her readers to become better, more enlightened people by eating well, exercising and meditating. Here, Gwyneth also offers her thoughts on everything from homosexuality to women’s roles in modern society,

unabashed fan of Gwyneth but I am well aware that for thousands of people around the world, her perfection is cringe-worthy. Popular gossip blogs in the USA often take digs at her, poking fun at ‘her royal goopness’ and implying she thinks she is a cut above us mere mortals. ‘Snotty’, ‘bitchy’ and ‘elitist’ are only some adjectives you may have read to describe her, and the flack for her recent cookbook was equally harsh. Journalist Heather Horn wrote a very funny article reviewing My Father’s Daughter Daughter, referring to the book as ‘bogged down in agave syrup’ and noting: “Paltrow has been enraging people for ages… so the public was pretty well prepped when some sentences from her cookbook got outed early by reviewers. Take, for example this one: ‘One evening when I had my wood-burning stove going I realized I hadn’t thought of desert’.

Talk about a first-world crisis!” Horn interestingly points out that just to

Z SHE IS A FANTASTIC SINGER: Gwyneth’s pipes have garnered her a coveted place in hit series Glee, where she plays Holly Holiday, a cocky teacher who teaches a school glee club a thing or two about singing and dancing. She also held her bearings in the film Country Strong (2010), where she plays a country singer making an attempt at a comeback despite her addictions to alcohol.

Z SHE REALLY CAN COOK! If you’re after a super healthy cookbook which bears influences from some of the world’s top chefs but contains recipes the everyman will find easy, get your hands on My Father’s Daughter.

The book, which pays homage to her father, Bruce Paltrow, and his love for good food, is a must for those into organic, healthy cuisine for the whole family.

Z SHE ISN’T NATURALLY THAT SKINNY. Gywneth admits that following her second pregnancy, it was very difficult to take the excess weight off. She credits her friend and partner Tracy Anderson with creating the perfect method for permanent weight loss.

Z SHE LOVES SPAIN! When she was a teenager she spent time as an exchange student with a family in Talavera de la Reina she still refers to as just that – family – and she speaks fluent Spanish. She is a great ambassador of Spanish cuisine, and still hooks up with her Spanish ‘relatives’ when she can.

Z SHE IS AN ACTIVE AMBASSADOR FOR SAVE THE CHILDREN and is on the board of the Robin Hood Foundation, which works to fight poverty in New York.

Z SHE DUMPED BRAD PITT! Isn’t that every girl’s fantasy? Gwyneth once said she felt bad about hurting him but at the time she was too young and was not ready for marriage.

Z SHE’S NOT ABOVE MAKING FUN OF HERSELF. It was hilarious to see her sing Cee-Lo’s Fuck You in Glee, a seeming slap in the face to members of the press who constantly define her as stuffy and ‘Miss Marple’-like.

Z SHE’S A FERVENT GREENIE! Check out Goop for her suggestions of clothing, literature and gadgets which are environmentally friendly in addition to über cool.

Z SHE’S A JACK OF ALL TRADES. She is a novice gardener, flower decorator, hairdresser and trainer. She gives everything a go and that is inspirational.

Z SHE’S VERSATILE. Her Oscar for Shakespeare in Love recognised her ability to inspire us, make us cry and laugh. She is the quintessential performer for all seasons.

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WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS

h t e n y Gw … w o r Palt or do they?

acquire the “essential ingredients and equipment” in Paltrow’s kitchen would cost in the region of $1.200. Isn’t that a bit pricey just to bake an organic duck or a batch of spelt muffins? My answer to this sentiment is that Gwyneth Paltrow cannot help being who she is and she is as entitled to pride in her culture, family and craft as anybody else. Who cares if she prefers the low-GI agave syrup to refined sugar, or makes pizza in an expensive oven in her backyard? Life should be about enjoying each moment and sharing good food, laughter and insight with your family.

It seems pretty sad that the superslim actress should constantly have to remind the world that she does “eat like a horse”, that she does “cheat” on her detox diets and that she does have problems like post-natal depression, stress and the work-family dichotomy.

To the critics I would say that they should spend less time criticising GOOP and more time enjoying its contents.

They will find a host of surprising and revealing entries such as Gwyneth’s letter on postpartum depression, where she says: “When my son, Moses, came into the world in 2006, I expected to have another period of euphoria following his birth, much the way I had when my daughter was born two years earlier. Instead I was confronted with one of the darkest and most painfully debilitating chapters of my life.” Gwyneth then shares important information from a doctor and psychologist, followed by a beautiful letter from her friend and fellow actress Bryce Dallas Howard, who shares her own incapacitating experience with postnatal depression.

Kudos to Gwyneth Paltrow for not taking GOOP offline in light of the harsh criticism or for continuing to talk openly with the press, sharing revealing anecdotes such as the fact that her grandmother was “a bitch who hated me” (that also got her into trouble with the American press). Gwyneth has admitted to regretting being so open with the press in the past, which has caused her complications in her private life. It is sad, though, that due to exaggerated media attention we may lose out on some or her spontaneity, honesty and passion. Everybody may not love Gwyneth but most of us do. e

SEPTEMBER 2011 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE / 47

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THEFOCUS HOLLYWOOD WORDS Rupert Bluff

REAL LIFE

in the Big City

Rupert Bluff reports on the latest in film, gossip and Hollywood life from Los Angeles.

The best thing about living in Los Angeles is that it’s a bit of a happy medium between big cities like New York or Chicago and small seaside towns. Hollywood may be a billion dollar industry, but for a reporter like myself who is constantly on the move interviewing stars, attending premieres and covering red carpet events, there are also many opportunities to sit back and enjoy a beautiful day on the beach, with almost two dozen different beaches in the vicinity, from Point Dume, a revered spot for whale watching and scuba diving, to Leo Carrillo State Beach, where windsurfing and kite surfing can keep you entertained for days on end. As I lie on the beach and watch the sun set with friends, conversation often steers to big city life, the kind where the only place to get a tan is a tar-stained rooftop of an apartment block and where hailing a taxi is a dramatic experience involving possible physical danger from fellow taxi hunters.

Back at the magazine I work at in L.A., I recently headed for the film library, pulling out a few documentaries on big city life and commencing a viewing odyssey that still has me captivated, a month down the track.

It’s my pleasure to share my list of Top 5 films on life in the big city with my readers in Marbella:

Ancient Inventions of War, Sex and City Life by the BBC Provocative Nation

by Mauro Clerici and Tonianne Fleig

When we ask ourselves why so many people refuse to recycle or take an active role in solving the environmental problem, the answer lies in the seeming difficulty of it all. Being a pig is much easier than putting the required work into living in a more environmentally sustainable manner, especially in the big city, where pollution, rubbish and massive consumption, are the order of the day. Provocative Nation turns this apathetic ethos on its head, with film makers Mauro Clerici and Tonianne Fleig travelling for over 56 days across the USA to meet people who were living life in a more sustainable fashion, with no dramas.

Tonianne and Mauro drive a hybrid car, recycle their provisions and speak with politicians, farmers, construction workers, members of the food industry, alternative energy companies and people practising refuse recycling, inspiring us to make small changes that have hugely positive effects.

The Emmy winning documentary New York takes us straight to the heart of the big city par excellence; the apotheosis of the very best and worst city life has to offer. In this eight-part documentary, Director, Ric Burns outlines everything from the early history of New York right through to the making of its iconic skyline, its role as the cultural capital of the world, the effects of the Great Depression, migration and the rise and fall of the World Trade Center.

Radiant City: Life in Suburbia

by Gary Burns

Ancient Inventions is a three-part series narrated by the gregarious Terry Jones of Monty Python fame. The first part, City Life, delves into how similar ancient and modern city life are in many respects, with our ancestors having invented many mod cons, including flushable lavatories, paved roads, high rises and fast food… Terry Jones invites the viewer to question whether all this so-called progress we are making is in fact an illusion; if in fact we can learn plenty from our ancestors in terms of how they used science and technology in a more efficient and environmentally sustainable fashion.

Radiant City is a startling look at 21st century suburb dwellers and ever-increasing urban sprawls. Across the Planet, natural landscapes are being eradicated and stripped of their distinctive features, while a group of staunch intellectuals lament the cultural and spiritual void that has taken over.

Author James Howard Kunstler lambasts the de-humanising ambience of street malls, philosopher Joseph Heath warns of the soul-consuming effect of living in the suburbs and urban planner Beverly Sandalack harks back to the days when people used to actually walk from Point A to Point B. The award-winning film sources a variety of cultural references, from popular series The Sopranos right through to American writer and activist, Jane Jacobs, who wrote the outstanding book, The Death and Life of Great American Cities. Jacobs speaks on the role played by neighbourhoods within modern cities, why some neighbourhoods remain poor ones throughout their existence and the dangers of too much development and too little diversity. Her views are some of the most powerfully expressed in the film.

Cities on Speed by the Danish Film Institute

New York: A Documentary Film

by Ric Burns How do we make developments in the non-Western world interesting to people in the West? This question inspired members of the Danish Film Institute to embark upon a film project detailing the development of mega-cities in the non-Western world and the challenges currently faced by over-populated cities like Cairo, Shanghai, Mumbai and Bogota, which are expected to double their populations by the year 2040.

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THEFOCUS

“...and just as the terrified woman heard the slow knocking on the car roof which was the agreed signal between her and her husband that meant she could safely unlock the doors knowing it was him who had returned to their brokendown car in the deserted woods (and not the escaped homicidal lunatic they’d just heard about on the local radio), the area lit up with headlights from police cars and across a loudspeaker, she was instructed, “Get out of your car and walk towards us. Do NOT turn around”...”

A

s I surveyed the faces of the gathered, terrified twelveyear-olds (it’s ok, I was twelve too), I knew that the next line, essentially telling them that the woman ignored the police instructions and turned just a few paces from the car to see the

The Truth Behind

Urban Legends escaped lunatic slowly banging her husband’s decapitated head on the car roof, would secure mine as the very scariest story to be told at the sleepover that night.

Whilst it was not a traditionallytold urban legend in that I didn’t claim to have known any of the parties present (mainly through fear of getting into trouble for lying if the story was reported back to the other girls’ parents, and consequently mine), it was indeed an urban legend. A story passed down as truth, normally inducing either shock or fear, but gripping and memorable enough to be repeated time and time again, and almost always validated by the fact that they happened to a ‘friend of a friend’.

And, as the belief goes, they normally have an encrypted social message within them. Take for example the cautionary tale of the man who meets a beautiful woman in a bar one night and shares a drink with her, only to wake up the following morning in a bath of ice next to a phone and a note instructing him to dial 999. Why? He had been operated on to have his kidney removed, and without urgent medical attention, he would die. And this happens all over the world, if you believe what you hear.

Admittedly, whilst it’s not entirely frowned upon to have a drink with a stranger in a bar, the message

WORDS Amy Williams

regarding the consequences of such ‘immoral’ behaviour is clear.

How these tales become known as ‘urban’ however, isn’t entirely obvious. They neither occur solely in urban locations, nor are told only amongst city dwellers. The most likely of the offered explanations is that it simply differentiates between the legends ‘of old’, passed down through rural communities and concerning rural affairs, and these more modern, contemporary tales.

The term could also be seen as a criticism of modern life, and a reminder that many of the world’s biggest dangers have been brought about by modernity, where once a community spirit and decorum was all that was needed to ensure an individual’s safety. The grandmother who tried to dry (and consequently exploded) her poodle in a microwave, for example, wouldn’t have been able to do so before such ‘modern’ technology was invented.

Ironically, it is modernity, in the form of the Internet, which has been responsible for an explosion in the number of urban legends now circulating globally.

The core urban legends such as the vanishing hitchhiker (a silent passenger who vanishes from the car on arrival at the destination, leaving only a message for the family of a deceased person), or

the killer in the back seat (the story of a single female who leaves a petrol station only to be pursued relentlessly by another driver who incessantly flashes his lights and shunts her car, initially terrifying her, but ultimately saving her life by alerting her to an axe murderer he can see in her back seat), have been replaced by Internet hoaxes and chain emails which can be broadcast with far less effort, and circulated much more efficiently.

So take what you will from urban legends; be entertained, warned, maybe even moved or inspired; but be aware, there is very little truth in any of them. Past and present, were all urban legends to be believed, then repeating ‘Bloody Mary’ into a mirror three times would summon a relativelyirritated spirit; giant albino alligators with a propensity to pop up in any of the city’s toilets would roam the sewers of New York; ‘Jedi’ would be an officially-recognised religion; and scores of teenage American girls who had all at some point been babysitting alone in a big house would have been killed following a series of intimidating phone calls which, as the operator told them all, were being made... from inside the house.

As it happens though, it won’t, they don’t, it isn’t, and they weren’t. Makes for a good story though, doesn’t it? e

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MARBELLA - ESTEPONA ESTATES

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I N V E S T M E N T S

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Urb. Monte Biarritz, Pueblo Jardin, Local 4 29688 Estepona (Málaga) Tel: +34 952 90 42 44 Fax: +34 952 89 68 49 Email: info@marbella-estates.com 148 Marbella Estates.indd 1

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Making Marbella Look Good

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INTERIORS / ARCHITECTURE / ART /

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Urban design, city gardens, working girl fashion and the latest in must-have accessories…

54 Décor: Building the Future 60 Gardening: City Gardening 62 Fashion: Collette Dinnigan Autumn/Winter 2011 70 Fashion News

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THESTYLE DECOR

Building

the future WORDS JESSICA OCAÑA

R

ome, once a small pastoral settlement on the River Tiber in Italy, was the most populated, largest, wealthiest and most politically prominent city in the world for almost a thousand years. At the height of its power, the population was thought to stand at over a million. Rome has brought us many things including Latin, a language of which much of modern English is based upon; the solar calendar, the months of the year, weeks and days; Christianity; our legal system; the census; straight roads and aqueducts, to mention but a few. Rome was without doubt the centre of cultural, political, intellectual power, dominance and wealth. What you might call a megacity, perhaps? At least as far as the ancient world was concerned. Today, Rome’s population stands at approximately 2.7 million.

The monuments of a once-invincible nation are testimony to its great history.

The Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon – all visited by thousands of tourists who come each year to try and understand more about the greatness of our ancient world.

However, as the pendulum of time swings, so other great nations are given the opportunity to shine and grow.

Today, other cities stand as beacons of power and just like ancient Rome, their prominence is admired the world over. Shanghai, for example, one of the largest and most densely-populated cities on earth, replete with slick skyscrapers, renowned for its obsession with innovation and technology, and seen by many in the Western world as not only an example of a modern urban utopia but indeed a futuristic supermetropolis. However, Shanghai is soon be pushed from its place at the top as, in a race to become the biggest and the

best, city planners elsewhere in China have recently announced an ambitious and costly plan to create the world’s largest megacity by merging nine other existing cities that will cover twice the size of Wales with an estimated population of more than 42 million.

Seats of industrial power and economic splendour, the megacities of our future will begin a new chapter in the history of modern humankind.

Now, for the first time in history, more people are choosing to live in cities than in the countryside. Seen as centres of social and economic opportunity, cities across the globe are swelling in number with colossal intensity. So much so that there are now 21 cities in the world whose populations stand at more than 10 million. By definition, a megacity is precisely that; an urban metropolis where the census is in excess of 10 million people. So, that’s twenty-one heaving, noisy cities, whose offer of a brighter and better future comes at a cost and not only a financial one; pollution, extreme lack of space and the stresses of being part of the global rat-race are just some of the inconveniences of urban living.

If China’s idea for urban expansion catches on, megacities will begin to pop up all over the planet where populations will stand not at tens of millions but hundreds of millions. A far cry from the rural, sparsely populated landscapes in which our prehistoric ancestors evolved, urban living in the modern world may well increase welfare and employment prospects. However, it will also be synonymous of extreme stress as families are forced to adapt to life in ever-decreasing spaces with diminishing rural and green areas, which would consequently lead to an

increase in pollution-related health problems. And, as we know, not every nation on Earth flaunts the affluence of super powers such as China and Japan.

Some of the most populated countries in the world are also among the poorest. Megacities such as these are not examples of financial magnificence, but quite the opposite. People are forced to live in slums: substandard homes characterised by inferior living conditions and squalor. Overcrowded and lacking in tenure security, urban infrastructure in megacities like this is largely dysfunctional and electricity and water, which we take for granted, are considered luxuries. But, as long as urban living provides the promise of a better future for those who need it or want it, humankind will strive to find a space there. Some will be able to afford the best money can buy and others will simply have to make do.

What’s more, faced with the knockon effects of a global recession as well as global-warming, the population of modern urban capitals around the world will strive to make their choice for space as affordable and sustainable as possible, without compromising too much on quality of life. Already so-called eco-cities or sustainable cities are being developed. Dedicated to the minimisation of required inputs of energy, water and food, and waste output of air and heat pollution, ecocities are powered as much as possible with renewable sources of energy and strive to rely as little as possible on the surrounding countryside. Urban planners and architects around the globe are being faced with the exciting challenge of how to design and build the foundations of our sustainable society as cheaply and quickly as possible.

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In London – the 23rd largest megacity in the world with a population of approximately 7.7 million – urban dwellers have long been feeling the pinch of a global recession. Although the economy has grown steadily richer over the last few decades not all its citizens have shared in the good fortune.

The housing problem is one of both affordability and availability and average income earners, not to mention those who have below average incomes, are struggling to afford homes in the capital, opting to rent or to live in suburban areas and pay expensive commuter costs instead. Helping to overcome this dilemma, the British company Container City™ has come up with an innovative and highly versatile system that provides stylish and affordable accommodation, by using standard shipping containers. The latter, produced cheaply in China and used only once or twice, provide high strength, pre-fabricated steel modules that can be combined to create

everything from homes, to offices to retail spaces and educational centres. Devised by Urban Space Management Ltd, the Container City™ system has been commended by both UK government and private sectors alike, as this unique solution reduces construction time and costs, and is significantly more environmentally friendly. Minimal artificial light is required as the modules have fullyglazed facades; natural ventilation means that there is no need for air conditioning; the construction is offsite and the installation fast, meaning that noise pollution is reduced; and the modules are thermally efficient as they are built with external walkways and lift towers as well as having doubly thick insulation and south facing glazed units. They are also built with the possibility of installing features such as rain water harvesting tanks, wind turbines, green roofs and plant nurseries.

Brightly coloured Lego-like blocks, with or without balconies, stacked in unique formations, these residential

container cities already exist in the heart of London’s Docklands.

Container City I, as it is known, has been created with over 80 per cent recycled material and was completed in just five months, providing affordable apartments across 4,800 square feet.

A unique concept, the idea of prefabricated container homes has taken off all over the world. In Amsterdam, a solution to the lack of affordable student homes was found in the construction of one of the largest container cities in the world. Launched by a company called Tempohousing, the container city of Keetwonen has proved to be one of the most popular options for student accommodation. Thought at first to be too small, too noisy, too cold or too hot, the reality of living in the temporary container units is that they are spacious, quiet and well insulated, and needless to say offer students excellent value for money as well as providing a sustainable solution to urban housing.

Colourful, space-saving container cities may proliferate in the future © Container City UK

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The well-insulated walls, unfolding segments and reflective white allow light into Blob VB3, saving significant energy.

The Blob VB3 has similar fittings to a well-insulated caravan

© Frederik Vercruysse

From urban designs that work to urban concepts that show exceptional design flare, young Belgian architectural firm dmvA has created a mobile unit as an extension of the house that can be used as an office or temporary home. Given the restraints of lower budget architectural design, the blob VB3 project, which looks very much like an egg or space-age pod, boasts a bathroom, kitchen, bed, interior lighting and storage space, all in only 20m2 of space! The front of the blob opens automatically and functions as a kind of porch. Made of polyester, this design is easily transportable and therefore has very low installation costs.

Although, not a practical solution to the problem of urban living in megacities, blob VB3 shows the kind of initiative and forward thinking architects are fostering in light of changes to growing and increasingly over-crowded urban cityscapes.

Take for example, Japanese architect Jo Nagasaka of Schemata Architecture Office Ltd and his 63.02° project. Built in an extremely densely populated residential area in Nakano, Tokyo, 63.02° is wedged like a book on a shelf amongst the surrounding buildings. A free standing property, the Schemata design is placed at an angle of exactly 63.02° from the access road, hence the name of the project. Defined by sharp angles and large window facades, despite the small size and surrounding clutter of concrete blocks, this design shows how a feeling of light and space doesn’t have to be compromised when building the urban home of the future.

Lovers of modern design dream of living in Jo Nagasaka’s 63.02º house © Takumi Ota Photography

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Vegetables grow beautifully with groundbreaking Window Farm technology

Window farms are effective and highly decorative © Windowfarms

But, with all this talk of rethinking urban living design and growing populations, are we forgetting about the important role plants play in city living? Finding space for plants in our concrete jungles is a necessity if we’re to move towards truly sustainable eco cities and improved quality of urban life. We need plants for oxygen and we need oxygen to breath. Obvious though it may seem, plants are essential for life on our planet. However, we’ve already looked at the issue of overcrowded, heaving megacities and how we can fit people into urban landscapes, but how are we to approach the issue of finding space for plant life too?

Focusing on this very problem, the company Windowfarms™, began with a project carried out in 2009 by US artists Britta Riley and Rebecca Bray. It was Riley who came up with the idea when she realised that living in a 5-storey walk-up in Brooklyn, New York, meant she was unable to grow her own fruit and vegetables.

Rooftop growing wasn’t possible and so harnessing the light in the window plus year-round climate control of an apartment seemed like the only solution. Vertical, hydroponic farming systems (farming without soil) under the name of Windowfarms™ can

be installed in homes and offices alike. The systems aren’t growing machines, however; they still require the human touch and they grow all year round. But how do they work?

A pump on a timer periodically circulates the liquid nutrients through each column of plants in a closed loop. Water is moved from the bottom reservoir to the top plant bottle via an ‘air-lift’ system powered by an aquarium air pump. Water trickles down from bottle to bottle, through the plants’ hairy root networks, and any unabsorbed nutrient solution is collected again as it trickles into the bottom reservoir bottle. All of the materials used to make windowfarms are recycled and their installation is easy and economical. Vertical farming is the new trend in urban agriculture and offers an excellent, environmentally-sound solution to the lack of green in urban dwellings and surroundings. Similarly, many urban neighbourhoods (particularly low income ones) in cities around the world have very little accessible and available fresh food, meaning that residents tend to consume cheaper processed, packaged or frozen foods lacking in necessary nutrients for human health. Those already using the Windowfarms have grown lettuce, mint, thyme, tomatoes, basil and peas, to mention but a few.

So, what will the cities of our future look like? Will we be living in costly Everest-size skyscrapers, or economical and environmentally sound containers and pods? Or, should we be looking to our past for inspiration, to those who built Rome

and the buildings which have stood the test of time? Will we be growing our fresh produce in soil-free farms?

Perhaps we will have invented a way to survive without plants. The future is of course an eternal ‘What if?’, but with populations around the world growing and the issue of space becoming more and more relevant, those urban planners and architects whose job it will be to design the buildings of our future have no easy task on their hands. I applaud all those involved in trying to shape and improve the next chapter of urban living, after all, Rome wasn’t built in a day. e © Po Ewing

SCHEMATA ARCHITECTURE OFFICE LTD www.schemata.com TAKUMI OTA PHOTOGRAPHY www.phota.jp CONTAINER CITY UK www.containercity.com WINDOWFARMS TM www.windowfarms.org BLOB VB3 www.dmva-architecten.be

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THESTYLE GARDENING

urban

conceptS

words by Richard Whaley Director of Richard Whaley Landscaping, a garden design and construction company established in 1987.

Some may think that living in an urban location equals no outside experience but it ain’t necessarily so…

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ven the smallest of spaces have the potential to become your personal Versailles, Ryoan-ji Zen, or Dali-esque themed space. All it takes is a little imagination and sometimes, a bit of help, to turn your home into an exciting, calming, inviting or sexy place.

The main problem in urban garden design is lack of space. It’s the one stumbling block designers have to overcome in order to build something spectacular.

Designers need to be more creative to make a small space as attractive, or even more so, than a larger space.

The first step is to visually lengthen and widen a space.

There are a lot of tricks that designers and homeowners use to give the illusion of space. A rather cheap but effective trick is the incorporation of mirrors in the urban garden design concept or the use of light shades to paint the walls. Taking

advantage of vertical space can also enhance the beauty of your urban garden design.

Use attractive and uniform shelves and hanging pots.

You can also install trellises to hide unattractive walls and boundaries.

Another trick is to lessen the variety of plants you wish to include in your urban garden design idea.

You wouldn’t want the space looking too busy and crowded. Research carefully into the plants you wish to use to make sure that you can keep up with their maintenance requirements.

If you’re too busy, droughtresistant plants that require little watering should be your option. If you have the time, you can go for high maintenance vegetables or flowering plants. The most recommended flowering plants for any urban garden design are zinnias, tulips, begonias, daffodils, blackeyed susan, lantana, and

petunias. Equally ideal are phormiums, jasmines, euryops, ferns (for shady areas).

These are all suitable for container gardening and produce blooms of the brightest colours and most beautiful shapes. Contrary to popular belief, some varieties of trees and shrubs can also be added to an urban garden design plan. Bougainvilleas, dwarf varieties of roses, and citrus trees, and the Japanese maple can grow well in containers and narrow spaces. If you wish to take your daily produces from your urban garden, you can also grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Radishes, carrots, courgettes, figs, and certain varieties of tomatoes and cucumber can grow well in pots and containers without much fuss. Herbs like parsley, thyme, basil, sage, and rosemary can also do well in containers and can make your small space

smell good all season long.

These types of plants can be incorporated into your urban garden design plan through window boxes that you can move around once the season changes.

If your space is large enough for larger plants, take advantage. It’s a myth that large trees make small spaces feel small. Large plants distort boundaries and hence give a feeling of expanse.

So don’t worry if you only have a small spae to fill.

Make a sketch of the plants you wish to group together or use free, or trial gardening software to have a visual of the garden you want. Develop an urban garden design plan and carefully execute your ideas. This will ensure that your urban garden becomes a must-see feature of your home.

All in all, make the best of your small space… Think big! e

g For any questions, or landscape design enquiries: rvwhaley@gmail.com or Tel: 676 331 700.

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THESTYLE FASHION

WORKING GIRL

From Naomi Watts to Halle Berry, Nicole Kidman to Angelina Jolie, Hollywood’s trendiest stars are battling it out to get their hands on the latest collections of South African-born designer, Collette Dinnigan, famed for her use of bold colours, graphic lines and kaleidoscopic textures, and her distinctly sophisticated designs. Her Autumn/Winter 2011 collection features structured shapes and sumptuous tailoring, harking to the athletic luxe of the equestrian world, with lace jodhpurs and metallic jacquard skirts holding sway. The outfits feature delicately hand-made materials, including Belle blossom, Italian lace brocade, noir French Chantilly lace, Venetian wool, Rococo embroidered organza and forest fur.

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URBAN WOMAN PORTRAIT OF AN

CITY Slick

Collette Dinnigan Autumn/ Winter 2011

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URBAN beats

CITY SKYLIGHTS

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TAKE ME

MET

to the

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MIDNIGHT

PARIS

IN

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CITY

SEX IN the

i www.collettedinnigan.com.au

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THESTYLE FASHION

Evening clutch by Kaprice

Kate Middletoninspired necklace by Claudia Bradby

Dress by Benetton

Bangles by Dior

THE SEASON FOR WATCHING THE SUN SET FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BEACH CLUB MAY BE DRAWING TO A CLOSE BUT THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT AUTUMN/WINTER FASHION COLLECTIONS ARE ALREADY IN THE SHOPS, SEDUCING YOU WITH THEIR CHIC FACTOR AND ELEGANCE. MARISA CUTILLAS BRINGS YOU THIS MONTH’S TOP BUYS.

Mixed yarn bootcuff

by Accessorize

Clutch bag by Monsoon

Bag by Accessorize

Earrings by Accessorize

Boots by Benetton

Bag by Dior Dress by Benetton Rings by Line Argent

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Ice Cube rings by Chopard Earrings by Roger M

Dress by Monsoon

La Vie en Rose watch by Chopard

Boots by Dior

g ACCESSORIZE www.accessorize.com BENETTON www.benetton.com CHOPARD www.chopard.com CLAUDIA BRADBY www.claudiabradby.com DIOR www.dior.com KAPRICE kaprice@biznetvigator.com LINE ARGENT Available at Joyería Mario de la Rubia. C/ Padre Francisco Echamendi 7, Marbella.

Tel: 952 770 843.

MONSOON www.monsoon.co.uk ROGER M www.rogermjeweller.com

WHO’S

?

T A H W G N I R A WE Bar Rafaeli kills the red carpet in these stunning diamond drop earrings by Chopard.

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TREATMENTS / PRODUCTS / Beauty / SPA / SCIENCE / health

The latest treatments, health updates and summer beauty guide‌

74 The ageLOC Galvanic Spa System Facial 76 Beauty News 78 City Life or Country Life?

80 Health News 82 Health Profile: Wizard of Nutrition, Dr. Katz

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Cosmetic Surgery | Non Surgical Procedures | Cosmetic Dentistry

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Dr. Marco Vricella is Director of the Aesthetic Surgery unit at HC Marbella Private Hospital.

Call (+34) 952 895 088 in English (+34) 662 936 058 en Español

BEAUTY

The ageLOC Galvanic Spa System Facial WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NUSKIN

TARGET THE SOURCE OF

AGEING

M

y best friends know that if they want to give me something I love for a special occasion, it’s got to be a full body massage rather than a facial. My preference is probably influenced by many years of research in the beauty and cosmetic industry. Like many women, I am somewhat jaded by the plethora of ads for creams and serums promising they can turn back time, erase wrinkles and practically source the fountain of youth. It is common to find creams costing €200 or more despite the fact that their benefits are mostly superficial. Elastin and collagen, the stuff that keeps us young, is manufactured in the deeper layers of the dermis so if any facial is going to work, it’s got to stimulate cells to produce these vital proteins; what causes skin to age, sag and wrinkle, is basically the slowing down of their production.

This is why I’ve always had a great deal of respect for the Nuskin company; founded over 27 years ago in Utah in the USA, it boasts a $1.55 billion annual revenue and, owing to its ‘direct selling’ system, it is one of the companies with more millionaires to its name in the world; 740 (plus one more millionaire every five days), to be exact, all espousing the joys of being their own boss and making a pretty penny to boot. My interest

in Nuskin stemmed less from the marketing aspect and more from the beauty side, since their patented ageLOC product and Galvanic Spa system, promise something store-bought products cannot deliver: real results, deep down where it counts.

It all begins with the products; Nuskin is a company that is strong on research and their major breakthrough consists in having identified ‘youth gene clusters’ which can be ‘re-set’ in order to recover younger, firmer skin.

The company’s ageLOC products are touted as being no less than revolutionary, and they are given an important boost by a small machine you can use at home called the Galvanic Spa System.

This device produces negative and positive currents to deliver products deeper into the dermis and to make the kind of change that normal application cannot.

For an in-depth explanation of the technique behind Nuskin products, the book The Aging Myth by Nuskin chief scientist, Joe Chang, is recommended.

I recently experienced the Galvanic Spa System facial with a Nuskin therapist, whom I asked to work on only one half of my face, so I could better appreciate the ‘before and after’ effect. She pulled out the little

portable device (about as small as an electric depilator with a metallic ‘head’) and explained that it delivers visible results in as little as five minutes two to three times a week (clients can purchase the machine, which is affordable and easy to use and clean).

The treatment is divided into two steps: first, a negatively charged pre-treatment gel is applied to the face and the machine is set on ‘negative’. What this does is to help the gel bind to impurities in the pores, and to relax and soften the latter as excess oil and grime is released. Part two consists of the application of a second gel, this time positively charged, which draws out the impurities, enhances hydration and stimulates activity in the gene clusters. As you can imagine, the machine is ideal for those suffering from stubborn acne, since it is a whiz at removing impurities. The Galvanic Spa System is meant for more than the face; the therapist tells me it is also used to shape the body, encourage hair growth and target deep lines in the face (it has different programmes and

‘treatment heads’).

The facial was quick but relaxing and the good part was that a few minutes later, I could definitely see the difference: the treated side of my face was firmer, the pores smaller and the feel of my skin was silky smooth, compared to the rough, impure sensation on the other side. The best thing is that it is a quick treatment you can give yourself at home while watching TV or reading a book.

If you are after a system that truly makes a difference; that encourages your skin to produce elastin and collagen like it used to in your youth, the Galvanic Spa System and ageLOC products by Nuskin are a wonderful solution.

And if you’re looking to expand your income or be your own boss, you may be interested in becoming a distributor yourself or using your own machine to give facials to friends and family. “All of the good, none of the bad,” is one of Nuskin’s most oft-quoted mottos and the adage is equally applicable to the results it produces in the aesthetic and economic spheres. i For further information,

www.nuskin.com

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100% Natural Lip Roll-On by The Body Shop PRODUCTS

This lovely, transparent gloss is not only completely free of harmful parabens and preservatives, it also comes in five flavours that are highly addictive: mint, berry, rose, orange and coconut; all wonderfully fresh and long-lasting. i www.thebodyshop.com

Mineralize All-Over Lotion by MAC

This luscious face-and-body lotion, formulated with MAC’s diamond-infused charges water technology, leaves skin silky smooth and blends beautifully with pigments or foundations, sheering the latter out and restoring balance to dry skin. i www.maccosmetics.es

Mosaic Powder by Clarins This multi-toned bronzer is ideal for ladies who want to keep their summer tan lasting at least until the end of Autumn. Bearing an original mosaic designed, it is scented with Clarins’ Sunshine fragrance, fresh and vibrant like the summer you grudgingly said goodbye to. i www-clarins.com

releases from top st te la ry ve e th s st te d an s Marisa Cutillas trie commended items are: re ’s th on m is Th s. rm fi ic et cosm Idealist Cooling Eye Illuminator by Estée Lauder

This lovely cooling product targets lines, bag and dark circles under the eyes, making an instant difference. It contains a touch of pigment, which means it can be used as a concealer. It comes in two shades: one for pale and another for darker, skin. i www.esteelauder.es

Charged Water Skin Hydrating Mist by MAC

This transparent spritz by MAC moisturises and revitalises skin thanks to a high content of ions obtained from rhodocrosite and a cocktail of antioxidants that fights free radicals in the environment. It bears a lovely scent of grapefruit/tangerine, and can be used either throughout the day or under make-up to help it set. i www.maccosmetics.es

Delipscious Tinted Lip Balm by The Body Shop

If you like the glossy look but you want to sport darker colours this winter, your best bet is a tinted lip balm from The Body Shop’s new Delipscious range. Made with Community trade cocoa butter, it replenishes moisture levels and is deliciously edible. i www.thebodyshop.com

Lisse Minute Instant Smooth Line Correcting Concentrate by Clarins

This new concentrate is enriched with a peptide called dermaxyl and line correcting pigments which diminish the appearance of wrinkles. It works wonderfully under make-up and also reduces pore size. i www.clarins.com

Autumn/Winter 2011 Nail Polish collection

by Chanel The summer saw lots of crazy colours like aqua, lime green and lemon yellow hold sway in the nail polish sphere, and the craze for bold looks extends into winter, according to Chanel. Choose from graphite, peridot and quartz for a metallic, bold statement. i www.chanel.com

Idealist Even Skin Tone Illuminator by Estée Lauder

One of womens’ biggest bugbears is undoubtedly uneven skin tone; no matter how much foundation you apply, sun spots, acne and general differences in skin tone can give a sloppy, unpolished look to your complexion. In steps this lovely new illuminator by Estée Lauder, which addresses problems for all ethnicities and skin tones, leaving your skin with a lovely, even glow about two weeks after you first staring using it. i www.esteelauder.es

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Facelift Blepharoplasty Rhinoplasty Otoplasty Abdominoplasty Breast lift/ augmentation/ reduction/ Labiaplasty Liposuction Thigh lift Brachioplasty Scar correction Deep Peeling Botox - Filler Dental aesthetics Facial feminization

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Av. Ramon y Cajal, 7 / 29600 Marbella 951 775 518 / Mob : 670 770 455 info@oceanclinic.net / www. oceanclinic.net

Winner Marbella Awards 2010 Specialist Clinic

LIFESTYLE

City Mouse or Country Mouse?

WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS

T

he film A Good Year, starring Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe, is a sentimental homage to country life; a moving poem highlighting the beauty of wide open spaces, free growing vegetation, good conversation and above all, great wine. Despite being a fan of the film’s director, Ridley Scott, I couldn’t help but consider his ode to all things bucolic a bit over-the-top. In ancient times, poets such as Ovid extolled the virtues of the natural life but what did they know about the excitement of walking along Broadway, breathing in the heady blend of pollution, perfume and culinary aromas on Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok or feeling your spirit rise as you stand before your favourite designer shop on Calle Serrano in Madrid? When you grow up in the city and you move to the outskirts, you crave the former like a breath of fresh, or rather, not-so-fresh air… sadly, the latest news is once again ringing alarm bells, making it seem like the only good move is to pack up and head for the hills, very much like the impetuous character in the movie.

City life is copping a lot of flack from health professionals and it’s all due to a recent study published in the journal, Nature. It has long been known that mental conditions such as schizophrenia, anxiety and depression are more common in urbanites than rural dwellers, but now, scientists know why.

The study involved subjecting healthy adults living in three types of areas – big cities, medium-

sized towns and rural areas – to a test. The subjects were asked to answer complex mathematical problems while being criticised for their performance. Those who lived in big cities reacted more strongly to the stress, showing greater activity in the amygdala (the ‘emotional centre’ of the brain which regulates fear, depression and anxiety).

Moreover, even subjects who no longer lived in big cities but who grew up there showed greater activity in the anterior cingulate cortex, which regulates the amygdala’s activity. Conversely, those who grew up in the country and then moved to the city, showed a lesser reaction to stress.

The researchers were not sure exactly what it is about city life that is so distressing, but stated: “There’s prior evidence that if someone invades your personal space, comes too close to you, it’s exactly that amygdala-cingulate circuit that gets switched on, so it could be something as simple as population density that triggers the changes in the brain.”

This study may have made the news in newspapers all over the world, but it isn’t exactly new in its findings. In 2008, a similar study published in the journal Psychological Science came to a similar conclusion.

In the latter, healthy adults were told to walk in an urban environment and in a natural area. Afterwards, researchers read out sequences of numbers to participants, asking them to repeat the sequence in reverse order. After walking in natural

surrounds, subjects showed a 20 per cent improvement in their memory compared to when they had walked along city streets.

Researchers don’t know what it is about city life that so affects our mental state, though it may be the barrage of competing stimuli (sights, noises, smells) that makes us function less efficiently in heavily populated areas.

The scientists involved in the study published in Nature are now taking their investigation further, comparing the brains of migrants and non-migrants living in the same city, who “have different social environments”.

Social interaction being only one of so many possible factors, our wait for determinative results is likely to be long and weary, so in the meantime, we can try a few measures which are proven stress-busters, whether you live in the city or the country:

Z Music: Make time daily to listen to what you like; this cherished activity releases ‘feel-good’ dopamine into the brain, affecting everything from your heart rate right through to your breathing and body temperature.

Z Meditation: This isn’t just for yoga practitioners; meditation and focused chanting positively affect the brain regions associated with memory, sense of self, empathy, and stress, according to an article in the journal Psychiatry Research: Neurology.

Z Stock up on stress-busting vitamins, especially C and B-complex. Popular adaptogens like Korean and Siberian ginseng have been found to improve brain function.

Z Exercise: If you can’t avoid having stress, get rid of it with a daily workout.

Z Eat anti-oxidant rich foods and avoid refined carbohydrates and caffeine.

And if you’re not happy with the results, take heart in the following ‘positive’ facts: suicide rates are lower in big cities, as is the rate of obesity, and the city offers better health care, nutritional options and sanitation. And in case you hadn’t notice, cities are a hell of a lot more fun! e

Max Skinner:

This place does not suit my life.

Fanny Chenal:

No Max, it’s your life that does not suit this place from A Good Year (2006)

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WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS

UPDATE

If you need to lose weight and you feel like you need psychological support as well as the attention of a personal trainer and proper nutritional programme, a week at the Marbles Weight Loss Retreat may be just what you need.

The week-long retreat, which takes place in a rural haven, isn’t your standard boot camp; it involves a personalised programme which will help you get the maximum benefit from your experience. A typical day with Marbels involves a host of actiities including trekking in the countryside, Pilates, yoga and aqua aerobics, classes with your personal trainer, deep tissue body massages, reflexology, hypnotherapy, cuisine demonstrations, lectures and a choice of extra-curricular activities including canoeing, abseiling, quad biking, etc. There is also a new intensive bootcamp which is an exhilarating and extreme fitness programme run by ex-military professionals. i For further information, Tel: 608 486 068.

>Foods for Weight Loss

Isn’t weight loss about starving and avoiding yummy foods as a whole?

It seems that the answer is that it’s not necessarily how much you eat but rather what you eat. If you are stuck for a healthy snack at home or you don’t know what to order at a restaurant or incorporate into your daily routine, we recommend the following ‘skinny’ foods:

www.marblesweightloss.com

> Marbles

Weight Loss Retreat: A Kickstart to a New Healthy Lifestyle Oscar nominated star Scarlett Johansson may have the ideal curvy body but she works hard to keep it that way. Her trainer, Bobby Strom, recently told the press how he helps her keep her weight in check, citing kick boxing, weight training, free weights and machines, kettle bell, pyrometrix, core strengthening, stability and balance exercises as key, not to forget Olympic lifting and sprints.

Bobby also provided us with a list of dieting tips we’re sure we can all benefit from. Bobby says:

Z Almonds: Just 25 grams of this power nut contains three grams of fibre and six grams of protein, which tend to make you feel full. An article in the American Journal of Nutrition found that women who consumed nuts twice as week tended to keep weight off more successfully than those who didn’t.

Z Eggs: The International Journal of Obesity recently published some astonishing findings, including that dieters who consumed two eggs for breakfast five days a week lost 65 per cent more than dieters consuming a wheat-based breakfast. Eggs have a high protein content and tend to keep you satisfied for a longer period of time than, say, toast or cereal.

Z Salmon: The International Journal of Obesity also claims that including salmon in your diet can lead to a weight loss of almost a kilo more per week compared

to those who do not consume it.

Z Green Tea: Research indicates that daily consumption of green tea can stimulate your metabolism, so drink up, especially at the end of a long working day, when you’re most tempted to snack.

Z Cherries: There are two reasons cherries can help you munch away to a size zero. First, research has found that it is important to chew food various times before swallowing it, so a sense of satiety is registered in the brain. Cherries, which have pits and skin, necessitate more chewing and are therefore helpful in giving you that full, satisfied feeling.

Cherries also have the lowest glycemic index of fruits and one of the lowest of all carbohydrates. Therefore, they do not play havoc with your insulin levels.

>

Bobby Strom’s Tips for a Bod like Scarlett Johansson Z Have any dessert you want, but only have one bite.

Z Eat five small meals a day.

Z Avoid refined carbohydrates like pasta and bread and stay away from sweets and fast food.

Z Get into the habit of making fresh juices at home with raw ingredients like fresh kale, celery, beetroot, carrot, green apple

and ginger.

Z Your daily fat content should come from healthy sources like extra virgin olive oil, almonds and avocado Z Consume lots of lean protein like eggs and fish and lots of vegetables.

Z Give in to temptation with favourite treats like cheese and chocolate, but only once a week.

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DAVID L. KATZ

PROFILE

DOCTOR TO THE STARS W hether you’re a man or woman, forty-something or twenty-something, you probably lament the demise of the Oprah Winfrey talk show.

Think of all the people ‘The Big O’ has helped make famous like Dr. Phil (psychologist), Dr. Oz (cardiothoracic surgeon, health advisor) or Maya Angelou (author and poet). From Deepak to Tupac, Cruise to Cruz, they’ve all shared their knowledge, projects and dreams with us through Oprah, as is the case with our health profile this month, Dr. David L. Katz, Founding Director of the Yale University Prevention Research Center, Editor-in-Chief of the Childhood Obesity Journal, and Inventor of a groundbreaking, new way to help people make healthy choices when they shop for food.

Dr. Katz is best known as a leading nutritionist, avid combatant against processed, cholesterol infused foods, and

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passionate believer in the ability of even the most obese nations of the world to make a 180º turnaround and start afresh, with a simple, healthy diet he believes is the cornerstone to the prevention of conditions like cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Interestingly, he initially planned on specialising in Internal Medicine, but during his residency, he noticed that “eight out of ten hospital patients would not have been there if they had done things differently in the preceding decade and in some cases, longer.” This led to an interest in what he calls “the big picture”: the underlying cause of diseases, the most serious of which he discovered are influenced by three modifiable behaviours: tobacco use, exercise and dietary patterns. “What we do with our feet, our forks and our fingers are of the essence,” he says. Quitting smoking, working out and changing nutritional patterns are the very basis of a long, healthy life. Dr. Katz went on to complete a Preventative Medicine Residency at the University of Yale, focusing on nutrition and lifestyle in the prevention of chronic disease.

During his studies, Dr. Katz grew particularly concerned about juvenile diabetes, which used to be a disease first encountered by the middle-aged but which was appearing in alarming rates in children. He was equally hard hit by an article which listed that the fourth leading cause of all deaths in the USA was diabetes. The authors of the article concluded that roughly half of all deaths were premature or deferrable, and once again, three crucial factors were mentioned: tobacco, exercise and nutrition. Dr. Katz

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

chose from then on to dedicate his entire life to encouraging people to make the right lifestyle choices, a difficult feat for many since he sees modern man as “a polar bear in the desert”, unsuited to his environment, which “monumentally conspires against the pursuit of health” with its mod cons, convenient transport system and readily available food supplies.

Dr. Katz has taken a multilayered approach to fighting the ‘conspirators’. First, he says, it should be easy to select nutritious food. Alongside eminent doctors such as the President of the

American Cancer Society, the American Diabetes Association, the Chair of Nutrition of Harvard etc., he devised the unique NuVal system, which rates foods from 1-100 according to their nutritional value. The rating, which appears on the packaging of products in collaborating supermarkets in the USA, makes it easy even for children to purchase healthy foods, without having to memorise long lists of carcinogenic ‘E’s which should be avoided, tackle complicated terms (like ‘partially

hydrogenated oil’) or count grams of fibre, sugar, etc. Think of how fantastic it would be to visit a supermarket and compare two different breads say, one of which had a Nuval score of 24 and the other a score of 55. Which do you think you would buy?

Dr. Katz has written various books, including top seller The Flavor Point Diet, which espouses the interesting and unique theory that eating too many flavours at once leads to over-eating and that in order to satiate your appetite, it is best to stick to fewer flavours. He is also highly active in educating children in preventative health, founding programmes such as ABC (Activity Burst in the Classroom), which encourages schoolteachers to lead kids through brief bursts of activity whenever children need it. “When kids are restless, not paying attention, apathetic, instead of just wasting their time saying ‘sit still, keep your hands to yourself, pay attention,’ take them through an activity burst.” Dr. Katz also teaches kids about nutrition, having found the irresistibly fun programme, Nutrition Detectives, which encourages kids to read beyond the captivating packaging and find culprits such as hidden sugars, refined ingredients and trans fats. He has reported great results in children with issues such as ADHD and asthma. Dr. Katz is working just as hard with adults, encouraging the American government to provide incentives to patients who follow preventative programmes or who quit smoking or lose weight. He also believes that it is up to us to change what is on supermarket shelves. Once we change the demand, supply follows and we take our first steps towards a long and healthy life.

g www.davidkatzmd.com 22/8/11 14:44:00

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business & product launches / seasonal parties / charity events / social scene

We have been out and about following the most important and glamorous events taking place in the Marbella area. Did you miss out this month, or can you spot yourself?

86 Carmen Steffens: Fashionable Boutique Opens in the Centre of Marbella 87 Las Vegas Comes to Marbella at The Millionaires’ Annual White Summer Party 88 Concordia Gala at the Hotel Marbella Club 89 Starlite Gala at the Hotel Villa Padierna 90 Star-studded Cancer Charity Gala at the Hotel Villa Padierna

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THEVIBE

Carmen Steffens: Fashionable Boutique Opens in the Centre of Marbella Vertiginous high heels, soft leather bags and gorgeous accessories were only some of the items that kept fashionistas utterly fascinated at the opening of the first Carmen Steffens boutique in Spain, in the centre of Marbella. The designer was joined by singing sensation, Marta Sánchez and musician and MTV star, Mario Vaquerizo for a party to be remembered, with live music, glittering outfits and never-ending trays of cocktails making for one of the hottest nights of the season.

“These shoes are made for strutting…”

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PHOTOGRAPHY Johnny Gates PHOTOGRAPHY Johnny Gates ñl download your photo from www.i-marbella.com 24/8/11 18:48:38

THEVIBE

Las Vegas Comes to Marbella at The Millionaires’ Annual White Summer Party Marbella showed the world that it’s still got all the sparkle it takes to host the party of a lifetime: The Millionaires’ Annual White Summer Party, which delighted members of the jetset with An Evening from Las Vegas. The show paid homage to the city of lights in its heyday, with a concert featuring music from a 22piece orchestra and world-class performers singing the very best Frank Sinatra and Shirley Bassey hits, as well as the ultimate in cool: The Barry White Experience, featuring the wonderful Ric Conley. Guests shook their booties to Studio 54 disco tracks, spun by DJ Rusty Egan until the early hours.

“Hot Summer Night; Cool Chic Party!”

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THEVIBE

Concordia Gala at the Hotel Marbella Club Carmen Lomana and Cari Lapique are two of Spain’s most envied socialites and their presence added a welcome touch of glamour to an already legendary event on the Coast: the AIDS fundraising gala held

by Concordia at the Hotel Marbella Club. Princess María Luisa, one of the most active members of Concordia, brimmed over with excitement about the new Concordia magazine and new inroads being made into the treatment of AIDS. The gala proved that when it comes to helping those in need, members of the Marbella jetset really know how to pull out all the stops!

“Andalé, Andalé! Viva Concordia!”

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PHOTOGRAPHY johnny gates PHOTOGRAPHY Johnny Gates ñl download your photo from www.i-marbella.com 24/8/11 18:49:36

THEVIBE

Starlite Gala at the Hotel Villa Padierna Marbella was the Mecca of all things glam at the Starlite Gala, where Hollywood celebrities such as Melanie Griffith and Eva Longoria, and our very own Antonio Banderas, decked out in elegant outfits for a charitable night. Guests, including a host of wellknown stars, tucked into a lavish feast at the Villa Padierna Hotel and partied the night away at Puro Beach afterwards beneath a starlit summer sky.

“Stars shine brightly at the Starlite Gala�

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THEVIBE

Star-studded Cancer Charity Gala at the Hotel Villa Padierna Members of the Marbella jetset made their way to the Hotel Villa Padierna to show their support for the Spanish Cancer Association (AECC), enjoying a truly memorable evening with live entertainment and the chance to rub shoulders with some of Spain’s most famous personalities, including bullfighter Jaime Ostos, fortune teller Rappel and TV presenter, José Manuel Parada, who boosted the bling factor of this fabulous fundraising event.

“Another great fund-raiser at Villa Padierna”

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PHOTOGRAPHY i-marbella 24/8/11 18:50:18

FINANCE / LAW

ENTERPRISE

NEWS /ENTERPRISE / LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILES /

New Loewe Boutique at El Corte Inglés When it comes to fine leather ware, beautifully soft bags and upmarket fashion, few brands quite cut it like Loewe, the Spanish firm whose boutique in the centre of Madrid is a must-visit for any self-respecting fashionable tourist. The good news for trendy shoppers in Marbella is that there is a brand new Loewe shop in El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús, featuring all your favourite fashion and gift items, including bags, belts, scarves and accessories. g

El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990. www.elcorteingles.es

Mister and Miss Marbella Competition at Guey The exotic, starlit terrace of Guey Restaurant & Skybar was the chosen setting for the election of Miss and Mister Marbella 2011, a contest participated in by 30 gorgeous men and women. The beauty kings and queens lit up the catwalk in casual wear from Esencia Adlib Ibiza, and swimwear and evening wear by Marbella designer Carmen Piedra. The jury comprised entrepreneurs and members of the jetset, including Mario Guarnieri, Natasha Romanov and Monica Gil. The Mister Marbella 2011 title was won by 21-year-old Miguel Rodríguez Alcántara, while the new Miss Marbella is 19-year-old Carmen Muñoz Galindo. g Plaza de las Orquídeas 4, Marbella.

*

Tel: 952 929 250. www.gueymarbella.com

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Fine & Country Hold Open House It isn’t every day of the week you’re lucky enough to view the interior of a €5 million house and Fine & Country’s open house for its exquisite La Casa Verde was a resounding success. La Casa Verde, which stands on a 881m2 plot, has been completely refurbished for luxurious, intelligent living, featuring the very latest in Domotics, quality fittings and cutting edge design. The palatial home is just adjacent to the Marbella Club Hotel and boasts direct access to the beach, five bedrooms, a stunning lounge with a hand-carved fireplace, a state-of-the-art kitchen, etc. The first floor even has a beautiful office area so if you’re looking to mix business with pleasure, there is no finer home than La Casa Verde. g Marbella Club Hotel, Marbella. Tel: 952 764 010. www.fineandcountry.es

Thai Gallery Hosts Fun-filled Ferrari Event Members of the Ferrari Club never had it so good during their most recent get-together, featuring a display of over 40 luxury cars (Ferraris, Bentleys, Lamborghinis, etc.) at the Thai Gallery carpark, followed by an exquisite Thai meal at this revered Oriental restaurant, which celebrates its tenth anniversary on September 5. During the evening, a group of lovely young ladies vied for a number of titles in a dynamic beauty pageant and the action continued into the early hours of the morning at CW by Dreamers, where the luxury owners and friends partied away to the beat of funky dance rhythms. g www.asociacionferrari.com

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BenalmádenaDModa: Raising the Fashion Stakes in Benalmádena The first edition of trendy new event, BenalmádenaDModa, took place recently at Rocamar Club Náutico in Benalmádena, with a fashion show featuring the work of designers such as Francisco Valencia, Crochet, Verty, Volerti and Gioconda Novias. Colourful, feminine wear was the order of the day, with top model Elisa Guahnich (Linda de España 2010) taking the audience’s breath away as she strutted her stuff to the music of live band, Sabor Latino. g www.cnmbenalmadena.com

Fiestasol Wedding Planners and Catering Co. Come to Marbella Elite wedding planning and catering company, Fiestasol, recently opened their offices and professional kitchens on the beachfront in the centre of Marbella. The offices include a showroom area, which clients can visit to view wedding photo and design books as well as meet suppliers. Fiestasol provides complimentary menu tastings for wedding and event clients, as well as cake tastings and photographic presentations on a plasma screen.

If you’re having an important event or planning your wedding, you will find everything you need under one roof at Fiestasol.

Timothy Oulton Opens in El Corte Inglés Capricho Interior design buffs and anyone looking to add a signature piece of furniture to their home must pay a visit to the new Timothy Oulton store in El Corte Inglés Capricho. Oulton, a designer, antique dealer and furniture reproductionist, is renowned for constantly testing the boundaries of furniture design. Inspired by timeless, classic design and artisanship throughout the ages, Timothy Oulton succeeds in creating pieces which combine a love of antiques with a desire to customise innovative products for contemporary consumers. Imbued with a strong sense of British heritage, each piece in the Timothy Oulton Collection aims to create a sense of ‘faded British grandeur meets flea market’. The craftsmanship that goes into achieving the unique luxury aesthetic that has become synonymous with Timothy Oulton’s designs is second to none. For example, each piece in the stunning Trunk collection requires a minimum of 72 hours to complete, while the Kensington threeseater sofa contains 1,700 nails which are all hand applied. g Blvd. Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 2,

Marbella. Tel: 952 902 390. www.timothyoulton.com

A Busy Summer for the Rotary Club Marbella-Guadalmina The Rotary Club of MarbellaGuadalmina has been busy of late, hosting a charity gala at Finca La Concepción in aid of the End Polio Now campaign and hosting a lunch at the Restaurante El Cortijo de Gualmina, in honour of British politician, Malcolm Bruce MP. The latter, an ex Chairman of the House of Commons Select Committee on International Development, gave an illuminating speech on how the British Government sees its role in helping developing countries and the financial contributions that they can offer in these troubled economic times. g www.rotarymarbella.com

g C/ Miguel Ángel Catalán Sanudo, Local B1, Marbella. Tel: 952 898 746. www.fiestasol.com 94 / ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2011

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Radio without the distractions COSTA DEL SOL Costa del Sol East 88.9fm Costa del Sol West 91.9fm Malaga East 92.5fm COSTA BLANCA Jávea, Benidorm, Alicante 88.2fm Elche, Torrevieja, Orihuela 105.1fm Denia 95.3fm COSTA CALIDA La Manga, Murcia, Mazarrón 92.7fm COSTA ALMERIA Almeria, Mojacar, Águilas 89.0fm

tre Obama 230x300mm.indd 1

Talk Radio Europe

Your voice in Spain Talk, News, Sport & Music

952 799 953 www.talkradioeurope.com

talk radio europe

22/7/11 18:25:49

© Simon Bayne

© Eva Nilsen

COMPLEJO RESIDENCIAL ISDABE: NEW THREE-STAR HOTEL

MARK KENYON LIGHTING AND DESIGN LAUNCH Mark Kenyon Lighting and Design held a dazzling launch on the San Pedro beachside, showcasing a glittering array of lights including uplighters, search lights and a magnificent combination of table setting lighting fit for a banquet. All these lights are wireless controlled, from a console, so no cables are required. Mark, the Lighting Director of top rating shows including Strictly Come Dancing and Britain’s Got Talent, delighted guests with his lighting prowess, treating all to a sumptuous feast and an abundance of cava. The lights are available for rent, with a team of professionals under Mark´s watchful guise, who will personally deliver, install, and secure them for your event. g Marbella Business Centre, Avda. de Las

LOS ESLABONES DE ALEXIS AT SELWO AVENTURA There couldn’t be a more fitting backdrop for the exhibition, Los Eslabones de Alexis, than Selwo Aventura in Estepona. The exhibition, comprising over 30 photographs and 10 large-scale oil paintings on canvas by artist Alexis, focuses on the animal world and can be viewed both at Selwo’s exhibition room and the various green areas in the park. The exhibition marks Selwo’s passion for culture as a means of promoting the conservation of natural species. g CN 340, km 162.5, Estepona.

Tel: 902 190 482. www.loseslabonesdealexis.com

Cumbres, Marbella. Tel: 634 363 947.

ROYAL PIANOS NEW SHOWROOM IN BENALMÁDENA

The Complejo Residencial ISDABE opened the doors to its new threestar hotel in Estepona recently with a cocktail party attended by the Mayor of Estepona, José María García Urbano, the President of the Mancomunidad de Municipios de la Costa del Sol, Margarita del Cid, and the President of ISDABE, Don Francisco Villalba, to name a few.

ISDABE has invested a total of €4 million in the project, which involved converting one of its own buildings into a cosy, urban-style hotel with 62 rooms. Guests will enjoy all the mod cons (air conditioning, flat screen TV, a mini bar, safe, etc.) and a privileged view to the sea or the gardens of the hotel complex. The hotel is part of the Complejo ISDABE, which measures an impressive 40,000m2 and boasts inviting features including ponds, fountains, gardens and extensive green zones, as well as installations for kids, three pools, two tennis courts and much more.

g CN 340, km 168.5, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 977. www.isdabe.com

If you’ve ever taken piano lessons then surely you remember loosening your fingers and practicing your scales on those glorious black and white keys. If you’ve been thinking that it’s about time you had a beautiful piano in your own home, the good news is that Royal Pianos now has a brand new showroom in Benalmádena, featuring various brands including Yamaha, Schimmel, Kawai and Bosendorfer. Royal Pianos has been a leading supplier of pianos in Spain over the past 10 years and was recently awarded a distribution contract to act as agents for prestigious Austrian brand, Bosendorfer, considered one of the best in the world. Pre-owned pianos can also be found. Royal Pianos holds the fully-qualified Piano Tuner status (PTA Association, England), which means it can effortlessly meet clients’ needs and the rigorous demand for the highest quality instruments. Services include piano sales, hire for events and concerts, transport services, tuning and restoration and backline rental. Please book ahead for an appointment. g Polígono Industrial La Leala, C/ Santo Tomás 23, Benalmádena. Tel: 952

858 777. www.royalpianos.com 96 / ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2011

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The Best Courtesy Vehicle from Línea Directa

Vice-President of Israeli Parliament Visits Marbella Marbella’s Mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, welcomed a very special guest to Marbella recently: the Vice-President of the Israeli Parliament, Ruhama Avraham, who attended the peace conference, De Desierto a Vergel, organised by the Friends for Peace, the Jewish Community of Marbella and the Social Welfare Delegation of Marbella. The event was also attended by another member of the Israeli Parliament, Rafi Elul and the Honorary Consul of Israel and President of the Jewish Community of Marbella, Raphael Cohen. g www.jewishmarbella.org

Línea Directa, a company specialising in car, motorbike and home insurance for foreign customers residing in Spain, offers the best courtesy vehicle service in the whole insurance sector as part of its optional cover, with the best quality – price relation in the market. You will enjoy the convenience of a courtesy vehicle with Línea Directa in the following circumstances: * If you have an accident which prevents you from completing your journey and requires over 24 hours of repair work, you will be able to use a courtesy vehicle for up to 21 days. * If your car is written off, the cover will last for up to 15 days. * If your vehicle is stolen and cannot be located, you can count on a courtesy vehicle for up to 30 days.

In each of the above cases, if required, Línea Directa is able to offer you a taxi so you can collect and return the courtesy vehicle with greater ease.

These services have been specifically designed for foreign customers residing in Spain and are offered exclusively by Línea Directa, a company which is fully aware of the special requirements expats may have in this country.

g Tel: 902 123 161. www.lineadirecta.com

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SKINC opens in La Cañada Shopping Centre Luxurious Japanese cosmetic firm, SKINC has raised the health and beauty bar to new heights with the opening of a new store at La Cañada.

SKINC (short for Skin Inc) is the world’s first skin supplement bar offering highly concentrated, 100 per cent pure and active serums and skincare. The company’s customised skincare solutions invite clients to create their own fuss-free skincare regimes, delivering maximum results. Individual skin identities and needs are addressed with products and treatments that are targeted at delivery to the skin’s deeper layers.

Treatments are conducted using state-of-the-art non-invasive technology which delivers sustainable results, rivalling other invasive procedures.

Manila Grace opens in Puerto Banús

g C.C. La Cañada, Local 99 (Upper Floor), Marbella. Tel: 670 282 189. www.

Manila Grace, the clothing brand for the contemporary women founded in Bologna, Italy, recently inaugurated a boutique in Puerto Banús, offering fashionistas high quality products designed in a casual yet chic style. To commemorate the launch, the brand held a fashion show in the Roman Plaza of the Hotel Puente Romano, which formed the perfect backdrop for a thoroughly Italian evening where fashion, glamour and the glorious warm weather made for a perfect evening. Musical group Dolce Vita entertained guests with their dance rhythms, as did the featured fashion, which included beachwear, casual wear, prêt à porter, accessories and pieces from the Autumn/Winter 2011-2012 collection.

iloveskininc.es

g C/ de Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 040. www.manilagrace.com

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Melvin Villarroel Honoured with Avenue and Bust

Hotel Guadalmina Lounge by Bacardi Al fresco lounging in style recently took on a whole new meaning at the launch of the new Bacardi Lounge at the Hotel Guadalmina. Nestled peacefully alongside the Hotel’s über-cool beach club a few metres from the sea, the new lounge is the ideal place to enjoy refreshing cocktails, especially the world famous Bacardi mojito, based on a traditional recipe. After chilling out, why not work on your fitness at the new nautical activities area, where you can choose from a wide selection of water sports.

Renowned architect Melvin Villarroel, the man behind the stunning design of the Hotel Puente Romano, was recently honoured with a new sculpture, officially unveiled by Mayor Ángeles Muñoz.

Villarroel has also had an avenue named after him, located between the Urbanización Marina Puente Romano and the Hotel Puente Romano.

g www.marbella.es

Carlos Díaz de Bustamante Exhibits at the Hotel Finca Cortesín

g Urb. Guadalmina Baja, Marbella. Tel: 952 882 211. www. hotelguadalmina.com

Art in Light Boxes is the intriguing title of a new exhibition by renowned artist Carlos Díaz de Bustamante at the Hotel Finca Cortesín, which can be viewed until September 4. The artist defines the content of his exhibition as “scenography, landscapes in small dreamlike spaces” which are the fruit of his own internal and external exploration. g The exhibit can be viewed

from 8pm to 12am, or by previous booking on Tel: 616 482 539/ 677 271 399. Ctra.

Casares, km 2, Casares. Tel: 677 271 399. www. carlosdiazdebustamante.es

Butterfly Skin Golf Tournament at Marbella Golf Country Club The 8th edition of the Butterfly Skin Golf Tournament, held at the Marbella Golf Country Club, raised a staggering €30.000, thanks to the participation of some 78 players and the support of generous sponsors. After a competitive day’s play, 150 persons attended a fundraising gala dinner at the Club de Golf Aloha, enjoying live music from Al-Kamra and a fun-filled raffle, where €15.00 worth of prizes were awarded.

Nieves Montero, the President of DEBRA España, thanked all sponsors and donors of prizes and stated that the amount raised would go a long way towards helping the children and their families.

Children for the Environment at La Quinta Some 34 children took place in an environmental workshop at Hotel Meliá La Quinta Marbella Golf & Spa, learning how to contribute to a clean, sustainable environment. The kids learned how to recycle, how to identify environmental ‘crimes’ and tucked into a lovely ecological meal. They also discovered the advantages of the innovative system used by the La Quinta Golf & Country Club, and received a diploma testifying to their participation in the course. Efforts such as these are to be lauded, since it is clear that the future of our environment depends on children, who are our future.

g Tel: 902 106 552. www.melia-laquinta.com

g Tel: 952 816 434. comunicacion@debra.es

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Vi har talt med byens borgmester, Francisco de la Torre, der forklarer hvorfor det er så vigtigt for byen at vinde og hvorfor han tror på en sejr.

BAMSES VENNER KONCERT

- 100% DANSK I 100% SPANSKE OMGIVELSER

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With more than 20 years of experience, Norrbom Marketing provides the best possible tools for your business to benefit from the extensive Scandinavian community on the Costa del Sol. Det norske månedsmagasinet på Costa del Sol

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Boost your business by reaching the Scandinavian community living on the Costa del Sol.

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The Ten

Tenors

konsert i Marbella 16. juli

I juli gir The Ten Tenors konsert i tyrefekterarenaen i Marbella. Norske Britt Jeppsson arrangerer konsertturneen som omfatter flere konserter i Norge og en konsert i Sverige. 16. juli har du mulighet for å oppleve tenorene i Marbella.

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The most cost-effective gateway to the Scandinavian market on the Costa del Sol. The editorial backbone of our publications is based on current events, news, reviews, politics and finance, while other sections cover in-depth and topical information on subjects that concern readers living in Spain. We also offer refreshing and interesting features on health, food and wine, sport, travel and décor, designed for the many Scandinavian-speaking residents and visitors to southern Spain.

NORRBOM MARKETING CENTRO IDEA • Ctra. de Mijas Km. 3,6 • 29650 Mijas Tlf. (+34) 95 258 15 53 • Fax. (+34) 95 258 03 29 e-mail: norrbom@norrbom.com

På oppdagelsesjakt i nabolaget Hemmelighetene her på kysten er mange om du bare kommer deg litt bort fra tettbebyggelsen. Økonomisk kirurgi Spareoperasjonen skal, etter flere år med økning i de offentlige utgiftene, kutte 15 milliarder på budsjettene i 2010 og 2011.

Fordelene ved å ha en lang historie og tro på framtiden Intervju med SAS-sjef Hallvard Brattberg.

På tur og på bodega i Jerez Med gourmet og vinkjenner Øystein Rambøl.

JUNI 2010

Summer Golf Tournaments at Finca Cortesín Who said summer was too hot to play golf? Finca Cortesín proved that when sport is a passion, there’s no stopping it, with three hotly contested tournaments. The first Bobby Jones Golf Cup set the season off on July 22, followed by the first Taylor Made Cup on July 30 and the first Polo Ralph Lauren tournament on August 6. With prizes including stays at the five-star Grand Luxe Hotel Cortesín, clothing and golfing equipment, the tournaments offered players all the incentive they needed to fine tune their skills and liaise with fellow players, in a serene yet challenging setting. g Ctra. Casares, km 2, Casares. Tel: 952 937 883.

www.fincacortesin.com

Aloha College Donation to Fundación Cesare Scariolo One of the most active charities on the Coast is the Fundación Cesare Scariolo (FCS), which aids children undergoing treatment for cancer. The FCS recently received a donation of over €4.000 from Aloha College, raised in just one day during Fun Family day, which celebrated the joy of family life and the importance of helping those in need. g C/ Aloha Golf s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 814 133. www.aloha-college.com

First Ophira-Bikini Beach Volleyball Championship The First Ophira-Bikini Beach Volleyball Championship recently took place under the blazing sun at Bikini Beach in Estepona, with 14 pairs vying for victory. The strong winds made for a challenging day of play but the crowd on the beach kept players pumped up and ready to give their all. The winners of the competition were Ángel and Juan from Casares (in the men’s category) and Jenny and Manolo (in the mixed category). The event was organised by Ophira café and restaurant in Estepona and Bikini Beach. g Ophira is at Avda. Juan

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Club de Mar: A Cool Place to Chill Out at the Hotel Villa Padierna The Villa Padierna is the very embodiment of the ultimate in luxurious Marbella vacationing, so it goes without saying that its elegant Club de Mar Beach Club was the ‘it’ place of the summer for those seeking an exclusive beach getaway. Glorious curtained beds, fancy cocktails and tempting Mediterranean and Asian-Peruvian delights pampered the senses and made it easy to while away the hours in style.

g CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 160. www.hotelvillapadierna.com

Arboretum Marbella: Reforestation and Recruitment of Volunteers Arboretum Marbella has been busy making Marbella a greener place, with two major efforts. The first involved the signing of an agreement with the Asociación Marbella Voluntaria, under which volunteers with a desire to make a change can lend their time and passion to the many projects carried out by Arboretum Marbella. The second consisted of a reforestation workshop attended by 46 people, 13 of which were children from the La Patera and El Ángel centres. Arboretum holds free workshops every month so if you’d like to get involved in socially constructive activities, why not start this month? g Finca Trapiche s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 137

210. www.arboretummarbella.org

Gala for Abandoned, Abused Horses at D’antonela’s If you love animals then you surely suffer every time you hear that one has been abused. The horses from CYD Santa María are just some of the many animals that need your help to survive so if you’d like to do your bit to help out, please support the fundraising dinner at D’antonela’s at the Real Club de Golf de Guadalmina, on September 10 at 8:30pm.

g Tickets can be purchased at Agrojardin in Estepona. CN 340, km 164, Estepona. Tel: 952 796 231. www.agrojardin.com SEPTEMBER 2011 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE / 103

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FM CONSULTING CELEBRATES 21ST BIRTHDAY This month, dynamic property group FM Consulting will celebrate 21 years of operating on the Costa del Sol with a lavish party at their prestigious Cortijo del Mar development. Founder Fausto Martinez and his lovely wife, Angela Schouten, will host friends, associates and invited members of the press at the key-note resort, which offers discerning clients the opportunity to own a luxury property with a full range of resort services. Over the years, Fausto and his team have built a unique company specialising in all aspects of property, from land acquisition, project planning and development, to rentals, sales and marketing, and resort management and are well known in the world’s press and through international exhibitions. Their reputation is based on applying a highly professional approach in combination with an eternal dedication and we wish them all the very best for continued success in the future. g Centro Plaza, first floor, office 12, Marbella. Tel: 952 810 000. www.fmconsulting.

es

La Casa Blanca Opens New Store in San Pedro Homeware/Lifestyle store La Casa Blanca has recently opened at the old Casa site in La Colonia. Dedicated to providing all your favourites from Casa at the same outstanding prices, they also have a large selection of items new to the Coast. The shop stocks an extensive range of essentials such as candles, glassware and kitchen/cooking utensils, as well as many other items that can help turn your house into a home such as cushions, curtains, rugs, pictures, etc. Jane Levene, Managing Director, said: “La Casa Blanca is delighted to be offering a comprehensive collection of stylish products for your home, plus gift ideas and seasonal items. We want to enable our customers to personalise their houses and create their dream homes at an affordable price”. g C.C. Colonia (next to McDonalds), San Pedro. Tel: 952 789 198.

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A Charity Gala With Plenty of Heart One of the swishest events of the summer season was undoubtedly the gala held by the Spanish Heart Foundation and the Spanish Cardiology Society at the Gran Meliá Don Pepe Hotel. Guests arrived from all over Spain, including important dignitaries such as the Mayor of Calzada de Calatrava, Félix Martín; the President of Castilla La Mancha, María Dolores de Cospedal; and world-renowned cardiologist, Dr. Valentin Fuster. During the evening, entrepreneur Pedro Rodríguez Castillo was awarded the ‘Professional Golden heart’, with visitors enjoying an entertaining film projection detailing the highlights of his personal and professional life. A lively concert from Los del Río and a ballet performance featuring music from Swan Lake made the evening even more memorable. g www.fundaciondelcorazon.com

Natura Bissé Bubble Pure Air at the Hotel Melía La Quinta Spa The Hotel Meliá La Quinta’s Yhi Spa was inhabited by a rather large white bubble, installed last month by beauty firm Natura Bissé, containing 99.995 per cent pure air. The idea was to offer clients the chance to experience body- and mind-soothing treatments while breathing in clean, pollution-free oxygen, which is free of viruses, bacteria and allergenic substances. One treatment imparted in the Bubble was the Quirogolf Massage by Natura Bissé, a deep body treatment carried out with the aid of two golf balls! g Urb. La Quinta s/n, Marbella. Tel: 902 106 552. www.melia-laquinta.

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THEPRO BUSINESS

40 ANNIVERSARY FOR TH

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SWANS SCHOOL MARBELLA

SWANS SCHOOL MARBELLA N

estled in the lush gardens that grow at the foot of the La Concha mountain is one of the oldest schools in southern Spain: Swans School, founded by Teresa and Ray Swan-Liggan in 1971 and now celebrating its 40th anniversary. The secondary school, located in Sierra Blanca in Marbella, is a testimony to modernity and design, but the dream was born elsewhere… in a small makeshift classroom in the Marbella Club Hotel, where Teresa, a teacher, shared her passion for knowledge, culture and the arts with four pupils. As student numbers grew, Teresa (known at Swans as Miss Tessa) founded what is now Swans Primary School in a solitary finca hidden in the El Capricho countryside, where the closest landmark was the Gran Meliá Don Pepe Hotel. In the year 2005, Swans Secondary School was built in the Sierra Blanca area.

At Swans, primary and secondary students study the full English and Spanish curriculum up to Year 11 and subsequently prepare for the International Baccalaureate IB Diploma in Years 12 and 13 (Spanish students/ native Spanish speakers can opt to follow the Spanish ESO system). The school’s international nature is one of its defining features, with over 600 students on the roll representing some 36 different nationalities.

When Tessa founded Swans, she aimed to do much more than teach her students core subjects; equal importance was given to creating well-educated, confident and caring adults who were as committed to making a significant contribution to the world, as they were to pursuing their own professional success. Today, this ethos still holds sway at Swans, where manners, family values and a love of languages are tools which enable a student to develop

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their interpersonal skills. The school is bilingual (English-Spanish), while French is taught as a third language from a very early age. Mandarin has recently been incorporated into the curriculum and many students also stay after school for classes in Russian, Arabic and German.

Tessa’s philosophy has produced great results: the overall GCSE A* to C grade in 2010 was 80 per cent (significantly higher than the UK average of 69 per cent) with over 60 per cent gaining an A* to B grade. IB students are shining equally brightly: since 2008, 100 per cent of students obtained the IB Diploma. Many are now studying in Universities in Spain, the UK, the USA and Canada. Tessa credits this rate of success to the excellence of the teachers, some of whom have been at the school for over 20 years.

On my visit to Swans secondary school I was greeted by Catherine Davies, Head Teacher, who gave me a grand tour of the facilities. With her dark hair, green eyes and infectious personality, she certainly is a lot more charismatic than teachers were in my day and I conclude she must be well loved by her pupils.

The facilities simply took my breath away. Divided into four floors which are colour-coded to help students find their way, it boasts everything you would expect from a top level international school: a gorgeous, 25m heated ozone indoor pool (with showers and changing rooms), science labs fitted with stateof-the-art equipment and a 250-seater theater with a fantastically modern sound and lighting system. There are over 80 student network computers at the school, as well as spacious classrooms fitted with interactive whiteboards, smart boards etc, and a stunning library which entices students

with a plethora of colourful books, comfy seating and large crystal windows which open up to awe-inspiring views of the La Concha mountain. The sports facilities are impressive, with indoor and outdoor courts and pitches for many popular sports. There is also a games hall, with air hockey tables, billiards and table tennis facilities for those who need to unwind. IB students have it even better, with their own common room, where they are able to chat over a coffee or work on the study tables.

Music and technology buffs find a haven in Swans, whose music room houses the latest MAC equipment to record compositions, as well as every instrument you could possibly play. The ICT room is surprisingly colourful and upbeat, with a lovely, large-scale wall painting of a computer commanding attention and helping the teachers point out specific functions. The art room is abuzz with paintings and sculptures created by students for their recent exhibition at the Kasser Rassu Gallery and the Marbella International Art Festival 2011, where they set up their own exhibition stand. Students regularly take part in a number of fun activities, including the International schools’ first Sports Day at the Estadio Municipal de Marbella or the Science Fair, where they tested out theories through a series of experiments and (harmless!) explosions.

Congratulations are in order to the Swan-Liggans and the team, for providing 40 years of dedication, passion and humanity to their students. Since ancient times, philosophers like Socrates and Plato insisted on the importance of not only being a successful person, but a committed and cultivated one as well and these values will always have their place in the heart of the school’s founder, Tessa Swan. e

g Tel: 952 773 248 / 952 902 755. www.swansschoolinternational.es 23/8/11 13:49:36

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THEPRO FINANCE

WORDS Elisabeth Dobson

Economic uncertainty means that planning ahead is more important than ever

The on-going economic problems across the Eurozone have ensured that it’s been a volatile year on the markets, to say the least. For anyone involved in moving money overseas this has meant that they have needed to keep their eyes closely peeled on the exchange rates.

A

s if there isn’t enough to worry about when you are either living abroad, moving abroad, or buying property overseas, fluctuations in currency values can make a huge difference to the amount of money you end up dealing with. For example, buying and selling property overseas almost always involves transferring large amounts of money from one currency to another and changes in the currency market can make up as much as 10 per cent difference to the amounts, over the course of just a few days.

It’s worth bearing in mind that this kind of fluctuation will not only mean that the costs of your move or purchase could be drastically affected by this kind of market activity, but in the worse possible scenario it could also put the house of your dreams financially out of reach.

Fortunately, there are ways of protecting against this kind of outcome and ensuring that you know exactly what you’re dealing with by minimising your risk in advance.

Currency risk management

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is usually reserved for major industry players by the big banks. Private individuals are not currently afforded the same care and attention. However, a handful of specialist companies can offer the same kind of products to private clients that the big banks reserve only for the bigger corporate fish.

The top currency specialists can offer forwards and options up to three years in advance.

Forward contracts enable clients to lock into an exchange rate so there are no nasty surprises on the payment date. Currency options allow you to protect yourself from negative rate movements in the future but also enable you to benefit if the exchange rate moves in your favour. Some currency options do require a premium – upfront fee – however, there are options available which don’t.

More importantly, the advice surrounding the options should be free and a good foreign exchange broker should be able to tailor currency options to exactly match your needs.

The savings can be highly significant and anyone using a

recognised foreign exchange payment institution, rather than a bank, is likely to see a marked difference in the amount they end up dealing with.

With Europe teetering on the brink more and more people are currently turning to foreign exchange experts for help. There are a lot of brokers out there, so it is advisable you make sure you’re dealing with the right kind of company, one with FSA authorisation and a track record of success.

In turbulent times anyone who is involved in making international money transfers would be advised to seek any advantage they can to make sure their money is protected. Even if the timing is such that months of planning are not available, finding the best exchange rates can make a big difference when large sums of money are involved. Specialist brokers quote their exchange rates based on the live rates at the time you call them, whereas many banks set their rate first thing in the morning and hold this rate for a certain amount of time. The banks have to set this rate far

enough away from the live rate in order to cover any potential fluctuations throughout the day.

It is worth considering fees too. Foreign exchange companies specialise in transferring funds internationally for clients. When this is the sole business the focus should be on obtaining clients as competitive rates as possible, whilst reducing or eliminating transfer fees and giving clients access to valuable products that can protect them from negative exchange rate movements in the future. Always make sure there are no hidden surprises, no commission or transfer charges.

Whether you are emigrating, repatriating funds or trying to manage regular overseas payments, there are people out there who will make sure the currency exchange happens in the most efficient way possible with minimal hassle to you.

There is an industry waiting to serve you. g Elizabeth Dobson is Head of the Private Clients Division of foreign exchange brokers company, World First.

g For further information about managing your international money transfers with World First, Tel: +44 20 7801 9080. www.worldfirst.com 19/8/11 15:07:39

Costa del Sol TEMAS TRATADOS EN EL CURSO 2010-2011 Cómo atraer nueva inversión a la Costa del Sol Turismo de golf. Cómo conseguir un modelo más competitivo Cómo reinventar el turismo de playa Cómo mejorar la calidad de los servicios complementarios al turismo La inversión en infraestructuras como instrumento de crecimiento Puertos deportivos. Situación y nuevas fórmulas para un producto estratégico Hoteles de alto ‘standing’. La necesidad de reinventarse Belleza y Salud. El bienestar, la mejor inversión Turismo de compras. Cómo potenciar uno de los mayores atractivos de Marbella Una herramienta al servicio del turismo. Cómo vender la marca a través de Internet y las redes sociales

FOROS 2011-2012. MÁS Y MEJORES Más equipo técnico y humano Estructura organizativa más intensa Más ponencias profundas y útiles Metodología moderna y avanzada Mayor expansión mediante las nuevas tecnologías Participación directa a través de Internet Debates en diferido en la Red Nuevos y originales métodos de motivación para que “Foros Ausbanc” sea imprescindible para los empresarios y se convierta en un auténtico generador de expectativas para todos

PARTICIPA EN LOS FOROS Los asistentes a los “Foros Ausbanc” pagarán una cuota de inscripción si no son asociados y, por ese motivo, recibirán una suscripción a la revista CVB de ocio, cultura y viajes.

En cada foro se sorteará un viaje extraordinario entre los inscritos.

Además hay preparadas grandes y agradables sorpresas.

Los asociados a Ausbanc podrán asistir gratuitamente.

María Angeles Díaz Responsable de Foros Ausbanc en la Costa del Sol

INFÓRMATE llamando al 952 06 01 20 Ausbanc Málaga. Alameda Principal, 45 – 3º A. 29001 Málaga

www.forosausbanc.com

THEPRO FINANCE

Ausbanc’s name is shining brighter than ever before thanks to consistent hard work and copious amounts of sheer passion. Ausbanc is a kind of legal watchdog, which discovers and investigates cases of banking malpractice, exposing the latter and pressurising them to stop for the benefit of private individuals, companies and professionals. In addition, Ausbanc regularly organises forums and undertakes important work in education and training, and in fomenting interpersonal relationships between professionals and businesses. The heart and soul of this highly proactive organisation is undoubtedly its President, Luis Pineda Salido, who this month gives an exclusive interview.

Training, Counselling and Legal DefenCe

Ausbanc Luis Pineda with Tomás Regalado, Mayor of Miami, after receiving the prize for Businessman of the Year from Camaco in Florida

What is Ausbanc’s biggest legal worry at this point in time?

Without a doubt, a toxic product affecting both individuals and societies. It’s currently being offered on the market under different names including ‘swap’, ‘financial permutation’, ‘clip’, ‘stockpyme ‘sure installment’ or ‘risk management’, to name a few. In reality these terms have little to do with what the product actually is: an attempt by some banks and cajas to reap all the benefits without the client being able to do the same.

Ausbanc is the only organisation in the world to work with such efficiency that at this point in time, we have achieved over 100 favourable judicial sentences for clients. These sentences have annulled ‘swaps’, ‘permutations’

or whatever else the product is called and have forced banks and financial institutions to return vast amounts, up to millions of euros, to our clients and associates.

What else is worrying you?

‘Ground clauses’. These are minimum interest rates which many banks and financial institutions applied to certain mortgages in order to protect themselves against possible declines in the Euribor. These clauses force individuals, companies, professionals and real estate promoters to effect much higher monthly mortgage payments than they should be.

Ausbanc has successfully helped many clients by filing complaints and suing culpable financial institutions.

What are Ausbanc’s aims in the educational sphere?

Ausbanc aims to educate, share information and increase awareness through its many forums (judicial or sectorial). We make our presence felt throughout Spain and have been specially successful on the Costa del Sol, offering Forums on a number of important topics including: How To Attract Investment to the Costa del Sol, Golf Tourism, How To Reeinvent Beach Tourism, Sporting Ports and New Formulas for Strategic Products. The demand for Ausbanc forums is high, owing to their style, methodology, depth and utility so we’re likely to continue offering them. In October, we’re holding the Costa del Sol Forum, featuring an interesting visit from the Mayor of Miami, Tomás Regalado.

What are Ausbanc’s plans for the near future?

We plan on incorporating new technologies into our forums, making them viewable live on the Internet and broadcasting them subsequently within a debate format. We also plan to expand internationally, holding various events in countries where our economics-centred newspaper, Mercado de Dinero (The Money Market) is published; countries such as England, the USA, Colombia and Venezuela. In March, 2012 we will be hosting the ConsuMiami fair in Miami, Florida, following the model of our Consumeralia fair in Spain, featuring specialists in a variety of themes affecting modern banking, financing and consumption as well as exhibition stands from sponsors and collaborators.

The first edition of ConsuMiami also pays homage to the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy’s declaration of consumers’ rights.

Foro Marbella: The latest Ausbanc forum on the Costa del Sol focused on Marketing and New Technologies

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g Tel: 91 541 61 61. www.ausbanc.com 23/8/11 11:03:52

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THELEISURE TRAVEL

View across the River Thames to the Houses of Parliament

Looking down the River Thames with the iconic Tower Bridge illuminated by night

Cosmopolitan centre of business LONDON:

O

nce the capital city of an empire, London is now above all known for its business acumen, as personified by its financial institutions. But it’s much more than the suits and glass towers that inhabit the City; London is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place that is more like a beehive of towns than a single city. Follow the north bank of the river, past iconic sights like Tower Bridge and the (in)

famous Tower of London and you come to the seat of government, symbolised by another great icon of Britain’s glorious past, the Houses of Parliament. But you’ll have seen these during a previous visit, so press on, into the rarefied surroundings of Mayfair and Belgravia, where you can drink in the atmosphere while doing serious damage to your bank balance.

Here, within close range

of Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park, you can savour the privileged side to urban life, a world dominated by fine boutiques, quaint cafés, expensive art galleries and Michelin-star restaurants. Once sated by the finer things in life – let’s face it, there’s only so much ‘Sloan rangering’ a person can take – it’s time to immerse yourself in the other faces of this large and diverse metropolis. A different

kind of ‘arty London’, away from the museums and galleries, can be found across the city in markets and antique fairs that vary as widely in character, ambience and subject matter as they do in postal code. The obvious place to start is Covent Garden, and although this is a lovely spot you will march on if you want to lose the tourist hordes and experience something a little more real.

Instead, head for markets

Pictures on this page: © visitlondonimages/britainonview

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Bright lights, big city WORDS Michel Cruz

Big cities are exciting: bright, fast moving and endowed with a thousand and one things to explore but they can also be a little overwhelming.

One thing is certain, you cannot come to grips with them in one visit so you’ll have to commit some time and effort before you can call yourself a seasoned world traveller.

If you travel for business, always try to see something of the places you visit. If you travel as a tourist, make sure you ‘do’ the typical sights and experiences because, once you get these out of the way, you are ready to really get to know a city.

© welcomebeyond.com

in wonderfully named spots like Brick Lane, Spitalfields or Petticoat Lane, all within easy range of Liverpool Street station. This is where you’ll find true to life food, antiques and clothes markets with lots of authentic atmosphere, though if you like your bargain-hunting a little more trendy and refined you can head westwards to Shepherd’s Bush and Portobello Road, where the Sixties still

linger. London, however, is a very multicultural place and if you want to see its spicier and more exuberant side cross the river to Bermondsey or even Brixton, a typically diverse area where Afro-Caribbean communities and yuppies rub shoulders on Brixton Road.

If you’re lucky, you might bump into some examples of the vibrant London street art scene, more so if you venture

Wh e r e t o s t a y :

into the earthy districts of Shoreditch and Spitalfields, the unofficial ‘open air gallery’ of the city. Taken to a level beyond scrappy graffiti, these works range from funny and artistically refined via downright beautiful to not so pretty but thought-provoking. Most do invite a strong reaction, either through visual impact or social commentary, but they represent the real London.

40 Winks

In keeping with a more advanced city experience, this wonderfully quirky and arty hotel evokes the spirit of bohemian elegance in a four-storey Queen Anne townhouse in an upcoming part of East London.

The brainchild of decorator David Carter, this hotel is opulently ambient – just the place, and location, for a London visit with a difference. www.welcomebeyond.com/ property/40-winks/ London at twilight

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Place du Tetre © Paris Tourist Office/Marc Bertrand

L

ike most great cities Paris is a place of clichés. Do the great monuments, sights and romantic aura of cinema, fiction and travel brochures hold true?

Yes, Paris is not one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations for nothing; go out and marvel at the elegant buildings, walk the broad boulevards, visit the museums, soak in the café society and be seduced by those ultra chic shops.

This city has it all.

The Hôtel des Invalides, the Panthéon, the Jardins du Trocadero or the Saint-Sulpice church, made famous by The Da Vinci Code – in Paris, history lives on every corner, yet classicism and modernity stand side by side.

Better preserved than most cities, with a centre still resplendent in Haussmann grandeur, there is an increasing mingling of old and new, with the Musée D’Orsay – a 19th century railway station that

Dinner on Parisian river boat © Paris Tourist Office/Amélie Dupont

houses a museum – contrasting with Jean Nouvel’s ultramodern Musée du quai Branly or Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano’s nowfamous Centre Pompidou. In fact, an entire glass and steel high-rise centre has joined the Paris skyline in recent decades. The modernist skyscrapers of La Défense may not be so different from those in a multitude of cities, but their impressive clustering to one side of the city – where it doesn’t detract from the classical beauty of Paris – is a poignant example of that French knack for planning and seeing the bigger picture. After all, this city is a masterpiece of urban planning and revival, the creation of Baron Haussmann lovingly nurtured and added to today.

Even so, the elegance of the Boulevard St. Germain or Place de l’Opera is contrasted with many a grimy backstreet, plastered in graffiti. It was in Paris that Blek le

Pigalle © Paris Tourist Office/Marc Bertrand

Rat first developed stencil graffiti art and became an inspiration for the likes of Banksy – and in its suburbs that the art of parkour, or free running, first developed.

The royal opulence of many a palace or imposing church is likewise juxtaposed with the spirit of rebellion that has lived here since 1789. Fiercely independent, Parisians have stormed the Bastille, raised barricades against advancing cavalry and even created a Paris Commune that lasted for several months before government troops finally broke through and the last communards were finished off within the walls of Père Lachaise cemetery.

This revolutionary and bohemian spirit lives on in Montmartre and in the streets around Place Pigalle, now a red light district but once a colourful den of thieves.

Think Moulins Rouge, the CanCan and the coming together of

intellectuals, artists, philosophers and romanticists such as Proust, Picasso, Hemingway and de Beauvoire in noisy, smoke-filled cafés. And here begins another facet of Paris, the more elusive human face of the city, which shows it as a place of romance, happiness, pain and longing.

From bloody uprisings to wartime invasions, Paris has seen its share of misery, shedding plenty of blood but somehow emerging from the smoke with most of its finest treasures intact.

Get to know your way around the smaller, lesser-known streets, where the coffee is best and the cafés, restaurants, local markets and night scene most authentic.

Discovering these delights, and mixing with local people in such colourful off-the-track areas such as Butte-aux-Cailles, is a process that is as rewarding as it is enlightening.

The City of Light PARIS:

The impressive foyer

Wh e r e t o s t a y : Banke Hotel

Equally quirky and bohemian though also very chic and modern, the Banke hotel offers the kind of marriage of classicism and trendiness that could have come from the pen of Philippe Starck. Housed in a beautiful Paris building in the sought-after Opera district, the Banke is a wonderful way to experience Paris chic with a touch of quirkiness thrown in. www.derbyhotels.com/en/hotel-banke/ 114 / ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2011

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Edificio Italia © RodrigoPetterson/SPTuris

An emerging star SAO PAULO:

Avenida Paulista in São Paulo © Acervo/SPTuris

S

ão Paulo used not to be on many city travel lists, but as Brazil rises as an economic power this workhouse of the nation’s economy has come into vogue. Not as classically beautiful or charming, though easily as earthy as Rio de Janeiro, this huge metropolitan area has its acres of shantytowns and suburbia, to be sure, but it also has a lively urban centre and a saucy vibe that could only be Brazilian.

Whatever you might think or know

about Brazil’s social problems, this is a fun-loving nation with some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Best thing to do in São Paulo is to hook up with a well-informed local and follow his or her advice to the best restaurants, trendiest nightspots and most interesting places, avoiding those parts of town that every large city has.

The greatest pleasure to be had here, though, lies not in sights such as the classical buildings or modern high-

Samba girls © Shutterstock

São Paul Jockey Club ©JeffersonPancieri/SPTuris

rise, the fancy shopping malls or even the lush botanical gardens and parks, but in the human spectacle that unfolds at the turf club, the grand prix, the mass gathering of humanity that is the annual carnival – or indeed right under your nose on every street and corner.

Carnaval ©AlexandreDiniz/SPTuris

Wh e r e t o s t a y : Hotel Unique

© designhotels.com

The Unique Hotel is a member of Design Hotels, a worldwide collective of design-led establishments, and it’s not hard to see why.

Modern, trendy, quirky and luxurious in a very urban and 21st century kind of way, this boat-shaped hotel offers many a mesmerising perspective of the city. www.designhotels.com/hotels/americas/brazil/ sao_paulo/hotel_unique The zany modernity of Hotel Unique

The lights of São Paulo

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Pics © www.marinabaysands.com

O

ne of the original tiger economies, Singapore is awash in wealth and confidence.

This is very much a city of the 21st century, where modern technology and service industries are housed in gleaming tower blocks to create a post-modern cityscape and technocratic ambience that would have been hard to imagine a little over half a century ago, when this was a colonial city and bastion of the British Navy in Asia. Singapore today is bursting with pride and a can-do attitude, but for all its modernity and glossy consumerism it also remains a very tightly controlled society where the city fathers cast a disapproving eye upon such ‘normal’ urban

behaviour as graffiti and so-called sub-culture.

Expect to be fined if you drop litter, but in return you will encounter a place that is remarkably clean and shiny for a city so tall, modern and big. Sitting on an island in the Straits of Johor, this city state is the tropical equivalent of New York, with huge, air-conditioned shopping malls to tempt the wallet out of your pocket, a plethora of fine restaurants and waterside venues to relax in, and a bustle that is rather more gentle than that of its American and Japanese counterparts. Singapore has a genteel but also rather controlled air about it, with lovely parks and classical buildings offering a hint of what it

was like to have been here in colonial times.

Most emblematic is Raffles, quite a place to enjoy an exotic cocktail, but of course there is also the old town in which to try a touch of Malay culture, Chinese culture, cuisine, markets and festivals in Chinatown, or indeed the South Asian equivalent in Little India. River races are popular attractions, as is the elegant turf club, where locals come to let off some steam and bet on their favourite horses. Typically modern pleasures await in the state-of-the-art Underwater World and the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, whose skyscraper top infinity pool is as exhilarating as it is symbolic of today’s Singapore.

Fireworks over Marina Bay www.yoursingapore.com

Aerial view of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Wh e r e t o s t a y :

Marina Bay Sands Hotel

A sensation from the start, the Marina Bays Sands Hotel’s architecture and setting have already made it a classic, and frankly a very difficult choice to better when staying in Singapore. Try the ultimate cheap thrill as you paddle away in an infinity pool that seems to drop off the rooftop and into the skyline. www.marinabaysands.com/

Water and light show with Marina Bay Sands Hotel in background

The vibrant Boat Quay, the place for drinks, dining and dancing © www.yoursingapore.com

SINGAPORE:

A tiger city Lobby of Marina Bay Sands

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Tokyo Midtown with cherry blossom trees ©Tokyo Midtown Management Co Ltd/©JNTO

Oriental modernity TOKYO:

Pictures ©Yasufumi Nishi/JNTO

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens

J

© Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Tokyo

apan has been a wealthy, developed nation for a long time – long before the so-called emerging economies – and it shows. Already a structured and advanced society when it embraced modern western technology and the inevitable assault on its culture, this nation has given the world much in the way of architecture, landscaping, art and the application of mind over matter, yet look at Tokyo and at first instance it appears like any modern metropolis of tall buildings, bright lights and gamely distractions.

Forget about a typically Asian city with narrow streets squeezed between Spa Harmony suite, with views over the city

tight-packed houses with paper lanterns hanging overhead. This is a businesslike centre of concrete, steel and glass, a technological capital where neon rules and the cacophony comes not so much from the people as from their never-ending output of gadgets. The Japanese are famously formal and correct, inhibited even, but in this sprawling city the pace is quick and everybody seems in a hurry.

Much like New York, but with an oriental twist, as the Chinese character neon signs and the exotic smells of Japanese-style fast food remind you. Step in time with the crowds in shopping

Views from the hotel’s Signature Restaurant

districts ablaze with bright lights like Shinbuya, hunt for electronic bargains in the Akihabara district or enjoy views of the cityscape from the Rainbow Bridge, where Mount Fuji rises up spectacularly behind the wall of high-rise.

You may even want to visit a trade fair of the gaming industry, though quite frankly that would be rather sad, so man up and savour old Japan within the serene environs of the Imperial Palace and its magnificent gardens. Then

delve into the local cuisine, followed by a session at an original karaoke bar, or make the most of the fact that this city has the largest number of Michelin-star restaurants in the world.

If that has stimulated your interest in all things culinary you might want to pluck up the courage to visit the Tsukiji fish market, the largest and busiest in the world, and symbol of a nation that somehow manages to delve into its ordered past to deal with its hectic modern way of life.

Seishoji Temple

Shinjyuku

Cherry blossom at Chidorigafuchi

Wh e r e t o s t a y :

Mandarin Oriental

The suitability of this fine hotel won’t be ‘lost in translation’ as you step through the grand entrance and take the lift up to your room or suite. As ever with the best hotels, views are a constant companion, and in this case they are of the skyline of one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the world – from your room, your bath, the bar or restaurant, or even while having a massage. www.mandarinoriental.com/tokyo/

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The city that never sleeps

NEW YORK:

The Shop, Midtown Manhattan Restaurant Times Square © NYC & Company/Joe Buglewicz

I

f you can make it here you can make it anywhere; New York, famous for its energy and bustle, is a centre of business, art and life. The mobs and cops, suits and street performers, Manhattan’s 5th Avenue and working class suburbs such as Brooklyn or Harlem reflect the diversity of human experience in a place as big as this. They are all part of what makes New York so distinct and famous. Above all, this city’s character is shaped by the fact that for so long it was the point of entry for immigrants into the USA, and for many it continues

to be so.

As a result, we do not associate New York with the hillbilly culture that pervades much of the US, but rather with Jewish, Italian, Afro-American, Puerto Rican and so-called Wasp communities. The latter is a bit of a misnomer, applying really to the New Englanders and Dutch descendants of Nieuw Amsterdam who later were to become the American upper classes. Typically, they spend their weeks in the city, living in luxury apartments in suitable districts such as the Upper East Side or Tribeca,

working in the stock market, for large law firms or in fancy galleries, dining and living it up on the town and then heading for Long Island, Rhode Island or Martha’s Vineyard on weekends and holidays.

Alternatively you might want to see where it’s at with the everyday folks and follow the crowds and street performers to ‘Afro-American’ Harlem, Little Italy on Manhattan (interestingly enough right next to the city’s Chinatown) or cross the Brooklyn Bridge to the earthier environs of Brooklyn and Queens, traditionally home to large

The pond at 59th Street, Central Park © NYC & Company/Alex Lopez

Guestroom foyer ©Andaz 5th Avenue

and transient immigrant communities. Then come back down to earth from all that urban frenzy at Central Park, where it is entertaining just to watch the crowds or to spend a moment at the Strawberry Fields memorial to John Lennon before heading on to the East Village for the classic New York art and loft experience. A centre of hippies and later punk rockers, this is where you will find art, poetry, comedy clubs and eateries that offer everything from Italian to Ethiopian in a place where the world truly comes together in one spot. e

Wh e r e t o stay: Andaz 5th Avenue

New York is notorious for expensive, disappointing hotels – unless you have a platinum credit card.

The Andaz combines true modern urban flair and winning design with a very acceptable level of comfort, wonderful restaurants and public areas, and a perfect location on 5th Avenue. newyork.5thavenue.andaz. hyatt.com/

Columbus Circle © NYC & Company/Alex Lopez

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THELEISURE TRAVEL Few sites are quite as emblematic of Barcelona’s artistry as Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia cathedral

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I could write quite fervently about my love affair with Barcelona. Imagine a child aged 11 leaving a quiet, suburban village somewhere in leafy Surrey to find herself suddenly in the heart of a sprawling Catalonian metropolis.

A city overlooking the Mediterranean, flanked by mountains and proud of its status as Spain’s hippest urban hub. I was overwhelmed. Barcelona is steeped in history but also has a determined finger on the pulse of everything avant-garde, from art movements to architectural masterpieces.

Barcelona has been at the forefront of political and social revolutions and has never turned down an opportunity to show off its economic prowess.

WORDS JESSICA OCAÑA

I

moved to the Catalonian capital in 1992 – the year of the Olympics and the year Barcelona was to show the entire world the kind of stuff it was made of; the year its warm-hearted but no-nonsense people would open their arms to welcome the rest us to their city, their culture, language and cuisine... it was as if every car horn, every flashing light and every bustling footstep was moving to the rhythm of the same song whose words rang proudly throughout its wide avenues and maze of backstreets – a unanimous and united ‘Look at us!’ And why not? Under a hazy cloud of smog and cement dust, Barcelona was busy putting the finishing touches to some of it’s now iconic architectural monuments: the Palau San Jordi, the Estadio Montjuic, even Gaudi’s still-unfinished Gothic cathedral, whose spires are perhaps the most emblematic feature of the city’s skyline. On the eve of the Olympics, Barcelona was caught up in an organised chaos, dusting down furniture, polishing porcelain and sweeping up unsightly pieces of broken crockery. But, the confidence, bordering on arrogance, that this majestic city flaunts meant that come the day of the opening ceremony, nobody dropped a line, forgot a cue or missed an entrance. To a standing ovation and fireworks exploding above the city skyline, Barcelona took its first bow and has been basking ever since in a resounding and global encore.

I remember the fuss and furore of that time, but it was only as an adult that I came to realise how significant a moment it was in Barcelona, and indeed, Spain’s history. Until 1975, just 11 years prior to being chosen as the host city of the

most revered international event, Barcelona – like the rest of Spain – was under a dictatorship.

Democracy had been stifled alongside art, freedom and progress. Although liberalism began to creep in during the early 1960s, for years voices had been silenced and as far as Europe and the rest of the modern world were concerned, Spain was decades behind. Parts of the country enjoyed modest attention as tourist destinations, where sun-seeking northern Europeans would come to sample the best of Mediterranean life and all that is quintessentially Spanish. However, in the meantime, modern urban capitals around the world were making mammoth strides in liberal advancement, witnessing the sexual revolution and socio-cultural progression like never before. But, back in Spain, bubbling away under the surface of restriction, control and censorship was a nation of people raring to catch up, and leading the race were the people of Barcelona. In the years that followed the rise of democracy, the city flourished, culminating in the winning bid for the Olympics in 1986. This attracted billions in infrastructural investment, improving not only the quality of life but also external investment and tourism. Barcelona won the bid and with it sealed its fate as one of the most-visited cities in the world, on a par with other urban capitals such as New York, London and Paris.

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Gingerbread houses at Parc Güell

What is it about Barcelona that everybody loves? Is it the guilty pleasure of falling into the arms of a seductive temptress, who will quite openly flirt with and entice anyone who catches her eye? Is it the opportunity for pure hedonism those Barcelona nights have become renowned, if not notorious for. Or, is it something far more sophisticated? Is it the pride with which it takes you around its beautiful cityscapes, shows off its art and architecture then sits you down in a shady plaza and feeds you regional delights washed down by a refreshing cerveza or Penedés wine?

Or perhaps it’s the simplicity of sitting on a grassy verge in Parc Güell and contemplating an almost perfect horizon of mountain, sea and urban bliss. Barcelona is a noisy, vibrant and colourful destination with which indifference and tedium are never associated. A city that always evokes strong opinion, Barcelona revels in causing a sensation.

A feast for the eyes, Barcelona is a city unlike any other in Spain, set apart by its distinctive and unique architectural style, which includes examples that span the city’s 2,000 year old history. From Romanesque ruins to Gothic masterpieces, Catalan art nouveau to modern constructions that have become landmarks on Barcelona’s skyline, the architecture in this Mediterranean city is what attracts tourists from around the world, charms them, wows them and has even been known to cause controversy.

Perhaps the most imposing of constructions is the Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. A city that has long-resisted the invasion of sky-scrapers, the spires of the Sagrada Familia have become part of Barcelona’s universal identity.

It was the world renowned Catalan architect

Antoni Gaudi who was commissioned to design the cathedral 128 years ago – a task which he worked on passionately until his death in 1926.

Famously unfinished (only a quarter of Gaudi’s projected work had been completed at the time of his death), the Sagrada Familia has been taken on by numerous architects since, who have been determined to honour Gaudi’s style. Completion of the cathedral is anticipated for 2026, which would also tie in neatly with the centennial of its creator’s death. Visiting this architectural jewel is a must. The eight famous spires, which dwarf the surrounding buildings, are part of an original design plan of 18, representing in ascending order of height the Twelve Apostles, the four Evangelists, the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ, completion of which will make the Sagrada Familia the tallest church building in the world. The spires are not just to be contemplated, however; you can experience their colossal stature by climbing up the narrowing internal staircase – an adventure not advisable for vertigo sufferers or those uncomfortable in small spaces. From the top, the panoramic views of Barcelona are incredible and some of the small mosaic details that characterise the cathedral’s design can be viewed close-up.

Gaudi’s Barcelona can be seen everywhere: curved construction stones, brightly coloured mosaic patterns, twisted iron sculptures and organic forms dominate his work and adorn Barcelona’s unique façade. From the unusual and romantic Parc Güell overlooking the city, to the quirky, must-see Casa Batlló on Barcelona’s busy Passeig de Gràcia, Gaudi’s work has helped turn Catalonia’s capital into an urban paradise.

Strolling around the city, not only will you

The spiritual Sagrat Cor Temple, floating in the dizzy heights of the Tibidabo

Spectacular stone columns in Parc Güell

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Gaudi’s famous Casa Batlló, on Barcelona’s busy Passeig de Gràcia

be spoilt by Barcelona’s characteristic architectural designs, you will also be wholly impressed by the offer of cuisine. Like any cosmopolitan urban capital, the choice of food and drink from around the world is boundless. However it’s the ode to their own gourmet delights that excites me the most. Food and drink is serious business anywhere in Spain.

You’ll struggle to find a patriot who isn’t proud of their local culinary tradition. Likewise, Spain’s many varieties of wine are celebrated and revered by

La Pedrera, one of Gaudi’s most awe-inspiring and frequently visited houses

all, and are often the cause of much regional competition – albeit healthy.

As far as food is concerned, Barcelona is spoilt for choice.

With the Mediterranean on its doorstep, fruits of the sea are aplenty. From pan-fried calamari with garlic and parsley, to steamed mussels and mouth-watering king prawns cooked simply with rock salt and garlic, I have always loved the simple, yet delicious recipes that characterise Mediterranean seafood. Similarly, thanks to its proximity to the Pyrenees

and other in-land mountain chains, Catalonia is praised for is hearty mountain cuisine, which includes a variety of pork-intensive dishes, and other meat and vegetable stews.

However, it’s a much humbler food tradition in Catalonia that wins me over time and time again and that’s pa amb tomaquet – bread rubbed down with garlic, smeared with extra virgin olive oil and fresh, ripe tomatoes. It’s perfect with a top grade cured Iberian meat and can be enjoyed in any one of Barcelona’s many tapas bars or restaurants.

Barcelona indeed takes pride in its culinary offering and a visit to the city’s La Boquería market will confirm just how much.

Found by venturing almost all the way down the city’s iconic pedestrian street, La Rambla, towards the sea, La Boquería has been selling fresh food produce from as far back as the 13th century, when tables were set up by the old city gates to sell meat products. Today, with nearly 1,000 stalls, the market is the heart of Barcelona’s food tradition; it’s a hub for buyers and sellers of quality

fresh produce, one of the city’s number one tourist attractions and a notorious haunt for local gossip-mongers. It’s hard to imagine that a city as vast as Barcelona is able to maintain a sense of community, but it’s places such as La Boqueria that strive to conserve precisely that.

Where other cities may lose sight of their identity, Barcelona is defined by it and the proud, loyal people working long and hard to nurture it.

No urban utopia would be complete without its very own urban beach. La Barceloneta is a neighbourhood in the Ciutat Vella district and it is also home to Barcelona’s kilometre-long sandy beach equipped with bars, restaurants and even an open-air gym. Not far from the statue of Christopher Columbus in the city’s Olympic Port, the Barceloneta beach welcomes all. As I child, I remember jumping on the Metro with cousins, grandparents, aunties and uncles laden with ice boxes, sunshades and other beach paraphernalia and getting off at Barceloneta’s very own Metro stop. Finding enough towel territory for the whole family was

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The busy La Boquería markets

Barcelona’s most iconic pedestrian street: La Rambla

An aerial view of the Port of Barcelona

always a mission, but once we were settled we would spend the entire day there – the children playing in the sand and sea, whilst the adults hid under the parasol watching the world go by and enjoying a sneaky siesta. Later on in life, I would end up spending an unforgettable Millennium New Year at one of the beach’s nearby specialist Cava bars; enjoying an amazing dinner in one of the neighbourhood’s top-notch restaurants; dancing the night away in one of the port’s many nightclubs and then nursing the ailments caused by the night before, the morning after, sat with my feet in the Mediterranean to a backdrop of one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.

A great place to spot some of the neighbourhood’s many colourful characters, the Barceloneta is also home to one of the city’s coolest and classiest hotels, the Hotel Arts. An impressive contemporary design some 44 storeys high, the Hotel Arts is a must for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Its very cool rooftop bar and pool is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy the views whilst sipping on a refreshing cocktail and maybe do a little celebrity-watching. However, it’s just one of the many luxury hotels Barcelona has to offer.

It’s a while since I spent more than

a weekend in the vibrant, urban Eden that is Barcelona. I had the humbling honour of living there years ago and going back always reminds me of a time when I was swept from English suburbia and thrown to the concrete lions. I’d like to go back again and spend more time there. A weekend visit is a little like the ride at the fairground which spins you round so fast everything is a blur of colour and sound – it excites you and scares you a little even, but not so much that you’re not quickly queuing up again for more.

There used to be a fairground on top of Barcelona’s Tibidabo mountain – part of the Serra de Collserola mountain range and some 500 metres above the city – where, apart from breathtaking views and the beautiful Roman Catholic church the Sagrat Cor, there was a ride that consisted of boarding an old plane which was attached to a rotating arm that would hover precariously over the edge of the mountain, showing Barcelona in all its splendour. It was just as exhilarating as all the other fast rides at the park because you never quite trusted the 100 year-old mechanism, but it was always my favourite way to see the city. You could look, point, even strike up conversation with a fellow passenger and slowly Barcelona’s beautiful horizon would unfold. Like my ride, the more time you

spend taking in this incredible city the more you will learn to love it. Barcelona has something to offer all those willing and ready to be open to her charms and is an urban delight waiting to be discovered and rediscovered time and time again – no two visits will ever be the same or will ever leave you feeling indifferent. e

Gaudi’s famous Casa Batllo, on Barcelona’s busy Passeig de Gràcia

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THELEISURE HOTEL

WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS Photography Courtesy of Pullman Hotels and Resorts

HOTEL

Check In, Chill Out

The Pullman Barcelona Skipper

D

espite officially being part of Spain, Barcelona, capital of Catalunya, somehow feels like a whole new world; think Madrid and you are transported to the genteel Austrias quarter or the hustle and bustle of the Gran Vía; think Andalucía and the Moorish charm of Sevilla, the majesty of La Alhambra or the sparkling waters of the Costa del Sol stand out. All these areas have their own indisputable charm but there is something about Barcelona that fascinates international film directors, intellectuals and artists alike. Maybe it’s this city’s cosmopolitan flair, broad, elegant avenues, visionary architecture or unquestionable sophistication. Whatever it is, it continues to be a ‘dream city’ in the fashion of international favourites like Sydney, Milan or Tokyo.

Celebrating the charm of city life is easy from the Pullman Barcelona Skipper Hotel; located smack bang on the Olympic Port, it is a short walk away from the Barceloneta beach, a 10-minute ride from the city centre and a 12km drive from

the airport. It’s the perfect hotel for someone who doesn’t necessarily want to spend a great deal of time hopping on buses or making sense of complex subway maps, since many of Barcelona’s greatest treasures are close by; take the bustling El Born area – once a medieval town and now one of the coolest places in the city, with trendy bars, museums, shops and the renowned Pizza del Born, known for serving ‘the best pizza in Barcelona’. Further on is the famous La Rambla, with its flower sellers, cafés and display of trendy urbanites decked out in über-cool street fashion.

The Pullman Skipper is also known as the ‘runner’s paradise of hotels’, since it connects to a host of running circuits along the waterfront, where fitness fanatics can enjoy the fresh sea air and welcoming tranquillity, punctuated by the crashing of waves onto the shore. Those who wish to venture off to the Parque Güell or the Gaudi houses on the Paseo de Gracia, meanwhile, will be pleased to find the subway, buses, trams and taxis a few steps down from the hotel.

Barcelona is famed for its architectural offerings and The Pullman is itself a wonder of design, inspired on minimalism, modernism and avante-garde technologies. The hotel is four-sided and boasts two facades, both of which, interestingly, face the interior. A contrast of raw stone and architectural materials abound, though the dominating feature in the visual sense is glass, with a plethora of little ‘windows’ inviting natural light into the most unexpected places, including the bathrooms of all the rooms. Most aesthetically pleasing is an imposing glass pyramid, 10 metres high and 25 metres wide, so characteristic of the Hotel that an entire floor was built around it, containing an impressive number of meeting spaces measuring from as small as 40m2 to as spacious as 850m2. In total, the business area takes up an expanse of 1,000m2 and features state-of-the-art video and audio conference systems and service from a dedicated team, comprised of an Event Manager, IT Solutions Manager, hostesses and secretarial staff.

The hotel boasts 241 fully equipped rooms, divided into three categories: classic, superior and deluxe. All are spacious and well lit and offer panoramic views to Barcelona and the sea. The staff go all out to make you feel at home, offering an ample ‘pillow menu’, which along with the Egyptian cotton sheets, will make it easy to catch up on some R ‘n’ R. All rooms come with air conditioning, a minibar, highspeed Internet access, a sizeable LCD television with international satellite channels and a DVD player.

The ambience is delightfully modern

and youthful and particularly worthy of mention are the bathrooms, fitted with walk-in Italian glass showers or a sizeable Jacuzzi, whose waters are strewn with rose petals and romantic candle light for special occasions.

The Hotel has plenty to offer in terms of relaxation and enjoyment: five restaurants and bars, including Syrah, which serves Catalan cuisine in a surprising new fashion, and Malbec, serving creative Mediterranean temptations. There are two inviting pools: one nestled in the interior gardens and another on the attic, particularly swish and urban in ambience. The sports and leisure centre includes a fitness area and spa, where you can work out before giving in to your hedonistic urges with a delicious detoxifying massage.

I.T. experts take note: you’ve met your match at the Pullman Barcelona Skipper, which boasts its own Business Centre (featuring five computers, a CD and DVD rewriter, colour printing, etc.).

Additionally there is a connectivity lounge, developed in conjunction with Microsoft, which allows you to connect up, print and work using latest-generation computers and software, all with complete security.

The Pullman name may be new to some, but the group has 43 hotels in 16 countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle-East, the Asia-Pacific region and South America. Key regional and international cities are its focus, and guests from both the business and tourism sectors its market.

The Pullman Barcelona Skipper also welcomes, of course, anybody seeking a super cool hotel a few steps away from the most fabulous sites in Barcelona. e

The glorious swimming pool on the attic

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g Avda. del Litoral 10, Barcelona. Tel: 93 221 6565. www.pullman-barcelona-skipper.com 24/8/11 11:50:49

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RESTAURANT THEGOURMET

Schilo

the real thing WORDS By Michel Cruz

B

eing asked to review a restaurant is always fun, especially if it is a particularly good one. You find yourself looking forward to it, but simultaneously wonder if your taste buds are up to the job. I am no professional food critic, after all, just a regular mid-level diner who has had the privilege to travel and visit some memorable – and not so memorable – places.

The restaurant in question, Schilo, is situated in Finca Cortesin, roughly midway between Marbella and Sotogrande and therefore within easy range of both. Designed in a beautiful rustic style, this private domain exudes a real country club atmosphere, drawing from the elegance of its architecture, expansive layout and surrounding Mediterranean flora. In short, a surprisingly good spot for a top-level restaurant.

Rare delights

At this highly regarded venue, prepare to come face to face with menus that not only dance on the tongue but are truly interesting as well, not to mention beautiful on the plate. That there is artistry in such cooking is well accepted now, but it makes you marvel at the mix of creativity and technical skill that goes into it.

Our menu commenced with canapés in the form of smoky Lebanese baba ganoush – a mash of roast aubergine with olive oil and seasoning. Having thus woken up the taste buds, we sipped our L’hereu de Nit Rose 2008, a delicate rosé cava with a gorgeous pale pink colour. This was followed by a Venus clam, or concha fina, with sharp but well-balanced radish and spring onion drizzle, also beautifully offset by the cava.

The tartar of tuna belly was fresh and tasty, once again in perfect harmony

Schilo van Coevorden

Set within the luxurious Finca Cortesin Hotel, Schilo is a fine dining restaurant of a kind that it surprisingly rare on this coast but not so in the greater cities of the world. It is, in fact, a true gourmet’s restaurant, or place where real food lovers come to experience new sensations. Exquisite food is at the heart of what is being offered, but service and refined ambience complete the experience.

Fine antiques and colonial pieces clothe the large, tall rooms that form the lounge/reception and the main dining room, complemented in summer by a gorgeous terrace area.

Staff are on hand to see to every need, but as is important in these situations, their movements are swift, choreographed and well-timed to ensure the least interference.

The chef in question, Schilo van Coevorden, is a star of the Dutch culinary scene. Having made a name as a rising talent at, among others, Blakes and The College Hotel in Holland, he opened Schilo at Finca Cortesin some three years ago, bringing sous-chef David Wilcox over to run operations now that he has been asked to create a fine dining establishment at the Conservation Hotel in Amsterdam. David, who has worked with Schilo for six years, knows the system inside out and has even acquired a hint of a Dutch accent amid his Aussie twang.

with the Argiolas Costamolino 2009, a Sardinian white that was somehow crisp but endowed with body. This wonderful wine lingered for the next course, the parade of sweet Motril prawns, each prepared differently.

By now we were feeling decidedly well at ease with the world and the multinational diners that mirror the multinational staff. The daikon salad, consisting among others of sweet cherry tomatoes, frangipane and the Japanese daikon radish, all drizzled with a ginger seasoning, helped to refresh the palate in time for the next taste-sensation, this time in the form of a gorgeous lobster cappuccino served in a little espresso cup.

Meanwhile, our sommelier Augustín, took us northwards from Sardinia to France, with a luscious Bouchard Père & Fils 2008 Pouilly-Fuissé. This creamy, fruity Chardonnay from near Macon in Burgundy, accompanied us as we enjoyed the sea bass with black beans. The arrival of the meat dish prompted a return to Spanish soil as we savoured the Torcas 2004, a solid red from the region of Navarre. Not surprisingly the chef had matched it perfectly with the BBQ Wagyu beef and Japanese mushrooms. As a meat eater at heart, this was a true delight,

g Finca Cortesin Hotel Golf & Spa, Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800. www.fincacortesin.com 148ReR Schilo.indd 131

hearty and savoury yet showing a refinement that is the product of the quality ingredients and of course the skill of those preparing them.

We concluded the evening with a black forest chocolate tree that was something to behold; chocolate bark and branches hung with little mint leaves and filled with a creamy mousse. Quite frankly, brilliant, and the sort of thing you stare at in delight before conjuring up the ruthlessness to attack it with your spoon. Pampered by Maître d’Hotel Serge Sudre and his team, this was an experience to savour.

There are many fine restaurants in the greater Marbella area, and some that aspire to haute cuisine level, yet few really make it. In a country of top chefs, the Costa del Sol is perhaps somewhat lacking in this department, with a surprisingly small number of establishments that carry the coveted Michelin star. Schilo is very much the real deal; the kind of restaurant where the food, service and the setting are of such a standard that you feel Michelin stars are just a matter of time. g Tasting menus range: from 78-115€ per person + wine Opening times: Dinner from Thur to Sat from 8pm –11pm

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RESTAURANT THEGOURMET

GIRASOL G

irasol, founded in 1985 and nestled in the heart of the Nueva Andalucía golfer’s paradise (it is a three-minute drive from Las Brisas, Aloha Golf and Los Naranjos, and equally close to Puerto Banús), is one of Marbella’s longest standing, most popular restaurants. At a time when many gastronomic projects are being dreamed up, set up and shut down, its al fresco terrace is consistently abuzz with diners: couples and families; friends and golfers, who gather together under the welcoming shade of brightly coloured parasols to enjoy fantastic international cuisine with French and Scandinavian touches and a soothing glass of wine. Girasol is unassuming, unpretentious and traditional – “You won’t find sashimi or sushi here, or anything fusion,” laughs co-owner, Paul Monahan, who cites the secret for Girasol’s success as being value-for-money cuisine and top notch service offered in a rustic, cosy setting.

As a food writer, I find that it’s so much more than the culinary chemistry that turns a good restaurant into a regular ‘second home’ and the magic usually stems from its founders. Experience, people skills and a certain je nais se quoi are qualities that need to be present in abundance if we are to be inspired enough to leave the comfort of our

An Al Fresco Dining Haven For All Seasons WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GIRASOL AND GREGKOR PRODUCTION STUDIOS sofas for a night out once, or several times a week.

Girasol’s owners, Paul and Michel, know what clients crave almost as a matter of instinct, since they have been in the business for over 15 years. Paul, who has a degree in Hotel Management, has worked in big hotel chains and renowned restaurants for most of his professional life, coowning the hugely popular Chez Michel for six years, where Michel ruled the kitchens as Head Chef. At Girasol, Michel may have foregone the high temperatures of the kitchen to mingle with diners, but his eye for fine produce and exquisite French cuisine has ensured more than a subtle influence on the fare you will find: comforting, traditional delights which are difficult not to fall in love with, like the Michel fish cakes, made with a homemade spicy chutney; sticky spare ribs; or an irresistibly tender prime beef fillet with crisp French fries. Guilt is a useless sentiment here, since Paul and Michel invite you to toss the diet book aside and order what your heart truly yearns for.

My recent visit to Girasol, for a long-overdue, child-free dinner with my husband hit the spot in many

ways, some of which are quite difficult to define. Although the restaurant was brimming with diners we were instantly ushered to a beautiful table scented by the fragrance of flowers, where the sounds of laughter, the sight of golden haired children scurrying across and the clinking sound of crystal made us feel at home, basking in the golden glow of candlelight as we sipped on a chilled house white (a fruity Rioja bearing the respected name of Cune). The wine list is reflective of Girasol’s reasonable pricing, containing a nice selection of mainly Spanish wines, with a few French varieties to choose from.

The menu offers everything from pastas and salads to Scandinavian delights (such as the salmon gravadlax with Skagen prawns), as well as lamb, beef, veal, duck and fish and seafood dishes. My husband and I shared a starter I still dream of: a super fresh steak tartare, whipped up with a range of ingredients including pickles, onions and a flavourful sauce, which together spelled irresistible. My main course was a colourful medley of sea fare: a wonderfully fresh, buttery grilled salmon, beautifully tasting sea bream, prawns and baby

g Open daily for dinner from 6:30pm. Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. Tel: 952 813 859.

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calamari served with a tangy lemon butter sauce and a bright red tomato risotto: it was like savouring the very essence of the Mediterranean. My husband raved over his selection: a traditional, tender rack of lamb roasted with a crisp, flavourful parsley and garlic crust and served with creamy Dauphinoise potatoes.

A meal this good cannot end without a sweet note, so we shared a homemade strawberry cheesecake: so fresh and light we fooled ourselves into believing we had chosen the healthiest pudding.

The service is another strong point at Girasol, where the attentiveness of waiting staff like Gleny (who has been at Girasol for five years) means that you never need worry about asking for advice on the selection of wines or dishes, or wait too long to be asked if you’d like a top-up. We also enjoyed chatting with the charismatic Paul, whose gorgeous smile and interesting history are worth getting to know. By the end of the evening I was overtaken by a feeling of gratefulness: it felt good to be sitting on this beautiful terrace, to have so many wonderful things in my life and to enjoy magical dining experiences such as these. e

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THEGOURMET NEWS WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS

Alumbre Opens its Kitchens to the Public in Málaga

New Málaga restaurant, Alumbre, promises to bring something new to the area: an innovative concept in which traditional Andalusian dishes are prepared in an open kitchen which can easily be observed by diners. Restaurant founder, Juan Antonio Lara, aims for Alumbre to be “a new meting point where tradition is married to modernity and where new trends and a dynamic ambience are key players.” Top dishes include the ajoblanco with moscatel grapes and cured cheese, the hearty Alumbre burger or the watermelon, mint and yozu dessert.

Open daily for lunch and dinner. And for a true taste of Málaga, don’t miss out on the pescaito (fried frish) cucurucho (served in a cone). i Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Strachan 11, Málaga. Tel: 951 500 022.

Zero Kilometre Cuisine at El Lago

The Gallery Bar & Tapas Opens in Fuengirola Nick Nicol and Heather Hill, the couple behind The Gallery Bar & Tapas Fuengirola are passionate about food and great service, which they offer in abundance at their new culinary venture. At The Gallery, diners will find homemade tapas from around the world, a wellstocked bar, and a warm, welcoming ambience. The Gallery also caters for special events and parties, so if you’d like to celebrate or do business while tucking into mouthwatering small-sized dishes, you’ve found your ideal venue.

El Lago recently delighted customers with a menu fully inspired by local products which are part of the so-called ‘Zero Kilometre’ movement since you don’t have to travel far to source them. “Tomatoes, almonds, pine nuts, cheese, oily fish of the area such as tuna, mackerel and sardines, are our great inspiration. We personally know the farms and fishermen, which enables us to source the very best ecological produce,” said Paco García, Director of El Lago. Some of the most popular dishes on the menu include the medium-dry tomatoes with goats cheese from Archidona, arugula, pine nuts and quince.

Paco told us: “The customers love the taste of the tomatoes from El Morche in Vélez Málaga. They taste like tomatoes used to in the old days and their contrast with the subtle goats cheese and quince allow us to faithfully transmit the spirit of Málaga.” i Urb. Elviria Hills, Avda. Las Cumbres s/n,

Marbella. Tel: 952 832 371. www.restauranteelllago.com

i Open daily from 4pm onwards.

C/ Miguel Marqués 24, Fuengirola. Tel: 634 960 801. www.thegallerybarfuengirola.com

Mediterranean Cuisine shines at Andalucía Sabor Haute Cuisine Congress

The Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos de Sevilla will once again play host to the Andalucía Sabor Fair, a three-day event which will take place from September 20 to 22. One of the highlights will be the International Haute Cuisine Conference, featuring prestigious chefs from around the world who will be whipping up traditional recipes made with Mediterranean ingredients like fish, extra virgin olive oil and wine.

The chefs will also take part in debates about the Mediterranean diet, the seasonality of the produce and the characteristics of representative Mediterranean wines. i www.juntadeandalucia.es 134 / ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2011

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THEGOURMET WINE

A vineyard in New York

U

rban wineries are not urban myths. They really exist, even though you seldom hear about them, maybe because you do not find their products in your local wine shop. I have a rather old photograph that has never been published of an authentic vineyard planted in the back garden of a house in Alcester Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1967. The vintner, for want of a better word, was the late-lamented Peter Spencer Pearce, lover of all things Spanish – above all wine – and with whom I made many fascinating trips around Spain in the 1960s and 1970s. I have no idea what happened to the vineyard but it was, at the time, almost certainly the first urban vineyard in England, producing half a ton of grapes each year, and the red wine it produced was not half bad.

The capital of the world’s greatest wine producer, Paris, was originally a large village surrounded by vineyards that had been planted by the Romans, but as its population increased they all disappeared – except one. Clos Montmartre is even today a working vineyard in the shadow of Sacré-Coeur, and although it was destroyed by the phylloxera bug in the early 20th century, it was saved from extinction by a group of local artists who in 1933 persuaded the town hall to give them back the thenbarren vineyard for replanting.

It now turns out 1,500 half-litre bottles of gamay and pinot

noir each year, all of which are auctioned for charity. Rather surprisingly there are 150 vineyards of varying sizes in the Paris region.

Predictably, urban wineries are currently all the rage in the United States, where big was good and is now bad and small is beautiful and to be encouraged. The USA is home to hundreds of urban wineries, from New York to San Diego and most points in between. These are in many cases fully-operational commercial projects, even though the smallest growers only get to make a doublefigure number of bottles a year. Nor is it surprising that many of these wine-making centres double as restaurants and live entertainment venues. In states where the selling of home-grown wine is forbidden, it is becoming increasingly common to see vines growing on apartment terraces alongside pot plants.

You have to be a pretty keen wine aficionado to go this far as even a modest four kilos per vine (the maximum permitted for Chianti, for example) has to be forthcoming before you can really call yourself a vintner.

Between one and 1.2 kilos of grapes will make a 70cl bottle of wine, so you are going to need a rather large terrace if you want to drink your own produce year-round. And you would feel pretty stupid going to the local co-operative with a few boxes of grapes asking for them to be pressed and the

URBAN WINE

Words AJ Linn

resulting must given back to you for fermentation. So how do urban wineries press their grapes? Would you believe the same way as grapes have been pressed since the dawn of time? By foot. You can even try it sometime. Put a couple of kilos of grapes in a plastic tub and jump in – not forgetting to remove your shoes and socks first. When you stop feeling the whole grapes underfoot, filter off the juice into an open receptacle and leave a few weeks until the fermentation stops. You can then bottle it and hope it’s ready for drinking within six months. It will be pretty awful stuff as there is a lot more to winemaking than these few simple steps, but you will get the gist of it and it will be alcoholic!

Oddly enough England may be the foremost home of urban wine. Like France, the Romans planted the first grapes there, and the most successful collective for urban growers today is in London. (Yes, there really is a Chateau Tooting).

The Urban Wine Co started in 2007 when it made 20 bottles of wine and by 2009 this had grown to 1,000 bottles. The collective tells people how to grow grapes and get the highest yields, presses the grapes communally at a one-day event each autumn, and provided you have supplied at least three kilos of grapes you will receive 6 bottles of wine the following spring – bottled with your own label. The favorite colour is rosé, but when they get enough red grapes, Chateau Tooting may become a tinto urbano.

The only recorded urban winery in Spain is near Toledo,

at Viñedos Cigarral Santa María, an old mansion that serves as a country restaurant surrounded by vineyards. Started in 1997, it consists of seven hectares of century’s old olive groves on which are planted Shiraz/ Syrah, Merlot, Cencibel and Cabernet Sauvignon, spread out over three small plots. The grapes are aged in French oak and sold under the Pago del Ama label. They cannot be bad as Wine Advocate gave them a 94-point score, although they clearly did not take the price into consideration, an eye-watering €55 – rather a lot of money for a La Mancha wine. e

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RESTAURANTS

RESTAURANTS / CINEMAS / GOLF / GYMS /TENNIS

RESTAURANTS ::: AMERICAN ::: HARD ROCK CAFÉ

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

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

Jacks

/ SCHOOLS

TGI Friday’s

Montecarlo

Open from 12pm to 12am. Avda. Muelle de Ribera, locales 4-5, Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 993

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Avda. Litoral s/n, Estepona, in front of the Palacio de Congresos. Tel: 951 273 994

::: ARGENTINEAN ::: Buenos Aires South

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

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

Open seven days a week from noon till late.

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

Clericó

New york

Tango

Open from 1pm-4pm and from 7pm to 12am.

Ctra. de Cádiz, km.176, 29600, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 533

Open daily for dinner except Tuesdays. Puerto Banús (opp. the car park). Tel: 952 812 358

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

Centro Plaza, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 861

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda.

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

::: FRENCH :::

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

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

::: GREEK ::: Red Pepper

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

::: 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

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

Tel: 952 786 688

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

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

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

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

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

puente romano beach club Open every day for lunch. CN 340, km 177, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

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

::: INDIAN :::

Jaipur purple Open daily for dinner except Tuesday. C.C. Costasol, local 3, Estepona. Tel: 952 888 353

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

Massala

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

mughal village Open daily for lunch and dinner. Aloha Towers, Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 819 240

under €25

€25 – €40

Brunings

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Diana Park, Marbella. Tel: 952 886 338

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 7 pm.

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

baboo lounge and restaurant

Buddha beach

Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

Casa No.7, P. Banús. Tel: 952 812 090

safFron

Beach club don carlos

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 for lunch. At the Hotel Don Carlos.

Avda. Zurita s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

Taj Mahal

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 daily for lunch and dinner. Private parking available. Ctra. Cádiz, km 179 (behind Venta los Pacos). Tel: 952 857 670/ 629 244 659

::: INTERNATIONAL ::: alumbre

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

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

C/ Ortega y Gasset, Local 87, Marbella. Tel: 952 774 650

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

€60 plus

auld dubliner

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

Mumtaz

€40 – €60

beach club restaurante grill

beach house

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Villa Marina, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 813 882

Café tortuga Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces, esq. C.C. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 610 261 654

Calima Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Hotel Meliá Don Pepe, C/ José Meliá, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 764 252

capitán Open for lunch and dinner every day except Wednesday. C/ Avila, Blq. 5, Local 1, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 799 635

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Coto de los Doles, Carril del Relojero, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 839 458

casa gecko

beckitts

Casa mono

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

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

C/ Calderón Estébanez 19, Marbella.

Tel: 952 774 578

boulevard

Open Wednesday to Saturday for dinner. Plaza de los Naranjos 11, Marbella. Tel: 687 201 953

Open for dinner from 8pm. Avda. La Fontanilla, esquina Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 860 583

Casanis

bora bora

celima

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Gitanilla s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 789 100

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

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

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THEGUIDE

RESTAURANTS

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

895 639.

cerrado del águila Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

cortijo fain Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Ctra. de Algar, km. 3, Arcos de la Frontera, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 704 131

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

Don Quijote Open every evening for dinner (7pm-12am). Urb. El Rosario, km. 188, Marbella. Tel: 952 834 748

el bistro lounge de pan y mermelada Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Urb. Marbella Real, Local 16, Marbella. Tel: 952 829 308

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

El gran gatsby Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle de Honor, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 778 797

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

El lago

under €25

€25 – €40

C/ Belmonte, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. Tel: 952 814 145

Colonia, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 781 583

Galeria San Pedro

La Terraza

Open from 11am until midnight. Closed Sundays.

Avda Las Palmeras 15, San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 780 927

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

Open every night for dinner. C/ Aduar 1, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 687 508 242

girasol

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

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

Golden goose Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Blvd.

Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 764 648

Güey Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plza. de las Orquídeas 4, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. Tel: 952 929 250

hermosa Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm.

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

Herrero del Puerto

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

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

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. NH Alanda Hotel, Marbella. Tel: 952 899 600

LA biznaga

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

magna café

shiraz

Open every day for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 198, Mijas. Tel: 952 932 780

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Puerto Deportivo, Local 15, Marbella. Tel: 952 778 334

Mc café Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

Skina

Messina

Small world café

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday. Avda.

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

Open Monday to Friday for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 9am-2am, Saturday and Sunday for lunch and dinner, 12.30pm-2am. C.C. Le Village, local 15, Ctra. Istán km. 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 046

mil milagros Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch. CN340, km 179, Marbella.

Tel: 952 858 958

El oceano beach hotel restaurant & spa

La cabaña del mar

mozaic

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

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

Tel: 952 839 901

LA CANTINA DEL GOLF

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

Fabiola

La Esencia Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. Hotel Incosol, Urb. Golf Rio Real, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 831 303

sentidos

max beach

Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm.

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

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

schilo Open Thursday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Finca Cortesín. Crta. Casares s/n, Casares, Málaga. Tel: 952 937 800

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

la brisa

El Restaurante del Casino

Rojo

Open every day for lunch and dinner. At Sentidos en Río Real Hotel. Urb. Río Real s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 732

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

Tel: 952 809 500

Open for breakfast and lunch until 8pm.

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

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

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

EL MIRADOR

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

puente romano beach club

los arcos

los bandidos

khala

Open every night for dinner. Urb. La Alcazaba, CN340, km 175, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 100

puro beach

hotel marbella club buffet

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

polynesian’s restaurant & cocktail bar

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Laguna Village, Playa El Padrón. CN340, km. 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 800 015

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

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

karma

polo house Open daily for dinner from 7pm and Sunday Lunch, with club/dancing. CN 340, Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 11, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 380

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

Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 136. Playa Guadiaro, Torreguadiaro, Cádiz. Tel: 956 615 998 Open every night for dinner. Hotel Meliá La Quinta, Urb. La Quinta Golf s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 762 000

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

Patio de los perfumes

La Verandah

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

EL OLIVO

€60 plus

Mijas, between CN 340 and highway. Tel: 952 580 513

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner. CN340, km.

199, Marbella. Tel: 952 587 550

€40 – €60

Miraflores Golf Restaurant

nikki beach Open daily for lunch until 8pm. Playa Hotel Don Carlos, Marbella. Tel: 952 836 239

ocean club

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

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

sunset Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Puerto Deportivo de Marbella, Marbella. Tel: 952 776 667

Swing

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Lola Flores, s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 137

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

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

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

OCHO

tanino

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

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

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

La Menorah

oyarbide

Terra Sana

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

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Arena Beach, CN 340, km. 151.2, Estepona. Tel: 952 792 734

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sunday for lunch. C/ Acera de la Marina 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 772 461

Finca las brasas

LA SALA

passion café

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Ctra. Fuengirola-

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Open for lunch and dinner every day. C.C. La

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

Tel: 952 906 205. Golden Mile, Marbella. Tel: 952 777 480. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 977. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 951 901 050

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

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

Finca El Forjador

La Loggia

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t h e a rt of Fi n e T h a i C u i s i n e

952 818 392 or 670 748 415

RESERVATIONS:

Open Every Evening for Dinner Ctra. de Cรกdiz Km. 175 PUERTO BANร S (Behind The Shell Petrol Station) Marbella

TAI PAN

Chinese Cuisine - Polynesian Bar

Serving Marbella in a Select Atmosphere for 29 years.

Puente Romano, Fase 2, Marbella.

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00

Tel: 952 777 893 / 952 775 500

Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine Tel: 952 770 550 Open Mon-Sat.

C.C. Marbellamar, L-3A. Marbella.

NOW OPEN FOR

LUNCH & DINNER!

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RESTAURANTS

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

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

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

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 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

under €25

€25 – €40

Monday. Da Bruno Sul Mare: Edif. Skol, Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 318/19

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

dalli’s pasta factory

gold restaurant

la pappardella di estepona

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

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

umami

Da Bruno

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Colonia, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 637 558 927

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

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

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

What’s cooking deli and takeaway Open daily from 10am to 6pm. C.C. Guadalmina, Local 34, Marbella. Tel: 649 829 391

zozoï Open every day for dinner from 7.30pm-12am.

Open every night for dinner. C.C. Cristamar, Avda.

Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 608

Open daily from 12 noon. Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 669

Caruso

trocadero beach

MADE IN SARDINIA

De Medici

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

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

Open daily for both lunch and dinner, closed on Sundays. Paseo Marítimo Benabola, local 12, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 810 543

Metro

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

LA pappardella sul mare Leonardo da vinci

€60 plus

Luna Rossa

Open Monday to Friday for dinner and on Saturday and Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Second Line Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 871 / 952 818 623

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

Trocadero arena

€40 – €60

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

Pizzeria Picasso portofino laguna village Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

Ristorante Roberto Open daily for dinner. Beach Club, Hotel Puente Romano, CN-340, km 177.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

Rosmarino della Piazza Open Monday to Friday for lunch and daily for dinner. C.C. Pinares de Elviria, s/n, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 850 148

saleto

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

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. Avda. del Prado, Via 1, local 2, Aloha Golf, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 818 112

Lombardo’s

sol i luna

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

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner and Sunday for brunch. C/Sierra Bermeja s/n, Urb.

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Ancón Sierra, Las Lomas de Marbella Club, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 627

terraza dual Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Marbellamar s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 925 250

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

zafferano Open every night for dinner except Sunday. C/Gloria II, 11, Casco Antiguo, Marbella. Tel: 952 863 125

::: Oriental ::: Asia Food

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

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

Djawa Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Urb. Linda Vista Playa 8, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 783 055

Dragón de Oro Open every day from 12.30-4pm and 7pm until midnight. Closed Monday lunchtime.

Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 141, Urb. Hacienda Guadalupe, Manilva. Tel: 952 890 956

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

Kaede Open every day for lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Meliá La Quinta. Urb. La Quinta Golf, Marbella. Tel: 952 762 059

Kaiden Sushi Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Com. 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

meca Open every day for lunch and dinner.

C.C. Pino Golf, Don Carlos, Local 1, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 365 / 658 646 829

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

Osaka Open every day 13:30-16:00 & 19:30-24:00.

CN-340, km. 166 (Benavista). C.C. Costa del Sol. Tel: 952 885 751

RestaurantE asiático Bangkok Open daily for lunch and dinner. P. de las

Orquideas, C/ Iris, 11B, Edif. Excelsior no. 1, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 813 603

Sakura Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda.

Jardines del Puerto, L.5, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 536

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

Sukho Thai Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday.

Centro Comercial Marbellamar. Tel: 952 770 550

Sushi des artistes Open every day for lunch and dinner.

CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking.

Tel: 952 857 403

Sushi Katsura 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

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

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

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THEGUIDE

CINEMAS

RESTAURANTS

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

tHapa thai

::: SPANISH :::

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

€60 plus

Marbella. Tel: 952 776 190

la moraga

Open every day for lunch and dinner.

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

Cipriano

Bahía

Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Playas del Duque, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 077

Wasabi

El Barlovento

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

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

C/ Ramón Areces s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 448. Also open in C.C. Parque Miramar, Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 593 405

Open daily from 1.30 pm for lunch and dinner.

C.C. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 577

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

Buenaventura

La Taberna del Alabardero

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Plaza de la Iglesia, 5, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 069

Restaurante La Marina

Casa de la era

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

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

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

Wok Away Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 907 304

Wok Buffet

GOLF

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

under €25

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

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

Yuan Open every night for dinner. Hotel Torrequebrada, Benalmádena Costa. Tel: 952 441 414.

::: SCANDINAVIAN ::: Skandies

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm.

Closed Mondays. Avda. Antonio Belón, 26 (behind the lighthouse), Marbella. Tel: 952 776 323

::: SEAFOOD :::

cervecería ostrería santiago

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

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

RestaurantE Eddy & Marisa’s Urb. Coral Beach, The Golden Mile, Marbella.

Tel: 952 824 534

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

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

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

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

finca tabanko Open daily for lunch and dinner. Ctra. FuengirolaMijas, km. 4.2, mijas. Tel: 952 590 727

Mesón el adobe Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays.

Avda. La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3, Marbella. Tel. 600 003 144

Tragabuches Open from Tuesday to Sunday for both lunch and dinner. C/José Aparacio,1, Ronda (pedestrian street between bullring and Parador). Tel: 952 190 291

CINEMAS & THEATRES AUDITORIO MUNICIPAL MIJAS

Hacienda

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

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

AUDITORIO MUNICIPAL TORREMOLINOS

La Meridiana del alabardero

Marbella. Tel: 952 825 035

Open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays. Camino de la Cruz,

Garcia Morato, s/n. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 968

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

AUDITORIO PARQUE DE LA CONSTITUCIÓN CENTRO CULTURAL EL INGENIO CINESA LA CAÑADA

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La Cañada. Marbella. Tel: 902 333 231

Alhaurín Golf

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 442 742

cines gran marbella

Guadalmina Golf

Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 810 077

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

cinesur

Almenara Golf

La Cala Golf Resort

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

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

54 holes, Pars 71, 72 and 73.

Tel: 952 669 033. www.lacala.com

Aloha Golf Club

La Dama de Noche 9 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 818 150

MULTICINES MEDITERRÁNEO

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

Mijas. Tel: 952 663 738

Atalaya Golf

PALACIO DE LA PAZ

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 882 812. www.master-hotels.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 890 425

Recinto Ferial. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 589 349

TEATRO ALAMEDA

Cabopino Golf

Calle Córdoba 9, Málaga. Tel: 952 213 412

18 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 850 282

27 holes, Par 72.Tel: 952 762 390 www.laquintagolf.com

TEATRO CERVANTES

Cerrado del águila

La Reserva Sotogrande

Ramos Marín, 199, Málaga. Tel: 952 224 109

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 951 703 355

18 holes. Tel: 956 695 209

TEATRO CIUDAD DE MARBELLA

Club de Golf La Cañada

Plaza Ramón Martínez, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 159

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 794 100

La Zagaleta Golf & Country Club

El Paraiso Club de Golf

18 holes. Members only. Tel: 952 695 209

TEATRO SALON VARIETES

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 883 835

Lauro Golf 18 holes

Emancipación 30. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 474 542

Estepona Golf

Alhaurín de la Torre. Tel: 952 412 767

VERACRUZ CINES

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

Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club

Veracruz. Estepona. Tel: 952 800 056

Finca cortesín golf club

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 784 600

YELMO CINEPLEX

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

Los Naranjos Golf Club

Flamingos Golf Club

Marbella Club Golf Resort

GOLF GUIDE

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

18 holes, Par 73. Tel: 952 113 239

Alcaidesa Links

Golf Río Real

18 holes. Tel: 952 830 500

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

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 756 733

Mijas Golf

Golf Torrequebrada

36 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 476 843

MULTICINES ALFIL Avda. Camilo José Cela, s/n. Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 800 056

Plaza Mayor. Tel: 902 220 922

36 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 883 375

La Duquesa Golf & Country Club La Quinta Golf

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 815 206

Marbella Golf & Country Club

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HOTELS

GYMS

THEGUIDE Miraflores Golf

CENTRO DEPORTIVO EL FUERTE

788 315

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 931 960

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

MULTI SPORT

Monte Mayor Golf & Country Club

CENTRO DE YOGA Y SALUD INTEGRAL

Avda. Picasso 27. San Pedro. Tel: 952 782 801

18 holes. Tel: 952 113 088

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

New Concept Training

Parador Málaga del Golf

CENTRO PLAZA GYM

18 holes. Tel: 952 381 255

Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 074

Monte Paraíso Country Club, Camino de Camoján s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 843

Real Club de Golf Las Brisas

Cerrado del águila

02 CENTRO WELLNESS

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 810 875

Mijas Costa, Málaga. Tel: 951 773 523

Plaza del Mar. Marbella. Tel: 952 900 420

Real Club de Golf Sotogrande

CLUB DEl SOL

P-E SPORTS CLUB

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 785 014

San Roque Club

Tennis /paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

Urb. Parcelas del Golf, Aloha Gardens, N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 357

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 613 030

Dynamic training centre

qi sport

Santa Clara Golf

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

Urb. La Alzambra, Marbella. Tel: 952 907 090

18 holes. Tel: 952 850 111

FITNESS CENTRE NEW STYLE

SATURNIA REGNA

Santa Maria Golf & Country Club

Amapolas, s/n Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 916

Marbella Tel: 952 761 475, Elviria. Tel: 952 834 835

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 831 036

Fuerte Gym

SEVEN STARS SCHOOL

Sotogrande Club de Golf

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

18 holes. Tel: 956 785 012

GIMNASIO ESTADIO

Tai Chi & yoga. Pasaje Estrecho, Estepona.

Tel: 952 923 055

Valderrama

Trav. Huerta de los Cristales, Marbella.

Tel: 952 828 217

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 791 200 www.valderrama.com

SPORTCLUB ROUTE 66

HAPPY DIVER’S CLUB

Ctra. Mijas, 1.5km. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 461 648

GYMS & SPORTS CLUBS

Atalaya Park Hotel, Marbella. Tel: 609 571 920

SPORTING CLUB ATALAYA PARK HOTEL

HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

ALHAMAR GYM

CN340, Km77,5. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

CN340, Km 168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 888 212

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

MANOLO SANTANA RACQUETS CLUB

TICKET-TO-RIDE Cristamar, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 905 082

ATENAS

Ctra. de Istán, Km2. Marbella. Tel: 952 778 580

Barquilla 1. Marbella. Tel: 952 776 240

MARBELLA GUN & COUNTRY CLUB

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 902 362

AZTEC COUNTRY CLUB

Monda. Tel: 952 112 161

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa.

Tel: 952 934 477

MARBELLA SPORT

HOTELS

Km 171.5. San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952

Vitality studio

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CROWNe PLAZA

Incosol Hotel and Spa

Benabola Apart Hotel

CN 340, km 168, Estepona. Tel: 902 875 730

Urb. Golf Rio Real s/n. Marbella.

Tel: 952 828 500

Benabola. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 000

Kempinski Hotel bahía estepona

CN340, Km173. N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 811 517

finca cortesin hotel, golf & spa

CN340, Km159. Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

Golden Mile. Marbella. Tel: 952 824 500

La Cala resort

el oceano beach hotel

Crtra. Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

La Cala de Mijas Tel: 952 669 000

Gran hotel gvadalpín Marbella & SPA

Marbella Club Hotel

Miraflores Playa, Torrenueva, Marbella.

Tel: 952 587 550

CN340, Km180. Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

Golf Hotel Guadalmina

Bulevar del Príncipe Alfonso Von Hohenlohe, Marbella. Tel: 952 899 400

hotel Villa Padierna

Guadalmina Baja. Marbella. Tel: 952 882 211

CN340, Km166, Exit Cancelada. Benahavís.

Tel: 952 889 150

Gran Hotel Benahavis

Don Carlos resort, leisure & spa CN340, Km192. Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

Gran hotel gvadalpín puerto banús Arroyo El Rodeo, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella.

Tel: 952 899 700

vincci selección estrella del mar

blue day banús hotel Coral Beach

Huerta de Rufino, Benahavís.

Tel: 902 504 862

H10 Andalucía Plaza

CN340, km 190.5, Marbella. Tel: 951 053 970

CN340 Km 174. Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 812 000

José Meliá s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 770 300

Alanda Carib Playa

h10 Estepona palace

hotel los monteros

CN340, Km 194. Tel: 952 902 537

CN 340, km 187, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 700

Alanda Club Marbella

Avda. del Carmen 99, Playa de Guadalbón, Estepona. Tel: 952 790 040

Hotel Meliá La Quinta

CN340 Km192. Marbella. Tel: 952 902 537

HM gran hotel costa del sol

Urb. La Quinta Golf, Marbella.Tel: 952 762 000

Almenara Golf Hotel & Spa

La Cala de Mijas, Mijas Costa.

Tel: 952 587 710

Gran Meliá Don Pepe

Hotel Puente Romano

Avda. Almenara s/n. Sotogrande.

Tel: 956 582 000

CN340, Km179. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

Amanhavís Hotel & Restaurant

Hotel Torrequebrada

C/ Pilar 3. Benahavís. Tel: 952 856 026

Avda. del Sol s/n, Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 446 000

Atalaya Park Hotel

Hotel Triton Avda. Antonio Machado, 29. Benalmádena Costa. Tel: 952 443 240

hotel suites duquesa golf & Spa CN340, km 143, Manilva. Tel: 952 891 211

CN340, Km168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 889 000

barceló Marbella C/ de Granadillas, s/n. Urb. Guadalmina Alta, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 099

Hotel El Fuerte Avda. El Fuerte, s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 861 500. Spa & Beauty Miramar. Tel: 952 920 000

Hotel Fuerte Miramar Spa Pl. José Luque Manzano. Marbella.

Tel: 952 768 400. Spa & Beauty Miramar.

Tel: 952 768 410

Hotel Meliá Marbella

Beatriz Palace & Spa

CN340, Km175. Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 810 500

CN340, Km207. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 922 000

Hotel Playa Bonita

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MARKETS

SCHOOLS

THEGUIDE CN340, Km217. Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 442 840

Tel: 952 887 659

Colegio San José Guadalmina

HOTEL PYR MARBELLA

Tel: 952 883 858 Estepona. Tel: 952 800 148

Hotel Princess Playa

Dolphin Nursery

Paseo Marítimo. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 944

Avda. Rotary International, s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 353

NH Alanda Hotel & Spa

NH SAN PEDRO

CN340, Km176,6. Marbella. Tel: 952 899 600

NH Marbella

C/ Jerez 1, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 853 040

C/ Conde Rudi, s/n. CN340, Km178. Marbella.

Tel: 952 763 200

sisu boutique hotel puerto banús

Parador de Ronda

CN 340, km 173, Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 906 105

Plaza de España, s/n. Ronda. Tel: 952 877 500

TRAINS

TOURIST

TENNIS

pierre & vacances CALEDONIA GOLF resort

sChools

Ages 6 months-5 years. San Pedro.

Tel: 952 799 563

Ecos College Ages 1–18. Elviria.

Tel: 952 831 027

English InteRnational College Ages 3–20. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 058/9

Fiona Jones School of Dance Ages 9–14. Manolo Santana Racquets Club.

Fuengirola. Tel: 610 764 439

Hijas de María Auxiliadora

Aloha College

Ages 3-12. Marbella. Tel: 952 771 396

Ages 3-18. Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 133

III language schools

playabella spa gran hotel

Angela’s School

Urb. Costalita s/n, Estepona. Tel: 959 528 253

Ages 6-14. Marbella. Tel: 952 823 042

Selenza estepona thalasso & spa

Ages 18 months-6. Marbella. Tel: 952 779 264

San Pedro. Tel: 952 778 492 Marbella. Tel: 952 822 191 Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 908 558 Estepona. Tel: 952 794 059

CN340, Km165, Estepona. Tel: 952 899 499

Calahonda International College

CN340, km 165, Cancelada exit. Estepona.

Tel: 952 889 999

SENTIDOS Hotel

british school of marbella

Inlingua Language School All ages. Marbella. T: 952 774 942

CN340, Km185, Urb. Golf Rio Real s/n.

Marbella. Tel: 952 765 732

Ages 3-18. Tel: 952 930 080

the InteRnational SCHOOL of ESTEPONA

Calpe School

Ages 2-12. Estepona. Tel: 952 884 789

Sunset Beach Club

Ages 2 1/2–11. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 029

Avda. del Sol, 5. Benalmádena Costa.

Tel: 952 579 400

Childrens placE Bilingual nursery

Laude San pedro international college

Tamisa Golf Hotel

Atalaya, Estepona. Tel: 952 928 444

Mayfair Academy

Camino Viejo de Coín. Km 3.3. Mijas Golf.

Tel: 952 585 988

Colegio Alborán Ages 3-18. Ricmar.Tel: 952 839 645

Ages 4-18. Atalaya Park, Estepona.

Tel: 952 784 923

TRH el paraíso

Colegio Alemán

Monseñor Rodrigo Bocanegra

CN340, km 167, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 000

Ages 3-18. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 417

Ages 3-16. Marbella. Tel: 952 770 077

Colegio Las Chapas

Performing Arts Academy

Ages 5–18, girls school. Elviria. Tel: 952 831 616

Ages 3-18. Marbella. Tel: 952 906 865

Hotel diana park CN 340, km 168.5, Estepona.

Ages 2–18. San Pedro. Tel: 952 799 900

Peter Pan School

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Maro Close to the Nerja Caves, 9am-1pm Mijas Costa Las Lagunas, 9am-2pm Nueva Andalucía Next to the bullring. Park

Ages 2-8. San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 606

Monda C/ Los Huertos, 8am-2:30pm Nerja C/ Chaparil, 9am-1pm Wednesday Alhaurín de la Torre

Sotogrande International School

Avda. del Limón, 9am-2pm

Ages 2–18. Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 902

benahavís

Sunday benahavís Arts & Crafts. La Ermita Park,

St. Javier’s International School

Arts & Crafts. Village Square, from 8pm

from 10pm

Ages 1-7. Marbella. Tel: 952 823 457

Benalmádena Costa (Second hand items) Recinto Ferial, 10am-2pm

Ages 4-16. Tel: 952 900 453

Calahonda

Estepona Puerto Deportivo, 9am-1pm Fuengirola Recinto Ferial, 9am-2:30pm Málaga Next to Rosaleda football stadium,

Puente Romano TEnnis club

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Sunny View School

Calypso, 9am-2pm Estepona Avda. Juan Carlos II, 9am-2:30 pm Istán At the entrance to the town, 9am-2pm La Cala Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

9am-2pm

Sotogrande At the Marina, 9am-1pm

El Rosario. Marbella.

Tel: 952 837 651

Thursday Alhaurín El Grande By the Guardia Civil

TENNIS CLUBS Aztec Country Club

Tourist offices

Ages 0-3. Bilingual nursery. San Pedro. Tel: 952 782 051 Benalmádena. Tel: 952 562 103

Saint George’s School

Ages 2–18. Torremolinos. Tel: 952 383 164

Swans international school el capricho Ages 3–10. Marbella. Tel: 952 773 248

Swans international school Sierra blanca Ages 11–18. Marbella. Tel: 952 902 755

TLC Tutorial College Ages 13-18. Calahonda. Tel: 952 933 249

wendy kindergarten Ages 4 months - 5 years. Marbella.

Tel: 952 772 910

Street Markets

Offfices, City Centre, 9am-1pm Málaga Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre. 9am-1pm San Pedro By the sports pavilion, in the Divina Pastora district, 9am-2pm Torre del Mar Avda. Europa, 9am-1pm Torremolinos El Calvario, near Town Hall, 9am-1pm Vélez Málaga Opposite the Guardia Civil Offices, City Centre, 9am-1pm

Monday benahavís Arts & Crafts. Village Square,

Friday Benalmádena In the area between Tivoli

from 8pm

World and the Plaza San Pedro, 9am-1pm Calahonda Calypso, 9am-2pm Las Chapas La Víbora, 9am-2pm Rincón de la Victoria Málaga.Plaza de la Iglesia, 9am-1pm

Marbella Fairground (Avda. de Juan Alameda), 9am-2:30pm

Tuesday Churriana 9am-1pm Fuengirola Recinto Ferial (close to the CN340, on the same side as the bullring), 9am2:30pm

Saturday Coín C/ Urbano Pineda, 9am-1pm La Cala Recinto Ferial, 9am-1pm

near CN340 and walk upwards, 9am-1pm

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa. Tel: 952 934 477

bel air tennis and paddel club Urb. Bel-Air, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 221

Club deL Sol Tennis/paddle classes. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 939 595

Club de tenis don carlos Hotel Don Carlos, Avda. Zurita, CN340, km 192.

Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

Club Internacional de Tennis Ctra. Cádiz, km 173. Marbella.

Tel: 952 813 341

Club Madroñal Benahavís. Tel: 617 647 223

Club Nueva Alcántara San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

Hofsaess tennis academy Monte Elviria (next to German School).

Tel: 952 835 812

Lew Hoads Tennis Club Ctra. de Mijas, Km 3,5. Mijas.

Tel: 952 474 858

Manolo Santana Racquets Club Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella.

Tel: 952 778 580

Miraflores Tennis Club Urb. Miraflores, Km 199. Calahonda.

Tel: 952 932 006 Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

Tenis El Casco

Benahavís Tel: 952 855 500 Benalmádena Tel: 952 442 494 Estepona Tel: 952 802 002 Fuengirola Tel: 952 467 625 Gibraltar Tourist Board Tel: 956 774 950 Marbella Tel: 952 822 818 Málaga Tel: 952 213 445 / 952 216 061 Mijas Tel: 952 485 900 Ronda Tel: 952 871 272 San Pedro Tel: 952 785 252 Tarifa Tel: 956 680 993 Torremolinos Tel: 952 381 578

TRAIN

Customer assistance T: 952 128 267 General Info T: 902 240 202 Reservations T: 902 240 202 Ave T: 952 128 079

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THEGUIDE FAMILY

KIDS Gym. Contact Fiona on Tel: 663 646 040. www.danzzas.com 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 gokarts, trampolines, mini-motorbikes, mechanical bull. Open daily. East side of Marbella. Tel: 952 823 359

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

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 9am8pm. 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 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

Crocodile Park

Educational park with more then 300 monsters. Pose with baby crocodiles. Open 10am-6pm. C/ Cuba, 14, Torremolinos. Tel: 952 051 782

El Refugio del Burrito

Donkey sanctuary just 40 minutes north of Málaga.

Open 11am-7pm. Fuente de Piedra, Málaga. Tel: 952 735 513 Danzzas Ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap, theatre craft and hip-hop for kids. Classes at the Manolo Santana Racquets Club and at Plaza

Inter Marbella Football Academy Football Academy for boys

and girls of all ages, just opposite La Cañada in Marbella. Training is on Mondays and Wednesdays. Call Craig on Tel: 609 310 409. www. intermarbellacf.com Karting Club Málaga Go-kart circuit for kids and adults who feel a need for speed. Open 10am-midnight.

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 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 Megabowl & Sports Bar This bowling centre boasts state-of-the-art tenpin bowling lanes as well as great food, drinks and entertainment. C.C. La Cañada, Ctra. Ojén, Marbella. Tel: 902 232 999. www.megabowlmarbella.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 walk-though 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 10am-9pm. 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 10am-1pm. 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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THEGUIDE PETS

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

WAPPY DOG: THE POOCH THAT DOESN’T POOP! If you’re a parent and you’re being driven bonkers by your children’s insistence on owning their very own pooch or moggie, why not take it one step at a time and buy them Nintento’s Wappy Dog: a pet which your kids can raise in the real world (with a robotic dog) or enjoy in the virtual world (with a Nintendo DS). Teach Wappy how to do tricks, play games and even talk, and ensure his personality, level of skills and overall happiness evolves at an ideal pace, by paying him all the daily attention he needs. The Nintendo press office released a statement expounding the virtues of Wappy: “This oneof-a-kind toy and video game combines a strong emotional bond and exciting virtual experience with the interaction of a physical pet. Wappy Dog is a truly innovative next generation toy and video game that gives kids an instant companion.” Once your kids have proven they are responsible enough to raise a real pet, remember the hundreds of dogs and cats in shelters who are waiting for a forever home and a family who will give them all the love and care they need.

KEEP CHEWING GUM AWAY FROM DOGS!

Xylitol is a healthy natural sugar which has the texture and volume of normal cane sugar but which does not cause insulin to spike and which has less calories than white or brown sugar. Xylitol also staves off tooth decay, making it an ideal sweetener for most modern day chewing gums.

It can also be deadly for dogs. If you chew gum, be very careful not to leave the latter lying about, since xylitol causes sugar levels to drop drastically in dogs, leading to hypoglycemia and possibly, death. Signs to watch out for include weakness, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea and seizures. If you suspect your dog has consumed this toxin, take it to the vet immediately, since liver damage, blood clotting and death could be the results of waiting too long to seek emergency service.

CAN DOGS SEE COLOURS?

For some reason, many of us have grown up with the myth that dogs only see in black and white. In actual fact, dogs do see colours, since their eyes contain cells called cones, which ‘catch’ light and respond to colour. Human beings have cones too, though we have three (one more than dogs). Dogs have similar visibility to people suffering from colour blindness, who can appreciate a spectrum of colours which is somewhat narrower than those with a ‘normal’ cone count.

Scientist Jay Neitz of the University of California, Santa Barbara, recent investigated the colour vision of dogs, showing them three light panels: two in the same colour and a third in a different shade. The dogs’ goal was to press the panel that was different. Neitz concluded that dogs see three main colours: yellow, blue and gray.

The colours green, yellow and orange all seem yellowish to a dog, while violet and blue are seen as blue. Bluegreen tones are seen as grey. Red, meanwhile, is seen as brown, grey or even black. This is why when you are looking to buy a fun toy for your pooch, you should avoid red and orange tones and opt for blue, as this bright colour is easier for them to appreciate.

A Northern Talapoin Monkey is born in Bioparc Fuengirola Staff at Bioparc Fuengirola are excited about their newest baby: a little Northern Talapoin monkey, born in the summer and fully integrated into its new family.

Congratulations are in order, especially considering that this species is extremely difficult to breed in captivity. The park now has three female and six male talapoins, and the baby’s sex is unknown as of yet, since it hasn’t separated from its mother long enough to be determined. i www.bioparcfuengirola.es

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El Juicio de Paris, Guillermo Pérez Villalta

WHAT’S ON IN SEPTEMBER

THEGUIDE WHAT’S ON Events continued from AUGUST Until September 4 ART EXHIBITION – MÁLAGA

The Contemporary Art Centre of Málaga exhibits the works of one of Europe`s most renowned artists, Luc Tuymans, who is inspired by terrible moments in history such as the holocaust. Tel: 952 120 055. www. cacmalaga.org

Until September 10 SUMMER FUN FOR KIDS – ESTEPONA

Let your kids have the time of their lives at the Children’s Summer Camp at El Campanario Golf & Country House, where they can enjoy activities such as golf, tennis, swimming, dancing, artwork, etc. For children aged four to 16. Minimum groups of 5, maximum of 20. Tel: 952 904 233. www.elcampanariogolf.com

Until September 15 ART EXHIBITION – ESTEPONA

Little Masterpieces is the title of a joint exhibition currrently on show at Stoa Gallery in Marbella. Artists include Mª Jesús Ramírez, Annabel Overbury and Belén R. Esturla. Tel: 951 318 426. www.stoagallery.com

Until September 18 ART EXHIBITION – BENALMÁDENA

If photography is your thing, don’t miss out on this interesting exhibition by Carlos Pérez Siquier, featuring 50 photographs taken over 50 years of the Parque Natural Cabo de Gata-Níjar. The artist presents three worlds: figurative, abstract and magical/realist, through photos of ruins, animals, skeletons, geological formations and light. At the Centro de Exposiciones de Benalmádena. Viewing hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm and 6:30pm to 9pm, Sundays and holidays from 11am to 1:30pm. Closed Sundays. Tel: 952 562 820. www.benalmadena.es

Until September 21 ART EXHIBITION – MARBELLA

Juan Enrique Mendoza, famed for his bullfighting paintings, presents his latest works at the Casino Marbella. The exhibition can be viewed every day from 9pm onwards.

The presentation of your DNI/NIE/passport at the door is necessary. Tel: 952 814 000. www.casinomarbella.com

Until September 23 PAINTING EXHIBITION – MARBELLA

Menchu Gal, La Alegría del Color is a new exhibition at the Museo Cortijo de Miraflores de Marbella, featuring a host of colourful paintings by Basque painter, Menchu Gal. The exhibition has already toured across Spain and can be viewed from Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm and 4pm to 9pm. Tel: 952 902 714. www.fundacionmenchugal.com

Until September 24 LITHOGRAPHY EXHIBITION – MARBELLA

The Museo del Grabado Contemporáneo Español presents an exhibition with works by Francis Bacon, David Hockney, John Davies, Frank Auerbach, Lucian Freud and many more artists. Tel: 952 765 741. Open Monday and Saturday from 9am to 2pm and Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 2pm and 3pm to 9pm. www.museodelgrabado. com

Until September 25 EXHIBITION – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso de Málaga presents Through The Lens of David Douglas Duncan: a series of photographs of Pablo Picasso at work. Tel: 952 602 731. www.museopicassomalaga.org

and Knut’s Gastrobar. In Nueva Andalucía at Cafetería La Toscana. In Marbella at Bar El Bocata Express and Café Bar El Reloj. www.marbella.es

Until September 30 DANCE MUSIC – PUERTO BANÚS

NEW AND REGULAR EVENTS

Hed Kandi, one of the most stylish names in House Music, presents a series of glamorous DJ-spun parties at Tibv disco every Wednesday night. Tel: 952 810 918. www.tibubanus.com

Until October 1 LITHOGRAPHY EXHIBITION –MARBELLA

Artist Eugenio Ampudia presents Satellite: an exhibition about culture and its importance in the modern world. At the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo. Open Monday and Saturday from 9am to 2pm and Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 2pm and 3pm to 9pm. www.museodelgrabado. com

Until October 2 EXHIBITION – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso de Málaga presents Cartoons on the Front Line, an exhibition highlighting Pablo Picasso’s ethical involvement, on both a personal and an artistic level, in the historic events taking place in his homeland in 1937. Further information, Tel: 952 602 731. www.museopicassomalaga.org

Until October 9 ART EXHIBITION – MÁLAGA

The CAC Málaga presents a fascinating exhibition by Guillermo Pérez Villalta entitled The Metamorphoses and Other Mythologies: a series of over 40 paintings and drawings inspired by Ovid’s Metamorphosis. The exhibition is divided into four themes: Old and New Testament stories, battles, patriarchy and the myth of the artist. 952 120 055. Tel: www. cacmalaga.org

Until December 31 CAFÉ Y LIBROS – SAN PEDRO, NUEVA ANDALUCÍA, MARBELLA

The Delegación de Cultura de Marbella has set up five libraries in local bars, to foment the love or reading and networking with fellow intellectuals. In San Pedro at Flanker Bar

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.

Monthly on different days FILM SHOWING AND DINNER – MARBELLA

Every Third Tuesday of the Month FLORAL ART CLUB – ESTEPONA

AMERICAN CLUB – MARBELLA

Every first Wednesday of the month CULTURE AND COCKTAIL – MARBELLA

AMIGOS DE LA CULTURA – COSTA DEL SOL

Every Wednesday TOASTMASTERS CLUB – MARBELLA

Every Monday SALSA CLASSES – MARBELLA

Every Wednesday and Thursday CINE CLUB – MARBELLA

The Marbella International Film Festival hosts Oscar Nights, which include a showing of a major Oscar winning film and dinner at the H10 Andalucía Plaza Hotel. Tel: 952 812 000. www.marbellafilmfestival.com

The American Club Costa del Sol Chapter meets monthly for excursions, sports and social events. Tel: 952 772 789. www.americanclubcostadelsol.com

Meets at different times and places for lunches, lectures, tickets to concerts, ballet, theatre, opera, etc. Further information, Tel: 669 445 809. smartkidsmarbella@gmail.com

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 and Wednesday LANGUAGE WORKSHOPS – MIJAS PUEBLO

Spanish/English and English/Spanish conversation with fellow native speakers, 10-11:30am. Further information on meeting points, Tel: 952 589 010. www.mijas.es

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Monday July 11 onwards KIDS CREATIVE WORKSHOP – MARBELLA Painting, arts and crafts classes for kids aged seven to 11 at the Joy Arts Studio, taught by popular artist, Joy Fahey. From 10:30am to 1:30pm. Tel: 669 050 254.

Meets 3-5pm monthly with NAFAS demonstrators at El Campanario Golf & Country Club. Further information from Marilyn Pemberton, Tel: 952 928 197.

The Association of Art and Culture holds a monthly cocktail party at Magna Café, Magna Marbella Golf. Tel: 952 929 249. www.culturamarbella.org

Weekly meetings of this public speaking organisation, 7:30pm at Aloha Gardens, Nueva Andalucía. Further information, www.toastmastersmarbella.com

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 Thursday 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

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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 First Saturday of the Month ORIGINAL ROCK & ROLL DANCE CLUB – NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

Rock & roll music from the late 1940s to the early 1960s spun by resident DJ Tall Mike, with visiting acts and stalls selling memorabilia.

10pm – 3am at La Flor de los Naranjos restaurant. Entry free.

Further information, Tel: 952 913 285. www.activesoundproductions.com

Every Saturday and Sunday KIDS’ CAMP – MARBELLA

Aloha Gardens Multi-Sports Club weekend camps for children aged 4-14, 10:30am-1pm.

Activities include tennis, football, cricket, basketball, hockey, handball, paddle tennis.

Aloha Gardens, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 086. www.themultisportsclub.com

Every First Sunday of the month OPEN DAY – MIJAS PAD animal shelter, Cerros del Águila, welcomes visitors from 12-3pm. Further information, Tel: 952 486 084. www.padcatsanddogs.org

Friday, September 2 CONCERT – MANILVA

Singer Rowetta will be performing live at the beautiful Cortijo La Vizcaronda at a fundraising gala for Animals in Need. Tel: 951 276 115.

Monday, September 5 TAROT WORKSHOP – MARBELLA

Gill Jaxson will be holding a fun, one-day ‘Tarot Taster’ from 11am to 5pm at Restaurante Amapola. Price is €59, including lunch. Please bring your own set of tarot cards. Tel: 952 774 650. www.amapolamarbella.com

Monday, September 5 until November 7 JOINT ART EXHIBITION – MIJAS COSTA

Venta El Jinete in La Cala will be home to the exciting joint exhibition In Cahoots, featuring the work of five female artists: Margit Björklund from Sweden; Elaine Carlton, Lavinia Croft and Sally Huntington from England; and Ursula Williams from Peru. You will find works in oil paint, coloured pencils, fabric and thread. Available for viewing from 1pm to 10pm every day except Friday. Tel: 952 119 170.

Wednesday, September 7 FAIR – MIJAS

Mijas celebrates its own feria featuring dance, tapas and traditional drinks like the rebujito.

At the Caseta Municipal. Tel: 952 485 900. www.mijas.es

Friday, September 9 until Sunday, September 11 MUSICAL REVUE – FUENGIROLA

The Salon Varietes Theatre presents Divas and Divos, a musical revue devised and directed by the talented John Pyne. Show starts at 8pm.

Tel: 952 474 542. www.salonvarietestheatre. com

Saturday, September 10 NATIONAL DAY – GIBRALTAR

Fancy dress competitions, balloons, street parties and stalls throughout the day. For a full programme of events, Tel: +350 200 48063. www.miniculture@gibtelecom.net

Maná – Málaga

Mexican pop group Maná play at the Estadio Atletismo Ciudad de Málaga at 10pm. Tickets can be purchased on www.entradas.com

Wednesday, September 14 TOURIST DAY – MIJAS PUEBLO

Mijas celebrates the Day of the Tourist with stalls, information booths and more. Tel: 952 485 900. www.mijas.es

Thursday, September 15 until Sunday, September 18 WOMENS GOLF OPEN – MARBELLA

The Open de España Femenino kicks off at La Quinta Golf & Country Club, with over 60 participants from across the country vying for the winning trophy. For information on precise times and events, Tel: 952 762 400. www. laquintagolf.com

Thursday, September 15 and Friday, September 16 HERBIE ARMSTRONG – MARBELLA Britain’s Got Talent contestant, Herbie Amstrong delights audiences with his dulcet tones at Polo House. For bookings and times, Tel: 952 900 380. www.polohousemarbella. com

Friday, September 16 TAKE THAT AND WESTLIFE TRIBUTE – FUENGIROLA For one night only, the stage of the Salon

Varietes Theatre in Fuengirola lights up with performances paying tribute to two of the UK’s top boy bands: Take That and Westlife. The show starts at 8pm. Tel: 952 474 542. www.salonvarietestheatre.com

DEAN MARTIN TRIBUTE – ESTEPONA

Local performer Dave pays homage to Dean Martin in a fun tribute show at Tikitano restaurant. Show starts at 9pm. Tel: 952 798 449. www.tikitano.com

Sunday, September 18 TRIPLE A EVENT – MARBELLA

Triple A is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a fun-filled open day featuring a flea market, paella, drinks and live music. The action starts at 12pm. Tel: 952 771 586. www.aaahelps.com

Tuesday, September 20 FLOWER ARRANGEMENT– ESTEPONA The Estepona Floral Art Club presents a fun flower arrangement demonstration by expert Charles Barnard between 3pm and 5pm at The Oak Restaurant in Benamara. Tel: 951 170 573.

focused and empowered and live the life you always wanted to. Tel: 639 845 185. www.yoga-in-marbella.net

Wednesday, September 28 to Sunday, October 2 THEATRE – FUENGIROLA

The Salon Varietes Theatre presents Edward Albee’s theatrical hit, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, under Matt Murphy’s direction. Show starts nightly at 8pm except Sundays, when it starts at 7pm. Tel: 952 474 542. www.salonvarietestheatre.com

Friday, September 30 RAT PACK TRIBUTE – ESTEPONA

If you love the music of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin, don’t miss out on The Rat Pack Live, a homage to the enigmatic trio, at Tikitano at 9pm. Tel: 952 798 449. www.tikitano.com

Teatro Cervantes

Friday, September 23 ART EXHIBITION – BENALMÁDENA

Friday, September 16 OPERA

origin of symmetry – málaga

Saturday, September 23 and Friday, September 24 CLASSICAL MUSIC

The Tierra del Sol women’s association presents Tierra del Sol: an exhibition by French artist, Tatiana Sonine, whose paintings have garnered countless prizes. At the Casa de la Cultura until October 23. Tel: 952 444 698. www.benalmadena.com

Alternative/cult band Origin of Symmetry plays at Sala Paris 15 at 10pm. Tickets can be purchased online at www.nvivo.es

Wednesday, September 28 YOGA RETREAT – MARBELLA

Lori Sjollema and Sharon Nemes hold a four-night yoga retreat, sharing their vast knowledge in Ashtanga, Lyengar, Jivamukti, Anusara and Raja Yoga. At the workshop, held in a lovely retreat centre in the Andalusian countryside, learn how to become more

Edmon Colomer directs the Málaga Opera Chorus in a performance of Symphony Number 3 in D Minor by Gustav Mahler.

At 8pm.

Enjoy music by composers E. Von Dohnányi, J. Brahms and Z. Kodály at 8:30pm on Friday, September 23 and at 8pm on Saturday, September 24. Directed by Edmon Colomer, the evening will feature traditional Hungarian dance music, a violin and orchestra concert and the popular J. Brahms composition: El Pavo.

Sunday, September 25 CHILDREN’S CHOIR

The Saint-Marc Children’s Choir, founded in France in 1986 by Nicolas Porte and performing regularly at the Nôtre Dame de Fourvière Basilica, sing a variety of songs including Gregorian chants, popular music, folk and contemporary songs. At 7pm.

Friday, September 30

Top Spanish actors Emma Suárez, Fernando Soto and Daniel Grao perform in La Avería (Traps), Swedish playwright Friedrich Dürrenmat’s play about a fabric seller whose Studebaker breaks down and forces him to accept an invite from a strange old man to form part of a surreal dinner party. At 9pm.

Tel: 952 224 100. www.teatrocervantes.com

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THEGUIDE STARS

Annie Heese is the founder of astrology website, www.cafeastrology.com, a site featuring articles, love sign compatibility reports, predictions, the gen on famous people and their star signs, and general information for astrology buffs.

ARIES [21 MAR - 20 APR]

LEO [23 JUL - 22 AUG]

SAGITTARIUS [22 NOV - 21 DEC]

Work projects move forward and gain momentum in September. You’re especially busy, finding ways to eliminate waste so that you’re more productive. Being busy actually feels good, and this is a strong month for getting a whole lot accomplished. While you may have been ‘living in the past’ on a romantic level in August, this month you’re looking forward. Answers to relationship questions can come on the 27th-30th, when you’re getting serious about your future. Some of you could also begin a new partnership at this time.

If you have been waiting for a loan, financial aid, mortgage, or settlement, this is the month when you’re likely to get the good news. Money is a strong focus and you are in a good position to improve your lot in life. Love becomes more about sharing the little things with a special someone after the 14th.

After the 18th, the pace of your life picks up, and you have the energy to move mountains. The 23rd-24th brings a partnership to life, and possibly news of a trip.

This is one of the more public and accountable periods of the year for you. New directions in your career are in store. While career matters take center stage, there is plenty of room in your life for recreation, enjoyment of friends, and even a spot of adventure. A family member demands special attention around the 12th. Don’t pass up on any invites you might receive around the 23rd-24th, when opportunities to expand your horizons can arise.

TAURUS [21 APR - 20 MAY]

VIRGO [23 AUG - 22 SEP]

CAPRICORN [22 DEC - 19 JAN]

The first four weeks of September can be especially creative, romantic and fun. Others are finding you appealing, and you are making time for recreation. You could be feeling particularly amorous. Creative Bulls will find plenty of inspiration. Recently, there has been much focus on the past in your love life, but September brings forwardlooking energy to your relationships. Home life is improving this month. In the last few days of September, there is a need to get serious about your work and health.

More clarity and a stronger sense of purpose are with you this month. Money matters tend to be strong, although there can be a need to get serious about your finances towards the end of September. It’s important that you get all of your paperwork into order. Around the time of the Full Moon on the 12th, a relationship matter can come to light. Your powers of attraction are especially strong until the 14th with loving Venus in your sign, and your persuasive abilities powerful from the 9th-25th.

You are expressing the more adventurous, fun-loving side of your personality in September, although in the last week of the month, you are ready to prove your worth. Professional and public matters demand your attention, and it would be wise to come across as responsible and competent as you can. Work pressures and reputation matters can be challenging at that time, and it’s your job to rise above them. Family really comes through for you around the 23rd-24th. Students are likely to enjoy much success and popularity this month.

GEMINI [21 MAY - 21 JUN]

LIBRA [23 SEP - 23 OCT]

AQUARIUS [20 JAN - 19 FEB]

September is likely to be a more straightforward month for you.

Financial matters clear up, and work matters move forward. An important culmination of a professional matter is likely to occur around the Full Moon on the 12th. Family and domestic life assume greater importance than usual. By mid-month, spending habits become more moderate, and security is more important to you. You come out of your shell on the 23rd, although the last week of September brings serious energy to a romance or creative project. Answers can come now.

Work done in relative solitude is your best bet this month, although the last week of September brings more outgoing energy and a stronger desire to mingle. Friendships become especially lively. Some of you will be making a new, very positive connection with a helpful person. Strains in your close relationships can be part of the picture towards the month’s end. Someone could be questioning your character. Challenges can be overcome, however, and bonds can be strengthened.

With Venus in your sign from the 14th, personal charisma wins the day.

Good energy for work is with you all month. Your hard work pays off, but be sure to pace yourself so that you don’t tire yourself out (and others too!). You’re in a better position to attract money and good news about your finances can arrive around the 12th. Relationships heat up in September, especially after the 18th. Single Aquarians might meet someone special around the 23rd24th and those of you who are already partnered can open up the lines of communication and feel that you’re really moving forward.

CANCER [22 JUN - 22 JUL]

SCORPIO [24 OCT - 21 NOV]

PISCES [20 FEB - 20 MAR]

September is likely to be an especially busy month for you and while you can feel pulled in a number of directions, you manage to stay on top of things. There are fewer problems with transportation and communication than there were in August, and this helps you to get through your days more easily. The 23rd-24th is strong for money earned from your profession, as well as for recognition for your talents. The last three days of the month bring the need to get serious about your family and domestic life.

Your social life animates this month.

The Full Moon on the 12th can raise the temperature in a romance. Your career once again heats up from the 18th forward – you are large and in charge. Recognition for your least acknowledged talents is forthcoming around the 23rd-24th, when you could receive an attractive job offer if you’re looking for work. While your working life continues to keep you on your toes through to the end of the month and into October, you begin to require quality personal down time and solitude.

Relationships are revived in September. A significant other tends to have the upper hand this month, but you’re not keeping score – you’re simply enjoying the improvements. The Full Moon in your sign on the 12th heightens emotions and increases your need for self-expression. You might make an emotional declaration around this time. The 23rd-24th can bring good news about money, health, or work. You’re making the right connections at this time. You’ll need to get serious about a financial or emotional commitment in the last week of September.

154 / ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2011

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Mellior Vasari La Alzambra Local 3-1 Puerto Banús - Marbella - 29660 Spain +34 951 319 728 UK +44 0800 112 3027 info@quaypropertygroup.com

www.quaypropertygroup.com

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LUXURY HOME BUILDER “Formed in 2007 by experienced property developer John May, Quay Property Group is a luxury building contractor for clients in Marbella.”

22/08/2011 14:53:07

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