Region of Murcia could become host to six teams during next World Cup
FRESH off the heels of the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in which the Spanish national team was crowned champion, the Region of Murcia is now beginning its countdown to the 2030 World Cup, as it could become one of the most significant sports tourism opportunities for the area.
Regional centres and local sports complexes are preparing to potentially host up to six international teams.
The 2030 World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, will expand to feature 64 participating nations.
Four major venues from the Region of Murcia are being
prepared to be included in FIFA’s official catalogue of possible team bases.
Some of the Murcian sites that are being eyed for the
Pitch perfect Holiday hotspot
next World Cup include the established Pinatar Arena in San Pedro del Pinatar, the Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Resort in Cartagena,
the DoubleTree by Hilton, La Torre Golf and Spa Resort in Torre Pacheco, and the newly developing Alhama Arena Football Centre in Alhama de Murcia. A fifth nearby complex, La Finca Resort in neighbouring Algorfa, is also integrated into the network via Pinatar Arena.
With this exciting new development and football fever for the next World Cup already building up, the Region of Murcia is jumping at this prime opportunity to boost its global tourism profile, attract sports investors, and continue to establish itself as one of Spain’s premier football training destinations.
Region of Murcia breaks records for tourist occupation
THE Costa Calida prepares for a record-breaking busy and touristic summer. The Region of Murcia is welcoming August with a positive forecast for holiday accommodation: 89.1 per cent of the tourist properties located on the Costa Calida have already been booked, placing this area of the region above the 85.5 per cent national average.
This figure also represents the largest year-on-year increase compared to all other Spanish coastlines, according to data from Rentalia, a holiday rental platform owned by Idealista. The occupancy on the coast of the Region of Murcia has risen from 80.6 per cent in August 2025, representing an increase of 8.5 percentage points.
This data comes from an analysis carried out by Rentalia, focusing on availability calendars of accommodations that are less than 15 kilometres from a Spanish beach. On a national
Solmarket summer
Los Alcazares kicks off long-awaited festival
LOS ALCAZARES is celebrating one of its most anticipated events, due to light up the shores of its beaches through to the end of August. Solmarket Murcia, an open-air festival involving food trucks, live entertainment, and artisan stalls, has officially kicked off on the final day of July and transformed the Parque del Gonio in Los Alcazares into a gathering of world flavours, and dynamic energy under the Mediterranean skies.
The main appeal of the festival, running every day until August 30 from 7.00pm to 12.30am, is its diverse food truck lineup, which will feature more than a dozen mobile kitchens to serve up an array of international foods.
Visitors can enjoy authentic Mexican tacos and quesadillas, traditional Colombian fare, and Asian cuisine including freshly prepared
sushi. The sweet offerings are just as expansive, featuring hot crepes, artisanal cookies, milkshakes from Bobbolitas, and gourmet pops from Pops’n Bobs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free alternatives ensure there is something for every palate to enjoy.
Solmarket will also offer entertainment for residents of all ages. The central stage will feature a daily lineup of tribute concerts, live band performances, and DJ sets providing the perfect soundtrack to the evening.
scale, the projected occupancy rate for August is up one percentage point compared to the same period last year.
With these figures, the Region of Murcia’s coastline is one of the most booked areas in the whole of Spain.
Costa Cálida I No. 2144 I 6 - 12 August 2026 I FREE Newspape r
Murcia prepares luxury facilities to host six 2030 World Cup teams.
Costa Calida holiday rental bookings surge to record levels this August.
Photo Credit: Region of Murcia
Solmarket Murcia offers food trucks and live entertainment all August.
Healing hope Patron parties
THE month of August has come in full swing, and for the neighbourhoods and districts of Cartagena, the streets have been filled with a festive atmosphere and the parties have been non-stop as several areas in the municipality ring in their patron saint festivities.
The first weekend of the month marked the start of several celebra-
tions, including in Perin, Canteras, and La Azohia.
In Perin, where festivities run through August 16, some of the highlights include the Lucero Trail Race, the quirky Donkey Day celebration, the traditional climb of Lucero to the bell tower, and solemn religious acts in honor of the Virgen de la Piedad. Coastal La Azohia also honours the Virgen de la Asunción with a
rich two-week schedule.
In Canteras, residents are enjoying a varied programme running until August 15 that mixes live music, athletic contests, and local customs.
In addition to these, the Los Gallos festival is set to continue throughout August, with open-air dances, a family lottery, tastings, contests, a migas (a traditional dish) dinner, a domino tournament, and various musical and pyrotechnic shows.
Once more, in the municipality of Cartagena, traditions are being kept alive, communities are participating, and residents are experiencing a fun way to ring in the summer in different towns, neighbourhoods, and districts.
A DEDICATED, community-led project aiming to offer support to those diagnosed with cancer, as well as their loved ones, caregivers, and support network, has officially been launched in the coastal municipality of Mazarron. Alas de Esperanza, or Wings of Hope, is a support network and local non-profit organisation that aims to offer accompaniment, guidance, and authentic human connection to those living with cancer as well as their loved ones in Mazarron.
The association officially made its public debut on Friday, July 31, with a presentation held at Calle Fuenterravía.
During the event, the organisation’s mission was made clear: not to serve as just a point of information for patients living with cancer, but to establish a
warm and accessible meeting point where those diagnosed can be heard, understood, and feel close to their community.
To be specific, the organisation will offer comprehensive psychological and social support services, in order to assist families and neighbours through diagnosis, active treatment, and post-treatment recovery.
The establishment of this essential non-profit organisation comes at a critical time for the public health and wellness sphere in the Region of Murcia. According to health statistics for Murcia from the Regional Health Authority, more than 9,400 new cancer diagnoses appear every year, averaging out to roughly 26 new cases every single day across the Costa Calida and regionwide.
Cartagena districts celebrate August with music, sports, and patronal traditions.
Photo Credit: Cartagena City Hall
A new community-led organisation launches to support Mazarron cancer patients.
Rules for the eclipse
WARNINGS FOR VISITORS
AUTHORITIES across Spain are introducing stricter wildfire prevention measures ahead of this month’s total solar eclipse, warning visitors that celebrations and outdoor gatherings must not increase the risk of devastating fires.
The eclipse on Wednesday, August 12, is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of people to rural areas, forests and open landscapes where visibility will be best. However, the event falls during one of Spain’s most dangerous wildfire periods, with high temperatures and
dry vegetation creating ideal conditions for fires to spread. Aragon is expected to receive around 400,000 visitors and has introduced temporary restrictions from August 10 to 13. Measures include bans on unauthorised parties, restrictions on activities that could create sparks, and tighter controls around forest areas.
Authorities warn that small mistakes, including discarded cigarettes, unattended fires and vehicles parked on dry vegetation, can trigger serious blazes in extreme conditions. Anyone breaking
TENANTS and landlords across Spain will have to wait a little longer for the government’s promised housing reforms after ministers postponed the planned decree until at least September.
The package had been expected before Parliament’s summer break but was delayed after the government failed to secure enough political support, leaving the current rules in place.
That means rental contracts continue exactly as before. New agreements can still be signed and existing leases renewed under the current legislation. The proposed right for eligible tenants to extend expiring residential contracts by up to two years has not come into force.
Rules on rent increases also remain unchanged. Landlords can continue reviewing rents in line with
the restrictions could face significant penalties, with serious offences carrying fines of up to €100,000. Visitors planning to watch the eclipse outdoors are urged to check local regulations, use designated areas and avoid activities involving flames or sparks.
The eclipse is expected to provide a major boost for rural tourism, but authorities want the event to pass without creating a new wildfire emergency. The few minutes of darkness must not leave years of destruction behind.
Package holiday protection
Refund rules updated
BOOKING a package holiday in Spain thankfully will soon come with stronger financial protection. A major update to Europe’s rules, Directive (EU) 2026/1024, aims to fix the refund delays and voucher disputes that left millions of travellers extremely frustrated during past travel chaos.
The directive has been officially adopted, and Spain is currently transferring the measures into national law over a 28-month transition period. Once active, the framework introduces a strict seven-day business-to-business refund rule requiring airlines and hotels to reimburse tour operators quickly, allowing agencies to pay back customers within the mandatory 14-day limit. Vouchers will also receive a vital safety net. Any travel voucher offered must be voluntary, protected against operator insolvency, and automatically refunded as cash if unused upon expiry.
The changes apply to flight-and-hotel bundles sold through Spanish agencies, but exclude flight-only bookings, which remain governed under Regulation (EC) 261/2004. While the new rules are not yet in force, travellers are advised to keep booking records and verify insolvency protections before paying. For residents, expatriates, and tourists travelling and booking holidays from Spain, the upcoming changes will bring faster refunds, safer vouchers, and guaranteed peace of mind when holiday plans go wrong.
Housing reforms delayed euroweeklynews.com
the legislation currently in force, as the proposed nationwide rent freeze has not been introduced.
There are no immediate changes for seasonal rentals, room-by-room lets or tourist accommodation either. Property owners can continue operating under the existing legal framework, including current regional and local licensing requirements.
Rental platforms such as Airbnb and Booking. com must also continue complying with the registration and licensing rules already in place, with no additional nationwide obligations approved.
For now, landlords, tenants and holiday rental owners should continue following the existing legal framework while awaiting further developments. The government has indicated it intends to revive the reforms after the summer.
Planned decree postponed until at least September.
Authorities have warned that small mistakes can lead to wildfires.
THE Trovalia International Festival of Improvised Oral Poetry has officially concluded its incredible 21st edition in Mar de Cristal, after touring various venues in the municipality of Cartagena. The event brought together participants from five Latin American countries and several autonomous communities in Spain, re-establishing Cartagena as a global leader in this type of traditional, improvised oral poetry.
For several days, this incredible event turned Cartagena into the epicentre of improvised verse, traditional music and culture between international artists. Finally, the programme
Trovo tradition
was brought to a close in Mar de Cristal after making stops in famed locations across Cartagena including the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and Isla Plana. This event, over more than two decades of activi-
ty, has helped to bring the tradition of trovo close to residents and visitors from different parts of Cartagena and beyond. This year’s edition of Trovalia stood out for its participation from countries including Cuba, Panama, Argentina, Colombia and Puerto Rico, as well as representatives from Spanish autonomous communities of the Canary Islands and Galicia.
Fall of Nero
FANCY stepping back nearly 2,000 years and finding yourself in the middle of a plot to overthrow an emperor? This August, Cartagena is giving visitors the chance to do exactly that with a thrilling new night-time theatrical experience at the Roman Forum Museum.
Running every Friday from August 7 at 9 pm, Galba, the Enemy of Nero brings one of ancient Rome’s most dramatic power struggles vividly to life. Organised by Cartagena Puerto de Culturas, the immersive production follows the turbulent final days of Emperor Nero, as betrayal, ambition and political intrigue pave the way for Galba’s rise to power.
the Curia, creating an unforgettable atmosphere after dark.
A mix of music, expression, and the art of poetry, trovo is a unique art that has bridged the divide for more than two decades in the shining municipality of Cartagena.
Rather than sitting back and watching, visitors become part of the action, moving through the spectacular archaeological remains alongside the actors. The route takes in some of the museum’s most impressive settings, including the Atrium Building, the Temple of Isis and
The production stars Jose Antonio Ortas as the infamous Nero and Jesus Teatino as Galba, with the cast from Ditirambo Espectáculos promising an evening packed with tension, history and drama. Tickets are priced at €15, with reduced admission available for €7, and can be booked through Cartagena Puerto de Culturas or purchased at its museums and visitor centres.
International artists gathered in Cartagena to celebrate traditional improvised poetry.
Immersive night tours bring ancient Rome to life.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Cartagena
Photo Credit: Cartagena City Hall
Pigeon wars
THE last time humans declared war on birds was Australia’s infamous Emu War of 1932. Armed with machine guns, soldiers set out to defeat thousands of crop-raiding emus... and somehow lost (no, seriously). Murcia is now hoping it’s own battle with birds ends rather differently. Fortunately, there are no weapons involved this time. Instead, the city council has launched what could best be described as siege warfare, urging residents to stop feeding pigeons in the hope of cutting off their main food supply.
Officials say the growing flocks are leaving some neighbours at breaking point, with complaints over noise, droppings, hygiene and damage to buildings continuing to pile up. The campaign’s message is simple: “Feeding them doesn’t help them, it har-
ms us all.” The pigeons, meanwhile, have dismissed the allegations as “propaganda” and insist the campaign is nothing more than fake news. Murcia says excessive pigeon numbers are damaging historic buildings, increasing cleaning costs and upsetting the balance of urban wildlife. Rather than relying on harsher control methods, the city wants
residents to change their habits. Reinforcements have also arrived in the form of Project Falco, which deploys trained peregrine falcons to frighten and disperse pigeon flocks. Four new feathered recruits have now joined the mission.
The council’s message is clear, if Murcia wants fewer pigeons, the first step is putting away the breadcrumbs.
Football & festivities
MORE than 700 children are set to participate in the fourth edition of the Mojon Cup football tournament, a championship which will be held at the José Antonio Pérez Stadium in Lo Pagan from Friday, August 7, to Sunday, August 9. The tournament is set to bring together more than 56 teams, from under-8s to under-14s to children’s categories, and is marking another record-breaking milestone for the growing competition.
Held every year as a prelude to the El Mojon patron saint festivities in honour of an Roque, this year’s edition of the tournament is expected to be the biggest yet, featuring a total of 56 teams and more than
700 players across different categories in the area.
This year’s venue, the José Antonio Pérez Stadium in Lo Pagan and its adjoining pitch, was a strategic move on the part of the organisers to accommodate the expanding roster of participating teams, as well as a way to offer players a dynamic stage to showcase their skills, teamwork, and passion for the sport of football.
With three action-packed days of youth football set against the backdrop of San Pedro del Pinatar’s warm coastal hospitality, the fourth edition of the Mojon Cup promises to deliver memorable moments for players, coaches, and spectators alike.
Neighbours are at breaking point.
Photo credit: K Arun Singh/Shutterstock
Over 700 young footballers compete in the annual Mojon Cup.
Photo Credit: San Pedro del Pinatar Town Hall
Calima Calamity
FOR many people across Murcia, the calima means dusty cars and grey skies.
But for thousands living with asthma, allergies and respiratory conditions, the Saharan dust cloud has brought a much more serious problem.
Health authorities are warning about increased levels of PM2.5 particles, tiny pollutants capable of travelling deep into the lungs and causing problems for vulnerable groups.
Unlike visible dust, these microscopic particles cannot be seen but can worsen breathing difficulties, triggering coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. People with asthma, COPD and other chronic lung conditions are among those most at risk, while allergy sufferers are also reporting worsening symptoms as
dust combines with summer pollen.
Authorities are advising children, older adults, pregnant women and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions to reduce prolonged outdoor activity while air quality remains poor.
Residents are being encouraged to monitor official pollution updates and avoid strenuous
exercise outside during periods of high contamination.
While the calima will eventually disappear with changing weather conditions, for many residents the current episode is a reminder that air pollution is not just about dirty streets or hazy skies. For some, it affects something much more basic: the ability to breathe.
Abandonment plot twist
WHAT began as a distressing animal rescue in La Unión ended with an unexpected twist after police say the person who reported an abandoned dog turned out to be its owner. Local Police were called after a woman reported finding a dog tied to a tree. Officers rescued the animal but were unable to identify its owner because it had no legally required microchip.
The dog was taken into the care of the municipal collection service while officers investigated how it had ended up abandoned. According to the Local Police of La Union, further enquiries revealed the animal had belonged to the same woman who contacted police. Officers allege she had cared for the dog for several years and wanted to get rid of it without paying the fee required to surrender it through the proper channels.
The woman has now been reported for alleged animal abandonment
and for failing to microchip the dog, both legal responsibilities for pet owners in Spain. Animal welfare groups have long warned that shelters face increasing pressure during the summer months as abandonment cases rise.
For the rescued dog, the outcome is far brighter than the moment it was discovered tied to a tree. It is now receiving care while the administrative investigation continues, but the case has become another sad story of neglect that many pets suffer during the summer months in Spain.
Help for families
The support means more than financial help.
FOR many families, summer is no longer just about holidays. With food prices rising and the cost of returning to school approaching, every euro counts. San Pedro del Pinatar Town Council has approved €35,000 in new funding to support vulnerable households, helping families access fresh food and ensuring students have the books they need for the new school year.
The largest part of the package, €30,000, will strengthen the municipality’s Cesta Solidaria programme, which works
alongside Cáritas and the Red Cross to provide food assistance. Unlike traditional food collections, the initiative focuses on fresh and perishable products, including fruit, vegetables and dairy items, foods often removed first from household budgets during financial pressure.
Cáritas Parroquial will receive €17,046, while the Red Cross has been allocated €12,954. A further €5,000 will support the Municipal Book Bank, helping families avoid the high cost of textbooks, particu-
larly for students in Bachillerato who are not covered by Murcia’s free book programme.
For many parents, the support means more than financial help. It means children returning to school with the same opportunities as their classmates and families avoiding impossible choices between education and essential food. As living costs continue to rise, the council says the funding targets two priorities no household should have to sacrifice: food and education.
Microscopic particles cannot be seen but can worsen breathing difficulties.
Photo credit: Elena Krivorotova/Shutterstock
The woman has now been reported for alleged animal abandonment
Photo credit: Policía Local La Unión on Facebook
Photo credit: Carmen Agullo/Shutterstock
Pelayos park closes
AVENTURA AMAZONIA
Pelayos has closed after wildfires damaged the woodland it relies on. Set beside the San Juan reservoir in Pelayos de la Presa, the park has operated for 17 years.
Unlike a conventional theme park, a treetop course cannot simply relocate. Platforms, walkways and zip lines depend on the health of living trees. Current conditions make reopening impossible while maintaining usual safety standards.
Wildfires tore through Madrid’s Sierra Oeste region after three separate blazes merged into one. A national emergency was declared covering Madrid, Avila and Toledo. Around 34,000 hectares have burned in the Community of Madrid, and more than 56,500 residents were evacuated or confined at the height of the crisis. Firefighters
continue tackling hot spots, despite the fire being declared stabilised. Pelayos has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors since opening. Families, schools, companies and athletes have marked birthdays and personal milestones there. Company representatives said every tree “represented a story, a memory and a commit-
ment to nature.”
Closure is not necessarily permanent. Technicians and local authorities are assessing damage and considering whether rebuilding on the original site is feasible, pending environmental studies and permits. Alternative options are also being explored should reconstruction prove unworkable.
Another orca attack
FEW sights at sea must be as unsettling as watching a pod of killer whales heading directly towards your boat. For the crew of a yacht off the coast of Spain, that breathtaking moment quickly turned into a fight for survival as the animals repeatedly rammed the vessel before it sank.
This latest incident happened off the coast of Galicia on Friday, July 24, where two sailors were rescued after their yacht began taking on water following re-
peated strikes to its rudder by a group of Iberian orcas.
It is the latest in a string of unusual encounters that have puzzled marine experts since 2020. More than 500 interactions have now been recorded in waters off Spain and Portugal, with several boats damaged or sunk. The whales almost always target sailing yachts and focus on the rudder rather than the people on board.
Scientists still cannot say exactly why the behaviour
began. Some believe it may have started after one whale experienced a traumatic encounter with a boat, while others think younger orcas have simply copied the behaviour as a form of play or social learning.
Researchers stress there is no evidence the whales are attacking humans. Instead, they say the incidents involve an endangered population of Iberian orcas displaying a rare and still unexplained learned behaviour.
Tenerife South huge overhaul
TENERIFE SOUTH Airport is set for its biggest overhaul yet to date, with Aena planning a huge €550 million rebuild designed to make life easier for flyers, especially the many UK holidaymakers who use the airport. Te-
nerife draws more than 7 million visitors a year, making the island one of Spain’s most popular winter-sun destinations.
Aena has started the tender process for the full remodelling of the terminal area. Work is due to
begin in autumn 2027 and will be split into 57 phases. The first stage will focus on the car park, before attention then turns to the terminal, baggage areas and passenger facilities. The terminal surface is expected to grow by almost 50 per cent. Aena says the project will bring travellers a new check-in area, a centralised baggage reclaim hall, upgraded security and passport controls, and a new bigger boarding area. The aim is to improve passenger flow and reduce bottlenecks at peak busy times.
No immediate changes are expected for passengers, but some disruption is likely once construction begins. Aena says the scattered phased approach is designed to keep the airport operating smoothly throughout the major works. Future plans also leave room for a possible South Train connection.
Aventura Amazonia closes due to fires. Credit:Vitalii
Latest incident happened off the cast of Galicia.
EXPATRIATES in Spain face ongoing confusion regarding the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES). A survey of expatriates conducted in June 2026 revealed that 42 per cent mistakenly believed a Spanish residency card allowed them to use automated e-gates at passport control.
EES confusion
In reality, valid Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) holders are fully exempt from EES biometric checks and the automatic 90-day short-stay limit. However, automated e-gates only scan passport chips and cannot verify
residency cards. Passing through an e-gate risks registering a resident as a short-stay tourist, which can lead to false overstayer alerts on future trips.
Border officials advise TIE holders to avoid e-gates entirely. Instead, travellers should join the designated queue for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens and residents. At the manned desk, residents must present both their passport and physical TIE card together for manual processing.
This border exemption applies strictly to physical biometric TIE cards. Older paper residency documents, such as green certificates, no longer qualify for exemption at frontier controls. Anyone still holding paper certificates should exchange them for a biometric TIE card as soon as possible.
Carrying the physical card, keeping it visible in hand, and selecting the correct lane ensures smooth border checks.
The bank text trap
A BANK message that cost one person nearly €30,000 has led police to a database containing personal and banking information relating to around half a million people.
Guardia Civil announced 13 arrests and five further suspects under investigation on July 22 following a two-year inquiry known as Operation Fragmenta. Police measures took place in Madrid, Palma de Mallorca, Valencia and Toledo.
Investigators say the
alleged operation sent convincing SMS messages that directed people to fake online banking pages. After login details were entered, callers posing as bank employees allegedly asked victims to read out security codes.
Those codes could then be used to transfer money or apply for pre-approved loans in the victim’s name.
Three searches in Valencia province and Madrid recovered cash, phones, computers and documen-
tation. Police have identified nearly 2,000 possible victims, but that does not mean everyone included in the 500,000-person database lost money or had their account accessed.
Guardia Civil said banks never request passwords or verification codes through unexpected calls, texts or emails. Customers should check suspicious messages through their bank’s official app or independently verified telephone number.
Cash recovered during Operation Fragmenta.
Pink basket romance
FED UP with dating apps, awkward first dates and endless swiping?
Finland may have found a surprisingly simple alternative: finding love while doing the weekly shop.
A growing supermarket trend sees single shoppers picking up bright pink baskets to signal they’re open to meeting someone. Known as the Sinkkukori, or ‘single basket’, the idea has gone viral after videos on social media racked up millions of views.
The concept is designed to make meeting people feel more natural, allowing shoppers to strike up conversations over everyday purchases instead of online profiles.
The trend has prompted plenty of jokes online, with one person commenting that they’d probably choose the pink basket simply because it looked nicer,
while another joked they might end up wondering why strangers suddenly seemed so friendly.
Spain had its own supermarket dating craze last year, when an upside-down pineapple in a Mercadona trolley became the unofficial sign that someone was sin-
gle. The viral trend saw shoppers deliberately heading to stores in the evening hoping to meet potential partners.
For anyone unaware of the latest dating signals, though, choosing a pretty pink basket could lead to far more attention than they bargained for.
Fizzy find in Florence
MONKS in Florence have uncovered a 19th-century recipe for a coca-and-kola tonic that may predate Coca-Cola itself. The faded leaflet was found during routine cleaning at the Convent of San Marco’s historic pharmacy archives. Father Manuel Russo, rector of the convent, said the “fortifying wine elixir” was once among the pharmacy’s best-sellers. The recipe calls for 30g of kola nuts and 10g of Bolivian coca leaves, steeped in one litre of alcohol. These ingredients mirror those later used by American pharmacist John Pemberton in his 1880s French Wine Coca, which evolved into the non-alcoholic Coca-Cola in 1886. Missionaries are believed to have brought both ingredients to Tus-
cany, where monastic pharmacies made such remedies for locals. The Tuscan formula appears decades older than Pemberton’s creation, raising questions about whether Europe beat the US to the idea. Still, Father Russo stressed there is no evidence of a direct link to the global brand. Unlike modern Coca-Cola, the Florentine version was wine-based, a common restorative in 19th-century Italy and France. Pemberton only switched to water and syrup when Atlanta introduced temperance rules. The discovery, reported on Tuesday, July 29, offers a rare glimpse into monastic life and early tonic culture. It also adds a European chapter to a story long told as purely American.
Love in the supermarket aisle.
Credit: Instagram/royaventurera
Was the recipe from Italy?
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Half-year loss
TELEFONICA reported a €338 million net loss in the first half of 2026, a 75 per cent decrease compared to the same period in 2025. This was driven by the sale of its Chilean business and restructuring in Germany. Despite these one-off charges, it maintained its full-year financial guidance unchanged overall.
Age barrier
DESPITE Spain achieving record employment and its lowest unemployment rate since 2008, nearly 500,000 people aged over 55 remain unemployed. Older jobseekers account for one in five unemployed people, with those over 60 facing worsening prospects. Campaigners urge employers to tackle age discrimination.
DCC takeover
DCC ENERGY has agreed to a takeover worth around £3.8 billion, leading to its departure from the FTSE 100 index. The deal reflects growing private equity interest in energy infrastructure assets. Shareholders will receive a cash offer of £65.25 a share as the company transitions into private ownership.
Madrid overtakes
MADRID has become Spain’s largest tourism market, overtaking the Canary Islands as stronger growth in international visitors and premium urban travel boost visitor spending. The capital has welcomed more than 16 million tourists this year, highlighting a shift toward higher-yield city tourism.
Re-sale rise
SPAIN’S housing market continues to surge, with resale property prices rising 17.2 per cent year on year in the second quarter. Strong demand, limited supply and lower borrowing costs are driving prices, making it difficult for first-time buyers to enter the market.
According to Eurostat, the EU’s gross energy consumption from renewable sources reached 26.2 per cent in 2025, up from 25.2 per cent in 2024.
Fire funding
THIS summer, Spain has seen some of its worst wildfires in recent years, a stark reminder that climate change comes with a growing cost. Once the flames have been extinguished, and the smoke has subsided, the Spanish government will be left facing a hefty bill. Initial estimates place the cost of recent wildfires between €1.7 to €3.3 billion for firefighting operations alone, and the fire season is not over yet.
Last year, 354,763 hectares of land were burnt across 8,189 recorded incidents, costing between €3.5 to €6.7 billion. So far this year, 172,396 hectares have been lost to the flames, meaning the cost of tackling wildfires will likely match, or exceed 2025’s total. Costs will be further compounded by the losses in tourism and agriculture.
Following the devastating fires that have ravaged the country, there has been renewed emphasis on the importance of fire prevention.
Official data shows that less than 30 per cent of Autonomous Communities’ wildfire budgets are allocated to preventative measures. Of the €600 million dedicated to fighting forest fires, around €174 million is directed towards preliminary prevention activities. At a State level, prevention spending represents an even smaller share of the overall budget. Comparatively, prevention efforts accounted for a
Next-gen travel
GEN-Z have become the driving force behind strong tourism figures this year, with 80 per cent of young people planning an international getaway, according to a report by Allianz Partners.
Unlike traditional holidaymakers focused on short breaks, younger travellers are increasingly choosing longer stays combining leisure with remote work. This “work from anywhere” trend is encouraging visi-
tors to spend more time and money in destinations, increasing demand for accommodation, experiences and local services.
Spanish travellers are also shifting away from quick getaways, with longer and more relaxed holidays becoming increasingly popular. For the tourism industry, this represents a valuable economic boost, as extended stays typically generate higher spending per visitor and spread re-
much larger proportion of wildfire spending in previous years.
Experts argue that investing in prevention is not only essential for protecting landscapes and communities, but also economically beneficial.
Preventative measures can significantly reduce the costs associated with firefighting, recovery and the destruction caused by increasingly severe wildfires.
venue beyond major tourist hotspots.
The impact is significant for Spain, where tourism remains a major contributor to economic activity and employment.
Price push AI windfall Hospitality
THE Spanish government has approved a €15 million hospitality aid programme, set to revitalise the sector and strengthen competitiveness. Hospitality is one of Spain’s strongest tourist activities, accounting for 60 per cent of the sector’s employment. As such, the programme will not only benefit businesses, but Spain’s entire tourism industry. Eligible establishments will receive a grant of €5,000 to €11,000 to replace old appliances with energy efficient alternatives, helping to reduce fixed cost and energy demand.
LOVE it or hate it, one thing is certain: the price of Marmite is going up, along with other Unilever brands like Dove and Hellmanns.
Unilever reported a strong second quarter, with sales rising 5.8 per cent to €13 billion, marking its best quarterly performance in more than a decade. The company has also posted a €3.3 billion net profit so far in 2026. However, consumers can expect higher prices as rising oil prices have increased expenses across sourcing, manufacturing and transport. Despite price increases, demand for branded products has remained resilient.
SAMSUNG’S record-breaking quarter underlines how artificial intelligence is reshaping the global semiconductor industry. The South Korean technology giant reported operating profit of €54 billion for the April to June period, a 1,814 per cent year-on-year increase, fuelled by soaring demand for AI memory chips and higher chip prices. Revenue also reached an all-time high of €103.5 billion. Despite losses in its consumer electronics division, Samsung expects robust demand for AI infrastructure and server memory to continue into the second half of the year, although it warned that memory chip shortages could intensify as AI investment accelerates.
SPAIN’S jobs market has reached a new milestone, with a record 22.8 million people now in work after almost 486,000 jobs were created between April and June. Seasonal summer hiring, particularly in the services sector, helped push the unemployment rate below 10 per cent for the first time since 2008, falling to 9.87 per cent. While the figures reflect a strong labour market, Spain still has one of the highest unemployment rates in the EU.
SPAIN continues to use cash more frequently than most Eurozone countries, with many consumers still relying on notes and coins for everyday payments. While cash remains widely available, the country faces a growing risk of exclusion as bank branches close and digital payment systems expand. Vulnerable groups, including older people and those with limited digital access, may struggle to maintain easy access to essential financial services without reliable cash options.
AMAZON’S Jeff Bezos and the UK government have backed Cambridge-based AI startup CuspAI, which has raised £330 million in Series B funding, valuing the twoyear-old company at £2 billion. CuspAI uses artificial intelligence to discover new materials that could speed up advances in semiconductors, clean energy and carbon capture. The company has also launched the AI Materials Foundry, bringing together more than 48 partners, including Nvidia, Meta and Hyundai.
Gen-z reshape travel trends.
Credit: New Africa / Shutterstock
Forest fires have sparked funding debate.
3I Group 2.896,00 2.901,00 2.868,00 120,27K
Admiral Group 3.778,00 3.792,00 3.755,10 20,87K
Airtel Africa 339,2 343,18 338 156,9K
Anglo American 3.844,00 3.869,00 3.782,00 420,53K
Antofagasta 3.813,00 3.841,00 3.765,00 94,92K
Associated British Foods 2.090,00 2.133,00 2.068,00 52,06K
AstraZeneca 12.814,00 12.894,00 12.680,00 167,69K
Auto Trader Group Plc 526,2 527,2 522 206,98K
Aviva 697,4 700,6 691,4 615,01K
B M European Value Retail 223,8 225,91 222,6 212,44K
BAE Systems 2.115,00 2.123,00 2.050,00 675,7K
Barclays 516,6 520,5 512,1 4,69M
Barratt Redrow 296,3 299,5 290,6 527,82K
Beazley 1.293,00 1.295,00 1.292,00 130,08K
Berkeley 3.496,00 3.512,00 3.466,00 15,26K
BP 545,2 546,9 538,6 3,48M British American Tobacco 4.541,00 4.581,00 4.523,00 243,34K
BT
1,73M
2.794,00 2.772,00 20,07K
154,63 155 152,55 918,18K
HBC AG 5.080,00 5.085,00 5.025,00 25,7K
31,42 31,96 31,26 157,35K
Group 228,8 230,2 227,8 255,42K
Intl 3.295,00 3.309,00 3.266,00 14,7K
2.583,00 2.544,00 27,15K
1.824,00 1.809,00 45,37K
Euro
Currency outlook: US dollar rocked by fresh hostilities in the Gulf, Pound stabilises as UK political risks fade
EUR/GBP: Down from £0.86 to £0.85
EUR/USD: Down from $1.14 to $1.13
The euro got off to a poor start in July, being pressured by some dovish signals from the European Central Bank (ECB).
While subsequent signals from the ECB struck a more hawkish note, the single currency remained pressured by weak Eurozone inflation and concerns over European energy security.
The focus now turns to upcoming Eurozone data, with a particular focus on inflation as EUR investors seek to gauge the odds of the ECB delivering up to two interest rate hikes by the end of the year.
Pound
GBP/EUR: Up from €1.16 to €1.17
GBP/USD: Unchanged at $1.32
The pound got off to a positive start in July, as GBP investors priced out recent UK political risk premium as Keir Starmer’s resignation ended months of speculation over his future.
While Sterling sentiment remained broadly positive as Andy Burnham took
BUSINESS EXTRA
Cost cuts
PUBS and clubs across England will soon feel some relief, as Prime Minister Andy Burnham announces a 20 per cent cut on business rates from April. Some 32,000 establishments will benefit, saving around £1,100 annually. Burnham also previously announced removing VAT from electricity bills, and a £2 bus fare cap.
Air growth
SPANISH airport operator Aena posted a firsthalf net profit of €1.002 billion, up 10.5 per cent year on year, while revenue climbed 9.1 per cent to €3.3 billion. Strong passenger growth and higher commercial income drove the results, highlighting continued demand for air travel and airport services.
office, the honeymoon period didn’t last long, with rising UK borrowing costs and mixed UK economic data curbing demand for the pound in the latter half of
the month.
Looking ahead, markets will be keeping a close eye on the correlation between Burnham’s performance and the UK
Cheese in trouble
SPAIN’S traditional sheep and goat cheese industry is facing mounting pressure as a wave of imports transforms the market and threatens the survival of smaller producers. In 2025, Spain imported around 435,000 tonnes of cheese, while domestic sheep and goat milk production fell by 3 per cent and 5 per cent respectively. The rise of cheaper foreign cheese is squeezing farmers’ margins and making it harder for artisanal producers to compete. Industry representatives
Football for sale
FIFA has come under fire recently, following an announcement it plans to sell the commercial rights to its tournaments, including the World Cup which recently grossed a record breaking €13 billion.
FIFA is reportedly working with US bank, JP Morgan, to explore setting up a minority stake subsidiarity through which private investors can purchase
shares in men’s and women’s football. Money raised would then be invested in infrastructure, competitions, grassroots and women’s football.
UEFA were quick to criticise, claiming FIFA were selling the “soul” of football. Following the backlash, FIFA stressed investors would not be investing in FIFA itself, nor would they play an operational role in the organisation.
bond market in the coming weeks, with the pound at risk of slipping if any of his fiscal policies alarm bond investors.
US Dollar
USD/GBP: Unchanged at £0.75
USD/EUR: Up from €0.87 to €0.88
The US dollar has traded erratically in recent weeks, with the resumption and subsequent pause of hostilities in the Middle East a major contributing factor.
Mixed US economic indicators, including a lacklustre payroll print and softer-than-forecast inflation, also infused volatility into USD exchange rates throughout July.
A key focus for USD investors in August will be the Federal Reserve’s annual Jackson Hole symposium, where the US central bank may offer more insight into how it may shape monetary policy through the second half of 2026.
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.
warn that the sector risks becoming “uberised”, wherein low-cost, large-scale productions replace traditional farming methods and local production.
The consequences could extend far beyond the dairy sector. Sheep and goat farming plays an important role in maintaining rural economies, supporting jobs and preserving agricultural traditions in Spain. A decline in local production could accelerate rural depopulation, increase dependence on imports and weaken the country’s reputation for high-quality regional cheeses. However, demand for cheese remains strong overall. The cheese market made up 0.22 per cent of Spain’s total exports in 2025, generating €881 million in sales, up 4.89 per cent on 2024. Producers believe the future of Spanish cheese depends on consumers prioritising quality, origin and traditional production.
Trillion milestone
APPLE has become the second company to reach a market capitalisation of $5 trillion (€4.4 trillion) when shares closed at $340.08 (€298.50). Notably, Apple hasn’t kept up with its competition in AI investment. Despite worries the company wasn’t capitalising off the boom, Apple stock has rallied, keeping pace with Nvidia for market supremacy.
Private markets
REVOLUT has introduced access to private markets in Spain, enabling customers to invest from just €1 through European Long-Term Investment Funds (ELTIFs). These offer exposure to private equity, credit and infrastructure. Although the low entry point increases accessibility, these investments are relatively illiquid and best suited to long-term portfolios.
Delayed retribution
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
I TRUST you have all been poised on the edges of your seats; desperate to discover the outcome of last week’s saga of ‘stag party shenanigans’? For the uninitiated, this involved our tale of the somewhat extreme party frolic, which resulted in the unfortunate groom, not only getting married, but subsequently leaving for his honeymoon, wearing a plaster cast prepared by hospital colleagues.
Our unsuspecting hero had been convinced that, while rmly under the inuence, he had actually broken his arm. Naturally, on his return, when the conspiracy was nally revealed, he had not exactly been a happy budgie! As time passed however, all appeared to have been forgiven and forgotten. So, if you’re all sitting comfortably, I’ll begin.
We now move forward some six months, where we nd his friend, the main instigator of the ‘cast’ incident, somewhat attentively looking forward to his own betrothal!
As the date became closer, he naturally became increasingly nervous, racked with trepidation as to what form of devious revenge his former ‘victim’ was almost certainly concocting.
In fact, by the time he had arrived at his own stag night, he was practically a mental basket case - and still nothing untoward had occurred. To his amazement - and extreme relief - the stag night also brought no unpleasant surprises and he duly retired, more than a touch relieved, that his friend appeared to be seeking no retribution for his somewhat ill-conceived party joke of yore.
His subsequent marriage day also passed without incident, but it was not until he and his new bride actually relaxed on the plane bearing them to Mauritius, that he truly felt he was in the clear. He decided to put all his fears behind him and enjoy his honeymoon to the full; albeit perhaps remaining a little wary of anything they may be planning on his return.
Arriving at their luxurious hotel, they were duly shown to the honeymoon suite and proceeded to enjoy the beginning of their special holiday. That night
the newlyweds retired early. Sharing together all the dreams and intimate exchanges of the recently betrothed, they nally drifted o into happy contented slumber.
The next morning, they awoke bright and early. After giving his bride a very special ‘wake up call’, the new groom decided to ask for breakfast to be served in the room. Reaching for the phone he dialled room service. ”’Hello,” he enquired pleasantly, “Could you please send us up breakfast and a pot of tea for two?” He then froze. “You’d better make that three,” came a barely disguised triumphant voice from under the bed! Yep. You’ve guessed it. Beneath the marital bed is where his ‘pre - plastered’ friend had spent the whole of the previous night. All their most intimate thoughts and moments of passion had been shared with his unforgiving, but now euphoric, stag party victim! Doesn’t that just warm the very cockles? Sweet and utterly satisfying revenge.
Back to normal next week. Keep the faith, Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
Village for sale
And it costs less than many family homes.
AN entire Spanish village has gone on the market for €850,000, o ering one lucky buyer the chance to own not just a home, but a collection of houses, a chapel, a former village shop and acres of countryside.
The unusual listing is in the province of Ourense, Galicia, in northwest Spain. Set among rolling green hills, the small rural hamlet includes 11 houses spread across around 40,000 square metres of land.
Only three of the homes are currently ready to move into, while the rest would need renovation. Altogether, the properties provide more than 40 bedrooms and over 20 bathrooms, making it one of the most unusual real estate listings available in Spain.
The sale also includes several buildings that once formed the heart of village life, including a traditional chapel, a former medical clinic, a village shop and two warehouses. Although €850,000 may sound like a huge sum, it is less than the cost of many family homes in some parts of the UK, making the price a surprise given the scale of the property. The listing highlights the challenges facing many rural communities across Spain. Urban migration has depopulated many towns, creating buyer opportunities for village restoration, tourism, and housing.
TOPTrending
I Will Find You
THREE things in life are certain: taxes, death and Netflix releasing a new Harlan Coben limited series. At this point, Coben adaptations are a genre of their own and I Will Find You is definitely one of its strongest staples. The eight-part series follows a man, imprisoned for the murder of his son. Except, when the boy is revealed to be alive, audiences are thrust into a thrilling conspiracy which makes for a compulsive, addictive watch.
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe
THE BIG BANG THEORY has spawned a number of spin-offs, but none as strange as Stuart Fails to Save the Universe which pivots the franchise from over-played sitcoms to an out of this word apocalyptic multiverse. Barely a side character in the original series, comic book shop owner Stuart is now the star of his own show (streaming weekly on HBO Max) and must do everything in his admittedly limited power to avert armageddon.
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Costa Blanca North
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol Jackpot dream
A REGULAR lottery player in Fuengirola turned a night-time dream into a life-changing reality after scooping a €1,000,000 jackpot from an ONCE scratch card.
The dramatic win unfolded when the local resident approached vendor Jose Manuel Campos, known affectionately as ‘Josele’, in Plaza de la Hispanidad. The customer shared that he had just dreamed about winning a seven-figure fortune. Trusting his premonition, he purchased a ‘Mega Millonario’ scratch card.
Scraping off the coating right on the street, the player revealed the top €1 million prize. Overcome with emotion, the winner tearfully hugged Josele.
The vendor expressed his own disbelief, describing the rare moment of handing over a life-changing ticket as the best part of his job.
Axarquia
Tradition in the hills
IZNATE is preparing for its 26th Dia de la Uva Moscatel on Saturday, August 8, offering visitors a free taste of the region’s famous grapes and wine. From 7pm, street stalls will serve traditional dishes prepared by locals, including ajoblanco, gazpacho, potato omelettes, cured meats, and sweets. A craft market opens at 8pm alongside live music.
More than 2,000 families across the Axarquia area still cultivate Moscatel vines, a crop grown locally since at least the late 16th century. In 2018, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation recognised these traditional growing and drying methods as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System - the first such award in Europe.
The festival marks the official start of the harvest and represents the highlight of Iznate’s summer cultural programme.
Holding Provincial Tourist Interest status for over two decades, the celebration provides an authentic taste of village life away from coastal crowds.
Mallorca
Friends on board
FOR over 20 years, Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox have proved their friendship extends beyond television. The Hollywood stars have reunited once again in Mallorca, joining actor Pedro Pascal aboard a luxury superyacht.
Photographs published this week show the group enjoying a day at sea. Aniston was seen sunbathing in a black bikini top and coral-pink bottoms before taking to the water on a pedal kayak, while Cox went snorkelling. Also on board was Aniston’s boyfriend, wellness coach and author Jim Curtis.
Famous for playing Rachel Green and Monica Geller on the hit sitcom Friends, Aniston and Cox have remained close since the series ended in 2004. Pascal, one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actors, joined them on the trip. This is not Aniston’s first visit to Mallorca, having returned several times over the years for its secluded coves and privacy.
Costa
Blanca
South Racing legends
MORE than 1,000 runners took to the streets of Novelda for the 38th Ascent to the Sanctuary of Saint Mary Magdalene, marking its largest event ever. As one of the longest-running races in Alicante province, the event welcomed former world champions Abel Antón and Martín Fiz, alongside Olympic gold medallist Fermín Cacho.
Although Cacho was unable to compete due to injury, the three athletics legends met participants and spoke about the importance of determination, perseverance, and hard work.
Held on August 1, the race brought together athletes, families, volunteers, and local residents, reinforcing its reputation as a major Costa Blanca community occasion. In the race itself, Bouchrak El Houcine claimed overall victory, while Cristina Juan was the first female runner across the finish line. Nearly four decades after its inception, the tradition continues to unite generations of runners and supporters.
Almeria
Let the games begin
THE Almanzora Valley came alive with colour and friendly competition recently when Purchena hosted its traditional Aben Humeya Moorish Games. Every year, the event blends history with sport, bringing together local residents and visitors to showcase the town’s heritage and legacy.
As an event of National Interest in Andalucia, all eyes were on Purchena. Celebrating its 23rd edition, the annual event recreated the revelry of the 16th century. The town was decorated in colorful bunting and mediaeval banners, while attendees wore authentic Moorish and Christian inspired costumes. An artisanal food market, music, parades, and historical re-enactments added to the atmosphere.
The highlight was the traditional competitions held each evening, starting with Moorish Wrestling in Purchena Square, set on a stage of sand ringed by hay bales. Other medieval contests included archery, weight-lifting, stone throwing, chess, singing, and dancing. Each night of the three-day event ended with Arabic dance and live music into the early hours.
Costa Blanca North Fireworks and fun
GANDIA’S beachfront came alive as hundreds of residents and visitors gathered for La Festa a la Mar, a celebration marking the arrival of August with an evening of music, culture and spectacular entertainment.
The popular event transformed the city’s seafront into a lively festival space, showcasing the traditions and atmosphere that make Gandia one of the Costa Blanca’s favourite summer destinations. Festivities began with a colourful fallas parade, before visitors explored the Gandia City of Festivals exhibition.
One of the evening’s biggest attractions was a dramatic night-time mascletà, filling the sky with fireworks and thunderous pyrotechnics. The celebrations continued with live performances by Luis el Belga feat. Walectric, followed by a DJ set from Pascal Renolt.
Mayor José Manuel Prieto joined councillors Balbina Sendra and Adrián Vila on the seafront as they welcomed locals and holidaymakers.
Why does Milo love his HouseSitMatch cat-sitters?
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Milo relaxing while keeping guard of his cat-sitter’s cup of tea.
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Summer coat care
A HEALTHY coat does far more than make your pet look their best. During summer, it helps regulate body temperature, protects the skin from the sun and keeps your cat or dog comfortable, even on warmer days.
Regular brushing is one of the easiest ways to support your pet’s coat. It removes loose fur, prevents tangles and allows air to circulate more freely through the coat. Long-haired breeds often need brushing several times a week, while short-haired pets usually benefit from a weekly groom.
It can be tempting to shave a thick coat when temperatures rise, but this isn’t always the best solution. A pet’s coat acts as natural insulation, helping to keep them cool as well as protecting their skin from harmful UV rays. Unless your vet or a professional groomer recommends otherwise, it’s usually better to keep the coat well maintained rather than clipping it very short.
Keeps your cat or dog comfortable all summer long.
Bathing can also help during the summer, but avoid overdoing it. Washing too frequently may strip away the natural oils that keep the skin and coat healthy. Finally, keep an eye out for
Confident canine
BRINGING a rescue dog into your home is an exciting experience, but it’s important to remember that confidence takes time to grow. Many rescue dogs have experienced uncertainty or change, so patience and understanding are essential during the settling-in period.
Start by creating a calm, predictable routine. Regular mealtimes, walks and quiet rest periods help your dog feel safe because they know what to expect each day. Give them a comfortable space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed, and never force interactions with people or other animals.
Positive reinforcement is one of the best ways to build confidence. Reward calm behaviour, curiosity and small achievements
with praise, treats or a favourite toy. Celebrate progress, no matter how small. A dog that takes a few steps towards a new experience today may happily embrace it tomorrow.
Introduce new sights, sounds and environments gradually. Short, enjoyable outings are far more beneficial than overwhelming adventures. Allow your dog to explore at their own pace, offering reassurance without fussing.
Most importantly, build a bond based on trust. Gentle handling, consistency and kindness will help your rescue dog realise they are finally home. With time, love and encouragement, even the shyest dog can blossom into a happy, confident companion.
fleas, ticks and signs of skin irritation, as these are more common during the warmer months. With a little extra grooming and care, your pet can stay comfortable, healthy and ready to enjoy the summer.
Love and care will bring back your rescue pups’ confidence.
Lamia Walker, Founder.
CHARITY
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
MOTORS FOR SALE
(MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR
Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779
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WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)
MOTORING
Geely EX5 – another stand out Chinese automotive offering
By Mark Slack ROAD
TEST
MY test car diary seems filled with Chinese car brands at the moment and this week is no exception. Geely is arguably one of the big three Chinese brands and its expertise shows in the EX5. The car is very targeted for those wanting efficiency, comfort and lots of equipment at very affordable, by today’s stan dards, prices.
The EX5 comes in three trim levels –SE, Pro and Max – with prices starting at €37,493/£31,990 and the entry level model specification is one of the most impressive I have seen given the price of the car. Keyless entry and start, wireless charging, wireless car play, heated front seats and steering wheel, auto lights with high beam assist, auto wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror, adaptive cruise control, folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors, navigation, faux leather upholstery, air conditioning, 360-degree surround camera and privacy glass. Phew!
Facts at a Glance
• Model: Geely EX5 Max
• Engine: Single electric motor, 62kwh battery with total 218PS
• Gears: Automatic
• Price: €43,352/£36,990
• Performance: 0 – 100kph/62mph
7.1 seconds/Max speed 175kph/109 mph
• Range: 408km/254 miles
• Emissions: 0 g/km
Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets
Developing 218PS the benchmark
100kph/62 mph is passed in a whisker under 7 seconds – the highest trim level it’s a whisker over 7 seconds – and there’s a stated range of 402-434km/250-270 miles depending on driving conditions. In reality you’re probably looking at circa 321-354km/200-220 miles for most drivers. If you have a home charger and mainly drive no more than, say, 160km/100 miles each way then this is actually fine for your daily motoring requirements. Any longer journeys, although there are more public charging points, planning is still the key.
On the road the handling is fine but the Geely’s ability to soak up the bumps on our awful UK roads is excellent. Extremely comfortable seats and impressive amounts of space along with a build quality that would put many more expensive choices to shame are hallmarks of the interior.
As with every Chinese brand I’ve driven the driver assistance (annoyance) features are far too interventionist. Another irksome feature, to all modern cars irrespective of origin, is the lack of physical
buttons. The gear shift lever being on the steering column might seem odd but familiarity soon waves away any worries on that score. A high centre console hides the USB ports underneath it which can be a bit fiddly for access, but that apart the interior is a very nice place. If you’re not one who needs an exciting car to get your motoring pulse racing, but want practicality, comfort, lots of toys, economy of running costs and the lack of worry a new car brings then you’d be hard pressed to beat the EX5.
