Without borders

One of the best ways of saving the planet?

2009-09-07T19:30:00.008+02:00

If maybe this (or this) E-book initiative can make it more affordable to buy the electronic versions of printed words, a lot of trees will be left to absorb Co2 instead of attracting power hungry forestry machines.
Why oh why do the electronic editions cost more or less as much as the printed versions?
In my book (!) the cost of production and e-distribution is a small fraction of the printed and diesel-distributed versions and this must soon be reflected in the cost to the end user.

If e-distribution of "the printed word" is done right I might consider subscribing to publications once again.

BTW, toby@costaiberica.com and isabel@costaiberica no longer exist.
We now are toby.linde@gmail.com and isabel.h.linde@gmail.com - google rules, for now.

Langostinos cocidos

2009-04-25T16:58:00.005+02:00

Langostinos cocidos is a Murcian classic starter. Normally lightly salted, more so when the restaurateur wants to sell more beer.

Always good, nothing but fresh seafood and salted cooking water. Very Murcian.
We were trying to get Murcian support for our cookbook but it proved futile so this is it for a while. And hey, we are still looking for a publisher and-or sponsors... What a great gift or souvenir from sunny Murcia to a gastronomy aficionado back home, or just plain good fun to explore the Murcian gastronomy for yourself!

My herbs coming back to life

2009-04-21T12:32:00.004+02:00

All farmers were affected by the recent hailstorm. So was I, but my dill and coriander are now proving their recilience.

Life's good

2009-04-21T09:35:00.004+02:00

I think cats have realised how life should be lived and maybe I'll copy this lifestyle. When a flying bird was startled by this sight it managed to collide lightly with a pillar. The cats observed this and as one went to see if the bird had crashed.
It had not.

The My Murcian Kitchen, teaser on line

2009-04-08T15:52:00.006+02:00

You can view the PDF at The Murcian Kitchen and Gastronomy eBook link.

It is just a small early taste of food and drink from Murcia but this is probably the general format of the finished product.

Hailstorm part II

2009-04-08T11:51:00.003+02:00

Lo and behold, one of my hail pics is published in La Verdad, both on the web and in print. Here Paquita, proprietor of our local bar is demonstrating this very unusual Costa Calida phenomenon.

Spring?

2009-04-07T18:52:00.002+02:00

A couple of hours ago we had winter visiting. I surely have not seen anything like this before. A perfect hailstorm on the 7 April. Several minor accidents on the mtorway and cars stopping under the overpasses to protect their cars.

Casa de la Marquesa for rent!

2009-04-06T19:51:00.006+02:00

Making the plans for summer already? Rent Casa de la Marquesa's house in rural Spain, to a modern and comfy standard, close to everything. We have that summery feeling already, here in the warm coast, Costa Calida, in Spain. If you long for the rural, unspoilt real Spain, be guests at Casa de la Marquesa.

Lovely townhouse for rent in the pretty village of Los Camachos, just 8 kms from
Cartagena. It is situated amongst thyme clad hills, pretty gardens and fig trees, yet close to everything you need.

This 3-bed, 2-bath house has got a lovely open fully fitted kitchen combined lounge and dining room. Large fireplace. Pretty patio with pool and pergola. Roof terrace with views of Europe’s largest lagoon, the Mar Menor. Air conditioning and heating. Solar panels. Washing machine and dryer.

Only moments from all the lovely sandy beaches, golf courses, restaurants, bars, shopping by car. Tastefully furnished and decorated. Sleeps up to 7. Short-term or long-term lets
available. Call for availability and more info. (0034)662 248 723

Wild flowers

2009-04-06T10:39:00.002+02:00

On my daily walk up the thyme clad hill, keeping a close eye on how the wild asparagus are doing, I couldn't help picking some wild flowers. Walking up the hill is not as easypeasy as it may look. When I reached the top, I was happy to have brought som sticky fried garlicky tomato and tuna pasties, empanaditas and a cold beer. Pure bliss. Overlooking the both seas on this clear day I was not only enjoying the views over the shores of the lagoon Mar Menor but also able to see a glimpse of the Med.

On my way down (way less exhausting) I picked some thyme and remembered to add to my marinade with pieces of chicken fillets ready for the BBQ. What a summery feeling, a bunch of wild flowers, the BBQ and baby stems of wild asparagus and a jug of tinto de verano, summer wine!

My Murcian Kitchen, the cookbook take two

2009-04-01T20:10:00.003+02:00

Having received zero Murcian support for the printed Murcian Kitchen cookbook we are now preparing the launch of the eBook.

"Welcome to my Murcian kitchen and the flavours and gastronomy of Costa Cálida in southeast Spain!
In this cookbook you will find classic cuisine from this region. You will also learn about our excellent local wines with D.O (Denominación de Orígen) from Jumilla, Bullas and Yecla.
Why this cookbook? Over the years I have explored the local delicacies in abundance. I have browsed through traditional cookbooks derived from various local housewife's associations and other publications from keen amateur cooks.
Fair enough, I am sure their compilations have surely made a statement. But I felt this region is not yet so known for its excellent food and wine. It needs to be highlighted with a modern twist, full of inspirational photographs.
My Murcian cookbook could also be the ideal holiday souvenir, making the reader and traveller able to create a plate of sunny, healthy Murcia back home on a rainy afternoon in November. So here it is: in e-book form – My Murcian Kitchen. Enjoy!

Isabel Herraiz Linde in April 2009
Author and restaurant critic, Cartagena, Murcia, Spain."

Still spring

2009-03-31T11:31:00.004+02:00

Mimosa blossoms around the corner.

I love the smells of spring. The cottony small buds of mimosa flowers on the trees here now, certainly make you fell humble and thankworthy. I can remember as a child in Scandinavia my mother used to arrange tulips, roses and other flowers with mimosa stems filled with flowers. The scent would fill the room and promise that the harsh, grey and gloomy winter days would come to an end. It is comforting. Maybe it is time for a Mimosa Drink? Anyone got a recipe out there perhaps? I am all ears to all the varieties.

Spring has sprung

2009-03-09T10:58:00.003+01:00

In Spanish news every year

2009-01-18T10:32:00.002+01:00

This year it we can see snow from home. Not common. Here is the observatory on Sierra Espuna, 1586 m.

A Taste of Murcia - the Murcian kitchen cookbook project

2008-12-31T14:37:00.006+01:00

Not so secret anymore.

Get your grapes

2008-12-28T17:50:00.004+01:00

The Spanish tradition of eating grapes on New Year's Eve, Noche Vieja, is celebrating its first century. For each of the twelve times the bell rings on the 31 December every Spaniard eats a grape. So go get your grapes for New Year's Eve before stocks run out and celebrate your Eve like the Spanish do.

Mind you last year I did not get hold of any grapes but I compensated the loss with some more bubbly instead, thinking of course, it is also grapes but in another slightly more pleasant form.

Start smoking

2008-12-13T15:54:00.002+01:00

I just premiered my Snowbee smoker cooker on a lubina, sea bass delivered to my kitchen by a couple of proud fishermen. Now, I have been served a a very dry barbequed Lubina a couple of years back and that experience has stuck.
This little guy though was a fantastic gastronomic reason to totally reevaluate lubina. I added some fresh rosemary sprigs to the jakaranda wood chippings and this might have been the clue to the excellent smoky flavour.
Then, some buttery and nutmeggy baby leaves of spinach completed this festive meal.

Pasta with saffron and mussels

2008-12-08T15:40:00.007+01:00

I just got very good feedback from a Basque chef in Sweden on my recently published magazine article on saffron recipes.
Now I want to share one of my favourite recipes from this article. Slowly cook the mussels until they open their shells. Set aside. In a knob of butter, fry some shallots and parsley together with the dry white wine. Add some red peppers, garlic and seeded and skinless tomatoes. Reduce. Do not skip the white wine. Add the double cream and saffron strands. Let it all bubble for a while. Cook the pasta, I always prefer the spaghetti or the tagliatelle for this particular dish. When the pasta is al dente. pour off the water and blend in with the creamy sauce and carefully blend in the mussels, mind you keep some for garnish and a good bunch of chopped parsel to add to the presentation. Hello young lovers! Who said you would have to wait until Feb 14th to serve something truly romantic and afrodisiac for that matter?

Scandinavian advent - 4 weeks to Xmas

2008-11-30T17:56:00.002+01:00

This is the first Sunday before Xmas that most Scandinavians celebrate Advent. Not much of a xmassyfeeling here in southern Spain so here's how I created a scent of those olden days in a Christmas open market with glögg, Swedish gluhwein, gingerbread and a Sunday dinner to warm anyone with a hearty meal. The spices so traditionally linked to Christmas in Sweden are cinnamon, ginger, saffron, vanilla pods, cardamom capsules and spicy cloves.

So, I heated up some red wine with a cinnamon stick, a good pinch of sugar, some cloves and ginger. Chopped some almonds and voila, a good traditional Glögg with regards from Sweden. Served hot of course as an aperitif.

The empanadas with a hint of saffron were quickly wolfed down as a starter with a glass of red. Then chicken (fillets) casserole with garlic, chorizo, homemade tomatosauce and sweet red wine and cream. I added the frozen green peas just minutes before serving to preserve vitamins and not let them get overcooked. Served with buttery Hasselback potatoes straight from the oven.

Then I decided to make a new version of my childhood's gingerbread men into the shape of fluffy muffins instead. This is how I made them: Oven 220 degrees. Add 2 eggs with baking powder (15 grams approx) in a bowl. Melt 150 grams of unsalted butter together with 1, 5 dl caster sugar or even better brown sugar, Demerara preferably. Blend the spices together and grate som fresh ginger. I love that tangy, xmassy taste, not too sweet but the ginger also adds to the texture. Blend in with the mixture and 3 dl of plain flower. Add 1 dl of natural unsweetened yoghurt and pour into its moulds. Bake in oven for about 7-10 minutes and let cool.

This was a true feast with scents and flavours promising of another Christmas around the corner.

Animals in the beach not

2008-11-29T11:34:00.002+01:00

Good point and quite a clear message. Or not.

Boys will be boys

2008-11-22T18:06:00.005+01:00

What to do when the boys come back with a bunch of small fish? Fry them or prepare a Caldero? Of course it's Caldero time!

In to Africa

2008-11-21T10:29:00.002+01:00

The sky full of migrating birds heading south to escape the rain and cold.

Almejas

2008-11-20T13:09:00.003+01:00

How could you resist these garlicky almejas in white wine? I simply can't. Definitely one of my favourite dishes at the tapas bar or at home with friends. They're dead easy to make. Don't skip on the chillies nor the dry white. Needless to say, don't even think of compromising with the thinly sliced garlic cloves.

Mop up the lovely sauce with some fresh bread and make your "barquito" which means "small boat" in Spanish.
Yummy.

Spontaneous picnic

2008-11-12T13:19:00.005+01:00

Keep it simple, that is what Gordon Ramsay says. And I couldn't agree more. The cool temperature of the Sunday morning faded and the sun literally perforated the clouds. So, in the warm afternoon we enjoyed a simple picnic. I had prepared some chargrilled chicken marinated with garlic, thyme and paprika, a creamy tortilla with leeks and tatties and a tangy coleslaw with a hint of homegrown chilli. It was lovely.

Bar Restaurante Ramon, L.A.

2008-11-03T14:39:00.003+01:00

Look how proud they are! At the renowned Bar Ramon in Los Alcazares I have enjoyed many festive and delicious meals. My chum Mathias (to the left) suggests what to have, I cannot recall I have ever ordered from the menu. And I have never been disappointed.

It is of course fish and crustacea you will have here. Even if you only pop in to grab a few tapas you will be very pleased. It is very fresh, the presentation is beautiful. And the service is quick and attentive. If you are lucky, you are likely to bump in to Spanish celebs who frequent the place every now and then...

Try the lemony grilled langoustines or the slice of emperador, swordfish, as fresh as it shall be. Or combine your own plate of grilled gambas, razorclams or whatever is your favourite. This is the place to go to celebrate that special occasion and yes, it is a bit on the pricey side. Indulge and enjoy! It is worth every penny of it. Make sure to make a reservation for your Sunday family luncheon.

Back to normal

2008-10-19T19:25:00.004+02:00

Finally, holidays are over. For most of us who live here year round, this means back to normal.

What we see is a turn around a corner to have a clear view of new horizons, that is new fiestas, new parties and new occassions to welcome family and friends.

As a girl, I long to put on my suede boots and throw away the flip-flops used this summer. Did anyone say we did not have seasons here in Spain? We definitely do.

La Fiesta del Caldero, Los Alcázares

2008-10-14T11:23:00.006+02:00

The Fiesta of the famous and delicious Mar Menor dish, Caldero, was celebrated on Sunday 12 October. Along the seaside of the shores of Mar Menor in Los Alcázares hungry locals and enthusiasts gathered around party tents, barbeques and plenty of food and drink.

The caldero is traditionally prepared in an iron cauldron hanging over a log fire from a tripod. Making a good caldero takes many hours, reducing various fish until a concentrated stock remains. Then with good calasparra rice, the stock and the small dried red peppers, ñoras are added. Stirring evenly until creamy and served with alioli.

In the olden times the fishermen who came home emptyhanded used stones from the Mar Menor to add the "sea flavour" to their caldero!

The caldero is a typical local rice stew from the villages around Mar Menor and is not found or prepared anywhere else. At a chiringuito, a beach bar, my friend Ulrika from Stockholm and myself were in for a treat. A plate of steamy, creamy caldero landed in front of us and we hungrily wolfed down one plate after another, all washed down with Estrella Levante, the Murcian beer. Excellent fiesta!

Great neighbour

2008-10-02T20:07:00.008+02:00

Angel, the Gardener. I am always in for a treat when I pay a visit in his garden. He grows his own wine as well apart from the abundance of fruit and vegetables. In fact, he even tries to grow a mango tree as well as saffron!

Now I have not only the ingredients to the local traditional dish of Arroz de verduras, consisting of chargrilled vegetables folded in a tasty rice with smoked paprika powder, garlic and chicken stock. I have also a small bottle of his six year vintage red and enjoy a quick slurp, slightly chilled, whilst preparing. Gracias, Angel!

Frozen glass

2008-09-25T10:46:00.005+02:00

A Murcian bar, La Lonja de Paco in the poligono of Cabezo Beaza, just in the outskirts of Cartagena takes pride in serving your glass of beer as cold as it can get. Here you can enjoy not only cold beer but a variety of seafood and fish. Try the vieiras, ovenbaked scallops in a mix with crab in its shells, or the tortitas de camaron, crispy, fried minishrimp cakes with garlic and parsley. The almejas al ajillo , definitely one of my favourites - clams in white wine, olive oil, garlic and a hint of chilli. Ask for a bottle of a nice Rueda wine and it will land on the table perfectly chilled at 7 degrees Celsius, in a jiffy.

La Lonja de Paco does not have any menus. Paco and his attentive staff will suggest what is available and make sure you leave with a smile. And you are convinced you will never get hungry ever again!

Daisy's kitchen

2008-08-29T14:23:00.002+02:00

What an evening in L.A. (Los Alcazares)
I arrived at the party and prepared my classic gazpacho, then grilled salmon, some cava, white wine and for dessert lime sorbet with a twist of gin and lime zest.
To my eyes and ears this was a successful evening.
Now, just waiting for las chicas to comment.

To arrange your next party please contact daisy@costaiberica.com

Another new favourite, La Tartana

2008-08-27T19:07:00.010+02:00

To escape the heat from the streets of Cartagena and suddenly feeling famished, we took a table at the Restaurant La Tartana, Puertas de Murcia. We were in for a treat.

After a good look in the menu we settled for almejas al ajillo, the Galician classic starter of baby clams in olive oil, garlic and chili, and a beef carpaccio. The latter was presented with mustard instead of the classic olive oil, julienned celery stalks and ground pepper from the mill. A bit of a surprise and surprisingly delicious! The sweet peppery taste of the mustard met well with the wafer thin slices of fillet of beef.

Our only disappointment was that they did not have the Grillplate of tender baby veal, Churrasco de ternera lechal. We were perfectly happy with the lamb chops,though. The ubertender medaillon of beef served with Roquefortsauce was, grilled to perfection, poco hecho, just like I like it, juicy and raw inside.

Apparently a popular place to go for Saturday lunch with families, the place was packed at around three. The decorations are worth a visit though many non-Spanish prefer to sit down for drinks at the terrace outside, so they never get to see it. Old b/w pictures on the walls, big wine barrels high up, and there an old bicycle hanging from the ceiling.

Attentive staff make sure you leave happy and not bankrupt either. An excellent Crianza Marques de Vitoria that we picked for our meal hit us a mere 12 euros. Next time we will order the Buey a la Piedra, thin beef slices served on a table grill and the guests to help themselves, apparently the plate for regulars. Hasta la proxima!

First wine harvest in Europe?

2008-08-22T17:33:00.006+02:00

Bodega Serrano, creator of Vina Galtea dry white (and many other high class local Cartagena area wines) is busy picking wine for the upcoming vintages.

The whites are already in preparation, Manolo explains to me. He is the proud owner of this bodega. This harvest could be the first in Europe.

The flat, hot and sandy fields of Cartagena with its pine clad hills surrounding them, produce good wine since decades. My personal favourite is the crisp white Vina Galtea, a perfect companion for any seafood platter. To be served cool 6 degrees approx.

The ideal dessert wine for all you chocoholics out there is the musty red Darimus. Bodegas Serrano also makes a cavalike bubbly which is quite interesting. The first bottle of bubbly was only corked last year!

Contact us if you want a guided tour, Isabel@costaiberica.com

Breakfast in Los Camachos

2008-08-16T08:58:00.004+02:00

Excellent marketing and village wake up call in one.

Our chum Antonio at the Taverna de Los Camachos starts up the barbecue in the midst of the holiday season. Temptings scents allure us to the bbq and as we decide whether to have a spicy chorizo, longaniza or a tender meat skewer, people are gathering around us. Cold drinks await us at the bar. So simple, so good.

New shoes

2008-08-12T11:12:00.004+02:00

Strange observation, this was the effect of buying new shoes. As a man I've never felt any similar mental effect from such a mundane act. That Cartagena prepares for winter with sales of summer items already in the beginning of August of course plays a big part. Paris on Calle Mayor created the broadest smiles of the day.

Word of warning, Los Alcazares

2008-08-03T20:58:00.006+02:00

Feeling like wolfing down a hamburger? Given my gastronomical background even I must admit I sometimes feel like having a simple hamburger to ease the hunger. So I did today and it turned out to be a big mistake. Having seen the menu with prices ranging from around 3,60 for a cheeseburger I rapidly decided to have one of those and a small glass of beer. The waitress appeared nice and quick. Mind you I was a bit puzzled when she asked if I wanted the hamburger to be made of beef. Instantly my mind went, like, wait a minute: what else is a hamburger made of? Was there an option to get a Ratburger perhaps given the low prices? I replied that of course I wanted it to be a beef cheeseburger and nothing else.

As I hungrily wolfed down this canapee-sized cheeseburger, I ordered the check only to find that they had charged two euros more than what was indicated on the menu. I asked why and as routinely the waitress showed me exactly where it said that the actual beef burgers where 5,50 instead of my anticipation of 3,60, I understood that I was not the first customer to be surprised and asking this question. Later, at the Paseo by the beach I became angry. Angry with myself for not having asked for La Hoja de Reclamacion, as all businesses in Spain are obliged to be able to give their customers upon any misunderstanding, mishap or any miss whatsoever. This is duly signed and sent to a special authority that deals with these matters and takes the necessary steps duly and legally.

NB. It is not the two euros that is breaking my purse, it is purely the principle that places exist ripping people off routinely, with staff thinking that we are accidental tourists not knowing how to make an official complaint. Hence we will never return.

I will keep you posted with my resto reviews as we go along. See you soon!

The wine route of Bullas

2008-07-24T17:21:00.011+02:00

What do you do if you want to visit wine makers up in the valleys beyond electricity and mobile phones?
One answer should be to visit the Wine Museum in Bullas and book the wine route for a day. This young man proved to a true aficionado. You can tell he his, look at him on the picture here.

In his cool cellar we talked about palate och fruity wines. His vineyard is just outside Bullas situated in a small valley and the wine produced there is excellent thanks to not too hot summers and, spainwise, rather cold winters.

After trying wines directly from the oak barrel, Hungarian oak actually, our stomachs ached for energy. At the SG Hotel and Restaurant, my newest friend, the hotel director Conchi made us feel very welcome.

We had a three course meal with an excellent Carrascalejo red and full bodied wine of the Monastrell grape. Tha lamb was delicious and to the migas, a traditional dish consisting of breadcrumbs, Conchi knew perfectly how to treat us. A superchilled bottle of bubbly rose, sweet as a June afternoon, landed. It was crisp, yet fruity but not as sweet to the taste as I had feared. The migas were served with deepfried small sardines and grilled, locally produced of course, veggies. It was surprisingly tasty so we know what to ask for upon our return!

The lamb was falling from the bone. Made in the oven with garlic pennies and grilled tomatoes it had a hint of fresh thyme and rosemary. The alioli was pungent and very tasty but still a bit overwhelming.

We will return with our good friends in our entourage, and show them this winedistrict in the Murcian hills, with its breathtaking views, sumptous wines and wonderful gastronomy, and give them a tasty treat. Hasta la vista Bullas!

Chilli season

2008-07-22T13:02:00.007+02:00

My chillies are getting redder and larger every day so the chilli season is in full swing. My infused oil will be ready in a few days, also I will be drying a bunch, ready to be sprinkled over a Thai-inspired dish. For all the rest they will be distributed amongst friends and family! They are healthy and extremely potent in flavour. I love a hot dish, makes you feel cleansed, like a detox. They are the best medicine to scare any beginning flu or cold away.

Kitesurfing lesson 2 and 3

2008-07-16T10:36:00.003+02:00

Controlling the kite on land.
Felix: "I am really getting the feel for the kite now but I need some more land training before I try it on the board in water."
This will happen next time he flies down.

Rain in Spain

2008-07-16T10:21:00.004+02:00

might be highly needed (although I haven't heard much talk about depleted reservoirs these last months.)

The need for a pool cover becomes clear every time there is a lot of rain though. The amount of sand and dust that is pulled down from the air into the pool water can be stunning. The vacum and filter system worked overtime for hours afterwards.

Strong winds

2008-07-14T11:19:00.004+02:00

We had undeniably strong northerly winds yesterday but still... What happened here? Why? We'll try to find out.
Luckily this catamaran choose the Cabo de Palos sand instead of the cliffs.

Kitesurfing Mar Menor

2008-07-07T14:15:00.006+02:00

Every weekend when there's wind we see this fascinating view from a distance. Kite surfing is becoming a big thing in the area.
Obviously a lot of fun so I asked http://www.prokitespain.es (Gines) about costs. It turns out a 6 hour course (2 hours per day during 3 days) is EUR 180. A bit steep perhaps but I repeat, this sport is a lot of fun and great exercise.

Asiatico - not very Asian

2008-07-03T14:20:00.005+02:00

A coffee drink that most bars and restaurants in the Cartagena and greater Costa Calida area know how to prepare.

Its contents are strong espresso coffee, condensed milk, Licor 43, a dash of Spanish brandy, small lime zest and a coffee bean.

It was invented by a bar owner in El Albujon near Murcia, but no one in Murcia knows how to prepare it there, it is truly a Cartaginian drink.

Visit a Venta

2008-07-03T13:47:00.009+02:00

Ventas are worth a visit. These small bars and-or restos are usually found near small older "yellow" roads. A good sign is all the trucks and small company pickups being parked outside. The drivers know where to find the good and cheap grub along with local delicatessen and freshly made bread from the log oven. So the next time you pass a popular venta drop in for a quick sip of some local wine on tap straight from the oak barrel and make sure you get some pub grub in Spanish. You will not regret it.

Caldero, the Mar Menor rice dish

2008-07-03T13:11:00.007+02:00

A rice dish with a long history, particular to the Mar Menor area. It is delicious and made of a tangy bouillon from sea bass, doradas cooked together with loads of garlic, small dried peppers, ñoras, and served with alioli, garlic mayo the Spanish way. Lemon wedges on the side.

It is said that in the olden days, the fishermen who came back with empty nets used to put small stones found in the Mar Menor to give some seaflavour to this dish.

The wellbespoke restaurateur Pablo Guardiola in the old fishing village of Los Nietos serves his wife's Caldero with due respect and much love. Another rice dish not to be missed! Enjoy it with a nice bottle of chilled wine.

Murcia fiestas

2008-07-01T16:58:00.016+02:00

Too numerous to list...

But here is an attempt:

Carthagineses y Romanos. The mother of all fiestas: Taking place in Cartagena during 10 days of September each year. We are celebrating that Hannibal Barca, arguably the most famous Cartaginian, punished the Roman empire or that the Romas conquered Cartagena from the Carthaginians some 2017 years ago. One good Hannibal quote: "We will either find a way, or make one."

In April (16-22 last year) do not miss the funeral of the sardine in Murcia. Totally crazy! In a good family friendly way.

The San Javier jazz festival attracts many big names in the beginning of July each year. 2008 we have Gary Moore, Manhattan transfer, Johnny Winter among many. Sadly Isaac Hayes cancelled due to health reasons so we have to look forward to his appearance another year.

San Juan around the 23rd of June is a very good reason to spend hundreds on fireworks.

Of course, every little village have their own fiestas, normally several per year with marching bands waking the villagers up at 0900 after the night when the dance started at 0300.

La mar de Musicas during July each year in Cartagena overlooking the Roman amphitheatre is a great spectacle for everyone prepared to stay up late. Two years ago the theme was Argentinian tango, last years theme was African. This year, who knows? Highly recommended for the stayuplate.

(Music photo copyright: Jazz San Javier. Other photos on this site copyright CostaIberica media)

The spa in Fortuna

2008-07-01T15:02:00.003+02:00

Has more of a medical focus that their colleagues in Archena. These ladies clearly enjoy the water that stays around 32 degrees C year round.

See also: Murcia spas.

Only in a Murcian spa?

2008-07-01T14:51:00.005+02:00

Ahh, the wonderful spa in Archena. The lemon pool is only one of the highlights.

Actually, they do not call it a spa or bath but the balneario. They even have an igloo to escape the hot pools and steamy saunas.

See also: Murcia spas

Murcia rentals

2008-07-01T13:06:00.001+02:00

Costa Calida properties

2008-07-01T13:05:00.008+02:00

Los Camachos:
The perfect townhouse for a family working in the area. Traditional Spanish townhouse in the rural village of Los Camachos, just 8 kms from the historical city of Cartagena and the sandy dunes of the Mar Menor. Ideal for a family working nearby or planning to start a new life in Spain. The 3 bed- and 2 baths house has a swimming pool, a roof terrace with breathtaking views of the Mar Menor, the largest lagoon in Europe. Large fully fitted open kitchen/lounge with fireplace, central A/C, swimming pool, outside heated shower, roof terrace (stairs required yet to be built), fireplace.
Built 2005. large garage
Solar system for water heating. 8 km from Cartagena
Price : a consultar.

Please do not hesitate to contact Isabel for more information.
Nous parlons français. Hablamos español. Vi talar svenska/skandinavisk.
Tel. +34 662 248 723 Isabel@costaiberica.com

Murcia activity

2008-07-01T12:29:00.008+02:00

Diving
Club Buceo Islas Hormigas has proven itself as a reliable club with all licenses and customer care in place. Please be aware that there can be quite shady dive operators in thew area.

Sailing

Gocart
Recommended: Orihuela Gocart. Not recommended La Manga Gocart.

Spas

Agua Natura

Kite surfing
When there's wind you will see kites over Mar Menor "no wind no fun" as the surfers say even though their English language skills might be close to zero.

Museo Teatro Romano
A must if you are at all interested in history. Excavations started in 1988 and to everyones surprise a roman theatre was found hidden and forgotten since some 1600 years. Seating 6000 spectators it is thought to be the 5th largest such theatre in existence.

Wine routes
Ruta de vinos Bullas

Bodega Serrano

Costa shopping

2008-07-01T12:27:00.002+02:00

Shoes

Paris on Cartagenas Calle Mayor

Murcia gastronomy

2008-07-01T12:20:00.006+02:00

Asiatico

Almejas

Caldero

Chilli season

Langostinos de Mar Menor

Costa Calida restaurants

2008-07-01T12:19:00.015+02:00

A few of the local restaurants that have proven themselves over time and new ones that raise themselves above the rest:

Bar Ramon

An excellent place in Los Alcazares for the seafood aficionado. Try their delicious tapas and continue in to the green room and enjoy what they recommend. A bit on the pricey side, but still one of the best places to go for any occasion: that romantic meal for the two of you or the birthday bash. Ask for Matias, attentive waiter and say hello from La Marquesa de Los Camachos, Isabel, a good friend of his, when making your reservation.

Restaurante Pablo Guardiola
Los Nietos, caldero specialist among other things.

Pincho de Castilla

If you are a bbq and beef lover, this is your place. The pungent scent of firewood burning as you enter you will have made sure to having made a reservation beforehand. The last time we went the gambas rojas were the best we have hade ever, mind you the price is somewhat exciting as well... As a starter for four it is quite expensive for about 80 EUR. The baby goat's leg is falling apart from the bone as you start to eat, so tender it is. The especially fried stick tatties is so crispy you will talk about them for months after. It is now a signature dish in Daisy's Kitchen Catering served at parties and fancy dinners. The address is Calle Angel Bruna, at the corner, in Cartagena, near the social security office where most of us have been to, those of us who are working and living in Cartagena and its surroundings.

Jie Ichiban

This anonymous resto at Plaza del Rey in Cartagena is a true gem. The lovely couple are the hosts that take a pride in showing the Spaniards how true good Jap food is supposed to be. They are attentive and nice, the prices will not breake the bank and the food is so fresh and good it will leave you happy for several days. Try everything, there is nothing I can't recommend. It is a pity not many have found this place, hopefully they will. This is the place to go when you have had all those tapas and Spanish slap-up meals (yes, they actually do exist) a bit too much.

La Tana

Recommended not only by Guide Michelin but also by Costa Iberica.com, this place calls for a celebration. The tanned divers passing back and forth in their RIBS (Rigid Inflatable Boats) surely add to the nice scenery. Do not order meat here, this is a fishy place... Enjoy a bottle of the excellent locally produced wine Vina Galtea and the mixed grill of fish and seafood. Or just settle for the grilled sardines which is a good budget choice. Enjoy.

Asia Chic
Orihuela Costa

El Chato
Los Alcazares

La Lonja de Paco
Hard to find in the poligono and you should have basic Spanish under your belt to understand what is happening.

Pizzeria La Rucola
Los Alcazares

Ventas
not a specific name of a restaurant but a term indicating a road side place for eating, drinking and some shopping. Lorries and trucks parked outside is a good sign. They have spent so many hours on the road, by now they know where to go park and eat well and cheap.

DejaVu, Cabo de Palos

Restaurante Teatro Romano

Restaurante La Tartana
Address: Puertas de Murcia , central Cartagena (across the street from Mc Donalds)
It may look like a normal bar from the outside but step through the door and you will find a very high class restaurante.

Murcia spas

2008-07-01T12:14:00.007+02:00

With at least 2000 years of spa history this area has much going for it.
At around 1500 meter under the montain surface there is hot mineral water that at certain places wells up to the ground.
The Romans and later the Arabs/Muslims found this resource extremely valuable and channeled, as needed, the water in tunnels to where they found the perfect place for a spa.

Some of the best ones:

Mula - the upstart, only about 1000 years of history. Founded by the Arabs.

Archena - 2000 years of spa history. Founded by Romans.

Fortuna - 2000 years of spa history. Also founded by Romans.

Costa guides

2008-06-29T12:16:00.010+02:00

One purpose of Costaiberica.com is to guide you to the best hotels, spas, restaurants etc on Costa Calida.

Restaurants

Activities

Fiestas

Shopping

Spas

Properties

Rentals

Gastronomy

Picnic under an olive tree

2008-06-19T11:35:00.000+02:00

Do it like the Murcians and make the picnic a gastronomic experience.

They do not necessarily keep it simple but prepare several types of tapas and marinated meat for the barbecue the day before.

End to the strike.

2008-06-15T07:42:00.000+02:00

Yesterday the supermarket shelves were pretty much back to normal.

Spanish hauliers' strike continues

2008-06-12T16:33:00.000+02:00

The supermarket shelves are emptying further and no diesel in sight at our local petrol station.
Zapatero urges a conclusion to the conflict.
With the tourist season getting into gear, including family and friends of ours having to be picked up at the airport it could mean some actual problems if fuel and food do not start flowing again soon.

Spanish hauliers' strike

2008-06-11T14:29:00.000+02:00

Having to drive 250 km tomorrow it was quite distressing to find the local gas station totally out of diesel.
Then, the pride of the supermarket, their seafood section looks like above today.
An eerie feeling. People are clearly stock piling drinking water and baby food.

I finally found a petrol station with some stocks left so I managed to fill the tank.

Prawns at €150.00/kg?

2008-06-07T09:44:00.000+02:00

They are the famed "langostinos del Mar Menor" that are being caught only in the month of May every year.

Indeed delicious and delicate, you eat everything, shell and all except the head. Mind you at that price you would not waste the tiniest bit...

In a very good year there might be enough prawns to export a few to some snazzy restos in Madrid but normally, the Murcians keep them to themselves.

Restaurante Pablo Guardiola in Los Nietos prepares them gently in slightly salted water to not overwhelm their exquisite taste.

Back to normal.

2008-06-06T10:16:00.001+02:00

We were a bit worried about the trauma suffered but she is now back to her normal self, a lot cleaner though.

10 June: She did it again. Fell in the pool but went straight for the patio door this time.

A very clumsy cat

2008-06-05T15:53:00.001+02:00

"The Macaroni", one of our roof cats just fell 2.5 meters from the wall straight in to our pool.
She tried to climb back up via the window bars but failed miserably.
We treated her to a can of tuna and guided her out through the door.

2008-06-05T14:37:00.001+02:00

Hello, testing.