� Protect your balcony from dust, wind, noise and rain

� Create an all year round usable terrace

� Frameless glazing system

� Undisturbed views

� Specialist in manufacturing glass curtains

� 20 years experience in glazing industry

� Full public liability insurance

� Trade and commercial enquiries welcome

References available upon request

From quotation to installation you

can be sure of a first class product and

service from Elite Glass Curtains

e el i t Glass Curtains SL

For your free no obligation quotation call now onPHONE - 952 830 503 MOBILE - 630 625 085E-MAIL - info@eliteglasscurtains.com WEB - www.eliteglasscurtains.comELITE GLASS CURTAINS S.L., POLIGONO ELVIRIA 26, ELVIRIA 29600

Open

We will beat any likefor like quotation

SPECIALIST MANUFACTURERS AND INSTALLERS OF GLASS CURTAINS

Closed

After

Elviria

Before

costa culture

8 Cork Screwed?by Mike Wilkinson

costa getaways

16 Hollywood IconsImpeccable Peck - Gregory Peckby Harvey Mann

18 ‘Change A Life’ Charity Ball 2008

24 Staying positive in a recession

costa companies

26 Local Business Spotlight

costa lifestyle

38 Helen JohnsonMotivated for exercise?

40 Mens StuffSteps to take when you plateau...

42 What Men Want

43 What Women Want

44 Beauty TipsBeauty mythsuncovered...

46 Health article Taking paracetamolregularly triples riskof asthma...

48 Give us a smile...

costa homes

56 InteriorsWe have a lot to learnfrom the Spanish

60 The House DoctorWhat Happened OnBlack Sunday, and howdoes that affect us.

62 Obtaining a mortgage inSpain

64 Liquid Goldby Simon Hill

costa stuff

68 Jonathan Livingston Seagull

by Erny Harrison

70 Costa Cuisine

72 Spiritual Thought

74 Bytes & Pieces

76 Showbiz Whispers /

Movie Review

78 Strange But True & Challenge

co

nte

nts

issue

42Cover story

8

Cover story

38

64

56

Cover story

Cover story

FFoorr IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn oonn ddiissttrriibbuuttiioonn ppooiinnttss,,

ssaalleess oorr aannyy ootthheerr eennqquuiirriieess ccaallll

995522 449922 225500**,, 660000 771133 002288 oorr

eemmaaiill:: iinnffoo@@ccoossttaalliiffeemmaaggaazziinnee..ccoomm

oorr vviissiitt oouurr wweebbssiittee

wwwwww..ccoossttaalliiffeemmaaggaazziinnee..ccoomm**nneeww ccoonnttaacctt nnuummbbeerr

to issue 42 of Costa Life Magazine and I have just had to dig out my socks and shoes for the first

time in 9 months! We have had some torrential rain as I am writing but it is needed and I have

to say it is nice to see it cool down after such a hot and humid summer. I know that in a couple

of weeks I will be wishing for summer again but for now I have to admit I welcome a bit of rain to

cool things down.

Christmas is just around the corner and our next issue will be our double Nov/Dec Christmas

issue which will be out at the beginning of November.

The economic climate over the last couple of months has been something to behold with

comparisons being made to the great crash of 1929 and nobody is certain what the next few

months will bring so all I can say is that if you are in business here then keep your head down

and keep working and it will pass. All economic trends work in cycles and there are always ups

and downs so we have to keep positive and keep going. I try to avoid the t.v. news and I never

buy daily newspapers because at the end of the day bad news sells so I don’t need to make

myself feel worse by soaking up what the media has to say by way of continuous bad news.

Another Change a Life ball came and went in September. We had a great time at the Tamisa Golf

Hotel with 170 guests attending. We raised just under 3000 euros which in this climate is not

bad at all. All attended had a fantastic night of entertainment and the feed back was really

positive. Thanks to everybody who attended and gave to the charities involved. And to cap it all

on the same day 13th September not only did I have some of my family here which was a really

nice treat Liverpool beat Manchester United 2-1 in the league, now I ask you what more could

you ask for?!! As usual we have dedicated pages for the photographs from the ball which means

there is no Costa Getaways this month but we will be back next month with a look at

Torremolinos.

Harvey Mann continues his Hollywood Icons features with Gregory Peck which is a really

interesting read and don’t forget if you would like to read the magazine before it is out on the

streets visit www.costalifemagazine.com and send us an email and we will add you to the email

list to notify you of when it is online, which is normally about a week before it goes out. That’s it

from me have a great October and see you for the Christmas issue!!!

Editor

Sharon Holdsworth

Consulting Editor

Harvey Mann

Design and Production

David Philliskirk

Advertising Sales

Ronan Holdsworth

IT Advisor

Dave Howard of Alphashare

Web Master

Mike Wilkinson

ContributorsLinda ChristieErny Harrison

Simon HillHelen JohnsonAnnika JonssonHarvey Mann

Jan MorleyNumero Uno Estates

Cruella ParsonsAnnette RiggallRussell VaughnMike Wilkinson

Company Director

Ronan Holdsworth

Partner

Barrie Shearman

Images courtesy of

Costa del Sol Tourist Board

PR Shots

Cover photo by kind permission of

Sara Gómez Dubois

http://black--pearl.deviantart.com/

Deposito Legal MA-0054-2004

Produced by and part of the

HOLDSWORTH SHEARMANMEDIAGROUP

Reproduction of this magazine in whole orpart without the written permission of thepublishers is strictly prohibited. The viewsexpressed by contributors and advertisersare not necessarily those of the publishers.Although every care is taken to ensure the

accuracy of the information and theadvertisements contained within this

magazine, the publishers can accept noliability.

952 492 250

info@costalifemagazine.com

Hello and welcome...

MACP-483 Alhaurin el Grande 406,200EurosBuilt Area: 109,50m2, Land Area: 3,400m2, Bedrooms: 3, 1en-suit and an office, Bathrooms: 2A beautiful property on a lovely flat plot with an orchard of variousfruit trees. The house is very spacious and well maintained, hasair-condone and heating trout. Out side there is a lovely pool andbar area which is extremely private. The location of this villa isfantastic walking distance to a little village. Double Garage 27,50m2, wooden house and work shed and very private pool area.A great private property in a fantastic area.

MACP- 481 Coin 1,200,000EurosBuilt Area: 340m2, casita & storage 120m2, Land Area: 6000m2Bedrooms: 7, 5 in the main house, one with a grand open fire, Bathrooms: 5, 3 in the mainhouse, a Casita of 90m2, Stable's 90m2 and a 90m2 grill house, Finca La Toronja: a beautifulunique Finca, located on the Mijas Road in the ever more popular village of Coin. The perfect place for the one looking for something out of the ordinary!The land will shortly be urbanised as Coin is rapidly expanding its borders. This will increase thevalue considerably, and making it possible to split the property into 3 separate units. Separatestorage space, Barbecue Cabana, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Inside & Outside pool matureLandscapedGarden, Orange Grove & Fruit trees and a Carport for 3 cars.

MACP 474 Alhaurin el Grange 460,000EurosBuilt Area: 111m2, Land Area: 5000m2, Bedrooms: 2 inmain, plus an office or 3rd Bed, 2 bathrooms.The villa is new and just completed. Situated on a 5,000 squaremeter plot which supports fig and pomegranate trees. The plot issoutheast facing in the middle of an orange grove. Its location iscentral to the villages of Alhaurin el Grande, Coin and Cartamawith the City of Malaga being 20 minutes drive away. Marbella andthe coast are also only 20 minutes driving time. Access to a 15meter square sun roof is through large patio doors of the mainbedroom. This area gives wonderful views down the Guadalhorcevalley. The villa is tastefully decorated and boasts many extrasincluding an 8 x 4 swimming pool and ample parking, under floorheating through out, hot and cold air conditioning, electric terraceblind and a water softening system.

MAPC-475 ALHAURIN EL GRANDE 699,000 EurosBuild: 350, Plot: 800m2, Beds: 4, 3 in the main and 1 in the casita, could be 6, Baths: 5A great opportunity to purchase the only villa which is for sale on this new exciting urbanisation, which is in the countrybut walking distance to Alhaurin el Grande town. The villa is 3 years old very light and spacious with and althoughthere is 4 bedrooms and present there is the possibility of using the lovely converted attics or the full-size games roomfor more accommodation if desired. Separate self contained little house on one level with 40m2 beautiful studio.Thelocation of this property is fantastic; being next to the town and close to all amenities is a great bonus. Also being anew urbanization and having no others like this around the area, we feel that this is a sought after property. The townhall has great plans for this urbanization leaving plenty of areas for gardens with pretty landscaping, so theurbanization already today is delightful which will only improves as the months go on.

MAAP-420 ALHAURIN EL GRANDE LAST 3 REMAINING from 45,000 EurosNew Luxury studios apartments and offices for sale located in the best part of Alhaurin town next to all amenities. The studios/offices haveall been finished to a very high standard, with marble floors, solid oak doors, beautiful tiles in the kitchen and bathrooms. Some have smallcharming court yards with water features. Varied opportunities to use as small business centre, individual offices, or separate studioapartments.

mmaaggiinnee tthhiiss.. YYoouu aarree sseeaatteedd aatt tthhee ttaabbllee ooff aa rraatthheerr

sswwaannkkyy rreessttaauurraanntt -- oonnee ooff tthhoossee oonneess wwhheerree yyoouu ddoonn’’tt

nneeeedd ttoo ttaakkee yyoouurr ttrraayy bbaacckk -- wwiitthh ssoommeeoonnee yyoouu rreeaallllyy

ccaarree ffoorr.. IItt ccoouulldd bbee yyoouurr ssppoouussee,, lloovveerr,, ggaarrddeenneerr,, nneexxtt--

ddoooorr nneeiigghhbboouurr…… iitt ddooeessnn’’tt rreeaallllyy mmaatttteerr ttoo tthhee ssttoorryy…… aa

ssmmaallll bbooxx ooff kkiitttteennss iiff yyoouu lliikkee.. HHoowweevveerr,, iitt iiss aann

eexxttrraaoorrddiinnaarriillyy ssppeecciiaall ooccccaassiioonn ffoorr yyoouu bbootthh aanndd tthhee

rreessttaauurraanntt lliigghhttiinngg iiss ssuuiittaabbllyy ssoofftt aanndd rroommaannttiicc,, aass iiss tthhee

ppiippeedd eelleevvaattoorr mmuussiicc tthhaatt’’ss eeffffoorrttlleessssllyy ddrriiffttiinngg aaccrroossss yyoouurr

ttaabbllee ffrroomm sseeeemmiinnggllyy nnoowwhheerree.. BBeessiiddee yyoouu,, wwiitthh aa

rreeaassssuurriinngg ppoopp,, tthhee ffaarr--mmoorree--eexxppeennssiivvee--iinn--hheerree--tthhaann--iinn--tthhee--

ssuuppeerrmmaarrkkeett bboottttllee ooff wwiinnee tthhaatt yyoouu hhaadd eeaarrlliieerr oorrddeerreedd

rreelliinnqquuiisshheess iittss ccoorrkk ttoo tthhee iirroonnwwaarree bbrraannddiisshheedd bbyy tthhee

wwiinnee--wwaaiitteerr.. HHee ppoouurrss aa rruubbyy--rreedd ssppllaasshh ooff wwiinnee iinnttoo tthhee

ggllaassss bbeessiiddee yyoouu,, hhiiss eeyyeess ggeessttuurriinngg ffoorr yyoouurr aapppprroovvaall.. NNoott

kknnoowwiinngg ttoooo mmuucchh aabboouutt tthhee ffiinneerr ppooiinnttss ooff wwiinnee ttaassttiinngg,,

yyoouu ttaassttee iitt -- yyeepp.. iitt’’ss wwiinnee -- aanndd nnoodd yyoouurr aapppprreecciiaattiioonn ttoo

tthhee wwaaiitteerr wwhhoo tthheenn pprroocceeeeddss ttoo ttoopp uupp yyoouurr ggllaassss,, aanndd tthhaatt

ooff yyoouurr iinnssaanneellyy ggoorrggeeoouuss ddiinnnneerr gguueesstt.. RReeccooggnniissiinngg tthhaatt iitt

iiss aa ppaarrttiiccuullaarrllyy ssppeecciiaall ooccccaassiioonn ffoorr yyoouu bbootthh,, tthhee wwaaiitteerr

tthheenn ooffffeerrss yyoouu tthhee ccoorrkk ffrroomm tthhee wwiinnee bboottttllee aass aa ssmmaallll

mmeemmeennttoo ooff yyoouurr vviissiitt ttoo tthhiiss ffiinnee eeaattiinngg eessttaabblliisshhmmeenntt..

‘‘‘‘HHooww rroommaannttiicc,,’’’’ yyoouu tthhiinnkk ttoo yyoouurrsseellff aass yyoouu mmoovvee ttoo

aacccceepptt tthhee ccoorrkk.. SSuuddddeennllyy,, tthheerree’’ss aa lloouudd ssccrreeeecchhiinngg nnooiissee

aass aa ddiiaammoonndd ssttyylluuss sskkaatteess aaccrroossss aa ggrroooovveedd vviinnyyll ddiisscc

aanndd tthhee bbaacckkggrroouunndd mmuussiicc hhaallttss wwiitthh aann aabbrruupptt

aawwaarreenneessss.. IInn uunneexxppeecctteedd ssiilleennccee,, yyoouu ggaazzee

ddoowwnn aatt yyoouurr rroommaannttiicc rreessttaauurraanntt ssoouuvveenniirr.. IInn

yyoouurr ffiinnggeerrttiippss yyoouu aarree ggeennttllyy hhoollddiinngg aa

lluummpp ooff bbrriigghhtt yyeellllooww ppllaassttiicc,,

eemmbbllaazzoonneedd aallll oovveerr wwiitthh tthhee lleeggeenndd

‘‘‘‘WWhhoooohh WWhhoooohh CCOOUUGGHH!!’’’’

A cork this is not… a bottle-

stopper maybe, but never a

cork. There is a certain intrinsic

‘rightness’ about slowly drawing

the cork from a bottle of fine wine

that you just don’t get with a lump of

yellow ‘Mr Blobby’ plastic. Is this the result of so-called

progress in the wine industry? Where, oh where, is the

romance, the mystique, the subtlety? Is the term

‘uncorked’ destined to someday bear only a nostalgic,

symbolic meaning? Is cork screwed?

Spain is one of only seven countries in the world where the

Quercus suber tree grows: the others being Portugal,

Algeria, Morocco, Italy, Tunisia and France. In these seven

Mediterranean countries - in regions where woodlands and

meadows are constantly tormented by drought and forest

fires - this humble tree has evolved a way of protecting

II

Written By:

Mike Wilkinsonmike@costalifemagazine.com

itself, from both water-loss by evaporation and from fire damage, by

growing a thick, insulating bark around itself that we have all come to

know and love as cork. The Greeks and Phoenicians were probably the

first to use it to seal wines and other liquids in amphorae, the fat-bellied,

wide-mouthed pottery containers that are probably distant ancestors of

the Spanish tinaja. The sealant qualities of the bark has lead to the

donating trees being extremely well cared-for and maintained (known as

good ‘husbandry’) in return for its cork harvest. These trees scatter the

landscape of the dehusas, the mountainous meadowlands of Spain (and

also the montados of Portugal), where the inhabitants there understood

how to live in harmony with the land and how to nurture nature for the

benefit of both parties. In fact, they became so good at it that the rest of

nature moved into the dehusas as well, and subsequently, the area is

now known as the Alcornocales Natural Park (alcornocales being

Spanish for cork-oak trees - our beloved Quercus suber).

The Alcornocales Natural Park covers an area of over 13,000 square

miles in the heart of Andalucia, and is the largest cork-oak plantation in

the Iberian Peninsula, and one of the most important in the world. It

represents an outstanding example of the sustainable use of forests

whist still retaining a high conservation value. Even though the cork-oaks

in the park are stripped of their bark regularly, it is executed in an

exacting way that has evolved over centuries of understanding the

environment and which actually improves environmental conditions,

encouraging plants, insects, and especially animals and migratory birds,

many of them rare and endangered, like the Iberian lynx, the Iberian

Imperial Eagle, and the rare black stork.

So, how exactly do you get yourself a cork grove and the Biodiversity Zoo

that comes along with it? Well, first you need to plant a Quercus suber

or two. Then you do your good husbandry bit and look after them really

well for the next 25 years, when the first bark will be thick enough to

harvest. Only then can you strip the bark from your trees, which

unfortunately, is of no use to the bottle-stopper making people because

it’s not dense enough for use as a cork. You may be able to sell it

cheap for insulation or cork flooring or fishing floats, but basically

you’ve got to do your good husbandry bit for another nine years,

when the cork would have regenerated itself enough to be

harvested again… and sell that cheap too, because it’s still too

fragile. It’ll be another nine years before you get something you

can make a wine bottle cork from. Still, you should have a jolly

nice selection of flora and fauna in the garden by now.

After nearly half a century of

tending to your trees they are

finally about to become

commercially viable, and will be

for hundreds of years to come.

The oldest known cork oak, the

‘Whispering Tree’ in Portugal, is

estimated to be 250 years old

and is still abundant in cork

production. This is why most

cork groves are passed down

through generations with the

knowledge that this unique

forest product will eventually

deliver benefits to the family,

hence the adage: ‘‘Eucalyptus

trees are for us, pine trees for

our children, and cork trees for

our grandchildren.’’

The harvesting of the naturally thick bark of the cork oaks is the

economic mainstay of the dehesa inhabitants. It is a skilled job requiring

at least two years apprenticeship and is carried out using a special

curved axe, a machado, wielded with extraordinary precision to make the

first cuts before the cork is peeled off, rather like peeling a banana. The

dark orange-red stems of recently harvested trees are a familiar sight in

the area. Once stripped from the tree, donkeys are used to transport the

cork down the mountainside and, after being quality-graded, it is sold to

factories where the cork stoppers are literally punched out of the sheets

of raw material.

Although corks have been used to seal bottles for centuries, it does have

an Achilles heel which ruins around 5% of all bottles of wine plugged with

a cork - that of ‘cork taint’ - specifically a mould in cork that can develop

into a compound called Trichloroanisol (TCA for short) that can impart a

musty, dirty aroma and affect the flavour of the wine. Both sellers and

buyers of wine have put up with this problem for decades… which is

where our friend the ‘Mr Blobby’ cork enters stage right, along with his

partner in crime, the aluminium screw top. It was thought that between

them they could banish TCAs forever, bringing an end to the problem of

‘corked’ wine. But things aren’t always that simple.

You see, the thing about a bottle of wine is that it ages and matures over

time. The corks’ structure is infused with pure gaseous oxygen (from the

time when it was a tree, taking CO2 out of the atmosphere and emitting

O2 back). Once it’s a bottle stopper, over a period of time this oxygen

passes from the cork into the wine, enhancing its flavour and bouquet,

effectively maturing the wine. The aluminium screw top seals the bottle

tightly shut, preventing maturation, and the plastic stoppers that are

designed to ‘breathe’ let in air and other impurities from the outside

world that cause problems other than cork taint, such as excessive

oxidation, premature aging and reduction (excessive sulphide levels). If

the wine is for drinking immediately this isn’t an issue, but if it’s for laying

down in a cellar… well, it just won’t lie down.

Since discovering the issues associated with non-cork stoppers, the cork

trade, after thinking they were heading for a hiding from plastic factories

and bauxite mines, took steps to try and do something about cork taint.

After much research and investment, the cork now goes through a

number of processes that rids them of almost all the TCAs present,

hopefully consigning corked wine to the history books and ensuring the

cork trade in the dehesas continues to thrive and contribute to the

dehusas’ natural wildlife.

Cork is saved. We no longer have to make up stories to the effect that all

malodorous wine can somehow be traced back to French soil and as

such, should be referred to as corqué, or that a poor fisherman in

Portugal has discovered a cork with the

image of Christ distinctly visible within

its cell structure and people are

coming from all over the world to

taste this magical elixir. But it

also means that plans

to open a new

chain of ‘screw

topless’ bars

have been

shelved. I was

looking forward

to that one. Ah

well… that’s

put a cork in it.

costalife 9

10 costalife

>> WHERE TO GO & WHAT TO DO

WHERE TO GO & WHAT TO DO >>

costalife 11

12 costalife

>> WHERE TO GO & WHAT TO DO

Warm Irish WelcomeQuality foor served

from 9.30am to 7pmBig Breakfast Menu Served till 4pm

Chefs Specials served all day

Live Music Evenings Monday toSaturday from 10pm

Big Screen T.V. All Major Sporting Events Shown

Come on down andenjoy the Craic!

Find us beside main taxi rank,

La Cala de Mijas

952 494 877

WHERE TO GO & WHAT TO DO >>

costalife 13

LLaa CCoorrttiijjeerraa,, LLaa CCaallaa ddee MMiijjaass

FFoooodd DDaaiillyy 1100aamm –– 11ppmm aanndd 77ppmm –– 1100ppmm

33 CCoouurrssee SSuunnddaayy LLuunncchh 1111..5500 eeuurroo sseerrvveedd 11ppmm –– 77ppmm

SSkkyy TT..VV.. -- FFaammiilliieess WWeellccoommee –– LLaarrggee TTeerrrraaccee

WWeeddnneessddaayy nniigghhtt –– QQuuiizz NNiigghhtt

FFrriiddaayy nniigghhtt ––DDaarrttss

SSaattuurrddaayy nniigghhtt –– KKaarraaookkee

SSuusssseexx GGoollff SSoocciieettyy CCaallll 662277 004411 333355 ffoorr mmoorree iinnffoo

J B BurkesIrish Bar - Fuengirola

Warm friendly welcomeAll sky sports shown

Live music Thur, Fri, SatBar snacks - draught beers -

Guinness - Heineken - Murphys

Open 10 am till late 7 daysCalle Antonio Sodeno

near Dunnes Stores, Las Rampas

952 479 804

costalife 15

WHERE TO GO & WHAT TO DO >>

Internet Café and Bar

Breakfasts

Lunches

Snacks - Drinks

Finest Coffees

English Teas

Shakes

Daily specials

takeaway service

Office services include

Internet -WIFI - Fax

Photocopying

Open Mon - Fri 9am till 7.30 pm

Sat 10am - 2pm

Tel 952 850 052 fax 952 834 715

Marbella Business Centre

Just off N340 at KM 191 Avda de Las Cumbres

hhee ssttrroonngg wwiinnddss wwhhiippppeedd tthhee ssaanndd iinnttoo aa sswwiirrlliinngg mmaassss.. CCllaammppiinngg

mmyy hhaanndd oovveerr mmyy mmoouutthh,, II sshhuutt mmyy eeyyeess ttiigghhtt,, aanndd wwiitthh mmyy ffrreeee

hhaanndd II bbaannggeedd oonn tthhee ddoooorr ooff tthhee ccaarraavvaann.. II ttrriieedd aaggaaiinn ffoorr tthhee

sseeccoonndd ttiimmee,, tthhiiss ttiimmee mmuucchh hhaarrddeerr.. SSuuddddeennllyy tthhee ddoooorr sswwuunngg ooppeenn,, aanndd

HHoollllyywwoooodd IIccoonn GGrreeggoorryy PPeecckk ggrraabbbbeedd mmee bbyy tthhee llaappeellss aanndd ppuulllleedd mmee

iinnttoo hhiiss ppeerrssoonnaall mmoottoorr hhoommee.. ‘‘‘‘GGooddaammnneedd wwiinndd hhaass rruuiinneedd ffiillmmiinngg ffoorr

mmoosstt ooff tthhee mmoorrnniinngg,,’’’’ ssaaiidd PPeecckk aass hhee ssllaammmmeedd tthhee ddoooorr aaggaaiinnsstt tthhee

wwhhiissttlliinngg wwiinndd tthhaatt hhaadd ttuurrnneedd tthhee NNeeggeevv ddeesseerrtt iinnttoo aann uunnccoonnttrroollllaabbllee

ssaannddssttoorrmm..

Peck slumped back onto a single dishevelled bed. He was wearing blue

striped pyjamas and, with a bushy beard and moustache grown for his

part in the film, he looked even more untidy than his bed. ‘‘Sorry to greet

you like this: the sandstorm has stopped my dresser from being able to

get from his caravan to mine.’’

I had arrived by car after bumping along desert roads, and from an

elevated position I could see the film-set down in the valley. ‘‘Was it real

or a mirage?’’ As the car made its final approach down a steep slope the

storm started, and the last few miles to my destination had turned out to

be brilliant guess work by Shlomo, the film-set driver.

Why had I come to

Israel? And to the

notorious Negev

desert, that had been

the centre of so many

conflicts between

Israel and Egypt, and

was still littered with

the eerie remnants of

the bits and pieces of

military armaments

such as tanks,

armoured personal

carriers and Jeeps.

I had come to

photograph the big

man, Gregory Peck

(six feet three inches

in bare feet) star of so

many great films, and

so many rumours that he could be extremely difficult. However today,

maybe as I’m almost as tall as him, Peck greeted me warmly as he

grabbed my hand and pumped it enthusiastically, and then slapped me

on the back sending up a cloud of sand from my shoulders.

‘‘Do you play checkers, Harvey?’’ Peck enquired. My reply got that

familiar languid smile that had melted so many women’s hearts, and

showed off a perfect row of teeth, ‘‘Yes I do, but probably a lot worse than

you.’’ ‘‘Ha,’’ said Peck as he smilingly opened a box and pulled out a

draughtsboard and the black and white pieces. ‘‘With this wind it could

be the best of one of several thousand at least. Shall we play United

States versus Britain?’’ ‘‘Who will be black?’’ I said. Peck was enjoying

the gentle banter between us.

Sipping at a cup of steaming coffee, we talked about his childhood and

his journey into films. Born Eldred Gregory Peck in 1916 in La Jolla,

California, after his dad had emigrated from England, Peck’s parents

divorced when he was five and, being the only child, he was sent to live

with his grandmother. ‘‘I really never had a stable childhood, although my

grandmother was wonderful. One of the many memories that I have was

the regular weekly visits with her and my dog to the movies. I had to take

the dog with me as she followed me everywhere. It was when I was at the

University of California at Berkeley studying pre-med that those regular

visits to the movies in my childhood took a hold on me and I changed my

focus from medicine to acting.’’ In the spring of 1939, Peck skipped

graduation at Berkeley.

Stretching out his out his long legs, he said, ‘‘With

$160 dollars and a letter of introduction in my

pocket I jumped on a train to New York and

enrolled in the Neighbourhood Playhouse,

studying under the watchful eye of Michael

Chekhov. I then made my debut in a 1942 Emlyn

Williams stage play called Morning Star. My first

foray into the movies came in 1944, when I

appeared in the RKO movie Days of Glory.’’ Peck

paused to sip on his mug of coffee. He did not

have to wait too long for stardom: his next film,

also in 1944, was called Keys of the Kingdom for

which he was nominated for an Academy Award.

This role suited his natural qualities: Peck’s

character called for a tall rugged heroic male that

had an aura of decency.

Written by:

Harvey Mann

TTTT

Peck in Keys of the

However there were times

in the big man’s past and

since our meeting, that

Peck was very outspoken.

Certainly the director Elia

Kazan was deeply

disappointed by his very

poor performance in the

film Gentlemen's

Agreement in 1947, and

they never worked together again. William Wyler said, ‘‘I wouldn’t direct

Peck again for a million dollars,’’ after Peck walked off the set during The

Big Country in 1958. Two years after the film Peck was hospitalised with

a suspected heart attack. ‘‘Maybe it was the drinking and smoking too

much. Yes I did that quite a lot. I drank a lot when I was a young actor;

it’s the business I was in. The question we always ask ourselves about

the next movie is, ‘When and how much?’ There is always the doubt in

your mind that you may not get another film.’’ Later he was to say, ‘‘I’ve

had my ups and downs: there have been times when I wanted to quit,

times when I hit the bottle, and marital problems; I’ve touched most of

the bases.’’ Apart from the divorce from his first wife, the worst thing to

happen in his life was the suicide of his oldest son Jon in 1975 from a

gunshot wound.

The year is 1974, and our reason for being in the Negev desert is that

Peck is making a cowboy film called Billy Two Hats along with Desi Arnez

Jr, the son of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez. Gregory plays Arch Deans, and

Desi plays Billy Two Hats, a half breed; they’ve robbed a bank and are

being pursued by Sheriff Henry Gifford played by Jack Warden. There

was a lot of friendly banter on and off screen. ‘‘Why Israel to make a

cowboy film,’’ I ask Peck. He shrugged his shoulders and said, ‘‘Maybe

it’s because someone sees an investment into the economy, or maybe

they got 300 Indians for a lot cheaper than they would if it was made in

the US.’’ I looked quizzically at him. ‘‘Well,’’ he continued, ‘‘They’ve hired

300 soldiers from the Israeli army to play the Indians; they’ve all got

black hair and are dark skinned. The only trouble is that last Friday

evening, when the director finally got ready to shoot a scene using the

Indians, they’d left early to go to the synagogue. I can tell you he was not

at all pleased.’’

Finally the storm blew itself out and Peck was called to get dressed and

be on set in 30 minutes for rehearsal. ‘‘Do you still get excited when it

comes to making films?’’ I asked. ‘‘I suppose messing around with guns

and horse riding is okay, although I try not to spend too much time on

horseback. I had a back injury from college, which also kept me out of

the Second World War, and I broke my ankle in three places when I fell

off a horse filming Yellow Sky in 1948.

Peck’s career took a bit of a nosedive after his most famous film To Kill

a Mockingbird made in 1962, which was his favourite. ‘‘Maybe that film

was the top of the ladder. Once you get up there, there is only one way…

down.’’ He even directed two films: one called The Trial of the Catonsville

Nine in 1972 and The Dove just before Billy Two Hats in 1974. Gregory

Peck’s comeback was in the film The Omen in 1976 when he played

Robert Thorn, the US ambassador. He only got paid $250,000 which

was a huge wage cut for him, but he was guaranteed 10% of the film’s

box office take. The film and Peck did very well, as it grossed more than

$60 million.

‘‘Those early days in New York

were tough. I worked at Radio

City Music Hall as a tour guide

and became a catalogue model

for Montgomery Ward. That is

why I have campaigned for people

that are challenged in one way or

another, and maybe that’s why

the parts I get are nearly always a

good guy or courageous hero…

although I remember being so

scared and having to go to bed

with my grandmother after seeing

the film The Phantom of the

Opera when I was nine.’’

On June 16th 2003 Peck was

buried after a cardiac arrest.

Three thousand celebrities and

guests packed into the cathedral

and a wonderful eulogy was

delivered by actor Brock Peters

who played the accused black

rapist Tom Robinson, defended by

Atticus Finch played by Gregory

Peck, in the film To Kill a Mocking

Bird.

Gregory Peck had many film

successes. Once called the

hottest thing in town, Hollywood

called him, ‘‘The second Gary

Cooper.’’ ‘‘Actually I’m the first

Gregory Peck,’’ said Peck. And,

yes, judging by reports from

others in the film world, he could

be very difficult and would

sometimes voice his outspoken

opinions against film companies,

saying that some actors were

treated by directors and

producers as chattels.

In 1981, with my wife, I was

invited to the Hollywood Oscars in

the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion,

Los Angeles. It was wall to wall

with film stars and celebrities

and, in the distance across the

crowded auditorium, there was

Peck with his second wife

Veronique Passani. Suddenly our

eyes met, and Peck gave me a

gentle nod and that familiar slow

smile of recognition. Dressed in

black tie and a tuxedo he looked

as you would imagine Gregory

Peck to, as always impeccable.

e Kingdom Peck in Gentlemans Agreement

Peck in To Kill a Mocking Bird

Peck in Yellow Sky

SSeepptteemmbbeerr 1133tthh ssaaww tthhee 22000088 ‘‘‘‘CChhaannggee AA LLiiffee BBaallll’’’’ aatt tthhee TTaammiissaa GGoollff hhootteell aanndd aass qquuiicckk aass

iitt ccaammee aarroouunndd iitt wwaass ggoonnee!! AA ggrreeaatt nniigghhtt wwaass hhaadd bbyy aallll 117700 gguueessttss wwhhoo eennjjooyyeedd aann eevveenniinngg

ooff ggrreeaatt ffoooodd,, eenntteerrttaaiinnmmeenntt,, ffiirreewwoorrkkss aanndd ddaanncciinngg aanndd hheellppeedd ttoo rraaiissee jjuusstt uunnddeerr 33000000

eeuurrooss ffoorr tthhee ttwwoo cchhaarriittiieess CCuuddeeccaa aanndd AAggee CCaarree AAssssoocciiaattiioonn wwhhiicchh wwaass aa ggrreeaatt eeffffoorrtt iinn tthhee

ccuurrrreenntt cclliimmaattee.. TThhaannkkss ggoo ttoo eevveerryybbooddyy wwhhoo aatttteennddeedd aanndd aallssoo ttoo tthhoossee wwhhoo ccoonnttrriibbuutteedd ttoo

tthhee rraaffffllee aanndd ggaavvee pprriizzeess..

‘Change a Life’Charity Ball

2008

>>

IItt wwaass aa bbeeaauuttiiffuull eevveenniinngg aannddwwee wweerree wweellll ccaatteerreedd ffoorr bbyyJJoohhnn PPeeaacchh aanndd aallll tthhee ssttaaffff aatttthhee TTaammiissaa ggoollff aanndd oouurrtthhaannkkss ggoo oouutt ttoo tthheemm.. AAss yyoouuccaann sseeee tthhee ppiiccttuurreess oonncceeaaggaaiinn aarree ffaabbuulloouuss ttaakkeenn bbyyBBeerrnniiee BBeeeeccrroofftt ((667700332266220044))..TThhaannkkss aallssoo ttoo KKiimmbbeerrllyy HHiillll((666633777700114422)).. TThhee wweeaatthheerrwwaass ppeerrffeecctt aanndd tthhee sseettttiinnggoovveerrllooookkiinngg MMiijjaass ggoollff wwaassffaannttaassttiicc.. OOuurr wwoorrkk iiss ddoonnee ffoorraannootthheerr yyeeaarr bbuutt tthhee ttwwoocchhaarriittiieess wwoorrkk ggooeess oonn aanndd iiffyyoouu wwoouulldd lliikkee ttoo hheellpp tthheemm iinnaannyywwaayy hheerree aarree tthheeiirr ccoonnttaaccttddeettaaiillss.. AAggee CCaarree AAssssoocciiaattiioonnEEmmeerrggeennccyy tteelleepphhoonnee hhoott lliinnee669911 776611 008888CCuuddeeccaa ccaanncceerr ccaarree hhoossppiicceeTTeell 995522 556644 992222FFaaxx 995522 556644 992222EEmmaaiill ccuuddeeccaa@@ccuuddeeccaa..oorrgg

>>

OOnnccee aaggaaiinn tthhaannkkss ttoo

eevveerryybbooddyy iinnvvoollvveedd aanndd wwee

wwiillll sseeee yyoouu aallll nneexxtt yyeeaarr oonn

tthhee 55tthh SSeepptteemmbbeerr 22000099 ssoo

ggeett iitt iinn yyoouurr ddiiaarryy!! IItt wwiillll bbee

hheerree bbeeffoorree yyoouu kknnooww iitt..

>> costaSTUFF

ear. IItt’’ss ppaallppaabbllee dduurriinngg aa rreecceessssiioonn.. WWee ccaann aallll ffeeeell iitt iinn tthhee ppiitt ooff

oouurr ssttoommaacchhss.. YYoouu hhaavvee ttoo bbee rreeaalliissttiicc aanndd aacccceepptt tthhaatt tthheerree iiss aa

rreecceessssiioonn bbuutt aallssoo kkeeeepp ppoossiittiivvee dduurriinngg aa rreecceessssiioonn.. FFoorrttuunneess aarree

mmaaddee dduurriinngg hhaarrdd ttiimmeess bbyy tthhee rriigghhtt ppeeooppllee wwhhoo hhaavvee tthhee rriigghhtt

aattttiittuuddee aanndd sseeee ooppppoorrttuunniittyy iinn eevveerryy aaddvveerrssiittyy.. IInnvveessttoorrss aarree

pprroowwlliinngg aatt tthhee mmoommeenntt bbeeccaauussee tthheeyy kknnooww tthhaatt tthheerree aarree ddeeaallss oouutt

tthheerree ttoo bbee hhaadd wwhheetthheerr iitt iiss iinn pprrooppeerrttyy,, sshhaarreess oorr bbuussiinneessss.. RReesseeaarrcchh

sshhoowwss tthhaatt ccoommppaanniieess wwhhoo ssttaarrtt dduurriinngg aa rreecceessssiioonn hhaavvee aa bbeetttteerr cchhaannccee

ooff ssuurrvviivvaall tthhaann tthhoossee ssttaarrtteedd iinn ggoooodd ttiimmeess.. AAllssoo tthhoossee ccoommppaanniieess wwhhoo

mmaaiinnttaaiinn oorr iinnccrreeaassee tthheeiirr mmaarrkkeettiinngg rriissee hhiigghh aabboovvee ccoommppeettiittoorrss wwhheenn

tthhiinnggss ccoommee ggoooodd aaggaaiinn aass tthheeyy aallwwaayyss ddoo..

When you look at any stock market graph you will see that there are

always peaks and troughs but there is, over time, always an upward

trend, this means the bottom line is that eventually we will come out of

this tough period and you have to ask yourself are you going to be there

to enjoy it. Like the saying says ‘‘when the going gets tough the tough

get going’’.

We’re going to give you an action plan to address

your fears so you can not only survive, but

thrive during this current recession.

Let’s start by identifying your attitude. To help you,

we’ve outlined four specific recession coping strategies

below. You’ll undoubtedly note a bit of ‘‘fowl’’ play in our

list to coincide with our current economy.

CChhiicckkeenn LLiittttllee -- ‘‘The sky is falling!’’ ‘‘The sky is falling!’’

OOssttrriicchh -- Sticking your head in the sand.

BBuuzzzzaarrdd -- Circling your company just waiting for it to die.

EEaaggllee -- Using the economic turbulence to rise above the

storm.

Some of you have already figured out where you fall on

the list. We’ll help you build an action plan to address

your fears, below. If you aren’t sure which flock you’re

in, keep bird watching, it should become clear soon.

Chicken LittleNo threat can be overestimated. But, hey, even during

the worst thunderstorm, we’ve never seen the Big Sky

fall. Mr. Little’s refrain is to always anticipate the worst,

regardless of recession history or facts.

There is one big difference between Little and you. He

got a big movie deal with Disney, residuals and lots of

plush toys. In other words, he has turned his act into a

money-making machine. Trust us, he is one rare bird.

That paranoia probably won’t work as well for you. So

start by asking yourself the following questions:

CChhiicckkeenn LLiittttllee’’ss CChheecckkuupp QQuueessttiioonnss::

Have you survived a recession before?

Who do you know that is succeeding during the current

recession while others are panicking?

What is your recession goal?

If Chicken Little’s shoe fits you, then you should take

specific steps to get out of that frame of mind and

address your recession fears.

CChhiicckkeenn LLiittttllee’’ss AAccttiioonn PPllaann ffoorr SSuurrvviivviinngg aa RReecceessssiioonn::

1) Learn from yourself! If you are over 7 years old, you have survived at

least one recession. If you’re 45 or older, you made it through the

economic recession in the 70s (not to mention Woodstock and bell

bottoms) and three additional recessions. But chances are that you’ve

forgotten your survival strategies. Pull out bank receipts and bills from

past recession periods to see where you cut corners. Look through old

calendars or files to remember workplace strategies you used that were

successful.

2) Learn from others. Look at all the people you know. Chances are that

at least a few of them are doing well despite the

economic challenges. Offer to buy them a cup

of coffee and then pick their brains. Let your

friends help you through this current recession.

24 costalife

SSSS TTTTAAAAYYYY IIII NNNN GGGGPPPP OOOO SSSS IIII TTTT IIII VVVV EEEE IIII NNNN AAAA

RRRR EEEE CCCC EEEE SSSS SSSS IIII OOOO NNNNFFFF

costalife 25

3) Establish a career goal.

Chicken Little burns up a lot of

energy running around

unfocused. Avoid that mistake.

Establish clear goals for your

career and where you’d like to

end up.

OstrichDid you know that Ostriches are

the fastest animal on two legs?

Isn’t it ironic that the big bird

has the reputation for putting

its head in the sand as opposed

to running away from a serious threat? Maybe that description also

applies to you! Start by asking yourself the following questions.

OOssttrriicchh’’ss CChheecckkuupp QQuueessttiioonnss::

Are you paying attention?

Are you constantly on the lookout for new opportunities?

Are you ready to run?

If you are feeling like an Ostrich, use the following as a foundation to your

plan of attack for the current recession.

OOssttrriicchh’’ss AAccttiioonn PPllaann ffoorr SSuurrvviivviinngg aa RReecceessssiioonn::

1) Stay in the know. It's easy to check out when the going gets tough. (Is

the economy still in a recession?) After all, you can only ingest so much

bad news, but a bird still needs to eat. It is important to know what’s

going on in your community and in your industry so opportunities don't

pass you by.

2) Pursue long shots. Spend a half-hour every day pursuing long shots.

Write to people you read about in the newspaper and on the Web to

explore possible business collaborations. When everyone else is pulling

back you should be pulling out all the stops.

3) Respond quickly. You’ve worked hard to open doors and get where you

are in your career. If you see an opportunity, be ready to react. Have an

information packet about you, or your business idea, ready to go on a

moment’s notice.

BuzzardIt’s tough to have energy while you are watching your organization

struggle. We understand the temptation to just circle the carcass looking

for your pound of flesh during an economic recession. But remember, life

goes on. And so should you. Start by asking the following questions.

BBuuzzzzaarrdd’’ss CChheecckkuupp QQuueessttiioonnss::

Do you ask yourself what's next?

Is there anything going right inside your company?

How can you keep your attitude out of a death spiral?

If the buzzard point of view matches yours, then consider

following the action plan below.

BBuuzzzzaarrdd’’ss AAccttiioonn PPllaann ffoorr SSuurrvviivviinngg aa RReecceessssiioonn::

1) Look ahead, not just in the rearview mirror.

Sure you want to focus some effort on

severance and unemployment insurance.

But don’t put the majority of your efforts

there. Start looking forward to your next

opportunity.

2) Look for signs

of life inside your

company. Rarely

does an entire

company go

dead at once.

There are often

d e p a r t m e n t s

that are

successful. Seek

out places and

people that are

s u c c e e d i n g

during the

c u r r e n t

recession.

3) Find techniques for staying positive. Exercise. Eat better. Stay away

from the news just before bed time. Volunteer. Find creative ways to use

your nervous dark-side energy for good!

EagleThere are a lot of possible ways to cope with a storm, but the Eagle’s is

impossible to top because they fly OVER storms. Eagles will let the

turbulent winds push them over the storm to bluer skies. ‘‘Yeah, right,’’

you’re thinking. ‘‘I’m no eagle!’’ That’s why we’ve included the following

questions to help you soar to a level you might not have thought possible

during this current recession.

EEaaggllee''ss CChheecckkuupp QQuueessttiioonnss::

Do you anticipate, but not fear, trouble?

What would someone in your position never do during the current

recession?

How can you rise above your current situation?

Ready to fly like an eagle? We’ve included an action plan below.

EEaaggllee’’ss AAccttiioonn PPllaann ffoorr SSuurrvviivviinngg aa RReecceessssiioonn::

1) Create an early warning system. Eagles are famous for anticipating a

storm before other animals. You need to do the same during the current

recession. Identify variables in your industry that point to trouble ahead.

For example, pay attention to key customers whose buying patterns are

leading indicators for the entire industry. The earlier you spot potential

trouble, the sooner you can start developing solutions to address it.

2) Try something unexpected. The eagle flies right into the storm. What

can you do that is equally surprising? Do you have a former boss that you

left on bad terms? See if you can repair the relationship.

3) Expand your vision. It isn't an accident that we refer to someone as

being eagle-eyed. Because eagles have great vision and the largest

hunting range of any bird. How can you expand your vision? Start by

looking beyond your post code. Or to another industry.

Whatever your current situation, always remember you have been

through tough times before, keep fighting and work harder. If it’s a dream

worth having then it’s worth fighting for. Nothing in life of any value is free

or easy. Adapt, change and overcome, think of new areas of working, old

ideas that maybe wouldn’t work then but might now, take a look at your

expenses and wherever you can make cut backs and save a bit of money

but without compromising your reputation. Use your mobile less, use your

car less if you can, introduce offers and discounts, turn lights off if

they’re not being used, every penny you can save is a penny in your

pocket. Never stop advertising and marketing though, it works and

especially during hard times you are showing confidence and

therefore creating confidence in the marketplace by keeping your

name out there. The biggest companies in the world advertise all

the time and everywhere, and more so in a recession. Be positive

and ideas and strategies will come, be negative and you might as

well quit now. The choice is yours. Good luck.

For more information and help go to

http://www.payscale.com/current-recession.

LocalBusinessSpotlight

27

28

29

30

34

32

33

34

36

At Costa Life we dedicate morespace to business editorial than anyother publication on the coast. It isimportant to us to introduce to youinformation about our new clientsand remind you on a regular basisabout existing ones. We are a freemagazine and we only exist becauseof our clients and we therefore feelit right to dedicate a section of themagazine to promoting to you, ourreaders, the people, both new andold, who make Costa Life possible.

If you need to make use of theservices or products promoted inthis section or indeed throughoutthis issue please let our clientsknow that you have seen them inCosta Life Magazine.

Thank You.

NEW ENGLANDKITCHENSSPAIN

EUINSURANCE DIRECT

e came to Spain in 2005 with our wholefamily to have a better life in the sun. Wenow consider Spain our home and not theUK. Since coming here even more of our

extended family have moved over to join us.

At the age of 15, I started my training in a work room inSheffield in all aspects of soft furnishing, covering bothdomestic and commercial work; I completed myapprenticeship at the age of 21.

When we married and started a family I worked fromhome doing private work for clients. My daughter Clairtrained in retail and worked for a number of years in theinteriors department in a local store, she now does all ourinterior design and sourcing fabrics and furniture for ourclients we can offer a full furniture package to suit theirbudget.

Our autumn sale will have started by the time this issue isdistributed. Our fabrics start from as little as 1€ and we have

a range of curtain poles and rails at reasonable prices.Everyone is looking for a bargain and in the present economic

climate even more so. We are offering our customers theopportunity to pay in English sterling to save on the exchangerate.

My husband Jon and Son-in-law Barry do all our fitting of poles andtracks they also make all the wooden pelmets and head boards for

us to cover.

Jon is a qualified electrician and Barry worked for a number of years fora furniture making company in England, they can turn their hand to mostjobs from painting to furniture removal and look after our maintenanceside of the business.

We offer a full property management and maintenance packageavailable on request to suit the individual's needs, from key holding tofull property inspections.

If you are looking to buy a property in Spain we now offer a home finderservice. If you let us know your requirements budget and where youare interested in buying we will do all the leg work for you so all youhave to do is arrive and look at the potential properties.

90% of our client comethrough recommendationand can give youreferences from satisfiedcustomers.

W

costalife 27

costaCOMPANIES >>

AA.C.E..C.E.CCORORTINTINAS AS S.C.S.C.

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pmSaturday and evenings by appointment

Centro Comercial Las Terrazas De Miraflores, Calle Aquario,Riviera del Sol, Mijas Costa

Tel 951 273 242 Mob 645 082 560 info@acecortinas.com

“We Do It So You Don't Have To”

Due to circumstances beyond our controlwe have moved back to Centro ComercialLas Terrazas De Miraflores, Calle Aquario,

Riviera del Sol, Mijas Costa

BUSINESS AS USUAL

OOpp

eenn

ccoorr

CCaallllee

AAqquuaarrii

oo

AACC

EE

N3

40

CURTAINS, BEDSPREADS, CUSHIONS,LOOSE COVERS, HEADBOARDS, PELMETS,

SWAGS AND TAILS ALL MADE TO MEASURE.

We stock a wide range of poles and railsat reasonable prices

We accept payment in english sterling

>> costaCOMPANIES

28 costalife

Welcome to Aim British building supplies, the coasts premier one stopwarehouse for everything a British tradesmen may need here on theCosta del sol. Aim Building Supplies are located in Elviria on the poligonoElviria behind the Repsol petrol station on the way to Marbella. Whetheryou are a professional tradesman or have work to do at home it is alwaysdifficult to find the right products here in Spain, whether it be sourcingyour preferred UK building materials or having difficulty with instructionsand terminology, life is hard enough without the stress of finding the rightproducts and then not being able to understand the text.

Well, your troubles may be over, Aim Building Supplies has establisheditself as the leader on the coast for supplies of UK building products.

They can supply all the top British brands of building materials and tools.Brand named products in stock include Cuprinol, Everbuild, Jablite,Unibond, Makati, 3M and many more top named brands from the U.K.Products in stock include; plaster board and plaster, kennels andhutches, wood, timber, both treated and rough sawn, general buildingsupplies, tools, sheds and playhouses, fencing, decking, paint and woodstains, thistle boarding, ready mixed adhesives, screws and nails, D.P.C.Lead flashing, cement and cement add mixers i.e. plasticizers andwaterproofing, coving and much more.

Whatever isn’t in stock they can source through major distributors in theU.K. Deliveries arrive every ten days so they can order you virtually any ofworks necessities and it can be here within two weeks.

Boss John says ‘‘We realized that there was high demand for UK Buildingproducts and materials as many UK tradesman want to work with thematerials they have always used but find it virtually impossible to getthem here in Spain, At Aim we can literally supply anything from ascrewdriver to a JCB, all types of wood and the best plaster board andplaster, everything a professional tradesman needs to do the best job hecan’’.

We all know what it can be like in Spain when you buy products and aren’tclear about instructions. All aim products are from the U.K. so not onlyare you getting products you know and trust but all text and instructionsare in English which makes life much easier.

Whatever your Building or DIY needs visit Aim Building Supplies, they areopen to both trade and public and they have a delivery service available.

Opening hours are 8 - 5.30 Monday to Friday, no siesta, Saturday by priorarrangement only.

costaCOMPANIES >>

costalife 29

Cortidea has been established on the Costa del Sol since 1995 andowner Henrik has over 25 years experience in the business, they providehigh quality curtains, blinds, cushions and a wide range of other servicesincluding upholstery and made to measure awnings. In the shop at CentroIdea on the Mijas road you will find an abundance of Danish qualitycurtain materials as well as a large selection of materials from leadingSpanish, British and Italian suppliers. The shop has one of the mostbeautiful hand picked collections of fabrics for curtains, upholstery andhome furnishings from leading European Manufacturers. From ‘‘SATI’’,‘‘Alhambra’’, ‘‘Pagunette of Scandinavia’’, ‘‘Camengo’’, ‘‘Casamance’’ to‘‘ADO’’, ‘‘Wind’’ and ‘‘Sumiko Honda’’ just to mention a few. They will alsosoon be supplying the Designer’s Guild collection. They also have wall towall carpets and rugs from the very popular Danish manufacturer ‘‘egetæpper’’.

CurtainsCortIdea has a wide selection of curtain materials, which covers curtaintypes from the classical look to the young and modern style. CortIdea onlytake in the best quality products from leading producers in Denmark,Spain, Britain and Italy and they assure you that you will receive the bestinformation on treatment (wash/clean) of your chosen material.

Blinds and ShuttersThe blind is the classical form of sun-shading and with the manypossibilities.

In a choice of material they are still a good solution, which can bematched to your home surroundings. At CortIdea they have a largeselection blinds including; Venetian, vertical and Roller blinds suppliedfrom the ‘‘GRADULUX’’ range by Hunter Douglas which guaranteeexcellent and professional after service.

New to Cortidea is the sale and distribution of interior wood shutterssupplied by ‘‘Shaftesburys’’ from the UK.

Re-upholsteryOld furniture with new materials can tastefully create a new life in aresidence. Materials matching the surroundings can give an old piece offurniture a new lease of life especially when it at the same time gets itssprings readjusted CortIdea will be glad to give you a quote.

With their professional workshop you are assured high quality productand service which includes a full advice and measuring service.

CortIdea can offer you a wide range of products to the highest standardsand with thousands of satisfied clients over nearly fifteen years you are

assured the best service.Contact Cortidea today toarrange a home visit orvisit us in the shop atCentro Idea, Ctra. de Mijaskm 3.6E-29650 Mijas,Málaga, Spain.

Open Monday-Friday:10.00 am - 8.00 pmSaturday: 10.00 am -02.00 pm Telephone/Fax952 46 12 21 Mob 617 38 02 38 E-mail info@cortidea.com

Professional and skilled re upholstery work as made to measure, in andoutdoor cushions, is also catered for. With own workshop, high qualityand service assured which includes full advise / measuring service aswell as sewing and fitting are also cared for to highest standards.

Web: www.cortidea.comCheck also: www.casamance.jp, www.pagunette.dk, www.sati.es,www.ege.dk, www.shaftesburys.co.uk

Vertical BlindsVertical Blinds canbe made to fitalmost any type ofwindow and beadjusted to anyangle from totallyopen, with noshading, to totallyclosed The Blindsare available in anabundance ofcolours, patternsand qualities.

>> costaCOMPANIES

30 costalife

CREDIT CRUNCH!!!! HOUSING CRISIS!!!! RISING INFLATION!!!!CAN WE AFFORD TO CUT COSTS???

The current climate has left many of us worried about our future. Manyof us are cutting back, not going out to eat so much, not drinking so much(OK could be a good thing….) trying to save money to weather the storm.Many people are pulling in the reigns and only spending what they haveto. We have seen this happen before and it takes some time, buteventually the economy bounces back and we forget there was ever aproblem.

In these trying times we look at cutting back on financial outlays that wefeel unnecessary. The worrying factor is that many people don’t renewtheir insurances, their cars may stay in the garage, the health cover stopsbeing paid in the hope that nothing happens, however this is not thesensible way to cut costs….

If you own a car in Spain by law it has to be insured, whether it is in thegarage not used for 6 months of the year or whether it is being repairedat the local garage, insurance is a legal requirement. Even HomeInsurance, many clients who have been insured for years and have neverclaimed decide not to renew, only to find the day after it expires that theyneed to make a claim…. Health cover should never be cancelled becausehealth companies do not normally accept pre-existing conditions and theminute you cease your regular payment they can exclude you from cover.We all look to save money in the long term but these areas are vitallyimportant and where it can actually cost you money to cease cover.

If you are choosing Insurance it is best to go to a professional whounderstands your needs, your budget and the market to see the bestoptions available to you. Wendy Codd at EU Insurance Direct has been inInsurance for 15 years in the UK and has built her business on trust andrecommendation over the last 3 years in Spain. Her recommendationsfor insurance for all her clients rely on her experience and knowledge ofher clients. Everyone wants a bargain, but that bargain has to be areputable company offering good cover, not just a cheap insurance thatrefuses to pay out in the event of a claim.

Wendy offers a completely One Stop Shop for all your Insurance needs.Based in Elviria (near the town hall) she offers a personal service to allher clients. Her portfolio from car insurance (UK, Spanish, Dutch and N.Irish Plates), Home Insurance to cover worldwide all risks, Travel (up to 84years), Commercial, Savings, Life Cover, Critical Illness, Pensions andmore.

One of the more interesting products she offers is a Private HealthInsurance which covers 99% pre-existing conditions (subject to

underwriting) with no age limit and 1,600,000 euros of cover p.a. Coveris underwritten by Europe Assistance and it is the only plan of its kind onthe coast. Costs range from 2300 p.a. for 18-65 years to just over 3000euros p.a. for over 65 +. Not the most inexpensive policy available on themarket but certainly the most comprehensive. Further details onrequest.

For details of any of the plans she offers, the best quotes and adviceplease call Wendy Codd of EU Insurance Direct on 952 830 843 or 676098 464.

EUINSURANCE DIRECT

EUINSURANCE DIRECTAAllll iinnssuurraannccee aanndd ffiinnaanncciiaall nneeeeddss iinn ppllaaiinn EEnngglliisshh

We coverCars, motorbikes, homesand contents, boats and

life/critical illness

We also offerMortgage protection,

Mortgages, private healthplans, travel protection,

savings plans, Private HealthPlan which covers 90% ofpre-eexisting conditions and

much moreAlso agents for AXA products

We can insure you for less!!Contact Wendy on 952 830 843 or 676 098 464

Fax: 951 310 524FFrraammiirree RReessiiddeenncciiaall,, LLooccaall CCoommeerrcciiaall 66,,

CCeerrrraaddoo ddee EEllvviirriiaa,, 2299660044,, MMaarrbbeellllaa,, MMaallaaggaa

Debbie Rose the owner of Images Hair and Beauty in Elviria andCalahonda has been here in Spain since 1984.

Debbie has successfully been in hairdressing here on the Coast since1994.

At Images of Elviria, Tracie, Pedro, Yvonne, Susana and Amy are a greatteam and are there to attend all of your hairdressing needs. The staff ofImages Elviria have been with Debbie for many years. She’s extremelyproud of their dedication and trust, this being one of the main reasonswhy Debbie has been able to expand.

Images of Calahonda opened on the 30th June 2008. Alongside Debbieis a team of professional stylists Angela, Judith, and Caron thereceptionist. We aim to give a complete service and are fullyknowledgeable on all the latest cutting and coloring techniques.

We are also pleased to announce the arrival of The Nanomax System!The Nanomax System is a highly technical treatment specializing indamaged hair follicle. When hair has been repeatedly coloured or overprocessed by chemicals including sun damage, this is the treatment foryou. Through a fine mist the ultimate technology system introducesnanomolecules of Keratin and Protein into the hair structure to repairstrengthen, protect and finish with the most amazing shine.

The Nanomax System has been created to personalize the necessities ofall types of hair. This system also provides a colour lock treatment thattotally locks in colour preventing loss, resulting in a fabulous 3D shine.

Now introducing a very important part ofour industry is our Massage and BeautyTherapist Kirsten (formally from Lew HoadsHair and Beauty).

Kirsten who specializes in all aspects ofmassage therapy including Thai YogaMassage is pleased to introduce the longawaited…John Masters Organic Range.

These products are exclusive to our salonat Calahonda and also to Spain. The John

Masters complete facial fuses together the living history of the naturalworld with the futuristic complexities of skin care.

Holistic influences and hot stones complement the state of the artapplication of this complete facial.

Welcome, Purify, Nurture, Balance, and Bliss your five steps torejuvenation.

At Images we have established a reputation for quality and professionalhair and beauty treatments over years of experience here on the coast.Whatever yourrequirements we canguarantee that atImages Hair andBeauty you will bemore than satisified.Also at Images ofCalahonda The ClassicSt Tropez TanningTreatment.

costaCOMPANIES >>

costalife 31

‘‘John Masters Organics; Super Natural Beauty’’

New salon now openin Calahonda

HHaappppyy 44tthh BBiirrtthhddaayyKiss celebrated its fourth anniversary in August; Iwould like to thank all our clients for their continuingsupport. The team here at Kiss are dedicated andcommitted to the salons vision of being the leadinghair, nail and beauty provider in the area. The saloncontinues to grow with new team members, productsand services. I have a highly qualified andexperienced team and I would like to introduce theteam to you.

Lisa Salon Owner/Hair StylistI am a fully qualified hairdresser with 13 yearsexperience. I offer all aspects of hairdressing fromgents to fashion techniques, my passion is colouringand cutting. If you have not had a good colour and cutwhilst being in Spain, let me take care of your hair!

Michele Hair StylistMichele is a fully qualified hairdresser with 13years experience. Michele’s expertise coverscutting to colouring and fashion techniques, andspecialises in bridal styling and up do’s. A trial isoffered before the wedding day, and then relax onyour special day in Michele’s capable hands!Party hair styles are very popular, so if you fancy aunique look for that special event book withMichele today!

Katrina Hair Stylist and Hair ExtensionsKatrina joined the team earlier this year and isenjoying every moment of it. A fully qualifiedhairdresser with 12 years experience. Katrinaspecialises in hair extensions and trained withRacoon. Using natural human hair. Katrina cantransform your hair, don't wait another day toexperience the excitement of what hair extensionscan do for you- book your consultation today!

Lyndsay Beauty Therapist / Nail TechnicianLyndsay is a fully qualified beauty therapist and nailtechnician with 5 years experience. Lyndsay offersbeauty treatments and specialises in acrylic nailsusing creative products. Try natural permanent Frenchor go for this seasons brightly painted nails! For fullsets or maintenance Lyndsay is in the Salon onThursdays.

Abi Beauty TherapistAbi is the latest addition to the team, but is alreadyvery popular. Qualified in beauty and massage with 4years experience. Abi offers the wide range of beautyand massage treatments and specialises in ClarinsFacials. So whether you have sensitive or stressed outskin, the treatment is tailored to your skins needs. Abialso offers some fantastic pamper packages to giveyou that relaxed and refreshed feeling- so go onpamper your self!

Dominique Spray Tan TechnicianDominique offers the Fantasy Tan Spray which is individually tailored toyour skin. The tan looks natural and gives you that sun kissed look.Dominique will advise you which tan to have, so go on have a tan today!

Kerrie Massage Therapist and ReflexologyKerrie is a fully qualified therapist with a wealth ofexperience. Kerrie offers massage and reflexologytreatment and is available for appointments onMondays.

We also offer teeth whitening clinics on a 6 weekly basis; we have avertical tanning unit with individual sessions or excellent savings on blockbookings - so when the sun goes down, top up your tan at Kiss! We offera wide range of retail products, with the new pink Ghd’s now availablewith 10 euros going to Breast Cancer- don’t miss out on your set!

I look forward to the next year at Kiss; with this excellent team we won’tbe going anywhere! Give us a call today and let us take care of your hairand beauty needs- have your Kiss experience today!

Opening hours: Monday 10-5 Tues- Friday 10-6.30 Saturday 10-4

952666787 630800572

Hair, Nails and BeautyHair, Nails and Beauty

costaCOMPANIES >>

costalife 33

New image! New products! And new services! Sunshine Golf is confidentlymoving forward into the future. Despite all the doom and gloom that wehear and see, we certainly do not share this outlook. We firmly believethat the superb climate and golf courses that we enjoy in this privilegedpart of Europe will always offer golfers from all over the world the perfectgolfing holiday experience. It has always been our ambition to give ourclients a quality service in all the many facets of our company and we areconstantly striving to offer new and better services.

New Image: - Sunshine Golf has been trading since 1992 so the Directorshave decided to update our marketing logo to reflect the gloriousAndalusian sun

New Products: - First among many new products for this Autumn is thenew range of Golf Clubs from ‘‘Benross’’ with award winningperformance. These clubs have received tremendous acclaim in the UKgolfing press for the quality and value for money they offer. Full sets ofrental/demo clubs are available, so try before you buy.

New Services: - Golf ball logo service ,we can now offer a 48 hour golf balllogo service with no set up charges. It’s easy, simply choose the ball youprefer, leave them with us and we will print your logo and have them readyfor your collection within 48 hours at very reasonable rates.

Embroidery logo service:- Our embroidery division, Bordados M BroideryS.L., which was launched in 2005 has moved into the Sunshine Golfbuilding on the lower sales floor to provide more room to accommodatethe incredible growth it has been fortunate enough to experience. Ourclient base includes many of the coasts best known golf clubs andbusinesses from all fields. As with all our other activities it offers our

clients a rapid turn round whether we are supplying the product to beembroidered or clients own products.

Golf tee time reservations: - Sunshine Golf is one of the longestestablished golf tee time reservation service companies on the coast. Weare a fully bonded tour operator offering complete peace of mind to ourclients. Our reputation is our guarantee. We are in contact with all thecoasts many golf courses on a daily basis so are in a position to provideinformed opinion on the value and quality of all the courses. Our in housegolf professional Mike Roberts has the fortunate job of playing all thecourses on a regular basis (tough but some body has to do it!). He canoffer on course golf lessons or lessons on several nearby golf drivingranges.

Golf club rental service: - Airlines are now charging considerable sums tocarry your beloved sets of golf clubs without caring too much about themso why not rent a set of quality golf clubs from Sunshine Golf. We offersets of Ram, Benross, Callaway and Taylormade at daily, multiday andweekly rates. Save yourselves the hassle and call us for a quotation.

Let us help you to enjoy your golf and save money at Sunshine Golf.

costalife 35

costaCOMPANIES >>

The Mijas Playa is probably the Coast’s most enjoyable diningexperience. Situated in the lovely village of La Cala, beachside, only 10minutes from Marbella & 5 minutes from Fuengirola, you can enjoyunforgettable International cuisine in the luxurious interior restaurant orwonderful terrace dining overlooking the Mediterranean.

Open for Dinner, 7 days. Full A La Carte menu plus a superb valueDinner menu, (Sunday to Friday) for only €24.

Don't miss our fabulous Traditional Sunday Lunch starting soon - onceyou try it you won’t want to go anywhere else!

Best Value on the Coast. Entertainment all afternoon.

2 Courses 22.50€ 3 Courses 27.50€

The restaurant has entertainment every evening provided by residentPianist & Singer David Mairs, helped by various great Cabaret Acts.

The Best Dinner Dance venue on the Costa del Sol.

Should you be looking for a party venue or a place for family & friendsto get together, the Mijas Playa is the perfect choice.

Vu’s Bar the glamorous new Bar, upstairs at The Mijas Playa is rapidlybecoming a firm favourite with everyone who appreciates luxury, styleand a great place in which to meet & relax. Enjoy the outstanding viewsacross the Mediterranean which nature has created, you won’t want toleave.

The Mijas Playa and Vu’s Bar are perfect for all Party Bookings and havebecome the Wedding specialist on the coast. The expert staff canarrange every aspect of weddings with no detail overlooked. Fromblessings on the beach to large elegant receptions, the restaurant & the

smaller Vu’s bar can graciously accommodate groups ranging in sizefrom 12 to 200.

Telephone 952493749.

Regardless how many times you dine at the Mijas Playa or party in Vu’sBar your evening will always be special.

We look forward to seeing you.

Quality furniture available for every room in the homeNew England Kitchens Spain pride ourselfs on having english madefurniture by William Ball, we offer a diverse range of Kitchens, Bedrooms,Studies and Open Plan Living for every consumer taste. A selection offurniture can be mixed and matched. An extensive range of unit sizesincluding unusual widths of 350, 450, 700 and 900mm to suit everyeventuality is available and all units are colour co-ordinated which allowsyou to carry the exterior finish into the cabinet, shelves and interior, tocreate a completely co-ordinated look, both inside and out.

Over 40 ranges of quality kitchens,20 bedrooms, 10 studies and10 open plan living styles.

Check us out WWW.NEKITCHENSSPAIN.com

When you have a moment please visit our comprehensive website It hasa powerful navigation system to allow easy access to the full productrange. View all the different styles that can help transform your dreamsinto reality. Affordable luxury at your finger tips, just submit your detailsto receive a free estimate from our sales team.

Made to be enjoyed, made to be admired, and above all made to last"

Awarded the FIRA Gold Award for excellence of quality

The quality of William Ball furniture is considered to be amongst the bestin the industry. The FIRA (Furniture Industry Research Association) GoldAward has been awarded for the excellence of product. Achieving thisprestigious award shows that a product or range of furniture has beenevaluated for fitness for purpose, quality and workmanship.

Contact us now for free planning and design you will be glad you did.

951 238553653 062550

>> costaCOMPANIES

36 costalife

40 years in the tradeKitchens, Bedrooms

and Studies

Quality English Kitchens,Planning and design

Profesional fitting service low cost budget range with

immediate delivery

call now for details951 238 553 652 062 550

Visit our vast selection atwww.nekitchensspain.com

or email alan@nekitchensspain.com

NEW ENGLANDKITCHENSSPAIN

NEW ENGLANDKITCHENSSPAIN

38 costalife

ess than 6 hours after leaving the

Change of Life Ball (which was the best

yet Ronan!!) I was walking a track which

would eventually lead to the top of the

Mijas Mountain Range, Pico Mijas was

the destination. I was with a group training for

an Everest Base Camp Trip up the mountain,

looking down at the incredible views of the

coast I started to think about the psychology of

sports. Finding motivation to train and sticking

with an exercise and fitness plan on a regular

basis isn't always easy, we all have other issues

that take demands on our time, family, work,

travel - not to mention late nights!!

Research has proved that goal setting is a great

way to stay motivated.

The S.M.A.R.T. principle is a frame work

adopted by many athletes to set their long and

short term goals. This principle can easily be

adopted by anyone wanting to get fit or simply

to retain or enhance their fitness. The core

concept to making fitness part of your way of

life, is by making the right choices in life and not

just quick faddy diets or ineffective on/off

training sessions.

While choosing to live, eat and exercise

correctly should be a life time plan, a proven

way to ensure the success of this philosophy is

by setting short term achievable goals.

S.M.A.R.T. Goals can be linked to all aspects of

life depending on your particular goals. Take

loosing weight and being fit for example

S.M.A.R.T. goals will keep you focused in

achieving what you set out to do.

SO HOW DOES S.M.A.R.T. WORK?

S = SPECIFICBe Specific about what you

want to do. To start with you

may think that you 'just want to

lose weight' but this isn't

specific enough.

Concentrate on the following 6

words:-

WWhhoo::-- Needs to be involved for

this to happen? - me!

WWhhaatt::-- Do you want to achieve,

ie. how much weight loss -

5kg?

WWhheenn::-- Do you want to achieve

this by? - 6 months

WWhhiicchh::-- Which way are you

going to do this? By eating and exercising

effectively

WWhheerree::-- The location, in a gym?

WWhhyy::-- What is the purpose of all this? To be fit

and healthy

So now we have become Specific!

I……… want to lose 5kg ……. in 6 months ……. by

eating and exercising effectively ……

in a gym ……. to be fit and healthy.

M = MEASURABLESo now you know specifically what you want to

do but you need to know how well you are

doing? This is done by measuring your progress

frequently, as to whether what you are doing is

actually working or not and by keeping track of

your results this will boost your confidence and

keep you motivated when you see and feel

your fitness levels and your body shape

changing.

A = ATTAINABLEWhat if you said you wanted to lose

5kg in 4 weeks! That not only would

be unrealistic but you would be

setting yourself up for failure.

Giving yourself reasonable goals

that are attainable will give

you success in

achieving your

objectives, keeping

you motivated.

R = REALISTICThis is different from setting attainable goals.

For example you want to lose 5kg in 6 months

this is attainable if you set a realistic eating and

exercise plan but if you set your plan which

involves for example, running for 2 hours

everyday and visiting the gym for an hour

afterwards, the probability would be that you

would be unable to stick to this even for the first

week. Be realistic with what time scale you

have and make sure that the time scale you

agree on is sustainable.

T = TIMINGGoals do not make sense unless you attach a

time scale to them. For example giving yourself

6 months to achieve your target. A fixed time

table and a sense of urgency will

help to keep you on track.

Use the S.M.A.R.T.

method of goal setting in

your fitness regimen and

you will see slow but

steady incremental

benefits that will

increase your motivation

and give you the

desire to

LMotivated for Exercise?

Helen Johnson - Personal Fitness Trainer & Nutritionist - 617 453 550 - fitness@luv2btraining.com

>> costaLIFESTYLE

costaLIFESTYLE >>

achieve a set of goals then strive for more.

5 Ways to speed up your metabolism

(1) Drink water.Drinking cold water inceases the metabolism

for half an hour. It is the activity of your body

warming the water that burns the calories.

(2) Eat earlyMetabolic rate is at its highest in the morning.

Research has proved that breakfast eaters are

less likely to be overweight than those who

don't eat first thing in the morning.

(3) Quality ProteinA study in the journal of clinical nutrition

suggests that the body uses more calories to

process protein than carbohydrates or fats. So

eat lean sources of protein, ie. eggs, poultry

and fish.

(4) Keep eating!Divide your daily food intake into 3 meals

and 2 snacks.

(5) SleepAn exhausted body lacks the ability to burn

calories. A University in Chicago found that

people who have four hours sleep or less have

difficulty digesting foods.

While working out, men

often find

t h e m s e l v e s

reaching a

plateau. Although

you are following

a programme

closely the results

can be seen but then it stops and while strength gains may still be

occurring, size gains are not.

PauseUse pauses to increase the difficulty of an exercise. With bicep curls, curl

the weight all the way up; begin lowering it until you are at the halfway

point, pause, and then finish the downward motion.

Higher repsUp your reps. Your body might need to increase the size of the muscle

tissue, rather than just make it stronger.

Increase volumeIf you choose to increase the volume, you should be aware of your

nutrition. Extra weight-training volume will place a big demand on the

body for muscle glycogen, so your need for carbohydrates is going to

increase. You should bump up your calorie intake to accommodate this.

Change your dietWhen gaining muscle mass diet is the key factor, calories are definitely

needed to support this growth, and protein should stay relatively

constant.

If you’ve been trying a low carb approach, consider bumping it up. If you

want to stick with the low carb diet because you want to lose weight that’s

fine just add more calories when it comes to building the muscle.

While you can build muscle on a high-fat diet (with healthier sources of

fat, of course), generally it is not the best approach. So, think about

bringing your carbohydrate intake up to at least a 30%. That might help

get the muscles growing larger again.

>> costaLIFESTYLE

40 costalife

Age-old mythsHair loss comes from the mother’s sideWhile baldness is genetic, it is not limited to the maternal side

of the family. The hair-loss gene can come from either side.

Wearing hats causes hair lossIn order for the hair to fall out, the hat would have to be so tight

that it cuts circulation to the follicles. So no, wearing hats

does not cause hair loss.

Excessive use of hair products causes hair lossThere are no hair-care products that cause hair loss. You may sculpt your locks with as

much gel, mousse or spray as you desire.

Standing on your head cures hair lossThe idea is that, by standing on your head, blood flow will be increased and your scalp

will be regenerated. Specialists agree on the fact that it has no influence on hair loss at

all; follicles need more than blood flow to grow hair.

Brushing your hair is better than combing it actually; your hair reacts better to a comb

than a brush. Brushing it will only lead to split ends and hair breakage, not to male

pattern baldness.

Cutting your hair will make it grow back thickerThis common misconception comes from the fact that hair is thicker at the base than it

is at the tip, so it appears thicker at first. Cutting your hair does not affect hair growth at

all; it will grow about half an inch each month no matter what.

At last we can sayAt last we can saygoodbye to thegoodbye to theskinny jean…skinny jean…

At last the designers are

finally loosening up… we

can say goodbye to

skinny jeans…stay

clear of the boot cut

unless you’re a

college kid and say

hello to the wider

cut jeans which

make a statement

but still looks

sophisticated.

To make a

s t a t e m e n t

wear with the

classic loafer

and a fitted shirt.

Steps totake when you plateau

fully air conditioned - lockers

high powered showers - hair dryers

mens & womens saunas - jacuzzi

sun beds

fully equipped gym with both fixed and

free weights

crosstrainers + bikes

treadmills + rowing machines

professional instructor available

only gym open at 8 am

over 56 fitness classes every week

step aerobics, aerobics, yoga, bums & tums,

latest reebok decks

new from Finland “gym stick”

suitable all ages

pilates room with pilates reformer beds

individual spin bike room with 40 bikes

individual aerobics and exercise room

with sprung floor

Goshin Ju Jitsu plus Capoeira

Classes

Facilities

Gymnasium

24HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - TEL:656 313 293Tel: 952 577 766 - E-mail: clinica.sandalf@terra.es

www.clinica-sandalf.com

C./ Pepa Guerra Valdenebros, 29631 Benalmadena behind Tivoli World Arroyo

Treatment of Arthritis & RheumatismJoint Replacements - hip,knee,ankle,shoulder

Hip ResurfacingAdvanced Cartilage Repair

Keyhole SurgeryHand and Foot SurgeryAccidents & Fractures

Bone density measuring availableX-ray Facilities - Diagnostic Ultrasound

Back and Neck Problems - sciatica,whiplash,etc.Rehabilitation - post op,post injury

Emergency Accidents dealt with(ambulance service available 24hr per day)

Travel insurance & International insurance claims welcome

Mr Alf NeuhausConsultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Col. No: 9.220

Sandra VincentiUK Chartered Physiotherapist Col. No: 682

42 costalife Store Locator A to ZAccessorize www.accessorize.com La cañada. Benetton www.benetton.com Fuengirola. Burton www.burton.co.uk Gibraltar.

Dorothy Perkins www.dorothyperkins.co.uk Miramar and La Cañada. Evans www.evans.com Fuengirola.

H&M www.hm.com La Cañada. Topman www.topman.com La cañada. www.topshop.com La Cañada.

BBeenneettttoonn

>> costaLIFESTYLE

Hit the town…Hit the town…

Step out inStep out in

stst yle…yle…

‘‘Vintage’’ eco-leather jacket

BBeenneettttoonn

Cotton

trench coat

with belt

BBeenneettttoonn

Black

and blue

inside bubble

jacket

HH&&MM

Light grey

leather

biker

jacket

BBuurrttoonn

mmeenn wwaannttmmeenn wwaanntt

Herringbone jacket

BBuurrttoonn

Sued boots

BBuurrttoonn

Straight leg

jeans

BBuurrttoonn

Brown combat trousers

TTooppmmaann

Green

trainer shoe

TTooppmmaann

TTake it easyake it easy……

Grey zip jumper cardigan

TTooppmmaann

Large

flower

corsage

TTooppsshhoopp

Purple stone embellished bangle

DDoorrootthhyy PPeerrkkiinnss

Narnia

brooch bag

Patent

stretch

panel

boot

EEvvaannssTartan

bag

EEvvaannss

Wide leg

trouser

EEvvaannss

Black

shaggy

cardigan

EEvvaannss

costalife 43

costaLIFESTYLE >>

DDoorrootthhyy PPeerrkkiinnss

Purple

leather bag

HH&&MM

Red bandeau body con dress

DDoorrootthhyy PPeerrkkiinnss

Black satin corsage shoe

DDoorrootthhyy PPeerrkkiinnss

Hard cased

shoulder bag

DDoorrootthhyy PPeerrkkiinnss

Rhinestone

flamingo brooch

DDoorrootthhyy PPeerrkkiinnss

Knock ’em dead in red…Knock ’em dead in red…

Bag itBag it ……

wwoommeenn wwaannttwwoommeenn wwaannttThe finishing touch…The finishing touch…Make a statementMake a statement ……

AAcccceessssoorriizzee

Satin clutch

Jewelled

clutch

Layered round

rhinestone ring

TTooppsshhoopp

Rubbing Lemon on Teeth is a Great

Whitening MethodMaybe so, but you’ll be trading one problem for a

bigger one, because the citric acid in lemons

wears away enamel. The smarter way to

whiten your smile at home is brushing with

baking soda mixed with water a couple of times a

week and saving those lemons for lemonade.

Artificial Enhancements Destroy NailsArtificial nails have massively evolved. The biggest

myth regarding artificial nail wear is suffocation of

the natural nail, thereby causing nail damage, it is

not the artificial nail or the glue that ultimately

causes nail damage, but improper removal-

such as picking or prying off. Nails worn and

removed safely will not inflict any injury to the

nail whatsoever.

Frequent Haircuts Are Necessary for

Hair GrowthYour hair grows at the same speed no matter

how often you cut or trim your locks, regular

trims will help keep stringy split ends in check for healthier-

looking hair.

Breakouts are caused by oily skinIn some cases, yes - but if you are still plagued with

breakouts into adult life this could be due to extreme

sensitivity. If you change your routine to something more

suitable for sensitve skin then guess what your skin will be

clear

Can’t wear ‘‘That’’ colourWhile one shade of red might make you look like a member

of the clown squad, another could bring out your inner

Katherine Hepburn. So pay attention to shades and

undertones in finding your colour: while a blue-red may not

work, an orange-red might.

Crossing your legs causes spider veinsActually, you can thank your mum; genes play the biggest

role in developing spider or varicose veins. If your mother or

grandmother has spider or varicose veins, you are quite likely

to have them and pass them on to your children.

>> costaLIFESTYLE

Foundation Course…The perfect (colour) matchThe best way to choose your foundation shade is to match it to the skin on your jaw

line and throat-not on your actual face. Matching your foundation to your throat will

help avoid your face being three shades darker than your neck. With concealer, you

can go one shade lighter than the foundation shade you choose to lighten up the

skin under the eyes and give you a brighter look.

Super sensitive skinYou want to let your skin breathe, but you also need makeup to make it look even.

Use a thin powder foundation applied with a brush to even out skin tone. It lasts

forever and the finish looks like your skin-but better.

Redness be goneTry a sheer powder foundation that will tone down the redness on the cheeks but

won't make you look like you have a lot of makeup on. Apply a light, thin layer with

a powder brush so you can control the amount you put on.

No more flakesThe flakiness could be due to weather, dehydration or allergies,

continue using a good moisturiser. Try switching brands

and see if that works for you. Also, try a cream

foundation-it stays dewy and moist on the skin.

Changing the way you apply foundation can

also help. Instead of smoothing or swiping it

across the skin, gently pat it on. You’ll avoid pulling

or tugging on the skin, which can create the flakes.

BeautBeaut y Myy My ths Uncovered…ths Uncovered…

Celeb beauty secret…Gwen Stefani applies blue lip

gloss over her famous red

lipstick to bring out the pearly

whites.

44 costalife

NNaattuurree’’ss PPhhiilloossoopphhyyHHeeaalltthh && BBeeaauuttyy SSaalloonn

RReettaaiill ooff NNaattuurraall PPrroodduuccttss

OOppeenniinngg HHoouurrssMMoonn -- FFrrii 1100aamm -- 66ppmm SSaatt 1100aamm -- 22ppmm

AAppppooiinnttmmeennttss ccaann bbee aarrrraannggeedd oouutt ooff hhoouurrss

CClliinniiccaall AArroommaatthheerraappyy -- RReefflleexxoollooggyy -- RReeiikkii--NNaaiill && BBeeaauuttyy TTrreeaattmmeennttss

CCaallllee MMáállaaggaa,, 3399,, MMiijjaass PPuueebbllooTTeell:: 995522448855117722

wwwwww..nnaattuurreesspphhiilloossoopphhyy..nneett

Are you the right person for acareer in hairdressing!

Are you Outgoing - Fashionconscious - Motivated?

Now’s your chanceCome and train with us for the newCity & Guilds Diploma & Advanced

Diploma in hairdressing

Hairdressing - A career for lifeYour future in your hands

Contact us now: tel. 952 939 609email. info@aztec-hair-academy.comwww.aztec-hair-academy.comAztec Country ClubCalle Libra, Riviera del Sol,Mijas Costa

46 costalife

>> costaLIFESTYLE

TTTT oooo pppp tttt iiii pppp …………Eat right for better teeth: Your pearly

whites can gleam. Eat apples, oranges,

celery, carrots and high fiber green.

Boost yourBoost yourmoodmoodnaturallynaturally……Play with a furry

friendPetting a dog or cat for just 15

minutes releases the feel-

good hormones serotonin,

prolactin, and oxytocin, and

lowers the stress hormone

cortisol.

Make yourself smileFake it and you’ll feel sunnier.

The simple act of smiling

seems to activate happiness

centres in the brain.

Eat for ecstasyAdd these foods to your diet: fish,

for omega-3s - a study found that

people with low levels of this

healthy fat were more likely to be

depressed; Brazil nuts, for

selenium-being low on this

antioxidant can get you down; and

orange juice, for folate - too little

causes a dip in happiness-helper

serotonin.

Reach outHuman touch releases uplifting

endorphins like serotonin, and

reduces blood pressure and heart

rate, making you more relaxed

and content.

TTaking paracetamol regularly triples risk of asthma…aking paracetamol regularly triples risk of asthma…RReegguullaarr uusseerrss ooff ppaarraacceettaammooll aarree nneeaarrllyy tthhrreeee ttiimmeess mmoorree lliikkeellyy ttoo

hhaavvee aasstthhmmaa;; ootthheerr ppaaiinnkkiilllleerrss ddiidd nnoott hhaavvee tthhee ssaammee eeffffeecctt..

RReesseeaarrcchheerrss bbeelliieevvee rreegguullaarr uussee ooff ppaarraacceettaammooll ddeeccrreeaasseess lleevveellss ooff

tthhee aannttiiooxxiiddaanntt gglluuttaatthhiioonnee,, ffoouunndd iinn tthhee aaiirrwwaayyss aanndd tthhee nnoossee,, wwhhiicchh

pprrootteeccttss tthhee lluunnggss ffrroomm aaiirr ppoolllluuttiioonn aanndd ttoobbaaccccoo ssmmookkee aanndd tthhee

hhaarrmmffuull eeffffeeccttss ooff ffrreeee rraaddiiccaallss..

Simple steps to a healthier you…Take 2,000 more steps a day (about one mile or 15 minutes of

walking).

Eat 100 fewer calories (about a tablespoon of butter).

Skip the crust on apple pie. Save 100 calories. Leave 10 French

fries on your plate. Save 100 calories.

Have you been told that you should lose weight or get more

exercise? In most cases time is the factor. Why not park your

car away from the office and walk the rest of the distance.

Get a pooch. Dog owners walk an average of 300 minutes a

week, while people without dogs walk just 168. That’s a

difference of almost 600 calories.

By making these adjustments every day, 90% of

adults can avoid weight gain, and

some people may

even drop a few

pounds.

Rev Up the Metabolism…Doing the same workout routine can get to

be a habit. Not only should you alternate

your routine to prevent burnout or boredom,

but to give your body a surprise jolt.

BEAT THE RECESSION

Train to be a fully qualified nail technician

with Europes most complete nail care

company and start earning money now.

All nail products are stocked in our shop

for the Nail Technician who cares for

their clients.

Call 952 560 051 or 607 586 894 for moreinformation www.solnailsupplies.com

As well as our usual high classtreatments we are now able to offerFood Allergy Testing and PhotoDepilation by appointment We carefor your health as well as your beauty.English & Spanish spoken.

Tel 952 442 270 or 670 695 860C/ San Antonio, Centro Comercial San Juan, Arroyo de la Miel

Near Farmacia opposite train station

Arroyo’s Premier

English Salon

The Nail and Beauty Salon & Hair Styling

No 1 in Nail &

Beauty Treatments

Let us DELIVER to your salonHair, Beauty, Nails at Discounted PRICES

NAIL ART from only 2,00€

CALL 952 476 254 / 654 426 423 (Eng/Sp)

675 275 577

‘‘for all your salon services’’

FED UP OF THE CASH &CARRY ON YOUR DAY OFF?

YOU!can advertise

Herefor as little as €120

aannyy,, mmaannyy mmoooonnss aaggoo II ddeecciiddeedd ttoo ggeett mmyy tteeeetthh ddoonnee.. RReegguullaarr

rreeaaddeerrss wwiillll rreeccaallll tthhee ppiieeccee II wwrroottee iinn IIssssuuee 1155 aabboouutt wwaannttiinngg

ttoo hhaavvee ssoommee oorrtthhooddoonnttiicc wwoorrkk ddoonnee.. II hhaadd aallwwaayyss bbeeeenn

ccoonnsscciieennttiioouuss aabboouutt mmyy tteeeetthh aanndd ssoo mmoorree tthhaann hhaappppyy ttoo ggoo aass aa gguuiinneeaa

ppiigg ffoorr tthhiiss ttyyppee ooff wwoorrkk..

Well, nearly two and half years on, they are finished, and I can honestly

tell you that, if I ever had any fears of dentists, they are now well and truly

laid to rest! After months and months of appointments, fillings, crowns,

needles and ‘‘Open wide,’’ we are at the end of a very long, but

worthwhile journey. I am delighted with the results and can only

encourage you if you are thinking of having some corrective work done on

your choppers. It’s worth every penny.

It all began way, way back in early 2006, after getting into a conversation

with Dentist Kerstin Brorson at Clinica Europa Dental in Alhaurín el

Grande. Kerstin is very passionate about her work and, when it comes to

discussing us Brits, she is almost moved to tears by our unique disregard

for our teeth. Unlike most European countries, in particular the

Scandinavian ones, and of course the USA where having a good set of

teeth is a prerequisite to life, the British are generally the laziest when it

giveusa

M

comes to dental hygiene. Plus, as we all know, and I’m no different, when

we get to Spain we just put the important things like our health on a back

burner and go to the doctor or dentist only when we have to, if at all. Most

shocking are her stories of the state of some of the children’s teeth she

has seen, since she opened her practice in Alhaurín.

I have always brushed twice a day and have been blessed with strong

healthy teeth and so, when I went to see Kerstin in early 2006 after not

going to the dentist for about two and half years, all I needed was a good

clean and polish. However - and it was a big however for me -

aesthetically, unlike my wife, I didn’t have the most attractive set of teeth.

I had had to wear a brace at school age but unfortunately it wasn’t a fixed

brace so I could remove it when I wanted, so what I used to do was wear

it at night when I was in bed, and then take it out on the way to school for

the obvious reason of avoiding mickey taking. Lesson one, if your child

needs a brace, make it a fixed one; don’t give them a choice like I had.

As a result of not wearing my brace all the time, I ended up with crooked

front teeth, but later on had two crowns courtesy of the NHS. Also my

bottom teeth were overcrowded and were quite twisted and crooked plus

they were not the best shade of white. I was and still am not ashamed or

bothered about admitting that I would like a nice set of straight white

teeth, and most people I think would want the same. So I went for it and,

as already stated, I was the guinea pig.

First of all I had a clean and polish, and then the five back fillings I had

were replaced with more attractive white fillings. This work was done over

a couple of weeks and then, for the next two years, apart from check ups

for cleaning, that was the end of Kirsten’s work. For the next two years I

was with Dr Joachim Stickel of Arco Ideal in Marbella. For the kind of

corrective work I needed, the services of an orthodontist were required.

So let’s have a recap of Dr Stickel’s initial examination and eventual

recommendations. My problems were as follows: firstly I had a cross bite,

which generally means that my top teeth didn’t line up properly with my

bottom teeth. Also my top set were not as wide as my bottom set, so

when I chewed I did so all over the place. In fact, from Kirsten’s original

examination at Clinica Europa Dental in Alhaurín el Grande, most of my

chewing was done at the back of my jaw where my wisdom teeth are,

because there were only a few places in my mouth where my top and

bottom set actually met when closed. As a result my wisdom teeth were

quite worn.

What is cross bite?In a ‘normal’ jaw structure, the teeth of the upper jaw are slightly outside

the lower jaw. However there are conditions where the overlap is

excessive (overbite), and those where the lower jaw extends beyond the

upper jaw (under bite). Cross bite is yet another condition of the teeth

where the position of one or more teeth is reversed. The condition is

usually genetic, but can often also be caused by an unusual development

of the teeth or jaws. Other causes can be prolonged thumb sucking or

severe tongue thrusting (I did neither of these) which deforms the palate

and causes the teeth to grow crooked, resulting in a cross bite condition.

Crowded teeth and damaged jaws with missing teeth also result in a cross

bite. The situation is not self correcting and, as the teeth grow, the

alignment will never correct itself, so there is no point in waiting and

hoping that the problem will sort itself out. The only option is corrective

work. My bottom set were overcrowded and, over the years, had slowly

but surely bunched up and got more and more

crooked: ‘‘Like tombstones,’’ someone once said,

blunt but probably accurate! As I wrote in the

original article, the work I needed doing was not

just aesthetic; but in later life I would have had >>

ARCH WIRES

CERAMIC BRACES

IN THE BEGINNING

IN THE BEGINNING

>> costaLIFESTYLE

problems with the joints in my upper jaw (ie up by my ears) if I didn’t have

this cross bite problem sorted out. Many people have a cross bite, and it

is better dealt with as children when it has been identified, though it can

be corrected in later life. Adults can be treated at any age, as long as

their gums and bone holding the teeth are healthy.

TREATMENT:HHeerree iiss aa bbrreeaakkddoowwnn ooff hhooww iitt wwoorrkkss aanndd tthhee pprroocceedduurree::

I needed braces top and bottom to level out my teeth and then straighten

them. This should have taken approximately 18 months but it turned out

to be just on two years, which was fine because it’s better to get it right

than to fall at the last. The other thing I needed was a plate that sits in

the roof of the mouth and has ‘legs’ that connect two brackets on each

side of the mouth to two teeth. This is the gruesome bit. Every day I had

to insert what can only be described as a small screwdriver into a small

hole in the middle of the plate and make a quarter turn. This expands

the plate and causes bone to grow, which in turn widens the jaw. The

braces at the front make sure the teeth move slightly backwards as the

jaw widens, otherwise gaps will develop, obviously. After the plate was

removed, which was after approximately four months, I had gained 11

millimetres in width. How amazing is that?! Looking back on the whole

treatment I have to be honest and say that the plate was the most

uncomfortable part.

The braces:Braces include brackets, which are bonded directly to the tooth or

sometimes attached to a band placed on a molar tooth, and ‘arch wires’

that connect all the brackets. Unlike what most people think, it is the

arch wire that does all the work: the brackets merely serve as handles!

The wires use a steadily gentle pressure to move the teeth into their

proper positions. Much like moving a stick through sand, as the tooth

moves, bone gives way on one side and fills in on the other side. It is truly

amazing how it works.

The braces are put on:The dental assistant or orthodontist dries off the teeth and applies

‘etchant’ to them. This tastes like, well I don’t know what it tastes like,

but it’s vile. The etchant prepares the surface of the teeth for the

bonding ‘cement’ that secures the brackets. The brackets are placed on

the teeth and a blue, high intensity, plasma light is then quickly applied

to the surface of the bracket to set the bond. The wire (arch wire) is

placed through the brackets. Little rubber bands are placed on the

brackets. This is what holds the wire to them and creates a feeling of

pressure.

What does it feel like?At first, you feel an unusual pressure on your teeth. At first, feeling the

braces underneath your lips is a strange sensation. After a couple of

weeks I found that I barely noticed it, but I have to be honest that at first

I did think, ‘‘What have I done?’’ as it was very uncomfortable. I stuck

to soft foods for the first week or two: nothing crunchy or hard, nothing

large or difficult to bite and chew. The first day, it didn’t hurt too much.

The second and third days, it felt like somebody had hit me in the teeth

with a cricket ball! At first I was not able to eat certain foods like tortilla

chips and crisps, and crunchy foods like biscuits were a nightmare. I also

had a problem with some meats. The metal hooks on the brackets hurt

a little so I just chewed slowly and carefully until I got used to them.

After the braces were eventually removed, it was back to Kirsten for the

final leg of the treatment, which was to clean, polish and bleach my teeth

and then finish off with three new crowns at the top. The order of work

was clean and polish, and then bleaching. This needs to happen first so

that, when you get to the shade of white you want, the crowns will be

matched up the same. The crowns I have are porcelain which means

they don't discolour, which is great because in the future all I will need to

do when my teeth discolour again is have them bleached back to the

original colour to match my crowns.

As with many things in life the time has flown, and I can’t believe it was

over two and a half years ago when this all began. But now it is all done

it seems to have gone so quickly.

I have two retainers that I must wear at night for the next year or so to

keep everything in place. I am absolutely delighted with the results. I

have not had any of my teeth removed and have had no bridging and no

veneers. Apart from the three crowns at the top they are all my own

teeth, and in my opinion look straight, white and natural. My cross bite

has gone and my teeth now match up top and bottom.

It was hard at times, especially towards the end when we were over time,

and every month at my appointment I heard the words, ‘‘One more

month.’’ But, as I said earlier, it was right to wait until the job was done

properly, and a little extra time didn’t hurt that much. I feel more

confident now with my smiling and hopefully my wife won’t call me

miserable any more!! I would like to thank Kirsten of Clinica Europa

Dental in Alhaurín el Grande and Joachim Stickel of Arco

Ideal in Marbella for a great job and a lot of patience.

EXPANSION PLATE FINAL SMILE

AP535: End terraced village house in the prosperous village ofCarratraca which has bars, restaurants and a 5 star spa Hotel. Theproperty is on 2 levels. The ground floor has a lounge with chimney,bedroom, bathroom and kitchen with a patio of 30m2 which has astoreroom. The upper level has 2 bedrooms, both have balconies.There is an external staircase that leads to an upper terrace. 110m2

constructed. This property is located in a quiet residential street withstunning views and good access. Mains water and electricity. Thisproperty needs some modernisation but when completed would offer agood family home in an up and coming area of the Guadalhorce Valley.

PRICE: 157,500€€

AP363: Recently builtapartment situated in thecentre of Alora withinwalking distance to allshops and amenities. Thereis 50m2 of living space with abathroom, open planlounge/kitchen/bedroom.This property is being soldfully furnished. Water andelectricity are connected.This property offersfantastic value for moneyand has great rentalpotential due to its verycentral location. Don’t missout on this opportunity!

PRICE: 58,850€€

tel: 952 498 454mobile: 609 454 409

enquiries@aloraproperties.comwww.aloraproperties.com

Plaza Fuente Arriba s/nAlora

specializing in

FincasCountry VillasTownhouses

CortijosRuinsPlots

AP352: A nice country villa located on the outskirts of Alorabeing sold with 13,000m2 of land. The property itself offers 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a lounge with fireplace, kitchen anda dining room. 100m2 built. There is also an unfinished 31m2

almacen which would be ideal for visiting family or as arental property. The villa has a swimming pool and coveredseating area. Located only 200 metres from the main road itoffers good and easy access. There are 2 wells and mainselectricity. This is offered at a great price for a quick sale.PRICE: 250,000€€

Studio apartments in the centre of town

only 300 Euros5 bed villa in the country with lovely gardens and pool very private and fullyfurnished 1,500 Euros3 bed roomed town house, immaculate condition luxury kitchen. 600 Euros2 bed roomed apartment in the centre of town fully furnished, 450 Euros4 bed roomed villa in the country lovely area with pool. 1,200 Euros2 bed roomed country property 750 EurosOffices to let only 300 Euros, locals/shops from 900 EurosIf you have a specific request for a property or

budget please do not hesitate to call us, we can

help.

AP534: Rarely available is this detached village house on one levelclose to Alora. This property is within walking distance to allamenities, train station, shops, bars and restaurants. The houseoffers a lounge, separate dining room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms and abathroom. There is a very attractive patio with guest accommodationthat offers 1 bedroom, bathroom and a laundry room. There is aterrace to the front which is 30x4m together with a garage of thesame dimensions. There is a small easily maintained garden withfruit trees and stunning views. 185m2 constructed with land of 630m2

There is air con, mains water, electricity, telephone, Internet access,satellite tv and is also being sold partially furnished. PRICE: 299,000€€

Swimming Pools S.L.Est. on the Costa del Sol for over 20 yrs

Easy payment terms now available forHeat Pumps � Automatic CoversPool Construction & Renovation

Professional Pool MaintenanceFrom as little as 65€ per month

Coloured Underwater Light Shows - only 40€

Luxury Pool Chairs & LilosChemicals � Equipment � Accessories

Brilliant pool toys and games

Friendly free advice always available

Open 8am to 4pm � Tel 952 591 053www.splashmijas.moonfruit.com

splashpools@electronbox.netWe are situated at the entrance to

Urb. Dona Pilar, next to the Octagon Bar& just off the Careterra de Mijas

RESTORED CORTIJO WITH GUEST COTTAGE

& SWIMMING POOL - MONTEFRIO, GRANADA� Beautifully restored, tradtionalcortijo with 5 double bedrooms plusseperate 3 bedroom cottage andswimming pool. - Well presentedthroughout with lots of character andmany original features.

� MAINHOUSE: 5 Double bedrooms (some withbeamed ceilings), Fitted & tiledbathrooms,Lounge hasfireplace with logburner installed,

& Andalucian style kitchen / diner.

� COTTAGE: 3 Double bedrooms (2 withpatio doors to gardens & pool area),Lounge has fireplace with log burnerinstalled, Fitted & tiled bathroom. Stonefloors throughout.

� OUTBUILDINGS: Second fitted & tiledkitchen / diner with fireplace, Pool sidefitted & tiled bathroom, Plus 3

outbuildingswhich couldconvert forfurtheraccommodation /workshop /garage etc.

� OUTSIDE: Swimming pool with terrace area, flat fencedgardens with numerous fruit trees (including fig, olive & nispero),

shaded courtyard area, private entrancewith double gates, road access.

� POSITION: Peaceful,coutryside locationwith country &mountain views

Offers around: 169,000 €

Phone: 655 552 4 46

www.acefm. in fo

AAss aa ffoorreeiiggnneerr,, lliivviinngg iinn MMiijjaass PPuueebblloo,, II aamm vveerryy iimmpprreesssseedd bbyy

tthhee wwaayy tthhee SSppaanniisshh ppuutt aa lloott ooff eeffffoorrtt iinnttoo ddeeccoorraattiioonnss aanndd

ddeessiiggnn.. AAss II ssaaiidd iinn mmyy llaasstt aarrttiiccllee aabboouutt ccoolloouurrss,, mmaayybbee yyoouu ddoonn''tt

tthhiinnkk aabboouutt iitt,, bbuutt yyoouu aarree ssuurrrroouunnddeedd bbyy aallll kkiinnddss ooff ccoolloouurrss aanndd

sshhaaddeess wwhheerreevveerr yyoouu ggoo.. IItt iiss mmoorree oorr lleessss tthhee ssaammee wwiitthh tthhee

SSppaanniisshh ddeessiiggnn aanndd ddeeccoorraattiioonnss…… aatt lleeaasstt iiff yyoouu hhaavvee tthhee ffoorrttuunnee

ttoo lliivvee iinn aa ttrraaddiittiioonnaall ppuueebblloo aass II ddoo.. WWee ffrroomm uupp nnoorrtthh hhaavvee lloosstt

oouurr ttoouucchh ffoorr tthhaatt lliittttllee eexxttrraa aa lloonngg ttiimmee aaggoo:: eevveerryytthhiinngg sshhoouulldd bbee

aass eeffffiicciieenntt aanndd cchheeaapp aass ppoossssiibbllee;; tthheerree iiss nnoo rroooomm ffoorr iinndduullggiinngg

iinn ddeeccoorraattiioonn aanndd aaddoorrnnmmeenntt jjuusstt ffoorr tthhee ssaakkee ooff iitt..

AA

WWrriitttteenn bbyy

AAnnnniikkaa JJoonnssssoonnBBLLOONNDD ooff SSccaannddiinnaavviiaa

Here in Spain they still, it seems to me, take a lot of pride in doing just

that. They are very proud about their houses and their village. You must

have noticed how carefully they clean, not only the inside of their

houses, but also the outside. It’s not only that they wash outside their

houses every morning; it’s also the way they keep their houses in order.

It’s a delight to see when the Spanish women whitewash the front of

their precious house. I have noticed the line where the white paint on

the wall meets the surface of the ‘‘calle’’ is very, very important. Some

of them even use the old trick to paint a dark grey colour next to the

white just so that the white looks even whiter. (It’s always the women

who are doing the whitewash; it’s obviously too important a job to let the

men do it.)

A very traditional feature in Spain are the grilles in the windows which

come in all kinds of shapes. The reason why they were there in the first

place was for security at a time when they didn’t have any glass

in the windows. Today they are, of course, still there for

security, but the main reason is as a decoration. And what

would a typical Spanish house look like without them? If you

want to have a special design made for yourself, there are

many small companies who can help you, and it’s not very

expensive. What about having the emblem of your favorite

football club or why not the name of your loved one? There is

basically no restriction on what you could do. They are mostly

painted black though any colour is of course possible, even

though I think black is the best choice most of the time.

Another very traditionally Spanish decoration are their tiles. They

come in any colour or shape. They are masters on using them in all

kinds of features and this includes the roof tiles. If you look up at

the roof of a house you will see that they have a very typical way of

mixing the tiles with cement. They fill every hole at the front with

cement and paint it white. It does look very charming.

The roof tiles themselves, specifically if they are old, look great, for

example as a down or up-lighter on your wall, both outside or inside. It

immediately gives you that rustic, traditional and cosy atmosphere, and

it’s very cheap.

You see tiles on walls, on floors, patios,

swimming pools etc; you see them

basically everywhere. They are not only

beautiful but also very practical: easy to

clean, water and stain resistant and help

with keeping the house cool. There are

so many different kinds of tiles to choose

from that it could sometimes feel like a

daunting task to choose the right ones.

It is an important choice. For example

the wrong tiles could absolutely ruin your

new bathroom; the right choice will turn

it into a delight. I suggest that you

decide what kind of style you want before

you even enter the shop, modern sleek,

Spanish rustic or whatever your taste is.

Try to focus on that when you go to the

tile shop or you are in for a long haul, I

promise you. (I am saying this because I

know how hard it is not to look at all the

gorgeous tiles.) Ask the assistant

immediately which tiles are for floors and

which ones are for walls. It will save you

a lot of time knowing this in advance or

you could end up, after you have made

your choice, that that specific tile is

unsuitable for your floor and you have to start all over again.

Now, having said all this, I could as well tell you the total opposite. This

is what I do from time to time myself: just walk in to a tile shop. Wander

around with no specific idea in mind and I can promise you that you will

leave with lots of new ideas. And we live in Spain don’t we, and in Spain

time is NOT money.

This article is not so much about giving you ideas of design and

decoration but more about reminding you of all the beauty around you.

I will finish off by showing you some pictures of how you can decorate

and decorate beautifully with no money at all. In the Barrio Santana in

Mijas Pueblo they've put in a lot of effort to decorate with recycled

material. Not only does it look wonderful, but it also teaches the

children to take care of what's already here and the possibility to

transform it in to something beautiful.

Here are a few examples:

This year’s Christmas tree was decorated with used plastic

water bottles, cut to serpentines and painted in different

colours.

At the ‘verbena’ the roof was made out of a fish net with

bunches of grapes made of the inner rolls of toilet paper and

then painted green and lilac.

A shading ‘roof’ outside one of the restaurants was also made

of old plastic water bottles.

Unfortunately I don’t have a picture to show you of two young

girls dressed up as princesses in white. They looked

absolutely gorgeous. And their clothes were all

made of old BUBBLE WRAP!!!

So, keep your eyes

open when you walk

around and you

are in for a lot of

nice surprises.

FO

RTRESS SECURITY SPAINS.L.

ESTABLISHED 1987

All steelwork, grills, gates, fences, stairways.Balconies, scissor gates, garage doors,

security blinds (manual/automatic)Persianas, toldos, security doors

Garage doors up and over - sectionalGate automation systems for all requirements

Garage door motorsAluminium windows and doors

Air conditioning - singles - splits-ducting All major credit cards taken

Phone 952 931 128 or 952 933 234Email fortress@telefonica.net

www.fortresssecurityspain.com

YOU!can advertise

Herefor as little as €120

The professional company with

the personal touch for...

...all aspects of selling or renting

your property �� Est. 1997

PUEBLO LOPEZ / 2012freAttractive 2 bed townhouse,

with lots of character and

located in very popular area of

Fuengirola, very close to all

public transport and shopping.

5 minute walk to beach. this

property has 2 bedrooms and

1.5 bathrooms, with lounge

diner, with a beautiful built in

fireplace. has a nice quiet

garden with patio area.

€€ 260,000

29 C/ ESPANA, 29640 FUENGIROLA, MÁLAGA (same street as the main post office)

TEL: (+34) 952 479 749 · FAX: 952 478 662Website: www.fuengirolarealestate.com �� E-mail: carol@fuengirolarealestate.com

CERROS DEL AGUILLA / 2000freA well maintained independent villa, 110m ² in beautiful condition,situated in the community of Cerros de Aguilla. This 3 bedroomreformed villa comprises of lounge with fireplace, separate diningroom, fitted kitchen, en suite bathroom. Built on a 890m² lot size withfruit trees, a number of terraces, BBQ area, covered patios and privatepool.

€€ 395,000

FUENGIROLA SEAFRONT 1929freOFFERS INVITED An extremely well maintained 3 bedroom, 2bathroom apartment of 126m² including the terrace, overlooking thebeach with superb sea views. The property also comprises of aspacious lounge diner with large south facing terrace, fully fitted kitchenwith utility room. Outside there is a private parking space. Sold partlyfurnished.

€€ 320,000

Mijas Costa / 1974freA top floor (2nd) 2 bedroom apartment of 80m² with lovely seaviews. This property which is in need of renovation also comprisesof a lounge diner with south facing terrace, fitted kitchen withbreakfast bar and a bathroom. Outside is a communal pool withwell kept gardens & picnic area. Underground parking. Only 2minutes walk to the beach. No lift.

€€ 165,000

EL FARO / 2010freA superb penthouse apartment with large terraces to the front and backshowing spectacular views of the sea and surrounding countryside andall day sun. This atico comprises of 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms withunderfloor heating , fully fitted kitchen, lounge/dining area. Theapartment is 89m² with terraces of 60m². There is a communal pool andtropical gardens. Car parking space and it sold fully furnished.

€€ 180,000

URG

ENT

SALE

REDUCED

URG

ENT

SALE

PENTHOUSE

PROPERTY

OF THE MONTH

La Cala Hills / 2001 freFantastic, ready to move in, set in a newer well maintained complex withviews of the mountains and golf course. Comprising of a large lounge/diner,terrace, fully fitted kitchen with all appliances inc. an American fridge/freezer,large master bedroom with en suite bathroom, guest bedroom andbathroom. The apartment is recently decorated and sold with all furniture inc.flat screen TV and grand piano. Parking space and storage room.

€€ 220,000

>>

eemmeenniisscceenntt ooff tthhee BBaannkkiinngg IInndduussttrryy TTuurrmmooiill ooff OOccttoobbeerr 11992266,,

FFiinnaanncciiaall mmaarrkkeettss ttuummbblleedd iinn EEuurrooppee aanndd NNoorrtthh AAmmeerriiccaa

ffoolllloowwiinngg ‘‘BBllaacckk SSuunnddaayy’’ ffoorr tthhee UUSS iinnvveessttmmeenntt bbaannkkiinngg

iinndduussttrryy iinn wwhhiicchh tthhee tthhiirrdd--llaarrggeesstt iinnvveessttmmeenntt bbaannkk,, MMeerrrriillll

LLyynncchh,, wwaass ssoolldd ooffff ttoo BBaannkk ooff AAmmeerriiccaa ffoorr wwhhaatt wwaass wwiiddeellyy

sseeeenn aass aa bbaarrggaaiinn pprriiccee aanndd tthhee ffoouurrtthh llaarrggeesstt,, LLeehhmmaann BBrrootthheerrss,, sslliidd iinnttoo

bbaannkkrruuppttccyy aafftteerr tthhee UUSS aauutthhoorriittiieess rreeffuusseedd ttoo bbaacckk aa ppootteennttiiaall iinndduussttrryy

rreessccuuee wwiitthh ppuubblliicc mmoonneeyy..

Coming only a few weeks after the US government sorted out two of the

country’s giant mortgage providers, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, the

eclipse of Merrill Lynch and Lehman Bros., six months after the demise of

Bear Stearns, brought home to market participants worldwide that the

fallout from the collapse of the sub-prime US mortgage market, the credit

squeeze and the problems in determining the value of ‘toxic’ real estate-

backed securities is far from over and in fact leaves one wondering ‘who

will be next’?

The hedge fund industry, already battered by falling financial markets and

tighter restrictions on borrowing, faces further uncertainty with the

application for bankruptcy protection by Lehman and the acquisition of

Merrill, both significant prime brokerage players, and continuing worries

about the continued viability of the business model of the top remaining

independent players, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley.

The market rout began in Asia, where the Taiwan stock market index fell

4 per cent, Singapore and India by 3.3 per cent and Australia by 1.8 per

cent. Share prices suffered similar falls in Europe, with the UK’s

benchmark FTSE 100 index closing the day down 3.92 per cent, while

France’s Cac 40 fell 3.78 per cent and Germany's Dax declined by 2.74

per cent.

In the US, the Dow Jones ended the day down 4.4 per cent after the

largest one-day fall since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, while

the broader-based S&P 500 declined by 4.7 per cent and the Nasdaq

Composite index by 3.6 per cent.

Up until the early hours of Saturday 13th September, there were hopes

that Lehman might have been rescued, with Bank of America and UK-

based Barclays reportedly in talks over a bid, but the optimism

evaporated on Sunday morning as North-Carolina-based Bank of America

struck a deal instead with Merrill Lynch, while Barclays withdrew

once it became evident it could not obtain shareholders'

approval in time.

Merrill Lynch was acquired in an all-share

transaction valuing the largest US brokerage

firm at USD50bn. The price offered by Bank of

America of USD29 a share was almost USD12 a

share higher than Friday’s closing price, but less

than half of its peak

share price over the

past 12 months.

Lehman Brothers

H o l d i n g s

announced it

would file a

petition under

Chapter 11

of the US

Bankruptcy Code with the United States Bankruptcy Court for the

Southern District of New York. The filing does not affect the investment

bank's broker-dealer subsidiaries nor its investment management

subsidiary, Neuberger Berman, which was up for sale along with the rest

of Lehman’s investment management operations, including its

substantial private equity business.

The implications of Lehman’s Chapter 11 filing are not yet clear for hedge

fund clients of the firm's Capital Markets Prime Services business, which

employs more than 600 professionals in the US, Europe, Middle East and

Asia-Pacific region, and which provides financing, fixed income and equity

prime brokerage, futures, research and strategic transactions. Some of

the non affected business divisions of Lehmans will undoubtedly attract

interest from the likes of Mitsubishi or Nomura so watch this space.

The day saw new moves by the authorities on both sides of the Atlantic as

well as industry members to shore up the financial sector. The US Federal

Reserve made it easier for financial institutions to obtain emergency

liquidity, extending the range of securities they can use to obtain loans to

include equities, and said it would increase the volume of Treasury

securities it auctions under one of its regular lending programmes.

The Bank of England has injected GBP5bn into short-term money

markets, while the European Central Bank provided EUR30bn in fresh

liquidity. Meanwhile 10 of the world's largest banks agreed to establish a

USD70 billion emergency fund, of which any of them may access up to

one-third.

Meanwhile troubled insurer American International Group, has been

shored up by the US Federal Reserve for USD40bn in short-term

financing. Bank of America's acquisition of Merrill Lynch, although

hailed as a potential ‘steal’ by market analysts, was greeted by a 23 per

cent fall in its share price by the close. In the UK, the country’s biggest

mortgage bank HBOS fell as far as 33 per cent on fears that it might face

higher mortgage write-downs and higher wholesale borrowing costs

before recovering to finish down 17 per cent.

So what affect does all that have on us here in Spain? To

find out lets have a look at the real economic

figures published somewhat reluctantly

by the government recently.

The Spanish government has played

an active role in trying to offset the

impact of the adjustment of the

housing market on the economy.

Since the beginning of the year, we have had three fiscal packages. These

are probably the main reason why the economy has not contracted yet.

According to the last GDP report, the private sector economy contracted

TThhee HHoouussee DDooccttoorr

R

WWhhaatt HHaappppeenneedd OOnn BBllaacckk SSuunnddaayy,, aanndd hhoowwddooeess tthhaatt aaffffeecctt uuss.. ((1144tthh SSeepptteemmbbeerr 22000088))bbyy AAlleexx NNiiccooll,, NNuummeerroo UUnnoo SS..CC..

in Q2, but the government kept overall growth (just) in positive territory.

Throughout the previous packages, El Presidente Zapatero consistently

highlighted the need to boost the rental market, and this policy is

beginning to take more concrete form (excuse the pun). In order to revive

investors’ appetite in the rental market, Zapatero announced recently

the approval of tax breaks for quoted real estate investment companies.

Also announced was a new EUR3bn credit line from ICO (a government

credit-granting body) to allow real estate developers to exchange their

property-linked loans for new loans on the condition that they commit to

making unsold new homes available for rent within a specific amount of

time.

The latter policy is the latest example of a direct credit injection into a

specific sector of the Spanish economy. In earlier packages, new multi-

billion euro credit facilities were made available for social housing

developments and for small and medium-sized firms. The extension of

those facilities into 2009 and 2010 has already been announced. The

government yesterday announced that the new EUR3bn facility (0.2-

0.3% of GDP) might also increase next year.

I view positively these measures aimed at improving the liquidity of

particularly vulnerable firms. These firms are the Achilles’ heel of Spain’s

real economy at the moment. It won’t prevent firms from failing - EUR3bn

is less than 1% of total loans outstanding to real estate and construction

firms; and it won’t in our opinion prevent a contraction of GDP in Q3 and

Q4'08 -- but if the facility continues to grow then at the margin should

help soften the blow to the economy.

Despite these new measures -- which included a 4% increase in

pensions -- Finance Minister Solbes is trying to keep tight control over the

overall budget position. Recently he announced that spending (ex

unemployment benefits) would rise no more than 3.5% in 2009

compared to the 5% rate agreed as recently as June. Nevertheless, we

continue to question whether such tight control can be maintained. The

government has cut its 2009 GDP forecast to 1%, but I see it closer to

zero. The cyclical drag on Spain’s deficit is building momentum.

The Spanish banks have now become a hot house for the ‘Jitters’ as

branches are tightening their lending belts beyond recognition, one well

known high street lender who used to have a local sign off limit of €200k

now can barely sign off a car loan without first consulting the central risk

dept in Madrid.

The first list of ‘reposessions’ has hit the desks of estate agents

that are poised once again to make hay for their wealthier

clients at the cost of somebody elses fiscal

demise. For the first time since 1994 we

see the institutional investors from

the US here in droves picking away

at the carcasses of fallen giants of

Spanish industry. Hotels with

valuations of €70m to €100m are

now changing hands for as little as

€15m. The man in the street is struggling to make ends meet as the cost

of borrowing is escalating out of control, whilst at the same time the cash

rich people are picking up the bargains of the century.

So sit tight, don’t panic winter is approaching and things can only get

better. On a serious note though if you are finding it difficult seek

professional advise and don’t ignore the problem. Do not under any

circumstances bury your head in the sand, the problem will not go away.

costaHOMES >>

costalife 61

>> costaHOMES

62 costalife

ho offers mortgages?Mortgages are available from mostHigh street Spanish banks and saving

banks[Caja] and International lenders inGibraltar.

Most Developers will have a loan scheme inplace on ‘off-plan’ purchases, but you need tobe aware that these are only available oncompletion and will not cover any stagepayments i.e. normally 30% deposit.Resale properties are also sometimes offeredfor sale with a mortgage in place that can beeasily transferred.

What is the cost of arranging amortgage?The cost of a Spanish mortgage varies greatlyfrom lender to lender and also from broker tobroker. Generally you should allow between 2-3% of the purchase price of the property.

Why is it so expensive?The up-front costs on a Spanish loan are muchhigher than in the UK for a number of reasons.

Firstly the Bank itself will charge anarrangement fee ranging from .75% - 2% of theloan depending on the loan to value and thecomplexity. The higher fees are generallycharged for ‘non-status’ lending or bridgingfinance and for a normal mortgage you shouldnot pay more than 1.25%

There is also mortgage tax of 1% of the valueof the loan and 1% of the interest due to beaccrued over the term of the loan e.g. on a loanof €100,000 over 25 years at 3.5% the totalinterest payable is approx. €50,990 makingthe tax payable €1000 + €509.90

As a Spanish mortgage is attached to theproperty and not the owner it has its own titledeed. You will have to pay for the deed to beproduced and also land registry and notaryfees. The cost of this varies from area to areaand on the value of the property.

Valuation fees vary depending on the value ofthe property and the valuation company butstart at about €200 for a small apartment.

Lastly you have the services of a mortgagebroker and again this can vary tremendously.Some charge nothing and just rely on thecommission the banks pay them whilst otherscharge up to 1.5% of the loan. It isrecommended that a broker is used if incomeis hard to prove as they will know which lendersare the most flexible and can save valuabletime.

The break-even point for a Spanish loan asopposed to a UK loan or remortgage isapproximately 5 years, so if you areconsidering paying the loan off in full beforethat time you need to think long and hardabout which way to proceed as it may becheaper to raise the funds at home.

How much can I borrow?As general guide a non resident will be able toborrow 70%-80% of the valuation of a property,whilst residents can borrow up to 100% of thevaluation. The key to obtaining the maximummortgage offer is in achieving the maximumvaluation, which is the job of the Tasador[valuer]. Most Banks will accept valuationsfrom 1 or 2 Tasadors whilst a few employ theirown.

Your income is the other determining factorand the monthly repayments have to becovered by up to 40% of your NET salary, butmost banks will only accept 35%

Land purchase is limited to 60% of valuation bymost lenders, as is lending on ‘Finca Rustica’property.

If you already own land and want to build thenconstruction loans are an option. The bank willlend up to 70% of the projected completedvalue which in most cases will be more thanenough to cover 100% of the build cost.

Which Currency shouldI borrow in?Mortgages are available in most majorcurrencies. You should be aware that if youborrow in a currency that does not have a fixedvalue against the euro, currency fluctuationscould make your borrowing more expensive orless expensive depending on whether yourchosen currency weakens or strengthensagainst the euro.

What Interest rate will I pay?Interest rates again will depend on thecurrency you choose to borrow. Interest ratesfor mortgages in euros are based on theEuropean Inter Bank Overnight Rate, orEURIBOR for short, which has largely takeoverfrom the older MIBOR. The lenders rate will be

a margin over EURIBOR generally EURIBOR+0.75% to 1.5% but individual circumstancescan dictate higher or lower rates. Fixed ratemortgages are available at slightly higherinterest rates. Some lenders offer a lower Startup interest rates for the first year or partinterest only mortgages, ideally suited forfunding new construction.

How often will interest rates bereviewed?Usually once a year, fixed rate mortgages areavailable at higher interest rates.

What is the maximum repaymentperiod?Mostly commonly, 15 or 20 years, but up to35 years can be arranged.

What information will the bankrequire:Banks vary in the amount of information thatthey require, but in general the more you canprovide the easier the loan is to procure. Ideallythe following would be good

If you are employed:Last 3 wage /salary slips.Latest P60.Last 6 months bank statements.Reference letter from your employer confirmingdate of employment, proof of income andposition and prospects within the companyBank reference (The lender may have to applyfor this themselves depending on who youbank with)Some lenders require an experion credit checkto be carried outCopy of passport/residencia.

If you are self employed:Last 2 years tax returns.Copies of accounts for the last 2/3 yearsChartered accountants copy report, confirmingyour annual personal drawings from thecompanyCopy of your passport/residencia6 months personal bank statementsBank reference letter

You will also need:In relation to a specific property, the notasimple from the property registry, offer letter orsales purchase contract.

If you are applying for a construction loan thenyou must provide the Escritura for the land. Theplans stamped by the College of Architects anda 10 year building guarantee.

An NIE number from the local police station,which you or your lawyer can arrange.

You will also need to open a Spanish bankaccount and it is advisable to use the samebank as your mortgage is with.

Obtaining a MortgageIn SpainW

For all yourinsurance needs,

do it the right way.

Motor insurance for UK

and Spanish plates, home and contents, health

insurance, pet, travel and commercial insurance.

Established on the coast for over 7 years

thousands of satisfied customers

Situated Centro Comercial Las

Postas, Local 9, Sitio de Calahonda

or arrange cover by calling 952934 963 or go on line at

www.rightwaysl.com.

Right Way Insurance ...

insuring you, your

family and your

belongings

the right way

The CompleteProperty Service

Package

Tel:952 832 656 Fax:952 832 717www.casacare.cominfo@casacare.com

Edificio Framire, Calle Alcornoque,Elviria, Marbella 29604

hhiiss iiss wwhhaatt mmyy nneeiigghhbboouurrss iinn tthhee ccaammppoo aarree ccaalllliinngg tthhee rraaiinn tthhaatt

hhaass jjuusstt ffaalllleenn ffrroomm tthhee hheeaavveennss.. YYeess,, aa ffuullll 4455 lliittrreess ppeerr ssqquuaarree

mmeettrree hhaass ffaalllleenn oonn oouurr ffiinnccaass iinn tthhee GGuuaaddaallhhoorrccee VVaalllleeyy!! IItt iiss

lliiqquuiidd ggoolldd ffoorr oolliivvee ggrroowweerrss bbeeccaauussee iitt ffaatttteennss uupp tthhee ccrroopp pprriioorr

ttoo tthhee ggrreeeenn oolliivvee hhaarrvveesstt,, ggiivviinngg jjuuiicciieerr ggrreeeenn oolliivveess ffoorr uuss ttoo

eennjjooyy aanndd bbiiggggeerr eeaarrnniinnggss ffoorr tthheemm.. BBlleesssseedd rreelliieeff ffoorr aallll!!

The cooler, damper conditions of autumn have brought a welcome

change from the unremitting heat of summer. During the summer

months, because I use little water, my own droughted garden tends to

lack colour, and it is only with the freshness of autumn that the plants

start to perk up. Even with the absence of rain, cooler night

temperatures and morning dews are beneficial. Plants and shrubs that

seemed half dead during the summer are making new growth and many

are now flowering. For me, autumn is a favourite season in Andalucía.

The autumn colours of further north and at higher altitudes in this

region are scarcely to be seen in my garden, and many of my plants

continue to flower throughout the winter, provided there is no frost.

I deliberately make use of plants that only come into flower as the nights

start to draw in and of bulbous plants that can push their shoots up

through the now softened earth. There are now unexpected blazes of

colour in corners which are only green or brown or green at other times

of the year. The change of season is an excellent tonic not only for the

gardener but also for wildlife rarely seen during the summer, but now

out and about as food becomes more abundant. For example there is

a healthy population of hedgehogs wandering about my garden after

dark, to the consternation of the dogs.

The cooler times of autumn are also for looking back and planning

ahead. Plants that were summer casualties can be replaced by some

that are more appropriate to the weather prevailing in our area, not

forgetting the possibility that next year may be as dry or drier than this

one.

In fact, our long, hot, rainless summers are the most important thing to

remember when planning a garden and choosing plants. With scarce

water we should plant less lavishly and abundantly than we might if

AArrttiiccllee && iimmaaggeess bbyy

SSiimmoonn HHiillll

TTTT

BBuuddddlleeiiaa BBllaacckk KKnniigghhtt

AA ffiinnee vvaarriieeggaatteedd ggrraassss ((MMiissccaanntthhuuss))

TTeeccoommaarriiaa ccaappeennssiiss

water were not a limited resource. Those with a guaranteed and

abundant water supply can, in many ways, continue to garden as they

would in more northern places and with the same mind set, even if the

plants are different. This allows us to achieve a lush subtropical look,

but there will be many casualties if the water fails!

Sadly, abundant water can often have negative effects on

Mediterranean plants, which rarely like to have their feet in water.

During a one-off irrigation this summer, when I had chosen not to use

the water that was available to me, pressure created a leak in a pipe.

Water poured onto the roots of some plants that require little or no

watering during the summer and sudden death was the result. Why

does this happen? In clay soils, too much water saturates the soil pores

which restricts the access of oxygen to the roots. Because the soil is

warm, the existing oxygen is rapidly respired by the roots themselves

and by the abundant soil micro organisms. Without further oxygen the

roots effectively suffocate and lose their ability to take up water, at which

point the leaves of the plants rapidly wilt and then die. Many a gardener

makes the mistake of thinking that this wilting means that the plant

needs water - and gives yet more water. A fatal mistake!

Many of the gardens in our part of Andalucía are on intractable sticky

clay, like concrete when dry and impossible when wet. These are the

soils most subject to the problems of water logging, because they are so

impermeable when wet. Lucky indeed are those few with gardens on

well-drained soils with little clay content! If your soil is heavy and sticky,

it is vital to improve the drainage and this is best done by digging in

loads of well rotted manure (available by the truckload inland) and

coarse sand if you can afford it. Now is a good time to do this, when the

soil is just sufficiently moist to be easily worked.

For me, gardening in Spain has brought tears and latterly joy. When I

was newly arrived and not being used to a Mediterranean climate, I

began to experiment and see what would or would not grow - the ‘Give

it a go, see what happens’ approach.

Clearly, plants adapted to Mediterranean climates could be expected to

do well, but they are often difficult to get. Digging up native plants is not

allowed and, in any case, rarely successful. Far too often, plants

available at local garden centres or other outlets along the coast are

those least suited to dry conditions. We must hope that the current

move to stock native or similar plants ((CCiissttuuss,, MMyyrrttllee etc)) will continue

and expand.

Some of you may have noticed that roundabouts in Coín have been

planted with grasses. Many wonderful ornamental grasses, native or

otherwise, do well in dry gardens in our region. Not everyone likes

them, but they can make a marvellous show, ruffled by the breeze or

glistening with the morning dew. Many are now widely available for sale.

What is now flowering in my garden in late September? At the back of

the border is cape honeysuckle ((TTeeccoommaarriiaa ccaappeennssiiss)) now covered in

brilliant scarlet flowers. This easy-going rambling shrub is great against

a wall or fence for support and needs little water. Nearby is a golden

yellow SSeennnnaa ccoorryymmbboossaa providing a fine contrast with the deep purple

BBuuddddlleeiiaa ddaavviiddiiii, which is now flowering again. Both these shrubs need

to be pruned back in spring; otherwise they get too tall and leggy. On a

smaller scale are some lovely autumn and winter flowering sub-shrubs

that are members of the Acanthus family. In flower now is BBaarrlleerriiaa

ccrriissttaattaa with bluish purple flowers that seems to do well in dry shade.

Barleria obtusa, the so-called bush violet, will soon come into flower.

This spreading low shrub is excellent value when smothered in clear

blue flowers and it is incredibly vigorous and drought tolerant.

A terrestrial bromeliad that is possibly a species of Dyckia, has, after six

years, suddenly produced a massive flower spike and the flowers should

open soon. At last I will find out what it really is!

Last but not least, I must mention once again the scarlet passion flower,

PPaassssiifflloorraa vviittiiffoolliiaa, now with a magnificent autumn flush of flowers.

Every garden should have one, so pester your garden centre!

Simon Hill can be contacted for advice or queries:

FINCAROSABLANCA@telefonica.net

costaHOMES >>

SSeennnnaa ccoorryymmbboossaa

OOlliivvee ttrreeeePPeennnniisseettuumm sspp..

BBaarrlleerriiaa ccrriissttaattaa

CAR622 Stunning Cortijo Cártama/Coín €€ 850,000Private yet not isolated, immaculate and beautifully reformed 2 storeycortijo with rustic features & modern fittings, striking main kitchen, 4large beds and 4 baths, 11,000m2 grounds with 260m2 built,magnificent terraces & views plus pool. Great access to Coin &Cartama & all amenities.Like this? The checkout ref ALA338 on www.casaymara.com

MIJ629 Sea Views from Mijas Costa €€ 850,000Large villa with guest accommodation on a superb plot of 3,000m2land & benefiting from sea views. Terraces galore plus pool andlandscaped gardens. Great access to the coast, Fuengirola andMijas plus all amenities. 4 beds, 3 baths and 3 kitchens - ideal forfamily, guests or even renting out. Like this? The checkout ref ALA320 on www.casaymara.com

ALA532 Country Home in Álora €€ 265,000New built wonderful 3 bed, 2 bath country home with privateswimming pool, automatic gated access, mains electricity, own welland great views. Access is fabulous just off a new tarmac road. Allyou need to do is a fit a kitchen and move in! Recently reduced.Like this? The checkout ref CAR415 on www.casaymara.com

CNN599 Coín €€ 650,000Luxury, stylish 4 bed villa with pool and separate 2 bedroom guest accommodation. Modern and largerooms with underfloor heating plus rustic features. Lovely internal patio, various terraces and garden plusgood views. 250m2 build with 800m2 land. Great access & walking distance to amenities. Garage plusprivate parking. A fabulous family home that is cosy and practical.

Like this? The checkout ref AEG476 on www.casaymara.com

Great Property

ALA508 - Álora €€ 395,000An amazingly restored country villa with separate guestaccommodation. 235m2 built set in 6,000m2 of land. Incredibleattention to detail, beautiful pool & terraces plus spectacular views. 5beds, 3 baths, inside & outside kitchens plus full services connectedincl: town water, landline telephone & mains electricity.Like this? The checkout ALA478 on our website

CNN634 Coín €€ 750,000An absolute must see luxury Villa with self contained guest accommodation built & fitted to the highestspecification possible! Here's just a taste - 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 2 quality fully fitted kitchens, diningroom, enormous lounge, huge 17.5m x 7.5m pool, mature landscaped gardens with fountain, outsidekitchen/BBQ, airzone aircon/centralised heating, marble floors, high ceilings, full security systems...

Like this? The checkout ref AEG516 on www.casaymara.com

Amazing Villa. Amazing Price

WWrriitttteenn bbyyEErrnnyy HHaarrrriissoonn

JONATHANJONATHAN

LIVINGSTONLIVINGSTON

SEAGULLSEAGULL

oo mmee,, sseeaagguullllssaarree aammoonnggsstt

tthhee mmoosstt ffaasscciinnaattiinngg bbiirrddss iinntthhee wwoorrlldd.. TThheeyy aarree ggrraacciioouuss iinn fflliigghhtt,,

iinntteelllliiggeenntt iinn tthheeiirr mmeetthhooddss ooff ccoommmmuunniiccaattiioonnaanndd aa ggrreeaatt ccoommppaanniioonn ttoo mmaannkkiinndd,, eevveenn iiff wwee ddoonn’’tt

aallwwaayyss aapppprreecciiaattee tthheeiirr rroollee..

My first interest in seagulls came in the early ’70s when Richard Bach’sbook about Jonathan Livingston Seagull came onto the market. Almost

40 years later it is still available today (Avon BooksISBN 0-380-01286) and a real must for anybody whowants a lovely bedtime story, not just for the kids butfor yourself as well.

In short, it tells the story of a seagull who wantsmore out of life than scampering for food during theday and going back to the same place every evening.Jonathan Livingston wants to fly higher than any otherseagull has ever done and, by pursuing his dream, is

TT

rejected by his parents and the whole flock until he finds like-mindedseagulls who take him under their wing.

Seagulls feed during the day in coastal areas and rivers. They arescavengers, cleaners of inter-tidal grounds. Born opportunists, they willeat anything they can lay their beaks on, including from dustbins andfood left outside restaurants. Occasionally they may even swoop downon your terrace and try to steal the food you have prepared for thebarbecue. Gulls practise kleptoparasitism in abundance, which meansthey don't hesitate to steal away prey already hunted and killed byanother animal, but their preference is fish, crustaceans and molluscs.Mussels and clams are carried in their beaks high into the sky and thendropped onto a hard surface or rocks to break open the shells, so theycan eat the soft insides.

Gulls are members of the Laridae family and there are more than 50species of them. The best known are the Herring gulls with orange feetand the California gulls with yellow feet. Their size is between that of apigeon and a black crow. They have long winged webbed feet as do allsea birds, and their colouring changes with the season from white to greyand black. At all times their belly is greyish black which provides themwith an excellent camouflage for catching fish. Telling the differencebetween males and females is only possible when you hold them in yourhand but, as with most animals, the female is usually smaller then themale.

Seagulls live many miles from their hunting grounds in areas far fromtheir predators, often on cliff tops or in the roof of abandoned barns.They can fly up to 35 miles an hour.

Their nests are made of grass, sticks and seaweed in whichthey care for their young, with attention and feeding sharedbetween the parents. Once a site has been chosen they will

return to it every year for as long as they live, which can be upto 15 years. The birds form one large family and every

member of the colony helps in the protection of the eggsand hatchlings.

Seagulls have one brood a year, no more than amaximum of three brown or blue speckled eggs,which will take around three weeks to hatch.The parents are very protective of their youngwho stay in the nest for a minimum of six weeksand can stay with their parents for as long as

six months. Their food is regurgitated for easyfeeding.

Once juveniles, they will stay under their parents’ wings and always flywith them, learning the skills of fishing and how to avoid predators fromthem. A young seagull will not grow into adulthood for another three tofour years, when he will reach his full colouring.

Their unique system allows them to drink both fresh and salt water. Saltwater, scooped up from the sea, doesn't do them any harm as they havea special pair of glands right above their eyes which filters the salt out ofthe water and flushes it out through openings in the bill.

When we talk about predators, there really aren’t that many. Theoccasional shark may catch a gull as can a falcon, an eagle or a hawk.Most threats are aimed at the eggs, mainly by snakes but, as is so oftenthe case, most of the harm that is being done comes from mankind. Notjust in Spain but in most tourist coastal areas in the world, indiscriminateconstruction of buildings and commercial centres means that the seagullis losing out on its habitat, and in the USA two species are already on theendangered list. Other threats come from pollution, climate change andbeing caught in fishing nets.

But the seagull himself can be a nuisance as well. They fly around yoursailing boat, the beach or your terrace, screeching their heads off andswooping low in threatening behaviour. A lot of gimmicks have beentried to chase them away, plastic owls and snakes being the favourites,but apparently the gulls quickly see through them.

At airports near the sea an automated bird control system called TOM500 can be used to scare birds away by sweeping along the runways andtheir surroundings using a greenlaser beam.

Look up in the skysometimes when you are in acoastal area. If you are lucky, youmay see a large moving cloud thatcan consist of 70 or 80 gulls. Gullsoaring is not unusual and happens mainlywhen a predator has been spotted. But, whoknows, maybe you'll be lucky enough to see a newJonathan Livingston Seagull being takenunder the wings of those whodream to fly higher than anyseagull before.

CuisineCosta

70 costalife

>> costaSTUFF

TOADS & SNAKES ON BROOMSTICKS

DDiiccee cchhiicckkeenn ffiilllleettss,, tthheenn aalltteerrnnaattee oonn wwooooddeenn sskkeewweerrss,, wwiitthhccoocckkttaaiill ssaauussaaggeess..

BBrruusshh wwiitthh aa mmiixxttuurree ooff hhoonneeyy aanndd DDiijjoonn mmuussttaarrdd,, sseeaassoonnwwiitthh ssaalltt aanndd ppeeppppeerr,, lleeaavvee ttoo mmaarriinnaattee iinn ffrriiddggee ffoorr 11 hhoouurr,,bbeeffoorree ccooookkiinngg,, iinn aa mmooddeerraattee oovveenn 118800ººcc,, ggaass mmaarrkk 44,, ffoorr2200 ttoo 2255 mmiinnuutteess..

PPrreeppaarree tthhee bbrroooommss ffrriillllss ttoo ggoo oonn yyoouurr ssttiicckkss,, bbyy ffoollddiinngg aalleennggtthh ooff bbrroowwnn ppaappeerr,, ssnniippppiinngg iinnttoo iitt,, ccuutt aa ssttrriipp aapppprrooxx.. 44ccmm lloonngg,, tthheenn wwrraapp aarroouunndd tthhee eenndd ooff tthhee sskkeewweerr,, aafftteerrccooookkiinngg,, sseeccuurree wwiitthh aa rruubbbbeerr bbaanndd,, oorr sseelllloottaappee..

CChhoooossee ssoommee sslliigghhttllyy oovvaall sshhaappeedd ppoottaattooeess,, bbaakkee iinn tthhee oovveennuunnttiill ssoofftt,, ccooooll,, ccuutt lleennggtthhwwaayyss..

SSccoooopp oouutt tthhee iinnssiiddeess,, ccaarreeffuullllyy lleeaavviinngg tthhee sskkiinn iinnttaacctt.. MMaasshh ttooggeetthheerr wwiitthh bbuutttteerr,, ccrreeaamm aanndd sseeaassoonniinngg..

SSppoooonn iitt bbaacckk iinnttoo tthhee eemmppttyy sshheellllss,, aadddd 22 ccuurrrraannttss ffoorr eeyyeess.. AAllllooww 3300 mmiinnuutteess ttoo rreehheeaatt rreeaaddyy ttoo sseerrvvee..

TThheessee ccaann bbee mmaaddee tthhee ddaayy bbeeffoorree,, aanndd ssttoorreedd iinn tthhee ffrriiddggeeuunnttiill nneeeeddeedd..

SPIDERS’ WEB COOKIES

7755gg ((33oozz)) ssoofftt bbrroowwnn ssuuggaarr22 ttaabblleessppoooonnss ggoollddeenn ssyyrruupp11 ttaabblleessppoooonn bbllaacckk ttrreeaaccllee11 lleevveell tteeaassppoooonn eeaacchh ooff ggrroouunndd ggiinnggeerr aanndd mmiixxeedd ssppiiccee9955gg ((33 11//22 oozz)) mmaarrggaarriinnee½½ lleevveell tteeaassppoooonn bbaakkiinngg ppoowwddeerr222255gg ((88oozz)) ppllaaiinn fflloouurr111100gg ((44oozz)) iicciinngg ssuuggaarr ffoorr ddeeccoorraattiinngg

LLiinnee 22 bbaakkiinngg sshheeeettss aapppprrooxx 3300ccmm xx 4400 ccmm wwiitthh nnoonn--ssttiicckkbbaakkiinngg ppaappeerr,, lliigghhttllyy ggrreeaasseedd..

HHeeaatt oovveenn ttoo ggaass mmaarrkk 44,, 335500ººff oorr 118800ººcc..

PPuutt tthhee ssuuggaarr,, ssyyrruupp,, ttrreeaaccllee,, bbii--ccaarrbb.. ssppiicceess aanndd 11ttaabblleessppoooonn ooff wwaatteerr iinn aa llaarrggee ssaauucceeppaann,, bbrriinngg ttoo tthhee bbooiill..

RReemmoovvee ffrroomm tthhee hheeaatt,, ssttiirr iinn mmaarrgg..,, uunnttiill mmeelltteedd,, aanndd tthheennssiifftt tthhee fflloouurr iinn..

TThhiiss sshhoouulldd nnooww bbee aa mmaannaaggeeaabbllee ddoouugghh,, aadddd aa lliittttllee mmoorreefflloouurr iiff ttoooo ssoofftt..

LLeett iitt rreesstt iinn ffrriiddggee ffoorr 2200 mmiinnuutteess,, tthheenn rroollll oouutt,, ccuutt iinnttoo yyoouurrddeessiirreedd sshhaappeess,, 33mmmm tthhiicckk..

BBaakkee ffoorr 1100 ttoo 1155 mmiinnuutteess,, oorr uunnttiill ffiirrmm..

WWhheenn ccooooll,, mmiixx tthhee iicciinngg ssuuggaarr wwiitthh wwaatteerr,, aa lliittttllee aatt aa ttiimmee,,uunnttiill yyoouu ccaann ppiippee iitt oonnttoo aa ssppiiddeerr’’ss wweebb oonnttoo tthheemm..

FOR

25COOKIES

WITCHES BREW

MMiixx ttooggeetthheerr 22ccaarrttoonnss ooff aappppllee jjuuiiccee,,11 ccaarrttoonn ppoommeeggrraannaatteejjuuiiccee,, II ccaarrttoonn ppeeaacchhjjuuiiccee,, aadddd sslliicceess ooffoorraannggee,, sseerrvvee oovveerrlloottss ooff iiccee..

CREEPY CRISPY CRUNCHIES

MMeelltt 110000gg ((22oozz)) bbuutttteerr wwiitthh 220000gg((88oozz)) mmaarrsshhmmaalllloowwss,, ssttiirr iinn 88oozz ooffcchhooccoollaattee rriiccee cceerreeaall ee..gg ccooccooppooppss,, mmiixx iinn115500gg ((44oozz)) MM aannddMM’’ss..

SSppoooonn iinnttoo bbuunn oorr ppeettiitt ffoouurrccaasseess..

by Jan Morley of FreezerMor

>> MENUGGHHOOSSTTLLYY PPOOTTAATTOOEESS

TTOOAADDSS AANNDD SSNNAAKKEESS OONN BBRROOOOMMSSTTIICCKKSSSSPPIICCEEYY BBAATT WWIINNGGSSSSPPIIDDEERRSS´́WWEEBB CCOOOOKKIIEESS

CCRREEEEPPYY CCRRIISSPPYY CCRRUUNNCCHHIIEESSWWIITTCCHHEESS BBRREEWW

Halloween Party!

SPICY BAT WINGS

MMiixx ttooggeetthheerr ttoommaattoo ssaauuccee,, aa ggoooodd ssppllaasshh eeaacchh ooff LLeeaa aannddPPeerrrriinnss aanndd ddaarrkk SSooyyaa ssaauuccee,, ½½ tteeaassppoooonn ooff EEnngglliisshhmmuussttaarrdd..

BBrruusshh tthhee mmaarriinnaattee oovveerr tthhee wwiinnggss,, lleeaavvee iinn ffrriiddggee ffoorr aatt lleeaasstt11 hhoouurr bbeeffoorree ccooookkiinngg..

BBaakkee iinn aa mmooddeerraattee oovveenn ffoorr 2200 mmiinnuutteess..

GHOSTLY POTATOES

Tel./Fax.: 952 930 351

C.C. Los Jarales 3,

Calahonda km 197

g.t. mckennag.t. mckennaTHE IRISH FAMILY BUTCHER

� finest irish Beef & Bacon

� tasty irish cheeses &

gammons

� cooked hams

� BBQ meats

� meat for all occasions

72 costalife

>> costaSTUFF

vveerryy ddaayy wwee rreeaadd mmoorree ddeepprreessssiinngg nneewwss iinn tthhee mmeeddiiaa aabboouutt

tthhee ssttaattee ooff tthhee eeccoonnoommyy oorr wwee hheeaarr aabboouutt aannootthheerr ddiissaasstteerr

ssoommeewwhheerree iinn tthhee wwoorrlldd.. NNeewwss ooff eeaarrtthhqquuaakkeess,, aannootthheerr

tthhrreeaatteenneedd ttssuunnaammii,, ddeevvaassttaattiioonn aafftteerr hhuurrrriiccaanneess aanndd

ffllooooddss,, mmoorree ssuuiicciiddee bboommbbiinnggss aanndd tteerrrroorriisstt aaccttiivviittyy sseeeemm

ttoo ccrreeaattee aa cclliimmaattee ooff ffeeaarr tthhrroouugghhoouutt tthhee eeaarrtthh.. WWiitthh tthhee rreecceenntt nneewwss

eexxppoossuurree ooff tthhee ''BBiigg BBaanngg'' eexxppeerriimmeenntt iinn GGeenneevvaa,, SSwwiittzzeerrllaanndd,, aanndd tthhee

tthhrreeaatt ooff ffuurrtthheerr ddeessttrruuccttiioonn ooff oouurr ppllaanneett eevveenn mmoorree ffeeaarr wwaass aarroouusseedd iinn

tthhee aavveerraaggee ppeerrssoonn wwaattcchhiinngg tthhee tteelleevviissiioonn rreeppoorrttss..

Are you facing the future with fear and dread wondering where it will all

end and how you will be affected? Worry and fear very often contribute

to sickness and even death as the daily stress invades the mind and

body. Fear can actually cause physical symptoms of heart palpitations,

sweating and paralysis of our faculties while worry grinds away at our

peace of mind producing nervous breakdowns and other

associated conditions. Does all this worry and fear achieve anything

good at all?

The Oxford Dictionary defines the word ‘worry’ as ‘‘anxious or

troubled, letting the mind dwell on troubles, allowing no rest

or peace of mind, full of uneasiness, giving

way to anxiety’’. To worry about a matter and

be full of fear can never be constructive, in

fact it will always be destructive in some way.

But with all this bad news in the world, surely it

would be completely irresponsible not to worry! It

would be wonderful though if we were able to live

a life free of constant worry and fear, don’t you

think?

Let’s remember that the news media will

always highlight dramatic and alarming news

as this sells newspapers and attracts viewers to

television channels. Any good news is considered

unimportant and will usually be confined to the back

page of the newspaper or as an afterthought perhaps

in a TV news report. The majority of the civilised world

is greatly influenced by the media which is able to

control the moods and attitudes of the population. The

average person will wholeheartedly believe a media report

never considering that it could be biased or even totally untrue,

while at the same time considering the information contained in

the Holy Bible to be fantasy or a fabrication of truth.

Interestingly, it is now being established more and more that as

scientists continue to conduct experiments to prove the Bible wrong

and their man-made theories correct, evidence is being uncovered

showing that the information recorded in God’s Word is actually true.

Some scientists who have tried to prove the theory of evolution are

starting to talk about ‘Intelligent Design’.

We all have a free choice to decide for ourselves what we believe. For

those who make a decision to believe God and His Word there is a peace

and a comfort available which will carry us through every trial, every

storm, every difficulty. God will never leave or forsake us. He says

‘‘…..don’t worry about everyday life - whether you have enough food, drink

and clothes. Doesn’t life consist of more than food and clothing?……..Can

all your worries add a single moment to your life? Look at the birds. They

don’t need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because your heavenly

Father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than they

are……….Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and he will

give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the

Kingdom of God your primary concern.’’

Scriptures (NLT) Matthew 7:25-34.

AAnnnneettttee RRiiggggaallll

TThhee EEvvaannggeelliiccaall CChhrriissttiiaann FFeelllloowwsshhiipp

‘‘‘‘aann ooaassiiss wwhheerree tthhee WWoorrdd ooff GGoodd iiss pprreeaacchheedd aanndd tthhee lloovvee ooff GGoodd iiss

sshhaarreedd..’’’’

SSuunnddaayyss 44..3300ppmm IIgglleessiiaa SSaann MMiigguueell,, CCaallaahhoonnddaa

TTeell//FFaaxx ((00003344)) 995522 993300 227755 EE--mmaaiill:: tteeccffeelllloowwsshhiipp@@ggmmaaiill..ccoomm

WWeebbssiittee:: wwwwww..eeccffmmiijjaass..ccoomm

PPaassttoorrss PPeetteerr aanndd AAnnnneettttee RRiiggggaallll

EEEE

AARREE YYOOUU FFEEAARRFFUULLAARREE YYOOUU FFEEAARRFFUULLOOFF TTHHEE FFUUTTUURREE??OOFF TTHHEE FFUUTTUURREE??

It has been really hot so far this summer and our computers and printerswere not originally designed to work at such high temperatures. In the olddays computers were stored in air conditioned, dust free rooms. Printersall in the same place shared by everyone they were loud and veryunreliable. Over the years as components became cheaper companiesbought more computers and better printers helping bring the cost downas the price dropped more of us started to own computers and printersextra cooling was added to computers, components got smaller and the

computer movedfrom those cooldust freeenvironments tooffices (oftenstill airc o n d i t i o n e d )printers movedfirst from theprint room toeach departmentand then furtherto the user’sd e s k t o p .Problems withheat generatedby this equipment

became a by-product of the efficiency andproductivity companies wanted.

Companies often askedemployees to shut of themonitors of all equipmentand shut down idleequipment, to saveenergy and cut downthe amount of heatgenerated overn i g h t .C o m p a n i e sr e p o r t e di n c r e d i b l esavings notonly was theelectricity bills forrunning the computers systemlower but the Air-conditioning alsoworked less and the cost of keeping acomfortable work space also dropped. The manufacturersstarted making the working components smaller, less energy hungry andless hot when they run. Todays computers have lots of clever tricks tokeep them cool, fans that only kick in when the computer reaches acertain temperature, CPU and other chips so thin that they generate aslittle heat as possible. But remember the computer was designed to workin an office our homes especially here in Spain have all the thingscomputers and printers hate heat, humidity and dust ‘‘loads of dust’’.

So what can we do to keep our costs down?Switch off computer, if it’s not in use why leave it on. If you use voip cheapor skype consider buying one of the new devices that you don’t have toleave your computer on. Monitors, if you have to leave your PC on switchoff the monitor this will save electricity, even better replace your old CRTmonitor for a flat screen unit, they run much cooler and use lesselectricity than their older cousins. Hard drives, The hard drive is almostthe only moving part left in your computer (apart from the fans). In ourdusty, hot and humid environment hard drives fail save your data andback it all up to an external device. Printers, Ink in your inkjet or laserprinter dries up, blocking the jets which will cost you the price of a newcartridge or a complete set each time you need to print anything, to savemoney print 1 page at least every month to keep the inkjets and tonerdrum working. Laptops. Portable equipment is very susceptible tooverheating, they need servicing at least every year or so, the dust, hairand pollen in the air gets sucked into the laptop and blocks the coolingsystem and processor, this causes the computer to run MUCH hotter thanit was designed for. Blocked with dust the CPU can run so hot it causesfans and other components to fail. If your portable is running slow or veryhot get it serviced at your local computer repair shop.

If you are stuck, give me a call, I can help.

>> costaSTUFF

74 costalife

By Russell Vaughan Mintmicro S.L 951160411

Save money on your computer equipmentSave money on your computer equipment ..

SEO Services Spain -Search Engine Optimization

Want your business website to appear at the top of

Google, Yahoo and MSN? Do you have a website

but nobody knows that it exists?

I am an SEO consultant and can help you to attain

good rankings and increase web traffic to your site

and your sites visibility on the internet.

Call for a free no obligation analysis of your current

search engine placement and websites optimization.

Different packages available to suit all

budgets and requirements.

Websites designed from just €€ 400 and include

free hosting, domain name and email.

For more information please visitwww.seoservicesspain.com

or call Rob on 0034 617 940 022

>> costaSTUFF

72 costalife

>> The HappeningZZooooeeyy DDeesscchhaanneell,, BBeettttyy BBuucckklleeyy,, MMaarrkk WWaahhllbbeerrgg,, JJoohhnn LLeegguuiizzaammooA day in the park is where the end begins. One otherwise peaceful summermorning, New Yorkers strolling in Central Park cometo a halt in unison, and then begin killing themselvesby any means at hand. At a high-rise constructionsite a few blocks over, it’s raining bodies as workersstep off girders into space. And all the while, the cityis so quiet you can hear the gentle breeze in thetrees. That breeze carries a neurotoxin, and what orwho put it there (terrorists?) is a question raisedperiodically as the film unfolds. But the question thatreally matters is how and whether anybody in theMiddle Atlantic States is going to stay alive.

>> Indiana Jones and the

Kingdom of the Crystal SkullHHaarrrriissoonn FFoorrdd,, SShhiiaa LLaaBBeeoouuff,, CCaatteeBBllaanncchheetttt,, RRaayy WWiinnssttoonnee,, JJiimm BBrrooaaddbbeenntt,,KKaarreenn AAlllleenn,, JJoohhnn HHuurrttThe newest Indiana Jones adventure begins in thedesert in 1957 - the height of the Cold War. Indy andhis sidekick Mac (Ray Winstone) have escaped aclose scrape with Soviet agents on a remote airfield.Now, Jones has returned home to Marshall College

to find things have gone from bad to worse. Close friend and dean of the college(Jim Broadbent) explains that Indy’s recent activities have made him the object ofsuspicion, and that the government has put pressure on the university to fire him.

>> You Don't Mess With the ZohanAAddaamm SSaannddlleerr,, JJoohhnn TTuurrttuurrrroo,,EEmmmmaannuueellllee CChhrriiqquuii,, NNiicckk SSwwaarrddssoonn,,RRoobb SScchhnneeiiddeerrA top Israeli commando named Zohan (AdamSandler) fakes his own death in order topursue his dream: becoming a hairstylist inNew York. Though he wants to put his life ofcounter-terrorism behind him, he quickly findsthat it is not so easy to escape one’s roots. As

enemies old and new try to take him out, they will all come to learn thesame thing: you don’t mess with the Zohan.

>> The Incredible HulkEEddwwaarrdd NNoorrttoonn,, LLiivv TTyylleerr,, TTiimm RRootthh,, WWiilllliiaamm HHuurrtt,, TTiimm BBllaakkee

NNeellssoonn,, TTyy BBuurrrreellll,, CChhrriissttiinnaa CCaabboottA cure is in reach for the world’s most primal forceof fury: The Incredible Hulk. We find scientist BruceBanner, living in shadows, scouring the planet foran antidote. But the warmongers who dream ofabusing his powers won’t leave him alone, nor willhis need to be with the only woman he has everloved, Betty Ross. Upon returning to civilization, ourbrilliant doctor is ruthlessly pursued by TheAbomination -- a nightmarish beast of pureadrenaline and aggression whose powers matchThe Hulk’s own.

BBrriittnneeyy SSppeeaarrss ppllaannss ttoo ggoo bbaacckk oonn ttoouurrThe ‘‘Gimme More’’ singer has been practicing up her dance moves as she prepares for her re-emergence into theworld of pop music - with Brit’s mother Lynne confirming her daughter’s big future plans, saying, ‘‘She’s releasing music,she has plans to do tours and some other little secrets that I can’t tell you. It’s going to be fabulous though.’’

FFeerrttiilliittyy WWaatteerrNNiiccoollee KKiiddmmaann credits the ‘‘fertility water’’ she drank on the Australia film set for helping her realise her baby dreams.Seven babies were conceived on the set and the 41-year-old new mum insists there was something in the water. She said ‘‘I neverthought that I would get pregnant and give birth to a child but it happened on this movie’’.

KKeeaannuu RReeeevveessA judge in Los Angeles has dismissed assault claims against the actor by a paparazzo who was claiming Keanu hit him with his

car, deliberately.Photographer Alison Silva claims he was hit by Keanu’s Porsche back in March 2007 while photographing him. The judge declared

that ‘‘There was no evidence of the slightest contact or the slightest touching.’’ Adding that Reeves did not ‘‘act maliciously’’ ashe pulled out of a parking space as Alison had claimed.

KKiitttteenn vv JJoorrddaannEx-Atomic Kitten star turned reality TV star KKeerrrryy KKaattoonnaa is reportedly writing a tell-all book about JJoorrddaann. Kerry is furious about some of the things Jordan has said about her recently. She thinks she’s insecure and

hypocritical and wants the world to know who the real Jordan is.Kerry and Jordan became good friends when they competed on the British reality show I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here.

Kerry was even a bridesmaid in Jordan’s wedding to PPeetteerr AAnnddrree.

What are you in forWhat are you in for……Two little kids are in a hospital, lying on stretchers next to each otheroutside the operating room - the first surgeries of the day.

The first kid leans over and asks, ‘‘What are you in here for?’’ The secondkid says, ‘‘I’m in here to get my tonsils out and I’m a little nervous.’’

The first kid says, ‘‘You’ve got nothing to worry about. I had that done whenI was four. They put you to sleep, and when you wake up they give you lotsof Ice Cream. It’s a breeze.’’

The second kid then asks, ‘‘What are you here for?’’ The first kid says, ‘‘Acircumcision.’’

‘‘Whoa!’’ the second kid replies. ‘‘Good luck. I had that done when I wasborn. Couldn’t walk for a year.’’

78 costalife

>> costaSTUFF

How they gotHow they got

their names…their names…HotmailFounder Jack Smith got the idea of accessing e-mail via theweb from a computer anywhere in the world. When SabeerBhatia came up with the business plan for the mail service,he tried all kinds of names ending in mail and finally settledon Hotmail as it included the letters ‘‘html’’ - theprogramming language to write web pages. It was initially

referred to as HoTMaiL with selectiveuppercasing.

Apple computersIt was the favourite fruit of founder

Steve Jobs. He was three months latein filing a name for the business, and

he threatened to call his companyApple Computers if the othercolleagues didn’t come up with a

better name before 5 o’clock.

A few days ago I was having some work done at my local garage.A blonde came in and asked for a seven-hundred-ten.

We all looked at each other, and another customer asked, ‘‘Whatis a seven-hundred-ten?’’

She replied, ‘‘You know, the little piece in the middle of theengine. I lost it and need a new one. It had always been there.’’

The mechanic gave the blonde apiece of paper and a pen andasked her to drawwhat the piecelooked like. Shedrew a circle andin the middle of itwrote 710.

He then took herover to another carwhich had thehood up andasked, ‘‘Is there a710 on this car?’’

She pointed and said, ‘‘Ofcourse, it’s right there.’’

Is there a 7Is there a 7 10 on this car10 on this car……

Strange Job InterStrange Job Interview Behaviourview Behaviour……

‘‘... stretched out on the floor to fill out the job

application.’’

‘‘She wore a Walkman and said she could listen

to me and the music at the same time.’’

‘‘Balding candidate abruptly excused himself.

Returned to office a few minutes later, wearing a

hairpiece.’’

‘‘Applicant challenged interviewer to arm

wrestle.’’

‘‘... wouldn’t get out of the chair until I would hire

him. I had to call the police.’’

Sudoku answers for Issue 41

The rules of Sudoku:place a digit from 1-9 in each empty cell, so every row, every

column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9.

Down

1. Turned away or aside(7)

2. Similar (5)3. Kitchen implement (7)5. Commissioned military

officer (5)6. Unfathomable (7)7. Periodic rise and fall of

sea level (5)8. Deceive by mock

action (5)14. Assemble in proper

sequence (7)16. Scoundrel (7)17. Promote (7)18. Prolonged period of

time (5)19. Undefined (5)20. Live (5)22. Sum of money offered

as a prize (5)

Across

1. Counting device (6)4. A forceful consequence (6)9. Deport (5)10. Relished (7)11. Act of deliberate betrayal (7)12. Movable staircases (5)13. Easily handled or managed (6)15. Lithe (6)19. Device in a brass wind instrument (5)21. Oval (7)23. Slowly moving ice mass (7)24. Large artery (5)25. Throws out (6)26. Sternutation (6)

7

59 7

1

Crossword answers for Issue 41

4

9

6

9

costalife 79

costaSTUFF >>

1

15

7

23

4

58

8

4

2

2

64

>>>> costaGUIDE

TRANSPORT >>

TOURIST INFORMATIONAlhaurin de la Torre 952 410 005Alhaurin el Grande 952 491 275Alora 952 495 577Antequera 952 702 505Cartamar 952 422 126Coin 952 453 211Benalmádena 952 442 494 Estepona 952 802 002

Fuengirola 952 467 457 Gibraltar 0350 774 982 Málaga 952 213 445 Marbella 952 771 442 Mijas 952 485 900 Nerja 952 521 531 Torremolinos 952 374 231

TOWN HALLSCoin 952 453 020

Estepona 952 801 100 Foreigners Dept 952 589 440Fuengirola 952 589 300 Gibraltar 0350 774 902 Málaga 952 135 000 Marbella 952 761 100 Mijas 952 485 900 Nerja 952 548 449 Torremolinos 952 379 400

>> BRITISH CONSULATECalle Mauricio Moro, Pareta, 22nd Floor,MÁLAGA.Open 08:30 - 13:30 Enquiries 995522 335522 330000

>>>> LLOOCCAALL PPOOLLIICCEELocal Police 092Alhaurin el Grande 952 491 074Alora 952 496 468Antequera 952 708 104 Arroyo de la Miel 952 562 142 Benalmádena, Málaga, Marbella & Ronda 092 Cartama 952 422 211Coin 952 453 267 Estepona 952 800 243 Fuengirola Local 952 580 900 Fuengirola Municipal 952 197 090Nerja 952 521 545 Torremolinos 952 376 000

>>>> NNAATTIIOONNAALL PPOOLLIICCEENational Police 091

>>>> GGUUAARRDDIIAA CCIIVVIILL Guardia Civil 062Alhaurin el Grande 952 595 830Alhaurin del la Torre 952 960 067Alora 952 496 020Cartama 952 422 639Coin 952 450 138

>>>> FFIIRREE BBRRIIGGAADDEE Benalmádena, Málaga & Mijas 080 Coin 952 455 020Estepona 952 804 483 Fuengirola 952 461 046 Marbella 952 774 349 Torremolinos 952 381 414

>>>> MMEEDDIICCAALL SSEERRVVIICCEESS Emergencies 061

>>>> AAMMBBUULLAANNCCEE Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Málaga & Marbella 902 505 061

>>>> SSTTAATTEE HHOOSSPPIITTAALLSS Benalmádena & FuengirolaEmergencies only 902 505 061 Málaga 951 290 000 Marbella 951 976 669 Torremolinos 952 386 484Torremolinos (Centro deSalud) Health Centre 951 924 100

EMERGENCIES

Useful numbers & information

Shoes Men’s Wear Men’s Shirts Women’s Wear

MARKET PLACES

MMOONNDDAAYYSS >>>>Alora, Marbella near the footballstadium

TTUUEESSDDAAYYSS >>>>Benamagosa, Fuengirola (FeriaGround), Nerja weekly market (CalleChaparil)

WWEEDDNNEESSDDAAYY >>>>Benalmadena Parque de la Paloma, LaCala, Estepona, La Linea, Rincon dela Victoria

TTHHUURRSSDDAAYY >>>>Alhaurin el Grande, Pizara, Frigiliana,Torremolinos, Velez Malaga, SanPedro, Torre del Mar

FFRRIIDDAAYY >>>>Benalmadena Tivoli Gardens, Casares,Cartama, Aguamania, ctra Cartama,Las Chapas

SSAATTUURRDDAAYY >>>>Fuengirola, La Cala, Ojen Pueblo,Coin, Competa, Puerta Banus nearbullring

SSUUNNDDAAYY >>>>Estation de Cartama, Fuengirola nearthe mosque, Malaga near the footballstadium, Sabinillas, Estepona,Sotogrande, Nerja car boot sale

AAIIRRPPOORRTTSSMalaga 995522 004488 884444Gibraltar 0000335500 7733002266

TTAAXXIISS Benalmádena 995522 444411 554455 Estepona 995522 880022 990000Fuengirola 995522 447711 000000 Gibraltar 0000335500 7700002277Málaga 995522 332277 995500Marbella 995522 777744 448888Mijas Costa 995522 447766 559933

BBUUSS SSTTAATTIIOONNSSPortillo Customer ServiceDirect Line 990022 114433 114444Algeciras 995566 665544 330044Alhaurin 995522 449900 770099Benalmádena 995522 444433 556633Coin 995522 445500 336666Estepona 995522 880022 995544Fuengirola 995522 447755 006666La Linea 995522 117722 339966Málaga 995533 335500 006611Marbella 995522 776644 440000San Pedro 995522 778811 339966Torremolinos 995522 338800 996655

TTRRAAIINN SSTTAATTIIOONNSSThe Coastal Service stops at every major townbetween Fuengirola and Málaga from 06:45and 22:30 from Málaga Call 990022 224400 220022

SSPP37383940414243

UUKK456789

10

SSPP444648

50/52545658

UUKK34363840424446

SSPP35

36/3738

39/4041

42/4344

UUKK14

14.515

15.516

16.517

SSPP36384042444648

UUKK8

101214161820

>> Telephone: to make an international call fromSpain, dial 00 and then add the country code (UK44; USA 1; Australia 61; Canada 1; Irish Republic353; New Zealand 64) and the rest of thetelephone number minus the first zero if there isone. To call Spain from abroad, the country code is00 34.

>> Business hours: the normal opening hours forshops are Monday to Saturday from around 10amuntil about 1.30 / 2pm. After siesta they reopenfrom around 5.30pm until 8pm or 9pm. Largestores usually stay open all day. Most places are

closed on Sundays.>> Banks: generally open from 9am to 2pm fromMonday to Friday, and from 9am to midday or 1pmon Saturday. Hours may vary in summer.

>>Customs allowance- importation from Gibraltarinto Spain1 litre of spirits or strong liqueurs over 22% or 2litres of wine200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 gms tobaccoGoods brought in Gibraltar may only be importedinto spain between 0900 hours and 2100 hours

>>Spanish Facts

LOST/STOLEN CREDIT CARDS >>Abbey National 1619516500 Allied Irish 2890330099 American Express 2072229633Bank of Scotland 1383738866Barclays Bank 1604230230 Diners Club 1252513500 First Direct 1132345678Girobank 1514721110

Halifax 8457203099 Lloyds TSB 1702364274 Mastercard 1383621166Nat & Provincial 1274331522 Nationwide 1793543888 Natwest 1132778899 Yorkshire Bank 1132424800

SIZE COMPARISONS >>

DDoonn’’tt lleett bbeeiinngg uunnssuurree aabboouutt ssiizzeess iimmppaarree yyoouurr sshhooppppiinngg sspprreeeess......

Urbanizacion Elviria, Avda. Las Cumbres, Marbella Business Centre office 309Tel 952 835 695 mob 651 857 147 & 649 295 654

www.cselviria.com e-mail info@ladehesaproperties.com

REF. 1037 ELVIRIA PRICE 1.995.000 €PLOT : 1.700 M2. BUILT : 450 M2.TERRACES : 300 M2.BEDROOMS : 5 BATHROOMS : 4Luxury villa with panoramic sea and mountains views.Spacious lounge with fire place. Marble floorsthroughout. In lower level large office area, pool, largeparking area. Fully fitted kitchen. South orientation.

Ref. 0960 MARBELLA EAST PRICE 980.000 €PLOT : 1.400 M2. BUILT : 375 M2.TERRACES . 150 M2.BEDROOMS : 4 BATHROOMS : 3Charming Andalusian style villa, two levels, fantasticsea views, marble floors throughout, andalusianinterior patio with a fountain, large lounge with fireplace, fully fitted kitchen, pool. South orientation.

Exclusive Villas

REF. 0629 ELVIRIA 925.000 €PLOT : 1.075 m2 BUILT : 279 m2

TERRACES : 98 m2

BEDROOMS : 4 BATHROOMS : 3Very nice Andalusian villa with panoramic sea views. Southorientation. Downstairs modern apartment and double carportparking and garage. Heated pool. A.A. Barbacue area.

WILL PART EXCHANGE FOR APARTMENT

REF. 1203 ELVIRIA 650.000 €PRICE DROPPED FROM 850.000 €TO 650.000 €PLOT : 680 m2 BUILT : 200 m2 TERRACES : 40 m2

BEDROOMS : 4 BATHROOMS : 3Nice Andalusian villa located close to commercialcentre and 10 minutes to the beach. Communal pooland private garden. Large living area and separatedining room. East orientation.

REF. 1238 ELVIRIA 890.000 €PRICE DROPPED FROM 1.250.000 €TO 890.000 €PLOT : 1.000 m2 BUILT : 250 m2

TERRACES : 50 m2

BEDOOMS : 4 BATHROOMS : 3Elegant Andalusian villa with internal open patio. Verynice sea views. South orientation. Marble floorsthroughout. Located in a quiet residential area.

Special Offers

Ref. 1316 ELVIRIA PRICE 590.000 €BUILT : 151 M2. TERRACES : 30 M2.BEDROOMS : 3 BATHROOMS : 3Very nice luxury apartment located in the beautifulcomplex ELVIRIA HILLS, panoramic sea andmountains views, fully fitted kitchen, marble floorsthroughout. Communal pool. South orientation.

Ref. 1331 ELVIRIA PRICE 230.000 €BUILT : 105 m2. TERRACES : 20 m2.BEDROOMS : 4 BATHROOMS : 2Nice 1st. floor apartment situated in the complexPARQUE ELVIRIA, near to the shopping centre andfew minutes walk to the beach. Communal pool. Largeparking area. South-west orientation. Large loungewith fire place. Nice views to the mountains.

Ref. 1356 ELVIRIA PRICE 325.000 €BUILT : 97 M2. TERRACES : 36 M2.Bedooms : 2 Bathrooms : 2Very nice ground floor apartment situated in thebeautiful complex of EL MANANTIAL , 3 minutes walkto Santa Maria Golf, 5 minutes to shopping areas and10 minutes to the beach. Marble floor throughout. 3Communal pools. South orientation.

Apartments

Ref. 1310 ELVIRIA PRICE 1.570.000 €PLOT : 1.000 M2. BUILT : 428 M2.TERRACES : 40 M2.BEDROOMS : 5 BATHROOMS : 5Brand new modern style luxury villa built in two floors witha separated guest area. Located in a very quiet andresidential area of Elviria. Fully fitted kitchen, pool, garage,sea and mountains views. South-west orientation.