AS Christmas approaches, Palma de Mallorca is shining as the ultimate winter escape for northern Europeans - and demand is soaring. The Federación Empresarial Hotelera de Mallorca (FEHM) reports that hotel occupancy in Palma hit 50 per cent over the early December holiday weekend, with expectations to climb to 70 per cent at Christmas, and boutique hotels already irting with 90 per cent capacity on key dates. It’s not just overnight stays that are lling fast - festive lunches and dinners, including corporate Christmas meals, are booking up, bringing life and cheer back to the hotel scene after a quiet autumn.
For UK expatriates and other northern European travellers seeking milder weather, cultural charm and festive magic, Mallorca is proving the perfect antidote to winter gloom.
Investor’s paradise
A mechanism born during economic crisis.
THE Balearic Islands remain one of Spain’s top destinations for second homes, remote work, and property investment, attracting EU nationals - especially Germans - with their sunny climate and scenic landscapes.
Over the past decade, the islands saw a rise in golden visas for non-EU investors, which were phased out in April 2025. Between 2014 and 2024, 1,777 golden visas were granted, including 676 in the nal year, rising to 1,243 across all investment categories, according to the Permanent Immigration Observatory. Launched in 2013 to attract international investment, the programme ended due to housing concerns, though its impact
remains debated.
EU buyers still dominate the market, led by Germans, followed by the UK, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, France, Italy, and
Poland. Despite the visa closure, the Balearics continue to draw international buyers, underscoring their enduring appeal as a global property hotspot.
sighting
THE super yacht Sea Owl was recently seen in Mallorca’s waters, braving challenging weather. Owned by US billionaire Robert Mercer, the vessel draws attention not only for its striking owl-inspired design but also because of Mercer’s high-pro le political involvement, including backing the UK’s Vote Leave campaign and leading US Republican gures such as Donald Trump.
Sea Owl accommodates 12 guests and sails with a crew of 18, combining visual impact with comfort. Mercer’s in uence spans both sides of the Atlantic, from Brexit campaigning to US election funding, making the yacht a noteworthy presence for locals and expats in the Balearics.
Mallorca • No. 2110 • 11 - 17 Dec 2025
Iconic nativity is back
AFTER more than 10 years away, the iconic nativity scene of La Sang will once again take centre stage this Christmas, “after a decade of neglect,” said Llorenç Galmés, president of the Consell de Mallorca, during this morning’s media presentation of the restored ‘naixement’.
In the first stage of the recovery project, the main pieces of the display have been restored: the cave setting, the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, Baby Jesus, and the five Baroque angels.
“This government has made the restoration of this heritage a top priority, because we are not just talking about a work of art, but a cultural and spiritual symbol that represents generations of Mallorcans,” the president emphasised.
The initial phase of restoring Europe’s oldest Neapolitan nativi-
ty began in March this year. The total cost of the project is €400,000, with a planned execution period of 15 months.
The first restored images was unveiled to the public on December 10 in the Church of l’Anunciació, better known as La Sang, in Palma. During the event, a sacred music concert entitled Ninna Nanna. Spanish and Italian music of the 17th century for Advent and
Christmas was performed by Raquel Andueza and La Galanía.
The public will be able to visit the La Sang nativity throughout the Christmas season until January 6, Epiphany. After this date, it will be stored again to continue restoration work until the entire project is completed.
Maritime Museum tours
THE Museu Marítim de Mallorca in Palma will begin offering guided group tours from January 2026, following its reopening on October 3 this year after nearly two years of restoration. The tours are aimed at schools, social organisations, and other groups, offering expert-led exploration of the museum while general admission remains free.
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00 to 17.00, the museum presents two main exhibition routes.
Route 1 covers maritime heritage, traditional trades, seafaring gastronomy, environmental issues, and women’s roles at sea. Sections include Immersió, De mar enllà (underwater archaeology), Arribant a bon port (Mallorca’s historic merchant fleet), and Pesca i biodiversitat, which ends in an educational space.
Route 2 features the Sala de barques, displaying traditional Mallorcan boats, shipbuilding tools, and a restored pontoon, followed by temporary exhibitions such as Thálassa, focusing on Balearic
marine species by artist Irene Gayà. Guided tours are designed to deepen understanding of Mallorca’s maritime history and foster engagement, inclusivity, and education. By combining artefacts, historical narratives, and contemporary marine awareness, the museum positions itself as a cultural hub connecting residents and visitors to the island’s seafaring heritage. The initiative underlines a renewed commitment to immersive, educational experiences that celebrate Mallorca’s maritime identity and community learning.
Mallorca’s new ambulance fleet
MALLORCA has begun the phased rollout of a modernised ambulance eet, replacing 169 vehicles to strengthen emergency medical services. Coordinated by the Balearic Health Service (IB-Salut) through the 061 system, the deployment includes basic life support, advanced life support, and specialised
ambulances suitable for urban, rural, and coastal areas.
The renewal addresses ageing vehicles, improving reliability, response times, and patient safety. Upgraded medical and communication equipment enhances on-site assessment and care during transport, while redesigned interiors
and reinforced suspension systems improve paramedic working conditions and patient comfort. Sta have been trained to operate the new vehicles safely and e ciently, maintaining current operational protocols and sta ng levels. The programme is part of a wider Balearic initiative extending similar upgrades to Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, aiming for consistent emergency care across the islands. Environmental considerations are incorporated, with improved fuel e ciency and lower emissions. Authorities describe the investment as longterm, enhancing public safety and resilience. The upgraded eet is expected to deliver faster, safer, and more reliable emergency responses, bene ting residents and visitors alike. The phased approach ensures continuity of service, marking a signi cant step in modernising Mallorca’s healthcare infrastructure and strengthening regional emergency preparedness.
Guided tours are designed to deepen understanding of Mallorca’s maritime history.
The main pieces of the display have been restored.
Border rule clarity
What residents need
BRITONS living in Spain have faced confusion since the EU introduced its Entry and Exit System (EES) at Schengen borders. The key point is clear: UK nationals with a valid Spanish biometric TIE residence card are exempt from EES and should not use the new biometric kiosks or short-stay queues.
EES applies to third-country nationals visiting the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It replaces passport stamping with a digital record of entry and exit dates, photographs and fingerprints. Tourists and second-home owners must use EES, but residents must not. Anyone holding a residence permit or long-stay visa issued by a Schengen state is excluded, covering British Withdrawal Agreement residents and all other TIE holders in Spain.
Confusion arises because many long-term UK residents still rely on the older green residency certificate. While valid for some administrative purposes, it is no longer accepted as proof of residency at the border. Both the Spanish government and UK Embassy warn that border staff may treat green certificate holders as tourists, meaning their days could count under EES rules and may trigger an incorrect overstay alert.
The solution is clear: only the biometric TIE card provides recognised proof of residency. TIE holders should use the EU or residents’ queue, presenting passport and TIE together while bypassing EES entirely.
Read the full article at: https://euroweeklynews. com/2025/12/03/queues-scans-and-stamps-why-brits-with-atie-dont-have-to-play-the-ees-game/
Card payment reform
New reporting rules
FROM January 2026, Spain will introduce major changes to banking and tax reporting. All card payments received by self-employed workers and businesses will be reported to the tax authorities, regardless of amount.
Until now, only payments over €3,000 were re-
ported. Under the new rules, every transaction via card, mobile app, or online platform must be submitted monthly. Private individuals who are not self-employed are mostly unaffected unless annual card spending exceeds €25,000.
The government says the move reflects a digital economy where most pay ments are
electronic. Authorities aim to improve transparency, combat tax fraud, and ensure a full picture of income. Digital banks and foreign payment providers will also be included.
Self-employed expatriates must expect all payments to be reported. Keeping accurate invoices and receipts, separating personal and business finances, and declaring all income will be essential. Even payments via apps such as Bizum and Revolut will now be monitored, making proper record-keeping critical.
The reform ensures fairer competition but adds administrative pressure. Freelancers and micro-businesses will need to track every transaction, including side jobs, rentals, or online work. Failure to comply could result in fines or additional scrutiny.
Expatriates should consult a gestor or accountant and organise accounts before the new system begins. Planning ahead and keeping a clear paper trail will make the transition smoother and avoid surprises during tax season.
Offline card payments
SPAIN has set a goal of creating a system allowing card payments without an internet connection, proposed by the National Payments Committee in November. The move responds to vulnerabilities in current payment systems, which are frequently disrupted by blackouts, cyber-attacks and network failures.
The system, explained by radio host Alberto Herrera on COPE, is more secure than current arrangements. Herrera cited commercial flights, where cabin crew accept payments without knowing if cards have sufficient funds. Transactions are only processed once connections are restored, meaning some payments may fail.
The new system would embed a spending limit in the card chip, verified instantly by point-of-sale (TPV) terminals, eliminating reliance on external connections. TPVs could confirm the card’s authenticity, verify the PIN, and store transaction data for later processing when connectivity is restored.
Officials are also considering ‘emergency ATMs’ in key locations to operate during electricity or network failures. Implementation, currently scheduled for 2029, faces challenges including privacy, fraud risks and assigning liability.
The rollout requires changes to card chips, TPVs, and coordination among issuers, acquirers, processors and regulators, defining activation scenarios, priority sectors and responsibilities. If successful, the system could reduce dependence on cash, provide more resilient payments and allow transactions to continue even during network disruptions.
Retirement age rises
SPAIN’S pension system will undergo major changes in 2026, marking the final step in a long-running transition towards raising the standard retirement age to 67. From January 1, 2026, the ordinary retirement age will be set at 66 years and 10 months, although workers with at least 38 years and three months of contributions will still be able to retire at 65 without penalty. Alongside this, a new phased ‘dual’ system for calculating pensions will begin, gradually expanding the career period used to determine benefits.
The reforms also include financial adjustments. The Mecanismo de Equidad Inter-generacional surcharge will rise to 0.9 per cent, split between employers and workers, with further increases planned. Maximum contribution bases will be raised in line with inflation, and minimum pensions will be updated above average price rises to protect against poverty. A solidarity surcharge on higher salaries will also continue to grow.
These measures aim to improve long-term sustainability while limiting immediate shocks for long-serving workers. The changes affect both Spanish nationals and expatriates contributing to the system. Analysts advise those nearing retirement to review contribution records and consider voluntary options. Policymakers view 2026 as a technical turning point that will shape Spain’s pension landscape for decades.
Queues build at Spanish passport control as the new EU border checks roll out.
Spain to track card payments.
MEL SA FONT honey from Santa María del Camí, Mallorca, has been awarded Best Honey of Spain 2025 at the 11th Mieladictos competition, surpassing more than 140 national entries. The monofloral honey, sourced from carob trees, impressed judges with its dark colour, intense aroma, and balanced bittersweet flavour.
Its producer, Tomeu Fullana Ferrer, transitioned from a career as a blacksmith to artisanal apiculture, embracing organic and sustainable practices. Seasonal harvesting ensures the honey preserves the natural characteristics of carob blossoms, highlighting a meticulous approach
Spain’s best honey
to quality and environmental stewardship. The award underscores the value of
small-scale, traditional production in preserving biodiversity, supporting the rural economy, and reinforcing Mallorca’s agricultural identity. Local markets, agri-tourism, and direct sales benefit from the honey’s recognition, demonstrating the economic and cultural significance of artisanal products.
The accolade places Santa María del Camí on Spain’s gastronomic map, celebrating the synergy
Xmas train returns
between human craft and natural resources. For Fullana and the community, it validates a sustainable, traditional way of life while promoting the island’s unique flora.
Mel Sa Font’s success exemplifies how careful, small-scale production can achieve national acclaim, reinforcing the relevance of artisanal, environmentally conscious practices in contemporary Spanish agriculture.
PALMA’S Christmas Train is once again bringing festive cheer to the city as part of the ‘Palma, tot un centre de diversió’ campaign, organised by AFEDECO and PIMECO with support from the city council.
Running until January 11, the initiative includes a new Christmas market in sa Feixina, ice-skating rinks and more than 40 attractions. The train operates from 5pm to 9pm with departures every 20 to 25 minutes on December 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 23, 27 and 28, and January 2, 3 and 4. Charity routes for older residents will take place on December 12, 19, 20 and 27. Two circuits showcase either the historic centre or the Eixample under festive lights, highlighting key commercial streets.
Tickets are distributed exclusively by participating local shops, which use them to reward customers and encourage Christmas shopping, and they also grant access to various children’s attractions across the city.
Photo credit: Mehmet Cetin/Shutterstock
Its producer, Tomeu Fullana Ferrer, transitioned from a career as a blacksmith to artisanal apiculture.
Running until January 11, 2026.
Historic tower suffers
A MAJOR collapse has severely affected the medieval tower next to the Baluard de Sant Pere in Palma on Wednesday December 10.
ARCA has reported that the 14th-century tower is built on an earlier Islamic-era structure, later incorporated into the closure of the Baluard de Sant Pere, and is believed to have formed part of the arms barracks of the historic Portopí Gate.
“This is not a superficial collapse, as the photographs show, but a significant structural failure,” the heritage group warned. They expressed frustration, noting that for years they have demanded the restoration of this historic site from both the Consell Insular and Palma City Council, but have only received empty promises. “The inaction in protecting and maintaining heritage has serious consequences,” ARCA added.
The collapse involved a large section of the eastern façade wall, mostly made of rammed earth covered
with mortar. ARCA stressed urgent intervention is needed by restoration professionals to stabilise the structure and prevent further damage. They also highlighted the importance of archaeologically studying the fallen materials, as fragments of ceramics and other elements could yield valuable historical insights.
ARCA has repeatedly pointed out visible dete-
rioration, including loss of mortar, affecting the tower’s integrity, and called for a serious restoration project.
Architect Joana Roca has also demanded its repair during Historic Centre meetings. The group is urging the authorities to contain further collapses, conserve the remains, and launch an urgent, comprehensive restoration led by professionals.
Protesters target bullfight
ON Sunday December 7, animal rights activists staged a dramatic protest outside Muro’s La Monumental arena, calling for an end to bullfighting on the island. The coalition, which included PETA, the Franz Weber Foundation, Mallorca Against Bullfighting, Progreso en Verde and Satya Animal, donned bull masks and held a banner declaring: ‘Mallorca Without Torture: Ban Bullfighting’.
“Bulls want only to be left in peace, yet they’re subjected to relentless torment in the bullring, where they’re terrorised, mutilated, and killed in front of jeering crowds,” said PETA Europe President Mimi Bekhechi.
Opposition to bullfighting has steadily increased. A recent poll by Fundación BBVA found that eight in 10 Spaniards
oppose the use of animals as entertainment. Although the Balearic Islands banned bullfighting in 2017, the decision was later overturned by Spain’s Constitutional Court. Nevertheless, over 80 per cent of Mallorca residents still reject the practice.
Earlier this year, Spanish animal protection groups submitted more than 715,000 signatures to the Electoral Commission as part of the ‘No Es Mi Cultura’ initiative, aiming to repeal the 2013 law designating bullfighting as ‘cultural heritage’. The proposal was blocked by Congress but became the most-signed citizens’ legislative initiative in a decade. PETA continues to advocate that animals should not be used for entertainment.
Built on centuries-old foundations.
PETA advocates that animals should not be used for entertainment.
WHEN I moved to Spain, I expected sunshine and simplicity. I did not expect a lesson in practicality. Recently, I found myself in a tiny cobbler’s shop, boots in hand, confronting the reality of my own make-do and mend era.
In the UK, worn boots might languish at the bottom of a wardrobe. Here, minimalism makes repair essential. The shop was filled with shoes, boots, bags and hats, all waiting to be mended. It felt nostalgic, reminiscent of old-fashioned towns where local trades thrived.
My daughter watched the cobbler with fascination, asking questions about
Make-do and mend
each repair. It was a reminder of the value of teaching children to appreciate, reuse and care for what they own.
Spain’s culture contrasts sharply with the throwaway habits common in the UK. Items are fixed, reused, and passed
on rather than discarded. Charity shops are rare, and fast fashion less prevalent, at least in small towns. There is pride in prolonging an object’s life, reflecting a quieter, more mindful approach to consumption. This mindset fits nicely with the Spanish emphasis on experiences over things. A repaired pair of boots might last a season, while a shared coffee at a local café becomes a cherished memory. Embracing small repairs at home, visiting local repair shops, and passing items to neighbours can all be part of this lifestyle.
Charity shops in Spain
CHARITY shops are a familiar part of life in the UK, where donated clothes, books, and household goods are sold to raise money for nonprofits. Every purchase supports a charitable cause while giving items a second life. In Spain, however, charity shops remain uncommon. Most are run by British or international expatriates who recreate the UK-style model in tourist areas or communities with large foreign populations. These shops introduce locals to a different philanthropic approach, but the concept has not yet become mainstream across Spain.
The limited number of charity shops, around 800 nationwide compared with over 10,000 in the UK and Ireland - reflects several barriers. Opening a shop in Spain requires navigating complex bureaucracy, including registration, tax obligations, and commercial
permits. Smaller charities often lack the resources or guidance to manage these processes. Funding is another challenge: unlike in the UK, Spanish charities rely heavily on irregular donations, making it difficult to sustain a shop financially. Cultural attitudes also play a role, as many people still prefer buying new items over second-hand goods.
Despite these obstacles, charity shops offer clear benefits. They provide steady income for charitable projects, support sustainability by reducing waste, and create valuable volunteering opportunities. Expanding the model would offer Spanish communities affordable goods, stronger local engagement, and a more accessible culture of giving.
Driving home for Christmas
SPAIN is entering one of its busiest travel periods of the year, and anyone heading back to the UK for Christmas should prepare for crowds on the roads and at the airports.
The DGT recorded more than 20 million long-distance journeys last Christmas, and Aena airports processed over 309 million passengers in the same year. The combination means pressure across the entire transport network from mid-December through to Three Kings.
The DGT’s Operación Especial Navidad, running from December 20 to January 6, consistently produces the same pattern: heavy traffic in the days just before Christmas, again before New Year, and once more on the evening of January 5 as families return home for the Three Kings holiday.
The busiest hours usually fall between early evening and mid-night, especially on December 22-23 and December 29. Saturday mornings are also a perennial pinch point.
For those seeking quieter moments, early mornings tend to be the safest bet, as do Christmas Day and December 26, when most long-distance travel pauses.
The DGT continues to warn about accident risks on major single-carriageway routes. Stretches of the Madrid–Valencia corridor, the AP-7 and N-340 along the Mediterranean, and coastal N-roads on the Costa del Sol all see regular congestion and incident reports.
Travelling north towards Aragon often involves navigating snow alerts and slow-moving traffic on the Monrepós pass.
Urban gridlock is another seasonal challenge. Malaga, for instance, has added thousands of extra hours of traffic control to cope with the influx of visitors to its Christmas light displays.
Anyone driving into city centres before catching a flight should factor in this additional delay.
Airports face a similar surge. UK flights from Spain rank among Europe’s busiest in the days before Christmas and again around New Year. This means longer queues at security, slower passport checks and crowded departure halls.
A recent dispute at Madrid-Barajas led to hourlong delays, and although the situation has improved, the airport still advises arriving well ahead of time.
Madrid and Barcelona usually need a full three to four hours before departure, particularly for early morning flights. Malaga, Alicante and Palma are slightly less intense, though travellers still report sudden spikes in security queues.
In the Canary Islands, weather disruptions can add another layer of uncertainty.
From worn-out to wonderful: Spanish style.
Credit: PixabayJillWellington
Charity shops are common in the UK and offer clear benefits.
Photo credit: DogStarImages/Shutterstock
Travelling from Malaga airport.
Rooftop New Year bash
PALMA is set to welcome 2026 in spectacular style with SkyNudos’ exclusive New Year’s Eve event. Perched atop one of the city’s most iconic rooftops, the venue promises breathtaking skyline views and a night of unforgettable celebrations.
Guests will enjoy private access to the terrace, taking in panoramic sights of Palma Marina as fireworks light up the sky at midnight.
Traditional Spanish customs, including the midnight grapes, will add a festive touch, while party bags and two long drinks per guest ensure the evening starts in style.
Music lovers can look forward to a DJ performance that will keep the energy high, creating premium vibes throughout the night.
Dress codes encourage chic, stylish attire, making it the perfect occasion to toast the New Year in elegance.
SkyNudos’ event combines the charm of Palma’s cityscape with an atmosphere that is both intimate and electric, offering locals and visitors alike a unique way to ring in 2026. With limited spots avai-
lable, organisers are urging early booking to secure a place at this rooftop celebration. Those planning to mark the New Year above the city should act quickly to guarantee entry to what promises to be one of the most talked-about parties in Palma this festive season.
Tickets at www.skynudos.com
MALLORCA
Son Vida: premium and exceptional
RESTAURANT SON VIDA offers one of Palma’s most appealing dining experiences, combining premium tapas, refined flavours and a privileged location overlooking the 18th hole of Golf Son Vida. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery, the restaurant provides a calm and elegant setting that perfectly complements its dedication to high-quality local produce.
The menu showcases a rich variety of tapas prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from nearby producers, reflecting a strong commitment to Mallorcan tradition.
Signature dishes include the Bravísssimas potatoes from Sa Pobla, a bold interpretation of a classic with a house-made spicy sauce, and home-grown tomatoes paired with Cantabrian tuna belly and roasted garlic vinaigrette. The Anda-
lucian-style fried calamari with home-made alioli and the crispy chicken wings with spicy barbecue and tartare sauces are also firm favourites among regular guests.
A distinguishing feature of Restaurant Son Vida is its exceptional selection of gourmet conservas, sourced from producers who prioritise sustainable fishing and seasonal catches. Options such as sardines, mussels, baby squid and
anchovies are served simply with crisps, offering an elegant nod to traditional Spanish flavours.
Seasonal dishes, including tagliatelle with sautéed prawns, confit pork rostit and grilled octopus with smoked paprika, broaden the culinary experience, while homemade desserts and a wine list featuring sustainable Mallorcan labels complete the offering.
Camí de Son Vida, 38 E07013 Palma
Puerto Portals Xmas market
FOR British expats seeking a bit of festive cheer this winter, the Puerto Portals Christmas Market offers a wonderfully seasonal outing. From December 12 to January 6, this stylish marina in Portals Nous, Mallorca, will host over 40 wooden stalls decked with lights and fir trees - perfect for picking up gifts, decorations, wooden toys or artisanal trinkets. Alongside shopping, the market combines a rich selection of gastronomic treats with a lively programme of events for all ages. Visitors can enjoy an ice-skating rink, live music, children’s workshops, a play-area, and even a fes-
tive Playmobil exhibition - making it ideal if you’re relocating with little ones or just love a cheerful family atmosphere.
The market runs daily from noon to 21.00, and on Fridays, Saturdays, Christmas Day and January 6 until 22.00, giving you plenty of time to wander by yacht-lit quays, sip something warm and soak up the Algarve-meets-Europe charm.
For expatriates missing a traditional UK Christmas vibe, the market’s cosy charm and festive activities offer a warm, welcoming taste of home - with Mediterranean sunshine as a bonus.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Qida appointment
QIDA has named Jordi Tusell its new Director of the Public Sector after two decades in leadership posts. He previously served as Managing Director for Spain at Falck and spent 20 years at ISS Facility Services. Tusell holds business qualifications from Esade and IESE.
Crypto property
THE UK has passed the Property (Digital Assets etc) Act 2025, formally recognising crypto such as bitcoin and stablecoins as a new third category of property. Industry body CryptoUK says this gives digital assets a ‘clearer legal footing’ for ownership and criminal cases.
HL appointment
HARGREAVES LANSDOWN has appointed Vanguard’s Doug Abbott as chief product officer, overseeing its £11bn HL Fund Management range and leading third-party partnerships. Abbott, formerly in senior roles at Schroders before joining Vanguard in 2024, will be reporting to CEO Richard Flint.
Spanish services
SPAIN’S services sector kept growing in November but at a slightly slower pace, the HCOB PMI showed. The index dipped to 55.6 from 56.6, still signalling solid growth for a 27th month. Domestic demand stayed strong, though international sales fell.
Dakhla investment
A CANARY ISLANDS business delegation visited Dakhla in the Moroccan Sahara to explore investment opportunities, particularly in port, maritime, and logistics sectors. The group met regional authorities and toured the Dakhla Atlantic port project, which FEDEPORT said offers major strategic opportunities.
STAT OF WEEK
UK 0% tariff
THE US will exempt UK-made pharmaceuticals, ingredients and medical technology from new tariffs, making Britain the only country in the world to secure a zero per cent rate on pharmaceutical exports to America.
The agreement, part of the UK–US Economic Prosperity Deal, protects more than £5 billion in annual UK medicine exports and aims to strengthen Britain’s position as a leading life-sciences hub.
The government says
7.4%
the deal will su pport thousands of skilled jobs and reinfor ce confidence among global firms. Companies including Moderna, Bristol Myers Squibb and BioNTech have recently committed major new investments in the UK.
As part of the package, the UK will invest around 25 per cent more in innovative, safe and effective treatments - the first significant increase in more than two decades. The reforms will allow
UK phone networks
FOUR of the UK’s biggest mobile networks – O2, Vodafone, EE, and Three – are facing a £1.1 billion class action lawsuit over claims they overcharged millions of customers on mobile phone contracts.
The case, certified by the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), alleges that customers on bundled handset-and-airtime deals continued paying for phones they had already repaid, rather than being moved to cheaper SIM-only tariffs. The operators deny wrongdoing, and the Tribunal has not yet ruled on liability.
The claim covers an estimated 10.9 million contracts taken out between October 1, 2015, and March 31, 2025, with potential compensation ‘up to around £104 per contract’ if the case succeeds.
M&S live event
MARKS & SPENCER has begun a five-day festive Live Shopping event as it taps into surging demand for entertainment-led e-commerce. Streaming via Facebook and Instagram, the series features UK influencers offering advice across fashion, beauty, gifting and hosting. M&S research shows 40 per cent of shoppers plan to spend the same as last year, prompting curated offers for all price points. Daily themed broadcasts aim to make Christmas purchasing ‘stress-free’ while reflecting consumers’ shift toward social-first shopping experiences.
The total expenditure of international tourists visiting Spain in October increased by 7.4 per cent and reached €12,785 million.
lue medicines that might previously have been declined on cost-effectiveness grounds, including breakthrough cancer therapies and treatments for rare diseases.
The confirmed tariff exemption applies for at least three years and covers:
• Finished UK pharmaceuticals
• Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
• UK-origin medical technologies
While the deal focuses on UK access, it has wider implications for Ireland, which remains subject to US tariffs of up to 15 per cent on EU-manufactured medicines. Ireland is one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical exporters, with around 80 per cent of its US-bound goods made up of medicines.
A CAT judgment published on November 14, 2025, confirmed that the claim could proceed on an opt-out basis, meaning eligible UK customers are automatically included unless they choose to opt out.
Gamesa Electric acquired
ABB has completed its acquisition of Gamesa Electric’s power electronics business from Siemens Gamesa, strengthening its position in high-power renewable energy conversion. The deal, first announced in December 2024, includes wind converters, BESS systems and utility-scale solar inverters, alongside around 400 employees and two factories in Madrid and Valencia. Financial terms were not disclosed. ABB confirmed that Gamesa Electric generated approximately €145 million in revenue in the year to September 30, 2025. The Swiss group has also signed a supply and services agreement with Siemens Gamesa as it expands its global footprint in clean-energy technologies.
THE OECD expects the UK to be the third-fastest growing G7 economy in 2026, forecasting GDP growth of 1.2 per cent. In its latest report, the Paris-based organisation warned Chancellor Rachel Reeves that tight public spending and higher taxes could restrain consumer demand. The UK is projected to outperform France, Germany, and Italy, but lag behind the US, forecast to grow 1.7 per cent. The OECD said fiscal constraints and weak household confidence remain key challenges as the government seeks to sustain economic momentum next year.
ZIPCAR is consulting on shutting its UK operations by year-end, telling customers it has suspended all new bookings beyond December 31, 2025. The US-based car-sharing firm, which has over 650,000 UK members and more than 3,000 vehicles, said employees have entered formal consultation. Subscription holders will receive pro-rated refunds, and those with 2026 bookings will be contacted. No reason for the proposed closure was given, despite recent expansion.
BIOMETHANE developer Cycle0 has commissioned two new plants in Manlleu (Barcelona) and Artajona (Navarra), bringing its Spanish operational portfolio to seven sites. Each facility converts cattle waste into up to 120 Nm3/h of biomethane, using upgrading technology from FNX, a Cycle0 subsidiary. The renewable gas will be injected into the network via a virtual pipeline. Cycle0 said the projects support local farmers and advance Spain’s Biogas Roadmap.
ZARA has reopened its fully redesigned Diagonal Avenue store in Barcelona, one of its most luxurious spaces and the first created by Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen. Inditex president Marta Ortega attended the launch, part of the brand’s accelerated repositioning strategy. The premium-focused concept reflects Zara’s global shift toward higher-value collections. Zara and Zara Home contribute 72 per cent of Inditex revenue (€27.7 billion in 2024).
BP 462,05 466,20 460,85 1,7M British American Tobacco 4.343,0 4.343,0 4.282,0 240,24K BT Group 176,60 177,75 176,05 573,09K
2.154,0 2.166,0 2.142,0 60,02K
170,03 170,95 169,70 684,42K
3.710,0 3.674,0 33,53K
2.349,00 2.355,02 2.324,00 140,83K
Cushman & Wakefield
CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD has appointed Álvaro Alonso as managing partner for its residential and corporate finance practice in Spain. He joins from EY, where he led M&A services in the financial sector, following a long career at Colliers International in senior corporate finance roles.
BOE announcement
BANK OF ENGLAND’S Andrew Bailey warned financial risks increased in 2025 due to geopolitics and stretched asset prices, especially in AI-related markets. Even so, stress tests show UK banks remain resilient, with capital requirements lowered to around 13 per cent.
Tesla sales slip
TESLA’S new car sales in Spain dipped in November even as the wider market for electrified vehicles (EVs) doubled, according to fresh registration data from Spain’s automotive industry.
Figures published on December 1, show that Tesla registered 1,523 new cars in Spain last month, an 8.75 per cent fall compared with November 2024, industry association ANFAC confirmed. Over the first 11 months of 2025, Tesla’s Spanish sales were still up 5.56 per cent year on year.
Total registrations of
electrified vehicles – fully electric (BEV) and plug-in
Rioja winery restructures
BODEGAS SONSIERRA, Rioja’s second-largest bottling cooperative, will convert into a Limited Liability Company after 87 per cent of members approved the change, aiming to become “more agile and competitive across global markets,” general manager Luis Del Águila Rodríguez said. Founded in 1961, the group became the first Rioja cooperative to market bottled wine and
is known for incentivising growers to preserve old vines by paying double for grapes from these parcels. Members will remain shareholders, though the board will be dissolved. Del Águila said the shift removes slow decision-making requirements and resolves challenges linked to returning capital when members retire, reflecting a broader national decline in cooperatives.
hybrid (PHEV) models –surged in November. ANFAC reported 23,367 electrified vehicles registered in the month, up 103.8 per cent compared with November 2024 and representing 20.77 per cent of the overall market across all vehicle types, according to the association’s monthly bulletin (ANFAC).
For passenger cars alone, electrified turismos reached 21,315 registrations last month and 22.65 per cent of that segment - essentially twice their share a year earlier.
Spain’s new-car market grew 12.9 per cent in November to 94,124 registrations, bringing 2025’s yearto-date total to 1,045,638 vehicles, up 14.7 per cent on the same period of 2024. Even so, sales remain 9.3 per cent below 2019 levels, according to figures compiled by ANFAC alongside dealer associations Faconauto and Ganvam.
Saab systems
SAAB has confirmed the Spanish Army’s first order for its Individual Duel Simulation systems under a new framework agreement worth up to €34 million. The package includes GAMER live training equipment and soldier systems, to be delivered with local partner Tecnobit and deployed across multiple regiments in Spain.
IESE leads Spain
IESE is Spain’s top performer in the Financial Times 2025 European Business School Rankings, placing fifth overall. Esade and IE Business School also score strongly - 11th and 21st. The UK sees standout results for London Business School (third) and Oxford Saïd (14th). Rankings span 100 institutions.
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO.
AI is getting to me
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
WOW, ‘Leapy’s law’ experienced a knockback recently, but only just. Apparently, the Airbus A320 has been affected by a blip in the computer, causing some to vertically descend at an alarming rate. Some 6,000 aircraft were involved but, surprise surprise, not the one the ol’ Leaper had entrenched on.
Normally it was more likely I would have been a passenger on the only one affected! Thankful for small mercies. So here I am back in the ol’ country again. Whatever else has changed it certainly hasn’t been the weather. Dull and drizzly at the mo. Hopefully it will clear, because tomorrow I’m invited to emulate our beloved Santa and go up and down a chimney in Battersea power station. Hope my sack of gifts doesn’t get stuck half way!
The route we are taking is quite a surprise. Apparently, you can now call an Uber on the Thames.
Not one with four wheels of course but they now have passenger craft in the form of a boat. Let’s hope the skipper doesn’t want to discuss politics! Another treat in store is a bit of jazz in the Troubadour. A wonderful old venue which has been operating for some 70 years. Apparently (performing under the pseudonym Blind Boy Grunt) Bob Dylan would take the occasional set in the basement. Worked it myself many moons ago! So, looking forward to that.
Although my regular perusers will know how much I am in opposition to graffiti, the only artist I truly admire is Banksy. This excellent exponent of art and free speech has an exhibition of 250 works on view, which we will also be experiencing. So, lots to look forward to. I see the Christmas lights are now up. Will be in the West End enjoying those at some stage. Have already observed Putney High Street. Rather a sparse and somewhat gloomy exhibition there. Probably trying to save money. I bet the West End isn’t in the same category.
Not that I truly enjoy plugging myself, I delighted to make an exception and announce my two upcoming gigs on the mainland. On December 17 I shall be attempting a warble in Torrevieja, with one performance in the afternoon and one in the evening. I understand tickets are going well, but it would be a pleasure to see any of the ol’ boys’ readers could they make it.
Couldn’t help but finish on a somewhat uneasy note this week. It’s all the controversy around AI that’s getting to me. Do you realise that one day all entertainers, including newscasters and journalists will be out of a job? AI can replace everyone! It really is a bit disquieting. It can even arrange for you to converse coherently with departed relatives. Basically, one day in the not too distant future, we will not be able to completely believe in anything or anyone? (Rachael Reeves comes to mind!)
Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com
Spanish Memory Law
A FLOOD of applications for Spanish nationality is underway.
Descendants of exiles and emigrants are forced to queue outside Spanish consulates.
Since 2022, the Memory Law has opened the door to children or grandchildren of Spanish exiles - many from Latin America - to reclaim citizenship.
By late 2025, more than 2.3 million people have sought to bene t: over one million applications submitted, plus 1.3 million still waiting for consular appointments. Around 237,000 new nationalities had been granted by September.
Argentina alone accounts for more than 40 per cent of the demand. Cuba, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Venezuela follow behind, re ecting decades of Spanish migration across continents.
For many applicants, this is more than paperwork: it is a second chance - a symbolic reconnection with origin, a legal recognition of history, identity and belonging, often across generations.
Yet the surge has overloaded Spain’s consular network of 178 o ces worldwide. Even after the October 2025 deadline, countless applicants remain in limbo, facing potentially long waits before their paperwork is fully processed. Some could wait years - or even lose the chance to see the resolution.
The Memory Law wave is more than a bureaucratic moment; it is a global expression of identity - of history reclaimed, roots acknowledged and citizenship restored. Credit:
TOPTrending
Ballerina
JUMP back into the world of John Wick with this newest addition to the franchise, Ballerina, now streaming on Amazon Prime. Ana de Armas stars as Eve, a trained assassin who goes rogue, taking on an army of merciless killers to avenge her father.
While the action scenes were shot to brutal perfection, not incorporating the character’s ballet background into her ghting
style felt like a missed opportunity to establish this lm as a unique endeavour. Gory deaths, spectacular cinematography and a cameo from franchise legends make this a must-watch.
The Beast In Me
CLAIRE DANES’ newest psychological thriller, The Beast in Me, is an astonishing triumph. Danes plays Aggie, a writer traumatised by the death of her young son, whose killer lives just a couple streets over. When Nile Jarvis, a multimillionaire once suspected of murdering his wife, moves into the neighbourhood, his and Aggie’s antagonistic but compelling connection is instantaneous.
The eight-episode Netflix series is gripping, the tense chemistry of Aggie and Nile in beautifully written scenes immerses you completely. Fans of murder-mysteries and true crime will not be left disappointed.
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
By song’s end, sleep claimed me… and most of the cities.
Chocolates withdrawn
I like the motion in my feet… maybe it’s because I’m from California, where the San Andreas Fault shakes your coffee every other morning - you don’t even need a stirrer! - so when I stepped off the QM2 in Brooklyn, I missed that sway. Even standing still after a cruise, you keep feeling that subtle motion - the kind you make listening to your favourite tunes. Did you hear about last December 5? We had a 4.1 tremor on the Costa del Sol! Real, not just a cat leaping on your bed or our neighbour bungee-jumping from the lamp.
The first leg was done. From Malaga to California, the experiment was underway. Now, the next adventure started at Penn Station, NYC - from serene sea to chaotic city in one ticket. The crowds, announcements, rolling luggage - it’s a wonder anyone gets anywhere.
Ah, the Big Apple… coined by racetrack gamblers in the 1920s, later jazz musicians’ badge of honour: “There are many apples on the tree, but only one Big Apple.” If you could make it here, you could make it anywhere.
Next stop: Chicago. Nineteen, 20 hours on the train, landscapes sliding past like a living movie. Naturally, I made a soundtrack:
“Albany waves, Syracuse in snow, Buffalo wings and Chicago winds blow!”
“Rolling past Albany, snow in Syracuse,
Union Station is a dream - BeauxArts vaulted ceilings, enormous columns, golden-age grandeur. I felt like a gangster movie extra, minus the danger.
A brisk walk outside nearly claimed my hat and wig, courtesy of Chicago’s gusts. My scarf even tried to escape.
Then, the Sears Tower (Willis Tower) - 110 floors! Could you imagine leaving your office up there and realising you forgot your keys… and the elevators aren’t working? I’d rather quit my job! I braved The Ledge on the 103rd floor, 4.3 feet of glass over the city, 1,353 feet below!
Hesitation quickly gave way to selfies. Nothing says “I’m braver than my fear of heights” like dangling over a skyscraper. And yet… I still don’t like flying. Give me a train, the scenery rolling by, the gentle sway of the tracks, and the rhythm in my feet.
NYC - Chicago is long - 19 to 20 hours. I saved a Roomette for the longer haul: Chicago - Los Angeles, which I’ll share in my next column - crossing the Southwest, countless states, and legendary Route 66. Tumbleweeds, diners with neon so bright I’ll need sunglasses, and gas stations that look designed by aliens. Maybe a cowboy in flip-flops.
For now, I’ll savour city lights fading, the wind, the tracks… and the rhythm in my feet.
And the buffet… Vegas, you are known for epic ones - here I come! I fully intend to eat like a tourist who just won the lottery… probably nap on the slot machines afterward.
SPAIN’S festive season has barely begun and a common Christmas tradition has already sparked a new food-safety alert. As families start the countdown to Christmas Eve with chocolate-filled advent calendars, the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (Aesan) issued an urgent warning on Thursday December 4 about a product mainly aimed at children.
Aesan reports that an advent calendar on sale contains several allergenic ingredients not listed in Spanish, creating a serious risk for anyone with allergies or intolerances. This lack of mandatory information violates food-labelling rules and may leave consumers unaware of ingredients that could harm their health. The undeclared allergens include milk, soya, hazelnuts, other nuts, egg, wheat and gluten, meaning families cannot ve-
rify whether the chocolate is safe.
The alert concerns the Milka Pop-Up 3D advent calendar, the version featuring a small three-dimensional Christmas tree, marketed by Mondelez International. The affected lot is CWS1252831 with a best-before date of March 31, 2026. The product has been distributed in several regions, including Andalucia, Aragon, Catalonia, the Valencian Community, Galicia, Murcia and the Basque Country. Through the Sciri rapid-information system, regional authorities are ensuring its withdrawal from sale. Anyone allergic to the listed ingredients should not consume the product. For all others, the calendar remains safe, as the issue concerns labelling only. Mondelez states that the recipe and quality are unaffected and that only this specific lot is impacted.
Spain’s saintly secret revealed!
the town in 997 except, miraculously, the tomb. The current cathedral rose in 1078 under Alfonso VI. Its grand Romanesque body and Baroque ‘face’ (added 1738-50) are crowned by Maestro Mateo’s Pórtico de la Gloria: a dramatic Last Judgement in stone.
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, situated where the Sar and Sarela rivers shake hands in north-west Spain, has been charming the devout and the curious since 813. That’s when a tomb near Padrón was ‘divinely revealed’ to contain the remains of St James the Apostle. Martyred in Jerusalem around 44 CE, his bones were taken to Spain, where, according to legend, he’d formerly evangelised.
With Christian Spain feeling a bit squeezed by Moorish neighbours, the relics sparked national enthusiasm.
King Alfonso II built a modest church on the spot. Alfonso III (do keep up!) thought bigger. Pilgrims flooded in, and Santiago soon joined Jerusalem and Rome as Christianity’s top three pilgrimage centres.
Almanzor’s Moorish forces flattened
Nearby, the Royal Hospital (now a posh hotel) once welcomed weary pilgrims. The town boasts 16th-century colleges, a 10th-century monastery (still monastic!), cobbled rúas and museums ranging from Galician ethnography to edgy modern art.
Santiago is spiritual, historical and, as for the Camino de Santiago, utterly walkable. So, put on your walking shoes and get exploring. Just follow the scallop shells - and mind your knees! Santiago de Compostela’s past is as rich as its treasures - a must-see!
Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.no ra-johnson.net) all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
FROM Malaga to CaliforniaNo Planes
PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA
Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Consumers should check lot number CWS1252831 .
Credit: AESAN
IN a place as international as Mallorca, life can change quickly. A family holiday can be interrupted by a child’s fever. An older relative may need extra support after a fall. New parents might be craving a few hours of rest, or practical guidance in those intense first days at home. And for many residents, the goal is simple: to stay independent, safe and comfortable in familiar surroundings for as long as possible.
That’s where Angels Nursing and Babysitting Agency has built its reputation - offering a flexible, responsive service that can be adapted to the individual, whether you’re a longterm resident or simply visiting the island. Based in the Balearics, the agency provides qualified, experienced nurses, midwives, carers and babysitters, with care packages designed around what clients actually need, not a one-size-fits-all template.
A personalised approach, not a ‘standard package’
The hallmark of good community care is listening first, then acting. Angels positions itself as a service that starts with your situation - your health, your family routines, your home environment and your preferences - and then builds support around it. That might mean short-term help after surgery, regular visits for longer-term conditions, or a temporary boost for a family juggling work, school and caregiving.
than an address - it’s independence, routine, dignity and control. Community-based nursing and home support can help bridge the gap between hospital treatment and full recovery, or provide ongoing help that allows someone to remain at home safely.
The agency describes its team as kind, trustworthy and professional, offering community nursing alongside childcare and babysitting services, tailored to individual requirements. In practice, that breadth matters: the same organisation can support a household across generations, from newborn care to elderly assistance, which is often exactly what families need when they are far from their usual support networks.
Nursing and home support, delivered where it matters: at home
For many people, home is more
Angels highlights one-to-one nursing and care within the local community, built on years of experience working in Mallorca. The agency’s founder, Sally Luxmoore, is listed as a qualified nurse registered in both the UK and Spain, with a background in specialist care in the Mallorcan community since 1990.
That kind of continuity can make a difference in real-world situations: coordinating care when language barriers exist, helping families understand what support is available, and providing reassurance when someone is vulnerable, tired, or recovering.
Practical help for new parents:
midwives, doulas and night nannies
The earliest days of parenthood can be joyful and overwhelming in equal measure - especially if you’re in a new country or far from relatives who’d normally step in. Angels’ baby support services include midwives and doulas who can provide advice and assistance with newborn care, such as bathing guidance, breastfeeding support and practical safety guidance.
For many families, it’s the sleep deprivation that hits hardest. Night nanny support - someone experienced who can care for the baby so parents can rest - can be transformative, even if booked for a short period. It’s not about ‘luxury’; it’s about keeping parents well enough to care safely, especially after a difficult birth or when one parent is managing alone.
Childcare that fits real life (and real holidays)
Mallorca is a family destination, but parents also need time: an evening out, a wedding event, a medical appointment, or simply a quiet hour to recharge. Reliable babysitting can turn an anxious scramble into a calm plan.
Angels states it can provide care for children in their own home, including support for poorly children by specialist nurses if they are too unwell for school while parents still have work commitments. For visitors, that combination of babysitting and medically informed support can be a major reassurance - particularly when travelling with young children.
Peace of mind comes from standards - and from humanity
The care sector is often judged on credentials, and rightly so. But families also look for something less tangible: warmth, discretion and good communication. When someone invites a caregiver or babysitter into their home, they’re asking for professionalismand trust.
Angels has been positioned as offering peace of mind with a personal touch, supporting people who are travelling, recovering, or seeking dayto-day help. That phrase resonates because good care isn’t only about tasks. It’s about knowing someone will show up, understand what’s needed, and treat the person receiving care with dignity.
When should you consider calling?
You don’t need to wait for a crisis. Families often reach out when they notice the ‘small’ signs: a relative is unsteady on their feet, medication routines are getting confusing, or a parent is burning out from sleepless nights. A short conversation can clarify what support is available - and whether it’s needed now or later.
Whether you’re a resident looking for ongoing support, a family arranging care for a loved one, or visitors wanting reliable childcare, the key is finding a service that is responsive, experienced, and easy to communicate with.
Costa del Sol Back galloping
AFTER years of abandonment, Mijas’ once-glamorous Hipódromo de la Costa del Sol is poised for revival.
On Monday December 1, Mijas Council unanimously voted to dissolve the bankrupt company Recursos Turísticos de Mijas SA, which had run the 380,000-square-metre site since the 1990s. Following a share donation from Unicaja Banco, full ownership now returns to the council, ending a bankruptcy process that began in 2018.
Opened in 1999 as Spain’s premier winter racing venue, the hipódromo attracted up to 7,000 spectators with its 1.7-kilometre track. The 2008 financial crisis triggered mounting debts of more than €3 million, races stopped in 2013, and the site fell into ruin. Locals described the overgrown, vandalised complex as a ‘war zone’. Restoring it solely for horse racing would cost an estimated €3.5 million.
Axarquia
Churros and chocolate
HUNDREDS of residents and expatriates gathered in La Herradura’s Plaza de la Independencia on Saturday for the ninth annual Tradicional Merienda de Churros y Chocolate, the village’s popular winter charity event.
The free outdoor feast raised funds for January’s Three Kings Parade. Volunteers served almost 60 giant wheels of freshly fried churros - made from 100kg of dough - and 100 litres of thick hot chocolate. Local favourites Juan Salado and Carmen Medina from Churrería La Herradura cooked the churros on site, while members of women’s associations kept enormous pots of chocolate stirring.
Families packed long tables and benches, children darted between bouncy castles with chocolate-smeared faces, and adults browsed a lively craft and local-produce market. December’s unusually mild weather meant the traditional bonfire remained unlit, adding to the relaxed multinational atmosphere.
Costa Blanca
Little heroes shine
THE youngest residents of El Poble Nou de Benitachell have once again proved that compassion starts early. Pupils at CEIP Santa María Magdalena have been organising an annual charity run for four years, raising funds for a variety of causes. This year, they chose to support Payasospital, a non-profit bringing joy and comfort to hospitalised children and teenagers. Their efforts raised an impressive €2,500, all of which will go directly to Payasospital’s programmes.
Payasospital works in public paediatric wards across the Valencian Community, sending professional clowns to perform personalised shows for each child.
In close coordination with medical staff, the clowns aim to ease anxiety and create moments of fun and distraction. Laughter therapy has been proven to support both emotional and physical recovery, making these visits invaluable for young patients.
Costa Blanca South
Britons boost towns
FOREIGNERS are breathing new life into Alicante’s towns, keeping businesses afloat, filling empty homes, and helping to curb depopulation. New data from Spain’s National Institute of Statistics (INE) reveals that in some Alicante towns, foreigners - particularly Britons - now outnumber local residents.
Many of the newcomers in small Alicante towns arrive after having lived in major tourist hubs along the Costa Blanca South, like Torrevieja. They come to the more rural towns seeking to escape the bustling noise of the city and rising housing costs, looking instead to retire in a peaceful setting, work remotely, or raise their children.
There are a number of reasons why Britons gravitate towards Spain, but the main reasons include the mild climate (which offers what the UK cannot: reliable sunshine), a slower, more laidback pace of life, more affordable properties, the cost of living and a higher quality of healthcare.
Almeria Tourism ties
THE Almeria Provincial Council is promoting the Costa de Almeria as a prime destination at some of the most prominent tourism industry events in other Spanish locations, as well as in other countries. The Council is showcasing the province’s diverse offerings for tourism to key players in the industry, including the Andalucia Professional Days in Madrid and Portugal, the Aviareps Nordic Roadshow in Denmark, and ‘A Night with the Stars’ in the United Kingdom.
The promotional activities consist of a series of professional networking workshops with large groups of companies and institutions from various cities. The efforts are aimed at key players in the industry, including wholesale and retail travel agencies, aiming at facilitating, expanding, and updating knowledge about the province of Almeria and all it has to offer as a holiday destination.
The event has presented a unique and unmissable opportunity for representatives from the Almeria Provincial Council to network.
Costa Calida Calida Christmas
THE Costa Calida municipality of Cartagena has kicked off its Christmas festivities with the lighting of their special holiday lights, and is looking ahead to an exciting December schedule full of magic, merriment, and music. The festivities, which began on Friday, December 5, represented the start of another great year of Christmas festivities, from drone shows, to movie showings, concerts, family activities, and much more.
Cartagena began the event with a great spectacle of light and colour: a drone show over the town involving more than 220 drones. The show, apart from dazzling audiences, marked the beginning of a Christmas programme with more than 300 activities available for the whole of the municipality. In addition to the drone show, Cartagena has welcomed different shows taking place in town, being held at the Apolo Circus Theatre El Algar, the El Batel auditorium, and the Ramón Alonso Luzzy Cultural Centre. These shows will be apt for both the young and old.
Wrapped up
MANY dogs seem to believe that wrapping paper is the most exciting treasure in the world. The crinkle of the sheets and the sudden burst of colour create a sensory experience that feels playful and full of mystery. Dogs explore through scent and sound so the rustle of paper becomes an irresistible invitation to investigate. The presence of new gifts and the attention of the household add to the excitement which often turns unwrapping into a joyful game.
Curiosity can quickly lead to chewing which is where problems begin. Wrapping paper may look harmless but it can cause stomach upset when swallowed. Some decorative papers contain inks or glitter that irritate the digestive system. Paper can also form clumps that
struggle to pass through the gut which may lead to discomfort or in rare cases a blockage. Ribbons and string present an even greater risk since they can twist in the stomach.
Supervision during gift sessions keeps pets safe and still allows them to enjoy the fun. Offer a favourite toy to distract them from stray scraps and tidy paper away promptly. A little care ensures that celebrations remain happy moments for every member of the family.
Bennie the Corgi: Village celebrity and house-sitter favourite
IF there’s one resident who needs no introduction, it’s Bennie the Corgi. With a tail that wiggles like it’s trying to power the village and a grin as wide as his jaunty little gait, Bennie knows everyone - and everyone knows Bennie.
A natural socialite, Bennie treats life like a rolling meet-and-greet. New house-sitter arriving? Excellent - another human to charm. A trip to the local café? Even better - more admirers for his signature neckerchief (yes, he has a collection).
His owners are keen travellers, and while Bennie can’t join most trips, he’s never short of company. Thanks to HouseSitMatch, there’s always a willing sitter ready to spoil him with attention and keep his routines blissfully intact. Locals greet him warmly no matter who’s on the other end of the lead - Bennie accepts these honours with regal composure.
On HouseSitMatch he’s something of a mascot. Pet competitions? He’s in them all - Funny Pet Photo, Best Dressed, Most Photogenic. Sitters
adore him, his owners relax, and Bennie thrives.
Could you care for a dog like Bennie? Bennie thinks yes. HouseSitMatch: Where humans behave and pets thrive
This is where HouseSitMatch comes in - quietly effective, big impact. Homeowners find trusted sitters to secure the home, water the plants, and offer first-class room service to resident pets. Sitters enjoy free accommodation (plus the delight of furry companionship).
Everyone wins: money saved, homes cared for, and pets thoroughly pampered.
Travelling in 2026? Time to register:
1. Visit HouseSitMatch.com and register as a homeowner or sitter.
2. Join for just £89 / €99 a year approx).
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4. Sitters apply, you chat via video, and - bam - matchmaking success.
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The Fair Exchange: Homes, pets and happy hearts
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Who let the dogs out?
Spanish dogs have a better social life than me.
IN Spain, it is a legal requirement for dogs to be leashed in public. However, if you’ve been in Spain for five minutes, you’ll notice how common it is to see a dog plodding alongside their human, completely untethered. Why is this?
Spain has strict laws in regards to cleaning up after your pet. It is a legal requirement to clean up once your dog has done its business or risk a substantial fine. This means that there
is a significant amount of dog parks around every town and city. Some dogs are so well trained that they’ll only go to the bathroom in these parks.
Spain is a very walkable country, with cities often designed for pedestrians. This means that it is so much easier for your dog to tag along with you on your errands. You can take your pooch out for a pee and grab breakfast along the way. Many busi-
nesses are dog friendly. Bars and restaurants are happy to provide a bowl (sometimes an ashtray) of water for your dog. In my experience, the dog gets their drink before anyone else. This then creates more socialised dogs. They have a better social-life than me. They’re used to being out and about, regularly interacting with dogs, making them better behaved, more obedient, and trusted to be offleash.
Credit: Images by Dr. Alan Lipkin
Bennie has a collection of neckerchiefs.
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World Cup fever
AFTER what can only be described as a bizarre first half in which President Donald Trump was awarded a FIFA Peace Prize for not having won a Nobel Prize, the draw for the first round of the World Cup 2026 could begin.
England drew a tough Group L with Croatia, Ghana, and Panama, facing long travels across the US east coast and Canada.
Spain smiled widest, landing easypeasy Group H with Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. Luis de la Fuente’s side, ranked No.1, open June 15 v Cape Verde, play Saudi Arabia there on June 21, then face Uruguay on June 26. Minimal travel and a clear path to top the group could keep them away from Argentina until a potential final.
France were handed the nightmare Group I alongside Senegal, Norway, and a playoff winner. Mbappé’s team face Sadio Mané and Erling Haaland in blockbuster clashes that could derail their title defence (14.1 favourites) before the knockouts.
Germany drew a kinder Group E with Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ecuador - a favourable chance for Nagelsmann’s young side to progress comfortably.
Elsewhere, Argentina meet Algeria, Austria and Jordan; Brazil face Morocco, Haiti and Scotland; hosts USA take Paraguay, Australia and a UEFA playoff; Portugal meet Colombia and Uzbekistan; the Netherlands face Japan and Tunisia. The 48-team tournament across North America now awaits final venue confirmations.
Hometown glory
IT was a resounding victory for Mallorcan sailor Dani Capa of Club Náutic S’Estanyol, as he was crowned champion of the 74th annual ABANCA Ciutat de Palma, after four days of demanding competition on the Palma Bay.
The young sailor successfully maintained his lead from the very first day. While his performance was consistent throughout the competition, his first-place prize was hard fought for. The weather conditions across the Bay of Palma where demanding and ever-changing. The northly winds truly tested the endurance, skill and spirit of the 365 competitors.
Capa’s main rival, Izan Rogel from the Real Club Náutico de Torrevieja, secured second place and went on to take the win in the Under-13 category.
Dani Capa commented on his strategy: “My rival only had one chance, but he had to win the race, so at the start I went after him to control him; I also saw that one of his teammates was positioning himself next to me, to keep an eye on me.”
With the ABANCA Ciutat de Palma trophy in his hands, the young Mallorcan is one step closer to achieving his goal of being among the best sailors in the national regatta and competing in the World Championship.
Copa del Rey matches revealed
THE dates have been set for Real Mallorca and Atlético Baleares’ next Copa del Rey matches. Tuesday, December 16 will see Real Mallorca facing off against Deportivo La Coruña. The match promises to be an intriguing one. Their last match, a promotion play-off, saw the Balearic side overturn a 2-0 deficit from the first leg. Kick off starts at 7.00pm at Riazor stadium. Head
coach Jagoba Arraste will have his work cut out for him ahead of this complicated match against a team
Atletico Baleares have a great match ahead of them too. On Thursday 18 they will host Atletico de Madrid at 9.00pm at the Estadi Balear.
While the upside of this means the blue and whites will have plenty of time to recover from their Sunday game against
Terrassa. The downside, however, means they’ll have just 72 hours before their crucial game against a direct rival, Barcelona B.
For those lucky enough the be inside the Estadi Balear, make sure to soak up every bit of the electric atmosphere. The game is expected to be a good one, as two teams who have never played against each other before come face to face.
Victory for Dani Capa at 74th ABANCA Ciutat de Palma.
Credit: RCNP (photo LAURA G. GUERRA)
Upcoming Real Mallorca and Atletico Baleares matches.
