FREE! Issue 016Your monthly guide to Europe’s most popular holiday resort

Coffee Break Interview

@RTNBenidorm RTN Benidorm

Duckie!

Tapa of the month

FREE!FREE!FREE! Issue 016Your monthly guide to Europe’s most popular holiday resortYour monthly guide to Europe’s most popular holiday resortYour monthly guide to Europe’s most popular holiday resort

@RTNBenidorm RTN Benidorm

January 2015 www.roundtownnews.com

by Jan Gamm

Benidorm records yet another outstanding year

THE CITY of Benidorm has enjoyed a most suc-cessful year, with tourism fi gures showing an impressive 11.2 million hotel stays. 2013 was ac-knowledged as a bumper year for tourism in the city – this year, the resort has managed to im-

prove on that record by 2%.Foreign travellers made up 52.6% of Benidorm’s

2014 visitors, with British holidaymakers in the majority - 4.6 million overnight stays increased by 4% compared to 2013. Belgians also increased by 4%, exceeding 461,000 overnight stays. The Dutch contingent increased by 5% taking another

305,000 rooms. And the Portuguese increased the summer season by 3% over 2013, generating more than 161,000 overnight stays.

Russian visitors increased by 18% with 77,500 overnight stays, despite the Ukraine crisis. The city continues to strive to develop this market.

Continued on page 7

Say hello Our Quacking reporter takes a flying visit to Playa Mal Pas •p18

Gambas Revueltas p27

ONE OF the suavest charmers on the Benidorm entertain-

ment circuit has to be Leroy – one third of The

Stylistic, the smartest and s m o o t h e s t

soul group around!•p13

JANUARY 2015

WIFI zones in BenidormAyuntamiento: Plaza SSMM los Reyes de España Red WIFIBND Paseo Colon: WIFIBND Mercado Municipal: Tomas Ortuño - WIFIBND Oficina Administrativa - Plaza de la Luna - WIFIBND Biblioteca Municipal Centro Jelena: C/ Olivos, 11 Biblioteca Europea - C/ Juan Fuster Zaragoza Centro Social LLorca Llinares - C/ Goya - WIFIBND Centro Información Juvenil - C/ Tomas Ortuño Centro Social La Torreta - C/ Ciudad Real, 4 WIFI - Avda. Comunidad Valenciana 7 Benidorm - Carre Londres

The number of small independent Cafes and Restaurants providing free WIFI is increasing all the time all over the city. You can find an app for WIFI hotspots on your Smartphone at www.wificafespots.com – either by GPS location or by address.

BENIDORM PROVIDES plenty of WIFI cover throughout the city. Here are some locations where WIFI is available:

Edita : Round Town News Group SL Servicios De Impresion S.A.- Deposito Legal : A-466-2013

Vall de Biar 14, 03530 La Nucia, Alicante. Distribution: iDs Logística. info@idssl.es, Alcoycourrier.SL.

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2

3JANUARY 2015

Benidorm Exploring the mythsBENIDORM’S IMAGE in the British press is portrayed as a resort full of cheap boozers. Let’s lay to rest a few of the old war horses that the media insists on riding over Europe’s single most popular holiday destination…

Spectacular view across the bay of Benidorm

BENIDORM WAS A FISHING VILLAGE BEFORE THE TOURIST BOOMNope - the harbour is too shallow. However, Benidorm has always been linked with the sea, pro-viding the most skilled crews in the whole of the Mediterra-nean for the Almadraba, the complex method by which tuna have been caught since Phoenician times.Benidorm has more hotel stars than the whole of Greece, an average of 315 sunny days a year and almost nil atmospheric pollution. No wonder the resort has such a high occupancy rate.

YOU BARELY HEAR A SPANISH ACCENT

Benidorm actually has a large number of ex pat residents but has always been the major resort for internal tourism – and far from never hearing a Spanish accent you can hear virtu-ally every accent, dialect and lan-guage of Spain.

BENIDORM ISLAND IS THE MISSING CHUNK OUT OF THE PUIG CAMPANA MOUNTAIN

BENIDORM IS WALL-TO-WALL HIGH-RISE APARTMENTSIn 1954 Pedro Zaragoza Orts, Mayor of Benidorm, created the ‘Plan General de Ordenación’, guaranteeing every building an area of leisure land. From the top of the Sierra Helada, the promontory at the end of the Rincon de Loix, you can get a stunning view of how green the city is.

BENIDORM HAS TO IMPORT SAND FROM MOROCCO TO MAINTAIN ITS BEACHES Not true. This was a joke by a tour rep in the 70s: his com ment passed into media history. The resort’s seven kilome-tres of silky soft sand are absolutely natural - the city supplies high-grade sand to a number of other local resorts.

BENIDORM FISH AND CHIP SHOPS

It´s true that there is a huge chunk missing but alas it is not in the sea! The island is in fact a continuation of the nearby Sierra Helada mountain range, which surfaces in the sea and is clearly visible from the 2 Benidorm beaches. The triangular shape is 350 metres long by 250 metres wide and you can take a boat trip out to the island. It is a protected marine and nature reserve which attracts a huge population of pigeons. The island is also called Peacock Island by many.

Larry’s Haddock can be found on Calle Gerona next to Telepizza & The Jolly Whale you’ll fi nd on the Levante beach front. Thanks to the draw the resort has it is possible to sample the cuisine of almost every nation as well as regional Spanish dishes.

4 JANUARY 2015

Practical information AIRLINE NUMBERS

If you need to contact the airline for any rea-son these are numbers based in Spain. Monarch – 800 099 260 free phone number Jet2 - 902 881 269 – calls cost 6.7c per min plus 8.3c connection.EasyJet – 902 599 900 from Spain – calls cost 8 cents per min from landlineOr 0843 104 5000 UK number – calls cost 5p per min

ALSA BUSESThis is the bus which runs to Alicante airport. You can catch it from either the Avda Europa, outside the Europa Clinica or from the bus station. Departs hourly and on the hour from Avda Europa from 7am until 10pm – but there is NO bus at 9pm: costs 9.45€ one way.

BANKSIn Spain banks only open for half a day, so make sure you go in the morning. Normal opening hours are 8.15am till 2pm, no Satur-day opening. All banks have an ATM with an option to change the language into Eng-lish – press the ‘cambio idiomas’ option.

BUSES The local bus service is run by Llorente. You pay the driver and the cost is 1.50€ regard-less of distance. Generally the buses run until midnight. The following buses, which all stop on the main Avd Mediterraneo, are probably the ones which you will fi nd most useful - but with baggage you would need to take a taxi as you are not allowed to take lug-gage onto local public buses.No 2 - Goes to Carrefour hypermarket and the La Marina Shopping centreNo 10 - To Altea via Alfaz del Pi and Albir: a great way to see the local area

CHEMISTSIn Spain they are called a ‘Farmacia’. There is a 24hour Farmacia on the main Avd Medi-terraneo and the staff speaks English. Many local Farmacias close over the lunch period from 1.30, re-opening at 5pm. If you need any sort of medication, including asprin or para-cetamol, you can only buy them here: super-markets are not allowed to sell any kind of medicine.

DOCTORIf you have your EHIC – European Health Insurance Card you are entitled to see the social security doctor free of charge in an

emergency, but you must also present your passport with the card. There are two ‘Cen-tro de Salud’ (health centres) in Benidorm you can attend: Rincon de Loix - On Avd Derramador near to the Indoor market Foiettes in the Old Town - Calle VenuzuelaLa Cala - Avda de Benisa

EXCURSIONS See pages 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 & 21

FOOD AND DRINKSee pages 27, 28, 29, 30 & 31

NIGHTLIFESee pages 23, 24, & 25

REPORTING A CRIMESATE The Foreign Tourist Assistance Offi ce. If you are unfortunate enough to become a victim of crime this is ideally where you should go to report it. Located on the fi rst fl oor of the Tourist Information Offi ce, at the very end of the Poniente Beach in the Old Town. Open Monday to Friday from 9am until 9pm and from 10am until 2pm over the weekend. They have interpreters on hand and the use of a telephone to call relatives and your insurance company free of charge. The 24-hour helpline is 902 102 112.

HERE IS some useful information to help make your holiday in Benidorm safe, worry free and a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

In Spain they are called a ‘Farmacia’. There is a 24hour Farmacia on the main Avd Medi-terraneo and the staff speaks English. Many local Farmacias close over the lunch period from 1.30, re-opening at 5pm. If you need any sort of medication, including asprin or para-cetamol, you can only buy them here: super-markets are not allowed to sell any kind of medicine.

If you have your EHIC – European Health Insurance Card you are entitled to see the

This is located in Alicante – Edf Espacio, Rambla Mendez Nuñez, 6th Floor, Alicante 03002. Open Monday to Friday from 8.30am until 1.30pm. In an emergency contact 965 216 002: if you have lost or had your passport stolen you will need to go there to obtain an emergency travel document to get you back to the UK, which will take about two hours to process. It will only be valid for that one journey and costs ap-proximately 120€.

BRITISH CONSULATE

HOSPITALSThere is only one so-cial security hospital covering Benidorm – the Hospital Marina Baixa, which is actu-ally located in Villa Joyosa, a short dis-tance from the centre of Benidorm (just past La Cala). However, there are two private hospitals in the centre of Benidorm – you will have to pay for any treatment or you can use your travel insurance if covered. IMED Levante: located in the Rincon de Loix on Calle Doctor Ramon y Cajal. Telephone number 96 687 8787Hospital Clinica Benidorm: located in the Old Town on Avd Alfonso Puchades: Telephone number 96 585 3850

EMERGENCY NUMBERS112 is the European equivalent of 999 in the UKAmbulance – 112Local Police – 966 807 766 or 092 in an emergencyNational Police – 966 831 930 or 091 in an emergencyGuardia Civil – 965 854 475 or 062 in an emergency

is the European equivalent of

TOURIST INFOSThere are 3 operational offi ces run by the Town Hall and 2 run by Round Town Travel. They can off er help, advine and information on making the most of your time in anda round Benidorm. You can pick up maps and leafl ets of attractions and places to visit at any of the following offi ces.Main Tourist Information Centre – located at the end of Levante Beach on the edge of the Old Town. Contact number: 965 851 311 / 965 853 224 Opening times: Mon – Fri 10.00 – 21.00 / Sat

5JANUARY 2015

Practical information

IT WAS in the early 1950s that Mayor Pedro Zaragoza revolu-tionised this former fi shing village by famously hopping on his Vespa and riding 300 miles to Madrid to get Franco’s per-mission for female tourists to wear their revealing bathing costumes on his beaches. The archbishops were outraged, but Franco agreed, and a legend was born as Benidorm be-came the fi rst seaside town in Spain to allow bikinis!

Until the 1950s the predominant industry in Benidorm was fi shing but in 1952 one of the biggest tuna fi sheries was closed down in the municipality. Up until 1959 there were only four hotels in the town yet unbelievably it was recorded that in 1957 30,000 tourists fl ew from the UK to Valencia on British European Airways and chose Benidorm as the fi nal destination for their holiday.

Tourists fl ocked into Benidorm - both Spanish and Brits. The arrival of cheap package holidays initially fl ying into Manises Valencia (as it was the closest airport then from 1967 to El Al-tet Alicante) brought Europe closer to Benidorm. Between 1960 and 1980 over 80 new hotels opened to satisfy the demand of the growing tourist industry.

Madrileños, the term referred to of residents of Madrid treat Benidorm as their local beach and fl ock here for the weekend – the opening of the AP7 motorway in 1975 made it a comfort-able journey taking under fi ve hours.

The bullring, which still stands in the Old Town, was built in 1962 – then it was surrounded by orchards but now it is surrounded by high rise apartments and hotels. In 1963 a development plan was passed allowing the construction of higher skyscrapers and Benidorm currently has the highest density of skyscrapers per inhabitant worldwide!

The church of San Jaime, with its distinctive blue-doomed roof dates back to 1740, perched on the top of the Old Town on a hill called Canfali – to this day it still holds regular mass and is a popular tourist attraction.

The British market is the biggest and most important per-centage of visitors to the resort and it is thanks to their contin-ued loyalty that Benidorm continues to thrive. It has changed beyond recognition since the 1950s but has adapted to survive with the aim of retaining the number one destination spot for the British holiday maker.

BENIDORM’S SUCCESS is based on two main attractions – long stretches of golden sand and a microclimate that guarantees almost year round sunshine.

Then and now

Madrileños, the term referred to of residents of Madrid treat

BENIDORM’S SUCCESS is based on two main attractions

Then and now

IT WAStionised this former fi shing village by famously hopping on his Vespa and riding 300 miles to Madrid to get Franco’s per-mission for female tourists to wear their revealing bathing costumes on his beaches. The archbishops were outraged, but Franco agreed, and a legend was born as Benidorm be-came the fi rst seaside town in Spain to allow bikinis!

Until the 1950s the predominant industry in Benidorm was fi shing but in 1952 one of the biggest tuna fi sheries was closed down in the municipality. Up until 1959 there were only four hotels in the town yet unbelievably it was recorded that in 1957 30,000 tourists fl ew from the UK to Valencia on British European Airways and chose Benidorm as the fi nal destination for their holiday.

arrival of cheap package holidays initially fl ying into Manises Valencia (as it was the closest airport then from 1967 to El Al-tet Alicante) brought Europe closer to Benidorm. Between 1960 and 1980 over 80 new hotels opened to satisfy the demand of the growing tourist industry.

6 January 2015

Eyes d wnHave you ever walked past bars in Benidorm with boards advertising “eyes Down” and wondered why they don´t call it bingo.

The reason being, it is illegal to gamble in Spain outside of authorized establishments. If you do fancy a flutter pop into Bingo Plaza, which is one of the only fully legalised place to play bingo in Benidorm - located next to McDonalds on the Plaza Hispanidad, otherwise referred to as The Triangle, where the huge rubber tree is.

Bingo Plaza is open every day from 2pm until 2am - and on Friday and Saturday it stays open until 3am. Just like a casino you have to be over the age of 18 to enter and show photographic ID, it is best to take your passport. The number is recorded and you are then allowed to enter, which is free (the casino in alicante charge 3 euros entry). you have to wait until the enter light above the door lights up... they do not al-low you to go in whilst a game is in progress.

What you will find rather strange is that they are not allowed to advertise what the prize money is outside of the building. In the uK, places such as Gala Bingo have huge billboards plas-tered up with the jackpot prize, but here in Spain it is not al-lowed. It is not until you enter the huge hall that you can see the prize money advertised on screens around the room.

you will be quite shocked as to how large and plush it is upon entering inside – it has a seating capacity for 600, spread across 100 round tables. each table has 6 chairs and set flush into the middle of the table is an LeD monitor, al-lowing you to follow the progress of the numbers as they are called. each table has marker pens so you don´t need to worry about bringing your own pens.

each game lasts about 5 minutes - there are prizes for 1

complete line (5 numbers) then onto a full house. There are between 10 and 12 games per hour, so as you can tell its quite fast paced! The numbers are called in Spanish but if you are not familiar with the language just watch the screen. When you have a complete line you shout “linea” or “line” and hold up your hand. Someone will come to you and leave a marker on your table then the game continues till full house is called. you are given your prize money there and then in cash at the end of the game. If there is more than one winner then the prize pot is shared, which is the same as in the uK.

People come and go after each game as they please. The prize money is dependent on how many people are play-ing... the more people the bigger the prize pot. Throughout the day they also have extra bonus jackpots... for instance, the first game of each day has a full house bonus of 1000 euros on top of the normal win - this is to entice people to come when it first opens at 2pm.

Before the start of each game an attendant will walk around the room selling bingo cards for that game. one card costs 1.50€ but there are some bonus games which are 2€ each ... these obviously have bigger prizes. you can play as many cards as you want per game, but to begin with stick with one till you get the hang of it! after the game has finished the at-tendants walk around again for the next game... you can play as often as you want.

on each table you will also find a button to summon a waiter to order drinks and there is even an option to eat there – you won´t believe how cheap it is either. During the day a 3 course menu del dia is 3.60€ which includes a drink and in the evening it is only 3€. you can also order a sandwich which comes with chips and a drink for 4€ - the prices are heavily subsidised and the quality top class, so no need to leave the premises to eat. Why not give it a go – just remember to take your passport.

7january 2015

by Irena Bodnarec

It’s all about the Animals!THE SPANISH have an extraordinary number of Saint Days and the first of the year kicks off on 17th January – San Antón.

Saint antonio is the patron saint of ani-mals and celebrated across the whole of Spain. in a scene reminiscent of the iconic animal blessing from “the Vicar of Dibley”, the Ermita de Sanz located directly behind the El Cisne weekend rastro, will certainly resemble that spectacle! the fiesta also combines the equivalent of a Harvest Fes-tival and various offerings will take place in the preceding week - but by far the most

popular event is the blessing of the ani-mals. Last year dogs far outnumbered any other animals - it looked as if the entire dog population of Benidorm was present, but there were also cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, budgies, some horses and a pony. a marque will be specially erected next to the chapel to welcome the four-legged congre-gation and after the service the priest bless-es them each with holy water. it is nice to see such traditions continuing here and the great support and turnout by locals.

Continued from front pageFAMILY FAVOURITEBenidorm continues to perform in terms of international tourism, which has helped to cover the slight shortfall in the domestic market. it is quite simply one of the world’s favourites for family holidays and offers a winning recipe of top value for money, excellent accommodation, exemplary choices for cuisine and never runs short of ‘stuff to do’! Hosbec President Antonio mayor welcomed the results this week, saying that the figures “…certainly confirmed the strength of Benidorm on the international tourist scene.” And as the first signs of economic recovery emerge for cash-strapped spain, Benidorm is looking forward to an even more prosperous 2015.

5

9JANUARY 2015

Plenty to do in Benidorm BENIDORM ATTRACTS millions of holidaymakers, not just over the hot sunny months but also all through the entire year. There is still plenty to keep you busy, even when it isn’t quite warm enough to relax on the beach.

THE LONG awaited Casino opened during the Sum-mer on the Avd Mediterraneo (Rincon end) and is Benidorm´s latest and most exciting addition to the re-sort. It is already attracting plenty every day, with doors opening at 10am for the keen among you and not clos-ing until 3am – later on Friday and Saturday. Remem-ber that you need to bring your passport for ID and no under 18´s are allowed on the premises.

BINGOIF ITS Bingo that takes your fancy then try Bingo Plaza – also on the Avd Mediterraneo but at the other end, opposite the Plaza Triangular towards the Old Town. Open daily from 2pm, again a strict no under 18´s policy applies. Although the numbers are all called out in Spanish, the multiple screens around the room and one

on each table ensures that you don´t miss any called out. They have a fantastic restaurant with subsidized prices to

encourage you to stay instead of popping out for a bite to eat. Alternatively, there are plenty of British bars ad-vertising ´Eyes Down¨ or ¨Housey´ around the Rincon where you can get your fix in English.

SHOPPINGIF SHOPPING is your passion then you won´t be disappointed. A recent survey in the British Press found that prices in Spain were substantially cheaper than their counterparts in the UK in shops such as Zara, Mango and Massimo Dutti – so leave space in your luggage. All these stores can be found at the La Marina Shopping Centre – take the number 2 bus from the centre or in the Old Town. The Indoor Market is an Aladdin´s cave of hidden treasures with a selection of mainly British owned independent shops, hair and beauty salons and cafes to browse around. There are also a number of reputable and honest money exchange bureaus where you get the rate shown on the board. Open Monday to Friday until 6pm and until 3pm on Saturday, all three entrances are wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible.

KAROAKEIF YOU are looking for after-noon entertainment you can take to the microphone at nu-merous bars for a karaoke ses-sion – all advertise on boards outside or if dancing takes your fancy, try an old fashioned tea dance at the Caféteria Roman. Located right on the Levante promenade opposite McDon-alds, every day between 5pm

and 9pm they have a live band with a floor

full of couples danc-ing a

W a l t z or Quick Step. FOR THE

KIDSFOR THE younger at heart try 10 pin bowling at one of two alleys – Ozone on the Avd Mediterraneo

which is open from 10am or on the top fl oor of the La Marina shopping centre, which opens at

4pm. Terra Natura Wildlife Park is still open throughout the Winter season, but only on

Friday, Saturday and Sunday and a great place for both children and adults.

CASINO

10 january 2015

Gibraltar and one of its busy streets

Bill & Kerri at Round Town Travel Gerona

by Dave Gaskell

Calle Gerona all day all night, even in JanuaryThe sTreeT that never sleeps, eat, drink & play!

Running paRallel to the playa levante from the long es-tablished (quality) Spanish restaurant “el Meson – Cruz Blan-ca” in the south of the street not far from the Old Town, all the way to Morgan´s Tavern the famous cabaret bar located at the far north end of the street in the Rincon de loix.

Calle gerona is without any doubt the street that never sleeps. For the visitor intent on eating big breakfasts, eng-lish lunches and drinking more than you know is good for you, then the street that cuts right through the centre of Benidorm´s levante is where you will find it all, both day and night.

One half (north) offers a guaranteed lively break with show bars, sports bars and disco bars favoured by the British visitor looking for great value drinks plus home from home cooking all of which is available in abundance from 10am un-til 5am 365 days of the year. a pint costs from 1.20€ to 3.00€ depending on where you are and what is on offer, such as the superb and always free entertainment. a belly busting plate of fish chips and mushy peas or an everyday Sunday roast will set you back little more than 6€.

For a quieter option where a big choice of dining options are available then the other half (South) of Calle gerona will be your best choice. Here you will find superb long established italian pizzerias, fine indian cuisine, quality Spanish restau-

rants and speciality grills for lovers of steaks. Here a world of al Fresco dining awaits you on the restaurant terraces.

Staying on Calle gerona to make the most of your next trip to Benidorm could not be easier with every type of hotel right on the street. prefer to be a hop from the lively bars? Book into the very busy 3* ambassador playa or op-posite the start of the street the new 4* Hotel Flash. pre-fer to be nearer to restaurants, closer to the old town and away from the “package” holiday hotels? The traditional

little 3* los alamos is ideal as a base and will not break the bank or for a 4* try the Hotel Marina with the just opened White Star Titanic bar and terrace.

When time is short if you only have a few days break then staying in the hub of Benidorm either on or near to Calle gerona will ensure that you enjoy what Benidorm is famous for. Fantastic value, plenty of choice, late nights and of course those stunning beaches to sleep off the night before! Book Calle gerona hotels at www.realbenidorm.net

12 JANUARY 2015

IT IS certainly worth taking

a look in chains such as Zara and Mango as prices are often cheaper here in Spain than they are in the UK

- even taking into ac-count currency exchange rates. Two of the best shop-ping areas to start with are the Old Town, where you

will fi nd a good mix of High Street favourites sitting alongside independent boutiques and the La Marina

shopping centre, located next to the huge Carrefour hy-permarket - the No 2 Llorente bus will take you there

from the Avd Mediterraneo. Unlike the UK, shops here do not open on a Sunday,

with the exception of small grocery shops and that is only until lunchtime. Another big diff erence is the re-turns policy – goods have to be taken back within 15 days of purchase, with the original receipt. Often sale items cannot be refunded so try items on before pur-chasing and lastly, make sure you have enough lug-gage allowance to take your bargains back home!

Old TownThe Old Town is a great place to start. Calle Gambo, the

pedestrianised street that begins at the Plaza Triangular, where the huge rubber tree is, has a great selection of pop-

ular boutiques such as Masimo Dutti – a must for fashion-savvy customers, and Zara, which is now everyone’s favour-

ite High Street fashion hit. The prices tend to work out cheaper here in Spain even taking into account the exchange rate, so it is certainly worth a visit. One well-known English name here

and one you will be familiar with is Specsavers - the UK’s most popular opticians, run by Phillip, a British ex-pat.

Paseo de la Carretera is another must-do street and

will take you all the way to Elche Park. One quirky shop which will catch your eye is Ale Hop – easily spotted as all the branches have a massive cow outside! Here you will fi nd accessories, gifts, unusual

novelties and decor at very aff ordable prices. Ladies, if you are looking for a fabulous ball gown, make sure you pop into Bambu where you will be amazed at the array of styles and colours on off er – and so much cheaper than the UK!

Not forgetting the boys and budding Rambos among you, if you have a passion for guns and military bits then stop off at Europa. One shop which you will not be able to resist walking into is Bartolucci – a fairytale toy-shop off ering hand-made wooden toys of exceptional quality. You will not be able to resist the adorable painted wooden objects such as clocks, door plates and pictures frames, which can all be personalised – any child would be delighted with a gift from here.

Av. MediterraneoThe Avd Mediterraneo, which runs all the way from the Rincon de Loix up

to the edge of the Old Town, is lined with an array of shops. Tobacco shops for your cigarette and spirit supply to take back home – the biggest range is found at EuroTobacco; leather shops selling beautiful quality coats and jackets for ladies and gents; Lottery shops if you fancy a fl utter on the Euro Millions and plenty of souvenir shops selling typical holiday mementos.

La MarinaLa Marina Shopping Centre off ers a broad selection of shops in an air con-

ditioned environment. Known as ‘Centro Comercial La Marina’, it has shops and restaurants and even an entertainment complex on the top fl oor. C&A, a UK department store which disappeared from the UK High Street some years back, you will still fi nd here – and particularly popular with visiting Brits. There is an excellent Zara Home selling gorgeous home accessories; a home store called Casa where you can buy all manner of kitchen gadgets and knick knacks for the home; Mango; H&M; Stradivarius; Pimkie and Benetton for trendy fashion; Druni and Douglas – both selling beauty products and perfume … and that’s just a handful of what is on off er. You can easily spend hours browsing around here.

BACK IN the UK the traditional sales begin the day after Christmas, on Boxing Day. However, here in Spain things are somewhat different, mainly because they have a “second” present giving day – the Three Kings, which fell on 6th January. Up until that

time most stores are still trying to maximize sales but come the 7th, the sales, or

rebajas as they are called in Spanish, begin. You will see shop windows

covered with red banners and posters, often in a multitude of languages declaring it´s

“Rebajas” time.

13JANUARY 2015

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Coffee breakThe interview - Leroy CharleryONE OF the suavest charmers on the Benidorm entertainment circuit has to be Leroy – one third of The Stylistics, the smartest and smoothest soul group around!LEROY HAS been working in Benidorm for the last 8 years – originally as part of The Temptations and for the last 3 years, with The Sty-listics. He studied at the famed Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts and has an impressive repertoire to his name, appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar, Carousel at the Royal National Theatre on Shaftsbury Ave, Jerry Springer – The Opera and even played Rocky in The Rocky Horror Show. In addition to serious acting parts he has also been a podium dancer at a top London nightclub, the Hippodrome in Leicester Square. Singing is something which he is passionate about – he was in a group called “Soul Sensation”, entertaining onboard the QE2and was part of the support act for “The Drifters” when they were touring the UK. He was delighted when The Stylistics were asked to be on the hit ITV comedy series Benidorm by none other than the writter and creator himself, Derren Litten, who frequently came to watch them perform at Stardust, where they are exclusive. He is currently back in the UK but will be back in Benidorm mid March – in the meantime you can follow him on twitter @LeroyStylistics

Where are you from in the UK? Originally Notting Hill in London but now in Enfi eldHow long have you lived in Spain? 8 yearsWhat did you eat for breakfast today? Scrambled eggsDescribe yourself in 3 words Ambitious, Fun, Alcoholic!Marmite, love it or hate it? I eat it… as it´s good for youWhat´s your guilty pleasure?KFCWhat´s your proudest moment? 1st daughter being bornWhat makes you see red?

Zebra crossingsDo you have a hero? Steve Washington – a music producerFavourite food? Peppered steakWhat´s your tipple? Jack D straight up followed by a Baby Guin-ness – Tia Maria and BaileysFavourite music? FunkDesert Island song? Midnight train to Geor-gia by Gladys KnightFavourite fi lm? Midnight ExpressFavourite read?

The Autobiography of Malcolm XIs the glass half full or half empty? FullX-Factor or Strictly? X-FactorWho is your favourite Beni-dorm series character? MadgeOld Town or New Town? Old TownBeach or pool? Pool

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Rincon de Loix

Poniente/La Cala

STARTING AT Parc del Elche in the Old Town, generally referred to as Dove Park due to the hundreds of white doves, is Poniente beach, which runs for more than 3km and finishes at La Cala. The promenade, which runs along the entire length of the beach, won an architectural award for its innovative multi-coloured wave design and is certainly worth seeing. This side of Benidorm is much quieter, so great if you just want to relax and unwind. At the far end of Poniente you will find La Cala – which technically belongs to the town of Finestrat but everyone refers to it as Benidorm. The skyline is dominated by two buildings – the Gran Hotel Bali and the newly constructed ‘Intempo’ twin towers, with its gold clad frontage, rumoured to be the tallest residential building in Europe. Away from the beach you will find the La Marina indoor shopping centre – a great way to while away a few hours to enjoy some retail therapy whilst on the top floor there is a 10-pin bowling alley to keep the men and kids amused.

If you fancy a bit of a thrill head to Karting Finestrat – located behind the shopping centre on the mountain side with beautiful views over Benidorm.

The Old TownTHE OLD Town is located between the Levante and Poniente beaches, a far cry from the ‘British Square’ in the Rincon, that people associate with Benidorm. This area is like stepping back in time – full of narrow, cobbled streets adorned with white washed houses and an abundance of boutiques, bars and restaurants.

Head toward the blue-domed church and at the top you will arrive at the lookout point, or Mirador as the locals would say. The climb up to the top is certainly worth it for the wonderful view of both bays. On your way back down, stop off at the famous Tapas Alley – which as the name suggests is a street full of tapas bars. If you are fed up with pie and chips and fancy a real taste of Spain, this is where you should go.

The Old Town is also where you will find the Gay quarter – hugely popular for an alternative night out. A visit to the Rich Bitch Showbar and Kaffe Klee are a must if you appreciate drag humour and the many gay bars make everyone feel welcome and comfortable.

Mal Pas beach is located in the Old Town and it is from this harbour that you can catch a boat to both Tabarca Island and Calpe, great days out.

IT IS certainly the life and soul of the resort and where you will find all the nightlife.

The vast, sandy beach is lined with bars and restaurants which are lively to say the least. You will definitely find all your home comforts here such as all day British breakfasts, UK television in most bars and fantastic value food and drink.

During the day you are spoilt for choice of activities. Here you will find Aqualandia, the biggest waterpark in Spain and Mundomar, a marine animal park, both at the far end and next door to each other. For the adventurous there is the cable water ski which is found at the beginning of the Levante beach – great for adrenalin junkies.

One of the most breath taking views to be had of resort must be from the top of the Sierra Helada, often referred to as ‘The Hill’. Many holidaymakers trek up to the top, where you will find a Benidorm landmark: The Cross… just be aware

that it’s a good 45-minute trek to the top!Terra Mitica theme park is a great day trip with its

exciting rides and shows, suitable for the entire family and not far away you will find Wildlife Park Terra Natura and beside it Aqua Natura, a smaller waterpark more suited for younger children. For golfers, the magnificent Villaitana golf course offers two 18-hole courses with a view of the Benidorm skyline.

Every Saturday night and held all year round is The Circus. Starting at 6pm and located behind Benidorm Palace, you will be captivated for over two hours (children are not compulsory to attend!)

And for a first class night out you cannot beat Benidorm Palace – probably the most visited attraction in Benidorm

and you are guaranteed a night to remember with its magnificent show. The Rincon is where you will find all the

cabaret bars and nightclubs, open well into the early hours. With the bars brimming over every night you will be spoilt for choice as to where to head. Most of the bars offer free entertainment and you can hear and watch a huge variety of very talented people ranging from singers, tribute groups and comedians catering to all tastes. And last but not least, the legend - Sticky Vicky!

THE AREA often referred to as The Rincon is part of what is deemed the ‘New Town’, probably the most popular location with British holidaymakers.

What is Bicidorm?BICIDORM IS a system of loaning bicycles to promote efficient and healthy city transportation, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly commuting network. This is an experimental plan launched by the City, designed to reduce the use of cars and promote the use of non-motorised transport.

CYCLING HELPS:Reduce pollution - noise and all those nasty exhaust emissionsDevelop healthier transportation habits Reduce traffic, avoiding frustrating jamsReduce energy consumption

Reduce travel time within the city and increase the likelihood of punctual arrival Remove the stress connected with motorised traffic

WHAT IS BICIDORM NOT?Bicidorm is not a public bicycle rental

system for tourism or recreational use: it is a means of transport and an ideal complement to public transport within Benidorm, covering the small displacements that occur daily inside the city. For bicycle tours in and around Benidorm or weekend jaunts with friends there are plenty of stores dedicated to

bicycle rental in the city.

HOW DOES IT WORK?To qualify for a Bicidorm bike you need

to be older than 14 years and healthy. Simply download the registration form and terms of use at www.labici.net and follow the instructions. Remove your Bicidorm bike from any station (they are located at points all over the city) and away you go – the bike is yours for two hours.

You can also have a handy app for your Smartphone showing the locations of Bicidorm terminals.

Happy – and healthy – cycling!

cabaret bars and nightclubs, open well into the early hours. With the bars brimming over every night

View from ‘the hill’

see the sights

JANUARY 2015 15

Across: 1 Iota; 8 Strike dumb; 9 Pleasant; 10 Ante; 12 Efface; 14 Heeded; 15 Turret; 17 Saturn; 18 Isis; 19 Re-claims; 21 Above board; 22 Send.Down: 2 On all fours; 3 Asia; 4 Grease; 5 Sketch; 6 Adja-cent; 7 Able; 11 The Kremlin; 13 Abrasive; 16 Throbs; 17 Social; 18 Iran; 20 Adds.Wordwheel: COMPONENT

Crossword and Puzzle Solutions

Our mystery man on the street TAKES A sneaky look at the family run Old Town 3* Rocamar HotelWITH SO many big tourist hotels in Benidorm offering typical package style holidays, it can be hard to find a quality small B&B hotel that offers great service with pleasant rooms for those who prefer a quiet DIY holiday. The recently refurbished Rocamar hits the stop perfectly. Very deserving of it’s 3rd place in the top small hotels in Benidorm on Trip Advisor.

THE HOTELThe Rocamar is located right in the very heart of the old town just 50m from the Church and Plaza and

is therefore in the ideal place to soak up the atmosphere and incredible facilities right on the doorstep. Despite being where it is the Rocamar is also surprisingly quiet, given the “residents only” status of the surrounding streets, making for little traffic. On entering the hotel you are warmly welcomed (usually by one of the family) at reception which is a bit of an oasis of peace in the usually frantic Benidorm! Big leather sofas in reception are great to enjoy a bottle of wine before you hit the town!

THE ROOMSOffering just 29 rooms sleeping a maximum of 58 guests. Totally refurbished in 2011 all rooms offer great

very comfy beds, bright modern décor and bathrooms with walk-in showers. Most rooms have tiny balconies and facilities include a 32” TV, a mini fridge and room safe plus a full length mirror. NOTE: No English TV channels of course, but you can choose original language for lots of USA programmes.

THE BREAKFASTBreakfast is a very grand continental affair with an excellent selection of home

baked fresh pastries and even home baked breads! A great touch in these days of mass produced food. Fruit, cheese and sliced meats finish the more than adequate offering all washed down by good coffee. Served from 08:30 until 10:30 making for an unhurried civilised breakfast where you never need to push and queue for anything.

THE ROOF TERRACEIf you are in the mood for some quiet time sun bathing then the little roof terrace is

a real haven with sun beds and a great plunge pool/Jacuzzi. The roof offers views of the harbour and sea.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOWThe hotel is a rare gem in Benidorm and is perfect for those who like there holidays

with no fuss from holiday reps and animation teams and prefer non-English small hotels. Here you can enjoy peace and quiet where you can come and go as you please. Room rates are fantastic value with 7 nights B&B from only 145€ per person. The streets are closed to coaches so be prepared to walk 150m or so if you get a transfer shuttle.if you get a transfer shuttle.

Book this and over 200 hotels plus airport transfers by visiting www.realbenidorm.net

16 JANUARY 2015

See the sights1 PARC DE ELCHE

Better known to the Brits as ‘Dove Park’, it can be found at the beginning of Poniente Beach on the edge of the Old Town: a lovely, shady park area with plenty of palm trees. Here you can sit and ‘people watch’ with a massive population of white doves which you can feed – very popular with the Spanish.

PEACOCK ISLAND The giant rock jutting out directly in front of the Levante beach is ap 4 km from the shore. You can catch a glass bottomed boat from the marina at Mal Pas which gives you some amazing views of the reef and fish then explore the wildlife and bird population on the island.

BALCON DEL MEDITERRANEO Located up in the Old Town, right at the top and often referred to as the Mirador. A little bit of a steep climb but well worth it when you see the beautiful panoramic views of both the bays. You can also access it from Mal Pas beach where there is a staircase which leads all the way up. A very pretty blue and white tiled gazebo with seating makes a lovely backdrop for a photo and the square has a selection of bars so you can take in the stunning scenery.

TAPAS ALLEY If you are fed up of pie & chips and fancy a taste of the real Spain then head to Calle Santo Domingo – better known to all as “Tapas Alley” in the Old Town. The tapas are displayed behind glass and you can walk up and down pointing to whatever takes your fancy - the prices vary depending on which ones you choose but are generally between 1.50€ and 2.50€.

VIEWPOINT AT GRAN HOTEL BALI If you want to see Benidorm from a different perspective then pop to the Gran Hotel Bali in La Cala where you can go up to the panoramic view point on the 43rd floor - in a glass lift! Open from 11.00am until 13.30pm then again from 15.30pm until 21.30pm there is a 6 euros charge for non-residents, but you do get a drink at the viewpoint bar included – chlldren under 12 go free (1 per adult).

PONIENTE PROMENADE The brand new Poniente Promenade is the envy of every seaside resort and runs from the Old Town down towards La Cala. The promenade took over two years to complete and cost near on 20 million euros - but much of that was funding from the EU. The innovative multi coloured wave design won an architectural award and definitely worth seeing.

TERRA NATURA More of a wildlife park than a zoo, with three zones: America, Asia and Europe and you can see animals native to those Continents living within their natural environment with shrubs and plants from their natural habitat. There are plenty of interactive activities going on throughout the day such as feeding the animals and for the more adventurous you can even Zip Wire across a 400metre stretch above the elephant plain.

THE CROSS ON THE HILL A Benidorm landmark situated on the Sierra Helada mountains in the Rincon. The cross was erected in the 1950´s by residents and is 8 metres tall. A popular walk route taking ap 45 mins each way with breath taking views of the town.

the stunning scenery.

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Terra Natura – Buy 2 get 2 FREE!TERRA NATURA wildlife park in Benidorm is a must when here. The 32 hectare park is divided up into 3 zones; America, Asia and Europe so comfortable walking shoes are essential! Animals and plants typical of each continent can be seen within each region, making it not only an enjoyable visit but also an educational learning experience. The park runs a breeding programme for endangered animals and there are plenty of interactive activities going on throughout the day. The park is easy to get to – by public transport take the Llorente bus number 1 from anywhere along the Avd. Mediterraneo or the number 15 from La Cala or alternatively jump into a taxi (approximate 15 minute journey from the centre of Benidorm). RTN have an exclusive reader offer available – Buy 2 get 2 FREE. All you need to do is call into our office at Via Emilio Ortuño 6, floor 4, office 1 , by theside of ALE HOP on the walking street in the old town. Free invitations are limited so be quick if you don´t want to miss out.

see the sights

Benidorm offers so much moreBy Dave Gaskell – realbenidorm.net A VISIT to Benidorm can be so much more than simply sun, sea and Sangria. Of course there is plenty of the aforementioned in abundance. However, take a look around you and for those who like to discover a little local history whilst also keeping fit there is plenty to keep you occupied as a Benidorm weekender visitor.

A short Bus journey (No.3) from Park Elx (Bus Stop in front of Hotel Mar Blau) by the harbour will take you to the lovely bay of Cala de Finestrat, where high above the bay is a gem of walk up to the watchtower of Agulió on the peak of the hill. You cannot miss it! Part of the old coastal defences since the XVI century built to look out for invaders and latterly as part of a series of towers looking out for Smugglers avoiding payment of taxes to customs.

The walk is easy to medium difficulty and is best reached by taking the road to the far left (with your back to the beach) from where there is a newly laid path to the tower. With a few stops on the way to take in the stunning scenery or sit and enjoy a drink at one of the picnic tables, the walk should take just 25 minutes from the beach.

Once on the peak you can see almost a ¼ of the entire Land of Valencia toward Benidorm and Calpe in the north to Alicante and Villajoyosa in the south. This is one of the best kept secrets in the area with rarely another soul sharing the views and tranquillity with you. The phrase “Breath Taking” often misused by holiday brochures really does seem apt here, the scenery and views truly are breath taking. This is a perfect location to see the sunrise or the sunset.

For those who prefer a more vigorous walk, from the tower it is possible to continue the path too Villajoyosa and back, a very pleasant circuit of two and a half hours at a stroll. This is well signposted along the route and is known as the “Colada de la Costa”. Later head back to Benidorm for a much deserved evening meal and drinks on the terraces with plenty of time to contemplate your next Benidorm weekender.

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JANUARY 2015 17

See the sightsBENIDORM HARBOUR Various boat departures for an adventurous day out. From here you can catch the hourly glass bottomed boat to Benidorm Island which departs from 10am until 5pm. Or try the mini cruise to Calp which takes you on a picturesque tour of the coast, passing by Albir, Altea and some small hidden coves – a daily service departing Benidorm at 11.30am and returning from Calpe at 4.30pm. For the more adventurous how about a boat trip to Tabarca Island, sometimes referred to as ‘Flat Island’.

BENIDORM CIRCUS You will find ‘The Big Top’ behind Benidorm Palace - a well known landmark in the town. It has been a permanent fixture there for the last three years and can accommodate 850 people. The tent is totally wheelchair friendly with the installation of ramps for easy access to the ringside, with heating and air conditioning to ensure a comfortable evening. There are NO animals in any of the performances - the show is based around a dramatic mix of traditional circus acts but also incorporates highly skilled performers. In total there are 45 dancers and performers training three times a week for the weekly show: every Saturday evening starting at 6pm.

BENIDORM PALACE For a first class night out you cannot beat Benidorm Palace - voted Europe’s best cabaret theatre and nightclub for 2012, beating the likes of Moulin Rogue in Paris! It is probably the most visited attraction in Benidorm and you are guaranteed a night to remember. A magnificent show lasting 3 hours incorporates a troupe of dancers with the most amazing costumes you are ever likely to see.

CHURCH OF SAN JAIME AND SANTA ANA The distinctive blue domed roof is located up at the Mirador. Built in the 18th Century it is dedicated to the patron saint of the town and a statue of the Virgin del Sufragio can be seen inside the church. Last year the church controversially spent 332,000 euros on a new organ which takes pride of place in the gallery.

L’AIGUERA PARK Neoclassical designed park sandwiched between the Town Hall and bullring. It has two amphitheatres which during the summer months host shows, concerts and cultural Spanish events.

MARITIME CULTURAL CENTRE Located just past Elche Park heading towards Mal Pas Beach: contains interesting artifacts, models and pictures associated with the sea. Open Monday to Friday from 9am - 2pm then 4pm - 6pm. Saturday it is open mornings only and it is closed on Sunday: entry is free.

MUNDOMAR A marine animal park which also has exotic animals - a great hit, particularly with young families. There are lots of shows throughout the day and you can even book to swim with the sea lions or get up close to the dolphins. However, both of these need to be pre-booked. It is really easy to get to there: if driving the best place to head for is Benidorm Palace - then take the road almost opposite and it will take you all the way there - about a 2 minute drive. Parking is free. Or catch a public bus - either the number 1 or 11 - to take you straight to the entrance - but if there are four of you it will probably work out the same to take a taxi, especially if you are coming from Benidorm.

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Venus Venus 33Helios Venus Venus 33Helios 34Presidente Helios 34Presidente 35Riveria Beach Hotel Presidente 35Riveria Beach Hotel 36Rosamar Riveria Beach Hotel Riveria Beach Hotel 36

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Terra Natura – Buy 2 get 2 FREE!TERRA NATURA wildlife park in Benidorm is a must when here. The 32 hectare park is divided up into 3 zones; America, Asia and Europe so comfortable walking shoes are essential! Animals and plants typical of each continent can be seen within each region, making it not only an enjoyable visit but also an educational learning experience. The park runs a breeding programme for endangered animals and there are plenty of interactive activities going on throughout the day. The park is easy to get to – by public transport take the Llorente bus number 1 from anywhere along the Avd. Mediterraneo or the number 15 from La Cala or alternatively jump into a taxi (approximate 15 minute journey from the centre of Benidorm). RTN have an exclusive reader offer available – Buy 2 get 2 FREE. All you need to do is call into our office at Via Emilio Ortuño 6, floor 4, office 1 , by theside of ALE HOP on the walking street in the old town. Free invitations are limited so be quick if you don´t want to miss out.

Terra Natura – Buy 2 get 2 FREE!

Benidorm offers so much more

18 JANUARY 2015

Say HelloDuckie!OUR QUACKING reporter takes a fl ying visit to Playa Mal PasTHIS MONTH Duckie flew over to the Playa Mal Pas located by the harbour on the far side of the old town from the Levante. The ideal location during these Winter months when the weath-er can get a little chilly late afternoon. Offering the smallest of the three beaches of Benidorm is this lovely little cove sheltered from the wind by the rocky outcrop that once was the location of the Castle of Benidorm, long since lost to history.

Popular with regulars this superb beach is sure to guarantee an all over tan on those shorter sunny days we tend to get in January. Mind you avoid the sea as it really is quite freezing this timew of year. As the town is pretty quiet after the Christmas rush you are sure to find plenty of room to settle on the sand or rent a sun bed (4€) for the day for a more comfy option. Mal Pas is a favourite beach for Duckie who prefers to chill out here rather than head south for the Winter. This pretty beach can be much warmer then the Levante or Poniente beaches, here you can enjoy the last rays of sunshine for a little longer each day.

It can start to get a bit chilly from around 3.30pm, this is the best time to leave the beach and enjoy a stroll around the har-bour and head back up to the old town via Park Elx (Dove Park) where you will find lots to do and fabulous shopping along the pedestrian street. If you are feeling peckish stop at one of the café bars for a late lunch or afternoon coffee and cake.

See more of Duckie on facebook www.facebook.com/duckiertn or search Duckie RTN.

january 2015 19

markets MarketsLa nuciaAt the far end of town in the square op-posite the auditorium, but rather difficult to get to without a car.

aLteaTake the number 10 bus to the last stop and the market is on the next street – just follow the crowds.

BenidormHead towards the Hotel Pueblo and give yourself plenty of time if you want to see everything! There is also a market in the Old Town, located just behind the tram station.

ViLLa Joyosa / eL cisneThe bus service to Villa Joyosa is rather limited but it is worth visiting this beautiful town. Alternatively, El Cisne is a very popular flea market if you like to rummage and the bus stops right outside.

aLfaz deL pi & La caLaAlfaz has a great fruit and veg section at the far end and conveniently, the trusty number 10 will drop you off right at the start of the market. La Cala market is located not far from the Carrefour

hypermarket in Finestrat and you can catch the

number 2 bus from the centre

of Benidorm to get there.

La caLa & eL cisneLa Cala market is next to the beach. El Cisne rastro is a flea market and has free live music to keep you entertained whilst you enjoy a drink and snack at the bar.

Benidorm, La caLa, eL cisne & aLBirAnd also car boot type markets in La Nucia and Polop… you are really spoilt for choice on Sunday!

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Every day is market day!From fresh cooked chicken to Cha Cha heels!LA CALA Finestrat Saturday Market has it all and more…..

THE SATurdAy morning market in the bay at La Cala Finestrat has gone from strength to strength over the last couple of years. What was once a tiny and rather dull little market selling the usual range of shoes and handbags has grown into a fine place to buy fresh local Spanish fruit and vegetables, plus cheese, bread, and of course hams and delicious sliced sausages of all types.

This is a happy market, there is not the overkill found in the large Benidorm market which allow too many of the same type of stall. Here you will not find stall after stall all selling exactly the same thing. The pitch holders do not have that look of desperation often seen in other markets. There is a real feel of a local market frequented by people who live locally and not just a tourist trap kind of place. This market really deserves support, it is great.

you will find real variety here with a great mix of food, clothes and of course those obligatory look like the real thing handbags! you will not find those horrible “brown shoes only” stalls, instead you will find smart modern

(mostly fake) branded shoes for men and sparkly big Cha Cha heel shoes for ladies.

There are several of each type of stall, but each seems to sell very different stock. you will find really good handmade costume jewellery, a wonderful stall selling every type of olive you could imagine. There are beautifully colourful vegetable stalls, date stalls, melon stalls, fresh baked bread and simple seasonal cherry stalls. you can buy quality rugs, cheap knickers, beach beds, art and leather. For the peckish, enjoy a couple of makeshift cafés and a couple of popular ready to go spit roasted chicken vendors who will chop it, skin it and box it ready to eat (always big queues).

It is a real pleasure to spend a few hours here. Easy to park or take the regular bus No.2 or No.3 from central Benidorm. After a trip to this authentic local market there is a great beach to enjoy a dip in the sea or hop on the bus back to Benidorm old town for an authentic Spanish late lunch. Whatever yOu do, enjoy yOur Benidorm weekender.

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20 JANUARY 2015

see the sights

‘must do’ things when in BenidormONE THING is guaranteed when in Benidorm – you’ll never be bored. But with so many things to do and places to visit it can be confusing to know where to start. Here is our guide to what we consider to be the Top 5:

Top 5

TAPAS ALLEYIf you want a gastronomic experience head to Calle Domingo in the Old Town – it’s like eating a work of art.

VIEWPOINT AT GRAN HOTEL BALI See Benidorm from a different perspective then pop to the Gran Hotel Bali in La Cala where you can go up to the panoramic view point on the 43rd floor.

VALOR CHOCOLATE FACTORY Villajoyosa, on the outskirts of Benidorm is home to the famous Valor chocolate factory – Spain´s best selling chocolate brand.

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5THE CROSS ON THE HILLA Benidorm landmark situated on the Sierra Helada mountains in the Rincon. The cross was erected in the 1950´s by residents and is 8 metres tall. A popular walk route taking ap 45 mins each way with breath taking views of the town.

PARC DE ELCHE Better known to the Brits as ‘Dove Park’, it can be found at the beginning of Poniente Beach on the edge of the Old Town, make sure to feed the birds!

GuadalestSET AT 595m above sea level, the village of Guadalest hangs precariously to the mountain top and is rated as one of the most visited villages in Spain; and with good reason.

DATING BACK to the 8th Century, Guadalest is now home to just over 200 residents who invite you to step back in time and explore their fabulous village.

Guadalest was built by the Moors and stood as a fortified city until it was conquered by the Christians in the middle of the thirteenth century, turning the Moorish stronghold, into their own gaol. In June of 1644 a devastating earthquake destroyed the Castle of Guadalest who´s ruins can still be seen and the dungeon in the old village gaol offers an eerie silence to those who enter.

Steeped in history and being the cause of many battles, Guadalest now has more of a tranquil life. With its whitewashed houses and cobbled streets, Guadalest has become as famous for its arts, crafts and museums as it has its long and twisted history.

Set on Two levels, the lower of which is the newer part and is a maze of, cafes, bars & craft shops and museums, which are definitely worth a visit. To access the higher part, you need to pass through the mountain that has

been carved out making an entrance to the old fortified village. Guadalest offers stunning picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and turquoise blue reservoir that supplies lower towns, villages and even Benidorm with its supply of fresh water.

How to get there?Round Town Travel offer a weekly excursion to the

village that runs every Thursday, leaving Benidorm at 10:00 and returning approx 16:00. The trip costs just 15€ per adult and 12.50€ for kids and offers one of the best ways to see Guadalest as you will be accompanied by an English speaking guide who will point out points of interest to you and offer discounted entrance tickets to the museums and other places of interest when there. To book, please visit one of the Round Town Travel offices either on the Calle Gerona (opp the Western Saloon) or in the Rincon de Loix (opp the hotel Melia) or book by phone on 0034 966 867 294.

level, the village of Guadalest

to the 8th Century, Guadalest is now home been carved out making an entrance to the old fortified

SPAIN IS famous for its winemaking and arguably produces some of the worlds fi nest wines and the Costa Blanca is no exception.

Jalon Valley

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Places to visit asrecommended by RTN

PLACA DEL CASTELLIt’s a great place where you can see Benidorm’s beautiful skyline. Sometimes there are dancers, mar-ket stalls and people playing instruments.

BENIDORM PALACEA magnificent spectacle of colour with fabulous dancers and glamorous cos-tumes. Featuring a variety of original, top artistes from around the world, this will surely be an evening to remember.

PEACOCK ISLANDTake a boat ride from Benidorm to Peacock Island - a 30 minute trip on a glass-bottomed boat that allows you to observe the local sea life. Explore the island, and the beautiful view of the coastline and Benidorm bay.

MUNDOMARMundomar has an area of 60,000 square meters with a wide variety of ani-mals, such as flamingos, turtles and swans, storks, sea lions, seals. With numerous dif-ferent shows with parrots, sea lions and dolphins.

MORAIRAHeading out of Benidorm to the North, hugging the spectacular coastline as you go, you will pass through the villages of Albir, Altea, Mascarat & others, before arriving at the popular and cosmopolitan town of Moraira. This fantastic little place with its monumental castle on the beach and enormous mountainside villas, will offer you the perfect relaxing day away from bustling Benidorm. Living at the popular and cosmopolitan town of Moraira. This fantastic little place with its monumental castle on the beach and enormous mountainside villas, will offer you the perfect relaxing day away from bustling Benidorm.

Heading out of Benidorm

the beach and enormous mountainside

WITH ITS famous Blue Domed church, hand laid pebbled streets and whitewashed “picture postcard” houses, Altea couldn´t be further apart from Benidorm and to visit it, is like stepping back in time.

Altea is home to many artists who open up their homes to visitors as studios and galleries and it has the reputation of being one of the most photographed towns in Spain. To walk through its Moorish streets literally is like stepping back in time and the pace-of-life is noticeably more laid back than it´s “Manhattan skyline” neighbour, which is clearly visible from the “mirador” just off the town’s main square.

You can spend hours mooching the maze of tiny streets, each lined by pristinely white washed buildings that are homes to the local town-folk, stylish bars and restaurants or one of the many art and craft shops.

Being a traditional town, Altea still closes between the hours of 14:00 to 16:00 for siesta but once open again, you will find the shops, bars and restaurants bustling until the small hours of the morning. This definitely is a town that comes to life at night and is the setting for some of the Costa´s most impressive fiestas, such as the Moors & Christians, the fiestas of San Roque, to name but a few.

Altea also has a lower “sea level” that has endless stretches of pebbled beaches, lined with pleasant walkways, bars, restaurants, clothes and craft shops that lead from the fishing port right to the other side of the town, which is where you will find one of the regions largest street markets and is held each Tuesday.

How to get there?If you are travelling by car, Altea is just a 15-minute drive from Benidorm on the main N332 heading towards

Valencia and when there you will find lots of places to park. Probably the most convenient way to see Altea is by catching the number 10 bus that runs all day, every 15 minutes, from 07:00 to 23:30 and will cost just 1,50€ per person, per way.

APPROXIMATELY 10 km north of Benidorm, you will fi nd a piece of real Spain - the town of Altea.

DUE TO its altitude, protection from the mountains that surround it and the richness of its soil Jalon is one of the largest regions in Spain that produce the “Mosca-tel” wine, which is a sweet wine a little like sherry in its appearance and taste. The Muscat grape that produces the wine is also used to make raisins.Jalon is not just famous for its wines though. The valley is lined with Almond trees and in February and March when the trees blossom the sea of pink & white blossom that covers the valley draws people by the coach load to see the beautiful sight. On a Saturday Jalon plays host to one of the oldest and largest “rastros” (car boot sales) of the Costa that draws people from afar to rummage through the goods and antiques on sale and is also home to one of the finest British “Fish & Chip” shops to be found in this region.How to get there?Jalon is not on any of the major bus routes however, Round Town Travel offer a trip to the valley taking you to the winery and the rastro every Saturday at a cost of just 15€ per adult and 12.50€ for Kids. If you are going by car then take the N332 North, towards Calpe and then con-tinuing inland towards Benissa before turning off into the Valley itself and will take approximately 40 minutes.

Altea

22 JANUARY 2015

As Venus takes on Saturn a precedent is set whereby all unfinished business can be wound up, and those directions, closer to your heart, better solutioned. You care with a passion for what you feel is right, and the compromises that you have had to make can be swept away as wily Saturn uses strategies that appeal to a dreamy Venus.

Mars enters mid month, and brings order and power to your elbow. Always one to want the spiritual solution, the energy of power exposes you to a way forward that encompasses all your hopes, wishes and desires and which shows you in a different light. Go with the flow.You are getting the support that you both deserve and need now.

As the Sun shines in exalting your birth sign this month you will receive an unusual request that will lead to something further. You are balanced by the open energies of Mercury and directed onward by the great love and compassion of Venus. Anything could happen, so bring it on, and when the time comes your decision will be the right one.

There is some conflict within the Earth signs of the Zodiac at present. A pressure will shortly be removed without the need to further any action, and this heralds a good chance to additionally nip something in the bud whilst the time is right and the going is good. Beware of any signatures and contracts and double check all small print.

Fuelled by anger you are barking up the wrong tree if you really think that you are helping a situation with your inability to grasp and resolve a problem. You have a strong stubborn streak which gets things done, but a relationship issue begs for healing right now and it will bring you significant peace and a new depth of understanding.

Opposites can attract, and it is a warring Mars that takes on a highly charged, psychic, Pisces this month. You have abolished compromise in favour of getting to better understand the needs of others, and in this way anything now is in sympathy and truly ongoing; with no glitches or regrets as to what comes next; or simply what it could have been.

Fleeting romantic energies are inspired by your Planetary leader, Venus, and a dreamy and highly inspiring Aquarius. Above all the time has come in a relationship to be brutally honest, and there is a strong need to consolidate the way forward and enjoy the confidence that comes by knowing that you have the same goals that have to be scored.

You really need to look within if you want the quickest solution to an irritating problem. You will find out that you have allowed things to get on top of you, but you are truly the best person to sort things out so that everyone is happy The midmonth Mercury aspect with Saturn brings in the past, and this, be warned, you do not need to repeat.

As the Sun favours your birthsign in fortunate Jupiter this is a golden opportunity to change directions and to summon all your positive energy to do so. As a new project beckons, it also needs your tender loving care and expertise to succeed. As for the opinion of others, there is something you know that they do not, so, above all, keep them guessing.

The Venus opposition to Jupiter midmonth brings you a chance to catch up with your new routine, and opens the doors on the next dimension of work yet to be done. Hesitation and doubt is removed by the wacky luck and good fortune supplied by an ebullient Jupiter, whereas your loving commitment to the job in hand is handled by Venus.

Mercury is calmed and soothed by the energy of Aquarius, and it is easy to see the immediate alternatives in a scheme that you are involved in. If you allow patience to show you the way forward then you have the communicative process brought about by hard working Mercury to boot, which, for you, will be very much the icing on the cake!

Venus trysts with mighty Uranus and it would seem you have some work to do. Although the time hasn’t been right you also haven’t had the green light on something that niggles to be completed but that which will take up a lot of your energy in the due process. If this is really what you want to do go for it, but please don’t waste any more time.

horoscopesKenny Corris

For Readings, Consultations and Castings email: kennycorris@hotmail.com / www.kennycorris.net

Mobile: 686 361 594 / Tel: 965 878 424

Quick Crossword

Sudoku

Word Ladders

Wordwheel

All answers can be found on page 15.

ACROSS1. Jot (4)8. Silence by surprise (6,4)9. Agreeable (8)10. Stake (4)12. Rub out (6)14. Took notice (6)15. Small tower (6)17. A planet (6)18. A goddess (4)19. Wins back (8)21. Honestly open (5,5)22. Dispatch (4)

DOWN2. Crawling (2,3,5)3. A continent (4)4. Lubricate (6)5. Drawing (6)6. Contiguous (8)7. Competent (4)11. Moscow citadel (3,7)13. Rough (8)16. Pulsates (6)17. Gregarious (6)18. Middle Eastern country (4)20. Joins (4)

Doodle box

The key rule is that you must only change one letter at a time as you move from one rung to another, and the word you make must be a proper word! Therefore you may move from BATH --> BATS but not from BATH --> CASH because that changes two letters in one go which is not allowed.

JANUARY 2015 23

nightlife

The BenidormShow Guide

Acts and times subject to change without notice. To include your act email: rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

Comedy

Welcome to RTN’s monthly Show Guide. Here you will fi nd different acts for all tastes, for the young and the old. Enjoy your night!

Tribute acts VENUE DAY TIMEAbba Nights Morgans Tavern Wed/Sat 9pm Adele Stardust C/Gerona Mon/Tues/Fri/ Sat/Sun 9pm Morgans Tavern C/Gerona Tues/Thurs/Sat 8pm Tropical Avd.Severo Ochoa Every Thursday 9pm Riviera Lounge Every Tuesday 10pmBay City Rollers Morgans Tavern C/Gerona EEvery Thursday 12amBee Gees Stardust C/Gerona Every Night 11.45pmCarpenters Zodiac Every Night 8.45pm El Divo Morgans Tavern C/Gerona Fri/Sun 11pm Meatloaf Sinatras Every Night 12amMichael Buble Stardust C/Gerona Every Night 9pmOne Vision (Queen) Morgans Tavern C/Gerona Mon/Tues 11pmQueen Sinatras Every Night 9pmRodfather Morgans Tavern C/Gerona Mon/Wed/Sat 12amShoewaddywaddy Sinatras Every Night 10pm

KaraokeRovers Return Every NightWooky Hollow 1 Every Night Robbie James 11pmQueen Vic Fri-Sun 10pmRockys Every Night From 8pmBlack Chicken Every NightLast Stop Every Night From 9pmOutback Every Night From 8pmGallowgate Every Night From 9pmVincents Old Town Every Night 9pm

ACT VENUE Albi Senior Zodiacs E/N10.00pm Rockafellas E/N 11.30pm Chubby Brown Red Lion E/N 12amGareth Fulton Zodiacs E/N 1.00am Red Lion E/N 9.15pm Gary George Zodiacs E/N 11.15pmTony Scott Stardust E/N 10.15pmMartin Kent Valentines E/N 9.30pm

The Adele TributeSINGER ADELE must have one of the most recognizable female voices worldwide and Aisha Nicole certainly does her justice with an incredible tribute to the award winning singer / songwriter. If you never have the opportunity to go and she the lady herself then you certainly won´t go away feeling cheated or disappointed after hearing Benidorm´s Aisha Nicole. This is her fourth season performing the Adele Tribute and she feels blessed doing something she loves. Born in Sheffield but grew up in Northamptonshire, Aisha´s family moved to Spain 18 years ago. She has always had a passion for singing which is evident when you discover that she was down to the last 500 to audition for Atomic Kitten just before moving here – testament to her phenomenal voice even back then. After finishing her secondary schooling here she worked in the family business – her parent were in the hospitality industry back in the UK and opened a successful bar and restaurant (Two Palms in the Old Town) when they moved to Benidorm. She took a year out and worked in an estate agent but hankered to get back to her one true love – singing. Prior to her Adele tribute she went on tour around Spain as a backing singer to an ¨ABBA´ show with friend and fellow entertainer Leah – who now does the Mother Monster tribute to Lady Gaga. Aisha´s voice has not gone unnoticed – she has been invited to the auditions for the BBC talent show The Voice every year, it is now in its fourth year and also scouted twice for X-Factor from a clip seen of her on the video sharing website YouTube! Aisha Nicole should certainly be on your list – as soon as you hear her belting out ´Skyfall´, the opening track of her show you will be spellbound by her sensational voice. Her personal favourite is ´I can´t make you love me´ and she closes her show with ´Someone like You´ followed by the award winning ´Rolling in the Deep´ - the song which turned Adele into a pop superstar in the USA. Aisha is eagerly awaiting the release of Adele’s new album later this year to give her some new material although she said that often the audience are keen to just hear the popular well known hits. You can catch the Adele Tribute at 8pm in Morgans Tavern on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; 9pm in Stardust on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday; Tropical every Thursday at 9pm and Riviera Lounge every Tuesday at 10pm. To find out more and keep updated follow her on Facebook: Adele Tribute Benidorm

VENUE DAY/TIME

Sticky Vicky Red Lion C / Gerona Every Night 11.45pm

Zodiacs C / Gerona Every Night 12.30am

Horrors Sisters Klee Kafee Wed & Sunday 10.15pm

Sheila Blige Klee Kafee Mon & Thurs 10.15pm

Agatha & Carlotta Klee Kafee Tuesday 10.15pm

Agatha Klee Kafee Friday 10.15pm

Colin Campbell Klee Kafee Saturday 10.15pm

Coco Chanel Sinatras Every Night 11pm

VENUE DAY/TIME

Sticky Vicky Red Lion C / Gerona Every Night 11.45pm

Zodiacs C / Gerona Every Night 12.30am

Horrors Sisters Klee Kafee Wed & Sunday 10.15pm

Sheila Blige Klee Kafee Mon & Thurs 10.15pm

Agatha & Carlotta Klee Kafee Tuesday 10.15pm

Agatha Klee Kafee Friday 10.15pm

Colin Campbell Klee Kafee Saturday 10.15pm

Coco Chanel Sinatras Every Night 11pm

VENUE DAY/TIMEDrag & Sexy

Entertainer of the month - Aisha Nicole

24 january 2015

nightlife

The Blues Brothers ExperienceNOT JUST a show…this is a party! This Blues Brothers Experience is accumulating fans rapidly, not just in Benidorm but throughout the Costa Blanca, with their unique interpretation based on the great movie of the 80s. Probably the most energetic show you will see this year. This is not just a show, this is a party. Join Jake and Elwood as they take you through the classic songs of the movie but expect a few surprises! For details or bookings call 672 983 060 or visit Facebook: The Blues Brothers Experience, Benidorm.

Every Saturday - Tropical Bar, 11pm Every Wednesday - Riviera Music Lounge, 11pm Every Thursday - Tropical Bar, 11pmFriday 9th - Jail Rock Bar, 10pmSaturday 10th - Jail Rock Bar, 10pm Sunday 11th - Hotel Flamingo Oasis, 10pmMonday 12th - Hotel Regente, 11pm

Tuesday 13th - Hotel Rio Park, 10pmTuesday 13th - Ambassador Hotel, 11pm Thursday 22nd - Hotel Riudor, 10pmSunday 25th - Hotel Flamingo Oasis, 10pmMonday 26th - Hotel Regente, 11pmTuesday 27th - Hotel Rio Park, 10pmTuesday 27th - Ambassador Hotel, 11pm

BOOKINGS FOR JANUARY

JANUARY 2015 25

nightlife

A great night out... bed by midnight!WITH SO many golden old-ies and silver surfers in town Benidorm does early too.THIS TIME of year Benidorm finds itself with huge numbers of retired folks who head south to Spain for a long stay Winter warmer and the local entertainment scene rises to the occasion to provide fabulous shows and fantastic acts a bit earlier than in high season.

CATCH THE VERY BEST OF BENIDORM FROM 9PMThe heart of the cabaret scene in Benidorm “The

Square” and the streets surrounding the area are where you will find most of the big names of comedy, music and tribute acts.

Whilst many shows are curtain up notoriously late, as it is Winter you can catch some fantastic shows at the earlier time of around 9pm giving you plenty of time to see another act before heading back to your hotel for a

midnight tipple before bed.

EARLY DOORS COMEDYPop along to see GARETH FULTON on stage and after pop up

the road to see ALBI SENIOR or DAME LUCY BUN & REG.

EARLY DOORS TRIBUTE ACTSIf you love the big names then Benidorm has the very best

tribute acts in the business and whilst many are late night acts you can still enjoy some mighty fine shows early evening.

EARLY DOORS SINGERSSinging popular songs we all love go see DEB N HER. If

country and western is your thing then a trip to the Western Saloon also in Calle Gerona.

EARLY DOORS KARAOKEPrefer to be the entertainer? Then there are some great

venues where you can be the star for an hour or two then catch an act elsewhere and still be back to your hotel for that midnight tipple before bed! From 9pm the popular Queen Victoria pub is a friendly venue for Karaoke nights and in the old town the Intimate English Bar in Calle La Palma is a long established intimate venue popular with golden oldies. Also in the old town Vincents in Calle Mercat both from 9pm. If you still feel like shaking your booty in the old town then get down to Klee Kafee in Calle del Pal for free drag shows from 10pm. Then it is off to bed ready to do it all again tomorrow until the wee early hours!

NOTE: Acts and times subject to change without notice during the Winter season.

JANUARY 2015JANUARY 2015 2525

january 2015 27

Smokey Joe’sBenidorm Old Town

SMOKEY JOE’S offers a wide variety of home cooked meals, starting at 10am with their famous breakfasts from as little as 3.50€. And they serve Spanish and English coffee.

The main menu covers anything from toasties to flame grilled steaks - all done with Smokey Joe’s touch, which means everything is cooked over the coals. They also specialise in Texas style ribs, burgers and combos - again with the Smokey Joe’s touch. A speciality of the house, and unique to Smokey Joes, is their Pulled Pork Burgers which have to be tasted to be believed!

Finally a must is their Sunday lunch: choose from five meats and a full complement of fresh vegetables served from 1pm till 6pm.

How to find us: along the Levante Beach toward the Old Town. Turn right at Burger King through the alley and we are there on the left, or, top of the Mediterraneo bear left opposite McDonalds and we are just down from Blue Shoes.

Two PalmsBenidorm Old Town

Due to popular DemanD two palms now open for lunches

monday - saturday from 1pm (closed tuesday)3 Courses 8.95€2 Courses 7.95€ Main course only from 5.95€

selection of main courses roast pork Dinner - shepherds pie - pork chops - fish in homemade Batter with homemade chips & mushy peashomemade lasagna with salad & Garlic Bread - casserole of the Day - homemade curry chicken - chicken Breast fillet with homemade Bbq sauce - Braised liver & onions - pork schnitzel topped with mushrooms onions melted cheese parmesan chicken - chefs Dish of the Day

(All main meals served with homemade chips or potato & fresh vegetables)

prices only applicable at lunchtime 1pm - 4pm

call on 617 702 535 or 96 683 0718 for reservations.

Tapa of the month

Rias BaixasBenidorm Old Town

rÍas BaiXas was established in february 1979, currently under the management of pedro Juan Vicente and Juan Vicente Brotons. this popular restaurant enjoys a great location on levante Beach with wonderful sea views from its large and comfortable terrace.

Delicious cuisinethe cuisine has been developed using a selection of only the finest and freshest of local ingredients that lend an authentic and natural flavour to traditional soups and spanish dishes such as paella and arroz a Banda as well as freshly caught seafood, delicious steaks, chicken and lamb specialities.

fresh seafooDlenguado, emperador, merluza and salmón come directly from the port, expertly prepared and served with crisp salads and fresh local vegetables.

rias Baixas is at plaza torreon, 3, Benidorm: email restaurante@riasbaixasbenidorm.comor call 96 585 5022 / 96 586 8702.

Sports Bar & Grill International CuisineTraditional Spanish Cuisine

food & drink

El PuertoBenidorm Old Town

FROM RESTAURANTE Marisqueria in The Port comes a typically favourite dish of the Valencian community…

Seafood Paella consists mainly of rice, fresh fish and seafood (shrimp, crayfish, mussels and clams). Or the dish can be tailored to customers’ preference to include mixed meats, chicken and rabbit to suit the client.

Marisqueria’s dishes are prepared with

only the freshest of ingredients and the results are delicious!

And in addition to delicious paellas the restaurant serves an outstanding variety of seafood and meats: T-bone steak, the famous ‘Entrecote’ or sirloin steak and wonderful speciality dishes.

In a perfect location near the port with a

beach front setting, the restaurant is next to Elche Park and between Benidorm’s two most popular beaches at Paseo de Colon: Call 96 585 3796 for more information or to make a reservation.

Seafood

Gambas RevueltasinGreDientsBread, Eggs, Wild Mushrooms, Peeled prawn, Allspice, Chives, Red pepper, Mojama, Salt, Beet Sprouts, Olive Oil preparationScramble the eggs before adding the wild mushrooms and peeled shrimp. Seasoned with salt and the Allspice is made. Roast the Red Pepper and serve on the toasted bread with a side dish of the Mojama, Beet Sprouts and Chives. Dress with Olive Oil.

accompaniment Try ‘Agustí Torrelló Mata. Trepat Rosado’, a pink Cava from Barcelona: Graduation: 11.5%: Grape varieties: 100% Trepat.Clean and bright, an attractive cherry pink with bright violet reflections. Fine and persistent bubbles, middle course, with an abundant formation of bubbles and a dense crown. Fresh on the nose, dominated by wild fruits, highlighting strawberry on a background of mint. Characterful, fresh and complex at the same time: meaty yet light, noting especially the red berries and strawberry - a perfect pairing for this pincho.

28 january 2015

food & drink

Granny’s Tea HouseBenidorm Old Town

Believe it or not Granny’s tea House has been in Benidorm (Old town) since 1981, you´ll find us near Dove Park, tucked away just off the walking street, going towards the church. At this quaint little traditional tea House you will be able to sample a choice of main meals, snacks including the all time favourites, Cottage Pie, Spaghetti Bolognaise, Chilli con Carne, Spicy Spare Ribs, various Jacket Potatoes, and so much more.

the Quiche lorraine and Sausage Rolls are to die for, as are the DeeP Apple Pies and the (O.M.G.) lemon Meringue, and of course the ever famous Scones, which you might like to try as a Granny´s special creamed tea. But if it´s just a hearty breakfast that your looking for, you´ve come to the right place, be sure to try the All Day Full english Break-fast which is served with juice, toast and a proper pot of tea. Granny´s is open from 9.30am till 5.30pm, but closed on Sundays.

Calle San vicente 8, Old town Benidorm, the last but one street off the main walking street going towards the Park de elche.

O’Maras Benidorm Old Town

lOnG eStABliSHeD British bar, O’Maras, in the Old town of Benidorm, has just undergone a major refurbishment and is now open.

Dave, Jan and ian are pleased to welcome customers old and new to their bar, which offers a menu of typical British pub fare as well as a good english breakfast. in fact it is often said that “they don’t serve fast food, they just do good food as fast as they can”.

Apart from the large regular menu, O’Maras serves up a daily “specials” board, and is also well known for their excellent Sunday lunches, and a word to the wise, booking in advance to avoid disappointment will ensure you a seat.

Behind the bar there is a large selection of imported beer and spirits as well as local stock. to add to the friendly atmosphere, all your favourite music plays from the 50’s to present day, and all the major sports events are shown on 3 big screen televisions. the bar is open from 10am till late and food is served from 10am till 10pm. Find O’Maras Bar at C/ Quatro esquinas 9, Old town Benidorm or phone 965 862 134.

Traditional English meals

Peggy Sue’S Restaurant takes you back to 1950’s America. Decorated as Retro deco you can listen to retro music and enjoy a unique experience. Diners can choose from hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches, cakes and milkshakes with high quality ingredients. Also to try is our delicious Black Angus Sirloin with fries or salad. The team is friendly and the atmosphere is very relaxed, you can also play with the jukebox at your table.

Peggy Sue’s also do home delivery or you can place your order on our website.

We are open Sunday to Thursday 1.30pm – 11.30pm and Friday & Saturday 1.30pm – 00.30. Our kitchen is always open!

Restaurant Peggy Sue’s BenidormAvda. Ruzafa, 1103501 BenidormTlf: 966 812 327www.peggysues.eswww.facebook.es/peggysuesTwitter: @yosoypeggysue

Peggy Sue’s Benidorm Old Town

Food from America

Al TerrazzoBenidorm Old Town

RuN By Paolo and Mira since 2006, Al Terrazzo specialises in typically Italian dishes - everything homemade from mouth-watering Lasagnes to Canelones, fantastic pizzas and Al Terrazzo’s delightful speciality, Aubergine Parmigianas.

The classic Menu del Dia includes the best pastas and pizzas in town.

And superb Sirloin or Rump Steaks are served with a selection of Italian sparkling wines, followed with a wicked dessert… even the Limoncello is homemade!

The ambience is friendly, intimate and intrinsically Italian.

To reserve your table call 688 299 339.

A warm welcome awaits at Al Terrazzo, conveniently located at C/ Bon Retiro, in the heart of the old town.

Home-made Italian Food“The” One & Only Tea House

january 2015 29

food & drink

Cafe Moai Levante Beach Front

THE MOAI Café in Benidorm’s East Beach is

welcoming the festive season with special

Christmas prices for groups. Specialist

cocktails as well as favourite traditional

tipples are on the menu right through

to New Year’s Eve with some irresistible

bargains to be had.

Famous for its mouth-watering burgers,

Mexican Nachos and crisp, fresh salads,

be sure not to miss their delicious English

breakfast accompanied by coffee or tea!

The service is great, the food is delicious

and the sea view is to die for!

Open from 9am until 4am, you will find

the Moai Café next to the Old Town beach

lift: call 96 585 7688, email

moai-playadelevante@hotmail.com or see

Facebook moai-playadelevante for more

details.

Good food & cocktails

Devil’s CockBehind Levante Beach

The new lovely venue in town is Devil’s Cock: Italian bar restaurant owned and managed by Italians, deeped into nature, far from noise and pollution of the streets.

Open from 1pm till late, food is served all day long. The Italian chef offers the authentic traditional tasteful home-made Italian food, mouthwatering at first sight, prepared with fresh Italian ingredients: Carbonara, Matriciana, authentic home made Lasagna, Bolognesa and so much more.

They also cater for the english with a typical english breakfast starting from only 2.50€. Also to try is the fantastic cheeseburger with a 200gr. (0.88 lbs) of Irish black angus burger and fries for only 3.90€; or the unique-in-town double cheeseburger: 400gr. (1.76lbs) of Irish black angus burger for only 5.60€.

From the bar: some of the best coffee in town, the tea is always served with in a teapot and choosen by you from several different types, international long drinks and cocktails, a very good choice of wine from Spain; and Prosecco, Lambrusco, Frascati, Barbera, Chianti and others directly from Italy. On Monday we give away the true draft Mahou beer with the happy Monday: 1 pint 1€, 2 pints at same time 1.50€. For reservations call: 0034 698 396 961. www.facebook.com/devilscock write down a review in TripAdvisor and/or Foursquare.

Traditional Italian Food

Hotel BabylonBenidorm Old Town

THE HOTEL Babylon in the Old Town of Benidorm now offers a take away service from its restaurant till 2 in the morning.

This innovation has come about due to the lack of quality take away food in the local area late at night where there is a lively entertainment scene and an abundance of hungry revellers.

There is a wide selection to choose from including Burgers, Sarnies, Omelettes, Curry, Chilli, Wraps, Chicken Wings, Salads, Shish Kebab and even an All Day Breakfast.

Add to this, a free local delivery service and reasonable prices, The Hotel Babylon is well worth a visit.

Find them at Calle Alicante 28, Old Town Benidorm, next to O’Mara’s Irish Bar or call 965 865 019 to place your order.

Take Away Service

Royal Queens Hotel - Benidorm Old Town

A royal welcome at the Royal Queens Hotel OWNER LUIS and his partner Patrick, a well-known character of the Old Town, extend a warm welcome to guests and visitors at the Royal Queen’s hotel, a local favourite right in the centre of Benidorm’s popular Old Town at the top end of the famous Tapas Alley in Plaza Constitution. The Royal Queens has 35 rooms, a bar, two terraces and a fabulous air-conditioned restaurant with great food and wonderful ambience. The Menu del Dia changes weekly and there is also an A La Carte menu – delicious food at reasonable prices. The nightly cabaret stars the Queens Show Girls: a mix of glamour and humour. no cover charge either – a fun and amusing way to spend an evening! And the roof terrace commands a spectacular view of the Costa Blanca’s prettiest city…

FESTIVE PACKAGESChristmas: two nights at 99€ includes a Gala Lunch New Year: two nights at 90€ includes a Gala Dinner. The Royal Queens - truly the gem in the Old Town’s Crown. Call 96 681 29 96 or visitwww.queensbenidorm.com

Menu Del Dia & A La Carte

30 january 2015

food and drink

Fabulous FoodQuaffable Wine and Dine for only 1€!MOST VISITORS to Benidorm are usually aware of the famous Tapas Alley located around two streets in the heart of the Old Town. However, given the current trend for finding value places to eat and drink fuelled by the gloom created by the media, here are two of the top venues to eat and drink quality from 1€.

Tiny prices do not usually make for a quality experience, but these great eateries favoured by many ‘in the know’ do not cut down on the quality of the product. Judging by the numbers coming and going at all hours of the evening, these great Tapas bars are full of atmosphere and offer a genuine ‘Tapas Experience’ at prices that are indeed very happy!

100 MONTADITOSCalle Pal is on the same street as the Rich Bitch Showbar and Klee Kafee.A ‘montadito’ is the name of the small bread rolls made just for filling with

Tapa and ‘100 Montaditos’ knows exactly how to do this well. Located all over Spain since 2001, they offer quality Tapas where you can choose from a selection of 100 delicious fillings from 1€ to 1.50€ for premium fillings and wash it all down with a 1€ ½ litre of Mahou draught beer or a ½ litre

of Tinto Verano for 1.70€. All you need to do here is find a seat, fill out your order, take it to the bar, pay and wait for your selection to be made. If you cannot be bothered to select from the menu they offer a mixed plate from 6€. Visit on their special Euromania Days (Wednesday and Sunday) when every Tapa, including the premium

selection, is 1€. You might have to wait!100 Tapas from 1€ and ½ litre Mahou 1€ (Wednesday & Sunday ALL

Montaditos 1€)

TAPITA: OFF AVENIDA ALCOI (LEVANTE BEACH FRONT)LocATED juST off the Levante Beach (Toward the old town end, turn into the little square between Burger King and M47 Modas, the big dress shop with the pink sign) this is a family run business with a big terrace and fantastic selection of around 30 freshly prepared tapas.

Everything is on show - just choose and point at whatever you feel like tasting. Their mini Paella and warmed Goats Cheese are personal favourites. ALL tapa are just 1€ each with a very quaffable glass of white, red or rosé. And you can upgrade to a nice Rioja for 50 cents more. For the hungry they also specialise in superb

sharing plates of cheese, Iberia ham, baby squid and a fine selection of traditional Spanish fare from 5€ a portion.

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food and drink

There’s nowhere better to go for a snack than to a spanish bar or restaurant but you might feel a bit nervous if you don’t know what all the words mean, and how everything is done. of course there’s no harm in heading for the nearest english-run burger bar but it´s such a pity when people come to spain and never enjoy the experience of real spanish food.

If you just want a light snack, the best place to go is a bar that serves tapas. when you put your head round the door, you will see rows of glass covered display cabinets along the counter containing a variety of tasty morsels. There will probably be pickled anchovies called anchoas; a kind of mayonnaise salad with tuna called ensaladilla; there might be some meat balls called albondigas, and almost certainly some potato omelette called tortilla. Bars often have their own specialities, and there’s nothing stopping you trying some out by pointing to them and saying “un poco de esto, por favor”, (a little of this one, please). having ordered your snacks and drinks you can go and sit at a table as the waiter will bring them over to you, along with a plate, fork and serviette for each person and a basket of bread. It’s not usual to serve butter with bread in spain, but the bread is so good it doesn’t really need any.

Another thing about spanish eating places is that there is rarely any pressure to get rid of you, or to take your money. You can feel free to take the time you wish to relax, chat, order another

beer, buy an ice-cream for the kids, have a cup of coffee and pay for the whole lot together as you leave. To call the waiter over you need to catch his eye and say “perdón” quite loudly, but without shouting! These kinds of bars may look disorganized, but there will be a note somewhere near the till of everything you have ordered. Before you leave you can say the traditional “La cuenta por favor” (the bill please) or if you’ve only had a few things it’s quite common to say “¿me cobras?” (will you charge me?) or simply ¿Cuánto es? (how much is it?)

here are some more useful phrases to get you in the mood.

“Una mesa para dos” – A table for two.“La carta por favor” - The menu please.“Para mi” – for me“Lo mismo” – the same“Otro” – another one“Nada más, gracias” – nothing else, thank you“Está bien” – it’s good.“No está bien” – it’s not good.

And last but not least - “¿Dónde está el baño?” – where is the bathroom? By the way, the ladies has an “s” on the door for “señoras” and the gents has a “C” for “caballeros” – always good to know that sort of thing in advance to avoid embarrassment.

Eating out and speaking SpanishSo, you’ve arrived for your visit to Spain, got to where you’re going to stay, settled yourself in and now perhaps you fancy popping out for a bite to eat.