Costa Calida 21 - 27 August 2025 Issue 2094

Wine washed

JUMILLA’S streets turned purple once again as the city hosted the 52nd edition of the Gran Cabalgata del Vino (Great Wine Parade), part of the Fiestas de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival). Thousands of litres of red wine, music, and laughter filled the streets, and the hot sun could not slow down the celebration.

The parade, just delayed slightly due to high temperatures, began along Avenida Reyes Católicos at 6.00pm. Brass bands played loudly, inviting everyone to dance, while decorated floats lined up, ready for a friendly wine fight. Participants wearing white shirts knew they would soon be soaked in wine.

This year, 21 local clubs, known as peñas, took part, with each float carrying around 2,000 litres of wine. Speakers and equipment were wrapped in plastic to protect them from the inevitable splashes. Along the four-kilometre route, from Avenida

nida de Murcia, passing through Cánovas del Castillo, Pasos, and Levante, wine was sprayed using boots, hoses, buckets, water guns, and specially pierced bottles, drenching everyone.

The Gran Cabalgata del Vino started more than 50 years ago as a simple way for friends to celebrate the end of the grape harvest and thank the local farmers.

a major event that draws visitors from across the Murcia region, other parts of Spain, and even abroad.

The peñas prepare the wine by collecting it from local wineries before the parade. Bars and restaurants in the area fill with people enjoying the festival atmosphere.

The Great Wine Parade is more than a festival; it is a celebration

Jumilla’s traditions, community, and wine. Every year, it offers a chance for locals and tourists to join in one of Spain’s most colourful harvest celebrations.

Hotel boom

THE Region of Murcia will see a big boost in tourism, with 16 new hotels planned to open over the next three years. These projects will bring more than 700 extra rooms for visitors.

The most eye-catching news is the opening of three five-star hotels. One will be built in Alhama, another in San Pedro del Pinatar, and Murcia City will finally get its first five-star hotel when the Arco de San Juan reopens.

Four more hotels will carry a four-star rating, including new options in Cartagena, Molina de Segura, and Caravaca de la Cruz. There will also be new mid-range choices, with two three-star hotels and one two-star hotel on the way. Tourist apartments are also planned for Cartagena.

Cartagena comes out on top, with four of the new hotels set to open there, strengthening its role as a leading destination on the Murcian coast. Overall, the new hotels are expected to attract more visitors, create jobs, and raise the profile of the region as a quality destination in Spain.

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Luxury hotels coming soon.

Jumilla celebrates Wine Festival.

Coastal life

LIVING in Spain means being part of traditions that bring whole towns together, and Los Alcazares shows this every summer with the Bando Internacional de la Huerta y el Mar. The event is linked to the famous Bando de la Huerta in Murcia City (Murcia’s Harvest Festival), a festival that celebrates farming life, local food, and folklore. In Los Alcazares, it also connects with the sea, making it special to the Mar Menor.

Booking made easy

TOURISTS and expats in the Region of Murcia now have a simpler way to plan trips, thanks to the community’s ARPA and ORIÓN booking platforms. More than 100 local tourism and accommodation businesses are already using these free tools, offered by the Regional Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Sports.

celebration, turning the town centre into a lovely meeting place for the neighbours. The tourists also joined in the fun, delighted and slightly puzzled when they were given free fruit!

The streets were lled with thousands of people as a colourful parade made its way through the town. Floats handed out fruit, vegetables, and regional dishes, while children were given small toys. Music, dancing, and traditional costumes added to the sense of

After the parade, the party continued in Plaza Manuel Floreal Menárguez with an evening of local music. Families and friends stayed out late enjoying the summer night, reminding everyone how festivals here are about more than just entertainment, they are about community.

Events like this show why so many people choose to make coastal towns in Spain their home. They bring people together, share traditions, and create moments that stay with you long after the festival ends.

In the first half of 2025, ORIÓN handled 7,774 bookings for activities like guided tours, boat trips, and local experiences, while ARPA recorded 2,789 accommodation reservations. For visitors, this means fewer phone calls and emails, clear pricing, and the convenience of booking directly online.

Juan Francisco Martínez, director of the Murcia Tourism Institute (Itrem), highlighted the role of local councils in

supporting the digital shift. "These platforms help municipalities offer experiences, manage bookings, and improve visitor services," he said. Currently, 33 councils have adopted them as part of their tourism strategy.

For expats and tourists, ARPA and ORIÓN make it easy to discover local experiences, plan weekend trips, and ex-

plore hidden corners of the region. Reservations can also be made through the official tourism website: www.turismore giondemurcia.es . The platforms also support Murcia’s Smart Tourist Destination goals, improving data use, making services more efficient, and ensuring a smoother experience for everyone visiting the region.

Los Alcazares Town Hall

Local trips simplified.

Community spirit on display.

Widow pensions Spain

Make sure you follow the rules

SPAIN has tightened the rules around widow’s pensions, its second-largest benefit after retirement, with officials running stricter checks, demanding new proof, and even withdrawing payments where conditions aren’t met. The average payout stands at €874 a month, but Social Security’s message is clear: any change in civil status, income, or cohabitation must be reported immediately or recipients risk sanctions and back-payments.

The biggest pitfalls include remarrying or registering a new civil partnership (pareja de hecho), living with a new partner without proper registration, or failing to prove economic dependence on the deceased spouse where required. Advisors are reporting a rise in cases of suspended pensions while beneficiaries scramble to provide documents such as residency certificates, income statements, or registry entries. Authorities warn that if irregularities are found, they have the power to demand repayment of wrongly received sums.

The rules also cover new living arrangements. You can form a household with a new partner and still keep your widow’s pension, but two strict income tests apply. First, the pension must represent at least 75 per cent of your annual income. Second, the combined household income cannot exceed twice the Salario Mínimo Interprofesional (SMI). With the current average payout at €874 per month, claimants are urged to do the maths for their situation and keep proof to hand.

The bottom line: Spain’s clampdown isn’t about trapping be-

neficiaries but ensuring rules are followed. Staying compliant means reporting any changes quickly, keeping documentation organised, and knowing the income thresholds. Those who act proactively can safeguard their widow’s pension, but failing to disclose changes could lead to suspensions, clawbacks, or even permanent loss of entitlement.

Widow’s-pension controls: beneficiaries must report marriages, new partnerships or income changes quickly.

Cash limits

A MAJOR Spanish supermarket chain has responded to frequent customer questions about payment rules by providing clarity on legal limits and store policies through its official online customer service channel.

Spanish law sets a cash payment cap at €999.99, meaning any purchase reaching or exceeding €1,000 must be paid entirely by bank card. The retailer accepts cards with Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro symbols, but American Express is not permitted due to charges the card company imposes on the retailer. Also, for those who have broken into their piggy bank or raided the sofa for loose change under the cushions, only up to 50 coins can be used per transaction, regardless of denomination, following Spanish law.

Mercadona, the supermarket chain led by Juan Roig, also clarified that it does not accept discount coupons or vouchers, nor payment methods such as luncheon vouchers or gourmet cheques, which are restricted to hospitality establishments. This policy is particularly relevant in tourist areas, which may catch some customers off guard.

For international visitors, Mercadona explained that tourists eligible for VAT refunds can process them through the company’s Customer Invoice page online. They must present a passport or foreign residency document, register before payment, and show it at the checkout.

The clarifications are meant to improve and streamline the shopping experience and ensure compliance with Spanish regulations, especially for customers in high-traffic tourist regions.

Grandchildren Law deadline SEPE warning

Application window closes October 22

SPAIN’S Democratic Memory Law, widely known as the Grandchildren Law, is entering its final stretch, with the eligibility window closing on October 22. This provision grants Spanish nationality to descendants of Spaniards, and officials stress that the only way to secure

Creating a usuario consular (consular user) profile before the deadline will lock in your place in the queue, even if your actual appointment is scheduled after the law expires. Miss that date, and your opportunity is gone.

The urgency is real - demand is massive. In Ar-

around 290,000 applications have already been processed from an estimated 1.5 million potential candidates, while global submissions are nearing one million. Consulates like Buenos Aires handle roughly 10,000 appointments a month, meaning delays are inevitable but participation is still within reach if you register on time.

The law applies to grandchildren of Spaniards regardless of whether their ancestors later acquired another nationality, children of those who gain citizenship through this law, and certain great-grandchildren where the grandchild parent has died without claiming. Each case depends on proper documentation, with Spain maintaining its commitment to process every file submitted in time. Applicants must build a chain of official records linking them to their Spanish ancestortypically birth, marriage, and death certificates for each generation, many of which must be recently issued, apostilled, and translated if obtained outside Spain.

SPAIN’S public employment service (SEPE) has issued a clear warning to unemployment benefit claimants: check that your phone number, email and postal address are correct, or risk payment delays, missed appointments and even suspension of your benefits. A single wrong digit or outdated address can block important messages and lead to sanctions. SEPE stresses that being reachable is part of the rules for receiving payments, and mismatches between their records and those of your regional employment office can cause further problems.

The agency uses your contact details to send appointment notifications, compliance reminders and payment updates. If those messages bounce or you fail to respond, SEPE assumes non-compliance, not lack of awareness. That’s why the advice is urgent: update your details as soon as you move or change numbers.

Updating is straightforward. You can check your expediente (benefit file) online or via your last SEPE letter to see what contact details are on record. Report any changes immediately, ideally before moving or activating a new number. Proof of address - such as a rental contract, padrón certificate or recent bill - is usually required if you’ve moved. Keep your details consistent with both SEPE and your regional employment service to avoid mismatches. Saving a screenshot or receipt of your update can serve as proof if issues arise later. Failing to update can trigger sanctions under Spain’s employment law.

Credit : fizkes, Shutterstock

Thousands of descendants applying for citizenship under Spain’s ‘Grandchildren Law’ ahead of the October deadline.

Volunteers needed

A LOCAL dog shelter near El Mirador, San Javier is urgently appealing for volunteers. Protectora Animales Perros del Sol (PAPS), which works to rescue, care for, and rehome abandoned dogs, is struggling to cope due to sudden staff illness.

The small charity, based at Casa del Sol, is looking for people who can spare just one or two hours in the morning or evening. Help is needed with feeding, cleaning, grooming, and walking the dogs.

The current team of dedicated volunteers is doing all they can to keep things running, but extra help is now desperately needed. “Many hands make light work,” a spokesperson said, adding

Help needed at PAPS.

that any support would make a big difference to the dogs’ care and well-being.

Whether you’re a dog lover or simply want to give back to the community, your time could help lighten the load and bring some joy to the animals waiting for their forever homes.

To get involved, contact the shelter through Facebook Messenger or by email at animalesperrosdelsol@hot mail.com. Even just a short visit can go a long way.

Peak tourism

HOTELS along the Costa Calida are enjoying a record-breaking start to August, with 90 per cent of rooms booked during the first two weeks of the month. This is the highest occupancy ever recorded for this period, according to the latest survey from the Region of Murcia’s Tourism Department and the Murcia Tourism Institute (Itrem).

La Manga led the way with 91 per cent of rooms filled, while the Mar Menor followed closely at 89 per cent. Mazarron and Aguilas also saw strong bookings, both reaching 87 per cent.

These numbers reflect a positive trend that the Murcia region has been enjoying throughout 2025.

City tourism is also growing. Hotels in Murcia, Cartagena, and Lorca averaged 67 per cent occupancy, six points higher than the same period last year.

Spa resorts are proving popular too, reaching 88 per cent occupancy, three points up on 2024.

With sunny beaches, charming cities, and a rising spa scene, the Costa Calida is clearly attracting more visitors than ever.

While some UK reports have suggested tourists might be losing interest, the numbers tell a different story: hotels are full, beaches are busy, and visitors are flocking to the region in record numbers!

Senior support

AGE CONCERN COSTA CALIDA, based at the Social Centre on Avenida De Los Covachos, Camposol C Sector, Mazarron, is a non-profit charity dedicated to supporting people over 50. Their focus is simple: help older residents stay connected, make friends, and enjoy life in Spain.

The charity offers a range of activities designed to bring people together, combat loneliness, and create a real sense of community. One of their most popular options is day trips.

On Wednesday August 27, members can enjoy a ‘menu del día’ outing to La Rata in Totana, while on September 16 will

see a trip to Habaneras Shopping Centre with lunch in Quesada. These trips are more than just meals or shopping; they are opportunities to socialise, laugh, and strengthen friendships.

Throughout the year, Age Concern Costa Calida runs many events and activities aimed at keeping older adults active, engaged, and connected with others in the area. Whether it’s a day trip, a local gathering, or simply a friendly chat, the charity helps people feel part of a welcoming community.

For more information or to join in, contact ageconcerncostacalida@gmail.com.

Crafts for MABS

MAZARRON residents are invited to a fundraising event for MABS Mazarron on September 4. The event will be held at the MABS Respite Home on Avenida de Los Covachos from 1.00pm. For €5.50 per person, attendees can enjoy bingo and a traditional afternoon tea. There will also be a craft sale featuring handmade items from local artists, giving visitors the chance to browse and buy unique crafts while supporting a good cause. MABS provides practical help and emotional support to

people diagnosed with cancer. This includes advice, companionship, and assistance to make daily life a little easier during treatment and recovery. All funds raised at the event will go directly to these services. The organisers hope the event will bring the community together. It promises a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where everyone can have fun, meet new people, and support those affected by cancer in the Mazarron area. For more information, contact the MABS Respite Home directly.

Costa Calida in demand.

Undermining unemployment

CARTAGENA’S efforts to reduce unemployment are paying off. According to the regional officials in Cartagena, in July 2025, registered unemployment fell by 160 people compared to June 2025. This drop represents a 1.32 per cent overall decrease, and exceeds the national average by a whopping 0.64 percentage points.

The number is cause for celebration as the figures for Cartagena are well above the reduction recorded across the whole of Spain. Cartagena is an area that greatly affected the national unemployment decline, representing 160 of the 1,357 fewer unemployed people - nearly 12 per cent.

In addition to the welcome decrease, there are favourable numbers for Social Secu-

rity affiliation. Cartagena recorded a total of 69,149 people registered from the latest data, June 2025. This represents an increase of 950 people in just one month, a growth of an incredible 1.39 per cent. The news comes with a sigh of relief from officials, as well as previously unemployed citizens who had been scrambling to find work.

These trends could be attributed to local government bodies’ work to enact practical policies focused on real people and real jobs, according to the Cartagena Town Hall. These include active employment initiatives, training, providing career guidance, making it easier for new employees to integrate, and offering special help aimed at groups that tend to have trouble finding work.

A golden year

CARLOS ALCARAZ lifted another trophy on Monday August 18 after Jannik Sinner was forced to retire in the final of the Cincinnati Masters.

The match ended abruptly with the scoreboard showing 5-0 in Alcaraz’s favour. The 22-year-old from El Palmar had started strongly, breaking Sinner’s serve immediately and dominating the opening games. His aggressive return play left little room for the Italian to settle. But just as the match seemed to be building, Sinner called for medical attention. Looking unwell, he told officials he could not continue, bringing the final to a sudden end.

Despite the unusual finish, Alcaraz adds Cincinnati to a remarkable 2025 season. He has now won titles on every surface, including Roland Ga-

rros, Monte Carlo, Rome, Rotterdam, and Queen’s. This victory further cements his status as one of the best players in the world. After the match, Alcaraz showed sportsmanship by sending a message of support. He signed the TV camera with the words: ‘Sorry,

Jannik’, and wished his opponent a quick recovery. While the final may not be remembered for great rallies, it highlighted the unpredictable nature of tennis.

For Alcaraz, however, it was another milestone in what is proving to be a golden year.

Cartagena’s unemployment rate dropped by 160 people in July.

Photo Credit: Mina Rad via Unsplash

Another title for Alcaraz.

Kawaii craze

A NEW café is about to open in Murcia that is likely to become one of the city’s most photographed spots. Kawaii Café, already popular in Madrid and Oviedo, is bringing rainbow wa es, bear-shaped pancakes, and colourful drinks to the region, all served in a setting designed to be as eye-catching as the menu.

The concept comes from Japan, where themed ‘maid cafés’ are a big part of manga and anime culture. Here, the waitresses wear maidstyle costumes and add a playful, theatrical touch to serving food. Just like in Japan, however, photos of sta are only allowed with permission.

Picnic in the Park

Shutterstock/Soloviova

Beyond the costumes, the real draw is the ‘kawaii’ (meaning ‘cute’) atmosphere. Think plush toys, pastel décor, and plenty of corners perfect for social media snaps. With more than 80,000 followers online, the café chain is built for the Instagram generation, where dining out is as much about the photos as the food.

Murcia has already embraced Japanese culture in recent years through language schools, art workshops, and martial arts classes. Now, Kawaii Café adds another layer, o ering locals and visitors a chance to step into a playful slice of Tokyo without leaving the city.

Historic fort

CARTAGENA’S San Leandro Battery is set to open to visitors before the end of 2025, giving people the chance to explore an important part of the city’s history.

Mayor Noelia Arroyo recently visited the site with archaeologists and heritage experts to see how the restoration is progressing.

The work is bringing the battery back to life. Archaeologists are restoring Casamata 1, original pavements, cannons, ventilation systems, drainage, and even old telephone installations. Visitors will be able to see how the battery functioned and get a sense of its role in defending the city.

San Leandro will be part of the Cartagena Puerto de Culturas network and the ‘De Faro a Faro’ project with the Port Authority, which is improving the city’s wa-

terfront. From the restored roof, visitors will be able to enjoy views of the coast and the surrounding landscape.

Heritage expert José Antonio Martínez said the project is carefully planned, and it is helping Cartagena move closer to nominating its military fortifications for UNESCO World Heritage status.

MABS San Javier, a local cancer support charity, is preparing for its annual Picnic in the Park fundraiser this September. The event will take place on September 14 at 3.00pm at La Zona Terraza in Los Narejos.

The charity supports people living with cancer across the region by providing counselling, translators, transport, medical equipment, and complementary therapies. All funds raised go directly toward helping cancer patients and their families through difficult times.

Tickets for the picnic cost €10 and are now on sale at La Zona and the MABS Charity Shop in San Javier. Organisers recommend buying early, as the event is expected to sell out.

Guests can enjoy live entertainment throu-

ghout the afternoon. You’re welcome to bring your own picnic food or buy from La Zona on the day. However, drinks must be purchased at the venue. There will also be a raffle and tombola, with all proceeds supporting the charity’s work.

This popular annual event is a great opportunity to have fun and support a worthy cause at the same time.

For more information, email sjpublicity@mabs cancerfoundation.org or visit MABS San Javier on Facebook.

Murcia joins kawaii trend.

Images: kawaiicafe.es

Picnic fundraiser for MABS.

Image:

Liudmyla

NEWS Travel

Benagil - coastal cliffs, sea caves, and Algarve viewpoints

BENAGIL is a small fishing village on Portugal’s southern coast. Though once little-known, it has become increasingly popular due to the nearby sea cave known as Algar de Benagil - a natural rock formation with a circular skylight and beach inside. The area is defined by steep limestone cliffs, clear water, and a series of coves and inlets. While the village itself is small, it serves as a convenient base for coastal walks, boat tours, and time on the beach.

The village itself is not suitable for large vehicles, so parking further out and walking or cycling in is recommended. There is a campervan parking area near the cliffs above Benagil Beach, and several nearby beaches also have parking areas that accommodate outside of peak hours.

Food and local products

There are a few local restaurants and cafés offering grilled fish, rice, and simple Portuguese dishes. More choice is available in nearby towns such as Lagoa or Carvoeiro. Along the coast, seasonal beach bars open from spring to early autumn, serving snacks, drinks, and fresh local produce. Supermarkets and shops for supplies are best found a short drive inland.

When to visit

The best time to visit Benagil is between late April and early October. During these months, the weather is warm, the sea is calmer, and boat tours run daily. July and August are the busiest, with high temperatures and heavy foot traffic. Early summer and early autumn have a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer crowds and still-pleasant weather.

What to do

Visitors typically focus on hiking, swimming, and taking photographs of the sea cave and surrounding cliffs. Kayak and stand-up

paddleboard rentals are available directly from the beach, and boat tours can vary in length and cost, but most include multiple stops and commentary on local geology. Swimming is best at Benagil Beach itself or at the less crowded Praia do Carvalho, a short walk away.

Above the cliffs, there is a coastal path that connects Benagil to Praia da Marinha and other bea-

SUMMARY

Benagil is not a large destination, but for travellers interested in coastal scenery, short hikes, and ocean access, it is a convenient and scenic stop. Planning ahead helps, especially during high season, but the area is manageable and accessible

Wildlife wonders

Pinatar is getting a big upgrade, with two new exhibition rooms opening soon, one focused on the Mar Menor and the other on the Regional Park.

The Mar Menor room promises an immersive experience where visitors can learn about Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon through interactive displays, models, games, and short videos. One highlight is the ‘Feel Like Them’ feature, which lets you experience how environmental changes, like water pollution, affect the lagoon’s plants and animals.

A special section is dedicated to the endangered Pinna nobilis, a large shellfish whose population in the Mar Menor is one

of only two in Spain. Visitors will learn about its life, the risks it faces, and the efforts to protect it.

The second room brings the Regional Park to life with updated displays that keep iconic features like the windmill and ‘marine treasures’ but present them in a fresh, modern way.

Both rooms will have multilingual guides and materials, making it easy for international visitors to enjoy. The €163,000 project, funded by the regional government and the European Regional Development Fund, aims to connect visitors with nature, raise awareness about the lagoon’s fragile ecosystem, and make the centre a must-visit spot.

Illegal rentals

THE Region of Murcia is stepping up efforts to tackle illegal tourist rental apartments, although the problem is less widespread here than in places like Barcelona or Malaga.

So far in 2025, the Murcia Tourism Institute (Itrem) has identified 223 unregistered or irregular listings and opened 10 sanction proceedings. These inspections are part of a wider campaign to make sure tourists have access to safe and regulated accommodation.

Officials check online platforms for apartments and holiday homes that either lack a registration number, provide incorrect information, or have not submitted the required legal documentation. Nearly 200 on-site inspections have also been carried out this year to verify compliance with tourism regulations.

When applying for a tourist licence, Itrem ensures that tourist rentals meet

safety standards, including fire prevention measures. They assess the apartment to determine how many guests it can comfortably accommodate and check that cleanliness and essential services are up to standard.

Murcia is also working closely with platforms like Airbnb. In February, a collaboration agreement was signed, requiring the

platform to block listings without a valid registration number, in line with the region’s tourism laws.

Since 2023, Itrem’s monitoring office has detected over 1,200 unregulated holiday rentals on major online platforms. The region continues to strengthen oversight to guarantee a quality and legally compliant tourism offer for visitors.

THE Las Salinas Visitor Centre in San Pedro del

Discover the Mar Menor

Image: Shutterstock/ Anetlanda

Cracking down on rentals.

La Oliva 80s Musical COSTA CALIDA

CARTAGENA will host one of Spain’s most popular musicals on September 13, at the Auditorio Parque Torres. The show, which has already attracted over 300,000 spectators nationwide, promises a night of singing, dancing, and nostalgia.

The musical takes the audience back to the best years of their lives, with a story centred on a group of high school friends reuniting at a bar. The performance features more than 40 hit songs from the 1980s and 1990s, bringing unforgettable memories to life.

Audiences can expect a mix of laughter, energy, and classic tunes from

Spain’s famous Gran Vía theatre scene.

The show’s goal is simple: to make everyone happy while enjoying an entertaining evening.

Tickets are available online at lagranentrada.com. The performance starts at 9.00pm, attendees a chance to experience a full night of music, fun, and nostalgia.

Fans of the 80s and 90s won’t want to miss this chance to relive the decade’s biggest hits in a memorable setting.

With its proven popularity across Spain, this musical is a must-see for anyone wanting to enjoy a night filled with classic songs, dance, and good memories.

LA OLIVA opened its doors this April in Mar de Cristal, Cartagena, and it hasn’t taken long for word to spread. Recently awarded a Solete Guía Repsol 2025, the restaurant is already being noticed for its mix of Mediterranean cooking and creative flair.

Chef Sevas Betancourt leads the kitchen, bringing home the experience he built up over more than a decade abroad. His career began in London and later took him to the kitchens of Eneko Atxa, Ana Ros, Juan Mari Arzak, and Dabiz Muñoz. Back in Cartagena, he is combining everything he learned with local produce and a love for bold flavours.

One of the best spots in the restaurant is the terrace, which looks straight out to the Mediterranean. It’s a setting that makes a dish like tuna rib rice or their playful take on the Spanish aperitivo, green olives, piparras, and mackerel in vinegar, taste even better. And for dessert, the lime pie is already getting plenty of attention.

La Oliva opens Tuesday to Saturday from midday until late into the night, and on Sundays until 9pm. Aperitivos start at noon, lunch is served from 1 to 4pm, and dinner runs from 7 to 10.30pm. Mondays are their day of rest. How to reserve

La Oliva, C/ Pintor Rosales 1, Mar de Cristal, Cartagena Bookings: 600 821 260

Music Night

EL BAR SC in San Cayetano is hosting its August Music Night on Saturday, August 30, with Sean Holsgrove back on stage. The evening starts with food from 7.00 to 7.30pm, including a Ploughman’s Platter and a selection of mini desserts. The music kicks off at 7.30pm, giving ever-

yone a chance to enjoy live entertainment and dance to Sean Holsgrove’s performance.

Tickets cost €12, and anyone wanting to attend is advised to reserve a table in advance by calling 0034 711 030 590.

El Bar SC, located at Tarquinales 11, is known for its home-made food

and drinks, making it a popular spot in San Cayetano. The August Music Night is part of the bar’s regular events, combining live music with good food for a relaxed evening out. Whether you are local or just visiting, it’s a chance to enjoy an evening of music and dining in the town.

Relive the 80s hits. Images:

Mediterranean on a plate.

Sean Holsgrove live night.

Your

Does climate change worry you? VOICE

CLIMATE change refers to longterm shifts in global or regional climate patterns, largely attributed to human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. Scientists report rising global temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, and changes in ecosystems, which could affect societies and economies.

To understand how these developments are perceived, we asked our readers whether climate change worries them. Climate change sparks strong opinions worldwide, and our readers were no exception. The responses revealed a division of views and the reasons behind them.

Some respondents were unconcerned. Denis Taylor wrote, “84 years old and lived through climate change every year but I like to call it Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.” Jeff Bridges commented, “No, it’s called unpredictable weather.”

Others framed it as a natural phenomenon, with David Egner noting, “No. The planet’s 4.6 billion years old and this isn’t the first time the climate’s changed and the planet’s still here.”

Many expressed doubts about the motivations behind climate change discussions. Jason Latham suggested the issue provides “governments another poor excuse to tax us to death.” Les Nunn echoed this perspective, calling climate change,

“a massive con just like all the ridiculous things governments have tried to scare us with in the past.”

Some attributed climate change to broader conspiracies. Anthony Harris wrote, “The climate is being manipulated before your own eyes,” while Neil Ross called it, “A bigger scam than the plandemic.”

Others, like John Jenkins , expressed concern, especially “for future generations.” Angela Edgley noted, “Climate change is very disruptive to everyday life… Much of it is a man-made occurrence because nature is being messed with.” Sian Foster stated the need for more awareness and informed action, saying that we should “plant more” and have “green spaces rather than asphalt and concrete.”

Some readers shared more personal feelings. Jacqueline Treadaway wrote simply, “TERRIFIED,” while Dorina Cathy said, “Duh, of course it does!” Deb Horses , reflecting on her age, wrote, “At my age, you worry about blood clots, heart attacks, your last visit to the oncologist… you don’t worry about what you can’t change.”

In summary, opinions were divided. The majority said they are not worried, but several find it to be a serious issue. Others gave longer responses pointing to natural cycles, government agendas, or future concerns. While views differ, it is clear that climate change continues to engage and divide readers.

Climate change discussion sparks diverse opinions.

Photo credit: Markus Spiske on Unsplash

GERMANY

Cheeky theft

IN Salzwedel, thieves have stolen the bronze backside from the famous ‘Puparschbierbrunnen’ - literally ‘Bottom Beer Fountain’ - a statue of a man bending over with beer flowing from a keg on his back. The fountain has been a well-known quirky landmark for decades. Police are currently investigating.

Cash bounty

VICTIMS of a daring bank heist in Lübeck last December are offering an extraordinary reward of €240,000 in cash, gold and Krugerrands for information leading to the four men who broke into 371 safe-deposit boxes worth more than €18 million at Deutsche Bank. Earlier, prosecutors had offered only €5,000, with no result.

PORTUGAL ITALY FRANCE DENMARK BELGIUM

Jagger’s journey

ROLLING STONES frontman Mick Jagger, 82, has been spotted holidaying across Portugal, from the streets of Lisbon to the surf town of Nazaré, the historic city of Coimbra and the riverfront of Porto. Travelling with family, he took in local sights, met fans and posed for photos during his summer tour of the country.

Wine tariffs

PORTUGUESE wine producers warn that a planned 15 per cent US tariff could result in a 30 per cent price rise for consumers. Lower-priced bottles are expected to be most affected, and industry figures fear that if importers push down producer prices in response, the consequences could be particularly severe for smaller wineries.

NORWAY

Oslo outbreak

A HEPATITIS A outbreak in Oslo has been traced to the popular Frognerseteren restaurant, which remains closed following the cases. To date, 22 cases have been reported, 12 genetically confirmed, among patrons who consumed food there between mid-June and August 2. Local health services are offering vaccinations to anyone potentially exposed.

Cheaters charged

SKI jumpers Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang, along with three team officials, have been charged with ski suit tampering at the World Championships in Trondheim. FIS says reinforced thread was used, but the athletes deny knowledge. Both were disqualified in March and suspended. The ethics committee’s ruling is pending.

EURO PRESS

NETHERLANDS

Lafufu bust

SINCE March, Dutch customs officers have seized approximately 400,000 counterfeit Labubu dolls, predominantly at Schiphol Airport. These fake versions, dubbed ‘Lafufu’, are of inferior quality and pose safety risks, including choking hazards due to detachable parts and potential exposure to harmful chemicals.

Credit: Enjoy The Life / Shutterstock

Wedding refund

COPENHAGEN Municipality has been ordered to refund nearly 23 million kroner (around €3,082,000) to more than 12,000 primarily foreign couples who were incorrectly charged wedding fees at City Hall since 2018. The charges - up to 4,500 kroner - were only lawful for ceremonies held outside the hall.

Canine risk

A NEW Danish study shows that wild carnivores such as foxes, badgers and mink can carry canine distemper virus, which poses a threat to farmed and domestic animals. It’s highly contagious among carnivores, but cannot be transmitted to humans, underscoring the importance of vaccination for dogs and biosecurity for vulnerable species.

Kit copycat

BRITISH designer Diana Al Shammari has accused Belgian football club Beerschot of copying her floral embroidery design featured on their new limited-edition kit. The sportswear company Nova, which produced the shirt, denies wrongdoing, stating they contacted her for collaboration but received no response.

Bikini brawl

TWO women from Brussels, aged 19 and 21, are set to appear in court after allegedly attacking police officers in Blankenberge for violating a local bikini ban. During their arrest, one struck an officer, and another was slightly injured. A minor accompanying them was released without charge. They face charges of resisting arrest and assault.

FINLAND SWEDEN

Spirit slump

ALCOHOL consumption in Finland is declining, while interest in alcohol-free options is rising. In July, state-owned retailer Alko saw a 65 per cent increase in non-alcoholic drink sales from July 2024. Wine sales fell about 5 per cent, spirits 8.2 per cent, and overall sales volume dropped 2.5 per cent year-on-year.

Veteran’s gift

THE University of Eastern Finland has received its largest-ever donation - more than €3 million - from the estate of a late farmer and war veteran. The gift will be used to support research and education, with the university establishing a dedicated fund in his name to honour his legacy.

Illegal cargo

A 53-YEAR-OLD man has been sentenced to one year in prison in Sweden after police found about 750,000 illegal cigarettes and 198 litres of spirits in his car. The cigarettes, lacking Swedish health warnings, carried an estimated tax value of over 1.5 million kronor (around €134,208.69), according to Dagens Juridik.

Sea treasure

THEO WANDERYDZ, 31, a screenwriter from Gothenburg, lost his ring in the sea earlier this summer while visiting the Bohuslän coast. Despite searches, it seemed gone for good until it was later found attached to a sea star by a diver. The discovery, quickly shared on social media, drew widespread attention for its unusual and whimsical nature.

Charity ride

A 20-YEAR-OLD student from Lyon, Maxime Jerez, cycled an ambitious 1,100 km from Palavas-les-Flots to Calais in just three days to honour his late grandmother and raise funds for cancer research. “No stress, just excitement,” he said before setting off, supporting the Ligue contre le cancer with €5 donated for every kilometre.

Pigeon control

THE town of Suresnes has introduced an animal-friendly method to curb its pigeon population: since early August a dispenser on Place Henri IV has provided pigeons with corn kernels coated in a reversible contraceptive gel each morning. The €19,000 initiative aims to reduce pigeon births by 30 per cent to 80 per cent, without harming other wildlife.

Pageant outrage

IN Italy’s Campania region, a 13-year-old girl appeared on the Miss Italia ‘Mascotte’ catwalk, wearing a bikini and high heels, despite the minimum age being 18. The incident, spotlighted by journalist Selvaggia Lucarelli, sparked outrage and prompted the immediate dismissal of the regional representative.

Italian roots

COMEDIAN and US host Jimmy Kimmel has obtained Italian citizenship through his maternal ancestry, saying it offers him ‘options’ for the future. Speaking on The Sarah Silverman Podcast, he noted the move came earlier this year and hinted he might spend more time in Europe, depending on how political events unfold in the US.

IRELAND

Bar blaze

A MAN in his 20s has been arrested in connection with a fire at Conor McGregor’s pub, the Black Forge Inn, in Dublin. The incident occurred on July 25, when a flammable liquid was used to set fire to the pub’s front. The suspect was apprehended by the Gardaí’s Special Detective Unit and remains in custody. Investigations are ongoing.

Sports solidarity

SPORTING legends from various disciplines have rallied behind a fundraising campaign, ‘Stand For Féile,’ to support a young Cork girl who tragically lost both her legs in a farm accident. The initiative has garnered widespread support from the sports community to aid Féile O’Sullivan’s recovery and future care.

Madrid’s Blue Card

MADRID’S Tarjeta Azul, or ‘Blue Card’, is transforming daily life for thousands of the city’s residents - offering unlimited public transport across Metro Zone A and most bus routes for just €3.70 a month. It’s not a secret hack, but a city-run scheme aimed squarely at those who need support the most: pensioners, people with disabilities, and anyone scraping by on a tight income. Right now, the card’s usual price is even lower than normal, thanks to a temporary 40 per cent discount, meaning you can cross the capital all month long for less than the cost of a single café con leche.

Who qualifies? The Blue Card is strictly for Madrid residents who are officially registered on the city census and fall below

certain income thresholds set by Spain’s IPREM index. This includes people over 65, younger pensioners aged 60-65, and those with significant disabilities. For minors with disabilities or people legally incapacitated, eligibility is automatic, and the income limit is higher for those with greater needs.

If you’re not sure whether you fit the bill, the process for checking is surprisingly painless - either online with a digital ID or in person at your neighbourhood Citizen Attention Office.

Applying for the Blue Card is refreshingly straightforward: upload or provide a photo, proof of income, ID, and residency, and you could have the card in your mailbox within a month.

Worst wildfires on record

SPAIN is fighting its worst wildfires in history, scorching nearly 120,000 hectares across Asturias, Castilla y Leon, Extremadura, and Galicia, claiming four lives, including a firefighter killed in a fire engine accident. The fires, fuelled by a relentless heatwave with temperatures expected to hit 45ºC, have overwhelmed emergency teams, leading Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to cut short his Canary Islands holiday and seek assistance from other countries.

The blazes have disrupted transportation, closing 16 roads, including the N-621 between Leon and Cantabria, and suspending the Madrid-Galicia high-speed rail line due to unsafe conditions in Ourense. Firefighters and Spain’s Military Emergency Unit battled multiple fires amid extreme weather, with strong winds and high temperatures complicating efforts.

Sánchez, criticised for his delayed response, visited a coordination centre in Ou-

rense and Leon, calling for a ‘grand state pact’ to bolster Spain’s climate disaster preparedness. He urged unity beyond partisan divides to address the climate emergency. King Felipe visited the Military Emergency Unit headquarters in

Madrid to support frontline efforts.

The fires have devastated communities, with stories of loss highlighting the human toll. Residents and psychologists emphasise that beyond statistics, entire towns have been ravaged.

Mediterranean ‘bathwater’

THE Mediterranean Sea is boiling like never before, with Spanish buoys in Mallorca and Menorca recording water temperatures above 30°C in mid-August. Scientists warn this marine heatwave is among the strongest on record, threatening marine life, fuelling jellyfish blooms along beaches, and raising the risk of violent late-summer storms.

Two buoys in the Balearics have logged Caribbean-like readings: 30.86°C at Dragonera (Mallorca) and 31.24°C at Mahon (Menorca) on August 13, measured three metres below the surface. These values confirm a renewed heatwave across the Mediterranean, with anomalies spreading from Spain to France and Italy.

Spain’s buoy network paints a clear picture. Mid-August sea temperatures include Tarragona

28.91°C, Cabo de Palos 27.55°C, Malaga 27.20°C, Cabo de Gata 26.76°C, and Cabo de Begur 26.48°C. After weeks offline, the Valencia buoy returned with 29°C on August 17, its annual high.

A stubborn high-pressure ridge has blocked the cooling Tramontana winds, leaving calm seas to soak up heat. Thirty-degree waters are not

unheard of in the Med, but multiple buoys sustaining such levels for days is unusual. The Mediterranean is warming faster than the global ocean average, making heatwaves like this longer and stronger.

Forecasts show the hot spell persisting through this week, with a slow cool-down into late August.

Madrid’s distinctive blue city buses.

Credit : brunocoelho, Shutterstock

Spanish buoys top 30°C as a fresh marine heatwave grips the sea.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Hiring gap

ONLY 16 per cent of UK firms recruit ex-offenders, research by DSA Connect shows. More than half of reoffenders struggled to find work after release, with 61 per cent blaming this for returning to crime. Skills shortages mean businesses are missing valuable hires.

Recycling reform

ONLINE UK marketplaces must now share recycling costs for electrical waste under new rules, creating a fairer system for domestic retailers. The changes target items from washing machines to vapes, aiming to boost recycling, cut fly-tipping, and make a more sustainable economy.

Biomass boost

ENSO has secured €165 million to build two biomass plants in Spain, supplying energy to ACOR in Olmedo and Solvay in Torrelavega. The projects will cut more than 400,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, with financing led by Santander, MUFG, Natixis, Bank of America, and Cajamar.

Eco-Park launch

PUERTO RICAN firm Toroverde will open its first European mountain eco-park in Cuenca, Spain, in 2027. The €90m project, expanding to €118m over six years, will feature Europe’s longest zip line, immersive trails, and an eco-resort, aiming for 280,000 visitors in year one.

Nuclear AI

ROLLS-ROYCE says powering AI data centres with its small modular reactors (SMRs) could make it the UK’s most valuable company. Deals for six SMRs in the Czech Republic and three in the UK are planned, targeting a trillion-dollar global market by 2050.

STAT OF WEEK

119,811

Spain’s population increased by during the second quarter of 2025, standing at 49,315,949 on July 1.

Binance and BBVA

BINANCE, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, is partnering with Spanish banking giant BBVA to let customers store their assets with the bank instead of directly on the exchange, according to the Financial Times .

The move comes as Binance faces intense global regulatory scrutiny following a record $4.3 billion (€3.69 billion) fine from US authorities in February for violating anti-money laundering laws and international sanctions.

Its founder, Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao, was sentenced to four months in prison for failing to prevent money laundering.

Under the deal, BBVA will act as an independent custodian - essentially a trusted third party - safeguarding client assets in case Binan -

ce faces security breaches, bankruptcy, or further legal action.

As Spain’s second-largest bank, praised for innovation and sustainability, BBVA is heavily regulated and required to meet strict compliance rules. This could reassure

UK hiring activity

UK hiring activity dropped sharply in June, with permanent job placements falling at their fastest pace in almost two years, according to the latest KPMG and REC UK Report on Jobs.

At the same time, the supply of candidates surgedthe steepest increase since November 2020 - amid reports of redundancies and weaker demand for workers.

“Ongoing geopolitical turbulence and the threat of

€230m fund

SPAIN’S Regional Resilience Fund has committed €230 million, via loans from NextGenerationEU, to finance projects through A&G (€130 million) and Urbania Alpha (€100 million). Part of the country’s Recovery Plan, the funding will support affordable housing, sustainable tourism, green mobility, waste and water management, plus energy efficiency. The European Investment Bank will monitor compliance with environmental and social criteria, with investments due by December 2030. This latest agreement brings total financing under the EIB’s new mechanism to €640 million.

wary investors still reeling from the collapse of rival exchange FTX in 2022.

Banks are far more tightly regulated than crypto exchanges, and BBVA’s involvement could encourage more cautious investors to enter the digital asset market.

rising costs, alongside the promise of technology efficiencies, mean companies continue to wait and see with their hiring,” said Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner at KPMG.

Morocco’s air taxis

MOROCCO is stepping into the fast-growing air taxi market, hoping to join forces with Spain and the UK to produce next-generation electric aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL).

The proposed partnership would see British firm, Vertical Aerospace, and Spanish aeronautics giant, Aciturri Aerostructures, work alongside Morocco.

Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 will carry four passengers and one pilot, with a range of over 150 kilometres and a cruising speed of 240 km/h.

Plans in Spain could see air taxis operating routes such as Malaga–Marbella, Ronda, or even Ceuta and Melilla.

John Lewis Beauty

JOHN LEWIS is investing millions into six new Beauty Halls across the UK, starting with a redesigned Liverpool store that will act as a blueprint for national rollout. The 16,000 sq ft space - expanded by almost 40 per cent - houses 132 premium brands, including Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty, and features ‘sensory spaces’ for treatments and consultations. Stores in Bluewater, Solihull, and Cambridge will follow by late 2025. Chief commercial officer Vikki Kavanagh said stores are the ‘physical heartbeat of the brand’ and destinations for discovery, part of an £800 million wider commitment as beauty sales rise 40 per cent in five years.

FC BARCELONA has refinanced €424 million of Espai Barça debt, originally due in 2028, into a new structure repayable from 2033 to 2050 at an average cost of 5.19 per cent, in collaboration with Goldman Sachs. The move, ahead of schedule, reduces the risk premium by almost half compared to 2023 and follows a Morningstar DBRS outlook upgrade to ‘positive’. Funding for the €1.45 billion stadium project remains without mortgaging assets or costing members.

BUSINESS GROWTH FUND (BGF) has made its first investment under the £300 million Invest in Women Taskforce pledge, backing Northern Ireland’s CWC Group, a specialist care provider founded by Monica Byrne and Imelda McGrady in 1983. Now led by Aisling and Shauna Byrne, CWC operates seven sites. The funding will support acquisitions and service expansion. Backed by major UK banks, BGF has invested £500 million in female-led scaleups over five years, as part of its £3 billion UK-wide growth commitment.

THE share of UK working-age adults reporting a disability surged to 24.8 per cent in 2024 - 3.9 million more than a decade ago - with the sharpest rise among young women citing mental health issues (Economics Observatory). Disabled people’s employment rate is 54 per cent, nearly 30 points lower than non-disabled peers, with a 12 per cent hourly pay gap. The trend is straining public finances, raising welfare costs, and increasing demands for workplace adjustments and inclusive employment policies.

Binance and Bitcoin.

Stressed office worker.

3I Group 3.963,00 3.998,00 3.962,00 114,92K Admiral Group 3.562,0 3.592,0 3.544,0 24,63K

Airtel Africa 216,40 217,60 215,60 137,8K Anglo American 2.149,0 2.175,6 2.135,0 154,95K Antofagasta 2.134,00 2.134,00 2.098,00 105,52K

Ashtead Group 5.282,5 5.332,0 5.264,0 41,82K Associated British Foods 2.268,0 2.285,0 2.266,0 34,84K AstraZeneca 11.716,0 11.724,0 11.642,0 127,55K Auto Trader Group Plc 810,40 811,40 806,00 40,9K Aviva 662,80 671,51 661,40 603,51K

B&M European Value Retail SA 224,90 226,00 224,00 275,76K

BAE Systems 1.796,00 1.801,50 1.774,00 755,44K Barclays 367,85 372,25 366,75 3,91M Barratt Redrow 375,59 376,90 374,30 307,02K

Beazley 783,50 785,00 775,50 292,74K

Berkeley 3.794,0 3.810,0 3.782,0 19,08K

BP 420,90 421,85 418,65 2,57M

British American Tobacco 4.243,0 4.249,0 4.228,0 193,86K BT Group 213,10 213,50 212,30 1,09M

2.288,0 2.296,0 2.278,0 53,78K

164,90 167,59 164,30 961,67K

Cola HBC AG 3.892,0 3.900,0 3.884,0 23,51K

2.579,00 2.598,06 2.578,00 67,52K

Group 229,20 229,20 227,40 175,44K

4.757,2 4.762,0 4.710,0 27,84K

879,25 888,40 878,40

Bingo blunder

GALA BINGO UK players were left angry after a glitch wrongly credited over £1.6m in winnings during its Summer Nights promotion. Some withdrew funds before being told of the error. The Gambling Commission is investigating, while Gala cites terms allowing voided payouts after malfunctions.

Top choice

SPAIN is Europe’s top summer holiday choice, with 13 per cent of travellers picking it - up five points on last year, says the European Travel Commission. Most plan to spend €1,500–€2,500 per person, with September breaks and lesser-known destinations growing in popularity.

Tether and Bit2Me

TETHER, the world’s largest company in the digital assets industry, has acquired a minority equity stake in Bit2Me, Spain’s leading Spanish-speaking cryptocurrency platform, as part of a €30 million funding round.

This deal comes shortly after Bit2Me became the first Spanish-speaking exchange to receive authorisation from Spain’s CNMV as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider under the EU’s new Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). This licence allows the company to operate legally

Iberdrola’s EV charging

IBERDROLA Spain has launched the first electric vehicle charging points under a contract with Murcia City Council to install 190 across the city. The inaugural stations, on Avenida de los Pinos, include fast (50 kW) and semi-fast (22 kW) chargers, all powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. “This public-private partner-

ship... helps to promote emission-free transport,” said Enrique Planells, Iberdrola’s regional Key Accounts Manager (Atalayar). Users can locate, reserve, and pay via Iberdrola’s app, with card payments available on fast chargers. Iberdrola operates Spain’s largest EV network, with over 9,500 public points.

across all 27 EU member states.

Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino said, “Bit2Me has consistently demonstrated its commitment to building compliant, secure, and intuitive infrastructure for the digital asset ecosystem. We’re proud to support Bit2Me as they help shape the future of regulated crypto services in Europe and beyond.”

Founded in 2014, Bit2Me has over 1.2 million users and serves more than 7,000 companies, with transaction volumes exceeding €3 billion in 2025 so far.

Bit2Me’s co-founder Andrei Manuel said, “Welcoming a global leader like Tether into our shareholding structure is a transformational moment for Bit2Me. With their backing, we aim to accelerate our leadership in Europe and Latin America, markets that are just beginning to unlock the power of decentralised finance.”

Entain’s results

ENTAIN reported strong H1 2025 results, with UK and Ireland online Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) up 21 per cent and Spain seeing double-digit online growth. Group EBITDA rose 11 per cent to £583m. An interim dividend of 9.8p per share, up 5 per cent, will be paid on September 29.

BELARUS confirms release in Spain of its citizens subjected to labour exploitation. Press Secretary Ruslan Varankov said the embassy in Madrid is working closely with Spanish law enforcement and will offer consular and legal support.

Once investigations conclude, the freed individuals will be safely repatriated. The Foreign Ministry will continue monitoring the situation.

Spain’s leading Spanish-speaking cryptocurency platform.

Credit: PJ McDonnell, Shutterstock

Neanderthal Valley

A NEW excavation is underway in Madrid’s Pinilla del Valle, known as the ‘Valley of the Neanderthals’, a site that has already produced remarkable finds, including a half-million-year-old human molar and a Neanderthal ‘trophy room’ suggesting ritual behaviour.

More than 100 archaeologists and palaeontologists are now digging into a sector never before explored, hoping to refine the chronology of cave use, better date stone tool traditions, and shed new light on population shifts between Neanderthals and early modern humans. The campaign runs until mid-September, after which guided visits for the public are expected to resume.

The importance of Pinilla del Valle lies in its unique combination of deep chronology and symbolic traces. Past campaigns revealed a 480,000-500,000-year-old human

tooth, the oldest yet recovered in Madrid, and an arrangement of animal skulls in Cueva Des-Cubierta that made global headlines as evidence of Neanderthal symbolic behaviour.

These discoveries placed the site alongside Atapuerca, Guadix-Baza and Aroeira as one of Iberia’s key Ice-Age references, making it the only site in Madrid with hominin remains predating Homo sapiens.

The new trench could prove equally decisive. Researchers are investigating whether early Upper Palaeolithic layers belong to the Aurignacian or Gravettian periods and are expected to release initial results later this autumn, with detailed studies to follow.

For visitors, the wait is short: public tours will reopen once the field season concludes, offering a first glimpse at what could be another chapter in rewriting Iberia’s deep past.

No independence for youths

IN Spain, a significant proportion of young adults continue to live with their parents, driven largely by low salaries and soaring housing costs. Recent data reveals that approximately 45 per cent of Spaniards aged up to 31 years remain in the family home, a figure that highlights ongoing economic and social challenges facing the country’s youth.

The root causes are clear. Wage growth in Spain has been relatively stagnant for years, particularly for young workers entering the labour market. According to official statistics from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE), many young adults earn incomes that are insufficient to afford independent living. Meanwhile, the cost of renting or buying a home has surged dramatically in many urban areas, further complica-

ting the ability of young people to move out.

Housing prices in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have risen steeply, driven by demand, limited supply, and rising interest rates. Rental costs, in particular, have become prohibitive for many young workers, whose earnings have not kept pace with inflation and market trends. This disparity has made it increasingly difficult for young people to achieve the traditional milestone of moving out

and establishing their own households.

The economic pressures are compounded by the precarious nature of youth employment. Many young Spaniards face temporary contracts, part-time work, or underemployment, which undermines financial stability and long-term planning. This job insecurity discourages commitments such as signing rental agreements or mortgages, leading to a greater tendency to stay in the parental home.

Cheap supermarkets

FOOD inflation has turned the weekly grocery run into a financial headache, but a new study by Spain’s consumer group OCU shows families can fight back simply by choosing the right supermarket. Researchers tracked 155,489 prices for 236 products across 1,108 stores in 65 cities, finding that households could save around €1,056 a year - nearly 17.5 per cent of their food budget - by shopping at the cheapest chains.

The study ranked Family Cash, Alcampo, Supeco, Consum and Mercadona as Spain’s most affordable supermarkets. These retailers consistently kept baskets cheaper, especially through own-brand ranges. But the report also stressed that location matters: the gap between the lowest and highest bills within the same chain is particularly sharp in cities such as Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona. That means shoppers in urban areas could pocket even bigger savings by being selective about where they buy.

OCU notes that the average basket is now 14.1 per cent more expensive than

Price-checking in the aisles.

last year and up 30.8 per cent compared with 2022. Essentials like sugar and condensed milk have spiked, while items such as sunflower oil and Canary bananas have eased, but the overall climb leaves many households squeezed.

Most savings come from swapping to store brands for pantry staples, dairy and cleaning products, where the difference to big-name labels is minimal. The key is combining supermarket choice with smarter habits: planning meals around real promotions, sticking to a list, splitting the shop across chains, freezing leftovers and resisting impulse buys.

Field team working at the new Pinilla del Valle dig.

Credit : X - Comunidad de Madrid @ComunidadMadrid

Unless cohabiting, independence is near impossible.

Photo credits: Freepik

Madrid pharmacy shake-up

MADRID’S pharmacies are on the verge of a major transformation - and if you’ve ever raced the clock for a prescription or cursed the ‘closed’ sign at 9pm, the changes are set to be a lifesaver. New regional plans will soon let many chemists across Madrid open longer hours, with some even operating 24/7. Whether it’s a midnight migraine, a weekend emergency, or just a late-night need for essentials, these extended hours will ensure help is always close at hand.

The overhaul doesn’t stop there. In a bid to make healthcare more accessible for everyone, the new rules mean that home delivery will become standard for those who need it most. Forget scrambling for a neighbour or paying extrayour medication can be delivered right

Pharmacies preparing to extend their hours.

to your door by trusted pharmacy staff, at no additional cost.

Rural areas and small villages aren’t being left behind, either. While tiny chemists won’t be forced into non-stop shifts, every region will have a plan to guarantee you can always get what you need, no matter the hour.

Another win for patients: Madrid’s pharmacies will now offer personalised pill organisers, helping you keep track of your medicines - no more confusion about which pill to take when. And for those holiday headaches (literally), at least half of all pharmacies in each area will stay open on public holidays.

All of this is set to kick off in early 2026, with the regional government finalising the details over the coming months.

Giant Christ statue

BOADILLA DEL MONTE, a town just outside Madrid, could soon host the world’s largest statue of Christ, surpassing Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer and Poland’s Christ the King.

The proposed ‘Sacred Heart’ monument would stand 37 metres tall, with a 60-metre wingspan, and house a 2.5-metre tabernacle heart.

Designed by Madrid sculptor Javier Viver, it would be built with a reinforced concrete torso and head, and carbon-fibre arms. Visitors could enter the structure, making it both a landmark and a pilgrimage site.

The project’s €17 million budget will be funded entirely through donations, with €5 million targeted via crowdfunding before construction begins.

So far, just over €94,000 has been pledged. The initiative, led by the Asocia-

ción de Devotos del Corazón de Jesús de Boadilla, is now in its first phase - finalising designs, fundraising and preparing logistics.

If funding is secured, building would take around three years, aiming for a June 2030 unveiling.

Organisers describe it as ‘a courageous invitation to hope’ and pledge to dedicate 10 per centy of future donations to charity.

Supporters see the statue as a ‘beacon of recon-

ciliation’ that could boost tourism, create jobs and put Boadilla on the global pilgrimage map. But critics question the priorities of spending millions on a religious monument during a housing crisis and budget pressures in health and education.

There are also practical concerns over traffic, visitor facilities, environmental impact and who will fund the necessary infrastructure.

Credit : AntonioAC, Shutterstock

Concept image of the planned Sacred Heart statue.

Scorpions up close

SPAIN is home to several scorpion species, most of which are small and relatively harmless to humans. While their presence can surprise locals and visitors, understanding their behaviour, habitats, and safety measures helps minimise risk.

Scorpions are found mainly in southern and eastern regions such as Andalucia, Murcia, Valencia, and Catalonia, favouring dry, rocky environments where they hide during the day. Some also shelter in gardens, under roof tiles, or occasionally inside rural homes.

The most notable species include Buthus occitanus and Buthus ibericus, both capable of painful stings with swelling and discomfort, though serious e ects are rare. A recently identi ed species, Buthus gonzalezdelavegai, discovered in Doñana National Park in 2024, shows similar venom strength. In contrast, the smaller Euscorpius avicaudis and Euscorpius italicus are generally harmless and avoid human contact.

Spanish scorpions typically measure three to seven centimetres, with colours ranging from pale yellow to dark brown. Their venom, designed to immobilise prey, usually causes localised pain, redness, and itching in humans. Severe allergic reactions are uncommon but may require medical attention.

Activity peaks between May and September when temperatures are warm. Preventive measures include wearing boots and gloves in rocky terrain, checking bedding and shoes, and avoiding unnecessary contact. If stung, washing the area, applying a cold pack, and using pain relief are usually su cient.

Embryo breakthrough

SCIENTISTS in Barcelona have filmed, for the first time, a human embryo implanting in real time and in 3D - a breakthrough that could reshape fertility care and IVF success. The team at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), working with Dexeus Mujer–Hospital Universitari Dexeus, created a lab-built 3D model mimicking the outer layers of the uterus. Using this setup, they watched embryos push, pull and burrow into tissue, offering unprecedented detail of the critical first step of pregnancy.

Published in Science Advances, the study reveals why implantation failure is one of the main causes of infertility and is linked to around 60 per cent of miscarriages.

Lead researcher Samuel Ojosnegros explains that the embryo is far from passive: it exerts force while releasing enzymes that break down the surrounding collagen-rich tissue, clearing a path inward. Once embedded, it begins to form specialised structures that will eventually connect with the mother’s

blood vessels. Co-author Amélie Godeau adds that embryos also respond to external mechanical cues, suggesting that natural uterine contractions could help guide implantation in real life. Until now, doctors relied only on snapshots, but this system tracks implantation second by second. The findings could help clinics select embryos with the right ‘mechanical fingerprint’, design supportive lab conditions, and time transfers more precisely. For couples undergoing treatment, this may mean higher IVF success rates and shorter waits to achieve pregnancy.

Spanish hero in China

MARTA SANTANA, a 31-year-old Spanish tourist, became an internet sensation in China after rescuing a child from drowning in the Tuo River in Hunan Province on August 7. While traveling with friends, Santana, a former swimming coach, saw the boy fall into the river and struggle against strong currents. Without hesitation, she dived in to save him, followed by the child’s grandfather. Together, they brought the boy safely to shore. The rescue was lmed and shared on Weibo, China’s equivalent of X, gaining 1.8 million views on the rst day. The story trended under the hashtag ‘foreign tourist bravely saves child in Fenghuang ancient city’, becoming a top topic on Chinese social media.

Santana’s decade of experience as a swimming coach and lifeguard drove her instinctive response. “I didn’t think twice; I just wanted to get him out of the water,” she said, praising the grandfather’s courage.

Yang Xiaoli, a local tourism o cial in Fenghuang County, commended Santana’s ‘act of heroism’, noting her bravery and kindness. Santana was on her rst trip to China.

Human embryo implantation, in real time.

Marta Santana dives in to save child being swept away.

Rare September eclipse

THE final total lunar eclipse of 2025 is set to dazzle Spain on the night of Saturday September 7.

Wondering when is the next total lunar eclipse in Spain? This one, known as the Blood Moon, will be one of the most vivid and longest of the decade. For 83 minutes, the Moon will glow a deep copper red as Earth casts its shadow across the lunar surface.

This rare Blood Moon will be fully visible across most of Spain, except parts of western Galicia and the Canary Islands, where only the end will be seen.

The eclipse begins at 7.31pm, peaks at 8.11pm and ends at 8.53pm, just days before the Moon reaches its perigee, when it appears slightly larger in the sky.

A total lunar eclipse happens when Earth moves between the Sun

and Moon. Sunlight passes through our atmosphere, scattering blue light and allowing red and orange tones to bathe the Moon. The colour and brightness are measured using the Danjon scale. This eclipse is expected to score L=2 or L=3 – a coppery red centre with brighter edges.

To watch it, no special glasses are needed. Find high ground, avoid light pollution, and take a camera with tripod. Apps like Stellarium and SkySafari can help you track the Moon’s path.

This will be the second and final lunar eclipse visible from Spain this year – and perhaps the most spectacular.

Catalonia fibre

CATALONIA has just switched on public fibre in 684 towns, marking a huge step toward digital equality. The state-owned backbone now stretches 7,454 kilometres, reaching 72 per cent of the map with fibre at the kerb. Back in August 2024, the total was only 6,021 km across 533 municipalities.

Since then, crews have added another 1,433 km and connected 131 more towns. For the government, the aim is clear: close the digital gap and give rural communities the same access to modern services as Barcelona’s urban core. Presidency minister Albert Dalmau has summed it up with one line - ‘100 per cent connectivity’.

Engineers hook up new lines to the public network.

more ducts, cabinets and connections, all aimed at pushing toward universal coverage.

The roadmap for 2025 is ambitious. The grid is expected to pass 8,000 km and cover 739 municipalities, or around 78 per cent, with another 650 km already under construction. Investment has topped €300 million so far, with officials claiming each euro generates €12.85 in social value through productivity, healthcare access and new business opportunities. This year alone, €91.5 million is earmarked for

But fibre is only the backbone; the benefits will come with new programmes. XCatConnecta plans to connect 100 per cent of schools, hospitals, police stations and other public services by 2031, with work starting in 2026. For rural businesses, clinics, schools and families, the upgrades mean reliable upload speeds, smoother healthcare transfers, proper digital classrooms and a real chance at remote work.

Red Moon Rising: Blood moon eclipse to stun Spain in September skies.

Credit: Ricardo Garcia Alonso, Shutterstock

The house-sitting and pet-setting business

THE origins of house-sitting goes back to early pet ownership. You help neighbours when they’re away from home, ensuring pets are cared for. Though if a pet owner lives away from close networks finding support is harder. HouseSitMatch helps!

When I was working in corporate, I always needed sitters to care for my property and pets. So, when a friend came to visit from Australia and said she’d been house-sitting in exchange for free home and pet care, the penny dropped. What a great idea!

Pet-sitting like a friend

Our philosophy is pet-sit like a friend, so you collaborate fairly. By working through a managed platform, you access a wider network of checked sitters for more choice. You find people to help, pet lovers and retired folk who love travel and enjoy a spot of gardening.

I loved this idea so much that I gave up a 25-year London career and invested in building HouseSit-

means you can travel on a budget.

Match, for people to meet safely online.

Every home needs one

Most of us have homes, pets and travel occasionally. HouseSitMatch has helped all kinds of clients find

pet care and security, and frankly every home should have one. They keep pets at home and homes running smoothly. Home and pet owners choose their sitters, house-sitters apply for places to visit and the pets they love to care for. Yet, not a penny changes hands. It’s old-fashioned barter!

Growing and running a hou-

se-sitting business

We began in Europe and the UK, and now we go further afield. We help retired grandparents living in Spain wanting to visit family abroad and any expats needing help with pets when they want to travel, or just wanting to keep their home secure in their absence.

the UK, and now we go years of Covid

Ten years on we’ve won a Guardian newspaper award and earned a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5. And we survived Covid and Brexit. As any business owner will know growing a business is hard, but recent years were a challenge. However, we’re lucky with our collaborative members and we always want to welcome more.

I still house-sit myself so I can meet clients, and if we can’t meet in person I’ll call on the phone. Want to join our HouseSitMatch community?

Driver passes buck

IN March, a Tesla driver in Norway was fined and had his licence suspended for relying on the car’s Autopilot system, which failed to detect a temporary speed limit change in the Nøstved Tunnel.

Tesla on Autopilot.

Caught driving at 90 km/h in a 50 km/h zone, he exceeded the limit by 40 km/h. The driver contested the fine in court, arguing that Autopilot, set to follow speed limits, did not adjust for the temporary reduction from 90 km/h to 70 km/h and then 50 km/h due to a lane closure. He claimed no signs indicated the change.

However, the court rejected this, confirming clear signage based on evidence from the toll control centre, police, and other drivers.

The court ruled that relying solely on Autopilot was negligent,

stressing that drivers must stay aware of speed limits. “It is the defendant’s obligation to be aware of the speed limit, and it would be negligent to rely blindly on the car’s technical systems,” the ruling stated.

The driver was found guilty of gross negligence, fined 16,500 kroner

(€1,382.60), ordered to pay 2,000 kroner (€168) in legal fees, and had his licence suspended for nine months, as reported by TV2. This case underscores the limitations of Tesla’s driver-assistance system, which is not fully autonomous, and reminds drivers to remain vigilant.

Here I am pet-sitting for Delphi.

sitters. Sitters help with home and

House-sitting

Doggy route to happiness

NOT only is Helsinki recognised by many as the happiest capital in the world, but it has just taken an extra step to ensure its dogs are happy too.

As a one off (but likely to be repeated) it hosted ‘The Doggy Route to Happiness’, believed to be the world’s first sightseeing tour designed especially for dogs and more than 1,000 dogs and their ‘partners’ took part.

One of the most popular attractions which was nicknamed the Stickelius Monument, was created from sticks collected by local rescue dog Neris, and had been produced at one-quarter scale of Eila Hiltunen’s original Sibelius Monument which can be visited in Helsinki.

Other highlights of the tour included Café Dogatta, a ‘pup-up’ café next to the fashionable

Café Regatta, as well as Rajasaari Island, a unique dog-only island in the heart of the Finnish capital.

Some 20 per cent of the four legged visitors decided to pose in front of a photo wall created by Fanny Haga of Helsinki Council owned Helsinki Partners, a company very much involved in this promotion.

With a population of just 5.6 million people owning an estimated

800,000 dogs the country is believed to have the highest number of dogs per person in the world.

Helsinki itself is home to around 40,000 dogs, and has created more than 90 dedicated dog parks, several dog beaches and a 50-hectare forest for canine use.

Unlike many other European countries, dogs are allowed in most shops, cafés and restaurants, and ride for free on public transport.

Rental crackdown

Make sure your booking is fully licensed.

MEDITERRANEAN hotspots are tightening the screws on unlicensed tourist apartments in a coordinated push to curb overtourism, protect local housing and restore balance in crowded neighbourhoods. From Spain and Portugal to France, Italy, Greece and even the Netherlands, authorities are stepping up inspections, forcing platforms to display licence numbers, and delisting properties that fail to comply. The message is clear: visitors are welcome, but only if they book legally.

The crackdown follows mounting frustration from residents, especially in Spain, where protests last year highlighted how unregistered holiday lets were driving rents up and long-term supply down. In the Balearic Islands alone, around 7,000 illegal flats

remain despite heavy fines, with Mallorca’s prices jumping 15 per cent in a single year. Spain’s government now calls the housing crunch a ‘social emergency’, estimating up to a million new homes are needed in the next four years.

Other countries are mirroring the approach. Portugal has frozen new licences in parts of Lisbon and Porto, Italy and France are tightening tax and data rules, and Greece is targeting multi-listing hosts. Barcelona is going further, pledging to phase out all tourist apartments by 2028 in a bid to push visitors towards regulated hotels. For travellers, the practical impact is minimal if bookings are made through reputable platforms with visible licence numbers.

The special canine photo wall.

Credit:

Fanny Haga Helsinki Partners

Costa del Sol

The €18,000 tomato

A

SMALL box of tomatoes sold for €18,000 in Coin on Friday, August 15. In a historic moment for the Guadalhorce Valley, a batch of the finest huevo de toro tomatoes fetched the record-breaking amount at the 13th annual auction.

The winning bid came from local resident Francisco José Jiménez for a lot grown by Daniel García Plaza. According to a statement from Coin’s town hall, the proceeds will be donated to charitable causes.

The event, sponsored this year by flamenco singer Kiki Morente, saw Antonio Gámez’s tomatoes take second place and Isabel Cortés’s lot secure third.

Coin’s mayor, Francisco Santos, celebrated the gobsmacking payout, stating, “We’ve overtaken all records since we began promoting this tomato variety, unique to our valley, nearly 15 years ago.” He expressed his joy that the funds would support local associations and community groups.

Axarquia

A world of opportunities

NERJA is making a huge step in education and job opportunities. The town’s long-awaited Training and Employment Centre is set to open its doors in the first half of October. The training complex will carry real value and lead to certified qualifications for the residents of Nerja.

Mayor José Alberto Armijo confirmed the opening, highlighting that the new hub will not just boost skills but also raise the quality of training available to locals. “We want to give locals access to better opportunities, closer to home,” he said.

The project has been years in the making and represents an investment of €2.9 million, co-financed with both European and municipal funds. Spread across two floors, the 1,511-square-metre space has been designed to feel modern, practical, and accessible. It includes three classrooms, three specialised workshops, a computer room, staff offices, and even areas for one-on-one support. Courses will range from basic training to full professional certificates.

Mallorca

First cocktail boat

IN the Bay of Pollença and off the beautiful Palma beaches, there’s an increasingly heard sound that has become a sign of joy: ‘Pirí-pirí!’

That cry, shouted from yachts, motorboats, and sailboats , isn’t a nautical whim, but a call on the first cocktail boat to sail around Mallorca. Behind that picturesque name are Mar Margarit Bauzà and Ferran Permanyer Molist , a couple in their 30s who, five summers ago, decided to bring cocktails to the sea. The spark was ignited in 2022 when Mar, immersed in the endless scrolling of Instagram, came across a video recorded on a Thai beach, where a small vessel served drinks to others.

“We saw it elsewhere and we did it here,” she recalls. What began as an improvised adventure, with a single boat and the two of them as the only crew members, is today a small fleet of three four-metre boats that serve cocktails throughout the Bay of Palma, from Illetas to Portals Vells, and maintain their original headquarters in Pollença.

6 Newspapers

Costa Blanca South

Foreign visitors save August

ELCHE’S streets are usually quiet after August 15, with shops closing for summer holidays and locals winding down after the Maredeu festivities. Yet this August, the city is noticeably livelier, thanks in large part to foreign tourists, who are keeping central shops and cafés busy throughout the day.

Business owners are also adapting. On main streets such as the Corredora, approximately 70 per cent of shops remain open, a higher proportion than in previous years. Many small businesses have shortened their holiday periods to just a week or 10 days, returning before September, whereas historically, closures usually lasted two to three weeks. Some professionals, including estate agents and legal offices, close only temporarily and provide emergency contact details as well.

Higher temperatures keep locals and tourists at the beach until late, reducing footfall in commercial areas during peak sun hours. To compensate, some businesses extend their opening hours.

Almeria

Bookstore boon

ALMERIA students are poised to have a fruitful school year: next academic year, 2025-2026, students in their first and second years of primary education and students in their fourth year of secondary education will receive brand new - and free - textbooks. In total, more than 86,000 Almeria students will benefit from the programme. The investment, made possible by a budget of €57 million allocated by the Ministry of Education, will be widespread across the whole of Andalucia. The so-called Free Textbook Programme will allocate more than €5.4 million and benefit more than 86,000 students in Almeria specifically. Students who enrol in the registered courses will receive a book voucher and a list of textbooks to redeem at a local bookstore of their choice, at no cost.

With this programme, the governing bodies of the community of Andalucia hope to provide financial aid to families, facilitate the learning and growth of students, and create accessible academic materials and resources that all students can benefit from for years to come.

Costa Blanca North French and German officers

THREE foreign police officers – two from the French Gendarmerie and one from the German Federal Police - are serving at the Guardia Civil stations in Altea and El Campello throughout August.

At the main station in Altea, German officer Jessica, 29, who normally works as a traffic officer on Germany’s federal motorway network, is joined by French gendarme Robin, 30, who manages a patrol and intervention unit in his home country. Meanwhile, French gendarme Maud, 26, is stationed at El Campello, where her usual duties include assisting the public, supporting victims, and handling reports. During their time in Spain, the three officers are performing general policing duties within the Guardia Civil and have been warmly welcomed by their colleagues. They patrol in mixed teams, pairing a foreign officer with a Guardia Civil officer, and also work closely with the Local Police forces in Altea and El Campello on daily crime prevention and law enforcement tasks.

Bye-bye ATM fees

TAKING out cash in Greece just got a lot easier and cheaper for both locals and tourists. The Greek government has announced that from now on, withdrawals from ATMs operated by Greek banks will be completely free, and fees at independent cash machines will be capped at €1.50.

This change comes after outrage earlier this year over a major bank replacing hundreds of its own machines with third-party ATMs, leaving customers to pay €2 per withdrawal. With the backlash quickly reaching parliament, the Ministry of Finance was forced to act.

Under the new system, customers will not pay fees if their bank is linked, either directly or indirectly, to a third-party ATM. Additionally, in towns with only one machine,

INTERVIEW

withdrawals will be free regardless of who owns the ATM, and balance checks at any ATM will be free as well.

As far as digital banking is concerned, online money transfers will carry a flat fee of €0.50. The government also confirmed that customers will never be charged for withdrawals at their own bank’s ATMs, and this protection will now be written into law.

People who have commented on the change online have had quite positive reactions, and many have praised Greece for prioritising its consumers. Some even called on other European countries to adopt similar measures.

The new policies mean that Greece now has some of the most consumer-friendly banking rules in Europe.

Speaking European: Rebecca PierikFrom Amsterdam to Benidorm

Originally from Amsterdam, Rebecca Pierik arrived in Spain almost by accident. She first came for a few months during the financial crisis, unable to sell her home in the Netherlands. Recently divorced and unemployed, she took a holiday to decide her next move.

IN 2014, she travelled through Suriname and Cuba for three months. Returning to a struggling Dutch economywithout work, a partner, or a home - she began comparing the €2,500 monthly cost of living in Amsterdam to Spain’s €1,000. The idea of relocating took hold.

At first she considered Barcelona or Malaga, but by chance chose Benidorm. Her parents approved, and she rented a house online for a month. She drove down with her mother, while her father flew. Within weeks she was working in a Dutch bar. Rebecca learned Spanish, earned her teaching licence, and, drawing on her naval background, joined the Red Cross in Altea. For the past four years she has volunteered in emergency services and on ambulances in Benidorm.

Portrait of Rebecca Pierik, and her in action as a Red Cross volunteer assisting a person in the sea.

pporters’ clubs. Earlier this year, she and her chef launched a cooking workshop where guests learn to prepare paella, enjoy alioli and pa amb tomàquet, and dine together.

Visa shopping risks

APPLYING for a Schengen visa through the wrong consulate might feel like a harmless shortcut, but the consequences can derail your trip. The practice, known as ‘visa shopping’, means applying to whichever country offers appointments fastest instead of the one you’ll spend most time in.

Consulates and border officers are now cracking down, cross-checking travel plans against visa details, accommodation bookings, transport tickets, and even card transactions. If the numbers don’t add up, travellers risk being refused a visa, denied boarding, or turned back at the border.

The Schengen rules are clear. You must apply to the country where you’ll spend the longest stay. If stays are equal, then the country of first entry handles the application. For example, if you fly into

France but spend nine nights in Spain and only five in Paris, Spain is your main destination and the correct consulate to apply to. Multi-entry visas don’t offer loopholes either. The first trip must follow the rules, otherwise future applications may be flagged.

Another common misunderstanding is that a visa guarantees entry. It doesn’t. Border guards have the final word and may request the same do-

cuments you provided when applying: proof of accommodation, return flights, insurance, and financial means. The 90/180 rule also applies - travellers can only stay 90 days in any rolling 180-day window.

The smart approach is to book early with the right consulate, stay flexible with airports and routes, and carry documentation that matches your declared itinerary.

Today, she teaches Spanish to Dutch learners and belongs to two Athletic Bilbao su-

Fully booked for September, the venture is thriving. Rebecca, also a licensed lifeguard, said to Euro Weekly News: “I didn’t want to be a foreigner living in Spain - I wanted to live like the Spanish. It’s been a chance to meet people, improve my Spanish, and embrace the culture.”

Greek banks and third-party ATMs adopt new consumerfriendly rules.

Photo credit: Ali Mkumbwa / Unsplash

Visa shopping can mean refusals or trouble at the border.

Cat call

ANYONE who shares a home with a cat knows that meows can range from gentle chirps to full-blown demands. This vocal behaviour is often charming, sometimes confusing and always meaningful. Unlike wild cats, domestic cats have developed meowing as a way to communicate with humans rather than other cats. Each meow carries a purpose. Your cat might be hungry, seeking attention or simply saying hello. Some meows are short and sweet, while others are longer and more insistent, often used to ex-

press frustration or excitement. Over time, many cats create a specific ‘language’ tailored to their owner’s responses. Kittens meow to their mothers, but adult cats typically meow just for us. This special form of communication highlights the unique bond between cats and their people. Understanding the tone, timing and frequency of your cat’s meows can help you better respond to their needs. While meowing is normal, sudden changes in vocal behaviour may suggest illness or stress, so it is always worth listening closely.

Pets need clean water

PETS need constant access to water in order to stay alive. All pets should have access to a clean, fresh bowl of water. Place it by their food bowl and try to refill it at least twice a day. Your pet will then be healthy, hydrated, and happy.

Our house-sitters love animals

THE thing about our HouseSit Match house-sitters is that they just love animals and pets. Most of them prefer to stay at home with pets while they travel because they love the company. Many have had pets in the past but no longer have them at home so house-sitting is a great way to enjoy the company of a pet while discovering a new location. It can be a great way to travel for the right house-sitter. And the pet owner benefits because your pets are cared for in the home. It’s a win-win!

The pet-sitters come for free! If you’re planning a trip in 2024 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised ahead of time. All pets benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network, and the sitters come for free!

Tiera loves animlals and is a very experienced house-sitter.

Choose HouseSitMatch for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Standard account (£89 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed

3. Create a profile with photos

of your pet and the house

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House-sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

Pure Joy - I have completed two house-sits so far so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog. Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more!

Lisa Stimpson, pet-sitter from the UK

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com Need a pet-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!

Functional

HEALTHY dogs are lively, curious and full of energy, which is why more owners are looking to supplements to help maintain their pets’ well-being. Whether to support joints, improve digestion or add a glossy shine to their coat, dog vitamins are becoming a familiar part of feeding routines. These supplements are particularly popular with those caring for older dogs or breeds with specific health concerns.

In Spain, a variety of canine supplements can be found in pet shops, veterinary clinics and reputable online retailers. Options range from multivitamins and fish oils to probiotics, glucosamine and calming formulas.

formulas

While many are based on natural ingredients and commonly used in veterinary care, not all have undergone thorough clinical testing. Some are supported

more by experience than scientific trials. Choosing the right supplement depends on your dog’s individual needs, so it is always wise to consult a vet before adding anything new. The right support can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

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Honda refresh enduring Civic

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

HONDA has given its Civic e:HEV a refresh, introducing updated interior styling and exterior design changes, alongside its range assuring hybrid performance.

Every Civic trim level now features a redesigned front upper and lower grille, highlighted in black gloss and finished with a new grille and headlight trim for a sharper and arguably more sporting look. New 46cm/18inch two-tone, diamond cut alloy wheels in grey for Advance grade and black in Sport grade models add to the Civic’s striking exterior. In addition, all grades will no longer have front fog lights, for a cleaner look, that has been made possible by improved LED headlight technology. To complement these upgrades, a new exterior paint option is now available in Seabed Blue. Inside, all trims will feature a new black interior roof and pillars

In addition, the Advance model will now include interior illumination and footwell lights, while the Sport grade features a new heated steering wheel for improved driver comfort during colder drives. It also receives a 26cm/10.2-inch Digital Driver Display to offer clearer gra-

phics and improved visibility. Finally, all Elegance vehicles will now offer wireless charging within the centre console, ensuring ease of access for both driver and passenger. Elegance models will now include an auto dim feature on the rear-view mirror, which previously came as standard in the Sport and Advance grades.

Every Civic e:HEV is equipped with an array of Honda SENSING active safety technologies including the Forward Collision Warning System, designed to detect the presence of vehicles in front, issuing audible, visual and tactile alerts for the driver when approaching with too much speed.

A wide-angle, high-definition camera can identify objects accurately, including pedestrians in both light and dark environments.

At the heart of Honda’s e:HEV powertrain are two electric motors, powered by the EV battery or the engine depending on driving conditions. The system is designed to switch between three distinct driving modes - Electric, Hybrid, and Engine Drive - enabling it to adapt to different driving conditions. For those with varying driving requirements, including long journeys, a full hybrid is a reassuring option if an EV creates too much concern on range and charging.

The latest Honda Civic e:HEV is priced from €39,306/£33,795 for the Elegance trim, the Sport model from €41,167/£35,395 and the Advance €45,006/£38,695.

Shared lane sign

SPAIN’S streets now have a new splash of blue: the S43 road sign. Rolled out from July, it’s part of a national update to make road markings clearer and better suited to modern traffic. The sign’s design is simple but striking - a blue background featuring three icons: a pedestrian, a bicycle and an electric scooter.

The S43 marks shared-use zones where walkers, cyclists and personal mobility vehicles (like e-scooters) all have designated space. Instead of a free-for-all, it signals that the path or lane ahead is divided into sections, keeping pedestrians, bikes and scooters in their own area. That means fewer near-misses, less swerving and a smoother flow for everyone.

Its arrival comes as Spanish towns and cities adapt to a surge in alternative transport. With more people leaving cars at home, pa-

vements and cycle lanes are busier - and conflicts between users more common. The new sign aims to reduce those tensions, making it clear who belongs where and helping all three groups move without getting in each other’s way.

For pedestrians, it means fewer scooters darting past unexpectedly. For cyclists and scooter riders, it’s a green light to ride without weaving through crowds. And for everyone, it’s a small step towards safer, greener and calmer urban travel.

The new S43 road sign signals dedicated spaces for e-scooters, bikes, and pedestrians.

Credit : X - Dir. Gral. Tráfico @DGTes

Messi close to new record

ARGENTINE football

star Lionel Messi, currently playing with Inter Miami in the US, has one up on Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of goal assists.

Although Messi is reducing the goal gap versus Ronaldo with 875 against CR7’s 938, another statistic shows the former Barcelona striker is about to make history.

Goal assists require a great measure of creativity, fast decision-making and under pressure, as well as vision and strategic capabilities.

That said, the now US Major League Soccer star is just a handful of passes away from reaching a historic milestone: 400 assists.

That would also put him only four away from the world record set decades ago by Hungarian superstar Ferenc Puskas, 79 years old, and who each year is honoured by FIFA, which annually delivers a Puskas

commemorative trophy to the player in world football who has scored the ‘most beautiful’ goal of the calendar year.

For Messi, who currently has 389 career assists to his name, breaking that world historic record will not be difficult, according to BolaVIP, primarily because the Argentine

forward stands out every game for being a player who works collaboratively with the rest of his squad in search of a goal.

On the other hand, Ronaldo boasts only 257 career assists. He has proven he can provide passes, but he proves he focuses primarily on being the finisher.

Girl makes chess history

A 10-YEAR-OLD British girl from London has made chess history by becoming the youngest female player ever to beat a grandmaster, earning the title of woman international master.

Bodhana Sivanandan, from northwest London, defeated 60-year-old grandmaster Pete Wells in the final round of the 2025 British Chess Championships in Liverpool on Sunday, August 9.

1 Magnus Carlsen.

At only 10 years, five months and three days, Sivanandan broke the record set by American Carissa Yip, who was 10 years, 11 months and 20 days old when she defeated a grand master in 2019, according to the International Chess Federation (FIDE).

Sivanandan is now an international master, one level below the female-exclusive woman grandmaster title; the highest title in chess is grandmaster, owned by the likes of current world chess champion Gukesh Dommaraju and world No.

League ends partnership

THE Premier League has announced it will end its eight-year partnership with Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, a prominent initiative promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in English football.

Players and clubs may still display rainbow symbols voluntarily.

Since 2017, the league collaborated with Stonewall to encourage players to wear rainbow-coloured laces, clubs to display rainbow branding, and fans to show support, with a dedicated round of fixtures highlighting the campaign each season.

Stadiums, broadcasters, and official channels regularly showcased rainbow symbols as a visual commitment to diversity. The partnership will conclude before the 2025–26 season. In its place, the Premier League plans a new in-house campaign in February, coinciding with LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK. The league has stated the initiative will maintain its focus on diversity and

inclusion but broaden its scope to support multiple under-represented communities within football. Players and clubs may still display rainbow symbols voluntarily, but the league will no longer coordinate or require official match-day displays, potentially reducing the visibility of LGBTQ+ representation across televised games and stadiums.

Reactions to the change have been mixed. Some campaigners and supporters warn that stepping back from Rainbow Laces could diminish representation for groups who felt included. Conversely, many fans and commentators welcome the move, arguing football should prioritise the sport itself and that social campaigns risk distracting from the game and dividing supporters. The Premier League is expected to provide more details about its February campaign closer to launch.

Diogo Jota lives on

LIVERPOOL’S Premier League season opener against Bournemouth on August 15 was marked by a heartfelt tribute to the late Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident in July alongside his brother, André Silva. For the first time since the tragedy, Jota’s family attended a match at Anfield, including his wife, Rute Cardoso, their three children, and his parents.

Sivanandan said she picked up the sport during the Covid pandemic when she was five, after one of her dad’s friends gifted them some toys and books.

“In one of the bags, I saw a chessboard, and I was interested in the pieces,” she told the BBC. “I wanted to use the pieces as toys. Instead, my dad said that I could play the game, and then I started from there.”

She says chess makes her feel ‘good’ and helps her with ‘lots of other things like maths, how to calculate’.

The occasion was deeply emotional. Tears were reportedly seen among players, including captain Virgil van Dijk and forward Mo Salah, reflecting the strong bonds within the squad. Fans united in remembrance, with a minute’s silence, a mosaic display, and a rendition of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ before kick-off.

Bournemouth also paid homage, with their players and supporters observing the silence and displaying

banners in memory of Jota and Silva.

Liverpool announced that Jota’s No. 20 shirt would be retired across all levels of the club and revealed plans for a grassroots programme in his name to support young footballers. Manager Arne Slot emphasised the importance of supporting the grieving family, praising the unity shown by players, staff, and supporters. Throughout the match, the stadium was

filled with floral tributes, scarves, and heartfelt messages, highlighting the profound impact Jota had both on and off the pitch. The emotional day was topped off by a Liverpool win, providing a sense of triumph alongside remembrance. The tribute demonstrated the power of the football community to come together in times of loss.

Lionel Messi is on path to break the world’s record in career goal assists. He currently boasts 389.

Liverpool announced that Jota’s Nº20 will be retired.

Photo credit: Jason Wells/Shutterstock

Bodhana Sivanandan playing chess in September 2024.

Credit: Victor Velter/Shutterstock