Costa Calida 1 - 7 October 2026 Issue 2152

Costa Cálida I No. 2152 I 1 - 7 October 2026 I FREE Newspaper D.L. MU 74-2025 - ISSN 3045-6703

Antiques and autos IFEPA, an event venue in Torre Pacheco, Murcia, recently closed out a smash hit double event: the 23rd edition of the Antiques and RetroAuto show, which this year saw nearly 14,000 visitors. The event, a combination of an antiques fair and a vintage vehicle showcase, saw more than 40,000 antique pieces and more than 200 classic and vintage vehicles united over the three days of the event. IFEPA, the Palace of Fairs and Exhibitions of the Region of Murcia, was the meeting point for lovers of unique antique pieces, collecting, decoration, restoration and classic vehicles at the

Photo Credit: IFEPA

THOUSANDS OF VISITORS ENJOY MASSIVE TORRE PACHECO ANTIQUES SHOW

Antiques and classic vehicles event draws thousands to Torre Pacheco.

end of September, with the event gathering thousands of visitors and garnering interest from all over the Region of Murcia and beyond. Taking visitors through a journey of different eras

and styles, IFEPA became a wonderland of curiosities, collectibles, and vehicles, bringing hobbyists and the general public closer to the cultural, industrial, and social reality of the last few decades.

The antiques portion of the event featured nearly 100 exhibitors from both Spain and France with tens of thousands of pieces, each with its own unique history and charm. The selection of vintage and

Seaside showcase RESIDENTS and visitors in the Costa Calida town of Los Alcazares were treated to a special programme of activities as the town celebrated World Tourism Day with a series of experiences to showcase its fun offerings, unique charm, and coastal beauty. One of the standout attractions was an idyllic boat trip across the Mar Menor, giving participants the chance to appreciate the famed lagoon’s calm waters and scenic surroundings from a new perspective. Additionally, a guided visit to the San Javier Air Academy opened the doors to an important part of the region’s heritage. Here, visitors learned

Photo Credit: Los Alcazares Town Hall

LOS ALCAZARES CELEBRATES WORLD TOURISM DAY WITH PACKED PROGRAMME

Los Alcazares celebrates tourism day with culture, nature and activities

about the famed air base in which Leonor, Princess

of Asturias, carried out her military training.

For those interested in creative events, a unique nighttime art safari took participants through the town’s streets to discover murals and urban art. Finally, the programme also included a paddle yoga session on the Mar Menor, allowing participants to connect with Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, a deep source of pride for Los Alcazares and surrounding towns.

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retro items included furniture, decorative objects, works of art, books, toys, porcelain, lamps, clocks, collectibles, and more. On the other hand, RetroAuto, a Classic and Antique Vehicle Show, was a “museum on wheels,” according to IFEPA. The show united more than 200 classic and vintage vehicles, including cars, trucks and motorcycles of different eras and models. Local clubs and associations passionate about the world of antique vehicles also participated. One such association was

the Murcian Association of Friends of the Railway, which presented several railway models and brought the evolution of this mode of transport, as well as their passion for it, closer to the public. The event was a smash success, seeing 12 per cent more participation than in the previous edition. Classic vehicle fans, history buffs, and curious newcomers in Torre Pacheco left the event even more knowledgeable and excited about this fascinating and widely celebrated hobby.

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Flying frenzy ONCE more, Mazarron has taken centre stage on the international sporting scene after successfully hosting the Hydro-Fly World Championship at its marina during the end of September, drawing elite riders and large crowds over three action-packed days. Held at the Puerto Deportivo from Thursday, September 24, to Saturday, September 26, the competition united athletes from across the globe, including Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Poland, France and Spain. The waters of Mazarron provided the perfect setting for the thrilling, high-adrenaline sport, with spectators lining the marina throughout the weekend to catch a glimpse of the gravity-defying spectacle. The largest crowds gathered on Saturday, when the semi-finals and finals took place, delivering a thrilling finale to the championship. Riders soared above the water using hydro-powered jet systems, showcasing skill, balance and precision in front of an enthusiastic audience of locals and visitors. In the Pro men’s category, Jeff Gazzola, from France, was crowned world champion, pulling off an impressive performance against strong international competition. In second place was Robert Yaszczold, and in third place was Rodrigo Delgado, both of whom also featured among the top competitors in other categories.

Photo Credit: Mazarron Town Hall

Mazarron hosts Hydro-Fly championship with global riders and big crowds.

In the women’s competition, Mirella Kalashnikova secured the gold, with Martyna Irene Szczygiel placing second and Elena Vera placing third.

LO PAGAN will host a special event at the beginning of October that will unite three Michelin-starred chefs on the shining coastline in a mouth-watering programme. The fifth edition of 'Salty Paradise' will take place from Friday, October 2, to Sunday, October 4, and is set to combine showcooking, haute cuisine tastings, workshops, and live entertainment in an event that will charm foodies and curious newcomers alike. For years, the annual event has become an important part of Lo Pagan’s autumn calendar, and is the perfect opportunity for the town to showcase its traditional, local Mar Menor cuisine. The main attraction of the event will be the incredible talent present: Michelin-starred chefs Juan Guillamón, Jesús Segura, and Juan Monteagudo will take centre stage at the showcase to demonstrate their remarkable cooking.

LOCAL NEWS

Photo Credit: Almo by Juan Guillamón

Michelin-starred Murcian chef Juan Guillamón.

Tasty talent Aside from the dazzling chefs, the event will also feature a large tapas area where various local and regional establishments will offer their delicious food to attendees. Murcia’s local chefs will also have their spotlight, with a showcase dedicated only to talents from the region and the Costa Calida, where the chefs

will present their cooking and perform live demonstrations. Finally, the little ones in attendance will also have their chance to shine with the Mini Gourmet Zone, an area dedicated to cooking workshops for children, guided tours of the salt flats, and family-friendly live performances.

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NEWS

1 - 7 October 2026

Hidden extras

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Bathroom accessibility How to claim support

Credit: Mehaniq - Shutterstockjpg

CHECK YOUR BILL

Credit: sweet_tomato / Shutterstock

Turning your bath into a walk-in shower? Spain could cover 80 per cent of the bill.

Hidden added extras can raise your bills.

EXPATRIATES in Spain could be paying for an extra electricity or gas service every month without realising it. Energy adviser Álex Bermúdez has warned households that maintenance and assistance packages attached to their contracts can cost more than €100 a year for unwanted or unnoticed services. Spain’s energy regulator, the CNMC, confirms that bills may contain separately charged extras such as installation maintenance, home insurance, and legal assistance. These payments must be listed separately under head-

ings like ‘Servicios y otros conceptos’, ‘Servicios adicionales’, or ‘Mantenimiento’. Terms to look out for include asistencia, reparaciones, urgencias, and seguro. While small monthly fees of €7.99 to €12.50 may seem minor, they quickly accumulate to annual costs between €95.88 and €150. Recent consumer complaints lodged with the OCU in June and September 2026 highlight cases where customers claimed additional services were added without informed consent. Consumers are advised to review their latest energy

bills and check original contracts for renewal conditions or cancellation penalties. Bermúdez suggests cross-checking existing home insurance policies, as they may already cover emergency repairs. However, residents should compare policy limits before cancelling any package, as older boilers or specific electrical systems might still benefit from dedicated cover. To help decipher complex bills, residents can use the CNMC’s free ‘Entiende tu factura’ online tool via the QR code printed on their statement.

DISABLED residents adapting their bathroom in Spain could get up to €18,000 towards the cost. The figure comes from the state housing plan the government approved back in April, and it only covers work that genuinely improves accessibility, rather than a general makeover. Homes can claim 80 per cent of the eligible cost, capped at €15,000 where a resident has a recognised disability of 33 per cent or more, rising to €18,000 at 65 per cent or above. Covered work includes turning a bath into a walk-in shower, widening doorways, and fitting grab rails, ramps and non-slip flooring. New tiles or fittings just for the aesthetic don’t count. The home usually needs to predate 2006, be the applicant’s main residence, and a professional must certify the work meets the country’s accessibility standards. Applications must also go through each autonomous community’s own call, however not every region has one open yet. So anyone hoping to use this grant should check with their regional housing department before planning any work around it, rather than assuming the money is there to claim immediately.

Credit: Wikkiq / Shutterstock

Waiting for answers AUTONOMO QUOTAS IN LIMBO MILLIONS of autonomos (self-employed workers) in Spain still don’t know what they’ll be paying into Social Security from January, with the government yet to agree a contribution table for 2027. Talks between the ministry and self-employed associations and unions have stalled for months, despite barely three months of 2026 remaining. Autonomos association ATA wants any rise capped at inflation, while another says negotiations “cannot continue to be postponed.” One change is already locked in regardless: a pension top-up charge is rising from 0.9 to 1.0 per cent, a minor change that could add somewhere between around 65 cents and just over €5 a month.

But the bracket system that decides most of what an autonomo actually pays, currently running from around €205 to €1,606 a month, has no 2027 figures yet. Improvements to sick leave, parental leave and unemployment-style protection for the self-employed are tied to the same stalled talks, along with the bill facing more than 26,000 British autonomos now working in Spain. Until the ministry and the associations meet again, the safest bet for any autonomo is to budget for 2027 using the numbers already confirmed and loosely based on an increment to this year’s figures.

Spain’s autonomos still don’t know what they’ll owe in Social Security from January 2027.

euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.

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1 - 7 October 2026

THE San Javier Tourism Department has launched a programme of free guided tours of the Mar Menor, scheduled throughout October, November, and one day in December. The first tour, which launched in late September, saw great success, with all one hundred available slots filled for the one and a half hour ride. During the tour, a guide explained over the vessel’s PA system the history of the San Javier General Air and Space Academy, a famed military centre in which Leonor, Princess of Asturias, carried out much of her military training. As the journey continued to the centre of Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, the

Lagoon lookout Helping Hands Photo Credit: San Javier Town Hall

Free Mar Menor tours return with autumn dates and strong demand.

guide continued explaining interesting facts about the surrounding natural features, as well as the history of La Manga. The tour crossed the Estacio bridge and re-

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turned to the Mar Menor towards the area of the fish weirs, the ancient fishing art, where the guests learned about its fascinating historical heritage. These tours are set to be repeated on Fridays, on October 2 and 16, November 6 and 20, and December 4. Those interested in taking part in these free and fascinating heritage, history, and nature boat tours should reserve their spot in advance at the San Javier Tourist Office, by calling T. 968 573 700 ext. 5126, or via email at turismo@sanjavi er.es.

EVERY day, Helping Hands works to give unwanted animals a second chance, helping them find safe, caring and loving homes. Whether they are large or small, young or old, the charity is dedicated to making a difference. To support their mission, Helping Hands runs a second-hand charity shop in Aguilas. Located at Calle Doctor Flemming 3, near the blue medical centre, the shop is packed with Donate to give a helping hand to Helping Hands. donated treasures and is always looking for more. Household items, bric-a-brac, ing unwanted possessions into cash. clothes, shoes and furniture are all A charity auction will take place on gratefully accepted. Saturday, October 10, at Bar Pizzeria Had a clear out recently? Don’t Palpicotea, Centro de Pulpi. Viewing throw away items you no longer want begins at 12 noon, with the auction at or need, donate to Helping Hands and 2pm. Of every completed sale, 10 per make a difference. For larger items, cent will go directly to Helping Hands. Helping Hands can arrange collec- Items for sale must be delivered by tions and house clearances. Simply 10am. call 634 456 701 to find out more. To enter an item, call 634 456 701. Or And there’s another opportunity simply come along, grab a bargain and to support the charity while turn- support a great cause.

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LOCAL NEWS

Rent help for under-35s Credit: CARM / Comunicación Región de Murcia

Fernando López Miras. Help with the rent could be on the way for Murcia’s under-35s.

YOUNG renters in the Region de Murcia could get up to €300 a month towards their rent under a new €16 million scheme announced by regional president Fernando López Miras. The aid is aimed at around 2,300 people aged 35 and under and should help cover almost two years of rent during 2026 and 2027, which means up to €7,200 each. Those renting a room rather

than a whole home can get up to €200 a month. López Miras called it “a historic call for aid” and said it will open before the end of the year. The full rules haven’t been published yet. However, the region’s last youth rent scheme in 2025 was open to foreigners with legal residence in Spain, so British tenants with a valid TIE (foreigner’s identity card) are likely to qualify too. Ap-

plicants will need to show their rental contract and then send in proof they’ve paid their rent to receive the money. With 2026 included, it’s worth keeping every rent receipt from this year and making sure your padrón (town hall registration) is up to date, so you’re ready to apply as soon as the call opens.

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Paella & purpose

LOCAL NEWS

Wildlife win

Photo Credit: Mario Pérez Cervera / Facebook

Photo Credit: Rory Tucker / Unsplash

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Los Alcazares Solidarity Paella unites community to support those in need.

LOS ALCAZARES recently celebrated the 10th edition of the Cáritas Solidarity Paella, an event that packed the local sports pavilion and brought together residents, visitors, friends, and neighbours in the venue for the much-loved community event, all with a clear purpose in mind: supporting those most in need. Once again, the charity and gastronomic event showcased the incredible generosity of the town, drawing a large crowd of people eager to contribute to the cause. Attendees

gathered to enjoy a traditional shared meal - a delicious and savoury paella - while also showing their support for the work carried out by Cáritas in the municipality, a non-profit organisation that focuses on helping vulnerable and excluded people in Los Alcazares and beyond. The event had a welcoming and lively atmosphere; volunteers were busy throughout the day, ensuring everything ran smoothly, from preparing and serving the paella to coordinating the fun activities in the

sports pavilion. Contributions made during the event went towards supporting Cáritas’ ongoing social initiatives, which provide assistance to individuals and families. Through a network of more than 2,500 volunteers, Cáritas has directly helped nearly 29,000 vulnerable people. As the day came to a close, there was a clear sense that the event had once again achieved its goal of bringing people together in support of a meaningful cause.

First barn owl chicks hatch in Calblanque conservation milestone achieved.

THE Calblanque Regional Park, located near the municipalities of Cartagena and La Union, has reached a major conservation milestone with the successful hatching of its first-ever recorded barn owl chicks. The arrival of these adorable owlets is being called a

significant success for local wildlife efforts by experts. The chicks were hatched in a nest box installed in the park as part of an environmental initiative. Launched with the support of animal- and nature-loving volunteers, the project had a goal of returning this species of owl to the protected natural area. Here, a pair of barn owls made their nest, and shortly afterwards, the chicks were welcomed into the world. This milestone is especially significant, since until now, there have been no documented cases of barn owl reproduction in the park, making this a breakthrough for conservation work. The chicks were immediately marked with rings for monitoring and research, and the data collected from their behaviour will help conservationists to better understand how the species operates in the Region of Murcia. During the event, the researchers also found a fascinating detail: the male owl was found to have been previously ringed in the wetlands of the Mar Menor last winter, offering an insight into the movement, range, and behaviour of this fascinating species.

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1 - 7 October 2026

Spain’s tequila boom Buyers now want to know who makes a bottle and how, he says. Madrid’s Chamartín station recently hosted the Piña Agavera festival, with more than 500 brands and about 3,500 visitors. Craft names are gaining ground. G4, from Jalisco, has grown production 94 per cent in just over two years. Cascahuin sends 60 per cent of its 800,000 litres to Mexico, yet Spain is already its second-biggest export market. Entremanos

ferments for up to 15 days, which is rare. Premium bottles thrive on the coast. At Mamzel, the Marbella restaurant with a dinner show, guests ordered more than 100,000 cocktails last year. Tequila and mez-

Photo credit: agsaz/Shutterstock

THE salt, lime and wince routine is fading for tequila, replaced by slower sipping in bars across Spain. More than seven million litres of tequila reached Spain last year, according to the Tequila Regulatory Council, up from about 4.5 million litres in 2021. El Pais reports that this makes Spain Europe’s biggest buyer and the world’s second, behind the United States. Big names such as Jose Cuervo, Don Julio and Patron paved the way, says Wilmer Yajamin, founder of distributor Entre Compas.

SPANISH NEWS

cal, another agave spirit, rank second only to vodka. Labels matter. Tequila must use blue Weber agave and comes as blanco (unaged), reposado (rested) or añejo (aged), among other classes. Credit: Valentyn Volkov / shutterstock

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Tequila consumption grows across Spain.

Galicia is now testing a different approach.

Health centre privacy DISCUSSING something personal at a busy health-centre reception can be uncomfortable when other patients are standing only metres away. Galicia is now testing a different approach, replacing traditional open reception counters with individual spaces

and glazed booths designed to give patients greater privacy. The Junta de Galicia is investing almost €1 million in the project across six health centres: Ordes, Os Rosales in A Coruña, Pontedeume, A Guarda, Monforte de Lemos and Virxe da Peregrina in Pontevedra. Work has already finished at Ordes and Os Rosales, while construction continues at the other sites. The changes are intended to make administrative conversations more confidential and reflect the increasingly important role of reception staff in patient care. Spain’s Patient Autonomy Law already recognises patients’ right to confidentiality regarding their health information, although the physical design of reception areas can make private conversations difficult. The Galician project does not mean reception counters are about to disappear throughout Spain. Healthcare is organised regionally, so other autonomous communities would have to decide whether to adopt similar designs. However, Galicia’s experiment could give other health services a practical model to examine if the new spaces improve patients’ experience of privacy.

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Supermarket savings

Credit: Pierre-Olivier/shutterstock

Little Spain, Big Apple Credit: Andrzej Rostek/shutterstock

EGGS and fish in Spain now cost far more than they did a year ago, and where shoppers buy them can make a real difference to the final bill. Recent price comparisons put Lidl narrowly ahead of Mercadona and Carrefour on a basic shopping list. A 10-item basket, including eggs, minced beef, chicken and vegetables, came to €23.21 at Lidl, €24.40 at Carrefour and €24.86 at Mercadona. A separate study of 20 own-brand products also found Lidl cheaper in nine out of 10 categories. Carrefour, however, beat Lidl on minced beef and matched it on cheese and bananas. Consumer group OCU’s latest index scores Lidl and Mercadona almost equally, with Carrefour only slightly higher. Eggs offer the clearest comparison. Carrefour sells a dozen medium eggs for €2.60, the cheapest of the three. Mercadona has held its

SPANISH NEWS

Little Spain in New York.

Save on your staples.

price at €2.85 since a cut in July, while Lidl matched that price after its own reduction in August. The gap between cheapest and priciest is just 25 cents. Fish prices have risen 7.8 per cent year-onyear. OCU found packaging pushes costs up sharply: whole bream cost €8.95–

€9.95 per kilo, against €22.49–€23.95 for fillets, a mark-up of around 27 per cent once waste is factored in. Mixing shops between chains, rather than sticking to one, may offer the best savings as food prices rise 33.9 per cent over four years.

MANHATTAN has brought back a slice of its Spanish past, after one woman spent four years fighting to put “Little Spain” back on the map. Michelle Miron grew up in Brooklyn hearing stories about a Spanish corner of Manhattan that has almost vanished. Her Galician father told her of the dances, restaurants and community spirit that once filled West 14th Street, nicknamed “Calle Catorce.” At its peak, around 30,000 Spaniards lived in this small patch of the West Side, home to restaurants including Café Madrid and La Bilbaína, and shops selling paella pans and Spanish magazines. Working at La Nacional, the oldest Spanish cultural organisation in the US, Miron

heard countless memories from former residents. “Almost nobody knows the story of Spanish immigration to New York,” she said. That realisation sparked a campaign to give the corner of West 14th Street and Eighth Avenue an honorary co-naming. Progress was slow. Every signature had to come from a verified local resident, and Miron’s first attempt at collecting them stalled badly. Petitions later moved online, though strict deadlines meant a single slip could have ended the effort. In January, Manhattan Community Board 4 backed the plan unanimously. Now, a new sign reading “Little Spain–La Nacional Way” honours those who built the community, and keeps its culture alive.

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12 1 - 7 October 2026

EUROPRESS

Last one laughing Rare mug, huge price

party-favour. Those who inhale the gas experience a short but euphoric high. For 10 to 30 seconds, users lose almost complete touch with reality, and it’s precisely this that poses such a threat. What’s more,

laughing gas may look and sound innocent enough, but can still become addictive. Heavy use can lead to nerve damage, vitamin deficiencies, even paralysis. Some users have also reported frostbite injuries. Recreational use was banned in Belgium two years ago. Anyone caught in possession faces fines up to €500. But the criminalisation hasn’t done much to slow consumption, as canisters are still available in supermarkets. If anything, it’s worsened the problem as underground criminal networks get involved in sale and distribution. The problem is so prevalent that nitrous oxide canisters often litter the streets. The clean-up is just as precarious, and is becoming expensive. In 2025, clean-up costs reached €12 million. When crushed in waste-processing plants, the canisters can explode, damaging infrastructure and forcing closures.

Credit: Trygve Finkelsen / Shutterstock.com

BELGIUM’S newest party-drug of choice is no laughing matter. The growing popularity of nitrous oxide, more commonly referred to as “laughing gas” is posing a real risk to safety. Cheap, colourful and easily passed around, laughing gas canisters have become an increasingly popular

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Rare Moomin mug sells for huge amount.

A RARE Moomin mug has sold for €46,023 after five collectors reportedly bid more than €40,000 for the unreleased design. The Diving with Shells mug was auctioned privately in Finland. The auction took place in December 2025, although the sale was completed in April 2026. News of the record price was released on September 24, at the buyer’s request. Only about 10 examples of the mug are believed to have been made. Most

were reportedly given to employees at the Arabia factory, where Moomin tableware is produced. The mug was created as a test version of Arabia’s 2006 Diving summer mug. It features extra shell and coral details, which were removed before the standard design went into production. Collectors can therefore tell the rare version apart from the more widely available mug. Rasmus Rantanen, chief executive of Finnish Moomin collectibles

company Mukilaakso Oy, said the sale was the highest known price paid for a single Moomin mug. His company bought the piece for €27,000 from a Swedish auction site before selling it on. A similar mug sold for about €9,000 in 2019, while another fetched roughly €23,000 in 2021. Created by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson, Moomins remain popular with collectors worldwide. One of these tiny test mugs could now be worth more than a family car.

Colosseum fall mystery A 22-YEAR-OLD specialist rope-access worker has died after falling around 10 metres while installing a new lighting system inside Rome’s Colosseum. Andrea Moretti fell between the second and third levels shortly before midnight. Two other workers, including his brother-in-law, were inside the monument but did not see the fall. They heard the impact and raised the alarm, but emergency crews were unable to save him. Rome prosecutors have opened an investigation into alleged culpable homicide and possible workplace safety violations. Seven people are currently under investigation while authorities examine the companies involved, including the subcontractor carrying out the installation.

Photo credit: V_E/Shutterstock

Investigators are particularly interested in the safety equipment.

Investigators are particularly interested in Moretti’s safety equipment. He was reportedly wearing a harness and other protective equipment, but his safety rope was not attached when he was found. The rope had not broken and was located several metres above where he fell. The equipment has been seized for technical analy-

sis, while CCTV footage and drone imagery are also being examined. Human error has not been ruled out, but prosecutors have not established that it caused the accident. The Colosseum was temporarily closed following the death. A post mortem and further technical examinations are expected to help establish what happened.

FINANCE UK WAGE growth slowed to 3.9 per cent in the three months up to July, while unemployment held at 4.9 per cent as the labour market showed signs of cooling. The figures come as the Bank of England weighs interest rates against persistent inflation. Rising oil prices add further pressure.

Big Mac bust

FORCED by the rising costs and declining interest in beef products, McDonalds is switching focus. The fast-food chain will invest €7.4 billion to promote and improve its chicken range. Chicken generates €157 billion in sales annually. Comparatively, the beef market is worth only €43 billion.

Tariff threats

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump has called the EU’s proposal to make Canada an associate member “laughable” and threatened “very serious” tariffs or stopping EU trade. The US already imposes a 15 per cent tariff ceiling on most EU exports, while the EU has removed tariffs on US industrial goods.

Farmer funds

ON September 22, the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme opened in the UK. Just six hours later, the UK confirmed applications were closed, as the entire £253 million had been allocated. Many farmers didn’t get a chance to apply for funding, and won’t get another until 2027.

United losses

MANCHESTER UNITED suffered a seventh consecutive annual loss, losing £43 million. Cumulative losses since 2019 total £444 million. Despite record revenue of £677.6 million, financial pressure remains. The club is also selling pieces of Old Trafford’s former pitch for £125, adding another unusual revenue stream.

54.1%

STAT OF WEEK

54.1 per cent of the EU’s electricity came from renewable energy sources in Q2 of 2026, according to Eurostat.

Commute costs more DRIVERS across Europe are feeling the pressure of higher fuel prices as ongoing conflict in the Middle East and attacks on Russian refineries cause prices to skyrocket. According to a recent Transport & Environment report, high fuel prices have cost the EU an estimated €53 billion since the start of the Iran war. €40 billion of that extra cost comes from diesel as, compared to other major economies, Europe is the most reliant on diesel. In the UK, for example, average diesel prices have climbed 32 per cent to 196.29 pence a litre since February 2026. With ongoing global conflicts showing no sign of slowing, costs could reach record highs of £2 a litre. It’s reaching a point where the commute to work is becoming more expensive with every trip to the petrol station. Following the US and Israel’s attack, Iran restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz. On an average day before war broke out, around 20.3 million barrels passed through

Fuel prices continue to rise amidst global unrest.

each day. Consequently, a fifth of the world’s oil supply has been removed from the global market since February, causing crude oil prices to frequently hit $100 a barrel (€87). The issue isn’t only a lack of crude oil, but an incapacity to refine it into

fuel. The Middle East once supplied 10 per cent of the world’s fuel but their refineries have been severely damaged by the war. It’s a similar case in Russia. Only recently, on September 20, was one of Moscow’s largest refineries targeted by Ukraine.

Russia takeover RUSSIA recently seized control of several foreign operations, including 16 businesses linked to Swiss food giant Nestle. Following a presidential decree by president Vladimir Putin, Nestle’s Russian operations and the assets of French supermarket chain Auchan were placed in temporary administration and handed over to LEV Management. This is thought to be Russia’s largest takeover of foreign corporate assets since 2024. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry

Transport costs

MOVING oil around the world has suddenly become very expensive. Hiring a supertanker from the Persian Gulf to Asia now costs about €965,750 a day, roughly 12 times the rate seen just months ago. The impact is even clearer on individual cargoes. Shipping crude from Saudi Arabia to China now costs as much as €55 million, up from around €3.9 million. Transport has risen from about 5 per cent to 25 per cent of the cargo’s value. On the Houston-to-Asia route, freight adds roughly €22 a barrel, or €45million per shipment, making distance an increasingly costly part of the oil equation.

Athlete retirement

Credit: Dusan Petkovic, Shutterstock

Wages slow

euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 October 2026

Peskov explained: “One of the factors taken into account when making this decision was that these are unfriendly countries, which are currently most actively involved in military operations against our country.” Nestle, meanwhile, is “assessing the situation and its options.” Nestle has operated within Russia since 1995. While it trimmed its operations following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it did not withdraw completely from the region.

Made in the EU

THE EU’s new Made in Europe scheme was implemented to boost its manufacturing industry, protecting it from foreign competition. However, a new report shows it is consumers who will pay the price, especially when it comes to electric cars. According to Brussels think tank Bruegel, customers could pay an additional €2,100 because of the stipulation that battery cells be made in the EU rather than imported. This will especially impact cheaper models and low-income consumers.

Credit: Richard M Lee, Shutterstock

BUSINESS EXTRA

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Russia takes over Nestle operations.

Supermarkets hit

AS families ease into their everyday routines, Spanish households are noticing how nearly everything in the supermarket has jumped in price. Food prices in Spain increased overall by 2.3 per cent year on year, but this increase wasn’t felt evenly across the shelves. Fresh fruit rose 17.1 per cent, with fresh berries now 35.7 per cent more expensive compared to 2025. Meat and seafood were also impacted. Beef prices increased 9.4 per cent, while fish rose by 7.8 per cent.

RETIREMENT comes earlier for athletes than most Spanish workers, but now years spent competing can be counted towards their state pension. A newly approved Royal Decree allows professional sporting activity carried out between March 15, 1980, and the athlete’s integration into the General Social Security System to be recognised as contributory time. Until full integration in 2003, some athletes had gaps in their contribution records. The measure covers athletes who lived in Spain, worked there under a professional contract and were covered by the special employment relationship for professional athletes. It excludes professional footballers, who have specific rules.

Entry-level AI THE biggest threat to young people’s future in full-time employment remains AI. Entry-level jobs are being replaced with automated AI systems, essentially removing the first rung on the career ladder for aspiring young professionals. In Spain, entry level positions have fallen by 1.9 per cent. Senior employees are safe, for now, but there’s a worry there won’t be a capable cohort from which to promote their replacements in the future.

Conflict impact

ECONOMIC experts feared the worst when war broke out in Iran in February, 2026. But according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the global economy proved more resilient than expected. Its continued resilience does depend heavily, however, on a swift and lasting resolution to the conflict. With energy supplies running out, fiscal space shrinking and costs rising, there are so many more hits the economy can take.

14 1 - 7 October 2026

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FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

DOW JONES

Closing Prices 28 September

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Closing Prices 28 September

Net

3I Group.....................................2.653,00............2.661,00......... 2.643,00.......... 94,02K Admiral Group.............................3.628,0..............3.656,0........... 3.620,0........... 14,59K Airtel Africa................................. 304,60...............308,80............303,20.......... 141,47K Anglo American...........................4.033,0..............4.104,0........... 4.017,0........... 124,3K Antofagasta................................3.748,00............3.834,00......... 3.721,00.......... 74,79K Associated British Foods.............1.845,0..............1.846,0........... 1.833,0........... 30,66K AstraZeneca...............................12.546,0............12.550,0......... 12.398,0......... 154,72K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 466,90...............468,60............457,00.......... 613,52K Aviva........................................... 702,96...............704,00............700,00.......... 143,41K B M European Value Retail.......... 246,60...............248,00............246,00.......... 184,23K BAE Systems..............................1.979,50............1.993,00......... 1.973,50......... 250,43K Barclays...................................... 461,57...............465,15............461,53............1,42M Barratt Redrow............................ 308,08...............308,30............305,20.......... 582,39K Beazley.......................................1.306,00............1.307,00......... 1.306,00.......... 37,37K Berkeley......................................3.350,0..............3.364,0........... 3.270,0............ 1,72K BP............................................... 558,30...............561,40............556,50............5,77M British American Tobacco...........4.204,0..............4.235,0........... 4.195,0........... 92,08K BT Group.................................... 195,24...............195,40............192,95.......... 511,11K Bunzl...........................................2.674,0..............2.694,0........... 2.672,0........... 64,44K Centrica....................................... 149,00...............149,60............148,35.......... 948,97K Coca Cola HBC AG......................4.383,0..............4.398,0........... 4.356,0........... 20,79K Compass...................................... 29,35.................29,49..............29,16............ 50,54K ConvaTec Group......................... 209,80...............212,80............209,80.......... 468,24K Croda Intl....................................3.242,0..............3.265,0........... 3.224,0........... 15,13K DCC.............................................6.439,4..............6.440,0........... 6.344,9........... 11,06K Diageo.........................................1.644,3..............1.647,5........... 1.635,8.......... 110,37K Diploma.....................................7.794,60............7.815,00......... 7.750,00........... 9,21K EasyJet........................................ 671,20...............672,80............670,60........... 93,84K Entain.......................................... 447,50...............450,90............443,90.......... 305,74K Experian......................................2.633,0..............2.636,0........... 2.613,0........... 85,14K F&C Invest.................................. 345,20...............346,40............343,00........... 60,35K Frasers........................................ 802,50...............818,00............798,50........... 13,92K Fresnillo.....................................2.858,00............2.895,00......... 2.846,00.......... 25,28K Glencore...................................... 559,70...............567,30............557,48............2,24M GSK plc......................................1.886,00............1.887,50......... 1.867,50......... 197,35K HALEON...................................... 341,90...............344,90............340,70............2,25M Halma..........................................3.548,0..............3.596,0........... 3.518,0............ 67,6K Hikma Pharma...........................1.607,00............1.619,00......... 1.589,00........... 9,94K Hiscox........................................1.884,00............1.887,00......... 1.876,00.......... 53,36K Howden Joinery.......................... 760,00...............768,50............759,50........... 32,63K HSBC.........................................1.519,20............1.523,60......... 1.515,20...........1,02M IAG.............................................. 434,90...............437,86............434,10.......... 734,16K ICG PLC.....................................1.852,00............1.859,00......... 1.835,00.......... 58,46K IMI PLC......................................3.144,00............3.144,00......... 3.120,00.......... 27,74K Imperial Brands..........................2.466,00............2.476,00......... 2.462,00.......... 46,77K Informa....................................... 880,60...............881,40............874,00.......... 180,25K InterContinental........................... 157,4.................158,2..............157,1............. 6,54K Intertek........................................5.868,6..............5.870,0........... 5.865,0............ 4,28K

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

J Sainsbury................................. 336,30...............336,90............335,20.......... 196,18K JD Sports Fashion........................ 77,42.................78,16..............76,76........... 868,55K Kingfisher.................................... 326,35...............330,50............326,35.......... 263,42K Land Securities........................... 619,00...............623,50............618,00........... 150,5K Legal & General.......................... 299,49...............300,40............298,00............1,92M Lloyds Banking........................... 108,45...............108,85............107,75............5,27M London Stock Exchange..............8.258,0..............8.274,0........... 8.232,0........... 33,57K Londonmetric Property............... 179,39...............180,50............179,10.......... 185,28K M&G........................................... 329,50...............330,60............328,30........... 93,65K Marks & Spencer........................ 374,70...............375,90............372,20.......... 222,34K Melrose Industries...................... 473,40...............477,20............471,90.......... 100,19K Mondi.......................................... 817,20...............826,00............814,20............ 40,1K National Grid..............................1.146,50............1.148,50......... 1.139,00......... 404,68K NatWest Group........................... 686,40...............692,80............685,80.......... 765,39K Next...........................................14.600,0............14.640,0......... 14.470,0........... 5,05K Pearson......................................1.217,50............1.222,50......... 1.208,95.......... 29,93K Pershing Square........................3.634,00............3.668,00......... 3.622,00........... 8,03K Persimmon.................................1.159,0..............1.163,0........... 1.153,5........... 16,31K Prudential.................................... 954,20...............956,20............950,80.......... 433,28K Reckitt Benckiser........................4.903,0..............4.921,0........... 4.883,0..............39K Relx............................................2.532,00............2.539,00......... 2.512,00......... 138,56K Rentokil....................................... 307,68...............310,28............307,60.......... 398,34K Rightmove.................................. 448,70...............459,20............447,00........... 96,42K Rio Tinto PLC..............................7.115,3..............7.189,0........... 7.099,0.......... 113,43K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.495,20............1.510,06......... 1.492,20......... 572,76K Sage............................................ 991,00...............996,80............988,40........... 54,41K Schroders.................................... 588,5.................589,0..............588,5............ 95,43K Scottish Mortgage......................1.582,72............1.594,50......... 1.580,00.......... 153,5K Segro.......................................... 954,60...............960,20............953,40........... 53,95K Severn Trent...............................3.080,0..............3.090,0........... 3.056,0........... 12,96K Shell............................................3.624,5..............3.632,4........... 3.593,5.......... 390,12K Smith & Nephew......................... 999,80..............1.004,63...........998,80........... 72,85K Smiths Group.............................2.820,00............2.826,00......... 2.772,00........... 56,2K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........7.000,0..............7.070,0........... 6.970,0............ 3,45K SSE............................................2.500,00............2.515,00......... 2.477,00......... 108,47K Standard Chartered....................2.295,00............2.300,00......... 2.287,00......... 208,19K Standard Life............................... 897,00...............903,50............893,00.......... 170,73K Taylor Wimpey............................. 79,72.................80,04..............79,20............ 436,2K Tesco.......................................... 473,70...............476,30............472,50.......... 246,56K Unilever.......................................4.682,5..............4.692,5........... 4.658,0.......... 124,88K Unite........................................... 460,60...............461,40............458,00........... 47,68K United Utilities............................1.406,00............1.414,00......... 1.397,00.......... 42,45K Vistry Group................................ 267,40...............270,00............264,60.......... 452,62K Vodafone Group PLC................. 125,800.............127,300..........124,750............2,5M Weir Group................................2.636,00............2.652,00......... 2.610,00.......... 25,75K Whitbread...................................2.335,0..............2.348,0........... 2.328,0........... 22,72K WPP............................................ 385,36...............387,00............382,00.......... 113,32K

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

3M.............................................. 167,52...............170,75............167,26............2,43M Amazon.com............................... 249,38...............250,43............245,60...........33,04M American Express....................... 305,66...............305,89............299,91............3,96M Amgen........................................ 406,04...............409,99............403,88............2,53M Apple........................................... 335,92...............338,91............334,30...........24,73M Boeing......................................... 196,80...............199,49............194,40............9,63M Caterpillar.................................... 805,25...............809,14............794,20.............2,2M Chevron...................................... 205,65...............208,10............204,87............9,39M Cisco........................................... 106,97...............107,06............105,06...........32,36M Coca-Cola..................................... 88,10.................89,36..............88,10............13,17M Goldman Sachs........................... 923,29...............933,41............914,68............2,35M Home Depot................................ 292,18...............299,10............291,07............7,06M Honeywell................................... 211,79...............212,97............209,18............2,14M IBM............................................. 227,06...............232,62............226,01............4,15M J&J............................................. 270,68...............275,23............269,01............6,32M JPMorgan................................... 338,56...............339,37............335,28............6,94M McDonald’s................................. 237,02...............242,56............237,02............7,39M Merck&Co................................... 147,98...............151,46............147,90...........10,31M Microsoft.................................... 497,93...............498,90............491,22...........16,66M Nike.............................................. 35,99.................36,14..............35,52............39,24M NVIDIA........................................ 224,58...............224,94............221,09...........77,47M P&G............................................ 145,68...............149,20............145,68............7,43M Salesforce Inc............................. 238,22...............242,09............237,00...........11,07M Sherwin-Williams........................ 320,40...............326,20............316,57............2,49M The Travelers.............................. 362,39...............366,49............361,85............1,05M UnitedHealth............................... 375,01...............375,28............368,50............4,65M Verizon......................................... 47,32.................47,77..............46,92............21,04M Visa A.......................................... 367,98...............368,21............362,00............4,42M Walmart...................................... 107,59...............111,17............107,51...........26,17M Walt Disney................................. 105,56...............105,75............103,90............7,89M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 28 September

Company

Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced Beneficient.......................................................-50,00 %.........................21,49M Trio-Tech.........................................................-36,59 %..........................2,88M 22nd Century...................................................-35,47 %........................855,26K Wheeler REIT...................................................-31,25 %..........................3,51M Artelo Biosciences............................................-29,27 %..........................1,06M Hub Cyber Security..........................................-27,41 %........................381,45K Arcadia Biosciences.........................................-25,82 %........................889,44K NeoVolta..........................................................-24,45 %..........................4,59M Top Wealth Holding.........................................-24,11 %.........................94,86M Professional Diversity......................................-23,06 %........................710,77K Hennessy Cap Inv............................................-22,20 %........................444,25K GreenPower Motor Company...........................-21,92 %........................664,35K Stitch Fix..........................................................-21,63 %.........................14,14M Jaguar Health...................................................-20,76 %..........................2,08M Solowin............................................................-20,73 %........................914,65K Healthcare Triangle..........................................-19,87 %..........................2,69M VistaGen Therapeutics.....................................-19,82 %.........................20,47M Tvardi Therapeutics..........................................-19,70 %........................609,63K Inflection Point Acquisition V..........................-19,57 %.........................40,99K M - Million Dollars

Company

Change Net / % Volume Most Declined Surrozen......................................................... 108,42 %........................11,53M Greenland Energy............................................. 83,85 %........................166,24M Powell Max...................................................... 81,01 %.........................56,95M STAK Inc.......................................................... 53,19 %.........................45,26M Profusa............................................................ 47,80 %.........................79,27M YD Bio.............................................................. 47,68 %..........................3,17M Hang Feng Tech Innovation.............................. 38,07 %..........................7,84M Springview Holdings........................................ 35,56 %.........................13,03M Greenland Mines.............................................. 33,07 %.........................42,18M AVAX One Tech................................................ 32,93 %..........................2,03M Wetour Robotics.............................................. 31,03 %.........................28,58M SVRN............................................................... 29,74 %........................502,16K EZGO Technologies.......................................... 28,99 %...........................3,9M Valion Bio......................................................... 27,47 %.........................10,75M GlucoTrack....................................................... 27,09 %..........................51,6M Montauk Renewables....................................... 26,59 %..........................3,47M Z Squared........................................................ 25,34 %.........................908,9K Murano Global Investments Plc....................... 24,04 %..........................7,56M Alpha Compute................................................ 23,57 %........................160,07K M - Million Dollars

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FINANCE

Blackstone backing

BLACKSTONE is doubling down on Spain, targeting affordable housing, logistics, hotels and data centres. The US investment giant sees strong long-term potential despite recent asset sales, assessing opportunities in Madrid and Valencia, along with a €7.5 billion data-centre project in Zaragoza.

Military deal

SPAIN’S Council of Ministers has approved a new five-year agreement between the Ministry of Defence and Renfe’s freight and passenger divisions, covering military rail transport until 2030. The agreement authorises up to €110 million in state spending, including provisions for transporting personnel and equipment.

Spain lags behind SPAIN’S property market is showing impressive momentum, but the latest figures show it still has a long way to go to match Europe’s biggest real estate markets. According to the latest forecasts, investment in Spanish real estate is expected to reach €156 billion in 2027, representing growth of 10.2 per cent. That follows an estimated 10.7 per cent increase this year, putting Spain among Europe’s fastest-growing markets.

Credit: Mazur Travel, Shutterstock

BUSINESS EXTRA

1 - 7 October 2026

Spain’s real estate market has some catching up to do.

Pension abolition A REFORM UK linked think tank, The Centre for a Better Britain, recently released its Boosting Britain report. The report proposed cutting wealth taxes, eliminating stamp duty, digital service tax, air passenger duty and reducing corporation tax by 10 per cent. Such measures would come at a cost of £75 billion to public finances. To avoid a market melt-

down, public spending would also need to be cut. CFABB suggested closing public pensions to new teachers and civil servants and abolishing the state pension, which CFABB founder described as “a Ponzi scheme”, and instead replacing it with a lifetime investment account, with account holders contributing 15 per cent of annual earnings.

But growth is not the same as scale. Germany is expected to attract €338 billion in real estate investment in 2027, more than twice Spain’s projected total. France is forecast to reach €234 billion, while Italy is expected to record €194.1 billion. Spanish property prices are forecast to rise by 10 per cent in 2026, followed by a further 7 per cent increase in 2027. Strong demand, limited housing supply and continued interest from buyers are helping to push the market higher. For Spain, the figures point to a market gaining speed, but still operating below the investment levels of Europe’s largest property economies. The challenge now is whether this rapid growth can translate into a bigger, deeper and more competitive real estate market, rather than simply higher prices.

15

Housing shortage SPAIN’S affordable housing shortage is not simply a lack of investment. Developers face high construction costs, expensive financing, limited land, lengthy planning procedures and regulatory uncertainty. At the same time, demand continues to outpace supply. Only 33 per cent of new households formed between 2022 and 2024 were matched by new homes, widening the affordability gap.

Onion import SPANISH onion growers are under pressure as imports increase and prices fall. Between January and June, extra-EU onion imports reached a record 126,923 tonnes, up 4.5 per cent. Meanwhile, growers reportedly abandoned 10 to 15 per cent of early and medium-storage onions because selling prices failed to cover harvesting and production costs.

16 1 - 7 October 2026

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FEATURE - SPANISH NEWS

Rescue dolphin dies

LEAPY LEE - SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT

I’VE actually done a bit of filming during my somewhat peppered showbiz career. When I was a teen dreamer, I did manage to get work as an ‘extra’. Extras were those who made up the crowd scenes or military in war films etc. Sometimes you could actually pick up a couple of lines; ‘Pass it over here Bert’ or ‘watch out’ were a couple of mine during those starry-eyed times. The best ‘job’ I ever had was on a movie called The Criminal (no pun intended). It starred, among others, the well-known film actor Stanley Baker. I never really got well acquainted with the other extras. Most were just in it as a job and spent most of their time playing cards or reading. I, of course, was waiting for stardom to rise up and capture my budding talents! The director of the movie was Joseph Losey, an extremely famous administrator in the film business. I would watch him work for hours. One scene was being shot in front of high prison gates. These were being opened and closed by two prison warder extras in what was referred to as ‘special action’. At the end of the ‘action’ the great doors were closed and the scene was over. They shot it several times till the director called ‘Cut’ and informed the cast there would now be a tea

break. But it can’t be over, I thought. In the background I noticed that in the final take, the two bungling extras hadn’t actually closed the prison gates. I quickly crossed over to where another actor, Kenneth Cope, who later found fame in the TV series Randall and Hopkirk, was supping his tea, and told him what I had noticed. ‘Then you must tell the director,’ he urged, ‘and do it now before they prepare the set for the next scene’. With nerves jangling, I approached the great man and stumblingly explained to him what I had witnessed. To my amazement he suddenly lost it. ‘Why didn’t you tell me earlier?’ He almost screamed and with that, turned and bellowed at all his minions and continuity people, informing all they would have to repeat the shot again. Luckily, as we had broken for a tea break, they didn’t have to reset the scene. I never heard from the great man again. What I did notice however, was that I was called up for my extra work every day for the next three weeks. So, Mr Losey never did totally forget the young ‘spare’ who had saved him a great deal of time and money! Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

Credit: Facebook/Oceanografic Valencia

A starry-eyed extra

Marineland dolphin dies in Spain weeks after dramatic rescue.

A DOLPHIN rescued from a shuttered Canadian marine park has died in Valencia just weeks after being transported to Spain. Echo, a female Black Sea bottlenose dolphin believed to be around 30 years old, died at Oceanogràfic València on September 23. She was among four dolphins and two beluga whales transferred from Marineland Canada in August, after the attraction closed to the public in 2024. Oceanogràfic said Echo arrived on August 26 following a 19-hour journey from Ontario. She had serious health problems, including blindness, and was placed under close veterinary supervision. Her condition deteriorated when she developed difficulty swallowing and respiratory problems. Staff moved her to a medical pool and provided treatment, but she died overnight. The aquarium said a post mortem will be carried out to establish the cause of death, with specialists from CEU Cardenal Herrera University involved in the investigation. Echo’s death comes just days after Jelly Bean, a beluga whale also relocated from Marineland, died at the Valencia aquarium. The remaining four animals transferred from Canada are continuing to receive veterinary care.

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Ferry fire off Mykonos

17

NORA JOHNSON - BREAKING VIEWS

The Blue Star Ferries-operated Blue Carrier 2 ablaze off Mykonos, with rescue boats standing by.

A FIRE that broke out on a Greek ferry off Mykonos on Friday, September 25, forced all 29 people on board to abandon ship. Luckily, they all escaped without injury. The blaze took hold in a garage packed with lorries aboard Blue Carrier 2, a car and freight ferry sailing out of Piraeus towards Samos, Kos and Rhodes. The 28 crew and a lorry driver made it into lifeboats within minutes, and coast guard vessels picked them up and took them to the nearby island of Tinos, where they were given medical checks and declared unharmed. By the following day, the fire itself

1 - 7 October 2026

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST. Credit: georgios_vallis / Instagram

EUROPRESS - FEATURE

had eased, but thousands of litres of water used to cool the wreckage had left the ship tilting to one side. Greece’s Ministry of Shipping called an emergency meeting over the risk, and anti-pollution equipment was put on standby at nearby ports in case fuel tanks were damaged. Investigators think one of the lorries in the garage sparked the blaze, though that’s still being confirmed. Attica Group hasn’t said when the route will resume, so anyone with a Greek island crossing booked through Blue Star Ferries should check before they travel.

A UNESCO Heritage haven! IBIZA – a UNESCO Heritage haven! Looking for a rewarding place to visit this autumn? Head to Ibiza! The third largest of the Balearic Islands, it lounges in the western Mediterranean some 50 miles southwest of Mallorca, combining history with a certain sunlit swagger. Historically, Ibiza was a big deal, hosting Phoenicians and Carthaginians, whose legacy lingers in archaeological sites now curated in the Archaeological Museum in Ibiza town. Its terrain is a study in contrasts. Hills climb towards La Atalaya, while the northern coastline splits into rugged cliffs and hidden coves. Inland, terraces carve patterns in the slopes, sustaining a modest agricultural life that still produces almonds, figs and apricots. Salt, harvested from sun-drenched flats, has long been the island’s enduring export.

Beyond the beaches, Ibiza remains quietly rural. Farms and villages dot the countryside, preserving a slower rhythm of life. Yet the island hasn’t stood still. Recent large-scale tourism has increased its population (and local opinions may, and will, vary!), drawn by mild winters and sun-drenched shores. Ibiza Town, San Antonio and Santa Eularia anchor this growth, blending tradition with modern energy. Recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999 underscores what visitors quickly discover: Ibiza’s far more than a soundtrack of summer revelry and not simply a playground, but a place where nature, history and culture meet seamlessly. Thanks for emails to my website below. Delighted you enjoy my novels invited for inclusion in the prestigious Book Riot’s 2026 Read Harder Challenge!

Nora Johnson’s 15 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl in Red’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

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22

20 1 - 7 October 2026

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FEATURE

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol

Costa Blanca South

Flying high for dementia

A summer to remember

A TOTAL of 17 participants took on Andalucia’s longest zip line to gather funds for Alzheimer’s and dementia care across the Costa del Sol and inland Malaga. Held at Sunview Park Adventure near Alhaurin de la Torre, the 2026 challenge generated an estimated €6,000 for the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group (ADSG). Event organizer Pat Jay cheered on the brave flyers from the ground after a broken ankle prevented her from taking part. The funds raised will support ADSG’s work providing free guidance, meetings, and practical assistance to individuals and families coping with memory loss. Individual collectors contributed to the success of the day, with a four-person collection team raising €1,028 towards the final total. Sunview Park’s 1,350-metre double zip line offers views over the Guadalhorce valley, proving a memorable location for the charity event.

NOW September has drawn to a close, the Costa Blanca can look back on a summer that delivered plenty of reasons to celebrate. British consumer champion Which? put the Costa Blanca at the top of its original 2026 peak-summer package holiday ranking after comparing 5,393 breaks. A seven-night August package averaged £864 per person, including flights and accommodation, the only destination in that study below £900. Orihuela retained 10 Blue Flags, including La Zenia, Cabo Roig, Campoamor and Mil Palmeras, while Torrevieja retained six. Visitors arrived in record numbers. Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport recorded its busiest August ever, handling 2,337,378 passengers, up 11.4 per cent on August 2025. By the end of August, 14,739,523 passengers had passed through the airport this year, an increase of 9.9 per cent.

Axarquia

Almeria

Torre del Mar windfall

Canine competition

AN ONCE lottery seller has brought a €1.235 million windfall to Torre del Mar, delivering a series of major prizes to local residents along his daily route. Juan Carlos Zalazar sold 22 winning tickets during his rounds on Thursday, September 24. The winning number was 35972, with series 044 claiming the top €500,000 jackpot. A further 21 customers won €35,000 each. Mr Zalazar, who has worked for the organisation since 2022, does not operate from a fixed kiosk. Instead, he sells coupons directly to regular buyers in the Axarquia town. The major payout coincided with a personal milestone for the seller, who was celebrating his 15th wedding anniversary on the same day. He noted that the news gave his family an extra reason to celebrate, whilst expressing delight at helping his daily customers. Despite the excitement, Mr Zalazar returned to work as normal the following morning.

TREX ANDALUCIA was busier than usual on Sunday, September 27, when two and four-legged friends stopped by for the annual Autumn Fair. What followed was an incredible afternoon full of fun which helped raise more than €1,000 for the sanctuary. Year after year the Fun Dog Show brings a smile to everyone’s faces. Five categories were contested this year: Best in Show, Handsomest Hound, Loveliest Lady, Best Rescue and Fancy Dress, by far the highlight of the day. Dogs and owners alike showed up in style. Some were dressed ready to ride out to the Wild West, others to set sail on the seven seas in search of hidden treasure. But it was little Bertie, dressed in his Hogwarts uniform, who stole everybody’s hearts to take home the coveted Best in Show trophy. This year’s edition raised an incredible €1454.70 through Dog-Show sign-ups, stall pitches, a raffle and 2027 calendar sales.

Mallorca

Costa Blanca North

Electric carriages unveiled PALMA’S iconic horse-drawn carriages could be heading for a major transformation, with drivers unveiling a new electric model that could take to the streets next year. The €45,000 prototype was presented near Palma Cathedral on September 28, giving carriage drivers their first close look at a design intended specifically for tourist transport. More than half of Palma’s drivers are reportedly interested in making the switch, although the cost could make a gradual transition necessary. The new carriage is designed to retain the traditional appearance of Palma’s tourist vehicles while replacing the horse with electric power. It is expected to offer a range of around 160 kilometres and can operate for around 14 hours on a full battery. However, the model still needs to clear several hurdles before it can enter service. It must be assessed by Palma City Council and comply with requirements from Spain’s traffic authority and the Mobility Department.

Foodie heaven in Denia

DENIA is celebrated its culinary identity as the D*na Festival Gastronòmic took over the Marineta Cassiana for a weekend dedicated to food, local produce and Mediterranean cooking. The ninth edition was held on September 26 and 27, with the seafront transformed into a gastronomic meeting point featuring restaurants, producers, artisans and chefs. Around 50 stands stretched across more than 800 metres, showcasing local seafood, rice dishes, wine, olive oil, honey, spices and traditional products. The festival, directed by three-Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta, also placed a strong emphasis on sharing culinary knowledge. Visitors watched live cooking demonstrations, took part in tastings and attended workshops. There was a strong local presence throughout the event, with Denia and the Marina Alta’s food culture taking centre stage.

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PETS

1 - 7 October 2026

The ones nobody chooses

Photo credit: Timor M/Shutterstock

Credit: Annabell Gsoedl, shutterstock

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Adult and senior animals face particularly long waits.

Keep dog’s nails at a comfortable length.

KEEPING your dog’s nails at a healthy length is an important part of their routine care. Overgrown nails can become uncomfortable, affect the way your dog walks, and may even curl into the paw. So, when do nails need trimming? A good rule is to listen for a clicking sound when your dog walks on a hard floor. If their nails touch the ground when they are standing naturally, they

Happy paws may be due for a trim. Choose proper dog nail clippers or a nail grinder and start slowly. Get your dog comfortable with having their paws handled before attempting a trim. When clipping, take off small amounts at a time and avoid the quick - the sensitive area inside the

nail, containing blood vessels. With pale nails, it is usually easier to see the quick. Dark nails require extra care, so trim tiny sections and check the cut surface as you go. Keep treats nearby and reward calm behaviour throughout. There is no need to rush,

and stopping after one or two nails is perfectly fine while your dog gets used to the process. If you’re nervous about doing it yourself, don’t worry. Many vets are happy to trim dogs’ nails, often for a small cost, so don’t be afraid to ask at your next check-up.

Kitten toy box explore their environment. When choosing toys, avoid anything with loose parts that could be swallowed. Rotate toys regularly too. A toy that disappears for a few days can suddenly seem exciting again. The best toy isn’t necessarily the most expensive. For kittens, variety,

FACT

safety and plenty of opportunities to chase, pounce and explore are what really matter.

Credit: Silvaj10, Shutterstock

KITTENS are naturally curious, playful and full of energy, so the right toys can do much more than keep them entertained. Play helps kittens practise their hunting instincts, stay active and learn how to interact with their surroundings. Wand toys are a brilliant choice for interactive play. Feathers, ribbons and small attachments encourage kittens to chase, pounce and leap, giving them both mental and physical exercise. For independent entertainment, small balls and lightweight toys are ideal. Choose toys that are easy for tiny paws to bat around and carry. Toys with interesting textures, sounds or movement can keep curious kittens engaged for longer. Puzzle and treat-dispensing toys can also introduce kittens to problem-solving. Start with simple designs and gradually increase the challenge as they become more confident. Don’t forget the importance of scratching posts and toys. Scratching is a natural behaviour that helps kittens stretch, exercise their claws and

Rotate toys for endless fun.

SPAIN’S animal shelters took in 285,720 dogs and cats during 2025, according to Fundación Affinity’s 2026 study, but adoptions fell to their lowest level since the pandemic. Around 120,000 animals were adopted, representing roughly 42 per cent of those entering shelters. Dog adoptions fell 18 per cent from 2024 to around 72,000, while cat adoptions dropped 14 per cent to approximately 48,000. Adult and senior animals face particularly long waits. Dogs in this age group spend an average of 12.8 months in shelters, compared with 2.7 months for puppies. Adult and senior cats remain for an average of 13.2 months, compared with 3.3 months for kittens. Behaviour problems were identified by 77.6 per cent of animal protection organisations as a factor in prolonged stays. Other obstacles include age, illness and size. Among known abandonment reasons, unwanted litters, loss of interest, moving home, the end of hunting season and behaviour problems were prominent. The study also reports that 4.8 per cent of dogs and 16.3 per cent of cats entering shelters died or were euthanised, although the figures combine both causes and cannot be interpreted as euthanasia rates.

Dog donors

DOGS actually have a unique blood donor system. While humans have four main blood types, dogs have over 13 distinct blood groups! Because dogs don’t naturally produce antibodies against other blood types, a dog can usually receive a ‘freebie’ life-saving blood transfusion from almost any other dog for their first transfusion without an adverse reaction.

CLASSIFIEDS CHARITY ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org (93323)

MOTORS FOR SALE

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

MASSAGE ELEGANTE, slim Sophie. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (314062)

MOTORING WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English,

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call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

1 - 7 October 2026

MOTORING

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ROAD TEST BY MARK SLACK

Special Suzuki models – Vitara and S-Cross Kuro SUZUKI’S Vitara has long been a popular mainstay of their line-up and the Japanese car maker is offering two special editions of the Vitara Hybrid and the versatile S-Cross Hybrid ranges. The S-Cross has evolved from its beginnings as a crossover built in partnership with Fiat to a handsome looking family SUV and also benefits from the special edition treatment. While the ever-popular Vitara maintains its appeal as a price conscious, well-equipped and versatile SUV. Suzuki has recently launched a ‘Vitara Edición Limitada’ (Limited Edition) specifically for the Spanish market that mirrors many of the exact style cues found on the UK marketed Kuro and which emulates the black aesthetic. The two new special edition models are badged as Kuro, which means black in Japanese, and both models feature unique trim upgrades for both exterior and interior as well as a choice of standard dual-tone or single-tone metallic colour options. Vitara Kuro is based on the Ultra ALLGRIP model with additional de-

Models discussed relate to UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets.

sign enhancements featuring black as the theme colour for the alloy wheels, roof rails, roof spoiler, exterior door handles, door mirrors, rear bumper and boot trims. For the interior, the theme continues with a piano black finish to centre console, instrument panel and door trim, plus orange detail stitching on the interior door panels.

Available as standard with Suzuki’s renowned and very effective ALLGRIP four-wheel drive, and in three two-tone metallic colours, power comes from a 1.4-litre Mild Hybrid

petrol engine with either manual or optional six speed automatic transmission. The ALLGRIP manual transmission model is competitively priced at €30,537/£26,199 with current customer offers, or €36,715/£31,499. Moving up the range to the S-Cross, the Kuro is again based on the Ultra ALLGRIP version and available in three single-tone metallic colours, and features design enhancements in black which include alloy wheels, door handles, roof rails and mirrors as well as front LED foglamps now included. Moving inside, again, orange detail stitching is added and piano black trims fitted to the centre console and door handle surrounds. As with Vitara, S-Cross Kuro is exclusively available with ALLGRIP and the 1.4-litre Mild Hybrid petrol engine, with either manual or optional six speed automatic transmission. The S-Cross Kuro manual transmission model is priced at €33,451/£28,699 with current customer offers, or €38,172/£32,749. Both models have the added benefit of up to 10 years / 100,000 miles service activated warranty.