Costa Calida 19 - 25 June 2025 Issue 2085

Historic Air Show

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

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

King Felipe VI attended the show from the military officers’ club in San Javier. The event featured more than 30 aircraft from six countries. It started with a skydive display by Spain’s Parachute Acrobatics Team, followed by a dramatic demonstration from a firefighting plane that scooped up water from the Mar Menor and sprayed it high in the air.

Two jazz legends

THIS July, the 27th San Javier International Jazz Festival will give its main prize to two amazing musicians: bassist Marcus Miller and pianist Enrico Pieranunzi. Both will perform at the festival, held at the Parque Almansa auditorium in San Javier. Marcus Miller will close the festival on July 22. He’s known as one of the best bass players ever and mixes jazz with styles like funk and soul. Miller has played on over 500 records with stars like Miles Davis, Aretha

Rescue ready

HUNDREDS of people and their dogs took part in the ‘Adopta Vida Camina’ (‘Adopt Life, Walk’) event on Sunday June 15, to promote responsible pet adoption in Cartagena. The walk began at the Palacio de Deportes (Sports Palace) and ended at Kiosko Miguel in Tentegorra.

Organised by the Adopta Vida Association with support from the Sports Department of Cartagena City Council, the walk aimed to raise awareness about abandoned animals and encourage people to adopt responsibly.

Cartagena’s councillor for Sports, José Martínez, also took part in the event, accompanied by his dog Lobo (Wolf).

It was a chance for the community to enjoy the outdoors while supporting a meaningful cause, giving abandoned animals a second chance through adoption.

Franklin, Eric Clapton, and Elton John. Enrico Pieranunzi will perform on July 9 with Gabriele Mirabassi and Luca Bulgarelli. He’s seen as one of Europe’s top jazz pianists and a key figure in Italian jazz.

Costa Calida • No. 2085 • 19 - 25 June 2025 FREE

Paws united for change.

Images: Cartagena.es

Casa de SM el Rey

King Felipe VI attended the show.

Image: San Javier Town Hall Celebrating Jazz’s Greatest Voices

From front page

San Javier air show draws crowds

There were huge cheers for the CH-47 Chinook helicopter, and historic planes like the Bücker, T-6 Texan, and Mentor flew in formation.

The Saeta, Spain’s first-ever jet aircraft from the 1950s, was also part of the lineup.

Moving to more modern aircraft, the Eurofighter Typhoon stole the show with a powerful display that broke the sound barrier, a loud boom that made everyone look up in amazement. International display teams joined the event, including the Swiss Patrouille Suisse, who flew their red and white jets in perfect formation.

The Italian Frecce Tricolori flew with 10 jets and painted the Italian flag across the sky. The UK’s Red Arrows were also a crowd favourite, showing off their usual sharp manoeuvres and colourful trails.

But the highlight of the

day was the Patrulla Águila.

The seven pilots took to the sky in their classic C-101 jets and performed some of their best-known moves, flying in mirror formations, rolling through the air, drawing heart shapes with smoke, and corkscrewing together above the sea.

One of the most memorable moments was when they flew across the Mar Menor trailing red and yellow smoke to form the Spanish flag. The speaker, Captain Luis Verjano, spoke with emotion as he narrated their final routines. As he shouted ‘¡Viva España!’ through the loudspeakers,

A memorable moment when the red and yellow smoke formed the Spanish flag.

the crowd answered back with a loud ‘¡Viva!’

People of all ages had made their way to the coast from early morning. Brian, who had come from Bristol, said, "I can’t believe this is free, even the open day to view the aircraft. Anywhere else in the world, you would have to pay to see this. It’s amazing!"

A family from Norway told us, "The atmosphere is great, we biked here, we didn’t want to miss it!" A Spanish family said, "We watch this every time they do the show. We’re from Madrid and we always travel down to Murcia to see it and enjoy the experience." Anne, from Dublin, said, "This is the second air show we’ve seen here. This one was even better than previously. The music was great, and of course, the airplanes! It’s a great family day out. Although I think the adults enjoyed it even more than the kids!"

King Felipe Vi attended from the the military officers' club.

Casa de SM el Rey

Casa de SM el Rey

Miguel Luengo Gallego

Spain issues heat warning

Alerts now in English

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

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

Tracking the heat in a language everyone understands.

Inheritance Tax in Spain

Exemptions could apply

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Supreme Court halts fines New rental rules

Spain ends automatic tax penalties

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

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

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

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

This ruling ends the era of generic fines.

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

Court clamps down on tenants

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

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

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

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

March for respect

Together for fair treatment.

A GROUP of older residents in Cartagena took part in a peaceful march on Friday June 13 to call for respect and fair treatment. The walk, called ‘Walking Towards Fair Treatment for the Elderly,’ is part of the city’s activities to mark the International Day of Awareness of Elder Abuse, held every year on June 15.

The event started at 9.30am from the El Corte Inglés esplanade on Alameda de San Antón. From there, the group made their way through the centre of Cartagena, passing through Alameda, Plaza de España, Calle Carmen, Puertas de Murcia, and Calle Mayor, before finishing at the town hall square. Everyone who took part was given a free cap with the

march’s slogan, a numbered bib, and a bottle of water. Many also carried banners and balloons to help raise awareness.

Once they reached the square, councillor for the Elderly, Francisca Martínez, and Federation President María Beteta read out a statement in support of elderly rights.

Local groups also shared the ‘Good Treatment Decalogue,’ a set of points encouraging kindness, inclusion and dignity for older people. The event ended with a fun group activity called ‘Move to the Rhythm,’ led by city sports monitors. This is the third year the march has been held.

Cabo de Pop

THE Cabo de Pop festival is back for its seventh year on August 15 and 16, taking place by the Cabo de Palos lighthouse.

The event is run by the Cartagena City Council and PlanOut, and it’s bringing some of Spain’s best indie underground bands like Camellos, Yung Prado, and Menta.

This year, the festival keeps supporting both well-known and up-and-coming artists. Headlining is Camellos, a band from Madrid with a new album. Other acts include punk band Diamante Negro from Barcelona and electronic artist Yung Prado. Menta will also be performing.

But it’s not just about music. Cabo de Pop offers loads of family-friendly activities too. You can try kayaking, paddleboarding, diving, or take guided tours of the lighthouse and nearby salt flats. There are also workshops about the environment and things for kids to enjoy. Many of these need to be booked ahead on the festival website.

There will also be a market with local crafts and food trucks serving all kinds of food, including vegetarian and vegan options. All concerts are free and happen outside near the lighthouse.

For more info and to book activities, check out www.cabo depop.com.

Folk festival

SAN JAVIER kicks off the summer festival season with its 35th International Folklore Festival on Saturday, June 21, at Plaza de España. This year, the focus is on the traditions of the Murcia region, with folk groups coming from San Javier, Cartagena, and Murcia.

The festival features music and dance that mix old traditions with some new styles. Local groups come together to keep these customs alive, sharing dances and songs that have been passed down for years.

The event starts at 10.00pm and is free to attend. It’s a great chance to enjoy an evening outside with music, dance, and a bit of history. For anyone wanting to experience real local culture in a relaxed setting, this festival offers just that.

It’s a popular way to welcome summer and shows how important these traditions still are to the community here in San Javier.

Traditions come alive.

Beach rewind

Stepping back in time.

THE Villananitos Beach and the La Mota promenade in San Pedro del Pinatar looked like something from the early 1900s recently, thanks to the latest edition of the ‘Baños Modernistas en el Mar Menor,’ or Modernist Swim at the Mar Menor.

The event, organised by the Asociación Modernista Cartagena de Levante, brought the past to life along the seafront. Dozens of people dressed in outfits inspired by beach holidays from more than 100 years ago. They took part in traditional games, bathing scenes, and walks along

the sand.

The event was open to the public and gave everyone a chance to experience what summer by the Mar Menor was like in the past.

It was more than just a costume event. It was a way for people to learn about the area’s history and take part in something different.

Through the theme of modernism, the day helped remind people of the traditions of the Mar Menor and gave everyone a simple and enjoyable way to connect with the past.

Flight tribute

MURCIA’S International Airport in Corvera welcomed a very special flight, a Ryanair flight from Birmingham. It was the 1,200th flight to land at the airport this year, which coincided perfectly with the 1,200 years since Murcia was founded back in 825 AD.

To celebrate this coincidence, the airport held a small but meaningful ceremony as part of the ‘Murcia 1200’ anniversary project. The Ryanair crew and passengers were warmly greeted by city officials and the airport director. They handed out commemorative plaques and named the Ryanair crew official ambassadors for the year’s celebrations. One official said this event is a great way to bring together culture, tourism, and international promotion during such an important year for Murcia.

The ‘Murcia 1200’ project, run by the city council, celebrates the city’s long history with many cultural, historical, and tourism activities planned throughout 2025. The Ryanair flight carried around 162 passengers and helped share Murcia’s special anniversary with the world in a simple but meaningful way.

Ryanair flight marks milestone.

Image: Murcia City Hall

Image: San Pedro del Pinatar Town Hall

Royal training

SAN JAVIER is getting ready to welcome Princess Leonor, Spain’s future queen. She will be at the General Air Academy (AGA) from this September until July 2026 to finish her military training. People in the town, including officials and local businesses, are excited and hope her stay will bring more attention and tourists to the area.

Princess Leonor has already visited the academy a couple of times, in 2014 and again in 2023, and now she’ll live and train there. She will learn everything she needs to become the first Princess of Asturias to become a pilot in the Air Force. Her training will include lessons, flying simula-

tors, and actual flights in a Pilatus PC-21 plane. She’ll have a flight instructor and two roommates with her while she’s there.

The mayor of San Javier, José Miguel Luengo, called this a ‘historic moment’ and said it’s a great chance to show off the town. The town plans to give her the Gold Medal and name her an Adopted Daughter of San Javier, just like they did for King Felipe.

The president of the Murcia region, Fernando López Miras, said the academy is one of the best in the world. He’s sure Princess Leonor’s time there will help more people discover the warm hospitality and culture of Murcia.

San Javier welcomes princess.

Image: X/ @CasaReal

NEWS Travel

Brihuega - Lavender fields and historic sights

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

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

Exploring Brihuega

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

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

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

Lavender fields

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

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

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

Food and drink

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

SUMMARY

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

Fairground accident

. Credit: neme_jimenez, Shutterstock

A TWO-YEAR-OLD girl has died, and three other children injured after suffering electric shocks at a fairground ride in Alquerías, Murcia, in the early hours of Sunday, June 15.

Summer bus service

SINCE Friday, June 13, the new summer bus line 12 BUS PLAYA has been running, connecting Cartagena directly with the popular beaches of Cala Cortina and El Portús.

This year, the city council improved the service by adding two separate routes: one exclusively to Cala Cortina and another to El Portús. Buses clearly display their beach destination on their signs. This change increases the frequency of trips to Cala Cortina, which accounts for 75 per cent of the line’s users.

The service will continue until September 14 with these schedules:

For Cala Cortina, buses leave Cartage-

na from 9.00am to 8.30pm at regular intervals. Return trips start at 9.30am from Cala Cortina. The route passes through key stops such as Plaza María Cristina, Alameda de San Antón, and Paseo del Muelle.

For El Portús, buses leave Cartagena between 10.30am and 7.30pm. Return trips from El Portús start at 11.00am and run until 8.00pm. Stops include Hospital del Rosell, Paseo Alfonso XIII, and RME21.

This service makes it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy Cartagena’s beaches throughout the summer season. For the full schedule, see Cartagena.es.

Together for MABS

In addition to the deceased girl, three other children - an eight-yearold girl and two boys aged 11 and 12 - were also injured in the same incident.

All three showed signs of electrocution and were

According to national reports, the tragic incident occurred just after midnight during the town’s patron saint festivities. The girl was on a trampoline when she received an electric shock and was rendered unconscious. Emergency services attempted resuscitation for over an hour, but at 1.16am she was tragically pronounced dead.

taken to hospital by their families.

The attraction where the shock occurred was part of the temporary setup for the town’s summer festivities, in a community of around 6,000 residents.

The death has sparked concern over the safety of temporary fairground rides across Spain, particularly during festival season.

THE local community has shown great support for MABS Cancer Support Foundation in San Javier once more, helping cancer patients across the region with donations and fundraising.

Karen and Liz, known as the Santiago Sisters, raised an amazing €2,060.23 by walking part of the Camino de Santiago. Their hard work and dedication have made a big difference for the charity, which provides counselling, transla-

tors, equipment, drivers, and complementary therapy to those affected by cancer.

Also pitching in was the Las Terrazas de La Torre Community, which raised €650 during a coffee and cake afternoon. The event was a hit, with plenty of delicious cakes and generous donations from everyone who came along.

These contributions help MABS continue offe-

ring the support cancer patients need during difficult times. The charity shop in San Javier also benefits from this community spirit.

It’s clear that local people really care and are willing to go the extra mile to help others. MABS offered their thanks to everyone involved in these fundraising efforts; your generosity makes a real difference.

A similar trampoline attraction to the one where the incident took place.

COSTA CALIDA

Kinita Restaurant Dance Party

A SPECIAL dance party fundraiser is set for Saturday, June 28, to support PAPS, a dog rescue shelter in Spain. The event will begin at 8.00pm at Play Bar, located at Av. de la Libertad 301, Los Alcazares, Murcia.

PAPS works hard to rescue, care for, and find new homes for stray dogs at their shelter, Casa del Sol. This event is to raise funds to help continue their important work.

The night will feature dance teacher Lotta Lotusflower and Aaron Lanney, who will teach groovy disco moves and provide live music. Attendees can enjoy dancing, music, and take part in an exciting raffle.

Tickets cost €15 and must be purchased in

advance due to limited space. Please note that tickets are non-refundable. Everyone is welcome to join, whether you come with friends or partners. For ticket purchases and more information, contact Lotta on +34 634 132 864, Elaine on +34

711 069 906, or Jacqui on +34 680 145 593 via WhatsApp only. Come out to dance for a cause and help support abandoned dogs in need at PAPS. Your participation will make a difference in the lives of many rescued dogs.

KINITA RESTAURANT

& Beach Club in Los Alcazares is one of those pla- ces you’ll want to return to again and again. Set right on the edge of the Mar Menor, it’s the kind of spot where good food, sea views, and a laidback atmosphere all come together.

The menu leans into fresh Mediterranean flavours, with a good mix of savoury and sweet options. Dishes are made with quality ingredients, and you can really taste the difference.

Whether you’re after a full lunch, a light dinner, or just something to share with friends, there’s plenty of choice. The desserts are also worth mentioning, they’re just as carefully made and great to finish on.

There’s a solid drinks menu too, with cocktails, smoothies, and cold beers served from morning to sunset. The chill-out

area, now open for the summer, is the perfect place to sit back with a drink and take in the sea breeze.

Kinita also offers space for events, from weddings and christenings to casual brunches, yoga sessions, or small business meetings. The staff are friendly and happy to help you plan.

It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a place to eat, relax, and enjoy life by the water.

How to Reserve

Location: Just before Camping Mar Menor, 30720 Los Alcazares, Murcia Phone: 674 112 306

Website: kinitarestaurant.com

Area: Located right by the Mar Menor with sea views

Live Music

GET ready for a night of punk rock energy as The Dead Francos take the stage at The Island Pub in Lo Pagán on June 28 at 9.00pm. Known for their gritty style and crowd-pleasing attitude, the band will deliver over 30 covers from classic punk and rock legends, blasting out guitar-heavy anthems that’ll get everyone on their feet.

This isn’t just a gig, it’s a full-blown punk party. Expect a great atmosphere, ice-cold drinks, and a great crowd ready to let loose. The Island Pub, a favourite local hangout, provides the perfect

backdrop for a summer night of live music, with its friendly staff keeping the drinks and the good times flowing.

Whether you’re a diehard punk fan or just looking for a fun night out, this is the place to

be. Bring your mates, grab a drink, and get ready to pogo the night away.

No need to book, just show up and join the fun. But come early if you want to grab a good spot!

Image: Facebook: Kinita Restaurant & Beach Club

Dance the night away.

Rock out in Lo Pagán.

Image: Facebook/ Dead Francos

Seaside dining, unforgettable moments.

Labels warn of crisis

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

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

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

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

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

Madrid commuter rail

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

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

The second phase, from July 19 to August

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

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

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

Credit: Jupiterimages from Photo Images via Canva.com

Atocha Cercanías.

Credit: dimbar76, Shutterstock

Iberian lynx population rebounds

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

In 2002, numbers had dropped to fewer than 100, with some estimates as low as 52. The decline was driven by habitat loss, hunting, road deaths, and a collapse in the European rabbit population - its main prey.

Through captive breeding, habitat restoration, rabbit population recovery, and EU-backed reintroductions under the LIFE LynxConnect programme, lynx numbers have multiplied nearly 24-

Planes vs planet

lynx and Portugal 354, threats remain. Road

lynx and Portugal 354, including 1,557 adults and 470 breeding females - 64 more than in 2023. Some 844 cubs were born in 2024. The species now breeds in 17 areas, including new territories in Murcia and Castilla y Leon.

The IUCN reclassi ed the lynx as ‘Vulnerable’ in

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

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

BARCELONA has reignited the clash between economic ambition and climate pledges. On June 10, Catalan president Salvador Illa unveiled a controversial plan to expand El Prat airport. Environmentalists call it a betrayal; business leaders hail it as progress. The European Commission is now reviewing the proposal. The expansion plan includes runway extensions and increased flight capacity, aimed at boosting Barcelona’s global profile, especially for events like the Mobile World Congress. But the project revives concerns over La Ricarda, a protected wetland already at the centre of a prior blocked expansion.

Environmental groups accuse Illa of climate denial, warning the plan undermines Spain’s commitments

amid worsening droughts and heatwaves. Protests are being organised across Catalonia, with activists saying Barcelona risks becoming a symbol of climate hypocrisy.

The European Commission may ultimately block the plan if it violates environmental laws, especially since the La Ricarda case remains unresolved. Brussels has the authority to intervene under EU protections for natural heritage. Supporters argue a bigger airport strengthens Barcelona’s global standing. Critics warn it risks setting back climate goals.

Spain stands at a crossroadstorn between building for growth and delivering on environmental promises. Whichever way the plan goes, the message will resonate far beyond the runway.

Illegal flat activity

THE Lloret de Mar City Hall in Costa Brava has fined 23 illegal tourist flats €20,000 each. This marks the first wide-scale issuing of fines since Lloret de Mar’s new plan, Lloret Acts, was put into motion.

The plan, which is carried out by municipal tourist flat inspectors and Local Police, aims to regulate tourist flat rentals and diminish unfair play when it comes to renting to tourists, as Lloret de Mar is one of Spain’s most popular ho-

liday destinations.

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

The fines issued depend on several criteria, including the profits obtained by the infractor, whether the infractor was deliberately decei-

tful when operating the property, and the social impact of the property itself.

In light of the fines, the mayor of Lloret de Mar, Adrià Lamelas, reiterated the City Hall’s goal of ‘a legal, orderly, and respectful tourism model’. This comes amid a stern crackdown from many communities of Spain that have seen an exponential increase of tourism in the past years, and with it, an increase in illegal tourism-related activity.

This recovery is now cited as a model for endangered species management in Europe.

Photo credits: Jorge Guerrero/Getty Images

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

Credit: Shane Aldendorff from Pexels via Canva.com

Heartbreak at the gate Depp and Cruz

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

Despite her bag fitting vertically, she was told she

had to pay or be denied boarding.

Díaz, who had paid €285 for a one-way ticket from Brussels to Asturias, said she was trying to get there urgently before her grandfather passed away. After agreeing to pay the fee, she was later told the gate had closed and that she had refused to pay, a claim she says was false and recorded incorrectly by staff. She was left unable to board, missing both the flight and the chance

to say goodbye. Díaz criticised RyanAir for lacking customer support and highlighted EU proposals that could grant airlines more freedom over luggage fees, potentially causing more confusion and similar incidents.

The video has gone viral with over eight million views, drawing widespread sympathy but also scepticism about RyanAir’s role. RyanAir has not issued an official response.

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

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

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

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

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

Their connection reportedly grew during international film festivals throughout 2024.

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

Credit: Museo

Reina Sofia

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

Photo

Credit: Tom via Pixabay

Animal injustice

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

GERMANY IRELAND

Wild chase

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

EURO PRESS

Child support

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

Tackling toxicity

FRANCE will show the British Netflix series

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

Dignity defended

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

PORTUGAL NETHERLANDS ITALY

Seabed clean-up

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

ID fraud

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

NORWAY

Green innovation

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

Arctic damage

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

FRANCE DENMARK

Historic rebuild

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

Data insights

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

Grid delay

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

Biting costs

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

FINLAND SWEDEN

Production pivot

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

Time’s up

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

Secret summit

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

Swimsuit smuggler

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

Luxury lift

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

Mega project

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

BELGIUM

Wildlife shield

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

Media literacy

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

Credit: Shutterstock / New Africa

Is charging for hand luggage a step too far? VOICE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

AI fraud spike

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

L’Oréal purchase

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

China–Spain ties

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

Abacum Series B

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

OfI revamp

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

STAT OF WEEK

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

Growth forecast cut

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

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

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

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

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

growth could shrink by another 0.4 percentage points.

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

Escrivá also addressed the resig-

Startup raises €189m

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

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

CEO Enrique Lizaso Olmos said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deficit drop Spending review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Footballers in €3m crypto scam

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

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

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

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

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

Governor José Luis Escrivá.

Multiverse.

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

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

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

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

B&M European Value Retail SA

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

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

Beazley 921,5 927,5 918,5 51,38K

Berkeley 4.254,00 4.280,00 4.246,00 4,14K

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

BUSINESS

EXTRA

VodafoneThree 5G

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

Summer hotel staff

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

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

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

BBVA ranks in US

Freixenet deal

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

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

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

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

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

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

Snap UK leader

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

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

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

BBVA, Houston, Texas.

Credit: Brett Hondow, Shutterstock.

Way to earn respect

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

advertisers or sponsors.

World’s oldest restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inside the Sobrino de Botín restaurant.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Emergency service boost

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

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

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

Axarquia Safest beaches plan

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

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

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

Mallorca Cancer charity donates

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

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

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

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

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

Costa Blanca South Alicante eyes US

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

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

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

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

Almeria

Cuevas summer sparkles

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

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

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

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

Costa Blanca North From Alfas to the Everest

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

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

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

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

€1.14 billion investment

NETFLIX co-CEO Ted Sarandos has announced plans to invest more than US $1 billion (approximately €1.14 billion) in Spain over the next four years. The announcement was made on June 10 at Netflix’s European Production Hub in Tres Cantos, Madrid, marking the company’s 10th anniversary in Spain.

Sarandos was joined by Netflix’s VP of content for Spain, Portugal, and Turkey, the Spanish minister for digital transformation Óscar López, and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Sánchez has supported Spain’s growth in the audiovisual sector through the ‘Spain Audiovisual Hub’ plan, launched in 2021, which has already channelled US $1.8 billion into the industry.

INTERVIEW

Spanish productions have become a global success. In 2024 alone, Spanish content generated over five billion hours of global viewing, with eight titles ranked among Netflix’s top 10 non-English language hits. Series like Money Heist, Cable Girls, and Elite, and films such as the Oscar-winning Society of the Snow, were filmed at the Tres Cantos base - the EU’s largest, with 10 sound stages over 22,000 square metres. Netflix has produced over 1,000 Spanish titles since 2017, creating more than 20,000 jobs in over 200 locations. Sarandos praised Spain’s creative environment and said Netflix remains committed to deepening its partnership with the country.

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

SCOTT first discovered Vejer de la Frontera through a school exchange trip. “I came with my students and didn’t expect much,” he says. “But the people, the sunshine, and the relaxed way of life flows here stayed with me. It felt like how life should be.” After two more visits, he was sure this was the place to call home.

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

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

Foreign passports

AS Europe grapples with a broad and often divisive debate over immigration, Spain stands out as a rare example of a country reaping the benefits of a more open and inclusive approach.

While some nations tighten their borders, Spain - currently enjoying the most promising economic outlook in the EU - has chosen to allow migrants to settle legally and contribute to society through their work and skills.

A key reflection of this policy is Spain’s continued recognition of historical responsibilities and the rights of descendants of political exiles. By the end of 2024, the Spanish government had granted nationality to more than 288,000 descendants of Spaniards who were forced into exile during the Franco dic -

tatorship. These measures were taken under the Democratic Memory Law, which provides a legal path to citizenship for the children and grandchildren of those who lost their nationality due to persecution or exile. This provision will remain in force until October this year.

Foreign minister José Manuel Albares shared these figures during a

press conference following the Council of Ministers on Tuesday June 10, presenting the annual consular report. According to Albares, Spanish consulates worldwide had received over 609,000 applications by the end of 2024. Of those, 288,000 had already been approved and 180,000 had been officially recorded in the Civil Registry.

Yet, the move brought its challenges. “Our first six months involved frustrating bureaucracy,” Liesl admits. “It often felt like chasing a moving target, the paperwork is not easy.” Language has also been a learning curve. “You really need Spanish,” Scott says. “But people here are kind and want you to belong.”

Now, almost settled, they feel the change has been worth it. “We wanted our child to grow up in a place that reflects who we are - energetic, open, maybe a little wild,” Liesl laughs. “Spain fits perfectly.” Their story echoes that of many families searching for a new rhythm here in Spain -

Molly Grace

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

Credits: Molly Grace

Both parties seem satisfied with the ambitious business venture.

Credit: Venti Views via Unsplash

This provision will remain in force until October 2025.

Credit: Justit /Shutterstock.com

IKEA recalls garlic press

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

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

Customers can still return the product even if the date stamp is unclear or missing. No receipt is required.

The problem was found during an internal investigation. A production defect could cause metal fragments to come loose, posing a risk if ingested. IKEA responded by removing the item from sale and informing the public through a press release on June 11.

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

resold.

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

ProductRecalls.

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

It’s

raining money!

ANÍBAL PINTO, a lawyer and sports commentator, has officially launched his campaign for Porto City Council in dramatic style. At the end of a speech outside Porto City Hall, a drone released dozens of real €5 notes over a crowd of supporters. The stunt surprised onlookers and quickly made headlines. Pinto described the money drop as a ‘gesture of happiness’ and promised it would be repeated throughout his campaign.

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

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

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

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

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

Zaragoza: From Caesar to cathedrals and a bit of Goya

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

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

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

gossa’, gained eternal fame - and a shout-out from Lord Byron in his poem ‘Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage’. Zaragoza boasts the grand Gothic La Seo Cathedral and the majestic Pilar Basilica, built on the spot where the Virgin Mary appeared according to legend in CE 40. You’ll also find Goya’s brushwork there.

Don’t miss the Aljafería Palace - an Islamic architectural gem - or the stately Renaissance palaces peppering the city.

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

So, put on your walking shoes and get exploring!

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IKEA’s 365+ VÄRDEFULL garlic press.

Credit: IKEA

Strawberry mug craze

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

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

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

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

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

Alternative Facebook

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

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

Unlike Facebook or Instagram, this new Danish platform doesn’t track users or sell data. Everything is stored in Denmark and the EU, including the powerful Computerome supercomputer. The content users see is based on their municipality, encouraging real-life discussions between neighbours, associations,

and local businesses.

Meningspunktet is free for citizens, while companies can pay to advertise locally. This hyperlocal model supports community engagement and small business growth.

Despite its grassroots approach, the platform is gaining attention as part of a broader Scandinavian push to rethink social media. Norway’s Hudd recently hit 120,000 users in six months.

Norwegian artists follow Taylor Swift

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

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

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

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

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

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

“All the music I created now belongs to me,” she wrote on her website.

Halstensen says this development has resonated strongly within Norway’s music community. According to several music industry bodies - including Tono, Gramart and Nopa - there is a clear trend: more artists in Norway are seeking to retain ownership of their own work.

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

Karls’ iconic strawberry mugs.

Image: Facebook/Karls Erlebnis-Dorf

Fine features

A CAT’S whiskers are more than just cute facial features - they’renely tuned sensory tools essential to their daily life.

These specialised hairs, known as vibrissae, are deeply embedded in the skin and packed with nerves, allowing cats to detect even the slightest changes in their environment.

Surprisingly, cats don’t just have whiskers on their muzzle. They also appear above the eyes, on the chin, and even on the backs of their front legs. Whiskers help judge tight

Shutterstock / McLey

spaces, detect movement, and maintain balance.

They can also re ect mood - forward-facing whiskers often mean a cat is curious or hunting, while attened ones signal fear or aggression. Each whisker is precisely spaced to match the width of the cat’s body, aiding navigation in darkness. Trimming whiskers can disorient a cat, so they should never be cut. Even more fascinating, whiskers can pick up air vibrations, making them excellent tools for hunting. In short, whiskers are vital, not decorative.

Cats stay safe at home with the cat-sitter

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Sandra Barton, cat owner HouseSitMatch saves you money We promote collaborative exchange through our managed online system - free accommodation for free pet care! It’s a real win win! HouseSitMatch is safe - all mem-

Patsy and Eddie are great companions, and love a cat-sitter when their owner travels away.

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

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Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed

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

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

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Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then house-sitters build a profile and homeowners build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose.

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Shear dilemma

WITH temperatures rising, many dog owners consider giving their furry friend a summer trim to keep them cool. But is cutting a dog’s hair the best way to beat the heat? Surprisingly, a dog’s fur is more than just a coat; it acts as a natural insulator, protecting them from both heat and cold.

Double coated breeds like Golden Retrievers and Huskies rely on their undercoat to regulate temperature, meaning that shaving can actually disrupt their ability to stay cool. Instead of helping, it may expose their skin to sunburn or insect bites.

Even single coated breeds benefit from the barrier their fur provides against the suns rays.

Regular grooming, including brushing to remove dead hair and prevent matting, is often more effective than cutting or shaving. This allows air to circulate, keeping your dog comfortable during warm weather. Ultimately, while a trim might be fine for certain breeds, it’s always wise to consult your vet or groomer to understand what’s best for your dog’s individual needs.

Licking logic

IT’S a common question among dog owners: why does your dog lick you, and what does it mean? Licking is a natural canine behaviour that can serve multiple purposes, and yes, it can be a sign of affection. Puppies often lick their mother’s face to communicate and seek comfort, and this behaviour can carry over into adulthood. When your dog licks you, it’s often their way of showing love, seeking attention, or even trying to comfort you. However, licking can also be linked to anxiety or a desire for taste - perhaps you’ve got some intriguing food residue on your skin. For some owners, constant licking can become a bit too much. To gently discourage the behaviour, try redirecting their attention with toys or a game. Avoid punishing them, as this can cause confusion and anxiety. Instead, reinforce calm behaviour with praise or treats when they stop licking. If the licking seems excessive or obsessive, a vet check is a good idea to rule out any underlying medical or behavioural issues.

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Renault 4 E-Tech electric - reinvention of original

THE Renault 4 E-Tech electric, a modern

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

reinvention of the iconic original, will be priced from £26,995 OTR when order books open here in the UK in July.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DGT plans to ban cars circulating with just one person

cupant, 20 Minutos reported.

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

In fact, late last year,

Spain’s traffic chief, Pere Navarro, delivered a wake-up call that cuts to the bone of modern driving habits. Speaking at Madrid’s Global Mobility Call, he said bluntly that “the future of cars will be shared or will not be.” The sentiment isn’t fluff. Navarro points to a startling statistic: 85 per cent of cars hitting city roads during rush hour are carrying just one person.

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

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

Paying fines at a cashpoint

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

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

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

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

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

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

Always keep the receipt.

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

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

Credit : Juan Carlos L. Ruiz, Shutterstock

Credits: Shutterstock - 240

Ballon d’Or finalists

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

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

The award remains wide open, with

three frontrunners: Yamal, Dembélé, and Kylian Mbappé.

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

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

Hamilton looking for ‘sweet spot’

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

Hamilton’s switch from Mercedes to Ferrari last season raised high expectations, but results have been modest. He secured a sprint win in China and a third-place finish in Miami’s sprint race, yet consistently has missed out on podiums.

Sitting sixth in the drivers’ standings with 71 points, he trails teammate Char les Leclerc by 23 points, who has earned three po diums in the last five races.

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

need for a defining result in Canada.

“It looks a lot worse outside than it is on the inside,” he said, emphasising efforts to refine the SF-25 car’s setup.

He noted constructive discussions with engineers to find its ‘sweet spot’, adapting his 18 years of experience to Ferrari’s methods.

Despite challenges, Hamilton is optimistic for a strong Montreal weekend, where he has historically excelled, indicating that Ferrari’s internal progress may soon bring results on

Speaking at a press conference, Hamilton rejected the

Leinster dominate

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

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

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

A key moment came

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

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

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

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

Lewis Hamilton wearing the Ferrari shield.

Credit: Jay HiranoShutterstock.