COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL EDITION
TRAVEL THE WORLD
FROM YOUR SOFA
ISSUE 248 • APRIL 2020
ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING
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MARVEL AT THE BEAUTY OF SPRING
COPING WITH
LONELINESS
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D THE SPOTLIGHT
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essential essential magazine® marbella
MARBELLA
TO CLICK
d THE STYLE
VISIT
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HOT NEW VIDEO GAMES FOOD TRENDS
AND GREAT WINES
LOCAL SOLIDARITY
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b THE GOURMET
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contents THE ESSENTIAL
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10 Publisher’s Letter 18 Home Doctor 26 ECI What’s Hot Helpline
GO TO THE SPOTLIGHT
38 Virtual Travel 54 Spring In Andalucía 66 Ford Mustang Bullitt 2020 74 Reading For The Lockdown 78 Hot New Video Games 84 What’s Cool
GO TO THE STYLE 92 Benalús 104 Top Soundbars 108 Aestheticons 116 Alexander Mcqueen’s Spring/Summer Collection 126 Fashion Focus 128 Toys For Pets
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GO TO THE SPA 132 Vitamin C 138 Coping With Loneliness 142 Useful Breathing Techniques 148 Organic Beauty Products
GO TO THE PRO
152 Real De La Quinta 158 Aedas Homes 164 Finance – Know Your Client + Brexit 172 Enterprise 183 Vibe
GO TO THE GOURMET
78 104
188 Food Trends 190 Le Poisson D'Avril 194 Gourmet Bytes 198 Hacienda de Colchado Olive Oil 204 Tempranillo Wine
GO TO THE STARS For April
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LOS FLAMINGOS - BENAHAVÍS
2.480.000€
Tel. (+34) 951 615 372 | info@otero.com.es | www.otero.com.es Revista Otero Lux.indd 3
26/02/2020 13:29:43
5 BEDS / 6 BATH LUXURY VILLA WITH AMAZING SEA VIEWS
Revista Otero Lux.indd 4
26/02/2020 13:29:44
VIDEO AVAILABLE iPhone IOS 11: open camera. Others download ‘QR Code Reader’ app
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
Built: 267 m²
Terraces: 133 m²
Price: € 1,490,000
SIERRA BLANCA Contemporary home with panoramic sea views, set in an exclusive, gated development. Ref. ES11566
Regulated by RICS
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 5
Built: 382 m²
Plot: 513 m²
Price: € 2,350,000
GOLDEN MILE Contemporary-style south-facing villa in one of the most exclusive gated communities in Las Lomas del Marbella Club. Ref. ES11504
SINCE 1970
Offices on Marbella’s Golden Mile at Puente Romano and opposite the Marbella Club hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es
D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER
O
n behalf of the
team
who have prepared this issue
while working from home, we
your pets. Find out about Top Food Trends,
Multi Award-Winning Olive Oil, and why
hope that it finds you well and in good
Tempranillo Wines are so popular. Relive
spirits. As we cannot distribute a printed
Steve McQueen’s San Francisco car
edition currently, we have striven to
chase scene with the new Ford Mustang
deliver a much enhanced digital version
Bullitt 2020 and see What’s Cool in Spain
of the magazine to divert, entertain and
and further afield.
inform you in these troubled times. Our reader-friendly layouts include
Many companies and individuals are coming up with benevolent measures
dynamic features on Virtual Travel,
to help people in times of need and we
Spring in Andalucía, Alexander
report on a number of these laudable
McQueen’s latest collection, and the
initiatives.
opulence of Benalús on Marbella’s Golden Mile. To empower you through these difficult days, please see our articles on
Who knows how long the lockdown will last and when we will be able to begin to resume our lives as before? One thing seems certain however, that
HomeDoctor, Loneliness, Useful Breathing by then humanity will have undergone a Techniques, and El Corte Inglés’ What’s
fundamental transformation, presenting
Hot Helpline. We also present hot new
us with an opportunity to behave in a
video games guaranteed to transport you
more caring and compassionate way,
to other worlds, books to engross yourself
both for our fellow earth dwellers and for
in, soundbars to make your viewing
the planet itself.
experience exemplary, and toys to occupy
STAY WELL AND STAY SAFE!
HOME IS THE STARTING PLACE OF
LOVE, HOPE AND DREAMS
Río Real Golf
Offered at absolutely the lowest price in this most demanded new residential community of “La Finca de Marbella” in Río Real, next to the future luxury Four Seasons Resort and the beautiful Río Real Golf, this stylish home was completed at the end of 2018 and blends to perfection fresh modern architecture with Mediterranean lifestyle, to enjoy interior and exterior living in this prime location. The sleek lines combined with large glass elements characterise this residence with its bright open spaces, contemporary design and high quality
finishes. The living areas, with floor to ceiling windows, integrate the outdoor terraces with the open plan interiors and allow beautiful views over the garden and swimming pool area. On the ground floor, next to the living area, is situated one bedroom suite, while the other two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms are on the upper floor of the property, as well as a spectacular terrace with panoramic views to the sea. 3 beds, 3 baths. Built 329 m2, plot 800 m2. E&V ID: W-02IA07. Price: 1.595.000 €.
El Rosario Shop: 952 832 040 · www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella
Marbella Hill Club
This is one of the finest homes on the Golden Mile offering the best of modern Andalusian style! Set on one of the finest elevated plots, affording breathtaking panoramic sea and mountain views in the prestigious community of Marbella Hill Club, just a few minutes away from the beach and all the amenities of the Golden Mile, this residence is built to perfection, offering the best of modern living in a unique, elegant, Andalusian style. This exceptional home is part of a completely gated complex of only two villas with a majestic entrance
and marvellous cascades, enjoying full privacy and security. The villa is built with the best materials and offers high quality finishes throughout, as well as a perfect distribution of space, large reception areas, spacious en-suite bedrooms and a separate guest suite, all very bright and beautifully decorated. Surrounded by manicured gardens with a large heated pool and endless terraces with magnificent views. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 1.200 m2, plot 3.131 m2. E&V ID: W-02FQ9P. Price: 4.900.000 â‚Ź.
Golden Mile Shop Shop: 952 868 406 ¡ www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella
BE STRONG. LET’S FIGHT COVID 19 TOGETHER! During these unprecedented times our thoughts are with you, your families, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. This is a time for us to be working together to help those less fortunate than ourselves, and to be strong and kind. The Nine Lions Residences will remain closed until further notice, For those of you who are interested in a virtual visit, please contact our sales team who are at your disposal by telephone and email. Or you can visit the website and follow us on Instagram for any updates. Stay safe and well. Your Nine Lions Residences Team We are proud to be donating 1.000 bottles of high quality sanitizer to the local Marbella emergency services.
Follow us: 9lionsresidences
www.9lionsresidences.com
marbella’s most beautiful apartments
Your contact:
Mark Lamb Commercial Director mark@9lionsresidences.com +34 691 901 976
(previously known as UK & European Investments)
W I N E E S TAT E H O M E I N R O N D A
Vineyard charm Beds 4
Bath 4
Built 1.172 m2
Plot 56.334 m2
Modern architecture and the evocative impact of Andalusian design have seldom come together as impressively as in this contemporary country villa set upon a wine estate near Ronda. The landscape around Ronda is marked by wooded hills dressed in varied hues of green cork oak, pine groves and olive trees. Where the land evens out, vineyards, farmland
Price: 4.950.000 €
Ref: DM4558
This stunning modern country property finds itself within the embrace of a green carpet of soft grass, fragrant rustbrown soil and cork oak and olive trees that add welcome shade in the summer months. The setting offers spectacular country, mountain and sea views, with imperial eagles soaring against clear blue skies overhead as you take in the refined natural ambience of the terrace areas or relax by the panoramic pool deck.
“ The setting offers spectacular country, mountain and sea views, with imperial eagles soaring against clear blue skies…” and pastures add brighter shades, to which the spring showers add a profusion of wild flowers in March and April. This is a noble land on the cusp of the elegant historic country town of Ronda, with its many monuments and palaces, not far from Marbella and its bustling shoreline.
The modern hacienda style property is set within the 200-hectare La Melonera wine estate near Ronda, which produces high quality wines that consistently score high reviews. It produces an annual production of 500 privately labelled bottles from the villa’s own vineyards that is
As Marbella Luxury Real Estate specialists for almost three decades and exclusive affiliates of Knight Frank for the Costa del Sol, we are committed to offering our clients the best property portfolio, excellence in service and a completely secure experience when selling or buying a property.
Over 512 offices in 60 territories
CLICK HERE TO DISCOVER MORE
tailored to the owner’s taste - definitely a unique feature for a modern luxury villa near Marbella and the Costa del Sol. An architectural gem in wine country Designed by noted Marbella architect, Marcos Sainz, this is an outstanding property that blends the traditional textural plaster finish of Andalucía, which catches the sunlight so evocatively, with a modern geometry. Natural Mediterranean tiles and sloped rooflines merge with robustness, state-of-the-art amenities and a kitchen that matches the best anywhere. The bedroom suites are warm and comfortable, welcoming you in with a melange of contemporary luxury and the inviting presence of natural materials and textures. The same is true of the bathrooms, which bring in imposing views of nature while evoking an Andalusian style touched by Ibiza-Mallorca inspiration. Marbella Av. Cánovas del Castillo, 4 - Tel. 952 765 138
Complete with swimming pool, sauna and water features, this is without doubt one of the most interesting properties on the greater Costa del Sol region – ideal for people who love nature and style.
Nueva Andalucía Av. del Prado, Urb. Fuente Aloha - Tel. 952 908 415
info@dmproperties.com DMproperties.com
D THE SPOTLIGHT HomeDoctor ECI
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HOMEDOCTOR OFFERS TWO MONTHS’ FREE VIDEO CONSULTATIONS
Owing to the current crisis caused by the COVID-19, remote access to health care can help reduce the infection rate and prevent the collapse of hospitals. For this reason, HomeDoctor is offering two free months of video consultation to all its users.
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enterprise THE PRO z
H
omeDoctor has been ‘bringing' doctors to people’s homes for three years through its app. Patients simply enter the app and enjoy an informative video conference with a doctor. Within a question of minutes, they can have their doubts answered and their symptoms evaluated. The doctor can diagnose them and, if necessary, refer them to the closest health centre, or to a specialist. The company currently collaborates with some of the biggest hospitals across different regions in Spain. It has a host of ‘HomeDoctor rooms’, all of which are equipped with highdefinition cameras and top quality audio equipment. This helps patients feel
closer to the doctor and eases communication. Right now, with people wanting to stick close to home, having a service such as this is no less than a necessity. HomeDoctor has the capacity to undertake over 5,000 consultations per month. It takes just a few minutes for a consultation (similar to what you would expect when you visit your health professional). To avail of the service, download the app HomeDoctor (available for IOS and Android). When you register, use the code COVIDFREE. Once you have registered, you can immediately start using the app. Doctors can attend to you 24/7, meaning you need never wait. The service is
available 365 days a year. We recently gave the app a try for a suspected COVID-19 case. The experience was very good. We were able to access a doctor in five minutes and they gave excellent advice regarding how to proceed. Our public health system is overburdened right now so being able to count on a consultation so quickly is truly something to be thankful for. HomeDoctor is a Spanish startup aimed at corporate and private clients. It can be found in Google Play and the Apple Store. The download is completely free. There are other similar apps available so make sure the one you are looking at has the blue logo pictured above.
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD FOR APPLE OR ANDROID:
@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 19
Apartments 3 or 4 bedrooms starting from 170 m²
SUNSET in
Semi-Detached Houses 4 bedrooms up to 245 m²
Soul Marbella
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EL CORTE INGLÉS LENDS A HAND IN TIMES OF NEED PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN
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provided a crucial service to international clients through their What’s Hot International Helpline. Shoppers can place food and non-food orders (think freezers, office supplies and other crucial equipment and material for working from home) in their own language. The Helpline can be reached on the following numbers: Tel: 650 932 549 / 628 172 965 / 659 644 450 / 639 561 868. Thus far, the call centre attends to clients in Spanish, English, French and Russian. They can take your order and deliver it to your home. Clients can also avail of the ‘Click and Collect’ service to pick up here is no doubt that their goods at the second COVID19 is proving to underground carpark of be one of the biggest the shopping centre. The challenges humanity has pickup process is very easy had to face in over 100 – take your trolley, load years. El Corte Inglés, known your groceries into the boot for its solidarity and care of your car, and get home for the community, has safely.
T
Eastern Andalusia International Marketing & Luxury Development Director, Gäel Vignon, states, “Our aim right now isn’t to sell more food or items; it is to help people talk to someone in a language they are comfortable with. Some people may be older or they may simply find the different online processes difficult. By making a call to our Marbella Store International Helpline, the process can be personalised and much easier, which is key during these times. We are reinventing our job on a daily basis, improving all the time and becoming better prepared for the new challenges that arise day by day. That just would not happen without a super team of workers who have decided to fight the Covid19 plague with strength and determination".
@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 27
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Pedro Martínez Gallego, Director of El Corte Inglés Marbella Store, announced on his Instagram page recently, “Yesterday was a tough day, but we have managed to take down all our clients’ food orders and today we will be making all the deliveries. The mini Call Centre we improvised in our store, manned by salespeople from different departments, is enjoying major success and our clients have thanked us for it; they say they feel us close to them. The ability of our team to adapt has been incredible. Some of our staff has spent 20 or 30 years carrying out a specific role or managing a department that brings in millions of euros and here they are with their sleeves rolled up, stocking shelves, packing up orders. It makes me very proud indeed.”
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El Corte Inglés is helping other associations, including health workers; the group has established specific measures to aid doctors, nurses, and their colleagues. Martínez Gallego says, “Today, we can value and admire the hundreds of thousands of people who make up our health service and who get up and head to work every day to ensure we are healthy. Bravo to them; they are at the frontline of this war we are battling.” During one of the world’s most challenging times, businesses across the globe are doing their best to prioritise the most valued possession human beings have: their health. As one of Marbella’s most popular commercial centres, El Corte Inglés is
making a huge effort to help those in need, including health workers, the elderly, and those who speak other languages. Home deliveries and Click and Collect services make shopping safer, easier, and less stressful. Without a doubt, this will do plenty to strengthen the bond that already exists between El Corte Inglés and its loyal customers. g C/ Ramón Aceres s/n,
Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 988. www.elcorteingles.es CLICK FOR ECI FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM
@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 29
The award-winning Villa Alcuzcuz is Marbella’s first avant-garde luxury house designed and built under Passive House Regulations and Standards. Just five minutes from the coast and ten minutes from Marbella, this is a villa that, quite simply, has it all. Plot: 3.550 m2
Built size: 1.323 m2
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the spotlight
IN TIMES OF CONFINEMENT, THE ONE THING THAT IS TOTALLY FREE IS THE MIND. WITH IT, WE CAN TRAVEL TO FAR-OFF PLACES, APPRECIATE THE BEAUTY OF OUR VERY OWN ANDALUCÍA, STOCK UP ON COOL READS AND GAMES, AND DREAM OF DRIVING ALONG THE COAST LIKE WE USED TO IN STYLE. SINCE DREAMING IS FREE, WHY NOT DO SO IN THE BRAND NEW FORD MUSTANG BULLITT 2020?
GO TO PAGE 66 THE NEW FORD MUSTANG BULLITT
GO TO PAGE 78 FOR THE HOT NEW VIDEO GAMES
GO TO PAGE 54 SPRING IN ANDALUCÍA CULTURE HISTORY PEOPLE MOTORING TECHNOLOGY ENTERTAINMENT
GO TO PAGE 38 AND TRAVEL FROM YOUR SOFA
38 Virtual Travel 54 Spring In Andalucía 66 Ford Mustang Bullitt 2020 74 Reading For The Lockdown 78 Hot New Video Games 84 What’s Cool
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You can travel so far from your sofa these days! While China’s Great Wall remains out of bounds and we can’t tick the Taj off our bucket lists right now, we can still get out and about vicariously thanks to the inspirational Internet. Whatever you want to see in the world – Congo gorillas, Africa’s Big Five, The Prado, or anything to keep the kids amused – there’s a web cam, video or virtual walkthrough that’s got it covered to watch from the comfort of your couch. Belinda Beckett floats 10 ideas to start you off so hook up to the biggest screen you can find and get surfing – it could be the start of your next real big adventure!
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MACHU PICCHU IN YOUR PJS
Make sure you’re sitting down to watch this panoramic High Andes tour. You won’t need to chew coca leaves for altitude sickness as you do on a real visit to Peru’s ancient Inca citadel but the 2,430 metre drop from the top will leave you giddy. There are 10 different 360 degree photo tours, with commentary in English, taking you from jaw dropping overviews of the site to closer inspections of ruined temples, royal quarters and fluffy alpacas.
It’s a way to see one of the world’s New Seven Wonders minus the tourist hoards and gain admittance to the sacred summit without having to be one of the first 400 people in line each day eligible for tickets.
CLICK TO VISIT
VIRTUAL GLOBE TROTTING @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 39
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THE TAJ INSIDE-OUT
Nobody will be seeing the Taj Mahal while the two metres of distance rule is in place as this World Wonder on the banks of the Yamuna River normally welcomes 4,000 visitors a day. But you’ll have no such worries on this awesome 360 degree aerial tour of the marble mausoleum, built by Moghul Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, so beautiful it made 'the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes'. The footage provides sweeping views over its domes and slender minarets, skimming over ornamental gardens and reflecting pools and swooping along pathways at people level to enter its cool, dark temples. Zoom in for a fascinating flyover of ramshackle Agra city. The Airpano site offers similarly sensational picture tours to every major landmark on the planet.
CLICK TO VISIT
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@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 41
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WALK CHINA’S GREAT WALL IN SLIPPERS
We can’t offer you the whole 21,000 kilometres but you won’t need your hiking boots. You can stroll along one of the most scenic stretches of this architectural world wonder without stirring from the sofa or changing your footwear. The China Guide offers a virtual tour along the 7km section
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between Jinshanling and Simatai, where you can click through to 'walk' the path or take in dizzying 360 degree views of the surrounding landscape. Why not watch it from your cross trainer and turn this awesome virtual workout into a real one.
CLICK TO VISIT
GORILLA ACTION LIVE
Delayed by political unrest and the Ebola outbreak, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Grace Centre for Gorilla Rehabilitation went live stream last autumn, permitting privileged glimpses into the private lives of its resident eastern lowland gorillas. Three fixed cameras allow you to get up close and personal with this critically endangered species as families play, eat, sleep and explore the lush hillside corridor connecting their nocturnal quarters to their open forest habitat. Peak viewing times are narrow but you can rewind the feed to see what you’ve missed. The cams are showcased on explore.org, a philanthropic multimedia organisation that sponsors the largest live nature network on the planet. With 200 wildlife cameras around the globe you’ll never be bored.
CLICK TO VISIT
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GEYSER GAZING IN YELLOWSTONE The National Park may be closed but you can still watch the live action from one of the most dynamic places on earth. Yellowstone is home to 500 active geysers including its celebrity gusher, Old Faithful, which has been guaranteed to erupt every 44 minutes to two hours since 2000. The park has a live webcam trained on Old Faithful and eight static cams capturing video of other explosive
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happenings in the Upper Geyser Basin, updated every 30 seconds. From the same site you can visit the craggy canyons, subalpine forests and prismatic hot springs of America’s first national park (since 1872) on video and watch regular live feeds, most recently dramatic footage of a wolf pack hunt.
CLICK TO VISIT
SOUTH AFRICA SURFING SAFARI
You don’t have to live in a penthouse beside Selwo Safari Park to see lions and leopards drinking at the waterhole from your front room. You can watch live footage streamed from thousands of miles away in wild South African bush country where anything can happen, especially when predators are gathered at the same drinking joint. This site has six live cams capturing footage from different parks and you’ll be perfectly safe from the nice big pussycats Keep the sound turned up for an out-of-Africa chorus of snorts, grunts, growls and chirrups. If there’s nothing doing at the waterhole when you log on no worries, you can sign up for live wildlife alerts and, while you’re waiting, enjoy videos the site prepared earlier.
CLICK TO VISIT
@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 45
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TIMES SQUARE ON LOCKDOWN
If you want to snoop on who’s out and about in New York City when they shouldn’t be, Earth Cam’s live feed from Times Square will keep you posted. Currently it’s pretty deserted as Big Apple residents are under house arrest but we did spot a panic buyer pushing a trolley full of goodies along the pavement when we checked in! It’s among reams of fly-on-the-wall footage you can find on EarthCam, the world’s leading provider of webcam content opening a virtual window on landmarks around the world. Check out the Abbey Road zebra crossing made famous by the Beatles and catch exclusive views from the Statue of Liberty’s Torch Balcony, closed to the public since 1916.
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A DAY AT SAN DIEGO ZOO
KEEPING the kids occupied during weeks of self-isolation is a mental challenge for any parent, even those not trying to work from home, but California’s San Diego Zoo can still give them a cracking virtual day out. The website has a camera spy posted in 11 of its enclosures giving the little ones a glimpse into the daily lives of penguins and orang-utans, giraffes, baboons and cuddly koalas (although
they don’t do much but sleep). Polar bears, tigers, elephants and giant pandas offer other enchanting close encounters and, if they’re all having a snooze, you can watch videos and read up on some of the zoo’s other stars, like the Sloth Bear Brothers. You won’t hear a peep out of your offspring for hours and think how much you’ll save on ice creams and monkey nuts.
CLICK TO VISIT
@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 47
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GET INTO THE PRADO FREE
Madrid is not a place anyone wants to be right now but you can still do its famous Prado Museum without breaking State of Emergency laws. Spain’s premier cultural attraction houses over 7,000 works amassed by Spanish royalty over more than five centuries – and it will take more than a virus to keep them hidden from view. You can catch a different one-hour tour posted live every morning at 10.00 on Facebook or explore the collections in a series of nine award-winning video tours through the magnificent 18th century building. Highlights include Hieronymus Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights and Velázquez’ Las Meninas and you can spend hours poring over masterpieces by all the major maestros – Goya, El Greco, Rembrandt, Rubens et al.
CLICK TO VISIT
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SEMANA SANTA ON THE SOFA Easter is cancelled – whoever thought the day would come – and there will be no hooded penitents and golden thrones processing through Sevilla’s orange blossom streets this year. If this is leaving a spiritual hole in your life you can relive highlights from last year’s spectacle moment by moment in a four-hour video stream from Canal Cofrade Television. ‘Coronavirus has
taken away the dream of celebrating Our Holy Week,’ says the web TV channel run by the city’s religious Brotherhoods. 'But we hope you can enjoy remembering moments from 2019 in your homes.’
CLICK TO VISIT
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Untitled-2 1
26/11/2019 16:38
We’re here. Whenever you need us, give us a call. These are challenging times for everyone. Under current circumstances, your own welfare and that of your family and friends must take priority. We feel the same. But we’re still here for you. While our local offices have closed their doors, Blevins Franks remains open and fully operational as a business. All our advisers and support staff are working as usual, albeit from home.
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900 670 047 Freephone
southernspain@blevinsfranks.com SAN PEDRO, ESTEPONA, GIBRALTAR, CADIZ, HUELVA, AYAMONTE
900 978 903 Freephone
southernspain@blevinsfranks.com
So if you do have questions about your tax or estate planning, pensions, investments or preparing for Brexit – or just want to talk – please get in touch.
100-es
INTERNATIONAL TA X ADVICE • INVESTMENTS • ESTATE PLANNING • PENSIONS Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Distribution Directive or the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II, the applicable regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.
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Talk to us today Visit BinckBank.com/potential
Spain: (+34) 951 56 56 56 | UK: (+44) 203 901 2756 Email: info@binckbank.com www.binckbank.com
D THE SPOTLIGHT spring
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‘YOU CAN CUT ALL THE FLOWERS BUT YOU CAN’T KEEP SPRING AWAY’ wrote the Novel Prize-winning Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. Regrettably, many of the usual rites of spring have been cut from the calendar – Sevilla’s Feria de Abril, romerias in the Andalusian countryside, even Easter’s solemn rituals, por díos – but we can still take inspiration from the season of rebirth. Or as witty Wisconsin journalist Doug Larson also wrote, ‘Spring makes you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush’. Belinda Beckett whistles up some of her favourite things about April in Andalucía.
¡PRIMAVER
A L A V I V A
¡
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FLOWER POWER ‘The earth laughs in flowers’, wrote the poet philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, and the laughter doesn’t come louder than Andalucía, with more species than anywhere else in Europe in bloom at once. Wild flowers stipple fields like a Monet masterpiece, the grass is as green as the flag of Andalucía, lavender grows like weeds or is tamed in dazzling purplestriped fields for sale to garden centres and use in antiseptics, air fresheners and stress-relieving pot pourris. And scarlet corn poppies peep timidly from hedgerows or run riot across entire fields in the cooler foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Spain is also the world’s biggest cultivator of opium poppies, after Australia, grown at classified
locations for pharmaceutical use and for the poppy seeds on your burger bun! April is also cherry blossom time. These frothy pink and white trees aren’t exclusive to Japan – Spain is the third largest cultivator of cherries in Europe after Turkey and Italy. AIfarnate, the highest village in Málaga province, is known as Andalucía’s Valle del Jerte after the area in Extremadura that produces the most. For much of this biodiversity, we have the Moors to thank. They spent seven centuries recreating the garden paradise of Al-Andalus according to ideology of the Koran. ‘Bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed also the soul’. It’s a good thought.
“THE EARTH LAUGHS IN FLOWERS”
RALPH WALDO EMERSON
Wild flowers stipple fields like a Monet painting @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 55
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Carpenter bees get busy
BUMPER-SIZED BEES
Robin Williams said ‘Spring is nature’s way of saying “Let’s party!’” and there’s no party animal quite like the carpenter bee, so-called because they nest inside bamboo cane. Prolific at this time of year, when they’re not pollinating the wisteria they’re making whoopee on the wing. Black, shiny and gigantic (about the size of your thumb), when there are two of them buzzing you while clasped together in coitus, it’s scary. But the males have no sting and the females are docile unless provoked. Shut your eyes and let their drowsy droning lull you to sleep in your lounger on a sunny spring day.
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ORANGE OVERLOAD Oranges grow on trees in Andalucía, and not just in the campo. They line the streets and plazas of every village and town, delighting and disappointing visitors in turn when they realise Seville oranges are too tart to eat – but when life gives you bitter oranges, make marmalade! The small waxy flowers that blossom in spring aren’t much to look at but they pack a knockout olfactory punch, an intoxicating scent that perfumes the
entire city of Sevilla in April when all 31,306 trees (officially) are in bloom. Which is one of the reasons the Moors planted them – to sweeten the air in their crowded citadels. Today essence of azahar (Arabic for orange blossom) is used in perfumes, honey and cosmetics and in commercial orchards the fallen blossoms are dried to make homeopathic teas. A cuppa is said to lift the spirits which is what we all need this month!
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STORK NURSERIES
It’s amazing storks have the time to deliver human babies in April when they’re so busy caring for their own. At this time of year no road in the Campo de Gibraltar is without its high rise white stork nurseries. Every church spire, pylon and telegraph pole is topped with a breeding pair, joined as the season progresses by two or three smaller, fluffy heads. White storks used to migrate south for the winter but they’re strictly staycationers these days, thanks to landfill sites where they can dine on their own doorstep. For years when they were endangered, local councils provided nesting platforms to prevent the birds from electrocution. Since their population exploded, metal spikes have been installed to discourage them, (although these canny avians work round them). A universal symbol of fertility, storks also inspired Mae West’s great one-liner dismissing an odious suitor in the 1934 film Belle of the Nineties: ‘His mother should have thrown him away and kept the stork.’
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“LOOK DEEP INTO NATURE, AND THEN YOU WILL UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING BETTER.” ALBERT EINSTEIN
WOODLAND WONDERS
Andalucía’s woodland wonders: Parque Natural de los Alcornocales
For self-isolation you can’t beat a walk through a cork oak forest three times the size of Madrid (State of Alarm decrees permitting). Although in June and July you might have to share Los Alcornocales Natural Park with the cork harvesters stripping the bark for wine stoppers. Stretching from Ronda to Tarifa, there are hundreds of trails skirting rivers, bull ranches, goat pastures and holm oak glades where Iberian pigs snuffle for the acorns that make Andalucía’s jamon de bellota so scrumptious. Spring mushrooms are another speciality as edible fungi flourish in the fog-drenched valleys of this ‘mist forest’ until May. It’s also the only woodland outside the tropics to find the rare psilotum nudum fern, discovered by New Zealand botanist Betty Molesworth Allen (when she was living in our village of Los Barrios in Cádiz, as it happens). It won her an OBE. Albert Einstein wrote: ‘Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.’ It’s worth a go. @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 59
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ZERO-FOOTPRINT BEACHES
The Costa del Sol’s beaches are famous but you’ll never walk alone on them, even in April. Conversely, you can stroll for kilometres along the Atlantic shoreline of Cádiz province without seeing another pair of footprints in the sand. The German poet Rainer Rilke, who loved Andalucía, recommended beach walks. ‘When anxious, uneasy and bad thoughts come, I go to the sea, and the sea drowns them out with its great wide sounds,’ he wrote. The beaches flanking Cape Trafalgar where the famous battle was fought are especially invigorating. With the whipping Atlantic wind and the crashing of surfer-sized waves, you won’t be able to hear yourself worry.
TUNA TIME
The arrival of Atlantic Bluefin tuna is spring’s grand finale and a cause for celebration along the Cádiz coast where these ocean giants are still caught by almadraba trap nets the sustainable Phoenician way. These giant circular structures float offshore from the end of April to June, catching the tuna en route to their Mediterranean spawning grounds at their plumpest and juiciest best. Fished strictly by quota, wild tuna can weigh 400 kilos and the choicest cuts of atun rojo fetch over €80 a kilo. But as Cádiz Michelin ‘Chef of the Sea’ Ángel Léon promises, “One taste and you’ll never eat tinned tuna again.”
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Solitary beaches: Playa de Bolonia, Tarifa
COCKTAIL-HOUR SUNSETS
No more burning the midnight oil! The clocks sprang forward last month, providing daylight until a much more civilised hour. The sun doesn’t go over the yardarm until after work – the perfect time for a pre-prandial tipple on the terrace. A sundowner cocktail or chilled fino from Jerez is just the job for chasing the blues away while you dwell on the words of motivational blogger Kristen Butler: “Sunsets are proof that no matter what happens, every day can end beautifully.” Salud! e
“SUNSETS ARE PROOF THAT NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS, EVERY DAY CAN END BEAUTIFULLY” KRISTEN BUTLER
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FORD MUSTANG BULLITT SPORTS COUPÉ
Movie buffs will likely argue until the end of time as to which film car chase was the most exciting, but most agree that the Mustang vs Charger pursuit in Bullitt is right up there with the best of them. WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FORD
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or those who don’t know the movie, the chase involves ‘Mr. Cool’ Steve McQueen as a detective, driving his 1968 Mustang in pursuit of two contract killers in a Dodge Charger through the streets of San Francisco. Ford has had a Bullitt model in its lineup on and off for some time now, but for the movie’s 50th anniversary, it was decided to come up with something special. The result is the 2020 Mustang Bullitt and it might just be the best muscle car ever developed. The new car looks truly impressive and at first glance, it’s not easy to
tell it’s a Mustang. All Mustangs look great nowadays, but this one stands out with something of a ‘stealth’ appearance about it. For starters, there are no Mustang badges anywhere, just a large Bullitt logo on the tail. You have to search to find Ford badges too so it looks quite exotic in the wonderful Dark Highland Green paint job our test car arrived in. The colour is close to that of the movie car and that’s the hue most buyers will likely choose. The only alternative is Shadow Black, which probably looks even more menacing.
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The Bullitt, lavishly equipped even in basic form, is a serious performer thanks to an upgraded 5.0-litre V-8 that puts out around 460-horsepower and produces 420 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission you can get is a six-speed manual and it’s a good one offering slick, positive changes. The shift lever has a white cue ball knob just like the one in McQueen’s movie Mustang. Compared to Mustangs of years ago, the new ones really apply the power well with no loss of adhesion at the rear wheels during hard acceleration. The engine has a wonderfully throaty roar under full throttle, a roar that will delight enthusiasts if not the neighbours. Actually, the car can be carefully driven to produce only a satisfying V-8 burble and doesn’t have to disturb anybody. Ford has done great work with the handling and the Bullitt feels very predictable and safe. Expectedly, this Mustang has an extensive suite of electronic safety and stability features so it’s 68 / APRIL 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM
as safe and secure as any family saloon. Enthusiasts will regard the big Brembo brakes as the best possible safety feature. The Italian company produces brakes for just about all the world’s major racing series, including Formula One. Our test Bullitt came with the optional Recaro competition-style front seats and they’re hip huggers in the true tradition of serious racing seats. They’re a tad awkward to climb into but once behind the wheel, you wouldn’t have it any other
way. German manufacturer Recaro is famous for its competition car seats and also produces seats for Lufthansa and other airlines. The Mustang Bullitt is a real thrill to drive, not that common nowadays, especially in this Mustang’s price bracket. Few sports coupés offer as much fun and performance for the money but the big bonus is driving a re-creation of one of the iconic movie cars of the 20th century. Detective Frank Bullitt would have loved this car. e
Z ENGINE: 5.0-litre V-8, 460-horsepower. Z TRANSMISSION: 6-speed manual. Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 4-secs. Z TOP SPEED: 260 km/h. Z I LIKED: Raw power with noises to match take the driver back to the muscle car days of old. Handling far superior to that of Mustangs of the past. Excellent value for money. Z I DIDN’T LIKE: Older folks might find climbing into the Recaro seats a bit of a chore, but it’s easier with the standard units. Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: BMW M4, Dodge Challenger Hellcat, Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette (not all available in Europe). Z WHO DRIVES ONE? The enthusiast driver who needs a change from more sophisticated European sports models and would like to turn back the clock to the 1960s and the heyday of big V-8 powerplants. Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Available now from €56.400.
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TOP READS DURING
CONFINEMENT Books are a magnificent source of escape at this time when the real world seems stranger than fiction. Snuggle on the sofa with these pageturners and be engulfed in exciting new worlds for at least a few precious moments a day. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA BY ISABEL ALLENDE
This events in this book take place during the Spanish civil war. General Franco and his Fascists have just overthrown the government, and hundreds of thousands are forced to flee, undertaking a treacherous journey to the French border. Among them is Roser – a young widow whose life becomes intertwined with that of her brother-in-law. Both embark on the SS Winnipeg – a ship chartered by Pablo Neruda and headed for Chile. The young duo dream of returning back home while their countrymen destroy each other in one of the most cruel wars – that of brother against brother.
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LONG BRIGHT RIVER BY LIZ MOORE
This is the story of two sisters – Mickey (a cop) and Kacey (an opioid user). Both were raised by their bitter grandmother and both have been estranged for many years, though Mickey keeps tabs on Kacey, ensuring she is okay. When Kacey disappears (coinciding with a host of missing person cases in the city), Mickey fears for her sister’s life. She obsessively searches for Kacey in a neighbourhood riddled with crime, drugs, and deception.
DEAR EDWARD
BY ANN NAPOLITANO
Edward is a young boy who survives a plane crash that kills 191 people – including his parents. The plot switches in time between Edward’s pre- and post-crash life, with heartbreaking scenes as well as incredibly funny ones. Jodi Picoult, New York Times best-selling author of Small Great Things, said, “Dear Edward is a rare book that breaks your heart and stitches it back together.”
AMERICAN DIRT
BY JEANINE CUMMINS
This novel highlights the ordeal of a Mexican woman who has to leave her life behind and escape as an undocumented immigrant with her son. Her entire family has been murdered, so there is no alternative but to run. The book is currently sparking huge polemic in America, owing to its commentary on political trends. Renowned Mexican American novelist, Sandra Cisneros, called this book “the great novel of the Americas.” It seeks to redefine who has the right to tell a story of suffering that affects millions.
AGENCY
BY WILLIAM GIBSON
This sci-fi gem is both a sequel and a prequel to Gibson’s previous hit, The Peripheral. It centres on time travel, with the protagonists exploring an alternative reality in which Hillary Clinton wins the 2016 election. There are two parallel plots – one taking place in 2017 and the other in the post-apocalyptic 22nd century. Sounds like mind-boggling stuff! e
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A Zen Soul Home to Call Your Own!
Situated front line to the well known Guadalmina Alta golf course, this is a house for a family with kids and some guest rooms for visiting friends. Created by renowned architect Gus WĂźstemann, this unique space offers a total of 480 m2 inside area and a huge garden with big covered outside spaces, where you could live outside day and night, all year long. Five bedrooms en suite and living areas complete the house on the first floor. Security systems, climate control and energy saving, this special house has everything one can ask for in the most elegant, private and natural way.
UrbanizaciĂłn Hacienda Playa, C.C. Platino, Local 5 29604 Elviria, Marbella (MĂĄlaga) Tel: (+34) 656 25 65 41 / (+34) 637 938 311 / (+34) 952 83 63 00 email: info@marbella360.com - Click here for more information and images.
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UPCOMING VIDEO GAME LAUNCHES
Given the current state of confinement owing to COVID-19, video games are an amazing way to step into fantastical universes in which players can feel a greater sense of control and calm. You are probably playing your favourite set of games, but this post might inspire you to look to the future as well. Most of the following games will be launched between March and September 2020. One game (Animal Crossing: New Horizons) is already cheering up millions of kids across the globe. WORDS JOFFREE KING
THE LAST OF US 2
If you fell in love with Joel and Ellie – two survivors in a post-outbreak world – then without a doubt you were left with baited breath, wondering what would become of them. This game follows their movements five years post the original game’s events. The duo are now in Seattle, and Ellie seems very angry about a mystery we will soon discover!
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FINAL FANTASY 7 REMAKE
Final Fantasy has always been an optimal choice for gamers into beautiful visuals and a futuristic/fantasy feel and this latest version of the game is as visually slick as they come. This is a multi-part project that will be released in instalments, with the first slated for release in April. Part One, which runs over two Blu-ray disks, takes place exclusively in Midgar and features new plots and characters. The game was actually originally due in March, but the producers took “a few extra weeks to apply final polish to it and to deliver the best possible experience.� Judging by the initial images, it certainly looks like they are keeping their promise!
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MARVEL’S AVENGERS
The Avengers saga somehow struck a chord among audiences from preteen age upwards and some time after the summer, the game Marvel’s Avengers will be captivating the same crowd. Featuring the voices of Laura Bailey, Nolan North, and Travis Willingham, it will permit players to take on the roles of the Black Widow, Iron Man, Thor and other much-loved heroes from the film franchise.
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CYBERPUNK 2077
Just the sight of this game, which features a super cool image of none other than the great Keanu Reeves, is setting our imagination on fire. Thus far, producers CD Projekt Red have merely teased us about what this game will be like, but we do know that gamers will be making their way through a dense metropolis and immersing themselves in a dingy world in which espionage and futuristic weapons rule the roost.
ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS
If you love Japanese animation then you will undoubtedly be putting this one into your wishlist fast. The game takes the cute character Ori (from Ori and the Blind Forest), and places him in the middle of a forest filled with evil enemies such as spiders and fire-breathing monsters. Ori will have to discover his true destiny, finding beauty where anyone else might see fear.
ANIMAL CROSSING: NEW HORIZONS
With much improved graphics, this cool game is already making life a lot more relaxing and beautiful for many young players. Rather than having a big goal to achieve or foe to fight, it involves carrying out a host of cool tasks such as picking fruits, fishing, redesigning your home, making tools, transforming your island, and giving neighbours a helping hand. Your friends can hang out with you for hours on end, using a service like Discord to chat so you can feel a vital sense of connection and unity in these tough times. e
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€ 273.000
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WHAT’S COOL?
Many of us may be cooped up inside our home dreaming of outdoor events, concerts and festivals, but instead of feeling stuck, we can let our imagination take us to amazing places that will soon be open, restoring a sense of normality to what has seemed like a dystopia. These are a few events that remind us of how fun life outside can actually be! COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS
LEXUS SPONSORS THE SPANISH VS CLASSIC ALL BLACKS CLASH
ROLLS-ROYCE LUGGAGE FOR LUXURY LOVERS
Check out The Icon Collection – a timeless range of luxury items for the discerning eye. Created for Rolls-Royce by the Design Studio at Goodwood, it uses top-quality saddle leather in a classic tan finish. Rolls-Royce also has a more daring, dynamic collection called The Kinetic Collection. i www.rollsroycemotorcars.com
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Fingers crossed this event will pull through. Lexus recently announced that it would be sponsoring the Spanish vs Classic All Blacks rugby game, to be held at Wanda Metropolitano in Madrid. Mythical players like Joe Rokocoko, Piri Weepu, Stephen Donald, Sitiveni Sivivatu, and others will be present. We have no doubt that if the event cannot be held in May, it will be postponed to an even sunnier month! i www.lexus.com
LA VENENO, NEW SERIES ON ATRESPLAYER PREMIUM
If you’re into Spanish pop culture then without a doubt you are fascinated by Cristina Ortiz, La Veneno, one of the country’s most dynamic LGBT icons ever. Her quick wit and dry sense of humour made her a huge hit on TV in the 2000s but she sadly passed away at a young age. This new series, written and directed by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, tells her story.
EXPO 2020 DUBAI AND CARTIER ANNOUNCE WOMEN’S PAVILION
Expo 2020 Dubai and Cartier have announced a collaboration to present the Women’s Pavilion, celebrating women change-makers all over the world. The Women’s Pavilion takes a new look at the contribution of women and their impact on society, shining a light on their countless achievements, past and present, that have driven forward economies and enhanced their communities. i www.cartier.com
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CHOCOLATE BODY WRAP AT ROYAL HIDEAWAY LUXURY HOTELS & RESORTS
If you are planning on visiting Mallorca in the summer, step into Formentor, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, and ask about their amazing chocolate body wrap, made of cane sugar and cacao. The combination of materials and techniques targets cellulite and works to firm up and smoothen skin. i www.barcelo.com
EUROPEAN PREVIEW OF THE ROADSTER BC AND PAGANI IMOLA
Following the cancellation of the Geneva Motor Show, Pagani presented two of its most impressive new creations (the Roadster BC and Pagani Imola) via video from their atelier in Modena. Check out the unbelievable design of these babies. i www.pagani.com
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RIHANNA SHINES AT 51ST EDITION OF NAACP IMAGE AWARDS
Few models shine quite as brightly as Rihanna did at the recent NAACP Image Awards. She stunned in jewels bearing amethysts, sapphires, tourmalines and more, all by prestigious firm Chopard. i www.chopard.com
LAURENT-PERRIER LAUNCHES FIRST BLANC DE BLANCS Laurent-Perrier is proud to announce the launch of Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature – a nouvelle white Champagne hailing from the best crus of the Côte des Blancs. i www.laurent-perrier.com
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the style
FANTASY APPEALS NOW MORE THAN EVER, SO IT IS FITTING THAT THIS MONTH’S FASHION FEATURE SHOULD CENTRE ON THE VISIONARY ALEXANDER MCQUEEN. WE ALSO TAKE A LOOK AT EXCLUSIVE RESIDENTIAL PROJECT, BENALÚS, CHECK OUT SUAVE SOUNDBARS FOR THE ULTIMATE HOME LISTENING EXPERIENCE, AND SUGGEST COOL TOYS TO KEEP YOUR PETS ENTERTAINED.
GO TO PAGE 104 TOP SOUNDBARS
GO TO PAGE 116 ALEXANDER MCQUEEN CATWALK
GO TO PAGE 108 FOR THE FABULOUS FABERGÉ EGGS
GO TO PAGE 92 NEW LUXURY BENALÚS ON THE GOLDEN MILE
INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART DESIGN GARDENS FASHION 92 Benalús 104 Top Soundbars 108 Aestheticons 116 Alexander Mcqueen’s Spring/Summer Collection 126 Fashion Focus 128 Toys For Pets
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BENALÚS WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ENGEL & VÖLKERS MARBELLA
BOUTIQUE DESIGN ON THE GOLDEN MILE 92 / APRIL 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM
In a prime area with little new development such as the Golden Mile, Benalús is a luxurious apartment complex just metres from the beach that offers boutique design, comfort and style.
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or all the new areas being developed, the Golden Mile remains the place to be, the address to have and the centre of Marbella’s iconic sense of glamour. In short, it is the location that most discerning buyers ask for, but as a well-established area with little land to develop, new modern developments are very rare indeed on the Golden Mile. So much the greater is the sense of excitement therefore when a stylish new project reaches the market. Just a short distance from the Golden Mile’s beaches and beach clubs, the classic Marbella Club and Puente Romano hotels, and the cluster of fine dining and haute couture shopping that this part of Marbella is
known for, a superbly styled and executed new boutique project is taking shape. Benalús is a deluxe complex of just 25 apartments and penthouses set enveloped by luxurious gardens in a very private enclave. This is the heart of the Golden Mile, just a short drive to Puerto Banús, Marbella town and Nueva Andalucía, yet it is a private oasis of peace, privacy and landscaped greenery. The gardens open up around you as you pass the gated security entrance and enter a personal domain within a short stroll of the Golden Mile’s beachfront. From this spot, views of the Mediterranean meld with those of La Concha Mountain to produce a classic Marbella scene.
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A RARE GOLDEN MILE OPPORTUNITY New property opportunities of this kind are very rare on the Golden Mile, so a location of this quality deserves nothing but the best. It is a condition demanded by a market keen for the most sought-after setting in Marbella, and Benalús has been created accordingly, with careful attention to detail, loving creativity of design and layout, and special emphasis on sculpting a parkland environment that surrounds the properties. If location is the golden rule of real estate and defines the desirability
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of homes, then the latter have to reflect this and offer a sense of taste, refinement and above all, lifestyle, that stands out. This is the philosophy behind the creation of Benalús – a five-star deluxe project in a rare five-star deluxe location. Occupying beautifully styled low-rise blocks of sleek, modern Mediterranean design with natural materials are 25 luxurious apartments and penthouses that represent the crème de la crème of new homes in Marbella.
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DESIGNER HOMES IN A PARKLAND SETTING Surrounded by 4,800 square metres of lush gardens and tall, mature trees, the properties are orientated towards the south and west and offer a variety of options, including first floor apartments, luxurious garden homes and double-storey penthouses. The two- to fourbedroom homes with en-suite bathrooms offer space, natural light and open-plan living with large open terraces in the modern style, as well as the latest word in technology
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and conveniences. Tall windows let light and views in, high-quality construction ensures optimal sound and heat insulation, while the materials selected combine aesthetic luxury with the textural appeal of quality natural materials. This includes wooden detailing on the external architecture, noble marble floors, precision-cut glass railings, floating staircases, fine wooden lattice work and modern fireplaces set in beautifully veined stone.
Such details form the ode to the outstanding setting of BenalĂşs, helping to make this boutique community stand out for many more reasons than setting and views alone. The finest brands have been chosen in kitchens and bathrooms as well as lighting, cabinetry and sliding doors that glide soundlessly to the touch. At BenalĂşs, superb quality matches superb location and design to produce one of the most outstanding property developments seen for many years.
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GARDEN APARTMENTS
A variety of options is available on the ground floor level, ranging from two- to four-bedroom apartments with luminous open-plan living spaces that open up to west and east-facing terraces. These spacious outdoor areas flow on to private gardens with their own swimming pools. The larger garden apartments also feature a semi-basement area that can provide additional bedrooms, a home cinema or games room, while the master bedroom terrace comes with an outdoor Jacuzzi.
FIRST FLOOR APARTMENTS
These three-bedroom properties enjoy expansive views from indoors and two spacious terraces. Open-plan living ensures a pleasant distribution and flow of light, in which the bedroom suites are private, independent bastions of comfort and privacy. These apartments feature the same high standard of finishing and equipment found throughout BenalĂşs.
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THREE-FLOOR PENTHOUSES
Luxurious and spacious, the penthouses at Benalús have double-height living rooms, a private lift and a rooftop terrace that forms the perfect spot in which to relax and entertain while taking in some of Marbella’s very best views. Space and privacy are optimised in these sky villas, where the master bedroom has a large dressing room and the rooftop terrace comprises an outdoor kitchen and barbecue, lounging and dining areas, and a private swimming pool.
RESORT LIVING
This secure, gated community with private access road offers a resort lifestyle within easy access of Marbella’s finest amenities and leisure facilities. Live in your own resort retreat cosseted by greenery, with your own spa and indoor heated swimming pool, gym and sauna on-site, as well as attractive chill-out areas from which to take in the ambience, the views and sunsets. A stunning swimming pool and multi-level solarium add to on-site facilities that give Benalús the luxuries and ambience of a select retreat.
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DESIGN AND DÉCOR Fine marble, tall windows, ceiling cornices with LED lighting, stateof-the-art kitchens and dressing rooms, as well as luxuriant modern bathrooms mark homes with freestanding designer bathtubs, tasteful wood and stone detailing, double-height ceilings, elegant fabric wall-padding, modern fireplaces and floating staircases. The kitchen island flows on to a sunny breakfast bar designed for early mornings framed by fantastic views, while inspiring sea and mountain perspectives create a
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range of impressions from most every part of the house. These are homes made for the finest contemporary furniture, artistic lights, cosseting fine quality fabrics and illuminating art, and bespoke interior design solutions are available for those fortunate enough to make these exquisite apartments and penthouses their home. BenalĂşs is a superb new boutique development that befits a location so desirable and a real estate opportunity so rare that it only comes around every few years.
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TOP SOUNDBARS FOR 2020
Sound bars not only heighten the quality of your experience but also embellish your interiors, adding a modern, tech savvy feel to your audiovisual systems. These are just a few of the very best devices, all of which are making waves among critics and buyers alike. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS
SB500 BY ZVOX
If you are after an option that offers an excellent listening experience at an affordable price, this might be ideal for you. It has two woofers and three full-range drivers powered by a 140-watt Class D amplifier. Its rear has two Toslink optical digital inputs and one analogue stereo input. The soundbar supports aptX codec for good quality streaming. i www.zvox.com
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BEOSOUND STAGE BY BANG & OLUFSEN
When it comes to optimal performance and one-of-a-kind design, it’s got to be Bang & Olufsen. The famed luxury firm’s new soundbar, Beosound Stage, was designed in collaboration with Norm Architects. A graceful frame of aluminium or smoked oak surrounds the textile of the speaker front. The
sound bar offers a three-channel sound system with a superior centre channel for optimised speech reproduction. The viewing experience is enhanced even further with Dolby Atmos, a function that enables sound to move around you in a threedimensional space. The bar comes with eleven speaker drivers, each driven by its own amplifier. This three-channel, fully active, DSP based loudspeaker solution delivers a profound and rich performance. sen.com
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YAS-209 BY YAMAHA
Another well-priced choice that offers a host of features, including voice assistance (it has built-in Alexa). Its design is tubular and simple; so discreet it blends in perfectly well with your TV and features DTS Virtual: X – a technology which immerses the audience in 3D surround sound. Featuring a wireless Subwoofer and Bluetooth technology for a pleasant sound experience. i www.yamaha-es.com
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© Max Threlfall
AMBEO SOUNDBAR BY SENNHEISER
Harnessing the power of a multi-speaker home cinema system in one discreet, cutting-edge device, AMBEO Soundbar delivers a 3D experience. Powered by 13 high-end drivers, it delights homeowners with a 5.1.4 sound experience and a deep 30Hz bass without the need for an extra subwoofer. Feel the joy of being immersed in studio-grade sound in the comfort of your own home i Available at See & Touch in Puerto Banús. www.seeandtouch.es
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PETER CARL
FABERGÉ
EUROPE’S GREATEST JEWELLER Pick any TV antique show and the item that is likely to cause the sharpest collective intake of breath is an object fashioned by the late 19th century, St Petersburg Imperial Court jeweller, Peter Carl Fabergé (May 30, 1846 – September 24, 1920). WORDS MARK WILKINS
F
abergé was the first of two boys born to a Baltic German jeweller father, Gustav Fabergé and his Danish wife, Charlotte Jungstedt. Gustav’s family was Huguenot of French origin who had fled France in the early 1800s. In 1862, having retired from the family’s jewellery business, Carl’s parents moved to Dresden, where he studied for several years. Carl was heavily influenced by the contents of Dresden’s ‘Green Vaults’ that contained inspirational figurative jewellery and, somewhat prophetically,
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various ornate egg designs. Throughout his apprenticeship, Fabergé travelled extensively in Europe but in 1872 he returned to St Petersburg where for the next ten years, under the tutelage of Hiskias Pendin, his father’s trusted work-master, he worked to engage the Imperial Court with his beautiful bejewelled objects. During this time he also worked in Tsar Alexander III’s Winter Palace, The Hermitage, where he was entrusted to renovate ancient and
damaged artifacts. The Fabergé family business was located on Bolshaya Morskaya Street and was described as a dealer in ‘petty jewellery and spectacles’. In 1882, Carl took over the business and in 1885 his Germanborn designer brother, Agathon, joined him. They formed a formidable team and under Carl’s leadership they determined that the business would become Europe’s Greatest Jeweller. Between 1882 and 1917 it is believed that the business made around 200,000 unique objects.
Oddly for a man whose output and reputation are somewhat defined and characterised by bejewelled objects featuring diamonds and other rare and precious stones, Fabergé was said to be ambivalent about the gems used and more interested in the worthiness of his pieces as art rather than as objects of great value. He described himself as an “Artist Jeweller.” The awards from international exhibitions followed and Fabergé’s place at the heart of the Imperial Court was secured. Perhaps the items of most international renown to bear the Fabergé name are the astonishingly intricate Easter Eggs. The first was produced in 1885 and was a comparatively simple object. Commissioned by the then Tsar, Alexander III, Fabergé made the ‘Hen’s Egg’ of white enamel egg with a yellow gold interior and accompanying gold chick. It was an Easter gift for Alexander’s wife María Feodorovna, an existing Fabergé customer. Her first purchase of a pair of cuff links had assured the House of Fabergé a position as the jeweller of choice for the fine gifts that the Imperial Court was obliged to give to visiting dignitaries. The beautiful objects performed an almost ambassadorial role boasting of the great beauty that Russia was capable of creating.
Fabergé Museum exhibit in St Petersburg on July 7, 2019
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On 1st May 1885, so delighted was Maria Feodorovna with her gift, that she bestowed the title ‘Goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown’ upon Carl. Access to the Hermitage meant that Carl could study the great works preserved in its huge collection. This re-ignited his interest in the art of enamelling which the House of Fabergé used to astonishing effect. His preferred method was a process known as ‘guillot charge’ in which concentric lines are engraved onto the surface of an object, which is then carefully coated with layers of liquid and coloured glass, that when fired, build up on the object’s surface. The stunning results achieved using this method accorded the piece a depth of colour that radiated light. In 1887, Tsar Alexander gave Fabergé
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Snuff box 1896, made on the day of the coronation of Nicholas II, now in the Fabergé Museum
a free hand in the design of subsequent Easter Eggs, his conditions being that they had to be intricate and contain a surprise. He commissioned one egg annually for his wife. In 1889, Alexander’s son Nicholas, his brother and several courtiers, undertook a nearly year long journey by sea from Trieste on Italy’s Adriatic coast to Vladivostok. He left with a large quantity of Fabergé pieces that would be given as gifts to his various hosts. At some point on the journey supplies ran short and more were requested from St Petersburg. The Siamese Royal family, who welcomed Nicholas to what is now Thailand, was particularly enchanted by Fabergé’s Eggs and became avid collectors and a Fabergé customer. The 1891 Easter Egg depicts a golden replica of Nicholas’ ship on an aquamarine
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Snuff box 1896, made on the day of the coronation of Nicholas II, now in the Fabergé Museum
tablet sitting inside a deep green egg decorated with ‘waves’ of gold, inlaid with diamonds. Upon the Tsar’s death in 1894, Tsar Nicolas II continued the tradition and commissioned one egg each year for both his wife and Mother, and by 1917 a total of fifty eggs had been made. María Feodorovna had thirty and her daughter-in-law, Alexandra Feodorovna, had twenty. In addition to the intricacy of the Swan and Peacock automatons eggs, probably the most beautiful egg is the ‘Winter Egg’ of 1911. Designed for María Feodorovna, it contained a basket of spring flowers hidden inside a white crystal egg engraved with frost and inlaid with white diamonds. While many of the eggs are now in private collections, the whereabouts of up to fifteen are still unknown. The influence of the stylised chrysanthemums from the Imperial Court in Peking returned to St Petersburg after Nicholas’
visit inspired Fabergé to create a series of flower studies including the Lily of The Valley, Violets and Cornflowers. Many students of Fabergé’s work believe his flowers to be his finest output. In 1900, the workshop and retail premises of the House of Fabergé moved to a bigger property on Bolshaya Morskaya Street. Carl had his own apartment ‘over the shop’. Output had to be stepped up and, at its height, the business employed over 300 jewellers, goldsmiths and stonemasons. The organisation of the business was divided into small teams under work-masters who operated and were incentivised by effectively running their own businesses under the Fabergé umbrella. A few were permitted to add their own initials to the company’s mark. Untypically for the time, the staff saw the benefit of an in-house doctor and a daily canteen.
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In 1903, the House of Fabergé opened its first store in London, at 173 Bond Street. Fabergé’s objects become the gift for Edwardian lovers. Whether it was a simple bejewelled eyed rabbit given to a loved one at a country house party or a cigarette case in cobalt blue enamel with a diamond inlaid serpent biting its own tail, given by his ‘favourite’, Mrs. Kepple, to King Edward VII, the shop specialised in discrete gifts. The growth and development of the Fabergé business was conducted in the rarified air of the Russian Imperial Court where the Royal Family’s tastes were excessive. They seemed oblivious to the suffering of more lowly Russians of which famine and cold killed many. The Winter Palace tragedy in 1905 seemed an inevitable turning point. By 1914, a year after the flamboyant celebrations of the 300th anniversary of the Russian throne, Russia entered the First World War. Lacking a military training, many of Fabergé’s skilled
staff were killed in the early months of the conflict. By 1917 the Russian Revolution was underway and the Bolsheviks nationalised the Fabergé business. Carl was said to be heartbroken and left on the last diplomatic train out of St Petersburg heading for Switzerland. He died in Lausanne in 1920. Following his wife’s death five years later, their son Eugene buried their ashes in neighbouring graves in Cannes in the South of France. To the shock of the civilised world, Tsar Nicholas II and his family were summarily executed in Yekaterinburg in 1918. Several of the female children had enormous quantities of diamonds sewn into their bodices off which bullets were said to ricochet. Post 1918 many Russian aristocrats sought to sell their Fabergé pieces. American dealers including Armand Hammer amassed vast collections which they exported to New York in the early 1930’s to sell. The newly rich, having recently
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emerged from the ashes of the Wall Street Crash into the Jazz Age, provided a ready market. Hammer was approached in 1937 by Russian émigré, Sam Rubin, who sought a name for his new perfume business; Hammer suggested Fabergé. This saw an explosion in the 1970’s of fragrance products bearing the Fabergé name often accompanied by sexy images of heartthrobs such as Farah Fawcett. In the mid
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1980’s, a TV advert featuring former heavyweight boxer, Henry Cooper, encouraged young men that “Nothing beats the great smell of Brut!” The Fabergé family sued, seeking to protect their name. They settled for $25,000 and Rubin sold his business a few years later for $24M. It is hard to see how the worlds of Fabergé’s as the purveyor of fine court jewellery and the promoter of Brut to the masses could have been more different! In 2009, a group of financiers acquired the worldwide exploitation rights to the Fabergé intellectual property and have revived, with the aid of several small European artisan jewellers and members of the Fabergé family, a new jewellery business that is loyal to the qualities and tastes of the founder. i More articles from Aestheticons – the Home of Iconic Design – can be seen at www.aestheticons.wordpress.com
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Alexander McQueen is arguably one of the world’s most cutting-edge, experimental, eclectic brands,' and their latest collection stays true-toform. Unique material combinations (such as leather and lace), odd pairups (e.g. ruffles and serious business suits) and natureinspired ‘feather effect’ styles make for a collection that is visionary in many ways.
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COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS
SPRING/ SUMMER 2020
ALEXANDER
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i The Alexander McQueen brand is sold at El Corte Inglés. www.alexandermcqueen.com
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S E T TO ! G N I R P S E H T COOL IN -19, cloth tote bags are COVID y because r o In times of s s e c c a g ppin an ideal sho pped in the washing po e, unlike m they can be o h t e g u o en y machine wh otes are also pretty .T plastic bags dding a colourful air to ,a fashionable ere are a few H . e c n ie b m a the current hat may inspire you. st cute design TILLAS
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MARISA CU COMPILED BY
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4
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5 1 – FOLDAWAY SHOPPER BY EMILY BROOKS 2 – PERSONALISED NAME JUTE BAG BY TILLYANNA 3 – RABBIT CANVAS POUCH BY TILLYANNA 4 – THE KINDNESS CO-OP DENIM TOTE BAG IN ORGANIC COTTON BY TOP DRAWER 5 – LOBSTER FOLDING SHOPPING BAG BY SOPHIE ALLPORT 6 – POND LIFE TOTE BAG (WITH 10 COLOURED FELT PENS) BY EAT SLEEP DOODLE
i EAT SLEEP DOODLE www.eatsleepdoodle.com EMILY BROOKS www.emilybrooks.co.uk SOPHIE ALLPORT www.sophieallport.com TILLYANNA www.tillyanna.co.uk TOP DRAWER www.topdrawer.co.uk @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 127
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TOP TOYS
FOR DOGS AND CATS ‘IN LOCKDOWN’
Being confined to our homes may be hard on humans, but pets are probably delighted to be spending so much time with their owners right now. As many cannot take the long walks they used to, take them to the garden or terrace and keep them stimulated with these cool toys. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS
TICK TOCK TEASER CAT TOY SMARTCAT
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SASSY SUSHI PLUSH CATNIP CAT TOYS 3-PACK
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This toy is ideal for inquisitive cats. It works on multiple levels and features a leather tease wand, bright coloured Velcro mouse, and paw-sized peak holes!
Your cat will love playing with these sushi-shaped toys, filled with organic catnip.
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3 3
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SOPHIE ALLPORT FLAMINGO DOG TOY
A fun rope dog toy with a squeaker inside and rope legs which are ideal for playing tug of war. A cute yet sturdy toy your pet will love.
KONA CAVE LUXURY VELVET BONE IN EMERALD GREEN
Treat your furry friend to a plush bone that will be suitable for hours of fun and will complement your home interior. Ideal to accessorise other soft furniture for pooches – including Kona Kave’s luxury dog beds.
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NINA OTTOSSON DOG PUZZLE TOY
Nina Ottosson is famed for making dog games boasting various stages of difficulty. The key is to keep dogs active, curious, and stimulated so they are not bored and they do not engage in destructive behaviour. This game in particular has 12 compartments; it challenges your dog to uncover all of them to reveal his favourite treat!
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i KONA CAVE www.konacave.com NINA OTTOSSON toys are available on www.amazon.es SASSY SUSHI available at www.yellowoctopus.com.au SOPHIE ALLPORT www.sophieallport.com TICK TOCK TEASER available at www.yellowoctopus.com.au @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 129
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the spa
KEEPING YOUR IMMUNITY STRONG AT THIS MOMENT IN TIME IS VITAL. IF YOU ARE STOCKING UP ON VITAMIN C, THE LIPOSOMAL VERSION IS PROBABLY YOUR BEST BET BECAUSE IT DELIVERS NUTRIENTS TO YOUR CELLS IN AN IMMEDIATE AND IMPACTFUL WAY. WE ALSO LOOK AT HOW PEOPLE ARE COPING WITH LONELINESS AND DISCOVER THE IMPORTANCE OF RELAXING BREATHING TECHNIQUES IN TIMES OF STRESS.
GO TO PAGE 132 LEARN ABOUT VITAMIN C
GO TO PAGE 148 ORGANIC BEAUTY PRODUCTS
GO TO PAGE 138 FOR COPING WITH LONELINESS
PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA SCIENCE TREATMENTS HEALTH
GO TO PAGE 142 FOR USEFUL BREATHING TECHNIQUES
132 Vitamin C 138 Coping With Loneliness 142 Useful Breathing Techniques 148 Organic Beauty Products
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WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS
LIPOSOMAL
VITAMIN C A POWER-PACKED IMMUNITY BOOSTER
O
n March 24, 2020, the New York Post announced that severely ill people in New York’s largest state hospital system were being given “massive doses of Vitamin C,” based on promising evidence obtained from China. At one Long Island centre, doctors are treating patients with 1,500 mg daily intravenous Vitamin C – 16 times the recommended daily dose. Case
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by case results show that patients who have received this treatment “are doing significantly better,” and previous clinical trials have shown that even greater doses of Vitamin C, injected intravenously, resulted in many serious viruses being countered – Dr. Thomas Levy, author of Curing the Incurable: Vitamin C, Infectious Diseases, and Toxins.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TAKING VITAMIN C? As Humans, we cannot make our own Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, a watersoluble vitamin that plays an important role in immunity. It is rich in antioxidants, which fight off free radicals in the body, thus helping prevent or delay everything from ageing to heart disease and specific types of cancer. As found in a study by A Ströhle et al, “a vitamin C deficiency results in a reduced resistance against certain pathogens while a higher supply
enhances several immune system parameters. With regard to the common cold, different studies underline that the prophylactic intake of vitamin C may slightly reduce the duration of the illness in healthy persons but does not affect its incidence and severity.” The last sentence is key. Vitamin C may not be the panacea against a cold or flu, but it can speed up recovery and may help illness from gaining a foothold in the body.
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WHAT IS LIPOSOMAL VITAMIN C? One significant problem of traditional Vitamin C is that it is not as ‘bioavailable’ as liposomal Vitamin C. A liposome is a tiny sphere containing an outer layer of fat and an inner layer of water-soluble substances. Because these spheres are made of the same type of fat (phospholipids) which are found in human cells membranes, liposomal Vitamin C is delivered directly into the cells of your body. It is not lost through digestion and it does not consume energy during this process. Moreover, its quality is not lost through oxidation. Standard (non-liposomal) Vitamin C is distributed through the circulation and often excreted by the kidneys.
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Around two to four hours after taking it, your presupplementation levels return and you have to take more. This can be burdensome and expensive. Liposomal Vitamin C, on the other hand, is absorbed like dietary fats; it is taken up by your lymphatic system and enters the bloodstream, making for a notable immunity boost which can reduce your risk of chronic disease.
SHOULD YOU OPT FOR INTRAVENOUS VITAMIN C? There are many studies showing the efficiency of intravenous delivery. In one study by M González et al, it was found that “Vitamin C is an efficient antioxidant, and possesses anti-viral activity. Vitamin C supplemented orally has its limitations in achieving high blood (i.e., plasma) levels, whereas the use of intravenous vitamin C (IVC) can reach blood levels that possess distinct clinical and pharmacological advantages. Vitamin C is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, where the body metabolises a limited amount and the rest is excreted through the kidneys. However, if the vitamin is administered intravenously, it can reach plasma concentrations that are
30 to 70 times higher than the oral pathway.” In this case, IVdelivered Vitamin C was used to treat a patient with a viral disease for which there was no vaccine. Liposomal Vitamin C can bridge the gap between traditional and IV-delivered Vitamin C, since it ensures immediate and full delivery of nutrients to cells, evading nutrient loss and excretion as occurs with traditional Vitamin C. Of course, if you do not have access to liposomal Vitamin C right now, you can still boost your immunity with traditional supplements; you may simply have to take more units, more often. Always speak to a doctor to obtain advice on the right amounts you need to take throughout the day. e
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In light of the actual Covid pandemic, my staff and I want to express our solidarity with everyone affected and our colleagues on the front line. Whilst our clinical services will be limited to critical operative care and emergencies, we will still be available for our patients during these difficult times by phone, email and Skype for any advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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Around one in 13 people in the world have anxiety – a sometimes debilitating disorder than can lead to full-blown panic or a fear of heading outside the home. Anxiety is serious and is no joke to experience. As the ‘fight or flight response’ sets in, you breathe in too much oxygen, your muscles tighten up and you begin to hyperventilate in some cases. Less spoken about but equally problematic is loneliness, described by Our World in Data as ‘an epidemic’ – especially among our elderly. Today, in the midst of our declared war against COVID-19, isolation is our Enola Gay; the mother of all weapons that makes it impossible for this virus to do what it is meant to: jump from one individual to another. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS
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COPING WITH
LONELINESS AND ANXIETY
IN TIMES OF COVID-19 medical centre. The sign read, “Thank you all in emergency for saving my wife’s life. I love you all.” He held his other hand If you are normally calm but are currently to his heart and the look in his eyes feeling worry, fear, stress, sadness, expressed a depth of gratefulness that is tearfulness, or physical symptoms hard to describe. such as increased heart rate, then you That is the thing with this virus; it pulls are simply human. In my own circle of our soul in opposite directions – on loved ones, moods are ranging from the one hand, it paralyses us with fear, empowerment and ‘getting on with it’ wrests our motivation to talk to others, (working, even though remotely, helps produces outbursts uncharacteristic very much), to having full-blown panic in our daily lives. On the other hand, it attacks (pass the lorazepam), having brings out our desire to connect, help, hysterical laughing fits and very suddenly and communicate through social media. being plunged into the heart of darkness Some of you may find yourselves talking when we watch the news and see how via Viber or Skype now to high school many lives are being lost. classmates or friends from abroad. Others may have found they have LIFE DURING COVID-19 IS A ROLLER suddenly knocked down the unyielding COASTER In a recent post on Facebook, a man wall that stopped them from saying “I in New Jersey held a sign in his hand, love you” to those who mean something pushing it against the glass walls of a to them.
A SPIKE IN LONELINESS AND ANXIETY DURING COVID-19
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NO UNSOLICITED ADVICE PLEASE
Scientists have said that one of the best ways to handle loneliness and anxiety is through meditation. Studies abound on the ability of mindfulness and controlled abdominal breathing to significantly lower levels of stress hormone, cortisol. I don’t believe in prescribing antidotes at this point in time because you don’t
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need my advice – or anyone’s who isn’t a health professional. I read a poem online the other day that was just about the best description of what this quarantine period is – something that means something different for everyone. Some are happy to bond at home; others are having marathon Netflix sessions. Yet others are cooking beautiful food, listening to live-streamed concerts, while the workhorses drudge on as though it were just another day. “You do you,” as they say in Los Angeles.
things you can control at the moment – for instance, by working hard, concentrating on personal projects, or reducing your risk of infection by hand washing. But we have heard this all before and our initial sanitiser gel bottles are probably empty by now. There are many ethical and moral questions being brought to the fore in social media right now. There are those who, like Bill Gates, insist that tragedies wake society up and spur a major paradigm change in everything from the way we eat to how we work. Somehow, that does not reduce the pain of many. Then there are those who never cease to compare. “Others have it worse… Anne Frank hid in a tiny attic for 761 days, trying to remain undiscovered to stay alive.” Without a WAITING FOR A BETTER DAY doubt, Anne Frank’s sad demise stings Nobody needs to be told that more than ever today. If ever there was loneliness is debilitating, or that if you a time that children could dare to step are feeling anxious, a home Zumba into her shoes, it is right now. session or breathing session will help. Everything that needs to be said We all know someone we love who about conquering loneliness and is all alone right now. We know we anxiety (read, breathe, call someone should be touching base often and we up, stay active, create, rest, watch are. Those who are alone know that something uplifting) has been said. connecting with others is important What else can we add? Most of us will but they may not feel like doing so hopefully prevail and one day we will on a given day; they may feel like feel the warmth of each other’s touch putting every fibre of their being into and look into each other’s eyes, and it creating a beautiful painting – one won’t be by video. Until then, I am here bursting with leaves, flowers, and an and you are there and it is enough to image of themselves with eyes closed. know that. e Experts suggest focusing on the
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CONTROLLED
BREATHING
AN AID AGAINST ASTHMA
WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS
P
ranayamic breathing, an ancient method utilised by yogis and Buddhists the world over, has been the subject of many studies over the past decade, with scientists coming to surprising findings about its benefits. One 2018 study by researchers at Trinity College Dublin found that there is a powerful link between how you breathe and your ability to focus. The study showed that pranayamic breathing directly affects the levels of a natural chemical messenger in the brain called noradrenaline – which is key to helping the brain grow new connections. Another study found that students undergoing high stress levels can combat this naturally simply through controlled breathing. Abdominal breathing can also cut a panic attack in its tracks, thereby making it a very useful aid for people of all ages with asthma.
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WHAT IS CONTROLLED OR PRANAYAMIC BREATHING?
If you want to experience controlled breathing by diving straight into it, we recommend the apps Breathe, Headspace, or Calm. These provide various exercises and some can be undertaken in just 5 minutes. The exercises invite you to inhale for a specific number of seconds, then exhale for an even longer time. As you do so, your heart rate and blood pressure is reduced, your cortisol (stress hormone) levels drop, and you begin to feel a sense of calm. Pranayamic breathing is currently being used by everyone from asthmatics (who use this mindfulness-based method to control the amount of oxygen that enters their system and to boost their lung capacity) to people with anxiety.
PRANAYAMIC BREATHING AND STRESS
People who are in the midst of an asthma attack have much in common with someone who is having a panic attack. Fear can take hold, and the person can take in too many short breaths, thus flooding their system with oxygen. An asthma attack occurs when the bronchial tubes constrict and become filled with mucus. This can result in anxiety, headache, and sometimes, loss of consciousness. When one feels an attack coming on, the tendency can be to try to combat this event by breathing more. When oxygen levels rise too high in the blood, muscles can contract, the heart rate rises, and breathlessness can increase. The sensation is one of only being able to inhale a small amount of air – and this in turn can lead to further panic.
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CONTROLLED BREATHING VS ASTHMA asthma, implicated as triggers for
As stated in a study by Mike Thomas and Anne Bruton (published in the journal Breathe), psychological dysfunction is up to six times greater in people with asthma. Neuroimaging studies have shown that the brain structures involved in breathlessness are related anatomically and functionally to those processing emotions. A person’s emotional state can also influence immunological responses – for instance, to allergens in the air. They stated: “Hyperventilation and other abnormalities in breathing have also been associated with
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bronchoconstriction and the production of asthma-like symptoms in patients of all levels of objective asthma severity.” Because controlled breathing can reduce hyperventilation and stress, it is a vital tool for anyone who is battling asthma.
EXERCISES FOR ASTHMA
The study by Thomas and Bruton found that ‘normalising’ breathing patterns using a slower breathing rate and longer exhaling, could help. The aim should be to expand the abdomen (not the chest) as you let in air, and to ‘empty the balloon’ as you exhale. People with asthma do “tend to over-breathe,” say scientists, which is why learning to control their breathing is important. The scientists concluded that, “There is now a compelling body of evidence showing that instruction in fairly simple breathing exercises provided by a trained
therapist can improve patients’ experience of their disease and reduce their reliance on rescue medication.� Although apps and online information can be useful, professional help is important to ensure the honing of correct technique and to avoid falling prey to misinformation.
TREATMENTS FOR ASTHMA
People who have moderate to severe asthma commonly require medications such as
rapid bronchodilators; these relax the muscle bands that surround the airways and open constricted airways during an attack. Doctors often recommend the use of this medication five to 15 minutes before exercise. Sometimes, long-term controller medications are recommended, as is physical activity (to strengthen upper body muscles and mobilise mucus). Eating a balanced diet is vital, so as to stay at a healthy weight. All these factors together
with controlled breathing can help you become stronger and more in control of the situation. If you have asthma it is, above all, important to see your doctor and follow your asthma-fighting strategy to a tee. Breathing can help but it is just one of many factors in what should be a multifaceted, doctor-controlled approach. e
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ORGANIC BEAUTY ITEMS TO
GO GA-GA OVER If you love nothing more than skincare made with lush, fragrant products sourced from organic and natural ingredients, try out these top items, perfect for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS
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1 TATA HARPER CLARIFYING CLEANSER
A 100% natural, non-toxic clarifying cleanser that is especially made for those with blemish-prone skin. i www.tataharperskincare.com
2 DRUNK ELEPHANT T.L.C. SUKARI BABYFACIAL
Drunk Elephant is arguably one of the most highly soughtafter products, owing to its reputation for sustainability and its firm commitment to using organic products. Sukari Babyfacial is selling bigtime in the U.S. and Europe. Boasting a blend of AHA and
BHA acids, it resurfaces and clarifies skin, and is incredibly smooth and silky. i www.drunkelephant.com
3 ISUN RHASSOUL-CRYSTAL FACE & BODY EXFOLIANT
An ultra luxurious product made with wildcrafted, organic, natural ingredients. Rub on skin while in the shower and marvel at the baby-smooth result. i www.isunskincare.co.uk
4 ANNABEL JAMES BLUEBELL BEEFAYRE ORGANIC SOAP
A deliciously fragranced triplemilled, cold processed soap
made from an organic soap base. Naturally coloured, with no petroleum based dyes. This lovely product is gently fragranced with essential oils of bluebell. i www.annabeljames.co.uk
5 ANNABEL JAMES BEE LIPPY PEACHES & CREAM
Lips need plenty of loving care if they are to remain smooth and kissable. Delight in this lovely and quickly absorbed lip balm that smells like a recently picked peach. The balm also comes in sweet orange and clementine flavour. i www.annabeljames.co.uk
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the pro
MOST PEOPLE MAY BE IN ISOLATION, BUT THEY CAN STILL LOOK TO THE FUTURE AND DREAM OF THE HOMES AND LIFESTYLES THEY WOULD LIKE TO HAVE. REAL DE LA QUINTA AND AEDAS HOMES ARE TWO REAL ESTATE PROJECTS THAT CONJURE UP LUXURY, COMFORT, AND THE ESSENCE OF THE MARBELLA LIFESTYLE. FINANCE-ORIENTED READERS CAN LEARN MORE ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF BREXIT, WHILE THOSE CONCERNED WITH LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS CAN ‘READ ALL ABOUT IT’ IN OUR ENTERPRISE SECTION.
GO TO PAGE 152 REAL DE LA QUINTA
GO TO PAGE 164 FOR FINANCE
GO TO PAGE 158 ADEAS HOMES BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROPERTY FINANCE LAW
152 Real De La Quinta 158 Aedas Homes 164 Finance – Know Your Client + Brexit 172 Enterprise
GO TO PAGE 172 FOR THE LOCAL VIBE & ENTERPRISE NEWS
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REAL DE LA QUINTA
VALLEY RESORT LIVING La Quinta was first developed by the Pascual family as a country club residential area in the undulating land between Benahavís and Nueva Andalucía. Over the years, they have created an elegant destination here, where villas and luxurious apartments radiate outwards from the La Quinta golf course and five-star hotel. Today, Real de La Quinta represents an exciting new chapter in this process, as four decades of experience are brought to bear upon the creation of a new landmark residential country club resort surrounding golf and a manmade lake. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LA QUINTA GRUPO INMOBILIARIO
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Spectacular ambience on the penthouse terrace – nature and views
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he Pascual family, famous for creating one of Spain’s largest dairy companies, hails from the north of the country. Like others from chillier northern climes, they gravitated towards Marbella and fell in love with it, acquiring a large tract of land in the area where the municipal boundaries of Benahavís and Marbella meet. Here they had discovered a little paradise made up of green valleys and rolling, wooded hills. It seemed the perfect place to create a country club environment in the American style. The result is Urbanización La Quinta Golf, a luxurious residential area
Borja Pascual, CEO of La Quinta Grupo Inmobiliario
dominated by villas and dotted with attractive apartment complexes set within lush gardens. The properties follow the flow of the La Quinta golf courses, looking out over them and beyond wooded hilltops towards Marbella and the sea. The ambience is a pleasant blend of rustic, residential and resort in a location that is only a few minutes from Marbella yet also within easy reach of open countryside. It’s a formula for success that has made Urb. La Quinta Golf one of the region’s prime addresses, and now the inspiration for Real de La Quinta.
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back to CONTENTS Work is in progress to create an outstanding infrastructure
REAL DE LA QUINTA
Situated a little further in, Real de La Quinta occupies a country setting of 200 hectares where wooded hills flank a broad, green valley that will form the heart of the community. The focal point of this resort development of stylish apartments and villas will feature – apart from marvellous sea and mountain views – the largest manmade lagoon on the Costa del Sol with non-motorised water sports, around which many of the resort’s amenities will be clustered. These include a 6-hole golf course designed by Ryder Cup winner, Manuel Piñero, with multiple tee and flag positions allowing for 18-hole configurations ranging from pars of 66 to 72 with individual 3, 4 and 5 par holes, a racquet club, equestrian centre, a Lake Club and a boutique hotel, as well as on-site shops and dining facilities.
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The architectural stylish of the Quercus apartments has been very popular
“We have always moved with the times, and Real de La Quinta reflects this,” says Borja Pascual, CEO of La Quinta Grupo Inmobiliario. “For us, the blend of beautifully styled contemporary homes with natural touches, a five-star lifestyle environment, a magnificent setting and a full commitment to creating a sustainable project are the ultimate form of property development. With the technologies now available to us, it feels like the industry has finally come of age, and this is the environment we like to work in and excel at.” The scale of the land means Real de
La Quinta will be developed in phases and contain its own master plan, so everything from the roads to the security system, the landscaping, amenities and architectural evolution can be coordinated to be effective, attractive and harmonious. “We’re very aware of the fact that in Marbella, one doesn’t merely offer lovely homes or even a great setting, but that it all has to amount to a special lifestyle. This quality of life is fortunately also tied in to nature, wellbeing and sustainability, so ours is the first BREEAM certified project in Spain.”
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NATURE AND AMENITIES Though Marbella and the shoreline are about ten minutes away, Real de La Quinta occupies a beautiful country setting that feels private and immersed in natural beauty. “The setting is inspiring, bringing hiking and country outings within easy reach. We want nature to envelop you in its soothing beauty, so our masterplan envisages not just gardens and parkland areas, but also natural greenery made up of indigenous species that rise to pine groves in the more mountainous parts of the terrain.” Skirting the lake and golf course,
g Avda. Tomás Pascual 6, Of. 6, Urb. de La Quinta Golf, Benahavís. Tel: (+34) 952 762 400. inmo@grupolaquinta.com www.realdelaquinta.com
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therefore, is a walking and jogging trail that runs through its own park zone fringed by natural greenery. The architecture of the first two projects, Olivos and Quercos, reflects this, blending stylish contemporary lines with softer elements, a low-rise structure and natural materials such as stone and wood. “We consciously stayed away from white cubic designs because we wanted to create homes that blend in with their natural setting and exude a sense of harmony while being luxurious and refined.” Borja Pascual and his team have
strived to ensure the right balance in this while also offering the latest technologies, comforts and open-plan living that makes the most of the fantastic views. The success of Olivos, and now also Quercus, reflects just how much buyers appreciate this approach, as well as the amenities and ambience created at Real de La Quinta. Innovation is another thing for which Real de La Quinta stands out, for it committed itself to a different kind of architecture before it became the trend, and leads the way in sustainable development. This drive to offer the best they can
has also led to the creation of smaller apartment blocks in which each property occupies a corner, enjoying more space and ensuring optimal views. “We try very hard to design something special and make Real de La Quinta an exceptional residential resort environment in which to live, visit and enjoy a superb quality of life.� In this setting, so close to Marbella but bordering a UNESCO nature reserve, the conditions are being created for a very special way of life that blends the best of Marbella with touches of Andalusian country living. e
rials y natural mate lit a u q h it w r rio open-plan inte Contemporary
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AEDAS HOMES
PROPERTY DEVELOPERS FOR A NEW ERA WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF AEDAS HOMES
Now one of the leading homebuilders in Spain, AEDAS Homes belongs to a new generation of developers that are helping to raise the standards of design, construction and innovation in the industry.
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here was a time when property development on the Costa del Sol was largely the domain of relatively small builders and investors. But no longer, for in the wake of the global financial crisis, the investor-developer financed in part by banks has been replaced by more efficient and corporate entities. AEDAS Homes is the latter – a mature company which is a serious player with
diversified real estate projects across Spain and a stock flotation on the Madrid exchange. “We belong to a new generation of highly professional companies that approach property development as a serious, on-going business, not a shortterm opportunity,” says José Ignacio Fernández, head of operations on the Costa del Sol for the company that says it is in the home-making business, not merely construction.
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José Ignacio Fernández, Regional Director of AEDAS Homes on the Costa del Sol
AEDAS Homes is a firm which is active throughout Spain, but naturally the Costa del Sol is an important segment in its own right. “The beauty of a company like ours is that we have the professional resources and level of expertise to create a wide range of residential property types that are divided into different price segments and locations, which means we design both primary residences and luxury second homes.”
A NATIONAL COMPANY ON THE COSTA DEL SOL
As regional director for this area, José Ignacio is responsible for ten projects currently underway in an area between Sotogrande on the one extreme, and east of Málaga on the other. “Marbella and Málaga are two of the gems in this area, and we pay special attention to create properties here that embody their unique setting and lifestyle.” While immersing itself in the local architecture, way of life and natural surroundings, AEDAS Homes builds upon central principles.
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The lifestyle-orientated development of Soul Marbella
“Some of the values behind the company may sound old-fashioned, like integrity and a high degree of ethics, but others, like a drive for transparency, innovation and efficiency, have a more modern ring to them.
In this as in everything, we strive to find a harmonious balance between traditional elements and new ones.� It is a philosophy that he is in charge of maintaining and embodying through such projects as Soul Marbella.
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SOUL MARBELLA
Soul Marbella is a new landmark project in Santa Clara to the east of Marbella, where AEDAS Homes will create a lifestyleorientated community of luxuriously appointed single-family villas and modern apartments on a substantial tract of land. "Working with a large area means we have the ability to create not just a single complex here, but actually design a master plan and shape the amenities, landscaping and homes accordingly.” This will be done in several stages, with each adhering to seven key points: creating designer homes, sustainability, innovation, customer orientation, an agile and flexible organisation, a commitment to finding the best locations and decentralisation. In all, 200 properties will be built here to form a true community, representing an investment of €150 million. “Soul Marbella is designed by González & Jacobsen. It represents our signature project on the Costa del Sol, endowed with a beautiful location that is peaceful and exclusive, yet close to access
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roads and beaches.” AEDAS Homes wants Soul Marbella to represent a watershed in how property development is taken to the next level, and thanks to the company’s exhaustive and on-going market research, they have the wherewithal to accurately respond to buyers’ needs.
EARLIER SUCCESSES
However, the company doesn’t have it all to prove as it can build upon the success of recent projects such as South Bay Las Mesas and Vanian Gardens. Here, in Estepona, AEDAS Homes has created the first stages of another landmark project with the homebuilder’s signature stamp on it, producing homes that combine the best elements of modern design and technology with location, views and quality both of product and service. “Every business is a service company these days, and in our case, we’re not just building bricks and mortar, but creating the environment in which people can realise their lifestyle goals.”
Part of the success behind such projects is the fact that the decentralised way of working allows José Ignacio and his team to operate with local professionals and harness their regional expertise. “This means AEDAS Homes doesn’t have the ‘one size fits all’ approach typical of larger corporations and some international property funds, but creates bespoke, diversified projects that use local inspiration to produce a unique ambience and appeal.” Right now, they form part of a growing Costa del Sol portfolio in Marbella, Estepona, Málaga, Fuengirola and Rincón de la Victoria. “At South Bay Las Mesas in Estepona we have again succeeded in finding a superb location with fantastic sea and country views that is private yet also close to all amenities,” says José Ignacio. The first of three phases, 47 apartments in all, is being delivered to buyers right now, and echoes the AEDAS Homes drive to create something unique adapted to each setting. “Different markets have different characteristics and requirements, and we
Open flow and quality of Ibiza Breeze House
believe it is our remit to tailor to this with the devotion and enthusiasm this deserves.”
LA ZAGALETA LUXURY
In addition to larger-scale projects, AEDAS Homes also applies its flexible approach to the creation of beautifully styled oneoff villas in prime locations such as La Zagaleta, one of the most exclusive residential country clubs in Europe. Ibiza Breeze House and Villa Capriccio are fine examples of this, designed, built, landscaped, decorated and ready to move into – the very essence of a modern villa in the sun and easily on a par with the best you will find anywhere in the world. “This applies to the design, materials and technology used, the construction quality, dressing and finishing,” says José Ignacio, for whom creating homes of this standard in such a beautiful location is a creative privilege.
g Tel: (+34) 951 550 261. www.aedashomes.com
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KNOW YOUR CLIENT (KYC)
LEGAL OBLIGATIONS All professionals involved in the purchase and sale of real estate properties must comply with their obligations with regard to the prevention of money laundering. Real Estate Agents, Lawyers, Property Developers and Credit and Financing Institutions must abide by the obligations imposed under Law 10/2010, of 28 April, on the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism, and to its relevant Regulations. WORDS JOSÉ LUIS ROJAS, LAWYER AND PARTNER VOGT ADVOKATFIRMA ESPAÑA SL
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he obligations imposed on those professionals by the Law are based on the ‘due diligence’ principle, in the sense that, as individuals obliged by law, they are responsible for adopting relevant measures in order to detect and report any signs of money laundering crimes committed by their clients. The purpose of the above is to prevent and report any transactions associated with any possible money laundering to the Executive Committee of the Spanish Commission for the Prevention of Money Laundering (Servicio Ejecutivo de la Comisión de Prevención del Blanqueo de Capitales (SEPBLAC)).
CLIENT IDENTIFICATION
In the case of individuals, the Lawyer must request the relevant Tax ID Card, ID Card or Passport issued by the authorities of their country. Legal entities must
be identified by their Deed of Incorporation. In this latter case, any individual acting on behalf of the legal entity or company must be also identified.
ACTUAL OWNER OF THE BUSINESS
Lawyers must identify the individual on whose behalf they are acting, before accepting any professional engagement. A signed statement by the individual who is hiring the lawyer (KYC form) will be sufficient, but information may also be obtained from reliable thirdparty sources.
BUSINESS PURPOSE.
Specific knowledge of the professional or business activity of our client is required. To that end, the supporting documents provided by our clients must be reviewed or consultations made with reliable independent sources.
LEGALITY OF THE FUNDS USED.
The required documents must be gathered to support the lawful source of the funds, their traceability, i.e. the path followed by the money from the time it leaves its country of origin to the time it arrives in Spain, and finally, the purpose of the funds. Lawyers, in particular, are obliged to: formally identify their clients and the actual owners of the respective business and/or transaction; know the business carried out by their clients and verify the authenticity of the related documents provided by them; and especially, in real estate transactions, to check the legitimate source of the funds used. One of the most commonly used methods for the prevention of money laundering and terrorism financing is the ‘Know Your Client (KYC)’ process, which
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THIS PROCEDURE IS CARRIED OUT AS A ‘DUE DILIGENCE’ OF THE CLIENT, BASED ON A PRIOR INVESTIGATION WHICH DISCLOSES DETAILS OF HIS/HER PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LIFE
or representing them, and the Lawyer’s obligation in respect of preventing money laundering. In respect of anyone will support the information using the obligation of given by the client when professional secrecy to registering. justify being obscure in their Completing and signing activities or, simply turning the KYC forms produced by a blind eye in order not to the individuals participating lose clients, the anti-money in a real estate transaction is laundering regulations are not sufficient. All information very clear: professional supplied by clients must secrecy cannot be claimed be carefully checked by in certain circumstances duly assessing the relevant related to money laundering supporting documents and terrorism financing, provided. and Lawyers must always At the same time, we comply with their obligations should not lose sight of the regarding the prevention of ongoing conflict between money laundering, which the limits of a Lawyer’s duty must be construed in the of confidentiality in respect strictest sense, without of the information furnished including any that go beyond by their clients in the sale those included in Act and purchase of property 10/2010. and in which the Lawyer In this context, the role of has participated by advising your Lawyer is absolutely 166 / APRIL 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM
essential, as a catalyst for all information related with the prevention of money laundering which must be furnished by a client taking part in a real estate transaction, and as defender of the confidential nature of that information in respect of the obligations of other agents involved in the transaction for the same client. The Lawyer will ensure the strictest KYC process as required by law, will advise the Client regarding the documents to be provided in order to follow the antimoney laundering protocol, and at the same time, they will be the intermediary between the client and the other agents involved in the transaction to ensure they comply with their respective obligations on prevention. i www.vogtlaw.com
MAIN TAX IMPLICATIONS OF BREXIT FOR BRITISH CITIZENS IN SPAIN
Four years following the referendum concerning the exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union, on 31st of January 2020, Brexit became a reality. For this reason, and especially for British citizens who are residents or are property owners in Spain, it is important to take into account the tax consequences that Brexit implies. WORDS ROCÍO LEDESMA RIBOT PÉREZ DE VARGAS ABOGADOS - LAWYERS
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urrently, we are in a transition period until the 31st of December 2020. During this period, the UK will remain in the EU’s customs union and single market, providing the final
opportunity for those British nationals living in Spain to formalise their legal status in order to benefit from EU citizens’ status. Therefore, the tax consequences that Brexit
involves will not come into force until the 1st of January 2021. A pact could be made between Brussels and London to extend this transition period for a maximum of two more years, with
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the 30th of June 2020 being the final date to negotiate this extension. Hereunder, we will summarise the main consequences that will have an impact on Income Tax and other specific taxes.
NON-RESIDENT INCOME TAX
RocĂo Ledesma Ribot PĂŠrez de Vargas Abogados - Lawyers
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This tax is applicable to the income obtained in Spain by non-resident citizens. Z British citizens who have to declare their income through the IRNR, will start to pay their taxes on a 24% rate instead of the 19% applicable to UE citizens. Z If the non-resident citizen has a property that is being rented in Spain, he/she would have to pay tax on the total income obtained, without the possibility of deducting any expenses. This will be the scenario unless, in the negotiations, the UK stays in the European Economic Area. Z In relation to Capital gains obtained from the transmission of properties, tax exemptions for re-investment on the main residence will not be applied. Z It will not be applicable the exemption of the interests and similar revenues obtained by the
transfer of own capital to third parties, as well as the capital gains that result from the moveable capital. Z Also, the possibility of applying an optional tax regime like a taxpayer of the IRPF, which is established for residents in other countries of the European Union but with dominant incomes in Spain, disappears.
IRPF: TAX APPLIED TO THE INCOME OBTAINED BY THE TAXPAYERS IN SPAIN
Z Residents in Spain who make contributions to pension schemes in the UK cannot apply the tax benefit from this contribution in the declaration. This is because such schemes would not be regulated by the European directive 2003/41/CE on the activities and supervision of institutions for occupational retirement provision. Z If a British citizen is resident in Spain and decides to transfer their residence to the UK, all
the rents pending to be imputated will have to be integrated in the tax base corresponding to the last tax period that shall be declared, losing the possibility that they had until now of presenting a complementary settlement as they would obtain the rents pending to be imputated, without sanction, interests on arrears or a surcharge. Z The lottery prizes and bets organised by entities of the UK that are equivalent to Spanish entities will not be subject to the application of the special rate of 20%, but will be to the general tax rate. The full price will be taxable as a capital gain not derived from transmission. This will be the legal situation unless, in the following months, it is agreed that the United Kingdom stays in the European Economic Area.
WEALTH TAX
Non-resident British subjects in Spain who have to declare this tax will not be able to apply the regulation from the
autonomous community where the highest value of the properties are located, but will instead have to apply State regulation.
INHERITANCE AND DONATION TAX
As well as being determined for the wealth tax, non-resident citizens of the European Union will not be able to apply the regulation of the autonomous community where the properties that are to be inherited are located, having to apply State regulation which is much more onerous. Nevertheless, it is important to highlight that there is bilateral convention to avoid double taxation between the United Kingdom and Spain that will continue in force. For this reason, certain incomes will stop being exempt when internal legislation is applieds, but will be exempt applying the convention (for example, interests). g Tel.: 952 801 431 www.perezdevargas.com rocio@perezdevargas.com
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Friends of the Marbella Club, we’ll always be here. Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa ¡ Telephone (34) 952 822 211 marbellaclub.com
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SOLVILLA OPEN HOUSE Solvilla recently held an Open House event to present Villa Cobre, a luxurious frontline villa nestled in the heart of Marbella’s famous Golf Valley. This private oasis is conveniently close to restaurants, bars, and numerous amenities. It blends the very best of calming nature and high-end design. i www.solvilla.no
“The best journey takes you home” Anonymous
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DÖSS PRESENTS SEASONAL MENU The dedicated team at Döss recently invited selected guests to the tasting of their seasonal menu. Mediterranean and Asian delicacies abounded and Bruno Filippone and his team presented brand new spaces within the complex which are available for special events and parties. i www.dossmarbella.com
“Food is our common ground, a universal experience” James Beard
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SO/ SOTOGRANDE SET TO LAUNCH NEXT YEAR Accor’s luxury lifestyle brand, SO/ Hotels & Resorts and renowned developer Sotogrande S.A. have signed an agreement to open the first SO/ property in Spain. SO/ Sotogrande Resort & Spa will offer guests a luxury stay in an idyllic setting, with top quality gastronomy and vibrant wellbeing offerings. The resort is set to open in the spring of 2021.
i www.accor.com
“The great advantage of a hotel is that it is a refuge from home life” George Bernard Shaw
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COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS
DISCOVER TREETOPS VILLAS CLOSE TO GUADALMINA GOLF
NVOGA Marbella Realty is proud to present TREETOPS Guadalmina Luxury Residences – 23 exclusive homes in Guadalmina alta, alongside Guadalmina Golf and close to San Pedro and Puerto Banús.
NEW WEBSITE FOR URBANÍA
The development features threeand four-bedroom homes with beautiful views, a large terrace, solarium, and private gardens. Living rooms are very spacious and boast a free height of three metres. Kitchens are beautifully designed and equipped with NEFF appliances. i www.nvoga.es
Urbanía, the real estate investment and development company that gave life to Higuerón West 217 among many other projects (including Icon Marbella and Sánchez Blanca), is proud to announce that it has a brand new website. Check it out to find fascinating information on the firm’s student housing concept, coworking spaces, and residential developments. i www.higueronwest.com
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BIOPARC FUENGIROLA DONATES OVER €28.000 TO WORLD CONSERVATION PROJECTS
Philip Lange / Shutterstock.com
The Bioparc Foundation is proud to announce that in 2019 it raised over €28.000 to support different international projects, including that of helping to improve the critical situation faced by the Sabangau forest (home to the largest population of free orangutans). Aid has also been given to the conservation of gorillas. In 2017, Bioparc Fuengirola took on the task of helping the subspecies Coastal gorillas reproduce. i www.bioparcfuengirola.es
VISITS TO ESTEPONA’S ORCHIDARIUM GROW BY 10 PER CENT OVER LAST YEAR
During the last year, some 40,000 people visited Estepona’s impressive orchidarium, which represents a 10 per cent increase over the previous year. The number of international visitors was particularly high, with many hailing from the UK, France, Norway, and
Germany. The reasons for the popularity of this unique space include the wide array of species it houses. Many are unique and difficult to find elsewhere, including phalaenopsis gigantea, euanthe sanderiana and bulbophyllum beccarii. Additionally, over 800,000 people searched online for information relating to the Orchidarium. i www.estepona.es @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 177
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CORONA-AMARAL ARCHITECTS DESIGN 10 LUXURY VILLAS FOR ABAMA
The new promotion by Abama Luxury Residences, called Las Atalayas de Abama, comprises 10 highend homes designed by Tenerife-based architects, CoronaAmaral Arquitectos. The villas are located at Guía de Isora, in the South of Tenerife. They offer dwellers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the neighbouring island of La Gomera. i Further information, www.abamahotelresort.com
BENALMÁDENA MAYOR ATTENDS RE-OPENING OF CUDECA FUNDRAISING STORE IN ARROYO DE LA MIEL Víctor Navas, Mayor of Benalmádena, recently attended the reopening of Cudeca’s charity shop in Arroyo de la Miel. The store was refurbished and now houses a wide range of clothing, shoes, and accessories, all of which
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were donated by the people of Benalmádena. Susan Hannam, Vice-President of Cudeca, told the press that “the stores are an essential resource that enables us to continue giving palliative care both to patients in their homes and to those residing in our Arroyo de la Miel hospice.” i www.cudeca.org
MORE YOUNG PEOPLE real estate bought by BUYING HOMES IN SPAIN AEDAS’ clients dropped The report 2º Perfil del Comprador AEDAS Homes de Vivienda de Obra Nueva indicates that more young people in Spain are buying homes. Aged between 35 and 44 years old, these buyers are usually married and are in the process of purchasing their first family home. The average price of
from €350.000 to €316.000 last year. David Martínez, CEO of AEDAS Homes, noted that “the fact that more younger buyers are interested in new homes is indicative of balance and normalisation in the real estate sector.” i www.aedashomes.com
SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION CAMPAIGN BY INSINKERATOR
American multinational, InSinkErator, has launched a new social media campaign inspired on World Water Day (celebrated on March 22). The company provides useful advice, including the need to close all taps when not in use (leaving the tap open while you are washing up can waste around six litres per minute). It also recommends using a timer in showers, so as to save up to 17 litres of water. InSinkErator additionally announced the launch of the 4N1 Touch dispenser, which allows homeowners to enjoy hot and filtered water in an instant, without the need for plastic bottles. i www.insinkerator.es
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z THE PRO enterprise
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MOJOW FRANCE: COOL DESIGNER ITEMS FOR THE SUMMER
Mojow France is launching their world acclaimed 2020 design selection furniture
GONZÁLEZ BYASS HELPS THE GOVERNMENT FIGHT COVID-19
Wine and spirit makers, González Byass, a family business launched in 1835, has offered its technical and human resources to the government and are now manufacturing sterilising hydroalcoholic and alcohol gels for sanitary purposes. The company wishes to show its solidarity with those who are battling the virus on the frontlines. i www.gonzalezbyass.com
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in the Spanish market, in an effort to provide art and design lovers with a new way to furnish and enjoy their home. Olivier Santini, founder of of the company, says: “We are delighted and excited for this launch on the spanish market. A lot of home owners want to create an indoor/outdoor feeling in their homes but they struggle with finding appropriate furniture.” Mojow’s items are chic, affordable, innovative, suitable for indoor and outdoor living, pet friendly and resistant. They can also be personalised and are easy to assemble and come with a one-year warranty. i Available online via www.HomesetDesign.com Further information, www.mojow-mobiliers.com
NEW TEAM MEMBER AT VOGT LEGAL FIRM
Swedish lawyer Mr Gรถran Rise has recently joined the Vogt Law Firm team of Property Experts, (which specialises in the Scandinavian market). Rise gained vital experience in the profession as a representative and defender in several well-known cases, after joining the Swedish Law Society in 1971. He has had a special interest in business law, international housing divisions and asset transfers since 1999, when he settled professionally in Marbella. This addition will help the Vogt team to complete the highly customised, top-quality advisory service that the law firm aspires to on a day-to-day basis. i www.vogtlaw.com
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z THE PRO solidarity
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STAND
BY ME SOLIDARITY SHINES IN TOUGH TIMES
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WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS
"So shines a good deed in a weary world," said Portia in Merchant of Venice (she actually used the term ‘naughty’ instead of ‘weary’, but I think you would agree the first adjective is far more fitting at this moment in time). Across the globe, incredible actions are taking place – citizens creating drive-bys to give food packages to the needy, neighbours offering to do the shopping for the elderly, and money being donated by celebrities, athletes, entrepreneurs.
Spain and Marbella are no different. We have been reading news on so many wonderful actions, each of which is of a different nature and scale and very much appreciated by one or more groups in the community. These are just a few (thanks to Marie.Noëlle Comunicación for compiling many of these): u LA ORGANIC: Do you remember our report on LA ORGANIC, the Ronda-based extra-virgin olive oil company that contracted no less than Philippe Starck to design its packaging? Well, the company recently donated 120 bottles of its fantastic product to the Red Cross in Málaga. u Family company OFIPLUS has donated 400 acetates to the Parque de Bomberos (fire station), where they will be turned into visors/ facial protectors. Hugo González del Pozo from OirT Centros Auditivos is collecting diving goggles, which can be used as protective masks. He has additionally lent a 3D printer to the Virgen de las Nieves Hospital in Granada. Similar actions
are taking place at the Colegio San José, where Technology teachers are manufacturing visors for hospitals and health centres. u The PLATAFORMA AYUDA COVID-19 MARBELLA Y ESTEPONA is distributing masks, gloves, gels, and hydroalcoholic solutions to high-risk populations. FIV Marbella has donated medical material to the Hospital Costa del Sol. u The CLÍNICA OCHOA is partnering up with individuals to sew and manufacture masks; the initiative is called Aguja Solidaria. u Many companies are working alongside local municipalities to disinfect the streets. These include ATALAYA and LOS ARQUEROS GOLF,
LA ZAGALETA, VILLA PADIERNA, MARBELLA CLUB, and LA QUINTA. u Many local businesses are being severely impacted by COVID-19. Cristina Leyva has created the Facebook platform #MARBELLACONSUME, so companies can inform residents about their services and products. u RESTAURANTE MARHABA on C/ Antonio Cano 28 in Marbella is feeding homeless families every evening at 8:30pm. They are also offering coffee and snacks to members of security and law enforcement agencies. u The FUERTE GROUP of hotels and the PUENTE ROMANO Hotel are also donating food to groups such as the Red Cross and the Hermanitas de los Pobres of Ronda.
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u SWANS SCHOOL students are writing letters to those who are ill and alone. u CANCA COOK has created a Whatsapp group (Tel: 652 080 498) to offer assistance in food purchase and delivery to vulnerable members of society. They are also sharing recipes to prepare at home. Meanwhile, restaurants like Green Village and Grupo Trocadero are bringing clients meals via delivery. u If you are finding it mentally tough to deal with Covid-19, know that there
are various psychological services offering a helping hand. These include Ynti Rojas of SU GABINETE NATURAL, Juande Serrana, and Leticia Aguilar of MĂ LAGA PSICO ABREU. They are giving patients free extra sessions to help quell the panic. u MARĂ?A DEL PARDO is offering Mindfulness sessions to over 200 people via her Instagram page. VICTORIA HERNANDO of ViviFit is offering yoga and Pilates classes for free every afternoon at 6pm.
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u The MARBELLA CLUB Hotel is offering advice on strengthening your immune system; follow their social media channels to learn more. u CONCIERTOSENCASA. COM is a fantastic page where you can find recorded live sessions and concerts from musicians from across the globe. This initiative was inspired by the cancellation of so many concerts owing to the emergency. u #STOPCORONA is a new initiative comprising startups and tech businesses who have
united to analyse data and technology. Investors, entrepreneurs, and tech professionals are offering the fruits of their collective discoveries to the public health system. u #AQUIPINTAMOSTODOS is an initiative by Spanish artists who have opened a gofundme.com page through Helarea (a platform that helps upcoming artists). All funds raised will go to the Fundación Mensajeros de la Paz (who will help families and persons in need). The artists will donate 10 pieces of art to the Foundation.
u Shoe and accessories company CATCHALOT will donate 10% of its sales to research to finding the vaccine for #Covid-19. u The PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE OF SPAIN is working alongside a host of providers (including GoFit and Matrix) to supply athletes with the equipment they need to train indoors. u In Barcelona, the syndicate of street sellers and the brand TOP MANTA are using their installations in Raval to sew robes and masks for hospitals.
u GRUPO GONZALO RESTAURACIÓN Y PLÁSTICOS has donated 5,000 visors to health centres. u Amancio Ortega of INDITEX has provided great help in this tough situation. He has donated hundreds of thousands of masks to hospitals. Meanwhile, the JACK MA FOUNDATION (Ma is the founder of Alibaba) has sent half a million masks and vital health material to health workers.
We have mentioned just a few of the hundreds (probably, by now, thousands) of companies and groups doing their share. There are many opportunities for you to lend a helping hand. Together, we will beat this.
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the gourmet
IF YOU HAVE BEEN USING SOCIAL MEDIA THESE DAYS, THEN YOU KNOW THAT ONE OF THE THINGS PEOPLE SAY THEY MISS THE MOST IS EATING OUT. START DRAFTING YOUR BUCKET LIST OF TRENDY DINING SPOTS, DISCOVER THE LATEST FOOD TRENDS, AND READ UP ON ONE RESTAURANT YOU SHOULD DEFINITELY STEER CLEAR OF – LE POISSON D’AVRIL, REVIEWED BY THE GASTRONOMICALLY DISAPPOINTED IAIN BLACKWELL.
GO TO PAGE 194 GOURMET BYTES
GO TO PAGE 198 OLIVE OIL
GO TO PAGE 188 FOOD TRENDS
GO TO PAGE 204 TEMPRANILLO WINE
RESTAURANTS REVIEWS NEWS GASTRONOMY CHEFS WINE 188 Food Trends 190 Le Poisson D'Avril 194 Gourmet Bytes 198 Hacienda De Colchado Olive Oil 204 Tempranillo Wine
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N E R T D O O F P TO E T I T E P P A R U O Y T E H W L L I W T A TH e things eternity, one of th e an for what seems likenjoying a meal out. Visiting e om h at en be e ’v t is If you forward to the mosout for a romantic Michelin-starreding a ok lo y bl ba ro p u l yo as bar or going al made of. Start mak your favourite tapoubtedly the stuff that dreams are can tuck into delicious experience is und efully won’t be too long before you These are a few hot bucket list… it hopby top restaurants across the globe.D BY MARISA CUTILLAS treats influenced ch out for in the meantime. COMPILE food trends to wat
PLANT-BASED DELIGHTS led many to ve Recent world events ha
gan
ption and in fact, question meat consum crisis affecting way before the current foods were the world, plant-based industry hard. already hitting the food e Game Changers Documentaries like Th consume a vegan showed athletes could diet and excel at sports (even win Olympic medals),
w delicious ve while others revealed ho foods can be.
FLEXITARIANISM
the health benefits The new awareness of of plant-based diets and animal friendliness into a major trend. has turned flexitarianism g for a ‘light’ transition Some families are optin Mondays; others are by embracing meatless oiding meat and going pescetarian and av duction of meat can chicken. Even a small re terms of giving your make a big difference in heart a health boost.
MOCKTAILS
Around 66 per cent of millennials have said they intend to make a conscious effort to reduce their alcohol consumption, according to a Nielsen Study. Mocktails give the body a break, providing it with a natural detox and filling it with nutritious ingredients such as fresh fruits and sugar-free, freshly squeezed juices. A club soda base, a dash of freshly squeezed juice and a few slices of fruit make for colourful, refreshing drinks that practically anyone can make. 188 / APRIL 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM
NDS PROBIOTIC FOODS
Recent studies (carried out just last year) showed that there is a powerful connection between the gut and mind. Feeding your gut high-fiber and probiotic foods enables the right bacteria to grow. A healthy gut microbiome helps keep inflammation at bay but also fights depression, anxiety, and obesity.
FILIPINO BBQ
Filipino BBQ has been a revered food since I grew up in Manila in the 1980s and it is amazing to see it take off in such a big way. Its recent appearance on BBQ Dreamz on the BBC led barbecue lovers to sit up and take notice of this unique pork, flame-grilled on a stick following marination beforehand in soy sauce
LESS ADDED SUGAR
Chefs across the globe are making a concerted effort to reduce the sweetness of everything from desserts to condiments. They are not replacing sugar with stevia or artificial sweeteners, but rather, encouraging the palate to appreciate sweetness as it occurs naturally in fruit and vegetables like sweet potatoes. Taste is not being compromised, however; there are so many natural ingredients (think orange juice, bananas, Medjool dates) that deliver a sweet punch without the need to add a drop of sugar. Even these ingredients will be used sparingly, since this new and sweet movement revolves around re-educating ingredients the palate so it ceases to crave such as 7-Up! sugary sensations.
CBD
Cannabidiol has already been all the rage in skincare and healthcare, but this year it is making its way into the foods we eat. Gourmets will be going ga-ga over CBD gin, hummus, and puddings.
CBD is said to have heart and neuroprotective benefits, but it is also currently used to quell anxiety and depression and to reduce pain.
PEA PROTEIN
Pea protein is shelf-stable, subtle in taste, and ultranutritious and, for this reason, it is already a hot addition to vegan burgers, smoothies, plant-based milks, and many more items. Its popularity is right in line with the booming non-dairy market. Peas are actually more sustainable than almonds and take less water than the latter to grow, which makes them an interesting choice for eco-warriors. e
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A RESTAURANT
TO RESIST
It was a cold and wet night when our party of four arrived at Le Poisson D’Avril but our hopes of a warm welcome were quickly dashed. We entered into a dusky chasm, so dark that we were barely able to make each other out. After some moments when our eyes had adjusted to the gloom we could just about discern our surroundings which were spartan indeed – bare wooden beamed tables which had seen better days vied for our attention with stark chairs that we gingerly tested with our weight. WORDS IAIN BLACKWELL
A
lthough we still couldn’t see into the recesses of the room, it appeared to be deserted without another customer in sight let alone any representative of the establishment. We settled in and waited for service, commenting among ourselves on the total failure of any form of reception. A couple of hours later, our patience was finally rewarded with the approach of a surly waiter who aggressively demanded of us, “Qu’est-ce que vous voulez? We tried to
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explain that we were there for the review article as arranged, but he was having none of it. However the look of surprise on our faces must have had a telling effect for he vanished into the obscurity, returning several minutes later with some questionable looking glasses and a bottle of wine that he proceded to extract the cork from with his teeth. “Voulez vous manger?” he screeched at us before disappearing once again following our uncertain nods in the affirmative.
The wine, which would have substituted as a good salad dressing, kept us occupied for who knows how long until he was back with four plates of something that vaguely resembled food. On discussing its relative merits, we decided that it tasted somewhat as we imagined sautéed sand served in snakeskin would have. We resolved to request to see the menu on our solitary waiter’s next appearance and concluded that the strongest among us would be the one to deliver this petition. As it transpired, this was superfluous when, eventually, what appeared to be our main courses arrived unsolicited. Once again, four fairly identical-looking plates were thrashed down on our table, completely cracking the porcelain of one of them and perhaps accounting
for why a couple of the others appeared to be held together with tape beneath the offerings they bore. At this point we decided to play a game of seeing who could identify what we had been served, but quickly had to abandon this frivolity when it became clear that we were unable to determine whether in fact it was a meat or a fish dish. Whatever it’s constitution, it would have given boot leather a good hiding in terms of which was the most tender. Having been singularly unable to appreciate the delicacies of the house, we were unanimous about foregoing dessert and making an expeditious exit from the premises when, looming out of the dark, a tall bearded figure in a chef’s hat swung a vicious meat cleaver onto our table with such ferocity that it simultaneously collapsed
into firewood in front of us, while screaming at us, “Pourquoi ne mangez vous pas mon mignon à la lava?” We stood up quickly, apologising profusely and began edging towards where we vaguely remembered the door being located. As we bridged a column of cockroaches marching towards the kitchen, the enraged chef hollered after us words to the effect that, if we did not go ahead with the article in the April issue, we would be receiving his bill for €1.000 for the meal we hadn’t consumed. And that, my friends, is why we are honouring the agreement with this review.
g LE POISSON D’AVRIL
Avda. Día de los Inocentes, Marbella. Tel: Unobtainable www.dontbother.com
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Tel: 952 818 392 www.thaigallerymarbella.com Puente Romano Hotel, Plaza Village, Marbella.
CH
STAY SAFE, SEE YOU SOON ♥
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SUKHOTHAI Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine Tel: 952 770 550 www.sukhothaimarbella.com Marbellamar, L-3A, Marbella. Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00
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GREENPEACE VS MEAT AND DAIRY CONSUMPTION
Greenpeace is asking the EU to reduce
stands at 1.58 kilos per week, which is
its meat and dairy consumption by 71
double the average consumption on a
per cent by the year 2030, to improve
global scale. Greenpeace claims that
the health of human beings and the
“Overconsumption of meat and dairy is
Planet. There is no doubt that the human
wrecking forests, crushing nature, and
relationship to animals will probably
heating the planet.” The organisation
undergo a major paradigm shift,
suggests that the EU should work
starting with the lower consumption of
towards an 81 per cent drop in the
animal products. Currently, the average
consumption of animal products by
European citizen’s consumption of meat
2050. i www.greenpeace.org
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COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS
BALUARTE MUSCAT 2019 WINS GOLD MEDAL IN
SAKURA JAPAN WOMEN’S WINE AWARDS The Japanese wine industry has once again sought to reward wines of outstanding quality at the SAKURA Japan Women’s Wine Award. Over 560 judges gathered together to taste over 4,000 bottles, deeming Baluarte Muscat 2019 (D.O. Navarra made with the Moscatel grape) the winner of the Gold Medal. This wine is straw yellow in colour and boasts a fine, intense, fruity flavour. i www.bodegasbaluarte.com
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STUDY ON FEMALE BEER CONSUMPTION BY HEINEKEN
Heineken has just published the
Sumeria, women were the only
interesting results of their research
ones who could make and sell
on beer consumption by females,
this beverage, so they were in
which show that around 86.6 per
fact the first ‘maestra cerveceras’.
cent of women (vs 88.5 per cent
The Sumerians and Egyptians
of men) drink beer in Spain. The
worshipped goddesses of beer,
Dutch brand has also enlightened
and it is believed that a female
us with additional facts. Did you
beer maker was the first to add
know that women have been
hops into beer (an ingredient
drinking beer for over 7,000 years?
that lends it its characteristic
In ancient Mesopotamia and
bitterness). i www.heineken.com
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CHIVITE AND ARZAK PRESENT FINCAS ROSADO
Chivite Las Fincas Rosado Fermentado en Barrica 2018 is a new wine bearing the seal of a winning duo: Chivite and Arzak. This is a limited, numbered rosé wine and its makers say it fully captures the essence of Finca de Legardeta – the terroir ensconced in Tierra Estrella, just 45 km from Pamplona. Julián Chivite describes it as “a versatile, refreshing wine meant for the moments in which one would normally consume white wine. However, it is full-bodied enough to be enjoyed with light meat or pasta dishes.” The wine is salmon-rose in colour and bears a complex aroma ranging from peach to citrus fruits and white flowers, as well as toasted notes. i www.pereladachivite.com
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The health benefits of olive oil have been touted for decades. This beautiful tasting product, known as ‘liquid gold’ or ‘food of the Gods’ among gourmets, is rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids – compounds that greatly benefit heart health by helping us battle inflammation. Hacienda de Colchado brings these bounties – and a whole lot of flavour – to the table, with three exclusive oils obtained from the centuriesold olive trees that grace the Hacienda de Colchado estate. Legado, Experience, and Malaca Vetus enrich your palate in different ways, with flavours that range from subtle to intense. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HACIENDA DE COLCHADO
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HACIENDA DE COLCHADO A PASSION FOR EXTRA-VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
ABOUT HACIENDA DE COLCHADO
This estate is ensconced in Antequera, known as the ‘heart of Andalusia’ owing to its proximity to Málaga, Granada, Córdoba, and Sevilla. Antequera is home to the UNESCO-protected Dolmens site. Hacienda del Colchado itself occupies the old Counts of Colchado farmhouse – listed as a building bearing historical and patrimonial importance by the Council of Andalucía.
The Hacienda produced cereals and vines from 1679 until the start of the 19th century. Eventually, an olive-grinding mill was built, and olive trees became the Hacienda’s focal point. Most of the building boasted a Baroque air at the turn of the 18th century, with further additions taking place in the 19th century. Hacienda de Colchado measures 310 hectares, some 220 of which house old olive trees. The rest
of the plantation contains newer groves. Together, the trees produce between 800,000 and 1,200,000 kg of olives per year.
AMAZING PRIZES
Hacienda de Colchado has taken home many prestigious prizes, among which are the Gold Medal at the New York International Olive Oil Competition 2019, the Top 100 Best of the World at Evooleum 2019, and Guía Iberoleum 2019.
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THE EXCELLENCE OF LEGADO
This oil is obtained from the Hojiblanca varietal, which is harvested in midOctober – when olives acquire a beautiful yellow tinge that indicates the onset of veraison – the point at which olives change in hue from green to black. At this stage of maturity, only a small amount of oil can be obtained. However, every single drop is worth all the effort since its sensory attribute and chemical qualities are amazing. Legado is housed in a bottle that well merits its place on an elegant dining table. Its rich green hue, elegant fonts and graceful embellishments, make the bottle a wonderful gift for a discerning friend or family member.
THE BALANCE OF EXPERIENCE
Experience is a single Hojiblanca varietal,
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obtained between November and December – when olives have reached their full veraison stage and turned a rich purple-black colour. The oil extracted mixes green and riper tones, showing great balance, both on the nose and in flavour. This is the type of oil that is ideal for all tastes. Experience bears a modernly designed bottle blending pure white with natureinspired inspirations.
THE SUBTLETY OF MALACA VETUS
This oil is made from mature olives – predominantly, the Hojiblanca varietal. It is subtle on the nose owing to its maturity, and bears a sweet taste on the palate. Elegant black is what this bottle is all about – its gentle flavour makes it an ideal choice for diners of all ages. i www.haciendadecolchado.com
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S T A F
PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com
Issue 248 • April 2020
DIGITAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR ANDREA BLACKWELL andrea@essentialmagazine.com
www.essentialmagazine.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com PRODUCTION MANAGER SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com
@essentialmarbellamagazine
@essentialeditor
DESIGN & LAYOUT INMA AURIOLES inma@essentialmagazine.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com
EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICES COMPLEJO LA PÓVEDA, BLQ. 3, 1º A, CN 340, KM 178, 29600 MARBELLA, MÁLAGA. TEL: 952 766 344 FAX: 952 766 343
ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com SALES SUPPORT JAN DENDAUW jan@essentialmagazine.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER KEVIN HORN www.photographermarbella.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS IAIN BLACKWELL, BELINDA BECKETT, MICHEL CRUZ, RUSSELL GRANT, PHILIP HARRIS, ROCÍO LEDESMA RIBOT, JOSÉ LUIS ROJAS, TONY WHITNEY, MARK WILKINS
Member of the Association of Spanish Periodical Publications
affiliated to: www.ultradesignglobal.com
CONDITIONS
The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information published herein, or be held accountable for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages. Marbella Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers, or for the copyright of materials used by them. © Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. for Marbella Magazine. No part of this magazine, including texts, photographs, illustrations, maps or any other graphics may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. Printed on recyclable paper, produced without wood and bleached without chlorine.
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TEMP RAN ILLO
A TRULY IBERIAN GRAPE What do Cencibel, Tinto Fino and Ull de Llebre have in common? They are all different names for Tempranillo growing in different regions of Spain, namely Valdepeñas, Ribera del Duero and Penedѐs respectively. It is the country’s most widely planted red grape and second only to the white grape Airén in acreage under vine, which just goes to show how much of that rather anonymous grape is planted in La Mancha. WORDS PHILIP HARRIS
I
n an era when bottles are increasingly being labelled and recognised by variety, the plethora of names is confusing for the consumer and also makes it difficult for the grape to establish a convenient varietal profile. However, there is method in this madness: the
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same grape cultivated in a variety of regions will adapt according to the conditions in which it grows and produce styles of wine that are not always the same. A comparison could be drawn with the smaller Italian region of Tuscany where Sangiovese is the leading variety.
It is called Brunello in the hilly district of Montalcino and referred to as Morellino in the southwest, where the temperature is generally warmer than the rest of the region, producing a rounder, riper style of wine. Its presence in Chianti, arguably Tuscany’s most well-known wine, is only acknowledged on a back label. Although that wine enjoys worldwide recognition, most consumers would be hard pressed to name the variety that it is made from. The variety that is the mainstay of Rioja, another international wine celebrity, suffers a similar lack of familiarity so I’d like to shed a little more light on this Iberian hero in this article. Tempranillo takes its name from the word ‘temprano’ meaning early, referring both to the relatively early harvest and the budding of the
vines. Even in the cooler and higher regions of Rioja Alavesa and Alta, it can be harvested two weeks before Garnacha grown in the much hotter Rioja Baja. It is possible that the grape was documented in Ribera del Duero as early as the 13th Century, but the reference applies to ‘Las Tempraniellas’ so appears to be a generic listing rather than specifically Tempranillo. Some 600 years later it was noted by Clemente y Rubio as a praiseworthy variety with mention given to Logroño in Rioja and Peralta in Navarra. These neighbouring districts might both be the origin of the variety rather than Ribero del Duero: they are certainly areas where the grape flourishes. It multiplied quickly, albeit from a small amount of clones, most of which were created in these two regions and then spread throughout the country.
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Ribera’s claim to be the birthplace of Tempranillo (where it’s called Tinta del País and Tinto Fino) comes from the possible (even incestuous) relationship between it and the white grape Albillo Mayor. Much of Tempranillo’s history is vague and this connection equally so as it has never been documented which variety was the parent! What cannot be doubted is the geographical spread of the grape. There are probably only three or four areas of Spain where Tempranillo is not the dominant variety. It has not found
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favour in the north and north west of the country where Mencía is popular, nor in the southern region of Andalucía. The enclave of Campo de Borja, Calatyud and Rioja Baja is home to Garnacha. Tempranillo does not like wind or drought which perhaps explains its choice of location or conversely absence but it is a relatively hardy and healthy grape so will survive in arid conditions such as Toro, particularly where the vines have been able to lay down deep enough roots. Across the border in Portugal it is a respected grape; indeed one of the few Spanish varieties that
is. Known as Tinto Roriz in the northern regions of Dão and the Douro and Aragónez in the more southerly district of the Alentejo, it is often blended rather than seen as a selfstanding varietal. The area under vine has increased notably since 2004 and like Spain, the grape thrives at altitude, notably over 600 metres a.s.l. Its presence in Argentina is not a surprise, but the use of DNA profiling has also shown that Tempranillo has been planted in Italy. In keeping with the vagueness that surrounds the variety, it was grown as Malvasia Nera!
Having experienced that grape on a few occasions in Tuscany, I would never have made the connection based purely on taste, but as I wrote earlier, grapes adopt different characters in other settings. Apart from the bewildering number of names it carries, what causes Tempranillo’s inability to be truly respected or recognised in the way that say Syrah or even Garnacha are? I believe much of this comes down to its character. It is fairly gentle in all aspects – not overtly fruity like Cabernet Sauvignon, nor tannic like Monastrell (Mourvѐdre) or
sturdy like Syrah. It’s an unassuming allrounder, not given to eye-catching dramatics so while it is the sole variety in good Rioja such as Viña Alberdi or the crowd pleasing wines of Los Llanos in Valdepeñas, it’s easy to dismiss it as a work horse variety. Tempranillo should really be recognised as a truly unselfish grape worthy of a nomination as ‘best supporting act in a blend’, even if it represents the highest percentage of one. Yes, I know we’ve passed the Oscar season but as we head towards Easter, the role of Tempranillo could vaguely be considered sacrificial.
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If sacrificial is too extreme, chameleon-like would be appropriate. The variety seems to soak up any flavours or nuances of those grapes or oak surrounding it. Its affinity with American oak in Rioja gives it a mild strawberry flavour, whereas in Ribera del Duero, it reflects the spice and sturdiness of the French oak more commonly used there. The softer tannins and lower acidity levels of Tempranillo combine with the more acerbic nature of Mazuelo in Rioja blends. Garnacha on its own might be too alcoholic or flabby, Graciano supremely elegant but scarce, so blending together with Tempranillo freshens up the former and bulks out the latter. It also brings out the best of all these varieties and the supremely select and long-lived Gran Reserva 904 from the La Rioja Alta estate is a classic example of how Graciano is enhanced and
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far more expressive than the rare monovarietal Riojas that one can find. Historically, Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon have been very successful partners, not just in Navarra where its proximity to France led to the introduction of the grape but further afield in Ribera del Duero where the Vega Sicilia and Peñalba Lopez estates had long recognised the beauty of using the sophisticated Cabernet with the more prosaic Tinta del País. It’s easy to forget that most of the current area under vine here has only taken place in the last 40 years, spurred on initially by the influential and all-pervading preference of Robert Parker for ‘big’ wines and an inability of estates to expand in Rioja. The altitude and diurnal temperatures in the region create Tempranillo that has more colour and a fleshier character than those from Rioja but in the
initial days of Ribera’s new popularity in the 1980s, the lower skills of vinification led to blunt, unbalanced wines not worthy of the price tags applied to them. Experts like Tomás Postigo raised the level and created wines with both power and balance, combining judicious use of Cabernet Sauvignon and French oak. The average age of vintages in Ribera is considerably lower than that of Rioja so considerable care and skill is needed to achieve this balance and not to create wines with monstrous bodies and spindly legs (sadly still too often on display around the world). Tempranillo isn’t an attention seeker, but please treat it with the respect it deserves. Happy drinking! e
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RUSSELL GRANT’S Monthly Horoscopes April 2020
Aries
Taurus
You’ll get a chance to study a fascinating subject as March makes way for April. Sign up quickly and make sure of your place as spaces will soon be filled. You should be feeling very pleased with yourself if you are given a greater measure of responsibility at work near the 5th, as well as an increase in pay. Budget cuts on the 7th will seem intolerable; control your temper when discussing them with your boss. It may be best to wait a few days before broaching
the subject. The Full Moon on the 8th will put a strain on a close relationship; your best friend or romantic partner will resent all the time you spend on your career. It will be easier to get your ideas across on the 11th, when you’ll be thinking more clearly about a complicated matter. Don’t challenge any source of authority on the 14th or you could lose out badly or and never regain standing or position. The New Moon on the 23rd attracts a moneymaking opportunity, but it will involve a personal risk.
The start of April presents you with a potential packed opportunity to ask for a pay rise or renegotiate a contract. Use your powers of persuasion to strike a better deal. Your moneymaking ability will result in a nice promotion or high-profile job near the 4th. Reviewing your plans for the future will result in a spiritual breakthrough on the 5th; prepare to undergo a profound personal transformation. The Full Moon on the 8th urges you to get treatment for a nagging ache or pain. You may have to change aspects of your diet and lifestyle. Your star power will reach its full power starting on the 19th; use it to win favours and influence people. Don’t challenge a stuffy leader’s authority on the 21st or you could come to regret it. The New Moon on the 23rd will tempt you to adopt a fashion-forward look. You’ll be delighted with it, but friends may tease you. Embrace your individuality; it’s exciting to stand out from the crowd and be different from everyone else.
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Gemini
Your grace, charm and wit attract admirers wherever you go on the 3rd: this is a wonderful time to think about how you can support friends, neighbours and family. If you’re single, you’ll have your choice of suitors. Do you have a partner? They’ll find you irresistible. You’ll make a name for yourself by being conscientious and painstaking in all your dealings. It helps that you understand other people intuitively. You can negotiate better benefits or a more supportive payment arrangement with your employer on the 7th; but you may have to overcome some initial resistance. On the 8th, the Full Moon marks a turning point in a romance; it’s time to break up or make up, once and for all. Linking to a fashionable organisation will be lots of fun on the 11th; your social network will multiply and grow. On the 23rd, you’ll be tempted to take a lower profile, despite the protests from your friends or fellow workers.
Cancer
A romantic encounter on the 4th will make you feel like you’re making a fresh start. If you’re single, you might meet someone special in a cultivated, cultured secluded setting. If you let your best friend or lover introduce you to something exotic on the 5th; you’ll be in for a delightful surprised. The Full Moon on the 8th warns against getting into a power struggle with a relative. Avoid sensitive subjects like politics, culture and religion; they will only lead to pointless arguments that could rebound and resonate for days or even weeks. Your work-life balance will be thrown off kilter on the 14th; you may have to take time off work for the sake of your loved ones. On the 24th, the New Moon warns against getting romantically involved with a friend. If you’re looking for love, find it with someone outside of your immediate social circle. A former romantic partner will try to reconnect with you towards the end of the month; it’s best to keep them at arm’s length. They’ll only cause headaches and maybe even heartache.
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Leo
As March makes way for April you will find many of your interest and involvements have changed or are changing. If you’re linked to a social network, you’ll make a powerful connection with someone unusual. Are you already in a relationship? Your amour will be proud to have you on their arm. A health regimen that’s begun on the 5th will have a transforming and protective effect on your lifestyle and you will be well pleased with the results. Don’t let a loved one talk you out of accepting an exceptional new opportunity on the 7th; this position is tailor made for you. The Full Moon on the 8th warns against getting into silly arguments on social media. It’s better to walk away from the keyboard than engage in a heated dispute with someone who needs to be right. Your knowledge and experience won’t be valued on the 14th, when a stubborn colleague insists on challenging your every idea. It will be much easier to find career satisfaction starting on the 23rd, when the New Moon highlights your skills and talents.
Virgo
Your determination and intelligence will be obvious to everyone on the 3rd when you will be a decision maker for many. A career success you thought had been put on hold could suddenly move forward on the 4th, when you’re offered a dream job thanks to your exceptional skills. A romance has a profoundly transforming effect on you near the 5th. Your partner may convert your beliefs or inspire you to make beautiful art. On the
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8th, the Full Moon will result in a rather lower income than you expected. You may have to get professional help to get what’s due to you. Things should be sorted out soon and a settlement could be awarded to you on the 11th, when the other party gets cold feet. Learning opportunities abound starting on the 19th as you find your personal world opens up to new insights and influences. The New Moon on the 23rd is ideal for taking centre stage with some innovative and inventive ideas; prepare to hear some criticism from traditionalists who can’t handle modern ways of thinking.
Libra
Why not shut yourself off from the rest of the world at the start of the month? It would be a wonderful time to revisit your hopes and aspirations for the future as well as looking into the past and reconnecting with your roots. If you’re single, you could meet someone special in an online forum; there’s a chance there will be a significant age difference between you. Do you have a partner? Buy them some local artwork that will always remind
them of sentimental and happy times. The Full Moon on the 8th could find you butting heads with a relative who wants you to change your ways. Stand by your principles. Living to please others is an exercise in futility. Don’t let your family criticise your best friend or romantic partner on the 15th, or great resentment will set in. On the 23rd, the New Moon will bring an unexpected opportunity, but you’ll probably have to jump through some official or legal hoops to get your hands on it.
Scorpio If you need it a kind-hearted, generous relative will give you the money for a down payment on a home and you could find a distinctive property on the 3rd. Alternatively, you may get excellent terms on a bank loan. Learning about a foreign culture will change your outlook on the 5th; you’ll become much more sensitive to other perspectives. A wild rebel will disrupt your home life on the 7th; things won’t be quite the same after this character arrives on the scene. On the 8th, you will clash with a bureaucratic organisation, due to a stressful Full Moon. You’ll be forced to submit official documents to get permission to travel or conduct business. An unusual partnership might begin to take shape on the 23rd, much to the disapproval of your friends and family. The New Moon will make this a stimulating but stressful time. Prepare to issue a sincere apology towards the end of April; it’s important to take back hurtful remarks made under stressful conditions. @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 213
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Sagittarius
Could falling in love be a distinct possibility in early April as you cross paths with a witty charmer? If you’re already in a relationship, arrange a romantic evening at home where you can talk freely. The stimulating conversation will pave the way to passion. Taking a challenging online course on the 4th will be a labour of love; you’ll enjoy learning new methods and techniques. A moneymaking opportunity on the 5th could have profound consequences for the way you live your life; even better, it will allow you to think clearly about what you hope to achieve in times to come. On the 8th, a conflicted Full Moon will create drama and you will feel restricted and frustrated. You may decide to part ways with a pessimistic personality. Don’t feel pressured to buy someone’s affection on the 15th. You should be loved for who you are, not for what you can buy. The New Moon on the 23rd will bring an unusual job offer, but you’ll have to be a clever and determined negotiator to get the terms you want.
Capricorn A careful use of resources at the start of the month could help you negotiate your way through the difficult waters of the next few weeks and months. People trust you to be organised and resourceful. If you do a good job, you will win the respect and admiration of all concerned. Getting a position that involves lots of planning and decision making is a strong possibility on the 5th. You’ll enjoy being responsible for your own successes and that of others. On the 8th, the
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Full Moon will make you feel torn between personal and professional obligations. You may have to cancel a pleasant outing at a moment’s notice. Your nearest and dearest will resent any attempts to impose strict rules on their behaviour around the 14th; defuse any tension by not taking what they have to say too much to heart. The New Moon on the 23rd is wonderful for romance. Instead of trying to buy someone’s affection, win them over with your dry sense of humour. Scale back your attempts for a personal transformation on the 25th; you must adapt slowly to changes all around you.
Aquarius
Your love life takes on a more comforting and cossetting feel as March makes way for April; if you’re single, you’ll have to accept that maybe present restrictions will limit your options. If you’re in a relationship, splash out on a lavish gift for your lover. Buy them a token of your affection that is both precious and beautiful. Don’t push a relative into a decision on the 7th, or they’ll always resent you for it. A disappointing legal decision could be made on the 8th, due to a stressful Full Moon.
Instead of dwelling on this setback, change tack and make some new plans. You’ll get such positive, morale-boosting feedback on your careful and considerate contributions to all decisions near the 19th; that you’ll feel like you’re making a very positive difference. It’s important to indulge in sensual pleasures on the 21st, even if you’re on a tight budget. Depriving yourself of life’s little luxuries will make you tired and tetchy. The New Moon on the 23rd is good for forward planning. There might not be a lot you can do right now, but you are ready for when the future opens up once again. An angry outburst on the 26th will be tiring, but liberating.
Pisces
Your home life will be challenging in some ways it will also be rich and rewarding at the start of the month. This would be a good time to do some redecorating and refurbishing. You can also find some beautiful furnishings and artwork online to further beautify your abode. Caring for your nearest and dearest on the 4th will take on much more importance. A well-connected acquaintance will praise your kindhearted thoughtfulness on the 7th; thanks to them, you could land an important opportunity in times to come. On the 8th, the Full Moon will force you to share a sum of money with a large group. Be content with your share. Don’t let self-doubt keep you from launching a creative personal project on the 21st; it’s important for you to save, share and communicate your thoughts. On the 23rd, the New Moon will find you facing off with some stuffy traditionalists. Although the old guard will disagree with you, more visionary types will embrace your ideas. Due to differing views and values you may decide to make some radical and long-lasting changes to the way you live your life on the 25th. @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE APRIL 2020 / 215
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