Benidorm all year round.

Hand Luggage changes at Easyjet

2013-05-18T09:33:00.000+02:00

Will new luggage dimensions affect bookings?

Luggage allowances play a major part in the decision when booking your holiday flight - probably second to the actual cost of the flight, assuming that you have the luxury of choice. For some they are held ransom as they only have one airline available.

The company often depicted as the villain, Ryanair - who have the strictest of charges and smallest allowance with regards to hand luggage dimensions are to be joined by Easyjet!

As of 2nd July 2013, Easyjet are introducing new cabin luggage rules. In order to guarantee that you are allowed on board with your piece of hand luggage the maximum dimensions will change and it must not be any bigger than 50cm x 40cm x 20cm, if you want to ensure that it goes with you inside the cabin. Ryanair´s dimensions are actually slightly bigger at 55cm x 40cm x 20cm!

The current maximum size of 56cm x 45cm x 25cm will strangely remain unchanged, but those travelling with a bag of that size may be required to put their bag into the hold if the flight is busy. This means that you would have to wait for your luggage to come off at the other end - defeating the point of travelling with hand luggage only for many. In many instances it will also mean that the case or bag is not secured with a lock - something which I have mentioned previously.

The rule changes have been prompted by the increasing number of passengers taking the cheaper option of travelling with hand luggage only and the limited overhead locker space on a plane. On some flights they appear full even before half the passengers have boarded!

A test carried out by consumer magazine "Which" found that of the 21 cases advertised as "cabin baggage", only 3 met the reduced restrictions being introduced by Easyjet. A spokesperson for the airline has admitted that they are aware that few bags meet the new dimensions, but mentioned that Samsonite and Tesco do produce one - I think more and more will be travelling like me... with a laundry bag. They weigh nothing and can be pushed and scrunched to fit - trust me, I have done it numerous times!

Trust me -invest in one of these... now available in all colours!

Passengers with bags fitting the original and unchanged dimensions will still be allowed to take them free of charge, but they may find that they have to give them up at the boarding gate to be put into the hold if the flight is full. However, I wonder how long it will remain free for and if this is the first stage of reducing the allowance! So my advice is make sure that you have a way of securing your hand luggage if you are using the bigger size and have a carrier bag to hand so that you can take out your "valuables" such as electronic devices, passports etc.

Most passengers that opt for travelling with hand luggage is to ensure a speedy exit at the other end..... well if you want that then make sure you have a bag that fits the new dimensions! On its website, Easyjet state "So if keeping your cabin bag with you is a priority, why not bring a slightly smaller bag (which is still big enough to hold all your travel essentials) and we guarantee it will not go in the hold - even if the flight is full". Slightly smaller..... I think that my handbag is about that size and they certainly have no idea how many "essentials" a woman needs to travel with!

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CCTV coming to the streets of Benidorm

2013-05-17T10:31:00.001+02:00

Already commonplace on the streets of all major towns and cities in the UK, Close Circuit Television cameras are to be installed in parts of the Rincon de Loix area of Benidorm.
Following an attack on a local Spanish shopkeeper, who went to the assistance of an elderly British couple who were being mugged, he ended up being beaten by the two East European assailants himself. There has been a backlash in the Spanish media over the lack of security in the area - something that has been an issue within the British community for some time now and at last action is being taken!

Yesterdays press conference

At a press conference yesterday, attended by the Mayor of Benidorm Agustin Navarro Deputy Gema Amor, Head of Security Jose Marcet along with Police commanders and the heads of the Hoteliers and retail Associations - they presented a united front on the issue of security. The Mayor stressed that overall Benidorm is one of the safest Spanish tourist destinations and of the 15 million overnight stays there were only 9000 reported "violations". I would say that the vast majority are for "petty crime" - mugging in most instances is too severe a word as it implies violence. I am certainly not trying to trivialise bag snatching or pick pocketing by any means - it can be an extremely traumatising experience for those targeted, but in many instances you are not even aware that you have been a victim until later.

As a percentage, there are very few "serious crimes" such as murder, kidnapping and sexual assault reported, and especially in comparison to other cities.
However, the Mayor has taken on board the concerns voiced and announced that 360 degree surveillance cameras will be placed in the busy high volume areas of the Rincon - namely the Avd Mediterraneo, Calle Gerona and Avd Filipinas - the road that leads down from the main Avd Mediterraneo to the beginning of the open air Wednesday & Sunday market.

As with any high tourist destinations, opportunists will strike. Pick pockets and scammers are rife in every city throughout the world and you just need to be vigilant and use your common sense, the same as you would back in your own home town. Visitors tend to be more relaxed when on holiday and this may be where the problems arise... I for one certainly feel safer here than I do back in my home town in the UK - I definitely wouldn´t walk about there on my own at night!

Pea Man at work...

On the subject of scams, please avoid what is known locally as the "pea or potato men". They set up on busy street corners with a cardboard box and 3 potato halves, hiding a pea under one. They shuffle them about and you "guess" which one has the pea underneath! Surprisingly, one of the "spectators" guesses correct and doubles his wagger.... in the hope of tempting genuine passer-bys. The so called spectators and crowds surrounding the trickster are all part of a gang - the best thing to do is walk on by and ignore them. They are normally out in force on market days and can be spotted from afar by the lookouts, who stand on the street corners and on the road looking out for any approaching police cars and whistle when spotted. They then disperse quicker than a kalashnikov....

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Benidorm 6 film crew pounding the streets of Benidorm

2013-05-16T09:20:00.001+02:00

Windows of Lucky´s all blacked out

After a well deserved rest last week the cast and crew are back in town for the second round of filming for the 6th series – and they certainly appear to be filming around the resort.

Creator Derren Litten on location at Lucky´s

On Monday they were at Luckys, located underneath The Secret Fountain at the Marina Hotel for a casino scene - with the return of actor Nicholas Burns who plays the character of Martin Weedon. He was last seen on our screens in series 3 as the long suffering and hen pecked husband of Kate and was joined by newcomer Bianca, daughter of the latest family who have joined the series and played by actress Bel Powley. Even creator and writer Derren was on location to keep an eye and ear out...

Madge in her chariot...

Tuesday and Wednesday they were back at the pool of the Solana Resort, which for those of you that don´t know is the Sol Pelicanos hotel. They had five tonnes of sand delivered during the week break…. any guesses as to what they will be using it for? The answer isn´t a sand castle competition by the way!

Madge, looking suitably mahogany colour-wise was back in her mobility scooter and Sherrie, aka Joyce Temple Savage donned what looked like a very chic new hairstyle!

Today you can find them back out on the streets of the Old Town – they are filming at the Rich Bitch Show Bar but you won´t see much as its downstairs in the basement. I had the pleasure of appearing with Gary, better known as Miss Jordan Rivers and owner of the Rich Bitch last year when we were both in "Come Dine with Me Benidorm". Apparently someone from the cast will be "performing" on the stage at the Rich Bitch.... any guesses as to who?
They will also be filming opposite at the Klee Kaffee - where normally the "politically incorrect" Sheila Blige performs.

Its nice to see that they are featuring real parts of the resort that will then attract visitors to go and see when here.

The crew will be here filming until the end of June, so Iam sure that if you are here you are likely to stumble across a Primoti hire van full of cameras and light equipment – and maybe even a cast member in tow too.

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Benidorm´s waterpark Aqualandia opening this weekend!

2013-05-15T10:39:00.002+02:00

For those brave enough - and that most certainly counts me out, then Aqualandia will be opening its doors this coming Saturday, the 18th May for the start of the holiday season.
The largest water park in Europe turns 28 years old this year and has been one of Benidorms favourite attractions for the young... and from what I have witnessed in previous years, not so young!

As in years gone by, and now somewhat of a tradition, the first 100 children will be admitted FREE of charge. For those of you thinking of being within that group, the doors open at 10am but my guess is be there by 9.00am... if not before!

One of the great things about Aqualandia is that you can take your own food and drink in - unlike other attractions. Families come laden down in the morning with multiple cool boxes full of food and drink for the day - however, there are facilities available within the park as well.

The coloured water slides are quite an iconic sight on the Benidorm skyline - known as "Big Bang" they offer different levels of intensity and adrenalin surges! There is also a special area for the younger visitors to enjoy.

Mundomar - next door

The park is open daily from 10am until 6pm - the last day is 29th September this year and they have a massive FREE car park directly opposite the entrance. A one day entrance ticket costs 33 euros for an adult and 25 euros for a child - which is classified as between 4 and 12 years old. (under 4´s go free). They also offer discounted afternoon tickets, for entry into the park after 3pm - they are 22 euros for adults and 18 euros for children. However, look out for the discount vouchers around the resort - McDonalds always have the best ones I find but Carrefour supermarket has them as do petrol stations.

Next door to Aqualandia is Mundomar, a marine animal park which also has exotic animals and a great hit particularly with young families. When you go they usually hand out discount vouchers for entrance to Aqualandia - and they are actually really generous discounts. So my advice if you are planning on going to both is visit Mundomar first and then you get the better discount to get into Aqualandia!

Its really easy to get to Aqualandia - if driving the best place to head for is Benidorm Palace, then take the road almost opposite and it will take you all the way there - only about a 2 minute drive.
You can also catch a public bus - either the number 1 or 11 - which will take you straight to the entrance - but if there are 4 of you it will probably work out the same to take a taxi in all honesty, especially if you are coming from Benidorm.

Old Alicante airport terminal to get a new lease of life

2013-05-14T09:16:00.000+02:00

Old terminal - now abandoned

An ambitious plan has been submitted to AENA to turn the old disused terminal 1 building at El Altet Alicante airport into an outlet shopping centre. The company Alicante "Aerovillage" has support from foreign backers with an estimated investment of 40 million euros and the creation of 650 jobs!

The 2 floors of the terminal building which encompasses 40,000 square metres would be transformed into 109 commercial units which in turn would become shops and restaurants, attracting in the region of 140 brands to the complex. There is even a plan for a leisure zone as the basement would be turned into an indoor karting track with an area also earmarked for a 3D Flight, Formula 1 and Moto GP simulators.

Duty Free shopping in new terminal

The Old Terminal 2 building, which was built as an addition to the old terminal would be used for the private sector to accommodate jets, private transfers, ambulances etc. The old office building which was the link between terminals 1 & 2 would become a 36 room hotel, appealing to passengers and crew on late night arrivals and early morning departures. On site hotels are common at many International airports around the world...

New spacious departures terminal

"Aerovillage" first submitted the proposal to AENA back in September 2011, four months after the new terminal opened but things slowed down after the change of Government and policy. Now things are back on track and a proposal was presented to the City of Elche, which adhered to the Territorial Strategy of the Valencian Community and so looks like it may gain approval. Similar successful projects have been achieved in both Madrid and Barcelona and it will also be a boost to the local housing market as it attracts buyers to the area.

Will the sign also say "Outlet Shopping Centre"?

There is plenty of parking opposite the old terminal , which "hopefully" would be free for visitors to use and the road network already exists - it seems like a great project. AENA would also benefit by pocketing an annual fee equal to 15% of revenue from the management company, so Im sure they will be all in favour of pushing ahead with the project.

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New 5 euro note circulating in Benidorm

2013-05-13T12:53:00.000+02:00

Front of the new 5 euro note - top image

Over 11 years after the introduction of the euro, the 17 countries which share the common currency have started introducing a second generation of bank note - starting with the 5 euro note.

One of the primary objectives is to make it more difficult to forge - and so includes many more security features. The ends have a ridged edge, include a hologram strip and watermark and the number 5 appears in a shiny emerald coloured hologram which changes to a blue colour when tilited . The new note is the same size but the colour has also changed slightly, from a greeny colour to a more bluey one and the word "euro" now also appears in Cyrillic for the East European countries. An image of the Greek goddess Europa also appears on the note.

The new 10 euro note will be introduced next year and the 20 euro note is set to follow in 2015. The new 5 euro note will circulate alongside the existing one and no date has been given for the expiry - so don´t worry if you keep them from your previous holiday.

As you pay for items you may receive a mixture of 5 euro notes, so don´t worry that they are forgeries! However not all automatic machines have been programmed yet to accept the new notes. I was behind a lady at the pay machine in the car park below the Town Hall and the machine wouldn´t accept the new note - luckily for her I had a spare one and swopped hers for the old type so she could get out!

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Cancer fundraiser update

2013-05-12T20:29:00.000+02:00

Well it´s certainly true what they say about the Brits and their generosity when it comes to good causes! This afternoons fundraiser for "Aspanion", the charity which supports Children with Cancer raised an astonishing 7,104.50 euros!

Gary, who runs the Giving4Giving Charity shop and the instigator of this afternoons event was close to tears when he told me how much had been raised. In these difficult financial times its certainly humbling how big-hearted people can be... Wayne who owns Showboat, where the fundraiser took place and Tad & Lesley of The Yorkshire Pride pubs were the main organisers - they are the shakers and movers in town who know everyone to rally for such events.

The main men - Wayne, Tad and Gary

Numerous local bars and businesses had donated some fabulous prizes for the raffle and many also made additional monetary contributions to the pot. All the entertainers who performed gave up their Sunday afternoon for free - so a huge thank you to them all - many were working later on too.

But most of all a huge thank you from Gary to all those that came and dug deep - I think it will be an afternoon that will remain with him for many months to come....

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Sunday afternoon fundraiser for Children with Cancer

2013-05-11T12:42:00.003+02:00

If you are wondering what to do this Sunday - that´s Sunday 12th May, then think no more.... head to Levi´s Showboat in the Rincon de Loix for a fabulous afternoon of top Benidorm acts & entertainers - and all for a very worthy charity which will pull at everyones heartstrings - Children with Cancer.

The event is the brainchild of Gary, who runs a Charity Shop "Giving4Giving" in La Nucia - it is located on the main La Nucia to Benidorm road on the parade of shops opposite Cheap Tyres by roundabout No 6 .

Originally from London but having lived in Spain for 10 years now, he opened the shop just under a year ago to help raise money for cancer charities. His life has heartbreakingly been plagued by the disease with numerous members of his family succumbing to it - his wife, mother, gran and aunt. He was left some money and decided that he wanted to try and help so set up his shop. It does not support a given cancer charity but Gary makes donations to different ones each time - he particularly likes to help the smaller lesser known ones. In March he organised a walk which raised 900 euros which he gave to the AECC. He has also donated to MABS and this Sunday´s one is for ASPANION - The Association of Parents of Children with Cancer in the Valencian Community.

So what can you expect this Sunday you are all wondering! Well let me tell you the entertainment list is unbelievable - where will you find Take That, Gary George, Adele, Coco Chanel, Temptations, Jenny Wren, Kay C and the Dream Girls, Scott Michael to name just a fraction all under one roof... well that roof is "Showboat"!

Take That boys... one of the many to perform for free

The afternoon kicks off at 2pm - (in fact, whilst there why not treat yourself to the delicious 3 course Sunday roast for only 8.95!) and entrance is a 2 euro donation, which will ALL go to the charity. The afternoon has been organised by Gary, Wayne & Des, Tad & Lesley from the Yorkshire Pride and Mandy of the Round Town Times. Wayne knowing everyone on the entertainment circuit has organised much of the entertainment side and Tad & Lesley, who do lots of fundraising for the Reuleu Children´s home has amassed any incredible array of raffle prizes from many of the local businesses.

Gary with the signed Valencia football top!

But one of the top and most sought after prizes, which will possibly be auctioned is an official Valencian team football shirt which has been signed by all the players! That must certainly be worth a healthy donation I should think....
If you know of any Valencian football team supporters please pass the word around - Im sure that telephone bids will be accepted too!
I am sure it will be a great afternoon and well done and congratulation to all those involved - the Brits are certainly renowned for their generosity at any charity events so a big thank you comes from Gary to all those that go.

The Giving4Giving charity shop is open 7 days a week from 10am until 2pm and any donations will be gratefully accepted by Gary. On 30th May, Gary together with the Union Jack Golf Society is organising a charity Golf tournament - anyone interesting in taking part contact Dave Morris at the Union Jack Bar in Benidorm.

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Europe Day celebrated in Benidorm

2013-05-10T07:09:00.000+02:00

Impressive surroundings at Benidorm Town Hall

How many of you were aware that yesterday was "Europe Day" ?
63 years ago, on 9th May 1950, the then French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman, made the first moves towards the creation of what we now know as the European Union. He laid out a plan for France and Germany to pool their coal and steel resources with the aim of preventing a future war in Western Europe. Since then, Europe celebrates every 9th May as the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration and many of the member states celebrate peace and unity within Europe. Spain officially gained full membership of the European Union on January 1st 1986

Me,Chris Wyatt, Gema, Paul Rodwell & Pamela Dawson Tasker

I have never seen any celebrations held in the UK, but in Spain the occasion was marked at many of the Town Halls. Benidorm had a very grand and well attend ceremony which took place in the official meeting chamber at the Town Hall. All members of the Council were present as were the towns top knobs such as the Chief of Police, Head of the Guardia Civil, President of Hosbec Antonio Mayor and invited guests. The Mayor Agustin Navarro used the occasion to make a presentation of the "Distinction Europe" awards. These are given to International Associations which have made a major contribution to Benidorm.

The ceremony was opened by students from the music academy who played a wonderful rendition of Pachelbel´s Canon in D then Gema Amor, Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Tourism stepped up to the lectern to welcome everyone and explain the significance of Europe Day.

Nominees waiting for their awards

There were two British nominations: Firstly, the British Embassy, which was represented by British Consul Paul Rodwell to emphasise the importance and huge contribution of the British tourist sector to the town. The second was to the Royal British Legion for its dedication to support ex-service personnel and their families who have been injured through active service and the associations tireless fundraising - most notably the annual Poppy Appeal. The award was collected by District Chairman Chris Wyatt and also attended by the Benidorm branch President Pamela Dawson Tasker and deputy John Derrick.

Three other awards were also made to the International Rotary Club, Lions Club and Cruz Roja - International Red Cross for their combined work, help and dedication to both the citizens and visitors of Benidorm. With the current financial climate hundreds of local residents have survived mainly thanks to the charity and fundraising shown by these organisations.

British Consul Paul Rodwell at the lectern

Each recipient gave a thank you speech after receiving their commemorative glass plaque from the Mayor - first up was Chris Wyatt, who firstly apologised for his Spanish but gave a warmly received address to the predominantly Spanish audience. Paul Rodwell opened with an impressive few sentences in Valenciano but then continued in Castellano (Spanish) - explaining it was easier and was given a rapturous applause at the end.

Chris & Paul proudly showing off their awards

It was certainly a proud day for the British contingency, who received 2 of the 5 awards. The Mayor then gave a short closing speech and the ceremony was officially closed with everyone standing to the European Anthem "Ode to Joy" - Beethovens Choral 9th Symphony which was adopted as the official anthem in 1985.

If you would like more information about the RBL email Pamela Dawson Tasker - Benidorm Branch President at: pdawson802t@cv.gva.es

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Emergency Health Care entitlements

2013-05-09T09:41:00.000+02:00

Yesterday there was a rather disturbing report published in the "Money Mail" section of the Daily Mail entitled "Britons held hostage by foreign hospitals"!

In short, the article stated that holidaymakers are being told that they must pay for any treatment which they receive, despite having a valid EHIC - European Health Insurance Card and the paper implied this is down to the huge cuts being made to the Spanish healthcare system as part of the austerity measures.

Villa Joyosa Hospital

There is only one Social Security (NHS) hospital in this area which covers Benidorm - the Hospital Marina Baixa in Villa Joyosa. This is the ONLY hospital where you can use your EHIC. The two hospitals in the centre of Benidorm - IMED Levante and Hospital Clinca Benidorm are both PRIVATE and will not accept this card.

In an emergency where an ambulance is necessary, hotels will automatically call one of the private hospitals, assuming that all holidaymakers have private travel insurance. They work on a commission and so it is in their interest to send patients via the private route.

Check your card has NOT expired!

Those that are entitled to an EHIC will be seen for emergency treatment FREE of charge at either the Centro de Salud - local health centre or at the Villa Joyosa hospital. However, if a follow up appointment is required to see a specialist that must be paid for by either the patient or the insurance company as it is not deemed "an emergency". As an example, if you break your leg you will be given a plaster cast, however, when the time comes to remove it say 6 weeks later that will not be covered by the EHIC.

If someone arrives at the Social Security hospital without an EHIC or insurance they will be presented with a bill for any treatment received. I personally have not heard of any situations at Villa Joyosa where someone has not been treated in an emergency on presentation of their valid EHIC. The service at the hospital is excellent and has often been praised.

The British Consulate has issued several reminders to holidaymakers NOT to rely solely on an EHIC for medical treatment but to ensure that they have adequate travel insurance too. The EHIC will NOT cover the cost of repatriation back to the UK and I have dealt with a situation where someone needed to be flown back by air ambulance and did not have any insurance. It was then left to friends and family back in the UK to try and raise the funds necessary - which ran into several thousand euros! Everyone always goes away with the mindset "It won´t happen to me" but accidents DO happen. For the sake of piece of mind do not cut corners..... it will cost you dearly in the long run!

Remember, an EHIC is absolutely FREE to apply for, although you will find many websites charge a fee - DO NOT use these! Also for those that have one, remember that they have an expiry date on them so check yours is still valid... and preferably not on the day you are flying out! And most importantly keep your EHIC on you when you go out.... if you have an accident it´s no good back in your hotel safe!

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British Consulate in Alicante moving

2013-05-07T07:41:00.001+02:00

The British Consulate in Alicante is moving.... but not far - the new office will only be 10 minutes´walk from the current building.
From Tuesday 14th May you will find the Consulate on the Rambla Mendez Nuñez, just near the port of Alicante, a short walk from the Tram stop and Alicante Central bus station.

The Consulate in Alicante has been in its current location since 1979, The move to new premises shows how important it is that there is a continuing consular presence to support the nearly 300,000 residents and 3.5 million tourists who visit the region each year.

The new office building

Alicante is one of the busiest Consulates in the world, helping British nationals who have been hospitalised, arrested or suffered a bereavement, as well as issuing emergency travel documents to people whose passports have been stolen so they can return home.
A word of advice to holiday makers - when going out DO NOT take your passport with you - leave it in the hotel safe. The only time you will need it is to exchange money, then you are often given a card to show for subsequent visits. It is a very costly and time consuming process to obtain an emergency travel document!

Throughout the Summer the Consulate can issue up to 20 passports per DAY. When you lose or have your passport stolen you will have to personally go to the Consulate in Alicante. A taxi will cost in the region of 60-70€ each way. If it has been stolen it has to be reported to either the Guardia Civil or National Police and a police crime number obtained.

You then require a passport sized photograph - there is a photo booth at the consulate and the worse part, 122€ (they take credit card payment). This emergency passport will only be valid for the duration of the holiday you are on and you will have to apply for a full 10 year passport on your return... yes very costly, but these fees are set by the UK Parliament not the Consulate.

British Consul Paul Rodwell said "The new Consulate will help us to assist better those who are most vulnerable, whilst offering an improved customer experience, particularly in terms of access for those with reduced mobility. Furthermore, a new open plan office will deliver a better working environment for the team and the location in the centre of Alicante, with excellent access to public transport links will mean that those who need to find us, can do so easily.

There is also a change to the passport service for British Nationals living in Spain. As from Monday 13th May 2013, all applications will need to be sent directly to the Identity & Passport Service (IPS) in BELFAST and not Madrid, as is the current procedure. Also, the current premium rate helpline number is being changed to a standard UK call rate. The number for anyone wanting to contact the IPS Customer Service Centre is: 0044 300 222 0000

The new Consulate office is located on the 6th floor of the "Edificio Espacio" and open to the public from 8.30am until 13.30pm Monday to Friday. The map below shows the location of the new office in relation to the current position.

The new address is:
British Consulate in Alicante
Edificio Espacio
Rambla Mendez Nuñez 28-30
6ta Plante (6th floor)
Alicante 03002

I just hope that you don´t ever actually need to go there - but only because normally it would be under unfortunate circumstances - the staff are actually lovely!

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Classic Car Rally in Benidorm

2013-05-05T18:48:00.000+02:00

Sunday in Benidorm was very busy today with it being Spanish Mother´s Day, the start of the First Holy Communions and the town being host to the European Car Club Classic Car Rally.

The cars were on display at the Town Hall Square this morning and certainly attracted vast crowds. The owners stood close by, watching their pride and joy like a hawk... and I can´t say that I blame them either. All the cars were gleaming and pristinely restored, which is a real labour of love as I found out when I spoke to one of the owners.

Rafael Bareno was there with his Classic Rolls Royce, which took him over a year to restore. It was completely stripped back to its shell and then gradually re-built. It had five coats of paint applied - the last two were baked on.
Then he pointed out a slight dent and scratch to the rear door - yesterday his grandson had been playing out on his bike and leaned it against the garage wall and it fell... onto the car! It is somewhat of a hobby for Rafael, who has four other classic cars which he has restored.

Ford Popular - who remembers the rather basic interior?

There were lots of people shrieking in recognition and reminiscing when they saw certain models, obviously bringing back many fond memories. Most of these cars had a special numberplate beginning with an H prefix - standing for "historic" and meaning that they are exempt from paying any road tax. There is a similar system in the UK - once it use to apply to cars over 25 years old which ran on a rolling scale, but as of the 2013 April budget, that has changed and now and all cars manufactured before 1st January 1974 are entitled to a free tax disc.

The beautifully sunny day was an added bonus as many of the cars were convertibles and so could be displayed to maximum effect, with the tops down!
However one car gave a totally new meaning to the word "sun roof" and caused much laughter among the visitors.

As well as exhibiting them for everyone to enjoy, 30 of the cars on display will be taking part in the European Car Clubs first 7 day rally - which will be starting from Benidorm and ending up in Mallorca! The cars will set off tomorrow and head to Denia to catch the crossing, then drive around the island, taking one of five different routes. I am sure that it will be a real traffic stopper along the route.

Just after noon all the cars left in convoy to drive along the beachfront - escorted by police outriders on motorbikes. They tooted their horns and attracted the attention of everyone who was lazily sunbathing on the beach - and what a sight it was, a procession of classic cars in the middle of Benidorm.

Good luck to all the participants and hope that the weather stays as it was today.... warm and sunny!

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Benidorm 6 cast and crew taking a mid shoot break

2013-05-03T20:41:00.000+02:00

"Alicante airport" in Benidorm!

Well today is the last day of filming as next week the cast and crew are all off on a well deserved one week break - which coincides with the UK Bank Holiday Monday. The weather has certainly been against us here in Benidorm - last week and even up until Wednesday of this week, it had been exceptionally unseasonal - torrential rain, gale force winds and even sleet on the outskirts of Benidorm!

But as of Wednesday the sun came back and it has been shining since... I hope that I haven´t just jinxed that! Obviously the weather has had a massive impact on the filming schedule and more has had to be done inside. The "Pink House" is used as the reception area of the Solana resort and they also build sets in the downstairs garage area - but the set seems to have expanded to the empty building next door too!

This morning it had been transformed into Alicante airport.... no not the runway with a jumbo waiting to depart, just incase you are wondering. It was clearly passport control, and very realistic looking too... wonder which character is arriving - or perhaps departing! There were lots of extras on set today.... and most had suitcases in tow too.

The garage underneath the Pink House was also part of the airport set - with a sign on the wall showing the way for the exit and the Guardia Civil office the opposite way - wonder which way the camera will go?

Me standing in the "office set"

In the last series an operating theatre had been built in the garage but for this series an office has appeared.

It looked very strange in the middle of the vast garage but once inside you would really believe that you were there - it is all wood panelled and the desk and all the furniture had to be sourced specially. Even the desk had authentic props such as a pot plant, old fashioned telephone and pen on it!
The prop team even built the fireplace from a drawing sketched by the set designer out of bits of spare wood and stained it to make it look real - and a good job they did too.
So the question is.... whose office is it?

If you are over next week you are unlikely to see any action I´m afraid, as most of them will be back in the UK - but only for a week then they are back all the way through until the end of June.

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1st May - a busy day in Benidorm

2013-05-02T09:32:00.000+02:00

Busy Levante prom yesterday

I think that someone told the weather to buck up at long last - we have had the most awful week up until yesterday. Gales, torrential rain, hail stones - extremely unseasonal and even us "locals" were getting a tad fed up! I can´t begin to imagine what it was like for the poor holiday makers that had booked to get away from just that sort of weather for a little sun because the only sun around last week was the printed tabloid type! However, I shall try and remind myself of this in August when the thermometers are hitting 40 degrees... us Brits are forever moaning about the weather aren´t we!

Have the Russians arrived & looking for moorings!

Yesterday was extremely busy in Benidorm as it was a National Bank Holiday in Spain and across most of Europe - it was "Labour Day" ... the day of the worker! As if the country isn´t in enough mess already - those lucky enough to still have jobs decide to take an extra day off! And to explain the crowds, today is also a holiday in Madrid so many of the city dwellers pop across to Benidorm as it´s their "local beach". They will probably also take Friday off as well and not head back until Sunday - it´s great for the hotels but they are not renowned for their spending...

Well two very important events took place yesterday - a fundraising day for a special little girl called Keira and the opening of "Top Deck" sports bar above Showboat.

Keira, who is 5 years old was born to ex-pat mum Debbie with numerous complications including severe brain damage, cerebral palsy and epilepsy. She requires specialist therapy which is not financed by the authorities and so Debbie works tirelessly organising fundraising events. The ex-pat community turned out in force at the cricket ground in Albir and enjoyed a fun day with plenty of activities for the children in particular. Many local businesses generously donated prizes for the raffle and the afternoon raised a fantastic 2200 euros.

Then things moved on to Benidorm where Wayne and Des had the grand opening of "Top Deck". The word had certainly spread as it was like the first day of the sales, with crowds congregating at the entrance gates waiting for them to open at 2pm! The transformation was incredible and hours of hard work had unquestionably paid off.

There wasn´t a spare seat to be had on the sun terrace, where people sat and relaxed, enjoying the views - no one was brave enough to try the jacuzzi though! Wayne promised a free buffet and he definitely pulled out all the stops - the bbq cooked over 500 burgers, sausages and chicken skewers and the chefs from the downstairs restaurant prepared some wonderful salads to accompany them.

With captain Wayne!

It will certainly be a popular chill out zone up there and men in particular will appreciate the numerous flat screen televisions dotted around both inside and out, showing all the major sporting events. There is a snooker table on the outside terrace and dart boards ready for some action inside in the games room. The bar serves only premium branded drinks and Michael, the bar manager is all ready to start mixing cocktails for the ladies... that´s not to say that the men can´t have one too, but I would imagine that they will stick to the beer for fear of being seen sipping on a pina colada with an umbrella adorning it - very un-macho!

The sun is still shining today and the sky is blue..... so what are you all waiting for!

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"Top Deck" Sports Bar in Benidorm

2013-04-30T07:01:00.000+02:00

An oasis - spacious sun terrace with breathtaking views

Following a hugely successful first year for Levi´s Showboat, Wayne is casting his net once again and launching "Top Deck" - which is located above the Showboat in the Rincon de Loix.
The grand opening will be on Wednesday 1st May at 2pm and everyone is welcome to raise a toast... plus there will be a fabulous free buffet prepared by the chefs from down below!

I popped by yesterday to see how things were going and they are in the final stages now - all the major construction work is done and its just the dressing and finishing touches to do.

Wayne getting down and dirty among the pots

The first thing that you notice once up there are the absolutely fabulous views of the mountains from both sides... and the terrace is most definitely a sun trap... this place is certainly going to give the Secret Garden a run for its money! The other main thing which is unmistakable is how peaceful it is up there - you can´t hear the traffic from the road below at all!

Raising what will be the first of many toasts

I arrived to find Wayne and Des on their knees planting half of the garden centre which they had just bought, into various pots, which would be dotted around the terraces. They had an army of friends and helpers giving a hand - brooms and mops at the ready.... and what a great help they were too and very much appreciated by the boys. They all stopped for a quick rest whilst Des poured some pink champagne for everyone to enjoy - even I joined in with that activity!

The main sun terrace will have a giant flat screen television on the wall with a second one on the other terrace - meaning that wherever you sit you won´t miss a game or match.... remember, this is a sports bar! You will also find the jacuzzi located there - which is available for all customers to use free of charge.

Jacuzzi - available for all to use

The terraces are very tastefully decorated with a lot of attention paid to detail - the chairs all have thick cushions and each table will have a parasol for when it just gets too hot. The potted plants were moved around until they sat just right...

Top Deck manager Michael with Des and Wayne

Inside, the bar top was just having its final coat of varnish applied whilst the brewery were busy delivering the first of many orders for it. And the manager of the new Top Deck Sports Bar is Michael Dermek - a man with many years of experience. He has been attributed with bringing the main strip in the Rincon back to life and with his suave looks many of the female clientele will be hoping that he can bring them back to life too I should think!

They will only be offering branded drinks - no local Spanish brands. Wayne´s mantra is to offer quality to his customers, something which has obviously stood him in good stead which you can see from the success of the Showboat.

Main bar

The main bar area will have a wide screen television which can be seen from all angles - the screens will be showing all the top sporting events and competitions being televised... football, rugby, cricket, tennis etc.

The place will be available for private hire and among some of the things on offer will be cocktail making classes with Michael - Im sure that will be a hit with the ladies!

Next door to the main bar is a separate games room, which is ready for two dart boards to be hung. Once open and running they hope to form a darts team, playing against other local sides.

Games room - ready for the dart boards

They also plan on getting in some type of pinball or games machine and the room will be wired up with WIFI ...and obviously it will have a television screen up too!
They will be offering bar snacks such as tex mex, wings, ribs and chips and once up and running they have a bbq which will be fired up too.

Just look at that fab view - not Des the mountain!

All in all it looks like a fab place to while away a few hours in total seclusion - sitting up there you would never believe you were in the centre of Benidorm.
Make sure that you bring your camera because the mountains look stunning from up there - its not a view you often get to see.

Good luck with the opening on Wednesday - I will be there to raise my glass... again !

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"One Vision" - Benidorm´s premier performers

2013-04-28T11:42:00.000+02:00

Performing at Morgans Tavern nightly

Benidorm has an amazing array of talent and entertainment on offer - you can find something to suit all ages and tastes which is what makes it so incredible and probably explains why visitors keep coming back. Where in the UK can you get entertainment of this standard for free every night?

One group that stands out as it appeals to virtually everyone, no matter what generation is "One Vision". They are a four piece group made up of Emma Louise Dickenson, David Wenzel, Darren Coulton and Mark Harty.

David, Emma Louise, Mark & Darren

I bet you are wondering who is who ... well Emma Louise surprisingly is the girl in the group! Mark is the one with the red mohican - although he did tell me that it changes colour regularly (and is torn between green or blue for the next time), Darren is the blonde bombshell which leaves David as the last one in the group (he´s the one with the shaved head!)

I met up with the group for a coffee and chat during the week and whilst together we were approached numerous times by people thanking and telling the guys how much they enjoyed their show - and thats exactly what it is, a full on production show. The foursome have a great rapport together and that is reflected on stage as well as off.

I hope you haven´t flattened your mohican Mark!

One Vision is the brainchild of Mark and the group have been going for 5 years - Emma Louise has been with them for 4 of those and I was surprised to learn that she replaced Asa Elliott from the original lineup when he left to pursue other projects. Darren is the newest member, having been with them for just over a year, but they have such a close and harmonious relationship that you´d think they had known each other since childhood.

The group are not a Queen tribute band but a group that was formed based on the West End hit musical "We will Rock You" and all songs which they perform are in it. They regularly swop and add new songs to their show to maintain interest - there are some that they still haven´t used, especially as many holidaymakers come and watch the show night after night at Morgans Tavern. The musical is touring around Spain at the moment therefore the One Vision show is also attracting lots of Spanish people.

All four of them are singers and entertainers ( by profession Darren is a dancer) who have worked the Summer season at the top tourist destinations and also on numerous cruise liners. They are exclusive to Morgans Tavern (which is Neptunes Bar in the ITV comedy) where you can catch them at 11pm every night - except Wednesday when they have a much deserved night off and they also do 3 nights - Monday, Thursday and Saturday at the UK Comedy Bar at 10pm. If you want a more intimate environment then go to the Cabaret Bar - at Morgans its a full production rock show with stage, lights and shoulder to shoulder crowds. I was there to watch and they certainly get the crowds going - everyone had their arms raised and were clapping when they sang "We will Rock You". David and Mark also work as a duo under the name "Smart Move" 3 nights a week - it´s a cabaret show which you can catch at "Talk of the Coast" and "Sandra´s" at 10pm.... then the pair have to run down to Morgans afterwards - and they say entertainers have an easy relaxed life!

Crowds waiting at Morgans....

They are currently working on a new 80´s show called "Stand and Deliver" which will feature all the classics from the era by the likes of Frankie goes to Hollywood, Eurythmics, Adam and the Ants and many more which they plan to launch around September time. They never seem to stand still - only last Sunday they were sharing the stage of Benidorm Palace with the 60´s pop band "The Searchers". They were approached by the UK promoter and all said what a fabulous experience it was and in the future will be doing more shows at Benidorm Palace as a support act. They are popping over to the UK for a week in November on a "busman´s holiday" as One Vision, they were wanted for longer but have commitments here - I certainly hope that they don´t get poached whilst there!

Always having fun....

They four get on so well together that they even meet up during the day.... it certainly is one big happy family with this group. As they are so busy working they rarely get to go back home which for Emma Louise is in Chesterfield, for David Harrow in London, Darren is from the entertainment capital of the UK - Blackpool and Mark is from South Wales.
I look forward to watching their new 80´s show later this year - well the 80´s are my era music wise... good luck to you all and if you go and see them, they certainly will "Rock You"!
If you want to follow them they are on Facebook under One Vision - musician/band.

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What keeps Benidorm at the top?

2013-04-26T11:07:00.000+02:00

Beautiful beaches - the No 1 attraction

A report on the BBC breakfast programme earlier this week showed that Spain, along with Portugal came out tops as the cheapest and best value tourist destination - well Portugal was top but only by a few cents! The eurozone crisis is making holidaymakers look where their cash will stretch the furthest and unsurprisingly Spain continues to come out tops!

It is predominantly the International market that is sustaining the tourism sector here though - which is obvious as yesterday Spain declared that it is in the worse unemployment crisis in its history with 6.2 million out of work, equating to 27.16% of the population. Those under the age of 25 are the hardest hit by the crisis, with 57.2% unemployed - a truly staggering figure. As the tourist season begins some of those will be lucky and find work in the leisure industry, serving in bars and cafes - but this is only a temporary measure.

So what draws people here.... The beautiful sandy beaches and weather are the main factor - though if you are in the resort at the moment you wouldn´t think it! Yesterday we had torrential wind and rain all day and for once the weather back in the UK was better than here. The main plus point for businesses was that all the bars and cafes were packed to the rafters with holidaymakers! The Benidorm series has done wonders for tourism here - every time an episode is screened bookings go up! They are filming at the moment and will be here until the end of June.

However, it is often a struggle to find things to do and places to go when the weather is not appropriate for lounging by the pool or going to the beach. Many will head up to the Marina Shopping centre and browse around the shops - they also have a bowling alley up on the top floor. There is another bowling alley on the Avd Mediterraneo just near to the junction where it crosses with the Avd Europa. There is also a cinema which shows english films just before the IMED Levante private hospital on the Avd de Zamora in the Rincon de Loix (tel number 965 853 859)

The indoor market is another option and within walking distance of most hotels. There you will find a variety of shops, bars and cafes with many of them being British owned.... there is even an English book shop at the back. British ex-pat Vicki, owner of Hepburn´s Hair, Nail & Beauty Salon has just expanded her premises and opened a new beauty room so that she can offer her clients a peaceful and relaxing retreat. So its not all doom and gloom as is often portrayed with businesses closing down - if you offer the right service at the correct price then you will flourish...

But the main selling point for Benidorm has to be the value for money it offers on its food and drink - with emphasis on the drink! 1 euro pints are still available here - though on the main strip its generally 1.50 euro, but that still makes it only about 1.30 GBP which is substantially cheaper than back home I think (Im not a beer drinker but from what I hear thats a bargain). Perhaps that is why it is so popular with the "Stag & Hen" groups - Benidorm is THE most popular destination in Europe for them.

"Levis´Showboat" - always packed

Eating out is easy - there are so many value places that you are spoilt for choice. Cooked English breakfast for 2 euros or a three course Chinese with drink at under 5 euros has to be the bargain find but you can also get fabulous quality food at many restaurants and bars - one of the most talked about has to be Levi´s Showboat at the far end of the Rincon (next to the Hotel Levante Club). There you can get a home cooked 3 course meal for 11 euros - with one of the biggest selections you are likely to see. Tapas alley in the Old Town is also must do - 2 or 3 pieces of tapas is more than adequate for lunch and they start at 1 euro.

I find it a shame that those who chose all inclusive do not get to sample what is on offer, but as a parent also understand that with children, especially young ones you need to be able to budget - been there done it many years ago! But whatever board option you go for, we are just glad and thankful that you come here to this wonderful resort - often year after year. ps... I hope it stops raining for those out here now!

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British ex-pats give a helping hand

2013-04-25T07:30:00.000+02:00

Children of Emaus - well 54 of them!

Sometimes it seems if it wasn´t for the British ex-pats living here then many Spanish charities would go to the wall. Giving certainly does not appear to come easily or willingly to the locals from what I have witnessed over the years. Rattle a tin or offer raffle tickets for a fundraising charity event and they look the other way.... in these economically strained times it is understandable up to a point, but charities are struggling even more so now.

A few weeks ago local ex-pat Pete Cranage organised a special fundraising evening to raise much needed funds for Emaus, who are a well known charity on the Costa Blanca. They have 8 shelters dotted around the province which houses around 80 children - all of which have been taken into care by social services. Pete enlisted the help of one man supremo Matt King - entertainer, singer, performer all rolled into one and Rebecca Troch - Owner and Choreographer of the Broadway Dance Academy and together they raised a staggering 1490 euros!

Volunteers who came to help entertain - me included!

In addition to the fundraiser, a small group of members from the Companians Social Club (based in Albir) headed to one of the homes to put on an afternoon of fun and entertainment for the children. In total, 54 children attended from across the 8 homes - ranging in age from 4 to 16. They were first treated to lunch courtesy of "Something Else" ... a bistro in Albir. Dutch owner Els provided the lunch and chef free of charge and even fed all the staff and helpers.

After lunch the children all went outside and enjoyed a variety of activities... its harder than you think trying to organise that many children though (and the medicinal glass of wine in the evening was much needed!). The older ones took part in a game of football, cheered on by the younger ones on the touchline. Then it was time for the younger ones to have some fun - but it was somewhat peculiar trying to explain what an egg & spoon or three legged race is to a Spanish child though. Fortunately someone had the hindsight to boil he eggs first otherwise there would have been scrambled eggs on the pitch by the end of the afternoon! They also had a sack race, but using sturdy black plastic bin liners - Im not sure whether they still make the hessian ones like I remember in my childhood days.

Desks & chairs being collected from Computech

The facilities at the home I visited were basic to say the least and due to funding, or lack of, they rely heavily on donations. One very generous donation was made at the beginning of this week by Sonny Merali, a British computer engineer and owner of Computech in La Nucia. He donated 25 school desks and 40 chairs after his wife Suzanne saw the condition of the ones they were having to make do with - they are certainly extremely appreciative as are all the children who will be using them. Well done Sonny and Suzanne....

The first photograph was taken on the football pitch which was funded and installed by the Tartan Army Children´s Charity (TACC on face book). Due to security and child protection we cannot show the childrens faces but the photographer Alex had the brilliant idea of taking a picture with everyones backs to the camera - genius!

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Benidorm´s finest remember Hendy

2013-04-23T06:55:00.000+02:00

In the last year Benidorm has seen the sad and tragic loss of three of it´s well loved stars: Johnny Morgan of the Blues Brothers, Comedian Mike Curtis and just last month, Henderson "Hendy" Gibson - comedian and singer, probably better known by all as Cheroot.
Yesterday afternoon, the Stardust club in Benidorm was packed with fellow entertainers, friends and fans to celebrate his life - with many wearing yellow, his favourite colour and to remember the joy and laughter that Hendy bought to everyone who met him.

Girls Aloud

From 1pm until 5pm the stage was host to twenty of Benidorm´s top acts, who all wanted to pay tribute to this amazing friend and fellow entertainer... they are like one big family who look after each other here. It was incredible to watch so many different acts all in one place!

Organiser Lesley Ann with Meatloaf

Instigated and organised by Lesley Ann of the Meatloaf tribute - (you can catch her every night at Jokers 11pm and Sinartra´s at 12 midnight), she was so overwhelmed by the response from her fellow entertainers that she had to limit them to a ten minute slot each. The compare who kept everything running smoothly for the afternoon was funny man Jason Kane - one of the towns veterans.

Shaun Foster Conley

Proudly watching on was daughter Naomi, who was touched by the tremendous turnout in honour of her father. Some of the acts that took part in this marathon afternoon included Karen Dee and Angie Greer, Girls Aloud, Sean Foster Conley - who was the first cabaret singer from the Benidorm series - and talking of which even Derren Litten the writer popped in to show his support, Abba, One Vision, Gary George, Meatloaf ... many more in between and to finish the afternoon Take That.

One Vision

On Sunday night Emma Louise together with the rest of "One Vision" - We Will Rock You, were on the massive stage of Benidorm Palace, as support act for the 1960´s pop band "The Searchers".Yet the following day they were part of an incredible line up paying tribute to a fellow artiste - which was just as memorable and important for them all.

A raffle was held with many fabulous prizes all of which were donated by local bars, restaurants and businesses and a donation bucket was also available, with money collected going to his much loved wife Fiona - and thanks to everyones generosity an incredible 1700€ was raised! Henderson has left a massive hole in everyones hearts as was evident from all those that came.

Take That

The afternoon finished on a high with the boys from Take That taking to the stage - and not only four of them, but they were also joined by the original two members of the line up, making it a six-sum (I´m not too sure if that´s a proper word but you know what I mean).

Cheroot spanned an incredible career, from his hometown of Cambuslang in Scotland he went on to achieve a number of hits across the world, even attaining a number 1 hit in many European countries with his rock band "Shabby Tiger". But it was Benidorm that he made his home and where he will never be forgotten.

Friends and fans turned out in force

RIP Henderson Gibson.

A light from the family is gone.

A voice we loved is stilled.

A place is vacant in the home.

Which never can be filled.

We have to mourn the loss of one

We would´ve loved to keep.

But God who surely loved him best

Has finally made him sleep.

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The Searchers come to Benidorm

2013-04-20T22:36:00.000+02:00

Founding member John - holding the guitar

The 60´s pop band "The Searchers" are coming to the Costa Blanca to perform at The Benidorm Palace for a one off special show on Sunday 21st April 2013.

Originally founded in Liverpool back in 1959 by John McNally and Mike Pender, the four piece group changed members over the successive years. But John McNally, the driving force remains as the sole original member of the group.

They are one of many successful "Merseybeat" groups to hail from the area - others included the Beatles, the Hollies, the Swinging Bluejeans and Gerry and the Pacemakers but they are the ones still going strong over 50 years on !

At the beginning of April they were still performing in New Zeland then flew back to the UK to start their UK tour which began on11th April. They have shows lined up right until 31st December - in fact they are not flying into Alicante until a few hours before the show starts! How and where they get the energy from is a mystery....

Those lucky enough to be going to the Benidorm performance will be hoping to hear many of their classics such as "Needles and Pins" - they were the second group after the Beatles to have a hit in the United States back in 1964 and with that song, "Sweets for my Sweet", "When You Walk in the Room", "Sugar and Spice" and "Don´t Throw Your Love Away"....

A few tickets are still available and cost 25 euros - this is for the show only. For those that would like to make a night of it, they will have a special 8 euro menu offering either fish or chicken with chips. Door open at 7.30pm and the show will start at 8.30pm, giving you plenty of time to order and eat and should finish around 11pm.

There will also be a supporting act by way of Benidorm´s popular "One Vision" (We will Rock you) - what an amazing experience for them to be performing alongside such a legendary group.

Enjoy the show - it´s sure to be a great night. If you want to be certain of securing tickets call the box office on 965 851 660

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Does your hand luggage fit?

2013-04-19T12:08:00.000+02:00

Does it fit?

Now that holiday season is slowly creeping up thoughts are turning to how much to take with you! I can almost hear the men moaning and sighing already.... their opinion is what more do you need apart from a toothbrush and spare pair of pants! But I´m afraid that most girls will struggle with a mans approach to packing and what is and isn´t an essential. I have got my packing off to a T now.... but in days gone by I too would take a pair of shoes to match each outfit for the evening - and yes you´ve guessed it, wore the same pair for the entire week! I now only travel out with hand luggage, which at 10kg is adequate, but "sometimes" find that after a good shop around Sainburys, Tesco et al need to check a bag in.

Some of those look rather large!

But the hand luggage rules are very confusing ... all stipulate ONE piece but it´s a hit and miss. I discovered on Tuesday, when taking my daughter back to Alicante airport, that Monarch actually allow you to take a handbag in addition to your hand luggage, as long as they both fit into the cage. This I assume must be a recent change because when I travelled with my son back to Spain last summer the staff at the gate (Gatwick airport) made all the ladies put their handbags into their hand luggage. They stated clearly only ONE piece of luggage would be allowed through and they counted a ladies handbag as one! My "handbag" probably challenges trade descriptions but then I have a lot of what I deem essentials that I carry around with me.

Certainly not Asda prices!

However, Ryanair must take top spot for rigidly adhering to rules, especially with weight and size of your hand luggage. The eagle eyed cabin crew at the gate can spot a potential commission 100 metres away!
It makes the flying experience so stressful - it use to be a pleasure but now all you see are worried passengers fretting whether they will get through without being pulled up and slapped with an extortionate excess fee. It is a common sight spotting cases flying open and being "rearranged" whilst queueing at the gate to board...

Oh I hark back to the days when you didn´t have to worry about size of bags or whether your liquids exceeded the 100ml rule! Every since they stopped you taking your own drinks and water through security its been open season at the airport, with shops charging what they want - you are held to ransom... airport prices are a disgrace! Having said that, airline prices aren´t that much better - 1.70GBP for a half litre bottle of water or 2.40GBP for a cup of PG.... as for the price of alcohol, don´t even get me started!

Minitures for sale at Duty Free

I did notice that at the "Duty Free" in Gatwick they were selling miniatures at the tills - and on a 3 for 2 offer!
You are technically NOT allowed to drink your own spirits on board but many do, refusing to pay the airline prices - and obviously by selling them at the airport they are cashing in on this!
I see many passengers purchasing just a mixer then adding their pre bought spirit to it. Why, when you are "allowed" to bring soft drinks onboard and consume can you not bring alcohol on? I don´t understand their reasoning ... Oh silly me, its all to do with profit! Next they will be charging you to eat your own sandwiches - hope Mr O´Leary doesn´t read this, it may give him ideas!

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Benidorm 6 filming update

2013-04-18T07:18:00.000+02:00

Crew and generator van by HeartBreak

Yesterday, the crew were once again out along the Levante front - but this time they were filming in and around the Heartbreak Bar... that mecca for Harley Davidson bikers.
Before lunch they filmed at the bar next door to the Heartbreak with cast members Tony Maudsley - Kenneth, Tim Healy - as Lesley, so obviously all dressed and made up and Adam Gillen - Liam in the scene.

Film crew on a specially adapted mobility scooter

After lunch they had the unenviable task of filming a scene along the promenade - which was made extra difficult by all the Spanish tourists who kept walking along the filming strip oblivious, or at least pretending to be, to all the cameras and activity going on around them. I think that secretly they were hoping to get in on the filming....

The scene featured two of the younger members of the cast - Oliver Stokes who plays Michael Garvey and newcomer Danny Walters, who plays Tiger, a member of the new family that have joined this sixth series. The boys were filmed riding along the promenade on a single mobility scooter and causing havoc!

Michael and Tiger .... this pair look like trouble!

Cameraman Ali was also perched on a specially adapted Amigo 24 mobility scooter with his camera, filming the scene a few metres in front of the boys. The extra´s, and there were 70 of them today, had to walk along the front on the signal, pretending to be tourists meandering along.

Deputy Mayor Gema, Pere and me "on set"!

But it wasn´t only holidaymakers that stopped to watch what was going on - there was a suprise visitor by way of Gema Amor, Benidorm´s Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Tourism. She popped along to see how filming was going and spoke to Pere, the Spanish Production Manager and myself. She was amazed at how many people were stopping just to watch what was going on. We explained that it was like this every day whenever they were filming.... the series had a huge fan base both in the UK and here in Spain, among the ex-pats.

Crew checking pole has been put up correctly!

After the promenade sequence the crew then shifted inside the Heartbreak bar..... where at the back Colin and the prop team had erected a pole - and you know what that means! Yes a pole dancer.... but its wasn´t one of the cast so don´t start speculating that it may be Madge! For those of you that haven´t been into the HeartBreak, there isn´t usually one there - but after this episode is screened, which is the first one they may find an unusually high number of people coming in and looking for it, so maybe they will change their mind? But then again, it´s not normally an activity associated with Harley bikers!

Oliver giving me the thumbs up

Five Harley bikers were also asked to be extras for the day - together with their beautiful shiny machines, which were lined up outside. Between takes Oliver ventured outside and whilst admiring them was invited by the owner to have a seat whilst they chatted together. Maybe he will think about buying himself one in the future... he certainly seemed impressed, as would most people!

The cast and crew had to wait until sunset to film a last scene with the sun going down in the background.... unfortunately I didn´t stay as my kitchen beckoned!

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An evening for the Ladies

2013-04-17T09:12:00.000+02:00

Salon was opened by Benidorm cast members

As Kool & The Gang sang "Oh yes it´s ladies night and the feeling´s right, Oh yes it´s ladies night, Oh what a night" - and so it shall be this Thursday at Claire´s Hair, Nail & Beauty Salon in Albir.

The salon was opened in October 2011 by Benidorm cast members Sherrie Hewson and Tim Healy - who are both clients of the salon. Claire did the nails for both of them plus other cast members during filming of the 5th series - incase you are not aware, Tim plays a cross dresser hence the nails! Matthew Kelly also came along to the opening so as you can see her client list is quite impressive. Who knows, as they are currently filming series 6 you may even bump into one of the cast there....

Claire, an expert at knowing what us ladies need and want is hosting a special "Ladies night" starting at 6pm on the evening of Thursday 18th April.

Luxurious interior...

Entry is free and you will have the opportunity to look around the plush interior and talk with the staff. Throughout the evening there will be demonstrations and consultations - Claire was telling me about a new amazing machine called "Body Beautiful" where you can drop a dress size in only 6 sessions !

There will be an Indian buffet and Cava provided by Saritas - probably one of the best Indian restaurants on the Costa Blanca - there is no charge but you are asked to make a donation. Throughout the evening there will be a raffle and also bids for a man´s "back wax" will be taking place (there is already a volunteer earmarked for this) ... with proceeds going towards the Relleu Children´s Orphanage - so please be generous for this very worthy cause.

Crowds attending the grand opening

There will be many special offers and discounts on procedures booked that evening such as 50% off teeth whitening and 10% off botox, so come with your diary to take advantage of these discounts. You can also chose to relax by having a free 10 minute Indian Head Massage session or browse at some of the beautiful jewellry which will be on sale.

Tarrick from Gold Rush Javea will also be there - you can bring in any gold and silver you would like valued or if you want to sell anything, especially odd or broken pieces he has one of the best reputations along the coast on prices.... so you may even leave richer than when you walked in!

I´m looking forward to a lovely girly evening and hope to see some of you there too - incase you are not sure where exactly Claires is located it is on the Avd del Albir, the main road running towards the beach. Go over the Lidl roundabout and head straight down.... it is located to the side of the Norwegian Bok Cafe (with the huge sun terrace and awnings) on the left hand side and opposite the Chinese restaurant. You can park in the municipal carpark where the Sunday market is held and walk up, heading away from the beach.

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What do you bring back from your holiday?

2013-04-16T16:50:00.000+02:00

On the shopping list - cheap local spirits

When visitors come on holiday to Spain they often have a shopping list of things to take back with them. Obviously, cigarettes and alcohol top that list... whether you are a smoker or not - although technically illegal, many will bring back a carton or two for friends and family. Unless you are bringing back a suitcase full of multiple cartons of different brands you are generally not bothered by customs. The savings in comparison to UK prices certainly makes it worthwhile. Spirits are also considerably cheaper - not so much the premium ones such as Smirnoff but the local Spanish brands such as "Aguilar". Take for example a litre of Vodka or Gin - you can pay as little as 4.95€ and it comes in a plastic bottle too! I find that if you are mixing them there is little difference in taste - but maybe a connoisseur will correct me on the matter!

Available everywhere in Benidorm

Other recent must buy items are "Flossy´s".... these are vividly coloured canvas pumps / deck shoes and come in a variety of styles. Originally worn by sailing enthusiasts in the Balearics, the craze soon spread and everyone seems to be wearing them now! They can be bought here in most shops for about 7.99€, less than half of the UK price. However, even inflation has hit the Flossy market as I remember last year they were selling for only 5€! I have witnessed people taking back suitcases full of them - in fact, one lady I know went back to the UK yesterday with about 20 pairs for friends and family!

Holidays are not complete unless a trip to the Wednesday or Sunday outdoor market is made - and most ladies will head straight to the handbag stalls which are run by the West Africans. There you will find an assortment of counterfeit designer brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Tous..... and not to feel left out, the men home in on the sunglasses! Some of them are actually really good copies too. However, I remember one occasion when a friend was on holiday and wanted to take one back. Off we trekked and she was delighted to purchase a white what she thought was Louis Vuitton copy with the initials on in various colours. We haggled over the price - general rule of thumb is aim at half of what they initially say. But when we got home and looked again we realised that the "LV" initial was actually "RV" .... your eye sees what it thinks it wants to see.

Must do... one of the outdoor markets

There is a market on virtually every day of the week in one of the surrounding towns - the biggest and probably best is in Benidorm, held every Wednesday and Sunday morning. The next best is probably Altea, which is held on a Tuesday - the number 10 bus goes virtually to the beginning but be warned it is always packed to the rafters (its the last stop).

You will also probably see what we call the "looky looky" men (again very dark West African type) peddling their wears on the street - normally fake designer handbags and sunglasses. They are commonly found in Calpe - especially in and around the fish restaurants in the harbour. When they see any police they scoop up the blankets with their merchandise and run away until the coast is clear again. Over the years whilst eating in many of the Calpe restaurants, apart from the obvious I have also been offered fishing rods, dvd´s, tableclothes, kango drills among the ones I can remember. If you say no they generally go away and don´t bother you again - but within 10 or 15 minutes another one will be along.

Peamen on Avd Mediterraneo with crowd

Over the weekend the looky looky men were out and about on the main promenade in Alicante when the police tried swooped. They managed to run about 300 metres before giving up and when they returned to their cars one 60 year old lady reprimanded them for giving up so easily. Well they took offence to this and began issuing her with a fine for 200€! Other passing pedestrians started clapping at what the lady was saying - I think probably in amazement that the police had actually left their cars and given chase and went on to issue another four 200€ fines for "disturbing the peace". One man was told that if he didn´t stop clapping he would be taken into custody for "Obstruction of justice and disorderly conduct"... Shame that the police don´t get so heavy handed with the true criminals such as the pea men!

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Elvis arrives in Benidorm - ah ha!

2013-04-14T10:11:00.001+02:00

Elvis taking a break!

For the third successive year "Elvis Fest" has come to Benidorm for a 3 day tribute to "The King of Rock n´Roll". Fans have arrived from across the world, including Germany and the USA - in fact, all 600 tickets were sold out before the event had even started!

Shows have been taking place at three separate venues: The Melia Hotel, across the road at the Rock & Roll House and Levi´s Showboat which are all private ticket only events - once registered you are given a wrist band so no need to worry about losing your ticket! Unfortunately there are no more tickets available and many holidaymakers having just realised that the event is on have been left disappointed that they could not buy any - the chief reason is to guarantee ticket holders a seat.

Organiser Peter Phillips is delighted with the turnout - he is the driving force behind the Benidorm event following its continued success in Porthcawl, which is the biggest Elvis festival in Europe. Last year the event attracted over 31,000 visitors with 50 artists performing and generated thousands for the local economy! Now in its 10th year, Porthcawl started in a similar way and has snowballed, so who knows in a few years time what may happen here!

Ten top Elvis tribute artists are performing including "Gordon Elvis" who won the best Elvis in Memphis and Paul Larcombe, who has performed for the Queen and is the first ever Elvis tribute artist to be officially endorsed by the Elvis Presley Enterprises at Graceland!

They certainly couldn´t have picked a better weekend weather wise ... those from the UK especially are enjoying listening to their favourite artist and basking in the sun at the Melia, which is an outside venue. Even the lucky hotel guests lounging by the pool are able to enjoy listening to the fabulous voices of the various Elvis´s!

Many of the fans have also dressed like their idol - its quite disconcerting seeing double visions of Elvis at various stages in his life! You can see hotel guests, who are unaware of the event doing a double take as they walk around the lobby area.

The date of next years event is 11th - 13th April and ticket reservations are already being taken. With this years event having sold out well ahead of time it is anticipated that many which were unlucky this time will have secured theirs for next year.

The event is growing in popularity and demand for tickets will get even bigger... you can pop along today to the Melia and speak to Kate at the Elvis registration desk which is located next to the main hotel reception to enquire about next years Elvis Fest.

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