Costa Blanca South 19 - 25 June 2025 Issue 2085

Alicante aims for the Apple

THE Valencian government is forging ahead with plans to establish direct ights between Alicante and the United States, a move which is likely to revolutionise the Costa Blanca’s tourism scene.

Led by Tourism Minister Marián Cano, a delegation from the Consell will head out west on a commercial mission to New York and then later to Atlanta with talks involving Delta Airlines, to negotiate the possibility of a direct Alicante-New

York route.

The strategy hopes to tap into the extremely lucrative US market, which ranked the Valencian Community 14th among visitors in 2024, with 143,464 tourists. American travellers are considered particularly valuable due to their higher average spending and growing interest in sustainable tourism.

“This connection will signi cantly boost connectivity and tourist ow,” Cano stated, giving weight to the region’s proactive approach

despite potential challenges from US tari policies under the new Trump administration.

The new ights are expected to attract wealthier American tourists with greater purchasing power, shifting the focus from traditional beach holidays to immersive experiences all about the region’s rich culture, history, and gastronomy.

The Costa Blanca, already world famous for its spectacularly preserved castles

and fascinating heritage, is well-positioned to cater to the American market who are also more likely to travel out of season, extending the tourism calendar and creating year-round employment opportunities for locals.

During the New York visit, Cano will meet with Peggy Murphy, vice president of USTOA, the leading US tour operators’ association, to promote the Valencian Community as a premium destination.

Costa Blanca South • No. 2085 • 19 - 25 June 2025 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

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Talks are taking place with Delta Airlines to negotiate a direct route. Credit - Shutterstock / Markus Mainka

Credit: Consum.es

Valencia extends hours

STARTING mid-June, select towns in the Valencian Community, classified as ‘High Tourist Influx Zones’, are permitted to open shops on Sundays and holidays to accommodate the summer tourist season.

The measure, running until September 15, allows shopping centres and numerous out-of-town stores, including dozens of Mercadona locations and 66 Consum supermarkets across Valencia, Alicante, and Castellon provinces, to operate with extended hours. Consum, a Valencian cooperative, has announced that selected stores will be open on Sundays and bank holidays from 9am to 2.30pm. The plan hopes to provide residents and visitors with more shopping convenience during the busy summer period and therefore cater to in-

creased tourist activity in both coastal and inland areas.

Among the Consum stores with special summer hours are those in Alicante (Avenida Joaquín Arias), Orihuela (Campoamor, La Zenia, Los Altos), Santa Pola (Gran Alacant), and Torrevieja (Avenida Cortes Valencianas, Avenida D. Ramírez).

A full list of participating stores is available through Consum’s official website.

The regional policy is part of the Valencian Community’s efforts to support local shops and improve the shopping experience for tourists and residents during the peak summer months. The extended hours, it is hoped, will add to convenience and economic activity in these popular destinations.

Coastal train hopes

THE Spanish government has confirmed ongoing feasibility studies for the ‘Coastal Train’ linking Valencia to Alicante and a rail connection between Orihuela, Torrevieja, and Orihuela Costa. However, Adif’s 2025 budget allocates only €5.6 million for non-high-speed rail lines in Alicante Province, raising concerns about slow progress.

In a June 12, 2025, parliamentary response to Senator Agustín Almodóbar, the government outlined Alicante’s railway investments: €69.2 million for high-speed rail, likely the Mediterranean Corridor, despite earlier promises of €150 million, and €5.6 million for other lines, including coastal routes. Two key projects are under discussion: a Valencia-Alicante coastal railway connecting Benidorm, Calpe, and Denia, and the Orihuela-Torrevieja-Orihuela Costa line

linking to Orihuela’s high-speed network. Torrevieja and Benidorm, major tourist hubs, have long sought better rail links, but progress remains sluggish.

The government noted advancements, including the Torrevieja connection’s feasibility study, the Valencia-Alicante line’s study (with the Cullera-Gandía section securing an Environmental Impact Declaration), and

environmental reviews for the Torrellano variant. Renfe plans to invest €11.963 million in Alicante in 2025. Yet, the modest budget and delayed timelines frustrate Torrevieja and Benidorm residents, as past promises, like those from former Valencian president Ximo Puig, have gone unfulfilled, leaving these communities awaiting vital rail connections for economic and tourism growth.

Consum supermarket.

Alicante cercanias commuter train.

Spain issues heat warning

Alerts now in English

FOR years, expats and tourists in Spain had to guess whether the heat was merely uncomfortable or dangerously high. That has now changed. Spain has launched an English-language version of its official heat alert website, just as the country braces for one of its hottest summers on record. The colour-coded alerts are localised and finally accessible to millions of English speakers who live in or visit Spain.

The National Health Ministry’s heat risk platform, previously available only in Spanish, now offers full English access - partly thanks to pressure from the British Embassy in Ma drid. With temperatures already triggering alerts in parts of southern Spain, this update will provide vital warnings to those most likely to miss them, such as tourists, students, and new arrivals.

Tracking the heat in a language everyone understands.

Inheritance Tax in Spain

Exemptions could apply

INHERITING property, a business, or life insurance in Spain often raises questions about Inheritance Tax (Impuesto de Sucesiones). While it can apply, a range of exemptions means many heirs - particularly close relatives - may pay little or no tax.

Inheritance tax rates vary significantly across Spain’s regions. In recent years, many autonomous communities have reduced or removed the tax for immediate family members. In Madrid, for example, children, spouses and parents benefit from a 99 per cent tax reduction. Inheriting €100,000 from a parent could result in just €1,000 in tax. Other regions, such as Asturias, may not offer the same relief for more distant relatives.

Spanish law broadly favours direct family, with the aim of preserving homes and businesses across generations. Heirs inheriting a primary residence from a close relative - or long-term cohabitant - may claim exemptions of up to €122,606.47. Family businesses may qualify for up to 95 per cent tax relief if operated for at least 10 years.

The system divides the country into 182 zones, each based on local climate norms. Alerts range from green (no risk) to red (high risk to health and life), and include advice on hydration, sun exposure, and recognising symptoms of heat-related illness.

Tourists from cooler countries often underestimate the heat, and many expats don’t follow local forecasts. With nearly six million foreign residents and tens of millions of annual visitors, this bilingual platform is a timely public health measureand could save lives.

https://www.sanidad.gob.es/en/excesoTemperatu ras2025/meteosalud.do

Some life insurance payouts are also partly exempt, depending on the policy and region.

If tax payment is an issue, it can often be settled using funds from the inherited estate. With careful planning and professional advice, inheritance tax in Spain can be manageable for many families.

For more detailed information on inheritance tax in Spain, you can visit the official website of the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria): https://sede. agenciatributaria.gob.es

Supreme Court halts fines New rental rules

Spain ends automatic tax penalties

SPAIN’S Supreme Court has dealt a significant blow to Hacienda’s practice of issuing automatic fines for deductible expenses. In a ruling in May, the court decided that tax authorities can no longer impose blanket penalties simply because a taxpayer cannot fully prove their deductible costs.

For years, Hacienda handed out sanctions broadly, using standardised wording and treating all cases alike. The Supreme Court, however, now requires that every penalty be individually justified. The tax office must prove the taxpayer acted with ‘culpability’ rather than penalising based on lack of documen -

Judge Francisco José Navarro Sanchís emphasised that “the mere lack of proof for an expense does not automatically mean the taxpayer is to blame.” The ruling recognises that tax law, particularly around deductible expenses, often involves interpretation. A genuine effort to comply, even if mistaken, should not lead to automatic sanctions.

Under Article 179 of Spanish tax law, sanctions apply only when there is culpability. Taxpayers who act with due diligence and reasonable understanding may be exempt. Hacienda must demonstrate why a mistake justifies a penalty.

This ruling ends the era of generic fines.

Hacienda must now provide detailed explanations and evidence for each penalty. However, taxpayers must still maintain proper records.

Court clamps down on tenants

SPAIN’S Supreme Court has issued a landmark ruling aimed at curbing abuse of tenant protections, closing a legal loophole that allowed non-paying tenants - often dubbed inquiokupas - to delay eviction for months or even years. The ruling now requires tenants to pay all outstanding rent before they can appeal an eviction order.

The change targets a growing problem: tenants who begin with a valid lease, then stop paying rent and resist eviction by claiming vulnerability. Since the pandemic, Spanish law has strongly protected vulnerable tenants, making it difficult for landlords to regain possession of their properties. Some tenants exploited the system, avoiding rent while dragging out legal proceedings through appeals.

Previously, many tenants could appeal without paying what they owed, leaving landlords stuck in a costly, drawn-out process. The court has now clarified that under Article 449.1, tenants must pay outstanding rent before an appeal is even considered, regardless of legal aid or hardship claims.

For landlords, this offers new hope of quicker resolutions and fewer rent-free holdouts. For tenants, it’s a clear signal: financial hardship must be addressed early and transparently. The ruling draws a firmer line between genuine need and abuse - bringing long-awaited balance to Spain’s rental system.

Elche cheaper by bus

STARTING this summer until December 31, Elche’s urban buses will be free for children under 15, aiming to promote sustainability by reducing car use and emissions while encouraging eco-friendly habits among youth.

The initiative, led by the local government and AUESA, the bus company, hopes to achieve a cleaner, more accessible future for the town.

Elche expects €700,000 from the Ministry of Transport and will add €300,000 from its budget to fund the programme. Youth aged 15-26 will enjoy a 50 per cent discount on bus fares, including beach routes, while those over 26 get a 40 per cent reduction, making public transport more affordable and supporting environmental and economic goals.

Children with personalised bus cards will automatically access free travel from July 1. Those without, including non-residents, can apply at the town hall, a new exception to prior resident-only rules.

AUESA stressed the environmental focus: reducing car use in the city and at beaches to cut fuel consump -

THE hospitality sector of Santa Pola will be permitted to open longer during the summer months from June 12 until September 14.

Pubs, karaokes, banquet halls and cafes, theatre, concert and singer may extend their hours until 4am. Cafete -

tion and pollution. “Less gasoline means less pollution and significant savings for families,” a spokesperson said.

The subsidies, expanded from pandemic-era measures, show the Ministry, council, and AUESA’s commitment to sustainable mobility. The free bus initiative for children is a big step toward a greener Elche.

Longer opening hours

rias and restaurants will close at 2.30am, except those located in the port area of Santa Pola that will extend until 3am.

In accordance with the provisions of article 9 of Order 32/2022 of December 7, of the Ministry of Justice, Interior and

Public Administration, Santa Pola Council has approved the extension of the schedules of public shows, recreational and sociocultural activities and public establishments for the summer season of 2025, between June 16 and September

14 and which affects the early mornings of Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

Premises that have a licence for theatre and concerts, pubs, karaokes and banquet halls, may extend their activity until 4am.

First tropical nights

TUESDAY, June 16 was marked by the start of unstable weather across the Comunitat Valenciana. Rain made a notable return - as it had already done on Sunday in some inland districts - and fell with considerable intensity, just as forecast by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet).

Showers and thunderstorms were recorded throughout the day in the interior, some of them locally strong.

Aemet issued several alerts from 2.00pm onwards due to the intensity of the rainfall, and the Emergency Coordination Centre (CCE) activated different levels of warning.

The highest risk was concentrated in the north of Alicante Province and the southern interior of Valencia, where an orange warning was declared

Alicante City and Castillo de Santa Barbara before the storm.

due to thunderstorms, some accompanied by large hail and very strong wind gusts. The likelihood was estimated at between 40 per cent and 70 per cent.

A yellow warning was also activated in the south of Alicante, the northern interior of Valencia and the entire interior of Castellón. In these areas, rain and storms delivered up to 20 litres per square metre in just one hour. Following recommendations in place since the DANA of 29 October, the authorities urged residents to monitor official channels for any updates or changes in alert levels or duration.

Elche bus travel just became cheaper.

Employment better than ever

ALICANTE region’s workforce has achieved its best unemployment figures since 2019, with as little as 25,848 people registered as unemployed in May, a 5.12 per cent drop from last year, according to a recent Labora report, the Valencian Employment Service. This shows a significant recovery from the Covid-19 crisis, when unemployment peaked at 37,763 in May 2020 and 35,437 in 2021, reflecting a 35.29 per cent decline since 2021.

Compared to 2019’s 27,388 unemployed, the current figure represents a 5.62 per cent decrease. From April to May 2025, unemployment fell by 472 across all sectors: agriculture (down six to 463), industry (down 18 to 1,188), construction (down 28 to 2,156), services (down 397 to 19,139), and those without prior employment (down 23 to

2,902). The services sector, dominant in Alicante, continues to drive the economy, though logistics and tech industries are growing, per a report by Impulsalicante’s Economic Observatory. Women remain more affected by unemployment, with 15,223 unemployed (down 238 from April) compared to 10,625 men (down 234). Women outnumber men in unem-

ployment across most age groups, except under 25, where men (763) slightly exceed women (660). In older groups, women lead: 5,365 vs 3,486 (ages 25-44) and 9,198 vs 6,376 (45+).

In May, 11,066 contracts were signed, 1,900 more than in April, with 4,984 permanent and 6,090 temporary, showing a positive hiring trend.

New support group

MARIA WILSON BEM and her dedicated team at Maria and the Pink Ladies have announced the formation of a new support group specifically for men affected by prostate cancer, marking another important step in their ongoing mission to promote cancer awareness and support within the Orihuela Costa community.

The group will meet on the first Wednesday of every month at the Sports Bar, Flamenca Beach Commercial Centre, offering a welcoming

and confidential space where men can talk, listen, and share experiences. Whether newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, recovering, or simply concerned about symptoms, everyone is welcome. The first meeting will take place on Wednesday, July 2 at 2pm.

Maria, who has long been at the forefront of local cancer support initiatives, said, “There’s a real need for open, honest conversation around men’s health, especially prostate cancer, which is still too often spoken about in hushed

tones. This group will give men a chance to connect, share, and support one another in a relaxed, no-pressure setting.” The sessions are designed to provide practical advice, emotional support, and, above all, solidarity, ensuring no man feels alone in facing prostate cancer.

For more information, call Nick on 711 006 327, or feel free to just drop in and join them. Together, you can break the silence and face prostate cancer with strength, support, and community.

Pink ladies and pink panthers being open about cancer.

Job Centre, Torrevieja.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torrevieja

Orihuela artist enjoying limelight

ORIHUELA-born photographer Ricardo Cases brings the vibrant world of competitive pigeon racing to life in Paloma al aire, now on display at Avilés’ Niemeyer Centre until October 13. The outdoor exhibition features 23 large-format images, some up to 620 x 413 cm, capturing pigeons in flight, at rest, and with their owners, through Cases’ distinctive lens.

Created in 2011 in Orihuela, Paloma al aire explores colombicultura, a sport where male pigeons vie to fly closest to a female. The project, now in its fourth book edition by Dalpine, transcends the sport, inviting reflection on human desires through vivid imagery. “It’s a fresh way to see the work,” Cases said. “I’m lucky a 2011 project still resonates in 2025.”

Based in Torrent, Valencia, Cases thanked Niemeyer director Carlos Cuadros for the opportunity after a flood destroyed his studio, sparing only hard drives and a few prints. “I thought it was impossible,” Cases said. “Carlos insisted on new large-scale prints.” The centre also bought 50 copies of the book.

Paloma al aire launched Cases’ international career, with past shows in Madrid’s Sala Canal Isabel II, Centro de Arte Alcobendas, and festivals in Geneva, Paris, Cologne, and Arles. “It was a turning point,” Cases said. “It’s my greatest joy.”

Open all summer, the exhibition transforms the Niemeyer Centre into a vibrant gallery, mixing sport, art, and human longing.

Guardia Civil rocky rescue

THE Guardia Civil, in collaboration with firefighters and Local Police of Orihuela, participated in the rescue of a Danish man who had fallen into a rocky area of difficult access in the Cabo Roig urbanisation, in Orihuela Costa.

On Tuesday June 10, around 1pm, a Guardia Civil patrol of the Pilar de la Horadada post was alerted to the fall of a person in a difficult-to-access area of the coast. Upon arriving at the

place, they were guided by a woman to the place where the injured person was: a cliff approximately eight metres high, between the breakwater and Playa Caleta. The terrain, very wet and steep, presented a high danger for any intervention.

Given the urgency of the situation and the risk that the rise of the tide would aggravate the condition of the injured man, the officers decided not to waste any time and, at great risk to themselves,

to climb down to the man. Once located, and together with the first firefighters, they managed to move him to a safer and more stable area.

Finally, at 2pm, thanks to the coordination of the officers of the Guardia Civil, firefighters and Local Police of Orihuela Costa, and after securing the injured person on a stretcher, they proceeded to carefully raise him to an accessible area, from where he was transferred to Torrevieja Hospital.

Ricardo Cases’ works now get international recognition.

Emergency services scramble down cliff to man’s rescue.

Informative meetings on residency

TORREVIEJA Council’s Department of Coexistence and Integration has begun meetings and discussions to provide updates on the new developments to the local British community, above all, on ‘arraigo’, a form of getting residency permission through various types of ‘rootedness’ to Spain.

One of the modifications that will be discussed is those who have been in Spain without their residency papers entirely above board; it could be that being able to prove that one had been living here for two years or more, even if it were without the correct residency permission, to stay stands a much greater chance of success. Other forms of ‘arraigo’ - having a job, business, or family, or even having integrated into the local society - can now be considered for obtaining

legal residency in Spain.

The first session, held in the Multipurpo se Centre on Avenida de las Habaneras, was for students enrolled in the Atis Associa tion’s Spanish for Settlement programme. The new immigration law, which came into effect on May 20, 2025, considers five ca tegories of rootedness: family rootedness, societal rootedness, socio-labour ‘arraigo’, second-chance rootedness, and socio-training rootedness.

Óscar Urtasun reminded participants to email pangea@torrevieja.eu to receive information on upcoming meeting dates, times, and locations. For anyone who has been more than two years in the country and who does not have their legal residency sorted out yet, these talks will be an eye-opener.

Start of talks on how to get legal residency.

Third annual tagging tour

IN Santa Pola, scientists and recreational shermen are collaborating for the third Scienti c Angler Tagging Tour to electronically tag large bluen tuna, and advance marine research.

Anchored at the Santa Pola Yacht Club, the initiative promotes public participation in science and sustainableshing while contributing to global marine conservation.

Fogueres de Sant Joan 2025

Over 70 expert recreational shermen, skilled in catch-and-release, will join Ifremer researchers to tag blue n tuna of over 180 cm. The sh, feeding o Alicante’s coast post-spawning in the Balearic Islands, are key to studying migration and behaviour. Electronic tagging tracks migratory routes, depths, water temperatures, and feeding areas, revealing the impact of warming seas on tuna behaviour and distribution, vital for sustainable management.

New sonic tagging projects by IMEDEA-CSIC and RESMED+ (University of Barcelona) improve data collection,

while SEO/BirdLife’s MARAVES project monitors seabirds and trains shermen to prevent accidental captures.

The 2025 Tagging Tour, after missions in Barcelona and Ceuta, stops in Santa Pola before concluding in Ametlla de Mar, in line with tuna’s annual cycle. Outreach projects include PlasticFishing, encouraging simultaneous plastic waste collection to combat marine pollution.

Since 2023, SEATECH SL’s Tagging Tour has completed nine missions, tagging over 100 tuna. Data shared with ICCAT supports global research andsheries management, fostering collaboration for marine ecosystem protection.

THE Fogueres de Sant Joan 2025, Alicante’s favourite annual festival, declared of International Tourist Interest and an Intangible Cultural Heritage, lights up from June 19 to 24. Preparations kicked off earlier with a street market opening on June 17 and the first mascletà (firecrackers) on June 18. Before the fiery cremà on June 24, visitors can admire the intricate ninots and fogueres, though noise-averse tra-

vellers may want to skip the loud mascletàs.

At the Sala de Exposiciones Lonja del Pescado, Alicante’s port hosts the 2025 Ninot Exhibition, showcasing 91 children’s ninots and 20 from special fogueres, all vying for the indulto (pardon) to escape the flames.

Renowned for its artistic quality, creativity, and satire, the exhibition includes an educational panel on its origins in the Tabarca Room. Admission is free.

The festival peaks with the plantà of children’s fogueres and street ninots on June 19, followed by adult fogueres and decorated streets on June 20. On June 24, the cremà sees over 90 fogueres across Alicante’s neighbourhoods and town hall square set ablaze. The celebration continues from June 25 to 29 with nightly fireworks at Cocó Beach in the Volvo Zone for the traditional fireworks show. For a detailed program, visit hogueras.es.

Fishermen on a scientific mission.

Credit: Club Náutico Santa Pola, FB

Last chance to see ninots before the bonfires.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Alicante

Community tradition

ON Sunday, June 22, the streets of San Miguel de Salinas will burst into colour with the traditional creation of intricate salt carpets, a much-loved cultural event.

This year, the local council has purchased nearly 7,000 kilos of salt from nearby salt flats, showing support for local products. “This helps us build a beautiful town when we need an economic boost,” the mayor said.

The event has seen a surge in participation in recent years, with more residents signing up to craft these ephemeral works of art, which demand meticulous planning and teamwork and as little wind as possible. The council stressed the importance of preserving the traditions of the community and getting everyone involved through such cultural celebrations.

Artisans and locals begin their work at 8am on Sunday, and will work all day long to transform the streets into dazzling tapestries by dusk. The carpets, measuring two to four metres wide, will not only feature salt but also a variety of other materials such as sawdust, marble dust, and sand, stretching across nearly 300 metres of the town’s streets.

The event will start with a mass at the Parroquia San Miguel Arcángel at 8pm, followed by a procession through the adorned streets, accompanied by local authorities and the community.

These brightly coloured carpets reveal a community’s devotion, artistry, and continuing a cultural tradition that is as much about religion as it is about identity.

Alma Occident Festival

ALICANTE is set for an unforgettable summer as the Alma Occident Festival makes its debut at Multiespacio Rabasa from July 13 to August 6.

The festival, already a hit in Barcelona and Madrid, will feature nine unique concerts, giving Alicante this year its reputation as a ‘city of festivals’.

Confirmed headliners include international stars Texas, Travis, Seal, UB40, Jethro Tull, and Kool & The Gang, as well as Spanish bands Guitarricadelafuente, Paloma San Basilio, and Trueno.

One highlight of the festival is its commitment to emerging talent through the Village stage, presenting local acts like Nueve Desconocidos, Otto, Penélope, Bluenáticos, La 126, Becarios, and Viscopaf.

Each main performance will be joined by a lo -

cal opener, showing off Alicante’s exciting music scene. “This is a valuable opportunity for young Alicante musicians to share the stage with global names,” said Culture and Youth councillor Nayma Beldjilali.

Organised by Producciones Baltimore, Alma Occident aims to present global and local sounds in a setting designed for maximum emotional connection.

“Alicante embodies the festival’s spirit - cultural passion and human warmth,” said a spokesperson from the Alicante Tourism Board.

The local government has backed the event, with music tourism generating €40 million and attracting 400,000 visitors last year. New funding and fast-tracked permits show Alicante’s festival-friendly push.

Beautifully intricate and delicate creations.

Credit Ayuntamiento de San Miguel de Salinas.

Fans at Alma Music Festival in 2024.

Saturday June 28 is the day to join as a collective

WITH the joy of brilliant sunshine, blue skies and beautiful surroundings here in Spain and our busy lives full of work, family and social commitments, it is easy for us to forget what all those ‘uniformed services’ (Armed Forces) and their families have endured and are currently enduring in order for us to experience that happy and peaceful lifestyle.

Celebrate and honour Generous hope

force to celebrate and honour all the services and their families at a Parade of various Associations and Organisations Standards, led by the Torre -

vieja Pipes & Drums at Capilla De Las Mil Palmeras with a service by Pastor Phil Molloy.

Although we refer to it as Armed Forces Day, it

encompasses all military services along with all civilian services, including the Guardia Civil and Policia etc.

The Shipmates (S/M’s) of the Royal Naval Association Torrevieja Branch (RNATB) are extremely proud and privileged to organise and lead this celebration.

THE Transfusion Centre of the Comunitat Valenciana (CTCV) has collected 81,845 blood units this year, surpassing last year’s donations for the same period. Alicante contributed 29,305 units, Castellon 8,356, and Valencia 44,184. Additionally, 4,453 aphorises units (platelets and plasma) were donated by around 2,800 donors, a 45 per cent increase from last year. Alicante donated 1,898 units, Castellon 545, and Valencia 2,010, showcasing heightened community generosity.

Health Minister Marciano Gómez expressed gratitude to the 7,405 new donors and regular contributors, urging them to inspire others. He spoke at IES Lluís Vives in Valencia during World Blood Donor Day, themed ‘Donate blood, give hope: together, we save lives’. The day honours voluntary donors and emphasises the ongoing need for safe, quality blood supplies. Soon, the CTCV will launch the ‘GVA Donors’ web portal and mobile app to enhance the donor experience through digitisation. These tools will allow users to register, access donation history, locate extraction points, view personal statistics, and complete pre-donation health surveys. A FAQ section will address common queries about the donation process and eligibility, streamlining participation and fostering continued engagement.

Blood donation bus, Alicante.

Credit: Alicante EMV

Extremely grateful

FUND RAISERS David and Lorraine Whitney

were extremely pleased to receive a monetary donation for a charity that they support, namely Donacions Torrevieja Alredores. This charity help

Solar pay off

Credit:

Emilio

Tunnel to reopen

THE AP-7 tunnel, closed since a tragic tra c accident on May 9 that claimed one life, is set to reopen to tra c in the Cartagena direction during the last weekend of June, authorities have conrmed. The closure has forced vehicles to detour through the N-332 and local streets in Pilar de la Horadada, causing signi cant tra c jams and delays for those travelling toward San Pedro del Pinatar.

Following the accident, which caused a re that damaged the tunnel’s infrastructure, local o cials met with Jesús Redondo, the Ministry of Transport ocial overseeing regional roads, to discuss solutions. Proposals such as ope-

ning one lane for two-way tra c were deemed unsafe by the Ministry, and alternative routes are limited to unpaved secondary roads, which complicate e orts to ease congestion.

The reopening, scheduled to coincide with the start of the summer peak season, comes as a relief to residents and o cials expecting an in ux of tourists and seasonal residents in Pilar de la Horadada. The Ministry of Transport is working diligently to complete repairs to the damaged infrastructure, with progress reported to be on track. Local authorities remain in close contact with the Ministry and will provide updates as the reopening date approaches.

Alicante still expanding

ALICANTE’s Cerámica Santo Tomás sector will feature approximately 500 new homes, a Lidl supermarket, green spaces, a school, and a sociocultural centre, per a recent council statement.

The announcement follows the approval of the urbanisation project for one of the sector’s ve execution units, designated for the supermarket. This unit joins two others under development, with the remaining two awaiting approval soon, speci cally to deal

with the city’s shortage of housing issue.

Urban Planning councillor Rocío Gómez noted, “Completing the Cerámica Santo Tomás sector in Ciudad Jardín will unify the urban landscape, eliminate vacant lots, and deliver essential services, housing, and green areas.” She emphasised that the project, including protected housing, lines up with Alicante’s urban planning goals.

Part of Alicante’s General Urban Development Plan,

the sector is divided into ve units. Two are partially developed, while units 2, 4, and 5 are in progress. Unit 2, recently approved, lies between Avenida de Novelda, Catedrático Eliseo Gómez Serrano, and Pintor Rodes streets, hosting a commercial area, a sociocultural facility, and a landscaped zone. Units 4 and 5, near Vía Parque, include plans for roads, a school, a green space, and more housing, currently in the planning phase, according to the council.

Ap-7 tunnel and the queues of diverted traffic.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Pilar de la HoradadaFB

Plans for whole new neighbourhoods.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Alicante.

Heartbreak at the gate Depp and Cruz

A YOUNG woman has accused RyanAir of preventing her from seeing her dying grandfather due to a carry-on luggage dispute. Carmen Díaz, a TikTok creator (@carmendiazguadamuro), shared her story on June 10, alleging that her bag was deemed two centimetres too large to fit horizontally into the airline’s measuring box, leading to her being charged a €60 fee. Despite her bag fitting vertically, she was told she had to pay or be denied boarding.

Commenters are spamming RyanAir’s official TikTok account with ‘JUSTICE FOR CARMEN DÍAZ.’

Díaz, who had paid €285 for a one-way ticket from Brussels to Asturias, said she was trying to get there urgently before her grandfather passed away. After agreeing to pay the fee, she was later told the gate had

closed and that she had refused to pay, a claim she says was false and recorded incorrectly by staff. She was left unable to board, missing both the flight and the chance to say goodbye. Díaz criticised RyanAir for lacking customer support and highlighted EU proposals that could grant airlines more freedom over luggage fees, potentially causing more confusion and similar incidents. The video has gone viral with over eight million views.

JOHNNY DEPP is back in the spotlight, blending filming and tourism across Spain. The American actor, 62, has been seen on location in Barcelona, Teruel, the Canary Islands, and now Madrid, where he visited the Reina Sofía Museum with long-time friend and co-star Penélope Cruz.

The pair are currently shooting Day Drinker, a dark action thriller directed by Marc Webb, described as Depp’s most ambitious film since his defamation trial with Amber Heard.

Following the mixed reception of Modi, his second directorial work, Depp is back in front of the camera, sharing scenes with Cruz, Madelyn Cli-

ne, Juan Diego Botto and others. Set for release in 2026, Day Drinker involves a mysterious encounter between a waitress and a criminal aboard a boat.

While filming scenes in Vilanova i la Geltrú and Tenerife, Depp also found time to shoot a Dior fragrance advert in Teruel and pose beside Picasso’s Guernica. The museum shared photos of the visit, which sparked online buzz. Depp was also joined by Argentine businessman Jorge ‘Corcho’ Rodríguez, who praised the visit as a powerful artistic moment.

Their connection reportedly grew during international film festivals throughout 2024.

Depp and Cruz pose in front of Guernica at the Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid.

Credit: Museo

Reina Sofia

Photo Credit: Tom via Pixabay

ONCE on the brink of extinction, the Iberian lynx has made one of the most successful recoveries of any wild cat. According to 2024 census data released by Spanish and Portuguese authorities and conservation partners, the population has risen to 2,401 - up 19 per cent from the previous year.

In 2002, numbers had dropped to fewer than 100, with

Iberian lynx population rebounds

some estimates as low as 52. The decline was driven by habitat loss, hunting, road deaths, and a collapse in the European rabbit population - its main prey.

Through captive breeding, habitat restoration, rabbit population recovery, and EU-backed

reintroductions under the LIFE LynxConnect programme, lynx numbers have multiplied nearly 24-fold.

Spain now hosts 2,047 lynx and Portugal 354, including 1,557 adults and 470 breeding females - 64 more than in 2023. Some

844 cubs were born in 2024. The species now breeds in 17 areas, including new territories in Murcia and Castilla y Leon.

The IUCN reclassi ed the lynx as ‘Vulnerable’ in 2024, re ecting its recovery. However, threats remain. Road deaths accounted

for 144 fatalities in 2023. Habitat fragmentation, prey instability, and local resistance continue to pose challenges.

Conservationists are urging sustained funding beyond 2026 to maintain progress and secure the species’ long-term future.

Planes vs planet

BARCELONA has reignited the clash between economic ambition and climate pledges. On June 10, Catalan president Salvador Illa unveiled a controversial plan to expand El Prat airport. Environmentalists call it a betrayal; business leaders hail it as progress. The European Commission is now reviewing the proposal.

The expansion plan includes runway extensions and increased flight capacity, aimed at boosting Barcelona’s global profile, especially for events like the Mobile World Congress. But the project revives concerns over La Ricarda, a protected wetland already at the centre of a prior blocked expansion.

Environmental groups accuse Illa of climate denial, warning the plan undermines Spain’s commitments amid worsening droughts and heatwaves. Protests are being organised across Catalonia, with activists saying Barcelona risks becoming a symbol of climate hypocrisy.

The European Commission may ultimately block the plan if it violates environmental laws, especially

Environmental protests are mounting as plans for Barcelona’s airport expansion move forward.

since the La Ricarda case remains unresolved. Brussels has the authority to intervene under EU protections for natural heritage.

Supporters argue a bigger airport strengthens Barcelona’s global standing. Critics warn it risks setting back climate goals.

Spain stands at a crossroads - torn between building for growth and delivering on environmental promises.

Whichever way the plan goes, the message will resonate far beyond the runway.

Credit: Shane Aldendorff from Pexels via Canva.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MY LAWYER IN SPAIN

Appointment of two new partners

MY LAWYER IN SPAIN is delighted to announce that Patricia Ruiz and Laura Albors have been appointed as Partners in My Lawyer in Spain SLP.

Patricia joined the firm in 2016 having completed her law degree in 2009 and subsequently a master’s degree in mediation and alternative dispute resolution. Since joining the firm Patricia has specialised in advising international clients on buying, selling and inheriting property across Spain. As well as developing and building a department dedicated to taxes for non Spanish residents.

Laura started working at My Lawyer in Spain from home in August 2021 during the refurbishment of the Ciudad Quesada office which opened in March 2022. Since then Laura has recruited and managed a team dedicated to international clients buying, selling and inheriting property across the Costa Blanca and Spain.

Patricia will take on additional management responsibilities for the offices located on the Costa del Sol in

Laura will continue to manage the Ciudad Quesada and Javea offices as well as the newly opened office in Mojacar.

Alex Radford founding partner of My Lawyer in Spain said he was de-

lighted with the appointments of both Patricia and Laura to the partnership table. Both have demonstrated hard work, commitment to the law firm, excellent management skills and dedicated client care to our international clients. With these appointments and the fantastic team of potential

Partners to come from our teams, My Lawyer in Spain shall continue to consolidate its position as a unique law firm with offices across Spain specialising in acting for international clients.

Melanie, Partner and Head of the Residency team for My Lawyer in Spain is positively pleased with the appointments and looks forward to sustained growth and consolidation of the residency team providing continued support to all our offices and dealing with Spanish Consulates worldwide.

My Lawyer in Spain has offices located in Marbella, Benalmadena, Torre del Mar, Mojacar, Ciudad Quesada and Javea along with associated offices in Murcia, Valencia, Madrid, Bilbao, Galicia and Tenerife.

My Lawyer in Spain specialises in acting for international clients buying, selling and inheriting property across Spain and its islands along with foreign tax services for Spanish residents and non residents as well as company incorporations.

Marbella, Benalmadena and Torre del Mar.

THE Lloret de Mar City Hall in Costa Brava has fined 23 illegal tourist flats €20,000 each. This marks the first wide-scale issuing of fines since Lloret de Mar’s new plan, Lloret Acts, was put into motion. The plan, which is carried out by municipal tourist flat inspectors and Local Police, aims to regulate tourist flat rentals and diminish unfair play when it comes to renting to tourists, as Lloret de Mar is

Illegal flat activity

one of Spain’s most popular holiday destinations. These illegal apartments were detected using a special digital tool that helps the Catalan government officials keep track of which properties are registered as a tourist flat and which aren’t. Suspected unregistered tourist flats are visited in-person by officials.

Oldest fingerprint found

ARCHAEOLOGISTS are celebrating a rare discovery: a perfectly preserved Neanderthal fingerprint, believed to be around 43,000 years old. Found in central Spain at the Abrigo de San Lázaro site near Segovia - where some of the last European Neanderthals once lived - it may be the oldest and best-preserved Neanderthal fingerprint uncovered to date.

Although first discovered in 2022, the findings were only detailed in a report released this May. The dark orange-red fingerprint appears in the centre of a 20-centimetre rock, which archaeologists say resembles a human face - a phenomenon known as pareidolia. It is thought the Neanderthal may have noticed this resemblance and deliberately placed the mark where the nose would be. Non-invasive testing confirmed the

A 43,000-year-old Neanderthal fingerprint has been found in Spain.

fingerprint was made using ochre, a natural pigment containing ferric oxide.

The rock, larger than others in the same sediment layer, stood out due to the striking red mark. Its layer has been dated to between 43,000 and 42,000 years ago, near the end of Neanderthal history.

Forensic specialists from Spain’s National

Police used multispectral imaging to reveal fingerprint ridges, concluding it was likely left by an adult male Neanderthal.

While other Neanderthal prints have been found, this may be the first intentionally placed, potentially symbolic one - adding to growing evidence that Neanderthals engaged in symbolic thought.

The fines issued depend on several criteria, including the profits obtained by the infractor, whether the infractor was deliberately deceitful when operating the property, and the social impact of the property itself.

In light of the fines, the mayor of Lloret de Mar, Adrià Lamelas, reiterated the City Hall’s goal of ‘a legal, orderly, and respectful tourism model’.

This comes amid a stern crackdown from many communities of Spain that have seen an exponential increase of tourism in the past years, and with it, an increase in illegal tourism-related activity.

Photo Credit: D. Álvarez-Alonzo ET AL/Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences 2025

NEWS Travel

Brihuega - Lavender fields and historic sights

PICTURE yourself walking through fields brushed with shades of purple, the scent of lavender hanging gently in the air. That’s Brihuega - a small town in Castilla-La Mancha that comes alive every summer when the lavender blooms. From late June to early July, the surrounding hills and countryside turn into a sea of colour, drawing visitors from all over the country and beyond. The fields are a favourite for photographers, day-trippers, and anyone looking to slow down and enjoy some fresh air and open space.

If you’re travelling with a campervan, there are practical parking areas nearby where you can stay overnight. This makes it easy to explore the lavender fields early in the morning when the light is best.

Exploring Brihuega

The town itself has narrow cobbled streets and historic architecture that dates back several centuries. The Plaza del Coso, the main square, is a central gathering spot featuring cafés and small artisan shops selling lavender-based products. You will also find landmarks like the 18th century town hall, the former Jail of Carlos III, now a tourist office and library, and the Arab Caves.

Another main attraction is the Castle of the Infantes, a medieval

here, you can get great views of the surrounding fields.

Lavender fields

Outside Brihuega, the lavender fields cover large areas and provide a unique sight during the blooming season. Guided tours are available and offer information on how the lavender is grown and harvested, a tradition maintained by local farmers.

The best time to visit the fields is early morning or late afternoon when

also a stunning setting to enjoy a picnic or relax in the fields as the sun sets.

Food and drink

Local cuisine in Brihuega is traditional and filling. Popular dishes include stewed lamb and migas, which are fried breadcrumbs cooked with garlic and chorizo. Lavender is also used in several local products, including honey, desserts, and craft beers, giving a subtle and unique flo-

SUMMARY

Brihuega is a place that’s easy to enjoy without much planning or rush. Between the rolling lavender fields and the town’s historic charm, there’s enough to fill a day or two at a comfortable pace. It’s well-suited for a short stop on a road trip or a quiet weekend away, especially for those who appreciate beautiful landscapes, local food, and a bit of history.

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Twilight Disco Walk

A

DAZZLING night out is coming your way as the Twilight Disco Walks bring music, dance, and social fun to Cabo Roig’s promenade, Monday, June 23.

A unique evening of dancing adventure, will start at 9pm at Trinity Bar in Cabo Roig, which will combine feel-good tunes, glowing vibes, and a touch of glamour, making it the perfect place for a memorable night of dance and laughs.

Unlike a typical stroll, the Twilight Disco Walk is a mobile party where participants groove to a special set list of disco classics and pop anthems through wireless LED headphones, ensuring everyone enjoys the same grooving soundtrack without noise pollution.

Led by an energetic live host, the guided walk along Cabo Roig’s prom to the bewilderment of the rest of the town, is a recipe for dance moves, laughter, and friendly banter. Each walker receives a free glow stick to light up the evening,

with a complimentary shot awaiting at Trinity Bar post-walk (with a drink purchase).

Open to adults 18+, the event welcomes singles, couples, and groups. A casual dress code with a hint of sparkle is encouraged, and of course with comfortable shoes for walking and dancing.

Tickets are €7.25 plus fees, but spots fill fast. For a night of connection, music and Costa Blanca magic, book your Twilight Disco Walk today via Trinity Bar’s event page. Grab your glow stick, and let’s dance under the stars!

San Juan at La Zenia

THE second annual San Juan Festival will illuminate La Zenia until June 30, with two weeks of energetic evening events.

Organised by the Comisión de Fiestas Orihuela Costa, the festival at Zenia Boulevard’s car park (opposite Leroy Merlin) celebrates the historic San Juan with music, dance, gastronomy, and fireworks, offering fun for all ages.

Each evening from 9pm, enjoy live music, talent competitions, a fair, crafts

SLIP ON your dancing shoes and groove to the timeless rhythms of soul, funk, and disco at La Mata. The inaugural Soul in the Sun La Mata event is set to loosen up everyone’s dance moves at La Castiza Beach Bar on Sunday, June 29, from 7pm to 10.30pm, with a funky evening of the best sounds, dancing, and seaside fun in La Mata.

For €5 per person, the retro-inspired dance party will transport attendees through the golden eras of sweet soul music with classic hits from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s, with genres like soul, Motown, northern soul, disco, and funk.

DJ Brad from Big Radio Spain is leading the charge and will be spinning feel-good beats to keep the dance floor buzzing.

market, bonfire, and specialty food and drink bars.

The festival opens on June 12 with a lighting display and DJ Djayme, closing on June 30 with a grand fireworks finale.

Highlights will include dance performances by Energizer Dance and Casa Chile (June 19), the Festival of the Sun with acrobatic dance (June 20), a parade and San Juan Queens coronation (June 21), and a children’s spectacular with Disney characters (June 22). The main

event, the burning of the Hogueras on June 23, features a bonfire awards ceremony, fireworks, and DJ Gonza.

Other events include a Festival of Water and Joy (June 24), 80s/90s ‘Remember Day’ (June 25), Funku concert (June 26), Day of Culture (June 27), Latin Festival (June 28), and a foam party (June 29).

For details, visit the Comisión de Fiestas’ Facebook or La Zenia’s Instagram. Join the celebration of community and tradition.

in the sun

Soul in sun

The evening will also feature a singer Melisa Fanning, adding an extra layer of excitement to the night’s party mood.

La Castiza Beach Bar is known for its amazing beachfront location and its lively atmosphere, will be the perfect setting for this new (hopefully) weekly dance event. Attendees can look forward to

discounted cocktails, exclusive t-shirts, exciting prizes, and the chance to meet new people while dancing under the stars. Tickets go on sale at 6pm on the day of the event, to get a spot for what promises to be a memorable kickoff to a weekly tradition in La Mata.

Twilight disco walking in Cabo Roig.

Credit: Shhh Silent Disco

San Juan celebrations at La Zenia.

Unique cuisine - Pico de Águila Fakers Quo

LA FINCA PICO DEL ÁGUI-

LA by Pipi’s Dream at the base of the Sierra de Orihuela in La Aparecida delivers a dining experience that merges Mediterranean tradition with a unique creative flair.

Earning a 4.4 rating on Restaurant Guru from 301 reviews, this Orihuela restaurant has become a Vega Baja favourite for its exceptional cuisine and lively atmosphere and unbeatable service.

GET ready to rock, Ciudad Quesada! The rocking good Status Quo tribute band Fakers Quo is set to take the stage at the town’s best-loved local club on Friday, June 20, promising an unforgettable evening of classic rock and deepcut gems that will thrill fans of all ages.

side rarer album tracks that the original band seldom ever performed live.

“We’re all true Quo fans with a love and passion for the band and their music,” the band shared on their social media page. “We play the classics, but we also delve a little deeper, playing some of the tracks we as fans would love to hear live. So give us a follow, and we’ll see you on the road somewhere in 2025!”

The menu presents a range of exceptional dishes, from timeless classics to inventive creations. Favourites include the crispy red shrimp croquettes, rich with garlicky Mediterranean flavour, and confit artichokes paired with béchamel, foie, and curry mayo, perfectly balancing flavours and textures.

the restaurant’s wonderful coffee.

The classic Russian salad has been reimagined with olive foam and pickled mussels showing the kitchen’s innovative touch. For mains, the monthly ‘arrocero’ menu (€25 per person, minimum two) features rice dishes like lobster paella, prepared with care and available gluten-free on request. Desserts, such as home-made tarte tatin or fruit cake, complement

Led by chef José Antonio López Cabrera, aka ‘Pipi’, the restaurant provides warm, personalised service and a bit of a party feel, ideal for casual meals or events like weddings and communions. The outdoor terrace, with amazing, sweeping Vega Baja views, makes the experience all the more special.

Open Thursday to Sunday for lunch and Friday-Saturday for dinner, reservations are advised (677 022 227 or fincapi codelaguila.com). Calle el Arsenal, 6, La Aparecida.

Fakers Quo are a passionate group of lifelong Status Quo devotees who bring a unique twist to their performances. Describing themselves as ‘just a bunch of Quo fans playing Quo’, the band is moved by an infectious love for the iconic British rock band’s music. Their setlist is carefully put together with Status Quo’s timeless classics like ‘Rockin’ All Over the World’ and ‘Caroline’, along -

Doors open at 7pm, with the band hitting the stage at 9pm. Entry is free. Reservations are available from the club and by calling 711 076 139. The Club Quesada is on Calle Toledo 21, Ciudad Quesada.

Credit: La Finca Pico del Águila

Credit: Fakers Quo YouTube

Amazing views, amazing salads.

Fakers Quo to play Club Quesada.

Zenia Beach Volleyball

FOR the first time, La Zenia’s Cala Bosque beach will host the Revolution 1920 beach volleyball tournament, the largest sporting event in Orihuela Costa, from June 26 to 29.

San Juan in Guardamar

GUARDAMAR DEL

SEGURA will host one of Spain’s biggest midsummer celebrations on June 23 and 24 at Playa Centro, with ancient fire rituals and modern festivities.

Organised by the local council and Els Milotxes, the San Juan event features a massive communal bonfire, fireworks, a mobile disco, and live music, despite private bonfires being banned elsewhere along the coast.

The festivities kick off on June 23 with ‘La Nit Màgica’ (Magic Night). At 11.30pm, Playa Centro opens with a controlled zone set up by the organisers. From 11.30pm to midnight, a spectacular show combines DJ sets, dance, fire displays, and water effects. At midnight, fireworks will light up the Mediterranean, followed by a mobile disco and celebrations lasting into the early hours.

On June 24, the traditional ‘cremà’ (bonfire) and ‘banyà’ (soaking by firefighters) begin around 1am, guaranteeing the revelry doesn’t stop. To ensure safety, beach access is restricted from 9pm to 6am, with alcohol and unauthorised bonfires prohibited outside the designated area, enforced by civil protection and Local Police. Arrive by 11pm to secure a spot. Els Milotxes provides firewood, but bring snacks, water, and sunscreen. This mix of fire, folklore, and community spirit makes Guardamar’s San Juan celebration one of the biggest of the year.

Organised by the Royal Spanish Volleyball Federation (RFEVB), the competition is the ninth stage of the National Beach Volleyball Circuit, which began in Madrid in April and will travel to 17 locations across Spain, ending up in a grand finale in October.

Almost 100 athletes from the men’s and women’s categories are competing in this thrilling tournament, part of a circuit that attracts more than 1,200 competitors vying for the championship title and a substantial cash prize. Thousands of resi dents and tourists are expected to flock to La Ze

nia to cheer on Spain’s top teams and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

The event also features a beach club with food trucks, DJ entertainment, and children’s workshops, supplying fun for all ages. Admission is free, with open stands for spectators.

Local businesses have a unique opportunity to gain exposure as event sponsors. Interested potential sponsors can contact organisers via email or Messenger. For more details, visit the RFEVB website. Discover additional Orihue la Costa activities on the La

The Cages set to rock

LOCAL rock sensation

The Cages are set to play the El Capitan Sports Centre in Orihuela Costa with a high-energy concert on Sunday, June 22, at 4pm.

The Alicante-based quartet, Yasmin on vocals and guitar, Scott on bass, Eddy on drums, and Norberto on keyboard, promises an unforgettable afternoon of classic and modern rock hits.

gram or local tourism

Best known for their foot-tapping live shows and varied setlists, The Cages have been a staple of the Costa Blanca music scene since they formed in 2012. There’ll be a mix of original tracks and crowd-pleasing covers, depending on how the audience are feeling, with Yasmin’s powerful vocals and guitar riffs stealing the show.

The El Capitan Sports Centre is a great spot for community events and is ideal setting with its spa-

cious facilities and lively atmosphere. Admission is free, and the gig starts just after lunch at 4pm.

For more details, follow The Cages on Facebook or check local event listings.

The Cages current line up.

Nina Brunner of Swiss Olympic beach volleyball team.

Credit: Grindstone Media Group - Shutterstock

Labels warn of crisis

SHOPPERS across Spain have recently found yellow ‘SOS’ labels next to everyday food items. These are not marketing gimmicks but part of a Greenpeace campaign warning that ‘food is in danger’.

The campaign, launched in 17 cities including Madrid, Valencia and Bilbao, aims to highlight the environmental impact of industrial food production.

Volunteers placed the labels - each featuring a QR code linking to Greenpeace’s Revolución alimentaria report - on items like meat, fish and packaged goods in major supermarket chains such as Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, and Aldi.

Greenpeace argues that supermarkets have become key pressure points in a failing food system. The group warns that if Spain’s current food model continues, it could result in a 7 per cent rise in greenhouse gas emissions, a 53 per cent drop in global fish catches, and a 6 per cent loss of species by 2050. The causes include monoculture, over-farming, and excessive meat production.

The report proposes a shift to a more sustainable model based on the Mediterranean diet, favouring seasonal and local produce. It suggests this could reduce emissions by 116 per cent, cut water pollution by half, and increase food-related jobs by 35 per cent.

Madrid commuter rail

MADRID commuters face significant travel disruption this summer as major works at Atocha Cercanías station close several key rail lines throughout July and August 2025. The €54 million upgrade aims to increase the Sol tunnel’s capacity by 33 per cent and improve overall reliability by 50 per cent. However, the project requires phased closures affecting thousands of passengers during the busy holiday season.

From July 2 to July 30, Line C-5 will be suspended between Embajadores and Villaverde Alto, cutting a major north-south route. Free EMT bus services and Metro Line 3 detours will help ease the impact, with extra train capacity added on lines C-4 and C-10 during peak hours.

The second phase, from July 19 to August

30, involves a full closure of the Sol tunnel, suspending lines C-3 and C-4 between Chamartín and Atocha. This will disrupt journeys significantly, with Sol station closed and transfers required at Chamartín or Atocha. Alternative routes on lines C-2, C-7, C-8, and C-10 remain open, but commutes could be extended by 45 minutes or more.

The upgrade will widen platform 5 at Atocha, improve accessibility, and convert track 10 into a fully functional line. Adif says the works address bottlenecks at Atocha and Sol, preparing the network for future demand. While the improvements promise long-term benefits, this summer’s disruption may test commuters’ patience.

Shoppers in Spain are now seeing ‘SOS’ labels next to everyday food items.

Credit: Jupiterimages from Photo Images via Canva.com

Atocha Cercanías.

Credit: dimbar76, Shutterstock

A prime minister under pressure

THE prime minister and general secretary of the PSOE, Pedro Sánchez, apologised to the public on Thursday, June 12 for the alleged involvement of a party MP in a corruption case and announced that an external audit will be carried out on the party’s finances.

He also expressed his “deep disappointment” and, despite the impact this case is having on his party, confirmed that he will not call an early general election.

The current legislature, he insisted, will run its full course until 2027.

According to Sánchez, there is no government crisis.

The opposition, however, claims this could be the beginning of the end.

Speaking at a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Ca-

Sánchez declined to give details of the expected changes.

lle Ferraz, Madrid, following the resignation of party organisation secretary Santos Cerdán over his alleged role in the so-called Koldo case, Sánchez said his response to corruption would be as firm as the disappointment he feels.

“I want to offer my apologies to the public, because the Socialist Party – and I, as general secretary of the PSOE –should not have placed

our trust in him,” he said with a sombre expression, before more cameras and journalists than usual.

The leader of the Partido Popular, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, called for a general election following what he described as Pedro Sánchez’s “insufficient” and “disappointing” explanations regarding the corruption scandal engulfing the PSOE.

Animal injustice

ANIMAL rights activists exposed severe animal abuse at the Elsfleth slaughterhouse through undercover footage. Despite revealing shocking mistreatment, a court has now ordered them to pay €98,000 in damages to the slaughterhouse - a controversial outcome following their efforts to uncover cruelty.

GERMANY IRELAND

Wild chase

A 41-YEAR-OLD driver on Germany’s A52 near Dorsten crashed into a guardrail after losing control of his Mitsubishi. Attempting to evade police, he climbed over the barrier and swam across a nearby pond to obscure his trail. Authorities deployed a helicopter and a tracking dog before finding him soaked and he was arrested.

EURO PRESS

Child support

CHILD-RELATED benefits in Ireland have lifted around 157,000 children out of income poverty and 94,000 out of consistent poverty, according to a study by the Economic and Social Research Institute. The study highlights the significant impact of cash supports like Child Benefit and in-kind supports such as childcare subsidies and free school meals in reducing child poverty and deprivation.

Tackling toxicity

FRANCE will show the British Netflix series

Adolescence in secondary schools to tackle toxic masculinity and online misogyny. The drama follows a 13-year-old’s radicalisation and violence. The Education Ministry will offer five modules to students 14 and older, aiming to raise awareness about social media’s harmful effects.

Dignity defended

GISÈLE PELICOT, survivor from the mass rape trial, has settled a privacy case against Paris Match, which published unauthorised photos of her and her partner. Her lawyers accused the magazine of ‘having learnt nothing’ from the trial. As part of the settlement, Paris Match will donate €40,000 to groups supporting sexual violence victims.

PORTUGAL NETHERLANDS ITALY

Seabed clean-up

VOLUNTEERS recently cleared around 200 kg of trash from Quarteira beach seabed, removing items like fishing gear, cans, glass, plastics, and rope. Thirty divers participated, joined by local environmental groups, boosting both beach cleanliness and public awareness about protecting marine environments.

ID fraud

A 53-YEAR-OLD man was arrested at Vila Real de Santo António while trying to enter Portugal via ferry using stolen identity documents. The operation, led by the GNR’s Coastal and Border Control Unit and supported by Spanish authorities, confirmed the fake ID and led to his detention by the judicial court.

NORWAY

Green innovation

BERGEN, uses an advanced underground pneumatic waste system to transport trash via vacuum tubes, reducing traffic, pollution, and fire risks. Since 2007, it has connected more than 10,000 homes, boosting recycling by 15 per cent and saving $22 million in waste collection costs, serving as a model for urban waste management.

Arctic damage

TOURISTS stacking stones in Arctic Norway are harming fragile ecosystems and ancient Sami cultural sites, especially in Saltfjellet National Park. Despite regulations banning this practice, it continues, damaging landscapes and heritage. Experts call for greater awareness and stricter enforcement to protect these vulnerable natural areas.

FRANCE DENMARK

Historic rebuild

THE controversial Nyborg Castle project has officially resumed after a four-year pause. The €44 million restoration includes a new museum wing, ring wall, and raised watchtower. Completion is expected in 2028, following environmental assessments and legislation.

Data insights

DENMARK is monitoring opioid use by analysing wastewater from six major cities, providing an objective measure of legal and illegal opioid consumption. Tests occur twice yearly over a week to track trends and target prevention and treatment efforts. This complements existing data in the government’s strategy against substance abuse.

Grid delay

POWER grid expansion plans in the Netherlands are facing delays of up to 10 years in some regions due to surging electricity demand from heat pumps, EVs, and business electrification. Grid operators have paused new high-demand connections, and despite major investments, officials warn of possible outages starting as early as 2026.

Biting costs

A SHARP rise in dental avoidance in the Netherlands - caused by high costs - has led to worsening oral health, increased use of painkillers, and more expensive emergency treatments. Unions and charities urge restoring adult dental care to the basic health package, arguing prevention is ultimately more cost-effective.

FINLAND SWEDEN

Production pivot

FINNISH passports will no longer be made in Finland, as Thales, the company producing Finnish passports since 1987, is moving manufacturing to Poland, cutting 160 Finnish jobs. Personalisation and marketing will stay in Finland to keep personal data secure. Officials say the change won’t affect passport delivery times.

Time’s up

GREENPEACE activists climbed the clock tower of Helsinki Central Railway Station on unfurling a nine-metre ‘Time to resist’ banner as part of a global campaign. They remained at the site and handed out flyers until police arrived. The protest highlighted concerns over corporate influence and environmental policies.

Secret summit

THE GRAND HÔTEL in Stockholm was fully booked for the Bilderberg Group’s annual meeting, bringing together influential political, economic, and intellectual leaders from Europe and North America. Swedish police implemented special security measures to ensure the event’s safety, highlighting the importance and exclusivity of the gathering.

Swimsuit smuggler

A MAN in his 20s was caught in Stockholm hiding 42 chocolate cakes in his swimsuit during a theft attempt. Police described the act as systematic and serious. Rising chocolate prices, up over 20 per cent since last year, have prompted some retailers to add theft alarms to confectionery products.

Luxury lift

THIS summer, Uber is launching helicopter and boat services along Italy’s Amalfi Coast from July 26 to August 23. The Uber Copter offers private helicopter rides between Sorrento and Capri for €250 per person. Uber Reserve also lets travellers book rides in advance, easing airport and coastal transfers on busy weekends.

Mega project

ITALY plans to begin building the world’s largest suspension bridge this summer, linking Sicily to the mainland. The €13.5 billion project aims to boost the local economy by reducing travel time and creating jobs. However, critics highlight environmental concerns, high costs, and Italy’s history of unfinished infrastructure projects.

BELGIUM

Wildlife shield

OSTEND has established the first permanent coastal protection zone for seals at Klein Strand, installing a wooden fence from the Western to Eastern breakwater to prevent disturbances. Volunteers, sheltered by a beach cabin, previously monitored dogs and visitors, ensuring seals can rest undisturbed.

Media literacy

ACCORDING to a report by Artevelde University College, Flemish youth increasingly recognise fake news, with greater awareness since the pandemic. However, only about 3 per cent can identify all false stories, and distrust is rising - 34 per cent of 18-24 year olds express low trust in news.

Credit: Shutterstock / New Africa

Is charging for hand luggage a step too far? VOICE

EUROPE’S air travel landscape is heading for a shake-up. On June 5, EU transport ministers handed their support to a controversial new rule that could end the era of free cabin baggage. Once implemented, your only guaranteed free item will be a small bag stowed under the seat, as overhead luggage space will require added fees.

While airlines insist charging for extra bags supports low fares and offers consumer choice, critics say passengers expect a proper carry-on to be included and fear fees will hide behind ‘optional’ extras. With travellers divided, we asked our readers whether they think hand luggage fees are a step too far for low-cost airlines.

A significant number of commenters said ‘Yes’, opposing the fees and viewing them as unreasonable. Commenters like Andy Solomons, Alison Steele, Pat Martin, and many others argued that passengers should not have to pay extra for cabin baggage.

Smara Chiorean added: “Soon they are going to charge us for breathing and using the toilets on board... Just wait.”

Nigel Armitage took a humorous view: “If you pop to the markets here in Spain as soon as you land, it’s cheaper to buy your clothes rather than

pay for luggage. Just pop a spare pair of pants and socks in your pocket, Bob’s your uncle.”

Penny Lee commented on the changing costs of budget airlines: “I don’t like the new prices; budget airlines were the go-to for the flights that let us have our dream breaks at affordable prices. Now they charge and are perhaps no longer much cheaper than the other airlines...”

Others were more neutral or emphasised choice over fairness, such as Susan Eaton, who remarked: “No, as flight prices would go up to compensate. You choose if you want hand luggage.”

Josie Denham agreed: “No. It’s better to have cheap flights and pay for the luggage if you want it.”

Graham Creasy concluded: “No, it’s a choice. If you don’t want to pay it, don’t... I certainly don’t want increased air fees so that a bag can be included for everyone when I don’t need it.”

In the end, while most comments opposed the fees, the debate over hand luggage fees raises concerns about transparency, fairness, and the true cost of low-cost travel. Whether passengers see the fees as fair or unnecessary, one thing is clear: budget air travel as we know it is changing.

The era of free cabin baggage could be coming to an end.

The coast with the most

THE 2025 Costa Blanca property scene is alive and kicking. According to Engel & Völkers, average apartment prices now stand at €2,971 per m² - a 6.4 per cent increase year on year, while houses average €2,496/m², up 8.3 per cent. Across the wider Valencian Community, new dwellings surged 23 per cent in 2024 and urban land prices climbed 2 per cent annually, according to Global Property Guide - clear signals of accelerating demand.

Local experts also point to significant

differences between Costa Blanca’s northern and southern markets. While the north appeals to buyers seeking traditional villas and natural scenery, the south draws interest for its long beaches, golf resorts, and vibrant international communities. According to Spanish Property Insight, sales across the Costa Blanca North rose by 6 per cent year-on-year in early 2024, with 29,366 transactions recorded. Growth is balancing after a post pandemic surge, but investor appetite - especially from the

UK, Northern Europe and the increasing remote worker demographic - remains strong.

On the national stage, Spain’s resale home prices jumped 10.7 per cent by November 2024, reaching €2,244/m². This is the fastest increase since 2006, according to Idealista. Rentals also rose sharply: average monthly rents across Spain hit €14/m² in early 2025 - a 10.3 per cent annual increase - driven by intensifying demand. These trends are echoed locally, reinforcing the appeal of

Costa Blanca’s holiday rental and livin’ la vida loca markets.

Read on for a finely tuned summary of the Costa Blanca property market. From urban hubs and tranquil seaside villages to general homeware trends and advice. Whether you’re seeking a holiday home, retirement haven or rental investment, step confidently into today’s vibrant Costa Blanca property scene. With demand outpacing supply in many towns, buyers are acting fast to secure their spot in this sun-soaked Spanish region.

Early Summer Surge:

Why June is the last big window for sellers before the holiday high season

AS June unfolds along the Costa Blanca South, we’re entering the final - and often most decisive - window for serious property sales before the traditional summer high season. At Vistacasas, we’re seeing motivated international buyers eager to secure their spot in the sun, and for sellers, this is your chance to capitalise.

The clock is ticking - and so are buyer decisions

With July and August bringing the heat and holiday distractions, many buyers are locking in decisions now to avoid delays.

Properties in hotspots like La Zenia, Cabo Roig, and Villamartin are moving quicklyespecially those that are turn-key ready and well-marketed.

Why June still works for sellers

There’s a unique urgency in the air. Buyers are planning relocations, securing rentals, and looking to finalise deals. Listing your property now means you still benefit from peak visibility without getting lost in the summer noise.

Smart marketing is the game-changer

Our team at Vistacasas uses professional photography, immersive virtual tours, and digital campaigns that reach active international buyers wherever they arewhether that’s in the UK, Scandinavia, Belgium, or beyond. And we manage the full process, even if you’re selling from abroad.

List now, relax later

The goal? Get your property sold before July’s holiday mindset kicks in. If you’re considering a sale, now’s the time to act while buyer demand is still high, viewings are easy to schedule, and negotiations are moving fast.

Ready to get started? Visit www. sellwithvistacasas.com for your free valuation and let’s make your property the next success story.

Visit us in our Villamartin Plaza (behind BBVA Bank) OR Playa Flamenca office (near Sunny Corner Bar) info@vistacasas.com

Locksmith’s viral TikTok

A SIMPLE upgrade to your front door could help protect your home from thieves and squatters - and it’s more affordable than many think. Spanish locksmith Dismaur, now a TikTok sensation, has gone viral with a straightforward security tip: install a metal shield over your lock cylinder. This security cover hides the type of lock you have, making it harder for burglars to know what tools or techniques to use.

With squatting incidents rising in Spain and eviction processes often slow, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to secure their properties. Dismaur warns that leaving your cylinder exposed is a major risk, as it offers intruders a blueprint for breaking in. By covering the lock, you add a crucial barrier that can delay or deter break-ins - often enough to make criminals move on.

For those willing to invest more, he recommends high-security op-

trick

Retro revival

One simple fix to your front door could stop thieves and squatters in their tracks - and it’s not as expensive as you think.

tions like the KESO 8000 OMEGA 2 ULTRA cylinder with a SAG bolt. But even a basic shield offers a strong first line of defence. Dismaur stresses that the goal isn’t to make your home impenetrable, but to make it not worth the effort. He also advises combining the shield with other deterrents, such as alarms, window locks, and keeping homes looking occupied. In Spain’s fight against okupas, even small security upgrades can make a big difference.

RETRO bathrooms are enjoying a big comeback, and it’s easy to see why. They bring charm and personality that modern, minimalist spaces often lack. Moving away from plain white schemes, today’s designs celebrate bold colours, fun patterns, and vintage character.

Bringing retro style into your bathroom doesn’t mean copying the past exactly. It’s more about blending old and new. A patterned wallpaper with a vintage print is an easy way to start. Adding bold colours, like soft pinks or mint greens, helps capture that nostalgic feel without being overwhelming.

You can also go classic with black-andwhite checker board tiles, or bring in retro materials like terrazzo, which was big in the mid-20th century. A free-standing bath with curved lines, inspired by Art Deco or Victorian styles, adds elegance and a touch of drama. Mixing pieces from different decades can give your bathroom a well-loved, lived-in look.

Why

Blanca matters -

BUYING a home in Spain is a dream for many - sun-soaked beaches, relaxed Mediterranean living, and the chance to wake up each day to the sound of the sea and the warmth of the sun. But turning that dream into a reality takes more than just good weather and beautiful views - it takes trust, guidance, and the right local expertise.

That’s why having a reliable and experienced real estate agent in Spain is not just helpful - it’s essential. From navigating the legal system and understanding the local property market, to managing paperwork and ensuring nothing is left to chance, your real estate agent is your guide, your advocate, and your support system all in one.

Costa Blanca - a place to call home

This month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on what makes our presence on the Costa Blanca so unique. With its

charming towns, a strong international community, excellent services, and that authentic Spanish lifestyle everyone falls in love with, Costa Blanca offers an unmatched blend of tranquility and convenience.

• Expert sales team - Our multilingual agents are not just knowledgeable

about properties; they’re passionate about the area. We’ll show you the homes and also the lifestyle - guiding you through neighbourhoods, services, and hidden gems you won’t always find online.

• Full support during the purchase process - From negotiations to notary

here to make sure it does. Call us on +34 865 888 888 Or visit www.costa-blanca-eiendom.com/contact

appointments, we manage every detail to make the process clear and secure.

• Post-sale services - We go beyond the sale. Need help furnishing your home, managing renovations, or even setting up utilities? We have dedicated teams for after-sales care, legal services, and property administration.

• Move in with peace of mind - We make sure your property is not just purchased, but prepared and personalised, so you can start enjoying life in Costa Blanca from day one.

Let’s make your move to Spain simple and memorable

Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or you’re ready to buy, our team is here to guide, support, and inspire you at every step. We believe buying property in Spain shouldn’t feel like a risk - it should feel like the best decision of your life.

Shared property in Spain

or place solar panels on the roof? Who decides on the colour of doors and façades in a residential complex, or when the lift will be repaired?

In Spain, decisions like these are not left to individual homeowners. Instead, they’re typically regulated by the junta de propietarios - the residents’ meeting that governs shared properties under the Spanish Horizontal Property Act (Ley de Propiedad Horizontal, LPH).

These meetings are the core decisionmaking body for any building or residential complex. They approve budgets, discuss maintenance, and vote on changes like installing solar panels or upgrading lifts. Each homeowner has the right to attend and vote - but only if they’re up to date with community fees. Tenants and nonowners can only join if they hold written authorisation from an owner.

There are two types of meetings: ordinary (held at least once a year for routine matters) and extraordinary (called when urgent issues arise). Extraordinary sessions can take place as often as needed and may be triggered by the president or a group representing at least

25 per cent of the ownership shares. Meeting notices must be

communicated clearly, with at least six days’ notice for ordinary sessions. Channels can include email, printed notices or even WhatsApp - if all owners have agreed on that method. If meetings are called incorrectly, their decisions risk being invalidated. Decision-making rules vary depending

installations require one-third of owners to approve, accessibility upgrades yet formally regulate online meetings. Still, digital tools have helped increase

need a simple majority, and changes to community statutes demand unanimous agreement. Importantly, improvements considered non-essential can’t be forced on dissenting owners if they don’t benefit directly.

Since the pandemic, many communities have turned to virtual

participation, especially for voting and sharing information.

Ultimately, the junta de propietarios ensures that life in communal spaces runs smoothly. For expats navigating Spanish property life, knowing the rulesand their voting rights - is the first step to becoming an active and informed

A NAME TO REMEMBER!

Natalie and the multilingual team have some exciting news to share. The business has rebranded and is now Wolf Whelan Homes with the company motto ‘Hunting down your dream home in the sun!’ Their services include buying and selling properties, mortgages, currency exchange, NIE and TIE, financial and legal advice.

NATALIE has been in the Costa Blanca for 25 years. She says she got into the business “when I bought my first house here, I made friends with the estate agent and started doing videos for them and then it picked up. I’d basically been training up with other estate agents and seeing how they worked.

“I started my business during Covid selling properties online and sold at least 53 in the first year.” When we were allowed back out again, I set up my own office in Playa Flamenca, more and more customers arrived and that’s how I was able to add people to the office there. We’ve got a great team.”

The estate agency focuses on resale properties. “Most people come from Europe and the UK via our website and social media and when they arrive in Spain, they are handed over to the experienced team.”

Energy hog

THINK your fridge or washing ma chine is to blame for high energy bills? Think again. In Spanish ho mes, the biggest energy guzzler is often hiding in plain sight: the induction hob.

Natalie said they sell homes to about 75 per cent of those that come out to Spain. And “people are not just from the UK, but Ireland, Belgium, Norway, Iceland, America, Australia, everywhere, because everyone wants to find a place in the sun.” The key to providing

That sleek surface where you boil pasta or fry eggs uses more electricity than most other appliances.

While fridges and dryers run longer, the induction hob draws huge power in short, intense bursts, especially when all burners are cranked up.

Over time, those quick sessions add up. Electricity prices in Spain have climbed steadily, making energy awareness vital for saving money, not just for being eco-friendly.

People often unplug TVs, use LED bulbs, and limit heating, but the kitchen hob slips under the radar.

You don’t need to give up home-cooked meals to cut costs. Smarter cooking habits help: use lids on pots to speed up heating, try batch cooking, turn off the hob early to use residual heat, and stick to medium power when possible. Also, some Spanish electricity plans offer cheaper rates during certain hours, like mid-afternoon or late at night.

Timing your cooking sessions could make a real difference. The next time you’re at the stove, think before blasting every burner on high.

Your energy bill - and your budget - will thank you.

find people their best fit. We tour with clients, show them areas and ask them to decide where best matches their lifestyle. Taking care of all their wants and needs to specification.” They said “Take a leap of faith with us and let us guide you smoothly through the buying process.” Whether its resales, new builds, bank repossessions or golf and country properties.

Pop along and visit Natalie and the team in person to assist you in making your next dream come true!

a high-quality service is giving clients: “As much information as possible, we put them in touch with lawyers and offer a personal touch nobody ese does. They’re not just a number to us. We know it’s a scary and exciting leap buying a home abroad, we want to

Calle Guapilies, Local 3, Playa Flamenca 03189 natalie@wolfwhelanhomes.es www.wolfwhelenhomes.es Contact

Landlord tax

LANDLORDS in Spain could be missing out on thousands of euros if they’re not claiming appliance costs on their tax returns. Renting out a property isn’t cheap, especially when tenants expect fully equipped kitchens with fridges, washing machines and ovens as standard.

But under Spanish tax law, landlords can deduct part of the cost of those appliances - provided certain conditions are met. The rule is simple: the appliance must be installed, in use, and serving the rental property for at least one year. Short-term rentals or spare items kept in storage don’t qualify. Instead of claiming the full amount at once, landlords must amortise the cost over timetypically deducting 10 per cent of the purchase price each year. For example, a €600 oven

would allow a €60 annual deduction. Over time, those savings can add up. The deductions aren’t just limited to kitchen gear either. Improvements like air conditioning units, stair lifts, heating systems and even security doors can also be included, provided they enhance the property’s livability.

Tax consultant Juan Gutiérrez advises

landlords to make the most of these benefits, reminding property owners that smart investments not only attract better tenants but also ease the financial burden come tax season. In Spain’s increasingly competitive rental market, every euro counts - and knowing how to recover costs legally could give landlords a much-needed edge.

Credit : Zerbor, Shutterstock

Landlords in Spain can claim appliance deductions on their 2024 tax return.

Credit : brizmaker, Shutterstock

A guide to buying land to build your dream home in Spain

MORE and more expats in Spain are ditching the search for a ready-made home and opting to build from the ground up. Whether it’s the appeal of designing every detail yourself or simply a way to get better value for money, buying land and building your own property offers a unique opportunity.

But it’s not without its complications. If you’re thinking about going down this route, it pays to understand the key steps and potential pitfalls before you break ground.

Choosing the right plot

Spain categorises land primarily into two types: rústico and urbano. Rústico land is typically rural and often lacks essential infrastructure, making it unsuitable for residential construction. Conversely, urbano land is designated for development and usually has access to utilities like water, electricity, and sewage systems. However, even urbano plots may require additional investments to ensure full habitability.

Before purchasing, you’ll want to obtain a nota simple from the Land Registry to check for any existing debts or

legal issues associated with the land. Additionally, consulting the local Plan General de Ordenación Urbana and obtaining a certificado urbanístico will provide insights into zoning regulations, building restrictions, and permissible land use.

Understanding the timeline

Building a home in Spain is a marathon, not a sprint. The design phase can span several months, followed by a four to six week period to prepare the building licence application. Approval for this licence may take additional months or even years, depending on the municipality. Once construction commences,

Sunrise Energy

SUNRISE ENERGY, is the local solar company you can trust to provide an impeccable and swift service. Joelle and Jose set up their business here in Spain after moving to Elche in 2022.

Joelle explained: “We are a small company, my husband has more than 11 years of experience in The Netherlands and Spain installing Solar Energy systems.

“After working for other companies, we decided to start our own. We started with one customer a week, that grew by word of mouth and a good reputation, to two or three installations a week. We have 35 five-star reviews on Google and take great pride in the service we provide our customers.”

One happy customer said “I cannot recommend these people highly enough. It’s lovely to see people take such pride in their work. Thank you, Sunrise Energy!”

They organise everything at each step of the installation process. “We arrange everything for our customers, from permits to installations and work with Iberdrola so that the customer doesn’t have to do anything. We speak English, Dutch and Spanish, it’s

a small family business, so, our goal is that every customer is happy with the installations, we listen to what they want and consider how many solar panels are needed for their house’s energy consumption.” Sunrise Energy can even cater to those with specific brand

needs as they work with multiple companies to help source the panels that customers need for their systems.

Joelle explained installations are done by a team of three people. “We work with two self-employed fitters and we always try to complete in one

expect a timeline of up to two years before completion.

Financial planning and currency considerations

Financing a self-build project involves more than just the cost of land and construction. Additional expenses include surveys, legal fees, permits, and utility connections. It’s essential to create a comprehensive budget that accounts for these variables.

Those expatriates wishing to transfer funds to Spain to finance the project will also need to consider how fluctuating exchange rates can significantly impact their overall costs.

Unfavourable exchange rate movements can lead to unexpected expenses. While transfer fees can also eat into your budget.

With Currencies Direct you’ll benefit from competitive exchange rates, no transfer fees and a range of transfer options to help your money go further. Learn more about Currencies Direct by contacting your local branch. Alternatively, pop into one of our branches and speak to our multilingual experts.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

day but of course if it is raining, sometimes it takes slightly longer.

“We legalise very quickly, usually within one or two days, to a couple of weeks because until your panels have been legalised you can’t send electricity back to the grid.”

Prospective clients can easily schedule a visit from Jose, find out what system best fits the client’s house, roof and fuse box. Jose uses the information he takes from the house and adds it to solar software systems where “we can draw and calculate what the quoted equipment will look like on a tiled roof or flat roof etc. Then we make a quote by email and I always message a few days later to ask if there are any questions.”

“We ask for 50 per cent downpayment and then we start with the permits at the town hall, normally it takes about four to six weeks after that for full installation.”

To contact Sunrise Energy for a quote, go to their website www.sun riseenergy.es or phone Joelle on 644 797 751, the company usually gets back in contact within 24 hours.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

AI fraud spike

FRAUD losses in the UK jumped 12 per cent last year to over £1 billion, driven by criminals using AI deepfakes and voice clones. Banks are being urged to deploy more adaptive AI tools to combat increasingly sophisticated financial scams and identity spoofing.

L’Oréal purchase

ON June 9, L’Oréal announced the acquisition of a majority stake in British dermocosmetics brand Medik8 - valued at around €1 billion - boosting its Luxe division. The deal, backed by JPMorgan and with Inflexion retaining a minority share, solidifies L’Oréal’s science-based skincare expansion.

China–Spain ties

CHINA’S VP Han Zheng opened a four-day visit to Spain on June 10, meeting King Felipe and PM Sánchez. Talks focused on Chinese investment in green tech, EV batteries, and hydrogen, while Madrid aims to boost tourism by 36 per cent from China this summer.

Abacum Series B

BARCELONA founded Abacum has secured a €52.5 million Series B led by Scale Venture Partners, with Cathay Innovation, Y Combinator, Creandum, Kfund and Atomico also investing. The business planning SaaS uses Agentic AI to unify financial data, accelerate scenario modelling and scale in the US, which now drives over half its revenue.

OfI revamp

THE UK has officially relaunched its Office for Investment, under joint leadership of Downing Street and the Department for Business and Trade. The revamped OfI will actively court high-impact foreign direct investment in tech, AI, green energy and scaleups - creating a more startup-friendly climate and supporting sustainable growth.

STAT OF WEEK

Spain’s tax agency has already paid €5.516 billion in refunds to 7,965,000 taxpayers.

Growth forecast cut

THE Bank of Spain has revised its 2025 economic growth forecast down from 2.7 to 2.4 per cent, citing global uncertainty and Trump tariffs as key reasons.

Governor José Luis Escrivá made the announcement on June 10, during a speech in Spain’s Congress of Deputies.

Escrivá linked the drop to weaker foreign demand and trade tensions driven by new US tariff policies. While Spain’s direct trade with the US is limited, some industries, including chemicals, are more vulnerable due to global supply chain exposure.

“The Spanish economy is experiencing a growth slowdown from rates above 3 per cent to around 2.5 per cent in the first half of 2025,” Escrivá explained.

In a potential worst-case scenario with continued tariff escalation,

growth could shrink by another 0.4 percentage points.

Meanwhile, the Bank projects average inflation to hit 2.4 per cent in 2025 – down slightly from the previous 2.5 per cent estimate. Unemployment is expected to hold steady at 10.5 per cent.

Escrivá also addressed the resig-

Startup raises €189m

SPANISH startup Multiverse Computing has raised €189 million ($217 million) to scale its breakthrough AI compression technology, CompactifAI, which shrinks large language models (LLMs) by up to 95 per cent with no performance loss.

The San Sebastian-based firm announced the Series B funding on June 12, led by Bullhound Capital, with support from HP Inc, Forgepoint Capital, Toshiba, and several public-private European investors.

CEO Enrique Lizaso Olmos said:

“What started as a breakthrough in model compression quickly proved transformative - unlocking new efficiencies in AI deployment.” (Cited by MultiverseComputing.com).

The tool, inspired by quantum physics, can cut AI inferen-

nation of economics director Ángel Gavilán, stressing it was unrelated to the bank’s recent annual report:

“I am delighted with Mr Gavilán. I would not have wanted him to have left,” Escrivá said. With global economic pressures mounting, do Spain’s revised targets still feel realistic?

ce costs by up to 80 per cent and run models on smaller devices like phones, drones, and even Raspberry Pi.

Compressed versions of Llama, DeepSeek, and Mistral are already live, with more to follow. According to Bullhound’s Per Roman, Multiverse is helping drive ‘European sovereignty’ in AI.

Deficit drop Spending review

CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves unveiled the UK’s 2025 Spending Review, boosting defence, the NHS, and AI, while slashing foreign aid.

Defence gets an £11bn uplift, while the NHS gains £29bn a year, plus £10bn for digital upgrades. Reeves pledged £2bn for homegrown AI and £30bn for nuclear power.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Office sees an 8.3 per cent cut, and asylum hotel use will end by 2029.

SPAIN’S budget deficit is forecast to fall from 3.2 to 2.8 per cent of GDP in 2025, according to the government’s Annual Progress Report.

The improvement is driven by VAT reversals, new fiscal measures, and stable expenditure. Revenue is expected to rise 6.3 per cent, outpacing nominal GDP growth.

However, structural challenges persist, with public debt projected to remain high at 101.7 per cent of GDP.

Defence spending will grow but is offset by cuts elsewhere. The report confirms Spain will meet EU fiscal rules – but just barely.

GIBRALTAR will raise its sales tax from 3 per cent to at least 15 per cent within three years under a new UK-EU post-Brexit deal, aligning with EU VAT rules to avoid unfair competition with Spain.

The agreement also shifts customs checks on all goods entering the British territory to Spanish authorities, mainly at Algeciras port.

Gibraltar’s airport will close to cargo, impacting logistics and fuelling costs for local businesses.

ZARA’S parent company Inditex reported a 6 per cent revenue rise in early Q2, but warned that currency fluctuations could cut sales by 3 per cent this year, up from the 1 per cent previously expected.

Shares dropped 6.4 per cent in early Madrid trading. Barclays analysts said the update “fails to dispel concerns on slowing growth.” Inditex expects global demand and FX volatility to weigh further on results in 2025.

Footballers in €3m crypto scam

TOP football players including Papu Gómez, Lucas Ocampos, and Iván Rakitic are under investigation in Barcelona for promoting a failed NFT project that allegedly defrauded investors of €3 million.

The company, Shirtum Europa SLU, used the players’ images to market $SHI tokens and NFTs, which never delivered value or utility.

Accusers claim funds vanished without explanation, and prosecutors are investigating fraud and misappropriation. Personal ties between Gómez and one of the promoters may complicate his legal exposure.

THOUSANDS of Poundland jobs are at risk after the retailer was sold for just €1 to US firm Gordon Brothers, former owners of Laura Ashley. The sale includes a restructuring plan and repayment of tens of millions to former owner Pepco Group, which retains a minority stake.

Up to 100 stores could shut across the UK and Ireland, putting pressure on the chain’s 16,000 workers.

Governor José Luis Escrivá.

Multiverse.

3I Group 4.129,00 4.141,00 4.109,00 36,33K

Group 3.300,40 3.307,20 3.286,00 12,87K

Airtel Africa 176 178 175,5 169,71K Anglo American 2.152,00 2.156,00 2.131,00 101,04K Antofagasta 1.815,00 1.821,00 1.804,42 52,44K Ashtead Group 4.298,00 4.299,00 4.270,00 35,23K Associated British Foods 2.042,00 2.047,00 2.035,00 16,85K

10.920,00 10.946,00 10.890,00 50,21K Auto Trader Group Plc 810,8 814,6 810,4 37,62K Aviva 606,2 607,13 603,6 288,56K

B&M European Value Retail SA

261,5 256,5 545,07K BAE Systems 1.946,00 1.953,50 1.940,00 411,08K

324,07 325,1 319,65 4,02M Barratt Redrow 473,3 475,9 471,4 83,27K

Beazley 921,5 927,5 918,5 51,38K Berkeley 4.254,00 4.280,00 4.246,00 4,14K

BP 390,75 393,8 390,45 4,31M British American Tobacco 3.605,00

BUSINESS

EXTRA

VodafoneThree 5G

FOLLOWING its £16.5 bn merger, VodafoneThree has unveiled an £11 billion investment plan to roll out standalone 5G across 99.95 per cent of the UK by 2034 (up from 47 per cent). This will create 400 contact centre jobs now, plus 9,000 roles over the next eight years.

Summer hotel staff

THOUSANDS of hotel workers across the Canary and Balearic Islands threaten rolling strikes every Friday from July onward, protesting pay and conditions. Despite wage offers between 9.513.5 per cent, unions say they’re insufficient. The disruption could impact Spain’s crucial summer tourism, advising visitors to plan ahead.

BBVA has become the fourth-largest bank financing data centres in the US between January and May 2025, according to its Global Head of Sustainability and CIB, Javier Rodríguez Soler. Speaking at an event hosted by the Spain-US Chamber of Commerce in Houston, Rodríguez Soler reaffirmed BBVA’s growing footprint in the US, calling it the bank’s fastest-expanding corporate market.

He highlighted surging demand for energy due to electrification, artificial intelligence, and digitalisation - factors driving investment in infrastructure like power

BBVA ranks in US

Freixenet deal

FREIXENET workers have reached a preliminary deal with the cava producer to reduce planned layoffs from 180 to 156, including 32 early retirements, following union negotiations. The adjusted figure brings actual job losses down to 124. The agreement includes severance compensation of 50 days’ salary per year worked, with no

cap. A strike that began has now been called off after workers voted to accept the terms on June 4. Freixenet cites the ongoing three-year drought in Catalonia as the reason for severe operational disruptions. The company insists the cuts are ‘urgent’ to ensure long-term sustainability in the face of climate and supply challenges.

grids, renewable energy, and data storage. “Clean technologies are not only necessary - they are also a profitable option,” he stressed.

BBVA’s sustainability-focused strategy includes a new Houston hub and expanded operations in New York and Miami. The bank sees major opportunities in Texas, with $700 billion needed for power transmission and 800 gigawatts of renewable energy expected across the US by 2035.

Rodríguez Soler also underlined BBVA’s role as a bridge between Spain, Mexico, and the US, tapping into nearshoring trends. The bank aims to channel €700 billion in sustainable business by 2029, up from €304 billion since 2018.

The event was attended by Spain’s Economy Minister and marked the launch of a Spanish investment barometer for the US.

Snap UK leader

SNAP (the parent company of Snapchat) has appointed Jake Thomas as its new Senior Commercial Director for the UK, based in London.

Previously Head of UAE Operations since 2017, he’ll now drive Snap’s UK business and digital strategy, managing brand partnerships, monetisation models, and a high-performance commercial team.

SPAIN has the highest banking concentration in the EU. The top five financial institutions in the Spanish market account for a 69.5 per cent share. This is ahead of Italy (48.7 per cent), France (45.3 per cent), and Germany (33.4 per cent), according to European Central Bank data.

BBVA, Houston, Texas.

Credit: Brett Hondow, Shutterstock.

Way to earn respect

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

WHAT on earth is going on with the British police force? They continually gripe about being undermanned and ill equipped. They moan about being so weighed down with work they have been forced to downgrade ‘risk assessment’ of crimes to a ridiculous level and are constantly moaning that they simply ‘can’t cope’ with the latest crime figures. As legitimate as these claims may be, the precious plod does seem to find the time to, dance around maypoles, thread their boots with rainbow laces and appear in a whole host of police reality programmes!

Well, whereas laces and prancing about may not be very time consuming, I can assure you reality programmes most certainly are. There are a dozen different cop shows running at the moment, from Cops in the Sky to the most recent which concerns endeavouring to seize criminal’s assets. Well, I’ve done a number of reality programmes (including a few I would rather forget!) and I

can assure you they take forever. Every five minutes you see on the screen can take hours to shoot. The retakes alone can be unbelievably time consuming. How can these ‘overworked’, rushed off their feet officers of the law, possibly find the time to be ‘reality stars’?

Another thing these shows are inclined to do is eat into the respect the public should hold for its upholders of law and order. Any aura of mystique or invincibility is stripped away by these programmes, which often show the utter contempt a small number of individuals have for the upholders of law and order.

With the wide publicity television creates, public disorder and criminal acts are then copied by other members of toe rag society, who would normally be wary of the unknown consequences their actions could bring. Respect for the law is obtained by solving crime and putting away the bad guys, not strutting around like the jumped-up, ego-tripping American TV robo cops. Let’s all get back to the true reality.

The fact is that glamourising the police doesn’t do one iota toward rooting out criminals. Posing on Telly and sig-

ning autographs simply doesn’t hack it. It’s time the powers that be put a complete ban on all Cop reality shows. Let’s restrict their TV appearances to announcements of successful conclusions to crime investigations. Now that’s the way to earn respect.

‘Oh, to be in England now that April’s here’ - well June anyway. Those immortal words from the pen of Robert Browning have never been more evident than my last few days of yet another quick sojourn to the ol’ country. My previous visit dumped me in the middle of the coldest spell for years, with people shuffling around liked iced up Eskimos. Not this time however. The beast from the east has been replaced by the shimmering sunshine of the south. The embankment of the Thames was quite magnificent, with sunlight bouncing off the water and terraces abounding with the blossoms of late Magnolias and lightly clad Londoners, all celebrating the fact that summer has most definitely arrived. Will it last? Probably not - Your Spanish vacation will be waiting! Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

World’s oldest restaurant

IN Madrid, two historic taverns - Sobrino de Botín and Casa Pedro - are vying for the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest restaurant. Sobrino de Botín currently holds the title, officially recognised in 1987, with a founding date of 1725 and 300 years of uninterrupted service. Located near Plaza Mayor, it is famed for its roast suckling pig, slow-cooked in a centuries-old wood-fired oven.

Literary figures such as Ernest Hemingway, Truman Capote, and F Scott Fitzgerald were frequent guests.

Third-generation owner Antonio González notes Guinness requires evidence of continuous operation at the same site under the same name. Meanwhile, Casa Pedro, located on the outskirts of Madrid, claims it was founded in 1702. If verified, it would be 23

years older than Botín. The Guiñales family has hired a historian and found documents dating the tavern to at least 1750.

Casa Pedro, known for its rustic charm and wine menus, has served high-profile guests including King Juan Carlos I and King Felipe VI. Guinness rules out other historic restaurants like Paris’s Le Procope and Beijing’s Bianyifang for not meeting continuity criteria. For now, the title remains with Botín, but Casa Pedro’s claim continues to be investigated.

Leapy

Inside the Sobrino de Botín restaurant.

Heist with creative twist

A BREAK-IN at Kunstlåven, the Seljord Art Barn in Norway, left more than just destruction behind - it also left a surprise. After ransacking nine rooms and stealing or damaging over 150 works, the burglars painted their own picture on the back of an existing canvas and left it there.

The burglary took place in late February and shocked the Seljord Art Association. Canvases were slashed, sculptures smashed, and a knife was even stabbed into a doll’s head. Sixty-six works were stolen, 85 vandalised.

Strangely, one room had been used as a hideout. The lights were on, and the space was tidy. The burglars stayed there for days and, at that time, created their own artwork on the

back of a painting by local artist Willy Eimerdal Jensen.

The thief-made picture is still with the art association, which has decided not to throw it away. “Usable, within its genre,” is how it was described. Whether it will ever be exhibited remains unclear.

Four people from Seljord have now been charged and have admitted to being in the barn. Many artworks have been recovered thanks to tips from the public.

While police continue the investigation, the case has already drawn national attention. For Norwegians living in Spain, it’s a reminder that even in peaceful towns like Seljord, art and crime can collide in the most unexpected ways.

Seljord art heist ends with surprise discovery.

Credit: Seljord Art Association

Sipping slimmer

WHEN it comes to reducing belly fat, the right drinks can support your efforts by boosting metabolism, curbing cravings, and helping the body shed excess water. While no drink alone can magically melt fat, some natural options can be effective when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Green tea is one of the best-known fat-burning drinks. Rich in antioxidants called catechins, it can help increase metabolism and support the body’s ability to burn fat, especially around the midsection.

Black coffee, in moderation, can also help. Its natural caffeine content boosts energy and may encourage the body to use fat as fuel. Avoid sugary additions to keep it effective.

Warm water with lemon each morning supports digestion and hydration, helping to reduce bloating and kick start the metabolism for the day ahead.

Apple cider vinegar, when diluted in water, may help control blood sugar and reduce fat storage. It is best taken before meals.

Finally, peppermint tea can ease bloating and improve digestion, making your sto mach feel flatter and more comforta ble.

For the best results, these drinks should be part of a wider healthy li festyle that includes mindful eating, movement, and plenty of sleep.

Why can’t we tickle ourselves? A puzzling study

DESPITE being a common sensation, scientists still don’t fully understand tickling - how it works, why it makes us laugh, or why we can’t tickle ourselves. A new review published on May 23 in Science Advances highlights how much remains mysterious.

Neuroscientist Konstantina Kilteni from Radboud University, Netherlands, led the study, pointing out tickling is one of neuroscience’s most understudied sensory behaviours. Even historical figures like Socrates and Darwin struggled to explain it, and modern science has yet to do much better.

The review outlines five key questions: Why are certain areas like armpits and feet more ticklish,

despite not being the most sensitive? Why do people laugh even when they don’t enjoy being tickled? Why can’t we tickle ourselves? Why do ticklishness levels vary so widely between individuals? And what is tickling’s purpose - social bonding or evolutio-

nary protection?

The study distinguishes between gargalesis - the laugh-inducing tickling we can’t perform on ourselves - and knismesis, a light, non-laughing sensation.

Kilteni suggests using robots to deliver precise, repeatable tickles in ex-

periments, which could reveal how our brains process touch and emotion, and provide insights into disorders affecting touch perception.

“Tickling is a scientific puzzle,” Kilteni concludes. “We’re only at the beginning.”

Photo By:

MUSIC is a powerful tool for improving both health and overall well-being. Beyond simple enjoyment, it can positively influence the body and mind in remarkable ways.

Healing harmonies

Firstly, music is a proven stress reliever. Slow, soothing tracks can lower heart rate and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, helping you to feel calmer and more in control. It is an easy way to manage anxiety and create a peaceful atmosphere.

Secondly, music can support better sleep. Gentle melodies before bedtime

help relax the nervous system, making it easier to drift off and stay asleep through the night. This is particularly helpful for those who struggle with insomnia.

Thirdly, upbeat music can enhance physical activity. Whether walking, running or doing yoga, music boosts motivation and can improve performance while making exercise feel

more enjoyable.

Fourthly, music can ease pain. Studies have shown that listening to music can reduce the perception of discomfort, especially in hospital or recovery settings.

Lastly, music improves mood. Whether through singing, dancing or simply listening, music releases endorphins and boosts emotional well-being, offering comfort and joy.

In every stage of life, music remains a simple yet powerful tool for better health.

Shimmering sirens

MERMAID eyes are making a splash this summer, capturing the playful, ethereal spirit of sunsoaked days by the sea.

Inspired by the mythical creatures of the deep, this beauty trend is all about shimmering, iridescent colours that mimic the ocean’s many hues - think blues, greens, purples and soft silvers.

The result is a whimsical, almost otherworldly look that’s perfect for beach parties or simply adding a touch of magic to your everyday style.

To achieve mermaid eyes, start with a smooth, neutral base on your lids to help the colours pop. Apply a wash of iridescent blue or teal eyeshadow, blending it out towards the crease for a soft, diffused effect. Add a touch of shimmer at the inner corners to brighten and open the eyes, and use a contrasting shade - like a lilac or seafoam green - along the lower lash line for an extra hint of ocean-inspired drama.

Finish with waterproof mascara to keep your look flawless, even after a dip in the sea or a dash through summer showers.

Natural solution for mosquitoes

SUMMER in Spain means open windows, warm nights - and mosquitoes. For many households, the constant buzzing and biting is more than a nuisance. While chemical sprays and plug-ins dominate supermarket shelves, a growing number of people are turning to a simple, low-cost homemade trap that’s natural and surprisingly effective.

This DIY solution has gained popularity across Spain for its safety and ease. Unlike chemical repellents, it uses common kitchen ingredients, making it suitable for homes with children.

To make it, mix one cup of water, two tablespoons of sugar, three tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and

one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid in a jar or bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves. The scent of sugar and vinegar attracts mosquitoes. When they land, the soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to sink and drown.

For best results, place the trap near windows, balcony doors, bedrooms at night, or shaded corners. Avoid putting it near fans or open flames. Within hours, you may see mosquitoes in the bowl - proof it’s working. Replace the mix every two to three days. This chemical-free method offers an effective alternative in summer. It’s simple, affordable, and a natural way to keep indoor mosquitoes under control.

Bright eyes

IF the eyes are the window to the soul, ti red-looking eyes can unintentionally send the wrong message. Late nights, stress, allergies or even dehydration can leave eyes looking dull, puffy or shadowed. Fortunately, a few simple hacks can help revive and re fresh your gaze. Start with hydration, both inside and out. Drinking enough water and using a nourishing eye cream can work wonders in reducing puffiness and dryness. Chilled cucumber slices or cooled tea bags placed over closed eyes for 10 minutes offer a soothing, anti-inflammatory boost.

For instant brightness, try a nude or white eyeliner on the lower waterline and a dab of highlighter on the inner

corners. Curling your lashes and using a lengthening mascara helps open the eyes dramatically. If dark circles are your main concern, opt for a peach-toned concealer to neutralise bluish tones before applying foundation. Don’t underestimate

the power of sleep and reducing screen time. Rested eyes naturally look clearer and more vibrant.

With a few mindful tweaks and clever tricks, your eyes can reflect the energy you feel inside, even on the most sleep-deprived days.

Shutterstock / Serg Zastavkin

Credit: Artsanova from Getty Images

Tourist has total meltdown

A CHINESE tourist had a ‘toddler’ meltdown in Milan Airport after her luggage was deemed too heavy.

A Chinese woman caused a scene at Milan Malpensa Airport on June 8 after staff told her she had to pay extra for her overweight luggage, prompting a full-blown tantrum in front of stunned passengers and staff.

Footage from the airport shows the woman on the floor, screaming, stamping her feet and pounding her fists after being told her hand luggage was too heavy to board without extra fees.

The incident unfolded at the boarding gate, with dozens of bemused travellers watching in disbelief.

According to People and the Mirror , the woman had reached the gate when staff weighed her carry-on and gave her the option to either

pay more or remove some items. Instead, she dropped to the floor in protest, wailing uncontrollably.

Local media reports say airport authorities tried to calm the situation but were unsuccessful and the woman remained uncontrollable.

The woman was removed from the flight and later rebooked once she had calmed down.

The meltdown has since gone viral online, sparking a wave of criti -

cism.

“Has she forgotten that she’s a grown up?” one commenter asked. “This is shameless and disgraceful behaviour,” said another. “I’m speechless. This is so embarrassing,” added a third viewer.

The video has reminded us how some passengers can act under stress, particularly in high-pressure airport environments.

But is this acceptable?

Is the inflexible baggage policy to blame?

Up, up and away

NOWADAYS in The Netherlands, hot air ballooning has become an incredibly popular escape in the aftermath of the pandemic and the fact that more people want to enjoy different experiences whilst they can.

A report by Nederlandse Omroep Stichting (NOS) one of The Netherland’s public broadcasting organisations explained the positive and negative side of hot air balloons which have seen an incredible surge in popularity in the past nine years with annual flights in 2024 recorded at 8,000, compared with 4,500 in 2015.

Not only are there more flights but the average number of passengers in each basket has doubled from four to eight in that same period of time.

All this increase with a background of potential problems for hot air balloon ope-

INTERVIEW

rators caused by modern day innovations such as wind turbines, solar panels, drones (especially training areas) and Natura 2000 protected areas, an EU exercise which sees some two million hectares of land in the Netherlands under special care.

Thanks to all of these potential problems or hazards, parts of North Holland are ‘no flight areas’ and there is a further potential difficulty caused by climate change as according to the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI), higher temperatures, more erratic wind patterns, and heavy showers increase risks and cause more frequent flight cancellations.

There are around 100 commercial balloon companies operating in The Netherlands.

New way of life in Vejer de la Frontera - Speaking European

Like many others seeking a warmer, more connected lifestyle, Scott and Liesl made the leap from Stockholm to southern Spain last year - and they haven’t looked back.

SCOTT first discovered Vejer de la Frontera through a school exchange trip.

“I came with my stu dents and didn’t expect much,” he says. “But the people, the sunshine, and the relaxed way of life flows here stayed with me. It felt like how life should be.”

After two more visits, he was sure this was the place to call home.

Molly Grace

Liesl quickly shared his feeling. “In Sweden, life was orderly but often isolating. We wanted sunshine - not just in the sky but in the warmth of the people and community.”

Drawn by the welcoming spirit and slower pace, they settled here with their child.

Yet, the move brought its challenges.

“Our first six months involved frustrating bureaucracy,” Liesl admits. “It often felt like chasing a moving target, the paperwork is not easy.”

Language has also been a learning curve. “You really need Spanish,” Scott says. “But people here are kind and want you to belong.”

Now, almost settled, they feel the change has been worth it. “We wanted our child to grow up in a place that reflects who we are - energetic, open, maybe a little wild,” Liesl laughs. “Spain fits perfectly.”

Their story echoes that of many families searching for a new rhythm here in Spainone shaped by sunshine, connection, and a more human pace of life.

Credits: Molly Grace

The “toddler” tantrum in full swing.

Hot air balloons taking to the sky.

Amsterdam Pride

AMSTERDAM PRIDE 2025

is due to be held on August 2 and is expected to be a huge success as usual with visitors from all over the world but two sponsors will be missing.

For several years American giants, Amazon and Facebook have been quite open about their support for diversity and Amazon even had their own float in the past, but the arrival of Donald Trump appears to have prompted a brisk about face!

The much respected Dutch newspaper Het Financieele Dagblad (similar to the UK’s Financial Times) investigated this matter and revealed the quiet disappearance of these two mega corporations from the sponsorship list.

They asked both organisations for an explanation of their decision and whilst Facebook parent, Meta, declined to comment a spokesperson for Amazon said: “We’ve decided to focus on other marketing activities.”

It seems to be a fair assumption that given the Trump Administration’s stance against sexual diversity and equality as well as restrictions on LGBT+ rights, including a ban on the rainbow flag in official areas, that American corporations don’t want to be seen to be too supportive of events that the civil servants may frown upon.

The fact that this fear can

stretch across the Atlantic to this European event goes to show how sensitive many American conglomerates are to the current climate in Washington DC. If American based companies are ‘running scared’ this year, it will also be interesting to see whether the Trump Administration looks to influence European owned companies such as airlines and hotel chains who have businesses in the USA.

Amsterdam is to host World Pride in 2026.

Credit: Amsterdam Pride Facebook

PORTUGAL has more than 16 million unused mobile phones sitting in drawers across the

Marauding goats Portugal’s €1.5bn phone stash

volcanic island off Sicily, is under siege by a plague of 800 wild goats that are devastating its landscape, leading officials to plan a controversial cull.

The goats, which escaped captivity 20 years ago, have multiplied rapidly, outnumbering the island’s 120 human residents. With each one weighing up to 120 kg, they have eaten cacti, olive trees, and caper plants, destroyed ancient dry stone walls, and terrorised locals by rampaging through their gardens. Hikers now avoid the island’s steep, narrow paths due to the marauding herds.

Giovanni Dell’Acqua, a Sicilian rural development official, described the goats as “dangerous” and “a threat to Alicudi’s ecosystem.”

“They eat everything, and a cull is the only solution left,” he said. Previous efforts to manage

country, and they’re worth far more than people think.

A report by Fraun -

hofer Austria, commissioned by refurbished electronics company Refurbed, reveals these

forgotten devices contain €1.5 billion worth of metals, including gold, cobalt, copper, and palladium.

With over 1.5 phones per person, Portugal ranks among the highest in Europe for unused smartphones.

the crisis failed: a plan to give the goats away attracted 25 requests, but a company hired to round the goats up, quit the contract after a week, unable to navigate the island’s roadless, rocky terrain.

Two subsequent tenders, offering €200,000 for a two-year removal job, found no takers at all. Local resident Elise Co-

Credit: Di Altaipanther - Wiki CC

llet called the cull ‘cruel’ but admitted the goats’ destruction, suggesting eating them could be part of a natural cycle.

Meanwhile, Dell’Acqua warned that neighbouring islands Stromboli and Vulcano face similar goat overpopulation, urging them to take action to prevent further ecological damage.

At least 5.1 million of these phones could be refurbished and reused, generating an estimated €162 million for the economy.

The rest still hold valuable materials that could help reduce waste, support green jobs, and boost Europe’s circular economy.

Refurbed, which entered the Portuguese market in mid-2024, says demand is growing fast, especially for iPhones, AirPods, smartwatches, and gaming consoles. Still, many buyers confuse refurbished with second-hand. Unlike used devices, refurbished ones are repaired, tested, cleaned and often have a warranty.

Recovering phones also helps the planet. By extending device lifespans, Europe could save 24 million tonnes of CO2 and 8.5 billion cubic metres of water annually.

ALICUDI, a picturesque

Alicudi wild goats are taking over.

Strawberry mug craze

EVERY summer, thousands of visitors flock to Karls Erlebnis-Dorf, or Karls Adventure Village, a destination in northern Germany where strawberries are the star attraction. What started as a small family farm in 1921 has grown into a popular chain of farm villages combining fresh food, fun activities, and plenty of strawberry-themed treats.

Karls began near Rostock when Karl Dahl planted his first strawberry crops. His grandson transformed the family farm into a full-day experience with shops, rides, and farm kitchens serving dishes that often include strawberries in creative ways.

One item, however, has become especially famous: the strawberry mug. These bright red, strawberry-shaped ceramic mugs with green handles have turned into a must-have souvenir. Visitors love them so much that each year, around 63,000 mugs go missing, not all of them bought at the till! Reportedly, Karls sees about 7.5 million visitors annually, and the mugs’ popularity is part of the reason. Rather than getting upset about the missing mugs, Karls decided to have fun with it by printing cheeky warnings under each one.

spotlight when Brad Pitt was seen drinking from one while filming the movie Fury. That small celebrity connection only helped fuel the craze. Beyond the mugs, Karls offers everything from strawberry gin to bratwurst and even strawberry soap.

Urban cycling revolution

CITIES in Europe often debate bike lanes as a choice between aesthetics and the loss of parking or bus stops. However, a global study reframes the issue: adopting Copenhagen-style protected cycling infrastructure could have major health benefits.

Researchers estimate such a shift would add 630 billion kilometres of cycling annually, reduce transport emissions by 6 per cent, and save $435 billion in healthcare costs each year. This reflects a reduction in heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses, showing the health impact of everyday cycling.

The study, published in the respected journal PNAS, models what would happen if cities worldwide matched Copenhagen’s cycling infrastructure. It predicts that increased cycling by everyday commuters and shoppers - not just athletes - would improve health and reduce hospital admissions, medication use, and public healthcare spending.

The mug even had its moment in the

If you ever find yourself with a strawberry mug, there’s a good chance it came from Karls. And whether it was bought or ‘borrowed’ is probably a story for another day.

Copenhagen’s success comes from more than just bike lanes: protected paths, bike-first traffic signals, ‘green waves’ of coordinated lights, and bike superhighways linking suburbs to the city centre. Almost half

of commuters cycle, drawn by safety, speed, and convenience. The result is fewer injuries, cleaner air, and less noise - benefits that ease Denmark’s healthcare burden.

Other cities have followed suit. Utrecht boasts the world’s largest bike garage, estimating $300 million annual health savings, while Sevilla has rapidly expanded protected lanes, increasing cycling rates. Pop-up lanes in Milan, Paris, and Berlin during the pandemic delivered a $2.3 billion boost in environmental and health benefits.

These examples show cycling infrastructure is more than transport - it is a vital public health investment that pays off for decades.

Copenhagen’s bike lanes are saving lives - and money.

Karls’ iconic strawberry mugs.

Image: Facebook/Karls Erlebnis-Dorf

Barcelona of the South

POLAND is proudly showing off its own southern star, and it’s not shy at all with making bold comparisons.

Often called the Barcelona of the South, Krakow is turning heads for all the right reasons. Located in southern Poland and being one of the oldest cities in the country, Krakow is gaining more and more international recognition. And according to Polish media, it’s not just hype. In fact, it’s bigger than Spain’s tourism heavyweight in more ways than one, they say.

Krakow isn’t just another beautiful European city. It has some royal roots, literary legends, and a buzzing atmosphere all year round. It was once the capital of Poland, but its charm is non-debatable even today.

Sure, Krakow may not have the sea, if we are talking comparisons.

But it’s got something Barcelona doesn’t: the largest mediaeval market square in Europe, a cinematic history that includes Schindler’s List, and a Jewish Quarter that rivals the glamour of El Raval.

Add to these ingredients some seriously affordable prices, good food, and you’ve got a destination that more and more travellers are putting on their bucket list.

And here’s a fun fact the Polish press loves to mention: in terms of administrative size, Krakow is actually bigger than Barcelona. So, no palm trees and no sunscreen, but you’ll get castles, cafes, and centuries of history wrapped into one very walkable city.

TikTok for blood donors

DENMARK is short of 33,000 blood donors, and the country is now using TikTok and other digital tools to encourage more young people to step forward. Although 180,000 Danes regularly donate blood, the number is not enough to meet the needs of the healthcare system.

Blood Donors Denmark hopes that connecting with young people online, especially those aged 17 to 25, can boost donation numbers. In 2024, 1,000 fewer young Danes signed up compared to the year before, with only a third of male donors in that age group.

Fear of needles and feeling unwell are among the main reasons young people hold back. However, according to Lisbet Schønau, director of Blood Donors Denmark, most people feel proud

and positive after giving blood.

To change perceptions, the organisation has launched a digital campaign with TikTok videos filmed at Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen. These show the donation process from start to finish and are supported by young influencers and volun -

teers. A new podcast also tells stories from real donors and recipients.

Denmark has a 90year tradition of voluntary, unpaid blood donation.

The focus remains on community and helping others. Anyone aged 17 to 75 can register to give blood or plasma.

Main market square in Krakow.

33,000 blood donors missing in Denmark.

IKEA recalls garlic press

is recalling its black IKEA 365+ VÄRDEFULL garlic press after discovering a risk that small metal pieces may detach during use and end up in food. Customers are advised to stop using the product immediately and return it for a full refund.

The recall applies to garlic presses with date stamps from 2411 to 2522 on the upper handle near the IKEA logo. These codes reflect the production week and year.

Customers can still re-

turn the product even if the date stamp is unclear or missing. No receipt is required.

The problem was found during an internal investigation. A production defect could cause metal fragments to come loose, posing a risk if ingested.

IKEA responded by removing the item from sale and informing the public through a press release on June 11.

Anyone who owns this

garlic press can bring it to any IKEA store. The company also asks the public to spread the word, especially if the product was gifted or resold.

IKEA is known for acting quickly on product safety issues and regrets the inconvenience. For more details, visit www.IKEA.ca/ Pro ductRecalls.

Check your kitchen drawers. If you have this garlic press, it is best to return it now and stay safe.

It’s raining money!

ANÍBAL PINTO, a lawyer and sports commentator, has officially launched his campaign for Porto City Council in dramatic style. At the end of a speech outside Porto City Hall, a drone released dozens of real €5 notes over a crowd of supporters.

The stunt surprised onlookers and quickly made headlines. Pinto described the money drop as a ‘gesture of happiness’ and promised it would be repeated throughout his campaign.

“We’re always going to throw notes,” he said. “We’re always going to make it rain money.”

Pinto is running under the New Right party, led by Ossanda Líber, which promotes economic liberalism and privatisation. Instead of spending money on hotels and formal events, Pinto says his campaign budget will go straight to the people of Porto.

Líber defended the stunt, saying it was no different from promising tax cuts on

a billboard.

Beyond the drone drop, Pinto’s platform includes selling social housing to current tenants at low prices, increasing the tourist tax to €5 per night, giving bonuses to police in problem areas, and creating a toll for non-residents entering Porto. He also wants to make public transport free for locals.

With local elections scheduled for late September, Pinto’s cash-drop campaign is already sparking debate. Whether seen as bold or controversial, it has made Porto and Portugal pay attention.

IKEA

IKEA’s 365+ VÄRDEFULL garlic press.

Drone drops notes on Porto crowd.

Credit: IKEA

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Alternative Facebook

TWO Danish brothers have launched Meningspunktet, a new social media platform designed to put users first, not algorithms or ads. The app promises real conversations, local connections, and total data privacy.

Frustrated by endless scrolling, fake profiles, and global tech giants, Tue and Jakob Oxenvad created Meningspunktet to give Danes a safe and respectful space online. There are no bots or trolls here. All users must log in with MitID, Denmark’s secure digital ID, guaranteeing transparency and trust.

Unlike Facebook or Instagram, this new Danish platform doesn’t track users or sell data. Everything is stored in Denmark and the EU, including the powerful Computerome supercomputer. The content users see

is based on their municipality, encouraging real-life discussions between neighbours, associations, and local businesses.

Meningspunktet is free for citizens, while companies can pay to advertise locally. This hyperlocal model supports community engagement and small business growth. Despite its grassroots approach, the platform is gaining attention as part of a broader Scandinavian push to rethink social media. Norway’s Hudd recently hit 120,000 users in six months.

It’s a bold move, especially without outside investment, but the brothers are committed. “I don’t want to lie on my deathbed thinking I never gave it a shot,” says Tue. As Danes seek digital independence, Meningspunktet could mark the start of something bigger.

Tue Oxenvad, founder of JTOX and Meningspunktet.

Credit: Tue Oxenvad, LinkedIn

Zaragoza: From Caesar to cathedrals and a bit of Goya

IF you’ve ever fancied visiting a city founded by the Romans, defended by poets’ heroines and blessed with not one but two cathedrals, Zaragoza in central Aragon is waiting for you!

Once known as Caesaraugustayes, that Caesar! - Zaragoza began as a ‘Celtiberian’ settlement before the Romans claimed it around the first century BCE. Since then, it’s hosted Visigoths, Moors and a very unwelcome Napoleon. Charlemagne tried to pop by in 778, but a Saxon uprising back home ruined his travel plans.

Heroism is in the city’s bones. During the Peninsular War (1808-09), the citizens held out magnificently against the French. Among them, María Augustín, the ‘Maid of Sara-

gossa’, gained eternal fame - and a shout-out from Lord Byron in his poem ‘Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage’.

Zaragoza boasts the grand Gothic La Seo Cathedral and the majestic Pilar Basilica, built on the spot where the Virgin Mary appeared according to legend in CE 40. You’ll also find Goya’s brushwork there. Don’t miss the Aljafería Palace - an Islamic architectural gem - or the stately Renaissance palaces peppering the city.

Today, Zaragoza blends past and progress. It’s a thriving hub of industry, education and trade fairs, powered by Pyrenean dams and piped-in oil. From medieval towers to modern rail links, Zaragoza remains a city of enduring energy, history and eyebrow-raising stories. So, put on your walking shoes and get exploring!

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

Norwegian artists follow Taylor Swift

AMERICAN pop supers tar Taylor Swift recent ly regained control of her entire music cata logue - an unprece dented move that is now inspiring a growing number of Norwegian artists to do the same.

“It’s important for me to be able to do what I want with my own music. If I own it myself, I have far more freedom,” said Silje Halstensen, known artistically as Bendik, in an interview with Norwegian public broadcaster NRK.

Halstensen, who co-founded the record label and artist management company Big Boy alongside several colleagues, has recently succeeded in reclaiming the rights to her debut album.

She is now looking into the possibility of taking back ownership of more of her earlier work.

“It’s about recouping the effort and money I’ve invested in these releases,” she told NRK.

Swift’s announcement that she had bought back the master recordings of her entire back catalogue came after a long-standing dispute with music executive Scooter Braun.

“All the music I created now belongs to me,” she wrote on her website. Halstensen says this development has resonated strongly within Norway’s music community.

According to several music industry bodies - including Tono, Gramart and Nopa - there is a clear trend: more artists in Norway are seeking to retain ownership of their own work.

Taylor Swift performs at the Jingle Ball at Madison Square Garden.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Emergency service boost

MIJAS Council has approved a budget exceeding €1 million to enhance the municipality’s security and emergency services during its latest plenary session.

The funds will facilitate the purchase of body cameras, breathalysers, speed radars, surveillance drones, public road signalling systems, and upgrades to the police shooting range. Additional investments include maintenance of security systems in municipal buildings and improvements to the police headquarters’ garage ventilation. The budget also covers new uniforms, specialised supplies, enhanced weaponry, ammunition, and ongoing training programmes.

Councillor for Fire Department and Civil Protection, Francisco Jerez, praised the council’s commitment, noting the Fire Brigade will receive new intervention helmets, personal protective equipment, and a €150,000 technical project for a new fire station.

Axarquia Safest beaches plan

TORROX has launched its innovative ‘by land, sea, and air’ beach surveillance campaign, a pioneering effort in Spain, running from June 14 to September 14, daily from 11.30am to 8.30pm. Over 40 professionals, supported by vehicles, boats, drones, and water rescue dogs, ensure safety along Torrox’s coastline. Mayor Óscar Medina unveiled the programme, stressing its trailblazing approach.

The service has been contracted for €502,000 from Provita Sociedad Cooperativa Madrileña, which includes a coordinator, 18 certified aquatic lifeguards, three emergency medical technicians, two jet ski operators, and five healthcare professionals. In July and August, five beach informants join to manage peak crowds.

Torrox is the first Spanish municipality to integrate water rescue dogs, trained by Global K9 Instructor, and weekend drones - one with flotation devices, another for surveillance and loud-speaker announcements. Accessibility is improved too with an amphibious chair, walkers, and crutches.

Mallorca Cancer charity donates

ON Saturday June 14, representatives of the Cala Nova Cancer Charity were delighted to host a small cocktail party.

They invited all of the presidents of the Cancer Charities they support as well as representatives of the British Consul and volunteers and helpers from the shop to celebrate a donation of €46,000.

The money had been raised from sales at the shop that the Cala Nova Cancer Charity operates as well as from a series of fundraising events held over a period of months.

Ricardo Moreno the President of the AECC in Palma received a cheque for €20,000 as did Jaime Coll the President of the Children’s Cancer organisation Aspanob.

Further cheques were presented to Bronwyn President of Cancer Support (a support system for foreign residents suffering from cancer) and Marie from Dime Palliative Care with both charities receiving €3,000 each.

Costa Blanca North From Alfas to the Everest

WHEN Akkal Bahadur Bohora left Nepal for Spain nearly two decades ago, he had no idea that one day he would carry the name of his adopted home to the top of the world.

But on Sunday May 19, at precisely 6.30am, he stood on the summit of Mount Everest - 8,848.86 metres above sea level - with a Spanish flag bearing the names l’Alfàs del Pi and l’Albir fluttering in his hand.

This was no ordinary expedition. It was the culmination of a dream forged through hardship, perseverance and deep personal transformation. For 10 years, Bohora had quietly prepared to scale the planet’s highest peak. On Friday 13 June, l’Alfàs del Pi honoured this extraordinary journey.

“I arrived in Spain with nothing,” Bohora told the mayor. “But this town gave me everything.” Through years of effort, he built a stable life and opened his own restaurant — yet never lost touch with his native Nepal.

Almeria

Cuevas summer sparkles

CUEVAS DEL ALMANZORA has officially launched Smart Verano 2025, a jam-packed summer agenda featuring over 80 cultural and leisure activities, promising an unforgettable few months for locals, families, tourists, and adventure-seekers alike.

Presented by Mayor Antonio Fernández and First Deputy Mayor Míriam Quintana, the announcement took place by the stunning Cala Invencible, framed by breathtaking sea views. The programme includes concerts under the stars, beachside cinema, family workshops, astronomy nights, guided routes, and much more to engage all generations.

“This is about living our town to the fullest,” said Fernández. “Our coastline is magical, but every village and pedanía will also shine with events that bring people together.”

Smart Verano 2025 also offers practical information on sports facilities, local trails, cultural resources, and unique recreational spots. Among the highlights: aquagym sessions on the beach and in the municipal pool, plus scenic hikes.

Costa Calida

Historic air show

HUNDREDS of thousands of people lined the beaches of the Mar Menor on Sunday, June 15, to watch the 2025 San Javier Air Show, a big event marking the 40th anniversary of Spain’s famous Patrulla Águila. People came from all over Europe to see what many called the most impressive air show Spain has ever hosted.

Crowds filled bars, restaurants, balconies, and every available spot along the beach. Speaker towers were set up along the coast from San Pedro del Pinatar to Los Alcázares, blasting music, updates from the organisers, and even live messages from the pilots. The atmosphere was incredible, and all eyes were on the sky!

King Felipe VI attended the show from the military officers’ club in San Javier. The event featured more than 30 aircraft from six countries. It started with a skydive display by Spain’s Parachute Acrobatics Team, followed by a dramatic demonstration from a firefighting plane.

PETS

Cats stay safe at home with the cat-sitter

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Sandra Barton, cat owner

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DGT plans to ban cars circulating with just one person

SPANISH traffic authorities and public officials are considering a plan to emulate France’s law, which compels people to share cars for work or other purposes, in an effort to reduce traffic congestion and pollution drastically.

The neighbouring country already has specific lanes in place for vehicles carrying two or more persons, particularly during peak hours. And the new rules contemplate fines for those caught using those special lanes.

In Paris, the capital of France, starting in May 2025, drivers began being banned from driving alone in certain areas. To encourage car sharing and reduce pollution levels, a lane on the entire ring road has been reserved for cars with more

than one occupant, 20 Minutos reported.

In Spain, as has been the case in most European countries, efforts have been made to introduce this lifestyle for years in an attempt to reduce pollution levels. To this end, they have implemented a range of measures, including Low Emission Zones and road taxes, among others.

In fact, late last year,

Spain’s traffic chief, Pere Navarro, delivered a wake-up call that cuts to the bone of modern driving habits. Speaking at Madrid’s Global Mobility Call, he said bluntly that “the future of cars will be shared or will not be.”

The sentiment isn’t fluff. Navarro points to a startling statistic: 85 per cent of cars hitting city roads during rush hour are carrying just one person.

Paying fines at a cashpoint

NO ONE enjoys finding a traffic fine in the post. One moment you’re sifting through flyers and bills, the next there’s a letter from the DGT - Spain’s traffic authority - telling you you’ve been caught doing something wrong on the road.

Don’t panic, and don’t ignore it. In Spain, paying a fine at a cashpoint (ATM) is easier than you might expect - and if you act quickly, you can get a 50 per cent discount.

Most traffic fines can be paid at a CaixaBank ATM, the main bank working with the DGT. Look for the blue and white logo. If you’re unsure, ask a local or use CaixaBank’s branch locator.

Bring the letter with the fine. You’ll need the expediente (file number), the amount due, and your debit or credit card. At the ATM, insert your card, enter your PIN, and select ‘Pagos’ or ‘Multas’. You can scan the barcode or enter the expediente number manually. Confirm the amount, pay, and don’t forget the receipt - it’s your proof of payment.

Fines paid within 20 days qualify for an automatic 50 per cent discount. If you miss the deadline, you’ll pay the full amount.

A Guardia Civil Tráfico officer checks a driver during a roadside stop in Spain - a common scene for motorists who may later need to pay a traffic fine.

Anyone can pay the fine for you with the correct details. And if there’s no CaixaBank nearby, you can also pay online, at Correos, or certain other banks.

Always keep the receipt.

Flip flop fines

SPAIN warns drivers: flipflops could lead to fines. While it’s not explicitly illegal to drive in flip-flops, Spanish police caution it can be risky and may result in penalties. The Spanish traffic code does not mention flip-flops by name. However, Articles 3.1, 17.1, and 18.1 of the Reglamento General de Circulación require drivers to maintain full control of their vehicle, with freedom of movement and proper posture for safe driving. If an officer believes your footwear compromises control - such as flip-flops slipping off pedals or getting stuck - you could face a fine of up to €100. No licence points are lost, but the fine still sticks.

The Guardia Civil recently addressed this on social media, confirming you can drive in flip-flops unless they interfere with your driving or risk causing an accident. Spain’s traffic authority (DGT) and the Guardia Civil advise choosing secure, well-gripped shoes like trainers or closed sandals instead.

DGT is mulling emulating France’s rule of at least two persons per vehicle during peak hours

Credit : Juan Carlos L. Ruiz, Shutterstock

Credits: Shutterstock - 240

Renault 4 E-Tech electric - reinvention of original

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

THE Renault 4 E-Tech electric, a modern reinvention of the iconic original, will be priced from £26,995 OTR when order books open here in the UK in July.

Available in three trim levels from launch - evolution, techno (£28,995), and iconic (£30,995), with the option of the electric ‘plein sud™’ canvas roof on the latter two, from a later date - Renault say the 4 E-Tech electric continues the original Renault 4’s sense of go-anywhere practicality, with increased ground clearance and suspension optimised for a smoother, more comfortable ride.

In the first of many nods to the original Renault 4’s design, the front grille is made from a single 1.45m-long piece and illuminated with a continuous surround (available from techno trim). Likewise, the original’s iconic three-part rear lights are given a new lease of life.

Other retro-inspired touches include the bonnet lines that continue to the bottom of the grille, the rear quarter window, the three lines sculpted into the doors that bring to mind the plastic protectors of the original, and the distinctive forms in the roof, now adorned with roof bars.

The boot space of 420 litres reveals various little touches such as the four lashing hooks, two bag hooks, rubber bands to hold objects in place, and storage compartments including a 55-litre underfloor area perfect for the charging cable. With the rear seat folded down boot space is extended to 1,405 litres.

Play store. On these models, the central screen is joined by a 10-inch digital driver information display.

Evoking the original, the ‘plein sud™’ electric opening canvas roof opens at the touch of a button or by voice control. Six body colours are available from launch, including an exclusive new shade - Hautsde-France Green - that pays tribute to the Île-de-France Blue of the 1960s.

The 52 kWh battery powers a 110 kW (150 hp, 245 Nm) electric motor that accelerates the Renault 4 E-Tech electric from 0 to 100kph/62mph in 8.2 seconds, with a driving range of up to 247 miles. The new One Pedal function (available from techno) optimises regenerative braking, decelerating smoothly when the driver releases the accelerator pedal and coming to a stop without the driver having to apply the brake.

Standard across the range is wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® connectivity, accessed via a 10.1-inch central

vices built-in, including Google Maps with charging-optimised route planning and a variety of apps from the Google

Already the recipient of the ‘Electric Car of the Year’ award in the TopGear. com Electric Car Awards 2025, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric further expands Renault’s already burgeoning EV line-up.

Leinster dominate

IN a rain-drenched Dublin, Leinster secured their first United Rugby Championship title in four years, overwhelming the Bulls with 19 points in the opening 23 minutes at Aviva Stadium.

More than 46,000 fans, roused by a Beach Boys tribute to Brian Wilson, witnessed Leinster’s dominance.

Leinster’s victory came from a fierce collective effort, particularly in the back row, where Jack Conan and Josh van der Flier scored two first-half tries. Ryan Baird’s 80-minute consistency and the forwards, led by Thomas Clarkson and Andrew Porter, dismantled the Bulls’ scrum. Leinster’s aggression in collisions and line speed stifled the Bulls’ predictable attacks, with fly-half Sam Prendergast tackling hard and rallying his team.

A key moment came

early when Johan Goosen fumbled a grubber from Jordie Barrett, leading to a scrum penalty. Conan’s try followed, sparked by Dan Sheehan’s break and Tommy O’Brien’s clean-out. Prendergast’s tough-angle conversion and tackle on Marco van Staden underlined Leinster’s intent. Barrett’s chip and perfectly timed kick made it 14-0 after 14 minutes. The Bulls’ errors, which led to Harold Vorster’s penalty, Grob belaar’s

neout, and David Kriel’s wayward offload, were forced by Leinster’s pressure. Van der Flier’s try from a maul sealed the first half.

Prendergast’s 50:22 kick and a penalty pushed the lead to 22-0, despite a sloppy phase. Leinster’s early dominance, scrum power, and relentless intensity ensured a deserved triumph, marking a significant milestone.

Ballon d’Or finalists

LIONEL MESSI and Cristiano Ronaldo dominated world football for over a decade, a reign that now seems nearly impossible to replicate. As the 2024-25 season draws to a close, no clear Ballon d’Or favourite has emerged, with the new Club World Cup set to play a decisive role.

Gerard Piqué recently backed Ousmane Dembélé for the award, expressing admiration for his former Barcelona teammate, whom he described as a brother. However, Piqué’s pick is Lamine Yamal, praising the 17-year-old for his extraordinary talent and drawing comparisons with Pelé after Yamal’s three Euro 2024 appearances matched the Brazilian legend’s record.

The award remains wide open, with

Hamilton looking

LEWIS HAMILTON, the seven-time Formula 1 champion, has dismissed the idea that he urgently needs a strong result at the Canadian Grand Prix, despite a challenging start at Ferrari. Starting fifth at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, where he shares a record seven wins with Michael Schumacher, Hamilton remains confident in his integration with the Maranello team, countering external views of problems.

Hamilton’s switch from Mercedes to Ferrari last season raised high expectations, but results have been modest. He secured a sprint win in China and a third-place finish in Miami’s sprint race, yet consistently has missed out on podiums. Sitting sixth in the drivers’ standings with 71 points, he trails teammate Charles Leclerc by 23 points, who has ear ned three podiums in the last five races.

He says his team is still loo king for that ‘sweet spot’ in the motor.

three frontrunners: Yamal, Dembélé, and Kylian Mbappé.

Yamal led Barcelona to a domestic treble and a Champions League semi-final, registering 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 matches. His absence from the Club World Cup, however, could hinder his chances.

Dembélé, revitalised under Luis Enrique at PSG, has scored 33 goals and provided 15 assists in 49 games, guiding the club to its first European Cup. Mbappé, though less dominant this season, scored 43 goals in 56 matches for Real Madrid. He lifted the European Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup and could still become the first world champion in the Club World Cup’s new format.

for ‘sweet spot’

Speaking at a press conference, Hamilton rejected the need for a defining result in Canada. “It looks a lot worse outside than it is on the inside,” he said, emphasising efforts to refine the SF25 car’s setup. He noted constructive discussions with engineers to find its ‘sweet spot’, adapting his 18 years of experience to Ferrari’s methods. Despite challenges, Hamilton is optimistic for a strong Montreal weekend, where he has historically excelled, indicating thatgress may soon bring results on the

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominated the Ballon d’Or for over a decade.

Lewis Hamilton wearing the Ferrari shield.

Credit: Jay HiranoShutterstock.

Credit:

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