Tennis at Puente Romano - Andalucia Tennis

From this Friday 3rd April to 11th you have the chance to go and watch some great tennis matches at Puente Romano at the Andalucia Tennis Experience.

I found a flyer the other day and was passing by this morning. Some of the prices seemed so cheap that I thought maybe it was a mistake - but they are actually quite cheap, starting at around 5€.

Im definately going to go, even though Im not that keen on Tennis. For just a few Euros its a new experience and might even enjoy it.

Around Puente Romano is very busy where they are trying to get it all ready. There will be a ticket office there to buy tickets. Finding out whos playing when is a little more tricky...she said we find out one day before I think

Heres the website for more information http://www.andaluciatennis.com/index.php?i=1

English Speaking Solictors in Malaga

Dear Jo,

Love your website. I have found so many useful things. I am looking for an English Speaking Solicitor in Malaga. Can you recommend anyone? Look forward to hearing from you. Julie.


Dear Julie,

There do seem to be quite a few solicitors that speak English around Malaga area but I personally havent dealt with any or able to really recommend. The only name that I have heard of is Irwin Mitchell as they are in the UK too. Details below.

Irwin Mitchell AbogadosCalle Puerta del Mar 15, 2º29005 MálagaTel: +34 952 209 860
Fax: (+34) 952.214.416

Solicitors specialise in all sorts of areas so if you are more specific i.e, sale of a house, divorce, I can post it here and maybe someone else can help.

Regards

Joanne

The Auld Dubliner - Karaoke Bars Marbella

We had a big girls night out the other night at The Auld Dubliner and what a BRILLIANT night it was.

The Auld Dubliner is a bar / pub with pool tables, lots of seating area, outside area to smoke and also.....A KIDS ROOM....yes a whole room for children to play in with air hockey, wii - brilliant!

Friday Nights is Karaoke Night and what an absolute laugh it was. Everyone in the pub was on brilliant form and at some points the whole pub was up singing and dancing along. The atmosphere was absolutely brilliant.

If looking for a place to have a send off, birthday party / celebration - a really good place!

The Auld Dubliner is in Diana Park Area between San Pedro and Cancelada.

Los Arcos Marbella, Los Arcos Benavista

On Saturday we went to a leaving party at Los Arcos, yes sadly some friends have decided to go back to the UK. In fact today we know people going back and another couple tomorrow.

Los Arcos is a bar in Benavista, which I once went to when I stayed near there on holiday about 9 years ago now.

We went for the first time the other day and have to say it was really good fun. We dont normally go to the Benavista Area.

Its a bar with lots of outside tables and a huge play area with swings, seasaws, slides etc for the children to play on.

On Saturday we were there from 4 till 10pm and the kids just ran and played the whole time.

Brilliant Place for Children and pretty sure you could do birthday parties there too.

We could do with something very similar to this in Marbella!

Mercadona Closed Thursday April 1st

Whilst in Mercadona this morning I forgot to look at the dates they are closed.

I heard the girl say they were closed Thursday Afternoon normally at 14.15 but not too sure if opening on Friday.

If anyone knows, please leave a comment of the opening times & dates.

Spring / Summer Marbella

It finally feels like Spring. Everyones up and about, the paseo is full of people walking, jogging, kids playing.

Went to Mercadona this morning and full of Holiday Makers in their little summer dresses & skirts.

What a glorious couple of days we have had!

Lets hope it lasts.

Best Supermarkets in Andalucia

Hi,

I just read some of your comments re the supermarkets in Andalucia. We are going there in April and staying in a villa. I was wondering if you could recommend the best supermarket because I'd like to stock up when we get there and not have to keep going back to the supermarkets. Want to enjoy my holiday! Thanks so much in advance for your reply. Regards,

Hi

Mercadona is probaby the best and cheapest. Mainly own products but still good. If you want more English Products and Brands then Supersol and Hypercor.

Regards Joanne

Recommendation for Sol Y Luna Marbella

In Reply from Newsletter....


Hi Jo,
Have you tried the Sunday brunch at Sol y Luna - it is amazing value at 25 euros (go hungry!) - lots of cold starters inc lobster then assorted hots dishes as well as excellent BBQ - the bearnaise sauce for the steak is to die for. And to cap it all, the desserts should not be missed - amazing.

We were made to feel very welome and have already returned 3 times since January ( going again this sunday). They also have a wine dinner on one thursday each month where you have set meal including wine for 29.95 euros - good value. Nice setting and relaxed atmosphere.

You mentioned several restaurants near Beckitts - have you checked out Venezia - just up the road from Beckitts - excellent tapas and their patatas brava are just THE best.

Do let us know what your opinions are on the above if you go there.We really enjoy good meals and are delighted to hear of anywhere that can be recommended.

Best Regards

S & G

Thank you from The Foundation of Friends

23rd March 2010

Dear Jo

The Trustees and Directors of The Foundation of Friends would like to extend a heart felt thank you for all of your support and assistance at The Easter Parade and Family Fun Day held on Sunday 14th March 2010.

Through all your hard work and support we are pleased to announce that we will be passing to AVOI the sum of 2100 Euros on behalf of The Foundation of Friends.

We are working hard on a full schedule of events for the rest of the year all of which will only be possible with your continued support and good will and as a team we look forward to working with you again soon.

With kind regards.

Yours sincerely

Tony Michelle
On Behalf of The Foundation of Friends.

PRESS RELEASE

On Sunday 14th March The Foundation of Friends held their Easter Parade and Family Fun Day at Fuerte Nagueles overlooking Marbella.

The prospect of the first sunny and dry day since Christmas encouraged families from all over the area to come along and join in the fun.

As well as meeting the Easter Bunny, searching for Easter Eggs, enjoying popcorn, candyfloss, ice creams, hog roast and homemade cakes, they were treated to a full and varied program of entertainment provided by:

The Dance Moves Students of Princess Studios, showing a full spectrum of dance skills, from Jazz to Hip Hop, Commercial to Break Dancing.

The students of Stage Coach sang excerpts from several well-known musicals, and then joined with Christopher Howard to perform a West End finale.

Stilt walkers, jugglers, clowns, face painters and professional acrobats completed the entertainment.

The Trustees of The Foundation of Friends would like to extend a personal thank you to all the volunteers and supporters who worked so hard to ensure the success of the event.
We are proud to announce that the first donation arising from this event will be made to the charity of AVOI with a cheque for 2100 Euros with further donations to be made to other nominated childrens charities in the province.

Following the successful launch of The Foundation of Friends we are pleased to announce a full schedule of events for the coming year including a Family Sports & Fun Day to be held at The Multi Sports Club in Nueva Andalucia on Sunday 13th June.

If you would like to learn more about The Foundation of Friends and the work they are doing here in Spain and to hear more about all the exciting events planned please contact Michelle on 677154503 or
info@thefoundationoffriends.org

Sushi Puerto Banus, Sushi Marbella, Sensations Sushi

Lisa from Sensations Sushi Nueva Andaluca has emailed me a few times to come and try some of her food. Today I went along with my husband and took her up on her offer. We were given a Tokyo Menu on the house to share which is normally 9€.

A few sushi bits of Salmon, Tuna, Prawn etc. All absolutely delicious. The problem with Sushi is once you start you cant stop, and we had to order more things on the menu.

"The Phillie"which was salmon, avocado, cucumber & cream cheese - this came with 10 small pieces and was 12€. Brilliant Sushi!

Then we also tried the Tempura fried Sushi which came in 6 peices (Hoso Maki Flash I think) - unbelievably good. The menu is mainly sushi but whats great is there are also Salads, Wraps and Sandwiches too, so if you do fancy sushi but your kids, huband or wife doesnt - there is something else to eat.

For those that love Edamame Beans they have these on the menu too. Dont go there starving as the food does take a while to prepare because its freshly made but when it comes you wont be dissapointed.

It was all beautifully presented and all tasted absolutely amazing. Mouth watering - literally!

Its quite easy to park around there too which is good and theres inside and outside when the sun is shining.

They also do takeaway.

Sensations is between Pointer Vet Clinic and Centro Plaza on the Right Hand Side next to Cliche Bar. 0034 952 814 964

Sensations Website http://www.sensationsdeliandsushi.com

If you go please do tell Lisa that you found this on Nueva Andalucia Life.

Tool Hire in Nueva Andalucia

The other day my handyman was going to clean all our terrace floors. I went to the ferreteria up the road to get a brush but they didnt have.

Instead I ended up renting a power spray to clean the terrace. It was only 12€ for 6 hours. I was shocked how cheap it was. I had to put a 100€ deposit down which I got back once I returned the machine.

Whilst I wouldnt say it all looks absolutely amazing, as some of our tiles are just so stained with cal due to water constantly dripping down so some, its done a good job at getting rid of all the dirt between the tiles and it all looks much brighter.

Definately easier using this than a brush scrubbing constantly.

Andalucian Gardens Ferreteria have lots of other machines to rent & buy. They have one for tiles inside and say they will come up shiney - but how long can they stay shiney for?

Brilliant little shop with absolutely everything you need in it. Mother & Son who run it are lovely too.

Son speaks bit of English too if you need.

Taio Cruz filmed Video in Sotogrande

Hi Jo,

Really like the blog - thank you.

Thought you may be interested in this, Taio Cruz has just got to number 1 in the US with his song Break Your Heart. Most of the video was shot in Sotogrande last summer. Have a look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_SI2EDM6Lo

My family have a house in Alcaidesa up the road, so I know the area well.

Keep up the blog, it's my link to Spain while in England!

D

Il Ristorante La Campana Nueva Andalucia

El viernes fuimos a nuestros Weekley Menú del día hasta que nuestros amigos finalmente salir de España para el Reino Unido.

La semana pasada fuimos a Chateau Briand, que fue muy bueno y muy muy barato. Esta semana hemos intentado Il Ristorante que era donde Château Briand que solía ser.

Mucho más moderno y más ligero que el castillo Briand. Menú del día más caros a 15 € no incluidas las bebidas, sin embargo la comida ese día fue una liga diferente.

Para empezar me había ternera con salsa de atún - muy agradable, otros habían ensaladas de gambas, donde habían sido muy generosos con las gambas.

Como plato principal que había cocinado lento carne de vacuno (parte de buen tamaño) con 2 rodajas de patatas (mezquino), pero absolutamente delicioso! Otros habían pechuga de pollo de risotto y también Juan Dorey que era todo lo delicioso también.

Para los desiertos en un pastel de arándanos, ratón, etc queso ... todo muy bien - no complaints at all.

Las bebidas estaban en la cima y la factura final para 4 adultos, 3 cursos fue de 77 € uros. Ahora, mucho más caro que el Castillo Briant 44 €, pero para la calidad de la comida que tenía valor era realmente bueno.

Ambos restaurantes muy buenos y sin duda estará de vuelta para el Menú Del Dias!

Il Ristorante La Campana Nueva Andalucia

On Friday we went for our weekley Menu Del Dia until our friends finally leave Spain for the UK.

Last week we went to Chateau Briand, which was very good and very very cheap. This week we tried Il Ristorante which was where Chateau Briand used to be.

Much more modern and lighter than Chateau Briand. Menu del Dia more expensive at 15€ not including drinks, however the food that day was a different league.

To start I had Veal with a Tuna Sauce - very nice, others had prawn salads where they had been very generous with the prawns.

For main course I had slow cooked beef (good size portion) with 2 slices of potatoes (little mean) but absolutely delicious! Others had chicken breast on risotto and also John Dorey which was all delicious too.

For deserts was blueberry cake, mouse, cheese etc....all very nice - no complaints at all.

Drinks were on top and the final bill for 4 adults 3 courses was 77€uros. Now quite alot more expensive than Chateau Briant 44€ but for the quality of food that we had it was really good value.

Both restaurants very good and will definately be back for Menu Del Dias!

Fire Regulations in Holiday Apartments in Spain

Theres alot of rumours about certain fire regulations in Holiday Apartments in Spain. Its hard to find the true information.

However, regardless of the law and regulations, personally if people are renting a holiday apartment owned by yourselves, surely you want to make it as safe as possible.

At least in the event of there being an accident or fire, you know you have done your absolute best.

We recently bought all our smoke alarms from Leyroy Merlin. Its really important to read the instructions as it needs to be a certain about down from the ceiling. Its no good just putting them anywhere.

Also Ive been wanting to get Fire Blankets too for the kitchen. I know it takes a split second for you to forget whats on the hob - I am terrbible for answering the phone and wandering off. Ive even got one for my own house.

I got in touch with Jenny from Fire Safety Spain who provided me with fireblankets for the holiday apartments. For 15€ you can make sure your kitchen is a safe as possible. For just 60€uros you can buy a smoke alarm, blanket and extinguisher.

If you have a holiday apartment - make sure its safe. If you have gas then you can also buy carbon monoxide alarms too. Weve all heard what happened to that family abroad a little while ago.

60€ is nothing, its the price you get for 1 day rental. Make your apartment safe regardless of rules and regulations.

Contact Jenny on 607508308

http://www.firesafety-spain.com

Family Fun Day Nagueles

What a lovely atmosphere there was yesterday at the Family Fun Day at Nagueles. The weather was on their side for a short time and then around 3ish it started to pour down.

The kids that sung from Stage Coach were brilliant, could have listen to them all day.

Its amazing what can be acheived when everyone clubs together. Lovely day and hope they raised lots of money for their charity.

Linea Directa

Called Linea Directa this morning re the quote for our other car. It was only 388€ fully comp, but I always call to try and get cheaper.

He gave me a price of just 4€uros cheaper and I said...well dont confirm that yet, I call some other companies.

He was very persistent and said ok, let me check and see if I can get it any cheaper - save you calling around.

Well I got 20€uros off and managed to reduce the excess by 90€uros.

I had to claim off Linea Directa last year and they were pretty good at sorting everything out and this is really important.

Im Thinking of Moving to Marbella but what about Schools

Hello Jo

I hope you don’t mind my contacting you but I wanted to ask a question about schools in Marbella re your article about Schools and returning to the UK. It seems the main point you make is that the private system, Aloha College, EIC etc. do not offer a true bilingual education. But what about the general standard of education – is it as good in the private system in Marbella area as in the Uk? And do you think people are returning primarily because the education standard is better in the UK or is it more a question of not having the money to pay for private schooling in Spain?

Thanks in anticipation of any comment you can make on this.

Best Regards

Mark

Btw – I’m asking because we are thinking of moving to Marbella with children.

Hi Mark,

Thanks for your email. This is one of the main reasons which stops me from changing schools. The English Side of the Curriculum is very good. They do seem to push the children here, they get quite alot of home work even at 5 & 6 years old.

However, I havent lived in the uk for 7 years now and not 100% of what the systems are like there, although have friends and family that are teachers and think what my daughter is doing is maybe slightly more ahead than their uk state schools. I dont have a favourite at all regardless of what the other comment says. If you are coming to Spain and want to continue your children in the English Curriculum then you wont have a problem at all getting them into a International / British School. But you have to be happy paying. Whether what you are paying for is really any better than free state in the UK - I dont know.

Re Bilingual - some they say they are bilingual but they arent really because there are not enough hours in the day. But they do teach Spanish and there are many many Spanish Children at these schools too. There are also spanish assistants all day long in the class for 3 & 4 year olds but this normally stops at 5 / 6 years. Then its Spanish just 3 times a week. Some to follow both curriculums and at around year 3 the class will get split i.e spanish subjects for spanish - then spanish as a language for the english and other nationalities. If your child is very good at spanish then you could get them in the group with for Spanish for Spanish (if this makes sense). Re Spanish Schools there are Private & State. Im no way against these at all. Unfortunately because of the Point System (i.e where you live, siblings and earnings) here in Spain we couldnt get our daughter into the Spanish School we wanted where her friends were going. Then we started to become unsure if we were staying and felt that the best scenario is the keep our options open and all over the world are English International Schools.

Also Spanish School years go from Jan to Dec so with my daughter being born the end of Dec she would have been the youngest in the school and this would have been a struggle we felt and also many others including our Spanish friends felt too. People are leaving for many reasons, education is one of the reasons or sometimes just the extra reason to go if you have no work etc. But if you have 1 2 or 3 or 4 kids, private school is alot of money. Many people have taken their kids from Private to State - saying they were not happy with the education - some cases its because they couldnt afford it anymore and some genuingly were not happy with the Level of Spanish.

Then theres some people who cannot beleive you live in Spain and send your kids to an English School. I thought this when I was pregnant and up until my daughter was 2/3 years old she was only going to a Spanish School - but then you start to look around, open your mind and circumstances & things change.

I hope this isnt too negative but more realistic.

Regards

Joanne

Hi Joanne

Thank you for such a comprehensive and informative reply. We’ve met some teachers from Aloha and our own feeling is that the school provides a good education – so I was just checking that your blog wasn’t highlighting something I was aware of re educational standards. We’re still debating whether to make the move. On the plus side it’s a beautiful place (we had an apartment for 7 years which we sold last year – so we know our way around really well.) The real issue that my wife has is making new friends all over again and that our kids 14 and 10 will find new friends aswell.

Anyhow, thanks again for your really helpful reply and maybe we just have to be brave and make the move.

Cheers Mark

Felupus en Marbella - Felupus Spain

Hi Jo, encontrado su sitio y esta noche he encontrado muy útil y ya ha respondido muchas de las preguntas que tenga. Lo encontré muy informativo. Yo iba a dejar un comentario en el sitio, pero no pudo averiguar cómo dejar un comentario.

Básicamente mi pregunta es la que probablemente no has visto antes, pero se ha respondido ya tantas y para mí venir a través como una enciclopedia sobre el área de lo que he leído hasta ahora pensé que valdría la pena un tiro disparando mi consulta a usted. Mi esposa y yo, junto con nuestros 3 años hija está considerando mudarse a algún lugar de la zona de Marbella a finales de este año.

Mi mujer tiene una enfermedad llamada lupus y toma medicamentos diariamente para controlar la enfermedad, que es revisado periódicamente por los médicos en el Reino Unido para asegurar el nivel correcto de la medicación se toma para tratar de mantener la enfermedad en remisión.

Mi pregunta es, básicamente, ha oído hablar de ninguna otra persona con la misma enfermedad? La mayoría de las ciudades tienen un cierto tipo de clínicas regulares o especialistas dedicados a esta enfermedad en el Reino Unido, por lo que se preguntan si es posible recibir la atención comparables en el área de Marbella. Me imagino que esto puede ser una difícil de responder para usted como no mucha gente ha oído hablar de la enfermedad, que sin duda nunca había oído hablar de él, hasta que fue diagnosticado a mi esposa.

De todos modos cualquier información que puede proporcionar sería muy apreciada.

Gracias Chris

Hola Chris,

No, he tenido esta pregunta antes ... pero han oído hablar de Lupus ... estado viendo demasiado Casa!

He encontrado un sitio http://www.felupus.org que es para el lupus en España ... y hay una clínica en Málaga.

Si usted busca Traductor de Google podría traducir en gran parte a entender. Im seguro usted sabe de mi blog readinig sus puestos de trabajo bastante duro aquí para volver a asegurarse de que se ordenan antes de venir. I wouldnt quiere poner a nadie fuera, pero no quiero que la gente piense que viene es todo fantástico tampoco. Espero que estas personas pueden ayudar.

Ill poner esto en tu blog así que quizás otras personas con lupus en el área puede ponerse en contacto y ayudar.

Considera Joanne

Lupus in Marbella - Lupus Spain

Hi Jo, Found your site tonight and found i very usefull and already answered lots of the questions i have. Found it very informative. I was going to leave a comment on the site, but couldn't work out how to leave a new comment.

Basically my question is one that you probably haven't come across before but, you have answered so many already and to me come across as an encyclopedia on the area from what i have read so far i thought it would be worth a shot firing my query at you. My wife and I along with our 3 year old daughter are considering moving out to somewhere in the Marbella area later this year.

My wife has an illness called Lupus and takes daily medication to control the illness, she is monitored regularly by doctors in the UK to ensure the correct level of medication is being taken to try and keep the illness in remission.

My question is basically have you heard of anyone else out there with the same illness ? Most cities have some some sort of regular clinics or dedicated specialists to this illness in the UK, so we are wondering if it is possible to receive comparable care out in the Marbella area. I imagine this might be a tough one for you to answer as not too many people have heard of the illness, we had certainly never heard of it, until my wife was diagnosed.

Anyway any info you can provide would be much appreciated.

Thanks Chris

Hi Chris,

No, I havent had this question before...but Have heard of Lupus...been watching too much House!!!

I have found a site http://www.felupus.org/asociaciones/andalucia.php which is for lupus in Spain...and there is a clinic in Malaga.

IF you search Google Translate you could translate much of it to understand. Im sure you know from readinig my blog its quite tough here re jobs so make sure you are sorted before coming. I wouldnt want to put anyone off but dont want people coming thinking is all fantastic either. I hope these people can help.

Ill put this up on my blog so maybe other people with Lupus in the area may get in touch and help.

Regards Joanne

So there are jobs out there! Lovely Response to Newsletter

Hi Jo,

I love getting your updates, as it helps to remind me that us expats are all in the same boat one way or another.

We came to Marbella in Summer 2001, so have been through the highs andlows that Spain/Marbella has gone through over this last decade.

I havebeen in property and my partner in furniture. So not exactly themost profitable businesses at the moment.

But there is light at the end of the tunnel. Before we came to Spain I was a training manager for a very large and successful gastropub ukcompany, but thought I would never be able o use this extensive knowledgein Spain, wrong.

I am just about to start my new job as group training anddevelopment manager for Terra Sana, which is training the trainers to trainin store. How exciting!! I cant wait, to be working with such a successful company.

Please let me know if you would like ti hear more about how I get on,maybe a diary from the inside etc.

Cheers and keep up your GREAT work.

June

Castrado El Perro en Marbella

Yo había hecho para muchas citas para mi perro para ser castrado y mantuvo eliminarlas. Nos pareció una decisión muy difícil de hacer.

Sin embargo, después de hablar con mucha, mucha gente nos dimos cuenta de que era lo correcto para él, así que lo llevó a lo largo de punteros ayer.Abandonado por él de las 10am.

Se suponía que debía recogerlo a las 4 pm, pero la chica llamada diciendo que hadnt despertado todavía y quería mantenerlo allí durante un par de horas.Hemos perdido al pequeño polluelo, todo el día y no puedo creer lo ligado a él que somos. Llegamos a las 6 pm a recogerlo.

El personal no eran muy amables y me lo explicó todo. Nos llevó a su casa y él vomitó - Me asusté y estaba de vuelta en el teléfono para ellos, donde me aseguraban que el primer día que esto pueda suceder, pero volver mañana si hes todavía no está bien.Lo mantuvimos en nuestra habitación la noche anterior para mantener una estrecha vigilancia sobre él y hoy es mucho mejor.

Costo de un Pug era de 120 €uros y un poco más de los antibióticos.Hasta ahora, muy, muy satisfecho con el servicio y ayuda.Comer a los perros de la noche anterior y nada en la mañana de la operación.Puntero número de teléfono 952 814 401 Veterinarios

Castration at Pointer

I had made so many appointments for my dog to be castrated and kept cancelling them. We found it a really hard decision to make.

However, after speaking to lots and lots of people we realised it was the right thing to do for him so I took him along to Pointers yesterday.

Dropped him of by 10am. I was supposed to pick him up at 4pm but the girl called saying that he hadnt woken up yet and wanted to keep him there for another couple of hours.

We missed the little bugger all day and cannot beleive how attached to him we are. We got there at 6pm to collect him.

The staff there were very nice and explained everything to me. We took him home and he vomited - I panicked and was back on the phone to them, where they assured me that the first day this can happen, but come back tomorrow if hes still not well.

We kept him in our room last night to keep a close eye on him and today he is much better.

Cost for a Pug was 120€uros plus a little extra for antibiotics.

So far very very pleased with the service and help.

Feed dogs the night before and nothing in the morning of the operation.

Pointer Vets telephone number 952 814 401

Jobs in Marbella / Cancelada

Are you looking for work?



Ok, if you enjoy loud, busy environments and children, then you may be a good person for one of these jobs which is in a big indoor kids play centre.




Part Time Kitchen Help

Mostly Weekends, Approx 15 to 20 hours. English Speaking.



Fun Loving Barman

Must Speak Spanish & English



Monitor for Playcenter

To Cover Maternity leave from May 10th to February 11th. Must Speak English & Spanish.



Send email & information & cv to info@kidzkingdom.eu



In Title please put "Nueva Andalucia Life Job"



Good Luck!

Returning to the UK for Education?

Yesterday we met up with some friends who are leaving Spain to return to the UK. We have only known them a short time but we have had some great times in those few months and we will miss seeing them around.

However, they looked happier and more relaxed than ever, so moving back to the UK is obviously the right decision for them.

Education is one of the main reasons people are moving back with money obviously being a key factor. If you want an English Education then you have to pay for it and its NOT cheap. Then what exactly are you paying for?

You are certainly not paying for a Bilingual Education like a number of schools say they are. If it was Bilingual then I wouldnt mind at all paying.

But realistically its not...kids learn everything in English then have 3 lessons a week in Spanish. Then most of the time the kids are forced to Speak English therefore inhibiting your child to Speak Spanish anyway. Come year 1 or 2 you will see those Spanish Children who didnt speak a word of English suddenly speaking amazing English. Its great for the Spanish Children but not so great for our English kids.

Then on the other hand you have children in State Schools. Ive now learn not to assume that just because they have English in the Home and Spanish all day at school - they are bilingual...because Im hearing more and more stories of kids that just cant cope, understand or have the confidence in Spanish State Schools and are falling behind.

As Ive always said Im not in favour of Private nor State - everyone has their own opionions. I have friends that love their Spanish State Schools and I have others that wish they could afford to send Private as they say the system is just caotic. In September there were a number of people that took their kids out of International Schools and put into the Spanish State System as they didnt like the way the Private School was run.

I read a few other posts on forums about people leaving Spain to go back to the UK and some people are really nasty as if they have failed.

Well I dont think returning to the UK is an easy decision and actually admire these people going back doing what they think is right for their children.

Sunshine isnt everything and there are plenty of school holidays to be able to enjoy the Sun again in Spain.

If you are someone that has returned to the UK - how did your children fit back into the UK Education?

Email or leave a comment.

Restaurante Chateaubriant La Campana, Nueva Andalucia Marbella

Nos encontramos con algunos amigos de ayer para el almuerzo que se dirigen al Reino Unido muy pronto. Nosotros no queríamos gastar una fortuna, así que pensé que lo intentaría de nuevo Chateaubriant en La Campana. Solíamos ir mucho.

Tomamos el menú del día que ha pasado de 7 € a 9 €! Sin embargo, para 3 cursos y un trago de su valor excepcional.

Había una gran variedad de ensaladas para empezar, y luego tomé el entrecot & chips (que estaba bien - no fab pero por 9 € probado absolutamente bien), otros habían lasaña que estaba muy bien, a continuación, una selección de profiteroles, tiramisú o Chocolate pastel de postre - todos los cuales fueron muy buenos.

Entonces todo el mundo tenía un vaso de vino de una botella de agua, seguido de tés y cafés y de 4 de nosotros, el proyecto de ley fue la friolera de 44 € uros.

No libro para el almuerzo, ya que estaba lleno de allí.

Número de teléfono para Chateaubriant Nueva Andalucia es 952 90 50 21.

También tienen un menú en la tarde de 10,50 €

Chateaubriant Restaurant La Campana - Chateau Briand Nueva Andalucia

We met up with some friends yesterday for lunch who are heading back to the UK very soon. We didnt want to spend a fortune so we thought we´d try Chateaubriant again in La Campana. We used to go there alot.

We took the menu del dia which has shot up from 7€ to 9€! But for 3 courses and a drink its superb value.

There was a choice of salads to start, then I took the entrecote & chips (which was OK - not fab but for 9€ tasted absolutely fine), others had lasagne which was very good, then a choice of Profiteroles, Tiramisu or Chocolate Cake for dessert - all of which were really good.

Then everyone had a glass of wine a bottle of water, followed by teas & coffees and for 4 of us the bill was a whopping 44€uros.

Do book for lunch as it was full in there.

Phone number for Chateaubriant Nueva Andalucia is 952 90 50 21.

They also have a menu in the evening for 10.50€

New Indian Restaurant - Jasmine Nueva Andalucia

On the parade where Cafe Pasta, Press To and Happy Touch is a new Indian Restaurant is opening called Jasmines. Its changed hands so much i cant remember if thats where Ganesh used to be.

Should be opening soon.

I KEEP FINDING MONEY

I keep finding Money...

Today I was walking out of La Canada when a guy in front of me dropped everything from his wallet. He walked off leaving 5€ on the floor...Ive never seen a cleaner move so quick to pick it up in her dust pan and brush, but I got there first and returned it to the rightful owner who was very appreciative.

Then other day whilst in Toledo we walked into the Synagogue and found 5€uros on the floor. Being a place of worship we put it into the charity box there - especially with you know who looking down.

Wonder what I will find tomorrow?

Nermans Restaurant - Restaurante Nermans Nueva Andalucia

I heard the other day that Ogilvy & Mailer were changing hands and just now have received an email confirming this.

A lovely Swedish Couple are taking it over and it will be called Nermans. You can read all the history about them below but I can tell you that we once went to Terrasana in Marina Banus and whilst he was serving this was our best experience there. Very professional...so we are very much looking forward to visiting Ogilvy & Mailer as Nermans.

Good luck to Sandra & Carol.

Marbella to Toledo My Trip to Toledo

Im a bit behind on blogging as its been school holidays but last weekend we took the train to Madrid for the first time (for both Madrid and AVE). We spent 4 nights 5 days in Madrid and whilst it was great we had seen quite alot of it via the sightseeing buses.

So we decided to go and see Toledo, our friends in Madrid said it was stunning...and it was.

So one morning went to Madrid Atocha Station and bought some tickets for the AVE Madrid to Toledo. We didnt even think we may not get a seat. We literally bought the last 3 tickets on the train. From Madrid to Toledo it was exactly 30minutes.

You arrive at Toledo Station which is stunning. Then jump on one of the buses for a 5 minute journey to Toledo Town Centre. It was Stunning! I knew it was an old city and wasnt too sure what to expect, but I loved it.

Old cobbled narrow streets with loads of History in every crack and cranny, with McDonalds in the Main Square. Very busy with locals, kids and tourists.

We walked around to see the main sites, Churches, Mosques & Synagogues which was all very interesting. There were 2 synagogues there, you always know when you are getting closer to a jewish area as the swasticas start appearing. There are no Jews left in Toledo but there are nuns from the local convent who keep up the traditions and holidays - cant remember what they called themselves..

Then we took the tourist train - which was very very very bumpy in some parts. You have to buy a ticket before hand in an office up the side street, you will see directions in the main square.

Anyway, here are a few pictures of Toledo - If you are in Madrid or driving through I DEFINATELY recommend going to see Toledo, an amazing and really interesting place.

Marbella to Madrid by Train

We finally made it to Madrid! Next Barcelona!

Im not a great traveller, I always get nervous at airports, its always stressful, getting there so early before you flight. Trains...well Im completely converted...LOVED IT.


Maria Zambrano Malaga Station, lovely and tranquil, places to sit and relax, no need to get to the station until 5 minutes before you train leaves. Train was spotless, fast and incredibly smooth.


Train was dead on time of departure and arrival - incredible! The only thing is expect people to be sitting in your seat and pretend its their seat! Or expect the carriage to be changed at last minute and then your seats are all over the place...

If you get there early, take the kids to the adjoining hotel where this is a great slide from the first floor all the way down....even the staff use it...a little fun.

We booked our tickets a while back and it did take a long time. I think we paid 250€ for all 3 of us return...but the AVE takes you straight into the centre of the City...unlike the airport so weigh up the pros and cons.

I LOVED the train, it went sometimes up to 300kph but it was very very smooth. Toilets all clean, carriage with a cafe. I absolutely loved it and found it very relaxing.

On the way there we were in the basic carriage and on the way back we were in a slightly better carriage where the seats were a bit more confortable and chairs laid back a little bit, but unless there is little difference in the prices...i dont think its worth it.

Although...if you do travel the most expensive you do get I think they said 40% off your parking. Parking at Maria Zambrano Station is 17€ per day!!!

So if on a budget, park at the airport and get the train for a couple of stops.

Malaga to Cordoba is just 1 hour and if you book in advance can get some cheap tickets.

www.renfe.es to purchase tickets.

Photos of Madrid coming soon

Marbella Mobile Beauty Offers

Marbella Mobile Beauty

has a special offer for March

After what feels like a long winter and alot of bad weather the sun is shining again here on the Costa del Sol!

It wont be much longer until we're heading down to the beach so inpreparation for this why not treat yout feet?

A pedicure is a great feel good treatment. After a soak in a warm foot spa,feet and toes will be made to look and feel fabulous after being neglected all winter.

The treatment finishes with a luxurious foot massage and for the ladies you can even have diamontes with your nail polish to make toes look really bling!

***SPECIAL OFFER FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH***

Book a pedicure and receive a file and varnish on your hands OR an eye brow tidy, FREE!!!

Gift Vouchers Available.

Call Joanna on 637444136 to book your appointment.

Family Fun Day Nagueles - Charity Day in Nagueles Marbella

Michelle Gascoigne has contacted me as she is now the Director of Operations for a new charity currently undergoing its registration process here in Spain. Mission Statement and more about the charity is below.

Something fun for the Kids in Marbella....on SUNDAY 14th March at Nagueles Park 11am till 5pm opposite Swans School there will be a Easter Parade and Family Fun Day. Lots of things for the children





MISSION STATEMENT
The purpose of The Foundation of Friends is to extend a friendly hand to children who need our help.
Our aim is to engage the Expat and Spanish communities in coming together to raise money for facilities and support to help children who for a variety of reasons find themselves in difficulties.
The Foundation has been created by a team of like minded FRIENDS who wish to make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate than ourselves.
Through these efforts we can, not only help others but also create a closer and deeper relationship with our Spanish friends by working and playing together to improve the lives of our children.