Costa de Almeria 24 – 30 April 2025 Issue 2077

Record Easter

Full hotels, festivities, and sunshine

MOJACAR welcomed one of its busiest Easter weeks in years, confirming its place as a top destination on the Mediterranean. Hotels across the town reported occupancy rates of 90 per cent to 100 per cent on Holy Thursday and Good Friday, with most maintaining strong bookings throughout the week.

A mix of tradition, culture, warm spring weather, and quality tourism once again attracted visitors from across the region and beyond. While many hotels were full, some newer establishments and tourist apartments managed to accommodate last-minute travellers.

The town’s Easter programme, set in the heart of the historic centre, featured a range of cultural and religious events. The Holy Thursday and Good Friday processions, which began at Santa María Church and passed through Mojacar’s most iconic streets, were the emotional highlights of the week.

With temperatures reaching 22 to 25 degrees and no rain, visitors were able to enjoy both the festivities and time outdoors on the beach or around town.

To support the increa-

sed footfall, the local council boosted public transport between Mojacar Pueblo and Mojacar Playa. Mayor Francisco García and Tourism councillor María Gracia Alar-

cón praised the strong collaboration behind this success. Mojacar continues to grow as a yearround destination, offering much more than just sun and sea.

Local giving

COLIN THE CARD gift shop has donated €192 to Kitty’s Claws Charity Support following its Easter draw. The money will help fund Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programmes and provide food for local cat colonies. The charity supports stray and feral cats through humane population control and regular feeding. Staff at Kitty’s Claws thanked the shop and its customers for their support. Donations can also be made directly to the charity to help continue its work.

Costa de Almeria • No. 2077 • 24 - 30 April 2025

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ

ILMAINEN

The warm temperatures meant visitors could enjoy the beach as well as the town.

Rescue ready

AA DOG RESCUE has announced a busy line-up of events this May, all aimed at raising funds and helping more rescue dogs find permanent homes in Spain.

The group reports a steady rise in local adoptions, a positive sign for the many animals in their care. “Seeing more dogs go to forever homes here in Spain is a won derful step forward,” a spokesperson said.

A picture-perfect Mother’s Day

On Thursday May 8, AA Dog Rescue will host a VE Day celebration at La Vida in Cucador from 2.00pm. The event will feature traditional decorations and a sing-along led by Nikki Stevens of the pop group Brotherhood of Man.

The Annual Dog Show

Kicking things off on May 5 is the opening of a new charity shop in Huercal-Overa. The launch is supported by patrons Sharon and Stephen Garner, stars of Channel 4’s Sun, Sea & Selling Houses, and owners of Spanish Pro perty Choice. The shop, located next to SPC, will offer a mix of se cond-hand and new items. Doors open at 11.00am and visitors are invited to enjoy refreshments on arrival.

11 at Arboleas Community Centre from 11.00am. With 10 fun dog classes and stalls filled with handmade crafts, the day promises something for everyone.

Celebrity judges include Sharon and Stephen Garner and Nikki Stevens. Don’t miss all the fun this May!

SPANISH Mother’s Day is just around the corner and Mojacar’s shops are giving their customers the chance to capture a picture-perfect family moment.

Shops at the commercial park in Mojacar are part of a Mother’s Day raffle with a prize that includes a two-hour-long photo shoot with loved ones, a digital album to commemorate the experience and a USB containing the photos of the shoot.

The town hall’s Department of Commerce is working in association with multiple shops at the commercial park to bring locals, family moments they can treasure this Mother’s Day.

Some of the shops involved include: Sandri

More information can be found on the shops taking part in the raffle, on the town hall’s Instagram and Facebook page.

To be in with a chance to win a fantastic and unique family experience, spend €10 supporting local shops until Sunday May 4. Fill in your raffle sheet, attach the receipt from the shop and drop it in the raffle box at participating stores.

Spanish Mother’s Day will be celebrated on May 4 in 2025 and is traditionally celebrated by giving handcrafted gifts to those you love. This prize gives families the chance to craft a beautiful memory whilst supporting local busi-

ne Marie Moda, Vespa Mujer and Ambiente Decoracion.

Community steps up again.

Give handcrafted gifts to those you love.

Image: Shutterstock/ Kulkova Daria

Photo Credit:

Driving licence shock

Stricter tests for older drivers

SPAIN’S traffic authorities announced a major change in 2024 - from 2025, every driver renewing their licence will face tougher medical tests at the wheel. The decision has sparked criticism from some drivers, who describe the move as ageist bureaucracy. But is it really about safety, or an attempt to discourage older drivers from staying on the road?

If you’re over 65 and still enjoy the freedom of the open road, you’re not being pushed out of the driver’s seat - but it does mean meeting new require ments to stay there.

There’s no legal age limit to driving in Spain. But once you hit 65, your licence must be renewed more frequently - and the tests aren’t getting any ea sier.

Drivers over 65 are preparing for what many see as the most significant change in decades, brought on by the introduction of a new medical test that’s already catching out thousands.

Now, older drivers must also pass cognitive and reflex tests, including memory challenges, attention assessments and simulated reaction scenarios. It’s part of a push to bring Spanish standards in line with tougher EU norms.

According to estimates, 15 per cent of drivers over 65 may not pass the test on their first try.

The DGT has announced free refresher courses for over-65s to help prepare for the tests.

So, is this the end of the road for elderly drivers? Not quite - but there’s no denying the bar has been raised.

Change to delivery date

PLEASE note that due to the upcoming May 1st holiday, your copy of the Euro

News will be distributed on Wednesday April 30 rather than the normal Thursday distribution.

Cheap holidays

IF you’re retired, living in Spain, and love a good deal, the IMSERSO holiday scheme could be your ticket to sun, sea, and savings.

Run by the Spanish government, IMSERSO offers subsidised holidays to pensioners, with hotel stays, meals, and transport included for as little as €115 to €405. It’s more than a break – it’s a chance to meet people, enjoy cultural trips, and dance the night away.

To get in, you’ll need to build up points. The 2025/26 season is coming, and here’s how to qualify:

Age: The older you are, the more points you get – up to 20 at age 78+.

Disability: A 33 per cent disability rating earns you 10 extra points.

Income: The lower your monthly income, the higher your score. For example, under €517.90 = 50 points; over €2,100 = 0.

Past travel: If you’ve missed out recently, you could get up to 175 points.

Family: Large family? That’s worth up to 10 bonus points. In a tie, age wins.

To apply, you must be a legal resident of Spain, receiving a Spanish state pension or affiliated with Spanish Social Security. Expats meeting these criteria may be eligible; private pensioners usually are not.

Check your points, and if you qualify, you could be swapping your sofa for a sun lounger next spring.

Visit imserso.gob.es for full details.

Weak PIN warning Account freezes

STILL using 1234 as your bank card PIN?

You’re not the only one - and that’s exactly why it’s so risky. Spanish authorities are warning of a surge in card fraud, with weak, predictable PINs making it easy for scammers to drain accounts. Despite the rise of digital wallets and contactless payments, millions still rely on chip-and-PIN

cards. That means criminals only need your card - and a guessable code - to access your cash. According to data analyst Nick Berry, the most common PINs globally include 1234, 0000, 1111, 1212 and 6969. Easy to remember, yes - but also easy to crack. Experts say to avoid anything that follows a pattern or links to your personal life, like birthdays or addresses. Safer options are random combinations like 7063, 7394 or 8957. And never use the same PIN across multiple cards. If you

struggle to remember random numbers, use a password manager - or pick something meaningful only to you.

Even a strong PIN won’t help if you’re careless at the cashpoint. Always cover the keypad, watch for tampered card slots, and stay alert to anyone lingering nearby. Banks also recommend activating SMS alerts for card activity and setting daily withdrawal limits to reduce risk. A few seconds spent choosing a better PIN could save you from losing thousands - and a major headache.

RUMOURS are swirling online about banks in Spain suddenly freezing or closing customer accounts. While it’s true that some accounts are being blocked, the Bank of Spain confirms there is no widespread shutdown taking place. Still, account freezes can happen - and they’re often the result of increased security checks.

Banks are required to follow strict regulations designed to prevent tax fraud and money laundering. That means keeping customer records updated. If your bank requests documents like ID or proof of address and you don’t respond, your account might be temporarily frozen.

Transfers over €3,000 or involving €500 notes are also flagged automatically and reported to tax authorities. If anything looks suspicious, banks can pause access until the issue is resolved.

Joint accounts can be affected too. In cases of divorce, disputes, or inheritance, banks may freeze funds until all parties agree or a court intervenes.

The good news? Most account blocks are reversible. If it’s a paperwork issue, sending the required documents is usually enough to unlock the account.

Importantly, banks are not allowed to freeze your account without notice. They must inform you, explain the reason, and give you a chance to respond. So if you get a request from your bank, don’t ignore it - it could help you avoid unnecessary stress.

End of the road for older drivers? New medical test has over-65s fearing the worst.

Credit: Shutterstock, Savanevich Viktar

FOLLOWING a sold-out run in Turre last November, the Indalo Players are back with another chance to see their popular production of Over the River and Through the Woods, this time at the Teatro Municipal in Zurgena.

Presented in the style of a classic radio play, the show features no sets or costumes, just voices, live sound effects, and plenty of imagination. This humorous and heartfelt play by Joe DiPietro follows the story of four loving grandparents trying to stop their grandson from moving away. Audiences can expect laughter and love in this touching story about family bonds.

Performances run from Friday, May 2, to Sunday, May 4. The Friday and Sunday shows are matinees at 4.00pm, while Saturday’s performance starts at 7.00pm. Doors open one hour before each show.

Tickets are €10 and can be purchased from Albox Radio Studio, Total Entertainment in Albox and Arboleas, or MACS in Huercal-Overa. Email bookings are also available at tony.saxby@icloud.com . With only 100 seats per show, early booking is advised.

RECENTLY, Albox hosted the Educational Chess Promotion Circuit, welcoming 200 children aged five to 16 from various clubs across the province. This event marked the first stop of the school-aged chess competition, organised by the Sports Department of the Almeria Provincial Council. The second round took

Proceeds will support local charities, continuing the Indalo Players’ commitment to giving back to the community while sharing quality entertainment.

Hit show Chess Circuit

place in El Ejido, with the final event scheduled for May 10 in Huercal-Overa. The young chess players

faced off at the ‘Las Ventas’ Sports Pavilion in Albox, where more than 100 chess boards were set up. The event, part of the Provincial Sports Games, lasted about two hours and included a breakfast for everyone involved.

Albox has long been connected to the game of chess, with the town hosting the annual ‘Vicente Bonil’ Rapid Chess Tournament. Last November, José Carlos Ibarra Jerez, the master from Totana, claimed victory for the third consecutive year. The tournament, which celebrated its 46th year, attracts top international and national players, along with local fans.

Albox’s continued dedication to promoting chess is evident in the growing number of participants and the town’s strong reputation within the chess community.

A nostalgic radio play.

Promoting chess.

The Pope remembered

AS Spain announced that the country would observe three days of mourning for the loss of Pope Francis, he was remembered respectfully by Church leaders and town halls in the area.

In a statement on social media Mojacar Town Hall expressed sentiments that mirrored those mourning the loss, globally, of a religious leader who, to many, symbolised compassion and faith. They said they conveyed their deepest condolences and called the Pope ‘a universal figure of peace, humility and dedication to others’.

During his years as Pontificate, Pope Francis, didn’t visit Spain; however, Catholic Bishop, Go-

mez Cantero, based at the Diocese of Almeria, has acted throughout Pope Francis’ leadership as a conduit for local people and the Vatican. In one case, taking Almerian schoolchildren to meet the Pope.

Bishop Cantero said that Pope Francis had called people “to the joy of faith... He invited us to open our arms to everyone... He was a courageous and evangelical shepherd, leaning on the staff of mercy. His journey as Peter’s successor has been an essential step towards listening and dialogue, making our Church a home with open doors.”

Sustainable planting

FOR the green-fingered bargain hunters amongst our readers, growing sustainably this spring is easier than ever.

Sustainable is the new buzzword, and Almeria’s gardens and terraces filled with pots are the perfect place to start a new gardening trend, because for small amounts of money, sustainable planting can provide a maintainable food source for families.

Spring has officially sprung here in Spain, and for a short window, you can establish homegrown food for the months to come for less money. Garden centres and animal food supply shops, known as ‘piensos’, in Spain start to fill shelves with trays of plantlets.

For often, as little as a euro, customers can get between three and 10 seedlings of food-giving plants. Growing fruits and vegetables in pots

One option for the savvy gardener would be to grow plants like tomatoes and peppers in pots to cut the monthly shopping bill.

A small step in the direction of sustainability, that benefits the garden, the environment and the stomach.

or raised beds, is an easy way to join a movement that is helping to promote a better environment and delicious homegrown food. Homegrown vegetables might be an important addition to gardens, as according to Eurostat data and the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) prices across Spain for both vegetables and fruit have been rising each month since January 2025.

Plantlets are now beginning to fill the shelves.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock Jacob Lund

Photo Credit: Diocese of Almeria, Vatican Media

Bishop of Almeria met with the Pope.

Duke’s rescue

THANK you to everyone who came along to our ‘Paws on the Paseo’ walk and for being so kind with your donations, €537.95 was raised. Thank you to Sharon, Steve and Emma of Spanish Property Choice for opening the event, walking two of our beautiful pooches and for their generous and unexpected donation. Also to De Tap Room for keeping us supplied with drinks and tapas.

We thought we should give special thanks to our beautiful boy, Duke who, after being found in such terrible conditions in January, was a true star at the event and captured everyone’s hearts...

Duke was rst seen roaming in Garrucha by a lovely couple and supporters of PAWS-PATAS, Sandy and Lawrence, but he ran o . Lawrence returned the next day and found Duke, this time unable to move, so Lawrence carried him home, Sandy

cooked burgers for Duke and phoned Lynne, Manager of our shops, who asked them to take him to our vet. Surprisingly (not!), no microchip, so the manager of our dog shelter, Vanessa, arrived to take him in to our care.

Still too weak to walk, Duke was carried to his kennel, immediately treated for his tick infestation and made comfortable with food, a soft bed, heat lamp and cosy jacket. He was literally skin and bone, weighing only 18kg despite being a large galgo. Shortly afterwards, his blood and urine tests showed him to be su ering from pancreatitis and severe dehydration. It’s at this stage that another of our dedicated volunteers, Sue, was so worried about him that she took him home. Duke’s story isn’t over – look out for next week’s instalment...

New Adventure Park

LAUJAR DE ANDARAX has just opened a brandnew adventure park, o ering a fun and exciting new attraction for everyone. Located in the ‘El Nacimiento’ Recreational Area, the new park features over 20 activities, including a climbing wall and zip line, making it a great addition to the area’s growing list of attractions.

The park was o cially opened by Almeria’s Provincial President, Javier A García, and the town’s ma-

yor, Almudena Morales. The event was blessed by local priest Manuel Piedra. García spoke about the park’s prime location, saying, “Not only does it o er great facilities, but it’s also near some of the province’s most popular hiking routes.”

The park is designed for families and includes safety measures for all visitors. It adds to the existing attractions in ‘El Nacimiento’, such as barbecues, electric

bikes, scooters, and hiking trails. Mayor Morales emphasised that the park helps attract visitors year-round, allowing them to enjoy the area’s natural beauty in every season. This project was made possible through the collaboration between the Diputación de Almeria and the Laujar de Andarax Town Hall, aiming to boost active tourism and improve the quality of life for local residents.

Adventure awaits in Almeria.

Heart safety boost

ALBOX Town Council has taken a decisive step towards reducing deaths caused by cardiac arrest among its residents.

To this end, it has acquired four defibrillators, which have now been installed in the town’s two sports halls, the Water and Health Centre, and one in a Local Police patrol car. These locations were chosen because they’re regularly visited by many locals - or, in the case of the police car, to ensure officers are prepared to respond quickly in an emergency.

A group of council employees has already completed training in basic life support, first aid, and how to use the defibrillators so they can step in if a cardiac arrest occurs. The plan now is to extend this training to members of the public, so more people in the community

are equipped to help in these situations.

“In a cardiac emergency, acting quickly is absolutely vital. Having a defibrillator nearby can be the difference between life and death. It’s so important for Albox to be a heart-safe town,” said Mayor María del Mar Alfonso, who attended the staff training session. Every minute that passes after a cardiac arrest cuts the patient’s chance of survival by 10 per cent.

This, according to Dr Ignacio Fernández Lozano, a cardiologist at Madrid’s Puerta de Hierro Hospital, who also highlights how far behind Spain is in terms of first aid training. Every year, there are around 30,000 cardiac arrests in Spain - of which barely 10 per cent survive.

A nightmare development

THE GUARDIA CIVIL’S ‘Operation Microcement’ has found grounds for investigating an individual who has allegedly illegally constructed dwellings in the Aguilas area.

In the case highlighted by the police operation, two dwellings were erected on common land, which was legally meant to be kept undeveloped. The investigation aims to prove that the homes have been built without planning permission and are in contradiction to the municipal plan. What might be a hefty fine for them does not have to be for others, follow simple steps to build a dream home, not a financial nightmare. Seek out the right advice: pick an estate agent from the area who has experience in buying and selling property locally.

Hire an independent

lawyer with experience in Spanish Property Law. Do research, apply for a Nota Simple from the Spanish Property Registry, which gives information about the property, including whether there is a legal order for demolition on the land. Municipal Plans and the rules for urbanising land are often available online from town halls.

Potential buyers can also set up a meeting at the town hall, where there is usually a member of the council who can clarify land ownership, land type and details of the urban plan for each zone. And, even if it means waiting to start building that dream home, get planning permission to avoid costly mistakes.

The mayor of Albox alongside the emergency team.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Albox

Homes built without planning permission.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Busy season

ALMERIA had a very successful Easter, with thousands of visitors choosing it as their holiday destination. Many hotels and holiday rentals were fully booked, especially in popular towns like Mojacar and Vera. On average, hotel occupancy across the province was 68 per cent, but places like Mojacar, Roquetas de Mar, and El Ejido reached around 90 per cent, and some rural areas saw over 80 per cent.

The deputy for Tourism, Fernando Giménez, said these results show how strong the ‘Costa de Almeria’ brand is. He thanked everyone in the tourism industry for their hard work and thanked visitors for choosing Almeria. He also said they are working to attract visitors all year round, not just in summer, by providing a wide range of experiences.

Tourism in the countryside is also growing. More people are looking for peaceful places surrounded by nature, away from the beach crowds. Almeria’s good

weather, beautiful scenery, local food, and friendly people make it a popular place to visit.

Easter religious events also brought big crowds to the streets. Many people came out to watch traditional processions in the capital and in towns like Huercal-Overa, Vera, Berja, Roquetas, and Adra.

These long-standing traditions remain an important part of the local culture.

TEAMA fundraiser

TEAMA Asociación Autismo Mojacar is organising its first big charity gala on Saturday, April 26, at 7.00pm. The event will take place at Cortijo Media Legua in Vera and aims to raise money to help people with autism take part in art, culture, and community life.

TEAMA is a local group that started in Mojacar. It works to support inclusion and

raise awareness about autism. This special evening will bring together music, food, and live art, all with a clear goal: to make a difference. There will be live music and opera, a gourmet dinner for all guests, and a live sculpture being made during the event. Spanish singer Manu Tenorio will also be performing as a special guest.

Greener future for El Ejido

EL EJIDO moves towards a greener, smarter, and climate-ready future.

This town has taken a big step towards sustainability, e ciency, and climate resilience. The local council has unanimously approved the contract tender for electricity supply and energy services, including the installation and operation of several solar power plants on municipal properties.

This initiative not only shows a strong commitment to renewable energy but is also expected to bring signicant savings to the town’s budget.

As part of the approved plan, a local energy community will be created exclusively for municipal use. This means the council will be able to take advantage of legislation that allows energy sharing within a 2,000-metre radius between generation and consumption points.

The aim is to meet as much of the town’s energy needs as possible through clean, local energy sources.

The project comes at no initial cost to the council. Instead, the selected contractor will invest in the installation,

handle the entire project, and take care of maintenance over the 15-year contract period.

Under the deal, the agreed price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of generated electricity is €0.082 – signi cantly lower than the current average market price of around €0.113 per kWh. It’s estimated that the new system will cover between 70 per cent and 95 per cent of the council’s daytime energy use. At the end of the 15 years, full ownership of the facilities will be handed over to the council at no extra cost.

The evening promises to be full of emotion and entertainment. All money raised will go towards TEAMA’s work supporting people with autism. Tickets can be bought on the association’s website: www.tea mamojacar.org . Everyone is welcome to join in and enjoy this meaningful night that combines entertainment with a great cause.

Almeria top choice this Easter.

Image: Shutterstock/ Unai Huizi Photography

The facilities will be handed over to the council at no extra cost.

Together for autism support.

Image: teamamojacar.org

Beach complex

A NEW beach sports complex is on the horizon for El Toyo in Almeria, with a €1 million investment set to transform a currently underused space into a key location for outdoor activity and tourism.

The project, which will be built next to the city’s conference centre and municipal sports complex, includes purpose-built courts for beach football, volleyball, handball, tennis, and rugby. Spectator stands with shaded areas, outdoor

showers, lockers, a snack kiosk, rest zones, and a solarium are also part of the plan.

The new facilities will allow for both national and international competitions, as well as local matches, training, and school activities. The site will cover more than 13,500 square metres and is designed with sustainability in mind, including the environmental restoration of a nearby neglected plot currently used as informal parking.

Funded by European

Next Generation funds through Almeria’s Sustainable Tourism Plan, the complex aims to boost active tourism and address seasonal dips in visitor numbers.

City officials say the development responds to growing interest in beach sports and is part of a wider strategy to improve access to recreational facilities, promote healthy lifestyles, and strengthen Almeria’s position as a leading coastal destination for sport and leisure.

MOTORBKE racing is back in Albox this summer. The fourth speed race will take place at the Albox fairground on Saturday, June 14, and Sunday, June 15.

The event is organised by Motos P.Bonillo with help from Albox Town Hall and the Provincial Council of Almeria. Saturday will include free practice sessions and timed runs. On Sunday, the main races will take place.

There will be di erent types of races, including pit bikes, scooters, supermoto, and mini-motos. Trophies and cash prizes will be given to the winners. There will also be special surprises from LS2 Europe, a well-known motorbike gear brand.

Speed race Seaside fun

The weekend promises fast and exciting races for all motorbike fans. Organisers say it will be a great

THIS Sunday, April 27, there are two free activities in Mojacar that everyone can enjoy. From 11.00am to 12.30pm, you can join a relaxing yoga session by the sea at Playa del Descargador. It’s a great chance to unwind and enjoy the fresh air. Just remember to bring your mat.

At the same time, there will be a fun roller-skating session in the car park across from the beach. It’s perfect for fa-

event for both locals and visitors to enjoy.

For more details, check out the Albox Town Hall social media pages.

milies and children. Make sure to bring safety gear and a helmet. Both activities are free and you don’t need to book, just turn up and take part.

The events are organised by the Mojacar Town Hall and Turismo de Mojacar to help people enjoy the outdoors and stay active. Come along, have some fun, and make the most of a sunny day by the sea!

Weekend of motorbike action.

Almería’s beach sports future.

Hiking trip

THE Pulpi Town Hall is o ering a great hiking trip as part of its Municipal Hiking Programme. From May 1 to 4, you can explore the beautiful landscapes of Torre del Campo and Jaen, two areas known for their stunning nature.

The hike will start at 8.00am from the Plaza del Huerto in Pulpi. The cost is €10 for those with a hiking federation membership and €16 for non-members. Meals and accommodation are extra, but the trip promises a chance to escape the everyday routine and enjoy the great outdoors.

Hiking is a fantastic way to stay active and healthy. It helps reduce stress, clears your mind, and improves your overall well-being. Plus, being in nature o ers a peaceful and relaxing experience, perfect for recharging your energy.

With limited spaces available, it’s a good idea to sign up early. For more details or to register, call 617 461 701. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to enjoy nature, get some exercise, and have a great time!

THE Albox Council has recently carried out improvement works in several parks and squares across the municipality, responding to long-standing requests from residents.

Families can now enjoy the upgrades at Parque Beato Juan Ibáñez, where a worn-out sports court has been replaced, a new play area for children has been installed, and safety mea-

Albox transforms

sures such as shock-absorbing ooring and arti cial grass have been added. The council funded these changes using its own budget.

Meanwhile, Parque San Juan Evangelista, built last year, has been tted with a large awning to protect

children from the sun. Additionally, major renovations have been completed at Plaza de Los Dolores, a historic square in La Loma that had been neglected for over a decade. The upgrades include new yellow pavement, improved lighting, better accessibility, and new greenery.

Mayor María del Mar

Alfonso emphasised the council’s commitment to listening to residents: “We want all areas of Albox to be well-maintained. The Plaza de los Dolores is iconic, and now families can enjoy it again.”

The changes re ect the council’s e orts to improve public spaces based on community feedback.

Kitchen stars

MOVE over MasterChef Junior, Almeria has its own budding culinary stars! The Educa Chef competition, a collaboration between Sabores Almeria and La Salle Virgen del Mar School, is turning classrooms into kitchens as students compete to create the tastiest, healthiest dishes using fresh local ingredients.

With nine schools already battling it out in the first round, the competition is heating up. The final, set for April 30, will see young chefs put their skills to the test, crafting traditional Almerían dishes under the watchful eyes of professional chefs from Almeria Gastronómica.

“We want kids to fall in love with cooking while learning why healthy eating

matters,” said Carlos Sánchez, the provincial Agro-Food Promotion Deputy. The rules? Teams must use at least three local ingredients from Sabores Almeria like tomatoes, sweet peppers, or olive oil straight from the groves. But creativity counts too: presentation, originality, and even the story behind each dish will decide the winner.

The idea started years ago at La Salle, where a teacher mixed cooking lessons with nutrition talks.

Now, it’s a full-blown competition.

In the final showdown, teams will have one shot to impress the judges. One thing’s certain, Almeria’s next generation is proving that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring.

Image: Albox Town Hall

Important upgrades in Albox.

Image: Shutterstock/ Guillermo Garcia

Join the hiking adventure.

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Vera is a small town located in the province of Almeria, near the coast. Vera is easily accessible from the main A7 motorway, which takes you to the city of Almeria, a prosperous city with a wide variety of modern facilities.

It is also just a few minutes’ drive from the spectacular beaches of Vera and Garrucha and picturesque villages such as Villaricos and Mojacar. It is 90 km from Almeria airport and 200 km from Alicante airport.

Casa crowds

THE bankrupt home décor chain Casa held total clearance sales at its stores in Ixelles, Waterloo, Ghent and Turnhout - and thanks to the overwhelming response, more such events may be on the horizon. Next week, the remaining warehouse stock is set to go on sale.

With around 60 shops across Belgium, Casa led for bankruptcy at the beginning of March, after facing mounting debts it could no longer repay. On April 14, liquidators kicked o stock clearance sales at the company’s 10 best-performing stores. The total revenue from these sales has not been disclosed.

Casa also declared bankruptcy in the Netherlands in early April, while in France the brand has entered judicial reorganisation proceedings.

Founded in Belgium in 1975, Casa once boasted some 400 stores across eight European countries and employed around 2,500 people. In addition to Belgium and the Netherlands, the brand still has shops operating in France, Luxembourg, Spain and Switzerland.

15 cups of coffee a day!

BJÖRN ULVAEUS is turning 80 this week - and how does the ABBA legend stay so sprightly? Apparently, with a ridiculous amount of coffee.

During the making of ABBA’s comeback album Voyage, Björn met Danish PR executive Christina Sas, 51, - and says it was love at first sight. But not without a few doubts.

“I struggled at first, especially with the age gap,” he admits. “When someone older falls in love with someone younger, you ask yourself: ‘Is this right?’ But in the end, I let it go. I thought - it’s her choice if she wants to be with someone older. And we’re happy.”

Life’s a little different now. He shared how Christina changed his morning routine.

“She’s introduced me to porridge - proper stu-

ff, with blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and granola on top.”

At 79, Björn’s more energetic than most people half his age. The secret? Could be the 15 to 20 cups of coffee he drinks daily. But it probably also has some-

thing to do with a health kick that started all the way back in 1974, just after ABBA won Eurovision with Waterloo.

These days, his routine includes morning kayaking, skipping breakfast (he’s a fan of intermittent fasting), and evening

workouts on the elliptical and vibration plate.

On Friday April 25, he’ll celebrate his 80th birthday in Mallorca with 20 of his closest friends and family. But don’t expect a glitzy dinner with speeches and all that jazz.

Is Big Brother watching the ATM?

Credit: Fuad_Naser_Bondhon, Shutterstock

EVEN seemingly innocent trips to the bank to withdraw your savings could get you into hot waterespecially if you can’t prove why you’re doing it or where the cash originated. But Spain isn’t the only country doing this.

Fancy popping down to the cashpoint with a wad of notes?

Think twice. Spain’s tax authorities are watching - and if they don’t like what they see, you could be slapped with a hefty fine of up to €150,000.

Withdraw or deposit too much cash at an ATM, and Spain’s taxman could hit you with up to €150,000 in fines.

where the money came from - or where it’s going.

Bottom line?

The cash crackdown is clearly filling the coffers. By September 2024, Spain’s taxman had already pocketed a jaw-dropping €200 billion - more than the total haul from all of 2018 and up 8 per cent

on 2023.

The Agencia Tributaria (Spain’s version of HMRC) has stepped up its crackdown on large or suspicious cash transactions, especially those made at ATMs or bank bran-

If you’re withdrawing or depositing large sums of cash in Spain - whether at a cashpoint, in the bank, or through apps like Bizum - you’d better be ready to justify it. Because when it comes to cold, hard cash, Hacienda isn’t taking any chances.

Björn Ulvaeus will celebrate his 80th birthday this week.

Casa also declared bankruptcy in the Netherlands in early April, while in France the brand has entered judicial reorganisation proceedings.

Credit: Casashops

The Statue of the Republic is vandalised with graffiti every week.

Don’t tag Paris

CITY HALL has had enough. With an estimated €6 million in graffiti damage every year, Paris is taking a hard line. The latest crackdown is being led by Ariel Weil, mayor of the central districts on the Right Bank, who is particularly outraged by repeated defacements of Marianne - the female symbol of the Republic and a protected national monument. Weil isn’t the only one losing patience.

François Louis, head of a local citizens’ group that uses the DansMaRue app to report vandalism, says the culprits are well known - a core group of around 50 serial taggers who have been operating unchecked for years.

He adds: “When protesters tagged the Arc de Triomphe, it made national headlines. So why do we let these vandals damage the monument at Place de la République without consequence?”

Official figures show a 51 per cent rise in reported graffiti cases over the past two years. Yet despite repeated promises of tough action, only one successful prosecution has been recorded in three years. In 2022, a man known as ‘Six Sax’ was sentenced to two months in prison and fined €17,000.

The message is loud and clear: the era of looking the other way is over.

Census reveals bear boom in Romania

ROMANIA is home to up to 13,000 brown bears - a figure significantly higher than the previously estimated 8,000, according to a census conducted by the Romanian Forestry Research Institute.

Specifically, there are between 10,419 and 12,770 individuals, marking a notable increase from earlier estimates.

After years of relying on estimates - sometimes controversial - based on visual sightings or indirect methods, this is the first clear picture drawn from DNA samples collected in hunting grounds, natural parks, and national parks.

For the first time, Ro -

ITALIAN authorities have rolled out a plan to revitalise the northern region of Trentino, located on the Austrian-Italian border.

The grant consists of €80,000, aimed at covering renovation costs, and up to €20,000 towards the cost of the purchase of the property. But not everyone can access this generous offer: the grant will only apply to Italian residents or those who hold Italian nationality while living abroad.

A total of 33 towns are included in this deal, in an effort by the Italian government to combat depopulation of its rural regions, as part of a

mania will also have a nationwide digital tool allowing authorities to make fast, well-informed decisions in real time.

However, the study has raised some scepticism among experts, who criticise the data collection methods.

“The samples were collected from 2022 until the end of last year - essentially over a threeyear period, whereas ge -

It pays to buy

wider issue that affects many southern European nations, including Spain, where similar initiatives have been deployed by local authorities. Municipalities under 5,000 inhabitants have been selected for this project, aimed at giving these towns a second life.

There is, however, another catch that potential home-buyers should be aware of.

Grant recipients will be mandated to sign a contract guaranteeing that they will live at the property for 10 years, or at

least maintain the lease for that amount of time.

netic studies are usually carried out over a much shorter timeframe,” according to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

The new figures are based on a genetic census carried out across 25 counties in the Carpathians, using over 24,000 samples of faeces and hair. Previously, bear populations were estimated by tracking their footprints.

Ancuta Fedorca, a representative of the research institute, explained the delay: “It was due to the large number of samples we worked with, the laboratory analysis required, and the available human resources.”

in the shadow of the Dolomites, Trentino boasts breathtaking alpine views, a rich Austro-Italian heritage, and a quiet lifestyle that many urban dwellers dream of.

Located

Romania’s Environment minister presented the results.

Zagori’s grassroots movement

A GRASSROOTS movement is transforming a remote Greek village into a rural community.

High in Greece’s Pindus Mountains, a quiet revolution is underway.

A group of young Greeks has launched an ambitious project to revive Demati –a remote village of just 120 residents – by blending sustainable farming, community living, and hybrid working.

The social cooperative The High Mountains recently posted a callout on social media inviting individuals, couples and families to consider relocating. The post was shared around 230 times in just 15 days.

Demati is located at 1,200 metres above sea level in the Zagori region of northwestern Greece – an area famous for its 46 stone villages, dramatic arched bri-

dges, and sweeping alpine views.

According to Ekathimerini, 78 per cent of Greece’s land is mountainous, but less than 9 per cent of the population lives there.

The group’s first step was transforming Demati’s old school into a co-working hub and headquarters. Ekathimerini notes that this space is open for anyone wishing to work from the village.

How far can they throw eggs?

TO break the record at Germany’s annual Easter Egg Throwing Competition in Horhausen, contestants must launch a boiled egg a whopping 79 metres.

This quirky tradition dates back to the post-Second World War years, but the modern-day event began in 1987. Since then, hundreds of participants - both German and international - turn up each year to test their egg-tossing skills.

But it’s not just about distance. The egg must survive the flight completely intact.

“The egg must travel as far as possible and - here’s the twist - remain unbroken when it lands,” explained Horhausen’s mayor, Tomas Schmidt.

The eggs used in the contest are hard-boiled and brightly painted. After each throw, the distance is measured, and any egg that doesn’t survive the landing is recycled as bird feed.

Germany, like many countries, depends on imported eggs. Per capita egg consumption rose by 10 eggs last year to 249 per person.

Multiplied across the country’s 83 million residents, that’s roughly 20.6 billion eggs a year. Yet German hens only laid about 15.2 billion eggs last year, meaning a quarter of the country’s demand must be met through imports - mostly from the Netherlands.

Even then, Easter eggs were never in short supply.

Three days of mourning

POPE FRANCISCO has died at 88 following a severe respiratory illness, and out of respect, the Spanish government called for three official days of mourning beginning Monday, April 21.

Days of official mourning in Spain mark a time during which the country respects and mourns the death of a person of great importance, such as the Pope. During the last three days, the country’s institutions and authorities have publicly expressed their condolences in symbolic

forms. Flags have been lowered to half-mast on public buildings, and official governmental acts have been suspended or postponed to a later date. Any government-led public celebrations have been cancelled so that the public can pay homage and grieve the loss of Pope Francis.

The Royal Household has issued public statements, as have members of the government and local councils, as well as churches. Television and radio services have adjusted programming to allow

Roman horse site

A MAJOR Roman horse burial site discovered in Stuttgart is offering a rare glimpse into military life - and unexpected emotion - from nearly 2,000 years ago.

More than 100 horse

skeletons were unco vered in the district of Bad Cannstatt, where a Roman cavalry unit once operated in the second century CE.

The dig, launched during groundwork for a new housing project, revealed dozens of shallow graves. Most of the horses appeared to have been buried quickly - typical for military animals. But one carefully arranged skeleton stood out. Its legs were tucked under its body, and nearby were two ceramic jugs and an oil lamp - grave goods usually reserved for humans. “You can still feel the emotion,” said archaeologist Sarah Roth.

for tributes to be voiced. While sports events were cancelled in some countries, especially Italy, major Spanish sporting events were not affected.

The last time a national three days of mourning was declared in Spain was directly following the DANA catastrophe that took so many lives in Valencia, Castilla la Mancha, and in Malaga. Tributes flooded in to the Vatican from world leaders and religious heads of all denominations.

One of over 100 Roman horses unearthed in a mass cavalry burial site in Stuttgart, offering rare insights into Roman military logistics and humananimal bonds.

“Someone clearly cared deeply about this animal.” In a separate part of the site, researchers also found a man’s skeleton - face-down, with no personal belongings. The location and

posture suggest he may have been a social outcast, but nothing’s certain yet. Experts initially thought the area was a ‘Schindanger’ - a medieval animal dump - but the layout and items tell a much richer story. These horses weren’t just transport - they were companions. Researchers are now studying the remains to understand more about Roman horses, including their origin, health and role.

Zagori is a remote village in the Greek mountains.

Credit: Tom D’Arby, Pexels

Flags flew at half mast during days of mourning.

Credit : Stuttgart Regional Council / ArchaeoBW

Fjord protection

BIG changes are coming to Norway’s legendary fjords - and they’re all about keeping these natural wonders as pristine as they look in the postcards. Starting January 1, 2026, only zero-emission passenger ships under 10,000 gross tonnes will be allowed to cruise through the country’s World Heritage fjords.

It’s a bold move by the Norwegian government, aiming to reduce pollution and preserve the breathtaking beauty of these glacier-carved inlets. The new rules were signed off by the Norwegian Maritime Authority, who’ve been working on this plan since 2018 on behalf of the Ministry of Climate and Environment.

But the timeline doesn’t stop in 2026. By 2032, the same zero-emissions rule will apply to larger ships too - those over 10,000 gross tonnes. What makes a fjord a fjord?

By the way - if you’ve ever wondered what exactly a fjord is - it’s a long, narrow sea inlet carved out by glaciers. Picture towering cliffs, deep blue waters and jaw-dropping views. Norway is home to more than 1,100 of them, including several in the Arctic Svalbard islands.

With these new protections, the aim is clear: to keep the fjords just as wild and wonderful as they’ve always been - but without the dirty footprint.

Penguin panic

IN a strange twist earlier this year, a helicopter crash in South Africa was caused by an unexpected passenger; a penguin. ded on Bird Island, off the Eastern Cape coast, to pick up passengers.

One of them, described as a ‘specialist’, placed a live penguin in a car dboard box with plans to transport it from the island.

carried out a risk check before take-off, he didn’t consider the dangers of flying with a loose animal on board.

senger’s lap in the front seat, slipped shortly af ter take-off. It slid across the cockpit and hit the helicopter’s control lever, causing the aircraft to roll and crash onto its

secure, flight-safe container. Without it, the animal was able to move during flight and create a

The crash caused serious damage to the helicopter. An investigation found that the penguin should have been in a

While the situation sounds funny, authorities stressed the importance of following safety rules, no matter how unusual the cargo.

National King’s Day

KING’S DAY (Koningsdag) is a national holiday in the Netherlands, celebrated with lively outdoor festivities to mark the birthday of King Willem-Alexander in April. The biggest and most popular celebrations take place in Amsterdam, where more than a million people gather to join in the fun.

The holiday was known as Queen’s Day (Konninginnedag) from 1885 when the Netherlands had only female monarchs. However, after Queen Beatrix abdicated in 2013 and her son Willem-Alexander became King, the holiday was renamed King’s Day.

This year, King’s Day will be on Saturday, April 26, with King’s Night taking place on the evening of Friday, April 25. The day is filled with street carnivals, markets, and boat parades through the canals. People dance, sing, and enjoy music, while portraits of the monarch are displayed. The streets are decorated with Dutch flags and orange, the colour of the royal family.

Many people dress up as the King or wear his insignia, and nearly everyone wears something orange. There’s also plenty of street food and drinks, including beer and orange juice.

Image: City of Amsterdam

Nearly everyone wears something orange.

Your VOICE

Do you still consider Spain a ‘cheap’ country to live in or visit?

ONCE widely regarded as a budget-friendly destination, Spain has long held a reputation for offering sunny weather and a relaxed lifestyle at relatively low costs. From affordable tapas to reasonably priced rents, the country was seen as the perfect place to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. However, recent economic shifts and increased tourism have prompted a re-evaluation of Spain’s status as a ‘cheap’ place to live or visit.

viously it’s much cheaper, it’s all relative.”

Many note the rising prices, such as Carol Souter, who comments, “No way, stuff goes up every month, especially food!”

Stephen Cosgrove shares his perspective, “It’s still relatively cheaper to live here than the UK. It’s most certainly a LOT cheaper than Ireland and massively cheaper than The Netherlands. Of course, it’s not AS cheap as it WAS!” Jan Fleming shares a similar perspective, “No not cheap, but cheaper than others.”

A recent article by Euro Weekly News highlights that relocating to Spain in 2025 involves significant financial planning, with moving expenses for a couple ranging between €15,000 and €36,000.

Monthly living costs also vary by region - average household expenses in Madrid can reach €2,500€3,500, while smaller towns may offer lower costs. These figures suggest that while Spain remains more affordable than some European countries, the overall cost of living has increased.

With these changes in mind, we asked our readers: Do you still consider Spain a ‘cheap’ country to live in or visit?

Mark Cook says, “Depending where you are coming from! Obviously! If you live here on a wage here in Spain it’s expensive, if you are coming from the UK, then ob -

Cherryl N Manuel Calvo-Suarez reflects, “We retired to Spain when my husband was 50. We could never have retired if we had stayed in the UK... Prices have gone up, but they have everywhere.”

Freda Jeanette Maria Casagrande notes, “I am retired and find it really lovely living here. Certainly, cheaper than the UK. Also, warmer.”

In conclusion, while many acknowledge that Spain is no longer as cheap as it once was, it still remains more affordable compared to countries like the UK and Ireland. Prices have risen, especially for food and housing, but the overall cost of living is still considered lower by those coming from more expensive nations.

NEWS Travel

Juzcar - The Blue Village

with Hispavan Campers

JUZCAR is defi nitely one of Spain’s most whimsical villages. Once a traditional whitewashed village, it gained plenty of attention in 2011 when Sony Pictures painted the entire village blue to promote The Smurfs movie - but what was meant to be a temporary change became permanent when locals voted to keep the colour, and the town was offi cially transformed into ‘La Aldea Azul’ - The Blue Village.

Juzcar is a fun stopover on your campervan journey. While the roads leading into the village can be narrow and winding, there is a designated

parking area just outside the village where you can park your campervan safely and explore on foot.

History

It may be known for its bright blue houses and Smurf-themed murals, but Juzcar’s roots go way deeper. The village dates back centuries, and despite its fairy-tale appearance, it’s still full of traditional Andalucian charm with its narrow, cobbled streets and historic church dating back to the 16th century, the Iglesia de Santa Catalina, which remains a peaceful, authentic, and Smurf-free spot amid the playful surroundings.

What to see?

All the buildings are painted vivid shades of blue, which looks striking against the backdrop of green hills surrounding the village. If you walk through the town, you’ll come across hand-painted Smurfs on walls, statues in the plazas, and themed signs to guide your way. For families, there are Smurf-themed playgrounds and even a zipline and adventure park on the outskirts.

Cuisine

Even though you’ll feel like you’re in the Smurf

ITALY FRANCE

Vatican nursery

THIS month the Vatican inaugurated its first nursery, ‘San Francesco e Santa Chiara’, located within the Vatican walls. Designed for children aged three to 36 months, it offers bilingual (Italian and English) care. This initiative aims to support Vatican employees by providing structured early childhood education and care.

Rome’s birthday

ON April 21, Rome celebrated its 2,778th birthday with the annual Natale di Roma festival. The event includes gladiator shows, historical reenactments, live performances, and the traditional ‘tracciato del solco’ ritual symbolising Rome’s founding by Romulus in 753 BC.

PORTUGAL

Guarded reaction

A CHEEKY ad campaign by NOS operator WOO has sparked outrage among prison guards. The ad recreates a 2023 escape from Vale de Judeus prison, showing inmates climbing a ladder while a guard is on his phone. The National Union of Prison Guards called it a disgrace and unethical, threatening an injunction to protect their reputation.

Wine war

THE United States has halted orders for Portuguese wines amid escalating trade tensions. The National Association of Traders and Exporters of Wines and Spirits (ANCEVE) reported that US distributors have ceased placing orders for Portuguese and European wines due to uncertainty over potential tariffs.

NORWAY

Fish future

NORWAY has launched a new plan to make its fish farming industry more sustainable over the next 10 -15 years. The strategy includes rules based on environmental impact, tradable sea lice limits, and removing production caps. It also aims to boost the use of locally made fish feed to 25 per cent by 2034, cutting emissions and imports.

Twitch trouble

A MAN in his 20s from Lillestrøm had his driver’s licence revoked after livestreaming reckless driving on Twitch. The footage showed him swerving into the oncoming lane and turning off his headlights to intimidate a cyclist. Viewers reported the incident, leading to his arrest. Police are investigating the case, including the passenger who filmed.

EURO PRESS

SWEDEN

Moose migration

SWEDEN’S ‘The Great Moose Migration’, livestream, is capti vating millions globally. Laun ched in 2019, the annual 20-day broadcast follows moose swim ming across the Angerman River during their spring migration. This year’s stream began early due to warmer weather, with over 30 remote cameras capturing the tranquil scenes.

DENMARK

AI Brew Crew

ROYAL UNIBREW, Denmark’s second-largest brewer, has introduced five AI-powered virtual colleagues to assist its human staff with routine tasks. The digital assistants help with information gathering, allowing employees to focus on creative and customer-oriented tasks. The initiative has increased engagement, with staff viewing the AIs as valuable team members.

Trump effect

ONLINE news consumption in Denmark has surged by 11 per cent in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. This increase follows the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency in January. According to Danske Medier, daily page views on national news websites have risen significantly during this period.

IRELAND

Mentorship mix-up

A SCHOOL in Dublin has apologised after a list containing names of senior cycle students and subjective comments about their suitability for a mentorship programme was mistakenly shared on Google Classroom. The school acknowledged the breach, and has launched an investigation while offering meetings to affected families.

Activism alert

IRISH students heading to the US for J1 summer trips have been warned about the risks of engaging in activism. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs advised caution, as participating in protests or demonstrations could lead to visa issues or deportation. Students are encouraged to stay informed and follow US laws during their stay.

Prison attacks

FRENCH prisons have recently been targeted by coordinated attacks, including arson, gunfire, and death threats, at over 11 facilities nationwide. Authorities attribute these incidents to organised drug trafficking networks resisting a government crackdown. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin condemned the assaults and announced increased security measures.

Kardashian testimony

KIM KARDASHIAN is scheduled to testify in person at a French trial beginning April 28, concerning the 2016 armed robbery during Paris Fashion Week. Five masked men held her at gunpoint, stealing over $10 million in jewellery, including a $4 million ring from then-husband Kanye West. Twelve suspects face charges.

GERMANY

Housing push

GERMANY’s incoming CDU-SPD coalition plans to tackle the country’s housing shortage, which exceeds 800,000 apartments. In Berlin, this includes proposals to develop Tempelhofer Feld, an area previously protected by referendum, into new residential buildings. The initiative aims to streamline regulations, reduce taxes, and accelerate construction.

Expensive hug

IN May 2023, a man infiltrated German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s motorcade at Frankfurt Airport and hugged him before he boarded a plane. The 50-year-old, under the influence of drugs, has now been fined €4,500 and banned from driving for 2.5 years for endangering road traffic and trespassing.

NETHERLANDS

Record spring

THE Netherlands has set new spring weather records, experiencing exceptionally high sunshine hours and minimal rainfall. In March the country recorded an average of 248 hours of sunshine, significantly surpassing the typical 150 hours. Additionally, only five millimetres of precipitation fell nationwide, marking it as the driest March on record.

New vision

DUTCH designer Duran Lantink has been appointed creative director at Jean Paul Gaultier, marking a new era for the brand. Known for his bold and avant-garde designs, Lantink will revive Gaultier’s ready-towear line, with his debut collection set for Paris Fashion Week in September. Gaultier himself praised Lantink’s innovative spirit.

FINLAND

Two-vote victory

IN Finland’s recent municipal elections, Left Alliance candidate Daniel Zilliacus secured a seat on Kimitoön’s council with just two votes, thanks to the d’Hondt proportional representation system. This system allocates seats based on party vote share, allowing candidates with minimal personal votes to be elected if their party performs well overall.

Deer danger

IN 2024, Finland experienced a seven-year high in wildlife-vehicle collisions, with over 13,000 incidents reported. White-tailed deer and roe deer were the most common animals involved. Autumn months saw a spike in accidents due to increased animal movement during mating and hunting seasons.

BELGIUM

Ant smugglers

TWO Belgian teenagers were arrested in Kenya for attempting to smuggle over 5,000 live queen ants, including a rare species, through the airport. The ants were hidden in modified test tubes and syringes. The two teens pleaded guilty but said they were collecting the ants for fun. The suspects face charges related to wildlife trafficking.

Golden tribute

BELGIUM’s Royal Mint has issued a €12.50 gold coin to commemorate King Philippe’s 65th birthday. This coin is the only gold issue for 2025 and reflects the King’s support for the nation and various social initiatives. Only 2,500 coins are available, each priced around €200, making it a limited-edition collector’s item.

Credit: Shutterstock / Petr Salinger Moose are on the move.

Lost oddities

FEW things dampen the joy of arriving on holiday more than the sinking realisation that your suitcase didn’t make the journey with you.

In 2024 alone, over 36 million items of luggage were mishandled by airlines, whether lost, damaged, or stolen. That equates to roughly seven bags per thousand checked in. While the majority do eventually find their way back to their owners, a small fraction simply vanishes into the void.

While most bags contain clothes and toiletries, some hold far more unusual contents. In just the past year, everything from a medieval suit of armour to a glass eye and even a toilet seat has turned up.

Unclaimed Baggage, a company in the US that sells items from lost luggage, sees it all. Their annual report reveals the odd and often unbelieva-

ble things found in suitcases. CEO Bryan Owens says these finds tell surprising stories about people’s lives and travels. Some discoveries are almost unbelievable: a Roman soldier’s helmet, a medieval breastplate, and even a freeze-dried chicken’s foot. One bag held a rattlesnake in a jar of whisky, while another was filled entirely with preserved spiders and beetles, no clothes at all, just insects.

Then there are items that leave staff scratching their heads. A worn-out French book on exorcisms, silicone pregnancy bellies, glitter-covered dentures, and padded underwear have all turned up. One suitcase, surprisingly heavy, turned out to be packed only with rocks, no explanation given.

Lost luggage might be a traveller’s nightmare, but what turns up can be stranger than fiction.

INTERVIEW

Tamás Nagy videographer from HungarySpeaking European

ORIGINALLY working in hospitality on a cruise ship, he proposed to his wife Zsuzsanna and de cided cruise life wasn’t suitable for marriage. So, they jumped ship and settled in Spain, where Tamás got a job working in Gibraltar.

“I bought my first GoPro just be fore we went on our honeymoon, and that got me started. Every Christmas or birthday, it was something else. I asked for my first drone, then it was a new lens, and so on. I started meeting a lot of people and getting work offered to me.”

Do you do weddings?

“I can find my romantic side when I want to, but recently I’ve been working on rock climbing videos. I rock-climb myself. I like getting my hands dirty.”

Despite competition from amateurs with iPhones, Tamás’s professional work stands head-andshoulders above the rest.

Would you ever move back to Hungary?

His career grew through networking and never saying no to work, from filming Ironman events to corporate projects in Dubai and Miami often covering sports and corporate projects.

“NO!” He immediately and emphatically cries. “It’s a different style of life here. In Hungary, no one speaks to you in anything other than Hungarian. Here in Spain, people help you if you don’t know much Spanish. The neighbours invite us to garden parties and we buy each other wine on birthdays.”

Some bags hold far more unusual contents.

Image: Akimov Igor / Shutterstock.com

Tamás Nagy from Hungary, videographer.

Tamás Nagy, a videographer living between Estepona and Gibraltar, found his calling in Spain.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Krone crisis

IN just 3.5 months of 2025, the Norwegian krone swung from strong to heavily penalised. New US import tariffs announced on April 2 and falling oil prices triggered a sharp downturn in the currency’s value, marking a volatile start to the year.

Ryanair ruckus

RYANAIR continues to pressure Aena Airports and the Spanish government over airport fees. The airline’s CEO, Eddie Wilson, plans to withdraw more planes and flights from medium-sized and small airports in 2026 if the airport authority does not lower the rates it charges airlines to operate.

Telecom trim

TELEFONICA, one of the largest telecommunications service providers in the world, has exited Argentina and Colombia in 2025, marking two sales this year. The Spanish group now aims to sell its operations in Mexico and Uruguay, continuing its strategy to streamline assets and boost cash flow.

Orkney okay

THE Orkney Islands Council, in the north of Scotland, awarded Acciona and Jones Bros a contract to study and possibly develop a port at Scapa. Scapa Flow, a major deepwater harbour, could host large vessels vital for supporting the region’s growing offshore wind industry.

Rate hopes

IN early 2025, Europe’s fixed-income markets were driven by growth, inflation, and interest rate expectations. Europe’s hopes for European Central Bank rate cuts are starting to fade as concerns about reigniting inflation are growing, despite signs of economic weakness in the eurozone.

SPAIN is set to become one of Europe’s leading markets for shorthaul flights by 2030, according to Bain & Company. The country is expected to reach 40 million outbound travellers on routes under 4,000 km. It will join the UK (69 million) and Germany (47 million) at the top, despite concerns about the environmental impact of these flights.

The growth is driven by a recovery in tourism and strong demand for travel within Europe.

Short-haul flights will continue to dominate in Spain, while long-distance routes will grow more slowly.

In 2023, Spain’s Sumar party and the PSOE agreed to limit short flights that could be replaced by train journeys under four hours.

France already has a rule banning such flights if a train can do the trip in two and a half hours, but this only removed six routes.

If Spain introduced the same limit as France, it could cut many mainland flights. However, travel to the Canary and Balearic Islands

IN big news for coffee lovers, Italian coffee maker Bialetti has been bought by Hong Kong-based Nuo Capital, owned by businessman Stephen Cheng. The firm has secured 78.6 per cent of Bialetti through two separate deals: 59 per cent from the main owner for €47.3 million, and another 19.6 per cent from Sculptor Ristretto for €5.7 million.

Nuo Capital plans to buy out the rest of the shares in June and remove Bia-

Thrifty travels

TRAVEL to Europe is getting more expensive this summer, with costs up 38 per cent from 2024. As prices rise, more people are now eyeing up cheaper destinations that still offer a great experience.

According to travel site Squaremouth, affordable European spots are becoming more popular as travellers look to get more for their money.

Budget-conscious tourists are picking places rich in culture, beauty, and value. This summer, Poland leads the list as the most affordable European destination.

per cent is the increase of foreign workers in Spain since 2019, reaching 2.9 million. They now hold 13.7 per cent of jobs, contributing to 40 per cent of new employment.

Key players

is still increasing. So far, the government has not enforced the rule and supports airlines, who say these flights are important for connections in Madrid and Barcelona.

Across Europe, short-haul flight demand is expected to fall by 7.5 per cent by 2030 due to new rules,

Latte

legacy

carbon costs, and delays in aircraft supply.

In contrast, air travel in Asia is expected to rise by 53 per cent.

The US will lead in outbound travel, while China and India also show strong growth.

Global air travel in 2024 passed pre-pandemic levels.

Nordic nest

HYATT Hotels has opened a new Hyatt Place in the heart of Gothenburg, Sweden.

The 300-room Hyatt Place Gothenburg Central, located above the Central Station, was previously the Hotel G Gothenburg. After a year-long renovation, it has been rebranded as part of Hyatt’s expansion.

The hotel features amenities like the Blanche Brasserie & Bar, a fitness centre, and various meeting spaces, with the largest room accommodating up to 100 guests.

Hyatt Place is one of the hotel brand’s ‘select service’ options, with over 400 properties worldwide, including 12 in Europe.

Last month, Hyatt also opened a dual-branded development in Leeds, UK, featuring both Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels.

letti from the Milan Stock Exchange. The offer will start at €0.467 per share - a rise from the previous closing price of €0.28. On the French market, Bialetti shares have climbed to €0.30. Bialetti, founded after the First World War by Antonio Bialetti, became world-famous for the Moka pot, launched in 1933. With its unique design and cartoon mascot, the brand became a symbol of Italian coffee culture, still loved today.

Brussels

blueprint

IN March, the European Commission unveiled its Savings and Investments Union (SIU) strategy to channel more public savings into EU capital markets. The Commission believes these proposals will increase spending on key priorities and make the EU more appealing to businesses.

The initiative builds on two prior Capital Markets Union (CMU) action plans and the push for a banking union. Although the CMU concept dates back to the 1957 Treaty of Rome, real action began in 2015.

Following the UK’s 2016 Brexit vote, the CMU’s focus expanded to strengthening the EU’s economic resilience and adapting to post-Brexit challenges.

SHEIN is facing some serious challenges ahead. New US tariffs on Chinese goods could hurt its top market, North America, where it made $14.1 billion (€12.4 billion) last year.

Chinese sellers like Shein used to avoid duties on orders under $800 (€704), keeping prices low. This brought in up to $46 billion (€40.5 billion) a year.

But in May, even small shipments will face a $75 (€66) fee, rising to $150 (€132) in June. Plus, new tariffs may hit 145 per cent.

Elite upgrade Shein struggle

SCANDINAVIAN Airlines (SAS) is improving the travel experience with the introduction of a new European Business Class, set to begin on October 1. This updated offering is designed to meet the increasing demand for a more comfortable and clearcut Business Class experience on European routes. This move is an important step to strengthen SAS’s role as a top premium airline. With a more competitive and globally aligned Business Class, the airline hopes to attract travellers who value comfort, flexibility, and high-quality service.

crown

SPAIN’S CaixaBank has been named the ‘Most Innovative Bank in Western Europe’ for the fifth time at The Innovators awards, presented by the US magazine Global Finance. The awards, in their 11th year, recognise organisations that lead in technological innovation, highlighting their development of groundbreaking products and services in global banking.

CaixaBank has won this accolade five times in the past seven years.

The brand became a symbol of Italian coffee culture. Image: Bialetti / Facebook

The Spanish government supports airlines.

909,00 920,00 908,50 1,29M

3.938,0 3.942,0 3.864,0 301,4K

359,40 360,75 351,40 57,54M

Catalan crunch

FIRST, there were long-term rentals. Then, seasonal rentals. And finally, room rentals are on their way to becoming a luxury in Spain’s Catalonia region. According to data compiled by Fotocasa, the region has become the most prohibitively expensive for apartment sharing.

Clean Power

THE European Commission has now approved Spain’s €400 million aid plan to fund green hydrogen projects via Hydrogen Bank auctions, using Recovery Plan funds for Spanish-based projects excluded from the EU-wide auction set for December 2024.

Billionaire boost

SPANISH billionaire Amancio Ortega, founder of Inditex, is preparing to make a major investment in Spanish real estate through his firm Pontegadea.

He is currently in negotiations with Blackstone to buy a prominent office building located at 662 Avenida Diagonal in Barcelona, home to the headquarters of Grupo Planeta.

The deal is expected to be worth around €240 million, making it Ortega’s largest property purchase

Monopoly war

META, formerly known as Facebook, is the tech giant founded by Mark Zuckerberg. It owns three of the world’s most widely used social networks: Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Today, it’s hard to find someone untouched by Meta, whether through WhatsApp (used by over 90 per cent of Spaniards), Instagram, or Facebook. But its dominance is now under fire.

The company faces a major lawsuit from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which argues that Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp over the past decade have created a monopoly. This, the FTC claims, has formed a monopoly over the last 10 years that hasn’t allowed free competition and opportunities for other social media apps.

in Spain since 2016, when he acquired Torre Cepsa in Madrid for €490 million.

Blackstone bought the Barcelona property in 2018 for €210 million from Inversiones Hemisferio and invested €10 million in upgrades, renaming it D Garden 662.

The 27,000 m2 building, designed by architects Josep Maria Fargas and Enric Tous in 1978, is known for its prime location and for being Europe’s first vertical garden. It has nine floors and 350 parking spaces. Grupo Planeta leases the majority of the space, with other tenants including HIP, Antena 3, and Banca Mediolanum.

Ortega is one of the largest private landlords in Spain and globally. He uses dividends from his 59.24 per cent stake in Inditex to fund property investments, receiving over €3 billion in dividends this year alone.

Tit for Tat

THE European Union has announced it will impose tariffs on American products like toilet paper, soybeans, eye makeup, and many others if trade talks with the United States fail.

The 27-country bloc released a list of U.S. products that will face additional customs duties of 25 per cent unless an agreement is reached with the U.S.

Pharma power

IN 2022, pharmaceutical companies invested €110 million in organisations across the EU, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK. Major companies like Pfizer, Novo Nordisk, and AstraZeneca are funding various initiatives, including advocacy, campaigns, media projects, and podcasts. This is now raising concerns about the growing influence of the pharmaceutical industry in the sector.

Amancio Ortega

Walk for Life ALMERIA Police Tribute

THE Big Walk for Life Weekend will take place in Arboleas on Friday, April 25, and Saturday, April 26. This popular annual event raises money to support people in the local area affected by cancer.

The main walk happens on Saturday at 5.00pm, when people of all ages will walk or run either three or six kilometres. Last year’s event saw over 400 participants and raised more than €18,000.

Entertainment is lined up for both evenings, with talented vocalist Dani Hirst flying in from the UK to support the cause. Friday’s music starts at 6.00pm and features Dani, Hot Vox, Jools & Co, Ocean Journey,

and Rewind. Saturday’s show begins after the walk at 7.00pm, with performances from Dani Hirst, Harmony Duo, and Skyfall. The live music is free to enjoy, and there will be a bar and food available on-site.

Seats are limited and cannot be reserved, so visitors are encouraged to bring their

PARTY IN THE PARK is back on Sunday, April 27, at Parque El Palmeral in Vera. The event will run from 1.00pm to 6.00pm and promises a fun afternoon of live music, food, and local stalls.

The afternoon will be hosted by the teams from Almeria Radio 107.5 and Almeria Gold 97.7. There will be two stages with a mix of great live music from local performers.

On the Almeria Radio Stage, you

own chairs.

People who wish to take part in the walk can register on Friday evening during the entertainment.

The organisers invite everyone to get involved in this fun and meaningful weekend and help raise vital funds for cancer support in the community.

can enjoy Seldom Sober, Sharon Regan, Odyssey, Jules & Co, Suzi Bo, Kayleigh and Abbie Lou. Over on the Almeria Gold Stage, acts include Steve Jackson, Fugitives Los, DnA, Bandidos, Fugitives, John Slater and The Jam Band.

There will also be food stalls, a tea room, a bar and lots of things to see

IF you love The Police, you won’t want to miss De Polis, a tribute band playing all your favourite songs from the legendary rock group. The band will perform at Valery Mojacar, Paseo del Mediterráneo, 213, on Wednesday, April 30, starting at 4.30pm.

De Polis is known for covering hits like ‘Roxanne’, ‘Every Breath You Take’, and ‘Message in a Bottle’, bringing the classic sounds of The Police to life. Fans can expect a fun and energetic show, with plenty of crowd favourites.

ring hits like ‘Roxanne’, ‘Every quickly as people come

to enjoy the music.

To make sure you get a good seat, it’s a good idea to book your table ahead of time. The venue is expec-

Don’t miss out on this chance to hear some of the best rock songs ever played live. Reserve your spot now, and get ready for a great time with De Polis in Mojacar!

Party in the Park Passion and preservation Car Show

and do throughout the park. Tickets cost just €5 per person and can be bought at the gate or in advance from the Lions Shop in Turre. The event is organised by Vera Lions with support from Vera Town Hall. It’s a great way to enjoy a Sunday afternoon with friends and family while supporting local groups and charities.

CAR lovers from across the region will gather once again at Bar Restaurante La Tramoya on Sunday, April 27, for the latest edition of the 950 Classic & Performance Car Show - a monthly celebration of mechanical beauty, shared memories, and the enduring spirit of restoration.

More than just an exhibition, the event serves as a meeting point for enthusiasts who believe that classic cars are more than machines - they are rolling pieces of history. From gleaming vintage roadsters to muscular performance icons, each vehicle tells a story, many of them brought back to life through painstaking restoration work.

The event will return next month for another exhilarating edition.

Each vehicle tells a story, many of them brought back to life through painstaking restoration work.

Walking together for hope.

Relive

Things are different

LEAPY

LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ONE thing the Brits have never lacked is courage. World wars, the blitz, Roman invaders and a whole host of past adversaries, have always failed to quench the indomitable spirit of our great Island race. Well, I’m sorry to say that whole scenario is now changing. An enemy more deadly than all the opposing forces that have assailed us in the past now threatens to engulf our once great country and is slowly but surely eating it away from within. For the first time ever, people are genuinely frightened.

Today’s adversaries are the bureaucrats and MPs, the so-called leaders of the British people. The public servants, who have been voted into positions of power and trusted to protect and stand up for the British community and defend their rights and their heritage. The betrayal by these people is making UK citizens feel even more unsafe in their own country than they felt

when the Nazi jackboot threatened. At least at that time we were all in it together. The enemy was there for all to see and the Brits knew who and what they were fighting for. Now the scenario is so confused people are utterly baffled as to how they should react or even behave. I’ll give you an example. In my cabaret spot (attended mainly by British tourists) I do slip in a couple of extremely mild ‘racist’ jokes. As the act has never really changed (I know I know!) I have seen the different reaction to these same gags from UK audiences over many years. At first the stories were generally met with open guffaws of pretty innocuous merriment. As the years went by reactions slowly altered.

These different phases went from full on laughter to somewhat derisive scoffing. We then moved on to laughter mixed with occasional whoops of defiant communal assent. The next phase involved rather more subdued sniggers with people looking at each other to see if their merriment was being shared. We have now hit rock bottom.

What I see now is subdued embarrassment and actual fear on the audience faces as they furtively glance around to see if they could be involved in some type of ‘offence’ that could get them reprimanded or even arrested. And it’s not pretty. The British spirit is being defeated, by brainwashing political correctness, ‘uman rights advocators and the appeasers of minority groups to a point where they are utterly confused as to what is right and wrong and are actually in fear of revealing their true feelings in public.

One thing I have happily noticed however is that the Labour government is at last following the USA example (probably leftie crawling!) by completely banning all biologically non-females from lady’s public amenities, including the quarters of victims of domestic violence.

A good start. Hopefully the rules of all their sporting competitions are next on the agenda. Keep that mail coming. Having a few WiFi probs at the mo but will answer when I can.

Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Lamb weekend

NOVAS VENDAS is putting lamb on the map. On May 19 and 20, this tiny parish near Évora is hosting its annual Lamb Gastronomic Weekendand it’s all about comfort food, tradition, and community.

Seventeen local restaurants are taking part, each serving up their own take on classic Alentejo lamb dishes. Think oven-roasted lamb with crispy potatoes, slow-cooked stews, grilled chops - even lamb’s head for the brave.

It’s not about fancy plating - it’s about heart, flavour, and bringing people together. The event taps into what makes this region feel like home: honest food shared around a table. But it’s not just about eating. For every €10 spent, diners get a ticket for a prize draw. The prize? A €50 voucher to use at one of the same restaurants later on. In other words, eat now, maybe eat free next time.

Organisers say the goal is to highlight local culinary heritage while supporting small businessesand judging by early buzz, it’s working. So if you’re anywhere near Évora and craving a proper plate of lamb, this is your sign.

Come hungry, bring friends, and stay for the good vibes.

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

Tender Lamb shanks like these will be on the menu during Évora’s Lamb Gastronomic Weekend.

Your Friends & Neighbours

MAD MEN’S Jon Hamm stars in this thrilling, satirical series. It’s as if the Mad Men character, Don Draper, moved to the suburbs, got divorced, and started nicking Rolexes from his neighbours in the affluent area known as Westmont Village. Your Friends & Neighbours features the main character Coop - a hedge fund victim

Season One

clinging to what’s left of his wealth and masculinity.

When money starts to dry up after being fired, he does whatever it takes to stay looking rich.

Also starring Olivia Munn and Amanda Peet. Available on Apple TV+.

The Last of Us

SEASON two of The Last of Us bring some heavy emotional scenes from the very beginning. Spoiler: The show dares to do what most wouldn’t - it kills off a main character at the start. Ellie and newcomer Abby are now surviving in a post-apocalyptic world where the infected are still terrifying. Unlike the roadtrip structure of season one, season two focuses on grief, guilt, and vengeance.

Each episode peels back another layer of trauma. Visually stunning, it shows a brutal yet beautiful evolution of a world where no one can fully escape. Available on HBO.

Bayesian yacht raising

THE Bayesian yacht looks set to finally be lifted from the depths, after the original operation planned for January 2025 had to be delayed. The Bayesian sank on August 1, 2024, and is now lying 165 feet under the sea, just off the coast of Porticello in Italy. Sadly, as a result of this sinking, seven people aboard the yacht lost their lives, including British billionaire Mike Lynch and his daughter Hannah.

The salvage operation had originally been inten-

ded to start at the beginning of this year, but the winter weather put paid to those plans. This, in turn, meant a further delay in getting answers as to what really happened as part of the inquest into the cause of death.

The shipbuilder has continuously denied the possibility that the yacht’s design was technically faulty in any way and insisted that the vessel was ‘unsinkable’. Instead, they have pointed the finger firmly at the crew, claiming that mis-

takes were made that led to the tragic incident. Up until now, several crew members, including the yacht’s captain, have been placed under investigation.

Now the Italian authorities have tasked two Dutch salvage companies with lifting the 540-tonne wreck, with the operation expected to start later this month. One piece that is considered to be valuable evidence is the hull, and officials have stated that this is unlikely to be lifted until around mid-May.

The Bayesian yacht salvage operation begins this month.

The Polish miracle Galactic vows

A LAS VEGAS wedding chapel is marking Star Wars Day on May 4 by introducing two themed wedding packages inspired by the iconic series.

The Little Vegas Chapel, which previously hosted Star Wars-themed weddings on May 4, 2024, is now offering

couples the chance to celebrate their big day in a galaxy far, far away. They can choose between two packages, called ‘YODA One For Me’ and ‘Love Star’.

To promote these packages, the chapel shared images of staff members wearing

t-shirts with the slogan, ‘Til Death Star Do Us Part’.

Both packages include an officiant dressed as either Princess Leia or Darth Vader, along with ‘custom Star Wars music’, bouquets and boutonnieres, professional photography, a video of the ceremony, and a Star Wars-themed wedding certificate.

The ‘Love Star’ package is priced at $600, while the more expensive ‘YODA One For Me’ package, which offers round-trip limousine service and a unity sand ceremony, costs $860.

POLAND is set to overtake Japan in living standards by 2026, marking a stunning shift in global economic rankings.

Back in 1990, the idea that the average Pole could one day match - or even overtake - the standard of living of someone in Japan would have sounded like a wild fantasy. Japan was the global poster child for modernity, industrial efficiency, and economic power.

Poland, on the other hand, was just emerging from decades of Soviet communism and ranked among the poorest countries in Europe.

But if projections from the International

Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank are right, by 2026 Poland will overtake Japan in GDP per capita adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP). It’s a statistical win, yesbut one packed with symbolic meaning. GDP per capita adjusted for PPP paints a truer picture of average living standards, putting all prices on a level playing field as if they were in the US.

Poland’s journey has been impressively consistent, with its economy growing an average of 4 per cent annually since 1990even through the global financial crisis of 2008–2009.

Credit: Aleja Niepdleglosci. Creative Commons

Aerial view of Niepodległości Avenue in Warsaw with the city centre tall buildings.

Star Wars-themed.

Image: Little Vegas Chapel / Facebook

Long-lasting make-up

ACHIEVING long-lasting make-up requires the right techniques and products to ensure your look stays fresh all day. Here are some essential tips:

1. A clean base

Cleanse your face thoroughly before applying make-up. This helps remove excess oils and dirt, providing a smooth surface for makeup to adhere to. Follow up with a moisturiser suited to your skin type to keep your skin hydrated.

2. Use a primer

A good primer creates a smooth canvas, blurs imperfections, and helps your make-up last longer. Choose a primer that matches your skin concerns, such as mattifying for oily skin or hydrating for dry skin.

3. Long-wear foundation

Choose a long-lasting foundation designed to stay put throughout the day.

4. Set it and forget it

After applying make-up, use a setting spray or powder to seal everything in. Setting sprays provide a lightweight finish and keep make-up in place for hours. If using powder, lightly dust over the face to prevent it from looking cakey.

5. Waterproof products

For smudge-free eyes and lips, go for waterproof mascaras, eyeliners, and long-wear lipsticks. These formulas hold up better in humid conditions or during long hours.

6. Hands off!

Avoid touching your face throughout the day, as it can transfer oils and dirt onto your make-up, causing it to break down faster.

With these tips, your make-up will last longer, ensuring you look fresh from morning until night!

Smart eating habits

YOUR liver works nonstop to filter toxins, support digestion, and regulate metabolism. Yet, daily food choices can either help or harm this vital organ. Maintaining a liver-friendly diet can reduce inflammation, prevent fat buildup, and improve overall function.

Healthy fats, fruits, and wholegrains play a key role in protecting the liver. Unsaturated fats from avocados, oily fish, and nuts help lower inflammation, reducing the risk of conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, and wholegrains such as brown rice and wholemeal bread aid digestion while preventing fat accumulation in liver cells. Simple swaps - like using olive oil instead of butter or adding berries to breakfast - can have longterm benefits.

However, certain foods

can overwork the liver. Saturated fats from processed snacks, fatty meats, and pastries can contribute to harmful cholesterol buildup. Excess sugar, especially in fizzy drinks, promotes fat storage in liver cells, increasing the risk of disease. Alcohol remains one of the biggest threats, as regular overconsumption damages liver tissue. While occasional treats are fine, keeping an eye on

portion sizes and having alcohol-free days can ease the strain.

For a sustainable approach, diets like the Mediterranean or DASH plan offer liver-friendly options rich in lean proteins, wholegrains, and healthy fats. If you have liver concerns, consulting a dietitian can help tailor a plan suited to your needs while keeping your liver in top shape.

Credit : Shutterstock, RossHelen

A visual reminder of how nutrient-rich foods and balanced eating can support long-term liver health.

A TOTAL of 2,461 brave individuals plunged into the icy waters of the Czech Republic’s second-largest lake to set a new world record for the largest polar bear dip.

The record-breaking event took place on March 1 at Most Lake, with the water temperature recorded below 50°F. The attempt was organised by Czech freediver David Vencl, who led the effort to surpass

Frozen feat

the previous record of 1,799 swimmers. This record was set in 2015 at the 12th Ice Swimmers Convention in Poland.

David Vencl is no stranger to extreme water feats; he previously held the record for the longest swim under ice, a record he set in 2021 and only recently lost in

March this year.

Polar bear plunges, where participants dive into freezing water, are popular winter events. In the United States, they are often held to raise funds for charity, while in Canada, they typically take place on New Year’s Day as a way to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

Michelin Stars: a mystery

MICHELIN GUIDE

2025: Anonymous Inspectors, Secret Visits, Opaque System... How are Stars Awarded?

Every year, the same questions are on the lips of all food lovers. Which chefs will earn their first star? Who will see their restaurant rise or fall in the rankings? The awarding of stars is the result of a lengthy process, as secretive as feared.

Any chef will tell you: earning a Michelin star guarantees fantastic attention, sometimes even a fully-booked restaurant months in advance. But contrary to what one might believe, there is no fixed rating scale. Restaurants are rated by anonymous inspectors. They visit restaurants unannounced and pay their bill like any other customer. They then submit a report and judge the cuisine based on five criteria: the quali-

ty of the products, the mastery of cooking and flavours, the originality of the chef, the value for money, and the consistency over time.

Although the visits are unannounced and the identity of the inspectors remains a secret, the final verdict is never left to a single critic: several visits are made before a collective decision is reached. The inspectors then award

Secret powers

IF you could choose any superpower, what would it be? A recent survey asked the UK public this very question, and the results reveal some fascinating insights into the superpowers Britons would most like to possess.

Invisibility takes the top spot, with 19 per cent of those surveyed saying they’d love to become unseen by the naked eye. The ability to y follows closely behind, with 15 per cent of respondents expressing a desire to soar through the skies, though whether a cape is involved remains unclear.

Teleportation and time travel are tied in third place, with 7 per cent of people picking each of these powers. Rounding out the top ve is healing powers, which appeals to 6 per cent of respondents. When it comes to gender di erences, women are signi cantly more likely to choose invisibility than men. Around 22 per cent of women selected this as their preferred superpower, compared to just 15 per cent of men, for whom ight was equally as popular (16 per cent).

one or more stars depending on the quality of the cuisine. Only 100 establishments worldwide hold the prestigious and coveted three stars.

This year, the Michelin Guide awarded 68 new stars in France. In total, there are 31 triple-starred restaurants in France, following the downgrade of the Georges Blanc house (Vonnas) recently.

Age also seems to inuence choices. Invisibility is more popular among those aged 25-64, with 21-22 per cent of people in that range opting for it. In comparison, only 14 per cent of those aged 65 and over, and 12 per cent of 18-24-year-olds, chose invisibility. Meanwhile, younger Britons are more likely to pick teleportation, with 16 per cent of them choosing it, this number decreases with age, dropping to just 3 per cent among those over 65.

A new world record was set for the largest polar bear dip.

Ability to fly.

Restaurant recognition plaque in the Michelin Guide.

Credit: Shutterstock

Trust and respect

TIKTOK user @anna.matea, a Spanish lady who now lives in Finland, has been using her social media platform to highlight the cultural differences between the two countries. In her latest video, she has shared just how much the Finns respect other people’s property. This feels reminiscent of the stories of ‘days gone by’ where it was ok to leave your door unlocked as there was no fear of a break-in.

In this instance, she is talking about property that is left outside of the parking area of a high school or in front of the ice hockey or training rinks. She asks: “What do you think would happen if you did this in Spain?” She is referring to the fact that those with motorcycles will happily leave their helmets on the handlebars, confident in the fact that their property will still be there when they return.

She delights in telling her followers how she lives in a place where respect for others’ property is a priority and comments on how she feels this should still be the case everywhere.

She goes on to explain that it could be a helmet, a book, a phone or even a bag that has been left; Finns would feel safe doing so because it is their culture not to touch what doesn’t belong to them.

Caution: Jokes ahead. Sense of humour required

FROM COAST TO COAST

“WHAT am I going to joke about?”

The comedian asked the scriptwriter, both staring at the blank page as if it might blink first.

The easy answer?

Avoid anything that might offend.

Simple - until you realise that everything seems to offend someone these days.

We seem to be living in a contactless society - not just for payments, but for feelings too.

And heaven forbid a joke brushes against someone’s delicate sensibilities.

They might spill their Rioja in shock.

But seriously - when did we start getting offended by everything?

There’s no tidy answer. Comedy is a slippery art form, meant to entertain, help unwind, and, most importantly, make us laugh.

Because laughter - proper laughter - comes from the delicious absurdity of it all.

It reminds us that we’re human, flawed, fabulous, and frankly a bit ridiculous.

Whether or not we agree with a punchline, comedy is there to break the ice, lift the mood, and remind us of something we all need more than SPF 50 on a July afternoon:

To smile.

Smiling isn’t just a mood - it’s chemistry.

A full-body ‘you’re doing fine’ from nature.

And sometimes, that little chuckle is all you need to feel a bit better about life.

So why are we trimming humour down just to keep the peace?

Once again: no simple answer.

I’m not here to conclude anything - I’m just here to ask the question.

A question you might have quietly asked yourself over a cold drink on a sunny terra-

ce in Malaga.

Let’s be honest: we’ve all laughed at things that today would spark an online petition.

Little Britain? Fawlty Towers? Benny Hill?

Cancelled.

Married… with Children? Gone.

But there’s a difference between being crude for the sake of it and being clever with a twist.

Between poking fun and punching down.

I, for one, appreciate humour with a little elegance.

But I also love a well-placed cheeky jabthe kind that sneaks in just as you’re taking a sip and makes you nearly spit it out.

If you looked at my DNA, you’d probably find a blend of sun cream, good tacos, and a healthy sense of irony.

So should I walk around with my Offendemeter™ strapped on, beeping at every imagined insult?

No, thanks.

I’ve chosen to take life with a grain of salt… and maybe a slice of lime.

Let comedy be comedy. Let drama do its thing.

But let’s not take everything so seriously. Even life itself has a twisted sense of humour.

One day, it’ll lean in, tap you on the shoulder and say:

“Guess what? Today’s your last day on Earth.

“Don’t bother packing. Your bank card won’t work where you’re going.”

And the only question that’ll matter is: Did you laugh enough?

Disclaimer:

Laughed? Perfect.

Didn’t? Snack, siesta, retry. Offended? Update your Offendemeter. No refunds - like €3 rosé, best enjoyed chilled.

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers

Shutterstock Chrisdorney

Finns respect the property of others.

PRESS RELEASE

Long-time Embassy driver Pedro Molina and Arbúcies mayor Pere Garriga awarded BEM

HIS MAJESTY King Charles III has awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) to Pedro Molina, a driver of the British Embassy to Spain and Andorra, and Pere Garriga, the mayor of Arbúcies.

Pedro Molina joined the Embassy in Madrid in 1993 as a messenger and bi ker, progressing to his current position as His Majesty’s Ambassador’s driver 25 years ago. His hard work and dedication to the Embassy, as well as to the six Am bassadors and countless visiting Minis terial delegations he has served, are an exemplary record of public service.

The British Ambassador to Spain, Sir Alex Ellis, said:

“Pedro’s commitment and service over the past three decades have been inva luable to the many British ambassadors and to the Embassy in Madrid. His pro fessionalism, dedication, calm and good humour have greatly contributed to a deeper and stronger UK-Spain partners hip and the comfort of numerous high-le vel visitors.”

Pedro Molina said:

“I am proud to receive this award, af ter three decades working as a driver with several representatives of the United Kingdom in Spain and Andorra. My main goal is that the car is their safe space and an opportunity to pause between mee tings and calls.”

Pere Garriga, the mayor of the Catalan town of Arbúcies, has been recognised for services to the memory of British na tionals in Spain following his efforts to commemorate those who died in the 1970 Arbúcies plane crash.

On July 3, 1970, a plane travelling from Manchester to Barcelona crashed into the densely forested mountains of the Montseny, near the small village of Arbú cies. This disaster resulted in the single largest loss of British lives on the Iberian Peninsula, with 112 British nationals perishing in the crash.

Mr Garriga, who remembers the accident as a child in Arbúcies, has ensured that the final resting place in the cemetery of Arbúcies, known as el cementiri dels anglesos, the Cemetery of the English, was restored and is maintained with care. Each year Mr Garriga organises a memorial service on July 3, ensuring that the tragic accident is remembered with dignity.

Ambassador Alex Ellis said:

“Pere has shown remarkable dedication in commemorating the British nationals who tragically lost their lives in the

1970 plane crash near Arbúcies. I am pleased that his efforts to ensure the victims are remembered with dignity and respect are being honoured with a British Empire Medal.”

Pere Garriga said:

“Everything I’ve done over the years has been aimed at improving the quality of life of our citizens and, in the case of the 1970 plane crash, keeping the memory of the victims alive and strengthening ties with their families. It’s a commitment that remains more alive than ever and invites us to continue working with the same spirit of respect, memory, and humanity.”

Pedro Molina is proud to receive his award.

Pere Garriga remains committed.

Not ‘Rembrandts’

THE Mauritshuis Museum, in the Dutch city of The Hague, has announced that two paintings that were attributed to Rembrandt were not completed by the artist himself.

After examination done by the museum’s research department, the conclusion appears to be that these are paintings created by students working at the Dutch artist’s studio, but not by Rembrandt himself.

Rembrandt, generally considered one of the greatest painters in Western art, has been attributed the authorship of around 300 paintings, many of them displayed in his native country of the Netherlands. For years he also taught artists at his highly influential studios, located in Amsterdam and Leiden. It is in these studios where experts believe

Study of an Old Man, created in the 1650s, was completed. The painting features Rembrandt’s signature, however the painting appears ‘awkward’ according to the museum. The same situation applies to his Portrait of Rembrandt with a Gorget, which has long been suspected to be someone else’s work. However, experts were able to confirm its status as not a fake, but a copy of his original work done by someone else at his studio.

Irish observatories

IRELAND could soon add two remarkable scientific landmarks to its limited list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To mark World Heritage Day, the government has placed Birr Castle Demesne in County Offaly and Dunsink Observatory near Dublin on the country’s tentative list. It’s the essential first step in what could be a long journey towards official UNESCO status. Birr Castle is home to the once world’s largest telescope - the Leviathan of Parsonstown, built in 1845 and unmatched for over 70 years. Dunsink Observatory, founded in 1785, played a central role in Irish astronomy and was the workplace of renowned scientist William Rowan Hamilton.

The final misattributed painting is Tronie of an Old Man, highly likely to have been produced at the same studio. The mystery is still not fully resolved, but while art history experts work out the details, visitors can enjoy these three works at a special exhibition at the Mauritshuis during future visits to The Hague.

trio showcasing Ireland’s contribution to global knowledge. “This isn’t just about bricks and telescopes,” said Minister James Browne. “It’s about shared heritage, island-wide cooperation, and putting our story on the world stage.”

The nomination also includes Armagh Observatory in Northern Ireland, with the three sites presented as a scientific

Currently, Ireland’s World Heritage Sites include Brú na Bóinne and Sceilg Mhichíl, while

Northern Ireland has the Giant’s Causeway and Gracehill. Birr and Dunsink could soon join that list - though only sites on the tentative list for over a year can be considered. Professor Peter Gallagher said the goal is not only to preserve history, but also to inspire the future: “These places hold stories that can light the way for the next generation.”

Rembrandt exhibition at Mauritshuis Museum.

Credits: infobae.com

Birr Castle Demesne in County Offaly, once home to the world’s largest telescope, is now on Ireland’s tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.

Basic income appraisal

WHAT if you received a fixed sum of money every month - no strings attached, no work re quired? It might sound like a utopian fantasy, but that’s exactly what a bold experiment in Germany set out to explore.

The idea of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) isn’t new. Economists have been modelling it for decades, and unlikely voices - from Mar xist thinkers to Elon Musk - have shown su pport for some form of it. In Germany, deba tes around UBI have been going on since the 1970s. Meanwhile, Spain introduced its own version - the Ingreso Mínimo Vital - in 2020 to help lift people out of poverty, and early results are encouraging.

But that raises a key question: if people don’t need to work, will they still want to?

So, what did they do?

More than two million people applied to take part in the experiment.

From those applicants, 122 people were randomly chosen to receive €1,200 per month - tax-free - for three years, starting in mid-2021.

And here’s what they found: contrary to fears, people didn’t stop working. On average, recipients kept working around 40 hours a week. A significantly higher percentage of basic income recipients changed jobs. Others went back to study - some even while holding

New night train route

A NEW international night train route linking Malmö and Copenhagen with Basel, Switzerland could be launched as early as spring 2026.

According to a report by NordiskBil.com, the project is a joint initiative between Swiss rail company SBB and Germany’s Railroad Development Corporation (RDC), aiming to reintroduce direct overnight travel between Scandinavia and Central Europe.

SBB spokesperson Sabrina Schellenberg confirmed to Politiken that interest in international night trains is rising, especially on routes currently underserved:

“There are currently no direct connections from Scandinavia to Switzerland and vice versa.”

gly seen as a climate-friendly alternative. According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), train travel emits up to 20 times less CO2 per passenger kilometre than air travel.

down a job.

These career shifts mostly happened in the first 18 months. Afterwards, basic income recipients reported higher satisfaction with their working lives - regardless of whether they’d changed jobs or not.

Beautiful Cortijo near

NEW & EXCLUSIVE TO VOSS HOMES

- An absolutely stunning, recently and beautifully renovated country property which is also a successful, up and running rental business with main house and three rental apartments, (currently with nine bedrooms and four bathrooms) of approx 400m2 with H&C air con throughout, 10m x 5m swimming pool, garage with amazing open country views on 14,386m2 of land near Huercal-Overa.

Six mins drive to the village of Santa Maria with bar / restaurant, shop, doctors, chemists and school, 14 mins drive to Huercal-Overa town. The A7 motorway is less than 10 mins drive away. The beaches of San Juan de Los Terreros or Mojacar are 45 mins drive away.

The property gives very flexible accommodation enabling you to decide which accommodation you want for yourselves and your guests. All apartments have their own entrance doors.

Owner’s current accommodation:- Fitted bespoke kitchen with central island, integrated appliances and lots of storage

Night trains are experiencing a Europe-wide revival, after being scaled back over the past two decades due to the rise of low-cost air travel. Now, they are increasin-

The planned connection would be the first direct night train between Scandinavia and Switzerland in more than 10 years.

Although the Danish Transport Minister Thomas

Danielsen has not commented directly on this project, Politiken reports that he has shown interest in expanding international rail services more broadly.

The Copenhagen–Basel route would allow travellers to fall asleep in Scandinavia and wake up in the heart of Switzerland - no airport queues, no baggage fees, and a much smaller carbon footprint.

space, central lobby, double bedroom with ensuite shower room, second and third double bedrooms, large dining / living room with sun terraces. A concealed door opens into a huge room (currently used for storage) and has a rear door out to the back of the house.

Apartment 1:- Living room, fitted kitchen / diner, two double bedrooms, shower room.

Apartment 2:- Living room / kitchen, covered seating / dining area, double bedroom, shower room.

Apartment 3:- Open plan living / di-

ning room / kitchen, three double bedrooms, shower room.

Immediately around the house is approx 1,300m2 of flat garden, parking, garage, fenced area for dogs etc, pool and entertaining area, outdoor kitchen and dining area. The rest of the land is mostly flat or terraced and is ideal if you want to keep horses etc and plant trees and the area is great for dog walking.

Voss Homes is a British family-run business with offices in the thriving, market town of Huercal-Overa and the village of La Alfoquia village (Zurgena). We are the main selling agent for the Huercal-Overa, Zurgena, La Alfoquia and Taberno area.

For more information or to arrange a viewing please contact Voss Homes DIRECTLY on 0034 950 616 827 or email us at enquiries@vosshomesspain.com.

One of the protagonists decided to train as a yoga teacher during the three years she received basic income.

Credit: Josean Muñoz Salvatierra

The revival of international rail travel.

Credit: OzScott, Pixabay

Costa del Sol Malaga was the place to be

MALAGA’s Semana Santa 2025, increasingly popular across the province, has illuminated Andalucian culture to tourists, complementing the traditional sun-and-beach appeal.

With largely favourable weather, the event surpassed expectations, with last-minute bookings driving hotel occupancy to 85 per cent over the final four days, up from the 83 per cent forecast by Aehcos on Ash Wednesday. The hospitality sector also celebrated higher revenues compared to 2024, when poor weather waged out turnout.

Unlike 2024’s rain-soaked processions, 2025 saw near-perfect conditions. This barely impacted bookings, with a strong jump in the final days. Malaga’s airport handled nearly 5,900 flights, 1,200 more than last year, peaking with 535 and 554 operations on Easter Sunday and Monday, respectively. Aehcos reported provincial hotel occupancy rising from 77 per cent early in the week to 82 per cent by Saturday.

Axarquia

Record-breaking tourism

VELEZ-MALAGA had one of its most successful Holy Weeks in recent memory, with thousands of visitors filling the streets, terraces, beaches, and events across the municipality.

According to Jesús Pérez Atencia, deputy mayor and councillor for Tourism, the 2025 edition of Semana Santa has marked ‘a historic moment’ for local tourism.

“We’ve witnessed our streets and venues overflowing, day and night,” he said during a press conference. “The response has been overwhelming: people have contacted me non-stop to say it was one of the best Holy Weeks we’ve ever had.”

The coastal areas of Torre del Mar and Velez-Malaga were buzzing with activity. The throne exhibition along Paseo de Larios attracted nearly 6,000 visitors. The parades by the Spanish Legion and Regulares also captivated large crowds along the seafront and main squares.

Night processions were another draw, attracting spectators from across Spain and beyond.

Mallorca

New summer routes

THE British airline Jet2.com has inaugurated its new routes to Palma, departing from London Luton and Bournemouth airports.

Jet2.com’s route from the English capital to Mallorca will offer around 40,000 inbound seats thanks to six weekly flights, while flights from Bournemouth to Palma Airport will total approximately 22,000 seats, with four flights per week, the airline stated in a press release.

These two new routes form part of Jet2.com’s summer offering to Palma, which will reach a total of 850,000 inbound seats - 10 per cent more than the previous summer.

To mark the occasion, the first passengers arriving from the UK on these new routes were welcomed in Palma with a special reception and a themed cake.

The airline had already announced it would increase its seat capacity to the Balearic Islands by 9 per cent for this summer season.

Costa Blanca South Top of the class

IN a country with nearly 29,000 schools, standing out is no easy task. But six schools along the Costa Blanca have done just that, earning a spot on Forbes’ list of the 100 best schools in Spain.

The Costa Blanca is already known for its beautiful coastline and Mediterranean way of life. Now, it’s also gaining attention for its top-quality education. From British-style schools to those using new teaching methods, these institutions go beyond exam preparation. They help students grow as people.

The schools included on the list are El Limonar International School Villamartín in San Miguel de Salinas, King’s College School in Alicante, La Devesa School in Elche, Newton College in Elche, Lady Elizabeth School in Benitachell and Xabia International College in Javea.

Their place on Forbes’ top 100 list confirms the region’s rising status as a centre for high-quality learning.

Costa Blanca North Flavours and traditions

AN unforgettable experience awaits those who attend this vibrant and highly traditional festival. The Mercat Gastronomic i Tradicional will take place between April 26 and 27. It is the perfect way to continue the festivities after the Easter celebrations. With 50 stalls displaying their wares and carrying out enlightening demonstrations, there will be something for everyone to enjoy and perhaps learn something new.

Ever wondered about the wool-making process, from shearing the sheep to producing some cosy socks? Or how about the ancient art of iron forging, where skilled blacksmiths transform metal with heat, force and expert hammering? Perhaps you fancy learning to cook traditional recipes such as ‘arros ambs fesols I naps’ (a traditional Valencian stew)? Or how about seeing the incredible human towers ‘castells’?

There will also be musical acts, parades, and a special performance from La Gran Babylon.

Costa Calida

Holiday crowds

CARTAGENA had one of its busiest Easter weeks ever, with thousands of tourists arriving by sea. The city welcomed a record number of cruise passengers this year, with 13 ships docking during the holiday period.

The biggest day was April 16, when five cruise ships arrived at once, bringing 9,000 visitors to the city. Over the full week, around 17,000 cruise passengers docked in Cartagena Port. Good Friday saw three more cruise ships, with two on Holy Saturday and one more on Easter Sunday.

The Easter celebrations started with a double cruise arrival on the Friday of Sorrows, which also marked the feast day of Cartagena’s patron saint. That day, more than 4,000 people visited local museums, including the Roman Theatre, with 1,500 of those visitors coming from other countries. Cruise passengers were drawn in by the city’s famous Easter processions, which are recognised as an event of international tourist interest.

Hidden messages

Least rewarding?

The Luxor Obelisk, gifted to France in the 1830s, stands in Place de la Concorde - now revealed to contain hidden messages from Pharaoh Ramses II.

THE 3,000-YEAR-OLD Luxor Obelisk in Paris has just revealed a set of ancient secrets - and it’s all thanks to a French Egyptologist who decided to read it sideways. Jean-Guillaume Olette-Pelletier, a hieroglyph cryptology expert at Sorbonne University, says he uncovered seven hidden messages on the monument in Place de la Concorde. These were no ordinary inscriptions - they were coded messages from Ramses II, aimed at Egypt’s elite. “During lockdown, I walked past it daily,” Olette-Pelletier said. “When the scaffolding went up, I got close enough to spot something strange.”

The breakthrough came when he stopped reading the hieroglyphs vertically

and tried them horizontally. Subtle puns, hidden signs and coded references began to emerge - all glorifying Ramses II’s divine power. One message, likely aimed at nobles sailing past the original site in Luxor, stressed the pharaoh’s direct link to gods like Amun-Re and Maat. Others featured cryptograms urging offerings to the gods, using animal symbols like bull’s horns to hint at divine wrath. “These carvings were for the educated elite - a secret divine language,” said Olette-Pelletier. Originally a pair, only one of the Luxor obelisks made it to France in 1836. The other remains in Egypt. Nearly two centuries after its arrival in Paris, it turns out the obelisk still has stories to tell - if you know how to listen.

Spain’s stunning story

FORGET Champagne-soaked beach clubs and Michelin-starred indulgence: Marbella’s newest residents are flocking to a rather different hotspot. It’s called The Pool, but don’t pack your swimwear. This sleek, glass-walled co-working space on the Golden Mile has become the meeting point for young entrepreneurs, especially involved in start-ups, from over 30 countries.

Welcome to ‘Marbella 2.0’, a reinvention of the Costa del Sol’s ritzy resort town. Once the preserve of retirees perfecting their golf swings, it’s now a magnet for digital nomads, tech innovators and families seeking year-round sunshine. They’re lured by an expanding tech scene, high-end residential developments, top-tier healthcare and international schools.

The numbers tell the story: Marbella is now home to 153 nationalities, making it Spain’s third most international city after Madrid and Barcelona.

Of its 170,000 residents, nearly a third are foreign-born. The ultra-exclusive Golden Mile (stretching from Marbella to Puerto Banus) counts tennis champion Novak Djokovic and Spotify billionaire Daniel Ek among its residents.

“Marbella’s undergone a huge resurgence in the past four years,” says Daniel Shamoon, co-owner of luxury hotels Puente Romano and Marbella Club. “As a holiday spot, there’s competition. But as a place to live? The best in Europe.”

And for the new wave of digital nomads, The Pool is where they dive into networking before an afternoon at the beach - this time, with the family in tow. Splash!

Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

MILLIONS of workers across Europe take home just a fraction of their country’s average salary. According to the latest Eurostat figures, nearly 15 per cent of the EU workforce is classed as low-paid.

Young women with low levels of education and temporary contracts are the most likely to earn the lowest wages.

That label applies to anyone earning two-thirds or less of their national average wage. And the gender gap is striking: 18.2 per cent of women fall into this category, compared to just 12.5 cent of men. Young people are hit hardest - one in four lowpaid workers is under the age of 30.

The highest shares of low-wage earners are found in Bulgaria (26.8 per cent), Romania (23.9 per cent), Latvia (23.3 per ccent) and Greece (21.7 per cent). At the other end of the scale, Spain, Sweden, Finland and Slove-

nia show the lowest ratessuggesting a more balanced income distribution.

Topping the list are workers in food and hospitality, making up over a third (35.1 per cent) of all low-paid employees in the EU. Close behind are those in admin, logistics and consulting, accounting for 32 per cent.

Contract type and education also play a key role in shaping income. Those on temporary contracts are more than twice as likely to fall into the low-pay bracket compared to workers with permanent jobs (27.2 per cent vs. 12.6 per cent).

Education makes a huge difference too: nearly 28 per cent of workers with low educational attainment land in the lowest wage group, compared to just 4.8 per cent of those with higher education.

Credit Leonid

Andronov, Shutterstock

Education makes a huge difference too.

Credit: Jack Georges. Creative Commons

PETS

Does your pet need a pet-sitter playmate?

NUKKA is a friendly labradoodle, she’s eight years old now but still plays like a puppy. She particularly likes pet-sitters who come to her home, and stay to play with her while her owners are away. Could you play with pets like Nukka keeping them safe and happy in their own home?

Do you have a pet like Nukka who needs care while you travel away from home?

HouseSitMatch saves you money

We promote collaborative exchange through our managed online system - free accommodation for free pet care! It’s a real win win!

HouseSitMatch is safe - All members are checked

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

Your pets stay at home - Safe and undisturbed

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

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

1. Register as a house-sitter or a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Join for as little as £89 / €99 per year

3. Create a profile with photos

4. Sitters apply for the available house-sits, you hold a video interview via the site and match!

How does it work?

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

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

Unbelievably good service! House SitMatch take the worry away from leaving your dog. Lamia and her team helped me through the whole process of finding the right sitter for my slightly nervous dog.

HouseSitMatch’s professional approach and secure platform allowed me to have confidence in the people who applied to look after my dog.

All sitters are checked and referenced before they can approach available ‘sits’, so I found it easy to select the person based on their likelihood of getting on with my pet and our home location.

Teresa, pet owner

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!

LIVING with pets brings endless joy - but also a fair amount of fur. Keeping your home hair-free doesn’t have to be a daily battle, though a few clever habits can make a world of difference. Start with your pet. Regular brushing, especially during shedding season, reduces the amount of loose hair ending up on your

Fur free

floors and furniture. Choose a grooming tool suited to your pet’s coat type and aim for consistency. Around the home, a damp rubber glove works wonders for lifting hair from sofas and cushions,

while microfibre cloths are perfect for hard surfaces. Vacuuming frequently, particularly with a pet-specific hoover, helps keep carpets and rugs fresh. Don’t forget to go over baseboards and corners, where hair loves to

gather.

On wooden or tiled floors, electrostatic mops can trap hair far better than sweeping. For clothing, a lint roller or reusable fabric brush does the trick - keep one by the door for a quick de-fuzz before heading out.

With a few daily tricks, your home can stay clean and cuddle-friendly.

Nukka, loves playing ball. Guess how the pet-sitters pass time in her house…

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BUILDERS

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BUY & SELL

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

CHURCHES

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at  www. almeria-anglican.com

Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 711 086 162

ROYAL BRITISH LEGIONZurgena Branch meetings are now held at Hostal Rosaleda opposite New Bar International in Arboleas. New and Existing Members Welcome Branch Meetings for existing and new members are held on the 1st Thursday of the month, Coffee Morning on the 3rd Thursday and a Quiz on the last Tuesday of the month. For further details please email zurgena. treasurer@rbl.community or zurgena.chairman@rbl. community if you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly. (253989)

DRAINAGE

ELECTRICAL

ABBOTT ELECTRICS. From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691 (300424)

ESTATE AGENT

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 678 002 006 for more information (283824)

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EDS?  We have the solution, Ka magra pills & jells, Cialis,  Side nafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs. Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394 PETS

PLUMBERS

KNOWLES PLUMBING No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 606 807 797 or 684 143 560 (312043)

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR WIND POWER

SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@ sunergyalmeria.com (300068)

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

LANGUAGE CLASS

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €8.00, medium dogs €9.00, big dogs €10.00, cats from €7.50 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotelturre@gmail.com fivebonehotel.com (300941)

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GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693

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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)

Fined for long drive

A LORRY driver traveling from Belgium to Morocco was recently intercepted by the Guardia Civil in Cadiz after reportedly driving non-stop for more than 20 hours. The journey spanned approximately 1,500 kilometres without a break, prompting concerns over road safety.

The infraction was discovered through the vehicle’s tachograph, a device legally required in commercial transport vehicles to monitor driving hours, distances, and rest periods. Authorities issued a total fine of €4,501 - including €4,001 for violating European Transport Regulation and €500 for a breach of the General Traffic Regulation. In addition to the financial penalties, the driver lost six points from their driving licence, and the ve-

hicle was immobilised on the spot.

Tachographs play a critical role in maintaining road safety by ensuring that drivers comply with legally mandated rest times. Any tampering or manipulation of these devices is considered a serious offence in Spain, with potential fines reaching up to €20,000 due to the risks it poses to both traffic safety and labour fairness. Spanish regulations

impose varying sanctions for exceeding permitted driving times. Minor infractions may lead to fines of up to €200, while more severe cases can result in penalties as high as €4,600, along with possible licence suspensions. This case highlights the importance of respecting regulated driving and rest periods, both for the safety of all road users and for compliance with transportation laws.

A SMALL electric bus with no driver at the wheel is now cruising the streets of Barcelona. Renault has begun testing its new autonomous minibus along a 2.2-kilometre city loop, offering free rides to passengers on four central stops - including the iconic Passeig de Gràcia.

The vehicle, developed with Chinese tech firm WeRide, controls its own acceleration, braking and lane positioning using advanced sensors and AI software. It’s fully electric, surprisingly quiet, and glides gently through the city - turning heads wherever it goes.

“We passed a regular diesel bus and I just thought, ‘That’s the past - I’m in the future’,” said 18-year-old Pau Cugat, one of the first to hop on board.

Barcelona joins the race for autonomous

transit

This is the vehicle’s first real-world test in an urban setting, following earlier demos at the French Open and in Valence, France. Renault is also trialling it at Zurich airport.

While the route is limited for now, it marks a big step in Europe’s push towards driverless public transport.

The bus operates slowly for safety, with

real-time scanning to detect traffic and pedestrians - no human backup needed.

City officials say the test is part of a broader goal to explore smarter, greener transport solutions.

Autonomous buses won’t replace traditional routes just yet, but if all goes well, they could become a familiar sight on Europe’s roads.

Driverless test bus Rain

MOTORISTS warned as DGT crac ks down on rainy day driving sins. A rainy day behind the wheel could leave you drenched… in fines.

And we’re not just talking about speeders or mobile phone users. It’s your windscreen wipers, dirty windows and even puddle splashes that could land you in hot water.

Here’s what you need to know: If your windscreen is smeared, streaked, or fogged up to the point it affects your view of the road, the DGT can hit you with an €80 fine. That includes worn-out wipers, which, if found in poor condition, are also punishable. You won’t lose licence points, but it’s a pricey oversight that could be easily avoided with a bit of basic maintenance.

Think it’s funny to fly through a puddle and soak an unsuspecting pedestrian? The law is not amused.

According to Article 46 of the General Traffic Regulations, drivers must reduce speed if there’s a risk of splashing water or gravel onto others. Fail to show restraint and you could be fined up to €200.

If it’s pouring down, the DGT recommends switching on your vehicle’s lights as soon as it starts raining. And if visibility takes a nosedive, use your fog lights.

Inside the car, steamed-up windows can be a nightmare.

Experts recommend regularly cleaning the inside glass to remove grime and grease, which contributes to condensation.

Renault’s driverless minibus is currently being tested on real roads in central Barcelona.

The vehicle was immobilised on the spot.

Redefining the Golden Age of British Sports Cars

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

MARKING 70 years since the debut of MG’s most aerodynamically advanced model, the MGA Factory Edition is Frontline Cars’ lightest and most refined restomod yet. The company says it stays true to the spirit of the original while delivering a modern driving experience, and made its debut at the recent 82nd Goodwood Members’ Meeting.

Weighing just 815 kg, each MGA Factory Edition is powered by a choice of naturally aspirated Duratec engines: a 2.0-litre unit producing 225 bhp or an optional 2.5-litre variant delivering 290 bhp. Each MGA Factory Edition is equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox.

Extending its knowledge and expertise to the MGA, the new Factory Edition’s chassis has been developed entirely in-house. It comes with a limited-slip differential and the classic fly-off handbrake, a nod to the original, has been seamlessly integrated with modern braking technolo-

gy. Adjustable electronic power steering adds everyday usability without compromising feel, too.

While the modern drivetrain and engineering features are at the heart, the MGA Factory Edition is faithful in appearance while featuring subtle, contemporary enhancements that distinguish it from its Fifties predecessor. Thoughtful exterior touches include crystal-clear LED headlights, which eliminate the traditional sidelights for a cleaner, more modern front fascia. Each lamp is etched with a bespoke Frontline

logo, serving as a discreet signature of its bespoke, handcrafted origin. There’s also a Frontline badge on the bonnet, a first for the brand in its 30+-year history, to identify the MGA.

Available in both roadster and coupé form, every Frontline Cars MGA Factory Edition is built from a fully restored body, ensuring each car is finished to the highest standard. Using its customer configuration room, which is at the heart of Frontline’s Abingdon-based HQ (or remote meetings can be arranged), which sits alongside the

tomise every aspect of their dream MGA. The possibilities in paint hues, finish and interior materials are endless, creating an experience akin to selecting a hand-made suit in Savile Row.

Following its Goodwood Members’ Meeting debut the MGA Factory Edition will enter full production at Frontline’s Oxfordshire headquarters in the UK. Optimised for the company’s growing international audience, particularly in the USA and Australia - two regions where the original MGA was most celebrated - both right- and left-hand drive builds are now available to order. First customer deliveries are expected from summer 2026. Frontline Cars was founded in 1991 with a remit to enhance the driving experience of classic MG cars and is based in Oxfordshire in the UK.