Costa Blanca North 25 Sept – 1 Oct 2025 Issue 2099

Tourist turnaround

JAVEA Town Hall has decided to partially lift its ban on tourist rentals, once again allowing them in detached and semi-detached homes while keeping restrictions for flats and apartment blocks. The move, unanimously approved by the Urban Planning Commission, still requires full council ratification. The prohibition on new tourist licences, known as urban compatibility reports, has been in force since September 26, 2024. It will now remain only for multi-family buildings, meaning apartments and blocks are excluded.

A University of Alicante study found that holiday rentals in apartment buildings generate the greatest tensions. Problems include higher housing prices, disputes in communal areas such as lifts, pools and gardens, and depopulation in zones like the Port and Old Town. For this reason, the

council argues more time is needed to design regulations that safeguard residents.

By contrast, villas were deemed less problematic as they lack shared spaces and target a different market. Councillors also highlighted their contribution to off-season tourism and jobs in areas such as Cabo de la

Nao. Official figures reveal that Javea’s holiday rentals dropped from 6,161 in August 2024 to 4,321 this year.

Costa Blanca North • No. 2099 • 25 Sept - 1 Oct 2025 FREE

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS

Improvement works on Arenal-Bol

CALPE Town Hall began works on Monday September 22 to upgrade and maintain the Arenal-Bol beach promenade, with the aim of improving pedestrian safety and addressing existing deficiencies in the pavement and surrounding structures.

The project includes repairing the pavement, reinforcing the stone wall, and replacing the deteriorated coping stones.

Benidorm officer abroad

Town Hall

Credit: Calpe

The project includes repairing the pavement.

The intervention seeks to bring the promenade in line with the standards of urbanised areas, ensuring a safer and more accessible space for both residents and visitors.

The works, awarded with a budget of €155,340, are scheduled to last 10 weeks, with the possibility of a maximum one-month extension. They form part of the council’s commitment to preserving and enhancing public spaces, particularly those along the coastline.

With this initiative, Calpe Town Hall continues to improve key infrastructure in the municipality, prioritising projects that have a positive impact on safety, urban image and the overall quality of public spaces.

SPANISH National Police officers have for the first time carried out patrols in the Netherlands as part of the successful European Stations Project, aimed at strengthening support for tourists and reinforcing security.

For one week, two officers – one from Benidorm and another from Palma de Mallorca – joined Dutch colleagues in the towns of Zaanstad and Zandvoort, in the North Holland region. Their mission was to offer assistance to Spanish citizens abroad and to contribute to crime prevention during the busy summer period.

The collaboration coincided with the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Zandvoort, an international event attracting more than 140,000 spectators.

The coastal town, known as the closest beach resort to Amster -

dam, receives a large influx of visitors each year. The mayor of Zandvoort welcomed the Spanish officers and underlined the importance of cross-border cooperation in keeping both locals and tourists safe.

Both officers integrated into regular shifts at two Dutch police sta-

tions, working side by side with local forces. With previous experience in crime prevention and fluency in Dutch and English, they were well prepared to support tourists in need of translation or assistance with reports, as well as to participate in visible patrols on foot and by car.

Experience in crime prevention and fluency in Dutch and English.

Closet to tax office

Spain tracks online sellers

SELLING second-hand clothes online has long been an easy way to clear wardrobes and earn pocket money. Apps like Vinted, Wallapop or eBay made it simple to turn unused items into cash. But what once felt like harmless decluttering has now caught the eye of Spain’s tax authority, Hacienda. Thanks to a new EU directive, frequent sellers may find their names reported to the authorities and profits treated as taxable income.

At the core of this change is DAC7, an EU rule applied in Spain since January 2024. It requires digital platforms to report anyone who exceeds €2,000 in sales or completes more than 30 transactions in a single year. That doesn’t mean every seller pays tax, but it does mean Hacienda will know who crosses the line. The deciding factor is profit: selling old trainers for €40 when you paid €70 creates no gain, but flipping them for €100 generates €30 profit, which must be declared as income.

Profits are taxed as capital gains, at 19 per cent for smaller amounts and up to 23 per cent for larger ones. Casual users need not panic - occasional sales won’t usually trigger tax bills. The focus is on habitual sellers turning resale into undeclared business. Still, the risks are real. Without receipts, it is hard to prove you sold at a loss, and Hacienda may assume otherwise. Experts advise keeping purchase records, screenshots or bank statements as proof. Fines can be severe: up to 150 per cent of unpaid tax, plus €200 penalties for minor reporting errors.

VAT doesn’t apply to private resales between individuals, but buyers are technically liable for transfer tax, though rarely enforced on small items. The bottom line: occasional clearouts are safe, but steady profits attract Hacienda’s attention. Keep receipts, declare real gains, and check draft returns carefully to avoid trouble. What began as a simple side hustle now comes with strings attached.

Stay longer in Spain

Visas beyond 90 day rule

DREAMING of stretching your Spanish stay beyond lazy lunches and endless sunsets? For non-EU visitors, the Schengen 90/180-day rule sets the limit: 90 days in any rolling 180-day period across the Schengen zone, Spain included. Time in France, Italy or Portugal counts too. Property ownership doesn’t add days, and a quick weekend outside Schengen won’t reset the clock. The only way to extend legally is through residence routes.

Here’s the rule in practice: on any day you’re in Spain, look back 180 days and total your Schengen time. If it’s 90 days or less, you’re compliant. Exceed it and you risk fines of €500-€1,000, removal, re-entry bans and future visa problems. Spain enforces overstays strictly, and from October 2025 the EU’s new Entry/Exit System will tighten checks further.

So how to stay longer? Popular routes include Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers and freelancers with overseas income, with fast-track applications possible even from within Spain. Student residency is available for recognised courses, including language schools.

Family ties also count: spouses or close relatives of EU citizens can apply for an EU family member card. Professionals may qualify under the ‘Entrepreneurs Law’ or through a genuine business plan. Non-lucrative visas, often chosen by retirees, usually start at a Spanish consulate. Emergency extensions apply only in rare humanitarian or medical cases.

Note: the 90-day limit differs from Spain’s 183-day tax rule, which makes you tax resident on global income.

Digital nomad visa Protecting homes

Remote work made legal

SPAIN’S Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) has become one of the most talked-about residence permits since its launch in 2023. Updated for 2025, it gives non-EU citizens the right to live and work remotely from Spain for up to five years, offering not just sunshine and lifestyle but also a tax regime that can ease the financial load.

The visa targets two

yees with contracts from companies outside Spain and freelancers whose main clients are abroad. For the self-employed, the ‘20 per cent rule’ applies - no more than one-fifth of income can come from Spanish clients. A major plus is family inclusion: spouses or partners and dependent children can join the main applicant.

Financial re-

are pegged to Spain’s minimum wage. In 2025, a single applicant must show monthly income of at least €2,760; couples €3,797; and each child adds €346. For a family of four, that means €4,489. Proof comes via payslips, contracts and bank statements. Applicants must also show qualifications - either a degree, professional certificates or at least three years of work history. Other essentials include a clean criminal record, private health insurance valid in Spain and proof that employers or clients have been active for at least a year.

There are two application paths. Apply through your home-country consulate and you’ll receive a one-year visa, renewable once in Spain. Apply while in Spain on a tourist stay and, if approved, you begin with a three-year residency permit. Both involve heavy paperwork, so many applicants use a gestor or immigration lawyer.

A further incentive is the so-called Beckham Law, which allows new tax residents to pay a flat 24 per cent rate on earnings up to €600,000.

Faster evictions, stronger rights

SPAIN has unveiled a landmark 2025 reform to tackle illegal squatting, bringing long-awaited relief to homeowners, including many British expats. The new ‘anti-okupa’ law introduces faster evictions, tougher penalties and stronger rights for property owners - the most significant housing protection shake-up in years. Central to the reform is the new 48-hour eviction rule, allowing police to remove squatters immediately if a break-in is reported within two days. Squatting is now treated as criminal trespass in many cases, meaning owners no longer face months of court delays.

The law also targets organised squatting gangs with heavier sentences and closes loopholes that let squatters delay removal by falsely claiming vulnerability. Owners may now legally cut off utilities such as water, electricity and gas - previously prohibited.

For expats, the message is clear: act fast, file a police report, keep ownership documents ready, and use neighbours or security systems to prove when the break-in happened. Legal specialists in desokupación and anti-squatter insurance can also speed resolution.

Prevention remains vital: vet tenants carefully, use proper contracts, and invest in smart security. Expat networks, local communities and watchful neighbours will all play a role in safeguarding homes.

With this reform, Spain aims to restore confidence in its property market and give landlords the upper hand in the long fight against illegal occupation.

Credit : Okrasiuk, Shutterstock

A woman photographs clothes to sell on second-hand apps.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa: Your gateway to living and working in Spain. Credit :

Entertainers raise €1,300

The audience enjoyed a variety of superb costumes and a wide range of musical genres.

WITH the sun setting over the Los Arcos gardens, The Entertainers opened their autumn season with a performance for The Royal British Legion, Javea Branch, on Thursday September 11.

In this picturesque setting, RBL members and guests gathered to greet each other and set out their picnics as the group began their show with a selection of listening songs, gradually building towards the dancing theme of the second set.

The audience enjoyed a variety of superb costumes and a wide range of musical genres performed by the seven-piece group. Many sang along to their favourites while enjoying their picnics and evening drinks.

Credit: The Entertainers

Smart buoys

The performance highlighted the diversity of the group’s repertoire. Linda opened with Yesterday Once More by The Carpenters, followed by Bonnie Tyler’s It’s A Heartache.

Other members also shone, with Bob’s guitar-accompanied performance of Can’t Help Falling in Love receiving enthusiastic applause. The group’s rousing version of Another Brick in the Wall, complete with two schoolgirl dancers, closed the first set and ensured the audience was ready to dance through the night.

During the interval, the RBL raffle was drawn, with more than €1,300 raised at the event. These funds contributed to national support for war veterans living in Spain.

Leadership starts with play

CAYRO, a Spanish board game company with more than 70 years of experience in the sector, has been recognised at the 2025 Best Toy Awards, organised by the Spanish Association of Toy Manufacturers (AEFJ).

The game Anne Bonny’s Malediction won in the category Best Toy to Promote Equality, praised for placing a historic woman at the centre as a symbol of female leadership. Anne Bonny, the 18th century pirate, drives the game’s storyline as the main character, offering players an experience where courage, strategy and wit

take centre stage. Each decision, each move with cards and dice, brings players

BENIDORM has taken a new step towards sustainability and innovation with the installation of two smart buoys off Poniente and Levante beaches. The devices, introduced this week, will provide real-time data to assess water quality and help protect the coastal ecosystem, according to councillor for Beaches and Environment, Mónica Gómez.

Gómez explained that the system will complement the checks already carried out by the Municipal Laboratory, which monitors beach waters weekly during summer and every 15 days for the rest of the year. The buoys will record key parameters including water temperature, presence of hydrocarbons, dissolved organic matter, salinity, turbidity and oxygen levels. This information will allow the creation of daily water quality reports for both residents and visitors, and will also support initiatives aimed at preserving the natural heritage of the coastline.

The game Anne Bonny’s Malediction won in the category Best Toy to Promote Equality.

closer to earning a place in her crew, encouraging teamwork and interaction.

The award, presented on Wednesday September 17, highlights Cayro’s commitment to inclusion and the representation of strong and inspiring female role models in the world of play.

Cayro was also a finalist in the category Best Sustainable Toy with Make your Bubble Tea, a game that combines fun with environmentally responsible materials.

As part of the project Benidorm, smart and sustainable tourist destination, the data will be accessible through a new mobile app and a municipal beach website due to launch shortly. In addition, the information will be integrated into the city’s Tourism Intelligence platform, enabling local authorities to make better-informed decisions.

Each buoy weighs around 360 kilos and has been specially designed to remain stable and visible to passing vessels.

Credit: Spanish Association of Toy Manufacturers

Music against climate change Charity raffle

AT the September General Meeting, attended by 55 members, a commendable €226 was raised on the Charity Ra e. This was a record gure for a monthly meeting and the money will be used to support four needy causes this autumn.

Namely Busy Bees Benidorm who support children and vulnerable women, the Franciscan Hospice in Gandia caring for homeless individuals, many of whom have mental and physical illnesses, Age in Spain who are dedicated to enhancing the lives of English-speaking older adults in Spain and Alfaz Food Bank who regularly help needy families in Alfaz del Pi and Albir. At the November General Meeting there will be a collection of toys and gifts for use as Christmas gifts for children of identi ed families.

The next General Meeting will take place on Monday October 27 at the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi at 11.00am.

New members are always welcome to come along.

PLATFORM

Música pel clima continues to show how culture can be transformed into climate action. In 2024 it launched the campaign 1 concert, 1 arbre, raising €2,500 through 180 musical performances.

The funds went towards reforestation and soil regeneration, resulting in 180 trees planted in Pego, an area devastated by the 2022 wildfire that swept through les Valls de la Marina.

This year the project has already surpassed 200 concerts, which will translate into another 200 trees. Together with last year’s effort, the total reaches 380 trees, marking an important step towards restoring a landscape severely affected by deforestation.

Originally created as a local initiative in Paiporta Circular, Música pel clima has grown into a nationwide network. It now brings together more than 150 artists - including The Shag Sharks, The Hot Notes, Petit Comité and El Globo - alongside over 15 environmental groups such as Mans al Terra, Per L’Horta and Acció Ecologista Agró.

“Music unites, the planet cannot wait. We are

creating culture that plants seeds,” explained spokesperson Guillermo Valero.

The platform is now calling on more artists, cultural promoters and venues to collaborate by hiring the bands in its catalogue and using its eco-friendly sound system.

It also thanks the public for attending events and amplifying its message.

Credit:

Música pel clima

This year the project has already surpassed 200 concerts, which will translate into another 200 trees.

Classic Mustangs & Corvettes

ON Saturday October 11 and Sunday 12, the Balearia Port - Denia Yacht Club will host the third edition of the American Car & Bike Meeting, organised by Costa Blanca Mustang Owners.

Visitors will have the chance to admire a line-up of iconic models, from the legendary Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Corvette to Harley-Davidson motorbikes, alongside more modern machines. The schedule is split over two days: Saturday dedicated solely to cars, while Sunday expands to include both cars and motorbikes, ensuring an exciting programme for petrolheads of all ages.

Beyond the engines and chrome, the event has a

powerful charitable mission. Funds will be raised for INCLIVA, the Biomedical Research Institute in Valencia. In previous editions, around €10,000 has been donated thanks to the generosity of participants and visitors. This year, organisers are determined to

surpass that figure and continue backing vital medical research.

Supporters can contribute in various ways: by donating products or vouchers for the charity raffle, making a direct financial contribution, attending the event, or simply spreading the word. Donations can also be made directly through the official website. The harbour setting will be alive with gleaming vehicles, lively raffles, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Contact: 678 908 233 grupomarcosmarco.com

Benidorm takes sleep seriously

BENIDORM is giving residents and visitors the gift of peace and quiet, with traffic noise pollution dropping to almost non-existent levels.

According to the city’s latest noise map, revealed during the recent Mobility Council meeting, only 0.1 per cent of the population is exposed to daytime traffic noise above 65 decibels. Back in 2019, the figure was 4.7 per cent. At night, the improvement is even clearer: from 6.6 per cent affected in 2019 to absolutely zero in 2025.

It seems Benidorm is officially one of the best places in Spain to

It seems Benidorm is officially one of the best places in Spain to enjoy a good sleep.

enjoy a good night’s sleep - or the country’s most treasured tradition, the afternoon siesta.

The study credits a series of measures introduced over the past decade, including reducing speed limits from 50 to 30 km/h, cutting traffic in pedestrian areas, expanding cycle lanes, removing the AP-7 toll, and improving traffic flow.

Mayor Toni Pérez said the results are “outstanding”, noting: “Our city traffic moves more slowly and, as a result, generates less noise.”

With quieter streets, cleaner mobility and a nod to Spain’s love of rest, Benidorm may have just earned itself a reputation as the city that truly respects sleep.

Visitors will have the chance to admire a line-up of iconic models.

Credit: Costa Blanca Mustang Owners Facebook

Will Rodrigues / Shutterstock.com

Party at the plantation

A magical night was had by all.

SEPTEMBER 18 was a day to remember, after JEC Costa Blanca Jaguar Car Club enjoyed their garden party in the lush tropical gardens of the events hotel La Plantation in Finestrat .

After time for a meet and great with a drink from the outside bar, lunch was served at 3pm under the shade of trees where a fine mist of water intermittently sprayed to keep everyone cool.

At 5pm the entertainment began when the Costa Blues Brothers started their live performance creating a fantastic atmosphere that had the dance floor full of energetic dancers, who danced to their live singing and instrument playing.

A magical night was had by all when the gardens came to life, after many mystical li-

ghts began shining brightly over the tables, and the beautiful swimming pool along with many palm trees stood out of the darkness in a wonderful display of colour, truly creating the most wonderful backdrop to the dance area.

The event had been booked for 50 people and 16 of them were lucky to be able to book the night in the hotel’s luxurious rooms, as they only have eight rooms, so other members booked rooms in nearby hotels for the night, as some had travelled quite a distance to attend this amazing Jaguar event . If you would like to join them and own a Jaguar then email Mike on mikebikejec@gmail. com. Or ring on 0034 640 866 711, Whatsapp as well .

Low jobless figures

AUGUST usually brings a rise in unemployment as the summer tourist season winds down. Yet in Marina Alta the impact has been minimal this year. At the end of August 2025, unemployment increased by just two people compared to July, far below the national and regional average rise of nearly 1 per cent. The total number of jobseekers in the comarca now stands at 7,466, the lowest for an August since 2007, when the figure was 5,267, before the housing crisis.

According to the Observatori del Creama, Social Security affiliation dropped by 328 contributors last month, leaving 66,909 people in work. Both the small rise in unemployment and the de -

cline in affiliation were softer than in August 2024, when 56 more people were jobless. In fact, this summer’s increase is also below the pre-pandemic average for the month, when unemployment typically rose by around 29 people.

The sectors losing the most workers were construction, with 123 fewer affiliates, and food and beverage services, which fell by

104. Other areas such as entertainment and education also contracted, but to a lesser extent. This reflects the strong seasonality of the local economy, with temporary jobs tied to the summer ending in August.

Despite the decline, Social Security affiliation remains above 65,000, supported by three consecutive monthly gains earlier this year.

The sectors losing the most workers were construction and food.

RESIDENTS of Vall de Laguar are once again left without safe drinking water, despite months of heavy rainfall and the inauguration of a new treatment plant just two months ago.

The municipality is one of the most water-abundant in the

Without safe water again

Valencian Community.

Data from Avamet shows 764 millimetres of rainfall so far in 2025, making it the 10th wettest location in the region.

Still, on September 9 the town hall declared the supply unfit for human consumption.

In Benimaurell, one of the three villages alongside Fleix and Campell, residents complain of long-standing problems with leaks, interruptions and discoloured water.

“Pipes are in poor condition, we suffer constant cuts and often soil comes out of the taps,” one neighbour said, adding that the council always responds there are no funds for repairs.

ageing Lucifer well. The new facility built by Ali -

Council

only filters about 40 per cent, while Calpe avoids the problem with a modern plant filtering up to 95 per cent.

A higher investment would have been needed for Vall de Laguar, or alternatively channelling water from Calpe via Murla. Mengual confirmed talks with Calpe’s water company to find urgent solutions.

Residents remain frustrated, accusing the Provincial Council of prioritising Calpe’s tourism over their basic needs.

The splendour of Mughal India

HISTORY and art enthusiasts are invited to delve into the rich cultural heritage of 16th to 18th century India at an engaging lecture

hosted by The Arts Society Marina Alta (TASMA) on Wednesday, October 1.

Titled ‘The Architecture of Mughal India’, the talk will be presented by Dr John Alexander Stevens, who will explore the era’s exquisite palaces, mosques, and gardens that reflect the grandeur and sophistication of the Mughal Empire.

Attendees have the choice of two sessions:

• Morning: Espai La Senieta, Av Madrid 15, Moraira – doors open 10.15 for an 11.00 start.

• Evening: Casa de la Cultura, Plaça de Baix 6, Jávea – doors open 18.45 for a 19.30 start. Entry is free for members, while guests can attend by making a €15 prepaid donation via www.artsocma.org.

Mayor Carles Mengual explained that turbidity originates from the

cante Provincial

Vall de Laguar residents remain frustrated.

Helicopter rescues hiker

A DRAMATIC air rescue was carried out on Sunday September 21, when a hiker was evacuated by helicopter after suffering an ankle injury on the rugged coastal path leading to the historic castle at Cala Granadella in Javea.

The alarm was raised at 12.15pm and by 2.26pm the operation had been successfully completed. Given the steep and rocky terrain, which makes land access particularly complicated, the Provincial Fire Brigade Consortium (CPBA) activated its Mountain Rescue Group alongside the Alfa-1 helicopter.

by pine-clad hills and turquoise waters, the bay is a magnet for hikers, snorkellers and kayakers alike. The narrow trail to the remains of the Granadella Castle, perched on a cliff edge, offers stunning views of the Mediterranean but can also prove treacherous, particularly for those unprepared for the demanding terrain.

Rescue operations in this area are not uncommon. Over the summer months, firefighters and emergency crews have been called repeatedly to assist hikers and swimmers in distress.

Cala Granadella, situated on the southern tip of Javea, is considered one of the most beautiful coves on the Costa Blanca. Surrounded

Firefighters managed to reach the injured walker, stabilise him and winch him safely aboard the aircraft before transferring him to a nearby hospital.

In August, a similar helicopter rescue was carried out when another walker suffered heat exhaustion on the same route.

Cameras boost security

CALPE has launched a project to install CCTV cameras with the aim of improving safety across the municipality and monitoring traffic flow.

In recent days, a network of cameras has been set up along the town’s main roads, including Avenida Diputación, Avenida Ejércitos Españoles and Avenida Generalitat Valenciana, as well as on several secondary streets.

This marks the first stage of an ambitious traffic monitoring and control plan, which began with the installation of cameras at the town’s main entry points. The Departments of Citizen Security and IT plan to move forward with a second phase that will expand the network to other areas of the municipality.

The goal is to strengthen security in Calpe, oversee traffic flow and provide

data management tools to analyse the volume of vehicles and pedestrians.

The first phase has cost €100,000, with the contract awarded to Elecnor, a company with extensive experience in this field. All footage is sent directly to the traffic control centre located within the Local Police headquarters, where officers are responsible

for monitoring the cameras. A further €100,000 has already been allocated for the second phase of the project.

Councillor for Citizen Security, Guillermo Sendra, highlighted: “With this CCTV system, Calpe makes significant progress in both traffic management and public safety.”

Firefighters managed to reach the injured walker.

Credit: Bomberos Alicante

The goal is to strengthen security in Calpe.

Credit: Calpe Council

Yoga on the beach

WHEN London-born

Chrystal Falzon first visited Spain as a teenager, she never thought it would one day become home. Now 30 and settled in Javea, she has created a life surrounded by the landscapes she loves most.

“I began spending time in Spain when I was 25, after studying and working in a corporate role in London,” she told Euro Weekly News. “I felt at a crossroads and needed to decide my next steps.”

Her connection to Valen-

cia made the choice easier.

“I had visited several times during my teens and early 20s, and I always loved it. So I returned for a couple of months to figure things out, and realised Spain was where I wanted to stay permanently.”

Thanks to her Irish grandparents, she was able to make the move legally. After spending extended periods in Valencia, she relocated to Javea in 2024.

“As someone who loves the outdoors, the beaches and hiking routes here are per-

fect,” she said.

Yoga has been central to her journey. Having trained in Bali in 2019, Chrystal has since taught in England, Australia and now Spain. In the Marina Alta she runs both group and private sessions, holding classes outdoors by the sea as well as at Bodhi - Health & Studio.

“Yoga has always given me a sense of connection,” she added. “Wherever I live, it helps me meet new people and build community.”

Record charity funds

EN PRIMERA LINEA Charity Run, held on Sunday September 21 in Benidorm, raised a record €28,000 for Aspanion, the association supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer in the Valencian Community.

The event, which forms part of European Mobility Week (EMW) activities in Benidorm, attracted hundreds of participants across several categories, including 5km and 10km runs, as well as Nordic walking and a 5km walkers’ route. Children’s races were also held, creating a lively morning of sport, charity and community for all ages.

Runners followed a scenic route from the town hall plaza to Levante Beach, with the 10K race extending to Poniente before returning to the finish line.

In the 5K men’s race, Vicente Solbes finished first in 17:01, followed by Adrián García (17:48) and Alexander Mendoza (18:20). The women’s 5K winner was Ángela Llorca Delaitte in 20:13, with Maite Messiaen second (23:46) and Silvia Becerra third (24:45).

In the 10K, Juanan Fernández crossed the line first in 35:24, ahead of Ximo Santoja (35:34) and Rubén Caballero (36:02). Nicole Kronsbein took the women’s 10K title in 41:00, followed by Verónica Cano (43:33) and Sonia Tirado (44:05).

The morning combined sporting competition with fundraising, as participants and spectators alike contributed to the record-breaking total for a cause close to the community’s heart.

Thanks to her Irish grandparents, Chrystal was able to make the move legally.

Credit: Chrystal Falzon

Children’s races were also held, creating a lively morning of sport.

Bringing the story to life

Credit: Frame from the film

ALEJANDRO AMENÁBAR’S latest lm, El cautivo, premiered in cinemas on Thursday September 12. The production is based on a chapter in the life of writer Miguel de Cervantes, who in 1575 was captured by corsairs and taken to Algiers, from where he repeatedly attempted to escape and return to Spain.

The director seeks to portray the moments that shaped Cervantes’ talent as a storyteller, a skill that later ourished in his masterpiece Don Quixote de la Mancha, as a way of ‘freeing himself’ from captivity.

Several locations in Alicante Province were chosen to bring the story to life. Filming began in April 2024 at Santa Pola’s

fortress castle and continued at Alicante’s Castillo de Santa Bárbara, the Ciudad de la Luz lm studios, as well as in the palace of Anna (València), Buñol Castle, Bocairent and Seville, where production wrapped up in mid-June last year.

Among the settings used was a striking landscape in Marina Alta. In May 2024, Benitachell’s Cova dels Arcs and Moraig cove were transformed into a lm set, requiring the area to be closed to the public for two days while the technical and human infrastructure was put in place.

The trailer for El cautivo shows a short glimpse of the Benitachell location, which Amenábar used to recreate a natural setting reminiscent of 16th-century Algiers.

Benitachell’s Cova dels Arcs and Moraig cove were transformed into a film set.

How to Identify the Last Valid Will of a Deceased Person in Spain

WHEN someone passes away, one of the essential steps for heirs and family members is to verify whether the deceased left a Will and before which Notary Public the last valid will was executed. In Spain, this information is managed through the Registry of Wills. Established by Royal Decree in 1885 and operational since 1886, this Registry allows the location of wills executed in Spain before a notary. In certain cases, it also includes wills executed abroad, provided they have been duly registered in this Registry.

Spain’s Registry of Wills.

The Certificate of Last Will, issued by the Registry of Wills, provides very specific information. In particular:

- Whether the deceased

executed a will or not.

- If so, the date it was executed and before which Notary Public it was granted.

Additionally, it contains a complete history of all Wills executed by that person, indicating the dates and the locations where each one of them was signed. Only the last will executed is legally valid. It is important to note that this certificate does not detail the content of the wills. Due to Data Protection Regulations, access to the Will’s content is restricted exclusively to heirs or legatees. To review the contents of the Will, these individuals must apply directly to the corresponding Notary Public, where the original document is held.

Documentation required to request the Certificate of

Last Valid Will

In Spain, any person may request this certificate. To do so, it is sufficient to provide a copy of the death certificate and a series of details about the deceased: parents’ names, date and place of birth, marital status, etc.

The Certificate of Last Wills can only be requested once 15 working days have passed since the death. Unlike in other countries, where access may be more complex - for instance, in Austria, where there are separate registers for Notaries and Lawyers, and access is not public - in Spain the procedure is relatively straightforward.

What happens when the deceased granted multiple Wills?

A problematic situation ari-

ses when multiple wills exist in different countries. To determine which one prevails, it is necessary to check for express revocations. To verify whether one Will applies only in Spain while another may extend worldwide.

And to identify any contradictions in the provisions. Sometimes, the wording of the wills can be unclear, raising doubts about the interpretation of certain clauses. Being aware of and addressing these situations in advance allows testators to ensure that their intentions are clear.

This helps prevent conflicts among heirs, disputes, or significant delays in the succession process.

Conclusion At White Baos Lawyers, as

experts in succession law, private international law, and contentious inheritances, we understand that proper planning is essential. Having a clear will - or several, if dealing with different countries - can help prevent conflicts among heirs, delays, and higher costs in the future. If you need assistance with processing an inheritance, locating the last valid will, or drafting your will, our legal team is at your disposal. Do not hesitate to contact us.

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

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

Fifteen days hitchhiking

AT just 21, Yuri Fernández from Moncada (Valencia) has embarked on a remarkable adventure rarely seen among young people on the northern Costa Blanca: a 15-day hitchhiking trip across Europe.

Living in Denia for the past six years, he balances his job as an acrobatics instructor in Javea with his love for sport and personal challenges.

“I’m always thinking about what the next adventure will be,” he told Euro Weekly News.

The journey began spontaneously after finishing a summer camp, leaving him with nearly a month of free time. Armed with a light rucksack, a summer sleeping bag, and around €200, he aimed to travel as far from Spain as possible in just 15 days.

His route has already taken him to northern Germany near Lübeck, with Denmark next on the horizon.

Along the way, he has met travellers from across Europe, driven a Romanian’s car from France to Germany, and even slept in a hammock by the river in Frankfurt, sometimes facing minor safety concerns.

Technology has been essential, with Google Maps, portable solar panels, and power banks keeping him connected. Despite occasional worries from family, Yuri appreciates the kindness of strangers who have helped him along the way. For him, the trip is not just about distance, but about meeting people, sharing experiences, and embracing surprises.

€1,700 for local firefighters

ON Saturday September 20, Javea Masonic Lodge No. 40 hosted a dazzling Ladies’ Night at Salones Canor in Teulada, raising more than €1,700 for local charities, including the Balcón al Mar Voluntarios Firefighters.

The evening began with a sparkling cava reception in the garden, accompanied by live music from local favourite Becky BB. Guests later enjoyed a four-course banquet, fine wine, and more music, creating a lively, celebratory mood.

Lodge Master Alex Wilkins and his wife Jean were warmly welcomed, with toasts to the King and to the Ladies, followed by dancing into the night with DJ Mick Dennison.

A highlight of the evening was the charity raffle, generously supported by attendees. The funds raised will support the vital work of the Bal-

cón al Mar volunteer firefighters, who help safeguard the Javea area.

Alex Wilkins said, “I’m proud our Lodge can support the incredible efforts of these volunteers during my year as Master.” To learn more about Freemasonry in the Province of Valencia or becoming a Mason, visit www. glpvalencia.com or contact sec@glpvalencia.com.

Hosts Alex Wilkins and his wife, Mrs Jean Wilkins.

His journey has already taken him to northern Germany.

Luxury locomotive

THE Al Andalus, one of the most luxurious trains in the world, will be embarking on a new journey through Spain in spring of 2026 to celebrate its 40th anniversary. The train, which is known as the most glamorous in Spain, will be travelling between Sevilla and Madrid, stopping in charismatic towns including Cordoba, Cadiz, Merida, and Toledo, and exploring incredible places including UNESCO World Heritage sites and Roman ruins.

The journey will take passengers on this immersive trip over the course of se-

ven breathtaking days and six nights, and traverses an optimised route through the Iberian landscape, all while enjoying the luxuries

que-Cathedral and the history of the city. Later, Cadiz, oft-considered the oldest city in the Western world, will be explored, and a dinner in a local spot will be included.

Smaller villages will also get their time in the spotlight on this magical journey: Jerez, Merida, Campo de Criptana, and Alcazar de San Juan will all be a subject of intrigue on the trip.

onboard the glittering locomotive. Kicking o in Sevilla, the trip will begin with a tour of the city. A welcome toast and a delicious dinner will follow as the train heads toward Cordoba.

Each night, onboard festivities will take place, with live music performances, parties in the train’s pub, dancing in the ballroom car, and cocktails in the lounge.

The following day will see the sights of Cordoba, including walking tours that highlight the town’s Mos-

Finally, the last two days will see explorations of Toledo, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, and much more, before nally reaching its destination in Madrid.

Decked out with elegant vintage furniture, shiny wooden tables, comfortable sleeper cars, and silk and velvet sofas, the Al Andalus train is like something straight out of an old movie. The train cars, dating back to the 1930s, are modelled after the British royal family train and are a vision of luxury, elegance, and comfort.

Modernisation for airports

PRIME MINISTER Pedro Sánchez has announced a landmark €13 billion investment programme to modernise Spain’s airports between 2027 and 2031, described as the largest in decades. Managed by partly state-owned operator Aena, the initiative aims to expand capacity, enhance passenger services, and ensure Spain remains a leading global

aviation hub.

Major hubs will receive the bulk of funding. Barcelona-El Prat is set for €3.2 billion, covering runway extension, a new satellite terminal, and major refurbishments. Madrid-Barajas will see €2.4 billion, while Alicante-Elche is earmarked for over €1 billion to enlarge terminals and build a new taxiway. In total, around €10 billion will go towards regulated aeronautical activities, with the rest directed at retail and commercial improvements.

Passenger traffic in Spain is forecast to hit 320 million this year, underlining the need for expansion and modernisation. The planned investment is almost four times greater than the current cycle (2022–2026), reflecting growing demand and the need to meet environmental and digital standards.

Funding will come from Aena’s fees on airlines and passengers rather than the state budget. A 6.5 per cent tariff increase is already scheduled for 2026, with further rises expected. Airlines, especially lowcost carriers, have warned this could threaten competitiveness and raise ticket prices.

Sánchez defended the programme, stressing that Spanish airports still offer some of the EU’s most competitive fees.

The luxurious Al Andalus will be travelling between Sevilla and Madrid in 2026.

Photo Credit: Al Andalus Train

The airport programme will be funded through the fees Aena charges airlines and passengers.

Cyberbullying increase

A NEW report by Fundación Mutua Madrileña and Fundación ANAR highlights a sharp rise in school bullying in Spain, with cyberbullying driving the increase.

Based on responses from 8,781 students and 355 teachers, 12.3 per cent of students report bullying incidents (up from 9.4 per cent), with 2.2 per cent involving cyberbullying alone and 3.6 per cent combining in-person and digital bullying, doubling from 1.8 per cent last year.

AI is used in 14.2 per cent of cyberbullying cases, mainly to create fake videos (54.8 per cent) or impersonate identities (32.2 per cent), shared via WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and online games. Physical bullying also increased, with punches and kicks rising 8.7 per cent to 30.9 per cent of cases.

Insults (84.8 per cent) and social isolation (44.8 per cent) are common,

peaking among 11- and 12-year-olds in secondary schools.

Cyberbullying, especially when prolonged, causes severe emotional distress, anxiety, depression, social isolation, low self-esteem, and academic struggles.

AI-generated content worsens psychological trauma by spreading rapidly. Parents should foster open communication, monitor online activity

discreetly, and watch for signs like withdrawal. Collecting evidence, such as screenshots, and reporting to schools or platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram is crucial.

Resources include the Fundación ANAR Helpline (900 202 010) and Chat ANAR at anar.org. The report raises concerns about children’s access to social networks and AI’s role in empowering bullies.

Terraces under attack

IN Madrid’s vibrant streets, where laughter and clinking glasses define daily life, neighbourhood associations - led by the Federacion Regional de Asociaciones Vecinales de Madrid (FRAVM) - are intensifying their battle against the city’s booming outdoor terraces. Frustrated by late-night noise, residents demand tougher regulations to protect their peace.

The flashpoint is a new bylaw draft, approved by the city council on July 31, which critics decry as a rehash of flawed policies, ignoring closing times and lacking oversight. Echoing a 2007 anti-smoking law that birthed year-round terraces the FRAVM seeks a revival of ‘summer-only’ setups, lost when environmental reports were sidelined.

Their 43 ‘alegaciones’ (objections) call for seasonal permits, 11pm closures in residential areas (2am elsewhere, only 200 metres from homes), a dedicated

‘terrace police’, and a ‘Terrace Council’ including neighbours, businesses, and disability groups is proposed.

Opposition parties like Mas Madrid filed objections on September 10, pushing terraces for historic sites only.

Hospitality owners warn

of thousands of terrace closures and revenue hits in a €140 billion sector employing one in eight Spaniards, fuelled by 85 million 2024 tourists.

As objections mount, Madrid’s fate of its social heartbeat hangs in the balance.

Victims of cyberbullying on the rise.

Moving to Madrid Vithas Barcelona hospital

BARCELONA is about to welcome a state-of-the-art medical facility that promises to transform healthcare across Catalonia. The new Vithas Barcelona Hospital, located in Esplugues de Llobregat, was officially presented to more than 200 leaders from politics, business and medicine. The centre will open to patients in October 2025, offering cutting-edge technology, personalised care and sustainable design.

With 39,000 square metres, 160 private rooms and 14 operating theatres, the hospital will stand among Spain’s most advanced centres. It marks the 22nd hospital in the Vithas group and the fifth in Catalonia.

Authorities praised the project’s economic and social impact. Catalonia’s Minister of Business and Labour

Miquel Sàmper highlighted its role in creating jobs and boosting public-private collaboration, while local mayor Eduard Sanz underlined how the hospital will integrate into the community. National officials also pointed to Vithas’ innovative role in research, teaching and patient care.

The hospital will operate under Joint Commission International standards, guaranteeing top-level medical quality and safety. Its facilities include 24/7 emergency care with separate circuits for adults and children, and specialised units in oncology, cardiology, neurosciences and maternal-infant health. More than 1,800 professionals will staff the centre once fully operational.

Beyond medicine, the hospital is designed as a healing environment. Patients will benefit from private rooms, digital management via the Vithas One platform, and carbon-neutral operations in line with environmental goals.

BRIGHTON COLLEGE, one of the UK’s most prestigious private schools, is making its first move into mainland Europe, with Madrid set to host the group’s flagship European campus in 2027. In partnership with Intellego Education, the expansion also includes new schools in Rome and Lisbon, but Madrid will open first, offering education for children aged three to 18. The school will deliver the same forward-thinking approach that has earned Brighton College international acclaim, combining top-class teaching, academic excellence and an emphasis on kindness and confidence. Boarding facilities will also be available, making it an attractive choice for both Spanish families and international expats seeking a British curriculum in the heart of Madrid.

The move comes amid growing demand for British-style education across Europe. Each year, nearly half a million UK citizens move abroad, many to Spain, Italy and Portugal,

creating a strong market for high-quality English-speaking schools. At the same time, tax changes in Britain have reduced the number of Spanish and Italian students enrolling in UK schools, prompting families to look for similar opportunities closer to home. Brighton College’s arrival in Madrid appears perfectly timed to meet this shift. Group CEO Richard Cairns highlighted the demand for schools that reflect “the ethos, traditions and ambitions of the very best in Britain,” with Brighton College ranked the UK’s top performer in academic results this year.

Named ‘UK School of the Decade’ by The Sunday Times , Brighton College is known not only for stellar exam performance but also for its distinctive ethos, balancing academic rigour with creativity, sport and personal development. Alumni regularly gain places at Oxford, Cambridge, Yale and Harvard, while excelling in arts and athletics.

Authorities and Vithas executives at the hospital’s presentation in Esplugues de Llobregat.

Brighton College brings its award-winning education style to Madrid.

Travel

Exploring Osuna - History, heritage and Andalucian flavour on the road

OSUNA, located in the province of Sevilla, is a destination that combines history, culture, and outdoor experiences. Its monuments and archaeological sites make it an excellent stop for travellers exploring Andalucia by road. Visiting in a campervan gives flexibility to stay nearby, move between attractions with ease and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic town. Several designated parking areas are available in and around Osuna, with larger spaces suitable for campervans. Facilities vary, so it is advisable to check local listings in advance. Roads leading into the town are generally accessible for larger vehicles, though driving within the old centre can be difficult. Parking on the outskirts and continuing on foot or by local transport is usually the most convenient option.

Heritage and landmarks

Osuna is known for its Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The Collegiate Church of Santa María mes called the ‘Petra of Andalucia’, Food and local products

Black Friday Spain 2025

BLACK Friday 2025 is set to be one of the busiest shopping events in Spain, with millions of consumers preparing for discounts across nearly every sector. The official date falls on Friday, November 28, right after Thanksgiving, and just three days before Cyber Monday on December 1, which will focus heavily on electronics and digital services. Retailers are already gearing up, and shoppers can expect price cuts of up to 70 per cent both online and in stores.

Technology is expected to dominate the spotlight again this year. Major retailers such as MediaMarkt, PC Componentes and Amazon are planning aggressive promotions on smartphones, laptops, TVs and household appliances. Popular brands including Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, LG and Sony are all tipped

to feature prominently. Many stores are also extending the discount period into ‘Black Week’ or even ‘Black Month’, giving shoppers extra time to grab deals.

Fashion will also play a central role, with reductions of 50-70 per cent anticipated from high-street names like Zara and Massimo Dutti, as well as international labels such as Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste and Levi’s. Online platforms like Zalando and Shopify will fuel the rush, while second-hand tech marketplaces such as Back Market promise affordable gadgets at slashed prices. Beyond clothes and electronics, Spanish shoppers can also expect discounts on travel, homeware, restaurants, beauty treatments and digital subscriptions - making the event a key moment for early Christmas shopping.

Stores across Spain prepare for Black Friday 2025 discounts.

Credit : Jeppe Gustafsson, Shutterstock

A New Life in SpainWith the right people by your side

AT Golden Leaves , we’ve supported thousands of individuals and families relocating to Spain - and we understand that moving to a new country is about more than just finding your dream home or learning where the best coffee is served.

For expats over 40, especially those with families or in retirement, peace of mind becomes a top priority - and securing the right private health insurance is one of the most important steps in that journey.

That’s why we work close-

ly with ASSSA , a specialist provider of health insurance for international residents in Spain. With over 90 years of experience and a deep understanding of the expat community, ASSSA offers exceptional cover , designed specifically to meet the needs of people relocating or already living here.

Why choose ASSSA through Golden Leaves?

• Compliant with Spanish visa and residency requirements

• No premium increases due to age - The age you join

is the age you stay

• Lifelong protection - No policy cancellations, even with high usage or existing conditions

• Fast access to private healthcare - No waiting lists, English-speaking medical professionals

• New clients accepted up to age 79 - With lifelong continuation after that

Our team at Golden Leaves doesn’t just point you in the right direction - we walk with you every step of the way From choosing the right policy to managing documents

for your visa application, and even assisting with aftercare and renewals, we offer a truly personal service

You’ll always speak to someone who understands your situation - in your language, with your best interests at heart.

Whether you’re working, re-

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-

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

tired, or relocating with your family, our mission is to make your move to Spain smooth, secure, and stress-free.

So if you’re planning your life under the Spanish sun, get in touch with Golden Leaves today. Let’s make sure your health - and your future - are in safe hands.

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.”

Barry Floyd | CEO

IN a dramatic NATO display amid escalating Russian provocations, British RAF Typhoon jets flew their first air defence mission over Poland on September 19, patrolling 110 kilometres from the Belarusian border. Launched from RAF Coningsby after 19 Russian drones breached Polish airspace on September 10, it prompted the alliance’s second Article 4 consultations in days.

Equipped with advanced sensors and infrared-guided missiles, the Typhoons

RAF planes over Poland

were supported by a Voyager tanker delivering 27.4 tonnes of fuel in two midair refuels - one near the incursion site.

At 25,000 feet, pilots approached within 12 metres of the Voyager circling at 700 kph, guided by a traffic-light system on the 88-foot hose. Crew described it as ‘having a drink’.

Portugal’s IT outage

PORTUGAL’S National Health Service (SNS) faced a major computer system outage leaving hospitals and health centres unable to access patient records or issue prescriptions.

According to the National Federation of Doctors (FNAM), the failure began on September 17, and was only resolved by lunchtime the next day, after hours of disruption to care.

The outage, first reported by SIC Notícias, caused delays in consultations, surgeries, and prescriptions. FNAM president Joana Bordalo de Sá said the situation was ‘unacceptable’, warning it endangered patient safety.

“We depend entirely on the computer system to access patient clinical information. Everything is there: tests, prescriptions,” she explained to Lusa, advising doctors to request

exemption from liability during the blackout.

Reports of failures came from health units across the north, including Gaia Espinho and Tâmega Sousa health centres, Santo António Hospital, and Porto IPO. Many medical staff were left unable to access essential information to carry out basic duties.

FNAM criticised the government for underinvestment in IT infrastructure, holding Health Minister Ana Paula Martins and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro responsible for the system’s vulnerability.

The Ministry of Health’s Shared Services (SPMS) confirmed the disruption was caused by a software update performed by telecoms operator NOS on the Health Information Network (RIS).

The UK effort joins multinational patrols by Denmark, France, and Germany along NATO’s eastern flank, backed by more than 400 British personnel. Defence Secretary John Healey hailed the pilots: “Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Poland... RAF Typhoons have flown their first mission over Poland,

sending a clear signal: NATO airspace will be defended.” The sortie followed Russian incursions: three MiG-31s violated Estonian airspace for 12 minutes on September 19, two jets breached Poland’s Petrobaltic oil platform zone, and Romania reported violations, stoking confrontation fears.

Porto IPO.

Credit: photosounds, Shutterstock.

COPENHAGEN will face major traffic disruptions from October 1 to 2, as Denmark hosts two high-level European summits.

The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that roads around the city centre, Amager, and Copenhagen Airport will be particularly affected.

On October 1, there will be an EU summit on defence, security, and support for Ukraine, held at Christiansborg Palace with leaders from all 27 EU countries. In

Major traffic disruptions

the evening, King Frederik X and Queen Mary will host a state dinner at Amalienborg Palace for European leaders attending the talks.

On October 2, a wider meeting of the European Political Community (EPC) will take place at Copenhagen’s Bella Centre, involving representatives from around 50

countries, NATO, and EU institutions. The ministry warned that ‘all traffic in Copenhagen will be affected’ during the events. From September 30 to October 2, extensive security measures will be in place, with roadblocks and route changes likely.

Travellers are advised to allow extra time for journeys, especially if heading to

the airport. Bus routes will also be diverted, while metro services are expected to run as normal.

The Ministry stated, “Although efforts are being made to minimise inconvenience for citizens and road users in Copenhagen, there will be significant traffic changes in large parts of the city.”

Copenhagen Police will provide live updates on X, along with information available via trafikinfo.dk.

Nun’s the word

THREE elderly Austrian nuns have captured international attention after leaving a nursing home and returning to their former convent near Salzburg, defying church authorities who had dissolved their religious community earlier this year.

The women, aged 88, 86 and 82, were assisted by supporters, including a locksmith and former pupils of their Goldenstein girls’ school, in re-entering Kloster Goldenstein convent in Elsbethen on September 4. The convent once housed the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood, a congregation that ran the school for more than a century before it closed in 2014.

In early 2024, the Archdiocese of Salzburg and Reichersberg Abbey officially dissolved the community, citing the sisters’ advanced age and need

for care. The remaining nuns were subsequently moved into a retirement facility. Upon returning, the three sisters found the convent without water or electricity. Sympathisers arranged medical checks, supplies, and ongoing support. The women have spoken out against being placed in the nursing home, insisting they wish to live out their days at Goldenstein. The sisters’ return has

been widely described as a symbolic act of defiance, reigniting debate in Austria about autonomy, ageing, and the rights of religious women. Their story has gained further momentum online: the nuns have launched an Instagram account where they post daily updates of convent life, from gardening to attending Mass, attracting over 10,000 followers within days.

The nuns were unhappy about being moved to the retirement home.

FRENCH President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, have filed a defamation lawsuit in a US court against commentator Candace Owens over false claims suggesting Brigitte was born male. The suit, lodged in Delaware Superior Court in July 2025, accuses

She’s a Lady

Owens of spreading a baseless conspiracy theory through podcasts and social media, despite it having been widely debunked.

The allegations assert that Brigitte Macron is a transgender woman named Jean-Michel Trogneux, claims which have

caused significant distress to the couple. Their legal team, led by attorney Tom Clare, intends to present scientific evidence, expert testimony, and personal photographs documenting Brigitte’s life, including her pregnancies and family history, to refute the rumours. While emotionally difficult, the Macrons argue this step is necessary to restore truth and protect Brigitte’s honour.

Owens maintains that her comments fall under First Amendment protections and has filed a motion to dismiss, challenging jurisdiction and whether the Macrons can prove she acted with ‘actual malice’. The court will need to determine these issues as the case advances.

This follows earlier legal action in France, where Brigitte and her brother initially won a defamation

case against bloggers but later saw the ruling overturned on appeal on free speech grounds.

That reversal prompted the Macrons to pursue accountability in the US, where they hope for a different outcome.

The lawsuit seeks dama-

ges and aims to underline the dangers of disinformation.

It highlights the struggle public figures face in countering false narratives, balancing reputational protection with free speech, in an era of rapidly amplified online conspiracy theories.

Allegations suggest that Brigitte Macron is a transgender woman named Jean-Michel Trogneux.

Spain’s rental clampdown

Locals and expats voice their views

SPAIN’S battle over holiday rentals has erupted into one of the country’s fiercest political and social debates. Sweeping national reforms introduced in July 2025 require every short-term rental to register for a National Rental Authorisation (NRA) code, with platforms such as Airbnb and Booking. com obliged to remove unlicensed listings. Residents’ associations can now vote to block tourist lets in their buildings, and local governments from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca have imposed freezes or outright bans.

The backdrop is a housing crisis in which rents have soared, protests have drawn tens of thousands to the streets, and more than 65,000 properties have already been delisted nationwide. Critics say tourism has fuelled ‘overtourism’ and neighbourhood decline, while others argue the real culprit is the lack of affordable new housing.

In Andalucia, the government’s decision to revoke 53,000 tourist rental licences has stirred particular anger. AVVAPRO, the association representing temporary rental owners, calls the move “populist” and says it “threatens Andalucia’s economy,” warning that the national decree defies regional autonomy and undermines businesses that have “operated legally for years.” Many property owners, including British second-home owners, fear being branded illegal despite holding valid regional permits. Further north in the Valencian Community, enforcement has been equally tough. The Housing Ministry has removed 7,499 illegal tourist flats, including 538 in Denia alone. “They should publish the addresses of those properties so that neighbours know who those uncivil landlords are,” said Daniel, a Denia resident frustrated by rising rents. Gabriela, who runs a local hotel, welcomed the crackdown, declaring, “When a section of society proves incapable of imposing ethical limits on itself, the state must act

with the force of a hammer.” Paul, a long-term Torrevieja resident, said:

“Everything is being replaced to suit tourists… rents are through the roof, parking is difficult, prices rise, and crime has increased. It helps tourist spending, but it’s harder to live here.”

On the island of Mallorca, authorities have struck agreements with Airbnb to ensure every host provides a valid registration number, hoping to curb what one minister described as profiteering: “Enough with protecting those who make a business out of the right to housing in our country,” said Spain’s Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy.

Protests there have at times turned hostile, with locals dousing visitors with water. Some business owners also blame shortterm lets for changing tourist habits; restaurant leader Juanmi Ferrer complained, “We’ve reached the point where in Port de Soller there are restaurants that are giving their staff vacations in the middle of July because of the so-called sandwich tourists.”

In Malaga, the tension is palpable. The

Unlicensed listings being removed.

city has imposed a three-year moratorium on new tourist licences and revoked more than 10,000 existing ones after long-term rents ‘doubled in around eight years’, according to resident Lucinda de la Cereza. “No owner will rent long-term over short-term. Too many are scared of squatters,” added another resident. Yet not everyone blames tourism. Holiday-rental entrepreneur Juan Cubo Guerrero calls the backlash ‘demonisation’ and insists ‘Malaga is not Venice’, arguing that short-term lets have decentralised tourism and revitalised neglected villages

Neighbouring Axarquia has taken a gentler stance. Only about 5 per cent of homes in Torrox are listed as tourist rentals and most residents are relaxed for now. Still,

pressures are evident. “My rent has gone up 30 per cent in the last three years,” said Antonio, a waiter in Torre del Mar, who believes “it’s not only Airbnb, but it’s part of the story.” Locals note that visiting families spend freely in neighbourhood markets and restaurants, keeping small businesses alive. Further east in Almeria, where demand from British expatriates is strong, the impact is mixed. Caroline Webb of Almerimar sees both sides: “Airbnbs can attract more visitors… It also draws people who prefer ‘living like a local’,” she said, while acknowledging that in bigger towns “Airbnb makes housing more expensive in busy tourist cities.” Smaller communities, she added, have so far escaped the steep price rises seen elsewhere. Murcia’s quieter Costa Calida presents another perspective. There, holiday rentals are largely confined to purpose-built resorts, and illegal listings are rare. Paul, a local estate agent, warned that too heavy-handed a ban would hurt livelihoods: “Some resorts were set up with holiday rentals in mind; their daily spend is much higher than that of locals. If demand drops, the resort shops, bars, and restaurants could close.” Many residents favour sensible regulation but oppose outright prohibition, seeing tourism as vital to jobs and services.

Across Spain the dilemma is the same: how to protect housing for residents without undermining an industry worth more than €200 billion a year. From the water-throwing protesters of Mallorca to the cautious shopkeepers of Axarquia and the hoteliers of Denia, reactions differ sharply. What unites them is a recognition that the free-for-all of unregulated tourist rentals is ending.

Whether the new laws can tame both soaring rents and public anger without crippling local economies remains the country’s great unanswered question.

Your

Should Israel be able to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest? VOICE

THE debate around Israel’s participation in Eurovision has reignited after Spain’s broadcaster RTVE announced it would boycott the contest if Israel were allowed to compete. The move, described as ‘historic’, marks the first time a major European country has openly refused participation on political grounds, raising questions about Eurovision’s founding principles of unity and cultural exchange. The decision follows months of controversy, with campaigners arguing that allowing Israel to perform would go against the spirit of Eurovision, while others believe the contest should remain a cultural event free from international disputes. With divisions widening, the spotlight is now firmly on whether Israel has a place in the competition. We asked our readers for their thoughts.

Public reaction has been divided. Some respondents were firmly against Israel’s inclusion, often linking the issue to both politics and geography. Amanda Settle said, “No. Absolutely not. Thankfully many countries have now said they will not attend if Israel do.” Similarly, Fran Picapinos insisted, “Never in any European contest (song, football...).” Others echoed the geographical argument: Mike Tullett stated, “No, they’re not in Europe,” while Tony Mundy and John Trueman added, “No. Neither should Australia, but for more obvious reasons!” Several commenters, such as Sally Ann Etheridge, Yvon-

ne Doniford, Peter Walker and Michele Fowler simply said “No.”

A number of comments compared Israel’s situation to other nations barred from contests. Mikael Andersson said: “No Russia, no Israel.” Another respondent, Alastair Hamilton, went further, suggesting Israel should not be permitted in other international competitions either, including the Olympic Games.

Despite the strong opposition, some voices defended Israel’s right to take part.

Christine Belmonte argued, “Yes, it should be non-political,” while Sandra Van Loan highlighted the contest’s artistic roots, saying, “Yes. It’s a singing contest.” Colin Wheeler agreed, commenting, “It’s about singing not politics!” Mari Fairley added, “Yes. And so should Russia,” suggesting that excluding countries undermines the spirit of inclusivity.

The responses show that a large majority believe Israel should not compete in Eurovision, citing political tensions, fairness, and geography as reasons. However, a smaller group stressed that Eurovision should not be burdened with international disputes and should remain focused on music and performance. A handful also questioned Israel’s eligibility on the grounds that it is not a European nation. The debate reflects the tension between Eurovision’s founding ethos of unity through music and the growing reality of politics shaping the contest’s future.

The Eurovision Song Contest - a celebration of music now caught in a storm of political debate.

Credit: Review News / Shutterstock

FINANCE

Instant payments

BBVA has expanded its instant payments service to include inbound cross-border transfers from outside the eurozone. The move allows financial institutions worldwide to send money to Spain within seconds, 24/7 and year-round, via Iberpay’s new One-Leg Out Instant Credit Transfer (OCT Inst) rail.

0% tariff

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has paused efforts for a zero per cent US tariff on British steel, instead favouring a ‘permanent’ 25 per cent rate. Officials argue this provides certainty and a competitive edge over countries facing 50 per cent tariffs.

Bally’s Interactive

PUSH GAMING has strengthened its Spanish market presence by launching its slot portfolio with Bally’s Interactive. Titles like ‘Jammin’ Jars’ and ‘Wild Swarm’ are now live, supporting the studio’s European growth strategy after Spain’s iGaming market hit €1.45 billion GGR in 2024.

€15m raised

HIGHLIGHT THERAPEUTICS, a cancer treatment startup based in Valencia, has raised €15 million, led by Buenavista Equity Partners, to advance its immunotherapy targeting skin tumours. Currently in Phase 2b trials for basal cell carcinoma, the funding will accelerate clinical development.

National Express

NATIONAL EXPRESS has named Javier Martinez Prieto as managing director ahead of its 2026 integration with Spanish counterpart Alsa. With more than 30 years’ experience at Alsa, Prieto will drive strategic growth as the two operators form a pan-European coach powerhouse.

€13.6bn plan for 2030

SPAIN has announced a €13.59 billion investment plan to expand its electricity grid by 2030, aiming to meet surging demand from industry, green hydrogen and data centres.

The plan, presented in Madrid on September 13, represents a sharp rise from the €8.2 billion allocated in 2021–2026. It comes as 83.4 per cent of distribution nodes are already saturated, according to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition (Renewables Now).

The package includes €3.6 billion for transmission, €7.7 billion for distribution, and €1.52 billion for EU interconnections.

At least 10 per cent will

fund system security such as voltage monitoring. Third Vice President Sara Aagesen said the extra spending “does not entail increases in consumers’ bills” because costs will be shared among stakeholders (ESS News). The grid will

1,800 UK jobs

THE UK government confirmed over £1.25 billion of investment from US finance giants, creating 1,800 jobs across London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Manchester ahead of a US Presidential State Visit.

Bank of America will launch in Northern Ireland, bringing up to 1,000 jobs in Belfast. Citi is committing £1.1 billion across its UK operations, while BlackRock is expanding in Edinburgh, and S&P Global is investing over £4 million in Manchester to support 200 jobs. PayPal has pledged £150 million for product innovations.

Business Secretary Peter Kyle called the move proof the UK is “the world’s leading investment destination” (Gov.uk). Chancellor Rachel Reeves added, “These in-

connect 27.7 GW of extra capacity, nearly 14 times higher than first forecast. This includes 13.1 GW for green hydrogen, 9 GW for industry, 3.8 GW for data centres, and 1.2 GW for ports.

Spain has also received requests for 150 GW

of solar, 60 GW of wind and 100 GW of storage, far above current climate targets. Energy Secretary Joan Groizard called the plan “a significant modernisation of our electrical system.”

Public consultation runs until October 6.

vestments will create thousands of high-skilled jobs from Belfast to Edinburgh.”

Ministers hailed the wave of deals as a vote of confidence in Britain’s financial services, though some may question if the benefits will reach beyond the cities.

12th Solar Forum Digi and Rothschild

URBAN OUTFITTERS is expanding in Spain with a new 1,000 m2 flagship store in Valencia’s Town Hall Square, its fourth in Spain and first in the Valencian Community (FashionUnited).

The site, formerly the Valencia CF store, spans two floors in a prime tourist area set for redevelopment. The move highlights Valencia’s rising status as a fashion hub and comes as Urban Outfitters posts strong results, with a $252 million (€232m) profit in H1 2025.

THE Bank of England is proposing limits on stablecoin ownership of £10,000-£20,000 for individuals and £10 million for businesses, far stricter than rules in the US or EU. Critics warn the plan would damage UK competitiveness. Tom Duff Gordon of Coinbase said: “Imposing caps on stablecoins is bad for UK savers, bad for the City, and bad for sterling.” The BoE insists caps could be “transitional” as the market grows.

TELECOMS group Digi has begun preparations with Rothschild for the planned IPO of its Spanish subsidiary, valued at €2.5 billion (The Corner).

The Romanian operator, which already covers 12 million households in Spain, aims to expand to 20 million within three years. To fund this growth, Digi intends to float a minority stake on the stock market, with the IPO expected in 2026.

The company has grown rapidly in recent years, challenging established players in Spain’s telecoms sector with aggressive pricing and nationwide fibre expansion.

THE 12th Solar Forum, Spain’s leading photovoltaic event, will take place on October 15–16 at Madrid’s Marriott Auditorium Hotel (UNEF). Organised by the Spanish Photovoltaic Union (UNEF), the forum will feature 17 round tables and keynote speeches on the future of photovoltaics, self-consumption, storage, and reindustrialisation. Confirmed speakers include Alberto Nadal, Deputy Secretary for the Economy of the Partido Popular, who will present the opposition’s energy model. Last year, more than 1,200 professionals from a dozen countries attended, consolidating the forum’s reputation as a key platform for Spain’s energy transition.

THE UK Space Agency has awarded £1.5 million to six projects using satellite technology and AI to tackle climate change, decarbonise transport and improve accessibility (Gov.uk).

Winners include Ether Capital, developing a carbon risk dashboard for shipping, Furrer+Frey, creating satellite-powered rail electrification tools, and MakeSense Technology, mapping walking routes for visually impaired people.

Other projects from Howden, Rebalance Earth, and Foresight Group focus on biodiversity, reforestation and green finance.

TURESPAÑA showcased Spain’s padel tourism potential at the ‘Padel Insights’ event on September 12 at Roland Garros, during the Alpine Paris Major Premier Padel tournament (FTN News). More than 50 tourism and media professionals attended, with input from Turismo Andaluz and Turisme de Catalunya. Officials stressed padel’s role in reducing seasonality and attracting French visitors.

The FFT’s Gilles Moretton noted France now counts 150,000 padel players, up 20 per cent year-on-year, underlining the sport’s rapid growth.

Credit: Anetlanda, Shutterstock.

Electricity transmission pylons in Spain.

Credit: Sven Hansche, Shutterstock.

London skyline.

BUSINESS

EXTRA

Acquiring

Claire’s

MODELLA CAPITAL, the investor behind WH Smith’s high street buyout, is in pole position to purchase Claire’s UK chain after agreeing an outline deal with US owner Ames Watson. Claire’s, with 278 UK stores and 2,100 staff, collapsed into insolvency last month.

Only taxis

BARCELONA will ban ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, and Bolt under a new Catalan transport law. Around 600 VTC licences will be phased out, leaving taxis as the city’s primary service. The measure takes full effect by late 2026.

€700m deal cancelled

SPAIN has cancelled a €700 million contract for Israeli-made rocket launchers, the second major arms deal with Israel scrapped in a month, in a move Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez says is part of efforts to halt Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

According to Le Monde, the cancellation was formalised on Spain’s official public contracts platform on September 9, involving 12 SILAM rocket launcher systems based on the PULS platform by Israeli firm Elbit Systems. The deal, signed in October 2023, included co-production with Spani-

SPAIN’S Ministry of Industry and Tourism has awarded Slovakian battery maker InoBat €54 million, plus a €456,000 loan, to build a gigafactory in Valladolid (Gob. es).

The project involves a €712 million investment, expected to create 260 direct jobs and 500 indirect roles. Production is due to reach 32 GWh by 2027, with full capacity planned by 2029 (Battery News).

InoBat factory

Funding comes through the third round of PERTE VEC, which has so far channelled €2.5 billion to 300 companies, including PowerCo, Stellantis and Renault. The government says the programme underlines its commitment to green reindustrialisation and quality job creation.

sh firms Escribano and Expal, the latter now owned by German defence giant Rheinmetall.

Haaretz reported that Spain’s Ministry of Defence terminated the deal with Elbit Systems for SILAM rocket artillery, which would have included 12 mobile launch platforms, radar systems, drones, armoured support, and evacuation vehicles. A separate contract worth €287 million for 168 anti-tank missile launchers, licensed from Israeli firm Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, has also been cancelled, according to Le Monde. This followed an earlier cancellation of a €237 million Spike missile contract. Sánchez recently pledged to enshrine in law a ban on all arms trade with Israel, telling reporters his government would ‘consolidate in law’ the suspension of military equipment sales and purchases. He also called for Israel’s exclusion from international sport.

Destination Britain

AT Destination Britain - the Americas in Mexico, 53 UK suppliers met nearly 50 buyers from the US, Canada and Brazil (Travel Market Report).

Visit Britain CEO Patricia Yates said US visitors are crucial, forecasting 5.5m arrivals in 2025 spending £7.2bn, while stressing the need to expand tourism beyond London.

Sandwich tourism

RISING restaurant costs are fuelling ‘sandwich tourism’ in Spain, with visitors in Barcelona, Madrid, and Mallorca increasingly buying supermarket food instead of dining out (Travel and Tour World).

Supermarkets like Mercadona and Carrefour now serve as go-to stops for affordable ready-to-eat snacks.

PM Pedro Sanchez.

Credit: Gil Corzo, Shutterstock.

Lavish indulgence

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

CERTAINLY takes a bit of believing, but I have just received a copy of a restaurant bill which shows the service to one group of 28 clients came to €63,000.

Fifteen bottles of Bollinger Champagne alone came to a small fortune. Makes ya think dunnit?

My order of ham sarnies and small caña is positively threadbare by comparison. Just how can some members of our society afford such lavish indulgence.

Ah well. Room for one more?

Meanwhile back in the real world, after the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk the subject of free speech once again raises its world-weary head.

With my time in Saudi Arabia I of course experienced the almost traumatic days of no speech freedom or Christian worship whatsoever.

I remember a small group of people which included two or three

colleagues deciding to hold a small prayer meeting in a classroom of the American school set up to educate the children of expats working in the Kingdom.

This dozen or so would meet on a Sunday morning and hold a short service which included prayer and a couple of hymns. It lasted about three weeks.

A Saudi employed by the school reported the group to the authorities, resulting in a heavy police raid which brought about the arrest of the small number of parishioners who were then bundled off to the primitive cells of the town and subsequently locked up.

It took some days and no small negotiating by the embassy authorities to bring about their release, with two of the members actually being deported.

What a world of utter disparity we find ourselves existing in. Just a mention here about the podcast I do on a Friday. It’s with my good friend Vince Tracey.

We go out at 11pm why don’t you string along? who knows, you may

just enjoy it. Thought I’d just finish off this week on a slightly higher note. Ta rah! I recently heard a story about the late great actor Yul Brynner. Apparently during a run of The King and I at the London palladium an elderly lady turned up every night at the stage door with a small bunch of flowers for the great man.

Seemingly, she was completely ignored on every occasion. On the last night, as he turned away, she struck him over the head with the bouquet of flowers.

A prime example of the fan hitting the …..! Thanks so much for all your mail and for those of you who put out searches for my TOTP appearances. Unfortunately, they still remain elusive. According to one gentleman the series was actually leased out to a company in Australia. Anyone have a cobber who may have a few ideas? It really would mean a great deal to the ol’ boy. Thanks for all your help. Keep the faith Love Leapy.

Leapylee2002@gmail,com

Madrid balcony fines

MADRID residents are being warned that everyday balcony habits could now come with a hefty price tag. From watering plants that drip onto the pavement to shaking out rugs or hanging laundry from windows, seemingly harmless routines may soon cost up to €750. While these municipal rules aren’t new, the city council has announced they will now be enforced far more strictly.

Officials argue that small actions can quickly turn into bigger issues, whether by dirtying public spaces or fuelling disputes between neighbours. Under the tightened rules, even a single complaint from a neighbour or a report from a municipal officer could be enough to trigger a fine. Minor breaches, like dripping water or hanging flags, fall under the €750 ceiling, but more serious infractions such as graffiti, street drinking or illegal dumping carry much higher penalties.

To avoid being caught out, residents are urged to use indoor drying racks, avoid letting water run from balconies, and check the specific rules of their building communities, which are often stricter than city ordinances. The council’s message is clear: what may seem like a private habit becomes a public concern once it spills into the street.

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

Laundry on balconies could result in fines.

ADVERTISING FEATURE LUNCH SEMINAR IN JAVEA

Questions about living in Spain?

JOIN us for the Free Lunch event at Javea Golf Club, 11.30am, Wednesday October 8

The team at Free Lunch Spain have supplied essential information about life in Spain to over 3,000 people. They ensure that all the people who have attended get the correct answers to their specific questions.

Enjoy FREE tapas and a drink once all questions are answered.

No catch- just facts, snacks, and answers waiting for you!”

This will be a fantastic

opportunity for everybody to get all the facts about life in Spain.

Everybody who attends will be able to ask the experts in various areas of business about how things work in Spain, which is a refreshing change to the continued confusion that reigns here.

Once again, the highly respected UK and Spanish companies based in Spain are inviting all British, Irish and European nationals, spending time or living in Costa Blanca, to a meeting for their questions regarding life here to be answered.

Some of the topics that will be covered will be as follows:-

1. Property Investment Opportunities in the UK

2. Wills and Inheritance Tax

3. Buying or selling property in Spain

4. Non-Resident or Resident Taxes

5. Currency Transfers and Exchange Rates

6. Energy Costs and Solar Solutions

7. Savings and Investments - How to get the best returns for your money.

8. Pensions - If you are dependent on your UK pension come and hear how to protect your way of life here in Spain.

topics and answering all your questions.

Experts from four companies will be providing professional advice on all these

Everybody who attends the event will get all their questions answered. How fantastic is that!!

Once all the questions have been answered then everybody will get a free tapa and a drink at Javea Golf Club. The event begins at 11.30am on Wednesday October 8. To register to attend this unique event you can e-mail freelunchspain@gmail.com with your name address and telephone number or call 685 733 278. Spaces are limited so please register.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Japan Now! Show

THE Espai d’Art Contemporani La Barbera in Villajoyosa is showcasing Japan Now!, a unique journey through contemporary Japanese art, open to visitors until Friday November 14.

Alongside works by Murakami and Nara, visitors will also find pieces by Aya Takano, Chiho Aoshima, Mr, Chinatsu Ban, Mahomi Kunikata and Akane Koide - “young creators linked to Murakami’s Factory, KaiKai Kiki Company, considered one of the most influential platforms in the Japanese art scene,” Mingot added.

The exhibition is open during the usual hours of the Espai d’Art Contemporani La Barbera: Monday to Friday from 10am

Monday to Friday from 10am to 1pm, and Monday to Thursday from 5.30pm to 8pm.

to 1pm, and Monday to Thursday from 5.30pm to 8pm.

Japan’s rapid economic growth in recent decades and the global impact of its cultural industries - technology, design, cinema, animation, manga and video games - have shaped a context where high and low culture merge. This

has placed Japanese aesthetics at the heart of mass culture, particularly in the youth market.

Antonella Montinaro, director of Contemporary Art Exhibitions at GACMA and curator, noted that the collective show “features some of the most promising talents of the Japanese scene.”

Ausiàs, a dream turned into reality

AUSIÀS Restaurant is the realisation of a dream - a heartfelt tribute to Ausiàs March and the personal project of Felicia Guerra and Ausiàs Signes.

The restaurant’s story is written through its deep connection with the land, the surroundings, the produce, tradition, people, clients, friends and family. Cooking is their way of reaching people, always seeking memorable and exciting flavours that bring fullness and satisfaction to every guest.

Their cuisine is intuitive and natural, free from prejudice, yet always rooted in tradition as a legacy to be preserved, maintained and evolved for the future.

One of the restaurant’s main goals is to highlight exceptional products that are part of everyday life. To achieve this, they work closely with the finest local producers, ensuring that everything born in the kitchen comes directly from

the product itself.

The desserts carry the hallmark of the Madrid Fusión Pastry Revelation Award 2022, a distinction that continues to inspire every sweet creation. Lightness, movement and naturalness define both the desserts and savoury dishes.

Carrer de la Cova Santa, 2 03750 Pedreguer / 650 443 223

A personal project of Felicia Guerra and Ausiàs Signes.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Seriously Collins: A Night of Phil Collins Magic at Benidorm Palace

THE legendary sound of Phil Collins and Genesis will echo through the glittering halls of Benidorm Palace this autumn, as the internationally acclaimed tribute show Seriously Collins takes the stage on Sunday, October 12, at 8.30pm.

This is not your average cover performance - Seriously Collins has built a reputation across Europe for delivering a pitch-perfect recreation of the hits that defined an era. From the haunting drumbeat of ‘In the Air Tonight’ to the infectious energy of ‘Sussudio’ and the anthemic power of ‘Invisible Touch’, every number is performed with heart, authenticity, and showmanship.

More than nostalgia

Audiences can expect more than just faithful renditions. The band captures the atmosphere of Collins’ live shows, blending emotional ballads with upbeat crowd-pleasers that gua-

Book Your Seats

rantee goosebumps one moment and dancing in the aisles the next. For lifelong fans, it’s a trip down memory lane; for new generations, it’s an introduction to one of music’s greatest storytellers.

The perfect venue

There’s no better setting for such a spectacle than Benidorm Palace, the Costa Blanca’s iconic venue known for its dazzling productions, state-ofthe-art sound, and glamorous cabaret-style seating.

With decades of hosting world-class entertainment, the Palace offers the perfect blend of comfort and atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.

Event details

• Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025

• Time: 20.30

• Venue: Benidorm Palace, Av. Dr Severo Ochoa, 13, 03503 Benidorm, Alicante

• Tickets: €35-45

Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this one-night-only celebration of Phil Collins and Genesis. To reserve your place: +34 965 851 660 / +34 965 851 661 info@benidorm-palace.com • www.benidormpalace.com

Piano festival

A COSTA BLANCA non-profit music association, Ars Alta Cultural, is bringing world-class piano music to Denia this autumn. Founded three years ago, the organisation runs two main projects: the Gonzalo Soriano International Piano Competition in Alicante each April and an International Piano Festival in Denia, which will feature five concerts between October and December.

Supported by the Rotary Club and Denia’s town hall, the festival will be partly financed by the town hall for the first time this year. All concerts will take place at the Teatro Auditori in Denia, with tickets priced at €20 or €80 for a season pass to all five performances. Tickets are available online at www.notikumi.com

or on the door. Full details can be found on www.arsaltacultural.com.

The festival opens on Thursday October 2 with a four-hands recital by Nicolas Bringuier, a semi-finalist at the Chopin Competition in Warsaw, and Olga Monakh from Germany. Their programme, Along the Danube, includes Mozart’s Sonata in D major KV381, Schubert’s Fantasy in F minor D940, Liszt’s Second Hungarian Rhapsody, Brahms’s Hungarian Dances, Dvorak’s Slavonic Dances and Smetana’s symphonic poem The Moldau.

The second concert, on Thursday October 30, will feature Portuguese pianist Vasco Dantas in a recital titled From

Bach to Queen.

From Bach to Queen.

Credit: Gorodenkoff / Shutterstock

Altea gears up

ALTEA is preparing to celebrate its Major and Patron Saint festivities. These events, declared of Regional Tourist Interest, will run from September 26 to 30.

“The festival unites the devotional side, represented by the Comisión del Stmo. Cristo del Sagrario, with the associative and collaborative spirit of the ‘filaes’ of the Federació de Moros i Cristians,” explained Joaquim Devesa, councillor for Festivities.

Official festivities kick

off on Friday 26 with the Entrada de la Murta at 18.30 and the Band

Parade and flag ceremony at 20.00, followed by this year’s festival proclamation by Miguel Lledó Gundín. Saturday 27 features the Moorish and Christian parades, with the Embajada Mora and Rendición Cristiana at 11.30 and the Christian parade at 20.00. Sunday 28 focuses on Cristo del Sagrario, including a Solemn Procession at 20.00 and a

grand fireworks display at 00.30.

The festivities continue with parades, Masses, concerts, and family events until Tuesday 30, when the flags are returned to the Cassal Fester, marking the conclusion of the celebrations for nearly 2,000 participants. Post-festival events include musical performances, ‘Correbars’ and sports matches from October 1 to 5.

With this extensive programme catering to all ages, the Comisión de Fiestas del Stmo. Cristo del Sagrario, the Federació de Moros i Cristians, and Altea council invite everyone to join in and wish the community happy festivities.

Official festivities kick off on Friday September 26.

The capital of crafts

DENIA will host the first edition of ArteManía, the International Festival of Art, Creativity and Crafts, from Friday October 3 to Sunday October 5 at Baleària Port.

The new initiative has been launched with the ambition of becoming an annual meeting point for creators from around the world. It will bring together artisans, painters, designers, masters and artists from multiple disciplines to showcase their work and exchange ideas.

of the region’s creativity.

According to the organisers, guests will include artists’ associations from Latvia and Italy, as well as creators from France, Ukraine and other European nations.

Masters from Spanish cities such as Malaga, Cadiz, Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia will also take part. Local artists from Denia, La Marina Alta and the Valencian Community will feature prominently, highlighting the richness

THE Costa Blanca Astronomical Society is over the moon to welcome a very special guest - Professor Mark McCaughrean, a leading light in astronomy, who will be giving a fascinating public talk in Casa de Cultura, El Verger on Friday September 26.

Professor McCaughrean has spent his career gazing deep into the universe from some of the world’s top institutions, including the European Space Agency (ESA) where he served as Senior Advisor for Science & Exploration. He has worked on a galaxy of missions, from the spectacular James Webb Space Telescope to the legendary Rosetta mission, which landed a spacecraft on a comet for the very first time.

Now an adjunct scientist with the prestigious Max Planck Institute in Heidelberg, he has lived, taught, and researched across the UK, the USA, Germany, and The Netherlands, making him one of Eu-

The programme will be broad, offering art and craft exhibitions, creative workshops, seminars and networking opportunities. It is not only aimed at professionals or collectors but also at the general public.

At the covered esplanade of Baleària Port, tents will host children’s and amateur workshops, hat design contests, painting and craft competitions, as well as live music. A food truck area will provide a varied culinary offer.

Star’s secrets

rope’s best-travelled stargazers.

His visit to the Costa Blanca was originally planned last year to coincide with the 10th anniversary of Rosetta’s daring journey to Comet 67P, but a freak

DANA storm grounded the event. This time, the countdown is back on.

The lecture will be in English and open to anyone curious about the wonders of space. Best of all, it’s completely free.

No booking is required, and with plenty of parking nearby, all you need to do is bring your sense of wonder.

A Journey to the land of licorella soil and the history of Cartoixan Monks

IN Priorat, vines cling to shards of black licorella slate, turning struggle into beauty and hardship into some of Spain’s most profound wines. Our Martha’s Vineyard Wine Club journey here has been nothing short of transformative.

We began at Clos Galena, where Formiga de Seda’s silky elegance and a vibrant young white Garnacha set the tone. In the tasting room, Formiga de Vellut, Galena, and Clos Galena showed the soulful power of Garnacha and Carignan, their roots digging deep into the rocky soil. Listening to Merchan and her daughter share their family story made each sip taste like a page of their history.

At Scala Dei, the ancient Cartoixa whispe-

red of centuries past. We tasted monovarietal Garnacha that shimmered with minerality, and blends where Carignan brought structure and depth - wines of limited production, each bottle a true gem.

Culinary stops at Brichs and Brots elevated our senses. At Brots, Chef Pieter’s inventive menu paired perfectly with the nuanced wines, leaving all 14 of us enchanted.

Our visit to Mas Doix crowned the trip: harvesting Carignan under the Montsant peaks, tasting sun-warmed berries, and sharing Valenti Llagostera’s passionate guidance left us forever in love with Priorat.

Thank you supper

U3A Calpe try to include as many venues as possible for their various events and, despite the recent torrential rain, 16 members were at the Delphin for a thank you supper for Group Leaders.

Despite having to be inside because of the weather they were treated to a good supper and lots of chattering went on during the meal. Helen, from the Delphin, was tearing her hair out in the afternoon as she had planned to have the event outside but there were no problems at all inside and they group were most appreciative of their efforts.

The next U3A event is coffee at the Tennis Club on Friday September 26 when the guest speaker is Carol Saunders. Information on www.u3acaple.org

Martha Ardila, Sommelier at Martha’s Vineyard Moraira

FOOD CRITICS by The Silver Spoon Sisters

Big bites, bigger smiles

ARTE – CALPE, ALICANTE

Starter - Nachos

Great Nachos, not soggy and crispy still. The cheese was just enough and there was mince includidad. Yer Sophia, great flavour and loved the mince and not forgetting the pickled jalapenos. A little spice but good spicey.

Main - Arte Hamburger & Penne Allárabbiata

Annabella - the hamburgesa was very filling, it was so big! Thank you for helping me Sophia. I sure didn’t mind you eating my massislice of tomato in the middle of the burger. I would have preferred a more natural bun but it was still nice. The patatas fritas were gorge, crispy and thin and salty. Really nice burger. Muy bien!

Sophia - The dish was really good, the pasta was cooked perfectamente and the flavour of the sauce was really good. Parmesan queso covered it like a wee blanket. Supermente! The portion was really good. I hope all children’s meal sizes are this big here at Arte, as it is super to have a nice big plate of pasta.

Dessert - Batido de fresa y copa de Oreo!

Sophia - OMG!! This dessert was Hugísimo! It was cute and dressed as a Minnie Mouse, ja ja! Vanilla and chocolate ice-cream, tasted like Oreo ice-cream in there too. I loved this dessert and it was so big, thank you for helping me Bella at the end!

feel sick. Loved the nata on the top

Annabella - Best strawberry milkshake ever! It was not too sweet as you know me Sophia I can’t do things crazy sweet but this was blissisimo. The fresa flavour was gorgeous and not making me and the small amount of strawberry syryp in the glass was just enough.

We really enjoyed this tasting and the staff were lovely to us and made us feel special. The comida was super and as niñas they made us feel special. We think if the fragrance smell was not there in the bathroom spilling into the restaurant, Arte would have got a slightly higher score as we loved it so much.

Rusticana

ITALIAN restaurant Rusticana, located in Calpe, is celebrating a major milestone. This year marks the 20th anniversary of its opening, an occasion they are commemorating by reopening with a completely refreshed image and menu. The restaurant’s interior design has been transformed to transport guests straight to Italy, while on the culinary side, Neapolitan-style pizzas and artisan pasta take centre stage.

The restaurant is now owned by four Italo-Argentinians who have been living in Calpe for several years: Gonzalo Mariconde, Marisa De Cesaris, Christian Idda and Yamila De Cesaris. They acquired Rusticana earlier this year and, after a month of renovations and numerous updates, the new Rusticana is a reality.

The main highlight is that it’s the only restaurant in the town

to feature a gas-fired oven fully visible to all guests. Its golden dome can reach up to 400ºC, allowing pizzas to be cooked in just two minutes. “In a location

ting tradition while bringing in important innovations,” explains Gonzalo.

• The new Rusticana Rusticana is located on one of the busiest streets in the Costa Blanca town - Pintor Sorolla, 5 - just a few minutes from the beach. Its image has undergone a complete transformation, both in terms of branding and design.

sh. While they continue to serve home-made, artisanal pizzas and pasta, the preparation methods have evolved. The pizzas are now made using natural flours and undergo a long fermentation process of up to 48 hours, resulting in light, crispy and airy bases.

The interior decoration is inspired by the colours of the Italian flag, which are used throughout the space to evoke a distinctly Italian atmosphere.

dining options, we knew we had to do things differently. Respec-

The menu is extensive and entirely new from start to fini-

In addition, Rusticana features a ‘Pizza of the Month’, an off-menu special that changes regularly and offers diners the chance to try more gourmet-style creations. The restaurant is open to everyone, from Wednesday to Monday, between 6.00pm and midnight. ‘Hacer pueblo’ - being part of the town - is a simple expression with a profound meaning. Because in a place with such a wide range of dining options, doing things with care and intention truly makes a difference.

Smoke signs

Elegant eyes

SKIN is often the first place smoking leaves its mark. Beyond yellow fingers and a lingering smell, smoking can dramatically affect how your skin looks, feels, and ages. If you’ve ever wondered why smokers often appear older than their years, the science provides a clear answer.

mouth and eyes.

Long-term smoking also contributes to a sallow, leathery texture and increases the risk of skin conditions like psoriasis. Even second-hand smoke can affect your skin’s health over time.

The best thing you

itself within weeks of stopping. Support your recovery with a balanced diet, plenty of water, daily SPF, and products containing retinoids or antioxidants like vitamin C to rebuild skin resilience and radiance.

AGEING eyes tell stories of laughter, wisdom and life well lived. But when it comes to make-up, this delicate area may need a few tweaks to enhance rather than hide. Whether you are dealing with fine lines, puffiness or hooded lids, the right techniques can help refresh your look and make eyes appear brighter and more youthful.

eyes.

Lastly, define your brows. A softly arched brow brings balance to the face and frames your eyes beautifully. With a few simple tricks, your eyes can sparkle with confidence at any age.

Nicotine narrows blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrient flow to the skin. This leads to a dull, uneven complexion and slows the body’s natural healing process. Smoking also destroys collagen and elastin—two key proteins that keep skin firm and elastic - leading to sagging, wrinkles, and deeper lines, especially around the

can do is quit. Your skin begins to repair

Start with a lightweight eye cream to hydrate and prep the skin. Avoid heavy concealers that settle into fine lines and instead opt for light-reflecting formulas. Neutral matte eyeshadows work best, as shimmer can accentuate texture. Apply a medium-toned shade slightly above the crease to give the illusion of lifted lids.

Use a soft pencil or eyeshadow as eyeliner, keeping the line thin and close to the lashes. A gentle smudge adds definition without harshness. Curl your lashes and apply a lengthening mascara to open the

Shutterstock

Evgeny Savchenko

Pucker up

SUNSHINE, warm breezes and outdoor living can feel wonderful, but hot temperatures can quickly take a toll on your lips. The skin here is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, making it especially vulnerable to dryness, cracking and sun damage. Without the right care, lips can become sore, flaky and even develop painful blisters.

In the heat, hydration is essential. Drinking plenty of water helps keep lips soft from the inside, while using a moisturising balm with SPF protection shields them from harmful UV rays. Reapplying throughout the day is important, particularly after eating, swimming or sweating.

Neglecting lip care in hot weather can lead to chapping, premature ageing of the skin and increased risk of cold sores or sunburn. In severe cases, repeated sun damage may even contribute to long-term skin concerns.

To keep lips looking and feeling their best, protect them daily, avoid licking them, and gently exfoliate once a week. With consistent care, your smile will stay smooth, healthy and ready for every summer moment.

Noticing the good

TAKING a moment to appreciate what we have can shift the way we experience each day. Gratitude is more than just saying thank you. It is a mindset that helps us focus on what is good in our lives, rather than what is missing. In a world that often pushes us to want more, practising gratitude can bring calm, perspective and a greater sense of happiness.

Studies show that regularly acknowledging the positive can improve mental well-being, strengthen relationships and even support better sleep. One of the simplest ways to practise gratitude is by keeping a journal. Writing down three things you are thankful for each day, no matter how small, can train the mind to notice the good.

Others prefer to reflect at the end of the day or share something positive at the dinner table. Some take a quiet moment each morning to give thanks before the day begins.

Whether written, spoken or silently noted, gratitu-

de becomes more powerful with consistency. Practising it daily helps shift the focus away from stress and towards joy. Over time, this habit can bring a quiet strength that helps us cope better, connect more deeply and appreciate life as it is.

Buzz over slugging

GLOW lovers are buzzing about slugging, a skincare trend that promises intense overnight hydration. The term refers to applying a thick occlusive layer, such as petroleum jelly, over your nighttime skincare products. The aim is to lock in moisture, prevent water loss, and help active ingredients absorb more effectively.

Originally rooted in Korean beauty routines, slugging is particularly beneficial for dry, irritated or compromised skin. It supports the skin barrier, helping it heal and recover from harsh weather, over-exfoliation or dehydration.

Start with your usual evening rou-

tine: cleanse, tone, and apply serum or moisturiser. Then, seal everything in with a light layer of petroleum jelly. It may feel sticky, but by morning your skin often looks plumper and more radiant.

However, slugging is not for everyone. If you have acne-prone or oily skin, the occlusive layer may trap oils and lead to breakouts. Use this method sparingly or avoid it altogether if your skin reacts poorly.

Overall, slugging is a simple and affordable way to achieve supple skin, especially in colder months when skin tends to feel tight or flaky.

Losing your hair

SEASONAL hair shedding is a temporary increase in hair loss, most noticeable in autumn and sometimes spring. A study in the British Journal of Dermatology found shedding peaks in late summer to early autumn, with people losing up to 60 hairs per day, double the winter rate. Another six-year study of 800+ women showed a higher proportion of telogen (shedding phase) hairs in summer, leading to more loss in autumn.

Dermatologist Dr Christian Merkel explained this as part of an evolutionary cycle - our hair acts like a coat, shedding as seasons change. In summer, sunlight stimulates hair growth hormones. When UV exposure drops in autumn, more strands enter the shedding phase.

Other factors include:

• Dry, cold air and indoor heating - brittle, breakage-prone hair

• Reduced sunlight - ower vitamin D, affecting hair health Hair typically cycles through three phases: growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and shedding (telogen). Seasonal shedding usually lasts up to three months. If it continues longer or appears patchy, consult a dermatologist to rule out issues like genetic alopecia or thyroid disorders.

To reduce damage:

• Avoid tight styles and heated tools

• Use silk/satin hat linings

• Eat foods rich in iron, zinc, biotin, and omega-3s

• Stay hydrated and use moisturising hair products.

In a spin Skin cycling

A HELICOPTER perm, also known as a rotary perm, is a fun and bouncy alterna tive to the traditional perm. It earned its name thanks to the unique method used: rather than using rods placed horizontally, hair is wound vertically around a spinning device, creating a ‘helicopter’ effect.

This technique allows for more natural, voluminous curls that fall in soft, cascading waves, per fect for those seeking a relaxed, beachy look. Unlike tighter, more structured perms, the helicop ter perm is designed to mimic the natural flow of hair, giving a more effortless and tousled style that many find easier to manage. It’s especially beneficial for those with fine or limp hair, as it adds body and movement without a heavy or artificial appearance.

As with any chemical treatment, it’s important to follow your stylist’s advice on aftercare to maintain the curls’ longevity and keep your hair looking its best. A helicopter perm truly offers a modern twist on a timeless classic.

SKINCARE does not need to be overwhelming to be effective. Skin cycling is a popular routine that simplifies product use by rotating active ingredients on specific nights. This helps prevent irritation while allowing your skin time to recover and regenerate.

Developed by dermatologists, the typical skin cycling schedule follows a four-night pattern. Night one is for exfoliation with ingredients like AHAs or BHAs to remove dead skin cells. Night two focuses on applying retinol, a powerful anti-ageing ingredient that boosts collagen and cell turnover. Nights three and four are recovery nights, where you apply gentle, hydrating

products such as moisturisers and barrier-repair creams.

This cycle can be repeated weekly and adjusted depending on skin type or sensitivity. The main idea is to avoid overusing active ingredients, which can lead to dryness, redness, or inflammation.

The result? Smoother, brighter and more balanced skin with minimal effort. Skin cycling also encourages consistency, making it easier to stick to a routine.

If you are new to active ingredients or experience sensitivity, this method offers a gentle introduction without overwhelming your skin.

The root of it

HEALTHY hair begins at the root. Scalp care is the latest trend reminding us that a nourished scalp is key to strong, vibrant hair. Often neglected, the scalp can suffer from buildup, dryness, or oil imbalance, affecting hair growth and overall condition.

Think of your scalp as an extension of your skin. Just like your face, it benefits from regular cleansing, exfoliation and hydration. Scalp scrubs or exfoliating shampoos help remove dead skin cells and excess product, promoting better oxygen and nutrient flow to hair follicles.

Massaging the scalp with oil or serum not only boosts circulation but also helps reduce stress, which is a com-

mon cause of hair loss. Look for products with soothing ingredients like tea tree, salicylic acid or rosemary oil to balance scalp health. You do not need a complicated routine. Just a weekly scalp treatment and gentle daily care can make a visible difference in hair texture and strength. Whether you have curly, straight or colour-treated hair, prioritising scalp care will support long-term hair health and add shine from root to tip.

Hackers ground Europe Athens without cars

A SOPHISTICATED cyber attack on Collins Aerospace’s MUSE software disrupted check-in and baggage systems, causing chaos at Europe’s busiest airports, including Heathrow, Berlin Brandenburg, and Brussels Zaventem, on September 20. The attack led to hundreds of flight delays, 29 cancellations, and average delays exceeding one hour, stranding thousands during peak travel.

Collins Aerospace confirmed the ‘cyber-related disruption’ and shifted to manual paper operations, resulting in long lines and frustrated passengers. Heathrow, with 651 daily departures, and Brussels, where the attack originated, reported significant delays and manual checks. Cirium data highlighted the scale of the disrup-

tion.

Security agencies, including Britain’s NCSC and Germany’s BSI, are investigating alongside Collins Aerospace and law enforcement. The European Commission found no evidence of a widespread attack, but Liberal Democrat MPs raised concerns about possible Russian involvement, citing past incidents like the 2007 Estonia DDoS attack and the 2010 Stuxnet worm.

Expert Hisham Al Assam warned that shared digital platforms create ‘single points of failure’, amplifying disruptions across airline ecosystems. Major carriers like easyJet reported normal operations, while Delta and United faced minimal delays. Ryanair and British Airways remained silent.

ON September 21, Athens celebrated World Car-Free Day with ‘Athens Without a Car 2025’, transforming its usually congested streets into vibrant, car-free zones until 10pm. The traffic ban fostered community engagement, music, and eco-friendly activities, delighting residents.

The day began with the De Profundis Ensemble orchestra performing classical music, while Municipal Advisor Artemis Skoubourdi led a guided walking tour along Athinas Street, sharing stories of its historic buildings. From 11am to 5pm, family-friendly activities included a traffic education workshop, balance bike races, and a ‘bike art’ painting session where kids and adults created colourful artworks using bicycles. Face painting, storytelling, and experiential activities kept children engaged.

DJs from Athens’ radio stations played eclectic music, maintaining high energy. Attendees enjoyed skating and

rollerblading lessons or competed in a slow-motion bike race, where the last to finish without touching the ground won. The event culminated in a concert by Locomondo, turning the streets into a massive dance floor, ending the day with an unforgettable party under the Athenian sky. Notably, Athens, the sixth most polluted EU capital, has improved significantly in recent years due to traffic restrictions and enhanced public transport systems.

Heathrow Airport.

The shifting sands of time

BREAKING VIEWS

But romance does not impress Madrid. After years of legal wrangling, 60 houses are set to be demolished this month.

FOR nearly a century, the beach-houses of Guardamar del Segura have stared down the Mediterranean as if daring the waves to do their worst.

Built on the golden sands of Playa Babilonia, they became the summer playground of families from inland Alicante: a place of paella, dominoes and gossip - offering a living snapshot of the early stirrings of tourism on Spain’s Costa Blanca.

These quirky homes, some with patios originally designed for chickens rather than cocktails, are now in their fifth generation of occupants.

‘My best friend lives next door,’ says campaigner Víctor Sánchez. ‘His mother was friends with my uncle, his grandmother with my grandmother, and now his nieces play with my cousin’s daughters.’

The environment ministry insists they are choking the dunes and preventing the beach from defending itself against storms. Owners, meanwhile, blame a 1990s breakwater for the erosion and mutter darkly about heritage being bulldozed in the name of progress.

Sánchez, now in Essex, still returns each summer to a Guardamar that, unlike Benidorm, has ‘resisted tower blocks’.

He fears the bulldozers will erase more than bricks. ‘These houses are unique,’ he sighs. ‘Elsewhere it’s all chalets with pools and tennis courts that have given way to padel courts. There’s no heart in any of that!’

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.

INTERVIEW

Speaking European: Paul Airey on life in Spain

This week we sat down with Paul Airey, who has made his home on the Costa Calida.

PAUL and his wife first arrived in Spain in 2003, leaving Essex behind, though originally from Burnley and South Wales. The decision, he explained, came down to family. “I realised that I was working just to go on holiday. With my children being so young, it was a now-or-never opportunity.”

His career in Spain has taken several turns. Starting in real estate, he later opened his own agency, then ran a furniture store until retiring in 2022. “Now I host the podcast Spainfully Honest, designed to help people adjust to Spanish life!”

Despite building a life here, one challenge remains: separation from his children. “They were educated in Spain up to A-levels, but chose university in the UK. They now live in London and Ireland, and I miss them so much.”

When asked what he enjoys most, Paul is clear. “I love it here, I class it as home. I love the way of life, the weather, the food and drink, the mix of nationalities.” One sight still moves him: “I still get goosebumps when I pull out of my garage onto the pro-

menade and see the calm Mar Menor.” Bureaucracy can be tough, he warns, but professional help is invaluable. Above all, learning Spanish is essential. After two decades, Paul says without doubt: Spain is home.

Finding home on the Costa Calida.

Image: Paul Airey

A touch of luxury for Mediterranean living

ALTEA, famed for its whitewashed streets, sparkling coastline and artistic spirit, has a new design landmark: Port of Altea, a boutique showroom dedicated to high-end interiors.

Covering 250 square metres, the family-run business showcases a carefully curated range of flooring, curtains, blinds and sun-protection systems. From herringbone LVT floors that capture the warmth of natural wood to bespoke drapery crafted from fine fabrics, every collection has been chosen with Mediterranean living in mind.

The founders bring more than 30 years of international experience, including projects for five-star hotels and luxury cruise ships. That pedigree is reflected in the store’s philosophy:

Port of Altea is not simply a shop, but a destination

where craftsmanship, personal service and design expertise meet. Customers can expect thoughtful advice, tailored solutions and a hands-on approach from consultation through to installation.

Flooring is at the heart of the showroom, with premium LVT, woven vinyl, plush carpets and made-to-measure rugs all on display. Whether for a seafront villa, a modern apartment or a commercial space, the options are extensive. Complementing this is a wide range of made-to-order window dressings, from elegant wave pleats to practical double tracks, designed to bring both style and functionality to interiors.

Equally impressive is the

sun-protection range, which includes screens and awnings that keep interiors cool while preserving outdoor views. In a region that enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, these solutions are as essential as they are stylish.

What sets Port of Altea apart is its combination of international know-how and the values of a family enterprise.

The team understands not only the demands of high-end design, but also the importance of trust, continuity and personal attention. This makes the boutique a valuable partner for private clients as well as developers, architects and the hospitality sector.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Super profits

IT’S almost here! Malaga is about to open its first-ever San Diego Comic-Con, a four-day pop culture extravaganza from September 25 to 28, at the Palacio de Congresos y Ferias, which is expected to attract around 100,000 attendees, or approximately 25,000 daily visitors, from Spain and across Europe.

The influx is boosting the city’s tourism, with hotel occupancy rates projected to exceed 90 per cent and holiday rentals nearing 60 per cent, a significant rise from the 49 per cent at the same time in 2024. The event’s economic impact is estimated to surpass €30 million, with train ticket purchases to Malaga up by 30 per cent, including a 191 per cent boom of passengers.

Fans eager to meet celebrities like Dafne Keen, Taz Skylar, Pedro Alonso, Luke Evans, Ashley Eckstein, and Brian Austin Green will need to reserve a spot for autographs, with each signature costing a whopping €66.55.

Axarquia

Best Oktoberfest abroad

TORROX wrapped up its biggest Oktoberfest yet, turning the town into a little slice of Bavaria. Over three days, thousands flocked to the sprawling venue near the Iberostar hotel and Ferrara sports zone. They were welcomed with authentic German beer, hearty cuisine, and a festival atmosphere that could rival Munich.

The celebration is more than just a party, it’s a cultural bridge. Around 10 per cent of Torrox residents are German, part of the largest German community in southern Europe. Their participation has helped cement the event as “one of the most important gastronomic and festive dates in southern Europe,” according to Mayor Óscar Medina.

“This year saw record attendance from across the Costa del Sol and Andalucia,” Medina added. Visitors enjoyed traditional bratwurst, pretzels, and steins of German beer, all while enjoying the warm Spanish evenings that drew many German retirees to the town in the first place.

Mallorca

Building without drama

THOSE who have tried to build or renovate in Manacor are familiar with this scenario: waiting, waiting… and then more waiting. For many years, getting a construction permit could drag on forever, sometimes up to three years.

But changes are finally coming. Local authorities have started a new modernisation project aimed at fixing its ‘popular’ slow urban planning department. The goal? Less red tape, faster approvals, and smoother communication with residents and professionals.

Some upgrades are already in place. Five new experts have joined the team, including architects and legal staff, helping to speed things up. There’s also an important digital shift: some new online tools now allow residents to start projects, file documents, calculate fees, and even pay them instantly before an application is logged. This small tweak alone is cutting weeks off the process.

Costa Blanca South Happiness hub

THE Spain Happy Index 2025 confirms that Alicante Province is a national leader in well-being and quality of life. The study, which analysed over 8,000 municipalities, ranks Santa Pola (90.62 points), Alicante City (89.99), and Elche (89.40) among the happiest towns in Spain.

Alicante City, benefiting from 299 days of sunshine per year, mild temperatures around 20°C, low rainfall, and calm winds, is the third happiest provincial capital after Malaga and Almeria. Its coastal location, proximity to Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, and strong educational and healthcare networks reinforce its high ranking.

Santa Pola, with 313 sunny days annually and a balanced climate, demonstrates that well-being is not limited to large urban centres. Elche combines cultural offerings, natural reserves such as El Hondo and Clot de Galvany, excellent connectivity, mild temperatures, and low rainfall.

Almeria

Audiovisual Almeria

ALMERIA has been chosen once more as a hotspot audiovisual destination, this time with a well-known luxury automobile brand: Ferrari. This time, the scenic and beautiful Cabo de Gata area has been chosen for the advertisements on social media, showing off the 1999 Ferrari 360 Modena. Ferrari chose one of the most filmed and photographed locations in all of Almeria for the posts, the Las Salinas de Cabo de Gata road, next to a church of the same name. In the social media post, the sleek Ferrari car can be seen driving at a heart-pounding speed along the famous road, which any Almeria resident will know well. The Salt Flats area has seen much action by way of audiovisual productions, perhaps most famously internationally renowned Netflix series, ‘Money Heist’, which is one of the most famous and most-streamed Spanish series of all time. Almeria locations are consistently chosen for their ease of filming, to say nothing of the breathtaking beauty of the province.

A NEW study reveals which towns in Spain are the happiest, and why a mix of sunshine, services, and comfortable living makes all the difference.

The Spain Happy Index 2025, covering over 8,000 municipalities, ranks Los Alcazares as the highest in the Murcia Region, with 89.77 points. The coastal town enjoys 332 days of sun each year, mild 20°C temperatures, and easy access to schools, hospitals, and two airports.

Other coastal towns aren’t far behind. Mazarron scores 82.98 with 307 sunny days and growing services. Aguilas, with 312 sunny days, and Torre-Pacheco, with calm weather and low winds, also make the happiness list!

Inland towns and Murcia City hold their own, too. Lorca (79.93), Fuente Alamo (79.40), and Beniel (79.38) have good services, history, and great connections. Cartagena (72.27) offers port city life plus universities, hospitals, and culture.

ParkandGo: Stress-free airport parking in Alicante

WHEN flying from Alicante Airport, one of the first questions travellers face is: Where can I park my car securely, affordably, and conveniently? For many, the stress of airport parking is almost as bad as the stress of catching a flight. That’s where ParkandGo comes in - a trusted local company that has been taking care of travellers’ vehicles for more than 30 years.

Keep control of your car

Unlike many airport parking providers, ParkandGo allows you to keep your keys. Your vehicle never leaves the premises, so you always know exactly where it is. This guarantee gives customers total reassurance and eliminates the common worry of cars being moved while they are away.

Parking options for every traveller

The facility offers a choice of uncovered, covered, or fully enclosed parking. Whether you’re flying for a quick business trip, a weekend getaway, or an extended holiday, you can choose the level of protection that suits your needs. Frequent travellers can also take advan-

Air controller asleep

AN Air Corsica Airbus

A320 was delayed nearly 70 minutes when its approach to Ajaccio’s Napoléon-Bonaparte Airport was disrupted after the sole air traffic controller on duty reportedly fell asleep.

The flight, which departed Paris Orly late on September 15, 2025, was scheduled to land around midnight but was forced into a holding pattern over the Gulf of Ajaccio.

As the aircraft neared the airport, pilots discovered the runway lights were off and radio calls went unanswered. With no tower guidance, the crew coordinated with emergency services while maintaining safe altitude and fuel reserves. Airport firefighters, unable to contact the controller, called local police. Nearly an hour later, runway lights were activated, radio communication resumed, and the aircraft landed safely at 00.35.

Investigators later con-

firmed that the controller had fallen asleep, though alcohol or drugs were ruled out. Fatigue was identified as the likely cause. Despite the delay, passengers remained calm, with some joking about the extended ‘night-time sightseeing tour’.

Authorities have since launched a review of procedures at Ajaccio airport. Proposals under consideration include increasing staffing levels, modifying

shift schedules, and introducing secondary monitoring systems to prevent controllers from becoming incapacitated during duty.

Officials emphasised that safety was never compromised, as the aircraft carried sufficient fuel and pilots adhered to standard procedures.

Air Corsica is cooperating with investigators, while the French Civil Aviation Authority has declined comment.

tage of long-term contracts with exclusive services, designed to make repeat journeys even easier.

Competitive prices

ParkandGo prides itself on transparent and competitive rates:

• 1 day: from €8

• Weekend: from €16

• 1 week: around €26.95

For longer stays, customers can save even more with tailored packages.

Reliable shuttle service

Convenience is key. ParkandGo operates three minibuses that run continuously between the parking facility and the airport terminal. On departure day, you are dropped directly at the terminal doors. On your return, a quick call or a visit to the pick-up point ensures a fast transfer back to your car.

Simple booking and payment

The booking system is straightforward. Prices can be checked online, reservations made in just a few clicks, and payment completed either in advance or on arrival. This flexibility ensures that the process is stress-free from start to finish.

The crew discovered that the runway lights were switched off.

Photo credit: Wirestock/Freepik

PETS

Seasonal pet-sitters? Avoid the rush

AS with all travel arrangements peak season must be planned early. And it applies to the Christmas and New Year holidays especially. If you are planning to go away and need pet-sitters please do plan now. If you tried us before but went somewhere else, try us again. We’d love to help you.

Remember, the pet-sitters come for free!

And, if you’re still planning a trip in 2025 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised ahead of time. All pets benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network, and the sitters come for free!

Choose HouseSitMatch

for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

1. Register as a homeowner of a house-sitter depending on your motivation, on HouseSitMatch. com.

2. Choose a Standard account (£89 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed.

3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house.

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters or a new place to discover as a house-sitter. Join our network for a small fee, get ID checked for safety and build your

advert or house-sitter profile. It’s done in minutes!

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent Wow! An amazing company to work with for sits.

We couldn’t have eased into the house-sitting world any easier, having been pet owners and worked with the company for many years. The team has been very supportive and caring. Lamia, is truly special and warm. It was a pleasure meeting her after so many years. She is quick to answer and handhold you when need. We loved our sit, the dog, and the owners were lovely. It went without a hitch, and we look forward to sitting again with HouseSit Match.

KemKem Casinelli, pet-sitter, Spain

How do you join? Please register online via our website Housesitmatch.com Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch.

IMAGINE a dog collar that not only tracks your pet’s location but also monitors their health, behaviour and even mood. AI powered dog collars are changing the way we care for our furry companions, offering smart insights through connected apps and real-time alerts. These advanced collars go far beyond traditional GPS trackers. Using builtin sensors and artificial intelligence, they can detect changes in activity levels, rest patterns, heart rate and even vocal cues. This allows owners to spot signs of discomfort, stress or potential illness early on. Some models also offer virtual fencing and training feedback, making them a versatile tool for

Digital dogwear

both safety and well-being. Prices for AI powered dog collars typically range from €100 to €400, depending on features and brand. While they represent a significant investment, the benefits for proactive pet care can be well worth it. For dogs with health concerns or active lifestyles, this tech offers reassurance, peace of mind and a stronger bond between pet and owner.

Plan early if you need pet-sitters over the festive period.

GARDENING

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

TV & SATELLITE

SOLAR ENERGY

POOLS

Driverless sticker

SPAIN has introduced a new sticker to identify driverless cars on its roads, marking a major step toward integrating autonomous vehicles into everyday traffic. The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has unveiled what it calls a ‘technological label’ - a circular, reddish-pink sticker placed on the windscreen of self-driving or remotely operated vehicles involved in official trials. This label is not just symbolic. It displays the car’s registration number, its level of automation, and includes a QR code linked to DGT’s central records. The goal is simple: make sure everyone, from police officers to pedestrians, can instantly recognise when a vehicle is operating without a human driver. According to the DGT, Spain wants to be seen as a pioneer in the safe rollout of autonomous mobility.

The initiative is part of the ESAV Programme, the national framework for testing autonomous vehicles on public roads. Trials will unfold in three stages, starting with controlled system checks before moving toward full pre-deployment. This means drivers in Spain could soon find themselves at a red light next to a car without anyone behind the wheel. Some will be fully automated, while others may be driven remotely, but all will display the same distinctive sticker to avoid confusion and ensure transparency.

For the moment, the sticker will mainly appear on test cars. But its introduction carries wider significance: it prepares Spanish drivers and residents for a future where autonomous transport becomes commonplace.

Back-to-school check

SEPTEMBER always brings a jolt back to reality. The holidays are done, alarms are ringing earlier, and the school run or commute means more hours behind the wheel. But before diving into the routine, it’s worth asking a simple question: is your car ready for the term ahead?

After a summer of long trips or simply sitting under the sun, most cars benefit from a reset. A clean inside and out can transform the driving experience. Wash and wax the bodywork to clear away grime, check wipers and tyres for dirt, and don’t overlook the exhaust area. Indoors,

a quick vacuum, dashboard wipe and refreshed mats make a hectic morning dash far less stressful.

Looks aside, safety is key. Tyres should be inspected for wear and inflated to the correct pressure - low pressure hits both handling and fuel efficiency.

Brakes deserve attention too: any sponginess, sluggish response or odd sounds mean a trip to the garage. Fluids are another must-check: oil, coolant, brake fluid and screenwash should all be topped up, with professional advice sought if anything seems unusual.

The often-forgot-

ten item is the battery. Summer heat and short drives can weaken it, so if it’s old or the car struggles to start, testing it now avoids breakdowns later. Few things are worse than a dead battery on a Monday morning school run.

Preparing your car for the new season doesn’t mean an expensive overhaul. A handful of checks and a bit of cleaning go a long way in keeping journeys safe and stress-free.

With routine about to take over, peace of mind is worth every minute you spend giving your car some TLC.

Spain rolls out new rules for autonomous cars with a special DGT sticker.

Carry out routine maintenance in September.

Spain hazard fines

DRIVERS in Spain are being warned that a habit many see as common sense could now cost them €200.

The DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) has reminded motorists that switching on hazard lights during sudden motorway slowdowns is not legal. Instead, article 109 of Spain’s Reglamento General de Circulación requires drivers to press the brake pedal repeatedly so that rear lights flash, or even signal manually by moving an arm up and down outside the window. Hazard lights, according to the DGT, are strictly reserved for genuine emergencies such as breakdowns, immobilisation, or poor visibility caused by fog, heavy rain or smoke.

AMSTERDAM is trialling digital road signs that display how many drivers stick to the speed limit, in a bid to test whether positive reinforcement can make streets safer. The pilot, launched by the Amsterdam Transport Region, will run until October 9, 2025, across four locations around the capital.

The project replaces the familiar smiley-face warning signs with dynamic boards that show a running tally of well-behaved drivers. Sensors pick up passing cars and register those keeping within the 30 km/h limit, which is regularly exceeded in urban areas.

The clarification has surprised many drivers. Social media users admitted they routinely used hazards in traffic, believing it to be the safest option. But the DGT insists

that misuse creates confusion and that brake lights should be enough to warn other drivers. Motorists persisting with the habit risk fines of €200 - a costly lesson for those unaware of the regulation.

This crackdown is part of a broader push to tighten road behaviour. The DGT has increased surveillance with more cameras, tougher penalties and even new radar-linked STOP signs, known as the S-991d system, which detect when vehicles fail to make a complete halt. Officials argue these measures are about improving safety, particularly in busy urban zones where cars, cyclists and pedestrians share space.

Praise over punishment?

Research by the transport authority suggests that 30 to 40 per cent of drivers surpass the speed limit in 30 zones, often brushing off small violations of five to 10 kilometres per hour as harmless.

Spokeswoman Leo-

nie Veerman told Dutch broadcaster NOS, “People like to conform to the social norm. By making that norm visible, we promote a positive herd mentality.” She added, “The message we are conveying is: your neighbours

are keeping to the rules.”

The new boards have been installed in Landsmeer, Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, Aalsmeer, and Nieuw-Vennep.

After just four days in operation, most signs had already logged between 4,000 and 6,000 drivers adhering to the limit, according to the Amsterdam Transport Region. At the end of the trial, the transport authority and local councils will evaluate whether expanding the scheme to more locations could help counter the perception that ‘everyone speeds anyway’.

Using hazard lights incorrectly in Spain could mean a €200 fine.

Speeding car.

Credit: Kaique Rocha, Pexels.

Polestar 5 Grand Tourer revealed

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

POLESTAR, the increasing popular Swedish electric car brand has revealed its new Polestar 5 model, a fourdoor performance Grand Tourer. Created and designed from the Precept concept car, first unveiled in 2020 the Polestar 5 is that future vision realised in production. As with other Polestar models there are some unusual features, such as a virtual rear window.

Developing the Precept concept car into production with minimal changes, the Polestar Design team has created a five-metre long Grand Tourer sleek roofline. The Polestar 5 uses the digital rear view mirror and virtual rear window as on Polestar 4. Polestar 5 also features the largest panoramic glass roof of any Polestar so far - at just over two-metres long.

Inside, the 4+1 seat electric performance GT the front seats have been designed in collaboration with Recaro

and can be individually reclined for comfort.

and come finished in Charcoal MicroTech as standard or optional Bridge of Weir Nappa leather.

Designed primarily as a four-seater the rear seat passengers can control the four-zone climate system, seat heating, ventilation, and massage functions. These rear seats follow the same form design as the Recaro fronts

Braking is courtesy of Brembo four-piston callipers up front, which are shared with Polestar 3, but in combination with the lightweight 400mm two-piece discs save 12kg over the system in its SUV sibling, improving un-sprung mass and handling.

The Dual motor has sophisticated BWI passive dampers and internal rebound coil springs, while the Polestar 5 Performance uses BWI MagneRide adaptive damping. The dampers read the road up to 1,000 times per second and can react within three milliseconds thanks to magnetorheological fluid.

Polestar 5 employs an in-house developed electric rear motor that contributes up to 450kW and 660Nm to the Polestar 5 Performance’s 650kW and 1,015Nm total power output. This allows the Polestar 5 Performance to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 3.1 seconds, while the 550kW Polestar 5 Dual motor takes just 3.8 seconds to complete the same test. Both versions are electronically limited to 155mph. Available to order now, Polestar 5 Dual motor Launch edition (550kW, 812Nm) is priced from €103,154/£89,500. The Polestar 5 Performance Launch edition (650kW, 1,015Nm) is available from €120,903/£104,900.

British runner wins

SECOND edition of the Marina Alta 21K turned into a true celebration of athletics, with British runner Robert Harrison from Javea’s Llebeig club claiming victory. Harrison crossed the finish line in 1:13:28 to take the top spot on the podium. In the women’s category, Jessica Araceli Ruiz from LA208 Triatlón Club Elche secured first place with a time of 1:29:48.

Nearly 430 runners took part in the event, which covered a flat circular route with just 29 metres of elevation, connecting the four towns of Denia, Els Poblets, El Verger and Ondara.

In the men’s race, second place went to Andreu Aibar Pastor from CA Sense Pressa El Verger with 1:16:08, followed by Jesús Segrelles Quilis, who clocked 1:16:28. The women’s podium was completed by independent runner Patricia Porter Sancho in 1:31:54 and Katie Harrison from Llebeig Javea, who finished third with 1:32:47.

From the early morning, Els Poblets was alive with anticipation as athletes collected their race numbers and warmed up for the 21.097-kilometre challenge. The start of the race was both spectacular and emotional, featuring a tribute to José María Oliver Escrivá. Local authorities and organisers pre-

victory.

sented flowers and a commemorative gift to his relatives, Raúl Oliver and Marta Marsal, before observing a minute of silence in his memory.

Credit: Marina Alta 21K

Robert Harrison from Javea’s Llebeig club claiming