Dep. Legal MA-74-2004 - ISSN 2488-1562
Costa del Sol I No. 2145 I 13 - 19 August 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Malaga’s biggest party MALAGA CITY’S grandest celebration of the year begins on Friday, August 14, ahead of its official start on Saturday, August 15. The Feria de Malaga runs until Saturday, August 22, offering an energetic week of traditional music, dancing, food, horses, flamenco, and late nights across the city. For local residents and international visitors across the province, this annual festival represents a proud demonstration of regional identity, passed down through generations. Friday night opens with the Historic Parade leaving Plaza de la Merced at 8pm, featuring more than 200 people in period costume recreating the city’s past. Celebrations move to the port later in the evening, where a drone light show at 11.50pm precedes the traditional midnight pyromusical fireworks display by the waterfront. On Saturday, August 15, carriages, horses, and pilgrims gather at Paseo del Parque for the traditional pilgrimage to the Basilica Sanctuary of Santa Maria de la Victoria, culminating in a floral offering to the city’s patron saint. During the day, festivities focus on the Historic Centre. Calle Larios hosts traditional verdiales folk music, while surrounding city squares feature live performances. Flamenco artists will perform at venues including Peña Juan Breva. For families, Plaza de la Merced
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City prepares for eight days of fire, flamenco and fiesta
Malaga celebrates.
hosts the Magic Fair, offering workshops, puppets, theatre, games, and magic shows for younger visitors. At night, activity shifts to the Real del Cortijo de Torres, home to fairground rides, equestrian displays, food tents, and marquees playing copla, flamenco, and modern music. The Municipal Auditorium will host major concerts throughout the week, including a free gala on Wednesday, August 19, featuring Hoffman and Nancys Rubias. Wednesday is a local public holiday commemorating the entry of the Catholic Monarchs into Malaga in 1487, with historical re-enactments taking place across the city centre. Visitors are strongly advised to use public transport due to heavy road congestion, traffic restrictions, and limited parking spaces around the main fairground. Special bus services, the Metro Malaga, and local suburban rail lines will run extended schedules throughout the event. During the 2025 festival, local buses recorded over 1.5 million passenger journeys, demonstrating the immense reliance on public transit during the festivities. The Feria de Malaga remains a central event in Andalucia’s cultural calendar, bringing together locals and foreign residents to celebrate rich regional heritage, distinct local gastronomy, and authentic community spirit.
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HOLLYWOOD star Antonio Banderas marked his 66th birthday at the 17th Starlite Occident Gala, held under the stars in Marbella’s historic Nagueles quarry on Sunday, August 9. The evening fused a 1970s hippy theme
with a serious charitable mission, dressing guests in ‘Peace & Love’ attire amid floral garlands and retro anthems. Banderas, who has described himself as a “late hippy,” struck a reflective tone. “Peace and Dep. Legal MA-74-2004 - ISSN 2488-1562
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love is now a slogan that unfortunately makes very little sense in the world we are living in,” he said, signalling a shift from glamour to purpose. In a spontaneous move, Banderas donated the very shirt he was wearing, painted by his own hand, to the charity auction, helping lift the night’s fundraising total. In a night full of surprises, guests were treated to an impromptu
performance of ‘Fly me to the moon’ by Bertín Osborne and the one and only Michael Bublé. Proceeds support the Starlite Foundation’s work with Ninos en Alegria, Cudeca (palliative cancer care) and Lagrimas y Favores, Banderas’s own foundation that backs students at the University of Malaga among other causes. Now in its 17th year, the gala has raised more than €3 million for cha-
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Affiliated to
Money raised goes towards helping dogs.
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Birthday blended with giving
Hippy themed Starlite Gala 2026.
rities. This edition added a special drive to aid reconstruction in Venezuela after recent earthquakes, working
with CAF and Venezuela Sin Límites. For Banderas, using fame to gather people and funds is “almost an obligation.”
50 prizes, one winner FUNDACION CANYA SOS has again launched its Grand Charity Raffle with a huge prize to be won. Only one number wins, but that single winner takes home all 50 prizes on offer, from spa
days and restaurant dinners to whale-watching trips and gift cards, donated by local businesses. The winning number will match the last three digits of the official ONCE lottery coupon drawn on Sunday, September 20, the same day the foundation holds its first Canya Festival. Behind the prizes lies an urgent appeal. Rescue teams describe this as one of the toughest summers on record, with rising numbers of sick, injured or abandoned dogs arriving at the shelter. Eight puppies from Jimena were recently found tied up inside boxes and exposed to extreme heat, while 11 dogs arrived in a single day. More than 850 dogs have passed through the charity’s care this year, with over 200 currently relying on foster homes and the shelter. Tickets are available at outlets across the region, including Los Barrios, Algeciras, Tarifa, Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro and Puerto de la Duquesa, or remotely via Bizum, Revolut or PayPal. Every euro raised funds vet bills, vaccinations and surgeries for rescued dogs awaiting new homes.
NEWS
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13 - 19 August 2026
Inheritance tax change
Calendar clash Bank holiday day claims
The impact will depend on individual circumstances.
ries receive. Moving permanently to Spain does not automatically remove someone from UK inheritance tax rules. The UK considers factors including long-term tax residency, meaning some British expatriates may still have financial links to Britain despite living abroad for years. Chris Ball, CEO and an expatriate financial planning specialist, warned that British residents in Spain should review their situation before the new rules take effect. The impact will depend on indivi-
dual circumstances, including how long someone lived in the UK, when they moved abroad, the size of their pension and other assets they hold. Some pension holders may consider withdrawing funds or gifting money before 2027, but experts warn against making decisions without professional advice due to the complex tax rules between Spain and the UK. For many expatriate families, the issue is not retirement income, but what happens to decades of savings left behind.
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Photo credit: Iryna Dzvonkovska/Shutterstock
SHIFTING RULES ACROSS BORDERS
THOUSANDS of British nationals living in Spain could face unexpected inheritance tax consequences after a major UK pension rule change comes into force in 2027. From April 6 next year, certain UKheld pensions will be brought into the inheritance tax system, meaning savings that many retirees believed could pass to loved ones outside the tax rules may be assessed differently after their death. The change does not affect the value of pensions during a person’s lifetime, but it could alter how much beneficia-
Check specific workplace agreements.
WORKERS in Spain could have a stronger claim to an extra day off when Assumption Day falls on a Saturday this year. Observed on Saturday, August 15, Assumption Day is a national public holiday across Spain. Because many employees already have Saturdays off, questions have been raised about whether they should lose the benefit of the holiday when it coincides with their normal weekly rest day. Fresh attention has followed a recent National Court ruling linked to a dispute in the customer service sector. Judges found that a public holiday should not automatically be absorbed into a worker’s regular rest period. Under that interpretation, some employees may be entitled to a compensatory day off instead. Workers whose schedules already include Saturdays as a non-working day are among those most likely to be affected. Although the case relates to a specific sector, employment specialists believe its reasoning could influence disputes in other industries where collective agreements contain similar provisions. Any entitlement will depend on the terms of individual agreements and workplace arrangements, meaning an additional day off is not guaranteed for everyone. Guidance reported by El País suggests that replacement leave should generally be taken within 14 calendar days of the holiday, although exceptions may apply in cases such as illness or authorised absence. Credit: Dragon Images - Shutterstock
Community access BORDERS, BRICKS, AND BOUNDARIES PROPERTY owners in Spain face severe financial and legal penalties if they refuse access to maintenance workers conducting repairs on shared infrastructure. Under Article 9.1 of Spain’s Horizontal Property Law, known as Ley de Propiedad Horizontal, property owners must permit entry to their homes or gardens for essential work on communal services. This obligation applies to flats, detached houses, and urbanisations where shared utilities, such as water pipes or drainage networks, cross private land. Recent court decisions demonstrate that judges have little patience for uncooperative residents. In Orihuela we recently heard from a Euro Weekly reader about an owner who refused entry to a plumber after bougainvillaea roots damaged
shared pipes beneath his garden, causing a neighbour’s water bills to balloon. Courts eventually forced access, leaving the stubborn owner liable for legal costs, compensation, and his own garden repairs. In another case, an elderly resident attempted to block workers from lifting a shower tray to fix a communal leak. The court ruled that lacking minor details does not grant the right to delay critical repairs. While owners can request details regarding work schedules and disruption, they cannot legally block access once necessity is proven. Refusing entry does not protect the home. Instead, it converts routine maintenance into a costly legal dispute. Early cooperation remains the best way to avoid heavy court fees and property damage.
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What if the leak is from your house in Spain?
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LOCAL NEWS
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New photo spots A GOOD holiday photograph brings back more than just a view. Manilva and Ojen have each added a new spot to capture on camera. At Ojen’s village entrance, a handcrafted wooden bench now towers over visitors. It stands 2.40 metres tall and four metres wide, with a small staircase for climbing up. The bench joins the ‘Ruta de los Bancos Gigantes’ (Giant Benches Route), a trail of oversized benches New giant bench in Ojen. found across the region. Its scale makes for striking photocorated with shells and flowers, offers a graphs. Children appear tiny beside it, frame-shaped backdrop that captures the while adults can pose for dramatic shots sea and open sky. with the whitewashed village and counBetween them, the two towns now tryside behind them. Flowerbeds and offer very different photo opportunities: further landscaping are planned for the one a dramatic coastal frame, the other a viewpoint in the coming weeks. playful, oversized bench with village and In Manilva, a new photocall has been countryside views. Together, they give installed under the name ‘Donde el mar visitors fresh reasons to pause, and two toca el cielo’ (“Where the sea touches the new stops worth adding to any Costa del sky”). The marine-themed structure, deSol itinerary. Credit:OjenTH/FB
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Salón Varietés opens auditions for new season.
Salón Varietés audition call FUENGIROLA’S Salón Varietés Theatre is holding auditions for its upcoming autumn production of Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery, The Hollow. Auditions will take place on Sunday, September 6, from 12pm to 3pm at the theatre. Director Lynn Halliday is seeking a cast of 12 actors for the show, which runs from Wednesday, November 4, to Sunday, November 8. Anyone interested in performing can audition, regardless of previous acting experien-
ce. Aspiring cast members should register beforehand with the director via WhatsApp on +34 600 012 085 to receive an allocated audition time slot. Copies of audition pieces are also available in advance. Adapted by Christie from her 1946 novel, The Hollow centres on a fatal weekend gathering at an English country estate that descends into suspicion following a shooting beside a swimming pool. Roles include the aristocratic Henrietta Angkatell, bookish Edward
Angkatell, Inspector Colquhoun, and the vague Lady Angkatell. Operating as a non-profit cultural association, the English-language venue recently celebrated 40 years of community theatre on the Costa del Sol. Annual Christie plays have become a firm fixture at the theatre, following past stagings of The Mousetrap and Murder on the Nile. This production provides a clear opportunity for local performers to take to the stage as the venue prepares for its new season.
Surprise visitor
A YOUNG flamingo has been brought to safety after being discovered on a Costa del Sol beach. Local beach department staff in Benalmadena rescued the bird on Tuesday, August 11, after it was spotted on Playa Bonita. Environmental officers from the Junta de
Andalucia took charge of the chick to oversee its recovery. Few details have been released regarding how the bird arrived on the coastline, nor whether it was injured, separated from adult birds, or struggling to fly. Trained environmental staff transferred
the chick to Andalucia’s regional wildlife recovery network, which treats sick, injured, and weakened protected animals before returning them to the wild. Flamingos are usually found at the Reserva Natural Laguna de Fuente de Piedra in Malaga province, one of the most important breeding sites for the species in the western Mediterranean. Regional conservation programmes monitor and ring young flamingos at the reserve, including a 2025 operation in which roughly 600 chicks were ringed by specialists and volunteers. The presence of a chick on a public beach was an unusual sight for local visitors. Benalmadena Town Hall thanked all those involved in assisting the bird and protecting local fauna. Anyone who encounters a distressed wild animal should avoid handling it, allowing trained officers to assess the situation safely.
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Horse and carriage debate Fortress jewellers Credit: FsQ Credit: Google
A HORSE-DRAWN carriage overturned in central Fuengirola, injuring the driver and a motorcyclist after the animal reportedly bolted during an extreme heatwave. Two female tourists were also caught up in the crash, which occurred at 3.30pm on Wednesday, August 5, near Plaza de la Constitucion during an orange weather warning with temperatures nearing 40°C. The horse escaped unhurt, but the driver required hospital treatment for head and ankle injuries. The accident has reignited a fierce debate across the Costa del Sol regarding urban carriage rides. Animal welfare campaigners, including political party PACMA and local organisation AIMS, are demanding an immediate end to the practice. They argue that heavy traffic, noise, and hot asphalt cause severe stress to horses, urging local councils to replace carriages with humane, modern
Scene after horse and carriage topple in Fuengirola.
alternatives such as electric tuk-tuks. Conversely, carriage operators defend the trade as an essential part of Andalucian heritage and a key source of income for local families. Owners maintain that horses receive good care and argue that strict regulations, such as veterinary checks, shift limits, and temperature caps
should be enforced rather than total bans. While Malaga banned carriage rides last autumn, towns like Marbella have introduced tighter welfare rules. Following this latest event, Fuengirola council faces increasing pressure to evaluate safety rules and determine if horse-drawn tours still have a place in modern Spanish towns.
PROMINENT Marbella jeweller Gómez & Molina has installed a €400,000 high-tech security system to combat decades of targeted raids. The family-owned business in Spain’s luxury coastal resort has fitted its shop with reinforced glass containing movement, sound, thermal, and inertia sensors powered by artificial intelligence. The new protection also features a heavy-duty barrier that resembles a stone wall but is constructed from a specialised Canadian aluminium alloy designed to stop ram-raid attacks. The investment follows a long history of high-value robberies at the boutique. In May 2002, four thieves rammed a stolen van into the store, ripped out a 100-kilogram armoured door, and escaped with more than €1 million in jewellery within
Fed up of ram-raiders.
30 seconds. In August 2001, another gang used building machetes to smash shop windows and disarm a guard, fleeing with luxury watches and items valued at 240 million pesetas, though police later recovered most of the goods. Organised criminal networks frequently target Marbella and nearby Puerto Banus for high-value watches and fine jewellery. Miguel Gómez Molina, a second-generation member of the founding family, stated that the cutting-edge technology replaces traditional window bars with modern defensive engineering. The upgrade provides an advanced safeguard to protect the historic firm against sophisticated gangs operating along the Costa del Sol.
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LOCAL NEWS
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Big fish comes ashore Credit: FsQ FB
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It does look like a shark.
BEACHGOERS at Playa del Ancon in Marbella were startled when a large fish swam within metres of the shoreline on Saturday, August 8. Video footage shared online showed the creature moving through shallow water at the popular Costa del Sol resort, leading some onlookers to suspect a shark was in the shallows. Local broadcaster 101TV reported that the creature was a large fish, likely a tuna. However, authorities have not issued an official identification, and neither the local town hall nor lifeguard services have confirmed the exact species or size. There were no reports of injuries, and swimmers were not ordered out of the water. The beach remained open fo-
llowing the sighting. While bluefin tuna regularly migrate through Mediterranean waters, large fish rarely come so close to crowded beaches. Marbella has seen similar incidents before. On a previous occasion, firefighters had to assist a stranded moonfish back into deeper water off Playa de la Bajadilla. The brief visit caused no danger to the public, offering holidaymakers an unexpected spectacle during the busy summer holiday season. Local waters support diverse marine life, but encounters of this nature right at the water’s edge remain rare. The incident concluded without disruption, leaving bathers with a memorable story from their day at the seaside.
Don’t climb on the lions VISITORS to Malaga Port are being warned against a costly holiday mistake: climbing on the harbour’s new bronze lion sculptures. The two lions, guarding the port entrance, quickly became a favourite photo spot after their installation. Tourists routinely lifted children onto the statues’ backs or scrambled up themselves for pictures. The lions form part of Las Columnas del Mar (Columns of the Sea), a sculpture collection by international artist Gines Serran-Pagan valued at around €3 million. Port authorities stepped in after repeated handling began to wear on the bronze surface. Bilingual signs, in English and Spanish, now stand beside the sculptures showing a crossed-out climbing figure. Sitting, leaning or climbing on any part of
Credit: the_lost_fedora/IG
No climbing on the lions.
the artwork is strictly forbidden. Rather than a fixed fine, the port’s notice spells out the big risk. Anyone causing damage while climbing bears full financial and legal responsibility, or their parent or guardian does if they’re a minor. Given the cost of restoring bronze sculptures of this scale, that could mean a
hefty specialist repair bill rather than a small penalty. Protecting the city’s landmarks as visitor numbers grow, is a priority. At Malaga Cathedral’s Patio de los Naranjos, metal fencing was recently added around historic chains after people sitting on them caused stone pillars to shift.
LOCAL NEWS
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Credit: BenalmadenaTH/FB
Bodybuilders battle
Bodybuilders hit Benalmadena.
WARRIORS clad in fur and leather descended on Benalmadena, flexing, posing and competing for trophies at the Barbarian Muscle Festival. Saturday, August 8, saw bodybuilders and fitness competitors travel from across the continent to Plaza de la Mezquita for the popular contest. Competitors donned barbarian-style costumes across nine categories. Women competed in Bikini First Timers, Bikini Open and Wellness Open. Men battled it out in Men’s Physique First Timers, Bodybuilding First Timers, Men’s Physique Open, Classic Bodybuilding Open, Bodybuilding Master Open and Bodybuilding Open. Crowds packed the square to watch, with local councillors Alejandro Carretero and
Maria Luisa Robles among them. Category winners received replica Conan-style swords, while the best poser took home a trophy modelled on Thor’s hammer. This year’s event doubled as an official Pro Qualifier for the PCA Physical Culture Association, giving winners a genuine step towards professional status. GARVE Health Management and Etenon Fitness sponsored the festival. Competitors will get another chance to impress later this month, with Madrid hosting the next round of competition. Council representatives said events like this help put Benalmadena on the map for visitors and competitors alike. The town hall thanked “the organisation, participants and everyone who enjoyed this sporting day.”
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Slashed tyre scam A BRITISH family holidaying near Marbella fell victim to a summer tyre scam, raising concerns among Costa del Sol residents and visitors. Tracy and her family suffered a flat tyre outside Marbella Beach Club. As her husband attempted to change it, a man in a high-visibility jacket offered assistance. Moments later, an accomplice dropped banknotes on the ground to distract Tracy. When she returned to the vehicle, her handbag containing passports, bank cards, and personal items had been stolen, and the helpful stranger had vanished. Local Police confirm such distraction thefts increase during the summer season across Marbella, Estepona, Torremolinos, and Mijas.
Credit: Google + victim
Tyres slashed delaying tactic scam.
Gangs deliberately sabotage car tyres or deflate them before posing as good Samaritans, allowing accomplices to steal unattended items from open vehicles. Victims are typically short-term visitors targeted while relaxed on holiday. Authorities advise motorists to remain cautious when offered unexpected help following a sudden breakdown. Drivers should keep vehicles locked, hold
valuables close, and contact official roadside assistance services rather than accepting aid from strangers. Incidents should be reported immediately to Local Police via emergency numbers or the AlertCops application to assist investigation efforts. While Spain remains generally safe, community vigilance and rapid reporting are vital to stopping seasonal criminal networks operating across the region.
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The dispute has drawn national attention after a report by Spain’s public broadcaster RTVE showed residents holding signs and banners, calling for change. Supporters of the campaign argue that rest is “fundamental to life” and should not be negotiable. Despite repeated complaints and some council action, neighbours say no permanent fix has been delivered. They are now demanding immediate, effective sounproofing of the hotel’s machinery, strict enforcement of existing noise rules by Torremolinos Town Hall and a definitive end to the alleged pollution. The group warns it is prepared to pursue administrative, civil and even criminal legal action if necessary. Credit: wjarek / Shutterstock.com
FED-UP residents near Torremolinos’s Melia Costa del Sol hotel say years of noise from its air‑conditioning, refrigeration and cooling systems have turned life at home into an “acoustic nightmare.” In a public statement posted on Facebook, neighbours accuse the hotel and local authorities of failing to end a problem that they say operates around the clock. Residents claim official acoustic measurements repeatedly show night-time levels of 59 decibels, more than 11 decibels above the 48‑decibel limit for residential zones. They say the constant hum has caused chronic insomnia, stress, anxiety and fatigue, forcing many to rely on earplugs, makeshift soundproofing and medication.
Melia Hotel accused of noise pollution.
Credit: Puerto de Sotogrande
Hotel noise fury
Sotogrande’s free Vaporetto taxi rides.
Vaporetto relaunches VISITORS to Puerto Sotogrande can travel around the marina for free this summer on the popular water taxi service, known locally as the Vaporetto. The shuttle boat operates until Sunday, August 30, connecting key locations across the port complex in Cadiz without costing passengers anything. Skipper Mark Houlbourne has returned to steer passengers daily between five strategic stops: the Control Tower, opposite the KE Soto-
grande restaurant, Ribera del Marlin, Real Club Maritimo Sotogrande, and the Sailing School on the outer breakwater. The free shuttle allows visitors to reach local shops, dining spots, and children’s sailing lessons without walking around the harbour on foot. The service runs continuously from 10am to 3pm and 4pm to 6pm, Tuesday to Sunday, with Mondays reserved as rest days for the crew. Port management has directly linked the boat
shuttle to United Nations sustainable development goals, focusing on sustainable communities, economic growth, and partnerships. By reducing car journeys around the port area, the service lowers local vehicle exhaust emissions and eases traffic congestion during peak months. Whether travelling over for lunch or enjoying a trip across the harbour, the Vaporetto remains a key summer perk for anyone in the San Roque district.
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LOCAL NEWS
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Risky boars of Mijas Credit: FsQ
Family offers €50,000
Have you seen these people?
A FAMILY in Cancelada, Estepona, has offered a €50,000 reward following a high-value burglary at their home on Tuesday, July 9. Intruders stole gold and diamond jewellery, designer handbags, clothing, and a house key. The victims report that the offenders returned on Wednesday, July 31, and Sunday, August 4, seemingly to check if the stolen key worked. Family members say cars have repeatedly slowed near the property, leaving the household, including young children, terrified and feeling constantly monitored. One relative expressed that the family simply cannot continue living in fear and wants the perpetrators identified.
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The incident comes as summer crowds inflate populations across the Costa del Sol, increasing opportunities for opportunistic offences despite official Ministry of the Interior statistics showing overall falls in home break-ins across Malaga province. While seasonal crime typically centres on vacant holiday properties and busy tourist zones, this repeated targeting of an occupied home has left the residents desperate for answers. Anyone with information regarding unusual activity in Cancelada on these dates is asked to contact police or email tipsa pain@outlook.com. The family hopes the substantial reward will encourage witnesses to step forward and end their ordeal.
LOCALS filmed a group of wild boars racing along the dry verge of the A-7 motorway in Mijas Costa on Thursday, August 6. Footage captured from the pedestrian footbridge near La Vida Loca bar, opposite the Mijas nudist beach at Playa Marina, shows the animals moving freely with no protective fencing separating them from fast-moving traffic. A resident posted the clip online and tagged Mijas Town Hall, calling for immediate barriers before a serious accident occurs. In this stretch of Mijas Costa, the A-7 sits directly next to residential areas, service roads, and the Bluecare Partners veterinary hospital. Boars have ventured down from the hills for years to forage from bins, gardens, and leftovers. Without a protective boundary, the animals can step straight
Credit: FsQ FB
Boars attempting to cross busy A-7 motorway in Mijas.
onto the carriageway. Drivers already contend with narrow, twisting lanes and heavy traffic on this section of the road. A collision with a heavy boar could kill the animal and send vehicles out of control, placing multiple road users at extreme risk. Council regulations forbid leaving food or water for wild animals,
with police issuing fines between €250 and €750. However, persistent feeding continues to lure the animals away from their natural habitat. Fencing the motorway falls under the jurisdiction of the Spanish Ministry of Transport, leaving residents and motorists calling for quick joint action between local and national authorities.
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vers, pedestrians and offshore vessels. While previous severe episodes have occasionally disrupted local airport operations and required extra caution on major roads, the current event remains typical for the middle of August. Interior regions of Malaga province remain clear and warm, creating a distinct contrast with the fog-bound coast. Taró is a regular feature of the local maritime climate, returning whenever sea and air temperatures align. Following similar occurrences in recent days, this latest mist serves as a clear reminder of the region’s surprising summer weather patterns. Beachgoers and those using coastal paths are advised to stay aware of the changing conditions. Credit: Ana Mula FB
THOSE residing along the Costa del Sol woke to thick sea fog on Saturday, August 8, as a white mist wrapped beaches and promenades across the region. Spain’s official weather agency, Aemet, issued notices of reduced visibility over Malaga coastal waters through until 8pm. Known locally as taró, this advection fog forms when warm, humid air moves across the cooler surface of the Alboran Sea, causing moisture to condense into low clouds. Shoreward winds then push these clouds inland. Although high summer temperatures continue, the familiar shoreline vanishes within minutes, altering the coastal view before lifting when wind conditions change. The weather phenomenon affects dri-
Taró fog rolls over Costa del Sol.
Credit:Fountain Icecream Bar/FB
Fog blankets coast
Volunteers helped the early operation.
Ringing season success FUENTE DE PIEDRA Nature Reserve in Malaga marked the 40th anniversary of its flamingo ringing programme by tagging 600 greater flamingo chicks, the third-best result since the tradition began in 1986. More than 400 volunteers, coordinated by the Andalucian regional government, completed the operation in around four hours. Andalucia’s environment chief, Fina Martinez, thanked everyone involved, calling the event proof that conservation
depends on cooperation between scientists, officials and local people. Mayor Siro Pachon joined technicians from the regional environment agency and vets from Cordoba Zoo, who were on hand to treat any birds injured during capture. More than 21,000 chicks have been ringed since 1986, out of roughly 270,000 flamingos born at the lagoon since monitoring started in 1984. Each ring carries a code readable from a distance, letting researchers track indivi-
dual birds without recapturing them. Over 70 per cent of ringed birds have been spotted at least once, adding up to more than 167,000 sightings across 23 countries, from Guinea-Bissau to Cyprus. Heavy rainfall drove this year’s bumper breeding season. The 2025/26 hydrological year brought 663 litres per square metre, the fourth-highest total in 50 years, pushing the lagoon to a peak depth of 101cm in March. As a result, 35,177 breeding pairs nested at the site.
LOCAL NEWS
Shade at last MIJAS’S Gran Parque is finally getting some much-needed shade, though not every resident is convinced. Workers have begun fitting shade structures above the swings and slides in the children’s play areas, the first stage of a project set to cover 6,000 square metres of the 270,000 square metre park. Once finished, canopies will run along the central boulevard, through the plazas and over the amphitheatre. Mijas mayor Ana Mata recently toured the site with councillor for parks and gardens Daniel Gómez to check on progress. Two of six planned toilet blocks, both with universal accessibility, have also just been completed. Parking and drought-tolerant planting are next on the
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Hunt for a new vessel Credit:EsteponaTH/FB
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CreditMijasTH/FB
The current boat in need of an upgrade.
New shade in progress.
agenda, Mata said. Reaction has been mixed. One resident said they were longing to see the park “full of children and families doing sport,” picturing concerts and events filling the space. Another joked the canopies might “actually be up by the end of September.” Others were less convinced. “Wouldn’t it be better to plant trees?”
MARBELLA Local Police officers have removed more than 150 abandoned cars from public roads over the past two months. The crackdown focuses primarily on industrial estates and areas where neglected vehicles block parking spaces for daily drivers. A vehicle is classified as abandoned if it remains unmoved for over a month, lacks registration plates, or has damage preventing normal operation. Officers first attach
asked one sceptic, arguing mature trees would give better shade than fabric that overheats in summer. Another predicted the canopies wouldn’t survive their first storm. With over 2,900 trees, a boating lake and an amphitheatre seating 1,500, the park should finally get the use it deserves once the shade goes up.
ESTEPONA Town Hall has officially launched a public tender to replace the weathered wooden fishing boat currently sitting on the Avenida Puerta del Mar roundabout. Local council officials have allocated a total budget of €68,970, including VAT, to source, restore, and permanently display a traditional Mediterranean purse-seine vessel. Bidding for the contract closes on August 24. According to technical requirements, the chosen boat must measure between 11 and 13 metres in length and retain its original wheelhouse structure. The winning contractor must treat the hull against rust and weather corrosion, apply protective paint, and display the vessel’s original historical name. Historical Heritage Councillor Daniel García stated that the project
Dusty cars towed a red warning sticker to the windscreen, giving the owner one month to resolve the issue. If ignored, a green sticker follows, granting a final five-day grace period before a municipal crane hauls the motor away to the town depot. Many holidaymakers and expatriates
leave cars parked on kerbs before travelling home for the summer. Dust-covered vehicles left unattended often trigger police action. Leaving a motor on public roads is not free storage; owners face substantial costs. Fines begin at €1,000, on top of towing fees exceeding €100 and compounding daily
aims to value local seafaring traditions. The installation will join a lighthouse replica and ship propeller along the avenue to form an open-air maritime exhibition. However, the council’s announcement sparked mixed reactions among town residents. Some locals noted that the existing roundabout boat holds deep sentimental value, having originally belonged to a prominent local fishing family. Other taxpayers criticised the spending, arguing that consistent maintenance could have saved the original vessel. Additional residents suggested that municipal funds would be better spent on local cemetery upkeep or planting trees to combat urban heat. Despite the community debate, the new landmark will soon anchor the busy junction.
storage charges. Unclaimed cars are ultimately sent for scrapping. Police advise residents and long-term visitors heading abroad to arrange private off-street parking. Unwanted vehicles should be taken to authorised scrapyards to avoid ongoing road tax and penalties. Members of the public can report suspected abandoned cars directly to Marbella police on 952 899 900.
LOCAL NEWS
euroweeklynews.com Credit: CGN089 - Shutterstock
14 13 - 19 August 2026
All too easy to get dehydrated.
Dehydration is so easy LONG-TERM Costa del Sol resident Steve is urging expatriates and holidaymakers to take the threat of dehydration seriously as summer temperatures rise. Hundreds of visitors fall ill every year on the southern coast of Spain, often mistaking early warning signs for routine holiday fatigue. Dehydration frequently manifests as head or stomach aches within a few days of arrival. Due to low atmospheric humidity, people lose essential fluids rapidly without noticing.
Reaching for alcoholic or caffeinated beverages such as beer or tea compounds the problem, accelerating fluid loss rather than relieving it. Monitoring urine colour provides a simple way to track hydration levels. Pale yellow, straw-like urine indicates healthy hydration, whereas dark yellow or amber shades signal an urgent need for water. While mild cases typically improve with rest and fluid intake, the condition can escalate quickly if ignored.
Older people face the highest risk, as their sense of thirst often diminishes with age. If an older person displays signs of confusion or faintness, immediate medical attention is necessary. To stay safe during the hottest period of the year, residents and guests should drink water steadily throughout the day rather than waiting until they feel thirsty. Health advisers also recommend seeking shade between noon and 5pm to avoid peak heat exposure.
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
16 13 - 19 August 2026 ASK THE OFFICER
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“I nearly missed my ship on embarkation day and spent the last two days of my cruise worrying about my flight home. What am I doing wrong?”
SARA ROMERA: THE AUTHOR OF INSIDE THE FLOATING CITY AND THE DISCERNING VOYAGER.
THE calmest passengers I’ve ever watched start their cruise the same unremarkable way: sleep on land the night before, a hot shower, coffee in a real cup, suitcase by the door. No scrambling, no sprinting through a terminal, no white-knuckle taxi ride to the pier. They arrive the day before embarkation, and it makes everything that follows easier. Rather than indulgence, it’s good seamanship. It’s how crew travel. If the cruise line builds that buffer for its own people, build one for yourself. It gives a delayed bag time to catch up. A missed connection becomes a shrug rather than a ruin. Book the hotel, wander out for dinner if you have the energy, and if you don’t, shower and sleep. Either way, you step on board as a guest, not a casualty of the morning. If same-day arrival is truly unavoidable, know what you’re asking of your
Credit: Krakenimages.com/Shutterstock.
The answer is buffers, and the crew never skip them.
Don’t miss embarkation.
luck. Book a nonstop flight. Land by 10.30am at the latest. Pack all medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and swimwear in your carry-on and accept that your checked bag may not find you for days. Remember the ship’s
check-in closes well before sail-away. The return journey catches more people out than the outbound. Here is the truth from the operations side: an itinerary that reads “arrival 06.00” does not mean you can walk off at 06.01.
First the ship must be cleared, border officers come on board, manifests are reviewed, and only when the approval stamp lands does the gangway light flip from red to green. Union rules put border officers and longshoremen on a 7.00am start. Then come the breakfast lines, the elevators, the luggage halls, and the taxis that appear and vanish before you reach the front of the queue. Anything before 4.00pm for your flight home is asking for trouble, even on a direct route. If you can, give yourself one more night at the port. Walk the waterfront. Eat something good. Fly tomorrow. You planned this trip carefully. Don’t let the edges undo it. Vega Mare now writes under her real name, Sara Romera. Sara Romera is the author of Inside the Floating City and The Discerning Voyager.
Have a cruise question? Write to contact@sararomera.com. Selected questions will be featured in upcoming columns.
A 27-YEAR-OLD French national has been arrested in Salamanca after a witness allegedly spotted him attempting to start a fire while firefighters were already tackling several outbreaks nearby. Guardia Civil officers detained
the man near La Samasa, in Ledesma, where more than a dozen firefighting resources had been deployed. According to the reported account, the witness saw the man crouching beside the SA-305 and appa-
rently trying to ignite another fire. Officers attended the location and arrested him while the firefighting operation was still under way. Authorities reportedly found him carrying petrol and five lighters. The blaze near the road was brought under control at around 8pm, but investigators are now examining whether the suspect was responsible for that fire or any of the other outbreaks reported in the surrounding area. The man appeared before a judge and was placed in provisional custody. His detention does not amount to a conviction, and investigators must establish whether there is sufficient evidence connecting him to any deliberate ignition. Authorities are examining the witness statement, materials recovered by officers and evidence from the affected areas. Evidence will determine whether prosecutors can connect the suspect to nearby fires.
Ruined holidays Photo credit: neme_jimenez/shutterstock
Caught red handed
MORE than 400 customers are seeking answers after claiming a travel agency in L’Escala, Girona, failed to provide holidays they had paid for, leaving some families thousands of euros out of pocket. Some customers say they paid more than €9,000 for trips that included flights, hotels and Disneyland Paris visits. The problem often became apparent only when departure dates approached. Families had already paid the agency in full but were still waiting for tickets and other travel documents. Some customers say they paid more than One customer who contacted her €9,000. airline directly was reportedly told she was not the airline’s customer because the booking had been establish how many bookings may be made through the travel agency. affected and work out how much money For parents, the financial uncertain- was paid. ty has been accompanied by a particuIndividual losses reportedly range larly painful emotional impact. Some from thousands of euros to more than holidays had been planned as Christ- €9,000, while the total financial value mas or Three Kings presents, leaving of the disputed bookings has not yet children expecting their long-awaited been established. Disneyland trip while their parents Customers continue seeking answers. scrambled to discover whether the re- The affected families now face the diservations existed. fficult task of recovering their savings Customers have connected through while awaiting the outcome of the insocial media to compare experiences, vestigation.
SPANISH NEWS
Animal trafficking
17
Photo credit: Vaxo/Shutterstock
Madrid showdown awaits
Police have detected increased animal trafficking.
SPAIN’S stretched animal shelters are facing a threat as police warn that puppies are being trafficked into the country for profit, with some allegedly arriving without health controls. The trade can leave buyers with sick animals and adds pressure to a welfare system already receiving hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats each year. Police have detected increased animal trafficking along the AP-7, with puppies reportedly brought from Eastern Europe and sold in Spain for higher prices. Breeds identified include chihuahuas, dachshunds, labradors and golden retrievers. The financial incentive is clear. A dog bought for around €100 can reportedly be sold for as much as €2,000. But authorities warn that bypassing veterinary safeguards can
13 - 19 August 2026
create health risks. A puppy may appear healthy when sold but develop illness after reaching its home, leaving families facing distress and bills. Legal animal transport is possible when safeguards are followed; the concern is when controls are avoided. The warning comes as Fundación Affinity recorded 285,720 dogs and cats entering Spanish shelters during 2025, including 169,268 dogs. The figure includes lost and abandoned animals, highlighting pressure on Spain’s protection network. Authorities say buyers should check documentation, identification and veterinary history. A cheap puppy may seem like a bargain, but its cost can fall on the animal, the family and an already overloaded nationwide shelter system.
SPAIN’S newly crowned world champions will welcome England to Madrid on Sunday, November 15, for a Nations League match that could decide which side reaches the quarter-finals. The game kicks off at 8.45pm at the Metropolitano and brings one of European football’s biggest rivalries back to Spain. England will have no shortage of motivation. Spain beat them 2-1 in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, then returned from this summer’s World Cup as champions after defeating Argentina. No one needs reminding of how England exited this year’s World Cup. The Madrid fixture will be the countries’ second meeting in the group. England first host Spain at Wembley on September 26, before both teams face Croatia
Credit: Orange Pictures / Shutterstock
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Spain beat England 2-1 when the sides last met in the Euro 2024 final.
and Czechia home and way. The top two advance to the quarter-finals, while third place brings a relegation play-off. Tickets for Madrid are expected to go on sale from September through the Spanish federation’s official platform. Spain have yet to lose at the
Metropolitano, where they have scored 11 goals and conceded only once in three senior men’s internationals. After a World Cup staged across North America, Wembley and Madrid offer supporters a much closer chance to see both sides in person.
Give us all a break LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT WHAT on earth is going on with the British police force? They continually gripe about being undermanned and ill equipped. They moan about being so weighed down with work they have been forced to downgrade ‘risk assessment’ of crimes to a ridiculous level and are constantly moaning that they simply ‘can’t cope’ with the latest crime figures. As legitimate as these claims may be, our precious plod does seem to find the time to, dance around maypoles, thread their boots with rainbow laces and appear in a whole host of police reality programmes! Well, whereas laces and prancing about may not be very time consuming, I can assure you reality programs most certainly are. There are SEVEN cop shows running at the moment, from cops in the sky to the most recent, which concerns seizing criminal’s assets. (Scraping the barrel comes
to mind!). Well, I’ve done a number of reality programmes (including a few I would rather forget!) And I can assure you they take forever. Every five minutes you see on the screen can take hours to shoot. The retakes alone can be unbelievably time consuming. How can these ‘overworked’, rushed-off-their-feet officers of the law possibly find the time to be ‘reality stars’? Another thing these shows are inclined to do is eat into the respect the public should hold for its upholders of law and order. Any aura of mystique or invincibility is stripped away by these programmes, which often show the utter contempt a small number of individuals have for the upholders of law and order. With the wide publicity television creates, public order and criminal acts are then copied by other members of toe rag society, who would normally be wary of the unknown outcome their actions could bring. No, I’m sorry but respect for the law is obtained by solving crime and putting away the bad guys, not strutting around like jumped up, ego tripping
American TV robo cops. Let’s all get back to the true reality. The fact that glamourising the police doesn’t do one iota toward rooting out criminals. Posing on telly and signing autographs simply doesn’t hack it. It’s time the powers that be put a complete ban on all cop reality shows. Let’s restrict their TV appearances to announcements of successful conclusions to crime investigations. Now that’s the way to earn respect. I don’t know about you but I am also heartily sick of this entire ‘touchy-feely’ syndrome that seems to have crept into British sport. Even cricket which used to be such a wonderful stiff upper lip occasion now sees batsmen hurrying up to each other and touching fists after a particularly good shot. Doubles at tennis is another example of this ridiculous habit. In fact, they still fist each other when they actually lose a point. All this coupled with the orgasmic grunts just about sums up the whole caboodle of our modern. self-subsidising players. For heaven’s sake, give us all a break. Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
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Madrid Grand Prix Credit: Motorsport Photography F1
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
Madrid’s new Madring circuit will stage its inaugural Formula 1 weekend from September 11 to 13.
AT 3pm on Sunday, September 13, the finish line is due to be crossed at Madrid’s newest sporting attraction. Formula 1 will race at Madring for the first time, bringing the Spanish Grand Prix to a 5.4-kilometre circuit built around IFEMA and Valdebebas. The weekend begins on Friday September 11, with Formula 1 practice at 1.30pm and 5pm. A final practice session follows at 12.30pm on Saturday, before qualifying at 4pm. Formula 2 and Formula 3 will fill much of the space between the main sessions, with their own practice, qualifying and races spread across the weekend. The new circuit mixes permanent sections with public roads and contains 22 corners. Its showpiece is La Monumental, an almost 550-metre banked curve expected to be surrounded by tens of thousands of spectators. Anyone attending should plan around public transport as organisers say there will be no general parking at the circuit. Metro Line 8 stops at Feria de Madrid, while the C1 Cercanías train serves Valdebebas. Before the Grand Prix arrives, Formula 3 cars will test the track on August 24 and 25 as part of its final operational and safety preparations.
Phantom residency appointments PEOPLE trying to renew their residency in Spain thought they had found help online, but instead some paid €67.50 for an appointment that didn’t exist, then transferred the same amount again when told that their first payment had gone astray. The National Police have arrested a man in Barcelona accused of advertising a supposed administrative agency on social media. Conversations then moved to WhatsApp, where applicants allegedly received documents appearing to confirm their residency appointments and bank details for payment. The bookings were eventually discovered to be completely invalid. Police say some victims were also persuaded to pay twice because of invented banking problems. When they demanded their money back, they allegedly re-
Credit: simona pilolla 2 / shutterstock
18 13 - 19 August 2026
The alleged scheme moved from social media to WhatsApp before any money was transferred.
ceived false transfer receipts suggesting that a refund was being processed, in order to delay any complaints. The suspect is accused of fraud and document forgery, and was already wanted under several court orders from around Spain. Police have not said how many people were affected or revealed the total amount
taken. Official immigration appointment slots are free, although a legitimate lawyer or gestor can still charge for their services. Anyone recognising the payment pattern should contact their bank, preserve every message and receipt, and report the incident to police. Spain’s free 017 cybersecurity helpline can also provide advice.
SPANISH NEWS
Feria ride horror Credit: accem / Shutterstock
14, suffered fractures and were taken to Hospital de Vic. Later updates said their injuries were not life-threatening. Three other youngsters were also taken to hospital, while four people were treated at the scene for minor injuries. Ambulances, firefighters and police rushed to the fairground, where the ride was sealed for technical checks and the remaining attractions
19
Jellyfish invasion
The spinning attraction was sealed after nine people were injured in Tona.
A FINAL night at Tona’s summer feria turned frightening when a door opened on a fairground ride while its tilted platform was still spinning. The accident happened shortly before midnight on Tuesday, August 4. Several young riders were reportedly flung from the Disco Show attraction, leaving nine people injured, eight of them children. Two girls, aged 12 and
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were closed. Investigators are now trying to establish why the door opened. Fairground rides are a familiar part of Spain’s summer fiestas, especially for children and teenagers. Nothing reported so far points to a wider safety problem, and accidents of this kind are not commonplace. Even so, some families may find themselves checking the safety bar or closed door
Credit: Instagram/Ivancl_
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MORE than 120 people were stung in a single day on Tuesday, August 4, after an invasion of Portuguese man o’ war forced the temporary closure of several beaches along Spain’s Basque coast. Red flags were raised at San Sebastian’s famous beaches, including La Concha, Ondarreta and Zurriola, after lifeguards spotted large numbers of the venomous marine creatures drifting close to shore. The Portuguese man o’ war, often mistaken for jellyfish but considerably more dangerous, can deliver extreMore than 120 people stung in one day. mely painful stings through its long tentacles, which remain dangerous even after the animal has washed up on the beach. which have carried the floating organisms Most of the injuries reported were treated towards the coastline. by lifeguards and were not considered seAuthorities say sea temperatures of around rious. However, earlier the same week one 24.8C have helped the creatures survive close regular swimmer was taken to hospital after to shore. suffering multiple stings near Getaria, while Beachgoers are being urged not to touch another woman required ambulance treat- Portuguese man o’ war, even if they appear ment after being stung at Zarautz. dead on the sand, as their tentacles can still inExperts believe the sudden influx has been ject venom. Anyone who is stung should leave caused by persistent north-easterly winds the water immediately and seek help from liand unusually warm sea temperatures, feguards or emergency services.
SPANISH LIVING
20 13 - 19 August 2026
Beating the heat
Tourism shopping
Photo credit: Ahmet Misirligul/Shutterstock Photo credit: No-Mad/Shutterstock
AS another spell of intense heat grips Spain, many residents say surviving the summer isn’t about enduring the weather, it’s about changing the way you live. Readers from across the country have shared the small adjustments that help them cope when temperatures soar. For many, the day now starts earlier, with shopping, exercise and household chores finished before the midday sun makes being outdoors uncomfortable. Evenings have become the new time for socialising, while afternoons are increasingly spent indoors. Keeping homes cool is another priority. Closing shutters before the sun reaches the windows, creating airflow with fans and avoiding unnecessary cooking during the hottest part of the day are among the most common strategies. Others have found inventive alternatives to air conditioning, from placing bowls of ice in front of fans to using porta-
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It does not mean tourists have stopped using restaurants.
Keeping homes cool is a priority.
ble cooling devices or sleeping on cooling mattress toppers. Food habits are changing too. Cold soups, chilled fruit and frozen snacks have replaced heavier meals, while many readers say staying hydrated is their biggest priority. Others argue that warm drinks help the body
regulate temperature more effectively than iced beverages. The experiences show that there is no single solution to Spain’s summer heat. Instead, it’s a combination of simple habits that allows people to carry on with daily life until temperatures finally begin to ease.
SPAIN’S tourism industry is attracting record numbers of visitors, but holidaymakers are increasingly changing how they spend their money once they arrive. Travel agencies are reporting a rise in the so-called “supermarket tourist”, with more visitors buying groceries and preparing meals themselves instead of eating out throughout their holidays. The change is particularly noticeable as accommodation, restaurants and activities become more expensive. Families and other travellers are increasingly dividing their budgets carefully, spending on flights, accommodation and experiences while cutting everyday food costs. Apartments and holiday homes with kitchens make self-catering an easier option. It does not mean tourists have stopped using restaurants altogether. Instead, many
are becoming more selective, eating out on some days while preparing breakfast, lunch or dinner themselves on others. For some visitors, buying Spanish ingredients and cooking in their accommodation has also become part of the holiday experience. The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca, are among the destinations where the change is particularly visible. The shift matters because supermarket spending benefits the local economy differently from spending in restaurants, bars and smaller tourism businesses. Spain continues to attract millions of visitors, but arrival numbers alone no longer tell the whole story. Restaurants and other tourism businesses will be watching closely as changing spending habits affect their summer incomes.
FINANCE Ryanair sued
A TOTAL of 262 pilots have sued Ryanair for owed holiday pay. Ryanair often contract pilots through recruitment agencies, and argue independent pilots’ sick or holiday pay isn’t their responsibility. The lawsuit comes after Ryanair’s share price drops 16.52 per cent, as climbing fuel prices and slumping demand affect profits.
Streaming profits
SPOTIFY has recorded a net profit of €545 million in the second quarter of 2026, recovering losses of €86 million recorded in the previous fiscal year. Revenue increased 14 per cent to €4.7 billion, €4.3 billion of which came from paid “premium” subscriptions.
Preloved wedding
SECOND-HAND shopping is becoming increasingly popular, even for weddings. New data from Vinted shows searches for second-hand bridesmaid dresses are up 17 per cent. Many are trying to cut costs by buying pre-loved dresses, otherwise bridesmaids end up spending between £250 to £499 on the special day.
Heat losses
MORE than personal discomfort, frequent heatwaves can have a real effect on a country’s economy. According to Allianz Research, heat waves could reduce Spain’s GDP by 1.4 per cent. The loss is largely due to decreased productivity and increased pressure on infrastructure.
Reservations
INTERNATIONAL residents are expected to have empty stomachs and full wallets this August. Analysis by TheFork predicts tourists will account for 28 per cent of all restaurant reservations throughout the month. Comparatively, national tourism is expected to make up just 4 per cent.
euroweeklynews.com • 13 - 19 August 2026
STAT OF WEEK
Total spending by international tourists visiting Spain in June increased by 4.0 per cent, reaching €13.579 billion. Average daily spending rose by 0.7 per cent to €211, according to INE.
Exports hit all-time high ANDALUCIA has posted a new export record for the first five months of 2026, reaching €19 billion, up 3.8 per cent on the previous year. Malaga province set its own record with a 9.1 per cent increase, giving the Costa del Sol a strong boost to the regional figures. Spain as a whole recorded growth of just 1.3 per cent over the same period, leaving Andalucia well ahead. The region ended the period with a trade surplus of €900 million, while the national balance remained in deficit. Vegetables led exports at €2 billion, rising 15.7 per cent. Mineral fuels and the mining sector also performed strongly, with mining exports surging 80.2 per cent. Aeronautics increased 36.9 per cent to more than €1 billion, highlighting continued strength in high-value industry.
Airbus in Sevilla.
Germany remained the biggest export market at €2.5 billion, up 14.7 per cent. France, Italy and Portugal also recorded healthy growth, while exports to China jumped 64 per cent, opening new opportunities for Andalucian goods. Almeria and Cordoba joined Malaga in setting provincial export records, spreading growth across the region. Although Sevilla still handled the largest export volume, broader growth is creating
Social media sales SOCIAL MEDIA has changed almost every aspect of daily life, including purchasing habits. With the rise of social media came the demise of traditional marketing strategies - billboards, print ads, television adverts. Instead brands reach consumers where they’re at: online. It is estimated that European brands spend €35.5 billion a year on social media advertising, according to IAB Europe’s
Energy battle Credit: Junta
BUSINESS EXTRA
21
AdEx Benchmark Report. And one of their biggest demographics is teenagers and children, who almost use social media as a step-by-step guide on what to buy. Approximately 54 per cent of youths aged 12 to 15 find what they want to buy through social media. Another 24 per cent frequently watch unboxing or product review videos. But how will this marketing strategy, and consequently annual sales, change
opportunities for more businesses to expand. Stronger exports are expected to support jobs in logistics, aviation, food production and engineering. Firm demand across Europe, together with rising exports to China, underlines the appeal of Andalucian products. Officials monitor the figures through Andalucia Trade and the national trade ministry, with the latest results providing further confidence in the regional economy. Credit: Basilico Studio Stock/ Shutterstock
Teenagers use social media to figure out what to buy.
as governments across Europe take steps to limit under-16s social media use? Experts predict toys, fashion and beauty sectors to be the most impacted.
Crop crisis
Tax the banks
Purchase power
THE weekly grocery bill is set to get even more expensive, as farmers across Europe warn of a slump in food production. Extreme heat, wildfires and drought have all impacted the annual harvest, leading the EU to cut harvest predictions by 7 per cent. In Spain, it is expected the cereal crop will drop from 24 million tonnes to less than 18.5 million tonnes. Olive groves have been amongst the hardest hit, once again driving olive oil price rises.
AS Prime Minister Andy Burnham looks to tackle the cost of living crisis, there has been renewed demand to tax UK banks to help fund his agenda. The outcry also comes off the back of the UK’s biggest banks raking in a collective £29.2 billion in profit in the first half of 2026. Campaigners believe a windfall tax on this lucrative banking business could raise £19 billion, which would go towards the government’s October budget.
A BIGGER pay packet does not always mean a better standard of living. Across Europe, purchasing power offers a clearer picture of what minimum wage earners can actually afford once living costs are taken into account. While Luxembourg still tops the rankings for nominal pay, Spain performs far better when adjusted for purchasing power. It sits alongside France, Slovenia and Poland, with minimum wages worth more than 1,500 purchasing power standards (PPS). Findings from Eurostat highlight how lower living costs can boost workers’ spending power, proving that headline salaries alone do not tell the full story.
SPANISH supermarkets have declared war on the energy drink business. Two of Spain’s biggest chains - Carrefour and Mercadona - are taking advantage of the demand to sell their own branded beverages 40 per cent cheaper than Coca-Cola’s Monster, the most popular brand on the market. Energy drinks are big businesses. Annual sales grew 38 per cent in the last four years, reaching €298 million in 2025 with Spaniards buying approximately 105 million litres. However, new age restrictions could cut into profits.
Lease increase LEASING companies in Spain have invested heavily to expand fleets, spending €5.8 billion since January 2026. According to AER data, 235,388 new vehicles have been registered by leasing companies, 10.2 per cent more than in 2025. Strong investment is a positive sign of high demand. In fact, leasing a car is becoming a popular alternative to personal vehicle ownership, accounting for approximately 26.5 per cent of registered vehicles on the road.
Poetry boom THE hype around Christopher Nolan’s newest blockbuster, The Odyssey, has breached the Box Office, helping UK poetry sales reach record highs. After leaving the cinema, many movie-goers are seemingly heading to the bookshop. So far in 2026, poetry sales have increased by 13.3 per cent to £8 million. If momentum continues, sales could reach £17 million by the end of the year. UK print sales for the Odyssey increased by 1,400 per cent after the film’s release.
FINANCE
22 13 - 19 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 10 August
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Closing Prices 10 August
Net
3I Group.....................................2.847,00............2.877,00......... 2.835,00......... 223,21K Admiral Group............................3.943,80............3.962,00......... 3.884,00......... 111,67K Airtel Africa................................. 328,52................332,2............... 325............. 368,69K Anglo American..........................4.005,00............4.018,00......... 3.950,00......... 366,19K Antofagasta................................3.994,00............4.001,00......... 3.931,00......... 175,28K Associated British Foods............2.103,00............2.127,00......... 2.097,00.......... 76,56K AstraZeneca..............................12.012,40..........12.096,00....... 11.898,00........ 536,86K Auto Trader Group Plc................. 518,8.................520,4..............512,6........... 284,25K Aviva............................................ 715,6.................715,8..............706,4........... 817,15K B M European Value Retail........... 234,4...................236................. 232............. 261,71K BAE Systems..............................2.231,00............2.249,00......... 2.201,00.......... 845,3K Barclays....................................... 521,7...................522................514,5.............5,52M Barratt Redrow............................. 318,4.................319,1..............316,1.............3,93M Beazley.......................................1.292,00............1.295,50......... 1.291,00.......... 620,9K Berkeley.....................................3.574,00............3.574,00......... 3.492,00.......... 17,53K BP................................................ 519,6.................526,8..............518,3.............4,01M British American Tobacco..........4.446,00............4.454,00......... 4.341,00......... 258,07K BT Group..................................... 197,9.................200,8............... 197...............3,34M Bunzl..........................................2.860,00............2.860,00......... 2.826,00.......... 80,66K Centrica..........................................153..................154,3..............152,1.............1,74M Coca Cola HBC AG.....................4.992,00............5.000,00......... 4.898,00.......... 65,91K Compass....................................... 32,4..................32,64..............32,19........... 152,76K ConvaTec Group............................233..................233,6..............226,4.............1,84M Croda Intl...................................3.304,00............3.340,00......... 3.276,00.......... 62,81K DCC............................................6.375,00............6.380,00......... 6.370,00.......... 22,38K Diageo........................................1.792,60............1.800,00......... 1.717,50...........2,02M Diploma.....................................7.740,00............7.740,00......... 7.655,00......... 148,28K EasyJet......................................... 667,2...................674...............665,74............6,64M Entain.............................................537....................540................531,8........... 383,06K Experian.....................................2.854,00............2.859,00......... 2.821,00......... 848,45K F&C Invest.....................................344..................344,4..............342,8........... 240,54K Flutter Entertainment..................7.588,00............7.718,00......... 7.536,00...............0 Frasers...........................................811....................825................. 804............... 3,35K Fresnillo.....................................2.889,00............2.913,00......... 2.803,00......... 336,98K Glencore....................................... 560,2................568,55.............558,8.............4,33M GSK plc......................................1.962,50............1.970,50......... 1.931,00...........1,11M HALEON....................................... 372,1.................372,1............... 369...............1,79M Halma.........................................3.832,00............3.832,00......... 3.762,00.......... 66,56K Hikma Pharma...........................1.712,00............1.717,00......... 1.671,00......... 167,56K Hiscox........................................1.833,20............1.838,00......... 1.804,00.......... 215,9K Howden Joinery.............................834..................835,5..............827,5............ 39,22K HSBC.........................................1.535,80............1.536,80......... 1.519,60...........4,37M IAG............................................... 444,6.................445,1..............439,1.............1,98M ICG PLC.....................................2.030,00............2.032,00......... 2.012,00.......... 67,82K IMI PLC......................................3.126,00............3.138,00......... 3.100,00......... 178,42K Imperial Brands..........................2.788,00............2.788,00......... 2.750,00......... 214,57K Informa........................................ 903,4.................908,4............... 899............. 282,08K InterContinental........................... 158,1.................158,4..............156,4............ 32,81K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
Intertek.......................................5.835,00............5.840,00......... 5.835,00.......... 26,91K J Sainsbury.................................. 351,6.................353,3.............349,79.......... 551,03K JD Sports Fashion........................ 95,06.................95,42..............93,48.............3,38M Kingfisher..................................... 327,1.................327,1..............322,4........... 437,45K Land Securities............................ 711,5.................712,5............... 706............. 388,24K Legal & General.......................... 315,92..................316................308,8.............4,53M Lloyds Banking............................ 115,9...................116...............113,95...........22,75M London Stock Exchange.............8.972,00............8.978,00......... 8.718,00......... 264,98K Londonmetric Property................ 194,4.................195,9..............192,5.............1,51M M&G............................................ 365,6.................365,7..............360,9........... 531,01K Marks & Spencer........................ 405,75................407,7..............402,4.............1,28M Melrose Industries....................... 480,9.................482,9............... 476............. 371,38K Mondi........................................... 906,8...................927................902,6............ 57,19K National Grid..............................1.194,71............1.196,25......... 1.183,00............1,3M NatWest Group..............................717..................717,6..............704,2.............2,94M Next..........................................15.805,00..........15.820,00....... 15.625,00......... 29,81K Pearson......................................1.225,50............1.238,50......... 1.224,50......... 147,45K Pershing Square........................3.920,00............3.938,00......... 3.888,00.......... 49,08K Persimmon................................1.143,00............1.151,70......... 1.133,00......... 464,54K Prudential...................................1.052,00............1.053,00......... 1.023,50...........1,13M Reckitt Benckiser.......................5.284,00............5.288,00......... 5.242,00......... 149,29K Relx............................................2.614,50............2.638,00......... 2.588,00......... 876,29K Rentokil....................................... 359,05................360,2.............355,23............6,63M Rightmove................................... 476,4.................478,9.............468,35.......... 521,13K Rio Tinto PLC.............................7.455,00............7.515,00......... 7.439,00.......... 313,7K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.546,40............1.550,40......... 1.526,20...........1,44M Sage...........................................1.036,50............1.046,94......... 1.021,50......... 512,94K Schroders.................................... 583,5...................584................. 583............. 145,95K Scottish Mortgage......................1.377,00............1.378,00......... 1.365,00......... 294,17K Segro.............................................964..................965,8..............953,6........... 567,93K Severn Trent..............................3.106,00............3.112,00......... 3.080,00.......... 36,16K Shell...........................................3.294,00............3.330,00......... 3.283,00.......... 895,3K Smith & Nephew........................1.110,00............1.110,50......... 1.098,00......... 827,51K Smiths Group.............................2.717,00............2.717,05......... 2.691,00......... 192,92K Spirax-Sarco Engineering..........7.489,70............7.495,00......... 7.369,50.......... 47,75K SSE............................................2.368,00............2.383,00......... 2.357,00......... 202,18K Standard Chartered....................2.216,00............2.216,00......... 2.187,00......... 432,03K Standard Life................................ 941,5.................941,5..............927,5........... 252,46K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,14.................83,96..............82,94.............2,61M Tesco........................................... 471,9................475,51.............470,1.............2,93M Unilever......................................4.697,00............4.703,50......... 4.659,50............412K Unite..............................................537....................537................. 532............. 194,41K United Utilities............................1.423,00............1.427,00......... 1.410,00......... 127,52K Vistry Group................................. 275,2.................281,6..............272,2........... 237,99K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 119,85................120,2.............118,65...........13,65M Weir Group................................2.702,00............2.704,00......... 2.682,00.......... 71,91K Whitbread..................................2.510,00............2.523,00......... 2.490,30........... 48,4K WPP............................................. 393,3...................396................379,7.............2,56M
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 180,71................183,5.............179,46............2,55M Amazon.com............................... 272,26...............275,48............271,06...........30,67M American Express........................ 342,6...................350...............342,07............2,77M Amgen........................................ 404,85................418,4..............401,2.............2,61M Apple........................................... 312,41...............316,29............309,23...........46,14M Boeing......................................... 232,19...............240,37............231,33............7,13M Caterpillar.................................... 856,96...............879,33............856,96.............2,9M Chevron...................................... 189,23...............189,78............187,02............7,18M Cisco........................................... 120,88...............122,19.............119,9............14,05M Coca-Cola..................................... 86,85.................87,97..............86,42............13,57M Goldman Sachs..........................1.032,58............1.068,04......... 1.030,78...........1,73M Home Depot................................ 349,52...............353,55............347,51............2,62M Honeywell................................... 240,74..................250...............239,93............5,04M IBM............................................. 233,43...............234,47............228,44............4,25M J&J............................................. 256,98...............262,11............255,28............6,93M JPMorgan.................................... 356,3................362,81............354,95............5,82M McDonald’s................................. 276,26...............276,83............271,76............4,21M Merck&Co................................... 128,37...............131,08.............127,8.............7,05M Microsoft.................................... 499,86...............501,56............488,52...........36,44M Nike.................................................42...................42,64..............41,85............18,15M NVIDIA........................................ 218,99...............223,63.............. 217.............113,94M P&G............................................ 146,97................148,5.............145,45............8,77M Salesforce Inc............................. 186,77...............187,02.............. 183...............13,3M Sherwin-Williams........................ 363,42...............371,53............362,13............1,88M The Travelers.................................386.................386,59............382,25............1,48M UnitedHealth............................... 403,97...............416,97.............402,4.............4,71M Verizon......................................... 46,99.................47,48..............46,58.............24,3M Visa A.......................................... 370,47................371,1.............365,25............5,02M Walmart...................................... 112,07...............114,56............111,04............23,2M Walt Disney................................. 104,68...............104,73............102,52...........14,05M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 10 August
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced TEN Holdings.................................................. 252,20 %........................68,98M Wing Yip Food Holdings ADR......................... 194,28 %........................57,78M ClearOne......................................................... 166,30 %........................69,45M Creative Medical Tech Holdings....................... 71,92 %.........................272,9M Gauzy............................................................... 67,81 %........................234,25M Autozi Internet Technology.............................. 58,42 %.........................69,98M Zenta................................................................ 47,79 %..........................2,32M Wearable Devices............................................. 46,71 %..........................8,29M Surgepays........................................................ 45,66 %.........................273,8M Ensysce Biosciences........................................ 44,83 %........................498,05M Iovance Biotherapeutics................................... 43,09 %.........................73,43M Honest Company.............................................. 40,78 %..........................20,1M Paranovus Entertainment Tech........................ 40,12 %.........................31,36M Insmed............................................................. 33,86 %.........................12,04M Oportun Financial............................................. 32,84 %..........................2,45M Hertz Global Holdings...................................... 29,49 %........................155,82M Paysign............................................................ 29,30 %..........................3,33M Aeva Technologies........................................... 28,81 %..........................8,43M 5E Advanced Materials..................................... 27,94 %........................630,33K M - Million Dollars
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Declined YXT.Com Holding ADR....................................-66,07 %..........................3,25M ThredUp...........................................................-50,48 %.........................22,34M Vsee Health......................................................-39,84 %..........................5,75M BillionToOne.....................................................-38,89 %..........................3,75M Recon Technology...........................................-34,12 %..........................81,6M Biovie...............................................................-33,82 %..........................8,78M Commerce.com................................................-31,96 %..........................6,09M XCHG Ltd ADR.................................................-30,26 %.........................15,46M LegalZoom.com...............................................-30,00 %.........................13,06M Inseego............................................................-28,60 %..........................1,93M Olenox Industries.............................................-27,93 %........................157,54K biote Corp........................................................-27,88 %........................704,97K Context Therapeutics.......................................-27,27 %..........................4,34M Reitar Logtech Holdings...................................-26,72 %.........................27,12M Akebia Ther......................................................-26,05 %.........................17,69M Tripadvisor.......................................................-25,52 %.........................11,26M AiRWA.............................................................-25,51 %.........................58,74M Advantage Solutions........................................-23,26 %........................305,44K Honeywell Aerospace.......................................-23,16 %.........................20,63M M - Million Dollars
Fiery tango passion MARBELLA prepares for an evening of Argentine music and dramatic dance as La Porteña Tango returns to the city with its acclaimed show, Así se baila el tango. Audiences will have the chance to experience the sights and sounds of Buenos Aires on Thursday, August 20. La Porteña has built a major European following since its formation, completing over 800 concerts across 22 countries. The group last visited Marbella in 2024. This year’s production takes viewers on a journey through the history of tango, from its origins in the working-class ports around the Río de la Plata to its current status as a global art form. Traditional repertoire features alongside works by influential composer
Credit: LP FB
La Porteña retu
rn to ignite Marb
Astor Piazzolla. Tango combines music, dance, poetry, and singing, a rich cultural tradition inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009. The performance provides both residents and tourists an opportunity to enjoy authentic choreography and music. The show takes place at the Auditorio José Pernía
ella.
Calderón in Parque de la Constitución, Marbella, on Thursday, August 20, starting at 10 pm. Tickets cost €25. Attendees can purchase entry directly at the auditorium box office from Wednesday to Saturday between 7 pm and 10 pm, or order online via mientrada. net.
Strategy by the sea ESTEPONA hosts the 40th edition of its Night Chess Tournament on Thursday,
Credit:CasaresTH
August 13, on the promenade. Play runs from 8pm to midnight, offering 200
players aged six to 90 the chance to compete free of charge. Five independent tournaments will run based on age categories. Youngsters in the Pitufos and Under-8s category will play five rounds at 10 minutes per player. Competitors in the Under-10s, Under-12s, Under-14s, and Under-16s divisions will compete across six rounds. The Adults (Mayores) section features seven rounds at 10 minutes per player, while Seniors will play five rapid rounds at 15 minutes per player. Trophies will go to the top three finishers in each division, and all participants will receive a diploma. Interested players can register by emailing escueladeaje drez@estepona.es or sending a WhatsApp message to +34 619 063 600.
Candlelit evening A CENTURIES-old watchtower in Casares is set to glow with more than 5,000 candles. On Friday, August 14, the 16th-century Torre de la Sal will host the third Noche de Luna y Sal (Night of Moon and Salt), turning the seaside landmark into a candlelit stage. Music, fire and dance will fill the evening, with doors opening at 10pm. Seating is unreserved, so early booking and arrival is advised. Now in its third year, the event has become one of
the area’s most popular summer nights. Guests will hear a grand piano and string trio beneath the stars, joined for the first time by a dance troupe. Advance booking has been introduced this year to manage numbers, after two years of sell-out crowds. Officials say the change will make the night safer and more comfortable for everyone attending. Free tickets remain available and can be collected from Casares Town Hall,
the Secadero district office, or the Casares Costa district office. Beyond the music, organisers say the event breathes new life into one of the town’s most treasured monuments. Mayor Juan Luis Villalon described the tower as one of Casares’s most emblematic sites, while coastal councillor Alejandro Garcia promised an evening designed to move audiences, with music set against the sound of the sea.
Whisky Pisky bull ring FUENGIROLA will host a free evening of live entertainment on Saturday, August 15, when musical trio The Whisky Piskys perform at the town’s Plaza de Toros from 9pm. The group features musicians Seita, Mick, and Damian, who belong to international Celtic fusion outfit The Stolen Gnomes. Playing a wide range of instruments including flute, accordion, harmonica, saxophone, mandolin, guitars, and banjo, the trio combine Celtic and Irish traditions with soul, blues, and popular music. Formed in 2010 near Malaga, parent band The Stolen Gnomes have toured across Europe for years. They have shared stages with established acts such as Fairport Convention and Finbar Furey, as well as performing with principal dancers from Lord of the Dance. Their venue, Fuengirola’s Plaza de Toros on Calle Camilo Jose Cela, dates back to 1962 and now functions as a venue for
Credit: WP
Whisky Piskys free gig at the Fuengirola Bull Ring.
concerts and cultural events. Entry to the performance is completely free. Music fans can see the full six-piece group perform a few days later. The Stolen Gnomes will play at Noche de Folk at the Plaza del Torreon in La Cala de Mijas on Wednesday, August 19 at 10pm. This free concert, organised by Mijas Ayuntamiento, will also feature Madrid Celtic music and traditional dance group Irish Treble.
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BENAHAVIS is preparing for four days of non-stop entertainment as its annual feria returns from Thursday, August 13, to Sunday, August 16. Celebrations begin on Thursday, August 13, at 8pm with the opening of the fairground. A daily noise-free window runs from 8pm until 9.30pm to support children with sensory sensitivities. The official illumination switch-on takes place at 9.30pm with street performers and welcome drinks. Jessica Cárdenas García gives the opening address at 10.30pm in Plaza de España before live music across local squares carries on until 6am. Family activities feature heavily throughout the weekend. Friday, August 14, opens with children’s workshops at 1pm, followed by
Credit:ILikeBenahavis/FB
Food, drink and feria fun Street food and music
Preparing to light up Benahavis.
live music and a free paella on Avenida de Andalucia at 2pm. A special tribute lunch honours local senior citizens alongside inflatable obstacle courses and water games for youngsters. Saturday, August 15, brings a free barbecue at 2pm. Devout attendees can join the Rociera Mass at 8pm in Plaza de España, followed by
a traditional street procession. Action peaks on Sunday, August 16, with the 46th Benahavis Motorcycle Trial at 10am. Afternoon visitors can enjoy free Spanish tortilla and gazpacho at 2pm, a traditional ribbon race, and a 60 kg cake giveaway at 6pm. A midnight fireworks display concludes the festivities.
PINAR DE ELVIRIA is preparing to host a four-day celebration of delicious street food and pumping live music. Nine food trucks will offer a variety of tasty dishes every evening, starting at 7pm along with an artisan craft market and a dedicated children’s play area. Eight popular local musical acts will perform across the four nights. The entertainment lineup opens on Thursday, August 13, with tribute act Abba Angels taking the stage at 9.30pm, followed by Zak & Bruno at 10.30pm. Rock fans can enjoy Queen of Magic on Friday, August 14, from 10.30pm. Weekend performances kick off on Saturday, August 15, at 11pm with sets from local favourites Layla and Mami Curl. The event wraps up on Sunday, August 16, featuring earlier evening performances by
Credit:Zand B/
FB
Zac and Bruno will keep you dancing.
Joaco Viera at 8pm and Ollie Hugs at 9.30pm. Organisers have created an ideal evening destination for families and local residents wanting an evening with a difference with casual outdoor dining combined with high-energy live music under the stars. Guests can sample unique flavours, shop for handmade local goods, and enjoy non-stop stage entertainment from Thursday, August 13, through to Sunday, August 16, in the pretty surroundings of Pinar de Elviria.
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Real taste of Spain Event of the year seats beside the arena cost €30, while arena-side tickets are priced at €40. Dinner packages are available for all three seating areas. Prices are €58 for general seating, €68 for front-row seats and €78 for arena-side tickets. Each package includes the show, a three-course meal, one drink and bread. Guests can choose to dine before or after the performance. Dinner is served at 6.30pm for those eating first, or at 9.30pm after the show. The menu includes an
Iberian platter, oxtail croquettes or tomato and red onion salad for starters. Main courses are grilled Iberian secreto with chips, grilled sea bass with baker’s potatoes or vegetarian lasagne. Dessert choices are cheesecake or fruit salad. Plaza de Toros de Fuengirola is on Calle Camilo Jose Cela. Public parking is available nearby, but the venue has no private car park. Tickets can be booked through the official Plaza de Toros Fuengirola website. Credit:Festival del Arte Ecuestre/FB
BE dazzled by the Pasion Ecuestre Costa del Sol show as they bring their horses, flamenco and Spanish cuisine to Fuengirola on Thursday, August 13. The one-hour show will take place at the Plaza de Toros de Fuengirola from 8pm to 9pm. Performances by trained Spanish horses will be accompanied by live flamenco, creating an evening aimed at families, horse lovers and visitors seeking a taste of Andalucian culture. Tickets start at €20 for general seating. Front-row
Be dazzled by the horses and flamenco
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MORE than 100 tickets have already been sold for the Late Summer Soiree 2026, the biggest annual social event for expatriates on the Costa del Sol. Organisers Nathan Dean and Val Williams confirmed the gathering will take place on Tuesday, September 15, at MiNathan, Alexandra, Laura and Stelvis! raflores Golf. Doors open at 7pm, with a three-course dinner sertendees can donate via ved from 7.30pm alongside welcome bank transfer using reference “Sumcava, wine, and beer. Nathan Dean mer Soiree 2026.” Val Williams has hosts the evening, sharing the staalso introduced a voucher scheme ge with singers Alexandra Avery and where local restaurants offer discounLaura Carter. Elvis tribute act Stelvis ted meal vouchers for two, sold by will also perform. Guests are urged Simply Thriving to raise further funds to dress to impress, and a luxury rafor the charity. ffle featuring prizes from local busiNathan Dean is selling tickets every nesses will run throughout the night. Tuesday morning at Biddy Mulligan in Full menu details are available on the La Cala de Mijas, while Val Williams is hosts’ Facebook pages. available every Thursday morning at Tickets cost €45, which includes a the Cerros del Aguila pool bar. Boo€10 contribution to AFA Fuengirola kings can also be made by calling +34 Mijas Costa to help families affected 684 459 498 or messaging Simply by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Non-atThriving on Facebook.
Celebrate the tomato COIN is preparing for its annual celebration as its famous tomato festival returns to the town’s main square. Plaza de la Alameda will host the third edition of the Verbena Tomatera from Thursday, August 13, starting at 8pm each evening. The delicious event forms part of the town’s Feria de Agosto celebrations, with live bands, a DJ and food stalls serving the region’s prized produce. Organised by the Asociación Tomate Huevo Toro, the festival honours farmers behind the Tomate Huevo Toro, a large, air-cultivated tomato grown across the Valle del Guadalhorce. Sotano Sur performs on Thursday, with Siempre Así taking the stage on Friday. DJ Toni Solís will provide music across both evenings,
Credit:CoinTH/FB
The famous tomato festival returns.
alongside a bar serving food and drinks. Spanish singer Melody has been announced as patron of the Concurso Cata Subasta, the tasting and auction contest that closes the festivities on Saturday, August 15 at Parque San Agustin. A judging panel scores entries on flavour, colour, aroma and texture
before the winning crate is auctioned for charity. Last year’s auction reached €18,000, reflecting the tomato’s growing reputation among chefs. This year’s programme also introduces a national poetry competition inspired by the tomato, marking the first time literature and farming have been combined at the event.
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Taste of Thailand on the Costa del Sol THAI GARDEN FUENGIROLA, a popular restaurant run by a Thai family, continues to expand its menu on the Costa del Sol by serving traditional regional dishes. Every meal is prepared using authentic recipes and cooking techniques, giving visitors a genuine taste of Thailand without leaving Spain. To keep diners comfortable during hot summer months, the establishment has installed brand-new sunshades across its outdoor terrace. Located on one of the main town streets, the expanded shaded area provides a cool space to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a drink while watching passers-by. The restaurant menu features regional specialities rarely found outside Thailand. A prime addition is Khao Soi, a celebrated curry noodle soup from Northern Thailand that combines coconut curry, tender meat, egg noodles, crispy noodles, and traditional pickles. Other new additions include homemade spicy Thai sausage, traditional Thai fish cakes, and slowcooked pork ribs finished with a custom Thai glaze. For dessert, guests can order mango sticky rice, one of the country’s
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Thai Garden, Calle del Castillo, Fuengirola.
most famous sweet dishes. For lighter summer dining, the venue serves fruit-based salads priced at €12 each. Diners can select options featuring mandarin, grapefruit, green mango, pineapple, or watermelon, mixed with traditional herbs and Thai spices. Guests can also
add protein, such as tofu, chicken, pork, duck, or prawns, to convert the dish into a complete lunch or evening meal. To accommodate various dietary requirements, the kitchen prepares a broad range of clearly labelled vegan and glu-
ten-free choices. These meals receive the same attention to traditional flavour and care as the rest of the menu items, ensuring plant-based diners have plenty of delicious choices. In addition to traditional food, the establishment serves Hawkstone Lager and Hawkstone Cider, the award-winning drinks produced by Jeremy Clarkson’s UK farming team. These beverages provide a crisp complement to traditional Thai cooking. Value remains a focal point for the business, with a three-course lunch menu priced at €16, which includes a starter, main course, and a drink. For those who prefer to dine at home, food delivery is available through the Glovo and Uber Eats platforms. The establishment operates seven days a week from 1 pm until late, and it maintains an average of one five-star review for every day it has been open.
Located at Calle del Castillo 12, Fuengirola, Thai Garden provides an accessible option for local residents and holidaymakers seeking traditional Southeast Asian dining. Reservations and further enquiries can be made by calling 614 040 420.
HAVING kicked off on Wednesday, August 12, the Fair and Festivities in honour of Our Lady of the Cross continue in Benalmadena Pueblo until Sunday, August 16. The annual event brings live music, traditional processions, and family entertainment to the historic village. At the Los Nadales fairground, nightly concerts continue with Paco Candela on Friday, August 14, Cepeda on Saturday, August 15, and Javi Medina closing proceedings on Sunday, August 16. Sunday is designated as Children’s Day, featuring discounted ride prices. Live orchestras and the group Los Papitos perform nightly into the early hours. From Friday, August 14 to Sunday, August
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Party in the pueblo New Estepona exhibition Credit:Benalmade
naTH/FB
Casa de las Tejerinas hosts art exhibition. Feria returns for 20
26.
16, the Day Fair takes over Three Cultures Square, offering free tastings of traditional dishes, live performances, and children’s games. Religious events form the heart of Saturday, August 15, the feast day of Our Lady of the Cross. Mass begins at 11am at the church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, followed by a street procession at
7.30pm. A floral offering takes place the preceding evening, Friday, August 14, in the Wall Gardens. Extra parking is available at Santos Mareca Street, the Buddhist stupa, Colomares Castle, and Las Moriscas. Local bus routes 103 and 107 are running late-night services throughout the event.
A NEW exhibition opens in Estepona’s historic centre this month, giving residents and visitors a chance to take in fresh photography as they walk through the town. Estepona-based photographer Michael Ruiz Molina is displaying his work in the town centre, covering portraits, wildlife, event photography, landscapes and commercial projects. The exhibition offers a body of work spanning several genres. Ruiz Molina brings 12 large-format prints to one of the town’s popular cultural venues, with each image reflecting a different strand of his practice, from portraiture to nature to commercial work. Born in Germany and raised in Spain, he
has developed a versatile approach over years working behind the camera. The exhibition is held in Sala 1 of Casa de las Tejerinas, on the bustling Plaza de las Flores. Visitors can see the collection from Thursday, August 13, until Wednesday, August 26. The central location is easy to reach on a morning or evening stroll through the old town, when you fancy a stop off to see something new and escape the heat. Opening hours run Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 8pm, and Saturday, 9am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm. The gallery is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Admission is free. For more information, visit the Estepona Town Hall website.
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Skydiver misses mark Credit:Goaheadeagles/FB
30 13 - 19 August 2026
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An interesting start to the match.
Many showed concern about the welfare of the horses.
Should horse carriage rides be banned? A RECENT horse carriage crash in Fuengirola, Malaga, has reignited debate over whether horse-drawn carriage rides should be banned, particularly during periods of extreme heat. Euro Weekly News readers were asked whether horse carriage rides should be banned, with the majority of respondents firmly in favour. Many focused-on animal welfare, while others acknowledged the impact a ban could have on those who rely on carriage rides for their income. For Linda McFadden, there should be an end to both horse and donkey rides. She said: “Time to stop those carriage rides plus the donkey rides.” Animal welfare was also central to Shon Drek’s response, who argued that animals deserve to be treated with the same consideration afforded to other living beings: “Respect for animals is respect for life. They are not toys for us to play games with. They think and they have emotions. They get anxious and bored. It’s incredibly sad to abuse them especially because we are humans with a conscience and should know better.” Melissa Baker was similarly critical of using horses to transport tourists in high temperatures, saying: “No one wants to see these poor horses in the heat carrying entitled tourists.” The potential danger to both ani-
mals and people was highlighted by Gordon O’Keeffe, who believed accidents could be avoided. “If accidents like this are happening and can easily be prevented, then yes. Horses are skittish at the best of times, unpredictable. Especially in boiling hot weather. Stressed and anxious, they can be very dangerous (point in question) The only other thing to consider is that these are people’s livelihoods, their only source of income perhaps?” That concern about livelihoods provides another side to the debate, with carriage operators potentially depending on the trade to support themselves and their families. However, for Ali Scott, responsibility ultimately rests with those in charge. “Those in authority need to act and not just talk about it!” Other readers were unequivocal in their views. Penny Evans simply responded: “Definitely yes.” Robb Spontaneous was equally direct, stating: “Yes. Total animal abuse.” The responses show strong concern about the welfare of horses used for carriage rides, particularly during periods of extreme heat. While the livelihoods of carriage operators remain an important consideration, most people said horse carriage rides should be banned, reflecting growing concern over whether the tradition can be justified when animal welfare and public safety may be at risk.
THOUSANDS of supporters gathered at De Adelaarshorst Stadium in Deventer for the opening weekend of the new Eredivisie season, but a dramatic pre-match incident stole the spotlight before a ball had been kicked. Ahead of the match between Go Ahead Eagles and Willem II, organisers arranged for a team of skydivers to deliver the match ball as part of the entertainment. However, one parachutist drifted off course during his descent. Instead of landing near the centre of the pitch, he headed towards one end of the stadium and was unable to regain control. The skydiver crashed into the goal structure and advertising boards surrounding the field, prompting audible gasps from supporters. For a brief moment, many feared
he had been seriously injured. As concern spread around the stadium, one television commentator remarked: “The first injury of the season is a fact, not of a player, but a parachutist.” Fortunately, the fears proved unfounded. Moments after the collision, the parachutist got back to his feet and raised his arms to the crowd, drawing cheers and applause from relieved fans. Footage of the incident quickly spread across social media, where football supporters reacted with a mixture of sympathy and humour. “I felt that. Damn,” wrote one viewer, while another commented: “Oof, that didn’t go quite as planned.” One fan joked: “There is such a big goal and you miss that too.”
Getting away with murder in Spain - sort of! NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
WITH today’s global uncertainty, is it surprising we’re drawn to TV crime dramas? Their mysteries, twists and memorable characters let us experience all the thrills of real life but none of the spills! And faced with such unpredictability we get solutions and closure. Whether it’s the UK’s ‘Line of Duty’ or Spain’s ‘Money Heist’ (‘La casa de papel’, a massive global phenomenon), ‘The Innocent’ (‘El inocente’), ‘I Know Who You Are’ (‘Sé quién eres’) or ‘Locked Up’ (‘Vis a vis’, the Spanish equivalent
to ‘Orange Is the New Black’). However, it’s not just crime drama that’s flourished. Readers have turned in droves to crime novels to see the good guys win and loose ends tied up and readers tell me this is what they like about my crime thrillers. The latest ‘The Girl in Red’ just published both on Kindle and in paperback and ‘The House of Secrets’ available soon in audiobook format - all culminating in an invitation for inclusion in the prestigious Book Riot’s 2026 Read Harder Challenge! All novels narrated as before by Rayner Bourton (‘Rocky’ in The Rocky Horror Show’s original London production). Thanks for all messages to my website below about this column (you’ve followed now for 17 years!) and my audiobooks (free audio samples on Amazon). Happy listening!
Nora Johnson’s 15 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com
Imagine walking into a doctor’s surgery and saying, “I’ve got a headache.” The doctor doesn’t immediately reply, “Brain tumour.” Instead, they start asking questions. Where exactly does it hurt? How long have you had it? Have you been under stress? Within a few minutes, they’ve built up a picture that Google simply can’t. Medicine is a bit like detective work. Symptoms are clues, not answers.
READ MORE
The information provided in this column is for educational and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Read more at euroweeklynews.com/author/mstephan/
IN a world that often celebrates being busy, a growing number of people are embracing a different approach to self-care. Known as slow wellness, this trend focuses on building healthy habits that are realistic, enjoyable and easy to maintain, rather than chasing quick fixes or demanding routines. Instead of following strict diets, intense workout plans or complicated morning rituals, slow wellness encourages small, consistent changes that fit naturally
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A WARM, radiant complexion is one of summer’s most sought-after beauty looks, but achieving that healthy glow does not have to involve hours in the sun. In fact, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is the best way to keep it looking youthful and healthy for years to come. The secret to a convincing sun-kisle highlighter on the tops of the sed look starts with a lightweight cheekbones and the inner corners base that allows your natural skin of the eyes will enhance the glow to shine through. Follow with a without looking overly shimmery. cream bronzer, applying it lightly Complete the look with brusto the areas where the sun would hed-up brows, a coat of brown naturally hit, such as the forehead, mascara and a tinted lip balm in a cheeks and bridge of the nose. warm nude or rosy shade. Most imBlend well for a soft, seamless fiportantly, finish with a broad-specnish. trum SPF every morning. It is the Next, add a touch of peach or one product that protects your coral blush to the apples of your skin while allowing you to enjoy a cheeks. This creates the fresh, outbeautifully bronzed appearance, doorsy flush often associated with safely and confidently. time spent in the sunshine. A subt-
into everyday life. That might mean taking a daily walk, preparing nourishing meals, switching off screens before bed or setting aside a few quiet moments for reading or meditation. The appeal lies in its flexibility. Rather than trying every new trend, it is about choosing habits that genuinely make you feel healthier and happier.
Credit: ShotPrime Studio / Shutterstock
WE’VE all done it. You wake up with a headache, a sore throat or a mysterious ache in your shoulder. Rather than making an appointment with your doctor, you pick up your phone and type a few words into Google*. Five minutes later, you’re convinced you’ve got an incurable neurological disease, three forms of cancer and perhaps something so rare that only six people in the world have ever had it - and you’ve got it! Welcome to the wonderful - and occasionally terrifying - world of Dr Google. The internet has changed our lives beyond recognition. Never before has so much medical information been available to so many people at the touch of a button. That’s a fantastic thing. We can learn about healthy eating, understand why our blood pressure matters, read about diabetes, heart disease or arthritis, and become much better informed patients. The trouble starts when information turns into diagnosis. Google is brilliant at finding information. It is hopeless at telling you what’s actually wrong with you.
Credit: rawf8 / Shutterstock.com
DR MARCUS STEPHAN
13 - 19 August 2026
There is no pressure to be perfect or to tick off an endless checklist. Instead, the emphasis is on listening to your body, prioritising rest when needed and creating routines that support your physical and mental wellbeing over the long term. As more people seek balance in their daily lives, slow wellness is proving that lasting wellbeing does not come from doing more. Sometimes, slowing down is exactly what you need to feel your very best.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
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• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa Blanca North
Costa Blanca South
Miles that matter
Summer surge
BENIDORM became part of a deeply moving nationwide challenge when Madrid firefighter Jaime Domínguez Ibáñez ran 42 kilometres through the resort to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental health. Known as JimmyGo, the ultrarunner was joined by local athletes and Marina Baixa firefighters as he tackled a route taking in Poniente and Levante beaches before finishing outside Benidorm City Hall. The marathon was one stage of his ‘Break the Silence’ campaign. Domínguez has pledged to run 3,953 kilometres across Spain, one for every person who died by suicide in the country in 2024. Along the way, he carries a ‘torch of silence’, filled with names and messages dedicated to people lost to suicide. Benidorm also hosted a talk about the campaign, giving residents the chance to hear the personal story behind his mission.
TORREVIEJA is bursting into life this August, with new estimates suggesting as many as 438,000 people could be staying in the city at the height of the summer season. With around 113,000 residents registered on the municipal population roll, the figures mean Torrevieja is effectively becoming almost four times its normal size. The estimates come from a technical report prepared for Torrevieja Town Hall, providing a striking picture of just how dramatically the community changes each summer. July’s equivalent population is estimated at around 414,000, rising to 438,000 during August. Even in September, around 348,000 people could still be using the city’s homes, streets and services. Torrevieja’s huge number of second homes plays a major role. The municipality has more than 62,000 of them, while only around 1,600 hotel places are available across 14 hotels.
Axarquia
Almeria
Shocking pink
Pride in full colour
BEACHGOERS on Cotobro beach in Almuñecar received an unexpected surprise one Saturday in July around 11am when a rare pink visitor landed on the shoreline. A greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) touched down near the water, prompting astonished onlookers to pause and film the creature before it took off a few minutes later. Local resident Álvaro Martín captured the moment on video, noting that everyone stopped to watch the bird. Footage shared on social media rapidly spread among residents who missed the brief spectacle. Greater flamingos are renowned for their long legs, curved bills, and vivid pink plumage, which derives from their diet of crustaceans and algae. The birds typically favour shallow saline lagoons and coastal wetlands over open Mediterranean beaches. In Granada province, flamingos are usually seen only as passing visitors, making a direct landing on Cotobro beach particularly unusual.
VERA demonstrated its pride in true technicolour, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with an outrageously bright and festive parade. The 2026 Vera Playa Pride Parade marks a decade of advocacy. More than a bright party atmosphere, this march through the streets represents the importance of diversity and respect, positioning the freedom to live and love authentically as a basic right that should be afforded to all. Anticipation was high in the days leading up to the landmark event, especially as the parade was postponed out of respect for the Los Gallardos wildfire. Thousands flooded the streets in support. Some followed the route in cars, soft tops down and music blaring. Others partied on elaborately decorated floats. Hundreds more followed on foot, until the parade arrived at Playa Vera Hotel, where Rafa Lopez took to the stage to deliver the traditional Pride Proclamation.
Mallorca
Costa Calida
A royal good time
Lagoon love
KING FELIPE VI has wrapped up a busy weekend in Mallorca after competing in the 44th Copa del Rey de Vela before joining his family for dinner at a Palma restaurant. The King sailed aboard Hispania in the Abanca ORC 0 class, finishing second overall and winning the final race of the prestigious regatta in the Bay of Palma. After racing ended, Felipe attended the trophy ceremony at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, where he was welcomed by Balearic President Marga Prohens and other regional and local officials before presenting awards to the winning crews. Later, he joined Queen Letizia, Queen Sofía, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía at Mía restaurant in Palma’s Portitxol district. The family were also accompanied by Jean Henri Fruchaud, a close friend of Queen Sofía. The dinner provided a relaxed end to the royal family’s Mallorca weekend.
IN a symbolic gesture of solidarity, thousands of residents and visitors gathered at the beaches of Los Alcazares to form a massive human chain in order to call for a “living Mar Menor.” This peaceful protest, which has now been ongoing for six consecutive summers, took place primarily at the Los Espejos beach, with hundreds of residents expressing their commitment to protecting this unique ecosystem, the largest saltwater lagoon in Europe. The beaches were alive with activity. Banners displaying slogans, as well as the seahorse, which has long represented the Mar Menor, could be seen all along the human chain. Over the years, the protests bloomed from small local gatherings on the idyllic beaches of the Region of Murcia to become a global movement, supported by more than 140 international organisations.
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Ted Lasso
t: Apple TV edi Cr
AFTER a cathartic, only slightly disappointing finale, Ted Lasso has unexpectedly returned for a fourth season. The American-football coach turned proper-football coach is back at Richmond, this time to lead the Lady Grayhounds to victory. Releasing weekly on Apple TV, the first few episodes already feel like a return to form, with each episode full
of Kansas quips, British banter and lots of positivity.
The Drama
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DAYS before Robert Pattinson and Zendaya’s characters are set to walk down the aisle, the two go to dinner with their close friends. After a few too many glasses of wine, secrets come to light that change everything, sending their wedding week off the rails. The Drama is at once a hilarious dark comedy, and a fascinating philosophical think-piece that will leave viewers debating long after the end credits.
Credi t: A 2
Read the signs MARBELLA MOMENTS
Credit: Nicole King
BY NICOLE KING MARBELLA’S paseo maritimo now nearly covers the entire 27 kilometres of our city and is one of the highlights of living here. However in summer as it also becomes incredibly busy, we need to be aware of the rules and abide by them. Firstly it is worth remembering that a paseo maritimo literally means a seaside ‘promenade’, a place designed for walking. Nowadays it’s a melange of pedestrians, children playing, dogs, runners, cyclists and electric scooters all sharing the promenade, alongside restaurant terraces and waiters regularly crossing the walkway. To optimise our safety, the rules for bicycles and personal mobility vehicles now vary according to the section of the paseo, and signs that previously restricted cycling at certain times have been replaced in some areas by signs telling cyclists and scooter users to dismount and walk alongside their vehicle. There is a good reason behind the change. In August last year, Marbella Town Hall temporarily stopped bicycles
New signs on the paseo maritimo.
and scooters being ridden on a number of paved sections after reporting an increase in incidents between pedestrians, bicycles and personal mobility vehicles during July. The measure was specifically introduced to prevent further accidents and protect pedestrians during periods of particularly high footfall. Where cycling is permitted, pedestrians still always have priority, the maximum speed is 10 kilometres per hour, users must keep right and zig-zagging and reckless riding is prohibited. On a crowded promenade, someone stepping unexpectedly into their path, children or dogs changing direction, sudden braking or evasive manoeuvres lead to very nasty accidents.
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Shipwrecked Guinness A MURKY bottle of Guinness that spent more than 160 years beneath the sea could help scientists recreate the pint enjoyed in Victorian Ireland. Divers discovered up to 20 bottles of stout among the cargo of a shipwreck around five kilometres off Dover during the summer of 2025. The vessel is believed to be the Mindora, which sank after a collision in November 1864 while travelling from London to Vancouver. Rather than risk tasting the contents and attempting to split the oldest G in history, expedition diver Stefan Panis and historical researcher Paweł Truszynski have launched ‘Project Jurassic Beer’. Professor Kevin Verstrepen, a brewing yeast specialist at KU Leuven in Belgium, will help exa-
mine the bottles. Finding living yeast after so long is quite unlikely, but surviving DNA could lead scientists to a closely related modern strain and allow them to brew something resembling the original stout. The Guinness Archive at St James’s Gate in Dublin is also helping the
team assess the discovery and compare it with company records. There is still a little mystery attached. Historic documents differ over whether the ship was called Mindora or Mindoro, and its identity has not been formally confirmed. Nor has a tasting date been announced, so the Victorian pint remains tantalisingly out of reach.
Credit: Frederik Boving
Scientists hope the recovered yeast could help recreate the Guinness enjoyed in Victorian times.
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euroweeklynews.com • 13 - 19 August 2026
FACT
SPONSORED BY
Liquid cats
CATS can squeeze into impossibly tight spaces because their collarbones are unattached to other bones. Instead, the feline clavicle is buried in muscle, allowing their shoulders to fold inward. If a cat’s head can fit through a gap, their incredibly flexible skeletal structure ensures the rest of their body follows.
Why are HouseSitMatch dog sitters so good? HOUSESITMATCH takes a refreshingly different approach to finding and vetting pet sitters. We connect you with experienced pet lovers who also have a passion for travel, so they travel to your home at their cost. How does it work? • It’s a fair exchange: Our dog sitters don’t charge for their services. They exchange their time and dedicated pet care for free accommodation in your home. • Safety is our priority: A mandatory triple ID and fraud check protocol keeps our entire community safe. • It’s a collaborative community: Our sitters are simply happy to help pets thrive while you’re away. Need a dog sitter for your own canine friend? Whether you’re off on a long cruise or visiting family back home for the holidays, your pets prefer the comfort of their own home. Live-in sitters keep their daily routines intact and your property secure - saving you money and sparing your
Dylan with his new friends Deb and Simon.
furry best friend a stressful trip to the kennels. Next step Joining our network is simple, secure, and collaborative: 1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com. 2. Create your profile with photos highlighting your property features and pets 3. Match and explore with your perfect house sitter partner and start planning your next trip!
For a small annual registration fee (and zero ‘per-sit’ fees), you access a secure, vibrant community. Pets get to stay at home, routines intact, properties remain secure, and you get a budget-friendly way to travel. Why HouseSitMatch works We’re more than a platform we’re a community. • Checked members - We verify both homeowners and sitters to keep the whole network safe. • Human support - Our team is on hand to guide you, answer questions, and help you. • Easy video tools - Use our secure video call features to meet sitters before confirming the match. “This site is definitely the best... Lamia and her team provide such a personal approach and will talk you through any problems.” — Kay Lattimore Claim your exclusive reader discount Register today at HouseSit Match.com and use code WEL COME25 to receive 25 per cent off your first year.
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Clean ears, happy dog HEALTHY ears are an important part of your dog’s overall wellbeing, but they’re often overlooked until a problem appears. Regular checks can help you spot issues early and keep your four-legged friend comfortable. Start by looking inside your dog’s ears once a week. Healthy ears should be clean, pale pink and free from strong odours. A small amount of wax is perfectly normal, but redness, swelling, excessive wax or an unpleasant smell could point to an infection or ear mites. When it comes to cleaning, always use a dog-friendly ear cleaner recommended by your vet. Gently apply the solution, massage the base of the ear for a few seconds, then let your dog shake their head before wiping away any loosened debris. There are a few things you should avoid. Never insert cotton buds into your dog’s ear canal, as they can push wax deeper inside or even cause injury. Household products, alcohol and hydrogen
Credit: Laracuth / Shutterstock
PETS
Check ears regularly.
peroxide should also stay well away from your pet’s ears as they may irritate the delicate skin. Dogs with floppy ears or those that enjoy swimming may need more frequent ear checks, as
moisture can encourage infections. If your dog is scratching their ears constantly, shaking their head or seems uncomfortable, arrange a visit to your vet rather than attempting to treat the problem yourself.
PETS
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Cat trees provide a safe place to climb, scratch and play.
them maintain their claws and mark their territory, so a dedicated scratching area can also protect your furniture. For indoor cats, a cat tree offers valuable mental stimulation. Different platforms, hiding spots and toys can turn an ordinary corner
of your home into an exciting adventure zone. Choosing the right cat tree depends on your cat’s size, age and personality. With the right design, a cat tree can become a favourite spot where your pet feels comfortable, entertained and happy every day.
Credit: WK-Production / Shutterstock
Water safety
Life jackets aren’t just for humans.
A DAY at the beach or a trip to the lake can be great fun for dogs, but open water can also present serious risks. Not every dog is a confident swimmer, and even strong swimmers can quickly become tired, disorientated or caught in currents. Before letting your dog near the water, check the conditions. Strong currents, waves, steep banks and hidden debris can all create hazards. Keep your dog within sight at all times, particularly around unfamiliar water, and avoid allowing them to swim too far from shore. A well-fitted dog life jacket is another important precaution, especially
for dogs that are older, nervous, have short legs or are not natural swimmers. Choose one with a secure fit and a sturdy handle so you can lift your dog from the water if necessary. It is also worth teaching your dog where to enter and exit the water safely. Never assume they will find their way back to shore on their own. After a swim, rinse your dog with fresh water to remove salt, algae or other irritants, and provide plenty of drinking water. With a little preparation and close supervision, you can help make those sunny days by the water safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Credit: Guillermo Spelucin R / Shutterstock
Feline fun Summer sickness Credit: New Africa / Shutterstock
CATS may spend plenty of time sleeping, but they also need opportunities to climb, explore and stay active. A cat tree can provide the perfect space for your furry companion to play, relax and satisfy their natural instincts. One of the biggest benefits of a cat tree is that it allows cats to climb and observe their surroundings from a safe height. Being up high helps cats feel secure and gives them a place to retreat when they want some quiet time. This is especially useful in busy homes or households with other pets. Cat trees also support healthy habits by encouraging movement. Jumping between levels, stretching out and scratching posts help cats exercise their muscles while keeping boredom at bay. Scratching is a normal behaviour for cats, helping
13 - 19 August 2026
HOT summer days can be just as challenging for pets as they are for people. Dogs, cats, and other animals can quickly become unwell if they overheat, so knowing what to do could make all the difference. Watch for warning The summer heat can take its toll. signs such as heavy panting, excessive drooling, weakness, vomiting, Contact your vet straight away, confusion or difficulty walking. even if your pet appears to rePets may also become unusua- cover. Heat-related illnesses can lly quiet or collapse if heatstroke worsen rapidly and may cause sedevelops. If you notice any of the- rious internal damage. se symptoms, move your pet to a The best approach is prevencool, shaded place immediately. tion. Offer small amounts of cool, Walk dogs during the cooler fresh water, but never force them morning or evening hours, provito drink. You can also gently cool de constant access to shade and them with chilled (not icy) water, fresh water, and never leave any paying particular attention to their pet in a parked car. With a little paws, tummy and neck. Avoid extra care, your furry companions using ice or freezing water, as this can stay safe, healthy and happy can do more harm than good. throughout the summer.
CATS are naturally curious creatures that love to explore, hunt and solve problems. While a cosy bed and plenty of cuddles are important, puzzle toys can provide the mental challenge and stimulation cats need to stay happy and healthy. Puzzle toys encourage cats to use their natural hunting instincts by making them work for treats, food or rewards. Instead of simply eating from a bowl, cats can enjoy the excitement of searching, pawing and figuring out how to access their prize. This can help prevent boredom, especially for indoor cats who may have fewer opportunities to explore outdoors. These clever toys can also support physical activity. Moving around, batting objects and stretching to reach rewards help keep cats active, which is important for maintaining a
Clever cats
Credit: Maximilian100 / Shutterstock
Keep cats entertained with puzzle toys.
healthy weight. Puzzle toys can be particularly useful for cats that spend a lot of time alone, giving them something fun to focus on
during the day. When choosing a puzzle toy, start with a simple design and gradually introduce more challenging options as your cat gains confidence. Every cat is different, so finding the right toy may take some trial and error. With the right puzzle toy, playtime becomes more than entertainment. It becomes a rewarding way to keep your cat’s mind sharp and their natural instincts satisfied.
SERVICES
38 13 - 19 August 2026 AIR CONDITIONING
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REMOVALS & STORAGE
DRAINS
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CLASSIFIEDS AIR CONDITIONING AIR CONDITIONING by Cool and Cosy. The family company that cares. Installation and repairs. Quality machines. Ecosense movement sensors supplied and fitted from 100 Euros. For other energy-saving products visit www. coolandcosy.es. 952 935 513. We are Junta de Andalucia authorised installers as the new law states (real decreto 115/2017). On the Costa del Sol since 1993 (313872)
colours available, also black-out blinds. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@ aceofshades.design (101730)
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BUILDERS
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BLINDS ACE OF SHADES - Vertical, Venetian, Roman, Roller, Wooden blinds, various
on Coast. Steve the Welder. Call/WhatsApp 655 040 648 (351071)
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AWNINGS ACE OF SHADES – All colours available. Urbanisations catered for, electric and manual operation; also recovery service available, largest selection of colours and designs on the coast. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design T1 (101730)
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BUILDING SERVICES SWINGLES CASAS SL. For all your building needs. Visit www. swinglescasas.com for more details or call 635 999 765 / 666 960 262 (312938) GENERAL BUILDER Tiling Plastering Electrician Plumber Carpentry. Reasonable Prices. 635 913 885 (References available) (350861)
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CHARITY COLLECTIVE CALLING are urgently requesting donations of clothing, homeware & furniture, so if you are having a
13 - 19 August 2026 House Clearance, Please call us for FREE COLLECTION. We sell good quality items, which then supports low-income families and the homeless in the community. These items can be dropped directly to our charity shop Tienda Solidaria: Av. Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 4, San Pedro de Alcantara, alternatively, call us to arrange collection on +34 711 006 961 (295137)
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DECORATORS
LA CALA – Encounter Church (Elim). Family friendly church with kids activities. 11 am Sundays at the Cazbah Live Lounge, Av de Jerez, La Cala 29649. Rev Dave Hodgson 695 115 496 (10012)
#1 Painters on the Costa Del Sol. No job too big or small. Call +34 604 20 59 18 or visit www.marbellapainters.es (350807)
THE Ark Christian Church. We meet at The Ark Christian School, Calle Río Darro 2 y Plaza Juncal, 29651, Mijas Costa (the road behind the
BLOCKED DRAINS? Leak detection, CCTV survey, root removal, Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com
DRAINAGE
ELECTRICIAN ALL TYPES OF ELECTRICAL work, re-wiring, fault finding. Professional & experienced. No job too small. Malaga to Marbella & Inland. Frank Tel. or WhatsApp 650 561 629 (350851)
ENTERTAINMENT KARAOKE Software & Songs In All Languages. No Internet Needed 664 540 154 (350996)
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CLASSIFIEDS
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IRRIGATION IRIS-IRRIGATION and landscapes. TRENCHLESS NO DIG Irrigation installation, Cables, Fibre Optic, Electric & Lighting Cables. New Installations & problem-solving. Turf (supply and laying). Garden constructions. Tree surgeon. Clearing. Astro Turf (Free Quotation) 676 747 521 (350877)
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GLASS CURTAINS GLASS CURTAIN repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (313513)
HANDYMAN HANDYMAN/BUILDER: GENERAL BUILDING WORK, PAINTING, WALL/ROOF WATERPROOFING, SMALL RENOVATIONS & OTHER JOBS. CALL MICHAEL 622 755 666. (350944)
HEALTH & BEAUTY
THERAPY ENJOY your future healing your past through a holistic approach that combines your conscious and unconscious mind. Visit www.hlterapiaholistica.com or call Hilde on 609 500 428 to start your journey (350995)
PIETER KREFT, certified Energy Healer, Paranormal Therapist and Coach. Practice in Spain. Website: https://www. pieterkrefthealer.nl (350978)
HOUSE CLEARANCES WE can remove household items/furniture that you no longer need. Same day collection. Removals service also available. Call 697 511 071 (350325) CARS, VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN / UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (304365) PRIVATE person looking to buy a good set of high-end sofas and garden/Naya furniture. Must be in perfect condition. 685 524 921 (304365) CARS, VANS, ANY REGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE / EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 (304365) ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM: We purchase quality second hand furniture & home décor. Cash payment upfront for house clearance services. Come visit our 400m2 shop in Alhaurin el Grande. Call Aymerick: 608 862 310 (350876)
INSURANCE 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
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LOCKSMITHS
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FULL BODY WASH nice relaxing massage by ebony. Call 632 233 205 (351067)
ENGLISH LOCKSMITH emergency & appointment, locks changed, patio doors & windows secured. All locks supplied insurance approved. Fast & reliable service. No hidden extras or nasty surprises. 657 466 803 www. mrlocksmith.es (350582)
FUENGIROLA. Japanese Shiatsu & Zen Ki relaxing and therapeutic massage. Excellent service guaranteed. Home Visits. WhatsApp for appointment 682 179 177 & 625 613 010 (350472)
MASSAGE SAN PEDRO ALCANTARA Camila Masseur 39, Slim, pretty - private apartment Call 603 804 443. (351015) MASSAGE and fun !!! Genuine trained exotic Male tantric masseur. Marbella, 602 098 606 (351048) FUENGIROLA. Maria, 28 years old, Asian, deep relaxing massage, WhatsApp only. 605 178 583 (FU3645) ENGLISH ATTRACTIVE Elegant and charming lady, gives a sensual massage and more, in her private apartment where satisfaction is guaranteed.
MASSAGE
If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161
SHAVING & Massage sensitive area by mature Japanese masseuse. Fuengirola. 610 396 186 (FU3649)
BOLICHES: Celina high satisfaction! Calm Moments, Deep Sensual Relaxing Massages Comfort of My Home! More: https://celina-16. jimdosite.com 11am/6pm 622 210 797 (FU3641) ASIAN prostatic, deep, hard, soft massage pleasures body /mind therapy, proffessional, tradional luxury atmosphere. Elviria. 633 705 558 (BO 600040) PROFESSIONAL MALE muscled masseur. Full-body relaxing, deep tissue and therapeutic massage. In/ outcalls. WhatsApp me 607 595 906
13 - 19 August 2026 ORIENTAL ladies and feminine trans luxury naughty orgasmic massage discreet Elviria. 613 836 254 (BO 600040) KOREAN oriental body technique deep massage relaxing. Marbella. 603 208 080 (BO 600040) EVA, Jamaican full body professional massage, discreet, San Pedro de Alcantara, Marbella 613 211 041. (350753) ASIAN trans spectacular feminine look, absolutely relaxing massage. Elviria 604 272 978 (BO 600040) FILIPINO MASSAGE CENTRE MARBELLA where hearts of authentic filipina therapists open daily. 604 421 973 (BO 600040) FUENGIROLA. Excellent company sensitive massage, Ukrainian pretty lady. In/ Outcalls 657 697 397 (FU3642) FILIPINA slim I will massage you totally. Marbella 603 269 805 (BO 600040) RELAXING Tantric full body massages. Elena Estepona. Bookings 635 290 724 (351008)
NUEVA ANDALUCIA: If you’re looking for an attractive, sexy, independent masseuse; a sensual, relieving full body massage, and more Tel: 656 350 401 (1296167)
LADYBOY/ GAY feminine beautiful, sensual, sensitive relaxing massage. Marbella. 604 428 812. (BO 600040) REFRESHING THAI massages. Body-body. Paloma Park, Benalmádena. Visits. Hotels. WhatsApp 689 387 448 (BO 600041)
MEETING POINT
MOTORS FOR SALE
MORTGAGES MISLAID your payslip/P60 or other paperwork? Recovery documents service available, fast, confidential, reliable, Better call Saul 617 910 147 (350994)
MOSQUITO SCREENS ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you! Available in enrollable, slider and pleated. Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730) MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a high-quality sliding patio door screen. All finishes available. Quick service. All areas covered. Call Julian 655 825 931 (313513) MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws
MOTORHOMES & CARAVANS CARAVANS for sale from 4500€ holiday home on wheels 672 561 145 (351090)
MOTORING
FUENGIROLA - Johanna Brazilian 52yrs Slim Mature Masseur. Relaxing Massages. Best relax guaranteed. Tel: 617 818 615 (351046)
BENALMADENA Young lady 35, attractive, sexy, educated. For gentlemen. €30. 634 209 427. (351045)
INSURANCE
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ELDERLY ENGLISH GENTLEMAN recovering from long covid, living beachfront, WLTM very special lady 55-65? Free accommodation available as companion, friend, housekeeper. Must have car, be semi-financially independent and maybe in time if mutually compatible, intimate friend, who is now free from emotional entanglement. Anthony 658 401 778 (351073)
CAMPER VANS, CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 (304365) CARS, VANS, ANY RESGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE / EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 CARS, VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN / UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (304365)
FOR SALE 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)
CLASSIFIEDS
42 13 - 19 August 2026 WANTED WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (304365)
PAINTER & DECORATORS PAINTER & DECORATOR based San Pedro/Marbella/Estepona. Belgian tradesman, precise and reliable — interior & exterior. Handyman and other jobs also welcome. Free quote within 24h. English, Spanish, Dutch & French spoken. Steven +34 685 519 343 (351054)
PETS
KENNELS CAT & DOG World Kennels and Cattery. 952 112 978 / 630 197 435. www.catanddogworld. com (350987)
PET CHARITY ACE CHARITY ‘El Refugio’ in La Cala de Mijas is a registered charity. We have on average 275 dogs in our care and we receive no help from the town hall or the Andalucian government. We desperately need foster homes and adoptants for our many dogs, especially the small ones and puppies who do not do well in a big shelter. We are grateful for any help offered, including donations of food and blankets. Visiting times are from 13.00 to 15.00 and you can always turn up or make an appointment by calling Denise on 669 018 736. Our website is www. ace-charity.org where you can view all the dogs in our care. ADANA THE ANIMAL SHELTER IN ESTEPONA. We always need volunteers to walk and socialise with our dogs and help with cleaning. We also need good homes for our animals that you can see on www.adana.es. Kennels open every day 10-1.30, Camino de Casares, near Parque de los Pedregales, Estepona. (5 minutes from the Poligono) For more information call 952 113 467, available from 10.00am until 2.00pm. (93319) ARCH - The Andalusian Rescue Centre for Horses and Donkeys is open to the public on the first Sunday of each month from 10.00 until 14.00. Closed in July and August. Private visits can be booked in the mornings by arrangement. Contact the Centre on its website www. horserescuespain.org or on its Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos to organise these. Timings need to be organised in advance to make sure there are sufficient volunteers to show visitors around. There is no admission charge but donations are welcomed. (93322)
SEPE the horse and donkey charity is open to the public at weekends from 10.00 to 5.00. Volunteers are much needed in all departments and are welcome at any time. For our riding for the disabled classes, we are also in need of extra helpers. We are nationally registered by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior (164640) but only with your support can we give the equine a voice. If you can just commit to 2 or 3 euros a month it will really help make a difference. You can find us at Lauro Golf Equestrian Centre, Alqueria, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel. 608 258 950 info@sepeonline.net www.sepeonline.net (93321) SOS ANIMAL REFUGE we have dogs, young and old looking for homes. Some of our dogs have been with us for some time and would love to find a cosy spot to curl up in and a knee on which to rest their heads. If you have room in your heart and home we would love to hear from you. We do not put our dogs to sleep - no matter how old, they are safe with us. For day to day needs and to pay for veterinary care, we much appreciate the support we receive. We desperately need items to sell on our market stall to help raise funds and are happy to come and collect. So, if you are having a clear-out, please contact us on 605 227 155. If you would like to know more about rehoming, please call 653 257 875. Visit our website www.sos-animals.org or please phone Sandy on 952 385 923 or 666 814 056 if you would like to make a donation or help in any way. (93317)
PLUMBING PLUMBING. Leak detection & blocked drains. Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain. com (312014) PLUMBING SERVICES. For all your Plumbing needs, bathrooms/ kitchens. Water boilers supplied and fitted from e320. Tel 669 073 773. Glen. (350989)
PROPERTY
PROPERTY WANTED URGENT! If you are thinking of selling your property, contact us today – we have clients waiting. www.rainbowrealty.es +34 952 466 521 (350975) WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM Costa del Sol Property Sales & Long term rentals wanted. All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@intermarbella.com (350543)
PROPERTY FOR SALE WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM Costa del Sol Property for sale. All areas / all budgets / all types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008 Email info@intermarbella.com (350543) SELLING UP?? Why not give us a call and let us give you an honest and realistic valuation of your property. List with us and let us take the stress out of selling your home. No sale no fee!! English agent on the ball with clients waiting. Please call 685 524 921. (304365) ESTATE with farm between Marbella and Estepona. Approx 10 per cent size GIBRALTAR. houses, garages, out-houses Rio Velerin. marbellaland.com. OFFERS INVITED. 622 589 680 & +44 796 093 35 66 (313622)
If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161
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CLASSIFIEDS
euroweeklynews.com PROP MAINTENANCE STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. Persiana repairs, Decorating, Electrial & Plumbing repairs.
POOLS
682 636 451 www. starlight-spain.com (350692)
PROPERTY TO LET WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM Costa del Sol Property Long Term Rentals All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422 UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@ intermarbella.com (350543)
REMOVALS/STORAGE moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (300998)
NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL JDS EURO TRANSPORT & REMOVALS - Regular trips throughout Europe. Call or WhatsApp Julian 0044 7884 908 929. See Facebook Page for recommendations (313439) moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (300998)
STORAGE moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (300998)
ROLLER SHUTTERS ACE OF SHADES - PERSIANA (security shutter) electric and manual, various colours available including wood effect, we also offer a repair service. Make your home more secure! Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@ aceofshades.design (1017300)
PLUMBERS
ROLLER shutter repairs, 7 days a week, conversion from manual to motorised, new installations. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (313513)
SITUATIONS VACANT
SOLICITORS/LAWYERS
HAIR SALON. Mijas Golf, Chair available for experience hairstylist with own clients. Also nail table available. 603230757 (350985) JOIN our dynamic sales team in Fuengirola. Are you a confident, driven, and experienced telesales professional looking for a fast-paced and rewarding role? This could be your next big opportunity! Send your CV today! recruitment@ euroweeklynews.com
SOFT FURNISHINGS CURTAINS, blinds, cushions and much more. Free estimates and home visits. Tel 657 369 343 or rosannacarmella8@ gmail.com (313494)
SWIMMING POOLS POOL MAINTENANCE, & Repairs, including heaters & regrouts. Friendly & reliable service. Malaga to Estepona & inland areas. 678 791 495 / 951 536 389 www. sparklenripple.net (313065)
UPHOLSTERY ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning, 28 years’ experience, wet/dry clean. Honest, reliable. 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 acservs@outlook.com (304365) UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (304365)
SITUATIONS VACANT
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MOTORING
Credit: ISAC - Institute of Highway Engineering
Circles on curves
euroweeklynews.com
Spider surprise Credit: BMW
White circles painted on curves for motorcyclist safety.
DRIVERS driving along a particularly tight bend may soon notice white circles painted on the asphalt, as the DGT begins to introduce new safety markings. These white circles are designed to warn motorcyclists of upcoming hazards, reducing motorcycle related accidents. In 2025, 304 motorcyclists died according to the Spanish Association of Automotive professionals. This marked the highest number of mo-
torcyclist deaths in 10 years. As such, reducing accidents and protecting bikers on the road has become one of the DGT’s top priorities. The white circles are placed before or on a dangerous curve to warn motorcyclists of potential hazards ahead. Upon seeing the circular marking, motorcyclists are instructed to stay to the side of the circle to avoid being too close to the centre line when going around the bend. This
prevents their body from encroaching on oncoming traffic, which can be a hazard even if the motorcycle itself is still in its designated lane. The DGT have tested a number of methods to improve motorcyclist safety, including perpendicular lines to indicate the safe following distance. The DGT now hopes to see as much improvement as Austria, which saw an 80 per cent reduction in deaths after introducing similar signage.
Red and webbed BMW at Spider-Man: Brand New Day premier
AHEAD of its late-July release, BMW partnered with Spider-Man: Brand New Day, arguably the biggest blockbuster of the summer. Not only were BMW vehicles prominently featured in some of the film’s most action-packed scenes, but the car-maker also released several promotional videos which saw the web-slinger swinging and jumping over the brand-new Neue Klasse model. Given that Spider-Man: Brand New Day has already grossed over a billion dollars at the box office, the partnership is set to bring a lot of eyes to the already established brand. But not everyone is thrilled by the collaboration, namely BMW drivers who are being bombarded with advertisements every time they get in their car.
Promoted as a “special surprise” drivers are treated to a Spider-Man animation on their centre touchscreen console when they first turn their car on. Click the animation and a full-screen animation complete with music and a light show also play. This feature was made available for cars with the BMW Operating System 7, 8, 8.5, 9 or BMW Operating System X and a production date after 7/2020. Vehicles in more than 70 countries saw the ads between July 27 and August 10, although notably not in the UK and Ireland. Drivers were quick to express their displeasure that after paying in some cases up to €100,000 they were being force fed ads in their own vehicle.
euroweeklynews.com
MOTORING
13 - 19 August 2026
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KGM Rhino – capable, comfortable and full of features ROAD TEST
Facts at a Glance
By Mark Slack THE pick-up market has changed from one of purely working vehicles to one that now encompasses a more mixed, leisure orientated set of buyers. Standard and optional equipment now includes many features found in cars, many of them in luxury models, with ventilated seats, navigation and adaptive cruise control not being unusual on the specification list. KGM, previously SsangYong, have been progressing their range with a more refined and quality bias for some time and we are seeing the results. The latest Musso Rhino pick-up is an example in point and is very much a top-line model with standard features that put many cars to shame and raises its game against the competition. Prices start from €45,585/£38,995 with the plus model adding a €1,169/£1,000 premium. Essentially the Rhino+ adds a more capacious load carrying capacity, courtesy of a slightly longer load bed, and an increased payload weight. While the Rhino may not worry the
likes of Ford’s Ranger, it does offer an excellent specification for a very competitive price. With suitably rugged looks it comes with selectable all-wheel-drive, including low range, hill descent and hill start. Over a rugged but dry and dusty course, the Rhino coped admirably. It’s not meant to be a Land Rover capable off roader, but it’s much more capable than many would imagine. Standard fare is very generous with everything from Nappa leather seats, heated seats all-round and ventilated front seats to intelligent cruise control, dual zone climate and much more. The interior feels very car like, and not at all utilitarian, with buttons, rotary dials,
a touchscreen that offers a simple swipe to access driver safety systems, it’s an object lesson in how to make a vehicle pleasant to drive. The 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engine is not the most refined but, unless pushed hard, is surprisingly smooth. There is no manual gear option but the 6-speed automatic changes smoothly enough and it’s not difficult to keep up with traffic even on faster roads. On the road the ride is a bit choppy (the Rhino EV rides noticeably smoothly and a report on that will follow next month) although it’s better when cruising and handles particularly well in
• Model: KGM Musso Rhino • Engine: 2.2-litre turbo-diesel developing 202PS and developing 400Nm of torque. • Gears: 6-speed automatic, selectable all-wheel-drive with high and low ratio and locking rear differential • Price: €45,585/£38,995 excl’ VAT • Performance: Maximum speed 172kph/107mph/3.5 tonne tow capacity/1090kg payload • Economy: 7.9 litres per 100km/29.6mpg • Emissions: 252 g/km Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets. off-road conditions. For those not worried by the badge on the bonnet, or the perceived trends as to what is a ‘must buy’, the Rhino offers a superbly well-equipped, capable and price competitive option. Some competitors may be more polished, but KGM has really stepped up its game with the latest Rhino.
SPORT
46 13 - 19 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
San Miguel Bajondillo-Carihuela Fair Swimming Crossing.
Franco Cubeiro. The base tender budget is €626,356.50. Plans include an asphalt main circuit with berms and rollers, a WaveRamp for surfskate, a mini-mini bowl for beginners, pedestrian paths, landscaped areas and rest zones. Accessibility has also been built into the design, with step-free access and drainage measures included from the outset. Town hall officials say the circuit will be medium to advanced, but still open
to users of different ages and levels. It has also been drawn up to meet the standards needed for official certification, which could open the door to sanctioned events in the future. For El Pinillo, the new facility would add a modern sports attraction and give families, young riders and fans of urban sports another reason to visit the area. If delivered as planned, it could become one of Torremolinos’ most versatile sporting spaces.
MARBELLA residents have a fresh opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors thanks to Azulea, a new programme offering 63 free places on a series of guided sports activities in natural surroundings. Organised by Marbella Town Hall, the initiative encourages people to stay active while discovering some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes. The programme includes a variety of outdoor experiences designed for different fitness levels, from scenic hiking routes to activities that promote wellbeing and healthy living. Participants will
Credit: PeopleImages / Shutterstock
Sports outdoors
Marbella launches new sports programme. have the chance to explore Marbella’s mountains, countryside and coastline while exercising in a relaxed and social environment. As well as promoting physical fitness, Azulea aims to highlight the en-
vironmental value of the municipality’s natural spaces and inspire residents to make greater use of them throughout the year. The sessions are led by qualified professionals, ensuring participants can enjoy each activity safely while learning more about the local environment. Places are available free of charge. Registration for each activity will be open one month before, except for activities where Marbella is the alternate host, these will open 10 to 15 days prior.
THE Feria de San Miguel will arrive soon in Torremolinos, accompanied by a packed sporting programme that brings together competition, community and the town’s love of outdoor activity. Throughout September, residents and visitors can enjoy a wide range of events designed for all ages and abilities, transforming the run-up to the festival into a true celebration of sport. Among the highlights is the XXVI San Miguel Bajondillo-Carihuela Fair Swimming Crossing, one of the most eagerly awaited events on the calendar. Taking place in the Mediterranean waters between two of Torremolinos’ most iconic beaches, the challenge combines sporting spirit with the BASKETBALL fans and players will head to Fuengirola’s Plaza Pedro Cuevas on Sunday, September 6, for an exciting day of 3x3 action as the Provincial Basketball Circuit makes its annual stop in the city. The event, organised by the Provincial Council of Malaga, will begin at 18.00 and forms part of the municipal ‘Fuengirola en Forma’ programme, bringing together teams from across the province for a fast-paced evening of competition and community spirit. Registrations are now open through the Andalucian Basketball Federation website, giving players the chance to take part in one of the circuit’s most anticipated rounds. Fuengirola will host the event for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing its place as a regular venue in a competition that visits
town’s spectacular coastal setting. Swimmers of different levels come together to test their endurance while enjoying a unique seaside atmosphere. The swimming crossing is part of an extensive programme featuring a variety of disciplines, from athletics and team sports to family activities and traditional competitions. The initiative reflects Torremolinos’ strong sporting identity and its commitment to creating events where everyone can take part, whether competing, supporting friends or simply enjoying the atmosphere. As the Feria de San Miguel approaches, sport once again becomes a key part of the celebrations, bringing energy, excitement and a healthy dose of
Game on Credit: museum studio / Shutterstock
Generated image of the future track. TORREMOLINOS is set to build a new pump track in El Pinillo, adding a purpose-built space for cyclists, scooter riders, skateboarders and surfskaters. The council says the project is intended for daily use, while also being suitable for future competitions. The track will be built next to the Javier Imbroda sports hall on a 4,000-square-metre plot between Vicente Blanch Picot, Juan Rosa Mateo and Pasaje Manuel
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torremolinos
Credit:TorremolinosTH
El Pinillo pump track Swimming for San Miguel
Basketball takes centre stage in Fuengirola. around 20 municipalities and attracts hundreds of participants each season. Councillor for Sports Julio Rodriguez highlighted the importance of the tournament, which will be one of the final opportunities for teams to secure their place in the provincial final, scheduled for October in Malaga.
The event also reflects the city’s growing passion for 3x3 basketball, supported by new facilities and the success of the Marenostrum Fuengirola 3x3 team. With support from Club Baloncesto Salliver, the day promises sport, excitement and a great atmosphere for all ages.