www.theolivepress.es the olive press - February 25 - March 10, 2010 9 All about TheR ock Gibraltar rocks!

Forget sunburned ex-pats and cheap booze, Jon Clarke discovers that the Med’s little Britain has had a

makeover (www.dotcom.gi/photos) © DM Parody Photo:

LIDING down the high street of Gi- braltar it was impossible to miss Miss World. G But, incredibly, newly-crowned beau- ty Kaiane Aldorino, 23, went almost entirely unnoticed, without a snapper, autograph hunter or fan in sight, as she window-shopped and enjoyed a rare glimpse of Spring weather last week. How different it was to her triumphant return in December, when 15,000 people turned out to cheer her crowning in South Africa. “It is great to be back on the Rock,” she told me, stopping for a chat outside Marks & Spen- cer. “After recent trips to Japan and Brunei there is something incredibly calming about the place. “It is partly the unique location, but it is also the incredibly friendly people.” Aldorino, who scooped the crown in Decem- ber, is set to become the fi rst genuine Gibral- tarian megastar, running fashion designer John Galliano into a clear second place. Yet, Gibraltar has seen a long line of celebri- ties over the last few decades, the vast major- ity however, coming to tie the knot. Cheaper and quicker to marry in Gib than in

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SACERELLOS 10 the olive press - February 24 - March 10, 2010 www.theolivepress.es Gibraltarwww.theolivepress.es special the olive press - February 25 - March 10, 2010 1111

From page 9 the UK. Luminaries of note in- clude actors Sir John Mills, Sean Connery and even John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Super Gib The most recent was Status Quo star Rick Parfi tt, who married 200 years until, during World War fi tness instructor Lyndsay Whit- II, there were an amazing 32 miles burn, before settling on the Costa of tunnels inside the rock (many del Sol, near Alhaurin. more than on the outside), and Wedding snaps taken against the space to house 16,000 people. looming backdrop of the Rock - Arguably the most impressive de- the 426-metre sheer limestone es- fensive system in the world – like carpment – must look spectacular. a veritable Swiss cheese - you can Not that Parfi tt hung around long now visit the often claustrophobic enough to visit the fascinating tunnel network. colony, that includes the only wild Children will love exploring the monkeys in Europe. passages that once held the offi ce Parfi tt and his new wife had de- of General Eisenhower and thou- parted the postage-stamp size sands of troops, who often did not state - which is just two-and-a-half see daylight for months at a time. miles square - within an hour of The strategic reasons for such sac- the nuptials. rifi ce are fully appreciated once A few years ago that might have you climb – or take the cable car been justifi ed. The fi rst time I vis- - to the top. ited the British protectorate in the Look inland to the pointed peaks Photos: © DM Parody (www.dotcom.gi/photos) early 1990s, the Rock was little of the beautiful Serrania de Ronda; more than a tacky, rubbish-strewn and out to sea, across the Straits to enclave, full of squaddies and the Rif Mountains of Morocco. Union jack sticks of rock. Its best At 1,398 feet you are at the top of known restaurant was a Wimpy. one of the mythical pillars of Her- Known for the endless queues to cules – the other Jbel Musa just BEAUTY: Miss Gib get past the Spanish border guards across the sea in Africa. crowned world’s best – the frontier was shut until the Peering down at one of the busiest It’s ssoo early Eighties when reaching the bottlenecks of water in the world Rock meant a long boat trip via (about 12 miles in width) it is easy to kind. For it is up here that you will Morocco - most visitors did little understand why Gibraltar has been fi nd the only wild apes in Europe. unique more than buy duty-free fags and ROCKING: Parfi tt tied a key naval base for centuries. Numbering some 250 or so, it is sink a couple of pints of warm bit- Whoever controlled the Rock, unsure exactly how the colony of New Miss World ter. They might as well have been the knot in Gibraltar controlled the Mediterranean (See tail-less Barbary macaques got in Benalmadena. every turn. feature I am the Med on page 26), here from North Africa. on why she loves But things have changed. Not only Battlements adorn the walls of a fact not lost on the Phoenicians, While some say the Moors import- returning to Gib can you cross the border in under the old town and in the evocative who were the fi rst civilisation to ed them, it is just as likely that they fi ve minutes (having parked you Trafalgar cemetery you can fi nd build a fortifi ed base. arrived when the continents were car nearby in La Linea – for un- the graves of those who died in the Following the demise of the Ro- still joined. It was then that the At- EXCLUSIVE der fi ve euros for the day), but the famous battle. man empire, the Rock even- lantic rose to breach the isthmus squaddies, who are now outnum- Nearby, on Rosia Road, tually became a bridge- that linked them. NEW Miss World Kaiane Al- bered by the monkeys, have been is a monstrous 100- head for a Moorish as- Either way, the monkeys – who di- dorino, 23, has told the Olive replaced by new tourist enterpris- ton Victorian gun sault, when in 711 the vide into half a dozen troops - are a Press how she loves coming es and a spruced up image. marking the spot The main draw governor of Tangier thoroughly entertaining bunch. home to Gibraltar. This means fashionable, waterside where Nelson’s is of a hairy kind, it Tariq ibn Ziryab Swinging around, interacting with The hospital administrator, restaurants, a slick new marina at body was brought led his troops to the visitors, grabbing handbags, who won the title in Decem- Ocean Village, trendy hotels and ashore – his is here that you will vanquish the dis- snatching food, and generally be- ber, said: “I love coming back even Jazz evenings. corpse had been organised rabble of ing cheeky, you can spend hours to live a normal life again.” There are new cinemas, a new hos- preserved in a bar- fi nd the only wild Visigoths. watching them. The down-to-earth girl con- pital, a brand new casino, as well rel of brandy that apes in Europe The Arabs went on Such is their legend that it is said tinued: “It is totally unique, a as all the high street shops (M&S, was later drunk by to rule the area for that their departure will herald the really special place. BHS, Oasis, etc) you would expect sailors for good luck. seven centuries. The end of the English presence here “There is nothing like the in a lively British town. The naval hero had of- Rock was christened - a superstition that so worried Sir amazing views from the top, Largely due to a rapprochement ten visited the Rock while “Jbel Tariq”, Gibraltar be- Winston Churchill during WWII to Africa and into Spain. between Spain and the UK, there HMS Victory was repaired. ing an Anglicisation of it, rather that he imported a few dozen more “I also love the beaches, the is plenty of new development go- Strolling around, it is easy to ap- like ‘sherry’ and ‘Jerez’. to ensure their survival. lighthouse and the people ing on and even talk of sharing Gi- preciate how Gibraltar must have Nature lovers will enjoy the re- One nearly got the better of me, are so friendly.” braltar airport, a huge step consid- been on an almost permanent war- serve that protects the top half of when he crept up from behind and Aldorino beat favourite Miss ering that until recently no Span- footing after seizing it from the the rock. As well as boasting over tried to grab my bag, which was Puerto Rico after triumphing ish plane could land here. Spanish in 1704. A series of bitter 600 species of plants, it is one of luckily over my shoulder. in the swimsuit competition. Flights now go to Madrid and sieges ended in the construction of the best places to watch the mil- Heart pumping, I promptly began The bilingual beauty is about Barcelona and there is even a new shelters and further gun emplace- lions of birds that migrate between the hour or so stroll downhill into to set off on another trip to ferry taking regular trips to Algeci- ments inside the rock. Europe and Africa every year. town. Korea, having just got back ras. Excavations didn’t stop for over But the main draw is of a hairy The centre of Gibraltar is just as from Japan and Brunei. “Gibraltar is a completely re- interesting. Closely refl ecting the She is still amazed at the vamped product,” says Dustin melting pot (Gibraltarians are a 15,000 people who turned up Orfi la, of InvestGibraltar, a gov- curious mix of Italian, Jewish, to her victory parade. “There ernment body encouraging invest- Maltese, British, Portuguese and were more people than even ment. “A decade ago it was scruffy German), many buildings have National Day,” she said. and dirty, today it is cleaner and Portuguese tile façades, English Aldorino, whose boyfriend brighter and appealing much more wrought iron balconies and Geno- works on a cruise ship, was to upmarket tourism.” ese shutters. described by Chief Minister The changes are seeing an in- Full of remnants of the former col- Peter Caruana as a “very spe- crease of 1.5million tourists a year ony, one of the best places to take cial lady, who has put Gibral- and the enclave has hardly felt the afternoon tea is at the Elliot Hotel tar on the map!” world recession at all. “Only the in the centre, which has a terrifi c Denis MacShane MP, the construction side has suffered,” Jazz night once a week. former Europe Minister, de- continues Orfi la. As I headed off up the road to San scribed her win as “a victory Roque and its famous golf course for a Spanish-speaking Eu- So what is on offer in Gibraltar? the following day, I looked back at ropean woman who live on As well as beaches, splendid views the imposing landmark with com- the Mediterranean under the and a fascinating history. It bris- pletely different eyes. British fl ag,”. tles with the remnants of the Brit- Finally I could see what all the fuss He added: “I just hope she ish Empire, with countless bar- WEDDINGS: Gib isi popular with celebs was about. Our Rock is truly rock- doesn’t meet Tiger Woods.” rages and gun emplacements at with Connery anand Mills marrying there ing! 12 the olive press - February 24 - March 10, 2010 www.theolivepress.es Gibraltarwww.theolivepress.es special the olive press - February13 25 - March 10, 2010 13

WAS never very good at history. At school, it clashed with cookery, I which had more girls in it and gave me cakes to sell to the fat boys in the play- Brief encounter ground. So when I was asked to write An outsider’s about my impressions of Gi- view of Gib by braltar, following a two-day trip, I was a little surprised Dale Nottingham to say the least. “Don’t worry,” said the man with the money. “We want an outsider’s viewpoint, fresh and unpolluted by knowledge and understand- ing.” Well there was no arguing that one, so off I went; an ignoramus on a mission. As I took my place in the funereal procession of traf- fi c, inching excruciatingly towards the frontier, it oc- curred to me that despite the smattering of nega- tive comments I had heard about Gibraltar prior to my departure, it surely couldn’t be that bad since half the world seemed to be trying to get in. Having driven across the runway; a fi rst for me – well, sober at least – I entered “Gib” proper. “Welcome to the Rock,” as Sean Connery famously said about somewhere complete- ly different. Was this to be my Alcatraz? With derring-do not seen HOME COMFORTS: Gib brought back memories of Britain for writer Nottingham since the Italian Job, I point- ing me to the delightfully time – was all rather discon- Elbowing me in the side of ed my freshly re-sprayed appointed Elliot Hotel. This certing. the head – he is somewhat bling-mobile at a four-foot was indeed a small town. However, as I began to walk taller than me – he cries slit between two buildings Having grown up in rural the streets and talk to the “ere, that’s ‘er”, and darts – through which even light England, but not having people working in the in- off - in the best traditions of cannot travel without losing lived there for the past 14 numerable shops, cafes and Fleet Street – in hot pursuit a wing-mirror, but which years, the very Britishness offi ces that all seem so cosily of the beauty queen. passes for a boulevard in of Gibraltar – the red tele- crumpled together on this During the ensuing pleas- Gibraltar. phone boxes, the uniformed diminutive outcrop, I antries in which I was I closed my eyes, hit the gas police constables and that began to detect a careful not to men- and thought of the Queen uncanny knack the Brit- profound sense tion world peace, in a funny hat. About eight ish have of living in places of community an old woman seconds later, a man was where it seems to rain all the and collec- I sit back walks up to opening my door, welcom- tive identity me, fl ashes among the in the vastness of a toothless inhabitants Spain, reminiscing grin and of this often w h i s p e r s cursed but about my short conspira- always cov- torially into eted place. visit to the Rock my ear; “she’s And never was one of us, she this feeling of is.” fraternity more So here I sit back evident than in my brief in the vastness of Spain, chance encounter with reminiscing about my fl eet- none other than the newly- ing visit to the Rock, and re- crowned Miss World, Miss living the many great expe- Gibraltar herself, Kaiane riences I had in that quirky Aldorino. little place. I had been shuffl ing indi- And upon refl ection, it is gently down Main Street in that little old lady who, for the company of my sartori- me, epitomizes the indomi- ally suave publisher, when – table David versus Goliath gumshoe journo’ that he is, spirit, resilience and frater- – spots Miss World walking nity that is and will always towards us. be Gibraltar.

INTERESTING GIB FACT 1: The opening scene of James Bond fi lm The Liv- ing Daylights was fi lmed in an old WWII shelter under the Rock. A taxi driver’s tale claims it is a submarine base, as it is in the fi lm, but unfortunately it is less glamorous. GIB: Something to write home about 14 the olive press - February 24 - March 10, 2010 www.theolivepress.es The cream of the QROPS

Many expats move to Spain and cut most of their links take place. The list of qualifying schemes is avail- thought-out attitude to QROPS: “By taking a prudent to the UK, but are frequently tied to the UK tax sys- able on the HRMC website at http://www.hmrc. approach, clients can make use of the many benefi ts tem by keeping their pension there. gov.uk/pensionschemes/qrops.pdf that QROPS provide, without having to do something risky. Yet it is easy to rectify. Since 2006, UK rules have Because of the nature of the schemes. it is very allowed UK expatriates to transfer their pension important to be aware of what can and can’t be “As independent trustees and administrators, we of- scheme overseas under QROPS legislation. What’s done, as well as what may be pushing the boundar- fer advice to clients every step of the way without more, it could help to avoid a potential tax charge ies, so that there is no chance of future repercus- pressuring a sale. And because we are not invest- of up to 82%. sions. ment managers, we are not tied to any insurance company or insurance product, and can accept as- What is QROPS? Why would a scheme not be sets such as commercial property and investment portfolios without them having to be cashed in.” Simply put, a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pen- on the HMRC list? sion Scheme, or QROPS, is an overseas pension The overseas scheme must act like a UK scheme Spain does not currently have a QROPS, so Gibraltar scheme into which UK pension rights can be trans- for at least fi ve years or penalties may be imposed is the closest alternative and offers numerous ben- ferred. by HMRC on the transfer amount. There have been efi ts to UK expats living in Spain. It has the practical People with UK pensions who are, or will become, cases of jurisdictions in the past that have been benefi ts of being English-speaking and in the same non-resident in the UK for tax purposes can move removed from the list after breaking rules imposed time zone as Spain. And having the scheme held in their pension benefi ts out of the UK to a QROPS. under the QROPS regime. Gibraltar means it is easy to meet the trustees and For example, some jurisdictions have tried to pay administrators in person. QROPS advantages out the whole fund and been stopped by HMRC; some are still offering this option and HMRC are Taking out a QROPS in Gibraltar could be the fi nal A QROPS can offer signifi cant taxation and invest- looking at them in detail. It is HMRC’s view that step towards severing the ties to the UK tax system. ment advantages, allowing many UK pension holders a pension scheme should be for the benefi t of the to get more out of their pension. It provides: member in retirement and ‘trust-busting’ (taking “Having worked in both the UK and l greater control over where a pension fund is the whole of the pension scheme in one lump sum) Gibraltar, STM has helped me to invested goes against this ideal. consolidate all my pension pots into l tax effi ciency – it can substantially reduce the “Living in Spain, I wanted to transfer my one place. It’s helped save me time tax that would have to be paid when accessing a UK pension scheme. It was very important and money.” pension to me that I could see where my pension - T.S., Gibraltar scheme would be administered and meet l fl exibility – there is no need to buy an annuity with the trustees face to face. I like STM l inheritance benefi ts – the pension pot can be because I can see them within a couple of passed on to the benefi ciaries upon death and avoid hours to talk about my needs. a potential UK tax charge of up to 82% “My UK pension scheme included lots Find out more l simplicity – numerous pensions can be of different assets, not just cash. I also consolidated in one QROPS. had a portfolio which I didn’t want to For further information about QROPS, liquidate. STM transferred all my assets, please contact: The scheme must meet certain criteria set out by HM which went seamlessly because the Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and act as if it were a David Erhardt - Director investment company have a branch in UK scheme for QROPS members who have been resi- STM Fidecs Pension Trustees Ltd Gibraltar.” dent in the UK at any time in the previous fi ve tax STM Fidecs Life, Health & Pensions Ltd years. - L.R., Spain Tel: (+350) 200 45877 david.erhardt@stmfi decspensions.gi If you have emigrated from the UK or you are about to do so, and you have transferable pension assets in Your pension in safe hands Company licence numbers: STM Fidecs Pension Trustees Ltd – FSC00845B the UK, then you may be eligible to use a QROPS. The QROPS rules are changing rapidly, so schemes (licensed trustees) and have to stand the test of time and not just be a STM Fidecs Life, Health and Pensions Ltd – FSC00996B Where is QROPS available? ‘quick fi x’. (licence to carry on fi nancial services business). As long as a jurisdiction qualifi es and the receiving David Erhardt, Director of Gibraltar-based STM www.stmfi decs.gi scheme is recognised by HMRC then a transfer can Fidecs Pensions, explains the benefi ts of a well- www.theolivepress.es the olive press - February15 25 - MarchTOP 10, TIPS2010 15 Gibraltar special PASSPORT . Don’t for- get it. Gibraltar is British territory and passports are required by both British, Spanish and other nationalities to get Postage stamp size, Penny Black value through. You may not get asked but don’t take that chance. OR a state the size of As a fi nancial entity Gibraltar is one of the strongest in the POUND STERLING is a postage stamp Gi- world, punching well above its weight, writes Jon Clarke the Gibraltarian currency braltar punches way and, although euros are F above its weight in accepted, be prepared for the fi nancial stakes. “The scale of Gibraltar’s Orfi la, of the InvestGibraltar Why set up a business in Gib? a poor exchange rate and economic success makes Offi ce. While it only counts on a l It’s an international business hub in fi nancial your change in pounds. population of 29,000 peo- it one of the most affl uent “It is a buoyant jurisdic- It’s well worth getting communities in the world,” tion, and indicators point to services, e-commerce, shipping, property and ple, spread over 6,800 kilo- tourism some British money. Cash metres squared, it has a GDP insists Peter Caruana, the growth, despite the global l withdrawals are free with of over 900m euros a year, Chief Minister. downturn.” There is no VAT, there are few restrictions in a British bank account. more than double that of a The enclave is ranked the Much of this is due to an moving capital and there is low corporate tax decade ago. ninth most important country infl ux of bookmakers and l It has a highly regulated legal system with a stable TRAFFIC ON A FRI- Such is the strength of its in the world for fi nancial ser- gaming companies, such political and economic environment DAY , in particular, is economy, it is ranked as vices and tenth for banking. as Bet and Win and Party l very bad. From about “Gibraltar’s economy has There is a great range of corporate 2pm there is deadlock in the fi fth most stable in the Gaming, as well as stock accommodation, plus workspace for manufacturing world, by Jane’s country never been more prosperous, market traders. the city as commuters and risk rating. than it is today,” says Dustin “It isn’t surprising when l There is an international airport with scheduled visitors vie to leave and Gibraltar offers an English- fl ights to the UK and around Spain return home. The border INTERESTING GIB FACT 2: ING Direct fi lmed an advert in style lifestyle, but with the l No shortage of bilingual and skilled workers checks are quick but they Gibraltar because they believed the high street was the perks of living beside the l can only pass through so With warm summers and mild winters - 300 days many cars at a time. most authentically British they could fi nd. Med,” says Aaron Edwards of sunshine – there is a high quality of life of Marex, an international MOTORBIKES are trading fi rm. everywhere in Gibraltar “There are a lot of people look- they will pay is just 29,500 the local economy in 1984 and when driving one ing to come out here to work euros. It is a no brainer.” to seven per cent today. should take extra care to from the UK and we have to It is this sort of tax break Today, Gibraltar is a ser- check their wing mirrors vet them carefully.” that has helped employ- vice-based economy domi- for bikes coming on the The reasons behind this is ob- ment fi gures rise to around nated by fi nancial services outside. vious with the generous taxa- 21,000 people, with aver- and tourism accounts for 24 tion laws in place. age earnings reaching over per cent of the economy. PARKING can be very “In April, high earners will 25,000 euros in 2008. Many British and inter- diffi cult inside the port be paying a top rate of 50 “There is no capital gains national banks have op- and you may struggle per cent income tax in the tax here, nor wealth tax,” erations based in Gibraltar. to fi nd somewhere for UK,” says Ian Le Breton, of says Orfi la. “We won’t tax The Jyske Bank claims to free. Also, make a note of the Sovereign Group. “They you if you sneeze.” be the oldest after aquir- where you are parked be- could be losing up to 80 per The once heavy reliance on ing Banco Galliano, which cause Gibraltar can turn cent of their income in tax. the naval dockyards has started trading in Gibraltar into a real maze if you get “Here, the amount of tax shrunk from 60 per cent of in 1855. lost. 16 the olive press - February 24 - March 10, 201016 Gibraltar specialwww.theolivepress.es Journey through time

TAKING a stroll around Gibraltar’s narrow lanes is a classic journey back through time. From the ancient castle (left) - which sits on Arabic foundations and now serves as the prison - to the historic belltower (right), which has a highly original style, the enclave is alive with history. While it is staunchly patriotic with a distinct British fl avour (see alleyway left), it also feels very international. This is obvious from its grand, Italianate buildings (bottom right) and particularly in its stylish new marina, Ocean Village (below). www.theolivepress.es 17 the oliveWhy press - February Gib 25 - March 10,is 2010 17 a top place Journey through time to live?

Alona Mcilhoney, moved to TAKING a stroll around Gibraltar’s narrow lanes is a Gibraltar last week, 29 classic journey back through time. From the ancient castle “It’s a very relaxed and safe place and it feels like a real (left) - which sits on Arabic foundations and now serves community. People like as the prison - to the historic belltower (right), which has that kind of atmosphere. a highly original style, the enclave is alive with history. It’s also a great base for the While it is staunchly patriotic with a distinct British Costa del Sol and Andalucia fl avour (see alleyway left), it also feels very international. in general.” This is obvious from its grand, Italianate buildings (bottom right) and particularly in its stylish new marina, Ocean Village (below).

Jonos, barman, 25 “It’s defi nitely the monkeys that bring people here, but thethere’s a lot of naval his- tortory here with Lord Nelson and the Royal Navy. That’s a greatg draw.”

Paul Vallejo, café owner, 31 “We’ve got lots to see here such as rare wildlife and trees, and you can also pot- hole and look at historical monuments... but for some reason the tourist board concentrate mostly on the monkeys.”

MotiMot Virooman, shop owner,own 60 “As a tax-free port people comecom from all over for the cheaperche shopping. It is defi - nitelynit the most appealing thingthi about Gibraltar for vis- itors.ito Everyone wants to pay lessles and that is why there are queues into the port.”

Joseph Benrimoj, lifelong resident, 84 “It’s very safe and friendly and has the feel of an Eng- lish village. There are also excellent facilities for wa- tersports and, of course, in the summer the weather is fabulous.”

Andrew Hamson, day tripper from Newcastle, 20 “We’ve never been here be- fore and thought we’d try it out. You can see the Rock from miles around and we enjoyed taking the cable car and seeing the mon- keys we’d heard so much about.” 18 the olive press - February 24 - March 10, 2010 www.theolivepress.es Gibraltarwww.theolivepress.es special the olive press - February 25 - March 10, 2010 1919

HILE the rest of Eu- rope has seen a huge property crash over the Wlast few years, the Rock has remained solid. A combination of a shortage in Solid as a rock property and an infl ux in high- earners - in particular from the Gibraltar’s property market is In the past residents would look online gaming industry - has seen for cheaper properties along the the prices stand fi rm. bucking the trend, writes Sam Dale coast, but with the weakness of the “Despite seeing a small dip in sales pound they are now staying in Gib last year, things have bounced instead. back well this year,” says Justin Lifelong resident Joseph Benri- IN THE Bray, of Bray Properties. moj, 84, said: “It’s very diffi cult to KNOW: Bray “We have had a lot of sales en- fi nd a place here at the moment. quiries although it has been hard “Luckily, I have been able to fi nd unusually high, withwi th fi rstr st timetim to arrange viewings with the bad somewhere for my daughter, buyers still able to get mortgages weather.” who has disabilities, but it is at 90 per cent, the number According to the property special- tough.” able to qualify for loans ist, who is the sole agent for Taylor In order to help residents has decreased. Woodrow in Gibraltar, the best buy homes, the Gov- This has given a fur- buyers include Germans and Scan- ernment introduced a It has been ther boost to the dinavians, as well as the English. three-year residency rental market as “The Irish have been decreasing requirement, of very successful buying property in numbers and the Spanish have which there are over with 80 per cent has become more never really dipped their toes into 2000 homes. diffi cult. Gibraltar.” With no capital of property sold The recent open- Increasingly, he estimates, for- gains tax Gibraltar ing of the Ocean eigners are looking to Gibraltar as will always be a mag- on the fi rst day and Majestic Pla- a good investment. net for speculators and, zas in Ocean Village “But there are a few people who have CAPTION: when combined with demonstrated Gibral- come for a day trip and simply fallen zero corporation tax, many tar’s strength. in love with the place,” he says. new leisure centre, an astro-turf down, have a coffee and watch the businesses are keen to re-locate. It has been very successful Much of this has to do with the football pitch, superb telecommuni- world go by,” he says. “Not all buyers come here because with 80 per cent of property sold huge clean up Gibraltar has seen cations, a new international airport, But the infl ux of new money and they fall in love with the Rock. on the fi rst day and 98 per cent over the last decade. and casino just to name a few.” the weakening of the pound has Many come because the tax is so now sold. “The infl ux of new money with the The pedestrianisation of much of not however, pleased everyone. low,” continues Bray. A modern, stylish two bedroom gaming companies and businesses the centre, in particular in Case- With rising prices and the rental “So there is always a danger it fl at in Tradewinds in the heart relocating to the Rock has seen a mates Square, has also really market staying buoyant, it has could become a tax haven which of Ocean Village goes for around demand for decent facilities,” he helped to boost tourism. caused a crisis though for the local is why government schemes try to 616,000 euros, while a mid-range explains. “It has given visitors and locals Gibraltarians, many who cannot prevent that.” property in an older block nearby “This has meant more cinemas, a alike a great, open square to sit afford to buy any more. Although bank lending remains is going for 251,000 euros. 20 the olive press - February 24 - March 10, 201020 Gibraltar specialwww.theolivepress.es

www.babyzonegibraltar.com Over 30m Online store and showroom bringing euros-worth innovative, luxurious products to create a of high tech beautiful and loving safe nursery filled with yachts will fantasy and wonder for your baby be on display at the boat GIFT SERVICE AND GIFT REGISTER TO SET UP A show in LIST ONLINE FOR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES April, writes Sarah Drane

F you fancy being all-at- sea this summer, then the Gibraltar Interna- I tional Boat Show should be an early port of call. Taking place at the begin- ning of April, the Rock’s swanky Ocean Village will Nautical be transformed into a show- case of shiny white yachts and a lot, lot more. Best of all, entrance is free making it a great day out for BROWSE OUR NEW ONLINE STORE both the cash-rich and the cash-strapped. OR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT Now in its second year, the show has expanded into a but nice 17 ENGINEER LANE GIBRALTAR new area, known as the Ex- “While the spotlight un- made a strong commitment Tel: 20061565 Fax: 20045664 perience Zone, and will have doubtedly falls on the to the Show. Their Costa del a wide range of exhibitors yachts, we’re also mindful Sol dealership, headed up Website: www.babyzonegibraltar.com from the premium yacht that every visitor wants to by Dominic Byrne, will be Email: [email protected] brands down to marine participate,” explains or- exhibiting nine yachts rang- electronics. ganiser John Wood. ing from 34 to a sizeable 90 This means introducing a feet. climbing wall and rowing In total the Gibraltar Inter- machines, as well as a golf national Boat Show is set to showcase, tennis lessons have over 20 million euros- and kayaks. worth of ready-to-buy boats There will be seminars, – quite some display. fashion shows and live mu- Nautical or not, Ocean Vil- sic, while children can have lage, and indeed the rest of their faces painted and jump the Rock, is a more-than- on bouncy castles. worthy day trip destina- One of the main highlights tion. Here you will fi nd a will be played out at high great range of restaurants speeds across the nearby wa- from Pizza Express to KFC, ters where up to 16 Thunder- and from Celebrity Wine MODERN:MODERN: OceanOcean cat race boats will be compet- Bar to the All Stars Sports village, and boat ing at speeds of over 50mph. Café. show (top) They will be piloted by The marina is full of fashion the world’s best from Ire- stores and other retail out- land, Malta and, of course, lets and don’t forget to pop ners in the bingo. the British team who are into Gala Casino, which is Ocean Village is a ten min- in training for the World one of the only casino’s in ute walk from the border. Championships in South Europe to have bingo, slot Bring the car and follow Africa. machines, poker tables and signs for ‘marinas’ bear- On the business front, many roulette all under one roof. ing right at the fi rst round- of the world’s leading yacht There is a great restaurant about after the runway. manufacturers are on-board and this year alone there For further information on to tempt you with their lat- have been six attending or exhibiting visit est million-dollar babies. 10,000 euro Sunseeker has once again top prize win- Join the register GLORIOUS sunshine, a great base for the Mediterranean and spectacular views sailing round the Rock are a few reasons you GET LISTED: A Sunseeker might register your yacht in Gi- braltar. braltar pays no VAT when buy- You can also feel pretty secure ing a pleasure yacht so long as it as the Royal Navy pledges its full remains within the port. protection to all yachts regis- Even non-EU owners can apply tered in the port. for permission to sail in EU wa- If the full might of Britain’s ters for six months. armed forces doesn’t convince To do all this you’ve got to fi ll out you then maybe paying no VAT the forms with the Registry of will. Pleasure Yachts at www.compa- Any company registered in Gi- nieshouse.gi. www.theolivepress.es the olive press - February 25 - March 10, 2010 21

Nautical 2222 Gibraltarthe olive press - February 24 - March 10, special 2010 www.theolivepress.es A marriage made in the Med HE man who wrote romantic bal- lads She Loves You, I Want to Hold Your Hand and Woman for his wife TYoko Ono appropriately got mar- ried on the Rock. John Lennon and Japanese wife Yoko Ono both said “I do ” on the Rock in 1969, before famously spending a week in bed in Canada. The couple managed to tie the knot in se- cret. Since then there has been a steady stream of lovebirds taking advantage of the years of history, siege and intrigue, which has given Gibraltar its passionate spirit. Each year hundreds of couples fl y in from all over the world to get married or simply to renew their vows. But Gibraltar’s appeal as a romantic so- journ is not new. During the 1950s Hol- lywood stars Lawrence Harvey and Mar- garet Leighton were one of the fi rst high- profi le couples to marry on the rock. Many other celebrities, including Sean WED: John Connery (twice) and Sir John Mills, fol- and Yoko lowed in their footsteps. Jeanette Obytz But there are a few things that need sort- from Mediterra- ing out in advance, if you wish to get mar- nean Weddings. ried in Gib. The company is You will need, perhaps obviously, your an independent passport, as well as your birth certifi cate, wedding coor- a document of non impediment, proving dinating ser- you are free to marry. vice with years Due to its popularity it is also advisable of experience to apply early for a suitable date at the in Gibraltar Register Offi ce in Gibraltar. The experi- and southern enced consultants of International Mar- Spain. riage Services and wedding planners from They work closely with Commissioner Mediterranean Weddings can assist in the for Oaths Karl Grambow from Interna- process. tional Marriage Services, who knows the “We can do everything from dealing with legal system inside out to ensure a stress- all legal requirements through to fulfi lling free day. your vision of a dream wedding,” explains And one of the main things to know is that you don’t just have to get married at the Register Offi ce. You can now hold the service at the Alam- eda Botanical Gardens, with the Rock as a backdrop, as well as in the new marina, and even the Gala Casino. “You might also follow the legal or church ceremony with the wedding reception at new and exciting venues in nearby Spain. Fresh ideas and exhilarating venues are popular and available only 20 minutes from Gibraltar,” says Obytz. “We can offer a brilliant wedding in the biggest ballroom or in an ancient open air Roman amphitheatre combined with the most elegant gala dinner surrounded by lush gardens, with fountains and antique pieces of artwork.” She can also sort out a range of hacien- das and castles on Gibraltar’s doorstep, as well as hotels nearby in Tarifa. “There are so many reasons to get married HIPSTERS: Harvey and Leighton down here, but just make sure you get the got spliced in Gib in the 1950s best people to help you,” she concludes. Gibraltarwww.theolivepress.es special the olive press - February 25 - March 10, 2010 2323

WHERE TO STAY Jazz, beaches and history THE visitor to Gibraltar downtown location, just is spoilt for choice when By Dale Nottingham off Main Street, with some it comes to top-quality of the fi nest rooms on the accommodation. Of the enclave. Worth a special myriad options avail- of the Old Town, The mention is the live jazz able, however, three par- O’Callaghan Elliot Hotel, on Thursday nights in the ticularly stand out. with genial General Man- Veranda bar – not to be Set in a tranquil leafy ager Mary Kinch at the missed. Another chestnut square in the heart helm, combines a prime is the Caleta Hotel – Gi- braltar’s biggest – which is built on the rocks on the WHERE TO EAT eastern side of the Rock. With private access to a Gibraltar – multi-ethnic melting pot that it is – has ev- sandy beach that over- ery type of food imaginable, and much of it of a very high looks both the Spanish and quality. North African coastlines, A special mention must go to the outstanding Waterfront the Caleta Hotel is the per- Restaurant. Under the stewardship of Tim Turner, this fect holiday getaway. The not-so-little gem combines a great setting – down on the hotel’s Italian restaurant marina – with some of the best seafood on the Rock. is also reputed to be one of I can personally vouch for the succulence of the Vietnam- the best on the peninsula. ese sea-bass. Elsewhere, Cafe Rofo, in Irish Town, has gar- Last, but not least is the nered a host of glowing recommendations for the quality Rock Hotel. of its food and service, while the Boatyard Restaurant on Built by the Marquis of Queensway Quay regularly earns rave reviews for its food, Bute in 1932, it has long service and atmosphere. enjoyed legendary status And while taking a break from the endless Gibraltar shop- and is a sumptuous throw- ping spree you’re on, why not sample the delights of Cafe back to colonial days. It Solo in Casemates Square, with its friendly service and sits in nine acres of land- quintessentially Gibraltarian atmosphere. scaped gardens.

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01 Baby Zone 10 Med Weddings 02 Bray Properties Ltd 11 IMS Weddings 03 Cafe Solo 12 O’Callaghans/Elliot Hotel 04 Cannon Bar 13 Rolex 05 Carols Bookshop 14 Sacarellos 06 Casino 15 STM Fidecs 07 European Financial Planning Group 16 Sunseeker 08 Fiduciary group 17 Gache Opticians 09 Gibraltar Boat Show 18 Waterfront Rest 24 the olive press - February 24 - March 10, 2010 www.theolivepress.es