D.L. MU 74-2025 - ISSN 3045-6703
Costa Cálida I No. 2139 I 2 - 8 July 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Horses & heritage Hands-on help AT the tail end of June, San Pedro del Pinatar celebrated one of its most emblematic and historically significant days during its annual patron saint festivities, this time revolving around a love for horses and a passion for equestrian culture. The grand opening of the CCXXVIII Royal Livestock Fair, or Real Feria de Ganado, one of the oldest livestock gatherings in Spain, has returned. This celebration blended centuries-old rural heritage and modern equestrianism, and drew participants from all across the country, especially from Murcia, Alicante, and Almeria. Throu-
Photo Credit: San Pedro del Pinatar Town Hall
San Pedro del Pinatar hosts 228th edition of livestock fair
San Pedro del Pinatar celebrated its historic livestock fair and parade.
ghout the morning, the fairgrounds buzzed with activity as people gathered to admire an impressive display of animals, including
exceptional specimens of horses, oxen, and donkeys. The event also paid tribute to a local talent and animal lover, veterinarian
Martín Alcázar Cuadrado, who has been the official veterinarian of the event for an incredible 25 years. His quarter century of dedication has been instrumental in ensuring the safety of the animals, as well as the enforcement of the health regulations, and the growth of the prestige of this local institution. After the showcase, the festivities moved from the agricultural tradition to an artistic display, with the 31st edition of the Villa de San Pedro Carriage Meeting, a vibrant and colourful equestrian parade that captivated residents, visitors, and animal lovers.
Repsol recognition
A LOCAL Costa Calida charity has launched a solidarity campaign to help those affected by the devastating recent earthquakes in Venezuela. Cartagena por la Caridad, a charity that aims to help vulnerable people with low resources, has pledged to donate to the ‘Eternal Grandparents’ project. The project is a solidarity campaign that will provide on-the-ground assistance to the people in Venezuela suffering from the earthquakes, a tragedy that has left significant damage and many people affected in the country. The project deploys doctors and volunteers to the affected areas, providing direct assistance and comfort for the victims of the earthquakes. Cartagena por la Caridad stated that they have received news from Venezuela from many families, detailing extremely difficult conditions. The charity is appealing to the solidarity of people from all over the Costa Calida and beyond, as well as companies and organisations, in order to contribute to this humanitarian campaign and make a real and direct change for the affected victims. Kind-hearted donors who want to help with funds can donate through a bank account set up by the association, indicating “Help for Venezuela” in the description, with 100 per cent of the funds being used for this emergency action. The Spanish bank account number to donate is ES76 3018 5751 8620 4885 6427. Photo Credit: Cartagena por la Caridad / Instagram
THE Costa Calida municipality of Puerto de Mazarron is celebrating a major milestone as La Barraca, a family-run establishment that has long been beloved by locals and visitors, has been awarded a prestigious ‘Solete’ award in the 2026 Repsol Guide, the premier travel guidebook in Spain. This distinction honours restaurants and establishments that offer high-quality service, food, and atmosphere, and La Barraca has ticked all the boxes. To be specific, the Repsol Guide praised the restaurant as an unmissable destination for traditional rice dishes, and drew particular attention to La Barraca’s seafood paella and its premium selection of fresh fish. The
Photo Credit: La Barraca / Instagram
Mazarron restaurant honoured with a presitigous award
La Barraca wins prestigious Repsol Solete award for culinary excellence.
restaurant, which focuses on traditional Mediterranean fare, is deeply rooted in the local fresh seafood sphere, with daily catches sourced directly from the local fishermen’s guild, called the Cofradía de Pescadores. La Barraca, founded in November
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of 1980, has been expanding and evolving over the last nearly 50 years of operation, while at the same time staying true to its core identity: fresh ingredients, traditional Mediterranean recipes, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Costa Calida charity launches campaign supporting Venezuela earthquake relief efforts.
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LOCAL NEWS
2 - 8 July 2026
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WITH just days remaining at the San Javier Air Academy in Murcia, the heir presumptive to the Spanish throne, Princess Leonor, has once again captured the Region of Murcia’s attention, receiving two prestigious acknowledgements from the nation’s military. To be specific, the Princess of Spain was made into a Cadet Lieutenant, a temporary rank for completing her academic cycle at the General Air and Space Academy, located in San Javier, Murcia. The second award bestows her with the Grand Cross of Aeronautical Merit with white distinction, an honour which Princess Leonor’s father, King Felipe VI, also received in 1988 when he concluded his own training at the very same academy. Having already received the Military and Naval Merit crosses in
Photo Credit: La Torre Golf Resort
Historic honours Summer stalls Photo Credit: Spanish Royal Household
La Torre Golf Resort hosts vibrant, biweekly summer night markets.
Princess Leonor finishes military training, receiving top honours in Murcia.
previous years, this final accolade completes her traditional trifecta of military honours. The princess has also received the Gold Medal of the Region of Murcia, the highest honour awarded by the region, for her work in San Javier. Three years ago, Princess Leonor’s journey
began at the General Military Academy of Zaragoza, followed by a demanding, but rewarding naval deployment aboard the iconic training ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano. Together, these placements have prepared her to one day hold the supreme command of the Spanish Armed Forces.
SUMMER is heating up across the Region of Murcia, and one of the area’s most beloved seasonal traditions is returning, to offer residents and visitors alike a vibrant escape from the sun. The summer night markets at the idyllic La Torre Golf Resort have returned, officially kicking off on July 1, and promise visitors a perfect way to spend a long and warm Spanish evening. Every Wednesday and Friday evening from 7.00pm, visitors will be able to step into a lively, open-air marketplace filled with community spirit, neighbourly camaraderie, and fantastic entertainment. The market will consist of colourful stalls that showcase unique, handmade crafts, trendy home décor, summer fashion
pieces, and local artisan accessories made from materials sourced right at home on the Costa Calida. The gastronomy at the market will also be a major draw. A dedicated food court is set up, serving a variety of dinner options and popular snacks, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed and flavourful meal under the summertime stars. Not only this, the market will also boast live music performances, providing a continuous and upbeat soundtrack to the nights and keeping the atmosphere energetic. Families can also join in on the fun, as a lineup of children’s activities has been planned to ensure the little ones are entertained while parents unwind.
NEWS
2 - 8 July 2026
Balcony flag warning POTENTIAL PENALTIES EXPLAINED
Air-con bill check Questions that matter
Photo Credit: Elliott Brown / Flickr
IN the midst of the World Cup, flags on balconies are a common show of patriotism. However, residents and visitors could face fines if they hang a flag from a railing incorrectly. The law is not concerned with patriotism or symbolism, but with safety and coexistence. It sets out rules on the installation and display of national flags to minimise the impact on neighbouring properties and the appearance of façades, and potential risks to passers-by. Residents and holidaymakers may be sanctioned if a flag or other item placed on a balcony poses a risk of falling, is poorly secured, blocks windows or visibility, invades another person’s property, or breaches local ordinances restricting items on balconies and railings. Fines for non-compliance range from €150 to €3,000. Minor offences, such as hanging visible laundry or allowing water to drip onto neighbouring properties or streets, can result in fines of €150 to €750. Serious offences, including ignoring municipal requirements or repeat breaches, carry penalties of €751 to €1,500. Where police identify a danger to passers-by, fines can range from €150 to €3,000. If an
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Credit: Phovoir / Shutterstock
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This new EU air-con rule could cut Spain summer bills.
Incorrectly hanging football flags in Spain can trigger €3,000 fines.
object falls and causes injury, penalties may be unlimited depending on the court’s decision. According to the General Council of Associations of Property Administrators of Spain and legal experts, temporarily displaying a
flag during the World Cup does not constitute a legal or urban planning disturbance. While the law prohibits unauthorised alterations to building exteriors, this generally applies to major works rather than the temporary display of a flag.
A PROPOSED EU rule could help households in Spain avoid costly mistakes when buying air conditioning during the summer heat. The European Commission wants installers who sell energy-labelled products, including air-conditioning units, boilers and kitchen appliances, to show customers the relevant energy label when sending quotes. The measure is not yet active law and still needs to pass through the EU legislative process. But the practical advice already applies: buyers can ask installers for the energy label, product information sheet and exact model number before accepting a quote. For households in Spain, the issue is not only the cost of fitting the unit. A cheaper system may use more electricity, perform poorly in winter heating mode, make more noise, or be unsuitable for the size of the room. The European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL), the EU product database, can also help buyers compare energy-consumption details for appliances sold on the EU market. For anyone replacing an old unit, fitting air-con for the first time or upgrading a rental or holiday home, the key question is simple: ask how much the system will really cost to run before signing off the installation.
Hidden holiday costs
Credit: Carlovis/Shutterstock
REGIONAL CHARGES VARY TOURIST taxes remain a feature of only a limited number of Spanish destinations, but they can significantly increase the cost of accommodation for visitors, particularly during the busy summer season. Unlike some European countries, Spain does not operate a nationwide tourist tax system. Instead, individual regions and municipalities decide whether to apply overnight charges to visitors staying in regulated accommodation. Barcelona currently imposes the highest tourist taxes in the country. In some higher-category hotels, visitors can pay up to around €12 per person per night, when regional and municipal charges are combined. The tax applies to hotels, apartments, hostels, campsites and some cruise passengers staying overnight. The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera, also charge a tourist tax. Rates
vary according to accommodation type and season, ranging from around €1 per night for lower-cost accommodation to approximately €6 per night in luxury hotels during peak periods. Santiago de Compostela applies a smaller municipal tourist tax of roughly €1 per person per night. The measure is linked to managing visitor numbers associated with pilgrimage tourism and city breaks. In contrast, destinations such as Madrid, Andalucia and the Canary Islands currently do not apply general tourist taxes. Although the Valencian Community has approved legislation that would allow such a charge, it has not yet been activated. As a result, travellers may find that accommodation costs differ substantially between regions, even when room prices themselves are similar.
Madrid, Andalucia and the Canary Islands currently do not apply tourist taxes.
euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.
LOCAL NEWS
2 - 8 July 2026
CARTAGENA will distribute more than 10,000 free pairs of glasses to residents and visitors so that they can safely observe the upcoming solar eclipse, to take place on Wednesday August 12. The City Council will give away the glasses as part of an informational campaign to enjoy the celestial phenomenon from ideal lookout points across the coastline. The glasses to be distributed will be certified eclipse glasses and completely free of charge, allowing an accessible way for residents and visitors to watch the partial solar eclipse in mid-August, which is expected to take the municipality by storm.
Solar safety Festive first Cartagena distributes free glasses for the upcoming August solar eclipse.
This initiative has been promoted by the Cartagena Department of Tourism, and will allow visitors to collect them at the tourist offices of Cartagena, La Manga and Isla Plana, as well as at the Ramón AlonDep. MU 74-2025 - ISSN 3045-6703
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so Luzzy Cultural Centre and the Canteras Astronomy Centre. Places including La Azohía, Isla Plana or the area around the Castillo de la Concepción are the ideal places to observe the eclipse, as they offer privileged conditions thanks to their wide horizons facing west, allowing residents and visitors to see the eclipse more clearly. This astronomical phenomenon is expected to reach its peak intensity between 7.48pm and 8.36pm, a period during which the sun will begin to obscure itself before sunset.
Photo Credit: Mazarron Town Hall / Facebook
Mazarron’s Playasol I neighbourhood successfully hosts its first resident-designed festival.
THE Mazarron neighbourhood of Playasol I has officially made history, wrapping up the very first edition of its Fiestas Populares. Taking place from Friday June 26 to Sunday June 28, this three-day celebration brought the community together near the local Playasol stadium for an unforgettable weekend of culture, sports, and deep-rooted neighbourhood pride. The event kicked off on Friday with children’s activities at the CEIP Manuela Romero, followed by a lively, vibrant parade with performances by the San José Parish Drums and Bugles Band. Saturday saw a massive foam party and a neighbourhood scavenger hunt entitled “The Mysteries of Playasol I” take
place, spelling excitement and fun for local youths. Sports fans also gathered for an exciting veteran women’s football match, while the evening filled the air with diverse musical flavours, featuring the traditional Rondalla de Mazarron, the vibrant rhythms of Dakka Marrakchia, and a high-energy concert by local talent Iguana Lola. Finally, the grand finale on Sunday honoured local roots with a traditional dress parade accompanied by a powerful batucada drumline. The community then gathered for a massive cookout featuring a giant, delicious Spanish tortilla, a barbecue, and a local charity market, allowing for residents to stand in solidarity as they shopped.
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LOCAL NEWS
2 - 8 July 2026
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THE Murcia City Council is showcasing its solidarity with the deployment of firefighters and canine units to the international aid effort for the victims of the earthquake in Venezuela. The commander of the rescue expedition is Corporal Juan Antonio Pastor from the municipal Fire and Rescue Service, along with his dog, Hammer, representing the Region of Murcia in this valiant and imperative mission. In addition to this team, the Murcia City Council has mobilised specialised human and technical resources to participate in the humanitarian aid and rescue operations to take place in Venezuela, following the severe 7.5 magnitude earthquake. The teams departed from the Region of Murcia on Friday June 26 to join the international solidarity effort.
Photo Credit: Loz Alcazares Town Hall
Brave brigade Pride parade Photo Credit: Murcia City Hall
Mar Menor pride festival returns with headliners Nebulossa and parades.
Murcia sends specialised firefighters and rescue dogs to earthquake-hit Venezuela.
Joining them are firefighter Paco Cobo and his labrador, Ron, who is on his very first rescue mission. They are acting as volunteers with IAE Rescue, a non-profit organisation that works handin-hand with the canine unit of the Murcia Fire Department. The dogs joining the
brave participants on the mission are specially trained to be able to smell live victims trapped under rubble, a crucial skill after a tragedy of this scale. They are able to track and locate people under collapsed structures, in large rural areas, and in natural disasters.
LOS ALCAZARES is set to celebrate diversity on the shores of the Mar Menor with the return of its annual Pride celebration. Running from Monday July 6 to Saturday July 11, this third edition of ‘El Mar Menor vibra con Orgullo’ promises nearly a week of events dedicated to the LGTBIQ+ community, equality, and respect. The main stage at Plaza de la Feria will host as many as 30 diverse acts throughout the week. Acclaimed artists Nebulossa and Malena Gracia will top the star-studded bill, alongside popular performers like Satín Greco, Le Cocó, Pitita, Kuve, and Keunam. The festival’s major highlights begin on Thursday July 9, with the Gala Míster Or-
gullo del Mar Menor. This is followed on Friday by the colorful Gala Divas y Reinas. The celebrations reach their peak on Saturday July 11, starting with a lively parade along the seafront at 19.00, marching from Plaza del Espejo to Plaza de la Feria. Following the march, Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera and the ‘Lo tienes claro?’ Association will deliver a pride manifesto, setting the stage for an opening speech and a massive closing gala, featuring unforgettable musical performances. This vibrant coastal celebration will successfully blend high-energy entertainment with important advocacy, welcoming residents and visitors to honour equality and have fun together.
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LOCAL NEWS
2 - 8 July 2026
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Premier practice Adrenaline & athletics CARTAGENA has earned recognition as one of the top 10 Spanish cities with the best quality of life, due to the exceptional quality of its local public healthcare system, according to a recent ranking by Madrid Capital Mundial. The ranking praised Cartagena’s sophisticated healthcare network, which serves approximately 280,000 residents and includes the Santa Lucia and Santa Maria del Rosell University General Hospitals, as well as 16 health centres, 45 primary care clinics, and specialised mental health and social care facilities. Additionally, Cartagena’s team of nearly 5,000 professionals spans family medicine, community nursing, research, and support staff, allowing the area to offer close, safe, personalised, and most importantly, high-quality care. Cartagena boasts one of the broadest service scopes
Photo Credit: P4K1T0 / Wikimedia Commons
Cartagena ranks top for life quality due to superb healthcare.
in the entire Region of Murcia’s public health system, covering nearly all medical specialties. It boasts facilities that help to provide early diagnosis, metabolic monitoring, and targeted therapies for complex oncological, neurological, and cardiac conditions. This robust healthcare network has also made Cartagena an increasingly attractive destination for the growing community of
international expatriates settling in Spain. For foreign residents, the accessibility, high concentration of medical specialties, and advanced infrastructure in Health Area II offer incredible peace of mind. Knowing that world-class, comprehensive medical treatment is available right within their own municipality is a decisive factor for expatriates choosing Cartagena as their longterm home on the coast.
THE second edition of the Cimas de Blanca 5K Night Race was a resounding success, bringing together dozens of athletes in a new event on the regional calendar during the San Pedro del Pinatar festivities. The challenge, which took place on Friday June 26, counted towards the Running Challenge of 2026, and was a tough, but satisfying obstacle to conquer for the runners of the Costa Calida. This edition of the Cimas de Blanca 5K Night Race was also part of the San Pedro del Pinatar Fiestas, and was organised by Telecanal 2 Club Deportivo Blanca, in collaboration with the Athletics Federation of the Region of Murcia and the
Department of Sports of the Blanca Town Council. It was the 16th scoring event of the regional circuit of popular races. This race began and ended in the Alto Palomo Park, not only offering the runners a satisfying 5-kilometre challenge, but also showcasing some of the most attractive areas of the municipality, especially in the midst of a festive and lively atmosphere. This event marked the end of the month of June and another successful sporting edition of the Running Challenge circuit in Murcia, which is continuing to tour different municipalities and aims to promote athleticism and bring together runners of all ages and skill levels.
Photo Credit: Athletics Federation of the Region of Murcia
Dozens of athletes competed in the Cimas de Blanca 5k.
Helping hands HELP volunteers made another successful trip to Cartagena on Thursday June 25, delivering a huge collection of essential baby items to RedMadre, a charity that supports mothers facing difficult circumstances. This latest donation included 1,520 nappies in sizes three and four, 28 packs of wet wipes, five tins of stage two powdered milk, along with children’s clothing, toys and baby equipment donated through the HELP charity outlet. Beautiful handmade blankets and cardigans lovingly crocheted by local volunteers were also included in the donation. The generosity of the local community played a vital role in making the donation possible. Members attending HELP’s recent monthly lunch brought baby essentials to support the appeal, while special thanks go to Diane, who regularly donates bags full of children’s items. RedMadre is currently supporting around 30 mothers and their families, using thousands of nappies every month. The continued support from HELP volunteers and the kindness of donors ensures these families receive practical help when they need it most. A heartfelt thank you goes to everyone who contributed. Together, you are making a genuine difference to the lives of local mothers and their children. Credit: HELP Murcia Mar Menor
HELP donates to RedMadre mother and baby charity.
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SPANISH NEWS
2 - 8 July 2026
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Credit: PL Salou
Looky-looky chaos New foreign top
RESIDENTS in Cambrils, Catalonia, have taken their local council to court over the unchecked presence of illegal street vendors on the seafront promenade. Property owners in the Cap de Sant Pere area filed the lawsuit in Tarragona courts, claiming that council authorities have turned a blind eye to the widespread occupation of public space by counterfeit goods sellers for several years. According to community records, up to 200 unlicensed traders operate daily during the peak summer season. This illegal activity blocks the walkway, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to share narrow lanes, which residents claim creates dangerous conditions. Local shopkeepers also report facing unfair competition, with some businesses forced to relocate entirely due to the
Local Police in Salou dealing with overspill of looky-looky sellers.
unregulated trade directly outside their storefronts. The neighbours’ association stated that the makeshift market occupies a 500-metre zone between April and October. Before launching legal action, residents exhausted official channels by meeting with council representatives and reporting the issue to the regional ombudsman. Tensions are also rising with neighbouring Salou, where officials argue that leniency in Cambrils allows the illegal trade to expand across municipal borders, damaging the collective tourist reputation. Public anger intensified when the council suggested altering the promenade layout to deter vendors, a move locals reject as a flat refusal to enforce existing laws.
FOREIGN home buyers accounted for 18.8 per cent of all home purchases in Spain during 2025, according to figures from the Consejo General del Notariado. International buyers bought 52,781 properties, demonstrating that interest remains strong despite a small drop from the 21.1 per cent share seen in 2023. Most foreign activity remains concentrated in coastal regions, including the Comunidad Valenciana, Andalucia, Catalonia, Murcia and the Canary Islands. However, the demographic of these international buyers is evolving. Dutch nationals have taken the top spot among non-resident buyers, purchasing 6,289 homes in 2025. This placed them ahead of German buyers, who bought 6,233 properties, and British purchasers, who
Credit: Vitalii Biliak - Shutterstock
King’s Day in Torremolinos.
accounted for 6,152 transactions. Belgian buyers recorded 4,305 deals, while French buyers completed 3,913. The Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol attract the strongest Dutch demand. Property agents state that Dutch buyers increased by nearly 50 per cent between 2023 and 2025. Experts attribute this growth to lifestyle appeal and tax drivers, such as the Box
3 wealth rules in the Netherlands. Many buyers seek holiday rental income alongside personal use. In Alhaurin el Grande, a town in Malaga province, Mayor Anthony Bermudez noted that the foreign community was traditionally British and Moroccan. He stated that the Dutch are on track to overtake British residents for the first time.
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SPANISH NEWS
2 - 8 July 2026
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Credit: Shutterstock, Anetlanda
Weddings in Spain just got more expensive.
Spain removes Gibraltar as a tax haven.
does not mean Gibraltar becomes a low-tax free-for-all. Existing tax rules, reporting requirements and anti-avoidance measures remain in place, and both governments will continue exchanging tax information. The change is about recognising Gibraltar’s
compliance with international standards, rather than relaxing financial oversight. Looking ahead, the decision is widely seen as another step towards closer cooperation following the recent UKEU agreement on Gibraltar’s post-Brexit future.
WALKING down the aisle is no walk in the park. No, it’s much more stressful and incredibly expensive, especially in Spain where the average price of a wedding has skyrocketed in the last year. In fact, any couples that postponed their 2025 wedding to instead celebrate in 2026 are looking at an extra €10,000 added to the final bill as wedding costs hit record highs. According to a report by Bodas.net, the average cost of a wedding in Spain totals €25,183, with some couples paying upwards of €30,000 towards their special day. This expensive bill doesn’t even cover some of the costlier traditions, like buying the engagement ring or going on a honeymoon. Photo credit: TaraPatta/Shutterstock
AFTER 35 years, Spain has officially removed Gibraltar from its list of tax havens, marking a significant shift in relations between the two neighbours. The decision follows Gibraltar’s adoption of international tax transparency standards, a tax cooperation agreement with Spain and wider reforms that align its financial system with global rules. For businesses and individuals, the change is more than symbolic and could in fact make life a little easier for both sides of the border. Being labelled a tax haven often meant extra checks, stricter tax rules and added bureaucracy when dealing with Spain. With that label now gone, commercial activity between the two is expected to become smoother and more attractive for investment. With that said, this
Credit: Shutterstock, Gorodenkoff
Economic reset Til’ debt do us part
Drug trafficking groups frequently use mules who are less likely to attract suspicion.
The biggest wedding expense is the venue and catering. Hosting and feeding guests accounts for 53 per cent of the total budget, with around €225 spent on each guest. Once presented with this reality, many couples reassess the guest list, scrapping plus ones and uninviting the cousins they don’t actually like in order to scale back costs. Saving for a wedding takes time - 25 months to be exact. Although, of those Bodas.net polled, some recall saving for three to five years. Even after years of saving, only around 41 per cent of couples stick to their initial budget, relying instead on family support, cash gifts from guests and dipping into savings.
An old mule AN 86-year-old Swedish national was arrested at Madrid-Barajas Airport after security officers discovered 4.555 kilograms of cocaine concealed in his luggage. The man had arrived from Costa Rica and was in transit to Brussels when he was stopped for inspection. During the search, officers found nine cylindrical packages hidden inside his suitcase. He was arrested on suspicion of drug trafficking and placed in custody while judicial proceedings and investigations continue. Authorities are examining whether the passenger knowingly transported the drugs or whether he was recruited or exploited by a criminal organisation operating international trafficking routes. Investigators note that drug trafficking groups
frequently use mules who are less likely to attract suspicion at airport controls. Elderly passengers travelling alone are sometimes targeted because they may appear less connected to organised crime networks. Some couriers are recruited with financial incentives, while others are misled about the contents of luggage they are asked to transport. Law enforcement agencies across Europe have documented similar cases involving individuals of varying ages and backgrounds. The cocaine was detected through routine baggage screening and inspection procedures. The investigation is now focused on identifying the organisers and tracing the origin and intended distribution route of the shipment.
SPANISH NEWS
10 2 - 8 July 2026
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IN Spain, grocery shopping has become more expensive over time, leading households to adjust how they buy food. A standard weekly basket now often costs more than expected, prompting people to buy fewer items, compare prices more closely,
and choose cheaper alternatives. Price increases have affected several basic products, including bread, eggs, dairy, fruit, vegetables and cooking oils. These changes have also influenced cooking habits at home. More people are
preparing meals from basic ingredients and reducing convenience foods or weekday restaurant meals. Olive oil, a widely used staple in Spanish cooking, has become more noticeable in household spending due to its frequent use and repeated purchase. A video showing handmade olive oil production has been widely shared online. It features olives being crushed into a paste, liquid being extracted, and oil being separated after resting. Around seven kilos of olives produce roughly 200 millilitres of extra virgin olive oil. The video has gained media attention because it shows the amount of raw material needed for a small yield. It has also contributed to interest in how everyday foods are produced, alongside similar content about bread, cheese and preserves. The focus is less on mass self-production and more on understanding how basic food products are made before reaching supermarkets.
Credit:Klymenko Mariia/shutterstock
Starting from scratch Beach shower backlash
New water charges trial.
A PILOT “smart shower” installed at Matalascañas Beach in Huelva has sparked a backlash after it emerged the system could eventually charge people to rinse off sand and seawater. The device, introduced as a drought‑management measure, monitors water use and can be activated by QR code or coins. Although currently free during testing, the technology is designed to allow payments, with a quick rinse expected to cost about €1. A family of four could the-
refore spend €4 simply to wash their feet. The reaction has been fierce because public beach showers have always been free in Spain. Many see the move as a step towards charging for basic services. Social media users warned that “little by little, we normalise paying for everything,” while others joked that “next they’ll charge us to walk on the sand.” Critics also question the practicality of using mobile phones at the shower
or relying on coins when many beachgoers carry neither. Some fear that, if the trial is deemed successful, other coastal towns facing drought pressures could follow. In previous years, some Andalucian councils simply switched off beach showers entirely to save water. For now, the Matalascañas installation remains a one‑off experiment. Beachgoers heading to Spain this summer will still find free showers and can spend their €4 on an ice cream instead.
FINANCE Melting away
ICE-CREAMS are shrinking, and not because they are melting in the sun. The average size of a Magnum, for example, was 120ml until the 2008 economic crash, at which point it was reduced to 110ml. In 2026, Magnums shrunk in size again to 100ml, despite prices rising to more than €3 per unit. To hide the smaller servings, many brands have been known to use the same packaging filled with more air.
EasyJet takeover
EASYJET has rejected a €5.9 billion takeover from US private equity firm Castlelake. Castlelake has made several proposals, its most recent offered £7.26 per share, a 24 per cent premium to the most recent closing price. EasyJet has accused Castlelake of taking advantage of its precarious situation, as war hikes jet fuel prices, essentially claiming they’re trying to buy the airline “on the cheap.”
Future farmers
SPAIN’S farming sector needs new blood. Currently, only 7.7 per cent of industry professionals are under 40 years old, while 40 per cent are over 65. Because of this, the Future Harvest initiative is set to launch in Spain, with 200 future farmers receiving agricultural training, preparing them to take over operations when the current generation retires. Future Harvest plans to reach 900 farmers across Europe.
World Cup wager
WITH the start of the World Cup, sports betting has surged. According to a study by TransUnion, it’s young adults aged 25-34 lead the charge in the UK. Around 43 per cent admitted to betting more frequently during the World Cup, placing larger bets than any other age group. However, their research revealed a worrying statistic: one in eight would be a victim of betting fraud.
euroweeklynews.com • 2 - 8 July 2026
STAT OF WEEK
2.5%
Overnight stays in Spanish hotels increased by 2.5 per cent in May compared to the same month in 2025, generating revenue of €123.7 per occupied room.
Generational divide GEN-Z and Millennials are constantly arguing over which generation had it best, or rather, which had it worst. A new report from the Resolution Foundation could add kindling to the fire, as it claims Gen-Z is better off financially, earning a higher wage than Millennials did at the same age. According to the Resolution Foundation, Gen-Z - those born between 1997 and 2012 - saw an increase in their pay-packet that Millennials never did. Millennials - those born between the early 1980s and mid-1990s - had the unfortunate luck of coming of age during the 2008 economic crisis. This significantly hindered their ability to get on the career ladder, let alone climb it. The report analysed how much each generation earned on average at age 24. The Resolution Foundation determined the wage earned by those born in the late 1990s
Apple lawsuit APPLE is facing a £3 billion lawsuit in Britain, with 40 million iCloud users potentially involved in the class action. Apple is accused of trapping customers into using its iCloud storage service by restricting how files can be saved, hindering consumers’ ability to switch to rival providers, and weakening competition.
Credit: Shutterstock, Drazen Zigic
Millennials or Gen-Z, who earns more?
to be 12 per cent higher than those born in late 1980s. What’s more, those born in the early 2000s, the 24-year olds of today, are earning more than any generation before them. These figures show a steady pay increase for each generation, but that doesn’t mean the pay-check stretches the same distance. Despite being recognised as
Crypto fail
the most educated generation in history, Gen-Z is contending with underemployment, with more than a million British 16-to-24 years olds not in employment or education. Historic levels of inflation has also made any pay-bump null and void for both generations, making it near impossible to reach the typical adult milestones like buying a house or starting a family.
TO coincide with the start of the World Cup, Spain’s national football team launched its own cryptocurrency $SPAIN, designed for fans to unlock exclusive rewards. But within 24 hours of trading, its stock plummeted 40 per cent, the price of each token dropping from €0.88 to €0.52.
Heathrow nose dive HEATHROW AIRPORT has made big promises regarding its third runway, claiming the £33 billion project could boost the UK’s GDP by 0.5 per cent. However, analysis by the Department for Transport (DfT) has revealed those estimations to be a gross exaggeration. DfT estimated the true benefit to be 0.05 per cent, with that figure potentially dipping to 0.03 per cent. Heathrow representatives refuted these claims. They describe the analysis as “very narrow,” claiming DfT did not consider factors such as rising cargo trade and passenger growth. Thomas Woldbye, Heathrow’s chief executive, strongly believes “the UK cannot realise its full economic potential without an expanded Heathrow.” And so, the debate over the necessity for a third runway continues. Supporters praise the project’s po-
Credit: Shutterstock, Rob Atherton
BUSINESS EXTRA
12
Heathrow’s third runway take a nose dive.
tential to create thousands of jobs and training opportunities, but those against claim the financial and social costs outweigh any potential benefits.
Mobile pay
Healthy spending
Housing dilemma
MASTERCARD confirmed that 50.7 per cent of Spaniards typically leave their wallet at home, instead paying by phone. Card usage is at an all-time high, reaching 97.6 per cent in 2025. Online purchases are also starting to eclipse physical payments, with 79.1 per cent of people ordering online in 2025.
RESEARCHERS predict the rise in GLP-1 weight loss drugs will fundamentally change consumer habits in the UK. Because weight loss medication reduces craving and simulates fullness, the first foods to go from the basket would be snack items. A study by PwC Strategy found 70 per cent of GLP-1 users were cutting out snacks and confectionery, with 60 per cent spending more on fresh food. Additionally, 40 per cent were reallocating funds to buy vitamins and supplements. To accommodate the shift, many supermarkets are introducing more nutrient rich foods.
FINDING permanent accommodation in Spain can feel impossible. Rental prices are soaring and new builds are failing to meet demand, yet somehow 3.8 million homes across Spain sit empty. It seems like a complicated riddle, but in reality, the situation is simple: the houses are in the wrong place. Around 70 per cent of Spain’s population is concentrated in major cities and coastal regions, while the empty homes are located in depopulated rural areas. People leave rural towns only to end up in cities filled to capacity and full of tourist rentals, adding further pressure to the housing market.
Eclipse bookings CAMPSITES across northern Spain are fully booked ahead of August’s solar eclipse. Campsites along the path of totality have experienced a 300 per cent increase in bookings, with the greatest demand in Asturias, Castilla y Leon and Valencia. Data reveals 75.4 per cent of all bookings are from international tourists.
Wall Street woes WALL STREET recently experienced a volatile day of trading, when investors sold-off semiconductor chip stocks and AI related shares. Concerns have been raised about the massive investment in debt-funded AI infrastructure. Many have scrutinised its profitability and lost confidence in ever seeing a return.
FINANCE
14 2 - 8 July 2026
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LONDON - FTSE 100
Closing Prices 29 June
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3I Group.....................................2.561,00............2.579,00......... 2.519,00.......... 438,2K Admiral Group.............................3.474,0..............3.486,2........... 3.442,0........... 36,61K Airtel Africa................................. 340,80...............343,60............336,12.......... 262,99K Anglo American...........................3.658,0..............3.685,0........... 3.604,0.......... 500,38K Antofagasta................................3.731,00............3.743,00......... 3.684,00.......... 125,2K Associated British Foods.............1.973,0..............1.994,5........... 1.971,1........... 88,01K AstraZeneca...............................13.980,0............14.086,0......... 13.948,0......... 223,18K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 480,40...............489,40............480,20............2,13M Aviva........................................... 646,40...............647,80............641,80.......... 474,76K B M European Value Retail.......... 206,60...............209,20............205,00.......... 611,06K BAE Systems..............................1.761,50............1.800,00......... 1.759,50......... 697,89K Barclays...................................... 512,90...............518,60............510,30............5,71M Barratt Redrow............................ 293,44...............301,80............293,20............1,72M Beazley.......................................1.285,00............1.285,00......... 1.284,50......... 975,74K Berkeley......................................3.592,0..............3.762,0........... 3.592,0.......... 133,39K BP............................................... 471,85...............477,80............471,15............6,76M British American Tobacco...........4.788,0..............4.804,0........... 4.731,0.......... 600,32K BT Group.................................... 192,40...............193,55............191,80............2,41M Bunzl...........................................2.656,0..............2.674,0........... 2.638,0.......... 121,59K Centrica....................................... 176,70...............178,15............176,65.......... 990,65K Coca Cola HBC AG......................4.804,0..............4.816,0........... 4.758,0........... 61,08K Compass...................................... 32,10.................32,32..............31,63........... 226,76K ConvaTec Group......................... 208,38...............212,00............208,00............2,18M Croda Intl....................................3.048,0..............3.177,0........... 3.015,0........... 94,55K DCC.............................................6.230,0..............6.250,0........... 6.230,0........... 36,91K Diageo.........................................1.567,5..............1.584,5........... 1.562,5.......... 710,48K Diploma.....................................7.000,00............7.130,00......... 6.990,00.......... 27,73K EasyJet........................................ 573,94...............583,00............565,60.............2,7M Entain.......................................... 561,80...............573,86............559,84.......... 478,93K Experian......................................2.463,0..............2.503,0........... 2.461,0.......... 674,78K F&C Invest.................................. 343,60...............347,00............342,80........... 452,4K Flutter Entertainment...................7.226,0..............7.264,0........... 7.172,0............ 5,07K Frasers........................................ 731,00...............750,00............729,00........... 90,53K Fresnillo.....................................2.789,00............2.791,00......... 2.740,00......... 140,42K Glencore...................................... 512,25...............520,20............506,50............7,65M GSK plc......................................1.952,00............1.972,50......... 1.948,50......... 771,89K HALEON...................................... 347,90...............350,00............347,40............1,56M Halma..........................................3.880,0..............3.926,0........... 3.880,0.......... 135,61K Hikma Pharma...........................1.522,00............1.540,00......... 1.518,00.......... 20,17K Hiscox........................................1.851,00............1.865,00......... 1.849,00......... 107,48K Howden Joinery.......................... 865,95...............877,50............863,00.......... 174,28K HSBC.........................................1.424,20............1.438,00......... 1.419,00...........3,03M IAG.............................................. 482,90...............488,30............482,00............2,93M ICG PLC.....................................1.628,00............1.658,00......... 1.623,00........... 54,8K IMI PLC......................................2.918,00............2.942,00......... 2.912,00.......... 42,27K Imperial Brands..........................2.817,00............2.836,04......... 2.780,00......... 262,55K Informa....................................... 883,00...............896,40............879,60.......... 254,05K InterContinental........................... 171,4.................173,3..............171,2............ 57,51K Intertek........................................5.805,0..............5.805,0........... 5.800,0.......... 189,62K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
J Sainsbury................................. 315,10...............316,09............312,00............1,12M JD Sports Fashion........................ 85,26.................86,89..............85,12.............1,49M Kingfisher.................................... 291,40...............295,90............291,40.......... 832,59K Land Securities........................... 655,20...............664,50............655,00.......... 773,78K Legal & General.......................... 286,20...............288,00............281,71............2,63M Lloyds Banking........................... 109,80...............110,10............109,30...........20,73M London Stock Exchange..............7.918,0..............8.000,0........... 7.776,0.......... 143,19K Londonmetric Property............... 189,60...............191,30............189,20.............1,3M M&G........................................... 333,10...............335,10............332,80.......... 625,37K Marks & Spencer........................ 375,40...............380,93............374,90........... 943,4K Melrose Industries...................... 466,40...............471,20............464,70.......... 458,47K Mondi.......................................... 702,00...............718,40............699,80.......... 637,93K National Grid..............................1.256,73............1.262,00......... 1.246,00......... 781,45K NatWest Group........................... 656,00...............661,80............651,80............1,78M Next...........................................14.645,0............14.865,0......... 14.645,0.......... 33,86K Pearson......................................1.152,00............1.159,50......... 1.149,00.......... 98,79K Pershing Square........................3.754,00............3.824,00......... 3.746,00.......... 36,24K Persimmon.................................1.113,0..............1.147,0........... 1.113,0.......... 721,26K Prudential...................................1.005,50............1.008,50...........994,20............2,14M Reckitt Benckiser........................4.853,0..............4.873,0........... 4.830,3.......... 136,33K Relx............................................2.303,00............2.365,00......... 2.303,00......... 953,34K Rentokil....................................... 430,80...............436,20............430,20.......... 411,88K Rightmove.................................. 425,30...............436,70............424,10.......... 367,88K Rio Tinto PLC..............................7.179,0..............7.215,0........... 7.128,0.......... 301,74K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.410,20............1.436,40......... 1.404,80...........2,11M Sage............................................ 790,91...............799,40............790,40.......... 194,75K Schroders.................................... 586,0.................586,0..............585,0........... 148,47K Scottish Mortgage......................1.388,00............1.400,50......... 1.380,00......... 552,63K Segro.......................................... 880,24...............885,80............877,20............1,95M Severn Trent...............................2.954,0..............2.980,0........... 2.952,0........... 33,37K Shell............................................2.894,5..............2.916,0........... 2.886,8............1,28M Smith & Nephew........................1.136,50............1.150,65......... 1.136,00......... 277,63K Smiths Group.............................2.562,00............2.589,00......... 2.559,00.......... 49,58K Smurfit Westrock........................3.359,0..............3.402,0........... 3.356,0................0 Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........6.860,0..............6.950,0........... 6.840,0............ 9,34K SSE............................................2.391,00............2.441,00......... 2.389,00......... 526,19K Standard Chartered....................2.032,00............2.055,00......... 2.020,00......... 635,41K Standard Life............................... 836,00...............839,00............830,00.......... 271,58K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,78.................86,20..............83,70.............3,63M Tesco.......................................... 461,70...............463,50............458,70............3,28M Unilever.......................................4.612,0..............4.621,0........... 4.397,8.......... 652,87K Unite........................................... 524,00...............528,00............520,50.......... 121,68K United Utilities............................1.301,00............1.312,00......... 1.296,00......... 235,61K Vistry Group................................ 266,80...............285,00............265,48.......... 960,66K Vodafone Group PLC................. 105,050.............106,300..........104,750...........6,56M Weir Group................................2.362,00............2.380,00......... 2.356,00.......... 57,75K Whitbread...................................2.448,0..............2.524,0........... 2.447,0.......... 191,42K WPP............................................ 244,30...............251,80............243,90............1,45M
0.86318 1.14006
1.15849
0.9226 7.4750 11.3230 10.0850 Contact our team of currency experts
+34 871 510 277 currenciesdirect.es
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 29 June
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 167,97...............169,76............166,62............2,38M Amazon.com............................... 227,01...............232,32............225,55...........77,86M American Express....................... 342,46...............352,52............340,92............3,52M Amgen........................................ 352,82...............359,10............350,06............2,34M Apple........................................... 275,15...............288,80............273,75..........107,25M Boeing......................................... 218,12...............224,13............217,16............4,69M Caterpillar...................................1.057,01............1.057,07......... 1.015,00...........4,65M Chevron...................................... 172,24...............172,77............169,27............7,96M Cisco........................................... 118,97...............121,14............117,56...........26,93M Coca-Cola..................................... 80,42.................81,38..............79,97............16,03M Goldman Sachs..........................1.065,09............1.105,25......... 1.062,10...........1,95M Home Depot................................ 345,00...............348,64............341,82............6,98M Honeywell................................... 231,24...............237,37............227,77............5,85M IBM............................................. 258,27...............268,76............256,00............8,54M J&J............................................. 244,88...............248,19............240,89...........10,13M JPMorgan................................... 335,12...............343,45............334,76...........10,05M McDonald’s................................. 264,54...............273,34............264,53.............6,2M Merck&Co................................... 125,45...............125,96............121,00...........14,05M Microsoft.................................... 352,83...............364,23............349,20...........66,36M Nike.............................................. 40,90.................41,86..............40,44............29,25M NVIDIA........................................ 195,74...............200,80............192,13..........150,21M P&G............................................ 148,50...............152,29............147,82............11,2M Salesforce Inc............................. 150,19...............154,00............148,78...........11,33M Sherwin-Williams........................ 339,08...............344,00............335,40.............2,7M The Travelers.............................. 318,29...............325,89............318,16............1,46M UnitedHealth............................... 415,53...............417,58............406,65............6,02M Verizon......................................... 46,07.................46,26..............45,33............17,59M Visa A.......................................... 330,52...............339,94............330,07............7,05M Walmart...................................... 115,78...............118,58............115,38............20,4M Walt Disney.................................. 98,05................101,58.............97,99............12,07M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 29 June
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced Triller.............................................................. 296,45 %.......................224,21M Nexera Tech..................................................... 95,56 %.........................326,7M Autozi Internet Technology.............................. 73,68 %.........................66,21M iQSTEL............................................................. 47,22 %.........................104,4M Ptl.................................................................... 40,38 %........................314,57K Atlantic International........................................ 33,32 %.........................83,79M Lichen China.................................................... 32,54 %...........................1,5M Roboai............................................................. 28,29 %.........................13,31M Groupon........................................................... 24,89 %..........................3,91M Eshallgo........................................................... 23,51 %.........................10,12M M - Million Dollars
Most Declined Aditx................................................................-75,79 %........................362,99M Nano X.............................................................-43,95 %.........................18,15M Redcloud Holdings...........................................-43,44 %.........................17,58M Wing Yip Food Holdings ADR..........................-39,79 %..........................2,25M Curis................................................................-39,51 %..........................4,71M Paranovus Entertainment Tech........................-37,43 %.........................41,64M GD Culture.......................................................-37,04 %.........................955,7M Digital Currency X Tech....................................-36,65 %..........................7,03M CDT Equity.......................................................-34,59 %..........................1,77M Lucas GC..........................................................-34,20 %..........................3,98M Identiv..............................................................-32,25 %..........................1,45M M - Million Dollars
FINANCE
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ASK THE EXPERT ROXANNE MULLENGER Peter Loveday - HEAD OF DEALING Contact me at SOUTHERN EUROPE.
2 - 8 July 2026
15
Pound wobbles as Starmer resigns, US dollar strengthened by hawkish Fed repricing
Euro EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.86 EUR/USD: Down from $1.16 to $1.13 The euro initially got off to a robust start in June, with the single currency being underpinned by the European Central Bank’s (ECB) interest rate hike. However, the single currency struggled to sustain this support amid renewed USD demand and subsequent comments from ECB President Christine Lagarde, which tempered bets for further hikes. Turning to July, the euro may face headwinds if Eurozone economic releases continue to point to weakness in the bloc through the end of the second quarter. Pound GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.15 GBP/USD: Down from $1.34 to $1.32 UK political developments kept GBP investors on their toes in recent weeks, with Andy Burnham’s convincing by-election victory and Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s resignation infusing volatility into the pound.
The euro rose at the start of June, but later lost momentum.
At the same time, the Bank of England’s (BoE) decision to leave interest rates unchanged, coupled with its revised inflation forecasts, sapped expectations the
bank may hike interest rates later in the year. Looking ahead, Burnham’s first couple of weeks in 10 Downing Street will be clo-
sely watched by markets in July, with a particular focus on whether he can keep the bond market on board with his fiscal policies. US Dollar USD/GBP: Up from £0.74 to £0.75 USD/EUR: Up from €0.85 to €0.87 The US dollar enjoyed strong support through June, striking new multi-month highs against both the pound and euro. This upside was initially linked to Middle East uncertainty before a hawkish turn by the Federal Reserve helped to accelerate the US dollar’s gains despite the announcement of a US-Iran peace agreement. Upcoming US economic indicators will be in the spotlight for USD investors in the coming weeks, with further signs of resilience potentially strengthening Fed rate hike expectations. Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.
VISIT US AT OUR SPANISH OFFICES IN COSTA DEL SOL, COSTA ALMERIA, NORTH COSTA BLANCA AND SOUTH COSTA BLANCA. TELEPHONE UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 • EMAIL EUROWEEKLY@CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM • WWW.CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM.
Desert fuel fiasco LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT THE other day, purely as the direct result of an unreliable gauge, the car actually managed to run out of petrol. Don’t ask! It did however remind me fervently of the time I managed to run a tank dry in the middle of the desert. Living and working in Saudi Arabia in the 70s and seeing my latest venture fold meant that money was becoming a constant problem. Subsequently, when an associates inquired as to if I could deliver a shiny innovative fire engine to a new airport being constructed some 600 kilometres away in the desert, I gave the request some very serious thought. Being young and adventurous, and certainly needing the money, I finally decided to give it a go. A couple of days later, with sirens whooping and lights flashing, off I set. Naturally I had a full tank of petrol, but to be assured of arriving safely (and completely miscalculating
how many kilometres the vehicle did to the gallon!) I had also loaded two extra 10 gallon drums in the spacious cab of the very futuristic vehicle I was now in control of. The first night, deep in the desert, was an incredible, never to be forgotten experience. To escape the night antics of the scorpions, snakes, and camel spiders, I ensconced myself to sleep on the roof of the vehicle. Laying there wrapped in a blanket, I gazed up in wonder at an incredible night sky with more heavenly lights and shooting stars than I had ever imagined. The total silence and realisation that I was alone and completely untouchable (and beyond any assistance!) soon lulled me into a deep sleep. Tomorrow was another day. Shortly after sun up, once again off I set. I won’t bore you with the aspects of the long journey, safe to say it abounded with rough tracks and sand dunes which my latest vehicle basically managed to negotiate without too many problems. However, I did finally notice my petrol tank was once again extremely
low. Although I had begun to realise It was extremely unlikely I would come across a petrol station, (which my colleagues had told me undoubtably existed!), I managed to pour in the two 10 gallon spare cans and set off once again. Some hours later, with still no sign of petrol pumps or indeed any form of habitation whatsoever and still a long way to go, I began to realise I was definitely not going to make it. On and on I trundled until finally, after a few more hours, with a number of disgruntled coughs the tanks finally ran dry. And there I sat, in utter silence, in the middle of the desert, in a fire engine, experiencing the sun beating down with enough intensity to blister paint. It rather made my recent running out of petrol on the Palma ring road a positive doddle. Did I get through it? Well, I’m here writing this. You’ll need to tune in next week for the finale of this perfectly true though almost unbelievable tale of Leapy’s law. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
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Return of the sunbed wars BRITISH tourist Rachel Rogers has sparked a fierce online debate after filming herself pulling towels off unused sun loungers at a Tenerife hotel. The video, filmed in Playa de las Americas, shows Rodgers removing towels left on poolside loungers by guests who had reserved them but were nowhere to be seen. Calling the culprits “nasty sunbed hoggers,” Rodgers shared the footage online, where it quickly went viral. The reaction was split. Some praised her for tackling a holiday frustration many travellers know all too well, with one commenter saying she had done “exactly what the hotel should do.” Others accused her of unnecessarily policing the pool area, pointing out that there appeared to be plenty of empty loungers available. The clip reignited the annual row over so-ca-
The clip reignited the annual row.
Photo credit: Rachel Rogers on TikTok
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
16 2 - 8 July 2026
lled sunbed wars, a familiar sight in busy holiday resorts. Guests often claim loungers early in the morning with towels before returning hours later, leaving rows of supposedly occupied sunbeds sitting empty. While some hotels remove unattended towels or ban reserving loungers altogether, enforcement is often patchy. The incident struck a chord because it reflected a holiday argument that refuses to go away, with opinion once again divided between those who see reserving loungers as selfish and those who view it as part of resort life.
Photo credit: AtlasStudio/Shutterstock
WHEN British people and Spaniards interact in daily life, it is often small habits rather than major cultural differences that stand out. These everyday behaviours can seem unusual, amusing or simply intriguing depending on perspective. One commonly noted habit is the British approach to sandwiches, which Spaniards often see as highly flexible. While Spanish sandwiches tend to be simple and traditional, British versions may include unexpected fillings such as leftovers, chips or unconventional combinations, reflecting a “nothing goes to waste” approach. Another difference is payment timing in restaurants and cafés. In Spain, it is normal to pay after eating, but British customers often prefer to pay upfront, completing the transaction before the meal begins. Drinking habits also stand out. British visitors
Photo credit: Russell Tur/Shutterstock
Cottage queso British quirks Spanish love
COTTAGE cheese consumption in Spain has increased sharply since 2025, rising by more than 60 per cent and turning an overlooked dairy product into a mainstream supermarket item. The surge has been so strong that some retailers, including Mercadona, have experienced temporary stock shortages as demand outpaced supply. The growth is largely attributed to social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, where recipes featuring cottage cheese have gone viral. Users share simple recipes such as sauces, breakfasts, snacks and The growth is largely attributed to social media. desserts, which are easy to replicate at home with minimal ingredients. trition is not the only driver. This visibility has encouraged first-tiBeyond health trends, convenience me buyers who initially purchase the plays a major role, as busy lifestyles product out of curiosity, before incor- increase demand for quick and adaptaporating it into regular meal planning. ble foods. Retailers such as Mercadona Consumers value cottage cheese for its have had to adjust supply chains and versatility, as it can be eaten alone, or increase orders to keep shelves stocked used in both savoury and sweet dishes. during peak demand periods. Analysts Its high protein content and relatively suggest the trend may persist due to low calorie profile have also contribu- affordability, accessibility and ease of ted to its popularity among health-cons- use, though growth rates could evencious consumers in Spain, although nu- tually stabilise.
Observations include pub singalongs like ‘Sweet Caroline’.
are often observed finishing drinks completely, including beer, even when it has warmed, whereas Spaniards may leave the final part. Other recurring observations include pub singalongs like ‘Sweet Caroline’, the habitual offering of tea regardless of weather, and the stereotypical socks-and-sandals style sometimes seen among tourists.
Food customs can also become talking points, particularly debates over ingredients such as chorizo in paella, which Spaniards often reject as inauthentic. Overall, these quirks are usually met with curiosity and humour rather than criticism, becoming small cultural stories that reflect how everyday behaviour differs across countries.
EUROPRESS
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Vespa at 80 Temperature control Credit: Viktar Malishevsky X
MORE than 10,000 Vespa enthusiasts from 48 countries gathered in Rome to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the iconic Italian scooter. The three-day event featured parades, exhibitions and special product releases across the capital city. A massive parade caused widespread traffic disruption as riders on vintage and contemporary models passed the Imperial Forums and occupied Via Cristoforo Colombo. Car drivers reacted with anger to gridlock in temperatures near 40°C. The traffic issues hit surrounding neighbourhoods and blocked some ambulances, though bystanders still watched the procession with national pride. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri opened the main festival centre at Foro Italico. The venue hosted the European Vespa Rally Championship and the World Gymkha-
2 - 8 July 2026
Credit: Gianluca Pellegrinelli FB
Crowd control: Berlin police deploy water cannon to cool people down. 10,000 Vespas bring Rome to standstill.
na Championship obstacle courses. Visitors also explored a historical exhibition displaying classic models, including one signed by Salvador Dali. To mark the anniversary, the Italian State Mint presented a special coin, and producers released 1,946 units of a limited-edition scooter. Individual riders shared their passion, inclu-
ding Walter from Feltre, who drove a custom scooter modified with skis to the North Cape and Patagonia. First launched in 1946 at Pontedera, almost 20 million Vespa units now circulate worldwide. Two million scooters were produced in the last decade alone, proving the vehicle remains a global symbol of design and freedom.
BERLIN police deployed water cannons to spray a fine mist over residents on Saturday, June 27, as temperatures broke previous records across the capital. Officers dispensed 9,000 litres of water by mid-afternoon around the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz to provide relief from the oppressive heatwave. The weather station at Berlin-Tempelhof recorded 39.5°C on Saturday, June 27, breaking the pre-
vious regional high of 38.6°C set in 2015. Potsdam reached 39.9°C on the same day. Forecasters warned that temperatures could reach 41°C, with the extreme conditions last some time. Public swimming pools reached capacity rapidly, forcing many outdoor facilities to turn visitors away by early afternoon. Staff at the historic Charlottenburg indoor baths halted ticket sales at 4.30pm, leaving frustrated crowds queuing
outside in the heat. Emergency services reported a sharp rise in heat-related incidents. Fire and rescue crews responded to an increased number of callouts for circulatory issues, cardiac arrests, and emergencies at swimming locations. The heat also caused severe damage to the A2 motorway linking Brandenburg with Saxony-Anhalt. Police closed several junctions near Ziesar after the road surface deteriorated.
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Dog survives major fall
Pego celebrates history
A GERMAN Shepherd has miraculously survived a harrowing 60-metre fall down Ronda’s iconic El Tajo gorge, spending the night trapped on a narrow cliff ledge with only minor injuries. The incident occurred at around 9pm on Wednesday, June 24, as a group of young people walked the dog along the Paseo de Los Ingleses. The animal unexpectedly leapt over the safety wall, tumbling down the precipice. The event was so traumatic that paramedics treated the owner at the scene for a severe anxiety attack. Local Police and firefighters launched an immediate search operation in pitch darkness. Searchers finally spotted the dog at 12:25pm on Thursday, June 25, wedged between a rocky outcrop and a crevice. Remarkably, the pet sustained only a single leg injury. Rescuers extracted the animal, transported it to a veterinary clinic, and later reunited the dog with its grateful family.
THE streets of Pego became a spectacular openair stage as the town’s annual Moors and Christians festival culminated with the Entrada, a major event in the Marina Alta calendar. Thousands of spectators watched elaborately dressed participants march through the historic centre, accompanied by brass bands and choreography. The Christian side opened the procession, led by Ambassador Filà Templaries and Captaincy Filà Feixucs, before the Moorish groups concluded the evening with richly decorated costumes. Commemorating the Reconquista period, the festival celebrates the region’s shared heritage. In Pego, it forms part of the wider patron saint celebrations honouring the Santísimo Ecce-Homo. Music played a central role, with parades accompanied by live bands performing pasodobles, Christian marches, and Moorish marches. The weekend also featured traditional dianas, embassies, and a children’s procession.
Axarquia
Almeria
Independence Day
Full-throttle action
THE village of Macharaviaya is staging Spain’s largest American Independence Day celebration to mark a historic 250th anniversary. Despite having only 500 residents, the Andalucian community decorates its whitewashed streets with patriotic banners and flags on Saturday, July 4. This popular annual event honours deep historical ties. Local hero Bernardo de Gálvez played a decisive role in the American Revolutionary War. As Spanish governor of Louisiana, he led forces against British positions in West Florida. Gálvez bravely sailed his ship alone under heavy enemy fire to breach the channel, inspiring his troops to victory. He later marched proudly with George Washington, and his portrait hangs in the US Capitol today. The Malaga Provincial Council recognises the celebrations as a Fiesta of Singular Tourist Interest. The festival programme features the US national anthem, historical recreations, barbecues, costume competitions, and fireworks.
ALBOX witnessed an intense weekend of motorsport during the second Ascent to the Sanctuary of Saliente. Serving as the second round of the 2026 Andalucian Mountain Championship, the event also decided crucial points for the Murcia Mountain Championship, the Almeria Provincial Council Cup, and the Andalucian Hill Climb Championship. Building on last year’s debut, the competition expanded to 60 teams, up from 39 in 2025. Sunday’s action featured touring cars, single-seaters, and car cross cup disciplines. Drivers tackled a demanding 3.8-kilometre route from the Los Aceituneros neighbourhood up the steep, hot slopes of the Al-7100 road. The event concluded with three decisive victories. Miguel Angel Clemente Hatero won the touring cars category, Esteban Perea Oriola extended his single-seater championship lead, and Juan Manuel Ramirez Martinez topped the Car Cross Cup podium, where a mere 37 thousandths of a second separated second and third place.
Mallorca
Costa Blanca South
Magaluf lights up
United in Fire
HUNDREDS of residents and visitors gathered in Magaluf to celebrate the official opening of the resort’s newly transformed promenade with one of Mallorca’s biggest free summer events. Families arrived early to claim spots on the beach, while local restaurants and businesses welcomed visitors with special offers and discounts, creating a lively festival atmosphere. An enormous stage overlooking the bay hosted the Balearic Symphony Orchestra. After dark, as some spectators swam in the Mediterranean Sea, the orchestra performed famous film scores accompanied by giant screens showing movie scenes. The evening concluded with around 300 drones rising into the air to form spectacular illuminated shapes above Magaluf Bay, including the Eiffel Tower, a camel, and Superman. The carefully choreographed display captivated spectators and marked a new chapter for Magaluf, bringing together locals, holidaymakers, and businesses to celebrate the resort’s future.
MORE than two million people filled the streets of Alicante as the city staged another spectacular Hogueras de San Juan festival. For five unforgettable days, residents welcomed visitors from across Spain and around the world to share in the city-wide celebration, which relied on the dedicated teamwork of thousands of volunteers, artists, musicians, and commission members. The event featured daily mascletas in Plaza de los Luceros and midnight fireworks over Postiguet Beach, drawing packed crowds. Throughout the year, neighbourhood commissions worked to design and build the iconic Hogueras monuments to preserve these generational customs. Emergency services, street cleaners, council workers, and volunteers ensured the celebrations ran safely before swiftly restoring the city once the final bonfires burned. Recognised as a Festival of International Tourist Interest, the event highlighted the community’s ability to unite and celebrate.
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PETS
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Sleepy pups
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IF your home suddenly feels covered in fur, don’t worry, your pet probably hasn’t decided to redecorate! Summer shedding is a natural process for many cats and dogs as they lose their thicker winter coat and prepare for warmer days. Shedding helps pets stay comfortable by allowing their bodies to adjust to changes in temperature. However, it can sometimes feel like the fur is everywhere, from the sofa to your favourite jumper. Regular grooming is one of the easiest ways to help. Brushing your pet more often removes loose fur before it ends up around your home and can also prevent mats and tangles, especially in longer-haired breeds. It’s also a lovely way to spend time together and check for any changes in your pet’s skin or coat. Keeping your pet hydrated and comfortable during warm weather is important too. A healthy diet can support a shiny coat, while regular cleaning of bed-
Credit: Shutterstock, Svetlana Bursuc
Shedding season
Summer season is shedding season.
ding can help keep your home feeling fresh. Some shedding is perfectly normal, but sudden or excessive hair loss, bald patches, or irrita-
ted skin may need a vet’s advice. So, grab the brush, embrace the fluff, and enjoy the sunny season with your four-legged friend.
DOGS may not speak our language, but their sleeping positions can reveal a surprising amount about how they feel. From sprawling across the sofa to curling into a tiny ball, every pose offers clues about comfort, confidence, and personality. One of the most common positions is the ‘curled-up fox’. Dogs that sleep tucked into a ball are often trying to conserve warmth and protect themselves. It is a natural instinct that dates back to their wild ancestors. Then there is the famous ‘belly-up’ position, with paws in the air and
absolutely no dignity. While it may look ridiculous, it is actually a strong sign of trust. Dogs expose their stomachs only when they feel completely safe and relaxed in their surroundings. The ‘superman’ pose, where a dog lies flat with legs stretched out, is especially popular with puppies and energetic breeds. It allows them to jump up quickly and return to play at a moment’s notice. Of course, every dog is different, but paying attention to sleeping habits can offer a fascinating glimpse into your pet’s emotional world.
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New Honda Super-N - small car, big fun? ROAD TEST By Mark Slack THOSE who mourned the loss of the quirky but desirable Honda E have cause for optimism as Honda has revealed its new Super-N compact EV. Priced from €22,039/£18,995, the Japanese car maker says it’s aimed to be an uplifting small car experience. Engineered on the lightweight platform of the hugely popular N Series ‘Kei’ car range sold in Japan, the Super-N has a ‘BOOST Mode’, which increases the power output of its compact e-Axle from 47kW to 70kW. A 0-100kph/62mph time of 10.0 seconds (vs. 14.51 seconds in ‘Normal Mode’) the emphasis is on a fun, responsive and accessible drive in all conditions. Unlike traditional EV models, the Super-N is extremely light, which makes it feel more agile and engaging to drive. Cars don’t necessarily have to be fast to be fun, and this is what Honda say they have aimed to do with the Super-N. A simulated seven-speed transmission and Hon-
da’s advanced Active Sound Control system generates an engaging engine sound, more akin to driving a combustion engine vehicle. Powered by a thin and lightweight 29.6kW lithium-ion battery, the Super-N delivers a ‘combined’
Credit: DGT
Rules of the road
New road rules affect everyone.
THE Spanish Council of Ministers recently approved a major reform of the country’s General Traffic Regulations to improve safety for vulnerable road users. Most of the updated laws take effect on October 1. The legislation officially defines “vulnerable road users” as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and e-scooter riders. For e-scooters, the minimum riding age rises to 15, and helmets, lights, and nighttime high-visibility vests become compulsory. Cyclists
must wear helmets on all roads, while vehicles overtaking them must reduce speed and leave a wider safety gap. Motorcyclists must wear protective gloves on outof-town roads and enclosed footwear on all routes. However, they may use the right-hand hard shoulder at up to 30 km/h during heavy congestion. All seatbelt exemptions for taxi and delivery drivers are abolished. In traffic jams, drivers must leave a clear lane for emergency vehicles. During
snowfall on motorways, overtaking is banned, and cars must stay in the right lane. Furthermore, vehicles passing a broken-down car must slow down by 20 km/h and leave a 1.5-metre clearance. In urban areas, flashing amber traffic lights will no longer coincide with green pedestrian signals. “School paths” also gain official legal status to protect walking children. Finally, motorhomes parked on public streets cannot extend awnings or steps.
range of 206km/128 miles (WLTP). However, in urban driving environments, where the compact and nimble Super-N is likely to spend much of its time, the battery provides a ‘city’ range of 320km/199 miles (WLTP). It can be recharged to 80 per cent using a 50kW DC supply in just 30 minutes. The car also features the brand’s renowned Honda ‘Magic Seats’ configuration, where they can be folded in multiple ways. As a result, the luggage area is extremely
versatile, with a maximum capacity of 162 litres with the rear seats up. In the dive-down configuration, the available space is increased to 967 litres, which is one of the largest in the A-segment. Bold exterior styling and a distinctive wide stance, flared wheel arches, and aero ducts, make the car a head turner and inside it features bolstered front seats. Both wired and wireless smartphone connectivity, enabled by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a powerful Bose sound system that has been tuned precisely for the interior’s dimensions and acoustics are also standard. The eight-speaker premium sound set-up features a 20cm subwoofer that has been designed specifically to fit under the Super-N’s boot, for a deep and rich bass response. It is available with a wide range of exterior colours, including the signature Boost Violet Pearl, and there is a two-tone finish that includes a contrasting gloss black roof panel and rear spoiler, plus several distinctive body graphic option packs. Sadly, for European fans, the Super-N is only planned for sale in the UK at the moment.
V16 beacon price drop Credit: Base - DGT - edited with AI
PRICES for mandatory V16 emergency breakdown beacons have collapsed to less than €8, down from an initial high of nearly €50. Wholesalers and importers currently hold massive excess stock following a sharp drop in consumer demand after rules took effect at the start of the year. Ongoing confusion over the regulations and political opposiWhat are the rules, again? tion trying to scrap the mandate entirely slowed down initial will not protect drivers from receiving retail sales. However, Spanish traffic fines. The beacon must only be deployed authorities are now preparing widespread summer roadside checks to when a vehicle is immobilised on the roadway due to an accident or meverify vehicles carry these units. More than 16 million vehicles still chanical breakdown. Drivers should lack the device. Motorists can find place the flashing orange light on the legal, approved models online and in car roof to alert traffic and automamajor supermarket chains for under tically transmit breakdown location €8 during current promotions. Buyers data. Keeping the device inside the must verify that the beacon includes glovebox ensures motorists do not an active link to the official DGT 3.0 need to step into hazardous road traffic platform, guaranteed for 12 conditions. Foreign-registered cars years. Older or non-connected units remain exempt.