Costa Blanca North 17 - 23 July 2025 Issue 2089

Market momentum

CONSTRUCTION, real estate and tourism are the sectors driving job growth most strongly in Alicante, according to a recent study. The number of permits for new builds has risen by 74 per cent in the province, compared to a 19 per cent increase across the rest of Spain. Foreign buyers now account for 40 per cent of all property sales. Yet despite this surge, ‘not enough is being built’, experts warn.

Currently, there are around 100,000 homes under construction in Alicante, according to the Institute of Economic Studies of the Province of Alicante (Ineca).

The Costa Blanca has not only weathered recent global instability - from inflationary pressures to Trumpera trade turbulence - but is now showing what Ineca describes as ‘excellent’ figures in the first quarter of 2025. According to its newly published Socioeconomic Outlook Report, Alicante

Province stands out for its robust growth in employment, with construction, property and tourism taking the lead.

The surge in new build permits reflects renewed confidence in the sector. Even so, supply remains far

behind demand. Property prices continue to rise, with the average home now costing €190,075 - up €22,561 over the past year.

This is partly because the Costa Blanca continues to attract buyers from abroad - as investors, as second-ho-

me owners, or as retirees seeking sunshine and a Mediterranean lifestyle. In terms of volume, the province ranks third in Spain for property transactions, with a year-on-year increase of 10.4 per cent, behind only Madrid and Barcelona.

Costa Blanca North • No. 2089 • 17 - 23 July 2025 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ LIVRE ILMAINEN G F GRATIS GRATUIT G DARMOWY D

Free beachfront screenings Bulls in the sea

A NEW edition of Cinema a la Mar, Calpe’s open-air summer film series, kicks off with free movie screenings by the sea throughout July. Organised by the local council, the event once again transforms the town’s beaches into starlit cinemas for all ages.

The popular initiative will run every Tuesday and Thursday, alternating between La Fossa beach and Arenal-Bol, with a total of six screenings aimed at family audiences. This year’s programme includes a mix of animated hits and light-hearted Spanish comedies, featuring titles

such as Kung Fu Panda 4, Campeonex, Trolls 3 Todos Juntos, El Arca de Noé and Menudas Piezas. All screenings will begin at 10.00pm and admission is free.

Part of Calpe’s wider summer cultural programme, Cinema a la Mar aims to offer an accessible and family-friendly leisure option for both locals and tourists, while contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of Calpe’s coastline during the high season.

Complete programme:

Thursday July 17 - Trolls 3 Todos Juntos, Arenal-Bol beach

Tuesday July 22 - El Arca de Noé, La Fossa beach

Thursday July 24 - Menudas Piezas, Arenal-Bol beach.

THE town square of Denia filled with animal rights activists holding lifebuoys - not for people, but for bulls. The symbolic gesture marked a renewed protest against Els Bous a la Mar on Sunday July 6, a traditional bull-running event held annually. Organised by PACMA, Spain’s Animalist Party, together with local group Denia Animal Save, the demonstration drew dozens of protesters from across the country to denounce what they describe as a ‘cruel and unnecessary spectacle’.

PACMA: “It’s political hypocrisy of the highest order.”

Luna condemned the presence of children in the audience, calling it “a form of indoctrination into violence.”

PACMA president Javier Luna was present, warning that “stressed bulls are forced to throw themselves into the sea, risking drowning,” and accusing the local council and the Generalitat Valenciana of promoting animal cruelty under the guise of cultural heritage. The protest culminated in a walk to the portable bullring installed near the waterfront, where

The Bous a la Mar festivities, recognised as a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest, consist of bulls being chased through the streets before being lured or pushed into the harbour, often by provocateurs known locally as arriscadors. While the event is said to blend excitement with tradition, animal rights advocates argue it is nothing short of institutionalised abuse.

Healthcare registration

Eligibility and steps to enrol

SPAIN offers a high-quality public healthcare system, but access depends on specific conditions. To register with a doctor (médico de cabecera) and receive state healthcare, you must be employed, self-employed, or otherwise contributing to the Spanish social security system.

You can access public healthcare if you are working or self-employed in Spain, receiving a Spanish state pension or certain benefits, or are a dependent of someone who qualifies. Others, such as early retirees, must obtain private health insurance or apply to the Convenio Especial, a pay-in scheme offering full coverage for a monthly fee.

To register, first obtain a Social Security Number. This is provided through your employer or can be applied for at the TGSS if you are self-employed. Next, register on the padrón at your local town hall to prove your address. Then, visit your local health centre with your Social Security certificate, padrón certificate, NIE or passport, and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are from the EU. You will be issued a health card granting access to general practitioner services.

Short-term lets go legal

Stricter rules for online listings

STARTING this month, a new EU regulation mandates that owners of short-term rental properties, like Airbnb, register with the Single Rental Registry to advertise online. Approved in January, this registry assigns a unique identification number for all ads to enhance transparency in Spain’s booming sector, with around 400,000 tourist accommodations.

Non-compliance risks property removal from online platforms, which must delist non-registered properties within 48 hours of notification. Fines range from €2,000 to €500,000, varying by region and violation severity. Recently, Madrid’s High Court supported removing non-compliant Airbnb listings, and Booking delisted over 4,000 accommodations.

Before qualifying for state healthcare, EU citizens can use their EHIC temporarily, signing a form at each visit.

Non-EU residents must have private health insurance until they become eligible.

If you wish to change doctors, you can submit a request at your health centre. If you move, you must re-register at your new local health centre with an updated padrón. Spain’s healthcare system is accessible and reliable, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

Know your flight rights

Spanish travellers can claim compensation

YOU arrive at the gate with a confirmed booking, only to be told there’s no seat. It’s not a cancellation - it’s overbooking, and it’s legal in the EU. Airlines routinely sell more tickets than seats, assuming some passengers won’t show. When that doesn’t happen, travellers are left behind - often unaware they are entitled to compensation.

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers denied boarding against their will are owed €250 to €600 depending on flight length, as well as hotel accommodation, meals, and re-routing where needed. However, consumer groups such as FACUA report that these rights are frequently overlooked or withheld. A 2022 AirHelp survey found that only 36 per cent of eligible passengers in Spain actually filed a claim.

In Spain, the process of claiming compensation can be especially difficult. Some airlines require forms in Spanish or demand extra paperwork. Others delay responses

or direct customers to third-party platforms. Many fail to inform passengers of their entitlements at all. To protect yourself, ask immedia tely whether the denied boarding was voluntary. Re quest the EU261 no tice at the gate. Do not accept vouchers wi thout checking if they waive your right to cash compensation. Keep records - boar ding passes, messages, screenshots - and file a claim through AESA or a legal service.

In 2024, a couple in Madrid success fully sued Vueling after being denied boarding and offe-

red only partial credit. The court awarded €1,700 plus interest and legal fees - showing what’s possible when passengers assert their

Knowing your rights is the first step to ensuring you’re not left out of

Andalucia leads with 49,397 registration applications; only a third of its 147,000 listed properties remain compliant. The Digital Single Site for Rentals streamlines registration, connecting landlords, platforms, and public administrations. Property registries verify suitability.

To register, owners need a Unique Registration Number by completing an online form via the Electronic HQ of the College of Property and Commercial Registrars of Spain. Required details include property address, cadastral reference, use type, capacity, and owner information (name, DNI/NIE, tax address, contact details). Supporting documents, like municipal licences or sworn statements, must confirm compliance with national, regional, and local regulations. After verification, the registry issues the code for legal online advertising.

Spain rolls out e-policing

New portal streamlines complaints

FROM July 9, Spain’s Guardia Civil drags petty-crime reporting into the smartphone age: victims of pick-pockets, card fraud or six other minor offences can lodge an online complaint in minutes using a digital certificate, Cl@ve PIN or e-DNI. The 24/7 ON-RED back-office validates each report in real time, reducing paperwork, speeding up bank refunds, and allowing officers to focus on more serious investigations. This eliminates the need to visit a police station in person, particularly during the summer months when queues can be lengthy.

The new service, accessible at sede.guardiacivil.gob. es, covers a range of common minor offences that frequently affect residents and tourists alike. These include simple thefts such as stolen mobile phones, wallets, and laptops - often the result of distraction tactics in busy public areas. It also applies to property damage, vehicle theft, and theft from inside a vehicle. Financial offences, such as unauthorised card charges, are covered as well, along with the reporting of lost or mislaid documents, and the handover of found documents. Each report must involve losses under €10,000 and is subject to verification. A digital certificate, Cl@ve PIN or e-DNI is required to access the portal. For those without digital access, police stations remain open and the emergency number 062 continues to operate.

To register,

Photo credits: Freepik

Spain’s overbooking problem leaves many holidaymakers in limbo.

€28 million budget

Open water race Serra Gelada secrets revealed

SWIMMERS looking for a summer challenge can now sign up for the 29th edition of the Travesía al Puerto de Moraira, an open water swimming race set to take place on Sunday August 3.

The event will bring together up to 250 participants aged between 18 and 69, who will swim the 1,852-metre route between El Portet beach and l’Ampolla beach.

Entries can be made via the official website www. somesport.com . Swimmers already registered in the 2025 Marina Alta Open Water Circuit were given early access, with 120 places reserved for them since Tuesday July 8. General registration was open on Thursday July 10, and will remain available until all 250 places are filled or until July 31, whichever comes first. The entry fee is set at €15.

On the day of the race, swimmers are asked to check in from 745am at the entrance to El Portet beach. The first wave, for male participants, will begin at 9.00am, followed by the women’s wave at 9.10am.

Moraira’s Sports councillor, Josep Ivars, encouraged residents and visitors alike to take part, describing the event as “a route that follows our coastline and connects two of our beaches.”

Over €1.39 million will also be invested in the promotion of culture, education and employment.

ON Friday July 11, the local council of l’Alfas del Pi approved its municipal budget for 2025 during an extraordinary plenary session. The new budget amounts to €28,021,601 and was passed with votes from the ruling PSOE party, while the PP and VOX councillors voted against it.

According to government spokesperson Toni Such, the budget has been drafted with no initial deficit, as required by law, and includes a 23.7 per cent increase in investment without the need for new borrowing. “We’ve drawn up a responsible and realistic budget that strengthens social policies and guarantees quality public services,” he said after the session.

One of the main priorities of the new budget is the well-being of local residents, with €2.1 million allocated to social welfare and €2.4 million to public safety.

SINCE Friday July 12, the Espai d’Art La Casilla has been hosting a new exhibition focusing on one of the least-known corners of the Serra Gelada Natural Park: the former ochre mine in the cove of Ti Ximo.

More than €1.39 million will also be invested in the promotion of culture, education and employment, funded entirely through grants aimed at mixed employment and training programmes designed to improve professional skills and support access to the labour market.

The budget maintains the municipality’s strategy of securing and deploying European funds. L’Alfas continues to implement its Tourism Sustainability Plans from 2022 and 2023, with a combined value of over €4 million.

Entitled The ochre labyrinth, the exhibition by Benidorm-based photographer Jaume Fuster presents 54 images that unveil some of the secrets and human traces hidden within this disused mine, which remained in operation until at least 1973. The event attracted a large audience at La Casilla, including several members of the local council; other recipients of the Ciutat de Benidorm distinction; descendants of the last miners to have worked in the mine – Enrique Orts Orts, Paquita Orts Devesa and the family of the late Antonio García Picó, known as ‘Charly’; the University of Valencia professor and speleologist Alberto Sendra; as well as the artist’s own family and friends. The ochre labyrinth will be open to the public until November 23 at the Espai d’Art La Casilla, located at 25 Emilio Ortuño Street. The exhibition can be visited from Thursday to Sunday, between 6.00pm and 10.00pm.

A summer tradition on the Costa Blanca.

Credit: Ayuntamiento

Alfaz del Pi

Credit: Ayuntamiento Teulada

Fuster’s work takes viewers deep inside the ochre mine of Ti Ximo cove.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Benidorm

Zero abandonment of pets

THE Department for the Environment, Infrastructure and Territory of the Valencian Community has announced grants totalling €1,150,000 aimed at organisations working in animal welfare and protection, as well as those dedicated to biodiversity conservation, environmental preservation and habitat improvement.

BENIDORM City Council has approved the first round of grants for 2025 aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and the creation of new businesses. A total of €14,000 has been distributed among 14 newly established enterprises, with each receiving between €700 and €1,000 to help launch their economic activity.

Mónica Gómez, the councillor for Employment and Local Development, explained that this initial allocation forms part of a broader municipal funding line, which this year totals €78,500.

The objective, she said, is “to stimulate economic growth and job creation in our city” by backing local entrepreneurs.

To qualify for the funding, applicants must be newly registered self-employed professionals with a fiscal address in Beni-

The regional secretary for the environment and territory, Raúl Mérida, stated that this marks, for the second consecutive year, “the highest amount the Generalitat has allocated to support environmental and animal welfare organisations.”

According to the Official Journal of the Generalitat Valenciana (DOGV), these grants are

open to organisations involved in the protection and defence of companion animals, as well as associations and foundations whose main objective is the conservation of biodiversity and the balance of ecosystems.

Among the supported initiatives are volunteer programmes to assist elderly people in caring for their pets, providing help

to animals belonging to individuals who are hospitalised and have no family support, and aiding vulnerable individuals in looking after their pets.

In the same vein, the grants also support animal-assisted therapy for people in care homes and hospitals, as well as care for pets belonging to individuals who have died without family.

Up to €1,000 for start-ups

dorm, and must have initiated their business activity between October 1, 2024 and September 30, 2025. While residency in Benidorm is not mandatory in all cases, those not registered as residents must at least operate a business licensed by the city.

Applications for this year’s grants remain open

until December 31, 2025 and must be submitted through the online portal ( https://sede.benidorm. org ).

In order to access the funding, entrepreneurs must register as self-employed with a fiscal address in Benidorm and begin their activity within the aforementioned timeframe.

Those not registered as residents must at least operate a business licensed by the city.

Credit: Diego Delso / Creative Commons

Among the supported initiatives are volunteer programmes to assist elderly people in caring for their pets.

Reggaeton Beach Festival

THE Reggaeton Beach Festival once again proved a huge success during its stop in Benidorm this July. The sixth edition of the festival reaffirmed Benidorm’s position as a national and interna-

tional hub for this musical genre, which draws thousands of fans. In Benidorm, each day of the event saw an attendance of 18,000 people at the Hermanos Martínez Munuera football grounds,

located within the Guillermo Amor Sports Complex.

Once again, no significant incidents were reported during the festival. According to the Department of Public Safety, minor traffic delays occurred at the entrance to the venue on Saturday due to the large crowds, although these were swiftly managed by the event organisers. Beyond that, there were no noteworthy incidents, and only routine minor medical inter-

ventions were required - mostly due to the high temperatures recorded on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Authorities also praised the generally respectful behaviour of attendees inside the festival grounds.

The mayor of Benidorm, Toni Pérez, paid a visit to the event and took the opportunity to speak with the senior queens and ladies-in-waiting, who were keen not to miss the occasion. The mayor also greeted the

organisers and met some of the performing artists, in addition to vi-

€1,000 for volunteer firefighters

ON Wednesday July 9, the Freemasons of Javea Lodge No. 40 hosted a lively and entertaining Race Night at Casa de la Pizza in Costa Nova, drawing a crowd of 50 members, friends and local supporters. The fun-filled evening, centred around virtual horse racing, managed to raise an impressive €1,050 in aid of the Balcón al Mar Voluntarios Firefighters.

The event was organised with the aim of supporting the dedicated team of volunteer firefighters, who now serve the entirety of Javea, far beyond their original Balcón al Mar base. The lodge’s Worshipful Master, Alex Wilkins, underlined the importance of the cause:

“Supporting our local firefighters is so important - they need essential equipment to keep us safe, and every euro helps.”

The firefighters’ team leader,

Mark Richards, attended the event alongside group leader Ian McCarthy and vice commander Darrel Jones. The trio shared insight into the challenges the team faces, particularly in terms of funding. While the town hall contributes around 20 per cent of their operating costs, the

remaining 80 per cent must be covered by community donations and sponsorships.

Anyone interested in learning more about Freemasonry or in becoming involved should get in touch with Matt James at sec@glpvalencia. com or visit www.glpvalencia.com.

RBF

siting the 2025 festival committee’s stall located in the food truck area.

One of the largest summer music events in Spain.

W.Bro. Alex Wilkins, Mark Richards (left), with Ian McCarthy and Darrel Jones.

Emotional well-being programme €20 million for wildfire prevention

FROM the start of the 2025/2026 academic year, schools in Denia, La Xara and Jesus Pobre will have the opportunity to implement a pioneering programme designed to support emotional well-being and prevent addictive behaviours among pupils aged six to 16. The initiative, developed by the Community Prevention Unit for Addictive Behaviours (UPCCA) of Denia Town Hall, is part of a joint effort by the regional ministries of Health and Education to integrate socioemotional learning

and healthy lifestyle habits across the entire span of compulsory education.

Public and semi-private schools that choose to participate will be able to adopt one or more of four age-appropriate programmes aligned with international standards and based on scientific evidence. The curriculum has been split into two main stages:

For primary school pupils:

Contes per a conversar (Stories for talking), aimed at Years 1 and 2.

L’aventura de la vida (The adventure of life), for Years 3 to 6.

For secondary school pupils:

Unplugged, for Years 7 and 8 (1st and 2nd ESO).

Life skills and adolescence, aimed at Years 9 and 10 (3rd and 4th ESO) and Basic Vocational Training.

The programmes are designed to be taught directly by teachers as part of the regular school curriculum, with technical support from the UPCCA team.

THE Valencian government is reinforcing its wildfire prevention efforts in 2025 with an investment of more than €20 million, aimed at consolidating a preventive surveillance system that is considered unique within Spain and a pioneer internationally.

Managed by the Department for the Environment, Infrastructure and Territory in collaboration with the public company Vaersa, the system is designed to anticipate and reduce wildfire risks through deterrent surveillance, early detection of outbreaks and continuous monitoring of weather and terrain conditions.

It was first developed in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires of 1994, which destroyed more than 138,000 hectares of land. Today, it stands as a robust and highly responsive structure capable of tackling any emerging threat swiftly and effectively.

Currently, the network comprises 464 professionals and 259 operational assets deployed across the entire Comunitat Valenciana. The deployment includes 65 forest watchtowers, 138

prevention units, 10 safety zone maintenance teams, provincial and regional coordination structures, as well as advanced technological tools such as the SIGIF information system. The service is further supported by a technical analysis unit, training teams, volunteer programmes, and aerial resources including helicopters and drones.

This comprehensive infrastructure has already produced remarkable results. While three decades ago the region registered over 700 wildfires annually, the figure for 2025 so far stands at just 114.

Designed to be taught directly by teachers.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Denia

This infrastructure has already produced remarkable results.

Beach project for functional diversity

THE social welfare department of Denia Town Council is once again teaming up with Amadem - the Marina Alta-based NGO supporting mental health - to relaunch the summer programme Con los pies en la arena (Feet in the Sand),

a project designed to bring people with functional diversity closer to the natural, accessible and therapeutic setting of the beach.

Running since Monday July 15 to Friday August 30, the initiative will take place on Punta del Raset beach every weekday from 9.00 to 14.00. It o ers an adapted leisure space with a variety of dynamic, aquatic

and recreational activities speci cally tailored to promote integration and enhance participants’ quality of life.

According to Amadem, the bene ts of the project extend far beyond the individuals directly involved. Families and carers also receive valuable respite, safe in the knowledge that their loved ones are in the hands

of trained professionals and quali ed support sta .

“This project gives us the chance to pause our routines, reconnect with the environment, laugh together and live fully in the present,” said Luisina Davies, a psychologist at the organisation. “It creates a safe, inclusive and enriching space where that can really happen.”

Natural park reopens

WATER quality tests carried out by the Department for the Environment have once again con rmed the safety of the bathing areas. With the necessary authorisation from the Directorate-General for Environmental Quality and Education, part of the Department for the Environment, Infrastructure and Territory of the Generalitat Valenciana, Callosa d’en Sarria Town Council has o cially reopened the Les Fonts d’Algar natural park for swimming.

The reopening took place on Saturday July 12, following an intensive e ort. The Department for the Environment has certi ed the safety of the

waters once more, while the company Proaguas continues to carry out daily quality checks on behalf of the local council. In addition, the General Community of Irrigators and Water Users of Callosa d’en Sarria has made an exceptional contribution by providing an extra supply of water.

The natural park had been closed since Thursday July 10 after a water test yielded unsatisfactory results. This was due to the presence of naturally occurring microorganisms in stagnant water pools further upstream, which had been carried down by rainfall earlier in the week.

Chance to pause our routines, reconnect with the environment.

Credit: Amadem

Environmental awareness

THE fifth edition of Reciclar para ConserMar has arrived in Calpe. This beachside recycling awareness campaign is led by Ecoembes - the organisation that has been working to protect the environment and promote packaging recycling in Spain for over 25 yearsin collaboration with the Regional Department for the Environment, Water, Infrastructure and Territory.

The initiative is based on direct, face-to-face engagement.

Reciclar para ConserMar seeks to encourage citizens to dispose of plastic, metal and carton drink packaging in the yellow bin, and paper and cardboard in the blue bin, to enable proper recycling and draw attention to the need to combat ‘basuraleza’ - the abandonment of waste in natural environ-

ments such as the coast.

The initiative is based on direct, face-to-face engagement with beachgoers, informing them of the environmental benefits of recycling. It also

helps them improve how they separate waste correctly and clears up any doubts about where and how to dispose of specific items, ensuring they are recycled properly no matter the place or situation.

One of the key features of this year’s edition is its focus on young children enjoying their summer holidays on beaches across the Valencia region, as well as those attending summer schools.

The campaign will run until July 25 across 21 coastal towns and cities in the provinces of Valencia, Alicante and Castellon.

Beaches temporarily closed

ON Tuesday July 15, Denia Council announced the temporary closure of three beaches - Les Marines, Punta del Raset and Molins - after water samples revealed faecal contamination levels more than twice the permitted limits.

The results came from a routine analysis conducted on Monday July 14 by the regional Bathing Water Quality Service.

In response, swimming was banned at the affected beaches, and the blue flags indicating safe conditions were removed. Lifeguards and Local Police were tasked with informing the public and evacuating bathers from the water.

The official statement from the town hall of Denia confirmed that new tests are already underway and that the beaches will remain closed until water quality returns to safe levels.

New 1-kilometre

fitness trail

BENIDORM has created a new one-kilometre training zone for runners, walkers and outdoor fitness enthusiasts in the urban park of El Moralet. The track, which follows one of the park’s main routes and runs on flat terrain, begins (or ends, depending on direction) near the Guillermo Amor Sports City.

The initiative is the result of joint work by the municipal departments of Sports, Environment, Employment and Parks and Gardens, and has been carried out by participants of the employment workshop Benidorm Natura i Esports. The new fitness trail, already open to the public, is a straight track running north of the city’s main sports facilities towards the Poniente area. It features distance markers every 100 metres, allowing users to keep precise track of their progress. As noted by councillor for Sports, Javier Jordá, this is especially useful for “athletes aiming

Health experts warn that contact with contaminated water can cause gastrointestinal issues, skin and ear infections, and other complications, especially in children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. The World Health Organisation urges the public to respect temporary bans to avoid health risks.

Despite the incident, similar situations in other towns of the Comunidad Valenciana - such as Gandia and Benicassim - have been resolved swiftly through coordinated local action, often allowing beaches to reopen within days.

Denia authorities are also investigating the causes of the contamination and preparing measures to prevent recurrence.

to improve their times or for individuals training for physical tests required for civil service entrance exams, for example.” He added that more training routes could be signposted or adapted in the future if requested by users.

The works to adapt and mark the trail were carried out by students on the Benidorm Natura i Esports employment workshop, a year-long training programme for 20 unemployed people.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Calpe

Similar situations in other towns have been resolved swiftly through coordinated local action.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Denia Facebook

Mass swim with The Beatles

A TOTAL of 400 swimmers - the maximum allowed for the event - took to the water on Sunday July 14 at Levante Beach in Benidorm for the seventh edition of the province’s most rock’n’roll open-water swim: the Heartbreak Benidorm Swim, organised by Club Deportivo Finisher in collaboration with Benidorm Town Council’s Sports Department.

To the rhythm of legendary songs by The Beatles which accompanies participants from start to finish, the participants set off at exactly 9am and swam across the sea until just before 11am, when the final swimmer reached the shore to a warm round of applause from organisers and spectators.

ALCOY Town Council recently hosted the launch of BUSCO, a new public bus network designed to enhance transport links across the comarcas of Alcoia, El Comtat, and Marina Alta. Vicente Martínez Mus, councillor for Environment, Infrastructure and Territory, introduced the service to local

The councillor for Sport, Javier Jordá, not only supported the Club Deportivo Finisher in organising the event but also swam the 2,900-metre course alongside two fellow members of the local government, Ana Pellicer and Francis Muñoz. They were later joined by the mayor, Toni Pérez, and other members of the council for the medal ceremony.

In the men’s category, once again, young swimmer Miguel Bou Bernabeu from Vila Swim Fondistas came in first, with a time of 00:36:42.

Miguel Bou Bernabeu from Vila Swim Fondistas came in first, with a time of 00:36:42.

Among the women, the first to complete the course was Leire Santacreu Voigt from CN Benissa, with a time of 00:45:16.

New bus network

mayors on Monday July 14, emphasising its focus on efficiency and sustainability.

Operated by Vectalia, BUSCO includes 11 regular lines that extend service hours, increase frequency - including weekends - and add new stops. Importantly, on-demand services have been introduced for smaller rural towns, improving access for communities that previously lacked reliable connections.

Hybrid buses are being

deployed on main routes, cutting emissions and supporting the Generalitat’s green mobility goals. The key Alcoi–Muro line now runs every 30 minutes, enhancing travel convenience.

Users can continue using their existing tickets and passes, making the transition smooth without disrupting travel routines.

Twelve interior towns, including Benifallim and Tollos, benefit from flexible transport options,

€7,000 for best

SPANISH sculptor Luciano González

Díaz has been named the winner of the second edition of the Villa de Calp National Sculpture Competition with his work Los sueños rotos (‘Broken Dreams’). His piece was selec ted from a pool of 25 entries submitted by 14 artists from across Spain. The winning sculpture was chosen following a preselection process, as outlined in the competition rules. An expert jury assessed all the proposals and ultimately awarded first prize to González Díaz’s evocative and thought-provoking model. He will receive a €7,000 prize and now has three months to bring his design to life, using du rable materials suitable for

where residents can request rides ahead of time during less busy periods. This rollout coincides with the renewal of major interurban transport contracts across Alcoia, El Comtat, L’Alacanti, and Vinalopo, covering more than 1.4 million people. The initiative aims to reduce the gap between well-served urban areas and more isolated inland communities, creating a more balanced and accessible public transport system across Alicante Province.

sculpture

permanent outdoor display.

Organised by Calpe Town Council’s Department of Culture, the competition aims to support and promote the work of sculptors while also contributing to the aesthetic and cultural enrichment of the town’s historic centre. The winning piece will be permanently installed in a public space within the old town and will become part of Calpe’s municipal heritage collection. The exact location of Los sueños rotos will be determined by the department of culture once the sculpture is completed.

He will receive a €7,000 prize and now has three months to bring his design to life.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Calpe

Credit: Ayuntamiento Benidorm

ON Wednesday July 16, coinciding with the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the patron saint of sailors, Calpe police were equipped with a new six-metre semi-rigid vessel to strengthen and expand surveillance and safety operations along the town’s coastline.

New patrol boat Torrential rain Mass refund order

The acquisition, valued at €40,000, marked the creation of the Marine Coastal Surveillance Unit, made up of four specially trained officers. The unit carried out a range of control and support duties at sea, including beach patrols, detection of unauthorised vessels, monitoring of coastal fishing activities, and enforcement of jet ski regulations. The boat was also used in rescue operations and to assist boats or swimmers in difficulty.

During the summer season, the new unit operates daily from 10.45am to 7.00pm.

Until then, Calpe police had no maritime patrol capability of their own. The introduction of this vessel represented a major step forward in ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors, particularly during the busy summer months when coastal activity significantly increased.

pe, emphasised that “this investment reflected the town council’s commitment to equipping our police force with the neces-

sary resources to respond effectively to any situation and to improve coordination with other security and emergency services.”

A TORRENTIAL downpour disrupted Denia’s float parade on Saturday July 12, despite the event going ahead following several meetings between Denia Town Council and the local Fallas board. This was in spite of a yellow weather warning that remained in place until 9pm. The problem arose when Aemet later upgraded the alert to orange, forecasting up to 50mm of rain in an hour. Even so, the event - featuring hundreds of participants, many of them young people and children - was not cancelled.

The heavy rainfall struck at around 8.15pm. Those taking part in the parade scrambled for cover under umbrellas and building eaves. There were visible expressions of frustration and anger, as Fallas groups had spent months prepa-

JAVEA Town Council unexpectedly charged the annual waste collection tax to 20,224 residents with direct debit arrangements on Tuesday July 1, without prior notification or applying a promised discount.

The payment was due at some point, but the council had pledged to send out individual letters explaining the new rates and a moderate price increase before any money was withdrawn.

The error, revealed by the opposition Socialist Party (PSOE), has prompted public apologies from the mayor, Rosa Cardona, and the Finance councillor, Teresa Legay, both from the conservative Partido Popular (PP).

They announced that immediate

ring their floats, which were left abandoned and drenched in the streets of the town centre.

The weather forecast had predicted heavy rain across the Marina Alta region, which remained on orange alert into Sunday - and the forecast proved accurate.

From north to south along the Costa Blanca, intense rainfall was recorded in several locations: in Denia, large hailstones were accompanied by strong gusts of wind, thunder and lightning; in the waters off Javea, several waterspouts were sighted; and in Pedreguer, a lightning strike sparked a forest fire that was later extinguished by emergency services. Calpe also experienced significant rainfall.

action had been taken to rectify the situation: all 20,224 direct debits will be refunded, and residents will be properly notified before any further charge is made.

Crucially, the original charge also failed to apply the 1 per cent discount that residents receive when paying by direct debit.

Out of a total of 28,320 bin tax bills in Javea, 20,224 are processed automatically through banks. This mistake has overshadowed the council’s efforts to ensure a fair and minimal increase in line with new EU regulations.

These regulations require those who pollute more to pay more, and mandate that waste services must no longer operate at a deficit.

Ana Sala, mayor of Cal-

Until now, Calpe police had no maritime patrol capability of their own.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Calpe

WE have already discussed in previous articles the importance of making a will and establishing clearly how you want to deal with your assets when you pass away. It simplifies the procedure of the inheritance for the heirs. Avoids having to file a Declaration of Heirs before the notary. Etc. Today we address a question overlooked by many people and often asked by our clients. What happens to our will after a divorce or separation? Is it advisable to grant a new one? Is there such a thing as a ‘will for divorcees’?

When a divorced person dies… does the ex-spouse have any rights to the inheritance?

Is there any legal obligation to leave something to the surviving ex-spouse? The answer is clear. No. Once the separation, annul-

ment or divorce has been formalised, there is no legal obligation to include the former spouse in the will.

What if the deceased spouse was included in the will? Would he/she continue to be a beneficiary of the succession? According to the jurisprudence of the Supreme Court, not at all. Such a notorious change as a separation, divorce or annulment should be interpreted as sufficient to exclude the former spouse from the succession. However, to avoid unpleasant and difficult situations (such as the Notary having to demand a waiver to the ex-spouse) we always recommend our clients to grant a new will after a divorce.

Custody, parental authority and the problematic administration of assets

There is another aspect that

frequently worries people who have gone through a divorce, especially when the separation has not been amicable. That the surviving spouse may end up administering the property and money destined to the children.

Regardless of who had custody at the time of death, upon the death of one parent, parental authority automatically passes to the other one. This means that the living parent will be responsible for the administration of the assets destined to the descendants for the duration of their childhood. That spouse will have access to the bank accounts. Will be able to rent the real estate and collect the income. He/ she could even sell the real estate left to the children and spend the money, without too much difficulty (although the sale would require a judicial authorisation

that it is often granted). In this scenario, is there any legal way to protect the inheritance of the children and ensure that it will not be squandered by the surviving ex-spouse?

The figure of the administrator in Art. 205 of the Civil Code

The law foresees a figure that, indirectly, prevents the former spouse from administering the assets destined to the children. We are referring to the stipulation contained in Art. 205 of the Spanish Civil Code (in connection with Art. 164). The testator can appoint a person of his/her utmost confidence (a brother, a close friend, a relative, etc) to administer the assets upon his/her death. In this way, it would be the person chosen by the deceased, and not the other parent, who would oversee the estate inherited until the minors reach the

majority of age. However, in this scenario, it is very important to specify the functions attributed to the administrator in as much detail as possible.

If you have recently divorced or separated, we would strongly suggest you grant a new will. Please do not hesitate to contact us. We will study your case and offer you expert advice to ensure your wishes are expressed in the clearest and most efficient way possible, to be certain that your assets are passed on to your children in the conditions that you desire.

The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys information related to legal issues.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

Mixed beach football

REGISTRATIONS are open until Sunday July 28: Javea is set to host its first Beach Football Tournament from Wednesday July 31 to Friday August 2, marking the return of a sporting tradition once popular on the town’s coastline. Organised by a group of friends with the backing of CD Javea and the local department for Sports, the event promises three evenings of competitive matches in a festive summer atmosphere.

Matches will take place

from 7pm until midnight on the northern end of the Arenal Beach, next to the Fontana canal.

Organiser Vicente Ortolà said the tournament aimed to revive “a sporting tradition that used to take place years ago and was eventually lost. We want to shine a light on beach football, a sport with very little presence in the Marina Alta - especially compared with other neighbouring towns.”

Between 12 and 16 teams are expected to take part in

the competition, open to players over the age of 16. Each team must consist of 10 participants and can be all-male, all-female or mixed.

The tournament will begin with a league phase, followed by knockout rounds, semi-finals and a final.

Registrations are open until Sunday July 28 and can be completed via the tournament’s Instagram account or by contacting the organisers on 649 079 743 (as listed on the official poster).

Participants can be mixed.

Vueling connects Cordoba to 200 destinations

FLYING to London or Milan from Spain’s Cordoba Airport will soon be a reality, and although flights will not commence until this coming winter, Vueling has already put tickets on sale.

According to a news outlet,

Cordoba, starting in September, Vueling will launch routes to nearly 200 destinations with connecting flights via Barcelona’s International Airport, Josep Tarradellas.

Cordoba, which was once an important Roman city and

a major Islamic centre in the Middle Ages, is a city in the southern Spanish region of Andalucia, located approximately 167 kilometres (100 miles) north and inland from Malaga.

The new Vueling flights to

Barcelona are the result of an agreement that the Andalucia Minister of Tourism Arturo Bernal, the mayor of Cordoba Jose Maria Bellido, and the director of strategy and routes for the airline, Jordi Plan, signed, sealed and delivered

during the past edition of the International Tourism Fair in Madrid.

According to Pla, Vueling flights are scheduled to begin on September 18 with two weekly flights, on Thursdays and Sundays.

Spain supports Huawei

CHINESE tech giant Huawei has been blocked from participating in Spain’s 5G infrastructure but is still being trusted to manage the storage of wiretaps.

The Ministry of the Interior has awarded Huawei €12.3 million to supply high-performance servers for storing legal wiretap data from criminal and intelligence investigationssome of Spain’s most classified material.

Despite Huawei meeting Spain’s cybersecurity rules through the National Cryptologic Centre, not everyone is convinced. Internal sources from both the National Police and Guardia Civil have told The Objective that this creates a dangerous ‘strategic inconsistency’ - pointing to growing unrest within Spain’s law enforcement community.

Across Europe and the West, Huawei has faced bans and restrictions due

Huawei will supply high-performance servers.

to fears it could be used for Chinese espionage under Beijing’s National Intelligence Law of 2017, which allows the state to compel private companies to cooperate.

Germany recently struck a deal with its telecom giants to phase Huawei out of its networks by 2029. Portugal imposed a nationality-based block on non-EU and non-NATO suppliers. The

UK, Sweden, and France have all moved to exclude Chinese tech from their 5G cores.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has emerged as one of Huawei’s biggest EU supporters.

Huawei is also deeply tied into Spain’s public sector, having opened research centres in Madrid and serving as a contractor for multiple government projects.

Credit:

Andrey Matveev, Pexels

From office job to flamenco boss

SHE had no fashion degree, no business plan, and no clue how to make a flamenco dress - but that didn’t stop her.

Meet the woman who swapped the corporate grind in London for the sun-soaked streets of Granada and built her dream business from scratch, stitching flamenco costumes with zero experience and a serious attitude.

How a software developer swapped the city for the swirling skirts of Andalucia - and stitched herself a brand new life.

When Anke Herrmann asked herself a simple question one quiet evening

- “What would I do if there were no limits?”she never imagined the answer would lead to a ruffle-filled, sleep-deprived, joy-packed life as a flamenco dressmaker in southern Spain.

But that’s exactly what happened.

The German-born ex-programmer once cut code for a major bank in London.

Now she cuts fabric in the cobbled lanes of Granada’s Albaicin quarter, sewing vibrant, made-to-measure flamenco dresses for dancers across the globe. And she’s never looked back.

Herrmann’s journey from keyboard to corset is raw guts and grit, and

shows that going off the beaten track can pay off. Her story proves you don’t need a degree in design or a business plan approved by Dragons’ Den - just a vision, common sense, a bit of nerve, and the willingness to stitch through the sleepless nights.

Follow Anke’s journey: www.flamencodressma king.com

Got a story like Anke’s? We’d love to hear how you built your dream life in Spain.

Plan ahead, rest easy: Why expats

in Spain trust Golden Leaves

FOR British expatriates making a life under the Spanish sun, few matters feel as distant - or as overwhelming - as planning for the end. But in a country where funerals are arranged quickly and bureaucracy can be daunting, planning becomes not just smart, but essential. That’s where Golden Leaves steps in.

With over 25 years of supporting the expat community in Spain, Golden Leaves Limited has built a trusted reputation as one of Europe’s most secure and ethical funeral plan providers. Founded in 1984 and part of the respected Rowland Brothers group - established in 1873 - Golden Leaves has served British expats in Spain since the late 1990s, bringing a legacy of dignity, reliability, and care.

Speaking to Euro Weekly News , CEO Barry Floyd highlighted how the demand for prepaid funeral plans has

remained consistently strong.

“UK expats view funeral planning as practical and responsible,” Mr Floyd explains. “Spain’s system often requires funerals to be organised and paid for within 24 to 48 hours, which can be a major shock to British families used to the UK’s slower timeline. Our plans allow customers to arrange and prepay for everything in advance, removing the financial and emotional burden from their loved ones.”

But what sets Golden Leaves apart is its regulation by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) - a distinction shared by only one other provider operating in Spain. Customer funds are protected under the FCA’s rigorous rules, offering peace of mind in a sector where not all providers offer the same security.

“We’re proud to be FCA-regulated,” says Mr Floyd. “It means we’ve pas -

Sagrada Família tallest

IN July 2025, Barcelona’s skyline quietly changed. The central tower of the Sagrada Família officially became the city’s tallest structure, reaching 172.5 metres and overtaking the Torre Glòries. For many, it’s the most visible proof that Gaudí’s unfinished vision is finally taking shape - not through replicas, but through real stone and glass.

Work on the Sagrada Família began in 1882. Gaudí’s design imagined 18 towers, each linked to Christian themes. The tallest - the Tower of Jesus Christ - now stands completed in form, if not yet in finish. Its crown, a 17-metre mosaic cross, will be added by the end of 2025, with the full site expected to be finished by June 2026 - the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death.

The new height means it has also surpassed Germany’s Ulm Minster to become the world’s tallest

church.

Not everything is resolved. One of the last proposed façades - the ‘Glòria’ entrance - would require demolishing nearby housing blocks. That plan has stalled, sparking fresh debate about how to respect Gaudí’s intent while adapting to the modern city. At the same time, Barcelona has delayed public access to the new tower viewpoint until 2027 due

to safety concerns. While Gaudí’s full plans were never finalised, modern teams have used 3D scanning and modelling to interpret and complete the structure. It’s a project straddling centuries - built with 19th-century ideas and 21st-century tools.

More than three million people visit the Basilica each year, generating over €130 million annually.

sed 12 to 18 months of deep scrutiny, covering everything from financial health to staff qualifications and how we treat customers. If anything were to happen to us, our clients would be fully refunded via the FCA’s compensation scheme.”

That security is especially crucial in light of the recent collapse of Iberian Funeral Plans, an unregulated company that left more than 6,000 people without recourse. Golden Leaves avoids such risks by placing client funds into a separate trust, managed by independent trustees and entirely out of reach of creditors or company operations.

Golden Leaves partners with funeral providers across Spain, including long-established firms along the Costas, to ensure consistent, high-quality service. The company operates 24/7 and coordinates with its network to

arrange services seamlessly when the time comes.

The brand’s ethical stance, UK heritage, and long-standing ties with local providers make it a reassuring choice for expats who want to protect their families from future hardship.

Looking ahead, Golden Leaves is expanding its presence across Europe, with operations in the UK, Spain, Portugal, and Cyprus. Notably, the company is building Cyprus’s first crematorium - a bold step reflecting its commitment to serving diverse communities with foresight and innovation.

“Planning isn’t just about money,” Mr Floyd concludes. “It’s about protecting your loved ones from distress when the time comes. A regulated funeral plan brings peace of mind that lasts.”

Spain’s cash rules

TRAVELLERS heading to Spain in summer 2025 are discovering a problem no one warned them about: their cash isn’t always welcome. Reports have surfaced of genuine €50 notes being refused in shops, taxis, and cafés. The reason? Faint ink stains, often triggered by ATM security systems designed to thwart tampering.

Spanish businesses are becoming increasingly cautious, especially with higher denominations. While a €50 bill is still technically legal tender, many vendors reject them if the note shows even minor staining. Some tourists are also being turned away when notes appear slightly damaged - not ripped or fake, just worn or marked.

However, these notes usually come from ATMs themselves. Many Spanish cash machines use dye packs to stain banknotes during physical breaches. If a machine is tampered with or even misused during routine glitches, the notes inside can be marked with purple or blue ink. According to the Bank of Spain and the ECB, these bills can be exchanged if proven authentic; however, retailers aren’t obligated to accept them.

Tourists gather for a flamenco show in Sevilla’s Plaza de España.

Another issue catching travellers off guard is Spain’s €113-per-day entry requirement for non-EU visitors. While not new, enforcement is being made more visible in 2025, especially at airports like Malaga and Alicante. Tourists are being asked to show proof of funds - which can be in the form of printed bank statements, prepaid travel cards, or a mobile app screenshot.

The Sagrada Família’s central towers now dominate Barcelona’s skyline.

Barry Floyd | CEO

Kathrin Barone

Flight engine failure

End-of-Life Companion & Funeral Celebrant Planning your goodbye with meaning

Tel: +34 656 42 33 85

info@lastinglegacycostablanca.com

A DELTA flight from Madrid to New York made an emergency landing on a remote volcanic island in the Azores after an engine issue mid-flight. The aircraft, carrying nearly 300 passengers, was diverted to Terceira - a little-known military-civilian airstrip - after the crew flagged a serious fault. No injuries occurred, and the landing was safe.

But the detour triggered a long and uncertain layover that caught many off guard. Passengers found themselves stuck on the Portuguese island for more than 30 hours, with little communication and few updates.

Most had never heard of Terceira and assumed it was a short technical stop. Instead, they waited

in hotels arranged at the last minute by Delta, receiving only sporadic text updates during the delay.

A second aircraft was eventually dispatched from New York and arrived late on July 7 to retrieve the stranded travellers. Delta later apologised and offered compensation. While safety was never compromised, many passengers were left wondering why they had not been kept better informed.

This wasn’t a crash, nor a scandal. It was a test of what airlines do when the unexpected happens mid-ocean. The technology worked.

However, for many on board, it was the silence between landing and departure that felt the hardest to navigate.

New dangerous fire ant species

CLIMATE change and warmer weather in Spain have facilitated the arrival of an ant species from Latin America. When a fire ant stings a person, they will feel a sharp, burning pain. Multiple fire ant bites can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, swelling throughout the body, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, rapid heart rate and shock.

re allergic reactions and may even lead to blindness in your pet.

Cases have already been reported in Alicante, Malaga, and the Canary Islands, as well as in other Spanish locations.

A news outlet reported that high temperatures and international trade have made it even easier for the arrival of

it is dangerous!

this dangerous species in Spain. The fire ant is native to Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. It is considered one of the 100 most harmful species in the world, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (UICN).

MORE Spanish teenagers aged 16 and over are choosing to work during their summer holidays, taking up roles like dog walking, babysitting, or helping in cafés and shops. Rather than spending summer relaxing, many are using the time to gain independence, responsibility, and life skills while earning some money. Tourism season provides plenty of opportunities in restaurants, ice cream stalls, and shops, while others offer services like tutoring or pet care. Spanish law allows teens to work from 16 with parental consent, though

In summary, this ant species can cause seve-

Although its size is tiny (1.5 mm), its bite is excruciating and annoying. There have already been several cases in Spain of pets being attacked by this ant. Experts warn that if the bite reaches the eyes under any circumstances, people should seek veterinary attention immediately. Furthermore, the red fire ant can disrupt crops or irrigation systems by clogging them with its nests, as this species is capable of building dense underground colonies that alter the soil structure.

Summer jobs for teens

there are restrictions: no night shifts, overtime, or physically demanding work, and a maximum of eight working hours a day. They are also entitled to breaks and two full days off each week. Businesses face fines if they break these rules.

Popular summer jobs include helping at stables, summer camps, and local businesses, or providing informal services like house sitting or running errands. Social workers highlight that

these roles help teenagers build confidence, responsibility, and useful life skills such as time management and financial awareness. Many parents see summer jobs as an important part of growing up. For some teens, these early experiences can guide career interests and improve future job prospects, especially in a country where youth unemployment remains high and opportunities after education can sometimes feel limited or uncertain.

Flight 127’s unexpected landing in the Azores left passengers stranded for nearly 30 hours.

The red fire ant has arrived in Malaga, Alicante, Canary Islands and other locations in Spain. Beware,

Credit: cxjuanalvarez from pixabay via Canva.com

Lukas Jonaitis/Shutterstock

Sánchez faces accusations

DURING a searing exchange in Congress on Wednesday, July 9, Alberto Núñez Feijóo referenced Sánchez’s father-in-law’s past business dealings running sauna-brothels, claiming the prime minister ‘lived in an apartment paid for with money from prostitution’.

Sabiniano Gómez, father of Sánchez’s wife Begoña Gómez, previously ran gay-oriented sauna businesses in Madrid with his brothers, including Sala Adán and Sauna Azul, known for their sexual activity. Though he formally left these businesses in 2006, OK Diario reports that he may have continued managing them unofficially.

One such business-funded purchase allegedly includes the €700,000 family home in Pozuelo de Alarcon where Sánchez and Gómez lived before moving to La Moncloa.

Feijóo unleashed a barrage of accusations from the podium, addressing Sánchez directly:

“Who are you living with? What brothels have you been living in? You are a lucrative participant in the abominable business of prostitution,” Feijóo declared (as repor-

ted by El Español ).

Sánchez retaliated by listing past corruption scandals in the Popular Party (PP), suggesting Feijóo has built his career by ‘covering up irregular financing’ in the Galician PP.

He further accused Feijóo of trying to grant ‘self-amnesty’ to Ayuso’s boyfriend through a proposed tax error reform. Sánchez also revived old controversies, including Feijóo’s alleged ties to a known Galician drug trafficker:

“Of all of us here, the only one who has maintained a close relationship with a convicted criminal is you,” Sánchez said.

A shift in rural support

IN one of Spain’s quietest provinces, something unexpected has emerged. Soria, long marked by low population density and ageing residents, now appears to have a higher share of foreign-born recipients of the ingreso mínimo vital (IMV) than Spanish-born ones - at least proportionally. While total numbers are small, the balance is attracting attention to how state support is used in rural areas.

According to national averages, foreign natio-

nals make up around 17.6 per cent of IMV recipients, but in some provinces, early figures suggest their share may be higher. In Soria, one estimate places foreign-born residents at a third of all adult IMV recipients, even though they represent only 13 per cent of the local population. Official regional breakdowns, however, are limited.

Soria has under 90,000 residents and a small labour market, meaning every support measure carries weight. Local in-

tegration, employment access, and the role of town halls in monitoring progress could be key in ensuring the IMV remains effective - and fair. Experts suggest linking IMV to local training, using census data to match skills with job openings, and improving coordination between Seguridad Social and municipalities. Transparent, anonymised data by region could also help clarify who is being supported and why - not to justify policy, but to inform it.

Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez.

Credit: OSCAR GONZALEZ FUENTES, Shutterstock.v

Soria at dusk. The province has seen a shift in who receives Spain’s basic income aid.

NEWS Travel

Besalu - medieval streets, river views, and local flavours

BESALU, in the province of Girona, is one of Catalonia’s most atmospheric medieval towns. Known for its Romanesque architecture and well-preserved old centre, it’s a rewarding place to visit, especially for travellers touring the region by campervan. The town is small enough to explore in a few hours but has enough character and history to justify a longer stay.

There’s a dedicated campervan parking area less than 10 minutes’ walk from the town centre. It’s quiet, with basic services available, and provides a good base for visiting both Besalu and the surrounding region.

Heritage and history

One of the most iconic sights in the area, the 12th-century stone bridge over the Fluvià River immediately sets the tone - its irregular shape, views of the riverbanks and fortified tower create a dramatic entrance to the old town.

Besalu was also once home to a significant Jewish community, and visitors can see the remains of the medieval mikveh (ritual bath), one of the last few in Europe, and take a guided tour.

Local products

Besalu’s weekly market takes place every Tuesday in and around

of fresh produce, cured meats, local cheeses, olives, breads, and sweets.

In shops around town, you’ll also find handmade products like herbal liqueurs, honey, jam, and ceramicsideal for gifts or souvenirs.

Eating and drinking

The town has a range of cafés and small restaurants, many with outdoor seating. Local dishes include grilled meat, mushroom-based recipes, and seasonal vegetables, as well as traditional Catalan stews. There are also a few bakeries known for regional sweets like xuixos and panellets, depending on the time of year.

The best time to go is between April and October, when the weather is mild. Besalu holds a popular medieval fair every September, when the town fills with open-air stalls, live music, and street performers. It’s one of the busiest times to visit, but a good opportunity to see the town in a different light.

Day trips

The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park is about half an hour away and ideal for hiking or cycling. Castellfollit de la Roca, built on a narrow basalt cliff, is another striking destination nearby. The town of Olot, known for its markets and modernist architecture, is also within easy

SUMMARY

Besalu is a worthwhile stop for anyone travelling through northern Catalonia. With its historic bridge, peaceful streets, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s an easy place to slow down and take in the surroundings.

Spain’s 2025 tobacco price rise

ON Saturday, July 12, all smokers in Spain started paying more for tobacco after the government’s official gazette (BOE) published a new price list that applies to everything from premium cigars to low-cost chewing tobacco.

The price pressure may not stop there. The European Commission is reportedly considering a fast-tracked EU-wide tobacco tax increase, aimed at supporting defence spending under the bloc’s broader strategic goals.

The measure has sparked strong opposition in some member states - Sweden, in particular, voiced firm resistance, calling the proposal ‘un-

Police force mix

DIVERSE police forces in Spain create a complex but effective law enforcement system. The 1978 Constitution granted autonomy to Spain’s 17 regions, leading to a mix of National, Regional, and Local Police forces, each with distinct roles.

National Police operate in cities with over 20,000 residents, a civilian force under the Ministry of the Interior handles serious crimes like drug trafficking and violence. They manage immigration tasks (passports, fiscal identity numbers, deportations) and maintain order at protests or government buildings. They don’t handle issues like parking tickets or rural patrols.

Guardia Civil are an arm of the mili-

acceptable’ during recent discussions in Brussels.

If pushed through, the plan could see the average price of a cigarette pack in Spain rise to around €7, further tightening the squeeze on smokers already reeling from the latest national hike.

Adding insult to injury for Spain’s smokers, a bombshell new study in Nature has confirmed what fertility doctors have long suspected: traditional cigarettes are far worse for sperm than e-cigs.

Researchers found that men who smoke cigarettes have significantly lower sperm quality and motility compared to those who vape. While both habits ca-

tary who generally patrol rural areas, small towns, motorways, and borders. Their duties include combating smuggling, environmental protection, and traffic in the countryside. They don’t manage urban traffic or residency permits.

Local Police are the officers who answer to local councils, enforce town by-laws, handle noise complaints, manage local traffic, and ensure safety at

events. They avoid major crimes.

There are also some regional forces like in Catalonia (Mossos d’Esquadra), the Basque Country (Ertzaintza), and Navarra (Policía Foral), who handle everything from petty theft to counter-terrorism.

Despite occasional overlaps or disputes, coordination is generally smooth, and balance national security with regional and local needs.

rry risks, old-school tobacco hits male fertility the hardest, raising alarm bells for men hoping to start a family.

The findings are especially grim for those undergoing IVF, with experts warning that sluggish sperm from smoking could sabotage fertility treatments.

The takeaway? If the prices don’t get you, the swimmers might.

With luxury sticks at €125 and budget smokes rising to €0.75, Spain’s smokers now face higher costs, looming EU taxes, and stark health warnings - all at once. Many may conclude it is finally time to stub out, before both finances and fertility go up in smoke.

Spain’s stinging tobacco hike leaves wallets gasping.

Credit: Guillem de Balanzo, Shutterstock.

Tell the difference: Guardia Civil, National Police and Local Police.

Cop reveals secret to stop squatters Barcelona Boqueria ban

ON Monday July 7, Barcelona’s city council ordered the closure of 40 stalls inside the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria. Many were found inactive or sublet without authorisation. Officials called the move necessary to restore the market’s original function, prioritising local use over tourist gimmickry.

The Boqueria sits at the heart of Barcelona, both physically and culturally. Once a hub for fresh produce and Catalan vendors, it has become a stop on the tourist trail. The stalls reflect this shift - smoothie counters and tapas stands outnumber butchers and greengrocers. For many locals, it no longer feels like their market.

Barcelona welcomed over 12 million visitors in 2023. The Boqueria now sees more than 45,000 people daily,

the vast majority tourists. Traditional vendors struggled to compete with tourist-focused stalls that thrive on volume and visibility. Over time, prices rose, quality dropped, and community bonds frayed.

The city is investing €12 million to modernise the Boqueria. The plan includes restoring historic façades, improving food infrastructure, and creating a more liveable, local-first space. Officials say this is part of a wider effort to reclaim civic identity from mass tourism.

Modernisation may fix infrastructure, but not everything is technical. Long-time vendors warn that without real enforcement, the market risks becoming a photo op with no roots. The city’s investment is welcome, but culture is harder to restore than tiles.

A SPANISH police officer has lifted the lid on the real way to kick out okupasand the one thing every homeowner must install before it’s too late.

It’s the property panic spreading across Spain currently - but one straight-talking cop has finally told it like it is.

Fed up with the thought of squatters moving into

your home while you’re out shopping or on holiday? You’re not alone. And now, an expert from Spain’s National Police has dropped a bombshell on how to stop okupas dead in their tracks - legally, safely, and swiftly.

He gave one key piece of advice that every homeowner in Spain should follow.

“Install an alarm system with a certified security company,” he urged.

“That way, any unauthorised entry can be reported instantly and acted upon before squatters claim residence rights.”

So technically, spending €500 on an alarm today could save you a €180,000 disaster tomorrow.

Squatting is not a national epidemic in Spain - it affects 0.06 per cent of homes.

The 2025 law introduces useful tools, but its success hinges on swift reporting (within 48 hours) and judicial efficiency.

For many homeowners, prevention - security systems, regular checks, and prompt action - remain the most reliable defence.

‘They can chant all they want – but they’re out!’ Cop reveals secret weapon to stop squatters in their tracks

18 new routes from Spain

LOW-COST carrier easyJet has announced eight new routes this autumn and winter from Spain to the United Kingdom and France, bringing the total to 18.

The low-cost carrier’s new routes will link Malaga, Barcelona, Gran Canaria, and Almeria with seve ral destinations in the United Kingdom and France beginning in October.

In total, easyjet estimates adding more than 110,000 extra seats to its winter flight calendar.

easyjet is adding a new link between Barcelona and Rennes, France, starting on October 26 with two flights a week on Thursdays and Sundays.

Additionally, the low-budget airline is introducing three new destinations from Barcelona’s El Prat Airport to the United Kingdom. Those three locations are Edinburgh, Southampton, and Leeds/Bradford.

The Edinburgh and Southampton routes will commence on October 27 and will operate on Mondays and Fri -

easyJet is flying 18 new routes from Spain to the UK and France this winter.

days. The Leeds/Bradford flight starts on October 29, flying on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The airline is also introducing a new route from Malaga to Edinburgh, scheduled to commence on October 28, with flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The same day, Almeria starts flights to Liverpool, also on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Gran Canaria will gain two new French routes. One to Nantes on October 26 with flights on Wednesdays and Sundays, and the other to Lyon on October 29 on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Italy travel shock

IN a ground-breaking move, Italy has just scrapped the need for passengers to show ID at the gate when flying within the Schengen zone. That’s right - no more flashing your passport or national ID before you board. Just your boarding pass will do.

The change, already in effect, applies to all domestic flights and those to other Schengen countries. That includes most of the EU (except Ireland and Cyprus), plus Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

The move was approved by Italy’s interior ministry and announced by Pierluigi Di Palma, head of Italy’s civil aviation agency ENAC.

“Airports are secure places, and it is time to treat

INTERVIEW

Justina - Speaking European

Justina Kripaityte, a Lithuanian photographer, felt an unexplainable pull to Spain’s Costa del Sol, where she now pursues her passion.

GROWING up amid forests and fields, she recalls, “I was one of those kids who could sit in the grass for hours just watching how the light shifts through the trees.”

This connection to nature sparked her love for photography, initially a ‘side hustle’ while working in finance.

air travel the same as train travel,” Di Palma told Corriere della Sera. “There’s a lot of wasted time due to bureaucratic procedures. By removing this requirement, boarding will also be quicker.”

An impulsive move brought her to Spain. “I felt a strange pull that I didn’t know how to explain,” she says, describing her 4,000km solo drive from Lithuania. “I just felt that something bigger was waiting for me here.” In Spain, she found both purpose as a professional photographer and love, meeting her partner.

Now, Justina captures authentic moments, like lovers, weddings, families, focusing on genuine emotions. “Photography isn’t just a job for me - it is my passion,” she explains. “I capture what’s important.” Spain’s amazing light and nature inspire her, as “the light here just hits different.”

She loves Spain’s relaxed attitu -

de and spontaneity, saying, “People value connection over productivity. Life is slower here.” However, she finds inefficiencies frustrating: “The slower life can feel romantic until you’re chasing a missing order for the third week.” Despite bureaucratic challenges, Justina embraces Spain’s unique beauty, saying, “You learn to trust the process even when it’s wildly imperfect.” Justina’s dazzling photography can be seen at justinakrisphotography on Instagram.

Opportunity of a Louvre-time

ARCHITECTS are preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime. Following a rough beginning of the summer with overcrowding, overheating, and what resulted in a total walkout and shutdown of the world’s most famous museum, the Louvre in Paris is making a big change … and asking for help. Weeks after the worker strike, the Louvre has announced that it will host an architectural design contest for its new desperately-needed expansion.

The expansion will see a new entrance created adjacent to the Seine River on the eastern-facing façade of the structure, in accordance with the ‘Louvre New Re-

naissance’ plan announced by French president Emmanuel Macron in January of this year. The competition will challenge architectural designers to incorporate the new entrance into the already-existing structure. This is to relieve congestion at the museum’s main entrance, which at its current 30,000 visitors a day, becomes unmanageable.

Arguably the most important change made will be dedicating an entire room to the world’s most famous painting, housed inside the Louvre - Leonardo Da Vin-

ci’s Mona Lisa. The painting receives an overwhelming 20,000 visitors a day, and dedicating a sole room to it with timed, controlled entries would alleviate a lot of overcrowding concerns for the museum. The current plan is to dedicate a 33,000 square foot gallery that connects to the main museum just for the painting to be built underground beneath the Cour Carée, a courtyard of the Louvre. The change will reportedly be funded by a strategic increase in ticket prices and revenue.

The Louvre has launched a competition for the redesign of its structure.

Photo Credit: Alexander Kagan via Unsplash

Boarding a flight in Italy just got easier.

Credit: motioncenter, Shutterstock.

Justina Kripaityte and her art.

Credit: JK

A Roaring Community Spirit Shines as

BBF Fundraiser

THE recent British Benevolent Fund (BBF) charity gala, held at the residence of Sir Alexander Ellis, British Ambassador to Spain, was an extraordinary success, not just because of the funds raised but also because of the spirit of generosity that defined every moment of the evening.

Set against the elegant backdrop of the ambassador’s Madrid residence, the event brought together British residents, community leaders, and supporters from across Spain, all united in one cause: helping UK nationals in times of crisis. Thanks to ticket sales, sponsorships, and a generous raffle, the fundraiser exceeded its €10,000 target, raising €10,970 - every cent of which goes directly to beneficiaries, as BBF operates without salaries or overheads.

Sir Alexander Ellis was widely praised as the perfect host - a true gentleman and scholar who made every guest feel welcome. His continued support, and that of the British Consulate, has been invaluable to the BBF’s work, which spans more than a century.

The BBF also extended heartfelt thanks to its sponsors, whose contributions covered all event

costs, allowing the amount raised to go to those in need. Among the standout sponsors were Euro Weekly News, HM Hospitals, Golden Leaves, My Lawyer in Spain, Serenity Funeral Services, Spanish Property Choice, Currencies Direct, BlueCee Real Estate, Silverwood Bloom, Línea Directa, and many others.

One of the most notable contributors on the Costa del Sol was Tibbi Aquilar, Director of La Scala Group, who donated prizes and has long supported community initiatives. Equally recognised were Jenny and Tony Trask, cherished residents who have spent over 30 years supporting charities such as the BBF, quietly making a difference with unwavering dedication.

The evening celebrated charitable giving, community, kindness, and shared responsibility. Whether a business sponsor, a volunteer, a donor, or a local Scout selling raffle tickets, everyone made this event a shining example of what the British community in Spain can achieve when they come together.

No cost. High impact. All heart. That’s the BBF way.

Sponsors Who Made It Happen

The BBF extended heartfelt thanks to all of the generous event sponsors, whose support covered every logistical cost:

Euro Weekly News

HM Hospitals

Golden Leaves

My Lawyer in Spain

Serenity Funeral Services • Spanish Property Choice • Currencies Direct • Blue Sea Real Estate • Silverwood Bloom • Línea Directa

Because of them, the BBF’s immediate aid mission was fulfilled again - efficiently, ethically, and with love.

How You Can Help

Whether you’re a business, a retiree, a teenager, or someone who wants to make a difference, the BBF welcomes your support. www.britishbenevolentfund.org • info@britishbenevolentfund.org No salaries. No fluff. Just action. And everyone - absolutely everyone - can be a hero.

Success:

Surpasses €12,000 Goal in Madrid.

Interview

‘We’re

Here to Support Those Who Need It Most’ Sir Alexander Ellis: A Diplomat of Empathy and Action

By Euro Weekly News Staff

“We must go beyond fear.” These five words, once penned by Sir Alexander Ellis during his tenure in India, are more than a personal philosophy - they are the quiet force behind a life dedicated to diplomacy, education, and human dignity.

Sir Alexander was born in London in 1967 and spent decades building bridges across continents. From Europe to Latin America, and most recently Asia, Ellis has held some of the most pivotal roles in the British Foreign Office, including ambassadorships in Portugal and Brazil and High Commissioner to India. Now, with his return to Spain, he brings a deeply personal energy to a country where his story - and heart - have long found a home.

Speaking exclusively to Euro Weekly News at a recent British Benevolent Fund (BBF) fundraising event in Madrid, Ellis offered a window into the mission that currently fuels him: helping British citizens in Spain who face extreme hardship.

“The British Benevolent Fund is raised entirely through charitable giving, and it helps British peo ple in desperate need,” he said, relaxed yet re solute, in the sun-dappled garden of his official residence. “This event is about celebrating that work and ensuring it can continue.”

The setting was as charming as the man him self - a warm afternoon filled with commu nity spirit and compassion. Yet beneath the lightness of the moment lies a se rious purpose: to ensure that no British national in Spain is left behind. “It’s a big community,” Ellis continued, “and the Fund’s support is national - from Malaga to Madrid and beyond.”

His ability to connect the personal with the institutional is no accident. Ellis’s approach to diplomacy is rooted in empathy. As the son of a school headmaster and a former history teacher, he carries an edu-

cator’s sense of humility and service. His diplomatic career began with a front-row seat to history, helping manage South Africa’s transition to democracy after Nelson Man dela’s release. Since then, he’s continued to pair sharp strategy with heartfelt humanity.

His advocacy doesn’t stop at policy. Ellis speaks open ly about his son Tomás, who is on the autism spectrum, addressing the realities of parenting with honesty and gra ce. Married to Portuguese national Teresa Adegas, and fluent in both Spanish and Portuguese, he bridges cultural divides in his work and life.

“We must go beyond fear,” he once wrote in The Week India, “and help people see that everything is OK - there is nothing to be afraid of.”

In every sense, Ellis walks that talk. He doesn’t just re assure; he acts. His tenure in Spain is more than a diplo matic posting - it is a return, a renewal, and a reinvestment in people. Whether championing British citizens in crisis or lifting conversations around mental health, disability, and belonging, his message is consistent: everyone matters. Ellis finds joy in choral music and sport outside of diplomacy - passions that offer harmony and connection, just like his professional calling. In his public and private life, he shows that strength doesn’t come from rank, but from how you treat those most

As the BBF looks to expand its support for vulnerable Britons, it does so with a leader who embodies action with heart. Ellis is not just an ambassador of the Crown - he is a quiet warrior for dignity, decency, and those who cannot fight alone.

In a world often dominated by uncertainty, Sir Alexander Ellis reminds us that diplomacy, at its best, is not about power - it’s about people. And for those who feel lost, left behind, or alone, his message is unwavering: we’re here to support those who need it most.

Because for Sir Alexander Ellis, there is no fear - only purpose.

Photos Credit: @calvinfix

From ally to outcast

DELIGHTED to not be mentioned in the recent Diana Dors TV documentary, (not by name anyway). I knew her extremely well for many years, probably better than most.

We were very close during her difficult times when she was struggling to keep her financial head above water; including the finances of their two young sons she had arranged for her ex-husband Richard Dawson; also an out of regular work actor, to look after in America.

This was of course later rectified when in 1965 he obtained a starring role in the highly successful American series Hogan’s Heroes, but his was also a terrible struggle before he clinched the role.

Now back in the UK she had engaged a new, fairly low-key agent, who began to book her in cabaret dates, mainly in the north of England. This was some years before this ol’

boy cracked it with Little Arrows, so I was free to accompany her to many of these venues, which were springing up all over the country.

After she had completed the appearance, we would leave for the hotel - which she always booked for one! I would subsequently then sneak in and share the room for the night. She was earning £100 to £150 an appearance, out of which my share would be around 15 quid. Although that doesn’t sound particularly copious, in those far off days it meant I could at least provide my own family with some security. As a struggling actor myself, I was also discovering showbiz optimisms fraught with difficulty. She would then post most of what she could afford to her husband in America. This went on for a number of years, during which she occasionally managed to pick up a cameo role in a movie or TV appearance.

We shared some great times, until one day she told me she had been offered a starring role in a new West End play entitled ‘Three months Gone’. Apparently, she wasn’t sure

whether to accept it as she hadn’t been offered a wage, but only a percentage of the door. It was only after I had almost twisted her arm up her back with the insistence that she simply had to take on the role due to the amount of publicity that could ensue, that she finally accepted. The show was a resounding success and suddenly she was back, earning really well. Life was good again and our friendship and social life grew even stronger.

One day she told me she had met a ‘wonderful man’ named Alan Lake, who was also appearing in the production and thought she could be falling in love. She introduced me and frankly, I didn’t like him at all.

A few years later she conspired with him and a star struck lawyer in an injustice which ultimately cost me my freedom and almost my career. It’s all in the books. Available on Amazon. Thanks for all your birthday wishes; they really made my day.

Keep the Faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Pet care course

THE Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and Agenda 2030 has introduced a course for pet owners, culminating in a lifelong certificate after a final test to ensure informed pet care.

The draft incorporates input from animal protection groups, veterinarians, and breeders. It standardises regulations for breeding, selling, and owning dogs, cats, and ferrets, establishes the Central Animal Protection Registry System (SICERPA) at €431,200, and addresses stray animal collection and feral cat management to reduce abandonment and enhance welfare.

Dog owners, excluding veterinarians and registered professionals, must complete the course within six months of the online platform’s launch, covering pet selection, health, socialisation, and responsibilities. Owners must also obtain liability insurance of at least €100,000 (€120,000 for ‘potentially dangerous’ breeds) within six months of the decree’s enactment. The regulations may increase demand for rescue dogs but could strain shelters due to stricter adoption processes and mandatory training and insurance, potentially discouraging adopters and raising abandonment rates, especially for puppies.

The bill mandates annual veterinary checkups for dogs, cats (except feral), and ferrets and enforces stricter oversight of breeders and animal behaviour professionals through SICERPA to curb unqualified practices.

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

Virgen del Carmen festivities

THE much-loved festivities in honour of the Virgen del Carmen, patron saint of seafarers, return to Calpe until Sunday July 20.

Programme:

Thursday July 17:

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Pedreguer’s Bonaventurafest

Saturday July 19: At 2.00pm, the fishing families of Calpe are invited to a community lunch at Restaurante Baydal.

THE town of Pedreguer celebrates its much-loved Festes de Juliol with two major music events on Saturday July 19 and Sunday July 20.

From midday, there will be a white prawn tasting, along with popular snacks and drinks, and aquatic games for children.

The evening kicks off with a Nit de Música DJ set at 8.30pm, followed by a live concert by La Trampa orchestra at 10.30pm, again under the marquee and with bar service by Prefesters 2026.

Friday July 18: At 10.00pm, music lovers can enjoy another ‘Nit de Música’ featuring live performances by Cream Pop, Venturi, Alison Darwin and L’Home Brut, bringing indie sounds to the heart of the harbour.

The evening continues with a performance by local singer JC15 at 10.00pm, followed by the dynamic sounds of La Swag orchestra at 11.30pm. Drinks will again be served by Prefesters 2026.

sinsounds of La Swag or-

Sunday July 20: The final day begins at 11.30am with water inflatables and traditional games in the port area, accompanied by live music from the Colla Xirimiters del Carellot.

At midday, the traditional caldero (fish stew) competition will take place, with prizes awarded for the best rice dishes. Musical entertainment will continue throughout.

Summer tardeo

A perfect way to soak up the local spirit on a summer evening among friends.

THE Ermita de Sanz, one of Benidorm’s most charming hidden corners, is set to come alive with music, food and good vibes on Saturday July 19, as part of a festive summer tardeo open to all. From 7.00pm, locals and visitors alike are invited to enjoy an openair evening with a lively DJ set, affordable drinks and montaditos, and a welcoming atmosphere as the sun sets over the Mediterranean. Entry is completely free, but at-

tendees are advised to arrive early to secure parking in the adjacent car park.

Organised by the fadrins del Roser - a group of young locals behind the annual celebrations at the Ermita - the tardeo is just one of several events designed to raise funds for the upcoming Festes del Roser in October. These traditional festivities are distinct from Benidorm’s better-known town fiestas and revolve entirely

around the Ermita de Sanz, drawing on the area’s rural roots and community spirit.

Another date to mark is Friday August 9, when the popular Sopar d’Estiu (Summer Dinner) returns to the Ermita, this time with a twist. Unlike in previous years, when guests were responsible for interpreting the event’s theme through their outfits, this summer’s theme has been chosen by the fadrins themselves.

The main night of the festival, Saturday July 19, will offer a journey through several branches of rock. The Castellón-based duo Exfan bring their Ramones-inspired punk rock just weeks after the release of their fourth album, Rave 53.

Sharing the bill are Tampó d’Espart, known for their feminist punk-hardcore sound and irreverent humour. Their shows are celebrated for their spontaneous intensity and playful political bite.

Local band Diàspora, one of the few metalcore groups in the region, will also take part in what marks their farewell tour - bringing emotional weight and raw power to the stage.

Adding a retro twist, Connie & The Rockets travel from Barcelona with their dynamic take on 1950s rockabilly. Fronted by

vocalist Connie Zahino and backed by guitarist Twang González, double bassist Juanma Rodríguez and drummer Carlos Callahan, the quartet draws on British and Latin rockabilly traditions.

To wrap up the festivities, the band Jean Jazz will take the stage at 1pm on Sunday July 20 for a Concert-Vermouth that promises to end the festival on a high note. Hailing from the Marina Alta, Jean Jazz are known for their infectious fusion of funk, ska and cumbia.

Jean Jazz playing in one of their video clips.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Benidorm

Credit: Jean Jazz

Credit: Joanbanjo / Creative Commons Music lovers can enjoy another ‘Nit de Música’.

History revisited

DENIA is offering a journey through time with two evocative exhibitions housed at Cavallers 3, the building that also hosts the town’s Archaeological Museum (MAD). Open daily until September 15, these exhibitions aim to connect both visitors and locals with two powerful chapters of history: one rooted in the baroque grandeur of 17th-century Denia, the other in the emotional legacy of 20th-century anti-fascist resistance.

The first of the two exhibitions is a newly curated version of La ciudad de Denia y el duelo por el V marqués (The City of Denia and the Mourning of the Fifth Marquis), it focuses on Francisco de Sandoval y Rojas, the

influential Duke of Lerma and fifth Marquis of Denia, to mark the 400th anniversary of his death.

Just a few steps away from the noble legacy of the 1600s, visitors can also explore a more recent and no less stirring episode of European history in La Nueve.

Un antifascismo emocional (La Nueve: Emotional Antifascism). This exhibition tells the story of ‘La Nueve’ - the Ninth Company of the French armoured division made up almost entirely of Spanish Republican exiles who fled Franco’s regime after the Spanish Civil War and continued their fight against fascism in France. Admission is free.

TACO DEL PACO, tucked away in Calpe’s old town, is far from your average taco joint. Blending bold Mexican flavours with Spanish flair, this small but mighty restaurant offers a menu built for sharing, surprising and savouring.

Start with house-made guacamole, served with crunchy pork belly or fried corn tostadas topped with Cantabrian anchovies and spicy honey. The tacos are the real stars - served in pairs on yellow or purple tortillas and packed with inventive combinations like king prawns with black garlic purée, duck magret with crunchy broad beans, or pork cheeks on artichoke cream.

A taste of Mexico

mesco-dressed hanger steak, and the wildly popular turrón cheesecake. Vegetarians can dig into wok-fried cactus, roasted avocado, or mushroom tacos.

Tequila gets serious attention, too. Try the tasting board for a tour through mezcal, reposado and añejo, or pair your meal with a glass of local wine from Bodegas Leopoldo.

Meat lovers can go big with ‘Paco’s Board’, 500g of slow-roasted pork neck wrapped in banana leaf, served with a spread of salsas, beans

and tortillas. Or try the huitlacoche chicken, a rich, cheesy dish featuring Mexican truffle.

Don’t miss the nods to Spain: salmorejo made with local ‘Rosa de Altea’ tomatoes, ro-

With warm service, late opening hours (daily until 23.30), and a commitment to sourcing from small local producers like La Reina de las Tortillas and Mango & More, Taco del Paco is a rare gemboth fiery and thoughtful.

Carrer Pintor Sorolla 5, Calpe tacodelpacocalpe@ gmail.com +34 615 278 935 Mon-Sun: 13.0016.00 / 19.00-23.30

Set in one of the ground floor rooms of Cavallers 3.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Denia

Credit: Taco del Paco Facebook

Taco del Paco is a welcome and refreshing addition.

FOOD CRITICS

by The Silver Spoon Sisters

The Silver Spoon Sisters

INTRODUCTION

HEY! So, me (Sophia) and my little sister Anabella (she’s 10 and I just turned 13 in June) decided we want to be food critics for Calpe and other areas in the Costa Blanca North! We’d love to try some yummy kids’ meals at different restaurants, and in return, we’ll write reviews about how awesome the food is and tell people all about the places - from a kid’s point of view. Adults always say kids’ reviews are more honest and fun to read, so we think it’s time to give it a go!

We’ll be sharing what we think, not just about the food, but also how the staff treat children and what kind of experience kids can expect.

We’ll even give printed copies of our reviews to restaurants to put by the door for tourists to read!

What made us want to start this whole idea is something that happened on our Daddy’s 40th birthday, on June 13. Our family - Mama, Daddy, Nana, us two girls, and our little brother - went out to eat in a restaurant in Calpe. There were six of us sitting in an area meant for six, enjoying the cool breeze (well, actually a strong wind - Mama leaned over the edge and looked like Bridget Jones after

her car ride!), chatting, laughing, and taking in the amazing view.

Then something not-so-nice happened. A waitress came over and told only us kids to move because they wanted to use the sofa for more customers. I told her we were one family and wanted to stay together for our Daddy’s birthday, but she didn’t seem to care. Then the manager came over, looking very angry, and also said we had to move. Mama explained again, politely, that we were all comfortable and wanted to celebrate together, but they didn’t listen.

We felt like they only wanted to move us because we were kids - maybe because we were only drinking juice and that’s cheaper?

It made us think: why are kids sometimes treated differently in restaurants? Why are we often given the worst table or made to wait longer than others, even when we were there first?

That day could’ve ruined our Daddy’s birthday, but instead it gave us this amazing idea - to speak up, write honest reviews, and show that kids’ experiences matter too. We’re both SO, SO happy to be starting this adventure!

Free summer fitness

THE popular summer fitness programme Esport a la platja is back for another year, offering free guided physical activities on Denia’s beaches. Organised by the local council’s department for Sport, the initiative invites residents and visitors alike to take part in open-air exercise sessions set in the town’s stunning coastal landscape.

From now until Friday, August 29, sessions will be held at two locations: Marineta Cassiana and Punta del Raset beaches. The programme aims to promote healthy habits over the summer months by making sport easily ac-

cessible in a natural environment. A special festive sessions is planned for Friday, August 15.

A wide variety of activi-

ties is on offer, catering to all ages and levels of fitness. This year’s schedule includes tai chi, aerocombat, gentle gymnastics,

music-based exercise, and pilates, as well as a new addition for 2025: dynamic kung fu.

Sessions run from Monday to Friday at times designed to avoid the peak hours of sun exposure - starting at 8.00am, 8.30am, 9.15am, and in the evening at 8.00pm - ensuring participants can exercise in safe and comfortable conditions.

No registration is required. Anyone interested can simply show up at the scheduled time and location.

Full timetables and further information are available on the municipal website: esports.denia.es

Nights in Moraira

WHEN night falls over Moraira, the quiet seaside town transforms into a hub of festive electricity. By day, the streets host age-old traditions and sun-soaked rituals - but it’s after dark that the true spirit of the fiestas reveals itself.

On Thursday July 17, the most anticipated evening event begins at 11.30pm with the now-iconic ‘Bous a la mar’ - bulls to the sea. This late-night session, run by ganadería La Hermandad, takes place on a specially constructed platform by the harbour.

The festive fever continues on Friday July 18, where Bous a la mar returns once again at 11.30pm.

But for those less drawn to horns and hooves, another celebration

unfolds higher up - at the castle esplanade. As the sea breeze drifts inland, crowds begin to gather for the eagerly awaited ‘Noche Remember’, a night of throwback dance music featuring DJs José Coll, Coqui Selection and

Javi Boss. Saturday July 19 marks the high point of Moraira’s nighttime revelry. After a full day of paraAdes and bull events, the evening brings the beloved ‘Noche de Peñas’ at 9.30pm - a grand communal dinner in Calle

Doctor Calatayud. Though Sunday July 20’s highlights - cassalla shots, a giant paella and the colourful costume parade - take place under the midday sun, it’s the nights that linger longest in memory.

Free film workshops

THE 37th Alfaz del Pi Film Festival launches a new educational programme aimed at young filmmakers, according to a press release from the local council. Until July 25, Casa de Cultura will host free talks, masterclasses and practical workshops led by industry professionals, in collaboration with top institutions ESCAC (Barcelona), TAI (Madrid), and La Integra Teatro.

acting, and the practical challenges of producing and distributing films. The range of workshops aims to provide accessible, hands-on experience for emerging creatives, encouraging networking and collaboration within Spain’s dynamic audiovisual sector.

This ambitious initiative reflects the festival’s commitment to fostering new talent and bridging the gap between academic training and professional filmmaking. Participants will gain invaluable insights into directing,

Until Friday July 25, director Juan Blanco will lead a weekday course on fiction directing (10.00-15.00). Free with a refundable €150 deposit. Registration: https://off. escac.com/introduccion-a-la-direc cion-alicante-2.

Gentle gymnastics, music-based exercise, and pilates.

This ambitious initiative reflects the festival’s commitment to fostering new talent.

A different lens

UNTIL October, Benidorm’s Espais d’Art Urbà are hosting the collective outdoor exhibition Benidorm a pie de calle (‘Benidorm at street level’), featuring 53 photographs taken by students from the Mistos School of Photography.

Sixteen photographers from across Spain, all participants in the Mistos course on authorial photography and personal perspective, have come together to create the show. Many of them had never set foot in Benidorm before. “They had only heard about it or seen images, so they started with a preliminary visit to get to know the city,” explained José Luis Carrillo, director of the school.

Moving beyond stereotypes and clichés, the photographers sought to portray the city in its complexity - not as a tourist novelty, but as a living, breathing place inhabited by diverse people. The result is a body of work that challenges the

exoticised image often associated with the area, offering instead a collective vision grounded in everyday realities.

Spread across six neighbourhoods - El Carrasco, El Pont, Hispanitat, El Campo, Ponent and Els Tolls - the photographs transform

Benidorm into an open-air museum.

The exhibition forms part of the final showcase for students who took part in a year-long course with Mistos. Sixteen of the 25 students involved were selected to participate in this edition.

Free tickets for cultural events

DENIA has launched a new initiative aimed at encouraging residents and visitors alike to shop locally while enjoying the town’s vibrant cultural life. Under the slogan ‘The more you shop, the more culture you get’, the campaign offers participants the chance to win free tickets to a variety of cultural and festive events scheduled throughout July and August 2025.

Spearheaded by the Department of Commerce in collaboration with CREAMA, the campaign seeks to stimulate spending in Denia’s small and medium-sized businesses and promote the use

of the municipal mobile app D-Denia, through which all participation will be managed.

The mechanics are simple: anyone over the age of 18 who shops at any eligible local retail or service establishment in Denia until Tuesday August 19 can enter the prize draws. To take part, they just need to upload

a photo of their purchase receipt via the ‘Promotions / Prize Draws’ section of the D-Denia app. Each €10 spent will count as one entry into that week’s draw, and all receipts - regardless of total amount - can be accumulated to increase chances of winning.

Every week, shoppers will have the chance to win free tickets to cultural events.

Credit:

Joanbanjo / Creative Commons

City’s mayor, Toni Pérez; the councillor for Cultural heritage, Ana Pellicer; and José Luis Carrillo, director of the Mistos School of Photography.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Benidorm

Artworks from 20 countries

GATA DE GORGOS has transformed its historic centre into an open-air gallery with the launch of the 22nd edition of Art al Vent, Spain’s most prominent exhibition of contemporary textile art. Until Saturday July 20, the narrow streets of the old quarter are festooned with 87 striking textile artworks from 20 countries, fluttering from balconies and façades in a vibrant display of global creativity.

The official opening ceremony took place on Friday June 27 at 8pm in Plaça de l’Església, with traditional Valencian music performed by local ensemble Colla El Montgó, setting the festive tone. Residents, visitors and local authorities

gathered to admire this year’s selection of works for the first time, turning the quiet town into a dynamic meeting point between folk tradition and international contemporary art.

Art al Vent is a project deeply rooted in the town’s identity.

The event was originally inspired by the local tradition of hanging embroidered linen bedspreads on balconies during the August festivities in honour of the Virgen del Carmen and Santíssim Crist del Calvari. What began in 2003 as a modest initiative to revive and reinterpret that custom through contemporary textile art has grown into a respected international platform.

Spanish Wine in the global spotlight:

RECENT developments in the global wine industry are reshaping market dynamics, and Spanish wine is uniquely positioned to respond. With climate change accelerating harvest schedules in France and parts of Italy, international buyers are turning their eyes toward Spain’s diverse wine regions - many of which have adapted well to extreme conditions thanks to altitude, native varietals, and sustainable practices. The growing focus on indigenous grapes and minimal intervention winemaking also favours Spain. Varietals like Godello, Bobal, and Mencía are gaining international attention, offering freshness, character, and authenticity that resonate with modern consumers.

At the same time, the downturn in demand for premium wines in traditional markets like the US and China has created challenges. Yet, Spain’s exceptional quality-to-price ratio is helping it remain competitive, particularly in emerging markets and among younger wine drinkers. Furthermore, recent EU agricultural funding and sustainability initiatives are giving Spanish producers resources to modernise while preserving heritage. As global wine media continues to spotlight innovation and resilience, Spain’s blend of tradition, diversity, and forward-thinking is becoming a compelling narrative - one that’s redefining its role on the world wine stage.

martha@marthasvineyard.es What’s App: +34 711 023 344

Martha Ardila, Sommelier at Martha’s Vineyard Moraira

Free open-air opera

A FREE open-air performance of the classic Cendrillon, adapted into Valencian, will take place in Benidorm on Thursday July 17.

On July 17 at 10.00 pm, the auditorium in Foietes Park, Benidorm, will host a very special event: the opera La ventafocs, a Valencian-language adaptation of Pauline Viardot’s Cendrillon. Admission is free until full capacity is reached, making this a wonderful opportunity to enjoy opera under the

stars in a relaxed summer setting. There’s no need to understand the language - the music and stage action will guide you effortlessly through the story.

This performance is part of Les Arts Volants, an initiative by the Palau de les Arts in Valencia that brings opera to town squares and public spaces across the Valencian region. The company travels in a large lorry that transforms into a stage on arrival, offering audiences

a complete operatic experience featuring performers from the Centre de Perfeccionament.

La ventafocs is a chamber opera that Viardot - a composer of Spanish heritage - originally created to entertain her close circle of friends. Now it arrives in Benidorm in an adapted version designed for all audiences. A magical and accessible cultural experience you won’t want to miss this summer.

Venue: Foietes Park Auditorium - Benidorm

Party for children & dinosaurs

THIS summer, DinoPark Algar isn’t just about roaring dinosaurs - it’s also the coolest place to beat the heat with daily foam parties that turn the prehistoric park into a bubbly playground. Every day of July at 4.00pm, visitors can dive into a sea of foam, laughter and summer joy, surrounded by life-sized dinosaurs and Mediterranean nature.

Set in the unique surroundings of a former botanical garden in Callosa d’en Sarrià, DinoPark Algar blends thrilling dinosaur encounters with family-friendly fun.

Alongside iconic species like the Stegosaurus, Triceratops and the mi ghty T-Rex, the park now offers a re freshing foam-filled experience that’s proving to be a hit with children and adults alike.

But there’s much more to explore beyond the foam. The park is home to over 100 dinosaur models - some static, some animated and many with sound effects. Kids can dig for fossi ls in the palaeontology zone, splash around in the children’s pool, or meet live turtles, while parents relax at the DinoCafe or enjoy shady picnic spots surrounded by hundreds of cacti.

Credit: DinoPark Algar Facebook

Whether it’s the local Morelladon, the towering Argentinosaurus or the cheeky ‘peeing Triceratops’, each cor-

ner of the park brings new prehistoric adventures. With the daily foam parties adding a dose of wild, watery fun, DinoPark Algar promises a summer experience like no other.

Photo Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benidorm

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Global flavours, local heart: Pueblo Alcasar delivers

IF you call the restaurant Pueblo Alcasar, Marci will answer the phone speaking in English. Tucked away in a peaceful residential development near Benitachell, Restaurante Pueblo Alcasar is a culinary project fuelled by warmth, dedication and a rich personal story.

Run by Marcy - short for Marcela Martin - this welcoming restaurant blends international flavours with home-cooked love. Originally from Colombia, Marcy arrived in Spain in 2001 and began her hospitality journey washing dishes in Moraira.

Within a few years, she had bought her first restaurant, learned English and trained herself in cooking and restaurant management. After

a break to raise her son and stints in the US and Barcelona (where she managed a Foster’s Hollywood and set a national sales record), Marcy has returned to the Costa Blanca with a refreshed vision - and it shows.

The venue itself is casual but charming, perfect for relaxed family meals. There’s even a football pitch, a basketball court and a play area for young children nearby, making it ideal for locals and visitors alike.

Marcy is often on-site, greeting guests with her signature smile and hands-on approach. When you call, it’s her voice that answers in English - just another small touch that makes the experience feel personal.

The Set Menu - available

Monday to Saturday - is a true highlight, offering excellent value with two or three generous courses and a glass of wine or beer included. Dishes rotate every two weeks, ensuring there’s always something new to try.

Expect a global variety: Colombian-style barrel-roasted meats (slow-cooked for hours over charcoal), Catalan lamb stewed in red wine and rosemary, French-inspired goat’s cheese salads, gluten-free and vegan options, hearty curries and home-made desserts.

Everything is made in-house, from the sauces to the sweets.

Sundays are especially lively, with BBQ specials cooked the Colombian way and live music to set the mood - from rumba to dance.

Word of mouth has carried Marcy’s reputation from Moraira to Calpe and Teulada, and her loyal clientele, some now into their second genera-

Restaurante Pueblo Alcasar: +34 677 304 031 Polígono Pp.Pueblo Alcasar, 100K, 03726 Benitachell, Alicante

THE Costa Blanca will once again come alive with rhythm as the much-loved Javea Jazz Festival returns from Friday August 2 to Sunday August 4. Each evening at 10.30pm, the Plaça de la Constitució will host free openair concerts featuring world-class jazz performances.

The festival begins with a special tribute to Charlie Chaplin’s music, led by guitar virtuosos Stochelo and Mozes Rosenberg, joined by Romanian vio-

tion, continue to support her endeavours. She plans to stay open all year round, including throughout the winter months and is already receiving bookings for Christmas and New Year.

Delivery is now available in Teulada, Moraira, Benitachell and Cumbre del Sol, and weekly meal prep is also on offer - a thoughtful service for the area’s growing elderly population.

Follow Pueblo Alcasar on Facebook to stay updated on events, menus and live music.

Musical tribute to Chaplin

linist Costel Nitescu. Earlier that day, the Cine Jayan will screen the documentary Chaplin, Espíritu Gitano at 6pm, with a soundtrack composed by the Rosenberg brothers.

Saturday August 3 sees acclaimed pianist Alex Conde perform alongside his group Los Indultados and singer

Sandra Carrasco, blending flamenco and jazz in a bold reinterpretation of Spanish classics.

The festival closes on Sunday with British swing legend Ray Gelato and his band The Giants, promising an upbeat finale full of jazz, blues and showmanship.

The event has featured names such as Wynton Marsalis and Chano Domínguez, and plays a key role in the vibrant jazz scene of the Comunidad Valenciana. With its international line-up and intimate Mediterranean setting, this festival remains a cultural gem for music lovers across Spain.

Your

The course will grant a lifelong certificate to those who pass.

Should taking a pet care course be mandatory VOICE

SPAIN is set to implement a major change in pet ownership regulations: a mandatory four-hour online course for anyone looking to adopt or buy a dog. This new requirement, part of a draft royal decree under the broader 2023 Animal Rights and Welfare Law, aims to ensure that future pet owners are fully informed and prepared before bringing an animal into their home.

The course, which is free and ends with a short test, will grant a lifelong certificate to those who pass, and aims to reduce abandonment rates and improve animal welfare across the country. We asked our readers whether they agree that such a course should be mandatory before welcoming a dog into your home.

Many were in favour of the idea, particularly for first-time dog owners. As Lesley Marlor said, “Yes, in some cases. Especially if you have never had a pet.” Karen Swanwick echoed this: “Definitely for a first-time dog.” Harri Son responded simply, “Yes!” while Lyn Rowe stated, “Definitely. I agree that they should.”

Some respondents pointed to concerns about irresponsible ownership. David Cooke commented, “Nowadays, definitely! Train the fools to train their dogs.” Judith Dominique Wolfenegg also stressed the importance of better awareness: “Yes. Obviously, many are too lazy, careless or stupid to look

properly after a dog... For some people dogs or pets in general are like toys or accessories, not living beings with a soul and different personalities and needs.”

However, not all commenters supported the idea. Catherine Keen raised concerns: “It’s hard enough to get pets adopted. At the shelter we volunteer at, we do a home visit first, then pre-adoption. If all is well, you can adopt. Please don’t make it more difficult...”

Steve Kenton suggested experience is the better teacher: “No, however, all dog owners should be licensed and registered... Learn from other dog owners because a one-size fits all approach doesn’t work but always be mindful that some advice could be outdated or wrong.”

Finally, John Nelson offered a more emotional reflection on what owning a dog really means: “Love, trust, loyalty, and looking at them as family not something owned.”

Overall, responses were split, but slightly more readers leaned in favour of requiring a pet care course, especially for those without prior experience. While opinions varied, the conversation shows a shared understanding that dogs deserve thoughtful, informed care - whether that comes through instruction or hands-on experience.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Film investment

FOREIGN film investment in Spain dropped 33.6 per cent in 2024, falling to €129.9 million, per PROFILM (Cineuropa). The group blames outdated tax incentives, while countries like Italy and France offer up to 40 per cent. Madrid saw no shoots but led in post-production.

UK transport

THE UK’s £92 billion (€106.6 billion) investment in over 50 road and rail projects is expected to support 42,000 jobs, unlock 1.5 million homes, and fast-track economic growth, according to a gov.uk press release. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the upgrades will “grow the economy and put more money in working people’s pockets.”

Alstom’s sales

ALSTOM Spain posted €809 million in sales for 2024/25, with over half from international projects, as reported by Railway-News. Its operations supported 7,316 jobs and contributed €400 million to Spain’s GDP, while spending €530 million with nearly 1,000 local suppliers.

3°C warming

A 3°C global temperature rise could wipe out 8 per cent of UK GDP and add 74 per cent of GDP to national debt by the 2070s, warns the Office for Budget Responsibility, cited by Reuters. The long-term economic cost of inaction is now seen as far greater than previously forecast.

30th Anniversary

GENEVA Business School marked its 30th anniversary at its Barcelona graduation ceremony, celebrating 168 graduates from 40+ nationalities. Speakers urged students to lead with purpose in today’s volatile world. With Swiss standards and real-world business training, the school positions itself as a top global talent hub within Spain’s competitive education industry.

CaixaBank expects Spain’s GDP to grow by 2.4 per cent in 2025.

EU car jobs risk

EUROPE’S car industry could lose one million jobs and €90 billion in value if the EU drops its 2035 ban on sales of new fossil fuel cars and vans, according to a new study by campaign group Transport & Environment (T&E).

Published in July 2025, the report warns the EU is at a turning point. Maintaining the 2035 goal and supporting electric vehicle production could see the bloc return to pre-2008 levels of 16.8 million cars produced annually.

“It’s a make or break moment for Europe’s automotive industry as the global competition to lead the production of electric cars, batteries and chargers is immense,” said Julia Poliscanova, Senior Director at T&E, as quoted by Reuters.

If the target is upheld, the sector could grow 11 per cent by

2035. Over 100,000 battery jobs may be created by 2030, plus 120,000 charging roles by 2035.

But if the EU backtracks, the industry could lose one million jobs. Two-thirds of battery investments could disappear.

The pressure is mounting. EU manufacturers already face high

BBVA launches crypto

BBVA has launched a cryptocurrency trading and custody service for retail customers in Spain, allowing users to buy, sell, and store Bitcoin and Ether via the bank’s mobile app.

The service, approved by Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV), is fully integrated into BBVA’s digital banking platform and complies with the EU’s MiCA regulation. BBVA stressed the platform is fully customer-initiated and offers no investment advice.

“We want to make it easier for our retail customers in Spain to invest in crypto-assets,” said Gonzalo Rodríguez, Head of Retail Banking for Spain (BBVA, July 4, 2025).

QualiBooth expands

SPANISH startup QualiBooth has raised €2 million to expand its AI-powered digital accessibility platform across Europe (as reported by Tech in Asia).

The funding follows the European Accessibility Act that took effect on June 28, mandating inclusive design for sites like ecommerce and banking apps. QualiBooth will open a new Barcelona office and accelerate development to help companies meet strict EU compliance rules.

costs and fierce competition from China and the U.S. – and Donald Trump’s 25 per cent tariffs on EU car imports have forced many to pull their 2025 forecasts.

Although emissions targets were softened in May, the 2035 ban remains - for now.

Spain is the third country in BBVA’s crypto rollout, following Switzerland and Turkey.

“BBVA is continuing to grow its digital assets business,” added Francisco Maroto, Head of Digital Assets.

Spain-Africa Summit 2025

MADRID, July 6-8 - Top voices from Spain and across Africa gathered at the Africa-Spain Summit 2025 to push for stronger cooperation in trade, migration and climate.

“Africa must occupy a more central focus as a partner of Spain and Europe,” said Espérance Kazabe, North Kivu’s Agriculture Minister, at a panel on sustainable integration, as reported by Atalayar. OECD’s Arthur Minsat urged Europe to ditch outdated fears: “There is more risk investing in Latin America than Africa,” he said, calling for a shift in perception. On migration, Spain’s Santiago Yerga Cobos stressed: “The main objective is to achieve regular, orderly and legal migration with the primary goal of finding work.”

UK business optimism

DESPITE rising costs and looming tax hikes, UK business leaders remain upbeat, according to Grant Thornton’s Business Outlook Tracker.

The firm reports that ‘all 800 respondents... have expressed optimism about the UK economy,” with mid-market businesses showing 81 per cent confidence - 11 points above the average since 2021 International Accounting Bulletin. But behind the optimism, strain is showing.

“Businesses continue to grapple with high operating and people costs,” said Grant Thornton’s Tom Middleton, pointing to April’s National Insurance and wage increases.

Despite job cuts and frozen hiring, 43 per cent of firms still plan to increase recruitment spending.

FOREIGN Secretary David Lammy announced £12 million in disaster risk funding to help vulnerable nations respond faster to climate shocks (gov.uk).

The move, backed by UK investors, aims to cut disaster recovery time abroad while fuelling green jobs at home.

Lammy said the climate crisis is ‘a huge opportunity’ for UK growth and the City of London must lead in sustainable finance.

THE EU has cut €627 million from Spain’s recovery funding over its failure to curb long-term temporary contracts in public administration (Ara).

Spain will also lose €500 million more for not hiking diesel taxes or improving local digitalisation.

Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo claims talks are ongoing, with reforms to be rushed through Congress. Will this force Spain to finally end precarious public contracts - or just patch over EU demands again?

A NEW survey shows three in four UK businesses are now using or exploring AI to boost productivity and cut costs (Business News Wales).

Adoption is highest in marketing, customer service, and analytics, with legal and HR sectors embracing AI for even phone support.

But concerns remain: 43 per cent worry about data security, while 42 per cent fear staff anxiety. Is the AI revolution helping or just replacing human jobs too quickly?

EV at a charging station.

BBVA launches crypto trading.

3I Group 4.185,00 4.222,00 4.148,00 4,09M

Group 3.270,0 3.276,0 3.238,0 229,12K

Africa

186,50 184,40 1,88M

American 2.258,0 2.258,0 2.214,0 6,02M

1.887,50 1.903,00 1.858,50 795,85K

Group 4.830,0 4.888,0 4.776,0 613,88K

British Foods 2.048,0 2.070,0 2.048,0 701,81K

10.450,0 10.614,0 10.424,0 1,73M

340,00 345,40 337,65 26,29M

Redrow 415,50 426,90 414,80 3,94M

Beazley 891,00 894,00 880,00 2,36M

Berkeley 3.680,0 3.698,0 3.666,0 420,43K

BP 402,05 403,00 390,55 45,9M

British American Tobacco 3.788,0 3.788,0 3.723,0 14,39M

Group 194,65 196,00 194,00 9,49M

2.300,0 2.334,0 2.290,0 432,76K

154,85 155,55 154,10 10,51M

HBC AG 3.920,0 3.940,0 3.904,0 293,94K

2.520,00 2.543,00 2.510,00 2,21M

Group 260,80 263,60 259,80 8,72M

4.734,0 4.798,0 4.702,0 694,59K

1.900,5 1.937,5 1.898,5 3,52M

520,20 526,40 519,40 1,73M

656,00 667,50 656,00 167,86K

1.516,00 1.517,00 1.483,00 963,85K

1.241,00 1.227,00 912,31K

Insurance crackdown

BRITISH tourists risk a

€6,900 fine if they enter Spain without valid travel insurance, Spain’s Interior and Health Ministries reportedly warned. Post-Brexit rules require full coverage for emergencies, hospitalisation and repatriation. The Spanish government says it’s essential to protect local healthcare systems.

Backing wind

UK Export Finance is guaranteeing €146 million to support a major offshore wind farm in Taiwan, unlocking contracts for British firms like Cadeler and CRP Subsea. The project will boost UK exports, support green jobs, and cut over one million tonnes of CO2 annually.

Monzo fined £21m (€25m)

DIGITAL bank Monzo has been fined £21 million (€25 million) by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for failing to prevent financial crime.

Between 2018 and 2022, Monzo allowed over 34,000 high-risk customers to open accounts using false addresses, including Buckingham Palace, 10 Downing Street, and even Monzo’s own office, according to Business Matters.

Therese Chambers of

Spain exits Eurogroup race

IRELAND’S Paschal Donohoe was re-elected as Eurogroup President unopposed, after Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo and Lithuania’s Rimantas Sadzius withdrew their bids (Capital).

Cuerpo admitted lacking support and called his exit an “exercise of responsibility” in favour of a con -

sensus pick.

Spain’s losing streak continues - after Nadia Calviño in 2020 and Luis de Guindos in 2015 - raising fresh doubts about its influence in eurozone leadership.

Spain may need to rethink its strategy before trying again in 2028.

the FCA said: “Monzo onboarded customers on the basis of limited, and in some cases, obviously implausible information - such as customers using well-known London landmarks as an address” Reuters.

Other issues included use of PO Boxes, fake postcodes, and redirected cards.

Despite a 2020 ban on opening accounts for high-risk individuals, Monzo continued doing so until 2022.

CEO TS Anil said the failings “relate to a historical period... We’ve since invested heavily in our systems and controls.”

Monzo, now with 12 million users, made £60.5 million (€82.3 million) in pretax profit last year.

The FCA says the case raises serious concerns about how well fastgrowing fintechs are managing fraud risk.

Propel Finance

UK fintech Propel Finance has secured £1.57 billion (€1.84 billion) to boost lending to small businesses, helping firms access vital equipment and vehicles (PYMNTS). With UK micro-businesses facing rejection rates five times higher than larger firms, Propel aims to bridge the gap with flexible, accessible asset financing.

CAIXABANK and Arval aim to market 200,000 vehicles in Spain by 2030, expanding on their 15year partnership to drive sustainable mobility (Asset Finance Connect). With electrified vehicles now taking 47 per cent of new production, the alliance boosts eco-friendly leasing, fleet renewal and air quality improvements across Spain.

Monzo now has 12 million users.

IF you have ever wondered what the cool setting on your hairdryer is actually for, you are not alone. While the hot setting is commonly used for fast drying, the cool button plays an important role in styling and protecting your hair.

Hot air speeds up drying by evaporating water, but it can also open the hair cuti-

Blowing hot air

cle and cause frizz, dryness, and damage over time if overused. That is where the cool setting comes in. Cool air helps to seal the hair cuticle, locking in shine and helping your style last longer. It is particularly useful for setting curls, reducing

frizz, and finishing a sleek blow dry.

Cool air will not dry your hair as quickly as hot air, but it is much gentler, making it a great choice for fine, damaged, or colour-treated hair.

Many stylists recommend

starting with warm air for drying and swit ching to cool for the final few minutes. In short, the cool setting is not just a gimmick, it is your hair’s secret weapon for healthier, longer-lasting styles.

Nature’s gold

HONEY has been prized for centuries not just as a natural sweetener but as a powerful health and beauty ally. Packed with antioxidants, antibacterial properties, and nutrients, this golden ingredient offers benefits that reach far face for 10 to 15 minutes can leave skin feeling soft, calm, and refreshed.

Internally, honey can offer relief from sore throats and coughs, especially when mixed with warm water and lemon. It is also known to support digestion and may help ease symptoms of acid reflux. Opting for raw or local honey can maximise its natural enzymes and immune supporWhile honey should be used in moderation, especially in diets, its natural power makes it a versatile addition to both your kitchen and your beauty routine. When it comes to self care, sometimes the sweetest solutions are the simplest.

Shutterstock / Rimma Bondarenko

HCB Dénia marks third anniversary

HCB Dénia Hospital, part of the family-owned HCB Hospitales group, celebrated its third anniversary on Monday July 7, having established itself as the leading private healthcare facility in the Marina Alta and southern Safor regions.

Since opening in 2022, the hospital has experienced steady growth thanks to a care model focused on personalised attention, a broad range of medical specialties, advanced technology, and multilingual, patient-centred service. It now serves both local residents and patients from over 30 countries, notably from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Scandinavia.

HCB Dénia has built a strong social and healthcare network through partnerships with local authorities, organisations, and international communities, actively engaging in prevention, integration, and health promotion activities.

The hospital is also a recognised leader in health tourism, serving as the reference hospital for Dutch patients in Spain and participating in pilot projects with the Dutch government, such as the WEBCAM CONSULT initiative.

Over the past year, core services such as Emergency Care, Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Traumatology have been reinfor-

ced with stable teams and specialised resources. New developments include a comprehensive Obesity Unit, High-Precision Prosthetic Surgery for shoulders, hips, and knees, and an Advanced Dermatology service offering surgical, cryotherapy, laser, and aesthetic treatments. There have also been expansions in Neurology, Cardiology, and Digestive Medicine, along with improvements in Vascular and Maxillofacial Surgery.

rectly influences the quality of service and staff and patient satisfaction.

The hospital is noted for its family-like atmosphere and committed professional team, offering efficient and personalised care. Manager Adolfo Vanaclocha highlighted the importance of a positive working environment, which he said di-

HCB Dénia continues to provide care without waiting lists, in the patient’s own language, with 24-hour emergency services and ICU care - the only private facility offering this between Valencia and Benidorm.

Looking ahead, the hospital remains committed to expanding its services to meet the needs of a diverse and growing population.

HCB Denia, Camino Gandia 45, 03700 Denia, Alicante hcbhospitales/denia · Tel: +34 966 130 190

MOUTH taping is a viral sleep trend where people place a small piece of medical tape over their lips before bed to encourage nose breathing. The idea is based on the belief that breathing through your nose, rather than your mouth, leads to better sleep quality and overall health. Supporters claim benefits such as reduced snoring, deeper sleep, better oxygen intake, and even improved oral health, as mouth breathing can dry out the mouth and lead to cavities or bad breath. Nose breathing also helps re -

WAKING up in the middle of the night with a sudden, sharp cramp in your calf or foot is not only painful but also incredibly disruptive. Night time leg cramps are common and usually involve a sudden tightening or spasm of the muscles, often in the calves or feet.

There are several possible causes. These cramps can be linked to dehydration or imbalances in key minerals such as magnesium, potassium, or calcium. When these levels are too low, your muscles may be more prone to spasms. Other triggers include prolonged sitting, overuse of the muscles during the day, poor circulation, or sleeping in awkward positions.

To relieve the pain, gently stretch or massage the affected

YOU might be cutting back on sugar and fat to lose weight, however salt is often overlooked and this could be holding you back. While salt does not add calories to your meals, it plays a key role in how your body manages water and can affect the number on the scale more than you might expect.

gulate airflow, filter allergens, and increase nitric oxide production, which may support heart and lung function.

However, mouth taping isn’t for everyone and can be risky for some. It is not recommended for people with sleep apnea, nasal congestion, or breathing difficulties. Improper use or using the wrong type of tape could cause discomfort, panic, or even disrupt sleep.

If you’re curious about trying mouth taping, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional first. While some people swear by it, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution and safety should always come first when it comes to sleep hacks.

Hack or health risk Easing the ache

muscle, apply a warm compress, or get up and walk around. Staying hydrated and maintaining good mineral intake can help prevent cramps.

Foods rich in cramp-fighting nutrients include bananas, sweet potatoes, spinach, yoghurt, avocados, and nuts. These provide essential magnesium, potassium, and calcium that support healthy muscle function.

For long-term prevention, combine a balanced diet with regular stretching and good hydration. If cramps persist, consult a healthcare professional.

Salty

Salt, or sodium, plays an important role in regulating fluid balance in the body. When you consume too much, your body holds on to water to dilute the excess sodium. This can lead to water retention,

making you feel bloated and temporarily increasing the number on the scale. It is not fat gain, but it can be discouraging if you are tracking your progress closely.

High salt diets can also increase cravings

for processed or high-fat foods, which may lead to overeating. Reducing your salt intake can help minimise bloating and encourage healthier eating habits.

To cut down, avoid highly processed foods, read labels carefully and flavour meals with herbs, lemon or spices instead.

Shutterstock / Sevda Ercan

Costa del Sol Tourist tax?

THE mayors of Granada, Sevilla, and Malaga announced support for a tourist tax in Andalucia during the ‘Leading Cities’ forum on July 10. Marifrán Carazo (Granada), José Luis Sanz (Sevilla), and Francisco de la Torre (Malaga) explained the tax’s potential to enhance tourism while funding services for residents and visitors. They stressed collaboration with the tourism sector to address the rapid growth in tourist numbers, which has led to issues like increased short-term rentals and rising rents affecting locals.

The mayors agreed the tax should have a clear purpose. De la Torre suggested it could offset tourism’s negative impacts, such as funding historic city centre restoration. Carazo cited Granada’s Plan Alhambra, where visitor contributions support historical renovations, as a successful model. Sanz proposed using part of the revenue for neighbourhood projects to counter ‘tourism-phobia’ and show tourism’s benefits to locals.

Axarquia

Helping the Lozanos

A YOUNG family from Periana is receiving community support after losing everything in a house fire early last week.

Sara Lozano, 26, and her husband Victoriano Núñez, 37, were asleep with their two young children (Isabel, four, and Victoriano, three), when neighbours began banging on their door.

A fire had broken out in the family’s living room and the blaze quickly burned the ground floor of the house.

Though the family escaped unharmed in the end, the damage was extensive. They lost everything, from clothes to cash. The cause of the fire was an electrical panel.

Locals jumped rapidly into action, using buckets, hoses, and even climbing up the building’s facade to keep the fire from spreading. One neighbour even offered the family a home to stay in temporarily.

But not only the citizens jumped in to help the family. The local council shared online bank details for donations.

Mallorca

Bieber’s Bombshell

UBER-FAMOUS singer Justin Bieber has finally dropped his long-awaited seventh studio album, Swag … and he did it in none other than the sunny isle of Mallorca. The 31-year-old Canadian singer, songwriter, and music producer dropped the album at 6.00am on Friday, July 11, in the Andratx municipality of Mallorca, just one day after the surprise announcement of the album. The album is the singer’s first major project in four years.

The album, which features 21 songs, is now available on all music platforms. The album cover features a black and white image of Bieber and wife Hailey behind him, along with their infant son in her arms, in an open field with an black background. The other side of the cover features another black and white image, this time of Bieber alone with his son.

Costa Blanca South Festival fever

THE summer months may be in full-swing, but the traditional beginning of summer festivities have just concluded on the Costa Blanca, and to an incredible turnout from residents and tourists. When it comes to keeping culture and tradition alive through festivals, parties, and celebrations, the Costa Blanca is a great example of how the modern person living in Spain can appreciate traditional Spanish roots. Along the Costa, the hogueras, or bonfire, events were a smash hit celebration, lighting up the beaches with music and merrymaking. Along with this, much of the Costa has celebrated the Moors and Christians Festival, a traditional event involving costumes, traditional food, and music.

The towns of Costa Blanca have celebrated personal achievements as well - such as Los Montesinos’ 18th annual Culture Week, a gathering to appreciate the residents’ talent. Rojales has also concluded a cultural festival dedicated to their patron saint, San Pedro de Apóstol.

Almeria

Dreambeach €370K boost

THE Dreambeach music festival in Villaricos, part of the Cuevas del Almanzora municipality, will receive €370,000 in municipal funding for its 2025 edition. This financial support from the local government highlights the importance of Dreambeach as a key cultural and economic event for the area. Scheduled to take place in early August, Dreambeach attracts thousands of electronic music fans annually, significantly boosting local tourism and business activity. The festival’s impact on the local economy is notable, with increased demand for accommodation, dining, and services during the event period.The allocated funds are intended to assist with essential logistical and operational needs, including infrastructure upgrades, security, public safety, and environmental management. Local authorities have prioritised these areas to ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone.

Officials emphasise that Dreambeach is not only a major entertainment event but also a driver of economic development for the region.

However, it’s no surprise Bieber chose Andratx for the announcement - the singer has recently been enjoying a holiday in Port d’Andratx with wife Hailey. Costa Calida Brave donation

A LOCAL family’s story has touched the hearts of many after their dad was diagnosed with lung cancer earlier this year. As he undergoes a tough treatment schedule, including radiotherapy five times a week and chemotherapy every three weeks, they’ve been receiving vital help from the MABS Cancer Support Foundation.

MABS, a local volunteer-run charity, provides free support for cancer patients and their families across the region. Their services include interpreters, transport, 24-hour care, emotional support, and medical equipment, all made possible through donations. In a bold show of support, his daughter, Melanie Mills, decided to do something meaningful. She flew in from the UK to shave her head and raise money for MABS Mazarron. The event raised an impressive €3,067.

Melanie originally aimed to raise £1,000 but far surpassed that target thanks to generous donations from the community.

Electric plane lands in Copenhagen

IN a major step toward greener aviation, the first all-electric aircraft recently landed at Copenhagen Airport, completing a journey from Sønderborg (325 kilometres west of Copenhagen) in approximately one hour.

The test flight, carried out by US company Beta Technologies, marked Denmark’s first electric domestic flight and drew crowds of journalists, airport workers, and aviation fans.

The aircraft, called ALIA CTOL, is a five-seat electric plane with a wingspan of 15 metres. It runs entirely on electricity and emits up to 84 per cent less carbon dioxide than similar-sized helicopters. According to Beta Technologies, it can fly up to 622 kilometres on a single charge and reach speeds of 281 km/h.

“The future is right here

in front of us,” said Christian Poulsen, director of Copenhagen Airport, as quoted by Politiken.

Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen stated: “Danes should not fly less; they should fly greener.”

The Danish government aims to make all domestic flights fossil-free by 2030. Despite the excitement, experts warn that battery technology is still a major hurdle. Peter Omand

Rasmussen, a researcher at Aalborg University, called the event ‘alright, but it doesn’t make a difference’, likening the aircraft to ‘an electric moped’ rather than a commercial gamechanger (cited by Politiken).

He explained that current batteries are too heavy and inefficient to support large-scale passenger flights. “Air traffic is one of the hardest things to electrify,” he added.

Flamingo risotto

RICE is one of the most important food crops, feeding millions of people across the world and there are many different types of rice to enjoy.

In Italy, there is the famous risotto which isn’t a rice in its own right, but is made from one of a number of different types of rice such as Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano, all of which can absorb a great deal of moisture without becoming mushy.

There are a number of paddy fields in northern Italy where the expensive rice used in risottos is grown, but there is an unexpected and unwelcome problem. Flocks of flamingos have made the journey from southern Spain, France and even north Africa have migrated to

Lower prices

9 OUT 10 CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US

In a recent survey of our customers after using Línea Directa’s Roadside Assistance and breakdown services, over 90 per cent said they would happily recommend our insurance services to a friend or colleague. Línea Directa would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to answer the questions in our survey as it has given us valuable feedback on our services and enabled us to integrate positive changes and continue to provide expert solutions for overseas residents in Spain.

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH

Car, bike and home insurance, with absolutely everything in English. The emergency and claims hotline is fast and efficient, with quick no obligation quo tes over the pho ne. The customer service team will help you decide on the best policy and there are easy payment options so you can spread the cost of your premiums.

Person’s Night-time Assistance. And their car insurance includes helpful services such as Legal Assistance that can provide help when applying for or renewing your driving licence in Spain.

EXPAT2EXPAT REWARD PROGRAMME

When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 917 002 006 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium. For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com.

LOWER THE PRICE

OF YOUR

DID YOU KNOW?

All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

INSURANCE

Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

Italy due to drought conditions over the past few years and they just love to adopt paddy fields.

The flamingos haven’t suddenly become gourmet eaters dining out on risotto, but the paddy fields are ideal for them to use their webbed feet to stir up the soil and snatch molluscs, algae or insects from the shallow water, with the rice being uprooted during the process. Farmers are in a quandary as they can’t simply kill the flamingos which are ruining their livelihoods.

The local rice growers association is looking at ways to discourage the flamingos from choosing their fields and it may well be they will have to reduce the depth of water in their paddy fields.

Electric plane, Copenhagen.

Pretty flamingos can become a curse.

Credit: Lisabauable

Sweden rents cells

AS has become clear over recent years, violent crime in Sweden has been getting out of hand and the police and authorities are going to take a new hard line.

Known for its tolerant culture, Sweden practised the concept of criminal rehabilitation, but with a change of politics in government, so its policy on criminals is hardening.

Currently there are just under 8,000 prisoners in Swedish jails but as gang violence explodes, with the children of migrants often being lured into violence as they see little chance of honest work, the number of places in cells is expected to literally explode.

The latest plan being implemented by the Kriminalvården (the Swedish prison

and probation service) following instructions from the Swedish Justice Ministry is to rent spaces in jails in Estonia.

An in principle agreement which was entered into between Estonia and Sweden in June showed that up to 600 prison places would be made available in Estonian prisons and that is being put into practice now.

So worried is the government about the criminality in Sweden that it is reviewing whether the age of criminal responsibility should be lowered from 15 to 14 and one party is calling for it to go down to 13.

Sweden and Estonia need to formally approve the decision, so the first prison spaces are unlikely to be made free until 2026.

‘Disney Palace’ in Portugal

A FAIRYTALE-STYLE palace in Sintra, Portugal that was once abandoned and vandalised is back on the market for €24 million after a major luxury renovation.

Once left to decay in the hills of Sintra, Portugal’s so-called ‘Disney Palace’ has returned to the property market, now listed for €24 million following a complete high-end refurbishment. Officially named Quinta da Felicidade, the mansion is the vision of Carlos Manuel Maia Nogueira (a pioneer of Portugal’s tech scene in the 1980s) who built the estate as a tribute to Disney architecture.

The story of Quinta da Felicidade began in the 1980s when Maia Nogueira, dubbed the ‘King of Microcomputing’ for introducing Portugal’s first personal computer, bought a plot in Sintra’s Malvei -

ra da Serra. Inspired by Disney castles, he built a sprawling mansion with a replica of the Disneyland Paris palace next door - a structure authorised with photos and blueprints directly from Disneyland Paris itself.

But behind the glamour was a darker tale. His company Solbi, which once generated over €100 million

annually, collapsed in 2008 with more than €20 million in debt. By 2011, Maia Nogueira was living in a basement flat on a €500 pension. The mansion, tied up in legal disputes, fell into ruin. Its remote location made it a magnet for squatters, illegal parties, and vandals. Now photos of its transformation have gone viral.

Transporting a prisoner to jail.

Credit: Kriminalvården

Quinta da Felicidade, Portugal’s ‘Disney Palace’.

Banksy, boffins and blistering sunburn!

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

RECENT research suggests that canny cavemen like Fred Flintstone protected themselves from dangerous ultraviolet light from the sun by living in caves, wearing protective clothing and using ‘prehistoric sunscreen’. Reportedly, real-life Flintstones slathered themselves in ochre - a naturally occurring pigment with sun-protective properties composed of iron oxide, clay and silica. In fact, ochre had already been used by Neanderthals over time for painting cave walls or even body decoration and objects - like the red ochre dot recently discovered on a rock near Segovia. (Though some might argue that particular dot, or fingerprint, is the work of a Neanderthal Banksy - with all the hallmarks of his searing wit, scathing satire and prescient political insight!)

Boffins believe early humans smothered themselves in ochre during the shifting of the magnetic North Pole over Europe 41,000 years ago, which allowed more harmful solar radiation, including ultraviolet light, to reach the Earth’s surface.

On top of all that, boffins reckon the Stone Age sun protection helped real-life Flintstones survive and spread throughout Europe and Asia, and they may have benefited from living in caves and even tailored clothing too. But rival Neanderthals lacked the technologies to protect themselves from solar radiation and disappeared around that time. So, early humans adapted by using ochre SPF, seeking shelter in caves and developing more clothing - in the latest tailored ‘Cave Man’ style. Reality IS stranger than fiction!

Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Are fairs fair?

I DON’T know… but the question certainly sounds fair enough.

I remember my first visits to Spain as a tourist. During Feria, I’d wake up nearly every night, wide-eyed and wondering:

Is this ever going to end? Are they here on a three-month visa?

It felt like a theme park had set up camp in my living room, except it was the Plaza del Pueblo, entertaining the kids and tormenting the rest of us.

These thoughts ran wild during those disco-pumping, sleepless nights, my windows trembling to the rhythm of reggaeton, merengue, or whatever genre was blasting.

One night, curious, I went to see for myself. I threw on my best dotted shirt, looking like a lost tourist who took a wrong turn into chaos.

First thing I noticed? Beautiful people, dressed for the occasion, radiating joy. Laughter, food, drinks, and kids flying out of human blender ridesred-faced, dizzy, loving it.

Then I got close to one of the rides, glowing like a stretch of Las Vegas or a Christmas tree ready for liftoff - BAM! The sound hit me like a cannonball. I swear it threw me back 300 metres.

It felt like a sonic bomb. My skin pulled so tight from the blast, I skipped plastic surgery, 10 years younger, mildly traumatised, richer for it.

So, are fairs really fair?

Well, if you live 100, 200, or even 500 metres from the Recinto Ferial, congratulations, you’re part of the soundtrack, whether you like it or not.

Fair? Only if you enjoy sleeping with a

live concert in your bedroom.

And why are they always in the hottest months? Couldn’t they pick a cooler time? With climate change, soon they’ll all be squeezed into December.

Yeah, Mariah Carey, you’ll get three seconds to sing ‘All I Want for Christmas’ - we’ve got other stuff to celebrate.

But let’s flip the coin.

If you’re a local, with kids, your partner, in-laws, and that random friend your kid dragged along, you’re not just going to the fair. You’re heading into financial danger.

Because joy isn’t cheap.

Rides are around €4 each. Three kids, eight rides? Add snacks, food, drinks and suddenly you’re dialling the bank.

“Hi, yes, it’s the fair again…”

So, are fairs fair?

They’re loud, pricey, unforgettable. Your wallet decides.

For residents who hate the noise, sleepless nights, rattled windows, panicked pets - maybe fairs aren’t totally fair.

But hey, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Locals know how to prepare. They plan ahead and adapt.

It’s us newcomers who have to learn to roll with it.

Because honestly, these events are wonderful: safe, colourful, full of life. Families come together, kids have fun, rides are checked, security is present. It’s summer at full volume.

And while we’re here, it’s our culture, our summer, our neighbourhood - together.

So yes, even if I wrote this wide awake, blasted by reggaeton at midnight, my verdict is simple: Fairs are fair.

Loud.

But mostly, fair - and lovely. aif2018@hotmail.com

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

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA FROM COAST TO COAST

PETS

Lupa likes staying at home with pet-sitters

LUPA and her twin Rio just love staying at home with sitters. They are so comfortable, and feel safe in their own home. And having a new house-sitter to play with their house and pet-sitters. It’s fun! And best of all their owners know they are safe and being looked after at home. And it doesn’t cost them a penny. Because the pet-sitters care for them in exchange for free accommodation.

HouseSitMatch saves you money

Our role at HouseSitMatch is to promote collaborative exchange enabling house-sitting and pet-sitting matches, through our managed online system. You experience free accommodation for free pet care! It means everyone benefits in that exchange.

HouseSitMatch is safe - all members are checked

All members are checked for safety, and you choose which housesitters 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 travel this year, join now. Get organised today:

1. Register as a house-sitter or a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.

com

2. Join for as little as £89 / €99 per year

3. Create a profile with photos

4. Sitters apply for the available house-sits, you hold a video interview via the site and match! How does it work?

Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then house-sitters build a profile and homeowners build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

HouseSitMatch is an amazing community of caring and supportive people who can take care of your house and pets in exchange for accommodation.

I’ve always met the loveliest people and never had any problems with handing over my house and my pet. Always in safe hands. Lamia is also very supportive and interacts directly with users of the website. Couldn’t recommend it more!

Dog owner - Juana Date of experience: June 6, 2025

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com Need a pet-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!

Paws paradise

IF you are living in sunny Spain with pets, creating a safe and comfortable garden for them to enjoy is essential. It is important to design a space that keeps them cool, active and safe. Start by choosing non-toxic plants. Safe options include sunflowers, snapdragons, marigolds and herbs like rosemary, basil and thyme. Provide plenty of shaded areas using trees, pergolas or pet-friendly umbrellas. A shaded corner with a water bowl and a cool mat.

For flooring, consider using grass, dirt patches, or pet-safe artificial turf.

TIP Looking after Persian cats

PERSIAN cats require regular grooming, a balanced diet, and a calm environment to thrive. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and hairballs, and they may need occasional baths. A high-quality, protein-rich diet is important, and providing a safe, stress-free space is key. Regular vet checkups are also crucial due to potential health issues.

Lupa is a very relaxed West Highland Terrier.

ASPHALT DRIVES

ALARMS

AUCTIONS

BLINDS

SOLAR ENERGY

Swimwear driving fines

PLANNING to drive along Spain’s sun-drenched coast this summer? Don’t be tempted to hop behind the wheel in just your bikini or swim shorts after a day at the beachdoing so could cost you a €200 fine and even three points on your driving licence.

Every year, thousands of drivers, including tourists and locals, get caught out by this surprisingly costly rule. While it might feel natural to jump in the car straight from the sand, Spanish law says otherwise.

So, is driving in swimwear actually illegal? The answer is more nuanced. Spain’s traffic laws don’t mention bikinis, trunks, or even flip-flops specifically. But Article 17 of the Reglamento Gene-

ral de Circulación states that drivers must always be in a condition to fully control their vehicle.

Article 18 adds that drivers must maintain freedom of movement, a full field of vision, and un-

divided attention on the road. Ultimately, it’s up to the officer who stops you to decide if your beach attire could affect your driving - whether it’s slipping on the pedals, struggling to operate controls, or being unable to react quickly in an emergency. This means that if the police believe your outfit is unsafe, you could face an immediate fine and a penalty on your licence. Authorities recommend always slipping on a t-shirt, cover-up, and proper shoes before you drive.

Car cooling hack

EVERY summer in Spain, the scorching sun can turn your car into a furnace in minutes, making even the shortest drive uncomfortable. But what if you could cool things down in less than a minute - without the air conditioning? Enter the Japanese door-flap trick, a clever hack that’s gone viral on Spanish social media.

Here’s how it works: as soon as you get back to your car, roll down one window - any will do. Then, walk around to the opposite door, open it wide, and start swinging it open and closed five or six times. It might feel odd, but it’s surprisingly effective. The rapid movement pushes hot air out and draws in cooler air from outside, instantly lowering the temperature by several degrees. You’ll feel the difference immediately - no more burning hands on the steering wheel.

This method isn’t just another TikTok fad. Car experts and thousands of Spanish motorists swear by it for its quick results, especially before switching on the air con. By dumping the hottest air first, you give your air conditioning a fighting chance, so it cools the car faster and with less effort.

Of course, there are other tricks to keep your car from turning into a sauna: park in the shade whenever possible, use a reflective sunshade on your windshield, and throw a towel over the steering wheel or seats. Cracking the windows just a little can also help, but only if you’re parked in a safe spot.

Enjoy the coast, but remember to follow road rules.

Audi A5 Avant – premium and stylish alternative to an SUV

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

IN an age where the SUV rules there are few alternatives, but there are some thanks to manufacturers like Audi who still build proper estate cars. The A5 Avant range is one of those proper estates and offers practicality, style and a wide range of power options including petrol, diesel and hybrid.

lead-in model.

Although as with all car makers costs have been cut, Audi still manage to produce cars that not only feel premium but drive premium too. As ever there’s the usual touchscreen but at least the A5 still has some buttons. The dreaded driver annoyance, sorry assistance, features are easier to turn off than many cars but still require you to repeat the process every time you restart the car.

On the road my Edition 1 model

€67,805/£58,425 it comes with niceties such as heated front and rear seats, power front seats, heated and electrically adjustable steering wheel, head-up display, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, wireless charging and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system as standard.

All models come with the seven-speed automatic gearbox that provides some well-chosen ratios. The ride does feel on the firm side but not uncomfortably so and the A5

delight. With mild hybrid electric power the Audi returns an average of 4.4 litres per 100km/53.3 mpg and emits 138 g/km with the benchmark 0 to 100kph/62mph in just 7.7 seconds with a top speed of 239kph/149 mph. If you’re looking for a stylish automotive holdall with a difference then the Audi Avant line-up, especially the A5, should be on your shopping list. It offers a great mix of power options, impressive levels of standard equipment, a distinctly premium

Chelsea’s name in history

WHAT was for many an unexpected outcome for this Club World Cup final. Chelsea plowed the field with nothing but forward attack, leaving PSG wondering where on earth these underdogs had come from. PSG, being the favourite to win the final, having devoured every team in their way, found themselves paralysed by the one and only Cole Palmer.

races without a podium, the Sauber

driver finally got his long-awaited top

ly and kept it clean in tricky conditions, well done him! Max Verstappen, who started on pole, spun mid-race and considering it could have been a lot worse he had to settle for fifth, Lewis

With Piastri and Norris now just eight points apart in the championship, and McLaren clearly on a roll, the title fight is heating up. But on Sunday, it was Norris’s moment, a home hero in front of a drenched but roaring Silverstone

In the first half, PSG had nowhere to turn whilst Chelsea claimed dominance over the pitch with three goals, two by Palmer and a cracking assist by Palmer for the third, which was scored by João Pedro. PSG looked stunned, flat-footed, and frankly not ready for the storm they had just walked into. Chelsea, meanwhile, looked like a team possessed, fast, fluid, fearless.

The second half was met with a desperate PSG, while Chelsea turned to defence and counterattacks. A red card was handed out to João Neves for a blatant hair yank on Cucurella’s hair. Couldn’t blame him though, Cucurella had played the entire match provoking and sneaking around.

PSG were crumbling, trying anything to claw their way back, but Chelsea

were just too good.

Cole Palmer was named MVP of the match, and rightfully so, a constant threat, cool as ice as you like, and always in the right place at the right time. The trophy ceremony added one last twist, with none other than Donald Trump handing out the best and biggest awards. With this win, Chelsea make history, being the first club to win every single competition.