Blog for INC Members

Ask anyone to name 2 facts about Madeira and you will probably hear tales of Cristian Ronaldo extending the airport runway and with it the pilot´s lifespan in winter storms. Or perhaps that it´s primarily a destination favoured by the elderly looking for gentle climes and alluring flora in our winter months.

Others might mention the eponymously named amber wines or Winston and Clementine Churchill taking tea at the Reids Hotel that featured in James Bond´s Golden Eye. However, very few will be likely to associate off-piste jeep safaris, whale spotting, canyoning or zip wiring with this volcanic island 870 km off the coast of Casablanca in North Africa.

I am a loyal fan of Portuguese outposts and have expanded my Lusitanian vocabulary round Cabo Verde, the Azores and Brazil so last summer I decided to explore another Portuguese frontier closer to home.

Just one tuna tataki cornetto, give it to me...Original fare from AkuaMo

The island of Madeira is about three times the size of Nantucket, twice the area of the Isle of Wight and slightly larger than Singapore.  Still a hit amongst green-fingered septuagenarians, this mountainous isle is now very much geared towards an adventurous crowd of all ages.

Mother and daughter basket cases

In fact, Madeira has been associated with bracing activities since the mid 1800’s as the residents of the cooler hills of Monte enjoyed many a hair-raising descent to the capital, Funchal in a toboggan-shaped wicker basket. These sledges are still skilfully steered by elegant men known as carreiros, clad in white with a straw boater, who took much delight in imitating my shrieks of “Oh My God!” as we hurtled down the slippery smooth roads, in amongst the odd car, at 40 km/hour.

The Portuguese word madeira means wood, referring to the dense forests coating the island when navigators first landed on its shores in the 15th century. The lush rugged ravines, fertile volcanic soil and balmy climate make Madeira a safe haven for all manner of tropical fruits brought back from South America which are now on display at Funchal´s colourful Mercado dos Lavradores.

Rainbow fruits at Lavradores market

Outside throbbing Funchal, the dramatic coastline and postcard-pretty churches are a magnet for painters. Winston Churchill paid the island a visit with his wife, Clementine in January 1950 for that very reason. The British statesman and his formidable wife disembarked from the Durban Castle liner to great fanfare and fireworks and stayed at historic Reids hotel where an emblematic afternoon tea is still served today on a terrace above the sea provided you´re not wearing trainers.

Churchill sounds like my kind of traveller as he toured the island in an open topped Rolls Royce with a converted bar in the back before setting up his easel in the fishing village of Camara de Lobos just east of Funchal where he painted the iconic wooden boats in a scene that can still be admired today.

Clementine was no stranger to exotic travel as fifteen years earlier she had gone on an intrepid four-month voyage round Burma, Borneo and onto to Komodo to trap a few a dragons to exhibit in London Zoo (eek!). Accompanied by my grandmother´s uncle, Terence Philip, various sources allege that they had an “amitié amoureuse” on board. It was short-lived as one of the other guests insulted Winston during a radio broadcast they were listening to under the starry skies and Clementine promptly abandoned ship. However, they remained close (platonic) friends for many years.

From Sonia Purnell´s biography of Clementine

Nowadays, in an increasingly globalised world, the essence of the real Madeira is the key draw for visitors looking for a genuine, cultural experience and a wide range of surf and turf activities.  And if you´re after the real flavour of Madeira I recommend a trip to Blandy´s Wine Lodge where they have been making wine for over 200 years. 

Madeira wine originated in the 15th–16th centuries, when barrels sent on long sea voyages were transformed by heat and movement into a unique, fortified wine.
Its distinctive “cooked” flavour led producers to recreate the effect on land, making Madeira one of the few wines deliberately aged with heat and oxidation. I particularly enjoyed a 10 year-old dry, nutty Sercial, a fruity 2011 Single Harvest Verdelho and a full-bodied 1987 Terrantez while my daughter snacked on cured pork.

Everyone needs a little fortification once in a while

Other days were spent watching frolicking dolphins and whales and swimming in volcanic rock pools in Porto Moniz, walking along a few terraced levadas (water irrigation canals) and eating top notch tuna at Atlantic near the Cliff Bay Hotel and Akua in Funchal centre where it was served raw in a tataki cornetto.

Madeira refuses to be tamed—wild, charged, and alive with the same restless energy as the adventurous souls it draws. If you are a seeker of authenticity, hairpin bends, jagged peaks in racing clouds, and mouth-watering food, I heartily recommend it.  There are direct flights from Madrid. Just leave the wildlife where it is.

How to tame a (poor) dragon in 1935

Today the Spotlight falls on inveterate traveler, Susan Cordery who co-founded the INC in 1988. Currently based in Portugal, Susan´s unflagging energy and inspiration has steered the Club to being the vibrant go-to hub for unique cultural events and meaningful international relationships that it is 38 years later.

Which places have made the biggest impact on you and why?
Mexico City was our first move abroad, and it’s where my first child was born. I fell in love with the indigenous cultures, the art, the architecture—I even took a course at the Museum of Anthropology, which I found fascinating. It was also where I first encountered the International Newcomers Club, an experience that stayed with me.

Madrid, of course, holds a different kind of significance. It gave me the opportunity to create a club that has helped so many people over the years. That has been both amazing and deeply gratifying.

Parrot talk in Mexico

Take us back 38 years—how did the idea begin?
The idea began to take shape in the Eurobuilding II Aparthotel, where we were living temporarily after arriving in Madrid in autumn 1987. I was 37, with three children and a dog.

I met Phyllis Davis at the school bus stop. She had just arrived from Venezuela, where they had a club similar to one I’d known in Mexico City. We assumed Madrid would have one too—but it didn’t.

We had endless questions about daily life and no resources to guide us. This was long before the internet or mobile phones. The clubs we’d belonged to elsewhere had provided both information and friendship, so starting one ourselves felt like a natural step.

Phyllis Davis centre

Did you imagine it would still exist today?
Not at all. I find it quite amazing that it’s still going strong.

What were the earliest meetings like?
They began as coffee mornings in private homes. The first, at my house, brought about 25 women—mostly American School mothers. By the second, that number had doubled and become more international.

We quickly outgrew living rooms and moved to a church hall, then a retirement centre, and eventually hotels. Meetings combined a social hour—with coffee we made ourselves and homemade cookies—with presentations on Spanish culture, food, wine, fashion, and more. I particularly remember Paradores de España and Loewe taking part. 

We welcomed fascinating guests: flamenco dancers, art historians, winemakers, even a bullfighter. Attendance at the meetings grew to 80–120 women and the membership oscillated around the 300+ mark. The buzz of conversation was unforgettable.

Friends from the start of INC to the present day

What challenges would surprise members today?
Communication! We produced a printed monthly newsletter and mailed it to every member. That meant regular gatherings just to stuff and stamp envelopes.

Why do women-led spaces still matter?
They foster collaboration and mutual support. Women naturally share experiences and encourage open communication—it’s something we recognize and seek wherever we go.

Susan's grand-daughter enjoys a festive INC coffee

What are you most proud of?
That the club still fulfils its original purpose: helping members enjoy a rich cross-cultural experience while building friendships and growing personally. The dedication of volunteers and the openness of members continue to make that possible.

Why do in-person communities still matter?
I can’t imagine a world without personal connection—a smile, a handshake, a hug. Those things are irreplaceable.

How has the club shaped your life in Madrid?
It made it my home.

Still travelling, this time in Sicily!

What talent do you wish you had?
I would have loved to be a writer—or an architect.

What would you love a member in 2045 to say?
“Thank goodness for this club!”

Today Japanese- born Yuko Furuya, a former art historian, librarian and translator talks to us about her life on a varied expat trail and the benefits of slow-paced tourism.

What was it like studying at a traditional girls’ boarding school in England?

It was quite a culture change for me at 13 and very different from Milan where we´d been living. Fortunately, the community spirit found in the boarding school “house” system provided a soft landing. I remember lots of strict rules and particularly the determination with which most people tried to break them! Plus endless hockey/lacrosse matches in the rain. Overall, it made me more independent and resilient. 

What did you most enjoy about your job as a curator in the museums of Tokyo?

In the mid 1990’s there were very few bilingual speakers with a degree in art history so there were lots of opportunities. We had to work very long hours but the fun we had as a team organising all those exhibitions and meeting the artists more than made up for it.

Pumpkin Festival in Indiana

What insights does culture give us on life in general?

I think culture forms an important part of your identity whether you decide to embrace it or rebel against it. It helps you understand why things are a certain way in one place and how it might differ elsewhere. I feel that the key is always trying to find a balance.

You´ve worked as a freelance translator from Japanese to English after having your daughter, what are the challenges of translating from two languages that are so semantically different?

Translating from Japanese to English can be challenging since the first-person pronoun is often omitted; singular and plural nouns are not distinguished; and there is a tendency to avoid expressing yourself directly so the conclusion can often be nuanced and appear unclear to say the least.

Street Art in Rio

What´s the strangest document you have ever had to translate?

Documents containing a lot of regularly used “Japanglish” words can sound funny to English speakers if they are not translated properly. Some examples include salaryman (works in an office), one room mansion (studio apartment), two shot (taking a photo together) and one chan[chance] maybe.

Both you and your husband are third culture children, as well as your daughter, how has that impacted on your upbringing and how have you managed to retain your Japanese identity?

We were both a rarity as Japanese expat children and it was hard fitting in when we returned to Japan.

However, I’ve consciously learned to develop my Japanese identity and it feels like I’m continuously adding new layers. For my daughter, it’s been easier to maintain a connection due to technology and I can also enrich her heritage with my own experiences.  

Sakura season in Tokyo

As a family you are keen explorers of different cities on foot without a fixed itinerary, what benefits have you enjoyed from this type of spontaneous tourism and discovery?

I think that the best discoveries are often found just wandering around and getting a feel of a neighbourhood. Sometimes it’s not the famous site that you remember the most, instead it can be a glimpse of a beautifully maintained inner courtyard in an old apartment building.

Kinkakuji in Kyoto

What is your secret Madrid?

When I first joined INC, a member introduced me to the Fundacion Juan March. That experience inspired me to explore other cultural foundations in Madrid and I’m always amazed at the high-quality art exhibitions, concerts, lectures available. And often they’re free! My main impetus for studying Spanish is so that I can better enjoy the Madrid cultural scene. 

How did you stay connected to the Japanese community in Rio?

Brazil has the largest population of Japanese descent outside of Japan but most of the Japanese-Brazilian community is located in Sao Paolo. There is a Japantown in Sao Paolo called Liberdade and we used to drive there (about five hours from Rio) every couple of months to stock up on Japanese food.  

Panoramic views of Rio

Has anything surprised you about Spain and its people?

I find the Spanish attitude towards drinking a pleasant surprise. The streets in Madrid are often crowded with people drinking in bars but there doesn’t seem to be a lot of binge-drinking or people getting extremely drunk. It appears to be very social and multi-generational.  

Canoeing in Indiana

How did you find life in the US after your brief stint in Mexico?

We lived in Carmel, a suburb in Indiana for four years. Until then, I’d only ever visited New York city as a tourist so the Midwest was a new experience for me. There was just miles and miles of open green space and farmland which seemed to continue forever. I once had the idea of walking to the nearest supermarket (seemed a short distance when driving) with my then one year old daughter in a stroller and it took 50 minutes!

In Japan there are some professions that don´t exist elsewhere, which is the most original one you can think of and what does it entail?

Resignation agencies in Japan offer a service whereby an employee can quit their job by hiring an agency to communicate their resignation to the employer and also carry out any necessary administrative tasks on their behalf. The market has been expanding since 2017 and is mainly used by young workers who want to avoid stressful situations related to the process of resigning or to escape from toxic work environments.

Name a book that has inspired you

It’s not a book but I found Kazuo Ishiguro’s 2017 Nobel Prize lecture inspiring

What´s the best advice you were given?

Time doesn’t stop for you. 

bE

Beaches and beans - you can´t go wrong

The Asturians are baying for blood, yet the jury has spoken and as of March last year, the Best Fabada in the World is in Madrid! The winners of last year´s competition was none other than the Mesón Sidrería Arturo in the Hortaleza area of our capital.

Originally run by Asturians, today the Mesón is in the hands of chef proprietor Carlos Guillermo García, a former pharmacist from Peru. Unable to find work in his previous profession, he was forced to take a cooking job to make ends meet. “I´d never even been near a saucepan in my life”, confesses García timidly. The original Asturian owners treated him like one of the family and passed on their secret recipe for their winning bean stew on their retirement in 2015 and García has been working his chemistry on it ever since..

Judging a beanfeast

For those of you unfamiliar with Spanish pulses, fabada is a slow-cooked white bean dish with various guises of pork. Ranging from morcilla (blood sausage), chorizo, tocino and pancetta (lard and bacon). Slightly similar to its French cousin, cassoulet, yet without the silky duck confit.  This is potent fare and the resultant gases when eaten in “fartura”, which ironically means abundance in Asturiano, and harnessed correctly could probably power the whole of Pozuelo.

On an icy cold day I am rather partial to a steaming bowl of fabada and on a recent trip to Asturias we had the pleasure of sampling a delicious variety at Casa Belén in Villaviciosa, just 20 minutes inland from the beautiful coastal town of Gijón. Asturians are known for their hearty appetite so the Menú del Día comprised an ample starter of Sopa de Ajo, alias a garlic and pimentón soup thickened with bread, a giant chalice of Fabada and then the other regional speciality: Cachopo (2 breaded veal fillets filled with melted cheese) & chips washed down with cider and Belén´s special natillas (custard) to follow, all for the paltry sum of €15. The Macdonalds Happy Meal with its meagre soggy burger and mass produced French Fries for the same price wouldn´t do very well in this area…..

Hearty fare

Funnily enough, if you´re looking for a quick fix, whilst not being a huge advocate of tinned food, the Litoral brand of ready-made fabada is surprisingly tasty and the giant catering can sizes of 5 portions have served up many a happy winter lunch to me and my 51 immediate in laws at the farm near Aranjuez where we got married. Think of it as gourmet Baked Beans with all the porky trimmings. It certainly takes pride of place as a Spanish storeroom staple and I´m hoping to get my hands on some of Jurgita´s prize Lithuanian chillies to perk up my next Asturian ration.

Storeroom standby

In the meantime we can learn a trick or two about the art of cider pouring and enjoy our beans at Casa Couzapín on 24^th February.

This month we talk to Los Angeles born, real estate/financing guru and legal and tax consultant for Spain with an MBA in Finance and Strategy and a fearless zest for life:

How is your service different than other real estate and relocation offerings?

 I offer strategic real estate and relocation services to expats (I like to emphasize the word strategic).  I provide guidance to expats that live here and those that live abroad that want to do things right and protect their assets.  I´ve worked here a long time and have an American mindset so I understand both parts of the equation.  I can add a lot of value to my client´s situations because I prompt questions that expats may not ask or think about, essentially acting as their spokesperson or confidante.

Stacy gives a talk at a Real Lives expat event

How do you help expats that live in Spain?

Often times I work with expats that have already found their apartment or house and are ready to buy it but need assistance in getting the best financing and/or proper legal representation.    As I have purchased several homes in Spain and was the Relocation Director at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Spain (a Warren Buffett company), I have a very strong network of real estate agents, banks, mortgage companies and lawyers that I work with and trust.   

  Do you also help expats that don’t have the time to find their own property or live abroad and want to relocate here?

Yes, I have a Spanish partner and together we act as a Buyer´s or Renter´s agent.  We do a thorough analysis of our client’s lifestyle and requirements and recommend properties and areas that fit the criteria so as to not waste time.  Once we find the properties that fit, we do a full due diligence on the property to minimize any risk for our client.

Showing a keen sense of aesthetics at the Miró Foundation 

  Where do you see the best deals today?

I see the best deals in boutique hotels, office buildings and commercial properties both in Madrid and outside because often times, these are assets that belong to sole proprietors, families or are inheritances and the owners want out without appreciating the gem they have.

On the residential side, there are fewer deals but you can still find some in Madrid, just outside the most hotly-demanded neighbourhoods.  These fringe areas still offer an opportunity to buy a property for a good price especially if you´re prepared to do renovation work.    

Enjoying Spanish countryside in La Vera

Is there a secondary market besides Idealista?

Yes! It´s quite common for good properties to be sold between agents or with a direct contact to the seller, before ever coming onto the market.   The real estate business here is still very unregulated with a lot of misinformation so you need to move with caution.  That being said, there are still a lot of opportunities out there.   

What is the one piece of advice you would give to someone who lives here or abroad that wants a change?

Start early and have a plan.  Moving to a new country is not easy and requires proper planning from both a real estate and legal and tax standpoint and everybody´s situation is unique.  If you are already live here and you are ready for a change, (whether its buying or financing a property), reach out to me first so I can help you save time, money and headaches. 

Family time with 89 year young Mom

What have you come to appreciate through your personal and professional life?

Savouring the here and now! Cracking open that bottle of champagne gathering dust on my shelf! Making time for the people I really love.

Finding the right home is an art,  like this one from Merry ceramics

What´s Stacy´s magic mantra?

If you are kind,  open to new people  and walk with gratitude, everything else takes care of itself. 

For a complimentary consultation, please email me at stacy@spainlifeplan.com

 https://www.spainlifeplan.com/

Tribute to Marie-Claude Tournier

Former happy times with Marie-Claude centre with Sarika to left and Hilary to right

We are deeply sad to report that Marie-Claude Tournier, a long term and much loved member of INC, passed away unexpectedly on 15^th November whilst on a visit to her native France.  As many of you will know, Marie-Claude was a firm fixture at many events with her sparkling blue eyes and sharp wit,  we will all miss her dearly. Our thoughts are with her husband, Miguel and her family and friends at this time. Details of the memorial mass to commemorate Marie-Claude´s life will be released shortly. Here are some of the messages of condolences and heartfelt memories that have been pouring into the Club. 

 

INC honours long term members - Marie-Claude (far right) stands out stylishly from the crowd

INC member, Hilary Bellis remembers Marie-Claude fondly: 

Marie-Claude (left) and Hilary Bellis enjoy some vintage INC memories

Dear Marie-Claude,

I am going to miss you. 

I will miss your quick sense of humour, your honesty, your stoicism, your generosity, and your love of cats. 

I will miss your enthusiasm for (almost) all things 'English' - the language ...  tea .... scones ..... clotted cream ..... Christmas Pudding ...... and English men! 

I will miss your 'Frenchness', your elegance, your style, your impeccable grooming, your expectation of very high standards, your hospitality, your delicious French food and your French champagne. I will miss your fabulousness. 

But most of all, I will miss your friendship. 

I will try my best to live up to your example. 

God bless you.

 Hilary xx ❤️

Marie-Claude cuts a dash with husband, Miguel

Eleanor Pojer, INC Past President  and Honorary President also paid tribute to our dear friend: 

I’m so sad to hear about Marie-Claude’s passing. She was such a treasure to INC, truly a class act who loved the club and gave so much of herself. I always enjoyed our conversations; she had such grace and warmth.

She will be terribly missed.

Brigitte de Cleer also had a personal farewell: 

I would love to say good bye to my dear friend, Marie- Claude.

She always said, my baby friend from Belgium, you are still young. And I answered, you are older but so young in spirit, a lovely face and with your personal, ironical sense of humour that I loved.

We laughed and cried together, we had lunch whenever and always in nice places, as I knew she loved that.

For me it was a pleasure to be her friend, miss her already a lot and I can' t understand why fortune  always takes those who are the best, it is so sad and unfair .

My heart is mourning  but her energy will be always with me.

Thanks, chère amie, je t' aime. Merci pour être mon amie.

Rest in peace,

Ton amie, Brigitte

Ana (above right) enjoys a fun moment with Miguel and Marie-Claude 

Today Susannah talks to Texan-born INC President, former web team supervisor and a lifetime volunteer in tax advice, robotics coaching and a food bank about the international hospitality she has encountered around the globe.

You met your husband when you were 21, are you a secret rebel or a woman of accurate long-term vision?

I smile at that question because, honestly, I was a bit of both—playful, rebellious, but also quietly certain when it mattered. Meeting him felt immediate, like I recognized my person the moment our paths crossed. If there was any “long-term vision,” it wasn’t a calculated plan—it was trusting that spark, leaning into curiosity, and knowing deep down that some connections are meant to last.

Childhood sweethearts

What do you wish you’d known at that time?
That life is full of chapters and it’s okay not to have it all figured out at once. I would tell my younger self to be patient with the journey, to recognize errors as part of the learning process, and to keep gratitude at the center of everything.

Double trouble

Do you have any stories about adapting to life here in Madrid?

Two weeks after moving to Madrid, I managed to fall into a tree hole in the sidewalk—shattering both wrists in the process. It was a dramatic introduction to navigating a new city! But in true Madrid fashion, strangers rushed to help. It was a painful lesson in humility—but also a hilarious reminder that even the hardest bumps in life are easier when you’re surrounded by a caring group.

Has anything surprised you about Spain and its people?
The generosity of time. People here make space for conversation, for community, for sitting together over coffee without rushing. That rhythm was a beautiful surprise—coming from places where speed is often celebrated, it taught me to slow down and savor life.

You have volunteered at several organisations, how has this enriched your life?
Volunteering has been one of the most grounding experiences of my life. It’s taught me that giving is not one-directional—it deepens empathy, expands your understanding of humanity, and fills you with gratitude.

Enjoying Spain with family

You’re a very professional and caring President of INC, what prompted your decision to take up the mantle?
 INC showed me warmth and belonging from the start. When the opportunity arose, I felt it was my turn to give back. It wasn’t about ambition but about service—carrying forward the spirit of connection and support that had meant so much to me.

Tiffany takes the standl

I’ve heard of the 5 am club but why do you get up even earlier? (talk about what you do and why at that time)
My early mornings have been a sanctuary. I rise before dawn to watch the city wake up—there’s a quiet beauty and calm in those hours that I can’t find later in the day. I walk the city wherever I am, sometimes reflecting, sometimes photographing the moment, almost always with music as my companion. 

You moved to Kuala Lumpur in 2019, how did you find that experience?

Our experience in Kuala Lumpur was made all the more meaningful because of the friends we made. Every interaction we had reflected genuine hospitality and made the city feel like home for our family.

Fun in Danang

How did Malaysia compare to Vietnam where you went afterwards?

When our family first moved to Kuala Lumpur in 2020, I thought I’d seen true hospitality—then we visited Happy Heart Café in Đà Nẵng, a place that employs deaf and disabled people and bakes all its pastries in-house. After a two-month COVID lockdown, we were welcomed like old friends and treated to the best apple pie I’ve ever had. What started as a simple lunch became laughter, shared stories, and the kind of connection that makes you feel instantly at home. It reminded me that living abroad isn’t just about new places—it’s about communities that open their doors and happy hearts.

Eleanor, Malin and Tiffany - INC presidents past and present

What does the spirit of INC mean to you?

The spirit of INC is about genuine connection—welcoming others, sharing cultures, and supporting each other through challenges and celebrations. It’s a warm, inclusive space where we learn from one another, laugh together, and show up as our authentic selves, knowing that by learning and growing together, we create connections that enrich everyone’s lives.

The masks have it at Versailles

What is it about old movies that attracts you? Which is your favorite and why?
Thanks to my husband I have come to cherish old movies for their sharp dialogue and peek into a bygone era. I particularly love The Thin Man (1938) which portrays the crime solving, martini drinking, sophisticated duo of Nick and Nora Charles and their dog, Asta.

What would be the name of the autobiography you haven’t written yet?
If You Don’t Like the View, Change the Seat

Travelling light when moving to KL!

Today we talk to Florencia Ugalde, a Mexican-born teacher, coach, mentor and bookworm about her journey through North, Central and South America and her life-long passion for learning, her appreciation of local customs and a certain green vegetable. 

How did you find settling in Austin Texas as a newly-wed 25 year-old from Mexico City?

This was such an exciting time for us to move overseas and Austin is such a fun and dynamic city! My husband was finishing his Master´s and I discovered Montessori education which was a true epiphany moment. It was a real professional, spiritual and also emotional game changer.

Typical Montessori classroom

What is it about Montessori education that you admire?

I love that it’s person-centric and based on principles of connection, respect, support and observation. It’s more of a way of life than an educational program; providing purpose from the teacher´s perspective and a meaningful learning and development journey for all ages. The same Montessori principles can be applied to coaching adults and also to the elderly as well as people with dementia.  

You lived for several years in Buenos Aires, what was that like for you and your family, coming from the opposite end of Latin America?

Ahhhh, Buenos Aires… the core of my heart forever.  The most joyous time in my life without a doubt. .  It was amazing to soak up a very different culture, to adapt to a new way of speaking Spanish, and experiencing life. The Argentines welcomed us from day one and we slotted right in. In fact, one of our sons went on to take Argentine citizenship and the other still uses all the Argentine slang like ”vos, mirá, vení, tampoco la pavada!”

Family dinner in Buenos Aires

As an avid book lover, what sort of books do you most enjoy reading?

I like any fiction or historical fiction that moves me and makes me think, even if I have to stop reading to recover or reflect. Books that have had a particular impact on me include: People of The Book, Lovely Bones, Memory Stones, as well as other titles that speak to my passion for history and art. I have found book clubs are a great introduction to non-fiction and other authors. Such fun to be “stretched”!

What book do you most recommend to others?

 Isabel Allende´s La Casa de los Espíritus (The House of Spirits) because I love how the magical realism in it belies a story of love, betrayal, redemption and the power of love.

Florencia gets certified

You´re a passionate Montessori Coach for teachers, what did you find most challenging about that role?

At first it was hard coaching and mentoring peers but with the right dose of diplomacy, patience and humility I think I managed to gain their trust so in the end we worked together in harmony. It was very fulfilling to see their individual growth, as well as my own.

Coffee Highlands in Cobán

How did it feel as a Mexican to live in your mother´s homeland of Guatemala for two years in 2010?

That was actually a dream come true!  I grew up in Mexico yet my mother infused us with a love for Guatemalan arts, crafts and food. This posting really brought to life all my childhood memories of the local flowers like the orchids and the animals such as the quetzle birds as well as the iconic settings of volcanoes and lakes and I have really developed a lasting passion for anything Mayan, especially textiles and huipiles (traditional blouse or tunic).  It was very special to be able to show my own family my grandfather´s coffee farm, in the highlands near Cobán, where my mother grew up.  So we are forever grateful for this unexpected opportunity to connect with my mother´s heritage.

El Pimiento Verde´s irresistible artichokes

What is your secret Madrid?

I LOVE eating artichokes at Pimiento Verde!! I also really recommend the Cafetería at the French Institute, a real find!

Day of the Dead display at Casa de México

What are the origins of the Day of the Dead and why is it such a key festival in Mexico?  

The Day of the Dead in Mexico is a Pre-Colombian ritualistic celebration represented by a colorful Altar or “Ofrenda” at home to honor our deceased loved ones who are believed to return to visit the living in a ceremony of gratitude, love and joy.

I only embraced this tradition two years ago, after visiting the Altars at Casa de México en España, and realizing the value and significance of my roots.  I have sadly lost loved ones these past years, and it has been very comforting for me to focus on the celebration of their lives and our connections by opening my home and heart to our spiritual reunion.  

Loved ones remembered

Now that you have retired what activities have you taken up and why?

I love to keep learning! My current plans include a Montessori program for dementia to improve quality of life in old people´s homes and another for Special Educational Needs.

For now, I´m enjoying going to the gym, meditation, cinema, long walks in preparation for El Camino and I LOVE the INC activities.

TEN YEARS AT INC

Susannah is still savouring nuggets of good conversation

This month marks a decade since I joined INC. Ten years ago, I wandered around clusters of animated women, chatting nineteen to the dozen in the shady patio at Palacio Fortuny. Brigitte (our VP at the time), like our current VP´s, Ale and Candice, knew that during the first Monthly Meeting of the INC year members wanted to regroup over a delicious coffee and quality croissants (4 mini croissants equal one regular-sized one, right??). And that´s exactly what we did last Friday, in a stunning setting opposite the shimmering Lago.

Conversation flowing easily at our first Monthly Meeting of the season

Except ten years later, as I floated round the room with my antennae on full alert, I noticed that the conversation topics were far more diverse and so were the accents…both reflecting our ever-widening spectrum of nationalities amongst our members. So this year I participated in discussions about the UN in Switzerland, cycling in Holland, free camping in Medellín, an expat club in Sarajevo, nursing in Copenhagen, Michelin star restaurants in Queenstown or books to scare you (Kristen – if I need a Valium to finish it you´ll be the first to know…). Not to mention our Spanish members who provide valuable insight on the “real deal” here lest we end up in a tourist trap, plus insight into the flip side of being an expat in places where we are locals.

Ale and Candice nail it at our first MM of the season, Brigitte, Tiffany and Roz to their right

Every time I join an INC event I have absolutely no idea which direction the conversation is going to go. Yet, unlike the M30 tunnel which can go any way, except the way you want to take, I always leave enriched by some interesting titbit of information either about Spain or about the hidden lives of our varied members. This always makes for a fascinating experience, especially for a nosy person like me.

A chatty Monthly Meeting at Palacio Fortuny from the archive

International conversations and meaningful connections with people who have lived multi-faceted lives are what makes me tick. I crave it. It´s possibly the antidote to my annual holidays in the frozen wilds of Northern Scotland which I loved at the time but to which I´d have preferred to have added the odd trip to a warm sea that didn´t turn your legs blue. My parents were very astute and used to leave us in wellington boots with both grandmothers while they gallivanted off to sample garlic prawns in far-flung places such as Morocco or France. I have been tempted to do the same with my own offspring but as they´re now becoming half civilised I´ve probably left it a bit late.

Ondarreta´s iconic carpas (changing tents)

This summer, our children were certainly with us in the car up to San Sebastián, but once we arrived they were soon lost among the other Madrid-on-Sea families in Ondarreta where my mother-in-law has a house. As I prefer to remain on good terms with my in- laws (my husband is one of eight) we rent our own apartment. This particular model of Spanish holiday is quite a common one here and reminds me of other family holidays in Cornwall, South West England. You ditch your perfectly decent primary residence for a student-style hovel near the beach where you then get sucked into conversation en masse with 80 other families who also live in the same city as yourself. Those who haven´t rented a musty apartment with only four forks, squeeze in miraculously like sardines in bunk beds into their family´s apartment, or worse still, their in laws’ summer residence, and play “happy families” for a fortnight dining off the same Mercadona delicacies as in Madrid.

Scottish weather in San Sebastián

However, there are plenty of advantages to this holiday model. With any luck María (there´s always one) will have set up a marvellous what´s app group in which you state your child´s birth year and then someone will arrange a full social and sports calendar for the entire fortnight for that cohort. Leaving you free to catch up on a year´s reading. Except you won´t be able to read a word on the beach because every time you open your book you will be inundated by fellow Madrileños asking you “Hola, when did you arrive, how long are you here for, are you staying in the same cramped place as last year?”

Busted for reading at the races, although better caught with a book than a phone in my book

That is why I occasionally camouflage myself on another section of beach and devour an entire book in one sitting! Fortunately, when night falls, with any luck, your cherubs will be entertained at María’s with Mcburgers and a few rounds of Mus, the de rigueur card game, leaving you free to hit the city´s best pincho bars with your spouse. Whilst enjoying a decent conversation in peace. So I suppose some holidays en masse do have their pros…..

A work of art or a pincho?

Today we speak to the artistically talented Lisi Fracchia, a former Argentine headmistress who retrained to become a leading international jewellery designer. Her clients span Royals, celebrities and plenty of INC members! An active board member of the Instituto Gemológico Español, Lisi promotes gemmology all over Latin America. Her creations are a frequent fixture in Vogue, Elle, Hola and on many TV programmes. She is also a regular at all the key international jewellery fairs and has won many awards.  In addition, Lisi is also both a peer and mentor for many designers and has even translated 5 books on gems from Portuguese to Spanish and English.  Whether you’re Queen Letizia or Susannah Grant….we can all own some of Lisi´s magic. Recently returned from dressing celebrities at the Venice Carnival, Lisi tells us how INC launched her sparkling career!

What skills as a previous head mistress of a bilingual school in a Patagonia did you find useful as a jewellery designer?

Quite a few!  Leadership and organizational abilities are crucial in managing a design studio and dealing with artisans and clients. Additionally, educational settings foster creativity and adaptability; essential qualities in innovative jewellery design.​ My penchant for drawing meant I was often asked to design all the posters for school events!

Lisi has a keen eye

Why did you decide to study a second degree at the Gemmology Institute in Madrid on your return from living in Brazil?

I really wanted to pursue my passion for gemstones and become qualified in that field from a reputable organisation. Their flexibility in allowing toddler daughter to attend lectures with me meant I could combine motherhood with my professional career.  

How did INC kickstart your career?

The International Newcomers Club (INC) played a pivotal role in launching my career by providing a supportive network and a platform to showcase my designs. The connections and friendships formed within the INC community opened doors to collaborations and opportunities that significantly boosted my career.  I will always be grateful to INC from the bottom of my heart for this.

Eyecatching designs

What is a typical week for you?

A typical week, month…haha is dynamic and multifaceted. It involves designing new pieces, sourcing high-quality gemstones, and liaising with clients to create bespoke jewellery. I also dedicate time to mentoring emerging designers and participating in fashion shows, meetings at the Gemmological Institute or visiting fairs around the world. Plus, I also dedicate time to the business aspect of my bran to maintain smooth operations.

How did it feel to be voted the no. 5 Ambassador for Argentina, just after football heroes like Messi or the model Valeria Mazza?

Following icons like Messi and Valeria Mazza, is an immense honor. It reflects the global appreciation of Argentine talent beyond traditional fields and highlights the cultural significance of jewellery design.

Lisi’s designs are present at many award ceremonies

What part of your job do you enjoy the most?

The most rewarding aspect is the creative process—transforming raw gemstones into pieces that resonate with clients’ emotions and stories. Witnessing the joy and confidence that a bespoke piece brings to someone is truly fulfilling and of course looking seeking out my beautiful gemstones babies…haha

Which pieces are you most proud of?

I take immense pride in the pieces worn by royalty, such as the bespoke earrings that Queen Letizia wore during her state visit to the USA. Or the Argentina- shaped bracelet chosen by Queen Máxima and the brooch made for Queen Sofía with aquamarines, tanzanites and a 45ct sphalerite in 18K yellow gold.

It´s also a huge honour to have made the pieces for Spanish TV celebrity, Anne Igartiburu that she wore for the New Year´s Eve broadcast with Anna Obregon. These creations not only showcase intricate design but also symbolize the trust and recognition bestowed upon my work.​

Queen Letizia wears earrings in 18K yellow matt gold with sphalerites, tsavorites and opals

Do you have different pricing tiers?

Yes, I offer a range of pricing tiers to accommodate diverse clientele. From high-end bespoke pieces featuring rare gemstones to more accessible designs, each creation maintains the brand’s commitment to quality and artistry.​ Starting at 25 euros.

Which stones do you most like to work with?

I have a particular affinity for working with unique and lesser-known gemstones, such as sphalerite, heliodore, tanzanite and morganite. Their distinct colors and properties provide endless inspiration and allow for truly one-of-a-kind designs.

Queen Máxima of Holland wears a silver and 18k gold bracelet from her birth country

What has been the biggest highlight of your career to date?

Awards are a great endorsement of my craftmanship and dedication. I´m particularly proud of the Iberdesigner Award in Madrid in 2014, the Orion Star Award in London in 2020 and the In flux Award in 2022 in Milan and the Global Icon award in 2023 in Dubai.

What or who has most inspired you?

People – their resilience or unique stories and nature itself is always a constant source of inspiration.

And nature’s inherent beauty is a constant source of inspiration.

Lisi’s signature elegance

INC is full of entrepreneurs, what advice would you give them?

Embrace resilience and adaptability. Learn different languages. Keep learning! And never lose sight of your passion!

You are a credit to the industry, what´s next for Lisi Fracchia jewellery?

The future holds exciting prospects, including expanding into new markets and exploring collaborations that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Continued innovation and a commitment to excellence remain at the forefront of the brand’s evolution. We´re always looking forwards!

Actress Laura Ramos from Entrevías TV series