City meets sea
PORTITXOL is facing a transformation that will change its relationship with Palma. The Balearic Islands Port Authority’s plan calls for more green areas, new plazas, and the redesign of its port uses, with the aim of integrating the neighborhood into the city without losing its maritime character.
The Port Authority of the Balearic Islands has presented the Portitxol redevelopment project, an initiative that envisions a profound change that will free up 4,300 square metres for public use, add 5,500 square metres of green space, and transform the dock into a more integrated space within the city.
“With these measures, Portitxol will cease to be a border and become a lively and accessible space, which
Island escape
MICHELLE KEEGAN and Mark Wright have been soaking up late-summer sun and eating paella on the island of Mallorca, delighting fans with holiday snapshots.
This getaway is special to them because it was their rst trip to this Balearic island as a family since the birth of their daughter, Palma, earlier this year - a name they chose as a tribute to the city they love. The couple owns a stunning home in Magaluf, beautifully renovated with the expertise of British Mallorca-based businesswoman and interior designer Justine Knox.
The couple, who consider Palma their second home, posted a collection of photos on Instagram showcasing their moments in char-
ming Soller and scenic Cala Deya.
Michelle and Mark shared a few images of their holiday, o ering their fans a bit of their intimate vacation on the coast, strolls through the historic streets of Palma, and evenings enjoying the island’s famous sunsets.
The couple often speaks of their love for Mallorca, which has become a central part of their lifestyle, with the island o ering them a place to relax, recharge, and now create memories with Palma.
will give people a voice,” said the Balearics Port Authority President (APB) Ja-
“We
open, orderly, and sustainable environment, which will provide a better quality of life, more city, and more sea for everyone,” he added. The plan includes the creation of a large waterfront plaza, the pedestrianization of Sirena Street, and an underground car park to replace the tra c- lled areas and the dry marina. A surface car park exclusively for residents will also be created, with the aim of reducing the pressure generated by the coexistence of leisure, tourism, and neighborhood life.
vier Sanz.
will move from a closed and tense enclave to an
Mallorca • No. 2096 • 4 - 10 Sept
The port of Palma, where the Portitxol redevelopment project is going to take place.
Former Coronation Street actress Michelle Keegan named her daughter Palma, after her favourite holiday destination.
End of a season Improving traffic
THE British cruise ship season is almost at an end, following statistics recently released, which reveal that this year, 551 ships carrying 1.8 million passengers will have visited Mallorca between January and December. That means 47 more boats with 41,085 passengers have visited the island this year compared to last.
This year, on Saturday, September 6, the Cunard superliner, Queen Victoria, will have the honour of closing the Summer season visits to Mallorca, which, by the way, is coming to an end earlier than usual.
The Queen Victoria is 964.5 feet in length, and offers worldwide itineraries.
Passengers can enjoy numerous amenities, including a theatre, library, spa, and multi -
ple dining options, all within a sophisticated, British-themed environment with a required dress code for evening events.
This magnificent ship requires a crew of at least 913 members to provide exceptional service to 2,061 guests. “Queen Victoria will delight you with her special appeal, where elegance and unique features combine seamlessly with outstanding hospitality. You’ll discover an extraordinary way to see the world,” the ship’s website says.
Imagine that! Queen Victoria is the smallest of the Cunard Queens, but she stands out from her “sisters” Queen Elizabeth and Queen Anne because she can sail much faster at 23.7 knots or 44 km/h.
THE Consell of Mallorca has announced 13 projects worth 164 million euros that do not consume land, except for one, aimed at improving mobility and reducing traffic jams by about 25 per cent.
“Some of the projects, such as the access to the Can Valero industrial estate and the Camino de Jesús road, or the second airport exit, have already been completed,” the local government said in a recent statement.
The improvement of access to the Cintura highway, with an additional lane on the airport highway and road reinforcement, as previously explained, is scheduled to begin in October. The remaining projects are in the drafting phase or in the awarding phase.
In addition to section I of the second ring road, which could begin in early 2027, an additional lane will be built on the Vía de Cintura between the Inca motorway and the Valldemossa road.
Roundabouts will be built, and access will be improved from the Llucmajor residential areas and the Son Oms industrial estate.
Furthermore, access improvements from the Andratx motorway to the Vía de Cintura are planned for 2025. A roundabout will also be built on the Vía de Sóller road near the MOT (Spanish vehicle inspection station), among other areas.
Via de Cintura is being redeveloped to improve traffic by at least 25 per cent
Credit: Cunard/Website
The Queen Victoria is 964.5 feet long, is manned by 903 crew members and has room for 2,061 guests
Spain family credit
Up to €2,400 yearly aid
SPAIN has introduced a new family tax credit worth up to €2,400 per year, available as monthly payments or an Income Tax (IRPF) deduction. Announced by Hacienda, the measure aims to ease pressure from rising living costs. It’s one of the most flexible supports available, with families eligible regardless of whether their tax return results in a refund or payment.
Standard large families (usually with three children) can receive €1,200 annually or €100 monthly. Special-category large families (five or more children) get €2,400, plus €600 for each child from the fifth onward. Other eligible households include single parents with two children, families with a disabled member, and those affected by gender-based violence or long-term hospitalisation or imprisonment of a parent.
Applicants must be Spanish tax residents under set income and asset limits. Children earning wages or receiving unemployment benefits can’t be included. Families choose between monthly advances (€100/€200) or year-end deductions. Once approved, credits renew automatically unless circumstances change, which must be reported to AEAT.
Applications are made using Modelo 143 via the Agencia Tributaria website, app, or local office. Required documents include ID, family registry proof, lar -
ge-family or disability certificates, and bank details. With household costs still high, the credit provides welcome relief. Applying early ensures quicker support and more predictable monthly budgets.
https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/en_gb/inicio.html
Spain’s €2,400 ‘family cheque’: eligible families can claim monthly advances or an IRPF deduction.
September’s Welcome Return
Goodbye, August heat - hello, September breeze! Spain finally exhales after a month of fiestas, visitors and sweltering afternoons. August is fun, frantic, and a little mad - we love it while it lasts, but we’re all secretly glad when September sweeps in with cooler days and calmer rhythms.
At Euro Weekly News, September means one thing: the return of our regular columnists. Fresh from their summer break, they’re back with sharp opinions, fresh insights, and plenty of stories to share. Week after week, their voices add colour and character to our pages - sometimes bold, sometimes witty, always unmissable.
This week, your favourite newspaper is again packed with everything you love: breaking news, lively views, tempting restaurant reviews, lifestyle picks - and those much-missed columns that make The People’s Paper everyone’s essential weekly read.
So here’s to September: cooler nights, brighter mornings, and a newspaper bursting with energy for the season ahead.
Euro Weekly News - your life, your stories, your paper.
Season of scrutiny Bank delays
Autumn letters from Hacienda
FOR Spain’s self-employed, September often brings more than cooler weather. After the IRPF campaign closed on June 30 and straightforward refunds were paid through July and August, autumn is when the Agencia Tributaria turns to files that don’t match its databases. Between September and December, freelancers in particular can expect reque
rimientos - official requests for clarification when 2024 tax returns don’t align with third-party data.
Autonomos are most exposed because their income flows through multiple channels - clients, banks, TPV terminals, PayPal, and online platforms - creating more chances for mismatches. Triggers
are usually administrative, not intentional: platform payouts forgotten in the return, card payments not linked to income lines, or claiming car, phone and broadband at 100 per cent despite private use. Grants and subsidies from 2024, often taxable, can also be missed. A common red flag is when annual IRPF figures don’t reconcile with quarterly models (130/131) or VAT returns (303/390). Sometimes Hacienda even queries “external signs” like a new car or major renovations that clash with modest declared income.
The good news is that a requerimiento is not a fine. It’s a chance to confirm figures or correct mistakes. Read the deadline carefully, rebuild the evidence trail with invoices, bank records and platform statements, reconcile with quarterly filings, and if needed, file a voluntary correction. Upload documents neatly through the Agencia Tributaria portal and keep the receipt. Handled promptly, most cases are resolved before Christmas. Delays can lead to surcharges and penalties.
UK fraud law impacts expats
A PROPOSED UK anti-fraud law will allow banks to delay bank transfers for up to four days to investigate potential fraud, targeting the £460 million lost in 2023. This could impact expats in Spain relying on UK accounts for living expenses, bills, or business transactions.
The law extends the current 24-hour processing period by 72 hours, allowing banks to withhold payments if they suspect undeclared funds. Banks must notify customers of delays and compensate for interest or late fees, but cross-border claims may be complicated by time zones or language barriers.
International transfers to Spanish accounts, especially large sums or to unfamiliar recipients, may face increased scrutiny due to AI-based fraud monitoring, potentially delaying property purchases or supplier payments. Rocio Concha from Which? supports the measure but notes it shouldn’t affect most daily payments. To avoid delays, expats can use digital platforms like N26, Wise, or Revolut for near-instant transfers, though fees vary. From 2026, these platforms must report transfers to Spanish tax authorities, which may slow approvals. Currency brokers like Currencies Direct or Lumon offer fast, low-cost transfers for larger sums. For emergencies, Western Union or MoneyGram provide quick cash pickups at higher costs. Expats should plan transfers early, use Spanish accounts for routine expenses, or opt for multi-currency accounts to reduce reliance on UK banks.
Credit : fizkes, Shutterstock
From September Hacienda will start sending discrepancy letters on 2024 returns.
New hospital in Felanitx
The new Felanitx hospital will cost 26 million euros and is part of the 435-million-euro 2024-2027 Healthcare Investment Plan
The new Felanitx chronic care hospital will have a constructed area of 10,907 square metres and 100 single-occupancy double rooms to care for patients with chronic illnesses in the Llevant region.
These rooms, according to the Regional Ministry, will be designed to ensure patient comfort and well-being during their hospital stay. This new healthcare facility will provide comprehensive, high-quality care to patients with chronic illnesses who require convalescent or rehabilitation care to regain independence.
True luxury
ANNABEL restaurant, a new establishment located on Paseo del Mar in Palmanova (Calvià), has taken social media by storm after sharing the spectacular bill a group of customers paid this summer.
The bill totalled exactly 63,237.90 euros (54.697,94 GBP), a figure that has surprised diners due to its magnitude and the mystery surrounding it. Many must also be wondering, “How big was the tip on that bill?”
The high-end Calvia restaurant Annabel posted on Instagram a photo of a staggering, if not shocking, bill a client left behind, asking followers to guess whose it is
The restaurant launched a challenge on its Instagram profile with the phrase: “Whose bill is this? Please tag them below. We’d like to talk.” The post, accompanied by an image of the receipt and several of the drinks served, quickly sparked a heated debate among users.
An Instagram user identified as “satia6791” commented on the restaurant’s post, jokingly saying, “The Agencia Tributaria (tax authority) loves this photo.”
The restaurant is obviously a high-end establishment that, in addition to its gastronomic offerings, provides exclusive services such as valet parking for its customers.
The restaurant later confirmed that 18 diners were seated at the table and hinted that the group may have included a famous American sports star, according to the Majorca Daily Bulletin . The lavish spread was accompanied by high-end drinks and the venue’s trademark luxury service, including valet parking.
Huge shark washes
THE body of a sizable shark has washed up on Can Pere Antoni beach. The animal was found on the shore on Fri August 29, at tracting the at tention of several curious who were in the area.
A giant shark was found on a Mallorca beach with severe bite marks, although why it died remains a mystery.
In the images circulating online, the shark’s body shows a severe bite. Several users enjoying a day at the beach took the opportunity to take photos with the animal.
The tide has washed the shark’s remains up onto the shore of Can Pere Antoni, causing great excitement among bathers in the area, who were able to see the shark up close.
In July, the proposed Action Plan for the Conservation of Elasmobranchs in the Balearic Islands was presented at a meeting held within the framework of the Balearic Strategy for Elasmo -
beach. Swimmers and tou rists said they’d never been so close to such a fearsome animal.
The shocking find has reignited debate about sharks in Balearic waters. Just weeks ago, experts unveiled plans to step up protection for sharks and rays around the islands, warning that many species are in decline.
The plan encompasses a wide range of potential measures to enhance the conservation status of these species in the islands’ waters, as well as to manage fisheries from an ecosystem-based perspective.
Sofia Surfers’ visit
CONTENT creator Sofía Surfers has chosen Mallorca as one of her vacation destinations. Through her social media, the influencer has showcased the wonders of this paradise, specifically Cala Banyalbufar, located in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and characterised by its turquoise waters and picturesque pier.
Her visit in August is part of a more extended stay on the Balearic island, during which she also attended the Bresh music festival and participated in various water sports activities.
The cove, located between Punta de sa Galera and Pedra de s’Ase, has become one of the central locations for Sofia’s summer posts. This natural enclave stands out for its unique beauty on the Mallorcan coast, offering a peaceful setting far removed from mass tourism. Through her posts, the influencer’s
followers have been able to discover the unique characteristics of this beach, from its pebble and gravel floor to the freshwater waterfall that cascades down its cliffs.
The images shared by the content creator show an idyllic setting where the intense blue of the Mediterranean contrasts with the imposing cliffs of the Serra de Tramuntana, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, thus capturing the interest of thousands of followers seeking authentic destinations for their next getaways. This unique cove is characterised by its access via a staircase that descends to the beach, where visitors find a terrain composed mainly of pebbles and gravel, with some stretches of sand and posidonia.
Sofia Surfers has expressed her fondness for the island of Mallorca, among the many fascinating places.
Elrow XXL lit up Palma
PALMA was on fire on August 30, and not just because of the high temperatures. From 2pm to 2am, Son Fusteret was transformed into an electronic theme park with the arrival of Elrow XXL, which brought together 20,000 attendees for a 12-hour nonstop experience, with four stages that were truly parallel worlds.
The heart of the event, reminiscent of the 2018 edition, was the Psychrowdelic Trip - a kaleidoscopic explosion of creatures, fluorescent lights, and a psychedelic vibe that seemed to resurrect the spirit of the 1960s. There, the Martinez Brothers and Joseph Capriati led a journey of energy and groove.
Meanwhile, lovers of darkness found their temple at Industry City. Under the leadership of Deborah de Luca and Andrés Campo, techno and hard techno blew the Mallorcan crowd away.
Credit: @elrowofficial/Instagram
Jan Virgili joins Mallorca
the reserve team, eventually making a total of 17 appearances (eight starts), scoring four goals and providing two assists.
And, for the more adventurous, there was The Jail, a stage hidden behind bars and behind a dark tunnel that led to a clandestine rave. Elrow XXL not only
Spirituality, however, was preached in neon hues at the Pink Cathedral, where local DJs - Pep Tronik, Pep Vanrell, Jaume Colombas, Will DC, Sergi Ales, and Toni Joan - turned the altar into a dance floor.
deployed music, but also logistics: food trucks to withstand the marathon, buses reinforced by the EMT (Emergency Transportation Service) to transport the tide of attendees, and a lineup that included names like Anna Tur, Space 92, Patrick Mason, Discip, Javitoh, Chelina Manugutu, Rendher, Manu Sanchez, and many more.
JAN VIRGILI is RCD Mallorca’s most recently signed player for the next five seasons until June 30, 2030, the club announced via their website on Thursday, August 28.
The young 19-year-old striker arrives from FC Barcelona , a team he signed for in the summer of 2024 from Gimnàstic de Tarragona, the club stated.
Virgili, who says he looks up to Neymar, joined the Juvenil A team, with whom he has appeared in 33 matches, including the league, UEFA Youth League and Copa del Rey, and has scored seven goals.
His performances led to his debut with Barça Atlètic on January 25th of this year. From then on, Virgili continued to play for
“I’m very excited to meet my teammates and, above all, to make my debut in the First Division,” Virgili said. “I spoke with the coach, who gave me the confidence to come here and have opportunities. I hope to take advantage of them and please the fans.”
He debuted Saturday, August 30, in his team’s 2-1 defeat against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu, where the right-footed winger stood out for his speed, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring instinct. He reflected the day after, saying he was nervous but quickly adapted.
Dolphin season ending
TAKE the family while you still can to Marineland, whose fascinating dolphin shows close on September 22 and won’t reopen until May. Of course, you’ll have time to see them in the open sea until October, but only until October, as the season ends in April 2026.
Most dolphins appear in small groups off the coast of Mallorca. These grey marine mammals are a favourite with all children, and a boat trip to see them is one of the highlights of a holiday on the island.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see dolphins in Marineland before it closes on September 22, or out in the ocean until October.
The most common dolphin species in the Mediterranean is the white-striped dolphin, found in the temperate latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere.
Its white belly is a clear contrast to its dark grey back. Its doppelganger is the round-headed dolphin, which can grow up to four metres long. It lacks the beak-like snout, a characteristic feature of its relatives. The third dolphin species found off the
coast of Mallorca is the bottlenose dolphin. Its crescent-shaped fin is reminiscent of a shark at first glance. Bottlenose dolphins gained fame through the television series “Flipper,” which aired in the United States from 1964 to 1967.
In summer, dolphins escape from the coast of Mallorca, partly due to heavy boat traffic. To get in touch with the mammals, you must take a boat trip to the coastal waters - the only catch is that boat tours start early in the morning, around 5.30am.
Over 20,000 people attended this year’s edition of Elrow XXL, which has been a highly successful event in Mallorca’s Son Fusteret and Ibiza as well.
Jan Virgili debuted with RCD Mallorca against Real Madrid on Saturday, August 30.
Credit: Dave Primov/Shutterstock
Fera’s dining without borders
FERA is not just a restaurant; it’s a philosophy. While others may aim to replicate Mallorcan traditions, Fera offers a bold alternative: a respectful reinterpretation of the Mediterranean, guided by a global perspective and uncompromising standards.
Where Mediterranean sophistication meets boundless creativity, Fera embodies the spirit of the Mediterranean, blending a profound respect for local traditions and produce with a contemporary, global outlook.
It’s a place where culinary artistry transcends borders, offering a sensory journey
that redefines fine dining. A modern oasis where local produce and international culinary expertise harmonise, creating dishes that are deeply satisfying yet elegantly unexpected.
Fera’s Chef Simon Petutschnig champions a cuisine that exalts the spirit of Mallorca and its people. With over two decades of experience in Spain, his culinary journey is marked by a profound connection to local gastronomy, a path of self-discovery, and a commitment to continuous learning.
This journey has taken him from the serene hills of Eberstein, Austria, where he was born, to the warm shores of Mallorca. Fera is refined yet accessible: luxurious, but welcoming to all who appreciate quality. Fera is curious and adventurous: willing to push boundaries while respecting the roots of its ingredients.
Fera Palma Restaurant C/ de la Concepció, 4, Centre, 07012 Palma, Illes Balears
https://ferapalma.com/ 717 11 11 74
Melon Fest something different
A spicy event
THE Sa Pobla City Council presents the second edition of Sa Pobla Coenta, a gastronomic fair dedicated to the local cuisine. Following the success of the first edition, this meeting returns with renewed strength and new features to consolidate itself as an essential event in the municipality’s festive and culinary calendar.
Credit: SaPoblaCoenta /Instagram
On Saturday, September 13, the Plaça Major will once again be the setting for a day dedicated to gastronomy and the most intense flavours. This fair aims to reclaim the coenta, or local chilli, as a symbol of regional identity in the cuisine and, at the same time, open up to new proposals and experiences that add variety and creativity.
That is why the base product is the coenta, and it cannot be otherwise; we will find spices, oils, peppers, sauces, balsamic, and salsa. In the gastronomic part where the coenta is incorporated into elaborated products, you can taste among others: Panades, coques, cocarrois, cookies, ensaïmades, formats, bunyols, banderilles, confitures, gelats, so-
brassada, llonganissa, camaïot, botifarrons, fuets, mel and hydromel, coffee, and pastas of marjal.
With a new comptarem featuring a diverse multicultural gastronomic representation, we will be able to taste menjars from all over the world (Germany, Saragossa, Morocco, Senegal, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile).
To accompany all these local chillies, there will also be drink stands offering vermouths, wines, beers, soft drinks, and mojitos. The event signs off with the exciting Campionat de Mallorca of Spicy Chilli Eating.
Los Aurora at festival
in Vilafranca. And
Credit: Saraswati19/ Shutterstock
THE Meló Festival and Fair arrive once again in Vilafranca. And it does so with a programme filled with a wide range of activities this year from Thursday, September 4. It continues throughout the month, with special prominence on Saturday, September 6, when the traditional melon festival will take place in its 54th edition, followed by Sunday. September 7, the day of the melon fair, is in its 30th edition.
The programme generally follows the pulse of previous editions, consolidating traditional events and incorporating a wide range of activities. Thus, this year, the program-
The melon festival is in its 30th edition.
me once again includes activities that combine tradition and innovation, always, however, focusing attention on the main protagonist of the festival and on the emblem of Vilafranca that links it with part of its agricultural past and - still - present: the meló.
In this sense, it is wor-
ted to melon, the framework of
as a prelude to the al-
In this sense, it is worth highlighting the celebration of many workshops related to melon, the Lantern Festival, the Melofoc of the Boietons of Vilafranca, all this within the framework of the firó nocturn, with artisanal and local products, and as a prelude to the already traditional Revetlla of the Ffesta, with Géminis, Tomeu Penya and DJ Pep Vanrell and DJ Sergi Ales, among others. Also worthy of attention is the third edition of La Vila Got Talent, promoted by the Vilafranca Youth Association, scheduled for Friday, September 5. There will also be, once again, the melon-eating contest.
LOS AURORA, who will be at the d’Alcudia Auditorium on Saturday, September 9, revolutionised the national and international music scene with the release of their first album Aurora, with which they toured halls and festivals around the world. Korea, Canada, Chile, Hungary, Germany, Israel, Iceland and Russia are some of the countries where they have already performed.
Los Aurora remain immersed in the popular songbook, constantly revising it, and promise to maintain the energy and catharsis characteristic of their live shows.
La voz callada, their new show and future album, is a sound meditation that approaches mysticism. Musically we go back to the original cultures of fla-
Los Aurora is a flamenco-jazz group that revolutionised the national and international music scene.
menco, roots that are believed to have been born with the Roma migration that from Rajasthan (northern India and Pakistan), brought us to Spain both instruments and a large repertoire of dances and songs.
The proposal is inspired by the silent voices. The socially marginalised due to mental illness, those in prison, those who are on the street and who are invisible.
The dramaturgical line of the show is directed by director Martí Torres and is a journey from dawn to dawn, to awaken all the senses of the viewer.
At Ciutat Flamenco, they present a new live show, inspired by their upcoming album, La Balsa de la Medusa. The night, with its dark and dreamlike quality, unfolds on the stage of this new show, which explores various artistic references.
One of the hottest events during the Sa Pobla Coenta event is the spicy chilli pepper eating contest.
Credit: los_aurora/Instagram
Fera’s Chef, Simon Petutschnig, champions a cuisine that exalts the spirit of Mallorca and its people.
Credit: Fera website
EWN in crime novel
CHRISTINE SMITH is a much respected writer of crime fiction who in September will be publishing her third novel entitled Deadlier than the Male. She moved to Antas in Almeria in 2018 although she has lived in Spain since 2008 and her first published book recounted her decision to move from the UK (following a family tragedy) and the story of how she came to settle here.
A great lover of writing, she has created an intriguing series of murder mysteries featuring Morgan a retired CID officer retired to Spain and his friend Morales, an inspector in the Spanish police force. In this, the third Morgan/Morales story, Morgan’s wife, Sarah, an interpreter plays an important part as whilst browsing through Euro Weekly News in Torremolinos, she spots a story about the death of a man which is eeri ly similar to a death that occurs at the begin ning of the book.
Intrigued, she speaks to the reporter who penned the story and the investigation ca rries on from there, leading to a surprising, yet exciting discovery where good does triumph in a cracking story. Each of the three novels is entitled after a quote from a famous writer and in this case, ‘The fe male of the species is deadlier than the male’ is taken from a poem by Rud
INTERVIEW
yard Kipling, although many will remember the hit song with a similar title by the band Space which was released in 1996.
Although it may appear to be a costly operation to self-publish, in fact it is a relatively easy and inexpensive operation which Christine is happy to undertake.
“I don’t expect to make a lot of money from the novels, but it is something that I enjoy and I’m pleased to say my work is popular locally and through sales at Amazon and other sites.”
The first two books have now been translated to Spanish and the Antas Council has purchased copies for the local library whilst English versions are also available at bookshops in Antas and Vera. To find
Ernst Kraft: creating in Spain
DUTCH visual artist Ernst Kraft, at just 19 set off on a journey that would shape his life. “It wasn’t a holiday, it was indefinite travel. When you are that young, it leaves a deep mark. That trip became a before-and-after moment,” he said to Euro Weekly News.
During his time abroad, he witnessed some of Latin America’s most turbulent years: Pinochet’s coup in Chile, military kidnappings in Argentina, and dictatorships in Brazil and Paraguay. “Coming from the Netherlands, a rather dull democracy, I suddenly found myself in a society that was completely politicised, with forced disappearances and dictatorships.”
When he returned to the Netherlands he couldn’t explain everything that he had lived through. It was too much. “All I could say was that it had been an extraordinary journey. When I connected with a painter friend and worked in his studio, I realised I had found my place.”
Kraft also values the physicality of his creative process. “Especially with large canvases, you bend, you stretch – it’s physical work. I never paint sitting down. Preparing the canvas is also a time to think, to focus.”
After some years with his own studio in Amsterdam, he began questioning whether he wanted to spend the rest of his life there. “I thought about going back
Spain cash rule
SHOPS in Spain cannot refuse cash - and those ‘card only’ signs at the till risk hefty fines.
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has reminded businesses that cash is legal tender and must be accepted unless very specific limits apply.
The law is clear: dayto-day purchases must remain cash-friendly. Businesses can only refuse in narrow cases: transactions over €1,000 when one party is a business, payments made with more than 50 coins, or when a very large note can’t reasonably be changed. Anything else - including blanket ‘no cash accepted’ policies - breaches the rules.
Penalties range from €150 to €10,000, but serious cases can trigger fines of up to €100,000. Inspectors look harshly at shops that target vul -
nerable customers, act repeatedly, or cause disruption by turning away cash.
For consumers, the advice is simple: if a refusal doesn’t fall under the legal exceptions, you can request the official complaints form (Hoja de Reclamaciones) and file it with your regional consumer authority. Documenting the incident and signs helps back up the case.
Credit: Ernst Kraft
to South America, but most South American artists I knew wanted to come to Europe. So I thought about Spain. I already spoke the language, it was the perfect marriage. I started in Malaga about 32 years ago, and three years ago I moved to Finestrat, near Alicante.”
Born in 1952 in Bloemendaal and known for his abstract and gestural style, his work extends beyond canvas to include installations and sculptures in public spaces across several countries.
Ernst Kraft working in his studio.
Cash still counts.
Author Christine Smith.
Credit: Christine Smith
DHL detainment
A DHL DRIVER from Castrop-Rauxel has lost his job and been detained after a video surfaced of him attacking a couple. The driver, 21, began to punch a man, 54, and a woman, 42, after they had apparently complained about his parking style. In the video, the DHL driver claimed to be a boxer, which could land him a more serious charge.
Ta-ta, Toni
TONI, a one-year-old pygmy hippo, has said goodbye to her home, the Berlin Zoo, and been moved to a new institution in the French city of Mulhouse. There, the caretakers hope that she will mate with the other male hippo named Voobadee. Berlin residents were sad to see Toni go, as she had become quite the popular attraction at the zoo.
EURO PRESS
NETHERLANDS
Vexing Vincent
THE FAMED Van Gogh museum is warning of a closure risk in the midst of a dispute with the Dutch government.
The museum claims they are not able to carry out renovations without state support.
The buildings, which see 1.8 million visitors per year, and have had more than 50 years of heavy use, no longer meet safety standards.
Teeny tower
PORTUGAL ITALY FRANCE DENMARK BELGIUM
Portimão pyromania
AMIDST some of the worst wildfires Portugal has ever seen, a man has been arrested on suspicion of intentionally setting several forest fires in the Portimão area earlier in August. According to investigators, the man set the fires using matches in dry brush areas, using a motorcycle to quickly move areas. The man’s motive is yet unknown.
Portuguese powerups
US company Havi has chosen Lisbon as their strategic choice to invest €200 million for a global technology innovation centre. The Havi TechHub is poised to hire 70 more employees and open new facilities in the Portuguese capital in the coming months. The marketing consultant group has been operating in Portugal since 1993.
Para-cycling pump
RONSE, in East Flanders, was host to the Para-cycling World Championships on Thursday, August 28. The event brought together athletes from 54 countries, and it was the first time Belgium had hosted the event.
Belgium’s home team consisted of 11 riders, across handbike, tricycle and cycle classes.
Wolf war
A CONSERVATION row in Limburg has broken out after a pack of wolves killed a total of nine ponies in recent weeks. The attacks have prompted calls for a revision on the current wolf protection legislation. The pack is led by female wolf Noëlla, and has recently welcomed several new cubs.
Park plans
A NEW park spanning 30 hectares in Nordhavn, Copenhagen, is expected to begin construction in 2028.
The enormous park, called Nordør, will connect people and nature, and will be the first time in a generation that Copenhagen will create a large-scale urban park. The park is scheduled to open its doors by 2030.
Cocoa consolation
THE government of Denmark has stated that it will trash the taxes on coffee and chocolate in order to provide financial relief to households. The new measure will lower the price of a packet of coffee by approximately €0.66. While the move is set to benefit individuals, it will cost the Danish treasury an estimated €321 million.
NORWAY
Tokyo trip
FOR the first time in history, a Norwegian frigate has sailed into the Tokyo Harbour. The KNM Roald Amundsen, part of a larger Norwegian expedition involving four vessels, voyaged to Japan after an equally significant four-month expedition through the Indo-Pacific region to strengthen the NATO presence in Asia.
Aviation artifice
THE Civil Aviation Authority Norway has found that Polish airline SprintAir has violated local labour laws, as well as health, safety, and environmental regulations. The Authority found that the pilots were working partly as independent contractors, leaving it unclear whether they were temporarily or permanently employed.
FINLAND SWEDEN
Caffeine climb
A NEW doctoral study from the University of Jyväskylä has shown that energy drink consumption is now common among Finnish children as young as 11. Between 2014 and 2022, there was a significant rise in energy drink consumption, especially among 15-year-old girls, whose consumption increased sixfold during that period.
Pool pooper
THE city of Oulu has filed a criminal complaint after human excrement was found in the Linnanmaa swimming pool six separate times since the beginning of July. There is strong suspicion that the defecation was intentional, not accidental. Officials have amped up security around the swimming pool in order to identify the culprit.
Unauthorised use
DURING a surprise inspection of 60 Swedish schools, it was found that in 22 of them, students were using school tablets and computers to play games or watch movies during class time. Surprisingly, students favoured the devices provided to them by the school rather than their mobile phones, especially while doing individual work.
Populated prisons
ACCORDING to new statistics from the Crime Prevention Council, Sweden’s prison population has nearly doubled over the past 10 years. In the past year, 11,812 people began serving a sentence in Sweden, the highest number since 1996. Because of this, Sweden is facing an ongoing prison overcrowding conundrum.
A RETIRED metalworker, Jean-Claude Fassler, 77, and his grandson, Kilian Antenat, 22, have spent the last eight years making a 1/10 scale model replica of the Eiffel Tower in their garden. The tower, made in its original red colour, is still considerable in size - around 30 metres high - and is based on plans from Eiffel’s original drawings.
Returning remains
THE French government has returned three skulls to Madagascar, including one of a decapitated king. The skull belonged to King Ampanjaka Toera, who along with the Sakalava ethnic group, was killed by French troops during their colonial conquest of Madagascar 128 years ago. The skulls will receive a proper burial on the island.
Canal catastrophe
GERMANY IRELAND
TOURISTS in Venice found themselves making a splash when their gondola capsized and they ended up in the waters of a canal.
Reports suggest the boat tipped over from sudden movements by the passengers. With the help of bystanders, they were able to get out of the water unharmed by clinging to grates and boats.
Rainbow row
AN Italian councillor in Padua has been the target of controversy after she used rainbow ribbons to announce the birth of her son. Some say the choice to use these rather than traditional blue ones was an allusion to Pride. The councillor had previously said the ribbons represented the beauty of all colours rather than only pink or blue.
Harrowing hornets
A NEST of highly invasive Asian hornets was found in Cork city, following the amped up efforts by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The hornet is a particular point of concern for environmentalists, as they are the main predator for honeybees and can decimate populations of bees and other essential pollinators.
School strikes
MORE than 2,600 school secretaries and caretakers have gone on strike after three hours of exploratory talks have failed to yield an agreement. The workers claim they are being denied access to public sector pensions and other entitlements. The union, Fórsa, is looking for a commitment that access to pensions will be worked on.
Photo Credit: Ömer Gülen via Pexels
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Property auction
ANDALUCIA will launch its sixth major auction this September, selling more than 30 public assets deemed ‘underutilised or costly to maintain’, El Correo Web reports. Since 2019, auctions and direct sales have raised €138m, including Malaga’s Post Office and Granada’s Bank of Spain.
Fujitsu and Andalucia
FUJITSU, tied to the UK Post Office Horizon scandal, has secured a contract to develop AI software for Andalucia’s healthcare system. Critics warn of risks in entrusting sensitive medical data to the firm, which was heavily criticised for past failures.
Hospitality hit
UK Hospitality says restaurants, pubs, bars and hotels have lost 89,000 jobs since October - 53 per cent of national losses. Chair Kate Nicholls called the figures ‘staggering’ and warned closures could match Covid levels unless taxes and business rates are urgently cut.
TikTok UK revenue
TIKTOK’S UK revenues jumped 38 per cent in 2024 to $64 billion, filings show, as TikTok Shop became the nation’s fourth biggest beauty retailer. With 30m UK users, 1.5m businesses and 3,000 staff, the app’s future remains under political scrutiny.
Gas export
MOROCCO became Spain’s biggest gas client in June 2025, buying 858 GWh35.5 per cent of exports. France followed with 14.6 per cent. Despite exports falling 40 per cent year-onyear, analysts say Morocco’s growing share signals closer Madrid-Rabat energy ties amid shifting global markets.
STAT OF WEEK
The total value of Spanish startups has exceeded billion euros for the first time, doubling its size since 2020.
Spain’s sustainable development
SPAIN has unveiled a new system of international cooperation, with its first Partnership for Sustainable Development signed with Uruguay and further agreements underway with Egypt and Panama, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on August 20. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the framework, introduced under Spain’s Law on Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Global Solidarity, was designed to be ‘more effective’ in tackling global challenges. He described the partnerships as a ‘shared, multidimensional and non-linear process’, focusing on inclusive and innovative policies.
The first deal was formalised on July 22, 2025, during Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s official visit to Montevideo. Covering 2025–2029, the Spain–Uruguay agreement strengthens bilateral ties with priorities in security, cultural exchanges, and joint policies for equality,
employment, and sustainable production. According to the Ministry, the model also incorporates feminist, multilateral, and rights-based approaches, aiming to position Spain as a key player in shaping regional and global public goods. Work is progressing on similar partnerships with Egypt and Panama, which will expand cooperation
BII investment
BRITISH INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT (BII), the UK’s development finance arm, has invested ₹170 crore (€18.7m) in Altum Credo Home Finance, a Pune-based affordable housing lender. The deal, announced on August 25 aims to expand credit access for low-income households in India.
Founded in 2016, Altum Credo offers long-tenure home loans to first-time buyers with informal incomes. The fresh capital will fund expansion across southern and western India, while also improving technology and services like sanitation and electricity.
“We greatly value the continued support and confidence shown by British International Investment,” said CEO Vikrant Bhagwat (Business Standard). BII’s Shilpa Kumar said the partnership will help “low-income households, especially women, to access safer, more secure homes”
Rolser trolleys
SPANISH shopping trolley brand Rolser, founded in 1966, now sells in more than 60 countries, with 63 per cent of Spanish homes owning one, Monocle reports. Co-CEO Vicent Server said, “We have very special ties to this land... we threw our support behind the people of this area and tried to foster an industry that wasn’t tourism.”
This summer, Rolser launched a campaign to celebrate walking and conscious lifestyles. Once seen as old-fashioned, are trolleys now stylish?
beyond traditional aid to include civil society, universities, the private sector, and public institutions.
The Foreign Ministry said the initiative represents a shift in Spain’s foreign policy, aligning national efforts with regional and global priorities such as climate change, democracy, human rights, and care systems.
(Business Standard).
Altum Credo has served more than 15,000 customers and now has over $80 million (€73.5m) in total funding, reflecting strong investor interest in India’s housing finance industry.
Whistleblower authority
SPAIN launched its new Independent Whistleblower Protection Authority (AIPI) on September 1, following the publication of Ministerial Order PJC/908/2025. Part of Law 2/2023, which transposes the EU Whistleblower Directive, the AIPI oversees reporting channels, protecting whistleblowers, and sanctioning breaches. Businesses must appoint reporting officers and notify the Authority by November 1 or risk sanctions. Led by Manuel Villoria, with an advisory panel of legal experts, the body marks Spain’s first authority of its kind. But will it strengthen trust, or simply add red tape for companies?
BBVA has set out plans to grow its business in every market between 2025 and 2028, aiming for around €48 billion in profit, the bank announced on August 25. In Spain, lending is forecast to rise 5 per cent annually. Net interest income is forecast to rise, while revenues should see low to mid single-digit growth. BBVA also targets an efficiency ratio of 30-33 per cent and a 4 per cent return on risk-weighted assets.
LONDON-based Haylo Labs has acquired Plymouth’s Plessey Semiconductors, the UK specialist in embedded micro LED display technology, Semiconductor Today reports. Haylo Labs plans to invest over £100m in the UK over the next five years to boost production capabilities and expand the workforce.
David Hayes, Haylo Labs’ CEO and co founder, says, “Plessey has built the world’s most advanced micro LED platforms... with technology and talent that surpasses rivals anywhere globally.”
This acquisition could mark a turning point for UK tech.
Taqa buys GS Inima
ABU DHABI’S Taqa will acquire Madrid-based GS Inima, a leading desalination and water treatment firm, for $1.2 billion (€1.025bn), La Vanguardia reports.
The deal, agreed with South Korea’s GS Engineering & Construction, is expected to close in 2026 pending approvals.
GS Inima runs around 50 projects in 10 countries and last year posted €389 million in revenue and €106 million EBITDA. The acquisition strengthens Taqa’s global water portfolio, boosting desalination, wastewater, and industrial treatment capacity.
SPAIN’S government has suspended a €103 million cybersecurity contract awarded to MasOrange after a legal challenge from Telefónica, Economía Digital reports. The dispute centres on Lot 3 of the CORA III project, covering interconnection of state data centres and digital security. Telefónica argues the tender process lacked transparency and fairness.
With public cybersecurity at stake, should mega-contracts like this be spread more widely for resilience?
Spain-Uruguay agreement strengthens bilateral ties.
Pune city, India.
Euro
EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.86
EUR/USD: Up from $1.14 to $1.16
THE euro rose early in August thanks to the single currency’s strong negative correlation with a falling US dollar. However, weak economic data from Germany and the wider Eurozone stifled EUR’s potential as the month progressed. Russia-Ukraine news then infused EUR with volatility towards the end of the month amid a flurry of diplomatic activity focused on brokering a peace agreement. Overall the tone was cautiously optimistic, which lent EUR some support. Looking forward, the European Central Bank’s (ECB) policy decision could lift the euro, if the bank strikes a hawkish tone. However, political uncertainty in France and Russia-Ukraine news could drive volatility.
Pound
GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.15
GBP/USD: Up from $1.32 to $1.34
Currency outlook: US dollar slides as Fed prepares to cut interest rates, pound firms amid hawkish split at the BoE
The pound strengthened over the past month, with the Bank of England’s (BoE) surprisingly hawkish split decision providing the initial boost. Stronger-than-expected UK GDP and jobs data, along with another rise in inflation, further supported Sterling by reinforcing expectations that the BoE will take a slower approach to lowering interest rates over the coming months. At the end of August, the pound trimmed its gains. GBP investors grew increasingly anxious that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will rai-
se taxes again in her autumn budget, which could drag on economic growth. The BoE will meet to set policy again in mid-September. If the bank signals that it is no rush to cut rates again, the pound could gain ground.
US dollar
USD/GBP: Down from £0.75 to £0.74
USD/EUR: Down from €0.87 to €0.85
The US dollar plunged at the start of August after a staggeringly weak non-farm payrolls report
increased the likelihood that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates in September. US President Donald Trump also intensified his attacks on the Fed, while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called for a jumbo half-point rate cut, with this political interference weighing heavily on USD. Some positive US data and a risk-off mood helped the dollar claw back some of these losses. However, Fed Chair Powell indicated in a speech that the bank was gearing up for a rate cut, which undermined USD
once again, despite an uptick in inflation in July. The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates at its meeting in September, which could pile pressure on the US dollar. If the bank also signals that further cuts are likely, USD could slump. 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 euro rose in early August, but progress was somewhat stifled.
It’s good to be back
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
SO much has happened during my brief sojourn I feel that it will really take some time to actually catch up. Thank you so much for all your supportive mail, they truly warmed the ol’ boy’s heart. I was sorry to hear of the somewhat early passing of Ozzie Osbourne. Although his music was not a leading contender of this ol’ boy’s hit library I often admired his capabilities as an artiste and celebrity entertainer over the years. RIP Ozzie.
Although this ol’ boy has also enjoyed a share of so-called ‘stardom’ in the past, it never stops to amaze me how far some egotistical celebrities are prepared to go to convince the public they are so utterly special. Mariah Carey once took the bubble when she insisted that the promotors of a tour supplied someone to ‘handle her chewing gum’! Apparently, this young lady needed someone to pick it up and bin it after
she had spat it out.
Of course, yours truly has also had a few antics in the past. One which I will never actually forget was my first trip to the USA as a budding ‘chart topper’. On the way to Nashville to appear at the Grand Old Opry, I laid over in NY for a couple of days to do a bit of tele. Also there at the same time was Tom Jones. I had known Tom since the beginning of his career, when his manager Gordon Mills, who also managed me, was paying him 10 bob a week and changed his name from Woodward to Jones, to coincide with the popular movie playing worldwide at the time.
Tom was appearing at the Copacabana and also having a mad affair with the beautiful Mary Wilson of the Supremes, who were appearing for a week in the Blue Room of the prestigious Waldorf Astoria.
After seeing Tom at the ‘Copa’ on my first night I was subsequently invited to join him and Mary for a club crawl around the night spots of New York. To be honest I didn’t really enjoy it too much because they were recognised just about everywhere we
went and basically mobbed at every turn. My ‘Little Arrows’ was still rising up the charts and I certainly hadn’t reached the heights of my two companions. Nevertheless it was an interesting night and rounded off by Mary eagerly inviting me and Tom to have a table at the Waldorf the next evening. We would be able to see the show and after be joined as a foursome by herself and Diana, who she insisted, in her broad American accent, would truly ‘love me with my Beatle haircut and English accent’!
Consequently, at the end of our evening the ol’ boy made tracks for the hotel with a spinning head and a date for the following night with Diana Ross of the Supremes - who was gonna love me! Not a bad start to the ol’ boy’s USA visit. Unfortunately, later the next afternoon, still highly hungover, I succumbed to a deep slumber in a 24-hour cinema and missed the whole shebang. Ah well, onward and sideways. Good to be back.
Keep the Faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail .com
opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Spain’s buoyant
economy
ON Saturday, August 23, CNBC published an article on Spain, stating that its economy was growing at a pace much faster than its European neighbours, fuelled by tourism, foreign investment, and immigration.
Spain’s economy has also been bolstered by the European Union’s Next Generation EU funds, which have made €163 billion available to Spain, through grants and loans. The country is the second biggest beneficiary of this pandemic recovery assistance, following Italy.
Since investing in green energy in the 2000s, Spain has benefited from 40 per cent lower energy costs and experienced less impact from the European energy crisis that followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Foreign direct investment in Spain ranks fourth as the most attractive destination in the EU for investors. China alone has announced that it will invest up to €11 billion in Spain in 2025, as it prepares for a record 33 new projects in the country. Yet, the US remains the largest investor in Spain. The southern European country remains the leader in growth in the eurozone, with its annual gross domestic product forecasted to rise by 2.5 per cent this year. The economies of France, Germany, and Italy are forecast to expand by 0.6 per cent, 0 per cent, and 0.7 per cent, respectively.
New school dates
SPAIN has now confirmed its 2025/26 school calen dar, giving families across all autonomous communi ties the key dates they need to plan ahead. While the national framework is con sistent - with lessons be ginning in early September and finishing mid-to-late June - each region sets its own precise return days, Christmas breaks and Easter holidays.
On a national level, there are shared school closures for major holidays including October 12 (Fies ta Nacional), December 6 (Constitution Day), Decem ber 8 (Immaculate Conception) and May 1 (Labour Day). Beyond these, each community has its own calendar with local holidays and saints’ days. Christmas usually falls from late December into early January, while Easter varies between late March and early April, though Valencia stretches its Easter break
Classes restart in early September.
dents back on September 8, while the Community of Madrid staggers returns between September 8-9. Galicia begins on September 10, Andalucia around September 10-15, and Murcia, Navarra and La Rioja slightly later on September 11-12.
Families can maximise travel opportunities by
lencia, the extended Pascua (April 2-13) offers a rare chance for longer trips without extra leave. Regional celebrations such as Catalonia’s La Diada on September 11, Madrid’s Día de la Comunidad on May 2, or Andalucia’s February 28 create extra long weekends when combined with school closures.
Leapy Lee’s
Spain remains the leader in economic growth.
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol Rental boom
MALAGA PROVINCE is now Spain’s third most attractive destination for foreign renters, following the Balearic Islands and Alicante, according to a new Idealista report. As of August 28, 25.7 per cent of rental listing visits in the province came from abroad, mainly from British, German, and Dutch nationals. Malaga’s appeal lies in its climate, food, air connectivity, and quality of life, attracting tourists, retirees, and remote workers alike. Rental options range from city apartments to luxury villas, but prices are high- averaging €16.7 per square metre in July. That’s €1,336 for an 80m² flat, with Marbella topping the list at €20/m². These rising costs pose challenges for local residents.
Axarquia
Giant cake for tourists
TORRE DEL MAR celebrated its annual Día del Turista (Tourist Day) with a spectacular display of sweetness as thousands queued along the seafront for a slice of giant cake. Created by chef Roberto Soler, this year’s 8.5-metre-long cake served around 4,000 slices and featured a “sport and solidarity” theme, with decorations shaped like rackets, balls, and chess pieces. The cake included 35 metres of sponge soaked in spiced syrup, peach jam, and 350 kilos of vegetable cream. By 8.00pm, queues stretched along the promenade, filled with Spanish holidaymakers and locals alike. Deputy mayor Jesús Pérez Atencia called the event a way to thank visitors and share local traditions.
Costa Blanca North Bollywood to Buñol
THE 78th edition of La Tomatina, held on 27 August, saw a surge in Indian visitors after Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra featured in the film Heads of State, which opens with a six-minute scene recreating the iconic tomato fight. Over 1,000 people from India travelled to Buñol to join the messy festivities, highlighting Chopra’s international influence. The actress, known for her Bollywood and Hollywood roles, has a global fanbase and even collaborated with Pitbull on the hit Exotic. La Tomatina continues to attract worldwide attention, drawing visitors from China, Australia, the UK, and more, all descending on the small Spanish town of 10,000 for the famous tomato-throwing celebration.
Costa Blanca South History comes to life
AT 10am on Monday, September 1, Santa Pola’s Levante Beach became the stage for the dramatic Moorish Assault, a highlight of the town’s festival in honour of the Virgin of Loreto. Hundreds watched as Moorish groups arrived with vivid costumes, musket fire, and theatrical flair, recreating scenes from historic conquests. Organised by the Moors and Christians Festive-Cultural Association with Town Hall support, the event is a cultural favourite in the festival running from August 31 to September 8. The day continued with parades, the Moorish Embassy performance, and the Sostracà battle, complete with pyrotechnics. Evening celebrations kept the town alive, showcasing Santa Pola’s rich tradition and community spirit.
Almeria Foreigner frenzy
WITH its stunning beaches, charming towns, and natural beauty, Almeria remains a top destination for visitors and those looking to settle. A recent report by rental platform Idealista confirms its popularity among foreigners, ranking it among the top Spanish provinces for rental demand. Almeria accounted for 15.8 per cent of foreign housing demand, competing with hotspots like Las Palmas and Girona. Germans and Britons lead the rentals at 13 per cent and 12 per cent, followed by the French at 9 per cent. Popular areas include coastal towns like Garrucha, Mojacar, and Vera. For those familiar with Almeria, its appeal is clear- mild weather, crystal-clear waters, and rich wildlife make it a coastal gem for international visitors.
Costa Calida
A royal visit
PRINCESS LEONOR, heir to the Spanish throne, has begun her next stage of military training at the General Air and Space Academy (AGA) in San Javier - where her father, King Felipe VI, trained in the late 1980s. Joining as an alférez Borbón with the 78th class, she will follow a condensed fourth-year program to prepare for flying Pilatus training aircraft, starting with 50 hours on flight simulators. Officials stress she will receive no special treatment, with days beginning at 6.30am and ending at 10.00pm. Alongside training in piloting, drones, and space operations, she will continue royal duties. Defence Minister Robles praised her dedication and example for young people.
PETS
When I turn up as the house-sitter…
PEOPLE are often surprised when they open a house-sitter application on our secure site and find that I am the one who’s applied to care for their pets. Yes, it’s me Lamia, the owner of HouseSitMatch and I would like to be your designated house-sitter. Why? Well because I love animals and discovering new locations just like our many house-sitters. That’s the joy of house-sitting, discover a new location in the company of adorable pets and exchange your time for free accommodation. All you pay for is an annual membership fee to join our club. It’s a win win!
The pet-sitters come for Free!
And, 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!
Choose Housesit Match for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:
1. Register as a Homeowner or a House-sitter, depending on your motivation, on HouseSitMatch.com
2. Choose a Standard account (£ 89 GB per year) to ensure you
How do you join?
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?
HouseSit Match can help you find suitable sitters or a new place to discover as a house-sitter. Join our network for a small fee, get ID checked for safety and build your advert or house-sitter profile. It’s done in minutes!
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Pure Joy - I have completed two house-sits so far so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog
Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more!
Lisa Stimpson, Pet-sitter, UK
Please register online via our website Housesitmatch.com Need a pet- or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting benefits both parties, free house- and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation!
Whiff warning
YOU light a scented candle or spritz a new room spray and suddenly your cat is glaring at you from the doorway, ears back and tail twitching. Cats have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell, and while we may enjoy certain aromas, to them they can be completely off putting.
Citrus scents like lemon, orange and grapefruit are top of the feline dislike list, often causing them to recoil or avoid the area altogether. Strong smells such as menthol, vinegar, lavender and eucalyptus can also make your cat uncomfortable, so it is best to avoid using these indoors where they spend time.
Harsh cleaning products and heavily perfumed sprays may also do more harm than good in a cat friendly home.
On the other hand, those same scents can come in handy for deterring neighbourhood cats from digging in your garden. Scat-
tering orange or lemon peel, or using a citrus based spray, can help mark your flower beds as a no go zone, politely, of course.
FEW things surprise cat owners more than finding an unexpected ‘gift’ from their furry friend. Whether it is a toy dropped at your feet or something less appealing, such as a small rodent, this behaviour is rooted in your cat’s instincts and affection for you.
Cats are natural hunters, and even well-fed pets feel the urge to stalk and catch prey.
When a cat presents you with a gift, they may be sharing their ‘catch’ as they would with members of their family in the wild. For indoor cats, the
TIP
offerings are often less dramatic, ranging from crumpled paper and socks to favourite toys.
Outdoor cats, however, may proudly deliver insects, birds or mice.
While these presents might not always be welcome, they are often meant as a sign of trust and connection.
The best way to respond is with gentle praise, before quietly disposing of any unpleasant gifts. Providing engaging play and hunting style toys can help channel these instincts in a cleaner, more convenient way.
Attending nature’s call
IT is possible to toilet train your pets. It gives them the freedom to wander around the house without having accidents. You should make sure that at least one litter box is provided for cats. During the day, puppies need a potty break every one or two hours. A dog’s ability to hold it for hours varies depending on the age. Make sure you clean the area regularly to avoid dirt and bacteria accumulating.
Shutterstock / InessaNik
Lamia loves animals and housesitting in new places.
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VW Polo Black Edition ticks all the boxes
ROAD TEST
By Mark Slack
UNBELIEVABLY, Volkswagen’s Polo has been with us for half a century and today’s range still pursues the original aim of affordable quality motoring. While the current range may have more competition, and at cheaper prices, the VW feeling of quality does shine through even on this, their entry level supermini.
Prices for the Polo range start from €24,862/£21,470. There are seven trim levels and standard equipment across the line-up includes auto lights and wipers, cruise control, air conditioning, power folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors, LED lights, parking sensors, auto dimming rear view mirror and CarPlay plus Android Auto.
Facts at a Glance
• Model: Volkswagen Polo Black Edition
• Engine: 1.0-litre TSi, turbocharged, 3-cylinder developing 115PS
• Gears: 7-speed DSG automatic
• Price: €30,826/£26,620
• Performance: 9.8 secs to 100 kph/62 mph Maximum speed 201 kph/125 mph
• Economy: 4.69l per 100 km/50.1 mpg combined driving
• Emissions: 129g/km
Polo power comes largely in 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol form with power outputs ranging from 80PS through to 115PS and all bar the entry-level engine, are TSi units. The Polo GTI has a 2.0-litre TSi with 207PS and a 241kph/150mph top speed with the benchmark 100kph/62mph passed in just 6.5 seconds. Transmissions are either six-
My test model didn’t have the oomph of the GTi model but the 115PS, 1.0-litre TSi powering the Polo Black Edition, with seven-speed DSG automatic, passes the 100kph/62mph measurement in a whisker under 10 seconds and is more than capable. Priced at €30,826/£26,620 standard fare on the Black Edition models is generous with heated front sports seats, smart phone charging, high beam assist, dual zone AC, heated folding and adjustable door mirrors, adaptive cruise, the list continues. There is a welcome array of buttons and the fact the digital touchs-
Car cameras increase
SPAIN’S drivers are about to meet their new co-pilots: Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS), set to become standard in all new cars thanks to upcoming EU safety rules. These discreet dashboard cameras, already rolling out in models from Renault to BMW, use artificial intelligence to spot if you’re drowsy, distracted, or simply not paying attention. The system doesn’t just beep - it actually ‘watches’ your face, learns your typical habits (how often you blink, where you look), and issues friendly nudges when your focus slips. If you ignore the warnings, some cars can even slow down or take action to keep you safe.
Why all the surveillance? The EU is on a mission to cut road deaths caused by fatigue, inattention, and even drink-driving. With over 90 per cent of accidents blamed on human error, officials hope DMS will help prevent thousands of crashes a year. Forget the era when your car only cared about seatbelts or oil changes; now
it’s got your back (and your eyelids) covered, acting like a helpful mate rather than an intrusive ‘Big Brother’. And this isn’t just a luxury-car gimmick anymore. Euro NCAP, Europe’s car safety watchdog, now rates all new vehicles on their DMS features, and Spain is following suit. That means even affordable family cars will soon be equipped to monitor your attention and well-being on the road.
Not everyone’s thrilled about the idea of being ‘watched’ behind the wheel, but most drivers will likely accept the tech if it leads to safer journeys.
much more useable and less frustrating drive. The seats are superbly comfortably and despite its diminutive size offers decent space for both front and rear seat passengers. Although a three-cylinder engine of small capacity there’s an admirable refinement, unless you really push the power, and enough verve when required.
As with most VW models there is a restrained and understated style to the Polo, it’s classy and classless rather than adopting the more aggressive look of many competitors. Although there are some hard plastics inside the Polo there is a
Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets
general feeling of quality lacking in similar models from other manufacturers. If you want a supermini that’s just as at home in the city, rural lanes or motorway then the Polo ticks all the boxes. It’s discreet and has a name, VW, that is rightly considered a class above the norm. It simply has to be on your shopping shortlist.
Modern cars are keeping an eye on drivers.
Millionaire who stole a kid’s cap crushed online
THE US Open used to have a lot of drama on the court, but these days the headlines were stolen by a man in the stands. A viral clip has put Polish CEO Piotr Szczerek and his company Drogbruk under fire after he was filmed grabbing a signed cap from tennis player Kamil Majchrzak. It was the fastest backhand grab of the tournament, too bad it didn’t even happen on the court.
The big problem? That cap was clearly meant for a young fan, not for him. The footage shows Majchrzak, fresh off his stunning win against topten seed Karen Khachanov, heading to the stands to give his hat to a boy named Brock. Just as the kid reached out, Szczerek swooped in and stuffed the prize into his partner’s bag. Social media erupted, branding him everything from “selfish” to “the hat thief of Flushing Meadows.” Piotr Szczerek, 51, co-founded the
in 1999
The company deals in paving stones, fences, and decorative landscaping materials. If he wanted a worldwide brand, he just got one. But not at all in a positive way.
Majchrzak quickly stepped in to smooth things over, meeting Brock again and giving him a fresh hat. Meanwhile, Drogbruk’s social media has gone into damage control, limiting comments and staying silent as the clip continues to rack up millions of views worldwide.
paving and landscaping giant Drogbruk
alongside his wife, Anna.
The moment when Piotr Szczerek became famous.