Discover one of the most unique things to do in Sotogrande: exploring the Sotogrande Marina and canals by boat. This episode also looks at family activities in Sotogrande, corporate events, tourism, seasonality and how the community is changing.Charlie speaks with Rafael Calvo of Ikebana Eventos and Jugarnia Nautic about how his family first discovered Sotogrande through an events project in 2015, why they decided to make the area home, and how that experience eventually led to a boat business in Puerto Sotogrande. They discuss Sotogrande boat tours and rentals, the canals and marina, team-building and corporate events, family entertainment, the difference between summer and the quieter months, and what Rafael believes Sotogrande still needs for families.CHAPTERS00:00 Meet Rafael and Ikebana Eventos01:25 A young entrepreneur between Madrid and Sotogrande02:02 From Russia and Peru to Spain, Miami and Gibraltar03:03 How work first brought Rafael to Sotogrande03:26 The 2015 family theme park project04:23 Why his family chose to stay in Sotogrande04:48 What makes Sotogrande different06:10 Learning the events business from the ground up08:47 From government events to private experiences10:15 Events, team-building and company culture12:12 What a CFO does in event production13:25 Budgeting for large events15:14 Team-building on the water in Sotogrande15:53 The idea behind Jugarnia Nautic16:48 The Sotogrande Canal Tour18:12 Growing demand for boat experiences19:02 How Sotogrande has changed since 201520:15 Why September and October are growing21:02 How AI is changing the events industry22:37 What Sotogrande still needs for familiesMORE INFORMATIONJugarnia Nautic — jugarnianautic.comIkebana Eventos — ikebanaeventos.comCONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram:   / charlieinsotogrande  👤 Facebook:   / charlieinsotogrande  👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube:    / nollsotogrande  🐦 Twitter:   / charliegubbins  📱 TikTok:   / charlesgubbins  

What does it really take to go from being an introvert to becoming a confident communicator and leader — and how can the people, places and experiences around us shape that journey?In this episode of Charlie in Sotogrande, Charles Gubbins sits down with Silvina Hood, communication, persuasion and leadership mentor, to discuss finding your voice, overcoming personal blocks and learning to communicate with confidence and authenticity. Having previously lived and worked in Sotogrande, Silvina also reflects on her connection to the area, the local business community and why Sotogrande became an important part of both her personal and professional journey.Silvina shares her path from industrial design in Argentina to marketing, including how she established herself professionally in Sotogrande before eventually moving to Málaga. She explains how her own experience as an introvert led her to challenge her comfort zone, develop her presence and ultimately build a career helping other people communicate and lead more effectively.Charles and Silvina also discuss how marketing has evolved in Sotogrande and the real estate industry, the growing importance of personal branding, podcasts and visibility, and why businesses increasingly need to adapt the way they communicate.In this episode:00:00 – Introducing Silvina Hood: marketing, mindset and finding your voice00:33 – Who is Silvina Hood? Communication, persuasion and leadership01:16 – Why Silvina moved from Sotogrande to Málaga03:02 – From industrial design in Argentina to marketing04:22 – How marketing has changed over the last decade06:14 – How Silvina started working in Sotogrande07:07 – Innovation, marketing and working with Charles Gubbins09:11 – The biggest marketing mistakes in Sotogrande real estate10:20 – Personal branding, podcasts and becoming ready to be visible13:12 – Adapt or die: how people consume information today14:21 – Silvina’s career shift from marketing to communication and leadership15:03 – What does it mean to be of service to others?16:34 – Introversion, extroversion and learning to step outside your comfort zone18:09 – Silvina’s personal journey from introvert to communicator19:17 – One-to-one coaching vs group coaching20:48 – Mind, body and soul: Silvina’s approach to communication22:04 – Why your energy speaks louder than your words23:39 – Body language, presence and projecting confidence24:15 – How to overcome blocks through micro-steps25:13 – Coaching women, entrepreneurs and professionals27:54 – Why personal development matters in leadership28:23 – What dog training taught Silvina about energy and communication29:37 – What Sotogrande means to Silvina30:03 – Why Sotogrande made her feel safe30:46 – Would Silvina move back to Sotogrande?32:59 – Where to connect with Silvina HoodHer experience also offers another perspective on living and working in Sotogrande. From building professional relationships within the local community to experiencing the sense of safety and connection that the area can offer, Silvina reflects on why Sotogrande continues to hold significance for her even after moving to Málaga.The conversation also looks at how communication and marketing are evolving within businesses and real estate, why personal brands matter more than ever, and why simply being visible isn’t enough — your message, your presence and your purpose need to be aligned.CONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile: +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: charlesgubbins.comSTAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins

Vivir en Sotogrande todo el año ya no es una excepción. En este episodio hablamos de cómo ha cambiado la vida en Sotogrande, por qué cada vez más familias se instalan de forma permanente y qué diferencia hoy a la comunidad frente a destinos como Marbella.Charles Gubbins conversa con Manu Gil, periodista y cofundador de LIVE! SOTO, sobre la evolución de Sotogrande desde una urbanización muy estacional hasta una comunidad internacional activa durante los 12 meses. Hablan del impacto del teletrabajo y el Sotogrande International School, del crecimiento de nuevos residentes, la transformación de las viviendas, la comparación Sotogrande vs Marbella, el futuro de la comunicación local y el papel de LIVE!SOTO para conectar a residentes, empresas, deporte, gastronomía y lifestyle.00:00 – Manu Gil: conectar personas y poner en valor Sotogrande01:17 – De periodista en Algeciras a 15 años comunicando Sotogrande03:57 – Cómo era Sotogrande hace 15 años04:35 – De destino estacional a comunidad activa todo el año05:50 – Teletrabajo, nuevas familias y crecimiento del colegio internacional07:32 – Cómo el COVID aceleró el cambio08:02 – Sotogrande vs Marbella: tranquilidad, privacidad y estilo de vida10:21 – El potencial de Sotogrande y el futuro de sus viviendas11:19 – Kings & Queens: reformar casas de los 70 y 80 para vivir todo el año12:28 – Por qué nació LIVE!SOTO14:02 – Qué hacer, dónde comer, golf, eventos y servicios en Sotogrande15:03 – El lanzamiento de LIVE!SOTO en Don Diego16:01 – Por qué LIVE!SOTO no quiere ser un periódico tradicional17:35 – Cómo comunicar noticias sin dañar la imagen de la comunidad19:55 – ¿Puede haber demasiada información sobre Sotogrande?21:27 – El alcance global de los medios digitales22:44 – Casi un millón de visualizaciones y el interés fuera de Sotogrande24:12 – Por qué las historias funcionan mejor cuando tienen una cara25:49 – Historias y curiosidades del antiguo Sotogrande27:19 – La visión urbanística que todavía define Sotogrande29:21 – Los rincones favoritos de Manu en SotograndeSotogrande nació en los años 60 como una comunidad planificada alrededor de la privacidad, el espacio, la naturaleza y una infraestructura poco habitual para su época. Esa baja densidad y visión a largo plazo siguen formando parte de su identidad, mientras la comunidad evoluciona hacia una vida más internacional y permanente.Hoy, deporte, colegios, restauración, trabajo remoto y servicios durante todo el año están cambiando la forma en que residentes y futuros compradores entienden Sotogrande. Este episodio analiza esa evolución desde dentro, con la perspectiva de alguien que lleva años contando las historias y las personas que forman la comunidad.Más información:LIVE!SOTO: livesoto.comInstagram LIVE!SOTO: live.sotoCONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins

What do today’s Sotogrande homeowners really want from their interiors?

In this episode, we explore interior design, changing property trends, villa renovations, turnkey homes and the return of warmth, character and traditional Spanish influences in contemporary Sotogrande properties.

Today I am joined by Camilla Seymour Cole and Lizzie from CSC Interiors, an interior design studio based in Puerto de Sotogrande. The conversation looks at how the homes and lifestyles of Sotogrande residents are evolving, as a younger and increasingly international community moves into the area.

They discuss the journey from traditional Andalusian villas to ultra-modern architecture—and why many homeowners are now returning to Spanish rooflines, natural textures, warmer materials and more character, while still expecting the comfort and functionality of contemporary design.

Interior design in Sotogrande is no longer simply about creating a stylish property. For homeowners, buyers and investors, the real value comes from creating a home that feels personal, comfortable and complete.

Camilla and Lizzie explain how designers transform Pinterest images, artwork, furniture, personal objects and initial ideas into a coherent interior design brief. They also discuss the differences between designing permanent residences, second homes, investment apartments and turnkey villas.

The episode looks at what modern property buyers now expect, why furnished and move-in-ready homes are becoming increasingly important, and how professional interior design can add both emotional and financial value to a property.

They also explore why older Sotogrande villas are increasingly being renovated or replaced, how limited property inventory is influencing the market, and why homeowners from Marbella and other parts of the Costa del Sol are beginning to look towards Sotogrande.

The conversation also covers the differences between Spanish and Northern European design preferences, how CSC Interiors sources furniture, beds, rugs, fabrics and finishes, and why furnishing or renovating a Sotogrande property must be carefully planned well before the summer season.

This episode is especially useful for anyone buying a property, renovating a villa, furnishing an apartment, preparing an investment home or simply looking for interior design inspiration in Sotogrande.

More information:

CSC Interiors:
www.cscinteriors.es

CSC Interiors Instagram:
@csc_interiors_sotogrande

More about Sotogrande real estate:
www.noll-sotogrande.com

CONNECT WITH CHARLIE!

📲 Mobile: +34 607 911 661
✉️ Email: [email protected]
🔗 Website: www.charlesgubbins.com

STAY CONNECTED!

📸 Instagram: /charlieinsotogrande
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What is it really like to grow up inside the world of Sotogrande polo; and how does that lifestyle shape a world champion? This episode explores polo in Sotogrande, horse breeding, professional sport and the year-round community behind one of Spain’s most distinctive destinations.Today we speak with Spanish polo player Pelayo Berazadi about growing up in Sotogrande, leaving banking to build a professional polo career, developing horses and helping promote polo beyond the summer season. Pelayo also tells the story of Spain’s historic 2022 FIP World Polo Championship victory, explains how the tournament works and reflects on scoring the golden goal against the United States.
Polo has been part of Sotogrande’s identity since the 1960s, growing from local family matches into an international sporting tradition. Today, the area combines elite competition with academies, lessons and tournaments that make polo part of the wider social and family lifestyle; not simply a spectacle for August.Pelayo’s story also reflects Sotogrande’s shift from a seasonal holiday destination to a year-round community. For residents and newcomers, polo connects sport, horses, business, family life and an international network of people who increasingly choose Sotogrande as a permanent base.Pelayo Berazadi: @pelayoberazadiIberian Polo Tour: iberianpolo.comAyala Polo Club: ayalapolo.comFIP World Polo Championship: www.fippolo.comCONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins

Why does Sotogrande produce so many world-class golfers? In this episode of Charlie in Sotogrande, we explore the journey from local junior golf to the Ladies European Tour, while discovering why Sotogrande has become one of Europe's premier golf destinations.I am joined by Maria Parra, a professional golfer from Guadiaro who has competed on both the Ladies European Tour and the LPGA Tour. We discuss growing up playing golf at La Cañada Golf Club, earning a place among the world's top amateur golfers, life travelling the professional tours, the mental side of elite golf, sponsorship, injuries, and why players from around the world choose Sotogrande to train. We also explore the area's incredible golfing infrastructure, how junior golfers develop here, and why Sotogrande continues to attract some of the best players in Europe.

Sotogrande has earned an international reputation as one of Europe's finest golf destinations. Home to world-renowned courses including Real Club Valderrama, La Reserva Club, Real Club Sotogrande, San Roque Club, and nearby La Cañada Golf Club, the area attracts professionals, national teams and amateur golfers from around the world. Its year-round climate, championship courses and outstanding practice facilities have helped create an environment where local talent can develop alongside some of the world's best players.For local residents, golf is far more than a sport—it is one of the foundations of the community and one of the biggest reasons people choose to live, invest and spend time in Sotogrande. Maria's journey demonstrates how the region's unique golfing ecosystem gives young players the opportunity to progress from local junior competitions to the very highest levels of professional golf.CONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins

Why does Sotogrande produce so many world-class golfers? In this episode of Charlie in Sotogrande, we explore the journey from local junior golf to the Ladies European Tour, while discovering why Sotogrande has become one of Europe's premier golf destinations.I am joined by Maria Parra, a professional golfer from Guadiaro who has competed on both the Ladies European Tour and the LPGA Tour. We discuss growing up playing golf at La Cañada Golf Club, earning a place among the world's top amateur golfers, life travelling the professional tours, the mental side of elite golf, sponsorship, injuries, and why players from around the world choose Sotogrande to train. We also explore the area's incredible golfing infrastructure, how junior golfers develop here, and why Sotogrande continues to attract some of the best players in Europe.

Thinking about moving to Sotogrande? Discover why more entrepreneurs, international families, and business owners are choosing Sotogrande as their permanent home while running global businesses. In this episode of Charlie in Sotogrande, we explore remote work, international business, family life, golf, education, and what makes this unique community so different from anywhere else on the Costa del Sol.I sit down with Diojo Asis, founder of global event company VOQIN, which has delivered corporate events in over 67 countries around the world. Together they discuss how he built an international business, why his family decided to leave Lisbon for Sotogrande, how remote work has changed the way entrepreneurs live, the importance of Sotogrande International School, golf, raising children in a multicultural environment, company culture, leadership, innovation and why Sotogrande has become their family's "happy place."Whether you're considering relocating to Spain, looking for the perfect place to raise a family, or simply curious about the lifestyle that attracts entrepreneurs from across Europe, this episode offers an honest perspective from someone living it every day.
More information about Voqin:www.voqin.comSotogrande has become one of Southern Europe's most desirable destinations for international families, entrepreneurs and professionals seeking a balance between career and lifestyle. Known for its world-class golf courses, marina, polo, sailing, international school and low-density master-planned community, it offers a unique alternative to busier destinations such as Marbella.Over recent years, improvements in remote working, international connectivity and year-round infrastructure have attracted an increasing number of families relocating permanently to Sotogrande. The combination of safety, excellent education, outdoor living and an international community continues to make it one of Spain's most attractive places to live.If you're interested in moving to Sotogrande, learning more about the community or discovering the people shaping its future, Charlie in Sotogrande brings you conversations with residents, entrepreneurs and experts who know the area best.CONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins

Is Sotogrande becoming the smarter alternative to Marbella for luxury property buyers on the Costa del Sol? In this episode, Charlie speaks with Pippa Jones about Marbella vs Sotogrande, the changing property market, buyer behaviour, personal branding, real estate trust and what people moving to Spain should understand before choosing an agent.

Pippa Jones, founder of Jones in Marbella, has worked in the Marbella property market for many years and brings a sharp perspective on what is happening across the coast. Together, Charlie and Pippa compare the lifestyle differences between Marbella and Sotogrande, why some buyers arrive wanting Marbella but fall in love with Sotogrande, how YouTube and personal branding are changing real estate, why trust matters more than ever, and what regulation, transparency, AI and new property platforms could mean for the future of the Costa del Sol property market.

More information:Jones in Marbella: www.jonesinmarbella.comJones in Marbella Instagram: @jones_in_marbellaLinkedin: Pippa JonesCONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins

What does a true smart home in Sotogrande actually look like today? In this episode, Charlie explores luxury villa technology, home automation, lighting design, security, energy efficiency and the rise of “quiet luxury” in high-end homes.Today I am joined by Victor from Illusion, a specialist in smart home integration, lighting, audio visual systems, security, home automation and luxury villa technology. Recorded at Illusion’s Plaza Blanca Sotogrande Experience Center, the conversation looks at how technology can improve everyday life in a home without making it feel complicated. They discuss why modern smart homes should be discreet, human-centred and easy to use, especially for large villas, second homes and luxury properties in Sotogrande.

Smart home technology is becoming a major part of the luxury property conversation in Sotogrande. For owners, buyers and developers, it is no longer just about having an app or a few automated lights. The real value comes from comfort, security, energy management, lighting, sound, privacy and a home that works naturally around the people living in it.This episode is especially useful for anyone renovating a villa, building a new home, buying property in Sotogrande or trying to understand what modern luxury buyers now expect from a high-end home.More information:Illusion: e-illusion.esIllusion Instagram: illusion_marbellaCONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins