Olive Press issue 140

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olive pressThe original and only English-language

investigative newspaper in Andalucía

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FREE Vol. 6 Issue 140 www.theolivepress.es July 26 - August 08, 2012

Don’t let thebanks cash in

www.hifx.co.uksee page 11

MELTDOWN

green guide 2012

1

the olive pressgreen guide2012

Hurrah! UK fruit costs triple the price of Spain

Want to carbon offset? Beware of the cowboys

The happy, smiling faces of a low-impact life

Why Arsenal really are a load of old rubbish!

New row after Gib arrests

...but it’s not alldoom and gloom

SPAIN may have received a €100 billion bailout last week in an effort to shore up its banks.But it is difficult to see the figure as

useful for anything other than papering over the cracks of the country’s fragile economy.The seriousness of the situation has been exac-erbated by two regions Murcia and Valencia ask-ing for urgent bailouts from Madrid. And some commentators have even suggested the crisis is the biggest challenge to its demo-cratic system since the death of Franco.Spain’s finance minister has responded by ap-parently begging Germany for a more substan-tial bailout, which could be as much as €320 billion. And the figure looks like an increasingly urgent requirement, despite Spain taking mea-sures to prevent the situation getting worse, in-cluding a temporary ban on ‘short-selling’. But that is only likely to offer a temporary re-prieve, with yields on 10-year government bonds at a hugely unsustainable 7.5 per cent. There is a rescue fund of 700 billion euros avail-able, but the figure needs to be more like two trillion euros to hold the eurozone together.Murcia and Valencia are in trouble because of their exposure to the failed property market. Cataluna is next and with Andalucia arguably just as exposed, the question remains, could it be another domino to fall?

THE Spanish economy has finally come to the brink of collapse threatening to take the euro down with it.Despite the economy minis-ter Luis de Guindos insist-ing on Monday that Spain did not need a full bailout, last night he was on an

POLICE in Gibraltar are deploying extra boats after Spanish officers arrested two British nationals for fishing in waters around the Rock.The two men were detained for two hours on Friday night and had their Gi-braltar-registered boat im-pounded and fishing equip-ment seized.While they were eventually released without charge, Gibraltar has described the arrests as being ‘criminal acts of unlawful detention,

trespass and false imprison-ment’.The incident has speeded up the construction of a new base close to the border to help protect its waters.It also comes just days af-ter a Gibraltarian told local paper Panorama that Span-ish police had fired over a dozen rubber bullets at his pleasure boat, accusations denied by the Guardia Civil.Both incidents have sparked

By James Brycein GibraltarBy Wendy Williams

and Jon Clarke

Analysis by James Bryce

‘emergency mission’ to Ger-many, reportedly asking for further bailout money.It came as stock markets crashed to their lowest level

in 11 years on what was described as ‘Black Mon-day’, with shares plum-metting and the risk pre-mium for Spain at the highest level since the euro was formed.A c c o r d i n g to analyst Carsten Brz-eski of ING bank, events since Friday have been a ‘wake-up call to anyone who thought the Spanish bank rescue package had bought a calm summer for the euro’.It comes as Spain intro-duced urgent measures to stop so-called ‘short sell-ing’ or betting against the markets to

make a quick profit.The measures came in, af-ter the regions Valencia and Murcia asked for urgent bailouts to keep their econo-mies going.

As the Olive Press went to press Cataluna asked for a bailout, with Andalucia also in danger of needing an ur-gent cash injection.The country meanwhile has

vowed that it would clamp down on recent protests that have seen dozens in-jured when police fired rub-

Biggest battle since Franco

Summer ofdiscontent deepens

as ‘la crisis’ comes to a head with urgent bailout plea

FURY: Millions have protested against Rajoy’s cuts around Spain. Here, a badly injured demonstrator gets arrested in Madrid

YES, there are reasons to be smiling....Despite Spain’s economic problems, our exclusive re-search has found that, at the very least, fruit and veg is a third cheaper to buy than in the UK.Read more in our annual Green Guide 2012, out FREE with this issue. What’s more, the sun keeps shining – and, as this issue’s 12-page activity pullout shows - there are plen-ty of great places to go out and enjoy it.

BARKING MAD: Kneeboarding

ACTION: New boat

2 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 2 CRISIS SPECIALSpaniards plummet to ever lower depths to make ends meet

Please help sell my kidney

Mother in desperate plea to Olive Press readers to help raise money from organ sale

EXCLUSIVE by Rund Abdelfatah

A DESPERATE mother-of-five has approached the Olive Press for advice on how to sell her kidney to save her starving family.At just 37 years old, Lidia Garcia Perez is prepared to undergo a life-threat-ening operation to remove her kidney and part of her liver and auction them off to the highest bidder. “‘I’ve tried everything to support my family but nothing works,” she told the Olive Press.“I can’t go on like this un-able to find something to

eat every night,” added Per-ez who has tried her hand at numerous jobs, including waitressing, cooking and housecleaning.“I just hope there might be someone out there prepared to pay for my organs. And I am prepared to go to an-other country to have the operation, if needs be.”Perez, who lives in Madrid with her boyfriend who is also unemployed, ap-proached the paper after spotting our website online.Her whole family are cur-

rently living on just €450 a month and Perez feels that only drastic measures will rescue her family from intense poverty.

Struggling“I don’t have any oth-er choice. It’s clearer than water for me that this is what I should do.”Sadly, Perez is just one of the many peo-ple throughout Spain struggling to subsist amid the increasingly grave economic crisis.While kidneys sell on the black market for around €100,000 it is currently illegal to sell your organs in any part of Europe, and most of the world.Until recently, Turkey was the main Euro-pean hub for organ trafficking - now it is believed to be Russia.Iran is the only coun-try in the world where organ sales are legal and where a kidney can cost as little as €6,000.

FOR SALE: Kidney

THE recession is weighing down heavily on families around the region.But few places are struggling as much as in the Serrania de Ronda, where it is re-ported that over 50 per cent of families

are living off less than €400 a month.According to Maria Aranda, who is coor-dinating a project between the Junta and the EU to help revive the region of seven municipalities, they need urgent help.

ber bullets and charged pro-testors who had set fires on the streets of Madrid.Millions of Spaniards came out in protest in over 80 cit-ies just hours after Mariano Rajoy’s PP government rati-fied the largest cuts in Span-ish history.Workers protesting against the cuts marched with shouts of ‘Hands up, this is a robbery!’ and placards that read: “There isn’t a short-age of money - there are too

Families ‘living off €400 a month’

many thieves.”It marks the culmination of an almost daily series of protests that erupted with the miners arriving in Ma-drid on July 10. Rajoy has c o n f i r m e d m e a s u r e s to save €65 billion by cutting un-employment benefit, get-ting rid of C h r i s t m a s bonuses and i n c r e a s i n g VAT (IVA).“There is no money in the coffers to pay for public ser-vices,” said Budget Minister Cristobal Montoro. “It is time to call a spade a spade. Financing services with more deficit and more debt will doom us.”But critics say the govern-ment’s new austerity mea-sures will worsen conditions for Spaniards already strug-gling to make ends meet.Many families are living on

less than €400 a month (see below) and from September VAT rises to 21 per cent.PP politician Andrea Fabra made the situation worse

when she insulted the unemployed by clapping and saying ‘que se jo-dan’ (f*** them) as Rajoy an-nounced the cuts.Meanwhile a poll in El Pais over

the weekend showed 82 per cent of Spaniards believe public workers have good rea-son to protest with the same number believing the unrest could now spread to other groups.Markets are worried that the latest turmoil is pushing the euro to the brink of collapse. According to one commen-tator, its financial problems make the Greek meltdown look like a ‘tea party’.

Meltdown ‘worse than’ GreeceFrom Page 1

240 billion lost in tax evasionA QUARTER of all fi-nancial transactions in Spain are being done ‘under the table’ ac-cording to tax workers.These tax evasion schemes are costing Spain approximately €240 billion a year.The report by tax work-ers union Gestha found the construction and property sectors are the worst offenders.An estimated €8.6 bil-lion is lost in fraud in-volving the sale of prop-erty, while another €2.1 billion is lost to illegal rentals.Nearly six out of 10 rental agreements - estimated to be over a million - are made without contracts.And most tax evasion occurs within the small business sector - in large part because accounts do not have to be audit-ed, making fraud easier.The union is calling for stricter government reg-ulation to crack down on tax evasion, estimating that it would bring in at least €25 billion for the Treasury.

Crisis at a glance• €100bn bailout approved

with first €30bn this month• Rumours suggest Spain will

ask for a full blown bailout• 10-year borrowing costs

soar to 7.57 per cent• Cataluna joins Valencia and

Murcia in needing a bailout

3www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012NEWS

IT was labelled the biggest flop in BBC history.Yet, 20 years later and soap opera Eldorado is rumoured to be making a comeback.The defunct soap – which has more than recouped its outlay of €12 million through re-runs and sales abroad – could be re-shot in Spain.The ‘sunshine soap’, which was based on the lives of a group of expats living on

HolaGolden comeback rumours for BBC’s biggest flop

By Mason Jones

the Costa del Sol, has been subject of a massive come-back campaign.It has led to BBC Director General George Entwis-

IT was destined to go wrong right from the start.The first time the BBC had ever con-tracted an independent company to

produce a series outside of the UK, it is incredible that they chose the Costa del Crime as the testing ground.Based out of Coin, producers John Dark and James Todesco were given the job of pulling together the biggest soap opera launch for a decade.A former producer of James Bond films, Dark hoped that Eldorado would soon take on EastEnders.Yet, after a few episodes it was hamstrung with an enormous amount of problems and ratings were sinking fast.“The BBC was caught with its pants down,” contends Alhaurin-based Robert Zdrill, who worked as a video editor on the se-ries. “There was lots of mischief going on

and it turned out to be a huge disaster.”The problems were enormous. Poorly-built sets, actors who couldn’t act and poor pro-duction left the drama with three million less than its target 10m viewers. It was eventually axed after one year in March 1993.“To be fair it was rushed through onto the schedules too early,” says Zdrill, who has since produced music videos for the likes of Simple Minds.“The top brass wanted it ready for Expo 92 and there was no way it was going to be ready in time.”In particular, he cites the poor lighting, the set made of breezeblocks which ruined the sound and the ‘abysmal acting’.“On the first night at the launch party, you could practically hear a pin drop it had gone so badly,” he recalls. “It spelt the end of my career and a lot of others too.”

AFTER 15 years together they have been through a lot.But footage of Antonio Banderas getting frisky with a Bollywood beau-ty (above) is said to be driving actress Melanie Griffith to consider di-vorce.It comes after the Mal-aga-born star was seen dancing with Mallika Sherawat aboard Micro-soft billionaire Paul Al-len’s yacht.“Antonio grabbed her from behind, and he was really into the dance,” insisted Mallika’s stylish Ivan Bitton.“I could also hear Anto-nio telling Mallika how beautiful she was,” he added.Banderas also invited Mallika to visit Spain for a holiday, an Indian website reported.But the actor, who was in Marbella last week to open the Starlite festival, has denied rumours of a breakup.It is anything but the first time that the couple have had to deny a break-up.

SPAIN has received top marks in the first ever ‘In-fidelity Olympics’, winning a gold medal in the Tantric Sex category.The country also took home a silver medal for having sex alfresco.The competition was set up by the controversial dating website AshleyMadison.com which helps married men and women experience ‘a discrete adventure’.Other participant coun-tries included Australia, the United States, the UK and nations across South America.

The Body in IbizaBanderas break up?

NELLY Furtado (above) is likely to confuse the majority of her fans when she releases her new album Mi Plan entirely in Spanish.But as the Canadian singer explains: “I love Latin pop music. So it was a natural thing for me to do.”

No comprendo Nelly

BBC was ‘caught with its pants down’

tle, 50, being flooded with emails asking for the show to be re-made.A string of BBC staff have added their support to

Spain wins ‘Infidelity Olympics’

the campaign which was launched by former soap cameraman Paul Davis.Incredibly the €2.2m set is still largely intact in the hills above Coin.Part holiday village, part set, the Ciudad del Cine is hidden in pine trees above the Guadalhorce town.It still counts its own pet-rol station, town hall, vil-lage square, post boxes and phone boxes.One BBC member told the Daily Telegraph: “There are a lot of us who want Eldorado back.

“It was given the chop too quickly and the ratings weren’t that bad and were stabilising just when it was axed, so a lot of people are emailing the new director general to let them know we want it back. “If he is brave enough to bring it back I think he will see record audiences.”

PressureHe continued: “A lot of BBC staff who were around in the 90s have a soft spot for Eldorado and there is mounting pres-sure for it to return. “We also get quite a lot of letters and emails from viewers. Give it a few years and I can see it returning.” A spokesman for the BBC said, however, that there were no plans for the soap to return at present.

AT 48 years old, Elle Macpherson has never looked better, as these photos taken on a short break in Ibiza show.Nicknamed ‘The Body’, the model and host of Brit-ain’s Next Top Model showed off her figure in a white bikini aboard a luxury yacht. She was accom-panied by her two sons and finan-cier boyfriend Roger Jenkins.

FOR SALE: Kidney

SUNNY DELIGHT: The Eldorado set is largely intact while (top left and top right) some of the main characters

HOPE: It’s unknown if stars (above) from the ‘Sunshine soap’ could return

4 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 4 NEWS

EXCLUSIVEby Wendy Williams

outrage among politicians, with Gibraltar vowing to defend itself by ramping up secu-rity in the waters around the Rock. “I am shocked by the disgraceful behaviour of the Spanish Guardia Civil,” said Foreign Office Minister for Europe David Lidington. “Such action is intolerable and unlawful.”The Gibraltar government meanwhile con-demned the Spanish authorities for confis-cating fishing equipment, insisting that the boat’s owners were not fishing illegally.

It also accused Spanish police of turning off navigational lights on both the fishing boat and their own craft in a deliberate attempt to avoid detection.“Gibraltar condemns the actions of the Span-ish Guardia Civil,” insisted a spokesman.“This latest incident is out of the bounds of acceptable behaviour.”He added: “Guardia Civil actions such as these are invasions of our territorial sea which must be repelled by the Royal Navy.”

The Royal Navy must helpFrom Page 1

A BRITISH couple have won a six-year legal battle to force a property develop-er to give them a home they won in a raffle.A Malaga court ruled that Arenal 2000 must give Su-zan and Malcolm Windle, 68, a free home.The case dates back to 2006 when the couple were ‘over the moon’ to be told they had won a ‘buy-one-get-one-free’ competition for a new apartment worth €250,000 in Benalmadena.The couple from York-shire entered the competi-tion with agent Andalucia Dream Homes when they bought their current home in Isla Redonda, near Se-villa.But the dream soon turned into a nightmare.“It is like being told you have won the lottery and then you haven’t,” explained Su-zan, 54, whose picture was even used by the company for marketing their win on billboards along the N340.“We were over the moon when we won; and planned to rent it and use it as a holi-

Can’t swindle the Windles!

Courts order developer to give British couple home won in raffle

day home,” she told the Ol-ive Press.“But it has dragged on for six years and we never got a house.”During this time the two companies involved, Anda-lucia Dream Homes, which is now in liquidation, and Arenal 2000, owned by disgraced businessman Ra-fael Gomez Sandokan, both blamed each other.“It has been six years of hell

and stress as we have been passed from pillar to post,” added Suzan, who praised the work of her lawyer Ro-berto Leiro from Lawbird.“It is finally excellent news. As Arenal no longer owns the apartment we are either going to get another apart-ment or financial compen-sation.“We are just keeping our fingers crossed it is coming to an end.”

A TARIFA tourism group has used 150 surfboards to promote an event in the town on July 20. The event, Noche en Blanco celebrated the town’s architecture with projection artists, bands and DJ’s.

Boardsfor Blanco

WINNERS: The Windles (far left and right) finally have something to smile about

5www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012NEWS 5

AN arson attack has wiped out 20 lor-ries at an AVE construction site on the line between Antequera and Granada.The attackers are reported to have cost subcontractors €2m by drilling through the fuel tanks of the vehicles before setting them alight.

An investigation has been launched but so far no arrests have been made in relation to the attack. The vehicles had been working on the new line that will predominantly carry freight on the so-called Mediterranean Corridor.

A CONTROVERSIAL train line that threatens to carve up Ronda’s main tourist valley has been included in the new town plan shining a light on the mayor’s empty promises.The new PGOU plan, which is open to the public, shows the line running west of Ar-riate through Llano de la Cruz to a new station at La Indiana.Despite protestations of hundreds of locals and busi-nesses, the line will come within yards of Hotel La Fuente de la Higuera, voted by Trip Advisor among the Top 10 in Andalucia.This comes despite the cur-rent PP mayor Maripaz Fer-nandez promising residents

Driving a train through the truth

Ronda town hall does U-turn on freight line through tourist valley

By Wendy Williams

at various meetings in De-cember that the train would stay on the existing line through Ronda town centre.She insisted central gov-ernment had agreed with this plan, although she was unable to explain how they would get the freight trains up the famously windy, nar-row stretch of line going past Arriate.“That is up to the techni-cians to work out,” she said, adding: “We want it to cause minimal environmen-tal damage and it is vital to protect the valley.”Now, it seems the town hall has done a complete U-turn putting one of Spain’s top

hotels – and dozens of other tourist businesses – under threat.But not everyone is sur-prised by this seeming change of heart.“An initial draft of the PGOU was created two years ago which though never published always in-cluded the line through Lla-no de la Cruz,” said a town hall source.

Conniving“The smartest people, or those with inside knowl-edge, have already sold,” he added. “This is a clever, conniving con trick and has caught many people out.”Meanwhile the mayor in-sists her position has not changed.“We received different infor-mation verbally but, as yet, this has not been included in the official reports.“In the town plan there is an AVE station in Indiana, but the information we have been given is that it will stay in Ronda.”The public now has three months to contest the plan.

Arson attack on new fast track freight line

HUNTERS are being asked to help out after a plague of rabbits went on the rampage, ravaging farmers crops around the region.The furry creatures have been devastating sun-flower and cereal crops as well as attacking young olive trees.It has led the Junta to loosen laws on hunting for Malaga province and promise to give out more licences.“We hope this action is taken fast as if not the rabbits are going to destroy everything,” ex-plained a farmer in Antequera.

Rabbits on the rampage

BLAZING: Firefighters struggle to put out the flames

6 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 COMMENT

The original and only English-languageinvestigative newspaper in Andalucía

OPINION OPINION

Telephone: 951 166 060 or 691 831 399A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in southern Spain - 186,000 copies distributed monthly (120,000 digitally) with an estimated readership, including the website, of more than 500,000 people a month.Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: B91664029Urb Cayetano Arroyo, Buzon 13, Arriate 29350 MalagaPrinted by Corporación de Medios de Andalucía S.A.Editor: Jon [email protected] Editor: Wendy Williams 689646049 [email protected]: James Bryce [email protected] Eloise Horsfield [email protected]: 951 166 060

Design and page layout: Jackie [email protected]

Admin/advertising sales:Pauline Olivera [email protected]

SALES TEAM:West Costa del Sol Jane Jewson 673958858AxarquiaCharlie Bamber 661452180CadizElizabeth Gould 620 532 672Ronda/San Pedro/MarbellaJon Clarke 691 831 399

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Hard times, desperate measuresDESPERATE times call for desperate measures, or so the saying goes. But what happens when these words are taken literally – when things get so desperate that a mother must sell her kidney to feed her family. Do we just sit idly by and accept this adage as an unfor-tunate reality or do we try to make the desperate times a little less desperate?As more and more people across Spain face eviction, poverty and hunger, there is a desperate need for a communal initiative to assist these struggling families. After all, it seems the situation will only get worse be-fore it gets better. It is in this moment – when times are truly desperate – that we must offer a helping hand and curtail the need for desperate measures.

King Carlos’ Secret TripTHE story story came to light when he was flown home from Africa with a broken hip.A sheepish King Carlos apologised as he left the hospi-tal: “I am very sorry. I made a mistake. It won’t happen again” he claimed.Sorry for spending thousands to hunt while the rest of Spain struggles financially, for killing one the worlds most endangered species, or simply for being caught?A greater question however, should be why people who kill animals for pleasure rather than for food, hold pres-tigious positions within WWF in the first place.Spain is not alone... In the UK, the Duke of Edinburgh has been involved in the WWF for over 40 years, he even served as the groups International president for 16 years, yet he has spent a lifetime killing both British and exotic animals in the name of sport. He should be the next to go.

Green hopeTHE environment has been forced to second place over the last few years as the recession deepened.And more is the tragedy, given our understanding of the seriousness of global warming and carbon emissions.It is clear though that people realise the task facing us and some of the changes we need to make are rela-tively simple.Have a read of our free annual Green Guide out with this issue and hopefully get some inspiration to make a few of those basic changes that will help to make a difference.

TALK of psychopaths usually conjures up images of the Nor-man Bates character

in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 film Psycho.It is less likely to create an image of a smarmy sales-man trying to sell you a timeshare or dodgy invest-ment scheme.But many of these scoun-drels operating in Spain display the character traits associated with psycho-paths. The Financial Services Au-thority (FSA) recently sent an email to 77,000 people, many in Spain, warning them that they appeared on a so-called ‘suckers list’ used by boiler room bosses to target unsuspecting in-vestors. The people who use the list were described by the FSA as ‘ruthless, calculat-ing and will stop at noth-ing to steal your money’. This description bears re-markable similarities to the features of a psycho-path.Here, the Olive Press ex-plores the ways in which the behaviour of unscru-pulous conmen in Spain closely reflects those con-sidered to be psychopaths.

The Boiler Room ScammerIt is an all-too common scene: you’re relaxing in the bath, af-ter a long day and the tele-phone goes. A charming man asks you whether you are interested in investing in shares and the offer may sound enticing – lead-ing to you being offered a dis-counted price or even a free gift. But these cold-calls are part of an elaborate and ruthless scheme to con

people out of millions of eu-ros a year.And the shares they are push-ing are either worthless or non-existent. The boiler room scam costs British investors €220 million a year.

This type of fraud targets wealthy, middle-aged or el-derly Britons from call centres largely based in Spain.Victims of this fraud have in the past lost their life savings and even their homes with the average loss at a colossal

€26,000. That doesn’t stop the crimi-nal masterminds behind the network of deceit squeezing every last drop they can out of prospective customers. They may assure you you’ll have massive gains within

60 days - a promise broken thousands of times over with so many British customers. These fraudsters are not even adverse to kick-ing their victims when they are down with many companies set up to offer boiler room casualties a way to recover their money for a ‘small’ fee of up to €600. The money is pocketed and victims are

The real sharks of the Costa del Sol

After the FSA sent warnings that thousands of expats in Spain are on the so-called ‘suckers list’, Helen Pierpoint investigates what makes a psychopath or conman

How to spot a psychopath: • CHARMING: They tend to come across as highly charming and funny• CANNY: They are extremely manipulative and will attempt to con you whenever

possible• PRIVILEGED: They feel entitled to your money• LIARS: They are compulsive liars and will lie without hesitation to get you to part

with your money.• RUTHLESS: They show no remorse or guilt when they hurt or trick others• CROCODILE TEARS: They understand and are able to mimic human emotions

such as love if it happens to serve their purpose-none of these feelings are genu-ine

• EDGY: They need constant stimulation and are unable to settle down for long• EMPATHY: They have no empathy for their victims • BLAMELESS: They are reluctant to take the blame for their crimes and will try

and avoid punishment whenever possible• CONTEMPT: They feel that human emotions like compassion are signs of weak-

ness

7www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012COMMENT 7

sometimes left penniless.

The timeshare crookMany victims of timeshare fraud will tell you their night-mare began with a call asking whether they would be inter-ested in timeshare.An equal number will have been enticed by the infamous ‘scratch card’ schemes, so popular in the big costa resorts. But one thing in common, the salesmen sound convincing and will name-drop credible and highly official sounding companies, lawyers or estate agents that they are ‘affili-ated’ with. The bottom line is anyone making unsolicited calls, or approaching you in the street, should be treated with ex-treme caution. In the nineties these preda-tors took advantage of the property ‘boom’, conning 600,000 people into signing up to timeshares.Victims only realised they had been scammed when they discovered these properties didn’t even exist or that the annual maintenance fee to-talled sums in the region of a mind-bending €2000.These conmen are highly skilled in the art of persua-sion - they deftly convince their ‘prey’ to part with their money, inventing a number of reasons to hand over your bank details. They will offer legal, secu-rity or financial services and may even assure you they will transfer money into your account when in fact the re-verse is happening. In the past 12 months the Timeshares Owners and Com-mittees Organisation saw a mammoth 180 per cent surge in complaints against these master manipulators. (See news story right)

The equity release fraudsterThousands of Brits have also been defrauded by equity re-lease scams .These predators “are thieves…instead of climbing in through your window they

gain your trust and simply walk through your door,” ex-plains David Klein of the Cos-ta del Sol Action Group, which receives up to ten calls a day from victims of equity release schemes. “They become your best friend.’’ At the turn of the century, approximately 100,000 pen-sioners hoping to live out their lives in warmer climes moved to Spain, attracted by the low cost of living. Yet as the fever of the boom waned and the cost of liv-ing increased, many ex-pats signed equity release schemes allowing them to borrow money at the value of

their homes to get cash.The ‘advisors’ hoodwinked their customers into believing they would get a great return on investments of their loan but when the money ran out they would demand the mon-ey back. “These rapacious financial advisers would use your loan to make high-risk invest-ments…the higher the risk the more money they would receive as commission,’’ adds Klein. The vultures would get a monthly pay-check of up to a whopping €65,000 while their customers were left up to their necks in a debt they could not repay.

• If you’re buying or letting a property, try-ing to clear debt or securing a job, do NOT trust the negotiator’s charming smile and gift of the gab - their charis-ma may simply be a weapon deployed to trick you.

• The ability to speak English does not exempt business people from having a heart of stone - do NOT go for the easy option - criminals use expats’ relief at finding an English-speaker on the Costa to gain their trust.

• NEVER give personal details to compa-nies that cold call you - the best thing you can do is put down the phone be-fore they have a chance to manipulate you.

• Do NOT believe yourself immune from being scammed - master manipulators

are skilled in the art of rhetoric and of-ten use your weakness against you.

• NEVER respond to scam messages - if you do, you make yourself liable to re-ceive a barrage of further messages.

• Make sure you understand ALL the de-tails of any deal you’re negotiating- it may sound great on the surface but will often have traps hidden in the small print.

• If you suspect you are being scammed, use websites such as the Olive Press, the Costa del Sol Action Group, www.actionfraud.police.uk or the FSA, where you can find plenty of helpful informa-tion and advice about these sharks.

• Always seek the advice of an INDEPEN-DENT lawyer or financial adviser before making any decisions you may regret.

What you can do to protect yourself:

HUNDREDS of timeshare salesmen are back on the streets, putting both sellers and buyers at risk.Holidaymakers are being warned to watch out for unscrupulous timeshare touts, both on the phone and in person.In the past 12 months the Timeshare Owners and Committees organisation has seen a 180 per cent surge in com-plaints about law firms and a 67 per cent increase in complaints about re-sale companies. Dubious law firms and resale compa-nies are targeting sellers trying to get rid of thousands of timeshares they can no longer afford.They claim they can recoup the initial

Timeshare trouble aheadWarning as unscrupulous salesmen are on the increase again By James Bryce

investment or sell the property, in ex-change for a large fee.They are also giving the hard-sell to unsuspecting first-time buyers, often trying to offload unwanted timeshares onto them.

BurdenedTimeshare became popular in the Nine-ties when around 600,000 people paid an upfront fee plus annual charges to use a room or apartment for set weeks each year.Many found themselves burdened with contracts they couldn’t get out of and spi-ralling maintenance costs which in some cases were as much as €2,000 a year.


By Wendy Williams

A LION has been found liv-ing on a residential urban-isation in Spain.A Sevilla man allegedly sold the animal to a man who kept the lioness as a pet in a make-shift enclosure in Badajoz.Police found the dangerous animal after receiving a tip-off about the animal’s exis-tence.Action is now being taken against the current owner.Meanwhile the previous owner, 69, who initially purchased the nine-month old cub for €2,500, has now been charged with the traf-

GENEROUS expats are organising a col-lection for anyone wishing to pay tribute to Coin student Sergio Retamar Mar-quez, who was murdered in the UK last week.Shelley Exley, from North Yorkshire, has set up an account with local florist Flores Paola where people can leave their donations towards a wreath.The student, 23, was allegedly decapitat-ed by his flatmate in a horrifying attack in Bournemouth. “The expat community desperately wanted to do something for the family of this boy,” explained Exley, who has lived in the town for 30 years.“The Brits felt very affected that he was murdered in Britain.“It’s all extremely shocking,” added Ex-ley, who knows the boy’s mother.“He was the only son. His mum is just in shock.”Retamar had moved to Britain less than a year ago to learn English and work as a waiter.His 29-year-old flatmate Karl Addo has since been arrested on suspicion of

Donations for SergioExpats set up flower fund for tragic Spanish student murdered in the UK

murder and detained at a secure mental health unit.Anyone wishing to contribute should leave their donations with Sonia at Flores Paola in Coin quoting ‘Sergio Re-tamar. Comunidad Britanica’.

RIP: Sergio Retamar Marquez

ficking of a threatened spe-cies.The lioness has been trans-

ferred to a zoo in Madrid until a decision is reached about her future.

Not the purrfect home

Darragh faces a new kind of criticPETERBOROUGH United Chairman Darragh MacAnthony is facing criticism once again, this time for his literary ef-forts. The disgraced property mogul - who appeared in court in Marbella in April on charges of taking tens of thousands of euros off nearly 50 British and Irish victims - has released an autobiography.From Hobby to Obsession (pictured left) details MacAn-thony’s time as chairman of the Championship club, but has received mixed reviews online. One reviewer, Lee Philpott, wrote on Amazon: “Wow, this book is incredibly badly written. I wonder whether he commissioned a million monkeys with typewriters. “Or else he’s drunkenly mumbled into voice recogni-tion software and accidentally pressed publish.”Another reviewer, Gary Jones, added: “The blurb on the cover pretty much sums this ‘businessman’ up, and I don’t suppose he mentions the ongoing investi-gations into his financial ‘dealings’ either.”

9www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012

10 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 NEWS10

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News IN BRIEF

A BRITISH father and his daughter have died after jumping into the sea to es-cape raging fires in Cata-luna.The 60-year-old man died landing on rocks, while his daughter, 15, drowned.The pair had jumped 165ft from a cliff with three other family members as the blaze spread, near Portbou, on the Costa Brava.A group of about 150 tour-

Fire jump deathsBritish tourists were forced to leap over 165ft cliffs to escape blaze

ists were forced out of their vehicles by flames and down a hillside.

CriticalThe mother of a French family is in a critical condi-tion but the son and other daughter are not thought to have suffered serious injury.The fire, which has now claimed four lives, has burned across 35 square miles.

A BRITISH man has been arrested for starting a fire in Tarragona that destroyed 3,000 hectares of forest.Paul William, 33, who lives in Gandesa, was charged with six counts of burglary that occurred at the same time as the blaze which swept through the Rasquera area in May.Investigations revealed that William, who was spot-ted robbing a house, was also responsible for start-ing the fire.William, however, claimed that he had called the fire brigade after seeing an arsonist start the blaze.He later fled the town and was traced by police to Sa-lou where he was arrested.

British burglar arrested for forest fire

CancelledRYANAIR is set to drop 15 routes from the UK to Madrid and Barcelona this winter in response to a doubling of airport departure taxes from July 1.

Rubbish newsWorkers at a waste company in Cadiz are refusing to collect any more rubbish from the streets until they receive a wage increase of 4.4 per cent.

Baby snatchAn Irish baby boy who was sat in a car when it was stolen from a supermarket in Benalmadena has been reunited with his mother.

Sand winThe International Sand Art Contest, held over seven days in Marbella, has been won by Indian artist Sudarsan Pattnaik for his sculpture of Hindu elephant god Ganesha.

11www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012NEWS

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IT led to the worst scandal the Spanish Royal Fam-ily has ever faced. Now the repercussions of King Juan Carlos’ elephant hunting in Africa have come back to haunt him.After various threats, con-servation group WWF has removed King Juan Car-los as its honorary presi-dent.The Spanish section of the charity voted to oust the king from his position, held since 1968.

KING Juan Carlos and son Prince Felipe will have their annual salaries reduced by

VETS on the Costa del Sol are hopeful that a new vac-cine will protect against a disease that affects around a third of dogs in Spain.Leishmaniasis, also known as black fever, is an infec-tious disease transmitted by sand flies that can cause dogs to suffer hair loss, skin sores

Muzzling leishmaniasis

By Rund Abdelfatah Vets hope to have found a new vaccine for killer dog virus

and even kidney failure.The ailment - which is partic-ularly bad in southern Spain - also affects humans, with an outbreak in Madrid affecting over 200 people in March.Last year British expat Su-san Hughes, 67, died after

she contracted the disease through a sand fly bite, as reported in the Olive Press.The most common method of treatment for canine leishmaniasis is a collar containing an insecticide that has proven to be 86 per cent effective.But now vets believe a new vaccine could pave the way for more effective manage-ment of the disease, though some admit the treatment is still relatively unpredictable.

Optimistic“It is too early to tell how ef-fective the vaccine will be,” veterinary nurse Melinda Dunzel from the Pointer Clinic in Estepona told the Olive Press.“But we are optimistic that it will help with prevention and anything that will help stop Leishmaniasis is wel-comed.” The vaccine, which is ad-ministered in a course of three injections followed by an annual booster shot, costs between €50 and €65 per shot.

Fall from grace

Spain’s royals take a pay cut

SCIENTISTS have discovered a new breed of dinosaur in the north of Spain.The claims emerged after two Spanish pa-leontologists found a new type of dinosaur egg in Lleida.The remarkable egg from the upper Creta-ceous period, around 75 million years ago, is said to suggest the existence of an animal that linked dinosaurs and birds.The eggs have a peculiar asymmetrical shape which look more like chicken eggs than dinosaur eggs.The so called ‘missing-link’ between the two species has been named Sankofa pyre-naica.

New dinosaur might have had wings

HARD UP: The Royals will get seven per cent less

EGGCITING: Dino egg

Egg attack

THE former Valencia leader Francisco Camps (above) has been pelted with eggs by a group of over 30 people.It comes as the region was forced to ask for an official financial bailout from Madrid.

seven per cent as the latest slew of austerity measures hit Spain.The queen consort Sofia and Princess Letizia, Felipe’s wife will also have their ex-penses cut.In total, the royal budget of €8.3 million per year will decrease by €100,000 in 2012.According to sources, the Royal family accepted the cuts voluntarily to show sol-idarity with the public sec-tor whose wages will be re-duced in an attempt to con-trol Spain’s massive deficit.The gesture has had a mixed reception on social media, with some even joking the royal family may struggle to make ends meet.

13www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 201213 NEWS

EGGCITING: Dino egg

14 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 GREEN NEWS14

THE Olive Press is thrilled to bring you the fifth edition of our annual Green Guide.There is no getting away from it – Spain’s economic situation is increasingly worrying.But we MUST NOT al-low our planet to be-come the first casualty.A quick read of the Green Guide 2012 will help you take those steps towards mak-ing those small but essential changes to your life – whether it is avoiding chemicals, recycling or even go-ing the full hog with a completely sustain-able lifestyle.

ONCE on the verge of ex-tinction, now Spain’s beard-ed vulture – or quebranta-huesos – is flying back to good health.The majestic birds of prey once thrived in Andalucia, but by 1986 they had all but disappeared due to shoot-ing, and poison designed to kill vermin.Thanks to a successful breeding programme birds have been released as far away as Sierra de Gredos, in Castilla y Leon, and La Rioja’s Picos de Urbion.Some vultures have been

‘Bone-breakers’ are back

OUR GREEN YEAR

green guide 2012

1

the olive press

green guide2012

Hurrah! UK fruit

costs triple the

price of Spain

Want to carbon

offset? Beware of

the cowboysThe happy, smiling faces

of a low-impact life

Why Arsenal

really are a load

of old rubbish!

COMEBACK: Vulture

Bearded vultures flying again across Spain

found to regularly travel between Jaen and the Pyrenees. Breeding centres helped an impressive 18 chicks to be born in captivity last year.“The aim is to get the vultures to repro-duce naturally, although this will not be possible for four or five years,” said Rafael Arenas, regional coordinator for vulture conservation.Sadly, of the 23 individuals released since 2006, eight have died – mostly because of lead poisoning.

The birds are named ‘bone-breakers’ in Spanish be-cause they crack bones too large to swallow by drop-ping their prey onto rocks from high above – a trick which young birds can take seven years to master.

A NEW project will save precious drink-ing water by using treated sewage water to irrigate golf courses and parks.The €4.3 million scheme, funded by the Environment Ministry, will incorporate five new pipes plus a pumping station and a tank of 3,000 metres cubed.Treated water from the Cerros de Aguila

Water wise on the Costas sewage plant in Mijas will be channelled towards Mijas Los Lagos golf course, with a view to using it to water parks and golf courses.Existing pipes will also be maintained as part of the project.The aim is to reduce the demand for wa-ter from La Concepcion reservoir.

15www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012GREEN NEWS 15

THE illegal Algarrobico ho-tel has come closer to being demolished after the envi-ronment bosses of both the Junta and Madrid signed a statement of intent.The pair – whose depart-ments will share the cost - have commissioned envi-ronment company Tragsa to knock down the 411-room eyesore.The company will also be tasked with clearing up the debris and restoring the area to its original state, a job estimated at €300 mil-lion back in November 2011.The move, which Junta en-vironment boss Luis Planas has called ‘good for the im-age of Andalucia and Spain’, has brought renewed hope to environmentalists who have battled for years to see it knocked down.But, Planas admitted that he could not give a date when the hotel, build just yards from a beach inside Alme-ria’s Cabo de Gata Natural Park, would come down.Some local groups however insist knocking down the hotel will only heighten pov-erty in Almeria.Some 16 town halls have already rallied together to

THE founder of Spain’s green party EQUO has labelled Spain’s brick economy as

‘outrageous’, saying his work has only just begun.“It’s been a very busy year,” said Juantxo Lopez de Ural-de a year after EQUO was founded.The ex-Greenpeace Spain boss added: “We have worked extremely hard to lay the groundwork for a different kind of party, one which is democratic and very different from the con-ventional parties.“We have spread through-out Spain, gaining thou-sands of supporters and over 300,000 votes in Spain’s election.”When asked what were the most important environ-mental issues Spain faces, Uralde said: “The economy of brick is still presented as the only option for eco-nomic growth, which is out-rageous.“And of course, then there is Spain’s energy model.”

Bricking it!Junta and central government finally sign document ordering Algarrobico demolition

support keeping it, insisting it would create 300 jobs.“Destroying it is seen by many of the poor and unem-ployed here as rich foreigners forcing their views and beliefs onto this little community,” said expat Bridget Cosgrove.“There are people still wash-ing their clothes in springs here with home-made soap. Many of the protesters have

no idea of the poverty here.”However the hotel, which never had a licence, was ruled illegal by the Spanish Supreme Court in March.Environmentalists insist that knocking it down will actu-ally create as many jobs. They add that the area does not in fact need any more hotels as the region’s existing ones are rarely over 50 per cent full.

More work aheadEQUO founder looks back over party’s first year

ILLEGAL EYESORE: The Algarrobico

COMEBACK: Vulture

16 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012


NEWS IN BRIEFAXARQUIA/COSTA TROPICAL NEWS

CAPTION:

MEET performance artist Mary Garlic, whose work can be seen at an exhibi-tion kicking off on July 28.

Covering herself in paint the student at

Malaga university is be-ing joined by 12 other

young artists - all in their mid-20s – for

the exhibition in Cutar.

All living in Mal-aga the art-ists’ works tackle ob-servations of everyday life as well as hard-hitting po-litical com-

ment.It takes place at Galeria Cutarte,

in Cutar, ev-ery Saturday

from July 28 un-til August 25 and throughout the

local feria from August 17 to 19.

A TRIO of campsites on the Costa Tropical are helping recession-hit families by accepting old peseta notes. Around a dozen families have al-ready taken up the ingenious offer paying for their camping trips using Spain’s old currency.Even better, the offer doubles the face value of the peseta, making it even better value for holidaymakers.A 5,000 peseta banknote, worth

A THOUSAND kilos of hash have been found stashed in the bottom of a boat being transported in a trailer.The drugs, wrapped up in small packets, were discov-ered after the vehicle was intercepted by the Guar-dia Civil on the E-15 near Rincon de la Victoria.Two Spaniards, aged 20 and 30, have been arrested.

HASH HAULTender offer

Holidaymakers can pay for their camping trip with their old dog-eared peseta notes

By Eloise Horsfield

€30 if exchanged at Spain’s Banco de Espana, is worth €60 when used to pay for campsite accommoda-tion.“In the crisis we needed to find

ways to help people escape from the economic situation for a few days and breathe fresh air,” explained Carmen Lopez from Camping Playa de Poni-ente in Motril.

The idea came about fol-lowing reports that there were €1.7 billion worth of pesetas tucked away in Spaniards’ drawers.“I guess lots of people have old notes tucked away, which they often keep to remember the peseta by,” said Anto-nio Martinez, director at campsite Castillo de Ba-nos, in Polopos.

ExtendMartinez revealed that 15 individuals had already paid in pesetas since the launch of the offer two weeks ago. It runs until the end of August.“It has meant many campers have been able to extend their stays to four or five days when they had originally planned to stay just three,” he said.The peseta was replaced by the euro in January 2002, becoming illegal tender in March of that year. Notes and coins can still be ex-changed at any branch of Banco de Espana.

No ashDISPOSABLE ashtray dispensers have been installed on Nerja’s beaches in an attempt to stop bathers using the sand to stub out their cigarettes.

No payCouncillors in Rincon de la Victoria have agreed to give up their Christmas bonus in order to save the town hall €50,000.

The lady

in red

BOLLYWOOD is com-ing to the Axarquia…again.Tourist councillor Bernardo Pozuelo has confirmed a brand new Indian film will be shot in Nerja’s Balcon de Europa in August.The cast will include 15 dancers as well as the protagonist couple, and filming will also take place in Marbella and Sevilla.

CadillacIt is not the first time the Indian film indus-try has chosen Anda-lucia.In 2011, Bollywood film You Only Live Once – which followed three friends as they toured Spain in a blue Cadillac – took in various sites in Sevilla and Huelva, including the tiny vil-lage of Alajar.

Jolly good Bollywood

HAPPY HOLIDAYS: Families can save a fortune using peseta notes

18 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 GIBRALTAR NEWS

Gib IN BRIEF

18

Flight boostBRITISH Airways is to increase flights between Heathrow and Gibraltar from seven to nine per week as part of their winter 2012/13 schedule.

Art aristocratGibraltarian artist Chris-Anne Alcantara has been commissioned by Chief Minister Fabian Picardo to produce a portrait of the Queen to mark the Diamond Jubilee.

Pompey rockedPortsmouth FC have handed a trial to Gibraltar midfielder Liam Walker after the 24-year-old impressed against them during the Rock’s 4-0 win on Friday.

Young flamesGibraltarian youngsters Amanda Carreras and Nicola Bosio have become Olympic torch bearers in London, just three days before Friday’s opening ceremony.

GIBRALTAR has dis-missed ‘misleading’ claims that it has the highest per capita carbon emissions in the world.

Carbon con Anger after Rock is shown to have highest per capita carbon emissions in the world

By James Bryce

The Rock topped a survey by the US Energy Informa-tion Administration, which

measured petroleum con-sumption by each country relative to its population.But Gibraltar’s health minister Dr John Cortes claimed the figures were ‘a misrepresentation of the reality’.He said the survey failed to consider the Rock’s role as a major bunkering location for fuel used by the ship-ping industry.

Shipping“The majority of (bunker) fuel sales in Gibraltar are not consumed nationally but form part of the inter-national shipping indus-try,” he said.“When this figure is divid-ed by the small population (approximately 28,000), we naturally appear to be the worst in the world.”He added: “The world car-bon emissions league table is misleading, reducing its value as a tool for climate change mitigation.”

PRESIDENTIAL PRESENCEFORMER US Presiden-tial candidate Al Gore (right) is to visit Gibral-tar as part of the Rock’s efforts to become ‘a ma-jor environmental hub’.Gore - who also served as Vice President under Bill Clinton - will deliver a speech on economic strategy at a major envi-ronmental forum to be held on October 21.Joining him will be Juan Verde, the international co-director of Barack Obama’s re-election campaign.Gore’s film An Incon-venient Truth shocked

audiences worldwide into taking the issue of global warming seriously.


20 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 20 GIBRALTAR NEWS

A PILOT who flew the so-called ‘Yogi Bear flights’ between Gibraltar and Morocco in the 1960s has written a book about his exploits.Brian Meadley, 82, worked as a captain for Gib Air having previ-ously flown for East African Airways and the RAF during an illustrious career. Meadley, based in Florida, still spends his summers on the Costa del Sol and will host an event to mark the launch of his book (right) There I Was…Memories of an Old Aviator, at Urb Buenas Noches community centre, in Estepona, on July 29.Meadley told the Olive Press the airline got the name after a joker daubed the letters YO on the front of the Gib Air name.“And from then on they were known as the Yogi Bear flights!”

SIX out of ten Spaniards do not think the dispute over Gibraltar is important enough to be part of the

Over half of Spaniards claim the dispute with Gibraltar is not important

Spain’s phoney war

country’s foreign policy, ac-cording to a survey.The findings come at a time of heightened tension be-

tween the UK and Spain over the issue of the Rock’s sovereignty and ongoing legal wrangling over fishing rights (see front page). Half of right-wing voters rated the dispute with Gi-braltar as ‘quite’ or ‘very’ important in Spain’s foreign policy, although this figure dropped below 30 per cent for voters on the left.

HostilitiesThe poll, by the Real Insti-tuto Elcano, also suggests a split in public opinion over the handling of the fishing dispute, with 44 per cent preferring to see an end to the hostilities. However, 60 per cent of vot-ers on the right want dip-lomatic pressure to be in-creased, while 51 per cent of liberal voters want tensions to be reduced.

My time working for Yogi Bear airlines


Spain’s phoney war

22 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 LETTERS

POTTED POINTERS

ANDALUCIA RESERVOIRLEVELSThis week: 63.34 per cent full - Same week last year:86.15 per cent - Same week in 2002: 56.80 per cent

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Letters should be posted to Urb. Cayetano Arroyo, Buzon 13, Arriate 29350, Malaga or emailed to [email protected] The writer’s name and address should be provided. Published opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor.

PLEASEWRITE

BREAKTHROUGHDear Olive Press

The news the Spanish courts are to investigate fraud charges against Dan-ske bank (issue 139) is in-deed a breakthrough after years of concern for many expats caught up in what is now becoming a national scandal. Euan Armstrong, we are all with you and hope you are successful in your case, which will send out a warn-ing to other banks that sold similar schemes to expats in southern Spain. Let’s hope that the other banks using the Luxem-bourg tax haven and those involved in selling equity release schemes (Nordea, Rothschild and Landsbanki to name a few) see the writ-ing on the wall. Perhaps it is time to come to the table and get this busi-ness out of the courts before more damage is done to their reputations.

Carian, via the Olive Press website

Living like you’re on holidayI read with interest the let-ter about expats living out here, working without pa-pers and not contributing to the Spanish system (issue 138). I too know many people living here and doing the same, driving English cars, sending their children to Spanish schools.

The country is in a bad state and Span-

ish people can not get jobs, while these expats

take the jobs, pay noth-ing, some even claim the

equivalent of job seekers al-lowance, and get free trans-port and school dinners. Most frequent the bars regularly and live as though they are on holiday, sitting by their pools. I also get angry and wonder why no Spanish officials are going around checking on these people. Most do not have residencia

Have you seen Lucky?On June 29, our po-denco Lucky did not come home from his daily morning walk in the campo of Al-caucin. We have done every-thing possible to find him and bring him back without result. Therefore I ask you to publish the photo of our lost hijo Lucky, who is also chipped. Many thanks.

Gabriel Huberty, Alcaucin

and get medical treatment with their E111. In England you can inform on these people, in Spain there does not appear to be the same system.

A concerned expat, Almeria

Thanks from TarifaThank you so much for the beautiful, nicely and warm written article about our town Tarifa (issue 139). There are a lot of things going on, good ones – and some bad ones. But the citizens are starting slowly to realise that tourism is the future of Tarifa. On behalf of all the mem-bers of tarifaturismo.com, thank you very much. Henk, Tarifa

An absolute farceI read the story ‘A fine mess’ (issue 139) with in-terest, as what happened to Richard Oswald also happened to me. Back in 2007 my then partner and I bought a motor home on Spanish plates for which I received the tax bill from the local town hall each year up to 2009.When she left me I took it back to the UK and sold it. I was told that it was re-registered onto English plates. Two months ago I had an embargo put on my Span-ish bank account for an amount of €240 plus an extra €60 for this year, and found out it’s related to the motor home.As far as the Spanish au-thorities are concerned I still own it and it’s in Spain. At present I have regis-tered it as off-road as this is all I can do, and I do not know the new English reg-istration to notify Trafico with. It’s an absolute farce.

Graham Sexty, El Borge

Looky looky outI am writing in response to the story about the ‘looky looky men’ (issue 139). In the real world crime is never ‘stamped out’. People from the UK, which has a much higher incidence of violent crime than Spain (including almost double the homicide rate) despite

a more authoritarian legal system and culture, should realise this. Any attempt to stamp out economically-driven crime, such as selling counterfeit items on the street, will only result in more aggressive and more violent groups taking control of the trade. The illegal drug trade is a perfect example of how at-tempting to stamp out eco-nomically-driven crime only favours the most aggressive groups. Unless you have a solution that provides an alternative to illegal street vending for these individu-als they are going to contin-ue doing what they do. The article pointed out that they make very little now and would jump to have a real job (e.g. taxi driver) if the opportunity were avail-able. If you try to take away what little they have, then only you are to blame when the next wave of African immi-grants don’t sell purses, but wait for night-time to rob and steal.

Reality, via the Olive Press website

Intrusive and annoyingI refer to the article ‘Who you looky looky at?’ (issue 139).I have never read an arti-cle that is so one sided.One would conclude from this article that these street traders were forced into coming to this coun-try and we should feel sor-ry for them.No mention is made of the items they sell.

The watches fall apart within days of purchase, the DVDs were filmed from within a cinema and identical sunglasses and bags can be purchased from local markets at a fraction of the cost.To seriously suggest that these people earn as little as €10 in a day just shows how gullible your corre-spondents are.Do you really think they would admit precisely how much they make in a day?The traders contribute nothing to this country’s economy.They are intrusive and an-noying. We residents are subjected to these people many times each day for 365 days of the year.Your correspondents clear-ly adore them and no doubt

will be happy to open their homes up to them.I was always under the impression that a good journalist gives a well bal-anced, impartial and ob-jective view point.

Jack Taylor, Marbella

ED: Thank you for your comments.The report was as ob-jective as possible and as editor, while they also annoy me at times, they are gener-ally acceptable and in a tough world have a right to exist.We do express the ille-gality of some of their wares and I have dis-covered the poor quali-ty too. My advice to you, don’t buy from them!

Near Cadiz there’s a place called ChiclanaThat’s a sort of republic (banana!),It’s in such a mess no-one wants to invest,Unless they are ‘greasing la palma’!

Now how could the council not see?15K plus new homes in their city,Unless blinded by ‘favours’, should’ve gone to SpecsaversOr to Boots to buy one, get one free!

These invisible homes were then boughtBy people who genuinely thoughtThey’d been told only truth, ‘you will get la luz’But – too late – realised they’d been caught!

Some buyers were wise, without doubt,They knew what Chiclana’s about,Dig a hole here or there and – hey presto – they shareThe electric supply and pay nowt!

And as for Sevillana Endesa,Seems this company couldn’t care lessaAbout those who don’t pay at the end of the dayAdd the cost on the bills of the resta!

The IBI seems open to offers,It’s a tax that’s ridiculed by scoffers,A few offer to pay, but most shy awaySo there’s no dosh in the official coffers!

And then there’s the fool such as I,Who’d been warned ‘check it out ‘fore you buy’,Since then, naturally, every bill’s paid by me,Whilst my neighbours pay nothing! But WHY?

Now the Junta has issued decreesTo regularise houses like these,But the council stays deaf, and blind to the theft,And continues to turn from the pleas.

Are the reasons they give somewhat fake?Were some people in power on the make?Not tarring all with one brush, does the council not rushBecause some, their friends/family, like to take?

There are many who live in el centroWho, for weekends, have homes in the campo,I’m sure all agree, let’s have everything free,But the time has now come to say NO, NO!

Wat the Dickens, Chiclana

A tale of one ‘very corrupt’ city from the bard of Chiclana


OPThe Olive Press’ monthly youth and education sectionXtreme

23

Spain hires Germany as ‘Sherpa’

Pay back time

Belarus children have healthy holiday

Lloyd’s on a rollUNIVERSITY stu-dents who receive a scholarship in Spain will be required to pay their grant back in full if they fail more than half of their subjects, ac-cording to a new royal decree.The rules will come into force for the academic year 2013-2014, with students having to pass a third of their sub-jects under the cur-rent guidelines.The new legislation will also include changes to the aca-demic and income requirements of those applying for scholarships.

WATCHING too much TV might not make your eyes go square.But every extra hour of television children watch a week could be increasing the size of their waistline and hampering their ath-letic ability.A new study has shown 10-year-olds who watched 18 hours a week at the age of four had waistlines 7.6mm bigger than those of children who watched an average of just 14.8 hours.

ObesityMoreover the distance children could jump was reduced by a third of a centimetre for each extra hour they had watched per week at the age of two.“The bottom line is that watching too much televi-sion is not good,” said Re-searcher Dr Linda Pagani, who hopes the study will encourage authorities to target the factors behind

Watching their waistlines

SPAIN’S ‘lost generation’ of unemployed youth are set to get a helping hand from Germany.The European neighbour has agreed to help Spain launch German-style ap-prenticeships for its jobless youth to give more Span-iards on-the-job training with German firms.Education Minister Jose Ignacio Wert has signed an agreement with his Ger-man counterpart Annette Schavan and insists Spain

Spaniards to receive German-style on-the-job training to help them land well-paid positions must learn from Germany. “We want Germany to be our Sherpa on this job train-ing adventure,” he said.“We have 1.5 million uni-versity students and only 270,000 trade school stu-dents.”He added that students were getting far more the-

UNIVERSITY rectors in Andalucia are warning that the ‘piggy banks are ringing empty’ and the system is on the brink of collapse. According to Jose Manuel Roldan, President of the Association of the Rectors, while larger universities are still drawing on savings, smaller in-stitutions are suffering more.“For the last two years we have been

HUNDREDS of children from Belarus have been hosted by Andalucian fami-lies this summer.In July 350 children vis-ited the area, as part of a programme that started 12 years ago in reaction to the long term suffering faced by children after the Chernobyl accident in 1986. The nuclear accident re-leased a radioactive wave that travelled north to Be-larus causing increased in-cidences of thyroid cancer and leukaemia.

BRITISH teenager Lloyd Thornton has claimed first prize at a regional kid’s bike-riding contest.The 14-year-old cycling enthusiast from Las Vinas high school beat six other competitors smashing his way into first place by an impressive 10 seconds. He’ll be going for gold again at his next race in the Sierra Nevada.

Andalucian universities on point of collapse

ory than practical experi-ence, and that many lacked foreign language skills.In contrast Germany’s ‘dual’ education system, combining practical ap-prenticeships with class-room studies, is widely ad-mired in Europe.Now Schavan has said Germany will expand edu-cational exchanges with Spain - where youth unem-ployment is at 52 per cent - and help Madrid develop its own dual system.

ApprenticeshipGerman firms doing busi-ness in Spain will be en-couraged to hire and train more young Spaniards.“There are great jobs and apprenticeships here,” said Schaven.“But there must also be another approach: in Spain and in countries where so far there is no vocational training, it must be introduced and companies must be con-vinced to introduce it,” she added.

speaking clearly but faithfully to the Ministry of Economics about the se-rious cash flow problems we face,” said Roldan.Part of the problem is they have still not received funds promised up to six months ago. But the Junta has insisted it hopes to have a plan in place by the end of the month to resolve the problems.

COUCH POTATO: Inactive youthchildhood obesity.“These findings support clinical suspicions that more screen time contrib-utes to the rise in excess weight thus providing es-sential clues for effective approaches to its eradica-tion.”

LEARNED SCHOLARS: Youngsters graduated from reception class at British School of Marbella with flying colours (see p33)


OPXtreme24

OPXtreme24

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Summer job for mums and dadsSUMMER breaks are

traditionally long in Spain because chil-dren in agricultural

areas were needed during the harvesting of crops.Although much has changed since then, current school calendars are still based on those developed in the turn of the last century prior to air conditioning and at a time when 85 per cent of the population’s livelihoods were tied to the land.Today both parents and child psychologists worry that such long breaks may be detrimen-tal to learning. The argument goes: children learn best when instruction is continuous. Summer vacations break the rhythm of class-es, lessons are forgotten, and a great deal of time is wasted in the autumn reviewing last year’s work. Special needs kids are said to suffer the worst. And for those of you speaking only English at home, there is a worry that children will suffer when they return to a Spanish speaking classroom after 10 weeks without practising. Of course general intelligence levels are not going to alter, but children may suffer from what experts call ‘learning loss’. This affects boys and girls equally, but notably, children from poor families tend to suf-fer more than their wealthier peers. According to research carried out in the US (where children have similar holiday lengths to Spain) children lost the equivalent of one month’s learning after the summer. But in maths, there was no difference in the loss from rich/poor families. It seems mums and dads might be reading to their children, but are not working on maths problems while at the beach.Reports on how to address the problem all fo-

As young minds fail during the long summer, parents must take on the role of teacher if little brains are to be kept active. Here OPX editor Wendy Andersen offers some crafty tips on ‘stealth teaching’…

cus on adjusting the school calendar – slight-ly beyond the powers here at OPX. So we’ll stick to the obvious – parents have to take on that much beloved role of the ‘home teacher’. Why, every time I suggest to my kids ‘how about we do a bit of maths today?’, it’s just like Christmas morning with squeals of de-light. Okay, maybe not. Parents have to perfect the art of what I call ‘stealth-teaching’. It happens a lot when we’re in the car. I find teaching works best with a trapped audience. My top game for primary school kids is to hand over the Sat-Nav and have them navi-

gate. It requires a bunch of skills, from entering the address, to distinguishing left and right, as-sessing distances and so on. My son has to note the speed limit and tell me how much over the limit I’m going. I mean un-der the limit of course. Taking it up a level, my older daughter has to work out the percentage over the limit and so on. Summer time means quite of-

ten I have to drag the kids around the super-market – a virtual maths laboratory. Challenges can be calculating best prices when different weights are involved – two-for-one deals are great adding another level. Set up a reward scheme – each time you put something in the trolley, if they can find a cheaper option that money is theirs to put towards an item of their choice (ice creams, biscuits, etc that you were going to have to buy anyway). Hand the cash over to the kids to work out the bills and coins, and count the change for you.On a final note, long lazy summers are an important part of a child’s development, in terms of imagination, relaxing and forming happy life-long memories. But they are also important for the teachers who spend every day with these shouting, snotty, self-centred, squabbling little angels we love so much. Teachers not only deserve it, they need it! And a month as a stealth-teacher will prove it. As one school director says about long sum-mer breaks: “It’s crucial for teachers to do other things as well as teach; whether it’s painting, trekking or, as in my case, writing books – it adds such a lot to what teachers have to give .... We all know that some of the most valuable learning experiences take place away from the classroom.”

In summer my local supermarket becomes a virtual maths laboratory

for my kids


ll about ummer activitiesS AJuly 26, 2012 A 12-page Olive Press special supplement

25

A sobering ride So much to do right on your doorstep

AS I trot along an unused rail-way track deep in the Axarquia countryside, I wonder whether there is anything in the world I

would rather be doing.And as our gorse-lined route leads us through the Guaro Valley – providing a fantastic opportunity for vulture and eagle spotting – I realise I have not seen a single vehicle since setting off from Periana hours before. It is pretty incredible for the Axarquia, where sadly an estimated 22,000 il-legal homes have been built since the 1990s – of which up to 8,000 are on protected land according to green group Ecologistas en Accion.“This is probably the only road in the Axarquia with no illegal property on

Eloise Horsfield is advised to go easy on the hip flask as she rides a trusty mare through the wilds of the Axarquia

it at all,” jokes one of my hosts, Alain Grootaers, of Finca Don Carmelo, as we mosey along in the warm, afternoon sun.Our route will cover around 15 to 18km throughout the day and take us from 350m to 950km – although thankfully the horses will do most of the work.Alain, 48, from Belgium, and his Dutch wife Jakobien Huisman, 42, left behind city jobs in Antwerp three years ago to discover the idyll of rural Spain, and the horse lovers now offer an attractive range of equine treks. Shortly after arriving I am introduced to my mare, Deliciosa – or Dee for short, who like most of Finca Don Carmelo’s

Turn to Page 26

THE summer is a great time to relax and unwind on the beach but for those who have had their fill of sandcastles and are looking for something a bit different, Andalucia has plenty to offer. From hiking to biking, horse riding to wakeboarding, diving to roller coasters, the region really does have it all. Choose from the unspoilt windswept coastline of the Costa de la Luz, the mountains above the Costa del Sol or the iconic Rock of Gibraltar to discover what wonders lie in store. Whether you are after a relaxing break, a thrilling adventure, something to do with the kids or just an escape from the masses, you are sure to find something to fit the bill. And to point you in the right direction, the Olive Press has put together a guide of what’s on offer around the region this summer.

WILD RIDE: Trek high above Vinuela reservoir


Summer activities26

Horsing aroundhorses is mixed breed English/Arab.“We find pure Spanish-blooded horses a bit unpredictable, which is the last thing we want for taking out punters,” explains Jakobien, who began riding at the age of eight.I am pleased to find Dee poised and steady, and as Jakobien informs me, can even be relied on for her steady appetite.“She’ll stop to eat whenever she gets a chance,” she laughs.And sure enough, just as we’re sad-dled up and about to set off, Dee saunters over to the nearest pile of hay and starts tucking in.As well as Dee, the couple’s 14-strong herd also includes foals Alfarnate, Baila and Colorado, plus Jakobien’s 30-year-old mare which she brought from Belgium.“It’s really old for a horse and it cost a fortune, but I just couldn’t bear to part with her,” she says.Soon we are off, heading around the pretty village of Periana and through a shady olive grove.Meanwhile I learn more about this energetic couple, who didn’t think twice about taking daughter Ju-lia, then 11, off for a year-long trip around Asia before settling in Peri-ana.“People said, ‘Why are you bury-ing yourselves in a small Andaluz village?’” says Jakobien, originally

from Holland. “But we didn’t see it like that. It was simply time to do something else.”Jakobien is a travel journalist con-

From Page 25

tributing regularly to Belgium’s big-gest newspaper, daily Het Laatste Nieuws, and Alain is also a prolific writer whose achievements include setting up Belgian men’s mag P-Magazine back in 1998.As if running horse treks wasn’t enough, the pair also produce or-ganic olive oil which is shipped back to upmarket restaurants in Belgium.

The steeds take turns to enjoy a

slurp - apart from Dee who goes for

some wild mint

“I made a lot of contacts when I presented a cookery programme for a while,” explains Alain, originally from Belgium.Soon we turn onto the stunning country road, which in the early 1900s housed a railway line ferry-ing industrial materials to and from the coast.Today it’s an incredibly picturesque

track boasting views over Lake Vinuela.“You’d almost expect to see some Indians appear from

over that ridge, wouldn’t you?” jokes Alain.Once we are used to the rhythm of our carriers, Alain suggests we try a trot – and the next thing we know the horses have upped their pace, taking his animal as their lead.Although a little unsettling at first for someone who – despite my sur-name – has never spent much time on a horse, I soon feel comfortable with the quicker rhythm.Back down at walking pace, Alain and Jakobien lead us to a trough where the steeds take turns to en-joy a well-earned slurp – apart from Dee who goes straight for some wild mint.After a downhill section, where all our stomach muscles are given a mini work-out, we grind to a halt at the village of El Canuelo for lunch.El Canuelo is a tourism complex owned by former London art dealer

Edward Crawshaw, where we are spoilt with a leisurely three-course meal as we absorb breath-taking views over the lake.“It’s wonderful that Jackie and Alain are offering these horse treks be-cause no-one else seems to be do-ing it,” says Crawshaw.And despite a jovial ambiance, we are instructed to go easy on the booze in view of the ‘drive’ back.“We don’t want to be over the limit – the same laws apply to driving a vehicle as they do for horses, sadly!” says Alain.

Finca Don Carmelo offers a range of treks from half-day to eight-day. Prices start at €60 per person. Over 12s only. See www.fincadoncarme-lo.com

STUNNING: The terrain is truly breathtaking and (below right) Jakobien and Alain

Be bowled over!FOR those looking to get away from the high-adrenaline sports of the coast, why not try bowling.La Posada Bowls Club may really bowl you over.The Antequera club is looking to pass on the skill of the bowls – a sport requiring precision and concentration but which allows you to socialise and relax - to new or occasional members.It is open seven days a week and offers bowl and shoe hire.For more information call 680 482 424 or email [email protected].

27www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012Summer activities27

FOR lovers of water sports, Andalucia rep-resents something of a mecca for both profes-

sionals and beginners alike.The fantastic weather and excellent purpose-built facili-ties make for an ideal envi-ronment in which to learn the ropes, or perfect your skills.Arguably the jewel in the crown for fans of waterski-ing and wake-boarding is Xtreme Gene, an unassum-ing facility tucked away at the end of a dirt track, 15 minutes away from Cordoba. Perched on the edge of Em-balse de la Brena reservoir, near Almodovar del Rio, the majority of instructors at Xtreme Gene are current champions for their respec-tive countries and the little-known spot is one of Eu-rope’s top destinations for watersports teams.But although it is ideal for the pros, it is also a fantastic place to bring the kids, who can learn how to ski, as well as canoe, fish and swim.Set up in 2002 by owners Debbie and Matt Southom

A champion day outJames Bryce takes a ride around the region’s best wakeboarding and waterskiing centres

and former Spanish cham-pion Andreas Alijo, it offers a relaxed, inclusive environ-ment for water sports enthu-siasts of all abilities.Professional waterskier Matt has represented England, while Debbie spent years working in marketing for Min-istry of Sound nightclub in

London.Several of the i n s t r u c t o r s divide their time between teaching and c o m p e t i n g at the key in-t e r n a t i o n a l c h a m p i o n -ships.“We often get total begin-ners, as well

as stag weekends, so they have to be patient,” says Matt, who was once ranked fourth in the world.The high-calibre of instructors means that those trying the sport for the first time are in the unusual, but hugely bene-ficial, position of being taught by the best in the business.But Xtreme Gene is by no means the only option for those looking to try their hand at waterskiing and wake-boarding.Cableski Marbella, based in San Pedro de Alcantara, of-

fers the whole family a great day out in the heart of the Costa del Sol.The sport differs from the traditional method of using a boat to pull skiers around the lake, instead using an inge-nious cable system similar to the button lifts used by snow skiers.The facility is proving popular with tourists and expats alike, with tuition available for chil-dren on kneeboards, water-skis and wakeboards. It is regularly used by five time Spanish champion and for-mer world number 10, Jamie Oliver (not that one!), with the 27-year-old lending a hand with the tuition. All equipment is available for hire next door from the Sur-fin’ shop, while there is also a restaurant and pool available for those looking to pass the time in a more relaxed man-ner. “We have people of all ages and abilities coming down here to use the facility, from 10-year-old kids trying it for the first time, right through to professionals who have been doing it for 20 years,” says Gaston Marinoni, at Surfin’.“Cable ski is growing as a sport, especially in the last five years because it is cheap-er than using a boat. “We will be introducing ramps onto the lake in a couple of weeks to attract more pros and we’re looking to start put-ting on BBQs and parties in the evenings to create more of a social environment,” adds the 39-year-old Argen-tinean, who also runs the fa-mous same name snowboard

shop in the Sierra Nevada.Al l - in-al l , there really is no ex-cuse not to get wet in Andalucia. Visit www.sur f in.es and www.x t r e m e -gene.com.

Those trying the sport for the first time are taught

by the best in the business

SMOOTH RIDE: Brother and sister go cableskiing

WATER WORKERS: A wakeboarder in action and (right) Melanie and Gaston at Surfin’


Summer activities special28

A region full of excitement

A PAIR of unblinking eyes stare at me down a long snout that looks like it is permanently puckering

up for a kiss. While elsewhere, a snail-like creature no bigger than my thumb displays fearsome-looking horns and a striking co-lour scheme, giving it the appear-ance of a drag queen. But despite their unusual ap-pearance, pipe fish and nudi-branchs are just two examples of the bizarre residents inhabiting the underwater world surround-ing Gibraltar. Octopuses, sea-horses and moray eels are regularly spotted, along with huge shoals of fish including mack-erel, bream and mullet. Much rarer visitors to these shores include eagle rays and turtles. But the marine life is far from the only attrac-tion.The waters around the Rock are littered with ship wrecks of all shapes and sizes, offering a fascinating insight into the area’s sea-faring history. Among those accessible to divers are Batty’s Barge and the 482, an ex-admiralty ca-ble-laying barge that was deliberately sunk in 1990 as part of a conservation project to help attract sea life to the area. Sarah Hunt from Dive Charters Gibraltar is ex-plaining the wreck’s history to me in between helping me get into my gear and providing safe-ty briefings. The amicable 31-year-old - who is

James Bryce (left) comes face-to-face with Gibraltar’s sea-faring past - and some cross-dressing snails - while diving in the waters around the Rock

a PADI-qualified Divemaster - has an infectious enthusiasm for scuba diving and quickly eases my anxiety over the fact that I haven’t dived for three years. “It is really rewarding when people who are nervous have a good time,” she says. “A divemaster’s job is to make it enjoyable and easy and there are lots of sites here which are suitable for beginners. “In fact, one of the dives we often take novices on is one of the best places for spotting sea-horses,” adds the trained lawyer, originally from York, who has lived in Gibraltar for two years. “I have been a scuba diving junkie ever since I saw a hammerhead shark in the Galapagos Islands eight years ago. “I have dived all over the world but I love what Gibraltar has to offer, it is really varied and ev-ery wreck has its different challenges.”

Based in Marina Bay, Dive Charters Gibral-tar offers around 30 different dives including wrecks, reefs and drift dives. It caters for all abilities from complete novices keen to experience a ‘try dive’, right up to 40 metre deep tech-nical dives for professional scuba divers looking for a new chal-lenge.As we wade into Camp Bay from the beach, we soon find our-selves hovering over the ghostly outline of Batty’s Barge. But it is the impressive bulk of the 30-me-tre long 482 that really catches the eye, lying in 15 metres of wa-ter and still in relatively good condition. The wreck is alive with marine life and every

ANDALUCIA is a treasure trove for family fun. With no short-age of things to do, make the most of this summer season by taking the kids out to some of the area’s top attractions, with fun guaranteed for all ages. Here we’ll get you started

with a list of some of Andalucia’s most thrilling parks:

1. Tivoli World in Malaga, the Costa del Sol’s largest amusement park, which has been established for 40 years, offers over two dozen exciting

rides along with a ‘tiny tots’ section for younger children. Enjoy the thrill of the many rides, using the park’s own currency ‘tivolino’ or take advantage of the ‘su-pertivolino’ which gives you unlimited use of 37 rides.

2. If you are looking for a park with a more rustic vibe, check out Isla Magica in Sevilla. Designed in a 16th century Spanish colonial style, its top at-

tractions include the Anaconda and El Jaguar rollercoasters, the latter reaching high speeds on 360 degree turns, a raft ride set in an Amazon jungle waterfall, and a cinema with tilting seats and a massive screen that takes you on a virtual tour of an explorer’s adventures.

3. For those with small children, take a trip to Parkilandia near Algeciras, a funfair designed with kids in mind. From trampolines and a mini race

track, to an electric train and a bouncy castle, there is no shortage of things to do.

4. On a hot sweltering summer’s day you might prefer a more water-filled outing and the Mijas Water Park should fit the bill. It features a wide

range of activities, from a wave pool and kamikaze slide, to water chutes, wind-ing raft slides and a mini water park for smaller kids.

5. For a different type of aquatic entertainment, visit the Selwo Marina Dol-phinarium in Benalmadena. A highly interactive experience, explained in

both English and Spanish, the whole family will enjoy the dolphin and sea lion shows, the penguin feeding session, and the animal exhibits containing seals, sea lions and exotic birds.

6. You can also have fun with animals at the award-winning Bioparc Fuen-girola, a zoo that introduces you to creatures from around the world. All

the animals are kept in either open-air or glass-walled enclosures, so you will feel like you have been transported into the tropical forests of South America. It also features a play area for children and two restaurants with African dance perfor-mances every evening during July and August. Plus, you can easily walk through the entire zoo in under three hours, so it will not tire the kids out.

7. Another fun wildlife attraction is the Crocodile Park in Torremolinos, where you can view over 200 crocodiles of all shapes and sizes and even get to

hold a baby croc.

8. At the Butterfly Park in Benalmadena, you will have a feast for the eyes with more than 1,500 butterflies flying around its stunning conservatory,

built in the style of a traditional Thailand temple.

9. For a more out of the ordinary trip, visit the Science Park in Granada where education meets enjoyment. It features countless hands-on ex-

hibits and a children’s room where they can explore basic scientific principles.

10. Alternatively, travel to Mini Hollywood or Fort Bravo in the Tabernas desert near Almeria for an exciting day of mock bar fights, gun sling-

ing contests, a faux bank hold-up and a full on shoot-out. In its prime, over 100 Westerns were shot here including classics like A Fistful of Dollars.

Rund Abdelfatah offers 10 suggestions of what to do with the kids this summer…

Diving into the past

Tarifa is a fantastic

challenge for experienced scuba divers



Up, up and

away

A region full of excitement

James Bryce (left) comes face-to-face with Gibraltar’s sea-faring past - and some cross-dressing snails - while diving in the waters around the Rock

Based in Marina Bay, Dive Charters Gibral-tar offers around 30 different dives including wrecks, reefs and drift dives. It caters for all abilities from complete novices keen to experience a ‘try dive’, right up to 40 metre deep tech-nical dives for professional scuba divers looking for a new chal-lenge.As we wade into Camp Bay from the beach, we soon find our-selves hovering over the ghostly outline of Batty’s Barge. But it is the impressive bulk of the 30-me-tre long 482 that really catches the eye, lying in 15 metres of wa-ter and still in relatively good condition. The wreck is alive with marine life and every IF you are looking for an activity that will blow you

away why not try windsurfing or kite surfing.Tarifa is without doubt Europe’s wind capital, and the town, situated on the southernmost tip of Europe, is famous for the sports.Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, Tarifa is the place to be and there are numerous companies, including Hot Stick, to show you the ropes.

5. For a different type of aquatic entertainment, visit the Selwo Marina Dol-phinarium in Benalmadena. A highly interactive experience, explained in

both English and Spanish, the whole family will enjoy the dolphin and sea lion shows, the penguin feeding session, and the animal exhibits containing seals, sea lions and exotic birds.

6. You can also have fun with animals at the award-winning Bioparc Fuen-girola, a zoo that introduces you to creatures from around the world. All

the animals are kept in either open-air or glass-walled enclosures, so you will feel like you have been transported into the tropical forests of South America. It also features a play area for children and two restaurants with African dance perfor-mances every evening during July and August. Plus, you can easily walk through the entire zoo in under three hours, so it will not tire the kids out.

7. Another fun wildlife attraction is the Crocodile Park in Torremolinos, where you can view over 200 crocodiles of all shapes and sizes and even get to

hold a baby croc.

8. At the Butterfly Park in Benalmadena, you will have a feast for the eyes with more than 1,500 butterflies flying around its stunning conservatory,

built in the style of a traditional Thailand temple.

9. For a more out of the ordinary trip, visit the Science Park in Granada where education meets enjoyment. It features countless hands-on ex-

hibits and a children’s room where they can explore basic scientific principles.

10. Alternatively, travel to Mini Hollywood or Fort Bravo in the Tabernas desert near Almeria for an exciting day of mock bar fights, gun sling-

ing contests, a faux bank hold-up and a full on shoot-out. In its prime, over 100 Westerns were shot here including classics like A Fistful of Dollars.

Rund Abdelfatah offers 10 suggestions of what to do with the kids this summer…

nook and cranny we peer into seems to be occupied by one fish or another seeking refuge from predators. The ship’s hold is still in one piece and descending into it offers a surreal and slightly eerie sensation. The peaceful, rhythmic breathing makes it difficult to imagine the hustle and bustle created by deck hands going about their business in the same part of the boat so many years ago. Back on dry land after the half-hour dive, everybody is keen to share their experiences of what they had seen.

One of the divers in our group even produces a gin bottle thought to be around 100 years old, an apparently common find on Gibraltar’s wrecks. Away from the Rock, one of the most highly-rated dive sites in Andalucia is Tarifa, a half-hour drive from Gibraltar. Here you can join experienced instruc-tors from the Yellow Sub Tarifa dive company on more than 10 dive sites, which offer a fantastic challenge for experienced divers. Scuba divers must be qualified to PADI

Open Water Diver standard before doing the dives, although ‘try dives’ are available for novices. Among the dives on offer are the Pecio del San Andres, a paddle steamship made of steel, which sank during a storm in 1856. Wildlife including oc-topus, moray eels, conger eels and scorpion fish are among the residents in the natural park of the Isla de las Palomas, where most of the dives take place.

Visit www.divegib.gi and www.divingtarifa.com.

Diving into the past

Tarifa is a fantastic

challenge for experienced scuba divers

NOW AND THEN: Divers explore the wreck of the 482, while (inset below) the boat in its heyday



THE Via Verde de la Si-erra is one of 20 so-called ‘green routes’ which chart a trail of

disused railway lines across Andalucia. Forming part of a proposed rail route across the Cadiz Sierra between Almargen and Jerez de la Frontera, it would have connected the cities of Malaga and Granada. Although much of the ground-work, including tunnels, via-ducts and railway stations were completed in the early 1930s, the project was never finished and lay in neglect until 1993 when the line was renovated for use as a walk-ing and cycling route. We started our day in the town of Olvera where we were staying in the charming Casa Andalus. Like many of the other white towns in the vicinity, Olvera’s roots are Roman and the town went on to flourish dur-ing the Muslim occupation of Spain. It has a Moorish Castle con-structed on a rocky crag high above the town which, like parts of our own Moorish castle, was built during the 13th Century Nasrid Dynasty. Another noteworthy building is the twin-towered neoclassi-cal church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, which was built on the site of a former

Wheely good fun!Tristan Cano has a fun day out on Andalucia’s best known Via Verde cycle and walking route near Olvera

mosque. We followed the steep path from the town centre down to the Antigua Estacion Ferro-carril which marks the start-ing point of the Via Verde. This hotel offers bicycle rent-als and is the last opportunity to pick up refreshments be-fore you reach the Estacion de Zaframagon, 15 km along the route. The reasonably flat terrain makes the route perfect for cyclists and we opted to hire bikes, although plenty also chose to follow the route on foot. We were immediately im-pressed with the scenery, a

distinct patchwork of brown and green fields with end-less olive tree groves looking like blobs of green paint on a watercolour just asking to be painted. The route’s 30 tunnels are a feature of the journey and as we got closer to the Estacion de Zaframagon, the land-scape began to transform from arable land into rolling hills of fir trees. We were soon transported through mountains and river valleys with the help of im-mense viaducts and increas-ingly lengthy tunnels. The viaduct at Zaframagon offered inspiring views of the

Penon de Zaframagon, an im-pressive 584m-high limestone outcrop with sheer cliffs.Overhead 200 breeding pairs of Griffon Vultures live and there is a centre dedicated to them at the nearby sta-tion, which includes a video feed showing live footage of the vultures on the opposing

rock face.Soon we had arrived at Es-tacion de Coripe, which has also been transformed into a hotel and excellent restau-rant, perfect for a lunch stop. There is not much happen-ing in the town itself which is about 2 km from the track however a small diversion

from the Coripe Viaduct takes you to the Chaparro de la Vega. This supposedly 700-year old holm oak of enormous dimen-sions is an Andalucian Na-tional Monument and plays its part in local traditions by providing a meeting point for the villagers of Coripe on their annual pilgrimage during the Fiesta del Virgen de Fatima, their patron saint.

This supposedly 700-year-old holm oak is a National

Monument

Following Estacion de Coripe, the route continues to the fi-nal hotel at the Estacion de Puerto Serrano which adjoins the town of the same name. However having already cy-cled 22 km we were acutely aware of the 200 metre height climb on the return route and set off on the ardu-ous journey back to the start. About two hours later and with tired legs and saddle sore beginning to rear its painful head, we arrived at the hotel at Olvera, dropped off our bikes happy to place our feet firmly back on terra firma. Our walk back to town was slow but pleasant, not only for the sense of achievement for having completed our long cycle, but also the beautiful purple and pink Sierra sun-set that accompanied us. We were aware that our legs would soon be stiffening up, so grabbing a quick shower at Casa Andalus, we headed out for an early dinner at the lively Restaurante Lirios be-fore retiring to what was al-ways going to be an excellent night’s sleep.

Casa Andalus is a self-ca-tering house, visit www.holi-dayhomeolvera.com or call 609 665 342. Bicycles can be rented at the Antigua Es-tación at the start of the Via Verde at approx €15 per day.

THE oldest horse race in Spain is to burst onto the beach of Sanlucar de Barrameda on the Costa de la Luz this sum-mer.The series of races which sees horses thundering along the sand just inches away from the waves of the Med dates back to 1845.The experience comes complete with spectator stands, bookies and paddocks - with the crowd just a hair’s breadth away from the action. This year’s event will take place over two three-day peri-ods, beginning August 12 and August 27.

Southern horsepitality



THE Alpujarras is ideal walking country.High up on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, within easy reach of Granada and the Mediterranean, the landlocked moun-

tainous region offers something for everyone.It is made up of a cluster of pretty white villages surrounded by forest and open moorland, with some of the best walking in Andalucia.So it is little wonder it has become a regular stop-ping off point for tourists and hikers from around the world.Lots of the local shops now have guided walk leaflets available, graded by length of time and difficulty.For those who prefer not to go it alone and to ben-efit from someone with experience and knowledge of the area, there are several companies that offer guided walks and walking holidays.Why not try something with a twist, enjoying a painting or herbal walk.British expat Sue Rodgers, 57, who lives in Lanja-ron, has been running herb walks for three years. And English walking guide Martin Riley, - one of Spain’s only official British guides - lives just around the corner.And with its rich and varied flora – over 2,000 plant species – An-dalucia is the ideal place to enjoy a stroll and take a look at the plant life.The Alpujarras is situated on the GR7, one of the top long distance paths running right across Europe, through Spain and on to Greece.The walk offers an unrivalled landscape of wild flowers, ibex, golden orioles and bee-eaters from a height of between 700 and 1400 metres, while the lesser known GR142 navigates the Alpujarras at a lower level.Meanwhile for the more ambitious among you, the

A walk on the wild side

Wendy Williams spends a few days walking from the fabulous mountain hotel Alcazaba in the heart of the AlpujarrasSierra Nevada also boasts the highest peak of mainland Spain, Mulhacen, which stands at a towering 3,482m. According to legend it is the final resting place of a Muslim king and while it is a steep climb, when

you reach the top the view makes it all worthwhile.It offers a spectacular 360 degree vista taking in half of Andalucia and on a clear day, right across to Morocco.These days, of course, as more and more people flock to find the setting of Driving Over Lemons, the western end of the Alpujarras has become in-creasingly touristy.So for those who really want to

get away from it all it is worth driving further east towards Trevelez where you can enjoy secluded walks over the high sierra to Berchules.A superb base for a walking holiday is the stun-ning Hotel Alcazaba de Buquistar, the only four-star hotel in the region.

It lies four kilometres outside of Trevelez, inci-dentally the highest town in Spain, at a height of 1,700m with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, particular from the vantage point of the summer veranda.It boasts traditional Andalucia decor and a wide range of luxury amenities and facilities including a spa and fitness centre with two swimming pools to unwind after a day’s hiking.Former pilot Tomas Cano, who took over the run-ning of the hotel a year ago, explains: “We get all types of people coming to the hotel, the majority of who have been recommended by word of mouth, but by far the main activity around here is hiking.“There are several different paths to choose from right from the door and whether you go on horse back, on bike or walking it is a lot of fun.“I have fallen in love with the area,” added Cano, who founded Air Europa.“We are right in the mountains; the nearest town is four kilometres away so you are completely alone.“It is an amazing spot, I am really happy here.”

www.hotelalcazaba.com

According to legend, Mulhacen is the final resting place of a Muslim

king



Sweet squeals of delightThere are few things children prefer to chocolate.

Now, they have the perfect place to learn how it is made...and even make their own.Run by chocolatier Eli McCarthy and her IT guru

partner, Jason Godwin, Mayan Monkey Mijas has es-tablished itself as Malaga’s reference point for pre-mium chocolate.A trip to the chocolate-making workshop includes an introduction to the chocolatier craft – which dates back to 1900BC – before you design and make three

of your own bars.And the kids love it. “Our boys loved making choco-late,” explains one father. “Their laughter could be heard on the other side of Mijas.”All chocolate is made fresh on the premises using top-quality, locally sourced ingredients such as Mijas honey. And of course you can buy chocolate too, with ‘Around the Globe in Chocolate’ taking you on a tast-ing voyage to the heart of cacao – with examples from Peru, Cuba, Tanzania and Java. STICKY FUN: Learning to make chocolate bars at the Mayan Monkey Mijas

On the crest ofa wave

WHILE Tarifa is known for its kitesurfing, El Palmar, near Vejer, is known for its surfing.This stunning (as-yet) undeveloped beach is a great place to learn how to surf.One of the best surf breaks in southern Europe, Surf El Palmar offers classes from beginners to ad-vanced.In summer there are up to a dozen surf schools lining the beach, with a handful operating all year around.Lessons start from around €25 per person, although bespoke classes can be had for just over €30. Chil-dren from as young as four can have lessons.Here, seven-year-old Maia, from Ronda, has her first lesson. Standing ovation please!


ON June 6 year 3 at Swans went on their sum-mer trip to Castellar Zoo.What a marvellous experience; it was unlike any zoo any of us had been to before.The animals have been rescued from some ter-rible situations and are now being cared for in this wonderful zoo.Not only did the children get to see the animals but they also got to interact with many of them.They all had the opportunity to stroke a snake, tiger cub and a kinkajou (related to the racoon), as well as hand feed Nandus (a South American ostrich) and lemurs. The children also enjoyed pets corner where they could handle tortoises and rabbits. But more than that, the children learnt the importance of treating wild animals with respect and not as pets.

Animal interaction day

OPXtremeOn the catwalk

STUDENTS at the Marbella Design Academy have been showing off their work on the catwalk to raise money for charity. The Summer 2012 Graduation & Fashion Show Cere-mony, held at Puerto Banus’ H10 Anda-lucia Plaza Hotel, displayed students work and included a Catwalk show ap-propriately featur-ing Miss Malaga (above). All proceeds went to CUDECA.

IT’S fair to say there were not many dry eyes among us soppy teachers during our annual Speech Day. For standing on stage dressed in tradition-al university style mortar boards and navy blue gowns, pupils from Reception Class officially graduated into Year One (see pic on p23). Nicknamed ‘Receptacons’ in homage to the popular 1980s cartoon Transformers, the class of ten girls and three hen-pecked boys received their graduation diplomas

WHAT a busy holi-day for the children at Swans International Summer School at Si-erra Blanca. Every day they have the opportunity to swim in the ozone pool, play lots of different sports, have ICT fun, and take part in a wide range of cre-ative activities includ-ing theatre groups, and art and plasticine mod-elling competitions.The activities have not just taken place in school; the children have enjoyed trips to Bioparc Fuengirola, and the Crocodile Park. Making new friends, learning to communi-cate in different lan-guages and having an amazing time is what Swans Summer School is all about.There are a few places left for August – hurry if you want to join in the fun!

School’s ‘not’ out for summer BSM head Sian Andrews (pictured left)on a tearful graduation ceremony

A whole lot of fun

during the special ceremony.Of course no school graduation is complete without a token bouncy castle and the youngsters quickly disregarded their smart outfits and bundled on to the inflatable castle for some jumping-related shenanigans. But it was a sad day for more than one reason as we also had to say adios to the Reception Class teacher Miss Bruce who is relocating to Venezuela to be closer to her family. The adventurous 30-year-old and her partner are currently making their way across the Bay of Biscay in their trusty (I said trusty not rusty!) boat. Back on terra firma the school corri-dors have been unusually quiet and peaceful during the first week of July. Some staff have been unable to stay away and have been using the first week of their holiday as an opportuni-ty to tidy their classrooms, safe in the knowledge that there were no chil-dren on hand to reverse this process.That peace and quiet was shattered when the school gates promptly re-opened the following week to wel-come dozens of children to our sum-mer school.So for our little angels, to not quite so accurately quote Alice Cooper, school is most definitely not out for the rest of the summer.

33


OPXtreme

Ingredients:225g sugar1 packet gelatine, lime (or lemon)500ml boiling waterIce cubes220ml cold water1 packet gelatine, strawberry3tbs. chocolate chips200g cream cheese230g heavy cream, (to be whipped)

Directions1. Mix 75g of the sugar with the lime gelatine mix. Add 225ml of boiling water. Stir for two minutes, until dissolved. Put five or six ice cubes into 110ml of cold water, stir, and then add to the lime gelatine mix. Stir until the ice is completely melted. Place in the fridge for half an hour.2. Repeat step one, but with the strawberry (or whichever red gelatine mix you can find). But do not put in the fridge. Instead pour the mix into small plastic cups. Freeze for 20 minutes. Stir ½ tsp of chocolate chips into the gelatine in each cup.3. Beat the cream cheese and remaining sugar until light and soft. Stir in the whipped cream. Spread mix over the red gelatine in the cups.4. Pour the lime gelatine over the cream cheese. Insert wooden pop sticks. Place in freezer until firm (about three hours). When you’re ready to eat your popsicles, place them in a bowl of warm water for 15 seconds, then they’ll come out easily. Twisting or pulling the sticks can break them.

Fancy amovie?If you want to head tothe cinema this weekend, butyour Spanish is not up to scratch, check out the VO/VOSE films (Original Version) available in your areaDark Night RisesCinesur Fuengirola16.00 19.00 22.00Cines Gran Marbella16:15 19:15Yelmo, Plaza Mayor17:30 19:15 19:30 20:40 22:30 22:45 23:55

The Amazing Spider-manCinesur Fuengirola16:00 18:30 21:15 23:45Yelmo, Plaza Mayor3D 16:30 19:30 22:152D 18:15 21:15 00:15

The DictatorYelmo, Plaza Mayor18:00 20:00 22:00 0:20

Ice Age 4Cinesur Fuengirola16:15 18:15Cines Gran Marbella16:00 18:00Yelmo, Plaza Mayor17:40

Snow White and the HuntsmanYelmo, Plaza Mayor22:25

Moonrise KingdomYelmo, Plaza Mayor18:10 20:10 22:10 00:10

Men in Black 3Yelmo, Plaza Mayor3D 00:55

The AvengersYelmo, Plaza Mayor23:50Gibraltar: King Bastion, Leisure Ctr. Cinema

Ice Age 4daily 18:00 weekends 16:00

Storage 24daily 18:30

Spider-manweekends 15:30 daily 21:00

What to Expectdaily 20:30

PopseliciousThis month’s recipe:

IS the hot weather putting you off cooking treats this summer? Why not try these fun home-made popsicles? It’s a great way to cool down – and no cooking. Kids will have fun making them, and love eating them.

35www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 201231la culturaJuly 26, 2012

35

what’s on

El Gastor, July 28, Chiringuito Las

Crespas. Chillout music and jam session - everyone welcome to come and listen and participate. Bar, barbecue and swimming pool. Watch this space for August concert dates.

Estepona Until August 14.

Estepona Port Business and Internet Centre presentsThe Works of Mike Emeney and His Class. Mike will be displaying his popular works interspersed with those of his pupils.

Ronda Until July 31. Sala

Fundacion Unicaja. An exhibition of artistsAlfonso Ibanez, Antonia Gonzalez and Maria Gonzalez.

Marbella Until September 15.

The Plaza Antonio Banderas, PuertoBanus. 12th International Poetry and Craft Exhibition. A display ofwares, poetry,music and dancing depicting up to 50 different cultures.

Malaga Until September

16. The Picasso Museum presents The European Poster 1888-1938. 175 works showcasing the most important period in the history of the poster.

Dekorum

ARTY ALMERIAAN exciting new exhibition bringing together the talents of eight international artists has been unveiled at the Cortijo El Saltador in Almeria.Among the artists on display is the late American artist Fritz Mooney who spent the later part of his life living in Mojacar and Bedar.Painter and filmmaker Angel Mejias from Bedar will also be showcasing his work alongside David Briggs, who cre-ates sculptures from marble and bronze, Vidal Hurtado, who works with ceramics, the painter and poet Emilio Mal-domado, photographer Steve Brockett, Rafael Ebrero and Jaume Prohens.The exhibition - close to the village of Lucainena de las Tor-res - runs until September 15.

GIBRALTAR’S biggest ever dance festival is set to attract some of the best DJs to the Rock this summer.Dekorum Ultra Beach Festival will see house music acts including David Cherish, Russ Yallop and Eats Everything performing at Eastern Beach on August 5.The event - hosted by one of London’s biggest clubs, Pacha - will also feature Saytek, described as ‘one of the UK’s freshest and most exciting acts’.Lucy Stone (left), resident DJ at Hed Kandi since September 2010, and G. W. Harrison, who has been on the scene since he was just 13 years old, are also set to make an appearance.The night runs from 6pm-6am, with tickets priced from £20. For more information, visit www.dekorum-musica.com.By Emily Batty

Pacha coming to Gibraltar

Bardem (left) joins hundreds in protest against the massive hike in VAT that will hit cinemas

SPANISH heartthrob Javier Bardem has lent his sup-port to a mass street protest against austerity measures, including a massive hike in VAT, which he said is killing Spain’s cultural sector.

The Hollywood actor joined hundreds of fellow artists in a demonstration outside the culture ministry, as part of a wider workers’ protest on the streets of Madrid last week.

The No Country for Old Men star echoed nation-wide complaints that a VAT (IVA) rise and other auster-ity measures will punish ordinary Spaniards unfairly and cut off their access to the arts.“This raising of VAT means that they are generally kill-ing cultural activity in this country,” he said.“This is a very unjust situ-ation because the govern-ment, rather than making the financial sector pay for the consequences of what they’ve done, they put all the weight on unemployed people, sick people, pen-sioners.“They’re going to empty this country, killing the future for a lot of generations,” added the actor, who said

he was ‘privileged’ to make a living from acting in films outside Spain, at a time when many Spaniards are leaving the country to look for work.

It comes as the Spanish cin-ema federation (FECE), that represents around 80 per cent of the country’s movie theatres, ruled not to strike over the 13 per cent hike in VAT as it would ‘further ag-gravate the situation and do more harm to the customer.’

RocketTheatre and cinema tickets were previously charged VAT at a reduced rate but this has now been cancelled.The rate is set to rocket from eight per cent to 21 per cent from September 1, making it higher than in other coun-tries including Britain (which applies 20 per cent), Italy (10 per cent), France and Germa-ny (seven per cent).

Staying Alive in San RoqueTHE UK’s top Bee Gees tribute band, Stayin Alive, is set to perform at the San Roque Club Suites Ho-tel. The band, who have paid tribute to the Gibb broth-ers for the last 14 years, will perform by the hotel swimming pool on July 26. Tickets, which can be purchased from Tango’s Restaurant at the San Roque Club Suites Hotel, include entrance to the international food village with a Hog Roast and Mojito Bar.

ANGRY: Bardem joins in the fight above

They’re killing our culture

36 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012la cultura36

HE once wrote to his wife to say he was going to go to bed early because he couldn’t stand the Andalucians.But now Joaquin Sorolla is returning to Granada. An exhibition of the Valencia painter’s work inspired by Andalucia’s Arabic palaces is going on display in the Al-hambra’s Palacio de Carlos V.Sorolla initially travelled to Sevilla in 1908 with a com-mission to paint Alfonso XIII, ‘and had a terrible

time,’ explained the ex-hibition’s curator, Tomas Llorens. He hated the bull-fights, and the flamenco made him dizzy.“He wrote to his wife that he was going to go to bed early because he couldn’t stand the Andalucians.” But when he ‘discovered’ the Alcazar and later the Alhambra, he became captivated with An-dalucia beginning to paint patios, marble, ceramics, ponds and columns.

EarthquakeNow, the Jardines de Luz (Gardens of Light) reveals a collection of 50 oil paint-ings, more than two-thirds on loan from the Sorolla Museum, arranged in seven sections.The exhibition, which was originally meant to be dis-played in Ferrara in Italy but had to be closed after an earthquake struck the re-gion, runs until October 14.

EXPAT EASELSA GROUP of expat artists have come together to put on an exciting new exhibition for the summer.Perfectly Seasoned combines the talents of British art-ists Ian Hunter, Richard Wood, Sally Huntington and Don Widdall, and well-known Finnish artist Genevieve Wendelin.The joint venture can be seen at Jinete, Carretera La Cala Golf Km 4.5, Mijas Costa until September 10.

Back with the Andalucians he ‘couldn’t stand’: Sorolla at the Alhambra

RADIOHEAD singer Thom York has criticised Spanish banks during a headlining set at BBK Festival in Bil-bao, calling on Spaniards to take to the streets.“We know in Spain you’re having a lot of trouble,” he said. “Cuts, cuts, no money. Well we think you should be taking to the streets. “Someone stole that money off you - The banks.”The controversial com-ments were made at the event which is sponsored ironically by the bank BBK.

Bash the banks, say Radiohead

THEY are long-serving bastions of the British electro scene, producing a steady stream of huge commercial hits while maintaining their underground credibility.Now big beat pioneers the Chemical Brothers are set to bring their armoury of sounds to Spain at Creamfields Andalucia. The duo will perform one of their fabled dj sets at the two-day festival, which runs from Au-gust 10-11 at the Circuito de Velocidad in Jerez.Joining them on the bill will be fellow British dance innovators Orbital - considered by Q magazine as one of their ‘50 Bands to See Be-fore you Die’. Other acts include Tiesto, James Holden and Yuksek.Tickets from €40. Visit www.creamfields-andalucia.com for more information.

Chemicals are Creaming up

TV troubleSPANISH TV channel An-tena 3 has been ordered to pay a €215,000 fine for re-peatedly showing false pho-tos about Morocco to sup-port a ‘political cause’.A Belgian court ruled in favour of the Rachidi fam-ily arguing the channel had used ‘in bad faith, false and incorrect information to support a political cause’.It comes after the channel showed graphic pictures of four dead bodies in Novem-ber 2010 presenting them as victims of police brutal-ity in Gdim Yzik (Laayoune) when they were in fact four members of a family mur-dered in Casablanca.

37www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012la cultura 37

AN exciting event blending world-class wine and music will take place on August 14 in Jerez.Guests will be invited to stroll around the famous sherry bodega Gonzalez Byass while musicians from the Soloists of Lon-don, accompanied by world renowned pia-nist Martin Cousin, beguile them with the

A classical blend at Tio’s

Tickets: €20 in advance (or €25 if paid on the door), €16 extra for tapas.For more information phone 617 276 161 or [email protected]

Top tipple and tuneful sounds can be enjoyed at a special classical music event at Gonzalez Byass

likes of Vivaldi, Schubert and Beethoven. Meanwhile punters can sip carefully-select-ed wines, chosen to complement the music - with each ‘mini’ concert accompanied by a different wine.The evening will culminate in a spectacu-lar finale of a Mozart piano concerto in the Royal bodega ‘La Concha’.

READY TO IMPRESS: The Soloists of London pictured in Trujillo last year

38 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 la cultura38

THE Olive Press is now officially a work of art.Belgian artist Marleen Pauwels, 52, is using old copies of the newspaper in

her latest work.“It was funny, I asked my friend for some cop-ies of the Olive Press and she thought I want-ed to use it to put on the floor as rubbish but I had to explain that no, I actually use it as part of my work,” explained the expat, who lives in El Gastor with her husband Kris Heyse, who is also an artist. “I read through the whole thing and if I see a

BED FOR THE NIGHT: Lenox Napier from Mojacar uses the OP to line the hutch of his rabbit, Bungus. “We have lots of animals so we have to be resourceful!”

How do youuse yours?

headline I like, I use that.“It is not always visible. In my work I build up different layers and textures using paper and sand.“You cannot see the text from a distance; you have to look closely to find the text inside the layers. But if people are interested in it, they look closely, they explore the work and they find the text, which always has something to do with my subject.“My work is very abstract but the titles reflect the story I want to tell.”

For more information visit:www.marleenpauwels.com

In our last issue the Olive Press called on our readers to tell us what they do with their old copies of the paper. Here we share a few ideas…


40 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012The Olive Press NOW has 33,000 papers delivered across EIGHT provinces of Andalucia and Gibraltar every fortnight by our hard-working team of distributors

IF YOUR NORMAL DISTRIBUTION SPOT HAS CLOSED OR DOES NOT HAVE PAPERS THIS WEEK PLS EMAIL [email protected]

ALAMEDAMobile Home Park • Posada Tempranillo • Petrol Station • Casa Benito

ALCALAConexions • Hotel Torrepalma • Library • Tourist Office • Optico Real • Hotel Zacatin • Estate Agent Andaluz • BP

ALGATOCINBP Service Station

ALHAURIN el Grande Alhaurin Golf • La Boma Rest. • 1st and 2nd Tabacconist • Annas Butchers • Christinas Paper Shop • Arte Hair • Martins Paper Shop • British Supermarket • Posh Pets • Cudeca •

ALHAURIN de la TorreBP • Las Brisas Restaurante • Montemar Restaurante • Lauro Golf

ALMUNECARSpar Supermercado • Tourist Office • El Faro Bar • Olivares Shop • Danny s Bar

ALORAHarveys • Tropicana • Repsol PetrolCudeca • Zalea Bar

ALOZAINAPetrol Station

ANTASFrandi • The Full Swing • El Poligono • Costa Cars

ANTEQUERALidl • La Veronica • Antequera Golf • Tourist Office • Hotel Plaza San Sebastian • BP • Hotel Las Villas de Antikaria

ARCHIDONACepsa Garage • 3R Café /Bar • Mercadona Garage • Sunset Estates

ARDALESPaco’s Bar

ARRIATEPetrol Station

ATAJATEAndalazar

BEDARTown Hall • Empalme • CajamarOlive

BENADALIDLos Labros

BENAHAVISCanela Cafe /Bar • Amanhavis

BENALAURIALa Molienda

BENALMADENA COSTASuper Save • Hapenny Bridge Pub • Kiosko Puerto (Marina) • Tourist Office • Paloma Library • Irish Time Bar • Xanit Hospital • UK Foods

BENAMARGOSALa Vaqueria

BENAOJANMeroil • Papeleria Ruiz • Hotel Molino del Santo• Cuatro Paradas

BENAVISTABowls Club • Card Shop • Ibex Insurance • Grumbles • English Butcher • Costa Less Supermarket • Plaza Hotel • Dog House • Brubecks • El Paraiso Golf •Petrol Station • Kids Kingdom • Agro Jardin • Calpe School • Pegotty’s Fish & Chips • Experience Group

BENAMACARRAHotel Cortijo Bravo

BUBIONSupermercado Coviran

CABOPINOPina Pinaka • Cabo Pizza • Sportsmans Bar • Cabopino Camping • Garage •Shebeens Pub • Paper ShopSupermarket • Plaza Bar • Alberts Restaurant

CABRATourist Office

CADIARPagamenos

CALAHONDAAge Care • Party Party • The Pit Shop • Sol Finders • GT Mc Kenna Butchers • Internet Café • Mercadona • Spikes Hairdressers • RBL • Club Naranja • Plaza next to Paper Shop

CALYPSOMPA Estates (Bryce) • Inspirations Haidressers

CAMPILLOSKiosk • BP Petrol Station

CAPILEIRESupermercado Coviran • Bar

CARTAMA ESTACIONAguamania • Topres

CASABERMEJAPetrol Station

CASARESArroyo Honda • Venta Victoria • Venta Garcia • Villas and Fincas • La Tienda •Mi Cortijo • Muebles Gavira

CHICLANALHD • Monopoly • Oasis Bar • Tourist Office • Posthouse

COINTourist Office • Cudeca • Guerreros • Insurance Office • Bohem Rest. • Internacional • La Trocha • Chain • Leslies • BP • Buyrite • Robertos

COLMENARCO2 • Bar Campesino

COMPETATodo Papel • Pavo Real and Restaurant • Sugar and spice • Alicats

CORTESCamping el Salitre • El Gecko • Mary Becker • La Fuente

CORTIJO CABRERARestaurant

CORDOBABodegas Campos • Hotel Casas de la Juderia • La Fragua

CUEVAS DEL BECERROPetrol Station

DIANARoyal Nordic Club • Man Friday Supermarket • Super Market • Aud Dublin • Big BlueBox

DUQUESA PORTPaparazzi Neswagents • Supermarket • Las Gallerias • English Butcher • Duquesa Golf Club • Marlows Restaurant • Souvenir Shop • Gaston Golf • Manilva Properties • Monte Duquesa Sq • La Bella Vista Camping • Clubhouse Bar • Duquesa Estates • Castillo Foreign Resident Centre • Macues Restaurant • Penguin Bar

El CHORROOlive Branch BB • El Kiosko • Hotel Posada el Conde • Rest. Boca Bella

EL FAROEl Faro Supermarket • Carlton Bar

EL ROSARIOBar • Bar • Town Hall

ELVIRIAMartys Hairdressers • Bio Nature Shop • Town Hall • EIC School •Beach House Restaurant •Aventura Amazonia •El Lago Restaurant

ESTEPABP Garage

ESTEPONAHospiten • Best Coches • Arte Escuela Ecuestre Restaurant • Pointer Vets • Eden Bar • Laguna Village Entrance • Terra SanaDigi Print • Optica Machin • Carrefour • Longmans Bookshop • Fergussons Bar • Cudeca Bar • Dune Bar • Furniture World • Padel and Sports • Techo Aluminio • Lidls • Amapola • Tourist Centre • Estepona Golf • International Club of Estepona • Costa Nature • Albayat Resort • Muebles Gavira

ESTEPONA MARINASailors Cafe • Business Centre EportBicUniversal Estate Agents • The Irish FiddlerMarlow Chip Chop

FRIGILIANAHotel Almazara

FUENGIROLAIceland • Camping Fuengirola • Scotties

Butchers • Salon Varieties • BP • Specsavers • Cudeca • Dunnes Stores • Yorkshire Linen • Speedy s Garage • RMDC Glass • Euro Market • St. Anthony s College • Tamisa Golf Hotel

FUENTE DE PIEDRABar Rebujito • Corner Bar • Diane’s • Donkey Sanctuary

GARRUCHAClinica Veterinaria

GAUCINRepsol Petrol Station • Hotel Caballo Andaluz • Pura Vida Health Shop • Benassim Deli • Fructosa • El Convento • Casa Antonia • La Fuente • El Puente

GIBRALTARBray Properties • Café Fresco • Kristina Szekely • Laziz Rest. • Ipanema Rest. • O’Reileys • Ocean Village Express • Ibex Insurance • Morrisons • Savills • Rock Hotel • Elliot Hotel • Sacarellos • Icc Shoping Centre • Chamber of Commerce • Cafe Solo • Copywrite • Café Rojo • Colourworks • MH Bland • Sovereign • Rolex • Caleta Hotel • Ibex Insurance

GRANADA Airport • Hotel Macia Plaza • La Romanilla • Hotel Fontecruz Granada • Metro Bookshop • Hannigans 1 • Hannigans 2 • Tourist Office • El Catrachod • Jardines de Zoraya • La Alacena de Andalucia • Hotel Palacio de Santa

GUADALMINATricky Rickys • Bookworld

GUAROPetrol Station

IZNAJARBP • The Yoga School • Sueños • Los Cuatro Vientos Bar

JEREZLos Jandalos • Tourist Office

JIMENA DE LA FRONTERACepsa• Papeleria Los Garabatos • Bar Cuenca • La Tasca • Hostal Anon • Bar Oba • Estate Agents • Casa Henrietta

JIMERA DE LIBAR ESTACIONBar Allioli

LA CALA DE MIJASCorner Café • Lions Charity Shop • Pensioners Bar • Internet Café • Papeleria

Quetzal • Captains Bar • Zurich Office • BP Garage

LA CALETAPapeleria las Colonias

LA HERRADURAThe Hideaway Bar • Libreria Coral • La Tartana Hotel

LA VINUELAHotel Vinuela

LANJARONAmbienza • Cafe Bar Health • Tourist Information • Los Llanos

LAS BUGANVILLASVictor’s • Cactus

LECRIN VALLEYE.S Leman Gasolina

LOJACafe Continental • Repsol garage

LOS GALLARDOSUnicaja • Subministros Ridao • Gas station • Camping los Gallardos

LOS ROMANESCamping Bar

LUCENACarrefour Pet Shop • Hotel Bronces • B.P near the fire stn.

MALAGA CITYBritish Consulate • Café Andino • Dunkin Coffee • Hotel Tribuna • Pizzeria el Laboratorio • Restaurante Vino Mio • Hotel EL Pintor • Calle Brusseles • Celtic Irish Bar • Café con Libro • Picasso • Robert Boyd • Hotel Don Curro • Hotel Molino Larios • Tourist Office • Hotel Vinci

MALAGA AIRPORTHelle Hollis • Car Parking Malaga • Easy Park • Aena Information Desk • Monarch

MANILVAKwasi Cafe • Curtain & Bedding • English bookshop.Manilva Solicitors • Dr Santos Centro de Balud • Fathom’s Bar • Natura Garden Centre • Vets • Eden Gift Shop • Visage Hair Salon • Coast to Coast Properties.

MARBELLALa Cuisine • Casa del Te • Hotel Fuerte • Hotel Morada la Hermosa • Town House Hotel• Villa Marbella Hotel • Swans International School • Vergola • Puente Romano Hotel• Polo House • Absolute Café

• Deli next Door • Casa Mono • Casanis• Lawbird

MIJAS PUEBLOTourist Office • Town Hall • BP Garage

MIJAS ROADWorld of Furniture • Centro Idea Danish Centre

MOJACARGas station • Masko • HabanaKoi • Marina de la Torre Club • Costa Coches • Kasbah Romantic • Sal’sDiego Ortega • Pippas • La ColleraPaco • El Olivo • Comptoir de la Crepe • Jolly Lemon • Total entertainment • Tomas • Mojacar Estates • Beachcomber • H Puntazo • Trufibar • Clinica Dental (Parque comercial) • Kimrick • Parador

MOJACAR PUEBLOCentro de Arte Municipal • Thao • English Library • Bar Pavana

MOLLINABar Margarita • And Estates • Brit Shop • Lazy Days Mobile Home Park •Saydo park

MONDAPaper Shop • Petrol St.

MONTEFRIOAlan Russell

MONTE HALCONESOne stop café (Ronda road) • Irish café

MONTEJAQUEHotel Montejaque • Las Casitas

MOTRILAki • Café AL Campo • Tourist OfficeLos Moriscos Golf • Bar/ Rest Moriscos • Ideal Papeleria • Gran Elba Hotel

NERJAHotel Carabeo • English Book Shop • Supermercado Iranzo • Dancers Bar • Smiths Bookshop • Tourist Office • John the Barber • H2O Bar • Keyhomes Estates Agents • Team Estate AgentsMojito Bar

NUEVA ANDALUCIAAloha News • Garden Bar • Yanks • Wilsons • Alberts • La Sala • Mad Hatters • Terra Sana • N10 Hotel • RWK furniture

OLVERAPetrol Station • Dynos • Olvera Properties • Via Verde • Rest. El Puerto

ORGIVA

Indoor Market • Camac • Internet Café • Alpujarra Supermercado • Baraka

PAMPANEIRAHotel • Gasolinera

PERIANACantueso

PITRESCamping • Bar • Bar

PIZARRAKiwi • Aliprox

PRIEGO DE CORDOBATourist office • Kiosko maribelCepsa garage x2

PUENTE DON MANUELPetrol Station • Moreno’s • Petts Dentist • English Shop • Arkwrights • Bar Atilla

PUERTO BANUSVIPS • Gift Shop (Port) • Moneycorp • Mumtaz • Jacks • Bookworld • Iceland • Cravings • Kristina Zekely • La Sala • Starz Cafe

PUERTO REY (VERA)Club Deportivo • La Esquina

RINCON DE LA VICTORIATourist Office • Hotel Rincon SolAnoreta Golf

RIO FRIOHotel Almazara

RIOGORDOCoviran

RIVIERA DEL SOLMiraflores Bowls Club • La Terraza Supermarket • La Terraza Paper Shop

RONDAMolino del Puente • BP • Almocabar • Bar San Francisco • Tourist Office • Siete de Copas • Atrium • Chocolate • Casa Ortega • Osaka • TragaTapas • Hotel Maestranza • Hotel ColonHotel Polo • Hotel Don Miguel • Locutorio • Serrania Services • Libreria Dumas • Huskies

RUTEEstanco

SABINILLASEnglish Bookshop • Eden • Hairdresser • Coast to Coast • Bar • Lidls

SALINASCasa Monolo • Meson Estacion

SALOBRENAHotel Salobrena • Correos • Tourist Office • Café Goya • 1616 Books • Abyla Papeleria • Restaurante Flores • Café Emilio

SAN PEDROTourist Office • Passion Café • TRE Radio Station • Staysure • Book Shop by N10

SAN ROQUESan Roque Golf Suites Reception area and golf clubhouse • Okay cafe • Supermarket

SIERRA DE YEGUASKiosko

SOTOGRANDE GUADIARONewsagent • Corner Café • Lemon Tree Café • Estate Agent • English Butcher Shop • Sotofiesta • Terra SanaBusiness Centre NH Hotel • Abbeygate Insurance • Mara Rest. • Anglo Wines • Lidls • Videola • Irish Pub • Hairy Lemon •La Terrace •Cafe Ke

TARIFATourist Office • lidl • cafe central • hurricane hotel •hotels in centre

TEBAMeson de Diego

TOLOXCross Road Bar

TORRE DEL MARPapeleria el Faro • English Bookshop Pasatiempo • Expatriate Help Centre • Lukuma • Baviera Golf • Las Yucas • Cudeca

TORREMOLINOSTourist Offices x 3 • Cudeca Town CentreBaileys Pub • BP Garage (Towards Benalmadena) •others

TORROXRussels English Shop • Sol y Sombra • Light of India • El Pino English Shop • Tourist Office

TRIANABar Triana

TURREFundraiser • Chili • Zambra • Super Turre • Casa Diego • Total entertainment • Tio Tomas

UBEDAGolden Poppy English Center

UGIJARJuan’s Bar and Bookshop

VEJERBookend, Hotel Califa, Tourist Office, Castilleria

VELEZ MALAGAGarden Centre La Palma • Eroski Centre • Bar Jamaica • Dunnes

VERAIceland (Suzzanne) • Galasa • Terraza Carmona

VILLANUEVA DE ALGAIDASLa Bodeguita

VILLANUEVA DE ROSARIOBar • Bar • Town hall

VILLANUEVA DE TAPIALa Paloma Rest.

VILLANUEVA DE TRABUCORonnies • La Plaza • La Rubia • El Rincon de Teresa • Trabuco Books

YUNQUERAPetrol St.

ZAHARA DE LA SIERRAAl Lago

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42 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 44

43www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 201245Top alud!S 43

My baby miracle

THAT extra hour in bed in the morning could be bad for your brain.New research has shown that those who restrict themselves to sleeping seven hours a night can prevent their brain from ageing by an ex-tra two years, compared with those who snooze too long.Scientists in America looked at 15,000 women in their seven-ties over five years and found that those who managed seven hours a night had far better concentration

Vanesa Pastor has finally realised her dream of becoming a mother despite losing both ovaries

A WOMAN whose ovaries had been removed due to cancer has successfully given birth in the first operation of its kind in Spain.Vanesa Pastor, 28, gave birth to son Mario on June 11 after a healthy pregnancy, despite hav-ing been diagnosed with ovarian

cancer in 2009.When the woman from Aragon, who had always dreamed of be-coming a mother, was told by doctors both ovaries would have to be removed, she nearly aban-doned hope of having a baby.“My world came crashing down,’’ explained the proud new mum.

But determined, Pastor contact-ed the Dexeus Foundation for Women’s Health who told her her only hope of pregnancy lay with her uterus.Luckily, the uterus was found to be free of cancer and, after be-ing given the all-clear, in vitro fertilisation was started.

A total of 14 eggs were ex-tracted from her right ovary (before being removed) and cryogenically frozen until Pastor recovered from the cancer.

Cancer-freeTwo of the eggs were then fertilised with sperm from Pastor’s partner and im-planted into the cancer-free uterus.Pastor is said to be ‘very happy’ with new-born Ma-rio and has the option of be-coming a mum again as two other eggs are still viable.

Heroic feet

A 10-YEAR-OLD boy who lost both his feet in a road accident could be walking again with-in six months after undergoing pio-neering surgery in Granada.The only thing youngster David has been left with is reduced ankle movement, despite suffering what sur-geons described as ‘catastrophic’ inju-ries.The six-and-a-half-hour procedure to reattach the limbs was carried out by Dr Pedro Cavadas, known as the ‘mira-cle’ doctor, with the boy declaring that he ‘wants to be like Cavadas’.

and memories than those who slept for nine hours.Meanwhile, those who got less than five hours were also found to suffer.There is already evidence that having more than seven hours of sleep a night can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of heart problems and diabe-tes, but the new study is one of the first to link it to concentration problems.“The public health implications of

these findings could be substantial,” said lead re-searcher Elizabeth Devore.

“They might lead to the eventual iden-tification of sleep-based strategies for reducing risk of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s.”A spokesman for the Alzheimer’s Society added: “A good night’s sleep is one of life’s pleasures but, once again, this robust research suggests that the quality and duration of sleep are also linked to our cogni-tive health.”

MATERNAL BLISS: Pastor with newborn son Mario

BED HEAD

44 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 Top Salud!44

Playing Russian roulette with life

WHOOPING cough is on the rise following a tenfold increase in the number of cases so far this year compared with the same pe-riod in 2010, according to the Health Pro-tection Agency.The disease has already affected nearly 1,800 adults and children this year, almost double the number in the whole of 2008.Explanations for the rise include greater detection by doctors - who have been warned to look out for the disease - and waning immunity because the effects of the vaccine reduce in time.“Cases do increase every three to four years and this is the case the world over - it seems to be a characteristic of the disease,” said Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam from the Health Pro-tection Agency. “Our last major outbreak was in 2008 so we were due another one.”

S-whooping down

Scottish expat kept waiting over seven months for

‘urgent’ surgery

A SCOTTISH expat who suf-fered a heart attack seven months ago is still waiting for the bypass surgery he should have received within days of the attack.Wynne Donnelly, 66, was rushed to Ronda Hospital in December 2011 after suf-fering a heart attack. He was later transferred to Malaga’s Virgen de la Victoria Hospi-tal after doctors realised he needed a bypass operation.Initially, doctors classified the surgery as urgent and planned it for the next two to three days, but Donnel-ly’s allergy to aspirin post-poned the process.When his condition did not worsen, doctors sent Don-nelly home without clarify-ing when he would receive the operation.Soon after, he received a letter from the hospital in-dicating he would have the surgery within six months.It has now been seven months.

Waiting“The hospital still has us on the waiting list,” Donnelly’s wife, Linda, told the Olive Press. “Aside from a check-up which we requested, the hospital has not been in touch with us.”Concerned about her hus-band’s deteriorating situ-ation – characterised by severe fatigue and bouts of intense dizziness– she took him to a general practitio-ner in Ronda for a profes-sional opinion.“He told us the hospital is playing Russian roulette with his life,” added Don-

nelly. “He needs an opera-tion soon.” When the Olive Press con-tacted the hospital, a spokes-

man said: “For most patients awaiting surgery we cannot realistically predict the date of the operation.”

A PILL to treat Alzheimer’s could now help nearly 800,000 people in Spain currently suffering from the disease.Betrinac, developed by Welsh physician Andrew McCaddon, has been shown to successfully treat those with memory problems in the United States. And it has now become available for pur-chase in Spain and throughout Europe. Touted as a vitamin supplement, the new pill is believed to more effectively combat memory loss than previous treatments, which contain B vitamins alone.The key ingredient is an antioxidant called NAC – found in a range of foods including peppers and asparagus – that acts by increasing the amount of glu-tathione in the brain, a compound in-volved in making a major neurotrans-mitter called acetylcholine, which Al-zheimer’s patients are lacking. More acetylcholine means greater mem-ory function and reduced symptoms.NAC is already used to treat paracetamol poisoning – also known as Tylenol over-dose – and to break up the mucus in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients.Doctors are optimistic that it will pro-duce positive results in Alzheimer’s pa-tients.

New pill for Alzheimer’s

By Rund Abdelfatah

WAITING GAME: Donnelly with wife Linda

45www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 201251Top Salud! 45

We’ll fight them on the beachesBeaches across Malaga have been invaded by jellyfish, come for the summer season but hopefully not here to stay

• Purple-striped jellyfish- aka mauve stingers: These increasingly common creatures have wreaked havoc on the Costa del Sol, causing the closure of a number of beaches. They are usually small but pack a powerful punch.

• Portuguese man o’ war - aka blue bot-tle: Although not technically jellyfish, these critters can deliver an agonising sting causing vomiting and fainting in some cases. They are usually found floating at the surface of the water with long, thin tendrils extending 10 metres.

• Fried egg jellyfish: A small but beauti-ful jellyfish which gets its name from its fried-egg shaped body. Its sting has little effect on humans.

• Moon jellyfish: One of the most com-mon jellyfish in the world, these trans-lucent creatures are often sold com-mercially as pets. The sting is harmless to humans.

• Compass jellyfish: With brown spots and a saucer-shaped bell, this jellyfish can often be found drifting on the sea surface. It can deliver a nasty sting.

Jellyfish sting symptoms:• Painful and itchy rash around the af-

fected area• Raised welts sometimes accompany

the rash• Nausea and vomiting• Muscles spasms and abdominal pain• The lymph nodes may swell and turn

red in the case of an allergic reaction to the sting

• Severe reactions can cause breathing difficulties and (rarely) death

What to do if you’ve been stung:• Bathe the area with a generous helping

of vinegar for 15 minutes• If vinegar is not at hand use salt water,

not fresh water, to clean out the area• Remove the stinging tentacles with

tweezers –do not attempt to remove them with fingers as this can lead to further stings

• Shave the area with a razor or scrape it with a credit card to ensure all the de-bris from the jellyfish is removed

• Eye stings should be rinsed out with sa-line solution. The area around the eye can then be bathed in vinegar. Do not put vinegar directly onto your eyes

• If you suspect you’re having an allergic reaction to the sting, go straight to a doctor

WITH the summer in full swing, it is time to put on your shades and enjoy the sunshine.But while you may know your Ray Bans from your Oakleys, there are plenty of other things to consider when picking your ideal pair of sunglasses.Unprotected exposure to sunlight can cause significant damage to the eyes and over time can contribute to cataracts, cancer of the eyelids and the skin around the eyes, and macular degeneration which is the leading cause of blindness in the UK.This is why sunglasses are so important, but while it is now possible to buy the latest trends for just a few euros, not all sunglasses are good for you.In fact some cheap sunglasses could actually be causing more harm than good.So here we offer you some top tips for buying sunglasses so you can look good and stay safe at the same time.

• Look for the UV rating. The main causes of damage to your eyes are the UV rays and whether it is on a small sticker on the lenses or on a small tag attached to the frame, you should always look for 100 per cent UV protection.

• Consider the frames. In this case bigger is better. Always look for ones that cover more of the face around the eyes as smaller glasses allow light to flood in at the top and sides. The best designs for protection are the wraparound ones.

• Don’t go by the colour. The colour of the lens, even if really dark, has no bearing on the UV protection. The outer coating (which is clear) filters out the UV rays and darker co-lours can actually fool your eye into opening up more and letting in more harmful rays.

• Price is not important. Sometimes the higher price just means you are getting more expensive frames not more protection. The most important thing is the UV rating.

SLIMEY: Don’t let these sea critters slip past your radar

DOZENS of beaches in Malaga province have played host to swarms or ‘blooms’ of jellyfish this summer, closing several beaches in Marbella and Estepona and administering more than 1,000 stings within a three-day period.Many bathers have been on the wrong end of the gelatinous varmint, whose sting causes a painful rash that can last for up to three days.According to Spain’s tourist office, the

marine stingers are the venomous pur-ple striped jellyfish.Their stings, although almost never fa-tal, have been known to cause severe allergic reactions.Here, the Olive Press looks at the dif-ferent types of stingers in the Mediter-ranean, why they are becoming such a problem for bathers on the Costa del Sol and what can be done to protect yourself from eye-watering stings.

A shade above the restThe Olive Press offers some top tips on what to look for when buying sunglasses…

A BRITISH school-girl has been left with a badly swollen face after a terrify-ing allergic reaction to cheap sunglasses while on holiday in Spain.Laura Musson (right) has said she thought she would die after her head, eyes and nose swelled to twice their normal size.Doctors told her she had suffered severe allergic reactions and confirmed plas-tic in the sunglass-es, she had bought for just €1.20 from

a High Street shop, was the most likely cause.Now she wants to warn other holiday-makers about the dangers of wearing cheap sunglasses.“It was terrifying. I honestly thought I would die,” ex-plained Musson, who was celebrat-ing finishing her A Levels on holiday in Mallorca.“I looked like a dif-ferent person, like I had been badly beaten up.“It was the first time we’d ever been

abroad without our parents but it was totally ruined by a pair of £1 sunglass-es. “Don’t buy them it’s not worth it.”

Sunglasses horror

EYESORE: Laura’s face


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For more information visit www.simplecarehealthplan.com

Health taxEXPATS and residents in Spain will be required to contribute to the cost of medical prescriptions, as of this month.Anyone making less than €18,000 per year will pay up to 40 per cent of the prescription cost with a cap at €8, while those earning more than €18,000 will pay

half the cost with a cap at €18.While the UK will continue to pay Spain an annual cost to provide healthcare for its pensioners, British expats are not exempt from this

BMI, which stands for Body Mass Index, has proved to be one of the most unreliable tools to de-termine whether a person is over-

weight or obese.Sports figures, extremely tall people, ex-tremely short people, bodybuilders, gym-nasts, are very likely to have high BMI’s as it fails to take into account things like body fat, muscle, bone structure, and who knows what else. A better option for weight loss is RMR or Resting Metabolic Rate.This is an indirect measure of the num-ber of calories your body needs to main-tain normal physiological function i.e. the amount of calories your body would need at rest to keep your heart, lungs, brain and other organs working properly.Even people with a similar age, gender, and body composition can have very dif-ferent RMRs so it is important to get data that relates specifically to you. An RMR test will give you the information you need to set and reach realistic goals related to weight management, proper nutrition, and health.Fast and slow metabolisms are phrases that are common in everyday life, but may be difficult to comprehend. A good way to understand the body’s me-tabolism is to think about it as fuel effi-ciency, as one would a car. A person with a fast metabolism would have low fuel efficiency, in car terms a Hummer. In contrast, a person with a slow metabolism would have high fuel efficiency, in car terms a Toyota Prius (51mpg).

Forget your BMIRaymond Prats explores why Body Mass Index is an unreliable tool for determining if a person is overweight and why we should use Resting Metabolic Rate instead…

The main determiner in the speed of a per-son’s metabolism is genetics; however life-style and body composition can play a role as well.

How is RMR performed?RMR is done with gas analysis through in-direct calorimetry which calculates the heat we produce from production of carbon diox-ide and nitrogen waste or from oxygen con-sumption. This process is easy and not invasive; it only takes about 30 minutes. The specialist puts the patient’s informa-tion into the RMR machine while the patient relaxes in a chair and breaths into a tube that is connected to the RMR machine for 30 minutes. After the test, results are discussed with the patient to ensure understanding and to an-swer any questions.To know your RMR is to know how many calories you can eat in a day to maintain, lose or gain weight. Knowing these numbers would mean peo-ple would be less likely to give up on their weight-loss effort.

Tips to increase your metabolism: • Get plenty of sleep• Decrease stress• Stay hydrated• Eat small frequent meals• Exercise regularly (particularly resistance

training)

Prescription drugs now come at a cost in Spain

tax.The long term goal is to integrate this rate of pay information into the SIP card - which enters expats into the healthcare system in Spain. However, for those who have not declared an annual resident tax, blanket charg-es will apply.Non-pensioners with low incomes pay 40 per cent and pensioners pay 10 per cent. No income information means no cap on your monthly contribution.

A MASS breastfeeding event is to take place in Gibraltar to raise awareness of the benefits of suckling infants. As part of the Big Latch On, Gibraltar, along with other communities across the world, will welcome thousands of women to take part in the event on August 3 and 4.Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of future health problems for both mother and baby including breast cancer.Registration will start at Cafe Solo, Casemates at 10am.

Mother knows breast

47www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012J U 47

p the ardin path

PESTS - whether in the house, the gar-den or just buzzing around the patio

- can be a nuisance, an irritant and can cause se-rious damage to property, plants and persons alike.But there are a number of natural herbal remedies for all kinds of pests, many growing wild here in Andalucia.A pest we all get in our houses from time to time is ants.And while there are any number of chemical prod-ucts you can buy, ants hate mint! It interferes with their smelling capabilities. I have effectively used fresh leaves around the base of my coriander plants, to stop the ants stealing my coriander seed! I also put a line of mint es-sential oil across my front

door, to stop them entering the house. Cinnamon sticks are also a useful deterrent. As with all natural remedies, re- application is necessary.Nothing spoils a summer eve-ning on the terrace more than the annoying whine, followed by the inevitable bite, of mos-quitoes. But several of the commercial

products contain chemicals that can cause unpleasant side effects, some such as DEET are believed to cause neurological damage. Meanwhile some of the most effective herbal remedies are citronella (Cymbopogon nardus), lavender (Lavandula spp) and eucalyptus (Euca-lyptus citriodora).

Sue Rodgers looks at how to deal with pests the natural way

Pest control

ANTSY: How to deal with these creepy crawlies

A body spray can be made mixing together 100ml of lavender water with 20 drops of eucalyptus es-sential oil and 15 drops of citronella oil. Always spray a test patch first to ensure you don’t react to the spray. Shake first to mix the lav-ender water and oils, then re-apply every couple of hours. The spray will keep for up to six months and the same combination of oils can be used in an oil burn-er to keep mosquitoes away from your evening terrace enjoyment.Living in the campo, flies are also a nuisance and while there are natural rem-edies to keep flies away - such as basil, lavender and rosemary - I have found few to be truly effective. But another solution is to attract the flies away from the house or terrace, with a sweet irresistible concoc-tion. Heat 400ml of milk, add 110g of raw sugar (this is not brown sugar, and will have to be bought from a health food shop or online) and 60g of white pepper and simmer for 10 minutes. Pour into bowls and place around the house or pa-tio, flies will flock to the sticky mixture and drown!

Check out www.selfsuf-ficiency4u.com for more natural remedies

A DESTRUCTIVE breed of Spanish slugs has invaded UK gardens.The recent heavy rains and warm spells across Britain have attracted the Arion Flagellus which poses a se-vere threat to native wildlife.The massive invaders can reach a size of more than 10 centimetres long and pro-duce hundreds more eggs than a typical British slug.With such a substantial dis-parity in fertility rates, Brit-ish slugs stand little chance against their Spanish com-petitors.And indeed, the olive green Spanish invaders have been mating with British slugs to create a highly powerful hy-

Foreign invasionSpanish slugs threaten to wipe out native British slugs

brid that is threatening to overrun the UK.But slug expert Les Noble from Aberdeen University believes authorities are not taking the problem serious-ly enough.“The invasive species is carrying diseases and para-sites that are going to wipe out our native slugs, driv-ing them to extinction,” he warned.

HE KNOWS HIS ONIONS!

Midsummer gardenPeter Langdale from Garden La Palma offers his top tips for the month of August

AS the summer continues we must take care not to neglect our watering.Making sure the irrigation system is in perfect condition is the most important thing in midsummer - especially the lawn irrigation system as you have to water it daily. And always remember the evening or at dawn are the best times.We must also continue to monitor the occurrence of pests and diseases almost every day in summer as now is the time they are most likely to appear. And if you have a pond now is also the best time to enjoy the many aquatic plants that thrive in the summer.When it comes to planting, August is when you should sow turnips, radishes, carrots, borage, canons and move the chard and cauliflower seedlings sown in July, and the leeks and sprouts sown in the nursery in June.

SLUGGERS: Spanish garden thugs are claiming foreign territory


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KARA

My name is Kara, I am a Husky X I am about 6 mths old and weigh around

13 kilos. I was found abandoned with my sibling in the campo in a very poor condition, starving, and scared, luckily I was rescued and taken to FAMA, and

nursed back to health.

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49www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012COLUMNS

41

Disgruntled of Andalucia (formerly of Royal Tunbridge

Wells) Follow me on Twitter @Mad_Dog_Column

HOW did it come to this? Bruised, battered and face down

in a filthy Spanish alley. Above, a blazing sun dries a million bras and boxer-shorts all hanging loosely from tenement balconies. Had I been mugged, bummed or robbed of a kidney? No, it was much worse! I’d taken fashion advice from a female, and now my dignity lay in tat-ters. Face it; there are certain things that you have to be a woman to appreci-ate: 50 Shades of Grey, Lambrini, Michael Buble, kittens, and the appeal of goddam flip-flops!So, when the missus sug-gested we go to the city as ‘flip-flop buddies’, I had to put my foot down. “Indie-kids don’t wear flip-flops,” I uttered defiantly. “But you’re 32,” she re-plied. “Hardly a KID.” “Age is just a number,” I barked back. “Look at Iggy Pop,

he’s 105, but STILL rock ‘n’ roll.”She wasn’t listening. As far as she was concerned we were visiting the city as matching khaki, shades, and flip-flop wearers; a couple of consum-erist cretins plucked straight from a GAP commercial.As I slipped on a pair of Quick-silver foot-thongs, I felt like a sell-out. ‘You’re rock ‘n’ roll’ I told myself, into bars not foot spas, Alice in Chains not ankle chains! Plus, the only straight men I knew to wear flip-flops were beach bums and Geography teachers.In the car, I sulked and muttered things like “I bet Hemingway never wore flip-flops.”It was futile; she just cranked up the volume on R.E.M’s Shiny Happy People. We parked up and I instinctively scanned the pavements for potential hazards. All it would take is one broken bottle and it’s bye, bye Sun-day football!Fortunately, the first hour passed without major inci-dent. In fact, like a new verruca, this footloose malarkey was growing on me.

S p r i n g -h e e l e d and liberat-ed, I bounced my way across hidden plazas and medieval court-yards. With air rushing up my ankles, the shackles were off and I felt free-as-a-bird.It’s rumoured that sex-mad citizens of ancient Rome found flip-flops especially useful. They are said to have had nails imbedded on the soles that spelt out the words ‘Follow Me’. But be warned, if you try this today you’re more likely to earn a denuncia than a grope in a Botanical garden!Anyway, as I toyed with the idea of toe-rings and yoga, I was brought crashing back down to earth. Lost in the moment, I some-how failed to notice a 12ft wooden plank in the road right outside a soup kitchen. Smackkkk!Technically, I’d stubbed my toe; but screw technically, it felt like my foot was giving birth. And yet, as I lay there whimpering, not one finger-less glove came to my aid. Half-a-dozen itinerant eyewit-nesses and nobody moved a muscle! I was spitting feath-

ers. “What

are you gawping at?”

I bawled: “Haven’t you got homes to go

to?”I wouldn’t mind, but I’m al-ways getting guilt-tripped by homeless charities. You know those TV ads that show Tess’s house getting repossessed, or little Steve, getting thrashed with a dog-lead? One even had CGI and music by Radiohead, how many beef-stews could that have bought?Still, at least they weren’t laughing.In Britain, beggars have SmartPhones these days and you can bet a bottle of Buck-fast they’d be recording this.Yep, while you’re off to ca-sualty, they’re hot-footing it down to the nearest internet café to share your misery with millions. Imagine that, returning home to find you’re a YouTube sen-sation - that bare-footed, berk from the ‘Trip-Flops’ video. As for the moral of this tale?How about tramps are self-centred, toenails are point-less, chicks are pushy, and 32 is NEVER too old for ‘Indie-kid’ clothing.

AN Y O N E who has read even the early

chapters of Empire Build-ing for Dummies will be acutely aware that the first thing to achieve is the creation of a geographically extensive group of states and peoples united and ruled either by a monarch or an oligarchy.Common regulation across each of the unequal and unrelated states is essential so that everyone knows what they are and what they not al-lowed to do.The Romans knew this; the Otto-mans knew this; the Russians knew this; and so did every other empire builder since the year dot.History suggests that empire build-ing is not a perfect science and lon-gevity is not guaranteed but, whatev-er example one chooses, controlling one’s empire is impossible unless the vital step of collective regulation has been accepted (or imposed).Once you’ve got all your dominions obeying the rules you can start fid-

Olympic dreams

dling with the tricky bits like na-tional identity, temperament and characteristics and you can attempt to subjugate any that you don’t es-pecially like.Not easy, I know, but essential if harmonisation across the empire is the objective. Get this right and you can do any-thing: change languages, change traditions, you can even change the currency. Given this truism, it is a pity that the dummies who are attempting to build the European Empire didn’t get past the early chapters – maybe their lips got tired.The fact that Europe’s masters im-

posed a new currency before a system of common regula-tion had been accepted un-derpins the current and en-during weakness of the Euro.Each of the nation states in the Community carried on doing what it had always done without regard for the consequences and now our oligarchy (we don’t have an emperor, yet) is desperately trying to sort out the mess.

With hindsight, Europe’s oligarchs

are trying to create an empire

by stealth

With the wonderful clarity of hindsight, Europe’s oligarchs are trying to create an empire by stealth.Foreign policy, defence, civil law, are all moving towards central control with the aim of creating a new federation of interdependent states.It follows that sorting out the current dog’s dinner that is Europe, will require each member of the Community to surrender its law-making powers to an unelected oli-garchy.Never mind the disparate na-tures of the member states, the unique characteristics that define each of them. The fact that all of these de-mocracies will be subjected to social and fiscal regulation imposed by an external and unelected oligarchy makes complete federation unpalat-able.Domination of the oligarchy by the only member that has any financial credibility makes it doubly so.

AN ODE FOR MAD DOG FANS: Quit your grieving – cos the Mad Dog ain’t leaving. He just got afraid, when his workload got raised. But a week of deep thought, and moral support – means its business as usual, so cancel that funeral!

The Mad Dog (finally…)flips-out Thoughts

of the fortnight• Give breakfast a cin-

ematic feel by playing ‘Boiled Egg Zulu.’ Make a mixture of brown and white bread soldiers and pretend your egg cup is Fort KwaMondi. Add pepper for gun-powder and ketchup for realistic blood spat-ter! And, when you get bored of this game add an even bigger dollop of ketchup and pretend the brown soldiers have hacked Zimbabwean farmers to pieces. Bon appetite!

• When Michael J Fox’s time-machine took him to 2015 in Back to the Future 2 how come his older-self didn’t have Parkinson’s?

• Why can’t the strays near my wheelie bins be more like Top Cat? I mean, it’s no wonder they’re homeless. How hard is it to pick up a second hand waistcoat and a few Brooklyn key-words? Nope, if you ask me, they CHOOSE to live that lifestyle.

Wicked whisperWhich filthy-rich foot-baller, who returned to EPL in 2010 after a spell in La Liga, left his Porsche at a Span-ish train station for five MONTHS? When asked why, he said he’d forgotten he owned one? And the galling thing is he only plays for Stoke!

DETAILS of the opening ceremony for the London Olympic Games have been revealed to an astonished

nation.The main arena will be converted into a green and pleasant landscape that will illustrate the many and var-ied aspects of life in the modern Dis-United Kingdom.Never mind the scenes of bucolic serenity, I will be looking for: illegal traveller sites complete with wrecked cars and snot-nosed children; the ubiquitous fly-tipped piles of rubbish; a march by striking bus and tube driv-ers in support of an Olympic-sized bonus; a parade of members from both Houses of Parliament, each car-rying a placard listing their personal expenses scams; thousands of gar-bage bins in an array of sizes and co-lours, none of which will be removed until the second week of the Games; and busloads of illegal immigrants all smiling and waving their benefit cheques. There should also be a white-coated

Cartsand

horses

contingent of NHS doctors each of whom has a number printed in large type on their backs.Groups of doctors should be choreo-graphed to join together revealing individual pension funds that ex-ceed anything in the private sector.

While all this is going on, a team of metal thieves should be stripping out the wiring from the stadium it-self.Let’s hope they don’t forget to take Anish Kapoor’s obscene steel sculp-ture while they are at it.

GLORIOUS: Olympic arena represents the Dis-United Kingdom


51www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012 FOOD & DRINK with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com 51

EXPERTS are warning tourists hoping to enjoy tra-ditional Spanish food this summer they may have to watch their waistlines.Indulging excessively in tapas and Spanish draught beer (canas) can be harm-ful to health as they are of-ten lacking nutrition, have a high calorie content and place a heavy burden on di-gestion.Just one traditional cana of less than half a pint of beer can contain up to 80 calo-ries.And UK holidaymakers may not have much luck weight-wise elsewhere in Europe either.According to research car-ried out by Thomas Cook, a 10-day break in Cyprus or Portugal is also likely to leave you piling on the pounds.A holiday in Ireland or Ger-many, on the other hand, is more likely to leave you trimmer.

Ca-tapas-trophe!With 80 calories per glass of beer and tapas soaked in oil, health experts warn tourists to think before they tuck in

To combat potential holiday weight, health experts rec-ommend that holidaymak-ers move more, drink more water and eat more protein-

THE chance for alfresco dining may be greater here than in Britain but that is all the more reason certain precautions should be taken when it comes to good garden etiquette.According to the Middle Class Handbook, your garden fur-niture reflects your social status and the classic white plastic chairs are a definite no-no.“Alfresco dining is about beauty, nature, lightness of touch. These are the opposite,” the guide explains.Oiled hardwood, powdered aluminium, and ornate cast-iron dining sets are on the other hand perfectly acceptable. “Doily-like, they conjure up cream teas and scented herb gardens, chilled wine and English roses.”The guide, which also writes off chairs with cup holders as complete mood killers, can be viewed at www.middle-classhandbook.co.uk

A SPANISH fruit and vegetable exporter has formed an alli-ance with a food de-velopment company in a bid to cultivate blueberries as an alternative to toma-toes.The joint project be-tween Gruventa and IDEARGO hopes to make the sector more profitable.“It’s born from both companies’ concern to enhance innova-tion and agricul-tural development, to allow farmers to receive the higher added value in their rents,” said Fermin Sanchez Navarro, Gruventa director.

rich foods such as seafood.According to nutritionist Ruben Bravo ‘in the sum-mer we eat less but un-healthily’.

FATTY: Spanish holidays could cost your health

DECORUM: Keeping outdoor dining classy

Turning tomatoesintoblueberries

GOOD GARDEN ETIQUETTE

AN exhibition showcasing the tools that chef Ferran Adria and his colleagues used to create the ‘new Spanish cuisine’ movement is opening in Australia.

The cutlery, crockery and other utensils used by his Spanish restaurant elBulli, as well as those used by Andoni Luis Aduriz will be displayed.

Ferran goes down under

52 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 FOOD & DRINK

I SPENT half of my meal trying to work out which footballer was sitting at the table behind me.

And the other half being sur-prised at actually how good the food was.Yes, Polo House, in Marbella has become rather like Lon-don’s iconic restaurant The Ivy.The place to be seen on the Costa del Sol, where most nights of the week in sum-mer you are likely to see a footballer, pop star or TV ce-lebrity.The last month alone has seen Glenn Hoddle, Ashley Cole and Joe Cole popping in to dine.... and Peter Crouch has apparently made it ‘al-most his second home’.Then there is the TOWIE crew, who popped champagne corks and paraded off their fake tans with plunging neck-lines and Estuary accents.But, you are just as likely to see Alan Sugar or Mark Thatcher, who both have homes nearby, and Marbel-la’s mayor Angeles Munoz has become a regular.Oh and then there is Status Quo’s Francis Rossi... who was a regular, at least until he had a blazing row with his girlfriend there last year.It is perhaps no surprise the place is so celebrity friendly, it being run by the dashing, and somewhat mischeivous, former cavalry officer James Hewitt, he of Lady Diana fame.A splendid raconteur, he is the life and soul of the place and very much in existence late at nights at weekends or over Sunday lunch.“I really felt Marbella had the potential for this sort of place when I moved here,”

Pukka tuckerPolo House is not just about celebrity spotting... Jon Clarke discovers that the food is surprisingly good too

he explains. “I have eaten in so many places around the world and know a bit about wine and food. “Quite frankly, there was f*** all else I could do. I don’t real-ly work here either,” he quips. “I just hang about, swan in and out. To be fair I have not really worked in my life before.”The really big surprise though, is the quality of the food.Dining in the recently renno-vated restaurant - which now has a new, glamourous dining terrace and a lighter, more ac-cessible feel – was actually a pleasure.There is entertainment every night, but I was most enjoy-

ing the assured and confident cooking of Danny Lewis, a true cockney, who trained under Marco Pierre White for five years, before honing his skills at the Jumeirah Hotel in Dubai.He doubles as the main buyer for the Metro Group, which also owns restau-rants, including Jacks, Alberts and Mum-taz, and he certainly knows how to source good ingredients.

His sea bass cooked in a salt crust was absolutely spec-tacular as were his starter of scallops with artichoke puree and Iberian ham and pan fried foie gras with brioche with Sevilla orange marma-

lade and ha-zlenuts.The steamed a s p a r r a g u s with Hollan-daise and p o a c h e d egg was also lovely.Other mains that looked good were the Chuleton,

a Spanish-style of rib-eye, which comes with stuffed bone marrow, or Osso Buco, as well as fresh crab and wild herb linguine and black cod in miso.Our pudding Polo House mess, a take on Eton mess, was amazingly good.As joint owner Ram Nandk-ishore explains: ‘A successful restaurant in Marbella must have a sense of fun,’ and he should know, having opened no less than 10 establish-ments in the town, including Mumtaz and Polo House.“People don’t want to go to a boring place that takes itself too seriously... people come down here to have fun and to be amused. They want places with a sense of humour.”Nobody can accuse Polo House of not having that.

THE PLACE TO BE SEEN: Marbella’s Polo House

SCHMOOZING: Hewitt with TOWIE babe Lauren Goodger

I enjoyed the assured and

confident cooking of head chef Danny Lewis

Polo House MarbellaBulevard Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe952 900 360 - www.polohousemarbella.com

52


54 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012 FOOD & DRINK 54

LIVING in Andalucia certainly opens up a tasty range of sea-food options, and

the good news is that the health benefits of eating it are well proven.Studies show that includ-ing one portion of seafood in your weekly diet can re-duce the chances of hav-ing a heart attack by half.And while oily fish like salmon and cod is known for its high content of ome-ga-3, seafood options such as prawns, crabs, squid and octopus also contain high levels of this essential fatty acid which is key to a healthy heart.When consumed in sea-food, omega-3 has also been shown to help reduce the risk of dementia and memory problems late in life.Moreover omega-3 is not the only benefit – seafood also contains many other important vitamins and minerals.And while seafood does contain cholesterol, it is unlikely to affect your blood cholesterol level because it is low in saturated fats. Discover more about shellfish here with the Ol-ive Press’ easy reference guide, which includes the Spanish words to help you choose what to go for…

Keeping the heart healthy with seafood

Shrimps (camarones), crayfish (langostos) and prawns (gambas)Healthy because…they are high in B12 and selenium. Many Britons are lacking in B12, which can only be found naturally in animal-based foods. Selenium is important for the immune system and thyroid.Avoid if…you start itching. You might be having an allergic reaction to the tropomyosin protein, which can lead to full throat swelling and even death.

Oysters (ostras)Healthy because…they are high in zinc, which is important for sexual function, and vitamins A, C and B12 which pro-mote energy. Their high content of tyrosine, an amino acid, also helps improve the mood and regulate stress.Avoid if…you have had an allergic reaction be-fore. Also, be wary of un-farmed oysters as they can contain high levels of poisonous mercury.

Healthy because…it con-tains high levels of B2, which can help fight mi-graines, bone-strengthen-ing phosphorus and also minerals zinc and copper. Copper is vital for absorb-ing iron. Avoid if…you are sensitive to other seafood, or if you suspect it is not completely fresh. Fried and battered squid is also very high in fat.

Mussels (mejillones)Healthy because… they have high levels of iodine which is good for a healthy thyroid, along with folic acid and B12. Mussels are also the shellfish with the highest levels of ome-ga-3.Avoid if…you are pregnant. Although they are officially safe, there is always a risk toxins will remain.

Squid (calamares)

55www.theolivepress.es the olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012, 2012FOOD & DRINK 55

Lobster (langosta)Healthy because…it is lean, and contains lots of vitamin E – which is good for the skin – plus vitamin B.Avoid if…you are trying to lose weight. Traditional lob-ster dishes such as Thermi-dor contain cognac, cream and cheese and therefore have extremely high calorie contents.

Octopus (pulpo)Healthy because…it con-tains iron, potassium, selenium and lots of B vi-tamins. It can also have a calming effect on the ner-vous system, and is high in taurine, an amino acid which can help prevent heart disease.Avoid if…you are a child. Seafood should be avoid-ed by the under-ones, and after that children should only eat it cooked.

Crab (cangrejo)Healthy because…it is high in protein but very low in cal-ories and contains high lev-els of and omega-3. It also contains the trace mineral selenium which is a power-ful antioxidant.Avoid if…you suffer from gout or kidney stones. Crab contains a high amount of purines which make symp-toms worse.

Scallops (vieiras)Healthy because…they are low in calories and contain practically no saturated fat. They are a great source of vitamin B plus minerals magnesium and potassium.Avoid if…you are sensitive to shellfish. Gout and kidney stones sufferers should also avoid them because of their high purines lev-els.

56 www.theolivepress.esthe olive press - July 26 - August 08, 2012the olive press

Onwards and upwards in 2012 with 186,000 papers (120,000 digital) and around 150,000 visits to the

website each month… The Olive Press just keeps growing!

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Telephone: 951 16 60 60 July 26 - August 08 , 2012 www.theolivepress.es

No part of this publication may be used or reproduced without the explicit permission of the publisher. While efforts are made to ensure the authenticity of advertisements and articles appearing in The Olive Press, the publisher does not accept any responsibility for claims made, nor do contributors’ opinions necessarily represent his own. Copyright Luke Stewart Media S.L 2012

FIN

AL W

OR

DS

MAN City star Mario Balotelli has set a re-cord bar bill at Linek-ar’s Bar.Italy striker Ballotelli, 21, ‘spent thousands’ on a night out for 20 guests at the club’s new Ibiza venue.Bar owner, and broth-er of Gary Lineker t w e e t e d : “ W i c k e d night. His bill was the biggest anyone has ever had in 25 years in any Linekers.”The only hiccup, he al-legedly told the owner he had never heard of his famous brother, former England strik-er and captain Gary.Other visitors to the new venue included Andy Carroll, Danny Welbeck, Joe Hart and Michael Carrick.

RAFAL Nadal has pulled out of the London Olympics due to injury.The world number three also pulled out of a charity match in Madrid on July 4 due to a tendon issue in his left knee.“I am not in condition to compete. It was not meant to be,” he said, adding that it was one of the saddest moments of his career.Nadal, 26, won the men’s singles at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and had been set to bear the flag for Team Spain at this week’s opening ceremony.

UP to 400,000 British ex-pats worldwide are flocking back to London this week for the 2012 Olympics.Nearly 385,000 of the es-timated 5.5 million British expats living abroad will return home in the coming

Olympics exodus

Mass departure of British expats heading home for the London Olympics

By Rund Abdelfatah

weeks, 275,000 of whom have tickets to the London Games. The highest number of re-turning expats – around 200,000 people – are said

to be coming from Spain. A recent survey reported 21 per cent of British expats in Spain are returning home for the Olympics, compared to just six per cent of those living in the US and three per cent in Canada.The explanation for this mass homecoming is a com-bination of patriotic zeal and general excitement.

Home“Britain is at the centre of the world stage. While there are many things that expats prefer about living over-seas, many identify strongly with their home country,” explains Richard Musty, director of Lloyds bank’s ex-patriate section.The bank undertook a sur-vey of over 1000 British expats in ten popular loca-tions.

White flag for Rafa

SAD: Rafa will not make

Olympics





Big spending Balotelli

ENGLAND striker Alex Oxlade-Chamber-lain has been spotted dining in Puerto Ba-nus.The talented 18-year-old (left, middle) ate at La Sala before heading for sister nightclub Aqwa Mist next door.The star, who impressed during the recent Euros tournament, ordered bottles of vodka at a private VIP table.

Vodka shots for Alex

SPANISH sports fans have expressed their horror at the Olympic kit for the Lon-don Games.Cyclist Angel Rodriguez posted pictures of the kit – featuring a polo shirt, tie, shoes and a backpack on Twitter - sparking disgust from fans.Russian company Bosco, which designed it, claimed it was created after ‘study-ing Spanish folklore’. But one unhappy fan said: “What kind of Spanish folk-lore have they studied? I feel ashamed.”

‘Folklore’ kit an embarrassment for Spain

TACKY: Bad fashion

THE Team GB football squad has spent a week in Spain to prepare themselves in their kick-off quest for Olym-pic gold.Captain Ryan Giggs was joined by stars including Mi-cah Richards, Tom Cleberley and Kyle Walker, at the popular golfing resort, La Cala, near Malaga.The hot training conditions did not pay off however as Stuart Pearce saw his team lose 2-0 to Brazil in a friendly match last Friday back in the UK.

SUNSHINE TRAINING

Strike nowWORKERS at Marbella’s Costa del Sol hospital have begun strikes over pay cuts announced by the Junta.

Baby boonEating avocados with olive oil can increase fertility by three times, according to Harvard University research presented to Malaga’s agricultural group Asaja this week.

New tailsThe Alhambra’s Court of Lions is to be officially reopened to the public after a decade-long restoration costing €2.2 million.

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