D.L. MU 74-2025 - ISSN 3045-6703
Costa Cálida I No. 2145 I 13 - 19 August 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Los Alcazares hosts massive human chain to protect Mar Menor
IN a symbolic gesture of solidarity, appreciation for nature, and neighbourly camaraderie, thousands of residents and visitors gathered at the beaches of Los Alcazares to form a massive human chain in order to call for a “living Mar Menor.” This peaceful protest, which has now been ongoing for six consecutive summers, took place primarily at the Los Espejos beach, with hundreds of residents expressing their commitment to protecting this unique ecosystem, the largest saltwater lagoon in Europe. Banners displaying slogans, as well as the seahorse, which has long represented the Mar Menor, could be seen all along the human chain. The gesture represented a collective commitment to the protection, conservation, and restoration of a lagoon that has come not only to represent the Costa Calida, but the Region of Murcia it-
Photo Credit: Los Alcazares Town Hall
Thousands form a human chain supporting Mar Menor lagoon protection.
self. Over the years, the protests bloomed from small local gatherings to become a global movement, supported by more than 140 international organisations. Especially now, the outpouring of support is significant. The lagoon has been in a precarious position due to a number of environmental factors, including in-
tensive agriculture and agricultural runoff, urban development, pollution, and extreme weather events. Today, thanks to continued efforts by the community, conservationists, and officials, the lagoon is in better health, but neighbours are still gathering to see it preserved for generations to come.
Rockrose recovery
San Javier to host major charity golfing tournament
PUTTING for a good cause: At the end of August, Roda Golf will host the 9th edition of the Isabel Gemio Foundation Golf Tournament – Villa de San Javier, an event that will once more merge sport and solidarity to raise funds to support research into rare diseases. The return of the tournament was announced in San Javier, with 125 players already registered to participate. Competition organisers expect it to reach 200 participants. The competition, which will take place on Friday, August 28, and Saturday, August 29, will be played in Individual Stableford format, with three men’s categories, one women’s category, and a Scratch prize. Prizes will be awarded to the top two finishers in each category, refreshments will be provided along the course, and a prize draw will take place at the end of the tournament, marking an exciting weekend for sports fans and golfing enthusiasts on the Costa Calida. There will also be a shotgun start on Friday at 2.30pm. Aside from the thrill of taking to the green, at the heart of the competition is its charitable aspect. The funds raised from the sporting event will go towards research into Duchenne muscular dystrophy, as well as other rare diseases that affect residents in the Region of Murcia. Golfing fans and kind-hearted residents who want to make a difference in the region are encouraged to participate in a fun weekend of golf and solidarity in San Javier. Photo Credit: Roda Golf
Lagoon love
Generosity & golfing
THE rockrose of Cartagena, an extremely rare and highly threatened Mediterranean shrub, is emerging from a critical situation thanks to the continued efforts of the Region of Murcia to restore it. With more than 800 specimens and new plantings in Atamaria, the recovery programme for this incredible plant is well underway, combining conservation, scientific research, and environmental science. The Cartagena rockrose, or Cistus heterophyllus subsp. carthaginensis, is
Photo Credit: Royal Botanical Gardens
Rare plant native to Murcia saved from extinction
Murcia’s conservation efforts saved the Cartagena rockrose from extinction.
a subspecies endemic to southeastern Spain. It was discovered more than 100 years ago in the Cartagena-La Union mining district, where it was once abundant.
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However, mining activity and changes in the way the land was used caused the population to sharply decline during the 20th century. The decline was so drama-
tic, the plant was considered extinct for decades. Most recently, the Region of Murcia has planted more than 200 new specimens of this endangered species, reinforcing the recovery programme. This particular project was carried out by the General Directorate of Natural Heritage and Climate Action, developed in collaboration with the Polytechnic University of Cartagena. Now, thanks to these efforts, the population exceeds 800 plants, all distributed across different areas in Spain.
Roda Golf hosts a charity tournament funding rare disease research.
LOCAL NEWS
13 - 19 August 2026
Photo Credit: Cartagena City Hall
Perin celebrated its patron saint festival by hoisting a donkey.
THE Cartagena neighbourhood of Perin reached the joyful peak of its annual patron saint festivities over the weekend, celebrating the incredible 26th edition of its most beloved local tradition: the ascent of Lucero the donkey to the church bell tower. Hundreds of enthusiastic residents and visitors gathered in the town square to witness the quirky spectacle, filling the air with cheers,
Burro bash
applause, and a powerful community spirit. The day’s festivities kicked off with a vibrant afternoon parade, featuring creatively decorated floats with themes ranging from Jurassic Park and Peri Bros to ancient Egypt. Music filled the streets thanks to the lively performances of the Cartagena 1990 Musical
Group, who got the crowd dancing to the traditional local pasodoble, a fast-paced Spanish music and dance genre, 'This is my town'. The highlight of the event finally arrived when a local resident hoisted the large papier-mache figure of Lucero the donkey up the side of the church tower, successfully reviving the historic local legend to the delight of onlookers below. The donkey's journey to the top of the bell tower served as an emotional and triumphant symbol of Perin’s enduring folklore, and a gathering point for many friends, families, and visitors to the charming area.
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Seafront speed GOOD news for sports fans living in or near Mazarron: once more, the prestigious Copa del Rey de Motos Acuáticas, or Jet Ski King’s Cup, will return to the coastal waters of Puerto de Mazarron, making for an exciting event that will attract hundreds to several thousand spectators and light up the Costa Calida with fast-paced action. As the premier personal watercraft competition of Spain, the event will unite the country’s most skilled riders for a weekend of sharp manoeuvers, heart-pounding spectacle, and sheer speed. The event will make for the ultimate local day out along the idyllic Puerto de Mazarron coastline, taking place along the Paseo de El Puerto and the Puerto
Deportivo marina, transforming the seafront promenade into a thrilling openair arena. Additionally, spectators can enjoy one of the many seaside bars, cafes, and restaurants as they watch competitors slice through the waves only metres from the shore. The Copa del Rey de Motos Acuáticas is one of the coastal area’s most vibrant social gatherings, uniting international residents, locals, and visitors from across the Region of Murcia and beyond in a bustling atmosphere under the sun. This year’s edition of the Copa del Rey de Motos Acuáticas, set to take place this October, is yet another reason sports fans in Murcia get more than their fill of sporting thrills on the yearly calendar. Photo Credit: Mazarron Town Hall
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Spain's top jet ski championship returns to Puerto de Mazarron.
NEWS
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13 - 19 August 2026
Inheritance tax change
Calendar clash Bank holiday day claims
The impact will depend on individual circumstances.
ries receive. Moving permanently to Spain does not automatically remove someone from UK inheritance tax rules. The UK considers factors including long-term tax residency, meaning some British expatriates may still have financial links to Britain despite living abroad for years. Chris Ball, CEO and an expatriate financial planning specialist, warned that British residents in Spain should review their situation before the new rules take effect. The impact will depend on indivi-
dual circumstances, including how long someone lived in the UK, when they moved abroad, the size of their pension and other assets they hold. Some pension holders may consider withdrawing funds or gifting money before 2027, but experts warn against making decisions without professional advice due to the complex tax rules between Spain and the UK. For many expatriate families, the issue is not retirement income, but what happens to decades of savings left behind.
Credit: daily_creativity/shutterstock
Photo credit: Iryna Dzvonkovska/Shutterstock
SHIFTING RULES ACROSS BORDERS
THOUSANDS of British nationals living in Spain could face unexpected inheritance tax consequences after a major UK pension rule change comes into force in 2027. From April 6 next year, certain UKheld pensions will be brought into the inheritance tax system, meaning savings that many retirees believed could pass to loved ones outside the tax rules may be assessed differently after their death. The change does not affect the value of pensions during a person’s lifetime, but it could alter how much beneficia-
Check specific workplace agreements.
WORKERS in Spain could have a stronger claim to an extra day off when Assumption Day falls on a Saturday this year. Observed on Saturday, August 15, Assumption Day is a national public holiday across Spain. Because many employees already have Saturdays off, questions have been raised about whether they should lose the benefit of the holiday when it coincides with their normal weekly rest day. Fresh attention has followed a recent National Court ruling linked to a dispute in the customer service sector. Judges found that a public holiday should not automatically be absorbed into a worker’s regular rest period. Under that interpretation, some employees may be entitled to a compensatory day off instead. Workers whose schedules already include Saturdays as a non-working day are among those most likely to be affected. Although the case relates to a specific sector, employment specialists believe its reasoning could influence disputes in other industries where collective agreements contain similar provisions. Any entitlement will depend on the terms of individual agreements and workplace arrangements, meaning an additional day off is not guaranteed for everyone. Guidance reported by El País suggests that replacement leave should generally be taken within 14 calendar days of the holiday, although exceptions may apply in cases such as illness or authorised absence. Credit: Dragon Images - Shutterstock
Community access BORDERS, BRICKS, AND BOUNDARIES PROPERTY owners in Spain face severe financial and legal penalties if they refuse access to maintenance workers conducting repairs on shared infrastructure. Under Article 9.1 of Spain’s Horizontal Property Law, known as Ley de Propiedad Horizontal, property owners must permit entry to their homes or gardens for essential work on communal services. This obligation applies to flats, detached houses, and urbanisations where shared utilities, such as water pipes or drainage networks, cross private land. Recent court decisions demonstrate that judges have little patience for uncooperative residents. In Orihuela we recently heard from a Euro Weekly reader about an owner who refused entry to a plumber after bougainvillaea roots damaged
shared pipes beneath his garden, causing a neighbour’s water bills to balloon. Courts eventually forced access, leaving the stubborn owner liable for legal costs, compensation, and his own garden repairs. In another case, an elderly resident attempted to block workers from lifting a shower tray to fix a communal leak. The court ruled that lacking minor details does not grant the right to delay critical repairs. While owners can request details regarding work schedules and disruption, they cannot legally block access once necessity is proven. Refusing entry does not protect the home. Instead, it converts routine maintenance into a costly legal dispute. Early cooperation remains the best way to avoid heavy court fees and property damage.
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What if the leak is from your house in Spain?
euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.
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13 - 19 August 2026
LOCAL NEWS
DURING a weekend in mid-August, Cabo de Palos will transform into a vibrant hub of music, active sports, and family-friendly activities with the return of its annual Cabo de Pop festival, an event that will unite locals and visitors in the shining area of the Costa Calida to celebrate the natural beauty, marine richness, and cultural heritage of one of Murcia’s most iconic towns. Cabo de Pop, to be held on Friday, August 14, and Saturday, August 15, is an all-inclusive event that will span three main areas on the coast: the Lighthouse Esplanade, the Marina, and the
Photo Credit: Cabo de Pop
Seaside soundtracks
Cabo de Pop combines music, water sports, and local gastronomy.
surrounding beaches. The festival will merge daytime nautical adventures with vibrant cultural performances at sunset, for an all-day experience guests can enjoy. Water-based activities form a major part of the fesDep. MU 74-2025 - ISSN 3045-6703
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tival experience. During the day, attendees will be able to take a dip in the cool Mediterranean on the idyllic beaches of the town. Attendees will be able to reserve guided sessions across several water-related activities, including scuba diving and snorkelling. Others can choose to join guided coastal routes by paddle surf or kayak to take in scenic views of the dramatic rocky headland. During the evening, the festival will transition into a vibrant, lively evening celebration centred around Cabo de Palos’ landmark lighthouse.
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Charity coach trip Photo Credit: Andrea’s Animal Rescue / Facebook
ANIMAL lovers and day-trippers alike have the chance to participate in a popular fundraising event beginning next month. Andrea’s Animal Rescue, an animal welfare charity based in the Mazarron area, has announced a charity excursion to the coastal hub of Benidorm, to take place on Sunday, September 6. Tickets will be sold for just €22 per person, with the organisers taking care of all the travel loCharity coach trip to Benidorm raises funds for gistics so passengers can rescued donkeys. simply let go and enjoy a day in Benidorm. Charity organisers will pick up attendees at the wide variety of shops, bars, and res8.00am at the Puerto de Mazarron bus taurants catering to every taste. station, with another 8.30am pick-up Not only this, every ticket purchased scheduled at the Camposol Sector B car plays a direct role in supporting the vipark. tal work carried out by Andrea’s Animal Whether shopping, sightseeing, or Rescue. simply unwinding by the famed BeniWith only a limited number of seats dorm beaches, the itinerary is comple- available, those who are interested in tely open. Visitors can stroll along the the event are recommended to book golden sands of Levante Beach, wander early. To reserve a place, interested trathrough the charming narrow streets of vellers can contact Andrea at T. 690 906 the historic centre, or take advantage of 565 or Mandy at T. 604 129 024.
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LOCAL NEWS
13 - 19 August 2026
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Helping hands Watersport hub Photo Credit: @bomberosporbomberos / Instagram
Photo Credit: Los Alcazares Town Hall
Upgraded nautical beach offers year-round sports amenities for local residents. Spanish firefighters supply clean drinking water to earthquake survivors abroad.
A NONPROFIT organisation based in Murcia, Bomberos por Bomberos (Firefighters for Firefighters), has launched a critical humanitarian operation in Venezuela, delivering safe drinking water to populations severely impacted by the devastating recent earthquakes. As the organisation’s first international mission, the dedicated team has successfully completed complex technical installations to link a water well to a specialised purification unit located at the Caribe fire station in the Venezuelan city of La Guaira. This water treatment plant, a compact, high-capacity unit funded by the Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM), can process up to 3,000 litres of clean drinking water every hour. The team constructed PVC
pipelines to carry unpurified water from the well directly into the filtration system and out to an accessible distribution hub. Bomberos por Bomberos is also coordinating tanker trucks equipped with large holding tanks to transport clean water directly into camps and remote settlements, where vulnerable local people are currently taking shelter. Working tirelessly to provide water for displaced people, the Murcian firefighters are playing an essential role in stabilising public health and supporting vulnerable families through this devastating crisis. It is just one of the ways Murcian emergency responders and nonprofit organisations are working to spread humanitarian aid in light of the earthquake disaster in Venezuela.
LIVING by the famed waters of the Mar Menor is about to get even better for local residents. Los Alcazares has officially unveiled the newly upgraded Las Salinas Nautical Beach, turning a familiar stretch of coastline into an active, high-tech hub designed for seasoned water sports enthusiasts, everyday residents looking to embrace a healthier coastal lifestyle, or visitors looking to appreciate the most beautiful parts of Los Alcazares. Whether you are a passionate windsurfer, an avid paddleboarder, a kiteboarding savant, or simply an onlooker who loves watching colourful sails glide across the bay, the upgraded beach makes spending time on the water remarkably easier and far more enjoyable. The upgraded venue offers practical, user-friendly amenities, including dedicated
equipment setup and drying zones, racks to store boards and sails securely, comfortable shaded seating areas for taking a break from the sun, newly-installed modern street furniture, and a real-time weather station. Additionally, the beach introduces a fun new landmark for casual evening strolls along the coast: the Walk of Nautical Stars. This seaside promenade showcases commemorative plaques honouring hometown athletes who have represented the municipality on both national and international stages. Walking along the promenade, families and young aspiring sports lovers can discover these stars, drawing inspiration from neighbourhood heroes who turned their passion for the Mar Menor into incredible global success.
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LOCAL NEWS
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Barrierless bathing Taking its toll THE Region of Murcia has taken a major step forward in its commitment to inclusive tourism, expanding its network of accessible beaches across the Costa Calida this summer. A total of 17 beaches will now offer a free assisted bathing service, marking an increase of six beaches compared to the previous year. This initiative, led by the regional government, aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities or reduced mobility can enjoy the coastline with dignity, comfort, and equal opportunity. Cartagena stands out as a main focal point of this effort, with four of its famed beaches, including Levante in Cabo de Palos, Playa Honda, Puerto Bello, and San Gines achieving the prestigious ‘accessible point’ status. This classification represents the
Photo Credit: FAMDIF
Murcia expands accessible beaches with free assisted bathing services nationwide.
highest level of accessibility available, guaranteeing fully adapted itineraries, specialised facilities, and direct assistance for disabled visitors or those with reduced mobility. Additionally, three locations in Aguilas, San Pedro del Pinatar, and Mazarron now feature fully adapted, in-water bathing zones. These specialised zones inclu-
de submerged seating, access platforms, sturdy handrails, and water-based shaded areas that empower users to swim with confidence and independence. As the Costa Calida’s beaches gain more and more popularity, beachgoers are flocking to the coast during the hottest month of the year to cool off in the chilly Mediterranean.
DRIVERS using Spain’s Photo credit: Ministerio del interior AP-7 may never realise that a simple toll payment has allegedly been at the centre of a fraud investigation. Guardia Civil officers have arrested a toll booth employee accused of diverting more than €1,200 from the motorway operator by manipulating tickets while motorists continued paying the correct Officers arrested the employee while he was fares. working. The investigation, Operation Enlazado, began after the company operating the amount, there was little reason for them AP-7 between Cartagena and Vera dis- to suspect anything was wrong. covered unexplained discrepancies in Officers arrested the employee while its cash collections. Investigators then he was working and reportedly found focused on a toll booth where they be- two tickets, including one belonging to lieve the alleged scheme repeatedly took the customer being served and another place. for a cheaper journey. The suspect is beAccording to the Guardia Civil, the ing investigated for alleged continuous employee targeted cash payments. Dri- fraud, while authorities examine toll revers paid the correct amount for their cords and other evidence. The final finjourney, but the employee allegedly re- dings could determine whether further gistered a cheaper ticket from a previous action is taken next. Authorities will vehicle in the electronic system and kept now examine the records and evidenthe difference. Because customers recei- ce to establish exactly how the alleged ved valid receipts and had paid the right fraud operated.
Paws-some passengers THE regional government of Murcia is preparing new regulations that will permit dogs and cats on public buses, representing a practical development for animal owners across the region. The proposed decree aims to create a framework
for pet transport, making travelling with animals easier. Murcia’s love affair with pets is no secret. Currently, the Region of Murcia has more than 413,000 registered pets, representing approximately one pet for every four residents. The
measure, therefore, is a response to the increasing demand for more pet-friendly public services. This new regulation would allow residents and visitors to use public transport with their pets for routine journeys, including veterinary visits, errands, and leisure travel, without needing to rely on private vehicles or hired transport. Murcia is one of many areas that are aligning with broader trends in Europe, aiming to integrate pet-friendly public transport. This new measure comes as good news for residents in Murcia who cannot live without their furry friends, those who need to carry out their routine veterinary visits, or simply want to travel somewhere with their pets that they otherwise could not get to on foot. With leads ready and tails wagging, Murcia’s public transport network is gearing up to be friendlier, fluffier, and more inclusive than ever before.
LOCAL NEWS
Animal trafficking
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Photo credit: Vaxo/Shutterstock
Phantom residency appointments
Police have detected increased animal trafficking.
SPAIN’S stretched animal shelters are facing a threat as police warn that puppies are being trafficked into the country for profit, with some allegedly arriving without health controls. The trade can leave buyers with sick animals and adds pressure to a welfare system already receiving hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats each year. Police have detected increased animal trafficking along the AP-7, with puppies reportedly brought from Eastern Europe and sold in Spain for higher prices. Breeds identified include chihuahuas, dachshunds, labradors and golden retrievers. The financial incentive is clear. A dog bought for around €100 can reportedly be sold for as much as €2,000. But authorities warn that bypassing veterinary safeguards can
13 - 19 August 2026
create health risks. A puppy may appear healthy when sold but develop illness after reaching its home, leaving families facing distress and bills. Legal animal transport is possible when safeguards are followed; the concern is when controls are avoided. The warning comes as Fundación Affinity recorded 285,720 dogs and cats entering Spanish shelters during 2025, including 169,268 dogs. The figure includes lost and abandoned animals, highlighting pressure on Spain’s protection network. Authorities say buyers should check documentation, identification and veterinary history. A cheap puppy may seem like a bargain, but its cost can fall on the animal, the family and an already overloaded nationwide shelter system.
PEOPLE trying to renew their residency in Spain thought they had found help online, but instead some paid €67.50 for an appointment that didn’t exist, then transferred the same amount again when told that their first payment had gone astray. The National Police have arrested a man in Barcelona accused of advertising a supposed administrative agency on social media. Conversations then moved to WhatsApp, where applicants allegedly received documents appearing to confirm their residency appointments and bank details for payment. The bookings were eventually discovered to be completely invalid. Police say some victims were also persuaded to pay twice because of invented banking problems. When they demanded their money
Credit: simona pilolla 2 / shutterstock
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The alleged scheme moved from social media to WhatsApp before any money was transferred.
back, they allegedly received false transfer receipts suggesting that a refund was being processed, in order to delay any complaints. The suspect is accused of fraud and document forgery, and was already wanted under several court orders from around Spain. Police have not said how many people were affected or revealed the total
amount taken. Official immigration appointment slots are free, although a legitimate lawyer or gestor can still charge for their services. Anyone recognising the payment pattern should contact their bank, preserve every message and receipt, and report the incident to police. Spain’s free 017 cybersecurity helpline can also provide advice.
13 - 19 August 2026
SPANISH NEWS
Caught red handed Photo credit: neme_jimenez/shutterstock
Ruined holidays MORE than 400 customers are seeking answers after claiming a travel agency in L’Escala, Girona, failed to provide holidays they had paid for, leaving some families thousands of euros out of pocket. Some customers say they paid more than €9,000 for trips that included flights, hotels and Disneyland Paris visits. The problem often became apparent only when departure dates approached. Families had already paid the agency in full but were still waiting for tickets and other travel documents. One customer who contacted her airline directly was reportedly told she was not the airline’s customer because the booking had been made through the travel agency. For parents, the financial uncertainty has been accompanied by a particularly painful emotional
Some customers say they paid more than €9,000.
impact. Some holidays had been planned as Christmas or Three Kings presents, leaving children expecting their long-awaited Disneyland trip while their parents scrambled to discover whether the reservations existed. Customers have connected through social media to compare experiences, establish how many bookings may be affected and work out how much
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money was paid. Individual losses reportedly range from thousands of euros to more than €9,000, while the total financial value of the disputed bookings has not yet been established. Customers continue seeking answers. The affected families now face the difficult task of recovering their savings while awaiting the outcome of the investigation.
A 27-YEAR-OLD French national has been arrested in Salamanca after a witness allegedly spotted him attempting to start a fire while firefighters were already tackling several outbreaks nearby. Guardia Civil officers detained the man near La Samasa, in Ledesma, where more than a dozen firefighting resources had been deployed. According to the reThe man had five lighters and gasoline. ported account, the witness saw the man crouching beside the SA-305 and apparently portedly gave evidence with the astrying to ignite another fire. Officers sistance of a translator. His detention attended the location and arrested him does not amount to a conviction, and while the firefighting operation was investigators must establish whether still under way. Authorities reportedly there is sufficient evidence connecting found him carrying petrol and five ligh- him to any deliberate ignition. ters. Authorities are examining the witThe blaze near the road was brou- ness statement, materials recovered by ght under control at around 8pm, but officers and evidence from the affecinvestigators are now examining whe- ted areas. Evidence will determine ther the suspect was responsible for whether prosecutors can connect the that fire or any of the other outbreaks suspect to nearby fires. Investigators reported in the surrounding area. The must establish whether the evidence man appeared before a judge and was connects the detained man to one fire placed in provisional custody. He re- or several separate outbreaks. Photo credit: Branko Stojisavljevic/Shutterstock
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Change behind Spain’s bars A NEIGHBOURHOOD bar can keep the same sign, the same regulars and the same tortilla for years. But the person holding the keys is increasingly likely to have come from somewhere else. Foreign nationals now account for 25.5 per cent of
Spain’s self-employed hospitality workers, effectively one in four, and their role is even larger among salaried staff, where they make up almost one in three. Barcelona offers the clearest glimpse of the change. A council survey of 999 bars
and restaurants found that almost 44 per cent had an owner of foreign nationality. Chinese nationals alone represented 18.6 per cent, close to one in five, followed at some distance by Italians and Pakistanis. That does not mean every familiar Spanish bar is turning into a Chinese or foreign restaurant. Many new owners still retain the coffees, beers, local tapas and classic menu del dia that customers already know and love. Self-employment groups say foreign entrepreneurs are also helping to fill a growing succession gap as older owners retire and find it increasingly hard to pass down their business to a generation uninterested in long hours, rising costs and tight margins. The figures require care though: Spain counts individual autonomos rather than establishments, and hospitality includes accommodation. Even so, a quiet changing of the guard is clearly taking place behind Spain’s bar counters.
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
10 13 - 19 August 2026 ASK THE OFFICER
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“I nearly missed my ship on embarkation day and spent the last two days of my cruise worrying about my flight home. What am I doing wrong?”
SARA ROMERA: THE AUTHOR OF INSIDE THE FLOATING CITY AND THE DISCERNING VOYAGER.
THE calmest passengers I’ve ever watched start their cruise the same unremarkable way: sleep on land the night before, a hot shower, coffee in a real cup, suitcase by the door. No scrambling, no sprinting through a terminal, no white-knuckle taxi ride to the pier. They arrive the day before embarkation, and it makes everything that follows easier. Rather than indulgence, it’s good seamanship. It’s how crew travel. If the cruise line builds that buffer for its own people, build one for yourself. It gives a delayed bag time to catch up. A missed connection becomes a shrug rather than a ruin. Book the hotel, wander out for dinner if you have the energy, and if you don’t, shower and sleep. Either way, you step on board as a guest, not a casualty of the morning. If same-day arrival is truly unavoidable, know what you’re asking of your
Credit: Krakenimages.com/Shutterstock.
The answer is buffers, and the crew never skip them.
Don’t miss embarkation.
luck. Book a nonstop flight. Land by 10.30am at the latest. Pack all medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and swimwear in your carry-on and accept that your checked bag may not find you for days. Remember the ship’s
check-in closes well before sail-away. The return journey catches more people out than the outbound. Here is the truth from the operations side: an itinerary that reads “arrival 06.00” does not mean you can walk off at 06.01.
First the ship must be cleared, border officers come on board, manifests are reviewed, and only when the approval stamp lands does the gangway light flip from red to green. Union rules put border officers and longshoremen on a 7.00am start. Then come the breakfast lines, the elevators, the luggage halls, and the taxis that appear and vanish before you reach the front of the queue. Anything before 4.00pm for your flight home is asking for trouble, even on a direct route. If you can, give yourself one more night at the port. Walk the waterfront. Eat something good. Fly tomorrow. You planned this trip carefully. Don’t let the edges undo it. Vega Mare now writes under her real name, Sara Romera. Sara Romera is the author of Inside the Floating City and The Discerning Voyager.
Have a cruise question? Write to contact@sararomera.com. Selected questions will be featured in upcoming columns.
A FINAL night at Tona’s summer feria turned frightening when a door opened on a fairground ride while its tilted platform was still spinning. The accident happened shortly before midnight on Tuesday, August
4. Several young riders were reportedly flung from the Disco Show attraction, leaving nine people injured, eight of them children. Two girls, aged 12 and 14, suffered fractures and were taken to Hospi-
tal de Vic. Later updates said their injuries were not life-threatening. Three other youngsters were also taken to hospital, while four people were treated at the scene for minor injuries. Ambulances, firefighters and police rushed to the fairground, where the ride was sealed for technical checks and the remaining attractions were closed. Investigators are now trying to establish why the door opened. Fairground rides are a familiar part of Spain’s summer fiestas, especially for children and teenagers. Nothing reported so far points to a wider safety problem, and accidents of this kind are not commonplace. Even so, some families may find themselves checking the safety bar or closed door a little more carefully the next time the music starts and a ride begins to spin.
Jellyfish invasion MORE than 120 people were stung in a single day after an invasion of Portuguese man o’ war forced the temporary closure of several beaches along Spain’s Basque coast. Red flags were raised at San Sebastian’s famous beaches, including La Concha, Ondarreta and Zurriola, after lifeguards spotted large numbers of the venomous marine creatures drifting close to shore. The Portuguese man o’ war, often mistaken for jellyfish but considerably more dangerous, can deliver extremely painful stings through its long tentacles, which reMore than 120 people stung in one day. main dangerous even after the animal has washed up on which have carried the floating organisms the beach. Most of the injuries reported were treated towards the coastline. Authorities say sea temperatures of around by lifeguards and were not considered serious. However, earlier the same week one 24.8C have helped the creatures survive close regular swimmer was taken to hospital after to shore. Beachgoers are being urged not to touch suffering multiple stings near Getaria, while another woman required ambulance treat- Portuguese man o’ war, even if they appear dead on the sand, as their tentacles can still inment after being stung at Zarautz. Experts believe the sudden influx has been ject venom. Anyone who is stung should leave caused by persistent north-easterly winds the water immediately and seek help from liand unusually warm sea temperatures, feguards or emergency services. Credit: Instagram/Ivancl_
Feria ride horror
FEATURE
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13 - 19 August 2026
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Driving on foreign plates in Spain? Know the rules before it’s too late. FOR many expatriates living in Spain, bringing a familiar UK or foreign-registered car over feels like the obvious choice when relocating. But how long can you actually keep driving on those plates before falling foul of Spanish law? According to Los Alcazares-based specialists Car Registrations Spain, the rules depend on residency status. Non-residents can generally drive a foreign-registered vehicle in Spain for up to six months before it must be switched to Spanish plates. For anyone who has taken up official residency, however, that window shrinks dramatically to just 30 days. Until the change is made, the vehicle must remain fully legal in its country of origin, meaning valid road tax, a current MOT where applicable, and proper insurance cover. Spanish authorities can easily verify a UK vehicle’s status through the DVLA’s online portal, so cutting corners is not advisable and could lead to complications down the line.
Many residents assume re-registration will be prohibitively expensive, but costs vary largely according to two key factors: the value of the vehicle and its CO2 emissions. The higher a vehicle’s value and emissions, the more regis-
tration tax is likely to apply. Older, lower-emission models often attract more modest fees, while newer or larger-engined cars can face higher import duty, though other associated costs tend to remain fairly consistent across vehicle types.
The process itself can be complex for anyone unfamiliar with Spanish bureaucracy or not confident in the language. It typically involves passing an ITV import test, settling customs formalities, paying the relevant taxes, and compiling the correct registration documentation, all of which can quickly become time-consuming without local expertise. Based in Los Alcazares, Car Registrations Spain has built a strong reputation for helping expatriates across the country handle imports efficiently and correctly. The company offers free, no-obligation quotes, requiring only basic details such as the registration number, make, model, year of manufacture and CO2 emissions to provide an accurate cost estimate. For anyone still driving on foreign plates, getting ahead of the deadline could save considerable hassle, and expense, later on.
FEATURE/EUROPRESS
r VOICE u o Y x
Credit: Capturing Images / Shutterstock
Many showed concern about the welfare of the horses.
Should horse carriage rides be banned? A RECENT horse carriage crash in Fuengirola, Malaga, has reignited debate over whether horse-drawn carriage rides should be banned, particularly during periods of extreme heat. Euro Weekly News readers were asked whether horse carriage rides should be banned, with the majority of respondents firmly in favour. Many focused-on animal welfare, while others acknowledged the impact a ban could have on those who rely on carriage rides for their income. For Linda McFadden, there should be an end to both horse and donkey rides. She said: “Time to stop those carriage rides plus the donkey rides.” Animal welfare was also central to Shon Drek’s response, who argued that animals deserve to be treated with the same consideration afforded to other living beings: “Respect for animals is respect for life. They are not toys for us to play games with. They think and they have emotions. They get anxious and bored. It’s incredibly sad to abuse them especially because we are humans with a conscience and should know better.” Melissa Baker was similarly critical of using horses to transport tourists in high temperatures, saying: “No one wants to see these poor horses in the heat carrying entitled tourists.” The potential danger to both ani-
mals and people was highlighted by Gordon O’Keeffe, who believed accidents could be avoided. “If accidents like this are happening and can easily be prevented, then yes. Horses are skittish at the best of times, unpredictable. Especially in boiling hot weather. Stressed and anxious, they can be very dangerous (point in question) The only other thing to consider is that these are people’s livelihoods, their only source of income perhaps?” That concern about livelihoods provides another side to the debate, with carriage operators potentially depending on the trade to support themselves and their families. However, for Ali Scott, responsibility ultimately rests with those in charge. “Those in authority need to act and not just talk about it!” Other readers were unequivocal in their views. Penny Evans simply responded: “Definitely yes.” Robb Spontaneous was equally direct, stating: “Yes. Total animal abuse.” The responses show strong concern about the welfare of horses used for carriage rides, particularly during periods of extreme heat. While the livelihoods of carriage operators remain an important consideration, most people said horse carriage rides should be banned, reflecting growing concern over whether the tradition can be justified when animal welfare and public safety may be at risk.
euroweeklynews.com
Shipwrecked Guiness A MURKY bottle of Guinness that spent more than 160 years beneath the sea could help scientists recreate the pint enjoyed in Victorian Ireland. Divers discovered up to 20 bottles of stout among the cargo of a shipwreck around five kilometres off Dover during the summer of 2025. The vessel is believed to be the Mindora, which sank after a collision in November 1864 while travelling from London to Vancouver. Rather than risk tasting the contents and attempting to split the oldest G in history, expedition diver Stefan Panis and historical researcher Paweł Truszynski have launched ‘Project Jurassic Beer’. Professor Kevin Verstrepen, a brewing yeast specialist at KU Leuven in Belgium, will help exa-
mine the bottles. Finding living yeast after so long is quite unlikely, but surviving DNA could lead scientists to a closely related modern strain and allow them to brew something resembling the original stout. The Guinness Archive at St James’s Gate in Dublin is also helping the
team assess the discovery and compare it with company records. There is still a little mystery attached. Historic documents differ over whether the ship was called Mindora or Mindoro, and its identity has not been formally confirmed. Nor has a tasting date been announced, so the Victorian pint remains tantalisingly out of reach.
Credit: Frederik Boving
Scientists hope the recovered yeast could help recreate the Guinness enjoyed in Victorian times.
Volcano airport shutdown Credit: Russell Harris X
12 13 - 19 August 2026
Etna erupts, causing airport chaos in Sicily.
HOLIDAYMAKERS heading to Sicily faced severe travel chaos after a dramatic nighttime eruption from Mount Etna forced aviation authorities to shut Catania airport on Friday, August 7. Lava fountains shot hundreds of metres into the night sky from the Voragine crater. A new fissure opened along the Valle del Leone at an altitude of roughly 2,750 metres, sending molten rock cascading down uninhabited slopes towards the Valle del Bove.
Thick plumes of dark volcanic ash pushed up to 7,300 metres high, drifting across eastern Sicily. Air traffic controllers issued a red aviation warning and suspended incoming flights at Catania’s Vincenzo Bellini Airport. Outbound journeys were quickly grounded due to a lack of aircraft on the tarmac. Brief lulls in activity permitted a few aircraft to touch down, but renewed ash clouds forced further runway closures. Airlines
diverted incoming jets to alternative airports, including Palermo, Trapani, and Comiso. Railway operator Trenitalia added emergency services through Messina and Palermo for stranded passengers. Civil protection volunteers deployed across regional terminals to assist passengers. Meanwhile, nearby towns experienced heavy falls of fine black ash. Local residents reported subterranean booms, together with striking views of the fiery orange glow.
FINANCE Ryanair sued
A TOTAL of 262 pilots have sued Ryanair for owed holiday pay. Ryanair often contract pilots through recruitment agencies, and argue independent pilots’ sick or holiday pay isn’t their responsibility. The lawsuit comes after Ryanair’s share price drops 16.52 per cent, as climbing fuel prices and slumping demand affect profits.
Streaming profits
SPOTIFY has recorded a net profit of €545 million in the second quarter of 2026, recovering losses of €86 million recorded in the previous fiscal year. Revenue increased 14 per cent to €4.7 billion, €4.3 billion of which came from paid “premium” subscriptions.
Preloved wedding
SECOND-HAND shopping is becoming increasingly popular, even for weddings. New data from Vinted shows searches for second-hand bridesmaid dresses are up 17 per cent. Many are trying to cut costs by buying pre-loved dresses, otherwise bridesmaids end up spending between £250 to £499 on the special day.
Heat losses
MORE than personal discomfort, frequent heatwaves can have a real effect on a country’s economy. According to Allianz Research, heat waves could reduce Spain’s GDP by 1.4 per cent. The loss is largely due to decreased productivity and increased pressure on infrastructure.
Reservations
INTERNATIONAL residents are expected to have empty stomachs and full wallets this August. Analysis by TheFork predicts tourists will account for 28 per cent of all restaurant reservations throughout the month. Comparatively, national tourism is expected to make up just 4 per cent.
euroweeklynews.com • 13 - 19 August 2026
STAT OF WEEK
Total spending by international tourists visiting Spain in June increased by 4.0 per cent, reaching €13.579 billion. Average daily spending rose by 0.7 per cent to €211, according to INE.
Exports hit all-time high ANDALUCIA has posted a new export record for the first five months of 2026, reaching €19 billion, up 3.8 per cent on the previous year. Malaga province set its own record with a 9.1 per cent increase, giving the Costa del Sol a strong boost to the regional figures. Spain as a whole recorded growth of just 1.3 per cent over the same period, leaving Andalucia well ahead. The region ended the period with a trade surplus of €900 million, while the national balance remained in deficit. Vegetables led exports at €2 billion, rising 15.7 per cent. Mineral fuels and the mining sector also performed strongly, with mining exports surging 80.2 per cent. Aeronautics increased 36.9 per cent to more than €1 billion, highlighting continued strength in high-value industry.
Airbus in Sevilla.
Germany remained the biggest export market at €2.5 billion, up 14.7 per cent. France, Italy and Portugal also recorded healthy growth, while exports to China jumped 64 per cent, opening new opportunities for Andalucian goods. Almeria and Cordoba joined Malaga in setting provincial export records, spreading growth across the region. Although Sevilla still handled the largest export volume, broader growth is creating
Social media sales SOCIAL MEDIA has changed almost every aspect of daily life, including purchasing habits. With the rise of social media came the demise of traditional marketing strategies - billboards, print ads, television adverts. Instead brands reach consumers where they’re at: online. It is estimated that European brands spend €35.5 billion a year on social media advertising, according to IAB Europe’s
Energy battle Credit: Junta
BUSINESS EXTRA
13
AdEx Benchmark Report. And one of their biggest demographics is teenagers and children, who almost use social media as a step-by-step guide on what to buy. Approximately 54 per cent of youths aged 12 to 15 find what they want to buy through social media. Another 24 per cent frequently watch unboxing or product review videos. But how will this marketing strategy, and consequently annual sales, change
opportunities for more businesses to expand. Stronger exports are expected to support jobs in logistics, aviation, food production and engineering. Firm demand across Europe, together with rising exports to China, underlines the appeal of Andalucian products. Officials monitor the figures through Andalucia Trade and the national trade ministry, with the latest results providing further confidence in the regional economy. Credit: Basilico Studio Stock/ Shutterstock
Teenagers use social media to figure out what to buy.
as governments across Europe take steps to limit under-16s social media use? Experts predict toys, fashion and beauty sectors to be the most impacted.
Crop crisis
Tax the banks
Purchasing
THE weekly grocery bill is set to get even more expensive, as farmers across Europe warn of a slump in food production. Extreme heat, wildfires and drought have all impacted the annual harvest, leading the EU to cut harvest predictions by 7 per cent. In Spain, it is expected the cereal crop will drop from 24 million tonnes to less than 18.5 million tonnes. Olive groves have been amongst the hardest hit, once again driving olive oil price rises.
AS Prime Minister Andy Burnham looks to tackle the cost of living crisis, there has been renewed demand to tax UK banks to help fund his agenda. The outcry also comes off the back of the UK’s biggest banks raking in a collective £29.2 billion in profit in the first half of 2026. Campaigners believe a windfall tax on this lucrative banking business could raise £19 billion, which would go towards the government’s October budget.
A BIGGER pay packet does not always mean a better standard of living. Across Europe, purchasing power offers a clearer picture of what minimum wage earners can actually afford once living costs are taken into account. While Luxembourg still tops the rankings for nominal pay, Spain performs far better when adjusted for purchasing power. It sits alongside France, Slovenia and Poland, with minimum wages worth more than 1,500 purchasing power standards (PPS). Findings from Eurostat highlight how lower living costs can boost workers’ spending power, proving that headline salaries alone do not tell the full story.
SPANISH supermarkets have declared war on the energy drink business. Two of Spain’s biggest chains - Carrefour and Mercadona - are taking advantage of the demand to sell their own branded beverages 40 per cent cheaper than Coca-Cola’s Monster, the most popular brand on the market. Energy drinks are big businesses. Annual sales grew 38 per cent in the last four years, reaching €298 million in 2025 with Spaniards buying approximately 105 million litres. However, new age restrictions could cut into profits.
Lease increase LEASING companies in Spain have invested heavily to expand fleets, spending €5.8 billion since January 2026. According to AER data, 235,388 new vehicles have been registered by leasing companies, 10.2 per cent more than in 2025. Strong investment is a positive sign of high demand. In fact, leasing a car is becoming a popular alternative to personal vehicle ownership, accounting for approximately 26.5 per cent of registered vehicles on the road.
Poetry boom THE hype around Christopher Nolan’s newest blockbuster, The Odyssey, has breached the Box Office, helping UK poetry sales reach record highs. After leaving the cinema, many movie-goers are seemingly heading to the bookshop. So far in 2026, poetry sales have increased by 13.3 per cent to £8 million. If momentum continues, sales could reach £17 million by the end of the year. UK print sales for the Odyssey increased by 1,400 per cent after the film’s release.
FINANCE
14 13 - 19 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 10 August
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Closing Prices 10 August
Net
3I Group.....................................2.847,00............2.877,00......... 2.835,00......... 223,21K Admiral Group............................3.943,80............3.962,00......... 3.884,00......... 111,67K Airtel Africa................................. 328,52................332,2............... 325............. 368,69K Anglo American..........................4.005,00............4.018,00......... 3.950,00......... 366,19K Antofagasta................................3.994,00............4.001,00......... 3.931,00......... 175,28K Associated British Foods............2.103,00............2.127,00......... 2.097,00.......... 76,56K AstraZeneca..............................12.012,40..........12.096,00....... 11.898,00........ 536,86K Auto Trader Group Plc................. 518,8.................520,4..............512,6........... 284,25K Aviva............................................ 715,6.................715,8..............706,4........... 817,15K B M European Value Retail........... 234,4...................236................. 232............. 261,71K BAE Systems..............................2.231,00............2.249,00......... 2.201,00.......... 845,3K Barclays....................................... 521,7...................522................514,5.............5,52M Barratt Redrow............................. 318,4.................319,1..............316,1.............3,93M Beazley.......................................1.292,00............1.295,50......... 1.291,00.......... 620,9K Berkeley.....................................3.574,00............3.574,00......... 3.492,00.......... 17,53K BP................................................ 519,6.................526,8..............518,3.............4,01M British American Tobacco..........4.446,00............4.454,00......... 4.341,00......... 258,07K BT Group..................................... 197,9.................200,8............... 197...............3,34M Bunzl..........................................2.860,00............2.860,00......... 2.826,00.......... 80,66K Centrica..........................................153..................154,3..............152,1.............1,74M Coca Cola HBC AG.....................4.992,00............5.000,00......... 4.898,00.......... 65,91K Compass....................................... 32,4..................32,64..............32,19........... 152,76K ConvaTec Group............................233..................233,6..............226,4.............1,84M Croda Intl...................................3.304,00............3.340,00......... 3.276,00.......... 62,81K DCC............................................6.375,00............6.380,00......... 6.370,00.......... 22,38K Diageo........................................1.792,60............1.800,00......... 1.717,50...........2,02M Diploma.....................................7.740,00............7.740,00......... 7.655,00......... 148,28K EasyJet......................................... 667,2...................674...............665,74............6,64M Entain.............................................537....................540................531,8........... 383,06K Experian.....................................2.854,00............2.859,00......... 2.821,00......... 848,45K F&C Invest.....................................344..................344,4..............342,8........... 240,54K Flutter Entertainment..................7.588,00............7.718,00......... 7.536,00...............0 Frasers...........................................811....................825................. 804............... 3,35K Fresnillo.....................................2.889,00............2.913,00......... 2.803,00......... 336,98K Glencore....................................... 560,2................568,55.............558,8.............4,33M GSK plc......................................1.962,50............1.970,50......... 1.931,00...........1,11M HALEON....................................... 372,1.................372,1............... 369...............1,79M Halma.........................................3.832,00............3.832,00......... 3.762,00.......... 66,56K Hikma Pharma...........................1.712,00............1.717,00......... 1.671,00......... 167,56K Hiscox........................................1.833,20............1.838,00......... 1.804,00.......... 215,9K Howden Joinery.............................834..................835,5..............827,5............ 39,22K HSBC.........................................1.535,80............1.536,80......... 1.519,60...........4,37M IAG............................................... 444,6.................445,1..............439,1.............1,98M ICG PLC.....................................2.030,00............2.032,00......... 2.012,00.......... 67,82K IMI PLC......................................3.126,00............3.138,00......... 3.100,00......... 178,42K Imperial Brands..........................2.788,00............2.788,00......... 2.750,00......... 214,57K Informa........................................ 903,4.................908,4............... 899............. 282,08K InterContinental........................... 158,1.................158,4..............156,4............ 32,81K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
Intertek.......................................5.835,00............5.840,00......... 5.835,00.......... 26,91K J Sainsbury.................................. 351,6.................353,3.............349,79.......... 551,03K JD Sports Fashion........................ 95,06.................95,42..............93,48.............3,38M Kingfisher..................................... 327,1.................327,1..............322,4........... 437,45K Land Securities............................ 711,5.................712,5............... 706............. 388,24K Legal & General.......................... 315,92..................316................308,8.............4,53M Lloyds Banking............................ 115,9...................116...............113,95...........22,75M London Stock Exchange.............8.972,00............8.978,00......... 8.718,00......... 264,98K Londonmetric Property................ 194,4.................195,9..............192,5.............1,51M M&G............................................ 365,6.................365,7..............360,9........... 531,01K Marks & Spencer........................ 405,75................407,7..............402,4.............1,28M Melrose Industries....................... 480,9.................482,9............... 476............. 371,38K Mondi........................................... 906,8...................927................902,6............ 57,19K National Grid..............................1.194,71............1.196,25......... 1.183,00............1,3M NatWest Group..............................717..................717,6..............704,2.............2,94M Next..........................................15.805,00..........15.820,00....... 15.625,00......... 29,81K Pearson......................................1.225,50............1.238,50......... 1.224,50......... 147,45K Pershing Square........................3.920,00............3.938,00......... 3.888,00.......... 49,08K Persimmon................................1.143,00............1.151,70......... 1.133,00......... 464,54K Prudential...................................1.052,00............1.053,00......... 1.023,50...........1,13M Reckitt Benckiser.......................5.284,00............5.288,00......... 5.242,00......... 149,29K Relx............................................2.614,50............2.638,00......... 2.588,00......... 876,29K Rentokil....................................... 359,05................360,2.............355,23............6,63M Rightmove................................... 476,4.................478,9.............468,35.......... 521,13K Rio Tinto PLC.............................7.455,00............7.515,00......... 7.439,00.......... 313,7K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.546,40............1.550,40......... 1.526,20...........1,44M Sage...........................................1.036,50............1.046,94......... 1.021,50......... 512,94K Schroders.................................... 583,5...................584................. 583............. 145,95K Scottish Mortgage......................1.377,00............1.378,00......... 1.365,00......... 294,17K Segro.............................................964..................965,8..............953,6........... 567,93K Severn Trent..............................3.106,00............3.112,00......... 3.080,00.......... 36,16K Shell...........................................3.294,00............3.330,00......... 3.283,00.......... 895,3K Smith & Nephew........................1.110,00............1.110,50......... 1.098,00......... 827,51K Smiths Group.............................2.717,00............2.717,05......... 2.691,00......... 192,92K Spirax-Sarco Engineering..........7.489,70............7.495,00......... 7.369,50.......... 47,75K SSE............................................2.368,00............2.383,00......... 2.357,00......... 202,18K Standard Chartered....................2.216,00............2.216,00......... 2.187,00......... 432,03K Standard Life................................ 941,5.................941,5..............927,5........... 252,46K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,14.................83,96..............82,94.............2,61M Tesco........................................... 471,9................475,51.............470,1.............2,93M Unilever......................................4.697,00............4.703,50......... 4.659,50............412K Unite..............................................537....................537................. 532............. 194,41K United Utilities............................1.423,00............1.427,00......... 1.410,00......... 127,52K Vistry Group................................. 275,2.................281,6..............272,2........... 237,99K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 119,85................120,2.............118,65...........13,65M Weir Group................................2.702,00............2.704,00......... 2.682,00.......... 71,91K Whitbread..................................2.510,00............2.523,00......... 2.490,30........... 48,4K WPP............................................. 393,3...................396................379,7.............2,56M
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 180,71................183,5.............179,46............2,55M Amazon.com............................... 272,26...............275,48............271,06...........30,67M American Express........................ 342,6...................350...............342,07............2,77M Amgen........................................ 404,85................418,4..............401,2.............2,61M Apple........................................... 312,41...............316,29............309,23...........46,14M Boeing......................................... 232,19...............240,37............231,33............7,13M Caterpillar.................................... 856,96...............879,33............856,96.............2,9M Chevron...................................... 189,23...............189,78............187,02............7,18M Cisco........................................... 120,88...............122,19.............119,9............14,05M Coca-Cola..................................... 86,85.................87,97..............86,42............13,57M Goldman Sachs..........................1.032,58............1.068,04......... 1.030,78...........1,73M Home Depot................................ 349,52...............353,55............347,51............2,62M Honeywell................................... 240,74..................250...............239,93............5,04M IBM............................................. 233,43...............234,47............228,44............4,25M J&J............................................. 256,98...............262,11............255,28............6,93M JPMorgan.................................... 356,3................362,81............354,95............5,82M McDonald’s................................. 276,26...............276,83............271,76............4,21M Merck&Co................................... 128,37...............131,08.............127,8.............7,05M Microsoft.................................... 499,86...............501,56............488,52...........36,44M Nike.................................................42...................42,64..............41,85............18,15M NVIDIA........................................ 218,99...............223,63.............. 217.............113,94M P&G............................................ 146,97................148,5.............145,45............8,77M Salesforce Inc............................. 186,77...............187,02.............. 183...............13,3M Sherwin-Williams........................ 363,42...............371,53............362,13............1,88M The Travelers.................................386.................386,59............382,25............1,48M UnitedHealth............................... 403,97...............416,97.............402,4.............4,71M Verizon......................................... 46,99.................47,48..............46,58.............24,3M Visa A.......................................... 370,47................371,1.............365,25............5,02M Walmart...................................... 112,07...............114,56............111,04............23,2M Walt Disney................................. 104,68...............104,73............102,52...........14,05M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 10 August
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced TEN Holdings.................................................. 252,20 %........................68,98M Wing Yip Food Holdings ADR......................... 194,28 %........................57,78M ClearOne......................................................... 166,30 %........................69,45M Creative Medical Tech Holdings....................... 71,92 %.........................272,9M Gauzy............................................................... 67,81 %........................234,25M Autozi Internet Technology.............................. 58,42 %.........................69,98M Zenta................................................................ 47,79 %..........................2,32M Wearable Devices............................................. 46,71 %..........................8,29M Surgepays........................................................ 45,66 %.........................273,8M Ensysce Biosciences........................................ 44,83 %........................498,05M Iovance Biotherapeutics................................... 43,09 %.........................73,43M Honest Company.............................................. 40,78 %..........................20,1M Paranovus Entertainment Tech........................ 40,12 %.........................31,36M Insmed............................................................. 33,86 %.........................12,04M Oportun Financial............................................. 32,84 %..........................2,45M Hertz Global Holdings...................................... 29,49 %........................155,82M Paysign............................................................ 29,30 %..........................3,33M Aeva Technologies........................................... 28,81 %..........................8,43M 5E Advanced Materials..................................... 27,94 %........................630,33K M - Million Dollars
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Declined YXT.Com Holding ADR....................................-66,07 %..........................3,25M ThredUp...........................................................-50,48 %.........................22,34M Vsee Health......................................................-39,84 %..........................5,75M BillionToOne.....................................................-38,89 %..........................3,75M Recon Technology...........................................-34,12 %..........................81,6M Biovie...............................................................-33,82 %..........................8,78M Commerce.com................................................-31,96 %..........................6,09M XCHG Ltd ADR.................................................-30,26 %.........................15,46M LegalZoom.com...............................................-30,00 %.........................13,06M Inseego............................................................-28,60 %..........................1,93M Olenox Industries.............................................-27,93 %........................157,54K biote Corp........................................................-27,88 %........................704,97K Context Therapeutics.......................................-27,27 %..........................4,34M Reitar Logtech Holdings...................................-26,72 %.........................27,12M Akebia Ther......................................................-26,05 %.........................17,69M Tripadvisor.......................................................-25,52 %.........................11,26M AiRWA.............................................................-25,51 %.........................58,74M Advantage Solutions........................................-23,26 %........................305,44K Honeywell Aerospace.......................................-23,16 %.........................20,63M M - Million Dollars
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
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, our 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 programs most certainly are. There are SEVEN cop shows running at the moment, from cops in the sky to the most recent, which concerns seizing criminal’s assets. (Scraping the barrel comes
American TV robo cops. Let’s all get back to the true reality. The fact that glamourising the police doesn’t do one iota toward rooting out criminals. Posing on telly and signing 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. I don’t know about you but I am also heartily sick of this entire ‘touchy-feely’ syndrome that seems to have crept into British sport. Even cricket which used to be such a wonderful stiff upper lip occasion now sees batsmen hurrying up to each other and touching fists after a particularly good shot. Doubles at tennis is another example of this ridiculous habit. In fact, they still fist each other when they actually lose a point. All this coupled with the orgasmic grunts just about sums up the whole caboodle of our modern. self-subsidising players. For heaven’s sake, give us all a break. Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Madrid’s new Madring circuit will stage its inaugural Formula 1 weekend from September 11 to 13.
AT 3pm on Sunday, September 13, the finish line is due to be crossed at Madrid’s newest sporting attraction. Formula 1 will race at Madring for the first time, bringing the Spanish Grand Prix to a 5.4-kilometre circuit built around IFEMA and Valdebebas. The weekend begins on Friday September 11, with Formula 1 practice at 1.30pm and 5pm. A final practice session follows at 12.30pm on Saturday, before qualifying at 4pm. Formula 2 and Formula 3 will fill much of the space between the main sessions, with their own practice, qualifying and races spread across the weekend. The new circuit mixes permanent sections with public roads and contains 22 corners. Its showpiece is La Monumental, an almost 550-metre banked curve expected to be surrounded by tens of thousands of spectators. Anyone attending should plan around public transport as organisers say there will be no general parking at the circuit. Metro Line 8 stops at Feria de Madrid, while the C1 Cercanías train serves Valdebebas. Before the Grand Prix arrives, Formula 3 cars will test the track on August 24 and 25 as part of its final operational and safety preparations.
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Ted Lasso t: Apple TV edi Cr
AFTER a cathartic, only slightly disappointing finale, Ted Lasso has unexpectedly returned for a fourth season. The American-football coach turned proper-football coach is back at Richmond, this time to lead the Lady Grayhounds to victory. Releasing weekly on Apple TV, the first few episodes already feel like a return to form, with each episode full
The Drama DAYS before Robert Pattinson and Zendaya’s characters are set to walk down the aisle, the two go to dinner with their close friends. After a few too many glasses of wine, secrets come to light that change everything, sending their wedding week off the rails. The Drama is at once a hilarious dark comedy, and a fascinating philosophical think-piece that will leave viewers debating long after the end credits. X
OTHERS THINK IT
to mind!). 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 order and criminal acts are then copied by other members of toe rag society, who would normally be wary of the unknown outcome their actions could bring. No, I’m sorry but respect for the law is obtained by solving crime and putting away the bad guys, not strutting around like jumped up, ego tripping
4/
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
Madrid Grand Prix Credit: Motorsport Photography F1
Give us all a break
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of Kansas quips, British banter and lots of positivity.
FEATURE/EUROPRESS
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Human chain
HUNDREDS of beachgoers on a Baltic beach in Stegna, Poland, joined forces on Saturday, June 29 after a mother feared her husband and twoand-a-half-year-old son had vanished in the water, with footage of the dramatic human chain rescue effort recently going viral on social media. Lifeguards had already raised red flags due to rough conditions, prohibiting swimming. Panic set in when the mother, Bogusia, could not locate her family after they had left their blanket for a swim, leaving their mobile phones behind. Rather than waiting for official instruction, bystanders acted immediately. Dozens of strangers linked arms to create a ‘łancuch zycia’, a chain of life, weeping through the shallow water and shoreline to loca-
Credit: @CaseyKrol - X
Instant human chain in Polish shores.
te anyone submerged in trouble. Lifeguards joined the effort, using megaphones to coordinate search patterns, while all-terrain vehicles traversed the sand. The frantic search ended with immense relief when the pair returned unharmed. The father had seen the red warning flag and decided against entering the sea, opting instead to take his young son into the nearby du-
nes to search for shells. He was completely unaware that a full-scale rescue operation was underway. While this alarm was unfounded, the immediate reaction illustrated strong local solidarity. Joint rescue chains are a familiar sight on Polish beaches, where holidaymakers recognise the dangers of sudden sea currents and understand that quick, collective action saves lives.
Getting away with murder in Spain - sort of! NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
WITH today’s global uncertainty, is it surprising we’re drawn to TV crime dramas? Their mysteries, twists and memorable characters let us experience all the thrills of real life but none of the spills! And faced with such unpredictability we get solutions and closure. Whether it’s the UK’s ‘Line of Duty’ or Spain’s ‘Money Heist’ (‘La casa de papel’, a massive global phenomenon), ‘The Innocent’ (‘El inocente’), ‘I Know Who You Are’ (‘Sé quién eres’) or ‘Locked Up’ (‘Vis a vis’, the Spanish equivalent
to ‘Orange Is the New Black’). However, it’s not just crime drama that’s flourished. Readers have turned in droves to crime novels to see the good guys win and loose ends tied up and readers tell me this is what they like about my crime thrillers. The latest ‘The Girl in Red’ just published both on Kindle and in paperback and ‘The House of Secrets’ available soon in audiobook format - all culminating in an invitation for inclusion in the prestigious Book Riot’s 2026 Read Harder Challenge! All novels narrated as before by Rayner Bourton (‘Rocky’ in The Rocky Horror Show’s original London production). Thanks for all messages to my website below about this column (you’ve followed now for 17 years!) and my audiobooks (free audio samples on Amazon). Happy listening!
Nora Johnson’s 15 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
IMAGINE throwing away €1 million. A woman in Italy recently did exactly that when she binned her winning lottery ticket, not realising it was worth a fortune. It was any other day for the winner - a woman who has chosen to remain anonymous. Hoping but never expecting to win, she went down to check her lottery ticket at the local shop. When the words “non-payable” popped up on the screen, she didn’t think much of it. Oh well, try again next week. It wasn’t until she returned home that a loved one told her that her numbers - the ones she played every week - had won. The machine had displayed “non-payable” not because she hadn’t won, but because small vendors can’t redeem such large pay-outs. The family immediately ran back to the shop, but it was too late. The ticket was gone. Not gi-
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Lucky bin Credit: PeopleImages / Shutterstock
Bin men help search for a winning lottery ticket.
ving up hope, the woman rang Italy’s waste management company and asked if there was anything they could do to help track down the ticket. With the promise she would reimburse any additional costs, refuse workers reconstructed
the route the bin-lorry would have taken. Luck had struck this woman once, would it strike again? Finally, after a two-day search at a specialised plan, the million-euro lottery ticket was found, somehow still intact.
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FEATURE
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Costa del Sol
Costa Blanca South
Birthday blended with giving
Summer surge
LOCAL favourite and Hollywood star Antonio Banderas marked his 66th birthday at the 17th Starlite Occident Gala, held under the stars in Marbella’s historic Nagueles quarry. The evening fused a 1970s hippy theme with a serious charitable mission. Banderas struck a reflective tone. “Peace and love is now a slogan that unfortunately makes very little sense in the world we are living in,” he said, signalling a shift from glamour to purpose. At midnight, Plácido Domingo led the room in singing Happy Birthday. In a spontaneous move, Banderas donated the very shirt he was wearing, painted by his own hand, to the charity auction. Proceeds support the Starlite Foundation’s work with Niños en Alegria, Cudeca and Lagrimas y Favores, Banderas’s own foundation.
TORREVIEJA is bursting into life this August, with new estimates suggesting as many as 438,000 people could be staying in the city at the height of the summer season. With around 113,000 residents registered on the municipal population roll, the figures mean Torrevieja is effectively becoming almost four times its normal size. The estimates come from a technical report prepared for Torrevieja Town Hall, providing a striking picture of just how dramatically the community changes each summer. July’s equivalent population is estimated at around 414,000, rising to 438,000 during August. Even in September, around 348,000 people could still be using the city’s homes, streets and services. Torrevieja’s huge number of second homes plays a major role. The municipality has more than 62,000 of them, while only around 1,600 hotel places are available across 14 hotels.
Axarquia
Almeria
Shocking pink
Pride in full colour
BEACHGOERS on Cotobro beach in Almuñecar received an unexpected surprise one Saturday in July around 11am when a rare pink visitor landed on the shoreline. A greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) touched down near the water, prompting astonished onlookers to pause and film the creature before it took off a few minutes later. Local resident Álvaro Martín captured the moment on video, noting that everyone stopped to watch the bird. Footage shared on social media rapidly spread among residents who missed the brief spectacle. Greater flamingos are renowned for their long legs, curved bills, and vivid pink plumage, which derives from their diet of crustaceans and algae. The birds typically favour shallow saline lagoons and coastal wetlands over open Mediterranean beaches. In Granada province, flamingos are usually seen only as passing visitors, making a direct landing on Cotobro beach particularly unusual.
VERA demonstrated its pride in true technicolour, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with an outrageously bright and festive parade. The 2026 Vera Playa Pride Parade marks a decade of advocacy. More than a bright party atmosphere, this march through the streets represents the importance of diversity and respect, positioning the freedom to live and love authentically as a basic right that should be afforded to all. Anticipation was high in the days leading up to the landmark event, especially as the parade was postponed out of respect for the Los Gallardos wildfire. Thousands flooded the streets in support. Some followed the route in cars, soft tops down and music blaring. Others partied on elaborately decorated floats. Hundreds more followed on foot, until the parade arrived at Playa Vera Hotel, where Rafa Lopez took to the stage to deliver the traditional Pride Proclamation.
Mallorca
Costa Blanca North
A royal good time
Miles that matter
KING FELIPE VI has wrapped up a busy weekend in Mallorca after competing in the 44th Copa del Rey de Vela before joining his family for dinner at a Palma restaurant. The King sailed aboard Hispania in the Abanca ORC 0 class, finishing second overall and winning the final race of the prestigious regatta in the Bay of Palma. After racing ended, Felipe attended the trophy ceremony at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, where he was welcomed by Balearic President Marga Prohens and other regional and local officials before presenting awards to the winning crews. Later, he joined Queen Letizia, Queen Sofía, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía at Mía restaurant in Palma’s Portitxol district. The family were also accompanied by Jean Henri Fruchaud, a close friend of Queen Sofía. The dinner provided a relaxed end to the royal family’s Mallorca weekend.
BENIDORM became part of a deeply moving nationwide challenge when Madrid firefighter Jaime Domínguez Ibáñez ran 42 kilometres through the resort to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental health. Known as JimmyGo, the ultrarunner was joined by local athletes and Marina Baixa firefighters as he tackled a route taking in Poniente and Levante beaches before finishing outside Benidorm City Hall. The marathon was one stage of his ‘Break the Silence’ campaign. Domínguez has pledged to run 3,953 kilometres across Spain, one for every person who died by suicide in the country in 2024. Along the way, he carries a ‘torch of silence’, filled with names and messages dedicated to people lost to suicide. Benidorm also hosted a talk about the campaign, giving residents the chance to hear the personal story behind his mission. For JimmyGo, every exhausting kilometre carries the same message: silence should never stand in the way of asking for help.
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PETS
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HEALTHY ears are an important part of your dog’s overall wellbeing, but they’re often overlooked until a problem appears. Regular checks can help you spot issues early and keep your four-legged friend comfortable. Start by looking inside your dog’s ears once a week. Healthy ears should be clean, pale pink and free from strong odours. A small amount of wax is perfectly normal, but redness, swelling, excessive wax or an unpleasant smell could point to an infection or ear mites. When it comes to cleaning, always use a dog-friendly ear cleaner recommended by your vet. Gently apply the solution, massage the base of the ear for a few seconds, then let your dog shake their head before wiping away any loosened debris. There are a few things you should avoid. Never insert cotton buds into your dog’s ear canal, as they can push wax deeper inside or even cause injury. Household products, alcohol and hydrogen
Credit: Laracuth / Shutterstock
Clean ears, happy dog
Check ears regularly.
peroxide should also stay well away from your pet’s ears as they may irritate the delicate skin. Dogs with floppy ears or those that enjoy swimming may need more frequent ear checks, as
moisture can encourage infections. If your dog is scratching their ears constantly, shaking their head or seems uncomfortable, arrange a visit to your vet rather than attempting to treat the problem yourself.
CATS may spend plenty of time sleeping, but they also need opportunities to climb, explore and stay active. A cat tree can provide the perfect space for your furry companion to play, relax and satisfy their natural instincts. One of the biggest benefits of a cat tree is that it allows cats to climb and observe their surroundings from a safe height. Being up high helps cats feel secure and gives them a place to retreat when they want some quiet time. This is especially useful in busy homes or households with other pets. Cat trees also support healthy habits by encouraging movement. Jumping between levels, stretching
out and scratching posts help cats exercise their muscles while keeping boredom at bay. Scratching is a normal behaviour for cats, helping them maintain their claws and mark their territory, so a dedicated scratching area can also protect your furniture. For indoor cats, a cat tree offers valuable mental stimulation. Different platforms, hiding spots and toys can turn an ordinary corner of your home into an exciting adventure zone. Choosing the right cat tree depends on your cat’s size, age and personality. With the right design, a cat tree can become a favourite spot where your pet feels comfortable, entertained and happy every day.
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KGM Rhino – capable, comfortable and full of features ROAD TEST
Facts at a Glance
By Mark Slack THE pick-up market has changed from one of purely working vehicles to one that now encompasses a more mixed, leisure orientated set of buyers. Standard and optional equipment now includes many features found in cars, many of them in luxury models, with ventilated seats, navigation and adaptive cruise control not being unusual on the specification list. KGM, previously SsangYong, have been progressing their range with a more refined and quality bias for some time and we are seeing the results. The latest Musso Rhino pick-up is an example in point and is very much a top-line model with standard features that put many cars to shame and raises its game against the competition. Prices start from €45,585/£38,995 with the plus model adding a €1,169/£1,000 premium. Essentially the Rhino+ adds a more capacious load carrying capacity, courtesy of a slightly longer load bed, and an increased payload weight. While the Rhino may not worry the
likes of Ford’s Ranger, it does offer an excellent specification for a very competitive price. With suitably rugged looks it comes with selectable all-wheel-drive, including low range, hill descent and hill start. Over a rugged but dry and dusty course, the Rhino coped admirably. It’s not meant to be a Land Rover capable off roader, but it’s much more capable than many would imagine. Standard fare is very generous with everything from Nappa leather seats, heated seats all-round and ventilated front seats to intelligent cruise control, dual zone climate and much more. The interior feels very car like, and not at all utilitarian, with buttons, rotary dials,
a touchscreen that offers a simple swipe to access driver safety systems, it’s an object lesson in how to make a vehicle pleasant to drive. The 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engine is not the most refined but, unless pushed hard, is surprisingly smooth. There is no manual gear option but the 6-speed automatic changes smoothly enough and it’s not difficult to keep up with traffic even on faster roads. On the road the ride is a bit choppy (the Rhino EV rides noticeably smoothly and a report on that will follow next month) although it’s better when cruising and handles particularly well in
• Model: KGM Musso Rhino • Engine: 2.2-litre turbo-diesel developing 202PS and developing 400Nm of torque. • Gears: 6-speed automatic, selectable all-wheel-drive with high and low ratio and locking rear differential • Price: €45,585/£38,995 excl’ VAT • Performance: Maximum speed 172kph/107mph/3.5 tonne tow capacity/1090kg payload • Economy: 7.9 litres per 100km/29.6mpg • Emissions: 252 g/km Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets. off-road conditions. For those not worried by the badge on the bonnet, or the perceived trends as to what is a ‘must buy’, the Rhino offers a superbly well-equipped, capable and price competitive option. Some competitors may be more polished, but KGM has really stepped up its game with the latest Rhino.
GIBRALTAR’s Ministry of Transport has issued its first fixed penalty notice under new UKEU treaty rules, fining a Spanish taxi driver £300 for operating on the Rock without a local licence. Transport inspectors intercepted the marked vehicle on Devil’s Tower Road, citing the driver for using a motor vehicle as a public service vehicle without approval from Gibraltar’s Transport Commission. Royal Gibraltar Police and Transport Inspectors continue to patrol the border to prevent unauthorised Spanish taxis and private-hire cars from entering. Road signs clearly state that Spanish cabs are prohibited from crossing. Passengers traveling into Gibraltar from Spain must disembark at the border and board a locally licensed taxi.
Credit: Shutterstock
Spanish taxi fined Credit: gibraltar.gov
Second-hand secrets Second-car showroom. Taxi pinched for taking ride in Gibraltar territory.
The current EU-UK agreement excludes cross-frontier taxi and private-hire operations. Authorities confirmed they will enforce existing legislation to protect local drivers from being undercut by foreign operators, with plans already underway to increase fine amounts. Personal travel in Spanish-registered private vehicles remains permitted, but commercial activities face strict controls. Spanish priva-
te-hire services, chauffeur-driven vehicles, and commercial deliveries must comply with full border regulations or face financial penalties. Gibraltar officials stressed that strict enforcement will continue to maintain standards and protect local businesses. Anyone driving across the border should remember that some foreign vehicles are restricted strictly to personal use.
SPAIN’s vehicle fleet continues to age despite thousands of new registration plates appearing every month. Almost 11 per cent of all new registrations in the first quarter of 2026 were used cars, vans and SUVs imported from other European nations. These 55,241 imported vehicles averaged 10.5 years old, and more than one in five had passed 15 years. Once granted Spanish plates, official registers log them as brand-new entries, hiding their true working life. Germany supplies 44 per cent of these imports, generally sending cleaner Euro 6 models. France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Italy supply much of the rest, with French cars often failing to meet basic environmental standards. Over 86 per cent
arrive from within the European Economic Area under free-movement regulations. Older imported models frequently lack modern driver-assistance systems, creating potential safety issues. Cars over 10 years old face growing restrictions in low-emission zones within towns of more than 50,000 residents. Higher annual ITV inspection costs and unknown service histories add further financial uncertainty for buyers. The DGT traffic authority recommends requesting a full vehicle report to check the original registration date before completing a purchase. Nevertheless, for low-income drivers facing economic pressure, second-hand imports remain a vital, affordable way to stay mobile by replacing even older domestic cars.