Paula, you built a successful career in bustling Hollywood, and now you’ve settled in Marbella, surrounded by calm and elegance. Villa El Martinete is often referred to as a “miniature Alhambra.” How do you experience its cultural and historical legacy in your everyday life?
Absolutely. Living at Villa El Martinete feels like being embraced by history every single day. The architecture, with its intricate Moorish influences and tranquil courtyards, serves as a constant reminder of Andalusia’s rich heritage. It’s more than just visual beauty — it’s a daily immersion in art and reflection. After the relentless pace of Hollywood, this place grounds me.
I feel connected to something timeless, where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony.
What makes it even more special is its location by the sea. There’s something deeply calming and powerful about waking up to the sound of the waves — it brings a natural rhythm to life that is both soothing and inspiring. And of course, the villa itself has a unique legacy. With its ties to old Hollywood glamour and even royalty, it feels as though every corner holds a story. It’s not merely a house — it’s a sanctuary where history, beauty, and serenity converge.
What places in Marbella do you consider hidden gems that everyone should discover?
There are so many enchanting corners of Marbella that often go unnoticed by the typical visitor. One of my favourites is the Old Town — Casco Antiguo. It’s like stepping into another time, with its narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed façades, and charming family-run cafés tucked away in flower-filled squares.
The Marbella Club is another treasure. While it’s not exactly hidden, its timeless elegance and understated charm make it feel like a world unto itself — steeped in history, yet always welcoming. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet lunch in the garden or strolling through its grounds, the magic of the place never fades.
If you’re up for a day trip, Bolonia Beach is an absolute must. It’s a little farther out, but worth every moment. The beach is wild and unspoilt, with ancient Roman ruins just steps from the shore. It’s one of those rare places where nature and history exist side by side in breathtaking harmony.And if you venture into the nearby hills, villages like Ojén and Istán offer spectacular views, authentic Andalusian cuisine, and a deep sense of cultural identity. These places may not feature on the cover of glossy travel magazines, but they truly capture the soul of Marbella.
You’re a well-known figure in fashion, culture, and haute cuisine, yet you’ve mentioned you dislike the term “influencer.” How do you define your role in today’s digital landscape? What does the phrase “Learn to define your own definition of everything” mean to you, and how is it reflected in your life and work?
I’ve never really resonated with the term “influencer” in the conventional sense. I see what I do more as sharing — sharing the things that have genuinely shaped me. Whether it’s travel, food, fashion, or culture, I speak about what has inspired me, what continues to move me, and why it matters. My hope is that by sharing my experiences, others might feel encouraged to explore, discover new perspectives, and find beauty in unexpected places.
When I say, “Learn to define your own definition of everything,” I mean embracing the uniqueness of one’s own path. What inspires or moves me might touch someone else differently — and that’s the beauty of it. We each view life through a lens shaped by our background, values, and defining moments. That lens evolves with time, with experience, and with growth.
The real magic begins when we stop trying to conform to someone else’s definition and start honouring our own. That’s where authenticity lies, and that’s what I strive to convey through all that I do.
How has your experience in the film industry influenced your approach to creating content that resonates with a wider audience?
My time in the film industry profoundly shaped the way I think about content.
In film, everything revolves around storytelling — how to forge an emotional connection, how to craft something that is deeply personal yet universally relatable. That mindset continues to influence everything I create today.
Whether I’m sharing a photograph, a recommendation, or a personal reflection, I always consider the narrative behind it: What does this mean? Why might it resonate with someone else?
Film also instilled in me a keen sensitivity to aesthetics, timing, and intention — every detail must have a purpose. But above all, it taught me empathy. To connect with a broad audience, one must understand and respect different perspectives. I keep that at the core of my work. The goal isn’t just to be seen — it’s to offer something that others can feel, relate to, and carry with them.
What upcoming projects or initiatives are you planning to support the local community and promote cultural values we should know about?
One of my deepest passions at the moment is spotlighting the golden era of Marbella — an era defined by elegance, charm, and cultural richness. I want to celebrate that legacy and help preserve it, not simply by looking back, but by drawing attention to what continues to make Marbella extraordinary today.
While the glamour is certainly part of its allure, there’s another side that I find even more beautiful: the authenticity of daily life. The fishermen heading out before dawn, local families who’ve been here for generations, the joy of sharing fresh seafood with friends, and the inclusive warmth of a culture that cherishes every generation. Marbella is more than a playground for the elite — it’s a living, breathing community.
For me, happiness isn’t about extravagance or perfection. It’s about connection, shared values, and appreciating a slower, more meaningful rhythm. That’s the spirit I hope to convey through my content, collaborations, and future endeavours.
I’m currently exploring ways to support local artisans and small businesses, as well as cultural projects that safeguard traditional Andalusian architecture and heritage. I want to collaborate with others who are equally passionate about protecting Marbella’s unique soul — so that it isn’t eclipsed by generic luxury developments or soulless modernity.
We must protect the heart of this place. That means amplifying its stories, uplifting its people, and ensuring that progress doesn’t come at the expense of authenticity. My aim is to help build a future where culture and community are not just respected, but joyfully celebrated.
Model: @paulainmarbella
Photography and art direction:@bondliden
Clothing: @johannaortizofficial
Hair: @salonmaher
Makeup: @charlottetilbury