The ice has thawed
THE ice has finally thawed. Wayne and Gary are on good terms, downing shots together, smiling, chatting and having a great time. About time. It’s been nearly two decades of cold, solid ice between them.
Wayne Lineker’s daughter Tia has shared pictures from her lavish wedding in Mallorca as his brother Gary looks on, two months after the warring siblings reunited following a 17-year feud.
Gary has attended the wedding of his niece Tia in a further sign that his formerly fraught relationship with Wayne is improving following their 17-year feud. This year, they shared some good times at another family wedding as well.
But first, let’s talk about Tia. She shared the first glimpse of her lavish Mallorca wedding on Ins-
tagram (@tialineker) on Wednesday, August 13, as she tied the knot with husband Harry Agombar.
Former Match of the Day host Gary was there with guests as Tia walked
down the aisle arm in arm with her father.
That was the second wedding the Lineker brothers attended together this year. They were both at Gary’s son Harry’s nuptials in Ibiza earlier
this summer.
The brothers’ feud began when Wayne told Gary he did not sympathise with his former wife Danielle Bux. That iced their relationship for 17 years.
Marla Maples in Palma
FORMER Donald Trump’s wife, Marla Maples, whose daughter Ti any is also the US president’s, loves Palma. She has been spotted in the island’s capital on many occasions, the last being last week.
Ms Maples travelled to Mallorca for the rst time when her former husband was the 45th president of the United States; She de-
cided to visit again now that the ex is the 47th in time to refresh her memory.
Her objective was clear and simple: to stay away from the frustration of a less-than-successful dramatic career. The quasi- rst lady ts perfectly into the feminine milieu, a clone of the man who monopolises the planet.
WELSH comedian and presenter Gri Rhys Jones skippered his classic sailing yacht, Argyll, on Sunday, August 17, and competed in the Balearic Classic Sailing Regatta, a thrilling showcase of maritime heritage and skill.
Mr Jones enjoyed the thrill of high winds in deep waters and skilled sailing while competing in the event.
The regatta, a highlight of Mallorca’s sailing calendar, draws enthusiasts and spectators to witness beautifully restored vintage yachts racing across the sparkling waters of the bay. Jones, known for his wit and television presence, is no stranger to the seas, bringing passion and expertise to the competition.
The event celebrates the timeless elegance of classic yachts, blending tradition with competitive spirit. Spectators relished a stunning display of historic vessels o Palma’s coast.
Yearly, the regatta not only highlights exceptional craftsmanship but also fosters a deep appreciation for maritime history. This year, Celeste di Mare won rst prize, followed by the Murcian skippers of the Estrella de Viento.
Mallorca • No. 2094 • 21 - 27 Aug 2025
The Welsh comedian took part in the Balearic Classic Sailing Regatta in Palma. He enjoyed the thrill but not the prize.
Wayne Lineker’s daughter celebrated a lavish wedding in Mallorca about 10 days ago.
Marla Maples enjoys her visits to Palma since at least 2019, as can be seen in the photo.
A RESTAURANT themed around Elvis’s America is hosting food challenges with burgers, hot dogs, and chicken wings in massive quantities. The establishment has organised several days for challenges, the next one being Friday, August 23.
When you walk through the door of Betty & Sam, in the
The 2kg burger challenge
heart of Arenal, you feel like you’ve boarded a time machine headed straight to 1950s America.
The restaurant has become not only a meeting point for those nostalgic for a golden age of film and music, but also a
must-visit for lovers of American food in its most outrageous form: generous hamburgers, hot dogs, milkshakes with impossible flavours, wings, nachos, and classic-style fries.
Betty & Sam’s proposal has gone viral in part thanks to its
SKYLEADER SPAIN, a Mallorcan aeronautical company, is organising a humanitarian aid flight to support communities devastated by wildfires across the Iberian Peninsula.
now-famous Burger Challenge. “The restaurant’s concept is that of an American diner with burgers, milkshakes, and fries,” said José Palma, marketing director of HM Hoteles. He said the idea was inspired by the TV show Carnivorous
Chronicles.
“The production team is a big fan of the show, so we decided to create a five-meat burger with fries weighing approximately two and a half kilos,” Palma said.
The current record is held by Alejandro Ruíz García, who ate the whole thing in just nine minutes.
A helping hand
The initiative follows days of intense blazes that have left many areas in urgent need of supplies.
“I saw on the news this Tuesday morning that there was a need for necessities, and I thought I’d send canned food and face masks,” said Skyleader Spain’s CEO, highlighting the company’s commitment to aiding those in crisis.
The effort is in collaboration with Prefabri -
cats Riutort. The flight, scheduled for Monday, August 26, will depart from Son Bonet airfield in Mallorca, where Skyleader Spain is based. “Last year, with DANA of Valencia, they
carried out similar operations here in Son Bonet,” the company manager noted, referencing their experience in disaster relief.
A Cirrus light aircraft will transport nearly
400 kilos of essential goods to a location near the hardest-hit villages. Volunteers can contribute by delivering food and critical items to The Helicopter Centre’s offices at Son Bonet airfield. Those interested in supporting the initiative should contact ivan@ skyleaderspain.com to arrange delivery before the 26th.
This humanitarian mission underscores Mallorca’s solidarité with fire-affected regions, providing critical aid to communities grappling with the aftermath of one of Spain’s worst wildfire seasons, exacerbated by extreme heat and climate challenges.
Cheapest petrol stations
re the cost is between €1,429 and €1,439. And then there’s Plenergy in Marratxi for just
At the other end of the scale, Menorca tops the price charts. A CEPSA in Mahon sells petrol for €1.849 per litre.
Cepsa is the most expensive,
A Galp in Es Mercadal ranks fifth at €1.719.
FACUA says Balearic prices range from €1.408 to €1.849. The group also compared diesel prices. The cheapest is Just Fuel in Felanitx at €1.359. Then, Autonetoil in Palma,
Skyleader Spain is committed to helping those in need. Now, victims of the wildfires. Previously, to those affected by DANA in Valencia.
Credit: Skyleader Spain website
Widow pensions Spain
Make sure you follow the rules
SPAIN has tightened the rules around widow’s pensions, its second-largest benefit after retirement, with officials running stricter checks, demanding new proof, and even withdrawing payments where conditions aren’t met. The average payout stands at €874 a month, but Social Security’s message is clear: any change in civil status, income, or cohabitation must be reported immediately or recipients risk sanctions and back-payments.
The biggest pitfalls include remarrying or registering a new civil partnership (pareja de hecho), living with a new partner without proper registration, or failing to prove economic dependence on the deceased spouse where required. Advisors are reporting a rise in cases of suspended pensions while beneficiaries scramble to provide documents such as residency certificates, income statements, or registry entries. Authorities warn that if irregularities are found, they have the power to demand repayment of wrongly received sums.
The rules also cover new living arrangements. You can form a household with a new partner and still keep your widow’s pension, but two strict income tests apply. First, the pension must represent at least 75 per cent of your annual income. Second, the combined household income cannot exceed twice the Salario Mínimo Interprofesional (SMI). With the current average payout at €874 per month, claimants are urged to do the maths for their situation and keep proof to hand.
The bottom line: Spain’s clampdown isn’t about trapping be-
neficiaries but ensuring rules are followed. Staying compliant means reporting any changes quickly, keeping documentation organised, and knowing the income thresholds. Those who act proactively can safeguard their widow’s pension, but failing to disclose changes could lead to suspensions, clawbacks, or even permanent loss of entitlement.
Widow’s-pension controls: beneficiaries must report marriages, new partnerships or income changes quickly.
Cash limits
A MAJOR Spanish supermarket chain has responded to frequent customer questions about payment rules by providing clarity on legal limits and store policies through its official online customer service channel.
Spanish law sets a cash payment cap at €999.99, meaning any purchase reaching or exceeding €1,000 must be paid entirely by bank card. The retailer accepts cards with Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro symbols, but American Express is not permitted due to charges the card company imposes on the retailer. Also, for those who have broken into their piggy bank or raided the sofa for loose change under the cushions, only up to 50 coins can be used per transaction, regardless of denomination, following Spanish law.
Mercadona, the supermarket chain led by Juan Roig, also clarified that it does not accept discount coupons or vouchers, nor payment methods such as luncheon vouchers or gourmet cheques, which are restricted to hospitality establishments. This policy is particularly relevant in tourist areas, which may catch some customers off guard.
For international visitors, Mercadona explained that tourists eligible for VAT refunds can process them through the company’s Customer Invoice page online. They must present a passport or foreign residency document, register before payment, and show it at the checkout.
The clarifications are meant to improve and streamline the shopping experience and ensure compliance with Spanish regulations, especially for customers in high-traffic tourist regions.
Grandchildren Law deadline SEPE warning
Application window closes October 22
SPAIN’S Democratic Memory Law, widely known as the Grandchildren Law, is entering its final stretch, with the eligibility window closing on October 22. This provision grants Spanish nationality to descendants of Spaniards, and officials stress that the only way to secure
Creating a usuario consular (consular user) profile before the deadline will lock in your place in the queue, even if your actual appointment is scheduled after the law expires. Miss that date, and your opportunity is gone.
The urgency is real - demand is massive. In Ar-
around 290,000 applications have already been processed from an estimated 1.5 million potential candidates, while global submissions are nearing one million. Consulates like Buenos Aires handle roughly 10,000 appointments a month, meaning delays are inevitable but participation is still within reach if you register on time.
The law applies to grandchildren of Spaniards regardless of whether their ancestors later acquired another nationality, children of those who gain citizenship through this law, and certain great-grandchildren where the grandchild parent has died without claiming. Each case depends on proper documentation, with Spain maintaining its commitment to process every file submitted in time. Applicants must build a chain of official records linking them to their Spanish ancestortypically birth, marriage, and death certificates for each generation, many of which must be recently issued, apostilled, and translated if obtained outside Spain.
SPAIN’S public employment service (SEPE) has issued a clear warning to unemployment benefit claimants: check that your phone number, email and postal address are correct, or risk payment delays, missed appointments and even suspension of your benefits. A single wrong digit or outdated address can block important messages and lead to sanctions. SEPE stresses that being reachable is part of the rules for receiving payments, and mismatches between their records and those of your regional employment office can cause further problems.
The agency uses your contact details to send appointment notifications, compliance reminders and payment updates. If those messages bounce or you fail to respond, SEPE assumes non-compliance, not lack of awareness. That’s why the advice is urgent: update your details as soon as you move or change numbers.
Updating is straightforward. You can check your expediente (benefit file) online or via your last SEPE letter to see what contact details are on record. Report any changes immediately, ideally before moving or activating a new number. Proof of address - such as a rental contract, padrón certificate or recent bill - is usually required if you’ve moved. Keep your details consistent with both SEPE and your regional employment service to avoid mismatches. Saving a screenshot or receipt of your update can serve as proof if issues arise later. Failing to update can trigger sanctions under Spain’s employment law.
Credit : fizkes, Shutterstock
Thousands of descendants applying for citizenship under Spain’s ‘Grandchildren Law’ ahead of the October deadline.
PALMA DE MALLORCA, the sea is more than a backdropit’s the heart of Balearic identity, history, and life. Yet, this fragile ecosystem needs protection.
Palma Aquarium and its Foundation have launched the ‘Som de la Mar’ campaign to inspire the local community to safeguard marine biodiversity.
This movement, rooted in Palma, emphasises education, protection, and conservation to ensure the sea’s vitality for future generations.
‘Som de la Mar’ is a call to action, fostering a deeper connection between Palma’s residents and their marine environment.
‘Som de la Mar’
IN the Bay of Pollença and o the beautiful Palma beaches, there’s an increasingly heard sound that has become a sign of joy: ‘Pirí-pirí!’
That cry, shouted from yachts, motorboats, and sailboats , isn’t a nautical whim, but a call on the rst cocktail boat to sail around Mallorca. Behind that picturesque name are Mar Margarit Bauzà and Ferran Perman-
“The sea is part of our identity and a responsibility we all share,” says Palma Aquarium, which has long championed marine conservation.
The campaign promotes awareness through events, volunteer opportunities, and educational outreach. “Every action counts,” the Foundation emphasises, encouraging community involvement in preserving Mallorca’s waters.
Monthly themed activities at Palma Aquarium engage visitors with interactive experiences. March highlights
the Balearic Sea’s biodiversity, April debunks shark myths, May focuses on sea turtles, June celebrates oceans, July showcases dolphins and whales, August explores starfish, and September spotlights seabirds. Weekends and holidays feature workshops, storytelling, and games tailored to each theme. Beach cleanups, talks, and school programmes further amplify the message.
Som de la Mar invites Palma’s community to join this movement through social media, events, and volunteer efforts. Together, we can ensure a thriving sea for future generations. Visit Palma Aquarium to participate - because the sea is our legacy.
First cocktail boat
yer Molist , a couple in their 30s who, ve summers ago, decided to bring cocktails to the sea .
The spark was ignited in 2022 when Mar, immersed in the endless scrolling of Instagram, came across a video recorded on a Thai beach, where a small vessel served drinks to others.
“We saw it elsewhere and we did it here,” she recalls. What began as an improvised adventure, with a single boat and the two of them as the only crew members, is today a small eet of three four-metre boats that serve cocktails throughout the Bay of Palma, from Illetas to
The Pirí-pirí is quickly becoming popular in Palma and Pollença.
ters in Pollença. Its success isn’t explained simply by the exotic appeal of ordering a mojito on board, but by its philosophy: “We’re not a delivery service for tourists; we’re a local, friendly business with many Mallorcan customers.”
LIKE every summer, Ana Obregón has taken refuge from the hustle and bustle of Spain’s capital Madrid in El Manantial, on the island of Mallorca, an oasis of peace she shares with her siblings and where she has spent most, if not all, of the summer seasons.
The family retreat has witnessed the happiest moments of the actress’s life, which she now remembers with nostalgia. With mixed feelings, Ana will have to say goodbye to this paradise of great emotional value, as she has decided, along with her siblings, to sell the beloved house that her father built for the holiday pleasure of her family.
After Aless’s death ve years ago, Ana feels less and less attached to material objects and is clear that what’s truly important is the here and now, spending time with her loved ones.
“The only thing I regret in this life is all the hours I worked instead of spending time with
environment is unwavering: they have the Plastic Free Balearics certi cation from the Save the Med Foundation, they o er edible sugar-free straws and reusable cups, and they ensure that each service leaves the smallest possible footprint.
my son,” she said recently.
Now, with her little girl, Anita, she’s learned the lesson, and although she still gets numerous job o ers, “I wouldn’t leave Anita for anything in the world.”
Now, ‘Anita Dinamita’, as the actress a ectionately calls her, strolls through its nooks and crannies with that characteristic joy and curiosity, just as her father did.
“Even if I don’t love the idea of selling the house, it’s almost better,” she concluded after her nostalgic walk through her beautiful gardens.
Credit: Palma Aquarium website
Som de la Mar is a campaign to promote awareness of the importance of the sea to all Balearic Islands’ residents and visitors. Renowned Spanish actress is thinking
From acting to baking
AN iconic figure in Spanish cinema and frequent collaborator of director Pedro Almodóvar, Rorry de Palma has put Fornet de la Soca, an artisanal bakery located in her hometown of Palma, on the gastronomic map.
Through a recent post on her official Instagram account, the actress shared various images of her city, including a photo clearly showing a bag from this establishment, which generated immediate interest among her followers and local food lovers.
The publication has served as a showcase for this small culinary gem, which, according to connoisseurs of Balearic gastronomy, specialises in recovering traditional Mallorcan
recipes that were falling into obscurity.
The endorsement of an internationally renowned figure like Rossy de Palma is a significant boost for this local business committed to keeping the island’s pastry tradition alive.
The detail has not gone unnoticed by the actress’s followers, who quickly identified the distinctive Fornet de la Soca bag.
This spontaneous gesture by the artist has highlighted the value of artisanal gastronomy as a fundamental part of Mallorca’s cultural heritage .
El Fornet de la Soca is known as the guardian of the Mallorcan pastry tradition and was founded over a decade ago.
August train timetables
ON Monday, August 18, Serveis Ferroviaris de Mallorca ( SFM ) resumed the train timetable for the remaining days of the month and until September 1, when the schedule goes back to its regular schedule, according to the Balearic Islands’ Ministry of Housing, Territory, and Mobility.
The schedule was changed with fewer train frequencies on all routes due to the remodelling works of the overpass on Greco Street, near the Verge de Lluc station, which affects traffic on the entire railway network, the ministry said, according to Ultima Hora.
Thus, starting on Monday, train frequencies were increased compared to the last two weeks, when they had to be reduced due to construction work. The weekend schedule has been implemented on weekdays
with an additional three trains.
The renovation works to remodel the Greco Street overpass mean traffic will be used on a single track - instead of the usual two - between Son Fuster and Verge de Lluc stations in both directions, affecting traffic flow across the entire network.
Through to the end of August, all departures and arrivals will be from
the same platform at the Son Fuster, Son Cladera/ es Viver, and Verge de Lluc stations.
All weekday Palma-Manacor trains (this direction only) make a seven-minute stop at Inca station before continuing to Manacor. This stop does not require passengers to transfer to another train. Check online train schedules ahead of time to avoid delays or other issues.
Renowned Spanish actress Rossy de Palma has put her artisanal bakery, Fornet de la Soca, on the gastronomic map.
Local authorities recommend checking official train schedules before travel.
10 things to do in Palma Total solar eclipse
IN August 2025, explore Palma de Mallorca’s vibrant offerings, keeping in mind that this is an essential holiday spot that is more than just beaches; it has a rich cultural tradition left behind by Romans, Arabs, and Catholics.
Start a journey at the iconic La Seu Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with Gaudí’s touches, offering stunning sea views.
Enjoy wandering through the historic Old Town, where narrow streets reveal the Royal Palace of Almudaina, blending Arab and Christian architecture.
Visit Bellver Castle, a unique circular fortress with panoramic vistas and a history museum. Stroll the lively Plaza Mayor, perfect for artisan markets and people-watching.
Relax at Can Pere Antoni beach, a short walk from the cathedral, ideal for sunbathing. Shop along the tree-lined Passeig des Born, home to
There are many things to do in Palma, which has a rich cultural inheritance left behind centuries ago by the Romans, Arabs and Catholics.
brands like Zara.
Savour authentic Balearic tapas, such as pa amb oli, at the bustling Mercat de Santa Catalina.
Cycle the three-kilometre seafront promenade for refreshing coastal breezes. Discover contemporary art at Es Baluard Museu, showcasing Mediterranean creativity.
End your day in Santa Catalina’s vibrant nightli-
Credit: proslgn/Shutterstock
fe, sipping cocktails at LAB Cocktail Bar or dining at Mercado Gastronómico San Juan with live music.
August’s warm weather enhances Palma’s charm, blending rich heritage, stunning beaches, and lively markets for an unforgettable Mediterranean escape.
Plan your visit to experience the best of this Balearic gem.
MALLORCA’S Astronomy Foundation has relea sed a visibility map for the highly an ticipated total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, the first in a series of celestial events visible on the island, followed by a partial eclipse in 2027 and an annular eclipse in 2028.
This 2026 eclipse, one of the most awaited in de cades, has sparked a surge in multimillion-dollar hotel bookings across Mallorca.
Credit: DCProduction Media/Shutterstock
The next total solar eclipse viewable in Mallorca is on August 12, 2026.
A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, entirely obscuring the star and briefly turning day into night.
On August 12, 2026, the eclipse will begin at 7.35pm, with the moon gradually covering the sun.
The total phase, peaking at 8.32pm at
just 2.4 degrees above sea level, will be best viewed from the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and parts of the southwest coast, including areas from Cap de Regana to Cap Blanc (Llucmajor) and from Colonia de Sant Jordi (Ses Salines) to Cap Salines (Santanyi).
Inland spots like Puig de Randa (Algaida), Sant Salvador (Felanitx), or Santa Magdalena (Inca) may offer incomplete views due to topography. In Sant Elm (Andratx), the Dragonera peak will obstruct the whole spectacle, and Palma’s coast will miss the peak. By 8.45pm, 40 per cent of the sun’s surface will reappear, but it will already be below the horizon. Observers must use proper eclipse glasses or telescope filters to avoid irreversible eye damage.
Arrival of Hispanic doctors
WORKING in Mallorca as a doctor from Latin America can bring unexpected challenges. You think you’ve mastered the language of your new country of residence. Then this happens: when internist Antonio Drusetta arrived in Mallorca in 1990, he prescribed a laxative to a child whose mother said he had a ‘constipado’ (a cold).
“In my home country, Venezuela, ‘constipado’ means constipation,” explains the 60-year-old, according to Diario de Mallorca in an article on why so many South Ame -
rican doctors have come to this Balearic island.
After the incident, he bought books to quickly familiarise himself with local medical terms.
“Now, I sometimes read medical reports from colleagues who recently arrived from Latin America. I laugh because they use expressions I don’t know,” said Drusetta.
Thirty-five years ago, not all Mallorcans were happy he was not Spanish. Some preferred to be treated by a doctor who spoke Mallorcan, recalled the father of three.
“I understand that the
Latin American doctors in Mallorca are becoming less and less a rarity.
islanders felt invaded.” Three decades later, these incidents with patients are a thing of the past. Now Drusetta no longer has an accent and sometimes jokes with her patients in Mallorcan.
The local medical association confirms there 7,200 registered physicians in Mallorca, 1,800 of whom are from Latin America, the majority of which are from Argentina, Cuba, Colombia, and Venezuela. Each year, around 240 new doctors register with the association. Half of them are Latin American.
Bedouin electrifies
LA PLAZA at Recinto Mallorca Live in Spain offers an immersive experience for lovers of underground electronic music. The event from 6pm on Sunday, August 24, featuring the renowned DJ duo Bedouin, promises a night of captivating soundscapes.
Arriving from Albania and England, where they were highly successful … again, Bedouin are known for their unique blend of deep house and techno infused with Middle Eastern influences.
The Bedouin pair crafts a musical journey that transports listeners to uncharted realms.
Their sets are a testament to their global recognition and consistent presence in the electronic music scene.
Alongside them, Satori, a maestro of ethereal sounds and organic rhythms, adds his distinct touch. Satori’s live performances are celebrated
for their vibrant energy and seamless fusion of genres, providing an auditory exploration that captivates audiences.
The venue is a staple in
Urba’s summer menu
WITH the arrival of good weather, Urba, the most international and cosmopolitan restaurant on the island of Mallorca, has surprised its customers with a succulent summer menu served in the spectacular rooftop with 360º views of the Bay of Palma, La Seu and the entire old town.
The Urba is located in the El Llorenç de La Mar hotel, in the heart of the La Calatrava neighbourhood.
Urba executes fine culinary art, offering its patrons a gastronomic journey that fuses global flavours with seasonal local produce in an experience designed to be shared. Their chefs have an open, creative, and borderless cuisine that evolves with each season of the year, and this summer holiday has arrived at Urba with a fresh, bold, and vibrant offering.
Among their new
About a week ago, Bedouin vibed hundreds of followers in London. Now, they’re headed to Mallorca for another spectacular show
Spain’s vibrant nightlife, known for hosting some of the most memorable underground events.
Food trucks will also be available at the venue.
RESTAURANT REVIEW
Argentinian and Korean fusion in this dish. Grilled
gourmet menu, their chefs offer Summer tomato and ‘Riofrío’ sturgeon, piparras, black olives and dhukka, Iberian Pluma ‘al Pastor’ Tacos with pineapple chutney and smoked chilli. They also serve corn ribs with Chinesestyle BBQ sauce and yuzu mayonnaise. And how about their mouthwatering fried turbot, kimchee hollandaise and baby courgettes in ceviche. For
dessert ... wait for it … a sumptuous Dubai chocolate-style soft cake. Urba also combines its cuisine with a carefully curated selection of signature cocktails, perfect for pairing with each dish or simply enjoying the sunset from the highest point of the city.
Plaça de Llorenç Villalonga 4, Centre 07001 Palma Tel: 971 677 770
MALLORCA
Admiring Juan Miró
FROM now until November 11, Palma will be brimming with works by Joan Miró with a simultaneous exhibition in its four main exhibition centres.
In an early tribute to the 50th anniversary of his Sa Llonja de Palma Exhibition in 1978, the city has been covered with the work of this artist who was born in Barcelona on April 20, 1893 but lived in Palma from the mid1950s until his death on December 25, 1983.
‘Landscape’, 1974 and ‘Woman, Bird and Star’ [Tribute to Picasso], 1966-1973, both at the Fundació
The exhibition, Paysage Miró, consists of 117 pieces, including canvases, sculptures, and works on paper, as well as documents and personal objects of the artist, which are displayed in the four venues.
Of these works, 53 have been loaned by the Reina Sofía, one by the MACBA, and another five by the Fundació Miró in Barcelona. The works that form part of the project cover a very extensive period in Miró’s artistic career, from 1916 to 1981.
100th Felanitx festival
FELANITX Town Council has unveiled the lineup for the Sant Agustí festival that will take place from August 22 until August 31, which this year marks its centenary with nine days of concerts featuring Amaral, Oques Grasses, Lori Meyers, Mago de Oz, and Maria Hein among the guest artists.
“I want to highlight the great 100th anniversary festival, which kicks off on Friday (August 22),” said the councillor for the Festivals, Toni Peña. “This festival will be a true tribute to these 10 decades of music and great achievements that have passed through our festi-
The exhibition project is the most important cultural initiative carried out to date in the Balearic Islands around Miró’s creative legacy and aims to serve as a showcase for Palma’s bid to become the European City of Culture in 2031.
The Consell de Mallorca has joined this tribute with an exhibition at the Museu de Mallorca, which will focus on the artist’s involvement in improving the state of contemporary art in Palma throughout the 1970s.
The first festival, 100 years ago, was linked with football. Everybody had a ball, no doubt.
vals.” Peña promised this “won’t just be a festival, but a grand musical and with spectacular visual effects, created from the heart, with the participation of amazing artists, organisations, and people from our municipality, and with collaborations from powerful musicians who will make this evening a unique experience.”
The mayor of Felanitx, Catalina Soler, also expressed her satisfaction with the milestone of 100
years of festivals and recalled how the beginnings of these festivities were linked to local football. Soler, as councillor for Culture, recalled that “the Sant Agustí events also include the publication of a book about these 100 years of festivals, 100 years of Sant Agustins, where the best artists of each era have performed. A book coordinated by Juan Ciria, in which various people from the municipality contribute their work on this milestone.”
Miró Mallorca
Credit: Arxiu Fundació Pilar/Roberto Ruiz
Credit: Bedouin_Official/Instagram
wagyu beef served over sweet corn puree.
Credit: Urba Restaurant
Cheap supermarkets
FOOD inflation has turned the weekly grocery run into a financial headache, but a new study by Spain’s consumer group OCU shows families can fight back simply by choosing the right supermarket. Researchers tracked 155,489 prices for 236 products across 1,108 stores in 65 cities, finding that households could save around €1,056 a year - nearly 17.5 per cent of their food budget - by shopping at the cheapest chains.
The study ranked Family Cash, Alcampo, Supeco, Consum and Mercadona as Spain’s most affordable supermarkets. These retailers consistently kept baskets cheaper, especially through own-brand ranges. But the report also stressed that location matters: the gap between the lowest and highest bills within the same chain is particularly sharp in cities such as Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona. That means shoppers in urban areas could pocket even bigger savings by being selective about where they buy.
OCU notes that the average basket is now 14.1 per cent more expensive than
INTERVIEW
Price-checking in the aisles.
last year and up 30.8 per cent compared with 2022. Essentials like sugar and condensed milk have spiked, while items such as sunflower oil and Canary bananas have eased, but the overall climb leaves many households squeezed. Most savings come from swapping to store brands for pantry staples, dairy and cleaning products, where the difference to big-name labels is minimal. The key is combining supermarket choice with smarter habits: planning meals around real promotions, sticking to a list, splitting the shop across chains, freezing leftovers and resisting impulse buys.
Speaking European: Rebecca PierikFrom Amsterdam to Benidorm
Originally from Amsterdam, Rebecca Pierik arrived in Spain almost by accident. She first came for a few months during the financial crisis, unable to sell her home in the Netherlands. Recently divorced and unemployed, she took a holiday to decide her next move.
IN 2014, she travelled through Suriname and Cuba for three months. Returning to a struggling Dutch economywithout work, a partner, or a home - she began comparing the €2,500 monthly cost of living in Amsterdam to Spain’s €1,000. The idea of relocating took hold.
At first she considered Barcelona or Malaga, but by chance chose Benidorm. Her parents approved, and she rented a house online for a month. She drove down with her mother, while her father flew. Within weeks she was working in a Dutch bar. Rebecca learned Spanish, earned her teaching licence, and, drawing on her naval background, joined the Red Cross in Altea. For the past four years she has volunteered in emergency services and on ambulances in Benidorm.
sea.
Rare September eclipse
THE final total lunar eclipse of 2025 is set to dazzle Spain on the night of Saturday September 7.
Wondering when is the next total lunar eclipse in Spain? This one, known as the Blood Moon, will be one of the most vivid and longest of the decade. For 83 minutes, the Moon will glow a deep copper red as Earth casts its shadow across the lunar surface.
This rare Blood Moon will be fully visible across most of Spain, except parts of western Galicia and the Canary Islands, where only the end will be seen.
The eclipse begins at 7.31pm, peaks at 8.11pm and ends at 8.53pm, just days before the Moon reaches its perigee, when it appears slightly larger in the sky.
A total lunar eclipse happens when Earth moves between the Sun
and Moon. Sunlight passes through our atmosphere, scattering blue light and allowing red and orange tones to bathe the Moon.
The colour and brightness are measured using the Danjon scale.
This eclipse is expected to score L=2 or L=3 – a coppery red centre with brighter edges.
To watch it, no special glasses are needed. Find high ground, avoid light pollution, and take a camera with tripod. Apps like Stellarium and SkySafari can help you track the Moon’s path.
This will be the second and final lunar eclipse visible from Spain this year – and perhaps the most spectacular.
Today, she teaches Spanish to Dutch learners and belongs to two Athletic Bilbao su-
pporters’ clubs. Earlier this year, she and her chef launched a cooking workshop where guests learn to prepare paella, enjoy alioli and pa amb tomàquet, and dine together. Fully booked for September, the venture is thriving. Rebecca, also a licensed lifeguard, said to Euro Weekly News: “I didn’t want to be a foreigner living in Spain - I wanted to live like the Spanish. It’s been a chance to meet people, improve my Spanish, and embrace the culture.”
Red Moon Rising: Blood moon eclipse to stun Spain in September skies.
Credit: Ricardo Garcia Alonso, Shutterstock
Portrait of Rebecca Pierik, and her in action as a Red Cross volunteer assisting a person in the
Credit: Rebecca Pierik
GERMANY
Cheeky theft
IN Salzwedel, thieves have stolen the bronze backside from the famous ‘Puparschbierbrunnen’ - literally ‘Bottom Beer Fountain’ - a statue of a man bending over with beer flowing from a keg on his back. The fountain has been a well-known quirky landmark for decades. Police are currently investigating.
Cash bounty
VICTIMS of a daring bank heist in Lübeck last December are offering an extraordinary reward of €240,000 in cash, gold and Krugerrands for information leading to the four men who broke into 371 safe-deposit boxes worth more than €18 million at Deutsche Bank. Earlier, prosecutors had offered only €5,000, with no result.
PORTUGAL ITALY FRANCE DENMARK BELGIUM
Jagger’s journey
ROLLING STONES frontman Mick Jagger, 82, has been spotted holidaying across Portugal, from the streets of Lisbon to the surf town of Nazaré, the historic city of Coimbra and the riverfront of Porto. Travelling with family, he took in local sights, met fans and posed for photos during his summer tour of the country.
Wine tariffs
PORTUGUESE wine producers warn that a planned 15 per cent US tariff could result in a 30 per cent price rise for consumers. Lower-priced bottles are expected to be most affected, and industry figures fear that if importers push down producer prices in response, the consequences could be particularly severe for smaller wineries.
NORWAY
Oslo outbreak
A HEPATITIS A outbreak in Oslo has been traced to the popular Frognerseteren restaurant, which remains closed following the cases. To date, 22 cases have been reported, 12 genetically confirmed, among patrons who consumed food there between mid-June and August 2. Local health services are offering vaccinations to anyone potentially exposed.
Cheaters charged
SKI jumpers Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang, along with three team officials, have been charged with ski suit tampering at the World Championships in Trondheim. FIS says reinforced thread was used, but the athletes deny knowledge. Both were disqualified in March and suspended. The ethics committee’s ruling is pending.
EURO PRESS
NETHERLANDS
Lafufu bust
SINCE March, Dutch customs officers have seized approximately 400,000 counterfeit Labubu dolls, predominantly at Schiphol Airport. These fake versions, dubbed ‘Lafufu’, are of inferior quality and pose safety risks, including choking hazards due to detachable parts and potential exposure to harmful chemicals.
Credit: Enjoy The Life / Shutterstock
Wedding refund
COPENHAGEN Municipality has been ordered to refund nearly 23 million kroner (around €3,082,000) to more than 12,000 primarily foreign couples who were incorrectly charged wedding fees at City Hall since 2018. The charges - up to 4,500 kroner - were only lawful for ceremonies held outside the hall.
Canine risk
A NEW Danish study shows that wild carnivores such as foxes, badgers and mink can carry canine distemper virus, which poses a threat to farmed and domestic animals. It’s highly contagious among carnivores, but cannot be transmitted to humans, underscoring the importance of vaccination for dogs and biosecurity for vulnerable species.
Kit copycat
BRITISH designer Diana Al Shammari has accused Belgian football club Beerschot of copying her floral embroidery design featured on their new limited-edition kit. The sportswear company Nova, which produced the shirt, denies wrongdoing, stating they contacted her for collaboration but received no response.
Bikini brawl
TWO women from Brussels, aged 19 and 21, are set to appear in court after allegedly attacking police officers in Blankenberge for violating a local bikini ban. During their arrest, one struck an officer, and another was slightly injured. A minor accompanying them was released without charge. They face charges of resisting arrest and assault.
FINLAND SWEDEN
Spirit slump
ALCOHOL consumption in Finland is declining, while interest in alcohol-free options is rising. In July, state-owned retailer Alko saw a 65 per cent increase in non-alcoholic drink sales from July 2024. Wine sales fell about 5 per cent, spirits 8.2 per cent, and overall sales volume dropped 2.5 per cent year-on-year.
Veteran’s gift
THE University of Eastern Finland has received its largest-ever donation - more than €3 million - from the estate of a late farmer and war veteran. The gift will be used to support research and education, with the university establishing a dedicated fund in his name to honour his legacy.
Illegal cargo
A 53-YEAR-OLD man has been sentenced to one year in prison in Sweden after police found about 750,000 illegal cigarettes and 198 litres of spirits in his car. The cigarettes, lacking Swedish health warnings, carried an estimated tax value of over 1.5 million kronor (around €134,208.69), according to Dagens Juridik.
Sea treasure
THEO WANDERYDZ, 31, a screenwriter from Gothenburg, lost his ring in the sea earlier this summer while visiting the Bohuslän coast. Despite searches, it seemed gone for good until it was later found attached to a sea star by a diver. The discovery, quickly shared on social media, drew widespread attention for its unusual and whimsical nature.
Charity ride
A 20-YEAR-OLD student from Lyon, Maxime Jerez, cycled an ambitious 1,100 km from Palavas-les-Flots to Calais in just three days to honour his late grandmother and raise funds for cancer research. “No stress, just excitement,” he said before setting off, supporting the Ligue contre le cancer with €5 donated for every kilometre.
Pigeon control
THE town of Suresnes has introduced an animal-friendly method to curb its pigeon population: since early August a dispenser on Place Henri IV has provided pigeons with corn kernels coated in a reversible contraceptive gel each morning. The €19,000 initiative aims to reduce pigeon births by 30 per cent to 80 per cent, without harming other wildlife.
Pageant outrage
IN Italy’s Campania region, a 13-year-old girl appeared on the Miss Italia ‘Mascotte’ catwalk, wearing a bikini and high heels, despite the minimum age being 18. The incident, spotlighted by journalist Selvaggia Lucarelli, sparked outrage and prompted the immediate dismissal of the regional representative.
Italian roots
COMEDIAN and US host Jimmy Kimmel has obtained Italian citizenship through his maternal ancestry, saying it offers him ‘options’ for the future. Speaking on The Sarah Silverman Podcast, he noted the move came earlier this year and hinted he might spend more time in Europe, depending on how political events unfold in the US.
IRELAND
Bar blaze
A MAN in his 20s has been arrested in connection with a fire at Conor McGregor’s pub, the Black Forge Inn, in Dublin. The incident occurred on July 25, when a flammable liquid was used to set fire to the pub’s front. The suspect was apprehended by the Gardaí’s Special Detective Unit and remains in custody. Investigations are ongoing.
Sports solidarity
SPORTING legends from various disciplines have rallied behind a fundraising campaign, ‘Stand For Féile,’ to support a young Cork girl who tragically lost both her legs in a farm accident. The initiative has garnered widespread support from the sports community to aid Féile O’Sullivan’s recovery and future care.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Hiring gap
ONLY 16 per cent of UK firms recruit ex-offenders, research by DSA Connect shows. More than half of reoffenders struggled to find work after release, with 61 per cent blaming this for returning to crime. Skills shortages mean businesses are missing valuable hires.
Recycling reform
ONLINE UK marketplaces must now share recycling costs for electrical waste under new rules, creating a fairer system for domestic retailers. The changes target items from washing machines to vapes, aiming to boost recycling, cut fly-tipping, and make a more sustainable economy.
Biomass boost
ENSO has secured €165 million to build two biomass plants in Spain, supplying energy to ACOR in Olmedo and Solvay in Torrelavega. The projects will cut more than 400,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, with financing led by Santander, MUFG, Natixis, Bank of America, and Cajamar.
Eco-Park launch
PUERTO RICAN firm Toroverde will open its first European mountain eco-park in Cuenca, Spain, in 2027. The €90m project, expanding to €118m over six years, will feature Europe’s longest zip line, immersive trails, and an eco-resort, aiming for 280,000 visitors in year one.
Nuclear AI
ROLLS-ROYCE says powering AI data centres with its small modular reactors (SMRs) could make it the UK’s most valuable company. Deals for six SMRs in the Czech Republic and three in the UK are planned, targeting a trillion-dollar global market by 2050.
STAT OF WEEK
119,811
Spain’s population increased by during the second quarter of 2025, standing at 49,315,949 on July 1.
Binance and BBVA
BINANCE, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, is partnering with Spanish banking giant BBVA to let customers store their assets with the bank instead of directly on the exchange, according to the Financial Times .
The move comes as Binance faces intense global regulatory scrutiny following a record $4.3 billion (€3.69 billion) fine from US authorities in February for violating anti-money laundering laws and international sanctions.
Its founder, Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao, was sentenced to four months in prison for failing to prevent money laundering.
Under the deal, BBVA will act as an independent custodian - essentially a trusted third party - safeguarding client assets in case Binan -
ce faces security breaches, bankruptcy, or further legal action.
As Spain’s second-largest bank, praised for innovation and sustainability, BBVA is heavily regulated and required to meet strict compliance rules. This could reassure
UK hiring activity
UK hiring activity dropped sharply in June, with permanent job placements falling at their fastest pace in almost two years, according to the latest KPMG and REC UK Report on Jobs.
At the same time, the supply of candidates surgedthe steepest increase since November 2020 - amid reports of redundancies and weaker demand for workers.
“Ongoing geopolitical turbulence and the threat of
€230m fund
SPAIN’S Regional Resilience Fund has committed €230 million, via loans from NextGenerationEU, to finance projects through A&G (€130 million) and Urbania Alpha (€100 million). Part of the country’s Recovery Plan, the funding will support affordable housing, sustainable tourism, green mobility, waste and water management, plus energy efficiency. The European Investment Bank will monitor compliance with environmental and social criteria, with investments due by December 2030. This latest agreement brings total financing under the EIB’s new mechanism to €640 million.
wary investors still reeling from the collapse of rival exchange FTX in 2022.
Banks are far more tightly regulated than crypto exchanges, and BBVA’s involvement could encourage more cautious investors to enter the digital asset market.
rising costs, alongside the promise of technology efficiencies, mean companies continue to wait and see with their hiring,” said Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner at KPMG.
Morocco’s air taxis
MOROCCO is stepping into the fast-growing air taxi market, hoping to join forces with Spain and the UK to produce next-generation electric aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL).
The proposed partnership would see British firm, Vertical Aerospace, and Spanish aeronautics giant, Aciturri Aerostructures, work alongside Morocco.
Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 will carry four passengers and one pilot, with a range of over 150 kilometres and a cruising speed of 240 km/h.
Plans in Spain could see air taxis operating routes such as Malaga–Marbella, Ronda, or even Ceuta and Melilla.
John Lewis Beauty
JOHN LEWIS is investing millions into six new Beauty Halls across the UK, starting with a redesigned Liverpool store that will act as a blueprint for national rollout. The 16,000 sq ft space - expanded by almost 40 per cent - houses 132 premium brands, including Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty, and features ‘sensory spaces’ for treatments and consultations. Stores in Bluewater, Solihull, and Cambridge will follow by late 2025. Chief commercial officer Vikki Kavanagh said stores are the ‘physical heartbeat of the brand’ and destinations for discovery, part of an £800 million wider commitment as beauty sales rise 40 per cent in five years.
FC BARCELONA has refinanced €424 million of Espai Barça debt, originally due in 2028, into a new structure repayable from 2033 to 2050 at an average cost of 5.19 per cent, in collaboration with Goldman Sachs. The move, ahead of schedule, reduces the risk premium by almost half compared to 2023 and follows a Morningstar DBRS outlook upgrade to ‘positive’. Funding for the €1.45 billion stadium project remains without mortgaging assets or costing members.
BUSINESS GROWTH FUND (BGF) has made its first investment under the £300 million Invest in Women Taskforce pledge, backing Northern Ireland’s CWC Group, a specialist care provider founded by Monica Byrne and Imelda McGrady in 1983. Now led by Aisling and Shauna Byrne, CWC operates seven sites. The funding will support acquisitions and service expansion. Backed by major UK banks, BGF has invested £500 million in female-led scaleups over five years, as part of its £3 billion UK-wide growth commitment.
THE share of UK working-age adults reporting a disability surged to 24.8 per cent in 2024 - 3.9 million more than a decade ago - with the sharpest rise among young women citing mental health issues (Economics Observatory). Disabled people’s employment rate is 54 per cent, nearly 30 points lower than non-disabled peers, with a 12 per cent hourly pay gap. The trend is straining public finances, raising welfare costs, and increasing demands for workplace adjustments and inclusive employment policies.
Binance and Bitcoin.
Stressed office worker.
3I Group 3.963,00 3.998,00 3.962,00 114,92K Admiral Group 3.562,0 3.592,0 3.544,0 24,63K
Airtel Africa 216,40 217,60 215,60 137,8K Anglo American 2.149,0 2.175,6 2.135,0 154,95K Antofagasta 2.134,00 2.134,00 2.098,00 105,52K
Ashtead Group 5.282,5 5.332,0 5.264,0 41,82K Associated British Foods 2.268,0 2.285,0 2.266,0 34,84K AstraZeneca 11.716,0 11.724,0 11.642,0 127,55K Auto Trader Group Plc 810,40 811,40 806,00 40,9K Aviva 662,80 671,51 661,40 603,51K
B&M European Value Retail SA 224,90 226,00 224,00 275,76K
BAE Systems 1.796,00 1.801,50 1.774,00 755,44K Barclays 367,85 372,25 366,75 3,91M Barratt Redrow 375,59 376,90 374,30 307,02K
Beazley 783,50 785,00 775,50 292,74K
Berkeley 3.794,0 3.810,0 3.782,0 19,08K
BP 420,90 421,85 418,65 2,57M
British American Tobacco 4.243,0 4.249,0 4.228,0 193,86K BT Group 213,10 213,50 212,30 1,09M
2.288,0 2.296,0 2.278,0 53,78K
164,90 167,59 164,30 961,67K
Cola HBC AG 3.892,0 3.900,0 3.884,0 23,51K
2.579,00 2.598,06 2.578,00 67,52K
Group 229,20 229,20 227,40 175,44K
4.757,2 4.762,0 4.710,0 27,84K
2.033,0 2.022,0 248,96K
879,25 888,40 878,40
Bingo blunder
GALA BINGO UK players were left angry after a glitch wrongly credited over £1.6m in winnings during its Summer Nights promotion. Some withdrew funds before being told of the error. The Gambling Commission is investigating, while Gala cites terms allowing voided payouts after malfunctions.
Top choice
SPAIN is Europe’s top summer holiday choice, with 13 per cent of travellers picking it - up five points on last year, says the European Travel Commission. Most plan to spend €1,500–€2,500 per person, with September breaks and lesser-known destinations growing in popularity.
Tether and Bit2Me
TETHER, the world’s largest company in the digital assets industry, has acquired a minority equity stake in Bit2Me, Spain’s leading Spanish-speaking cryptocurrency platform, as part of a €30 million funding round.
This deal comes shortly after Bit2Me became the first Spanish-speaking exchange to receive authorisation from Spain’s CNMV as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider under the EU’s new Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). This licence allows the company to operate legally
Iberdrola’s EV charging
IBERDROLA Spain has launched the first electric vehicle charging points under a contract with Murcia City Council to install 190 across the city. The inaugural stations, on Avenida de los Pinos, include fast (50 kW) and semi-fast (22 kW) chargers, all powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. “This public-private partner-
ship... helps to promote emission-free transport,” said Enrique Planells, Iberdrola’s regional Key Accounts Manager (Atalayar). Users can locate, reserve, and pay via Iberdrola’s app, with card payments available on fast chargers. Iberdrola operates Spain’s largest EV network, with over 9,500 public points.
across all 27 EU member states.
Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino said, “Bit2Me has consistently demonstrated its commitment to building compliant, secure, and intuitive infrastructure for the digital asset ecosystem. We’re proud to support Bit2Me as they help shape the future of regulated crypto services in Europe and beyond.”
Founded in 2014, Bit2Me has over 1.2 million users and serves more than 7,000 companies, with transaction volumes exceeding €3 billion in 2025 so far.
Bit2Me’s co-founder Andrei Manuel said, “Welcoming a global leader like Tether into our shareholding structure is a transformational moment for Bit2Me. With their backing, we aim to accelerate our leadership in Europe and Latin America, markets that are just beginning to unlock the power of decentralised finance.”
Entain’s results
ENTAIN reported strong H1 2025 results, with UK and Ireland online Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) up 21 per cent and Spain seeing double-digit online growth. Group EBITDA rose 11 per cent to £583m. An interim dividend of 9.8p per share, up 5 per cent, will be paid on September 29.
BELARUS confirms release in Spain of its citizens subjected to labour exploitation. Press Secretary Ruslan Varankov said the embassy in Madrid is working closely with Spanish law enforcement and will offer consular and legal support.
Once investigations conclude, the freed individuals will be safely repatriated. The Foreign Ministry will continue monitoring the situation.
Spain’s leading Spanish-speaking cryptocurency platform.
Credit: PJ McDonnell, Shutterstock
The house-sitting and pet-setting business
THE origins of house-sitting goes back to early pet ownership. You help neighbours when they’re away from home, ensuring pets are cared for. Though if a pet owner lives away from close networks finding support is harder. HouseSitMatch helps!
When I was working in corporate, I always needed sitters to care for my property and pets. So, when a friend came to visit from Australia and said she’d been house-sitting in exchange for free home and pet care, the penny dropped. What a great idea!
Pet-sitting like a friend
Our philosophy is pet-sit like a friend, so you collaborate fairly. By working through a managed platform, you access a wider network of checked sitters for more choice. You find people to help, pet lovers and retired folk who love travel and enjoy a spot of gardening.
I loved this idea so much that I gave up a 25-year London career and invested in building HouseSit-
Match, for people to meet safely online.
Every home needs one
Most of us have homes, pets and travel occasionally. HouseSitMatch has helped all kinds of clients find
pet care and security, and frankly every home should have one. They keep pets at home and homes running smoothly. Home and pet owners choose their sitters, house-sitters apply for places to visit and the pets they love to care for. Yet, not a penny changes hands. It’s old-fashioned barter!
Growing and running a hou-
se-sitting business
We began in Europe and the UK, and now we go further afield. We help retired grandparents living in Spain wanting to visit family abroad and any expats needing help with pets when they want to travel, or just wanting to keep their home secure in their absence.
the UK, and now we go years of Covid House-sitting
Ten years on we’ve won a Guardian newspaper award and earned a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5. And we survived Covid and Brexit. As any business owner will know growing a business is hard, but recent years were a challenge. However, we’re lucky with our collaborative members and we always want to welcome more.
I still house-sit myself so I can meet clients, and if we can’t meet in person I’ll call on the phone. Want to join our HouseSitMatch community?
Giant Christ statue
BOADILLA DEL MONTE, a town just outside Madrid, could soon host the world’s largest statue of Christ, surpassing Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer and Poland’s Christ the King.
The proposed ‘Sacred Heart’ monument would stand 37 metres tall, with a 60-metre wingspan, and house a 2.5-metre tabernacle heart.
Designed by Madrid sculptor Javier Viver, it would be built with a reinforced concrete torso and head, and carbon- bre arms. Visitors could enter the structure, making it both a landmark and a pilgrimage site.
The project’s €17 million budget will be funded entirely through donations, with €5 million targeted via crowdfunding before construction begins.
So far, just over €94,000 has been pledged. The ini-
tiative, led by the Asociación de Devotos del Corazón de Jesús de Boadilla, is now in its rst phase - nalising designs, fundraising and preparing logistics.
If funding is secured, building would take around three years, aiming for a June 2030 unveiling. Organisers describe it as ‘a courageous invitation to hope’ and pledge to dedicate 10 per centy of future donations to charity.
Supporters see the sta-
tue as a ‘beacon of reconciliation’ that could boost tourism, create jobs and put Boadilla on the global pilgrimage map. But critics question the priorities of spending millions on a religious monument during a housing crisis and budget pressures in health and education.
There are also practical concerns over tra c, visitor facilities, environmental impact and who will fund the necessary infrastructure.
Here I am pet-sitting for Delphi. sitters.
Concept image of the planned Sacred Heart statue.
Costa del Sol
The €18,000 tomato • News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
A
SMALL box of tomatoes sold for €18,000 in Coin on Friday, August 15. In a historic moment for the Guadalhorce Valley, a batch of the finest huevo de toro tomatoes fetched the record-breaking amount at the 13th annual auction.
The winning bid came from local resident Francisco José Jiménez for a lot grown by Daniel García Plaza. According to a statement from Coin’s town hall, the proceeds will be donated to charitable causes.
The event, sponsored this year by flamenco singer Kiki Morente, saw Antonio Gámez’s tomatoes take second place and Isabel Cortés’s lot secure third.
Coin’s mayor, Francisco Santos, celebrated the gobsmacking payout, stating, “We’ve overtaken all records since we began promoting this tomato variety, unique to our valley, nearly 15 years ago.” He expressed his joy that the funds would support local associations and community groups.
Axarquia A world of opportunities
NERJA is making a huge step in education and job opportunities. The town’s long-awaited Training and Employment Centre is set to open its doors in the first half of October. The training complex will carry real value and lead to certified qualifications for the residents of Nerja.
Mayor José Alberto Armijo confirmed the opening, highlighting that the new hub will not just boost skills but also raise the quality of training available to locals. “We want to give locals access to better opportunities, closer to home,” he said.
The project has been years in the making and represents an investment of €2.9 million, co-financed with both European and municipal funds. Spread across two floors, the 1,511-square-metre space has been designed to feel modern, practical, and accessible. It includes three classrooms, three specialised workshops, a computer room, staff offices, and even areas for one-on-one support. Courses will range from basic training to full professional certificates.
Costa Blanca North French and German officers
THREE foreign police officers – two from the French Gendarmerie and one from the German Federal Police - are serving at the Guardia Civil stations in Altea and El Campello throughout August.
At the main station in Altea, German officer Jessica, 29, who normally works as a traffic officer on Germany’s federal motorway network, is joined by French gendarme Robin, 30, who manages a patrol and intervention unit in his home country. Meanwhile, French gendarme Maud, 26, is stationed at El Campello, where her usual duties include assisting the public, supporting victims, and handling reports.
During their time in Spain, the three officers are performing general policing duties within the Guardia Civil and have been warmly welcomed by their colleagues. They patrol in mixed teams, pairing a foreign officer with a Guardia Civil officer, and also work closely with the Local Police forces in Altea and El Campello on daily crime prevention and law enforcement tasks.
Costa Blanca South Foreign visitors save August
ELCHE’S streets are usually quiet after August 15, with shops closing for summer holidays and locals winding down after the Maredeu festivities. Yet this August, the city is noticeably livelier, thanks in large part to foreign tourists, who are keeping central shops and cafés busy throughout the day.
Business owners are also adapting. On main streets such as the Corredora, approximately 70 per cent of shops remain open, a higher proportion than in previous years. Many small businesses have shortened their holiday periods to just a week or 10 days, returning before September, whereas historically, closures usually lasted two to three weeks. Some professionals, including estate agents and legal offices, close only temporarily and provide emergency contact details as well.
Higher temperatures keep locals and tourists at the beach until late, reducing footfall in commercial areas during peak sun hours. To compensate, some businesses extend their opening hours.
Almeria
Bookstore boon
ALMERIA students are poised to have a fruitful school year: next academic year, 2025-2026, students in their first and second years of primary education and students in their fourth year of secondary education will receive brand new - and free - textbooks. In total, more than 86,000 Almeria students will benefit from the programme. The investment, made possible by a budget of €57 million allocated by the Ministry of Education, will be widespread across the whole of Andalucia. The so-called Free Textbook Programme will allocate more than €5.4 million and benefit more than 86,000 students in Almeria specifically. Students who enrol in the registered courses will receive a book voucher and a list of textbooks to redeem at a local bookstore of their choice, at no cost.
With this programme, the governing bodies of the community of Andalucia hope to provide financial aid to families, facilitate the learning and growth of students, and create accessible academic materials and resources that all students can benefit from for years to come.
Costa Calida Hotel boom
THE Region of Murcia will see a big boost in tourism, with 16 new hotels planned to open over the next three years. These projects will bring more than 700 extra rooms for visitors. The most eye-catching news is the opening of three five-star hotels. One will be built in Alhama, another in San Pedro del Pinatar, and Murcia City will finally get its first five-star hotel when the Arco de San Juan reopens.
Four more hotels will carry a four-star rating, including new options in Cartagena, Molina de Segura, and Caravaca de la Cruz. There will also be new mid-range choices, with two three-star hotels and one two-star hotel on the way. Tourist apartments are also planned for Cartagena.
Cartagena comes out on top, with four of the new hotels set to open there, strengthening its role as a leading destination on the Murcian coast. Overall, the new hotels are expected to attract more visitors, create jobs, and raise the profile of the region as a quality destination in Spain.
PETS
Our house-sitters love animals
THE thing about our HouseSit Match house-sitters is that they just love animals and pets. Most of them prefer to stay at home with pets while they travel because they love the company. Many have had pets in the past but no longer have them at home so house-sitting is a great way to enjoy the company of a pet while discovering a new location. It can be a great way to travel for the right house-sitter. And the pet owner benefits because your pets are cared for in the home. It’s a win-win!
The pet-sitters come for free!
If you’re planning a trip in 2024 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 benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network, and the sitters come for free!
Tiera loves animlals and is a very experienced house-sitter.
Choose HouseSitMatch for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:
1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com
2. Choose a Standard account (£89 per year) to ensure you can 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. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House-sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.
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 from the UK
How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com Need a pet-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!
Functional formulas
HEALTHY dogs are lively, curious and full of energy, which is why more owners are looking to supplements to help maintain their pets’ well-being. Whether to support joints, improve digestion or add a glossy shine to their coat, dog vitamins are becoming a familiar part of feeding routines. These supplements are particularly popular with those caring for older dogs or breeds with specific health concerns.
In Spain, a variety of canine supplements can be found in pet shops, veterinary clinics and reputable online retailers. Options range from multivitamins and fish oils to probiotics, glucosamine and calming formulas.
While many are based on natural ingredients and commonly used in veterinary care, not all have undergone thorough clinical testing. Some are supported
Cat call
ANYONE who shares a home with a cat knows that meows can range from gentle chirps to full-blown demands. This vocal behaviour is often charming, sometimes confusing and always meaningful. Unlike wild cats, domestic cats have developed meowing as a way to communicate with humans rather than other cats. Each meow carries a purpose. Your cat might be hungry, seeking attention or simply saying hello. Some meows are short and sweet, while others are longer and more insistent, often used to ex-
TIP
press frustration or excitement. Over time, many cats create a specific ‘language’ tailored to their owner’s responses. Kittens meow to their mothers, but adult cats typically meow just for us. This special form of communication highlights the unique bond between cats and their people. Understanding the tone, timing and frequency of your cat’s meows can help you better respond to their needs. While meowing is normal, sudden changes in vocal behaviour may suggest illness or stress, so it is always worth listening closely.
Pets need clean water
PETS need constant access to water in order to stay alive. All pets should have access to a clean, fresh bowl of water. Place it by their food bowl and try to refill it at least twice a day. Your pet will then be healthy, hydrated, and happy.
more by experience than scientific trials.
Choosing the right supplement depends on your dog’s individual needs, so it is always wise to consult a vet before adding anything new.
The right support can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s comfort and quality of life.
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Honda refresh enduring Civic
ROAD TEST
By Mark Slack
HONDA has given its Civic e:HEV a refresh, introducing updated interior styling and exterior design changes, alongside its range assuring hybrid performance.
Every Civic trim level now features a redesigned front upper and lower grille, highlighted in black gloss and finished with a new grille and headlight trim for a sharper and arguably more sporting look. New 46cm/18-inch two-tone, diamond cut alloy wheels in grey for Advance grade and black in Sport grade models add to the Civic’s striking exterior.
In addition, all grades will no longer have front fog lights, for a cleaner look, that has been made possible by improved LED headlight technology. To complement these upgrades, a new exterior paint option is now available in Seabed Blue. Inside, all trims will feature a new black interior roof and pillars
In addition, the Advance model will now include interior illumination and footwell lights, while the Sport grade features a new heated steering wheel for improved driver comfort during colder drives. It also receives a 26cm/10.2-inch Digital Driver Display to offer clearer gra-
Shared lane sign
SPAIN’S streets now have a new splash of blue: the S43 road sign. Rolled out from July, it’s part of a national update to make road markings clearer and better suited to modern traffic. The sign’s design is simple but striking - a blue background featuring three icons: a pedestrian, a bicycle and an electric scooter.
The S43 marks shared-use zones where walkers, cyclists and personal mobility vehicles (like e-scooters) all have designated space. Instead of a free-for-all, it signals that the path or lane ahead is divided into sections, keeping pedestrians, bikes and scooters in their own area. That means fewer near-misses, less swerving and a smoother flow for everyone.
Its arrival comes as Spanish towns and cities adapt to a surge in alternative transport. With more people leaving cars at home, pa-
vements and cycle lanes are busier - and conflicts between users more common. The new sign aims to reduce those tensions, making it clear who belongs where and helping all three groups move without getting in each other’s way.
For pedestrians, it means fewer scooters darting past unexpectedly. For cyclists and scooter riders, it’s a green light to ride without weaving through crowds. And for everyone, it’s a small step towards safer, greener and calmer urban travel.
phics and improved visibility. Finally, all Elegance vehicles will now offer wireless charging within the centre console, ensuring ease of access for both driver and passenger. Elegance models will now include an auto dim feature on the rear-view mirror, which previously came as standard in the Sport and Advance grades.
Every Civic e:HEV is equipped with an array of Honda SENSING active safety technologies including the Forward Collision Warning System, designed to detect the presence of vehicles in front, issuing audible, visual and tactile alerts for the driver when approaching with too much speed.
A wide-angle, high-definition camera can identify objects accurately, including pedestrians in both light and dark environments.
At the heart of Honda’s e:HEV powertrain are two electric motors, powered by the EV battery or the engine depending on driving conditions. The system is designed to switch between three distinct driving modes - Electric, Hybrid, and Engine Drive - enabling it to adapt to different driving conditions. For those with varying driving requirements, including long journeys, a full hybrid is a reassuring option if an EV creates too much concern on range and charging.
The latest Honda Civic e:HEV is priced from €39,306/£33,795 for the Elegance trim, the Sport model from €41,167/£35,395 and the Advance €45,006/£38,695.
The new S43 road sign signals dedicated spaces for e-scooters, bikes, and pedestrians.
Credit : X - Dir. Gral. Tráfico @DGTes
Messi close to new record
ARGENTINE
football
star Lionel Messi, currently playing with Inter Miami in the US, has one up on Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of goal assists.
Although Messi is reducing the goal gap versus Ronaldo with 875 against CR7’s 938, another statistic shows the former Barcelona striker is about to make history.
Goal assists require a great measure of creativity, fast decision-making and under pressure, as well as vision and strategic capabilities.
That said, the now US Major League Soccer star is just a handful of passes away from reaching a historic milestone: 400 assists.
That would also put him only four away from the world record set decades ago by Hungarian superstar Ferenc Puskas, 79 years old, and who each year is honoured by FIFA, which annually delivers a Puskas
commemorative trophy to the player in world football who has scored the ‘most beautiful’ goal of the calendar year.
For Messi, who currently has 389 career assists to his name, breaking that world historic record will not be difficult, according to BolaVIP, primarily because the Argentine
forward stands out every game for being a player who works collaboratively with the rest of his squad in search of a goal.
On the other hand, Ronaldo boasts only 257 career assists. He has proven he can provide passes, but he proves he focuses primarily on being the finisher.
League ends partnership
THE Premier League has announced it will end its eight-year partnership with Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, a prominent initiative promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in English football.
Players and clubs may still display rainbow symbols voluntarily.
Since 2017, the league collaborated with Stonewall to encourage players to wear rainbow-coloured laces, clubs to display rainbow branding, and fans to show support, with a dedicated round of fixtures highlighting the campaign each season.
Stadiums, broadcasters, and official channels regularly showcased rainbow symbols as a visual commitment to diversity. The partnership will conclude before the 2025–26 season. In its place, the Premier League plans a new in-house campaign in February, coinciding with LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK. The league has stated the initiative will maintain its focus on diversity and
inclusion but broaden its scope to support multiple under-represented communities within football. Players and clubs may still display rainbow symbols voluntarily, but the league will no longer coordinate or require official match-day displays, potentially reducing the visibility of LGBTQ+ representation across televised games and stadiums.
Reactions to the change have been mixed. Some campaigners and supporters warn that stepping back from Rainbow Laces could diminish representation for groups who felt included. Conversely, many fans and commentators welcome the move, arguing football should prioritise the sport itself and that social campaigns risk distracting from the game and dividing supporters. The Premier League is expected to provide more details about its February campaign closer to launch.
Diogo Jota lives on
LIVERPOOL’S Premier League season opener against Bournemouth on August 15 was marked by a heartfelt tribute to the late Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident in July alongside his brother, André Silva. For the first time since the tragedy, Jota’s family attended a match at Anfield, including his wife, Rute Cardoso, their three children, and his parents.
The occasion was deeply emotional. Tears were reportedly seen among players, including captain Virgil van Dijk and forward Mo Salah, reflecting the strong bonds within the squad. Fans united in remembrance, with a minute’s silence, a mosaic display, and a rendition of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ before kick-off.
Bournemouth also paid homage, with their players and supporters observing the silence and displaying
banners in memory of Jota and Silva.
Liverpool announced that Jota’s No. 20 shirt would be retired across all levels of the club and revealed plans for a grassroots programme in his name to support young footballers. Manager Arne Slot emphasised the importance of supporting the grieving family, praising the unity shown by players, staff, and supporters. Throughout the match, the stadium was
filled with floral tributes, scarves, and heartfelt messages, highlighting the profound impact Jota had both on and off the pitch. The emotional day was topped off by a Liverpool win, providing a sense of triumph alongside remembrance.
The tribute demonstrated the power of the football community to come together in times of loss.
Lionel Messi is on path to break the world’s record in career goal assists. He currently boasts 389.
Liverpool announced that Jota’s Nº20 will be retired.
Photo credit: Jason Wells/Shutterstock
Credit: Victor Velter/Shutterstock