Mallorca escapes blackout
Islands stable amid chaos
MONDAY, April 28, a massive blackout hit the Iberian Peninsula, leaving millions without power, but the Balearic Islands dodged direct impact on their electricity supply.
However, the islands did face significant disruptions in telecommunications and air travel.
While the peninsula struggled with widespread power outages, the Balearics experienced intermittent cuts in mobile phone and data services starting early afternoon.
The disruptions, linked to severe failures on the mainland, affected all major operators, with Mallorca losing mobile reception around 6pm, restricting users to just emergency calls. Partial connectivity was restored within 20 minutes. Further interruptions occurred after 8pm and 9pm, causing problems for digital services critical for daily life, commerce, and emergency healthcare. On a brighter note, many were commenting on how teenagers were taking and playing football together, instead
of stuck looking at their phones all day.
There were major disruptions to air travel, especially flying to mainland Spain, but according to sources, there was only one cancellation to Brussels early Tuesday. Following that, all flights were back to normal.
Endesa confirmed that the islands’ power supply remained stable, thanks to the archipelago’s autonomous energy system, supported by thermal power plants on each island. However, the telecom issues called for rapid response.
President Marga Prohens led a meeting of the Territorial Protection Civil Plan’s technical committee to monitor the situation, with the plan activated at level 1 from midday. The
Directorate General of Emergencies and Interior scrambled to strengthen critical communication points to ensure coordination among police, ambulances, local councils, and civil protection volunteers just in case.
The blackout’s cause re-
mains under investigation. Red Eléctrica, the Spanish national grid, suggested a disconnection in the European interconnection via France, while Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reported a sudden loss of some 60 per cent of Spain’s demand at 12.33pm.
New street rules
PALMA’S council has approved a new civic ordinance, to take effect in May.
After months of debate since its proposal in November, the council revised contentious points, removing penalties for living in motorhomes to be in line with traffic laws and amending regulations on street artists, which had sparked significant protests.
The new rules will ensure cleaner and safer streets in and around Palma without impeding on the rights of individuals that make up an essential part of the Island’s culture and society.
The new rules do, however, target issues like late-night noise, vandalism of heritage sites, and misuse of public spaces, serving as a ‘starting point’ for civic improvement. They also close a legal gap for scooters, mandating civil liability insurance with £120,000 minimum coverage and approved safety helmets. All parties voted in favour the new local law.
Mallorca • No. 2078 • 1 - 7 May 2025
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Police checking scooter safety, Palma.
Credit: Policia Local Palma
Electricity working as usual in Mallorca.
Goodbye, 1978 urban plans!
THE Consell de Mallorca has approved the extension of its call for urban planning technical cooperation, which will enable around 30 municipalities on the island to access technical and nancial assistance to update their general urban development plans (PGOU), many of which have been in force since 1978.
with signi cant implications for the urban future of the towns.
The initiative is structured around two main lines: one for municipalities
with between 3,000 and 5,000 inhabitants whose plans are between 15 and 20 years old and which have experienced a 15 per cent population increase over the past ve years; and another aimed at municipalities with between 5,000 and 10,000 inhabitants whose urban plans date back to before 2005.
Phone scams on the rise
POLICE have seen a spike in reports of phone scams in Palma - from fake messages about your child being in trouble, to hijacked WhatsApp accounts, to fraudsters pretending to be o cial bodies like the DGT (tra c authority) or the tax o ce.
The ‘Child in Trouble’ scam
Until now, only towns with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants were eligible for this line of support, but the new call raises the threshold to 10,000, allowing municipalities such as Bunyola, Lloseta, Porreres, Sant Llorenç and Algaidawith outdated or pre-2005 planning frameworks - to apply for assistance.
The aim, according to a statement from the Consell, is to ease the burden on local councils that lack the technical resources to undertake the drafting of new plans, which are considered complex documents
You get a message claiming to be from your son or daughter, saying they’ve lost their phone and can only talk via WhatsApp from this ‘new number’. They’ve had a serious problem and urgently need you to transfer money to a bank account. Once the money’s been sent, they keep asking for more.
The account it goes to is usually in the name of a so-called ‘mule’ - someone who’s lent out their bank details to scammers in exchange for a small fee.
The WhatsApp hijack
This one’s especially sneaky. The scammer tricks you into handing over the six-digit verication code WhatsApp sends via SMS. Once they have it, they log in to your account on
their device - and you’re locked out.
Then, they message your contacts pretending to be you, often asking them to vote in a fake contest using a dodgy link.
Next thing you know, more people fall for it, and the scam spreads fast - with the fraudster asking loads of people for money via Bizum or bank transfer, using urgent sob stories.
Irregular market
THE illegal trade in appointments for immigration procedures has been operating for years in Palma de Mallorca, particularly among the migrant community settled in neighbourhoods such as Pere Garau and Son Gotleu. The inability to secure appointments through official channels drives many to resort to an illicit market that extends as far as Manacor.
The phenomenon is not limited to physical establishments.
In ordinary call shops, appointments are sold for prices ranging between €40 and €100. There, one simply states the desired procedure, pays, and waits a day or two to receive confirmation. Competition among sellers has intensified in recent months, even leading to price wars. Particularly striking is the fact that many of the appointment confirmation screenshots sent to buyers list the same email address from the call shop, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of official oversight.
The phenomenon is not limited to physical establishments. Adverts pinned to lampposts and shared via social media and WhatsApp offer these services, run by mafias using bots to monopolise all available appointments on the official system. Many migrants fall victim to scams: after paying, they discover the appointment does not exist. Often, they do not report the fraud for fear of repercussions, which only deepens their vulnerability.
The National Police are currently investigating the appearance of posters in Palma promoting these fraudulent services.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Palma
Phone scams are on the rise in Palma: catch out for these sneaky tricks.
Card numbers will vanish New tech promises safer payments
BANKS across Spain are phasing out printed numbers on cards to fight fraud. Discover how the change works and why your next card could be safer than ever.
The days of flashing your 16 digits at checkout are numbered - literally - as the world’s biggest payment giants, Visa and Mastercard, usher in the biggest shake-up in decades.
For years, your trusty credit card has done it all - online shopping, Netflix subscription, that sneaky takeaway - but it’s also been a golden ticket for fraudsters. Why? Because the printed numbers are basically an open door to your bank account.
But now, in a bold move, Spanish banks are binning those digits for good. And this isn’t just a rebrand. International banks in Spain like ING have been printing numberless cards for a while, but it looks like the change is coming to every bank.
Easier legal residency
Why Spanish bank card numbers are disappearing
Both Visa and Mastercard have confirmed the shift to ‘numberless’ cards, ditching the classic 16-digit codes that have been printed on the front of every credit card for decades.
Instead, cards will be fitted with hidden, tokenised information - smart tech that generates a unique code for each transaction. It means no visible num -
bers, no expiry date, and no CVV. In short? Nothing for hackers to steal.
According to Visa, token technology isn’t just a flashy idea. It’s already prevented over 650 million fraud attempts since 2014 and has issued more than 10 billion tokens globally. That’s a lot of digital armour.
ON May 20, 2025, Spain will implement new ‘Arraigo Social’ rules, simplifying legal residency applications for foreigners in irregular situations. The ‘arraigo social’ programme grants residence and work permits based on family ties or social integration.
Applicants must have lived continuously in Spain for two years without seeking asylum, as asylum and arraigo systems are distinct. Proof of residency can include municipal ‘padrón’ registration, employment records, bank statements, or other documents confirming presence, legally or otherwise. Consulting an immigration lawyer is advisable.
A key requirement is posing no threat to public order, security, or health, necessitating a clean criminal and police record. Applicants must prove financial stability, either through personal means or a close family member’s (eg, parent or spouse) pledge of support. Those with job offers or business plans apply via the separate arraigo socio-laboral process.
Family-based arraigo requires a parent, child, spouse, or registered partner with permanent residency, with justification for proximity. Distant relatives do not qualify. Applicants must show a monthly income of approximately €600, per the IPREM, akin to requirements for grants or social housing.
Without relatives or Spanish income, an integration effort report assessing Spanish language skills, cultural knowledge, and societal participation may bolster applications. Starting a business requires a business plan, training, and investment proof, aligning with self-employment regulations.
IMV tax alert Summer bonus
IF you’re receiving Spain’s Ingreso Mínimo Vital (IMV), there’s one thing you can’t ignore this year: your tax return. From April 2, 2025, everyone who received the benefit in 2024 must submit their tax declaration. Missing the deadline could mean losing your payments. Even if you owe no tax, you still have to file. Failing to submit by June
30 allows Social Security to suspend your IMV. It’s crucial paperwork if you rely on this income for essentials like rent or groceries. Spain’s tax agency, Hacienda, will pass your income information to Social Security, helping them decide if you still qualify for the benefit. If your income stayed below €12,600, you likely won’t pay anything, but you must still file. Good news: the IMV rose by 9 per cent for
2025, meaning a single person now receives €658.81 monthly. Filing is easy online through Agencia Tributaria or in person. Families with children should consider joint filing if both parents live together. Also, keep your address and income records updated. Remember, not filing, travelling abroad without reporting it, or changing your living situation without notice could all cost you your IMV. Don’t wait until the last minute. Sort your tax return early to stay eligible and avoid losing this vital support.
PENSIONERS in Spain have good news to celebrate. Most major banks started releasing April pension payments from April 23, with Bankinter leading, followed by CaixaBank, Santander and others. But the bigger news is the confirmed date for the summer bonus payment, which will arrive earlier than expected - in the final days of June. The summer bonus, also known as the ‘extra pay’, is one of two additional pension payments Spain’s contributory pensioners receive each year. Pensions are paid in 14 instalments annually, with extra payments in June and November, each equal to a full month’s pension. Most banks advance payments, so pensioners usually see the bonus in their accounts at the end of June. However, pensioners receiving payments for permanent disability due to workplace accidents or occupational disease won’t get a separate bonus - their extra is already distributed monthly. Regular pensioners, including those receiving retirement, widowhood, orphanhood, or non-contributory pensions, can expect the extra amount. April’s standard payments followed a consistent schedule across banks, and June’s bonus should follow the same pattern. If you’re a pensioner in Spain, check your account towards late June. The extra payment is arriving just in time to help ease summer expenses or fund a well-deserved holiday.
Banks across Spain are phasing out printed card numbers in a bid to stop fraud.
Credit: Shutterstock, Thanumporn Thongkongkaew
A romantic surprise at Mallorca 312
THOSE lucky enough to be at the Mallorca 312 OK Mobility this year witnessed a truly unforgettable moment - a romantic proposal that stole the show.
Among the 8,500 cycling enthusiasts taking part was a familiar face to many islanders: Cintia Rodríguez, the former elite gymnast who brought home numerous national titles and proudly represented Spain at the highest international level.
Now retired from gymnastics since November 2022, Cintia has channelled her competitive spirit into cycling, even racing in federated events. This year, she tackled the gruelling 225-kilometre intermediate course - a remarkable achievement in itself - but the real highlight came not at the starting line, but at the
finish at Platja de Muro.
As captured by the cameras of IB3 Televisió, Cintia’s partner, who had also ridden the race, dropped to one knee in front of the cheering crowds and presented her with an engagement ring. “Will you marry me?” he asked, his eyes locked on hers.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Cintia said
a heartfelt “yes,” and the couple embraced and kissed to the joyful applause of family, friends, and fellow cyclists. The atmosphere, already vibrant with Mallorcan spirit, erupted into cheers and the traditional cry of “¡Viva los novios!” - a fitting celebration in this island paradise where magic always seems just around the corner.
Jeff Bezos’ yacht
THE superyacht Koru, owned by Jeff Bezos, has arrived in Mallorca, making a stop on the island before setting sail for Venice, where it will host the highly anticipated wedding of Bezos and Lauren Sánchez on June 24.
Valued at $500 million, Koru is an extraordinary sailing yacht measuring 138 metres in length, with three towering 70-metre masts. Designed with a classic aesthetic, the vessel boasts two expansive wooden decks, a deep blue aluminium hull, and lines that evoke the great schooners of the past. Among its most luxurious features are a large swimming pool on the elevated aft deck, cabins capable of accommodating 18 guests, and a full-time crew of 40.
Koru was first launched in the summer of 2023, with Mallorca serving as the backdrop for Bezos and Sánchez’s engagement during an inaugural voyage that also included stops in Ibiza and the French Riviera. Now, the superyacht returns to the Mediterranean to become the centrepiece of a star-studded ceremony. Expected guests include renowned names such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Eva Longoria, Orlando Bloom, Katy Perry and members of the Trump family, including former President Donald Trump and Jared Kushner. Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez first visited Mallorca together in 2019 aboard the Rising Sun, a 138-metre yacht owned by Bezos’ friend, Hollywood producer David Geffen.
Among its most luxurious features are a large swimming pool on the elevated aft deck.
As captured by the cameras of IB3 Televisió, Cintia’s partner, who had also ridden the race, dropped to one knee.
Credit: IB3
This event is part of the 70th anniversary celebrations of SEO/ BirdLife, which begins on May 15 and has made the Balearic Islands one of its focal points.
The conservation of emblematic species has been one of SEO/BirdLife’s main focuses in the region. One of the most notable cases is the Balearic shearwater, whose population has been threatened by invasive species and accidental fishing.
Additionally, the near-threatened griffon vulture has been studied in the Serra de Tramuntana,
The Balearic Islands harbour a unique biodiversity.
Among its natural treasures are emblematic birds such as the Balearic shearwater, the griffon vulture, and the osprey.
The region also hosts important habitats for bats, marine invertebrates such as the nacra, and endemic species such as the beetle Akis bremeri.
Kanye West luxury
KANYE WEST and Bianca Censori are currently in Mallorca, embarking on a rather unique chapter of retreat and extravagant adventures. According to German newspaper Bild , the couple are staying at The Balance RehabClinic, an exclusive wellness centre offering fully personalised detox and mental health programmes.
This ultra-private retreat, which operates under the motto ‘one client at a time’, blends cutting-edge therapies like neurofeedback and brain stimulation with more traditional methods such as yoga, massages and mindful walks.
Guests are accommodated in private villas or even luxury yachts, ensuring complete discretion. With a price tag of around €150,000 per week, their retreat could total an eye-watering
€600,000 over the planned four weeks.
In the early days, Kanye supported Bianca through outpatient treatment at the avant-garde Casa Neuendorf, before she returned to the rehab centre. Meanwhile, Kanye kept himself busy by setting up an impromptu recording studio in their villa, from which his friend and producer
Digital Nas streamed live on Twitch.
Viewers caught a glimpse of a calm and collected West, sometimes clutching a Bible, as he moved in and out of the studio. During the livestream, the rapper hinted that the couple were ‘on retreat’ in Mallorca and revealed that Censori would be continuing her sessions at the centre.
Kanye kept himself busy by setting up an impromptu recording studio in their villa.
Children learning a trade
FROM business and management to fashion and footwear, gardening, baking and pastry-making, aircraft maintenance or specialised Python programming courses - there’s loads on offer.
Spain has a top-quality public training system for trades and professions. In just two years, this kind of hands-on education gets people job-ready fast. In fact, vocational training - known as FP in Spain - has had a much better job placement rate than university degrees over the past decade.
On top of adding more courses, there’ll also be an increase in student pla -
ces and teaching staff to meet growing demand. The Balearic Islands will see student capacity go from 20,000 to 21,600. To go with that, 70 new teachers will be joining the current team of 1,839 who are already working across the training programmes.
Next academic year, 36 training programmes will be available - three basic, 13 intermediate, and 20 advanced. Of those, 29 will be offered in Mallorca, five in Ibiza, one in Menorca and one in Formentera.
Alongside Spain’s wide range of university options, learning a trade might just be the perfect way to find a new place to live.
Son Bonet’s ghost planes
FIVE weathered and antique planes, including an Antonov AN-2 grounded since 2008 and four Piper and Cessna C172 planes parked since 2012, sit mysteriously abandoned at Son Bonet aerodrome in Mallorca.
Noticed in a Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE) announcement, these planes, likely tied to post-2008 financial woes like bankruptcies or unpaid fees, face an uncertain fate. If unclaimed within a year, Aena, Spain’s airport authority, may auc-
tion them or repurpose them.
The aeronautical relics, deteriorating under Mallorca’s humid skies, are more than just scrap. ‘Aluminium planes suffer outdoors, and restoring them is often costlier than their worth,’ says Guillem Company of the Asociación Amigos de la Aviación Histórica.
Yet, a new law, approved by Congress, offers hope. Unusable planes can now be donated to museums or educational institutions, with Son Bonet’s forgo-
tten fleet potentially adding healthily to a planned aviation history exhibit in Marratxi. The association, already restoring a Douglas DC-3, aims to open this display by the end of 2025. While 95 such planes across Spain owe €6.86 million in fees, Son Bonet’s case is rare. From judicial limbo to potential museum treasures, these abandoned aircraft weave a curious tale of neglect and newfound opportunities, and it seems enthusiasts and collectors have their interests piqued.
Injured hiker airlifted
A FEMALE hiker was airlifted to safety on Saturday April 26 after injuring her ankle while trekking near Puig d’en Ric, in the municipality of Andratx. The in-
cident occurred on Saturday morning, as she was ascending the forest trail in the Cala Egos area and twisted her ankle, leaving her unable to continue.
The rescue team quickly located the injured hiker near Puig d’en Ric and GREIM officers descended from a helicopter using a winch system to reach her. After administering first aid on-site, they immobilised her ankle with a vacuum splint.
The woman was then airlifted by helicopter and transferred to Son Espases Hospital for further treatment. In light of the rescue, the Guardia Civil has reiterated its advice to mountain-goers: avoid overestimating your capabilities, plan your route carefully, check weather conditions beforehand, and match the technical difficulty of the route to your personal fitness and experience.
According to the Guardia Civil, a lack of preparation and insufficient technical skill are the most common causes of accidents in the mountains.
The Asociación Amigos Aviación Histórica have been lovingly restauring this DC3.
From aircraft maintenance or specialised Python programming courses – there’s loads on offer.
John Smith
EVERY country has its own form of bureaucracy and when you grow up, whether you realise it or not, you are often likely to understand the rules and regulations.
If you don’t then you have every chance of being able to discover what’s required as you understand the language and the general way in which the rules work.
This however becomes more problematical when you move to another country, especially if you don’t speak the language and have no background of understanding the way in which that country’s bureaucracy works.
Therefore many new settlers (word deliberately used to defuse arguments about expats or immigrants) find it difficult to understand let alone know what to do.
They therefore have two stark options, firstly try to get help to wade through the requirements to deal with a whole load of complicated rules or alternatively to ignore them and get on with their lives, hoping for the best!
This second route becomes more ‘dangerous’ the older that you get and a perfect example is health care in Spain where many
Free healthcare in Spain
British settlers who are now residents following Brexit and were UK pensioners had the right to join the social health service thanks to the existing reciprocity agreement between Britain and Spain, or if younger and they are/were working then they also
had access to free health care. A number of pensioners, including myself, considered themselves healthy (if not that fit) and put off by the considerable form filling in Spanish, were content to pay the occasional private doctor for minor problems. However at the
age of 72, I found myself faced with a serious (at least for me) illness and without the funds to pay for long term investigation via the private route, realised how short sighted I had been and had to turn to the Spanish Health Service (Sistema Nacional de Sa-
lud or SNS) for help.
Luckily, a Spanish friend working with my bilingual wife offered to organise my enrolment in the health service and because I had worked in Spain and held a social security number this was arranged quite quickly.
Happily, although I had been admitted to the Costa del Sol Hospital as a ‘private patient’, I was able to present my health card and then not only was all treatment free, but I was also able to obtain prescriptions at significantly reduced cost.
Those readers who are citizens of the European Union and EAA but resident in Spain are generally able to enjoy free healthcare but are advised to check requirements for registration and any British passport holder should, if eligible, take the opportunity to register for social healthcare.
The next article will give some idea of what to expect if you visit accident and emergency or are admitted to a Spanish hospital based on my personal experience as hospitals will differ across the nation.
Spain has a very efficient free medical service.
Palma Boat Show
MARINAS DE ANDALUCIA
presents at the 41st Palma International Boat Show, held from April 30 to May 3 at Marina Moll Vell, officially opening the Mediterranean nautical season.
The association joins the Andalucian Public Agency for Tourism and Sports at Zone 1, Stand C-11, to showcase Andalucia as a premier sustainable nautical destination.
Manuel Raigón, president of Marinas de Andalucia, praised the collaboration: “We’re back to highlight the vast potential of Andalucia’s nautical sector and the quality of our marinas. We’re grateful for the agency’s support in this joint promotion.”
The plan is to position Andalucia as a global nautical hub, giving light to its top-level port services, eco-friendly infrastructure, and the region’s rich tourism, culture, and cuisine so as to attract longer yacht stays.
2024’s show drew 32,000 visitors, 271 exhi-
bitors, and over 600 boats, with 250 moored at sea. This year, the event expands with a new 5,000-square-metre area at Club de Mar, dedicated to large yachts (40-100 metres) and specialised companies in repair, maintenance, engineering, and design. A five-minute sea shuttle connects the new zone to Moll Vell.
Marinas de Andalucia’s 18 marinas and yacht clubs will use the show to champion sustainable, high-quality recreational boating, holding up the region’s role as a nautical powerhouse at this globally famed event.
Manacor spring festival
FROM May 3 to June 15, Manacor’s streets will transform into a magical spring stage for Manacor Encantat, a seasonal campaign celebrating the Rondalles mallorquines, traditional tales. Organised by the local council, the spring festival blends local culture, creativity and a little business to honour Mallorca’s heritage while bringing some spring joy to the streets.
Seven giant sculptures inspired by Rondalles characters will adorn the town centre: the Dimoni on Pas-
seig de na Camel·la, the Rei on Mecadal street, El Cavall at Plaça del rector Rubí, Bruixa Joana at Plaça de sa Bassa, the Gegant on Rambla del Rei en Jaume, Joanet de sa Gerra at Plaça de Sant Jaume, and the Àguila de la Flor Romanial at Plaça des Cós. These awe-inspiring installations set the scene for over a month of family-friendly and fun activities.
Opening on May 3, the festival features an open-air storytelling marathon and a creative picnic with painting and caricature workshops. On May 16-17, puppet theatre, an immersive escape room, and the popular Vermutada with live music to delight crowds. The inclusive Cursa Manacor Encantat race on May 17 at Plaça des Cós is a highlight, alongside local shops offering discounts from May 24-26. On June 7, a pottery market and ceramic workshops celebrate Manacor’s ancient artisan traditions, with the Estupendos Burruños brass band closing the festivities on June 14.
Taste of Sicily in Palma
HIDDEN in Palma’s lively Santa Catalina, Dadalía is a pizzeria that transforms Italian classics with a hip twist. Its Neapolitan-style dough, fermented for between 24 and 36 hours using medium-to-low-strength flours, low salt, and high hydration, bakes at 380 to 400°C in a handcrafted Stefano Ferrara stone oven. The result?
A soft, digestible crust with a crumbly edge, praised as ‘the best pizza ever’ by several diners on TripAdvisor who savoured the Puttanesca. The concise menu ensures freshness, featuring bold variations like Quattro Formaggi and Diavola, alongside fresh pasta and colourful salads.
Dadalía’s commitment to quality and Sicilian authenticity is its trademark, and through its ‘km zero’ approach, it sources top local ingredients like Agrigenus San Marzano tomatoes and anchovies, while local Mallorcan produce are every bit as
good as Italian standards. Starters, like melted cheese with honey, and desserts add to the draw.
A casual yet buzzing atmosphere brings in the crowds every night, with one family returning twice in a week. ‘The chef’s a magician,’ raved one patron, captivated by the texture of the dough.
Reservations are essential for this popular spot, where every bite celebrates tradition and innovation. For a relaxed evening of unparalleled pizza in Palma, Dadalía is a ‘must’ on anyone’s list. Dadalía can be found on Calle Sant Magí 54, Palma.
Finest pizzas on the island.
Credit: MdeA
Credit: DadalíaFB
Manacor giants 2023
Palma International Boat Show kicks off.
Credit: Ayuntamiento Manacor.
ITALY
Deleted tribute
ISRAEL’S official social media account briefly posted a condolence message following Pope Francis’s death. However, the message, which included a photo of the pope at the Western Wall, was deleted shortly after. Israeli officials later called the post a ‘mistake’, explaining it was removed due to the Pope’s past criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Pension gap
IN the first quarter of 2025, the Italian National Institute of Social Security (INPS) reported that the average monthly state pension for women was €1,011, 32 per cent lower than the €1,486 received by men. This disparity, up from 29.1 per cent in 2024, reflects ongoing gender inequalities in Italy’s pension system.
PORTUGAL
Bird sanctuary
THE Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA) launched a fundraising campaign to establish a national network of bird sanctuaries to reverse the decline of various species. These sanctuaries will collaborate with landowners to implement conservation measures such as creating ponds, and replacing invasive plants with native ones.
Ambulance crash
LAST week a speeding ambulance on route to an emergency in Espinho, Portugal, collided with two pedestrians, resulting in four injuries. Among the injured was a doctor travelling to an emergency, who sustained serious injuries. The other victims, two pedestrians, were also seriously injured. Authorities are investigating.
NORWAY
Royal relief
QUEEN Sonja of Norway has been discharged from Oslo University Hospital, after being admitted for breathing issues. She had been airlifted from a royal cabin in Sikkilsdalen. Her condition stabilised following medical tests, and she is on sick leave for a few days. This is her second hospitalisation this year.
Scholar strategy
NORWAY has introduced a 100 million kroner initiative to attract top international researchers, particularly those affected by recent US academic policy changes. The Research Council of Norway aims to bolster academic freedom and support critical research areas like climate, health, energy, and artificial intelligence.
EURO PRESS
Media lawsuit
SOME 67 French media companies representing 200 publications have filed a lawsuit against Meta in the Paris business tribunal. They allege that Meta’s dominance in digital advertising is based on unlawful practices, including extensive personal data collection and targeted advertising techniques.
FRANCE DENMARK
Royal portrait
GERMANY
Monkey business
PRINCESS Isabella of Denmark’s 18th birthday portraits were released last week, showcasing her first tiara and an elegant gown. However, one photo released of her holding an iPhone has sparked attention online as it broke royal protocol. The candid image provided a more personal glimpse of Isabella, marking her step into royal responsibilities.
Harbour hazard
COPENHAGEN’s harbour baths were temporarily closed after a sewage leak from Biofos, Denmark’s largest wastewater company. Around 12,000 cubic metres of wastewater were released into a stream flowing into the harbour, impacting local ecosystems. Authorities advised against swimming until water quality improved.
IRELAND
Compost trail
EAMON QUINN, 38, has been jailed for six months after stealing €500 worth of garden products from Vaughan’s Garden Centre in Ennis. Gardaí traced him via a trail of compost leading to his home. Described as a ‘cartoonish’ crime by his solicitor, Quinn, who suffers from health issues, pleaded guilty. Some items were recovered.
Rising tensions
IRISH hip-hop group Kneecap received death threats after their controversial Coachella performance, where they displayed messages against Israel and led ‘Free Palestine’ chants. Their manager confirmed the severity of the threats but praised the band for their bravery. Despite backlash, Kneecap has gained strong fan support.
Mail decline
A COURT in Chemnitz has sentenced three young men to three and a half years in prison each for stealing a monkey from Leipzig Zoo. The men had abducted 15-year-old Ruma, a female monkey, over Easter 2024 to take selfies and videos. They kept her in a garage for three days before eventually releasing her.
Eco-protest damage
A PROTECTIVE amphibian fence spanning several kilometres in Hamburg was deliberately destroyed. The fence was intended to safeguard amphibians during nearby construction activities. Authorities suspect radical environmental activists opposed to the motorway extension are responsible. The damage is estimated in the six-figure range.
NETHERLANDS
Gold gang
TWO additional suspects, aged 20 and 18, have been arrested in connection with the January gold heist at the Drents Museum in Assen, bringing the total to seven. They are believed to have purchased tools used in the break-in. Despite extensive searches, the stolen Romanian artifacts, including the Cotofenesti helmet, remain missing.
Pandemic debt
AS of April 2025, Dutch companies still owe €5.9 billion in deferred taxes from the Covid-19 pandemic. Approximately 120,000 businesses remain in debt, with 28 per cent currently in arrears. The tax office anticipates that some of this debt will never be recovered, estimating that €3.5 billion may ultimately not be repaid.
SWEDEN’s mail volume fell 12 per cent in 2024 to 1.05 billion items, a faster decline than previous years. The drop is driven by digitalisation and changing habits. PTS urges balancing service with cost-efficiency as revenues fall. Postnord currently delivers mail every other day and remains the sole nationwide distributor of traditional letters.
Hate speech case
A 15-YEAR-OLD boy in Landskrona, Sweden, is facing charges for inciting hatred against LGBTQI individuals after delivering a speech in an English class. Using terms like ‘abomination’, he expressed readiness to ‘take up arms for society and its customs’. Prosecutor Nina Bengtsson stated that the speech warranted legal action.
FINLAND SWEDEN
Bear boom
FINLAND’s bear population has seen a significant recovery, growing by 10-20 per cent in recent years to approximately 2,400 animals, according to the Natural Resources Institute Finland. This resurgence follows a policy change in 2022 that reduced hunting quotas, reversing a previous decline.
Budget cuts
FINLAND’s government has announced a new budget plan featuring tax cuts, including reducing the corporate tax rate from 20 to 18 per cent and cutting employee income taxes by €1.1 billion. To finance these cuts, Finland will withdraw from the state pension fund.
BELGIUM
Go-slow protest
UBER and Bolt drivers in Brussels staged a spontaneous ‘go-slow’ protest, starting from Charles Quint Avenue in Ganshoren. Between 50 and 100 drivers participated, aiming to draw attention to disparities between street and rank taxis. Their demands included access to dedicated lanes, lower commissions, and higher minimum fares.
Jet boost
BELGIUM is accelerating military investment by purchasing more F-35 fighter jets, aiming to meet NATO’s 2 per cent GDP defence spending target by 2025, four years earlier than planned. The country has already ordered 34 F-35s and plans to manufacture additional jets in Italy.
Credit: Shutterstock / Skorzewiak
A lawsuit has been filed against Meta.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Vino victory
SPAIN’S top white wine region, Rueda, reached a new export record in 2024, selling 15.8 million bottles abroad, a 5.4 per cent increase from the previous year. “This is a big achievement, especially with global wine sales dropping,” said Carlos Yllera, head of the Rueda Council.
Sleep science
RADISSON Hotel Group is rolling out ‘Revitalise Rooms’ to help guests sleep better. This new feature is being launched in partnership with Biow, a company known for its sleep science technology. The goal is to help guests rest more deeply and wake up feeling energised.
Rate relief
UK inflation fell to 2.6 per cent in March, down from 2.8 per cent in February and 3 per cent in January, boosting hopes for a Bank of England rate cut. Analysts expect a reduction from 4.5 per cent to 4.25 per cent at the policy meeting on May 8.
Basque boost
SPAIN’S Basque Country is advancing self-government with an amendment to the Basque Economic Agreement, granting control over VAT and 13 other taxes. The changes affect 20 articles and two provisions, raising the threshold for smaller taxpayers from €10m to €12m, enabling more to pay taxes locally.
Goya glory
THE Bank of Spain and the Prado Museum have collaborated to restore the portrait of José de Toro-Zambrano y Ureta, a painting by Francisco de Goya, returning this work to its original state. This collaboration is part of the agreement signed by both institutions in 2013.
AS the use of cash declines around the globe, digital payments are becoming the norm. In Spain, Bizum has made sending and receiving money easier than ever. It lets users instantly transfer small amounts between mobile phones, without needing account numbers. It’s fast, easy, and widely used across the country.
However, that has also attracted scammers. To keep users safe, Bizum has added stronger security. If it detects unusual or suspicious activity, it may temporarily block your bank account. A common reason for this is going over the platform’s transaction limits.
Many users don’t realise Bizum has set rules. There’s a minimum and maximum amount you can send per transaction, plus daily and monthly limits on how much money you can send or receive. You can receive only a certain number of
The additional amount Spain has approved in spending to meet the goal of allocating 2 per cent of GDP to security and defence in 2025.
Cashless catches Sales slump Fare fiesta
AS online dating celebrates its 30th anniversary, romance scams are seeing a sharp increase, with reports rising by 20 per cent in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year.
Barclays Bank has revealed that one in 10 adults in the UK have either been targeted by a romance scam or know someone who has. The financial losses for victims are significant, with the average amount lost in
EU success
THE EU’s employment rate reached its highest level ever by the end of 2024, while the unemployment rate also dropped to its lowest point in years.
According to new data, the EU’s employment rate reached an all-time high in the fourth quarter of 2024. During this period, eight EU member states recorded their highest employment rates since data began in 2005.
The unemployment rate fell to its lowest level in February 2025, the lowest since 2000, indicating fewer people in the EU are unemployed.
payments per month. While there’s no limit to how often you can send money, every transaction is tracked. If you go over the allowed amounts, it may trigger a block.
On top of Bizum’s rules, your bank may have its own limits too, which vary from one bank to another. If you exceed any of these limits, your
Heart hustle
transaction might be declined. Worse, your account could be temporarily frozen, not just for Bizum, but for other banking services as well.
To avoid issues, check your limits and adjust them in your banking app if needed. If you need to send a larger amount, a regular bank transfer is a safer choice.
2024 reaching £8,000. For those aged 61 and older, this figure rises to £19,000.
Flynt forward
DUTCH startup Flynt has hopes of disrupting the European light commercial vehicle market with its first fully electric van.
The vehicle is set to launch in 2026.
The van, currently called the eLCV, is designed for urban and regional use as well as last-mile deliveries. It’s expected to offer a range of up to 500 kilometres on a single charge and promises a low total cost of ownership.
Flynt has confirmed that the vehicle will be efficient, carry a high payload, and deliver a modern, digital driving experience, all within a durable and flexible design.
Adding to its appeal, the model can also be configured as a camper van.
AIR EUROPA has launched a new discount campaign in a bid to strengthen its position in the international long-haul market. The Spanish airline is offering tickets to destinations in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America from €249 one-way and to the US from €226. The promotion, valid until May 4, includes flights until November 30. It also includes reduced prices for domestic and European routes, with fares starting at €25 between mainland cities and €29 to other destinations in Europe and Asia.
Men make up a larger share of the volume (60 per cent) of reported scams.
Three-quarters of consumers believe tech companies should take stronger action to stop romance scammers on their platforms. Romance scams typically occur when fraudsters build a fake romantic relationship to gain their victims’ trust.
Skyward growth
BRUSSELS Airport has announced a major upgrade to its infrastructure, with a series of projects planned over the next few years. These include building a new intermodal transport hub, expanding both the arrivals and departures areas, adding a new hotel, creating a redesigned drop-off zone, and developing a green boulevard with a park.
This is the airport’s biggest investment since the 1990s.
The expansion is part of preparations for growing numbers of passengers.
The full project is expected to be finished by 2032.
The focus is on improving travel quality and sustainability while staying in line with environmental guidelines.
FRENCH sports retailer Decathlon will shut down 25 stores across France in May as part of a major restructuring.
The move comes after a 15.4 per cent drop in global profits last year. Stores in both big cities like Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, and Nantes, as well as smaller towns like Arras, will be affected.
The company says the closures are due to changing shopping habits, with more customers choosing online shopping, express delivery, and click & collect services.
THE six largest banks in Spain, Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank, Sabadell, Bankinter, and Unicaja Banco, earned a combined €7.26 billion in the first quarter of 2025. This figure is an impressive 8.7 per cent increase from the same period last year. This growth came despite a special tax on banks and recent interest rate cuts. Even so, they managed to improve their profit margins, according to early market estimates.
Romance scams are seeing a sharp increase. Image: Kaspars
Bizum has recently added stronger security.
3I Group 4.209,65 4.215,00 4.200,00 13,35K
Group 3.218,0 3.234,0 3.212,0 9,58K Airtel Africa 166,50 166,90 166,10 50,33K
American 2.155,5 2.160,5 2.148,5 37,01K
1.709,50 1.710,00 1.696,50 13,93K
Group 4.120,0 4.137,0 4.110,0 77,36K
British Foods 2.229,0 2.240,0 2.224,0 23,65K
812,20
293,40 294,28 291,25 1,9M
Redrow 454,80 456,22 454,30 172,72K
Beazley 892,75 896,00 890,00 57,3K
Berkeley 4.072,0 4.102,0 4.072,0 11,12K
BP 365,75 367,77 365,55 1,09M
British American Tobacco 3.157,0 3.166,0 3.151,0 55,64K
Group 168,70 168,85 167,65 344,2K
2.308,0 2.318,0 2.286,0 37,62K
158,30 158,85 157,05 728,48K
HBC AG 3.808,0 3.818,0 3.800,0 11,16K
2.465,00 2.471,00 2.458,00 58,56K
Group 258,20 258,80 256,60 41,46K
4.828,0 4.848,0 4.824,0 7,03K
Euro
EUR/GBP: Up from £0.83 to £0.85
EUR/USD: Up from $1.08 to $1.13
The euro surged higher over the past month, with the common currency enjoying its strong negative correlation with the collapsing US dollar.
EUR was also buoyed by hopes for an EU-US trade deal, along with optimism after Germany’s leading political parties agreed to form coalition.
The European Central Bank’s (ECB) interest rate decision failed to derail the euro’s rally, even though ECB President Christine Lagarde warned of risks to growth. Amid the USD decline and global uncertainty, the euro’s safe and stable status made it an attractive option.
Looking forward, the euro could face headwinds in the month ahead if EU-US trade tensions flare up again.
Currency outlook: US dollar collapses amid mounting confidence crisis, Euro rallies on USD weakness
Otherwise, a continued unwinding of USD could support EUR.
Pound
GBP/EUR: Down from €1.19 to €1.17
GBP/USD: Up from $1.29 to $1.33
The pound initially found success over the past month amid hopes that the UK would be able to avoid Donald Trump’s tariffs. However, the UK was una-
ble to secure a tariff exemption, which undermined the pound and saw it trim earlier gains.
GBP then faced more pressure as markets increased their expectations for Bank of England (BoE) interest rate cuts this year, amid signs of cooling inflation, slowing economic activity, and the potential disinflationary impact of US tariffs on the UK economy. Looking ahead, the BoE’s interest rate decision is in focus.
If the bank cuts rates and indicates that it could cut further in the future, Sterling may slide.
US dollar
USD/GBP: Down from £0.77 to £0.75
USD/EUR: Down from €0.92 to €0.88
The US dollar cratered over the past month as Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs fuelled fears of a US recession.
Investors were also unnerved by the way in which the
White House calculated the tariffs, along with Trump’s calls for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to cut interest rates – despite fears tariffs could push up inflation.
The result has been a growing confidence crisis in the US dollar, with the American currency collapsing to a three-year low.
We may see the US dollar confidence crisis continue, particularly if trade tensions flare, the US economy shows signs of weakness, or Trump continues to pressure the Fed. However, the outlook for USD is increasingly uncertain.
Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.
The EUR was buoyed by hopes for an EU-US trade deal.
Going with the flow
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
I NEVER initially chose to be a nonconformist. Sitting here at the ripe old age of 85 and looking back over decisions made as a highly disciplined young mortal (Dad was ex-army!) it soon became painfully obvious that choosing to remain within society as an ‘anti-social’ was at the very least going to be difficult and certainly not make me the winner of many popularity contests. Of course, at the outset you don’t know who, or even what you are. As a new-fangled soul manifestation you simply go with the flow.
There are also no set beginnings to non-conformity, it is something that just happens. There does however become a point when the choice has to be made; you either drop out, or stay in. Well, I (finally) chose to stay in. Although, through my spiritual leanings I was offered a host of escapes, ie, Hippie communes, becoming a Tibetan monk, taking the Junkie
route, membership of numerous cults, including the highly dangerous Scientology and all of its perilous offshoots, specifically designed to control the weak, I realised that to have any chance of influencing events in a society I already basically didn’t agree with, I simply had to stay a part of it. Politics would have been an obvious choice I suppose, but unfortunately, in my day to enter into the political arena, you had to either be a total conformist, a complete hypocrite, or an old boy with connections (no change there then!) In my early teens
I had already been fortunate enough to meet my future wife and was actually looking forward to a normal loving relationship and hopefully a new family.
I had always loved the smell of greasepaint and the creation of songs – so to remain a true member of society I chose Showbiz. Ha!
The most hypocritical occupation of them all.
Typical examples of this profession that I have never been able to abide are the egotistical celebrities who, followed by cameras and han-
gers on, spend their non creative breaks wandering between mud huts, trying to make us all feel bad and responsible for the ills of the world, before scurrying back to their existence of cosseted grandeur and luxury; the same starry-eyed bunch who attempt to deliver political philosophy when collecting their bronze statues of dramatised splendour. For heaven’s sake give us all a break and stick to your lives of fantasy, where most exhibitionists belong. Some 60 years ago, the realisation that if you really wanted to deliver and receive widespread opinions on your points of view then writing was by far the most expedient, led me to subsequently pursue it throughout a long life that has so far been almost yo yo like. One thing non conformity does achieve however is a relentless thickening of the skin. So, keep those letters coming, Doncha just love the hackles raising a bit? Keeps the ol grey matter ticking over - that’s fer sure.
Keep the Faith Love Leapy Lee leapylee2002@gmail.com
Publisher’s Comment
AT Euro Weekly News , we have always believed that our greatest strength lies in our community - in the voices of real people, real businesses, and real families.
The front page article is not just an expression of one person’s anger and frustration. It is a call to all - the hard-working entrepreneurs, the carers, the dreamers, the survivors - to stand together and demand better from those who claim to lead us.
We invite our readers, business owners, and community leaders to share their own experiences, their concerns, and their hopes for the future. Your stories matter. Your voices deserve to be heard.
If you, like us, believe it is time for truth, accountability, and action, we encourage you to write to us at letters@euroweeklynews.com or join the conversation across our platforms.
Let’s not stay silent.
Let’s speak - and act - together.
INTERVIEW
Ovidiu Chiriac - Speaking European
“I’VE been living in Spain for 23 years,” he says, adding that “I spent the longest time in Burgos.”
But a year and a half ago, he decided to relocate. “I moved here [Manilva] to be closer to family,” he explains.
family again has also made a big difference.
Now working in renovations and general home maintenance, Ovidiu says his job keeps him busy with “both interior and exterior” work. Al though he’s settled in, he does miss some aspects of life back home. “The working conditions and the salary” in Romania, he says, were better in some respects.
That said, Spain has plenty to offer. “I like the climate and the culture,” Ovidiu shares, highlighting two things that often top the list for many expats who move to Spain. Being surrounded by
Integration hasn’t been a problem – Ovidiu has friends “from different nationalities,” and while learning Spanish came with its challenges, it didn’t take long to overcome them. “… working all the time with Spanish people made it much easier and quicker to learn.”
Interestingly, both Spanish and Romanian are part of a family of languages known as ‘romance languages’ – their Latin origin means they have a lot of similarities.
For those in the area looking for maintenance and renovation work to be done, you can WhatsApp Ovidiu on +34 667 277 785 or find him on Facebook.
Ovidiu likes the climate and the culture.
Over two decades ago, Ovidiu made the leap from Romania to Spain.
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Dublin’s empty offices
THOUSANDS of empty commercial properties across Ireland could be turned into housing.
But outdated planning laws are blocking conversions that have already helped ease shortages in other European cities.
‘As of 2024, more than 5,700 vacant commercial properties were sitting idle across Ireland,’ reports The Irish Times.
These properties are in central, well-connected areas that are close to jobs, transport, and services, making them prime candidates for residential conversions. Yet many of them remain empty.
The former Technological University Dublin office was converted in 2023 into 110 high-quality rental units and is now fully occupied. It includes shared amenities like co-working areas and a gym.
The main barrier isn’t money or interest
- it’s the planning system. ‘Planning regulations are still built around traditional housing types,’ The Irish Times explains, noting that requirements such as dual-aspect windows and private balconies often don’t suit existing office layouts.
This challenge isn’t unique to Dublin.
“Galway’s commercial vacancy rate is 18.8 per cent, and Ireland’s national rate has reached a record 14.5 per cent,” according to GeoDirectory figures cited in the Galway Advertiser.
The report found that ‘there were 30,635 vacant commercial units across the country in December last year,’ with Sligo and Donegal topping the list.
With other cities like Madrid, Amsterdam, and Berlin already embracing co-living and build-to-rent schemes, Ireland risks falling further behind.
DeLorean delight
FOUR decades after Back to the Future hit cinemas in 1985, only 303 DeLorean cars are still registered for use on UK roads. The car, made famous by its starring role as a time machine in the film, has become increasingly rare.
To mark the anniversary of the cult classic, online auction site Collecting Cars obtained the latest figures from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. Alongside the 303 road-worthy DeLoreans, another 114 are registered as off-road, meaning they’re most likely tucked away in garages.
The DeLorean DMC-12 was originally produced in Dunmurry, Northern Ireland, with around 9,000 built between 1981 and 1982. The company went bust not long after, and the car’s short
production run has helped turn it into a prized collector’s item.
In the last six years, Collecting Cars has only handled the sale of two DeLoreans. They estimate that a fully restored one could now fetch up to £80,000. Back in 1981, you could’ve picked one up for about £18,000.
Edward Lovett, CEO of Collecting Cars, said a mix of nostalgia, ra -
Bottle bonanza
WHILE walking along the shore of a quiet island in the Bahamas, two brothers stumbled across a surprising find: a message in a bottle that had been drifting in the sea for nearly 50 years.
Clint Buffington, a seasoned beachcomber with a knack for finding messages in bottles, was exploring the coastline with his brother, Evan, when the discovery was made. Clint recalled the moment his walkie-talkie came to life with Evan’s excited voice, telling him he had found something unbelievable.
Inside an old Pepsi bottle was a note written in 1976 by Peter R Thompson, who was 14 years old at the time and a student at Pentucket Regional Junior High School in West Newbury, Massachusetts, USA. The message, written as
remembers enjoying the class it came from. Now in his 60s, he was surprised and amused to learn about the message’s journey through time.
part of an oceanography class project, said it would be dropped into the sea by the Coast Guard.
The Buffingtons managed to track down Thompson, who said he doesn’t remember writing the message, but
“It’s incredible, it’s been almost 50 years. Definitely unexpected,” Thompson said.
Clint Buffington hopes to meet Thompson in person and return the message that travelled through decades and tides to resurface on a faraway shore.
May Day Celebrations
witty, topical verses (maios) accompanied by the clack of sticks. In Lugo, it was once traditional to reward singers with chestnuts or hazelnuts (no cash, just kernels!).
rity, and the enduring love for the Back to the Future films has driven prices up, though he added, the real cars sadly don’t fly.
The DeLorean’s most iconic moment came at the end of the first film, when Doc Brown, played by Christopher Lloyd, famously said: “Where we’re going, we don’t need roads,” just before the car soared into the sky.
WHILE many associate May Day with placards and picket lines, its roots stretch far deeper and are considerably more cheerful. Long before workers demanded an eight-hour day, May Day was a joyful European festival marking the start of summer, celebrated on May 1. In the UK, this meant dancing round the Maypole, crowning a May Queen (sometimes a May King) and ‘bringing in the May’ with garlands and greenery.
Meanwhile in Spain, May Day, known as Los Mayos (‘the Mays’), blossoms in equally fascinating ways, especially in regions like Galicia.
There, the ‘Fiesta de los Mayos’ with Celtic origins centres around decorated trees or sculptures. Locals parade around them singing
Nowadays, this has become a lively competition, with prizes for the most inventive songs and elaborate displays. Think village fête with a poetic twist.
So, whether you’re partial to a bit of Morris dancing or intrigued by musical chestnut-perks, May Day has plenty to offer beyond the rallies and banners.
It’s a celebration of creativity, community and (hopefully) warmer weather to make us all feel just a little bit better - with the traditional start of summer.
Finally, thanks for all emails to my website! So pleased you enjoy my column - and novels!
Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
Image: RAMAN SHAUNIA / Shutterstock.com
Back to the Future hit cinemas in 1985.
Empty offices could provide more housing.
Credit: Max Vakhtbovycn, Pexels
Costa del Sol Hardship into hope
IN June, as she nears her 60th birthday, Estepona resident Caroline Sice will take on a six-day, 70 km trek across the Pyrenees along the French Camino de Santiago, reaching 1,430m high, with the aim to raise funds for AECC Estepona and Collective Calling. In 2020, Caroline was diagnosed with breast cancer, enduring chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy. Declared cancer-free in 2021, she faced ongoing challenges, including heart damage and chronic joint pain. AECC Estepona provides vital support and resurces. Caroline credits their team for giving her strength during her darkest days. Collective Calling, a local charity with a new Estepona shop, supports the homeless locally and protects vulnerable children in Tanzania.
Caroline invites sponsorship for her Camino due to start on May 12, with donations split between the charities. Supporters can donate via AECC Estepona (contraelcancer.es) or Collective Calling (collectivecalling.org), or by her GoFundMe page.
Axarquia
Axarquia’s global recognition
THREE beaches in Nerja have been ranked among the 20 most beautiful in Andalucia by National Geographic. Calahonda Beach, located in the centre of Nerja near Balcon de Europa, achieved an impressive fourth place. Maro Beach took the 11th place in National Geographic’s rankings, while Burriana Beach was placed at 20th place. Both of them were praised for their natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. Another beach from Axarquia also made it into the top 20. Bajamar, from Velez-Malaga, took the 19th place. Its low occupancy rate makes Bajamar perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the more crowded beaches in the area. Additionally, it is one of the beaches in Axarquia where nude bathing is permitted. The inclusion of four Axarquia beaches in the rankings of National Geographic is a source of pride for the region. In fact, local authorities in Nerja stated that such accolades serve as further motivation to continue enhancing the town’s policies for beach protection and visitor services, due to the crucial role tourism plays in the local economy.
Costa Blanca North Costa Blanca boom
THE Tourism sector had hoped that Easter would, as predicted, bring a surge of tourists to the Marina Alta and Baja, and according to the latest data from Hosbec, Hotel And Tourism Business Association of the Valencian Community, their hopes were answered. An astronomical number of tourists arrived in the Costa Blanca North over the Easter period. Benidorm was expected to hit high occupancy numbers, but what no one predicted was that Gandia would match the tourism giant. The Valencian Community as a whole reached 85 percent of its tourism capacity. International news has been rife for months with stories of how tourists were not welcome at the coasts in the Marina Alta and Baja regions, but if anything disproves these comments, it is the sheer numbers of tourists that came this Easter holidays to the region. In fact, hotel occupancies in the Alicante, Costa Blanca region reached 89.1 per cent occupancy according to Hosbec’s data, beating the major city of Valencia and the Castellon region.
Costa Blanca South Global buyers
FOR the second year in a row, around 29 per cent of all property sales on the Costa Blanca were made by foreign buyers, confirming the region’s popularity among international clients.
These figures come from the 2024 Yearbook of Real Estate Registry Statistics. The report shows that more than 103,515 properties were sold in the Valencian region in 2024, with nearly 30,000 bought by foreigners. This is the highest number ever recorded, surpassing the 27,900 foreign purchases made in 2023.
Interest in the Costa Blanca from international buyers has been strong for many years. However, there was a noticeable increase two years ago when foreign sales rose from just under 27 per cent to about 29 per cent, and this level has remained stable for a second year.
Within the region itself, Alicante stands out with nearly 44 per cent of all its property sales going to foreigners.
Almeria
Happy place
MOJACAR has been ranked as one of the top 10 happiest towns in Spain. The 2025 ‘Top 39 Happiest Towns in Spain’ list, compiled by YouGov and Azucarera, places Mojacar in eighth place, a jump of three spots from last year’s 11th position. The ranking considered several factors such as climate, local community, culture, natural surroundings, and food. Mojacar stands out for its stunning views, whitewashed buildings, and warm Mediterranean climate, offering more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year and mild temperatures around 20°C. This makes the town a popular place to live and visit year-round.
Mojacar is also known for its friendly and welcoming residents. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with famous festivals like the Moors and Christians celebration and the ‘Noche de las Velas’ (Candlelit Night), which draw both locals and tourists. The area’s beautiful beaches and variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to water sports, contribute to a high quality of life.
Costa Calida
Visitors choose Murcia
WHILE some of Spain’s busiest tourist regions saw a drop in visitor numbers this year, Murcia quietly reached a new record. Between January and March 2025, more than 295,000 people stayed in hotels across the region, the highest figure ever recorded for the first quarter of the year.
It’s not just about the numbers. Many travellers are now looking for quieter, more affordable places to unwind, and Murcia is ticking all the right boxes. With mild winters, beautiful beaches, and quaint towns that feel more authentic than overcrowded hotspots, the region is starting to attract more attention, especially from international visitors, whose numbers rose by more than 10 per cent compared to early 2024.
Visitors are also staying slightly longer, with the average hotel stay rising to 2.41 days. Hotel earnings are up too, showing that this quiet corner of Spain is becoming a smart choice for holidaymakers and a boost for the local economy.
PETS
Does your bird need a pet-sitter?
SULTAN is a chatty bird and always like company. He moves around this cage trying to attract your attention, and always gets excited when a new pet-sitter comes in to care for him. It’s a new person to chat to. And it means that when HouseSitMatch sitters move in he has new playmates for the duration of their stay.
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If you’re planning travel this year, join now.
Get organised today:
1. Register as a house-sitter or a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com
2. Join for as little as £89 / €99 per year
3. Create a profile with photos
4. Sitters apply for the available housesits, you hold a video interview via the site and match!
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Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then house-sitters build a profile and homeowners build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.
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All sitters are checked and referenced before they can approach available ‘sits’, so I found it easy to select the person based on their likelihood of getting on with my pet and our home location.
Teresa, Pet owner
POLYDACTYL cats are born with more toes than the usual number - typically six or more on each paw instead of the usual five on the front and four on the back. This charming genetic quirk, caused by a harmless mutation, gives these cats their nickname: ‘Hemingway cats’, thanks to the writer Ernest Hemingway, who famously kept dozens at his home in Key West.
The extra toes often look like tiny thumbs, giving the cat a mitten-like appearance. While it might seem unusual, polydactylism doesn’t cause any pain or health issues. In fact, some believe these cats have better balance and climbing ability due to their wider paws, especially in snowy or rugged environments.
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A proper fit
A DOG’S collar might seem like a simple accessory, but if not fi tted correctly, it can lead to a range of health and behavioural issues. One common problem is a collar that’s too tight, which can cause skin irritation, fur loss, or even breathing diffi culties in extreme cases. A tight collar can also restrict neck movement and put pressure on the trachea, especially in smaller breeds.
Over time, a poorly fi tted collar can affect posture and lead to muscular tension. If the collar is too loose, however, your dog could slip out and risk injury or getting lost. Constant rubbing from the collar may also result in sores, while incorrect po-
Polydactyl cats can be found in many breeds and colours, and their extra digits make them stand out. These cats are often seen as lucky or special by their owners, with their oversized paws adding even more charm to an already endearing companion. They’re proof that a little extra goes a long way.
‘Windows
to Wellness’
Keep up with your pet’s vaccines, deworming, and fl ea and tick control. Fleas and ticks can spread diseases to pets and people.
Sultan loves to chat to people, and petsitters can be very attentive…
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Piqué’s tweet becomes sensation
BARCELONA lifted the Copa del Rey trophy after a thrilling 3-2 extra-time victory over arch-rivals Real Madrid at La Cartuja Stadium.
It was a night to remember for the blaugrana team, with Jules Koundé scoring the decisive goal in the 116th minute. Composed and resilient, Barcelona took the lead early with Pedri’s strike. Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni turned the game for Madrid with two quick goals, but Ferran Torres’ equa lizer forced extra time.
Thanks to Koundé’s decisive blow, Hansi Flick’s team claimed their first silverware of the season after a tense and heated encounter.
Following the final whist le, Barcelona legend Ge rard Piqué posted a tweet that quickly went viral: “In the end, the good guys always win.”
The former
Barça defender’s post racked up nearly four million views and was shared more than 32,000 times, winning once more the hearts of Barcelona fans.
The 38-year-old’s remark also delivered a sharp jab at Los Blancos’ long-standing persecution complex regarding refereeing decisions.
Real Madrid finished the Sevilla night in disgrace, with three players sent off after the final whistle. Antonio Rüdiger now faces a lengthy ban for throwing ice at the referee, while Jude Bellingham’s frustrations had already boiled over before the se-
Piqué, a true icon of the club, made 616 appearances for Barcelona between 2008 and 2022. During his career, he won nine La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey trophies, and three UEFA Champions League
Gerard Piqué.