Olive Press Newspaper - Issue 190 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

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Vol. 8 Issue 190 www.theolivepress.es

June 25 - July 9 2014

BATTLE BEGINS AFTER HACKING OF MOTORING ADVICE WEBSITE

Feeling the pressure

The Olive Press helps Gordon with his new TV show See Page 3

San Juan on the coast The ‘festival of fire’ lit up the beaches of the Costa del Sol See Page 9

HEAD-ON COLLISION Motoring expert Brian Deller and pet lover David ‘The Dogman’ Klein lock horns over international driving ‘licences’ controversially sold by Klein to expats for hundreds of euros

TWO of the coast’s best known expats have locked horns in a vicious spat over the sale of controversial international driving ‘licences’. It comes after Spain’s leading expat motoring writer Brian Deller found his advice website had been hacked and redirected to that of David ‘the Dogman’ Klein’s Costa del Sol Action Group. Conveniently, it meant that his critical section on the costs and necessity of the ‘licence’ offered by Klein was also erased. But now Deller, 76, has sought legal advice and got his website back after a three-week struggle, involving numerous calls and emails to Klein.

Risky

Dancing into the records We join the fun at Estepona’s own world record attempt See Page 22

He also contacted his employers at Talk Radio Europe, where Klein presents a weekly pet show. The DJ has sold hundreds of permits - via a classified advert with his mobile phone number - for over a decade. When contacted by a pro-

EXCLUSIVE By Tom Powell

ROAD WARS: Deller (left) had his website replaced by Klein’s. (Right and top) a licence and Klein’s ad

I was taken for a ride ... ONE angry punter – who wished to remain anonymous - told the Olive Press they purchased an international driving permit from Klein for €450 in 2006, after moving to Spain from the Middle East and spotting an advert in Sur in English newspaper. The licence is blue and passport-like, with the words ‘worldwide community of vehicle operators’ on the front. The word ‘licence’ is spelt inconsistently throughout, with both the American spective client on behalf of the Olive Press, this week, Klein offered a ‘10-year licence’ for €300, but admitted it was ‘risky’. “I can get you an international licence that will last for 10 years, but it is a risk (to use it in Spain).” He continued: “Should you be stopped, some police might say everything is OK, while others will fine you.” This is because the document is illegal to use as your sole driving licence in Spain, and Deller points out they are actually ‘useless’ for expats here. But this has not stopped Klein charging up to €450 atime, while similar permits are easily obtainable from Spain’s

‘license’ and the English ‘licence’ in the same sentence in one instance. “It was so badly done I was worried about driving past police,” said the client. “It looked pretty amatear and the picture on the card was also out of focus.” International driving permits are only necessary for people travelling to a foreign country, not residents, and they are worthless without an original licence too.

Traffic department for less than €20, or the AA in the UK for just €12. Klein confirmed this week that he had been arrested over the allegations of selling illegal licences in 2007, but that he was eventually found not guilty at Malaga High court. “I was found not guilty and as a result I feel happy to continue selling the permits,” Klein told the Olive Press. “I clearly state that this is not a licence. This is an international driving permit which requires people to use their own licence with it,” he added. However in the adverts, which appear in publications including The News, the per-

mits are offered clearly as ‘licences’ (see above), a discrepancy he has failed to clear up. Either way, Klein - who lives with his wife in Nueva Andalucia - is adamant they are legal. “Why shouldn’t I sell them? If they want to go to Trafico or the AA they can. I wouldn’t Turn to page 2

Who’s the daddy?

KIDS: Ingrid and Alberto and ex-king A BELGIAN and a Catalan could become new members of the Royal Family, if their paternity suits are successful. Alberto Sola Jimenez, 58, from Catalunya, and Ingrid Jeanne Satiau, from Brussels, both claim to be the illegitimate offspring of the former king, who abdicated last week. Two lawsuits, which were filed separately by them in 2012, could now go forward, with the king having now lost his immunity to prosecution and court cases. Politicians have admitted they are now rushing to pass new legislation to protect the ex-ruler, 76, who abdicated after a 39-year reign.

Seducer

According to a senior politician, amendments will be added to a package of judicial reforms so that only the Supreme Court can hear cases against him. Two years ago, a devastating book by Spanish journalist Pilar Eyre suggested that Juan Carlos was a professional seducer who had bedded more than 1,500 women. He was even rumoured to have made a pass at Princess Diana, when she was a guest at the former king’s summer palace in Majorca in 1986. Coronation Special on Page 4

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Sola and Satiau have become close, having met in Barcelona in June. Should his court case be successful, the Catalan would technically have a right to be the country’s rightful monarch. However, he said: “I don’t seek any of this and my brother Felipe has my full support.”

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

CRIME NEWS

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ISLAMIST CLAMPDOWN

Multiple arrests in Madrid of gang recruiting for ISIS in their current bloody insurgency in Iraq

ON AIR: Klein at TRE

Risky game

By Carey Camel POLICE raids in Madrid have resulted in the arrests of eight suspected recruiters for the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) militant group. The gang - referred to as the new Al-Qaeda were responsible for channelling soldiers to fight against Iraq’s government in the current insurgency. According to reports, one of the eight is from Spain, while the others are residents

From frontpage

ARRESTS: suspected ISIS recruiters

of Argentina and Morocco. The police have identified the leader of this ring of alleged jihadists as Lahcen Ikasrrien. Ikasrrien - a former inmate of the US military prison at Guantanamo THE son of Spain’s Justice Minister Alberto RuizBay, Cuba - was Gallardon is demanding an apology from El Pais, released in 2005 after he was accused of drink-driving. for lack of evidence It is alleged that the 28-year-old crashed into sevand allowed to reeral cars and also nearly ran over a woman, before turn to Spain.

Drunken justice? parking his white Lancia in his father’s garage in downtown Madrid. Eyewitnesses described his ‘evident drunkenness’ to police after seeing him then stagger into the building across the street. Bodyguards stationed outside the minister’s home also confirmed the young driver was one of the minister’s sons when questioned by police.

Bomber

The Madrid police raids were also conducted in search of the brother of one of ACCUSED: Utrera the Madrid train

Expensive

It’s a trap!

SOME 400 sub-Saharan migrants have been trapped in the fences between Morocco and Melilla after an attempt to cross the border. The sub-Saharans managed to climb the first of Melilla’s triple-fence border protections but got caught in a corridor separating two metal fences. While heavily criticised by human rights campaigners, the newly installed mesh structures impede climbing and slow movements across the border, causing damage to fingers in the process. Both Spanish and Moroccan security forces have been deployed, and the Moroccan government will take responsibility for the 150 who have been detained by the Spanish Guardia Civil.

bother doing it unless I’m earning €100,” he said this night. Expat Deller - himself a former motoring correspondent on TRE and the author of big-selling book Motoring in Spain - begs to differ. He insists that that there is ‘absolutely no need for the licences’, a fact that he had pointed out on his website. He also angrily denounced that the site, www.Spainvia. com, was ‘hacked’ into so visitors were redirected to the Costa del Sol Action Group website. However, Klein - who has newspaper columns in both the Euro Weekly News and the News Monthly Review denied any knowledge of the hacking and insisted that Deller was ‘wrong’.

FREEDOM IN SIGHT: European dream

Dave’s permission for Amy vigil A MAN awaiting trial for the murder of his son-in-law is being allowed to visit Spain. Despite being charged for the murder of Dean Fitzpatrick,last year, Dave Mahon has been granted permission to return to Mijas this autumn to attend a vigil for Dean’s sister Amy Fitzpatrick, who went missing in 2008. Dean Fitzpatrick was killed in 2013 in Dublin after he had allegedly gone to confront Mahon over the disappearance of his sister Amy in Calahonda on New Year’s Day. Mahon, 43, was granted bail of €10,000, with his father Michael Mahon as an independent surety in the sum of €5,000. He claims he organises a vigil every year to ‘keep Amy in the public eye’.

“Brian Deller can’t blame me for something wrong with his website, it’s Google’s problem,” he told the Olive Press. “Google is responsible for misdirecting.” He was unable to elaborate further. Klein’s action group, set up with partner John Parsons, purports to root out ‘unqualified, unregulated, unscrupulous’ financial investment products on the coast. It claims to have over 1,000 members and to have won back £4 million for clients to date. Deller had been approached by Klein to sell his driving permits after his book - which sells in WHSmith, Waterstones and on Amazon - was first published in 2004. “I did admittedly sell one to a South African man for €450, before I realised they were totally unofficial,” said Deller, who lives in Sotogrande, having moved from South Africa in 1999. “It had been made in Taiwan, was very expensive and I quickly discovered that the official sources are much cheaper and actually legally recognised. “I’m very angry about what’s happened to my site and we have consulted lawyers over it,” he added. Leading Marbella lawyer Antonio Flores believes Klein is playing a ‘very risky game’. He said: “No individual can sell an international driving licence. At most, you can advise someone on how to go about applying for one. “Klein is purporting to be the purveyor of these international driving licences, which is wrong. “If he is acting merely as an intermediary, and charges whatever the parties convene, that is different.”

NEWS

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Cheese, chorizo and rock’n’roll RAZORLIGHT frontman Jonny Borrell has revealed he spent a good chunk of his youth wandering aimlessly around Spain, living off cheese, chorizo and Ducados. The 33-year-old drew musical inspiration from his travels, going on to produce number one singles and headline the Reading festival in 2007 with Razorlight. “I worked out you could get chorizo and a piece of cheese for next to nothing from the market and, with water, could keep going for ever on that,” said Borrell, who famously dated Harry Potter starlet Emma Watson. “I also attempted to smoke as many cigarettes as the old Spanish men, but it can’t be done. “I learnt, as every Englishman does, that Ducados are not like any other cigarette and they were 10 pesetas cheaper for a reason.” Borrell’s father was a foreign correspondent, so the musician spent much of his childhood travelling and lived in Zimbabwe until the age of three.

TRAVELLER: Borrell and Emma Watson

Back on the market

THINGS look to be going back up in the world for Antonio Banderas following his split from Melanie Griffith. The Shrek star has purchased a stunning penthouse bachelor pad in the centre of his home town, Malaga. Meanwhile, Melanie Griffith has appeared on the red carpet without her wedding ring and with her ‘Antonio’ tattoo removed. However, the (broken) heart surrounding his name remained, in a poignant image. The 56-year-old split from Banderas, 53, after 18 years – one of the longest marriages in Hollywood. Banderas – who has always maintained he does not see Los Angeles as his home – plans to move back to Spain.

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

Miley stuns Madrid

MILEY Cyrus has raised Madrid’s heart-rate as her Bangerz tour gets wilder by the day. Decked out in a super-skimpy leotard made from $20 bills, the 21-year-old twerkster delighted the crowd. Her infamous tongue got more than a look-in, as the Disney diva made her entrance by sliding down a giant neon pink slide shaped like a tongue. Not content with twerking, bumping, grinding and bumshaking, Miley then decided to give herself a wince-inducing wedgie (see insert).

Olive Press adds necessary spice to help Gordon Ramsay cook up a storm during new TV show By Imogen Calderwood GORDON Ramsay is getting a helping hand from the Olive Press in a new TV show. The fiery 47-year-old chef – known for his serious temper and foul mouth – asked us to run a rule over a Gaucin restaurant for a new series of his Channel 4 show, Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares. A fan of the paper, he revealed he had been having an ‘amazing’ time in Andalucia over the last two months. “I love it down here. It’s amazing. And what a place Gaucin is!” said the Scottish chef, who owns or operates 24 restaurants around the world. We were asked to review charming La Granada Divino, to be featured in a forthcoming episode set to air in the autumn. He has already filmed two other recent episodes in Spain, one in Fuengirola at

Recipe for success

Jack’s Chicken Shack and another in Alicante. During filming, we were lucky enough to meet the British

Clegg ‘grounded’? DEPUTY Prime Minister Nick Clegg, 47, is under pressure to skip his beloved Spanish holiday. Senior Liberal Democrats – fearing for the future of the party – have urged Clegg to stay in the UK and volunteer for ‘ordinary jobs’ outside Westminster to repair his image this summer. In 1993, former Lib Dem leader Paddy Ashdown successfully spent some time outside of the ‘Westminster bubble’ to boost his own popularity. Clegg, however, may not agree NO SUN?: Clegg as he is fiercely protective of his regular holiday to Olmedo, the small town in northern Spain where he married his wife Miriam, a lawyer, 46, who comes from the town.

star and try his food alongside that of the restaurant’s head chef Neil Brown. As usual, Ramsay ‘threw a bomb’ into the recentlyopened eatery, owned by Costa couple Milan and Gina Varmuza. He bounced around in trainers shouting orders and generally throwing his weight around. During the week, he was also seen in Duquesa port, accompanied by his camera crew, where he drew an impressive crowd of curious holidaymakers. “He had us down in Duquesa handing out flyers and plates of food to promote the restaurant,” said a member of staff. “I am not sure it was quite our clientele, but we did what we were told. Gordon is the boss, after all.” It was good to see his famous quiff still standing tall – despite scurrilous ‘hair transplant’ rumours in the press.

Not all about Eve BRITISH designer Maximillion Cooper, 41, and American rapper Eve have tied the knot in Ibiza. An ecstatic Cooper - the founder of the Gumball 3000 car race - described the entire experience as ‘nothing less than incredible’. His new wife, 35, from Philadelphia, may have a different opinion, however, after spending months in Spain planning the event. This is Eve’s first marriage. Cooper, a father-of-four, has been married once before.

HARD SELL: Ramsay and owner Milan in Duquesa and (right) chef Brown

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the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

NEWS

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CORONATION SPECIAL, PART II

HUMBLE: Felipe’s pad

Staying put SPAIN’S recession royals are staying in their modest family home following the coronation. Felipe and Letizia, along with their daughters Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia, are staying put in the same royal residence they moved into after the couple’s wedding in 2004. The surprisingly understated property, built in 2002, is in the grounds of the 17th century Zarzuela Palace in Madrid. The only change to the home life will be that the new King will be taking over his father’s office (see right) in the main palace a short walk away.

Fraud princess misses big day PRINCESS Cristina was not present at her brother’s coronation, due to her involvement in an ongoing corruption scandal. Felipe’s elder sister, 49, is still awaiting a verdict on her suspected involvement in a €52 million money laundering and fraud scheme, run by her husband Inaki Urdangarin through his company Noos.

SM-ALL CHANGE

No new residence, but ‘recession royal’ insists on installing his own painting in Zarzuela palace office

IT was an austerity coronation to beat all others. As far as PR campaigns go it certainly got the message across to the masses. Apart from the fact that the bargain coronation had no foreign dignitaries or royalty, the new King Felipe VI has also made it clear he and his family will not be living in the extravagant Zarzuela Palace in Madrid. However, he will be using its main office, but with one key change. The first move of the new

INSPIRED: Felipe and Carlos III, and (right) old painting king was a spot of symbolic decorating as he took over his dad’s office in the palace. Felipe has stripped the wall of its former centrepiece - a painting of Felipe de Borbon,

120 snipers protected new king

A TOTAL of 120 snipers covered proceedings on coronation day with the heaviest concentration of security surrounding parliament and the royal palace. Due to anti-monarchist demonstrations a total of 6,700 police officers were brought in to patrol the city.

Cristina, who is said to have fallen out with Queen Letizia over the allegations, is facing 11 years in prison.

who later became the future Duke of Parma and founder of the Borbon-Parma dynasty. In its place now sits an oil painting of King Carlos III, an enlightened monarch renowned for his development of science and culture. He was also the mayor of Madrid. Let’s hope the change of decor is an inspiration to the new king.

Muck in for Marbs! MARBELLA Town Hall has launched an audacious bid to get another 5,000 expats signing onto its register. Mayor Angeles Munoz hopes to get this number onto the ‘padron’, in order to bring the town’s official population up from 145,000 to 150,000. If Marbella can reach this figure, it will go into the next town size bracket and get a substantial increase in funding from central govern-

Watchdog claims Spain’s car-hire firms are scamming thousands of holidaymakers THOUSANDS of tourists are being ripped off by Spanish car-hire firms each year. Hidden charges are catching more than three-quarters of holiday-makers unaware, according to a study by British consumer watchdog Which? Even well-known international companies have been accused of trying to beat the recession by exploiting their

Taken for a ride customers. Which? found evidence of one scam – the ‘full-empty’ fuel policy – being used widely throughout Spain and in many other parts of Europe. This scam sees holidaymakers forced to pay for a full tank of petrol – usually at a price way beyond that of local garages – but not refunded

EXPAT Daniela Mari Curtis certainly has specs appeal. The Briton has been named as the winner in Specsavers Optica’s Spectacle Wearer of the Year Awards. After a month-long competition, the judges decided the Torrevieja resident had the best look. They particularly liked her natural self-portrait in her bold, darkrimmed frames. She won a makeover, photo shoot, and a pair of designer frames.

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

News IN BRIEF

ment. “This will create more facilities for the town and provide a better service,” said Munoz. Estimates suggest there are more than 200,000 permanent residents in Marbella, with another 55,000 failing to register, the majority expats. Funds for town councils are calculated based on the number of inhabitants, which is why the campaign is so important for the town.

True Specs appeal

SPECSPAT: Daniela Mari Curtis

NEWS

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for unused fuel on return. This is despite the fact many tourists have little opportunity to use a full tank of petrol during their holiday - especially those visiting small Spanish islands such as Menorca or Mallorca. A tourist hiring a Fiat 500, for example, would have to drive the 80-mile round trip from Palma Airport to the far side of Mallorca nearly seven times to use all the fuel they were forced to buy. The Olive Press receives regular complaints about car-hire companies, and has conducted investigations into several, including Brian’s Rent-a-Car, One Way van hire, and Niza. Deposits were finally returned to Niza car hire customers in March after an exclusive Olive Press investigation revealed that hundreds had waited for months to get their money back.

Poop patrol BENALMADENA has employed a new cleaner tasked with the job of cleaning up dog excrement from public areas and handing out plastic bags.

Summer buses MIJAS will add extra night buses during the summer months from June 23 to September 7, principally from the Pueblo to Benalmadena and from Calahonda to Fuengirola.

Expat rise NON-RESIDENT foreigners are buying 20% of Spain’s properties, with the British making up 13.8% of these, Spanish notaries have revealed.

€231 million for inland tourism

ANDALUCIA’S Junta is investing a massive €231 million into ‘inland tourism’. The large investment is aimed to boost visitor numbers to inland towns, such as Ronda, Antequera and Sevilla. The money is set to be divided between 700 municipalities across the region over the next six years.

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FEATURE

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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OPINION In the dog house DAVID ‘the dogman’ Klein can argue over the technical legalities of international driving licences, or ‘permits’, as much as he likes. But he cannot deny the overwhelming irony of the affair. For Klein runs the Costa del Sol Action Group, that claims to prevent people being ripped off by unregulated financial advisors, while brazenly selling these ‘licences’ at a hugely over inflated price. Klein, a longtime coastal resident, should know better. Whatever, it is a decidedly murky area and the Olive Press salutes pensioner Brian Deller for having the guts to let people know the truth about international driving permits. So it really is a strange coincidence that silly old Google mistakenly ‘redirected’ Deller’s revealing website to Klein’s own. What are the chances eh?

Dark side of El Rocio

Rooting out the rot CORRUPTION is rife at all levels of Spanish society. From the prime minister to the royal family and from the Junta to Estepona Town Hall, they are all allegedly happy to take a bung. But luckily Spain is starting to sit up and take note of this institutionalised corruption. It’s great to see Princess Cristina set to face charges over alleged money laundering, while the vice president of the European Investment Bank Magdalena Alvarez is set to lose her job. Now even expats are starting to fight back against those trying to take them for a ride. As long as there are honest judges like Mercedes Alaya around (and papers, like the Olive Press prepared to report on corruption), the country has a chance to close this sad, dark chapter in its development. One day maybe.

Spain’s star-studded summer IT is the time of year when Spain is absolutely crawling with celebrities of varying degrees of fame and talent. The less said the better about TOWIE and the failing England football stars, at least we’ve had Joan Collins and Samuel L Jackson to boost the IQ rating. Miley Cyrus meanwhile – with her signature smug look and stuck-out tongue - hit Madrid on her Bangerz tour, strutting her stuff in a ‘gratuitous’ leotard, studded with dollar bills. The ex-Disney star may have changed her aesthetic, but how clever she is at manipulating the media. Meanwhile Gordon Ramsay has been messing around in Gaucin, turning around a restaurant for his show Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares. It’s no surprise then to see Hollywood A-list actor Antonio Banderas swapping the US for little ole Malaga city, where he has just bought himself a new home. Welcome back Puss in Boots!

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the

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olive press

Tel: 951127006 (admin/editorial/sales/advertising) or admin@theolivepress.es or sales@theolivepress.es A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in southern Spain - 200,000 copies distributed monthly (130,000 digitally) with an estimated readership, including the website, of more than 500,000 people a month. Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: Imogen@theolivepress.es B91664029 Admin / Distribution / Accounts: Urb Casares del Sol, bloque 21, portal Anna Cockell 951127006 70, bajo b, Casares 29690, Malaga accounts@theolivepress.es Printed by Corporación de Medios Gilly Lee de Andalucía S.A. admin@theolivepress.es Editor: Jon Clarke SALES TEAM: jon@theolivepress.es Stephen Shutes 655825683 Reporters: Classified Newsdesk Newsdesk@theolivepress.es Sarah Adams 655825683 Giles Brown Axarquia Giles@theolivepress.es Charlie Bamber 661 452 180 Tom Powell Cadiz Elizabeth Gould 683 337 342 Tom@theolivepress.es Imogen Calderwood

The heat, exhaustion and lack of water make Andalucia’s most famous pilgrimage a nightmare for those doing the carrying, writes Olive Press blogger Mary Biles

T is a spectacular sight. The inducing levels. streets of Sevilla lined with In total 13 animals died (four bulky oxen pulling gypsy- less than last year), as winds style caravans while proud of change seem to be bringAndalucian stallions flick their ing more consciousness to the tails excitedly. general public, if not the hardA dark-eyed young woman ap- core Rocieros themselves. A plies thick lipstick, while sit- Malaga based animal charity El ting side-saddle on her steed, Refugio Burrito decided to take dressed exuberantly in a polka- affirmative action and go undot flamenco dercover to find dress and hard evidence A pony, blind in matching flowof cases of one eye, lame er in her hair. animal cruelty. The beer is alAnd sadly they and with a bloody ready flowing wound on his nose, were not disapand the drums pointed, attendwas discovered rolling, the exing dozens of citement and cases, among expectation them a pony, hang unmistakably in the air, who although blind in one eye, as man, woman and beast wait lame and with a bloody wound impatiently to begin their week- on his nose, was discovered long round trip, taking them pulling five children in cart. The through the wild, Andalucian pony, along with three other terrain to the object of their de- horses, who were also covvotion, the Virgin of Rocio. ered in infected wounds, were Welcome to the world of the being hired out illegally on an Romeria, or pilgrimage, a far hourly basis by a man who is cry from the sexless sterility of now under investigation by the the catholic religious festivals I Guardia Civil. The animals have was forced to attend as a child. They take place in every village and town in Andalucia, but nowhere tops the drama and spectacle of the Romeria like ‘El Rocio’. The week-long festival that took place in the baking Andalucian heat this month, is where religion, fashion, flirting, booze and revelry join together in a heady mix that guarantees a week of sore feet and hangovers. But it’s that very combination of intense Andalucian sun, long days crossing the parched earth and even longer nights of intense partying, that each year results in a darker, less folkloric side to El Rocio. The equine collateral damage is, quite frankly, horrendous with horses dropping dead midjourney from exhaustion and others dying at El Rocio itself from starvation, lack of water and colic. And this year as the hermandades (brotherhoods) set out slightly later than usual in the second week of June, the unforgiving heat pushed the thermometers up to heat-stroke-

COLLATERAL DAMAGE: Riders in Sevilla and (inset) an animal casualty since been moved to the charity’s headquarters where they are receiving veterinary treatment. Each year without fail horses, mules and donkeys perish usually in their dozens - but the highest number of deaths was 25 in 2008, with 17 failing to make it back home last year. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, none were as a result of neglect or cruelty, and occurred rapidly, some dying in seconds. Animal charity Asanda begs to differ, compiling its own report by equine veterinary specialist Marta Gallego Torres, on the possible causes of death. It concluded that the most likely causes were indeed ‘lack of water, stress and extreme exertion’.

HORSE LOVER: Mary

www.theolivepress.es It went on to say that - contrary to the official verdict of a swift end – most died an ‘agonizing and painfully slow death’. But why do these avoidable casualties continue to happen? It would seem that among the more knowledgeable riders making the pilgrimage to El Rocio, there’s also a less-experienced bunch riding rented animals, with very little common sense or even interest in treating their mounts as anything other than disposable modes of transport. In other cases horses that are barely exercised all year are pulled out of their field, with no level of fitness and expected to last the six-day return journey. It’s hardly a surprise then that some fall by the wayside. As humans we wouldn’t expect someone to run a marathon with no training, in Saharan temperatures, with little water, without expecting some fatalities. But what to do? Different organisations are trying to take proactive steps to promote responsible animal welfare during the pilgrimage, such as handing out leaflets and providing volunteer vets on site. The official Plan Romero 2009 guidelines for horses encourage riders to ‘be conscious that your horse is a living being and not a machine…. And to respect and treat it like the friend that it is’. For most animal lovers this would seem like rather obvious advice, but the fact that since its publication four years ago, 83 deaths have occurred, suggests the touching sentiment has fallen on deaf ears. As well as these guidelines, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fishing

FEATURE

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

El Rocio: The facts lThere is usually a big baby boom nine months after El Rocio that has been traced to extra-marital affairs during the wine-soaked festivities of the pilgrimage lThe tradition started when a hunter from the village of Villamanrique discovered a statue of the Virgin Mary in a tree trunk during the 13th century lBy the 19th century, pilgrims were making the journey from all over Huelva and Cadiz to see the statue’s shrine, a trip that took around four days lToday’s pilgrims still use several of the original routes, avoiding main roads for the most part lOnce the statue of the Virgin is brought out, the different monk brotherhoods (or hermandades) who have made the journey wrestle over who will carry her to the next chapel

TRAIL OF TEARS: The victims of the El Rocio trek and the Environment provides an official veterinary presence as part of its ‘Operacion Romero’. But Asanda’s report calls for many more vets both at El Rocio and on the pilgrimage route itself, and for owners to immediately call on their assistance as soon as an animal shows any sign of physical distress. However this does not look likely to happen soon, and a general lack of interest in these statistics by the powers that be would suggest these animal

deaths are not considered worthy of prosecution. In Spain abandonment and cruelty to animals is punishable law with potential fines of up to €60,000 and prison sentences between three months and one year. But the regular fatalities during this religious festival are rarely punished, mainly because proving they are not a result of natural causes and are in fact directly related to abuse and neglect is extremely difficult.

My hope lies in the actions of the incensed few, such as the volunteers from el Refugio Burrito, whose horrific images have brought more attention to the flagrant lack of concern in some quarters for the animals present at El Rocio. This may in turn have a trickle down effect on those ordinary people attending the festival in their hundreds of thousands, and who might just perhaps take their own action and report any future incidences of cruelty and neglect to the authorities. But the real change must come in the mentality of those remaining few who view horses, mules and oxen as little more than expendable modes of transport. Maybe, just maybe, fewer will die as a result. If you would like to make a donation to El Refugio Burrito please visit their website: http://www.elrefugiodelburrito.com/en

lMany of those making the journey dress up in traditional Andalucian attire, broad-brimmed hats for the men and women don authentic flamenco dresses lThere are even those who go the old-fashioned way: on horseback and in elaborately decorated wagons pulled by oxen lLess-adventurous travelers use big white caravans – complete with air conditioning and running water – that are pulled by 4X4s that can manage the several river crossings that are part of the journey lUnfortunately, the horses involved in the pilgrimage face the risk of death during the strenuous journey. The highest death toll recorded was 25 horses in 2008 lThe pilgrimage happens the weekend before Pentecost Monday every year, normally early June

TRADITION: Pilgrims wear flamenco dresses and hats

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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NEWS

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

News IN BRIEF Black flag beaches OVER 30 beaches in Malaga province have received a ‘black flag’ from environmentalist group Ecologists in Action, an indicator of poor environmental practices.

Gay royals KING Felipe VI and Queen Letizia will meet the Fundacion Triangulo - an LGBT group - in the first official meeting between Spanish royalty and gay activists.

UP IN FLAMES: a picturesque wooden hut sacrificed to San Juan on Casares beach

uperman saves the day By Carey Camel

SUPERMAN: Steve

AN expat became a true local hero when he put out a restaurant fire… in a Superman shirt. Sabinillas resident Steve Rogerson, 28, was on his way to work when he discovered the blaze consuming Cafe Centro in the heart of the town. Rogerson – owner of nearby Legends Bar – ran inside to grab a fire extinguisher and rushed to the rescue, clad in a T-shirt featuring the Superman emblem. After putting out the fire, he was also able to help the police with their ensuing investigation, having reportedly seen the likely culprit - a disgruntled

Passport issues PASSPORT offices in UK posts overseas have closed, leaving the home office with a backlog of over 53,000 applications.

Festival of fire

Firefighter becomes a true hero wearing the appropriate T-shirt

customer - fleeing the scene. “I’m just happy to have helped my neighbour… and I got a free fire extinguisher out of it,” referring to the gift that the local firefighters gave him after the fire, having used his own. As the residents of Sabinillas continue to congratulate their local Superman, friend and neighbour Anna Cockell explained that Rogerson is recognised as a neighbourhood hero for his selfless courage. “He’s a true Superman and we are all very proud of him,” she said.

A SPECTACULAR rainbow heralded the start of one of Spain’s best-loved festivals in Casares. San Juan – otherwise known as the ‘festival of fire’ – more than lived up to its nickname this week. Bonfires and fireworks lit up the midnight sky over the Costa del Sol, with massive fiestas filling the streets of the coast’s towns. Among the best vantage points were Sabinillas – with live music and a mini fairground – and Sonora restaurant, in Estepona, where the young and free-spirited treated themselves to a midnight dip and warmed themselves by the bonfire.

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the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

GREEN NEWS

BE HEARD

PROTESTERS will gather in Fuengirola this weekend to voice opposition to oil and gas prospecting on the coast. Spanish oil company Repsol is due to start exploration off the coast of Mijas in February 2015, but the plans have been met with outrage. A semi-submersible platform will be located just eight kilometres off the beach by the Faro de Calaburras lighthouse in Mijas Costa, 12km southwest of Fuengirola. To join the protest, meet on Saturday June 28 at 12pm, on Fuengirola’s paseo maritimo, next to the chiringuito Las Caracolas. RAISING THEIR VOICES: Saying NO to prospecting on the Costa

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A storm of protest over drilling plans SPAIN’S €7.5 billion oil drilling project in the Canary Islands has provoked uproar among environmental protestors and ecologists. Some 11,840 people have signed petitions opposing Repsol’s oil exploration plans, approved by the Spanish government. Protesters insist the project will potentially jeopardise the islands’ main source of income, as well as biodiversity. And it has emerged that safety recommendations put forward for the project have been submitted by the oil company itself.

“This is unheard of,” said Abel La Calle, an environmental lawyer who is advising Fuerteventura’s local government. “The government came up with recommendations for safety, but they’re not legal. We’ve never before seen that happen with a project that carries a risk of a catastrophic accident.” The government is supporting the project - delayed for 12 years by court challenges – in a bid to discover more fossil-fuels as Spain becomes increasingly dependent on imported oil and gas. There will initially be three exploratory wells dug.

Change of direction SPANISH flights could be rerouted to limit the environmental damage caused by vapour trails. The harmful trails – sometimes called contrails – are formed when planes fly through pockets of cold, moist air. They can be up to 150km in length and last for up to 24 hours and are said to add significantly to global warming. Now a ground-breaking study - by researchers at the University of Reading - has found the damage could be limited by re-routing flights around the pockets of air. According to the study, short

haul flights can increase their journey distance by up to 10 times the length of the contrail and still reduce the environmental damage. If a flight from the UK to Spain leaves a 20km-long contrail, for example, as long as the plane flies less than 200km extra to avoid it, the overall impact would be reduced. “You would think that you have to do some really huge distance to avoid these contrails,” said researcher Dr Emma Irvine. But because of the way the Earth curves you can actually have quite small extra distances added onto the flight to avoid some really large contrails.”

FISH FIGHT

Spain now set to commit €250,000 in global battle against pirate fishing SPAIN will commit €250,000 to the global fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU). The money is being spent on the creation of an international directory of fishing vessels to drive transparency and accountability in the world’s fishing industry. The donation is more than half the annual budget of the new register, giving Spanish authorities an important role in guiding the project. The central database will contain information on vessels, including name changes, flags and identification markings. “The Spanish government has given a massive boost to the project,” said Steve

By Imogen Calderwood

Trent, executive director of the Environmental Justice Foundation.

Chaos

“We now hope that other countries will step up and provide the additional financial support needed.” Pirate fishing vessels are causing chaos in the world’s fishing industry, as well as damaging fragile marine ecosystems and vulnerable species. Investigations have shown how illegal fishing vessels escape detection by changing their identities, and ‘flag-hopping’ between open vessel registries.

HARMFUL: Trails add to global warming

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the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

NEWS

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Rising total

AN expat has been forced to close her business after losing money to a corrupt former Estepona councillor. Beverley Bottomley insists she shut her bookshop Glitterati in Centro Diana, in part, after losing money to accountant Manuel Reina Contreras, who the Olive Press exposed in the last issue. The businesswoman claims that the closure of her 6-year-old business came after she had €1,000 taken from her bank account by the state due to Contreras failing to do his job. The fine came after he simply pocketed the €600 cash she had given him to pay her business rates. “He insisted I gave it to him in cash as the money needed to be paid urgently,” recalled Bottomley, who has lived on the coast for 13 years. “I trusted him, but it is clear none of the money I gave him was paid in, so I ended up getting an embargo on my account plus a fine.” She continued: “He speaks very good English,

New victim of Estepona’s corrupt accountant councillor comes forward which drew me to him in the first place. He was attracting a lot of English clients.” In 2008, Contreras was arrested alongside former Estepona mayor Antonio Barrientos, in a complex web of corruption involving bribery and money-laundering. The former finance minister at Estepona town hall was one of five people remanded in custody in the Astapa case.

Mistakes

Bottomley still cannot believe how easily he was able to set up a business so soon after getting out of prison on bail. “How could he have been allowed to set up as an accountant and offer people financial advice?” When questioned by the Olive Press last week, Contreras admitted: “The only thing I have to say is that I have A FRAUD investigation has been launched over the passmade mistakes. I have a lot ing of a huge €30 million construction project in Estepona. of problems and my priority Allegations of corruption and improper zoning at the PP now is to solve them.” run town hall are being investigated over the ‘Grand Boulevard’ project. They come after the PSOE opposition party blew the whistle on the scheme, which has gone over the maximum construction limit by 15%. The project, which will see the construction of a 17-storey hotel that would dominate the town, is due to begin imminently. Francisco Conejo, of the PSOE, said: “For too long we have been trying to get clarification from them, but our efforts have been met with silence. “We can’t ignore this situation any longer, as we already fear the PP is not defending the interests of the town.” BUSTED: Contreras

Corruption investigation over Estepona shopping centre

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the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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AXARQUIA NEWS

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Three years for Competa killing A SPANIARD, who threw British man Stephen Mallon to his death in Competa in 2009, has been sentenced to three years in prison. Jose Jimenez Martin, 28, was convicted of manslaughter sparing him a 15-year sentence for murder. Mallon, 49, died after being beaten and pushed off a four-metre high ledge by a group of up to 40 men in a fight. Jimenez has also been ordered to pay €120,000 to Mallon’s widow, and €90,000 to each of his three children.

Donkey D-Day

THE livelihoods of hundreds of donkeys are in danger, after the closure of a popular sanctuary in the Axarquia. In a move which will shock and sadden many, the Nerja Donkey Sanctuary is to close at the end of this month. The donkeys will be separated and most of them carted off to new homes. However, several are still without a home to move into with just a week to go, while other animals such as pigs, a horse, cats and dogs face an uncertain future. The sanctuary has been operating since 2004, and popular with visitors and resiSHUT: Donkey sanctuary dents alike.

Auntie in town By Joe Chivers

THE BBC is broadcasting a three-hour show live from Almunecar this week to commemorate one of Britain’s most popular writers. To mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Cider With Rosie author Laurie Lee, BBC Radio Gloucestershire will be broadcasting their mid-

Police attack A SPANIARD has been arrested after he pulled out a knife and metal bar to threaten a couple and their disabled son in Velez Malaga. When the local police arrived on the scene, the man threatened to kill all three of them if the police did not leave. The police called for reinforcements, and after they arrived, the man allegedly tried to attack them, and broke the glass on a door with the metal bar before being subdued. After being arrested, the man was taken for a medical examination, during which he produced a small knife from his mouth and intended to cut his own throat. Luckily the knife was snatched away.

Nerja nightclub reopens after temporary closure

THE popular Nerja nightclub Jimmy’s has reopened following its closure in April by Nerja council for violating noise regulations. The nightclub had been just six decibels over the legal noise limit.

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

It has twice been awarded a Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence, in 2013 and 2014, although it currently lacks the necessary licences to remain open. A spokesman for the sanctuary told the Olive Press that the cost of finding a new location and getting a licence would cost an estimated €10,000, beyond the budget of the small volunteer-run organisation. Harriet Horne, the owner of the sanctuary, described the decision as ‘a very emotional choice’ and thanked all the supporters. “We would not have lasted as long as we have without this support and many animals have benefited as a result,” she added. The sanctuary still requires donations to pay off any debts and to ensure a smooth last few days. To donate or offer an animal a home, visit www.nerjadonkeysanctuary.com or email harriet@donkeyaid.com

BBC filming live from Almunecar to mark centenary of UK writer Laurie Lee’s birth morning show from the town on June 26. Almunecar was the final destination of his epic trek from his childhood home of Slad, Gloucestershire, as chronicled in his book As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning.

Inspired

To celebrate the adventure, journalist Chris Baxter has recreated Laurie’s walk from Slad to Southampton from June 23-25, before coming to the Axarquia. “Our re-creation of parts of his walk will compare life then and now,” he explained. “When we reach Spain we’ll reflect the commemorations in Almunecar and meet the people who knew him and were inspired by him.” The show can be heard on June 26 from 10am to 1pm.

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the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

News IN BRIEF World cup ref GIBRALTAR’S Nathan Stagno has umpired the Hockey World Cup final between Australia and the Netherlands at The Hague.

GIBRALTAR NEWS

Coronation to mark new era?

Top port CARNIVAL UK, cruise operator of P&O Cruises and Cunard, has announced that Gibraltar will be the third most visited port of call for 2015 after Southampton and Lisbon.

Calentita success THIS year’s Calentita gastronomy festival was a great success. Guests enjoyed great food and wine, as well music, dancing and a fireworks display. NEW HOPE: King Felipe

ON the Rock July 1

CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo is hopeful that a change of monarch in Spain will herald a new era of respect between the two nations. He offered a hand of friendship to the new King Felipe VI during a speech to the UN in New York last week. “This new Head of State must know that we seek only peace, understanding and cooperation. “Let us never fall for the negative, destructive force of futile and purile nationalism which feeds no-one but the dinosaurs who prefer to re-run the long lost battles of yesterday.”

The Olive Press guide to What’s On in Gibraltar over the next two weeks

The Gibraltar National Choir

The Rock Tai Chi Club. Kings Bastion Leisure Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, 7.30pm All ages welcome. For further information, Centre, 6.30pm For further information, Tel: 20078714 mobile: 54831000 Email: rocktaichi@trainingtm.net

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The Calpe Band For musicians of brass/woodwind instruments of all standards and ages 35a Town Range (behind the Senior Citizens Club), 7pm For further information Tel: 54017070 Email: the calpebnd@gmail.com

Jazz Nights

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Americans to make Rock stop GIBRALTAR has been included in the which will be introducing a new small 2015 schedule of American cruise ship tour called Classic Cities & Moorcompany Grand Circle Cruise Line, ish Traditions of Iberia & Morocco.

Wave of optimism

Wave energy - along with electric cars and gas - is being considered to further Gib’s carbon neutral ambitions By Giles Brown

WAVE energy is being considered as a means to help make Gibraltar carbon neutral. The government has also introduced more electric vehicles to its official fleet, including a Tesla for the chief minister. The announcement was made as Chief Minister Fabian Picardo visited the US to discuss trading and business links with the country. During his visit Picardo and his deputy Dr Joseph Garcia met with President Obama’s environmental team, as well as other key figures from Congress. During a visit to the White House, the potential for US technology to help install wave projects in Gibraltar was discussed.

ACROSS: Picardo and Garcia The first minister later told a press conference that the Rock was taking steps towards carbon neutrality; including the change of the main power generation fuel from diesel to gas. This will dramatically reduce emissions. Picardo also explained how commercial relationships with US companies had already resulted in his official car now being the Americanmade Tesla car and how, additionally, the government’s motorised fleet now includes a number of other hybrid veON THE BALL: Costa hicles. the port and commercial This is the second time this affairs together with a seyear that meetings have lection of photographs, been held with Democratic highlighting the and Republican Congresslatest news and developmen and is part of a strategy which is designed to protect ments in each area of rethe long term interests of Gisponsibility. braltar.

Voice of Costa TOURISM boss Neil Costa is to be giving regular podcasts on a new website. The Minister for Tourism, Commercial affairs, Public Transport and the Port will be giving updates on the beaches, the importance of tourism, the economy and other subjects during his posts on the website www.ministryoftransport. gov.gi. The site contains illustrated sections on tourism, the literary festival, airlines,

Pop this Yarrunga madness! Field www.theolivepress.es

GIBRALTAR NEWS

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

SPECIAL RESERVE

Environmentalists slam the ‘highly irresponsible’ release of 30,000 balloons from the Rock on National Day ENVIRONMENTALISTS are warning that the release of thousands of balloons - a traditional highlight of Gibraltar National Day - is posing a grave risk to wildlife. The group Blue Planet Society insist the annual release of 30,000 balloons on September 10 is making a mockery of the government’s current drive to be sustainable (see story left). It claims that the plastic inflatables end up in the Straits, endangering marine wildlife and birds. “Littering apart, it is a highly irresponsible act of environmental vandalism,” insisted a spokesman. Often mistaken for food (much like plastic bags), once eaten, the balloons can block the digestive tract and cause a long and painful death by starvation.

DESTRUCTIVE: The traditional release of balloons The group adds that the huge numbers of birds. Straits are the worst place to “Dolphins, whales, turtles release the balloons in the and birds have all been killed Med, as they get into the vital by balloons when they misnutrient-rich current that is take balloons for food,” said a typical of the area. spokesman for the group. In addition, the 14km gap be- The group has now set up a tween Europe and Africa is an Facebook page petition callimportant migration route for ing for the celebration to be stopped, with the government admitting it is now looking at Journalist honoured in Gibraltar ways to tackle the issue. They have already introduced GIBRALTAR’S Chief Minister Fabian new biodegradable balloons in a Picardo has honoured journalist David measure to soften the problem. Eade in a UN speech. Minister for environment Dr Picardo dedicated his recent address in John Cortes said: “BiodeNew York on ‘decolonisation’ to him. gradable balloons are much One of Gibraltar’s most respected Britmore environmentally friendish journalists, David Eade died in La ly. The mere fact that they last Linea aged 65, on June 14, after settling much less time means that in Spain more than 20 years ago. they can create problems for An active member of the Labour Party, wildlife for less time.” David also wrote for a number of Spanish However, he admitted: “It national, regional and local publications. is true that during the time His Discover Cadiz and Discover Gib before they degrade they can websites attracted more than five million still have an impact, and the visitors – at 105,000 a month, while his Department of the EnvironGibraltar Viewpoint column was the lon- HONOURED: ment is looking at options for gest running on the Rock, having started the future that will reduce the David Eade in 1993 in The Entertainer. impact even more.”

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LETTERS

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

POTTED POINTERS ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 83.46% full Same week last year: 91.93% Same week in 2003: 63.61% AIRPORTS Gibraltar 00350 22073026 Granada-Jaen 958 245 200 Jerez - 956 150 000 Malaga - 952 048 844* *For English press 9 Sevilla - 954 449 000 EMERGENCIES Police 091 Guardia Civil 062 Medical service 061 Fire 080 EURO EXCHANGE RATES 1 euro is worth 1.36 American Dollars 0.80 British Pounds 1.46 Canadian Dollars 7.45 Danish Kroner 10.55 H Kong Dollars 8.30 Norwegian Kroner 1.70 Singapore Dollars

Broadband bandits Dear OP, I APPLAUD the commitment of the Olive Press to campaigning for better services in Spain and write to bring to your attention the appalling service of Movistar. Incompetent and with an incredible lack of communication and professionalism, they continue to make our lives a misery after months without broadband connection. There is no way of communicating with Movistar other than 1002 or 1004 and both numbers churn out the response ‘we are working on it’. Every time we call they issue a new incident number and the circus goes on. I would appreciate your thoughts on how I might receive the level of service, professionalism and competence you would expect from a company of such importance to the expatriate community. I am sure we are not alone in experiencing such poor service. Mark Williams, Coin

So mindless LUX Mundi Ecumenical Centre in Calle Nueva, Fuengirola has been attacked by vandals. Locks on the Donations Boutique for the needy and door number seven – where homeless people are fed

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RUNWAY RIDDLE

the beach make the news? (Marbs Ahoy, Issue 189). The Only Way is Essex is everything that is wrong with modern British society; shallow, celebrity-obsessed and frankly depressing. And the fact they are acting as sugar-coated, shrinkwrapped ambassadors overseas is a travesty. The only way is home, please. And don’t come back. The only thing I think when I see this ‘news’ is that I really, really, don’t want to be going back to East London any time soon. James Harper, Elviria

IMPUNITY: Goldman owes millions

I HAVE made 17 return trips through Malaga airport (above) during the past 18 months and never been in a plane which used the second runway. I have asked three separate aircrews if they have landed or departed from the second runway. None of them had done so.

twice a week – were vandalised, leaving the doors unable to be opened. The locks had to be completely replaced. We have learned that an Indian hairdresser close by suffered the same vandalism, sadly adding the possibility of a racially-motivated act, as we were the only premises targeted. We ask Olive Press readers to contact us or the police if they saw any suspicious behaviour on May 29. Even if the person appeared disabled. Lux Mundi, Fuengirola

Cat fight IN response to Michele Chown’s letter Deadly cruel for cats (Issue 188), while no humane person can condone the poisoning of cats, is it not also against the law to feed feral cats? If ‘cat-lovers’ really want to be helpful, adopt them and feed them in your own home – not outside other people’s dwellings. Our community suffers from a constant plague of stray cats. They kill birds and other wildlife and defecate in the garden/pool area where young children play. This irresponsible feeding of cats is not the behaviour of responsible pet-lovers. I would appeal to these ‘catlovers’ to be more considerate of others and the consequences of their actions and to adopt a less ‘holier than thou’ attitude. I Armstrong, Torremolinos

Rabbiting on WHILE appalled at the conditions the rabbits you reported on are kept in (Bunny boilers, Issue 189), I am surprised at an animal rights group not knowing that rabbits normally eat their own faeces. They need to do this in order to get all the nutrients from their vegetarian diet. They also excrete waste pellets.

If the two runways are used in a coordinated fashion I would not have expected this result. Does anybody have any idea on what usage the second runway is getting?

If we ate only enough meat for our nutritional needs then we would not need factory farms and animals destined for our tables could live a happy, healthy life first. Helena McGinty, Alhaurin el Grande

‘Quaint’ foolish I AGREE with Belinda Beckett, (Sevilla, not on my Beckett list!, Issue 189). Not only is it patronising to imagine that one can ‘do’ Spain (and sometimes Europe!) in a week or less, it also shows the idea prevalent among Americans that our ‘quaint’ countries can be treated like theme parks. It also means that you will definitely miss most of the good bits. My cousin and his wife visited Spain for a three-week holiday and planned their itinerary so that they would have a decent amount of time in each place. It’s the only way to do it. And their shoes had been worn very well before departure... What a mad idea to wear brand-new shoes on holiday! Kim Jelsdon, Campo de Gibraltar

Peter Davies, Torrequebrada

Shut-up shop MY wife and I drove all the way from Alhaurin to La Canada, Marbella, to do a spot of shopping only to find the whole complex closed! Another annoying local holiday. We weren’t the only ones to be caught out – there were dozens with shopping funds burning a hole in their pockets. What defies belief is how a nation like Spain can be in such dire straits financially – especially when it’s full of such ‘enterprising’ traders with such a ‘high business acumen’... A J Harvey, Alhaurin el Grande

On your way SINCE when did a group of young adults from Essex wearing ridiculous swimwear and posing topless on

(ED: You best avoid the food and drink pages this issue, James)

King Brad OTHER than serve as actors for staged ceremonial or publicity events – what does the monarchy really do today to help guide the country? (Spain’s King Juan Carlos abdicates, OP Online). Considering all of the housing and living expenses costs are paid by taxpayers, you could hire Antonio Banderas, Brad Pitt, Bardem, Clooney and Penelope Cruz et al for the same events. They would be far less expensive for taxpayers! As in several countries, the monarchy has become dysfunctional, expensive and unnecessary. Joseph Gates, Nerja

On-air Ed THANK you so much Olive Press for your support of our new radio show Mi Marbella – we were very excited to have OP Editor Jon Clarke on the air. Please keep on tuning in!. Nicole King, Radio Marbella

Rip-off Reina goes global THANK you so much for covering our story (Number Crunched, issue 189) and for making it front page news. I hope it brings to light some other poor souls who have been ripped off by Manuel Reina. I posted the story on Facebook and it has already gone global.

WIN WIN WIN 2 pairs of tickets for Pink Floyd concert in exclusive Olive Press offer - Page 17

olive press NUMBER CRUNCHED The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

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EXCLUSIVE By Imogen Calderwood

A BRITISH couple claim their accountant stole €22,000 from them after forging court documents. Expats Mike and Jean Lett insist that the disgraced Estepona councillor took the money on a number of occasions and illegally reinvested it in his own name. The couple, who run furniture business Jean’s Emporium in Estepona, had used Manuel Reina Contreras for eight years for their business. They have denounced the former PES councillor - who is also being investigated over the multimillion euro Astapa corruption scandal - and their case is now going through the courts. “We cannot believe this man could get away with this. He saw a way of getting quick

June 11 - June 25 2014

British couple call in the police after their accountant runs off with €22,000

vide us with an invoice which he said was from the court.” However, they started to suspect Contreras and decided to get their lawyer to look into the situation. “It was at that point we found out that all was not as it seemed and the documentation supposedly from the courthouse was forged.” It turned out it was not the first time Contreras had been on the wrong side of the law.

Hats off to Laurie Lee

Front page news - OP 189 Mike Lett, Estepona TWO thirds of Spaniards want a vote on whether the country should scrap its monarchy. According to a survey in El Pais, 62% of Spanish people want a referendum on becoming a republic, with 34% against it. It comes after a series of large protests around the country called for an end to the monarchy after the king announced he is abdicating in favour of son Felipe later this month.

Majority

Despite broad support for a referendum, the poll revealed however, that only a minority of Spaniards would in fact prefer a republican form of government. Nearly half of respondents said that if asked, they would still support a monarchy headed by Felipe VI, while 36% said they would demand a return to a republic. Moreover, the majority of residents applauded King Juan Carlos’ decision to abdicate. The popularity rating of the monarchy is said to have gone up from 49% to 56% since the abdication was announced two weeks ago, according to a poll in El Mundo. Of those questioned 73% said Felipe would make a good king.

100 years since birth of seminal writer and lover of Spain See Pages 24 - 25

Bribery

RIPPED OFF: The Letts and (right) Contreras arrested money and he took it,” Mr Lett, 72, told the Olive Press. The Letts - who have lived in Spain for 28 years - had given the money to Contreras to prevent a court from repossessing a hotel they owned in San Roque. The accountant had told them

TAKING ON THE WORLD

that Estepona court needed the money if they were to prevent a foreclosure on the building that they were in the process of selling. However, as it later emerged, the court had never solicited the money at all and both requests and receipts from a judge were allegedly forged. “This is where our real problems started,” said Mrs Lett, 68, from Newquay. “One time Contreras even drove me to the bank to withdraw the money, because he said if it wasn’t paid into the court that day everything would be null and void. “Each time we would pay the ‘rent’ money to him, he would pro-

In June 2008, he was arrested alongside Estepona mayor Antonio Barrientos, in a complex web of corruption involving fraudulent land rezoning, bribery and moneylaundering. The former Councillor for the Economy at Estepona town hall was one of five people remanded in custody in the Astapa case. Now, despite numerous requests for the return of their money, the Letts haven’t seen a penny and the hotel has been repossessed. When contacted by the Olive Press, Contreras said this week: “The only thing I have to say is that I have made mistakes. I have a lot of problems and my priority now is to solve them. “I feel bad about what I have done to these good people, and I only hope I can pay them back.”

Flamenco star in town Olive Press probes Jaoquin Cortes on Naomi and more See Page 20

Letters should be emailed to letters@theolivepress.es. The writer’s name and address should be provided. Opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor. Continued on Page 4

Ronda hotel voted best in Spain while Gibraltar selects its candidate for next Miss World

See Pages 15 and 42

The Bitch is back! Joan Collins is getting big in Benidorm, believe it or not See Page 3

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the olive press - June 25 - July 9 201419 19

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June 25 - July 9 2014

Picasso’s hidden secret is revealed ART experts have discovered a hidden painting beneath one of Pablo Picasso’s first masterpieces, The Blue Room. Infrared imagery has revealed a man wearing a bow-tie, resting his head on his hand and wearing three rings. Curators at the Phillips Collection in Washington are now undertaking new research in order to find who this mystery man is. Malaga-born Picasso painted The Blue Room while living in Paris in 1901. Experts have long suspected there might be something lurking under the surface, and in the 1990s an x-ray first revealed a fuzzy image. Scientists have been trying to piece together the

clearest possible image of the hidden man ever since, using technological advances. “It’s one of those moments that really makes what you do special,” said Patricia Favero, the conservator who recently achieved the best image yet of the man’s face. “The second reaction was, ‘well, who is it?’ We’re still working on answering that question.” Experts believe Picasso hurriedly painted over the work in order to get his ideas down on canvas, as he could not afford to keep starting new ones.

Treasure trove Spanish hoard worth hundreds of millions finally displayed after five year legal battle

A CONTROVERSIAL hoard of dazzling treasure has finally gone on display in a massive victory for the Spanish government. It comes after the country won a five-year court battle against American treasurehunting company Odyssey over ownership of the haul, estimated to be worth nearly €400 million. The 8,000 coins on display are part of a much larger trove, found by Odyssey aboard a Spanish frigate - the Nuestra Senora de las MerSPECIAL: Manu hasn’t performed in Andalucia for seven years

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REVEALED: Hidden man behind The Blue Room

By Imogen Calderwood

HOMECOMING: The coins secreted out of Spain

cedes. The ship was sunk by the British navy in 1804 off the coast of Cadiz. Despite an international ban, the company illegally took their discovery – a trove weighing 17 tons – back to the United States. In a cloak and dagger operation the team managed to take the treasure onto a flight out of Gibraltar late at night five years ago. But the Spanish government recognised the coins being shown off in the US media

and brought legal action against Odyssey to have the coins returned. The victory is a groundbreaking step in the fight against companies like Odyssey, which scour the world’s ocean floors in search of treasure. “This is an unprecedented international triumph against plundering and the illegal traffic in cultural heritage,” said Jose Maria Massalle, Spain’s secretary of state for culture.

SPANISH singer Manu Chao will grace the Andalucian scene after seven years away next month. Chao is is known for his classic guitar sound, clever lyrics, and eclectic musical influences – everything from ska to French chanson to salsa. The Spanish-born, French-raised musician will be joined on stage by Granada-based rock band Sonido Vegetal at the concert on July 20 in Vicar, Almeria. Manu Chao’s iconic vocals will give concert-goers a night of high-energy music and more than a little dancing.

arbella. June 29,

Donkeys galloping in

Chao for now

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The exhibition, at ARQUA – the National Sub-Aquatic Archeology Museum in Cartagena, Murcia – focusses on Spain’s fight to recover the 580,000 coins.

HOTLY-TIPPED jazz band The New Orleans Swamp Donkeys Traditional Jass Band are heading for Spain. The six-piece band has sold out concerts across America, most recently at the New Orleans 2014 Jazz Festival and the Blue Note in New York City. They will play shows in Madrid and Barcelona and a slot at the Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival as part of their European tour. The Swamp Donkeys go back to the roots of jazz, putting a modern spin on traditional New Orleans jazz music, known as ‘jass’. Think sousaphones instead of upright basses, and a banjo that chinks along while the brass section improvises freestyle.

9pm. Flamenco night at Tikitano Beach. €10 entry, with three-course set menu at €29 or a la carte available. Reservations recommended. Visit tikitano. com, or call 952 798 449.

anilva. July 6, 6pm. Summer fete at Villa Matilde garden park in Sabinillas. An evening of music, art, food and craft stalls, with face painting and a bar. Call Amanda Partington on 618 943 630.

ijas. July 18-22, 11pm

every night. The 28th annual Theatre Festival, at the Miguel Gonzalez Berral auditorium. Visit www.mijas. es. Tickets from Casa Museo in Mijas - call 952 590 380; from Casa de la Cultura in Las Lagunas - call 952 586 926; or the Cultural and Sports Centre in La Cala call 952 587 750.

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20 20the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

www.theolivepress.es June 11 - June 25 2014

The Olive Press sent Imogen Calderwood (left) to experience total cultural immersion at Pueblo Espanol… and cut ham, dress up and try on some ridiculous wigs!

N a scale of one to hor- LISH ALLOWED. rifying, arriving late to a The idea is to return students room full of strangers of Pueblo Espanol to childand being asked to in- hood. With the theory running troduce yourself in a language that we have all successfully you don’t speak is pretty high learned a language at some up there. point in our lives, and for the Thankfully Pueblo Espanol is a majority of us this was when forgiving place - after all, I had we were very small. just had an eight hour drive up We pick up language instincthere - and so tively from I was allowed hearing othto sit quietly ers speak it, ‘Total immersion’ at the back from being and enjoy the is the name of the surrounded gentle hum by it conof incompregame, and there is stantly, and hensible chatslowly beone rule and one ter going on ginning to around me. understand rule only For the first what’s going half an hour, on around anyway. us. Look at Tucked away in the idyllic sur- how well kids adapt to Spanish roundings of the Salamanca when their parents move them mountains, in the remote Cas- here from the UK. tilla y Leon village of La Alber- Pueblo Espanol works on the ca, this is certainly a Spanish same principle. If we spend school with a big difference. enough time awkwardly con‘Total immersion’ is the name structing sentences from the of the game, and there is one few words we do know, and lisrule and one rule only: NO ENG- tening to the beautifully gram-

A fantastic hotel, but...

NO ENGLISH ALLOWED

matically-accurate speech of others, we will eventually learn. And certainly that was my experience. But for most of the other students on my course – who came from as far and wide as Australia, Canada and Benalmadena – this was also an

opportunity to relax and absorb the fresh air and make leaps and bounds towards fluency. Pueblo Espanol is a real cultural and linguistic retreat. Hours shut away in cramped classrooms pouring over grammar books belong to another world.

Here it’s about speech, for anything up to 15 hours a day. Meals and group outings, of which there are many, including jamon cutting, wine tastings and visits to dance schools, are all conducted in Spanish. The two course leaders –

Sabela and Marcos – are assisted by between 10 and 15 Spanish volunteers – true masters of patience and resilience. The obvious advantage of this system is that you actually talk Spanish to Spaniards for an enormous portion of your time. I found that a few of the particularly patient volunteers singled me out as definitely needing more help than the average student and took me under their wings – and for that I’m extremely grateful. There are a huge variety of different activities scheduled throughout the day, all of which help you learn an incredible amount in a week, without really realising it. The day begins as it should, with the most important meal: desayuno. It’s quite a shock to the system to have to begin the

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21 June 25 - July 9 2014

LA ALBERCA: Cofradia procession and (below) the main square Spanish-speaking day before you’ve really woken up. When your head’s still a bit fuzzy from a good night’s sleep in the surprisingly luxurious hotel rooms, and before you’ve got your paws on a good cup of coffee. But this is how the Spanish do it, so this is how the Spanish estudiantes do it too. After breakfast come the activities. These can be anything from tu a tu – one on one conversations – to teleconferencias – group phone calls involving role play and interview skills. And the teleconferencia scethinking in any language. And it narios are very creative. I was a journalist (the Pueblo does feel very Spanish to retire to Espanol team try to base them your cool and comfortable bedloosely on real life) in charge of room for a quick afternoon kip. publicity for an American musi- But not for long. The afternoon cian – another of the students is chock-a-block with more ac– who was making the leap tivities, this time of a more groupacross the Atlantic and reach- bonding variety – group quizzes, ing out to the Spanish market. and creative challenges that What’s interesting about role- tended to descend into dressing play scenarios is that you’re up and ridiculous wigs. trying so hard to get into the There are trips out in to La Alpart you’re playing, the lan- berca itself. One day sees a guage doesn’t visit to a museo seem so much casa, to see of a struggle. what the tradiIt is a wonderful It’s as though tional Castilla y when you’re opportunity to Leon farm house not hung up on would be like. language and meet people from Another, a jamon accurate gram- all over the world m a s t e r c l a s s , mar, everything complete with flows a lot cheese, bread, more smoothly. wine and an opportunity to cut So in an average Pueblo Es- your own – although it’s unpanol day, the four hours after likely to be as wafer thin as the breakfast are filled with these professional’s, judging by my sorts of mind-bending (or relax- group’s efforts. ing depending on how advanced And when you thought you your Spanish is) activities. couldn’t take any more, there’s And then comes lunch. Food is more food in the form of cena. a very serious part of Pueblo I’m firmly of the opinion that the Espanol, not only because ev- best aspect of Pueblo Espanol erything is sumptuous, and is mealtimes. And not just bevery typically Spanish, but also cause everything is delicious. because there’s an incredible Spending your entire day amount of it. speaking Spanish makes you Every day lunch was a three realise that it’s when you’re course affair, with coffee and fruit slightly distracted, when you’re for afters. In fact by the fourth day not 100% in language-learning a lot of people were begging for mode - for example during smaller portions or for solo un en- meal times - that you actually salada pequena, because it was learn the most. all proving just too much. You find yourself chatting to yourAfter lunch it’s time for a siesta, self in Spanish at strange moof course. With that much food ments, like when you’re showerweighing you down it would be ing or trying to figure out if you renigh on impossible to do much

ESTUDIATES: But for once no silly wigs in sight

ally can cope with extra pudding. Some of the lucky and more linguistically-adept students even started to report dreaming in Spanish – a sure sign of progress. “You see people having ups and downs during the week. But that’s what it takes to change the way we see and interact with things around us,” said Brian Bolles, the program manager. “The only way to really break the way you view language is by jumping in at the deep-end.” He makes a good point. The necessity of fully devoting yourself to speaking, thinking and dreaming Spanish is the reason that the course is in general only for intermediate speakers and above. Brian points out that the general rule is that if you can use all three tenses – past, present and future – in conversation, then Pueblo Espanol is right for you, and over the course of the week you will progress. But it’s by no means easy. Those that get the most out of it are, of course, those that put the most in. There are plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself: from getting up in front of everybody to deliver the dreaded presentacion (I couldn’t dodge it forever!); to performing in a bit of Spanish theatre or a song from your country for everybody in an after-dinner sing-along. It’s not all compulsory but you’ll get a lot more out of the school if you play along. And the feeling you get after you challenge yourself like that and come out the other side really does make it worth it. I highly recommend it. Not just because of the astounding progress you can make with a language in just a week, but because it’s a wonderful opportunity to meet people from all over the world, eat great food, learn Spanish dances and sing Spanish songs. If you think learning Spanish is all about learning grammar by rote, or cramming for spelling tests, Pueblo Espanol makes you think again.

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

22 22 the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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EXCLUSIVE: Olive Press reporter Tom Powell joins the successful world record attempt to put Estepona and its dancing queens on the map

RECORD BREAKERS: 1,800 people dance Sevillanas along with the Harrises (above)

Men and women of all ages, shapes and sizes twisted and twirled in time with the music, while flamenco instructors Antonio Trujillo and Maria Vega led the way on the stage. Meanwhile, I tried desperately to copy those around me and to not kick too many people with misplaced steps. But it turned out I wasn’t the only foreigner in this unequivocally Spanish affair. Estepona expat Evelyn Harris, owner of Harris Insurance, learned to dance Sevillanas with her husband Alan when they first moved here in 1986. “I’ve always enjoyed being able to participate in the fun at ferias,” she said. have been more prepared. With the sun baking and the time But my apprehension was unfound- “Of course we never expected back The number to beat was 1,560, when ticking away, I began to wonder if ed, as more than 1,800 energetic then that we would earn a place in the Cordoba snatched the record off its this little town could genuinely com- Esteponeros danced their way into Guinness Book of World Records!” The English in me wasn’t entirely lost rival Sevilla in 2012. pete with the big boys. flamenco folklore. in the swirl and twirl of Sevillanas though, as I snuck silkily away before the record was announced in order to watch the evening’s World Cup match England versus Italy. Brian Johnston and Paul Clueit “I am pleased and surprised to Costa del Sol resident Andy The 5,000 people who stayed at the will both be treated to the psy- have won something at last, my Claridge and his Pink Floyd feria ground to celebrate the world chedelic rock band’s biggest luck has changed for the better tribute band will be previewing record were treated to a concert, firehits, original video productions thanks to the Olive Press,” said their 16-show European tour at works and free beer. Brian. and laser lighting. the Mijas Auditorium. But I was happier watching England lose to Italy, of course I was...well!?

Won Won Won... wish you were them

WO lucky Olive Press readers are getting ready to rock after winning tickets to the Pink Floyd tribute concert in Mijas.

June 25 - July 9 2014

Dancing into the history books

TWO weeks to learn to dance Sevillanas and break a Guinness World record? Always one for an adventure, I didn’t take much convincing. Estepona was hoping to christen its new feria ground with the largest ever group of people all dancing Sevillanas together. And it would not be my first attempt at a world record, as I took part in the planet’s biggest simultaneous cracker-pulling in Cardiff two Christmases ago. But a lone guiri, learning a traditional Spanish dance and strutting my stuff alongside Andalucian stalwarts was always going to be more of a challenge. I attended a couple of free classes at Estepona’s Pena Flamenco to learn the moves before meeting up with celebrity flamenco dancer Joaquin Cortes for some tips... so I could not

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the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

The Sabinillas Bookshop

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Jack Gaioni takes a rather unusual ride to an eccentric event centered around tweed in Madrid

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T has been described as a cross between a 19th century British costume party and a creative stage of the Tour-deFrance. It was certainly most curious, and attending the event were thousands of participants attired in Victorian-era clothing. Many wore waistcoats, ascots and smoked hooked pipes. Some even had the sideburns, beards and top hats typical of Charles Dickens-era London. The attending women (and there were many) wore petticoats, corsets, shawls and the quintessential 19th century bonnets. What was most bizarre, however, was that the participants were pedaling bicycles, many of which were classic vintage. Was this event part of a production for a British themed film? Was it some sort of English costume party? Were we actually somewhere in England? The answer to all the above is a resounding NO… the event took place this month in Madrid. Allow me to elaborate… known as The Tweed Ride, originally started in London in the early 1990s, the event has grown

Jack’s Corner exponentially to include cities like New York, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Moscow, Tokyo and Sydney. And not to be outdone, Madrid was this year hosting its very own fourth annual Tweed Ride Madrid. The idea is that attendees dress up in tweed as if they were living in 19th century London. They then pedal their bikes in a festive parade-like protocol. The fabric tweed is a central theme here because historically it has come to symbolise British outdoor fashion. In the notoriously damp British climate, which requires moisture resistance and durability, tweeds have long been fashionably worn for outdoor activities. Hunters, shooters and bicycle riders - especially those in the 19th century - have wholeheartedly embraced the fashion. The fabric is typically a

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weave of wool, cotton, rayon, silk or any combination therein. Tweed, with its unique tight weave in either a plain, twill or herringbone pattern, has remained synonymous with upper-class British country elegance. Tweed can be tastefully plain or with interesting colour patterns. Harris, Fender and Donegal tweeds, herringbone and hounds tooth, are all household words in British fashion nomenclature. The Tweed Ride is essentially a movement - a rapidly growing global movement - among cyclists to promote the use of the bicycle as a cheap, healthy ,ecological and fashionable mode of transport. This year’s Tweed Ride Madrid followed the route from Plaza Mayor to the Arganzuela district followed by a host of events in the Nave de Terneros. Other activities included pic-

TOP ‘TACHE: A creative Tour de France nics, swing dance lessons and tea-tastings. Awards were given for the ‘Best Tweed Rider’ and the ‘Best Classic Bicycle’. The ‘Best 19th century Moustache Contest‘ (natural or fake!) especially drew a lot of attention. The Tweed Ride Madrid could have stood alone as a concert, as there was no short supply of spirited musical groups. For those who appreciate vintage tweed clothing, classic bicycles or just a plain old good time, consider Tweed Ride Madrid 2015. For information, go to: www. tweedridemadrid.com

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All about

uadalhorce

Issue 190 www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 201425 25

alley

June 26 - July 9 2014

June 25 - July 9 2014

A breath of fresh air

The mountains, rivers, wildlife and greenery of the Guadalhorce Valley feel a million miles away from the Costa del Sol, writes Tom Powell

ICKING my way up a stony mountain ascent, swirling in butterflies, geckos and sun-loving flowers, I was suddenly smacked in the head. Not by a drunken tourist stumbling out of a bar, but by an enormous falling pine cone, from a towering tree above. It is hard to believe that this soaring region, on one side of the Guadalhorce valley, is just a 45 minute drive from the bustling Costa del Sol. I found myself in complete, awe-inspiring solitude on a morning’s stroll through the Sierra de las Nieves natural park, near Tolox. Bursting with flora and fauna, it is so refreshing to retreat up into this wild and verdant valley, where birdsong quickly replaces the noise of car engines. Continues on Page 26

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uadalhorce Valley

June 25- July 9 2014

SPECTACULAR: The Guadalhorce Valley backed by the Sierra de las Nieves mountains

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BLANKET: White towns of the valley, pictured here is Alora

Criss-crossed with streams, as well as modern and ancient acequias, or man-made water channels, it is said to be one of the most agriculturally rich areas in Spain. I began my love affair with the Guadalhorce valley in the small, white village of Tolox, af-

Along a 4km zigzagging mountain track, I could tell this place was a bit special ter a spectacular drive taking in Monda and Guaro. It is a charming place, where life is relaxed, bathing in the shadows of the towering mountains that provide its spectacular backdrop, like an old Andalucian woman sitting contentedly in the shade. At the entrance to the park is the Fuente Amargosa Health Spa, quietly attracting a steady stream of tourists with its ‘healing’ water, taken from the

mountains. And it is by passing this spa and heading further up the gravelly mountain track that I reached my lodging, Cerro de Hijar hotel. Along a 4km zig-zagging mountain track, I could tell this place was a bit special. Originally built by the Junta more than ten years ago, it had been typically left unused. That all changed when three

FROM BOYS TO MEN

EVERY boy wants to grow up to be a soldier and in Alhaurin el Grande it is no different. Here, a group of teenagers practise moves with their rifles in the hope of one day following in the footsteps of the Foreign Legion that marches through its streets at Easter time

young entrepreneurs – Guillermo, Martin and Eugenio – stepped in and created this tranquil, charming place, with an incredible restaurant serving wild and hearty mountain food. “Lots of people come here for the spa, but also for walking and exploring the beautiful surrounding area. The location is amazing,” explained Martin. Like similar hotel, Refugio de

Juanar, near Monda, it certainly provides the perfect base for exploring the nearby park, with a pool overlooking the valley to cool off in afterwards. It also boasts its very own spa, with that same healing water, known as ‘amargosa’ because of its bitter taste. Sierra de las Nieves is actually a hunting reserve, but also provides a wealth of tourism options for those eager to see

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 201427 27

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June 25- July 9 2014

Andalucia’s own ‘bread basket

BEACONS: The Castillo above Yunquera provides stunning views of the valley and (right) the Arab tower at Alora’s castle is incredibly well preserved what Spain has to offer besides beaches. Hiking, cycling, off-roading, watersports, horse-riding… you could spend weeks just exploring this park. The park spreads out right the way across to Ronda, with jagged snow-capped mountain peaks in winter - hence the name. Some parts are still scarred by the fires that ripped through the forests and plants in the early 1990s, leaving charred tree stumps and black twisted branches in their wake. The next morning, after a stroll, I headed across to another mountain village called Alozaina, which is surrounded by olive groves, orchards and fields. Stone arches mark the way into the charming centre, dotted

House martins and swallows dart overhead on narrow streets, abundant in life with tapas bars, coffee shops and traditional white-washed homes. Here the striking Santa Ana church dominates the skyline, complete with a courtyard serving up spectacular views towards the Sierra Prieta. My next stop, Yunquera, even higher along a mountain road towards Ronda and El Burgo, also oozed freshness. Full of house martins and swallows darting overhead on narrow streets and an abundance of life and colour missing from the coast. El Castillo sits about 500 metres above this town, one of the highest points in Malaga province, and stands boldly as its emblem. This ancient tower is believed to have been built by Arabs as a watchtower during wars. Nowadays, it has been refurbished as an information centre for the Sierra de las Nieves park. It has also been recognised as a site of historical heritage and cultural interest. The area around the town is home to numerous hiking routes and viewpoints, making

HIDEOUT: Hotel Cerro de Hijar sits along a 4km dirt track

Yunquera another great base for exploring the park. On the other side of the Guadalhorce valley, the Sierra de Mijas is another amazing place for walking and hiking and is also being considered for natural park status. It is here where the region’s principal towns can be found, including Alhaurin el Grande, Alhaurin de la Torre and Coin – the region’s capital.

AWESOME: Caminito del Rey to open soon

These places have proven to be increasingly popular with expats looking to immerse themselves in a more authentic ‘Spain’, while keeping the coast, Malaga airport and big cities within arm’s reach. “This region is so popular with Brits, which you might not expect at first,” said David McGovern, owner of Manhattan bar in Alora on the northern side of the valley. “They are close to the coast, but it is more scenic, interesting and varied here in the valley.” Following the Malaga railway line you head up to Pizarra and Alora on its way towards Antequera and the world famous climbing area of the El Chorro Gorge. Here, you will find the infamous Caminito del Rey, a spine-tingling walkway along the steep walls of the gorge is due to be reopened to the public next year. You might also consider visiting the historic spa town of Carratraca, which now has an award winning spa hotel, and then the ancient settlement of Ardales which lies just below the lakes and rivers that feed the Guadalhorce river itself. On the way up to the hills take any of the dirt tracks for a stroll and you will quickly come across herds of goats and sheep and often mules ploughing between the olive trees.

THE Guadalhorce valley is 804km2 in size, and home to around 150,000 permanent residents, while many more own second homes there. It has always been known for its citrus production, with orange and lemon plantations stretching out in every direction from the valley’s towns. Of the eight municipalities, Coin is the biggest. But towns such as Alhaurin el grande, Alora and Cartama are also immensely popular with expats. While first colonised by the Romans, it was the Moors who have had the largest influence on the area. Everywhere there is evidence of their work, which tamed the tumbling streams into irrigation systems and brought fertility to the whole of the valley. But while the region has been termed one of the bread-baskets of Andalucia since Roman times, the locals have long struggled with fluctuating rainfall, which can still bring devastating floods to the whole of the valley or leave the land parched for months on end.

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OUTLOOK: The castle looks across the Guadalhorce Valley

Tom Powell takes a stroll up to the ancient Moorish redoubt in Cartama

TANDING atop a hill, bathed in floodlights, Cartama castle at night is a magical juxtaposition of ancient and modern. The crumbling remains are lit up beautifully by lights, recently installed by the town hall. But by day the castle is equally

Castle in the sky worth visiting, as it is a hard task to find any other place offering such far-stretching and diverse views of

the Guadalhorce Valley. Cartama spreads out beneath this hill at the head of the Rio Guadal-

Lighting up the skies

F all the fiestas of the Guadalhorce region, the most spectacular by far must be the famous and dramatic procession of the Virgin of the Rondeles from the Hermitage of Veracruz to the Church of Santiago Apostol through Casarabonela’s steep narrow village streets. The only lighting for this unique event held every December comes from the burning of the oil soaked esparto grass (or rondeles) which illuminate the passage for the team carrying the Virgin. In 2001 the procession was designated a fiesta of national tourist interest.

FLOODLIT: Virgin’s route lit by torchlight Advertorial

Funeral planners take over

T all began from a small office in a narrow backstreet in Alhaurin. And in just eight short years, Iberian Funeral Plans has expanded into Portugal and opened no less than nine new offices. The British-owned independent funeral planning service has undergone a dramatic expansion process and is still looking to grow more. Iberian already has offices in the Algarve, Manilva, Alhaurin el Grande and Nerja, Majorca, Huelva, Tenerife and Alicante, and is continuing to grow at an incredible rate. Director Stephen Nelson explains: “We’ve grown through our customers, so it’s all been a very organic process. We expand with customer driven requests, so we grow from within. “We are opening where our services are needed, so we go wherever there’s an expat community base.” Iberian has proved to be a success because of the caring and understanding attitude of the staff, he insists.

“When somebody passes away their families are usually in shock and not thinking straight,” he continues. “We understand that this is a time that people must not be pressured. We take care of everything so the situation doesn’t have to be any more difficult than it already is for our customers.” For more information, visit www.iberianfuneralplans.com or call 952 491 788 for the Costa del Sol office.

horce, where a restored iron bridge spans the river and connects the town with its train station. A rocky, zig-zag path begins from the main square and leads up to the castle, with pine trees providing shade and benches available for much-needed breathers. At the top stands a pretty shrine to the town’s patron saint - the Ermita de Nuestra Senora de los Remedios. Built in the 17th century over the top of the original 15th century building, the sanctuary was restored as recently as 2007. Inside the shrine you can see an ornate ceiling, crystal chandelier and elaborate decoration, contrasting with

SHADE: Much needed on the climb up the castle

plain wooden benches for the congregation. Further up from here are the remains of the 10th century Moorish castle. The crumbling walls immediately set the imagination running, conjuring up images of this once impenetrable PRETTY: Cartama’s 17th fortress. century shrine The first defensive wall originally had 10 towers and the second eight, but the expansive views will always remain just as strong.

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THRILLED: Mayor Villanova

A sporting year Alhaurin de la Torre named Sports Capital of Europe for 2015 AN incredible 200 sports competitions are to be held in Alhaurin de la Torre next year. The benchmark figure has been set after the town was chosen as 2015 European Sports Capital. The European Capitals and Cities of Sports Federation (ACES) announced that the bustling town near Malaga will hold the honour. Mayor Joaquín Villanova explained what a fantastic place Alhaurin de la Torre was for sports, not just due to its great weather, but because the town is home to 38 sporting facilities, where over 60 different sports are practiced by nearly a third of the population.

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Alhaurin el Grande is slowly returning to the days when it was known as the ‘Garden of Allah’ by the Moors and as the ‘Garden of Eden’ by writer Gerald Brenan

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Market town

T was in Phoenician times that Alhaurin first became a market town, as the already established Iberian tribes bartered their goods with the new arrivals from Lebanon. Later the town thrived under Roman occupation when a number of wealthy merchants from nearby Malaga made money from the rich mineral deposits in the nearby hills. They built sizeable villas, such as Villa de la Mata, and labelled the town Lauro Nova. Evidence has been found in the numbers of coins, statues and pillars, a trio of which stand pride of place opposite the town hall today. But it wasn’t until Moorish times that the town really blossomed, as the Arabs planted new crops in the wide fertile valley that is crossed by two rivers, the Fahala and Blas Gonzales. They introduced acequias (or water courses) to irrigate the entire valley and built a number of important mills, such as the Molino Morisco de los Corchos. An area of particular beauty

GREEN AND GREAT: From the Arabic fortress of Hurique to townm centre church – not to mention an extremely clement climate – it had soon taken on an appropriate new name, that of ‘Garden of Allah’, or Alhaurin.

Remnants of the eight centuries of Arabic rule can still be found, particularly at the Arco del Cobertizo, which was a gateway to the medina,

that had a souk, specialising, among other products, in silk. But the best way to get a feel for the past is to take a walk out into the countryside, in

particular in the area known as Hurique, on the back road to Coin. Parking your car at the charming hotel Finca la Mota, where

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for millennia you can get a great lunch, you walk down into a lovely valley full of mixed agriculture. Alongside charming whitewalled ruins, sit small farmsteads of orange and lemon groves, orchards of plums and peaches and herds of goats and sheep roam around. In the middle distance, seen from miles around, is the imposing 12th century Arabic fortress of Hurique – see photo left - which is well preserved and mirrors a similar fortress, called Ortegicar, near Ronda. Keep on going and you will eventually come to the even more beautiful open space of Barranco Blanco, where the famous Timoteo advert was once filmed underneath its waterfall. One of the last towns to be conquered by the Catholic kings in 1485, it was eventually merged with Alora, Cartama and Coin in 1666 to form a single entity known as the Four Towns. But it was anything but plain sailing for the united municipality and there were epidemics of plague and even an earthquake in 1680. Later, Alhaurin was occupied for four years by the French during the Peninsular War in the early 19th century, which led to the inevitable destruction and upheaval. Since then, apart from the turbulent period during the civil war, the biggest threat to civil peace has been an influx of English hooligans, who thankfully have now all but gone. There is no doubt that Alhaurin el Grande has been through a dramatic transformation over recent years. While it had become a little scruffy a decade ago, wandering around the old town there is a new swagger about the place. Businesses are opening and the type of expat now coming to live here is more interested in integration, learning the language and enjoying the town’s culture. Don’t be put off by its rather ugly outskirts. Head west from the roundabout on Calle Gerald Brenan and you are soon in the

TERRACE SCENE: An outdoor cafe in Alhaurin town centre

Famous for decades

Albaicin barrio, which got its name due to similarities with the same district in Granada. Nearby, leafy Plaza Alta is abuzz with children’s voices and roadside cafes ply their trade late into the evening, while further up the ancient Vera Cruz chapel sits alongside one of the best 180 degree views in inland Malaga. From here you can see why, while nearby Coin might be the official capital of the Valle de Guadalhorce, Alhaurin has always been the real nerve centre. The views stretch for miles around, down towards Malaga

WATER FEATURES: Two Alhaurin fountains

airport and up into the Sierra de las Nieves mountains. At 240m above sea level, the town sits in a commanding position between the 1,100m tall Sierra de Mijas and the fertile valley below, where everything from olives to avocados have been grown for centuries. The streets are tidy and the old buildings have been generally well preserved. There is even a modern new library in the heart of the town. But Alhaurin at its best is the nearby countryside be it heading into the Sierra de Mijas or the valleys below. Come and see the difference.

ALHAURIN has been a popular hideout for celebrities and writers for a century. It was celebrated hispanist Gerald Brenan, who first settled in the town in the 1960s, living there for two decades. Brenan, famous for his evocative South from Granada and benchmark civil war tome The Spanish Labyrinth, described the town as his ‘Garden of Eden’, before moving just down the road a little to Churriana, nearer Malaga. Other more recent celebrities to enjoy the area include Status Quo’s Rick Parfitt, who lives with his wife and kids near the town, while Claire King from Emmerdale is a regular visitor, as is singer Neneh Cherry, who has been a few times on holiday. It has even been said that Coronation Street’s Bet Lynch has a place in the area, having been spotted shopping in Mercadona a couple of times.

Wake up to the valley

HE vast mountains of the Guadalhorce valley and views down to the coast make Malaga Monte Parc one of Andalucia’s stand-out campsites. Just 20 minutes from the beach, 45 minutes from the famous Guadalhorce lakes and surrounded by great cycle tracks and walking routes, the Malaga Monte Parc also a mobile home park - caters to every taste. Expat Lorraine Chaudhry discovered the old abandoned campsite on the outskirts of Alhaurin de la Torre, in 2004, and has since converted it into an ideal park for holidaymakers or residents. “My vision then was to offer each of our clients the opportunity to wake up in the morning to the spectacular scenery,” said Lorraine. “To be able to sit on the decking of your mobile home, eating breakfast and basking in the sun, with the amazing backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains - there’s nothing else like it. Neighbouring Alhaurin de la Torre - just five minutes from the park - is known for its Japanese gardens, beautiful walkways, open air gyms (if you’re feeling fit) and a vast number of speciality tapas bars, as well as fiestas held practically every month. Take the bus to Cartama and get a train to Malaga where you can use the new Metro system to get around, or jump on the tourist bus to get the best information and great views of Malaga City. And what’s more, Malaga Monte Parc is just a 15 minute drive from Malaga airport. How easy is that? The last option of course is to stay on Malaga Monte Parc, relax around the pool, play chess in the garden, or simply link up to our free wifi, take a book from the book swap library, or join us for a sizzling steak on one of the steak evenings. For further information see the front page. Bring the advert with you and join us for a complimentary glass of wine or a cana. For more information, visit www.malagamonteparc.com, email info@malagamonteparc.com, or call 951 296 028

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Alora, at the heart of the Guadalhorce valley is beginning to unveil its fascinating historical importance, writes Tom Powell

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uadalhor

LORA is much more than There is a particularly wellanother white-washed, preserved oriental arch, a fansleepy Andalucian pueb- tastic watch-tower and a multilo. tude of ruins that quickly set Despite keeping its fascinating the imagination running. history to itself with unwarrant- “You can see evidence of all ed modesty, this town has blos- the different ages of the cassomed into a hive of cultural tle, it is so interesting and such activity. a shame that so few people Marked out by its stunning Ara- come and see it,” she said. bic castle atop Cerro de las Tor- It is true that the castle is genres hill, the sprawling streets erally not open to the public, are brought to life through Mo- despite an expensive overhaul roccan and Roman influences some years ago. before them. Now, however, a local tour opHowever the castle is even erator Kora Buggel, from Berolder and was originally built by lin, is hoping to change that. Phoenicians, She can organbefore being ise tours of the expanded uncastle and is Just two years ago, der Roman trying to put on rule. And later where the houses were an event with destroyed by a market and Visigoths in concert to prostruck by a terrible the fifth cenmote this wonflood, killing livestock tury before the derful piece of Moors finally and destroying homes Alora’s history. came and reWhether open built it. or not, the It is a wonderview from ful place to visit - if you can outside the castle walls down get in - and the Muslim mina- the Guadalhorce valley is very ret is still clearly visible today, spectacular. Stretching across protruding defiantly from the endless olive tree plantations, elegant and immaculately pre- it is dissected by the river itself, served castle. roads, and clustered hamlets. Local history expert and mu- A short walk down narrow traseum worker, Maria Jose, gave ditional streets leads to the me an insightful tour of the cas- town’s lowest-lying square. tle and its chapel, built in 1462. Here stands the impressive

Alluring and historic 17th century Catholic church of La Encarnacion, which somehow appears to be even larger on the inside. Adjoining the church is the municipal museum, complete with ancient pottery, historical displays and intense mustiness. It is a Mudejar construction dating from the 16th century and supported by stone pillars and columns. As if by fate, some of the pottery on display was actually found on the site of Kora’s current home, in the countryside below the castle. Unfortunately, the information is only in Spanish at the moment. Even more reason for the Kora Travel team to launch their new Alora tours. “Alora is such a wonderful town, there is so much culture to see in the artists, history and of course, the best food in the region is here,” she explained. Of the numerous town ferias, October’s celebrating the town’s ‘sopa perota’ is the most famous. Each ‘barriada’ cooks its version a delicious thick soup made from local vegetables and bread - in an enormous stone pot, and then dishes it out free for all to sample. There is also a handicraft fair at

the same time, showcasing the best of Alora’s artists and the oriental influences. Hidden right in the heart of the town is an old molino, where olive oil was traditionally produced but it is now used for the occasional concert. Various small museums and bars have sprung up in the centre since

the turn of the century, as this town continues its legacy as one of the most important settlements in the Guadalhorce Valley. It is certainly a bustling place, much busier than I had imagined. One of the highlights is the small bodega belonging to José Miguel Pérez Hidalgo, which produces a range of wines from the Guadalhorce valley’s vineyards, and offers tasting sessions to organised groups. The wine is bottled by hand and sold in restaurants across Malaga province. Another interesting place to visit the railway station area below the castle by the river.

Flood

STATUE: In historic Alora

However it was here, just two years ago, where the houses were struck by a terrible flood, killing livestock and destroying homes. From the castle it is easy to see where the river ripped apart a bridge, separating Barriada Estacion from neighbouring Barriada del Puente. David McGovern, owner of Manhattan bar opposite Alora train

FASCINATING: Alora is mu 17th century church and (b

station, recalls the water flood all of the surrounding buildin reaching metres high. “It was awful, people lost all of th possessions and were left homele for 18 months,” he said. “I gave my Nike trainers to a m who lives just across the river fro us, and he’s still wearing them now And Manhattan, despite at first a pearing slightly out of place in ru Andalucia, is undeniably popu

Made in Morocco, open in H AVING lived in Morocco for eight years and then worked in the travel industry for 10, it’s hard to imagine a better tour guide than Kora Buggel for this mesmerising North African country. Now residing in picturesque Alora, at the foot of the hill which holds up the Arabic castle, Kora is also hoping to promote the town she has fallen in love with. “I moved to Alora because of its Moroccan flavour, evident in the architecture, artists, food and culture,” said Kora, originally from Berlin. Together with British expat Sheena Thatcher, they organise a range of tours to Morocco to suit all tastes, in English, German and Dutch.

Kora Travel specialise in showing people the magic of Morocco, but now want to promote their own home, Alora “Our tours are different to the norm, we head away from the mass tourism zones and try to show people a more authentic Morocco,” explained Sheena. “But of course that doesn’t mean we miss out on Marrakech!” Relaxing, tranquil yoga trips, art and photography workshops, music festivals, Royal cities and ladies-only tours are some of the tantalizing experiences on offer. But Kora remains adamant that her absolute favourite is the magical Southern desert tour, which also takes in Marrakech .

Trekking on donkeys and camels, resting at oasises and sleeping in the finest riads, hand-picked by Kora, this is the ‘ideal way to explore, experience and enjoy Morocco’. “We look after people from the start to the end of their holiday, making sure they are comfortable, safe and happy throughout,” said Kora. Tours can be tailor made around the places you want to see and the length you want to stay, and they also specialise in organising bespoke tours for groups, clubs or large families.

T t b “ t f s t p f C h i s f e

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uch more than a sleepy pueblo, while (right) is mural depicting the town’s history, the bottom) view from the castle

ding ngs,

heir ess

man rom ow!” apural ular

with both expats and locals. After a night spent extremely comfortably with friendly hosts, hearty food and a relaxed atmosphere, I could see why. The building used to be a warehouse for olives, lemons and oranges, with train tracks coming right up to its entrance for loading. And after opening up as an American diner and hotel three years ago, Manhattan continues

to be as important to the local community, both by employing locals and hosting their parties. “I love it here, everyone in the town knows us, even the local police and mayor come down here for parties,” said David. And with trains running every hour from Malaga, it’s easily accessible. Across the trainline are some beautiful, large

merchant’s houses. And one of these – which has been converted into a bed and breakfast – will house Kora Travel’s Alora trippers for a night. And they will be treated to one of Alora’s most stunning sites. The castle, lit up like a halo, is utterly alluring at night… A sight not to be missed.

n Alora

They are now using their travel experience to promote their own town, Alora, a place brimming with history and cultural interest. “There is so much to see and do here, with the castle, the culture and the incredible food, we really want people to come and see that and for the locals to start benefitting from it,” said Kora. Their first Alora experiences begin this October, with the local feria and then a separate art workshop. Cooking with a local chef, sampling Guadalhorce valley wine at a bodega and staying in a traditional merchant’s house are just some of the experiences included. For information and bookings visit www.koratravelgroup.com or call 0034 610 936 549

ALL SMILES: Sheena (left) and Kora happy in Alora

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Why Coin - the capital of the Guadalhorce Valley - is closely connected to Captain Cook, Christopher Columbus and Eldorado… not to mention citrus fruits

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the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

T is no surprise to find an orange tree on Coin’s coat of arms. The town is literally surrounded by citrus plantations, with the area a true rural community. Despite growing considerably over recent years the town still has a curious sense of being both bustling and rural in equal measures. You still regularly see tractors and quad-bikes buzzing about its narrow streets and there are plenty of businesses dedicated to agricultural pursuits and farming tools. Much of this is thanks to the Moors, whose clever use of water and love of gardens and planting, left the surrounding countryside full of profitable businesses, who sold to the coast and, indeed, further afield. Thankfully when the Arabic invaders were ejected from the town in 1485, after a long

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Bitter sweet living siege, the town’s Christian Crusaders from the north, who may have included Christopher Columbus, didn’t alter much.

Legacy

The legacy of using acequias to water the fields is still used

today and the countryside is among the wealthiest in Andalucia growing citrus fruits, avocadoes and pomegranates, in particular. This agricultural legacy was clearly noted by British explorer Captain Cook when he visited the town, along with Cártama and Alhaurín

BEAUTY: Captain Cook admired Coin and the surrounding plantations in 1829. Travelling with the Royal Navy, he was mightily impressed. “These villages are on rising ground above the river and in beauty of situation and cultivation cannot be excelled,” he wrote. “They afford a specimen of the whole country when pos-

sessed by the Moors, being surrounded by gardens with orange, lemon and palm trees and abounding in all the fine as well as the more common fruits.” Over 4,000 foreigners are said to live in the mountain town of around 20,000 people. The majority Brit-

ish - but increasingly with a large number of Dutch and Germans - they enjoy the more relaxed country town living, while still having excellent connections for the airport and nearby Costa del Sol. A big town, it has the quality of life of a village and a

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very laid back feel. Best of all, it has a lovely average annual temperature of 15 degrees. It was the Romans who gave the town its first name ‘Lacibis’, it became an important market town and transition point for the minerals being quarried in the nearby Sierra Blanca. Marble from these quarries was used in the construction of the Roman town of Italica, or Roman Seville, and the mining of iron ore and marble continued into the 19th century. During the time of the Visigoths, like many places in Andalucia, the town lost its lustre and largely fell into ruin until the Moors conquered the region and rebuilt it around 929 AD.

A top spot RELAXED: Locals in Coin and (left) alternative transport

The town has grown rapidly over the last two decades and even counts its own

shopping centre La Trocha, with a cinema and branches of Dunnes and Corte Ingles. It is a popular shopping trip for expats who come from all around the region, and even the coast… and, best of all, here you will find a big Sunday market, which on its day is one of the best attended in Andalucia, with people sometimes queueing up all night to get a stall, it being so oversubscribed.

1 There is a large football ground with many different teams from seniors to juniors all of whom play in leagues throughout Andalucia 2 Legend has it that Christo-

pher Columbus was among the Christian troops who laid siege to the town during its final Moorish phase

3 There is a state-of-the-art library called Fernando de Hermosa y Santiago. As well as many books, of course, there is a book club and they have now installed free WiFi 4 Coin has TWO ferias. One

EMPTY: The old set today and (inset) some of the cast

Biggest flop in British TV history I T has been well over a decade since Eldorado slunk from the TV screens with a whimper and an hasta luego. While there have been various stories of its return, it still remains the biggest soap opera flop in British TV history. Ham-strung with problems from the start, the show suffered from poor casting, bad storylines and cringing performances by ac-

Insurance agent Jacqueline Caplan lists her top 10 reasons to live in Coin

tors, many of whom didn’t even know what a read-through was. Indeed, the only thing producers had no shortage of was sunshine, with the set appropriately built in the hills above Coin. Today it stands as a sad (and to be fair, rather tacky) reminder of the BBC’s failure to replicate on screen the life on the Spanish costas.

in the month of May and one in the month of August

5 Day of the Orange in May

is a popular day for folk in the Guardalhorce Valley, who all get together bringing along their citrus fruits and the main meal of the day that is handed out to locals is salads, pudding and boiling soup

Dia de la Cruz sees a religious figure taken from one of the many churches in Coin and carried round the town. The streets are decorated and the best decorated street wins a cash prize

SACAB. This stands for Salon Andaluz del Caballo, which is a big horse event

There is a cinema in Coin with seven screens. They put on films in English on a regular basis which are very popular with expatriates

9 Restaurants come in many different flavours and include Italian and Indian 10

On Sunday La Trocha shopping centre holds a large car boot sale which is extremely popular and gets very busy

Avda Maria Zambrano 17, Coin Tel: 665 340 306 / 952 452 554

David, Tina & Family welcome you to The Olive Tree All Day Breakfasts from 3,50 euros 5 euro meal deals Live entertainmnet

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uadalhorce Valley More and more people are looking for an authentic Spanish life in the wild and green Guadalhorce Valley, writes Tom Powell

Posh with a capital ‘P’

HEN it comes to pedigree they certainly take some beating. While established in Alhaurin el Grande since 2004, Posh Pets Spain has over 60 years of experience working with pedigree dogs. Founder Rachel Goutorbe has a long established history of showing, judging, breeding & gundog work. Indeed, her family kennels with the ‘Upperwood Affix’ are still among the top breeders and trainers of Setters and Pointers in the UK and export their famous bloodlines all over the world. So it is little surprise that Posh Pets can provide every possible thing you could want for your pet. Whether it is a full groom or clipping service, teeth cleaning with a scrape or polish without sedation Posh Pets provides an array of pet accessories and products, as well as Pet ID tags that are engraved on site. The centre has also established itself as a popular training centre for groomers from around

POOCH PAMPERING: One lucky pet

June 25 - July 9 2014

UN-SEEKING expats and second-home buyers are rapidly opting for the beauty of

TOP PURCHASE: In Guaro

ROYAL GUEST: Dogs are treated like kings

Europe, with recent students coming from Ireland, Switzerland, England, Malta and Lithuania. The Boutique Dog Hotel and Cattery boasts excellent facilities for play and rest and even comes with sun beds, paddling pools and toys. The cattery rooms have a full panoramic view at the bottom of the orchard away from any dogs complete with cat trees, toys, music (favourites include Love Cats by the Cure, Best of the Stray Cats and anything by Atomic Kitten) and for the occasional chilly evening the cats are provided with radiators. Pet transportation has also become a major service with the company now relocating pets all around Europe to their new homes. Fully licensed with a bespoke service in beautiful, correctly customised vehicles. This is a ‘Pet Only’ travel service for peace of mind where all pets are given plenty of individual space and comfort during travel; and the vehicles have been fully inspected and approved by DEFRA. For more information on all the service kindly visit www.poshpetsspain.com

Into

the Guadalhorce Valley over the glamour of the coast, according to local estate agents.

As Marbella drags the coastal property market out of the economic crisis, things are looking up in the valley too. More and more buyers – predominantly British – are snapping up second homes in the region, more so than permanent moves. And with the valley increasing in popularity, estate agents are discovering that supply is lagging considerably behind demand. “We are desperate for people looking to sell property in the Guadalhorce Valley, as there is no shortage of prospective buyers,” explained Jo Wood, owner of Grapevine Properties, based in Guaro.

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the valley

“Prices won’t be dropping any lower now, and if things continue to be this busy they

will begin rising again by next year.” It appears that confi-

dence is returning to the towns and villages of the valley too, with more bars

and museums springing up encouraging more movement in the property

On the up in Alora I

T has been an exciting year-anda-half for Alora’s leading agent Margaret Mitchell. The boss of Alora Properties, who has been based in the area for 16 years, has had an incredible 30 offers accepted since January last year. “And I completed on two properties alone on Friday,” added the friendly Scot, who was born in Faslane. But it has been anything but an easy ride for Mitchell, who has seen 12 agencies close in the area over the last five years. “Since the recession began it has been tough,” she explained. “There used to be 15 agents here, now there are just three. “Between 2008 and 2012 nobody was buying, but now things are definitely picking up nicely and thankfully prices are not yet going up.” Prices in the area are very reasonable with country fincas, the few that are

IN DEMAND: Homes in the picturesque town of Alora left, coming in for around €150,000 to €180,000, three-bed country villas at around the €200,000 mark and townhouses for under €200,000. She explained that there was now a healthy mix of buyers from the UK, Holland and Belgium and she was expecting more to come next year.

market. WELL INFORMED: Jo and And there are numerous Graham Wood of Grapeother reasons why people are vine Properties lured north into the Guadalhorce valley. The area has a great series of large market towns, such as Coin and Alhaurin el Grande, as well as Malaga and the Costa del Sol airport right on your doorstep. But Jo believes moving to the valley is more of a cultural than logistical decision. “It is a different way of life and a far more authentically Spanish experience here,” said Jo, originally from Yorkshire but moved to Spain with her husband and three children 15 years ago. GOOD DEALS: To be had in

Alhaurin de la Torre

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ll about

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uadalhorce valley

WHERE TO STAY

ALLURING: Juanarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terrace and location (right)

HERE are some amazing places to stay in the Guadalhorce Valley. But you would be hard pressed to beat the chilled out Finca la Mota, in Alhaurin, that was once one of the biggest estates in the entire valley. The 350-year-old farmhouse sits in its own secret valley, surrounded by stunning countryside and with views to match. Run by Dutch father and sons Reuben and Danny, you enter into a classic patio Andaluz with a huge pool and its own terrace restaurant. Inside it is charming with comfortable rooms and a separate dining area. A lovely shady pool and views to match make up the scene. Another fantastic rural option is Hotel Cerro de Hijar, in Tolox. Sitting in one of the most privileged spots in the heart of the Sierra de las Nieves, the views are to die for and, best of all, the hotel has a great restaurant to eat in as well. Wake up to birdsong and head

Rural retreat

up into the nearby hills for a proper escape from the norm. Another amazing place worth considering is Refugio de Juanar en route to the valley in the nearby Sierra Blanca mountain range that divides the Guadalhorce Valley and the coast. Once a state-run parador, this incredible spot was taken over 30 years ago by four partners in a sort of management buyout. Little has changed since then and it has a very authentic, rather eccentric and laid back feel. Just a short drive to Monda, it sits in the heart of dense pine, olive and chestnut woods and

HISTORIC: Finca la Mota counts on its own swimming pool and excellent dining room and bodega. It is incredibly close to the coast (less than half an hour) yet feels like one of Andaluciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

most incredible retreats. Best of all, in the morning, you can walk up into the hills to a viewing point, the Cruz de Juanar from which you can see the whole coastline.

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ll about

WHERE TO EAT

ITH an incredible range of local produce it is no surprise you can eat well in the Guadalhorce Valley. Casa Paco attracts diners from far and wide and understandably so, not just for its amazing range of fresh fish and sea food, but also its stylish interior. It has also been running since 1985 with current owner Juan starting to work there at the ripe old age of 16. A charming livewire with a young family, he works extremely hard to make sure the offering is continually fresh and of the season and it is not for nothing this is one of the genuine ‘dining secrets’ of Andalucia. The hot conchas finas are always incredible, while the razor shells are as fresh as can be and the grilled langoustines unforgettable. A stuffed tomato with tuna, egg mayonnaise and prawns is superb.

uadalhorce Valley

Creative cuisine TASTY: Oliver’s, while (right) Casa Paco and a prawn-stuffed tomato, (below) Mota’s terrace and a delicious herring on brown bread

Idyll

La Mota on the outskirts of Alhaurin, in its own secret valley, is another extremely popular rural option. Run by a Dutch family, you dine on a candle-lit terrace at night surrounded by mature pine, orange and avocado trees. A classic rural idyll, the diners are spoilt with a great mix of international dishes, with a slant on the oriental, Moroccan and Thai. A superb herring came on brown bread with a delicious cucumber and onion dill, while the chicken satay was as good as anywhere in the valley. The Thai prawn and chicken curry came in red, green or yellow depending on your preference for spice and was delicious. The apple strudel was a sure fire winner to finish. Just up the road is the French stalwart El Postillon, sitting in a fantastic terrace overlooking a leafy garden and with views into the nearby Sierra de Mijas. But you are here for the cooking and Xavier Sierra, who has done his time training around Spain and France, knows how to put a few dishes together, such as great terrine,

lovely seafood ‘gratin’ with prawns and scallops or a fresh sea bream. Best of all, the three-cour se set menu is a steal at 19 euros. A new restaurant worth checking out is Oliver’s in the heart of town. Recently opened by Ron Birkett and Karen Bradshaw, the couple have lived in Spain for 30 years and know a bit about cooking. It’s a daytime joint, with a great range of healthy options such as salads and quiches. However, they also do pies and BBQ ribs, as well as a great battered cod, with chips and mushy peas, as well as a Sun-

day roast with fresh veg for just €7.50. Over in Coin, you must try and look out the popular Orange Tree restaurant. An increasingly popular place to hang out, it has lots of car parking outside with great food. Run by David, Tina and family, you will always get a great welcome. Over in Coin, you must look out the adventurous and highly romantic, Bohemia restaurant in the centre of town. The owner Pedro Trillo has incredible talent both for his interior design, food and original tapestries which line the walls.

MAESTRO: French talent Xavier serves up a great terrine on his terrace at El Postillon

June 26 - July 9 2014

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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Property Property

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41 June 25 - July 9 2014

Man the battlements

A SPANISH castle has gone on the market for a bargain €3.3 million, the same price as a central London townhouse. The 1920s property in the Valle Iruelas Nature Reserve in Castilla y Leon spends six months of the year surrounded by water, when it is only accessible by boat. Complete with a 150-seat banquet hall, the castle - near Avila – has 10,000 square metres of private island, a jetty, numerous terraces, battlements and a fully equipped gym.

BARGAIN: Surrounded by water

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 201441 41

MIJAS June 11 - VILLA June 25 2014 €395,000*

Gorgeous Villa in Valtocado, only 7 min from Mijas Pueblo. Panoramic views. Spacious and bright, Lush gardens. Beds: 3 Baths: 4 Built: 340m2 Plot: 1,850m2

T: 670 607 246 952 486 296 E: mijas@palominoproperties.com www.palominoproperties.com

Hey big spenders MIDDLE Eastern investors are set to spend nearly €45 billion in the European real estate markets over the next decade. The majority of this will be spent in Spain, France, Germany and Italy, claims research from global property advisor CBRE. A further €62 billion is also set to be spent in the UK market. The massive increase in investment is due to the region’s huge spending power, combined with very few domestic real estate opportunities.

Middle Eastern investors hit European market with €107 billion “The ‘buy and hold’ strategy adopted by many Middle Eastern investors within their home region and the resultant lack of deal flow opportunities leaves much demand here,” said CBRE Middle East managing director Nick Maclean. “Coupled with increased

INVESTORS: On the up

confidence in global markets and the need for diversification, overseas investment has grown strongly.” Arabic investors have already invested more than FOREIGN property buyers are increasingly running into problems by us- €15 billion globally in the last two ing online translation sites to understand contracts. In a bid to cut costs they are using sites like Google Translate to put the years alone and over the next 10 Spanish contracts into English. However, they are putting themselves at ‘great risk’ by not using profes- years it has been estimated that sional translators, claims property expert Simon Conn. “Some people might think they can save money by using a free translation they will spend service,” said Conn. “But misunderstandings in the contracts could end up €132 billion. costing people a lot more.”

Lost in translation

PROPERY SALES • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • PROjEcT MANAGEMENT PLANNiNG • REfuRbiShMENT • TuRNkEY cONSTRucTiON George T Klein, founder of Klein & Partner, has many years of experience and expertise working in the property market of Marbella and its surrounds on Spain's renowned Costa del Sol. The result is that, today, Klein & Partner is recognized as being one of the most established and reputable real-estate agencies in the area - a company that goes far beyond mere property sales and purchase, but provides a whole realm of additional support services. Tel: (+34) 952765636

E: klein@kleinandpartner.com

www.kleinandpartner.com

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Property

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And the survey says: you need your property looking at

HEN buying property in Spain, it’s all too easy to fall in love with the dream and forget about the reality of what may lie beneath the postcard-perfect image. Having a survey done means never having to say, “I’m sorry I bought the place.” If you’re from northern Europe and have ever purchased a property, at home, you almost certainly had a survey carried out, to ensure an expert told you what you were looking at and what you might need to look out for. Sometimes, however, buyers skip the survey stage in Spain, only to discover, too late, what they wish they’d known before buying. To take a closer look at what you should be looking at when buying in Spain, we spoke to Michael Millgate, a partner of Belilos, the Gibraltar-based firm of civil and structural engineers that has worked on some of the Rock’s biggest projects over the last quarter century, like King’s Wharf, the territory’s tallest building, and the new 600-unit Mons Calpe public-housing scheme. In the last five years, Belilos conducted more than 50 structural conditions surveys in southern Spain, from Cádiz to Murcia, offering clients ex-

pert opinions on what they may find behind those lovely whitewashed walls and terracotta tiles. Michael, who is qualified as a structural engineer in Spain and the UK, has over 30 years’ experience in the sector and remains ‘passionate about providing excellent service at good value’.

Foundations

Michael admits some buyers here, including a lawyer in recent memory, seem to leave their common sense on the plane, especially when they think they’ve stumbled upon the last cheap cortijo in the campo. What they don’t realise, until they notice their pool is heading downhill fast or the town hall comes knocking with a summons for planning

infractions, is that having a survey done can save hassle and money, in the long-term. “Our clients are mostly firstand second-home buyers from the UK and the north of Europe,” Michael explains, “but we also act for, and against, insurance companies and, increasingly, for communities. Our structural work concerns the fabric of a building, from skin to foundations. We inspect the property, diagnose problems, identify remedies, and value the cost of repairs to make things good.” Under Law 38/1999, on building planning, better known as the LOE, Michael notes that buyers of properties built after 2000 are ‘fairly well-protected’, with a right of recourse against architects, builders, and developers for structural faults: “The

The Property Insider by Adam Neale

LOE saves the gullible from the worst that can happen,” he says. Moreover, Michael points out the fact that projects built post-2000 must be registered for 10 years with the architects’ and engineers’ societies in the province where a property is located, provides another guarantee for buyers of new and recently built properties. Older properties, however, and those in rural areas often do not offer the same security should something go wrong. A structural conditions survey – which normally costs between €750-900 and takes a maximum of two weeks to complete from the first contact with a client, to commissioning the work, to inspecting the property, and producing an in-depth report – represents a very reasonable expense for a prospective purchaser. After all, how much is your peace of mind worth? “Most of us live in an economy where the largest single investment we make in our lives is our home,” Michael concludes. “The price of a survey is negligible when buying a property that can be upwards of a million euros, but the cost of repairs can be significant. That’s the real value of what we do.”

Terra Meridiana. 77 Calle Caridad, 29680 Estepona. Tel: +34 951 318480. Office Mob: +34 678 452109 Email: info@terrameridiana.com. http://www.terrameridiana.com

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Looking To Sell Your Property? Siesta Real Estate is part of Siesta Homes and operates from 4 prime location offices in the Marbella area. We are real estate professionals and property developers. As an established and trusted partner to Spanish banks and institutional investors we have a vast number of clients looking to buy property on the Costa del Sol. OUR SUCCESS is achieved through our different approach to real estate and the professionalism of our staff. If you are looking to sell your home and want a different real estate experience THEN… Contact Us Today and Get Your Property Sold

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Top Dollar Relief at last www.theolivepress.es

SPAIN’S age of austerity could be about to finally end as income tax levels come crashing down. Ignoring the views of the European Union, the government has announced an average decrease of 12.5% over the next two years. This means the top rate of tax is falling from 47% to 45% in a bid to help kickstart the economy. But income tax rates are due to fall in all income bands under the new rules, which come in next year. The rate for the lowest tax bracket will fall from 24% to 20% from January 1, and fall again to 19% in 2016. Tax on savings will return to the level of 2011, while a new category will be intro-

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 201445 45

The Olive Press fortnightly business section taking a look at the Spanish economy and offering tips on how to save AND make money

Lower taxes for all as Spain defies the EU to ease austerity measures

duced for families. The government is also promising further support for the self-employed and DEFIANT: minister Montoro homeowners. “The time has come for lower taxes for sate for the lower taxes. everybody,” said finance minister Cris- Others who will benefit from the reforms include borrowers who have lost their tobal Montoro. The moves are proving controversial homes after defaulting on mortgage pay,however, with both the European Com- ments. mission and the International Monetary The Mortgage Victims’ Association Fund insisting the tax reforms could lim- (PAH), a support group that has been deit Spain’s ability manding legislative changes, estimates to meet its deficit 15,000 families could benefit. With these reforms, the PP hopes to reAdvertorial targets. Montoro is also verse its decision of 2011 – its first act afresisting the EU’s ter gaining power was to raise taxes, with request for further around 50 tax hikes during PM Rajoy’s THERE is only one officially registered yacht broker company rises in IVA (or first two years in office. in the whole of mainland Spain, and it is here in Duquesa on VAT) to compenthe Costa del Sol. Monitor Marine, part of the Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents, has been aiding clients from across Europe with the sale and purchase of yachts for 25 years. 50%. SANTANDER has sold And after the original founders retired five years ago, Duquesa The bank’s custody holdresident of 45 years and shipping enthusiast Tom Williams 50% of its securities ings - mainly in Spain, took over the helm. custody business to a Almost 70, he has seen the port he loves change and evolve Mexico, and Brazil - have group of investors led enormously. “It’s the best place on the planet, and I’m surbeen valued at €738 milby US buyout firm Warrounded by such wonderful people,” he said. lion. burg Pincus for €410 Born and raised in Liverpool, Tom has always had a passion for Santander CEO Javier million. boats and the shipping industry. Marín feels confident The Euro Zone’s biggest As a result, he can boast 40 years of experience in ship-broking, charthat the deal will sigbank will retain the other tering, management and agency, as well as marine project shipping.

Passion for shipping

Salaries slump ARTISTS and real estate agents have been most affected by the economic crisis, according to data from Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE). The salaries in these sectors have decreased 4.7% so far this year, while last year they saw an average decrease of 4.5%. However, all workers in Spain’s service sector, where the majority of workers - 10.7 million - are employed, have seen an average fall in wages of 0.5%. Salaries in the construction sector have been completely frozen, as a result of the major contraction in the property market. Spain’s average salary for the first quarter of 2014 was €1,805.76, a 0.2% decrease from last year.

Santander sells custody holdings to US firm nificantly improve the bank’s custody activity. Also involved in the Santander acquisition is Singapore’s Temasek, one of Warburg Pincus’s newest business partners.

BUSINESS IN BRIEF Apple’s ‘hot’ product APPLE has recalled certain European charger adapters because of overheating risks. The company is offering free replacements at their stores.

‘Crushing’ news FACEBOOK suffered its longest cease in service on Thursday last week. A whopping 30 minutes without status postings and Candy Crush requests.

Buy buy buy AMAZON CEO Jeff Bezos unveiled the company’s Fire Phone, clearly geared to online shopping. Its picture recognition software called ‘Firefly’ can take a photo of physical objects and find the Amazon page where it’s sold.

Top Dollar

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the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

AGONY ANT YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED

The legality of running a business in a residential complex

HUGE number of disputes between ‘communities of owners’ find their way to the courts. The nature of these disputes ranges from the rather boring claims over unpaid dues to the more exciting topic of what may or may not be allowed within the urbanization. So which activities are deemed illegal? In principle, those forbidden are expressed in the statutes. As a rule of thumb, the following are illegal: activities deemed cumbersome, immoral, obnoxious, unhealthy, dangerous or contrary to morals. These might include opening a bar, a laboratory, a massage parlour, a poker room, or, for example, a drug user who lets the home and himself reach a state of total decay. I have even heard of dog or cat breeding businesses being overruled and in another case a judge deemed that an insurance brokerage was a noisy activity and thus banned it… on the grounds that the clients used the lift continuously. And what about noisy neighbours, how is that dealt with? This is a tricky one as what is acceptable for someone may be unacceptable for someone else and where in doubt, a dispute is bound to arise.

UNCLEAR: The rules of urbanizations The difficulty to deal with such disputes has resulted in the Theory of Due Tolerance. This theory encapsulates five principles: 1. Reciprocity: if for example other neighbours do the same unopposed, we may infer it is correct to follow suit 2. Just or fair balance: if diverse behaviours are not on a collision path, they should be allowed to exist 3. ‘Estoppel’: it stops one going against one’s own actions 4. Prolonged consent: if a certain behaviour goes unopposed for a long period of time, consent is assumed 5. Permissiveness: it mixes consent with the notion of social acceptability

Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.es

Poverty rate soars in Andalucia during economic crisis

ANDALUCIA has the second fastest-growing poverty rate in Spain, according to a report by the Fundacion Bancaja. The region ranks just behind Extremadura in the human poverty index (HPI) and just ahead of the Canary Islands. According to the study, these three regions also have the worst economic performance in the country. In comparison, Navarra, the Basque region and Cantabria have decreased their poverty rates.

Down and out

Unemployment

The human poverty index in Spain has increased by 1.7% during the crisis, with a 16.2% increase in those living below the poverty line and a huge 565% growth in unemployment. The HPI calculation takes into account both economic poverty (income and unemployment) as well as human capital poverty (health and education). Paradoxically, in Spain, life expectancy rates above 60 years of age have in-

POVERTY: Rocketing in Andalucia

creased while school dropout rates have decreased, two statistics that would normally help the human capital side of a country’s

HPI. However, the country’s massive rise in unemployment negates these positives.

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the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

The Insurance Doctor Danni Worth gives his tips on getting the best home insurance

HOME is the most valuable investment that the majority of people make in their lives. And it follows that the insurance policy you buy to protect it should match your expectation in the event of a loss. There are many variables when it comes to insuring a home – in particular if the home in question is abroad - so the following checklist should help you ensure you get the correct cover. 1. The sums insured Many problems and arguments following a loss can be traced back to not having the correct sums insured in the first place. Most policies will contain an ‘underinsurance clause’ which will serve to penalize the client if, in the event of a loss, the clients was deemed to be underinsured. It’s worth spending a little time and getting these figures right. In the case of buildings these should be insured on a full reconstruction basis – in other words what it would cost you to build the property from scratch, including architect’s fees, building licences etc. In terms of contents, these should be valued on a replacement cost as new – and should include furniture, audio/hifi, sports

Home Insurance Checklist

equipment, rugs, curtains, linen, personal effects, clothes, books etc… It’s also worth noting that for most Spanish companies kitchen and bathroom fittings are deemed to be contents.

European policy. The key difference is that the British policy tends to be written on an ‘All Risks’ basis whilst the Spanish ones tend to be on a ‘Defined Risks’ basis.

2. Security Make sure that your insurance company clearly understands the extent of the security you have in place. If you have declared an alarm system linked to a ‘central station’, then the company will expect this to be activated whenever the property is left empty – and failure to do this will lead to problems in the event of a claim.

4.Objects of value and jewellery If you are fortunate enough to own a collection of art, antiques, rugs, silver, etc, or indeed any jewellery, you should prepare an inventory of the items along with values and make sure that your insurers have a copy of it. While not essential it’s also useful to have photographs of these items as well. Your insurer may insist on some or all of the jewellery being kept in the safe.

3.The scope of cover For those clients who have been used to buying insurance in the UK, there are considerable differences between a UK policy and a Spanish/

5. Liability This is something which is often overlooked, but which really should get much more attention. Liability claims on home policies tend to be quite rare, however, given the nature of Op de Beeck & Worth - Insurance Brokers the risk it is impossible to know the extent of your exposure, as C. C. Guadalmina IV - Locales 97-98, 29670, San Pedro your liability towards third parties Alcantara (Málaga) - Tel +34 952 88 22 73/Fax +34 952 88 42 26 has NO limit. olivepress@opdebeeck-worth.com - www.opdebeeck-worth.com Spanish policies tend to have

lower liability limits than UK policies, however, in recent years they have started to make higher limits available, and the cost of homeowners liability is relatively low – so best advice is to buy the highest limit that you can. 6. Some areas to be aware of Spanish companies tend to offer very restricted cover outside of the home – normally restricted to violent ‘hold-up’ and limited to small amounts which tend to be under € 1,000 with further sub limits for cash and jewellery. Accidental damage has historically been excluded from Spanish policies, although some are now including a limited form of cover. Simple loss, disappearance or breakage of items tend to be excluded under Spanish policies. If you rent your home out, either on a long term or short term basis, then you should make sure that your insurer is aware of this. Owners of high value homes will normally find that standard insurance policies do not offer the scope of cover

they require, and they should discuss their requirements with a specialist broker. As with many things, the best advice is to seek out the assistance of a professional who fully understands the market place. One final word of advice – price is important and you should strive to get value for money. However, the level of cover and service is just as important, and in the event of a loss, it becomes far more important than the price you paid in the first place. As John Ruskin once said: “It’s unwise to pay too much, but it’s also unwise to pay too little. When you pay too much you lose a little money, that is all. When you pay too little, you sometimes lose everything, because the thing which you bought was incapable of doing the thing you bought it to do.”

Top Dollar

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 201449 49

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‘ERE’ we go (to the job centre)

Road to Riches, by Richard Alexander

‘Sell in May and go away’ Are we looking for a dip in the economy come the summer and if so where should you put your money, asks Richard Alexander

F you wondered where this saying comes from, it is a well-known adage in trading circles. A call to traders to sell their stock holdings early to avoid the summer slump in equity markets between May and October each year. There is historical evidence to suggest there may have been truth in this saying for some markets. According to the Stock Traders Almanac, since 1950, the Dow Jones Industrial Average has shown an medium return between May and October that is substantially lower than average gains from November to April. Precise reasons for this downturn are not known, but some claim that it reflects lower trading volumes during summer

holiday months compared to the higher volumes traded during the winter. This is, of course, simply looking at one particular stock market influence in the US. Today we live in an infinitely more global environment, but sentiment is contagious and market trends in one country will spread around the world as markets open for business. Economic data and political concerns will always influence the markets, so one cannot simply point to summer holidays as the sole reason to sell up. Renewed growth in the UK economy and the prospect of increasing interest rates contrasts with other European countries – many still in a difficult economic position.

Beached: lazy days for markets? Indeed, with ECB interest rates reduced still further, the worst in Europe may be yet to come. Increasing interest rates should be good news for investors but we have already seen how the big banks conspire against existing customers by excluding them from transferring ISA accounts in the UK into the new NISA accounts. For new customers, the banks are offering higher rates but you cannot (in the main) transfer existing accounts over to get the better rate. So where does this leave the average investor and how can you be sure you are getting the best return on your investments, particularly if you are looking to generate income from your capital?

Well, there is some good news from a perhaps unexpected direction. It is not often that I promote a product provider specifically, but established life assurance company Prudential has a long track record of providing ‘smoothed’ investment returns from some of their PruFunds. They have also increased their expected growth rates on their ‘Cautious’ and ‘Growth’ funds. These rates are announced each quarter and unlike the banks, their policyholders will benefit from the increased rate in full and with Prudential smoothed returns, investors don’t need to be concerned about selling in May – or any other time of the year.

Richard Alexander Financial Planning Limited is an appointed representative of L J Financial Planning Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK. Contact him at Richard@ra-fp.com

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1.IBAN IBAN is the International Bank Account Number that identifies your account anywhere in the world. With a maximum of 34 digits it includes the following in order: 2 digits country code 2 digits check digit 30 digits (max) account identification specific to each country

Call now for more information on 902 123 104 UK IBAN example: GB19 LOYD 3096 1700 7099 43 2.BIC BIC (Bank Identifier Code) numbers will be phased out for cross-border payments by February 2016.

3.PAYMENT CARDS All payment cards will be migrated from magnetic strip to EMV chip. There is currently no date for completion. Timeline for the SEPA process The process began in 1999 and is now in the final migration phase. with Mark Rickard February 2014: Credit transfers and direct debits in the EU should be carried out in accordance with the standards mentioned above. A six month transition period is being introduced. S Spain and England crashed out of February 2016: For niche prodWorld Cup last week an uncomfortable ucts with specific characterisquiet fell over Centro Plaza. tics a longer transition phase With only beer and hotdogs to prois made for in some countries. vide solace, myself and HiFX’s business pals 31 October 2016: EU member watched England’s miserable 11 crush the states with non-euro currendreams of patriotic expats in Spain... Thankcies must adhere to standards fully FIFA restricted further World Cup coverset for credit transfers and direct debits in euros, by this end age to FilmON viewers, cutting short the inevidate. table depression. SEPA indicators. Key facts at a In better news, we have data galore this week: glance. we have more positive news for the UK EconSEPA credit transfers as a % of omy, mortgage approval figures, the Nationtotal EU transactions is 93.9%* wide House Price Index, Q1 GDP and the Bank ty rebound and tapered by another $10 billion SEPA direct debit as a % of total of England Stability Report. In Europe, it’s all about German manufactur- last week. Every day this week we have key transactions is 80.3%* transactions as a % of toing and consumer confidence. Can they recov- data – GDP Q1, consumer sentiment, durable EMV tal transactions is 79.6%** er from their sixth consecutive poor business goods. Can they keep up the momentum? *February 2014-03-21 sentiment survey? Well… ‘They always put in a We’re happy to help as always, but excuse the **June 2013 2. SEPA direct debit Now charges can be made directly to an account in one EU country for services provided by a company based in another country.

Market mumbles

Rolling commentary

good second half performance.’ The US has been reporting a consumer activi-

football puns… they’re all I have left!

Contact HiFX to help you with your international transactions, call in at Centro Plaza, call 951 203 986 or email olivepress@hifx.co.uk

More information on Linea Directa online at www.lineadirecta.com

Junta minister Magdalena Alvarez set to lose her lucrative bank role over benefits scandal By Carey Camel ONE of Spain’s brassiest politicians may finally be out of her cushy bank job. Former Junta Finance Minister Magdalena Alvarez could lose her role as vice president of the European Investment Bank (BEI) due to her connections to the ERE corruption scandal. Spain’s Finance Minister Luis de Guindos is set to rule whether Alvarez will continue to be vice president after her role in the ERE scandal. She is currently Spain’s representative in the EU’s official investment bank. However, as more evidence emerges about her links to the billion euro early retirement and benefits scandal, her role looks shaky at best. She has been charged in the scandal, which involved thou-

FRAUD: Alvarez awaits verdict on taking bungs sands of illegal grants given to fictitious companies and employees who never actually worked for them. At a meeting of the Council of Ministers of Economy and Finance of the European Union, de Guindos said that Spain will rule on Alvarez’s future and that of others involved in the scam.Mercedes Alaya, the judge investigating ‘ERE gate’, has revealed evidence for crimes of embezzlement and breach of trust during Alvarez’s time as the Minister of the Junta’s Finance and Economy Board.

50 50 the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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OP Columnists The crossroads of all civilisation Belinda Beckett, aka Mistress of Sizzle, introduces us to her barrio – Los Barrios.

F ‘we are what we eat’ – my bathroom scales support that theory – are we also ‘where we live?’ I looked in the mirror last week and saw a country bumpkin, so yes. No trace of the Marbella Belle I once aspired to be! It was a shock moving to the boondocks of Los Barrios. The confusion living in a town called ‘The Districts’ causes: BIRTHDAY CAKE: The local roundabout was literally ‘blown out’ “Yes but which barrio?”...“No, Los

Spain shattered

T wasn’t supposed to happen. Spain’s all conquering national football team, La Roja, crashed out of the World Cup in embarrassing style. The defending World and European Champions, with stars such as Xavi, Iniesta, Sergio

Ramos and goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas, were humiliated by the Dutch team 5-1 (and my sources in Amsterdam tell me that the celebrations there went on for days) and were well beaten by Chile 2-0. Casillas, who before this World

Cup was practically a Spanish saint, cut a particularly forlorn figure as he picked the ball out of the back of the net time after time. The Spanish defeats were as unexpected as they were heavy. Spain went into Brazil 2014 on a massive wave of expectation, both from home and abroad, where there was talk of them being able to successfully defend their title. At the very least Spain were expected to make the final, with purists anticipating a mouth watering clash with hosts Brazil. As always with football in Spain, you couldn’t escape the game in advance, with the stars of the national team appearing on seemingly every second television advertisement, billboard or branded on every conceivable product in your local supermarket. On the nights of the matches themselves every bar and restaurant was packed with noisy supporters, many in national team shirts and with their faces painted. But as the events unfolded and the goals flew in against Spain, the fans looked on in disbelief, many melting away into the night as defeat became inevitable. I drove home on the night of the defeat that saw Spain’s World Cup come to the end and the streets were uncannily quiet. Where four years before, fans had thronged the streets,

Barrios!”...“You live in two districts?” It’s a pinprick on the map in the Campo de Gibraltar no one has ever heard of, much less set out to find. Even the postal service has problems as there are two number 27s on our street – go figure – so I don’t often get mail. Unlike Marbella, they don’t wear high heels and pencil skirts here, except for weddings, funerals and Saturday

Jewel

BROKEN DREAMS: Distraught fans while (below) Casillas, the king, to abdicate in a week

honking their horns as they drove around in celebration, now the main roads were emp-

Begging for it I HAD a ‘never judge a book by its cover moment’ last week. I was doing the usual single-male last minute shop at one of those expensive supermarkets that opens every day of the year and ended up in the queue behind a very prim looking Madrid woman. She had a basket-full of what looked like a week’s shop-

nights, so I spend my days dressed like a campesina (peasant) if I even get out of my dressing gown. Dressing gowns are acceptable streetwear, though, when washing your step in the morning, as they do here. It’s sublimely Spanish and quintessentially campo. The local rooster and his sidekick, a hee-hawing donkey, get us up in the morning. Regular power blackouts see us to bed at unearthly hours. It’s not a wealthy town, but our three cats help boost the local economy or, rather, the local vet’s economy, requiring twice-daily insulin shots, special diets and regular fur-cuts. On the face of it, this petite pueblo perched on the southern tip of the Iberian peninsula hasn’t a lot going for it… The local beach, fringed with smoke-belching Cepsa chimneys, is hardly the stuff of holiday brochures (no one notices the wildlife reserve behind it) and the shopping centre is a sprawling industrial estate graced with its own ‘Twin Towers’ – the tallest office block in Andalucia.

ping, and being the impatient soul that I am, I made my unhappiness felt by tutting and sighing loudly. So you can imagine how much of a tosser I felt when she left the shop and gave most of her shopping bag to the amazed young Spanish girl who was begging on a blanket outside.

ty. La Roja and Spain’s dreams had been shattered.

The jewel in the crown was the town roundabout – modelled on a birthday cake, candles and all – until last month when it was demolished. We can’t wait to see what they put in its place! But look at it this way: Los Barrios lies at the crossroads of two continents (Africa and Europe); two Spanish Costas (Sol and Luz) and is the gateway to two seas – Atlantic and Mediterranean – and three ‘foreign’ nations – Morocco, Gibraltar and Portugal. That’s pretty central in my idea of the universe. Beyond the frumpy facade, this quirky Spanish pueblo frays at the edges into country lanes where a wild beauty sprouts from untamed hedgerows in a tangle of colour. Did you know that Los Barrios … • Boasts the most scenic rubbish tips in Spain, on the edge of Europe’s largest cork forest (Los Alcornocales) – a favourite diner for birds en route to Africa • Has one of Europe’s largest white stork colonies (if you’ve seen the size of stork droppings you’ll know why I wear a hat!) • Would have had the most high-tech bullring in Spain if the automatic roof worked. It doesn’t because the architect wasn’t paid, so he took away the motor • Unbelievably, Los Barrios has only 20 lines devoted to it on Wikipedia, so I’m going to add my own citation … from the centre of the universe!

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Open June to August

52 52 the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

SHARE: Hollie Rolla is passionate about helping others

Top Salud

Recognise, realise, re-align R ECOGNISE, realise, re-align. The simple mission statement of a new holistic rehabilitation programme called Recalibrate launching in

Spain. The founder, Hollie Rolla, was inspired to share her life experiences after turning her life around from what she calls a ‘brutal life or death wake up call,’ an attempted suicide that resulted in a six month coma. After this harrowing experience, Rolla, now based in Marbella, woke up determined to ‘find inner peace’ and end her self-destructive behaviours. Years of pouring over self-help books and travelling the world researching different healing techniques created in her a passion to help others, prompting her to found Re-

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PEACEFUL: Recalibrate’s Torox retreat

calibrate. Currently undertaking a PhD in Metaphysical Science, Rolla - who comes from Kent - is also a member of the International College of Holistic Medicine. Rolla’s philosophy for Recalibrate combines professional medicine knowledge with selfdiscovery practices in addressing negative behaviours, everything from low self-esteem to addiction. Recalibrate sponsors a variety of workshops and even individualised rehabilitation programmes, but is currently organising a four-day retreat in Jorox, in the Guadalhorce Valley, from July 16-19. To sign up for the retreat or to learn more about Recalibrate’s philosophy, visit their website: www.recalibrate-now.com

Healthcare hell

Clampdown on local health services for expats living in Spain By Imogen Calderwood

TOUGH new regulations could leave thousands of expats in Spain facing a ‘black hole’ of medical treatment. Changes in Spanish hospitals will deny many expats access to local healthcare services, while a simultaneous clampdown on ‘health tourism’ in the UK will also see them turned away by

the NHS. The hardest hit will be those who have taken early retirement and moved to

So are you covered? European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – gives British expats access to emergency medical treatment. However, it only gives access to services that are free to the country’s residents. In some cases, Brits will have to pay for treatment that would be free on the NHS. Residual S1 form – expats who are unem-

Spain. Until now, expats who have signed a residual S1 form have been entitled to medi-

ployed or have taken early retirement should apply for one of these. It will ensure free healthcare for 30 months. S1 form – the equivalent form for those who have reached state pension age. Insurance – private medical insurance is an option. Different policies are available which will either pay for treatment in a local hospital, or for treatment in the UK.

‘Jaw-dropping’ strike against cancer A NEW drug has rocked the medical world after seemingly curing a man of skin cancer. Doctors say trials of the drug Pembrolizumab are ‘jaw-dropping’ and could help fight other forms of cancer. The ‘immunotherapy’ drug was tested on melanoma patients because their survival rates are so low. It works by allowing the immune system to attack cancer cells as normal. One-year survival rates for skin cancer are just 10% for men and 35% for women, but in the trial of 411 patients, 69% were still alive one year after starting immunotherapy treatment. The ‘cured’ patient – a 40-year-old British

Miracle-drug ‘cures’ skin cancer patient

man – has seen his tumours almost vanish with no sign of returning after six months of treatment. The treatment, which will be now trialed in Spain as well, was administered at the Royal Free Hospital in North London. “Pembrolizumab looks like it has potential to be a paradigm shift for cancer therapy and is firmly helping to establish immunotherapy as one of the most exciting and promising treatment modalities in recent years,” said his consultant, Dr David Chao.

cal treatment in Spain, with costs covered by the UK treasury. However, this ‘residual’ cover is being withdrawn on July 1. Those who signed their S1 forms before this date will be covered, but only until the form expires – a maximum of 30 months. Those returning from Spain must be residents in the UK for six months before receiving NHS services. Although in place for several years, this rule has only recently been strictly enforced due to budget cuts in the NHS.

Lottery

Director of expat medical insurance company ALC Health, Andrew Apps, said: “As is often the case it is a bit of a postcode lottery, with some health authorities being tougher than others. “Much will depend on what treatment you need, how long you have lived abroad and how good you are at pleading your case.” Hospitals in Spain will now demand evidence that residents have paid into the local tax system or have sufficient insurance in place prior to treatment.

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014 5353

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Beating the blood-suckers Plug-ins

The Olive Press offers its tips to beat the mozzies

IT’S an unavoidable fact of summer – with the heat, out come the mosquitoes. Nasty insects that sometimes carry diseases such as Chiken gunya, they can ruin a weekend or a holiday. Luckily, there is a huge range of mosquito-repelling products on the market, from the chemical to the natural and with varying degrees of success. Here, the Olive Press gives you all you need to know about protecting yourself against the winged-nasties this season.

Chemical

Deet is a very reliable and highly effective insect repellent that has been in use since 1957. It is sold under many different brand names and in many different forms,

including lotion and spray. Concentrations of Deet range from around 5% all the way up to 100%, with a stronger percentage in general meaning the insects will be repelled for longer. But any concentration higher than about 50% doesn’t offer significantly more protection, and 10 to 30% will provide sufficient protection for almost every scenario. It is generally recommended to use less than 10% concentration on children, and never on children under five. There have been complaints of minor skin and eye irritation, but as long as you use it in moderate concentrations and according to directions, it is considered safe. Permethrin is another effective repellent but is meant for clothing rather than skin. It can last for at least two weeks – even through washes. Advertorial

There are a variety of repellents available that plug directly into wall sockets. Some varieties emit a vapour that has an effect much like that of the chemical sprays and lotions, offering a hassle-free way to dodge the mozzies. Another variety is advertised as electronic ultrasound gadgets, which emit a high-frequency buzz designed to repel mosquitos without the need for chemical sprays and lotions. The buzzing sound - undetectable to the human ear - is at the same frequency as the mosquito’s natural enemy, the dragonfly. While many online reviews suggest users have had success with these electronic repellents, official studies claim the science behind them is unproven. In 10 field studies, including one by the BBC, scientists found they had ‘no effect on preventing mosquito bites’ and ‘should not be recommended or used’.

Natural

There are natural products which can be as effective as chemical repellents. Oil of lemon eucalyptus is found naturally in eucalyptus leaves and twigs. This oil provides the same protection as a lower percentage

Expert and quick professional care is just a short flight away

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With regular flights from Malaga and Alicante to Exeter, you could be here in less than 3 hours. We offer a comprehensive Health Care Service including: Orthopaedics | Cosmetic Treatments Laser & Cataract Surgery Varicose Veins Surgery Physiotherapy | Radiology You couldn’t be in better hands. 2

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NUFFIELD Health Exeter Hospital is a leading private hospital in Devon, England, conveniently located just five miles from Exeter Airport, which has regular direct flights to southern Spain. Its dedicated staff and consultants offer rapid access to expert treatment and personalised care. The Nuffield Health Self-Pay Promise guarantees transparent, all-inclusive pricing, price matching and unlimited aftercare (subject to terms and conditions). The hospital specialises in orthopaedic surgery, building on Exeter’s international reputation in the field. Some of the UK’s top orthopaedic surgeons practise there, providing the very best care to those undergoing hip, knee, spine, shoulder, foot and ankle operations. The hospital also boasts Exeter Heart, comprising five Consultant Cardiologists and one Consultant Cardiac Surgeon; delivering specialist expertise in coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders, hypertension, heart muscle disorders and valvular heart disease. In addition, Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital has a team of highly trained and trusted consultant plastic surgeons who provide the full range of cosmetic surgical procedures. With 120 consultants from over 30 specialties, Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital offers minimally invasive procedures to correct eyesight problems, varicose veins and gynaecological or gastrointestinal disorders and much, much more. It is supported by state of the art in-house radiology, pathology, pharmacy, physiotherapy and well-being services. Visit www.nuffieldhealth.com/ hospitals/exeter or call Debbie on 00 44 1392 241856

19/06/2014 12:44

Deet product, but again shouldn’t be used on children under five. Other natural repellents include citronella, geranium, basil, garlic and peppermint. Sabinillas-business woman Anna Cockell has come up with a popular and effective homemade repellent. “I’ve spent the last three years developing and perfecting my recipe, and it really is very effective,” said Anna, who runs Gala Puro natural products. “Now I sit with the repellent on my skin and wait to see how the mosquitoes react. They land, but one whiff of it and they certainly don’t bite.” For more information email galapuro@telefonica.net, or call Anna on 677 652 043.

DO’S AND DONT’S FOR DEET DO:

Use sprays to treat skin and clothing, for an even application. Use liquids, creams and sticks for precision applications. Wash Deet-covered skin with soap and water. Keep insect repellents out of reach of children.

DON’T:

Apply to eyes, lips or mouths, or over cuts, wounds or irritated skin. Over-apply to skin, or saturate clothing. Apply to skin beneath clothing, or skin that isn’t exposed. Apply more often than recommended on the product level. ”Anna’s mozzie repellent has done the business! It does exactly what she said it does and I have had no bites at all since applying it.” Sharon Peterson, Estepona.

54 the The Olive olive press Press’ - June 25- July 9 2014 54

549 the olive press - June 25 - July www.theolivepress.es

monthly youth and education section

38 57

treme

University challenged Epic waterfights, celeb parties and dance routines herald end of term at BSM, writes Headteacher Miss Kirkham

PLASH Day is an annual event that both teachers and children look forward to with a cheeky smile. In the ‘calm before the storm’, as foundation stage pupils poured into to the playground in swimming costumes, armed to the teeth with water balloons, pistols and buckets, there was an uneasy silence. As some tumbleweed breezed through the silent playground, the whistle was blown and Splash Day began. In the ensuing shenanigans Spanish teacher Miss Irissarri was taken down in an onslaught of water balloon bombardment, while a bucket of cold water was mercilessly unleashed on the head of an unsuspecting Miss Yarwood. There were a number of competitions once everyone had been thoroughly splashed, including hitting letter targets

School’s out for Summer

CHEEKY GRINS: Term ends with a bang

with super-soakers and a bucket carrying race, won by the Norman House team. With temperatures rising, it was once again time for the Summer Fair in the school grounds. A glamorous affair as always, Marbella’s glitterati ditched events such as Nikki Beach’s White Party in favour of our shindig. Door staff on the school gates had a bulging VIP list, but many wellheeled types had to be turned away despite having queued all night,

such was the demand to be snapped at our annual fundraiser. The end of term also saw budding thespians from Primary perform their summer production ‘Move It’. Based around the relationship of a brother and sister in opposing dance crews, the youngsters wowed their families and friends with dance routines and catchy songs, under the direction of Miss Graham who ensured a sellout performance to finish the

DELAYS in state-sponsored grants have left many Spanish students unsure of how to budget for their university education. Spain’s education boss Montserrat Gomendio claims Catalunya – late for reporting student data – was to blame for these delays. The newly-reformed grant system was intended to help students from poorer backgrounds with tuition, living,

Data delay causes student grant grief By Carey Camel

and transportation costs. However, Education Minister José Ignacio Wert has now split the grant system into two parts: one based on a family’s income and the other based

on variable information, such as students’ grades and applicant volume. The new system means greater insecurity for those applying for grants and hard-up students will on average receive €300 less than in previous years. Student bodies insist the delays and cutbacks have seen students resorting to bank loans or dropping-out entirely.

Back to school, minister PRIME Minister Mariano Rajoy could not pass a school-level English test – according to a recent survey of English teachers in Spain. Of the teachers questioned by the Cambridge University

Press (CUP), 75% believe Rajoy would even fail a primary school English test. However, Rajoy – who refuses free English lessons – is not alone. More than 90% of those sur-

English struggling too

FAILINGS in education systems leave English students ignorant of their own language and incapable of learning new ones, a former Oxford tutor has claimed. According to a British-born professor at America’s University of Notre Dame, English university students’ lack of grammar knowledge hampers their ability to learn other languages.

LACKING: Rajoy veyed believe Spanish politicians to be linguistically lacking, with 88% claiming they have the worst English in the EU. CUP spokesperson Julio Redondas believes that a historical and cultural resistance to learning new languages can explain this ministerial shortcoming.

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CONSTRUCTION

55 To place your classified, please 55 call 951 127 006 or email admin@theolivepress.es the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

More growth

New sections in Olive Press Classifieds include a Lonely Hearts column and Electrical, Drainage and Air Conditioning sections

W MB HORMIGO

We are a leading building and construction company based in Estepona. We cover all aspects of construction from residential building, extensions on all types of dwellings, swimming pools, patios, under pinning, roofing, retaining walls, interior reformation to public works such as the construction of offices, streets, shops and much more.

WE GUARANTEE ALL OUR WORK At M.B. Hormigo we are committed to providing a reliable, professional, trustworthy service and have the experience, staff and equipment to complete any project, on time, on budget and with a friendly reliable service.

Please call Manolo or Chris on 639 210 266 or

952 79 84 84

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BLOCKED DRAINS?

TEL: 952 568 414 661 910 772 NO CALL OUT CHARGE HP Jetting - Root Removal CCTV Survey - Insurance Claims

24/7 CALL OUT Drain-tech Solutions COAST & INLAND

elcome to the continually growing Olive Press classifieds section. Due to unprecedented growth it is now up to three pages and we are adding new sections each issue to keep up with growth. Proven to be a fantastic – and good value way – to sell and market your business, the Olive Press is now read by over 200,000 people each month, via both its paper and website edition. From just 5.50 euros, you can sell your car, your bedpost or your child’s old bike thanks to our healthy and growing group of readers. And for businesses this is a vital resource for being seen and being taken seriously. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with your queries on 951127006 or 655825683 And to celebrate in our growth we are making a very special launch offer: Take 3 months

of classifieds (7 issues) and get 3 issues free. In other words take a single box advert for 39 euros, pay 273 euros and get a total of 10 issues – or five months cover for your business. Whether you sell insurance, fix cars or run a transport company, can you afford NOT to take up this offer? Please call our new classifieds boss Sarah Adams, who has many years experience in media sales. She will be only too happy to help you through the process. Once again the number to call is 951127006 or 655825683

TRANSPORT

Affordable and proffesional local removals within Andalucia Removals to and from UK (Incl. Eire and Scotland) Portugal and France Storage facilities in UK and Spain. Worldwide shipping service Haulage contracts Free insurance and friendly no obligation quotes please call or email

952 452 099 / 952 455 623 / 697 681 334

www.fastcatsl.com - email: info@fastcatsl.com

DAVID DALE REMOVALS International Removals & Storage

Tel: 965 328 135 Mob: 618 048 470 British Association of Removers If you’re moving, look for the badge.

• Established for more than 35 years • Removals full & part loads in the UK & Europe • Door to door service UK - Spain 50 weeks of the year • Container storage in professionally packed containers • Storage facilities comprising modern secure alarmed warehousing • Experienced piano & antique removals • Car & motor cycle transporters • Online quotations Members of British Association of Removers

Contact us via email: david@daviddale.co.uk Or write to us at Unit 3, Langby Ind Est, Milby Road, Boroughbridge, YO51 9BW.

Website www.daviddale.co.uk

Get your company seen here from just 25 € per issue

Motorhomes - Caravans Boats - Cars & Vans Delivery & Collection available Short Term - Long Term Established 15 years Safe & Secure - 24hr CCTV

679 786 669 - Alan - 606 101 807 www.eurodog.es - Email - info@eurodog.es

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FOOD & DRINK

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To place your classified, please call 951 127 006 or email admin@theolivepress.es

cars/motoring/transport

THE MOBILITY WIZARD. The only company in southern Spain that specialises in repairing and maintaining mobility scooters, power chairs and mobility products. Authorised repair agents for most European manufacturers. Most repairs carried out at your place of residence, batteries analysed and replaced if needed, tyres supplied and fitted. Summer’s coming, has your mobility scooter been serviced lately? Full service and inspection at your home for just €60. Large selection of mobility scooters available for sale and rent, no deposit required and free delivery. We also offer roadside assistance, we will come to your rescue if you’re unfortunate enough to have a breakdown or puncture, keep this number handy! Tel 633 127 901 / www.mobilityspain.com / info@mobilityspain.com

UNWaNted or SCrap CarS Free Collection

misc SERVICES

FOR SALE Offering tailor made Ex-Pat solutions: Car transfers / Re-plating NIE / Residencia Translations Utility phonecalls & much, much more!

Good, Bad, Or Ugly

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Malaga Airport

Secure INDOOR parking Special

YEARLY Parking Offer Pay for one year and get 2 additional months free !

Helle Hollis Parking, Avda. García Morato nº 18, Málaga Airport

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insurance

2006 Renault Kangoo estate. Diesel 1900cc. 4x4. Current ITV. 190.442 km. Good condition. 3,800€. To view phone 951 127 006 (office hours)

I BUY ANY CAR UK OR Spanish any price cash

Contact Katie katie@breakingspain.com 616686732 / 951273696 www.breakingspain.com

Spanish economist with thirty years experience of negotiating with Banks and bureaucrats, offers her services to English-speaking expats who require expert and sympathetic help in understanding Spanish communications and documentation and assistance with taking appropriate action. Speaks fluent English and is based in Malaga province. Reasonable rates.

Contact Maria on

629186931

Mobile vehicle airconditioning, gas recharge, etc

602 533 508 mikewallsp@gmail.com

furniture

electrician ELECTRICIAN

All aspects of electrical work covered

MOBILE HAIRDRESSER

Domestic and industrial Fault finding, full re-wires, Boletins, etc...

Cut about the rest Ladies, Gentlemen and Children of all ages Blowdry, Shampoo/Set, Colours, Perms, ‘Cuts a specialty’

Call Gilly 0034 952 89 30 23 or 0034 658 67 50 77

651 395 597 952 599 019 Call anytime

FOOD AND DRINK

Doña Copetta

Wine Shop and Delicatessan Order your favourite wine best quality & prices distribution from Torremolinos to Sotogrande CAN’T FIND THAT WINE? Wine searching service available Personalised Labels

Tel: 687 880 199 - 952 817 265 Email: lauracopetta@hotmail.es

PEST CONTROL

Blinds awnings and shade

SUNSHINE TOLDOS

All types of awning and blinds

Installed or fixed Manual/electric Will travel inland No deposit/cash on delivery Call John on 952467783 680323969

WINDOW TINTING AND BLINDS

We tint: cars, mobile homes, offices, conservatories, patio doors, glass curtains, glazed balconies. Also, Solar Blinds that maintain the view, reflect heat, and insulate during winter. For more information contact: 958 496 571 - 644 546 176

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Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms

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65 cents per word. Minimum charge based on 10 words per issue and a minimum of 2 issues. IVA not included All ads include the first 2 words in bold. For all text in bold add 25% Display boxes Single column display box 38€ per issue

Double column display box 54€ per issue Three column display box 75€ per issue Full name and passport or NIE number must be provided when advertisements are placed. All ads must be paid prior to publication

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Launching our new Lonely Hearts column

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

LONELY HEARTS- are you lonely? help is at hand Outgoing, active, young graduate, early 20s recently moved to the coast, looking for someone to share my love of the region. Contact me on tompowell0423@gmail. com

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the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

www.theolivepress.es FOOD & DRINK with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

INFAMOUS: The cast of TOWIE at La Sala and (inset) Bobby Cole Norris sporting the ‘shlong thong’

Champagne and budgie-smugglers THE only way was La Sala by the Sea as the TOWIE cast partied hard in Marbella. Thankfully cast member Bobby Cole Norris put away his now infamous ‘budgie-smuggling’ swimming trunks for a night out at the restaurant. Puerto Banus’ favourite bijou beach club featured in the The only way is Marbs special, the second part of which is on television this week.

Cast members lounged on sunbeds, sipped Laurent Perrier and cocktails, and let it all hang out on their annual sojourn to the Costa del Sol sun. The infamous ITV show made its comeback on Sunday, with one of two hour-long specials filmed in Marbella. The next episode will be aired today (Wednesday), at 10pm.

CHEERS: Sterling and OxladeChamberlain join Bentley

Footy to foodie LA Sala restaurant group is keeping its fingers crossed for a better summer than the English footballers who have invested in it. Internationals Raheem Sterling and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are both shareholders in the group that is set to open three new restaurants in the London area this year. They will hopefully now be on hand to spend some time promoting the group, now that England have crashed out of the World Cup in the group stages. Meanwhile, fellow shareholder, footballer David Bentley has retired at the age of 29 to focus on the business. Once hailed as ‘the next Beckham’, the former Tottenham midfielder claimed football has become ‘robotic and boring’. “I’ve fallen out of love with the game,” he admitted. “The social media and the money have made it boring, predictable and a bit too calculated.”

Do you remember KONTIKI on the El Chorro lakes? On the shore of green lake Guadalhorce. Good news is open again. You can enjoy beautiful views over a best chicken curry and sip cold Cobra beer. Open from Thursday till Sunday. Directon: From restaurant Kiosko on the El Chorro lakes 2.5 km towards Valle de Abdalajis - Antequera. Tel: 679742761

www.theolivepress.es FOOD & DRINK

with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Hotelier and Hoteli-HER

Constructive feedback

When you are involved every day sometimes it is hard to step back, and you can miss things that are blindingly obvious. So please, trust me. We do our very best to listen to our guests, and we appreciate the feedback. Reacting to the comments we receive helps us to develop our new initiatives. But I do have a bee in my bonnet. “We stayed one night and were disappointed not to meet the owners.” So what goes through this person’s mind? You want to visit a place where E ask everyone to fill in a the owners are there 24 hours questionnaire at the end a day, seven days a week? of their stay or their meal – We have brilliant staff and they whether it’s their first visit or will do all they can to make you their 50th. And we really do feel welcome and to deal with want the truth! every possible issue you may For example, we recently had a have. I am very committed to group of Glaswegians come up my job, but I do want a life too. on the train for lunch, one of My daughters are part of the whom left the comment : generation that’s going to be “Beautiful setting, but the leaves making decisions about our and insects falling on the food world very soon. were a wee bit disturbing! ” I don’t want them thinking that And from a large group meal it’s not worth looking after their we read: “Delicious main old folks because they were course – but shame the plates never there for them because were cold ” ALL SMILES NOW: they were working all of their Or from a couple’s first visit : Waitress Patri lives. “The terrace and food were exquisite but the waitress needed day: “I’d rather die than com- Please understand that hoteplain!” Spaniards on the other liers and restaurateurs are huto smile more ” If you tell us the truth straight hand will generally tell us the man (ED: Certainly on the golf course Andy), and we need to away, we can act on it and sort minute something’s wrong. out the problems. But some Please remember : comments have occasional priorities outpeople find it so difficult - par- are positive – complaints are side of our business lives. ticularly us Brits. A very good negative. Thank you for your of oursLocal saidIssue the 5other Localfriend issue 46:The 5/13/14comments! 10:54 PM Page 104 E love getting feedback from our guests. We ask for it and we get it! Every day there is something to think about and, being positive, there is always scope for improvement. The rooms, the food, the gardens, the service … there are always things we can improve and our guests see things far more clearly than we can.

Fill in the questionaire

Hotel - Bar - Restaurante. Bda Estacion s/n, 29370 Benaojan, Malaga. 952 16 71 51 - 952 16 79 27 . info@molinodelsanto.com

The €5.00 Lunch

WOULD YOU LIKE Advertorial

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

GREAT DEALS AT ANDALUCIA’S

BEST HOTEL? 7000 subscribers can’t be wrong! By our Benaoján Correspondent

t’s easy for you to get the best deals at the hotel and restaurant that has just been voted the Best in Andalucia.

Molino del Santo knows that the most important person to look after is you, the customer, and we want to offer our best customers the very best conditions. So if you are a member of our newsletter group, then you will ALWAYS beneﬁt from a discount on a stay at the hotel. What will persuade you that Molino del Santo is the place for you to visit? The peace? The comfortable rooms? The relaxing atmosphere? The food? The location? The gardens? The Mill stream? The whole experience?

__________________________ “The Food is Better than Ever” Peter W – 15th June 2014 __________________________

Hotel Molino del Santo Best of Andalucia

50 Free Gifts waiting to be sent amongest the ﬁrst 50 to do so, we’ll send you a gift to say thank you. You’ll also receive reduced rates on our hotel rooms and we’ll make sure you have extra special service when you next visit. Simply go to our website and sign up for our newsletter.

Tame yourThere hunger! are 50 free gifts waiting to have new

Sign up for our newsletters - by e-mail or post - and you’ll hear about special events like cookery courses, upliting talks from experts in their ﬁeld, our changing menus, free guided walks and special last minute offers that we make from time to time. All of this in addition to a great place to share time with people who matter to you.

__________________________ “I dream about Molino del Santo so often” Nikki R 16th June 2014 __________________________

Go to www.molinodelsanto.com now.

homes as well as an extra special bonus for everyone who joins our newsletter group. Prefer to receive our newsletters by mail? Send us your postal address and it will be done.

Don’t miss out on the place that everyone is talking about SIGN UP NOW FOR OUR NEWSLETTER AND YOUR FREE GIFT www.molinodelsanto.com or call 952 16 71 51 if you’d prefer to talk to someone

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Please mention The Local when responding to advertisements

“THORTS” OF A HOTEL DOG BY EDDIE DOGG I’m going through a good patch left-over mixed paella for supper tonight. No whole Langoustines - the diners ate those but I don’t complain. They’re really hard to peel anyway... the langoustines, not the diners. I can’t quite see the point of clams in a paella myself but something makes the food really good here. My boss says that clams add to the ﬂavour - they’re just shells I can’t eat. What is Trip Advisor anyway?

Follow Eddie’s regular thoughts on our Facebook page – Hotel Molino del Santo

www.molinodelsanto.com | info@molinodelsanto.com | 952 16 71 51

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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There’s even an app for that...

SPANISH olive oil can now be at your fingertips with a new app about Spain’s leading food product. ‘Experiencias Aceites de Oliva de España’, the app was created by the Span-

RESTAURANT - MIJAS PUEBLO

ish Olive Oil Association to provide users with insight into the multitude of single-variety oils – those

CLOSED MONDAYS.

La Alcazaba, Plaza de la Constitución, Mijas.

For Information & Reservations: Tel. 952 590 253 - 952 486 397 Email. alcazabadamijas@gmail.com www.rest-laalcazabademijas.com

plan your next dinner party with its pairing suggestions and tasting notes for each type of oil.

There’s even a large recipe collection with a wide variety of dishes to choose from.

True taste of summer FOODIES of Estepona had their first taste of summer at Neli G’s cafe bar this week. Owners Lisa and Neville Gaffney welcomed more than 50 guests to their Taste of Summer party at the Benavista-based bar. Welcoming guests with Pimms and elderflower, the party was an excellent opportunity to show off the newly extended premises. “The concept behind extending into the neighbouring space was to give us more opportunities to host private parties and ladies’ lunches, while not disturbing our regular clientele,” explained Lisa, who manages front of house. Teasers for the new evening included sweet

No naval gazing Celebrate your private parties or business lunches with us in our Mozarabic room, whilst enjoying our breathtaking panoramic view.

made with only one kind of olive – throughout the country. The app can also help you

DUBLIN recently hosted the Spanish navy training ship Juan Sebastian Elcano with a special wine tasting onboard. Many distinguished guests attended, including top Irish food critics and TV personalities as well as Spanish ambassador to Ireland Javier Garrigues. Even Elcano’s captain Enrique Torres Pinyero participated in the festivities, which included wines and Sherries and, of course, tapas. The tasting was part of a series of promotional events celebrating the Spanish navy training ship’s current tour.

DISHY: And not just the food spicy and sticky chicken wings, tempura prawns with mango and pineapple salsa, and oreo and amaretto milkshakes. Neli G’s will stay open until 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays from July 11. For reservations call 952 928 576, or visit www.neligs.com

International Tapas and Bistro style menu

smoothies • sandwiches fresh cakes • tapas facebook.com/lemon sotogrande

Open: 9.00am to midnight.

Or join us in the bar at: The Hairy Lemon Puerto Deportivo 11310 Sotogrande Tel: 956790124

www.theolivepress.es

FOOD & DRINK with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Spain continues to dominate the lists of Europe’s best restaurants By Carey Camel A QUARTER of Europe’s best restaurants are Spanish, according to a popular US food website. No less than five of the top 20 restaurants in Europe are in Spain, according to popular food blog Opinionated About Dining (OAD). Spain’s highest placed restaurant is last year’s winner Quique Dacosta in Denia, which comes in third, while 41 Degrees Experience, in Barcelona, comes in fourth.

Viva Espana TALENT: Team at El Celler de Can Roca and (below) Quique Dacosta

Influential

Also in the top 20 are El Celler de Can Roca in Girona (13th), Sant Pau in Sant Pol del Mar (14th), and Azurmendi in Larrabetzu (19th). The only other country to compete with Spain in the Top 100. However, the continent’s best restaurant this year is apparently Belgium’s In De Wulf, closely followed by Troisgros in France. But readers beware! The OAD chart is based on surveys submitted by diners rather than professional food critics, so chefs and promoters who encourage voting via social media play a large role in these rankings. Furthermore, the surveys submitted by faithful OAD contributors are weighted

more than others, meaning the opinion of those who dine out more often is more influential in deciding who comes out on top. Compare it to the San Pel-

legrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants lists – a ranking decided by actual food critics from around the world – and you will find Spain’s El Celler de Can Roca as number two

on their list, just behind Noma in Copenhagen. Spain has three restaurants in the Top 20 Best Restaurants in the World for the Pellegrino awards.

Advertorial

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the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

the olive press - June 25- July 9 2014

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Brotherly grub Michelin-starred Adria brothers to ‘serve up to 1,000 diners a day’ in new Ibiza eatery

SPANISH super-chefs the Adria brothers have announced they will be opening up a new restaurant in Ibiza next year. The hedonistic par ty island is becoming a food capital, with Paco Roncero recently opening Sublimotion at the Hard Rock Ibiza, where dinner sets you back €1,500.

Fun fair

Ferran Adria was formerly the head chef at the three Michelin-starred El Bulli restaurant on the Costa Brava, while brother Albert runs the Michelin-starred Tickets in Barcelona.

BROTHERS IN ARMS: Albert and Ferran will be charing 1,500 euros a head The brothers’ new venture is set to be in the Casino de Ibiza on the beachfront,

and will be an ‘international and multidisciplinary affair’.

Roman result ANDALUCIA’S most eccentric restaurant The Roman Oasis will be opening on July 1 for an incredible 35th season. Near the celebrated Roman baths, La Hedionda, in Casares, hence the name, the summer barbeque restaurant is well-known on the coast for its delicious food and delightfully quirky decor. A full-size cannon, a skeleton that lights up when you walk past and a King Arthur’s sword wedged in one of the tables are all part of the bizarre world of owner Paul Hickling. Once the stomping ground of TV chef Keith Floyd, (this was his favourite restaurant in Spain) The Roman Oasis should not be missed. Guests dine in a charming courtyard under the stars, and are entertained and looked after by Paul, easily one of the coast’s most ebullient and amusing hosts.

BIZARRE: Evening meal at The Roman Oasis

While they claim it will not charge ‘elitist prices’, it is still going to be a great deal more than just a restaurant. Open for six months a year, they hope to serve 1,000 people a day in a spectacular interactive environment. “It will be a cultural-artistic funfair for adults,” said Albert Ferran, who did not give much else away.

the olive press - June 25 - July 9 2014

Mosquito Screens Call

Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 Repsol discovery SPAIN’S Repsol has made one of the largest oil discoveries of recent years, in Siberia. The find could produce upwards of 240 million barrels of oil.

FINAL WORDS

Coach pardon DESPITE Spain’s quick World Cup elimination, Spanish football federation (RFEF) has no intention of getting rid of coach Vicente del Bosque.

Maya service AMERICANS in Madrid will remember writer, feminist and racial activist Maya Angelou, in a memorial service at Casa de America on June 30.

Gotta catch ‘em all POLICE corruption crackdown effort, Operation Pokemon, has captured its latest victim: Jose Manuel Rey Varela - the mayor of Ferrol in Galicia - on bribery charges.

the

Covering Andalucia in 2014 with over 200,000 papers EE (130,000 digital) and around 300,000 visits to the R F website each month… The Olive Press just keeps growing!

olive press

Telephone: 951127006

June 25 - July 9 2014

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Everything’s gone green A SPANISH dog has given birth to two bright green puppies. The colourful puppies were both significantly weaker than the rest of the litter. According to owner Aida Vallelado Molina, 27, the female puppy died shortly after birth, and the male is fighting for life, while slowly losing his green tinge. “I thought the puppies were dirty and tried to clean them, but the colour wouldn’t come off,” added Vallelado, from Valladolid. Local vet Daniel Valverde is investigating why the puppies were born green. In 2012 a golden Labrador in the UK gave birth to a greentinged puppy named ‘Hulk’.

DIVINE INTERVENTION: Oliveros before and after

Change of habit

Stop being gay!

EUROPE’S biggest department store has caused uproar by stocking three controversial books about how to cure homosexuality. The books – I want to Stop Being Gay, How to Prevent Homosexuality and Gender

Critics come out as El Corte Ingles stocks ‘medieval’ manuals claiming to ‘cure’ homosexuality Confusion in Childhood – have been met with outrage and disgust since going on

Kobe fails to weave any Spanish magic HE might be a huge force to reckon with in American basketball terms. But sadly, Kobe Bryant was unable to help the Spanish football team when he watched their first World Cup game against the Netherlands. Bryant sat in the stands with Spanish fans and without any of the celebrity fanfare you might expect. Here’s hoping Bryant doesn’t run into USA coach Jurgen Klinsmann, who scoffed at the recent €35.3 million ($48 million) contract extension the NBA star recently received. But more importantly, who is Kobe going to root for now that Spain is out?

sale in El Corte Ingles. The author is Joseph Nicolosi, American psychologist and founder of the National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality. Twitter users compared the books to ‘medieval heresy’ and ‘the Spanish Inquisition’. “Spain has come a long way in terms of legal rights for gays, but on a social scale

there’s still plenty to do,” said Uge Sangil, education coordinator for Spain’s LGBT state federation. “It’s not just the parents and the children who have to learn about sexual diversity and tolerance, the country’s education system and the people behind it need to promote these values.”

A TOP model has quit the catwalk to become a nun. Olalla Oliveros made the decision after God asked her to ‘follow him’. The model, who is also an actress, has swapped designer outfits and a luxury lifestyle for a sackcloth, veil and earlymorning prayers at the Order of Saint Michael. Oliveros – now known as Sister Olalla del Si de Maria – experienced an ‘earthquake’ moment during a visit to The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal. The 36-year-old told the National Catholic Register she found her visions strange at first but could not shake the image of herself dressed as a nun. “The Lord is never wrong. He asked if I will follow him, and I could not refuse,” she added.

Cats ‘flea’ the scene

A SCHOOL in Andalucia has been closed for several days due to a flea infestation. Students’ lunchtime-leftovers at the Miguel Fortes Fortes College in Benamargosa are believed to have attracted feral cats to the campus, which led to the invasion.

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