SpainLifestyle BLOG

CARNIVAL TIME IN MORAIRA * FUN IN THE SUN

2012-02-19T17:49:00.000+01:00

STORMS & AFTER THE FEBRUARY STORMS

2012-02-13T12:00:00.000+01:00

CHRISTMAS DAY MORNING AT EL PORTET BEACH

2011-12-31T14:17:00.000+01:00

It is a local custom to gather your goodies together and go to the beach to meet up with friends and neighbours. This year offered some fun surprises with Santa characters coming in by kayak :0

EL PORTET BEACH AT SUNSET - DECEMBER 2011

2011-12-31T13:54:00.000+01:00

One of the most protected cove beaches is El Portet - Moraira. The sun warms the beach and even in the holiday season tourists take to the water. However, for us lucky enough to live here, we settle in to watch the gorgeous sunsets over the western sky.

DECEMBER VIEWS DOWN CUMBRE DEL SOL COASTLINE

2011-12-31T11:23:00.000+01:00

This is the view from the bottom of our street. Everytime I come here to the lookout, which is also a park, I am overwhelmed at the beauty of this marvelous place.

NOVEMBER DENIA BEACH AFTER STORM

2011-11-27T14:42:00.002+01:00

A November Day at Denia Beach with our Dogs

double click on any photo to see large photo exhibit

NOVEMBER 2011

2011-11-06T18:46:00.001+01:00

November opened with stormy skies. Our coastal Spanish skies are always very dramatic during these types of days. It is a good time break out the wind breakers and get down to the beach for some maximum oxygen.

Cumbre del Sol never disappoints when it comes to taking amazing photos. The light, even under cloudy skies, produces an incredible range of hues. And, of course so does the sea and earth.

Our beach bar is still open, so we had better enjoy a cafe con leche.

Enjoy my pictures :) karla
DOUBLE CLICK TO ENLARGE THE PHOTOS

SAVING SPAIN'S TREASURES DURING THE CIVIL WAR

2011-11-03T13:29:00.004+01:00

In a difficult and risky mission, a committee formed by the persons responsible of the European and American museums worked together to save Spanish Works of art during Spain's Civil War.

Works of art from the Prado Museum, the Academy of Fine Arts in San Fernando, the Escorial, the Royal Palace, National Library and those owned by the Church as well as those from prívate collections, started a journey that took them through different Spanish cities and ended up in Geneva, where they were protected until the end of the war.

This whole adventure was possible thanks to the Directors from several museums who formed in 1939 the International Committee for the Safeguarding of Spanish Art Treasures, and assumed the responsibility of organizing the shipment and care of the works of art. Seventy-one buses trucks crossed the French border with the treasures.

These photos were on display at an outdoor exhibition in Albir Playa - Alicante.

DOUBLE CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

ZARAGOZA BASILICA - FROM MIRACLE TO MIRACLE

2011-09-12T09:37:00.001+02:00

The Basilica-Cathedral of Our Lady of the Pillar is a spectacular Roman Catholic church in the city of Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
Its historical roots tell a story of a miracle whereby Saint James was preaching the Gospel in Spain and on the 2nd of January 40 AD, while he was deep in prayer by the banks of the Ebro, the Mother of God appeared to him and gave him a small wooden statue of herself and a column of jasper and instructed him to build a church in her honor.

Today, the splender of that church encompasses a bit of each culture and generation from Romanesque to Mudéjar Gothic to Baroque. During the Spanish Civil War of 1936–1939 three bombs were dropped on the church but miraculously - none of them exploded.

PALACE IN ZARAGOZA IS A BEAUTIFUL CLASH OF CULTURES

2011-09-06T09:52:00.000+02:00

The Aljafería Palace is the perfect example of how Islamic and Christian cultures merged to create beauty. The Mudéjar art in Aragón is a direct consequence of the singular nature of the Christian Reconquest, in the early 12th century, of territories that had been dominated by the Moors since the 8th century. For various practical and political reasons, the Christians allowed the Moors to remain on the reconquered territories and keep their own culture and religion. On the other hand, Islamic art fascinated the Christians, who continued using its themes for a long time. Because of this cohabitation, many Islamic buildings were preserved, such as the Aljaferia Palace in Zaragoza.

VILAFAMÉS REIGNS REGAL IN RED

2011-09-04T10:11:00.000+02:00

Located in the Province of Castellón, Villafamés occupies a strategic position on top of a hill that is part of the northern end of the mountain range - Sierra de les Conteses.

The earliest evidence of occupation of Vilafamés are based on archaeological finds from the Middle Pleistocene period - called "Homo erectus vilafamensis" some 80,000 years ago.

The Castle that tops the village has Arab foundations but once conquered by King Jaime 1 in 1233 it has undergone various reforms throughout its history.

DAROCA IMPRESSES WITH BOLD & GLORIOUS HISTORY

2011-08-31T09:04:00.002+02:00

Daroca is a bold fortress town that once held great power as the midway point between the two great Roman cities of Valentia (Valencia) and Caesaraugusta(Zaragoza). El Cid, marched victoriously at Darocas with his troops after a campaign against the Moors. And a Holy Miracle launched the building of a Holy Relic Church to house a blood stained cloth found after another victorious battle against the Moors. Now, many centuries later, it is a great place to explore and have lunch at the fine dining restaurant at the local hotel.

The video below the photos shows an aerial view of the massive fortress walls that once protected this vital town.

ROMAN RUINS REMAIN IN SAGUNTO

2011-08-28T09:08:00.001+02:00

Sagunto is just a short drive north of Valencia city and if you need to believe that Rome once ruled these parts, then this is the place to get your proof. Excellent artifacts litter the fortress site and the Roman amphitheatre has been restored. You can also greet some catty caretakers who carefully watch you stroll by!
Double left click on photo group - to enlarge full screen ;)

GOAT HERDING - A SUPRISING CONTINUED TRADITION

2011-08-17T09:51:00.002+02:00

I am always surprised to find a goat herder out with his goats and working dogs - wandering the fields during the height of tourist season. It is truely a time bound tradition and a major miracle there are no crazy accidents as goats invade roads and leap out in front of cars!

BULLS COME TO MORAIRA

2011-08-03T10:34:00.002+02:00

Another season of farmers showing off their prize bulls to the crowds in Moraira. Bull handlers taunt the young beasts to give chase and when the bulls charge the crowds scream and applaud. Spectators shrill at the thrill of being so close to a dangerous animal!

DRAMATIC SUMMER SKIES

2011-08-02T10:20:00.000+02:00

We have had some dramatic summer skies this year. I never get tired of walking through the Granadella Park early in the morning with my dogs and watching the sun come up over the sea. These photos were taken over July and the first of August - 2011.

GEESE STEAL THE SHOW AT MORAIRA MOORS & CHRISTIAN PARADE

2011-07-24T10:07:00.001+02:00

My neighbour Louise was out with her camera and snapped some shots of the Moors & Christian parade down at our favourite beach village of Moraira. The crowds turned out in volume but it was the geese who stole the show :)

MOORS AND CHRISTIANS PARADE IN BENITACHELL

2011-07-16T12:58:00.000+02:00

Thanks my neighbour Louise - some snaps were taken of this seasons parade. The costumes are always amazing and it really brings good community spirit to our village. Benitachell rocks!! Best place on the Costa Blanca to live :) Double click on the photo to make it larger!

MORAIRA IN THE MORNING

2011-05-28T13:16:00.001+02:00

Moraira port is always a great place to hang out in the mornings. Why? Well, the coffee is fabulous at the Marina and there is always a buzz of activity. There are boats going in the water, families heading out on boat trips and even boats getting new paint for the season. Sometimes medusas come in to visit and hang around the boats. Over on El Portet beach the kayak crowd are getting their feet wet as they head out from the beach to adventures around Moraira's shores :)

Moraira Port is always a buzz of activity

Medusa playing around the boats in the port

Kayak crowd in the morning at El Portet beach in Moraira

Marathon Man is Making His Life A Mission – Not An Intermission

2011-05-21T15:21:00.003+02:00

By Karla Darocas

I am always impressed by people who set out on grand quests in order to raise public awareness about the faults in our humanity. And, as we all know, faults come in all forms and the cracks they make in our communities often grow to be nasty big holes!

I believe that America humourist and publisher Arnold Glasgow had the right idea about our human condition when he sparked the quote “Make your life a mission – not an intermission.”

Recently in Javea Port, I had the chance to interview a South African who was in the process of making it his mission to give back to his adopted community and home of Ronda, Andalucia.

Andrew Campbell knows from personal experience how health issues and medical expenses can create cracks in families and holes in pocketbooks. So, he is doing something about it.

“I have the chance to do something big for the first time in my life,” expresses Andrew.

“I decided to walk from Rome to Ronda in order to raise awareness and financial aid to help support the families in my region with very sick children who are facing financial hardship.”

The foundation he created is called the “Fundación Fabrica de Sueños”, which translates into “Factory of Dreams”

INTERVIEW WITH ANDREW CAMPBELL

1. What did your family think when you decided to go on the fundraising journey?

A: None of them believed I was serious, even during my training and weight loss period. I started weighing 130kg in Sept 2009 and now I am 90kg. I've been involved as a volunteer in charity work all of my adult life so fundraising didn't get their attention, but the notion of walking 2700km certainly captured their attention.

My parents have been surprisingly supportive, especially after reading my blog where I describe my experience of meeting homeless people and finding myself in unsavoury places and situations. My family are also very proud of me for doing this walk. My sister keeps telling me she's amazed I've been able to keep going. Little does she know I'll probably sleep for week when I get back to Ronda.

2. What do you do when it rains?

A: That is a very good question. I've been very lucky so far that I haven't had any heavy rain while I've been walking, only drizzle. But those four days of drizzle were terrible. I was soaked right through. Lluckily my backpack has a rain guard, but every time I used my phone it got wet and that panicked me. It rained almost continuously from Nice to Aix-en-Provence.

3. What kind of responses do you get from people on the road?

A: You must understand that I don't walk on the side of the road outside the white line where the road often drops away or is broken and has unnatural cambers. I generally walk inside the white line in the car zone where the surface is usually maintained and flat because this is actually the safest area of the road.

Most drivers probably think I'm crazy, but they give me a wide berth. There are even a few who wave encouragingly and toot their horn politely. Others are horrible, they drive too close and behave frighteningly or they yell obscenities at me.

I walk with a reflective vest and hiking sticks, and if I think a driver hasn't seen me I wave my sticks and it gets their attention quickly. In the cities the biggest problem is people who don't respect pedestrian crossings. I make a show of photographing number plates and that gets a quick apology.

Before my walk I was hit by a car, which damaged my right knee and has caused recurring problems while walking. Now I'm very aware of the traffic around me.

4. Did you ever think that you would be doing such an adventurous thing with your life?

A: Honestly no! I started my career in sales and got promoted to sales management along with other things. When I quit in order to focus on renovating houses, that is when my life became much more relaxed. I actually thought I'd spend my days renovating and mowing the lawn. Here I am now, practically ascetic and walking a huge distance for people I'll probably never meet.

5. Why do you feel that life is precious?

A: I'm not a terribly deep thinker. My friend Simon Wheeler says the best philosophy can be summed up in two words. Be Nice!

However, an example of my feelings about the preciousness of life can be found in the unconditional happiness of a young child who hasn't learned to discriminate yet. That child will play with any other child or talk to any person or even talk to street gangs without fear… and I long for a world where everyone lives without fear.

6. Have you met any of the children that need these funds?

A: Yes I've met some of the children, but due to a combination of laws about exploiting minor and respecting their privacy, I don't blog about them.

What I find amazing about these children is that they never cry. They are always happy to meet a new friend and tell their stories. But it breaks my heart when I see the parents sob uncontrollably because they feel powerless to help their sick children and every month their situation seems to get worse. Social security only covers so much and families that were struggling before a child becomes ill then has a really tough time afterward. The entire family suffers not just the sick child. The brother and sisters often feel neglected. The parents who must appear positive for the sake of their children, in reality can't function from grief and worry.

To Learn More About Andrew Campbell and his Mission – read his blog (http://www.romaronda.info) . ON his blog you can also contribute to his cause and help to fill crack and holes to heal sick children and their families.

-end-

ENTRANCE TO TERRA MITICA - BENIDORM

2011-04-13T16:15:00.000+02:00

TO SAVE TO DESKTOP - RIGHT CLICK AND SET

SPRING APRIL WALLPAPERS - to make you smile :)

2011-04-05T19:24:00.002+02:00

Just right click and set to background :)

SPAIN DISCOUNT HOLIDAY RENTALS: PANORAMA COASTAL VIEWS

2011-03-27T18:03:00.000+02:00

SPAIN DISCOUNT HOLIDAY RENTALS: *EASTER SPECIAL* PANORAMA COASTAL VIEWS: "This Spain Discount Holiday Rentals duplex is owned by a yachting couple who enjoy the sea and watching th..."

FALLAS FIESTA IN DENIA THIS YEAR WAS SIMPLE WONDERFUL

2011-03-21T14:29:00.003+01:00

The Fallas festival in Denia is a much easier spectacle to navigate. The flower offerings to the Virgin parade, the Masceleta (street fireworks) and the Crema (burning of the fallas statues) all happens on the same day - March 19th.

ADORABLE BABIES ARE THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE HERE AT THE FESTIVAL

GORGEOUS CHILDEN IN COSTUME

FLOWER OFFERING PARADE

VIRGIN WITH HER FLOWERS

MAIN FALLA AT PLAZA MAJOR

FIDEUA IS VALENCIANO FOR YUMMY SEAFOOD PASTA! MY RECIPE :)

2011-03-16T11:20:00.003+01:00

Fideuà (Valencian: [fiðe-wa]) or Fideuada from fideu, Valencian for "noodle") is a dish typical of the Valencian Community, in Spain. It originated in the 1960s in the city of Gandia when thin noodles like vermicelli were used instead of rice in the popular dish paella.

INGREDIENTS:

Coat the bottom of your pan with extra virgin olive oil
1 bag of fideo - which are small macaroni - 4-cm lengths or shorter
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 tablespoon minced garlic - or more to taste
1 pound or 1/2 kilo - small cockles or small clams, well washed
1 pound or 1/2 kilo mussels, well washed
1 fish stock cube
12 large shrimp, shells on
8 sea scallops, cut in half through their equators
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
Lemon wedges

PREPARATION:
Put oil in a pan and turn heat to medium-high. A minute later add fideos; sprinkle pepper, and cook, stirring almost constantly, until they darken. Try to avoid letting more than a few pieces blacken.

Add saffron, paprika and garlic, and stir for a minute more. Add clams and mussels and fish broth cute and about 1/2 cup water and continue to cook, stirring. Depending on how much liquid the clams and mussels release, you may have to add a little more liquid. Continue to cook and stir until the pasta is nearly tender, about 10 minutes.

Add shrimps, scallops and parsley and cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and liquid is dry around the edges of the pan. Serve with lemon wedges.

TO EAT - squeeze lemon wedges on fideua and eat from the pan with a big spoon - that is the true Valencian way :)

TV NEWS REPORT ON FALLAS FESTIVAL OPENING MORNING

2011-02-28T14:19:00.002+01:00

The whole city of Valencia gets awakened by the sound of fire cracking exploding in the city streets. This is to wake Spring up and to get the festival spirit excited!

TV COMMERCIAL PROMOTING THE FALLAS FESTIVAL 2011 IN VALENCIA

2011-02-28T14:10:00.004+01:00

March launches Fallas festival season in the whole of the Valencia province, but biggest of celebrations takes place in the capital city of Valencia. Here is an advert to get the juices flowing and the excitement building. Okay - I am not one for the bullfighting - but they do have an great horse show in the bullring during the festival too!

FEBRUARY ALMOND BLOSSOMS IN SPAIN * FREE WALLPAPER*

2011-02-14T13:41:00.002+01:00

To load these photos onto your desktop - just double click on photo
- and then right click on larger photo and choose SET AS BACKGROUND from the menu.

LAST DAYS OF JANUARY AND ITS BLUE SKIES ALL THE WAY!

2011-01-29T14:30:00.000+01:00

Having a coffee break on the rocky shores between Javea Port and Javea Beach.

JANUARY SUNSET AT EL PORTET BEACH * MORAIRA

2011-01-25T09:01:00.000+01:00

This is the most perfect place in the world to watch the sun go down :)

DEPARTMENT STORE FULL OF TV SETS ALL TUNED TO ETA CEASEFIRE ANNOUNCEMENT * photo El Pais *

2011-01-11T10:57:00.000+01:00

This photo really hits home on how important the news of an ETA ceasefire is to Spain. However, the article that followed went on to say that ETA has a "distored view of reality" and that the ETA Victims Association in Catalonia called the ceasefire "a joke" and they want them to "turn over their weapons".

GREAT PHOTO OF OPERA HOUSE IN VALENCIA CITY * In El Pais newspaper today*

2011-01-09T07:57:00.000+01:00

I really like how the colours and shadows play on the blue sky and of course the sci-fi features of Santiago Calatrava's architecture - wild stuff!!!

THREE KINGS COME TO VALENCIA USING MANY MODES OF TRANSPORTATION

2011-01-06T10:19:00.001+01:00

I loved this photo / article in last nights newspaper - just look at the faces of those kids - and I had to laugh at all the ways the 3 Kings travel in this modern time - Enjoy - karla

to see full size - double click on photo/article

CUMBRE DEL SOL COAST & BEACH- NEW YEARS DAY

2011-01-01T19:30:00.001+01:00

NEW YEARS DAY morning we went down to our coastal lookout park and the view was amazing because there was no wind making waves so the sea was like glass.

Then we went down to the beach and there were a few folks with dogs having fun. Enjoy the photos ;)

LA CREU DEL PORTIXOL & CAP PRIM COASTAL PARK

2010-12-28T12:30:00.002+01:00

La Creu del Portixol or the Cross of Portixol is not only a Mirador or Lookout but it also marks the entrance to a hiking trail along Cape Prim.
Cape Prim is a unique ecological micro-reserve park. You can see the multi-mix of marlston or mudstone and clay cliffs, which caress this coastal enclave. It also has rare indigenous plants of great ecological value, so it very important to stay on the marked paths and not to pick the plants or alter their environment in any way!
On the one of the park you can see the tiny island of Portixol. On the other side of Cap Prim you get a fantastic view of El Montgo, the elephant mountain and its long adjoining trunk-like cape of San Antonio.
Cape Prim can be found at the southern tip of Javea Bay and is enjoyed and it is appreciated by many visitors both locally and from all over the world.

CHRISTMAS SEASON MEANS VALENCIAN ORANGES - YUMMY!

2010-12-18T14:17:00.001+01:00

DECEMBER is all about Christmas, but is also about oranges. A 45 minute drive from our coastal home is the midieval town of Xàtiva where we lived for 6 months when we first arrived in Spain back in 2001. Xàtiva is surrounded with orange valleys, deep and thick with tasty, sweet Valencian oranges. There is nothing better in this world than picking a fresh orange off the tree and eating it right away. You can feel the vitamin C curse throughout your body. That is one of the reasons we are very rarely sick here in Spain because we get plenty of vitamin C daily ;)

MORAIRA IS THE JEWEL OF THE COSTA BLANCA

2010-12-18T13:46:00.002+01:00

Once a tiny fishing village, Moraira is now one of the most glamous yet cozy holiday spots in the world. With two beaches, a harbour, and a village packed full of fine dining, cafes, shopping and bars; it is like a super resort location. Celebrities frequent Moraira and enjoy the place the same as us normal folks. The village hosts a giant open market every Friday that sells fresh fruit and vegetables, shoes and souvenirs, leather bags and other bobbles. Moraira is marvelous!

info@SpainDiscountHolidayRentals.com

ALOE VERA GEL - Daily Use - Daily Protection - Are you protecting your family?

2010-12-12T11:27:00.003+01:00

The Spanish have always known about the healing properties from the gel from the aloe vera plant, but science understands why the cooling liquid from the aloe vera plant is so important in the daily protection of the whole family including your pets.

Aloe Vera gel, when used daily can protect your family from disease. Applied to the skin, the gel reduces inflammation thus helping the healing process and there is substantial scientific evidence to show this.

Studies conducted at Texas A&M University and Texas Children's Hospital by Drs. Bob Bowden and Wayne Smith have now demonstrated that aloe extracts mediate a second anti-inflammatory mechanism by blocking certain integrins.

Integrins are proteins that mediate cell adherence. Thus in inflamed tissues, defensive cells such as blood neutrophils must first bind to endothelial cells on blood vessel walls before entering the tissues.
This binding is integrin-mediated. Neutrophils, although critical for host defense, are unfortunately able to cause significant tissue damage as a result of the release of potent enzymes and oxygen metabolites. Thus compounds that block neutrophil emigration will prevent tissue damage and so reduce inflammation.

Another part of the healing equation is that the gel forms a rich mixture of vitamins and minerals, which together with water combined in the gel allows those properties to absorb quickly into the blood stream. The gel of the aloe vera when applied daily also hydrates the skin leaving a thin film over the skin that not only holds the moisture in the skin, but protects the skin from harmful pollutants and free radicals. It also acts as a toner for the skin, firming the skin immediately upon application. This means that it is the best solution for diaper rash and other skin irritations.

Aloe vera gel is a form of pectin, but not like the kind you would use to make your jams and jellies. Scientist have studied aloe pectin and call it "cell cement" because of the way that it acts as a binding agent to aid the growth factor that cells need to divide and grow.

"So we believe that when we drop this pectin into a wound, it forms a soft gel and then binds the growth factors and makes them persist for much longer," explains immunologist Ian Tizard of Texas A&M in College Station. "The effect we see is a significant acceleration of wound healing."

The healing power is particularly potent for older victims who normally take longer to heal than younger people. Testing aloe vera gel on wounds, Tizard found that in older people the wounds that normally would heal in 3 weeks - healed in 2 weeks. This is important information for elderly folks who might suffer from bed sores or pressure ulcers.

And when it comes to your pets, nothing beats aloe vera for healing their wounds as well. Respected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, they have already licensed the use of aloe vera to treat cancer in dogs and cats.

You can research all these studies on the Internet – or you can learn more about how aloe vera gel is made and how you can protect your family and pets daily by contacting Karla Darocas who works for the Costa Blanca’s only aloe vera laboratory in Benitachell @ 648 156 607 or info@AloeLand.info . You also visit the website to buy fresh aloe vera gel directly from the laboratory – http://www.aloeland.info/
*

FALLAS FESTIVAL POSTER COMPETITION WINNER 2011

2010-12-06T08:30:00.005+01:00

Every year at this time, the Fallas Festival starts its season with a marketing poster contest. This season the winning design came from Rafael Vilches, who lives in Valencia, and it was selected out of 79 candidates who came not only from Valencia, but from all over Spain.

The winner was revealed by Laura Caballero, the Falla Queen for 2011

Here is Fallas Queen Laura Caballero with the winning poster

MARINE PARK TRAIL - LAS ROTES - DENIA

2010-11-15T11:25:00.002+01:00

Getting your exercise is easy when you explore the "paseo" at Las Rotas Marine Park in Denia. This walking trail takes you along a jagged coastline that is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but a snorkelers dream. Here you will find coral colonies, caves and other natural enclaves. In fact, you might want to curl up in a crack of rock and picnic or read. You might even see the coast guard zipping by in his high speed motor boat. When you return from you walk, the Las Rotas restaurant is a seafood treasure. Looking up you will see a pre-medieval Arab guard tower and as always - blue skies.

NOVEMBER ROCKS!

2010-11-06T16:22:00.000+01:00

So far, November has been incredible with rich blue skies, clear air and bright sunshine. Our Chinese Maple tree is showing its colours as you can see. And our oranges are starting to turn their colour too.

GRAND OPENING OF JAVEA HOMES - REAL ESTATE OFFICE

2010-10-16T14:34:00.002+02:00

Recently, our long time friend - Carmelo Vicens Ash - had a grand splash opening at his new office at the Javea Beach. The party was just featured in Casas & Villas magazine. Check out Jose in the bottom left of the page. Carmelo is the smiley guy with the stylish eyeware :) To See Full Size - Click on Photo

To See Full Size - Click on Photo

CRUISING THE PORT HARBOUR

2010-10-09T13:33:00.002+02:00

What a great day to hang out in the Javea / Xabia "Aduanas del Mar" port harbour. Whilst the history of the harbour stretches back to the 15th century, the first jetty was built in 1871 and it became an important gateway for the export of raisins. The raisin trade collapsed at the end of the 19th century and the settlement became a mere fishing harbour. The modern harbour was built in the 1950s and 1960s. The nautical club has been in the central area of the harbour since 1963.

Bruce Willis making his movie in Granadella Park

2010-09-17T12:03:00.002+02:00

Bruce Willis is so impressed with our beautiful area he expressed a desire to own a holiday home here! It wouldn't be the first Hollywood celebrity to be in our area... just ask Madonna, Michael Douglas, the Bee Gees, Hugo Boss and more!

Bruce Willis queda prendado de La Granadella mientras rueda en Xàbia. Las Provincias

WEE TURTLE TRAVELS

2010-09-08T18:54:00.007+02:00

These turtles and their giant fish friends all live a life of luxury at the Javea Golf Course - Alicante, Spain

SEPTEMBER STORM CLOUDS OVER GRANADELLA PARK AT SUNRISE

2010-09-02T12:35:00.004+02:00

BENITACHELL ON CNN NEWS - AGAIN!!!

2010-08-28T17:23:00.003+02:00

Yesterday, a guy was arrested in a house beside the church in town for recruiting members into Al Queda. He is 26 or 27 years old and eveyrone in town knew him and said he was a friendly, helpful guy. Plus his mother is married to a citizen of Benitachell. The whole town was shut down and even the priest couldn't get into his own church. This isn't the first time our town has been on CNN in relation to Al Queda. Back in 2003 the Guardia Civil arrested a guy in Cumbre del Sol - again another friendly, well-liked member of the community, and he ended up in prison accused of being a terrorist.

EXCITING CELEBRITIES COME TO OUR BACKYARD

2010-08-26T08:49:00.001+02:00

EXCITING NEWS - Bruce Willis, Sigourney Weaver, Emma Hamilton and Henry Cavill will be shooting their film at the Granadella park, where I walk my dogs every moring - and at the beach. New movie is called "Cold Light of Day". The film tells the story of a young American who uncovers a conspiracy during his attempt to save his family who were kidnapped during their Spanish holiday. So wild - I wonder if Bruce would come for a BBQ and a swim?? Better yet - Sigourney!! Filming starts Septemeber 7th, 2010

AUGUST STORM CAUSES PROPERTY DAMAGE

2010-08-14T13:15:00.000+02:00

A full day and night of solid pounding rain brought extensive damage to some neighbours by pulling down walls and filling swimming pools with mud.

AUGUST STORM BRINGS FLASH FLOODS

2010-08-14T11:05:00.000+02:00

The water really piled up down the bottom of our street. This poor red car nearly floated over the wall.

AUGUST SUNRISES OVER CUMBRE DEL SOL

2010-08-10T10:30:00.009+02:00

The mornings are so pretty and different as the sun reaches up over the Mediterranean sea :)

CRAZY SUMMER SOUNDS

2010-07-17T09:42:00.002+02:00

This summer in Spain, we are all stuck on this crazy mix of an old Italian song by Renato Carosone - We Don't Speak Americano - and all the different DJ's making their magic mixes. Here is a dance mix of the song is Yolanda be Cool & DCUP - but this creative person made a video tribute by using footage from the film - "Toto', Peppino e Le Fanatiche". Watch it and you will see what I mean - TOTALLY INFECTIOUS!!!

SALVADOR DALI'S LETTERS FROM THE 20'S - BEFORE THE WAR - AS A 22 year old student

2010-06-16T12:23:00.004+02:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON ARTICLE TO ENLARGE

GARAGE GEKKOS

2010-06-10T14:25:00.001+02:00

Are you crazy for Geckos? Meet our little gecko friends who live in our Spanish garage! There is a rugged male, first photo - that we call - "BIG G". There is another male - called "STUBBY", and a lovely female, who enjoys being a model for the camera - and she is "GIRLY".

XATIVA in Valencia - A little historical article in El Pais today

2010-05-29T16:39:00.002+02:00

Double click on article to enlarge

MORAIG - The Lost River of the Phoenicians Now A Divers Playground

2010-05-29T12:16:00.003+02:00

At the bottom of my street is a seafront cave called MORAIG.
It is the entrance to the largest subterranean river in the Iberian peninsula.

The Phoenicians who landed here and settled Denia and Calpe back in 1000 B.C., knew this cave as the mouth of a fresh water river and came to draw their water supply. Of course, the world sea levels were about 3 meters lower then.

Today, divers come from all over the world to explore Moraig's underwater labyrinth.

Here are some videos I found on YouTube - to give you an idea!

State of the Spanish Economy - No Comparison Between Spain & Greece

2010-05-03T09:31:00.001+02:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON ARTICLE TO ENLARGE

LYNX REPOPULATION PROGRAM SUFFERS SETBACK AS DISEASE INFECTS ANIMALS

2010-04-29T11:22:00.003+02:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON ARTICLE TO ENLARGE

MAP OF CIVIL WAR VICTIMS' GRAVES TO GO ONLINE

2010-04-29T11:13:00.001+02:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON ARTICLE TO SEE LARGER SIZE

PENÉLOPE POWER

2010-04-23T10:35:00.001+02:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON PHOTO - TO READ IN FULL SIZE

SAD TALE OF VIKING PRINCESS IN SPAIN

2010-04-18T09:44:00.001+02:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON PHOTO - TO READ IN FULL SIZE

HERON HANGING AT THE LAGOON IN MORAIRA

2010-02-22T18:37:00.004+01:00

Sneaking up on a Spanish heron isn't easy, but getting these photos made it all worth it!

FOGGY CONDITIONS & GIANT MUD PUDDLES

2010-02-22T11:52:00.008+01:00

February has been foggy and wet. It has rained every other day. However when the sun does come out - neighbourhood dogs enjoy the big muddy puddles.

NOVEMBER SKIES ON THE COAST

2009-11-29T13:23:00.006+01:00

You can save these to your desktop.
a. double click on the photo you like
b. right click to set as your background
That's it - easy!
Enjoy

BUG'S VIEW

2009-11-29T13:10:00.000+01:00

SNAKING AROUND IN THE GARDEN

2009-11-29T13:00:00.002+01:00

OCTOBER SUNSET OVER CUMBRE DEL SOL

2009-10-24T19:26:00.004+02:00

BIG FAT RAINBOW

2009-10-24T19:24:00.005+02:00

COASTLINE OF LAS ROTAS NEAR DENIA

2009-10-13T20:35:00.002+02:00

SEA SALT FROM SALT FLATS * TORREVIEJA

2009-10-13T20:34:00.001+02:00

DRAGONFLY FLAUNTS FABULOUS COLOURS

2009-10-13T20:32:00.000+02:00

BRIGHT ORANGE AUTUMN BLOOMS

2009-10-13T20:30:00.000+02:00

BIG BUMBLE BEE ENJOYING THE OCTOBER BLOOMS

2009-10-13T20:29:00.000+02:00

OCTOBER SUNRISE ON CUMBRE DEL SOL

2009-10-13T20:25:00.005+02:00

BOAT EXPLOSION

2009-09-03T23:16:00.002+02:00

While having morning coffee and swim at our local beach, a boat exploded not far from shore - but far enough. We witnessed the event, but as of yet - don't know exactly what happen. Of course, we had to take a photo!

LITTLE FURRY SPANISH FRIENDS

2009-09-01T12:39:00.003+02:00

EXPAT & ANIMAL LOVER - MIKE WHITTOCK shares his little furry friends with us.

Dear SpainLifestyle.com,
We sit outside in the evening and these beautiful little creatures come and amuse us. They are tree rats, more like hamsters, herbivores, only eat vegetables and bread. pinky grey and so cute, they come out when they hear our voices. They run along the wall, climb down the wisteria and climb nimbly up the wrought iron bird table. We have now bought them their very own bird bath!. We have whole families who diligently collect the food, from tiny babies to mum and dad. This morning I went into the kitchen, the door was open and our blind Jack Russell was there. I found one of the ratties in the vegetable basket taking some garlic!! I tried to catch it to say good morning to my partner, he jumped into the umbrella and then ran up my arm to get out!! They are beautiful, clean creatures and so intelligent. They are not in the least threatening. If you see them in your garden, please look after them!!

SUMMER MORNINGS AT EL PORTET BEACH, MORAIRA - SPAIN

2009-08-28T13:23:00.005+02:00

There is nothing like spending our summer morning at the El Portet Beach in Moraira. It is the most civilized beach in the world as far as we are concerned. It is a 5 minute drive from our home and we go early to get a good parking spot. Then we order our cafe con leche. I go for a dip and Jose reads the newspaper. Then, just as the tourists start to arrive, we pack up and head home to begin our work day. This is the only way to live and work. Life on the coast rocks!

SPANISH CICADA

2009-08-24T12:54:00.002+02:00

The name is a direct derivation of the Latin cicada, meaning "buzzer".

MEDIEVAL MARKETS GIVE YOU A GLIMPS OF LIFE IN OLD SPAIN

2009-08-21T09:09:00.003+02:00

RETIRED EXPAT ENJOYS WEEKLY FLYING LESSONS IN VALENCIAN VALLEY

2009-08-21T08:58:00.002+02:00

Martin Drop has been spending his retirement time taking flying lessons. Once a fireman in Holland, Martin now gets his thrills by flying over Valencia's countless beautiful valleys.

BABY BIRD CLINGS TO TOSCA STONE WALL

2009-08-21T08:53:00.002+02:00

Separated from his mother, this baby bird clings with his claws to the rough surface of a tosca wall in the old town of Teulada.

Tosca stone is sand stone hewn from the deposits at the seaside.

COMICAL CHARACTERS AT SPANISH FLEE MARKETS

2009-08-05T09:13:00.004+02:00

Spain is full of flee markets - or "rastros" and they showcase a wide range of articles for sale from antiques to just junk. While searching through the stuff on sale, it is fun to observe the gypsies who are the kings of these markets :)

PERFECT AUGUST SUMMER DAY AT THE BEACH IN JAVEA

2009-08-02T13:56:00.004+02:00

Javea beach is enjoyed by people from all over the world.
Share -

CREAMY YELLOW HYBISCUS WITH PINK CENTER

2009-08-02T10:17:00.000+02:00

SPANISH COLOURS ON THIS FLOWER

2009-07-31T10:35:00.003+02:00

101JV-0055_PIC.JPG, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

BEACH FLOWER

2009-07-31T10:35:00.001+02:00

101JV-0071_PIC.JPG, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

I don't know what kind of flower this is - but they grow out of the sand on the beach.

NEIGHBOUR HAS NICE PALM TREE

2009-07-31T10:34:00.001+02:00

101JV-0072_PIC.JPG, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

Our palms are not this big yet!

Hey - that is me and Toby the Dog

2009-07-31T10:33:00.001+02:00

240-4050_IMG.JPG, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

We are always hanging out the window!!!

OUR COASTLINE

2009-07-31T10:32:00.001+02:00

241-4148_IMG.JPG, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

Cumbre del Sol has the most beautiful coastline in all of Spain!

Spanish_dragonfly

2009-07-25T12:41:00.003+02:00

Spanish_dragonfly, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

To Save to Desktop - Right Click - Add to Background

Spanish_dragonfly

2009-07-25T12:41:00.001+02:00

Spanish_dragonfly, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

To Save to Desktop - Right Click - Add to Background

Spanish_dragonfly

2009-07-25T12:40:00.001+02:00

Spanish_dragonfly, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

To Save to Desktop - Right Click - Add to Background

SpainSkincare.com

2009-07-22T19:28:00.001+02:00

Naturally Spanish - Aloe Vera Skincare!
SpainSkincare.com

Shared via AddThis

Penon de Ifach

2009-07-20T10:21:00.004+02:00

CUMBRE DEL SOL, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

The photo was taken from on top of Cumbre del Sol (Puig de Llorença ). You can see Moraira in foreground - Calpe and the Ifach Rock in midground and Albir in the back.

MONTGO

2009-07-20T10:05:00.002+02:00

CUMBRE DEL SOL, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

This is Montgo - the famous mountain that divides Javea from Denia. The photo was taken from on top of Cumbre del Sol (Puig de Llorença )

QUEEN CACTUS - NIGHT BLOOMER

2009-07-19T09:53:00.001+02:00

QUEEN CACTUS - NIGHT BLOOMER, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

I just love to witness this incredible feat of Mother Nature - only one night per year!!!

SUMMER SUNSET

2009-07-17T23:06:00.001+02:00

SUMMER SUNSET, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

Looking out towards Denia with Benitachell in forground

SUMMER SUNSET OVER MONTGO

2009-07-17T23:05:00.001+02:00

SUMMER SUNSET OVER MONTGO, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

Looking towards Javea - with Benitachell in lower right

Spanish_Beatle

2009-07-15T16:36:00.001+02:00

Spanish_Beatle, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

Hanging out at the pool :)

PEE BUG FILM

2009-07-15T10:20:00.001+02:00

PEE BUG FILM, originally uploaded by Karla Darocas.

A fun little black and white photo collage to make you smile :)

SpainLifestyle BLOG

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CHRISTMAS DAY MORNING AT EL PORTET BEACH

EL PORTET BEACH AT SUNSET - DECEMBER 2011

DECEMBER VIEWS DOWN CUMBRE DEL SOL COASTLINE

NOVEMBER DENIA BEACH AFTER STORM

NOVEMBER 2011

SAVING SPAIN'S TREASURES DURING THE CIVIL WAR

ZARAGOZA BASILICA - FROM MIRACLE TO MIRACLE

PALACE IN ZARAGOZA IS A BEAUTIFUL CLASH OF CULTURES

VILAFAMÉS REIGNS REGAL IN RED

DAROCA IMPRESSES WITH BOLD & GLORIOUS HISTORY

ROMAN RUINS REMAIN IN SAGUNTO

GOAT HERDING - A SUPRISING CONTINUED TRADITION

BULLS COME TO MORAIRA

DRAMATIC SUMMER SKIES

GEESE STEAL THE SHOW AT MORAIRA MOORS & CHRISTIAN PARADE

MOORS AND CHRISTIANS PARADE IN BENITACHELL

MORAIRA IN THE MORNING

Marathon Man is Making His Life A Mission – Not An Intermission

ENTRANCE TO TERRA MITICA - BENIDORM

SPRING APRIL WALLPAPERS - to make you smile :)

SPAIN DISCOUNT HOLIDAY RENTALS: PANORAMA COASTAL VIEWS

FALLAS FIESTA IN DENIA THIS YEAR WAS SIMPLE WONDERFUL

FIDEUA IS VALENCIANO FOR YUMMY SEAFOOD PASTA! MY RECIPE :)

TV NEWS REPORT ON FALLAS FESTIVAL OPENING MORNING

TV COMMERCIAL PROMOTING THE FALLAS FESTIVAL 2011 IN VALENCIA

FEBRUARY ALMOND BLOSSOMS IN SPAIN * FREE WALLPAPER*

LAST DAYS OF JANUARY AND ITS BLUE SKIES ALL THE WAY!

JANUARY SUNSET AT EL PORTET BEACH * MORAIRA

DEPARTMENT STORE FULL OF TV SETS ALL TUNED TO ETA CEASEFIRE ANNOUNCEMENT * photo El Pais *

GREAT PHOTO OF OPERA HOUSE IN VALENCIA CITY * In El Pais newspaper today*

THREE KINGS COME TO VALENCIA USING MANY MODES OF TRANSPORTATION

CUMBRE DEL SOL *COAST & BEACH*- NEW YEARS DAY

LA CREU DEL PORTIXOL & CAP PRIM COASTAL PARK

CHRISTMAS SEASON MEANS VALENCIAN ORANGES - YUMMY!

MORAIRA IS THE JEWEL OF THE COSTA BLANCA

ALOE VERA GEL - Daily Use - Daily Protection - Are you protecting your family?

FALLAS FESTIVAL POSTER COMPETITION WINNER 2011

MARINE PARK TRAIL - LAS ROTES - DENIA

NOVEMBER ROCKS!

GRAND OPENING OF JAVEA HOMES - REAL ESTATE OFFICE

CRUISING THE PORT HARBOUR

Bruce Willis making his movie in Granadella Park

WEE TURTLE TRAVELS

SEPTEMBER STORM CLOUDS OVER GRANADELLA PARK AT SUNRISE

BENITACHELL ON CNN NEWS - AGAIN!!!

EXCITING CELEBRITIES COME TO OUR BACKYARD

AUGUST STORM CAUSES PROPERTY DAMAGE

AUGUST STORM BRINGS FLASH FLOODS

AUGUST SUNRISES OVER CUMBRE DEL SOL

CRAZY SUMMER SOUNDS

SALVADOR DALI'S LETTERS FROM THE 20'S - BEFORE THE WAR - AS A 22 year old student

GARAGE GEKKOS

XATIVA in Valencia - A little historical article in El Pais today

MORAIG - The Lost River of the Phoenicians Now A Divers Playground

State of the Spanish Economy - No Comparison Between Spain & Greece

LYNX REPOPULATION PROGRAM SUFFERS SETBACK AS DISEASE INFECTS ANIMALS

MAP OF CIVIL WAR VICTIMS' GRAVES TO GO ONLINE

PENÉLOPE POWER

SAD TALE OF VIKING PRINCESS IN SPAIN

HERON HANGING AT THE LAGOON IN MORAIRA

FOGGY CONDITIONS & GIANT MUD PUDDLES

NOVEMBER SKIES ON THE COAST

BUG'S VIEW

SNAKING AROUND IN THE GARDEN

OCTOBER SUNSET OVER CUMBRE DEL SOL

BIG FAT RAINBOW

COASTLINE OF LAS ROTAS NEAR DENIA

SEA SALT FROM SALT FLATS * TORREVIEJA

DRAGONFLY FLAUNTS FABULOUS COLOURS

BRIGHT ORANGE AUTUMN BLOOMS

BIG BUMBLE BEE ENJOYING THE OCTOBER BLOOMS

OCTOBER SUNRISE ON CUMBRE DEL SOL

BOAT EXPLOSION

LITTLE FURRY SPANISH FRIENDS

SUMMER MORNINGS AT EL PORTET BEACH, MORAIRA - SPAIN

SPANISH CICADA

MEDIEVAL MARKETS GIVE YOU A GLIMPS OF LIFE IN OLD SPAIN

CUMBRE DEL SOL COAST & BEACH- NEW YEARS DAY