Marbella 2.0: It is what it is

Have you ever felt like you’re fighting a losing battle? Well, that’s what I’m feeling lately when I see the changes in our city.

At no time have I ever envisioned Marbella to be the new Miami, nor have I ever wanted it to be, however this does seem to be the objective of many a new arrival.

Investors come with new expectations and I’m not sure that I’m sharing the same vision as lately the words Marbella 2.0 and “the new Miami” are being brandished far too often for my liking.

“Mi Marbella”, my Marbella, is cute and quaint and historically we promote our Andalucian charm, five star luxury, Mediterranean peace and elegance, our climate, gastronomy, golf, nature and quality of life rather than a fast paced business hub. It’s our home.

Since I moved back full-time 14 years ago and have been involved with the media I have done my upmost to encourage us foreigners to foster a community spirit and to be more connected with our town hall; to take pride in the city we call home.

Nowadays it’s hard for us “mere mortals” to find a home we can afford as our city is increasingly promoted to large, international investors.  While some see it as a symbol of Marbella’s growing prosperity, international prestige and luxury appeal, others fear it represents a loss of the town’s human scale, local culture and authentic Mediterranean identity and potentially, our ability to even live here.  The world is changing so fast; I do so hope we can all keep up.

I suppose we shall just have to wait and see what we shall see.