Malaga is chosen by Forbes among 20 best European cities to live, invest and work

by Alpha Estates | Nov 16, 2020 | LIFESTYLE COSTA DEL SOL - MARBELLA

Malaga is chosen by Forbes among 20 best European cities to live, invest and work.

The research by Forbes aimed to discover the most American-friendly destinations in Europe, those with the best quality of life, best internet connections for remote working so that you can keep your job in the U.S. or launch your online project and set up your business. The initial list consisted of 120 top European destinations.

Based on various criteria including the presence of an international school, quality of life, health care system, internet connection, proximity to airports with international flights, cost of living, active expat community and low crime rate, the Best European Destinations (EBD) organization has revealed the 20 finalists that included three destinations in Spain – Madrid, San Sebastian and Malaga. Malaga has ranked 10th place, whereas Madrid and San Sebastian second and forth respectively.

According to EBD, Spain is a country in constant evolution — dynamic, culturally incomparable and “a destination that will appeal to even the most demanding“. Sunnier than France, Spain also offers good health care and school systems. If you love Europe for its culture, openness, architecture, events, weddings, tradition or gastronomy, you will love Malaga. Sometimes associated mostly with sun and beaches, the city is much more than that. It has the highest concentration of museums per square kilometer in Europe, high quality of life, security, rich culture, good health care services and sun almost throughout the year. Malaga is family friendly and also very suitable for single digital nomads or couples, as well as retirees who wish to live an active, culturally rich and lively retirement. Open-minded and tolerant, Malaga also attracts gay expats. The city offers a variety of schools including the British School of Malaga and many public and private. Malaga is one of the Spanish destinations with the greatest tourist growth.

Top 14 traditional Spanish Foods you must try on the Costa del Sol

by Alpha Estates | Jul 11, 2019 | LIFESTYLE COSTA DEL SOL - MARBELLA

The Costa del Sol is famous for its beaches, mild climate… and fine dining by the Mediterranean. Either on the outdoor terrace of a restaurant or a chiringuito ( beach bar) by the sea, having grilled prawns or paella is a sort of ritual on the Costa del Sol.

Costa del Sol prides itself on its rich Andalusian cuisine influenced by Arabic, Roman and Phoenician cultures, as it was a popular maritime hub in the Mediterranean region drawing visitors from far and wide. Generally, Andalusian cuisine is based on a Mediterranean diet, with plenty of vegetables, fruits, olive oil, fine meat and fish.

Spanish cuisine is an explosion of colour, taste and passion; the southern coastal region of Andalusia has the most iconic Spanish cuisine. In addition, the great contrast of the landscape and climate here brings about a wonderful range of cuisine, rich in flavours and diversity.
 

1. Paella

Paella

Paella is one of the most popular dish in coastal areas of Spain and the Costa del Sol. There are three main types of paella: Paella Valenciana, Seafood paella and Paella mixta. Usually it is prepared with shrimps, squids, clams and white fist and in the Paella Mixta often added chicken. This saffron rice dish symbolizes the union and heritage of two important cultures – the Roman and the Arab and was born in the rural areas of Valencia around 15th and 16th centuries. Nourishing, vibrant, and served without pretension, paella has held a place of honor and practicality in for centuries.

2. Jamon Iberico

Jamon Iberico

Jamon is a cured country ham produced in Spain. Jamon represents the finest of Spanish cuisine and this regional dish is tightly linked to culture and history of the country as a whole.
There are two primary types: Jamón serrano and Jamón ibérico. Present in all tapas bars, restaurants, and most Spanish homes, this delicious cured ham is a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy Jamon Iberico like a Spaniards with tomatoes and toast, or pair it with your favourite spanish wine.
 

3. Gaspacho

Gaspacho

One of the most effective summer cooler and one of the most preferred andalusian starters – a cold Spanish soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, red peppers and olive oil. Two popular Andalucian variations of these cold soup are Salmorejo popular in Cordoba (similar to gazpacho but thicker and contains only tomatoes as vegetables) and Ajoblanco popular in Granada ( white soup that has bread, almonds,olive oil and of course bread and garlic). Usually served as a starter or a drink with bread and with garnishes: hard-boiled egg, small pieces of cucumber, pepper, spring onion, cubes of jamon and so on.
 

4. Fritura Malagueña / Fried Fish

Pescaito Frito

Going to the Costa del Sol without trying fried fish would be like visiting the beach without going for a swim! Fritura Malagueña consists of the smaller seafood varieties, namely: small fish, crustaceans and shellfish that can be readily eaten, floured, crispy and golden, without worrying about any bones. Add a splash of lemon and taste the wide variety of fishes from Malaga’s coast. Typically eaten in local beach bars ( chiringuitos) where you can enjoy the freshest fish, Mediterranean breeze, sounds of waves and a glass of cold drink at the same time.
 

5. Churros

Churros

When you’re on the Costa del Sol, you’re bound to have churros at least once. Churros are a fried-dough pastry snack with a peculiar long form, fried until they become crunchy, and sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. Fresh churros are meant to be savored for breakfast, dipped into thick hot chocolate or served with café con leche. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside and they have a flavor no one can resist!
 

6. Turron

Turron

Spanish nougat confection, typically made of honey, sugar, and egg white, with toasted almonds or other nuts, and usually shaped into either a rectangular tablet or a round cake. With a rich, sweet and nutty flavor, turrón may be hard and brittle, or soft and toffee-like. Color wise it can range from white to the deepest caramel. In its simplest, most traditional form, there are just three ingredients – almonds, honey and egg white.
 

7. Gambas Al Pil Pil

Prawns Pil Pil

Prawns served with a spicy sauce are what the Andalusians know and love as gambas al pil-pil. The salsa is made up of a combination of garlic, paprika, chillies, and white wine. Cooked in an oven-proof dish, this starter arrives to your table sizzling. Served with masses of crusty bread, this is another must try on the Costa del Sol! Don’t forget to dip your bread in the sauce, and sit back and enjoy the Spanish life.
 

8. Tortilla

Tortilla

Spanish omelette, or literally Spanish tortilla, is a traditional dish from Spanish cuisine called tortilla española or tortilla de patatas. It is a big part of the cuisine of Spain. Along with jamon and olive oil, tortillas are probably amongst the most commonly eaten Spanish dishes in the world. Made of pan-fried potatoes and onion, it makes a delicious light vegetarian meal or an easy tapas dish.
 

9. Olives

Olives

Spain produces more than 250 different varieties of olives to be eaten whole or pressed into olive oil. Olives are served in Andalucia both whole and pitted. Whole olives are a favourite both as appetisers and in fresh salads. Healthy and delicious olive appetizer traditionally served in all beach bars along the coast. If you have never been huge fan of olives, we recommend you to give it another try!
 

10. Rabo de Toro

Rabo de Toro

Spanish bull tail stew (rabo de toro estofado) is one of Spain’s most typical stews. Dating back to Roman times, rabo de toro is actually an Andalusian creation, supposedly inspired in Córdoba. It is an intensely flavoured dish with a rich garlicky sauce & soft beef. Delicious with potatoes!
 

11. Ensalada Malagueña / Malaga Salad

Malaga Salad

No salad is more representative of the beautiful coastal city of Malaga than the one that bears its name: Malaga style salad. It captures the essence of what Malaga and its terrain is, combining perfectly the taste of the sea and the fresh vegetable gardens. A summer dish due to its freshness that is full of strong and distinctive flavours and great example of Mediterranean food that allows you to make the most of the local produce in a healthy way. Made up of a potato base and accompanied by oranges, finely cut onion, bacalao-cod, hard-boiled eggs and green olives.
 

12. Tarta Malagueña

Tarta Malagueña

This cake, made with almonds and Malaga sweet wine – two of Malaga’s own specialities, as well as apricot jam, is sweet enough that you will only need to try a little slice. It is decorated on top with raisins (another one of the typical foods from Malaga) and thinly sliced almonds. It goes down perfectly with a cup of coffee and makes the perfect afternoon snack for when you need a bit of a sugar hit!
 

13. Pipirrana

Ensalada Pipirrana

This is another salad dish that is not only well loved in Malaga, but all over the region of Andalusia. It’s a cold salad made from finely chopped red pepper, green pepper, tomato, onion, olives, tuna, and mussels or other seafood dressed with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt – perfect for eating during our long, hot summers!
 

14. Boquerones – Anchovies

Boquerones Fritos

Number 14 on our list is the most important one! There is a colloquial meaning to boquerones in Malaga. It is an affectionate way of calling a Malaga proud native. Such as saying, “Antonio Banderas is a boqueron”. Don’t be surprised if you hear a local exclaim, “Soy Malagueño! Soy Boquerón!”
Two most popular types are Boquerones fritos Al Limon and Boquerones en Vinagre, and you will be sure to find them in every malagueño tapas bar.
Boquerones al vinagre are fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar or a mixture of vinegar and olive oil, and seasoned with garlic and parsley. Boquerones fritos Al Limon are a deep fried version of anchoives. Perfect alongside a bit of homemade alioli sauce!

Order boquerones with a caña of beer and you’ll be living the Andalusian lifestyle in no time!

Costa del Sol Spotlight: MIJAS COSTA

by Alpha Estates | Jun 20, 2019 | LIFESTYLE COSTA DEL SOL - MARBELLA

Conveniently positioned between two major urban hubs of the Costa del Sol – Marbella and Malaga, Mijas Costa stretches 12 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast. This is one of the largest resorts on the Costa del Sol and thanks to its uniquely convenient position, it has become one of the most popular areas to visit on the Costa del Sol and many choose this location to settle permanently.

Here you can find something for everyone: if you are attracted to the more fashionable and well known places there is the famous Olivia’s in La Cala de Mijas, where you can mingle with celebrities. On the other side of the coin, if you love tranquility and nature, the mountains offer great hiking routes with spectacular views over the coast. You need not look further than Mijas Pueblo – this typical pueblo blanco is filled with traditional Spanish activities, cuisine, and architecture.

La Cala De Mijas

If you are looking to discover Mijas Costa, we recommend you start with La Cala De Mijas. This is one of the biggest coastal resorts in Mijas and we love its great ambiance, sandy beaches and Andalusian fishing village feel mixed with a cosmopolitan touch. La Cala de Mijas has grown a lot in size in recent years, this will be clear to you when you see the amount of cranes around it and just freshly completed new developments of modern apartments and houses.

La Cala de Mijas is a town that offers a wide selection of typical Spanish restaurants and tapas bars, mixed with worldly choices – Chinese restaurants, Thai, Italian, French, Indian and the list goes on. Something to choose for everyone’s taste and pocket. If you are looking for something more glamorous, head towards the beach and you find there Olivia’s bar. Opened in 2015 by celebrities, by now it has become emblematic to La Cala de Mijas and it is one of the most glamorous places in La Cala de Mijas. Located beachfront, it is a stunning spot to enjoy a Mediterranean breeze, the sounds of waves while listening to jazz music and enjoying a fancy cocktail. With its panoramic views, this upscale restaurant brings a splash of glamour to La Cala de Mijas.

One thing residents and visitors love about La Cala de Mijas, is its new boardwalk. If you like strolling by the sea, stopping off at the many bars and restaurants along it, it offers an excursion in itself. The new La Cala boardwalk was completed by Mijas Town Hall in 2015, it is a 6km walk that ends 500 meters short of Cabopino passing through Calahonda. The boardwalk forms part of the Senda Litoral De Malaga (Malaga coastal path) The board walk has bar’s and restaurant’s along the way as it hugs the coastline.

La Cala de Mijas – Boardwalk

La Cala Golf Resort

Now head 6km inland to continue our Mijas discovery and visit La Cala Golf Resort. Even if you have never played golf in your life, and do not plan to start, La Cala Golf Resort is a home to one of the most spectacular Spa Hotels and Clubhouses in Mijas Costa. Here you feel theexclusive ambiance of the area, with manicured gardens and pavements, incredibly well maintained grounds designed with your enjoyment in mind – this is a sporting and relaxation mecca.

La Cala Golf Resort offers you a luxury golf and spa experience with three fantastic golf courses named after the continents ( Campo America, Campo Asia and Campo Europa) and a stunning club house with a spa and wellness centre, gymnasium and restaurant. It also has a host of top class sporting facilities, within its vast grounds. It is a wonderful place to have a round of golf in magnificent natural surroundings offering mountain and sea views, or choose a cooling dip after a luxurious aromatherapy massage in the spa, and then, lunch with friends in the Club House terrace.

La Cala Golf – Golf course and Club House

Mijas Pueblo

Mijas Pueblo is our next port of call. Located on the hillside of the sierra of the municipality of Mijas. It is the most visited white village on the Costa del Sol. This beautiful corner of Andalusia offers tourists a wide range of things to do and see. From enjoying its beautiful physionomy to visiting its monuments, tasting its traditional cuisine and buying arts and crafts. Its winding streets, charming nooks and crannies, flower-decked houses and numerous tiny squares all contribute to Mijas’ popularity. Mijas was declared a Historic-Artistic village in 1969 and has been authentically preserved ever since.

Views to Mijas Costa from mountain side

If you are an intrepid hiker who likes to walk a network of paths, you can not miss the Red Trail of Mijas, a great opportunity to explore the natural surroundings of Mijas, whose starting point is the Mirador de Mijas Pueblo. Another fabulous hiking option is hiking to Pico Mendoza (Mijas). Check out the video below:

Sources:
https://blog.fuertehoteles.com/en/destinations/mijas-pueblo/
https://www.spain-holiday.com/Mijas-Pueblo/articles/mijas-pueblo-a-view-of-the-costa-del-sol
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mijas
https://www.mijas.es/portal/
https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/circular-pico-malaga-o-mendoza-banco-de-la-memoria-sierra-de-mijas-mijas-malaga-01-10-2018-29200605
https://turismo.mijas.es/es/naturaleza/senderismo
Visit our website to check properties in Mijas Costa are for sale: www.alphaestates.com

Best Golf Courses in Marbella

by Alpha Estates | Apr 17, 2019 | LIFESTYLE COSTA DEL SOL - MARBELLA

Discover the Best Courses on the Marbella Golf Scene

Credit to: https://golfscape.com/marbella-golf-courses

Travel to one of the best golf destinations in Europe to play at some of the world’s most famous courses in Marbella. Rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, siestas, fiestas, and flamenco – all await you in the lush landscapes of the Costa del Sol. Nestled within this Spanish region lies the luxurious area of Marbella. Abundant in white sand beaches, crystal blue waters and the idyllic Mediterranean climate, golf in Marbella is definitely one to add to the bucket list! From challenging greens to sparkling sea views, explore our top recommendations to golf Marbella.
 

La Reserva Club Sotogrande

Often referred to as a ‘jewel in the Sotogrande crown’, La Reserva Club truly embodies the elegance and beauty of the region. This 18 hole championship course stretches across 7400 yards and offers one of the finest golf tests in dreamy Andalucia. With its immaculate greens spread along sweeping fairways, the course represents an exciting challenge for golf lovers. La Reserva is recommended course that just has to be played by those who plan to golf Marbella, Spain.
 

Finca Cortesin

Situated within a stunning resort on the picturesque landscape of Marbella, the course at Finca Cortesin is an 18 hole championship layout. It is one of the best golf courses Costa del Sol has on offer. The attractive design of the course is the courtesy of Cabell B. Robinson. Furthermore, the design features natural Mediterranean vegetation, lush forestation, and rich flora.
 

La Zagaleta Golf Club

Originally designed by Bradford Benz in 1991, this spectacular 18 hole course was re- designed by Marc Westenborg in 2016. Exclusive to its members, La Zagaleta Golf Club is truly a Mediterranean golf paradise. In addition to this, it offers a challenging yet world-class golf experience complete with demanding bunkers. The course is nestled in a lush valley, hosting rising peaks and wooded hills, overlooking enchanting landscapes of Marbella, the Mediterranean Sea, and distant African shore.
 

Real Club de Golf Sotogrande

Officially opened in 1964, Real Club de Sotogrande is the first course Robert Trent Jones designed in Europe, and it should definitely be on the bucket list of those who plan to golf Marbella. The layout incorporates Trent’s design philosophy — it is subtly blended into the natural environment, highlighting wide fairways, and long tees. In fact, this fascinating par-72 course offers features enjoyable for everyone, yet challenging for advanced players.
 

Real Club de Golf Guadalmina

With its two 18 hole championship golf courses, Guadalmina Golf Club offers some of the most impressive facilities on the Costa del Sol golf scene. Opened in 1973, Guadalmina North is the design of Folco Nardi. It measures slightly shorter and features more water hazards when compared to Guadalmina South. The latter’s design was laid out by Javier Arana in 1959 and is nevertheless known for its more challenging layout.
 

Marbella Golf & Country Club

Design of the famous Robert Trent Jones Senior, Marbella Golf Country Club is one of Marbella’s shining golf stars – a spot that certainly should not be skipped by those conquering the golf clubs around the Costa del Sol. Set amongst rolling hills of the natural landscape, the course offers exciting downhill and uphill shots. Additionally, the combination of daring bunkers and tricky water hazards promise a unique challenge.
 

Chaparral Golf Club

With its rich vegetation, stunning sea views, and excellent facilities, El Chaparral Golf Club is set to charm its visitors. Each one of the 18 holes at El Chaparral offers views of different, yet captivating natural scenery. In addition to this, the course is nestled in close proximity to Fuengirola, a popular location on the dreamy Costa del Sol. Stretching across 6343 yards, the course is the only one in the region with 6 par 5’s, 6 par 4’s, and 6 par 3’s.
 

Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club

The course at Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club is a design masterpiece by the legendary Severiano Ballesteros. This stunning 18 hole layout was opened in 1991 and represents a true golf gem of the region. The philosophy behind the design was to achieve harmony with the course’s natural environment, which resulted in picturesque scenery that demands accurate play and curated precision.
 

La Resina Golf & Country Club

Designed by Craig Cook and Bradley Smith in 2005, La Resina Golf & Country Club is a particularly charming layout where elements of nature are tenuously preserved throughout the property. Ancient olive trees, romantic lakes, and beautiful tropical gardens form an atmosphere of elegance and serenity, promising an unforgettable round of golf.
 

La Quinta Golf & Country Club

Nestled in the very heart of Golf Valley, La Quinta Golf & Country Club was laid out by one of Spain’s golf ambassadors, Manuel Piñero. This 27 hole layout is subtly engraved into the natural topography of the Mediterranean coast, encircled with mountains, and overlooking the Sea. Furthermore, with the variety of world-class amenities, the club offers a stunning golf retreat for all players.
 

El Paraiso Golf Club

Situated within the beautiful El Paraiso Valley against the backdrop of La Concha Mountain, El Paraiso Golf Club has one of the best championship layouts on the coast of Andalucia. Featuring lakes, lush greens, and an abundance of Mediterranean flora, the course is a golfing paradise that will leave golfers feeling completely relaxed.
 

Campo America, La Cala Golf Resort

La Cala Golf Club is a stunning facility situated within the idyllic location of Andalucia’s La Cala Resort. The resort is home to three superb championship courses. Campo America is a 6572-yard course boasting views of the Mediterranean Sea and the dreamy town of Ojén. Rolling hills, lush fairways, and subtly spread water hazards make this La Cala one of the best golf resorts in Marbella.
 

Alferini Course, Villa Padierna Golf Club

Villa Padierna Golf Club is a breathtaking golf complex comprising of three fabulous courses. With Andalucia’s timeless beauty incorporated into the design of the courses, Villa Padierna is known as a magical golf oasis. The Alferini course is a spectacular 18 hole layout that spreads elegantly across 7263 yards of lush fairways.
 

Old Course, Atalaya Golf Country Club

Atalaya Golf Club features two spectacular golf courses, offering golfers one of Costa del Sol’s best golf experiences regardless of skill level. The Old course is the design of Bernard von Limburger and boasts stunning views of the La Concha Mountains. Additionally, the club offers one of the largest driving ranges in the area and also provides lessons in a variety of languages.
 

Rio Real Golf & Hotel

Established in 1965, Rio Real Golf Course is a layout designed by the world-renowned Javier Arana. The idyllic course is considered by the Royal Spanish Golf Federation as one of the most prestigious golf experiences in Marbella and one of the best in Spain. Just a short distance away from the city center, Rio Real is an incredible 18 hole course that runs alongside the Rio Real River.
 

Marbella Golf Club Golf Resort

Designed by the renowned Dave Thomas, Marbella Club Golf Resort is home to the 18 hole world-class course that exceeds the highest of expectations. Here, you’ll find carefully contoured fairways with strategically placed bunkers to test your game, alongside the beautiful views of waterfalls and lakes. Enjoy this Marbella Golf Course in the heart of the Costa del Sol and take in the views of the surrounding mountains complementing the Mediterranean Sea.

Credit to: https://golfscape.com/marbella-golf-courses

Malaga is nominated for 20 Best European destinations 2019! Voting takes place now!

by Alpha Estates | Jan 29, 2019 | LIFESTYLE COSTA DEL SOL - MARBELLA

“Malaga is a city that leaves no one indifferent”.

Malaga is on its way to a boom town! We all know and love it. It is a fantastic place to visit and to live and a city with the huge potential. According to the nominee criteria, Malaga is a city “combining tradition and modernity, gastronomy, the beach and culture along with a world-class selection of museums”.

Among the other 20 nominees are well-established tourist hotspots as Rome, Lisbon, Geneva and etc. Of course, all 20 nominated cities are stunning. Past Best European Destination have included Wroclaw ( Poland) in 2018 and Oporto ( Portugal) in 2017.

The winning destination reaps other benefits too. According to the organisers, the winning destination can expect 15% more tourism and media coverage typically sees an increase of up to 80%.

How to vote for Malaga to be crowned as Best European Destination 2019

With our full support and admiration to Malaga, we have already given our votes for Malaga and we encourage those who have not voted yet to do so as well.

We have until February 5 to cast our votes at the following website:

www.europeanbestdestinations.com/european-best-destinations-2019/