Costa Blanca North 13 – 19 March 2025 Issue 2071

Costa Blanca North - Issue No. 2071

World’s Best Getaway

THE Costa Blanca is home to many beautiful destinations, and one of the standout hotels in the region has just earned an impressive spot on TUI’s list of the 100 best hotels in the world for 2025.

Hotel Don Pancho, located in Benidorm, is the only hotel in the Valencian Community to make the prestigious list and is one of just five hotels from mainland Spain to be included.

TUI, a global leader in tourism, based its ranking on real guest feedback and ratings. Of the 100 best hotels worldwide, 25 are in Spain, but Hotel Don Pancho is notable for being among the select group on the Spanish mainland.

The Hotel’s Marketing Director Luisa Soler expressed her pride: “This award reflects the hard work

We’re

Valencian

Costa Blanca North • Issue No. 2071 • 13 -

The Costa Blanca is home to one of the best hotels in the world.

Women work wonders No-fly zone

IN honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, women demonstrated their resilience and strength in the Marina Alta area. Despite facing challenges such as flood warnings, travel disruptions, health issues, ongoing schedule adjustments, and even a lost dog, the dedicated members of the European Union of Women Marina Alta (EUWMA) made their presence known on this significant day for women everywhere.

In doing so, they witnessed a strong show of support from local town halls and councillors from Benitachell, Javea, and Teulada Moraira, whose involvement significantly contributed to the sense of community and purpose throughout all the events.

During the celebrations, the talented team of linguists from EUW-

MA read manifestos in multiple languages, including English, Valenciano, Castellano, and Arabic, ensuring that messages of empower -

ment were understood by as many people as possible. The EUWMA thanks everyone who attended any of their meetings, proclamations, exercise

classes, lectures, or workshops.

Their journey towards striving for true equality, freedom from violence and respect and understanding continues. They invite anyone interested in learning more to attend one of their monthly meetings or events. Further information is available via their website https://euwmarinaalta.org. Alternatively, they can be contacted via email at euwmarinaalta@gmail.com

DRONE flights over all protected natural areas in the Valencian Community have now been banned. This includes natural parks, municipal nature sites, protected landscapes, and designated wetlands. Drones will only be

allowed for surveillance, emergency response, and professional or technical work, all of which require prior authorisation.

Alicante has nine natural parks, Serra Mariola, Font Roja, Marjal de Pego-Oliva, Montgó, Penyal d’Ifac, Serra Gelada, Salinas de Santa Pola, El Hondo, and Lagunas de la Mata-Torrevieja, along with numerous other protected areas, reservoirs, and rivers. The goal of the ban is to prevent disruption to local wildlife, particularly birds.

While drone use already requires permits in many cases based on weight, altitude, and location, this resolution specifically prohibits private and recreational flights in all protected areas. Some natural parks had already restricted air navigation, remote-controlled aircraft, and aeromodelling. However, many older management plans did not account for drone use, as it was not common at the time of their approval.

Javea town hall members gather with EUWMA and Madres Poderosas

Your rights as a patient in Spain

SPAIN has arguably some of the strongest patient protection laws in Europe, but perhaps they’re not always as ‘advertised’ as they should be. In this guide, we will look at the main patient rights, so you can approach real-world situations in Spain with confidence and peace of mind.

Every patient in Spain has the right to be informed about their health, treatment options, and risks. If you don’t understand the jargon, your doctor must explain it in a way that makes sense. Fancy a second opinion? You’re entitled to that too.

Your medical history isn’t a secret file locked away in a hospital basement - it’s yours to access. Whether on paper or online, you can request a copy of your records.

No procedure, no test, no treatment should be done without your permission - except in emergencies. This is what’s called informed consent. In most cases, this is verbal, but for surgery and risky procedures, you’ll need to sign a consent form.

Spanish law is clear: your medical data is strictly confidential. No one - not employers, not insurance companies, not even family - can access your records without your consent. The only exceptions? If there’s a public health risk (like a contagious disease) or a legal requirement.

If something goes wrong, you have the right to demand accountability. This means you can file a formal complaint if you feel mistreated, neglected, or if a medical error has occurred. Hospitals and clinics must provide you with a complaint form, but if you’re not satisfied with their response, you can escalate it to the regional health authority or the Defensor del Pueblo (Ombudsman). Legal action? It’s an option too - but hopefully, you won’t need it.

Banks slash instant transfers

THE European Parliament introduced new instant transfer regulations on January 9, 2024, aiming to revolutionise the banking sector by ensuring near-instantaneous transactions - processed within 10 seconds, 24/7 - at no additional cost. This initiative sought to eliminate excessive fees, which in some cases reached up to €12 per transaction.

The European Payments Council had previously increased the maximum transfer limit from €15,000 to €100,000 in July 2020. However, despite these regulatory advancements, the reality of instant transfers remains far from the seamless, unrestricted system consumers anticipated.

According to the financial comparison platform HelpMyCash.com, Spanish banks have imposed stringent limitations on instant transfers. While some banks permit transfers up to €15,000 - such as Abanca, Banco Sabadell, Banco Santander, and B100 - others have drastically reduced these limits:

Cetelem: Maximum €10,000 per transfer, with a daily limit of €30,000.

Openban: Capped at €6,000 per transfer and per day.

Deutsche Bank: €6,000 per transfer, with a daily limit of €25,000.

Evo Banco: A daily limit of €3,000, subject to further reductions for ‘security reasons.’

Bankinter & BBVA: Among the most restrictive, limiting each transfer to €1,000, with a €5,000 daily cap.

BBVA: an even stricter cap of €900 per transaction.

Ibercaja: The most restrictive of all, permitting €500 per day in instant transfers.

Pibank: instant transfers up to €50,000 per day, a rare exception.

The significant reduction in transaction limits has drawn criticism, with many customers questioning the effectiveness of the new regulations.

Shared bank account warning: Spain’s housing solution

SHARED bank accounts are a convenient solution for managing family finances. Yet, they carry tax implications that could lead to unforeseen complications with the Spanish Tax Agency, Hacienda.

Hacienda recently issued an update regarding the use of shared bank accounts.

The Bank of Spain

Individuals who use joint accounts or give others access to their savings should be informed of the potential tax consequences.

tax warning: The must-read guide to shared bank accounts in Spain - and how to avoid surprise taxes.

says, “Accounts can have one or multiple holders. If ownership is shared with another individual, the contract must explicitly state the funds’ access terms.” A joint bank account allows all account holders to make deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and payments. However, improper handling of such accounts may result in complications.

Hacienda does not automatically assume that funds in a shared account transfer ownership simply because multiple names appear on the account. However, tax authorities closely monitor unusual activity. Irregular transfers or consistent with-

drawals by one party without corresponding deposits may raise red flags.

Financial institutions, such as ING Spain, caution that joint holders are legally entitled to a share of the account’s funds. Each holder must report any interest accrued in their tax returns. In contrast, an authorised user can operate the account without claiming ownership of the funds, meaning they are not necessarily liable for tax obligations associated with the account. Nevertheless, Hacienda remains vigilant in identifying any suspicious activity.

Individuals should ensure their financial arrangements comply with Spanish tax regulations and seek professional advice.

PREFABRICATED homes are emerging as a pivotal solution to Spain’s ongoing housing crisis, offering a rapid and cost-effective alternative to traditional construction. No longer limited to essential structures, modern prefab homes are fully equipped, factory-built residences that can be assembled on-site in a significantly shorter timeframe. Industry analysts project that by 2030, nearly 40 per cent of new homes in Spain could be prefabricated. Escalating property prices and protracted construction timelines in urban centres have prompted many prospective homeowners to explore alternative housing options. Prefabricated homes, which can be completed in weeks rather than months or years, present a solution for those prioritising efficiency and affordability.

Customisation is a key advantage of prefabricated housing. These homes can be designed to incorporate expansive windows, open-plan layouts, and multi-storey configurations, enabling buyers to tailor their living spaces to their preferences. Many prefabricated homes use eco-friendly materials and feature high-quality insulation, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative.

A notable trend is the increasing popularity of container homes. Constructed from repurposed shipping containers, these provide an environmentally responsible and budget-friendly option. Quick to assemble and growing in popularity, container homes attract individuals seeking an affordable and sustainable lifestyle.

Your rights as a patient in Spain: What every foreign resident needs to know.

Credit: Shutterstock, MillaF

Gandia at ITB Berlin Villajoyosa car rally

VILLAJOYOSA has organised the second Pujada La Vila Joyiosa, a car rally for the Mountain Championship of the Valencian Community.

There will be over 30 participating vehicles lea-

ving the starting point on Friday, March 14 from the Avenida de la Antoneta. The event is organised by the Club de Automovilismo La Vila in collaboration with the town’s Department of Sport. Administra-

tive checks will take place before the night before the race begins as well as a brie ng by the Director and orgnaisers of the race from 8pm. On Saturday March 15 the race will begin, starting at 9am from point 22.750km of the CV770, in Tudons Port, for heats will be held. Two will be training heats and two will be racing heats. The race’s nishing point will

GANDIA set up a stall at the world’s largest tourism fair, the ITB Berlin 2025. They visited the fair between March 4 and March 6 with the aim of charming the tourists who flocked there.

There was a Valencia Community pavilion built in the ITB space which showcased why Gandia is a landmark tourism destination, it

idyllic beaches and unique nature, the history and culture of the town and the innumerable leisure experiences that tourists could engage in

They invited German and European tourists at the Berlin based event to “Discover Gandia, a vibrant destination that is

committed to responsible and quality tourism.”

The Tourism Department of Gandia send representatives to have strategic meetings with major travel agencies and businesses that offer tours internationally. Those meetings included big names like Tui Travel and EasyJet Holidays.

Photo Credit: www.gandia.es

Photo Credit: Facebook Villajoyosa Ayuntamiento

IN a move toward inclusivity, around 150 of the Fallas monuments have been adapted for the enjoyment of the deaf within the Valencian Community. This initiative has been made possible thanks to a collaboration with the Federation of Deaf People of the Valencian Community (FESORD CV).

Working with the Fallera Inclusion Association

Inclusive Language

and the General Directorate for People with Disabilities from the Valencia Town Council, the FESORD CV has successfully implemented a new approach to ensure that the deaf can also fully enjoy this cultural tradition. Taking advantage of

modern technology, the monuments feature a QR code, which, when scanned, leads visitors to a video in sign language. Here, information about the individual monument can be gleaned, including its unique characteristics, comedic elements,

Men’s health awareness challenge

CANCER CARE JAVEA have started their March Men’s Health Campaign.

It follows a group of 12 men completing di erent health challenges, they include cutting out alcohol or cigarettes, a couch to 5km run and learning how to do the splits. The plan is to take on the challenges to better their health, but also to bring awareness to men’s health issues and to get men talking about health problems. Cancer Care Javea said “Why don’t men go to the doctor? Simple. We’re invincible. At least, that’s what we tell ourselves until we’re Googling: chest pain or just gas? at 2am.”

For men, they say there is a real fear of going to the doctors and having awkward conversations, a fear that can lead to serious health complications.

The charity said the “if I ignore it, it will go away” mentality doesn’t work. Asking for help does not make men weak. Cancer Care Javea said “here’s the truth: Going to the doctor doesn’t make you less of a man—it keeps you

around longer to be a man. So, book that appointment. Your future self (and your loved ones) will thank you.”

You can sponsor the men making positive health changes and promoting awareness via Bizum to the number: 613 16 57 94 or visit their donation funding page on gogetfunding.com- men’s health campaign March 2025

and the messages the Falla is intended to convey.

The project incorporates many of the more popular Fallas, including the large installations in the Special Section. For example, those created by Convento Jerusalen and Na Jordana, as well as smaller commissions like Jesus and Els Doctors.

The president of FESORD CV, Carolina Galiana stressed that it is “fundamental” that other festivals in other towns follow the example of the

Fallas and “make their celebrations accessible to deaf people”.

“Only in this way will we achieve a more inclu-

sive society where everyone, regardless of their ability, can enjoy the cultural richness of our traditions,” she added.

Fallas monuments linked to sign language via a QR Code

Men’s health awareness challenge

Late but great Andalusian Day party

EL CAMPELLO’S Andalusian community celebrated its regional day with songs, dances and praises to the land where they live on March 9. They sang: “I have the Alicante soul, and I don’t want to change it…I live in Alicante, and here is my Andalucia.” The cultural association attached to the event, Amigos Rocieros de El Campello sang the phrases as part of their

Andalusian day celebrations.

The celebrations usually take place on February 28 but due to work commitments the group had to push back the date to March 9.

The Mayor of El Campello Juan Jose Berenguer Alcobendas and a large group of councillors joined the people of Andalusia at their party, where guitars were played, traditional dresses and clothes were worn and songs were sung.

The pictures of the party on the Town Hall website and Facebook are phenomenal examples of the beauty of traditional Andalusian dress. Women of all ages stand in colourful polka dots or floral dresses with tiered skirts. They accessorised their hair with beautiful flower arrangements and wore traditional shawls.

The Mayor, was asked to give a short speech and said to enjoy the good times with friends singing and listening to music as they leave us with “such pleasant memories”.

Father’s Day campaign

ACADE or the association of merchants of Denia along with the Department of Commerce have created a commercial campaign for Spanish Father’s Day to promote gifts.

It is hoped that there will be a revitalisation for commercial businesses in Denia as a result of the campaign which will run between March 10 and March 19, when Spanish Father’s Day takes place.

The campaign shows that a local business can cater to whatever gift works best for a person’s father and that they don’t have to turn to online shopping, then pay extra for shipping costs. It says the initiative

helps families to find a gift “without waiting or shipping and with personalized advice that will help each customer to find the ideal gift”.

The campaign celebrates the diversity of the families that live in

the area.

The posters for the campaign will be hung up in various establishments taking part in the initiative and will be promoted on Instagram via ACADE’s profile. The promotional material will encourage shoppers to find the perfect gift for any father, as local businesses cater to dads of all different personalities. It has also been emphasised by representatives of ACADE shopping for a loved one is a familial experience that enhances bonds as part of a leisure activity.

Customers who shop in associated stores during the period will be gifted a fridge magnet.

Photo Credit Facebook

El Campello Ajuntament

Photo Credit: Ayuntamiento de Denia

Broad bean workshops

BENITACHELL has created a series of workshops to help promote the local growth of its famous broad beans.

There is a festival devoted to the vegetable, Mitjafava Fest and the residents are known for growing them, they are trying to have the bean officially categorised as an autochthonous varietysomething native just to their area. Which the town hall say would protect the vegetable and ensure its continued use in agriculture locally: if “fava poblera (broad bean in town) was in the catalogue of autochthonous varieties it would guarantee its protection and promote its cultivation in the region.”

And so, in keeping with its local agricultural and gastronomic importance the humble Benitachell broad bean is now the focus of practical workshops, organised by

the town hall. Councillor of Agriculture, Javi Cabrera, said ‘this joint effort between institutions, farmers and the community is a key step towards preserving the agricultural identity of our town and revaluing a product that is part of our gastronomic and historical culture’

The initiative has been a valuable collection point of knowledge and according to the town hall “brought to-

gether farmers, technicians and locals interested in recovering and promoting the cultivation of this legume, which is so deeply rooted in our town.”

The course participants it says are learning essential techniques for broad bean cultivation, from soil preparation to harvesting, thus promoting a sustainable production model that respects the environment.

Artist submissions welcome

ARTISTS still have a little time to enter the annual poster contest ahead of the Sant Vicent festival in La Nucia later this year.

The contest is the first step in gearing up for the festivities and has been organised to find the best original poster to advertise the upcoming event. The submission window opened in mid-February and will continue through to March 21, there is a singular prize of €500 for the winning poster.

The competition rules can be found on

the La Nucia town council website.

This is the sixth time the contest has taken place, its aim is to promote creativity, graphic design and artists of both professionals and amateurs in the local area and beyond.

The theme of the poster must relate to the festivities and include the slogan: Festes de Sant Vicent del Captivador. From 25 to 28 April 2025. There will be an exhibition of the original artwork later in the year.

Amature theatrics

L’ALFAS DEL PI have announced the beginning of their Amateur theatre programme. The shows began on Monday, March 10 and will run through to March 30 a full programme is available online.

This is the twenty-third instalment of the Mostra de Teatre de l’Alfàs del Pi, which begins with a week dedicated to amateur theatre and continues after that with professional performances bringing together six companies from the Alicante province.

For several years, the City Council of L’Alfas del Pi has worked hard to show the importance of amateur theatre, by giving visibility to theatre companies in the region. In the last edition

of the programme, the amateur theatre week brought together nearly 2,000 spectators, filling the auditorium of the Casa de Cultura at each of the events. This has been highlighted by the Councillor for Culture, Manuel Casado spoke to the success of the event “We are sure that this year the Amateur Theatre Cycle… will also be a success and we want to encourage citizens from all over the region

to come… to the Casa de Cultura de l’Alfas and enjoy the performances”.

The Mostra de Teatre de l’Alfàs del Pi began with a Theatre Workshop from the Housewives Association, they will deliver seven plays: ‘The priest boyfriend’, ‘Employment Office’, ‘Unfulfilled Promise’ and ‘Bus Stop’. Tickets start from just €3 and can be bought online via the Town Hall website.

Workshops to promote broad bean growth

Photo Credit: Ajuntament de Benitachell

A week of amateur theatre

Photo

8M celebrating women

THERE were multiple international Women’s Day events held across the Costa Blanca.

International Women’s Day or 8M was celebrated in a variety of different ways from huge demonstrations to localised events.

In Benidorm 8M was celebrated with a programme of culture for equality from March 3 till March 9. A concert-conference on March 6 covered the legacy of great women of music, science and society. It focused on how great women excelled in their fields despite being women in a male dominated society.

In Finestrat, women’s creativity and art were celebrated. The women of Finestrat are well known for their colourful crocheted

lanterns, more than sixty of these lanterns called fanalets adorned the streets of the Old Town alongside artwork depicting women which lined the streets as a symbol of solidarity for March 8. The lanterns will remain in the streets and an exhibition can be visited at the Museu de Finestrat from March 12 to March 28.

In Calpe, the town hall used the week to name streets after two inspiring women, the first was named after Manuela Solís Clarás, the first woman to earn a degree in medicine from the University of Valencia. The second was dedicated to two-time Nobel prize winner, chemist and physicist Marie Curie, a pioneer in the field of radioactivity.

Lions celebrate

MARCH began with a celebration for the Teulada Moraira Lions as they recognised the hard work of their dedicated volunteers who work in their charity shop, The Lion’s Den. In honour of this occasion, a lunch was held at Maxine’s restaurant in Moraira.

The group in attendance included twenty dedicated regular volunteers who work alongside several part-time helpers and five Lions. It is only because they choose to dedicate their most precious commodity, time, that the shop runs as smoothly as it does.

While the team is predominantly made up of English volunteers, the Teulada Moraira Lions are proud to have Dutch, Belgian, and Australian ladies among their team of helpers. They even

have three married couples who work alongside each other, a true testament to teamwork and partnership.

With the volunteers giving up their time on designated days, it can be difficult for them to all come together. This is why celebratory lunches such as this one

are seen as the perfect opportunity for them to interact and strengthen their bond. If you are interested in volunteering for a few hours a week in The Den, you can enquire at the shop, or call David on WhatsApp 634 369 705, or Janet on email janetdane1@gmail.com

Photo Credit: Facebook Ayuntamiento de Finestrat

Teulada Moraira Lions enjoy lunch at Maxine’s restaurant.

International Women’s Day was celebrated with a programme of culture for equality.

Credit: Teulada Moraira Lions

Inspiring Valencian goalkeeper Dear Memory benefit concert

DURING March 8

active celebrations the Valencian Football Club’s Goalkeeper, Gemma Pastor has inspired a new generation of young female footballers from Benitachell and Benissa.

The Poble Nou de Benitachell football club hosted a friendly match between the young women’s teams of two municipal schools from the Marina Alta towns.

As well as the friendly match, Valencian Football player Gemma Pastor visited and made a motivating speech to the young women, encouraging them to continue playing and enjoying women’s football, which is thriving postWorld Cup 2023, after Spain’s victory. Pastor said “When I was little, my teammates at Verger always welcomed me very well, but I know that there have been

girls who have been excluded. That’s why it’s nice to see that there are more and more women’s teams.”

Gemma Pastor has been playing in the women’s first team at Valencia Football Club since last season when she made her debut with them.

The event was organised by Benitachell’s Isa

Garrido, the head of the Equality Department and Javi Cabrera from the Sports department collaborated to make it a success. Gemma Pastor was gifted a pair of goalkeeper’s gloves with the Benitachell crest on them, the players received a purple backpack to show solidarity with International Women’s Day.

A BENEFIT CONCERT called Dear Memory is being held in La Nucia to aid families and patients with Altzheimers. The charity event will begin at 7pm on Thursday, March 13 at 7 pm, proceeds from the event will go the the Association of Relatives and Alzheimer Patients of the Marina Baixa or AFA. C Choirs from the local schools will perform, along with other musicians and teachers. The event is being directed by Carles Marti, music teacher of CEIP Sant Rafael. Also, on stage there will be a live painting by the artist Eli Llario Nuciera, during the concert.

Tickets for the event are already on sale, you can choose to give more than the allotted ticket price, or give a solidarity price of more than the original price of €5. There are several options of tickert prices to choose from on the Nucia Cultural website where you can buy tickets for €8,€10,€15 or €20.

The concert organisers have said that in this way “People who wish to collaborate in order to support those suffering from Alzheimer’s and their families in the Marina Baixa can choose the price of the tickets and increase or decrease their collaboration.”

Dear Memory benefit concert

Inspiring Valencian goalkeeper

JAVEA is creating space for young artists in one of their most visited museums.

Calling the next ge neration of artists from Javea and surrounding areas, the Javea has created an exhibition space called artJOVE al Museu.

The aim of the art programme is to promote young ar tists and get their work into exhibition spaces, that provides their work semi-professional exposure.

Raquel Violero, has

Creating artistic spaces

highlighted what the Javea Town Hall hopes to offer young people who are developing their crea-

A proposal has been put forward by two architects to save the Reixes Tower in El Campello.

They have offered to create plans for free which will save the falling tower from destruction. It is a continuation of new actions taken since the beginning of January 2025 to push for the stunning heritage landmark to be saved before it becomes any further ruined, by time and erosion.

The lookout tower has been declared of cultural interest or BIC. However, although a plan has been in place to reinforce the tower and stop further destruction the current owner of the defence towers which dates back to the 16th century has made no move to make much needed changes.

Yeray Hernandez, a councillor in El

tivity “We want to offer a platform that allows young creators from Xàbia to show their work in a professional environment. We know that they often do not have access to exhibition halls and we want to change that reality, the importance of this programme is to give visibility to developing talents.”

Young people who want to apply to exhibit their work in the youth space at the Soler Blasco Ethnographic and Archaeological Museum can apply as an individual or art collective. Simply submit an application with a portfolio of artwork for exhibition and take this opportunity to create a arts cv if not already written, send them in with a copy of a form of ID to art@ajxabia.org.

Creating artistic spaces Architects could save Reixes Tower

be a priority to refurbish the

and its surroundings for the enjoyment of the residents of

Campello said that ‘the state of the Torre de Reixes is sad and frustrating…it has to

Tower

El Campello.”

The tower was first put on the heritage red list in 2021, as it was in danger of collapse. The top part of the watchtower has now disappeared completely.

Architects could save Reixes Tower.

Photo Credit: Tourism El Campello

Pumptrack championships Carnival Night

MUTXAMEL hosted a press conference on Saturday to announce that it would be holding the Valencian Community of Cycling’s Pumptrack Circuit Championships.

The Mayor of Mutxamel, Rafael García Berenguer, the Sports Councillor, Pepin Perez Cebrian, and the director of the LBR League, Kevin Sanchez were all in attendance.

The Town Hall said that “the Department of Sports continues to promote the various sports disciplines and healthy lifestyle by hosting major sporting events in the municipality.”

More than 90 cyclists will take part in the event on Saturday, March 15.

This is no normal cycling race or route.

It will not be on a road route or flat track, instead the competition will take place on a pumptrack circuit. A pumptrack undulates in wave formations with minor and major inclines that laid out in a constant loop. It is designed to test cyclists on how they manage the pressure of impacts and generate propulsion around the hilly track. In theory once on the track the shape of the route is enough that cyclists should not need to pedal. Mutxamel have their own track. Cyclists will generally use BMX style bikes in the competitions. This year the competition is in association with Bike Park Costa Blanca, who host spaces for training with dirt tracks and a gym purpose-made for these kinds of events.

ON March 8, the streets of Benidorm were filled with people as they came together to enjoy Carnival night. The parade was awash with colour and creativity as participants adorned elaborate costumes in the hope of winning the costume competition. The costumes on display covered a wide range of themes including iconic films, woodland creatures, futuristic figures, and those from traditional cultures.

The parade was officially opened by the queen of the Festes Majors Patronals and her bridesmaids.

In the spirit of the carnival, they were dressed in beautiful Egyptian-themed costumes. Following them were the mayorales of the Comissio de Festes, who wore mysterious black tunics to conceal their identities.

The awards ceremony was held at the Plaza, with the Benidorm Mayor in attendance to make the presentations. In doing so he applauded the originality of the costumes, commenting on how the Benidorm

Carnival seems to surpass itself every year. The first prize in the group category was awarded to the period costumes of Fashion News. In the individual category, Hermes received the highest score from the judges, followed by Fire Dragon, and Paper Recycling respectively.

Following the parade’s conclusion, the party continued well into the early hours, thanks to the expert organisation of the Associacio de Penyes.

Press conference held for cycling championship

Fashion News wins first prize in the Group category

Photo Credit: Ajuntament de Mutxamel Credit: Benidorm.org

WHEN someone passes away, it is very important to remember that heirs will not only receive the assets left by the deceased. They will also inherit, except in certain cases (acceptance of inheritance with benefit of inventory), the debts that the deceased may have incurred during their lifetime. This is a crucial aspect that many people overlook. Therefore, having a clear and precise understanding of the deceased’s assets and debts is essential. In this article, we analyse inheritance debts in the Inheritance Tax in Spain. What they consist of, how to quantify them, and how they should be managed to avoid problems.

Debts and expenses that can (and should) be included in an inheritance.

In Spain, the following expenses, costs and debts are

considered tax deductible when presenting the Inheritance Tax Declaration:

- Funeral expenses, meaning burial, funeral, and related costs.

- Tax or social security debts.

- Medical and hospital expenses related to treatment connected with the cause of death.

- Personal loans.

- Credit card debts.

- Debts with suppliers or companies.

- Etc.

According to case law, the IBI (Property Tax) debt corresponding to the year of death would be considered a deductible debt.

Debts and expenses that cannot be deducted in an inheritance.

Expenses related to real security rights (such as mort-

gages or pledges) cannot be included as deductible expenses, as they do not reduce the value of the property in the event of transfer. Expenses related to executors or solicitors’ fees would also not be deductible, except in cases where the succession is contentious. In such cases, legal fees could be deductible.

Contrary to what many people think, residential expenses are also not considered deductible, as they are not medical but rather care-related. However, if there is an outstanding debt owed to a care home, it could be considered a debt of the deceased.

Finally, food, drinks, and celebration expenses (such as dinners or social events, which are common in some countries) are also not deductible in the Inheritance Tax.

What happens with Tax Debts that may arise after the inheritance?

It is very common for heirs to know that there will be a significant tax debt left by the deceased, but for this debt not to be quantified at the time of accepting the inheritance. A typical example would be the following: a person sells a property in February 2024, generating a significant capital gain, and passes away a few months later. That capital gain will have to be declared in their income tax return of 2025. Creating a tax debt that the heirs will need to handle. Since the deadline to settle the inheritance tax is six months, it is possible that the exact amount of the tax debt will not be known until much later. In these cases, it is common to file the inheritance tax self-assessment without including this tax debt. Once it has been quan-

tified, the following year, an amended inheritance tax return can be submitted. Formally declaring the pending debt and requesting, if applicable, a refund or corresponding adjustment.

Conclusions.

Correctly managing inheritance debts is essential to avoid problems with the Tax Agency. At White-Baos Lawyers, we provide specialised advice on inheritance and tax law. If you need help with an inheritance, wish to understand which debts are deductible or which are not, do not hesitate to contact us. The information provided in this article does not constitute legal advice but is intended for general informational purposes only.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

Non-EU doctors demand fair wages.

Doctors on strike

HUNDREDS of non-EU doctors across France staged a three-day hunger strike, demanding fair wages and stable employment. Known as “padhue,” these foreign-trained medics work in hospitals facing chronic staff shortages but earn up to three times less than their EU-trained colleagues. Many are also stuck on short-term contracts renewed every six months, despite their crucial role in the healthcare system.

President Emmanuel Macron previously acknowledged their situation as ‘untenable’, promising reforms to improve their legal status and ensure better pay. However, diabetes specialist Abdelhalim Bensaïdi, working at Nanterre Hospital,

says little has changed. “We remain in a cycle of uncertainty, despite our essential contribution to the health sector,” he stated. A lack of progress has fueled frustration among these doctors, who say they have been left without clear paths to permanent residency or salary parity. In response, unions called for a major demonstration outside the French Ministry of Health in Paris. Their demands include equal pay, stable contracts, and a transparent system for diploma recognition. As pressure mounts, many believe this hunger strike could serve as a turning point, forcing the government to finally act on its commitments to foreign-trained doctors.

Booking.com appealed the fine.

€413m Booking.com fine suspended

SPAIN’s National Court has temporarily suspended the €413.2 million fine imposed on Booking.com by the National Commission for Markets and Competition (CNMC).

The CNMC originally imposed the fine in July 2024, accusing Booking.com of engaging in anti-competitive practices that restricted Spanish hotels from offering lower prices on their own websites. The commission also alleged that the platform used ranking and loyalty programmes to favour hotels that concentrated their bookings on Booking.com, limiting competition from rival OTAs.

On October 30, 2024, Booking.com appealed the ruling, claiming that the fine would harm both hotels and customers and that

the CNMC’s findings were incorrect.

The National Court accepted Booking.com’s request to suspend the fine until the appeal is resolved. This means the company is not required to immediately pay the fine or modify its business practices in Spain.

The court’s decision is a common step taken to prevent immediate financial harm to companies while legal proceedings continue. However, Booking.com was required to provide a financial guarantee covering the full €413.2 million penalty in case the appeal

is unsuccessful.

The appeal process could take months or even years to resolve. If the court ultimately sides with the CNMC, Booking.com will be required to pay the fine and make significant changes to its business operations in Spain.

EasyJet’s longest-ever flight

ANYONE looking to swap grey skies for golden sands can now jet off on EasyJet’s longest-ever flight, as the budget airline takes off to a sizzling new destination this month.

The low-cost carrier is launching its first-ever route to Sal Island, Cape Verde,

a stunning African archipelago offering sun-drenched beaches, turquoise waters, and temperatures hitting a balmy 25C - even in March.

Taking off from London Gatwick on Monday, March 31, the new service will run three times a week - Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fri-

days - making it easier than ever for holidaymakers to escape the spring chill without breaking the bank. And here’s the kicker: this six-hour flight is now the longest in easyJet’s history, matching its Belfast to Hurghada, Egypt, service in duration.

Cape Verde, a cluster of ten volcanic islands in the central Atlantic, sits around 400 nautical miles west of Senegal and is often dubbed “Africa’s answer to the Caribbean” - but without the sky-high prices. Previously, Brits could only fly there with TUI, with routes from London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and Newcastle. But now, thanks to easyJet’s expansion, holidaymakers can grab return flights for as little as £230.98 per person, according to the airline’s website. So, whether it’s windsurfing, sunbathing, or simply escaping the unpredictable British weather, easyJet’s latest route could be your ticket to paradise.

EasyJet launches its longest-ever flight to a tropical island in Cape Verde.

Pompidou Centre closes

PARIS bids temporary farewell to one of its most iconic cultural landmarks as the Pompidou Centre prepares for a five-year renovation.

Art lovers flocked to the museum over the weekend for a final glimpse of its vast collection before its doors shut on Monday, March 10.

The ambitious €262 million project will see the removal of 2,000 artworks, with some pieces set to travel to other Parisian institutions and international museums. According to museum director Laurent Le Bon, previously unseen works will also feature in a future exhibition at the Grand Palais, offering visitors a rare chance to discover hidden gems from the Pompidou’s archives.

Designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard

Rogers in the 1970s, the Pompidou Centre has become a symbol of modern and contemporary art. However, time has taken its toll. The renovation will include crucial asbestos removal, improvements in accessibility and energy efficiency, and the creation of new spaces for young visitors. Once reopened, the museum promises a fresh, multidisciplinary approach to its exhibitions.

While the Pompidou embarks on this lengthy transformation, other European museums are also undergoing major upgrades. The Louvre is tackling renovations while remaining open, while Berlin’s Pergamon Museum faces a two-decade closure. For now, as the final visitors step out of the Pompidou’s galleries, Paris eagerly awaits the rebirth of its beloved cultural giant.

Stolen luxury cars

GUARDIA CIVIL officers have recovered 40 rental vehicles stolen in different countries of the European Union, registered them in Spain, and then sold them on the second-hand market. At the moment, eight people have been arrested for crimes of falsification of public documents, receipt, and fraud.

Thanks to document analysis by the Central Traffic Investigation Group of the Civil Guard along with information received from different provincial traffic headquarters and ITV stations, it was possible to discover the fraudulent registration of vehicles that had been reported stolen.

The criminal gang obtained and stole vehicles through rental contracts in a variety of countries. To do this, they resorted to using homeless people who, in ex-

change for monetary rewards, sold them on using their own personal documentation. The criminals moved the vehicles to Spain, where they were registered using false documentation, failing to pay the corresponding fees to the tax office.

The vehicles were legalised in Spain by obtaining the documentation in the ITVs, where they were granted the technical inspection card. Later they were registered in various provincial headquarters, which allowed them to obtain a new national registration.

The operation, called ‘Sescar’, was carried out by the government beginning in October 2024 after the finding of multiple enrolment files presented in different provincial traffic headquarters and ITV stations throughout the country.

Credit : Shutterstock, Pascale Gueret

Museum closes for five-year overhaul.

Finland solar boost

SOLAR developer Alight has reportedly secured €46 million in senior debt financing from banks ABN AMRO and SEB to fund a 100 MWp solar park in Eurajoki, Finland.

The financing is part of a broader facility agreement to support over 300 MWp of solar parks in Finland.

This framework financing agreement will facilitate the construction and operation of multiple solar projects, potentially boosting Finland’s total installed

solar capacity by 25 per cent, according to the Finnish Solar Energy Association, cited by Cision News

Warren Campbell, CEO of Alight, expressed gratitude towards the banks supporting the initiative, stating:

“We look forward to strengthening our existing relationship with SEB and establishing strong ties with ABN AMRO, particularly in light of future financing needs required to build out our extensive pipeline of 800 MW+ of Finni -

sh solar projects.” Cited by Cision News.

Finland has been actively working towards reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels and achieving its EU climate targets.

Lisa McDermott, Managing Director of Energy Transition, Project & Infrastructure Finance at ABN AMRO, added:

“Alight has an admirable track record of building and operating solar parks, and we’re proud to support the company in its mission to accelerate the transition to a

Robot

more sustainable future.” Cited by Cision News. With this latest fun -

ding, Alight aims to further expand its renewable energy footprint,

playing a key role in Finland’s green transition.

butlers wow MWC

MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS 2025 in Barcelona was another triumph, with now lower-cost humanoid robots stealing the show.

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 wrapped up on March 6, with a record-breaking turnout and another array of groundbreaking innovations. Among the attractions this year, one standout feature created more buzz than most - the rise of humanoid robots designed for domestic use with a significantly more affordable price tag.

The spotlight fell on Unitree Robotics, a Chinese company that presented its latest innovations. Their humanoid and quadruped robots have evolved into versatile machines with a new mission: home help. From serving beers with robotic arms to entertaining as pet-like

companions, these devices are now becoming purchasable realities.

Unitree’s G1 model emerged as a crowd favourite. Priced at under €15,000 this humanoid robot boasts a friendlier, less aggressive-looking design.

The success of MWC 2025 wasn’t just in the technology but in its accessibility. Unitree’s competitive pricing and improved quality have broadened the market, making robots viable for everyday consumers.

€46 million for solar energy.

EU to raise flight delay compensation

AIR travel in Europe may soon become less passenger-friendly as the European Union considers raising the flight delay compensation threshold from three to five hours. Under the current EU 261 regulation, passengers can claim between €250 and €600 for delays of three hours or more. The proposed changes have sparked backlash from consumer groups, who fear passengers will lose vital protections, while airlines stand to benefit from major cost savings.

The airline industry has been pushing for this revision, arguing that compensation costs - now exceeding €3 billion annually - are unsustainable. They cite factors beyond their control, such as weather disruptions and air traffic control strikes, as reasons why compensation

The proposed EU rule change could shift flight delay compensation eligibility from three hours to five.

rules should be relaxed.

The European Commission appears to be responding, proposing not only the five-hour delay threshold but also new compensation brackets based on travel distance and delay length. Critics, however, argue that reducing payouts does nothing to improve punctuality and weakens passengers’ rights.

Debate over these changes is expected to continue in Brussels, with the European Parliament and the Council set to review the proposal before it can take effect. Until then, the three-hour rule remains in place. Travellers are advised to monitor updates closely, as the final decision could reshape how compensation claims are handled across Europe.

200 Year-old tiara

A RARE piece of royal history made a dazzling comeback as Queen Mary of Denmark wore a 200-year-old tiara for the first time during a state banquet in Finland. The headpiece, originally owned by Queen Caroline Amalie, had been hidden away for over 140 years before making its grand debut at the event hosted by Finnish

wear rather than grand ceremonies. Queen Mary also paired the tiara with a matching bracelet, containing a stone from Mount Vesuvius, once gifted to Caroline Amalie alongside a handwritten note from the king.

Stepping into the spotlight with these historic heirlooms, Queen Mary became the first to wear them in over a century, styling them with a black and gold Jesper Høvring gown. This marks her second recent high-profile tiara moment, following her February appearance at the Evening Party for Art and Culture at Christiansborg Castle. As royal watchers celebrate the revival of this longlost treasure, they also recall the recent discovery that Princess Margaret’s missing tiara had unknowingly been with Queen Azizah of Malay-

200-year-old

with

a

Queen Mary debuts

rare,

gold tiara adorned

historic stones from Pompeii.

NEWS Travel

Guadix - A blend of history and landscape

GUADIX, located in the province of Granada in southern Spain, is a great destination for travellers seeking to explore history, nature, and culture.

From its unique cave homes to its stunning natural surroundings, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting town.

A glimpse into ancient living

One of the most distinctive and unique features of Guadix is its cave houses. These troglodyte dwellings have been carved into the

with Hispavan Campers

soft clay of the region for centuries, creating an entire cave district. You can even visit some of these cave homes where locals still live today, to experience how this ancient way of life continues in modern times.

Exploring nature’s beauty

The Sierra de Baza Natural Park, with its rugged mountains and wildlife, is perfect for hiking and getting close to nature. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the Desierto de Tabernas, a dramatic desert landscape famous for its history as a film location for spaghetti western films.

And if you want to take in a truly breathtaking view, the Mirador del Fin del Mundo offers panoramic views of the region’s unique landscape and eroded rock formations.

Cultural gems and historic landmarks

Guadix is rich in history and culture. The magnificent Guadix Cathedral is an impressive example of Renaissance architecture. The Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress with panoramic views of the town, is another must-see spot. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the Archaeological Museum, which showcases the region’s ancient past from prehistoric times to Roman and Moorish influences.

SUMMARY

If you’re the adventurous type, exploring Guadix by campervan is a fantastic way to see the

SPAIN isn’t the only country where wild boar are wandering into town, but one, nicknamed Frenek, is the ideal visitor who is happy to obey the law in Poland.

There is always a fear of the unknown when officers are called to deal with the arrival of wild boar in any town or village, so noone knew how it would behave when it appeared in the town of Wra clawska.

Police escort

Offi cers were prepa red for almost anything when they arrived in their police car, but what happened next caused amuse ment rather than chaos or confusion, and the end was a perfect result. Officers decided to cheerful disposition, not only calling it Franek

GREECE is emerging as a top destination for medical tourism, particularly in assisted reproduction, thanks to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and welcoming legal framework. During the fourth Panhellenic Symposium on Assisted Reproduction, Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni highlighted Greece’s growing reputation as a global hub for fertility treatments.

The country has been ahead of the curve in shaping progressive legislation for assisted reproduction. Since introducing its first IVF laws in 2002 and strengthening them in 2005 with the creation of the National Autho-

(Frank or Francis in English) for some reason but encouraging it to follow them to the forest which it was quite happy to

En route, they encouraged Franek by commenting “Time to lose

Greece leads Europe in medical tourism

rity for Medically Assisted Reproduction, Greece has provided legal safeguards that ensure high-quality care. Kefalogianni emphasised that Greece combines “a progressive institutional framework, modern infrastructure, and top-tier scientific personnel.”

Beyond its medical advancements, the government is actively promoting Greece as a go-to destination for

some weight!”, “Franciszek! Jogging with the police!” and “You’re better than some people who just complain!”

Neither they nor any of the people who commented on the activity introduced the word ‘pig’ but everyone appeared to be very pleased with what was achieved and Franek quite happily trotted along beside the car until he got back to the forest.

Some of the most amusing comments on the Wraclawska Police Facebook page included “The first trained police boar in Poland on duty,” and another, “The boar knows what it’s doing, it has bodyguards against hunters.”

healthcare seekers. With state-ofthe-art fertility clinics, a sunny Mediterranean climate, and world-renowned cultural heritage, it offers a unique blend of care and comfort.

Patients from across Europe and beyond are increasingly choosing Greece for IVF treatments, drawn by both the expertise of Greek specialists and the country’s relaxed, patient-friendly environment.

As Greece continues to develop its medical tourism sector, it solidifies its position as a premier choice for couples looking for cutting-edge fertility treatments while enjoying a world-class holiday experience.

Portugal’s gender pay gap

DESPITE economic growth, Portugal’s gender pay gap has expanded significantly over the past decade.

A new Randstad Research analysis reveals that in 2024, women earned €242 less per month than men - marking a 71.63 per cent increase in the disparity since 2014. At that time, the gap was €141, with men earning €892 and women €751. Today, men receive an average monthly wage of €1,311, while women earn €1,069, highlighting persistent inequality in salaries.

The report shows that while all sectors exhibit pay disparities, agriculture recorded the sharpest rise, with the gender wage gap increasing by an astonishing 750 per cent. However, the services sector continues to show the largest absolute difference, with men ear-

ning €304 more than women on average.

One positive development has been the rise of women in leadership roles. In 2014, only 9.5 per cent of managerial positions were held by women, lagging 10.3 percentage points behind the EU average. By 2024, this figure had climbed to 34.7 per cent, bringing Portugal in line with European standards.

Women now make up 49.5 per cent of Portugal’s workforce, an increase of 20.7 per cent over the past decade. Yet, Portugal still scores below the EU average in gender equality, ranking 68.6 on the Global Gender Equality Index compared to the EU’s 71.

While progress in leadership representation is evident, the widening pay gap underscores the need for further efforts to achieve true wage parity.

Franek happily trotted alongside the police car.

Portugal’s gender pay gap continues to increase.

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Beniconnect Travel Agency provides an incredibly low-cost airport shuttle, serving all the resorts in the Costa Blanca such as Benidorm, Albir, Altea, Calpe, Javea and Moraira, and is the only company offering airport shuttle transfers to and from the Marina Alta areas.

Beniconnect prides itself on offering outstanding customer service and always aims to improve their customers’ travel experience. With this in mind, one of Beniconnect’s most popular and exclusive services is their Express Connect Shuttle.

The Express Connect Shuttle guarantees you a quick hassle free transfer to the resorts of Benidorm, Albir, Alfaz del Pi, Altea and La Nucia. There is less waiting time at the airport and a guarantee of a maximum of five/six stops depending on the resort you are staying in.

To celebrate St Pa-

trick’s Day and wishing that the ‘Mist of Irish Magic Shorten every Road’, we are offering all our readers a very special 10 per cent discount off our Express Connect Shuttle.

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH

A week of celebrations

LAS FALLAS, St Patrick’s Day and Spanish Father’s Day all fall in the same week this year in Benidorm, which means the town is really going to come alive with party spirit.

Although there isn’t an official parade in Benidorm for this year’s St Patrick’s Day, the atmosphere and live music will be unmissable at any of the local Irish pubs. Enjoy one of the biggest unofficial events in the Costa Blanca calendar.

Las Fallas is a traditional Spanish festival that is celebrated in multiple towns across the Costa Blanca. The towns celebrate by creating huge papier-mache art, usually recognisable figures or themes, like the circus. These Fallas are then dotted around the town in an open-air exhibition.

An authentic experience

THIS cosy Spanish restaurant on the main street of Calpe serves an authentic tapas menu.

La Llar de Barbara reopened for the 2025 season on March 1 and as a local favourite they are already taking bookings. Located in Calpe’s old town, their quaint exterior with its traditional Spanish frontage invites you inside to test an authentic menu. They produce delicious tapas options that range from the traditional dates with bacon and gazpacho through to dishes that add a little something different like Gulash. Prices are incredibly affordable for a location that is in the centre of the tourist favourite, Calpe, and the food is abundant and delicious. They have a great selection of vegetarian options and

can help people navigate their menu regarding allergies or different food needs and preferences. Get their advice about which dishes to choose from, as the staff of this family run business are accommodating and knowledgeable. They are often busy so it is worth booking in advance, so you do not miss out.

The restaurant also has menus in multiple languages, which you can view on their Facebook page or when you visit the restaurant. Once you have tasted their food you will understand why they receive rave reviews.

Visit them in person: La Llar de Barbara, Calle Mayor, 10, Calp. Or contact them to make a reservation on 965 830 160

a youth party, parade and more fireworks in the evenings. Finally on Wednesday, March 19, which is also Spanish Father’s Day, there will be a huge burning of the statues, with bonfires lit across the town, the most daring figures will be saved from the fires.

For Benidorm that exhibition begins on Saturday, March 15 as the figures are moved into place. On Sunday, March 16, there will be a competition for the best Falla and a night time party. Then on Monday, March 17 there is a parade through the streets which visits each of the Fallas. On Tuesday, March 18, fireworks and crackers will wake Benidorm in the morning from 8am, there will be

Photo Credit: Benidorm.org

Spain’s Wine Legacy A Journey Through Time

I’M beyond thrilled to have a space in Euro Weekly News here in Costa Blanca, where we’ll embark on a delicious adventure through the world of Spanish wine. Together, we’ll sip our way through history, uncover unique grape varieties, and meet the passionate winemakers who turn sunshine into magic in a glass.

Spain, France, and Italy all boast ancient winemaking traditions, but Spain’s history comes with an extra twist - quite literally! While the Romans shaped all three countries’ vineyards, Spain had an extra challenge: Moorish rule, which wasn’t exactly wine-friend-

ly. Yet, the Spanish never let a good vineyard go to waste. Spain also played a starring role in exporting wine to the New World, with Sherry becoming the VIP of international trade. Though war and dictatorship slowed things down, Spain bounced back, and today, it’s a global wine superstar.

In this series, we’ll tour Spain’s stunning wine regions, from the bold reds of Ribera del Duero to the crisp Albariños of Galicia. So grab a glass, get comfy, and let’s dive into the wonderful, wine-filled world of Spain - where every sip tells a story!

martha@marthasvineyard.es

A nod to Scotland in Moraira

“AS far back as I can remember, I would be standing on a little stool behind the bar, helping wash the glasses in a bar where my parents used to go. I always had a passion for it.”

This was the response I received when I asked Vicky, the owner of the newly opened McKenzie’s in Moraira, what had made her want to open a bar. At 15, she began in the kitchen of the very same venue that she had frequented as a child.

She later worked as a breakfast chef in a hotel before spending 11 years in a pub similar to the one that she now owns. This all took place in Holland, where she was brought up by her Dutch mother and her Scottish father. She had hoped to open a bar there, but fate had other ideas and led her to open a bar in Moraira instead, a place she had been coming to for holidays for more than 20 years. When I asked her what she loves about being a bar owner, she said, “I like to make people happy. To see them enjoying themselves, laughing, dancing, singing, playing games. I love it when people are having fun, and I can provide that for them.”

McKenzie’s Ctra. Moraira-Teulada, 166, 03724 Teulada Tel: 711 066 509

Martha Ardila, Sommelier at Martha’s Vineyard Moraira

Three-day St Patrick’s Celebration

THE Irish Tavern Albir is putting on a Super Saturday event ahead of St Patricks Day, a St Patrick’s Day warm-up party and finally the party of the year on St Patrick’s Day.

There will be live acts who have flown in to entertain from Ireland and Liverpool and some fantastic local talent too.

The long weekend of partying starts on Saturday, March 15 at midday with a silent disco walk, there will be the Saucy Pig food truck available from 1.30pm alongside live music which will take you through to the six nations game Italy versus Ireland at 3.15pm. The live music begins again at 7pm as the tavern is joined by Mick

Wardy Ward and later at 9pm an act who have flown all the way from Ireland: Jack and Ryan.

On the eve of St Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 16 there will be more sports-filled fun with football to watch, a live band that have flown in from Liverpool, Pablo and Joseph, from 4pm, and then a Jam session from 8pm.

Finally on St Patrick’s Day itself four live bands take to the stage from midday, there will be amazing drinks promotions at the biggest party of the year. Albir Irish Tavern have said to join them and ‘get ready to shamrock and roll’. Visit their Facebook to see the programme they have planned.

A transformative art exhibition

AN exhibition opened at El Espacio de Arte Contemporaneo de la Barbera, or the contemporary art space, on March 7 in Villajoyosa.

The art exhibit was part of the International Women’s Day events

celebrated in the town and will continue to accept visitors until May 16.

Three female artists’ work is being shown there with collections from Rocio Guijarro Sanchez, Raquel Puer-

Father’s Day Celebrations

THERE is a packed schedule for Sant Josep in Alfas del Pi as Spanish Father’s Day falls at the same time as their Las Fallas festival.

The town hall held a meeting to establish the programme of events.

Celebrations begin on Saturday, March 15 at 10am with Las Fallas crafted figures being placed in the town. There will be music later in the evening.

On Sunday 16, the day will start with a parade at 10 am followed by an offering to St. Joseph.

According to the town hall, “After the offering, the last of the seven Sundays dedicated to St. Joseph will begin. The tradition dates back to the 16th century.”

On Tuesday 18, there will be a children’s world from midday.

On Sunday 19, at 7.30pm a procession begins and the end of the celebrations will culminate in the burning of the Las Fallas crafted figures in Bonfires. A full programme, detailing where each event will occur will be released shortly on their website, lalfas.es.

ta-Varo and Esperanza Duran Delgado. Together the artists form the Allibera Group, and they explore themes like the patriarchy.

The exhibit is described as a creative journey, their artwork is based in symbology, aesthetics, sociology and feminism to show a world in constant transformation, a change that is sometimes uncomfortable to view and that dismantles myths to discover the truth. They say they “unravel in order to understand… this critical gesture reveals a drive: to question the paradigms of a society anchored in heteropatriarchal structures, to open fissures where what has been silenced can breathe.”

The mayor, Marcos Zaragoza, attended the first night of the exhibition.

Photo Credit: Facebook The Irish Tavern Albir

Fundraising for an operation

THE GARDEN ROOM and The Capband are putting on an event alongside the Bruised but not Broken cancer charity.

said that they are raising funds for a man with throat cancer who desperately needs an operation so that he can eat properly.

On Friday, March 28 at 7.30pm the fun live music event will begin and everyone is invited to take part and make a difference in their community. Lorraine the head of the charity Bruised but not Broken,

The event will have live music and food will be available to buy from The Garden Room in El Campello.

Tickets will cost €10, they can be bought from The Garden Room the charity itself, at their charity shop in El Campello.

The Bruised but Not Broken charity run by Lorraine was started in memory of her daughter Bec who passed away after fighting bowel cancer, the charity helps individuals suffering with cancer and families during their battle with the disease. They offer everything from

specialist equipment through to advice on how to navigate living in Spain whilst living with cancer and when needed they help individuals monetarily by raising funds.

Join a charity who have done vital work helping people for over a decade and help to make one man’s life a little more comfortable.

Photo Credit: Bruised but Not Broken

SOME parks are known for their spacious green areas and maybe a bench to sit on while enjoying the view, but not all!

Tiny oasis

land, Oregon,” Koyama said. “Inspired by that, they decided to build an even smaller park.”

Located in Nagaizumi Town, Shizuoka, about an hour from Tokyo, Japan, a tiny park can be found after a short walk from the Nagaizumi Town Hall through a residential area.

If you look closely at an empty plot of land, you’ll spot something unusual - the world’s smallest park, measuring just 0.24 square metres, about the size of two A3 sheets of paper.

Despite its size, the park includes an entrance, a tiny bench, and some grass.

Since then, the park in Nagaizumi had been informally recognised as the world’s smallest park. Its small size often made headlines in the media, and locals used it as a quiet spot to relax, while tourists frequently stopped by to take photos.

“A staff member had visited the United States and discovered the smallest park at the time, Mill Ends Park in Port -

Shuji Koyama, a team leader in the town’s construction management division, explained that the park was created in 1988 to make use of some unused space along the road.

To make the claim official, the town hired a professional surveyor to precisely measure the park and gather additional information to meet the guidelines set by the Guinness World Records.

Ski jumping team cheats

NORWAY’s ski jumping team has admitted to deliberately cheating at the World Championships.

The wrongdoing was confirmed in a press conference on Sunday, March 9, stating that team members knowingly altered their suits in a bid to bypass regulations.

Ski jumpers Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang were disqualified on Saturday, March 8, after an inspection found modifications in their jumpsuits.

Similarly, Joergen Graabak was disqualified on Friday, March 7, due to an issue with his bindings.

Head coach Jan-Erik Aalbu addressed the scandal in a press conference, stating: “The way I consider this, we have cheated. We have tried to cheat the system. That is unacceptable.”

“The revelation comes as a shock to me as well. Conscious manipulation of equipment and cheating goes against everything I stand for.”

According to Aalbu,

the Norwegian support team intentionally inserted reinforced thread into the suits, fully aware that it was against regulations but believing it would go undetected by the International Ski Federation (FIS) equipment controllers.

FIS confirmed on Sunday, March 9, that its Independent Ethics and Compliance Office had launched an investigation.

FIS is now examining all six Norwegian medals in ski jumping and Nordic combined.

Guinness World Record official taking measurements.

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First hops into the world

TWO kangaroo joeys at Berlin Zoo have taken their first hops, marking a major milestone after spending months snugly tucked inside their mother’s pouch. The tiny siblings, Roey and Magra, were born in January but have only just plucked up the courage to emergewhile a third joey remains firmly lodged in mum’s warm embrace.

After weeks of peeking out from their mother’s pouch, the joeys finally took their first wobbly hops into the world - much to the delight of zookeepers and visitors alike.

Kangaroo babies, known as joeys, are born in an astonishingly undeveloped state. Measuring just the size of a Gummibärchen (that’s a gummy bear to you and me), they arrive - crawling into their mother’s pouch - after a brief gestation of only 28 to 33 days. But their journey is far from over.

Unlike most mammals,

a newborn kangaroo doesn’t come out bouncing. Instead, this jellybean-sized embryo must embark on a remarkable climb - hauling itself six inches from the birth canal up to its mother’s pouch, where the real development begins.

Inside the pouch, lined with delicate skin akin to a human’s inner wrist, the baby latches onto one of four nipples, feeding and

growing for the next 34 weeks. It’s a life of cosy luxury until the moment comes to take that first leap into the world.

For now, Roey and Magra are testing out their newfound independence - though mum’s pouch is still a tempting retreat after a long day’s bouncing.

As for their yet-toemerge sibling? Well, some joeys just aren’t in a rush to leave home.

Le Grand Dîner

THE MUSÉE DU LOUVRE is stepping into the world of high fashion with its first-ever philanthropic gala, Le Grand Dîner du Louvre.

Timed to coincide with Paris Fashion Week, the exclusive event will welcome over 300 hand-picked guests from the realms of fashion, art, and entertainment. Set in the majestic Cour Marly, the evening is already being hailed as Paris’s answer to the Met Gala.

Fashion journalist Loïc Prigent sees the dinner as more than just a spectacle, calling it a strategic move to position the Louvre as a creative powerhouse. “Designers, come to us. We’re an inexhaustible source of inspiration,” he remarked. By courting the fashion elite, the museum hopes to spark fresh artistic collaborations while securing essential

INTERVIEW

funds for conservation and acquisitions.

While the Met Gala raises an eye-watering $26 million annually, the Louvre aims for a more modest but impactful €1 million. With increasing competition from well-funded museums in the US and the Middle East, private sponsorship is becoming a necessity. Visa, a key backer of the event, is supporting this push towards sustainable cultural financing.

Guests will enjoy a private preview of the Louvre Couture exhibition before sitting down for an elegant dinner. Unlike the Met Gala, where avant-garde fashion dominates, this soirée promises a more refined atmosphere, reinforcing the Louvre’s prestige as both a historic monument and a modern cultural force.

Pitmaster, Late from Estonia - Speaking European

EWN: What brings you to Fuengirola?

Late: Spain was a dream for me for many years. I had Harley Davidson trip across the country with a friend from Girona to Marbella, and then back again. This was the turning point for me, where I decided I will be one day. So I moved to Fuengirola in 2023.

EWN: Where precisely are you from?

Late: I’m originally from Estonia but I haven’t lived there for 10 years. Since then, I spent many years in Finland and also a bit in France before moving here.

EWN: What’s your day job?

Late: My daily job is my biggest pas-

sion: BBQ, so, in a way, I can quote Mark Twain’s famous words: “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Though I don’t totally agree with that. You need to work like crazy to become better every single day you cook! Especially in here where the American BBQ culture is, at the moment, zero to none. But it’s about to change.

EWN: What’s the best thing about life in Spain?

Late: Best thing in Spain? Probably is the feeling that I’m finally where I belong.

EWN: Will you ever go back?

Late: This is home for me.

Berlin Zoo’s baby kangaroos take their first hops into the world.

Credit: Shutterstock, Ken Griffiths

The Louvre’s famous glass pyramid, where an exclusive philanthropic dinner will blend haute couture and heritage during Paris Fashion Week.

Late and his hand-built offset smoking barbecue rig.

RIDING a Harley Davison from Barcelona to Marbella, expert barbecue pitmaster Late found the Costa del Sol and decided this was the life he wanted.

Credit: Late

Post office shutdown

MANY will have heard the phrase ‘pub with no beer’ but with effect from the end of 2025, Denmark will have a post office that delivers no letters.

Founded more than 400 years ago, the state-run postal service, PostNord has decided to phase out its 1,500 letter boxes by June and then stop deliveries all together by the end of 2025.

The concept of service has been overtaken by the need to save money as fewer and fewer people send letters, relying more on emails and the internet.

Without explaining the mechanics of the future, Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen confirmed that it would still be possible to send and receive letters which may be good if confusing news for the estimated 271,000 (mainly elderly Danes) who still rely on the postal system.

Whilst many of the official documents issued in Denmark are sent via a

Digital Post App, some services such as hospital appointments are still sent by post even though ‘snail mail’ is now subject to VAT.

Initially, some 1,500 postal workers (around a third of the entire PostNord staffing) are expected to lose their jobs and this is likely to increase as time goes by, adding to the number of

unemployed in the country.

Even the declining hobby of stamp collecting will be hit as those who purchased stamps in 2024 or 2025, can exchange them for cash until 2026, whilst the Danish Post Office switches its focus from delivering a letter to parcel collection and delivery.

Danish post boxes are good for graffiti and not much else.

FRANCE DENMARK

Helping out

FORTY per cent of the Danish dedicated an average 18 hours each month to some kind of voluntary work in 2024, a Centre for Social Science Research (Vive) survey revealed. This was the first time in 20 years that the percentage had risen and was noticeably higher than the 36 per cent that Vive recorded in 2020

True grit

THE Danish Roads Directorate used 33,000 tons of gritting salt on the country’s roads between October and March, compared with 41,600 tons required between October and April 2024. The service could still be needed, the Directorate warned: “Milder winters can give a sense of false security,” a spokesperson said.

PORTUGAL

Bad driving

ONLY Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Latvia, Romania and Bulgaria had more road deaths per million inhabitants than Portugal in 2023, the 30-Day Accident Report revealed. Sweden with 21.8 fatalities per million had the fewest deaths on its roads, while Portugal’s 60.8 were well above the EU average of 45.6 fatalities.

More water

ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY minister Maria da Graça Carvalho announced on March 5 that the Drought Monitoring Committee would ease restrictions on water consumption at its next meeting in Faro. After days of beneficial rain, the Algarve’s reserves are 99.3 cubic hectometres up on this time last year.

EURO PRESS

GERMANY

History gem

A FRAGMENT of the Bayeux Tapestry was recently discovered amongst the belongings of textile archaeologist Karl Schlabow, who died in Schleswig-Holstein in 1984.

According to the Canberra Times, Schlabow was ordered by the Nazis to help in measuring the French treasure, but kept a scrap taken from the underside.

Bagging area

Photo credit: CC/Myrabella

BUSINESS is booming for auction houses selling coveted Hermes bags where bidders can skip the notorious waiting list for a Kelly or Birkin bag, while having to pay considerably more. That means a new Birkin has an €8,950 price tag but an auctioned pre-owned version can cost 37 per cent more at €21,420.

Gas puzzles

BAYEUX TAPESTRY: Depicts the 1066 Norman invasion of England.

FRANCE no longer receives Russian gas via pipeline but with five liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals it is a major gateway for imports. Over the past year 34 per cent of the LNG probably came from Russia, although gas distributor NaTran admitted that establishing how much remained in France was ‘complex’.

IRELAND FINLAND SWEDEN

Payback time

A TRALEE woman of 36 received a fouryear prison term for using different names to obtain more than €60,000 in benefits by claiming to be terminally ill. On those occasions when Social Protection officials requested supporting documentation, she prevented further investigation by accusing them of ‘major discrimination’.

New look

DUBLIN’S fruit and vegetable market in the city’s Smithfield district, which closed in 2019, is to be redeveloped after Dublin City Council agreed to borrow €30 million to restore the Victorian building. Plans include sites for food shops, restaurants and small retail units together with parking spots and a games area.

Tried and true

MEDIEAKADEMIN’S annual report revealed that Systembolaget, the state-run liquor stores, and IKEA were the most trusted brands in Sweden. H&M registered its lowest-ever trust rating to date and Tesla also saw a marked decline, while the e-commerce platforms Shein and Temu were the least-trusted brands of all.

Church divided

A REPORT on the Evangelical Lutheran Church’s management of the forests it owns, 1.7 per cent of Sweden’s total, has divided clergy and parishioners. Some want more sustainability and accuse the Church of overexploiting its woodlands, while others defend its ‘clear-cutting’ method of felling and later replanting.

Shadow play

THE number of Baltic Sea cable incidents has increased ‘exceptionally’ although the chief of Finland’s SUPO intelligence service said dragging anchors were not very effective sabotage methods. The shadow fleet of tankers allowing Russia to export energy to other countries was the Baltics’s greatest concern, he said.

Sad song

TWENTY-ONE per cent of the members of Teosto, the Finnish music industry’s copyright organisation, are women but 85 per cent of the songs that were most-played in 2024 were written by men. As men dominated most of the tracks, they also earned more royalties, with just 15.3 per cent going to women.

Reindeer care

CLIMATE and Environment minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen announced plans to move hiking trails and limit traffic to provide suitable habitats for the country’s herds of wild reindeer. “We are proposing a number of measures to reverse the negative development that has occurred over time,” he said.

Charged up

AVINOR, the state-owned company which operates the majority of Norway’s civil airports, has signed an agreement to test electric aircraft in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority. Cargo-only trials between Stavanger and Bergen will use an electric aeroplane from US manufacturer, BETA Technologies.

ITALY

Posh nosh

AGRICULTURE minister Francesco Lollobrigida wants to reduce the value-added tax (VAT) charged at present on oysters. Lowering the tax, the minister maintained, would lower prices and put as many consumers as possible in a position of being able to afford oysters, which he insisted “must not be a luxury.”

Stay away

POLICE issued 2,746 protection orders against men who had subjected women to stalking and revenge porn in 2024, an increase of 44 per cent on 2023. There was also a huge increase in the number of protection orders issued for domestic violence, which rose by 125 per cent compared with the previous year.

NETHERLANDS

BELGIUM NORWAY

Act the part

POLICE in Noord-Nederland revealed that bulletproof vests and riot shields have been stolen from vehicles and the Zuidlaren training centre on two occasions. Like uniforms, the equipment designed to resist heavy gunfire is much sought after by criminals who use them to impersonate the police, a spokesperson said.

Sail away

VAN DER VALK shipbuilders, known for huge, luxury ocean-going yachts, have opened a new facility at their 9,000-square metre Waalwijk yard. The latest addition to six existing construction halls will allow Van der Valk to work simultaneously on two or more of its superyachts that can be up to 40 metres long.

High hopes

FOUR YouTubers filmed themselves climbing two Brussels skyscrapers, the 137-metre Iris Tower and the 107-metre Astr Tower, to draw attention to security flaws in government buildings. One of the high-rise blocks, which houses the Actiris employment service, has since lodged an official complaint against the group.

Flu wave

BELGIUM’S mortality rate increased by 10.8 per cent in recent months as 2,500 more people died from flu than would be usual for this time of the year. “It is the highest level in seven years,” virologist Steen Van Gucht told the VRT broadcaster, but predicted that the epidemic would be over by mid-March.

Will online banking replace banks? Your VOICE

Online banking can be more convenient, but physical branches provide a personal touch.

AS technology evolves, so does the way we manage our money. Online banking has gained popularity due to its convenience - it allows us to make transactions anytime, anywhere. This means we have round-the-clock access to services like transfers, bill payments, and account management. However, the rise of online banking doesn’t necessarily mean the end of traditional banking. Physical branches still provide a personalised touch, offering in-person services such as financial advice, and easy cash withdrawals.

While online banking offers a number of digital tools and enhanced security features, it also comes with limitations. It doesn’t offer the possibility of dealing with real people, which many people of older generations appreciate.

As both methods have their advantages and drawbacks, we asked our readers: Do you think online banking will replace traditional banking?

Allan-Janice Snowball responds, “Unfortunately yes. I personally refuse to do it but the time will come when I have to.” Similarly, Dennis Norton Maidana agrees, with some reservations, stating, “Yes 100 per cent, making even more people unemployed.”

Eileen North brings attention to some challenges, especially for older generations, writing, “I hope not. I’m not very good online. I know a lot of older people like me that aren’t.”

Jenny Church adds another practical

concern, “Online banking is useful but when the system is not working you are stuck.”

Angela Edgley remains optimistic, noting, “On-line banking is fine as long as you know how to use it... Banks will always need branches with humans for mortgages, property transactions etc., but thankfully the days of queueing are over.”

Chris Mcgovern supports a balance, saying, “We need both, I’d sooner talk face to face if there is a problem that needs sorting out straight away.”

Deb Horses agrees, commenting, “I sure hope not!... There are some things when you do need to go to the branch office.”

Mícheál Walsh is enthusiastic, writing, “Queues, indifferent and unhelpful clerks, bring it on.”

Stephen Rieley states, “Absolutely, it’s the way to go.”

Adam Woodward concurs, saying, “Without a doubt,” and Linda Ironton echoes this, stating, “Yep that’s the plan... cashless society.”

In conclusion, while online banking brings convenience and flexibility, it’s unlikely to fully replace traditional banking anytime soon.

Many people appreciate the personal touch of in-person services and, as technology moves forward, physical banks might evolve, but they’ll probably continue to coexist alongside digital platforms.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Jet-propelled

ROLLS-ROYCE announced that shareholders would receive £1.5 billion (€1.8 billion) as the jet engine company paid a dividend for the first time since the pandemic. Underlying sales of £17.8 billion (€21.26 billion) were 15 per cent up on 2023, while operating profits rose 55 per cent to £2.5 billion (€2.98 billion).

Settling up

SANTANDER paid €12.3 million in salaries, bonuses and compensation to executives who left the bank in 2024, compared to €3.5 million in 2023. Alexandra Brandao, Juan Guitard, Victor Matarranz and Marjolein van Hellemondt-Gerdingh all left the bank in 2024 during a period of ‘internal reorganisation’.

Pay and perks

DUNCAN WANBLAD, chief executive of Anglo American had a £888,000 (€1.06 million) pay rise in 2024, as the company warded off rival BHP’s takeover bid. In all, Wanblad took home £4.4 million (€5.25 million) after his £1.35 million (€1.61 million) basic pay was topped up with bonuses and other extras.

Good medicine

VICTOR URRUTIA VALLEJO, one of the Basque region’s richest men, announced in February that his company Asua Inversiones had acquired 3.338 per cent of the Faes Farma pharmaceutical company. A month later Urrutia revealed that he now held 15,875,358 shares, equivalent to 5 per cent of Faes Farma’s capital.

Yeezy go

ADIDAS sold its final pair of Yeezy trainers designed by Kanye West in December 2024, bringing the German sportswear company’s profitable partnership with the rapper to a definitive end after their 2022 split. Adidas sold 650 million pairs of Yeezys last year for €696 million and made a €200 million profit.

STAT OF WEEK

€1.06 billion

paid by CriteriaCaixa, the La Caixa Foundation’s holding company for a 5 per cent stake in Veolia, French owner of Agbar which supplies water to 1,300 Spanish municipalities.

Panama deal for BlackRock

BLACKROCK, the world’s biggest asset manager, heads a consortium prepared to pay €19 billion (€17.8 billion) for a stake in two Panama ports.

Located at each end of the Canal, the ports belong to CK Hutchison, the Hong Kong-based - but Cayman Islands-registered - conglomerate founded by Li Ka-shing and now owned by the Li family.

What promises to be the biggest acquisition of 2025 coincides with US president Donald Trump’s complaints that China had taken over the 82-kilometre waterway linking the Atlantic and the Pacific.

CK Hutchison shares, listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange, rose 25 per cent on March 5, their biggest jump in 27 years.

Meanwhile, the agreement would give BlackRock, its Global Infrastructure Partners division and the ports section of Mediterranean Shipping

SPANISH infrastructure group Obrascon Huarte Lain (OHLA) will share in a €315 million payout after Qatar Rail cancelled a €1.1 million Doha metro project.

OHLA, Samsung C&T and the Qatar Building Corporation won the contract for work on the Msheireb and Education City stations in May 2013.

Co, an 80 per cent holding in the Hutchison Ports group, which operates 43 ports in 23 countries.

The consortium will also own 90 per cent of Panama Ports Co located at the Atlantic’s Cristobal entrance and the Balbao entrance in the Pacific.

According to sources quoted by the New York Times on March 4, talks between the BlackRock consortium and CK Hutchison executi-

ves ‘began a few weeks ago’.

Analysts pointed out that if the deal goes ahead, the $19 billion that CK Hutchison receives will be worth as much as its market valuation.

“It will be a total free ride for shareholders,” Kenny Wen, head of investment strategy at KGI Asia Ltd, told Bloomberg.

“Shareholders’ expectations of a special dividend or share buyback will increase significantly.”

Compensation for project

In 2016 the Spanish company confirmed to the London Stock Exchange that Qatar Rail had terminated agreement, alleging ‘non-compliance of certain contractual obligations.’

The consortium filed an arbitration request against

Goiko still growing Fair shareouts

NATIONWIDE clients who have received a Fair Share bonus for two consecutive years, hope for a third in 2025.

The UK’s biggest building society, which rewards mortgage clients who also bank with them with £100 (€119.40), paid £385 million (€459.6 million) to 3.85 million members last year.

Without making promises, Debbie Crosbie, Nationwide’s chief executive said recently that the company was ‘well positioned’ for a repeat payment to eligible customers.

THE Goiko hamburger chain expects to grow 80 per cent over the next five years with turnover increasing to €250 million.

The company founded by Andoni Goicoechea has been owned by private equity fund L Catterton, an investment vehicle of Louis Vuitton (LVMH), since 2018, with Goicoechea retaining a 20 per cent stake.

“We’ve the capacity to open another 100 restaurants in Spain,” said Goiko’s chief executive Alejandro Hermo, who came to the chain a year ago from McDonald’s Spanish subsidiary.

Goiko ended 2024 with €140 million in sales, similar to 2023’s results despite opening seven new restaurants, and Hermo now foresees 2025 sales of between €145 and €150 million.

BBVA chairman Carlos Torres is confident that the bank could maintain 2024’s level of profitability.

In a letter to shareholders, Torres also defended the hostile Banco Sabadell takeover bid, which he preferred to call a ‘union’, maintaining that it was “a great opportunity for customers, employees and shareholders of both banks, as well as society as a whole.”

Announcing more than €5 billion in dividends and buybacks, the BBVA chairman promised more dividends ‘sustained over time’ if the Sabadell takeover were allowed to go ahead.

THE world’s fourth-largest hotel group, IHG, is negotiating with El Corte Ingles to open a luxury hotel in Madrid’s ‘golden mile’.

Qatar Rail with the ICC in December 2017, initially claiming approximately €400m, while the railway company submitted a counterclaim of €265m.

The ICC announced on March 4 that Qatar Rail should compensate the consortium with €314.9 million, of which €95 million goes to OHLA, which had a 30 per cent stake in the joint venture.

The building on the corner of Calle Goya and Calle Conde de Peñalver, which belongs to the department store chain, has possessed a hotel licence since May 2022, according to sources quoted by financial daily, Cinco Dias.

The US company chain already manages a Madrid luxury hotel, the Intercontinental belonging to the Qatar sovereign fund, and owns three hotels in Mallorca, Barcelona and Marbella.

BROWNSEA CASTLE in Dorset, which was built for Henry VIII, has been leased from the National Trust by John Lewis since 1963.

Until now the castle has been run as an hotel for the Partnership’s 70,000 staff members who pay a subsidised £59 (€70.49) a night, although the company recently obtained planning application approval to allow the general public to stay there.

The company owns five more hotels where partners, their families and friends can stay, but sold its golf course in 2023 as John Lewis recognised the need to ‘return to sustainable profits’ following its losses during the pandemic.

SHARE prices for Europe’s arms manufacturing companies shot up as the markets foresaw higher spending on defence.

British company BAE Systems’ shares climbed 15 per cent on March 3 as European allies pledged to secure a peace deal for Ukraine. Both France’s Thales company and Italy’s Leonardo saw their shares rise by 16 per cent, Germany’s Rheinmetall shares went up 14 per cent. The FTSE 100 closed at a record high of 8871.31.

Photo credit: Flickr/Dan Lundberg

MSHEIREB: Smart district in Qatar’s capital Doha.

PANAMA CANAL: Strategically important shortcut between Atlantic and Pacific.

Photo credit: CC/Hufton and Crow

3I Group 3.818,00 3.852,40 3.810,00 128,63K

Group 3.007,0 3.040,0 3.000,0 34K

Airtel Africa 144,90 148,00 144,80 300,55K

American 2.334,5 2.391,0 2.327,5 133,78K Antofagasta 1.791,50 1.848,50 1.783,91 60,81K Ashtead Group 4.440,0 4.564,0 4.430,0 61,64K

British Foods 1.919,5 1.937,0 1.918,0 46,27K

11.806,0 11.944,0 11.798,0 206,34K

Trader Group Plc 788,80 789,60 784,00 81,37K Aviva 535,21 538,40 533,97 365,27K

B&M European Value Retail SA 270,73 275,04 270,10 242,51K BAE Systems 1.566,00 1.580,50 1.552,50 1,26M

291,80 300,60 289,50 7,59M

Redrow 429,40 435,60 428,70 577,46K

Beazley 888,00 894,00 885,50 127,63K

Berkeley 3.642,0 3.674,0 3.638,0 19,93K

BP 416,60 417,50 414,15 2,51M British American Tobacco 3.137,0 3.146,0 3.120,0 307,8K BT Group 158,45 159,10 154,10 2,89M

3.058,0 3.100,0 3.056,0 46,08K

147,03 148,75 146,40 1,23M

3.469,5 3.484,8 3.444,0 48,46K

2.624,00 2.624,00 2.599,00 193,75K

498,00 506,60 495,90 391,31K

Entertainment 19.040,0 19.165,0 18.875,0 9,95K

641,00 649,50 641,00 8,45K

832,50 853,50 829,90 111,41K

316,10

Urgent Update for Those with Unregulated Funeral Plans

Recent reports indicate that Iberian Funeral Plans may have stopped operating, leaving many individuals uncertain about what will happen to their pre-paid funeral arrangements. If you find yourself in this situation, we truly understand your concerns and are here to offer support.

While we continue to collate information, this situation serves as an important reminder of the dangers associated with purchasing funeral plans from providers that lack proper regulation.

The Importance of Choosing a Regulated Funeral Plan

If your funeral plan is with a regulated provider, you can rest assured that your investment is safe. In Spain, Portugal, and Cyprus, there are currently only two funeral plan providers that are fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA):

• Golden Leaves

• Avalon Funeral Plans

Both companies operate under strict UK financial regulations, ensuring that your money is protected by the Fi-

nancial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). This is the same system that secures UK bank accounts up to £85,000.

If a regulated provider were to close, you would still be covered and guaranteed either:

• A funeral plan of equal value, or

• A full refund based on current market prices.

However, unregulated funeral plans do not offer this level of protection. If an unregulated provider ceases trading, there is no safety net, meaning you could lose your money and your funeral arrangements may never be fulfilled.

Q&A: The Dangers of Unregulated Funeral Plans

Q: Why are unregulated funeral plans unsafe?

A: Funeral plans that are not regulated offer no financial security. If the company fails, your money could be lost, leaving your loved ones with no guarantee that your funeral will be covered.

Q: The salesperson seemed trustworthy—should I still be worried?

A: Yes. Some unregulated funeral plans are sold by pushy or persuasive salespeople who use high-pressure tactics. These sellers aren’t monitored by regulators, which means they can make big promises without backing them up. If the company goes under, there’s no safety net to protect you.

Q: What’s the difference between a regulated and unregulated plan?

A: A regulated funeral plan is protected by financial safeguards, ensuring that even if the company closes, your funeral costs are still covered. An unregulated plan has no protection, meaning you could lose your money with no compensation.

Q: How can I tell if my funeral plan is regulated?

A: Always check whether the provider is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and whether their plans are covered by FSCS protection. If they don’t have these safeguards, they are unregulated and high risk, Golden Leaves and Avalon Funeral Plans are the only two regulated providers currently operating in Spain, Portugal, and Cyprus.

What Should You Do If You Have an Iberian Funeral Plan or Another Unregulated Plan?

If you have a funeral plan with Iberian Funeral Plans or any other provider that is not regulated, it is vital to act quickly to protect your future arrangements.

To assist those affected, we have launched the Lifeboat Assistance Initiative, offering guidance and support to help you transition to a safe, regulated funeral plan.

For more information call us today: 966 493 082

Lighten up a bit!

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

IN response to the lady reader who suggested I ‘lighten up a bit’, this week I truly will strive to oblige. So here it goes.

There we were; the two of us, laid out on a deserted Saudi beach miles from anywhere and suddenly surrounded by a number of kaftan-clad men; a scruffy bunch who had soundlessly materialised out of nowhere and now stood atop a number of nearby sand dunes, simply staring and oozing menace.

This situation had arisen back in the seventies, when I was endeavoring to bring western entertainment into Saudi Arabia. Residing and working in the country for some eight years, one thing I had learned to accept was the utter inequality of the ladies.

On this particular day, in complete contradiction of Muslim law, I’d secretly driven my British Saudia Airline hostess girlfriend to a deserted beach some 50 kilometres north of Jeddah. We’d parked the car near the

sea and finally stretched out in the privacy of a secluded area we thought to be miles from any habitation. Wrong.

After some half an hour I had opened my eyes and drowsily became aware this was indeed not the case at all. We were surrounded.

Knowing the attitude and laws of a country that considered females second class citizens, and also having heard rumours of missing female crew members being found buried in the desert, I fully comprehended that we were in real danger.

A beautiful girl, clad merely in a bikini, would undoubtedly be considered trash and easy pickings, while an unaccompanied white foreigner could be permanently removed with a minimum of problems. Time for some exceeding diverse actions.

Without moving my head, I quietly whispered the dangers to my now comfortably ensconced female companion. Due to her airline status, she was effectively astute and duly proceeded to follow my extremely furtive proposals. I told her to slowly get up and without lifting the towels or any picnic items, move casually over to the car as though she was retrieving

something. I then told her to call me to help. This she did.

When I heard my name, I also stood up and moved leisurely over to the car. On reaching it I opened my door and, as she was already in the passenger side, jumped in. Quickly slamming both doors of the American Chevy, we basically took off. Not quite the takeoff she was used to, but one that was certainly necessary.

In front of us, streaming onto the rough track making wild gestures and shouting were a whole mob of swarthy, unkempt desert tribesmen. What could I do? I simply kept driving straight at them. We plunged through the crowd and in clouds of sand and dust thankfully burst free. Believe me, had we not, I wouldn’t be here to write this piece. (Hurrah!)

I do realise, of course, this is not much of a ‘lighten up’ this week, but at least I got away with it and lived to tell the tale. I actually consider that pretty light, agreed? No? Ah well, each to his/ her own.

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Glacier of the month

THE United Nations has named 2025 the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation and has set March 21 as World Glacier Day every year, starting in 2025. To support this, researchers at Stockholm University are launching a project called “Glacier of the Month” in March 2025. This project will showcase images and insights about glaciers around the world.

The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of glaciers in the climate system, water cycle, and their impact on the environment, economy, and society.

Stockholm University’s Department of Physical Geography has a long history of glacier research. Their work includes field studies in Antarctica, Greenland, the Canadian Rockies, Norway, and Sweden, with a focus on longterm monitoring at Tarfala in Sweden.

For the first “Glacier of the Month” feature in March, the spotlight is on Blåmannsisen Glacier in Norway. Associate Professor Ian Brown shares his first experience there: “We approached the glacier from the south in winter using snowmobiles. Its massive size and stunning scenery were overwhelming. It stretched endlessly under a bright blue sky.”

Research at Blåmannsisen began in 1998 and lasted over 10 years. Scientists studied how radar waves interact with different layers of snow and ice. They also researched the nearby Salajiekna Glacier.

Glacier of the month.

‘The Bell People’

EVERY year, in the Greek mountain village of Distomo, a centuries-old tradition brings locals and visitors together in a raucous celebration.

Known as the ‘Koudounaraioi’, or ‘The Bell People’.

Participants don animal skins and heavy bronze bells in a chaotic yet symbolic ritual. This carnival, with roots tracing back to ancient Dionysian festivities, is more than just a party - it’s a way to shake off burdens, celebrate life, reset, and welcome the arrival of spring.

Held on the final day of Greece’s carnival season before the start of Lent (this year, March 3), the Bell People stomp through Distomo’s streets, their loud bells and chants filling the air. The ritual, once practised by ancient agrarian societies, was designed to ward off evil and misfortune. Today, it serves as a cultural pressure valve, allowing participants to momentarily cast aside daily struggles.

“We give society a jolt … and try to take away their misfortunes, their problems, to lift their spirits so they can feel something,” Giorgos Papaioannou, the head of Distomo’s Bell People, told AP News.

Even cemeteries become part of the revelry. Participants make noise to ‘wake up’ the spirits of the dead. The tradition, long associated with farming communities, was later incorporated into the Christian calendar, aligning with the start of Lent.

Say bye to Skype

GET ready to say goodbye to the app that kept you connected to family and friends in the 2000s.

Over 20 years after its first launch, Microsoft has announced Skype will become unavailable on May 5, 2025.

Niklas Zennström from Sweden and Janus Friis from Denmark released the communication app back in 2003. Skype was the first service that made it free to call and make video calls internationally. Fourteen years ago, it was acquired for $8.5 billion by Microsoft. Skype has slowly taken a decline with other big names in the communications world, like Zoom and Teams being chosen ahead of it, particularly during the national lockdowns that made communication apps a lifeline for many people.

Microsoft said: “In order to streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs, we will be retiring Skype”

Those people who still use Skype will be able to use their log in details to access Microsoft Teams’ free tier, which Microsoft are saying will usher in “their next chapter.”

In a post to their blog Microsoft gave their Skype users some advice about the upcoming changes, “Export your Skype data. If you prefer not to migrate to Teams, you can instead export your data including chats, contacts, and call history. Skype said users have “time to explore Teams and decide on the option that works best for them.”

Skype was the first free to call service.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock Yalcin

WHO reveals hearing loss statistics

THE World Health Organisation (WHO) has highlighted an alarming rise in hearing loss, warning that by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people will experience some degree of hearing impairment.

Of these, over 700 million are expected to require rehabilitation. The increasing prevalence, linked to factors such as loud noise exposure and ageing, has serious health, social, and economic implications worldwide.

Currently, more than 430 million people globally need rehabilitation for disabling hearing loss, with nearly 80 per cent of them living in low- and middle-income countries.

The WHO also warns that over one billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening habits, including prolonged exposure to loud music,

ESSENTIAL oils have long been used to enhance well-being, with certain scents known for their uplifting effects. Whether diffused, applied with a carrier oil, or added to a bath, these natural extracts can provide a welcome boost to both mind and body.

Citrus oils, such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit, are particularly effective in lifting spirits. Their

such as clubbing, and the misuse of personal audio devices, such as ear pods.

Unaddressed hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline, social isolation, and mental health issues. The WHO estimates that the global economic cost of unaddressed hearing loss reaches nearly $1 trillion (€954 billion) annually.

Despite its prevalence, hearing loss can often be prevented through public health measures such as immunisation against infections like meningitis and rubella. Occupational and leisure safety to reduce noise and chemical exposure is also important.

Once identified, hearing loss can be managed effectively with hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive devices, speech therapy, and sign language training.

The best coverage

AS skin matures, its needs change, making the right foundation essential for a smooth, radiant complexion. Older women should opt for formulas that enhance hydration, provide a natural finish, and avoid settling into fine lines and wrinkles.

A hydrating liquid

nes, making the skin appear older than it is.

A lightweight, buildable coverage foundation is preferable, as heavy formulas can look cakey. A tinted moisturiser, BB cream, or serum foundation offers a fresh, youthful appearance while evening out the

skin tone without feeling heavy or greasy. For application, using a damp makeup sponge ensures a seamless blend, preventing the foundation from settling into fine lines and wrinkles. Applying a hydrating primer beforehand can also improve the foundation’s longevity.

dations containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides to keep skin plump and moisturised throughout the day. Avoid matte or heavy formulas, which can accentuate dryness, texture,

Boost your mood

bright, zesty aromas stimulate the senses and promote a sense of energy and positivity. Bergamot, often found in Earl Grey tea, has a fresh yet calming scent that can ease anxiety while enhancing mood.

Lavender, widely recognised for

its relaxing properties, also helps combat stress and mental fatigue. For those feeling emotionally drained, peppermint and eucalyptus provide a refreshing burst of clarity, clearing mental fog and improving focus. Meanwhile, ylang-ylang offers a sweet, floral

Lastly, a foundation with SPF helps protect aging skin from sun damage and premature ageing. With the right foundation, older women can achieve a glowing, youthful look that enhances their natural beauty effortlessly.

fragrance that helps reduce tension and encourage a sense of joy.

Aromatherapy works best when combined with mindful breathing and relaxation techniques. Incorporating these uplifting scents into daily routines can provide a simple yet powerful way to enhance emotional well-being and restore balance.

Boosting sleep Ease the pain Best of both

GETTING adequate sleep is essential for overall health, and diet plays a significant role in achieving restorative rest. Incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods can help regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality.

A balanced diet emphasising lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats provides key vitamins and minerals that support natural sleep cycles.

Foods rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that serves as a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, are particularly beneficial. Turkey, dairy products, and nuts offer tryptophan and can be effective when included as a light evening snack.

Magnesium-rich foods such as leafy greens, legumes, and seeds contribute to muscle relaxation and a calmer nervous system. Complex carbohydrates like oatmeal and quinoa stabilise blood sugar levels and promote restful sleep. Limiting caffeine and sugar intake, especially in the later hours of the day, further enhances sleep quality.

Staying well-hydrated with water and herbal teas is also important for sleep health.

A HORMONAL headache is a type of headache triggered by fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen. These headaches are most common in women and often occur before, during, or after menstruation, as well as during pregnancy, menopause, or when using hormonal birth control.

Estrogen plays a key role in regu- lating brain chemicals like serotonin, which affect pain perception. When estrogen levels drop- such as before a period, after childbirth, or during menopause - these chemical imbalances can trigger headaches or migraines. Also, hormonal birth control can lead to headaches by altering estrogen and progesterone levels.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include throbbing pain, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and fatigue. In some cases, they can develop into menstrual migraines, which are more intense and longer-lasting.

To calm a hormonal headache, try staying hydrated, as dehydration can worsen symptoms. Applying a cold compress to the forehead or resting in a dark, quiet room can also help reduce pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can be effective, but for chronic cases, a doctor may prescribe hormone-stabilising treatments.

Lifestyle changes such as managing stress, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and eating balanced meals can also help prevent hormonal headaches.

THE age-old debate between showers and baths comes down to personal preference, but each has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Showers are generally more time-efficient and use less water, making them the eco-friendly choice. A five to 10-minute shower at a moderate temperature - around 3738°C - is ideal for cleansing the skin without stripping natural oils.

Cooler showers, between 30-35°C, can boost circulation and invigorate the body. However, prolonged exposure to hot water can lead to dryness and irritation, especially for sensitive skin. Baths, on the other hand, offer a more indulgent experience, helping to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation. A soak at around 37-40°C for 15-20 minutes can ease stress and improve circulation. Adding bath salts or essential oils enhances the experience. However, baths require significantly more water, and sitting too long in very hot water (above 41°C) can lead to dehydration or dizziness.

Ultimately, showers are best for daily hygiene, while baths provide a therapeutic esca

Stirred and shaken...

DO you wake up in the middle of the night like you’re in a James Bond movie, but not from espionage - more like from a bad dream, followed by a parade of worst-case scenarios? That relentless stream of thoughts, partying all night, refusing to let you sleep. Suddenly, you remember - you didn’t turn off the gas heater! Maybe you’re slowly being poisoned by odourless gas, killing you softly with... well, notso-softly. But hey, at least it’s dramatic.

On a serious note - Roberta Flack passed away. May she rest in peace. A true legend.

Back to the night terrors... Normally, they creep in when you sleep with the lights off. I used to think it was just me, but nope - turns out, everyone’s in on this late-night anxiety party. I don’t usually get them, but when I do, I REALLY do. These feelings aren’t just for childhood nightmares. And guess what? They don’t go away easily. The more I learn about life, the more I realise these are the gifts that keep on giving. Turn on the news for five minutes, and you’ll get insomnia for two decades. Oh, and don’t even get me started on my home country. I might as well wear a paper bag on my head.

The mind never takes a day off. At 3am, it’s like a 24-hour convenience store of negativity. Why do we always default to the bad stuff? Did I pay the insurance? What if the house catches fire? Did I leave the car lights on? What if the internet goes down and I can’t finish that show?! Yada yada. It’s like a hamster on a caffeine binge.

I read something yesterday: Overthinking steals your life, your happiness, and your smile. And I’d add - it

FROM COAST TO COAST

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

steals your good night’s sleep too. Worse, it sabotages your morning, your whole day, your holidays... your entire existence. Keep it up, and next thing you know, it’ll steal your girlfriend!

So here’s my remedy for those wakeups: I focus on the positive ‘what ifs’. Instead of ‘What if something bad happens?’ I replace it with, ‘What if my friend, whom I haven’t seen in 10 years, calls to say they’re visiting this summer?’ or ‘What if the money I make from selling my bike pays for a holiday in Morocco?’ What if I win the lottery? What if I get the job... oh no, not that. Be careful what you wish for, right?

What if you picture yourself in the best possible circumstances? What if you start seeing yourself living all the good things you’ve dreamed of? I think that sets the tone for an amazing day ahead! I look in the mirror and say, ‘Good morning, you beautiful thing!’ (Sometimes, an alternative fact is all that keeps my self-esteem alive!) - not that ‘Ugh, coffee’ zombie look. Don’t give bad thoughts the time of day. Fanfare yourself, dip your soul in the best thoughts, and imagine the most wonderful version of you. Let yourself be stirred and shaken by the fact that ‘the best is yet to come’... unless, of course, the Wi-Fi goes down. But hey, then we’re all just living in a post-apocalyptic dream world together!

Bookings down

SANTORINI, the jewel of the Cyclades, is feeling the uncertainty this summer as holiday bookings have dropped by 23 per cent compared to the same time last year. The island’s usually thriving tourism sector is showing early signs of strain, with airline seat schedules also down by 9 per cent, according to the latest figures as reported by Greek outlet Kathimerini.

A series of recent earthquakes in the surrounding maritime area have made some travellers think twice about booking their slice of Santorini paradise. While early predictions had tourism chiefs bracing for worse, economic experts in the sector now say the impact is ‘limited’ and could improve if seismic activity continues to stabilise.

Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni struck an optimistic tone at the ITB Berlin 2025 tourism fair, telling reporters that ‘the latest data show seismic activity in the region of Santorini has no-

ticeably dropped, and life on the island is returning to normalcy, closely following scientists’ guidance and directions’.

Despite the dip in demand, Santorini’s famously high prices have remained stubbornly untouched. Hoteliers are holding firm, expecting a rebound as the season progresses.

More clarity is expected in the coming weeks when travel agencies finalise their payments to hoteliers and airlines.

Authorities aren’t taking

any chances. A joint ministerial decision will soon enforce new safety measures, including temporary access restrictions to areas at higher risk of landslides. Among the biggest changes?

The island’s iconic cable car could remain out of action for the entire year while crucial stabilisation work is carried out.

Other popular spots, including Ammoudi and parts of Thirasia, are also likely to face restricted access due to increased landslide risks following the quakes.

Spain’s carnival kaleidoscope!

SPAIN’S carnival season’s in full swing! Beyond the well-known revelry of singing, dancing and processions, are you familiar with the rich histories and lesser-known traditions these festivals are rooted in?

Originating from the indigenous Guanches, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has evolved through centuries of cultural fusion. During periods of political repression, notably under General Franco’s regime, the festivities were ingeniously rebranded as ‘Winter Holidays’ allowing traditions to persist clandestinely. A distinctive feature is the election of the Carnival Queen, where contenders don elaborate costumes weighing up to 100 kilograms, showcasing the island’s commitment to grandeur and artistry.

Situated along the Catalonian coast, Sitges is celebrated for its exuberantly colourful carnival steeped in Catalan mystique and the town’s artistic heritage. The flamboyant ‘Rua de la Disbauxa’ and ‘Rua de l’Extermini’ parades highlight both Sitges’ commitment to diversity and its longstanding tradition as a haven for artists.

Renowned for its sharp wit and satire, the Carnival of Cáadiz excels with its ‘chirigotas’: musical ensembles that perform humorous, often provocative songs about current events. This tradition reflects the city’s historical spirit of resilience and free expression.

More than just spectacle, these carnivals reflect the rich cultural tapestries of their regions, inviting us all to delve deeper into Spain’s diverse heritage. Enjoy!

Finally, many thanks for all emails to my website! So pleased you enjoy my column - and novels!

Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers,

Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

SUMMER BLUES: Holiday bookings drop 23%.

QR price revolution

IN a bid to tackle sky-high supermarket prices, politicians are championing a radical plan to scrap the requirement for product labels to be in Dutch. The controversial move could soon see groceries labelled in English, German, or French, complete with quick-response (QR) codes offering all the essential details in whichever language shoppers prefer.

While shoppers in the Netherlands watch grocery bills soar, their neighbours in Germany and Belgium often pay less for the same products. Frustrated MPs have now come together to find a fix. But it hasn’t exactly been plain sailing: although all parties agree something must be done, how best to do it is a point of heated debate.

The PVDAGroenLinks party, led by Jesse Klaver, believes the solution is right under their noses - hidden in plain sight of

European regulations. Klaver has proposed an amendment to the Warenwet (Dutch Food and Commodities Act) to allow labels in languages other than Dutch. He argues the current rules are stricter than necessary and says that a multilingual approach - plus a nifty QR code - could take a small margin off consumers’ weekly shopping total.

Some in the sector are also backing the QR code idea, suggesting it could streamline labelling and help rein in supermarket margins. For those worried about understanding labels, Klaver insists English, German, and French are widely known in the Netherlands, plus each QR code would open a gateway to Dutch-language details on a website.

School phone ban

DENMARK is set to introduce a nationwide ban on mobile phones in schools and after-school clubs, following recommendations from a government commission on youth well-being.

According to reports, the legislation will require all primary and lower secondary schools (folkeskole) to be phone-free, affecting students aged between seven and 17.

This decision marks a policy U-turn for the Danish government, which had previously resisted such a ban.

The initiative stems from research conducted by Denmark’s Well-being Commission, established by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in 2023 to examine the impact of digitalisation on children’s lives. The commission’s report, published on February 25, highlighted the negative effects of screen time on children’s well-being, social development, and academic focus.

The report called for a ban on mobile phones in school settings and advised against giving children under 13 their own smartphones or tablets. The findings re-

vealed that 94 per cent of young people had a social media profile before turning 13, and children aged nine to 14 spend an average of three hours daily on platforms including TikTok and YouTube.

Danish Education Minister Mattias Tesfaye confirmed that mobile phones and tablets would be prohibited both in lessons and during breaks, though exceptions will be made for students with special educational needs.

Several European nations have already introduced measures to limit children’s access to smartphones and social media.

QR supermarket price revolution: Will new label rules slash your shopping bill?

Credit: Shutterstock, jittawit21

Ban will affect students between seven and 17.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Activists reject boar cull

IN a recent press release, PACMA, the Spanish animal rights party, is expressing their absolute rejection at the proposal of Marbella council contracting archers to cull wild boars.

According to the group, it is a cruel, ineffective, and dangerous’ method of dealing with the wild animals that are invading city streets and roadways.

PACMA warns that culling the animals is counterproductive, as the wild pigs are pack animals, by killing members of their group, they increase the fertile productivity, PACMA recommends the use of the Gonacon vaccine, which reduces the fertility of the creatures.

SCAES, the company contracted to control boar numbers, noted that the number culled is very low, perhaps 2 or 3 per year, as they only select the dominant male of each group.

Both parties agree that boar numbers are increasing , they just need to agree on what to do.

Axarquia Protecting the sea

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA officially established its CREAMAR volunteer group. This initiative is part of the Marine Protection Network, a project led by the Aula del Mar Foundation, which the municipality of Rincon joined in 2025.

The registered participants received training on the necessary skills to carry out environmental conservation actions along the local coastline.

“This marks the first step following the agreement signed by our mayor, Francisco Salado, with the Aula del Mar Foundation to strengthen marine protection in our municipality,” said Sergio Díaz, Councillor for Beaches.

As part of the initiative, volunteers will conduct a guided assessment of the biodiversity in the El Cantal Cliffs. Efforts will also focus on protecting and restoring marine ecosystems, particularly in La Cala del Moral.

The Marine Protection Network is a structured environmental volunteer platform dealing with marine threats and restoration projects.

Mallorca Under scrutiny

MALLORCA’S iconic beach bars, or “chiringuitos,” are undergoing a significant transformation as the Balearic government moves forward with plans to demolish 15 of them along Playa de Palma. The government is now focusing on sustainable tourism, hoping to attract a higher-spending, family-oriented crowd instead. While many locals and officials back this shift, others express concerns about losing a vital element of Mallorca’s cultural identity and tourism appeal.

This move is part of broader efforts to address mass tourism’s environmental impact while preserving the essence of the island’s traditional offerings. The change highlights a push towards responsible tourism that prioritises quality over quantity, aligning with the Balearic government’s long-term goal of promoting sustainable development. With tourism shifting towards a more balanced model, there are hopes this will help safeguard the island’s natural beauty for future generations.

Costa Blanca South Costa Cruise Boom

ALICANTE had an incredible year for cruise tourism in 2024, welcoming a record-breaking 234,659 passengers, an impressive 19.7 per cent increase from the previous year.

Officials expect 2025 to be even better, with around 250,000 visitors, making Alicante an even stronger player in Mediterranean cruises.

In total, Alicante’s port will host 100 cruise stops in 2025, with the busiest months being April and October. The city will also see double-stop days, where two cruise ships arrive at once, as well as a massive triple-stop on August 1, bringing nearly 12,000 tourists in a single day.

With record numbers expected, Alicante is set for another outstanding year in cruise tourism. The final large cruise ship of the year will arrive on December 31, closing out a historic season and setting the stage for even more success in the future.

Almeria Embracing Solar

THE province of Almeria is making significant strides in renewable energy adoption through the DUS 5000 Plan

THIS initiative has led to the installation of solar photovoltaic systems across more than 50 municipalities, representing a total investment exceeding €6 million. The project is a major step forward in promoting clean energy solutions in rural areas, improving sustainability.

The DUS 5000 Plan, managed by the Institute for Diversification and Saving of Energy (IDAE) and co-financed by the European Union’s NextGenerationEU funds, focuses on municipalities with populations under 5,000. It supports projects that enhance energy efficiency in public buildings and infrastructure. By prioritising small municipalities, the programme ensures that rural areas can benefit from modern, cost-effective solutions.

In Almeria, the plan has already facilitated the implementation of over 350 solar photovoltaic installations for self-consumption.

Costa Calida Drought Relief

THE first week of March brought heavy rain to the Region of Murcia, adding over 30 cubic hectometres (hm³) of water to the Segura River’s reservoirs. After months of drought, total reserves have now climbed above 250 hm³, giving farmers hope for fewer water restrictions in the coming weeks.

Officials are set to review water limits for irrigation, with many expecting cuts to be eased or removed. Spring is also forecast to be wetter than usual, which could further improve the situation.

The rainfall hasn’t just helped farmers, it’s also benefiting forests and aquifers. Areas like Mula and Bullas have already seen three times more rain than last year, which could slow the decline of pine and other trees.

Meanwhile, water levels in the Tagus River are high enough to allow transfers without cuts until at least 2026. While some areas saw damage from the storms, the rain also brought some relief to the drought issues.

WW2 bomb halts trains

WEEKEND travellers have had their plans derailed after an unexploded Second World War bomb was discovered in the early hours of Friday morning (March 7), forcing Eurostar to cancel all trains between London and Paris until at least midday.

Track workers made the startling find at around 4am near Saint-Denis, just north of central Paris. Bomb disposal experts immediately rushed to the site, sparking a flurry of cancellations and setting thousands of passengers on edge.

Gare du Nord - one of Europe’s busiest train hubs - was thrown into disarray, with large queues of stranded passengers seeking updates on their travel plans. Services to northern France were halted too, and while a limited schedule was expected to resume in the afternoon, the knock-on effect threatened to linger well into the day.

Eurostar warned on social media of “disruption to our services this morning,” advising travellers to change their journey dates if possible.

In a statement, the company confirmed:

“Due to an object on the tracks near Paris Gare du Nord, we are expecting disruption to our services this morning. Please change your journey for a different date of travel.”

With Friday marking the busiest day of the week for holidaymakers, many hopeful weekend trippers faced the prospect of lengthy waits or last-minute changes of plan.

Eurostar is offering customers whose trains have been cancelled the choice of a refund or a voucher equal to the value of their original booking. Re-booking on an alternative service is also permitted once routes fully reopen.

Meanwhile, travellers bound for Brussels can breathe a sigh of relief: trains between London and the Belgian capital remain unaffected.

Michelangelo’s day

MARCH 6 is an important date in Italian Renaissance art history as Michelangelo was born 550 years ago and a special ceremony took place in Florence.

At 10am (Italian time) a number of invited guests took part in a ceremony to honour the master artist at the Buonarroti family tombstone under which this genius was buried.

Organised by the Opificio delle Pietre Dure and Opera di Santa Croce, a special project was undertaken whereby the marble inlay of the tomb which was damaged by time and the flood of 1966 was completely restored.

The ceremony saw the laying of a triple laurel wreath dedicated to the creator of such incredible works as the Statue of David and the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican

The Buonarroti family established an altar at Santa Croce in 1570, six years after the death of Michelangelo, whose funeral monument in the church was designed by Giorgio Vasari.

The restoration of Michelangelo’s tomb is part of a wider programme of initiatives in Italy to mark the anniversary of the Renaissance master

whose influence on the development of Western art was unparalleled. By standards of the time, Michelangelo (birth name Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni) lived a long and fruitful life reaching the venerable age of 88 and was the first Western artist whose biography was published while he was alive.

Chaos as WWII bomb halts Eurostar trains between London and Paris.

Credit: Shutterstock, Symeonidis Dimitrios

The team that restored Michelangelo’s tomb.

Credit:

Opificio delle Pietre Dure

PETS

Milou loves playing with the cat-sitters

MILOU has lived in many countries with her owner Jill and always loves receiving cat-sitters at home. Every cat-sitter who visits plays new games, and she loves that. Jill uses HouseSitMatch to find her checked house-sitters. They must love cats!

HouseSitMatch saves you money

We promote collaborative exchange through our managed online system - free accommodation for free pet care! It’s a real win win!

HouseSitMatch is safe - all members are checked

All members are checked for safety, and you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence.

Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed

All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed.

If you’re planning to travel this year, join now. Get organised today:

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se-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

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Unbelievably good service! HouseSitMatch take the worry away from leaving your dog. Lamia and her team helped me through the whole process of finding the right sitter for my slightly nervous dog.

HouseSitMatch’s professional approach and secure platform allowed me to have confidence in the people who applied to look after my dog. All sitters are checked and referenced before they can approach available ‘sits’, so I found it easy to select the person based on their likelihood of getting on with my pet and our home location.

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

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Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!

Leading choice

CHOOSING the right lead (leash) for your dog is essential for safety, comfort, and control. With so many options available, it’s important to select one that suits your dog’s size, behaviour, and walking style.

Consider the material : Leashes come in various materials like nylon, leather, and rope. Nylon is lightweight and durable, leather offers strength and comfort, and rope leashes are great for strong pullers.

Choose the right length : Standard leashes (four-six feet) provide good control for everyday walks, while longer leads (10-30 feet) are useful for training or giving dogs more freedom. Retractable leashes can be convenient but may pose safety risks in crowded areas.

Check the clip and handle : A strong, secure clip prevents accidental detachment, and a padded handle improves comfort, especially for larger dogs that pull.

Match the leash to your dog’s behaviour : A no-pull harness with a front-clip leash can help control strong pullers. Reflective leashes are great for night walks.

Choosing the right leash ensures safer, more enjoyable walks for both you and your dog!

pet owner

KEEP an eye on your pet. This way, you can keep them from getting into car accidents, fights with other cats or dogs, being taken, or prevent them from being exposed to harmful substances.

Milou is a friendly cat and just loves getting to know new cat-sitters.

ALARMS

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Road rage fines

LOSING your patience while driving is common, and many drivers express their frustration through shouting or exaggerated gestures. However, while these actions may feel cathartic, they can have consequences.

Although offensive gestures and verbal insults are not explicitly outlined as offences in the General Traffic Regulations, they aren’t entirely without risk. If a traffic officer witnesses aggressive behaviour, they may impose penalties for related infractions.

Road rage-related penalties

While insults alone won’t land you a fine, other road rage behaviours can. Here are some actions that could cost you:

• Improper horn use - Using the horn to reprimand another driver can result in an €80 fine. In urban areas, the horn should generally only be used in emergency situations or to avoid an accident.

• Obscene gestures - If you extend your arm outside the vehicle while making a gesture, you could receive an €80 fine - not for the rude gesture, but for the action of sticking your arm out the window, which is

prohibited. However, if you keep your hand inside the vehicle, you’re technically in the clear.

• Arguments inside the vehicle

- If a heated argument with a passenger distracts you, reducing your focus or vision, you may violate Article 18 of the General Traffic Regulations. This could result in a fine ranging from €80 to €200. Keep your cool, and your money

Frustration behind the wheel is understandable, but expressing it recklessly can lead to fines or even dangerous situations. While insults alone may not result in a fine, any behaviour that distracts the driver or violates traffic regulations can lead to penalties. To protect both your wallet and your safety, it’s best to remain calm and composed on the road.

Hyundai fire hazard warning

A NEW warning from RAPEX, the European Commission’s rapid alert system for dangerous consumer products, has highlighted a potential fire hazard in certain Hyundai models. According to the system’s official warning, ‘some vehicles could leak brake fluid internally, potentially causing a short circuit that may lead to a fuse box overheating and a subsequent fire’.

Interestingly, this brake fluid fiasco mirrors the same defect previously reported in Kia vehicles

European Commission issues fire hazard alert.

Hyundai fire hazard warning: Is your car on the list?

from the same timeframe. Both Hyundai and Kia are part of the same automotive group, which explains why the fault may appear across mul-

tiple brands and models.

If your Hyundai’s model and production year match any of those listed below, your best move is to confirm whether your specific car is on the list of recalled vehicles. Contact Hyundai directly or speak to an authorised dealer. A quick phone call or web enquiry can determine if your car needs a closer inspection or a free-of-charge repair. Better safe than sorry - especially when it comes to potential fire hazards.

Owners of the following Hyundai models should pay special attention: Santa Fe, H1, and IX55 (2007-2014). Accent, Tucson, Genesis, and IX35 (20092014).

The alert applies to certain units produced between those years, though the exact number of affected vehicles in Spain remains unknown. Early estimates suggest as many as 50,000 cars could be involved if the issue extends to all models from that production period.

Keep an eye on official updates from Hyundai and the European Commission’s RAPEX site.

If your model is affected, book a free service appointment for inspection or repair. It’s a small step for peace of mind on the road.

If in doubt, check it out.

Aggressive behaviour can have consequences.

Credit: Shutterstock, otomobil

THE ORIGINALS - RENAULT’S NEW SERVICE FOR ENTHUSIASTS AND COLLECTORS

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

WE’RE used to more premium manu facturers establishing parts and refe rence services for out of produc tion classic models. However, there’s an increasing number of mass-market car makers following suit. The Originals Renault la Collection is laun ching a new initiative with a range of services for collec tors of historic Renault vehicles. Available from a new website (ht tps://theoriginals-services.renault. com/), these services are aimed at enthusiasts all over the world, providing them with solutions to service, repair and restore their classic cars.

At the same time, the brand is an nouncing the certification of 25 Renault after-sales sites in 2025. These sites will cover 80 per cent of France, with the aim of enabling all collectors to find an expert less than 100 km from their home. Eight sites are already open to collectors. Backed by experts from the Renault network, the initiative is set to

Arnaud Belloni, Renault’s Global Chief Branding Officer for Renault said “We are deploying new services developed specifically for enthusiasts and collectors of classic Renault vehicles, allowing them to service, restore and maintain their automotive treasures. It’s a way of

verify vehicle compliance, enabling owners to obtain a classic vehicle registration document, alongside certificates showing the date on which their vehicles left the factory, with the chassis number, engine and gearbox numbers, colours and options.

Today, collectors can also find spare parts through a network of Renault after-sales sites, selected for their expertise in classic vehicles, as well as through the brand’s long-standing partners specialising in areas such as sports cars, upholstery and mainstream cars. Further, 50 repair manuals from the Renault archives are available free of charge on the new site, alongside a number of online educational tutorials to help collectors service and repair their classic Renault cars. The Originals Renault Garage is rolling out this service in France with a network of eight sites that are already trained and ready to welcome customers. Ultimately the objective is to gradually expand this service to 25 sites across France, covering 80 per cent of the country, enabling collectors to find an expert within 100 km of their home. The next step will be to expand this offering internationally, extending the network of after-sales sites to other countries. Log on to www.theoriginals-servi ces.renault.com

FIFA’s $1 billion prize

FIFA’s money train is steaming ahead - and it’s making a stop at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup with a record-smashing $1 billion in prize money up for grabs. It’s the biggest payday in club football history, and it’s got the sport’s biggest names licking their lips.

FIFA has unveiled plans to revolutionise the Club World Cup, expanding it to 32 teams and dangling an eye-watering prize pot that dwarfs even the men’s and women’s World Cup payouts.

The tournament, set to kick off in June 2025, will see footballing giants from across the globe battle it out over seven matches in the United States - with the ultimate champions set to take home a fortune.

The fine details on

how FIFA is funding this extravagant overhaul remain under wraps, but the governing body has been busy inking lucrative sponsorship and broadcasting deals to bankroll the event.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will

sey’s MetLife Stadium - the same venue set to host the 2026 World Cup final. With clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Inter Miami all set to take part, the 2025 Club World Cup could mark a new era for football. Whether it creates a level playing field or just further lines the pockets of football’s elite remains to be seen.

FIFA’s $1 billion Club World Cup prize: Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid, Pep Guardiola’s Man City, and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami stand to cash in.

Ringo Chiu