Mallorca 18 – 24 September 2025 Issue 2098

‘Magical Mallorca’

IN 1957, a 19-year-old Robert Redford, long before his Hollywood fame, arrived in Mallorca seeking artistic freedom. Fresh from New York’s art scene, the aspiring painter found a muse in the island’s golden light and rugged Tramuntana mountains.

For two months, he roamed Palma’s bohemian enclaves, sketching olive groves and azure bays.

“Mallorca was magical,” he later recalled. “I painted several pictures, immersed in its beauty.” Armed with sketchbooks and oils, he wandered the rugged Tramuntana mountains, capturing the olive groves, azure bays, and whitewashed fincas that dotted the landscape.

Local artists welcomed him, sharing hierbas-soaked nights and harbour mornings where he captured fishermen at work. His early canvases, though mostly lost, glowed with Mediterranean spirit.

“I came to Spain wanting to be an artist, and it was 1957. I travelled the country, stayed in Barcelona, and then spent two months in Mallorca, where I painted several pictures.”

BINTER Canarias is making waves for Mallorca by launching its latest ‘Bintazo’ promotional campaign, o ering ultra-low fares to the island from just €21 per leg.

This initiative positions Mallorca as a central hub in Binter’s expanded domestic network, enhancing connectivity between the Balearic gem and key Spanish destinations during the winter season.

With tickets on sale until September 29, 2025, for travel from November 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026, the campaign targets residents and visitors seeking budget-friendly escapes to Mallorca’s stunning beaches and cultural treasures.

Mallorca joins 16 other domestic routes, including Madrid (from €26 per leg), Valencia, Sevilla, and Bil-

Years later, in the mid-1960s, Redford, now 28 and an emerging actor, returned with his young family to Puerto Alcudia. Renting a villa by the bay, he swapped fame for simplicity, craving cultural roots for his children, Shawna and James. They embraced island life - beach days at Platja de Muro, market trips

for ensaimadas, and kids learning Mallorquín phrases. Redford sketched family portraits against Alcudia’s lighthouse, blending his artistic past with fatherhood.

Mallorca, with its serene energy, shaped the legend’s soul, leaving an indelible mark on his creative heart.

The €21 Bintazo

Star-studded spot

FAMED English singer Ed Sheeran recently enjoyed a fantastic pasta lunch in the popular Mallorcan capital of Palma hours before the launch of his much-anticipated new album, which came out on Friday, September 12. The Shape of You singer confessed that he loves the Balearic Island, and frequently chooses it as a holiday destination. He was passing through the city for a few days prior to the album launch and subsequent promotion on a short trip.

Sheeran visited the Mama’s Pepper pizzeria, located in Santa Catalina, where he surprised customers, servers, and the restaurant owners. The recognisable redhead arrived for lunch with a friend and was reportedly very friendly throughout the visit, even snapping some photos with some customers and workers at the restaurant.

The songwriter’s eighth studio album, PLAY, experiments with a di erent sound and marks a new chapter in Sheeran’s career. Sheeran will also perform at the Los40 Music Awards 2025, which will be held at the new Roig Arena in Valencia on November 7, continuing the English singer’s love a air with all things Spain.

promotional fares.

Credit: Pavel1964/Shutterstock

Binter offers 16 routes, including to Mallorca, from only €21 each way and more leg space too.

bao, all operated on Binter’s modern Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.

These e cient planes feature no central seats, extra

legroom, complimentary hand luggage, gourmet snacks, and in- ight entertainment, ensuring a premium experience even on

While exact ight frequencies to Mallorca aren’t speci ed, the route’s inclusion promises seamless links to mainland Spain and the Canary Islands, boosting the island’s appeal as a year-round destination.

This move is a game-changer for Mallorca’s tourism and economy, injecting vitality into the opeak months when visitor numbers typically dip.

Mallorca • No. 2098 • 18 - 24 Sept 2025 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

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Ed Sheeran recently visited popular Palma spot, Mama’s Pepper.

Photo

Robert Redford found in Mallorca a quiet place away from the Hollywood noise - a place where he could relax and paint.

More flights next summer

VUELING is significantly expanding its flight offerings to and from Mallorca for the 2026 summer season, cementing its role as a key connector for the Balearic Islands.

The airline will operate 54 routes across the region, with Mallorca as the focal point, offering 2.3 million seats - 6 per cent more than in 2025 - to meet surging demand from tourists and locals alike.

Mallorca will benefit from 22 direct connections to major Spanish cities, including Barcelona, Madrid, Sevi-

This year’s Sustainable Mobility Week will focus on tackling cyclist challenges on the road to help foster more pedalling and less driving.

lla, and Valencia, ensuring seamless travel options.

The island will also see enhanced inter-island

connectivity, with Vueling providing 260,000 seats for flights linking Mallorca to Menorca and Ibiza, a 20,000-seat boost from the previous year.

This expansion underscores Mallorca’s status as a premier Mediterranean destination, catering to its vibrant tourism sector and resident needs.

While Ibiza and Menorca will also see growth, with 750,000 and 400,000 seats respectively, Mallorca remains the heart of Vueling’s

strategy. CEO Carolina Martinoli highlighted the airline’s commitment to boosting Mallorca’s economy through increased connectivity and sustainable operations, utilising a modern fleet to cut emissions.

Vueling is also enhancing the passenger experience with upgraded digital services and onboard amenities.

This ambitious expansion positions Mallorca as a top travel hub, offering unparalleled flexibility for visitors and residents.

Cyclists’ mobility

IN a bid to boost road safety and sustainable transport, the Council of Mallorca has reinstated its cyclists’ road safety commission after a five-year break, ahead of the European Sustainable Mobility Week from September 16 until September 22.

The forum, reconvened as part of the eco-friendly week, brings together

key stakeholders to tackle cycling challenges on the island’s scenic but busy roads.

The commission serves as a vital platform for dialogue between the Council of Mallorca, the Islands Cycling Federation, user associations, and other institutions. Its core aim is to foster better coexistence among cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists while advancing policies for eco-friendly mobility.

The upcoming meeting, scheduled for Thursday, September 18, will focus on pressing issues, including enhancing civic road projects, reinforcing road surfaces, renewing asphalt on council-managed routes, cleaning verges, widening them in new developments, and installing cyclist-specific signage.

“We are pleased to have reinstated this meeting because the associations and the Federation requested it, and it is a perfect way to hear first-hand about the needs of the people of Mallorca,” said Minister for Territory Fernando Rubio and Island Director of Mobility and Activities Rafel Oliver. With tourism booming, the initiative addresses safety concerns related to narrow roads and heavy traffic, potentially reducing accidents and promoting greener travel options, such as bike-sharing, in Palma and Alcudia.

Vueling’s increased number of flights in 2026 will help boost Mallorca’s economy.

Credit: Joan Llado/Shutterstock

Spain community fees

What homeowners need to know

IN Spain, community fees - the monthly cuota de comunidad - are a fact of life for anyone owning a property in a residential block or urbanisation. Under Article 9 of the Horizontal Property Law (Ley de Propiedad Horizontal, LPH), every homeowner must contribute to shared expenses such as cleaning, lighting, lifts and gardens, regardless of whether they personally use those services.

The amount each owner pays isn’t random. It’s based on a “coefficient of participation” listed in the title deeds, which reflects your floor area, location in the building, orientation, and relation to shared spaces. As a result, two neighbours in the same block may pay different amounts. Special levies (derramas) for upgrades or repairs are split using the same formula.

But when - if ever - can you legally refuse to pay? The law allows exemptions only in very specific cases, and only if clearly stated in the community statutes or approved at a general meeting. Saying “I don’t use the pool” or “I live on the ground floor” isn’t enough.

Owners seeking an exemption must follow the proper process: check the statutes, raise it at the AGM, and make sure any change is formally recorded at the Property Registry.

The takeaway is clear: in Spain, paying community fees is the rule, not the exception. Exemptions exist, but only on paper and under strict legal conditions. Skip payment without solid backing, and you could end up paying far more - in court.

For more information, read the full article at: https:// tinyurl.com/community-fees

Community fees in Spain - what owners pay, and the few legal exemptions

Understanding residency rules NIE vs TIE confusion

FOR many British residents living in Spain, navigating the country’s bureaucratic processes can be complexand in some cases, getting it wrong could put their right to reside at risk.

Several documents - including the NIE, TIE, Tarjeta de Residencia, and Certificado de la Unión - are commonly misunderstood. However, knowing the difference is vital for maintaining legal status.

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a foreign identification number used for administrative purposes, such as opening a bank account, buying property, or working. Crucially, it is not proof of legal residence. Relying on it at border controls or with authorities offers no protection.

The TIE (Tarjeta de Identificación de Extranjero) is the only valid document proving legal residency for non-EU nationals, including Britons post-Brexit. It is a biometric card that includes a photograph, fingerprints, and expiry date, and has replaced the old Tarjeta de Residencia.

Since January 1 2021, British residents fall under the EU Withdrawal Agreement (Article 50), and only the TIE confirms their protected status. Confusing the NIE with the TIE can lead to loss of rights and being treated as an overstayer. There are two types of TIE: temporary (five years) and permanent (ten years), both with strict renewal rules. For Britons in Spain, the message is clear: the NIE is not enough.

Ingreso Minimo Vital Renting in Spain:

Support for low-income households

SPAIN’S Ingreso Minimo Vital (IMV) will continue supporting thousands of households in 2025, with those born between 1960 and 2002 among the key groups encouraged to apply. The benefit isn’t limited to the unemployedworkers with low or unstable incomes may also qualify if their household earnings

below Social Security thresholds. Applicants must have lived legally in Spain for at least 12 consecutive months and be registered at their current address. The IMV is assessed per household unit, meaning income and circumstances of everyone living together are considered. It is designed to top up, not

replace, existing wages or benefits - a vital cushion as food and rent prices remain high.

ID for all adults (DNI or NIE), a recent padrón certificate, proof of income, and family documents (Libro de Familia or birth certificates) are required. Applicants should submit their file even if something is missing, with an explanation, rather than delay. Consistent names and addresses help avoid hold-ups. Claims can be made online or via Social Security offices, with support often available at town halls.

Amounts vary by household, with child supplements of up to €115 per month. Other income is deducted, and non-residence assets may affect eligibility.

For those who don’t qualify, support like pensions, SEPE subsidies or the RAI may apply. While not a cure-all, the IMV can provide crucial stability in tough times.

RENTING in Spain involves paperwork, but data protection laws limit what landlords can request. They’re only entitled to information genuinely needed to set up and manage the tenancy - not a full profile of your private life.

The essentials include your full name, DNI or NIE, contact number, current address, and bank details for the standing order. If utilities are in your name, your data may be shared with energy or water suppliers strictly for service set-up.

Proof of solvency is fair game: landlords can ask for recent payslips, a work contract, tax return, or “vida laboral” (employment history). A guarantor - relative, friend, or bank - may sometimes be requested. These checks are legal and focused on ensuring rent can be paid.

However, tenants are not obliged to provide medical records, criminal background checks, social media profiles, relationship details, or character references. If asked, a polite but firm refusal is appropriate: you’ll provide what’s necessary for the contract - nothing more. To protect your privacy, consider showing documents in person, redacting sensitive details, and keeping records of what you’ve submitted. Landlords who overstep can face action from Spain’s data watchdog, including fines.

Good screening should be thorough but not intrusive. Tenants should remember: if a document isn’t strictly required for the rental, it stays private.

Credit : Brian A Jackson, Shutterstock

Spain’s IMV

Home buying aid

Good news for young homebuyers in Mallorca as the government announces aid of up to €10,800.

Credit: ExclusivePictures/ Shutterstock

away from coastal tourism hubs.

Local officials in Mallorca welcomed the news, noting it could curb youth exodus to mainland Spain. “In places like Arta, where demand is high but supply lags, this could spark a renaissance,” said a Binissalem Council spokesperson.

However, experts caution that while the aid is a step forward, broader reforms are needed to combat island-wide inflation driven by tourism and foreign investment.

For Mallorcans eyeing a first home, this could mark a turning point in the island’s housing narrative.

Celebrating healthcare

IN a heartfelt celebration of resilience and dedication, the Gala de la Salut illuminated Palma’s Teatre Principal on September 16, paying tribute to Mallorca’s unsung healthcare warriors under the banner ‘Orgullosos de nuestra sanidad’ (Proud of Our Healthcare).

Organised by the Govern de les Illes Balears, the event spotlighted 172 groundbreaking projects and initiatives, underscoring the island’s commitment to innovative, humane, and ethical medical care.

Focusing on Mallorca’s vibrant healthcare landscape,

Credit: @salutgoib/X

The Balearic Islands’ Health Ministry congratulated 172 awardees on their special Health Gala on September 16.

the gala recognised excellence across seven categories, with a whopping 43 awards

in Excellence and Best Practices alone. Humanisation in Healthcare earned 23 honours, while Mental Health and Promotion and Prevention in Health received 15 and 29 accolades, respectively. Research initiatives garnered 22 awards, and the new Commitment and Talent category celebrated 25 public servants for their unwavering spirit. An additional 15 prizes went to non-healthcare entities championing health awareness on the island. These accolades highlight Mallorca’s pivotal role in advancing patient-centred care, from cutting-edge research in Palma’s hospitals to community-driven prevention programmes amid Serra de Tramuntana’s serene backdrop. President Marga Prohens lauded the honorees, declaring, “You put body and soul, knowledge, and dedication, holding our hands throughout our lives, essential for quality healthcare deserved by all citizens of the Balearic Islands.”

Single card payment

STARTING next year, all public transport in Mallorca will operate with a single card. It will be called the Single Card and can be requested beginning October 1.

Another new feature: EMT buses will allow payment by bank card, which is expected to facilitate transfers and connectivity between services.

As of March 2026, the Single Card will be the only valid ticket for travel on public transport in Mallorca.

Residents who do not already have an intermodal card must apply for one. At the same time, the Citizen Card will cease to be used as a means of payment from the same date, in six months.

The single card can be requested and obtained at any TIB customer service point, at the EMT customer service

Changing seasons

Credit: neme_jimenez/Shutterstock

All public transport in Mallorca will operate with a single card or bank card starting March 2026.

desk, and at citizen service offices in Palma.

These changes are in line with a future concentric ring fare system, which will involve revising the current fare tables and rewarding users based on their increased use of public transportation.

Future prices are being studied based on various parameters (distance travelled, frequency of use, discounts,

inter-municipal agreements, etc).

EMT buses will also allow bank card payments on board for the first time, a measure long requested by users. What’s more, the system will treat the bank card as a transport ticket, allowing it to recognise transfers or apply discounts when multiple tickets are paid for, such as a family boarding pass.

MALLORCA bids farewell to an un usually balmy Sep tember as autumn officially dawns on Monday, September 22, at 7.19pm, ushe ring in cooler tempe ratures and scattered showers, according to the State Meteorologi cal Agency (Aemet).

The island, which has basked in abo ve-average highs of 28°C to 32°C - about 3°C warmer than usualwill see a noticeable drop of 3°C to 4°C, aligning with seasonal norms.

Miquel Gili, Aemet’s de puty spokesperson for the Balearic Islands, attributes the change to an incoming Atlantic front. Autumn will arrive on Monday, Septem ber 22, with rain and a drop in temperature of about three degrees,” Gili explained, hi ghlighting the front’s role in ending the current stable, sunny spell.

Sunday, September

21, will feature increasing cloud cover, setting the stage for Monday’s rain, though exact intensity remains uncertain. “Many days remain ahead of us, so it’s key to watch for meteorological shifts,” Gili cautioned, urging residents to monitor updates.

Light winds and coastal breezes will prevail beforehand, with possible morning fog in low-lying areas. While no severe alerts are issued, the wetter conditions could disrupt outdoor pursuits, from hiking in the Tramuntana mountains to beach days in Alcudia or Cala Millor.

For tourists winding down summer holidays, the shift signals a gentler, greener Mallorca, potentially boosting inland exploration amid

This seasonal pivot comes after a record-hot summer, raising hopes for replenished reservoirs amid ongoing drought concerns.

Mallorcans can expect scattered showers and a slight temperature drop by Monday, September 22.

Home swapping

swapping in

HOME SWAPPING is emerging as a popular, budget-friendly tourism trend in Mallorca, offering travellers an authentic island experience while bypassing soaring accommodation costs.

The Balearic Islands, with their azure coastlines and vibrant culture, are seeing a surge in holidaymakers opting to exchange homes, a practice gaining momentum through platforms like HomeExchange.

Home swapping allows visitors to stay in a local’s residence - be it a chic Palma apartment or a rustic finca in Alcudia - while the homeowner occupies their counterpart’s property elsewhere.

This model, embraced by thousands globally, fosters cultural immersion and slashes

travel expenses.

In Mallorca, where hotel rates often climb during peak seasons, swappers enjoy free lodging, with the only cost being a modest annual platform fee, typically under €150.

HomeExchange, a leading platform, reports 8,000 registered homes in Spain, with the Balearics ranking among the top destinations.

Mallorca’s appeal lies in its diverse offerings: from Tramuntana mountain trails to Cala Millor’s beaches.

“Swapping lets you live like a local, not a tourist,” said a HomeExchange spokesperson, noting that users can cook with market-fresh produce or explore hidden coves recommended by hosts.

Treasure trove discovery

ARCHAEOLOGISTS at Castell d’Alaró have uncovered a treasure trove of historical insights, revealing previously unknown superposed structures and around 1,000 ceramic fragments from daily life.

The ongoing excavation, launched in July by the Consell de Mallorca and the local town hall, is breathing new life into this iconic 14th-century fortress, perched in the Tramuntana mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage site draws history buffs and hikers alike.

With a €138,000 budget - €15,000 already invested - the project aims to restore the castle’s crumbling walls while probing its layered past.

Lead archaeologist Gabriel Llodrà described the finds as “much more complex than expected,” noting superposed buildings that suggest multiple construction phases, possibly predating the Islamic era tra-

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ditionally linked to the site.

A key discovery is the aljibe, or cistern, which is proven to be deeper than records showed, hinting at an earlier build before Islamic times and a major 14th-century overhaul under Mallorca’s kings.

The ceramics, far exceeding initial estimates, confirm centuries of intense human activity, from medieval inhabitants to earlier settlers. “We’re still in the early

stages, but the results are far more interesting than we thought,” Llodrà said, emphasising efforts to trace the water entry system. These revelations enrich Mallorca’s narrative of Islamic and medieval influences, boosting the island’s appeal as a cultural destination.

As excavations progress, Castell d’Alaró stands as a testament to Mallorca’s enduring historical depth.

Speaking European: From Athens to Spain

For Alexios Christopoulos, known as Alexi, life has always been shaped by movement and music. Born in Athens in the 1980s, he remembers his childhood in Ano Elysia with affection, recalling the slower rhythms of family life in Greece.

AT 11, everything changed when his family moved to England. For two decades, Britain became home, a place where he grew into adulthood, worked tirelessly and adapted to a busy lifestyle. Yet the pull of the Mediterranean never left him.

That call led Alexi and his wife to make a bold decision. In January 2022, they left England with their young daughter and relocated to Spain, seeking sunshine, simplicity and proximity to family. The move transformed their lives. “I like the balance of work and life here. It’s far more relaxed than in England,” Alexi told Euro Weekly News. Spain offered warmth, fiestas and a sense of belonging. Yoga, part of his personal practice for over 20 years,

Credit: Alexi

became a way to connect with others. Teaching in Denia and across the Costa Blanca allowed him to share his passion while embracing Mediterranean living. Music remains at the centre of who he is. Whether playing covers or performing original songs, Alexi brings joy to local audiences. Yet above all, it is the sea - long walks, winter surf and quiet reflection - that grounds him.

Music, however, remains at the heart of who he is.

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Mallorca is trending. It offers a new way to experience the island’s charm.

Credit: Uwe Aranas/Shutterstock

Remains of the Alaro Castle tower in the Tramuntana Natural Park on the island of Mallorca.

MALLORCA

Doggy Race

PORT ADRIANO opens its doors once again to the Doggie Race on Saturday September 20, a unique family event where both adults and children will enjoy themselves, and where pets will be the real stars.

This is a unique and special race where humans and their canine companions will run together as a family.

The main objectives are to raise awareness about the importance of owning a pet and to ensure that the municipality of Calvia becomes more pet-friendly each year, where pets are gradually accepted in more public places and where green spaces are created for them.

The sporting portion of the event will consist of a two-kilometre circuit where participants can run or walk with their pets.

The race will not be competitive, and all participants will receive a prize upon arrival at the finish line. The spirit of this initiative is none other than to share a day of fun among dog lovers and man’s best friend.

Lux dining at Es Fum RESTAURANT REVIEW

LOCATED in the lobby of the five-star St Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort, Es Fum was awarded a Michelin star for the first time in November 2011. Despite the passing of time, the team hasn’t rested on its laurels, continuing to offer cuisine worthy of the accolade.

Although it is a sporting event, it will not be competitive, and all participants will receive their prize upon reaching the finish line.

With this in mind, we aim to create a social sporting event where both pet owners and family members who wish to participate, as well as their pets, can enjoy a day where everyone is a protagonist.

Sineu’s cultural heritage

THE town of Sineu in Mallorca celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Sineu Ciclop 2025 Visual Theatre Festival on Friday, September 19

This is a festival that, year after year, has filled the town with creativity, emotion, and scenic talent, and which is an integral part of the local cultural heritage.

“When we inaugurated the first Ciclop Festival, it seemed very far-fetched to imagine that we would get this far,” the town council said in a statement on the Ciclop Festival website. “But 10 years have passed, and today we can say, with pride and emotion, that this festival has grown with us, with Sineu and with all the people who have left their mark on it.”

To celebrate this decade, Sineu decided to do so by returning to their

years

roots and highlighting what is closest to them, local talent.

“This year, the vast majority of companies programmed are from the Balearic Islands, and you will find some Catalan proposals that arrive thanks to exchanges with festivals with which

we share links and complicity,” the council said.

The festival lasts three days from Friday September 19 until Sunday, September 21. “A charming town, an amazing programme and an atmosphere that you can’t miss awaits you,” it concluded.

The restaurant’s decor exudes the charm of a bygone era, but its cuisine, led by chef Miguel Navarro, is characterised by innovative touches.

The chef has worked at establishments such as El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, voted the best restaurant in the world in 2013. Chef Miguel Navarro and his team offer a ‘Petit Menu’ and a tasting menu. Only the ingredients are specified when describing the dishes on the menu, ensuring that each offering will surprise diners.

ON Saturday, September 20 , Palma will again be the place to be for art lovers as it hosts the 29th Nit de l’Art. From 6pm to 11pm, the streets, galleries, and cultural spots will be open for one of the most-awaited events on the Balearic cultural schedule.

Nit de l’Art is more than just an opening; it’s a great chance to see what both well-known and new artists are up to, all in one night.

The public is welcome to walk through galleries, museums, and other venues showcasing displays, setups, and exhibitions in a fun and friendly setting.

Fourteen galleries from Art Palma Contemporani will be there, such as Pelaires, ABA ART, Pep Llabrés, Fermay, Kewenig, Florit/Florit, Tube Gallery,

Chef Miguel Navarro has elevated the culinary experience at Es Fum to a Michelin-starred level.

The warm asparagus salad with crayfish and truffle vinaigrette, as well as the creamy sea urchin rice with red shrimp and pink grapefruit, evoke the flavours of Mallorca in summer, with savoury, sweet, and fresh notes.

The presentation of the dishes is artistic and cheerful, revealing the planning behind them.

Every bite is designed to be a sensory experience.

Listen to your taste buds, because they’ll convey what the chef is whispering to them.

Their extraordinary cuisine and excellent wine selection, including Mallorcan varieties, reflect the high quality they boast.

Es Fum, The St Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort Ma-1, 19, 07181 Costa d’en Blanes Tel: 971 629 315

Nit de l’Art

Nit de l’Art is a night for art lovers. This year in Palma, galleries, museums, and even streets exhibit art for the 29th year running.

Xavier Fiol, and Galería Maior, along with CCA Andratx and La Bibi + Reus.

Additionally, venues such as Es Baluard Museu, Casal Solleric, CaixaForum Palma, Fundació Miró Mallorca, and Fundación Barceló have planned numerous displays and activities.

Some of the best things to see include group and solo displays with artists from around the world, as well as local artists and special shows in hotels like Nivia Born Boutique Hotel, Sant Francesc Hotel, and Hotel Victoria Gran Meliá, which will turn into art spaces for the night.

Credit: nitdelart/Instagram

The Doggy Race’s main objective is to raise awareness of owning a pet.

Credit: Port Adriano Official

The Ciclop Festival in Sineu celebrates 10

with three days of amazing shows by local talent.

Credit: Restaurant Es Fum

Credit: Sineu Council Ciclop Festival/Instagram

THE Spanish government has approved a draft anti-tobacco law introducing some of Europe’s toughest measures, aiming to protect young people and strengthen public health.

The legislation expands smoking and vaping bans beyond indoor spaces to include terraces, outdoor concerts, stadiums, bus stops, and areas near schools, playgrounds, and hospitals. Electronic cigarettes, shisha, and nicotine pouches would be treated like traditional tobacco products.

The law targets flavoured disposable vapes, which officials say strongly appeal to teenagers. These single-use devices would be banned, and tobacco and vaping sales restricted to licensed tobacconists and regulated vending machines. Smoking clubs would also be prohibited.

Enforcement includes fines of up to €600,000 for serious breaches, such as advertising violations, whi-

Parents will be fined €100 if a minor is caught smoking.

le smaller infractions would also be penalised. The Ministry of Health cites Spain’s annual 50,000 smoking-related deaths to justify the measures.

Public reaction is mixed. África, a Spanish resident, said: “I don’t think youths who vape realise just how dangerous it is. I think it’s a good thing that the government is taking a serious step towards this.” Conversely, Rocío criticised the law, commenting: “I think it’s

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wrong that they are trying to ban smoking in public spaces. The public street is for everyone to use. If they are going to do that, they might as well ban tobacco altogether.”

Health Minister Mónica García defended the law as necessary to break the cycle of tobacco use, while others warn the restrictions could affect the economy and social life, potentially reducing customers at bars, restaurants, and outdoor venues.

Spain grounds Pegasus Spain tightens smoking ban

FOR over a decade, Spain’s Pegasus helicopters have patrolled the skies, catching speeders and reckless drivers with radar systems that made tickets almost impossible to contest. But as of September, those ‘eyes in the sky’ are no longer flying.

The reason isn’t bad weather or technical failure - it’s bureaucracy. A €51 million contract to maintain the fleet, keep the radars running and provide trained pilots was put out to tender this summer. Yet, when the deadline came, not a single company bid. With the last contract expired, Spain’s nine remaining helicopters are grounded.

The lack of bidders highlights Pegasus’s growing problems. The aircraft are ageing, repairs are costly, and the radar systems take up to 10 seconds to lock onto a speeding car - an eternity in modern traffic enforcement. Once seen as a gold standard for road safety, the helicopters are now viewed by many operators as more burden than business.

The DGT insists that road safety won’t suffer. Spain still has an arsenal of tools: fixed and mobile radars, camouflaged vans, drones, and even AI-powered cameras. But Pegasus was unique. Its ability

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to shadow a vehicle for kilometres built a watertight case that few drivers dared to contest. Beyond the fines, it was the psychological impact - the fear that a helicopter might be overhead - that shaped driver behaviour. Experts warn that without Pegasus, Spain may lose one of its most powerful deterrents.

The Interior Ministry says the grounding is only temporary, with helicopters expected to return soon. Some speculate Guardia Civil pilots could fill the gap, but critics argue it’s time to retire Pegasus altogether and focus on drones, which are cheaper, harder to detect, and easier to deploy.

For now, Spain’s skies are quieter. Whether accidents rise in Pegasus’s absence could determine if the iconic fleet makes a comeback or becomes history.

All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

A Pegasus helicopter from Spain’s DGT, known for spotting traffic offences from the sky.

Spain’s rental clampdown

Locals and expats voice their views

SPAIN’S battle over holiday rentals has erupted into one of the country’s fiercest political and social debates. Sweeping national reforms introduced in July 2025 require every short-term rental to register for a National Rental Authorisation (NRA) code, with platforms such as Airbnb and Booking. com obliged to remove unlicensed listings. Residents’ associations can now vote to block tourist lets in their buildings, and local governments from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca have imposed freezes or outright bans.

The backdrop is a housing crisis in which rents have soared, protests have drawn tens of thousands to the streets, and more than 65,000 properties have already been delisted nationwide. Critics say tourism has fuelled ‘overtourism’ and neighbourhood decline, while others argue the real culprit is the lack of affordable new housing.

In Andalucia, the government’s decision to revoke 53,000 tourist rental licences has stirred particular anger. AVVAPRO, the association representing temporary rental owners, calls the move “populist” and says it “threatens Andalucia’s economy,” warning that the national decree defies regional autonomy and undermines businesses that have “operated legally for years.” Many property owners, including British second-home owners, fear being branded illegal despite holding valid regional permits. Further north in the Valencian Community, enforcement has been equally tough. The Housing Ministry has removed 7,499 illegal tourist flats, including 538 in Denia alone. “They should publish the addresses of those properties so that neighbours know who those uncivil landlords are,” said Daniel, a Denia resident frustrated by rising rents. Gabriela, who runs a local hotel, welcomed the crackdown, declaring, “When a section of society proves incapable of imposing ethical limits on itself, the state must act

with the force of a hammer.” Paul, a long-term Torrevieja resident, said: “Everything is being replaced to suit tourists… rents are through the roof, parking is difficult, prices rise, and crime has increased. It helps tourist spending, but it’s harder to live here.”

On the island of Mallorca, authorities have struck agreements with Airbnb to ensure every host provides a valid registration number, hoping to curb what one minister described as profiteering: “Enough with protecting those who make a business out of the right to housing in our country,” said Spain’s Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy.

Protests there have at times turned hostile, with locals dousing visitors with water. Some business owners also blame shortterm lets for changing tourist habits; restaurant leader Juanmi Ferrer complained, “We’ve reached the point where in Port de Soller there are restaurants that are giving their staff vacations in the middle of July because of the so-called sandwich tourists.”

In Malaga, the tension is palpable. The

Unlicensed listings being removed.

city has imposed a three-year moratorium on new tourist licences and revoked more than 10,000 existing ones after long-term rents ‘doubled in around eight years’, according to resident Lucinda de la Cereza. “No owner will rent long-term over short-term. Too many are scared of squatters,” added another resident. Yet not everyone blames tourism. Holiday-rental entrepreneur Juan Cubo Guerrero calls the backlash ‘demonisation’ and insists ‘Malaga is not Venice’, arguing that short-term lets have decentralised tourism and revitalised neglected villages

Neighbouring Axarquia has taken a gentler stance. Only about 5 per cent of homes in Torrox are listed as tourist rentals and most residents are relaxed for now. Still,

pressures are evident. “My rent has gone up 30 per cent in the last three years,” said Antonio, a waiter in Torre del Mar, who believes “it’s not only Airbnb, but it’s part of the story.” Locals note that visiting families spend freely in neighbourhood markets and restaurants, keeping small businesses alive. Further east in Almeria, where demand from British expatriates is strong, the impact is mixed. Caroline Webb of Almerimar sees both sides: “Airbnbs can attract more visitors… It also draws people who prefer ‘living like a local’,” she said, while acknowledging that in bigger towns “Airbnb makes housing more expensive in busy tourist cities.” Smaller communities, she added, have so far escaped the steep price rises seen elsewhere. Murcia’s quieter Costa Calida presents another perspective. There, holiday rentals are largely confined to purpose-built resorts, and illegal listings are rare. Paul, a local estate agent, warned that too heavy-handed a ban would hurt livelihoods: “Some resorts were set up with holiday rentals in mind; their daily spend is much higher than that of locals. If demand drops, the resort shops, bars, and restaurants could close.” Many residents favour sensible regulation but oppose outright prohibition, seeing tourism as vital to jobs and services.

Across Spain the dilemma is the same: how to protect housing for residents without undermining an industry worth more than €200 billion a year. From the water-throwing protesters of Mallorca to the cautious shopkeepers of Axarquia and the hoteliers of Denia, reactions differ sharply. What unites them is a recognition that the free-for-all of unregulated tourist rentals is ending.

Whether the new laws can tame both soaring rents and public anger without crippling local economies remains the country’s great unanswered question.

Mexico in technicolour

FROM COAST TO COAST

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

Lost in Mexico City

AZTEC ruins, organ grinders, tacos, and enough colour to make your sunglasses sweat - welcome to Mexico City.

Many things impressed me on my trip to Mexico City. Let’s start with the basics: the kindness of its people and the stunning architecture - a blend of sleek modern towers and Aztec ruins that pop up in the middle of the city as if the ancient world never got the memo about retiring. Flying in from Madrid took 10 hours and 20 minutes - which, for someone who hates flying, is less ‘journey’ and more ‘aerial torture’. But worth it? Oh, yes.

Mexico doesn’t do ‘subtle’. It’s loud, generous, unpredictable - like the relative who shows up at Christmas with maracas and tequila. Sure, everyone speaks Spanish, but the accents vary so wildly you’d think they were auditioning for different soap operas. And the dialects! Dozens, from Maya to Mixteco, some older than Columbus. Listening to them, you realise you’re not just eavesdropping on conversationsyou’re overhearing living history.

And then there’s the colour. Mexico doesn’t dip a toe into colour; it cannonballs into the paint bucket. Bright pinks, yellows, and blues burst from walls, markets, and murals as if the country were redecorated by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera in a fit of joy - with Siqueiros and Orozco, Mexico’s Big Three muralists, crashing the party. The streets are alive with vendors grilling food, selling fruit, trinkets, and anything you

didn’t know you needed until it was waved in your face for 50 cents. Try saying no to an Indigenous mother, baby on her back, offering a trinket for 50 cents. Her sales pitch could outshine a luxury store clerk on commission. You’ll cave.

One sight I’ll never forget: the organ grinder. Yes, those wooden music boxes with the crank handle, pumping out jaunty tunes in downtown Mexico. I thought they disappeared with gas lamps and horse-drawn taxis - but no, here they are, still alive, still cranking. Europe may have let them fade, but Mexico, bless it, keeps them going like musical time travellers.

And then there’s the food. My goodness, the food. Tacos so good you want to write them a thank-you note. Tamales that could broker world peace. And mole - a sauce so complex it probably has its own PhD. Even UNESCO got hungry: in 2010, it declared traditional Mexican cuisine an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. That’s right - tacos are officially a treasure of the world.

As if that weren’t enough, my trip had a personal highlight: seeing my childhood friend, the luminous Adriana Del Rio, dazzling on stage in the play Clue. She lit up the theatre with a performance so radiant it reminded me that Mexico’s treasures aren’t just murals, ruins, or food - they’re also the people who carry its spirit wherever they go.

Mexico City - with its food, people, history, creativity, and architectureisn’t just a place you visit once. It reels you back again and again. So bravo, Mexico. You’ve given the world endless treasures - and the least we can do is show up, eat irresponsibly, and say gracias.

aif2018@hotmail.com

Driverless bus

MADRID launched its first driverless bus route in Casa de Campo park on Monday September 15, coinciding with European Mobility Week (September 16-22).

Operated by the city’s public transport company (EMT), the autonomous, compact bus will run an experimental route between Avenida de Portugal and Glorieta de los Neveros, with stops including one near Lago metro station. The trial aims to showcase sustainable urban transport and will continue for weeks.

This follows previous autonomous bus trials in the region, like ALSA’s test at Universidad Autonoma’s Cantoblanco campus and a week-long trial in Leganes in early 2025. The Leganes project, Spain’s first on-demand driverless bus, plans to connect the Technology Park to the city centre

by 2026, using a 100 per cent electric bus with a 300 km range and capacity for 52 passengers.

The Casa de Campo trial has sparked debate. Environmental groups and the Salvemos la Casa de Campo platform criticise testing in a protected green space, arguing it could increase congestion and disrupt the park’s tranquility and ecological value. Critics see the park as an ‘urban

laboratory’ due to challenges elsewhere. The EMT defends the project, highlighting reduced emissions and efficient transport potential.

The trial is part of Madrid’s European Mobility Week, featuring traffic restrictions, awareness campaigns, and a CarFree Day on Monday September 22, advancing future mobility solutions despite implementation challenges.

Movaldi’s opinions are

Hop on the bus with no driver.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Turespaña Convention

ZARAGOZA will host the 6th Turespaña Convention from October 20-22, 2026, as recently announced by the Spanish Tourism Institute. Backed by the city’s tourism industry, the bid emphasised sustainability, including a carbon footprint plan and a dedicated forest.

AI hospitality

AI is transforming Spain’s hospitality industry, with studies showing 20 per cent of Spanish travellers use AI to plan trips (Nucamp). Hotels are adopting chatbots, WhatsApp conversions, and smart pricing tools, while experts stress staff training to balance automation with human touch.

Tourism growth

SPAIN’S tourism GDP grew 2.7 per cent in early 2025, outpacing the national economy’s 2.4 per cent, according to CaixaBank Research. The catering industry rose 2.6 per cent year-on-year. Analysts highlight slower but more sustainable post-pandemic growth. US tourist spending remains uncertain.

Ski upgrade

THE Sierra Nevada ski resort will invest €19 million in a major modernisation plan for the 2025/26 season, reports Spain Travel News. Upgrades include new snow grooming machines, 12 snow cannons, lift renovations, and a rebuilt Nevasol restaurant, following a record-breaking financial year.

World Research

THE UK will launch a “New Horizon” campaign in Spain and Germany to boost collaboration through Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research programme worth £82 billion (€95.5bn), reports the UK government (Gov.uk).

STAT OF WEEK

Spain is the world’s second-largest tourism earner.

Spain fintech awards

SPANISH fintech ID Finance and its consumer platform Plazo Credit have been honoured at the Global Banking & Finance Awards 2025, with judges recognising their impact on financial innovation and customer empowerment.

ID Finance, which operates in Spain and Mexico, was named ‘Best Fintech Company Spain 2025’ for its role in making digital financial services more accessible, inclusive and efficient.

Wanda Rich, Editor of Global Banking & Finance Review, said, “ID Finance continues to drive digital innovation in Spain’s and Mexico’s

First Movers

financial sector, combining advanced technology with a clear mission for financial inclusion. Its ability to merge innovation with customer trust positions the company as a leader in fintech and

Coalition

SPAIN officially joined the First Movers Coalition on September 8 becoming the 14th country to back the global push for decarbonisation in hardto-abate industries.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said it marked “another step forward in [Spain’s] commitment to climate action and sustainable innovation” (World Economic Forum).

Launched at COP26 in 2021 by the World Economic Forum and then US envoy John Kerry, the coalition drives demand for clean industrial tech across sectors like steel, cement, aviation and shipping. It now has over 100 members and aims to cut 30 million tonnes of CO2 annually by 2030.

Several Spanish firms, including Iberdrola and

Labour costs

SPAIN’S labour costs rose 5.4 per cent year-on-year in Q2 2025, according to provisional data from the INE’s Harmonised Labour Cost Index (INE).

Adjusted figures show a 3.8 per cent rise, with salary costs up 3.5 per cent and other costs up 4.5 per cent.

The sharpest increases were in professional, scientific and technical activities and energy supply (both 6.5 per cent).

By contrast, public administration and arts and entertainment saw rises of barely 1 per cent.

a trusted partner for consumers” (Global Banking & Finance).

Plazo Credit, ID Finance’s flagship consumer finance product, received the title of ‘Best Alternative Credit Specialist

Spain 2025’. The platform offers flexible debit and credit solutions without long-term commitments, aiming to boost financial stability and freedom.

Rich added, “Plazo Credit stands out as a dynamic alternative credit provider, offering lending solutions that empower customers and promote responsible borrowing. Its dedication to transparency and customer empowerment is reshaping the way credit is accessed in Spain.”

The Global Banking & Finance Awards, founded in 2011, celebrate institutions setting new standards in the financial industry.

Acciona, are already members, joining heavyweights in the global supply chain. With Europe enduring record heat and wildfires in 2025, Spain’s decision underlines both urgency and opportunity.

PROPERTY portal Idealista posted revenues of over €300 million in 2024, a 16 per cent year-onyear rise, according to Online Market Places. Its domestic arm, Idealista SAU, grew 15 per cent to €159m. But profits dipped, with EBITDA down 10 per cent to €84m and a €52m net loss, blamed on staff bonuses linked to last year’s Cinven acquisition. Employees have now received three such bonuses in nine years.

PAN GLOBAL RESOURCES has reported significant gold assay results from drilling at its Cármenes Project in northern Spain, with highlights including 34m at 3.01 g/t gold near surface and 5m at 8.93 g/t gold, the company announced (Pan Global). CEO Tim Moody said, “The new results expand the near-surface breccia-hosted gold mineralisation and include the highest-grade gold intercept at Providencia to-date.” Drilling continues with further assay results pending.

FCA warning Clear Channel

CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR

HOLDINGS has agreed to sell its Spanish business to Atresmedia for €115 million, the company confirmed in a statement (PR Newswire). CEO Scott Wells said, “This agreement represents the final step toward completing our process to divest our European businesses.” Proceeds will be used to reduce debt, while Clear Channel Spain’s CEO Jordi Sáez Camacho described it as “an exciting new chapter.” The transaction is expected to close by early 2026, pending regulatory approval.

THE UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has told MPs it will not accept claims from car finance firms that customer data on mis-sold loans has been “lost” as part of a potential £18 billion redress scheme.

FCA chief executive Nikhil Rathi told the Treasury committee, “Where a firm says to us that they don’t have the data, we’re not just going to take that at face value. We will look at that very forensically.”

The scheme, triggered by a Supreme Court ruling in August, could compensate millions of drivers who were overcharged through commission deals.

CSH, a Sheffield-based specialist in liquid cooling systems for AI data centres, has secured a £250,000 finance facility through Dynamic Funding.

Founded in 2016, CSH now exports 99 per cent of its products, with demand soaring in Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East. Director Colin Hume said, “We wouldn’t have been able to build the foundation that we have done to date without the guidance from UKEF and the finance facility from Dynamic Funding” (Gov.uk). The funding allowed CSH to process £1.5 million in orders between April and May.

Fintech - trasforming global markets.

Pedro Sánchez and Børge Brende.

3I Group 3.822,00 3.845,00 3.817,00 23,38K

Group 3.306,0 3.324,0 3.306,0 3,32K

25,98K

45,17K

9,73K

British Foods 1.975,0 1.977,5 1.973,0 10,73K

62,65K

382,55 383,35 381,80 991,93K

Redrow 368,90 369,70 368,56 46,4K Beazley 831,00 835,00 818,00 118,75K Berkeley 3.652,0 3.670,0 3.646,0 3,17K BP 420,30 423,40 420,30 1,16M British American Tobacco 4.164,0 4.187,0 4.158,1 45,43K

BUSINESS

EXTRA

Energy exodus

INEOS, owned by billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has halted UK investment and shifted £2.2 billion to US operations, blaming Labour’s North Sea oil tax, reports GB News Executives slammed Britain’s ‘unstable fiscal regime’, warning it jeopardises energy security and industry.

Fashion sales

INDITEX, owner of Zara, Bershka, and Massimo Dutti, reported H1 2025 sales up 1.6 per cent to €18.36 billion, with net income rising 0.8 per cent to €2.8bn, reports Fashion Network . CEO Óscar García Maceiras praised a “solid performance.”

BBVA under pressure

BBVA’S takeover bid for Banco Sabadell is facing strong resistance, with analysts and Sabadell’s leadership calling the €14.7 billion offer ‘poor’ and undervalued compared to the bank’s €16.3 billion market worth.

BBVA is offering one share plus €0.70 in cash for every 5.5483 Sabadell shares. But with Sabadell trading nearly 9 per cent above the offer, experts say an increase is essential.

Market analyst Franco Macchiavelli told El Economista, “BBVA’s

RIPPLE has expanded its European presence by signing an agreement with Spanish banking giant BBVA to provide its digital asset custody technology. The deal, announced on September 9, supports BBVA’s new crypto trading and custody service for Bitcoin and ether available to retail customers in Spain.

Cassie Craddock, Ripple’s Managing Director for Europe, said the partnership came at a crucial time, “Now that the

Ripple expands

EU’s Market’s in Crypto-Assets regulation (MiCA) is established across Europe, the region’s banks are emboldened to launch the digital asset offerings that their customers are asking for” (Ripple).

The agreement extends Ripple’s existing work with BBVA in Switzerland and Turkey.

offer starts with a negative premium, and to be attractive, it should be at least 7 to 10 per cent above the current share price.”

Atl Capital’s Ignacio Cantos was blunter, “The increase should be around 20 per cent because, if we applied economic logic right now, no one would participate in the takeover bid.”

JB Capital argued BBVA could raise the bid by up to 34 per cent without losing most of its expected €900 million in synergies.

Sabadell chairman Josep Oliu dismissed the proposal as ‘poor’ and based on ‘unrealistic’ assumptions, urging shareholders not to accept.

Shareholders have until October 7 to decide, leaving BBVA in a delicate position: raise its bid and risk diluting its own investors, or hold firm and risk rejection.

Avocado project

SPAIN has financed a €37 million (US$40m) avocado project, one of the country’s largest agribusiness deals to date, reports Iberian Lawyer. Led by Banco Santander with backing from Arcano Partners and public bank ICO, the project funds land purchases and a major Qultiva Farms avocado plantation. Law firms Dentons and Ontier advised on the deal.

Electricity grid

POWER utilities lobby Aelec has warned over 80 per cent of Spain’s grid’s nodes are saturated, threatening instability and blocking new energy connections, reports Reuters. Operators say massive investment is needed to prevent bottlenecks. Aelec said, “Without these conditions, it will not be possible to connect industry, housing, storage, or electric mobility.”

BBVA, Madrid.

Credit: JJFarq, Shutterstock.

Playing it all down

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

WITHOUT question the news media is the most powerful propaganda machine on the planet. This is why, in the event any coup or takeover operation, the first places the insurgents or rebels make for are the offices of the newspapers or TV and radio outlets. Once this is achieved, they can deliver their messages and rhetoric to all and sundry. Although the social media can often give us a broader spectrum of events, the main media is nevertheless still the world’s most influential outlet. Quite often however, it is not what they do report that is the most revealing of their intentions, but what they actually decide to omit. How often have you said to yourself, whatever happened to ‘so and so’? Or how did that story of what’s his/her name finally pan out? It’s actually quite simple.

The censorship of exclusion can often be the most powerful disinformation of all. Did you notice how quic-

kly the assassination of that Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi ultimately disappeared from the front pages? There was no way the Saudi Royal family would be brought down or threatened by the untimely demise of some relatively small time dissident.

You can bet some form of high diplomatic influence was brought to bear and the media instructed to play it all down until it was conveniently forgotten.

And whatever happened to the three young men from the dating agency who set fire to the car and former abode of Kier Starmer? Not a peep. Mind you don’t trip over the ever-rising carpet all this information has undoubtably been swept under! Reports of any possible punishment for the man found guilty of assaulting the police officers at Manchester airport has also been extremely quiet of late; this is because the public’s reaction could be so hostile it could jeopardise the whole distorted operation of sentencing, which you can bet is still under full ‘woke’ throttle with hand rubbing legal teams earning fortunes from tax payer’s

money in the process. (what’s the betting he receives no jail time at all).

Were you also aware that with the breaking up of the Arctic ice sheets, methane, a greenhouse gas which is far more harmful than carbon monoxide, is being released into the atmosphere at an alarming rate and could result in temperature changes of four to six degrees centigrade in just two decades? This would not only be an utter disaster for the planet, but make cutting CO2 emissions an utter waste of time. Better to not publish that. After all, what would all the ’wokers’ do then? Protest for God to retilt the Planet? Not to mention endangering the billions being earned by the electric car manufacturers, which is given so much leftie propaganda people actually believe it’s a commendable operationwhich it most certainly is not. Never ends. Many thanks for all your mail. I always try to keep abreast of most of your suggestions. Keep ‘em coming, and whatever ya do, always….. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

Expensive cheese

A 2.5-KILOGRAMME Cabrales cheese from the village of Arenas, Asturias, created by Angel Diaz Herrero’s dairy and aged by Encarnacion Bada, fetched a record-breaking €37,000 at auction, earning the title of the world’s most expensive cheese in the Guinness World Records.

The winning bid, placed by Ivan Suarez of El Llagar de Colloto restaurant in Oviedo, made it the sixth consecutive year the establishment got the top cheese at the 53rd Cabrales Cheese Contest, a regional tourism event which drew more than 2,000 attendees.

Selected from 13 entries under the Cabrales Protected Designation of Origin, the stinky cheese, made from cow’s milk and aged for nine months in the Los Mazos cave at 1,500 metres altitude, surpassed last year’s record of €36,000 by another €1,000. The auction saw fierce competition, with bids from nine Spanish establishments, including La Montera Picona in Gijón and La Cuenca in Madrid, starting at €3,000. Suarez, who hesitated to attend but was egged on by his father, said the purchase was a passionate investment in promoting Asturias and its iconic Cabrales cheese, and despite the high cost of €14,800 per kilo, he plans to share portions with family, friends, and customers.

Robert Redford dies

ROBERT REDFORD, one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors and a driving force behind independent cinema, has died at the age of 89. The actor, director and activist passed away on September 16 at his beloved home in Sundance, Utah, surrounded by family. His death marks the end of an era for film, but his influence will continue to shape the industry for generations.

Redford rose to fame in the 1960s and 70s with unforgettable roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting and All the President’s Men. His charm, good looks and screen presence made him a box-office star, yet he refused to be defined only as a leading man. In 1980, he made his directorial debut with Ordinary People, a drama that stunned critics and won the Oscar for Best Picture.

But perhaps his most enduring legacy is the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival, founded in the early 1980s. At a time when Hollywood had little space for independent voices, Redford created a platform that launched the careers of filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and Steven

Soderbergh. Sundance became a global symbol of creative freedom, reshaping modern cinema and inspiring generations of storytellers.

Outside of film, Redford was a passionate environmentalist, long before it was mainstream. He campaigned to protect the American West, lived close to nature in Utah, and used his influence to advocate for conservation.

Hollywood, fellow artists and fans around the world are now mourning the loss of a man whose career spanned six decades. As tributes pour in, one thing is clear: Robert Redford’s legacy will never fade.

Credit: Llagar de CollotoFB

Ivan Suarez and Encarnacion Bada.

Hollywood icon Robert Redford at a red carpet event.

Credit : Andrea Raffin, Shutterstock

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Old ways best

LIVESTOCK farmers in Malaga Province are pressing for long-term wildfire prevention plans after Spain’s worst fire season in 2025. Despite Malaga recording minimal scorched land due to a rainy March ending a three-year drought, farmers warn that neglecting land clearing could lead to devastating fires like those in Mijas or Sierra Bermeja in 2022.

Jubrique’s mayor, Alberto Benítez, highlighted a shortage of forest agents, with only three to four active instead of seven, recalling the 2021 Sierra Bermeja fire that destroyed 10,000 hectares.

Local councils are acting. Benarrabá’s mayor, Silvestre Barroso, invested €3,000 in a 40-goat herd to clear forest land in Serranía de Ronda and enlisted Donkey Dreamland’s rescued donkeys for natural undergrowth clearance.

The decline of grazing animals in forests and scrubland like sheep, goats, and wild boars has increased fire risks.

Axarquia

New star in Andalucia

VELEZ-MALAGA is becoming one of Andalucia’s cultural and tourist hotspots. Recent figures confirm what locals already feel: the town is on the rise, both in visibility and in visitor numbers.

According to the local authorities, Google Trends data show a sustained growth in interest for Velez-Malaga. “We remain well above pre-pandemic levels, with an average increase of 4.4 per cent compared to 2019 and 2020,” Jesús Pérez Atencia, first deputy mayor and councillor for Tourism, explained.

The trend reached a historic record in April 2023 and continues to peak during Semana Santa, one of the town’s most important cultural events. This year’s Holy Week alone brought more than 37,000 visits to the official website, with users spending an average of two minutes exploring content. Notably, 90 per cent of those visits came from mobile devices, thanks to the website’s mobile-first design and its integration with Google Maps.

Costa Blanca North

Living the high life

BENIDORM is preparing to add another giant to its skyline. The TM Tower, currently under construction beside Poniente beach, will rise to 230 metres, making it the tallest residential building in Spain and the fourth highest tower in the country.

The only structures taller are three of Madrid’s Cuatro Torres business district: Torre Cristal (249 metres), Torre Moeve (248) and Torre PwC (236). TM Tower will surpass Torre Emperador, which stands at 224 metres.

Benidorm is no stranger to vertical landmarks. Its 192-metre In Tempo tower is currently the nation’s tallest residential block, while the Gran Hotel Bali, at 186 metres, has dominated Poniente since 2002. According to the specialist website Skyscraper Page, the city of 70,000 inhabitants already boasts 108 skyscrapers.

The project is being developed by TM Grupo Inmobiliario. TM Tower will offer 64 floors of one-tofour-bedroom homes.

Costa Blanca South Rocking it up

THE annual Rock Against Cancer festival returned to Torrevieja this past weekend, bringing two nights of live music and supporting local cancer charities. Held at Parque Antonio Soria, the festival featured tribute acts to some of rock’s biggest names. Friday honoured Foo Fighters, AC/DC, Bryan Adams and Bruce Springsteen, while Saturday brought tributes to Green Day, The Offspring, Guns N’ Roses and Sum 41.

Organisers confirmed that around 10,000 people attended each day, many of whom were tourists or expats. Speaking to Euro Weekly News, organiser Janet said: “I think we broke a new record for attendance. I’ve never seen so many people.” She added: “Around 90 per cent of those who attended were foreign, with only around 10 per cent being Spanish.” When asked about the amount raised, Janet said: “We’re unsure as we have yet to calculate the final amount, but it is definitely more than last year.”

Almeria

Briton bounty

THE region of Almeria has long been the object of Britons’ love: its beautiful and glimmering coast, the breathtaking nature of its inland areas, and its quaint and rural towns have made it a top destination for UK holidaymakers, and it’s no surprise some of them choose to stay for good. Rental and housing platform Idealista recently reaffirmed this with data from the second quarter of 2025, showing that 22 per cent of the inquiries from property listings from abroad come from Britons. This represents the highest percentage of interest across the whole of Spain, even ahead of the famously bustling and desirable Alicante.

Almeria has recently been of great interest to holidaymakers, with a booming peak season in 2025 and more opportunities for touristic growth and expansion, including more participating in worldwide tourism fairs and gastronomic events. With affordable housing, delicious food, and unparalleled natural draws, Britons are increasingly more enamored with the province.

Costa Calida

Ed Sheeran surprise

LA ALGAIDA, a small village in Archena, is in full swing for its annual patron saint festival, and this year came with a big surprise. The celebrations kicked off with the crowning of the festival queens, followed by the traditional opening speech, or ‘pregón,’ delivered by local-born Clara Guillén.

Now living in Bristol, Guillén works as a civil servant, researcher, and lecturer at the Open University, and she has written several books and scientific articles. Her speech touched the crowd, bringing back shared memories and pride in the village’s traditions.

But the biggest moment came right after. British singer Ed Sheeran appeared on the big screen with a video message, sending his best wishes to everyone celebrating. Sheeran has a special connection to the area, his first visit to Spain as a child was to Murcia for a family wedding, and he still remembers it fondly.

PETS

Quirky kitty

CATS may be small, but they are full of surprises. These curious companions have been fascinating humans for thousands of years, and it is no wonder they are one of the world’s most popular pets—with an estimated over 370 million domesticated cats worldwide.

One of the most impressive facts about cats is their ability to jump. A healthy adult cat can leap up to six times its body length in a single bound, thanks to its powerful hind legs and flexible spine. This makes even the highest shelves a potential perch.

Cats also have incredibly sharp hearing. They can detect frequencies up to 64 kilohertz, well beyond human capacity and far superior to that of dogs. This skill makes them expert hunters, able to locate even the tiniest movements in the grass or under floorboards. Each cat’s nose print is as unique as a human fingerprint, and their whiskers are so sensitive they can detect changes in air currents. Add to that their ability to rotate their ears 180 degrees, and you have a creature that is both quirky and quietly extraordinary.

Unique working dogs

ALL around Europe, especially in the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Belgium, farmers once used dogs to pull small carts of milk from farms to the cities. Then, they’d sell milk in the streets or markets. Even today, there are a few dog-drawn milk carts in France and Belgium. Pulling these carts, however, tends to be a form of exercise for dogs today.

Plan now for Christmas pet-sitters

AS with all travel arrangements peak season must be planned early. And it it applies to the Christmas and New Year holidays. If you are planning to go away and need pet-sitters please plan now.

This is the perfect time to find a sitter and get a commitment for that very busy time of year. Join HouseSitMatch and we can help you find free checked pet-sitters who won’t charge you a penny. And in exchange they enjoy free accommodation in your home. It’s a win win!

The pet-sitters come for free!

And, if you’re planning a trip in 2025 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised ahead of time. All pets benefi t from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network, and the sitters come for

leave finding a pet-sitter at Christmas to the last minute - plan now.

free!

Choose HouseSitMatch for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

1. Register as a homeowner of a house-sitter depending on your motivation, on HouseSit Match.com

2. Choose a Standard account (£89 per year) to ensure you can get help online when needed

3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters or a new place to discover as a house-sitter. Join our network for a small fee, get ID checked for safety and build your advert or house-sitter profile. It’s done in minutes!

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

Pure Joy - I have completed two house-sits so far, so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog.

Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more!

Lisa Stimpson, pet-sitter, UK

How do you join?. Please register online via our website Housesitmatch.com

Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting benefits both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation!

Saying goodbye

HEARING that your beloved pet needs to be put to sleep is one of the hardest things a pet owner can face. While nothing can truly ease the heartbreak, preparing thoughtfully can help you and your pet find peace in their final moments.

Start by spending quality time together in the days or weeks you have left. Keep their routine comfortable, offer favourite foods, and shower them with affection. Take photos, create memories, or even write a letter to your pet if it helps you process your emotions. Speak with your vet about what to expect. They can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and explain options like in-home euthanasia for a more peaceful setting.

Decide in advance whether you want to be present, and consider having a trusted friend or family member with you for support.

morials, keepsakes, or simply sharing stories can help honour their memory.

Afterwards, give yourself permission to grieve. Losing a pet is losing a family member. Me-

Preparing with love and intention allows your pet to leave this world surrounded by care, comfort, and dignity.

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Kia Picanto - characterful fun

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

SMALL city cars are an endangered species it seems nowadays, the SUV rules the showrooms but there are a few exceptions and one of these is Kia’s Picanto. It’s been in the sales brochures since 2004 and remains one of the most popular small city cars.

The range starts at a modest, by today’s standards, €19,362/£16,695 and standard equipment across the range includes cruise control, heated and adjustable door mirrors, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, navigation, auto lights, TPMS and reversing camera with sensors.

ve-speed automatic.

The three model Picanto line-up starts with the Pure grade and follows on with the GT Line and GT Line S. Picanto power is a 1.0-li-

Despite the Picanto’s diminutive size it’s surprising how spacious it is inside, don’t get me wrong you won’t be packing for four people on a week’s camping holiday. However, unless you have very long legs and lots of luggage, you’ll be plea-

DGT plate rules

MOTORCYCLE

and moped owners in Spain can now breathe easier.

The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has updated its regulations on number plate placement, turning what was once a finable offence into something fully legal. Under the new Order PJC/780/2025, riders of mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles now have more flexibility as long as plates remain visible and easy to read.

For quadricycles, the reform goes further, allowing the option of a front plate for the first time. It’s a move that recognises both practicality and design, giving owners more choice without sacrificing safety. The DGT insists, however, that plates must still be mounted vertically, or close to it, so they can be clearly identified at all

times. Visibility remains the key condition.

For bikers, the change means more freedom to adapt plates to their vehicle’s design, reducing previous clashes between style and regulation. The update also reflects the reality of modern vehicles, where rigid placement rules often made little sense. By easing restrictions, the DGT hopes to strike a balance between driver convenience and road safety.

The decision highlights

a shift in traffic policy towards adapting rules to fit real-world use. It also underscores that avoiding fines is only part of the story - the aim is to modernise Spain’s traffic framework while keeping essential safeguards in place. Riders are encouraged to review the full text of the order to ensure compliance.

The DGT has given light vehicle owners more flexibility, but the golden rule remains clear - if the plate isn’t visible, it isn’t legal.

santly surprised. Although there is quite a lot of hard plastics the interior looks and feels pretty decent and doesn’t feel like a cheap option.

My top-of-the-range GT-Line S model is a fantastically well equipped car with heated seats, steering wheel, auto lights including high-beam assist, electric glass tilt and slide sunroof, automatic air conditioning, faux leather uphols-

tery, keyless start and entry/exit, rear privacy glass, wireless mobile charging, the list is endless.

On the road the Picanto has the usual array of bings, bongs and chimes for seemingly anything the driver does, but then that’s common to all new cars irrespective of manufacturer. The ride is good and the visibility excellent, and being able to see all four corners of the car makes it a doddle to manoeuvre in tight spaces.

It’s a car that can be immense fun, certainly it’s got character, but the engine is its downside. If you are using the Picanto for urban driving, which to be fair it’s designed for, then you’ll thoroughly enjoy the drive. Meet the slightest incline or need a turn of speed to join a fast road and you’ll need to make very good use of the gears. The price tag of my top-of-the-range GT-Line S at €22,667/£19,545 is also a potential stumbling block when you look at some of the competition.

All that said the Picanto achieves something few ‘ordinary’ cars can manage, it puts a smile on the driver’s face.

Buying a car in Spain

EXPATS buying a car in Spain in 2025 face more than just the sticker price. VAT, registration taxes, and local fees can quickly add up. VAT on new cars is 21 per cent, though large families and disabled drivers may qualify for a reduced 4 per cent. Second-hand cars from private sellers are subject to a 4–8 per cent Patrimonial Transfer Tax, depending on the region. In places like Catalonia, cars more than 10 years old are often exempt. Registration tax depends on CO2 emissions: cars under 120 g/km pay nothing, while high emitters face up to 15 per cent. Hybrids and EVs may be exempt. Imported cars come with further costs. Non-EU vehicles incur a 10 per cent import duty and 21 per cent VAT. EU cars are duty-free but may still attract VAT if considered ‘new’. Those relocating per-

Buying a car in Spain comes with key taxes and rules every driver should know.

manently with an existing vehicle may qualify for exemptions - usually with help from a gestor.

2025 offers major incentives through the MOVES III scheme, extended to yearend. Subsidies of up to €7,000 for EVs, €5,000 for plug-in hybrids, and €9,000 for electric vans are available. Low-income buyers and those scrapping old vehicles get more. A 15 per cent income tax deduction (up to €20,000) is also available on one EV, and charging point installations qualify too.

Running costs include IVTM road tax, ITV inspections, and compulsory insurance. Regional ‘Plan Renove’ schemes offer extra incentives.

The DGT’s new rule offers more freedom for number plate placement on motorcycles and light vehicles.

Credit : Daniel Vargas Peset, Shutterstock

Credit : Sergio Rojo, Shutterstock

Another Marquez win

AFTER Sunday September 14’s San Marino MotoGP win after a spectacular duel against Bezecchi, Marc Marquez is much closer to crowning himself champion this year in Japan.

The Spanish racer won the San Marino Grand Prix at Misano, taking revenge in style, winning a spectacular race against Bezzecchi, who he held at bay.

Conditions were good, with the sun drying the track after the overnight rains, with temperatures of 27 and 35 degrees Celsius on the asphalt. All the favourites started on medium tyres, front and rear.

At the start, Bezzecchi held onto his lead, while Marc again

climbed from fourth to second. Alex was third. Augusto Fernández, who was riding the new Yamaha with a V4 engine, and Rins jumped the start and were penalised by two penalty passes.

At one point, as MotoGP, pointed out on X along with a video, “Bez made a mistake.

Marques breezes past him to take the lead.”

Along with the two riders, Álex Márquez completed the podium, the only rider who can prevent his brother from becoming champion at the Japanese GP, which takes place from September 26 to 28.

If anyone thought the race was over, they

Flick slams the Federation

LAMINE YAMAL did not play Barcelona’s game against Valencia Sunday, September 14, and team officials have ‘serious doubt’ he’ll be available for Barça’s Champions League opener on Thursday, September 18.

Yamal, a top Ballon d’Or candidate, has discomfort in his pubic bone, stemming from mismanaged playing time with the Spanish national team.

“It’s a shame, because he went to the national team with some pain. He hasn’t trained at all with the national team. He took painkillers to play. They scored more than three goals in each game, but Lamine played 73 and 79 minutes in both matches. After Bulgaria, he didn’t train again. This is not taking care of the players,” Hansi Flick said.

Minutes later, far from seeking to ease the tension with the Federation, he insisted: “73 and 79 minutes. Spain has the best national team in the world. The best players in every position are outstanding. Perhaps when we talk about taking care of young players, we’re referring to things like this. This saddens me

greatly.” According to Barcelona’s doctors, Lamine Yamal finished the match against Rayo Vallecano with discomfort in his pubic bone.

However, the Federation has a different version of this story. “There are two

Hatton family pays tribute

THE family of world boxing champion Ricky Hatton, from Stockport, has paid tribute to him after he was found dead at the age of 46 in his Manchester home, just weeks before a planned comeback fight.

Hatton died on September 14. Two days later, boxing pundit Steve Bunce revealed that his body had been discovered the same day, by his manager and longtime friend, Paul ‘Speaky’ Speake. “On Saturday night, Ricky hadn’t gone to a boxing show. Speaky realised the next morning that he hadn’t turned up, so he went round to Ricky’s house and let himself in,” Bunce explained.

Speake immediately notified police, who confirmed Hatton’s death. Officers said the circumstances were not being treated as suspi-

cious, though the cause has not yet been disclosed.

Just days earlier, Hatton had shared videos on Instagram of himself training in the gym, apparently preparing for a return to the ring in two months’ time.

His family released a heartfelt statement: “He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and

loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him. Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.”

Hatton had spoken openly in the past about his struggles with mental health, drug addiction, and surviving suicide attempts.

Marc Marquez taking revenge in style.

Ricky Hatton was found dead at his Manchester home just weeks from making a comeback to the ring.

Lamine Yamal is a top favourite to take the Ballon d’Or shortly.