Saturday 26th January.
We woke to a grey day with a little wind so we stayed in and caught up with the house chores and Brenda did some washing as I made some appointments to see various apartments on Monday and Tuesday next week.We went out down to the English butchers in Dequesa marina and bought two very nice steaks for supper,
Sunday 27th January.
After a light breakfast we had a phone call from the person who is interested in us for house sitting and he suggested that we go and have a look at the area,which was what we were going to do on Friday before the puncture,so we set off past Marbella and up into the high Sierras on the road to Coin and Cartama.The weather became very warm and sunny and the views of the mountainsquite spectacular,When we arrived in Estascion Cartama the local market was on so Brenda soon hit the friut and vegetables stalls and also we did some shopping from the clothes stalls as well! The whole area is covered in Blossom trees in full bloom,with large “Finca's” and vegetable farms growing all sorts of fruit and vegetables,all very Spanish and a million miles away from the coast! We then went up the side of a valley towards Pizarra and found the very pretty railway station at Aljaima which is close to the “Finca's”that we could end up house sitting! On the way back down past Cartama we stopped at “Venta Los Cabales” for a drink which is a typical road side venta but we soon discovered that it had more to offer! We had a rather special late Sunday lunch of homemade Potato Croquettes, a leg of Roast Baby Lamb and the largest Brochette of local Chicken we have ever seen all washed down with the local Tinto Rioja,and it cost half of what it costs down on the coast!
Monday 28th January.
Over the weekend we had spotted in the local paper an advert for couples to help in a “Customer Experience” staff training program for Marriott Hotels and in return they reward you with a choice of complimentary stays,Beauty treatments or dining in selected retaurants,so I shot off a E-mail and we are waiting for the reply!We then went out to view various apartments in the area on this side of Estepona including 2.3 bedrooms,3 bedroom town houses and a 2 bedroomed Penthouse suite all fully furnished and equipped to a very high standard and all with balconies or terraces with sea/mountain views-the Penthouse turned out to be the least expensive!! We have more to see over the next two dayson the other side of Estepona and down in the marina.On the way back we called into the site to check the Winnebago and say hello to Vidal and Gissy and bring them up to date with all our news
Tuesday 29th January.
Today we viewed more apartments in Estepona marina and then in the Manilva area we saw a very nice 2 bedroomed duplex overlooking the sea and an apartment up in the hills.We had a drink in the marina as it is very warm and sunny,We have made lots of contacts with Spanish and English agents and we will take things forward in the next couple of weeks as we also plan to try and sell the Winnebago locally or on the internet before we have it taken to Oxford to sell.Watch this space yet again!Another thing we have found out about the apartments is that they all have underground parking and some have storage rooms as well as 24hr security.Marriott hotels have just replied and have asked us to go to a presention on Thursday afternoon! We are also going to meet during the next two days the man about house sitting in Cartama and on Thursday evening we are going to a birthday party for Carlos's son Fabio who is two.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Saturday, January 26, 2008
MANILVA
Monday 21st January.
Over the weekend we made arrangments with Mano and Anna to go over to Manilva today for dinner and then spend the day with them on Tuesday to see the routine to look after the two dogs and two cats! Vidal called in to say hello and to also to check on a leaking tap on the main sink which he is going to change when we are back in the Winnebago.Whilst we have been away our neighbours have come back from England and also some new ones have arrived on the site.Dave and Jane Owens who have a American RV and have had in the past Winnebago's like ours as they travelled across America came and talked to us and we were also able to give them some details about Portugal as they moved down,we also found that we had a lot in common with them and swopped E-mails for the future!In the evening we had a dinner with Mano and Anna as we settled in to their house.
Tuesday 22nd January.
After the night befor we got up to a sunny day and then saw the routine to feed and look after the dogs and cats.Feria is a large Boxer,Derek is a very small Yorkshire Terrier.Fish is a black and white moggy and Bella is a grey Persian pussy!! They all have different ways and also go and come as they want-its like looking after four small children!We then went with Mano and Anna up to the village as it was very hot and sunny and they showed us all the place's to shop as we made our way around the bars,including some that we had not been to befor and at the same time we picked up Carlos's son Fabio from the nursery school.We had a very nice Tapas lunch in a Gypsy bar just around the corner and met the owners son who is a famous Flamenco singer in the area,all the ladies were drooling until they found out that he was married!
Wednesday 23rd January.
Mano and Anna set off to the airport to go to Anna's house in North Wales as we took over the family! We went out to do some shopping and when we came back everything was all right! We had a late supper and I found out how to use all the controls for the TV. Over the last few weeks we have started to think about the what we are going to do in the next few years and have come to a decision-Watch this space in the next few days!!
Thursday 24th January.
As we got up it was another sunny day and so it was a good time to set our plans in motion,We are going to rent an apartment in Estepona and become resident in Spain ! I made a call to Paul Dudley in Oxford and we found out that he would come and pick up the Winnebago and sell it for us back in England,at the same time we called the bank in North Wales to make some arrangments with them.We have spoken to our friends and they all think that it is a good move for the future,We could also sell the Winnebago on E-bay as a alternate if we want too.We love the life down here and have fallen in love with the Costa del Sol and especially in Estepona,which is why we put the advert in the paper two weeks ago for work! We started today to look at the rental pages in the local papers and soon found some apartments in our price range and made a appointment to see one later in the day .As I was on the phone a message came up to ring back to a number-It was our first job offer! We made contact with the person and are waiting to speak to him again over the weekend as he wants us to check out the area above Malaga where he owns three large villas and is also making plans for a holiday park with chalets that he makes- he wants us to look after the villas and also has plans for other things in the future!-Watch this space.We went over to the Winnebago as the apartment was just across the road and met Vidal,he thinks that it is a great idea and he also gave us a great lead to sell the trailer to somebody on the site who he knows is looking for one as we are keeping the Smart car as we have spent so much money on it since the xmas breakdown but we will not need the trailer anymore! We checked out the Winnebago and then went across the road to meet the person to see the apartment-they did not show up-manana as they say in Spain.Friday is local paper day so we will pick one up and start chasing up more rentals. When we got back everything was OK at the “Casa”
Friday 25th January.
We had a phone call from the garage to say that the new spare key had arrived from Germany so we went over to Marbella to pick it up and then go and look at Cartama above Malaga which is were are first job could be not knowing what was about to happen! The road out of Marbella heads up to the high sierras on the way to Coin and then Cartama,As we set off on the three lane road just after the start we hit a rock on the road in the inside lane which had fallen on to the road,I could not swerve to miss it as a car was just overtaking us! The front nearside tyre went with a bang and I had to drive on for a few Kms untill we found somewere to stop as we could not stop on the roadside due to the space and drop! It now gets worse,as a Smart car does not have a Spare tyre! The front and back tyres are different so you only have what is basically a repair kit to fill the tyre with filler to get you to help!but the tyre had a very large hole and was past this option. We rang Vidal,our Guardian Angel and he drove over to help us.The next problem was when Vidal arrived we soon found out that we did not have a jack to take off the wheel! So Vidal got his jack out only to find out that it only fitted his BMW! So we then flagged down a passing car and borrowed thiers! Vidal took the tyre off and put his spare wheel under the Smart car and gave back the jack!We then headed back down to Marbella and left Brenda in charge of the Smart car on three wheels! We went into the garage on the large shopping mall and got them to put on a new tyre and at the same time we bought a new jack,we then headed back up the mountain to Brenda! The new jack was then used to put the wheel back on and retrieve Vidals spare wheel! We then decided to change the other front tyre to match the new one and had arrangrd with the garage to look after us as we headed back down! Vidal is a star and we can't thank him enough.We eventually got back to the casa to find that our “Family” were OK! A large drink was called for after another “HELLUVA” day!! For supper we had Calf's Liver,Bacon,Sausage.fried Onions and Mash.
Over the weekend we made arrangments with Mano and Anna to go over to Manilva today for dinner and then spend the day with them on Tuesday to see the routine to look after the two dogs and two cats! Vidal called in to say hello and to also to check on a leaking tap on the main sink which he is going to change when we are back in the Winnebago.Whilst we have been away our neighbours have come back from England and also some new ones have arrived on the site.Dave and Jane Owens who have a American RV and have had in the past Winnebago's like ours as they travelled across America came and talked to us and we were also able to give them some details about Portugal as they moved down,we also found that we had a lot in common with them and swopped E-mails for the future!In the evening we had a dinner with Mano and Anna as we settled in to their house.
Tuesday 22nd January.
After the night befor we got up to a sunny day and then saw the routine to feed and look after the dogs and cats.Feria is a large Boxer,Derek is a very small Yorkshire Terrier.Fish is a black and white moggy and Bella is a grey Persian pussy!! They all have different ways and also go and come as they want-its like looking after four small children!We then went with Mano and Anna up to the village as it was very hot and sunny and they showed us all the place's to shop as we made our way around the bars,including some that we had not been to befor and at the same time we picked up Carlos's son Fabio from the nursery school.We had a very nice Tapas lunch in a Gypsy bar just around the corner and met the owners son who is a famous Flamenco singer in the area,all the ladies were drooling until they found out that he was married!
Wednesday 23rd January.
Mano and Anna set off to the airport to go to Anna's house in North Wales as we took over the family! We went out to do some shopping and when we came back everything was all right! We had a late supper and I found out how to use all the controls for the TV. Over the last few weeks we have started to think about the what we are going to do in the next few years and have come to a decision-Watch this space in the next few days!!
Thursday 24th January.
As we got up it was another sunny day and so it was a good time to set our plans in motion,We are going to rent an apartment in Estepona and become resident in Spain ! I made a call to Paul Dudley in Oxford and we found out that he would come and pick up the Winnebago and sell it for us back in England,at the same time we called the bank in North Wales to make some arrangments with them.We have spoken to our friends and they all think that it is a good move for the future,We could also sell the Winnebago on E-bay as a alternate if we want too.We love the life down here and have fallen in love with the Costa del Sol and especially in Estepona,which is why we put the advert in the paper two weeks ago for work! We started today to look at the rental pages in the local papers and soon found some apartments in our price range and made a appointment to see one later in the day .As I was on the phone a message came up to ring back to a number-It was our first job offer! We made contact with the person and are waiting to speak to him again over the weekend as he wants us to check out the area above Malaga where he owns three large villas and is also making plans for a holiday park with chalets that he makes- he wants us to look after the villas and also has plans for other things in the future!-Watch this space.We went over to the Winnebago as the apartment was just across the road and met Vidal,he thinks that it is a great idea and he also gave us a great lead to sell the trailer to somebody on the site who he knows is looking for one as we are keeping the Smart car as we have spent so much money on it since the xmas breakdown but we will not need the trailer anymore! We checked out the Winnebago and then went across the road to meet the person to see the apartment-they did not show up-manana as they say in Spain.Friday is local paper day so we will pick one up and start chasing up more rentals. When we got back everything was OK at the “Casa”
Friday 25th January.
We had a phone call from the garage to say that the new spare key had arrived from Germany so we went over to Marbella to pick it up and then go and look at Cartama above Malaga which is were are first job could be not knowing what was about to happen! The road out of Marbella heads up to the high sierras on the way to Coin and then Cartama,As we set off on the three lane road just after the start we hit a rock on the road in the inside lane which had fallen on to the road,I could not swerve to miss it as a car was just overtaking us! The front nearside tyre went with a bang and I had to drive on for a few Kms untill we found somewere to stop as we could not stop on the roadside due to the space and drop! It now gets worse,as a Smart car does not have a Spare tyre! The front and back tyres are different so you only have what is basically a repair kit to fill the tyre with filler to get you to help!but the tyre had a very large hole and was past this option. We rang Vidal,our Guardian Angel and he drove over to help us.The next problem was when Vidal arrived we soon found out that we did not have a jack to take off the wheel! So Vidal got his jack out only to find out that it only fitted his BMW! So we then flagged down a passing car and borrowed thiers! Vidal took the tyre off and put his spare wheel under the Smart car and gave back the jack!We then headed back down to Marbella and left Brenda in charge of the Smart car on three wheels! We went into the garage on the large shopping mall and got them to put on a new tyre and at the same time we bought a new jack,we then headed back up the mountain to Brenda! The new jack was then used to put the wheel back on and retrieve Vidals spare wheel! We then decided to change the other front tyre to match the new one and had arrangrd with the garage to look after us as we headed back down! Vidal is a star and we can't thank him enough.We eventually got back to the casa to find that our “Family” were OK! A large drink was called for after another “HELLUVA” day!! For supper we had Calf's Liver,Bacon,Sausage.fried Onions and Mash.
Monday, January 21, 2008
CALAHONDA/CAMPING PARQUE TROPICAL
Friday 18th January.
It was another very warm and sunny day as we got up,during the previous evening Vidal had phoned to say that they could not make it today so we changed our plans for a day out again in Malaga.Brenda went out on the sunbed on the balcony and I caught up with the blog-page.In the newspaper I spotted a advert for a restaurant that I read about and it had a very good report so I booked a table for dinner.The “Beach House” restaurant is as the name suggest's right on the beach just befor Marbella in Elviria.We arrived at 9-00pm to find that it was a jazz night and was already very busy and very English! It has a very nice atmosphere and all the young staff are English.After we had ordered the house starter arrived- a demi-tasse cup of warm frothy lobster bisque.We had for our first course Pumpkin and prawn soup with coconut cream with home made warm bread rolls.For our main course Brenda had a Fillet of Salmon with Prawns baked in a Banana leaf and served with Aniseed Rice and a crisp Ginger scented salad,I had a Fillet Steak,chargrilled and served with Pont Neuf chips and Bearnaise sauce,The wine list which was also very good had French and Italian wines on it so for a change Brenda had a half bottle of Chablis.The house sorbets were excellent and we finished with coffee and warm Soberano Brandy,all this and the jazz duo !
Saturday 19th January.
We had packed the previous night befor we went out so we loaded up the Smart car and then Brenda got in and I loaded more on top of her and I got in and lifted in more bags ready to go home to the Winnebago!! When we got back we had to un-pack in the reverse order !!We caught up with the chores and settled back into life on the site for a couple of days as we are off to Manilva on Monday afternoon to Mano and Anna's house to babysit the dogs,cats and house for 2/3 weeks.In the evening after supper we watched a DVD-more about this later.
Sunday 20th January.
As the weather is still so nice and it is forcasted to stay,we went down to the marina at Estepona and read the papers whilst drinking Tinto de Verano-I stay on Seven-up as under the latest driving laws if you are caught over the limit it is straight to prison!! We called into Mano and Anna to catch up with all the news and make the arrangements for the hand-over,we going for dinner on Monday evening and are going so spend Tuesday getting into the routine of feeding the two dogs and two cats!! befor they leave on Wednesday for their holiday in Wales.On the way back we picked up a spit-roasted Chicken for supper and then watched a DVD,we have just found the “Bourne Trilogy” which has five disc,so we watched them over the past two nights and its very good,the action scenes are unbelievable and it then shows you how it was made!Just befor we left England I bought the Trilgy book in Liverpool and I am reading it at the moment as well.
It was another very warm and sunny day as we got up,during the previous evening Vidal had phoned to say that they could not make it today so we changed our plans for a day out again in Malaga.Brenda went out on the sunbed on the balcony and I caught up with the blog-page.In the newspaper I spotted a advert for a restaurant that I read about and it had a very good report so I booked a table for dinner.The “Beach House” restaurant is as the name suggest's right on the beach just befor Marbella in Elviria.We arrived at 9-00pm to find that it was a jazz night and was already very busy and very English! It has a very nice atmosphere and all the young staff are English.After we had ordered the house starter arrived- a demi-tasse cup of warm frothy lobster bisque.We had for our first course Pumpkin and prawn soup with coconut cream with home made warm bread rolls.For our main course Brenda had a Fillet of Salmon with Prawns baked in a Banana leaf and served with Aniseed Rice and a crisp Ginger scented salad,I had a Fillet Steak,chargrilled and served with Pont Neuf chips and Bearnaise sauce,The wine list which was also very good had French and Italian wines on it so for a change Brenda had a half bottle of Chablis.The house sorbets were excellent and we finished with coffee and warm Soberano Brandy,all this and the jazz duo !
Saturday 19th January.
We had packed the previous night befor we went out so we loaded up the Smart car and then Brenda got in and I loaded more on top of her and I got in and lifted in more bags ready to go home to the Winnebago!! When we got back we had to un-pack in the reverse order !!We caught up with the chores and settled back into life on the site for a couple of days as we are off to Manilva on Monday afternoon to Mano and Anna's house to babysit the dogs,cats and house for 2/3 weeks.In the evening after supper we watched a DVD-more about this later.
Sunday 20th January.
As the weather is still so nice and it is forcasted to stay,we went down to the marina at Estepona and read the papers whilst drinking Tinto de Verano-I stay on Seven-up as under the latest driving laws if you are caught over the limit it is straight to prison!! We called into Mano and Anna to catch up with all the news and make the arrangements for the hand-over,we going for dinner on Monday evening and are going so spend Tuesday getting into the routine of feeding the two dogs and two cats!! befor they leave on Wednesday for their holiday in Wales.On the way back we picked up a spit-roasted Chicken for supper and then watched a DVD,we have just found the “Bourne Trilogy” which has five disc,so we watched them over the past two nights and its very good,the action scenes are unbelievable and it then shows you how it was made!Just befor we left England I bought the Trilgy book in Liverpool and I am reading it at the moment as well.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Friday, January 18, 2008
Thursday, January 17, 2008
CALAHONDA
Monday14th January.
After our busy weekend we got up late and had a light breakfast on the balcony,We then went over to Estepona to do some shopping and then called into make sure that the Winnebago was all right and also say hello to Vidal and Gisssy.We headed back to the apartment in the late afternoon sunshine ,then we stayed in for supper and TV.
Tuesday 15th January.
We woke to a grey day so we stayed in and had a at home day to catch up with some washing and then some reading.During the day the garage rang to say that the part had arrived from Germany and that after they had fitted it they were going to do two road tests and put it on the computer for further checks.In the evening we had a Chicken curry with Rice for dinner.
Wednesday 16th January.
The forcast for the next week is very good,blue skies,warm sunshine and a temperature of 20 degs! So after breakfast we went for a walk and a paddle along the beach and as we were out the garage rang to say that the car would be ready on Thursday morning-one month after the breakdown ! In the afternoon Brenda is able to sunbathe on the balcony which catches the sun all day. In the evening we are able to watch English TV and catch up with all the popular programms as we have supper.
Thursday.17th January.
We went into Marbella and picked up the car from the garage,the only thing yet to be fixed is the radio as the code card is not working so we are back in the Smart car for the first time in a month.One good thing was that the garage did not charge for the 4/4 Smart car over the last two weeks and also gave us a break on the costs! As the weather is so good we are planning to go out tomorrow if Vidal and Gissy can make it,as we leave on Saturday morning.Next week we are house and dog/cat sitting for Mano and Anna for 1/3 weeks as they go on holiday to Wales! The pictures above show Cabopino Marina at lunchtime today and also the apartment.
After our busy weekend we got up late and had a light breakfast on the balcony,We then went over to Estepona to do some shopping and then called into make sure that the Winnebago was all right and also say hello to Vidal and Gisssy.We headed back to the apartment in the late afternoon sunshine ,then we stayed in for supper and TV.
Tuesday 15th January.
We woke to a grey day so we stayed in and had a at home day to catch up with some washing and then some reading.During the day the garage rang to say that the part had arrived from Germany and that after they had fitted it they were going to do two road tests and put it on the computer for further checks.In the evening we had a Chicken curry with Rice for dinner.
Wednesday 16th January.
The forcast for the next week is very good,blue skies,warm sunshine and a temperature of 20 degs! So after breakfast we went for a walk and a paddle along the beach and as we were out the garage rang to say that the car would be ready on Thursday morning-one month after the breakdown ! In the afternoon Brenda is able to sunbathe on the balcony which catches the sun all day. In the evening we are able to watch English TV and catch up with all the popular programms as we have supper.
Thursday.17th January.
We went into Marbella and picked up the car from the garage,the only thing yet to be fixed is the radio as the code card is not working so we are back in the Smart car for the first time in a month.One good thing was that the garage did not charge for the 4/4 Smart car over the last two weeks and also gave us a break on the costs! As the weather is so good we are planning to go out tomorrow if Vidal and Gissy can make it,as we leave on Saturday morning.Next week we are house and dog/cat sitting for Mano and Anna for 1/3 weeks as they go on holiday to Wales! The pictures above show Cabopino Marina at lunchtime today and also the apartment.
Monday, January 14, 2008
CALAHONDA
Friday 11th January.
After a light breakfast on the balcony we went out for a drive in the area and ended up at Cabopino Puerto just below Calahonda,which is a small marina with some expensive restaurants and as you can see in the pictures below we also found our dear friend,Thea's surprise birthday present,which is at the end of the month!! In the late afternoon Vidal and Gissy called in to see the apartment,we then went and got a Chinese meal and had a very lively evening which ended up with them staying for thr night.
Saturday12th January.
During the previous evening we decided to go to Marrakesh for the following week so I went and booked The Marrakesh Suite at the apartments!!! In the morning we went down to Cabopino marina with Vidal and Gissy for a drink in the very warm sunshine and had some very good Club Sandwiches and fries before they went back to Estepona,35kms away.As we went down to the marina we spotted the Cabopino Camp site in the pine trees beside the main Autovia and went in to have a look around,It is very large and busy and had some large Rvs on the site with all the facilities including Two pools,but it is very English and all the spots are close together.When we got back we moved into the suite on the first floor with the help of the reception guide,at the same price as last week! It is the top suite and has the largest balcony,TV in the two bedrooms,on suite bathroom in the master bedroom,a huge lounge,T- shaped with all the crockery and glass,top of the range,and air-conditioned throughout! The kitchen is a avery long galley style with everything as required inc.
dishwasher,the only problem being its all electric !
Sunday13th January.
While we were out yesterday we saw what looked like a very nice Italian restaurant just above the Cabopino marina and next to the camp site so after a lie in and a light breakfast we went out in the late afternoon “Spanish Style” for a late lunch/early dinner! The “Bruno at Cabopino”is set in the pine trees and staffed with 8/10 waiters in white bow ties and aprons,Brenda says some of them look like strippers-wishfull thinking on her part!! Anyway the food was very good,Marinated Salmon and a cold Prawn platter,followed by Grilled Veal Liver and Bacon with Spinach and Breaded Veal escalops with Spaghetti Milanaise,all washed down with the house recommended Tinto de Rioja.
After a light breakfast on the balcony we went out for a drive in the area and ended up at Cabopino Puerto just below Calahonda,which is a small marina with some expensive restaurants and as you can see in the pictures below we also found our dear friend,Thea's surprise birthday present,which is at the end of the month!! In the late afternoon Vidal and Gissy called in to see the apartment,we then went and got a Chinese meal and had a very lively evening which ended up with them staying for thr night.
Saturday12th January.
During the previous evening we decided to go to Marrakesh for the following week so I went and booked The Marrakesh Suite at the apartments!!! In the morning we went down to Cabopino marina with Vidal and Gissy for a drink in the very warm sunshine and had some very good Club Sandwiches and fries before they went back to Estepona,35kms away.As we went down to the marina we spotted the Cabopino Camp site in the pine trees beside the main Autovia and went in to have a look around,It is very large and busy and had some large Rvs on the site with all the facilities including Two pools,but it is very English and all the spots are close together.When we got back we moved into the suite on the first floor with the help of the reception guide,at the same price as last week! It is the top suite and has the largest balcony,TV in the two bedrooms,on suite bathroom in the master bedroom,a huge lounge,T- shaped with all the crockery and glass,top of the range,and air-conditioned throughout! The kitchen is a avery long galley style with everything as required inc.
dishwasher,the only problem being its all electric !
Sunday13th January.
While we were out yesterday we saw what looked like a very nice Italian restaurant just above the Cabopino marina and next to the camp site so after a lie in and a light breakfast we went out in the late afternoon “Spanish Style” for a late lunch/early dinner! The “Bruno at Cabopino”is set in the pine trees and staffed with 8/10 waiters in white bow ties and aprons,Brenda says some of them look like strippers-wishfull thinking on her part!! Anyway the food was very good,Marinated Salmon and a cold Prawn platter,followed by Grilled Veal Liver and Bacon with Spinach and Breaded Veal escalops with Spaghetti Milanaise,all washed down with the house recommended Tinto de Rioja.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Thursday, January 10, 2008
MALAGA
Thursday 10th January.
We woke to a beautiful red and yellow sunrise which is on the horizon right in front of our apartment as we set off to see Malaga,Vidal and Gissy could not make it as his car had to go in for a check after being caught in the floods a couple of weeks ago.We went into the centre of Malaga and after a look at the new port were the new Queen Victoria docked last week we found a underground car park and came up right outside the new market that was due to open tomorrow in the old part of Malaga and also next to the main shopping area with the sales on! As we started to look around I had a phone call from the garage to say that the new part was not available in Madrid so they have had to order it from Germany and it will not be in till the middle of next week!We then headed for the Picasso Museum which is just round thr corner from the Cathedral and is housed in a very old building with very ornate ceilings but all the walls are white and the floors are pink marbled.The museum has as well as painting,sculpture's and pottery some very good pictures showing Picasso in his house in France.We then walked into the shopping area and found the Rodin sculpture's in the main”Calle Molina Larios” as you can see in the pictures below,The hand is pointing at the Restaurant “La Dehesa” were we had the Menu Del Dia and then went and had a walk around the very grand and large Cathedral of Malaga.We stopped for a coffee and brandy before we made our way back to Calahonda after a memorable day!
We woke to a beautiful red and yellow sunrise which is on the horizon right in front of our apartment as we set off to see Malaga,Vidal and Gissy could not make it as his car had to go in for a check after being caught in the floods a couple of weeks ago.We went into the centre of Malaga and after a look at the new port were the new Queen Victoria docked last week we found a underground car park and came up right outside the new market that was due to open tomorrow in the old part of Malaga and also next to the main shopping area with the sales on! As we started to look around I had a phone call from the garage to say that the new part was not available in Madrid so they have had to order it from Germany and it will not be in till the middle of next week!We then headed for the Picasso Museum which is just round thr corner from the Cathedral and is housed in a very old building with very ornate ceilings but all the walls are white and the floors are pink marbled.The museum has as well as painting,sculpture's and pottery some very good pictures showing Picasso in his house in France.We then walked into the shopping area and found the Rodin sculpture's in the main”Calle Molina Larios” as you can see in the pictures below,The hand is pointing at the Restaurant “La Dehesa” were we had the Menu Del Dia and then went and had a walk around the very grand and large Cathedral of Malaga.We stopped for a coffee and brandy before we made our way back to Calahonda after a memorable day!
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
CLUB PLAYA VISTA
Saturday 5th January.
Saturday was a very sunny day as set off on our holiday to Calahonda to the timeshare apartment on the sea front.After checking in we were shown to our second floor apartment with a very large t-shaped lounge,two bedrooms,two bathrooms and a large kitchen all of which had just been recently refurbished to a very high standard.The site is right on the sea shore and you can hear the waves crashing in at all times,which is very soothing,the sun sets are to die for and the views across to Africa are unbelievable.During the day we can also see all the cruise liners and large container ships departing from Malaga down towards Gibraltar.The pictures below show the view from the balcony,the lounge and the pool at sunset.
Sunday 6th January.
The sign on the A-340 says “Riviera” to find the Playa de Vista apartments and we woke up to another warm and sunny day.We went out to check the local area and get our bearings foe shopping, drinking!and eating!We have settled in and had oue first bath since we came back! Whilst we were out we were approached by two people and given two scratch cards,as we rubbed off the cards we had won a bottle of champagne and on the other one,the star prize,they were timeshare sharks but as we had nothing else better to do we went along with them for a free lunch and presentation,said no and came away with a free holiday and £300 of free flights!! Watch this space!
Monday7th January.
After a lie in we put on our summer clothes as the sun was out again and went to the local bar for a lunchtime drink as it was the bank holiday ,on the way back we spotted “Max's”beach restaurant which is on the sea front next to us and as we were on foot we called in for another one! It is a very popular spot and is well known in the area but was closing later in the day for a month for refurbishment,so we will try it in the future.In the afternoon we went back to the Winnebago and picked up a bottle of champagne and called into see Vidal as it was his birthday,it was a surprise and we also took with us some Apple pie and ice cream as it is his favourite! Back at the apartment we have been eating all our meals on the balcony,the only problem being that we have to cook with Electricity-which we hate!!
Tuesday 8th January.
We called the garage on Tuesday morning after the long holiday weekend only to find out that the part had not arrived so we would have to wait a little longer for the car to be ready.Today it was grey and overcast so we stayed in and did some reading.
Wednesday 9th January.
First thing in the morning I rang the garage only to find out that after fitting the new part yet another new electrical motor is required-at this moment I lost my cool and to say that we are not happy is a understatement! We called Mano and asked him to ring and check out in Spanish what is happening to the car and us!We then went over to the garage in Marbella and told them what we thought about them-In English.We have come to an arrangement and hopefully we we will have the car before we set off back to Estepona on Saturday.Tomorrow we are going to have a day out in Malaga,so watch out for the pictures.
Saturday was a very sunny day as set off on our holiday to Calahonda to the timeshare apartment on the sea front.After checking in we were shown to our second floor apartment with a very large t-shaped lounge,two bedrooms,two bathrooms and a large kitchen all of which had just been recently refurbished to a very high standard.The site is right on the sea shore and you can hear the waves crashing in at all times,which is very soothing,the sun sets are to die for and the views across to Africa are unbelievable.During the day we can also see all the cruise liners and large container ships departing from Malaga down towards Gibraltar.The pictures below show the view from the balcony,the lounge and the pool at sunset.
Sunday 6th January.
The sign on the A-340 says “Riviera” to find the Playa de Vista apartments and we woke up to another warm and sunny day.We went out to check the local area and get our bearings foe shopping, drinking!and eating!We have settled in and had oue first bath since we came back! Whilst we were out we were approached by two people and given two scratch cards,as we rubbed off the cards we had won a bottle of champagne and on the other one,the star prize,they were timeshare sharks but as we had nothing else better to do we went along with them for a free lunch and presentation,said no and came away with a free holiday and £300 of free flights!! Watch this space!
Monday7th January.
After a lie in we put on our summer clothes as the sun was out again and went to the local bar for a lunchtime drink as it was the bank holiday ,on the way back we spotted “Max's”beach restaurant which is on the sea front next to us and as we were on foot we called in for another one! It is a very popular spot and is well known in the area but was closing later in the day for a month for refurbishment,so we will try it in the future.In the afternoon we went back to the Winnebago and picked up a bottle of champagne and called into see Vidal as it was his birthday,it was a surprise and we also took with us some Apple pie and ice cream as it is his favourite! Back at the apartment we have been eating all our meals on the balcony,the only problem being that we have to cook with Electricity-which we hate!!
Tuesday 8th January.
We called the garage on Tuesday morning after the long holiday weekend only to find out that the part had not arrived so we would have to wait a little longer for the car to be ready.Today it was grey and overcast so we stayed in and did some reading.
Wednesday 9th January.
First thing in the morning I rang the garage only to find out that after fitting the new part yet another new electrical motor is required-at this moment I lost my cool and to say that we are not happy is a understatement! We called Mano and asked him to ring and check out in Spanish what is happening to the car and us!We then went over to the garage in Marbella and told them what we thought about them-In English.We have come to an arrangement and hopefully we we will have the car before we set off back to Estepona on Saturday.Tomorrow we are going to have a day out in Malaga,so watch out for the pictures.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Friday, January 04, 2008
CAMPING PARQUE TROPICAL -ESTEPONA
Wednesday 2nd January.
The weather is on the change, it has stopped raining and the sun is out and the days are longer.In the morning I phoned the garage to check on the Smart car,the last part had just arrived and the car was then going on the test run after a computer check.We went over to Marbella in the late afternoon and dropped off the hire car and they took us to the garage.The car was ready and we gave it the once-over only to find that the radio was in the safe mode,ie the code to restart it was req.On checking the manuals and papers we found that the code card was not in its pocket! So they have to arrange a new one from the Smart people in Barcelona.As we set off the agent who had looked after us said that they had seen a slight battery surge on the test run,but it was nothing to worry about! We turned out of the garage into Marbella and the battery warning light came on!! To say that I was not a happy bunny is a understatment,we turned round and headed back to the now closing garage and as we parked in the forecourt the car conked out again and would not restart!!!The only person left at the garage then had to listen to me in bad Spanish and even worse English tell him what we thought of them.He gave us a car to come home, in-a four/four Smart car.
Thursday 3rd January.
First thing in the morning I phoned the agent and he said that they would ring me back later in the day,only for the phone call to come at 5-00pm to say that a new alternator was on order and would not arrive till next Tuesday! We are very angry and upset after spending a lot of Euros ,so next week Mano is coming to the garage with me to give me support when we pick the car up.In the meantime Brenda did the washing ready for the holiday and I made a very hot curry for supper!
Friday4th January.
Today was a shopping day to stock up with food as we set off tomorrow to the time share apartment in Calahonda at lunchtime.It is the “Three Kings “ bank holiday and everywhere is closed till Tuesday.As the sun was out and the temperature was 17deg we went for a drive in the Smart car which is very nice and we called into the Sur-English newspaper agents to place a advert for work!
British Couple.Ex-Hotelier's Available
for Housesitting.inc.Animals.
Short/Long Term.No Ties.Ref.Available.
628529975 07717746107
The agent,Jane Phillips and her husband welcomed us into their home above Estepona and we had a long chat with them as they have been down here fo 26 years and know the Costa del Sol very well! Watch this space !!
The weather is on the change, it has stopped raining and the sun is out and the days are longer.In the morning I phoned the garage to check on the Smart car,the last part had just arrived and the car was then going on the test run after a computer check.We went over to Marbella in the late afternoon and dropped off the hire car and they took us to the garage.The car was ready and we gave it the once-over only to find that the radio was in the safe mode,ie the code to restart it was req.On checking the manuals and papers we found that the code card was not in its pocket! So they have to arrange a new one from the Smart people in Barcelona.As we set off the agent who had looked after us said that they had seen a slight battery surge on the test run,but it was nothing to worry about! We turned out of the garage into Marbella and the battery warning light came on!! To say that I was not a happy bunny is a understatment,we turned round and headed back to the now closing garage and as we parked in the forecourt the car conked out again and would not restart!!!The only person left at the garage then had to listen to me in bad Spanish and even worse English tell him what we thought of them.He gave us a car to come home, in-a four/four Smart car.
Thursday 3rd January.
First thing in the morning I phoned the agent and he said that they would ring me back later in the day,only for the phone call to come at 5-00pm to say that a new alternator was on order and would not arrive till next Tuesday! We are very angry and upset after spending a lot of Euros ,so next week Mano is coming to the garage with me to give me support when we pick the car up.In the meantime Brenda did the washing ready for the holiday and I made a very hot curry for supper!
Friday4th January.
Today was a shopping day to stock up with food as we set off tomorrow to the time share apartment in Calahonda at lunchtime.It is the “Three Kings “ bank holiday and everywhere is closed till Tuesday.As the sun was out and the temperature was 17deg we went for a drive in the Smart car which is very nice and we called into the Sur-English newspaper agents to place a advert for work!
British Couple.Ex-Hotelier's Available
for Housesitting.inc.Animals.
Short/Long Term.No Ties.Ref.Available.
628529975 07717746107
The agent,Jane Phillips and her husband welcomed us into their home above Estepona and we had a long chat with them as they have been down here fo 26 years and know the Costa del Sol very well! Watch this space !!
Thursday, January 03, 2008
PUERTO DUQUESA
Tuesday 1st January.2008.
We would like to wish all our family and friends a very healthy,happy and prosperous 2008. After the night before we had a little lie in as we were going down to Puerto Duquesa to see Vidal in the afternoon.We had a good herty breakfast to start us on the way,then as it was sunny we shot over to the marina and started on Cava to toast in the new year.Vidal was in fine form as can be seen in the picture below with Brenda in the background on Tinto Blanco with Gissy and some Swiss friends for company.In the evening we came back to the Winnebago and for supper we had some very tasty Spanish Lamb Cutlets with saute potatoes as we ended a perfect New Year celebrations.We are now getting ready for our “Holiday”in Calahonda next week.
We would like to wish all our family and friends a very healthy,happy and prosperous 2008. After the night before we had a little lie in as we were going down to Puerto Duquesa to see Vidal in the afternoon.We had a good herty breakfast to start us on the way,then as it was sunny we shot over to the marina and started on Cava to toast in the new year.Vidal was in fine form as can be seen in the picture below with Brenda in the background on Tinto Blanco with Gissy and some Swiss friends for company.In the evening we came back to the Winnebago and for supper we had some very tasty Spanish Lamb Cutlets with saute potatoes as we ended a perfect New Year celebrations.We are now getting ready for our “Holiday”in Calahonda next week.
CAMPING PARQUE TROPICAL -ESTEPONA
Saturday 29th December.
As it was dry we serviced the Winnebago and did all the chores as the next few days were for playing ! In the evening we had the lobster for supper with some salad and new potatoes,which was very good after we found some crackers and picks to get at it.We then watched a DVD to finish off the day.
Sunday 30th December.
It was bright and sunny so we went off to the market on the marina at Estepona and sat in the warm sun as the world past by,it was very busy with holiday people eating in the restaurants and shopping along the front in the stalls;we then went up to Manilva to see Mano and Anna,Anna was feeling a lot better so Brenda had a chat and a drink whilst I went up to Carlos's house with Mano to watch the football on Spanish TV.It was Manchester City v Liverpool ! The result was a draw, so it was honours even.On the way back we stopped at one of our favourite restaurants “Le Menorah” for dinner.For starters we had a selection of small individual tapas followed by Monkfish with langustine on brochette served with fried peppers and frits.The perfect end to a loverly day!
Monday 31st December.
We got up late and had a light breakfast to start the day as we had planned to spend the evening with Vidal and Gissy who were not working untill the afternoon on Tuesday ,we had not made any plans except to enjoy ourselves! We started the evening with a very nice bottle of pink champagne,then went down to the marina at Estepona and ended up in the very good Chinese restaurant on the front where we had a selection of starters and main course's washed down with warm Rice wine! We then popped in to see some friends and saw in the new year in Spanish style- eating 12 grapes on the 12 strokes of midnight! As the fireworks went off along the coast we toasted in 2008 with Moet.The evening then changed into a “Hot” card game of Blackjack with a ex-professional croupier running the game!! Later we went down to a friends of Vidals beach bar on the far end of the bay in Estepona which was loud and noisey-Spanish style and had more drinks including Raspberry beer!! We ended up back at the Winnebago for some of Brenda's famous G/Ts and Cubra Libre's to finish off a “Helluva” night at 5-30am!!
As it was dry we serviced the Winnebago and did all the chores as the next few days were for playing ! In the evening we had the lobster for supper with some salad and new potatoes,which was very good after we found some crackers and picks to get at it.We then watched a DVD to finish off the day.
Sunday 30th December.
It was bright and sunny so we went off to the market on the marina at Estepona and sat in the warm sun as the world past by,it was very busy with holiday people eating in the restaurants and shopping along the front in the stalls;we then went up to Manilva to see Mano and Anna,Anna was feeling a lot better so Brenda had a chat and a drink whilst I went up to Carlos's house with Mano to watch the football on Spanish TV.It was Manchester City v Liverpool ! The result was a draw, so it was honours even.On the way back we stopped at one of our favourite restaurants “Le Menorah” for dinner.For starters we had a selection of small individual tapas followed by Monkfish with langustine on brochette served with fried peppers and frits.The perfect end to a loverly day!
Monday 31st December.
We got up late and had a light breakfast to start the day as we had planned to spend the evening with Vidal and Gissy who were not working untill the afternoon on Tuesday ,we had not made any plans except to enjoy ourselves! We started the evening with a very nice bottle of pink champagne,then went down to the marina at Estepona and ended up in the very good Chinese restaurant on the front where we had a selection of starters and main course's washed down with warm Rice wine! We then popped in to see some friends and saw in the new year in Spanish style- eating 12 grapes on the 12 strokes of midnight! As the fireworks went off along the coast we toasted in 2008 with Moet.The evening then changed into a “Hot” card game of Blackjack with a ex-professional croupier running the game!! Later we went down to a friends of Vidals beach bar on the far end of the bay in Estepona which was loud and noisey-Spanish style and had more drinks including Raspberry beer!! We ended up back at the Winnebago for some of Brenda's famous G/Ts and Cubra Libre's to finish off a “Helluva” night at 5-30am!!
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