Costa Blanca North 5 – 11 June 2025 Issue 2083

Igniting impact

THE Rotary Club of Javea held its annual Gala Evening on Saturday, May 31 at the Marriott Hotel, bringing together more than 200 guests, including members, local authorities, and visiting Rotarians from other clubs. The event served as a platform to celebrate the commitment and generosity of individuals and institutions that have actively supported the club’s community and international initiatives.

This year’s honours went to HCB Hospital, humanitarian volunteer Inma Catalá, and rowing coach Valentina García.

HCB Hospital was recognised for its longstanding support of public health and prevention programmes. Most notably, the hospital has played a key role for over a decade in the global campaign to eradicate polio,

Rotary International’s flagship project.

Inma Catalá, meanwhile, was applauded for her tireless and selfless contributions to the club’s solidarity projects in Africa. Her donations of school supplies, baby scales, backpacks, laptops and other essential materials have

directly benefited hospitals and schools in underserved areas, offering vital support to vulnerable communities.

The third award was presented to Valentina García, known locally as Tenin, who coordinates the rowing school at Club Náutico Javea. Under her

leadership, over 220 people currently practise rowing in Javea, and two competitive teams have been established within the Valencian region.

In her speech, Rotary Club President Ingrid Monté highlighted the organisation’s strong commitment to youth.

Costa Blanca North • No. 2083 • 5 - 11 June 2025 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

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This year’s honours went to HCB Hospital, humanitarian volunteer Inma Catalá, and rowing coach Valentina García.

Credit: Rotary Club Javea

A night of giving

IT was all sunshine, cava and good vibes on Friday evening, May 20, as the Freemasons of the Puerto de Xàbia Lodge hosted a dazzling gala at Salones Carrasco - raising over €4,000 for two local charities.

With the sun blazing and temperatures near 30°C, around 100 guests arrived for the annual Ladies Night. The evening began on the terrace with zz and canapés, setting a relaxed, cheerful tone.

Inside, the dining hall buzzed as guests greeted their hosts, Worshipful Master John Young and his wife Jenny. A generous three-course meal followed, with wine and drinks owing freely.

Then came the entertainment: The En-

tertainers, a favourite on the Costa Blanca, wowed the crowd with everything from ELO and Shania Twain to West End hits. Guests clapped, swayed and sang along.

But behind the fun was a bigger mission: raising funds for Help of Marina Alta and Cancer Care Javea. With the support of Candy Wright MBE and Jayne Nuttall Blake, the Lodge held an auction and prize draw with fantastic local donations.

During the speeches, Jenny Young thanked all involved. John Young later announced the €4,000 total - met with cheers and applause. The Entertainers returned for one last set as the dance oor lled and the night ended on a joyful high.

Once the plates were cleared and glasses topped up, the entertainment got underway.

IN Finestrat, the Department for the Elderly has launched a new initiative aimed at residents over the age of 65: a podcast workshop that will take place from June 2 to June 17 at the Centre Juvenil, in the afternoon from 4.30 to 6.00pm.

The activity is designed especially for retirees and pensioners who are interested in learning about the world of digital audio. Registration is now open, with limited spaces available, and those interested can sign up at the entrance hall of Finestrat Town Hall.

According to the councillor for the elderly, Mª Teresa Pérez Pérez, this is much more than a simple technical training: “We believe it’s really important to continue offering activities that help our senior citizens get to grips with new technologies.”

She also highlights the broader benefits of the format: “It’s a form of expression that keeps the mind active, improves memory and speech, validates their voice and encourages social interaction.”

Now, from Finestrat, older generations are also joining the podcast wave - leaving their mark through the power of sound.

Save on electricity

How to claim Bono Social

ELECTRICITY prices in Spain fluctuate wildly, often out of sync with your budget. Yet many residents overpay for electricity they could get at a massive discount.

This is where Bono Social comes in - a Spanish government scheme offering up to 65 per cent off your electricity bill if you qualify.

Bono Social is Spain’s official discount programme for vulnera ble households using the PVPC tari ff (Precio Voluntario para el Pequeño Consumidor). It cuts bills significantly, and yes, it is real - not a gimmick.

In 2025, discounts are:

• April to June: 42.5 per cent (vulnerable) and 57.5 per cent (severely vulnerable)

• From July: 35 per cent and 50 per cent

Discounts apply up to a set consumption limit; usage above this threshold is charged at the normal PVPC rate.

Many people qualify: holding a PVPC contract for your main home (up to 10kW), low income, minimum pension, large family certificate, or receiving IMV. Households facing health or dependency needs also qualify.

Apply through an authorised Comercializadora de Referencia (such as Endesa or Naturgy) with an application form, ID, income or pension proof, and your latest bill. Submit by email, post, in person, or via online portal if the provider has one.

If you qualify, you also get the Bono Social Térmico - an annual payment of €35-€375 to cover heating costs. Saving money on electricity can be that simple.

Spain’s pension reform

SPAIN is raising its retirement age to 66 years and 10 months in 2026, but only for those who have not contributed at least 38 years and three months to Social Security. For those meeting that threshold, the retirement age will remain at 65. In 2027, the full retirement

age will rise to 67 for workers below that contribution mark.

These changes come as Spain grapples with growing pressure on its pension system. With the baby boom generation entering retirement and birth rates falling, Social Security is struggling to maintain financial balance. Rising

Unemployment lump sum

Fuel your ambition

SPAIN’S unemployment capitalisation schemeknown as pago único - allows people to cash in their remaining unemployment benefit in a lump sum of up to €37,800 to start a business. Instead of receiving monthly payments, eligible claimants can access all their accrued benefit at once to cover start-up costs, such as renting premises, buying equipment or launching a marketing campaign. Every euro must be invested in self-employment - holidays are excluded.

To qualify, you must be unemployed due to redundancy or contract expiry, not resignation. You need at least three months of benefit left when you apply, and you must not have claimed a lump sum in the past four years. Your business must start within one month of SEPE’s approval, supported by a viable business plan outlining how you’ll use the funds and when you expect to break even.

Applying involves booking an appointment with SEPE or using their website if you have a digital certificate. Submit the official form, your business plan, identification, bank details and any cooperative documents. Once approved, register as self-employed within one month or risk losing the funds.

The scheme can be combined with regional grants or social security discounts for new autónomos. Spain’s pago único can transform your safety net into seed money for your business idea. https://www.sepe.es/HomeSepe/en/

New health initiative

tancy is adding further strain, prompting urgent reforms.

The Spanish government says the adjustments are essential to protect pension funds. Each extra year of work means more contributions and fewer years of payouts. The Spanish Fiscal Authority (AIReF) warns that even with the reform, the wave of retirements will cost between 3-4 per cent of GDP by 2050.

Many workers are worried. Some fear reduced purchasing power if they retire early, while others feel the government has not clearly explained their options.

For those not ready or able to retire in 2026, there are alternatives: delaying retirement for a 4 per cent bonus per year (payable as a lump sum), partial retirement, or flexible retirement.

GOOD news for families: children under 16 in Spain who need glasses or contact lenses will soon have one less thing to worry about. The Spanish government has announced a plan to cover the cost of prescription eyewear for children, just in time for the next school year.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Health Minister Mónica García shared the update, aiming to ensure all children, regardless of family finances, can see clearly at school and at home. It’s part of a broader effort to boost public health and ensure everyone has access to essential services.

The government is allocating €48 million for the scheme. Families won’t need to fill out forms or wait for reimbursement. Instead, up to €100 will be deducted directly from the bill when buying glasses or lenses from an approved optician.

Any child under 16 with a diagnosed vision problem can benefit, as long as they buy from a participating optician. The scheme is expected to start before the 2025-2026 school year. Parents just need a prescription and a visit to an approved optician.

Eye experts highlight the importance of early vision correction for learning and social development. The scheme is also about fairness - ensuring families get the support they need.

Credit: Shutterstock / Zivica Kerkez

A new boutique oasis

GANDIA is strengthening its commitment to quality tourism with the launch of Hotel Indigo Gandia Beach, an exclusive property set to open on Thursday, July 11 in the historic Colonia Ducal complex, right on the seafront.

This boutique hotel, which represents an investment of €7 million, will offer 40 rooms and a distinct identity shaped by its surroundings. The design blends contemporary elements with Mediterranean references, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere.

One of its main highlights will be a chill-out area by the pool - reserved exclusively for guests - where cocktails and light dishes can be enjoyed in a relaxed, elegant setting.

The opening of Hotel Indigo Gandia Beach will also lead to the creation of 75 jobs, both direct and indirect, and will

add 100 new hotel beds to the city’s accommodation offer.

With this addition, Gandia will reach a total of 6,800 hotel places, becoming the fourth largest hotel capacity in the Valencian Community.

“It’s designed for those who seek an authentic and memorable experience,” say representatives of the chain. This

boutique concept moves away from large, impersonal resorts and instead focuses on personal service, carefully curated décor, and tailored offerings that reflect the tastes of the most discerning guests.

Feels like summer

OVER the last weekend - Saturday May 31 and Sunday June 1 - the Costa Blanca saw soaring temperatures, with some parts of the Marina Alta coast hitting 33°C, and inland areas brushing a scorching 38°C, according to Avamet and MeteoXàbia.

Predictably, the beaches in Denia and Javea were rammed. Think August bank holiday levels: umbrellas shoulder to shoulder, and the sea transformed into a motorway of yachts, speedboats, jet skis and kayaks. Summer, it seems, is well and truly here - calendar or not.

Credit: Joanbanjo/Creative Commons

Summer, it seems, is well and truly herecalendar or not.

But there’s another side to this early start. As holidaymakers arrive earlier each year, drawn by the warmer weather (thanks, climate change), many coastal services just aren’t ready yet.

THE sixth edition of the Transcostablanca charity race, organised by firefighters from the Marina Baixa, was expected to attract close to 1,000 participants across all categories and raise around €20,000 in support of the fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

The event took place on Sunday, June 1, along a five-kilometre urban route in Benidorm. All proceeds will go to ADELA CV, an association dedicated to supporting people affected by ALS.

One of the key figures behind the

Local councils have been caught on the back foot, with essential beach infrastructure still in progress.

In Javea, for instance, the system that marks out safe swimming areas - known as the balizamientois still being put out to tender. That means no buoys, and nowhere safe for the many boats to anchor, putting extra pressure on the fragile posidonia (sea grass) beds.

Over in Denia, the local council is slightly ahead of the game. On Monday June 2, o cials announced the details of their 2025 beach serviceseverything from lifeguards and toilets to cleaning, accessibility and those all-important safety buoys.

Race against ALS

race, Benidorm firefighter Paco Pedrera, shared the personal story that gave rise to the initiative. His wife was diagnosed with ALS, which he described as “a neurodegenerative disease with no cure and an average life expectancy of two to five years.” In addition to the emotional and physical toll, he stressed the financial burden of dealing with the illness. While welcoming the newly approved

‘ELA Law’, Pedrera criticised the central government for delays in implementing it: “That’s why we’re having to organise events like this to raise funds.”

This year’s race carried the slogan ‘The finish line: extinguishing ALS’ and had the backing of former footballer and ALS advocate Juan Carlos Unzué, who recorded a video message in support of the cause.

The new hotel is aimed at travellers looking for more than just sun and sea.

Credit: Hotel Indigo Gandia

From Shropshire to sunshine

NEIL HUGUES had a dream: to ride all the way from his quiet corner of Shropshire to the sunny streets of Benidorm - not by car, not by train, but on his bright yellow Vespa.

On Thursday, May 18, he waved goodbye to England and began his journey south with his partner riding pillion. “If you see a British couple on a yellow Vespa, give us a wave,” he posted on social media before departure.

Their route? First, a ferry from Portsmouth to Santander, crossing the Bay of Biscay. From there, they made their way to Madrid, where they stopped for two days to soak in the Spanish capital. After a well-deserved rest, they hit the road again

Rentals without licence

SPANISH government has called on the accommodation rental giant Airbnb to immediately remove more than 65,935 illegal listings of holiday homes hosted on its platform for failing to comply with regulations governing the advertising of such properties.

In most cases they do not include the required licence or registration number needed to rent out a property of this type. Other infringements include failing to indicate the legal status of the landlords or listing fake or incorrect licence numbers that do not match those issued by the relevant authorities.

Despite tighter controls in recent years, there remains a huge number of listings of questionable legality on platforms such as Airbnb – including many in the Marina Alta. A quick search on Airbnb confirms that a significant proportion of homes and apartments offered for rent do not show any registration or licence number.

To verify this, we carried out a review of Airbnb listings in the main tourist areas of the Marina Alta, checking a total of 150 listings across Denia, Javea, Calpe, Teulada-Moraira, Benissa and El Poble Nou de Benitachell. Specifically, 50 listings from Denia, 35 from Javea, 30 from Calpe, 15 from Moraira, and 10 each from Benissa and Benitachell were analysed. The results show out of those 150, 65 included the required information, 85 did not.

for the final six-hour stretch to the Mediterranean.

On Monday, May 27, Neil proudly shared the news:

“We made it! Shropshire to Benidorm on a Vespa.”

With his immaculate Vespa, matching gear, and easy confidence, Neil looks like someone who’s been devoted to admiring and caring for these iconic Italian machines his whole life.

On his photo, Neil throws his fist in the air in triumph, his Vespa gleaming in the Benidorm sun.

So next time you see a bright yellow Vespa cruising through town, remember: it might just be Neil and his partner - and they’ve earned every kilometre of it.

Credit: Neil Hugues

“We made it! Shropshire to Benidorm on a Vespa.”

So if you’re planning to rent a holiday home this summer, keep this in mind.

Credit: Rodriguillo/Creative Commons

Calpe lifeguard contract

THE contractor will be responsible for ensuring safe bathing conditions on Calpe’s beaches over the next four years. Their duties will include preventing potential incidents and assisting those

in danger. Supervision will be carried out both on land and at sea, from shore patrols, proximity chairs, and rescue boats covering the 13 kilometres of coastline.

The new contract, valued at €3,155,000 over four years, divides service provision into low, mid and high seasons, with different levels of staffing and resources depending on the time of year. Lifeguard services will be provided at Cala de la Calalga, Playa de la Fossa, Cala del Racó del Port, Playa de Cantal Roig, Cala del Morelló, Playa del Arenal-Bol and Playa de Puerto Blanco.

Rescue boats and medical transport must be able to cover the entire coastline. The assisted bathing service will be offered at accessible beach zones on Playa de la Fossa and Arenal-Bol.

Staffing and service delivery will be adapted to each period. This includes varying numbers of lifeguards, beach

supervisors, ambulance drivers, boat captains and other personnel - rising to as many as 32 people in peak season.

The ambulance service must

operate year-round, while rescue boats will be active during the high seasons. Working hours will be set by the town council.

Reminder of e-scooter rules

A FATAL accident involving an electric scooter on Calle Murtal has prompted Benidorm authorities to reinforce key safety rules and regulations surrounding the use of personal mobility vehicles (PMVs) in the town.

The incident occurred on Monday, June 2, when

a man riding an e-scooter was involved in a crash that proved fatal.

As electric scooters become an increasingly common feature of urban life, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks they can pose - particularly when used outside the framework of established safety guidelines.

In response, Benidorm City Council has stepped up its efforts to inform residents and visitors about the correct and legal use of these vehicles. The council is reminding the public that personal mobility vehicles are not permitted for com-

mercial deliveries. This includes the growing number of couriers who use standard e-scooters for transporting goods - an activity that is expressly prohibited under both national and local traffic regulations.

To back this up, the Local Police are conducting daily inspections across Benidorm. Officers are checking that e-scooter riders wear helmets, comply with speed limits, and carry valid liability insurance. Infringements may result in fines ranging from €80 to €500, and in some cases, vehicles may be confiscated.

Rescue boats and medical transport must be able to cover the entire coastline.

Local Police are conducting daily inspections across Benidorm.

World Bicycle Day in Altea

ON Sunday June 1, Altea marked World Bicycle Day with a family-friendly cycling route of around four kilometres along the Algar river, followed by a wide range of activities and workshops at the Altea Sports Centre.

The bike ride set off at 10.30am from the Sports Centre itself, with BMX

circuits and workshops getting underway from 11.30am. Councillor for Sport Sara Soler said: “It was a very accessible route, so anyone could join in. Afterwards, there were bike maintenance workshops run by the Pere Joan Caragol Cycling Club, and CC Altea set up a BMX circuit.”

Soler thanked both

€6,000 raised

MORE than €6,000 was raised for Masonic charities during this year’s Annual Masonic Golf Tournament, held on Thursday, May 29, at Bonalba Golf Resort in Muchamiel.

Organiser W. Bro. Peter Johnson credited the generosity of players, sponsors and Freemasons from across the Province of Valencia for the success of the fundraising effort, which included a Golden Ticket draw sponsored by Green Parrot Tourism (€1,480) and a raffle that collected an additional €750.

The charity-driven event drew over 80 golfers from across the region, grouped into 21 teams, for a spirited day of competition under sunny skies. The tournament, a fixture on the Freemasons’ calendar, was played in a Texas Scramble format, designed to foster teamwork and camaraderie.

Prizes were awarded for skill and precision, including the longest drive on hole 2 and nearest the pin on holes 4, 8, 11 and 14. Winners received golf balls, champagne, and vouchers for Bonalba’s restaurant, hotel and green fees.

With its winning combination of sport, fellowship and philanthropy, the event once again proved to be a celebration not only of golf, but of the Masonic values of unity and support for those in need.

clubs for their involvement and support.

The initiative was jointly organised by the departments of Sport and the Environment. Councillor for the Environment Jose Orozco had encouraged people to take part, revealing “the cycling route crossed the recently inaugurated pedestrian bridge,

passed through the natural area surrounding the river - which is currently being improved - and returned via La Pila and the Via Verda.”

No prior registration was required to take part in the event. Anyone interested in joining future events should attend the Altea Sports Centre with their bicycle.

event

YES, you read that right - Louis Vuitton’s gone and picked Gandia as the backdrop for its Men’s Pre-Fall 2025 campaign, putting our sunny corner of the Med rmly on the global style map.

With more than 56 million followers and nearly 500 shops worldwide, the French fashion giant chose the sands of Gandia beach - along with local spots like the RH Bayren Hotel - to show o its new menswear collection in a series of slick photos and videos. Behind the scenes, it’s all thanks to Gandia’s very own Film O ce, part of the local tourism department. They’ve been working to promote the town as a go-to location for shoots, and clearly it’s paying o - this time with one of the biggest names in fashion.

And it’s not just Vuitton. Gandia’s already had its fair share of lm crews over the years, with adverts, TV series and even the odd lm being shot here. Who needs Hollywood when you’ve got the Costa Blanca?

After the ride, further activities were held.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Altea

Provincial Grandmaster Rodney Bignell presenting the John William Harvey Masonic Memorial Trophy to the winning team from San Juan de España Lodge No 28.

Credit:

Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia

‘Ugly Faces’, good cause

ART JEANE, the Brazilian-born artist, recently spoke to Euro Weekly News following her latest public intervention in Denia’s town centre, where she installed a series of Ugly Faces artworks made from recycled materials and cigarette butts collected during local beach clean-ups. The pieces appeared overnight on cardboard canvases placed along Carrer de Loreto, each featuring distorted human faces stitched and painted with fabric, wire, and

tobacco waste. The goal? To jolt passers-by into reflecting on the damage caused by smoking.

“I arrived in Spain 20 years ago,” Jeane explains. “I was born in São Paulo and had originally planned to settle in Italy, but I didn’t feel at home there. I came to Spain and found that opportunities just started to appear. It felt like destiny.”

She first lived in Oliva, then moved to Valencia, but eventually found her place

in Denia. “I live in an old flat, nothing fancy. I like to keep things simple.”

Jeane’s striking first artworks, featuring her now recognisable ‘ugly faces’, weren’t created with the intention of selling. “I was just making them for myself,” she says. “But because I’m deeply involved in humanitarian causes, a cardiologist from Catalonia who works with patients struggling to quit smoking asked to exhibit my work in his clinic.”

FLAMES got so close to the AP-7 that firefighters were working right there on the hard shoulder. Meanwhile, thick smoke was blurring the outlines of detached houses just metres from the blaze.

The fire broke out on Friday May 30 at around 1pm in the Mascarat area, within the municipality of Calpe (just next to Benissa), and though it was quickly brought under control, it could’ve easily been far worse.

That much is clear in a video shared by the provincial fire service.

Bone-dry brush and soaring temperatures added to the concern as the fire spread, but thanks to a rapid response from both aerial units and crews sent out from Denia and Benissa fire stations, it was all under control by 3.03pm

- and without any major flare-ups.

In the end, it was more of a scare than a disaster. But with a scorching summer ahead, there’s more of this to come.

Here are 10 simple ways to avoid fires this summer

1. Don’t throw cigarette ends.

2. No barbecues in the wild.

3. Clear garden clutter.

4. Watch where you park.

5. Keep a bucket or hose handy.

6. Don’t mess with fireworks.

7. No glass in the grass.

8. Stick to marked paths on hikes.

9. Report smoke straight away.

10. Teach the children.

There’s more of this to come.

Credit: Art Jeane

Three artworks by the artist Jeane.

Gandia’s new marina

GANDIA has just announced plans for a brand new marina that’s set to become a major draw for tourists and locals alike. The idea is to boost the town’s offering when it comes to water sports and seaside fun.

“This is going to be a key part of the transformation of the Grau and the beach area,” said mayor José Manuel Prieto. “We’re expecting it to create jobs too, thanks to a serious business investment that’ll expand our town’s nautical scene.”

The council’s already working on getting the green light for the project, and if all goes to plan, building work should kick off in September.

It’s all part of what the mayor’s calling ‘the new Grau’, with the marina

joining the recently revamped port sheds and the Oceanographic Institute. Between public and private investment, we’re talking over €30 million going into the port area alone.

The plans include a modern and sustainable marina - not just for boats, but for everyone, with separate areas for leisure, water sports and boat services.

Upgrades include dredging the port, fully refurbishing the docks and pontoons, adding fingers (those walkways for boats), and improving facilities so they can handle larger vessels. On top of that, they’re aiming for energy self-sufficiency with the help of solar panels and other green tech.

Wild boar again

IF you’ve been in Denia for a while, you’ll know the wild boar round here aren’t exactly shy. Like in many parts of Spain, they’ve been popping up on country roads, rural trails and even in town centres for years now. So much so, it’s barely news anymore. But now they’ve gone one better - they’ve decided they quite like the water too.

A video’s been doing the rounds lately showing one of these fearless pigs cooling off - fair enough, it’s been scorching - by taking a dip off the north breakwater of the port. The footage is honestly quite something. You see the boar standing there on the rocks, hesitating a bit, sizing things up… and then it just dives straight into the sea, headfirst. In the background you can

spot the Baleària ferry terminal - perfect bit of entertainment for anyone waiting to board.

And that’s not all. Turns out another boar was caught on camera not long before, this time going for a swim in someone’s pool in a local housing estate, also in Denia. It even used the pool steps - as

if it knew exactly what it was doing. Bit of a laugh, until you realise it left the pool floor in a right state.

Jokes aside, the growing presence of wild boar is becoming a serious issue around here.

Let’s just hope they don’t discover jacuzzis next.

The first phase will see an €8 million investment.

The growing presence of wild boar is becoming a serious issue.

Credit: LMP/Creative Commons

Credit: Ayuntamiento Gandía

Believing in people

AT just 22, Hamidu has faced more than most do in a lifetime. He arrived in Gandia alone, undocumented, and underage, with nowhere to sleep. For months, he relied on friends or the local mosque for shelter. A friend eventually introduced him to Cáritas, the Catholic charity that o ers more than food and clothing - it o ers a path to autonomy.

Today, Hamidu shares a at, works in a restaurant and is about to complete his secondary education. His story re ects the quiet but transformative work of Cáritas Gandia, particularly through its Casa Hogar Teresa Marqués programme, which provides supervised housing for homeless people.

Arantxa Segura, a sta member, explains: “It’s not just about a roof over your head. It’s about emotional, social and especially professional support.”

When Hamidu rst arrived in 2022, there were no spaces available, but he kept coming - for meals, workshops and to build trust. Then came the call: a room had opened up.

Living in that shared space gave him structure, support, and a clear plan. Now independent, he says: “Thanks to Cáritas I have papers, a job, and peace of mind.”

As sta member José Figueres puts it: “When we believe in people, they nd the strength to move forward.”

CANTÃMUS CHOIR is tuning up for two joyful summer concerts this June, and if you haven’t booked your ticket yetnow’s the time!

The concerts, titled Shining Voices, will be held at two lovely venues: the light and modern Ermita San Josep in La Fustera on Friday June 13, and the charming, historic Ermita del Pópul in Javea on Friday June 20. Both events promise an uplifting afternoon of song, cava, and community spirit.

The choir’s musical programme offers a wonderful mix of styles and moods - from the gentle beauty of Abide With Me and For the Beauty of the

Shining Voices

Earth, to toe-tapping favourites like Down by the Riverside and the joyful energy of Simple Gifts. There are also some modern gems in the line-up, including A Thousand Years and Walking on

Sunshine - so expect to be both moved and thoroughly entertained.

As always with Cantãmus, it’s not just about the music. Tickets are just €12.50 and include a glass of cava and a slice of cake

during the interval, making it a perfect summer afternoon out. Even better, part of every ticket sold will go to Cáritas, helping support their work in the local community. Seats are limited, so don’t leave it too late. You can book your tickets online at philipashley.com/ boxoffice.php or call 965 581 483 to reserve by phone.

Whether you’re a regular concertgoer or just fancy something different this June, Shining Voices is sure to lift your spirits.

Regeneration success

THE new breakwaters built in 2023 are e ectively containing the deposited sand, ensuring that the 3.6-kilometre stretch of coastline maintains a minimum beach width of 30 metres. It’s been nearly a year and a half since the regeneration of Les Deveses was completed - the most ambitious project ever undertaken to restore beaches along the Marina Alta coastline.

A large-scale intervention, with an equally signi cant budget of €15 million, despite being designed with a relatively short lifespan: 25 years.

appears to be doing its job. After its second winter, storms do not seem to have a ected this section of the coast, which has retained its beach width. Sand is accumulating particularly near the breakwaters, which prevent it from being carried northwards.

Two new breakwaters, the reinforcement of an existing one, and the addition of 650,000 cubic metres of sand made it possible to recover a beach width of over 30 metres (reaching up to 110 metres at its northern end, near the mouth of the Molinell river) along a 3.6-kilometre stretch of coastline.

This can clearly be seen in the image here - a relatively recent satellite photograph taken by Sentinel last October.

For now, however, this major engineering project

Especially at the breakwater furthest to the left, at the mouth of the Molinell, a large amount of sand has gathered.

The concerts will be held in two lovely venues.

Les Deveses beach now wider than Oliva after regeneration works. xxx

Credit: Sentinel satellite

Rojales netball cup

THE Alfas Netball Team (ANT) from L’Alfas del Pi competed in the annual netball tournament held in Rojales, joined by teams from Madrid, Valencia, Ciudad Quesada, Pinoso, and the host town.

Each team played six ercely contested matches, with Rojales Netball emerging as champions and ANT securing a commendable third place. ANT won three matches, drew one, and lost two, showcasing their skill and determination.

Netball, though not widely practised in L’Alfàs del Pi, has been played on the Costa Blanca for 15 years. On September 11, 2019, a group of women, led by Lisa Gri n, presented the town’s rst netball tournament to Mayor Vicente Arques. Held on September 21 at Camping Cap Blanch in Albir, the

charity event honoured two friends and featured six teams with strong support from sponsors: Torrevieja, La Manga, Pinoso, Javea, Valencia, and L’Alfas del Pi.

Netball, akin to Dutch korfball and Argentine pelota al cesto, resembles basketball but is played on a 30x15-metre court divided into three zones, with baskets on poles without backboards.

Seven-player teams pass the ball to a designated shooter to score, with movement restricted by zones. Popular in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, the tournament primarily featured British players, showing the sport’s growing local appeal on the Costa Blanca.

Find the Alfas Netball Team on Facebook by searching ‘Alfaz Netball Team’.

International Volunteer Fair by the sea

ON Sunday, June 1, the picturesque beachside promenades of Bulevar de los Músicos and Paseo de las Estrellas in l’Albir transformed into a vibrant meeting point for residents and visitors alike, as l’Alfas del Pi launched its first International Volunteer Fair - a celebration of community, cooperation and global awareness.

Among the NGOs taking part were well-known organisations such as Intermón Oxfam, Médicos del Mundo, Cáritas, Manos Unidas, Helsinki España, the Red Cross, and Solidaridad Internacional del País Valencià, alongside grassroots groups from across the Marina Baixa and beyond. Many of those offer opportunities for volunteering that

are open to non-Spanish speakers, making the fair a unique opportunity for international residents to connect with meaningful local projects.

The aim was to raise awareness about global challenges - from poverty and inequality to climate justice and human rights - while promoting local action as a powerful driver of change.

Highlights of the day

included:

• ‘Stories to dream by the sea with your family’ - a storytelling session for all ages.

• A performance of ‘The rebirth of harmony’ by Racatrá Teatro, an activist theatre company tackling social issues through art.

• A live set by Chamaleon Jazzgroup, blending jazz and fusion to get the crowd moving.

Alfaz netball team.

The theme ‘A day to change the world’ set the tone for a programme that blended fun and reflection.

IN recent months, there has been an increase in questions among property owners about whether they must deposit a security deposit in a seasonal rental. This is understandable. Since August 2024, we have witnessed a flood of regulatory changes at both the national and regional levels. These changes (often uncoordinated) have generated considerable uncertainty and doubts. Many believe that, since these are not habitual residence rentals, no obligation exists. However, the Valencian regional regulations and the Urban Leases Law (LAU) state otherwise. We analyse this in this week’s article.

What does the Urban Leases Act (LAU) say?

Article 36 of Law 29/1994

on Urban Leases establishes different types of security deposits depending on the use of the property:

- One month’s rent for habitual residence rentals (Art. 2 LAU).

- Two months’ rent for non-habitual residence rentals, such as seasonal rentals (Art. 3.2 LAU).

In these cases, delivering the security deposit is mandatory. It needs to be deposited within 30 days of the signing of the contract or the start of the rental period. And it cannot be waived by the parties. What is understood by a seasonal rental or rental for non-habitual residence use?

The Urban Leases Act establishes that rentals for non-habitual residence use

are those that do not aim to satisfy the tenant’s permanent housing needs. Specifically, ‘this includes leases of urban properties contracted for a season, whether summer or any other, and those contracted for carrying out industrial, commercial, artisanal, professional, recreational, welfare, cultural or educational activities on the property, regardless of who contracts them’.

This category also includes tourist rentals, which are specifically defined and regulated by Valencian regional law. Decree-Law 9/2024 of August 2 by the Generalitat Valenciana introduced a clear negative criterion: only rentals lasting 10 days or less are considered tourist rentals. Tourist rentals are exempt from presenting and depositing any security

deposit. But what about rentals of 11 days or more?

Urban Security Deposit Department of the Generalitat Valenciana.

According to the Territorial Secretary of Valencia (Urban Security Deposits), it is mandatory to deposit the security deposit in a seasonal rental that lasts more than 11 days. This applies even if the periods are short and occasional. And waiving this deposit is not allowed.

- For rentals longer than 10 days but less than 30, the amount of the security deposit will be the total amount agreed in the contract.

- For rentals of one month or longer, the security deposit will be equivalent to one month’s rent.

In all cases, the return of the

security deposit can only be requested by the landlord. Conclusion.

Although it may be a headache, if you are a landlord, you are obliged to deposit the security deposit with the GVA. Even for very short seasonal rentals (12 days, 14 days, etc.). Otherwise, the administration could impose sanctions. At White-Baos Lawyers, we are experts in tourist and seasonal rentals and can advise you on this and other related real estate law matters. Do not hesitate to contact us. The information provided in this article does not constitute legal advice but is intended for general informational purposes only.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

Spanish village will pay you €1,600

ALMADRONES, a small village in Castilla-La Mancha, is o ering up to €1,600 a month, free housing, and meals to attract new residents. With a population of around 55 and located just over an hour from Madrid, Almadrones is part of a repopulation initiative supported by the private company Rebollo & Díaz.

The plan is simple: move to Almadrones, help the local economy, and you’ll be paid between €1,000 and €1,600 monthly, along with rent-free housing and food. The village also has high-speed internet and coworking spaces, making it suitable for remote workers.

Positions in retail, waiting, kitchen work and

other local businesses are available, while those with service skills are encouraged to start their own ventures.

Applicants will need a car, as schools and services are a drive away, and the housing may need some minor improvements. However, compared to cramped city ats and long commutes, this is a promising alternative.

Spain’s rural depopulation is pushing towns like Almadrones to o er such incentives.

Whether you’re a young worker, a family, or a retiree, Almadrones o ers a chance to live in a quiet community while earning a steady income.

Applications are being accepted through the platform ‘Con las puertas abiertas’.

Ice Tea Insurance

LIPTON ICE TEA has partnered with rapper and actor Ice-T to launch a playful ‘Ice Tea Insurance’ campaign in the Netherlands and Belgium. The initiative aims to compensate customers who are served the wrong brand of iced tea when expecting Lipton.

Running throughout summer 2025, the campaign allows customers to claim a free Lipton Ice Tea if they receive an alternative brand at a café or restaurant. The move follows a YouGov study in the Netherlands, which found 44 per cent of consumers had been served a different drink than expected, and 81 per cent of frequent iced tea drinkers asso-

ciate the term with Lipton.

Despite being Europe’s market leader and a staple in the US, Lipton says too many fans still end up disappointed.

The campaign cleverly plays on IceT’s name and reputation, combining the artist’s legacy in music and film with Lipton’s brand identity. Ice-T rose to fame with his 1991 album Original Gangster and has since become a pop culture icon.

According to Lipton, the campaign underscores the value of originalityboth in music and in what’s served in your glass.

Move to Almadrones and help the local economy. The campaign plays on Ice-T’s name and reputation.

Correos closes branches

IF your local Correos office has closed, you’re not alone. Spain’s postal operator is reducing its branch network nationwide, turning many long-standing post offices into a thing of the past.

The closures are part of a ‘modernisation and concentration strategy’ approved in April 2024, focusing on consolidating services in fewer locations. This means shutting branches, especially those in El Corte Inglés stores and shopping centres. So far, offices in Madrid, Badajoz and Alcorcon have closed, with more expected.

The urgency follows heavy losses: Correos reported a €94 million operating loss in 2024, down from €125 million in 2023, with total losses rising to €522 million due mainly to a €428 million workforce provision. The company is now prioritising financial services, branch consolidation, and e-commerce growth.

Cheap homes

WHILE much of Spain’s property market is soaring, one village near Valencia is going the other way, attracting attention for affordable homes. About an hour and a half from Valencia City, Ayora offers 100m² houses for under €55,000, with an average price of just €544 per square metre, according to Idealista. By comparison, Valencia City prices approach €3,000 per square metre, and smaller towns like L’Eliana or Canet d’En Berenguer are more than four times higher than Ayora. Property prices in Ayora have fallen 8 per cent over the past year, unlike most

of Spain, making it a rare buyer-friendly market.

Ayora is not alone; nearby towns such as Mogente, Villanueva de Castellon, Enguera and Bocairent also offer homes for less than €700 per square metre. These towns lack beaches or luxury shopping but provide space, peace and charm appealing to those seeking quieter living.

Once overlooked as too rural, towns like Ayora are gaining interest as remote working and a desire for better quality of life grow. For those wanting a full-sized home for the price of a parking space, Ayora is worth considering.

The closures will mainly affect small businesses relying on affordable shipping, elderly residents who need physical services for pensions and ID renewals, and shoppers using branches for convenience. This trend mirrors wider European changes, with the UK, Germany and France all reducing or digitising postal services. Unlike elsewhere, Correos has offered little support to those most affected, raising concerns about access for vulnerable users as Spain’s postal network shrinks.

Influencer

ads under fire

INFLUENCER marketing is booming, but it’s facing growing scrutiny in Portugal. Deco, the Portuguese Association for Consumer Protection, calls for urgent reforms to make social media advertising more transparent.

The group says many influencers blur the line between personal content and paid promotions. Products like beauty treatments, slimming teas, and supplements are often pushed without being labelled as ads - posing risks, especially for young and vulnerable users.

Deco argues that Portugal’s current Advertising Code is outdated and doesn’t reflect the digital reality. It wants simpler, clearer ru-

les, better monitoring, and stronger enforcement. The group also supports awareness campaigns to help the public understand influencer marketing, particularly younger audiences who are most exposed to it. While countries like France and the UK already require influencers to mark sponsored content clearly, Portugal has been slow to act. Deco believes the time for change is now.

The aim, it says, is not to ban influencers from earning a living but to ensure people know when they’re being advertised to. Greater transparency will protect consumers and level the playing field in the fast-changing world of digital media.

The postal operator is reducing its branch network.

Ayora, a hidden gem in inland Valencia, offers homes for under €55,000 - and breathtaking views like this.

Portugal may tighten rules on online advertising.

Credit : tokar, Shutterstock

Credit: Kampus Production

The future of flying

This bold new seating concept, unveiled at the expo, has travellers debating if it’s the future of flying or just a quirky experiment. What’s your verdict?

AS if the news about standing-only plane seats wasn’t enough, Airbus is now considering double-decker seating in economy class. According to the Daily Mail, Spanish start-up Chaise Longue has teamed up with Airbus to design a cabin where passengers are split between two levels. The top row sits on a platform, while the bottom row remains in the usual position. In theory, everyone gets more space, avoiding cramped knees and awkward apologies when reclining.

Alejandro Núñez Vicente, who developed the concept while studying in London, says it aims to make flying more comfortable and to mark the start of a ‘new era’ for passengers. On

the upper level, passengers can recline without bothering those behind. On the lower level, there is finally room to stretch out - though some online have dubbed it the ‘f**t zone’.

Both levels have space under the seats for bags, and without overhead lockers, the cabin is expected to feel airier. Vicente sees double-decker seating as an addition to standard seating, not a replacement, with rows potentially running down the centre of the cabin. Emirates is reportedly interested.

For now, it remains a concept. Airbus has confirmed work on the idea with Chaise Longue, but these seats will not be appearing on flights to Alicante or Edinburgh any time soon.

Discounts for used oil

WITH fuel prices still high across Spain, Repsol has launched an unusual but practical scheme: trading your used cooking oil for fuel discounts. What began as a local trial in Madrid is now expanding to more petrol stations nationwide, offering households a small but helpful way to save money and reduce waste.

Repsol, one of Spain’s main fuel providers, is offering a €0.30-per-litre discount in exchange for used olive or sunflower oil. Instead of cash, the discount is credited to your Waylet account - Repsol’s app for payment and discounts. The collected oil is turned into renewable fuel, part of Repsol’s effort to reduce emissions and support sustainability.

To participate, bring your used cooking oil

The scheme is now expanding.

in a transparent plastic bottle (up to five litres) with a secure cap to a participating Repsol station. Staff will inspect and accept the bottle if it meets these requirements.

Once accepted, you scan a QR code provided by staff with your

Waylet app, and the credit is instantly added. The balance can only be used through the app at Repsol stations. More stations across Spain are joining the initiative, which aims to keep old oil out of landfills and contribute to cleaner energy goals.

OVER the years it has become apparent that fashion often repeats itself by looking to the past and it has been suggested that there are very few really new ideas.

2025 however promises to see a brand new design in sneakers inspired by Sweden’s most popular sweet the Ahlgrens bilar car shaped treats which were first introduced to the country in 1953.

Now, with the advent of Stockholm Fashion Week, a selection of oversized sneakers based on the design and colours of the sweets (pink, green and off-white) is being produced by TBWA\Stockholm in association with artist Bucktron and Cloeta Sweden.

Bucktron, found it particularly interesting to try to match modern fashion with Sweden’s iconic sweetie and the result appears likely to be a genuine winner.

Arguably, not only are the sweets very moreish, they represent the most successful Swedish car of all time, outse-

lling Saab and Volvo since their creation more than 70 years ago. These enormous sneakers are handmade and come in limited editions that are claimed to be the perfect mix of nostalgia, playfulness, and avant-garde design.

The sneakers feature the brand’s signature colours and come packaged in a special, oversized box that reimagines

the classic Ahlgrens bilar candy bag.

Ahlgrens bilar’s sneakers will launch in a limited edition on Thursday, June 5, exclusively at ahlgrensskor.se.

Organised by the Association of Swedish Fashion Brands, Stockholm Fashion Week runs for just a few days in the first week of June over a range of different venues.

Sweets inspire sneakers Spain’s climate defence plan

SPAIN has committed €530 million to defend itself against escalating climate threats. The announcement comes months after October’s devastating oods in Valencia, which claimed 233 lives and left communities grieving and demanding answers. In response, the government has unveiled a new national plan to map high-risk zones, restore riverbeds, widen ravines and upgrade the water infrastructure that failed during the disaster.

With drought now gripping much of southern Europe, Spain is shifting its approach from reacting to rebuilding. The aim is resilience, not just recovery, through better forecasting and systems designed to withstand future crises.

The €530 million plan focuses on ood prevention, targeting the kind of weather event that struck Valencia. The strategy includes restoring riverbeds, remapping ood-prone zones, and repairing damaged

water and sewage systems.

The plan also calls for renaturalising rivers and creating space for oodwater to divert it from urban areas.

The Valencia oods were driven by a phenomenon known as DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos), when cold upper air meets warmer, humid ground air, triggering sudden, violent storms. Due to climate change, DANAs are becoming more frequent, fuelled by warming seas and higher global temperatures.

Cristian Lesaec, head of a victims’ association, welcomed the plan but emphasised the need for guarantees and clear communication with municipalities. While experts say the investment is a strong start, they caution it may not be enough. AEMET forecasts extreme weather could double in frequency by 2030, and broader, longterm funding may be needed. Implementation will be the real test. For now, Spain has taken a crucial step forward.

The new Ahlgrens bilar sneakers.

Public pressure and protests have pushed Spain’s climate response into the political spotlight.

Wedding wobble wins big

A 42-YEAR-OLD woman has been awarded €72,000 in damages after slipping on a wet hotel floor while attending a wedding in Ireland.

Pamela Kirby, from Co Tipperary, fell on a wet tile outside a lift at Hotel Kilkenny on August 18, 2018, as she made her way to the wedding banquet.

Wearing her own 2012 wedding stilettos, she had just come from a drinks reception with her husband when the accident occurred.

Ms Kirby suffered a dislocated elbow, broken toe bones, and a leg injury requiring a cast. The hotel denied any liquid on the floor, arguing she lost balance due to her five-inch heels. However, Mr Justice Tony O’Connor rejected this, noting Ms Kirby had worn such heels without issue for six years and was entitled to wear them at the event.

The judge reviewed CCTV foota-

ge and found no evidence that other guests noticed the liquid or slipped before Ms Kirby. Her husband also testified that the floor appeared wet when he rushed to help her.

The court concluded that, on the

balance of probabilities, Ms Kirby slipped on unattended clear liquid and that the hotel failed in its duty of care to ensure guest safety. The case raises questions about personal responsibility versus venue accountability.

New EU phone labels

FROM June, every phone and tablet sold across Europe will feature a new, bold energy label on its packaging. This label aims to help consumers make smarter choices by showing how energy-efficient, durable, and repairable their devices are.

The label includes essential information such as the brand and model, a QR code linking to detailed data, and an energy rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It also highlights battery life between charges and the number of drops the device can withstand without damage.

A repairability score, from A to E, shows how easy or difficult it is to fix the device, while the battery lifespan indicates how many charge cycles the battery can endure before its capacity falls below 80 per cent.

Additionally, an IP rating reveals the level of water and dust resistance, with IP44 meaning protection against splashes and dust.

These labels will help you avoid unpleasant surprises like batteries dying quickly or costly repairs. They also encourage ma-

nufacturers to produce longer-lasting, more sustainable devices, reducing electronic waste.

When shopping for your next phone or tablet after June, look beyond style and specs - check

the energy label. It could save you money, hassle, and contribute to a greener planet.

Hotel Kilkenny where Pamela Kirby slipped.

Credit: Instagram @hotelkilkenny

Kathrin Barone

Polish made toys

End-of-Life Companion & Funeral Celebrant

Planning your goodbye with meaning

Tel: +34 656 42 33 85

info@lastinglegacycostablanca.com

POLAND is becoming a major force in production and export of a number of different goods, many of which could be described as luxury so may be influenced by the world economy.

Already, Poland has become well-known for the quality of its Christmas tree baubles and having knocked the cheaper Chinese export market is already the third largest exporter of baubles in Europe (after Netherlands and Germany) and fifth in the world.

Information taken from the International Trade Centre, shows that Poland ranked fourth in Europe for toy production value in 2024, with exports reaching €2.6 billion.

This is another area where disposable income plays a big role and the 2024 figures show a disappointing drop in value of 12 per cent compared to 2023 and this compares to a reported global reduction in toy and game sales of 5 per cent for the same period.

Europe however is the main market for Polish toys and games with Germany, Czech Republic and France being the biggest importer.

One of the problems that manufacturers of toys and games face is the fact that the age limit

for children interested in physical toys in particular continues to drop as computer games and apps become ever more popular with children who have access to mobile phones and tablets at an increasingly younger age.

Who works the hardest in Europe?

ACCORDING to data from Eurostat, Spain sits in the middle of Europe’s working week league table, putting in less time than many Eastern European nations, but more than neighbours like the Netherlands and Austria.

In Greece, full-time employees average 39.8 hours

a week - the highest in the EU. Next are Bulgaria, Poland and Romania, logging around 39 hours, a full hour above the EU average of 36 hours, according to Eurostat’s new ndings.

According to Eurostat’s 2024 data, the Netherlands had the shortest average working week at 32.1 hours, followed by Austria, Germany, and Denmark, with 33.9 hours.

Some sectors have much shorter weeks: teachers average just 32 hours, making education the shortest-working profession in the EU, followed by arts and social work.

Agricultural workers put in an average of 41 hours a week - the longest of any sector, and miners and construction crews aren’t far behind.

Several countries have tested a four-day work week with mixed results - some rms saw higher productivity and morale, while others struggled. Only Belgium has adopted it, letting workers compress full-time hours into four days without reducing total hours.

In 2014, the EU average was 37 hours; now it’s 36a slight drop over the decade. But experts note it’s not just about fewer hours, but better hours.

As conversations about burnout and four-day weeks continue, it’s clear that where you work still shapes how you work. And in some corners of Europe, the clock ticks a little more kindly.

Young children enjoy Polish made toys.

Who works the hardest in Europe? Shocking stats reveal the continent’s busiest - and breeziestworkers.

AGE IN SPAIN, the national nonprofit supporting older English speakers, has launched a €3,500 fundraising campaign to sustain its Friendline telephone companionship service.

Described as a ‘lifeline’ and ‘safe space’, Friendline offers free weekly calls connecting trained volunteers with older expats, providing vital emotional support.

Mavis, a long-time user, shares, “It’s like having an old friend now,” after finding help with residency paperwork. Rob, an expat since 2014, calls the chats “brain food,” easing physical and mental struggles.

Marilyn, living remotely and running an animal foster home, says Friendline combats loneliness, offering motivation and

Friendline

Sometimes just a call is all that’s needed.

a “boost” absent from her local community. She emphasises the need for long-term expat support: “When you’re older, you struggle; a link is vital.”

Age in Spain’s initiative ensures conversation and care for those isolated, regardless of their time in Spain or Spani -

sh fluency. With €3,500, Friendline can continue fostering connection. Mavis notes, “You’ll need help at some stage.”

Donate at www.age inspain.org to learn more or seek support. No one need feel alone. We are all just a call away.

Digital Detox Festival

HIGH up in the mountains of Sauris, in the Friuli Venezia Giulia Italian region, where the air is crisp and time seems to slow right down, the Digital Detox Festival offers more than just a break from screens.

It’s an invitation to really feel, to get back to basics, and to rediscover what it means to be truly present. For three days – from Friday 20 to Sunday June 22 – this immersive experience becomes a haven for the senses, where tech steps aside to make room for the body, silence, deep listening, and real connection with nature.

Each day kicks off gently, with a powerful sense of calm. Early morning yoga in open meadows, quiet walks through the woods, and screen-free strolls set the pace for a natural

kind of awakening. There’s no rush. Just breath, mindful movement and the quiet companionship of the trees.

As the day unfolds, the festival turns into a space for turning inwards. These aren’t just workshops – they’re everyday rituals, carefully crafted to help you reconnect with yourself. There are sound baths, where vi -

brations ripple through every cell, easing the tension that screens build up over time. You’ll also find silent reading corners located outdoors, creative sessions that open up your awareness through art, and nature-based activities for children that nurture curiosity and presence from an early age.

Everyday rituals, carefully crafted to help you reconnect with yourself.

NEWS Travel

Cudillero Bright coastal beauty

CUDILLERO is a picturesque

fishing village on the northern coast of Asturias. Known for its distinctive layout, the village is built on a steep hillside with colourful houses cascading down towards the sea. The port and narrow streets create a striking backdrop that has made Cudillero a favourite destination for those seeking a taste of traditional Asturian coastal life. There is a dedicated campervan parking area just outside the village, with facilities and fresh water, and easy access to the town centre.

Hillside charm

Cudillero’s layout is instantly recognisable, with its brightly coloured houses stacked along the hillside. Fishing still plays an active role in daily life here, and the port’s atmosphere reflects this: small fishing boats, nets, and the rhythms of the harbour lend an authentic touch to every visit.

The main draw is the unique amphitheatre of houses, paired with panoramic views of the harbour and cliffs. The Mirador del Pico viewpoint is the perfect spot to take in the village’s dramatic setting. In summer, consider taking a boat excursion to enjoy the views from a different perspective.

with Hispavan Campers

Paths to wander

Strolling through the village’s winding streets and staircases is a highlight for many visitors. Several well-marked coastal trails start in the village, including sections of the Camino de Santiago. If you’re looking for a lively spot to stop and have a bite to eat, the Plaza de la Marina in the village centre is surrounded by bars and restaurants, and is a lively spot throughout the day.

Gastronomy

Seafood plays a central role in local cuisine, and highlights include caldereta de pescado

(fish stew), and chipirones (baby squid). Make sure to sample the Asturian cider, poured from a height to aerate the drink and bring out its flavour.

Seaside heritage

Cudillero’s history is tied to the sea. Founded as a fishing village, it has kept much of its character over centuries, such as the 16th-century Church of San Pedro and the lighthouse that marks the entrance to the port. The distinctive local dialect, Pixueto, is still spoken by some residents and remains part of the village’s cultural identity.

SUMMARY

Cudillero brings together the quiet rhythms of a fishing community with spectacular coastal scenery and a welcoming atmosphere. Its unique architecture, maritime culture, and fresh cuisine create a snapshot of traditional Asturian life. It’s a rewarding place to visit along the northern Spanish coast - full of colour, character, and the genuine spirit of the sea.

Spain’s surprising tech town

JUZBADO, a tiny town in Salamanca with 189 residents, quietly powers much of Europe thanks to a nearby uranium fuel plant. Over 91 per cent of its registered workforce is employed in the tech sector, making it Spain’s top tech town by percentage. Yet, there are no robots, no fibre-optic internet, and no bright traffic lights in this rural village.

Three kilometres from Juzbado lies ENUSA’s uranium processing plant, Spain’s only facility of its kind. Opened in 1985, it produces nuclear fuel used in reactors across Spain, France, Finland, Belgium, and beyond, supplying 17 per cent of Spain’s electricity. The plant employs 381 workers, but only 23 live in Juzbado. This high-tech facility places the town at the top of Spain’s tech rankings, yet Juzbado remains a quiet place with more festivals than plutonium.

Since 2008, Juzbado has hosted prominent Spanish-speaking poets whose verses are etched into local stone and bronze. Despite this cultural presence, the village has no data centres or coworking spaces - just a bar, a town hall, stone houses, and slow, patchy internet.

Despite its key role in Europe’s nuclear industry, Juzbado is shrinking like much of rural Spain. Young people continue to leave, facing limited jobs and ageing infrastructure. ENUSA contributes about €220,000 annually in taxes, around a third of the municipality’s revenue, but this is not enough to revitalise the community. While Spain plans to phase out nuclear reactors by 2030, Juzbado’s exports grow, supplying 65 per cent of its fuel

abroad and helping reduce some European countries’ dependence on Russian energy.

Juzbado is a town of contrasts: it processes uranium for reactors across Europe but lacks fibre-optic internet; it leads Spain’s tech workforce but cannot retain its youth. Its most visible investment is poetry carved in bronze, reflecting a deeper logic where survival depends not only on GDP but on meaning and continuity.

Most of Juzbado’s high-tech workforce lives here. Credit:

Smoking bans & taxes

THE Spanish government is finalising the anti-smoking law and will soon send it to Congress before it goes to the Senate for final approval. The timeline has not been specified.

The purpose of the new smoking law is to create more smoke-free spaces in places where it makes sense to protect the public’s health, according to the Ministry of Health. The law will also include more taxes on tobacco.

Monica Garcia, the Health Minister, announced the law in an interview with Cadena SER. She said she hopes the law will mark “a turning point” and place Spain at the “forefront of the fight against smoking.”

“For example, smoking will be prohibited in work vehicles, nor will smoking be permitted in educational centres, including outdoor spaces such as school playgrounds or university campuses,” Garcia said. “Sports facilities, communal swimming pools, bus shelters, and outdoor party venues and terraces will also be smoke-free.”

Credits: Carlesmiro/Shutterstock

The health official also stated that the restrictions will apply to traditional tobacco, vapes, and heated tobacco as well.

The Spanish government’s plan also includes funding for smoking cessation treatments from the National Health System, as well as raising taxes on tobacco and all to-

bacco-related products.

A survey by 20 Minutos shows that 61.46 per cent of respondents are in favour of the new smoking ban, while 36.31 per cent feel it’s too restrictive. Two-point-two per cent say they have not made up their mind either way. So far, 15,727 people have responded to the survey.

The new smoking law contemplates banning tobacco in many outdoor locations.

Nonna Moto

SILVANA VISENTIN, at 93 years old, is affectionately known as ‘Nonna Moto’ as she continues to defy age and expectations, crisscrossing Italy in a sidecar with her sons, Ezio and Fulvio Cavazzini on the family Moto Guzzi.

From La Valletta Brianza in Lecco Province, Silvana has become a legend among Italian motorcyclists. Undeterred by rain, bumps in the road, wind, and the cramped conditions of their cherished vintage Mas sidecar, and despite minor ailments, she shows no signs of slowing down, as year after year she embraces the open road with a youthful spirit that belies her years. The sidecar is no ordinary vehicle either. It’s an antique, a family heirloom

designed by Silvana’s father, Domingo, a skilled Mas sidecar frame builder. For Silvana and her sons, it’s a proud symbol of their family heritage. “She wouldn’t trade this for anything,” Ezio says, commenting on her passion for their rides.

Currently, Silvana is taking part in the Circuito del Lario, a historic motorcycle event, where her arrival provokes cheers from the other riders.

Silvana’s love for motorbikes has made her a celebrated figure in the Italian biking community, where she’s revered for her go-getter spirit and zest for life. As she rides through Italy’s scenic routes, ‘Nonna Moto’ proves that age is no barrier to biking adventure.

Mercadona’s summer

FROM June 26 to August 27, Mercadona will keep many of its stores open until 10.00pm. Half an hour later than its usual 9.30pm closing time. The reason is for summer tourism and the tidal wave of shopping it brings, with more than 1,600 stores across Spain and a whopping 26.4 per cent market share. Mercadona is adapting to the seasonal surge and squeezing in some extra sales before sunset.

Yes, Mercadona will open on Sundays

Well, sort of. In a rare move, the famously Sunday-closed chain is opening on Sundays, but only in select tourism zones, including Catalonia, the Valencian Community, Andalucia, Murcia, as well as the Balearic and Canary Islands.

These are special Sunday openings that ope -

rate on reduced hours from 9.00am to 3.00pm, allowing workers to take a break while helping locals and tourists alike. So will the store be open on Sunday? Yes, it will. Seven days a week this summer. To find out if your store is one of them, use Mercadona’s official store locator on their website. Once the month of August winds down, so does this schedule.

From September onwards, the extended hours and Sunday openings will end, and Mercadona will return to its regular timetable. But until then, your late-night tortilla runs or Sunday sangria dash is officially back on the menu.

Silvana Visentin, ‘Nonna Moto’, with son Ezio.

Some Mercadonas will now be open on a Sunday.

Reptile raid

IN a small garden in Nordhausen, Thuringia, authorities discovered a crocodile, a five-metre-long reticulated python, and venomous puff adder snakes. The dangerous reptiles were kept illegally in a makeshift enclosure. The animals were confiscated, and the owner now faces legal consequences for the illegal possession of these exotic creatures.

Power panic

A MOUSE caused a major power outage at the Sana Hospital in Radevormwald, North Rhine-Westphalia, leading to a large-scale emergency response. The rodent reportedly damaged the main power supply, prompting the evacuation of 89 patients during heavy rain. Emergency services, including fire brigade, police, and rescue teams, were deployed to manage the situation.

Blackout blow

EURO PRESS

SWEDEN

Sweet deception

A RECENT DNA analysis in Sweden revealed that most imported honey products on store shelves are adulterated, containing primarily sugar and syrup instead of genuine honey. Out of 40 tested samples, only four, originating from Sweden, were authentic. This discovery has raised concerns about the extent of honey fraud and its implications for both consumers and the industry.

Not really honey.

PORTUGAL NETHERLANDS

A SURVEY by the Portuguese Industrial Association found the April 28 power cut cost Portuguese businesses up to €2 billion, exceeding initial estimates. Nearly all companies suffered financial losses, with 71 per cent failing to meet customer commitments. Most want compensation and hold Spain’s and Portugal’s electricity suppliers responsible.

Money mystery

A PORTUGUESE dermatologist is under investigation after reportedly earning more than €400,000 for just 10 days of work at a public hospital. This figure far exceeds the average annual salary for dermatologists in Portugal, which ranges from approximately €47,720 to €152,300. The case has raised concerns about financial management and accountability in the healthcare system.

NORWAY GERMANY

Princess abroad

PRINCESS INGRID ALEXANDRA of Norway will move to Australia to study international relations and political economy at the University of Sydney. The 21-year-old, second in line to the throne, plans to live on campus starting in August. She recently completed 15 months of military service and follows her mother’s footsteps, who also studied in Australia.

Rising costs

NORWAY’S high food prices are once again under debate, driven by persistent protection for local farmers and tariffs on imported food. While Prime Minister Støre’s government has promised measures to increase competition and transparency in the sector, critics argue these efforts avoid deeper issues. Many believe tariffs and farm subsidies keep prices high for consumers and discourage real change.

Final choice

FRENCH MPs have approved a bill allowing assisted dying for terminally ill patients experiencing constant suffering. The law requires patients to confirm their decision after 48 hours and self-administer the lethal dose, unless incapable. Backed by President Macron, the bill now moves to the Senate, with hopes of becoming law by 2027.

Unusual entrance

FRANCE DENMARK

Wolf attack

A DANISH dog owner lost his 10-year-old Springer Spaniel, Sille, who was found in a field with bite marks indicating a wolf attack. This, along with another similar case in Central Denmark, marks the first confirmed wolf-related dog deaths since wolves returned to Denmark in 2012. Authorities are examining DNA and bite patterns to confirm the cause and consider compensation for the owners.

Buried treasure

A LARGE amount of money was unexpectedly found buried at an old plant nursery in Jebjerg during land clearing. Farmer Kristian Boel Østergaard discovered banknotes scattered near an excavator and alerted police. Authorities suspect the cash may be linked to criminal activity. The exact amount remains undisclosed, but rumours suggest millions of kroner.

IRELAND

Wasted funds

THE National Gallery of Ireland has faced criticism after an X-ray scanner purchased in 2017 for approximately €125,000 remained unused for eight years due to the absence of a suitable room required for safe operation. While parts of the scanner are stored at the gallery, the main component remains with the supplier. The gallery now plans to deploy the scanner as a mobile unit on-site later this year.

Tourist impact

TOURISTS visiting the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, a natural basalt column formation, are damaging the site by putting coins in cracks of the rocks. The coins rust and expand, causing damage and discolouration. The National Trust, which manages this UNESCO World Heritage site, has urged visitors to stop. Removing the coins is expected to cost more than £30,000.

Candy crisis

HARIBO has recalled specific 1kg bags of its Happy Cola F!ZZ sweets in the Netherlands after reports of dizziness. Several people fell ill after eating the sweets, prompting tests that confirmed the presence of cannabis. Only one batch is affected. Authorities are investigating, and consumers are advised to return the product for a refund.

Flower restrictions

DUTCH lily growers now face stricter pesticide regulations after a court ruled they must obtain licences and conduct ecological tests due to health concerns. Authorities are also considering pesticide-free zones near homes to protect residents. This follows previous bans on pesticide use linked to neurological risks, reflecting a push for safer, more sustainable farming.

ITALY

Eco dilemma

LOCAL officials in Tuscany and Romagna are protesting plans to build a wind farm in Badia Tedalda, Alta Valmarecchia, an area believed to be the backdrop of Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’. Rimini mayor Jamil Sadegholvaad argues that the turbines would desecrate a culturally significant landscape. Environmental groups back renewable energy but stress balancing progress with heritage preservation.

Centenarian twins

TWIN siblings Paola and Paolo Anzidei celebrated their 100th birthday together in Bagno a Ripoli, Italy, last week. Born in 1925, they celebrated with a gathering of friends, and were presented a commemorative plaque by local officials. Paolo, who resides in Paterno, hosted the celebration, while Paola, living in a nursing home with her 98-year-old husband, joined the festivities.

A FRENCH man was detained by Russian border guards after crossing illegally from Estonia on a paddle board. The incident occurred at the Narva Reservoir, which separates Russia and Estonia. The man expressed a wish to settle in Russia and revealed a history of psychiatric treatment. The French consulate in St Petersburg is ensuring his protection under the Vienna Convention.

FINLAND

Scooter safety

THE Finnish Parliament has voted in favour of a government bill to tighten rules for electric scooter use. The law raises the minimum age to 15, sets a blood alcohol limit of 0.5 g/l, which is the same limit applied to drivers, and recommends helmet use. These changes are set to take effect before midsummer.

Reindeer disruption

MILITARY drills in Arctic Finland’s Rovajärvi training area are disrupting reindeer herding, causing stress and loss of grazing land. Since Finland joined NATO, joint exercises with Sweden and the UK have intensified, coinciding with critical calving seasons. Reindeer herders and the Sami Parliament demand better consultation and compensation to protect indigenous livelihoods.

BELGIUM

Solar surplus

BELGIUM’S rapid growth in renewable energy has led to a new issue: households with solar panels face fees for surplus electricity sent back to the grid. Many consumers are unaware of contract clauses allowing these charges, often hidden in small print. Consumer Protection Minister Rob Beenders has urged the economic inspection service to examine whether these practices constitute unfair trading.

Not so fast

AN influencer known as adil.gofast has been banned from driving for 17.5 years and fined €25,600 after posting videos of himself driving at speeds up to 250 km/h through Brussels. Investigations revealed he rented sports cars registered in Poland or Germany. Despite previous driving bans and other offences, he continued to post reckless content, leading to his conviction.

Your

For most, Spain is still a fantastic place to live and visit.

Do Spain’s prices make you want to live elsewhere? VOICE

RECENT price increases are affecting many popular destinations, and Spain is no exception. From pricey rentals to steep restaurant bills, people are starting to feel the pinch and, for some, the sunny weather may not be enough to justify the bill. Locals are tightening their belts, travellers are rethinking their holiday plans, and some may even be wondering if it’s time to look elsewhere.

While Spain has a lot to offer, these rising costs are making some think twice. So, we asked our readers whether Spain’s current prices are pushing them towards an alternative destination.

Many readers remain loyal to Spain’s lifestyle. Cristina Nieva is clear: “Hell no! Compared to many other countries the lifestyle in Spain is a gem.”

Angela Edgley says she’s “here to stay,” and shares an interesting perspective: “I go by the price of a cup of coffee. A really good cafe con leche served with a smile at our table costs between €1.20 and €1.40. A cup of coffee flavoured muck that you queue for and pay about £4 for the ‘privilege’ in the UK is how I base life here. There’s nothing better than strolling out, going to one

of our many favourite cafes, sitting down (most days outside) and giving our order, watching the world go by.”

Colin Bland says, “No. I planned to retire here in Spain, and that’s been my best decision ever.” Carole Penman echoes this: “No, I love it here. Spain is my forever home.” Brian Rae writes, “Been here 20 years, the answer is NO.”

Some compare the prices to their home countries, and still find Spain favourable, such as Moira Armitage : “We came here in 2015. Our son and his partner are visiting. Every shop we go in he says stuff is dearer in the UK. We don’t live in a particularly cheap area neither.” Brent Huntley also defends Spain, adding, “The cost of living balances out.”

In conclusion, the vast majority of respondents express their love and loyalty to Spain, highlighting its wonderful lifestyle, weather, and great overall value. While a few acknowledge rising prices, there’s a shared understanding that this is a global trend, not unique to Spain. For most, the benefits outweigh the costs, keeping Spain firmly at the top of the list as a fantastic place to live and visit.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

The magic of childhood

PORTAL DE LA MARINA

shopping centre is pulling out all the stops once again, turning into the goto spot for families in the Marina Alta. This time, they’re putting on a free children’s show packed with some of the most iconic songs from those films we all grew up with - you’ll be singing along before you know it.

The show will run twice - first at 5pm and again at 7pm. Spaces are limited to keep things comfy for everyone, so it’s worth planning ahead.

Entries open until Tuesday June 17.

If you’re part of the ‘Club de los Disfrutones’ (the name translates roughly to ‘The Fun Club’), you could bag yourself VIP tickets. Each member can try for up to three tickets, with entries open from until Tuesday June 17. Just head to the app and sign up through the VIP draw section. All you need to enter

is the app downloaded on your phone. Didn’t get a VIP spot? Don’t worryyou can still enjoy the show from around the stage area, totally free.

And there’s more! Portal de la Marina is also running a cracking giveaway: the chance to win tickets to The Lion King musical in Madrid, plus a hotel stay for two. Not bad for a day out with the children.

Moscatel Day

The idea?

THE Regulatory Council for Alicante Protected Designation of Origin is getting ready to celebrate this local favourite on Monday June 16. It’s a date that’s well marked on the food and wine calendar across the provincebut this year, things kick off early, from Saturday June 7.

To shine a light on both the natural heritage of the moscatel grape and the rich cultural legacy of the Marina Alta region.

Each tasting will showcase the variety of wines that come from the same grape, the moscatel, highlighting not just their flavour but also their environmental and culinary value.

The three Moscatel Day tastings

• Saturday June 7 - Denia Castle

There’ll be a guided tour of the castle itself, including its museums and historic grounds, followed by a tasting of local

Highlighting not just their flavour but also their environmental and culinary value.

mosca-

tel wines. Meet at the castle entrance at 11.30am.

• Saturday June 14 - Benissa old

After a walk through the historic centre and a bit of storytelling around its impressive heritage, the tasting takes place in the Casa dels Andrés i Pere Bigot, a beautiful old house now used by the local university.

• Saturday June 21 - Calpe Calpe will host the final event. Starting at 10.00am from the Casa de Cultura, you’ll explore the old town before heading to Casa Nova.

Rallies for Luca

PEDREGUER’S Parc del Patronat is set to host a heartfelt day of community spirit and family fun on Sunday June 8, all in aid of Luca, a local lad bravely living with IFAP syndrome, a rare condition that demands round-the-clock care and specialist treatment.

The event, titled ‘I Matí Solidari: És per Luca’, is being put together by Pedreguer Town Council and promises a brilliant morning full of games, workshops and activities for all ages. It’s a chance to come together, have a laugh, and show that solidarity can be celebrated too.

What’s on and when:

• Starts: 9.30am

• Wraps up: 1.00pm

To take part, you’ll need to sign up in advance - registrations close at midday on Thursday June 6. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Adults (15 and over): €10

• Children (under 14): €5

• Fila Cero (solidarity donation): open

All the money raised will go directly towards Luca’s care and medical needs.

to any amount you’d like to give

• Solidarity sponsorship: €50 (includes promotion on social media and your logo at the photocall - contact: marina alta@jovempa.org)

All the money raised will go directly towards Luca’s care and medical needs. Your ticket isn’t just entry to a lovely morning - it’s a sign of support, empathy and hope, and a way to help make a real difference for Luca and his family.

Credit: Vinos Alicante DOP

Credit: Grupo Brotons

Credit: Lisandra Jorge/ Credit: Creative Commons

town

Casa Pepa: contemporary soul

LOCATED in a former farmhouse in Pamis (Ondara), Casa Pepa is one of the culinary gems of the Valencian Community.

Founded in 1986 by chef Pepa Romans, this Michelin-starred restaurant, also awarded two Repsol Suns, continues to shine thanks to a proposal that blends tradition, premium local produce and an evolution that remains true to its roots.

From the outset, Casa Pepa’s cuisine has been grounded in the flavours of the Marina Alta: stews, rice dishes and seasonal ingredients treated with absolute respect.

Rubén, current head of the kitchen, sums it up to Euro Weekly News: “The heart of this place is our wood-fired oven. Some dishes go back to Pepa’s time, but there’s been a natural evolution.”

That respect for heritage is now reflected in a refined, living proposal led by French chef Emmanuelle

Baron, who has headed the kitchen at Casa Pepa since 2023. Baron brings a precise blend of classical French technique and the soul of Mediterranean cooking, a fine balance between sophistication and rootedness.

The Riu Rau Menu, available Wednesday to Friday at lunchtime (excluding public holidays),

priced at €59 includes two courses, a rice dish of your choice and dessert - a combination that recently earned Casa Pepa a place in the Michelin Guide’s list of the most affordable starred restaurants in Spain.

Partida Pamis, 7-3003760 - Ondara, Alicante Reservations: +34 965 766 606

The Little Prince with sign language

ON Friday June 14, Benidorm’s Cultural Centre will stage an accessible theatrical reading of The Little Prince, featuring sign language interpreters and the option to experience the show blindfolded. The performance aims to offer an inclusive cultural event where everyone can enjoy theatre on equal terms.

Organised by Benidorm Town Hall’s Department of Culture, in collaboration with the ONCE foundation and the podcast Algo mejor sería peor (‘Something better would be worse’), the dramatised reading of the beloved classic will take place at 7.00pm and is tailored to audiences with visual and hearing impairments.

Directed by Eduardo Gutiérrez and presented by the inclusive theatre com-

pany Telón Corto, the production arrives in Benidorm after a successful run across Castilla-La Mancha. The show features professional voice actors, including a blind actress, reinforcing its commitment to inclusion.

To promote this accessibility, attendees will be invited to wear blindfolds during the performance, experiencing the story as a visually impaired person might. The show will also include two sign language interpreters to support deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences.

Tickets are now available for a symbolic price of €4 (fees included).

ONCE’s Vicente Vázquez described the initiative as “a starting point” for more accessible cultural events in the future.

Today, with Emmanuelle Baron at the helm of the kitchen, Casa Pepa stands as a living legacy.

Credit: Casa Pepa

GET ready - Benidorm’s about to have its liveliest summer yet! From June until October, the town’s putting on a packed schedule of concerts, comedy shows and festivals, with something for everyone - whether you’re into family fun, pop, rock, electronic beats or a good laugh.

Things kick off on Friday June 7 with a proper throwback: Homenaje a la Ruta at the Julio Iglesias Auditorium in Parque de l’Aigüera - a tribute to 90s dance music, organised by the local fiestas commission. It’s all in aid of fundraising for Benidorm’s big October fiestas.

Then it’s laughs and family fun the

Benidorm’s buzzing Free Digital Camp

REGISTRATION is now open for the Campamento Digital organised by Fundación Cibervoluntarios in El Poble Nou de Benitachell, taking place from July 7 to 18 for children aged 12 to 14.

The free in-person activity will be held at the municipal library (Avinguda Alacant, 11) from Monday to Friday, 11.00 to 14.00, with specialised staff and age-appropriate content.

Over the course of 30 hours, participants will learn

following weekJune 13 and 14with comedian David Cepo bringing his hit show No cruces los brazos, and the little ones getting their own treat with Luli Pampin and her musical storybook show, both at the same venue.

July heats up fast: the Reggaeton Beach Festival lands on July 5 and 6 at Ciudad Deportiva Guillermo Amor, with a massive line-up. Then on July 18, comedy queen Martita de Graná is back with ¡Martita sea!, followed by

double trouble on July 19 with comedians Aguilera and Mení in their improvised show Misión Impro-sible.

In August, the much-loved Andalucian band Los Caños are making a comeback on August 16 at the Julio Iglesias.

digital content, browse the internet safely, manage their digital footprint, identify fake news, prevent cyberbull-

key skills.

Applications are open until June 16 and can be submitted by scanning the QR code displayed on the noticeboard at the town hall of El Poble Nou de Benitachell (Carrer Major, 5) or online.

cially recognising the digital skills and knowledge they have acquired within the European digital competence framework.

The Campamento Digital promotes learning in a fun, interactive way, encouraging participants to complete stages and missions to unlock new achievements.

At the end of the course, participants will receive a DigComp certificate, offi-

Campamento Digital is an initiative led by Fundación Cibervoluntarios, a pioneering Spanish NGO with an international scope, dedicated to technological volunteering.

The Campamento Digital promotes learning in a fun and interactive way.

Fun for

IF you’re after something more than just beach days and screen time for the children this summer, Pedreguer’s got a cracking line-up of free activities that mix tech, nature and proper outdoor fun. Whether your child’s into coding or climbing, this is a great way to keep them active, curious and making friends.

Tech Saturdays (ages 10–16)

Every other Saturday morning, young minds can get stuck into creative science and tech at La Pista Espai Cultural. The Robotikids team are running short, practical workshops that cover everything from robotics to virtual reality:

• Saturday June 14Video game coding

• Saturday June 283D modelling and printing

• Saturday July 5Virtual reality

Each session runs

from 10.00 to 11.30 and is completely free - just sign up in advance.

To register, you can pop into the Casa de Cultura, send an email to pedreguerjove@pedre guer.es, or drop a WhatsApp to 644 416 996.

Camping trip (ages 12+)

Fancy a proper break from the usual routine?

There’s a weekend away planned for June 21-22 at the Ecoalbergue La Mola in Novelda. Kayak to Cova Tallada

(ages 18+)

For older teens and young adults, there’s also a guided kayak trip on Saturday June 14 to one of the Costa Blanca’s most spectacular spotsthe Cova Tallada, just off the coast of Dénia.

A guided kayak trip on Saturday June 14 to one of the Costa Blanca’s most spectacular spots.

GANDIA is getting ready for the return of Tasta Gandia, the town’s tastiest food festival, now in its third year. From Thursday 5 to Sunday June 8, the Moll dels Borja on Gan-

Great food, good vibes

dia beach will be buzzing with food, music and fun.

Organised by Gandia City Council and the DestíSa-

for Association, this year’s event is extra special as it’s part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the

International Fideuà de Gandia Competition, kicking things off on the 5th. Gemma Hernández, from DestíSafor, shared the highlights of this year’s programme: live cooking demos by top local chefs, tastings of local produce

like langoustines, striped aubergines and, of course, Gandia’s iconic fideuà. There’ll also be loads of tapas made by local restaurants, all paired with wines, gins and craft beers from the Valencian region.

There’ll also be wine, vermouth and gin tastings, stalls with handmade products like oils, cured meats, honey and chocolate, plus a big food zone run by the DestíSafor crew. And to top it all off, there’ll be live music from local bands to keep the good vibes going all day and night.

Spain’s Wine Legacy

PALOMINO might just be the most chill grape in Spain - the kind that lounges under the Andalucian sun and doesn’t mind being turned into sherry, vinegar, or the odd still wine. It’s pale, it’s mild, and it’s definitely not trying to impress you with perfume or drama.

But don’t let that relaxed vibe fool you - this grape has more pseudonyms than a 90’s spy.

In Jerez, the heartland of sherry, it goes by Palomino Fino, which sounds elegant enough to be your grandmother’s favourite ballroom dance partner.

Hop over to the Canary Islands, and suddenly it’s Listán Blanco, a name

that makes it sound like a minor character in a telenovela. Older texts even refer to it as Jerez, named after the place rather than the grape - because in Spain, why not?

Despite the name changes, Palomino stays true to itself: light, easygoing, and famously neutral - which makes it the perfect blank canvas for sherry’s magic (or madness, depending on your opinion of fino).

So next time you sip something dry and nutty from Andalucia, raise a glass to Palomino - the grape that knows who it is, even if no one else can agree on what to call it.

martha@marthasvineyard.es

Martha Ardila, Sommelier at Martha’s Vineyard Moraira

There’ll also be wine, vermouth and gin tastings.

Credit: Tasta Gandia

Local legends

ON Saturday June 7 at 8.30pm, l’Alfas del Pi will host one of the town’s most anticipated eventsthe 10th annual COEMPA Business Awards Gala. It’s a warm, feel-good evening that recognises the hard work, dedication and success of local businesses that help make this corner of the Costa Blanca such a vibrant place to live.

This year’s spotlight falls on three local legends: Supermercado Costa Blanca, Raúl Wals Insurance, and Exialoe, all of whom have made a big mark in the community - whether through expat-friendly service, sustainable innovation, or natural wellness products. The event is free and open to everyone. Expect music, heartfelt speeches, and a few surprises along the way. Hosted by Nicolás Van Looy, the gala promises to be an eve-

ning full of celebration and community spirit. Who’s being honoured?

Supermercado Costa Blanca has been a household name in l’Alfàs since 1988, long before many of us had ever heard of the

town. Raúl Wals Insurance is another familiar name, especially among Northern European expats. Based in Albir since 2002, Raúl and his team have been helping clients find the right cover for everything

Art with a punch

SOMETHING powerful is coming to l’Alfa del Pi. On Friday June 6 at 7pm, the Espai Cultural Escoles Velles will host the opening of a striking new show by Dado Botta, a Uruguayan artist whose work blends activism, symbolism and raw emotional punch.

Botta isn’t your average painter. A visual artist, graphic designer, muralist and outspoken LGTBI rights activist, his work dives deep into themes like identity, spirituality, coexistence and collective struggles. Expect bold colours, layered textures and messages that hit close to home - all wrapped in a distinctive style that’s both personal and political.

Running until June 27, the exhibition turns the gallery space into a place of open dialogue. Botta’s pieces don’t just hang on wallsthey speak out, inviting visitors to reflect, question and engage. Whether it’s through recycled materials or unexpected formats, each

work encourages us to take an active role in imagining a fairer, more inclusive society. The show is organised by the Department for Equality and Inclusive Policies at the l’Alfas del Pi Town Hall, with support from LGTBI Mari-

na Baixa. It’s all part of the town’s ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and using culture as a tool for social change. So if you’re in the area, mark your calendar - this is one opening night you won’t want to miss.

from health to home to car insurance.

Then there’s Exialoe, a real homegrown success story. Founded in the ‘90s, this family-run business specialises in natural aloe vera-based health and beauty products.

The event is free and open to everyone.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Alfas del Pi

The show is organised by the Department for Equality and Inclusive Policies.

Credit: Ayuntamiento L’Alfas del Pi

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Airbnb crackdown

SPAIN has ordered Airbnb to remove over 65,000 holiday rental listings for violating regulations, claiming missing licence numbers and unclear ownership details. Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy wants to curb the housing crisis blamed on short-term rentals. Airbnb plans to appeal, questioning the ministry’s authority.

Summer workforce

EL JAMÓN supermarkets plan a 20 per cent staff increase for summer, reaching 4,700 employees in Huelva, Cadiz, and Malaga. New hires will support seasonal supermarket opening by late June, while some staff relocate to coastal stores, improving service and local economies.

BYD drop

SHARES of Chinese electric carmaker, BYD, fell in May after announcing 20-34 per cent price cuts on batteries. The move, aimed at boosting growth over profitability, also impacted Chinese EV makers like Li Auto and Geely, as BYD strengthens its market leadership.

Martini’s back

BACARDI is bringing back Martini’s premium image in line with Spain’s ‘tardeo’ trend, as the aperitif market grows 5 per cent, reaching €270 million. A new, eco-friendly Martini bottle, reduces emissions and optimises logistics. ‘Martini Atrévete a Ser’ campaign and Terrazza Martini events launch summer 2025.

Freelance debt

IN Spain, 25 per cent of freelancers (796,000) owe Social Security for underpaying in 2023, following a shift to income-based payments. The Ministry reviewed 3.7 million cases, issuing 1.6 million adjustments. Over two million freelancers faced no changes. The government aims to address disparities through ongoing reforms.

is the average amount a citizen of Spain has to spend on holidays per year.

Business angelic

SPAIN’S venture capital sector is betting on a rebound in 2025, driven by lower interest rates and available capital, though early-stage startup funding remains a cautious area after many fingers were burnt in previous tech booms, according to a recent study by the Spanish Association of Business Angels Networks (Aeban) and IESE’s Business Angels Network.

Their report notes newly found resilience after 2024’s cautious investments, with Spain outperforming most other European markets. The study shows an 8 per cent drop in European venture capital volume and a 16 per cent decline in actual deal numbers. Yet, Spain showed stronger resilience, with institutional venture capital growing 3 per cent through larger, late-stage rounds exceeding €10 million. That said, early-stage investments faced significant contractions.

Business angels played a crucial role in adapting to a complex economic and technological landscape through professionalised investment processes and sector specialisation.

In 2024, they invested an average of €95,525 per startup, favouring health tech (37 per cent), food/agri-

Bizums monitored

BEGINNING January 1, 2026, Spain’s Tax Agency will gain full access to all Bizum transactions involving businesses and self-employed people, regardless of amount. The already approved act eliminates the previous €10,000 threshold for banks to report Bizum transactions, intending to curb tax fraud with the platform’s growing use in commerce, hospitality, and services.

In 2024, Bizum transactions dou-

bled for the fifth consecutive year, with 58 million transfers totalling €3.107 billion, averaging €53.56 per transaction. The Tax Agency’s move targets undeclared income, as some businesses have used Bizum to bypass the €1,000 cash payment limit, according to Cristina Godín of Sincro consultancy.

Ignacio Arráez, vice president of the Spanish Association of Tax Advisors, welcomes the anti-fraud me-

Retiring at 70 Lagarde eyes WEF

CHRISTINE LAGARDE, president of the European Central Bank (ECB), is reportedly considering heading the World Economic Forum (WEF) after her term, according to the Financial Times. Sources claim she discussed succeeding WEF founder Klaus Schwab, who resigned last month amid misconduct allegations. However, ECB sources insist Lagarde, whose non-renewable term ends October 31, 2027, is committed to completing her mandate. Previously, Lagarde served as IMF managing director (2011–2019) and French finance minister.

DENMARK has become the first European nation to set its retirement age at 70, now with rising life expectancy (81.7 years). With overwhelming parliamentary support, the reform follows a 2006 welfare package tying pension age to demographic trends. However, public unease grows, with critics like some calling it ‘unrealistic’ for manual labourers. Trade unions and left-wing parties oppose the three-year increase from 67, already among the world’s highest. While over half of Danes favour working past retirement, gradually reducing hours, concerns continue about politicians’ pensions, allowing retirement at 60 for some MPs, including Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

culture (23 per cent), and business software (20 per cent). Over 80 per cent dabbled in co-investment, diversifying risk and accessing larger opportunities.

Despite a cautious 2024 marked by macroeconomic uncertainty, interest rate cuts since mid-year have encouraged modest recovery.

asure but warns of overreach, when he mentioned that monitoring even small €5 transactions may burden businesses disproportionately.

Blackout blame

THERE were warning signs of the massive blackout that hit Spain in April 2025 much earlier than claimed despite Red Eléctrica’s claim of no prior anomalies.

Systems detected voltage irregularities on Iberdrola’s 66,000-volt grid at 11.01am, peaking at 73,600 volts. Automatic disconnections occurred at 11.09 and 11.46, with a second shutdown at 12.33 coinciding with the national ‘zero energy’ event. Reports came in of oscillations for two weeks before. With damages estimated over €1 billion, a dispute rages between utilities and Red Eléctrica over who’s responsible for Spain’s worst-ever blackout.

SPAIN’S government has proposed a law to curb nonEU residents’ property purchases, blamed for soaring housing prices. From 2026, a new ‘Complementary State Tax’ will double the cost of homes for non-resident buyers, applying a 100 per cent tax on the property’s price, offset by existing regional taxes. Excluded are businesses and professionals. The measure, sparking debate among British investors (8.7 per cent of foreign buyers), aims to cool the market, though non-residents represent only 1.6 per cent of transactions.

MAJOR US banks are exploring cryptocurrency ventures through pilot programmes and limited trading, encouraged by regulatory support, according to industry executives. While strict rules previously limited their involvement, banks remain cautious, hesitant to lead due to potential regulatory shifts. If one bank succeeds without issues, others may follow with small-scale projects. JPMorgan Chase’s CEO, Jamie Dimon, dismissed significant expansion or crypto custody. Meanwhile, President Trump’s executive order establishes a budget-neutral bitcoin reserve, hoping to stockpile digital currencies without taxpayer costs.

BANCO Santander has introduced ‘Beyond Wealth’, an independent advisory unit targeting ultra-high-net-worth clients with assets likely above €20 million. Led by Carmen Gutiérrez, formerly of Julius Baer, and Sol Moreno de los Ríos, previously with CaixaBank, the unit rebrands Santander’s Private Real Estate Advisory & Management. Santander’s aggressive recruitment from competitors like CaixaBank and Julius Baer, along with a new Madrid centre for Latin American wealth, reinforces its private banking push.

Presenting the project.

Instant online payment.

Redrow 458,90 460,42 458,70 39,23K

Beazley 944,00 944,00 940,00 4,7K

Berkeley 4.210,0 4.210,0 4.204,0 933

BP 361,60 363,40 360,30 484,36K

British American Tobacco 3.334,0 3.334,1 3.310,0 47,05K

2.364,7 2.372,0 2.358,0 11,32K

159,40 159,45 158,66 86,63K

HBC AG 3.870,0 3.870,0 3.858,0 2,43K

2.602,00 2.605,00 2.577,00 38,48K

Group 288,40 288,40 285,60 49,04K

Intl 3.053,0 3.056,0 3.052,0 1,82K

4.616,0 4.632,0 4.606,0 2,65K

EURO

EUR/GBP: Down from £0.85 to £0.84

EUR/USD: Down from $1.14 to $1.13

The euro came under pressure in recent weeks, with a more optimistic market mood and mixed Eurozone data leading the single currency to retreat from its recent highs.

Also undermining EUR sentiment was some political uncertainty in Germany, after Friedrich Merz’s initial setback in his path to becoming German Chancellor, highlighting political divisions within the Eurozone’s largest economy.

The euro recouped some ground in the second half of May thanks to its negative correlation with the US dollar, although these gains were tempered by weak Eurozone PMIs.

The euro could remain under pressure as we enter June if the European Central Bank (ECB)

Currency outlook: Euro undermined by German political jitters, US dollar rebounds on hawkish Fed

delivers another interest rate cut at its next policy meeting.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Up from €1.16 to €1.18

GBP/USD: Up from $1.33 to $1.34

Trade in the pound proved a little choppy over the past month, with mixed UK economic releases infusing volatility into the currency throughout May.

Elsewhere, the optimism surrounding the UK’s new trade

agreements with India, the US and the EU has offered support to Sterling in recent weeks.

The Bank of England’s (BoE) latest rate decision also proved positive for the pound. While the BoE cut rates, GBP investors were surprised by the hawkish tilt to the bank’s forward guidance.

GBP investors will closely monitor upcoming UK data ahead of the BoE’s June meeting. If the data encourages the bank to move away from its

quarterly rate cuts, Sterling is likely to strengthen.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Unchanged at £0.74

USD/EUR: Up from €0.87 to €0.88

The US dollar mounted a comeback in May, with the currency clawing back a portion of its recent losses.

A trimming of US rate cut bets following a hawkish policy statement from the Federal

Reserve helped to drive this recovery, as did the announcement of a 90-day US-China trade truce.

However, the US dollar came under renewed pressure as we entered the second half of the month - even striking a fresh three-year low against the pound – after Moody’s stripped the US of its triple-A credit rating, sparking a fresh rise in US Treasury yields.

USD investors will closely watch upcoming US data for any additional signs of a recession. At the same time, US trade developments may continue to infuse volatility into the US dollar.

Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

Nothing we can do

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

‘POLITICIANS come and go but governments go on forever’. Didn’t this recent quote hit the nail squarely on the appendage?

As I have observed in this blurb on a number of occasions, the whole political masquerade is merely an illusion. Because we freely elect our politicians, we are under the almost laughable impression, that we also in some way control our own future. Ha! Pure naïve bunkham.

We are all players in a subversive system implemented by the shadowy billionaires that are our true masters.

A preconceived plan to keep us all happy and firmly convinced that our democracy and ‘freedom’ are so important to us they are ultimately worth dying for.

The truth is, the more chaotic and precarious our societies become, the more the money manipulators like it. Keeps us all nicely occupied

ya see. I was recently speaking to a member of the Home Office and asked him if a newly elected government made any difference to the workings of his department. With a barely detectable smirk he told me that, apart from a few small ‘irritations’ at the outset, nothing changes at all, the department simply carries on just as before.

In fact, he went on to say that many new politicians are so inexperienced, they actually ask the department to advise them on what procedures they should follow.

This is precisely what happens with the world’s faceless financiers, they simply carry-on business as usual, irrespective of governments or politicians and they all cover each other’s backs. Remember that Khashoggi, embassy murder affair?

Did you honestly think the King of Saudi Arabia, (Family worth an estimated 1.4 trillion dollars!) would have his position threatened in any way by the actions of these assassins? These people are a law unto themselves, an elite ‘club’ of secrecy and scheming who don’t

care what government or dictator happens to be in power, just as long as they don’t threaten their own exalted positions.

Among the many disruptions to society, these faceless few revels in war, it’s a wonderful source of income and keeps the participants thoroughly occupied and out of their hair.

They are no doubt also revelling in all the recent Euro subterfuge which is also keeping enormous numbers of the peasants extremely busy. It’s all a charade and they the all-powerful puppet masters.

Their aim is to make us fear life itself. They want us to hate ‘the other’. They love confusion.

They want us to practise aggression.

They seek to divide us all. With division comes chaos and chaos is their greatest ally. And there ain’t a durn thing either you or I can do about it.

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Andrea Bocelli wows

THE blind Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli is currently on a world tour to celebrate his 30th anniversary as a professional singer.

On May 31, he appeared in a sell-out concert at the Leiria Municipal Stadium to what is believed to be the largest audience to attend a classical concert in Portugal.

This was the tenor’s fourth concert held in Portugal following a sell-out at the Altice Arena in 2017, the Estádio Cidade de Coimbra in 2021 and the Altice Arena in 2023 and by all accounts the concert was excellent. Accompanied by a symphony orchestra consisting of 80 musicians and a choir with 70 voices, he entertained the audience of 25,000 with a number of his (and their) favourite pieces of classical music. Although when compared to pop or rock concerts, the attendance wasn’t that large, the Leiria Council made sure that safety was uppermost, laying on video surveillance, drones, and the presence of security forces, firefighters and civil protection, both at the show venue and in the surrounding area, including the Leiria Fair.

The area of the stadium was boxed off so that private cars had no access, but there were a range of free shuttle services as well as taxis available for those who chose not to walk to the event.

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

An earlier concert in the 30th anniversary tour.

Blooming benefits

LAVENDER, long cherished for its calming scent, offers a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond traditional aromatherapy. While its essential oil is well known for soothing stress and promoting restful sleep, lavender also brings a host of practical uses into everyday life.

Shutterstock/anmbph

The frizz factor

In skincare, lavender is a gentle yet effective ally. Its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it helpful in treating minor burns, insect bites, and acne-prone skin. It can also promote wound healing by encouraging healthy skin regeneration, making it a popular ingredient in balms and creams.

Lavender is also surpri-

singly useful in the home. Dried sprigs can deter moths and insects when tucked into wardrobes or drawers, adding a fresh scent as they protect clothing. Its fragrance, subtle yet enduring, can also be used to refresh linens or create a calming atmosphere in any room. Some even use lavender in baking and cooking, where it lends a fragrant twist to cakes, biscuits, and even savoury dishes. Altogether, lavender is far more than a pretty plant - it’s a versatile, multi-tasking natural remedy with everyday appeal.

FRIZZY hair is a common concern in the world of health and beauty, often caused by a lack of moisture and an imbalance in hair’s natural structure. When hair is dry or damaged, the cuticle (outer layer) lifts, allowing moisture from the air to enter. This causes strands to swell, leading to that fluffy, unruly look many try to avoid. People with naturally curly or wavy hair are more prone to frizz because their hair’s structure makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the strand, resulting in dryness.

Environmental factors also play a role such as humidity, heat styling, and harsh hair products can strip hair of moisture and worsen frizz. Even over-washing can leave hair vulnerable. Combatting frizz starts with hydration. Use sulfate-free shampoos and rich conditioners to nourish your hair without stripping it. Incorporating a weekly deep-conditioning mask can help lock in moisture. Minimise heat styling and always use a heat protectant if you must style with tools. Finishing products like anti-frizz serums or leave-in creams can also smooth and seal the hair cuticle.

With the right routine and products, frizz can go from frustrating to fabulously controlled.

Hot stuff

WHEN temperatures rise and the air turns sticky, keeping make-up in place can feel like a losing battle. Humidity and sweating often lead to smudged eyeliner, shiny skin, and foundation that seems to disappear by midday. But with the right products and techniques, you can maintain a fresh, polished look even in the warmest weather.

Start with a lightweight primer that smooths the skin and helps your make-up grip better. Look for one that controls shine without clogging pores. For foundation, opt for a long lasting formula with a matte or natural finish.

Avoid heavy cream textures which tend to slide off in humid conditions. Tinted moisturisers or mineral powders can also work well, offering coverage without suffocating the skin.

Waterproof mascara is essential for preventing smudges, and a gel or pencil eyeliner with strong staying power will help keep your eyes defined. For cheeks and lips, cream blushes and stains often perform better than powders, giving a healthy flush that lasts.

Finally, a good setting spray can lock everything in place and refresh your look throughout the day. With a few smart choices, you can keep your make-up looking flawless whatever the weather.

Written in the stars

ASTROLOGY suggests that each star sign is reflected not just in personality, but in facial features too. While everyone is unique, your sign may highlight certain natural traits that others find instantly recognisable. Aries often shows strong brows and a lively, confident expression. Their features are bold and full of energy. Taurus is known for a soft, rounded face with smooth skin and steady, peaceful eyes. Gemini typically has expressive eyes and quick, animated features that reflect a sharp mind. Cancer tends to

have gentle eyes and a warm smile, with softer lines that give a caring look. Leo stands out with defined cheekbones and a broad, expressive face, full of warmth and confidence. Virgo often appears with clean, refined features and a thoughtful, composed expression. Libra is associated with natural symme-

try, balanced features and a graceful appearance. Scorpio usually has deep set eyes and a magnetic gaze, giving an intense and unforgettable look. Sagittarius often has a wide smile and open features that reflect a love for life. Capricorn shows strength in angular lines and a serious, focused expression. Aquarius is known for distinctive features and a curious, intelligent look. Pisces often displays soft, dreamy eyes and a gentle, artistic face. The stars may shape you more than you think.

Tiptop tongue Beat the heat

YOUR tongue can reveal a surprising amount about your overall health. From its colour and texture to the presence of coatings or patches, your tongue often reflects what is going on inside your body.

A healthy tongue should be pink, slightly moist, and covered in small bumps called papillae. A white coating might suggest poor oral hygiene, dehydration, or even a fungal infection like oral thrush. Redness or a smooth surface could point to vitamin deficiencies, particu-

larly B12 or iron. A yellow tinge may indicate digestive issues, while deep grooves or cracks might be harmless but are worth mentioning to a dentist. Keeping your tongue healthy is simple but important. Brush it gently with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and prevent bad breath. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

SPAIN is experiencing its first ‘tropical’ nights of the year, as minimum temperatures remain above 20°C, even after sunset. The Spanish weather agency

AEMET reports that this is particularly intense in coastal Andalucia and the Guadalquivir Valley, where temperatures hover around 20 degrees until dawn.

and avoid tobacco, which can damage taste buds and increase the risk of oral disease.

Regular dental checkups are also essential, as your dentist can spot early signs of illness through tongue changes. By paying attention to this often-overlooked part of the mouth, you can support both oral health and your overall well-being.

These hot, humid nights, known as ‘noches tropicales,’ can make sleeping difficult. While air conditioning is not always an option, there are several practical ways to stay cool.

Firstly, switch from memory foam to buckwheat or cooling gel foam pillows, which disperse heat and lower neck temperatures by up to 10 degrees. Use sheets made from cotton, bamboo or silk with a low thread count to improve airflow. Avoid memory foam mattresses, opting instead for latex or pocket-sprung models. A bowl of ice in front of a fan can mimic the effects of air conditioning. The Egyptian method - dampening a towel in cold water and sleeping under it - can also be effective. Taking a warm shower before bed helps your body regulate its temperature, while pressing a frozen flannel to pulse points such as the neck and wrists can provide immediate relief.

Dealing with dementia Robotic surgery

THE Rey Juan Carlos University Hospital in Móstoles, Madrid, has performed more than 3,000 robotic surgeries.

The hospital began its Robotic Surgery Programme in 2012 with the Da Vinci system. In the early years, it performed ‘between 65 and 100’ operations annually, but in 2024 alone, the hospital carried out ‘nearly 550,’ and expects that figure to grow to ‘nearly 650 by the end of 2025.’

With the addition of a second robot five months ago, the hospital became the second public facility in Madrid to operate two teams using the latest robotic technology.

The hospital says robotic surgery provides ‘greater precision and a minimally invasive approach’, which translates to ‘smaller incisions, less bleeding and need for transfusions, and less postoperative pain’.

LGN Medios adds that robotic surgery ‘improves clinical outcomes and patient recovery’, noting that the average surgical time has been reduced

from ‘275 minutes in 2013 to less than 184 today’.

The hospital is currently using the Da Vinci Xi model. According to LGN Medios, the Xi system ‘offers an augmented 3D view, eliminates the surgeon’s physiological tremor, and allows for control of up to four robotic arms with millimetre precision’.

Each robotic arm enables the surgeon to manage ‘up to three instruments’ and ‘a 360° rotation’.

The technique has been applied across multiple departments including urology, gynaecology, and digestive surgery.

DEMENTIA is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities that is severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. When faced with the signs of dementia, it can be life-changing and frightening.

If you suspect you or a loved one has symptoms of dementia, get a proper diagnosis from your doctor. They may refer you to a neurologist who will be able to identify where the problem is. Your doctor will then be able to refer you to a day centre for a programme of cognitive exercises or even simply a change in diet. They may also organise home help with tasks such as cleaning and shopping.

med, you may wish to consider granting power of attorney to a family member you trust for the peace of mind of yourself and your family. Ask your doctor about how to apply for official recognition of the condition, as that will make things easier for you later on.

Once a diagnosis has

A social worker may visit you at home to

assess your living conditions and advise what could be done to make it safer and more suitable for someone living with dementia.

Depending on the geographical region, help in your own language, or at least in English, may well be available. Age in Spain (formerly Age Concern) can offer help and advice on the subject of dementia.

Dementia can be life-changing and frightening.

Rey Juan Carlos University Hospital.

RENTING out your holiday home in Spain can be a great income source, but it comes with strict legal requirements. With tourism on the rise, regional governments have introduced tighter regulations, and in most cases, a licence is mandatory before advertising or renting your property.

Holiday rentals: A regulated activity

Short-term rentals - defined differently across regions - are classified as a commercial activity and are subject to specific regional rules. Each Autonomous Community (eg, Andalucia, Balearic Islands, Valencia) has its own licensing process and standards.

Is a licence required?

In most areas, yes. You must register your property with the local tourism authority before listing it on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. Once registered, you’ll receive a licence

number which must be included in all ads. Failing to comply can lead to significant fines.

Here’s a brief summary by region:

• Andalucia: Register with the Registro de Turismo de Andalucia. Your property must meet safety and quality standards.

• Balearic Islands: Highly regulated. Some areas have licence caps or moratoriums.

• Catalonia: Requires a HUT (Habitatge d’Ús Turístic) licence and compliance with technical standards.

• Madrid: Registration and adherence to safety and accessibility rules are mandatory.

• Murcia: Registration with the regional tourism registry and a declaración responsable is needed.

• Comunidad Valenciana: Apply for a certificado de compatibilidad urbanística from your town hall before registe-

ring.

New requirements in 2025

• From July 1, 2025: A new national property registry code

compliance and traceability.

• From April 3, 2025: Communities of owners (comunidades de propietarios) can legally limit or ban holiday rentals. You’ll need written approval from the community to apply for or renew a rental licence - particularly important for apartment buildings.

Tax and legal responsibilities

Rental income must be declared in Spain, even for non-residents. You may also face local taxes (eg, tourist and garbage fees). Legal duties include guest registration, invoicing, and adhering to noise and occupancy rules.

from the Colegio de Registradores will be required. This unique identifier must be used in online listings and ensures

Get legal sdvice Holiday rental laws in Spain are complex and ever-changing. At My Lawyer in Spain, our English-speaking legal team can help you navigate licences, community permissions, and tax duties.

Europe’s largest LEGO event

EUROPE’s largest LEGO exhibition is back in Lisbon, and it’s bigger than ever.

From June 21 to September 28, Cordoaria Nacional will host ‘Invasion of the Giants’, featuring more than 100 giant LEGO models built from more than 10 million bricks.

Spread across 2,000 square metres, the exhibition is divided into themed zones inspired by cinema, architecture, science, art and video games. Highlights include a three-metre-tall Star Wars Tie Fighter made from 250,000 pieces and a seven-metre-high replica of the Twin Towers, surrounded by dozens of miniature buildings using over a million LEGO bricks.

If you visited the exhibition in 2021, this year brings a fresh twist. All the models are completely new, offering something different for returning visitors and newcomers alike.

There will also be hands-on areas for families. The Little One’s Station is perfect for younger children, Besties World offers a colourful and creative play space, and the Fun Zone is designed for older kids and adults to enjoy.

Alongside the models, the event includes the 3D Trick Gallery, home to Portugal’s largest collection of 3D images. It’s an interactive space for fun photos and selfies, with creative backdrops and phone holders. Tickets range from €9 to €18.75 depending on the date and age group, and the exhibition is open daily from 10am to 9pm. Tickets are available online at expopiezaslego. es.

LEGO giants return to Lisbon this summer.

Asdis Olafsdottir, from Iceland - Speaking European INTERVIEW

ASDIS OLAFSDOTTIR, an Icelandic artist now based in Riviera, Mijas, has brought her vibrant oil-on-canvas works to Costa del Sol after gaining acclaim in Norway. Known for figurative paintings blending natural tones with bold colour splashes, her art mirrors the region’s dynamic environment. Planning a Spanish exhibition, Asdis shared insights with Euro Weekly News

What drew you to southern Spain?

“I’ve been here nearly two years.

The climate’s warmth and light are invigorating, and easy flights to Norway, where my family lives, were a big draw.”

How has the am biance influenced your work?

“The sea, nature, and expressive culture here inspire experimentation. This environment encourages deeper emotional connections, which flow into my paintings.”

Any challenges adapting to Spanish culture?

“Adapting has been mostly positive, but

I haven’t mastered Spanish yet. Paperwork and daily interactions can be tricky without fluency.”

Has Spain shaped your art?

“Definitely. My earlier work used cooler, muted tones. Here, I embrace richer, brighter colours and sharper contrasts, reflecting deeper personal feelings.”

Will you return to Iceland?

“Iceland’s in my blood, and Norway shaped me, but I’ve never been tied to one place. Spain feels right for now.”

Discover Asdis’s art on Instagram (@ artby_asdis) and her website (asdis.no).

Pay to enter Aldi?

A PILOT programme at an Aldi supermarket in Greenwich, London, charging a £10 (€12) entry fee is stirring controversy.

Part of Aldi’s ‘Shop & Go’ model, the fee is deducted from purchases or refunded if no items are bought, but it has raised concerns about privacy, accessibility, and jobs.

The system eliminates checkouts, using AI-powered cameras and sensors to track items and charge customers’ accounts as they leave, aiming to cut queues and boost efficiency.

However, critics highlight risks to data privacy from surveillance technology and potential billing errors. Many shoppers find the refundable fee disruptive to everyday shopping. The initiative also sparks fears of job losses, as automation could reduce the need for staff, drawing criticism from unions warning of a

broader retail automation trend.

Consumer experts note a ‘digital divide’, as the tech-heavy system may exclude elderly or low-income shoppers less comfortable with technology. A similar approach was tried years ago by an Australian sportswear store, charging $100 to deter customers from trying on ski boots before buying cheaper online.

Aldi’s trial reflects retail’s push for innovation, but balancing technology with customer comfort

France to scrap LEZs

FRANCE’S National Assembly voted 98-51 to abolish Low Emission Zones (LEZs), dealing a blow to President Emmanuel Macron’s environmental and net-zero goals, aligned with European Commission recommendations.

Supported by some Renaissance party members and conservative opposition, the bill, proposed by National Rally’s Pierre Meurin, awaits Senate approval and may face Constitutional Council challenges, potentially delaying its enactment.

Since 2019, LEZs in 15 high-pollution cities, expanded this year to urban areas with over 150,000 residents, banned pre-1997 vehicles and required post1997 cars to display Crit’Air stickers based on emissions. Aimed at reducing air pollution, the zones faced a public backlash. Motoring groups like 40 Millions

d’Automobilistes called them ‘economically discriminatory’, arguing they burden financially restricted drivers.

Conservative Republicans praised the vote as freeing citizens from ‘punitive ecology’, with campaigner Alexandre Jardin telling Le Figaro that ‘ecology has become a sport for the rich’. Green and Socialist MPs, who favoured keeping LEZs, criticised the decision. Green Senator Anne Souyris warned it could ‘kill hundreds of thousands’, while Socialist MP Gérard Leseul said it weakens France’s climate pledges.

The move highlights resistance to strict environmental policies, with some cities minimally complying by creating small restricted zones or installing inactive technology. The Senate’s decision will be pivotal for France’s environmental trajectory.

and worker protections remains challenging. As Greenwich tests ‘Shop & Go’, its success or failure could shape the future of grocery shopping, or serve as a cautionary tale.

Asdis Olafsdottir in her studio.

How long before staffless supermarkets are the norm?

Credit: Aldi

Credit: OA

Choose AI or homes

IRELAND has been warned it may have to choose be tween powering artificial intelligence (AI) and building new homes, as energy shortages hit critical levels. Oonagh Buckley, secretary general at the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, said existing data centres have already consumed all available spare electricity capacity.

In a direct warning, Buckley told reporters:

“We’re having to even think about prioritising what is the social need of the demand - is it housing or is it AI?”

This statement has sparked serious political debate, as Ireland wrestles with balancing digital growth and basic public needs during a housing crisis.

According to the Social Democrats, data centres already account for a massive share of Ireland’s electricity usage:

• 21 per cent of total national electricity

• 50 per cent in the Dublin–Meath region alone

Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore said this demand is threatening energy security and undermining Ireland’s clima-

“This is simply unsustainable,” she said in a statement shared on SocialDemocrats.

ie.

She warned:

“Such a scenario would be unthinkable in the middle of our worst ever housing crisis.”

Not all officials agree with the urgency of Buckley’s assessment.

Minister Jack Chambers criticised the framing of the issue as a strict either-or choice. He said the comments ‘oversimplified’ a more complex challenge.

Ireland’s Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is expected to release new guidance in the coming weeks that could introduce caps or restrictions on future data centre developments.

This ruling may determine whether energy resources will be steered toward social needs like housing or economic drivers like tech and AI.

As global AI adoption accelerates, so does the demand for data storage and computing power, yet Ireland’s housing and climate pressures continue to mount.

Air passenger rights

A CITIZEN’S ‘Say NO to losing passenger rights’ was launched against the European Union on proposals to water down passenger rights being discussed behind closed doors in Brussels, putting at risk Europe’s claim to having the best flyer-friendly skies worldwide.

The petition on Change.org has 21,000 signatures, which is extremely shy of the one million signatures from at least seven of the bloc’s countries now required by the EU before entering a ‘European Citizens Initiative’.

Patrick Gibbels, from Brussels and a member of APRA, a non-profit organisation founded in 2017 by ‘passionate passenger rights advocates from across the EU’, launched the petition.

“A dangerous overhaul of EU regulations

is underway, which will strip away passenger rights and lead to even more flight delays,” said Gibbels, which says it collaborates with policy makers, airlines and airports to put air passenger rights at the top of the agenda.

The petition says that more delays and less compensation is what’s at stake.

Authorities currently allow airlines a three-hour delay before requiring passenger compensation, but if the EU261 law passes, ‘flights will be allowed to arrive five, nine, or even 12 hours late’, the petition claims.

Airlines will also no longer have to offer basic assistance, such as meals or accommodation, nor will they have to pay in the event of a workers’ strike or other delays that are their fault, the petition reads.

A petition is out for citizens who want to block new airline rules that water down passenger rights.

Oonagh Buckley.

Credit: X @DSGJustice

Germany eyes digital tax From tradition to transition

IF you’re online, scrolling through Facebook or using Google, you’re at the heart of Germany’s latest political debate. The government is considering a new 10 per cent tax on earnings generated by digital giants like Google and Facebook within Germany. This move could significantly impact millions of internet users.

Germany’s culture minister, Wolfram Weimer, argues these companies profit enormously in Germany but pay little tax. “They benefit from our media, culture and infrastructure - but give back very little,” he said. The proposal is not just about revenue; it’s about fairness. While local businesses and traditional media pay taxes, big tech firms shift profits globally to avoid them. The idea is to tax profits derived from German users, so revenue from ads on platforms like Instagram or Facebook would contribute to the German state.

MOST people would not expect the world’s sma llest country, with fewer than 1,000 residents, to lead the global energy conversation. In 2025, Vatican City has flipped the switch on something far bigger than its size: a full transi tion to solar power.

Similar digital taxes already exist in France, Spain and Italy, despite objections from Silicon Valley. The US, under President Trump, has threatened trade measures against countries adopting such taxes, complicating international relations. Chancellor

Friedrich Merz is expected to discuss the issue with Trump soon. Beyond tax, some German politicians worry about the power these companies hold over online content and national culture. The digital tax remains a proposal, but if enacted, Germany would join other nations challenging Big Tech’s dominance in Europe.

The seat of the Ca tholic Church now runs almost entirely on clean energy, echoing Pope Francis’s longstanding views on environmental stewardship and climate responsibility. This is more than rooftop panels - it shows how science, sustainability, and faith can co-exist and set an example for the world.

On Thursday May 29, Vatican City officially transitioned to solar power, a significant shift in Europe.

At the heart of this change is Santa Maria di Galeria, a former Vatican Radio site transformed into a solar hub by Italian utility company ACEA, covering all the Vatican’s energy needs. The Pope’s climate mission culminated with an apostolic letter from Pope Francis in 2024, ordering an agrivoltaic solar plant at Santa Maria di Galeria. By 2025, the Vatican became one of the only fully solar-powered states in the world. In 2023, the Vatican also announced plans to acquire over 40 electric vehicles from Volkswagen, aiming for a fully carbon-neutral fleet by 2030. If the smallest country on Earth can achieve this, what is stopping the rest of the EU?

A new digital tax could soon make tech giants like Google and Facebook pay more to operate in Europe.

The Vatican has turned to solar power.

Credit : Ascannio, Shutterstock

CREDIT: Petr Polak

Obsoletely stuck

FROM COAST TO COAST

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

WHAT’S harder than finding a parking spot in the city these days? Honestly, nothing. Is there room for improvement? Ha! That’s the problem: there isn’t any room at all.

There I was, running errands, desperately trying to hold my composure. My body was plotting against me, begging for the nearest restroom. And so began The Quest.

Nowhere to park. Not even for five minutes to honour my organic commitment. So I left the city, off to the outskirts in search of: the gas station bathroom.

After suffering at every stoplight and silently cursing slow pedestrians, followed by a schoolchildren’s excursion and a Semana Santa procession moving at the speed of incense smoke, I prayed. Finally, I made it. I parked (more like dumped the car to its fate) and dashed out like I’d heard the final boarding call for Gate Oh-My-God-Run.

While walking through the gas station, I gave the customers a show. In less than 39 seconds, I performed desperate dance styles: merengue, cha-cha, tango, Russian ballet, line dancing, and to fit in like a local, the La Macarena, tumbling through the snack aisle like a caffeinated ballerino on a nutcracking mission.

When I reached the restroom door, soaked in sweat and shaking, I opened it triumphantly… only to see feet under the stall door.

Yes. The only toilet was taken.

That’s when you realise how good you are at dead and foreign languages, yet none come out. Silently screaming in ancient Latin.

In that moment, I danced my final dance of survival.

Why do drivers in the city need the patience of a saint and the agility of a ninja just to park without a meltdown?

Now there’s a grand agenda in European cities to go carless. Or was it careless?

But are we ready? I’m not. I still think I can drive anywhere.

Wrong, Lucca. Wrong.

Once, boldly driving into a small village with a questionable GPS signal, the road narrowed... then narrowed again... until I was wedged between two centuries-old buildings. Locals cheered like I was in ‘Narrowest Escape’.

“Left! Right! No, the OTHER right!”

I sweated like a pig in July and thought I’d never make it.

But I did. And the lesson hit hard: you can’t take your car everywhere. Now, about cars…

Are they becoming obsolete?

Absolutely.

Or, with Wikilucca poetic licence, obsoletely.

Driving in big cities feels like riding a rhinoceros through IKEA: glorious in theory, disastrous in practice. Soon we’ll drive tiny pods the size of beanbags with wheels, scooters with Bluetooth, or just... nothing. We’ll walk and like it.

Cities don’t want cars anymore. They want silent, foldable, carbon-neutral dreams on wheels. Cars? Nah. They’re being gently retired, displayed alongside faxes and floppy disks.

And we? We’ll pay the price for wanting that urban buzz because it comes with territory.

Except these days…

There’s no territory left.

It just goes with the ‘no territory’.

Aif2018@hotmail.com

Spain’s sizzling slip-ups

IF a child comes home from school in Spain smelling like a chip shop and mysteriously unable to identify a courgette, he’s not alone.

A new report by Spain’s national food agency reveals that nearly a third of school canteens are dishing out more fried food than recommended, while fresh vegetables appear to be rarer than rain in August.

According to 2023 data, over a third of menus aren’t even approved by a qualified nutritionist. Meanwhile, 29 per cent of schools serve three or more portions of fried food per week (two is the limit), and a staggering 70 per cent don’t use heart-friendly oils like olive or high oleic sunflower oil.

Vegetables are given the cold shoulder too: 37 per cent of schools

serve only two portions a week, instead of the recommended three or four. Around 7 per cent have banished fish entirely, while 16 per cent fall short on fruit. And if you think that’s bad, a third rely heavily on pre-cooked dishes four times a week or more.

This, then, in sharp contrast to my last column about the supercentenarian whose healthy lifestyle choices including a strict Mediterranean diet helped her live to 117!

Indeed, the situation’s so dire that the government’s finally taken action compelling schools to serve fruit, vegetables and fish in its fight against obesity.

As Consumer Minister Pablo Bustinduy put it, “Childhood health can’t depend on postcodes.” Or, apparently, deep fat fryers!

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.

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

Rebel with a camera

BACK in the 1930s, when most photographers were still stuck in the monochrome age, one bold Londoner decided it was time to splash some serious colour onto the scene. Her name? Yevonde. Her mission? To make colour photography not just acceptable, but fabulous.

Fast forward to 2025, and her vivid, daring portraits are making waves once again - this time blowing up to billboard size in the heart of the Basque Country. Yevonde: Life and Colour, the much-praised exhibition from London’s National Portrait Gallery, has travelled to Algorta for Getxophoto, the photography festival that turns the streets into a gallery. And believe us, these photos aren’t going unnoticed.

So, who exactly was Yevonde? Born in 1893, she was a feminist, a su ragette and a true pioneer behind the lens. She opened her own studio in London befo-

The crown jewel of her career is undoubtedly the Goddesses series, shot in 1935.

re the First World War and quickly became one of the capital’s most sought-after portrait photographers. But she didn’t just want to take pretty pictures - she wanted to shake things up.

The crown jewel of her career is undoubtedly the Goddesses series, shot in 1935. For this project, she photographed upper-class women dressed as gures from classical mythologyAriadne, Medusa, Europa, Aretusa and others - trans-

forming aristocrats into divine beings. Now, almost a century later, Yevonde’s technicolour goddesses are back in the spotlight - literally. As part of Getxophoto 2025, her portraits are being exhibited on a grand scale (we’re talking 2.5 by 3.5 metres) in San Nikolas square in Algorta, Bizkaia.

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

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

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

ACROSS Europe, security lapses are allowing unauthorised passengers to board flights without tickets or boarding passes. Spain has emerged as a frequent destination for these stowaways, who exploit gaps in security checks to slip onto flights unnoticed.

The new stowaways no longer hide in cargo holds like in the 1960s. They simply time their move, slipping past distracted staff. At Zurich

Flight freeloaders

Airport, a woman managed to board a flight to Amsterdam last year by slipping past staff at the gate. Two weeks later, she tried again, heading to Barcelona.

Zurich Airport says only one such incident

Self-repairing

CRACKS, potholes, and endless road repairs have long been part of daily life. In 2025, that could change, thanks to new roads that fix themselves with cooking oil and AI. Across the UK, scientists are working on the idea that roads could self-repair, without costly crews or major traffic disruptions.

This innovative asphalt is infused with plant-based capsules, each containing frying oil. When cracks appear from stress or traffic, the capsules break open, releasing the oils to reseal the asphalt within an hour. Researchers from Swansea University and Chile are using machine learning to model how roads age and break down, developing strategies that delay damage and promote self-healing.

If successful, the first pilot scheme could be rolled out by late 2025 or early 2026. Early trials will test how these roads hold up to repeated stress and extreme weather.

The UK currently spends about £140 million a year on pothole repairs. By extending road life by 30 per cent,

this technology could save taxpayers millions and reduce CO2 emissions from petroleum-based asphalt. Though still in the testing phase, the interest is growing. Whether in London or Santiago, the logic is the same: why wait for roads to break if they can heal themselves?

was reported in 2023, but four have already occurred in 2025. While the numbers are small, experts are concerned as it highlights a growing trend.

Most stowaways rely on timing and anon-

ymity rather than hacking. They watch someone scan their QR code, then slip through close behind - a tactic known as ‘tailgating’ or ‘slipstreaming’.

If caught, consequences are light. In Switzerland, the woman was only fined 500 Swiss francs (about €500).

While Spain isn’t the problem, it’s becoming a hotspot for these ‘invisible flyers’.

Potholes may become a thing of the past.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Forest fire readiness

MALAGA’S Infoca Plan is gearing up for the high-risk wildfire season with a record €257 million budget, a 34 per cent increase since 2018.

Of this, €111 million is allocated to firefighting and €146 million for prevention, which reflect the added danger the forests of the Malaga region face in 2025. While intense rains in recent months have wet the ground plenty, this also means that wild undergrowth has proliferated, potentially increasing the amount of combustible material.

The province will deploy 577 personnel, including 438 from the Forest Fire Service and 79 from the Sustainability and Environment Department. The operation includes 13 heavy vehicles (12 fire engines, one water tender) and 13 transport vehicles. Aerial support comprises 40 units, with 36 provided by the Junta: 23 helicopters and 13 planes, backed by a €26 million investment.

Malaga also maintains 146 water intake points and 19 surveillance posts.

Axarquia

Early detection saves lives

THE Early Breast Cancer Detection Programme is getting underway across the Axarquia region. This June, a mobile screening unit will be stopping in three local towns to make it easier for women to get checked close to home.

Around 1,700 women between the ages of 49 and 71 are expected to take part in the screenings scheduled throughout the month.

The mobile unit will first stop in Benamocarra (June 2–9), followed by Almachar (June 11–17), and finally Benamargosa (June 19–27).

It will also serve women from several nearby villages, including Iznate, El Borge, Comares, Cútar, and Triana.

This initiative is led by the Eastern Malaga-Axarquia Health District and aims to identify tumours at early stages through mammography, a fast and nearly painless diagnostic test.

Finding breast cancer early can push survival rates close to 90 per cent and often means that treatment can be less harsh, with fewer side effects.

Mallorca

Missing yacht crew member

CONCERN is mounting in Palma’s yachting community following the disappearance of Jan Michael De Vries, a First Mate who has been missing since the early hours of Saturday morning, May 31.

De Vries was last seen at 3.49am on Saturday, leaving the STP access gate in Palma. According to colleagues, his sudden disappearance is highly out of character and has sparked increasing worry for his well-being.

“He’s never done anything like this before. We are all extremely concerned and just want to know he’s safe,” said a crew member who worked alongside him.

At the time he was last seen, Jan was wearing a light brown linen shirt, dark blue linen shorts, and black Vans shoes. He was also wearing sunglasses, but not the cap seen in some photos being circulated. The shirt in question matches the one shown in a widely shared image online.

The case has been reported to local authorities.

Costa Blanca South New low-cost flights

ALICANTE-ELCHE Miguel Hernández Airport continues to expand its selection of destinations with new flight routes launching this summer season. For wine lovers, Volotea has started up a connection to Bordeaux, France, on May 31 with flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays, putting on sale over 19,000 seats across 100 flights. The route, previously operated by Ryanair, adds to Volotea’s presence in Alicante, where it has operated since 2015, with a 24 per cent seat increase to 251,000 in 2025.

Wizz Air launched a new year-round route to Belgrade, Serbia, on June 3, with three weekly flights, adding to the airport’s growing network. Other new destinations, including Chisinau (Moldova), Athens (Greece), and Salzburg (Austria), are already proving to be popular.

Ryanair’s routes to Linz and Salzburg saw nearly 3,000 and 2,619 passengers, respectively, through April, while its Bydgoszcz (Poland) route hit over 2,900 passengers.

Almeria Hippies for hope

THIS year’s Hippie Night proved to be a big hit once again, with more than 260 people turning up at Bocaina Beach Club. The popular event raised €2,433 after costs for the Vera and District Lions, who support a range of local community projects. The night was full of music, dancing, and laughter, with live band The Funk Federation getting everyone on their feet. London DJ Terry Knight kept the party going late into the night with a crowd-pleasing mix of tracks.

Organiser Jackie Miles-Kirby said the team was thrilled with how the evening turned out. “It was a fantastic night and we’re so grateful to everyone who came along, donated, or helped in any way,” she said.

The money raised will go towards the Lions’ ongoing work, including help for families in need, support for the local children’s home, and regular contributions to the food bank service in the Almeria area. They bought replacement washing machines for the local children’s orphanage.

Costa Calida

Mar Menor makes waves

THE Mar Menor hosted a variety of charity events over the past two weekends to support people with multiple sclerosis. The Trofeo EMACC Memorial Juan Barrionuevo took place at Club Náutico Los Nietos, with sailing races on May 31 and June 1, and a rowing event is set for June 7.

Sailors competed in classes like Optimist, Cruiser, Ilca 4, Ilca 6, and Snipe. Both locals and visitors travelling from other parts of Spain and Europe took part.

The event was backed by the Cartagena City Council, the regional government, and local sailing and rowing federations. It also offered activities adapted for people with multiple sclerosis and their families, including a special race designed for participants with disabilities.

Organisers say the event promotes the health benefits of sailing in nature, while also bringing the community together with games, raffles, and food tastings.

Hugo needs a cat-sitter. Can you help?

DO you like cats? We have several cats that need a cat minder while their owners are away. Take Hugo for example, he lives in a chocolate box thatched cottage near Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire and often needs cat sitters while his owner travels abroad. Can you help? Then think about joining HouseSitMatch as a cat-sitter and apply and you can exchange your services as a cat minder for free accommodation. It’s a collaboration.

HouseSitMatch saves you money

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

HouseSitMatch is safeAll members are checked

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

Your pets stay at home

- Safe and undisturbed

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

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

1. Register as a house-sitter or a homeowner on Hou seSitMatch.com

Hugo lives in Cambridgeshire and his owner travels a lot - he often needs a sitter.

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

3. Create a profile with photos

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

Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then house-sitters build a profile

and homeowners build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

I really love HouseSitMatch it’s just perfect for me and Lamia the owner is so very kind and helpful in every way.

Angela, Pet owner

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

Need a petsitter? Housesitting is a win-win, free house and petsitting exchanged for free accommodation!

TIP What is pet obesity?

DOGS are considered overweight when they weigh 10 per cent to 30 per cent above their ideal body weight. Obesity is diagnosed when a dog’s weight exceeds 30 per cent of ideal. Cats follow a similar classification.

ALARMS

ASPHALT DRIVES

BLINDS

Ideal speed to save fuel

THE Spanish tra c authority, Dirección General de Trá co (DGT), has con rmed the most fuel-ecient speed for driving. While many assume driving slower saves fuel, the DGT emphasises that maintaining a constant speed is more important for reducing fuel consumption and improving e ciency.

The DGT speci es 90 km/h as the optimal speed for fuel economy, provided driving conditions are ideal. To maximise e ciency, drivers should avoid unnecessary gear changes, limit braking and acceleration, and keep a steady pace. This highlights that how you drive matters more than simply driving slowly.

The DGT also debunks some common myths: using the highest gear at low revs can damage the engine and does not save fuel; idling the engine at stops longer than 30–60 seconds wastes fuel compared to switching it o ; driving with high revs increases fuel use and wear; and keeping the tank full adds weight, which raises consumption.

Additional tips from the DGT include using higher gears without stressing the engine, avoiding sudden acceleration, checking tyre pressure regularly, and maintaining the vehicle properly. While reducing air conditioning use and removing heavy items can help slightly, consistent driving habits and good car care make the biggest di erence.

A simple summer car fix

AS temperatures rise, your car can feel like an oven. If your air conditioning smells or blows warm air, you might be in for an uncomfortable - and possibly unhealthy - ride. The good news? You don’t need to rush to the mechanic. With a bit of time and some simple tools, you can clean your car’s AC system yourself.

Maintaining your car and AC can help you avoid costly repairs later, prevent foul odours, keep you focused and even improve fuel efficiency. It’s best done before summer hits.

Start by using a steam cleaner to disinfect the vents, targeting every air outlet to remove bacteria, mould, and other build-ups. Avoid over-soaking and keep a safe distance from

electronics. Next, remove the air filterusually under the bonnet or behind the glove box - and check its condition. Replace or clean as needed.

Turn on the AC full blast with all vents open to flush out dust.

Then apply sanitiser to the evaporator (often behind the glovebox) to tackle lingering odours. Finally, replace or clean the filter, ensuring it’s aligned and the cover is secure.

Don’t forget to park

in the shade, use a windscreen sunshade, and protect your steering wheel and windows. With these steps, you’ll be breathing easier and staying cooler this summer - your passengers will thank you.

Breathe easier and cooler this summer.

Costly window error

IT sounds harmless, but in some Spanish towns, leaving your car window open can now cost you up to €1,500. While this isn’t a new law, many drivers are only discovering it after being fined. Social media is full of drivers shocked by this sudden enforcement.

These fines aren’t from Spain’s national traffic authority, the DGT, but from local councils. In many places, leaving a window slightly open is seen as a security risk or an invitation for theft. Some municipalities argue it’s about preventing crime, while others see it as a road safety issue.

Owners of motorhomes, campervans, or caravans face even stricter rules. In many areas, they can’t leave anything open when parked - windows, awnings, or steps - except for a roof vent for

airflow.

Spain isn’t alone in this. In Italy, you could be fined around €180 for the same issue, but Spanish fines can be far higher, depending on local rules.

To avoid trouble and protect yourself, close all your windows

completely when parking, even for a minute. Check local rules and be mindful of signs, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

We all like some fresh air on a warm day, but that breeze might be the most expensive air you ever pay for.

ITV inspection goes fully digital

Credit: Prisca Laguna, Shutterstock.

For cars registered since 2016, digital re -

The familiar ITV sticker still goes on your windscreenproof your car’s passed its mandatory annual check and is street legal in Spain.

cords already exist. Older vehicles are gradually joining the system, and since

April, every station in Spain is wired up for this change. If you’re not yet on the eITV,

you can update your record during your next ITV appointment or visit a Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico.

Benefits include no paperwork, quicker inspections, and fewer fraud risks for buyers and sellers. The familiar ITV sticker remains on your windscreen as proof of passing the annual

The eITV is part of a broader digital shift in Spanish transport, including the miDGT app for digital driving licences and plans for electronic number plates. For once, Spanish bureaucracy might actually be working in your favour.

Leaving your window open can be seen as a security risk.

Aston Martin DBX S - supercar of SUVs?

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

ASTON Martin has announced a new DBX flagship, the DBX S. Powered by an engine with technology transferred directly from the forthcoming Valhalla supercar, the DBX S has even more power and reduced weight.

DBX S continues a long tradition of Aston Martin’s utilisation of the ‘S’ suffix to denote a special, high-performance version of an existing model; the first being Vanquish S which made its public debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2004. DBX S proves that lighter variants with more power and performance are still very much part of Aston Martin’s production and continues a lineage of notable high-performance models.

delivering extreme performance on launch from standstill.

At the heart of the new DBX S is an upgraded version of the company’s 4.0-Litre Twin-Turbo V8

the upcoming Valhalla supercar, power is raised by a further 20PS to 727PS. The result is a 0-100kph time of just 3.3 seconds and the top speed remains unchanged at

From the front, the new DBX S has a pure black vaned grille and new side sills have distinctive up-turned air splitters which help channel and direct the airflow along the side of the car. The most obvious visual changes to the new flagship DBX are at the rear, dominated by quad exhausts now vertically stacked and available in both gloss and matt finishes.

310kph/193mph.

As with its DBX707 stablemate, DBX S distributes its power between the front and rear wheels in variable proportion – including an ability to send 50 per cent of its torque to the front and up to 100 per cent of its torque to the rear wheels alone - through a 9-speed ‘wet clutch’ transmission, which removes the need for a conventional torque converter,

The interior has a bespoke ‘S’ theme; the most notable feature being the distinctive herringbone design which comes as standard on the seating. Seating, headlining, centre console, lower instrument panels and upper trim is finished in lightweight Alcantara, the seat bolsters are in semi-aniline leather.

‘S’ has long had an association with Aston Martin, and DBX S proves that lighter variants with more power and performance are still very much part of the marque’s story, and are set to last into the foreseeable future.

DBX S is available to order now, with deliveries expected towards the end of the year.

Lewis’ terrible day

LEWIS HAMILTON’S debut season with Ferrari hit a snag at the Spanish Grand Prix on Sunday June 1, with the British driver calling it a “terrible day” at Circuit

caused by a Verstappen-Russell clash, allowed Leclerc to grab third from Verstappen. Hamilton, however, dropped to seventh, later overtaking to sixth after Verstappen’s 10-second penalty. “The car didn’t work as I wanted it to,” Hamilton said. “The strategy was solid, the team did well, but I was slow post-Safety Car. It’s my fault. I just want

solation, but Hamilton’s woes reveal a struggle to adapt to the team’s pionship fight intensifying, the seven-time champion faces pressure to rebound and revive Ferrari’s title

Lewis Hamilton dissatisfied by his own performance.

Credit: Jay Hirano - Shutterstock