Norwegian Special CBN 16 – 22 May 2024 Issue 2028

SPECIAL THE

Norway May 17th HAPPY CONSTITUTION DAY NORWEGIAN

ON May 17, in the vibrant streets of Spain, a unique fusion of cultures emerges as Norwegians living abroad celebrate Norway’s Constitution Day, known as ‘Syttende Mai’.

This day marks the signing of Norway’s constitution in 1814 and is a symbol of national pride and unity for Norwegians worldwide. In Spain, expatriates and locals alike come together to honour Norway’s rich heritage and traditions. Festivities typically

include lively parades adorned with the Norwegian flag, traditional folk music, and the vibrant display of bunads, Norway’s colourful national costumes. Families join together for joyful gatherings, indulging in traditional Norwegian cuisine such as cured salmon, meatballs, and lefse, while toasting with aquavit or elderflower Champagne.

The celebration extends beyond Norwegian expatriates, drawing in curious Spaniards eager

to experience the cultural exchange. It becomes a day of mutual appreciation, where Norwegians share their customs and values while embracing the warmth and hospitality of their Spanish hosts. Through the celebration of May 17, the spirit of Norway transcends borders, fostering friendship and understanding between nations, and reminding everyone of the beauty found in diversity and unity.

CARLOS SORENSEN DIGON, a Spanish-Norwegian physiotherapist and osteopath, and founder of Clinica1, was born in Benidorm and raised in Oslo. Carlos studied in Madrid and Valencia before returning to the Costa Blanca to establish his first practice. Since 2006, Clinica1 has specialised in physiotherapy and osteopathy, expanding to offer podiatry/chiropody, nutrition, and personal training services. The team consists of three physiotherapists, two osteopaths, a podiatrist, a nutritionist, and a personal trainer, all fluent in Norwegian, Danish, English, and Spanish. Clinica1 provides a comprehensive range of treatments in the aforementioned specialties, addressing issues such as pain relief, mobility restrictions, balance-related problems, migraines, pre and post-operative physiotherapy such as hip and knee replacements, post-Covid syndrome and many more.

Now based in the centre of Albir, although the first clinic was started

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nearly 20 years ago in Alfaz del Pi, Clinica1 has assisted thousands with rehabilitation, pain, and injuries. The clinic has also been linked to the Norwegian national healthcare system (Helfo) since 2009 and therefore has a vast and wide experience with the Norwegian and Scandinavian community. This means that Scandinavian patients can reclaim the costs of their treatments through that system and that they help them with the paperwork. Clinica1 has patients from various backgrounds, including English, Spanish, French, Dutch, and Russian and also accept clients with private insurance where applicable. Please call for more information or to schedule your appointment.

Pasaje Haendel, local 8 and 9, Edificio Olson, 03581 El Albir. 966 860 294 or 606 518 158 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10.00-16.00 Sat 10.00-13.00

Website: www.clinica1.es

A gift from Norway

Jessica Sweeting WHEN Norway was occupied by the Nazis, the Royal Family split up with Crown Princess Märtha and her three children fleeing to neutral Sweden.

King Haakon and Crown Prince Olav made their way to the UK and spent the war years there, figureheads for the Norwegian Resistance, even though the Nazis made the Norwegian Parliament depose the king.

When the war ended, the Royal Family were welcomed back to Norway and in 1947, in recognition of the support that Britain had given and as a sign of permanent friendship King Haakon decreed that each year, Norway would send a giant Christmas tree to London.

Every November a Norwegian Spruce, measuring around 20 metres which had been growing for 50 to 60 years is cut down at a special

ceremony in Nordmarka outside of Oslo which is attended by the British Ambassador to Norway, the Mayor of Oslo, and the Lord Mayor of Westminster.

It is then shipped to the UK and erected in Trafalgar Square, covered with decorations and 500 lights and is a major attraction to those living in or visiting London when it is officially inaugurated on the first Thursday of December.

At the base of the tree which remains in place until January 6, is a plaque which states “This tree is given by the city of Oslo as a token of Norwegian gratitude to the people of London for their assistance during the years 1940-45.”

Trelawney Bresic

Celebrating Norway May 17th

MAY 17 is a day of significance for Norwegians worldwide. This cherished celebration marks the signing of Norway’s constitution in 1814.

One of the most iconic traditions is the wearing of the bunad, a Norwegian folk costume worn by men and women.

Each garment features intricate details that reflect the wearer’s regional heritage. It is often teamed with silver accessories and buckled shoes. The costumes are often passed from generation to generation and become cherished family heirlooms.

Another prevalent tradition is the May 17 breakfast, which includes Champagne or sparkling wine with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon.

Peter Qvam, a school headmaster, is thought to have come up with the idea of holding a children’s parade as part of the celebrations in 1869.

Qvam was a close friend of the author Bjornstjerne Bjornson. Norway’s Constitution Day not only symbolises unity, but also resilience, in remembrance of the nation’s journey towards sovereignty.

Whilst the celebrations have evolved over the years, they remain a key part of the country’s cultural identity.

In 1906, King Haakon and Queen Maud introduced

the custom of appearing on the Palace balcony to greet the children’s parade.

This custom has been maintained ever since, except for 1910, when the Royal Family attended the funeral of King Edward VII, and during the Second World War II years.

Today, the Royal Family gathers to greet the children’s parade from the palace balcony each year. Her Royal Highness Princess Ingrid Alexandra is the fifth generation to uphold this cherished tradition.

GRATULERER MED DAG EN!

Photo:

MAY 17 in Alfas

Anna Akopyan

FOR more than five decades, the streets of Alfas del Pi have been celebrating Norway’s Constitution Day, which brings the nation and visitors together on May 17.

This year’s programme begins at 10.15am with an open-air church service in the Plaza Mayor, followed by a parade at 11am from the Hotel Moli to the Casa de Cultura.

At 11.30am, a group of majorettes will join the parade, with speeches by the mayor of Alfas del Pi, Vicente Arques Cortes, the chairman of the May 17 committee, Bjarte Buen, and the council leader of the secondary school Den Norske Skole Costa Blanca, Nagel

Severinsesn, highlighting the significance of the Norwegian nation in the municipality.

Traditional Norwegian dances and songs will enliven the streets of Alfas performed by the Norske Skole students. From 12pm, ice cream, sausages, cakes and refreshment will be available on the sports field behind Casa Cultural. A raffle with a draw will begin at 1.30pm and games for children will entertain kids and adults until 2pm at the municipal sports centre.

More than 1,000 native Norwegians as well as visitors and residents from all over the world are expected to attend this colourful, celebratory cultural event.

Back & neck problems

Headache & migraine

• Dizziness

• Joint problems

• Muscle pain

• Sprains and Strains

• Nerve pain

• Posture correction

• Pre/post-natal issues

• Stiffness and tension

• Sports injuries

• Improve performance • Rehabilitation

Focusing on the root cause

PHYSIOPLUS is a clinic where we focus on finding the root cause of problems and use manual therapy and functional training to fix it. We are one of three clinics in Spain where therapists are trained in Active Release Techniques (ART) which is a method designed to alleviate pain and restore function in individuals suffering from various musculoskeletal conditions.

ART is based on the principle of identifying and treating adhesions or scar tissue that have formed in or in between soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves due to overuse (this includes static working positions), trauma or repetitive strain injuries.

As ART therapists we have gone through intensive post graduate training. Treatment involves the therapist locating very specifically where the problem is, applying correct level of compression and tension and combining this with

movement to stretch the affected area. We often see rapid results, even to conditions people have suffered with for a long time. We deal with both acute and chronic conditions and help improve performance in athletes.

We focus on the cause rather than just treating symptoms. Relieving tension, restoring soft tissue flexibility and health as well as improving joint mobility are all important factors in order to alleviate pain, restore balance and enhance the body´s natural ability to heal itself.

We have fantastic facilities including our own gym where our personal trainer can help you achieve long term results. It is easy to find us and we are lucky to have plenty of parking next to our clinic in the centre of Albir.

We have just added another two treatment rooms so hopefully we will soon be able to offer other types of treatments.

Credit: Alfas del Pi Council, Facebook

COSTA BLANCA BOLIG, a reputable Norwegian-owned real estate agency with over 14 years of experience in the real estate industry, is opening a new office in La Nucia, a charming town located along the beautiful Costa Blanca coast.

With the success of their existing office in Ciudad Quesada, Costa Blanca Bolig has established a solid foothold in the Costa Blanca region and has built a reputation for delivering top-notch real estate services to both local clients and international buyers. The opening of the new office in La Nucia underscores the company’s commitment to meeting demand and serving a growing market.

La Nucia, with its idyllic location between the mountains and the sea, attracts a diverse audien-

ADVERTING FEATURE

Costa Blanca Bolig is expanding its presence with a new brokerage office in La Nucia.

ce of homebuyers seeking a unique blend of nature, culture, and lifestyle. The new office will serve as a central resource for those seeking properties in the area, offering a wide range of properties, from luxury villas to charming apartments, to cater to various needs and preferences.

With a dedicated team of real estate experts who have extensive knowledge of the La Nucia market and surrounding areas, Costa Blanca Bolig’s new office will provide tailored services such as guidance through the purchasing process and after-sales support to ensure a seamless and secure real estate transaction for their clients.

As an integral part of the local community in La Nucia, Costa Blanca Bolig looks forward to contributing to the area’s growth and development while continuing to deliver outstanding real estate services that meet customer expectations. With the

new brokerage office, they are setting the stage for an exciting phase of growth and success in the Costa Blanca real estate market.

The team at Costa Blanca Bolig looks forward to welcoming all customers! The planned opening is at the end of June 2024. Follow us on social media for updates on the office opening.

You can find the new office at Avinguda Serra D Aitana 1a, 03530 La Nucia. costablancabolig

Reuma

‘ENJOY a vacation without limitations’, is Reuma-Sol’s slogan, and the company stands by it, offering high quality Norwegian treatment in Alfas del Pi.

The centre has 44 apartments, eight of which are designed for people with physical disabilities, and offers a treatment house with a rheumatology department, a heated indoor and outdoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, physiotherapy and even hairdressing and beauty services, including massages, manicures and facial treatments.

beatable,” stated a comment on TripAdvisor. Located in the tranquil area, Reuma-Sol offers daily activities and excursions in the region, adjusted to your needs, introducing you to the local culture and nature.

Norwegian in Villajoyosa

The room of every guest includes a balcony with stunning views of the coast. Reuma-Sol’s 24-hour reception and wake-up service will ensure that you feel at ease throughout your stay.

The centre also offers daily meals, rich in flavour and nutrients. “It lacks nothing. The price quality is un -

Reuma-Sol belongs to the NRF (Norwegian Rheumatism Association), dedicated to assisting people with musculoskeletal health conditions, with approximately 30,000 members in the organisation.

The Reuma-Sol Wellness Centre is located at Calle Helecho 3, 03570, Alfas del Pi.

INVITING all residents of Villajoyosa and beyond to spend May 17 in the cherished celebration of the Norwegian Constitution Day. The celebratory event in Villajoyosa will begin at 11am with a Church Service in the Norwegian Church to honour the nation’s devotion to faith and traditions.

From 12pm a procession from the church to the Hacienda del Sol will be open to all visitors, and at 12.15pm hot dogs, paella, ice cream and drinks will be on offer outside the Hacienda del Sol restaurant. From 1.30pm until 2.30pm, the mayor of Villajoyosa, An-

dres Verde Reos, and the president of the Norwegian-Spanish Chamber of Commerce will give speeches on the role of Norwegian culture in Spain and beyond.

The celebrations will continue with traditional music and entertaining activities for all ages and nationalities, with a focus on Norwegian culture. With the extensive programme, the municipality continues to support its Norwegian population and commemorate the country’s independence and unity, as well as allowing visitors to embark on a journey through Norwegian heritage.

Anna Akopyan

Credit: Reuma Sol

Credit: Ivar Husevag Doskeland, Flickr

ADVANCED CHIROPRACTIC in Albir was established in 2004 by Aleksander Bjargo, who holds the title Doctor of Chiropractic from the USA.

More than 10,000 patients have been treated at the clinic since then, and it continues to serve the community in Costa Blanca and beyond. The clinic’s chiropractors, Aleksander and Sindre, are from Norway, where chiropractic is part of the national healthcare service.

In Spain, despite two different chiropractic studies, in renowned universities in Barcelona and Madrid, chiropractic is still largely unregu-

We believe in quality care, as opposed to quantity care!

lated. Therefore it is recommended to do your diligence when seeking a chiropractor, as uneducated manipulations of the spine can be harmful.

What can you expect at Advanced Chiropractic?

We focus on correcting the misalignment in the spine, and its effects on the nervous system which is the controlling system of the body.

A misaligned segment in the spine causes a local inflammatory process that affects the nerve signals going through that area and consequently lead to dysfunction

and symptoms. Therefore it is of vital importance that the overall structural alignment of the spine is in optimal condition.

The chiropractors use state of the art evidence based methods when addressing the underlying structural cause of your health issues.

We utilise in-depth radiographic analysis to determine care plans that are as appropriate and effective as possible.

Along with guided exercises for the supportive musculature for the spine we strive to obtain long term results.

Calle Pau Casals 7 Edificio Palatino 2 03581 Albir, Alicante 966 865 432 643 229 377 info@bjargo.com chiropractorinspain.com

MAKING YOUR TRAVEL DREAMS A REALITY

MARIANNE TOURS, a renowned travel agency based in Costa Blanca, first opened its doors in 2006. With almost 20 years in the market, this company has earned a reputation for providing exceptional travel experiences to its customers. Let’s delve into the history of Marianne Tours and discover what makes them stand out in the competitive travel industry, it has established itself as one of the leading transport companies in the Valencia region.

Marianne Tours started as a small family-owned business with a passion for travel. The company’s founders, Marianne and her husband, had a vision to offer unique and unforgettable experiences to travellers visiting the beautiful region of Costa Blanca. With their dedication and hard work, Marianne Tours quickly gained popularity among tourists looking for personalised and high-quality travel services,specialising in transport and custom made travels.

What sets Marianne Tours apart from other travel agencies is their personalised approach to travel planning. The team at Marianne Tours goes above and beyond to tailor each itinerary to meet the unique needs and preferences of their customers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural adventure, or a culinary experience, or just a simple transport to/ from airport or locally in Costa Blanca, Marianne Tours has something for everyone.

Shuttle bus, private taxi transport with carts/minivan to big buses, adapted transport and transport with special child safety (isofix, backward seats etc) - we can provide any transport for you, your friends and family, groups.

As Marianne Tours celebrates almost 20 years in the market, they continue to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of the travel industry. With a focus on sustainability and responsible tourism, Marianne Tours is committed to promoting eco-friendly practices and supporting local communities. The company’s dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction ensures that they will remain a top choice for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences in Costa Blanca and beyond.

In conclusion, Marianne Tours has established itself as a leading travel agency and transport in Costa Blanca, thanks to its commitment to quality, personalised service, and customer satisfaction. With almost 20 years in the market, Marianne Tours continues to set the standard for excellence in the travel and transport industry. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a group adventure, Marianne Tours has the expertise and experience to make your travel dreams a reality.

Office : 0034 965 887 462 (Monday to Saturday 10.00-15.30)

mail@mariannetours.com