Night to remember Puerto Portals turns 40
Luxury marina threw glamorous bash to mark the milestone
ONE of Mallorca’s most prestigious marinas celebrated a major milestone in spectacular style as Puerto Portals marked its 40th anniversary with a glamorous evening.
The exclusive celebration brought together leadinggures from business, sport, fashion and entertainment to commemorate four decades since the luxury marina rst opened in 1986. Guests enjoyed an elegant evening among the yachts, with live music, ne dining and tributes to the vision that transformed Puerto Portals into one of Europe’s best-known marinas.
A host of well-known names attended the event, including Victoria de Marichalar, television presenter Joaquín Prat, writer Boris Izaguirre, model Mar Flores and presenter Fiona Ferrer. Olympic champions Marcus Cooper and Lidia Valentín were also among the guests, alongside representatives from politics, nance and the nautical industry.
The Mayor of Calvia, Juan Antonio Amengual, and the Balearic Government’s Minister for Enterprise, Self-Employment
DJ Fatboy Slim’s sensational Mallorca performance has since gone viral
and Energy, Alejandro Sáenz de San Pedro, were also present, underlining the marina’s importance to Mallorca’s tourism and economy.
During the evening, Puerto Portals CEO Corinna Graf paid tribute to her father, Dr Klaus Graf, whose vision was to create more than a marina by combining luxury boating
with restaurants, boutiques, leisure and culture in a single waterfront destination.
Following the speeches, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception prepared by restaurants based in Puerto Portals before live band
The Tutsies and DJs kept the celebrations going late into the night. Social media was soon lled with images
Credit: Instagram/PuertoPortals
of the glittering event, with luxury yachts providing the perfect backdrop.
Today, Puerto Portals is home to luxury boutiques, waterfront restaurants and an extensive calendar of events, attracting visitors from around the world. Four decades after opening, the marina remains one of Mallorca’s most iconic destinations.
FATBOY SLIM had Mallorca dancing from start to finish as the legendary DJ delivered an unforgettable headline performance at Es Jardi in Calvia.
The British dance music icon, whose real name is Norman Cook, took to the decks to a huge reception before launching into a set packed with career-defining hits. Classics including The Rockafeller Skank and Praise You had the crowd singing and dancing throughout the night, while creative remixes, including an Elton John mash-up, were accompanied by spectacular visuals and dazzling lighting. It was a celebration of dance music at its finest, as Mallorca turned out in force to praise the iconic DJ.
Fatboy Slim became one of the biggest names in electronic music during the 1990s, helping popularise the big beat genre with chart-topping albums. More than 40 years into his career, he remains one of dance music’s most enduring performers.
Es Jardi has become one of Mallorca’s premier summer concert venues, bringing major international artists to the island in a unique open-air setting.
Mallorca I No. 2140 I 9 - 15 July 2026 I FREE Newspape r
Star-studded event.
Michael in Mallorca
Sipping by the sea
HOLLYWOOD icon Michael Douglas is back in Mallorca, continuing a decades-long tradition of spending part of the summer on the island he has loved for nearly 40 years.
The Oscar-winning actor gave fans a glimpse of his latest stay by sharing a video on Instagram from Mallorca, where he spoke warmly about one of the island’s cultural attractions, the Sa Bassa Blanca Museum near Alcudia.
Douglas first fell in love with Mallorca in the late
1980s when he purchased the historic S’Estaca estate, perched on the coastline between Valldemossa and Deia in the Serra de Tramuntana.
The sprawling property has become one of the island’s most recognisable celebrity homes, offering privacy and stunning Mediterranean views.
Over the years, the actor has become one of Mallorca’s most famous international ambassadors, frequently praising its landscapes, relaxed pace of life and rich
Credit: Instagram/MichaelDouglas
WINE LOVERS gathered on the waterfront in Colonia de Sant Pere on Saturday, July 4, as the Raïm Wine Fest returned, bringing together 15 wineries from across Mallorca for a celebration of the island’s flourishing wine scene.
culture. He has often spent extended holidays on the island with family and friends, making Mallorca a regular summer retreat.
Douglas shares two children, Dylan and Carys, with actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, and the family have been photographed enjoying restaurants, beaches and villages across the island during previous visits.
A longstanding champion of Mallorca, Douglas is once again showcasing the island to a global audience.
Held along the picturesque seafront promenade, the popular event combined local wine tastings with live music, food trucks and a lively Mediterranean atmosphere, attracting residents and visitors keen to sample some of Mallorca’s finest vintages.
Organised by Vi de la Terra Mallorca, Raïm Wine Fest has become one of the island’s best-loved summer food and drink events.
Rather than staying in one location, the festival tours different Mallorcan towns each year, giving wine producers the opportunity to showcase their wines to new audiences while highlighting the diversity of vineyards across the island.
The festival also celebrates Mallorca’s rich winemaking heritage, with
many participating bodegas producing wines using traditional local grape varieties such as Manto Negro, Callet and Prensal Blanc alongside more familiar international varieties.
Visitors enjoyed the chance to meet winemakers, discover new labels and pair local wines with a selection of food from visiting vendors, all against the backdrop of the Bay of Alcudia.
The celebrations continue this weekend, with the Raïm Wine Fest heading to Portocolom on Saturday, July 11, for another evening dedicated to Mallorca’s wineries, local gastronomy and live entertainment.
Basic Instagram! Michael spoke to fans about his favourite museum.
A successful Raïm Wine Festival at Colonial Sant Pere.
Credit: ViDaLaTerra
Support under review
CHILD CARE BENEFIT REFORM PLANNED
PARENTS in Spain caring for seriously ill children could receive wider financial protection under a government plan to update the Social Security benefit for the care of minors affected by cancer or another serious illness.
The benefit, known in Spain as CUME, supports working parents, adoptive parents, or foster carers who reduce their working hours and salary because a child needs direct, continuous and permanent care.
The Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration says the reform will adapt the rules to new medical and family realities, including cases where children need intensive care at home rather than long hospital stays.
The government says the benefit currently supports around 19,000 beneficiaries, with €355 million dedicated to it. In 2018, it reached fewer than 6,000 families.
The proposed changes include updating the list of covered illnes -
ses, allowing doctors to certify new care situations, extending renewal periods, and improving extensions.
However, the Federación Española de Diabetes (Spanish Diabetes Federation, FEDE) has warned that some parts of the draft could still restrict access for families if care is judged too narrowly.
The reform is still a proposal, not final law, so families should check the approved wording before relying on any change.
Inbox, not letterbox
BENEFITS GO DIGITAL
THOUSANDS of people receiving Social Security benefits in Spain will stop receiving official letters by post from September 1, as the government moves to electronic notifications. Under new rules in Spain’s Official State Gazette, many workers on sick leave, maternity or paternity leave, and those receiving certain disability-related payments will instead need to check their online Social Security account.
Introduced through Order ISM/541/2026, the change expands digital notifications for benefits linked to birth, childcare, pregnancy risk, temporary incapacity, permanent disability and non-disabling permanent injuries. Rather than sending paper letters, Social Security will notify recipients electronically when a new document
is available. Users will receive an alert directing them to the Social Security Electronic Headquarters. Authorities urge people to update their contact details to avoid missing important decisions.
The government notes that most recipients are already familiar with online administration or have access to digital devices.
However, paper notifications will not disappear completely; traditional mail may be used for urgent action or if electronic contact details are unavailable. Anyone needing help can visit a Social Security Information and Assistance Centre. Part of a wider digitalisation of public administration, this reform places greater responsibility on benefit recipients to monitor their online accounts regularly.
Power tax cuts
Bills may change
SPAIN’S government has approved the gradual removal of the 7 per cent electricity generation tax, a change ministers say could eventually reduce some electricity bills.
The tax, officially called the Impuesto sobre el Valor de la Producción de Energía Eléctrica (IVPEE), is paid by electricity producers rather than directly by households. However, because it affects costs inside the wider electricity system, the government says its removal should help consumers. The tax will be reduced during 2026, cut to 3.5 per cent in 2027 and removed completely in 2028. Spain’s Minister for Ecological Transition, Sara Aagesen, said the effect on bills would vary by consumer, but could reach up to 6 per cent. Residents should not assume every bill will fall immediately. The final amount paid depends on the contract, consumption, supplier terms, regulated or free-market tariff, VAT and other electricity charges.
The measure is also aimed at helping industry and encouraging electrification, with the government estimating higher industrial production and around 3,700 jobs. Households are advised to keep checking contract type, renewal dates and price per kilowatt hour before assuming savings will be automatic.
euroweeklynews.com
Spain’s Social Security will stop sending paper letters to many workers from September.
Taxpayers in Spain could save €315 million in 2026 with 7 per cent power tax cuts.
For some families, care does not end when the hospital visits do.
Balearic bookings soar Kaos turns heads
ONE of the Mediterranean’s most impressive superyachts has been making waves off the coast of Mallorca after arriving in Balearic waters for the summer season.
The 110-metre Kaos, owned by Walmart heiress Nancy Walton Laurie, has been spotted cruising near Camp de Mar before anchoring in Palma Bay. Valued at around €263 million, the striking vessel has quickly become one of the most talked-about yachts on the island’s coastline.
Originally built by Dutch shipyard Oceanco and launched in 2017 as Jubilee, the
yacht was later purchased by Laurie and renamed Kaos. At the time of its launch, it was the largest yacht ever built in the Netherlands.
The luxury vessel can ac-
commodate up to 31 guests across 15 cabins and is staffed by a crew of around 45.
On board are facilities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, cinema, beach club, helipad and even a lift connecting its decks, offering all the comforts of a floating five-star resort.
The arrival of Kaos adds to another busy summer for Mallorca’s luxury yacht scene, with the island once again attracting some of the world’s largest and most valuable private vessels as visitors and locals enjoy the spectacle from the shoreline.
HOLIDAY bookings to the Balearic Islands have risen by 10.3 per cent compared with the same period last year, pointing to another busy summer.
New figures from travel technology platform Travelgate show the Balearics accounted for 15.5 per cent of all bookings made over the past week, making the islands Spain’s third most popular holiday destination behind Cataluña and Andalucia. Bookings also increased by almost 19 per cent over the previous week as demand continues to build ahead of the peak season.
Spain is forecast to welcome around 43 million international visitors between June and September, with tourism spending expected to reach €64 billion during the four-month period.
Domestic travellers account for the largest
share of bookings at 48.6 per cent, while British holidaymakers remain the biggest international market, representing 21.6 per cent of reservations. German visitors account for 4.5 per cent.
The figures also show couples make up the largest booking group, with stays of between two and five nights proving the most popular.
The positive outlook comes after Spain welcomed 36.8 million international visitors between January and May, a 3.2 per cent increase on the same period last year. Tourist spending reached more than €50.2 billion, up 7.8 per cent.
Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu has said Spain could exceed 100 million international visitors during 2026 if current trends continue.
Risen by 10.3 per cent.
Superyacht anchors in Mallorca.
British mum stranded
A BRITISH mother has warned holidaymakers to check the latest travel rules after she and her two-year-old daughter were left stranded in Mallorca when they were refused boarding on their flight home.
According to reports, 25-year-old Tegan van der Merwe had been enjoying a holiday on the island before attempting to return to the UK. Although she has lived in Britain for more than 20 years, she was travelling on a South African passport.
When she arrived at the airport, airline staff told her she could not board because she did not have a valid UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which is now required for many travellers entering Britain on certain passports.
Without the necessary approval, airlines can refuse boarding because they are responsible for ensuring passengers meet UK entry requirements before departure.
The unexpected problem left the family facing additional costs, including accommodation and replacement travel,
while the correct documentation was arranged.
The case has highlighted the importance of checking travel requirements before flying, particularly for dual nationals or those travelling on non-British passports.
Travellers are advised to confirm whether they need a visa, ETA or other digital travel permit based on the passport they intend to use, rather than assuming residency alone is enough to guarantee entry.
Rubbed the wrong way
PALMA’S Local Police have launched a summer campaign targeting unlicensed beach massage therapists, issuing 30 fines during a week-long operation on Playa de Palma, Can Pere Antoni and Cala Major. Officers also confiscated oils, creams, towels and other equipment used during the treatments. Those providing massages without authorisation face fines of between €750 and €1,500 under the city’s Civic Coexistence Ordinance. Police say
inspections will continue throughout the summer.
The crackdown is driven by concerns over public safety rather than unlicensed trading alone.
formal beach operators often leave customers with no receipt, insurance or way to identify the therapist if problems arise later. The campaign also aims to protect licensed massage businesses, which must meet professional and hygiene standards while competing against illegal operators offering cheaper services.
Authorities warn that many beach massage operators work without recognised qualifications, health inspections or hygiene standards, leaving customers unaware of who is treating them or what products are being used. Incorrect techniques or poor hygiene could lead to skin reactions, infections or physical injuries.
Police also highlight the lack of accountability. Unlike registered massage businesses, in -
For visitors, authorities recommend thinking carefully before accepting a massage on the beach. While it may seem like a cheap holiday treat, police say many people never consider whether the person offering the treatment is qualified or operating legally.
Passport rule prevented them from flying home.
Criminal croc
GUARDIA CIVIL officers have seen their fair share of crazy while protecting and serving, but even the most seasoned officers were surprised to find an alligator in a private residence during a recent raid in Sevilla.
Until that point, the search was nothing to note, a reported routine drug bust in the Los Pajaritos neighbourhood. It was the discovery of the exotic reptile that makes this case so unique.
Upon discovery, the reptile was immediately taken into custody by the Nature Protection Service, Seprona. Measuring half-a-metre long, the alligator
was initially misidentified as a crocodile but experts have since clarified it is a young spectacled caiman, a species capable of growing up to 2.5 metres long.
It is yet unknown how the Los Pajaritos residents came into possession of the alligator, or how long it had been in their care.
The alligator has since been relocated to Mundo Park in Guillena, an authorised zoo with trained staff and suitable habitats for this type of reptile. There the alligator will start anew, away from the life of crime it had previously led in Sevilla.
Boiling on a plane
PASSENGERS on a flight from Vigo to Madrid faced an uncomfortable and frustrating ordeal after an apparent air-conditioning failure left them trapped inside a grounded aircraft in soaring temperatures.
Travellers said the cabin became unbearably hot while engineers attempted to repair the fault before departure. Several passengers claimed temperatures approached 50°C, with families, children and pregnant women among those forced to remain on board for more than an hour before the flight was eventually cancelled.
The problems continued after passengers returned to the terminal. Many criticised the lack of information and were left scrambling to find alternative ways to reach Madrid. Some hired cars at their own expense for the six-hour journey, while others waited for replacement flights, arriving in the capital several hours later than planned.
Aircraft rely on onboard or ground-based cooling systems while parked before take-off. If those systems fail during periods of extreme heat, cabin tem-
peratures can rise rapidly, particularly once passengers have boarded and the aircraft doors are closed.
Although incidents like this remain uncommon, the disruption highlights the challenges airlines face during summer heatwaves and raises fresh questions about passenger welfare when technical faults occur before departure. For those caught up in the delay, what should have been a routine domestic flight became an exhausting day of uncertainty before they finally reached their destination.
Young alligator found during police raid.
Many criticised the lack of information.
Photo credit: Margus Vilbas/Shutterstock
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Hear better, live better with General Optica Santa Ponsa
GOOD hearing is something many of us take for granted, until we begin missing parts of conversations, asking people to repeat themselves or turning the television up just a little louder. The good news is that modern hearing solutions are more advanced, discreet and comfortable than ever before, and there’s never been a better time to have your hearing checked.
At General Optica Santa Ponsa, caring for your hearing is every bit as important as looking after your eyesight. Conveniently located on Avenida Rei Jaume I, the experienced team offers professional hearing assessments, personalised advice and a range of innovative hearing solutions tailored to your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’ve recently noticed changes in your hearing, or a loved one has suggested it’s time for a check-up, their qualified hearing specialists are there to guide you every step of the way.
For a limited time, General Optica is making it even easier to improve your
quality of life with an exceptional 50 per cent discount on selected hearing aids. This outstanding promotion offers an affordable opportunity to experience the latest technology, with hearing aids designed to deliver crystal-clear sound while remaining incredibly small, lightweight and comforta-
hearing aids do far more than simply amplify sound. They intelligently reduce background noise, enhance speech clarity and automatically adapt to different environments, helping you feel more confident, whether you’re enjoying dinner with friends, spending
time with family or simply taking a stroll around Santa Ponsa.
General Optica has built a reputation throughout Spain for combining expert care with trusted brands and outstanding customer service. At the Santa Ponsa branch you’ll find a welcoming multilingual team dedicated to helping residents and visitors alike enjoy better hearing and better vision. Alongside comprehensive hearing care, the store also offers eye examinations, prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, retinal imaging and glaucoma screening, making it a complete destination for your visual and auditory wellbeing.
If you’ve been thinking about having your hearing tested, or know someone who could benefit, now is the perfect time to act. Visit General Optica Santa Ponsa, take advantage of the 50 per cent hearing aid promotion, and rediscover the sounds you’ve been missing. Sometimes, the smallest change can make the biggest difference to everyday life.
ble to wear.
Modern
Spectacular sea festival
PUERTO DE POLLENSA is preparing for one of Mallorca’s most spectacular summer celebrations as the Mare de Déu del Carme festivities return, bringing music, traditions and a breathtaking maritime procession to the waterfront.
The celebrations are underway and run until Monday, July 13, but the main feast day takes place on Thurday, July 16, in honour of the Virgin of Carmen, patron saint of fishermen and seafarers. Visitors can enjoy live music, family entertainment, traditional dancing, sporting events and cultural activities, with the harbour and Plaza Miquel Capllonch becoming the heart of the celebrations.
The highlight comes on July 16 when the statue of
the Virgin is carried from the church to the port before being placed aboard a decorated fishing boat. It is then escorted across the Bay of Pollensa by a flotilla of flower-covered boats as priests bless the fleet and pay tribute to sailors who have lost their lives at sea.
The moving procession draws thousands of spectators every year, with the illu-
Have a ball in Bini
TRADITIONAL Mallorcan culture takes centre stage this summer as Ball a la Fresca returns to Binissalem with a series of free open-air dance evenings throughout July and August.
minated boats creating one of Mallorca’s most memorable summer sights.
As night falls, the festivities end with a spectacular fireworks display over the bay.
Blending centuries-old traditions with a lively programme of entertainment, the Mare de Déu del Carme festivities remain one of the island’s most cherished summer events.
Held in the picturesque Plaza de la Iglesia, the popular event invites both locals and visitors to enjoy the island’s traditional ball de bot folk dancing beneath the stars. Accompanied by live music, performers dressed in traditional Mallorcan costume showcase dances that have been passed down through generations, helping to keep one of the island’s oldest customs alive.
The relaxed atmosphere means spectators are encouraged to get involved, whether by learning a few dance steps or simply enjoying the music from the edge of the square. It’s an authentic cultural experience that offers something very different from Mallorca’s beach clubs and nightlife.
Running on selected Friday and Saturday evenings from early July until the end of Au-
gust, Ball a la Fresca has become a highlight of Binissalem’s summer calendar.
Known for its wineries and charming historic centre, Binissalem also makes the perfect destination for an evening out, with plenty of restaurants and cafés nearby.
For anyone wanting to discover a more authentic side of Mallorca this summer, Ball a la Fresca offers the chance to enjoy live music, traditional dancing and a welcoming community atmosphere in one of the island’s most beautiful village squares.
Can Tàpera nights
PALMA’S popular Les Nits de Can Tàpera concert series returns this July, bringing four evenings of live music to the gardens of Can Tàpera.
Running every Thursday from July 9 to July 30 , the annual open-air event offers a varied programme featuring traditional music, zarzuela, rock and a cappella performances in one of the city’s most picturesque outdoor venues.
The series opens on July 9 with Ben Trempats, performing a lively mix of traditional seafaring songs, habaneras and popular favourites. On July 16, audiences can enjoy Sarsuela a la Fresca, with soprano Maia Planas, tenor Vicenç Esteve and baritone Pablo López joined by pianist Jesús
Four evenings of music under the stars.
López for an evening celebrating Spain’s muchloved zarzuela tradition.
Mallorcan rock band La Granja takes to the stage on July 23, bringing many of the songs that made them one of the island’s best-known groups. The final concert, on July 30, features acclaimed vocal ensemble Cap Pela, whose intricate a cappella harmonies have earned them fans across the Balearics.
All concerts begin at 8.30pm, with tickets priced at €15. Organised by Fundació Sa Nostra, the series also includes hearing loop technology to improve accessibility for people with hearing impairments.
Set beneath the summer sky, Les Nits de Can Tàpera has become one of Palma’s favourite cultural traditions, attracting both residents and visitors each July.
Boats, fireworks and centuries of tradition.
Credit: Pollensa.com
Credit: FundacioSaNostra
Dance under the stars in a picturesque village square.
FIRE ENGINE & FALCONRY
SO, there I sat. In the middle of a Saudi Arabian desert, stuck in a fire engine with the mid-day sun practically bubbling the paint - and no petrol. For those who have no idea what on earth I’m talking about, my position had arisen because I was endeavouring - re last week’s column - to deliver a modernistic fire engine to a new airport being built adjoining the desert town of Al Wajh, which lay some 600 kilometres north from my Jeddah starting point.
My tank and the two spare 10 gallon drums had finally given up all they had to offer, and I was definitely in trouble. Ensconced in a pool of sweat I gazed around the shimmering landscape. A few camels caught my eye but not much else. Just a minute, what was that? In the not too far distance, I caught a glimpse of what appeared to be some kind of tent. Through the hazy heat I
realised that’s exactly what it was; a fairly colourful Bedouin tent right there in the middle of nowhere. With only a passing thought of any safety issues I decided at least this could be a chance of some kind of assistance.
Climbing down from the cab I began the trudge toward the distant bivouac which thankfully turned out to be a lot closer than it had originally appeared. I approached the now quite large abode with not a little trepidation.
As I got closer, I realised it was in fact quite luxurious, with expensive looking decorations and tasselled exterior; and standing at the entrance were two very large and fully Arabian costumed men both with an outstretched arm, bearing of all things large hooded birds of prey, which turned out to be hunting birds used for the highly prized sport of Falconry. And they both spoke perfect English. It turned out they were Members of the Saudi royal household out for the hunt and were absolutely charming. They couldn’t quite believe I was
miles from anywhere in a modernistic fire engine in the middle of the desert, but after inviting me in for cups of sweet tea told me they did indeed have a gigantic tank full of petrol and I could freely help myself to whatever I needed. The whole experience was positively surreal and after a couple of laden trips (they were far too highly placed to help of course!)
With their Arabic farewells ringing in my ears and with full tanks I set off once again for the remainder of my fire engine delivery experience.
You really couldn’t make it all up. I won’t bore you with the rest of my trip. Safe to say I finally made it, but after missing the plane back (a small prop job which did the trip once a fortnight), I travelled back by motor bike, another unforgettable experience, much too long to put in Leapy’s column but available in Leapy’s book three on Amazon. If you can stand it!
Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail .com
Where’s our painting?
A VALUABLE painting by Spanish artist Joaquín Sorolla has been recovered after an unusual chain of events saw it travel from a pavement in Sevilla to a home in Murcia before being returned to its owners.
The artwork was briefly placed outside a family home in Sevilla while luggage was being loaded into a car ahead of a holiday. Forgotten during the rush to leave, it was spotted by a passerby named Andrés, who believed it had been discarded and took it away, attracted mainly by its decorative frame. Only after returning home to Murcia did Andrés begin searching online to identify the painting. Comparing images and artists, he realised it could be a work by Sorolla and contacted police after seeing reports that a painting matching its description had gone missing.
Officers travelled from Sevilla to Murcia to verify the artwork, while the family was informed it had likely been found. Before its recovery, relatives had distributed posters across Sevilla in Spanish and English, describing the painting as having great sentimental value and offering a reward for its return.
Police treated the incident as theft by loss rather than robbery because there was no force or criminal intent.
The case ended with the artwork safely returned.
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
The artwork was briefly placed outside a home in Sevilla.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Prices lift off
A NEW study by Transport & Environment has discovered that the increased arrival of tourists by air is intrinsically linked to rising rent prices. In Spain, the 12.8 per cent increase in tourists has pushed house purchasing prices up by €3,800 and rental prices by €236. Should tourist rates inflate any higher, rental prices could rise by another €217 by 2031.
Amazon in Spain
IN Spain, Amazon made €9 billion in gross revenue in 2025, pocketing a pre-tax profit of €290 million. Spurred on by this 12.5 per cent revenue increase, Amazon reinvested €6.5 billion into the country last year. Amazon is now working to establish a network of 40 logistic centres and numerous corporate offices in Spain, with the total investment reaching €25 billion in the next 15 years.
Spaniards abroad
ACCORDING to the PERE, more than 3 million Spaniards were registered as living abroad in 2025, 5 per cent more than in 2024. While Spain is paradise for tourists, quality of life is not so great for citizens. The average European salary varies, but of the five largest economies, Germans earn the most (€66,700), and Spaniards the least (€32,700). Experts attribute growing emigration to a lack of job opportunities and a high cost of living.
Livestock decline
THE EU’s livestock industry has entered another year of decline. The latest Eurostat figures reveal the population of pigs has decreased 8.9 per cent to 121.5 million, bovine animals 9.7 per cent to 71.6 million, sheep 12.2 per cent to 55.3 million, and goats 17.5 per cent to 10.2 million.
The climate crisis has reduced grazing land, increased costs, and placed stress on livestock.
STAT OF WEEK 48.2%
Between 2015 and 2025, the cost of building new residential buildings has increased by 48.2 per cent across the EU, according to Eurostat.
Paramount deal in peril
PARAMOUNT SKYDANCE CORP
is set to take over Warner Bros Discover in a $110 billion (€96.5 billion) deal. Several major international powers, including the US and China, have signed off on the deal, but the UK has some reservations that could put it at risk.
Should it go ahead, the takeover would make Paramount a verified media powerhouse. The combined corporation would control multiple Hollywood franchises, two streaming services, prominent news and sports channels, and even the UK’s own Channel 5.
As such, the UK culture secretary Lisa Nandy, has requested that Ofcom and the CMA investigate the proposed deal to determine if the takeover would create a competition imbalance that would threaten the UK’s public interest. Nandy is particularly concerned about the effect the deal could have on children’s television. Para-
mount and Warner are the second and third biggest children’s TV providers in the UK. Nandy worries a consolidation could “lead to a loss of a significant presence in an already limited market for children’s linear content.”
In order to intervene, Nandy would potentially need to update legislation as when the Enterprise Act 2002 was drafted, streaming
did not exist as it does today.
While the investigation may be in the UK’s best interest it could put the merger at risk. Confident the merger would be approved, Paramount offered Warner Bros shareholders a fee of 25 cents a share for every quarter the deal doesn’t close beyond September 30 - equivalent to $650 million (€570 million) each quarter.
Wealth gap widens
WHILE the working-class struggle to make ends meet, the world’s richest only got richer. According to the 2025 World Inequality Report, 0.001 per cent of the world’s population control three times as much wealth as the bottom half of humanity. The recent AI boom isn’t helping matters. New AI systems are fuelling global equity markets and widening the gap between the world’s richest and poorest.
In the last fiscal year, 43,000 people in the UK became millionaires, and in the US 440,000. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. By the end of the fiscal year in April, the total number of billionaires in the world grew to 3,302, 156 of which are based in the UK.
What’s more, a billionaire’s personal wealth grew by around 25 per cent compared to the 10.8 per cent
Football fatigue
AN algorithm has predicted the early elimination of European nations from the World Cup will lead to a tourism boom. With Germany and the Netherlands, two of Spain’s most important tourism markets, eliminated, eBooking.com believes fans will lose interest in the tournament and instead double up on their holidays.
average
experienced.
Pub profits
THE 2026 World Cup is bringing much needed business to British pubs. Landlords and bar staff report selling 5.5 million more pints of beer and cider than usual, and that’s just from the group stages.
Pint sales have grown rapidly with each England match. Sales were up 55.5 per cent during the Croatia game and 77 per cent when England faced Ghana. England’s game against Panama saw the biggest day of trading, with more than eight million pints served.
Venues are expecting higher sales to continue during England’s games.
Gold falls
GOLD has lost its shine. The traditionally reliable asset has fallen by around 7 per cent since January 1 and is down 13 per cent in the last quarter, its worst performance since 2013 after 10 consecutive quarters of gain. Gold prices now hover around $4,000 per-ounce (€3,508).
DECATHLON, Spain’s biggest sports store, closed the fiscal year with a net profit of €84 million. Spain is one of Decathlon’s strongest markets, contributing 11.2 per cent of global sales. To sustain growth, Decathlon committed to investing €40 million to modernise its network and strengthen brand identity in Spain.
Halifax scrapped
AFTER 173 years, Halifax is set to disappear from the high-street. Lloyds Banking Group has scrapped the banking brand and will eventually transition all customer accounts to Lloyds. The decision is said to be due to a desire to simplify the group’s portfolio and focus on the more recognisable brand.
Price of popularity Spain’s debtors
MADRID has established itself as one of the most important cities in Europe. Seven million people reside in Spain’s capital, making it the second largest EU city behind Paris. But it’s only in the last three years its population really swelled, with 100,000 inhabitants arriving annually since 2023. Additionally, Madrid welcomed 9.1 million international tourists in 2025.
But it’s becoming clear that Madrid cannot accommodate so many people. City maintenance can’t keep up with the crowds, and property prices have soared 62 per cent to €5.98 per square metre.
SPAIN’S Tax Agency recently released a list of its largest debtors. Approximately 5,853 taxpayers owe debts exceeding €600,000, a 2.4 per cent decrease to 2025. They owe a combined €15 billion to the Treasury, an amount that is also down 4.4 per cent from last year.
personal wealth increase the rest of the world
Wealth gap widens.
Warner Bros takeover at risk.
3I Group 2.585,00 2.601,00 2.562,00 263,55K
Admiral Group 3.652,0 3.678,0 3.644,0 63,47K
Airtel Africa 338,40 339,60 334,60 190,36K
Anglo American 3.771,0 3.805,0 3.760,0 287,41K
Antofagasta 3.861,00 3.951,00 3.845,00 76,88K
Associated British Foods 1.935,5 1.935,5 1.919,5 75,08K
AstraZeneca 14.396,0 14.566,0 14.346,0 284K
Auto Trader Group Plc 507,40 512,60 505,60 287,87K
Aviva 665,20 671,60 662,80 1,94M
B M European Value Retail 190,30 194,10 188,10 751,4K
BAE Systems 1.975,61 2.001,00 1.959,17 556,62K
Barclays 520,50 526,54 519,50 3,56M
Barratt Redrow 279,75 284,69 278,30 1,46M
Beazley 1.288,00 1.288,50 1.287,50 518,11K
Berkeley 3.398,0 3.434,0 3.382,0 32,17K
BP 464,35 467,95 463,05 2,93M
British American Tobacco 4.586,0 4.647,0 4.581,0 241,23K
BT Group 187,90 189,65 187,35 1,47M
Bunzl 2.640,0 2.688,0 2.630,0 75,98K
Centrica 171,70 173,50 171,15 905,77K
Coca Cola HBC AG 5.115,0 5.140,0 5.085,0 114,86K
Compass 32,78 33,34 32,65 120,24K
ConvaTec Group 222,40 222,80 218,60 575,44K
Croda Intl 3.006,0 3.042,0 2.984,0 31,02K DCC 6.175,0 6.205,0 6.170,0 13,42K Diageo 1.513,0 1.540,0 1.509,0 347,81K Diploma 7.180,00 7.245,00 7.135,00 36,7K
556,40 544,40 1,13M
534,40 541,60 530,40 738,23K
BUSINESS EXTRA
Second-hand sales
PREVIOUSLY, anyone selling their second-hand clothes online was obligated to report annual sales should they exceed €2,000. However, the European Commission has now raised the minimum reporting threshold to €3,000 in a measure that will benefit the seller, the online platform and tax authorities.
Adverts banned
MULTIPLE major fashion brands have had their advertisement campaigns banned in the UK due to false sustainability claims. The Advertising Standards Authority found retailers advertised their clothing collections as being “recycled” but failed to provide evidence to the claim.
Summer shoplifting
AS bars and restaurants prepare for every seat to be filled, supermarkets are also getting ready for products to go flying off the shelves. Although not in the way they’d like.
Summer is the worst time for shoplifting in Spain. Criminals take advantage of the swelling numbers of tourists to steal without detection, blending in with the crowds. For this reason, tourist hot spots are especially vulnerable.
SpaceX stocks crash
AFTER an unprecedented debut, SpaceX’s stocks plummeted, falling in three consecutive sessions. Following its first IPO, shares fell 23 per cent below peak price. Consequently, Elon Musk’s SpaceX experienced the second largest single-day loss in history, losing €350 billion from the company’s valuation.
SpaceX’s valuation now sits at $2 trillion (€1.74 trillion), the seventh most
valuable company in the world. But analysts note that SpaceX remains unprofitable, having accumulated €3.77 billion in losses in the first quarter of 2026, with Starlink being its only profitable division. They argue SpaceX’s high stock price is driven by expectations of future gains, rather than a confidence in the company’s fundamentals.
According to data published by Checkpoint Systems, around 27 per cent of Spain’s total shoplifting occurs during the summer months. In 2025, 169,000 cases of shoplifting were reported during this time, and authorities are expecting similar figures in 2026. Experts anticipate the accumulated cost of summer thefts to reach €760.5 million.
There has been a significant rise in shoplifting in recent years, with 65 per cent of companies experiencing an increase in external shifts. Worse yet, 74 per cent noted thefts are becoming more aggressive.
In summer, the most commonly stolen items are typically sun cream, alcoholic beverages and traditional Iberian foods, although this year retailers are expecting thefts of World Cup merchandise and other collectibles.
StubHub fined
TICKET re-sale site StubHub has been hit with a €1.72 million fine by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). They have been fined for a lack of transparency, adding commission fees in the final stages of purchasing. CMA considered this to be equivalent to hidden fees, an illegal practice in the UK.
Digital Euro
EUROPE’S Digital Euro, an electronic wallet accepted across the eurozone, is expected to launch in 2029. The European Central Bank recently secured parliamentary backing, giving the project a clearer timeline.
The hope is the Digital Euro will make Europe less reliant on US banks and take away the dominance of the US dollar.
Summer shoplifting on the rise.
Costa del Sol Banderas backs charity gala
ANTONIO BANDERAS attended Fundacion Sierra Blanca’s charity gala at La Cabane Marbella, marking his third consecutive year as special guest.
Chef Dani Garcia catered the dinner, continuing a tradition dating back to the gala’s launch in 2024. Lidia Torrent presented the evening, while journalist Ingrid Betancor ran the charity auction.
Guests included business leaders, local officials, and figures from sport and entertainment.
Money raised supports seven partner charities, including Caritas Marbella, Ciudad de los Niños, Despertar Sin Violencia, Fundacion Gasol, Fundacion Cesare Scariolo, Fundacion Jose Luis Martin Lopez, and Banderas’ own charity, Fundacion Lagrimas y Favores. Sponsors included Bentley Marbella, Banco Santander, Sacyr, and Hospital Recoletas Salud Marbella.
Previous galas raised significant sums, including more than €500,000 in 2025, though a total figure for 2026 has not yet been released.
Axarquia Celebrated lifesavers
BEACHGOERS in Torrox feel a wave of comfort when they spot Nancy on duty. The highly-dedicated chocolate-brown Labrador forms part of Spain’s pioneering canine rescue team, ready to spring into action during summer months.
Miguel Sanchez serves as both lifeguard and trainer for these remarkable dogs. Crowds often gather around Nancy and her companions, asking questions and snapping photos.
Action scenes with these dogs leave observers amazed. Slightly webbed toes help propel them smoothly through waves. Powerful tails act as natural rudders for precise steering. Sanchez explains that teams can swim faster toward someone in trouble because the dogs tow them back safely. Sanchez calls them biological speedboats.
Brown, a skilled Labrador retriever, and Nilo, a standard poodle, join Nancy in patrols. This professional setup allows free movement along shores to assist swimmers, carry equipment, and tow vessels.
Costa Blanca North Summer fiesta
THOUSANDS of people packed the streets of Denia as the town officially kicked off its annual Festa Major. Crowds filled the Glorieta del País Valencià for the traditional opening ceremony, with groups dressed in colourful shirts as they celebrated the start of several days of music, culture and tradition.
The festivities began on Saturday morning with a parade led by the Quintà 2008 group and the Fiesta Commission. By midday, thousands gathered in the town centre for the opening event, officially launched with the traditional rocket.
Local entertainer Sergio Dénia boosted the atmosphere, which continued into the afternoon. Later, many attended the Mediterrània music session featuring Lol i Pop, while others watched the Bous a la Mar events. The festivities actually started a day earlier with a children’s programme, featuring water games and entertainment launched by Denia’s Fallera Mayor Infantil.
Costa Blanca South Charity open water race
MORE than 1,400 swimmers took to the Mediterranean as the 29th Tabarca to Santa Pola sea crossing combined sport and fundraising for charity on July 5. A total of 1,405 competitors completed the 5.9km swim, with every entry supporting the Cruz Roja.
The annual event is one of Spain’s best-known open water swimming competitions and attracts competitors from across the country and overseas. Swimmers travelled from throughout the Valencian Community, Madrid, Leon, Guadalajara and Albacete, while participants also came from Italy, Argentina and the Netherlands.
Demand for places continues to increase, with more than 2,700 people applying to take part. For safety reasons, the field was limited to 1,405 swimmers. Although prizes were awarded to the fastest competitors, many participants said their main aim was simply to complete one of Spain’s most famous open water swims.
Almeria Sunset symphony
THERE’S something truly special about watching the sun set after a long summer’s day, the sky painted in different shades of orange and yellow like a living portrait. Vera Town Hall understands just how precious this can be, and are celebrating accordingly with the Enchanting Sunsets series.
Throughout the summer, the sunset will become the backdrop for several intimate outdoor concerts. Every Tuesday at the Puerto Rey Lagoon, and every Thursday at the Salar de los Canos from 9pm, music will meet the magic of mother nature to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Now in its third year, the opening Enchanting Sunsets concert took place on Thursday, July 2 and was a huge success. Seats filled quickly, leaving many to stand and sway along to the music. The acoustic set attracted a large crowd of friends and families, and even grabbed the attention of passers-by who couldn’t help but stop and watch.
Costa Calida
Iron Maiden madness
THE fifth edition of the Rock Imperium Festival in Cartagena has experienced resounding success, with more than 50,000 attendees brought together from 40 countries. The music festival, dedicated to the spirit of rock, saw more than 15 million generated in economic impact, and has re-established the city as one of the premier locations for major events in Spain.
One of the major highlights was the Iron Maiden concert, which drew an incredible 20,000 attendees in the Cuesta del Batel and consolidated the festival as one of the biggest of the summer for the Region of Murcia. The legendary British heavy metal band made history in the city, as their concert created one of the most crowded musical events held to date in Cartagena.
Attendees also enjoyed the delicious The Rock Imperium Tapas Route. This was a gastronomic offering in which some 20 establishments in the historic centre participated, offering low-cost tapas and drinks to festivalgoers.
Fancy pet-sitting for Dylan the Corgi?
SOME pets are better staying at home
If, like Dylan, your pet loves being at home, but likes receiving and meeting new people, then house-sitting might work best for them.
We find a lot of the pets we care for prefer staying at home when their owners are away, and they can do this with a little help from our friendly, checked house-sitters. It means Dylan can play his cheeky tricks on new and unsuspecting visitors. Note to would-be house-sitters - he loves to hide and chew a leather sandal. It doesn’t matter what colour, but it must be leather - he’s particular that way.
At HouseSitMatch.com we connect homeowners with trustworthy house-sitters. Homeowners get peace of mind knowing their animals and property are safe while they travel, avoiding eye-watering kennel fees. In return, house-sitters get free accommodation and the ultimate insider experience. It’s
affordable travel with a heartbeatallowing you to live like a local, one house-sit at a time.
How it works: your next step to adventure
Joining our network is simple, secure, and collaborative:
1. Register at HouseSitMatch.
2. Create your profile with photos highlighting your experience and love for pets.
3. Match and explore with your perfect house-sitting partner and start planning your next trip!
For a small annual registration fee (and zero ‘per-sit’ fees), you access a secure, vibrant community.
Pets get to stay at home, routines intact, properties remain secure, and you get a budget-friendly way to travel.
“This site is definitely the best... Lamia and her team provide such a personal approach and will talk you through any problems.” - Kay Lattimore
Claim your exclusive reader discount
Ready to start your next chapter? We would love to welcome you to our community.
Register today at HouseSit Match.com and use code WEL COME25 to receive 25 per cent off your first year.
Playful instincts
HAVE you ever wondered why your dog proudly parades around the house with a favourite toy? While it may look amusing, this common behaviour is rooted in instinct and comfort.
For many dogs, carrying a toy satisfies natural instincts inherited from their wild ancestors. Retrieving and transporting objects mimics behaviours once used for hunting and caring for their young. Certain breeds, especially retrievers, are particularly inclined to carry items because they were bred for this purpose.
Toys also provide emotional comfort. Much like a child with a treasured blanket, a dog may carry a favourite toy when feeling excited, relaxed or even slightly anxious. Familiar scents and textures can help them feel secure in different situations.
Nose prints
JUST like human fingerprints, a dog’s nose print is entirely unique. The distinct pattern of ridges, creases, and swirls on their snout can actually be used to identify an individual canine. In fact, some pet recovery organisations and kennel clubs have used nose prints to track lost dogs for decades!
Sometimes, a dog is simply inviting you to play. Bringing a toy to your feet or proudly showing it off is often their way of saying they are ready for a game or hoping for your attention. Even dogs that
wander around with a toy without wanting to share it are expressing normal, healthy behaviour. As long as the toy is safe and your dog is not becoming posses-
sive or destructive, there is little reason for concern. In fact, carrying toys is often a sign of a happy, confident dog enjoying one of life’s simple pleasures.
Every dog has a favourite toy.
Dylan loves to meet new people – house-sitters make great friends.
CLASSIFIEDS
CAR HIRE
LEO, CAR HIRE. Free airport service and competitive rates! 3,5 KM from the airport www.leocar.com. Mobile 0034 609 622 746 (350520)
MOTORING
WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)
Nordic walking in Palma
PALMA’S popular Nordic Walking programme is continuing throughout July with a fresh selection of guided routes designed to encourage residents to stay active while exploring some of the city’s most attractive natural surroundings. Organised by the Municipal Sports Institute (IME), the free sessions cater for all abilities, making the sport accessible to beginners and experienced walkers alike.
The July programme features seven routes through a variety of landscapes, offering participants the chance to discover green spaces, coastal paths and woodland trails while improving fitness in a friendly group setting. The remaining sessions are due to take place on July 10 at Bellver Forest, July
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Palma
15 at Son Quint, July 17 at Es Carnatge and July 22 at Cala Major, giving walkers a varied mix of inland and coastal scenery.
Nordic Walking has become increasingly popular thanks to its low-impact nature and full-body workout, engaging most of the body’s major muscle groups while reducing strain on the joints. The social aspect is
another major attraction, with each walk providing an opportunity to meet like-minded people and enjoy Palma’s scenery at a relaxed pace.
Advance registration is required, but with more routes still to come this month, there is plenty of time to join the programme and experience one of the city’s most enjoyable outdoor activities.
City cycling
PALMA is strengthening its commitment to active living with the expansion of the Bicipalma system, which will soon include 150 new electric bicycles and 16 additional docking stations across the city. The upgrade is designed not only to improve mobility, but also to encourage more residents to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily routines.
The arrival of electric bikes makes cycling more accessible to a wider audience. With pedal assistance, longer distances and challenging routes become less intimidating, helping people of different ages and fitness levels take part. This can be particularly valuable for those returning to exercise or looking for a low-impact way to improve cardiovascular health without the strain of traditional cycling.
From a community health perspective, the impact could be significant. More people choosing bikes over cars
means increased daily movement, which supports weight management, reduces stress, and improves overall fitness. It also creates a more active urban culture, where cycling becomes a normal part of commuting rather than an occasional leisure activity.
The expansion of stations across more neighbourhoods further supports consistency, making it easier for residents to build cycling into their routines. Over time, this could help shift habits towards more active transport choices, strengthening both individual wellbeing and the city’s broader commitment to healthier living.
Grassroots sports grows
THE Mallorca Council and the Balearic Islands Football Federation (FFIB) are strengthening their shared commitment to grassroots sport, reinforcing a model built on cooperation, funding and long-term development across the island.
A recent meeting between the two institutions focused on practical ways to support clubs at the base of the football pyramid. Central to the discussion were new and ongoing subsidy programmes designed to ease the financial pressure on local teams, helping them invest in equipment, facilities and day-to-day operations. The aim is clear: ensure that participation in sport remains accessible, sustainable and inclusive for every community in Mallorca.
Attention also turned
to the visibility of grassroots football within major sporting events. Both organisations explored how clubs and young players can be given a stronger presence in island-wide celebrations, including upcoming recognition ceremonies that highlight sporting achievement and community impact.
Looking ahead, the collaboration will extend
into the FFIB centenary year in 2026, a milestone that will be used to showcase the history and social value of football on the island. By aligning institutional support with federation expertise, Mallorca is reinforcing a pathway that allows young athletes to grow within a stable and better-resourced sporting environment.
Mallorca and FFIB collaborate to strengthen grassroot sport.
Explore Palma on foot.
Pink Bicipalma bikes coming to Palma.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Palma