Society Living Magazine Issue 001 by Bespoke Media

ISSUE 1 – MAY 2009

ISSUE 1 MAY 2009

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LIFE ON THE COAST

THE COAST’S ULTIMATE SOCIETY AND LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

SOCIETY Living Sweet tastes with

FRENCH FLAIR

DIET SECRETS NORDIC VERSUS MEDITERRANEAN

CLASSIC CRUISING WITH MODERN POISE

dreamy pure and fresh

www.societylivingmagazine.com

white LIFESTYLE GLAMOUR CELEBRITIES STYLE LEISURE GASTRONOMY

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EDITORIAL LINES MAY 2009

Contents 10

GLAMOUR DIGEST Chic style and stunning fashion trends

CITY LIGHTS Postcard from London

BIG SCREEN Behind the scenes in the world of movies

Positive times ahead

MUSIC NOTES Rock snippets from around the globe

PET POWER Competition: cute, cuddly and cheeky

SOCIETY Costa glamour… mixing business with pleasure

KRISTINA SZEKELY’S DIARY Queen of Marbella social scene

SNAPSHOTS Your view… special moments and occasions

ON THE ROAD Classic poise… with state-of-the-art design

FASHION FLAIR Elegantly chic…in pure white

CELEBRITY SHAPE-UP Valuable tips from trainer to the stars Nicki Waterman

LATEST TRENDS Tips, trends and new sensations in makeup and skincare

TASTES OF SPAIN The magnificent month of May

CHEF’S SELECTION In the kitchen with a celebrity maestro

FINE DINING Delectable flavours… and creative cuisine

RESTAURANT GUIDE Highly recommended for gastronomic pleasure

EXCLUSIVE LIVING Living the Mediterranean dream

NOTICEBOARD Business and other news from around Spain

IN THE STARS Astrologist Russell Grant looks into the future

here was an upbeat mood last month at a well-attended evening soiree to present the song “Marbella, Marbella”. As one of the principals behind the initiative, a much-needed rallying cry for optimism, noted, “I try not to see this as a crisis but rather as a re-birth.” It was on the eve of last autumn when the world was rocked by what seemed like an overnight financial meltdown. Now it is spring (at least here in the northern hemisphere) and people are keen to clean out the cobwebs of caution and inertia and move forward with more positive vigour. It was a difficult winter for many but the general feeling, at least on the Costa del Sol, is that there is evidence of a tangible upturn – a new beginning. This is certainly the view of the publishers of a new magazine, Society Living, which has been put together by the Coast’s top editorial contributors, enhanced by a sharp, reader-friendly design. In addition to lifestyle, society and celebrity news with an international flavour, the publishers have a firm commitment to local content and, to that end, this launch issue features a special fashion shoot in Marbella’s Old Town by photographer CJ Hadlow and stylist Laura Dee Shelley, with model Emma Maria Landberg, Jessica White helping with the editorial coordination, and top local boutiques supplying the stunning outfits featured. Another priority for the publishers was to develop an effective distribution network, focusing on prime outlets (including rooms in leading hotels) to maximise exposure for advertisers. At the time of going to press, a state-of-the-art website (www.societylivingmagazine.com) was also under construction. We hope you enjoy this vibrant new chronicle of the Coast’s renowned Mediterranean lifestyle, and celebrated glamour, and welcome your feedback. Keep in touch at: editorial@societylivingmagazine.com

Publisher Andy Clark andy@societylivingmagazine.com Advertising Director Fay Jones advertising@societylivingmagazine.com Tel. 617 651 732 Advertising Represenative Kate Gooding Administration info@societylivingmagazine.com Tel. 952 838 000 Production Opus 1 Design design@societylivingmagazine.com

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Editorial editorial@societylivingmagazine.com Contributors Russell Grant, Gillaine Hathaway, Samantha Jones, Peter Leonard, Nicola McGeorge, Annabel Milnes-Smith, Linda Mindel Carvell, Micky Reynolds, Kristina Szekely, Nicki Waterman, Jessica White Cover photograph Photography by Cj Hadlow Dress: Nina B Photographers ByShaun, Toni Cochrane, Vincent de Vries, Gary Edwards, Johnny Gates, CJ Hadlow, Conrad Jones, Jens Nagel, David Toms

Society Living is published monthly by: Bespoke Media S.L. CIF: B92998483 Unit 8, C.C. La Colonia, San Pedro de Alcántara 29600 Marbella Tel. 952 838 000 www.societylivingmagazine.com Printer Jimenez Godoy Tel. 968 851 650 www.jimenezgodoy.com The views and opinions expressed by contributors to Society Living may not represent the views and opinions of the publishers. Bespoke Media takes no responsibility for claims made in advertisements or advertorials in this magazine. No part of Society Living may be reproduced or copied in any way without the prior written consent of Bespoke Media.

Visit our store at Calle Muelle De Ribera, Casa N 12, Puerto Banus, Marbella , Malaga +34 (0)952810171 www.agentprovocateur.com

GLAMOUR DIGEST

A RESILIENT WEB OF LUXURY Forget the crisis – at least in our dreams. In their annual report, Lamborghini reported increased turnover, profits and sales for 2008, though the luxury sportscar manufacturer did also concede that the worldwide economic climate, especially regarding luxury markets, had “changed dramatically”. What hasn’t changed is the company’s commitment to announcing at least one new product a year, the latest being the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder. www.lamborghini.com

CHIC STYLES AND ALLURING IDEAS FROM THE WORLD OF FASHION… PLUS OTHER IN VOGUE NEWS FOR TREND-SETTERS COMPILED BY SAMANTHA JONES & JESSICA WHITE

STUNNING STYLE FOR SUMMER Christian Dior have a fabulous summer accessories range that will add flair to any outfit this season. The leather goods collection includes bags, purses, key rings and belts in a variety of summer colours including this luxurious “Le 30” bag in white leather with printed pony details, perfect to fit in all those must-have items that we carry around all the time. Other accessories include rings, bracelets and necklaces, including the “Dior Animalia” necklace in bronze plating with black and brown enamel plates and Swarovski rhinestones. www.dior.com

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GLAMOUR DIGEST GREEN FASHION SUPPORT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Giselle Bundchen – considered one of the leading supermodels in the world – hosted a special press conference in Madrid last month to launch her new footwear collection for Brazilian fashion retailers Ipanema. The collection – which is aptly named “Seeds” – has been developed in conjunction with the footwear brand Grendene to support the reforestation and conservation of Brazil’s Florestas Do Futuro tropical rainforest area. The name “Seeds” has been chosen for the collection as it represents hope, the future and a new beginning for the area, which is considered one of the most diverse, and unfortunately threatened, rainforest regions in the world.

VIBRANT STYLES INSPIRED BY THE EIGHTIES Another fabulous collection by John Galliano for Christian Dior makes its mark, as always, in the fashion world this season. The spring-summer 2009 ready-to-wear collection is bright, edgy and reminiscent of the eighties, which is where every designer seems to be looking to at this time of year. Mini dresses, strapless maxi dresses and short-sleeved jackets come in an array of colours including canary yellow, blue, orange, mint and nude (one of this season’s favourite colours); while sheer skirts and shift-style dresses are loose and full of volume. www.dior.com

CHIC POOL PARTY DESIGNS New York – “the city that never sleeps” – is the main inspiration behind La Perla’s stunning beachwear collection for 2009, which fuses design elements from the city’s most emblematic landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge and the futuristic Bird’s Nest. Fabrics used for the collection are finished with metallic effects, holograms, bold orchid prints and reflective detailing. Names given to pieces within the La Perla range include Downtown Design, Skyline Couture, Sexy Orchid and Urban Goddess, making this the perfectly cosmopolitan collection for chic rooftop pool parties in the vibrant heart of the Big Apple. www.laperla.com

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CITY LIGHTS

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt: Bypassed posh Indian restaurants in favour of local Noor Jahan in Earl’s Court.

POSTCARD from London LINDA MINDEL CARVELL BRINGS US UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE NEWS, TRENDS AND GLAMOUR FROM THE CAPITAL OF STYLE AND CELEBRITY

A Sarah Jessica Parker: A fashion icon thanks to the success of Sex and the City 12

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s Carrie in Sex and the City, Sarah Jessica Parker became a fashion icon, resulting in sponsors signing her up for mega buck deals. I caught up with the petite star at Claridge’s, where she was launching her latest trio of perfumes. Dressed in a pretty sugar-pink Chanel suit, and sky-high Balenciaga heels, she was charming and chatty, and worked the room like a pro. Sarah Jessica is one hell of a clever little cupcake. She executive-produced the mega successful SATC TV series, produced the hit Sex and the City: The Movie, and earns multi-million bucks from Coty for her fragrances. She tells me that her production company has finished making its first TV pilot, called Washingtonienne, which stars

three young actresses. She’s also delighted to be filming a romantic comedy with Hugh Grant, about a sparring couple who are under a witness protection scheme in the States. SJP’s been performing and earning her own crust from the age of eight. Though not the most gifted actress on the block, nor a classic beauty, she possesses a lovable quality that fans find endearing. Scarlett Johansson, Woody Allen’s DanishJewish Manhattan screen siren, has also been in town. The pillow-lip beauty, who will star as Black Widow opposite Robert Downey Jr and Mickey Rourke in The Iron Man sequel, has been scooping up big bucks as the face and body of Dolce & Gabbana’s first make-up range, and the first celebrity face of Moet & Chandon. Johansson looked ravishing at Moet’s glam Tribute to the Cinema party at London’s Big

CITY LIGHTS Sky film studio, where her role as ambassador was announced. I thought her new-look dark hair looked tres chic. So, too, did fellow guests Thandie Newton and Joseph Fiennes. You can’t move in London now for visitors, but these are not the usual sightseeing crowd: these are all shopaholics. With the pound down 20 per cent on the euro and the dollar, and sales still on with 50 per cent reductions, London is suddenly cheap. According to one Italian client, she had bought Bvlgari jewellery in London at less than the price in Milan, so she went mad and spent far too much, which led to a slight altercation with her husband at din-dins that night. My step-son was over from Frankfurt with his fiancée, and they reckoned most things in the shops were 50 per cent down on the year before. If you’re thinking of a spring break, don’t be put off by the official hotel prices. Nearly all hotels are dealing, and an hour on the web can show you some serious reductions. Serious reductions are also true of London property. Most of our Russian billionaires have lost billions and left the market; some American investors are taking advantage of the dollar strength to start buying, but only at prices at least 20 per cent down on 2007. The Candy brothers are still offering their new flats and houses at £20-£45 million, but the Monaco tax exiles are strangely silent about any sales. In fact, La Dame Rumour has it that some of their personal homes and yachts are up for sale. The truth is that none of us know what our homes are worth now, and some of the City banker/dealer areas around Canary Wharf are down 40 per cent. Watch out Sotogrande! London is launching a new version of polo, in an attempt to jazz up the ancient game. Jodie Kidd, model and star of Strictly Come Dancing, along with her brother Jack, told me that they want to take away the stuffiness from trad polo, and make it a game that TV would take up. It will have a smaller pitch, new scoring system, yellow cards, sin bins, with cameras and microphones strapped on everyone involved. A three-day, £1 million international

Gary Rhodes: One of the popular celebrity chefs taking part in Regent’s Park Taste of London Festival in June.

Scarlett Johansson: Increasing her bank balance as the celebrity face of Moet & Chandon and Dolce & Gabbana.

tournament starts on 5 June in Hurlingham Park, and Jodie expects teams from Paris, New York, Buenos Aires, Sydney and Mumbai to compete. “We want to do for polo what Twenty/20 did for cricket,” says Jodie. “Oh, dear,” muttered my snapper! Over 40 of London’s hottest eating spots will be participating in the Regent’s Park Taste of London Festival next month, from 18 to 21 June. Celebrated chefs Gary Rhodes, Joel Robuchon, Giorgio Locatelli and Rowley Leigh are just a few of the foodie glitterati, who are giving live cooking demonstrations and will be debating topical food issues. Le Gavroche, Nahm, Cinnamon Kitchen, Duchasse at The Dorchester, Theo Randall and Le Café Anglais are among the exclusive restaurants that will be whipping up

delicious grub to seduce every palate (www.tastefestivals.com). Golden couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt (aka Brangelina) bypassed Michelin-starred restaurants and dined instead on lamb passada at Noor Jahan in Earl’s Court. A small, unpretentious Indian restaurant, it’s been a local landmark for over 40 years, and a favourite of regulars Kylie Minogue and Hugh Grant, who fancy the onion bhajis, vegetable samosas, dhal and tandori lamb chops. Jeffrey Archer and fellow art lovers enjoy lunching at The Rex Whistler Restaurant at Tate Britain, Millbank, which is a visual and culinary delight. It serves modern British food, under the direction of head chef Richard Oxley, and is a marvellous room for lunch and tea. I confess that I’ve often been critical of Channel 4’s cultural role in recent years. societyliving

CITY LIGHTS

Jodie Kidd: Wants to do for polo what Twenty/20 did for cricket.

Michael Sheen, who played Tony Blair brilliantly in The Queen and the TV film The Deal, will play the former Prime Minister for the third time, in a new film called The Special Relationship. The film, which will be directed by The Queen and Frost/Nixon playwright Peter Morgan, will document the political relationship between Blair and Bill Clinton. Dennis Quaid will play Clinton, Julianne Moore will be former first lady Hillary Clinton and Helen McCrory, who starred alongside Sheen in The Queen, will reprise her role as Cherie Blair. The Royal Gardens behind Buckingham Palace will be open to the public for the first time this month. Over the next three months, all visitors can pay £20 to walk the 1,500-metre path around the 40-acre (16-hectare) estate. I once saw part of the garden, when we were invited to a garden party. But the truth is that you don’t really see much, as you strain over the heads of the other thousands of guests, trying to see HM The Queen. Anyway, now we all can see over 350 types of wild flowers, listen to the sandpipers and sedge warblers, and watch the coots and mallards on the famous lake. All I want is to be photographed in the summer house, where Cecil Beaton took those famous snaps of the Queen Mother, and others of the Royal family, wearing my Chloe tea dress, Manolos and a Philip Treacy hat!

Slumdog Millionaire: The marvellous cast with some of their glittering prizes.

Linda Mindel Carvell is a London-based style and celebrity editor, who contributes to glossy magazines round the world. She also does a monthly Postcard From London broadcast for Talk Radio Europe on The Hannah Murray Programme.

However, with a budget of just £10 million a year, its film-making arm Film 4 has backed a fabulous quartet of British films. It struck gold with Slumdog Millionaire, HappyGo-Lucky, In Bruges and Hunger. Slumdog alone won eight Oscars, scooping up gongs galore at the BAFTAS, had a budget of only $15 million, and to date has taken in £98 million world-wide. Bravo! Good news for fans of David Tennant and Patrick Stewart who were unable to see them on stage in Hamlet. Tennant, Stewart and the entire cast of the brilliant Royal Shakespeare Company production are to make a film version next month, to be released later in the year.

The Rex Whistler Restaurant at Tate Britain: A visual and culinary gem for lunch or tea.

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Michael Sheen: Played Tony Blair brilliantly opposite Helen Mirren in The Queen, and will play him again in Peter Morgan’s new film, The Special Relationship.

MOVIE LINES CAMERON DIAZ and TOM CRUISE are set to team up again. The two, who appeared together in 2001’s Vanilla Sky, are up for the rom-com Wichita and Trouble Man (working title). She plays a woman who can’t find a man but keeps bumping into one that she met on a blind date. Another comedy in the pipeline for her is Swingles, the story of a ladies’ man whose wingman ditches him, so he teams up with a quickwitted woman he despises in order to meet single women.

Movie lines

WHAT’S ON SCREEN THIS MONTH… WHAT’S BEING FILMED AT THE MOMENT… AND WHAT’S IN THE PIPELINE… MICKY REYNOLDS LOOKS INSIDE THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF MOVIES

QUICK CLIPS

After the tragic death of his wife LIAM NEESON is now back at work portraying the battling god Zeus in the Greek-god epic Clash of the Titans. This is a remake of the 1981 film telling of the myth of Zeus’ son Perseus (SAM WORTHINGTON) and his quest to battle both Medusa and the Kraken monster in order to save the Princess Andromeda (ALEXA DAVALOS). 16

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RALPH FIENNES is Hades, ruler of the underworld who aims to overtake Zeus and rule over all, while GEMMA ANDERTON plays Io. WILLIAM HURT is the latest to jump on board RIDLEY SCOTT’s untitled Robin Hood project, playing William Marshall, the Earl of Pembroke, a historical figure who was one of the most powerful men in Europe at the time. Joining RUSSELL CROWE (Sheriff of

Nottingham) and CATE BLANCHETT (Maid Marian) is veteran actress VANESSA REDGRAVE as Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, the mother of King John, who is played by OSCAR ISSACS. Filming has started now the weather in the UK has improved. The much in demand MICHAEL SHEEN has joined the ever-growing cast of the vampire movie Twilight’s sequel New Moon. He will play the leader of the Volturi, a venerable coven of vampires who weigh and impose the laws of the vampire world. The award-winning actor has recently been on screen in Underworld 3: The Rise of The Lycans and playing the late great BRIAN CLOUGH in the football film The Damned United. Watchmen star PATRICK WILSON has joined the cast on J. J. ABRAMS Morning Glory. He

MOVIE LINES MOVIE OF THE MONTH STAR TREK X1 “Space – the final frontier”… the opening sentence of a catchphrase that has been around since the late 1960s. The TV show that gave the world those infamous words gained a cult status that, when you think about it, has hardly been matched by any other sci-fi programme in television history: Star Trek. This is the 11th big screen outing for this franchise and is a prequel to the legendary 1960s/1970s TV classics, concentrating on that show’s characters in Starfleet Academy prior to their adventures on the USS Enterprise where they “boldly went where no one had gone before”. James T. Kirk (CHRIS PINE) is a young hothead who is taken under the wing of Captain Christopher Pike (BRUCE GREENWOOD) and ushered off to Starfleet Academy where he bonds with Spock (Heroes villain ZACHARY QUINTO), a half human/half Vulcan who in the past has found it hard to be accepted by either race due to his mixed heritage. As the story unfolds they are commissioned for the USS Enterprise to confront Nero (ERIC BANA), a vicious Romulan (alien) from the future who threatens the United Federation of Planets. Other crew members on board the famous starship for this trip are KARL URBAN as “Bones” McCoy, ANTON YELCHIN (Chekov), ZOE SALDANA (Uhura), SIMON PEGG (Scotty) and JOHN CHO (Sulu). On a nostalgic front one of the 1960s/1970s cast, the legendary LEONARD NIMOY, makes a cameo appearance as an older incarnation of his original character Spock, while WINONA RYDER portrays his human mother. With the great J. J. ABRAMS in the director’s chair this long-awaited reboot cannot fail; whether you like it or not this movie will “live long and prosper”, becoming the first real big box office blockbuster of 2009 in the process.

will play the boyfriend of a TV news producer (RACHEL McADAMS) who is trying to boost the ratings of a failed news programme that is anchored by HARRISON FORD and DIANE KEATON. JEFF GOLDBLUM also stars and filming starts this month. Another Watchmen star, JACKIE EARLE HALEY, will don the dreaded razor-fingered glove of Freddy Krueger in the remake of the horror film A Nightmare on Elm Street. KYLE GALLNER has landed the lead teen male role as Quentin, an indie-style guy who runs the high school’s podcast radio station – the role in the original 1984 film was played by a 21-yearold debutant by the name of JOHNNY DEPP. Cameras start rolling this month. The above-mentioned has pulled out of MGM’s The Three Stooges story; only SEAN PENN has so

far signed playing Larry, while BENECIO DEL TORO and JIM CARREY are in talks to play Moe and Curly, respectively. This vaudeville troupe’s madcap slapstick comedy during the mid-20th century was loved by millions. The Expendables update: SYLVESTER STALLONE has now signed DAVID ZAYAS (Angel Batista in TV’s excellent Dexter) and BRITTANY MURPHY for his all-star line-up. He will play the South American dictator that a bunch of mercenaries are on a mission to overthrow, while she is MICKEY ROURKE’s girlfriend. Already filming are JASON STATHAM, JET LI, DOLPH LUNDGREN, BEN KINGSLEY, SANDRA BULLOCK, ERIC ROBERTS, DANNY TREJO and ARNOLD SCHWAZENEGGER, who will be portraying himself.

SIX OF THE BEST INTERNATIONAL RELEASES FOR MAY Hannah Montana: The Movie – 1 May (8 May in Spain) Disney TV Channel’s phenomenon jumps to the big screen, and as she struggles with fame her father takes the teen queen back to her home town for a dose of reality. MILEY CIRUS, BILLY RAY CIRUS, TYRA BANKS Star Trek XI – 8 May For synopsis see Movie of the Month Coraline – 8 May (28 August in Spain) In this vivid stop-motion animated flick an adventurous girl enters a hidden door in her new home and stumbles into an alternate version of her life which has sinister secrets. Voices of DAKOTA FANNING and TERI HATCHER Chéri – 8 May (TBA in Spain) Set in Paris prior to World War I – a wealthy courtesan forces her son to give up a six-year relationship with an older woman who she despises. MICHELLE PFEIFFER, RUPERT FRIEND, KATHY BATES Angels and Demons – 15 May This sequel to The Da Vinci Code is actually set prior to DAN BROWN’s original novel. Robert Langdon (TOM HANKS) investigates a murder victim branded with the Illuminati ambigram and discovers the secret society’s plan to murder four cardinals and destroy St. Peter’s Basilica. AYELET ZURER, EWAN McGREGOR 12 Rounds – 27 May (TBA in Spain) After a year in prison a brilliant thief kidnaps the girlfriend of the cop who put him away to seek revenge of his own girlfriend’s death. The lawman must complete 12 challenges set by the ex-con in order to secure her safe release. JON CENA, AIDEN GILLEN, ASHLEY SCOTT

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MUSIC NOTES ROCK SUPER GROUP HEADING FOR MADRID? A super group featuring members of VAN HALEN and the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS plus demi rock god JOE SATRIANI (pictured) are set to release an album and tour this year – and Madrid is in line for a gig on 1 July. CHICKENFOOT feature SAMMY HAGAR (ex VAN HALEN) on vocals; guitar legend JOE SATRIANI on sixstring; MICHAEL ANTHONY (ex VAN HALEN) on bass; and CHAD SMITH of the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS on drums – and they decided to make a go of it after a series of “accidental” jams at HAGAR’s club in Mexico. A self-titled debut album is released on 5 June, featuring a unique “heat sensitive” sleeve that will reveal the artwork via touch. All band members have pedigree but SATRIANI is held with the highest esteem among his fellow axe merchants, being a founder member of the ever-changing annual touring trio G3 – plus he has played with the likes of MICK JAGGER, DEEP PURPLE, STEVE VAI, BRIAN MAY and YNGWIE MALMSTEEN. At the time of going to press the venue for the Madrid gig had not been named but more info can be found on www.chickenfoot.us.

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he winter-spring concert season at the Cervantes Theatre in Málaga comes to a close this month with the US alternative country-rock outfit WILCO on the 25th and the English space rockers SPIRITUALIZED gracing the stage on the 31st. More info at www.teatrocervantes.com/es/gen ero/musica. The summer concert season is upon us, but nothing happening on the Coast at the mo – though extra tickets for the AC/DC concert in Barcelona on 7 June are still available from El Corte Inglés or the Servicaixa cash points at your local La Caixa bank. At the time of going to press there were still tickets for the additional U2 (SNOW PATROL are the support band) gig in Barcelona on 2 July; and there were places for the BEYONCÉ concert in Madrid on 19 May. Tickets for the above two are available at

Music notes GIGS, GROUPS, GOSSIP... MICKY REYNOLDS BRINGS US UP TO DATE WITH ROCK SNIPPETS FROM AROUND THE WORLD www.ticketmaster.es. Benicàssim Festival-bound THE KILLERS will take a long-earned break after their current world tour finishes this autumn as they are “sick of the sight of each other”. The US alternative rockers have been working solidly since forming in 2002 and in this time have released three albums. The line-up for the July festival is growing; keep up-to-date on any new bands added at www. fiberfib.com. While having a tattoo done on his bum PETER D’OH-ERTY stopped the session as the said area was hurting – makes you

laugh as many say that he always has been a pain in that region. He was attempting to get the word ‘Wasteland’ etched in tribute to his favourite poem by T.S. ELIOT which is also part of the title of his recently released album Grace/Wastelands. The tattooist only got as far as writing “Waste” – says it all, doesn’t it. URIEL JONES recently died aged 74 from a heart attack. Who, you might well ask? This drummer was a member of the FUNK BROTHERS, the session band who were responsible for almost all the backing tracks for the Tamla Motown label’s classics in the ‘60s

GREEN DAY’s long-awaited new album, 21st Century Breakdown, is out on 15 May and is preceded by a single, Know Your Enemy. The MANIC STREET PREACHERS release their new album, Journal For Plague Lovers, on 18 May and it will include lyrics written by band main man RICHEY EDWARDS before he went missing in February 1995. He was said to be disillusioned with the musical direction the and the early ‘70s. During that period this group of musicians played on more number-one hits than the BEATLES, ELVIS PRESLEY, the ROLLING STONES and the BEACH BOYS combined. If you want to see what it was all about check out the documentary Standing in the Shadows of Motown. CHRIS CORNELL seems to have had a mixed two years: first of all he fell out with the rest of super group VELVET REVOLVER and left; then his second solo album Carry On flopped; and his recently released TIMBALAND-produced LP Scream was slagged off by fans and critics alike, and branded as “embarrassing” by the highly respected NINE INCH NAILS frontman TRENT RAZNOR on his Twitter page. And to top it all, the rest of the former band that made him famous, SOUNDGARDEN, recently reunited on stage and are considering getting back together – and it’s not known if he will be invited back. Last year’s X Factor winner ALEXANDRA BURKE has put back the release of the debut album she is currently recording in LA with master producer RED ONE until next January. So all we have until then is her rendition of

recording label wanted the band to go so he walked out and has never been seen or heard from since. There have been “sightings” in Goa and even the Canary Islands over the past 14 years but last November he was officially “presumed dead”. Since going missing, the band has still put 25 per cent of their royalties into a bank account for him. UK indie band THE HOLLOWAYS, who release their second album, No Smoke, No Mirrors, this month, have been invited to make a cameo appearance in the Sex and the City movie sequel. ROBBIE WILLIAMS will collaborate with TAKE THATagain but only on the official band biography; all hopes of him rejoining the group have been squashed for the time being. So WINEHOUSE wants to do a MADONNA and adopt a kid from St. Lucia – with all those banana skins she’s apparently been smoking we know what the poor little mite’s diet would consist of, don’t we? Hallelujah; unfortunately when she covered that wonderful song it was ruined forever. Comedy script writer CHARLIE BROOKER summed it up best on his BBC 4 TV show: “It is now the song that is destined to be played at thick people’s funerals.” Another former winner LEONA LEWIS is doing a “Mariah Carey” and takes a vow of silence of 24 hours before each performance as she reckons it protects her vocal chords – it’s a pity LILY ALLEN doesn’t follow suit. But she does take her own personal pillow with her so she can have a kip when she boards a plane – that’s the only time silly LILY shuts up, when she’s asleep. Saw a good comment about Britain’s Got Talent singing sensation SUSAN BOYLE (does Norman Bates dressing up as his mother in ALFRED HITCHCOCK’s Psycho come to mind?)… it said “she has the voice of an angel but the body of a Hells Angel” (no offence meant if any members or prospects read this). At the time of going to press she has had over 100 million “hits” on YouTube – and by the looks of it so has her face. Micky is the manager and DJ at Castaways Rock Bar in Fuengirola (behind the taxi rank near the Las Palmeras Hotel).

PET POWER

“It really gives meaning to man’s best friend.”

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PET POWER

CUTE, CUDDLY AND CHEEKY The Coast’s most photogenic pets

tc fotografia Avda. Mercado 24 & 29 Edificio Plaza Marbella Tel. 952 865 509 www.tcfotografia.com

ur search to find the most photogenic pets on the Costa del Sol uncovered some true stars. Many proud and loving pet owners entered their best friends in the competition and, after much deliberation, our three judges finally narrowed the short-list down to the final three. Photographer Toni Cochrane, Society Living’s Jessica White and guest judge Kristina Szekely said it was extremely hard to choose the winners, as almost every animal showed a different quality – cute, cheeky, handsome. In the end they tried to choose a varied crosssection for the three winners. Our inaugural champion is Nuska, who was awarded top prize for this fabulous shot. “It was so great to photograph this picture,” said Toni. “It really gives meaning to man’s best friend.” Second place went to Toffee (above). “This picture is so cute,” said Jessica. “Toffee looks like a cheeky little thing.” Ikra (right) won third place, for the cheekiest picture. Said Kristina (pictured with her own dog, Sultan), “It’s a fun picture; it makes you smile just looking at it.” societyliving

SCENE & HEARD

Exquisite hospitality at top hotel resort inauguration The luxurious five-star hotel, golf and spa development Finca Cortesin hosted a superb inauguration attended by the crème-de-la-crème of Marbella society and leading authorities including special guests of honour Luciano Alonso (Andalucian regional minister for tourism and sport) and Juan Sánchez (mayor of Casares). Following the official inaugural ceremony, the finest champagne flowed as

COSTA GLAMOUR ... MIXING BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

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guests savoured a selection of exquisite gourmet canapĂŠs created by executive chef Schilo, and enjoyed a full tour of the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breathtaking facilities. The development is the eagerly awaited project from real estate group Single Home, whose team welcomed an impressive guest list of associates, clients and press to the prestigious venue. Photos: DavidTomsPhotography.com

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Marbella glitterati out in force for club launch The crème de la crème of Costa del Sol society joined Spanish and international VIP guests for the opening of James Hewitt’s polo-themed restaurant and club in Marbella. The philosophy behind The Polo House Marbella Restaurant & Club is to “create a civilised feel of a colonial club”. To that end the establishment, which reportedly cost two million euros to renovate (including a ¤45,000 12-metre bar), will cater for al fresco lunches, fine dining and dancing until the early hours. Photos: Gary Edwards

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Well-attended inauguration in luxurious location The luxurious Laguna Village provided the setting for the inauguration of Barra Fontaines & CheminĂŠes, who were joined by an excellent turnout for the special evening. Guests enjoyed fine hospitality as they admired Barraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artisanal fountains and chimneys made using the finest natural stone from Provence, and contemporary stainless steel fountains and bio ethanol chimneys. Photos: JohnnyGates.com

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Facelift for long-established Cortijo Blanco bar The Olive Tree Bar in Cortijo Blanco is a home from home for expats and the local community alike. However, having been established for many years, the proprietors decided it was time for a complete refurbishment. Once completed, Gordon Ambidge threw a party to celebrate the â&#x20AC;&#x153;new lookâ&#x20AC;?, with over 150 guests marking the occasion. Needless to say, there was no shortage of liquid refreshment; cava, wines and beers were complemented with traditional English food including tiger prawns, hams, cheese, English bangers and, my absolute favourite, sausage rolls. The normally quiet Cortijo Blanco area positively exploded into life as the revellers partied on late into the night. Words Annabel Milnes-Smith Photos JohnnyGates.com

COSTA GLAMOUR ... MIXING BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

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Fine wine and cuisine in an elegant setting El Rinc贸n de Guadalpin hosted a special afternoon in conjunction with The Wine Appreciation Society of Marbella and Bonhams Auctioneers where guests enjoyed an insightful set of wine valuations and tastings conducted by leading wine connoisseurs and suppliers. El Rinc贸n chef Michael Matheson prepared a sumptuous lunch which perfectly complemented the wines selected for the occasion. Photos: JohnnyGates.com

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Fantastic birthday celebrations in Marbella Joyce van der Lely celebrated her 39th birthday in style with a party at fashionable Golden Mile venue Lime&Co where the birthday girl was joined by three decades of friends and family. A great party atmosphere, excellent food and plenty of celebratory drinks ensured a fantastic night as the unforgettable DJ Warren played until the very early hours of the morning. Photos: JohnnyGates.com

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Sparking Las Vegas theme for anniversary party Hotel Puente Romano restaurant and nightclub Suite celebrated its sixth anniversary with a Las Vegas themed party complete with blackjack and roulette table laid on by Casino Entertainment. Complimentary cosmopolitans flowed from the Grey Goose bar and guests arriving on the red carpet were able to view a stunning 1950s Speedster, which had been driven by James Dean and was presented on the evening by Speedster Avenue. All in all, guests enjoyed a glamorous and fun-filled night of celebrations which marked yet another successful year for Suite. Photos: JohnnyGates.com

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Successful open day for Danish commercial centre Centro Idea – the popular commercial centre located on the Mijas road – hosted a well-attended open day where guests enjoyed a range of exhibition stands from Centro Idea businesses. A highlight of the day was the catwalk fashion show which featured stunning collections from the centre’s various boutiques. Fine hospitality was laid on during the day, making this another successful event for Centro Idea. Photos: ByShaun.com

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Dutch club hosts special anniversary concert The Netherlands Club Costa del Sol celebrated its 30th anniversary with memorable celebrations at the Hotel Alaya in Benalmรกdena where guests enjoyed a special series of performances from the renowned bandoneรณn player Carl Kraayenhof and the La Insostenible Big Band from Mรกlaga. Special guests at the celebration included the Dutch ambassador, Sir J.G.S.T.M. van Hellenberg Hubar, the Dutch consul on the Costa del Sol, Dr. Frank Buster, and the president of the Netherlands Club Costa del Sol, Wim ten Dolle. Photos: Vincent de Vries

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Colourful open day for children’s holiday club Kids Inc – the new school holiday play scheme located at Hotel Puente Romano – hosted a well-attended launch party where parents and children had the chance to get to know each other and familiarise themselves with the club. Children enjoyed all sorts of activities and games throughout the afternoon including face painting, balloon modelling and entertainment from Tina of Creative Entertainers, while parents enjoyed fine hospitality and children were treated to party bags to take home. Open throughout the school holidays, Kids Inc offers a packed timetable of activities ranging from art and craft and games to beach sports and paddle tennis. Photos: DavidTomsPhotography.com

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Spectacular show to celebrate stage school anniversary Stagecoach celebrated its 10th anniversary on the Costa del Sol with a spectacular show in the Sala Fortuna at Hotel Torrequebrada where over 160 students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; aged four to 16, from Stagecoach Theatre Schools in Cartama, Fuengirola, Marbella and Gibraltar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; took part in the spectacle, which was directed and produced by Stagecoach director Warren Webley and his team. All-time favourites from West End musicals were featured during the fantastic show, with talented and experienced guest singers appearing alongside the younger stars to add a memorable touch to the evening. Photos: danbryanphotography.co.uk

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Stalwart of the Costa social scene celebrates “glorious” anniversary ANNABEL MILNES-SMITH, OUR STAR SOCIAL CONTRIBUTOR, CELEBRATED HER SIXTH ANNIVERSARY ON THE COAST AT HER FAVOURITE SPOT ON THE BEACH, SAN PEDRO’S BEL MARE RESTAURANT Who would believe, despite many sceptics running a book on me lasting only two weeks on re-locating to Spain, that six years down the line I believe that I have lost them, shall we say, a fair amount of money. Luckily, on arrival here, only knowing a couple of people, I was fortunately accepted into the fold. The past years have been a whirlwind: some ups, some downs, but with my hand on my heart I would not have missed a moment. What other place could you combine PR and journalism with learning the art of fishing, polo, shooting and golf (less said about the latter, the better!), among many other countryside pursuits, combined with numerous adventures abroad. To celebrate the anniversary, I was joined by some of my nearest and dearest, though sadly one of my closest friends could not attend, due to being burgled that morning. Hopefully the police will catch the thieves, having been terribly efficient and bringing in a forensic team. Despite the unhappy news, we sat down to a magnificent feast and owner Merich, after the jolly lunch, brought out the bubbly. I was toasted throughout and thanked all present

SOCIAL SCENE

‘‘

We began the year slowly but the turning point came at the end of March

Kristina Szekely’s REAL ESTATE IMPRESARIO, INDEFATIGABLE PARTY-GOER, PATRON OF THE ARTS, GENEROUS CHARITY SUPPORTER… KRISTINA SZEKELY IS THE QUEEN OF MARBELLA SOCIETY

am delighted to report this month that there are now the first positive signs of an upturn in the real estate market. We had a fabulous Easter, the best for many years – and the weather was wonderful as well! It was busy not only for parties, which is usual at that time of the year, but also business. We began the year slowly but the turning point came at the end of March. People are not just looking but also making decisions and really going ahead! It’s a very varied clientele, of all nationalities, and we have sales from ¤130,000 to over five million euros. These are certainly interesting times: not only are owners saying yes to offers but also no, that they’re not willing to negotiate. Other owners are taking their properties off the market until next year, and some are even raising their prices. All of this is helping the upturn, as it means prices are not falling any more. And it’s not just us: other real estate companies are reporting the same. The upturn is going to take a little time because the global situation is not stabilised, but at least now people are not asking how long prices are going to keep going down. Confidence is definitely coming back. On the social scene, a lot of friends were down here for Easter and we had some

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DIARY

wonderful parties, including a beautiful celebration at Olivia Valere’s; another one at a friend’s Guadalmina home; lunch at Maika’s villa on the beach, with live music just like in summer; a dinner at Incosol by the local francophone association, which promotes French culture; and Gert Stenger’s annual party, where Abi Ofarim, a German singer who is making a revival, was the special guest. I also attended the presentation of a book written by Maria Ángeles Rabadán on the 50year Spanish career of local restaurateur Santiago, with proceeds from it donated to the heart foundation; and travelled to Sevilla for a Rotary meeting to show presidents and secretaries how to carry out their responsibilities (I take over as Marbella president from Patrick Op de Beeck on 1 July, with the annual gala dinner just two weeks later, on 18 July). Then there was a tremendous launch party for James Hewitt’s The Polo House Marbella Restaurant & Club. It was a very happy occasion. All the people who have been living here for some time really want Marbella to return to normal, and events like this one are great. As was the presentation last month at Da Buno restaurant of a tribute song, “Marbella, Marbella”, written by Dario Polo and performed by the stunning and explosive Marbella-based

’’

Cuban singer Yanela. More fantastic news for Marbella concerns the Davis Cup, which will be held at the Nueva Andalucía bullring from 10 to 12 July. There will be 12,000 spectators in town watching the tennis event, and an estimated 600 million people following it on TV. The moment reports appeared in the newspaper I pasted it all over our port office windows. You have to spread the good news! I’m even more thrilled because a lot of people attending the Cup will be walking past our main office. Someone even suggested we organise a meeting point there that week. I’m open to ideas if you would like to contact me on telephone 952 810 102. I have also had the opportunity in recent months of spreading the word on national Spanish TV about the beautiful homes we have here, and last month I was asked to show TV crews from Germany’s RTL around some of the top local properties. I’ve been giving conferences lately, including one for a German group where the other guest speaker was Dr. Martin Hüfner, who presented his book “Achtung Geld in Gefahr” explaining how to deal with the crisis. It was reassuring to hear other financiers at the meeting also talk about positive signs of an upturn since March. In fact, in spite of falling prices recently, most people will generally have had their property long enough to still make a good profit, as for several years previously prices had been going up 10 to 20 per cent annually. Those who bought eight years ago or more, in my mind are still making money. Boats are also a good buy at the moment. I attended the Gibraltar Boat Show last month and one boat sold for a third of its value five years ago, in a repossession. Our own boating department has excellent valued berths for sale in Puerto Banús, of 18 and 26 metres. So it is now time to be optimistic about the future, and all play our part in making sure Marbella – which tends to be like an island anyway – is one of the first places to put the difficult times behind it.

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SNAPSHOTS As it is not always possible to cover every party, launch or general celebration we would like to in our Society pages, the Snapshots section features other events along the coast – and further afield. If you would like your special occasion featured in the magazine, send us a selection of high-resolution photos and a brief write-up about the event (maximum 50 words), by 10 May (for the June issue) to: editorial@societylivingmagazine.com

Helping people get their lives back on track Horizontes celebrated its 27th anniversary with a gala dinner at Hotel El Fuerte. Presided over by the president Isabel Garcon, it was a great celebration of so many years of dedicated work to get drug addicts back into society. I was even more privileged a couple of weeks later to be invited to lunch in the Marbella apartment where Horizontes begins its rehabilitations programme. We were served a delicious meal in immaculately clean surroundings, where rules and timetables are strictly adhered to. Francisco cooked a delicious meal for us aided by his flatmates Alexander from Russia and Toder from Bulgaria, all overseen by their carer, Casilda Torrogrosa. All three are in the first stage of their rehabilitation. After some four months they move on to the second phase in Málaga then return to Marbella to live in the apartment or, if they have families, to live with them again while continuing their programme. Words: Gillaine Hathaway Photos: DavidTomsPhotography.com

Special fund-raising tombola for hospital charity A second-hand book sale and tombola was held at the Passion Café in aid of Los Claveles, a charity dedicated to raising funds to supply a top-of-the-range radiotherapy machine for Marbella’s Costa del Sol Hospital, as well as providing ongoing support to its oncology department. A similar event is planned soon; organiser Louise Cripps can be contacted on Tel. 952 780 507 or luisa@mercuryin.es. Anyone else interested in holding an event for Los Claveles can contact the president, Marion Winter, on Tel. 952 863 926 or claveles@hcs.es.

Lucky winner of F1 radio competition Eleven-year-old Joan Fragosso Donaldson won a VIP pass to sit in the cockpit of a F1 car simulator, in a competition held on Spectrum.fm’s “Slowly Slowly Catch the Monkey” radio programme, presented by Marco Dalli. Also pictured presenting the prize is Carlo Mason from Blue Sky Super Car Hire. 50

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Calahonda ladies support cancer hospice Members of Calahonda Masonic Lodge Nº 53, which was officially established in 2005, presented a cheque for ¤1,500 to Laura Haggis Sottas from the Cudeca hospice – the culmination of the year’s charity fund-raising.

Champagne reception for special real estate event Friends and colleagues enjoyed “fun and frolics”, tasty canapés and free-flowing Spanish cava at a “double open house” organised by Hanston Marbella at Menara Beach & Las Dunas Park, and hosted by Melanie and Ton from the international luxury estates company.

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Marbella style at glamorous red carpet event in Estonia Nikki Beach presented a special one-off party in the Estonian capital of Tallin, where a host of celebrities and VIPs were invited to a glamorous red carpet event at the luxurious lounge and restaurant Vertigo. Champagne flowed as guests were treated to a full line-up of entertainment including a fashion show by Sportalm and a competition to select dancers for the coming Nikki Beach season in Marbella – which is set to launch this month. Photos: JohnnyGates.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE COAST…UPCOMING EVENTS

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ON THE ROAD

Classic poise ... with state-of-the-art design FOR BENTLEY, THE CONTINENTAL GT COUPÉ MIGHT BE CONSIDERED THE DRIVER’S CAR, AND THE FLYING SPUR THE MORE PRACTICAL FOUR-DOOR GRAND TOURER, BUT THE NEW GTC IS THE “SHOWPIECE OF BENTLEY DESIGN” PHOTOS BYSHAUN n executive from one of the leading prestige car-makers in the UK was asked if the crisis had affected sales. “We’ve decided to give the crisis a miss,” he replied. His sanguine view of the current market is not necessarily shared by all colleagues in the industry, but it is essentially true that business at the higher luxury end has tended to resist the economic downturn with more success than the vehicle industry as a whole – if only because any credit crunch is not likely to be relevant when you are outlaying a few hundred thousand euros on a sleek new W12. To paraphrase an old saying, if you have to ask for credit you’re probably in the wrong showroom. For Society Living’s crack motoring team that would normally mean the Toyota Yaris

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dealership in another part of town but on this occasion we found ourselves at C. de Salamanca’s plush showrooms in San Pedro, where Bentley had kindly supplied us with a Continental GTC to put it through its paces around the highways and byways of Marbella. The GTC, which debuted in 2006, is the second convertible in the current Bentley range, following the return of the Azure name for the company’s Arnage-derived flagship four-seater. As to be expected, it offers the trademark high-performance and dynamic handling of a Bentley Continental, added to the pleasures of classic open-top motoring. The Crewe-built W12 twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre engine, delivering 552bhm/411Kw, can propel you to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds, and a top speed of 312km/h (roof up).

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ON THE ROAD

This 2+2 convertible version of the Continental GT coupĂŠ has the traditional Bentley opulence of natural wood veneers and premium-quality leather hides, as well as an ultra-stiff body structure. It is available in three new standard exterior colours (Havana, White Sand and Onyx) and two new standard interior hide colours (Imperial Blue and Linen).

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ON THE ROAD

The seven-bow, three-layer, soft-fabric roof – with heated glass rear screen – operates electro-hydraulically; while the “unique” rear suspension system increases roof stowage space without impacting on the 235-litre luggage compartment volume, which the company reports can carry skis and golf bags or travel bags simultaneously. The roof folds flat in 25 seconds; and the designers have ensured that all the working parts are covered, meaning that during this operation not one piece of the mechanism is visible. An all-wheel drive system with Torsen differential is driven by a six-speed automatic gearbox with manual change mode and paddleshift controls; the air suspension has continuous damping control (four adjustable settings); and the 405-millimetre ventilated front brake discs are “the largest diameter discs of any series production passenger car on sale today”. Like the coupé and four-door convertibles, the GTC utilises an underbody diffuser and specially sculpted rear bumper and bootlid edge to provide downforce and stability at high speed. The front seats have a sculpted rear which produces an additional 30 millimetres of knee space in the rear; while the latest cabin technology also includes power-latching doors, fully adjustable electric front seats (heated with an optional massage function) and climate control. The advanced info-entertainment system 56

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features DVD satellite navigation system; optional television tuner; computerised suspension control operation (damper and ride height settings); 6-CD auto changer in the glove compartment; and optional rear-view camera aid for reversing. New features include a “Naim for Bentley” premium audio system, iPod interface and upgraded Park Distance Control. The GTC Mulliner Driving Specification model also has new 20-inch, seven-spoke sports alloy wheels. In order to rid the car of any “scuttle shake”, engineers implemented a development programme aimed at ensuring the GTC’s steel body had a torsional stiffness of about 30Hz – “an incredible figure for a convertible”, according to Bentley. Despite the resulting “significant” reinforcement to the body, the weight of the car has risen by just 110 kilograms compared with the GT coupé, to 2,495 kilograms. According to Bentley Motors’ chairman and chief executive, Franz-Josef Paefgen, “It is very elegant and at the same time effortlessly modern. It will appeal to many different customers: people who are tired of driving sports cars that require too much effort; people who want to move up from more standard convertibles; and people who want to make a statement about what they drive, yet still own a car that they can use every day of the year.”

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ON THE ROAD

The Continental GTC featured here was supplied by C. de Salamancaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bentley dealership in Marbella. For more information contact Victor Kortscheff Pardo: Tel. 952 785 258 vkortscheff@bentley-marbella.com www.bentley-marbella.com

TECHNICAL FILE Engine type: twin-turbocharged W12 Capacity: 6.0-litre, 5998 cc Power: 552 bhp/560 PS/411 kW @ 6100 rev/min Torque: 650 Nm/479 lb/ft @ 1600 rev/min Top speed (roof up): 312 km/h Top speed (roof down): 306 km/h 0-100 km/h: 5.1 sec Transmission: ZF 6-speed automatic (plus manual operation) Overall length: 4,804 mm Width: 2,101 mm Height: 1,398 mm Weight: 2,495 kg Luggage compartment volume: 235 lit

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FASHION FLAIR

Top – Twist ¤49 Trousers – Twist ¤55 Sandals – Aftershock £40 Watch – Nina B ¤98 Necklace – Elle Morgan ¤112

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Front cover: Dress – Nina B ¤159 Bracelet – Twist ¤59 Bracelet – Elle Morgan ¤35 Ring – Aftershock £35

FASHION FLAIR

ELEGANTLY

CHIC

The ultimate summer neutral is back. White is such a popular colour when the summer season rolls around that we thought we would give you a taste of what is on offer from the leading local boutiques. Dress – Nina B ¤269 Necklace – Twist ¤75

Photography by Cj Hadlow Tel. 952 784 838 / 622 227 006 www.cjsalterego.com Hair, Make-Up and Styling: Laura Dee Shelley lshelleymakeupartist@googlemail.com Tel. 663 310 342 Editorial Coordination: Jessica White Model: Emma Maria Landberg (Target Models – www.targetmodels.com) Special Thanks to The Town House Hotel in Marbella Old Town and Lisa Anne Lamrani

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FASHION FLAIR Dress – Twist ¤79 Shoes – Helyjo ¤165 Necklace – Aftershock £53

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FASHION FLAIR

Bra – Agent Provocateur ¤105 Briefs – Agent Provocateur ¤75 Slip – Agent Provocateur ¤400 Earrings – Twist ¤29 societyliving

FASHION FLAIR

Top – Nina B ¤139 Jeans – Twist ¤199 Bracelet – Elle Morgan ¤59 Necklace – Twist ¤95 66

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FASHION FLAIR Dress – Elle Morgan ¤345 Sunglasses – Helyjo ¤155 Necklace – Helyjo ¤995 Bracelet – Helyjo ¤385 Sandals – Twist ¤39

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FASHION FLAIR Dress – Aftershock £250 Bracelets – Aftershock £32 each Ring – Aftershock £35 Shoes – Model’s own

Aftershock Ocean Village, Gibraltar Tel. + 350 200 60100 Agent Provocateur Muelle Ribero, Puerto Banús Tel. 952 810 171 Elle Morgan Laguna Village Tel. 647 869 831 Helyjo C/ Las Malvas, Nueva Andalucía Tel. 952 811 734 Nina B C/ Las Malvas, Nueva Andalucía Tel. 952 907 020 Twist C.C. La Colonia, San Pedro Tel. 952 781 493 68

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HEALTH & FITNESS Celebrity shape-up with

Nicki Waterman TOP TRAINER TO THE STARS OFFERS USEFUL ADVICE FOR A HEALTHIER AND FITTER LIFESTYLE – AND VALUABLE TIPS TO LOSE THOSE EXTRA KILOS

NORDIC SLIMMING SECRETS You can lose a stone in six weeks Pickled herring and rye bread – not your typical diet! But new research says it could be the key to keeping those pounds off. Here’s how you can try it, and like it…

ver wondered what’s the secret behind the fab figures of Helena Christensen, Mariella Fostrup and Ulrika Jonsson? According to the latest diet science, it might be their Nordic background. Traditional foods from the Nordic countries – Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – could be just as good for slimmers as the famous Mediterranean diet. Scandinavians have long had one of the lowest obesity rates in Europe. And nutritionists now believe that the natural goodness of their local fare – foods such as low-fat dairy, cod,

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red meat, berries and rye bread – is their secret weapon. Add to this a culinary culture that favours smaller portions and an active lifestyle and it become clear why, as well as being slimmer, people from these countries have one of the longest life expectancies. In fact, according to recent figures, Scandinavians live longer than most other nations in the world – with the average man living to 79 years and the average woman making it to 83.

Why it works The Nordic Diet is a traditional high-protein diet, but it focuses on lean red meat and fish. It’s also incredibly high in fruit and vegetables, rich in antioxidants. According to Professor Astrup from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, “There is increasing evidence that the fat in meat is not as unhealthy as we have been led to believe. The protein content of low-fat dairy products, healthy fish and lean beef is very beneficial if you want to feel full for fewer calories. To maintain a healthy body weight, these parts of the diet should not be excluded.” In a study of 250 men and women last year, Professor Astrup found that protein’s ability to make us feel fuller for longer and speed up the metabolism meant that a high-protein diet was actually more effective in helping slimmers keep the weight off than the popular GI Diet.

Make mine a smorgasbord! As well as incorporating the right foods, the Scandinavian style of eating is also important. They eat little and often, grazing on small portions of food throughout the day. For instance, there’s the famous Swedish smorgasbord – a platter consisting of lots of different foods to share, including smoked fish, rye crispbreads, pickled vegetables, cheeses, hard-boiled eggs and cold potato slices. Because it’s a social dish people pick at it slowly and often only eat until they’re full – rather than stuffing down an entire meal just because it’s sitting in front of them. This means that they tend to consume fewer calories and fat over the course of a day.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

CREDIT: AN INDIVUAL LARGE COOKIE FROM A COFFEE SHOP (425 CALORIES) = DEBIT: 45 MINUTES OF PADDLE TENNIS

THE NORDIC FOOD RULES Why: It’s full of iron and provides long-lasting energy, plus game meats like duck or venison tend to be lower in fat because the animals lived wild and had the chance to run around.

Why: Although olive oil is healthy, it has to be imported whereas rapeseed oil can be grown in northern countries including the UK. Plus the cold-pressed variety of rapeseed oil is even lower in saturated fat than olive oil and more rich in omega-3s. Use for stir-fries and salad dressings.

4. Swap normal bread for rye bread Why: Some people find wheat makes them feel bloated, but rye bread rarely has this effect. And, because it uses the whole grain, rye bread is packed with slow-digesting fibre and won’t cause the sharp rises in blood sugar that create food cravings.

5. Stock up on berries, especially blueberries Why: Numerous studies have found that berries, a Nordic staple, are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that help prevent disease and premature ageing.

6. Have a daily portion of leafy green veg Why: Brussels sprouts, cabbage and kale are all packed with B vitamins and disease-fighting antioxidants.

7. Eat little and often Why: Big meals can slow down your metabolism, while studies show grazing keeps it ticking over, meaning your body burns off calories more effectively – so fewer are stored as fat.

WHAT’S NEW

CHOCOLATE FOR STRONG BONES

2. Swap chicken for fish

3. Switch olive oil for rapeseed oil

New research suggests that Quorn may help to keep you feeling particularly full because of the fibre it contains. It is low-fat, full of protein and gives you selenium for strong immunity and fertility.

Kingsmill 50/50 bread… It looks white but contains wholegrain so that two slices give you half your wholegrain needs for the whole day.

1. Eat lean red meat, especially game

Why: White fish such as cod and haddock are low in fat and contain energy-providing B vitamins and minerals. And oily fish such as salmon and herring are rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fats, which studies show can help with weight loss. Eat at least two or three portions a week.

DID YOU KNOW?

Super-slim Scandinavian stars True to her roots, Ulrika Jonsson, who has a great figure at 41 and with four children, demonstrated her love for wholesome Swedish fare by cooking a traditional fish dish when she appeared on Celebrity Masterchef. Danish supermodel Helena Christensen, 40, claims she never denies herself. “I eat more than anyone I know. I’m obsessed! Food takes up about 75 per cent of my brain. I eat like a pig. I’m super-lucky with my metabolism and genes.”

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED I’d love to hear from you, so email me your questions, tips and diet success stories to me at editorial@societylivingmagazine.com

Ellactiva chocolate squares each provide 400 milligrams of bone-building calcium. With just 20 calories each, you can afford to eat two a day, which provide 100 per cent of your calcium needs (www.ellactiva.co.uk).

FACT OR FICTION? Eating late at night makes you fat… Fiction: This myth has been part of dieting folklore for years, but there’s no evidence for it at all. A lot of people believe that food eaten late at night won’t be burnt off because we don’t follow it with any activity. But the body doesn’t register what time of day it is – it’s the total amount eaten over a 24hour period that actually counts. Recent research from the Dunn Nutrition Centre in Cambridge backs this up. In a study, women who ate the majority of their calories in the evening stored no more fat than those who ate most of their intake at lunch.

Our first question: “I have a big appetite, so diets with tiny servings don’t work for me. How can I slim and not eat like a bird?”

Nicki says: “You need high-volume foods that are low in calories – you can eat bigger portions but still consume fewer calories. Opt for low-fat meals, and add fruit and veg to bulk it out. A bowl of bran flakes looks bigger with grated apple. A 400 gram/14 ounce bowl of chicken and vegetable soup has 188 calories, compared with a 200 gram/7 ounce bowl of creamy chicken soup with 200 calories. A 300/10 ounce gram bowl of pasta and chopped tomatoes, plus a salad, has 300 calories – versus a samesize bowl of macaroni cheese with 500 calories. Best of luck and please let me know how you get on.”

AND FINALLY…

Eating a grapefruit before a meal appears to help you to eat less in the meal itself. This could, say scientists, be down to grapefruit helping to control blood sugar levels and taking the edge off your hunger. For more information on losing weight and keeping active, check out: www.nickiwaterman.com societyliving

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LATEST TRENDS

health&beauty TOP NEW RANGES, TREATMENTS AND NEWS FROM THE WORLD OF MAKEUP, SKINCARE AND FRAGRANCE COMPILED BY NICOLA MCGEORGE

THE TOOLS OF BEAUTY I do realise that we are in a recession at the moment and nobody is wanting to spend a lot on makeup. I mean, come on: who can justify a ¤30 mascara which will just dry out in three months? However, I do highly recommend investing in makeup brushes. Not only will they give you a professional finish, but as long as you look after them they will last forever. Here is my pick of the bunch.

THE BODY SHOP

CONCEALER BRUSH

THE SPONGE

THE FOUNDATION BRUSH

Everyone has their own personal choice for which tool they prefer to use when applying foundation. I do love the effect of a foundation brush when applied by other people, but I just cannot get to grips with it. No matter what I try, I always go back to a sponge. I can imagine all the makeup artists will be going through the roof now. Yes, I know it uses up more product than a brush and it is not as hygienic, but everyone has a preference. I have tried many different sponges, but the best by far is The Body Shop’s and they are so reasonably priced. For the best effect use it damp. www.thebodyshop.com

For those of you who haven’t heard of her, Paula Dorf is currently one of New York’s most sought-after makeup artists in television, film and music. Her outstanding products are used by makeup artists all around the world. Paula’s foundation brush is simply the best out there. Why? It’s a good size, has a nicely tapered head, and feels gentle on the skin. When using, apply a small amount of foundation around the nose and then blend upwards towards the hairline. Apply all over or only where needed. www.pauladorf.com

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Concealer should be applied after foundation. I like the Nars version as it smoothes concealer over wide areas and hard-to-reach places for natural, flawless skin. It also allows for sheer or dense coverage. Try not to drag too much on the delicate under-eye area. www.narscosmetics.com (or El Corte Inglés)

BRONZING BRUSH To avoid the WAG look (orangey streaks) you want a brush with a wide head. Nars’s Bronzing Brush blends bronzer over the face and buffs the skin for a natural finish. www.narscosmetics.com (or El Corte Inglés)

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LATEST TRENDS

THE EYE SHADOW BRUSH Benefits Talent Brush is specifically designed to allow you to shade, contour and achieve precision lining all in one. It works perfectly with the crease-resistant cream shadow/liners. Use the flat side for shadow application and the tip for lining eyes www.BenefitCosmetics.co.uk (or El Corte Inglés)

THE KABUKI POWDER BRUSH

“Brushes are necessary for perfect blending, but I still like to use my fingers to finish blending.” – François Nars

TIP: Instead of wasting money on brush cleaners just clean your brushes regularly with a mild shampoo or your cleanser, and dry flat on a towel.

This is one serious multi-tasking brush. Alison Raffaele’s Faux Chinchilla Kabuki Powder Brush is super soft and can be used on all powders. Blush, bronzer, mineral… you name it. If you have been struggling with mineral makeup this brush might just change all that. Finish by buffing your makeup at the end of application www.alisonraffaele.com

THE ULTIMATE TWEEZERS Yes, we all already know I have a thing with eyebrows, so it’s obvious I would be including tweezers. Well, Tweezerman’s are the Holy Grail: they are so far ahead of the rest they might as well be in a league of their own. Available in a variety of colours and patterns… there are even Special Edition Swarovski Crystal bejewelled tweezers. Well, who said tweezing shouldn’t be glamorous? The Slant Tweezers are a “Best of Beauty” winner chosen by Allure editors for the eighth year in a row. They grab even the finest hair every time, even those annoying in-growns. www.tweezerman.com

THE BROW BRUSH Now that you have plucked them to perfection, brush your brows into place with some eyebrow gel and then use Benefit’s Hard Angle Brush to fill in gaps and add definition. You can fill in any sparse areas with short, quick strokes. www.BenefitCosmetics.co.uk (or El Corte Inglés)

THE EYELINER BRUSH One thing that most women find hard to achieve is flawless top eyeliner. I find it helps to put my elbow on a hard, flat surface, then use Paula Dorf’s finely pointed eyeliner brush to apply a precise, clear line like a pro. Clear up any mistakes with a cotton bud dipped in eye makeup remover. www.pauladorf.com

THE FANTAIL BRUSH As summer is nearly here, a touch of shimmer to your makeup always goes down a treat. Use Benefits Fantail Brush to get just a hint of shimmer on your skin. It’s also handy for clearing your skin of any excess make-up.

TIP: For the false eyelash effect, heat eyelash curlers with a hairdryer (Shu Uemura have a cult following). Clamp on eyelashes for 10 seconds, add mascara and then repeat. societyliving

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TASTES OF SPAIN

The magnificent month of May WITH ANOTHER GLORIOUS SUMMER AHEAD OF US, GILLAINE HATHAWAY NOTES THAT THE BEAUTIFUL COLOURS OF MAY WHICH SURROUND US AT THIS TIME OF THE YEAR ALSO APPLY TO THE FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLES AVAILABLE IN LOCAL SHOPS

es, we are going seasonal again using and enjoying peaches, apricots and cherries and, though they are coming to the end of their season, magnificent strawberries. Lemons also leave us over the summer months, but avocados are just beginning their six-month season. And it is a great month for vegetables, with so many at their best. These include tomatoes, which are in season most of the year but are not at their best from July to September. So letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enjoy those versatile, bright-red cooking jewels while they are with us. We all use tomatoes in salads, but have you ever tried this Spanish classic of cream of tomato soup? It is so simple and easy to prepare and makes a great change from gazpacho. The following recipe uses oregano, but you can substitute fresh basil leaves instead.

Crema de tomate (serves 4) Ingredients: 1 kilo ripe tomatoes 2 cloves garlic, peeled 2 tablespoons wine vinegar 1 tablespoon chopped oregano salt and pepper to taste Peel and remove any core from the tomatoes, then chop them and place in the food processor. Add the garlic, wine vinegar and oregano and liquidise.

Add the salt and pepper to taste, pour into a bowl, cover and leave in the fridge for a minimum of two hours before serving. Sun-dried tomatoes are not only delicious and nutritious but also very trendy and can be used in all sorts of recipes. They are available in the shops but are really easy to make at home and taste so much better. Though traditionally made with tomatoes that are dried in the baking hot sunshine and then bottled in olive oil, this method is just as good. The following recipe will fill a 450 gram glass jam jar but I suggest you fill lots of jars as you will use them time and time again.

Sun-dried tomatoes Ingredients: 2 kilos plump ripe tomatoes plenty of sea salt virgin olive oil Quarter the tomatoes and remove only the seeds and the stalk. Sprinkle sea salt liberally inside the cleaned tomatoes and place skin side down for two hours. Place a wire rack over an oven tray and place the tomatoes, skin side down, and leave overnight to drain. The next day put the rack of tomatoes in the middle of the oven set to 90Âşc and leave for at least four hours. At this point check to see if any tomatoes are dried as some pieces dry quicker than others. Remove any that are and put them in the clean dry jar. Turn all the remaining tomatoes over and return to the oven until they are dry. (TIP: The test to see if the tomatoes are dried is in the touch. They should feel rubbery, not crisp and not juicy. Depending on the oven it can take up to eight hours to dry the tomatoes properly but it is well worth the time.) When all the tomatoes are dry, pack them gently into the glass jar and pour in the virgin olive oil, moving the jar round to get rid of any air bubbles. Make sure that the oil

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covers the tomatoes at the top by at least one centimetre. Ideally you should leave them in the jar for a couple of weeks to enable them to take on the flavour from the oil, but they are ready to eat from day one and once open the jar does not need to be refrigerated. If you wish you can add herbs such as sprigs of basil or rosemary to the jar and you can also make a delicious paste which is great on pasta, stirred into soups and sauces, and on toasted cheese!

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TASTES OF SPAIN Another exceptionally simple soup is made with seasonal cucumbers and avocados. It must be served chilled, which is great at this time of year, as hot it not only curdles but also loses its delicate flavour and velvety texture in the mouth. This soup also deserves to be made with a proper home-made chicken stock.

Chilled cucumber and avocado soup (serves 4 Ingredients: 1 large onion peeled and sliced 2 cucumbers peeled, washed and chopped knob of butter 2 natural yoghurts 2 ripe avocados 1/2 litre chicken stock salt and pepper to taste Soften the onion in butter in a pan until transparent. Add the cucumber and cook over a medium heat for a few minutes. Then pour into a food processor and process. Add the yoghurts, peeled and de-stoned avocados and chicken stock, and process until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator until really cold and check the seasonings before serving. The following tasty chicken delight is an adaptation of a classic Andalucian recipe, using sun-dried tomatoes and its paste. And red and green peppers which are just coming to the end of their season.

Andalucian chicken (serves 4)

Sun-dried tomato paste Ingredients: 1 jar ready-prepared tomatoes 2 cloves garlic and virgin olive oil Put the tomatoes and garlic in the food processor or liquidiser and blend, adding enough olive oil to make a smooth paste. There is an added bonus too, because after using all the tomatoes in the jar the intensely flavoured oil is great as a salad dressing or to cook with.

Ingredients: 2 onions peeled and chopped 2-3 garlic cloves peeled and crushed approx. 4 tablespoons olive oil 2 large red and 2 large green peppers, de-seeded and sliced 15 cm piece of chorizo sausage, cut into thick slices 200 gr long grain rice 4 chicken legs and 4 thighs 2 oranges cut into segments with skin left on large glass white wine made up to 400 cc of liquid with chicken stock handful of black olives 1/2 handful sun-dried tomatoes good squeeze of tomato paste 1 heaped dessertspoon paprika Preheat the oven to medium and in a large frying pan soften the onion in the olive oil until transparent. Then add the garlic and peppers and cook until soft and the juices begin to run into the pan. Add the chorizo, sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Spread the rice over the base of a large shallow oven-proof dish or 25-centimetre casserole and pour over the contents from the frying pan.

Without cleaning the frying pan add the chicken, turning it over to brown on all sides, then add the paprika and stir well. Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the rice and vegetables like the spokes of a wheel, and place the orange segments between and press the olives into any of the remaining spaces. Pour over the stock and wine mixture, cover tightly with foil and cook in the oven for two and a half hours to allow all the juice to soak into the rice. Check occasionally, in case you need to add a little more liquid, and remove the foil for the last 20 minutes to allow the chicken to golden. This dish is great served with a green seasonal salad. Time now to enjoy a seasonal dessert of peaches! When buying peaches remember that they spoil quickly, so it is best to buy only what you are going to use. Look for firm-fleshed peaches without bruises and avoid any with green areas, as they were picked too early and will never be as sweet as youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like. Store hard, unripe peaches at room temperature until soft, but keep ripe ones in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to five days. Nothing preserves a fruitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural nutrients, shape and colour like micro-poaching. Try this recipe with peaches and you will be repeating it with other fruits.

Poached peaches (serves 4 Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of peach or other fruitflavoured liqueur 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon juice few drops of vanilla essence 4 ripe peaches halved and pitted Mix the liqueur, lemon juice and vanilla and place in a flat, microwave-proof, two-kilo casserole. Arrange the peaches skin side down in the casserole. Cover with a lid or plastic food wrap, which needs to be spiked in several places, and microwave at 100 per cent power for two minutes. Then turn peaches over, re-cover and cook for a further few minutes at 100 per cent power until tender. Remove from the microwave and leave to stand, uncovered, for three minutes. Slip the skins off and serve warm or chilled with the casserole juices poured over the peaches. societyliving

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CHEF’S SELECTION

IN THE KITCHEN with Jean Christophe Novelli WORDS JESSICA WHITE PHOTOS JOHNNY GATES

ast month Jean Christophe Novelli personally cooked me banana tatin. Well, that’s the story I will be telling all my friends back in England. In fact, I had been invited to the press launch of his new restaurant in Hotel Lorcrimar, Novelli’s. A food lover and avid watcher of almost every cookery programme on television, I was very familiar with Jean Christophe Novelli and I was immensely looking forward to a press demonstration by the celebrity chef. Heading up the team in the kitchen at the new restaurant is Wesley Smalley, who has worked with Jean for over seven years, while front of house is his brother Anthony, who he last worked with over 10 years ago at his Michelin-starred London restaurant, Maison Novelli. The new Marbella restaurant is sleek and simplistic, and a striking blend of colour with black, red and white softened with velvet and soft leather. It will be simplistic, original and authentic, with salmon smoked onsite and bread specially made in the kitchen. Famous for his modern European style, the menu, he tells us, will feature fresh seasonal produce sourced locally and of the highest quality. Listening to him talk about food and his cooking you can tell how much he loves to produce dishes that excite and entertain diners. He says that to him cooking is a way of 80

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expressing himself and that you should use your instincts when it comes to cooking; a dish can be artistic or simplistic but will ultimately reflect the person who made it. When thinking of a dish, he says, there are many parts to consider: its name, the ideas that you have when looking at the ingredients, the concept behind the dish – and with these aspects resolved you can impress anyone. Going back to the dish he prepared for us all, the banana tatin, I was definitely ready for a cooking lesson from one of the world’s top chefs. Not one for making creations in the kitchen, I was ready to learn some tricks of the trade and impress friends and family with my knowledge of how to make a sumptuous dish. He started by showing us how to make the perfect caramel. Everything can affect how your caramel is made: the temperature of the air, the type of sugar and much more. Cubed sugar is apparently better to use than loose sugar, as the loose variety has more dust in it and so ultimately more bacteria. Once the caramel is made you can use and re-use it over and over again. So, place some caramel into your cooking dish; then, if you wish, add cinnamon, star anis, vanilla or any spice of your choice. Choose your fruit, in this case banana, and place on top of the caramel. Puff pastry is placed on

top of this, then carefully ensure all the fruit is covered so there is no air between the fruit and pastry. Put in the fridge to keep cool, then place in the oven when needed. What fruit you use will affect the cooking time. Jean Christophe used bananas, which take about 12 minutes in the oven, but strawberries, he informs us, will only take about five minutes. Alternatively, if you do not want to serve straight away, you can put it into the freezer to keep – however, when doing this add 10 minutes of cooking time in the oven. Prepare this dish for friends at home or go to the new restaurant and taste all their sumptuous dishes, including this tasty and indulgent dessert.

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Novelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant Hotel Lorcrimar Tel. 952 906 105 www.hotel-lorcrimar.com

FINE DINING

LA PAPPARDELLA

Delectable flavours of Italy WORDS JESSICA WHITE PHOTOS DAVID TOMS

ituated in one of the most luxurious commercial centres on the Coast, La Pappardella Sul Mare is the newest restaurant in the Balinese-style setting of Laguna Village. Owners Franco and Angelo have had much success with La Pappardella di Estepona in Estepona Port, which many readers will be familiar with, and have now opened another restaurant on the Coast in this stylish setting. Overlooking the pool and beach, this trendy restaurant offers a taste of Italy with chef Antonio in the kitchen making delicious creations, and pizza chefs Peppe and Nello in the main restaurant, enabling diners to watch their pizzas being made. Diners can enjoy a selection of antipasti including traditional Italian salad of buffalo mozzarella and slices of fresh tomatoes caressed with extra virgin oil and fresh basil, carpaccio of beef, and gamberetti alla diavola – the Italian version of pil-pil. They can also choose from a very wide variety of pasta including tortellini, cannelloni, gnocchi, penne, fettuccini, spaghetti and pappardelle – clearly a pasta lover’s dream. For the secondi piatti, diners can indulge in fresh fish such as swordfish and prawns, steak, veal and medallions of beef among other delights. Pizza is obviously what most Italian restaurants are known for and La Pappardella Sul Mare is no exception. The choice of pizzas ranges from the traditional margherita and funghi to the more adventurous quattro stagioni and capricciosa, and all are made with San Marzano tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil from the olive groves of southern Italy and Italian flour. Diners are then invited to try one of a selection of Italian desserts including profiteroles that melt in your mouth and are the best I have ever tasted. The superb dishes we were lucky to try included a specially made pizza volcano – drizzled with olive oil, stuffed with mozzarella and a accompanied by a tomato sauce – which tasted delightfully fresh and was not as heavy as some pizzas can be. This was followed by pappardelle pasta with tomato sauce and ricotta and tortellini stuffed with ricotta and spinach in a creamy sauce. I have never been a lover of stuffed pasta but the tortellini was so tasty that I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the restaurant. The restaurant’s relaxed yet trendy atmosphere makes it the perfect place to go for lunch or dinner, listening to the waves and enjoying the luxurious setting. Diners can indulge in some fine Italian wine or pre-dinner drinks in the outside seating area before enjoying a sumptuous Italian meal. 82

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La Pappardella Sul Mare Laguna Village, Estepona Tel. 952 807 354

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FINE DINING

BECKITT’S

Creative cuisine in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere WORDS SAM JONES

PHOTOS DAVID TOMS

f your measure of a good restaurant is gauged by its popularity and the satisfaction of its customers, then Beckitt’s in central Marbella is a must for its superb food and wine, attractive surroundings and excellent service. Owned by Marc and Lynn Quinlan – both well-known faces on Marbella and Ireland’s social scene – the restaurant has become one of the Coast’s most established places to dine since its arrival six years ago. Not only extremely popular with a large returning Irish and international clientele (both residents and visitors), Beckitt’s is also a favoured spot of celebrities and stars including Sir Alan Sugar, actor Liam Neeson, members of Westlife and top celebrity chef Antony Worrall Thompson. So, what’s behind this winning formula which has become synonymous with the name Beckitt’s? A good proportion of the restaurant’s success has to be attributed to the fabulous front of house and impeccable yet friendly service. Head waiter Steve will talk you through the menu and recommend something from the excellent selection of wines (something he knows a thing or two about!). Even when the restaurant is at its busiest (reservations come recommended, especially at weekends), rest assured you’ll be in capable hands and the team will do their utmost to make your evening as enjoyable as possible. Beckitt’s is a family-friendly restaurant and recently introduced an early bird menu (served daily from 6.30pm) which is going down particularly well. The attractive terrace also makes it a great place for al fresco dining, while the cosmopolitan atmosphere will appeal to late night diners who can savour an evening with superb hospitality in a relaxed atmosphere. 84

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The restaurant has the feel of an international brasserie with a first rate menu which combines an extensive à la carte and regularly changing seasonal specials, and is inspired by a range of worldly flavours. My colleague and I were treated to an evening at Beckitt’s which genuinely did not disappoint. A pre-dinner drink at the bar was accompanied by a delicious appetiser of a mini seafood chowder finished with a hint of Pernod and cream. If was near impossible to choose from the list of mouth-watering starters so we settled on two to share: a light tempura of lemon sole served with wok-fried greens and finished with a sweet chilli and coriander sauce; and pan-fried king scallops served with buttered spinach, snow peas and a chive beurre blanc. Both were complemented perfectly by Steve’s recommendation of a Finca de la Colina sauvignon blanc which was named winner at the Madrid Wine Fair and comes from Spain’s prominent Verdejo Rueda region. The generous list of main courses includes a good combination of succulent meat and fresh fish dishes so we opted for one of each, both of which were a complete delight: panfried sea bass with a mild curry and mussel sauce served on a bed of champ; and a delicious belly of pork with crispy crackling on a bed of champ and buttered cabbage, served with a cider sauce. If you can manage something from the list of creative desserts, I’d definitely recommend the light and delicate shortcake with strawberries, crème anglaise and vanilla ice cream. But, if you are feeling a little over-indulged, why not round off the Beckitt’s experience with a fine whiskey, liqueur or expertly prepared Irish coffee?

Beckitt’s C/ Camilo José Cela, 4 Marbella Tel. 952 868 898/671 735 020 www.beckittsmarbella.com Open daily from 6.30pm

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ESTEPONA

SAN PEDRO

P U E R TO B A N U S

s t n a r u a t s e R

STARZ MARBELLA Location: C.C. Centroplaza Tel: 952 816 313 www.starzmarbella.com International food with all-day breakfast and extensive lunch menu. Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am–5pm. Free wifi.

TERRA SANA Location: near Andalucía Plaza Tel. 952 906 205 The in place to be seen. Renowned for its tasty and healthy dishes.

Guide to fine dining

EVITA BY BUENOS AIRES

Location: Avda. del Prado FROM TRADITIONAL MEDITERRANEAN TO A WIDE SELECTION OF INTERNATIONAL CUISINE Tel. 952 929 620 Superb Argentinean cuisine. Friendly and efficient service. SAN ROQUE International Italian Golf views on a beautiful terrace. Open every night from TIKITANO MACCHERONI Oriental 7.30pm onwards. Location: New Golden Mile Location: Jardines del Puerto

KAMAKURA Location: golf resort Tel. 956 646 575 Considered one of the finest Japanese restaurants in Spain.

SOTOGRANDE International KE BAR Location: Frontline port Tel. 956 793 333 Chic venue ideal for watching the world pass by with snacks and full meals.

FLAHERTY’S Location: Frontline port Tel. 956 790 390 Lively Irish bar and restaurant with well-priced snacks and full dishes – fun ambience and live music evenings.

CASARES International SCHILO Location: Ctra. de Casares Tel. 952 937 800 www.fincacortesin.com Gourmet Asian-fusion cuisine created by world-class chef Schilo Van Corvorden at the Finca Cortesin hotel and golf resort. Superb service, elegant setting and excellent wine list.

WEST OF SAN PEDRO Indian ARBAAZ Location: C.C. Guadalmina Tel. 952 896 508 Excellent Indian cuisine from an extensive menu of creative dishes. Buffet lunch served daily, sit in or take-away in the evening. Delivery also available. 86

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Tel. 952 792 820 / 690 989 568 www.tikitano.net Wonderful beachfront location with stunning views and large decked terrace. Beautifully presented international cuisine and live music every weekend. Open for lunch and dinner daily.

Tel. 951 703 175 Fashionable pizzeria serving authentic Italian specialities. Great meeting spot and venue for birthdays or private parties. Harley Davidson parties every Thursday. Takeaway available. Open every night from 8pm.

Italian

Oriental

LA PAPPARDELLA

THAI GALLERY

Location: Laguna Village Tel. 952 807 354 Popular Italian restaurant group which made its mark in London and Puerto Banús. Extensive list of dishes made using finest Italian ingredients, and great service. A fine dining experience in chic, luxurious surroundings.

Location: Puerta de Banús Tel. 952 818 392 Creative cuisine with professional service and lively atmosphere. Open daily for dinner.

BENAHAVIS International TABERNA DEL ALABADERO Location: Crta. de Ronda Km. 167 Tel. 952 812 794 www.alabaderoresort.com Creative inexpensive cuisine, in elegant surroundings including stunning garden setting .

AMANHAVIS Location: Benahavis Tel. 952 856 026 Creative home cooking in a cosy environment. Open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday.

PUERTO BANÚS French LENÔTRE Location: Avda. José Banús Tel. 952 908 380 Tea-room, trendy bakery and catering “boutique”.

NAGA THAI Location: Centro Comercial Cristamar Tel. 952 815 319 Wide range of exquisite Thai dishes enjoyed in stylish surroundings. Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Italian REGINA’S Location: near Andalucía Plaza Tel. 952 814 529 Elegant surroundings with highquality Italian dishes ranging from traditional to creative. Open for dinner, Monday to Saturday.

YANX CAFÉ Location: Centro Plaza Tel. 952 818 861 www.cafeyanx.com A prized location and lively atmosphere make this a great choice all-round. Serving delicious American dishes including succulent steaks and burgers, fresh salads, breakfasts, wraps and sandwiches, and an irresistible choice of starters.

Oriental THAI BANGKOK

Indian NUEVA ANDALUCÍA International

Location: Plaza de Las Orquídeas Tel. 952 813 603 Traditional Thai and Asian cuisine made from the freshest ingredients. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

MAGNA CAFÉ

GOLDEN M ILE Oriental

Location: Magna Marbella Golf, Tel. 952 929 578 www.magnacafe.com Exquisite cuisine in stunning surroundings. Lively atmosphere, bar and large terrace with breathtaking views.

EL GIRASOL Location: Avda. del Prado Tel. 952 813 859 Superb service and excellent food from award-winning chefs Michel and Paul. Attractive surroundings and pleasant patio terrace overlooking golf valley. Open every evening for dinner.

SUKHOTHAI Location: Marbella Mar Tel. 952 770 550 Fabulous Thai cuisine, with intimate surroundings and cosmopolitan décor.

TAI PAN Location: Puente Romano Tel. 952 777 893 Enjoy cocktails at Polynesian bar before sampling oriental cuisine in beautiful surroundings.

N U E VA A N D A L U C I A

MARBELLA

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FUENGIROLA

BENALMADENA

s t n a r u a Rest

SUSHI DES ARTISTES

GARUM

Location: opp. Marbella Club Tel. 952 857 403 / 671 606 684 Superb cuisine prepared by seven creative Japanese chefs.

Location: Paseo Marítimo Tel. 952 858 858 www.garummarbella.com Great for drinks, snacks and à la carte dining. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner Open seven days.

International VILLA TIBERIO Tel. 952 771 799 Highly popular restaurant set within stylish surroundings, al fresco at its best.

VICTOR’S BEACH

THE ORANGE TREE Location: Orange Square Tel. 952 924 613 / 680 224 457 Creative contemporary cuisine, with innovative new menu every six weeks. Open daily for dinner from 6.30 till late; early evening menu until 8pm.

Location: El Ancon Playa Tel. 639 553 088 A Costa del Sol institution, popular with visiting celebrities BECKITT’S Location: C/ Camilo José Cela and residents alike. Tel. 952 868 898 SUITE www.beckittsmarbella.com Location: Hotel Puente Romano Creative cuisine and fine wines Tel. 952 820 900 in a relaxed and friendly Stunning restaurant and lounge atmosphere. Excellent service. serving superb Moroccan and Open daily for dinner from Mediterranean cuisine in 6.30pm with “early bird menu”; luxurious surroundings. Open seasonal specials and full à la Thursday-Saturday from 9pm. carte.

Italian TERRAZA DUAL Location: Marbella Mar Tel. 952 925 250 www.terrazadual.com Great service and attractive surroundings. Home-made dishes. Take away also available.

BOULEVARD Location: Paseo Marítimo Tel. 952 860 583 The perfect combination of dinner and show, with excellent international cuisine in a modern ambience.

Italian

DA BRUNO

ZAFFERANO

Location: (also San Pedro, Marbella and Cabopino) Tel. 952 857 521 Fresh and fabulous Italian food served in lively surroundings. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Location: Calle Gloria 12 Tel. 952 863 125 Beautiful renovated old town house with modern Italian cuisine in elegant surroundings. Excellent service and presentation.

BAYRES Location: opp. Marbella Club Tel. 952 863 922 Authentic Argentinean cuisine including meat specialities fresh from the grill. Attractive décor, including cocktail bar.

DA PINO

MARBELLA

Location: Paseo Marítimo Tel. 952 824 217 www.dapino.com Spacious setting overlooking the beach, with friendly service and excellent range of traditional and creative Italian dishes.

International

CASA NOSTRA

Location: C/ Camilo José Cela Tel. 952 861 108 Location: Plaza Altamirano Local dining institution since Tel. 952 858 868 1988, with extensive selection Old converted house provides of superb Italian cuisine as well perfect atmosphere for cuisine as international dishes. with a difference.

ZOZOÏ

SANTIAGO Location: Paseo Marítimo Tel. 952 770 078 www.restaurantesantiago.com Considered the “dean” of Marbella restaurants, specialising in fish and seafood from throughout Spain as well as wide range of international dishes.

French

CASANIS Location: Calle Ancha 8 Tel. 952 900 450 Exquisite bistro serving menu del día as well as à la carte, aperitifs and cocktails. Open Monday to Saturday for dinner.

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ESTEPONA

SAN PEDRO

P U E R TO B A N U S

ROAD HOUSE PONDEROSA MESON BRAVO Location: Opp. Palacio Beatriz Hotel Tel. 951 261 558 Excellent steaks, barbecue specials, pizzas and other international dishes in sociable, family-friendly restaurant/bar, with pool table and TV screens for sports lovers.

THE TERRACE

Location: C/ Francisco Cano Tel. 952 585 417 Wide selection of traditional Spanish and original international cuisine for all tastes.

Oriental MAKATI TEPPANYAKI Location: Edif. River Playa Tel. 952 580 640 www.restaurantemakati.com Superb Japanese cuisine in chic surroundings with excellent service – moderately priced but ample dishes.

Location: Golf Hotel Tamisa Tel. 952 585 988 www.hoteltamisagolf.com Stunning views across Mijas Golf. Extensive à la carte and moderately priced menu of the BENALMÁDENA week. Specialities include chateaubriand baked in salt and Indian roast suckling pig (24 hours notice). Ideal for business NIRVANA meetings, weddings, events, Location: Altos de Higueron fashion shows. Tel. 952 568 564 FUENGIROLA Wide selection of excellent, moderately priced Indian International cuisine in friendly atmosphere.

PUEBLO LÓPEZ Location: off C/ Valencia Tel. 952 471 929 Well-established, family-run restaurant in charming Pueblo López cobbled courtyard.

EAST OF MARBELLA International FUSION Location: Entrance of Urb. El Rosario Tel. 952 839 910 www.fusion.es Comfort food with a modern twist. Innovative dishes served from early morning to late at night. Open every day.

BONO’S BEACH Location: Costabella beachside Tel. 952 839 236 www.bonosbeach.com Fine cuisine in a stunning location on one of the most beautiful beaches in Marbella.

SLOANE’S Location: Urb. Elviria Tel. 952 835 560 Described as ‘‘small but perfectly formed’’ ... attractive restaurant with delectable menu and outside terrace.

THE BEACH HOUSE Location: frontline beach Elviria Tel. 952 839 458 www.thebeachhousemarbella.com Idyllic location by the sea with stunning sunsets over one of the Coast’s best beaches. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

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BYBLOS

LOS BOLICHES

Location: Elviria Vegetarian Tel: 952 836 208 Traditional Lebanese cuisine VEGETALIA including a wide variety of Location: C/ Santa Isabel 8 vegetarian dishes. Open for lunch and dinner 12pm until late. Tel. 952 586 031 www.restaurantevegetalia.com Salad buffet with hot dishes of Oriental the day at lunchtime; a la carte selection in the evenings, fresh THAI-CHINA juices and homemade desserts. Location: Urb. Calahonda Closed Sundays and Mondays. Tel. 952 939 017 Wide-ranging selection of traditional and creative Thai and Oriental Chinese cuisine in cosy surroundings with friendly staff. THAI LANNA Location: C/ Francisco Cano Tel. 952 587 139Exquisite MIJAS COSTA selection of well-presented Thai dishes in attractive International ambience, with friendly and attentive service. MIJAS PLAYA Location: La Cala seafront International Tel. 952 493 749 Popular restaurant overlooking the sea, with entertainment and HAPPY DAYS dancing every evening. Superb Location: Edif. Sierra Mijas Tel. 952 664 004 food in elegant surroundings. Superb, well-priced Danishstyle dishes, including VALPARAISO traditional open sandwiches. Location: Ctra de Mijas Tel. 952 485 996 Excellent Italian and international Spanish cuisine served in charming and LA GAMBA DORADA elegant surroundings. Ideal venue Location: Avda. Jesús Cautivo for special occasions. Tel. 952 477 267 The best seafood in town, in pristine surroundings with professional and friendly service.

LA CARIHUELA Spanish RÍAS DE GALICIA Location: Paseo Marítimo Tel. 952 385 974 / 629 535 887 www.riasdegalicia.es Basque and Galician cuisine in frontline beach setting. Extensive à la carte selection and moderately priced menu del día .

EL BOTIJO Location: C/Párroco D. Antonio Tel. 952 058 790 Specialising in meat dishes – including exquisite leg of lamb and grilled steaks – but also with extensive range of fish and vegetable dishes in traditional “meson” surroundings with large terrace for al fresco dining.

BAR PLAYA Location: C/ Bulto Tel. 952 386 235 Cosy, family-run establishment specialising in home-style fish and seafood dishes, and varied tapas… excellent quality and moderately priced.

N U E VA A N D A L U C I A

MARBELLA

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SL Exclusive May Alcazabanew

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EXCLUSIVE LIVING

Living the Mediterranean dream

he Alcazaba story began 30 years ago, with a family of developers joining forces to create an “authentic” Mediterranean lifestyle for homebuyers. Two years ago, their efforts received official recognition, when La Alcazaba won the Architectural Heritage Prize for Urbanisations of Environmental Interest. Now, Alcazaba Hills moves the developers’ concept of “offering wide open spaces and a high level of privacy that come sociably together in unrivalled leisure facilities” to a fascinating new level. In short, the objective is to allow people to live their dreams, every day. The low-density development weaves into the countryside in Casares municipality, just four kilometres from Estepona and two kilometres from the beach… with contemporary architecture surrounded by an exotic landscape of meandering pathways and 80,000 square metres of lush gardens. Extending over 30 hectares, Alcazaba Hills Resort includes 15 pools and wellness centre, spa and gym, children’s playground, mini-golf and 90

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other facilities. The development itself comprises 406 residential units divided into various phases. The first phase consists of 100 two and three bedroom apartments distributed in 10 low-rise buildings, like an oasis in the heart of the project. The buildings are all first-line to the gardens, separated by embankments and landscaping, sited to view the sub-tropical gardens and pools, have south-facing aspects and offer sea views. The first part of the complex under construction is due to be finished this summer (the show flats have been created by Dutch interior designer Erwin Hamming Schott); while the Alcazaba Hills Invitational Golf Tournament is scheduled for August at Estepona Golf. Prices start at ¤298,000 for apartments and ¤435,000 for penthouses; pre-arranged mortgages are in place; and 100 per cent financing is possible for certain units. For more information contact: Inge Alcazaba Hills Resort Tel. 952 937 693 www.alcazabahills.com

SL Exclusive May Alcazaba

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NEWS UPDATE

Noticeboard

ROUND-UP OF BUSINESS, CHARITY, CULTURAL AND OTHER GENERAL NEWS FROM THE COSTA DEL SOL AND ELSEWHERE IN SPAIN

WORLD MATCH PLAY TOP EUROPEAN TOUR EVENT AT FINCA CORTESÍN The Costa del Sol might have lost the Volvo Masters after last year’s final edition at Valderrama, but golf fans will be well compensated this autumn when the venerable World Match Play moves to Spain, specifically the stunning new course at Finca Cortesín. The move, from Wentworth (where Ernie Els won the last Match Play title in 2007 – it was not held in

2008), coincides with a change of format (round-robin over the first two days followed by the weekend semi-finals and final) and qualifying, with a more cosmopolitan field of the 16 of the topranked international players from all five continents. The ¤3,350,000 championship is scheduled for 29 October to 1 November. More information: www.fincacortesin.com

BUDDHA BEACH BACK FOR A SIZZLING SUMMER Live music will return to Buddha Beach this summer when international soul legend Alexander O’Neal performs at an intimate dinner show on July 24. Buddha Beach is also in discussion to bring other international stars over during the summer. Meanwhile, Mel Williams will once again be rocking the beach with his band (the first show is on Sunday May 17); and there will be live DJ events throughout the summer including the popular Sunday Sunset Sessions and Limelight on Thursdays. The expanded restaurant area will be open for evening dining during July and August, and there is a spring set menu during May for ¤18. Another new addition this season, due to open in June, is the Champagne & Seafood Bar; and Buddha Beach now also has a private area for up 100 guests with its own bar. More information: Tel. 952 813 882; www.buddhabeachbanus.com

KING OF THE CASTLE WORLD’S FIRST MMA CELEBRITY FIGHTING MATCH

CUDECA HOSPICE SUPPORT FROM ANTONIO BANDERAS Málaga-born Antonio Banderas and his wife Melanie Griffith have offered to help the Cudeca hospice in Benalmádena raise funds for its benefactor campaign. They have shot videos for the campaign, while also

encouraging the international community living in Málaga province to continue helping Cudeca with its fund-raising. More information: Tel. 952 564 910; www.cudeca.org

The international MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) phenomenon Extreme Brawl is hosting the world’s first celebrity MMA match, part of the fight card at the King of the Castle event in Fuengirola on 30 May. DJ, producer and reality TV star Fran Cosgrove will be stepping into the cage to face So Solid Crew’s Mega Man during the action-packed extravaganza, which will be taking place underneath the stars at Sohail Castle – one of the Coast’s most emblematic landmarks. Tickets and more information: www.extreme-brawl.eu

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NEWS UPDATE FUN OUTDOOR FITNESS BOOT CAMP COMES TO MARBELLA

HOTEL TAMISA GOLF SUPERB VENUE FOR WEDDINGS A wedding feature in the April issue of H! Society Magazine included a photo of Hotel Tamisa Golf confusingly juxtaposed with text about another hotel in the area. The publishers of H! have asked us to apologise for the oversight, and note that,

though not mentioned in the article, Tamisa is also one of the most popular wedding venues on the Coast. More information: Tel 952 585 988; reservas@hoteltamisagolf.com; www.tamisagolf.com

IN BRIEF CHARITY CONCERT: Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol will offer its traditional concert in aid of Concordia at 9pm on 26 May in the Nrta. Sra. de la Encarnación church in Marbella. More information: www.concordiamarbella.com

Boot camps are all the rage at the moment for their exceptional and fast health and fitness benefits, plus they are a great way to get out of the studio or gym and enjoy the fresh air while having fun and exercising. As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to get into the best shape possible, remotivate yourself and re-energise. In addition, Spain is the perfect setting for outdoor fitness, particularly when training in the morning when the sun is not at its maximum strength and the fresh sea air makes the best start to the day. So, why is Boot Camp so effective? Training outside burns more calories. The safe and effective exercises melt away body fat. The sessions combine jogging, sprints, circuits, pilates, free weights, boxing, kettle balls and more. Working in a group pushes you to new higher levels and you will meet people while having fun Lee Skinner of Total Fitness Now is offering twice weekly sessions on Wednesday and Saturday mornings at 10am; four sessions for ¤40 / eight for ¤60. More information: Tel. 675 235 978 / info@totalfitnessnow.com

GALA DINNER: The International High Care de Marbella Hospital will host the traditional Fight Against Cancer Association summer gala dinner on 7 August. More information: www.marbellahighcare.com ART FESTIVAL: Seventy-four artists, photographers, sculptors, ceramicists and digital artists and several galleries will showcase their work at the inaugural Festival Internacional de Arte Marbella from 19 to 21 June. More information: www.festivaldeartemarbella.com ARTS AND CRAFTS: Every Monday an arts and crafts market is held in the village square in Benahavis; open from 11am to 3.30pm, the 30 or so stalls sell a variety of hand-made jewellery, clothing, ceramics, foods, birds and artisan woodcraft and fossils. 94

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SPRING FAIR FASHION SHOW CHARITY LUNCH IN PUERTO BANÚS Your Face Modelling Agency is hosting a charity lunch on Friday 15 May at 12pm to raise awareness and funds for Cudeca (the hospice in Benalmádena for terminally ill cancer patients). The special lunch will take place at the Guadalpin Hotel in Puerto Banús and will include a welcome drink and three-course lunch, followed by a fashion show. It is being held in collaboration with Dr. Kai of the Ocean Clinic. More information: Tel. 952 906 865 628 925 018

GREAT BARGAINS AT F.A.M.A. EVENT The first Foundation for Abandoned and Mistreated Animals (F.A.M.A.) Spring Fair, at Centro Idea on Sunday 17 May from 11am, will have many interesting stands offering great bargains including books, clothes, jewellery, home-made cakes and much more. There will also be refreshments available from the beer tent, a barbecue and tea/coffee, as well as information on the charity and the dogs looking for homes. More information: Tel. 659 102 279 (Max King); www.f-a-m-a.net

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SL LIFESTYLE 09

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‘Stress Free Home Dining’ Freshly prepared by Vanessa Fairley using the finest local ingredients for dinner parties, special occasions and executive conferences in the Marbella area. My dishes vary from colourful canapés to chocolaty desserts which include Spanish and Italain flavours as well as English favourites. I treat each client individually and design a special menu to suit their own tastes. I am happy to cater for various dietary requirements. Minimum 8 people. For free advice telephone:

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IN THE STARS

In the stars ... with Russell Grant April 21st – May 21st

CELEBRITY TAURUS Penelope Cruz Sánchez Born 28 April 1974, in Madrid Winner 2009 Academy Award as best supporting actress (Vicky Cristina Barcelona). Designer and face of her signature collection for Mango (pictured).

Your ideas don’t mesh very well with those of a powerful leader on the 2nd; keep your thoughts to yourself. You’ll have a better opportunity to express your creative side on the 5th when everyone is more receptive to your unique vision. Money talks could be stalled on the 7th; be patient and persistent. A close relationship shows signs of strain on the 9th, mostly because of career matters. Your powers of persuasion will be at an all-time high on the 13th; take this opportunity to garner as many favours as you can. Let friends take you out for a fun evening on the 16th, especially if you’ve had a hard day at work. Be realistic about the constraints of your job on the 17th. A stubborn relative or neighbour may soften after a talk on the 18th. The 20th isn’t good for job interviews; try to schedule them for later in the month. Don’t promise more than you can deliver on the 21st. You could get a cheque for less than you expected on the 24th. Working behind the scenes can be good for your career on the 27th. It will be much easier to assert yourself on the 31st.

GEMINI May 22nd – June 21st It’s no use in trying to twist someone’s arm on the 2nd; they will remain rigid. Spending quality time at home will prove fulfilling on the 5th. Don’t make any important decisions or expensive purchases on the 7th. A health problem demands your attention on the 9th; get a second opinion, if necessary. Keep your thoughts to yourself on the 13th, particularly with regard to financial matters. The 16th is perfect for working behind the scenes on a creative project. Family responsibilities resurface on the 17th, forcing you to stretch your schedule even tighter. Secret talks with a close relative may be necessary on the 18th. Don’t disparage someone’s religious or political beliefs on the 20th. Trust your instincts with regard to an eccentric authority figure on the 21st. Your family may not approve of a new look on the 24th; you’ve got to dress to suit yourself. Stand up to an expert who oversteps his boundaries on the 27th. The 31st is wonderful for solitary pleasures like reading, writing or gardening.

Horoscopes CANCER

LEO

VIRGO

June 22nd – July 23rd

July 24th – August 23rd

August 24th – September 23rd

Resist the urge to try to reform a loved one on the 2nd. Your leadership ability comes in handy on the 5th. Try not to second-guess yourself on the 7th. A creative project may not come out the way you wanted on the 9th; treat this as a learning experience. Run some money-making ideas past a trusted group of friends on the 13th. Planning an overseas trip with a friend is favoured for the 16th. Inflated expectations of a friend could lead to heartache on the 17th. Getting involved with a charitable organisation stimulates you and puts you in contact with some really interesting people on the 18th. Don’t feel pressured into spending the same amount of money as a friend on the 20th. A neighbour or relative could get you interested in a foreign culture on the 21st. You may not get as much money as you expected on the 24th; this is a good time to learn more about budgeting. Taking a seaside break will prove romantic on the 27th. The 31st is ideal for team endeavours of all kinds.

Don’t eat or drink too much on the 2nd, or your work performance will suffer. Your hard work pays off on the 5th. An old friend could get back in touch with you on the 7th. A love affair reaches a critical moment on the 9th; you need to be more appreciative of each other. The 13th favours job interviews, auditions and first dates. Don’t be too bossy toward a peer on the 16th. Adopt a more realistic attitude toward your boss on the 17th. Stick to your guns on the 18th or your followers will lose respect for you and you could find your options closing down all around you. Someone will try to win your sympathies with a sob story on the 20th, but don’t fall for it; they are trying to play on your emotions and pull the wool over your eyes. You may not be able to fulfill a promise on the 21st. Becoming friends with someone who doesn’t share your belief system will be both stimulating and challenging on the 24th. Taking a class will put you on the path to romance on the 27th. The 31st is great for giving a public presentation.

Denigrating a child’s interest will only inflame their passion on the 2nd. Hard work pays off on the 5th when you receive a diploma, award or certificate. The 7th forces you to change the way you deal with people at work. You could hear some startling news around the 9th, prompting you to amend your diet. Seek the opinion of a financial expert on the 13th. You may not be able to change a colleague’s mind on the 16th but you can convince a close friend or romantic partner. The 17th finds you conflicted about the future; don’t make any hasty decisions. You’ll be thinking much more clearly on the 18th, allowing you to make a bold step with regard to your education. Don’t waste time around the 21st trying to show a colleague a better way to do their job; your comments will fall on deaf ears. The 24th begins a new phase of your career, but you’re not sure if you can handle the additional responsibility. Be willing to ask for help on the 27th; an experienced colleague can teach you some valuable coping strategies. You could be sent on an overseas business trip on the 31st.

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IN THE STARS

Horoscopes In the stars ... with Russell Grant LIBRA

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

September 24th – October 23rd

October 24th – November 22nd

November 23rd – December 21st

Be considerate of a close friend’s fears on the 2nd. Trust your intuition on the 5th with regard to an exciting flirtation. You may have to revise travel plans around the 7th. The 9th brings the end to a source of income, giving you less money for leisurely pursuits. Discuss joint financial arrangements on the 13th; if you are single, this would be a good time to set up a retirement fund. You could find hidden resources for a work project on the 16th. It’s hard to know whether a suitor is serious on the 17th; remember that actions speak louder than words. Discuss your fears with a close relative on the 18th. The 20th is not good for financial gambles of any sort. Conserve your cash resources as best you can around the 21st, even if it means cancelling an outing. An opportunity to return to school arrives on the 24th but you’re not sure whether you have the courage to embark on this journey. Let a business associate or romantic partner assist you with a creative project on the 27th. Take the lead in a romantic affair on the 31st.

Job interviews are not favoured for the 2nd; so reschedule them for later in the month when things are looking far more positive on the professional front. Forming a business partnership with an experienced friend on the 5th could be lucrative. You may want to make some changes to a retirement plan or investment portfolio around the 13th. An argument over differing family values could rock a romantic relationship on the 16th. Tread lightly with a close friend or business partner on the 17th. The 18th is perfect for hiring an agent, accountant, lawyer or representative; who will be worth their weight in gold. Don’t bother arguing with an unrealistic relative on the 20th. An intense conversation provides the intellectual stimulation you crave on the 21st. A debt could take a toll on a friendship on the 24th; repay this loan as quickly as possible or your relationship will suffer and might even end. Finding a holiday home by the water is possible on the 27th. You’ll have to take the lead in a romantic relationship on the 31st.

Be considerate of a child’s likes and dislikes on the 2nd. Your work ethic wins you big points with your boss on the 5th. You may have to apologise to a business or romantic partner around the 7th. A period of obscurity comes to a close on the 9th; a flurry of invitations and social obligations await you. The 13th is good for launching a job search. Taking an unorthodox approach to a work assignment on the 16th will yield impressive results. An authority figure could return to your workplace on the 17th, making your job a little more difficult. A medical consultation is favoured for the 18th. Be realistic with regard to a colleague’s work capacity around the 20th. Don’t engage in workplace gossip on the 21st. A new partnership gets off to a rocky start on the 24th as it could conflict with career demands. Let a child or lover inspire you to develop your creative talent on the 27th. A stalled work project could roar back to life on the 31st.

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

December 22nd – January 20th

January 21st – February 19th

February 20th - March 20th

Try not to pressure a relative into doing something they don’t want to do on the 2nd. You’ll have a wonderful chance to put your knowledge to good use on the 5th. Your job responsibilities could change on the 7th. A friendship could come to an end around the 9th when you feel deceived over a money matter. The 13th favours taking a romantic risk. You won’t be able to placate a youngster with bribes on the 16th. Resist the urge to put a lover on a pedestal on the 17th. Learning new lovemaking techniques on the 18th will prove blissful. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time on the 21st. A job offer on the 24th may not be all that it’s cracked up to be. Do what you love, and the money will follow around the 27th. A casual job search could yield exciting results on the 30th. The 31st clears up a misunderstanding between you and a lover.

Don’t enter into a gossipy conversation on the 2nd, or your reputation will be compromised. The 5th presents a wonderful opportunity to apply for a home loan. You may have to revise rules for a younger person on the 7th; be willing to make compromises to help their strengths and weaknesses. A career opportunity comes to a close on the 9th, limiting your personal freedom. The 13th favours making improvements to your diet and exercise regime. Grandiose expectations could frustrate your personal ambition around the 16th. You’ve got to be honest with yourself if you’re going to find happiness on the 17th. A conversation with relatives proves productive on the 18th. Don’t misuse medications on the 20th or your thinking could become muddled. Resist the urge to put a loved one on a pedestal on the 21st. Treat yourself to a little pleasure around the 24th; try to silence that censorious inner voice. Going on faith will yield thrilling results on the 27th. The 31st is good for launching a home improvement project.

Don’t use money to buy someone’s affection on the 2nd. Signing legal papers or striking a business deal is favoured for the 5th. An apology to a relative may be in order on the 7th. A legal decision could be made against you on the 9th, forcing you to turn a new page. Spend the 13th catching up on emails, phone calls and bills. Don’t exaggerate your skills around the 16th. Assume more responsibility toward a close friend or romantic partner on the 17th. Your words carry great force on the 18th, particularly with regard to a property matter. Daydreaming could cause you to miss an important detail on the 20th; try to stay alert. Buying or selling a home could be complicated on the 24th; be sure to heed an estate agent’s advice. Spend money on a project that is close to your heart on the 27th. You could find a lost bill or message on the 31st.

GREAT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY To advertise your business on this page call Fay on 617 651 732 or email: advertising@societylivingmagazine.com

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ARIES March 21st – April 20th You won’t be able to charm your way out of a serious job on the 2nd. Your work ethic boosts your professional reputation on the 5th. Resist the urge to buy technical equipment on the 7th. An angry confrontation brings the end to a painful situation on the 9th. The 13th is perfect for contract negotiations. You may have to cancel a social obligation for the sake of a work assignment on the 16th. More responsibilities and commitments come rolling in on the 17th, forcing you to scale back your social life. Finding a new source of income should be easy on the 18th. Be realistic about your budget on the 20th; this is not a good time to schedule expensive outings. The 21st finds you in an ethical dilemma; you need to be honest with a wayward friend. Communication problems with a colleague waste valuable time on the 24th. The 27th presents a marvellous opportunity for a well-deserved break. A cheque could finally arrive on the 31st.

ISSUE 1 – MAY 2009

ISSUE 1 MAY 2009

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LIFE ON THE COAST

THE COAST’S ULTIMATE SOCIETY AND LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

SOCIETY Living Sweet tastes with

FRENCH FLAIR

DIET SECRETS NORDIC VERSUS MEDITERRANEAN

CLASSIC CRUISING WITH MODERN POISE

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