The Gibraltar Magazine January 2021

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE January 2021 | Vol.26 #03

THE

The Health Store

KEEPING GIBRALTAR HEALTHY

LIVING ON THE VEG:

KEEP VEGANUARY SIMPLE AND SPICY

A TRAVELLER’S DIARY:

OXFORD TO ST PETERSBURG

LETTERS OF SUPPORT: YOU ARE NOT ALONE

from the editor

JANUARY ISSUE EDITOR'S NOTE After the turmoil of 2020, I’m sure we’re all welcoming the fresh, clean slate of January. It feels a little like opening a brand-new notebook for the first time – what story will you write?

THE MAGIC OF NEW BEGININGS.

With the warmth and sparkle of the festivities slowly disappearing behind us, January can be a difficult month for some, but working on your mental and physical health can potentially help combat the effects of this melancholy period. Our cover star this month, Robin Batchelor, owner of The Health Store, has some health-kick tips to get us started (p. 75)!

Isobel Ellul delves into yet another salient topic in our monthly Let’s Talk Real segment. With the advent of the pandemic last year, many of us switched into survival mode, adopting our own unique coping methods.

Isobel encourages us to ‘let go, and go with the flow’, as we accept self-love, mindfulness, and self-care (p. 30).

One individual who has been doing her part in waging the war against disconnection caused by lockdown (and beyond) is Harriet Eaton, a student at Edinburgh University. Read about her Letters of Support, and her warming words of wisdom (p.35).

After the indulgence of December, I’m (almost) looking forward to eating something that is neither wrapped in gold foil nor made of chocolate. What better time to try out ‘Veganuary’? Lisanka Trinidad from The Kasbar reveals why she went to the green side, and gives us some tasty recipes to boot (p.63)!

I am itching to go on holiday; there’s only so many weekend jaunts to La Linea one can take. Hopefully, by the time you’re reading this, Covid has retreated and our fetters removed, allowing us to indulge in a much-needed trip. Chris recounts his attempts at getting from Oxford to Auckland almost entirely by land in the first of our Traveller’s Diary series (p. 79), and Pete reveals some of the hidden gems of the Spanish region of Extremadura (p. 58).

I am dubbing this month a tabula rasa; enjoy what is hopefully the start of a wonderful new year, enjoy a second chance to experience all we missed out on in 2020, and, of course, enjoy the issue!

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

NEW YEAR NEW HOME

Properties in Gibraltar are highly sought-after which is why our team offer a bespoke and personal service to help find and secure your perfect home.

Experts in Gibraltar’s Property Market

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EDITOR:

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Sophie Clifton-Tucker editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com DESIGN: Justin Bautista design@thegibraltarmagazine.com JUNIOR REPORTERS: Ana Sharma Gianna Stanley SPORTS REPORTER: Georgios Tontos SALES: Advertising Team sales@thegibraltarmagazine.com DISTRIBUTION: DHL martin@matrix.gi ACCOUNTS: Paul Cox paul@thegibraltarmagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Eran and Ayelet Mamo Shay Jorge v.Rein Parlade Isobel Ellul Richard Cartwright Sophie Clifton-Tucker Elena Scialtiel Joel Francis Bea Garcia Jeremy Gomez Chris Hedley

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Julia Coelho Deborah Huxley Andrew Licudi Pete Wolstencroft Carmen Anderson Views and opinions within articles are contributor's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine.

The Gibraltar Magazine is published monthly

by Rock Publishing Ltd Portland House, Glacis Road, Gibraltar, PO Box 1114 T: (+350) 20077748 E: editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com © 2019 Rock Publishing Limited.

All rights reserved.

No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written consent of The Gibraltar Magazine. www.TheGibraltarMagazine.com Magazine & website archived by the British Library 6

82 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

38 86 content

35

08 Hello There: What have you learnt about yourself in 2020?

54 Bookish: Join Our Monthly Book Club!

10 News

56 Spirit of the Author: Joe Caruana

BUSINESS 16 Beyond Borders: Exploring New Markets – Israel 21 The Future of Office Space: Physical or Digital?

LIFE 23 Government Houses: A History of the Gibraltar Convent 26 Are Social Clubs Surviving?

30 Let’s Talk Real: Mental Health 35 Letters of Support: You Are Not Alone

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SCENE 38 Incidentally: From Class Clown to Conceptual Drama 41 Gooseman 44 Look at Me Now: Grime Rapper Fekky Visits Gibraltar 47 The Reimagination of a Most Beloved Story 51 Art Club: Draw the Cable Car in 6 Steps

LEISURE 58 Extremadura: Hidden Gems of Spain 63 Living on the Veg: Keep Veganuary Simple and Spicy 68 The Scoreboard 70 Fancy Pants Fundraiser: Help Calpe House 73 Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Wine and Food 75 The Health Store 79 A Traveller’s Diary: Oxford to St Petersburg 82 Grab Your Coat: Winter Wardrobe Staples

REGULARS 86 Recipes: Creamy Cauliflower, Turmeric and Ginger Soup & Sweet Potato Rosti 88 Information 93 #GibsGems 94 Kids Korner 95 Coffee Time

79 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2020

on't forget to find the D Hungry Monkey!

COVER Photographer: Leo Hayes @lensdarwin Model: Robin Batchelor Location: The Health Store (www.thehealthstoreorganic.com) 7

hello there

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT ABOUT YOURSELF IN 2020?

Mihaela Rusu CRM Coordinator at 888

Rachel Goodman Facilities & Projects Executive at the Bassadone Automotive Group / Personal Trainer at LVK Personal Training "To say that 2020 has been a challenging year would be an understatement.

As creatures of habit, we become entangled in the daily rat race that is work, hobbies, and other commitments. The past year has reminded me of how important it is to live and stay true to my values. Peace, freedom, compassion for others in the community and faith have all taken on a new importance for me. I have even learned to appreciate the daily rat race itself after it ceased to exist when things changed so drastically and suddenly.

The chaos that Covid-19 inflicted on the world actually allowed me to 'STOP' and be grateful for all the things and all the people that I value in life."

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"What 2020 taught me was how comfortable I actually am with spending time by myself. I'm a very active and friendly person and most of the time I find myself in the presence of other people.

All this quarantine period showed me that I'm pretty happy with spending time with myself and that sometimes a break from everything and everyone is much needed."

Jayne Wink Massage Therapist at the Gibraltar Orthopaedic and Medical Clinic "I learned that I will forever have a sweet tooth, and it’s not going away. I learned that sometimes you have to accept feedback even if you don’t think it was fairly given. I learned that I’m drawn to others with the same type of passionate energy as me, and I learnt to say no."

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

hello there

Vanessa Saccone-Recagno Teacher - Student Services Coordinator at the Gibraltar College

Sonia Patricia Golt Retired 5 years ago (and loving every minute!)

"What have I learnt in 2020? Well first never to take things for granted, to have enough hobbies so lockdown or time spent at home can still be entertaining. To have a basic knowledge of social media to be able to keep in touch with family and friends at all times, especially in 2020.

To appreciate what others have done for us, like the frontline workers and the Gibraltar Government... To be thankful for being alive!”

Deepak Ramchandani

"That I hated being in lockdown! This surprised me because before lockdown I was always dreaming of having a few days off. I imagined myself catching up with housework, baking, watching Netflix... Careful what you wish for! The reality was that I longed to be out and about. I saw people on social media baking delicious looking cakes, decorating their homes and taking up all sorts of hobbies and all I could think of was getting back to routine.

Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed spending time with my husband and kids but I missed my job, my family and friends and 'my normal'.”

Makeup artist at SM SERUYA "Having my family, close friends and loved ones there for me always and how much I have missed them tremendously! To breathe and live again.”

Want to see yourself or your team featured here? Get in touch at editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com and we'll send you our monthly question!

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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news 2021 ANNUAL ART COMPETITION FOR YOUNG ARTISTS

Artists may submit a maximum of three paintings/drawings and two sculptures. Unframed artworks will also be accepted. All entries will be exhibited at the John Mackintosh Hall from the 24th February to 5th March 2021.

Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture are inviting local artists to participate in the annual Art Competition for Young Artists that will be held in February 2021.

Prizes to be awarded are:

The competition is open to Gibraltarians and residents of Gibraltar attending school in years 9 to 13 (or College equivalent), as well as to young Gibraltarian artists aged up to 24 years old as at 24th February 2021. Works must be original and not previously entered competitively, with the exception of non-winning entries in the 2020 Spring Visual Arts Competition and 2020 International Art Competition.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED The Gibraltar Cat Welfare Society is looking for volunteers to help feed and care for their cats. If you’re genuinely interested and are able to spare around 2-3 hours a week, please contact them on Facebook: Gibraltar Cat Welfare Society. Thank you.

Entries may be handed in at the John Mackintosh Hall as from Wednesday 10th February 2021 from 3.30pm to 6pm. Closing date for entries is 6pm on Friday 12th February 2021.

For further information contact GCS Events Department on 20067236 or email: info@culture.gi.

1st Prize The Ministry of Culture Prize - £1000 2nd Prize The AquaGib Award - £500 The Alwani Foundation Award School Years 9 to 11 - £500 The Alwani Foundation Award School Years 12 to 13 - £500 The Arts Society Sculpture Award - £500 People’s Choice Award - £100.

REQUEST TO LOCAL FISHERMEN We would like to encourage those who fish to be extra careful with their hooks, lines and lures. If left abandoned, these can pose a serious threat to wildlife, often condeming an animal to a slow and painful death, as would have been the case for this juvenile yellow legged gull had local sailor, Richard Toyne, been unable to rescue it from the bay.

hook proved to be slightly more difficult. After cutting it as close to the nostril as possible, Richard then had to reach inside the the birds beak and was able to remove the barbed section of the hook from the roof of its mouth.

Although it was bleeding quite heavily at first we are glad to say that, after recuperating for about thirty minutes, the gull flew off to rejoin its flock.

All the barbs of a three pronged hook were embedded in its left foot while a single pronged hook had penetrated one nostril. Thankfully, using a pair of electrician's side cutters, they were able to cut off the barbs then slide the smooth part of the hook from the foot. The other 10

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

news WIZZ AIR UK LAUNCHES LONDON LUTON TO GIBRALTAR SERVICE

Gibraltar Sea Scouts. Arriving and departing passengers were presented with gifts by a team from the Gibraltar Tourist Board.

Wizz Air UK launched its new service between London Luton and Gibraltar on Friday 11th December. Operating twice weekly on Fridays and Mondays, the new service will operate on a year round basis.

The flight was welcomed with a water cannon salute provided by the Gibraltar Airport Fire and Rescue Service and passengers were greeted by the Gibraltar Re-enactment Society and the

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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news

NEW ELECTRIC VEHICLES FOR ROYAL GIBRALTAR POST OFFICE The Royal Gibraltar Post Office has received the keys for a fully electric fleet of vehicles. Minister for Postal Services, the Hon Vijay Daryanani, said: “These new electric vehicles will allow us to have our mail delivered pollution free. It will also help us reduce the emissions on a daily basis compared to normal petrol vehicles. I am excited to see these environmentally friendly vans on our roads in line with our commitment to provide a cleaner and greener Gibraltar.”

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COMMAND PAPER FOR A BILL FOR AN ACT SPECIFICALLY DEDICATED TO OFFENCES RELATING TO DOMESTIC ABUSE To mark the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Minister for Justice and Equality published a Command Paper for a Bill for an Act specifically dedicated to offences relating to domestic abuse. The landmark, standalone and consolidated piece of legislation seeks to enshrine in law the protection of victims of domestic abuse.

The consultation process for the Command Paper will run for a period of 6 weeks and will conclude at midday on Wednesday 13th January 2021. The two most fundamental changes that this proposed piece of legislation will introduce will be the introduction of a definition of domestic abuse

in statute and the introduction of domestic abuse protection notices and orders.

The Minister for Justice, Equality, Health and Care the Hon Samantha Sacramento, commented: “The draft Bill is a standalone piece of legislation that defines domestic abuse widely to include, for example, coercive and controlling behaviour. It also provides new tools for the RGP and the Courts including domestic abuse prevention notices and orders that prohibit abuse and may prohibit contact or stop the person going within a certain distance of the victim’s home etc. While statistics show that domestic abuse predominantly affects women, our strategy includes everyone.

“It is vital that victims of domestic abuse speak out and seek help, and that their friends and families support them in calling out their abuse. Our strategy is about victims, their families, children (in particular as the impact on children in abuse households can be long lasting), and finally perpetrators.

Above all it is about offering the best protection and support and breaking the cycle.”

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

news ISOLAS BOLSTERS TEAM

WITH NEW ASSOCIATES

ISOLAS LLP has welcomed two new associates to its growing legal team.

Katrina Isola has been enrolled as a Solicitor and James Castle has been admitted as a Barrister in the Supreme Court of Gibraltar, following their respective legal training.

Katrina’s practice sees her working alongside Partners Emma Lejeune and Sarah Bray, focussing on private client and property.

In terms of private client, she advises high net worth individuals

with their business’s and personal affairs, as well as estate planning and residency advice. In terms of property she advises clients on sales and purchases of properties in Gibraltar, reviewing and approving assignments on behalf of management companies for key developments and acting for purchasers on off-plan projects.

Since joining the litigation department, James has been involved in a wide range of contentious matters particularly in the areas of trust litigation and insolvency. James has also been involved in a number of noncontentious financial services matters.

Senior Partner Peter Isola said: “We’re really pleased to have Katrina and James join our team, as we continue to grow our firm.

Both Katrina and James have worked extremely hard to finish their qualifications, despite the circumstances surrounding their training this year. They are both exemplary lawyers, and we look forward to seeing them progress as part of the ISOLAS team.”

50 wines by the glass 40 small dishes of Mediterranean cuisine 30 John Mackintosh Square GX11 1AA Gibraltar. Tel: 200 70201 info@vinopolisgastrobar.gi www.vinopolisgastrobar.gi

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2020

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news KITCHEN STUDIOS AT GEMA Kitchen Studios returns to GEMA Gallery, where they have exhibited on numerous occasions. Speaking on behalf of Kitchen, Lizanne Figueras adds that in this instance, with the Gallery having been completely empty, the space is more of a playground, with artists able to have more of a free reign in their creative outputs.

The exhibition which has been organised by Gibraltar Cultural Services on behalf of the Ministry for Culture, has since attracted some other creatives who will also be exhibiting their work at the venue. To allow for this, the exhibition has been extended to the end of January, and artists will be producing more site-specific work.

The Gallery's vaults and inner chambers offers the ideal setting for the group, allowing for selfcontained works in these spaces and diverse themes to be explored through installations, film, ceramics and photography.

The exhibition’s opening times are 11am-3pm on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, with extended opening hours until 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays to allow more people the opportunity to visit a worthwhile offering.

The GEMA Gallery can be visited until the 23rd December and will reopen on the 4th January with the usual opening hours.

More information from the GCS Cultural Development Unit on 200 79750, or email info@culture.gi.

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

news PLATER YOUTH CLUB COASTEERING ACTIVITY WITH IN2 ADVENTURES Last weekend a group of ten young people from Plater Youth Club took part in a fun-packed local adventure by embarking on In2 Adventures’ new coasteering activity at Sandy Bay. The young people took on a number of challenging activities throughout the coasteering course.

A variety of techniques were used, including zip lining, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling and swimming. The session formed part of the Youth Service’s endeavour to promote the importance of a healthy lifestyle through fun-based and environmentally-friendly activities.

The Youth Service would like to remind the public that they continue to operate with a maximum of 16 people per club session (including staff) and by appointment only as per Covid regulations. For further information about Plater Youth Club, please contact Jamie Napoli at Jamie. napoli@gibraltar.gov.gi or on 54062030.

NEW FIRE KIT FOR GIBRALTAR’S FIREFIGHTERS

who we are as a people”.

In the biggest kit update in fifteen years, Gibraltar’s firefighters have begun wearing a new, gold coloured fire tunic and leggings as modernised personal protective equipment (PPE).

“We need a kit that can support and protect our crews in a range of incidents whether fighting fires, freeing people trapped inside crashed vehicles, dealing with complex rescues or indeed protecting them at the many varied jobs we are called upon to respond.

The new kit is lighter and more durable than the current attire.

It will inevitably enhance user experience and limit exhaustion and fatigue at potentially physically demanding operations. Another distinctive feature of this new outfit is the inclusion a reflective rear patch with “Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service” on it, as well as the Gibraltar flag on the upper right hand sleeve.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Matthew Payas said: “These new additions make our firefighters clearly identifiable when we travel abroad and attend overseas courses, we must be proud of our identity and

Chief Fire Officer Colin Ramirez said: “Modern firefighting is so much more than rushing into burning buildings.

“As we align with best industry recognised safe working practices It is our collective duty to protect those that put their lives on the line to save others during every stage of an incident. As a service, we have an obligation to continuously evolve and implement the necessary policies and procedures, with the appropriate equipment to limit the harmful effects of exposure to toxic fire effluents. Its distinctive gold colour, shows up dirt and damage more easily, which will in-turn highlight potential contamination”.

For general information about the Gibraltar Youth Service visit youth.gi or contact Mark Zammit: Mzammit@gibraltar.gov.gi or call 20078637.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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business

BEYOND BORDERS

Exploring new markets. Part II: Israel

I

n this second part of our trilogy, exploring new markets for Gibraltar businesses who are looking to expand beyond the EU, we explore one of the world’s innovation powerhouses, the start-up nation – Israel.

Located right at the opposite end of the Mediterranean Sea to Gibraltar, Israel is a relatively small country with a population of approximately 9 million, with an area similar to the size of Wales. The population of Israel is very diverse with the Jewish population accounting for 74% and comprises of Jews which have arrived from all corners of the world. Of the Jewish population, about 20% are of Russian/exSoviet Union origin, and whilst the majority of Israelis are secular, about 21% are orthodox religious.

The Arab population in Israel accounts for 21% of the total population. Diversity is also a big contributor to the Israeli start-up state of mind. Israel is a country of immigrants. Almost two-thirds of the population is made up of newcomers who were willing to uproot themselves and move to a new country. These natural risktakers are the perfect candidates to become entrepreneurs.

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This openness to risk-taking along with the need to overcome numerous existential threats have turned Israel into the second largest start-up ecosystem in the world, following Silicon Valley. Almost GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

business every reputable multinational tech company in the world has a Research & Development centre in Israel, including Intel, IBM, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Facebook, and Apple. Most of these centres were a result of making local acquisitions of Israeli start-ups. Thus, if you are looking to develop a new product or looking to find a technological solution that can optimise your business operations in one way or another, Israel is the place to look at.

Being small means Israel has a small local market, so entrepreneurs are forced to think globally and prove to the world that size doesn’t matter.

Consequently, Israelis are constantly looking for ways that can help them penetrate new markets, and cooperation with Gibraltar-based businesses as a conduit for doing business in the UK (and beyond) is an attractive proposition worth exploring with entrepreneurs in Israel.

Israel’s three biggest cities play different roles in the country’s economy. Jerusalem, the capital, is the seat of Parliament (the Knesset) and any business with the Government and public sector is mostly done there. Tel Aviv is the country’s financial and commercial hub, with most banks, financial institutions and corporate headquarters found there. Haifa, in the north, is Israel’s main seaport and centre for manufacturing industry and production, and also home to Israel’s largest HiTech park.

Israel’s small size means that both Jerusalem and Haifa are within less than 1-hour drive from Tel Aviv, making Tel Aviv the most convenient place to stay when coming to Israel for business.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

So, if you are considering doing business in Israel, here are some Dos and Don’ts: DOS Do know who you are going to do business with.

Business culture in Israel is casual and informal. Israelis are direct, assertive and persistent. Business is fast-paced and often conducted with an inherent urgency. At the same time, personal connections are of the utmost importance.

Colleagues and business partners take time to get to know one another, socialise and drink coffee together.

Do your cultural homework – Israel is a young country with few natural resources and it frequently faces adverse conditions. These factors play into all aspects of Israeli culture, including its business environment. Israelis prize intelligence and creativity, showing respect for experts and prominent specialists in their field.

Do expect Israel junior team members to voice their opinion and take an active role. The management style in Israel is often collaborative, and the concept of hierarchy is practically non-existent. Israelis are interested in solutions and 17

business results, and everyone is given the opportunity to voice their opinion.

Nevertheless, the most senior person will have the final say in the decision-making process.

Do be prepared for interruptions during your business meeting. The informal atmosphere of Israeli business combined with the importance of relationships means that people will take the time to answer calls or visits from other people. This may be very distracting and may seem impolite but being efficient in Israel means doing more than one thing at the same time.

DON’TS Don’t use understatement and subtleties. Israelis are direct and state their opinions.

You should try to do the same.

Israelis will trust you more if you are honest and direct. Expect business to be straightforward and emphasise the ‘bottom line’.

Israelis generally have strong opinions when it comes to politics, religion and the Palestinian conflict. Try to steer away from conversations on these topics and try to remain neutral

on the subject to avoid causing offense.

Don’t do business on Friday or Saturday, as this is the Jewish Sabbath day. People typically work from Sunday to Thursday.

Israel is a vibrant, innovative and friendly market to do business in.

The Gibraltar-Israel Chamber of Commerce (www.gibrael.org ) can assist with opening doors for you to this market.

Do respect the religious background of your business partner. Religious Jews, for instance, won’t shake hands of members of the opposite sex in this way. It is customary to ask if there are special requirements when serving food or drink, as some Israelis observe the dietary laws of Kashrut (Kosher).

ERAN SHAY, Managing Director & AYELET MAMO SHAY, Business Development Director of Benefit Business Solutions Ltd. (+350) 200 73669 general@benefitgibraltar.com

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR GROWTH. Selecting Kedhlow as your IT support partner in Gibraltar and Andalucia is a fast and easy process; from initial consultation, installation and implementation to the support of our professional team.

We can supply and manage your technology to ensure that it is always updated, running optimally and securely, while you concentrate on growing your business.

Kedhlow holds a range of key industry accreditations: Cisco, Oracle, Dell - is a Microsoft and HPE Partner, and has expertise in Mac and Windows environments.

We will ensure your IT is secure and compliant.

CONTACT OUR TEAM Kedhlow (Gibraltar) Ltd 6, Queensway Quay Marina, Gibraltar +350 200 63060 info@kedhlow.com www.kedhlow.com

business

THE FUTURE OF OFFICE SPACE Physical or digital?

I

t is a certainty that office space over the last decade has been on its way to a substantial change. Covid-19, if anything, has certainly sped up this true fact and will most likely make major changes in office design or possibly make certain types of office space and services disappear.

How will this affect the existing office and commercial space?

Will offices cease to exist as such and go totally digital?

And what about shops; will they all go digital and merely operate from a warehouse and traditional customers only buy online?

These are all complex questions which could lead to several different answers. Two extremely important factors to consider are good productivity and a happy workforce. This could be achieved by working from home, but not in all cases. Some companies have seen a benefit from running things online and switching from face-to-face meetings to arranging

meetings in digital or video conferencing form or not seeing their customers except in essential cases like signing certain important documents.

Will they go out of business?

In a number of European jurisdictions including France, Italy, Germany, Spain and Portugal, certain commercial transactions must be executed before a Notary Public. But other than that, most commercial contracts are getting signed in digital form. So the next question is, what happens to all these buildings that have created some very modern office spaces?

Will they go out of business?

Certainly not if the development or management company knows how to reinvent things and move forward with times. It is not an easy affair but it is possible to adapt to the future trends.

One way forward is mixing office

spaces with leisure amenities.

Event areas, restaurants, spa facilities, beauty parlours, or gyms could very well mix with modern office space. A good layout could include restaurants located in the top floors to enjoy the best terrace and indoor views whilst health clubs or gyms could use mezzanine levels or lower levels and have more space perhaps. A clever architect with commercial sense could work wonders with distribution of leisure and office space together which would benefit all parties involved.

This is not new; the hospitality industry has been using this successful formula in the past decade and it looks like it really does attract customers who feel they can do a large number of things within the same shopping, office and leisure building without the need to drive to other places.

This rule applies to all retail business as well. There are people who buy solely online and lots of others that do the opposite.

Some people trust a photograph and just order without trying.

This is perfectly feasible but there 21

business

are people who do not entirely trust buying without seeing the final product unless they know it inside out. Let us take as an example clothing and garments. If a gentleman client wants a pair of well-known jeans like Levi Strauss model 501 in size 36, this does

JORGE V.REIN PARLADE MBA Business Consultant +350 54045282 jorgeparlade@aol.com 22

not need any checking and the purchase can be achieved online with a few clicks. But let us think of a top-of-the-range suit from Zegna or Cerruti. This requires a physical try and it is an entirely different ball game. Or an elegant dress for a lady that is available as part of a ready-to-wear collection that changes each year on each season at least twice. Can anybody tell me of a wise lady that would go ahead online? Without trying it on first? I have my doubts.

In addition to these small examples there are plenty of other similar cases. These are some of the reasons why traditional shops will not disappear. Some will, but not all. Buying online has, without a doubt, great advantages. But there are drawbacks as well. Issues with VAT, which in Gibraltar does not exist - it is hard for some countries abroad to understand this. If we get the wrong size or product the return is cumbersome and time

consuming when if we buy at the local M&S for example, all we do is turn up and get a replacement or a refund there and then. And the list of things one can simply not buy online is endless. An important thing to know is that what we call online shopping is not really new.

In the 80s we had catalogue retail or ‘mail order’. Almost as old as the sea. The difference is the speed at which we can get things ordered and the quality of photographs amongst other advantages. This is part of our progress in society. The two ways of shopping can surely, and will most likely, coexist.

Another good way forward with empty commercial and office space is to turn this stock of property into residential units. Again, this is not new and it could certainly work out possibly mixing with all the above-mentioned options. This could be the subject of a future article.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

life

GOVERNMENT HOUSES

A history of the Gibraltar Convent through writer Jeffrey Hyland’s words.

BY GIANNA STANLEY

W

riter and photographer, Jeffrey Hyland has released a new book, Government Houses: Vice-Regal Residences of The Crown, which features Gibraltar’s Government House (the Convent). He also writes about over fifty other Government Houses in the Commonwealth, Overseas Territories, and Crown Dependencies across the world.

This book provides 175 pages of unique British history, with over 250 photographs to illustrate it, combining these official residences for the first time and exploring the Royal Family’s relationship with these Government Houses.

After visiting the Government House in Sydney, home to the Governor of New South Wales, Hyland was inspired to write about the histories of the current Vice Regal Residences around the world. This project was first conceived in 2004, GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

and it has definitely been worth Hyland’s time.

His interest in the Royal family from a young age aided his research, as the history of the Royal family is central to that of these residences - with many Royals continuing to stay there in their overseas Royal visits today. Hyland explains that “Government Houses play a central role in the official and ceremonial life of each of these Commonwealth nations and territories, hosting receptions, investitures and formal ceremonies as well as garden parties and charity events.” The Gibraltar convent’s history begins as early as the 16th Century, and Hyland’s book perfectly captures its unique beginnings.

The chapter starts off by explaining what being British overseas territory really means.

Yes, we all know we are British, but do we know what it means to be an overseas territory?

Hyland explains how whilst we are under the jurisdiction and sovereignty of the United Kingdom, we are internally a 23

history Do we know what it means to be an overseas territory? self-governing state with our own unique Gibraltarian identity.

I think it’s really important how Hyland mentions how each territory is equipped with its own identity because it separates the state from Britain and adds to its own unique culture. There are fourteen overseas territories, but only nine are home to an official Government House - with Gibraltar being one of them.

All of us have probably visited the Convent at one point in

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our lives - whether it be for the Christmas festivities or receiving an award, it is always a magical place to visit. What I think is fundamental to learning about our cultural identity is learning about its history first. The convent was built around 1531 and was originally the home to Franciscan Friars - hence its name.

However, by 1728, it became the home to the Governor of Gibraltar. Now, I never knew the specific role played by the Governor, but Hyland explains his role simply. The Governor is to act as the “de facto head of state and be responsible for formally appointing the Chief Minister of Gibraltar”. He is also in control of Gibraltar’s military forces as Commander-in-Chief,

so we can thank him partly for keeping our security. Hyland goes on to explain how after Gibraltar became British in 1713, it was heavily rebuilt “in the Georgian style with Victorian elements” but there are still features of its “ecclesiastical past that remain”.

The Georgian architecture is absolutely beautiful, due to its symmetry, lavish embellishments, and walls featuring paintings of previous monarchs - the Convent is one of Gibraltar’s most cultural sites to visit.

I found it really interesting to learn about how Queen Victoria’s father, Edward, was once the Governor of Gibraltar and occupied the convent for some time, however, his harsh

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

history

leadership resulted in a local mutiny - he was even refused entry into Gibraltar despite still holding the title of Governor! This really displays the stubbornness of Gibraltarians, even centuries ago. Edward has not been the only Royals to visit Gibraltar though - our amazing sites proved to be enough to attract many more Royals. For example, Hyland mentions King George V and Queen Mary visiting in the early 20th century, and with them, they brought “over 1,000lbs of meat and 2,000lbs of bread” to feed the poor in honour of their visit.

They were followed by visits from GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

Queen Alexandra and her children Princess Victoria and Princess Charles, and Prince Arthur with his wife and daughter. Perhaps the most famous visit was that of Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip, and their children in 1951. If you visit the Rock, there are a myriad of signs which show you where they stood on their visit. Prince Charles and Princess Diana visited in 1981 to board the Britannia for their honeymoon. The visits did not stop at British Royals though.

Kaiser Willhelm II of Germany and King Manuel of Portugal were all attracted to visit, probably due to the sunny Mediterranean weather.

After working on his book for so long, and having the pleasure to visit Gibraltar previously, Hyland’s book is definitely worth the read; it is direct, informative, and engrossing. I have had the pleasure of learning so much by reading it.

You can learn more about the Convent and other Government Houses around the world by purchasing Government Houses: Vice-Regal Residences of The Crown at either the Gibraltar Heritage Trust shop or at jeffreyhyland.wordpress.com/ books.

25

life

ARE SOCIAL CLUBS SURVIVING?

Some are, and others struggle to keep afloat. That’s the conclusion I arrived at after talking to many individuals who either continue to frequent them or no longer support the trend of popping in for drinks and tapas and spending a couple of hours socialising with friends or acquaintances - and just having a good time!

BY RICHARD CARTWRIGHT

I

was drawn to the idea of writing about the subject after witnessing the demise of St Bernard’s Social club at the Community Centre, the (these days) not-so-popular Casino Calpe, and the Royal Gibraltar Regiment Association’s poorly attended premises in Irish town – not to mention the Hindu, Jewish, the Odd Fellows in Victualling Office Lane and other social clubs that have been long gone for many years now.

Outside the town area some of the ‘district’ or ‘community’ clubs are still standing... but only just: the very popular Astoria (off Flat Bastion Road) is now only opening two or three days a week, I’m told. Those in the North District – Varyl Begg, Glacis, Laguna and the Catalan Bay Social Club are still there with a couple of those seemingly doing quite well. The Senior Citizens Clubs are still there also. I popped in to the one in Town Range. It was midmorning on a Tuesday and found it quite toned down in terms of numbers on the premises – four or five workmen having their 26

Casino Calpe morning coffee and a four-man table of seniors enjoying a game of cards or dominoes... and that was it! I was informed however, that the club was healthy in terms of membership with four individuals having signed up that very morning, so I must’ve visited at a bad time.

I remember when football teams in the 50s and 60s like the Prince of Wales, Britannia, Gibraltar United, Europa and some others had their own healthy social activity within their location.

Nowadays, supporters’ clubs have taken over and some of those seem to be working well.

We’ve also got long standing rowing clubs, the Calpe and the Mediterranean by the waterside and the Royal Yacht Club. Those have been there forever, with young enthusiasts using the facility for their sporting needs, and that helps.

I’m told summer is the time when these clubs come into their own with families for obvious reasons, as all of them have bathing facilities and the kitchens are kept

busy, as they can be for Sunday lunches all year round. However, there are those individuals who remain members but perhaps don’t frequent as often as they did and others who have dropped out completely, but membership at the Yacht Club is apparently full to the brim, making it difficult to take on new members especially during GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

life

The Royal Gibraltar Regiment Club Casino Calpe those summer months.

Another member of a longstanding club – Sandpits Lawn Tennis – told me things were booming there with a very healthy social scene with many turning up for meals and drinks. The Customs (HMC) club at the old Mons Calpe wharf and the Gibraltar Services Police (GSP) club by their HQ at the old North Gate entrance are also reportedly both doing well.

Clearly, on reflection, it seems some continue to attract their members and others are just not doing so well. I walk past the RGR Association Club in Irish Town most days which attracted my snoopy nose to investigate further as I noticed the premises wasn’t as busy as it had been in the past and so met up with the club’s president Lt Col - now Hon Col of the regiment - Francis Brancato, who gave me his thoughts on the GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

possible reasons for low attendance at the club.

The venue’s doors were opened, inviting retired members of the regiment in 1998 to join, and was very successful attracting a paid-up membership of about 800 at its peak. “Yes, we had a very good lady cook at the time offering great food with whatever profits to be had going towards the regiment’s funds. Members pay just £10 a year and attendance then, was quite healthy.” It’s true, sufficient members regularly attending any club provide a good atmosphere keeping the place busy and buzzing, which apart good food

being served, also helps to encourage individuals to visit their favourite meeting place more often for a snack or drink and a chat with their contemporaries, reminiscing about the ‘old days’, no doubt!

“What’s also important,” the Colonel asserts, “is the need 27

life to attract younger ex-servicemen. Those in their late 40s and 50s from all services not just from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment and invite serving individuals, as the older members begin to stay away or pass on. Paidmembership now stands at just about 300! I also think we need to come up with ideas, change ways of doing things, organise events offering more choice, maybe invite wives to come along with their partners.”

Col Brancato explains.

“Additionally, the club needs refurbishing to bring it up-todate giving it a more welcoming ambience.”

Probably true to point out as well, that unlike the sport driven clubs which do attract a younger membership practice the sport they’ve chosen, would also naturally encourage other members of their families and friends to join.

Royal Gibraltar Yacht Club

up

to

Running a club which ostensibly only has an attraction for the older members of our community – as in Senior Citizens’ Clubs, retired servicemen’s clubs and again, St Bernard’s Social Club and the Casino Calpe – is a clear indication that, as the Col says, there’s a need to come up with fresh ideas in order to boost membership and draw in other persons of a younger age and offer them activities that grab their attention whilst not abandoning the spirit and 28

Mediterranean Rowing Club Photos by Luis Photography - www.luisphotosgibraltar.com the underlying principles of the club... maybe a difficult marriage to hold together but perhaps a compromise would be the answer!

It’s clear diversity is the name of the game and with all that’s on offer these days with games, gadgets, mobiles, tablets and Netflix encouraging you to stay in, coming up with the goods to deliver a pleasant evening in good company at your chosen social

club in today’s environment – pandemics playing their negative part also – requires a lot of thinking and putting ‘shoulders to the wheel’, strung together by a willing group of committee members genuinely wanting to do it, no less.

Thus, to those in charge, give it a thought, allow Covid to draw to a close, and get stuck in!

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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life

s ’ t e L lk...

Ta

Real

‘Let’s Talk Real’ is a podchat page on Instagram (@letstalkrealgib), started by Isobel Ellul (ex-freelance broadcaster) and her son Simon Hammond (student dancer), which posts recorded, fly on the wall chats with Gibraltar individuals about subjects that may be taboo. This month, Isobel and Rosie, who work together for the No More Shame charity, chat body positivity and self-care.

BY ISOBEL ELLUL

MENTAL HEALTH DURING A PANDEMIC

I

It comes as no surprise to any of us that mental health issues have become so much more acute during this pandemic, especially with the restrictions and lockdowns. Instagram’s Let’s Talk Real (@letstalkrealgib) attempted humbly, without trying to trivialise, to chat to many affected, both on and offline.

In fact, the messages just came pouring in…

COVID has given us all a kick in the bottom, has forced us into self-reflection, dealing with our fears, learning coping mechanisms in order to keep sane. The inability to balance our lives with social 30

activities that bring us joy, the lack of human contact and touch that brings us comfort, the loss of control and spontaneity, have all stirred feelings of claustrophobia, ennui, frustration, anomie - and at times, despair.

On Let’s Talk Real, Phoebe Kelly talks about her struggles with depression from 17 years old, and how her friends saved her from a deep hole during lockdown, including Beatrice Garcia; Nadine shares her story and empowering positive outlook, reflected in her many tattoos; Aroa Nuñez and Iris Pisarello speak about the challenges of lockdown in the UK, away from home; Simon talks lockdown in London, bringing him back to the brink of suicidal

thoughts and Tony Gaul MBE shares his attempted suicide stories, which motivated him to reach out to others to support and guide them.

They all speak the same language: how it really has been about trying to keep your s*** together, pushing yourself, how to let go and go with the flow, to live in the moment and accept we cannot change things out of our control, but can control the immediate here and now.

Self-care, mindfulness, self-love, affirmation that you will be alright and that it’s OK not to be OK. It really has been one day at a time for many, however, Let’s Talk Real has shown that it’s good to share and talk, that we GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

life

It’s OK to show vulnerabilities, it’s a sign of strength. are all in this together. It’s OK to show vulnerabilities, it’s a sign of strength, we are human sentient beings.

So many people are dealing with negative feelings every day, hard for them to reach out and talk about it because it’s often impossible to explain… this has been 2020. So be that friend or loved one who takes the time to notice, but doesn’t push for answers. There’s not always an explanation; that is mental health for you. No quick fix, no standardised ‘remedy’, no one size fits all, no such ‘normal’, a ‘healthy’ mental state is so individual.

I love the phrase ‘the art of GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

31

life Everyone has their story to tell. psychology’, because so it is. The mind boggles, literally. Perhaps, more talking, openness, honesty and being real with yourself and others, not living a lie, gets you back to your individual ‘normal’.

We need the space and time in society to sensitively talk, actively listen and empathise, because everyone has their story to tell.

The internet, especially during COVID online times, has been full of advice and support for those suffering from mental health issues. The common themes for recovery being: • Accepting and acknowledging that there have been changes and that you’ve not quite been yourself.

• Accepting that you need to speak to someone. It is difficult to find the right words to express what you are going through; however, it is important to try to express how you’re feeling.

silence… with intrusive thoughts, uncomfortable in my own body, self-hatred. I didn’t deserve to be alive… I leant on vulnerability…”

spontaneity, without fear. It’s good to talk. Let’s talk real. Let’s keep sane.

Thank goodness it’s 2021; slowly bringing balance back to our everyday activities and more importantly, the life as we knew it of choice, freedom and

#LetsTalkReal #MentalHealthIsHealth #UncomfortablyNumb #CovidChallenges #MentalHealth #SelfCare #SelfLove

• Although a simple chat about feelings may be enough for some, others may need to seek professional medical mental health advice. Make that appointment, privately if necessary.

As Phoebe explained about her depression, a journey many of us can relate to, let’s take note, acknowledge this and start on that first step of healing: “When you’re going through it, it can be so dark and lonely… I was just existing.

Stress at university brought out the negative traits. I struggled in 32

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

34

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

life

LETTERS OF SUPPORT You are not alone.

BY SOPHIE CLIFTON-TUCKER

W

hen Harriet ‘Boo’ Eaton isn’t chronicling the hilarious trials and tribulations of her day-to-day university life on Instagram, this inspirational student spends her time sending ‘Letters of Support’ to those in need.

WHAT HAS LED YOU TO BE SO EMPATHETIC ABOUT OTHERS IN LIFE? I set up Letters of Support after I’d had some struggles with my mental health and I didn’t want anyone else to feel the way that I did, so I wanted to do my own thing to help others. I also wanted to give back to the community of people that had helped me so much when I was struggling by paying that kindness forward to others.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

WHAT IS LETTERS OF SUPPORT? It’s a charity project I set up just after my GCSEs, where people who are struggling with mental health issues can request a letter of support. I will hand write and

post them a letter (sent by email if they live outside of the UK), letting them know that whatever they are going through they are not alone and that a completely random stranger is rooting for them.

35

life

“I wanted to pay that kindness forward.”

It began after I saw a documentary on BBC Three about someone doing the same sort of thing. I really admired her and wondered if I could set up something similar. I had no idea it would grow to the scale that it is today.

The main theme and reasons behind the project is reminding people that they aren’t alone. Mental illness can be incredibly isolating and sometimes you need to be reminded that people care about you and are grateful for your existence

WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN LIKE SO FAR? The response has been so great, it is still going three years later and I have written over 325 letters. People have given me such amazing feedback saying that it has helped them, which motivates me to keep going and expand the project in the future

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO WITH IT IN THE FUTURE? I am currently doing a collaboration with @Knotted.

Colors (on Instagram) who has provided friendship bracelets for me to include in the letters as a physical representation that you are not alone. In the future I want to keep writing letters for as long as I can and helping as many people as possible.

WHAT ARE YOUR WORDS OF WISDOM FOR PEOPLE GOING THROUGH A TOUGH TIME RIGHT NOW? You are not alone - no matter what your brain is saying, you are so loved and so appreciated and I am so glad that you’re here trying your best to deal with some really tricky stuff.

Keep going, it will get better.

Follow Harriet on Instagram: @bamboozle63 and check out her project @letters.of.support.

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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scene

INCIDENTALLY From class clown to conceptual drama.

BY ELENA SCIALTIEL

D

escribing herself as the class clown, goofing around and making people laugh with silly impressions or sketches since a young age, Lina Tonnessen is at her second serious theatre role under the directions of Daniel Strain-Webber in his next production The Incident Room, written by Olivia Hirst and David Byrne, to be staged this spring.

“I auditioned for this play because I love working with Daniel as a director and the plays he chooses.

As someone who is fairly new to the world of acting, I rely on someone who has the experience, patience and ability to believe in me, the cast and the entirety of the play, to lead and bring out the best of my potential,” Lina says.

“After being cast for Earthquakes in London last year, I knew I had caught the bug and I was just waiting for the next fix, another opportunity to audition.”

Lina describes her current role as ‘much out of her comfort zone’: “I originally read for a different part during auditions. However, when I was cast to play the role of Sylvia Swanson, I was incredibly excited because of the impact her 38

"I knew I had caught the bug and I was just waiting for the next fix."

linguists to rehearsals, to help polish the cast’s accents, and has assigned all actors ‘homework’ in researching the Yorkshire ripper’s case files and to watch documentaries.

character has on the play, and her sassy attitude towards the maledominated Seventies’ workplace.”

“Sylvia's personality is completely opposite to mine, and this is where the challenge lies but it also the best part about it,” Lina says. She relishes the chance to

The Incident Room is a ‘beautifully written play’, according to Lina. It goes behind the scenes of a case which almost broke the British police force. It is set in 1975, when the Millgarth incident room in Leeds became the epicenter of the ‘biggest manhunt in British history, to identify and arrest the notorious serial killer dubbed the Yorkshire Ripper.

The script is fast-paced and hectic, following the progress of the police force working around the clock and ‘resorting to increasingly audacious attempts to end one man’s campaign of terror’, while balancing public opinion’s outrage, media scaremongering, and mounting political pressure.

Authenticity goes all the way for the director, who has invited

drama "I still remember the sheer feelings of panic and pure stage fright!" become someone else: “To be a different person and explore the human behaviour in ways that you wouldn't otherwise be able to.”

Born in Norway and landed in Gibraltar in 2000 at the age of fifteen, Lina is a ‘late bloomer’ when it comes to treading the boards: “I’ve always had a passion for theatre, especially comedy, but I’ve always been too scared to participate in it actively.” In 2014, she watched her ‘first pantomime ever’, staged by the Trafalgar Theatre Group, and, persuaded by a friend and active member of the Group, she attended the following year’s auditions: “It was an extremely terrifying first-time audition, but I landed a small part in Sleeping Beauty, in early 2015.

This was my first part, first time on stage, performing in front of a reasonably big audience, and I still remember the sheer feelings of panic and pure stage fright!”

life and the relationships I formed with my fellow actors. What I learned about myself from that experience, I'll take with me forever. It would be hard for me to pick my favourite now, as both the comedy and drama each brings a unique experience to my table.

Each is able to show and teach you different things. But I guess it's always been my passion to make people laugh and comedy is where I feel most alive.”

She professes herself to be a massive fan of the ‘old school of acting’: Robert de Niro, Al Pacino, Dustin Hoffman, Robin William's, Woody Harrelson, Giovanni Ribisi, Juliette Lewis, Susan Sarandon, Meryl Streep. “I'm also big on Quentin Tarantino movies, Pedro Almodóvar, Tim Burton, Martin Scorsese and Stanley Kubrick.”

And to follow their footsteps, she doesn’t rule out the possibility she will one day direct and perhaps write her own play!

Lina, who when isn’t busy acting runs her GFSB award-winning business Shieldmaidens Virtual Assistants, of which she is cofounder, enjoys her home life with four rescue cats, and when possible backpacks across SouthEast Asia. She says she is both lucky and thankful to be part of such a ‘diverse and colourful community’: “Gibraltar is rich with talent in the arts, music and theatre industries, and I hope that despite this new Covid era/world, we will adapt and work together with government to accommodate the continuation and flourishing of the performing arts.”

Thankfully, her stage fright was short-lived and so Lina’s career was launched: “That's all it took, and I was hooked. Since then, I've participated in almost every yearly pantomime, sticking to the goofy, silly, comedy scenes. I thrived in roles such the idiotic comedy villain sidekick.”

In 2019 Lina decided to drop the typecast and venture in a dramatic role, so she auditioned for the critically acclaimed Earthquakes, where she was able to ‘explore a whole new world of acting’.

“That opportunity changed my GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

39

Why the Confidence?

Whereas one couldn’t have been blamed for being cautious with any expectations (and still can’t), there seemed to be a driving force of interest and investment in Gibraltar, underpinned primarily by our Finance Centre, our strength in regulating our financial services and importantly, the fact that we speak English and are subject to British Law. I have referred to these attributes on many occasions in the past, and I will not tire in re-stating that the value of these factors is huge and will, in our view, continue to be the firm basis of our success in the future.

Words expressed by our MD over recent years

“where the world is in

crisis,

the Rock

excels” Words expressed by a private client

Whereas the year 2020 delivered anything but confidence or success and importantly stability, Gibraltar, as has been the case on so many occasions, emerges in good stead.

If you'reLooking lookingforfor bigger picture in property... thethe bigger picture in property?

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literature

GOOSEMAN If there is a perfect time to read a dark, brooding, possibly revelatory novel, it’s winter.

M. G. Sanchez’ latest publication, the fourth of his novels set partly in Gibraltar and with a Gibraltarian protagonist, Gooseman is exactly that kind of novel; a young social misfit struggling to find his place in a society where dysfunction appears more prevalent than outward appearances would suggest.

BY CARMEN ANDERSON

“I REALISED I WAS NOT LIKE THE OTHERS” - GOOSEMAN

P

ublishing under the name of M. G. Sanchez, Gibraltarian author Mark Sanchez spoke to The Gibraltar Magazine about his latest work of fiction.

“Gooseman is about a young Gibraltarian loner (Johann Guzman) who goes to the UK in the 1990s and finds himself ostracised by, and alienated from, those around him,” Mark explains, “I wanted a title that sort of encapsulated the way he is misunderstood by his British coworkers and acquaintances - so I ended up going with ‘Gooseman’, which is the way that the people in the UK mispronounce his surname.” An experience which might resonate among many Gibraltarians who have spent GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

time in the UK is that of the mispronunciation of their names, an almost subliminal dilution of their identity, a subconscious push towards the margins of native British society.

"Outsiders are baffled by Gibraltar."

The novel takes a look at numerous issues from the margins in which its protagonist exists, touching on complex themes recognisable in everyday life. Mark elaborates: “Gooseman is about many things – it is about growing up in the Gibraltar of the 80s and 90s, it is about drug addiction and alcoholism, it is about the legacies of colonialism, it is about

life in contemporary Britain, it is about racism and xenophobia, it is about mental illness, it is about the Brexit mindset, it is about sex and sexism, it is about the discrepancy that exists between the mother country that you learn about at school and the mother country that you actually encounter when you go to live in the UK.” These themes form part of the protagonist’s world, and Mark uses Guzman’s reactions to his experiences to define Guzman’s character. At the same time, he also exposes some of the conflicts and consequences that make these issues so pertinent to modern life.

Johann Guzman stands shoulder to shoulder with some of Mark’s other characters as a loner, a social misfit, someone who struggles to live in the mainstream of society but exists at its edges, 41

literature resonant of characters such as Jonathan Gallardo, in the eponymous novel, and John

Seracino in Solitude House.

Mark explains his choice of character, saying: “Would you be interested in reading about a squeaky-clean, sedentary, wealthy Gibraltarian businessman who leads a privileged life, or would you rather read about someone who’s on the margins of society and who’s led an embattled life full of incident? I think that – usually, not always – people on the margins are more interesting than those at the heart of the establishment.”

This leads, inevitably, to a question about just how much of Mark and his own

"What fascinates them is our hybridity." life experiences is written into his novels. “My novels are a big mashup of influences,” he says, “I mix all sort of things in them what I’ve heard, what I’ve read, what I’ve been told about, what I’ve experienced myself, what others have experienced. I call it ‘the blender effect’ – chuck it all in and see what comes out.”

Mark’s writing has brought him success at home and abroad, earning him an award in 2020 as Cultural Ambassador for Gibraltar, a worthy recognition of how his non-fiction books, collections of short stories and his four novels have garnered international readership and interest from literary critics and academics in countries such as USA, New Zealand, Spain and Germany as well as UK. “Outsiders are baffled

by Gibraltar,” Mark observes, “and we don’t exactly make things easy for them by pretending to be more British than Marmite or Big Ben. What fascinates them, above all, I think, is our hybridity, the fact that we are neither fish nor fowl, as the saying goes. Our code-switching, our bilingualism, our cosmopolitan roots: these are the things that foreign readers are interested in.”

Gooseman is as compelling a read as it is dark, as dryly humorous as it is shocking in places, making Mark’s latest novel the perfect winter read.

M. G. Sanchez 42

Buy your copy of Gooseman on Amazon now.

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music

LOOK AT ME NOW

“I won't lie, I made mistakes in life. I cannot change those mistakes. However, I can and will try to inspire the next generation to avoid my mistakes. It is all too easy to be tempted by quick money, which is often a short term solution in life, sometimes with a fatal ending. In building strong foundations in children and young adults we will build better people. This is my ethos.” (Fekky)

BY CARMEN ANDERSON

G

rime rapper Fekky’s recent visit to Gibraltar was his first, a supposedly exploratory trip. Instead, he told Gibraltar Magazine, it sparked off a fresh inspiration, a vision for Gibraltar, the possibility to make it a luxury music venue, offering many genres of music across the rock: “You have so much to offer a musician like me,” he observed.

Fekky had travelled from London, a city in the throes of dealing with the deadliest pandemic in a century. And yet the real fear for many South Londoners is the wildfire spread of knife crime; the victims, more often than not, young people. For the grime MC and hugely successful rapper, South London isn’t just home, it’s his inspiration, not just for hard-hitting lyrics, but for what he aims to achieve for young people experiencing the harshness of inner-city life as he did.

“I had never considered Gibraltar before,” Fekky explained, “but a lady who supports my work at CC 44

Foundation suggested I explore Gibraltar.” This lady was a military mum with links to The Rock.

Fekky was introduced to Michael

"I was sold on Gibraltar!"

Sanchez who welcomed him with typical Gibraltarian hospitality, showed him the sights, introduced him to people and taught him the history. “I was sold on Gibraltar!” was his verdict.

Music was Fekky’s pathway to success. As a South Londoner, grime, hip hop, and rap comes to him as second nature, a passion, his personal “freedom of expression”. Focusing on making music changed his life, he explained, saying: “Lyric writing is an art form where we can tell our story and free our emotions.”

But it takes more than love of music and a knack of writing powerful lyrics to achieve success

in the tough music business. To achieve his dream Fekky had to become a skilled self-publicist and his talent was quickly recognised by the urban music world with the likes of GRM Daily, SBTV and Pac Man TV. “I am not 100% sure mainstream media are fully accepting of grime,” he commented.

Fekky’s tenacity and drive as a rap artist, as well as his difficult experiences as a young man growing up in a tough city, propelled him into charity work.

His charity, CC Foundation, is aimed at supporting black talent within music and the arts. Fekky openly admits that he has made mistakes in life which cannot be changed, but he is committed to inspiring the next generation and supporting them so that they can avoid these mistakes.

His ethos is that “in building strong foundations in children and young adults, we will build better people.” To Fekky, making social change is now more important than ever, especially with knife crimes in London at GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

music "Lyric writing is an art form where we can tell our story." artist will impact young minds and is attempting to provide a positive influence to young people; fortunate to have parents who taught him work ethics, he understands that not every child has strong role models. Becoming a father was life changing and he said, “CC Foundation is based on my parenting and my parents, sharing the passion to build strong people.”

With a deep concern for environmental issues, Fekky launched his own electric vehicle range called ‘Skrrrtech’. Having an insight into the struggles many young adults in London experience in funding driving lessons as well as his commitment to improve the environment, he adds, “having an electric powered vehicle is cost effective and a green way to get around town.

epic proportions. CC Foundation is Fekky’s way of building “foundations for the future” and of generating social change.

Also accomplished in business, Fekky has partnered with GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

brands such as Barclay’s Bank and Experian to teach young adults about credit score; “If you cannot manage money, you cannot manage a business” he pointed out. He would like to think that his fame as an urban

Fekky loved his stay in Gibraltar, where he had the opportunity of experiencing spectacular views from the top of the rock. He also visited St. Michael’s Cave, immediately recognising it as an opportunity for an exclusive music venue. “I was made to feel very special,” he commented mentioning his welcome at No. 6, and the messages he received via his Instagram from local people, adding that “warmth came from every direction.”

Fekky’s relationship with Gibraltar is only just beginning, we hope, with a number of ideas for projects already being planned.

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short stories

SHORT STORIES

This is a reimagined version of Cinderella and how she came to be who we know her as today. The story ends right before the arrival of her stepmother, who we know will not give her the life she desires or deserves. It is meant to reflect the cruel irony of our thoughts; how we sometimes interpret things in a way which will later prove to be untrue.

BY ANA SHARMA

The Reimagination of a Most Beloved Story Ella stood facing the window, her slim fingers placed over the delicate-looking glass, the very image of idyllic elegance. Her long, brown curls hung over her shoulder, ruffled and rebellious, as she gazed out of the window, her eyes brown and unblinking, quietly surveying the outside world. She sat on the window ledge, a thick volume lying on her lap, untouched. The cries of children and their subsequent peals of laughter were keenly observed by her, a gentle smile tugging at the edge of her lips, a sort of silent joy overtaking her. She took great pleasure in observing the world, in its still and rather immovable state, and its often immediate juxtaposition of unmistakable sonority. It instilled a sense of constancy, of never-changing movement, in her life, particularly when she found herself entangled, ever so deeply, in the folds of misery.

It was widely acknowledged, by all who had the pleasure of knowing Ella, that she did not have a propensity for misery or anything GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

of the like. Indeed, she was a figure of great brightness and joy, and it often seemed as though nothing could dampen such inherent cheeriness. But as of late, a heavy cloud had hung over her head, suppressing all such joy, so that only misery, and misery alone, occupied her bosom. She felt numb, and a stranger to all feelings. In the depths of such misery, she would often wonder whether this emptiness, this painstaking sadness, that filled her heart would ever depart from her.

What would happen if these days stretched themselves into weeks, months, and even years? How often these thoughts entered her mind, I cannot definitively say, but that it was often enough can be sufficed. It seemed as though hope had quite acquitted her.

It had all begun with the death of her beloved father. He had been an intelligent man, capable of great tenderness. A strong proficient of the Law, he was rigorous and hardworking, a friend to all, and above all, the greatest father Ella could have hoped for.

The day Ella’s mother had passed had been a very sorry day indeed.

He had not felt such pain equal to it before. His wise and selfless wife, the love of his life, was gone. Bitterness encompassed his heart. And indeed, for many days, he locked himself in his chambers, weeping tears of remorse, of anger, of anguish, and then acceptance. So engulfed in his own deep-seated grief was he that he forgot his daughter. It was only when, upon briefly leaving his chambers to relieve himself, that he heard the gentle sobs of a distressed soul, namely, his daughter. It was in that moment that he truly knew himself. From that rather sobering moment, her father vowed to ease his daughter’s sorrow and reacquaint her with joy. And so it was. But it was a very long time until they both recovered, and happiness reentered their home once more.

It seemed to Ella that happiness was a flighty, unnatural thing that occasionally flitted from door to door. It was not a constant state of being, but a mere stroke of luck whenever it chose to make an appearance. Her father had been the light of her life; he had taught her the greatest of lessons, and 47

short stories cultivated her love of books and stories and magic. He had taught her the importance of faith and gathering strength from it. And indeed, when this odd stillness came over her, she did.

However, during this unpleasant affair, there was one thing that did comfort Ella. For it was during her father’s more frequent travels that he had made a rather interesting acquaintance. She was a marquess, famed for her unequaled beauty and dinner parties. Her father had seemed wholly enchanted by her, as Ella observed upon his return. He had spoken of nothing else, a faint glimmer of hope pervading his eyes. Ella saw it. She saw it and grew fearful, feeling protective over her mother and the marriage she had idealised for so long.

But she also saw her father’s happiness, the sudden stroke of youthfulness in his face. She could not recall when she had last seen him look that way. And surely, if he was falling in love with this marquess, she thought, she must be a simply wonderful woman! How could she interfere when her father’s happiness was at stake? She could not, and from that moment, she made certain to smile brightly and appear attentive as he spoke of her. What he told of this marquess filled her heart with hope, overtime. Their house had long yearned for a warm, motherly figure to fill its walls with music and laughter and happiness.

And indeed, a year after that, it was so. Her father and her new stepmother Anne, the marquess, married, in a quiet ceremony, with her two daughters and the priest as witnesses.

Though she had not yet met her new stepmother, she could 48

deeply empathise with the grief that she was certain was ever present to her. Her arrival had been imminent, until the news of her father’s passing had reached her. Nonetheless, she was due to arrive in a fortnight. Ella felt the chill within her evaporate, as she pondered on the great pleasure of having a mother to comfort her. She wondered what her stepmother looked like, how she spoke, and how she would receive her. With lingering hope in her heart, Ella smiled, believing that the worst was behind her, and with her stepmother’s arrival would come the arrival of happiness and a new life for her.

Want to know how this story ends? That’s up to you! We’re asking Gib Mag readers to come up with a concluding paragraph, and email them in to editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com for a chance to be featured. We’re looking forward to seeing your entries! *** As you may have seen in our December issue, author Ana Sharma provided us with a cliffhanger that needed a conclusion in her story A Christmas Adventure. Thank you to all who sent in their concluding paragraphs! Here is our winner: He slowly pushed open the door… there was a dim light but still light enough to see. River stared, the cold wind hit his face and then he felt something soft on his ankle…

It was a wing; an injured one. The dim light was losing its energy, and then a voice, the sweetest voice: “I am an Angel from God, please help me”. River was now frightened but curious at the same time as the light drew him in.

“How did you get here?” River asked.

“I fell,” said the Angel.

“From Heaven?” asked River.

“Yes.” River took off his dressing gown belt and wrapped it around the injured wing, which suddenly began to glow brighter and white.

“Thank-you, boy” said the Angel, “for your kindness I will grant you a Christmas wish.”

“What I would like is for my Dad to be here for Christmas; he has been working away for months and he does not know if he can get here for Christmas day.”

At that moment the light shone so bright that River had to cover his eyes. Suddenly, the light went out and the Angel was gone. River felt the cold again, closed the door and went back into his bed.

Christmas Day, it had snowed.

River looked out of the window there was a path of large foot prints towards the house. River put on his dressing gown and ran down the stairs. He could smell sausages and could hear laughter…

He went into the kitchen and saw both his parents preparing the turkey! River ran and jumped up to hug his Dad. “Merry Christmas Son, I made it.”

“River,” Mum asked, “where is your belt?”

River replied: “I gave it to an injured Angel in the night.”

With that, Mum & Dad laughed.

“Let’s eat!”

By Flor-de-liz Latorre GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

" In the midst of storms and haze, a beacon of light emerges which illuminates and guides you on the path to everlasting success."

creative marketing agency wearethebulb.com

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

art WHAT YOU WILL NEED: PAPER PENCIL ERASER RULER

RT CLUB

COLOURING PENCILS, CRAYONS OR PAINT (OPTIONAL)

How to draw the Cable Car in 6 easy steps.

BY BEA GARCIA

T

he Gibraltar Cable Car was built in 1966 and has been bringing entertainment to Gibraltar and its tourists ever since. Originally a Swiss design, it was built by Cable Car manufacturer, Von Roll. In its 55 years of existence it has been showing off views of 2 continents and the meeting point of the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. As you may have heard, MH Bland’s new Cable Car project has been given the green light, so expect to see big changes coming soon!

STEP 1 Draw a rectangle 9cm wide by 6.5cm high. Your cable car will fit within this rectangle.

Use dashed lines as you will want to erase this grid later.

Let’s draw in the main body of GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

51

art the cable car. You will want to draw a three sided rectangle as you can see in the drawing where the main body of the cable car is 3cm long and the side of the cable car is 1cm long. Start with the largest rectangle at the front which measures 3cm wide by 2cm high.

Then draw in the side of the cable car which is 1cm wide by 2cm high. This rectangle should slope up away from you. Once those

diagonal lines as per the reference image.

STEP 3

the cable car. Then split each of those sections into two again with another line through the centre.

Now to draw in the mechanics that join the cable car to the cable on which it is suspended. Draw in 2 rectangles which are 0.5cm wide and which reach to the back of the cable car. For the rectangle on the right hand side draw a rectangle above it which leans towards the

The result should be 4 equal sections of the cable car. See the image for reference.

STEP 5 two rectangles are drawn in, draw in the top rectangle by drawing lines parallel to the edges of the rectangles you have just drawn.

STEP 2 Now to draw in the base of the cable car. Draw in a rectangle below the main body of the cable

Rub out the excess lines. left as per the diagram. For the rectangle on the left hand side, draw 2 diagonal lines to meet the diagonal rectangle you have just drawn.

STEP 4 Time to add in the cable line as well as some of the finer details.

To add in the cable, start from the furthest left corner of the original 9cm by 6.5cm that you drew in step 1. From that corner measure 2.8cm down. From this point 2.8cm down draw a diagonal line up to the top right hand corner of your dashed rectangle.

car and a smaller rectangle below the side of your cable car. Adjust the rectangles by adding in some 52

STEP 6 As a final touch why not add a splash of colour? I’ve added in the Rock of Gibraltar motif on the side of the Cable Car but feel free to decorate it anyway you like.

We would love to see your finished entries! Tag @thegibraltarmagazine and @b_garcia_art on Instagram for a chance to be featured.

To add the window details, draw in a thin rectangle for the main windows and a small square on the side for the side window. To draw the doors of the cable car, draw one line down the middle of GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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BOOKISH...

Join us for our monthly book club!

BY JOEL FRANCIS

H

appy New Year! I hope you had a safe and fun festive period, and that you're ready for some new books. I've got some fantastic recommendations for you that will start your year off right. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

CALL HIM MINE Tim MacGabhann Genre: Thriller For Fans Of: Mark O'Connell What’s in the pages? Andrew and his photographer boyfriend, Carlos, are sick of telling just another story: from cartel massacres to corrupt politicians, sifting the dregs of Mexico's drug war, they think they've seen it all.

But when they find a body even the police are too scared to look at, what started as just another report becomes a story they've always dreamed of. Until Carlos winds up murdered, leaving Andrew looking for revenge.

Caught in a web of dirty money that stretches from the boardrooms of the United States to the death squads of El Salvador, Andrew must decide whether to save himself - or find out who killed the man he loves.

Why should you read it? I really loved this book, but I have no idea why - I've been trying to decipher exactly what I liked about it for a couple of days now and still no luck. This novel is a thriller that grows on you but will hook you right away, it starts with a bang and doesn't let up until the very last page, but it's also a novel about grief - and that grief runs throughout the undercurrent of this book.

Then once you finish this novel and you've been on a rollercoaster with Andrew while he mourns Carlos' death and tries to avenge him. You're left with a big gaping hole in your chest because an incredible book has just wrecked your feelings.

I highly recommend this book if you want to get lost in a world of crime and mystery in the new year!

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY Matt Haig Genre: Contemporary Fiction For Fans Of: Claire Nelson What’s in the pages? Beyond the edge of the universe, there's a library with an infinite number of books, each a story of another reality. One tells of your life as it is, and another tells the story of a life you could have lived if you had made a different choice.

One night, Nora Seed is faced with the possibility of changing her life for a new one, undoing all the regrets she has had in life. As she travels through the books in the Midnight Library, she must search within herself to decide what is fulfilling in life and what makes it worth living.

Why should you read it? The Midnight Library is a book about regrets and what we would do if we had the chance to change those regrets without consequence. This is a heartbreaking, tragic book, but it's also a book full of hope and humour. While those two things wouldn't usually work side by side when tried by most authors, Haig handles it amazingly well and you don't even question the duality until you reflect on this book.

This is a story about feeling grateful for what you have and realising that while life might seem better if you'd made a different choice, you'd probably have regrets either way. It's a touching narrative that's similar to It's a Wonderful Life.

In my opinion, this is an essential read to help people get through lockdown, and it's Matt Haig at his best. It's also Dolly Parton's favourite book right now, and she has excellent taste!

THE SECRET COMMONWEALTH Philip Pullman Genre: Adventure

For Fans Of: Philip Pullman

What’s in the pages? It is seven years since readers left Lyra at the end of His Dark Materials sequence. In the Secret Commonwealth, we meet Lyra Silvertongue at twenty years old, as she is plunged into a complicated and dangerous world she had no idea existed.

Lyra and her daemon must travel far beyond her safe world of Oxford, across Europe and Asia in search of a city haunted by daemons and a secret at the heart of a desert, and, of course, Dust.

Why should you read it? Philip Pullman is a genius at his craft and always a joy to read. This book hooks you almost immediately when it opens with a conflict between Lyra and her daemon Pantalaimon that threatens to tear them apart.

This story shows a very different side to Lyra, she's an adult and has a more complicated arc in this book than in His Dark Materials, where she was a child, and I would even go as far as calling her unlikable. That might be a struggle for a lot of people to come to terms with - and it makes this book unpopular with a many. But I loved this book; it was an adult take on a story that I adored as a child, and it was very welcome.

This is a dark, gritty take on the world and characters we've come to know and love in His Dark Materials and the prequel to this book The Belle Sauvage, but as the original fans of those books are now adults, it's great to revisit that world from an adult's point of view and have a more serious story to contend with.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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SPIRIT OF THE AUTHOR Speaking to Joe Caruana, 10 years after the success of his first book.

BY JEREMY GOMEZ

“I

t was really a trail of minor successes, I went up and up.” This short autobiographical phrase comes from Joe Caruana, a local author of historical fact and historical fiction, a politician who built up the face of Gibraltar, a salesman of ingenuity, a healer working in drug rehabilitation and an artist of still life and in real life.

Joe has spent the last fifty years of his life excelling in various industries, numerous causes and crafts, a jack of all trades and even a master of some; a true polifacético.

has been an unplanned natural progression but a progression with intention of serving: serving art, serving others, and serving his Gibraltar.

Serving art, serving others, and serving his Gibraltar.

The trail begins during World War Two: A child of the evacuation, Joe entered into this world with an education deferred as the war meant that he only began to learn to read and write when he was eight years old. The first big opportunity to grow, came with the opportunity to become a draftsman. This step allowed him an opportunity in the UK, where his studies continued.

This year he celebrates his first decade as an established Gibraltarian author as ten years have passed since his first book, an autobiography that travels that trail of minor successes, titled Spirit of the Phoenician. Since that first book, four others have followed in quick succession, including two biographies, one historical crime novel that turned out to be real, and a historical novel that could very well be real. Joe is an author whose life 56

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

literature of perspective and the consideration of colour.

Interestingly it was a foundational skill that he brought to Gibraltarian politics as his next step began in 1966, when Joe joined the Integration with Britain Party under the leadership of Sir Robert Peliza, the subject of his first biography, The Life and Times of Sir Robert Peliza.

Working in the UK, Joe found himself a master of serendipity; a chance meeting in a fish market led to Joe importing fish to Gibraltar, and small talk with a shop attendant led to selling undergarments in the UK. At one point, Joe moved back to Gibraltar and opened two fish stores and a wholesale. It is this entrepreneurial momentum that took Joe up and up as these minor successes accumulated over time.

His work as a draftsman led to Joe becoming an industrial engineer working with industrial diamond tools, but just as this logical practicality may have set the trajectory of his career, it also developed the keen artistic eye, which he believes was the basis of his creativity: the eye for proportion, the importance GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

In 1969, Joe was invited to form part of Sir Peliza’s government as Minister for Health and Minister for Public Services.

It was during this time that Joe orchestrated projects all around Gibraltar, taking responsibility for a period with the most public works in Gibraltar, including Varyl Begg Estate, the original Primary Care Centre (and its services), and the beautification of Devil’s Tower Road. The work of building up Gibraltar on the grand political scale was only part of a job well done; for Joe, after twelve years living in Canada, spent the next fourteen years setting up and running Camp Emmanuel from 1987, a drug rehabilitation centre for building up Gibraltarians on the individual, spiritual level, after his ‘eyes were opened’ in Canada.

And then, after an MBE, open heart surgery, and his marriage to his wonderful wife, Joe has worked on cultivating his craft as an artist of ‘reasonably priced’ still

Joe found himself a master of serendipity. life paintings, but his prime focus over the last ten years has been the written word.

After Spirit of the Phonecian that chronicles his family history and his own life, Joe wrote When the Hangman Came, about the Opisso murder that took place in the house beside his childhood home, the story always intrigued him after hearing what had occurred before his family had arrived.

The book tells a true murder story and argues that justice was miscarried as an innocent man was sent to the gallows. The Iron Knight of Malta came next; a historical novel based on the story of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and the hero of the story, the Order’s Grand Master, Jean de la Valette and their battle for Malta. Two biographies then followed, the aforementioned account of Sir Peliza’s life and Eyes Set on Heaven, the biography of Joe’s late brother Bishop Charles Caruana. This last biography was a challenge but allowed Joe deeper insight into the man that was his companion, best friend, confessor, and brother.

The remarkable thing about these five books is that though they are small steps and minor successes, they have a full life and deep love enriched in their pages. They are fruit from an artist living a well lived life. Minor successes along a road towards excellence.

57

leisure EXTREMADURA

Hidden gems of the western autonomous community bordering Portugal.

BY PETE WOLSTENCROFT

E

xtremadura: even the name is redolent of myths and legends. There are those who believe that the etymology of its name is derived from a Latin phrase meaning a far off and harsh land. Others favour a corruption – from the same language – of a land beyond the Duero River.

Whatever your preference, Extremadura remains a mystery even to the vast majority of Spaniards, for whom it is a place to traverse on the way to the Costa del Sol or Portugal.

That said, it makes sense to deal with some of the basics.

Extremadura is the fifth largest of Spain’s 17 autonomous communities. It is bordered by: Castilla y León in the north, Castilla La Mancha in the east, Andalucía to the south and Portugal to the west. At just over 42,000 square kilometres, it is 58

bigger than Switzerland.

Comprised of two provinces, Badajoz and Cáceres (respectively the biggest and second biggest provinces in Spain), it is a land of huge contrasts. Many Spanish people cling to the notion that it is a barren desert, riven by poverty and drought: a notion popularised many years ago by the film director, Luis Buñuel whose depiction of rural poverty in the film Las Hurdes – Tierra Sin Pan has overstayed its welcome in the Spanish national psyche.

"Take two medium sized lizards…"

The truth, as ever, is more nuanced. Cáceres province is a place of cherry blossoms,

mountain streams that form waterfalls and swimming holes and some of the most spectacular wildlife in Spain. The city of Cáceres is a place for history buffs. A place of dainty porticoed squares overlooked by imposing granite towers and characterised by the three most typical strata of history in the area: Roman, Visigothic and Moorish. In the Casco Histórico ancient buildings are not set aside as museums, but are incorporated into everyday life. Great palaces are inhabited by mundane arms of the government going about their business issuing permits, levying fines and collecting taxes.

The presence of the Atrio hotel and restaurant complex, complete with two Michelin stars means that foodies from all over Spain now converge on Cáceres for its cutting-edge gastronomy. It was not always that way. Extremadura does have the reputation of being GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

travel It is a sight that, once seen, is seldom forgotten. the poorest region in Spain and its people have long had to make do with the cheapest cuts of meat and lowly offal. The first time I visited the city, I saw a restaurant offering: ‘lagarto en salsa verde’ (lizard in green sauce) and the recipe book I bought on that day features a recipe for this dish – long since made illegal – that starts with the memorable phrase: ‘Take two medium sized lizards…’

If gastronomy is not your thing, you might want to get a breath of fresh air and experience some of the wildlife of Cáceres province.

Monfragüe is one of Spain’s newest national parks and among its most spectacular. Most of the action happens at the junction of two rivers: the Tajo and the Tiétar, where serious birdwatchers and those of a more casual bent come together at the cliff face known officially as Peña Falcón, but more popularly referred to as ‘El Salto del Gitano’ (The Gypsy’s Leap).

The ornithological attractions include: large numbers of white storks, almost guaranteed sightings of the much rarer black

stork, peregrine falcons and large numbers of griffon vultures. The best time to see the latter is after a heavy downpour. Vultures don’t like the rain and when faced with a soaking will retreat to interior caves to shelter. Once the rain stops and the temperature begins to climb again, these lugubrious birds shuffle to the cliff edge and stretch their wings out to dry in the strengthening sunshine. After ten minutes or so – with flight feathers sufficiently dried out – they launch themselves from the cliff face in a series of test flights.

It is a sight that, once seen, is seldom forgotten.

Moving south into Badajoz A reflection of the New Bridge over the River Guadiana taken from the Roman Bridge.

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travel province, your first port of call may well be Mérida, the capital of the region (though not of the province) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Outside the city of Rome itself, there is no better place in the world to get an impression of what life was like in the days of the Roman Empire.

History flows out of every pore of the city.

Founded in 25 BC as a retirement home for Legionaries who had distinguished themselves in the service of the empire, Mérida – then known as Emerita Augusta – became capital of the Roman Province of Lusitania. Its wealth and status ensured plenty of building work. The old city is still linked to its new counterpart by a Roman bridge. The villas of the merchant classes can still be seen, as can the hippodromes, where a love of chariot racing could be indulged. And visitors to the amphitheatre can still emerge blinking in the fierce sunlight onto the same sand that welcomed the gladiators. It is easy to imagine these ancient warriors casting a prayer to their gods as they wondered what nature of ordeal awaited them.

to Eurasian cranes, azure winged magpies and, most famously of all, to the black Iberian pigs that roam the dehesa.

This is the Rolls Royce of hams.

You may have had jamón serrano, but believe me, you have not had real thing until you have tried jamón ibérico de bellota.

This is the Rolls Royce of hams and comes from those privileged black pigs that have spent the last six months of their lives happily foraging for acorns amongst the holm oaks – little suspecting the fate that is theirs. The most prestigious brands command upwards of €1,000 for a single ham. Expensive it may be, but it is also a lifesaver. True acorn-fed ham not only lowers cholesterol, but it is also known to reduce blood pressure. (I have seen the

science and it is true.) But how to tell if your plate holds the real thing or some lesser product? A plate of acorn fed ham can be inverted over one’s head and the ham will stick to the plate – such is the unctuous richness of its fat content. If you don’t want to run the risk of wearing your dinner, there is another test. Take a piece of the fat and rub it between forefinger and thumb. If it is the real McCoy, the fat will disappear leaving you with shiny fingers and the happy knowledge that you are about to indulge in the best ham on the face of the earth.

In this era of Covid–19, any plans to visit Extremadura may well have to be shelved for the time being. But when the pandemic has faded away into the darker cupboards of your memory, why not try a trip to that far off and harsh land? I can guarantee you won’t regret it.

Outside the city, much of the land is given over to the dehesa – vast groves of holm oak trees that make up the most typically extremeño landscape. The hardy holm oak needs little water, can withstand extremes of temperature and requires so little soil that it is not uncommon to see them growing from barren granite.

Where there are oaks, there are acorns. In hard times, humans have often eaten acorns as a last resort. The post war years of hunger have long gone, but the acorns still provide nourishment 60

A Spanish fighting bull in the typical Dehesa landscape

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

food has seen Vicky cook prestigious dinners for well-respected companies at reputable venues in the area. Today, you might recognise Vicky from popular TV show Rock Chef where she is a judge. Her passion for the food industry is unbeatable and Vicky’s fun loving and warming attitude has been refreshing.

F

ounded by Gibraltar’s TV chef Vicky Bishop in 2017, Vicky’s Natural Kitchen is Gibraltar’s and the Costa del Sol’s go to caterer and events co-ordinator. Vicky is passionate about creating food that is vibrant, seasonal, healthy and, of course, delicious. Vicky’s Natural Kitchen has been offering Gibraltarians and tourists alike healthy and delicious food for almost 2 years. However, founder, Vicky, begun her culinary journey 29 years ago with a small company she ran from home, providing corporate catering for Gibraltar’s

growing private banking and law community.

Vicky is a qualified Health Supportive and vegan cuisine chef, receiving training at the Natural Gourmet Institute in NY and additionally, under Mark Reinfield.

Vicky has worked abroad as a member of the International Festival’s International Chef Exchange, and given cooking demonstrations across the globe.

Her catering business has gone from strength to strength and

With a dining room upstairs, Vicky’s Natural Kitchen is a perfect lunch spot for those looking for a healthy and fresh alternative, catering extensively for vegans, vegetarians and those with food intolerances. Now also available for pre-booked high teas.

2020 has been a great year for Vicky and her team; they have placed a huge focus on hosting various cooking classes as you may have seen on her Facebook page (facebook.com/ vickysnaturalkitchen). The space at Vicky’s Natural Kitchen is available for private hire for all event types, including Christening, birthday and engagement parties.

It is modern and sits 20 people, offering guests an intimate and unique dining experience.

Catering and events is at the heart of Vicky’s Natural Kitchen, whether it’s a formal special occasion, a relaxed family gathering or corporate Christmas party, Vicky has you covered.

Vicky and her dedicated team will offer you an event to remember, impressing you and your guests with her bespoke menus which focus on fresh and seasonal produce.

For more information contact admin@vbc.gi or follow Vicky on Instagram: vicky_bishop_catering, Facebook: Vicky's Natural Kitchen, or visit www.vbc.gi.

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food

LIVING ON THE VEG Keep Veganuary simple and spicy.

BY ELENA SCIALTIEL

O

wner of the only vegan eatery in Gibraltar no animal produce, honey included, goes beyond the atmospheric, penny-tiled steps of The Kasbar - entrepreneuse Lisanka Trinidad, who ‘converted’ to veganism in October 2015, gives us a few tips on how to embark on a plantbased diet whether for a month, just to stick to Veganuary, the trendy January detox, or for a lifetime of empathy to our fellow animals.

“The key is cooking for yourself whenever possible, and trying to ‘veganise’ your favourite dishes, so you don’t feel like you’re missing out. Look for inspiration online: the rise of veganism in the past ten years has sparked a wealth of vegan blogs to explore,” Lisanka says.

She warns that your body will have to cope with the increased fibre intake, which for you’ll have to gradually train it. She also warns prospective vegans to make sure they don’t suffer from alimentary intolerances or allergies to nuts, pulses or

mushrooms. Once you get the green light from your digestive system, your imagination is the only limit to your menu: you can draw inspiration from ethnic cuisines like Mexican, big on beans, or Indian and middle-eastern, big on pulses and chickpeas, or you can try and veganise your classics, like lasagne, shepherd’s pie and even meatballs!

“Gibraltar’s national dish, calentita, is indeed vegan, so you can start from there; although as a Gibraltarian, the hardest part for me was giving up pescaito for ever. Yet I didn’t have to give up albondigas en salsa: I can still make them with mashed lentils, and the secret of their flavour lies in the sauce and the seasoning.”

Don’t be disheartened if you relapse: “Adapting to any change of lifestyle and diet can be difficult. If you give in and have a bit of cheese and wine with friends, don’t give up! Just continue with your next meal.”

The good news, she says, is that you can find locally a selection

of vegan alternatives to your favourite foods. She recommends The Nutty Artisan Food Co. for your cheese-fix: “It’s an artisan range of plant-based cheeses.

One of my favourites is their camembree, mimicking camembert without using one drop of animal milk.”

Your imagination is the only limit to your menu.

The Muscle Bakery are ‘wizards in the kitchen’, she says, for low-sugar, gluten-free and vegan chocolate bars and donuts. And to appease your sweet tooth, a visit to Mrs Wheelmaker Bakes is a must to stock on cupcakes, cakes, cookies and brownies.

“And the Health Store just down the road stocks edible and nonedible vegan products, like soap and other toiletries,” adds Lisanka, who sources from them the exotic jackfruit she employs in her pulled pork-inspired recipes.

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food Lisanka first switched to a plant-based diet after a few members of her family were diagnosed with breast cancer: “Researching medical studies, I learnt how breast cancer is linked to the consumption of dairy products. Doctors treating my family members for the disease recommended limiting or avoiding altogether their dairy intake, and that stuck with me.”

At first, she decided to steer clear from dairy only, but she went all the way: “I set myself a target of getting to the end of that month without touching animal products or by-products. I really enjoy cooking, and found the challenge of making something completely vegan that all my family could enjoy really fun. After six months of following this new lifestyle, I decided not to go back to the old diet I was brought up on. I had already been toying with the idea of opening my own café in Gibraltar, so I opened it with my friend and co-founder Ronnie Alecio, with the wish for everyone in Gibraltar, vegan or otherwise, to enjoy an exclusively plantbased meal that is delicious as well as wholesome.”

The Kasbar is now a Trip Advisor hotspot.

Lisanka tries and tests all dishes she serves in her restaurant, now a TripAdvisor hotspot for its food, its heritage, and its cultural initiatives, like live music and poetry nights. She has introduced to Gibraltar ‘buffalo’ cauliflower and ‘smocked’ salmon, made with carrots marinated in nori seaweed, smoked paprika and 64

other ingredients, served in a New York style bagel with cashew cheese. “Obviously it is not exactly the same, but pretty close. And vegan dishes provide alternative nutrients to omnivorous diets.”

The main reason for Lisanka to stick to veganism isn’t just her personal health, but the health of the planet and all its living creatures: humans, as rational beings, should not be the direct cause for animal suffering. She envisaged a greener habitat where pastures are replaced by organic crops, and cattle, nowadays exploited by farmers into reproducing at ‘an alarming rate’, will roam free in the wilderness, their population balanced within their ecosystem. Humans should not be speciesist: they cannot claim they love cats and dogs and then happily go eat calves, piglets and lambs, as Lisanka points out.

In her opinion, vegans are sneered at by those uncomfortable with confronting reality: the non-sustainability of current food consumption and waste in western society, which is spiralling the planet’s resources potentially into extinction.

Veganism equals pacifism for Lisanka, as it plays its part in saving our environment; everyone should work towards this goal together, whether for one month or for a lifetime.

So, why not giving Veganuary a go? And whilst you’re at it, why not rounding it up with Drynuary, alcohol-free for the whole month too?

Visit The Kasbar on 5 Castle Street, or find them on Facebook, Instagram. Telephone them on: +350 200 70114.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

Buy 1 get 1 for a penny Mix & match on 100s of products Keeping you on track...

By looking after your wellness for less

Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medications or under medical supervision, please consult a doctor or healthcare professional before use. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if adverse reactions occur. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place. Do not use if seal under cap is broken or missing.

T’s & C’s APPLY. Subject to Availability.

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food

Vegan Shepherds Pie Filling •

2 medium red onions

•

1 celery stick

•

4 sun-dried tomatoes, plus 2 tbsp oil from the jar

•

1 sprig fresh rosemary

•

3 sprigs fresh thyme

•

1 large carrot

•

500g mushrooms

•

2 tbsp tomato purée

•

1 tbsp yeast extract (e.g.

Marmite)

•

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

•

250ml red wine

•

100ml vegetable stock

•

400g pre-cooked puy lentils

•

salt and black pepper

Potato Topping •

1.2kg Maris Piper or other floury potatoes

•

40g dairy-free butter

66

•

150ml unsweetened plantbased milk

•

1 tbsp Dijon mustardFirst make a start on the potato topping. Peel and chop the potatoes into large chunks.

Put in a saucepan, cover with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt.

Put over a high heat, bring to the boil and cook for 12–15 minutes. Drain into a colander and leave to dry. Tip back into the pan

Now to the filling. Peel and finely dice the red onions and celery.

Peel and grate the garlic. Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes.

Remove the leaves from the rosemary and thyme by running your thumb and forefinger from the top to the base of the stems (the leaves should easily come away), then finely chop. Peel and finely chop the carrot. Put the mushrooms in the food processor and blitz to mince.

Put the second saucepan over a medium heat. Pour in the sun-dried tomato oil. Add the onion and a small pinch of salt.

Fry for 5 minutes, stirring. Add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, rosemary and thyme and cook for 2 minutes. Add the carrot and celery and stir for 4–5 minutes.

by The Kasbar

Add the mushrooms, turn up the heat slightly and stir for 2–3 minutes, until the mushrooms start to sweat. Reduce the heat and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir the tomato purée into the pan. Add the yeast extract and balsamic vinegar and stir for 1 minute. Add the red wine, stock and lentils, turn up the heat and simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes.

Taste, season and take off the heat.

Mash the potatoes. Add the dairyfree butter, milk and mustard to the potatoes and mash until really smooth. Taste and season.

Spread the filling over the bottom of the lasagne dish. Spoon the potato into the piping bag, if using, and pipe tightly packed walnut-sized whips of potato all over, otherwise spoon over the potato and spread it out with the back of a spoon, then drag over a fork to make rows that will catch and brown in the oven.

Put the pie in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until starting to crisp and turn golden brown.

Remove and serve.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

Looking for more recipes?

Head over to our website www.thegibraltarmagazine.com

Vegan Irish Stew Filling •

2 tbsp olive oil

•

2 stalks celery, chopped

•

1 yellow onion, chopped

•

4 cloves garlic, minced

•

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

•

2-4 cups vegetable broth

•

1 can (473ml) GUINNESS

•

3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

•

2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks

•

8oz mushrooms, quartered

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

•

by The Kasbar

2 1/2 cups baby potatoes, halved (or about 2 regular potatoes and cut into chunks)

•

1/2 cup tomato paste

•

2 bay leaves

•

2 tsp brown sugar

•

1 tsp dried thyme

•

3/4 tsp salt

•

1/2 tsp ground pepper

•

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Heat a large pot over mediumhigh heat. Add the olive oil, and when hot add in the celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and just

begins to brown, about 5 minutes.

Sprinkle in the flour. Stir well to coat the veggies, and cook for another minute to heat up the flour. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth, and scrape the bottom of the pan with your spoon to get any bits off the bottom.

Add in the beer, all of the remaining veggies, tomato paste, and spices. The beer will foam up, but that’s ok, the bubbles and alcohol will cook right out. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 – 15 minutes until the veggies are forktender, but not mushy. The stew will be very thick! If you prefer a thinner stew, feel free to thin it out to taste with 1 to 2 more cups of vegetable broth. Remove bay leaves before serving, and serve hot.

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sports

THE SCOREBOARD The review of the year.

BY GEORGIOS TONTOS

W

ithout a doubt, we are going through the strangest year due to the global situation that has prevailed since last March, with the pandemic that came to change everything, even on the sports map. Gibraltar could not be the exception to this international problem, with the football Premier Division and other sports being significantly affected by the situation.

Nevertheless, it was a very good year for sports on the Rock, and especially for the national football team, who have brought much happiness after last year’s successes.

THE NATIONAL TEAM CHAPTER Our national team achieved a historic promotion to UEFA’s Nations League C, after two

Teams are now used to playing in an empty stadium, as well as our national football team, who achieved historic success, with no fans at the Victoria Stadium.

Unusual scenery for football matches is the empty and cold stadiums, with only the presence of journalists and teams, following the strict new UEFA regulations.

Something that definitely affected the performance and also the psychology of the teams, who had to face a new reality. Realistically speaking, this has affected all sports.

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

sports consecutive draws and a victory in the first match against San Marino and Liechtenstein. It is true that Gibraltar came out stronger, from the empty stadium without fans, playing good and effective football, and winning the respect of Europe.

With coach Ribas, the team built the foundations for victories, creating a competitive team with experienced players such as Liam Walker, Scott Wiseman, Lee Casciaro, and talented young players such as Olivero and Torilla helping the team significantly. The beginning of the successes with the Uruguayan coach took place much earlier, and more specifically

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

in 2018 with the two consecutive victories against Armenia and Lichtenstein. Τhis was followed by the third official victory against San Marino with 1-0, to reach a historic qualification of first place in their group in the UEFA Nations League.

PREMIER DIVISION AND EUROPE CHAPTER St. Joseph’s is the best team in the league as evidenced by the league standings; they will likely be the winter champions in Gibraltar.

Taking the lead is striker Juanfri,

who has scored eight goals in the first seven matches. There is a lot of competition in the league with Europa FC, Lincoln FC, and Lynx claiming the league title equally.

The country's teams made a great impression in the Europa League qualifiers in September, with Lincoln and Europa reaching the third phase of the campaign for the first time, facing the Rangers and Djurgårdens, unfortunately without netting positive results.

Let's hope the new year is better on all levels, with even more success.

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leisure

FANCY PANTS FUNDRAISER Help Calpe House, get fit, and show us your pants!

BY DEBORAH HUXLEY

2

020, for the best part, has been pants! So for the month of January we want you to show us your pants.

Let’s get fit and healthy together so that we can move into 2021 in a positive healthy way. We invite all the personal trainers of Gibraltar, the local gyms, clubs and classes, and groups - be it yoga, dance, Zumba, cycling, running, or paddle boarding.

by the NHS England. Gibraltar must be proud of their home from home in London.

helping raise much-needed funds for Calpe House. Let’s encourage fitness and a healthy lifestyle.

Let’s get Gibraltar fit whilst

Let’s create more positivity than

All you need to do is register, send us a donation of £5.00 (sterling) and a photo of your exercise wear, i.e. your “fancy pants”. We can then upload your photo to our collection and thank you for your ongoing support in our community and support for Calpe House, London.

Calpe House has remained fully operational throughout the pandemic lockdown and we have looked after long-term patients whom have had to remain in London. The trustees are eternally grateful to the management and staff for putting their health on the line in looking after the patients all within the guidelines provided 70

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

leisure

2021 can handle.

We are experiencing more and more anxiety, loneliness, diabetes, and stress than ever before in our community, so let’s support and uplift each other - and have a bit of fun along the way.

So if you do any sort of exercise already, you’re halfway there! If not, put on your trainers and your fancy pants and start now.

We want to see grandparents and grandchildren walking. We want to see you walking with your GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

whole family or your dogs. On your bikes or with your weights.

We want to see everybody with a smile on their face, so that together we can all move into 2021 in a positive way.

The Hon. Steven Linares MP, Minister for Sport, commented: “As Minister for Sport, I am extremely happy to support this initiative in raising fitness awareness. It is very important as being active and doing regular bodily exercises can prevent major chronic diseases.

I would also like to take this opportunity in thanking all those involved in this campaign.”

Calpe House Chairman Albert Poggio OBE GHM also welcomes this initiative, organised by Deborah Huxley, Director of events and fundraising at Calpe House.

For more information, contact deborahhuxley@gmail.com, or visit www.calpehouse.com, facebook.com/calpehouse, or search CalpeHouse1 on Instagram.

71

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food & wine

CHÂTEAUNEUF DU-PAPE If there’s a French wine appellation everyone has heard of, it’s surely Châteauneuf-duPape.

BY ANDREW LICUDI DIPWSET

M

any look back on this famous appellation as their first inroad into French wines. Why this southern Rhone wine should be so, is probably not difficult to unravel. After all what’s not to like about Châteauneuf’s bold, fruity, Grenache based reds?

Easily accessible when young yet capable of maturing for decades.

Good examples simply burst with red fruits like raspberries, plums and cherries, and as it matures, will take on complex notes of leather and wild herbs. This herbal play is known locally as garrigue, after the region’s scrubland of sage, rosemary and other Mediterranean herbs growing profusely in the area. Of course, Châteauneuf-du-Pape also produces white wines which are weighty and honeyed but being relative rarities ( only 5% of its wines are white) , are seldom seen outside specialist wine merchants.

only are the predominant grape varieties different, but soils differ and even the climate varies.

The southern end is considered Mediterranean whilst the north is continental with the usual challenges that a colder climate brings to viticulture and wine making. In general, the north, with its famous appellations of Hermitage, St Joseph and Cote Roti are known for its longlived wines, rarely approachable when young. These wines can challenge the best of Bordeaux and Burgundy and whilst they are far from cheap, are considered

better value. Southern Rhone on the other hand, produces prodigious quantifies of inexpensive, Grenache based wines under the the DOC of Côtes du Rhône or Côtes du Rhône-Villages.

In terms of quality however, Châteauneuf-du-Pape remains the most important appellation in southern Rhone. Its heavily embossed bottles instantly recognisable, somehow promising something rather special though, like any other wine region, quality as prices, can be variable. With

The Rhone Valley, from a wine perspective at least, is a slight misnomer. Viticulturally, Northern Rhone and Southern Rhone, divided by large tracts of land where no vines are grown, couldn’t be more different. Not 73

food & wine Alcohol levels in Châteauneuf can be excruciatingly high. the advent of global warming, alcohol levels in Châteauneuf can be excruciatingly high and producers are regularly torn having to wait until the grapes ripen yet aware that sugar levels continue to rise, inevitably leading to excessive alcohols in their wines.

Of all the soils of France the soils of Châteauneuf-du-Pape are the ones instantly recognisable. “It’s the galets you see,” somebody once told me. These are large pebbles, sometime several inches across, lying in profusion around the vines which apparently speed up ripeness and reflect or retain heat depending who’s is telling you!

Today 18 different varieties of grapes are allowed in the production of Châteauneufdu-Pape, however its Grenache (known as Garnacha in Spain)

74

with its inherent fruity and rich tasting sweetness which makes Châteauneuf-du-Pape glow.

Conversely, its Châteauneufdu-Pape which is considered the finest expression of Grenache in France.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape takes its name from the time when the Pope moved to Avignon in 1309.

The move was due to issues between the King of France and the Papacy. Eight different Popes served in Avignon as the Papacy remained in Châteauneuf-du-Pape until 1378.

CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE AND FOOD Most meat dishes though vegetable driven dishes work well too. Pairs well with spicier foods due to its inherent sweetness.

Ideal with Moroccan tagines.

Worth trying with curries.

SOME PRODUCERS OF CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE Château Rayas – Near perfect, harmonious wines in good years.

Stone, spice and garrigue herbs.

Long memorable finishes. A millionaire’s wine at £400 plus a bottle.

Château de Beaucastel – Voluptuous wines. Memorable. £35 plus a bottle.

Dom du Vieux Télégraph – Great producer. Can compete with the best in good years. £40 plus.

Clos de Papes – Meaty and savoury. Great wines. £30 plus.

Domaine Andre Brunel – Good value. Morrison’s, £22.

Bonpas Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Anglo Hispano, £25.

P.S. The much publicised ‘Oxford Vaccine’ has prompted an angry response from bureaucrats in Paris. According to them, the name ‘Vaccines’ can only be applied to medications produced in the Vaccine Region of France, and Oxford must rename their product ‘sparkling medication’.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

Keeping Gibraltar healthy for almost 50 years!

BY SOPHIE CLIFTON-TUCKER

T

he Health Store was founded by Richard Pryor in the early 70s, as just a small corner shop on 5 City Mill Lane. Here we sit with Richard’s step-grandson, Robin Batchelor, as he talks about the evolution of the company and his plans for keeping us fighting fit well into the future!

The original corner shop has now expanded to a second shop a little further up the road at 27 City Mill Lane, which is dedicated to sports and fitness. The store carries most of the best sports nutrition products, including protein powders and sports supplements from all of the top brands: USN, Applied Nutrition, Grenade and many more.

Their third shop is by far their GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

largest; The Health Store Organic at 23 Cornwall’s Lane is more like a mini supermarket than your typical health store, as it stocks most household requirements including everything from fresh organic fruit and vegetables, natural toothpastes, deodorants, household products and more. “In fact, many of our customers use us solely for their weekly shopping and don’t need to go elsewhere!”

Robin reveals. It also stocks a huge range of eco-friendly goods and an ever-increasing range of vegan products, plus specialist products for anyone with special dietary needs such as wheat, dairy, gluten or other intolerances.

If that wasn’t already enough, their qualified staff are always on hand to help and offer advice – and always with a smile.

DID THE TURMOIL OF LAST YEAR IMPACT SALES? HOW DID YOU ADAPT? Lockdown was challenging in many ways, but our team has been great at adapting. We now work in two separate ‘bubbles’ and have introduced a number of changes, particularly online, where we now deliver goods for free to senior citizens and with a small charge to others. During the lockdown we waived all delivery charges though and offered free delivery to everyone to also help reduce human traffic in our streets. Naturally, many people whether young or old do prefer to come in and talk to a ‘real’ person in order to discuss their needs, requirements or perhaps even a newly discovered food intolerance or diet that they are planning, and 75

health of course our qualified staff are always delighted to be of help.

WHO DO YOU SUPPLY AND WHAT EVENTS HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED WITH? We are the distributors for over 50 different brands in Gibraltar, supplying many local favourite products like the Grenade Carb Killa Bars, Eat Real’s healthy crisps, Manuka Honey and many more. We distribute to over 80 businesses in Gibraltar including some other local favourites like Ramsons, Eroski and Coviran, along with all of the best gyms like Physique Gibraltar, King’s Bastion and more. We’re always looking for more places to supply and with the changing trends have also started supplying a number of restaurants, cafés and even

a few hotels. So, if you have a location that you think could use our products please get in touch with us!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR ONLINE SERVICES. In 2012 we started a website solely focused on selling to the UK and elsewhere. While it was successful, we realised that it wasn’t all that useful for our local customers and that it was more important for us to focus our efforts at home. So, we launched thehealthstoreorganic.com in 2018, solely for local residents.

We offer an easy, local, and as mentioned previously, free to senior citizens delivery service.

We allow our customers to choose any date for their delivery, with a choice of two different time

slots of when they would like for their products to be delivered, to ensure they’d receive them; and this all includes next day delivery.

As we have over 7,000 products, our website, as you can imagine, is always a work in progress. We are constantly updating our products with photos and descriptions to make it easier to shop with us. As part of our long-term goals, we also want to allow our customers to shop on our website with specific filters, such as vegan or gluten free, so they can shop in comfort, knowing that their dietary requirements, which ever they may be, are being cared for.

DO YOU USE ANY OF YOUR OWN PRODUCTS? WHAT ARE THE BEST SELLERS? Yes! I really believe in the products we supply and it’s something we always consider when bringing in new products.

As you can imagine I do my weekly shop with us; my day-today food and snacks are products we supply. I am also a firm believer in supplementing your body with nutrients your body can’t absorb as easily in your diet, or where you may need a boost. The main thing on my mind in 2020 has been my immune system.

Supplements like Sambucol, which contains Black Elderberry Extract, is a great everyday immune support product that can be taken by the whole family; it’s actually been a staple product this year for many of our customers. But along with this, I’ve also been supplementing with Vitamin D, Fish Oil and general multivitamins.

Additionally, I always have a daily protein bar, usually either Carb Killa or Trust Crunch, two of our most popular brands.

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

health 2020 has been a catalyst for change in many people.

HAVE YOU SEEN AN INCREASE IN PEOPLE WANTING TO ADOPT A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE IN RECENT YEARS? WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR A JANUARY HEALTH KICK? Yes, we’ve seen a huge increase over the last few years with 2020 especially being a catalyst for change in many people. One of the key things is to remember that however much you enjoy exercising; you should think about your recovery too. While most of my exercising now involves hiking (I think you’ve featured one of my photos before!), I still use products like USN’s Blue Lab Whey Protein shakes, Applied Nutrition’s Creatine (to increase endurance) and more to help my body recover. After a weekend spent hiking, I don’t want to spend a week at work aching!

Our advice for those starting 2021 off with a health kick is to firstly pick something you enjoy.

If you like to run, run. If you like to play a sport, play a sport. Don’t feel that you have to exercise in a certain way to get healthy; everything is valid, and everything should be enjoyable. After that we recommend looking into two main things. Firstly, is your recovery, especially if you’re new to training.

Everything is going to ache after those first few sessions and it’s the reason many people don’t stick it out and make it a habit. If you prepare your recovery, you’ll GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

find it much easier to get into the gym or get out on your bicycle for that second week in a row.

Secondly, there should be a focus on improving your diet, while still enjoying what you eat. We can help you there, to find healthier alternatives for your favourite foods so you can still indulge while also progressing with your fitness goals. But also, for those of you with low iron, high blood pressure, or other issues, we can help recommend tried and tested supplements to help you, so you can get healthier without worry.

HAS THE MARKET CHANGED IN GIB OVER THE YEARS? WHAT ARE PEOPLE INTERESTED IN MORE OF/LESS OF NOWADAYS? We’ve found there’s been a steady, growing push towards an overall healthy lifestyle, especially with people being more aware with not only what health benefits organic products bring, but the overall environmental benefits when shopping green and organic.

When we first started catering for specific dietary needs, it was more of a niche area, whereas now most people are conscious

of specific foods or allergens that don’t sit well with them. They also care more about where their food comes from and how its production affects the world.

We research the companies we purchase from as much as possible, because not only does healthy food benefit your body, but it also can benefit the world through environmental concerns.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? Ideally for us we would love to consolidate into a much larger store, so that we can expand the ranges we already offer. We’d also like to increase our storage space and supply to more local shops, supermarkets and restaurants, so that anywhere you go in Gibraltar, you would be sure the food you buy and consume is the highest quality possible. Oh and of course we’d like to keep Gibraltar healthy for another 50 years!

Find The Health Store at 5 and 27 City Mill Lane, and 23 Cornwall's Lane, or visit thehealthstoreorganic.com. You can also find them on Facebook (TheHealthStoreGibraltar) and Instagram (@HealthStoreGib).

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travel

A TRAVELLER’S DIARY Part One: Oxford to St Petersburg.

After having read about places you can’t go for the past year, I decided I should write an article about my own experiences abroad, rather than the beauty of far-flung destinations, currently unreachable. Here is a tale about a journey I took, without too much detail about each specific place (not only because my memory is rubbish, but to spare you the wanderlust).

BY CHRISTOPHER HEDLEY

A

round eight years ago, I was working as a travel agent in Oxford. The growing prevalence of online booking agents (and a smattering of fraudulence from a past manager) meant no one was hitting their targets. My friend and colleague, Andy, turned to me one day and said, 'Let's move to New Zealand!' I took a cursory glance around the boneyard of an industry in need of palliative care and said, ‘Okay.’

I have never really liked flying, so I made an off-the-cuff suggestion about how we should try to get there without taking a plane.

There was a tour package we sold that went from St Petersburg to Beijing over the course of a couple of weeks or so. Andy had sold enough of these trips to earn himself a free one, and he persuaded a lady friend to part ways with her entitlement to a half price trip for my good self.

With such a massive part of the trip already accounted for, we committed to going overland.

We set off, accompanied by a couple of friends at this point, in November after booking ourselves a cheap ticket on the Eurostar before leaving our jobs. It took us to Brussels, which we had both been to before and thought little of, so we got on a train set for Amsterdam. The travel time between Amsterdam and Brussels is around three hours, but, for the purposes of saving about a fiver, we opted for the overnight train stopping in Cologne. Have a look at a map and realise how stupid this is. But it saved us some cash, which we had very little of. We had all been to Amsterdam before, but did the things you’re supposed to do there anyway. Anne Frank museum - again. Heineken museum - again. And coffee shops - again. The imagery of ducks on the canals by thin strips of houses

in Amsterdam give way to stag dos and debauchery as the sun goes down. It’s fun for a while, but rarely leaves a yearning to return. Incidentally, the reason there are so many thin houses is because the Dutch used to tax citizens based on the width of

The Dutch used to tax citizens based on the width of their homes. their homes. You can walk around and spot people who definitely don’t own a super king sized bed, if that’s your kind of thing.

In Copenhagen we had booked a room in a brand-new hostel.

Generator, it was called. It would be the last time we exploited our 79

travel positions as travel agents to book accommodation. It’s a place I’d like to go back to; like so many places, I didn’t take advantage of being there. In my mid-twenties I looked even more like a hippy, and everywhere I went in the world people tried to sell me drugs, or catch me with drugs in my backpack… or elsewhere. So, it was unsurprising that when we asked the receptionist at the hostel what there was to do in Copenhagen, she directed us to an anarchist commune, Freetown Christiania, where it’s acceptable to buy and smoke weed. We weren’t interested in procuring cannabis but walked around the park nonetheless, as it was the only suggestion offered to us. It reminded me of Amsterdam. Later we found some trampolines built into the pavement and had a nice bounce for a bit, but it was very cold. My overriding memory of Copenhagen is that on the way to the park, we saw a (presumably) homeless man lying down on the street. On the way back he was blue and surrounded by police. To be homeless in colder countries is even more of a peril than it is in this part of the world. We said goodbye to our two part-time companions as they returned

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to their lives in London, went for a few extremely expensive beers, slept, and left for Sweden with heavy hearts and light wallets.

It should be noted that the reason we were heading to Gothenburg, was solely because Andy had an interest in pursuing a past flame and making her his girlfriend for the night. We knew nothing of the city itself. When we arrived, the woman - I can’t remember her name - informed us that Gothenburg was a bit of a student city, and people flocked there in the summer for the weather. That sounded great: Midnight sun, young people partying all night. But alas it was November, and we did not party.

Plus, we were trying to save a little money for the long trip ahead. We rode around the city on trams which, we were told, many people chose not to pay for,

then accepted the hefty fine when you inevitably got caught. This put me on edge. I wanted no such fine. We were successful in saving money, no fines, free room (in the nameless woman’s house for the night - Andy was unsuccessful in his personal endeavour), and left for Stockholm.

Stockholm has a fantastic old town. Walking through the cobbled streets past the red, green, and yellow 18th century buildings helped cement the feeling that leaving everyone and everything we know behind to travel the world was a good thing.

We were finally getting further enough from the UK without GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

travel flying to feel like we’d achieved something.

a hot bath. He’s still alive, so it’s probably nothing serious.

Andy had spent some time in Sweden before so was keen to get on with the next leg of the journey. The most sensible option was to book a boat to Tallinn and then get a bus from St Petersburg from there. We booked a boat, not knowing that this overnight route is taken by many Scandinavians keen to take advantage of the cheap booze and drink themselves silly all night. We joined in a little, but the whole thing felt a bit seedy. The man sharing a room with us bought a 24-pack of some grapefruit flavoured lager and proceeded to plough through it, falling off his bunk in the night and landing next to Andy, touching him in a wild panic of darkness and inebriation.

Drunken fumble aside, we arrived in Estonia unscathed.

Tallinn is yet another city with a beautiful old town, although I got the feeling it was preserved more for the tourists than anything else.

This feeling was compounded as we took a tram to the bus station, venturing out of ‘tourist town’ and into an old soviet block; grey buildings and grey faces. There was nothing to hold on to when the tram moved, and the weight of my bag betrayed me once more as I fell into a woman and her pram laden with a baby. She was displeased, I was apologetic in the wrong language. She probably still hates me.

This put me on edge. I wanted no such fine.

It was cold here, so we found a picturesque, well-heated but dimly-lit cafe and went in to eat something weird. Reindeer soup, I think. The process of going for light to dark, cold to hot caused something to happen inside Andy as, when I walked out to leave the cafe, I saw him standing like a statue with one arm out staring into oblivion. He stayed like that for a few seconds before I retrieved him and he explained that he couldn’t see or move.

Apparently this had happened before after playing football in the cold weather and jumping into GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

As we embarked on the nine or so hour trip out of the Baltics, darkness fell over the increasingly miserable looking apartment buildings, finally blessing us with the gift of unseeing. There were two stops in St Petersburg. We needed to get off at the first, but got off at the second. This was only my second ever encounter where speaking English couldn’t help me out in a tough situation.

We were unable to communicate with the lady at the small bus stop, even with map in hand and, strangely, the taxi driver we found outside didn’t want to take us.

Fortunately. I like to look at maps of places before I get there, and had noted where this bus stop was in relation to our hostel by the Neva River. I knew the river was north (the bus had been travelling east so I knew roughly which direction north was), so we walked north. For five miles. With a heavy backpack.

We eventually found ourselves on the Nevsky Prospect, the main road running through the city.

I rarely get blown away by the

I think the mattress was cardboard. architecture of a place, but the masterpieces flanking the Nevsky Prospect are quite something.

It’s just one building after the other of grandeur and magnitude.

To add to the effect, every man we passed was a bodybuilder and each woman, a model. We managed to find an internet cafe (old school) and discover our hostel was only a further thirtyfive-minute walk up towards the river, then left a bit. I’ve slept in some sorry excuses for beds, but never anything as pathetic as the one in that hostel. I think the mattress was cardboard - that’s not hyperbole - but we stayed there for a few nights because everyone there was so friendly.

They also had a foosball table, a place where I’m happy to show off my skills learned from misspent days at sixth from, and free cigarettes behind reception, so I was happy.

We befriended a Russian photographer named Oleg whose English wasn’t great, but he’d left his wife and young child for a few days to take pictures of the city and conveniently acted as our tour guide. I’ve found him on Instagram; looks like he’s still taking photos. We also met a Brazilian guy, Jonas, who years later would invite me into his home in Sao Paulo. Those few days were great. Being in a new place, a new culture, with new people, is always fun, but it was time for us to meet the rest of the tour group in Moscow...

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fashion

GRAB YOUR COAT

When it comes to building a solid winter staple wardrobe, you really don’t have to look further than the high street to source a vast selection of versatile and quality outerwear.

BY JULIA COELHO

O

uterwear is the one category where an investment buy is often a wise choice; many of our favourite coats are items that hold their value and remain ‘trendy’ season after season. Thankfully, coats are one of the least likely items to be swept up in the ever-changing tides of seasonal trends, so it really is worth taking the time to find the right one for you. In this crazy fast-paced world of fleeting micro-trends and limitless options, the stability and enduring power of a timeless staple piece shouldn’t be underestimated. The likes of Zara and Mango are clear favourites in this respect year after year, offering a whole host of stylish choices at reasonable price points and, most importantly, offering hardy, long-wearing quality that will last for many seasons to come.

TEDDY/BORG COATS My much-loved ‘shacket’ (shirt-jacket) became a serious 82

wardrobe hero throughout the autumn months; looking fab with absolutely everything from midi dresses and boots to jeans and a boxy tee. Now that winter has descended upon us, however, I'll begrudgingly pack away my trusty shacket and opt for my new cold-weather alternative.

Thankfully, the borg jacket has been answering my shivery prayers for the better part of two years now.

TOP: PETITE SAGE GREEN BORG JACKET, TOPSHOP, £55.00 MIDDLE: TEDDY COAT IN CREAM, VILA, £55.00 BOTTOM: TEDDY BORG COAT IN BROWN, MONKI, £85.00

It’s safe to say that teddy coats GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

have officially gained cult status, and although they’re not new to the scene by any means, I’ve noticed that there’s an updated version that’s been making the rounds as of late. Coming in a boxy, almost shirt-like fit, it bears a striking resemblance to the good old shacket (woohoo!), except it’s been given a definitively wintery fluffy spin. No surprises there really, considering the manner in which shackets burst onto the scene last year.

Some styles look more like fleeces and are perfect for layering under coats, but there are also plenty of classic chunky options which will look awesome with jeans and

Teddy coats have officially gained cult status pretty much any shoe. They’re arguably one of the more casual of coat styles, but when paired with an elegant roll-neck, a pair of straight-leg jeans and bold jewellery, they can actually look pretty glam.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

TOP LEFT: TEDDY FLEECE OVERSHIRT, COS, £89.00

PUFFER JACKETS It's not often that one of the season's most popular coats also happens to be the most practical item in your entire wardrobe.

Previously considered a purely sporty, and somewhat ugly item of clothing, the puffer has well and truly seen a shift this year, with its simple silhouette lending itself quite appropriately to the very much welcomed minimalist aesthetic that has dominated the past year. With its simple cut, diverse colour palette, and roomy pockets, it ticks all the boxes for what anyone might need from a practical throw-on-and-go coat. I can understand why some people have been resistant to give this trend a go, but this winter the puffer comes in various iterations so it's by no means one-sizefits-all. If you’re not quite

TOP MIDDLE: BUTTON-UP PUFFER COAT, MONKI, £65.00 TOP RIGHT: QUILTED PUFFER JACKET IN KHAKI, MANGO, £59.99

TOP RIGHT: ALLY-LONG-PUFFERJACKET_-WEEKDAY_-£125 BOTTOM RIGHT: QUILTED PADDED JACKET IN TAN, JDY, £38.00

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fashion TOP: OVERSIZED ALPACA BLEND COAT, & OTHER STORIES, £175.00 LEFT: DOUBLE-BREATED-FAUXFUR-COAT_-ZARA_-£99.99 RIGHT: STRONG SHOULDER MAXI COAT IN SAGE, ASOS DESIGN, £65.00

ready to go for an all-out puffer style, why not dip your toe in by opting for a simple quilted coat, which offers less bulk than the traditional style but still satisfies that desire for cosiness we’re all craving at this time of year.

Before you dismiss the puffer coat all together, have a browse through your favourite highstreet retailers; you might just find yourself a new winter staple.

TRENCH & MAXI COATS For ageless and trendtranscending style, you can't do much better than a classic maxi or trench coat; two styles that have stood the test of time for decades. As with every new season, there seems to be plenty of exciting options around if you happen to be looking to add a maxi coat to your current rotation. With a whole spectrum of hues and silhouettes on offer, the power of the good old trench coat is, of course, in its sheer versatility, whether paired with your gym gear for a weekend stroll or worn alongside cosy knits, jeans or midi skirts for dressier occasions.

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fashion SHEARLING AVIATOR JACKETS Shearling aviator jackets are a rare breed of coat that manage to look both effortlessly cool and fulfill the desired job of keeping you toasty no matter the what the weather throws at you. I personally love green and khaki colourways as they make for something a little different to the classic camel tones we see in almost every coat genre.

It ticks all the boxes

VINYL COATS As far as winter outfits go, there’s nothing quite as effective as the classic coat-and-boot combo.

As simple as it may be, the right pairing can get you through the frostier months whilst still feeling like you’ve got your finger on the fashion pulse. There’s no pairing I love more than some boots (literally any style works!) and a vinyl jacket; it’s just the easiest and most fool-proof formula for a slightly fancy yet super stylish outfit. Go for a bright colour or animal print if you’re feeling a little daring this winter.

TOP LEFT: SHEARLING PARKA WITH BORG DETAIL IN BLACK, ASOS DESIGN, £75.00 TOP RIGHT: FAUX SHEARLING BORG LINED AVIATOR JACKET, M&S, £69.00 BOTTOM LEFT: BLACK LIQUID VINYL TRENCH, TOPSHOP, £79.99 BOTTOM MIDDLE: VINYL TRENCH COAT IN SAGE, ASOS DESIGN, £70.00 BOTTOM RIGHT: TALL BLACK REVERSIBLE BORG JACKET, TOPSHOP, £79.99

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

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CREAMY CAULIFLOWER, TURMERIC AND GINGER SOUP Recipe by The Gibraltar Vegan, follow nstagram.com/thegibraltarvegan for updates

It’s January and we are most likely trying to recover from the calorie indulgence that comes with Christmas celebrations. Promises of working out, eating healthy and food prep fall from our mouths.

I have combined all three and created a soup that is low carb, low salt, low fat and high protein therefore ticking all the boxes including the scrumptious box.

INGREDIENTS • • • • 86

1.5lt water 1 cube low salt stock (I use Kallo organic vegetable) 2 medium sized cauliflower/or 1 very large one ½ a bulb garlic

• • •

1 thumb sized ginger 3tsp ground turmeric 1tsp garlic & black pepper mix (or just use black pepper if you aren’t a garlic fan like me)

•

350g silken tofu

METHOD 1. Cut the cauliflower into florets.

Peel the ginger and cut into five pieces. Peel and cut the garlic into chunks. Drain the tofu and chop roughly 2. Pour the water into a large saucepan and add the cauliflower, stock cube, garlic, ginger, turmeric and garlic and black pepper mix

3. Boil until the vegetables are soft 4. Add the silken tofu and stir 5. Pour into the blender and blend until creamy 6. Let it cool down a little and serve 7. Pour the rest into meal prep containers *Note: if you are not a fan of the taste of turmeric as it can be an acquired taste, try it with one teaspoon the first time you make it and then add more the next time.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

SWEET POTATO ROSTI Spoil yourself this weekend with a Rosti for breakfast. Cheesy, crisp and delicious with some bacon and eggs.

INGREDIENTS: •

2 Large sweet potatoes

•

1 Onion

•

2 Eggs

•

Butter

•

Smokey bacon

•

Vinegar

•

Salt

•

Pepper

•

Olive oil

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

METHOD: 1. Heat up some oil in a pan and fry some shopped up garlic and onion until soft and tender.

2. Grate the sweet potatoes, season with a pinch of salt and place them in a kitchen towel.

Wrap them up in the towel and squeeze to release all the water.

3. Lay some bacon out on tray with grease proof paper and transfer to the oven to bake until crisp.

4. In a large bowl mix together the sweet potato, cheese and now cooked onion and garlic and give it a good toss. Now transfer the

Recipe featured on MamaLotties.com

rosti mixture to a pan, flatten like a pancake and fry until crisp, then carefully slip and do the same.

4. Lay the rosti on a plate with chopped up bacon and a poached egg and enjoy.

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information EMERGENCY SERVICES EMERGENCY CALLS ONLY: ALL EMERGENCIES................................. 112 FIRE...............................................................190 AMBULANCE.............................................190 POLICE.................................................................199

NON-URGENT CALLS: Ambulance Station 200 75728 Business Information Financial Serv. Commission Tel: 200 40283/4 Chamber of Commerce Tel: 200 78376 Federation Small Business Tel: 200 47722 Company Registry.Tel: 200 78193 Useful Numbers Airport (general info.) . Tel: 200 12345 Hospital, St Bernards. . Tel: 200 79700 Weather information. . Tel: 5-3416 Frontier Queue Update Tel: 200 42777

The Gibraltar Magazine is published and produced by Rock Publishing Ltd, Gibraltar. Tel: (+350) 200 77748

Gibraltar Museum Tel: 200 74289 18/20 Bomb House Lane 10am-6pm (Sat 10am-2pm). Admission: Adults £2/Children under 12 - £1.

Exhibitions also at Casemates gallery.

Police 200 72500

Gibraltar Garrison Library Tel: 200 77418 2 Library Ramp Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm. Free Library tour offered every Friday at 11am. chris.tavares@gibraltargarrisonlibrary.gi Registry Office Tel: 200 72289 It’s possible to get married within 48 hours. A fact taken advantage of by stars such as Sean Connery & John Lennon.

Rock Tours by Taxi Tel: 200 70052 As well as offering normal fares, taxis provide Rock Tours taking in the Upper Rock, Europa Point etc.

John Mackintosh Hall Tel: 200 75669 Includes cafeteria, theatre, exhibition rooms and library. 308 Main Street 9.30am - 11pm Mon-Fri.

Gibraltar Services Police Emergency Nos: (5) 5026 / (5) 3598 Gibraltar Public Holidays 2020 New Year’s Day Commonwealth Day Good Friday Easter Monday

Monday 1st Jan Monday 09th Mar Friday 10th Apr Monday 13nd Apr

Workers Memorial Day Tuesday 28th Apr May Day

Friday 1st May

75th anniversary of VE Day Friday 8th May Spring Bank Holiday

Monday 25th May

Queen’s Birthday

Monday 15th June

Late Summer Bank Holiday

Monday 31st Aug

Gibraltar National Day Tuesday 10th Sept Christmas Day Boxing Day

Friday 25th Dec Thursday 28th Dec

SUPPORT GROUPS ADHD Gibraltar adhdgibraltar@gmail.com facebook.com/ADHDGibraltar/ Alcoholics Anonymous meet 7pm Tues & Thurs at Nazareth House Tel: 200 73774.

A Step Forward support for single, separated, divorced/widowed people, meet 8pm Mon at St Andrew’s Church.

Mummy & Me Breastfeeding Support Group those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have breastfed to get together for coffee / support.

Partners and older children welcome. Meets 1st Wed / month at Chilton Court Community Hall at 1.30pm. Enquiries and support 54014517.

Childline Gibraltar confidential phone line for children in need. Freephone 8008 - 7 days a week 5pm - 9pm Citizens’ Advice Bureau Open Mon-Thur 9:30am-4:00pm, Fri 9:30am- 3:30pm. Tel: 200 40006 Email: info@cab.gi or visit at 10 Governor’s Lane. Free & confidential, impartial & independent advice and info.

COPE Support group for people with Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia or Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Meetings at Catholic Community Centre Book

88

Shop at 7.30pm first Thur of each month. Tel: 200 51469 Email: copeadsupport@hotmail.com Dignity At Work Now Confidential support and advice for those who are being bullied at work.

Tel: 57799000.

Families Anonymous Support group for relatives and friends concerned about the use of drugs or related behavioural problems.

Meet weekly on Thurs at 9pm at Family and Community Centre, Mid Harbours Estate, Bishop Caruana Road. 54007676 or 54014484.

Gamblers Anonymous Telephone: 54001520 Gibraltar Cardiac Rehabilitation and Support Group meets on the first Tues of every month at 8.30pm at John Mac Hall, except for Jul & Aug. Gibraltar Dyslexia Support Group 72 Prince Edwards Rd Tel: 200 78509 Mobile: 54007924 website: dyslexia.gi Gibraltar Hearing Issues & Tinnitus Association Voicemail: (+350) 200 66755, Text Message (SMS): (+350) 54066055, Correspondence Charity P.O. Box 90220, Gibraltar. Email: info@ ghita.gi, Facebook: Gibraltar Hearing Issues & Tinnitus Association (GHITA & BSL Club), Our support group meets the first Monday of every month at Suite 3, Kings Bastion Leisure Centre as from 5pm.

Gibraltar Marriage Care Free relationship counselling, including pre-marriage education (under auspices of Catholic Church, but open to all). Tel: 200 71717.

Gibraltar Society for the Visually Impaired Tel: 200 50111 (24hr answering service).

Hope miscarriage support Tel: 200 41817.

Mummy & Me Breastfeeding Support: Meets every Thursday 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Narcotics Anonymous Tel: 200 70720 Parental Support Group helping parents and grandparents with restrictive access to their children and grandchildren. Tel: 200 46536, 200 76618, or 54019602.

Psychological Support Group, PO Box 161, Nazareth House. Meet Tuesdays at 7pm, Fridays 8pm. Tel: Yolanda 54015553 With Dignity Gibraltar support for separated, divorced/widowed or single people. Meet Weds 9pm, Catholic Community Centre, Line Wall Rd. Outings/activities.

Women in Need Voluntary organisation for all victims of domestic violence. Refuge available.

Tel: 200 42581 (24 hrs).

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

clubs & activities Arts & Crafts Cross Stitch Club: John Mackintosh Hall, 1st Floor, Mon 6-8pm, fee £1.

Gibraltar Arts & Crafts Association: Children: Mon&Fri 12.30-2pm, Mon-Fri 3.45-5.15pm Adults: Wed 5.45-7.15, Sat 10.30 to 12.30, Tel: 20073865 email: gibartsandcrafts@hotmail.com Knit and Natter Group: Tues 11am-3pm, Thurs 5.30-7.30pm, at Arts & Crafts Shop, Casemates balcony. Free to join and refreshments provided. Tel: 20073865.

The Arts Centre: Prince Edward’s Road, Art classes for children and adults. For more info call Tel: 200 79788.

The Fine Arts Association Gallery: At Casemates. Open 10am-2pm, 3-6pm Mon-Fri, Sat 11am-1pm.

The Arts Society Gibraltar: Monthly illustrated talks open to the public.

Registration from 6:30pm every 3rd Wednesday of the month. Guest fee £12.

We meet at The Garrison Library. Contact gibraltar@theartssociety.org or Claus Olesen on 54036666. Website with all informaiton is gibraltar.theartssociety.org Board Games Calpe Chess Club & Junior Club: meets in Studio 1, John Mackintosh Hall Thursday, Juniors: 5p.m. - 7 p.m. / Tuesday & Thursday 7p.m. - 10:30 The Gibraltar Scrabble Club: Meets on Tuesdays at 3pm. Tel: Vin 20073660 or Roy 20075995. All welcome.

The Subbuteo Club: Meets in Charles Hunt Room, John Mackintosh Hall.

Dance Adult Dance Classes: Wed evenings at Kings Bastion Leisure Centre from 7-8.30pm.

Contact Dilip on 200 78714.

Art in Movement Centre: Hip-hop/Break Dance, Contemporary Dance, Pilates, Capoeira, Acrobatics, Street Kids & Tods, Modern Dance. Performance and Film opportunities. Judo & Jujitsu Classes: Tue/ Thur with Sensei Conroy. All ages. Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Wellington Front. www. artinmovement.net FB: Art In Movement A.I.M, tel 54025041 or 54007457 Ballet, Modern Theatre, Contemporary & Hip-hop: weekly at Danza Academy. Training from 3 years to Adult Advanced. 68/2 Prince Edward’s Rd Tel: 54027111.

Bellydance Classes, all levels, Tue 8-9pm at the Ocean Village Gym (non–members welcome). Contact 54005593.

DSA Old & Modern Sequence Dancing: Sessions at Central Hall Fri 8.30pm, beginners 8pm. Tel: 200 78901 or tony@ gibraltar.gi Everybody welcome.

Modern & Latin American Sequence Dancing: Mon at Catholic Community Centre 8pm. Tel. Andrew 200 78901.

Modern, Contemporary, Lyrical, Flexibility, Hip Hop & Dance Theatre: Classes weekly at Urban Dance Studio, 2 Jumpers Bastion.

Tel: Yalta 54012212 or Jolene 54015125.

Rockkickers Linedance Club: Governor’s Meadow 1st School. www.rockkickers.com Salsa Gibraltar Salsa: Tues at Laguna Social Club, Laguna Estate. Beginners 7-8.30pm.

Intermediates 8.30-10pm. Tel: Mike 54472000 or info@salsagibraltar.com Zumba Classes at Urban Dance: Jumpers Bastion, with certified instructor Tyron Walker. Tel: 20063959 or 54012212 or Twitter: @UrbanDanceGib History & Heritage The Gibraltar Heritage Trust: Main Guard, 13 John Mackintosh Sq. Tel: 200 42844.

The Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association: Dedicated to the preservation of Rock’s transport/motoring heritage. Assists members in restoration / maintenance of classic vehicles. New members welcome. Tel: 200 44643.

Garrison Library Tours: at 11am on Fri, duration 1h 50mins. Tel: 20077418.

History Alive: Historical re-enactment parade. Main Street up to Casemates Square every Sat at 12 noon.

Music Gibraltar National Choir and Gibraltar Junior National Choir: Rehearses at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Tel: 54831000.

The Calpe Band: Mon & Wed. For musicians of brass/woodwind instruments of all standards/ages/abilities 7-9pm. Tel: 54017070 or thecalpeband@gmail.com

Jazz Nights: Thurs at 9pm at O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel. Tel: 200 70500.

Outdoor Activities The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Gibraltar: Exciting self-development programme for young people worldwide equipping them with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities and the world. Contact: Award House, North Mole Road, PO Box: 1260. mjpizza@ gibtelecom.net, www.thedukes.gi.

Social Clubs The Rotary Club of Gibraltar meets the Rock Hotel, 7pm Tuesday evenings. Guests welcome. For contact or info www.rotaryclubgibraltar.com Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes: (Gibraltar Province) meets RAOB Club, 72/9 Prince Edward’s Road - Provincial Grand Lodge, Thu/month, 7.30pm. William Tilley 2371, Thurs 8.30pm. Buena Vista 9975, monthly, Social Lodge. www.akearn1.wix. com/raob-gibraltar, william.tilley.lodge@ hotmail.co.uk, Clive, tel: 58008074 Special Interest Clubs & Societies Creative Writers Group: meets up on Tuesday mornings at 10.30 in O’Reilley’s Irish Bar and it is free to attend. Tel: Carla 54006696.

Gibraltar Book Club: For info Tel: Parissa 54022808.

Gibraltar Horticultural Society: meets 1st Thurs of month 6pm, J.M. Hall. Spring Flower Show, slide shows, flower arrangement demos, outings to garden centres, annual Alameda Gardens tour. All welcome.

Gibraltar Photographic Society: Meets on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. Wellington Front.

Induction courses, talks, discussions, competitions etc. For details contact the secretary on, leslinares@gibtelecom.net Harley Davidson Owners’ Club: www.hdcgib.com Lions Club of Gibraltar: Meets 2nd and 4th Wed of the month at 50 Line Wall Road. www.lionsclubofgibraltar.com St John’s Ambulance: Adult Volunteers Training Sessions from 8-10pm on Tues. Tel: 200 77390 or training@stjohn.gi The Royal British Legion: For info or membership contact the Branch Secretary 20074604 or write to PO Box 332.

UN Association of Gibraltar: PO Box 599, 22a Main Street. Tel: 200 52108.

Sports Supporters Clubs Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club: Meets at Star Bar, Parliament Lane, when Spurs games are televised - call prior to matches to check game is televised. Great food for a lunch if KO is early or an early supper if the game is later.

Gibraltar Arsenal Supporters Club: Meets match days upstairs at Time Out Café, Eurotowers. Gooners of all ages welcome.

For info/news visit www.GibGooners.com Tel: 54010681 (Bill) or 54164000 (John).

Gibraltar Hammers: Meets on match days at the Victoria Stadium Bar, Bayside Road. All league games are shown live. All West Ham supporters and their families are welcome.

For details visit www.gibraltarhammers.com or gibraltarhammers@hotmail.com Leeds United Gibraltar Supporters Club.

Meet at The Trafalgar Sports Bar 1 Rosia Road when live matches are on. All Leeds United supporters and their families are welcome. Join Leeds United Gibraltar Supporters club at: facebook.com/luscgib Sports & Fitness Artistic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Artistic Gymnastics Association. Tel: Angela 200 70611 or Sally 200 74661.

Athletics: Gibraltar Amateur Athletics Association holds competitions through year for juniors, adults and veterans. Two main clubs (Calpeans 200 71807, Lourdians 200 75180) training sessions at Victoria Stadium.

Badminton: Recreational badminton weekdays at Victoria Stadium (Tel: 200 78409 for allocations). Gibraltar Badminton Association (affiliated to BWF& BE) junior club/tournaments, senior leagues/ recreational. www.badmintongibraltar.com Ballet Barre Fitness: Adults on Wed 10am & Fri 6pm at The Arts Centre. Tel: 54033465 or pilatesgibraltar@hotmail.com Basketball: Gibraltar Amateur Basketball Association (affiliated FIBA) leagues/ training

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

for minis, passarelle, cadets, seniors and adults at a variety of levels. Tel: John 200 77253, Randy 200 40727.

Boxing: Gibraltar Amateur Boxing Association (member IABA) gym on Rosia Rd. Over 13s welcome. Tuition with ex-pro boxer Ernest Victory. Tel: 56382000 or 20042788.

Cheerleading: Gibraltar Cheerleading Association, girls and boys of all ages.

Cheerleading and street cheer/hip-hop at Victoria Stadium. Recreational / competitive levels. Tel: 58008338.

Canoeing: Gibraltar Canoeing Association.

Tel: Nigel 200 52917 or Arturo 54025033.

Cricket: Gibraltar Cricket, National Governing Body & Associate Member of ICC. Governs International & Domestic Men’s, Women’s, Boys’ & Girls’ cricket- league & cup competitions and in-school coaching. www.gibraltarcricket.com, info@gibcricket. com, Twitter: @Gibraltar_Crick Cycling: Gibraltar Cycling Association various cycling tours.

Darts: Gibraltar Darts Association (full member of WDF & affiliate of BDO). We cater for men, ladies & youth who take part in leagues, competitions and a youth academy for the correct development of the sport. Tel: Darren 54027171 Secretary, Alex 54021672 Youth Rep, Justin 54022622 President. Email: info@ gibraltardarts.com Football: Gibraltar Football Association leagues/competitions for all ages OctoberMay. Futsal in summer, Victoria Stadium. Tel: 20042941 www.gibraltarfa.com Gaelic Football Club (Irish sport): Males any age welcome. Get fit, play sport, meet new friends, travel around Spain/Europe and play an exciting and competitive sport. Training every Wed on the MOD pitch on Devil’s Tower Road at 7pm. Andalucia League with Seville and Marbella to play matches home and away monthly. Visit www.gibraltargaels. com or secretary.gibraltar.europe@gaa.ie Hockey: Gibraltar Hockey Association (members FIH & EHF) high standard competitions/training for adults/juniors. Tel: Eric 200 74156 or Peter 200 72730 for info.

Iaido: teaches the Japanese sword (Katana), classes every week. www.iaidogibraltar.com Ice Skating: Gibraltar Rock Stars Figure Skating Club lessons every Tuesday evening & Saturday morning, all levels including adults. Contact grsfsc@gmail.com or 58700000 Iwa Dojo, Kendo & Jujitsu: Classes every week, for kids/adults. Tel: 54529000 www. iwadojo.com or dbocarisa@iwadojo.com Judo and Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Budokai Judo Association UKMAF recognised instructors for all ages and levels at Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Wellington Front. Tel: Charlie 20043319.

Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Ju-jitsu Academy training and grading for juniors/seniors held during the evening at 4 North Jumpers Bastion.

Tel: 54011007.

Karate-do Shotokai: Gibraltar Karate-do Shotokai Association - Karate training for junior & seniors at Clubhouse, Shotokai karate centre, 41H Town Range. Monday: 9:30 p.m. & Wednesday 9:45 p.m.

Karate: Shotokan karate midday Mon beginners, other students 8.30pm. Thurs 8.30pm. In town at temporary dojo or privately by arrangement. Contact Frankie 54038127 or info@fhmedia.co.uk.

Motorboat Racing: Gibraltar Motorboat Racing Association Tel: Wayne 200 75211.

Muay Thai and Muay Boran Club: Tues & Thur at Boyd’s Kings Bastion Leisure Centre at 6:30pm, Tel: John – 54024707 FB: Gibraltar Muay Thai Netball: Gibraltar Netball Association (affiliated FENA & IFNA) competitions through year, senior/junior leagues. Tel: 20041874.

Petanque: Gibraltar Petanque Association.

New members welcome. Tel: 54002652.

Pilates: Intermediate Pilates: Tues & Fri 9.30am, beginners Pilates: Fri 10.50am at the Shotokai Centre, 41H Town Range. Tel: 54033465 or pilatesgibraltar@hotmail.com Gibraltar Pool Association: (Member of the EBA) home and away league played on Thurs throughout the season, various tournaments played on a yearly basis both nationally and internationally, Tel: 56925000 gibpool@ gibtelecom.net, www.gib8ball.com

Rhythmic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Rhythmic Gymnastics Association runs sessions from 4 years of age, weekday evenings. Tel: 56000772 or Sally 200 74661.

Rugby: Gibraltar Rugby caters for all ages from 4 years old to veterans (over 35’s). It organises competitions and sessions for Juniors; 4 x Senior Clubs; Veterans team; Touch Rugby and a Referees Society. Email admin@gibraltarrfu. com or visit www.gibraltarrfu.com Sailing: Gibraltar Yachting Association junior/ senior competitive programme (April - Oct) Tel: Royal Gibraltar Yacht Club at 200 78897.

Shooting: Gibraltar Shooting Federation. Rifle, Europa Point Range (Stephanie 54020760); Clay pigeon, East Side (Harry 200 74354); Pistol, near Royal Naval Hospital (Louis 54095000).

Snooker: Members of European Billiards & Snooker Association - facilities at Jumpers Bastion with 3 tables. Professional coaching for juniors/seniors. Organised leagues/ tournaments and participation in international competitions. Tel: 56262000 / 54000068, or info@gibraltarsnooker.com Squash: Gibraltar Squash Association, Squash Centre, South Pavilion Road (members WSF & ESF). Adult and junior tournaments and coaching. Tel: 200 44922.

Sub-Aqua: Gibraltar Sub-Aqua Association taster dives for over 14s, tuition from local clubs. Voluntary sports clubs: Noah’s Dive Club and 888s Dive Club. Tel: 54991000.

Commercial sports diving schools available.

Time - Thursday 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m..

Telephone, Jenssen Ellul - 54027122 Swimming: Gibraltar Amateur Swimming Association (member FINA & LEN) opens its pool for leisure swimming. Junior lessons, squad for committed swimmers, water polo.

Pool open Mon&Thurs: 7-10am, 12.30-4pm.

Tue, Wed, Fri: 7-10am, 12:30-5pm. Sat: 3-5pm.

Sun: closed. Mon to Fri from 5-6pm groups training. 6-7.30 squad training. Mon, Wed, Fri 7.30-8.30 swimming joggers, Tues & Thurs 7:30-8:30 junior Water polo. Mon, Tues & Thurs 8:30-10pm Adult water polo. Tel: 200 72869.

Table Tennis: Gibraltar Table Tennis Association training and playing sessions, Victoria Stadium, Tues 6-10pm and Thurs 8-11pm with coaching and league competition. Tel: 56070000 or 20060720.

Taekwondo: Gibraltar Taekwondo Association classes/gradings Tel: Mari 20044142 or www. gibraltartaekwondo.org Tai Chi: Tai Chi for children and adults. MonThur 6.30-8pm at Kings Bastion Leisure Centre and Sat 9am-1pm at the Yoga Centre, 33 Town Range. Tel: Dilip 200 78714.

Tennis and Paddle Tennis: Sandpits Club.

Junior and adult training available. info : www. sandpits.club. Tel (Louis) 20077035 Ten-Pin Bowling: At King’s Bowl in the King’s Bastion Leisure Centre every day. Gibraltar Ten Pin Bowling (members FIQ & WTBA) leagues, training for juniors and squad. Tel: 200 52442.

Triathlon: Hercules Triathlon Club organises swimming, running and cycling training sessions and competes regularly in Andalucia and Internationally. Contact chris.walker@york.gi or Facebook “Hercules Triathlon Club” Volleyball: Gibraltar Volleyball Association training, indoor leagues, beach volleyball competition, 3 v 3 competition, juniors and seniors. Tel: 54001973 or 54885000.

Yoga: Integral Yoga Centre runs a full programme of classes from Mon-Fri at 33 Town Range. Tel: 200 41389. All welcome.

Theatrical Groups Gibraltar Amateur Drama Association: Meet at Ince’s Hall Theatre Complex, 310 Main Street.

Tel: 20042237.

Trafalgar Theatre Group: Meets 2nd Wed of month, Garrison Library 8pm.

All welcome.

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R U N W A Y

Victoria Stadium

3

4

REFERENDUM HOUSE ←→ SOUTH BARRACKS

Market Place loop (Eastbound)

http://www.gibraltarbuscompany.gi

Routes operated by

BOTH WORLDS ←→ ROSIA

Rosia loop (Northbound)

MARKET PLACE ←→ EUROPA POINT

3

Midtown loop (Southbound) Midtown loop (Northbound)

Ocean Village

Glacis Kiosk

WILLIS’s ROAD

MOUNT ALVERNIA ←→ ORANGE BASTION

AIRPORT/FRONTIER ←→ TRAFALGAR

EUROTOWERS ←→ ROSIA

http://citibus.gi

H

Bishop Canilla House

PLACES OF INTEREST

Coach Park

Cable Car

Airport

Lighthouse

Cathedral

Museum

BI

Taxis

Seaport

Castle

Beach

Stadium

Trafalgar Cemetery

QUEENSWAY

King’s Wharf

Queensway Quay

Referendum Gates

MAIN STREET

Commonwealth Park

Mid-Harbour Estate

Europort Building 8

A AN RU CA D OP A SH RO

Edinburgh House

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10

PRINCE EDWARDS ROAD

Eliott’s Way

48 BOTH WORLDS

ROSIA ROAD

Alameda Governor’s House Meadow House Victoria House

H KS RO AD

BA RR AC

Mount Pleasant

3

New Harbours

Cumberland Jumpers Road Building

South Gates

New Mole House

Garrison Gym

© VK (2018)

ce ur So

Gibraltar Bus Network

rg p.o ma et tre ns pe O :

Rosia Plaza

North Gorge

Eliott’s Battery

March 2019 version : correct at time of going to print

Map of Gibraltar

University of Gibraltar

EUROPA POINT

2

Schematic Diagram of Bus Network (not to scale)

Buena Vista

Mosque

BUS NETWORK

GIBRALTAR

9 ROSIA ROSIA 4

Brympton

EUROPA ROAD

SOUTH BARRACKS

SOUTH PAVILION ROAD

St. Joseph’s School

MOUNT ALVERNIA

Schomberg

SO UT

Shorthorn Farm

7

R e s e r v e

Rock Old Hotel Casino

RED SANDS ROAD

Lower Flat Bastion Rd Wilson’s Gardiner’s Ramp Road

Morello’s Ramp

TRAFALGAR Convent Place

Blackstrap Cove

N a t u r e

FLAT BASTION ROAD

Sacred Heart Church

Flat Bastion Rd

R o c k

Caleta Hotel

RECLAMATION Cathedral ROAD Square

King’s Bastion

Arengo’s Palace

PORT St. Bernard’s EURO Hospital GASA Swimming Pool

ROAD

Varyl Begg Estate

MONTAGU GARDENS

9

British War Memorial

LINE WALL ROAD

BOTH WORLDS ←→ RECLAMATION ROAD

Artillery Arms

WILLIS’s ROAD

MAIN STREET MAIN STREET

Moorish Castle Estate

AIRPORT/FRONTIER ←→ RECLAMATION ROAD

Albert Risso House

Sir William Jackson Grove

Waterport Road

QUEENSWAY

Orange Bastion

Fishmarket Steps

1

William’s Way

U p p e r

SIR HERBERT MILES ROAD

1 2 MARKET PLACE

CASEMATES

Routes operated by

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9

8

7

5

Notre Dame School

Faulknor House

Constitution House

REFERENDUM HOUSE

WINSTON CHURCHILL AVENUE

Park & Ride

MARKET PLACE ←→ WILLIS’S ROAD

R U N W A Y

2

1

BUS ROUTES

5 10

AIRPORT/ FRONTIER

DEVIL’S TOWER RO AD

St. Theresa’s Church

GLACIS ROAD

Eastern Beach

CORRAL ROAD

WATERPORT ROAD

C A R C A B L E

Catalan Bay

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restaurants, bars & pubs THE LOUNGE

SOLO BAR & GRILL

ALL’S WELL

Stylish Lounge Gastro Bar on Queensway Quay Marina serving best quality food prepared by passionate, qualified chefs.

Popular quiz on Sundays from 7pm and a relaxed friendly atmosphere. A separate Lounge Bar Area serving a wide range of hot drinks, wines, beers, spirits and cocktails at reasonable prices, with large TV’s for sports and events coverage.

Solo Bar and Grill is a stylish and modern eatery — perfect for business functions or lunches — and part of the popular Cafe Solo stable. Serving everything from Goats’ Cheese Salad, Mediterranean Pâté and Cajun Langoustines to Beer Battered John Dory, or Harissa Chicken, and Chargrilled Sirloin Steak. This is a delightful venue in Europort with a cosy mezzanine level and terrace seating. Well worth a visit, or two! Available for private functions and corporate events — call 200 62828 to book your function or event.

In the fashionable Casemates square stands Gibraltar’s last historical themed pub, named for the 18th-century practice of locking gates to the city at night when the guard called ‘All’s Well’. Their food menu caters to all cravings; whether it’s fish and chips, a homemade pie, or maybe even a delicious sharing platter, they have it all. All’s Well have an amazing range of bottled beers as well as being the only pub in Gibraltar to offer craft beer on tap. Happy hour is daily from 7-9pm. Large terrace. Karaoke Mondays & Wednesdays until late.

Open: 10am-late Mon - Sun Be sure to arrive early to ensure a seat!

The Lounge, 17 Ragged Staff Wharf, Queensway Quay Marina Tel: 200 61118 info@thelounge.gi

Open: 12-8pm. Solo Bar & Grill, Eurotowers Tel: 200 62828

29 Dec ‘20 – 04 Jan ‘21

DUTY PHARMACY OPENING HOURS

05 Jan '21 to 11 Jan '21

Monday to Friday (7pm to 9pm) Weekends & public holidays (11am to 1pm & 6pm to 8pm)

12 Jan '21 to 18 Jan '21

For updates, check facebook.com/PharmaGuide

19 Jan '21 to 25 Jan '21

26 Jan '21 to 01 Feb '21

All’s Well, Casemates Square. Tel: 200 72987

Calpe Pharmacy ICC

Unit G9, ICC 200 77977

Wesley Pharmacy

299b Main Street 200 67567

Trafalgar West One

Unit G1 Eurotowers 200 44406

Crown Pharmacy

4 Casemates Square 200 78598

Valmar Europort

1.0.08 Eurotowers 200 63868

CHESS PUZZLE ANSWER: 26 Rxg7+ Kxg7 27 Qg5 + Kh8 28 Be7 when the threat of Bf6 + will win.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

91

Show Us Your Mag!

SHOW US YOUR MAG! Send us a snap of with your copy of Gib Mag for a chance to win our next competition, and see your photo here!

Email editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com or tag us on social media. #ShowUsYourMag

Š PAUL COELHO

thegibraltarmagazine

Liked by you and 365,999 others thegibraltarmagazine

Š Paul Coelho. Have you taken a picture in

or of Gibraltar? Snap and send to editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com! thegibraltarmagazine #gibgems #gibraltar #thegibraltarmagazine #gibraltarmagazine #publication #visitgibraltar #therockofgibraltar #mediterraneanlife

Kid's Korner

Can you name all the fruit and vegetables?

Extra points: Circle all the fruit only!

Try to find all 6 words!

CAT DOG BIRD PIG COW DUCK

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

coffee time CROSSWORD 1

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1. Blind; someone closing (7)

1. Decoration on a character or letter (5)

8. Collection of unusual foreign items (7)

2. Rust in plants (5)

10. Detonate (7)

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15. Group of usually classical musicians (9) 21. Conservative party thinking (7)

12. Last; rump; buttocks (4) 14. Near; soon (4)

22. & 18. When the 3 arrive; Shakespeare play (7,5)

15. Ban; eg Robin Hood (6)

23. Musically lively and/or fast (7)

17. Jungle drum; Satnav system (3,3)

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Write your name and either SNAP and SEND your completed crossword to editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com or RETURN TO THE CLIPPER by 20 th January.

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December 2020 Answers

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16. Songs or hymns sung at Christmas (6)

SUDOKU

lunch for two at

2

6. Fountain in Copenhagen (6) 7. Not a decent person (3,3)

& YOU COULD WIN

B O X

5. Ghostly images of a living person (13)

18. See 22ac (5)

24. Film etc. which you cannot miss (4,3)

1

3. Visitors on 22. & 18. at this time of year (3,5,5) 4. Pays for a subscription for example a second time (6)

11. Surface bubbles in a drink for example (5)

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9. Girl’s school in Sussex (7)

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QUEEN’S GAMBIT

BY GRANDMASTER RAY KEENE OBE Coinciding with the world beating viewer statistics for the Netflix series Queens Gambit, FIDE, The International Chess Federation, is proud to announce that Gibraltar is hosting the final stage of the Women’s FIDE Grand Prix, to be played from January 17-29, 2021.

Queens Gambit, based on the Walter Tevis novel, covers the stratospheric rise to world chess stardom of the fictional character, Beth Harmon, a sort of female Bobby Fischer. Garry Kasparov himself acted as adviser to the series.

According to FIDE, the cooperation agreement between Her Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar, the organisers of the Gibraltar Chess Festival, and FIDE itself, will bring to Gibraltar yet again the best female chess players in the world. But this time, they will be competing in a crucial event in the race for the World Championship title, since the two best players from the Women’s Grand Prix Series qualify directly for the Candidates Tournament.

Hosting this prestigious event opens a new chapter in Gibraltar’s continued tradition of supporting chess, in general, and the best female chess players, in particular.

Since the inception of the Gibraltar Chess Festival in 2003, almost all the world’s top female players have taken part, including the greatest woman player of all time, Judit Polgar, as well as a total of seven Women’s World Champions.

The Caleta Hotel, the traditional venue for this annual gathering of great minds, will be turned into an isolated environment to ensure the safety of the participants, and avoid any risks associated with COVID-19. There will be no other guests in the hotel during the entire duration of the event apart from the participants and the organising team, and the competition will be held subject to and in accordance with Gibraltar Government Health Protocols.

The Minister for Sport, Hon. Steven Linares expressed his satisfaction about bringing this event to Gibraltar: “Our commitment to chess is clear for all to see, and hosting the Women’s FIDE Grand Prix locally just reinforces this pledge. The fact that FIDE has entrusted Gibraltar with the 4th stage of the series is a testament to the hard work that has ensured that we are considered a worthy organizer and reliable host. This is in no small part due to the tireless efforts of Brian Callaghan OBE and his team at the Caleta Hotel who have organised and developed the Gibraltar International Chess Festival into world-class events.”

“We are proud to be partnering with the government of Gibraltar and the organizers of this prestigious chess festival. After Skolkovo, Monaco, and Lausanne, we couldn’t think of a better venue than Gibraltar to host the final event in the Women Grand Prix Series,” added the FIDE President, Arkady Dvorkovich. “It is in these difficult times when sports, as

coffee time 31. Rexd6+ Kc8

well as intellectual activities, are crucial to society, and chess unites both aspects combined in a thrilling, competitive game. Chess is respected and appreciated by the people of Gibraltar, and it receives resolute support from its authorities, for which I am very grateful.”

Women’s FIDE Grand Prix Series: www.wgp2019.fide.com

Visit Gibraltar (Official Tourist board website): www.visitgibraltar.gi White: Judit Polgar Black: Garry Kasparov Russia vs. Rest of the World Rapid Tournament, Russia 2002 Opening: Ruy Lopez Berlin Defence

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6

33. Kg2 Rh2+ 34. Kf3 R2h3+ 35. Ke4 b6 36. Rc6+ Kb8 37. Rd7 Rh2 38. Ke3 Rf8 39. Rcc7 Rxf5 40. Rb7+ Kc8 16. g4 Be7 17. Kg2 h5 18. Nf5 Bf8 19. Kf3 Bg6 20. Rd2 hxg4+ 21. hxg4 Rh3+ 22. Kg2 Rh7 23. Kg3 f6 Very strong now is 24 e6 but White’s choice is also good.

The Berlin Defence encourages early simplification and is not really in Kasparov’s style.

24. Bf4 Bxf5 25. gxf5 fxe5 26. Re1 Bd6 27. Bxe5 Kd7 28. c4 c5 29. Bxd6 cxd6 30. Re6 Rah8

4. O-O Nxe4 5. d4 Nd6 6. Bxc6 dxc6 7. dxe5 Nf5 8. Qxd8+ Kxd8 9. Nc3 h6 10. Rd1+ Ke8 11. h3 Be7 12. Ne2 Nh4 13. Nxh4 Bxh4 14. Be3 Bf5 15. Nd4 Bh7 Black should have kept his Bishop on the c8 to h3 diagonal so ...Be6 is more resilient.

Black’s weak pawn on d6 is decisive and the counter play from his rooks is not sufficient to save him.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021

41. Rdc7+ Kd8 42. Rxg7 Kc8 After 43 Rxa7 Kb8 44 Raf7 White’s extra pawns will win easily.

Black resigned

Puzzle:

White: Judit Polgar Black: Peter Prohaszka 39th Greek Teams Tournament, Eretrea Greece 2002 Opening: Caro-Kann Defense

Position before white’s 26th move.

White to play. How did Judit force a quick and spectacular win?

97

Answer on page 91

Gibraltar Chess Festival: www.gibchess.com

32. R2d5 Rh3+

WE GO TO IKEA FOR YOU contact

www.ikeagibraltardirect.com ikeagibraltardirect@gmail.com 19 City Mill Lane Gibraltar +350 200 76262

little dictionary

lethologica noun when a particular word or name escapes your memory

e.g. He was hit by lethologica when asking for a pencil, and so asked for the 'writing thingamabob' instead.

29 City Mill Lane, Gibraltar +350 200 72470 / info@littleenglish.eu

NEW F-TYPE

LIFE CAN TAKE SOME INTERESTING TURNS.

The New F-TYPE. Torque Vectoring by Braking. monocoque for precise, agile handling.

Just imagine where it could take you.

A.M Capurro 20 Line Wall Road, Gibraltar +350 200 75149 capurro.gi

Official Fuel Consumption for the F-Type range l/100km (mpg): Combine 8.1 - 11l (34.9 - 26.6). NEDCeq CO2 Emissions 184 - 252 g/km. The figure provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ.

CO2 and fuel economy figures may vary according to factors such as driving styles, environmental conditions, load and accessories. *Only available on F-Type 450PS and 575PS V8 vehicles. Optional features shown.

finance

DHL Express is the global market leader in the international express business, so you probably already know that we can deliver your documents and parcels from Gibraltar to virtually every country in the world.

What you might not know is that we can also take care of all your importing requirements.

For further information please contact: DHL Gibraltar Unit 36 Harbours Deck, New Harbours, Gibraltar Tel: 200 72210 Email: GIBSN@dhl.com GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JUNE 2014

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