THE incredible 33rd edition of the Torrevieja Paella Competition closed with a bang, and the winners, Los Costeños, made a jaw-dropping, savoury paella that the judges fell in love with. The Antonio Soria Park in Torrevieja was packed with locals and visitors to celebrate.
The residents of Torrevieja gathered at the idyllic park to enjoy a day of music, friendship, fun, and of course, delicious paellas. There was a lineup of talented local artists bringing live music to the scene, including a concert by La Hornet and performances by CH Charri, with Alca y and DJ Luis López.
According to the organisers from the Torrevieja Town Hall, who were in charge of the event, more than 12,000 people attended this year’s festivities, marking a major event not only for the municipality but for the whole of the Costa Blanca South.
Britons boost towns
FOREIGNERS are breathing new life into Alicante’s towns, keeping businesses a oat, lling empty homes, and helping to curb depopulation.
New data from Spain’s National Institute of Statistics (INE) reveals that in some Alicante towns, foreigners - particularly Britons - now outnumber local residents.
Many of the newcomers in small Alicante towns arrive after having lived in major tourist hubs along the Costa Blanca South, like Torrevieja. They come to the more rural towns seeking to escape the bustling noise of the city and rising housing costs, looking instead to retire in a peaceful setting, work remotely, or raise their children.
There are a number of reasons why Britons gravitate towards Spain, but the main reasons include the mild climate (which o ers what the UK cannot: reliable sunshine), a slower, more laid-back pace of life, more a ordable properties and cost of living, a higher quality of healthcare, and most of all, a higher quality of life and well-being.
There are a number of
towns along the Costa Blanca in which foreigners outnumber locals, including Algorfa, San Fulgencio, San Miguel de Salinas, and Rojales. Residents and mayors generally welcome the integration, as the strong presence of foreigners not only boosts local economy and ghts back against the depopulation that threa-
tens many of these towns, but helps to diversify the town and promote coexistence.
Foreigners revive dwindling Alicante towns, boosting communities and reversing population decline.
It’s pantomime time
The show includes plenty of comedy, song, dance and slapstick.
THE Rojales Pantomime Group have been busy rehearsing for their Christmas Pantomime ‘Red Riding Hood and the Three Little Pigs’ to be performed on the evenings of December 11 and 12 and on the afternoon of December 13 at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio.
The Pantomime is an original script written by Alison Clough and directed by Julia Parker. The show promises the traditional ingredients of comedy, song, dance, slapstick and plenty of audience participation, Oh yes it does! The usual characters will take part including Red Riding Hood and
her love interest, Neil Down. The Dame is Red Riding Hood’s hilarious Granny Gertie and of course, no pantomime would be complete without the Villain of the piece, the Big Bad Wolf who is ably supported by his vicious sidekicks, Guzzle and Gorge.
This show is suitable for all ages and tickets are only €10 for adults and €5 for children, so there’s no excuse not to treat yourself to an evening of fun and Christmas spirit. The proceeds from ticket sales are donated to local charities.
Tickets are on sale at the following outlets: The Post Box, Doña Pepa; The Card Place, Be-
nimar; The Post Room, Benijofar; Cards and More, La Marina; Carpet Heaven, Los Montesinos; Treasure Chest, Quesada, The Card Place; Punta Prima and The Post Shop, Villamartin.
THIS December, the picturesque Finca La Montañosa in Hondón de las Nieves will host a Christmas Market on Saturday, December 20, from 1pm to 5pm. Set against the backdrop of one of the area’s most well-known venues, the event offers an afternoon of seasonal activities designed for families, couples and groups of friends. With its combination of local products, festive entertainment and community participation, the market provides a relaxed yet well-organised way to enjoy the run-up to Christmas.
A key feature of the market is its promotion of local producers and artisans. Visitors can explore stalls offering artisanal foods, handmade crafts and seasonal decorations. Dutch favourites such as ‘kibbeling’ and ‘haring’ will be available, alongside other festive snacks suited to the winter season. Handmade items include Christmas decorations, small gifts, accessories and creative pieces made by local residents.
Stall participation is free, allowing hobbyists and small-scale producers to showcase their work. Complementing the stalls is live music, creating a welcoming seasonal atmosphere. Visitors can stroll the grounds with a hot drink, enjoying the natural scenery of Finca La Montañosa and the social buzz of the gathering.
Stallholders can book via WhatsApp on +34 614 748 566. The market combines food, crafts, music and community spirit, making it a highlight of the Costa Blanca festive holiday calendar.
Border rule clarity
What residents need
BRITONS living in Spain have faced confusion since the EU introduced its Entry and Exit System (EES) at Schengen borders. The key point is clear: UK nationals with a valid Spanish biometric TIE residence card are exempt from EES and should not use the new biometric kiosks or short-stay queues.
EES applies to third-country nationals visiting the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It replaces passport stamping with a digital record of entry and exit dates, photographs and fingerprints. Tourists and second-home owners must use EES, but residents must not. Anyone holding a residence permit or long-stay visa issued by a Schengen state is excluded, covering British Withdrawal Agreement residents and all other TIE holders in Spain.
Confusion arises because many long-term UK residents still rely on the older green residency certificate. While valid for some administrative purposes, it is no longer accepted as proof of residency at the border. Both the Spanish government and UK Embassy warn that border staff may treat green certificate holders as tourists, meaning their days could count under EES rules and may trigger an incorrect overstay alert.
The solution is clear: only the biometric TIE card provides recognised proof of residency. TIE holders should use the EU or residents’ queue, presenting passport and TIE together while bypassing EES entirely.
Read the full article at: https://euroweeklynews. com/2025/12/03/queues-scans-and-stamps-why-brits-with-atie-dont-have-to-play-the-ees-game/
Card payment reform
New reporting rules
FROM January 2026, Spain will introduce major changes to banking and tax reporting. All card payments received by self-employed workers and businesses will be reported to the tax authorities, regardless of amount.
Until now, only payments over €3,000 were re-
ported. Under the new rules, every transaction via card, mobile app, or online platform must be submitted monthly. Private individuals who are not self-employed are mostly unaffected unless annual card spending exceeds €25,000.
The government says the move reflects a digital economy where most pay ments are
electronic. Authorities aim to improve transparency, combat tax fraud, and ensure a full picture of income. Digital banks and foreign payment providers will also be included.
Self-employed expatriates must expect all payments to be reported. Keeping accurate invoices and receipts, separating personal and business finances, and declaring all income will be essential. Even payments via apps such as Bizum and Revolut will now be monitored, making proper record-keeping critical.
The reform ensures fairer competition but adds administrative pressure. Freelancers and micro-businesses will need to track every transaction, including side jobs, rentals, or online work. Failure to comply could result in fines or additional scrutiny.
Expatriates should consult a gestor or accountant and organise accounts before the new system begins. Planning ahead and keeping a clear paper trail will make the transition smoother and avoid surprises during tax season.
Offline card payments
SPAIN has set a goal of creating a system allowing card payments without an internet connection, proposed by the National Payments Committee in November. The move responds to vulnerabilities in current payment systems, which are frequently disrupted by blackouts, cyber-attacks and network failures.
The system, explained by radio host Alberto Herrera on COPE, is more secure than current arrangements. Herrera cited commercial flights, where cabin crew accept payments without knowing if cards have sufficient funds. Transactions are only processed once connections are restored, meaning some payments may fail.
The new system would embed a spending limit in the card chip, verified instantly by point-of-sale (TPV) terminals, eliminating reliance on external connections. TPVs could confirm the card’s authenticity, verify the PIN, and store transaction data for later processing when connectivity is restored.
Officials are also considering ‘emergency ATMs’ in key locations to operate during electricity or network failures. Implementation, currently scheduled for 2029, faces challenges including privacy, fraud risks and assigning liability.
The rollout requires changes to card chips, TPVs, and coordination among issuers, acquirers, processors and regulators, defining activation scenarios, priority sectors and responsibilities. If successful, the system could reduce dependence on cash, provide more resilient payments and allow transactions to continue even during network disruptions.
Retirement age rises
SPAIN’S pension system will undergo major changes in 2026, marking the final step in a long-running transition towards raising the standard retirement age to 67. From January 1, 2026, the ordinary retirement age will be set at 66 years and 10 months, although workers with at least 38 years and three months of contributions will still be able to retire at 65 without penalty. Alongside this, a new phased ‘dual’ system for calculating pensions will begin, gradually expanding the career period used to determine benefits.
The reforms also include financial adjustments. The Mecanismo de Equidad Inter-generacional surcharge will rise to 0.9 per cent, split between employers and workers, with further increases planned. Maximum contribution bases will be raised in line with inflation, and minimum pensions will be updated above average price rises to protect against poverty. A solidarity surcharge on higher salaries will also continue to grow.
These measures aim to improve long-term sustainability while limiting immediate shocks for long-serving workers. The changes affect both Spanish nationals and expatriates contributing to the system. Analysts advise those nearing retirement to review contribution records and consider voluntary options. Policymakers view 2026 as a technical turning point that will shape Spain’s pension landscape for decades.
Queues build at Spanish passport control as the new EU border checks roll out.
Spain to track card payments.
Almoradi Constitution tribute
ALMORADI marked Constitution Day this year with a ceremony that placed community, education and young voices firmly at its heart, shifting the focus away from politics and towards the people who help uphold democratic values locally. Celebrations on December 6 began in the Plaza de la Constitución, where Spain’s national and regional flags were raised not by officials, but by representatives of the town’s school parents’ associations (AMPAS): Alexandra Amelián, Sonia Carrillo and Domingo García. The gesture symbolised the central role families play in nurturing civic responsibility and supporting local education.
After the outdoor tribute, residents gathered in the town hall exhibition space for the formal institutional act, which revisited the key principles of Spain’s Constitution - freedom, justice and peaceful coexistence - as shared responsibilities to be passed on to future generations, rather than abstract
Youth involvement became the emotional core of the ceremony. Two residents who reached adulthood this year, María Martínez López and Maite Caracena Murcia, were invited to read the official constitutional manifesto. Their speech highlighted the responsibilities that come with turning 18
and the importance of young people engaging actively in civic life, setting a hopeful tone for the town’s future.
Mayor María Gómez presented each of them with a copy of the Spanish Constitution, congratulating them on becoming full citizens and praising what she described as a “committed and socially aware generation” ready to contribute positively to community life.
The spotlight then turned to Almoradi’s school families. The council awarded commemorative plaques to the AMPAS in recognition of their daily work supporting schools and strengthening educational ties. Speaking for the parents’ associations, Alexandra Amelián underlined the collective
effort of families and teachers alike, stressing that education remains one of society’s most powerful tools for building opportunity and social cohesion.
Mayor Gómez closed the event by calling the Constitution “a living guarantee of our freedoms and rights,” urging residents of all ages to keep democratic values rooted in respect, equality and unity alive through everyday action. Festivities ended on a lighter, creative note as attendees viewed a colourful mural designed by local schoolchildren, serving as a visual reminder that Almoradi’s youngest residents are already learning how to leave their mark on both the town and its civic traditions.
Local Police and officials attend Almoradis Constitution Day ceremony outside the town hall.
Credit : Facebook - Ayuntamiento de Almoradí
Guardamar’s Christmas Programme
GUARDAMAR DEL SEGU-
RA has unveiled a seasonal initiative aimed at enlivening the town through festive lighting, decorations, and cultural events. The programme, led by the local council, seeks to encourage residents and visitors to spend time in public spaces, fostering community engagement and strengthening the town’s identity as a welcoming winter destination. Illuminated installations, live performances, workshops, and family-friendly events form the core of the initiative, with a strong emphasis on shared experiences and community participation.
Local authorities highlight economic objectives, noting that increased footfall will support restaurants, cafés, and independent retailers during the quieter winter months.
Tourism representatives see the campaign as a means to extend the visitor season beyond summer, while maintaining the town’s attractiveness and vibrancy. The council has
prioritised inclusivity, with activities designed for all age groups, aiming to create a genuine festive atmosphere rather than a purely commercial display.
Early public response has been positive, reflecting enthusiasm for renewed energy in streets and public squares. Overall, the initiative demonstrates Guardamar’s ambition to combine cultural programming, economic support, and community cohesion, positioning the town as a year-round destination and showcasing how local administrations can revitalise urban spaces while promoting social engagement.
La Carrera del Pavo
ROJALES will host La Carrera del Pavo cycling race in 2025, reviving one of the municipality’s most beloved sporting traditions. The event, organised with local sports clubs and supported by the town hall, offers a family-friendly competition open to cyclists of all ages and abilities, blending sport with festive end-of-year celebrations.
The race takes place on adapted central streets and surrounding routes, ensuring safety for participants and spectators. La Carrera del Pavo is closely linked to Christmas and New Year festivities, often incorporating symbolic prizes, costumes, and community involvement.
Families gather along the route, and local businesses enhance the festive atmosphere through decorated storefronts.
Participation is multigenerational, fostering intergenerational engagement and communal spi -
rit. The event also stimulates local economic activity, with increased footfall benefiting cafés, bars, and shops, while promoting tourism during the winter months. Police and civil protection teams manage crowd control and temporary road closures.
By reviving the race, Rojales emphasises its commitment to preserving community traditions, supporting active lifestyles, and combining festive celebrations with local identity.
The 2025 edition aims to deliver an inclusive, lively atmosphere, reinforcing the town’s reputation as a municipality where sport, culture, and community life are closely intertwined.
The race takes place on adapted central streets and surrounding route.
Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Rojales/Facebook
Early public response has been positive.
Photo credit:
Seasonal showcase
THE department of Culture has opened the registration for the 21st edition of the Nativity Scene Competition in the municipality of Orihuela, an event that brings together local individuals, families, schools, and organisations and rings in the holiday season. According to the Department, the tradition is a competition that celebrates one of the most cherished and deeply-rooted traditions in Orihuela: the Christmas Nativity Scene.
Registration for participation will be open until December 15, and according to the Orihuela Town Hall, “individuals and families, schools, diorama creators and entities such as associations, parishes, brotherhoods, convents or businesses may participate” in what is sure to be a tough competition full of submissions by
artists and creatives.
“This year, the competition again has four categories and prizes will be awarded to the three best Nativity scenes in each of them,” said the councillor for Culture, Anabel García
The jury that will judge the submissions will be composed of professionals linked to the cultural and artistic sectors of the municipality, and have been selected due to their experience and technical expertise, according to the Orihuela Town Hall. The jury members will visit the registered nativity scenes and discuss their thoughts before coming to a decision. The scenes are being judged on their creativity, the complexity of the assembly, artistic quality, design, and the number of people involved in its creation.
Conception & Christmas
SANTA POLA has officially begun its shining Christmas festivities, and kicked off its incredible Immaculate Conception long weekend with an extensive Christmas programme, culminating in a special procession for the town’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Assumption.
Over the weekend from Friday, December 5 to Monday, December 8, the Glorieta and the Castle became the epicentre of Christmas in the coastal municipality. The giant tree in the heart of town was illuminated, Christmas markets sprang to life, and Santa’s House and the municipal nativity scene became available to the public.
The Christmas Market, which opened on Friday, December 5, was set up in the courtyard of the Castle and its surroundings. There, residents and visitors alike found a wide array of artisanal products, food,
Christmas-themed gifts, and a varied programme of activities constantly in motion, including performances, workshops, and storytelling.
One of the biggest draws for the municipality came on Friday afternoon, when the countdown was shouted to press the button that illuminated Santa Pola’s sparkling Christmas lights, as well as the giant tree in the Glorieta. Santa Pola closed out the Monday festivities with the inauguration of the municipal nativity scene, made by the Association of Nativity Scene Makers of Santa Pola, this year installed under the bandstand of the Glorieta.
Photo Credit: Santa Pola Town Hall
Orihuela invites community entries for its 21st annual Nativity competition.
Santa Pola opens Christmas season with lights, markets, concerts and celebrations.
Camera champions
TWO talented photographers from the Costa Blanca South have walked away with the first and second prizes from the seventh edition of the Photoclot Photography Competition, which highlighted the stunning beauty and evolution of the Clot de Galvany Municipal Natural Area. This year, the theme, ‘A look back at the past’, is part of the activities organised to mark the 10th anniversary of the Natural Area’s declaration, marking a milestone for the conservation of a valuable wetlands area on the coast of Alicante.
The first prize, an incredible €625, was awarded to Esteban Antón Leonis, from the coastal municipality of Santa Pola. The second prize, €250, went to Alejandro Coves Navarro, from the interior hub
of Elche. The photographs were evaluated based on their documentary and historical value, as well as their relation to the chosen theme of the competition this year.
The photographs are on display in the Clot exhibition, located in Plaza de Santa Isabel, in Elche. The photos are presented through eight double-sided panels, offering an immersive visual journey of Elche over the last few decades for visitors of all ages.
The photos show how the actions taken by the Elche Town Council pioneer the recovery of the site and the balance of the wetlands’ ecosystem, and also showcase some milestones to protect the biodiversity of the flora and fauna.
Magna Purísima in Torrevieja
TORREVIEJA readied this week its historic centre for the Purísima Concepción procession, a significant religious and cultural event. Streets are decorated with lighting, floral arrangements, and ceremonial structures, ensuring the city reflected the solemnity of the occasion. Organised by local authorities, parish groups, and religious brotherhoods, the procession preserves deep-rooted traditions, engaging families across generations in a shared expression of faith and civic identity.
Bands, ceremonial participants, and religious associations accompanied the figure of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, creating an atmosphere of reverence and community pride. The event also boosted local tourism and the economy, with increased activity in hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets along the route. Authorities imple-
mented traffic controls, parking restrictions, and security measures to ensure orderly participation and crowd safety.
Historians note that the celebration reflects Torrevieja’s maritime heritage and strong religious culture, blending devotion with public ceremony. As one of the town’s most emblematic festivals, the Purísima procession not only maintains continuity of tradition but also strengthens communal ties. Local organisers aim to preserve the festival’s significance while welcoming visitors, highlighting Torrevieja’s cultural richness and reinforcing its position as a yearround destination with traditions that continue to define its identity and civic pride.
Two local photographers win top prizes showcasing Clot de Galvany’s evolution.
Photo Credit: Elche Town Council
Historians note that the celebration reflects Torrevieja’s maritime heritage and strong religious culture.
Festive fortune
THIS year, for Christmas, the Pilar de la Horadada Department of Commerce is hosting a special deal for residents and visitors, to give back to shoppers during the holiday season. From Tuesday, December 9 until Tuesday, December 16, Pilar de la Horadada rolls out the ‘Christmas Shopping Express’, a deal that will reward those who spend at specific stores with a chance to win €1,100 to spend in participating shops during one exciting, shop-till-you-drop day. All shoppers need to do is spend more than €25 at participating Pilar de la Horadada businesses between December 9 and December 16. If the purchase exceeds €25, the shopper can fill out a participation card and drop it into the shop’s box with their receipt. The day after the contest ends, on Wednesday, December 17, the lucky winner will receive a
phone call. After winning, the shopper can spend their money in an express shopping day on Saturday, December 20 in the participating store of their choosing.
“Because behind every shop are people who work hard every day to keep our town alive, we offer you the
best service and help you with your Christmas shopping,” stated the Pilar de la Horadada Department of Commerce in the official announcement on Facebook.
“Do your shopping in the beating heart of your town!” concludes the Department of Commerce.
Film frontier
ALICANTE is taking a big step towards attracting international audiovisual productions by establishing its presence in Focus, Europe’s leading trade fair for the audiovisual industry, for the first time.
The Fair, which was held in London on Monday, December 8 and Tuesday, December 9, is a key opportunity for regions and provinces to position themselves as a prime location for film, television, and advertising projects.
The Alicante Film Office, as part of the Municipal Board of Tourism and Beaches, attended the event along with other film offices from the Community of Valencia. There, Alicante took advantage of an incredible opportunity to enter the conversation about European audiovisual production. Production companies, location scouters, and film tourism professionals were all key connections made at the Fair.
This year, Focus celebrated its 10th anniversary and was held at London’s Business Design Centre, bringing together thousands of professionals from more than 100 countries and breaking
their previous exhibitor records. The event delves into the technical aspects of filmmaking, from co-productions to tax incentives to technological innovations. For this reason, it is a prime showcase for towns and cities with the potential to become audiovisual hotspots, including Alicante.
Countries including Armenia, the Czech Republic, India, Georgia, Jordan, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates were present at the Fair, showing off their talent including studios, film commissioners, sustainability experts, and production companies.
Pilar de la Horadada rewards holiday shoppers with a major prize.
Photo Credit: freestocks / Unsplash
Alicante debuts at Europe’s top audiovisual fair to boost productions.
Photo Credit: Focus 2025
Storm steadfastness
THE San Fulgencio Local Police department has received an o cial recognition from the San Fulgencio Town Hall for their extensive and hard work during the DANA on October 29, 2024. The police o cers in San Fulgencio remained calm, dedicated, and professional amid a terrifying storm whose torrential rains and ooding claimed hundreds of victims and destroyed a considerable amount of property in what has come to be known as ‘The Day of 700 Litres’.
The recognition follows a recent commendation awarded to several San Fulgencio o cers for their outstanding collaboration and assistance during the harrowing storm. During the emotional ceremony, the members of the force’s commitment and hard work were highlighted.
“They acted with a strong vocation for public service in especially di cult circum-
stances. Their intervention was essential in assisting residents and collaborating with the competent authorities during moments of greatest need,” read a post made on Facebook by the San Fulgencio Town Hall.
“Congratulations to the decorated ocers,” read the town hall’s post, “and thank you to the entire team for your e ort and dedication. San Fulgencio is proud of you.”
The aforementioned DANA storm claimed the lives of 229 victims, and two people are still missing.
On October 29, 2025, the San Fulgencio Town Hall held a collective moment of mourning for the one year anniversary of the disaster.
Town honours police for heroic action during the deadly 2024 DANA storm.
Photo Credit: San Fulgencio Town Hall / Facebook
Montesinos festive fair
THE Los Montesinos Town Hall continues its Christmas programme this weekend with the fourth Feria Navideña de Asociaciones, taking place on Sunday December 14 from 10.00 at Plaza Sagrado Corazón. The event, now a xture in the local calendar, brings together community groups and residents in a festive, supportive atmosphere. Organised by the culture and social services departments, led by Rosa Belén Morán and Nathalie Dubi, the fair is held in collaboration with local associations.
The day begins with the opening of the fair, where associations showcase their work and o er products, workshops, and Christmas-themed activities. At 12.00, a carol parade led by the Escuela Municipal de Música and the Agrupación Musical Montesinos will wind through the town, lling the streets with festive cheer.
A new feature this year is the Municipal Nativity Scene, inaugurated at 12.30 in a specially erected marquee next to the Church, providing a more accessible and visible space for visitors.
Mayor José Manuel Butrón highlighted the fair as a celebration of the town’s social fabric and a chance to relaunch Christmas activities, with renewed spaces and attractions such as the outdoor Nativity Scene. He invited residents and visitors to enjoy a day of community, music, and tradition in the heart of Los Montesinos.
THE fourth edition of Las Colinas Trophy took place on December 6 and 7 at the exclusive Las Colinas Golf & Country Club in Orihuela Costa (Alicante), bringing together 90 players and their guests for a unique blend of golf, gastronomy, music, and entertainment. The event concluded the national and international Race to Las Colinas 2025 circuit, o ering a high-level sporting, cultural, culinary, and social experience. Main sponsors were Eulen, Heineken, and Las Colinas Residential.
Around the club’s 18hole course, a varied programme combined elegance, fun, and attention to detail. Saturday began with the welcome village and packs, six sponsor tents, Toptracer Range practice sessions, food trucks, and a DJ, while a Close to the Pin contest on the putting green debuted to acclaim.
Sunday featured the main competition, a Stableford individual event for men and women
Las Colinas Trophy
from 9.00, followed by lunch at restaurant Unik with barbecue and paella. Afternoon highlights included prize and gift presentations, a busy Photocall with live music by The Crooners, and the gala and closing cocktail at il Palco, where the main trophies were awarded.
Gifts included watches by Cuevas Amorós and Victorinox, Casmara cosmetics, Callaway golf
gear, iPads, olive oil, high-end car experiences, Heineken beer, and contemporary art from Jaloe. Krystian Kozakiewicz won the overall trophy, with Catherine Gobonya taking the female title. Perfect weather, up to 23°C, and live music by Take Over completed the memorable weekend.
ADAPT PANTO SUCCESS
The whole of the production was sensational - fresh and fun.
THE end of November was the start of the Christmas season for San Pedro residents with the sensational production of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ at the new Geli Albaladejo theatre.
All anxiety about adapting to a large new venue were allayed as actors and stage crew alike gave it their all and delighted three packed out audiences for two evening and one matinee show. Everyone had a great time, including both Spanish and English-speaking audience members, adults and children.
As one Spanish audien-
ce member, Juanjo, told us:
“the production, the stage design and the integration with the video elements were sensational - fresh and fun.” He went on to say: “The production showed exquisite care in making sure that the play could be understood in both languages (English and Spanish), a goal that was fully and brilliantly achieved - without making it slow or repetitive, and, from the perspective of a Spaniard, with the added charm of a strong English accent in the Spanish lines.” With the increased audience size we have been
able to make two charitable donations, namely €3,000 to AFEMAR, a local charity which works in the area of mental health and €500 to HSC an association which supports families coping with a rare congenital disease. Our thanks also go to all those groups and individuals who worked with us to make this year’s panto such a success.
If you would like join us in our next production in November 2026, in any shape whatsoever please contact us. You can Google the ADAPT THETARE GROUP for contact information.
A varied programme combined elegance and fun.
Credit: Las Colinas
Christmas celebrations
THE Chaplaincy of Ss Peter and Paul, Torrevieja, will once again celebrate the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ with a range of special services open to all. Festivities begin on Tuesday December 16 with an hour of carol singing outside Lago Jardín Church at 6pm, followed by mulled wine and refreshments, said Father Richard A Seabrook SSC, the English-speaking priest.
On Thursday December 18, a traditional service of Nine Lessons and Carols will be held at La Siesta Church, Calle Granados, Urb La Siesta, at 6pm, followed by refreshments. The service follows the pattern of King’s College, Cambridge, which Father Seabrook noted is well-known and loved.
Three English-language Masses are planned: 5pm at Lago Jardín and 11.30pm at La Siesta on Christmas Eve, and 10.30am at La Siesta on Christmas Day. Father Seabrook emphasised that Christmas reminds us of God’s peace and love shown through Jesus.
The Chaplaincy has also been collecting gifts for children through Mission Possible, a Christian charity in Torrevieja. Donations, including a
Last year’s gift blessing.
large collection from Carl and Debbie at O’Briens Bar, will be blessed at Masses on Saturday December 27 at 5pm at La Siesta and Sunday December 28 at 11.30am at Lago Jardín before being distributed for The Three Kings.
Contact: Father Richard A Seabrook SSC, frras@blackwater.org.au, 693 932 438.
Credit: Anglican Chaplaincy of St Peter & St Paul, Torrevieja
Lifetime ban
A DISTRICT COURT in Ireland has imposed a lifetime ban on a 63-year-old woman from keeping animals following one of the most serious animal welfare cases in recent years.
Sandra Hennessy, from County Waterford, pleaded guilty to multiple o ences after between 69 and nearly 80 dogs were found living in overcrowded, unsanitary and unhealthy conditions at a property in Ballinamult.
The court heard evidence of untreated infections, prolonged neglect and serious failures to meet the animals’ basic welfare needs. The o ences were prosecuted under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.
Inspectors and welfare o cers had attended the property on several occasions following public complaints, but conditions
deteriorated over time. A large number of dogs were eventually removed and transferred into the care of animal welfare organisations. The court ordered that any remaining animals be immediately surrendered. The judge imposed a four-month prison sentence, suspended, and issued a lifetime prohibition on owning or keeping animals. No nancial penalty was applied due to the defendant’s personal circumstances.
Animal welfare groups welcomed the ruling, describing it as a strong deterrent and a signal that informal animal hoarding and neglect will face serious consequences. Campaigners say the case highlights gaps in early intervention and the need for stronger enforcement to prevent extreme su ering.
WWII bomb found
AUTHORITIES in
Cologne uncovered an unexploded 450kg ‘Hundredweight’ British Second World War bomb during maintenance work in a public park in the city’s southwest.
Due to the presence of a rear-firing detonator, officials immediately established a 500-metre security zone and deployed specialist bomb disposal teams. Roads, public transport and nearby facilities were disrupted as residents were instructed to avoid the area or evacuate if required.
The North Rhine-Westphalia bomb disposal service conducted a careful operation to stabilise and defuse the device. Authorities stressed that despite its age, the bomb remained highly dangerous and even minor disturbance could have triggered detonation. Residents were asked to be patient due to the complexity of the operation.
Cologne’s history of heavy wartime bombing means unexploded ordnance is still regularly discovered across the region. Many of these devices are found annually in North Rhine-Westphalia.
The incident disrupted daily life, including schools and transport schedules, and reminded residents of the lingering physical legacy of the Second World War. Once made safe, officials confirmed the area would be inspected for further devices.
Animal welfare groups welcomed the ruling.
Photo
Future vision
A CHILLING demonstration on Dutch television has reignited global fears over facial-recognition eyewear just as Meta prepares to launch its own AI glasses in 2027.
On Tuesday December 2, tech journalist Alexander Klöpping appeared on a popular talk show wearing prototype smart glasses. As he walked through Amsterdam, the discreet frames instantly identified random passers-by, displaying their full names, jobs and LinkedIn profiles in his field of vision. The data was pulled in
seconds from public sources using off-the-shelf AI – no police databases required.
Klöpping said his aim was to “scare the living daylights out of people” and show how easily anonymity in public can vanish. The stunt went viral, prompting widespread alarm in the Netherlands and beyond.
Privacy expert Pascal Bornet called it a turning point: “We have blurred the line between seeing someone and knowing everything about them.”
Yet the risks are stark:
every wearer becomes a walking surveillance device able to record and identify strangers without consent. Critics warn of stalking, harassment, data breaches and the death of public anonymity - all in breach of GDPR rules. Even if banned, experts say the technology will appear on black markets.
With Meta and others racing to sell consumer models by 2027, campaigners are urging lawmakers to act before ordinary glasses can strip away the basic human right to walk around unnoticed.
Zuckerberg with AI glasses and unsuspecting public.
Credit: Zuck FB & clip from Klöpping video.
No-buy cashback
THE European Union is preparing major changes to how people access cash and protect themselves from payment fraud.
New rules agreed provisionally by the European Council and Parliament would allow shops and supermarkets across the bloc to offer cash withdrawals of up to €150 per transaction with chip and PIN verification and without requiring a purchase.
The aim is to improve daily access to cash as ATMs and bank branches continue to disappear particularly in rural areas. Local grocery stores petrol stations and small shops could soon function as convenient alternatives for people who currently travel long distances to withdraw money.
A central part of the reforms targets the rise in banking and payment scams. Banks and payment providers would need to share real time information on
suspicious activity which would help identify fraud patterns more quickly. IBAN numbers would have to be checked against the recipient name before transfers are approved which extends protections already used for some instant payments.
Consumers would gain stronger protection. Providers that fail to use required anti fraud tools could be held financially responsible for losses. Online platforms would only be able to
promote financial services from companies authorised in the relevant EU country.
The rules also improve transparency around fees. ATM operators must display all charges and exchange rates clearly before customers complete a withdrawal and merchants must receive clearer information about card terminal fees.
The package still awaits final approval but promises easier access to cash stronger fraud safeguards and clearer pricing.
Largest dairy farm
GERMAN industrial engineering company GEA, together with Qatari firm Baladna, is building one of the world’s largest integrated dairy facilities in Algeria, aiming to boost the country’s domestic milk production and reduce its dependence on
imported milk powder.
The project will combine a vast dairy farm with high-capacity processing units capable of producing milk powder and other dairy products for national use and regional export. It reflects a broader trend of Eu-
ropean industrial firms moving large-scale agricultural operations outside the EU, where land availability and regulatory conditions allow for expansion.
Algeria was chosen due to its extensive land, reliable water resources, and government-backed incentives that support long-term agricultural investment. Unlike Spain and Morocco, whose advanced agricultural sectors face land scarcity and tighter environmental rules, Algeria offers the regulatory flexibility and food-security alignment required for a project of this scale.
The facility will house tens of thousands of cattle and include automated milking systems, climate-controlled storage, and industrial milk-powder production technologies supplied by GEA. The integrated model, livestock, processing and distribution within a single hub, aims to secure a stable national supply chain.
Economically, the development is expected to create jobs, strengthen local supply chains and support Algeria’s wider diversification strategy. It also underscores a shift in European agriculture, with major firms exporting technical expertise to regions where large-scale production is more viable.
Euro banknotes as new EU plans aim to simplify cash access.
The facility will house tens of thousands of cattle.
Balcony smoking
NEIGHBOURS can ban smoking on private balconies in Spain if smoke drifts into other homes, courts have repeatedly ruled.
Under Spain’s Horizontal Property Law (Article 7.2), owners and tenants are forbidden from activities in their ats or common areas that are deemed a nuisance, unhealthy or harmful. A simple majority vote at a homeowners’ meeting is enough for a community of owners (comunidad de propietarios) to prohibit smoking on balconies and terraces. The restriction then becomes binding for everyone.
Eurovision 2026 in doubt
SPAIN’S public broadcaster RTVE has withdrawn from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in protest at the European Broadcasting Union’s decision to allow Israel’s singer to compete. Ireland and the Netherlands have also con rmed their exit, marking the largest political boycott the contest has ever faced.
If a resident ignores the new rule, the community president can issue a formal demand to stop. Continued refusal may lead to court action. In past cases, judges have ordered smokers to cease immediately, and some have been required to pay damages and legal costs. Occasional smoking rarely causes problems. Spanish courts focus on repeated, signi cant disturbance – such as chain-smoking that sends
clouds of smoke into neighbouring windows or shared ventilation areas.
Smokers can check existing community rules, attend meetings to oppose proposed bans, or use air puri ers to reduce drift. Challenging a ban in court is possible but seldom succeeds when clear evidence of nuisance exists. Although Spain eased some outdoor smoking restrictions during the pandemic, private balconies within a community remain governed by the Horizontal Property Law. For many smokers, lighting up at home is allowed – until the neighbours vote otherwise.
The row reached its climax on Thursday, December 4 at the EBU General Assembly in Geneva. Under intense pressure from countries demanding Israel’s expulsion over its military actions in Gaza, the EBU avoided a direct vote on removal. Instead, members overwhelmingly approved new rules to curb political interference and voting fraud, including restoring 50 per cent professional jury and stricter voting limits.
Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Ireland and Iceland had all threatened to
leave unless Israel was barred. They dismissed the reforms as inadequate.
RTVE Secretary General Alfonso Morales said before the vote: “We recognise the measures adopted, but we consider them insu cient. The geopolitical context makes it increasingly di cult to maintain Eurovision as a neutral cultural event.”
Germany had warned it would withdraw if Israel was excluded, while host
nation Austria strongly backed Israel’s inclusion. The split has exposed deep divisions among the 37 participating broadcasters. With two major countries already out and others wavering, the Vienna contest next May faces an unprecedented crisis. Once celebrated as a symbol of European unity through music, Eurovision now stands accused of irreparable politicisation.
A quick cigarette on the balcony.
Credit: Photo Smoothies - Shutterstock
Yuval Raphael for Israel 2025.
Ibi: Toys, traditions and local celebrations
IBI, in Alicante Province, is internationally known for its toy industry and artisan workshops. The town combines modern production with historic streets and lively plazas. Visitors in campervans will find it accessible, with parking and facilities conveniently located close to the main attractions.
Designated areas for campervans are available near the main streets and public facilities. Services such as waste disposal points and water refill stations make longer stops practical. Some central streets are narrow, so careful driving is advised. Once parked, most shops, museums, and cafés can be reached on foot, making exploration straightforward.
Toy workshops and museums Ibi has been producing toys for over a century, and its museums and workshops dis-
Markets and local flavours Weekly markets and local shops showcase regional products, including cured meats, cheeses, almonds, and pastries.
Bakeries offer seasonal treats such as turrón at Christmas,
events throughout the year, such as the annual Toy Fair, which highlights local workshops and creative displays. The Moors and Christians festival, held in April or May, features parades, traditional music, and historical reenactments.
SUMMARY
Ibi combines craft, seasonal events, and regio-
Chocolates withdrawn
SPAIN’S festive season has barely begun and a common Christmas tradition has already sparked a new food-safety alert. As families start the countdown to Christmas Eve with chocolate-filled advent calendars, the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (Aesan) issued an urgent warning on Thursday December 4 about a product mainly aimed at children.
Aesan reports that an advent calendar on sale contains several allergenic ingredients not listed in Spanish, creating a serious risk for anyone with allergies or intolerances. This lack of mandatory information violates food-labelling rules and may leave consumers unaware of ingredients that could harm their health. The undeclared allergens include milk, soya, hazelnuts, other nuts, egg, wheat and gluten, meaning families cannot ve-
rify whether the chocolate is safe.
The alert concerns the Milka Pop-Up 3D advent calendar, the version featuring a small three-dimensional Christmas tree, marketed by Mondelez International. The affected lot is CWS1252831 with a best-before date of March 31, 2026.
The product has been distributed in several regions, including Andalucia, Aragon, Catalonia, the Valencian Community, Galicia, Murcia and the Basque Country. Through the Sciri rapid-information system, regional authorities are ensuring its withdrawal from sale.
Anyone allergic to the listed ingredients should not consume the product. For all others, the calendar remains safe, as the issue concerns labelling only. Mondelez states that the recipe and quality are unaffected and that only this specific lot is impacted.
Population growth
SPAIN’S population has reached 49,128,297, the highest recorded, with an annual increase of over 500,000, the largest since 2008. Immigration is the main driver, as natural growth remains negative, with roughly 322,000 births compared to 462,000 deaths. Without migrants and long-term expatriates, Spain’s population would have declined, highlighting immigration’s role in countering low birth rates and an ageing population.
Growth is concentrated in urban and coastal areas. Madrid and Catalonia saw the largest increases, while Valencia and Andalucia also grew due to European expatriates from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy.
Rural areas, including Castilla y Leon, Aragon, and Extremadura, continue to shrink as younger residents leave and local birth rates stay low. Urban concentration strains housing, healthcare, and public services.
Latin American nationals, particularly from Venezuela, Colombia, and Peru, along with Moroccan migrants, form the largest immigrant groups. European expatriates further boost population and contribute economically through taxes, social security, and labour in agriculture, healthcare, hospitality, and logistics, while enriching local communities.
The government supports immigration with streamli-
ned residency and work policies, recognising its importance for demographic and economic stability. Public opinion generally accepts these benefits despite concerns about urban pressures. Spain’s demographic future will rely on managed migration, regional support, and initiatives to raise birth rates, ensuring that immigrants and expatriates remain central to the country’s population, economy, and society.
Consumers should check lot number CWS1252831 .
Credit: AESAN
The government supports immigration with streamlined residency and work policies.
COSTA BLANCA SOUTH
Brightening butterflies
THE popular tabletop sales at The Club Quesada return on Saturday, December 13, for the last event of the year, and organisers are calling on the community to make it the biggest and best yet. Running from 10.30am to 2.00pm at The Club in the Ciudad Quesada, Pueblo Bravo area, the indoor sale offers a perfect pre-Christmas opportunity to grab bargains on everything from clothes, books, toys, and household items to handmade crafts and festive gifts.
Community sale raises funds for DEBRA Spain’s fragile-skin Butterfly Children charity.
Sellers can secure a table for just €6; they need only send a private message to the organiser to reserve your spot while spaces last. Buyers are welcome to turn up on the day, entry is free, and there’s plenty of parking and refreshments available.
Not only this, every euro raised will go directly to DEBRA Spain, the national charity supporting people living with
epidermolysis bullosa (EB), often known as ‘Butterfly Children’. EB is a rare and painful genetic condition that causes extremely fragile skin that tears easily from friction. The skin of those who suffer with EB is said to be as fragile as a butterfly’s wing.
Join the Quesada community on Saturday, December 13 from 10.30am to 2.00pm at The Club Quesada and help make this last event of the year a festive success for DEBRA’s Butterfly Children.
Metal merriment
SANTA POLA is ringing in the holiday season with an incredible 13th edition of its ‘Navirock’ festival, bringing live music, entertainment, and a rock ‘n’ roll spirit to the municipality just in time for Christmas. This year’s edition, Navirock ‘25, will kick off with young, talented local musicians between the ages of 13 and 17 years old, followed by rock, metal, and punk bands that will leave crowds headbanging and amped up for the holidays.
Bands participating in this year’s event include Insurgentes, Hellvetios, Rockin’n Six, and Metal Toys, who will offer a quality and diverse range of rock styles, ensuring there will be something for all audiences. There will be solidarity stands for local organisations, artisan crafts
made by local artists, costume jewellry, and recycled clothing available at the event.
The festival is also open to donations of non-perishable food and hygiene products that will be donated to local charity organisations, keeping a festive spirit and making sure everyone in the municipality of Santa Pola has enough to go around
this Christmas. The 13th edition of Navirock will take place on December 19 from 6.00pm, in the side tent of the Castillo Fortaleza. The admission will be completely free, and rock music fans are not advised to miss out on this incredible and gracious event.
Photo Credit: Eddybullman Club de Fans / YouTube
Santa Pola’s festive Navirock returns with music, charity, raffles and joy.
Heavenly Haizea
RESTAURANT REVIEW
LOCATED in the heart of Orihuela, a local gem awaits visitors with a modern and inviting ambiance, perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Gastrobar Haizea, a clean, contemporary, and welcoming Orihuela restaurant, has an elegant, yet cosy vibe that lures visitors in … but the delicious menu is what makes them stay.
The menu at Gastrobar Haizea is creative, versatile, and inventive. From unique Mediterranean-fusion dishes to hearty meats, fresh seafood, and vegetarian options, the menu is a flavourful blend for every possible favour.
Popular items among regular patrons include the restaurant’s delicious croquetas, tataki or tartarstyle tuna, or succulent meats, including slowcooked oxtail or entrecôte. The atmosphere in this beautiful restaurant is relaxed, but stylish and modern, apt for both a quiet dinner and a casual brunch among friends.
Indoor and outdoor seating options give the place a cosy and laid-back feel, adding to the restaurant’s appeal and providing both a comfortable and memorable outing for a solo diner or a whole family.
Those in Orihuela looking for a restaurant with thoughtful cooking, a friendly and warm
atmosphere, and an elegant and stylish air, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options, Gastrobar Haizea, is a wonderful choice, a local gem that merges flavour, comfort, and hospitality.
Avenida Teodomiro, 17, Orihuela, T. 604 422 606
gastrobarhaizea. eatbu.com/?lang=es
Lansdowne Friday nights
FRIDAY nights at Lansdowne Irish Bar in Playa Flamenca, Orihuela, just easily flow together with fun, music, and dancing.
The bar invites locals and visitors to kick off the weekend in style, offering a lively atmosphere, energetic music, and plenty of opportunities to hit the dance floor. “Make sure you don’t miss out next Friday, get yourself a drink and a dance - it is the weekend after all,” the bar encourages. Tables are advised to be booked in advance, as the venue fills quickly during weekend evenings.
Established in October 2001, Lansdowne has been a cornerstone of Playa Flamenca’s nightlife for over 20 years. Known for nightly en-
tertainment, including live music, DJ sets, and themed events, it appeals to both locals and tourists. Its relaxed and friendly environment makes it perfect for casual evenings, celebrations, or social gatherings.
Sports fans can catch all major rugby matches and sporting events on big screens while enjoying drinks as well. Recent updates allow
all credit and debit card payments for convenience.
The hours of operation are as follows: Monday to Friday 4pm1am, Saturday 1pm1am, and Sunday 2pm1am, ensuring access for early birds and night owls alike.
Dance the night away this Friday, or any other, as Lansdowne combines entertainment, drinks, and community.
Creative, cosy Orihuela gastrobar serving gluten-free dishes with warm hospitality.
Photo Credit: Gastrobar Haizea
Friday nights are made for dancing at The Landsdowne Irish Bar.
Bohemian brilliance
RESIDENTS and visitors in Torrevieja are in for a special performance whose production will take their breath away. The Ars Creatio Cultural Association is preparing to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year with an incredible performance of ‘Luces de Bohemia’, or Bohemian Lights, a work by Ramón María del Valle-Inclán that mixes comical, caricatural elements and a sharp criticism of Spain in the 20s. The performance follows the journey of Max Estrella, a struggling poet afflicted by blindness due to developing syphilis, and his inseparable friend, Latino de Híspalis, as they traverse an ‘absurd, brilliant and hungry Madrid’. An extensive gallery of colourful characters accompany the protagonists
in this satire. The production will stand out for its impeccable staging, combining traditional theatre with a modern approach to bring this classic work closer to current audiences and allowing them to connect more with the source material.
The performance will take place at the Municipal Theatre of Torrevieja on Thursday, December 18, at 8.30pm.
Tickets are available from €5 at the theatre box office. Playgoers can pay with cash or credit card.
Interested visitors are not advised to miss out on what is sure to be a wonderful way to ring in the holiday season, a great time to appreciate
THE London Tavern, the much-loved British bar and café perched above Mercadona in the heart of Gran Alacant’s Commercial Centre, is kicking off the festive season in style with its hugely popular Christmas Afternoon Tea on Thursday December 18.
For just €25 per person, guests will enjoy bottomless drinks from 3.30pm, including free-flowing Prosecco, Cava, house wine, Tinto de Verano, bottles of
Tavern tea
Mahou, Sex on the Beach cocktails, and house spirit and mixer (vodka, gin or white rum).
It’s the perfect excuse to raise a glass (or several) for the holidays.
The festive spread is pure Christmas comfort: warm mince pies, rich Christmas cake, muffins, quiche, cheese scones, sausage rolls, turkey and stuffing sandwiches, classic cheese savoury
and egg mayo fillings … everything that makes a proper British festive afternoon tea irresistible. With demand expected to be high, booking is essential. Places can be secured quickly by scanning the QR code on the venue’s posters or via the London Tavern website and Facebook page. Doors open at 3.30pm on Thursday, December 18.
A modern staging revives Valle-Inclán’s satirical masterpiece in Torrevieja.
London Tavern launches festive afternoon tea with bottomless drinks and live music.
Spain’s non paying tenants
NON-PAYMENT of rent is a common and serious issue for landlords in Spain, often causing signi cant nancial strain, especially for those with mortgages or ongoing property expenses. Tenants may fall behind due to nancial hardship, contractual misunderstandings, or disputes over property conditions. Spanish tenancy law provides a structured process for reclaiming rent and, if necessary, pursuing eviction, but the procedure can be slow and legally complex.
The rst recommended step is open communication with the tenant, supported by written records of missed payments. If this fails, landlords should send a burofax, a certi ed legal notice that serves as formal evidence of the tenant’s default. If payment is still not made, landlords may le a claim at the Civil Court. The court can issue a payment order and hear any disputes raised by the tenant, which can prolong proceedings. Continued non-payment may lead to desahucio por impago, an eviction action that
typically takes three to six months if uncontested but can extend further if appealed. Legal fees, court costs, and administrative expenses can accumulate, though some may be recoverable if the court rules in the landlord’s favour.
Expatriate landlords face additional challenges such as language barriers and unfamiliarity with local regulations. Hiring a bilingual lawyer, asesor or property manager, using electronic payment systems, and ensuring contracts are legally compliant can greatly reduce risks and help navigate Spain’s tenancy laws e ectively.
Youths struggle in Spain
YOUNG adults across Spain are struggling to live independently as soaring rents, rising in ation and higher everyday costs tighten monthly budgets. Housing is the biggest pressure point: by 2024, renters were spending around 47 per cent of their gross income on rent, compared with 38 per cent in 2019. Wage growth has failed to keep pace. The average gross salary is roughly €27,060 a year, while rental prices rose 14 per cent in 2024, reaching €13.29 per m². A typical 80 m² at now costs more than €1,060 a month, far beyond what many young workers can a ord. Higher energy bills, transport costs and food prices have eroded disposable income even further, leaving little room for savings or emergency funds. Many young people say they can only manage by sharing ats or living with partners or family. The chances of buying a home
are even slimmer: deposits of €20,000 or more remain out of reach for most, and renters report that even one-bedroom ats that once cost €300 now exceed €550 before utilities.
The crisis a ects expats too, many of whom face the same low wages and high rents. Shared housing
has become the norm well into adulthood, while milestones such as starting a family are increasingly delayed. Analysts warn that without meaningful reforms - from boosting a ordable housing to addressing stagnant wages - Spain risks locking an entire generation into longterm nancial insecurity.
The first recommended step is open communication with the tenant.
Photo credit: Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Shutterstock
Many young people say they can only manage by sharing flats.
Photo credit:
Your
Do you still use cash? VOICE
A recent poll asking this simple but revealing question highlighted just how divided people remain over their everyday payment habits.
WHILE digital wallets and contactless cards continue to surge in popularity, many respondents expressed a strong attachment to physical currency, emphasising practical benefits as well as personal principles behind their choices. The poll drew a lively mix of opinions, ranging from staunch supporters of cash to those who have long left notes and coins behind.
Many contributors stressed that cash remains central to their daily routines. For some, it is about habit, convenience, or a sense of control. As Justin Bolt put it, he uses cash “99 per cent of the time.” Caz Pritch echoed a familiar sentiment: “Yes, as cash is King.” That refrain appeared repeatedly, with both Sheena Hutson and Juliet James stating plainly, “Cash is King.” Patricia M Judge added, “Yes, every time possible,” while Carole Penman noted, “Yes most of the time, it keeps me focused on my spending.” Val Edlin agreed, saying, “Certainly do, I like to know where my money is.”
A number of respondents emphasised the importance of supporting local businesses. Susan Wallace remarked, “Yes, helps small businesses keep costs down,” a point also raised by Marion Isabel Atkins, who explained, “Yes, helps local businesses, people don’t realise that banks charge interest
on card machine purchases.” In the same vein, Andy Solomons said, “Yes. Always in bars, restaurants and small shops. They don’t need the expense of card processing, and it’s easier to tip.” Tony Wallace reinforced this practical stance: “Use it or lose it. Most definitely yes !!”
Several people described specific situations where cash remains vital. Angela Edgley prefers notes and coins in small establishments, explaining, “Always cash in cafes and restaurants. Always cash when buying from small businesses and at our local market.” Catherine Katy Leuz added that she always keeps some on her because “there’s been many times when the supermarket’s card payment system has failed.”
Ter Ami offered a personal anecdote about managing loose change in cafés and parking, while Judith D Altavista shared that her choice depends on the purchase, using cash for everyday items and cards for bigger expenses.
Yet not everyone still relies on notes. James Jupp admitted, “I’ve not used cash in years,” while Elle Case Burge declared, “2025 believe it or not, Apple pay all the way!”
Overall, most people responding to the poll said they still use cash - often, regularly, and with strong reasons behind their preference.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Qida appointment
QIDA has named Jordi Tusell its new Director of the Public Sector after two decades in leadership posts. He previously served as Managing Director for Spain at Falck and spent 20 years at ISS Facility Services. Tusell holds business qualifications from Esade and IESE.
Crypto property
THE UK has passed the Property (Digital Assets etc) Act 2025, formally recognising crypto such as bitcoin and stablecoins as a new third category of property. Industry body CryptoUK says this gives digital assets a ‘clearer legal footing’ for ownership and criminal cases.
HL appointment
HARGREAVES LANSDOWN has appointed Vanguard’s Doug Abbott as chief product officer, overseeing its £11bn HL Fund Management range and leading third-party partnerships. Abbott, formerly in senior roles at Schroders before joining Vanguard in 2024, will be reporting to CEO Richard Flint.
Spanish services
SPAIN’S services sector kept growing in November but at a slightly slower pace, the HCOB PMI showed. The index dipped to 55.6 from 56.6, still signalling solid growth for a 27th month. Domestic demand stayed strong, though international sales fell.
Dakhla investment
A CANARY ISLANDS business delegation visited Dakhla in the Moroccan Sahara to explore investment opportunities, particularly in port, maritime, and logistics sectors. The group met regional authorities and toured the Dakhla Atlantic port project, which FEDEPORT said offers major strategic opportunities.
STAT OF WEEK
UK 0% tariff
THE US will exempt UK-made pharmaceuticals, ingredients and medical technology from new tariffs, making Britain the only country in the world to secure a zero per cent rate on pharmaceutical exports to America.
The agreement, part of the UK–US Economic Prosperity Deal, protects more than £5 billion in annual UK medicine exports and aims to strengthen Britain’s position as a leading life-sciences hub.
The government says
7.4%
the deal will su pport thousands of skilled jobs and reinfor ce confidence among global firms. Companies including Moderna, Bristol Myers Squibb and BioNTech have recently committed major new investments in the UK.
As part of the package, the UK will invest around 25 per cent more in innovative, safe and effective treatments - the first significant increase in more than two decades. The reforms will allow
UK phone networks
FOUR of the UK’s biggest mobile networks – O2, Vodafone, EE, and Three – are facing a £1.1 billion class action lawsuit over claims they overcharged millions of customers on mobile phone contracts.
The case, certified by the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), alleges that customers on bundled handset-and-airtime deals continued paying for phones they had already repaid, rather than being moved to cheaper SIM-only tariffs. The operators deny wrongdoing, and the Tribunal has not yet ruled on liability.
The claim covers an estimated 10.9 million contracts taken out between October 1, 2015, and March 31, 2025, with potential compensation ‘up to around £104 per contract’ if the case succeeds.
M&S live event
MARKS & SPENCER has begun a five-day festive Live Shopping event as it taps into surging demand for entertainment-led e-commerce. Streaming via Facebook and Instagram, the series features UK influencers offering advice across fashion, beauty, gifting and hosting. M&S research shows 40 per cent of shoppers plan to spend the same as last year, prompting curated offers for all price points. Daily themed broadcasts aim to make Christmas purchasing ‘stress-free’ while reflecting consumers’ shift toward social-first shopping experiences.
The total expenditure of international tourists visiting Spain in October increased by 7.4 per cent and reached €12,785 million.
lue medicines that might previously have been declined on cost-effectiveness grounds, including breakthrough cancer therapies and treatments for rare diseases.
The confirmed tariff exemption applies for at least three years and covers:
• Finished UK pharmaceuticals
• Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
• UK-origin medical technologies
While the deal focuses on UK access, it has wider implications for Ireland, which remains subject to US tariffs of up to 15 per cent on EU-manufactured medicines. Ireland is one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical exporters, with around 80 per cent of its US-bound goods made up of medicines.
A CAT judgment published on November 14, 2025, confirmed that the claim could proceed on an opt-out basis, meaning eligible UK customers are automatically included unless they choose to opt out.
Gamesa Electric acquired
ABB has completed its acquisition of Gamesa Electric’s power electronics business from Siemens Gamesa, strengthening its position in high-power renewable energy conversion. The deal, first announced in December 2024, includes wind converters, BESS systems and utility-scale solar inverters, alongside around 400 employees and two factories in Madrid and Valencia. Financial terms were not disclosed. ABB confirmed that Gamesa Electric generated approximately €145 million in revenue in the year to September 30, 2025. The Swiss group has also signed a supply and services agreement with Siemens Gamesa as it expands its global footprint in clean-energy technologies.
THE OECD expects the UK to be the third-fastest growing G7 economy in 2026, forecasting GDP growth of 1.2 per cent. In its latest report, the Paris-based organisation warned Chancellor Rachel Reeves that tight public spending and higher taxes could restrain consumer demand. The UK is projected to outperform France, Germany, and Italy, but lag behind the US, forecast to grow 1.7 per cent. The OECD said fiscal constraints and weak household confidence remain key challenges as the government seeks to sustain economic momentum next year.
ZIPCAR is consulting on shutting its UK operations by year-end, telling customers it has suspended all new bookings beyond December 31, 2025. The US-based car-sharing firm, which has over 650,000 UK members and more than 3,000 vehicles, said employees have entered formal consultation. Subscription holders will receive pro-rated refunds, and those with 2026 bookings will be contacted. No reason for the proposed closure was given, despite recent expansion.
BIOMETHANE developer Cycle0 has commissioned two new plants in Manlleu (Barcelona) and Artajona (Navarra), bringing its Spanish operational portfolio to seven sites. Each facility converts cattle waste into up to 120 Nm3/h of biomethane, using upgrading technology from FNX, a Cycle0 subsidiary. The renewable gas will be injected into the network via a virtual pipeline. Cycle0 said the projects support local farmers and advance Spain’s Biogas Roadmap.
ZARA has reopened its fully redesigned Diagonal Avenue store in Barcelona, one of its most luxurious spaces and the first created by Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen. Inditex president Marta Ortega attended the launch, part of the brand’s accelerated repositioning strategy. The premium-focused concept reflects Zara’s global shift toward higher-value collections. Zara and Zara Home contribute 72 per cent of Inditex revenue (€27.7 billion in 2024).
BP 462,05 466,20 460,85 1,7M British American Tobacco 4.343,0 4.343,0 4.282,0 240,24K BT Group 176,60 177,75 176,05 573,09K
2.154,0 2.166,0 2.142,0 60,02K
170,03 170,95 169,70 684,42K
3.710,0 3.674,0 33,53K
2.349,00 2.355,02 2.324,00 140,83K
Cushman & Wakefield
CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD has appointed Álvaro Alonso as managing partner for its residential and corporate finance practice in Spain. He joins from EY, where he led M&A services in the financial sector, following a long career at Colliers International in senior corporate finance roles.
BOE announcement
BANK OF ENGLAND’S Andrew Bailey warned financial risks increased in 2025 due to geopolitics and stretched asset prices, especially in AI-related markets. Even so, stress tests show UK banks remain resilient, with capital requirements lowered to around 13 per cent.
Tesla sales slip
TESLA’S new car sales in Spain dipped in November even as the wider market for electrified vehicles (EVs) doubled, according to fresh registration data from Spain’s automotive industry.
Figures published on December 1, show that Tesla registered 1,523 new cars in Spain last month, an 8.75 per cent fall compared with November 2024, industry association ANFAC confirmed. Over the first 11 months of 2025, Tesla’s Spanish sales were still up 5.56 per cent year on year.
Total registrations of
electrified vehicles – fully electric (BEV) and plug-in
Rioja winery restructures
BODEGAS SONSIERRA, Rioja’s second-largest bottling cooperative, will convert into a Limited Liability Company after 87 per cent of members approved the change, aiming to become “more agile and competitive across global markets,” general manager Luis Del Águila Rodríguez said. Founded in 1961, the group became the first Rioja cooperative to market bottled wine and
is known for incentivising growers to preserve old vines by paying double for grapes from these parcels. Members will remain shareholders, though the board will be dissolved. Del Águila said the shift removes slow decision-making requirements and resolves challenges linked to returning capital when members retire, reflecting a broader national decline in cooperatives.
hybrid (PHEV) models –surged in November. ANFAC reported 23,367 electrified vehicles registered in the month, up 103.8 per cent compared with November 2024 and representing 20.77 per cent of the overall market across all vehicle types, according to the association’s monthly bulletin (ANFAC).
For passenger cars alone, electrified turismos reached 21,315 registrations last month and 22.65 per cent of that segment - essentially twice their share a year earlier.
Spain’s new-car market grew 12.9 per cent in November to 94,124 registrations, bringing 2025’s yearto-date total to 1,045,638 vehicles, up 14.7 per cent on the same period of 2024. Even so, sales remain 9.3 per cent below 2019 levels, according to figures compiled by ANFAC alongside dealer associations Faconauto and Ganvam.
Saab systems
SAAB has confirmed the Spanish Army’s first order for its Individual Duel Simulation systems under a new framework agreement worth up to €34 million. The package includes GAMER live training equipment and soldier systems, to be delivered with local partner Tecnobit and deployed across multiple regiments in Spain.
IESE leads Spain
IESE is Spain’s top performer in the Financial Times 2025 European Business School Rankings, placing fifth overall. Esade and IE Business School also score strongly - 11th and 21st. The UK sees standout results for London Business School (third) and Oxford Saïd (14th). Rankings span 100 institutions.
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO.
AI is getting to me
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS
THINK IT
WOW, ‘Leapy’s law’ experienced a knockback recently, but only just. Apparently, the Airbus A320 has been affected by a blip in the computer, causing some to vertically descend at an alarming rate. Some 6,000 aircraft were involved but, surprise surprise, not the one the ol’ Leaper had entrenched on.
Normally it was more likely I would have been a passenger on the only one affected! Thankful for small mercies. So here I am back in the ol’ country again. Whatever else has changed it certainly hasn’t been the weather. Dull and drizzly at the mo. Hopefully it will clear, because tomorrow I’m invited to emulate our beloved Santa and go up and down a chimney in Battersea power station. Hope my sack of gifts doesn’t get stuck half way!
The route we are taking is quite a surprise. Apparently, you can now call an Uber on the Thames.
Not one with four wheels of course but they now have passenger craft in the form of a boat. Let’s hope the skipper doesn’t want to discuss politics! Another treat in store is a bit of jazz in the Troubadour. A wonderful old venue which has been operating for some 70 years. Apparently (performing under the pseudonym Blind Boy Grunt) Bob Dylan would take the occasional set in the basement. Worked it myself many moons ago! So, looking forward to that.
Although my regular perusers will know how much I am in opposition to graffiti, the only artist I truly admire is Banksy. This excellent exponent of art and free speech has an exhibition of 250 works on view, which we will also be experiencing. So, lots to look forward to. I see the Christmas lights are now up. Will be in the West End enjoying those at some stage. Have already observed Putney High Street. Rather a sparse and somewhat gloomy exhibition there. Probably trying to save money. I bet the West End isn’t in the same category.
Not that I truly enjoy plugging myself, I delighted to make an exception and announce my two upcoming gigs on the mainland. On December 17 I shall be attempting a warble in Torrevieja, with one performance in the afternoon and one in the evening. I understand tickets are going well, but it would be a pleasure to see any of the ol’ boys’ readers could they make it.
Couldn’t help but finish on a somewhat uneasy note this week. It’s all the controversy around AI that’s getting to me. Do you realise that one day all entertainers, including newscasters and journalists will be out of a job? AI can replace everyone! It really is a bit disquieting. It can even arrange for you to converse coherently with departed relatives. Basically, one day in the not too distant future, we will not be able to completely believe in anything or anyone? (Rachael Reeves comes to mind!)
Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Spanish Memory Law
A FLOOD of applications for Spanish nationality is underway.
Descendants of exiles and emigrants are forced to queue outside Spanish consulates.
Since 2022, the Memory Law has opened the door to children or grandchildren of Spanish exiles - many from Latin America - to reclaim citizenship.
By late 2025, more than 2.3 million people have sought to benefit: over one million applications submitted, plus 1.3 million still waiting for consular appointments. Around 237,000 new nationalities had been granted by September.
Argentina alone accounts for more than 40 per cent of the demand. Cuba, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Venezuela follow behind, reflecting decades of Spanish migration across continents.
For many applicants, this is more than paperwork: it is a second chance - a symbolic reconnection with origin, a legal recognition of history, identity and belonging, often across generations.
Yet the surge has overloaded Spain’s consular network of 178 offices worldwide. Even after the October 2025 deadline, countless applicants remain in limbo, facing potentially long waits before their paperwork is fully processed. Some could wait years - or even lose the chance to see the resolution.
The Memory Law wave is more than a bureaucratic moment; it is a global expression of identity - of history reclaimed, roots acknowledged and citizenship restored.
Credit: Maxx-Studio / Shutterstock
Tracks, tremors & towering terrors
FROM COAST TO COAST
LUCCA
FROM Malaga to CaliforniaNo Planes
I like the motion in my feet… maybe it’s because I’m from California, where the San Andreas Fault shakes your co ee every other morning - you don’t even need a stirrer! - so when I stepped o the QM2 in Brooklyn, I missed that sway. Even standing still after a cruise, you keep feeling that subtle motion - the kind you make listening to your favourite tunes. Did you hear about last December 5? We had a 4.1 tremor on the Costa del Sol! Real, not just a cat leaping on your bed or our neighbour bungee-jumping from the lamp.
The rst leg was done. From Malaga to California, the experiment was underway. Now, the next adventure started at Penn Station, NYC - from serene sea to chaotic city in one ticket. The crowds, announcements, rolling luggage - it’s a wonder anyone gets anywhere.
Ah, the Big Apple… coined by racetrack gamblers in the 1920s, later jazz musicians’ badge of honour: “There are many apples on the tree, but only one Big Apple.” If you could make it here, you could make it anywhere.
Next stop: Chicago. Nineteen, 20 hours on the train, landscapes sliding past like a living movie. Naturally, I made a soundtrack:
“Albany waves, Syracuse in snow, Bu alo wings and Chicago winds blow!”
“Rolling past Albany, snow in Syracuse,
Bu alo wings, Cleveland rocks, Chicago’s wind lets loose!”
By song’s end, sleep claimed me… and most of the cities.
Union Station is a dream - BeauxArts vaulted ceilings, enormous columns, golden-age grandeur. I felt like a gangster movie extra, minus the danger.
A brisk walk outside nearly claimed my hat and wig, courtesy of Chicago’s gusts. My scarf even tried to escape.
Then, the Sears Tower (Willis Tower) - 110 oors! Could you imagine leaving your o ce up there and realising you forgot your keys… and the elevators aren’t working? I’d rather quit my job! I braved The Ledge on the 103rd oor, 4.3 feet of glass over the city, 1,353 feet below!
Hesitation quickly gave way to seles. Nothing says “I’m braver than my fear of heights” like dangling over a skyscraper. And yet… I still don’t like ying. Give me a train, the scenery rolling by, the gentle sway of the tracks, and the rhythm in my feet.
NYC - Chicago is long - 19 to 20 hours. I saved a Roomette for the longer haul: Chicago - Los Angeles, which I’ll share in my next column - crossing the Southwest, countless states, and legendary Route 66. Tumbleweeds, diners with neon so bright I’ll need sunglasses, and gas stations that look designed by aliens. Maybe a cowboy in ip- ops.
For now, I’ll savour city lights fading, the wind, the tracks… and the rhythm in my feet.
And the bu et… Vegas, you are known for epic ones - here I come! I fully intend to eat like a tourist who just won the lottery… probably nap on the slot machines afterward.
A homage to Mickey
YOU might not recognise the name Jose Garcia Padilla, but adults and children across Spain have grown up listening to his voice. For 34 years, the actor has lent his voice to the world’s most famous rodent: Mickey Mouse.
His years of dedication to Disney were recognised recently, as Padilla was appointed an honorary member of Club Mickey, the Spanish Association of Disney Fans.
Club Mickey is a nationwide fan collective that channels their passion for Disney into charitable endeavours. They frequently organise meets ups, support social causes and aim to spotlight the Spanish talent that have brought their magical universe to life.
Walt’s Originals, an animation art gallery in Madrid was the host of Padilla’s appointment. He was introduced by club president, Jon Valera, to gleeful applause. A Q&A even followed, where Padilla spoke on his experience and his connection to Mickey Mouse who was originally voiced by Walt Disney himself.
Jose Padilla is the Spanish voice of many iconic animated characters: Principal Skinner in The Simpsons, Fozzy Bear in The Muppets, Doctor Zoidberg and General Zapp Branningan in Futurama. If you’ve ever spent a night in a Spanish hotel room with limited TV channels, chances are you’ve heard this man’s work.
Guardia Civil celebrated
THE Spanish Guardia Civil and ONCE Foundation have earned international recognition recently, after being awarded a ‘Zero Project Award 2026’ for their innovative Pictogram Guide.
The Pictogram Guide is a visual tool that enables o cers to e ectively assist individuals who have intellectual disabilities, cognitive di culties, speech disorders or hearing impairments.
An initial general-purpose page helps the Guardia Civil to determine a person’s condition. Once the problem has been identi ed, o cers turn to a corresponding page which contains a logical sequence of speci c actions in the hope of easily resolving the issue. It also facilitates communication with migrants and tourists. All but erasing language barriers, the guide has become an instrumental tool for the Guardia Civil. Its inclusion in the Zero Project’s global database marks it as an international triumph in accessibility.
The Zero Project Awards were crea-
ted in 2008 with the aim of rewarding projects that directly impacted and bene ted people with disabilities. Of the 568 applications submitted for this year’s awards, only 75 were selected to participate in the upcoming Zero Project International Conference, taking place in Vienna in February 2026.
Being recognised with such an honour reinforces the Guardia Civil’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups as part of its 2021-2025 Sustainability Plan, while promoting a more human, inclusive and accessible approach to policing.
MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA
Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Guardia Civil wins global accessibility Award for Pictogram Guide.
Jose Padilla, the Spanish voice of Mickey Mouse.
Credit: Mickeymania
A mindful Christmas
Credit: Shutterstock, shidiqwa
CHRISTMAS is a time for family, celebrating and giving, but it can also bring an unexpected amount of waste. With a little intention, it’s possible to spread the Christmas cheer, while being kinder on the planet.
Durable ornaments are a good way to cut down holiday wastage. Investing in long-lasting Christmas decorations you love not only helps the environment, it helps you save money each year. Decorating with natural elements like pine cones or dried citrus, is a great way to bring seasonal beauty into your home too.
When it comes to gift-giving, instead of buying useless items that are going to collect dust, consider the gift of making memories: plan
a day trip, attend a class or workshop, even a gift card to a beloved restaurant. Home-made gifts, like baked good, candles or crafted trinkets, come from the heart, adding a personal touch and eliminate excessive spending or package waste.
Wrapping paper is the biggest waste of the holiday season. Consider swapping out the traditional rolls for reusable fabrics - two gifts in one! Recycling old newspapers is also a great way to help the environment and can make for a surprising stylish gift.
A low-waste Christmas isn’t about doing less. Being more mindful, less wasteful also makes for a more meaningful Christmas celebration.
Seasonal Spanish sweets
SPENDING Christmas in Spain is a magical time. From the lights that decorate the streets, to the Christmas markets held in local squares, there’s so much to explore and take part in. There’s also so many new seasonal treats you have to try, to get that authentic Spanish Christmas experience:
Turrón: A Spanish nougat of sort, turrón comes in soft (blando) and hard (duro) varieties with a variety of different additional flavours. It’s a Spanish Christmas staple.
Polvorones & Mantecados: Crumbly, buttery and melt-in-your-mouth shortbread biscuits are available in so many flavours. They pair perfectly with a steam cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Roscón de Reyes: This round, sweet bread is traditionally eaten on January 6. It often hides a small surprise inside, and who whoever finds it is crowned king or queen for the day!
Mazapàn: The almond delicacy is shaped into tiny fruits or figures and is a big hit throughout December.
Whether you’re an expatriate adjusting to Christmas in Spain, or a tourist visiting for the holidays, these delicious treats are
essential part of the festive season.
Immerse your self in the Spani sh traditions this Christmas, for an unforgettable cele bration.
Glittery glow up
FESTIVE celebrations invite a touch of sparkle and many people look forward to adding a little extra shine to their make-up at Christmas. The challenge is to capture a radiant glow without stepping into glitter explosion territory. A calm and thoughtful approach creates a look that feels elegant, confident and full of seasonal charm.
Preparation begins with smooth hydrated skin. A light moisturiser allows make-up to glide on evenly and creates a natural base that reflects light in a soft way. A subtle shimmer works beautifully on the eyelids. Choose gentle tones such as champagne or soft rose and press a small amount onto the centre of the lid for a bright but controlled highlight. A sweep of mascara defines the eyes without overwhelming the sparkle.
Cheeks benefit from a creamy blush that brings warmth to the comple-
ghlighter along the cheekbones adds radiance yet remains refined. Lips look festive with a satin finish in berry or classic red. A dab of gloss in the centre creates a plump effect without becoming too dazzling. Balance is the secret. Focus the sparkle on one feature and keep the rest softly polished. This creates a beautiful Christmas glow that feels joyful and sophisticated.
Mental health goes digital
IN this digital age, there’s an app for everything, including managing your mental health and making sure you are prioritising self-care.
These apps all serve different purposes and are designed to help you excel during various points in your dayto-day well-being routine. Some apps help you organise and understand your feelings, some help you learn new coping skills, some have the sole purpose of helping you even out your breathing.
One popular app gets you to take care of a ‘virtual pet’ by taking care of yourself. It’s a glorified to-do list, with easy to accomplish tasks such as ‘drink water’, ‘go for a walk’. The more you look after yourself, the more your virtual pet grows.
and mental health support is clearly a positive development, there are potential risk factors. Lack of data privacy, poor quality control and high demand causing burnout are chief amongst them.
There has also been an uptake in online, on-demand therapy services. Whe re once you’d have to look through the yellow pages to find the right match, online therapy servi ces can now pair you up with a therapist from anywhere in the country. While accessible therapy
ONE of the questions I hear most is: “Miguel… what do I actually buy at the supermarket? And what should I order when eating out?”
Let’s keep it simple, the same way I did when I improved my health. These small daily choices are what helped me balance my blood sugar, lose weight naturally and reverse my type 2 diabetes. No strict diets. Just real Mediterranean food.
At the supermarket
I always say: your health starts in your basket. If you buy good food, you eat good food and your blood sugar and energy improve almost instantly. My basket is usually full of tomatoes, peppers, spinach, courgette, oranges, berries, sardines, eggs, chickpeas, olive oil, nuts and potatoes. Nothing fancy. Just simple food that keeps you full, steady and feeling human again. Eating out (yes, easily!)
Yes, I eat out. A lot. I live in Spain it’s
almost a national sport. And the good news? You can eat VERY well here without destroying your progress. When I look at a menu, I always ask myself:
“What’s the simplest, most natural thing on here?” I stay healthy by choosing simple dishes: espetos, dorada a la plancha, tortilla, pulpo, grilled chicken…Your blood sugar LOVES these foods. They’re fresh, natural and not drowned in sauces. And my favourite: verduras a la plancha - grilled vegetables. Light, healthy and every restaurant has them (even if they say they don’t). Just ask.
A little secret
You don’t need motivation. You just need the right groceries at home. And if you ever wonder what to cook, my cookbook
Mediterranean Home Cooking Made Easy is full of the simple recipes I’ve been eating for the last three years, this are the same meals that helped me regain my health.
Mediterranean Tip of the Week
Buy three vegetables, one protein and a bottle of olive oil.
Small choices add up fast.
ALMOST one third of the global population suffer from insomnia symptoms. If you’re one of them, I’m sure you’ve heard it all before: no screen time before bed, keep your room cold and dark, maintain a relaxing night-time routine, etc. And yes, while all of those tips can be efficient, there’s another trick you might not have
Eat better, sleep better
heard yet.
A recent study led by researchers at UChicago Medicine and Colombia University found that eating more fruits and vegetables during the day can make a big difference to your sleep quality. Co-senior au -
thor Estra Tasali, M.D. said “Dietary modifications could be a new, natural and cost-effective approach to achieve better sleep.”
The link between what we eat and sleep is well documented. It is scientifically proven that the
sleepier you are, the more likely you’ll be to crave unhealthier foods, high in fat and sugar. And it goes without saying that food and drink with a high caffeine or sugar impact your sleep. If you’re struggling to meet the recommended intake, there are plenty of easy dietary switchups you can make: Try swapping meat for
plant-based proteins with meals like veggie-burgers, curries or stews. Hide or blend vegetables to better incorporate them into your weekly rotation. Incorporating just one more fruit or vegetable to your meals can make a big difference.
Healing hydration Sparking style secrets
Soft supple skin can feel like a distant memory when cold winds and indoor heating create dry and chapped patches that sting with every smile. The delicate skin on the lips is especially vulnerable which is why so many people find themselves reaching for quick fixes that never quite deliver lasting relief. With a little care and the right routine it is possible to soothe discomfort and restore a healthy glow.
Chapped lips often begin with a loss of natural moisture. Gentle daily care is essential so start
by avoiding licking the lips since this only makes dryness worse. A nourishing balm with ingredients such as shea butter or beeswax creates a protective layer that seals in hydration. A soft cloth or a warm damp flannel can be used once or twice a week to lift away loose skin which allows treatments to work more effectively.
The face and hands can also suffer from rough pat-
ches. Rich creams applied after washing help lock in moisture while soothing ingredients such as aloe vera and oat extract calm irritation. Drinking plenty of water supports the skin from within and a small humidifier in your room can make the air kinder to your complexion.
Many people notice that certain days seem to turn hair into wild strands and clothes into crackling fabrics that cling in the most inconvenient ways. Static feels like an invisible force that waits for the right moment to surprise us with tiny electric shocks, often leaving us both amused and frustrated. It is a simple effect that comes from friction, yet it plays a curious role in everyday life.
Static appears when materials rub together and create an imbalance of electric charge. Dry air makes this more common, which is why winter wardrobes and heated rooms often lead to clingy outfits and flyaway hair. Skin can also feel the prickling sensation of static, especially when wearing synthetic fabrics that encourage the charge to settle on the surface.
Old wives tales have offered many creative solutions over the years. Some say that touching a wooden table can release the charge, while others recommend placing a metal key in a pocket to ward off shocks. A light mist of water on clothes or a touch of moisturiser on the skin often works far better since extra moisture reduces the charge and restores comfort.
Smell good, feel good
NEVER mind look good to feel good, in hot climates you’ve got to smell good to feel good. Or at least not feel so utterly uncomfortable in your skin.
As long as you maintain a consistent hygiene routine, smelling good is easy. It’s often a case of feeling like you smell, when you really don’t.
That can be trickier, especially when you’re sweating in the summer months.
There are plenty of ways you can calm those paranoid thoughts, ensuring you smell just as good as if you’d stepped out the shower all day.
Use scented products. Scented products,- from shampoos to moisturisers to deodorants - will help you feel fresh from head to toe.
Stick to one scent. If you’re using scented products, stick to one scent.
Mango sham-
poo paired with coconut lotion paired with strawberry perfume might be a sensory overload.
Find a flavour profile you like, and work around that.
Be strategic. Rather than spritz your perfume and hope for the best, be strategic. Apply to your pulse points for a long-lasting fragrance.
What’s more, adding Vaseline before perfume helps the scent stick. Portable products. Keeping a small can of deodorant or perfume in your bag is lifesaver when you’re out and about.
Mints and more mints. If your breath is minty fresh, there’s no need to stress.
Spain’s going solo
SPAIN has seen a striking social shift over the past three years, with 1.2 million new single adults added compared to just 105,000 new married individuals, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE). The change is most evident among Spaniards aged 25 to 45, who are delaying long-term commitments to prioritise career, education, and financial stability. Older age groups are also contributing to a gradual rise in single-person households, suggesting a structural rather than temporary trend. Women are at the forefront of this change.
Increased financial independence, combined with the disproportionate burden of unpaid domestic labour and emotional management, has led many women to reject unbalanced relationships. Across Europe, women initiate most divorces, often citing inequality at home and emotional neglect. Research shows that the preference for
autonomy reflects a desire for fair, supportive partnerships rather than hostility toward marriage.
The rise in single-hood carries economic and social implications. Single-person households have distinct spending and housing needs, influencing urban planning, social services, and policy design. Policymakers must consider shifts in pensions, healthcare, and
welfare as solo living becomes more common.
Spain’s trend mirrors developments in the UK but is occurring faster due to a compressed period of social change. Across both nations, delayed marriage and rising female standards are reshaping adult life, signalling that personal autonomy and equitable partnerships are becoming central to modern relationships.
Women are at the forefront of this change.
WHEN I moved to Spain, I expected sunshine and simplicity. I did not expect a lesson in practicality. Recently, I found myself in a tiny cobbler’s shop, boots in hand, confronting the reality of my own make-do and mend era.
Make-do and mend
In the UK, worn boots might languish at the bottom of a wardrobe. Here, minimalism makes repair essential. The shop was filled with shoes, boots, bags and hats, all waiting to be mended. It felt nostalgic, reminiscent of old-fashioned towns where local trades thrived.
My daughter watched the cobbler with fascination, asking questions about each repair. It was a reminder of the value of teaching children to appreciate, reuse and care for what they own.
Charity shops in Spain
CHARITY shops are a familiar part of life in the UK, where donated clothes, books, and household goods are sold to raise money for nonprofits. Every purchase supports a charitable cause while giving items a second life. In Spain, however, charity shops remain uncommon. Most are run by British or international expatriates who recreate the UK-style model in tourist areas or communities with large foreign populations. These shops introduce locals to a different philanthropic approach, but the concept has not yet become mainstream across Spain.
The limited number of charity shops, around 800 nationwide compared with over 10,000 in the UK and Ireland - reflects several barriers. Opening a shop in Spain requires navigating complex
bureaucracy, including registration, tax obligations, and commercial permits.
Smaller charities often lack the resources or guidance to manage these processes. Funding is another challenge: unlike in the UK, Spanish charities rely heavily on irregular donations, making it difficult to sustain a shop financially. Cultural attitudes also play a role, as many people still prefer buying new items over second-hand goods.
Despite these obstacles, charity shops offer clear benefits. They provide steady income for charitable projects, support sustainability by reducing waste, and create valuable volunteering opportunities. Expanding the model would offer Spanish communities affordable goods, stronger local engagement, and a more accessible culture of giving.
Spain’s culture contrasts sharply with the throwaway habits common in the UK. Items are fixed, reused, and passed on rather than discarded. Charity shops are rare, and fast fashion less pre-
valent, at least in small towns. There is pride in prolonging an object’s life, reflecting a quieter, more mindful approach to consumption.
This mindset fits nicely with the Spanish empha-
sis on experiences over things. A repaired pair of boots might last a season, while a shared coffee at a local café becomes a cherished memory.
Embracing small repairs at home, visiting local repair shops, and passing items to neighbours can all be part of this lifestyle.
Spain’s saintly secret revealed!
lously, the tomb. The current cathedral rose in 1078 under Alfonso VI. Its grand Romanesque body and Baroque ‘face’ (added 1738-50) are crowned by Maestro Mateo’s Pórtico de la Gloria: a dramatic Last Judgement in stone.
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, situated where the Sar and Sarela rivers shake hands in north-west Spain, has been charming the devout and the curious since 813. That’s when a tomb near Padrón was ‘divinely revealed’ to contain the remains of St James the Apostle. Martyred in Jerusalem around 44 CE, his bones were taken to Spain, where, according to legend, he’d formerly evangelised.
With Christian Spain feeling a bit squeezed by Moorish neighbours, the relics sparked national enthusiasm.
King Alfonso II built a modest church on the spot. Alfonso III (do keep up!) thought bigger. Pilgrims flooded in, and Santiago soon joined Jerusalem and Rome as Christianity’s top three pilgrimage centres.
Almanzor’s Moorish forces flattened the town in 997 except, miracu-
Nearby, the Royal Hospital (now a posh hotel) once welcomed weary pilgrims. The town boasts 16th-century colleges, a 10th-century monastery (still monastic!), cobbled rúas and museums ranging from Galician ethnography to edgy modern art.
Santiago is spiritual, historical and, as for the Camino de Santiago, utterly walkable. So, put on your walking shoes and get exploring. Just follow the scallop shells - and mind your knees!
Santiago de Compostela’s past is as rich as its treasures - a must-see!
Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.no ra-johnson.net) all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
Charity shops are common in the UK and offer clear benefits.
Photo credit: DogStarImages/Shutterstock
ADVERTISING FEATURE BATHROOM BLISS STARTS HERE
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If you want a bathroom that looks brand new without turning your home into a building site, this is the team you’ll want on your side.
The easy way to a stunning new bathroom
Ceiling to Floor has built its reputation on one core principle: make the customer’s life easier. And they do exactly that. Their high-quality wet-wall and PVC panels are designed to be tted directly over existing tiles, meaning no demolition, no dust, and no days of builders traipsing through your home.
It’s a refreshingly simple, clean and elegant solution - and the results speak for themselves.
Craftsmanship you can see in every line
While their products are exceptional, it’s the team’s workmanship that clients rave about time and time again. The installers are known for their professionalism, precision and genuine pride in their work. Every edge, every panel and every nish is tted with care, creating a modern, watertight and beautifully polished look.
Whether your taste is sleek and contemporary or warm and classic, Ceiling to Floor offers a wide range of colours, textures and designs so you can create a bathroom that truly feels like your own personal sanctuary.
Customers love the service - And it shows
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TOPTrending
Ballerina
JUMP back into the world of John Wick with this newest addition to the franchise, Ballerina, now streaming on Amazon Prime. Ana de Armas stars as Eve, a trained assassin who goes rogue, taking on an army of merciless killers to avenge her father.
While the action scenes were shot to brutal perfection, not incorporating the character’s ballet background into her ghting
brought to you by
style felt like a missed opportunity to establish this lm as a unique endeavour. Gory deaths, spectacular cinematography and a cameo from franchise legends make this a must-watch.
The Beast In Me
CLAIRE DANES’ newest psychological thriller, The Beast in Me, is an astonishing triumph. Danes plays Aggie, a writer traumatised by the death of her young son, whose killer lives just a couple streets over. When Nile Jarvis, a multimillionaire once suspected of murdering his wife, moves into the neighbourhood, his and Aggie’s antagonistic but compelling connection is instantaneous.
The eight-episode Net ix series is gripping, the tense chemistry of Aggie and Nile in beautifully written scenes immerses you completely. Fans of murder-mysteries and true crime will not be left disappointed.
Costa del Sol Back galloping
AFTER years of abandonment, Mijas’ once-glamorous Hipódromo de la Costa del Sol is poised for revival.
On Monday December 1, Mijas Council unanimously voted to dissolve the bankrupt company Recursos Turísticos de Mijas SA, which had run the 380,000-square-metre site since the 1990s. Following a share donation from Unicaja Banco, full ownership now returns to the council, ending a bankruptcy process that began in 2018.
Opened in 1999 as Spain’s premier winter racing venue, the hipódromo attracted up to 7,000 spectators with its 1.7-kilometre track. The 2008 financial crisis triggered mounting debts of more than €3 million, races stopped in 2013, and the site fell into ruin. Locals described the overgrown, vandalised complex as a ‘war zone’. Restoring it solely for horse racing would cost an estimated €3.5 million.
Axarquia
Churros and chocolate
HUNDREDS of residents and expatriates gathered in La Herradura’s Plaza de la Independencia on Saturday for the ninth annual Tradicional Merienda de Churros y Chocolate, the village’s popular winter charity event.
The free outdoor feast raised funds for January’s Three Kings Parade. Volunteers served almost 60 giant wheels of freshly fried churros - made from 100kg of dough - and 100 litres of thick hot chocolate. Local favourites Juan Salado and Carmen Medina from Churrería La Herradura cooked the churros on site, while members of women’s associations kept enormous pots of chocolate stirring.
Families packed long tables and benches, children darted between bouncy castles with chocolate-smeared faces, and adults browsed a lively craft and local-produce market. December’s unusually mild weather meant the traditional bonfire remained unlit, adding to the relaxed multinational atmosphere.
Mallorca
New ambulance fleet
MALLORCA has begun the phased rollout of a modernised ambulance fleet, replacing 169 vehicles to strengthen emergency medical services. Coordinated by the Balearic Health Service (IB-Salut) through the 061 system, the deployment includes basic life support, advanced life support, and specialised ambulances suitable for urban, rural, and coastal areas.
The renewal addresses ageing vehicles, improving reliability, response times, and patient safety. Upgraded medical and communication equipment enhances on-site assessment and care during transport, while redesigned interiors and reinforced suspension systems improve paramedic working conditions and patient comfort.
Staff have been trained to operate the new vehicles safely and efficiently, maintaining current operational protocols and staffing levels. The programme is part of a wider Balearic initiative extending similar upgrades to Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera.
Costa Blanca North Little heroes shine
THE youngest residents of El Poble Nou de Benitachell have once again proved that compassion starts early. Pupils at CEIP Santa María Magdalena have been organising an annual charity run for four years, raising funds for a variety of causes. This year, they chose to support Payasospital, a non-profit bringing joy and comfort to hospitalised children and teenagers. Their efforts raised an impressive €2,500, all of which will go directly to Payasospital’s programmes.
Payasospital works in public paediatric wards across the Valencian Community, sending professional clowns to perform personalised shows for each child.
In close coordination with medical staff, the clowns aim to ease anxiety and create moments of fun and distraction. Laughter therapy has been proven to support both emotional and physical recovery, making these visits invaluable for young patients.
Almeria Tourism ties
THE Almeria Provincial Council is promoting the Costa de Almeria as a prime destination at some of the most prominent tourism industry events in other Spanish locations, as well as in other countries. The Council is showcasing the province’s diverse offerings for tourism to key players in the industry, including the Andalucia Professional Days in Madrid and Portugal, the Aviareps Nordic Roadshow in Denmark, and ‘A Night with the Stars’ in the United Kingdom.
The promotional activities consist of a series of professional networking workshops with large groups of companies and institutions from various cities. The efforts are aimed at key players in the industry, including wholesale and retail travel agencies, aiming at facilitating, expanding, and updating knowledge about the province of Almeria and all it has to offer as a holiday destination.
The event has presented a unique and unmissable opportunity for representatives from the Almeria Provincial Council to network.
Costa Calida Calida Christmas
THE Costa Calida municipality of Cartagena has kicked off its Christmas festivities with the lighting of their special holiday lights, and is looking ahead to an exciting December schedule full of magic, merriment, and music. The festivities, which began on Friday, December 5, represented the start of another great year of Christmas festivities, from drone shows, to movie showings, concerts, family activities, and much more.
Cartagena began the event with a great spectacle of light and colour: a drone show over the town involving more than 220 drones. The show, apart from dazzling audiences, marked the beginning of a Christmas programme with more than 300 activities available for the whole of the municipality. In addition to the drone show, Cartagena has welcomed different shows taking place in town, being held at the Apolo Circus Theatre El Algar, the El Batel auditorium, and the Ramón Alonso Luzzy Cultural Centre. These shows will be apt for both the young and old.
Bennie the Corgi: Village celebrity and house-sitter favourite
IF there’s one resident who needs no introduction, it’s Bennie the Corgi. With a tail that wiggles like it’s trying to power the village and a grin as wide as his jaunty little gait, Bennie knows everyone - and everyone knows Bennie.
A natural socialite, Bennie treats life like a rolling meet-and-greet. New house-sitter arriving? Excellent - another human to charm. A trip to the local café? Even better - more admirers for his signature neckerchief (yes, he has a collection).
His owners are keen travellers, and while Bennie can’t join most trips, he’s never short of company. Thanks to HouseSitMatch, there’s always a willing sitter ready to spoil him with attention and keep his routines blissfully intact. Locals greet him warmly no matter who’s on the other end of the lead - Bennie accepts these honours with regal composure.
On HouseSitMatch he’s something of a mascot. Pet competitions? He’s in them all - Funny Pet Photo, Best Dressed, Most Photogenic. Sitters
adore him, his owners relax, and Bennie thrives.
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Who let the dogs out?
Spanish dogs have a better social life than me.
IN Spain, it is a legal requirement for dogs to be leashed in public. However, if you’ve been in Spain for five minutes, you’ll notice how common it is to see a dog plodding alongside their human, completely untethered. Why is this?
Spain has strict laws in regards to cleaning up after your pet. It is a legal requirement to clean up once your dog has done its business or risk a substantial fine. This means that there
is a significant amount of dog parks around every town and city. Some dogs are so well trained that they’ll only go to the bathroom in these parks.
Spain is a very walkable country, with cities often designed for pedestrians. This means that it is so much easier for your dog to tag along with you on your errands. You can take your pooch out for a pee and grab breakfast along the way. Many busi-
nesses are dog friendly. Bars and restaurants are happy to provide a bowl (sometimes an ashtray) of water for your dog. In my experience, the dog gets their drink before anyone else. This then creates more socialised dogs. They have a better social-life than me. They’re used to being out and about, regularly interacting with dogs, making them better behaved, more obedient, and trusted to be offleash.
Credit: Images by Dr. Alan Lipkin
Bennie has a collection of neckerchiefs.
ELECTRICIAN
GRILLS
Driverless cars
SPAIN has taken a major step into autonomous mobility by authorising driverless vehicle trials under a new national framework.
Highly automated vehicles can now circulate on public roads without a driver, moving testing beyond research centres and private tracks. While Tesla has gained media attention, the programme is open to any manufacturer meeting Spain’s technical, safety, and monitoring standards.
Trials follow rigorous protocols. Vehicles must use pre-approved routes, include multiple failsafe systems,
real-time monitoring, blackbox recording, and allow remote human intervention.
Companies must provide detailed risk assessments and collaborate closely with traffic authorities, ensuring safety and accountability.
The framework aims to create a competitive ecosystem, attracting European carmakers, tech firms, research institutions, and suppliers. Participants can test sensors, AI perception systems, and road-safety technologies, while Spain strengthens industry-academic collaboration and may attract international
investment. Spain’s varied topography, road networks, and seasonal climate offer ideal real-world testing conditions, from dense urban centres to rural provinces, helping autonomous systems adapt to traffic, weather, and environmental challenges.
Public reaction is mixed. Supporters cite improved safety, accessibility, and environmental benefits; critics raise concerns about job losses, ethical issues, and potential system failures. Authorities emphasise strict oversight and safety protocols remain central.
Buying an e-scooter?
ELECTRIC scooters are a popular Christmas gift for teenagers and young adults in Spain, but strict regulations are making them far less carefree.
Currently, they are classified as personal mobility vehicles (VMP) and banned from pavements and pedestrian areas.
Riders must use the road or designated cycle lanes, respect a 25 km/h speed limit, carry no passengers, and face the same penalties as car drivers. Police enforcement has intensified; in Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol alone, nearly 600 fines were issued in 2025, mostly for riding on pavements.
From January 1, 2026, two major nationwide rules become mandatory: every electric scooter user will need compulsory third-party liability insurance to cover damage or injury to others, and all scooters must be registered with the DGT traffic authority and display an identification plate or sticker.
Only models that meet official technical and safety standards, such as EN 17128, will be eligible for registration; uncertified scooters will be illegal on public roads. Many towns are adding extra requirements, such as compulsory helmets for all ages in 2026.
Anyone buying a scooter this Christmas should choose a certified model that can be registered next year, budget for liability insurance (currently €20-50 per year, though prices may increase), and expect helmet rules soon.
Recipients must be taught from day one to ride only on roads or cycle lanes, stay under 25 km/h, and never carry passengers.
€300m investment
SPAIN has launched a €700 million national initiative to accelerate electric-vehicle (EV) adoption and expand charging infrastructure, forming a key part of its longterm Plan Auto 2030. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed the package includes €400 million in direct purchase incentives and €300 million for fast-charging points along major transport corridors and ‘zonas sombra’, areas currently lacking EV coverage. The new Plan Auto+ simplifies EV subsidies, offering point-of-sale deductions directly at dealerships, replacing the slower MOVES reimbursement system. The scheme prioritises full battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) with the highest support, while plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) receive lower incentives. Eligibility is broad, covering residents, legally living expats, autónomos, SMEs, larger companies, leasing firms, and public administrations.
Vehicles must use pre-approved routes.
Photo credit: Flystock/Shutterstock
Local Police stopping scooter riders.
Kia EV3 - a distinctively striking package
By Mark Slack ROAD
TEST
IT’S hard to believe that just over 10 years ago Kia launched its first useable EV, the Kia Soul had a range of around 209km/130 miles and only sold a small number through a limited number of Kia dealers. A decade later and Kia is one of the foremost providers of EVs, and the number you see on the roads proves just how popular they have become with eco minded motorists.
The Korean car maker’s style has also become one of the most distinctive on the road and no matter which side of the marmite fence you stand they are a welcome sight amongst a motoring sea of lookalikes.
The EV3 is arguably one of their more conventional looking models, although there are still elements of Kia’s distinctive styling pen. It’s effectively a replacement of the aforementioned Soul and its cubic looks hide a particularly specious interior.
A three trim model line-up - Air,
GT-Line and GT-Line S - makes things simple and there is a standard range 58kwh battery and a longer range 81kwh version. Standard fare across all models includes auto lights and wipers, powered heated and folding door mirrors, heated front seats and steering wheel, air conditioning and keyless entry and start.
Priced from €37,518/£33,005 the standard range Air model will carry you for around 270 miles, although in real world driving probably 320-350km/200-220 miles. Although some complain about
the manufacturer stated range figures with EVs, it’s really no different to the MPG figures with ICE cars, it’s all ideal world testing.
An additional €3,410/£3,000 gets you the larger 81kwh Air model which adds a likely 100 additional miles to your range and standard equipment remains unchanged from the lead-in model. In addition to the usual rear boot, you get a smaller but still useful ‘frunk’ and occupants fare well inside the EV3 with very decent space and a nice airy feel to the interior.
On the road the EV3 is smooth, refined and handles the appallingly bad road surfaces that seem to populate most of the country extremely well. It will never be a performance machine but still offers the instant acceleration that is beloved by EV drivers. It is extremely useful for nipping past slower moving traffic, where in an ICE car you would think twice before attempting the same manoeuvre.
As you would expect of Kia the build quality is excellent and the EV3 is probably one of most
