Costa del Sol 6 – 12 March 2025 Issue 2070

Andalucia leads the way Largest free public WIFI network

ANDALUCIA has unveiled a digital revolution with ‘Andalucía Vuela’, Europe’s largest free public Wi-Fi network. Spearheaded by the Junta de Andalucia and powered by a deal with Vodafone, the ambitious plan will connect over 10,500 public buildings, including hospitals, schools, libraries, and centres for the elderly throughout 700 towns, from Malaga’s coast to Granada.

With 53,700 points of access and a €64 million investment, the hope is to have the entire region connected and fully online by 2030.

The digital divide has been a nagging issue in rural Andalucia for some time, especially given the terrain.

In rural Alpujarra, where broadband once lagged, students like María now stream online classes seamlessly from their village school. In buzzing Sevilla, seniors at the Macarena home for the elderly, like 78-year-old Antonio, using the network to video-call grandkids abroad, reducing the feeling of isolation. “I feel part of the world again,” he says, grinning. Meanwhile, in Jaen’s olive groves, farmers check global markets on their phones, boosting competitiveness.

Vodafone’s ‘Plan Vuela’, launched at the Mobile World Congress on March 4 in Barcelona, integrates three networks: a public Vuela Wi-Fi for the public, a corporate grid for 10,500 government o ces, and a system for smart devices.

With 27,000 access points and 800 kilometres of ca-

bling, it’s a logistical triumph, incorporating high-security encryption with hybrid cloud tech. Regional minister Antonio Sanz calls it ‘a milestone in e ciency and inclusion’.

Andalucia’s €1 billion commitment to be completed by 2027 promises more: digital skills centres, training thousands in underserved areas.

President Juanma Moreno champions it as proof that ‘no society advances without digitalisation’.

From combating depopulation to empowering eight million citizens, Andalucia isn’t just leading Spain - it’s setting a global benchmark for connectivity, one free WiFi signal at a time.

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Setting a global benchmark.

Nadal expansion Marbella

RAFA NADAL continues investing in the Costa del Sol and will open his first tennis centre in mainland Spain in Marbella. The recently retired tennis star has other projects in development in Malaga Province too, including two luxury real estate developments and sports facilities.

The plan, it seems, is to construct the tennis centre in the grounds of the Hotel Don Carlos de Marbella, owned by the Selena Group, which is currently immersed in a huge remodelling and expansion process. There are also rumours of a second tennis school on the cards for Malaga City.

There are expected to be seven clay courts for players of all ages and levels, offering the highest-quality training

programmes and classes based on the experience acquired over the years by the champion of 22 Grand Slams.

After Nadal’s training centres in Costa Mujeres (Mexico), Sani (Greece) and Hong Kong, in addition to the two academies located in Manacor and

Kuwait and the Rafa Nadal Tennis Programme recently implemented in Egypt, the Marbella project is the seventh sports centre to put into practice the training methodology of the ‘King of the Clay’.

Rafa Nadal’s alliance with businessman Abel Matutes has resulted in

two luxury housing projects already in development. The first of them, in Estepona, is comprised of 40 apartments and six beachfront villas in the Los Llanos area, and the second, 40 Rafa Nadal brand multi-family luxury homes in the area of Nagüeles.

Sierra Nevada strike

SKI fans who had planned to spend the long weekend in Sierra Nevada were left disappointed on Saturday, March 1 when unions called workers out on strike.

Negotiations over conditions between workers of Cetursa, the company that runs the resort, and their employers broke down, leading to a walkout on Saturday, March 1, with the Pradollano resort already packed with families hoping to get some ski practice in.

The slopes were completely closed, according to a statement from union officials, early Saturday, March 1, and remained closed all day and night.

According to those unions involved in calling the strike,

unless demands are met, stoppages will continue Saturday, March 8, 14, 22, 29, and again the first three Saturdays of April. Sundays so far are not affected.

Cetursa has announced that it will refund anyone affected who already has bought a forfeit, and those who have bought them online will receive an automatic

refund into their accounts. Those who bought the passes at the Pradollano ticket offices should claim their refunds online by filling in an online form via the website.

Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre.

Guide to banks in Spain Top EU Pension System

Spain’s best and worst banks ranked

PEOPLE love simple, straightforward banking. So which banks are truly meeting those needs in Spain? Let’s look at the winners and losers.

A study published by the Spanish Consumer Association (OCU,) has revealed the best banks in Spain according to their customers. They asked thousands of bank users how they felt about their banking experience. Spoiler alert: it’s not the giants of the banking world that are leading the pack. Instead, it’s the newer, online-based banks that are stealing the spotlight, offering low fees, excellent customer service, and ease of use. Let’s break down what makes these banks so popular and why some of the biggest names in the business are left in the dust.

The fall of the traditional banking giants

For the big players - think BBVA, Banco Santander, Banco Sabadell, CaixaBank, and Unicaja - the news is grim. Their ratings are lower than the average, with many customers criticising the lack of customer support, convoluted fee structures, and appalling web experiences. These old-school institutions, laden with physical branches, are struggling to compete in an increasingly digital world.

SPAIN ranks among the top EU countries in pension income, with retirees receiving 77 per cent of their late-career earnings, according to Eurostat’s Aggregate Replacement Ratio, with data extracted in June 2024.

This places Spain just behind Greece (78 per cent) and ahead of Italy (75 per cent), making Southern Europe one of the most pension-friendly regions.

However, the gender gap in Spain’s pension system is striking. Spanish men receive an average of 83 per cent of their pre-retirement salary, while women receive just 63 per cent. This makes Spain one of the most challenging countries in the EU for female retirees. However, just last year, Spain introduced the Parity Law to address gender inequality.

Across the EU, pensioners receive an average of 58 per cent of their late-career earnings, but disparities are evident. At the lower end, Croatia (35 per cent), Lithuania (36 per cent), and Ireland (39 per cent) provide the least pension income relative to wages. Among the EU’s largest economies, Germany’s rate is just 49 per cent, significantly lower than France’s 59 per cent.

While some of these banks are making efforts to improve, the results are clear - customers are voting with their feet, opting for newer, leaner alternatives.

Top of the class: Newer, online banks take the crown

Don’t be fooled by the big names - it’s the smaller, tech-savvy banks that are getting the highest ratings. Caja Rural de Asturias tops the list, followed by the international N26 and Caixa Guissona. ING and Pibank round out the top five, offering customers a level of service that’s hard to beat in Spain.

Interestingly, the big banks, not so much. No big surprises here: the traditional banks have failed to meet the mark for many customers.

Spain allocates a significant portion of its GDP to pensions, following a broader Southern European trend. According to Eurostat’s social protection statistics, old-age pensions accounted for 12.9 per cent of the EU’s GDP in 2021, with Greece (16.4 per cent) and Italy (16.3 per cent) leading the way.

Spain’s pension expenditure remains substantial, ensuring higher-than-average replacement rates for retirees.

EU clamps down on cash Spanish airline Volotea steps in

New rules to curb crime

THE EU is tightening its grip on cold, hard cashslapping a continent-wide cap on how much can be splashed in one go. From 2027, payments in physical euros will be restricted to a maximum of €10,000 across all 27 member states. The move aims to crack down on money laundering, shady deals, and tax dodgers who love to keep things off the books.

For years, different nations have played

by their own rules - some strict, others as loose as a lottery winner on payday. While Spain and France already have tight caps (limiting cash transactions to just €1,000), others like Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands have let citizens pay in cash without a second thought. Now, Brussels is stepping in to level the playing fieldand not everyone’s happy about it.

Critics claim the move is just another step towards a cashless society where every penny is traceable. Privacy campaigners argue that, while the measure targets crime, it also penalises law-abiding citizens

who prefer to pay in notes rather than plastic.

What does it mean for you?

If you’re in Spain, you won’t notice much difference - the country already enforces a tough €1,000 cap on cash payments between individuals and businesses. But in nations where cash has flowed freely, this is a game-changer. Belgium, Italy, and Portugal will need to slash their current €3,000 limit, while Poland - where transactions of up to €15,000 are allowed - will be hit hardest by the new rules.

Love it or loathe it, from 2027, if you’re planning a big-ticket cash splurge, you’d better think twice… or switch to card!

THOSE travelling to Spain could soon have alternative flight options as Spanish airline Volotea has offered to take over some of Ryanair’s scrapped regional routes.

The announcement follows Ryanair’s decision to cut its Spanish services by 18 per cent this year, equating to around 800,000 fewer seats.

Ryanair is set to completely withdraw from Valladolid and Jerez airports while also reducing operations in Santiago, Vigo, Zaragoza, Asturias, and Santander. The Irish airline has blamed rising airport charges and insufficient incentives from Spain’s airport operator, Aena, for its decision. Volotea’s CEO, Carlos Muñoz, assured that the airline is prepared to step in. “If Ryanair leaves regional airports, no one should worry because Volotea is there,” he stated.

The airline, which specialises in connecting small and medium-sized cities, currently operates from Asturias and Bilbao and plans to open two more bases in Spain within the next five years.

Volotea has reported its most profitable year yet, with sales growing 17 per cent year-on-year, generating €811 million in revenue.

Meanwhile, Volotea has been caught up in a legal dispute over extra airline fees. Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs recently fined five airlines a combined €179 million for charging for hand luggage, seat selection, and ticket printing. Ryanair received the largest penalty at €107 million, while Volotea was fined just over €1 million.

Cash crackdown: Brussels lays down the law.

Not all Spanish banks are created equal: Your guide to banks in Spain.

Credit: Shutterstock, M21Perfect

Flu-Covid jab ends

ANDALUCIA has closed the curtain on its 2024-2025 flu and Covid vaccination campaign, with a huge 1.7 million flu jabs and 839,635 Covid shots given out across the region. Kicking off on September 30, 2024, and wrapping up on March 3, 2025, the campaign saw an impressive 91.6 per cent of flu doses and 75.4 per cent of Covid vaccines put to use. The region has once again lived up to its reputation as a leader in public health protection.

Malaga emerged as one of the standout provinces, delivering 308,314 flu vaccines and 150,676 Covid jabs, putting it neck and neck with Sevilla at the top of the leaderboard. Among residents aged 60 and over, 47 per cent got their flu shot, while 27.5 per cent opted for Covid protection - figures

that reflect a strong commitment from older adults to keeping themselves in top health.

Priority was given to the most vulnerable groups, with those aged 90 and above seeing a flu jab coverage of 72.3 per cent and a Covid vaccination rate of 46.5 per cent. The trend continued for the 80-89 age group, with 70.6 per cent opting for the flu vaccine and 45.5 per cent for Covid protection. The 70-79 bracket followed suit with 61.7 per cent flu and 35.9 per cent Covid coverage, while among the 60-69 demographic, the numbers dropped slightly to 38 per cent and 20.3 per cent, respectively.

Perhaps the biggest win came from care homes, where 88.5 per cent of residents received flu protection and 80.6 per cent got their Covid jab.

5,000 new contributors

MALAGA is on a roll. The province has smashed records for February with an impressive 4,931 new workers signing up for Social Security, marking yet another step forward in its ongoing surge.

According to the latest figures the total number of Social Security contributors now stands at 708,684, a staggering 24,569 more than a year ago.

Natalia Sánchez, Executive Vice President and General Secretary of the Confederation of Business Owners of Malaga (CEM), welcomed the numbers, calling them “positive” and highlighting the province’s economic dynamism.

She noted that the growth mirrored last year’s figures but pointed out that in 2024, the upcoming Semana Santa may have influenced employment patterns.

“We continue to see a shift away from seasonal tourism while sectors like construction are steadily reducing unemployment, a trend we’ve observed since last autumn,” Sánchez stated.

Despite economic uncertainty, local businesses aren’t hitting the brakes on hiring. Sánchez acknowledged the obstacles they face - red tape, high taxes, labour regulations, and legal uncertainty - but stressed that companies are still creating jobs even without a corresponding rise in productivity.

“Businesses are betting on employment despite global economic uncertainty and political instability,” she warned.

While the steady employment rise is encouraging, the CEM insists that Malaga’s business sector must continue to grow in size and competitiveness.

Sánchez emphasised the need for a business-friendly ecosystem, warning against excessive taxes and rising labour costs, which could stifle competitiveness.

Nearly 5,000 new workers join Social Security in record February.

Credit: Shutterstock, pixinoo

Andalucia wraps up flu-Covid jab drive – Malaga among top performing regions.

Credit: Shutterstock, MAGNIFIER

Fire brigade empty pools

BENALMADENA Council has announced that they have collected almost a million litres of water by emptying swimming pools on the Vela del Mar urbanisation.

The donors, so far have been the urbanisation management and the pools of two private households. The water is destined to be used for washing down the streets and the irrigation of parks and garden areas.

The councillor for Parks, Gardens and Water has thanked the donors contacting the council and organising for the re brigade to pump the swimming pools dry of water, rather than simply allowing it to pour down the drain.

It has also been reported that Hotel Benalma Costa del Sol will also be allowing Benalmadena’s

re brigade to remove the water from their pool too. This is not the rst time this method of water saving has been used in the Costa del Sol town.

In 2024, when the severe drought was announced, local hotels began letting the council have their old swimming pool water for the same, like the 320,000 litres from the Mac

Puerto Marina Hotel in Benalmadena Costa and the Andalusia Apartments. Most of those collections went towards maintaining the Parque de la Paloma.

The initiative is not the only one Benalmadena Council has adopted. Save Water awareness campaigns, digital network supplies, as well as investments in piping to aid garden irrigation.

Ich liebe Torremolinos

TORREMOLINOS has seen significant growth in German tourism during the last year, according to Mayor Margarita del Cid.

The mayor is at the ITB, one of the world’s biggest tourist fairs in Berlin, which has been instrumental in drawing in more German tourists to the area.

In 2024, around 53,000 German tourists stayed at Torremolinos hotels, an increase of 18.9 per cent compared to 2023. Their average stay also increased by 16.7 per cent, from 5.4 days to 6.3 days.

German tourism generated a total of 330,000 overnight stays in 2024, an increase of about 85,000 compared to the previous year, and 34.4 per cent (almost 21 points more than the average of the Costa del Sol), mainly supported by the increase in the average stay.

Torremolinos is the Costa del Sol destination with the highest growth in overnight stays of Germans. The economic impact of the German tourist last year was close to €54 million, with an average daily spending of €162.40.

The attractiveness of Torremolinos doesn’t stop at the beach, though. For the Germans, another big pull is the sporting facilities that the town offers.

Sports have played an important part in this year’s Torremolinos promotions at the ITB, highlighting the investments made in its three new race tracks, a focus on active tourism, and a centre for mountain biking and races and mountain routes especially designed for both leisurely and more demanding exercise.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benalmadena.

Mayor Margarita del Cid in Berlin.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torremolinos.

Free water recycling.

Los Monteros reopens

THE emblematic Hotel Los Monteros in Marbella has just reopened its doors after the expansion and renovation of its facilities.

The Marbella classic was originally inaugurated in 1962 and had gone through various difficulties until the appearance of its new owners, Kimpton. The new Kimpton Los Monteros has opened, elegantly reviving its historical greatness with a cool and casual ambience. It has 195 stylishly designed rooms, including 60 suites, most with large terraces and sea views.

The transformation, which combines classic and contemporary elements, has been in the hands of the award-winning Barcelona studio El Equipo Creativo. Designed by Estudio Cristina Carulla, natural materials are combined, and intense colours stand out, capturing the essence of

the Mediterranean culture.

There are gardens, spaces, and versatile lounges, as well as a large lounge with a capacity for 250 guests, a panoramic roof terrace, and an exclusive beach club. Guests will enjoy new touches like the Kimpton Kickstart morning coffee and tea service, the Kimpton Social-Social hour, yoga mats in rooms, and pet-friendly policies.

“We present a fresh and vibrant energy, fusing the legacy of Los Monteros with the distinct essence of Kimpton, celebrating our local culture and gastronomy, and offering exclusive experiences,” said Merry Antoja, general manager of the hotel.

As far as gastronomy is concerned, the award-winning Michelin star holder José Carlos García is curating menus as Executive Chef. Prices start from €340 per night.

Starting year with a bang

MARBELLA’S shores have proven they can still draw the tourists. As official figures from the National Statistics Institute (INE) reveal, the city welcomed 1,500 more visitors in January 2025 than the same month in 2024. This early-year boost points to a glittering season ahead, with international guests leading the charge.

A total of 30,198 people chose to check into Marbella’s hotels this January, including 22,223 travellers from abroad. According to the city’s Director General for Tourism, Laura de Arce, these stats demonstrate ‘a solid growth of the city in this sector’. De Arce lauded this upward trend, proudly highlighting Marbella’s ‘position as one of Spain’s most attractive destinations’. In a record-breaking turn, the average price per

Marbella starts the year with a bang: 1,500 more visitors than last January 2025.

room shot up to €158.79, which is nearly €14 more than last year - an all-time high since records began. De Arce beamed, “We continue to hold the highest recorded price per room, a sign of Marbella’s appeal.”

Revenue per available room (RevPar) has also soared, reflecting a shrewd blend of increased demand and strategic pricing. De Arce described it as ‘an indicator key to hotel profitabi-

lity’, noting it underlines the long-term strength of the local hospitality sector. January brought yet another cause for celebration: more people are employed in Marbella’s hotels and hospitality services than at any other time on record for the month. “It reaffirms tourism’s role as Marbella’s economic powerhouse,” De Arce said. “We’re seeing continued growth and expect a fantastic high season.”

Poolside at the emblematic hotel.

CONCERN grows for

John Bruce Vardy, last seen leaving hospital three weeks ago.

A British man living rough in Torremolinos has vanished without a trace, leaving family and friends desperate for answers.

John Bruce Vardy, who had been staying in the coastal town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, was last seen three weeks ago after being discharged from the Hospital Virgen de la Victoria in Malaga. Since then, there has been no sign of him.

His brother, deeply concerned, has taken to social media in a desperate bid for information.

Facebook user Emily Paige Longman posted Mr Vardy’s picture in various groups on his brother’s behalf to spread awareness and increase the chances of finding him.

Local authorities have yet to confirm whether an official missing person report has been filed.

With no known ad-

Missing Brit in Torremolinos

dress, John’s disappearance poses a challenging case for search efforts.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact the authorities or reach out via the social media

appeal.

If you were in the Torremolinos or Malaga area in recent weeks and think you might have seen John, speak up - it could make all the difference to John and to his family and friends.

Marbella-born Stranger Things star hits back

BRITISH actress calls out industry pressure and social media scrutiny over her changing looks.

Millie Bobby Brown, the Stranger Things star who first captured hearts as a telekinetic child in the Netflix hit, has had enough of the endless chatter about her appearance. The 21-yearold, who was born in Marbella in 2004 to British parents, has fired back at critics questioning her evolving style, image, and even supposed cosme tic tweaks.

In a no-nonsense Instagram video, Brown laid it out strai ght: “I started in this indus try when I was 10. I grew up in front of the world, and for some reason, people can’t grow up with me.”

The young star, who has transformed from child actor to busi nesswoman - complete with a beauty brand and a high-profile engagement - has fa ced increasing scru tiny over her blon de locks, make-up choices, and a

rumoured aesthetic ‘glow-up’. Social media has been awash with comments dissecting her every red carpet appearance, prompting Brown to speak out against the relentless spotlight on young women in the entertainment industry.

Though she hasn’t directly addressed whether she’s undergone any cosmetic enhancements, her statement makes it clear she won’t be apologising for maturing - nor for how she presents herself. Brown is making one thing clear: she’s not here to shrink herself for anyone’s expec-

While the Stranger Things era may be coming to a close, it looks like Millie Bobby Brown is only just getting

Brother searching: Mystery surrounds disappearance of homeless Brit in Torremolinos.

Credit: Emily Paige Longman, Facebook.

Marbella-born Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown hits back at critics.

Credit: Shutterstock, Tinseltown

Benahavis world Trials GP

THE 2025 TrialGP World Championship returns in April to Benahavis. In a matter of a few weeks, the tranquil mountainside retreat will ll with the buzz of 250cc motors jumping from rock to rock and over hurdles and crevasses.

The Andalucian town will wave the starting ag to the world’s top competition of a motorsport speciality as technical as it is impressively spectacular.

More than 80 riders from a variety of categories will compete on a single track. Among them, Toni Bou stands out, the most lauded rider in the history of Trial and possibly in any sports discipline, with 36 world titles (18 in TrialGP and 18 in X-Trial). It is very likely that Bou will arrive in Benahavis with his 37th title

under his arm after the conclusion of the X-Trial 2025.

Along with him, the current world runner-up, also Spanish, Berta Abellán, will be looking for her rst title in TrialGP Women, while in Trial2, Trial2 Women, and Trial3, the ght for glory will be completely open.

Spain will have a wide representation of pilots, facing rivals from countries such as France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and Norway.

The event is organised by the Benahavis Motorcyclist Sports Club, with the support of the Andalucian Motorcycle Federation, the Royal Spanish Motorcycle Federation, and Benahavis Council. The championship runs from April 4 to 6.

Marbella’s reservoir surges past 70 per cent

RAIN may be a downer for beachgoers, but for Marbella’s La Concepcion reservoir, it comes as a huge relief. After months of much-needed downpours, the water level has soared to 72.61 per cent of its total capacity - the best gures seen in years.

According to o cial gures by Hidrosur, the reservoir is now holding 41.78 cubic hectometres (hm³) of water at the time of writing.

That’s over 25 hm³ more than this time last year, a di erence that could mean the world for the Costa del Sol’s water security. It’s not just good news - it’s the best news in the province. While other reservoirs have improved, some are still struggling to stay a oat.

The Guadalhorce reservoir is at a worrying 13.35 per cent, while La Viñuela isn’t faring much better at 21.94 per cent. The only

other reservoir managing to top 50 per cent capacity is Casasola, currently at 52.62 per cent.

With more rain on the way, these gures could improve further. However, locals are being urged to brace for a fresh bout of heavy rain early this week. While Marbella’s reservoir may be making a splash, it’s clear the region still needs plenty more rainfall to fully quench its thirst.

Embalse de la Concepcion on the Rio Verde between Marbella and Istan, Costa del Sol. Marbella’s La Concepcion reservoir surges past 70 per cent as rain brings muchneeded relief.

Credit: Shutterstock, Robalito

World Trials Championship in Benahavís.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benahavís

Smart tourism

ANDALUCIA is using big data, AI, and digital tools to modernise tourism, improve visitor experiences, and enhance sustainability. From smart hotels and AI-driven travel recommendations to real-time data analytics for businesses, the region is using technology to balance growth with environmental and economic concerns.

The Andalucian government and private sector are harnessing data to understand visitor behaviour, optimise pricing, and improve infrastructure. Andalucia Lab is central to this, providing tourism businesses with insights from ight arrivals, hotel bookings, and event data. An AI-powered chatbot helps businesses decide the best times to operate based on trends.

Costa del Sol’s tourism intelligence platform,

launched in 2020, aggregates public and private sector data - from airline bookings to hotel occupancy - to re ne promotional strategies. If UK travellers show increased interest in birdwatching, marketing shifts to highlight Andalucia’s nature spots. If Germans suddenly get into trainspotting, the system adapts to highlight the area’s tra-

in museum and railway infrastructure. The system also tracks carbon footprints to support sustainability e orts.

A major challenge has been and continues to be ensuring small and medium-sized businesses bene t from digitalisation. The government is expanding training through Andalucia Lab and smart city initiatives to bridge

Women’s Day march

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, commemorated on March 8, as with previous years, there will be a march of solidarity through the centre of Malaga City under the banner ‘Our rights endangered - we respond’.

On March 8, 2024, the police counted around 15,000 attendees at the feminist march through the centre. With a similar route, through the central streets of the capital. Then, the march was in the afternoon. Banners, flags and songs dominated from the beginning of the march until the end.

One group of demonstrators marched dressed in white clothes with their faces covered by white masks in memory of the women murdered in the previous year.

this gap. As Lisardo Morán from Turismo Andaluz noted during an interview with Spanish publication El País, ‘Smart tourism networks are key to innovation, sustainability, and long-term growth.’

Andalucia is positioning itself at the forefront of smart tourism, ensuring a data-informed future that bene ts both visitors and the local economy.

On Saturday, March 8, 2025, the demonstration will take place beginning in the Plaza de la Merced from 12am. Look out for the Soroptimists’ banner, a favourite of ours at Euro Weekly News . The march will then move on through the city centre to the Plaza de la Constitución.

The itinerary runs along Calle Alcazabilla, Calle Císter, Calle Molina Larios, Plaza de la Marina, Calle Larios until it ends in the Plaza de la Constitución, where a manifesto will be read out to the crowd.

If the weather is too inclement, there may be other events closer to home. In Las Lagunas, Mijas, for example, there is a Women’s Day event at 12pm in the Teatro Manuel España.

How data is reshaping Andalucia’s visitor experience.

Boost for local sports

TORREMOLINOS is putting its money where its mouth is when it comes to supporting local sport, opening the doors for athletes and sports clubs to apply for a share of a €43,500 cash pot aimed at helping them compete at official events.

The council has opened up a 20-day window for applications. Local sports stars, clubs, and federations can throw their hats in the ring for financial support, as the town hhall rolls out a competitive grant scheme to back their participation in official competitions and sporting

events held in the town.

The official guidelines and application forms are already available on the Torremolinos funding portal (transparencia.torremolinos.es), and all applications must be submitted electronically via the General Electronic Register of the Torremolinos Town Hall. But it’s not just a free-forall. The funding isn’t handed out on a first-come, first-served basis - it’s allocated based on a points system, taking into account factors like sporting achievements, event organisation within Torremolinos, and the number of

participants involved.

The grants will help cover the cost of competition fees, travel, accommodation, referee payments, venue hire, and medical services - all crucial expenses for athletes and clubs trying to compete at a higher level.

The maximum payout per individual athlete is €2,000, while clubs and federations can secure up to €10,000. However, the final amounts will be determined by a prorated system based on the number of successful applicants and their assessed value under the points system.

Solar Metro

MALAGA Metro has completed the third and last phase of its pho tovoltaic solar plant, which is generating electricity from 3,719 panels.

An investment of €1.9 million has enabled the installation of the solar plant, which will be pumping out a massive 27 per cent of the electricity needed to run the underground train service. The presentation of the project, which was accompanied by the Minister of Development, Rocío Díaz, is a significant step in the Me tro’s commitment to energy efficiency.

The solar plant, which occupies almost 15,000 square metre s, has doubled the installed and production capacity of the first two phases.

The solar plant now has a total power of 2,068.7 Kwp and an annual energy forecast produced of 3,116 Mwh.

This energy self-sufficiency will enable the Metro to depend less on the conventional power grid, which is relevant considering the growth in consumption experienced with the extension of the suburban to the historic centre and the incorporation of four new trains since

September 2023.

Despite these milestones and the growth of the metro network, the ratio of electricity consumption per annual traveller and the ratio of annual electricity consumption for each kilometre travelled by the train fleet has decreased with more energy efficient action taken.

With the implementation of this third phase, the Metro will be completely self-sufficient, with zero electricity demand in the middle hours of the day.

Cash boost for local sports: Torremolinos opens grant applications for athletes and clubs.

Credit: Shutterstock, Vitalii Biliak

Mayor Paco de la Torre, and Rocío Díaz.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Malaga.

Marbella’s €20m plan

MARBELLA is set for a major facelift, with a €20 million urban regeneration plan aimed at transforming public spaces and promoting social inclusion. The ambitious project, backed by European funding, has been given the green light by the local government, paving the way for a bid to secure up to 85 per cent of the costs through the EDIL (Estrategia de Desarrollo Integrado Local) programme.

Speaking about the initiative, municipal spokesperson Félix Romero outlined the core mission of the Convive Marbella 2030 plan, which aims to create sports facilities and social hubs that foster community togetherness, particularly in areas most in need. The strategy aligns with the broader principles of the Agenda Urbana 2030, ensuring no neighbourhood is left behind.

With the EU covering the lion’s share of the investment, the Marbella Council will step in to fund the remaining 15 per cent. The projects fall under two main categories: Plan Reactiva, which commands a €4.5 million budget, and Plan Red San Pedro Alcántara, the larger initiative at €15.4 million.

Romero stressed that many of these initiatives are already well-developed, having undergone community consultation and, in some cases, begun the contracting phase using municipal funds. If Marbella secures the European grants, these funds will be reallocated to other key projects, ensuring maximum benefit for residents.

If approved, Marbella’s ambitious plans could reshape the city for generations to come, making it more inclusive, connected, and forward-thinking than ever before.

Big success in 48 hours

THE fourth Senda Litoral Half Marathon ‘Ikos Andalucia Trophy,’ taking place on Sunday, May 4, has reached 200 registrations in under 48 hours. This milestone was achieved thanks to its discounted entry promotion, priced at €18. The rapid uptake highlights the growing interest in this key Andalucian event, which is quickly becoming a must for running enthusiasts. The registration fee is now set at €22 until April 13 or until all spots are filled. This year’s edition promises exciting new features. For the first time, the race will be broadcast live, allowing friends, family, and fans to follow the race in real time. The prize pool has also been increased, rewarding top finishers in both the overall and local categories to attract elite athletes.

An updated runner’s pack will include a high-quality technical shirt, exclusive gifts, and sports gear from sponsors. Every finisher will receive a specially designed medal to commemorate their achievement. The race will conclude with a post-race event, featuring a popular paella and live DJ music, turning the finish line into a lively celebration.

The 21.097 kilometres route offers a diverse and challenging mix of terrain, from the coastal path to Estepona’s old town. The event, organised by Estepona Town Hall and the Club de Atletismo de Estepona, is part of the Spanish Athletics Federation calendar and will be carefully monitored by certified judges. Free shuttle buses will be available for participants.

Marbella unveils bold €20m urban regeneration plan.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella.

Half marathon runner.

Credit: Club de Atletismo de Estepona

Game-changing Help save baby Abdu

A TWO-YEAR-OLD boy from Cameroon has been given a second chance at life after a critical heart operation in Spain. But now, his future hangs in the balance.

Born with a severe congenital heart defect known as tetralogy of Fallot, little Abdu faced a bleak future in Cameroon, where medical resources are scarce. In Cameroon, the operation was out of reach, making the condition a likely death sentence.

Thanks to the charity Más nunca es menos, Abdu was brought to Spain, where doctors at Malaga’s Materno Infantil Hospital performed the crucial surgery. His life was saved - but his journey is far from over.

While recovering from his operation, Abdu found a home with Inma Alcantara, a local woman who took him in and cared for him as one of her own. As the weeks passed, their connection deepened.

Although Abdu’s biological family loves him dearly, the reality is harsh - returning to

Credit: Abdu Costa del Sol Child Adoption Plea- https://www.gofundme.com/f/adopcion-abdu

Cameroon would mean losing access to the medical follow-ups essential for his survival. His only hope of staying in Spain lies in his uncle, a legal resident, adopting him. But there’s a catch: the adoption process carries a price tag of €3,500 - far beyond what his family can afford.

Determined not to let bureaucracy stand in the way of Abdu’s future, Inma has

paign to cover the costs. She’s calling on the generosity of the Costa del Sol community and beyond to help secure a safe and healthy life for Abdu.

If you want to help give two-year-old Abdu the future he deserves, you can donate via the following link: https:// www.gofundme.com/f/adopcion-abdu

You have the power to change an innocent child’s life

SPORT, education, and senior services in focus.

The new Plan Reactiva is set to bring a game-changing new athletics stadium to La Campana, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella. Touted as a landmark project for the area, the facility is expected to be a major draw for local athletes and sports enthusiasts. With the tender process about to begin, it won’t be long before construction gets underway, according to local sources.

para Personas Mayores and the Centro de Servicios Sociales in La Campana. The enhancements will introduce new multi-purpose rooms and workshop spaces, broadening the scope of activities available to senior citizens.

Supporting the community’s ageing population, the plan also includes the expansion of the Centro de Participacion Activa

Education is another key pillar of Plan Reactiva, with a targeted effort to tackle school absenteeism in La Campana and the Las Albarizas neighbourhoods. The local government is determined to improve integration and learning outcomes for young people, ensuring that no child falls through the cracks.

Game-changing new athletics stadium planned for La Campana, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella.

Malaga mother’s fight to save baby Abdu after life-saving heart surgery.

Marbella could host Davis Cup

COULD Marbella soon be the battleground for Spain’s next Davis Cup campaign?

The Spanish Tennis Federation is weighing up the possibility of staging the crucial last-16 tie against Denmark at the iconic Puente Romano Tennis Club, with the clash set for September 13-14.

surface would need replacing with a full clay court.

Puente Romano has history on its side, having successfully hosted Spain’s 2022 Davis Cup tie against Romania, where rising stars Carlos Alcaraz and Alejandro Davidovich made their competition debuts.

If Spain sees off the Danes, they’ll book a ticket to the Final 8 in Bologna, where the world’s best will battle it out from November 17-23. But first, they must navigate this home tie - and they have a big say in where it’s played.

Spain head into this clash as clear favourites. The 2025 Davis Cup format will see two singles matches, one doubles encounter, and then two final singles battles - all decided in best-of-three-set contests, a shift from the old five-set format.

As hosts, Spain get to choose the surface, and all signs point to clay - the country’s favoured battleground. Two locations are under consideration:

Puente Romano’s Manolo Santana Centre Court in Marbella, a proven Davis Cup venue that can expand capacity with temporary stands.

Logroño’s bullring, where the sandy

The prospect of another Marbella showdown has tennis fans buzzing, with the venue’s sun-kissed setting and top-tier facilities making it a natural choice. Will Puente Romano get the nod, or will Logroño’s bullring be transformed into a gladiatorial clay court? The Spanish Tennis Federation will soon make its call. Spain’s Davis Cup dream is very much alive.

Slight dip in jobless figures

IT’S a small win for jobseekers on the Costa del Sol as unemployment figures dipped slightly in February, a month usually known for being a slow burner on the job market. Thanks to post-sales hiring sprees and early preparations for the summer tourism boom, jobless numbers saw a modest drop, according to fresh data from the Servicio Andaluz de Empleo (SAE).

Across Malaga Province, 121,095 people remained unemployed by the end of February - 391 fewer than in January. While not a groundbreaking shift, the numbers suggest businesses are beginning to gear up for the region’s peak season, which traditiona-

lly brings a flood of seasonal contracts.

The biggest drop was seen in Torremolinos, where 79 people moved off the unemployment register, followed by Marbella (-68), Fuengirola (-33), Estepona (-21), and Manilva (-29).

However, not all areas shared in the good fortune. Mijas saw a slight increase of six unemployed people, while Benahavis added four to its jobless tally.

Here’s how the numbers played out across the region:

Marbella: 8,099 (-68)

Mijas: 6,057 (+6)

Fuengirola: 5,002 (-33)

Estepona: 3,994 (-21)

Benalmadena: 4,580 (-13)

Torremolinos: 4,872 (-79)

Manilva: 971 (-29)

Benahavís: 198 (+4)

Casares: 398 (-4)

Ojén: 229 (-5)

While these shifts may seem minor, February is typically a sluggish month for employment, making any improvement a positive sign.

The slight dip suggests that businesses are starting to plan ahead for the influx of tourists in spring and summer, when seasonal jobs in hospitality, retail, and tourism spike.

Costa del Sol sees slight dip in jobless figures as high season looms.

Marbella in the running to host Davis Cup showdown as Spain eyes Final 8 spot.

FOMO Fever: How the digital age turned us into obsessed, anxious voyeurs

HOOKED on the highlights of others’ lives, we scroll, we envy, we despair - welcome to the addiction no one wants to admit!

Why wasn’t I invited? Why didn’t I go to that meeting? Oh, how much I missed!

Read this with curiosity, not FOMO-induced anxiety. The name itself sounds like a villain from a movie saga, right? And yes, it can be just as evil. So, let’s talk about this time-wasting, soul-sucking affliction of the digital age.

Do you ever feel like you need to be everywhere at once? Welcome to FOMO - Fear of Missing Out. I feel it too! Especially when I see a friend enjoying a Bon Jovi concert in Rio. What? I missed it?!

FOMO is that itchy feeling of exclusion - like the universe forgot to invite you to its latest, greatest event. It’s the fear of not being needed, not being there when it all went down. And the worst part? Social media shoves it in our faces, in high definition, with filters.

We live at the mercy of algorithms, feeding on curated glimpses of others’ so-called perfect lives. Everyone is a modern trailblazer, sprinting through life, imposing their urgency on the rest of us. But urgency for what? And more importantly, why must we always press that call-to-action button?

The cure for FOMO? Reconnect with reality.

Let’s start with small steps. Ban phones at dinner. Look at your partner, your friend, your cat - talk to them. Limit screen time. The more we scroll, the more we suffer over things that don’t even matter. Most of the time, we’re not missing anything - except our own lives while mindlessly double-tapping someone else’s.

FROM COAST TO

So, FOMO, be gone! Pack your bags, exit my brain, and leave my phone. From now on, I choose joy over jealousy, presence over paranoia. And music - because that never makes me feel like I’m missing out.

Funny Guide: Overcoming FOMO for the chronically jealous

Convince yourself you never wanted to go anyway

“Oh, a luxury yacht party? Sounds awful. I’d much rather be home watching my ceiling fan spin.” Lie to yourself - confidence is key!

Post fake flexes like a pro

Missed an exclusive event? Post a random sunset pic with “What a night! No words. Just vibes.” Let them wonder. (Even if ‘what a night’ just means cereal in bed.)

Remember: Your wallet is winning

They’re sipping overpriced cocktails in Ibiza. You? You saved $1,000 and still have working liver cells. Who’s the real winner here? (Hint: It’s you, financially stable legend!)

So, wave goodbye to FOMO! I was miserable while you lasted, but now? I’m too busy enjoying life.

And before I go, here’s a reminder: “It’s okay to take a moment From an anxious, fractured mind. The world will not stop turning While you get realigned.”

- ‘The Mountain”’ by Laura Ding-Edwards

‘Plan Red’ San Pedro Alcantara

PLAN RED San Pedro Alcantara: A cultural and digital boost for the town.

Part of Marbella’s bold new €20 million urban regeneration plan, the Plan Red San Pedro Alcantara promises to be a big cultural and digital boost for the town.

One of the standout features of Plan Red San Pedro Alcantara is the construction of a cutting-edge library and digital centre in Plaza Jorge Lorenzo Tejada. Designed to be more than just a traditional library, this multi-purpose space will include a rooftop terrace and a digital training programme aimed at closing the digital divide in the community. Urban regeneration will also extend to Calle Cocle, where outdated infrastructure will be modernised with improved paving and accessibility measures, making the area more pedestrian-friendly and inclusive.

If it’s finally approved, Marbella’s ambitious plans could provide a much-needed boost for the next few years.

An Irish sporting revolution

Malaga Gaelic Football team train in Malaga, but often travel around the Costa del Sol and Andalucia to play tournaments and train. It’s a friendly, welcoming social group centred around Gaelic Football. All levels are welcome.

Forget the usual five-a-side or the gym grind - there’s a new sporting craze heating up in Malaga, and it’s bringing people together from all walks of life. Celta Malaga Gaelic Football Club is proving that you don’t have to be Irish (or even have the faintest clue about Gaelic football) to get stuck in, have a laugh, and make amazing new friends.

This fast-paced, high-energy sport is part rugby, part football, and all about team spirit. And with trips to Lisbon, Sevilla, and Gibraltar on the cards, it’s not just about what happens on the pitchit’s a whole lifestyle.

Based at Olimpica Victoriana pitch, just a stone’s throw from the city centre, the club offers training sessions twice a

week for both men and women, catering for absolute beginners and seasoned athletes alike.

For the ladies - Whether you’re a total newbie or have the footwork of a pro, the women’s panel is a mix of training tailored for all levels. They compete across Andalucia, Iberia, and even Europe, making it a seriously exciting way to keep fit.

For the gents - Men’s training follows the same format, with separate levels depending on experience and in-house matches to sharpen skills before tournaments. If you’ve ever wanted to play a sport that’s as much about camaraderie as competition, this is it.

Ready to join the team? Celta Malaga is waiting.

Head over to: www.celtamalaga.com

You can also find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/celtamalagagaa

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

COAST

Credit Shutterstock Monster Ztudio

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

What is the new Plan Red San Pedro Alcantara?

Celta Malaga Gaelic Football.

THE Celta

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY:

The Origins

ON March 8, women around the world are celebrated for their contribution to society. That’s because this date is ocially recognised as ‘International Women’s Day’. This acknowledgement is largely down to one woman, Clara Zetkin, who was deeply involved in politics for most of her adult life. She was considered to be a German Marxist theorist, communist activist, and, most of all, advocate for women’s rights. This was demonstrated by her role as the editor of the SDP women’s newspaper Die Gleichheit (Equality) between 1891 and 1917. In addition, she undertook the role of leader of the newly founded ‘Women’s O ce’ at the SDP in 1907. In fact, this latter role led to her participation in the second International Conference of Working Women, which took place in Copenhagen in 1910. This is a very poignant event in

Key Events

SINCE its inception in 2011, the concept of International Women’s Day (IWD) and all that it stands for has spread far and wide. Some of the key milestones in its calendar are as follows:

1913: First observance of IWD in Russia, with socialist women organising protests and rallies demanding better working conditions, equal rights and the right to vote.

1922: Vladimir Lenin declares March 8 IWD in honour of the role women played in the Russian Revolution.

1975: United Nations marks IWD, setting 1975 as International Women’s Year.

history because it is where the idea for a ‘women’s day’ was rst proposed. Zetkin put forward the notion that there should be a speci c day on which women are celebrated every year in every country More than 100 women from 17 countries attended that momentous conference.

Collectively, they represented unions, socialist parties, and working women’s clubs, and even included the rst three women ever to be elected to the Finnish parliament. They wholeheartedly supported the proposal, and International Women’s Day was founded.

While no speci c date was chosen, International Women’s Day was honoured for the rst time on March 19, 2011, with Austria (Austro-Hungary), Denmark, Germany and Switzerland participating.

2001: IWD website launches as a free, not-for-pro t, user-generated resource hub to ‘Support the Supporters’ and grow mainstream awareness of IWD.

2003: IWD march in Mexico City on March 8 becomes one of the largest IWD events globally, with hundreds of thousands of participants. March 9 is #UNDÍASINNOSOTRAS, (A Day Without Us), where women ‘disappear’ by not going to work, school or public spaces

2005: Google launches its rst IWD Google Doodle.

2019: The largest international IWD concert, ‘Global Citizen Festival: Power of Women,’ is held in New York City.

Accelerate Action

EVERY year, International Women’s Day is centred around a theme, and 2025 is no di erent. This year’s theme is the very powerful ‘Accelerate Action’. It is positioned as a worldwide call to acknowledge strategies, resources and activities that positively impact the advancement of women in society.

While it is recognised that signi cant barriers to gender equality still exist, the best way to press forward is to understand what works and to do more of it faster. This is what ‘Accelerate Action’ is all about: providing the necessary support and resources to ensure that initiatives that work are implemented quickly and on a larger scale. In this way, meaningful changes that empower women and promote equality can be realised. According to the International Women’s Day website, current projections indicate that at the present pace of progress, full gender parity will not be a reality until 2158, a staggering ve generations from now. This prediction underpins the need for change and the choice of theme for 2025.

Most Powerful Woman 2024

EVERY year, Forbes creates its top 100 list of ‘The World’s Most Powerful Women’, an incredible accolade for women who have made their mark on the world. This list is determined by four main criteria: money, media, impact and spheres of inuence. This results in a list of 100 women across nance, technology, media, and beyond.

Top of the list for 2024 is Ursula von der Leyen, who holds the esteemed title of President of the European Commission, European Union. Born in 1958 in Brussels, Belgium, von der Leyen is a prominent German politician and physician with a distinguished career in public service. Throughout her political career, she has held multiple positions within the Ger-

man government which has led to more than 14 years of experience as a Federal Minister. This includes the role of Germany’s Federal Minister of Defence which she held between 2013 and 2019. This is signi cant because it made her the rst woman to hold this position, where she was responsible for overseeing Germany’s military and its strategic direction through various global challenges.

Aside from politics, Ursula von der Leyen also boasts an impressive academic record in medicine. After obtaining her medical licence in 1987, she went on to obtain a doctorate in 1991, followed by a Master of Public Health in 2001.

Ursula von der Leyen attends talk in

Strike the #AccelerateAction pose.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Refinery plans

THE UK government will spend £200 million (€241 million) on attracting new companies to Grangemouth, once Scotland’s only remaining oil refinery has closed. When decommissioning is completed by May, more than 400 people will be out of work, although the closure will also affect thousands of indirect jobs.

Out of the red

PHARMACEUTICAL group Almirall, headquartered in Barcelona, reported a net profit of €10.1 million last year, compared with €38.5 million losses in 2023. Markets welcomed the 2024 results that were announced in late February, with Almirall shares rising to €9.45, giving the company a value of €2.017 billion.

On top

WOMEN occupied 43.4 per cent of seats on the boards of the UK’s FTSE 350 companies, compared to 42.1 per cent in 2023, the annual FTSE Women Leaders Review announced. Percentages were even higher for the country’s largest FTSE 100 companies, which climbed from 42.6 per cent to 44.7 per cent.

Going up

VODAFONE SPAIN reported revenues of €913 million for the third quarter of its fiscal year between October 1 and December 31, an increase of 1.1 per cent on the preceding quarter’s €903 million. The company’s adjusted gross operating profit after leases reached €320 million, 0.63 per cent up on the second quarter.

Two suitors

HONG KONG-BASED CK Infrastructure has lodged a £7 billion (€8.4 billion) bid for a majority stake in Thames Water, according to the Financial Times. This offer coincides with another from the US private equity group KKR which has made a separate £4 billion (€4.8 billion) offer for another majority holding.

STAT OF WEEK

€14 billion

in excess capital for Spain’s banks this year, 37 per cent more than the total for Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank, Sabadell, Bankinter and Unicaja between them in 2024.

Unexpected exit

UNILEVER showed the door to its chief executive Hein Schumacher on February 25.

In a move that apparently surprised the Dutch businessman, he will step down on March 2 and leave on May 31.

Unilever’s board, which includes billionaire activist investor Nelson Peltz, ‘was unified in its decision to oust Schumacher’ an insider told Reuters.

Shares in the company, which owns Marmite, Domestos, Ben & Jerry’s and Hellmann’s amongst other brands, have risen by 9 per cent since Schumacher took over in July 2023, but fell 3.4 per cent with the news of his exit.

Schumacher’s departure came shortly after the company announced that turnover increased by 1.9 per cent to €60.8 billion in 2024. With a €6.4 billion net profit, the

FATIMA BAÑEZ, who was Spain’s minister of Labour and Social Security between 2011 and 2018, has returned to multinational energy company Iberdrola.

Currently president of the CEOE Foundation attached to the Spanish Confederation of Business Organisations, Bañez joined the board of Iberdrola’s US subsidiary Avangrid in 2022 but left when the company was de-listed from the New York Stock Exchange. The former minister now

company’s full-year results were viewed as ‘underwhelming’.

Chairman Ian Meakins said the board was ‘pleased’ with Unilever’s 2024 performance ‘but there is much further to go to deliver best-in-class results’.

Nevertheless, on February 25, Meakins thanked Schumacher for resetting Unilever’s strategy, ‘for the focus and discipline he brought to the company and the solid financial progress delivered during 2024.’

Schumacher will be replaced by Unilever’s chief financial officer, Argentinean Fernando Fernandez, who joined the company in 1988.

According to media reports, the board prefers Fernandez’s ‘appetite’

for executing the next phase of the company’s turnaround.

The outgoing chief executive will receive his fixed pay of €1.85 million until May31, plus a payment in lieu of the remainder of his notice period.

Fernandez will receive a fixed salary of €1.8 million.

Big names at Iberdrola

joins the board of Iberdrola Energia Internacional, the sub-holding com pany that coordinates Iberdola’s activities in Germany, France, Italy, Greece, Portu gal and other countries inclu

SPAIN’S Cabinet has approved Aramco’s purchase of a 10 per cent holding in Madrid-based Horse Powertrain. The Saudi Arabian oil company announced in June that it would acquire a stake in the automotive firm that is jointly owned by Renault and the Chinese car manufacturer Geely.

This required the Spanish government’s permission, which Aramco received in late October although it was not made public until now.

Aramco paid €740 million for its 10 per cent stake, giving Horse Powertrain a market capitalisation of €7.4 billion.

ding Australia. The company has been headed since January 1 by Hugh Elliott, Britain’s ambassador to Spain until September 2024.

Argentina farewell Just Eat

NETHERLANDS’ investment group Prosus has paid €4.1 billion for the online food delivery firm Just Eat.

The company, founded in Denmark and later headquartered in London, was acquired by Dutch company Takeaway in 2020 to create Just Eat Takeaway, dropping its London dual listing and trading only in Amsterdam.

Although the company was worth €17.1 billion at the height of the pandemic, the €20.30 per share that Prosus paid was a 49 per cent premium on Just Eat’s average price over the last three months.

TELEFONICA is selling its Argentina operations to Telecom Argentina for $1.25 billion (€1.19 billion).

The Spanish telecommunications multinational has been a presence in Argentina for the last 30 years but had intended since 2019 to scale down its exposure to Latin America, company sources explained.

Following the announcement on February 24, Telefonica shares immediately rose 1.5 per cent while those of Telecom Argentina, which is partly owned by Clarin, the country’s largest newspaper, gained 3.4 per cent.

Argentina’s president Javier Milei warned that his government intended to appraise the deal as a possible monopoly that would put 70 per cent of the country’s telecommunications in the hands of one group.

Another instantly-recognisable Iberdrola name belongs to the footballer and coach Vicente del Bosque who took Spain’s national team to World Cup victory in 2010.

Iberdrola sponsored the Spanish side between 2009 and 2016, and Del Bosque joined Iberdrola Energia Internacional board in 2014.

Ercros losses

SPANISH basic chemicals company

Ercros lost €11.7 million last year, compared with a €27.6 million profit in 2023.

Figures submitted to Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) revealed that sales of €643 million were 9 per cent down on the previous year. When taking into account the company’s total income of €700 million in 2024, which included services, these fell 8 per cent.

The Ercros results coincided with rival takeover bids from Italian company Esseco and Bondalti in Portugal, both of which await a decision from the CNMV.

Meanwhile both have been rejected by 27.5 per cent of Ercros shareholders.

BROOKFIELD is expected to finalise the $1.7 billion (€1.62 billion) purchase of National Grid’s US operations by the end of September.

The Canadian asset manager is acquiring National Grid’s onshore wind, solar and battery plants in North America as the FTSE 1000 company disposes of part of its portfolio.

Now focusing on infrastructure rather than energy generation, National Grid is also preparing to sell Grain LNG, its liquid natural gas terminal on the Isle of Grain in the Thames Estuary.

SIR JIM RATLIFFE, the UK’s second-richest man, also owns 28.94 per cent of Manchester United.

Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, now managing the football club’s finances, has ordered the closure of the Old Trafford staff canteen and plans to replace the current free lunches with fruit.

Players will still receive free meals, but the team’s non-players will be offered only soup and bread as Ratcliffe aims to save £1 million (€1.2 million).

Photo credit: Unilever

Photo credit :pp.es

FATIMA BAÑEZ: Former minister joins Iberdrola Energia Internacional board.

HEIN SCHUMACHER: Has stepped down as Unilever chief executive.

3I Group 3.963,00 3.982,00 3.959,00 33,79K Admiral Group 2.876,7 2.881,0 2.866,0 10,47K

Airtel Africa 141,40 143,10 141,40 85,69K Anglo American 2.348,5 2.353,0 2.331,0 64,94K

Antofagasta 1.745,50 1.749,50 1.732,50 31,29K

Ashtead Group 4.811,0 4.836,0 4.801,0 32,91K Associated British Foods 1.890,0 1.904,5 1.889,5 19,35K

11.954,0 12.018,0 11.914,0 108,03K Auto Trader Group Plc 775,20 776,80 773,60 34,27K Aviva 539,00 544,40 537,66 382,47K

B&M European Value Retail SA 275,03 277,20 274,90 78,75K

BAE Systems 1.645,50 1.666,50 1.552,00 3,22M Barclays 306,77 310,70 306,45 2,63M Barratt Redrow 422,50 426,00 422,40 72,03K

Beazley 879,50 882,00 877,50 57,9K

Berkeley 3.648,0 3.664,0 3.602,0 29,15K

BP 437,80 438,90 437,30 1,15M British American Tobacco 3.069,0 3.080,0 3.065,7 166,8K BT Group 157,95 160,15 157,65 744,71K Bunzl 3.196,0 3.334,0 3.186,0 247,21K

150,25 150,55 148,95 689,2K

Cola HBC AG 3.372,0 3.381,8 3.354,0 21,94K

2.782,00 2.783,00 2.773,00 55,02K

Euro

EUR/GBP: Down from £0.84 to £0.82

EUR/USD: Unchanged at $1.04

The euro has traded in a wide range over the past month. Starting with a slump at the end of January as another European Central Bank (ECB) interest rate cut coincided with stagnant Eurozone GDP growth.

Early February extended the EUR selloff amid tariff threats from US President Donald Trump. Before the euro was able to claw back a good portion of its gains thanks to a weakening US dollar and the prospect of a peace deal in Ukraine.

However, the euro then came under pressure again as the exclusion of European representatives from US-Russia discussions on ending the war in Ukraine raised concerns about Europe’s influence in the peace process.

Looking ahead, the euro likely faces more bumps in the road as

Currency outlook: US dollar rocked by Trump’s tariff agenda, Euro undermined by Ukraine uncertainty

the fallout from Germany’s federal election, the Ukrainian peace process and erratic US trade policy are all likely to infuse volatility into the single currency.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Up from €1.18 to €1.20

GBP/USD: Up from $1.23 to $1.26

Trade in the pound has been erratic over the past month. In late January, Sterling strengthened due to improved UK eco-

nomic optimism and Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ growth-oriented speech.

However, these gains were swiftly reversed after the Bank of England (BoE) delivered a dovish interest rate cut and halved its 2025 growth forecast.

An unexpected uptick in UK GDP brought fresh relief, before GBP investors largely shrugged off stronger-than-expected UK inflation and wage growth figures, on the expectation the BoE will sti-

ll cut rates again in May.

Turning to March, the main focus for GBP investors will likely be the Chancellor’s Spring Statement. Expect any tax hikes or spending cuts to sap Sterling sentiment.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Down from £0.81 to £0.79

USD/EUR: Unchanged at €0.95

The US dollar has faced significant volatility in the first four wee-

ks of Donald Trump’s second term in office.

This has been primarily driven by the President’s scattergun approach to his tariff announcements, with USD investors left reeling by his inconsistent position on trade.

On the more positive front for the US dollar was the Federal Reserve’s decision to pause its cutting cycle and a hotter-than-expected US inflation print.

No doubt USD investors will be kept on their feet by Trump in the coming weeks. With the President’s erratic policy announcements likely to infuse further volatility into the US dollar.

Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

Looking ahead, the euro likely faces more bumps in the road.

Spain’s property market sees a surge in international investments, with South American buyers leading the trend

South Americans in Spanish market

SOUTH AMERICAN interest in Spain’s property market has surged, with purchases rising by 325 per cent over the past decade. Transactions jumped from 988 in 2014 to 4,198 in 2024, re ecting broader migration patterns and economic opportunities.

While South Americans account for just 2.5 per cent of non-EU property buyers, their growing presence is reshaping the market. This shift coincides with Spain’s rising foreign population, which reached 48.6 million in 2024. More than 1.3 million South and Central Americans now hold residence permits, with Colombians leading the in ux. In 2023 alone, Spain’s Colombian population grew by 124,566, making it one of the fastest-growing communities. Venezuelans and Peruvians are also settling in increasing numbers, particularly in Madrid and Barcelona, where 40 per cent of Spain’s South American residents live.

The pro le of buyers is evolving, with a uent investors from Venezuela, Mexico, and Colombia driving demand for luxury properties. Many purchase high-end homes for residency purposes or to accommodate children studying in Spain. As a result, the supply of properties priced above €800,000 has surged by 150 per cent since 2019. Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, and Alicante have become key hotspots for these buyers. Beyond numbers, this trend re ects deeper cultural and economic ties between Spain and Latin America. The growing South American presence is not only transforming real estate but also strengthening historical connections and investment opportunities in Spain’s property sector.

Cable now restored

THE undersea bre optic cable connecting Latvia and Sweden has been fully restored after being damaged in January.

According to reports, engineers and a specialised repair vessel completed the reconnection on Friday, February 28.

Latvian State Radio and Television Center (LVRTC) stated “the functionality of the cable, equipment and connections in Ventspils and Gotland have been tested, and the service to LVRTC customers has now been completely restored.”

Final work is still ongoing, as the cable needs to be lowered to the seabed, but favourable weather conditions are expected to allow completion soon.

The cable was damaged on January 26, in Swedish economic waters, 130 km from the coast of Latvia. Swedish authorities initially seized a vessel as part of the investigation - a Vezhen dry cargo shipying the Maltese ag, according to Baltic

A NEW report from the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights has called on Ireland to repeal its trespass laws, arguing they prevent Traveller and Roma communities from practising their traditional nomadic lifestyles.

Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty, an Irish human rights lawyer, released the memo on Tuesday, February 25, highlighting that the legislation criminalises Travellers for residing on both public and private land.

The 2001 Trespass Legislation, along with the Housing Miscellaneous Acts of

News Network (BNN).

Although there were initial concerns about sabotage, Swedish prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist later clari ed: “The damage to the cables was caused by a combination of adverse conditions - weather conditions, de ciencies in the equipment and lack of shipping knowledge.”

The Swedish prosecutor’s o ce ruled out deliberate sabotage, acknowledging the ship had caused the damage but determining it was accidental, according to a report by LSM+.

Despite Sweden’s ndings, Latvia’s State Police have launched a criminal investigation.

Travellers targeted

1992 and 2002, allows authorities to evict and imprison Travellers who settle in unauthorised locations. Additionally, local authorities have placed boulders on tra-

ditional halting sites, further restricting movement.

As a result, only 15-20 per cent of Travellers continue to live in mobile homes or trailers, often in overcrowded and substandard conditions without access to basic utilities like water and electricity.

O’Flaherty’s report aligns with previous recommendations, including a 2019 review by a government-appointed expert.

INNOCENT

MARBELLA MOMENTS

BY NICOLE KING

LAST week I wrote about being wary of being ripped o by new businesses that open up in holiday areas. Unfortunately there are loads of ways we can be ‘done’ in Spain, as Triple A found out all too well nine years ago.

It seems hard to believe that so much time has gone by since they were accused of many horrendous acts, all of which were promoted on national television and social media; it was savage.

Anyone who had anything to do with this organisation, which includes the town hall of Marbella itself, knew all too well that this animal charity was set up by well-intentioned foreigners who have gone above and beyond to o er some form of protection and shelter for the abandoned animals of our city.

It is thanks to this charity that we don’t have dogs scavenging in bins and faeces strewn around our streets. Thousands of animals have been rehomed locally and abroad and every care has been

taken to ensure the animals’ well-being. Nevertheless it would seem that an ex-associate with vengeful intentions cast aspersions and accusations, using their knowledge of the law, in a personal vendetta. It was that simple to turn the lives of those running the shelter upside down and inside out.

It’s taken nine years for the court to rule all allegations as unfounded, but even so they will never get back the years of stress, time spent in a prison cell and all the horrible allegations they have had to deal with from people who assumed ‘there is no smoke without re!’

In this case there was: the court has nally ruled everyone at Triple A ‘INNOCENT ON ALL CHARGES’!

Jan Weima of Triple A Marbella.

The cable under the Baltic Sea was damaged in January of this year.

Amsterdam bans AI tools

AMSTERDAM has officially prohibited the use of generative AI by municipal employees, citing concerns over misinformation, hate speech, and potential data leaks.

The ban affects popular platforms like ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, and Midjourney, according to an internal memo obtained by local broadcaster AT5. Authorities fear these tools could inadvertently spread false information or compromise sensitive city data, undermining public trust.

Officials argue that unregulated AI could amplify propaganda and hateful content, making strict oversight necessary. The municipality has clarified that employees may only use AI tools that comply with Dutch regulations and Amsterdam’s internal policies.

This move follows previous digital restrictions in the city, including a

An example of generative AI software, which Amsterdam has now banned for city employees due to concerns over misinformation, data leaks, and hate speech.

ban on TikTok for work phones in 2022 and a similar block on Telegram last year.

By proactively monitoring AI developments, Amsterdam aims to stay ahead of potential risks while maintaining a secure digital environment.

Despite the restriction, the city is piloting ‘Chat Amsterdam’, an initiative to explore AI’s potential

in public administration. This controlled approach seeks to determine whether AI can enhance efficiency without exposing the city to security threats.

As European cities navigate the challenges of artificial intelligence, Amsterdam’s firm stance could set a precedent for future municipal AI policies.

Baby rhino debutante

NOVA the white baby rhino made her first public appearance at Belgium’s Pairi Daiza zoo on Wednesday February 26. She entertained visitors whilst playing and jumping alongside her mother Ellie in a public enclosure. Born on January 2, Nova was a long time coming after the 18-month gestation period! Following her birth, she had been kept in a secured and heated space to gain weight and strength safely. She had already met other rhinos at the zoo accompanied by her mother earlier in the week.

The zoo has shared videos of Nova timidly greeting them, including her brother Kodjos, half-brother Willy and his mother Madiba. Pairi Daiza is a privately owned zoo and botanical garden located by the Bel-

gian town of Brugelette. It has won several awards as the ‘Best Zoo in Europe’ and is certified ‘Three Stars’ in the Michelin Green Guide. Nova is the fourth child Ellie has given birth to at the zoo, and one of a subspecies of rhino from Southern Africa that are endangered. Two genetically different subspecies are found in northern and southern Africa. Only two northern white rhinos, both female, are known to exist.

The vast majority of the 18,000 southern white rhinos inhabit South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Kenya. They were at near extinction levels in the early 1900s but protection and management measures implemented at the start of last century have improved their classification to ‘near threatened’.

Credit : Shutterstock, Summit Art Creations

Nova is one of a near threatened subspecies - the Southern African white rhino.

SOS for Rome’s cinemas

DIRECTORS and actors in Europe and the US are campaigning to save some of Rome’s most iconic cinema buildings.

Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, Jane Campion and Ken Loach are just a few of those supporting 87-year-old architect Renzo Piano who recently wrote to the La Repubblica newspaper.

“This is my heartfelt appeal to ensure that the cinemas, these precious ‘places for the people’ are preserved in the urban fabric of our cities, and in particular those of Rome,” wrote Piano, who designed the Pompidou Centre in Paris and London’s Shard.

Concern for Rome’s cinemas grew in late February when asset management companies Colliers Global Investors and Wrm Capital paid a reported €50 million for nine cinemas.

Some, like the Adriano, built as a theatre in 1898 and now a multiplex, still function although others were

closed years ago.

The acquisition coincided with a proposed legislation to change the regulations which currently prevent Rome’s cinemas from being converted into anything other than cultural centres.

Instead, the new legislation would allow up to 50 of the city’s oldest but closed cinemas to become shopping centres, supermarkets or hotels.

Scorsese has written an

open letter signed by 500 of cinema’s biggest names that asks politicians including prime minister Giorgia Meloni and Italy’s president Sergio Mattarella to block the development plans.

“Such a transformation would represent an irrevocable loss, a profound sacrilege not only to the city’s rich history but also to the cultural legacy for future generations,” Scorsese wrote.

‘Bad nudist’ crackdown

NO ifs, no buts: beach wardens in a German sea resort, have officially been given the power to tell textiles to take a hike.

Rostock, on Germany’s Baltic Sea coast, has declared new rules demanding visitors on designated nudist sections do exactly what it says on the tin - go nude. The port city’s new regulation means anyone wearing clothes in designated naturist-only zones could face a ban.

Local authorities, who oversee 19km of pristine coastline scattered with 37 official nudist beaches, have decided enough’s enough after a flurry of complaints from both sides of the sunbathing divide. According to the new guidelines, ‘The presence on nudist beaches is reserved exclusively for people practising nudism. Clothed bathing and clothed sunbathing are not permitted.’

City patrols will politely remind any overly shy swimmers that it’s time to peel off their cossies or move along. No fines will be issued yet, but officials are determined to keep these sandy stretches in the spirit of Freikörperkultur (Free Body Culture), a long-standing German tradition that kicked off some 130 years ago. Germany, boasting more than 3,700km of coastline on both the North and Baltic Seas, has long been a nudist haven. The Freikörperkultur movement, or FKK for short, promotes a celebration of the human body and a belief in better mental and physical health through naturism. However, times are changing, with fewer younger people joining the movement. Critics also claim the crackdown might be out of date and unenforceable - but for now, it’s no clothes, no problem.

Barcelona’s secret weapon!

FOR British visitors to Barcelona, the heart of the city beckons, especially the lively Las Ramblas. This iconic promenade, separated from the modern L’Eixample district by the grand Plaça de Catalunya, winds its way down to the port and the Portal de la Pau square. Here, you’ll find the towering Christopher Columbus Monument commemorating the explorer’s famous discovery of America.

But the best way to soak up the atmosphere is with a stroll down Las Ramblas. These wide, pedestrian walkways, lined with shady trees, are a hive of activity. Here you’ll find stalls selling everything from flowers and pets to the latest bestsellers and newspapers.

Barcelona’s skyline reflects its embrace of the contemporary. The modern buildings lining Avenida Diagonal might catch your eye, but nothing quite compares to the whimsical genius of Antoni Gaudí, a Catalan architect who left his indelible mark on the city.

lossal and intricately detailed church I’ve described here before, has become Barcelona’s undeniable symbol. In fact, Gaudí’s fingerprints are all over the city, from the whimsical apartment buildings Casa Batlló and Casa Milá (La Pedrera) to the fantastical Güell Park. Unsurprisingly, Gaudí’s visionary works were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Gaudí truly is Barcelona’s secret weapon - making the city a must-see destination!

His most famous creation, the Insta-friendly Sagrada Familia, the co -

Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

ADRIANO CINEMA: Built as a theatre in 1898 and still functioning .

Photo credit: Flickr/Truus, Bob and Jan

Credit: Shutterstock, Alex Vog

New rules on bad naturist etiquette in Germany means absolutely no clothes!

FRANCE has just pulled off the ultimate meltoff, setting a Guinness World Record for the largest cheese fondue ever cooked up by humansand it’s left the Swiss in a right gooey mess.

Biggest fondue in history!

The Juraflore cheese company in Les Rousses, eastern France, took on the colossal challenge at Fort des Rousses, preparing an eye-watering 4,800-pound vat of cheesy, boozy goodness. They didn’t skimp on the ingredients, either! The giant copper caul-

Wacky

waiting spot

A BUS stop in Fowey, England, has been getting creative makeovers from locals for the past 20 years.

Known as the Pretty Bus Stop on Lankelly Lane in Cornwall, its rst transformation was done by Jane Tinsley to discourage vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Since then, the stop has been decorated in a variety of themes, including a tea room, a yacht race, a library, and even an Elvis tribute. Each year, volunteers take turns giving the bus stop a new look, especially in winter.

Sarah Worne, an artist who has been involved since 2021, recently created a plant-themed design called Thyme to Stop. It features real and painted pots of seedlings and plants, giving the stop the feel of a greenhouse. “It was cold heading into February, and everyone needed a bit of warmth,” Sarah said. “This design makes it feel cosy while people wait for the bus.”

Sarah enjoys the project because it brings joy to others. “I always like keeping busy and doing things that make people smile, just for fun,” she added.

The bus stop even has a dedicated Facebook page with over 2,700 followers, showcasing its many designs over the years.

dron was packed to the brim with 40 wheels of comté cheese - each matured for nine, 15, and 21 months - along with Chardonnay and Sauvignon white wines, a whopping 4.4 pounds of garlic,

3.3 pounds of white pepper, and 121 pounds of cornstarch to keep things smooth and creamy.

And not just that - chefs used a giant food processor to mix the molten marvel into the perfect consistency. Juraflore didn’t just set a new world record, they also neutralised the Swiss! Their 4,800-pound fondue smashed the previous unofficial record of

Lost & found

AS glaciers melt worldwide, ancient artefacts - from wooden tools to human remains - are being uncovered, drawing archaeologists to icy mountain regions.

Norway is at the forefront of glacial archaeology, with over 4,500 artefacts found, accounting for more than half of global discoveries. According to Espen Finstad, co-leader of the Secrets of the Ice project, these nds reveal ancient trade and hunting routes that once crossed the glaciers, dating back to the Stone Age.

For centuries, these objects remained frozen, but rising global temperatures have exposed them. The summer of 2024 saw rapid melting, leading to a surge of discoveries.

Finstad’s team explored nearly a dozen sites and recovered two of the best-preserved arrows they had ever seen, one

lying fully intact on the ice, requiring no excavation.

Arrows are common nds, as reindeer hunting was a major activity in the Iron Age and medieval times. Some arrowheads were made from distant river mussels, highlighting extensive trade networks.

Remarkably, some prehistoric arrows still had etching, the delicate feathers used for stabilisation, making them rare and valuable.

With glaciers continuing to recede, archaeologists

3,175 pounds, held by La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland since 2009. With a Guinness World Record’s adjudicator present to certify the attempt, there’s no doubt about it - France has stirred up history and left Switzerland feeling ‘grately’ disappointed...

anticipate even more discoveries in the near future.

Ancient artefacts uncovered.

Image: Secrets Of The Ice / Facebook

Flu season hits hard Beauty begins with hydration

HYDRATION is key to maintaining both good health and radiant beauty. Drinking enough water supports nearly every function of the body, from digestion to temperature regulation, and plays a significant role in maintaining healthy skin.

When properly hydrated, the skin stays supple, preventing dryness and premature ageing. Water helps flush out toxins, which can lead to clearer skin and a healthier complexion. Hydration also promotes elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Beyond beauty, staying hydrated boosts overall health. It aids in the efficient circulation of nutrients and oxygen, which supports energy levels and mental clarity. Proper hydration helps to regulate body temperature and supports kidney function by

flushing out waste. It can also improve digestion and prevent constipation, as water helps to break down food and keep the digestive system moving smoothly.

Additionally, water helps maintain healthy joints by lubricating them, reducing the risk of stiffness and pain. When you’re properly hydrated,

its best, giving you more energy, better skin, and an improved sense of well-being. For the best results, aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and adjust this amount based on physical activity and environmental conditions.

Proper hydration is a simple, effective way to enhance both beauty and

THIS year’s flu season is turning out to be the worst since 2009, with hospitals overwhelmed and over 800,000 hospitalisations reported since October. With two aggressive strains circulating, health experts are urging people to take every precaution - from flu shots to maintaining a strong immune system through diet. While vaccines and hygiene practices remain critical, what you eat also plays a major role in how well your body can fight off infections. Essential nutrients like Vitamins A, C, D, and E, along with Zinc, Selenium, and Omega-3 fatty acids, help boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and support faster recovery.

Incorporating immune-boosting foods into your diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are packed with Vitamin C, while spinach and kale offer a mix of Vitamins A, C, and E. Eggs, dairy, nuts, seeds, and lean meats also contribute valuable nutrients to keep your body strong. Simple meal ideas include oatmeal with berries for breakfast, a smoothie with spinach and yoghurt as a snack, and soups loaded with beans and vegetables for dinner. While no diet can completely prevent illness, giving your body the right fuel can make a big difference during this tough flu season.

First things first

THE first thing people do in the morning often depends on personal habits and routines, but here’s a breakdown of these common morning actions:

1. Stretching

• Why? Many people stretch instinctively upon waking to loosen up stiff muscles and improve blood circulation.

• Benefits: Increases flexibility, wakes up your body, and reduces any tension or stiffness from sleep.

2. Drinking water

• Why? After hours of not hydrating, your body may crave water. Some reach for a glass right away to rehydrate and kickstart metabolism.

• Benefits: Helps boost energy, aids digestion, and clears toxins from the body.

3. Going to the bathroom

• Why? It’s a natural reflex for most people after waking. Your body processes liquids overnight, making this a top priority for many.

• Benefits: Relieves discomfort and sets the tone for starting the day fresh.

What’s your morning priority? Each of these has its merits. Some people combine them (eg, drinking water while stretching) or prioritise one based on what feels most natural or beneficial to their routine. What do you do first?

Growing it out

PATIENCE is key when growing out a hairstyle, but the right care routine can make the process smoother and healthier. While hair growth itself is determined by genetics, there are ways to encourage length and maintain healthy strands.

Regular trims might seem counterproductive, but removing split ends prevents breakage, helping hair appear fuller and stronger.

A trim every eight-12 weeks keeps hair in good condition without sacrificing length. Gentle brushing with a wide-tooth comb

INVESTING in quality make-up brushes is essential for flawless application, but proper care is key to ensuring they last. With the right maintenance, your brushes can stay in excellent condition for years, saving you money and improving your make-up routine.

Regular cleaning is the most important step. Brushes collect product residue, oils, and bacteria, which can affect application and even cause skin irritation. Wash them weekly using a gentle brush cleanser or mild shampoo with lukewarm water. Always rinse thoroughly and reshape the bristles before allowing them to dry naturally, ideally laying them

or soft bristle brush prevents unnecessary breakage, especially when detangling wet hair.

A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and healthy fats supports hair growth from within. Biotin, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to stronger, shinier strands. Staying hydrated also helps maintain scalp health. Avoiding excessive heat styling, harsh chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles reduces damage and breakage. Using nourishing hair masks, leave-in conditioners, and scalp massages with essential oils like rosemary or

stimulate growth and improve texture.

Growing out a hairstyle requires care, but with the right routine, hair can remain strong, healthy, and beautifully long throughout the transition.

Long lasting beauty

flat to prevent water from loosening the glue.

Storage also plays a role in longevity. Keep brushes in a clean, dry container, ideally upright, to maintain their shape.

Avoid storing them in humid environments, like bathrooms, as moisture can weaken the bristles. Lastly, be gentle when using brushes to prevent unnecessary shedding or damage. By following these simple steps, you can keep your brushes in top condition, ensuring smooth, precise makeup application every time.

Podiatry

AT the El Campanario Clinic we give you the help you need so much for the health of your feet.

Regardless of the type of problem or condition. In our Medical Centre in Calahonda you can receive the service of general, child, sports, work, preventive and geriatric podiatry.

Broad benefits

PLAYING cards and board games isn’t just an entertaining pastime - it also offers a range of health benefits for the mind and body. Engaging in these activities stimulates cognitive function, enhances social connections, and even reduces stress levels, making them a great addition to a healthy lifestyle.

One of the primary benefits is improved brain function. Strategy-based games require problem-solving, memory recall, and critical thinking, all of which help keep the mind sharp. Studies suggest that regularly playing board games can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and conditions like dementia by keeping the brain actively engaged. Card and board games also provide a natural way to relieve stress. The enjoyment and laughter they bring help reduce cortisol levels, which can improve overall well-being. Additionally, they encourage social interaction, essential for mental health, reducing feelings of loneliness. For families, playing games strengthens bonds and improves communication skills. Whether for relaxation or mental stimulation, incorporating games into daily life can be a fun and beneficial way to enhance overall health.

Avenida de España 20, Local 5, Sitio de Calahonda, Malaga. +34 952 933 377

#clinicamedica #clinicamedicacalahonda #especialistasmedicosmalaga #cliniccalahonda

coconut oil can

Heaven help them all

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I’M assuming that most of our readers observed the White House / Trump meetings involving Starmer and Zelenskyy this week. As far as Starmer was concerned, I considered his interview an embarrassment.

It made the same impression on me as the pathetic ‘deal’ that ridiculous Reeves recently negotiated with China for some pitiful investment of 600 million peanuts over the next five years. When Starmer gleefully extracted the Kings invitation ‘trump’ card from his inside pocket, he was like a self-centred schoolboy, inviting teacher to attend his dad’s birthday party! Heaven help the UK.

Zelenskyy of course was a totally different concern. What the UK public were (naturally) not informed of was the fact that after the event, he was subsequently escorted from the oval office and ultimately the White House, missing the lunch altogether. The problem with it all is that the

only way to end this ever-running, terrible conflict, is by compromise.

Zelensky was being offered a way to restore the best part of his country, while saving thousands of lives. Still, I understand chicken nuggets at Burger King filled the buffet gap.

Mind you, signing the restaurant receipt for $12.50, was not quite the bill he had in mind after a brunch with Trump! In my opinion, always wearing that ridiculous t-shirt, which is so obviously a PR throwback to his show biz days, depicts he most certainly is not the right man for the job. I await the slings and arrows.

Yet again, I reiterate that in my opinion the irresponsible idiots who sanction sex ‘education’ films for children as young as four, are no better than the sick paedophiles that lure youngsters into their homes and force them to watch sleaze.

It is the same type of attitude that has lowered the standards of British education to such an extent that thousands of pupils are leaving school hardly able to read or write. Their ‘leftie’ legislations have meant, that not only are vast numbers of young people virtually illiterate,

this incompetent bunch of educationalists then proceed to dumb down exam questions, thereby creating a high pass rate in a further attempt to hoodwink us all in to believing they’re doing a good job. Give us a break.

The minute the first ‘eight o’clock shadow’ long haired schoolteacher took off his tie, perched his behind on the edge of his desk and told his pupils to call him ‘John’, the die was cast for the biggest plunge in education and moral standards since the British school system began. I thank the Lord my children have all been educated in Spain and truly feel sorry for British parents, who must often feel they have to protect their offspring from the very people they should be able to trust implicitly. Heaven help them all.

Thanks for all your letters and even the few words of encouragement in public places. They really do mean a great deal. Certainly, sends the ol’ boys’ fervour up.

Keep the faith. Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.co

Street art sensation

A MASSIVE mural in Eindhoven, titled Echoes of Harmony, has been voted the best in the world for 2024.

Standing 20 metres high, it is also the largest piece created in the city by Dutch street art duo Studio Giftig.

The international street art platform Street Art Cities nominated Echoes of Harmony as one of the top murals of the year. After a public vote, the artwork claimed first place in the Expert Spotlight category, which recognises exceptional murals selected by top curators, directors, and gallery owners.

This is not the first time Studio Giftig, founded by Kaspar van Leek and Niels van Swaeman, has earned international recognition. In 2022, one of their murals in Tilburg was also named the best in the world. ‘We’re beyond excited’, the artists shared on Instagram, celebrating their latest win.

Located behind Muziekgebouw Eindhoven, the mural portrays a street musician and a concert violinist embracing, symbolising music’s ability to break down barriers and unite people.

Art lovers don’t need to visit a museum to admire this masterpiece, anyone walking along Jan van Lieshoutstraat near the concert hall can see this award-winning work of urban art.

Art of chocolate

ALTHOUGH not mentioned in the same breath as Belgium, Switzerland or more recently Dubai, the Portuguese do enjoy a taste of their own local chocolate.

After a number of chocolate fairs over previous years, the National Chocolate Platform has been created in the town of Obidos.

It’s a joint operation between the local council and the Portuguese Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHRESP) which is intended to boost the business of chocolate making and promoting the local product.

Prior to the opening of the National Chocolate Platform, a signing event between the two organising parties took place and the much respected Obidos International Chocolate Festival is due to take place between March 21 to April 6 at weekends from Friday to Sunday.

According to Carlos Moura of AHRESP “The platforms aim to promote less-mediated economic activities and value professionals who, in the case of chocolate, are real artisans and a human heritage.”

There is a financial obligation to the town in the district of Leiria and Mayor Filipe Danie confirmed that setting up the Platform (the second to be registered in the country,

after the Bread Platform) would cost an estimated €50,000 in 2025, with a further investment of €25,000 the following year in order to keep it running. If Portuguese born discoverer of the ‘New World’, Christopher Columbus had realised the importance of the cocoa beans presented to him by an Indian chief, the whole history of Portugal and chocolate might have been so different.

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

Image: VisitBrabant / Instagram

Award-winning work of urban art.

Chocolate platform created in Obidos.

Credit: Obidos Council

SCHOOL

Costa del Sol Paradise for parents

IMAGINE raising your family on Spain’s dazzling Costa del Sol, where exceptional schooling meets a sunny, welcoming lifestyle.

Situated between spectacular mountains and the clean fresh air of the Mediterranean, along southern Spain’s coast, this region is a paradise for parents from around the globe, offering stunning beaches, a welcoming tight-knit expat community, and a vibrant culture.

The Mediterranean climate with mild winters and seemingly endless summers, invites children to enjoy year-round outdoor fun, from beach picnics to mountain hikes, all in a safe family-friendly setting. Families dining out with children is not frowned upon here - they are actively encouraged.

What truly sets the Costa del Sol apart, though, is its outstanding education scene. The area boasts some of the best international schools in Europe, delivering world-class curricula like the British GCSEs, A-Levels, or the International Baccalaureate.

The schools are designed with global families in mind, blending academic rigour with a multicultural flair that prepares children for universities anywhere in the world - whether back home or across borders. Highly qualified teachers, small class sizes, and state-of-the-art facilities ensure children get personalised attention and top-tier learning opportunities. Plus, the diverse student body helps them build cross-cultural friendships, fostering open-mindedness and adaptability - skills that last a lifetime.

Children thrive among diverse classmates, gaining a far more worldly perspective while enjoying a seamless education that connects easily to systems back home or anywhere else.

Beyond the classroom, the Costa del Sol offers affordable cost of living, the healthiest of Mediterranean local cuisine, and a rich mix of Spanish traditions and international influences, along with a spectrum of after-school activities, including diverse sports, creative workshops and global playdates.

The International School Estepona

THE International School Estepona was established in 2004 and is located in El Paraiso, Estepona and is currently home to just over 100 children from two-12 years. The School has its own car park. The ISE follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales with English being the first language. It is monitored by The British Council on a regular basis. The School is the only member of the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) in Estepona and is fully approved as a British School by the Junta de Andalucia Education Department. Spanish is taught as a second language with lessons

lasting one hour per day.

The School prides itself in being a welcoming nurturing environment for children from all over the world.

The ‘Community Spirit’ is very noticeable especially during major events such as ‘the School Play’ and annual ‘Sports Day’ which all parents and relatives are invited to.

All staff are fully qualified and there are class room assistants to help in the delivery of the Curriculum. Children’s progress is closely monitored and a termly report is provided on a regular basis. Extra help with the English Language can be provided if required.

The School also has regular field

Discover CLIC Malaga: Your gateway to Spanish language & culture

LOCATED in the heart of Malaga, CLIC International House is a renowned Spanish language school offering high-quality courses. With over 40 years of experience, CLIC provides an immersive and dynamic learning environment, attracting students from all over the world.

Why Choose CLIC Malaga?

Prime Location: Near the beach and city centre, surrounded by history and culture.

Expert Teachers: Native-speaking, experienced, and passionate professionals.

trips to local places of interest which the children thoroughly enjoy. Sport and PE is a regular part of the School week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This includes sports such as Football, Rounders and Cricket to name but a few.

The older children in Year 6 are adequately prepared for Secondary School to ensure a smooth transition into their next phase of education.

The teachers are constantly available to discuss concerns and progress by making an appointment. All parents have their class teacher’s direct email address.

Please feel free to visit www. marbellaschool.com for further

EU’s

Diverse Courses: Intensive, private lessons, Summer Camp for Young Adults, Spanish for 50+ or Spanish + Field Hockey.

Cultural Immersion: Activities, excursions, and social events enhance learning.

Flexible Accommodation: Host families, shared apartments, or private studios.

Class Structure: Interactive, student-centred methodology focusing on communication and real-life practice.

FUNDAE Accredited: Companies can benefit from subsidies for employee language courses.

CLIC Malaga is accredited by Instituto Cervantes and part of International House and IALC, ensuring top-quality education. The school fosters a friendly, multicultural atmosphere where students form lasting friendships while improving their Spanish skills. Whether you need Spanish for work, travel, or personal growth, CLIC Malaga offers a unique learning experience combining education with cultural discovery.

Start your Spanish journey today! Visit www.clic.es/malaga or email malaga@clic.es to learn more.

information and also Facebook and Instagram to see recent news at the School. The School also uses the ‘Konvoko’ App to keep parents up-to-date on important announcements. Just Search ‘International School Estepona’ on the app.

The School has holiday clubs every school holiday including half term.

For further information on Enrolment or clubs please visit www.marbellaschool.com and click ‘contact us’ or call Miss Daniela on 951 742 736, email daniela@marbellaschool.com, or WhatsApp +34 635 347 023

e-learning boom

IN 2024, online learning participation in the EU increased, with 33 per cent of internet users taking courses or using educational materials which is 3 per cent more than in 2023.

Ireland had the highest engagement (61 per cent), followed by the Netherlands (59 per cent) and Finland (53 per cent). In contrast, Romania (10 per cent), Cyprus (11 per cent), and Bulgaria (17 per cent) had the lowest rates.

Structured online courses attracted 18 per cent of internet users, with Ireland leading (36 per cent), followed by Finland and Spain (32 per cent). Meanwhile, 29 per cent used online learning materials, with the Netherlands (53 per cent), Ireland (52 per cent), and Finland (46 per cent) topping the list.

cybersecurity, and digital marketing,

with 40 per cent of top courses focusing on AI. Platforms like Coursera saw growing demand for job-related content, as well as courses on soft skills and personal interests.

Despite the rise in online education, only 17 per cent of EU citizens aged 16–74 took online courses, with another 17 per cent learning for personal reasons. The internet remains primarily used for communication, with 85 per cent making calls or messaging and 80 per cent using email.

Spanish culture & language

THE Swedish International School situated between Estepona town centre and San Pedro Alcantara, a suburb of Marbella, offers students a Swedish education but with the added bonus of Spanish elements.

THE school prides itself on the fact that its students aged from three to 18 benefit from big features of Spanish language and culture, keeping classes to a maximum of 16 (15 in the kindergarten), each child can be assured of the ongoing attention of a qualified teacher. SIS offers a safe and comfortable environment for all students no matter what age they may be or indeed their level of achievement. As the school was only opened in 2023, everything, including the concept behind the schooling is new and up-to-date.

Whether a family is in Spain because one of the parents is on a set time contract or if the family has made the decision to settle in Spain, the intention is to prepare all of the children in a way which would ensure that they could easily fit back into school or college if they return to Sweden.

But it’s not all about Sweden as

those attending will be helped to settle into Spain and the Spanish way of life rather than them feeling completely out of place if they went

straight to a Spanish school. English which is still a very useful language almost everywhere in the world also takes a big part of the environment with the aim of helping each student achieve as much as possible.

Another really important feature of the curriculum is that as children get older and work perhaps becomes more complicated, there is a special house within the campus where they have access to remote teaching via computers with qualified tutors specialised in individual topics such as mathematics who are based in Sweden thus dramatically expanding the quality and variety of teaching. Unlike some schools of old, the ethic here is to include both children and parents in much of the decision making and the students are encouraged to share their thoughts in a number of areas and as well as parent evenings, because the school is relatively small, Principal Goran

Bilingual boost for a global future

DESPITE Brexit’s shake-ups, the UK and Spanish education authorities continue working closely together, making British education schools on the Costa del Sol as attractive as ever among expat and local parents.

In a landmark deal signed in 2023, British Ambassador Hugh Elliott, Spain’s Education Minister Pilar Alegría, and Universities Minister Joan Subirats, an agreement was made to simplify university access, allowing UK A-Level holders skip Spain’s general entrance exam (except for competitive courses) and ensuring those who studied in Spain enter UK universities with legal certainty.

The pact, between Spain’s Ministry of Education and the UK’s Department for Education, aligns A-Levels

with the Spain’s system via a conversion table from UCAS and UNED. It was a win for the 100+ British schools in Spain, inspected by UK-approved bodies via the British Council, which also supports bilingual programs in 90 primary and 58 secondary Spanish schools. This collaboration is aimed at a shared goal: toptier education and cultural exchange.

In Spain, both expat and local parents love a British education for their kids, and for good reason too. The UK curriculum (GCSEs, A-Levels) is world-class, prepping kids for elite universities globally.

English fluency gives students a clear career edge, while smaller classes offer a more tailored attention.

With qualifications now seamlessly recognised, thanks to the deal, British

Holm welcomes parents at the school gates, especially in the case of those attending the kindergarten. Sport, healthy lifestyle and focused activity is an important part of attending the Swedish International School and one of the teachers is actually a professional basketball player. All nationalities are welcome to enrol at the school and currently there is a real mix in the kindergarten, still keeping the emphasis on a majority of the Swedish curriculum, Spanish and English is a big part of the younger students. All in order to adapt students well to the Spanish culture and language.

Visit https://www.sweintschool. com to find out more about the Swedish International School and parents who think that this may be the ideal option for their child are advised to complete a short online expression of interest.

education on the Costa del Sol offers flexibility, prestige, and a bilingual boost in a safe and pleasant environment. For families eyeing a bright future, it’s a clear choice for so many.

The bilingual programmes are educational initiatives designed to teach students in two languages, two cultures, and blending academic

with language development to foster fluency in both. On the Costa del Sol, and across Spain, these programmes often pair Spanish with English, reflecting the region’s international appeal and the global value of bilingualism. They aim to create well-rounded learners who can thrive in multicultural settings, balancing native proficiency with a second

Credit: BearFotos - Shutterstock

language’s mastery. Bilingual programmes boost cognitive skills (problemsolving, multitasking), open doors to global universities and jobs, and enrich cultural awareness. On the Costa del Sol, they’re a hit with expat and local parents alike, offering children a competitive edge in a connected world while honouring local roots. It’s education that speaks two languages, and fluently.

Dual Vocational Training

FROM September this year, all vocational training will be dual in the first year, which applies to Intermediate and Advanced Vocational Education. This means that students will receive training at both vocational education schools and within companies relevant to their course.

Within this new system, it is anticipated that students will carry out more than 35 per cent of their total training ‘on the job’. Moreover, the participating companies will be responsible for more than 30 per cent of the assessment that determines if the student has successfully completed their studies to the required standard. This new way of working is intended to be fully implemented in the 2025/26 school year.

This decree was approved following a proposal that was submitted by the Ministry of Education, Vocational

Training and Sports (MEFD) in May 2024. It is believed that it will enhance the appeal of graduating students to future employers, having already had significant demonstrable hands-on experience.

As stated above, this new approach will apply to both

Intermediate Vocational Training (ISCED 354), and Advanced Vocational Training (ISCED 554).

Moving with the times, the vocational subjects covered will be expanded to include digitalisation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and technical English skills,

which are deemed to be essential for communication in an increasingly globalised work environment. The aim is to equip students with relevant skills for the future and better prepare them for the challenges they could have to face as part of a modern workforce.

Many countries across Europe have embraced vocational education; Germany, in particular, is said to be leading the way. In fact, its System of Vocational Education (SVE) is considered to be the most successful model in the world today. So much so, that more than half of school graduates select the option of vocational training. They particularly favour the well-established dual education model, and have proven that the collaborative approach between educational institutions and businesses works extremely well. At the

Europe’s new wave

INTERNATIONAL student

mobility is shifting as more students explore diverse study destinations beyond traditional favourites like Canada, the US, Australia, and the UK.

These countries, known for academic excellence and career prospects, have introduced recent policy changes that are prompting students to consider alternatives. Europe is emerging as a strong contender, offering high-quality education, affordable tuition, industryrelevant courses, and welcoming environments.

Seven European countriesGermany, France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Malta, and Austriaare gaining popularity. Europe is home to prestigious universities with globally recognised programmes.

France is renowned for arts, sciences, and business, blending rich cultural heritage with great student life. Germany attracts students with its practical, dynamic academic environment, while Spain offers a unique cultural experience,

particularly in cities like Madrid and Barcelona.

Many European universities now offer English-taught programmes, making it easier for international students to study without mastering the local language. Countries like Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Austria offer English courses in fields such as technology, arts, business, engineering, and humanities.

Europe also offers strong career opportunities with

industry-aligned education, internship programmes, and post-study work options. Many countries provide residence permits for graduates, allowing them to stay and work after graduation, which is especially appealing for students seeking global career advancement.

While traditional study destinations remain popular, recent policy changes are encouraging students to explore new opportunities in Europe.

heart of Germany’s success is a tie-in with the Federal Employment Agency, which assesses and provides guidance on which types of jobs are in the greatest demand.

This is all very good news for Malaga as the Germanrun dual vocational training school, FEDA has recently announced an exciting new partnership. They have teamed up with the hotel employers’ association, Aehcos, and as such, they are now able to offer training programmes for the tourist sector.

With Germany leading the way in dual vocational training, this provides the perfect opportunity to safeguard and strengthen an industry that is vital to the Costa del Sol economy.

An alternative after school sport

FLOORBALL is an ideal after school activity for children whose parents worry about aggressive competitiveness and potential exclusion in other sports.

Originating in Sweden, this indoor stick-and-ball game prioritises safety and inclusion. Anyone, no matter what level of fitness or ability can play.

Rules ban rough play, with low-cost, lightweight gear, it’s accessible to all sizes and skill levels, needing just a stick and training shoes, and not costly pads. Teams rotate five players plus a goalie every one - two minutes, ensuring everyone plays.

Unlike win-obsessed sports, floorball balances competition with fun, with not just one star scorer, and fostering teamwork over rivalry.

A 2022 International Floorball Federation survey found 87 per cent of parents praised its ‘nonpressured’ vibe with a full-body workout, running, coordination. It doesn’t need specialised training and builds social bonds.

Children left on the bench elsewhere find a forgiving entry here, with Swedish schools boasting more participation than many other sports.

For parents, it’s relief: energy burns off without bruises or elitism. While top-flight leagues can get intense, floorball’s rise (300,000+ players globally by 2024) fills a gap.

It’s competitive enough to engage, inclusive enough to welcome all, yet perfect for dodging the aggro and exclusion of traditional sports. Children thrive, parents relax.

Image: Gigi Delgado / Shutterstock.com

Exciting Opportunities Await:

Enrol now for 2025/26 in the NEW International curriculum at Svenska Skolan Marbella!

SVENSKA SKOLAN MARBELLA is delighted to announce that enrolment is now open for the 2025/26 academic year for Years 7, 8, and 9. We are proud to offer a unique and enriching educational experience through the full implementation of the International curriculum, making us a beacon of globally recognised education in a nurturing, multicultural environment.

Our journey into the International curriculum began with a remarkable milestone this past September when we launched Year 8, welcoming over 20 new students who have already made incredible progress. Guided by our dedicated international teaching staff, these students are thriving in a personalised learning environment that

from the Swedish school system while embracing the challenges and opportunities of global education.

Though we are situated within a Swedish School, Svenska Skolan Marbella is a fully recognised Cambridge International School where all lessons are taught in english. This means our students benefit from a curriculum that opens doors to future opportunities worldwide. Our small school setting fosters a close-knit, supportive community where every student is valued, nurtured, and empowered to succeed, ensuring that each student receives the attention they deserve.

young minds grow academically and socially, learning to appreciate different cultures, perspectives and backgrounds. At Svenska Skolan Marbella, students are prepared not only for academic success but also for life as globally minded citizens.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a school that combines academic growth, personalised care, and a vibrant multicultural environment. Secure your child’s place for the 2025/26 academic year today and join our growing community of learners.

The diversity of our staff and student body adds a culturally enriching dimension to daily life, creating an atmosphere where

Skilled leaders

For more information or to arrange a visit, contact us on international@ svenskaskolanmarbella.com. Website www. svenskaskolanmarbella.com/ internationalcurriculum

A NEW OECD study shows that Finnish adults lead in literacy, maths, and problem-solving skills, ranking highest among the countries surveyed. Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands follow closely behind in these areas. In contrast, countries like Portugal, Poland, Italy, and Lithuania scored below the OECD average in all three skill categories.

Poland scored 226, Lithuania 230, Italy 231, and Portugal 233 points on a scale from 0 to 500 in

adaptive problem-solving.

Despite efforts to improve education and adult training systems, the study reveals a growing skills gap, with many adults unprepared for future challenges. Andreas Schleicher and Stefano Scarpetta, from the OECD, highlighted the uneven skills landscape.

The study, based on surveys of 160,000 adults across 31 countries, also found that older adults (5565) performed worse in all areas compared to younger adults, with the best results

seen in those aged 25-34. Additionally, adults with highly educated parents scored higher in literacy than those with less-educated parents. Spain was noted for having the smallest skill gap between adults from different socio-economic backgrounds, with only a seven-point difference in literacy scores. Finally, the study found that adults with higher numeracy skills tend to have better employment prospects, higher wages, and greater life satisfaction.

Learning to Belong

MOVING to Spain as a child was not my decision. If it had been, I would have stayed in Ireland with my friends and older siblings, surrounded by the familiar. Leaving everything behind felt overwhelming, but with hindsight, I know it was the best thing my parents ever did for me.

Adapting to a new education system was one of the biggest challenges. My parents assumed school would be the same as in Ireland, but we quickly learned otherwise.

Once they realised things were different, they took the time to understand school timetables and grading systems and to improve communication with teachers and administrators. They also found the parents of other children a great resource. Back then, staying connected with home wasn’t as easy as it is today, which, in some ways, helped. Without the pull of constant contact, I focused on building a new life in Spain. Language was the biggest barrier. I was the only native English speaker in my school, but

as a child, I picked up Spanish faster than my parents. My father led by example. He made light of his mistakes, and that gave me the confidence I needed. At times, the constant effort to understand left me exhausted. Those moments of exhaustion became fewer and further between. Before I knew it, I was participating more - without even thinking about it. One day, I was telling some classmates about a movie I had watched at home over the weekend. I couldn’t remember if I had seen it on one of the Spanish or English TV channels. That was the moment I realised I spoke Spanish. Extracurricular activities also helped. My school encouraged participation in sports, music, and clubs- creating opportunities to make friends and understand Spanish culture. I learned Spanish best through music. Even now, I probably know more Spanish lyrics than English ones. Looking back, I know moving to Spain was the best thing my parents ever did for me. What once felt like a foreign country is now my home.

Passion for Hockey unites Costa del Sol cultures

FUENGIROLA LIONS have a passion for inline hockey and fun fitness. It’s a sport that has grown exponentially in recent years on the Costa del Sol. The Fuengirola LIONS is a multi-cultural and multi-national club with over 30 nationalities playing, and it is a sport anyone can get into.

At a top level, they play in the Spanish national league, La Liga MAPAX Challenger, and against their sister teams Knights, Vikings, Latin Team and Blues in the Liga Andalucia.

Unlike many other team sports, hockey and Fuengirola LIONS are all about everyone and anyone playing. As well as five age groups for inline hockey, they have junior ice hockey played at the Palacio del Hielo in Arroyo de la Miel, and floorball at Los Boliches school, a game that is taking off globally as it is inclusive of everyone regardless of experience or ability.

Easy access to be part of the organisation, as everyone has been new at some point, they also have 30 sets of different size equipment, so anyone, or for that matter schools, can come and try

inline hockey and floorball without having to invest previously in the equipment.

In floorball, they have pickup games for different groups and also more friendly tournaments will be organised as they have a special technical plastic floor for it.

Fuengirola LIONS is unique due to its diverse, multicultural, no common language mix. The only common thing they have is the passion for hockey and love for the sport.

Hockey is for everyone and they have a great active community where no one is left aside. They have highly qualified trainers and an excellent atmosphere, working actively in integration and an anti-bullying

environment. For those moving to the Costa del Sol who don’t know the language well, it is often hard to find activities and friends. But, everyone is warmly welcomed to LIONS. Hockey is all about motivation, better mental health, making lasting relationships, camaraderie, and keeping in shape.

At the moment, inline hockey practice is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4pm till 11pm, and floorball on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6.00pm till 8.00pm, with ice hockey on occasional Sundays.

Fuengirola LIONS inline hockey are located in Santa Fe de Los Boliches, next to the football field and opposite the

Mercadona supermarket and Nuriasol apartments. The easiest way to find them is through Google Maps, typing ‘Fuengirola LIONS,’ just like over 300,000 others have already done.

fuengirolalions@gmail.com

FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ LionsHockeyFuengirola

INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/ lionsinlinehockey

TIKTOK: www.tiktok.com/@ lionsinlinehockey

A Spanish Education

WHEN a family decides to move home, it invariably means moving schools, which, to a child, can feel like the worst feeling in the world as they worry about losing contact with their friends and letting go of everything that feels familiar and comforting to them.

If that move is a more dramatic one, that means moving countries, the changes and challenges are tenfold and perhaps even more daunting. However, ‘change’ is very much a part of life, and once those initial ‘fear’ hurdles have been overcome, embracing change as a child can, for the most part, be a very good thing. It provides a stronger coping mechanism for life as an adult and can broaden horizons and outlook.

Attending school in a foreign country isn’t just about learning a new language, but about a whole new school system, too. Parents and children

need to quickly get to grips with the compulsory years of schooling, when children change schools, how they are graded, and what is considered a strong academic achievement.

lasting for a two-year period.

Throughout their primary education, children are assessed and graded and, if necessary, will be required to repeat a year, should they not obtain the necessary grades/ of 12 and must remain in education until the age of 16 or until they have completed the obligatory four years.

At this point, provided they have achieved the necessary results, they will be awarded with a Graduate of Secondary Education Certificate.

These young adults now have the choice to leave, to study for the two-year Bachillerato academic course, or to enrol in practical training courses known as modules. If the Bachillerato is chosen, students can expect to receive specialised training in several subjects, including sciences, humanities, and arts. At the end, an exam will be taken, which will enable them to be awarded the Spanish Baccalaureate (Bachillerato certificate) and bring them one step closer to attending university if that is the path they choose to take.

To enter one of the 89 universities in Spain, students must not only receive their Bachillerato certificate but also pass the university entrance exam known as ‘Selectividad’.

Image: Gigi Delgado / Shutterstock.com

British Education, Spanish Lifestyle

Your UK Degree awaits in Marbella!

HAVE you ever dreamed of studying in a breathtaking location? Imagine learning in a vibrant international community, surrounded by ancient Roman ruins, sunny skies, and a Mediterranean lifestyle.

At Marbella International University Centre (MIUC), this dream becomes reality.

As a distinguished campus of the University of West London in Spain, MIUC offers you the unique opportunity to earn a British-accredited degree while enjoying the stunning surroundings of southern Spain. But MIUC is more than just an exceptional education- it’s a transformative experience.

Academic Excellence

MIUC offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, all taught in English, with a strong focus on International Business Management, Marketing & Social Media, and Politics & International Relations. New for the 2025/2026 academic year, we are introducing our highly anticipated MBA programme (limited places available). Our courses are designed with realworld case studies, industry insights,

and hands-on experience to prepare you for success in today’s competitive global job market.

A Prestigious UK Partnership Through our exclusive partnership

Personalised

Learning & Global Connections

over 90 nationalities, you’ll expand your global network while immersing yourself in a dynamic, multicultural environment. We also provide exclusive internship opportunities, ensuring you graduate with practical experience that sets you apart in the job market.

A Stunning Destination for Your Future

Located on Spain’s picturesque Costa del Sol, Marbella is more than just an academic hub - it’s a lifestyle. With its Mediterranean climate, international business opportunities, top-tier global schools, and lower cost of living compared to major European cities, Marbella is the perfect place to study, network, and build your future. Plus, its proximity to Malaga airport makes international travel seamless. Your Future Starts Here

Why settle for an ordinary university experience when you can have the best of both worlds - academic excellence and an enviable lifestyle?

Join MIUC and earn a prestigious UK degree while living in paradise. Applications for October 2025 are now open - apply today!

Gender-based patterns

A STUDY carried out by Cambridge University in the UK continues to support the notion of subject stereotypes for male and female students. There seem to be substantial differences in the subjects that male and female students lean towards when it comes to making academic choices.

For example, at senior school, the data showed that a much higher number of females than males leaned towards the arts, social sciences, and languages. Conversely, the male students tended to lean towards sciences, technology, classical subjects, and business.

stage (age 16 to 18), there is a shift amongst the male students towards more creative subjects like music. Conversely, aside from physics, all other sciences demonstrate a shift towards female students and lesser male dominance. In fact, in the case of biology, the trend is towards a stronger female dominance, with more females going on to study medicine and dentistry at university.

However, one area that still bears the hallmarks of male stereotypical dominance is the STEM subjects of engineering, technology, and mathematics. In fact, the data shows that the gender gap is continuing to grow, which begs the question: what are the implications of these gender-based patterns likely to be in the labour market of the future?

Quality’ in the UK - bringing that same high standard of excellence to MIUC students.

Come join us! The Benalmadena International College

IF you are looking for a great school for your child, look no further than The Benalmadena International College - we are now currently enrolling new students for September 2024 and have some availability for immediate starts.

Why us?

We are one of the most established British owned and managed schools on the Costa del Sol. We have been a delivering high quality British curriculum to young people from all over the world, for almost 30 years. We are truly international and are proud that our students are able to adapt so easily given the high levels of intercultural understanding, acceptance of new students and general welcoming atmosphere. Given our experience and small class sizes, we are used to receiving students with many different starting points and can boast year on year about fantastic results.

Our academic curriculum offer is wide. We follow the English National curriculum which enables our students to access internationally recognised and respected qualifications, with a trouble-free transition between other British and International schools. We are also UK inspected by ISI which conducts inspections of all private schools within the UK, therefore, we operate to the highest possible standards and offering the highest quality

of education to our students. Equally we also offer accredited Spanish qualifications to enable homologation of UK qualifications within Spain at the end of your child’s studies with us. Whilst our academic offering is extremely important, we are always striving to offer our students the best experiences to enables them to be even more internationally minded and culturally aware.

Some of our recent school trips have included our annual year 6 residential in El Chorro, study trips to Amsterdam, London and as far as New York! Looking ahead we have plans to extend our offer further via our Erasmus educational links. Exciting opportunities are certainly ahead for our students!

Our facilities are fantastic and we have always invested heavily in school infrastructure including most recently a new primary building. Why? Because the environment where young people learn is key to ensuring that our students are comfortable in their learning ensuring that they have every opportunity available to them whilst at school.

Our sports programme includes a wide range of activities. We regularly host inter sports competitions with our competitors. Looking ahead we are currently developing a large multipurpose sports complex, including gymnasium, swimming pool, spa and restaurant facilities. We do not stop in

our quest to provide the best for our young people and families! So, if you are looking for a truly pupil centred environment for your child, please look no further than The Benalmadena International College.

Don’t believe us?

Come and see for yourselves and speak to our outstanding students and teachers. You will not fail to be impressed by our fantastic school. Simply drop in or make an appointment.

Nueva Torrequebrada, C. Catamarán, s/n, 29630 Benalmadena, Malaga 952 561 666 bic-benal.com

No phones in Spanish classroom

SPAIN has implemented a nationwide ban on mobile phones in schools, with every autonomous community adopting the measure. The exact rules vary by region, but the main objective of this measure remains the same: to improve student focus and to reduce distractions and cyberbullying.

One year after the Ministry of Education and the State School Council recommended prohibiting mobile use during school hours, all regional governments have introduced regulations or guidelines to enforce the ban. Though official data is still pending, education authorities report better classroom behaviour and increased student interaction.

Most regions of Spain agree on a strict ban in preschool and primary school, with many extending restrictions to secondary education. Some allow limited educational use under teacher supervision,

while others give schools flexibility in how they enforce the rule.

Regions like Andalucia, Valencia, La Rioja, Navarra, and the Balearic Islands let schools decide how to regulate mobile use based on their own digital and behavioural policies.

In Andalucia, the local government is working on turning the mobile phone restriction into a formal regulation.

The Andalucian school authorities suggest that even for educational purposes, mobile use should only be

permitted from the third year of secondary school.

Studies across the globe suggest that removing mobile phones from classrooms has a positive impact on learning. Some research shows that mobile phone bans improve academic performance,

concentration, and overall student well-being. A UNESCO report highlights that when students are distracted by their phones, they need at least 20 minutes to regain focus time that would otherwise be spent learning.

While most of Spain’s regions introduced their bans in early 2024, some had already implemented restrictions years ago. Castilla y Leon banned mobile phones in schools back in 2007, followed by Castilla-La Mancha in 2014 and Galicia in 2015.

Long-term results are still being evaluated. But those early reports indicate less classroom disruption and better student engagement. Spain’s education system, one of the most appreciated in Europe and around the world, will continue monitoring the effects of the ban to find out its full impact on student learning and wellbeing.

Active Kids Clubs:

Where potential meets opportunity

ACTIVE KIDS CLUBS offers a comprehensive range of programmes designed to foster the growth and success of children in today’s fastpaced world.

Founded by Sherrie Thomas, an expert with over 25 years of experience in Physical Education and Sports Coaching, Active Kids has become a hub for holistic child development, offering diverse activities in English that cater to every child’s unique needs.

At Active Kids, we understand the importance of well-rounded learning experiences. From creative arts and sports to leadership development and STEM activities, our programmes are crafted to inspire and equip tomorrow’s leaders, thinkers, and doers.

With a focus on nurturing each child’s individual strengths, we offer a variety of exciting options, such as Creative Kids, Swim Kids, Sporty Kids, and Leader Kids, all designed to spark passion and cultivate new skills.

Our Active Kids Camps offer the perfect blend of fun and education during school holidays, while Active Excursions give children a chance to learn through adventure.

Whether exploring museums, attending theatre shows, or

embarking on ski trips, our excursions provide unforgettable experiences.

By providing a range of engaging activities, Active Kids is dedicated to shaping your child’s future with care and attention.

We invite you to explore our Programme Guide and reserve your spot online, or contact us to speak with our friendly team. At Active Kids, your child’s potential is in good hands, and their future is bright.

Tel:+34 628 119 082

Web: www.activekids.es

Email: info@activekids.es

Freewave Sports Centre, Estepona

Lessening the stress

SWITCHING from primary to secondary school can be a stressful time for young people. One minute, they are the oldest and most settled in the school; the next, they are the youngest, the smallest and the most at unease. Then there are all the other changes to get used to, for example, having multiple teachers, locating the correct classrooms, increased academic pressure,

to bite. Reassure yourself that every parent feels this way, and it is just part of the transition.

When it comes to helping children with their stresses, parents tend to agree that one of the best things you can do is be honest about what they should expect, even the more challenging parts. They may have older siblings or friends who have painted a far worse picture, and a reality check

Divine sounds Divine sounds

THE Malaga Symphony Or chestra is playing a con cert of sacred music in the Auditorio Felipe VI in aid of ASDIES, the Association of the Disabled of Estepona, on Saturday, March 8.

The concert will feature the intervention of Julia Merino, mezzo-soprano, and Ma nuel Ruíz, countertenor. Conducting the orchestra will be Juan Manuel Parra. The programme, consisting of pieces by composers such as Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, Pergolesi, and Handel, will be performed without intermissions.

tiérrez Lapuente, and is one of the oldest orchestras in Spain, and its main objectives are to promote classical music and support new and upcoming artists.

The orchestra has played thousands of concerts throughout its history, with the participation of renowned soloists such as José Cubiles, Alfredo Kraus, Montserrat Caballé, Dwayne Croft, and Andrea Bocelli.

The Malaga Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1945 by maestro Pedro Gu-

Echo of the Divine (or, ‘Eco de lo Divino’), is on at Auditorio Felipe VI at 8pm on Saturday, March 8. Tickets for this charity event are €10 (+ fees) and are available at the Auditorium box office from one hour before the concert.

Fuengirola marks International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day

FUENGIROLA is gearing up for a packed schedule of events in celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8. The town’s local government has planned more than 20 activities aimed at raising awareness, encouraging discussion, and recognising the achievements of women in various fields.

A full programme of activities:

The main part of the celebrations falls on Friday March 7, featuring three key events:

12pm: The official reading of the Institutional Manifesto, followed by a roundtable discussion on work-life balance and shared responsibilities (Salon Real).

6pm: The ‘Fuengirola por Ellas’ Gala, an event honouring outstanding

women, held at the Palacio de la Paz.

For the second year running, the town hall’s Department of Families, Equality, and Social Welfare is spearheading the initiative ‘Fuengirola por Ellas’. Councillor Cristina Bornao emphasised the importance of this campaign, stating that it aims not only to highlight the ongoing challenges women face but also to celebrate their achieve-

ments and inspire future generations.

The programme is a collaborative effort, with the departments of Sports, Culture, and Education all playing a role in broadening the impact of the initiative. As Bornao explained, this cross-sector approach strengthens Fuengirola’s commitment to equality of opportunity, embedding it into all areas of local governance.

Promoting classical music.

Credit: MSO

Fuengirola marks International Women’s Day with more than 20 events.

Credit: Ayuntamiento

de Fuengirola

Rob Sas Band at Wolfmen

POWERHOUSE of local rock, The Rob Sas Band is back, this time at a proper biker joint, Wolfmen MC in Alhaurin el Grande on Saturday, March 15.

Ready to blow the roof off one more time at this real bikers lodge, The Rob Sas Band returns to Alhaurin el Grande with a setlist of the best in classic rock numbers from ACDC to Zeppelin and ZZ Top to Sabbath!

The multitalented Sas, rock guitarist and singer, is no doubt the most experienced on the Costa del Sol scene. He has played with a plethora of greats including Steve Priest and Mick Tucker of The Sweet, and ‘Hud’ Hudson of the Strawbs.

The accomplished Rob Sas repertoire is not only

Esther Bakker Speakeasy

BORN in the Netherlands, Esther Bakker is a musical nomad who has travelled the world performing various renditions of timeless rock, pop, and jazz tunes. Esther, who is currently based in Torremolinos, astounds everyone with her rich vocals and strong voice. On Sunday, March 9, at 9pm, Esther Bakker’s amazing voice will make a triumphant, cool, soulful, and jazzy comeback to Billie’s Piano Bar and Speakeasy.

limited to the

explosive riffs of heavy rock. He has also worked with the Soul Survivors and backed Clem Curtis of The Foundations and with Jamaican soul singer Jimmy James and The Vagabonds.

The Rob Sas Band, composed of local well-known local musicians

David Gil (vocals), Rodrigo López (bass) and Dr. Bastion (drums), are all seasoned musicians on the Costa del Sol.

The Stratocaster-wielding Sas returns to Wolfmen MC in Calle Cuesta de Marzo, Alhaurin el Grande on Saturday, March 15 at 2.15pm.

Esther’s dynamic performance of gorgeous classic rock, pop, and jazz favourites is sure to make everyone’s throats tighten and their skin tingle. Her amazing rendition of Natalie Imbruglia’s timeless hit, ‘Torn,’ is one song that will undoubtedly be on her set list. This song has a particular place in Billie’s history because

one of the owners can’t help but dance, shall we say, ‘interpretively’ to it.

There will be some great vibes at Billie’s Piano Bar and Speakeasy, Torremolinos, where maybe there will be, just maybe, a surprise performance that’s not on the schedule.

Billie’s Piano Bar and Speakeasy can be found at Calle Casablanca 22, Torremolinos.

Fuengirola Gnomes

FUN night of Celtic, blues, folk for everyone on Thursday March 6 at Moochers Fuengirola Bar and Grill when The Stolen Gnomes take to the stage once more.

The band have been around the block a lot, formed in 2010, and then reformed multiple times since playing a lively folk selection mixed in with Soul, Blues, Pop all given that Celtic twist. You may have seen their smaller twin band, the more compact Whisky Piskys (a trio). Well, this is the big brother, five/six piece.

The Stolen Gnomes have played countless gigs and festivals over the years and have even shared the same stage as true greats like Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and Finbar Fury. They have also played on stage with Nathan Carter, and provided the backing for two principle Irish step dancers from Michael Flately’s Lord of the Dance.

Playing lively Irish-themed tunes and songs, Soul, Blues and pop, The Stolen Gnomes can be seen this Thursday March 6 at Moochers on Calle de la Cruz 15, Fuengirola at 8pm.

Rob Sas, the most experienced rocker there is in Malaga.

Credit: TRSB

Making new Surreal world

AGE CONCERN Marbella

- San Pedro lunches are always held at carefully selected restaurants.

Age Concern look for quality food, attentive service and ‘value for money’ pricing. The atmosphere also has to be welcoming for their special guests. As with other lunches this one was underpinned with ‘Fun and Friendship’.

Recently they gathered at Trattoria Babb and were welcomed with a lovely glass of Prosecco. Suitably refreshed and relaxed, guests sat down for a very enjoyable two-course lunch. After the first course, guests were invited to puzzle their way through a challenging quiz. You could almost hear those ‘little grey cells’ working overtime.

The main course was equally delicious and lunch finally concluded with the Raffle Draw.

Thanks to their generous guests, the raffle raised an impressive €385.

As requested, Age Concern Marbella - San Pedro will let us all know details of their next lunch as soon as they have the details.

Age Concern MarbellaSan Pedro have said thet they would like to send out a big thanks to Lynda Woodin, who organised everything, and to Trato-

rria Babb for being such wonderful hosts.

To find out more about Age Concern MarbellaSan Pedro events, there are several ways to contact them.

They have a helpline open from 10am to 6pm every weekday on 689 355 198, or by email at info@ ageconcernmarbella.com. The restaurant can be found at Avenido Burgos, 22 San Pedro de Alcantara.

ARTWORKS of world-famous Surrealist Pop artist Mark Ryden are on show at the Fuengirola museum in the exhibition ‘Surrealism Pop & Lowbrow Art’ from Friday March 14.

The exhibition includes more than 200 pieces and presents works by six other artists of the Lowbrow movement, in addition to Ryden: Todd Schorr, Marion Peck, Robert Williams, RK Sloane, Frank Kozic, and EMEK.

It can be visited for free from Tuesday to Friday, from 7pm to 9pm, and on weekends, also in the morning, from 10am to 2pm. Antonella Motinaro, the curator of the exhibition, explains that many of these artists from the Lowbrow movement ‘are mainly self-taught and work in graphic design, especially designing album covers, although they encompass quite a few

other areas. Surrealism is very present in their works as well as pop art’.

Mark Ryden, probably the most famous among them, is an American artist who began a career as a commercial artist designing album covers for artists such as Michael Jackson and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

His work is characterised by a peculiar mixture of elements, from references to classic painters such as Ingres and David to elements of pop culture, combining the childish with the disturbing. His recurring themes include meat, trees, bees, rabbits, the figure of Abraham Lincoln, and girls with a disturbing look.

Fuengirola Museum is in Plaza de España 1. Entry is free. The exhibition opens Friday, March 14 and runs until May 10.

Commitments del Sol

Adam Woodward MIDNIGHT HOUR, the hardest-working band on the Costa del Sol, returns to the Salón Varietés with their tribute to the southern Soul sounds of the Commitments.

Their show, The Sound of The Commitments, is inspired by the much-loved 1991 musical drama film and book, The Commitments. Midnight Hour performs the very same soundtrack to the already cult movie theme. Just like in the film, the band’s performance features classic songs and music from Soul legends like Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, and Otis Redding.

The musical 10-piece known for their irritable tunes like Mustang Sally, Chain of Fools, and Mr Pitiful has gained so much momentum over the last year that this gig looks like it is going to be a concert that rapidly sells out. The band’s past performances along the Costa del Sol have received massive acclaim from everyone, not least for how impressively they capture the feeling and sound of the original Commitments and their incredible musical skill and energy. It will be a high-energy night full of entertainment, singing along, and dancing with a fantastic setlist of the best in Southern Soul tunes.

Midnight Hour play Salón Varietés Theatre on Friday, March 7 and Saturday 8 at 7.30pm. Tickets are selling fast, so best book as early as possible from the website at salonverietestheatre.com. Tickets cost €10.

Beach walk language exchange

LOOKING for a chance to stretch your legs, soak up Marbella’s stunning coastline, and brush up on your Spanish or English? Then grab your walking shoes - because on Saturday, March 8, a unique Language Exchange and Health Group Walk is hitting the sands.

Forget stuffy classrooms and awkward online exchanges - this is language learning with a view. Attendees will enjoy a leisurely seaside stroll, mingling with fellow linguaphiles and chatty expats keen to swap stories (and verb tenses).

Whether you’re here to polish your Spanish, help others perfect their Queen’s Engli-

sh, or simply enjoy a good natter while the waves crash beside you, this social walk promises to be a breath of fresh air - literally.

Organisers are keeping things casual and fun, so there’s no pressure - just great conversation, a chan-

Indie icons Sexy

SPANISH Indie rock royalty Sexy Sadie are back - but blink and you might miss them. The legendary Mallorcan band, a defining force in Spain’s indie scene of the 90s, are making a long-awaited return to the stage for a single, unmissable performance on Saturday March 8 at the Puerto de Benalmadena.

Dubbed Sexy Sadie’s Day, this one-off mini-festival will celebrate the 20th anniversary of Lost & Found, the album that cemented their place in indie history. But that’s not all - the gig also serves as the launch party for Found in Malaga-Sexy Sadie/Lost & Found 20th Anniversary, a tribute album where 12 bands from Malaga pay homage to the group with their

own spin on Sexy Sadie classics.

ce to make new friends, and an excuse to get moving. All you need is comfy shoes, a bottle of water, and a positive attitude (and maybe a few useful phrases up your sleeve).

When? Saturday, March 8.

Where? Marbella Beach-

front - Ona Princesa Playa Paseo Marítimo 29602 Marbella.

Who it’s for: Anyone keen to chat, walk, and meet like-minded people. What to bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and good vibes.

The event is run by SIEIS - Costa Del Sol & Marbella, a group dedicated to well-being and positive energy. For more info, check them out on Instagram (@ sieis_pranic_healing) or visit www.marbellaprani chealing.es.

So, if you fancy a coastal conversation and a bit of fresh air, why not walk the talk this Saturday?

After the warmup acts have set the stage, it’s time for the moment everyone has been waiting for. Sexy Sadie, the band that shaped a generation, will take to the stage for a one-night-only performance. It’s their first live show in years, and the only one planned in Andalucia - a rare chance to witness a slice of indie history unfold before your eyes.

With an atmosphere set to be electric and a crowd packed with fans old and new, this promises to be the

indie event of the year. Nostalgic, celebratory, and completely unique, Sexy Sadie’s Day is the comeback gig no indie lover can afford to miss. So, mark your calendars for March 8, because this is one trip down memory lane that will be loud, live, and legendary.

Indie icons Sexy Sadie return for one-night-only gig in Benalmadena.

Credit: De Beninho - Wikipedia.

Bowie vs Queen

FANTASTIC weekend at Louie Louie Estepona with a weekend of singalong favourites from the 70s and 80s as both Queen and David Bowie resonate in the Costa del Sol’s most Rock’n’Roll venue one more time.

On Friday, March 7, ‘I’m An Alligator’, a tribute to David Bowie, takes to the overly high stage at Louie Louie for an evening of Ch Ch Ch Changes without selling the world. By the time the band goes on stage, it should be a Moonage Daydream for All The Young Dudes and time for everyone to scream Let’s Dance. Entry costs €18 at the door, and the band goes on at 11pm on Friday, March 7.

Then, on Saturday, March 8, the singalong continues with favourites ‘Queen of Magic’ coming to rock you, paying tribute to the finest band the UK ever produced out of the 70s and 80s. Don’t stop them now, because they are just looking for somebody to love, and you know what Louie Louie is like - we don’t want another one to bite the dust. Entry costs just €11 on the door.

Now why we didn’t persuade Ricky, the boss of Louie Louie to put the both acts on together, is beyond me. We should have put him more ‘under pressure’.

Louie Louie can be found just outside Estepona harbour.

Sport, culture, and

education at the forefront

BEYOND the main events for International Women’s Day in Fuengirola, the celebrations will feature a range of activities, including talks, workshops, cultural performances, and sporting events.

One of the standout events is the ‘Communication, Equality, and Sport’ panel, scheduled for March 6 at 12pm in the Palacio de la Paz. This discussion will bring together notable local fi-

gures in women’s sport, including:

Lourdes Tebas, a local handball player.

Silvia Arderius, an international handball player for the Spanish national team.

Alba Lopez, a sports psychologist.

The initiative also includes special events tailored for schoolchildren, senior citizens, and the general public, ensuring that all segments of the

community can take part in the celebrations.

While International Women’s Day serves as a focal point, the town’s approach to gender equality extends beyond a single day of recognition.

The ‘Fuengirola por Ellas’ initiative is designed to keep these conversations alive year-round, ensuring that the pursuit of equality of opportunity is a constant priority.

Bowie & Queen revived at Louie Louie.

Zimmer, Coldplay and candlelight Beach mindfulness

SPRING is coming, and there are moments that give us joy and sound to our favourite music and that fill us full of emotion.

Candlelight, with their renowned series of candlelit concerts, is returning to Anantara Villa Padierna Palace once again with a musically varied list of concerts of live music. On Saturday, March 8, the Candlelight classical musicians are giving two concerts, one after the other, both charged with emotions.

First off, at 7pm, in the luscious surroundings of the spectacular Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, a tribute to the movie score composer, Hans Zimmer, with a selection of stirring soundtrack pieces from productions such as The Lion King, Interstellar, Dunkirk, and The Dark Knight, among others.

Later, at 9pm, they will launch into their second concert of the evening with a tribute to the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons, two massively successful groups that Candlelight will honour in an evening of poprock in its most classical format. A string quartet, thousands of candles, and tunes such as Fix You, Radioactive, and The Scientist.

Candlelight is a unique

musical experience that has already surprised tens of thousands of spectators in cities like London, Paris or New York.

Tickets for the Tribute to Hans Zimmer are €29.50 each, while the Tribute to Coldplay and Imagine Dragons are €33 and are available in advance from secretmedianetwork.com.

Anantara Villa Padierna Palace is in Villa Padierna Golf Resort, Carr. de Cadiz, Marbella.

YOGA and mindful eating workshop, getting body and mind back into shape. On Saturday, March 15 at from 10am to 12.30pm.

Sofia Runne and Henna Rannikko are running the workshop at Playa Carvajal, El Kalifato Chiringuito, from 10am to 12.30pm.

The wellness workshop focuses on increasing awareness and living fully in the present. The session includes a yoga practice, relaxation through meditation, followed by a nourishing breakfast and a talk on mindful eating. During the talk, participants will learn how to be consciously present in their daily meals.

Mindful eating involves focusing on your food, appreciating it, enjoying the experience, and fulfilling the body’s physiological needs and still fully enjoying eating.

Sofia Runne, a certified yoga instructor and the founder of Soulfiyoga (@soulfiayo ga), is offering yoga and wellness services on the Costa del Sol, focusing on holistic well-being and mental balance.

Working with Sofia is Henna Rannikko, a licensed nutrition therapist and the founder of Ravitsemusklinikka (@ravitsemus klinikka) Nutrition Clinic.

Together, Henna and Sofia offer unique wellness experiences that combine yoga, nutrition, and mindfulness in Costa del Sol, and they organise wellness workshops each month together.

The yoga session is suitable for all levels, and participants can choose from three breakfast options, which also include coffee or tea. The price is €39 per person, and registrations can be made by WhatsApp to Sofia on +358 407 696 755, or Henna on +358 408 442 263.

Upon registration, you will receive further instructions and location details.

Peruvian Flair at Coya Club SPOIL MUM:

SITUATED within the exclusive Puente Romano Beach Resort, Coya Club in Marbella is something that stands out as a sensory drop of luxury, seamlessly blending high-end Peruvian cuisine with a pulsating nightlife vibe.

On a visit in summer 2024, we were swept away by the intoxicating energy and impeccable spread. The openair courtyard, surrounded by lush foliage and Inca-inspired decor with an Art-Decor tone, set a heavenly scene beneath starry skies. The menu is a masterful fusion of Peruvian tradition

with Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish influences. Standouts included the Chilean seabass gyozas and the wagyu brisket empanadas. Being Peruvian in style, ceviche features strongly on the menu. Highly recommendable were the zesty yellowfin tuna ceviche and the wagyu tataki, traditional Peruvian dishes, treated with a sprinkle of the exquisite to remind you where you are. That said, prices were not ridiculous, despite being sited in Puente Romano, but they did remind one of being in the most exclusive and luxurious spots in the Golden

Mile.

Food paired well with a passionflower-infused Pisco Sour as the dinner vibe converted into a more night club vibe. Service was flawless, with warm friendly staff.

Coya Club is due to reopen on March 13 with, no doubt, a fresh new exceptional dining experience to woo the Puente Romano crowd. Well worth a visit for an exceptional night out, especially with exceptional company.

Coya club is located in Av. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 222

Celebrate Mother’s Day in Style at La Sala Puerto Banus

LA SALA PUERTO BANUS is inviting you to a super special Mother’s Day bash on Sunday, March 30.

We’re celebrating mums with our famous Sunday Roast, a two-course lunch packed with all the trimmings, including tender roast beef, succulent roast chicken, and roast pork with crispy crackling, all paired with a glass of Champagne, creating the perfect culinary celebration at just €42 per person.

The afternoon wouldn’t be complete without sensational live music from Marbella’s top performers Gary B Poole, Wall Street Band and Diva Fever, and we’ve got face painting and games to keep the whole family entertained.

To make the afternoon even more special, each Mum will receive a surprise gift from us, making Mother’s Day a day to remember at La Sala Puerto Banus!

Reserve your table for a Mother’s Day filled with love, laughter, and exquisite dining at La Sala Puerto Banus today at: reservations@LaSa laBanus. com or call 952 814 145.

Chorizo – An Icon Of Spanish Cuisine

Ballet comes to Alhaurin

CHORIZO holds a special place in Spanish cuisine shaped by a strong cultural tradition that dates back to the 16th century, when paprika was introduced to Spain. It began to be used extensively to give chorizo its distinctive colouring and flavour.

The chorizo was shaped historically by the many gastronomic traditions, festivals, and cultural and even religious traditions founded in many rural villages in Spain. Unlike cattle that were bred outside of the villages, pigs were left to roam in denser urban environments and villages and were slaughtered by the families of the villages.

How it’s made - Minced pork meat, and pork fat is generously seasoned with paprika and garlic, and stuffed into the natural pork intestine. Other spices such as pepper, cumin, bay leaf, thyme, onion, and oregano may also be added. It’s dried and cured for around 50 days, with some types smoked using oak wood. The sausages are tied and exposed to air in the natural environment with good ventilation. Chorizo fresco is raw and does not under-

pork fat, paprika, crushed red pepper, and garlic and must be cooked before eating.

the family from the Ba-

Semi-cured (semicurado) - This is a fresh sausage that has been fermented and in some cases, the meat is smoked, but not dried out completely.

CONTINUING to grow as an outstanding location for cultural experiences, the Antonio Gala theatre in Alhaurin el Grande is to host two ballets for all the family from the Ballet Premiera of Ukraine: Snow White and Romeo and Juliet.

The fermentation process adds acidity and prolongs the shelf life of the chorizo.

Cured (curado) - This type of chorizo is what is most commonly served as thinly sliced pieces, usually as tapas. The meat is cured, or fermented and dried until hard and has a long shelf life. It also comes in many varieties by region of origin and here are some of the most common:

go this process. Types of chorizo - There are three main distinct varieties of chorizo found in Spain: Soft (chorizo fresco)This fresh, raw sausage is made from pork meat,

Chorizo Ibérico - Made from Ibérico pork, often cured and eaten sliced.

Chorizo Riojano - A smoky, paprika-rich chorizo from La Rioja..

Chorizo de Pamplona - Finely ground and has a uniform texture, resembling salami.

Chorizo de Cantimpalos - A protected designation chorizo from Segovia.

Chorizo de Leon - Characteristic horseshoe-shaped sausage typically dark red with a strong spicy flavour.

Chorizo Extramadura - A soft textured sausage that uses around 50 per cent baked potato, 10 per cent lean Iberian pork meat, and 40 per cent fatty meat.

Cooking - Chorizo can be found in numerous recipes such as chicken and chorizo , fabada Asturiana and chorizo al vino (chorizo braised in red wine).

Of course, dried and semi-cured chorizo is perhaps best known served as a tapas or snack.

So there you go, a quick insight (although only the start!) into one of Spain’s most iconic products, enjoy !!!

This will be the ballet company’s first trip to Spain, and they begin their tour in Andalucia, specifically Alhaurin el Grande. The group counts on 33 dancers and has already given over 600 performances around the world with their colourful costumes, spectacular decoration, and beautiful choreographies.

over 600 performances

On Friday, March 21, the Ballet Premiera of Ukraine presents their interpretation of Romeo and Juliet, and on Saturday, March 22, Snow White, giving an ideal excuse to introduce the young ones to the world of classical ballet, while

at the same time presenting an opportunity for parents and children to spend an evening together and enjoy the same entertainment.

There is also a charitable aspect to this, their first performance of a tour of Spain, in that funds raised will go to three Alhaurin-based charities: Alhmer, a local Alzheimer’s support organisation dedicated to offer help to both Alzheimer’s sufferers and their families; Un Sí Por La Vida, who help and inform sufferers of cancer; and Aprodal, a charity for those with disabilities. Tickets are already on sale for the concerts at a price of €24.90 from gi glon.com.

Gibraltar cave comedy

THREE of Britain’s best loved comedians will perform at Gibraltar’s St Michael’s Cave in April, May and June. Fans happy to take the trip down will get to see the panel show regulars bring hilarity off the screen and onto the stage at the unique venue’s natural auditorium in a limestone cave. Audiences have the chance to see Russell Howard ‘put the world to rights in his own uniquely hilarious way’ at three shows, two on April 11, at 7pm and 10pm, and another on April 12 at 7pm.

Tickets cost £40.

Next to take the cave will be Sarah Millican who will be telling audiences how she went from being a quiet child to a loud and famous stand-up comedian du-

ring her Late Bloomer show. At the time of writing 96 per cent of the £40 tickets for her 8pm shows on May 9 and 10 have been sold. Last but not least is Ramesh Ranganathan who will be ‘examining the human condition’ and asking, ‘are people inherently good?’ during his brand new show Hustle, which will ‘provide no real answers’ but will include ‘swearing and adult content’. Tickets cost £41 for his 7.30pm performances on June 11 and 12. All shows will be performed at St Michael’s Cave.

Tickets are available at www.buytic kets.gi, prices include a shuttle bus service from Midtown Coach and Car Park on Reclamation Road to the venue.

Credit: Ballet Premiera of Ukraine

Romeo & Juliet and Snow White.

The unique venue St Michael’s Cave in Gibraltar will host the three comedians.

Credit: Flickr: Mike McBey

Swiss Jazz master Author John Julius Reels

SIMON SPIESS Quartet has reformed and play the Clarence Jazz Club on Saturday, March 8. While the members of the quartet have not played together with this formation for a long time, they have a strong musical bond with each other. This closeness gives their sound an organic solidity that lasts and moves until the last note.

Malcolm Braff shines on the piano with an expressive touch, sometimes bluesier, and inspires with his percussive and pulsating way of caressing and breaking the melody. The solos of saxophonist Simon Spiess shine with unfathomable sensitivity and creative power.

Bänz Oester impresses with his clearly emphasised bass lines and his melodic and lyrical solos, which fit perfectly into the sound structure of the band and yet stand out for their uniqueness.

Dühsler subtly underlines the vibrant and cheerful rhythms with brushes and light pulses on the cymbals, providing the necessary structure.

Spiess’s warm, soulful saxophone and innovative sound design create a mesmerising mix of jazz, electronica, and global textures. Known for dynamic performances, the Quartet grooves hard and paints vivid soundscapes,

making every unique.

Seeing a Simon Spiessled band live is to witness a Swiss jazz giant that’s both accessible and avant guard.

The Simon Spiess Quartet plays Clarence Jazz Club in Torremolinos on Saturday, March 8, at 10pm. Tickets are available from the Clarence website at clarencejazzclub.com and cost between €20 and €25.

AS part of the ‘Stories about Benahavis’ series of talks, John Julius Reels presents ‘The Foreign vs The Familiar’.

Native New Yorker, John Julius Reel, has lived for over 15 years in Sevilla with his Sevillian wife and two bilingual / bicultural sons. In his talk, he will focus on how, when, and where the foreign and the familiar can blur, merge into each other, and even swap places in the course of an international experience.

Using snippets from

home life, street life, daily habits, holidays, food, religion, language, history, sexual politics, and civic pride - and will also ask for participation from the audience.

“John Julius Reel gets as close as anybody can to the heart of the matter: he’s actually married to a sevillana, which gives him a highly privileged view of what it is to be Spanish.” - Chris Stewart, author of the Driving Over Lemons series.

John’s presentation will take place at 5.30pm on March 25 in the Benahavis

While drummer Samuel

Credit: SS

Simon Spiess Trio.

John Julius Reels.

Credit: JJR

March is Women’s Month

Photo credit: Benalmadena town hall

JESICA TRUJILLO:

Benalmadena’s Equality councillor invited young and old to enjoy Women’s Day events.

MARCH 8 might be Women’s Day worldwide but in Benalmadena, March is Women’s Month.

Under the ‘Together, Diverse and Unstoppable’ heading, Equality councillor Jesica invited young and old to enjoy all the planned events.

March 6: The town hall’s formal Women’s Day celebration with official recognition for prominent Benalmadena women held at the Casa de Cultura at 11am.

Screening of the film Shayda at 8pm, again at the Casa de Cultura.

March 7: Second Benalmadena Equality Gala organised by the town hall and the MDM with awards for the women who have stood out for their defence of equality on a national, regional, provincial and local level at 6.30pm.

March 13: Screening of the film Gondola

at the Casa de Cultura at 8pm

March 14: The Amigos de La Historia (Friends of History) group organise an informal debate focusing on The Woman in Pre-history at 5.30pm at the Casa de Cultura. There is no entry fee, but it is necessary to book beforehand.

Pepa Luna Casanova presents her book Gloria en el Infierno (Glory in Hell), with a talk afterwards at 6pm at the Arroyo de la Miel public library.

March 21: Talk on Mujeres Artistas (Women Artists) at the Museo Precolombino at 6pm. No entry fee although it is necessary to book beforehand.

March 22: Storytelling at the Arroyo de la Miel public library.

March 28: Children’s Workshop at the Museum Precolombiano with booking necessary beforehand.

From Mondays to Sundays:

–

Malaga’s Eco maze

LABYRINTHUS PARK has opened in Humilladero, Malaga, bringing Spain’s largest outdoor maze, spanning over 7,400 square metres.

The hi-tech ecological park used the latest eco-tech from Spanish company Bioo with innovations that are changing the face of the tourism sector.

Designed by celebrated landscaper Adrian Fisher and inspired by designs from the Alhambra, this first-of-its-kind Biootech labyrinth is a mix of nature and technology. It is suitable for visitors of all ages who can explore routes lasting between 30 minutes to two hours.

First unveiled at FITUR tourism fair, the park boasts sustainable tourism with Bioo technology, in that plants act as Bioological switches, responding to human touch to trigger immersive environments, while Bioo Panels - advanced Biooreactors - capture energy from soil to light the heart of the maze and generate irrigation. The self-sufficient system creates a seemingly magical, ecofriendly system.

Fisher’s design offers a variety of levels of difficulty, merging art, science, and nature. The Bioo Switches ensure plants remain unharmed, and so, championing sustainability. It’s a big step toward a more eco-conscious tourism, showing that the new Biootechnology can actually protect nature.

Credit: LP

Labyrinthus park in Malaga.

Promoted by businessman Rafael Mesa, Labyrinthus Park aims to boost Humilladero’s economy and put Malaga at the cuttingedge of green destinations. Beyond just fun, it offers educational activities to improve environmental awareness, redefining ecotourism and adding another reason to many for holidaying in the region.

The park can be found in Parque de Santillan, Mollina, 29520.

Adintre Carnival

JOYCE GYIMAH of the Adintre association, set up to provide support to those who most need it, is holding a carnival celebration on Saturday, March 8, where everyone will be dressed up in fancy dress.

The all-day event at the Peña Los 7 Días at the Fuengirola fairgrounds will have food, drink, and plenty of live music.

With the amazingly generous coming together of the Costa del Sol community, Joyce and Adintre managed to raise the money needed for new showers and an employee to manage them and keep them open for the homeless all year round. Now her target is to pay for a muchneeded psychologist for the Adintre centre in Fuengirola.

Joyce Gyimah explained that, “with this charity event we intend to raise funds to be able to get a psychologist who allows us to serve the users of our association.

“Today any of us can find ourselves in a situation of need with the cost of living, and we have many people to attend to.

Entry to the carnival event is €15 and includes drinks, live music, raffles, auctions and paella.

The event begins at 12pm and goes on all day long until 11pm at the Peña Los 7 Días in Recinto Feral Permanente, 11, Fuengirola.

The €15 can be paid via Bizum to 639 259 162, or via transfer to the Adintre account ES 36 2103 0135 7200 3001 6203.

“That’s why I invite everyone to collaborate with us through this party.”

Adintre fundraising event at Fuengirola carnival.

SOCIALSCENE II euroweeklynews.com

Art of Gigi López MamaQuilla fundraiser, Coya

CASA DE LAS TEJERINAS in Estepona is hosting an exhibition by contemporary UK artist Gigi López until March 12.

The exhibition is open Tuesdays to Friday from 9am to 8pm, and the same on Saturdays with a break between 2pm and 4pm. The show consists of 23 images painted with acrylic on canvas.

Gigi López (Angela López Sarney) was born in the UK. Her creative passion is rooted in her rich Spanish heritage, which led her in 2023 to move to live and work in Malaga. Her sharp-witted observations of the world during her extensive travels have awakened a deep desire to foster meaningful connections with others. The abstract works are visual odysseys through enchanting worlds, woven from her memories and personal explorations.

from surrealist triumphs to pieces of social commentary and realism, each giving a hat-tip the struggles and injustices faced by marginalised voices. She defends the constant need to amplify these narratives, advocating for issues such as racial equity, gender equality, mental well-being and much more. With an open invitation, Gigi immerses herself in a look through

her artistic lens, skilfully applying acrylics, collage, mixed media, wax, templates, textures and photographs to develop her unique perspective of the world.

The exhibition is free to enter and lasts until March 12 at the The Casa de Las Tejerinas, Plaza de las Flores, Estepona.

COYA restaurant and nightclub in Puente Romano is to host a ‘Night of Giving’ as they launch MamaQuilla, a global initiative dedicated to empowering women and children worldwide.

Inspired by the Andean moon goddess, a revered symbol of protection and femininity, MamaQuilla reflects the very essence of Coya - rooted in Peru, where the brand draws its inspiration, vibrant spirit, and cultural heritage.

Seamlessly blending immersive dining with purposeful giving, the initiative will raise funds for vital causes through annual events across Coya’s global locations.

To mark International Women’s Day, Coya Marbella will proudly launch MamaQuilla, celebrating the strengths and contributions of women worldwide in partnership with the association Despertar sin Violencia.

Guests will enjoy COYA’s signature Peruvian à la carte menu, cocktails, and entertainment from Coya Music DJs.

A good portion of the proceeds will directly support Despertar sin Violencia. ‘Despertar Sin Violencia’ is a non-profit association that seeks to eradicate gender and domestic violence in a time when more and more cases are being reported.

Their primary objective is to achieve changes in Spanish law on domestic violence through a variety of actions and to raise awareness on the issue to help victims to embark upon a new stage as free people, without fear, and with a new life.

Bookings are now open for the event at Coya in Puente Romano on Saturday, March 8, from 9pm onwards. Coya is in Puente Romano, Marbella. Call 682 112 233 to book.

MamaQuilla at Coya, Puente Romano.

Gigi’s creations range

Credit: Gigi López

From the Dons & Doñas series.

Credit: Puente Romano

Best bar in Fuengirola

Adam Woodward

CHRISTY’S Irish Gastropub, Fuengirola’s only luxury sports lounge, has just been given a full five points on TripAdvisor, making it, according to the review site, the best bar in Fuengirola!

Congratulations to all the crew down at Christy’s for making the difference and raising the bar. They had sat at the number two position for the last 18 months, but they have now sealed it! Out of the 109 bars that have a TripAdvisor profile in Fuengirola, they came top of the lot.

But what is their secret? How do they do it?

Could it be their reliability? Open 11am through to 1am seven days a week? There’s no closing for holidays, except for one staff party in December. It might be because they hire experienced professionals and make sure they look after them well. There’s a low staff turnover, so you will always see a familiar smiling face when you pop in for a pint.

Maybe it’s their amazing ice-cold beer bucket offers, or that they boast the best pint of Guinness in Fuengirola. Perhaps success is down to their fantastic food 12 hours a day, starting with breakfast 11am to 2pm - full Irish, small Irish, or a handy breakfast wrap.

There are lunch and dinner meals to fit all bellies too, from light snacks to the colossal Tomahawk challenge (five free pints of Gui-

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tes!). Great food, all day long, and without the siesta.

How in just a few short years, Christy’s has become the top bar, the number one, in a town with as many bars as Fuengirola is a mystery.

Could it be their dedication to sports? Premiership and Scottish football, rugby, golf, and it wouldn’t be Irish without GAA and horse racing, now, would it? Could it be that it’s the cleanest and tidiest Irish bar this reporter has ever seen (I’ve known a lot)?

One factor sure to have influenced voters on TripAdvisor is the fact they actually care about their customers. Guests from a nearby hotel complain their rooms come without a kettle. So, Christy’s have decided to loan them kettles absolutely free. All they have to do is leave a small deposit. What other bar in Fuengirola cares that much?

It could be one of those factors, but it’s probably all of them. Christy’s is more than a pub. It’s a family. From the customers to the staff to those on holiday - everyone makes a point of coming back.

OPEN 11.00 - 01.00 7 DAYS A WEEK

DELICIOUS GASTROPUB FOOD SERVED ALL DAY

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ness for anyone who can finish it in under 45 minu-

ness for anyone in under 45 minu-

Find Christy’s on Calle Olleria 20, Fuengirola, to see why

Well done on that TripAdvisor rating, Christy’s Irish Gastropub. It’s a prize well deserved.

they are the best in town.

soul food Hamburger soul food

GOURMET hamburgers have surged in popularity across Spain, evolving from fast-food staples to culinary stars. The trend, reflects a shift toward high-quality ingredients and creative recipes. Then, Bully Bunz in Marbella popped up, going seriously old school and stripping back the paraphernalia to bring back love to the humble hamburger. Behind it all, Andrew Foldi and Joe Canales.

EWN: Whose idea was it?

Andrew: Working in Manuka as a consultant, I got chatting with Joe about this idea. So we started looking for places that has the vibe. And we found this.

EWN: You make your own bread?

Andrew: I have a hard head, and I wanted to do everything. I’d rather have a small menu and make it all from scratch than

have a huge menu and buy everything in.

EWN: How many buns did you make today?

Andrew: We did 220 today. Traditional Martin’s potato-flour burger buns. It holds up well. It doesn’t squish and fall apart.

EWN: What about the barbecued beef?

Andrew: People have been back a few times already for the same thing, so we don’t want them to get bored. It’s a barbecue burger. Andrea [his wife] said it the other day. ‘Your daddy’s backyard barbecue burger’. It’s nostalgic.

A Bully Bunz burger is uncomplicated and full of natural goodness - one you don’t need cutlery for. It’s a real burger. In the four days they had been open,‘It went from 100 burgers to 150, to 200…’ Calle Vicente Blasco Ibánez 9, Marbella

SOCIALSCENE II

Piano Man is back!

AFTER three years on tour and travelling the world, Paul Maxwel is back in the Costa del Sol with some exciting news for March.

Paul has decided to take a break from touring and get back to enjoying his hometown - Marbella. He’s returning to his roots for an exciting new challenge at the rebirth of the iconic piano bar, Marvellous. On Thursday, March 6, Paul will be launching Marvellous Live in collaboration with the Sala Group and some special guest stars. The venue in Puerto Banús goes back a long way with Paul, back to the early 2000s, in fact.

Expo Tattoo

Ian Radford, chairman of Sala Group, reflected on the nostalgia and excitement surrounding the event, saying, “Paul and I first met in 2000 at the Marvellous bar in Puerto Banus. Those were truly

some of the best days, and it’s incredibly exciting to revive that energy and magic for both old and new faces. Marvellous Live promises to bring the same iconic spirit to every night and deliver the ultimate live music nightlife experience.”

Some of the most talented local and international artists are lined up to lead audiences on a captivating musical journey through the 70s, 80s, and

90s, featuring an electric mix of Disco, Soul, Motown, and Rock. “We will create an ever-evolving lineup of world-class entertainment full of fun,” says Paul.

There will also be a big exclusive official opening party on March 22, but that one will be invite-only.

Marvellous live launches on Thursday, March 6 at 11pm at La Sala, Puerto Banus.

lacio de Exposiciones y Congresos in Estepona

tists in the same room. As well, he highlighted that there will be artists performing tattoos so complex that they will create them over the entire three days the event lasts.

tional tattoo artists from ce, Brazil, Venezuela, the Czech Republic, and Ro-

THE 10th ExpoTattoo is happening from Friday, March 7, to Sunday, March 9, at the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos in Estepona and will bring together 120 national and international tattoo artists from countries as diverse as Colombia, the UK, France, Brazil, Venezuela, the Czech Republic, and Romania.

According to the councillor for Youth, Julia Simón, the tattoo event is one of the three biggest exhibitions of tattoos in the country.

The event this year will be raising funds for the Association of Children’s Oncology Volunteers of the Maternity Hospital of Malaga (AVOI). The event organiser has said that the layout will be different this year and more open so visitors will be able to see a greater number of ar-

On all three days, the event will open at 12pm. All tattoos done during the day will participate in a contest in more than 12 di-

there will be live music on Friday and Saturday from 7pm, along with the competition of the best tattoo of each day. As well as the live tattooing, expect DJs, bands, and live graffiti painting.

The entry ticket for each day will be €5, with the total of the money raised given to the AVOI charity.

Paul Maxwel performing his Piano Man set.

Tattooist at work at ExpoTattoo.

Ireland’s most successful artist

HEAD CHEF, songwriter, politician, TV presenter, and actor, Kevin Sharkey, or just Sharkey as he’s known, taught himself to paint and started selling his works at 30. He has had galleries dedicated to selling his art in Dublin, Barcelona, Ibiza, Portugal and now central

Sharkey, Ireland’s most successful contemporary artist, has sold more than 10,000 of his works, some to the likes of Courtney Love, Whitney Houston, Matt Lucas and Michael Portillo. He has just opened his gallery in Calle Marín García, in central MalaEuro Weekly decided to pay him a visit.

How’s the new gallery going? First day, and I’ve just sold a painting for €7,500 to a guy from

Wyoming.

EWN: There are trains of Irishness and African in the paintings.

Sharkey: I suppose there is. The African side is the bold colours and maybe the ones that look like figures. I was adopted by a white family as a child and thrown into Dublin culture. I won 37 medals for Irish dancing. Perhaps people were just surprised to see a black kid doing a jig.

EWN: Will you go back into politics?

Sharkey: No. The closer I got to power, the more I could see that politics changes nothing. If politics did anything, they would ban it. I stood for the Irish presidency, but after selling more than 10,000 paintings, I decided to dedicate my time to me, my dogs, and my magpie.

BenalBollywood

ALL dance is an art, a means of communication, a way of doing a physical activity, and sharing. This particular activity also seeks to learn and connect with another culture, that of India.

Professor Anita Tolaram performs a series of dances and choreographies adapted for all ages in Bollywood. Fine and coarse psychomotricity is worked on and will help to learn to coordinate the different movements of the body in a Bollywood style.

The dynamic of the course is to learn fun choreographies and, at the end of the course, perform a Bo-

Anita classes.Bollywood’s

llywood exhibition with all the Bollystudents. Also at the end of the course, attendees receive a certificate from dance instructor Adars Sawalani Tolaram, AKA Anita. All you need to bring is comfortable and colourful clothing (Hindu style), a mat, a towel, and a bottle of water.

also organises

Adarsh Tolaram, Anita, is a dance teacher, choreographer, and founder of the Bollywoodmania Malaga Cultural Association. Through dance she transmits the culture of her country and events and shows and has taught this course in a variety of schools, fitness centres, and cultural spaces in Malaga and internationally. Bollywood classes are held at the Edificio Innova, Arroyo de la Miel every Saturday from 5pm to 6.30pm. To sign up for classes email: bo llywoodmania@hotmail. com, or call Anita on 609 100 484.

Sharkey in his new Malaga gallery.

Europe’s first air taxi

BENIDORM made history by hosting Europe’s first simultaneous flight of an air taxi and multiple drones in an urban environment. The demonstration, part of the European U-ELCOME project and coordinated by the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), took place over the Poniente and Levante beaches, marking a major milestone in urban air mobility.

The EH216-S air taxi, developed by EHang, flew alongside a dozen drones performing tasks such as cargo transport, survei-

U-Space service providers - ENAIRE, ITG, and UAB - managed the flight operations through advanced digital platforms, ensuring seamless coordination and safety under Europe’s evolving U-space regulations.

Local officials, including Mayor Antonio Pérez, praised Benidorm’s leadership in aerial innovation, while UPV and EHang representatives highlighted the city’s role in accelerating air taxi adoption.

Israel Quintanilla, head of UPV’s Official Drone

Commission, stated that the success of this trial will fast-track the regulatory framework and infrastructure needed to integrate air taxis into European cities.

Despite the breakthrough, challenges remain before air taxis become a regular sight. Regulations must be finalised, vertiports need construction, and public trust in passenger drones must grow. However, with the U-ELCOME project set to conclude by year’s end, Benidorm’s demonstration offers a glimpse into a future where urban air travel

INTERVIEW

Roxana Ștefan from Romania - Speaking European

Many Romanians have chosen to relocate to southern Spain in search of a better quality of life. Roxana Mihaela Ștefan, a 37-year-old Romanian woman from Constanța, moved to Benalmadena about two years ago with her family.

EWN: Why did you decide to move here?

Roxana: A vacation here eventually led to our final move two years later. There were several key reasons behind our decision: a better healthcare and education system, the warm climate, and an overall im proved quality of life.

Mihaela Ștefan.

EWN: What do you work at here?

Roxana: I work in the tourism industry, managing several holiday apartments on the Costa del Sol.

EWN: How do you find the cost of living compared to Romania?

Roxana: Lower. Food is slightly cheaper, and dining out at a restaurant is affordable. We also save on fuel since there are good transport connections

Fake or fortune

OLD MASTER paintings are in theory as scarce as ‘hen’s teeth’ but reality there are plenty around and in the case of Peter Paul Rubens around 600 have been authenticated.

For some years it has been suggested that his painting Samson and Delilah which cost the National Gallery in London several million pounds as early as the 1980s is in fact a fake, based on an AI study in 2021 which was since debunked.

Living in Antwerp (now Belgium but then part of the Holy Roman Empire,) in the late 15th century, Rubens is considered Belgium’s greatest Old Master and was kni ghted for his work by both Spain and Britain.

The latest suggestion that this is a 20th-century copy comes from Greek art historian Euphrosyne Doxiadis in her new book ‘The Fake Rubens’ al though this accusation finds little support from one of Belgium’s top Rubens experts Bert Watteeuw.

Not only does he pour scorn on her status as a genuine expert, suggesting that anyone of any standard would have already checked with his Antwerp Rubens House and other specialist houses about the painting.

Whilst the National Gallery has kept a dignified silence on the matter of the painting, it is no doubt delighted that one of the great Rubens scholars has come out publicly to dismiss the claim by Doxiadis which Watteeuw considers is purely invented to promote her book.

to Malaga. Additionally, unlike in Romania, here public schools offer extended hours with extracurricular activities for a very low fee.

EWN: How is life in the Malaga area?

Roxana: The job market isn’t particularly well-paid, and you won’t get rich here, but the peaceful lifestyle makes up for it. For children, there are plenty of opportunities, from sports to beautiful places to visit. Also, the weather allows them to spend a lot of time outdoors.

EWN: Do you see yourself returning to Romania?

Roxana: We’ve invested here, and I don’t think we’ll be going back to Romania anytime soon.

Roxana

An example of the EH216-S air taxi concept, capturing Europe’s groundbreaking step into real-world urban air travel.

Credit: Rubens House

Rubens expert Bert Watteeuw.

Costa Blanca North €15 million transformation

AFTER years of disuse Benidorm has formed plans for the old bullring, it is to be converted into the new Benidorm Open Arena.

Three parts of the modern vision for the arena have been announced by the town council. The first is the Live Arena, with €10.5 million worth of investment in this space used to rehabilitate and convert the bullring ‘into a large multifunctional space for cultural, social and sports activities’ according to Mayor Toni Perez. Some €3 million of investment will go toward a Youth Arena, with a youth centre. Perez said they aim to create a space for integration, training and leisure for local young people. Finally, there is the Arena Encuentro, a development of local connections and communities around Plaza de Toros improving public spaces, with green zones and resting areas. The plans are dependent upon EU funding although the city is guaranteeing €6million investment. They could have the space completed by 2029.

Axarquia Open-air libraries

THE authorities of Velez-Malaga have started to install BookCrossing points in various parks of the town. This way, some public spaces of the town will become open-air libraries, according to the town hall.

BookCrossing is a community-driven project that encourages the free exchange of books. The concept behind it is simple: readers can take any book, enjoy it, and then return it for others to read. Everyone can also contribute by leaving behind books they have finished. The project wants to promote a love for reading, knowledge-sharing, and free access to literature for all.

BookCrossing movement is not new for Velez-Malaga. The Axarquia town already has designated book exchange points along the beaches of Torre del Mar, Caleta de Velez, and Benajarafe. In fact, Torre del Mar expanded its beach library in April 2024, due to increasing demand. The facility now offers a shaded reading area, board games, a book lending and storage service.

Mallorca Promising future for Palma

THE renovation of Palma’s Paseo Marítimo is scheduled for completion by April 2025, following almost two years of extensive work. The transformation will bring significant improvements to the seafront, with wider pedestrian and cycling paths, making it more accessible for everyone. New green spaces, rest areas, and enhanced lighting will provide a more pleasant environment.

While businesses along the promenade have faced challenges during the construction period, they can look forward to increased foot traffic and tourism once the project is finished. The new layout will create an inviting space for outdoor events and cultural activities, boosting the local economy.

The overhaul also prioritises sustainability, with eco-friendly design elements and a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents. This transformation is set to position Palma as a modern Mediterranean city.

Costa Blanca South Lights, Camera, Alicante

CIUDAD DE LA LUZ Film Studios in Alicante is expecting a strong 2025 after a very successful 2024, which hosted major productions.

A top North American studio - possibly Universal, Paramount, Warner Bros, Disney, or Sony - is in talks to film a major project there, potentially booking the entire facility for the year.

SPTD, which manages the studio, is leading negotiations under strict confidentiality. If secured, this production could delay other projects, requiring careful scheduling.

In 2024, the complex hosted 14 productions, generating €60 million. Highlights included Venom 3, Bad Influence, Under Paris, and The Tigers, along with TV series like The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon and The Law of the Sea.

SPTD is also improving infrastructure, including a €1.17 million solar power project to boost energy efficiency. These upgrades reinforce Ciudad de la Luz as a key player in the global film industry.

Almeria

Major Almeria investment

PUBLIC buildings across Almeria Province are receiving a significant boost thanks to government investment aimed at preserving cultural heritage and improving community spaces. The initiative, which funds essential renovations, ensures that key facilities remain accessible and functional for future generations.

Among the standout projects is the rehabilitation of the Gabriel Espinar municipal library in Huercal-Overa. With a grant of €626,000, the library has undergone extensive improvements to enhance accessibility and preserve its historic character. This investment highlights the commitment to maintaining vital learning spaces and cultural hubs.

Another major success story is the transformation of the Molino del Lugar in Zurgena. Once an old mill, the building has been restored and converted into an ethnographic museum, showcasing the area’s rich history. Funded with €650,000 from the PIREP programme, this development brings new opportunities for tourism and education.

Costa Calida

Corvera’s summer flights

HOLIDAYMAKERS flying to and from the Region of Murcia will still have plenty of travel options this summer as Ryanair announces its 2025 flight schedule from Corvera Airport. The airline will operate eight routes, connecting the Costa Calida to Birmingham, Bournemouth, Dublin, East Midlands, Glasgow, and London Luton and Stansted. This summer’s schedule has two fewer destinations than last year, as flights to Manchester and Marrakech have been removed. However, Ryanair has increased overall seat availability by 7 per cent, ensuring more passengers can take advantage of these routes.

The airline also highlighted its contribution to the local economy, stating that the summer schedule will help support over 450 jobs in the region.

To celebrate the launch, Ryanair is offering special fares starting at €21.99 for travel until the end of April. These discounted tickets are available to book on www.ryanair.com

PETS

Ewa’s pet-sitter house-sits across Europe

TERESA, Ewa’s owner, travels between a number of countries in Europe. It’s not always possible to take Ewa with her so Teresa finds housesitters through HouseSitMatch. The pet-sitters stay with Ewa and care for her when Teresa and her husband are away. The service means that Ewa gets to stay in her own home where she is safe and comfortable, without too much disruption. And it saves Teresa money too!

HouseSitMatch saves you money

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

HouseSitMatch is safe - all members are checked

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

Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed

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

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

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

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

3. Create a profile with photos

4. Sitters apply for the available house-sits, you hold a video inter-

view via the site and match!

How does it work?

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

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

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

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

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

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

Teresa, dog owner

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

Claws for celebration!

CUTTING your pet’s nails can be a simple task if done correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you keep your pet’s nails trimmed and healthy.

1. Gather the right tools

Before you start, ensure you have a pair of pet nail cli-

to the quick.

2. Get your pet comfortable

Make sure your pet is calm and relaxed. You may want to do this after a play session or cuddle time. Gently handle their paws and get them used to having their nails touched for a few days before trimming.

3. Inspect the nai-

ls

Look for the clear or slightly pinkish ‘quick’, which contains blood vessels. Avoid cutting this part, as it can cause bleeding. If your pet has dark nails, trim small amounts at a time to prevent cutting

too deep.

4. Trim the nails

Start by clipping just the tip of each nail. For dogs, clip at a slight angle, following the natural curve of the nail. For cats, trim only the sharp tip to avoid discomfort.

5. Reward your pet

After each session, reward your pet with praise or a treat to reinforce positive behaviour.

If you’re unsure about trimming your pet’s nails or if your pet is particularly nervous, consider seeking help from a professional groomer or vet. They can guide you through the process or perform the task for you, ensuring your pet stays safe and comfortable.

This is Ewa, and like her owners she lives between two homes.

ACE OF SHADES

DGT cracks down on speeding

THE Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has reported that over 1,100 drivers were caught in 2024 exceeding speed limits by more than 80 km/h on interurban roads.

Such offences are classified as crimes against road safety under Article 379 of the Penal Code and can result in prison sentences of three to six months, fines of six to 12 months, or community service for 31 to 90 days. Additionally, all offenders face a driving ban ranging from one to four years.

Most of these speeding violations were detected by fixed speed cameras as well as Pegasus, the DGT’s aerial radar system mounted on helicopters. Among the most serious cases, one driver was caught speeding at 238 km/h on the A-7 motorway, making illegal overtakes and ignoring road signs.

Another motorist was recorded driving at 206 km/h on the N-610, a road with a 90 km/h limit, after evading a routine checkpoint in Valladolid. A motorcyclist was also stopped for travelling at 185 km/h on a section of the A-7 where the limit is 80 km/h.

The DGT highlights that excessive speed was a factor in 21 per cent of fatal accidents in 2024. Driving at high speeds not only increases the risk of crashes but also worsens their severity. The agency urges drivers to obey speed limits to help save lives and improve road safety.

Love Bugs parade

IN 1938, the Volkswagen company came up with the idea of producing an affordable ‘people’s’ car which became known as the Beetle.

Since that time, it became a favourite around the world and was produced in huge numbers and different styles from then (with a move to military vehicles during the Second World War) until the last traditional Beetle was made in 1997.

Anxious to take advantage of the popularity of the Beetle, Volkswagen designed and produced an updated version known as the ‘New Beetle’ which was roomier and slightly sportier but it didn’t find favour with the new generation of drivers and was taken out of production in 2003.

Part of its popularity was rekindled by a series of Disney films with the original Herbie – The Love Bug (a sentient Beetle) being one of the highest grossing movies of 1969 which was soon followed by a further four films all of which continued to promote Herbie

to ardent film goers.

In 1965, the Belgian VW Club was created and now in its 60th year it has run its 16th Love Bugs Parade in the Jubel Park in Brussels where some 300 Beetles were attracted from across Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Luxem -

bourg.

The event was a huge success with many visitors enjoying and discovering the wide range of different versions of the Beetle from the traditional version, the Surf Van, split window versions and different types of military versions.

DGT sticker not ‘technically’ required

IT’S been nearly a decade since Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico), introduced its now-infamous environmental stickers, categorising vehicles based on their emissions - or rather, their registration date. And that’s where the trouble began.

Fast forward to today, and these stickers have become essential for driving in cities with Low Emission Zones (ZBE). In places like Madrid, failing to display the right sticker can mean a €200 fine - unless, of course, you’re driving a historic car, which gets a free pass.

Despite the chaos, the DGT has never made the sticker officially mandatory nationwide. Instead,

DGT car sticker shock: Why every motorist needs oneeven though it’s not ‘technically’ required!

it passed the buck to local councils, leaving them to decide whether to enforce it. And in cities like Madrid, they absolutely have.

So, is it really compulsory? Technically, nobut in practice, it might as well be. If you’re planning to drive in any major Spanish city, having the

right DGT sticker is the safest bet.

The good news? You can grab one for just €5 at tobacconists, post offices, or online. It’s a small price to pay to avoid a costly fine and a run-in with Spain’s ever-confusing traffic laws.

So, stick it or risk itthe choice is yours!

Love Bugs parade in Brussels.

Credit: Autoworld Facebook

New generation Subaru Forester retains its go-anywhere ability

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

SUBARU has revealed prices and specifications for its all-new Forester e-BOXER, marking the official UK launch of the latest generation of Forester. Back in 1997 the first-generation Subaru Forester was launched, arguably making it one of the first ‘crossover’ SUVs. Its rather subtle styling, compared to most large SUVs, won it many fans and it was, and remains, surprisingly capable off-road. It’s not merely a rutted track or field only vehicle.

The new and latest generation All-Wheel Drive Forester retains the Subaru’s renowned all-weather, go-anywhere ability with prices starting from €47,233/£38,995 for the Limited model, rising to €52,072/£42,995 for the range-topping Touring variant.

Subaru’s signature combination of Permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and e-BOXER hybrid powertrain has been retained and Subaru say the famed 2.0-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine features 24 technical improvements.

With 220mm of ground clearance and good approach and departure angles and a 1,870kg towing capacity it’s one of the most durable and practical estates. Despite its ride height the Forester

looks less SUV and more estate which will appeal to those who eschew the current trend for everything SUV.

Inside the Forester there is a new 11.6-inch full HD infotainment system that very sensibly retains physical buttons and switches for climate control and other key functions. The updated infotainment suite includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as enhanced navigation supporting both Apple Maps and what3words - ideal for tracking down remote locations. The interior is also equipped with both Type-C and Type-A charging ports, so electronics can be

easily topped up, even when in the wilderness.

Other practical touches include a generous boot capacity and an optional hands-free power tailgate. All-round direct vision has been optimised through carefully designed pillars and an extensive glass area, something on which the Forester was always ahead over more visionary claustrophobic rivals.

This is complemented by the new 360° Multi-View Monitor system, aspherical door mirrors, and LED cornering lamps.

The Limited trim model starts the and includes 18” Alloy Wheels, Illumina-

ted Ports & Wireless Charger, Memory Driver Seats, Electronically Adjustable & Heated Front Seats, Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror, Wireless Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™, 360 Degree Surround View Camera.

Moving on to the mid-range Field version from €48,977/£40,440 additional features over LIMITED trim include Privacy Glass, Heated Steering Wheel, Powered Gesture Tailgate and In-built Satellite Navigation. Heading the line-up is the Touring model that features larger alloy wheels, Heated Rear Seats, Power Sliding UV Glass Sunroof, Black Leather Interior Trim.

An important partnership

THE international football teams of Spain Walking are proud to announce JOMA (through its Official Distributor EMPRESA DEPORTIVA MAIO from Marbella) as the exclusive sponsor of its four teams for the next four years.

This is an important partnership agreement, not only for the national team, but for ALL the Spain Walking football teams.

Mark Coleman and Mark Kavanagh, directors of the national team, have said that:

“JOMA is the number 1 Spanish sports brand in the world and a world leader and we are extremely pleased to have secured this partnership. This is a historic sponsor-

ship and demonstrates the commitment of a major sports brand to support the growth of the sport of walking football throughout Spain.”

The website for the international Spain Walking football teams will be up and running from March. World Walking football teams will be able to order their team kits through a special link on the website. Any club ordering JOMA sports equipment or KIT will receive a 10 per cent discount.

Other tournament sponsors working with the national team include Desire Properties, tournament sponsor, J4K, official goalkeeper glove supplier, Torrevieja City Council and Torrevieja Sports City.

Formula 1 and LEGO

FORMULA ONE and the LEGO Group are set to enhance the fan experience this year with new interactive activities and a fresh range of LEGO F1 products.

Following a successful launch last year, the partnership will now bring immersive at-race experiences and exclusive merchandise to select Grand Prix events worldwide.

Starting March 1,

fans to recreate F1 moments in brick form. This will be followed by the launch of LEGO F1 Collectibles on May 1. These join the existing LEGO DUPLO and LEGO City collections, offering something for fans of all ages.

Beyond the products, LEGO will introduce dedicated LEGO Fan Zone Activations at select F1 races, giving attendees the chance to

Credit: Shutterstock, Krzysztof Dzidek

Real Madrid leads Europe in wages

REAL MADRID is the club with the highest wage bill in European football, spending €272 million per year, according to industry estimates.

At the top of their payroll is Kylian Mbappé, signed on free in the summer of 2024 from PSG. The French star’s annual salary reaches €31.25 million, excluding bonuses. Other important earners from the Real Madrid squad include David Alaba (€22.5 million) and Vinícius Júnior (€20.83 million).

Just behind Madrid is Bayern Munich, with a total wage budget of €264 million. The Bundesliga giants invest a big part of this sum in top players like the Englishman Harry Kane, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, and midfielder Joshua Kimmich, who lead their squad in salaries.

Despite an underwhelming season by Pep Guardiola’s team, Manchester City completes the podium with a €242 million salary outlay. Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Jack Grealish are the top

At last a precious win for Nerja!

earners at Etihad, according to Capology’s experts.

The next clubs on the list are Manchester United, Arsenal, PSG, and Chelsea, all exceeding €200 million in annual salaries. Barcelona, known for their financial difficulties in recent years, follows in eighth place (€192 million), while Liverpool and Inter Milan round out the top 10. Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning Bundesliga champions, ranks only 26th in wage spending. Despite operating on a €78 million salary budget, just over double Mbappé’s wages alone, the team coached by Xabi Alonso continues to perform excellently on the pitch.

clusive build challenges, photo opportunities, and hands-on experiences celebrating F1’s engineering excellence.

Fans attending races will have access to the LEGO Pit Shop, pop-up stores featuring the full F1 product range, including sets representing all 10 Formula 1 teams. Additionally, LEGO stores in Europe, the US, Canada, the Middle East, Africa, and China will host racing-themed activities and play experiences.

AWFL Over 50s

Nerja Utd. 3 v 1 Internacionales Mollina

Nerja took an early lead when Martin Tompsett pounced on a defensive error and scored in the bottom corner. However, Mollina took advantage of a lapse in concentration to equalise through a Steve Webster strike from a quickly taken free kick. Just before the break, Tony Deacon regained the hosts’ lead by powering home a penalty. Unfortunately for them, Mollina squandered the chance for parity in the second half by missing a penalty of their own. Nerja then capitalised with some resolute defending and Tompsett producing another stunning strike to give the home side their first three points of the season in a fully-deserved victory.

curately converted by Bailey. The visitors lost a player to a blue card but still managed to pull a goal back through another running offences penalty. However, an important win was sealed for Calahonda towards the end when Tommy McMillan managed to turn and smash the ball beyond the Marbella keeper.

• League Standings

Over 50s: The Calahonda v Marbella result keeps those two teams in second and third place respectively with Malaga WFC leading the pack.

For those unable to attend races, LEGOLAND Discovery Centres and LEGO Discovery Centres worldwide will introduce build challenges designed to educate children about F1’s technical aspects.Meanwhile, a new LEGO F1 game will launch on the LEGO website and LEGO Play App, allowing fans to engage with the sport digitally.

• Real Calahonda 3 v 2 Marbella Marbesula

This second v third club fixture proved to be an extremely exciting, physical affair! Despite Real dominating much of the first half possession, Marbella took the lead with a well-taken breakaway goal. The hosts went down to six players following a blue card, but, maintaining their dominance, equalised through a superb strike from Roman Pachkovskiy, the assist by Trevor Bailey. Real then went ahead through a running offences penalty, coolly and ac-

Over 60s: AC Benahavis comfortably head the rankings with Real Calahonda and Nerja Utd. fighting it out for second and third.

And there’s more……

Just because there were no 60s matches scheduled for this week didn’t mean that no competitive games were played. As is becoming an annual fixture, Malaga 60s and 65s visited the Victoria Stadium in Gibraltar to play two games each against the local club. These were played in the best of spirits with the Gibraltar teams coming out on top.

See you next week!

Kylian Mbappé comes out tops.