For over a century the name Montblanc has stood for style, elegance and quality, its pens and stationary items among the best that money could buy. Though built on a classical tradition, the brand has continued to remain in vogue and is now being discovered by a whole new generation.

Today Montblanc ranks as one of the top luxury brands in the world, but as is often the case its origins are quite humble. Founded in 1908 by Claus-Johannes Voss, Alfred Nehemias and August Eberstein, the firm then known as the Simplo Filler Pen Company could count on the skills of a stationer, a banker and an engineer respectively. Moreover, this Hamburg-based company is German, not French or Swiss, as one might have deduced from the name. (more…)

Ten years old this year, Manifesto Design is the design and marketing company founded by expat couple Michel and Jackie Cruz, who moved to Spain some 15 years ago.

Now longstanding residents of Marbella, they have made a life for themselves, building a good name as reliable and skilled professionals, and creating a company that has weathered the recession well and is showing renewed growth and vigour. (more…)

In the heart of the old town there is an enchanting home that encapsulates the charm, elegance and the unique ambience of Tarifa.

This article first appeared in Essential magazine and is for sale with Tarifa Direct.
Words: Michel Cruz, Photography: pierrerichardsonphotography.com

Tarifa’s historic centre is a small but attractive maze of little streets and squares populated by white-plastered houses and stylish boutique hotels. Some are grand, others unassuming, but an occasional glimpse through an open door reveals the oasis of peace and fresh air created within the courtyard patios of even the humblest of homes. (more…)

Post by guest blogger Claire Jamison

On Friday 24^th August, Marbella’s first ever Fashion Week was held at the trendy Nikki Beach club. With seven exciting designers, super hot models and a location that screams glam, MFW truly was a fashionista’s paradise.

With the sun setting in the distance, this beautiful backdrop for the show helped create the effortlessly cool, trendy atmosphere. Already known as a famously glamorous Marbella venue, Nikki Beach provided a perfect outdoor fashion show location complete with champagne cocktails. (more…)

For a truly romantic dining experience Apsleys should be at the top of your wish list – offering the kind of ambience and pampering service you could easily get accustomed to…

Set within the hallowed grounds of the Lanesborough Hotel, Apsleys is the kind of restaurant that breathes elegance, glamour and occasion. No trendy upstart is this, with clever décor and New Speak terminology, but a grand restaurant in which an old-world sophistication adds to the enjoyment. You wouldn’t be surprised if James Bond, immaculately turned out in a tux, came strolling through the door, wouldn’t bat an eyelid if some famous socialite were at his side. But that is not to say that this is a stuffy, antiquated establishment – far from it. (more…)