Female Focus May 2020

April 2020

May 2020

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

What very interesting, frightening and often sad days we are all experiencing. In the past we have all being far too busy and many things were often pushed to one side.

One of these, I would imagine, would be the checking of your insurance documents, of which there are many, and they are all very important, especially if you do not speak fluent Spanish. Therefore, can I suggest that you put aside some time to check your documents very thoroughly.

Ask yourself a question, do I really know what I am insured for? Accepting the verbal word is a waste of time, which you will discover. Also your policy could be a standard Spanish policy, one that the Spanish community are used to. An Expat policy is so very different, especially with the company I work with, Liberty Seguros, which has a special division dedicated entirely to the Expats, and more in line with what you are used to. Can I suggest that you pick up the telephone or go online and request a quotation from my company.

I suspect you could be very pleased, not only with the policy but the cost. These insurance policies are also backed up by my company, with a special Renewals Department, who contact you every year to check any changes to your policy. Also, there is a Claims Administrator, who speaks perfect English and will help you with your claim process, which I know from my own experience, can be quite daunting.

There is a particular bonus on a car insurance policy, of specially chosen garages, where you are treated as a VIP. All of this I know is unique, and why stay with a company who does not offer the best that you can buy?

My staff and I always go the extra mile and look forward to hearing from you.

If you would like more information, or a quotation, please contact one of my offices, visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net or email info@jennifercunningham.net.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Finally we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel, however I do believe there is still a long road ahead of us all.

It was great to get such positive feedback from our April digital version, and you will see we have, once again, combined both QF Focus and Female Focus for May to provide you with yet another bumper issue with extra puzzles and things to do. It feels good to get back to some normality and be able to talk to people other than the ones in our own household (conversation can become slightly repetitive), but obviously still being sensible and abiding by the guidelines given.

I do find the mask wearing rather uncomfortable, especially when the weather is so warm. I have found myself at the supermarket, cutting my weekly shop shorter than expected when my glasses have started steaming up and hot flushes make me feel flustered...I suppose it's one way to get us to limit our time out of the house. If we have to continue wearing the masks throughout the height of the summer, I think I will willingly confine myself to my own home (or solarium) most days to avoid having to wear them. Although I do understand the reasoning and health should always come first, so I will continue to abide by the rules.

It is more important now than ever to show your support to our local shops, businesses, bars and restaurants who have had it particularly difficult over the past couple of months. If they are not yet open, keep checking on them as I'm sure over the next few weeks we will start to see a lot more reopening. For now stay safe and well.

Congratulations to Roel Van Horenbeeck from Pego who won last month's combined competition after spotting the Curry On Cooking logo on page 28. This month if you find the Curry On Cooking logo (not on their advert page, or this page) you are in with a chance of winning a selection of curry kits which will be posted out to your house.

Simply email editor@femalefocusonline.com with your name, address, phone number and the page you found the logo on. See inside for full competition details. Good luck. lle

Miche

QF Focus Magazine covering the Alicante South region and the Female Focus covering the Alicante North region.

Discuss your advertising with your local representative:-

QF Focus Magazine Office Tel: 657 501 055.

Pick up your next issue on 9 June Sales Manager Deadline for advertising Michelle 663 178 228 michelle@femalefocusonline.com & editorial - 22 May Please send editorial to editor@femalefocusonline.com Advert content to advertising@femalefocusonline.com Female Focus Publications are supporters of www.aldeasinfantiles.es

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Practical Amateur Astronomy A Binocular Challenge We're all being good citizens and isolating ourselves. Because of this, and because many of you will be itching for something new to do, I'm giving you a chance to stand outside in your garden, roof or wherever is safe and stare at the night sky with your binoculars.

I'll go through a few things for you to find, mostly easy, but not all.

Let us start with a really easy one, Venus, second planet from the Sun and very bright. Through May it's just above the horizon in the west. Go outside just after sunset and look, you can't miss it. Venus is around 260 million kilometres away, and similar in size to the Earth, but its huge cloud layer reflects the sunshine beautifully, that's why it's so bright. By the end of May, it will have disappeared from view for us, so make the most of this.

Now move your binoculars a little to your left, you'll actually be looking due west. Do you see a bright star? That's Procyon. So what, you might say, Well, Procyon is what's called a main sequence star, a relative of our Sun, and it's only about 11 light years away. To us that's an immense distance, but in astronomy, it's practically on our doorstep. It's also interesting because it's what's called a binary star, two stars in close orbit around each other. Procyon's partner is a white dwarf star, a star that used all its hydrogen fuel up and collapsed in on itself until just a hot remnant remains. If you like to use your imagination, just imagine what it must have looked like from a planet nearby, seeing a star slowly shrink and fade, a few sudden flare ups, then dying.

On May 25th there will be a new moon, I'll come to that in a moment, first we'll have a look at a famous pair of stars. If you go outside on May 25th, 26th and 27th, and look near the new moon, you'll see two brightish stars nearby. These are Castor and Pollux, the twins of the Gemini constellation. These two look close together in our sky, but that's an illusion, they're actually a long way apart. Polux, is around 50 light years away, and is actually much brighter than the Sun, It's classed as having an 'em' luminosity of 153 Sol. That's a technical term, it doesn't mean that it's 153 times brighter though. For a better explanation, you'll have to join our group.

Lastly this month, the Moon. The best times to look at it are from the 25th of May to 1st of June. After these dates, it rises in the early hours of the morning. An exception is to go out on the 9th of June after 1am, ie before you go to bed on the 8th. The Moon will be nearly full and both Saturn (on the left) and Jupiter (on the right) will be right on top of it, A great sight to see.

That's all until next month.

¡ To

Oates Charljaes Astronomy Group Vega Ba

find out more about astronomy, come to one of our monthly meetings email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Firstly I must say that our thoughts go to all those affected by the coronavirus in whatever way and our sincere thanks go to the emergency and key workers.

As I write this there are plans being announced for a gradual easing of the restrictions. I know it is great to think that we are now allowed to go out more and do more, but please keep in mind that the restrictions were put there for our own good and the virus has not suddenly vanished. Be thoughtful of where and when you go out, let's not spoil all the good work that has been achieved up to now.

Please support your local businesses as much as possible as it has been especially hard for them. As things are constantly changing I would advise you contact a business for an appointment or to check their opening times before going to visit them.

Congratulations to Roel Van Horenbeeck from Pego who won the combined competition last month, by spotting the logo on page 28. This month if you find the Curry on Cooking logo (not on this page, or the recipe page) you are in with a chance of winning a selection of curry kits which will be posted out to your house. Simply email editor@femalefocusonline.com with your name, address, phone number and the page you found the logo on. See inside for full competition details. Good luck. esley Pick up your next issue on 9 June

L

Deadlines: Editorial & Advertising - 12 noon - 22 May. Female Focus covering from Alicante North and the QF Focus Magazine covering the Alicante South region.

To discuss your advertising needs with your local representative contact:-

GandĂ­a to JĂĄvea Roddy 688 815 405 or 96 575 6833 roddy@femalefocusonline.com

Altea to Finestrat Fran 649 018 410 fran@femalefocusonline.com

Benitachell to Calpe Alan 689 358 232 alan@femalefocusonline.com

Female Focus Publications are available from over 1000 distribution points throughout the Costa Blanca, making us the largest Free English language magazine publishers by far!

Like and Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FemaleFocus/

Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055 editor@femalefocusonline.com advertising@femalefocusonline.com classifieds@femalefocusonline.com www.femalefocusonline.com Female Focus is proud to have been voted the third most popular magazine worldwide in the independent Expat Survey Consumer Awards

Female Focus Publications are supporters of www.aldeasinfantiles.es

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Search For Our Unsung Superwoman Who is your unsung superwoman during this crisis? The European Union of Women Marina Alta is running a competition from Friday May 1 to give a huge shout of appreciation to local women who have gone above and beyond for the community.

These women could be working on the front line in hospitals, care homes or supermarkets.

They could be cooking, cleaning or shopping for family or neighbours who are at high risk. They could be keeping people’s spirits up, phoning to check if anyone needs anything, or taking themselves out of their comfort zone to help others.

Any woman living in the Marina Alta area is eligible for the EUW Marina Alta Unsung Superwoman award. Nominations can be emailed to euwmarinaalta@gmail.com with the reason why they deserve to win. Further details are available on the European Union of Women Marina Alta Facebook page @euwmarinaalta.

“We, at EUW, appreciate, value and thank all the women within our community who are going the extra mile during these extraordinary times,” said Margaret Hales, President of the European Union of Women.

The European Union of Women is a non-governmental organisation of women with a special purpose, bringing together the people of Europe in peace and prosperity through co-operation and friendship.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Why a Spanish Power of Attorney puts you front of the queue when you find your dream property

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nder normal circumstances, appointing a Power of Attorney (POA) is not an essential service needed by a British person buying property in Spain. But these are not normal circumstances and recent events have shown just how valuable a POA can be to all non-resident buyers.

Since the end of January, Brexit and the countdown to the end of the transition period has disrupted the application process for NIEs and residency permits - mainly in areas popular with expats.

To add fuel to the fire, Coronavirus and the subsequent lockdown has slowed things up even further. In most cases property transactions have been put on hold and where the purchase is further advanced, it has become difficult for completion to take place.

A simple way to minimise the effects of unprecedented events like these is to appoint a POA. It is possible to do this, even now, thanks to the ability to organise one direct from the UK. Power of Attorney – what you need to know.

Appointing a POA works well for British buyers who for practical reasons are unable, or unwilling, to travel back and forth to Spain to complete each stage of the purchase process.

Using the POA, the buyer(s) gives legally-approved authority to their independent Spanish lawyer to act on their behalf throughout the property transaction. Typically, this enables lawyers like Sun Lawyers to apply for the NIE, open your Spanish bank account, sign your purchase contract and oversee completion at the notary’s office.

In short, your appointed lawyer carries out all procedures leading up to completion and beyond. Your lawyer will liaise with you at each key step along the way.

As the buyer, all you will need to do post-completion, is travel to Spain at a convenient time and collect the keys to your new home.

Post completion formalities.

Naturally, after completion, there are formalities to complete, and

with the POA being in place, your appointed lawyer can also do this.

Your Lawyer will be able to collect your Title Deeds, liaise with the utility companies, organise changeovers or new connections and set up Direct Debits for all your bills, including council tax. If you wish they can even handle your tax affairs in Spain or, if you are moving over permanently, apply for your residency permit. So you can see what a very useful document a POA can be.

How to set up a Spanish Power of Attorney.

Unless there are unusual circumstances, the POA is a standard legal document. It will outline the primary powers that you are granting your lawyer, i.e. for the purchase of a property, with clauses detailing any specific activities you need to give them.

Crucially, the content will contain safeguards to protect you in the unlikely event of fraudulent activity and ensure that your lawyer is given no more power than is necessary.

Forward planning puts you in prime position for when you find the property you’ve set your heart on, and preparation is key with a property purchase.

Once the current Coronavirus pandemic is over and life gets back to more like normal, we anticipate a rush of new Spanish property purchasers from the UK. This means you are likely to find yourself in competition with other buyers, not just from the UK but all over Europe and beyond. Establishing a POA could certainly give you the edge over less prepared buyers. · See our advert on the opposite page for contact details of your nearest SUN LAWYERS office.

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QUICK

CROSSWORD

By the PA puzzles team Across Down 7. Overseas (6) 1. Waterfall (7) 8. Author (6) 2. Lengthen (7) 10. Miner (7) 3. Quick (5) 11. Sketched (5) 4. Make (7) 12. Small valley (4) 5. Wander (5) 13. Slap (5) 6. Intoxicated (5) 17. Condition (5) 9. Precocious (9) 18. Brink (4) 14. Try (7) 22. Way (5) 15. Contrary (7) 23. Apparel (7) 16. Dare (7) 24. Abrade (6) 19. Refuse (5) 25. Expurgate (6) 20. Protect (5) 21. Niggard (5) See classified pages for answers

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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What a year so far!

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

The first 4 months of this year have been like no other in living memory.

The biggest impact sadly has been on life itself, and it's safe to say it will change our lifestyles for a considerable time moving forward. Our thoughts are with everyone at this time and our thanks go out to the tireless work of the emergency and essential workers keeping the world going.

Understandably life itself is the most important factor, and at the time of writing we are just seeing measures put in place here in Spain to gradually ease the lock-down in a progressive manner, which will help us all and provide some stimulus back to both our local and global economies.

We have received a large number of enquiries and questions from individuals and families concerning their financial position, given the level of volatility in the investment markets.

The year started so well with high expectancy of continued growth in the markets, but sadly this all changed as the magnitude and seriousness of the coronavirus hit home, both to individuals and to the global economy.

We saw a huge sell off within the markets based on fear, which at the time was largely unknown. There is still a lot of uncertainty in the economic market with fears of a possible resurgence in infections, if the relaxation of the lock-downs in place happen too early. Only time will tell in this respect, but we are all hoping Governments take the right course of action, for our wellbeing.

At times like this we think it is vitally important that our clients are kept informed and up to date with what’s happening and how it may impact on their future goals. We have provided regular emails and video calls providing clients with peace of mind during these terrible times.

As a family business every single client matters to us. The fact that we have multiple qualified advisers, all family members operating from a fully regulated business means we can offer a more personable and bespoke service tailored to your individual needs.

If you feel left out in the cold and uninformed, why not contact us for a free no obligation chat to see if we can help, whether that’s regarding a new investment, to review your existing arrangements or just to chat through any questions you may have.

In the meantime take care and stay safe.

· Logic Financial Consultants are fully regulated independent financial advisers, covering the Costa Blanca, Murcia and Canary Islands. We can travel to you, or you can visit our office at Calle Andres Lambert No 24, 1B, Jávea.

Tel: 965 020 444. Email: info@logicfc.com Web: www.logicfinancialconsultants.com

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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I AGREE WITH JACOB REES-MOGG

G

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overnment minister Jacob Rees-Mogg's investment firm, Somerset Capital Management, has been criticised for exploiting the coronavirus pandemic after telling clients it provided a chance to make “super normal returns”.

A representative of his firm, which manages investments in emerging markets, told clients regarding recent events “Market dislocations of this magnitude happen rarely, perhaps once or twice in a generation, and have historically provided excellent entry points for investors. History has shown us that super normal returns can be made during this type of environment.”

Let me be perfectly clear, nobody is undermining the severity of the health issue of the coronavirus, but Rees-Mogg's firm is in the industry of wealth enhancement, and the markets have presented this opportunity.

SEB Spanish Portfolio Bond

Here at Blacktower Wealth Management, we cannot be sure the market is it at the bottom but we can be sure it's NOT at the top so if you feel that you want to try investing, or you have a portfolio such as SEB Spanish Portfolio Bond that you don't think your current financial adviser is managing particularly diligently, then give me a call. Here's a testimonial from someone who transferred his portfolio management to me at Blacktower.

"I wish I'd met him years ago - Dave is refreshingly honest, and I quickly realised he was on my side, unlike my previous Adviser Firm, which is why I called him. I have been delighted with the results of his changes." Paul Butler, Altea

Current returns from one of our fixed rate return funds:

Growth (Sterling) Fund 3.5% p.a.

Growth (Euro) Fund 2.6% p.a.

E L C H E CHILDREN'S CARE HOME: Some of you know that I have been the volunteer accountant for the Elche Children's Care Home since April 2014. There are 20 children staying in the home currently and as one can imagine, fund raising for the benefit of these children has ceased due to lock down. But their needs don't stop, so please be generous if you have a heart and donate online on their website www.ecch.es or email info@ecch.es to donate by bank transfer. Can you spare €10?

Blacktower Financial Wealth Management is an independent advisory firm and is NOT tied to any 3rd Party product providers. We would only recommend an appropriate product for you and your family's circumstances.

David Diggle C.A.T., DipFA of Blacktower Financial Management (International) Limited. Tel: 615 607 278 / 965 058 212.

Email: dave.diggle@blacktowerfm.com.

Website: www.theblacktowergroup.com.

Location: Costa Blanca.

The Blacktower Group (formed Jan 1986 UK) has been offering sound, independent advice for 34 years.

The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity.

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain. See advert below for more information.

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Easy Crossword

Across 2 Of sound mind (4) 5 Whole range (5) 8 Public passenger vehicle (4) 9 Much ___ about Nothing, Shakespeare play (3) 10 Flat round object 11 Intolerant person 12 Carpenter's tool (5) 14 Alleviate 15 Love songs 18 Sanctuaries 19 Promotional tour 22 Financial distress 25 Consented (6) 29 Adapt, switch (7) 31 Cargo space in a ship (4) 33 Utensil for cooking chips (5) 35 Prickly desert plants (5) 36 In a lazy manner (4) 37 Pen point (3) 38 Sense organs for hearing and equilibrium (4) 39 Small shoot (5) 40 For ___ Eyes Only, Bond film (4)

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Answers to puzzles in the classified pages

Down 1 Dense growth located on the head, for example (4) 2 From that time (5) 3 Deported (6) 4 Man's high tasselled item of footwear (8) 5 Ate greedily (7) 6 Molten rock in the Earth's crust (5) 7 Carries with difficulty (5) 12 Two considered together (4) 13 Make money (4) 16 Singing couple (3) 17 Bowling period in cricket (4) 20 Back part of the foot (4) 26 Unbridgeable disparity (4) 21 Thunderous verbal attack (8) 27 Swinging or sliding barrier (4) 23 In the past (3) 28 Uncomfortably cool (6) 24 Looking for (7) 29 Adult male birds (5)

30 More pleasant (5) 32 Laundering appliance that removes moisture (5) 34 British nobleman (4)

Page 14 During these past Emotional few weeks, we Irritability - Panic attacks have all faced an Anxiety Feeling u n p r e c e d e n t e d overwhelmed - Frustration situation whereby Being forgetful we have found ourselves in Behaviour isolation; some with family, some on their own, some working Feeling isolated - Increased from home and essential workers still carrying on their work alcohol, smoking, caffeine in stressful situations. For many, the unknown and worry of Sleeping too little/too long the financial burden has been huge. All these factors have put Loss of sense of humour - No a lot of people into a ‘state of stress’. motivation

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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STRESS

We often associate stress as being a bad thing. However, it is the body’s natural response to dealing with situations utilising the ‘fight, flight and fright (freeze)’ response. In the old days this was great if you were facing a Sabre toothed tiger, but happily we don’t face this scenario these days!

Stress is great, for example if we are an athlete, or if there is a situation whereby your body has to suddenly respond to an emergency you are not expecting. The body releases a mix of hormones and chemicals such as adrenaline and cortisol to prepare the body for physical action. This causes the body to send blood to the essential areas and shut down functions in non-essential areas.

This should just be a temporary state for that moment. However, when your system is being constantly overloaded, like we are in modern society, the body can become ‘frozen’ in a state of stress.

Some of the symptoms you could be suffering are:

How to help yourself with Stress • Get a good night's sleep and drink plenty of water throughout the day, staying hydrated is REALLY important • Practice deep breathing exercises. Being aware of your own breath is really good for calming your nervous system down.

Place one hand on your abdomen and one on your chest, breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds and then exhale for 4 seconds, like a big sigh and repeat a several times • Exercise and keep moving, this is essential for our bodies and helps to move fluids around our body. We have all been confined for a long time, but hopefully you have managed to incorporate some form of exercise into your day • Be positive and practise gratitude. We all have a lot to be grateful for and a positive mindset is really good to have. Try and make a note of 5 things that make you feel good, or grateful for, each day.

&

Physical Rapid heartbeat - Muscle tension and pains - Indigestion or stomach problems - Headaches - High blood pressure - Skin complaints

Cognitive Inability to concentrate - Brain fog - Starting many tasks but achieving little - Self doubt

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• Laugh! This is a great way of giving some of your muscles a workout and also releasing a lot of endorphins, which help to reduce stress and pain levels.

How can Osteopathy help Stress • Osteopaths use a range of gentle techniques to reduce tensions in your body. This can involve massage, gentle manipulations, rhythmic movements of joints and cranial sacral techniques.

• The aim is to balance the autonomic nervous system and reduce the fight, flight and fright response and also to work with the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

• Osteopaths are very good at listening. Sometimes having someone to explain why your body is reacting as it is, and how you can help reverse the impact of stress on your body and provide you with a treatment plan, can help you to take control and reduce the levels of stress that you unknowingly put yourself under.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

· Contact your local Osteopath Sharron Barton on 634 364 385 or email me osteosharron@gmail.com.

See my advert on this page for more information.

SUPPORT OUR COMMUNIT Y SPEND LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Absolute Hair & Beauty Salon, situated in Pueblo Bravo, Quesada have now reopened and are proud to introduce new members to their current team.

Sarah (pictured right) is a qualified nail technician and beauty therapist with her own business, Lush Beauty & Skincare in Spain for almost 7 years. Sarah's facial, advanced skincare & aesthetics clinic will be available every Monday at Absolute and she will host her fab brow bar every other Tuesday.

Karen and David (pictured left) previously from Cut N Co have also joined the team. They have many years of experience, successfully working in Spain for 17 years and were both London trained hairdressers with advanced training with Vidal Sassoon and L’Oreal.

Pinks Dress Agency has been operating in Quesada since November 2018 and is now trading within Absolute.

Jill and Samantha (mother and daughter team pictured below) are both self confessed shopaholics and have lots of experience in the retail industry. With fantastic outfits for all occasions you are sure to find some exquisite fashions available.

For all enquiries and to book your appointment call the salon on 96 673 1336 or follow us on Facebook.

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES Contact them for their transition opening times and appointments

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Why you need a Social Media Strategy right now?

As business owners we need to be able to pivot our business accordingly and see how we can get more visibility with less expense.

Here is where Social Media comes in handy. With more people spending time on their laptops and cellphones, we have the best opportunity right now to be in front of our Target Audience and offer them what they are looking for.

Our clients are most likely accessing their social media channel of choice as often as possible. If you have a strong social media strategy, you can be right there when they do this.

If you use your social channels properly, you can build a powerful brand online.

Step 1: Define your Personal Brand by knowing who you are and what you stand for. What sets you apart? What are you passionate about?

Step 2: Review your social channels to make sure they are streamlined. Use the same bio and headshot across all channels so users can easily recognise you at a glance and know what you're about.

Step 3: Keep your audience engaged by posting consistently.

Step 4: Focus on the two platforms that best align with your overall goals (such as trying to attract your ideal client, create professional relationships etc), and, from there, craft your content and strategy accordingly.

Step 5: Build a community of fans. By consistently and continuously engaging with others, asking questions and commenting on what others share and post, you can get on the radar of people who don't know you.

Please contact me, Mila Z, for more information on how I can help you.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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How to stay healthy at home during the coronavirus lock-down

W

ith the ease of lock-down beginning our movements will be less restricted, but this still does not mean we are out of the woods yet.

Waves of coronavirus infections may continue to ebb and flow and without a vaccine, none of us can entirely eliminate our risk of contracting coronavirus, therefore it is sensible to prepare for a possible infection.

It is very important that we come out of lock-down with a boosted immune system, healthy and strong to ensure we are less susceptible to the potentially lingering virus.

Here are some simple steps to boost our immunity.

Sleep Sleep is one of the bedrock foundations upon which health is built. Getting more and better sleep improves your resilience, lowers your adrenal and stress hormones and thus improves your immunity.

If you are finding it difficult to get to sleep because you are lying awake worrying, try to limit your consumption of the news before bed, and avoid late night caffeine. It can also be helpful to reduce your exposure to screens in the evening, ideally banning them completely from the bedroom as the effect of the blue light on our retinas can disrupt our sleep quality.

Diet A good diet is important because if you are malnourished your immune system will not work efficiently.

Try to avoid a high fat diet, and processed foods. Concentrate on consuming whole foods and particularly vegetables to boost immunity, especially those that grow above ground which are less starchy.

When you make freshly-cooked dishes from scratch, you control the ingredients and by using fresh produce you will consume more nutrients than you would get from packaged food.

Exercise Exercise is a key element in keeping your immune system high.

Whilst it is a great de-stresser, the more you exercise, the more blood flow happens in your body and your immune system is spurred into action.

In those periods when we are allowed out from lock-down, focused exercise, such as targeted strength training or short episodes of high-intensity interval training, are very helpful in improving immunity.

As a minimum use the periods to take walks in the fresh air which will give you a change of temperature and some exercise - both of which stimulate the body's defence systems.

Positive Mental Attitude Stress is a major factor in the deterioration of the immune system because a hormone called cortisol is made in your body and this represses some of your immune cells.

Conversely, having a positive attitude, laughing, smiling and joking, produces more energy and brings hope for a brighter future.

So share those funny memes, and try to watch some light-hearted films, and use face-time and zoom with friends and family.

Sun Although the sun sometimes gets a bad reputation for prematurely aging our skin and causing skin cancer, there are actually some big benefits to spending time (safely) in the sun.

Skin reacts to the sun’s ultraviolet-B radiation by creating vitamin D, which the immune system needs a good amount of, in order to function properly.

In moderation the sun also increases the oxygen content in our blood, does wonders for the complexion and has also been linked to improving certain skin conditions, like acne and eczema.

And catching some rays during the day helps to keep your circadian rhythm on schedule. Sun increases serotonin, which is responsible good mental health and helps towards the good quality of our sleep.

Dr Poole, as well as being an International Master in Cosmetic Surgery, is a Family GP. Please call beforehand for an appointment time. ¡ Clinica El Arenal, Av Arenal 2, Jåvea. Telephone 865 525 304, Mon-Fri 10.30am - 1.30pm. Email: clinicaarenal@gmail.com.

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Ancient Indian Threading

by Bee at Mimis Kru Hair and Beauty.

Threading is still relatively new here in the western world, but has been used for centuries in Eastern countries and Arabia, India, Persia and China. The Arabs call it Khite, the Egyptians call it Fatlah. No one knows exactly where it originated from, but it is said to have come from the Middle East and South Asia.

In threading, a thin cotton or polyester thread is doubled and then twisted. It is then rolled over areas of unwanted hair, plucking the hair at the follicle level so re-growth can take up to 4 weeks, and it also leaves the area feeling smooth.

Threading allows for more defined and precise hair removal that can often be missed by plucking or waxing. It is a perfect technique for removing short fine hairs from the entire face, i.e. the upper lip, chin, sideburns, cheeks and most popular: the eyebrow. It gives eyebrows more definition and shape especially where some eyebrows are sparse!

Threading doesn’t pull or nick the skin like waxing or tweezing can, only the hair is removed, threading does not affect the skin in any way, other than maybe to make it a little red. So this is great for people with sensitive skin especially those who use medication creams, Accuttane and topical retinoid creams.

Is threading painful?

It’s actually not really any different from any other hair removal techniques, but with not as much pulling or tugging at sensitive areas, the reality is that any form of hair removal that pulls the hair up from the root is going to involve some amount of pain. Sorry.

Men can also benefit from threading; eyebrows, facial areas prone to in-grown hairs and shaving bumps as well as neck, shoulders and chest.

Please call the salon for an appointment.

· Mimis Kru, Local 12, Edificio Caribe, Av del Pla 129, Jávea.

Tel 96 579 3584. www.mimiskruhairandbeauty.com Facebook Mimiskru. See advert on the Horoscopes page.

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Y

our body’s hormones control most of the basic bodily functions.

They serve as an internal communication system within the body coordinating everything from digestion, appetite, immune function, moods, and libido. So, when your hormones become unbalanced it affects the well-being of the body.

All hormones are what we call “natural,” but BHRT hormones are identical in their molecular shape, make-up, and structure to hormones made in the human body and are produced from plant oestrogens.

BHRT is often used as people age and hormone levels drop, particularly for women who are in a perimenopause or menopause. It is also prescribed to men and women to improve their daily lifestyles.

Some of the beneficial effects of taking BHRT In addition to aiding with the above symptoms, hormone replacement therapy may also reduce the risk of diabetes, tooth loss, and cataracts.

There are various ways that BHRT can be administered, this can be by pill form, patches, creams and injections depending on the advice of your specialist.

BHRT is not suitable for everyone so contact your Health Provider for a personalised consultation to avoid side effects.

Please do not hesitate to call us so we can book an appointment with our GP or Specialist for further advice.

· Clinica Britannia, Ejércitos Españoles 16, 1st Floor, Calpe.

Tel 965 837 553 or 607 255 755 24hours a day - 365 days a year.

Clinica Britannia asks you to PLEASE STAY SAFE AND WEAR A MASK

Page 21

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PROFHILO: TREATING SKIN LAXITY It's not a filler, it's not Botox.

P

rofhilo is an injectable treatment of hyaluronic acid which improves skin quality.

Not only does it act as a moisturiser when it is injected under the skin, but it also helps your skin naturally produce extra collagen. Since profhilo is not a filler, it will not plump up your face or make you look puffy. Instead, it will enhance your skin's elasticity, tighten it and help reverse common complaints such as fine lines and wrinkles.

In short, profhilo remodels skin laxity and battles crepiness. It is not a replacement for fillers and Botox but can be used as a combination with them or as a stand-alone treatment. Profhilo is working on the skin quality, rather than the muscle movement and volumes.

HOW DOES PROFHILO WORK? Profhilo is a very runny hyaluronic acid which is strategically injected into the upper layers of the skin with a small needle. Because it is "honey like" it dispenses effortlessly into the skin where it has a scaffolding action on the tissues, hydrates and begins its bio remodelling process. This is how profhilo is different from conventional fillers.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE REQUIRED? 2 sessions 30 days apart are necessary. In those 30 days after each session the skin works hard, producing new bouncy collagen and elastin to give your skin a firmer, smoother, plumper complexion.

Full results are seen only after the second session as your skin produces more and more collagen and elastin, however, changes are immediately visible after the first session.

GREAT AREAS TO TREAT: • ARMS • NECK • UNDER EYES • CHEEKS • CHIN

·

For more information please contact ZEN - SMILE - SPA, Calle Jorge Luis Borges 8, Jávea. Telephone 96 579 3810.

WORDWISE

The word may sound familiar, but do you know what it means?

B. Strap around the leg of a hawk C. Narrow pouting stem

LAVOLTA A. An ancient dance B. Extravagant outpouring C. Edible seaweed ANSWER: A

JESS A. Tomfoolery

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

ANSWER: B

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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The importance of your blood oxygen level

Your blood oxygen level is a measure of how much oxygen your red blood cells are carrying.

Maintaining a proper level of oxygen-saturated blood is vital to your health.

Most children and adults do not need to monitor their blood oxygen level. In fact, many doctors will not check it unless you are showing signs of a problem, such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

People with a chronic health condition many need to monitor their blood oxygen level. Such conditions include the likes of asthma, heart disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

However, during the current coronavirus crisis, an increasing number of doctors from around the world have suggested that a reduction of the blood oxygen level is an early warning sign that the symptoms of Covid-19 are worsening.

This decrease of the blood oxygen level often occurs some time before the patients really notice that their breathing is becoming harder, and if oxygen treatment is administered sooner then more patients stand a better chance of survival and, very importantly, they are less likely to need to be intubated on a respirator.

An early warning is better.

A simple device called a pulse oximeter (Pulse Ox) could help identify if you are falling severely ill with coronavirus, the doctors say.

The pulse oximeter clips over the fingertip or ear and takes a reading of the blood oxygen level in the body. This helps to identify how well the heart and lungs are working.

The matchbox-sized device, which can readily be bought online, works by emitting a beat of light through the finger or ear, to a sensor on the other side of the unit. The reading is then displayed on the digital screen. So there are no needles or pain involved in oximetry measurement.

Using a pulse oximeter means patients displaying any coronavirus symptoms such as a dry cough or high temperature can regularly monitor their oxygen levels at home. And should their oxygen level fall dangerously low, this could provide an early warning to seek medical help quickly, before their condition deteriorates.

And such early identification could significantly reduce the amount of patients who need a ventilator, which is a huge win for both the patient and the healthcare system. Thus the purchase of a pulse oximeter could be a very wise preventative measure for anyone with underlying health conditions, or who is in the high risk category.

Membership of the ASOCIACION AMIGOS EUROPEOS DE JAVEA is just â‚Ź55 for a whole year for the whole family. Our ambulances are akin to Mobile Intensive Care Units and can mean the difference between life and death. We cover almost all of Costa Blanca North and will come straight to you wherever you are. To join telephone Laure Bolufer (Registration Manager) 10am to 1pm every weekday. Avenida Juan Carlos 1, No 69, 03730 JĂĄvea.

Tel 96 579 6099 (24hr). Email: amigos_europeos@yahoo.es

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES Contact them for their transition opening times and appointments

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F

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Walk Your Way Well

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

by Niamh O'Sheehan

irstly, let me start by apologising. I missed checking in for last month April issue of Female Focus. Like most of us, I quite literally had my feet swept from under me around the exact time of last month's deadline. A certain little “lock-down” situation meant I went from being a busy working mother of three to a highly strung, deeply concerned, home schooling, remote-working, climbing the walls mother of three overnight. I simply could not figure out how I was going to “Walk Myself Well” out of the situation and drew a complete blank as to how to advise any of the fine FF readers on how to do the same. But, I’m back with pen in hand and I’m rearing to go.

It is with great delight and excitement that we are learning of the restrictions on movement slowly being lifted as we gratefully and finally see the curve of this awful virus being flattened. I congratulate everyone on their fantastic community spirit and commitment to staying home in a bid to ensure that Covid19 loses its grip on the nation and on the world. On this note I’d like to share something significant I discovered during this period of captivity; Walls shouldn’t stop us!

Like many of my fellow ramblers, our reasons for walking are simple. It’s our direct line connection to nature. It’s our free therapy session. It’s our access to endless head-space. I personally don’t really enjoy exercise per se, so I’ve never been a gym member or a lover of fitness classes. So, the thoughts of simply “working out” at home behind my locked doors with a YouTube video or in an online class didn’t appeal to me in the slightest.

But, as the kilos crept on and my muscle tone lost itself under wobbly bits, I started to seriously question what was stopping me from keeping fit? It’s not like the government had taken away the use of my legs!

I had endless imagination and access to exercise regimes online. Even with managing the house and school and work I could STILL find time (believe me - you can ALWAYS find the time if you want to). So, why on earth did I assume that the “cuarantena”, as they so fondly call it here in Spain, meant I could not exercise? And that was the light bulb moment I had been looking for. The only true barrier was my own self-inflicted limitation.

And there I will leave it, as I see you all enthusiastically running to the cupboards to dig out your sadly neglected walking shoes.

There was nothing stopping you from wearing them round the house all day every day at all was there?

They actually would have fit beautifully with your pyjamas! Well, those days are almost over and it's time to get back in shape and more importantly BACK IN FOCUS. This isn’t over by a long shot and we will NEVER forget what we have been through, we will pray and grieve for people who have fallen ill and lost their battle against this virus. And to honour them; we will grasp our lives fully and wholly and, I for one, will once again WALK MY WAY WELL. Join me.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Book Review by Ivor Kindle Title: A short history of nearly everything Author: Bill Bryson Publisher: Black Swan Books I have reviewed this book before along with other Bill Bryson books... however, during these troubling times reading can help us all to pass some of the excess free time we are all experiencing at the moment.

I am now on my fourth attempt to not only read this particular book, but to try and force some of its knowledge into my thick skull.

This is without doubt the most interesting book I have ever read ...it's full of facts and figures ...details and revelations about both us human beings and our planet.

It reveals the science and the physics of our planet and of our very being.

Did you know that our Earth is 4,5050 million years old +or- 70 million years.

While we all have more time to read, this book is the choice to read as it not only needs to be read, it also needs to be mulled over and thought about.

Keep Well...Keep Safe ...Keep reading, Ivor Kindle.

WHO AM I?

BY PA PUZZLES TEAM

1. An actor, I was born in Dublin in 1976. I unsuccessfully auditioned to be in Boyzone, before landing a role in the BBC drama Ballykissangel.

I became a father for the first time in 2003 and have been romantically linked to many women, including the English actress Amelia Warner and Polish actress Alicja Bachleda-Curus, who is the mother of my second son. My films have included Alexander and In Bruges.

2. An author, I was born in London in 1866. I was fond of animals from an early age, and ran a sheep farm during my later years. I illustrated all of my books about animals, which included The Tailor Of Gloucester and The Tale Of Mr. Jeremy Fisher.

3. A singer, I was born in Pennsylvania in 1928. I was a teen idol in the early to mid-1950s and my Number

One hits included Outside Of Heaven and I'm Walking Behind You. I was married to the movie stars Debbie Reynolds and Elizabeth Taylor, before my passing in 2010.

4. A singer and dancer, I was born in Hawaii in 1978. I started my career as part of girl group Eden's Crush who took part in an American reality TV series before leaving to become the lead singer of the highly successful Pussycat Dolls. I also had an on/off relationship with British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton.

5. A painter, I was born in Moscow in 1866. I moved to Germany after finding myself in conflict with official theories about art, and became a Bauhaus teacher in 1922, where I remained for eleven years until its closure by the Nazis. My well-known paintings include The Blue Rider and the Composition series.

Answers 1: Colin Farrell. 2: Beatrix Potter. 3: Eddie Fisher.

4: Nicole Scherzinger. 5: Wassily Kandinsky.

www.femalefocusonline.com

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K&M AIRCON: SUPPORTING

THE COVID19 RECOVERY

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

SELECT Quality, SELECT Choice, SELECT Service

S

elect Villas has been established in Moraira for over 15 years helping hundreds of clients to move forward with selling or purchasing a property.

Like most people, we're so happy to be working towards getting to our "new normal". We've been attending emergencies throughout the lock-down, observing and going beyond all guidelines with safety equipment, distancing and disinfecting the area we work in before and after installations. Now that we're allowed to work more generally, we're offering 10% off all aircon systems.

One thing that has inspired us is the unselfish way medical personnel have looked after us all during COVID-19. We're proud to clap for them every evening. To show our appreciation, we'll give 19€ per installation job to local medical staff and hope in some way it can go to repaying the enormous debt we all owe them! · Find K&M on Carrer Pintor Sorolla 33, in Calpe, or call them on 965 87 48 38. Visit: www.km-aircon.com. See our adverts in the classified section.

We are at present living in a very different Moraira. The current restrictions have meant that we have not been able to meet with our clients personally but this has not stopped our professional team.

On the contrary, we have seen this as an opportunity to expand our services. We have been working harder than ever, behind the scenes, reviewing our website and marketing and by using all our resources and creativity, have continued listing properties and promoting them to potential buyers around the world.

For the benefit of both buyers and vendors, we are now producing 360° video tours free of charge for our exclusive properties. The tour along with our comprehensive floor and site plans, ensures that buyers are able to virtually view a property from the comfort and safety of their own home.

We have also produced informative videos for buyers and vendors in English, Spanish, French and Dutch explaining the whole buying/selling process and how Select Villas can help. Follow us on Facebook and YouTube to see the videos. · For more information, telephone 0034 616 002 993 or email info@select-villas.es. See their adverts on the front page and in the property section.

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HARLAN COBEN: '32 BOOKS

- THAT'S A LOT OF TIME ALONE IN A ROOM'

The bestselling thriller writer talks to Hannah Stephenson (PA) about moving into TV territory, the joy of working in teams and why he has to write.

Even if you're not an avid reader, you will probably have encountered thriller-writer Harlan Coben's work.

Jumping seamlessly from more than 30 bestselling novels to a string of top-notch original dramas, Coben is the mastermind behind recent Netflix series The Stranger and Safe.

Coben, 58 - a genial, witty character with laughter never far from the conversation transfers his own sharp humour into some of the characters in his twisty page-turners, including feisty lawyer Hester Crimstein who brings comic relief to many of his books, including the latest one, The Boy From The Woods.

But he never writes his novels with TV adaptations in mind.

"That's the kiss of death. It's one of the reasons I'm always willing to make big changes when I do the adaptations," he says. "A book should be a book and a TV series should be a TV series. When you mix the two of those up and you think you have to be slavishly devoted to a text, those are usually the worst adaptations."

Jumping from the world of print to TV, screenwriting and producing came at the right time, says Coben, who still lives in New Jersey, where he was born.

"Books will always be my true love, my day job, but I really enjoy the TV stuff. If you have a book and it's a success, it's like you're a golfer or tennis player who's won a big tournament. You celebrate on your own and it's all about you."

"As I get older though, it's been more fun being part of a team," he reflects. "It's like being in a soccer team when you've won the league championship. I may be captain but we celebrate as a team, and I really want my teammates to do well."

"It's been fun to watch the success of other people. I've loved watching people's reactions to Richard Armitage (star of The Stranger) and some of the younger actors who are now getting more recognition and more roles. And I also loved seeing the reaction to Jennifer Saunders playing in a drama."

The Boy From The Woods, his 32nd novel, seems a natural for an adaptation.

It centres on Wilde, a decorated former soldier who as a boy was found living alone in remote woodland in New Jersey, not knowing Century/PA how he'd got there

or where he'd come from.

Now in his 30s, Wilde has heightened survival skills and still prefers to live outdoors alone, but is close to Crimstein, who is still grieving over the death of her son, who was Wilde's friend.

When a child goes missing, the pair join forces to track her down - a journey which involves kidnapping, trademark twists, turns and nail-biting suspense.

"I think this will be the first in a series," Coben muses. "There are more stories for this guy to tell."

He got the idea while hiking through woodland near his home when he spotted a child, aged about six or seven.

"All my books start with a, 'What if?' What if this kid had come out of the woods and had no idea how he got there, that any life before that was kind of feral, and he never knew who his parents were? Now skip ahead 30 years and we still don't know any of that. Then another kid goes missing."

Will Wilde and Crimstein ever appear on the screen?

"I have a five-year deal with Netflix they've optioned control all of my standalones, including the ones I write now. The Boy From The Woods is with Netflix but we haven't really started discussing it yet.

But it's in the same deal as The Stranger."

While The Stranger and Safe were set in Britain, he has also completed two TV series in France, while another Netflix series The Woods has finished filming in Poland. And he remains largely in control.

"The timing was right. I've avoided becoming one of those authors who just let stuff get optioned but didn't really get involved."

"In the case of The Stranger, I had total control. I was involved in outlining every episode, I rewrote every episode, I saw probably 300 audition tapes to pick the roles. I personally wrote to Jennifer Saunders and sent her the scripts, saying, 'I know you don't normally do drama, but boy will we have fun with this!'"

Coben is a sociable guy, so working with a TV team was an attractive prospect.

"The Boy From The Woods is my 32nd book - that's a lot of time alone in a room.

It's nice to get out of the room. In the case of Safe and The Stranger, I met Nicola Shindler, one of your great producers in the UK - Happy Valley, Last Tango In Halifax, Queer As Folk - she's produced all those shows."

"I love her work so much and we got along so great that we decided to form a partnership and made three shows. We also made The Five, which was on Sky." "Also, TV has changed. This is a good era

Claudio Marinesco/PA

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

for TV. It used to be, 'If you want to do a TV show, it's got to be 22 episodes and you have to solve the whole crime in 47 minutes and next week it will be a new crime in a CSI type of show'. That really didn't fit what I was doing."

"I can make a show eight episodes, The Woods (his next project) is six episodes. I have the flexibility to tell the story that I want to tell."

He says he's not away on location as much as you might think, because technology allows him to work from home. But he admits he's easily bored and there's an air of restlessness about him. His four children, aged between 18 and 25, have flown the nest.

"We are empty-nesters," he laments. "It's a big adjustment time here at Casa Coben, as we adjust to not having the kids around.

It feels weird. Two of them are nearby in New York and I try to do fun things when they want to see me. But I don't handle it well. I miss them."

His wife, Anne Armstrong-Coben, a paediatrician and Dean of Admissions for Columbia University's Medical School, is just as busy as her husband. They've been married for more than 30 years.

"I found somebody really great and just hung on for dear life," Coben says wryly.

"She tries to shake me but I hold on tight.

She's usually my first reader. She's my softest critic, which is why she's my first reader."

They may have more spare time without the children, but he finds it difficult to switch off.

"If I go on vacation, I usually get up in the morning and write, because if I'm not writing my life is sometimes out of balance.

"You have to have good health, you have to have good relationships, the marriage, the kids, the friends. If all those things are going well but I'm not writing at all, I'm unhappy and out of balance. It's like a person who likes exercise a lot who stops exercising."

Does it become more difficult to think of new storylines, having 32 novels under his belt?

"I've always tortured myself, I've always felt insecure, I've always felt I'll never have another good idea and that I'll have to get a real job now," Coben admits. "It's never gotten easier. But the fear does fuel me."

The Boy From The Woods by Harlan Coben, published by Century, is now available.

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Female Focus Magazine April 2020

Page 28

our ARIES Now is a great time to learn new things as your concentration levels are really good for a change. Finding a topic that really catches your attention and imagination will help, as you will really enjoy and get stuck into the subject.

TAURUS It will be hard for you to make any decisions this month where money or love are concerned. Don't be rushed into anything, it is better for all concerned if you take time now thinking things through, rather than having a change of heart later.

GEMINI Now is a great time to reconnect with people who you have lost touch with. You are learning better time management, giving you more time to do things you enjoy doing rather than just work, work and more work.

CANCER Recently you have found new hobbies which you are looking forward to taking even further. Look for others who share in your interests and you will be amazed at what you can learn from each other.

LEO Express yourself clearly and you will not be misunderstood. This way everyone will know exactly what it is you need. It is not about being bossy, just clear in your instruction in order to avoid confusion.

VIRGO This month is a great time for exploring new things, seeing things from a different perspective and listening to as many different ideas and points of view as possible. You really are looking for new ideas.

www.femalefocusonline.com

oroscope LIBRA Don't double guess all the time. 'What ifs' will just hold you back for no good reason. Be mindful of what you are saying as others may not be as strong as you think, although if it is a major problem then they will just have to take the criticism and deal with it.

SCORPIO Loosen up a little, don't let things get too serious this month and you may find that you get much more enjoyment out of life. I know things have been difficult recently but it really is not all doom and gloom.

SAGITTARIUS Stop doing the same thing and hoping for a different outcome. Right now a fresh start is really what you need. This may mean a new outlook on life, a new path in life or just a new wardrobe.

CAPRICORN Recently life for you has been very structured, but you are finding yourself becoming much more flexible. Stop worrying so much over the small things, let them pass, it is just the bigger things you need to stay in control of.

AQUARIUS Having always been there for your group of friends, helping out when you could, you will get through what has been a hard time with their support for a change.

PISCES Your mind has been on so many things recently that your judgement could be clouded by these events. Wait until you can really see things clearly before making any major decisions. Take a back seat and let others take some of the strain.

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

By PA puzzles team

Across 1. Youngsters seen in the stalls (5-4) 8. Yes, it's used for observing, we hear (3) 9. Clerics are shrewd men on the board (11) 11. A place for the shooting contest, we hear suitably adjust the score (7) 12. Comes across hunting parties (5) 13. Sleuth disturbed by frenzied activity (6) 15. Quick description of ill-tempered puppy (6) 17. No longer part of the statute-book, to be precise (5) 18. She gets involved with nice Asiatic (7) 20. They try to settle when war breaks out (11) 22. Stick used when potting (3) 23. Yet loving to adapt the attribute of a centenarian (9)

(ans

the c wers in Down las 2. See 21 Down pagesified s) 3. Nearly dressing the bird (5) 4. Used to be thrown out (6) 5. Prove the fellow is an exhibitionist (7) 6. One who teaches a bit - it's outstanding work (11) 7. Colonnade - fashion a kind of pier on top (9) 10. Dishonest packman? (4-7) 11. In which lithe acts are involved (9) 14. Drop lease before autumn (3,4) 16. This is viewed as a draught excluder (6) 19. It's stupid when one gets Anne upset (5) 21 & 2Dn. Sailor returns to the girl more willingly (6)

Spot the 13 differences (answers in the classified pages)

S E L Z Z U P I S S O IMP

2 The children were all at Sunday school when Bob looked in. "What a crowd," he exclaimed. "There must be about a hundred kids here."

3 Jean looked at the boy's sheet of paper.

"Another of your crazy multiplications," she said. "Of course I can't do it in my head, but what's the trick?"

"Only a few," the boy replied. "1p, 2p, 7p and 10p. Some of each value, but I got the smallest possible number for an average of 5p per stamp."

Joan smiled. "Not that many, but they'll split up into their classes in a moment," she told him. "There would be exactly a hundred if there were three times as many boys or twice as many girls."

"An easy one," Adam replied. "To multiply that by eighteen, you just increase each figure by one and then write a four in front.

It's the smallest number that works exactly that way."

LES TEAM

BY THE PA PUZZ

1 Did you get stamps?"

Betty asked, when Jim came in.

That couldn't mean many, but how much exactly had he bought of each denomination?

How many were there?

Simple! But what was Adam's number?

ANSWERS: (1) Two stamps of each denomination. (2) 40 girls, 20 boys. (3) Adam's number was 24183.

About 700 grapes go into one bottle of wine.

That's approximately 1.25 kilos, if you're wondering how much "fruit" you get when you uncork your favourite red.

Not every Model T was black.

For the first few years of production, Ford's famous car came in gray, green, blue, and red. It was only after 1914 that customers could order "any colour so long as it is black," as the dark paint dried faster than other hues.

Female Focus Magazine April 2020

As Seen On TV

Page 30

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Ginger and Pineapple Upside Cake

There’s nothing like a retro pudding, this month we’ve gone for an old school classic; one of our favourite sweet treats, tangy, sticky, moist pineapple upside cake. Usually made with tinned pineapples we’ve used fresh which aren’t as sweet as the canned version, but both work equally well. We’ve also gone and added ginger which gives this cake a spicy sweet twist!

Ingredients

the base and sides of a 7 inch sandwich cake tin.

Arrange the pineapple rings on the butter mixture at the bottom of the tin

For the topping • 50g soft brown sugar • 50g butter, softened • 5 fresh pineapple rings For the cake • 2 fresh pineapple rings chunks • 100g butter, softened • 100g golden or caster sugar • 2 eggs, medium, beaten • 1½tsp ground ginger (optional) • 100g self-raising flour • 1tsp baking powder Prep 15 mins - Cooking time 35-40 mins Method Preheat oven to gas mark 4, 180ºC. To make the topping; beat the sugar and butter until creamy. Spread the mixture evenly over

In a large bowl cream the butter and sugar together until smooth, add the eggs and whip into the mixture. Add the pineapple chunks and ground ginger and mix well. Gently fold in the baking powder and flour into a smooth batter Spoon the mixture into the cake tin over the pineapple, spread evenly and level out. Lift the tin and gently tap on the work surface.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden. Leave to stand for 5 minutes, place a plate on the tin, gently invert the cake onto the plate and serve!

LOOKING FOR LOCKDOWN GIFT with a difference or to learn a new skill?

The Spice Sisters are offering virtual cook along lessons. For more information please email us keepcalm@curryoncooking.com.

· Recipe supplied by The Spices Sisters from Curry On

Cooking. Don’t forget to like them on Facebook 'Curry On Cooking'. You can purchase their currylicious kits from www.curryoncooking.com.

Page 31 Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020 between the wealth of Nation States, and it is this wealth that will mean what level of treatment and protection individual countries can give to their populations.

Like the majority of people who are reading this, both myself and my wife are currently riding out the pandemic in our adopted home of Spain. Do I think that Spain have handled the pandemic well? From my perspective I would say that what has kept the pandemic from my door so to speak, has been the leadership of the Spanish authorities, in that they took difficult decisions regarding locking down the country in a quick and timely manner. When elcome to my monthly column “A view leadership was required, Spain's politicians stood up and took from the top”. Hopefully you will find my decisions that hopefully will put a light at the end of our (yours rambling readable (maybe even enjoyable). and mine) collective tunnels. Indeed, as I type news is coming in You may agree or you may disagree with my of a plan to enable Spain to come out of lock-down... unlocking views, I care not. These are my views long held and forged the country in a structured plan that would or could see the starting over a life time of work, travel and experience. Now that’s of a 'New Normality' by the end of June this year.

Recession will be a key factor as Spain seeks to release its people over let’s have a look at what is really winding me up. back into its already creaking economy...I really cannot begin to wonder at the level of unemployment that will ravage the country The Tragedy Of Coronavirus.

Hello everyone to this May 2020 "View from the Top"...Before as it struggles to build its way back from the darkness into the I write another word may I wish everyone and their families light. How will all our lives be in the near future. and extended social groupings all the very best during these I expect like me you have been shopping under social distancing unprecedented times...That said let's have a look at what I think rules, although it is difficult to be socially distant on the end of about the state of play in our battle against this most terrible of a shopping trolley, whilst struggling to get to the beer and wine section of your local supermarket, in an effort to neutralise life pandemics.

In my last sentence I think I have captured the very nature of the behind closed doors whilst the lock-down continues. problem, in that this virus is hitting the whole World (pandemic) Over the coming months I expect Spain to start to normalise life, rather than selectively targeting individual Nation states. The although to be honest I do not fully understand what normal life spread around the world has seemingly taken some countries by will look like in the near future. I will leave you now Dear Readers surprise and I am sure when the World eventually comes out of as my dogs need walking ...and I have some shopping to do ..house this crisis, questions will and must be asked as to the preparedness to hoover and clean ...life goes on. of individual countries. The questions are many and varied. Were I will certainly be more forthright in my pieces over the coming countries health systems up to the mark? Were plans already in months in respect of how Governments' have responded to this virus ...however maybe now is not the time. place to combat such deadly infections?

Keep well and keep safe.

Of course, what will be apparent will be the marked difference www.femalefocusonline.com

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If you are able, please give to your local charities they are suffering now as all their fund raising events have been cancelled and charity shops have been closed.

It is that time of the year again. Fleas and ticks are not just an annoyance for you and your pet, they can lead to serious health problems. Make sure your pet is protected against them.

Archie is a lovely boy with such a kind nature.

He is full of energy and loves to play. Archie is good with children and loves hugs and fuss. He is 2 years old and has been neutered, vaccinated and chipped. If you would like to learn more about this special boy, please ring Akira Shelter on 657 689 567, or email akirashelter@aol.com.

Refuge centres may be subject to restrictions so please call before visiting.

Uwe was found next to a supermarket, looking for food. He was completely house trained and walks very well on the lead. He does not feel at home at the dog pound, in spite of that he is very social and loving. For more information call 618 754 635. www.apasa.eu.

Maisie is around 5/6 months old. Maisie is chipped and vaccinated, good with other dogs and will be small / medium size when fully grown.

Call / Whatsapp: 645 469 253. To view more animals for adoption go to www.petsinspain.com.

Email: info@petsinspain.com.

Bert black Labrador, 5 years old. Sadly his owner passed away. He is an energetic, large breed and very loyal. He needs a large garden & plenty of exercise.Tel: 600 845 420 Email: k9clubinfo@gmail.com. www.k9club.es.

You’re invited to come and meet the Easy Horse Care Centre rescued horses, ponies and donkeys during our open day, held on the first Sunday of each month from 1pm to 4pm. Entry is free and children are welcome. On the day, we offer a free guided tour of our stables and fields at 2pm sharp – make sure you pop along at this time to be able to meet our horses. Call 652 021 980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net. For more information visit our website http://www.easyhorsecare.net.

Calling all clubs and charities - let us know about your forthcoming events and animals for adoption. See page 4 & 6 for contact details.

Meet Our Horses! Join us on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings at APAC Rescue Horses to see the horses and join in the fun with drinks and tapas to help support and raise awareness. Everyone Welcome. For more information email apacprotectora@gmail.com, visit www.apac-cv.com or Facebook: Apac Rescue Horses.

Hannah is a gorgeous mix labrador/ podenco around 2 years old. She is good with other dogs and a wonderful nature. All the volunteers love her. For more information, or if you would like to volunteer please call 685 524 049. Benidorm Animal Shelter (Protectora de Animales y Plantas Benidorm) Quark is a lovely boy who is urgently looking for a new home. Shelter open every Sunday 10am - 12pm or call Luisa 648 100 629.

Denia Cat Protection League – Aldea Felina http://www.aldeafelina.es

Bess is a sweet little dog. She is sometimes a little nervous of people, but with TLC this is changing.

Bess is looking for a home of her own, can you love her? For more info call 650 304 746 or email p.e.p.a.spain@gmail.com Charly is male, 2.5 years and currently in foster.

House trained and living with 2 other dogs, obedient, castrated and healthy. Charly likes walks in the countryside, cuddling on the sofa and listening to music. A good all round dog. Contact apropego@gmail.com or call 654 616 043.

Tanamera is a small animal rescue, located in Valencia, Spain, privately run by volunteers who rescue, rehome and rehabilitate ex hunting dogs. For more information email: stichtingtanamera@gmail.com or find them on Facebook (Tanamera Rescue)

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SUDOKU Here are four Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try.

It is not a maths game at all, there is no calculating involved - it is a pure logic game.

Fill in the grid so that every r o w, e v e r y c o l u m n a n d e v e r y 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.

Answers to puzzles in the classified pages Covering the Costa Blanca South

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Enjoy your garden

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While I am writing this, we are emerging from the Coronavirus lock-down, and I can only hope that all of you are happy and well.

Being cooped up at home has somewhere to practice his has certainly highlighted putting at home as well.

Article supplied by Lee Charlesworth the positive side of having I’m not just saying this a garden which allows you because Charlesworth to sit outside and relax, do Gardens and Artificialthings that you normally Grass-Spain can do wouldn’t or can’t do and things like golf grass as allow you to be out in the well as other sports areas, fresh air. it’s the fact that this little It has also illuminated space has made life a lot several things to me. nicer. I have installed Unfortunately, I am the artificial grass at so many prime example of the houses and it’s always mechanic with a broken good. The customers and car, or the builder with an their pets always love it unfinished house or as in my case the landscaper / garden designer and I am used to the feel who only has a quarter finished garden. Don’t get me wrong, by and the results, but this the time we are allowed to start to function normally my garden is the first time I have still won’t be finished, but at least it will be a few steps closer, installed some properly thanks to having some spare time at home to actually get on with at my own home and it. without wanting to brag A big reason I have so little time is that my son competes too much, I love it. nationally in golf competitions and consequently the vast majority It hasn’t just created an area for my son to practice, it has also of my weekends often have a 0500 start, and no time off. Naturally created an area where we are all going, sitting and relaxing. The anyone who knows about golf, and especially at a high level, dogs are having a roll around, and it’s amazing how such a small understands you can’t just stop and pick it up another day, you piece of usable friendly green can be enjoyed. have to do it daily. Luckily, we have a fairly long garden where I had some customers who had a natural grass lawn by a palm he can hit some balls, but I have been meaning to install a putting tree. But they never sat on it, they never played on it or area for him for some time. At long last I did. So, he now also anything, it was just grass.

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Mundo Solutions: Aircon Better Solutions for Better Living

We removed the grass, raised the height so it was flush with the pathway and then covered it in artificial grass. When we next saw them, they had bought new garden furniture (which was on the grass) and said how much they loved it and how they now used the space, something they had never done before. So before you think about installing natural grass with all of its costs, consider something that not only looks great all year with no maintenance, but think about its tactility, the fact you can walk on it bare foot and not do a strange dance, it’s the fact you know it’s clean and friendly. It is so much more than just a piece of artificial grass.

If you have realised there are better ways of using your garden and want to think about some changes to not just your garden but your life, then contact Charlesworth Gardens and its sister company Artificial-Grass-Spain and start to discover how much more you can get from your garden space.

· For more information please give us a call on 696 283 704, email info@charlesworthgardens.com or visit www.charlesworthgardens.com, www.artificial-grass-spain.com and www.floresgardencentre.com.

We're glad that Lockdown is easing, and the warm weather is at last with us. We hope everyone is safe and healthy and looking forward to better times ahead.

With the warmer weather comes the need to keep cool and the need for air-conditioning. At Mundo Solutions we've made all the necessary preparations to continue to provide our excellent service whilst respecting the needs to be sanitary and safe with gloves, masks, hand-gel and insisting on keeping our distance from people.

So if your aircon needs servicing, repairing, or if you need a whole new system, please contact Mark on 619 516 705 (Costa Blanca North). Stay safe and together we'll get through this!

SPEND LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL

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FIVE FACTS ABOUT LICENCES IN SPAIN Spanish building licences are quite famously difficult and tortuous to obtain and in most cases a bit of a nightmare.

Here are 5 common tricky situations that can only be solved using a Retrospective Licence.

1- Garages or building work carried out attached to the boundaries (even permanent carports etc) cannot obtain a licence (generally speaking). The minimum distance from an open window to the neighbour's boundary is 2 metres in Spain. Generally detached villas in Alicante area must stay away from the boundary by a minimum 3 metres, although this may vary and can even be much more.

2- Glazed in terraces or closed in porches are built without a proper licence in 95% of cases. Spanish properties traditionally tend to have many open (patios) or semi-open spaces (porches) to create breezes or shaded areas. These semi-open spaces are very frequently closed in by using glazing or brick work. The Spanish laws regard these enclosures as extensions of the built floor area of the property and therefore they are subject to a 'Major Licence' for their construction. Licences to close these spaces in are generally not issued.

3- Most pools are not declared in the title deeds. Many of them don't have a licence either. The small percentage that have a licence generally don't have the architect’s certificate signing off the building of the pool. If your are selling your property you can use a Certificate of Antiquity or Retrospective Licence for pools, to give peace of mind to the purchasers and also use it to upgrade the title deeds to include the pool at the time of selling.

4- Any exterior cupboard, semi open kitchen or other covered building work must have a proper 'Major Licence' when it has an interior height over 1,50 metres.

5- Under-builds with living accommodation are nearly never made with licences and like the previous examples can be added to the title deeds using a Retrospective Licence.

In all these scenarios the document needed is a Certificate of Antiquity, also known as a Retrospective Licence, to guard against

possible sanctions and it is highly recommended to avoid putting off potential buyers due to the existence of illegal extensions in or on the property. It will also be needed on completion of the sale in order to update the property’s description in Title Deeds & Land Registry.

The only condition in order to obtain a Retrospective Licence is that the building work done is 4 years old, before the 20th August of 2014.

If you are purchasing a property in this area remember to always give your solicitor an exact description of the property highlighting the building works above and ask them to guarantee what you are buying is exactly what is registered at the land registry.

Only proper Spanish architects are competent to issue retrospective licences so if your solicitors are studying your case, ask them to contact Martinez de la Casa Architects to provide the Antiquity Certificate and we will make the whole process easier, faster and cheaper with our fixed published prices and guaranteed deadlines.

Cost of a Certificate of Antiquity / Retrospective Licence for pools is 190€ +IVA and extensions or complete properties 270€ +IVA. Discounts available for existing Martinez de la Casa clients or if you require your Energy Performance Certificate (121€ IVA Inc) or Habitation Licence (from 118€ Registration tax not included), done at the same time.

Martinez de la Casa Architects can guarantee all services within stated deadlines and a fixed price. With over 5,000 clients in South East Spain, we are considered one of the most prominent and respectable architecture practices, providing all types of certificates and licences, amongst other services.

For all enquiries or to arrange an appointment please call 665 810 411 or visit www.martinezdelacasa.com to see an impressive list of over 150 client's testimonials.

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Y

orkshire Linen in Jávea and Altea visit national and international trade fairs to keep up-to-date with the latest soft furnishing fashions on a yearly basis.

This year, emphasis is definitely about how a room makes you feel. But sometimes it’s difficult for those of us who don’t know where to start when we want to do something to our home (or rental), whether it be a total re-vamp or just adding some extras to make a change.

So let’s step back and start from the beginning. Stylists focus on look and feel. Designers focus on function.

WHERE TO START

HOW DO YOU WANT YOUR ROOM(S) TO FEEL? We can break it down into two manageable parts: what ‘look’ are you aiming for and sticking to a colour pallet. Here are some (brief) ideas inspired by Emily Henderson to see which style you resonate the most with.

If you’re not sure, type it into Google Images to see what common themes you choose and pay attention to why.

1. Contemporary – minimal, now 2. Industrial – urban, rough finishes 3. Traditional – inviting, matching details 4. Seventies – casual, full of colour 5. Zen – balanced, relaxing 6. Rustic – farmhouse inspired, cozy 7. Modern Glam – feminine, colours and patterns 8. Eighties – loud, geometric 9. Minimalism – sleek, functional 10. Bohemian – creative, fun 11. Mid-century Modern – straight lines, minimal decorative details 12. Scandinavian – clean lines, warm accents REFLECT IN THE COLOURS YOU LIKE. Three to five colours are generally enough for a room and then your accent colours would be enhanced with cushions, curtains, bed linen and even towels. Here is a basic guide: Warmer colours (red, orange, yellow and pink) tend to be more energising than cooler colours.

Balance cooler colours (blue, greens, greys and white) with warmer and vice versa.

Both styling and design are about storytelling so experiment and show your personality! Please remember to bring (when you are able) the measurements of your bed(s) and curtains for example, so that our experienced staff can guide you through the store to find just what you are looking for. www.yorkshirelinencostablanca.com Centro Com. Mongtó, Avda del Pla 68, Jávea, T 966 462 275 Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00, Saturday 10.00 – 18.00 Partida Planet 177, Altea, T 965 841 399 Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00, Saturday 10.00 – 14.00.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

WORD SPIRAL

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Starting from 1, fill in the grid in a clockwise direction with four-letter words. The last letter of each word becomes the first letter of the next word. If you have correctly filled in the grid there should be a seven-letter key word reading across from 8.

&

WORDSPIRAL 1 - CLUES

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BY PA PZZLES TEAM

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1. Clean with water 2. Perceive sound 3. Perform again 4. Gemstone 5. Be fond of 6. British nobleman 7. Floor covering 8. Expel 9. Marquee, say 10. Hire car 11. Object of worship 12. Den 13. Manages 14. Cast off 15. Dingy 16. Second Greek letter Key word clue: Canadian province

WORDSPIRAL 2 - CLUES

1. Army vehicle 2. Door handle 3. Dauntless, daring 4. Slow-witted person 5.

Golf pegs 6. Mix with a spoon 7. Paper quantity 8. Postal system 9. Country road 10. Water jug 11. Stink 12. Slay 13. Praise, extol 14. Rush 15. Musical instrument 16. Bygone Key word clue: Condiment

Answers to puzzles in the classified pages

Spot the odd one out A

B

“To care, comfort and counsel people affected by cancer.”

C

D

Costa Blanca North: 634 311 690 Gran Alacant: 96 684 1276 La Marina: 699 894 183 Torrevieja: 602 648 486 www.mabscancerfoundation.com

HELP of Marina Alta

Medical Equipment and Information office: 96 642 7044 Denia Hospital Interpreters and Info desk: 96 642 9346 HELP Coordinators: Benitachell 664 573 360 Calpe 616 237 135 Orba 639 176 812 Jávea 634 388 446 Denia 609 336 473 Teulada/ Moraira 634 318 819 Parkinsons Support 634 301 677 HELP President 686 320 435.

E

F

SAMARITANS IN SPAIN

FREE PHONE 900 525 100

pat@samaritansinspain.com If you are a victim of domestic violence call 016 - there is a way out.

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Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

HELP Thanks you sincerely

These past six weeks have been a whirlwind of emotions and a new enforced way of life for everyone. For HELP of Marina Alta it has been a strange time too but we have been busy. So have many people have donated to our fund raiser which began at 2000€ and ended with the FB and direct payments to our website at nearly 6000€.

It has enabled us to buy 15 Tablets for Marina Salud Hospital and La Pedrera to enable the patients to be able to see and talk to their loved ones. Not only have the patients in the COVID-19 ward and ICU been able to see their family on the small screen, but also the patients who are in both hospitals with many illnesses and who have lived through this lock-down without visitors of family and friends, and of course many older people who don't use Smart phones.

We purchased a tumble dryer for the Covid-19 ward so the medical staff could wash and dry their clothes on the ward as opposed to the clothing going into the general laundry from the rest of the hospital. Deliveries of food gifts for the medical staff to enjoy through their long hours and for patients to enjoy too. Another delivery is going in shortly for the Emergency Area team who are the first responders at the hospital when a patient comes in. A delivery arrived of our first protection shield visors for medical centres and carers who need more protection and to protect the patient too. We will be buying lots more of these and lots of Nitrile gloves that are hard to come by at the moment along with PP2 face masks. We want to be able to help people with higher risk situations to protect themselves as much as possible.

We were offered fabric to make face masks with, so some of our HELP Volunteers stepped up to the mark and offered to sew the masks. 450 hand sewn masks have been handed in for distribution amongst the vulnerable and medical staff. The masks were boiled first before drying and pressing.

Finally there are other people out there going through a tough time so we decided to offer help to the Franciscan Brothers Mens' Shelter in Gandia with some food purchases, personal hygiene products and most importantly cleaning materials for the home. Through all this we have needed to purchase another 2 hospital beds to send to people's homes. We have 40 beds out at the moment along with wheelchairs, walkers and shower chairs that have gone out.

We hope to continue helping as much as possible and that people continue to help us with their donations, especially since our charity shops have been closed. We have a TEAMING event running on our FB at the moment where people can sign up to pay 1€ per month to the charity at HELP of DAMA and we have a Donate button on our web page www.helpofdenia.com. Thank you everyone for the generosity and support you give us.

Mrs Candida Wright, President HELP of Marina Alta

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Jávea U3A’s lockdown success story!

D

espite the coronavirus lock-down curtailing U3A Jávea activities, many of its 1,200 members have been finding alternative ways of keeping their brains active.

One project which proved particularly popular was a Short Story competition, the brainchild of founder member Mike Frost and his wife Katrina.

There was a good response to the idea with a number of people sending in their entries.

Finally, a short-list of six was selected. Mike, Katrina together with newly-elected President Mick Cox and his wife Val read all six and a winner was chosen.

The winning story, a Jávea-based thriller entitled Neighbours, was written by Tony Lawton (pictured).

His prize was a meal for two – but Tony generously donated the prize money to U3A Jávea’s charity of the year, Make A Smile.

The runners-up were: Peter Davies (“What Friends Are For”), George Thomas (“PoW”), Jenny Falloon (“Master of the Task Force”), Tony Henderson (“The Typhoon”) and Peter Langley (“The Call of the Grim Reaper”).

For details of U3A activities and how to join, see the website www.u3ajavea.com

Note from Benny Davis: Covid-19. In the theatre we have a tradition, whenever the theatre is empty, we are always sure to leave one light on, typically, in the centre of the stage. This light is known as a ghost light. There are many stories about its origin, but its meaning is unmistakable: although the theatre is empty, we will return. Today, these ghost lights are a sign. We maybe down, but our passion, our creativity, our drive is still centre stage and we will eventually be switching off those ghost lights. WE WILL BE BACK. Thanks to Jenny Dexter of Stagestruck and Candy Wright of Careline for reminding me of this bit of theatrical folklore.

To catch up on what the groups are doing in the meantime visit www.femalefocusonline.com Hopefully next month we will bring you news of their next events.

If you would like to be part of the Stage Diary please email editor@femalefocusonline.com.

Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

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U3A Vall Del Pop – Easter Bonnets

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n normal circumstances the U3A Vall del Pop would have held its Easter Bonnet competition at the April General Assembly. But of course everything was in lockdown.

In order to give us all a smile at what we are missing Christine, the leader of our flower arrangement group, sent photographs of a floral bonnet she had made for her granddaughter in better times. Her granddaughter won on the day – whether for the size, or the ability to keep it on her head I don’t know. But Christine had certainly produced a super floral bonnet.

We hope you enjoy this sight of spring.

The U3A is all about enjoyment and learning, and this is particularly evident in the U3A Vall del Pop, whose members usually hold their General Assembly on the first Thursday of each month at the Centre Polivalent in Murla, and have a diverse range of more than thirty groups for the interest of the members.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Teulada Moraira Lions Continue Fund Raising

Would you like to donate to Teulada Moraira Lions?

We now have a means of taking donations online https://www.gofundme.com/f/teulada-moraira-lions. This can also be accessed via our website or FB page.

All charity shops had to close due to the restrictions in response to the pandemic and TM Lions rely on the income from The Den – our charity shop in Moraira – as a regular source of income. We also raise money by holding very popular concerts in La Senieta – but these too have had to be cancelled until at least September.

We continue to work with local charities and have donated money for food vouchers for those in need and also to the Men’s Refuge in Gandia who were struggling for funds. If anyone in our area is in need – we aim to help – by working with existing charities or direct to individuals, but we can only do this as long as we have funds to give.

We work closely with local Social Services departments who are doing a fantastic job and also the many other charities working in our area. The current situation brings new challenges and we hope many of our loyal supporters in the community will be able to support this creative response to enable us to continue to serve our community.

The funds we receive will all go to support those in need through For further information on U3A the donations TM Lions give to a number of organisations Vall del Pop check our website andindividuals. www.u3avalldelpop.com.

For more information, visit our website www.tmlions.com or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TMLIONS25/. To donate, please go to - https://www.gofundme.com/f/teulada-moraira-lions THE SALVATION ARMY English Speaking Church of Denia Worship Service. Sunday 10.30am Followed by a time of Fellowship Everyone is welcome. Come as you are!

For more information: Dieter Zimmerer +34 698609658 or Barbara Zimmerer +34 652319810 Email dieterzimmerer@hotmail.com www.centrosaron.com

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

Contact them for their transition opening times reservations & appointments

Please call for opening info.

www.femalefocusonline.com Page 42 The film is shot in real-time in several exquisitely staged single takes, which have been seamlessly stitched together by editor Lee Smith.

It's a tour-de-force of technical daring, which repeatedly dazzles and dumbfounds, juxtaposing heart-breaking brutality and selfsacrifice with moments of dreamy, poetic introspection. are pushed to the physical limit as we plunge headfirst 1917 (Cert 15, 119 mins, Actors through the emotional wringer with them, experiencing similar Entertainment One, War/Thriller/ dizzying gut-punches as tragedy stalks their odyssey.

Action, available on Amazon Prime Thomas Newman's orchestral score possesses the urgency of a Video/BT TV Store/iTunes/Sky Store/ ticking pocket watch, underscoring devastating performances TalkTalk TV Store and other download from Chapman and MacKay. and streaming services) Fleeting cameos from the likes of Andrew Scott, Mark Strong and Starring: George MacKay, DeanRichard Madden don't distract from an intimate tale of valour and Charles Chapman, Colin Firth, Mark brotherhood under fire that sears into the memory.

Strong, Andrew Scott, Benedict Rating: ***** Cumberbatch, Richard Madden.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

Damon Smith reviews the latest download, streaming and DVD releases

PA Photo/Universal Pictures/ DreamWorks Pictures/ Storyteller Distribution Co., LLC/Francois Duhamel.

Lance Corporal Tom Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) and Lance Corporal William Schofield (George MacKay) begin April 6 1917 in peaceful slumber against a tree as thunder rumbles in the distance.

The men are roused to receive orders from General Erinmore (Colin Firth), who must prevent Colonel Mackenzie (Benedict Cumberbatch) from leading The 2nd Devons into a trap set by the Germans.

"We would lose two battalions - 1,600 men - your brother among them," Erinmore sombrely informs Blake.

The Germans have severed all telephone lines so the only way to warn The 2nd Devons is to dispatch Blake and Schofield on foot into enemy territory.

They must reach Mackenzie before dawn, when the fateful order will be given to attack the line.

1917 is a breathlessly choreographed and nail-bitingly tense thriller, inspired by stories of The Great War told by director Sam Mendes's grandfather, who served as a lance corporal.

Hollywood (8 episodes, streaming and available to download exclusively on Netflix, Drama/Romance) In 2018, Ryan Murphy - cocreator of Glee, American Horror Story, Pose and 9-1-1 PA Photo/Netflix/Saeed Adyani.

- signed a five-year deal with Netflix for a reported 300 million US dollars to create original content exclusively for the streaming channel.

Lavish eight-part drama Hollywood is the first series to emerge in its entirety from that deal and is a valentine to post-Second World War Tinseltown as seen through the eyes of a group of aspiring actors and filmmakers.

It's a fictionalised account of Hollywood's Golden Age with reallife figures such as actors Rock Hudson (Jake Picking) and Vivien Leigh (Katie McGuinness) woven into the sprawling narrative.

The focus is the trials and tribulations of friends Raymond Ainsley

Page 43 www.femalefocusonline.com Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020 (Darren Criss), Jack Castello (David Corenswet) and Archie Stewart lays herself physically bare more convincingly than she Coleman (Jeremy Pope). is able to expose her character's psychological fragility, while In common with other shows from the Murphy stable, themes of O'Connell's conflicted FBI agent embodies the frustration we feel race, gender and sexuality are pivotal to the characters' fortunes. about words left unsaid.

They are both short-changed by screenwriters Joe Shrapnel Seberg (Cert 15, and Anna Waterhouse, who distil each cruel turn of events in 102 mins, Radical Chic, expository dialogue like when Seberg's lover summarises: "There's Drama/Thriller/Romance, a war against black people in America. You just got caught in the available on Amazon crossfire."

Prime Video/BT TV Rating: *** Store/ PA Photo/Universal Pictures Store/iTunes/Sky TalkTalk TV Store and Brassic - Season 2 other download and streaming services) (6 episodes, streaming Starring: Kristen Stewart, Jack O'Connell, Anthony Mackie, Zazie exclusively on NOW Beetz, Vince Vaughn, Yvan Attal, Gabriel Sky. TV, Comedy/Drama/ Romance) In May 1968, actress Jean Seberg (Kristen Stewart) leaves Paris, her screenwriter husband Romain Gary (Yvan Attal) and young son Diego (Gabriel Sky) to travel to Los Angeles to audition for the role of Elizabeth in Paint Your Wagon.

The flight is interrupted by outspoken black civil right activist Hakim Jamal (Anthony Mackie), who argues that Malcolm X's widow should be given a seat in first class.

His impassioned rhetoric impresses Jean, who raises a fist in solidarity with the Black Panthers on the airport runway as photographers swarm.

Soon after, Jean becomes romantically entangled with Hakim, who has a wife (Zazie Beetz), which brings her to the attention of FBI agent Jack Solomon (Jack O'Connell) and partner Carl Kowalski (Vince Vaughn).

Seberg dramatises the FBI's persecution of the eponymous icon of the French New Wave with a disjointed narrative counterbalanced by eye-catching period details.

Director Benedict Andrews fails to hit the mother lode in his opaque drama, which speculates about Seberg's emotional turmoil in the most simplistic terms.

The six-part comedy PA Photo/Sky UK Limited. drama set in the fictional Lancashire town of Hawley, created by Danny Brocklehurst and lead actor Joe Gilgun, returns with a bang to Sky One and streams exclusively on NOW TV. In the cliffhanger final episode of the first series, bipolar bad boy Vinnie (Gilgun) faked his own death to dodge a grim fate at the hands of vicious gangster Terence McCann (Ramon Tikaram).

Meanwhile, a heartbroken Dylan (Damien Molony) learnt that Tyler, the young son of his girlfriend Erin (Michelle Keegan), had actually been fathered by Vinnie.

These next instalments are set shortly after the bombshell revelations and explore the repercussions for Vinnie, Dylan and their buddies Ash (Aaron Heffernan), Cardy (Tom Hanson) and Tommo (Ryan Sampson).

Erin continues to take a central role and in the second series, she is the victim of a harrowing assault and debates whether she should report the crime.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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Puzzle Solutions Easy Crossword Answer to Spot the odd one out = D

Very easy

Medium

Easy

Hard

QUICK CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS See over page for more solutions Across: 7 Abroad; 8 Writer; 10 Collier; 11 Drawn; 12 Dene; 13 Smack; 17 State; 18 Edge; 22 Route; 23 Raiment; 24 Scrape; 25 Censor.

Computers

Autos And Boats

Down: 1 Cascade; 2 Prolong; 3 Rapid; 4 Produce; 5 Stray; 6 Drunk; 9 Premature; 14 Attempt; 15 Adverse; 16 Venture; 19 Dross; 20 Guard; 21 Miser.

All adverts must be sent with your Name and NIE or Passport Nº (not published).

ADVERTS SHOULD BE sent with correct spacing and spelling, the first three words (only) in capitals. Email addresses will not be published on the website or in the magazine unless requested or supplied as part of the main text.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTS. Sell your unwanted items for FREE! Free adverts cannot be faxed, phoned or posted they must be emailed to classifieds@femalefocusonline.com. Photos can be sent with your free advert, both will be published online but text only in print. Classifieds that are supplied incorrectly, all in capitals or with missing information may well be deleted.

‘Misc sales’ are for example one-off sales of second hand items to the value of 500€ or less. Maximum twenty words per advert/ item & maximum five adverts per person*, (email & web addresses count as three words). Property rental or any type of service, business opportunities, wanted, etc are not free and will be charged at the commercial advert rate.

Free Property adverts: Property sale adverts should also be emailed to classifieds@femalefocusonline.com by the property owner (up to 40 words).

These adverts will be published free for a 3 month period and can include Property Agent contact details (and photo to be included online only).

Commercial adverts: Minimum advert length ten words. 35 cents per word plus 21% IVA per month. Payment can be made by credit card or transfer. *Free adverts will be published in print on a space permitting basis. If you want to ensure your advert appears, normal commercial rates should be applied.

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www.femalefocusonline.com Health & Beauty

Services

P S Y C H O T H E R A P I S T CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT Psychotherapist for the confidential treatment of anxiety and depression. Plus couples t h e r a p y. P h o n e Ta n y a o n 634 35 48 92 to arrange an appointment. Visit www.feelgoodcs.com FREE CONSULTATION - BOOK NOW, Does the weather ruin your make-up. Permanent Eyebrows & Eyeliner are the perfect solution.

Elements Beauty Spa In Denia. w w w. e l e m e n t s b e a u t y s p a . e s elementsbeautyspa@gmail.com Call: 966 424 647.

JENNY'S CLEANING SERVICES. Reliable, honest and legal.

H o m e , b u s i n e s s , t e n a n c y, changeovers and oven cleans.

English and Spanish spoken Covering Javea, Denia and surrounding areas.

Call now 633 624 232 www.jennyscleaningservices.com

Tuition QUALIFY AS A TEFL TEACHER With the prestigious Trinity CertTESOL qualification and join a profession with worldwide job opportunities.

Our course is accredited by Trinity College, London and is run at our centre in Gandia on a part-time basis. Attendance is on Fridays & Saturday mornings over a 10 week period in the Spring & Autumn.

No previous teaching experience necessary but your suitability for this demanding course is assessed through a written task and interview.

Trainee places limited to 10. Also open to non-native speakers with C1/ C2 level of English. Please phone or email for further information.

Email: trinitygandia@gmail.com Tel: 96 286 7281 (Charlotte) www.appformacion.com S PA N I S H L E S S O N S O N L I N E Spanish lessons given online. Native level. Also translations in Spanish or German. 17,00€ per hour. Contact yasminloewer@hotmail.com for more information.

THE INTERPRETER, for all your English/Spanish interpreting & translations. Based close to Denia Hospital & surrounding medical centres. Emergency 24 hour call out for Denia Hospital. CALL 686 320 435 or email candidawright@gmail.com

Entertainment LADY JAZZ performing at the Costa Blanca! Perfect for your Lounge Area, Private Parties, Weddings, Fine Dining and Cocktail Bar!!

High quality vocals & chillout tunes. Telephone. 677 233 879 FACEBOOK:LadyJazzAnita or visit www.lady-jazz.com

Wanted I BUY RECORDS LPs, EPs, SINGLES. 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s years.

Good prices paid. Tel. 962 851 809 - 622 750 117.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

GREASE KING COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC CLEANING Full or part kitchen cleans on a one-off or regular basis. Prompt and reliable service throughout all of Costa Blanca North. Cleaning of: Extractors / Filter System / Canopies / Grease Ducts / Deep Kitchen clean / Domestic Oven / Patio and Exterior / Floor Polishing.

Text or Whatspp for your free quote.

634 308 714 or visit:- www.greasekingspain.com HARRIS FURNISHINGS - British furniture store offering a fabulous range of quality furniture including sofas, chairs, corner sofas, sofa beds, recliners, rise-recliners, beds, coffee tables etc. Famous brand names including Parker Knoll.

Pedreguer Ind. Estate. 96 646 9371 sales@harrisfurnishings.com

I N S TA N T T E L E P H O N E INTERPRETATION Service 24h www.myfriendinspain.com No sign up - INSTANT LIVE translation of your conversation: Spanish to English, French or German. 807499846 Call for IMMEDIATE human help! Only 1,57€ per minute from a Spanish mobile or 1,21€ from a landline.

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FULLY COMP CAR INSURANCE from 279€. For all your insurance needs: house, home, business, marine, car, health. Call Insurance Altea 96 584 0753 BUILDING & PLUMBING SERVICES. No job to big or small, from a re-grout to a new build. Experienced and all work guaranteed. Call Nicholas 696 949 220.

I Q G C G L A S S C U R TA I N S .

Enclose your terrace and naya without spoiling the view. Call Neil 965 973 307.

Q U A L I T Y B L I N D S S PA I N www.qualityblindsinspain.com is a family run business, supplying and fitting made to measure blinds on the costa. Tel: 96 57 01 984 Mobile: 65 83 38 123.

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020 Services Cont.

PLEASE REMEMBER NOT ALL SERVICES ARE 100% AVAILABLE AT TIME OF PRINT - SOME WILL BE ON EMERGENCIES ONLY OR

BY APPOINTMENT. GLAZE N SAVE convert your single glazed windows and doors to double glazed units without changing the frames. Very cost effective and a clean process. This is not secondary glazing. For more information call Gary on 662 455 960 or 96 671 2832 email gary@glazensave.es. Web: www.glazensave.es SPANISH INSURANCE: for all your insurance needs in English.

Home, health, travel, motor, funeral, community, business. Tel: 96 673 0694. www.spanish-insurance.net Offices in San Javier and Quesada.

BUILDING WORK All types of small or large building work undertaken including bathroom and kitchen refits, patios & terraces, painting, pool repairs, extensions and underbuilds, plumbing and electrics.

Call 96 671 2832 or 662 455 960 for a free no obligation quote or email s_sconstruction@yahoo.co.uk (Costa Blanca South area).

MAN AND VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon valley & surrounding areas. 96 648 0757 (9.30-1.30) or 636 100 873.

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NEED A SURVEY? Call Advantage Building Services if you are buying a property, or have structural problems with a property you already own. Subsidence cases investigated, insurance claims mediated & processed. 653 733 066 or email mrmpaddon@hotmail.com or find further information at www.surveyorscostablanca.com EXCAVATION, GROUNDWORK & CONSTRUCTION Call AD Lawton for all your plant hire needs. Specialist in drainage, groundworks and septic tank systems. 648 052 911 or visit www.adlawtonconstrucciones.com TRANSLATOR AND INTERPRETER English/Spanish. All legal, medical and business matters. Covering the Costa Blanca. Contact: 658 957 404 or ejbtranslations@gmail.com WATER FILTER SYSTEMS Whole House & Undersink Water Filter Systems. Reduce Your Plastic Waste & Have Clean Filtered Water From All Taps In Your Home While Also Protecting Appliances From Limescale Buildup. Tel: 681 315 659.

Web: www.aqualyze.es.

S I M P LY D O O R S F a m i l y r u n business our products range from external Doors, internal doors, sliding wardrobe doors, upvc windows and conservatories tel 96 671 8738 or 671 260 204. www.simplydoors.es

REMEMBER businesses have suffered, please try to shop and use your LOCAL businesses.

WORD SPIRAL 1 SOLUTIONS 1. Wash 2. Hear 3. Redo 4. Opal 5. Like 6. Earl 7. Lino 8. Oust 9.

Tent 10. Taxi 11. Idol 12. Lair 13. Runs 14. Shed 15. Drab 16. Beta.

Key word solution: ONTARIO WORD SPIRAL 2 SOLUTIONS 1. Tank 2. Knob 3. Bold 4. Dolt 5. Tees 6. Stir 7. Ream 8. Mail 9.

Lane 10. Ewer 11. Reek 12. Kill 13. Laud 14. Dash 15. Harp 16.

Past. Key word solution: MUSTARD

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COYS RENT A CAR is an independent Car Hire company operating from Alicante airport, Torrevieja and the surrounding areas.

To get a quote, look at our website: www.coysrent-a-car.com AWNINGS, BLINDS, MOSQUITO nets, Commercial & Garage doors, Shower screens & doors.

PERSITOLD provide solutions for sun protection and comfort. Showroom in Gata de Gorgos. Many examples at www.persitold.es 96 575 6281 / 669 859 572 or info@persitold.es C O M P L E T E B AT H R O O M REFORMS Whole project managed by in-house team. 24 years’ experience. Also specialist in shower and bath screens. Many satisfied customers. Call SHOWERMAN. 96 579 2285 / 639 292 081 or email info@showermanspain.com UPHOLSTERY SERVICE Tired or broken furniture? From small repairs to complete recovers for home, garden, car or boat. Indoor & outdoor cushion covers. Pergola and parasol covers. Leather and fabric cleaning.

Pedreguer Industrial Estate.

96 646 9371 or email: sofamedico@harrisfurnishings.com GLAZING & AWNING SPECIALISTS All kinds of glazing systems, roofing solutions and awnings, windows, arched windows, conservatories, doors and interior glass doors.

Call 96 645 7878 or email info@amasvista.com

Misc Sales

shop and use your LOCAL businesses.

Personal PSYCHOTHERAPIST CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT Psychotherapist for the confidential treatment of anxiety and depression. Plus couples therapy.

Phone Tanya on 634 35 48 92 to arrange an appointment.

ARE YOU SUFFERING through another person drinking? Help is available Al-Anon meets every Thursday in Benidorm at 5pm. The meeting is in Calle Jardines not far from the Railway Station. Our contact number is 634 758 539.

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

Contact them for their transition opening times reservations & appointments CRYPTIC CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS (page 29) Across: 1 Choir-boys; 8 Aye; 9 Archbishops; 11 Arrange; 12 Meets; 13 Hustle; 15 Snappy; 17 Exact; 18 Chinese; 20 Peacemakers; 22 Cue; 23 Longevity.

Down: 2 Her; 3 Robin; 4 Ousted; 5 Showman; 6 Masterpiece; 7 Peristyle; 10 Card-sharper; 11 Athletics; 14 Let fall; 16 Screen; 19 Inane; 21 Rat.

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR OVERSEAS MONEY TRANSFERS Call Sherry Fraser-Currie 96 626 5072 or email:- sherry.f@currenciesdirect.com

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INVESTMENT PROPERTY Extended Town house La Marina (San Fulgencio). 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen /living /dining room. BBQ, 3 terraces. Close to amenities – supermarket, cafes, doctors. Close to Beach, swimming pool and airport (20 minutes). Sitting tenant available – minimum 5 years. 70,000€. Tel. 966 796 236.

JESUS POBRE APARTMENT. Private sale of lovely spacious apartment of 70 m2, ground floor, 1 bed, 1 fully bath, open plan kitchen, living - dining area with log burner. Roof terrace with sea- and panoramic views. SOLD with some high-quality white goods. 125.000€. Call us for information 966 461 784.

SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? List with Casitas Iberica in Jávea and we will sell your house. Our exclusive listings benefit from professional internal and external photos, plus a free Virtual Tour. No Obligation Valuations. Tel: 96 579 4408 / 686 453 801. www.casitasiberica.com

Have You Booked Your Space of The New Professionals Yet? See Page 4 or 6 for your local representative

Female & QF Focus Magazine May 2020

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