El Rodat, Javea

The hotel and spa complex itself does seem rather small (it is in fact a member of the prestigious Association of Small Luxury Hotels of the World), but I think this effect is caused by its rooms being spread out into small buildings surrounding the hotel’s main structure – it reminded me of an idyllic little village.

The range of treatments on offer is impressive. They have massages combined with hydrotherapy (prices from about 70€), moisturizing body wraps (again, about 70€ – and I’d recommend the firming anti-cellulite wrap), all sorts of body scrubs and facial treatments (prices start from 35€), and of course, manicures and pedicures (starting from 30€). For the man in your life they provide deep facial cleaning and moisturizing treatments (apparently their skin is different – who knew?). One set of treatments that caught my eye were for mothers-to-be, concentrating on back and leg relaxation – now that’s a good idea!

Of course, like any spa worth a bath robe they have an indoor swimming pool, heated whirlpool, sensory showers (hot and cold), sauna, steam room and relaxing area et el. Also available is yoga, Pilates, aqua Pilates and reflexology. The staff seemed professional and polite – and even with my basic Spanish I was understood.

Worthy of mention (although not actually a spa treatment per se) is the hotel’s restaurant. Run by top Valencian chef Ivan Gráu, I’m told by those who know that the quality of food is superb. They also offer some classes on local cooking techniques.

The complex has 42 hotel rooms, of varying prices, set in grounds that seem tranquil and serene. The views were good, and it’s close enough to the Arenal if you want some excitement. Speaking to a couple of guests I befriended I came away with the impression that they were happy their choice – one comment that made me smile was “the air conditioning units are lovely and quiet,” (It was January!). For our UK readers who might be interested, they offer a pick up service from the airport.

In conclusion, I can say I came away feeling refreshed and relaxed. I’m already booked in for my next visit!

Peg Mith

Thanks to all at the Wellness Room Spa at the El Rodat. They can be found at C/Murciana 9, off the Ctra. Cabo de la Nao, just through Javea. Tel: 966 470 710. Email: sparodat@elrodat.com www.elrodat.com

Our counsellor Margaret Lewis is qualified both in general counselling and terminal illness and bereavement counselling, Margaret also has the experience of being a qualified nurse. This service is free of charge and strictly confidential and is available every Tuesday morning at our Javea Park Centre by appointment. Other times and home visits are also readily available.

A wide range of literature is available at the Centre offering practical services, help and advice that can be of benefit before, during and after treatment for cancer, from private nursing care, mobile hair dressers, translators, chiropodists and much, much more. We also work closely with other cancer-related organisations specific to certain cancer types who offer much needed support and advice. In 2009 an important alliance was set up between Cancer Care O.E.S and A.E.C.C. (Javea branch) to exchange information and help.

Our Centre was opened in 2008 and has been a source of help and support for many people who felt the isolation and emotional distress that cancer can cause. Being in Spain can seem overwhelming when cancer strikes, so being able to walk in to our Centre can be a great relief when met by an understanding and empathetic team of workers. Our work is constantly being appreciated and many clubs and societies nominate us as their chosen charity.

Our Centre is open from Monday to Saturday 10.00am 12.30pm and our telephone number is 965 796 846.

CANCER CARE (charity No. 8270) also donates to various worthwhile cancer related causes including hospitals (for equipment) research and patient care.

CANCER CARE ADVICE AND INFORMATION CENTRE JAVEA PARK, 965 796 846
www.cancercarecharitycentre.org
admin@cancercarecharitycentre.org
President Irene Ellis M.B.E.
Vice President Sheila Bird

CANCER CHARITY CENTRE & BOUTIQUE
JAVEA PARK, 965 790 129

We now have two charity shops one being the Cancer Charity Centre and the second our Boutique. The Cancer Charity Centre (Charity No. 6705) predominantly funds Cancer Care. The shop was opened in 1998 and is open 10.00am –1.00pm Monday to Saturday, we always have a large selection of clothes and household goods. The Boutique is now a very popular place for ladies looking for something a little bit more special to wear. We are always grateful for donations or volunteers for either shop. For more information please call 965 790 129

President Christine Mawson

Vice President Jackie Evans

While Hispanic singers such as Shakira, Gloria Estefan and Jennifer Lopez have consistently topped the International charts, home grown talent is not hugely known outside of Spain. But there are some fantastic artists to check out.

Estopa, comprising of two brothers from Barcelona are all energy and original songwriting talent. They manage to combine a modern pop rock sound while still retaining a very distinctive Spanish sound. Staccato beats and a flavor of rock rumba and flamenco leave you wanting more……. José and David Muñoz have just released their 6th album called Estopa X Anniversarivm which celebrates their tenth anniversary.

One of the most successful home grown talents to find success on the international stage is Alejandro Sanz. He has won a total of 15 Latin Grammy Awards and 2 Grammy Awards plus the Latin Grammy for Album of the Year three times, more than any other artist. He has released a total of 11 albums and 6 DVDs. Not bad for the Madrid boy who used to sing on top of a bridge in his home city, imagining he was on stage. This bridge is currently named „The Bridge of the broken heart“ after one of his most famous songs.

When I first heard him, I was fascinated to hear him fit in about 20 words in a line where only 5 should fit………… (You don’t think it can be done? check out “y si fuera ella”). He is mesmerizing to listen to if only for this particular talent, and he sings with incredible passion and heartbreak and is a unique artist.

Maná ……. ok they are Mexican, but they have a huge following here in Spain and were my first introduction to Spanish music because they reminded me very much of an Irish band and I wondered, now when did they start singing in Spanish? I asked the name of the band and quickly amassed a collection of their CDs. Their sound has been described as drawing on pop rock, calypso, reggae and ska. Over the last 30 years, they have earned numerous awards and have sold more than 22 million albums.

These are just a few of my personal favourites but there are plenty more. There is a world of music out there, so if you want to find out what Spanish Pop music has to offer, just jump right in. You will certainly find plenty of emotion, passion and drama. Hey, it’s Spain, we would expect nothing less.
Linda McGillycuddy.

Here are some common terms you may hear:

Abogado: Solicitor. Amongst other things they will draw up a contract, provide help and guidance in legal matters and help complete the conveyancing.
Ayuntamiento: Town hall or municipality.
Bricolage: Do-it-yourself (sometimes called ‘hágalo-usted-mismo’).
Catastro: Land registry.
Césped: Lawn.
Certifado final de la dirección de la obra: In English – certificate of the completion of the building work. This is issued by the architect, and allows a declaration of a new building to be made at the notary’s office.
Community Charge: Becoming an owner of a property on an urbanisation will mean that you have to become a member of the community, which means fees are payable for the upkeep of shared amenities. You should be fully aware of all the charges before agreeing to anything.
Compra sobre plano: Purchase of a property before it has been built, based on blueprints (‘off plan’).
Contador: Meter for utilities.
Declaración de renta: Annual or quarterly tax declaration.
Dependencia: Outbuildings.
Deposito (de agua): Water storage tank.
Electrodomésticos: Appliances.
El empadronamiento certificate: This document shows those who are registered as living at a particular address. It is issued by the town hall.
Enchufado: Literally, plugged in (as in an appliance), but can also mean ‘having friends in high places’.
La escritura: This is the title deed of the property. The copia simple (not to be confused with the nota simple) is a simple copy of the escritura, less the signatures, which is usually sufficient to prove ownership. It is available on the day of signing at the notary and recognised as suitable for most legal purposes. It is normal for the purchaser to hold a copy of this document. The escritra de compraventa is the document signed in the notary’s office. The escritura publica is the escritra de compraventa complete with many official stamps from the Registry Office, converting it to a public document.
Establo: Stable (for animals).
Estatutos: Statutes, rules or bye-laws governing the internal running of a community development (or even a company).
Estructura: Structure (estructuralmente = structurally).
Extrarradio: Suburbs/surrounding areas.
Fachada: Faҫade.
Factura: Invoice/bill (don’t worry, you’ll soon learn this one).
Fiesta de inauguración: Housewarming party (don’t forget our invite!).
Gastos: Expenses.
El  gestor: These deal with the necessary paperwork between officialdom and citizens (which can be formidable). Their duties include helping with your application to become a resident, getting you and your family into the Spanish health system, payment of taxes, setting up a business and general advice on bureaucracy. If you are not fluent in Spanish, one that speaks English will reap dividends.
Hipoteca: Mortgage.
Honorarios: Fees paid to a lawyer, gestor, estate agent etc.
Humedad: Humidity/damp.
Impuesto: Tax.
Ley: Law
Licencia de primera ocupación: This is simply a licence to live in the property. It is issued by the local town hall (on production of the ‘certifado final de la dirección de la obra). This means you will be registered for taxes, but does allow you to get connected to electricity, water etc.
Llave: Key.
Luz: Literally, light, although often refers to electricity.
Metros cuadrados: Square metres.
Mudanza: Removals.
Mudar(se): To move house.
Muro: Wall, surrounding a property (or even a city).
Muebles: Furnishings (Amueblado means ‘furnished’).
La nota simple: This document is issued by the Land Registry Office and is a copy of the property registration details. It shows proof that the person selling the land or is the registered owner and there are no debts.
El notario: These are qualified lawyers who have taken addition exams to become notaries. They are appointed by the government and are considered in high standing by Spaniards. They are necessary to legalise many official documents, such as wills, power of attorney, passport applications and the title deeds of properties. They can be seen as representing the state, but they do not guarantee or verify statements or check the contractual terms. They can offer legal advice.
Número Identificaión de Extranjero (N.I.E): Identification number for foreigners (although the word ‘extranjero’ means foreigner, it doesn’t carry the same slight slur). It serves as a fiscal identity number, perhaps similar to the UK’s National Insurance number. Most important financial dealings will require it, and it is issued at the National Police station (comisaria). Be warned: there can be long queues. You may be asked for your NIF (Número de Identificación Fiscal). Don’t worry, it’s the same thing.
Número de póliza: Insurance policy number.
Para entrar: Ready to be lived in, or moved into.
Pared: Internal wall (pared de carga = supporting wall).
Mapa de la casa: A three-dimensional line drawing, or an architect’s plan, which shows the dimensions of each room and floor in square metres.
Contrato de venta: This details that the plan of the house and its location are in order. It shows that the nota simple has been examine and is correct. It must be read and fully understood as it allows the issuing of a non-refundable deposit and signifies that the purchaser has the necessary funds to complete the deal.
Potencia: Electricity supply rating, measured in watts.
Pozo: Well (pozo negro = cesspit).
Prima: Insurance premium (also means female cousin).
Registro de la propiedad: This is usually the last document in the buying procedure. It is basically the escritura publica which has been stamped by the Registry Office with the words ‘registro de la propiedad’. You may now start enjoying you new home.
Seguro(s): Insurance.

The question of Wills is addressed by commentators and writers with alarming regularity and this is not without good reason. In this article I have sought to re-visit the topic and provide a brief yet hopefully informative and structured explanation of why a Will (whether English or Spanish) is so important.

Put simply I always advise clients that fundamentally it allows you to determine – with certainty – who the beneficiary or beneficiaries of your estate will be. In its absence you will have died intestate and a complex set of rules will then come into play which may mean that ultimate beneficiaries are not those originally intended.
That said, this explanation only addresses what I would consider to be the fundamental reason why a Will should be executed and in effect serves only to “scrape the surface”. This is because in reality it is far more than simply specifying who should inherit your estate, addressing the following points in addition:

1. It overcomes the aforementioned Intestacy rules which can be draconian and harsh in some instances;
2. It can help to mitigate Inheritance Tax and form part of overall Inheritance Tax planning;
3. It provides the framework within which the transfer of your assets to your designated beneficiaries can take place as smoothly and cost effectively as possible.

In considering this further it is important to address each point in turn.

1. Intestacy
Where an individual dies without a valid Will in place they are deemed to have died “Intestate”. Rules differ from nation to nation as to how an estate is distributed in these circumstances and under English Law these rules are embodied within The Adminsitration of Estates Act, 1925 and subsequent amendments thereto.

These rules would apply to our English readers who had died intestate because Spanish Law bases the right to inherit on the nationality of the deceased. However, it is worth mentioning that theoretically a conflict of laws exists with regard to successions between Spain and the UK. This is because English Law states that the right to inherit is based on where the property is located, which differs from Spain which as aforementioned bases the right to inherit on the nationality of the deceased.

In practice I have never known this to become a problem but the danger exists that aggrieved “beneficiaries” or un-named “heirs apparent” could seek to use this argument to force adoption of Spanish forced heirship rules. This argument is beyond the scope of this article but the crux of the first point is the fact that where no Will exists and these Intestacy rules are followed the outcome can create real problems. Effectively these rules provide for the estate to be distributed according to whether an individual was married, had children, has surviving parents, brothers, sisters etc. and readers can find informative “Intestacy Trees” through most good search engines. Much depends upon the value of an estate and whether you are married or have children or not is also important.
As such, for this reason alone a Will is imperative.

2. Inheritance Tax planning

The scope of this topic is again beyond the boundaries of this article but readers will be aware that Inheritance Tax is a real concern to many. By drafting your Will in the context of potential tax liabilities an individual can understand more fully the frame work in which their assets will be distributed and what liability – if any – will arise. In this way they can plan accordingly and not leave matters to chance.

3. Costs

Based upon referrals and recommendations received it seems apparent from professional experience that legal fees charged for the administration of an estate in Spain are reasonable to say the least. That said, stories abound of fees stretching to fives or even tens of thousands of euros and the reality is that in complex estates with multiple assets and beneficiaries this could well be the case. Moreover, any costs incurred will only be exacerbated where the deceased has died Intestate.

These additional costs will stretch beyond the legal fees incurred and may encompass fees for legalization of documents, professional search fees to locate beneficiaries, Notary costs overseas and this is not to mention any tax liability that might arise that could have been mitigated by drafting a simple Will.

By contrast the administration of an estate where an individual has died with a valid Will in place is normally a relatively straightforward process and costs and disbursements are relatively low. Indeed, when set alongside the costs of executing a straightforward Will in which you can clearly name the beneficiaries of your estate it makes not to place your affairs in order.

For a no-obligation discussion or further information in respect of Wills, Probate, Inheirtance Tax or any other legal or fiscal matter please feel free to contact me on +34 966 472 660 / +34 699 838 795 or alternatively at spanishpropertylawyer@gmail.com or info@legalandfiscal.com.

© Glyn Moran LL.B. (Hons) – Costa Blanca Legal & Fiscal. All rights reserved. 2011.

As the story of Kenan’s life unfolds, it is far from depressing. Gina’s tribute to her son is written with such honesty about the low and high moments of their family life that it is a fascinating read. Gina describes herself as a stubborn East Ender and proved the truth of this in the way she overcame every setback with optimism.

Contributions from Kenan’s father, as he recalls special moments he shared with his son, made me realise that this is a book which has appeal for anyone with a heart.

Kenan was a loving boy and it is easy to understand why Gina’s parents, in-laws, old and new friends all rallied to help when she needed them; I only hope they have forgiven her for the very frank way she has written about them and their private lives! The star throughout is Kenan. He faced his fate bravely and enjoyed life whenever possible, perhaps an example we should all try to follow.

Oi Oi Saveloy is available through Amazon and major book stores.  Or you can contact us at Home magazine and we’ll put you in touch with a local supplier.

One thing we get contacted regularly about here at Home Magazine is the often poor level of service provided by telecoms companies in Spain. With that in mind we decided to ask a company we know we can we rely on to give us the low down on their company ethos. Bay Connect, based in Javea, sent us this report …

There is an undoubted need here in Spain for an efficient telephone service supplying low cost high quality calls and fast internet, delivered in a language that we can understand. Recently there have been many companies attempting to join this market, but there is one English company which continues to stand out above the rest.

Bay-Connect is a telecoms company with its offices on the Costa Blanca. They have become the fastest growing business in the market by offering a product of remarkably high quality at rock bottom prices and linking it to quite outstanding customer service.

We asked head of customer support Lisa Monrabel, why she felt Bay-Connect was enjoying such success.

“It is a simple formula really, from the outset we set out to provide the best service possible at the lowest possible prices and we have achieved just that. We supply our customers with fast internet, free calls in Spain, a package that allows them to call the UK from 1 cent a minute and free UK television. We deliver a totally free and more importantly legal way for our customers to watch all the channels they enjoyed in the UK. BBC 1, BBC 2, ITV 1, ITV 2 and more. We take great pride in providing the best products and giving the very best customer service and technical support in the marketplace. And not to mention giving people total freedom from Telefonica! We have grown so quickly that we are once again looking to add to our staff and have positions available for agents in all regions of Spain, so if anybody is interested in joining us they can call us on 902906018. We would love to hear from them”.

There can be little doubt that Bay-Connect have made a big impression. Operating at the cutting edge of modern technology they still manage to offer old fashioned levels of service where the customer is King and profit takes a back-seat to the customers needs.

You can reach Bay-Connect by calling 902 882 396 or visit www.bay-connect.com and quote 007.

Are You Ready to Get Active in 2011?

We are now at the beginning of a New Year, and many of us will have made New Year Resolutions about improved health and fitness.  One of the most common reasons people give for not doing exercise is that they don’t have enough time.   Well, if you don’t have the time to protect yourself against 24 different health conditions, then perhaps you deserve what you get!

Exercise is as important as eating, sleeping and breathing – and we always seem to find time for those things.  Exercise should equally be a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.   So no more excuses.  Lace up your trainers and get motivated and active!

The Benefits of Exercise

Exercise is not just about losing weight – it offers so much more protection that goes well beyond weight control.   Exercise is without a doubt one of the most powerful ways to improve your overall health.  Researchers have found that exercise reduces the risk of about 24 different health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, type II diabetes, strokes, dementia and depression.  Exercise also slows down the rate of aging!  It is a real fountain of youth! Fitness is now believed to be one of the best indicators of health and longevity

Here are some more benefits:
•    Normalizes insulin and leptin levels
•    Improves brainpower
•    Lowers blood pressure
•    Relieves pain
•    Improves circulation of immune cells
•    Helps to cure insomnia
•    Fights depression
•    Increases energy
•    Builds strong bones, muscles and joints
•    Reduces risk of premature death
•    Reduces risk of colon cancer
•    Promotes psychological wellbeing
•    Reduces incidence of back pain
•    Reduces risk of osteoporosis

Variety is the Spice of Life

This is such a well known saying – and it is also true of exercise.  Many people that I meet have got themselves fixed into doing only one type of exercise – over and over again! We need to remember that our bodies have an amazing capacity to adapt to the stresses that we subject them to, and exercise is a form of stress.  Your body needs lots of variety – including strength training, cardiovascular training, core strength training and flexibility – and if you introduce this you will achieve much better results.

It Starts With Clear Goals!

Start by setting yourself clear goals and change them every month.  If you are running, go for the mile and in the next month, increase your goal to 2 miles.  If you are strength training, set a target for weights or repetitions, and then change them.  Change your goal every month.  This will keep your body fresh and will stop it reaching a plateau.

Training and keeping fit is not easy, but it is very rewarding and once you get past the initial stage your body will then start to crave it.

So make 2011 your year and a year to make it happen – no excuses! Everybody can find 30 minutes in a day and to start with, that is all you need.

Good luck and have a great fit and healthy 2011.

Lee

(Feature Sponsored by FamouslyFit.com and Profigura Gym, Javea)

Coming Soon
Why Your Workouts Don’t Work!

From the seriously weird to the seriously fun – there’s something out there for everyone!

Adrian Bridgwater & Lauren McGregor

Nobody likes getting out of bed – so why not do it with a bang and a whizz… and start your day off with some fun? This new infuriatingly effective Flying Alarm Clock is available from popular gadget websites such as Amazon and Firebox and it’s sure to leave its mark on you!

STAR TREK RED ALERT
So what makes the Flying Alarm Clock so get-out-of-beddingly effective, then? Well, as its name suggests this digital clock actually flies. No, really. A propeller-driven module spins off the base unit every time the shrill alarm (think of the Star Trek red alert siren) goes off.

The catch is, the noisy alarm won’t turn off until you retrieve the propeller and replace it on the base. Which means you have to get out of bed and search for it. How ingeniously irritating is that?

So here’s the real problem, you’ll actually have to be alert when you wake up so that you can find and retrieve the ‘copter top’ – this means no more stumbling across the room in zombified-autopilot mode like you do when you try the old put-the-alarm-clock-over-there-under-a-cushion ploy, because the pesky propeller can land anywhere. Aargh!

THE MAGIC WAND REMOTE CONTROL
If you are a bit of a Harry Potter fan and fancy yourself as the next Wizard in your neighbourhood then you’ll love this new Magic Wand Remote Control. How it works is really utterly astounding; this gizmo looks like the kind of thing you might find in the hands of Gandalf the wizard from the Lord of the Rings. The difference is you use it to control your television, digibox/program-selector, stereo or any other infra-red device via various Wizard-ish gestures. Simply swish, whirl and flick to change channels, adjust volume and much more.

“This gizmo looks like the kind of thing you might find in a Harry Potter film or perhaps even in the hands of Gandalf the wizard from the Lord of the Rings movies.”

WARD OFF RIVAL WIZARDS
Totally button-free, the Wand can ‘learn’ up to 13 infrared codes from your existing remote(s) and fling them into the ether when you perform one of 13 predefined gestures. It’s a kind of magic. You can assign various functions to various moves: flicks to turn on and off; spins to control volume; big swishes to mute and so on.
You’ll be flicking just for the fun of it. Better still, rival ‘wizards’ will be unable to mess with the television or other unit unless you show them your moves.
To add to its supernatural nature, the Wand also features a ‘heartbeat’ in the form of various pulses that confirm gesture recognition and tell you when the batteries are low. It even goes into sleep mode after 60 seconds of inactivity and ‘wakes’ when you pick it up.

USB MICROSCOPE
Have you ever wondered what a cookie crumb looks like up close? Or if you’re a really creepy kind of person, how about a toenail clipping? If you have then you need the amazing USB Microscope.

This funky looking USB-powered instrument lets you zoom in (from 20x to 200x) on any object you feel that you have an unnaturally unhealthy interest in.

Thanks to its accompanying software you can record your findings as photos and videos on your PC – that way you can bring all your friends round to witness what kind of weird stuff you’ve been cross examining!
You can hold it like a pen or pop it on its little desktop stand. It even boasts an internal white LED to illuminate objects to the max. You’ll never be bored at your desk again – we guarantee it!

If by any chance you do get tired of examining cookie crumbs, mouldy lumps of cheese, egg stains and flakes of dandruff, you can always don a white coat and grab a few bugs and insects and try and really learn something useful!

PEBBLE POWER
There’s really no excuse for running out of power on your favourite mobile device these days – we all like to stay online, connected and generally powered up pretty much all of the time right now. But power sockets don’t grow on trees do they? So thankfully the Pebble Portable Charger is on hand for us.

This emergency juicer-upper is a serious bit of kit for anyone who owns an iPhone/iPod, Flip, Muvi Atom or any other USB-friendly gizmo. So that means most of us these days right!?

Despite its tiny dimensions, the rubbery-feel Pebble houses a meaty 5000mA battery. So now a little maths: the iPhone 3G’s battery is 1200mA, which means the Pebble holds sufficient juice to charge it four times over!
USB powered, this travelling companion even features a handy charge indicator so you can see how much power you have left. You just might find that you can’t work out how you ever lived without one!

MP3 OVERBORARD!
So we all love our MP3 players don’t we? In fact, we all love our digital cameras and various other smartphone type devices don’t we? But the problem with MP3 players and digital cameras is that they hate water. Well we assume they do because they have a habit of short-circuiting the second they hit the old wet stuff.

Now this is a real pain for those of us that like to get out and about where there is a chance of coming into contact with some water from the skies or even the seas (or a swimming pool or the bath even!) – so that’s why we’ve been on the lookout for a way to keep your cameras, MP3 players and various other fun gadgets dry.

Step forward Overboard Waterproof Cases. These impact resistant, heavy duty PVC cases will keep your gadgets 100% dry. Thanks to transparent front and rear windows they allow full access to all the relevant controls when sealed. This means you can take pics in the pool, snaps on the slopes and listen to your music in countless watery scenarios. Go for the MP3 Case and you can listen and splosh simultaneously via the included fully waterproof headphones. Yes, really!

MAKING MUVI MOVIES WITH A MICRO CAMCORDER
Remember when camcorders were bigger than wheelbarrows and heavier than anvils? Well thankfully that day is long gone – and now we have the Muvi Micro Camcorder to really take things to another level.

Impossibly small, this ludicrously small movie cam is set to redefine the genre. One button does the lot. Moreover, at only 2” x 0¾” x 0¾”, it’s the smallest camcorder in the world. You can even wear it around your neck and use it as a webcam. Try doing that with your old tape-munching camcorder. Actually, don’t. You’ll hurt yourself and break your computer. Muvi records in VGA quality (640×480) equivalent to the best selling Mino and Ultra by Flip.

Videos are stored on the included 2GB Micro SD card, but for those of you who prefer real epics the Muvi can handle cards up to 8GB.

Wannabe movie moguls with a penchant for boxing gloves can rest easy because the Muvi has a special VOX mode that lets you start/stop recording using your voice (or any other noise over 65 decibels). “Annnnd….action!” It’s ideal for those moments when your hands aren’t to…erm, hand, or you feel like going on a Christian Bale style rant.
Speaking of action, this sleek miracle of miniaturisation is encased in a tough metal shell. Finally, the boffins behind the Muvi have created an Extreme Sports Pack. This smart collection of brackets, clips and straps allows all you to attach the camera to almost anything. Even your bike helmet.

THE TABLET WARS
One gadget on many of our sales wish lists this year has got to be a tablet device. Apple’s iPad stormed the shops earlier in the year and got us salivating for more. Although the iPad is a beauty, there are some features missed off its tech spec that we are hoping to see from other devices. Things like a front/back facing camera, Flash support, expandable memory and HDMI port USB support; well as if our desires were heard by the chaps over at Android, we bring you the WiFi and 3G enabled Apad A8. The Apad A8 brings you all of the features missed off the iPad and more…all without breaking the bank, coming in at under $300.

This device will fit into your working life seamlessly with 512MB onboard memory with the option to expand up to 16G expandable via the Micro SD reader slot. It also boasts integration of the Microsoft Office applications we love and use, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, as well as a pretty neat PDF reader. It is not all work and no play for this device though, all our multimedia dreams work a treat on its huge 10.2 inch multi-touch screen running on a swift 1GHz processor. Whether it is films or gaming, the Apad’s accelerometer, duel speakers, HD video playback and 3D graphics acceleration make the experience a delight.

The Apad A8 also hosts lots of intergrated application such as MSN, Skype and GTalk so we can make all our friends jealous of our fab new tablet.

T-SHIRT

Not all of these geeky gadgets are for boys you know? Despite appearances – many of these devices go down very well with the fairer sex.

One product that is definitely not for the boys though is this stylish fitted T-shirt  that features an electro-luminescent heart-shaped motif that flashes and pulsates in time with the music it ‘hears’.

How? A tiny battery pack is hidden in a pocket just inside the hem. This powers the gleaming, noise-sensitive LEDs within the heart. Rendering every other ‘look at me’ T-shirt utterly obsolete, the TQ Style Tee is the ultimate in club-wear. Simply flick the hidden ‘on’ switch & prepare to be gaped at.

PRICES & AVAILABILITY
As previously stated, all of these products are available online from sites such as eBay, Amazon and Firebox.com — prices (and offers) change daily, so simply Google some of the product names you’ve seen here to get the best deals.

Why go skiing?
One word: Excitement. There really is no other feeling that matches the sensations that overwhelm you when racing down a slope. The gathering speed, the cold mountain air in your face, the closeness to nature, the sense of achievement, the physical effort – I could go on, but I think you get the idea.

What equipment do I need?

Here is my list of what I take skiing:

• Skis
• Ski boots (if it’s your first time, rent boots and skis. No point spending a fortune until you know this is the sport for you)
• Ski bag (optional)
• Ski boot bag (optional)
• Duffle bag
• Goggles (ones that fit over glasses are available)
• Helmet
• Ski carrier (optional)
• Ski poles
• Ski lock
• Sunglasses
• Walkie-talkies (optional)

Clothing;

• Gloves or mittens (two pairs, in case one gets wet)
• Base layers (top and bottoms)
• Roll neck top
• Sweater and fleece
• Ski socks (plus spare pairs)
• Ski pants (insulated and waterproof)
• Ski jacket (insulated and waterproof)
• Hat, headband and helmet liner
• Neck gaiter

Tip: It’s an old adage, but dress in plenty of layers. Easier to take one off if you get too warm than it is to put one on if you get cold.

Accessories;

• Hand/foot warmers
• Lip balm
• Sun cream/wind block

“Gotta use your brain. It’s the most important part of your equipment.”
– Kevin Andrews & Warren Miller, Extreme Skiing.

Find a ski resort with a beginner’s terrain
Most ski resorts offer trails for beginners, but it might be worthwhile looking out for one that has plenty. There’s no point paying for an expert’s resort for your first time. Also, if your languages aren’t great, make sure they have English speaking instructors.

Rent skis and boots
Your skiing experience will be better if you rent skis and boots instead of borrowing a friend’s old pair of dated skis or boots. Even if you have a pair of old skis or boots, learning to ski on a modern pair of skis is not only safer than skiing on old skis, but, it will help you progress faster.

Raid your wardrobe for your first ski trip
There’s no need for expensive, fancy ski clothes your first time skiing. As long as you have a turtleneck, a sweater or a fleece jacket, and some kind of insulating pants (no denim, though) to wear under a winter jacket and waterproof snow pants, you should be warm enough. A pair of winter gloves is a good idea, too. When you know you like skiing, you can upgrade your wardrobe.

Take lessons
Even if your friends ski and want to teach you, investing in a ski lesson is necessary. You’ll get started off with a good basis of ski knowledge, and with continued lessons, you’ll be a great skier before you know it. Make sure to specify that you are a beginner skier with no (or little) experience on the slopes.

Food & Drink
Because you will be so excited about learning to ski, you may forget to drink all the water your body needs (honest!). Also, you will be using your body in new and unusual ways, so it may become tired and will need more fuel. Plan your meals, have snacks and a water bottle handy, and watch the alcohol intake.

Safety
Ski with caution and work hard to stay in control. During your lesson, make it a point to listen to your instructor, because later, you can practice what you’ve learned on your own time. However, don’t push yourself too hard – on your first day, it’s best to stick to terrain that you know you can handle. Be aware of what’s happening around you. Keep your eyes open.

The Ski Season
The traditional season runs from the end of November through until Easter (late April this year). Usually, the earlier you go the better the snow, but colder the weather. Later generally means more sun. Obviously, conditions vary greatly.

When is the cheapest time to go?
Skiing during the New Year tends to be the most expensive, as well as during any school holidays. If you can be flexible, avoid the last two weeks in February as that is when half-term holidays fall and resorts become extra busy. Therefore, all things considered, January is a perfect time to go skiing. It is comparatively cheap and quiet, with many people still recovering from overspending during Christmas. Later on in the season is probably the cheapest time to go skiing, but you always risk poor skiing conditions at this time. If you choose to go late in the season, it is recommended that you select a resort that is located at a high altitude – anything above 1500m is advised.

Après-ski
Had to briefly mention this. Après-ski is essentially the art of having a few drinks after a hard day on the slopes. The only advice I can think of that might be useful for beginners is that you don’t have to dress up. Think more warm jacket and boots rather than mini skirt and high heels. Trust me; you’ll thank me at the end of the night.

Some final thoughts …
Make sure your clothing will keep you warm and dry. Without that things can get a bit miserable.
Stick with it. I promise you it will become an important part of your life.
Final thought: Skiing is a dance, and the mountain always leads.