Olive Press Andalucia issue 465

ELECTRIC SHOCKER

EXPATS David and Margorie Smith’s retirement dreams turned into a living hell when Spain’s largest electric company left them in the dark.

The Brits, aged 87 and 88, claim they were treated ‘worse than animals’ by Endesa after the energy giant cut off their power and slapped them with a shocking €3,000 bill.

The couple moved to the Costa del Sol after two decades in Galicia, purchasing a small home in Alameda, near Antequera, two years ago.

Expat pensioners - 87 and 88 years oldhave power cut off despite having legal contract and paying their bills

“It seemed like the best move we’ve ever made,” David told the Olive Press. But their retirement dream soon turned into a nightmare, when they started noticing erratic electricity bills via the previous owner’s provider Holaluz.

By Tom Ewart Smith

The monthly demands ranged from €10 to €140, despite minimal electricity use. Frustrated, they switched to fellow gi-

Where’s the cash?

MYSTERY continues to surround the ‘disgraceful’ collapse of the firm Iberian Funeral Plans in Spain.

Hundreds of expats are fuming after discovering their end-of-life plans, for which they paid up to €10,000 for, have effectively vanished overnight.

The firm was founded by British ex pat Steve Nelson, who is reported to have died around six weeks ago in Portugal.

EXCLUSIVE

plans effectively null and void.

As reported on our front page last issue this meant that a number of funerals have gone unpaid, causing considerable grief for families.

O P LIVE RESS

ant Iberdrola in June 2024, using the same CUPS identity code, but a month later Iberdrola inexplicably cancelled their contract.

It eventually emerged that their CUPS code had been shared with a neighbour’s home, but by then they had opened a new account with Endesa. Things however were to get worse when Endesa bizarrely reassigned their CUPS to their neighbours.

And two months later, on January 19, the couple received a letter demanding €2,314 for a year’s worth of energy.

The letter was addressed only to ‘the occupier’ and lacked a sender’s name.

Crucially, the CUPS number listed did not match the one from the couple’s new contract.

An Endesa representative later confirmed it was non-existent.

Adding to their woes, when they originally joined Endesa, they were told they needed a new smart meter, costing €647.

they would be cut off.

On January 22, this year, Endesa did exactly that, forcing the couple to move into a nearby rented home, where they are still staying.

“They are treating us worse than animals,” said Margorie, who suffers from panic attacks. She claims Endesa’s customer service regularly hangs up, and she describes them as ‘very rude’.

Despite their possessing a physical contract, Endesa claims they have no record of the couple.

Eventually a representative for the firm at its office in Antequera told them: ‘pay and you can claim it back,’ but they refuse to trust the company.

Even lawyers have told them they are ‘wasting time and money’ trying to resolve the matter.

Despite taking millions in payments over the last decade, nobody has been able to establish the status of the firm or accounts.

This was despite a local electrician confirming their current meter was ‘fully functional’, and an Endesa representative in Antequera also deemed the upgrade ‘unnecessary’.

Their last hope lies with the Junta, which is reportedly investigating. “We have been told they are helping, but with a company that behaves like the gestapo, I doubt they will get anywhere either,” added Margorie.

The Olive Press was unable to get hold of a spokesman at Endesa before going to press.

Shortly afterwards, clients began noticing no one was an swering the phones at Iberian head quarters, nor responding to emails. It soon became clear the company had ceased operating, leaving all of its customers’

The company insisted though they still had to pay the €3,000 sum owing or

A source close to Iberian told the Olive Press this week that an expat Karen Krejzl could be ‘the key’ to discovering what happened.

Krejzl is the former partner of Nelson and was closely involved in the busi

Continues on Page 7

IN THE DARK: Margorie and David Smith

Brutal invaders

THE Guardia Civil is looking for two ‘foreign’ nationals who beat up a Mijas resident in her eighties.

Rough landing

A BRITISH man, 36, has been arrested on arrival in Tenerife over an 11 kg cocaine deal in Portugal in 2019.

Resolution

THE ‘woman in the shed' has been identified as 33-year-old Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima, seven years after her body was found in Girona.

Missing narcos

FIVE suspected drug traffickers are missing after a narco speed boat collided with a stationary one during a high-speed chase on a river in Sevilla.

A GROUP of teens have caused outrage after filming themselves ‘using a chicken as a football’.

The Guardia Civil has now identified 39 of the young people involved in last August’s incident and are investigating two for the crime of animal abuse.

All risk being hit with a fine of €10,000-

FOWL PLAY

€50,000 for ‘serious’ animal abuse. The teens grabbed the chicken by the feet and kicked it like a football. The caption of the video read ‘corner’, with a football stadium emoji.

Police have also asked for a fine against the security company in charge of CCTV cameras in the Los Quintos area of Villamediana de Iregua, Logroño. It allegedly failed to provide officers with ‘the necessary information’ to catch the culprits. They are now facing a fine of between €360,000-€1,000,000.

POLICE NEEDED

EXPATS are demanding a greater police presence in Manilva following a ‘worrying’ spike in crime.

Numerous bars in both Duquesa and Sabinillas have been broken into, while brazen robbers are smashing car windows in broad daylight outside supermarkets.

Now businesses and locals are questioning the running of the town hall, with some insisting they don’t feel safe. It comes as the Rose and Thistle was robbed for the third time in JUST six months last week after

Crime spree hits expat businesses in sleepy Costa del Sol town

By Laurence Dollimore

thieves shattered a window and snatched various charity tins among other items.

Alarmingly, despite a trio of suspects being arrested two days earlier, they were released on bail within 24 hours.

“We had the Guardia Civil here, but basically there’s nothing they can do,” said owner Simon

Tree trio outrage

A TRIO of boozy Brits has sparked outrage in Malaga after being caught on camera uprooting a tree and parading it through the city centre.

The late-night antics saw one of the lads hoist the tree onto his shoulder while his mates walked alongside, strolling along Tribuna de los Pobres before dumping it when a police car appeared.

Locals are fuming, with Podemos spokesperson Nico Sguiglia slamming the incident as part of a new trend among drunken tourists. “They do what they wouldn’t dare do back home," one resident raged online.

The incident follows a string of vandalism incidents in the city, including the destruction of a historic cross.

Dearing (pictured).

“They didn’t take fingerprints as apparently it's pointless due to it being a public area so they would be smudged.

“They didn’t even want to test the large kitchen knife used to pry open the fruit machine.

“They entered by smashing through the main folding windows, took all the charity tins, and even a pot of notes we collect for a group of local disabled children."

He added: "This is gut wrenching as our weekly quizzes raise money for this. They also took a few beers and confectionery and change from the till.”

He added they left ‘a lot of damage’ including smashing plenty of beer bottles.

The businessman added there have been 'numerous' robberies in the area lately.

This includes ‘at least two’ in the port this week and ‘others in Sabinillas’.

“I’ve had three break ins in the last six months,” added the angry boss.

“There is a petition going around for better policing. Maybe it’s too little too late.”

It follows multiple reports of cars being broken into outside the Lidl supermarket in Sabinillas.

One picture showed how a thief had smashed an expat’s passenger window to steal a bag from the back seat.

The Olive Press has continually failed to get replies from councillor Dean Tyler Shelton, a former estate agent, working for the PP party, over recent weeks. Expat Shelton - who was recently in Berlin promoting the town at a tourist fair - is closely involved with the local St. George’s charity and the Facebook site Manilva Coffee Chat.

Fake cops

BRIT holidaymakers were left terrified after armed thugs posing as police stormed their Airbnb villa in a shocking Costa del Sol raid.

The brazen crooks burst into the Estepona rental in the early hours, yelling ‘Police!’ before threatening the three tourists at gunpoint.

The victims were tied up and locked in a storage room as the fake cops nicked a pricey Rolex watch and designer clothes.

One unlucky holidaymaker was rushed to hospital with a nasty head wound after being walloped by the ruthless gang.

AN illegal streaming service that offered premium television to thousands of telly addicts across Spain has been dismantled.

Raids were carried out on homes in Malaga and Jaen belonging to a family headed up by a matriarch, with nine arrests.

The group was selling illegal access to paid television channels and content, providing customers with modified decoder boxes and instructions on how to bypass paying the legitimate service providers. They laundered their profits through numerous properties valued at more than €3.25 million, which were registered under the name of the gang’s leader.

Big switch off

VALENCIA’S iconic Fallas festival culminated with the traditional Crema ceremony, where hundreds of satirical sculptures were set ablaze.

This year’s event held special significance as it addressed the devastating floods that ravaged the region last Oc tober, claiming hundreds of lives.

The sculptures, crafted by local artisans, critiqued the handling of the disaster, with depictions of regional leader Carlos Mazon and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to the fore.

Some figures high-

Sad fallas

lighted the resilience of volunteers, while others celebrated heartwarming moments from the

The festival, recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, drew large crowds and provided a moment of catharsis for the community. Meanwhile, King Felipe VI made a surprise visit to the festivities in Torrent (left), one of the hardest hit towns in Valencia, to show support for flood victims.

TRAGIC: An effigy of falleraswomen in traditional garb

Good job!

to depopulated inland Spanish village

EXCLUSIVE

A RENOVATED townhouse that featured on BBC's Amanda & Alan's Spanish Job has brought an avalanche of interest to a sleepy inland region.

The three-bedroom propertywhich has gone up for sale for €245,000 - has led to nearly 100,000 property searches on Moclin this year.

The sleepy village, 35 kms northwest of Granada city, hosted TV celebrities Amanda Holden and Alan Carr as they spent a year renovating the historic home.

Since the series went out on national British TV in January there have been nearly 1000% more people searching for

EDDIE Jordan, the charismatic former F1 team owner who died last week, had a deep connection to Spain through his longtime residence in the exclusive enclave of Sotogrande.

In the late 1980s, Johnny Herbert, one of Jordan’s former drivers, fre quently visited the villa.

He fondly recalled Jordan’s warmth and hospitality, describing him as ‘one of the greatest hosts you could ever come across’. Jordan built his Costa del Sol home after purchasing a plot of land from golfer Tony Jacklin in 1983.

property in the area.

“There have been over 85,000 searches for Moclin so far this year, compared with just 104 at this time last year,” explained a spokesman at property portal

Rightmove

“That’s a surge of 800 times and the biggest year-on-year increase we have recorded of any overseas location in 2025,” he added.

Local agent Ian Rutter, mean-

FINAL LAP

Over the years, he, his wife Marie, and their four children enjoyed Sotogrande’s sunny climate and worldclass leisure activities.

In the past decade, he also made use of Sotogrande’s marina to dock his 155ft luxury superyacht, a £32 million vessel that reflected his love for the finer things in life.

while, told the Olive Press he had been ‘inundated’ with visitors looking for homes in the pretty inland area.

“We have been getting dozens of inquiries a week and lots of people have headed over to visit,” said Rutter, who appeared in the show a couple of times.

The mayor of the town, Marco Perez, added: “It has been the most amazing boost for Moclin.

“It has really put the town and its surrounding area on the map.”

Perez, who travelled with the TV show to various festivals including Granada, continued: “Amanda and Alan were such fun to work with and we are already missing them.”

The property that sits opposite Moclin’s town hall was completely restored over the last year, with new staircases, roof and windows.

Features include 'a large central island, a chimney breast that houses the cooker and storage in ‘traditional’ cupboards'.

Katy comeback

She will appear at Barcelona’s Palau Sant Jordi on November 9, followed by Madrid’s Movistar Arena on November 11. Perry announced her return with a poster bearing red and yellow butterfly wings. The Lifetimes Tour is a collection of Perry’s greatest hits, from Roar to Firework Tickets will range from €48-€110 in the seated section and from €80-€140 standing.

PIQUE TEARS

FORMER Barcelona defender Gerard Pique broke down in tears when quizzed by a Madrid judge over an alleged corrupt business deal.

The case involves a lucrative agreement that saw Spanish Super Cup matches being hosted in Saudi Arabia.

The ex-partner of pop star Shakira told the judge that he has ‘suffered a lot’ and that the case had tarnished his reputation, before he let his emotions get the better of him.

A court is probing corruption and money laundering allegations following a big deal made by former Spanish football federation president, Luis Rubiales, in 2019.

Some €4 million was paid annually as a commission to Pique’s sports entertainment company Kosmos for helping broker the agreement.

Amanda and Alan’s featured TV property has brought a giant surge

ON SALE: Moclin townhouse costs just €245,000

By Jon Clarke & Alex Trelinski

WATER RELIEF

A CRUCIAL new water pipeline connecting the Campo de Gibraltar to the Costa del Sol has been opened, offering vital respite to the usually drought-starved region.

Drinkable

Junta boss Juanma Moreno inaugurated the 17-kilometre pipeline, which links the San Enrique reservoir in San Roque with the western Costa del Sol.

The €19.5 million project, funded through water bill surcharges, will provide an emergency drinkable water supply to Malaga during periods of extreme drought.

Silver lining

Drought warnings can finally retreat after reservoir levels double

By Tom Ewart Smith

THE recent storms that battered Andalucia have brought a silver lining - reservoir levels across the region have doubled compared to last year.

WEATHER experts are predicting an unusually warm - if slightly damp - April.

“There's a 50% chance April will be hotter than normal,” said Juan de Dios of weather agency Aemat. It follows a March that ‘ends much wetter than normal’. The long term forecast shows two more weeks of above-average rainfall that could continue into Easter.

As of this week, Andalucia’s reservoirs stood at 58% capacity, a dramatic rise from just 29% at the same time in 2024, when drought warnings loomed.

With Spain’s overall water reserves now at 71% capacity, nearly 15% up on last year, the threat of drought appears

Triple complaint

A MARBELLA animal shelter’s staff are fuming after facilities flooded for the second time since a €1.8m upgrade by the town hall.

Following complaints, Marbella mayor Angeles Muñoz has assured the centre is ‘under warranty’ and will be improved. The main issues include poor drainage on the floors with puddles forming in the dog’s cages, some of which flooded.

to have receeded. The most dramatic year-onyear rise has come in Malaga where the province’s reservoirs are up from 18% to 55%.

A number of its reservoirs are nearly full, while its most endangered at La Vinuela is now at 43.6%, having sat at

The animals took refuge with several buckets needed on the floor to catch leaks.

The centre has been reported as a ‘botched job’ since its inauguration in March 2024, with water a principal issue.

Triple A staff warned the works were not being carried out properly, but were reportedly ignored.

The Town Hall awarded €1,25m for the work, although in the end it cost €1,8m, with extra costs of €608,931 (48.50%).

THE Sierra de las Nieves lived up to its name when snow blanketed the mountains between Marbella and Ronda this week.

Meanwhile, El Torcal, near Antequera, and Sierra Bermeja, in Estepona, also had a heavy snowfall.

The snow-capped mountains are visible from Malaga airport, and will no doubt surprise tourists coming for a sun-kissed holiday.

just 9.7% this time last year. Sevilla has seen one of the most remarkable turnarounds, with levels soaring to 90%, more than double last year’s 42%.

The only province that is still struggling is Almeria that has seen a tiny rise from 8.04% to 10.27%.

Elsewhere in the country, the Navarra region leads with 90% capacity, though slightly down from last year’s 92%.

The country’s leading province is Valladolid, where reservoirs have reached an impressive 100% capacity.

Murcia, meanwhile, remains the region with the lowest overall water levels, at 36.32%.

With reservoir levels at their healthiest in years, local communities and industries can look forward to a more secure water supply in the months ahead.

THE Ronda road will remain completely closed to traffic for approximately six months. It follows severe damage that was inflicted on the main road from San Pedro by Storm Jana. The reconstruction project involves construction of a €3.5 million viaduct. Public Works Minister Rocio Díaz confirmed the closure of the road between kilometres 11 and 37.

The A-397 is a key route for the Serranía de Ronda, with daily traffic of 9,000 vehicles, half of which come from Ronda and nearby municipalities.

WHALE OF A BATTLE LOOMS

A MOROCCAN sailor is threatening to kill orcas this summer if solutions are not found to stop dangerous ‘interactions’ in the Strait of Gibraltar.

Anger is rising among sailors whose livelihoods are at threat from a pod of orcas who have been damaging ships.

The stark warning comes after a five-year spree saw the whales cripple hundreds of vessels.

Now, a series of captains claim it has become too risky for yachts and catamarans to navigate the Strait.

Yassine Darkaoui, a sailor who runs a repair shop in Tangier, has warned he is prepared to kill a whale if nothing is done.

It comes after he told the Olive Press he had fixed the rudders of three separate vessels attacked by orcas in the last year.

“I meet a lot of sailors who tell me they are prepared to shoot these motherf***ers if they try to harm their boats or endanger their families,” said Darkaoui.

“These guys have often invested their life savings in their boat. So when you see them being attacked by those beautiful monsters, it could lead to shootings.”

The sailor, who had to shelve plans to open a sailing centre in Tangier because of the attacks, added: “It is only a matter of time – and summer is coming.

“Once the tuna migration begins the orcas will be back and it might be that we need to kill one of them to teach them a lesson.”

And he added: “But let me tell you, if I kill an orca, I will kill it with a tear in my eye.”

The chilling threat comes despite the Iberian orca being a heavily protected species.

Under Spanish law anyone harming an orca could face two years in prison. The interactions that have taken place since 2020 are being blamed on around a dozen of the 40 whales that inhabit the Strait.

Various attempts have been made to ward them off, including throwing firecrackers overboard as orcas are acoustically sensitive to loud noises.

Darkaoui told the Olive Press he

Marbella: the cradle of human civilisation

ARCHAEOLOGISTS have made a groundbreaking discovery that could rewrite the history of human art and migration.

A small rock bearing a simple 'X' carving, found in Marbella may be the oldest known example of human artistic expression, potentially dating back 200,000 years.

This find not only pushes back the timeline of prehistoric art but also challenges current theories about human migration patterns.

The rock at the Coto Correa archaeological site, in Las Chapas, could predate the oldest known cave art by 100,000 years.

It would prove a human presence in Spain during the Early Middle Paleolithic.

Researchers are conducting tests, including quartz analysis and 3D scanning, to confirm the age and origin of the artifact.

If confirmed, this discovery could double the understood timespan of prehistoric art and reshape theories about human migration out of Africa.

By Walter Finch

also wants more research into a type of sonic tool which could be reliably used to keep them at bay.

“Something that, when you turn it on, they stay around 500 metres or a kilometre away,” he said.

Opinion Page 6

DEADLY: Endangered orcas face another threat after a sailor said he will kill one

EXCLUSIVE: Yachtie threat to kill an orca this summer if dangerous

‘interactions’ are not tackled

RADIO SILENCE

THOUSANDS of British expats will be heartbroken after the BBC announced it was shutting its Sounds app.

The change comes next month, although the BBC World Service and BBC Radio 4 will continue to be available via the BBC website.

Listeners outside the UK - unless they use a VPN - will officially be deprived of access to the rest of the BBC network - including Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 3, 5 Live, and 6 Music.

Also blocked will be its local services and stations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

EXPERTS WHO CARE ABOUT YOU

paper in Spain

A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in Spain with an estimated readership, including the websites, of more than two million people a month.

OPINION

Shocker!

THE terrible ordeal suffered by David and Margorie Smith should serve as a warning to anyone purchasing or renting a property in Spain.

The British couple have fallen prey to the Spanish system’s often severe lack of accountability, responsibility and ultimately, justice.

After buying their dream home in inland Malaga, they have clearly been lumped with the former owner’s unpaid electricity bills.

Incredibly, they then seem to have been made responsible for a neighbouring property’s bills also. It is just one of countless horror stories you hear and read about utility giants in Spain.

Typically, no one at Endesa can give the Smiths a clear answer as to who or what is responsible for this massive series of errors.

And what’s their fix? ‘Pay the €3,000 you DON’T owe us and then you can claim it back’ - fat chance! Hell would sooner freeze over before they got that cash back - and the process would bury them with red tape.

We sincerely hope Endesa gets its act together and cancels the Smiths’ debt for electricity they never even used.

We will keep applying pressure on them and suggest they take this case seriously - or risk losing thousands of British clients.

Thou shalt not kill

WHEN nature runs up against commercial business, there is usually just one winner.

The orca interactions (see page 5) have been going on for five years now and the economic pain it has caused has been adding up.

Patience at these marvellous and powerful creature’s seemingly aggressive behaviour has started to wear thin among those who are shouldering the burden – namely the boat owners.

And their frustration is spilling over onto the experts, who have failed to offer a lasting solution to their woes and have even seemed glib towards their suffering.

But sailors mustn’t kill a critically endangered animal because they can’t sail.

If they can’t do business while respecting those then they should not be in business at all.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR

Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es

Walter Finch walter@theolivepress.es

Yzabelle Bostyn yzabelle@theolivepress.es

(+34) 951 154 841 admin@theolivepress.es

Laurence Dollimore laurence@theolivepress.es

Alex Trelinski alex@theolivepress.es

Tom Ewart Smith tom@theolivepress.es

Estefania Marquez (+34) 658 750 424 accounts@ theolivepress.es

SICKENING BETRAYAL

Expats demand urgent regulation of the funeral plan sector in Spain after collapse of Iberian

By Yzabelle Bostyn

BRITS are calling for tougher regulations after losing a small fortune to a dodgy funeral plan company in Spain.

An Olive Press investigation suggests the number of clients left with worthless contracts after the collapse of Iberian Funeral Plans could run into the thousands.

And with each policy costing over €3,000 (and sometimes as much as €7,250) the money missing is well into the millions of euros.

The disappearance of Iberian - as reported on our front page last issue (see right) - has left the expat community in tatters with joint legal action being threatened and many fingers being pointed.

We have been inundated with emails and calls from anxious clients, who bought one of three different packages from the Iberian firm. With the website still apparently working it seems possible that unwitting clients may still be filling in details for the ‘Cedar plan’ for €3950 or the ‘Oak plan’ for €7,250.

A church service is being offered for €420 and ‘additional

IHATE it when an unlucky waiter is posted at the door of a restaurant in an attempt to draw punters in. But sometimes it’s an indicator of status.

The other day I was walking down a street in Ronda, where I live, when an enthusiastic 18-year-old waitress accosted me. Before I could answer, a regular shouted out: “Don’t waste your breath on him, love – he’s been here longer than you.”

That’s when I knew I was an expat.

The German comedian Henning Wehn (a fine example of an expat) has a

(+34) 951 154 841 distribution@ theolivepress.es

CONCERN: Clients of Iberian Linn Mcnally and Billy Steele (below) fear they have lost thousands

mortuary days’ at €185 per day.

While incredible that the website still has no confirmation of the company’s departure it seems certain that its British owner Stephen Nelson has recently died.

However, we have yet to get official confirmation from any of the dozen numbers we found from the various offices which stretch across the Iberian Peninsula.

There were once nine offices - or at least local reps - in Alicante, Alhaurin el Grande, Lorca, Manilva, Mallorca, Nerja, Tenerife, Portimao And Tavira.

One angry expat client, who has lost out, John Dyer told the Olive Press he was ‘angry’ that no official statement had been put

Kieran Kiernan, 80, Irish

Immigrants are those who come on boats. Whereas expats want a second chance and a better life. They have a better life than immigrants, immigrants have nothing.”

“I wouldn't want anyone to think I was an immigrant because it has heavy connotations.

out.

“There is a lot of money in an account somewhere so surely they have solicitors and accountants with the knowledge to put out a statement of the running of the business,” he insisted.

The closest we have had to confirmation was from former Iberian salesman Roger Brierley, who said Nelson died of ‘natural causes’ in Portugal ‘about a month ago’.

The employee, based in Alicante, said everything seemed ‘fine’ when he left the firm three years ago.

“Everything was above board, but of course anything can happen in three years,” he

What’s in a name?

Are foreigners in Spain expats or immigrants, and what IS the difference, asks Michael Coy, an expat for decades rule. He says if you move to a country richer than your own, you’re an immigrant. If you move to a poorer country, you’re an expat.

And I’m sure you’ve noticed how all the locals here think we’re millionaires. So most of us must be expats.

If you express the mildest interest in a car or a flat, the Spaniard immediately multiplies the price by a factor of 10. And one thing for sure the locals definitely don’t tip. Ask your Spanish friends if they ask for change if you give a taxi driver a

We took the expat vs immigrant (or resident?) debate to the streets of Spain with a vox pop around San Pedro de Alcantara

Olof Pettsson, 78, Swedish (Stockholm), former managing director, Guadalmina

I am not an immigrant because Sweden is a part of the EU and there is free movement. Immigrants are from outside the area, so you could call expats from the UK, immigrants. However, they use the word expat to soften it if they feel negative towards immigration.

Ali Alzayani, 44, Bahraini/English, businessman, San Pedro

Expat sounds like you made a choice, immigrant sounds like you had to move. It’s unfair but it’s how the world sees it. You can start as an expat thinking it’s temporary but then you build a life, settle in, and suddenly you’re more of an immigrant.

Sandra Russell, 73, former restaurant owner in Estepona

I hate the word expat. To me it just doesn’t ring right. It’s like an old fashioned name for the British in Hong Kong or Singapore. I don’t think it fits foreigners in Spain, I refer to myself as a ‘foreign resident’ because I am pretty much integrated and speak Spanish although I am fair and look like a guiri. I don’t mind using that word because I have always looked at it with humour.

Jane Willy, 79, Welsh, retired hairdresser, San Pedro

I am neither an expat nor an immigrant, I would call myself a resident as this is my forever home. I’ve booked my cremation. But if people call me an immigrant that’s fine, I have no problem.

Mary Page, retired headmistress, Estepona

I’ve only heard the word ‘expat’ in Spain. I think it’s used mainly by non-Spanish speaking inhabitants of ‘Brit bubbles’ who see themselves as separate from the natives. It’s something out of the long-gone age of Empire. I was an immigrant until I changed nationality and am now a proud Spaniard.

told the Olive Press, adding he himself also had a policy.

“I’ve been told it is unlikely that anyone will get any money back,” he insisted.

Another ex-employee, insisted that Nelson had not been involved in the day to day running of the business for ‘at least’ two years, and had lived anything but a ‘lavish’ lifestyle as some victims have claimed.

“He moved to Portugal some years back suffering from diabetes and poor health,” said the source who we are not naming. “He was very overweight and struggled to move around.”

The former salesman, who was based out of Manilva, continued: “As far as I was away he had handed over the running of the business to his ex-wife and sister in the UK.”

Either way, victims and experts alike are understandably urging Spanish authorities to

€20 note for a €19 fare. I’ll tell you the answer: 99% of them ask for change.

A British ‘immigrant’ to Spain is someone who always leaves a big tip, and probably tries to pay their bar bill as they order a round.

So, do you find yourself feeling nostalgic for Yates’s Wine Lodge, sausage rolls and wall-to-wall carpeting?

If so, you’re more than an immigrant. And for expats, no matter how long you live in Spain, you likely insist on PG Tips for breakfast and, possibly Earl Grey in the afternoon.

And it’s highly likely you still wear socks with your sandals? Oh, and are you wearing a vest?

When you shop at the supermarket, you’re drawn to sliced white bread, and not to baguettes. And you never, ever eat squid or snails.

Do you also get a perverse pleasure from confusing Spanish people?

Here are some questions to ask them: not only will they not give you a coherent answer, I guarantee they won’t even understand the question.

One: Where can I buy a kettle?

Two: We’re out of HP – is Daddy’s OK?

Three: Is Keir Starmer batting on a sticky wicket?

An expat will never fully integrate. Here’s the test. (And I’m not talking about the Spanish knack of wearing a suit at a summer wedding, without sweating).

Go to a cafe and wait until they pull out that unique Spanish disinfectant, the one that’s 10 times fiercer than prussic acid.

Order a Russian (Kiev - ed.) salad. If you can eat it while you’re surrounded by those uber-toxic fumes, congratulations – you can now call yourself Spanish.

take action to prevent disasters like this from happening again.

Linn Mcnally, 77, told the Olive Press she was ‘sickened’ after ‘scrimping and saving’ for years to afford her plan with Iberian.

“After my husband died, I was trying to get by on a basic pension. It was very difficult and I struggled to keep up with the monthly payments but somehow I managed it. I’m having sleepless nights now that it’s all gone,” she added.

The former teacher contracted a plan with Iberian in order to ‘make life easier’ for her two disabled daughters and busy son back in the UK.

Like many expats, she trusted the confident sales patter of the salesman she met when she moved to Pedralba, Valencia.

“You’re more likely to trust someone of your own nationality because you think you’re all in the same boat and helping each other,” she said.

“Spain is certainly still behind England in a lot of ways, and it’s like stepping back in time with a lack of regulation.

Mystery continues

ness ‘until the pair broke up two years ago’, as his health deteriorated from diabetes.

According to official Spanish records she was the main administrator from 2016 until 2023, when she resigned on paper to hand over the running to Nelson.

The source said: “I don’t believe Steve was dishonest and even though he was no longer involved in the day-to-day running for the last few years, I assume he ensured that funerals were dealt with and paid for.

“Unfortunately, he had been in poor health for many years with diabetes and I believe had lost part of one leg.”

The Olive Press failed to make contact with Krejzl via various numbers and social media.

Her father, who lives on Costa del Sol, told us he has not spoken to her for some time, and claimed she left Iberian ‘years ago’ after ‘falling out with Nelson’.

meaning you also risk buying from English cowboys.”

He advises doing thorough research before investing in a funeral plan, including ensuring it is Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulated in the UK.

“Iberian offered services below market value and that is immediately a red flag,” the 52-year-old, based on the Costa del Sol, warned.

“If it’s cheap, it’s because they aren’t using your money for funerals but to buy Ferraris, helicopters and mansions in Puerto Banus.”

He sympathised with victims looking for justice, warning any funeral plan without FCA regulation runs the risk of being abused for personal gain.

Spain is behind England and regulation is like stepping back in time

“You have no choice than to be more trusting and that leads to situations like this.”

Fellow Costa Blanca resident, Billy Steele agrees: “These companies hit you as soon as you land in Spain and you have a million things going on so you put your trust in them.”

The 65-year-old former veteran continued:

“The law should do more but everything in life is a risk nowadays, especially for older, retired people.

“They are targeted more because scammers know they have money.”

Funeral director, Neal Toplis, agrees: “Of course there should be more regulation but the problem is the system is different in Spain. If you use the Spanish system, which is getting funeral insurance with a company like Ocaso, you’ll be ok.

“But many expats want an English product,

“People want someone to pay for this, but the only person responsible is in a coffin,” he told the Olive Press.

While we are trying to establish if this is definitely the case, Rob Barker, Head of Compliance at Avalon Funeral Plans, echoed the call for further regulation.

“It highlights the importance of consumer protection in the prepaid funeral plan sector- especially in Spain where the industry remains unregulated,” he insisted.

He called for better ethical standards, compensation protection, ombudsman support and secure trust funds like those seen in the UK.

If these changes were put in place, consumers would be protected from funds being misused and companies collapsing, with providers held accountable for delivering services.

“In the UK, it took years of lobbying to bring plans under FCA regulation and similar advocacy has not yet taken place in Spain and may not gain traction as the number of expats here is relatively small compared to the overall population,” he said.

“Pre-paid funeral plans in Spain generally target expatriates, while Spanish nationals often use alternative methods for funeral expenses.”

HOW TO KEEP YOUR MONEY SAFE

Check the FCA register – Only firms authorised by the FCA are regulated. You can verify a firm’s status at www.fca.org.uk/register

Looking for the FSCS logo – UK-regulated financial services firms are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which protects your money.

Check memberships – Ensure the provider is a member of the National Association of Funeral Plan Providers (NAFPP).

If a provider is not regulated, ask the following questions: Where is my money held? What percentage of my funeral cost is secured in a trust? What happens if the company fails? Be cautious of unregulated providers making bold security claims. Many use terms like ‘secure trust’ or ‘separate accounts’, but if they are not FCA-regulated, there are no guarantees your money is safe.

EASTER RELIEF

The Olive Press website launches sweet subscription deal following a miserable March

IT has, without a doubt, been one of the most depressing months in recent Spanish history.

Nearly four weeks of uninterrupted rain have wrought havoc on businesses across the country by warding off tourists and keeping locals locked up at home.

Bars and restaurants that would usually cater to thousands of punters over weekends in March were seen empty, with many not even bothering to open.

As anyone who lives here knows, good weather equals good business, and long spells of disruption can have deep knock-on effects on the economy.

With everyone feeling the pinch in the run-up to high season, the Olive Press website is offering a limited time deal on its annual subscription package.

AD-FREE BROWSING

For our Easter special, we are slashing the price of our yearly subscriptions to just €29.99, down from the usual €49.99. Only paying subscribers get unlimited access to all of our online articles and, most importantly, they can enjoy them ADVERT FREE.

To join this privileged club - to which thousands of you already belong - scan the QR code on this page.

The QR code will take you to the checkout area with the discount already applied.

More than 73,000 people have now registered an account at press.es, more than double that of a year ago.

After significant investment and changes to our paywall provider and web server, we are now seeing around 50 people registering with us each DAY.

So what are you waiting for?

Join the conversation today and become one of thousands of Olive Press subscribers.

NO OP, NO COMMENT

SCAN THE QR

ACTION NEEDED: Funeral director Toplis (right) advises avoiding ‘cheap’ deals

From front

Sustainable splash

ACOSOL has launched a €10 million project to improve the energy efficiency of Marbella’s desalination plant.

The public water company aims to reduce energy consumption in water treatment processes, making the plant more sustainable.

Planned upgrades include new high-efficiency pumps, frequency converters, and hydraulic system improvements. These enhancements will optimise energy use, with a target of reducing consumption to 1.40 kWh per cubic metre of water treated.

The project is expected to last 22 months and will be financed through the Acosol investment Plan, with additional support from the Andalusian Energy Agency.

STILL IN THE DANGER ZONE

EXPERTS at Doñana National Park have warned recent rainfall may not be enough to stave off drought come summertime.

Juanjo Carmona, WWF coordinator at Doñana, says it is ‘too early’ to celebrate the dramatic rainfall seen this month as the park ‘could still dry out’ in summer. He says the March down-

plans experience stronger economic growth, lower energy costs and lower health costs, explains Christin

FOLLOW THE TREND…

CURRENTLY, we are in a season where we do not feel the effects of climate change as strongly: Compared to increasingly hot summers, less cold winters, or stronger autumn storms, the climate in spring is still moderate. We all eagerly await the arrival of summer.

However, even if we do not currently feel climate changes in Europe, the climate continues to change steadily. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently released a new State of Global Climate Report, which can be summarised in six points:

1. Warmest Temperatures on Record: 2024 was the first year to average more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, specifically 1.6 degrees. It’s not just 2024; the last 10 years have been the hottest decade on record.

2. 1.5 Degree Goal Not Necessarily Exceeded: The Paris Climate Agreement aimed to limit warming to 2 degrees, if possible 1.5 degrees. These figures are averages, so even if a year is hotter than 1.5 degrees, the average can still stabilize at 1.5 degrees.

3. Highest CO2 Levels Ever: In 2023, approximately 3.276 billion metric tons of CO2 were in the atmosphere, the highest level in 800,000 years. Other greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide are also present in very high concentrations.

4. Oceans Are Significantly Warmer: Over the past 20 years, ocean warming has doubled compared to the period from 1960 to 2005. Previously, the average was about 20.2 degrees Celsius; recently, it was around 20.8 degrees. This seemingly small difference poses significant problems for marine life, as these are average figures and variations are higher in many areas. Coral reefs are particularly threatened by this temperature change, leading to bleaching and death. Since they are the foundation for many other organisms, these also die. Additionally, CO2 dissolves in the oceans, causing acidification, which is a major problem for fisheries, especially in the Indian Ocean, Southern Ocean, equatorial and tropical Pacific, and parts of the Atlantic. This acidification

CLIMATE CHANGEM:

Ever more flooding is a sympom

is likely irreversible.

5. Glaciers and Sea Ice Are Melting: Both sea ice and glaciers are retreating in all regions. Even sea ice in Antarctica is now declining, which is surprising since it had remained relatively stable for a long time.

6. Displacement of 800,000 People Due to Extreme Weather: As climate change progresses, more areas of the Earth are becoming nearly uninhabitable. Due to prolonged droughts, more frequent floods, heavy rainfall, or other extreme weather events, 800,000 people had to flee last year, 1.1 million were injured, and 1,700 died due to climate change impacts.

This WMO report highlights once again how important it is for us to take action! If we act quickly, we have a chance to prevent much greater harm. However, action must be taken swiftly.

In preparation for the World Climate Conference this November in Brazil, the head of the UN Climate Secretariat, Simon Stiell, has called on all countries to submit their climate protection plans.

These plans should describe the measures they intend to implement by 2035 and must be submitted by September this year. UN scientists will then calculate the gap between these planned measures and the internationally agreed targets for limiting global warming.

A mid-term assessment of current efforts by all countries was provided by Stiell, stating that we are currently on track for a three degree increase in global warming if all countries continue as they are.

This is a good achievement, as it looked like we would reach six degrees of global warming at the start of climate conferences in the 1990s. However, three degrees should not be the final goal.

Even now, having just exceeded the one-anda-half degree mark, we are already experiencing significant climate changes. There are also countries that are making good progress with their climate plans. According to Stiell, these countries are already seeing benefits: stronger economic growth, lower energy costs, less environmental pollution, and resulting lower health costs. So, let’s all follow this trend.

Please send your questions or comments on how to be greener to christin@theolivepress.es

By Yzabelle Bostyn

pours are indicative of a new trend, where instead of rain falling progressively in the winter months, huge deluges inundate the park in spring.

“We used to see 80 litres of water in November and 90 in December, last year we got 20 and 30, compared to 150 litres in March,” he said. Although any rainfall may seem like a godsend in drought ridden Andalucia, gradual rainfall helps to sustain water systems much better than sudden downpours.

“Progressive rain helps feed rivers and sustain ground waters. If water falls all at once, it can cause serious problems and quickly overwhelms congested groundwater systems” he said.

“This month we’ve had incredible rainfall, like I haven’t seen for years. It’s great for some species and I’ve seen some animals more than ever. But I’m concerned it won’t last.”

Experts

warn Doñana rainfall may not be enough to sustain the park through ever rising temperatures

He warns if record temperatures repeat themselves, the area would quickly dry out, leaving the species that have made their home on the once-humid wetlands vulnerable to predators and starvation.

“Because the water has fallen suddenly, it’s largely superficial meaning it’s likely to evaporate. If it disappears, aquatic birds that are so important to Doñana will be in great dan-

ger as predators such as wild boars will be able to reach them,” he said.

Once a ‘refuge’ for wildlife, he warns Doñana is being damaged at the hands of climate change, agriculture and hunting issues.

“I hope the temperature doesn’t rise too much and the water stays so that the park can recover a bit. It’s not about getting pretty photos of the rain, we need to keep Doñana going,” he said. “We can celebrate at the end of summer when we know if the rain has had a significant impact.”

Countries with climate change

Hagemeier

LOTS OF WATER: At Doñana but for how long?

LOOKING for the ideal space for your classic car collection?

With its 15-car garage, built like a showroom, this is the ideal home for every motoring enthusiast.

Dream on petrolheads Nick Mason, Jamiroquai and Rowan Atkinson, Villa Enso, in La Zagaleta, Benahavis, is roaring for a new owner.

For a cool €34 million you get indoor and outdoor pools, 21 bedrooms and a 12-seat indoor cinema.

Even better, for an extra €3 million, the owner will include two Ferraris and a Lamborghini in the sale as well as his rare F1 memorabilia collection.

This extraordinary cornucopia includes Michael Schumacher’s race suit, a Niki Lauda Ferrari wing and a Nigel Mansell front wing.

Looking like a spaceship about to return to the mothership, the contemporary villa sits on a large hillside

Find out what €200k will get you across Spain See page 22

Petrohead palace

plot inside Spain’s most exclusive enclave.

Featuring views to Gibraltar and North Africa, at 3,500 metres squared it is believed to be one of the biggest and best properties ever built on the Costa del Sol.

Distributed over three floors, all connected by a lift, Villa Enso has a palatial master bedroom and nine additional suites for guests.

Naturally there is a spa, with two jacuzzis, sauna, steam and massage centre… but few will be expecting its own ice room and hair salon.

A wine cellar, games room, bar and lounge area are located downstairs.

A number of the suites have their own private sitting rooms, while all have their own private terrace.

The master suite has its own lounge area with fireplace, plus a huge walk-in wardrobe and its very own Japanese garden.

And let’s not forget the gardens that have their own poolside gazebo featuring a bar, bathroom and entertainment area under a pergola.

There is an office area, as well as solar-power installation and a complete security system with CCTV, in addition to 24-hour security provided by the urbanisation.

The property is being sold exclusively by www.terrameridiana.com

ONE of Spain’s leading mortgage experts has just had his best month in 22 years.

Tancrede de Pola at the Finance Bureau had a ‘record January’ with dozens of clients purchasing homes via his firm.

And February was also in the ‘top 10’ best months his firm has ever had.

“February was our best ever and the year has started incredibly well, probably the best in our history,” de Pola told the Olive Press.

“And last year was already our best ever in terms of turnover, thanks to a steady growth in sales prices.”

The British financier, from London, has been running his mortgage advisory service in Marbella for over two decades.

His company has grown ‘organically’ and will employ seven brokers by Easter.

The tennis-playing mortgage specialist puts his company’s growth down to ‘di-

RECORD GROWTH

Diversificationof nationalitieshasbeenkeyto 2025clientboomatleadingmortgagebroker

By Jon Clarke

versification’.

While the British market has dropped from 80% of its business to 40% over the last few years, it has been made up made up from dozens of other nationalities.

In total, de Pola speaks to around ‘20 different nationalities’ a week, and now has the staff to help cater to them.

“There have been lots of Americans

buying and I think Trump coming in has only added to the flight, with more people trying to leave to get away from him.

“It started three or four years ago when the dollar and euro hit parity and that market has just not stopped growing.

“It is also easy for Americans to simply relocate these days with the likes of the Digital Nomad visa. It is definitely making it favourable for them to come.”

There has also been a big rise in clients coming from near the Ukraine, such as

Poland, Lithuania and Estonia.

“We are certainly seeing a lot more Finns coming too, while the Swedish are by far the strongest Scandinavian market.”

And he adds: “The uncertainty created by the Ukraine conflict has certainly driven a lot of people to Spain, not to mention the colder northern European client.”

He also says small changes in local tax rules have seen some dramatic shifts.

This includes a claim that ‘10,800 millionaires’ left the UK last year. “Quite a few came down to live in Spain,” he insists.

And in the Netherlands, a new tax levied on rental income last year led to dozens of new clients calling him each month.

“I was getting about five calls from Dutch people a day the week after the new rule was introduced.”

The financier - who is on ‘speed dial’ to dozens of bank managers - adds the socalled ‘Beckham law’ is a very popular option for buyers at the moment. The law allows expats to move to Spain and pay just 24% on global income up to €600,000.

Visit www.thefinancebureau.com for more information

Mark Stucklin

www.spanishpropertyinsight.com

Spain’s property market had a stellar year in 2024, with home sales reaching levels close to all-time highs. According to newly released figures from the Spanish housing ministry, 715,429 homes changed hands last year, marking a 12% increase compared to 2023. This figure was just short of the decade-high 717,734 sales recorded in 2022—a year supercharged by pent-up demand from the pandemic. If not for that exceptional surge, 2024 would have been the biggest year for home sales since 2007, the peak of Spain’s previous property boom.

Last year’s sales were also 24% above the ten-year average,

ON THE UP

Spanish property market hits near record-high sales in 2024

highlighting the strength of the market. Despite economic uncertainties and inflationary pressures, demand remained resilient, especially from Spanish buyers. Local buyers drive the market

Strong

All segments contributed to last year’s strong performance, but it was local demand that led the way. A relatively strong economy, rising wages, and job growth helped drive a 14% increase in purchases by Spanish buyers. This was one of the highest growth rates in recent years, reflecting con -

tinued confidence in property as

mand was slower, both segments remained over 20% above their

ten-year average, underscoring the continued appeal of Spanish property. The slowdown in non-resident purchases suggests that the post-pandemic boom in second-home buying may be stabilising. What’s next for the market? Looking ahead, there are no clear signs that the market is set to decline. With interest rates falling, borrowing conditions should become more favourable, potentially encouraging further demand. The European Central Bank is widely expected to continue cutting rates in 2025, which could ease financing costs and attract more

However, property markets are cyclical, and some fluctuations are inevitable. With such a strong performance in 2024, a slight cooling-off period would not be surprising. That said, unless there is a major economic downturn or policy shift, the broader trend remains positive.

For now, Spain’s property market appears to be in good health, with near-record sales in 2024 reinforcing its resilience and appeal. If economic conditions remain stable, 2025 could be another strong year, particularly as lower interest rates make financing more attractive. Let’s see if the market can maintain its momentum for another year.

Rental auditions

A DRAMATIC shrinking in Spain’s rental housing stock has seen landlords become more discriminatory when choosing tenants, according property portal Idealista

The latest data indicates that demand has surged by 319% since before the pandemic, and it has led to property owners conducting ‘rental castings’.

Idealista spokesperson Francisco Iñareta warned that these processes have become the number one concern among families who need housing, often surpassing high prices.

Fierce

He said: “With fewer properties on the market and fierce competition, the profiles being chosen are increasingly elitist.”

He added that landlords are primarily evaluating income levels, longterm financial stability, and the ability to recover the property in case of non-payment.

It follows on from a surge in the number of interested parties per listing, which has rocketed from just seven in late 2019 to 30 by the end of 2024.

Malaga has seen demand increase by 437%, while Alicante experienced a 339% surge. Palma de Mallorca recorded one of the highest increases nationwide at 495%, now with 48 families vying for each rental listing.

Sofa so bad

LANDLORD has listed a sofa on a popular rental platform for €450 per month in Estepona.

Now deleted, the ‘property’ was in the Parque Central area of the beach town.

Room

It consisted of a white sofa bed in the flat’s living room, right next to the dining table.

From the few pictures uploaded, the living room seems to be lacking a door, making it the perfect property for extroverts who do not need any personal space.

It comes after a landlord in Marbella sparked fury last summer after renting a sofa in a shared flat for €400 a month.

A COSTA del Sol spa resort is in the running to win at the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler Spain 2025 awards.

The five-star SO/Sotogrande SPA & Golf Resort has been nominated in the category of Best Health, Sports and Wellness Hotel.

Located in one of the most exclusive

areas of the Andalucia resort is already a big name in the field, having won the prize in the 2023 edition of the awards.

Set to be rewarded at SO/Sotogrande

SO GOOD WHAT A PAIR!

Luxuryexpatagentsfacingjailand€2 millionbailfor'stealing'dataandcustomers

A PAIR of ‘cunning’ estate agents are facing seven years in prison after they syphoned off sensitive company data, while setting up their own new business.

The expat agents have been ordered to post bail of a staggering €1.9 million.

German Oliver Koch and Frenchwoman Maeva Varlet have been accused of stealing confidential information to drum up their own client base and sales.

Prosecutors claim the pair formed Koch & Varlet Luxury Realtors while still working for Costa Blanca agency Mir-

By Alex Trelinski

albo Urbana which builds and sells luxury homes. They are accused of selling villas on behalf of their own company while still on the Miralbo payroll by diverting customers to their enterprise.

The Javea-based pair were 'found out' when a client mistakenly sent a payment to Miralbo, rather than to the couple.

A Denia judge imposed an extremely high joint-bail figure for them - totalling €1.9 million - due to the fear of flight risk.

Prosecutors want them jailed for a total of three-and-a-half years each for fraud and dis-

€50 million marvels set new record

PROPERTY prices continued to surge in the Balearic Islands with two Ibiza homes selling for a record price last year.

As well as the two villas selling for €50 million each last year, over 100 properties cost over €6 million in the Balearics.

The most expensive villas were in Sant Joan de Labritja and pric-

Mourning in Mocha

GIVEN the world’s current state of affairs - and Spain’s dreadful Spring weather - one must concede that Mocha Mousse has taken its responsibilities seriously.

The colour of the year for 2025 is a yucky, dirty shade and has perfectly captured public opinion.

Selected by American colour giant Pantone, it embodies the gloom, but fear not - it also offers hope.

The company, ba sed in New Jersey, claims it is about ‘empowering’ and is ‘capable of creating moments of luxury.’

What would we do without this delight ful brown hue? How would we ever find refuge in this period of hardship?

“We are more excited than ever,” insisted president Elley Cheng.

es in Ibiza rose higher than any other region of Spain.

The average transaction across the Balearic islands last year was €360,000 but there was an upturn in sales at premium prices. Overall, there was more than €5 billion of sales last year, spread out over 13,847 properties.

In Palma, 21 luxury home deals

averaged out at €18.4 million per property.

The most up-market sales on the island were in Calvia, with 30 homes averaging out at €9.8 million each.

Andratx had 12 luxury sales above the €6 million mark, coming in with an average of €10.4 million per deal.

ACCUSED: Oliver and Maeva ‘syphoned contacts’ and ‘stole’ clients

closing business secrets.

An investigation was launched after Miralbo Urbana denounced them after they allegedly broke signed confidentiality agreements with the company manager.

They are accused of 'fraudulent practices’ to steal customers, as they had access to all databases, contacts and customers.

They also tried to ‘obtain illicit financial benefits, empty stored emails, and took information on clients and projects'.

The pair vehemently deny the charges.

CAN’T afford to buy a property on the Costas? Then head to rural Catalunya where apartments are selling for less than €60,000 each.

Property giant Idealista, which covers the whole of Spain, has just published figures on the most and least expensive areas to buy.

In January 2025, as expected, Barcelona was among the priciest locations. However, prices have stalled further inland.

An 80-square-metre flat in Barcelona costs around €220,000. However, move 55 km inland to Calaf, and the same 80-square-metre apartment costs around €58,000.

Calaf, a small town with 3,500 inhabitants, sits halfway between Lleida and Manresa. It has good road and rail links to Barcelona and remains largely unspoiled, with its own ruined castle and a compact perimeter of less than a square kilometre.

A VILLA costing a whopping €22.5 million has hit the market in Sotogrande, the most exclusive neighbourhood in the Campo de Gibraltar.

Located in ‘The Seven’, a privileged private community in La Reserva de Sotogrande, the modern mansion was designed by ARK Architects.

Known as ‘Villa Niwa’, the property seamlessly combines natural landscapes, golf courses and panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea.

“NIWA blends in with nature, becoming an integral part of it and creating a sense of peace, balance and security for its inhabitants,” the property’s webpage reads.

…But ‘embrace the brown’ insists Tom Ewart Smith with Pantone’s new colour fitting the mood in Spain and globally

In 2023, we lived in ‘a joyous and optimistic celebration’ with Viva Magenta, a colour hailed as ‘brave and fearless.’

It is a bold statement, considering last year’s winner, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, was ‘a velvety gentle peach tone’ intended to usher in a peaceful and compassionate era.

Now, just two years later, we are left clutching our Mocha Mousse, a colour that - while noble in its own way - feels more like a resignation than a rallying cry.

Chosen to herald in the new year the ‘Colour of the Year 2025’ has truly captured the essence of our times…a colour described as ‘a warming brown hue imbued with richness’ which supposedly ‘captures the global zeitgeist.’ PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse also, apparently, ‘extends further into our desire for comfort.’ Deep stuff.

But, as far as I am concerned, the message is clear: embrace the brown.

MALAGA’S soaring property market has reached new heights with an 11m2 studio apartment listed for sale at €125,000.

Situated on Calle San Telmo, in the historic centre, the flat’s ‘spectacular location’ is compromised by its price.

The property is listed at 14m2, but the advertiser notes only 11m2 is usable.

That puts the price per square metre at €11,364, which is nearly triple the average price per square metre in the city centre, standing at €3,932.

To make it even less desirable the studio is located on the ground floor of a residential building.

While the apartment’s size is minimal, the listing on Idealista highlights its clever space optimisation.

The key features include a living area with an integrated kitchenette, equipped with essential appliances, a compact and modern bathroom, and a lofted sleeping space which makes use of vertical height to create separation from the main living area.

The flat also has an exterior-facing window, providing some natural light despite the limited space.

Villa Niwa is 4,231m2 and is surrounded by 10 hectares of land, while boasting nine bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, plus a jacuzzi, sauna, gym, two swimming pools, wine cellar, games room, spa and lift.

EUROPEAN Union funds are being used to pedestrianise Malaga’s historic centre. The plans will cut congestion in the old town and generate new interest in the areas of El Molinillo, Cruz de Humilladero, Capuchinos and Las Flores. The €30 million project will benefit over 48,000 residents by ‘regenerating run down areas’. As well as pedestrianisation, new squares are being created with sustainability at heart. One of the main projects will increase access to the Gibralfaro mountain, including new hiking paths from Calle Victoria and picnic areas.

Calle Ollerias and Calle Marques de Cadiz will both be semi-pedestrianised, with trees added and footpaths widened. The area around the Mercado de Salamanca and Calle San Bartolome will also be pedestrianised with additional green areas.

A

LUXURY:

ELITE AUDIENCE

MARBELLA’S luxury real estate market is a competitive and highly demanding arena, attracting discerning international investors and promising buyers. To capture this elite audience, real estate agencies need to adopt advanced digital marketing strategies tailored to high-value property transactions.

1. Advanced targeting and global reach Traditional marketing’s limitations become evident in a market driven by international demand. Digital marketing enables hyper-targeted visibility through advanced SEO techniques, programmatic advertising, and data-driven campaigns. By leveraging geo-targeting and behavioural insights, agencies can position their listings precisely in front of high net worth individuals with demonstrated interest in Marbella’s luxury segment.

2. Premium visual content and immersive experiences In the luxury real estate sector, visual storytelling is crucial. Creative photography, cinematic property videos and 3D virtual tours create an immersive experience that makes high-end properties unique. Interactive content such as augmented reality (AR) and drone footage further enhances engagement, and helps your listings stand out in a crowded digital landscape.

Digital marketing, a must for luxury real estate in Marbella

3. Data analytics and performance optimization Digital marketing offers sophisticated tools for tracking user behaviour and campaign performance. Using advanced analytics platforms, real estate agencies can monitor KPIs such as lead conversion rates, time-on-site, and engagement metrics. This data-driven approach allows for continuous optimization, ensuring that marketing budgets are allocated to the most profitable strategies.

4. Establishing digital authority and trust For real estate professionals, a strong online authority means credibility. High-quality content marketing - including in-depth market reports, expert blogs, and video insights - positions agencies as thought leaders. Coupled with verified customer reviews and case studies, this builds a solid digital reputation that attracts serious buyers and investors.

Partner with experts in Real Estate digital marketing At Supermedia Studio, we specialize in bespoke digital strategies for luxury real estate in Marbella. From advanced lead generation to content curation, we align our expertise with your business goals to maximize visibility and ROI. Let’s redefine your digital presence!

FLAT PACK HOMES

By Yzabelle Bostyn

BUYERS in Spain are snapping up prefabricated homes for just €20,000 in a new trend. In recent years, prefabricated houses have experienced a significant surge in popularity, with more people opting for these modular homes to establish roots in Spain.

Modular

The trend shows no signs of slowing down, with market experts predicting a 20% growth in prefabricated home construction by 2024.

JUST WHERE CAN YOU PUT UP A PREFAB?

PREFABRICATED homes are surging in popularity in Spain amid a continuous rise in property rental and purchasing prices.

The so-called ‘prefab’ structures are mass produced off site, making them far more affordable than traditional properties.

But what does the law say about erecting such structures and can they be built anywhere?

The answer will depend on the type of land you want to build on.

Plots of land in Spain are categorised into three categories: urban,

developable and rural. According to Spanish law, prefab homes are perfectly allowed on any land that is determined as ‘urban’ or ‘developable’. But you may have trouble if you own ‘non-developable’ or ‘rural’ land.

According to national law, non-developable or rural land is that which cannot be used for purposes other than agriculture, forestry, livestock, hunting and, in general, linked to the rational use of natural resources.

Such plots of land lack basic urban services, such as water,

These €20,000 prefabricated homes are taking Spain by storm

These residences, often referred to as modular houses, can be found at prices starting from around €20,000, though additional costs are inevitable.

The boom of prefabricated housing in Spain is a testament to the global wave of modular constructions. By 2030, it is anticipated that 40% of homes in Spain will be prefabricated.

lighting or sewage. One option for placing a prefabricated house on non-developable land could be for it to be mobile. If the home is mobile, it is considered a movable property because it is not anchored to the ground and does not need a foundation. Nor would it need to be connected to water and energy supplies. However the corresponding city council could take action if it believed the property was being misused.

Before erecting any structure on land, you must consult legal advice and local and regional planning authorities.

Millions worldwide have already embraced this movement, drawn by the numerous advantages it offers over traditional housing.

One of the key reasons for the rise of modular homes is the significant reduction in construction time.

A prefabricated house is built in a factory and later transported to its final site, cutting down on the time required to build a home from scratch.

Additionally, the cost of constructing a modular home is notably lower than that of a traditional house.

Buyers are also attracted by the flexibility and customisation options these homes offer, as well as their superior energy efficiency.

The quality of prefabricated homes has improved significantly, with manufacturers now using high-quality materials to avoid common construction problems. With homes available for just over €20,000, modular constructions provide an appealing alternative to the skyrocketing costs of building a traditional home or purchasing a second-hand villa or flat.

IT’S POLITICS

Reports of a 100% tax on property purchase for non EU residents should be taken with a pinch of salt

AS a mortgage broker in Spain, I can provide insight into the recent announcements regarding housing measures and their potential impact on the mortgage market.

The recent press coverage following Pedro Sanchez's announcements on housing issues in Spain has been largely sensationalised and was really intended to play to his domestic audience. The reported 100% purchase tax for nonEU residents is misleading and not based on factual information.

Purchase taxes in Spain are set by individual autonomous regions, not the central government. These taxes currently range from 6% to 10%, depending on the location.

Each region has different political alliances, making it unlikely that a uniform, drastic increase in purchase taxes would be implemented across the country.

Implementing discriminatory taxes against specific groups would require significant constitutional and legal changes. Given the current political landscape with no clear majority in parliament, the likelihood of such drastic measures being approved is minimal.

The European Court of Justice has previously ruled against discriminatory tax practices for non-resi-

dents within the EU. This precedent could potentially challenge any attempts to implement unfair taxation policies.

It's more likely that any changes will focus on properties used for income generation or second homes. We may see some adjustments in taxation for these types of properties, but not to the extreme levels reported in the press.

The government's announcements are a response to growing discontent among Spanish citizens, particularly in cities and tourist areas.

While there are challenges in the housing market, there isn't a real housing shortage in Spain. Many unoccupied properties could be utilised for affordable housing. In any case, there is little overlap with the types of properties purchased by overseas buyers.

Non-resident buyers considering a Spanish mortgage should not be overly concerned. While the cost of owning property in Spain may increase slightly over the next few years, it will not reach the extreme levels reported in some media outlets.

In conclusion, while we're keeping a close eye on potential changes. As always, we recommend thorough research and consultation with professionals before making any property investment decisions.

Offering you help, support and advice during your search, through the buying process and personal after sales services.

We have a wide range of properties to interest our clients, from small village houses to large country fincas or cortijos.

Tel/WhatsApp: (+34) 669 249 539 email: info@andalucianpropertysales.com www.andalucianpropertysales.com

Oscar perk

World’s leading actors handed nights in stylish new Barca hotel

By Yzabelle Bostyn

THIS is the elegant hotel in Spain chosen to be part of this year’s Oscar nominees prize pack.

Barcelona is the cosmopolitan capital of luxury in Spain, so it’s no surprise that its Cotton House Hotel was chosen by Oscar organisers as one of the prizes for this year’s nominees.

Found on Gran Via de las Cortes Catalanas, the five star hotel is part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott. The stunning 19th century building was

once the city’s Cotton Producers Association and is offered to Oscar nominees for an indulgent three night break.

It is one of three hotels selected by the organisers as part of the ‘Everyone Wins’ prize packs alongside the Santani in Sri Lanka and the Joali in the Mal -

EVER HIGHER

THE March release of the Knight Frank Wealth Report is another clear sign that Marbella’s trajectory as a luxury home destination is set to continue.

The annual report looks at the state of global High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) and Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs). The current picture is one of continued growth, which is reflected in the growth of prices and sales in Marbella and the Costa del Sol more broadly.

This has occurred despite the tightening of monetary policy until recently, with high interest rates hurting many markets. Marbella - and Spain more broadly - was spared the impact of these policies because of two factors.

The first is that Spain’s real estate market remained undervalued and only recently caught up to price levels from the peak in 2007.

The second factor relates to the luxury market. Those who buy luxury homes are relatively insulated from the impact of higher interest rates. Such HNWIs can purchase properties without debt or they can service debt more painlessly.

And the number of HNWIs is growing globally at a rate faster than the economy itself. According to Knight Frank, the number of HNWIs grew in 2024 by 4.4%. The IMF has

Marbella’s luxury market set to continue growth

measured global growth at 3.2% for the year, which was also the rate of growth of the Spanish economy. It was the fastest growing economy in the eurozone.

The Wealth Report also found a rebound in interest in acquiring property amongst HNWIs. Fully 44% of respondents stated that they intended to expand their real estate investments in 2025. only 8% indicated an intent to reduce holdings.

MARBELLA PUNCHES ABOVE ITS WEIGHT

These factors are reflected in the strong Marbella property market. On the one hand, according to Knight Frank, luxury home prices in Marbella rose by 7.2%. That is significantly above the rate of inflation. It is also significantly above the global average, which was just 3.1%.

Spanish Property Insight published statistics in late 2024, covering the first half of the year. They found that Marbella property sales had grown by 10%. By their measure, prices had actually risen by 12%, which would put Marbella in the top five cities in the world (Knight Frank has Marbella at number 13).

Marbella was also recently listed has having 5 of Spain’s ten most expensive streets in terms of real estate

The Property Insider

by Adam Neale

prices.

This makes sense given that the city has had a ten-year streak of price hikes totalling over 105%.

Knight Frank expects the number of wealthy individuals to continue to grow, totalling 28.1% between 20232028. That is less than the 44% growth in HNWIs in the five years prior. But it is still a substantial increase. It will mean adding millions of newly wealthy to the global population.

The lion’s share of the newly wealthy will come from Asia, which will see growth of 38%, followed by the Middle East at 28.3%, Australasia at 27% and North America at 25.7%. This represents a real opportunity, and Marbella is stepping up to the plate.

A strong economy, amazing climate and world class infrastructure will continue to make Marbella and the Costa del Sol attractive to HNWIs. The city and region have an established luxury real estate market that continues to outperform the rest of the world.

CHALLENGES FACED

Overall, the shift towards the luxury market in Marbella and the towns surrounding it, has been positive. It has provided thousands of jobs and attracted money that has built world class infrastructure.

The need to compete in attracting the global elite, and the higher tax base, means that there are more beautiful beaches, more sports facilities, more

dives. A refuge

from the busy city, the Cotton House has a library, various lounges, marble staircases, a bar, restaurant and relaxing terrace.

For wellness buffs, there’s a calming pool, gym and spa, as well as on site tailor and travel advisor.

You can also enjoy a drink or a dip in the hotel’s rooftop

great restaurants and other amenities. These improve the quality of life of everyone.

Nonetheless, as elsewhere, there are growing pains. This is especially true when it comes to housingor the lack thereof.

Some of the 8-12% price growth in Marbella can be attributed to the sale of expensive luxury properties. But a not insignificant amount is the result of broad-based price increases.

A number of articles appeared in February-March, 2025, calling this the ‘Marbella Effect’, which spoke of a lack of affordable housing in both Marbella and it environs. Relying on statistics from Idealista, the Spanish real estate portal, the numbers were stark.

In nearby Istan, just 7.8% of properties were priced below €300k, totally 76 properties. In Ojen it was even fewer at 6.56%.

For those seeking rental housing, it’s near to impossible to find anything for less than €1000 and many

pool with views over the city.

Just a stone’s throw from all the main landmarks including the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo and La Pedrera, the hotel is a relaxing oasis in the middle of Barcelona. It has 83 boutique rooms and five suites, starting at €415 per night for two people. Included in the pack is the Damasco Suite, with beautiful frescoes decorating the walls, a wide balcony facing Gran Via and a King Size bed crowned with a romantic canopy.

Guests can snuggle down on the plush sofa with a fresh coffee, reading one of the many books that line the walls.

landlords will only rent by the month, excluding high season. The attraction of the lucrative tourist rental market is too strong to resist.

Beyond the human impact of high housing costs, it could hamstring Marbella’s luxury sector as well. The tens of thousands of workers who provide services, maintenance and products to the Marbella economy need to have places to live. It won’t matter if there are good jobs if it still isn’t enough to live within a short drive of work.

That said, it is a positive sign that awareness of the multi-sided need for housing to sustain the current luxury housing boom has reached the highest levels. It means that there are discussions in motion at the level of policy and investment.

In the meantime, Marbella has excellent momentum, as does Spain as a whole. A strong economy, amazing climate and world class infrastructure will continue to make Marbella and the Costa del Sol attractive to HNWIs.

The Church of San Bartolome, Sevilla

This striking example of Mudejar architecture is the Church of San Bartolome in Sevilla.

Built in the 14th century, this church exemplifies the use of brick and tile that defines the Mudejar style.

Its bell tower, known as the Torre de San Bartolome, features a series of decorative brickwork and tile patterns, showcasing the artistry of the period.

The church’s interior is equally impressive, with beautiful altarpieces and wooden ceilings that reflect Islamic influences.

It not only serves as a place of worship but also as a living museum of the artistic traditions that thrived in Andalucia.

The Cathedral of Toledo

In Toledo, the Cathedral of Saint Mary stands as a magnificent example of how Mudejar influences were integrated into Gothic architecture. Although primarily Gothic in style, its Mudejar tower, constructed in the 12th century, is a standout feature.

The tower’s brick façade and intricate tilework showcase the decorative richness typical of Mudejar craftsmanship. Inside, visitors can find additional Mudejar elements, particularly in the beautifully-crafted wooden ceilings that demonstrate the skill and artistry of Moorish craftsmen.

The cathedral’s harmonious blend of styles is a testament to the cultural exchanges that shaped Spain’s architectural heritage.

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TURNING ON THE

MUDEJAR architecture, a unique style that emerged in medieval Spain, serves as a stunning reminder of the country’s rich cultural tapestry. This style developed under the influence of Islamic design principles during the Christian Reconquista, when Muslim craftsmen continued to work in conquered Catholic territories.

The result is a breathtaking fusion of Islamic aesthetics and Christian functionality, characterized by intricate tilework, ornate stucco, and stunning brick construction.

Today, several remarkable examples of Mudejar architecture remain around Spain, each narrating a story of coexistence and artistic ingenuity. The best surviving examples - from

Mudejar architecture is a testament to cultural fusion

By Phoebe Williams

the majestic Aljaferia Palace to the intricate details of Sevillas’s Church of San Bartolome - invite us to explore the beauty of this unique architectural style.

Whether in the grand palaces of Zaragoza or the intimate churches of Andalucia, Mudejar architecture stands as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of coexistence.

Here are some of the best examples:

The Alcazar of Sevilla

One of the most famous Mudejar palaces in Spain, the Alcazar of Sevilla was originally a Muslim fortress

The Casa de Pilatos, a 16th-century palace in Sevilla, blends Italian Renaissance and Mudejar styles. Its courtyards, wooden ceilings, and intricate ceramic tiles reflect the continued influence of Mudejar aesthetics during Spain’s Golden Age. Visitors can admire its horseshoe arches and delicate stucco work, hallmarks of the Andalusian Mudejar tradition. See review on page 20.

before being expanded by Christian rulers.

The Palacio del Rey Don Pedro, built in the 14th century within the walls, is an outstanding example of Mudejar architecture, featuring exquisite stucco decorations, geometric tilework and intricate wooden ceilings.

It remains one of the best-preserved royal palaces in Europe and a testament to the lasting influence of Mudejar art.

The Casa de Pilatos, Sevilla

STYLE

The Aljaferia Palace, Zaragoza

One of the most celebrated examples of Mudejar architecture is the Aljaferia Palace in Zaragoza, originally constructed in the 11th century as a residence for Muslim rulers.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site it showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of the era, featuring horseshoe arches, intricate plasterwork, and beautifully tiled walls.

The palace’s stunning patio, adorned with a series of arches and vibrant azulejos (ceramic tiles), reflects the elegance and sophistication of Mudejar design. After its reconquest, the palace was repurposed by the Catholic monarchs, yet it retained its Islamic architectural elements, symbolizing the blending of cultures that defines this style.

ARE YOU OWED €40,000-PLUS?

TENS of thousands of mostly British homeowners in Spain could be owed a cool €50,000 in compensation after crafty banks were exposed for putting a hidden clause in their mortgages.

If you had a mortgage from Sabadell, Unicaja or many other banks, you could be in for a big windfall.

It stems back to the early 2000s when a string of lenders secretly wrote in their clients’ contracts that interest rates could not drop below 3.5% – in what is now known as a ‘floor clause’.

However, for a decade, between 2011 and 2021, the interest rates in Spain sat at a record low, between zero and 1%.

Thousands of homeowners in Spain could be owed giant sums, plus compensation over scandalous ‘floor clause’ mortgages – this is how you claim ‘no win, no fee’

What this meant was tens of thou-

sands of homeowners spent years paying hundreds of euros more per month than they should have done.

One legal firm in southern Spain has been at the forefront of winning back money for affected homeowners – and on a promised ‘no win, no fee’ basis.

Fairway Lawyers boss Diego Echavarria, based in Marbella, told the Olive Press that one of his latest clients, the Coopers, were recently awarded a total of €21,075, plus legal costs.

The British family had bought a home in Riviera del Sol, in Mijas, in 2006, but didn’t sell up until recently. They were totally unaware of the floor clause issue until they read about it in a copy of the Olive Press last year. Now, after six

months of legal wrangling, Echavarria, originally from Madrid, has won them the fee, plus compensation.

“It’s always a bit of a game and involves plenty

of legal letters being pinged backwards and forwards, but I know what I’m doing having done this for years now,” he explained.

It comes after the golf-loving lawyer, a member of Guadalmina, won another British couple, the Brighouses, €48,359, last summer.

The couple had bought an off-plan apartment in Mirador de Costalita, in Estepona, in 2004.

They took over the mortgage from the developer, which contained the hidden clause and they ended up paying an extra €250 per month than required. It was the fourth case Fairway Lawyers have won on homes in Mirador de Costalita alone.

There are thousands of similar cases all around Spain in which expats or former expats had no idea they were victims.

“Right now I am handling cases all

over the country,” explained the father-of-two.

Warning signs

There are two tell tale characteristics to look out for; Your mortgage was signed off between 2001 and 2010 and your payments were the same amount for a large number of years.

“What is key is they will not have lowered for years,” continued the lawyer, who also handles many other legal work, in particular conveyancing from his office in Marbella.

He added: “Even if you have sold the property and paid off the mortgage, you can still claim.

“There is no deadline since the latest ruling from TJUE (Tribunal de Justicia de La Union Europea).

“There are around 100,000 mis-sold mortgages that have yet to be resolved in Spain.”

If you want to claim for a mis-sold mortgage or feel you may have been affected, contact diego@fairwaylawyers.com or send a message via Whatsapp

Simple process

WHAT BANKS WERE INVOLVED IN FLOOR CLAUSES?

Most Spanish banks, but especially Banco Popular (now merged with Santand- er), Caja Duero, Caja España (merged with Unicaja), La Caixa, Solbank, Sabadell and many other savings banks which have since been taken over by major banks.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR MAKING A CLAIM?

You need to submit a claim be- fore the bank to try to reach a settlement out of court. Then comes a three-month period in which you await their response. Unfortunately the Spanish banks do not want to reach any kind of agreement or set- tlement and they always force the clients to go to court to get a positive ruling. They do this because they hope clients will get fed-up with the process and drop the claim – which is why we operate on a no win no fee basis.

ANCIENT: One of the most celebrated palaces in Spain Continues on next page

Teruel, a city renowned for its Mudejar heritage, is home to the Church of San Martin, built in the 14th century.

Its bell tower, decorated with geometric brickwork and glazed ceramics, is a masterpiece of Aragonese Mudejar design.

The tower, along with other Mudejar landmarks in Teruel, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Palacio de Gaudi offers a fascinating glimpse into the Mudejar revival movement of the late 19th century.

While primarily known for its Neo-Gothic style, the palace incorporates Mudejar elements, particularly in its tilework and decorative details.

The building’s façade, with its striking spires and intricate brick patterns, pays homage to the historical style while embracing modern techniques.

Architect Gaudi’s interpretation of Mudejar aesthetics serves as a bridge between the past and the present, illustrating the enduring influence of this architectural tradition in contemporary design.

Located in the province of Leon, the Church of San Tirso is a fine example of Mudejar Romanesque architecture.

Dating back to the 12th century, the church is built almost entirely of brick, a

defining feature of Mudejar style. Its horseshoe arches, blind arcades, and intricate brick patterns demonstrate the fusion of Islamic and Christian influences in northern Spain.

Another jewel of Teruel’s Mudejar legacy, the Tower of El Salvador, was built in the 14th century.

Its elaborate brick patterns and ceramic inlays make it one of the most stunning Mudejar towers in Spain. Climbing the tower offers breathtaking views of Teruel’s historic centre, a city often overlooked but rich in architectural treasures.

The Tower of El Salvador, Teruel

The Palacio de Gaudi, Astorga

The Church of San Tirso, Sahagun (Leon)

ENDURING: Mudejar aesthetics still influence modern design

From previous page

The Church of San Martin, Teruel

BEAUTIFUL: The church features intricate brickwork and tiling

Have a look at our website and find your perfect home. Either second hand or under construction we are going to guide you all the way through your purchase experience.

FUENGIROLA centre, ground floor apartment completely renovated to high standards, offering lots of space with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully fitted open plan kitchen and very pleasant lounge, community swimming pool and gardens, within walking distance to services and beach. Ideal home for disabled!

MIJAS road, detached villa in peaceful setting offering 150 m2 built on 414 m2 plot built to maximise the space with 4 bedrooms, 3½ bathrooms, modern spacious kitchen, lounge with fireplace, dining area, surrounded by terrace and relaxing areas around the swimming pool, spacious garage for car and extra storage. Ideal as home and rental income. Great value for money.

FUENGIROLA Torreblanca, bright and cosy duplex penthouse apartment with beautiful views over the sea and mountains, very pleasant and sunny comprising of 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully fitted kitchen, large lounge with fireplace leading to large sunny terrace with glass curtains. Garage space, storage room, community with community pool and gardens, must be seen! Ref: 059 – 389.000 € Ref: 012L – 439.000 € Ref: 060 – 599.000 €

Fuengirola centre, cosy bar-cafeteria in the prestigious Puebla Lucia complex, with regular clientele it makes a living all year round. Located in busy area surrounded by shops and residences, very nice and spacious terrace in very quiet square within the complex makes it a very pleasant and safe place to enjoy breakfast, tapas, appetizers and more. Excellent value, must be seen!

070 – 160.000 €

Magnificent detached villa in the prestigious urbanisation Valtocado, in a very peaceful position with sun all day, panoramic views over the sea and mountains, very bright and spacious with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, guest toilet, large kitchen, large lounge with access to large sunny terrace overlooking sea, mountains and pool, self-contained apartment with one bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette and lounge, large snooker room, large garage, private pool and more…

Ref: 016L – 1.495.000 €

FUENGIROLA center, beautiful villa in the heart of the town within few minutes walk from nice beaches, restaurants and shops, offering 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen with access to rear patio, lounge and terrace wrapping the main living area, self contained apartment with one bedroom, bathroom, open plan kitchen, spacious lounge and large terrace. Needs work and has great potential as home or rental income.

Ref: 008L – 499.000 €

LOS BOLICHES Fuengirola, very bright apartment within a nice complex with community gardens, several pools and tennis court, offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, open plan kitchen, spacious lounge and sunny terrace. Great as home and as investment for rental income. Good value, must be seen!

021L –949.000 € Ref: 013L – 355.000 €

Discover this exclusive townhouse in the prestigious Urbanization Artola, Marbella, located in an exclusive residential area, just a few minutes from the sea, golf courses, and all amenities with 203 m² build offering panoramic views of Mediterranean sea, 3 bedrooms, 3½ bathrooms, spacious kitchen and bright loungediner with access to the sunny spacious terrace and private garden leading to community pool shared by only 3 neighbours, ensuring peace and privacy. Includes a private garage.

MIJAS

FUENGIROLA CENTRE

FUENGIROLA TORREBLANCA

FUENGIROLA CENTRE

FUENGIROLA CENTRE

MIJAS VALTOCADO

FUENGIROLA, LOS BOLICHES

MARBELLA

NEW HORIZONS

Let Imperial Estate guide you every step of the way

WITH over 25 years of experience in the real estate market, Imperial Estate delivers a comprehensive, high-quality service tailored to your individual needs.

Mudejar Easter escape

Imperial Estate is a family business born and led by Fabiola Lozano, together with her daughter Johanna Lozano. With over 25 years of experience, they combine expertise with a personal touch, supported by a multicultural team fluent in several languages, with a strong focus on the Scandinavian market here on the Costa del Sol.

Known for their warm, approachable manner and attention to detail, they are committed to delivering exceptional service. From the initial consultation to the handover of keys - and beyond - they are always available to assist with any questions, concerns, or post-sale needs.

Visit Pontius Pilate's House to learn about mudejar style, the stations of the cross and where Cruzcampo beer got its name

By Michael Coy

ONE of Sevilla’s most beautiful monuments, Pontius Pilate’s House is a place of grace and elegance.

At the heart of Imperial Estate lies a genuine passion for person alised service and building lasting relationships. Their motto, ‘a real estate agency with a personal touch,’ reflects their com mitment to supporting clients not just during the transaction, but through every stage of the journey. Whether you’re buying, selling, or looking for guidance, Imperial Estate is always by your side, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience.

Imperial Estate utilises advanced marketing strategies and the latest technology to ensure your property gains maximum ex posure, reaching a wide audience both locally and internation ally. From accurate property valuations to complete guidance through the whole process their dedicated team ensures a smooth and stress-free experience from start to finish. Whether you’re planning to sell your property or searching for your ideal home on the sunny Costa del Sol—from a charming Andalucian villa to a stylish contemporary new build—Imperial Estate is here to help.

Ready for a change?

Graceful columns, beauty everywhere you look, scented bougainvillea cascading over walls, and a small but lovely garden all combine to create an atmosphere that stimulates the brain and charms the senses.

As we come up to Easter, some of us will recall the Bible stories from our schooldays, particularly the one where Jesus Christ was taken as a prisoner to appear before the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. The Jewish people were demanding his crucifixion, but the Roman politician refused to get involved, famously ‘washing his hands’ of the whole affair.

Get in touch with Imperial Estate today and take the first step towards your next chapter.

This is the perfect moment to learn about Pontius Pilate’s House (‘La Casa de Pilatos’) in Sevilla. But before we explore the house, it’s important to talk about ceramic tiles, known in Spanish as ‘azulejos.’

We all know that the ‘Deep South’ of Spain, the region known as Andalucía, was under Arabic rule between 700 and 1500 AD. One of the lasting characteristics of this era is the use of azulejos. In the hot summers, tiles helped keep the interiors of houses cool. Muslims, who were strictly forbidden from making any drawing or design that might resemble Allah

or Mohammed, focused on geometric patterns instead. This skill was maintained and even improved after Andalucía reverted to Christian rule.

Casa de Pilatos showcases some of the best tiles you’ll ever see, on the very walls they were designed to adorn. These tiles have been in place for 600 years! Its genesis began when a local aristocrat, Fadrique de Rivera (First Marquis of Tarifa), went on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem in 1519. While there, he was shown the supposed ruins of Pontius Pilate’s Palace, and upon returning to Sevilla, he decided to build a replica. They sold him a small marble column, which they claimed was the pillar to which Jesus was tied when he was flogged. Fadrique’s imagination was ignited,

and he planned to create a ‘Via Crucis’ (a replica of Christ’s route from Pilate’s Palace to Calvary, where he was crucified) in Sevilla.

On Good Friday, Fadrique envisioned the religious people of Sevilla gathering in his house to pray at the marble column. They would then walk in procession along his ‘route,’ ending in a field outside the city walls, where he would have a cross erected. This area became known as the ‘field of the cross’ (‘el campo de la cruz’). When a German brewery bought the site in Victorian times, they named their beer ‘Cruzcampo.’

You can visit the House’s ground floor (‘planta principal’) on most days of the year. The entrance costs 12 euros (with all the usual discounts available, and children under 12 getting in free). However, we suggest you try to pick a day when the upper floor is open. It costs a little more, but it’s well worth it.

The house is still the home of the Dukes of Medinaceli, and when the family is not in Sevilla, you can tour their domestic quarters and view their fine collection of Old Master paintings. The house, of course, doesn’t resemble a Roman governor’s palace from biblical times. However, it is a marvelous ‘transition’ piece, with clear Renaissance features. Since Arab craftsmen were employed as masons and carpenters, it also has a definite ‘eastern’ feel. This is one of the reasons why Pontius Pilate’s House has appeared in various films.

In 1962, several scenes of Lawrence of Arabia were filmed here. Ridley Scott also used the location for two of his movies: 1492: Conquest of Paradise (1992) and Kingdom of Heaven (2005). Additionally, Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz filmed Knight and Day here in 2009.

STUNNING: The internal patio has featured in several Hollywood productions

FEATURES: The gardens and statues hark back to earlier eras

29thDecember 12th 2023

HISTORY FOR SALE

BUILT the year that Napoleon invaded the Iberian Peninsula, this stunning mansion has seen its fair share of colourful history.

Set over three floors in the heart of one of Spain’s most emblematic coastal towns, it is said to have secret tunnels running below it.

Just 20 steps from Javea’s 14th century San Bartolome churchfortified by the Knights Templars - La Taberna would make the perfect boutique hotel or family home.

With a restaurant-bar licence for 80 clients, it is already a successful business crying out for a sensitive makeover.

Incredible business opportunity in the heart of Valencia’s most emblematic coastal resort

maintaining its restaurant and evocative internal patio.

Also next to Javea’s bustling municipal market, you have greengrocers, butchers and fishmongers literally right on your doorstep, not to mention tapas bars.

This is pole position in the Costa Blanca’s most upmarket, exclusive resort and the old town has been growing exponentially over the last few years.

Located in the picturesque and warm historic center of Jávea, Taberna de Já d it associated properties offer a uni in one of the most charming are Blanca With its narrow cobbled adorned with flowers, and a mag especially at nightfall, the hist Jávea is a place that invites yo discover

Built in 1807, La Taberna de Javea was joined by a second property in 1846 adding further bedrooms and at one point was the village school.

Now owned by a retired engineer

explained owner Michelle Collins. “We spent two years and have done all the hard work to get its licence and deeds in order.

This environment not only attrac all over the world but is also the mmunity, making it a ess

and his wife, an artist, from Dublin, they ran a successful furniture and antiques business on the coast for years.

“We love it here and will be staying in Javea,”

“The restaurant licence is up to date and it can easily make €750,000 a year, with a further €300,000-plus from the bedrooms upstairs.”

The pair, who moved to Javea 20 years ago, fell in love with the two buildings a decade ago.

It had been for sale through various sites, but the complicated deeds with various owners put most potential buyers off.

It didn’t help that complicated roadworks meant the old town was effectively cut off to visitors for years.

“It took two years to sort out historic inheritance issues and discrepancies between the town hall and the land register,” added Mi-

All now on one deed, the property has an amazing collection of furniture, which could be acquired by agreement.

Much of it is antique and there is an old bulls head on the wall that brings in Spanish bullfight fans from all over the country.

“It’s worth around €4,000 I’ve been told and lots of people come to get pictures taken with it,” continued Michelle, a keen music fan, who has hundreds of regulars each week.

Most of the long term locals re-

member it when it was a school half a century ago and parts of it have protected status.

Anyone looking for a dream investment opportunity in a rapidly growing upmarket tourist town should get in touch with Michelle at hst.michelle@gmail.com or call 0034 622325385.

The current asking price has just come down to just €1.45 million for a quick sale before summer.

CHARM: La Taberna’s internal patio

POLE POSITION: Next to

Javea’s famous church

chelle.

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CHOP AND CHANGE

What €200,000 buys you around Spain in 2025: The Olive Press takes a regional view alongside Kyero

FANCY playing a game of Spanish property bingo?

Property portal Kyero has scoured the regional markets to see exactly what €200,000 buys you this year.

Whether you dream of waking up to Mediterranean views, tending an olive grove, or running a historic hideaway on Galicia’s Camino de Santiago, Spain has something for everyone.

It’s clear from a basic trawl of the country on the in ternational site that €200,000 can stretch from a small studio in the Balearics to a big mountain villa in Almeria.

ALICANTE

The Costa Blanca offers some of Spain’s best value coastal properties.

In Playa Flamenca, €199,000 gets you a thoroughly modernised two-bedroom bungalow that wouldn’t look out of place in a design magazine, complete with 60m² terrace and private solarium.

“Spain’s property market rewards the flexible buyer - those willing to look beyond the familiar destinations and perhaps trade a sea view for a mountain vista,” Louise Dell, Co-founder of Kyero, told the Olive Press.

“There is a good chance they might just find their perfect slice of Spanish life for a bargain price.”

Here, we take a peek behind some front doors and see how far your euros could stretch around eight regions.

MALAGA

The Costa del Sol continues to command pre mium prices, but venture slightly off the tourist trail and €200,000 still goes remark ably far.

Take Nerja’s Capistrano neigh bourhood, where €195,000 secures a one-bedroom apartment (inset above) with enviable sea views, complete with community pool and maintained gardens.

Meanwhile, nearby Algorfa demonstrates why the area remains popular with budget-conscious buyers. A €195,000 two-bedroom villa in Lo Crispin offers a private garden, communal pool, and glazed-in terrace, all within an established urbanisation.

Reference: THK44-62436-2851

Reference: P7334

MURCIA

While the Costa Calida might lack the name recognition of its flashier neighbours, it compensates with seriously competitive pricing. In La Manga, €199,000

€200,000 buyers, but persistence reveals some hidden gems.

In Santa Ponsa, for example this budget stretches to a 33m² penthouse with mountain views and access to two community pools - though you’ll need to embrace compact living.

More surprisingly, inland Sant Joan offers a different vision of island life: a rustic 40m² farmhouse set in over 10,000m² of land. Complete with solar power and mains water, it proves that even in the Balearics, compromising on location and size can still secure a slice of Mediterranean charm - albeit a rather petite one.

ALMERIA

For those willing to trade sand for serenity, inland in Alcaucín (below), €199,000 buys you a three-bedroom villa in need of an upgrade but with enough land to add a pool.

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ment with direct Mar Menor views - a position thatnificantly more in equivalent Costa del Sol

room, two-bathroom layout makes it an ideal lockand-leave holiday home. Inland check out La Puebla where a three-bedroom terraced house with generous outdoor space can be yours for €199,000

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MALLORCA

The Mediterranean’s playground presents a tough challenge for

For those seeking an escape from coastal crowds, Almería’s mountain regions offer remarkable value.

In Los Blancos, near Chirivel, €195,000 secures a recently renovated detached villa with spectacular mountain views and enough garden space to rival a small farm.

Sitting at 1,000m altitude, it offers that increasingly rare Spanish property combination: genuine tranquility with easy motorway access.

Meanwhile, in Vera, the same budget buys a brand new apartment just 400m from the expansive El Playazo beach. It features aerothermal heating, private parking, and community pools.

Reference: SKNBG-32209k CATALUNYA

The northeastern corner of Spain

Reference: 2374 Reference: 948 €195,000

reveals some surprising gems.

In Tossa de Mar, €195,000 buys a townhouse in Santa Maria de Llorell with sea views and access to private coves - a rarity on the premium Costa Brava.

For those preferring terra firma to waves, the same budget in Tortosa secures a beautifully restored 94m² stone farmhouse set in an impressive 19,000m² of land. Complete with fruit orchards, mountain views, and just minutes from the historic city centre.

GALICIA AND ASTURIAS

Spain’s verdant north offers a dramatic departure from the Mediterranean, both in style and value.

In Mondoñedo (above), in Galicia, €199,000 buys a sprawling country house with nearly 7,000m² of land, bordered by a stream and sitting directly on the Camino de Santiago. Future pilgrim hostel, perhaps?

Meanwhile, in Asturias (top), a traditional stone house with an authentic hórreo (granary) commands a similar price.

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CANARY ISLANDS

Island living comes at a premium, but €200,000 still opens doors in Tenerife. In tourist-friendly San Eugenio, this budget secures a studio apartment with Siam Park views and heated pool access - ideal for winter sun seekers. For those preferring a more local vibe, Puerto de la Cruz offers modern apartments with mountain views and holiday rental potential at €195,000. While space is more limited than mainland Spain, year-round warmth and strong rental yields continue to attract investors

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DUPLEX PENTHOUSE, LA TRINIDAD Ref: OP15297

GARDEN APARTMENT, MARINA PUENTE ROMANO Ref: OP14482

144 m² | Terraces: 41 m² | Beds: 3 | Price: € 3,500,000

VILLA WITH STUNNING VIEWS, NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Ref: OP15069

669 m² | Plot: 1,590 m² | Beds: 7 |

UNIQUE FAMILY VILLA, EL HIGUERAL Ref: OP15331

396 m² | Plot: 1,050 m² | Beds: 5 | Price: € 2,195,000

GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT, MONTE PARAÍSO Ref: OP14674

€ 3,995,000 BEACHSIDE TOWNHOUSE, MARBELLAMAR Ref: OP11731

LA CULTURA

A story of water Forging new paths

MELILLA has inaugurated its own Camino de Santiago route, the first path to run from the African continent.

The ‘Via Rusadir’ was inaugurated by Galicia’s regional president, Alfonso Rueda and Mellian leader, Juan Jose Imbroda.

According to the Melilla Memorial Foundation, the 972 km route has been designed with scenery in mind.

The route begins at the Capilla de Santiago, Africa’s only gothic style chapel.

It stands in the shadow of the Melilla la Vieja lighthouse; the silhouette of which forms a Mediterranean Scallop, a symbol of the Camino.

Pilgrims then continue along the coast with views of the stunning Ensenada de los Galapagos beach.

A DOCUMENTARY about Doñana National Park will come to Spanish cinemas this summer.

DOÑANA: Where Water is Sacred explores the park’s traditions, ecosystems and species. It also shines a light on the effects of severe drought on the region as well as efforts to conserve the Iberian Lynx.

films focussing on the country’s nat-

ural resources. The films have frequently been honoured by Spain’s filmmaking industry, with Guadalquivir and Cantabrico both nominated for Goya awards.

“By bringing Doñana to the big screen we’ve found a new way for Spaniards to get closer to nature,” director Carmen Rodriguez said.

San Patrick

A SPANISH enclave in North Africa is one of the few places outside the English-speaking world to officially recognise St Patrick’s Day - thanks to an Irish military hero.

Melilla has been honouring Waterford-born General John Sherlock with 10 days of fes-

OLD TIMER

KEY FIND: Could the jaw be crucial in understanding evolution?

By Walter Finch

tivities to mark the 250th anniversary of his historic defence against Moroccan forces.

Sherlock - known locally as Juan - is credited with successfully defending Melilla against

ARCHAEOLOGISTS have uncovered the oldest known human face in the West - a 1.4-million-year-old cheekbone and upper jaw - from Sima del Elefante, a cave system near Burgos. The fossil belonged to a human and predates pre vious finds in Western Europe. Researchers believe the remains resemble erectus but could be a distinct branch, naming it Homo af finis erectus. The fragment, nick named ‘Pink’ after

a 100-day siege by Moroccan Sultan Muley Mohamed Ben Abdal-Lah and his 40,000 troops in 1775. The siege was lifted on March 19, just two days after St Patrick’s Day, making last week’s commemorations particularly significant for residents.

Pink Floyd, provides new insight into early human life in Europe. At the time, Spain was a fertile landscape teeming with wildlife. Fossilised tools and butchered animal bones suggest early humans thrived here. However, extreme climate shifts around 1.1 million years ago may have led to population changes.

This discovery adds a new piece to the puzzle of Europe’s earliest inScientists say more fossils are needed to confirm where this species fits in human evolution.

“It was the biggest challenge of my career so far, filming over thousands of miles while the park was in a very delicate situation.”

Filming in the ‘most important wetlands in Europe’ while they were ‘bone dry’ was a challenge, but it forced the crew to consider a diverse range of subjects as well as presenting the dangers of water scarcity. It will be released on May 30 in cinemas across Spain.

Why does Melilla officially celebrate Paddy’s Day and what are its Irish links?

Melilla, a 12 square kilometres

Spanish territory on Morocco’s Mediterranean coast with 86,500 people, has maintained strong ties to Ireland since Sherlock’s heroic stand.

This year’s celebrations included exhibitions, tours, and lectures about Sherlock’s life and the famous siege. The enclave’s Irish connections don’t end there.

Three streets are named after generals of Irish heritage, including General Leopoldo O’Donnell, a descendant of Donegal’s O’Donnell clan, who won a decisive battle in 1860 that confirmed Melilla’s status as Spanish territory.

performances. Melilla and its sister enclave Ceuta have been flashpoints in Spain-Morocco relations for centuries.

A ‘Sherlock Route’ guided tour is set for March 29, taking participants through Melilla’s Irish street names with bilingual explanations and musical

Spain insists both territories have been Spanish since the 15th century, but Morocco disputes this - mirroring Gibraltar’s sovereignty debate. Both enclaves sit at the frontline of migration to the EU and are heavily fortified with security fences.

Recent diplomatic tensions include Morocco closing customs posts in 2018 and allowing migrants into Ceuta in 2021. Despite ongoing disputes, Melilla and Ceuta residents remain firmly in favour of staying Spanish.

By Span-

ish production company, WandaVision, the documentary is one in a series of

LA CULTURA

Fireworks and fiestas

Four of the more unusual festivals to celebrate spring this year

By Yzabelle Bostyn

SOMETHING FISHY: Fun to be had if you know a sardine...

SNOWY Golf has announced its next tournament for young elite golfers.

From April 21-23, junior athletes will have an opportunity to battle it out at Club de Golf

La Cañada in Snowy Golf’s La Cañada challenge.

The tournament is for under-21 male and female golfers from any background, looking to break out and catch the eye of college coaches.

In addition, there is an under-14 category.

Club de Golf La Cañada is located in the municipality of San Roque, in the province of Cadiz, and is designed by the renowned architect Robert Trent Jones.

He was the mastermind behind Valderrama golf course, one of the most prestigious in the world.

Participants will compete individually in a stroke play format over 54 holes at La Cañada’s iconic venue.

The registration fee includes a practice round on April 20, and those wishing to play must register by April 18.

Snowy Golf’s tournaments enable juniors throughout Europe to gain World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) and European Golf Ranking

(EGR) points. In turn, aspiring stars can catch the attention of college coaches in the US, and boost their chances of securing college scholarships; a key step on the road to a professional career.

Snowy Golf has already staged a successful tournament in Spain.

Last year, from December 6-8, 33 competitors participated at Santa Clara Golf Club, Marbella. There were 15 different nationalities involved, including those from Britain, Spain, and Germany, and there was even a 9-year-old who competed.

Snowy Golf’s elite junior tournaments are held in the UK throughout the summer months, and hosted in Spain and Portugal in the winter. The company has a strong presence on the Costa del Sol, but it plans to expand further afield in Spain, particularly along Costa Blanca.

Snowy Golf was founded by Collin Pennington, in memory of his father, John ‘Snowy’ Pennington, who devoted his time to junior golf. Now, John’s vision to give young golfers the chance to shine on an international stage, is being carried on.

IF YOU WANT A PLATFORM TO EXCEL YOUR YOUNG GOLFING CAREER, THEN SIGN UP TO THE LA CAÑADA CHALLENGE. VISIT WWW.SNOWYGOLF.COM/ TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT @SNOWYGOLF_ ON INSTAGRAM AND @SNOWY_GOLF ON X

Spain is gearing up for the fiesta season even before the Easter processions.

Throughout spring and summer, towns and cities across the country will gather to remember their strangest traditions, from celebrating New Year’s Eve in August to chucking paint at a thief hoping to steal the Virgin Mary.

Easter fasting and abstinence, to revive the carnival spirit.

Today, the sardine troops spend the days clowning around to local people before the parade.

Thousands in fancy dress comically sob over the dead sardine

But, some of Spain’s most unique fiestas take place in the spring, including Murcia’s curious ‘Burial of the Sardine’.

On April 6, locals gathered to watch 30 ‘sardine troops’ march through the streets in a parade.

The festival began in 1850, when a group of students decided to form a ‘court’ presided over by a sardine, who symbolised

Then, thousands take to the streets in mourning or fancy dress, comically sobbing over the dead sardine.

Toys are thrown to children, fireworks are set off and, crucially, a huge sardine is burnt, sparking a party which endures until the early hours.

Equally strange is Salamanca’s Procession of Moss Men.

Held in the town of Bejar, the event celebrates the festival of Corpus Christi.

The tradition dates back to the 12th century, when, according to legend, Christians reconquered the town from Muslim rule by entering in the dead of night, covered in moss.

It was merged with the Corpus Christi procession in the 14th century and is now a huge cultural festival, with plays, exhibitions and lectures.

Locals also take part in a balcony decorating contest to mark the occasion.

Also coinciding with Corpus Christi, is La Patum de Ber-

MOSS MAN: Strange ritual dates back to 12th century

ga, in Catalunya, which runs from June 18 to June 20.

This festival sees Berga filled with a host of unique characters including dragons, eagles and ‘big heads’ (people wearing huge paper mache heads).

The highlight of the festival is the salto de plens, a dance said to represent a devil’s orgy.

Ironically, this profane act is followed by events for children the next day.

Although for the British, bonfires are associated with the cold days of November, in Spain, they mark the start of summer.

On June 23, locals used to go to the countryside for a feast to celebrate the summer season. When midnight arrived, they would light campfires and dance around them, throwing firecrackers in the flames before a dip in the sea.

After years of this custom, the Bonfires of San Juan (Alicante) were officially constituted in 1928. Today, the festival has become a homage to fire in which enormous wooden figures are burnt in an event not dissimilar to Valencia’s fallas festival.

If you love fireworks, this fiesta is for you, as at 2pm everyday between June 20 and 24, Los Luceros square hosts a range of pyrotechnic shows.

Locals also choose a ‘Beauty of the Fire’ to represent local women, so if you fancy seeing the beauty of bonfires up close, make your way to Alicante.

FLAMES: The Bonfires of San Juan are reminicent of Valencia’s Fallas and (top) some of the figures before they go up in smoke

Get your TIE!

Green residencia card or certificate is no longer enough

THEM AND US!

I GENERALLY concur with Tom Ewart Smith’s online article about the Entry/Exit System (EES). Nevertheless, it could usefully have been expanded to say that UK residents of Spain with Tarjetas de Identidad Extranjero (TIE) are treated the same as EU citizens once initially registered on their first trip back into Spain. So no question of stamping for them. It is particularly important for those residents still using the old green residence certificate (pre Brexit) to get a TIE as that contains biometrics and also confirms Withdrawal Agreement rights. The European Commission has yet to set out the step by step guide to that initial EES registration . Similarly these individuals should be exempt from ETIAS.

Nigel Aston, President, EuroCitizens (Spain), Vice Chair British in Europe

AS a migrant from the UK who has been happily living in Granada province for over seven years, I prefer not to call myself an expat, as it implies a certain detachment from the community and country where I reside.

Stop using the term locals - we all live here! community. With your large readership, you have the opportunity to change the dominant narrative by using alternative phrases. Instead of ‘locals’, using terms like ‘local people,’ ‘people living in Granada,’ or ‘local residents in central Malaga’ can humanise individuals and foster empathy rather than hostility or othering.

I am writing to address the extensive use of the term ‘locals’ in the Olive Press. I find this term to be ‘othering’ at best and discriminatory and racist at worst.

Recently, I read your story about ‘locals’ training people in opposition to over-tourism, and I noticed how this terminology creates an ‘us and them’ situation in the reader’s mind.

I am a local resident. Those born here are also local residents and could be referred to as ‘local people,’ as they live in a locality or

Our letters bag has been bulging since we broke the news of the collapse of Iberian Funeral Plans…

Good work

WE were extremely concerned having read your report Iberian Funeral Plans. We have a plan with Iberian which is due to complete during August of this year. We will keep an eye on your reporting of this matter in the hope that a satisfactory conclusion can be reached. Keep up the great work OP!

Richard Broome, by email

Not aware

Sian Jones, Granada

Editor’s note: The Olive Press often uses the word ‘locals’ to refer to residents of a particular area, no matter what their nationality. Indeed, we have spoken to many foreign nationals over the years who have joined in ‘local’ protests.

MY wife and I took out a plan with Iberian on June 11 2013 at a cost of £5,74. If we had not seen the report in your newspaper we would be unaware of this expat disaster.

David & Dorothy Allen, Nerja

Brits again

SOMETIMES we get ripped off - perhaps it’s through our own stupidity, or maybe faith in the person who plots to defraud us. In my case, it’s usually a fellow Brit that scams me.

Lenox Napier, Mojacar

No trust

WE took out a funeral plan with Iberian on November 2, 2015 at a cost of €7,190. According to the literature it seemed genuine, with a head office in Spain, one in Portugal and one in Macclesfield, UK. There must be more than one person involved in this scam but I do not hold out any hope that any of them will be found. My faith in funeral plans has vanished. I will never trust one again. Thank you for bringing it to everyone's notice.

Bob Cozens, Nerja

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

THE British press is warning tourists of po tential hikes in holiday charges of up to 200%.

The Sun and Wales On line have reported that holiday taxes on some Balearic Islands could

Cava setback

SALES of Spain's Cava sparkling wine fell by 13% last year as vineyards in the main producing area of Catalunya suffered from the ongoing drought.

Export sales figures dropped further by 18%.

Cava prices rose by 11% due to inflation and reduced supplies.

The Cava Designation of Origin, which includes main producers like Codorniu and Freixenet, said that domestic sales were only down by 3.56%.

The group represents 349 wineries with 38,000 hectares of vineyards.

Spain is the world’s main consumer of cava, followed by Belgium and America.

Total DO Cava sales were 218 million bottles in 2024, with around 30% sold at home.

TOURIST TAX HIKE

shoot up dramatically this summer. They claim cruise ship passengers could see overnight charges increased from €2 to €6. It comes as part of new measures

proposed by the Balearic government which would affect Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera.

Maximum overnight charges could rise from €4 to €6 per per-

Moment in the sun

Restaurants

join elite 3 Sols club in 2025 Repsol guide

TWO restaurants have been given the highest 3 Soles award by the 2025 Repsol Guide at a gala ceremony held in Tenerife. Joining the select 3 Soles group of 44 establishments are La Finca under chef Susi Diaz in Elche and Baga run by Pedro

Border red tape

BRITISH travellers to Spain and the EU will face delays at border controls from 2026 due to new biometric screening and continued passport stamping.

The EU’s long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES), set for phased roll-out from October 2025, aims to replace manual passport stamping with digital biometric registration.

By Alex Trelinski

Sanchez in Jaen. Susi Diaz opened her restaurant 40 years ago in an old farmhouse. “Making a dish that triggers

Travellers must provide fingerprints and facial recognition data, stored in a central database.

However, the staggered implementation means UK visitors will endure both biometric checks and passport stamping until April 2026, leading to bottlenecks at airports, ferry ports, and railway stations.

With millions of British tourists visiting Spain annually, experts warn of severe congestion and travel disruption.

son per night. On the higher end of the scale, four and five-star accommodation could be slapped with a €42 per person per week tariff.

However, there is good news for winter travellers, with tourist fees for January and February scrapped.

memories of my childhood is more important than thinking about the future,” she said.

“There is a mackerel marinade recipe from my grandmother which I have brought up to date with an aroma that wakes up the diner!”

For Pedro Sanchez, offering variety is important.

“I think more about what the product asks me for, rather than about the actual dish.

“I try to visualise it as if I didn't know it so that without any bias, I can come up with an original treatment,” Sanchez added.

Some 17 restaurants received 2 Soled for the first time, with a further 71 getting a single Sol from the prestigious food guide.

Around 60 inspectors made the choices with expert knowledge of cuisine and restaurants in a particular region.

There are now 789 restaurants with Repsol awards across Spain, with the largest number - 115 - in Catalunya. Andalucia boasts 77 accolades and the Valencian Community has 65.

Repsol’s chairman, Antonio Brufau, highlighted ‘the chefs’ willingness to economically boost the environment, collaborating with producers, artisans and other local businesses’.

“This is a commitment that creates community and is the key to continue growing,” Brufau stated.

BEACH HAPPY

A BIZARRE new study analysing 100 beaches worldwide suggests that Spain is home to the happiest beach on the planet. London-based travel agency CV Villas used AWS facial recognition technology to scan thousands of Instagram photos, determining which beaches had the most smiles - an unusual but intriguing method of ranking the world’s most joyful coastlines.

Spain dominates the podium, with two of its beaches ranking among the top three.

Taking the top spot with a near-perfect ‘beach happiness score’ of 98.42 is Sitges Beach (below), located 40 km from Barcelona.

The second ‘happiest’ beach in Spain is Port de Soller, located on the picturesque northwest coast of Mallorca.

It ranks third worldwide, behind Praia da Falesia in Albufeira, Portugal.

Meanwhile, Cala Pregonda, a secluded gem on the north coast of Menorca, takes 11th place globally.

SUNNY DELIGHT: for Susi Diaz and Pedro Sanchez

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Crossing the border

Just a few hours drive from Malaga’s coastline, Portugal’s Algarve region is a gem at any time of year. But it shines especially bright in spring, when sun drenched beaches have not yet been inundated with summer tourists.

While the trip is manageable in one sitting (as we did), you could stop along the way in the Spanish spots of Sevilla and Huelva to make the most of your journey. The Andalucian capital, Sevilla, comes alive at Easter with religious spectacles, ornate thrones and pompous parades. You’re sure to notice a buzz around town, as well as the pointy hats of the Nazarenos as dozens of brotherhoods

By Yzabelle Bostyn

throughout the city hold processions during holy week.

I recommend going on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday to catch a few before heading onwards.

After Sevilla, head straight to Portugal or if you don’t mind spending a night in Spain, continue onto Huelva.

There, you can admire the beauty and wildlife of Doñana National Park, and if very lucky see the rare Iberian lynx.

Nearby, the enchanting town of El Rocio is worth a look for its sandy, picturesque

ITALIAN CHEER

By Dilip Kuner

IT was a damp, chilly Saturday with an icy wind whistling down the Benalmadena mountain, making the highly visible cable car - as seen on countless ski slopes - feel actually appropriate for this normally sunny destination.

As my wife and I scurried along the eerily quiet harbour walls of the port our spirits were sinking fast.

And then came the near heart-stopping moment when, huddled against the stiff breeze, we spotted Metro Ristorante Italiano perched entirely outside.

“I should have brought my warmer coat,” exclaimed the missus, not a fan of such chilly nights.

While no doubt idyllic on a warm spring evening, the terrace had no place in this biting wind.

It was with relief

Metro Ristorante Italiano warms you up, even on the chilliest winter day

that I gently turned my wife around and pointed her towards the actual restaurant and we entered the warm and friendly embrace of the busy and bustling eatery.

The simple but classy decor is as far from the ‘classic 1970s trattoria’ - with basket clad bottles adorning the walls - as can be. It’s far more attuned to modern Italian style.

Shown to a table by the friendly and welcoming manager, we settled into some surprisingly comfortable seats and reached for the menus.

There is plenty of choice here, from a good selection of salads - too many to list here - classic pasta dishes with a modern twist, and pizzas from the wood-fired oven.

But, lovers of pasta that we are, we decided to eschew those - delicious though they sounded - for dishes from the grill to see what Italians can do without their traditional staples.

We began our gastronomic adventure with two enticing starters. The Vitello Tonnato showcased tender slices of veal adorned with a creamy tuna sauce that perfectly balanced richness and delicacy.

The combination of the firm but tender veal, accompanied by the flavour of tuna and capers, sun-dried cherry tomatoes, rocket, quails eggs and

streets frequented by handsome horses.

If you can’t get enough of Huelva, check out the main city and surrounding beaches such as Playa de Rompeculos.

Whether you’ve spent a couple of days between Sevilla and Huelva or hopped straight to Portugal, your first stop is the hamlet of Cacela Velha.

After driving to the border town of Monte Gordo on a Friday afternoon and sleeping at the Hotel Quinta da Rosa Linda, we set off bright and early on Sat-

parmesan, sounded like it might be a little too much with such strong flavours on the plate. But the skilled chefs got the balance absolutely spot on.

Accompanying this was the Crostini Toscano, a delightful medley of flavors featuring toasted bread topped with creamy goat’s cheese, sweet caramelised onions, and fresh pear, all brought together by a tangy balsamic reduction.

For our main courses, we indulged in the Seabass Fillet a la Siciliana and the Beef Tagliata.

The seabass was a testament to the chef’s skill, roasted to perfection and complemented by the bold flavours of black olives and sweet cherry tomatoes. Served alongside baby potatoes and finished with a signature butter sauce, it was a harmonious dish that celebrated the essence of Sicilian cuisine.

I satisfied my carnivore tendencies by zooming in on the Beef Tagliata, which demonstrated the restaurant’s expertise in meat preparation, similar to their offerings of chargrilled fillet or rib eye. It was sliced entrecote topped with rocket, parmesan, truffle sauce and cherry tomatoes served with baby potatoes. It gave the beautifully grilled-to-rare-perfection

urday morning to discover this quaint spot.

A coastal village dotted with blue and white fishing houses, Cacela Velha makes a charming introduction to Portugal.

Wander along the cobbled streets to reach the church, where you can admire panoramic views over the ocean.

Trace along the wall to the old fortress before making your way down the steps towards the beach and lake.

On a sunny day, you will be treated to a landscape of golden sands, blue skies and vibrant greens, dotted with ramshackle fishing boats.

“

Though small, Cacela Velha is well worth your time on your way to the Algarve.

About a 15 minute drive away you’ll find your first stop in the coastal hotspot, Tavira nestled along the Gilao river.

Popular with expats and tourists, Tavira’s historic centre is full of beautiful town houses decorated with intricate tiles.

Tavira’s historic centre is full of beautiful town houses decorated with intricate tiles

“

The Jardim da Alagoa is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and a pastel de nata on a spring day, with plenty of local cafes lining the square.

steak a real Italian twist.

Our sweet finale also did not disappoint.

The Italian Mess was a twist on the traditional Eton Mess, combining crisp meringue, juicy strawberries, and whipped cream with smooth vanilla ice cream.

The Classic Tiramisu was executed flawlessly, with coffee-soaked biscuits layered between clouds of creamy mascarpone.

All these courses were served by well trained staff who offered the perfect balance, being attentive without us feeling rushed, allowing us to enjoy each course at a leisurely pace.

As we walked back to the car, fortified against the wind-chill by the hearty meal we had just enjoyed, my wife and I agreed - like the Terminator, ‘we’ll be back’! visit www.metroristorante.com

PARADISE: The stunning Portimao beach

FRIENDLY WELCOME: But the terrace (inset) was a tad chilly!

FOOD, DRINK & TRAVEL

November 29thDecember 12th 2023

Algarve is the perfect weekend getaway

After wandering down through the garden, enjoy lunch in the Praca da Republica before heading to your next destination.

Next is one of the highlights of your Algarve adventure, the city of Faro. Dubbed the ‘Palm Springs of Portugal’, Faro is home to the largest con centration of modernist buildings in southern Europe.

Though often unloved and over looked, this is exactly what lends the city its ‘laid back’ charm, perfect to be enjoyed on a lazy spring afternoon.

A visit to the historic centre is incomplete without a wander to the old cathedral, the town hall and the creepy Capela dos Ossos, decorated with the bones of former monks.

Vibrant

After a stroll on the seafront, we began to feel peckish so opted for dinner at Cantinho, a traditional eat ery with tasty options for veggies and meat eaters alike.

Looking for an Easter escape? This road trip from the Costa del Sol along the resort Albufeira, at the Smy Santa Eulalia Hotel.

However, if you have time to spend another day in the area, we recommend venturing out of the town to discover Faro’s highlights.

The Parque Natural da Ria Formosa is a great excursion in kayak or boat, alongside the Ilha Deserta and

looking out at the views but if you manage to tear yourself away, the city of Lagos waits for you.

A vibrant city, Lagos’ collection of restaurants and bars peppered with bright facades and street art makes it feel youthful and

Popular activities include a wander around the old town, museums and other excursions to nearby islands and beaches.

The final stop on this mammoth Algarve road trip is the dramatic coastline of Sagres, the most western point in Europe.

The next day, we headed straight to the tourist favourite of Portimao.

It's easy to see why the beach town is so beloved from the moment you step foot on the coast. Fine, golden sand stretches as far as the eye can see, only interrupted by towering rock formations which stand out against the turquoise water.

You could spend hours wandering between the coves and

While you can visit the historic Fortaleza de Sagres, you can also enjoy the impressive views around the fortress without paying a penny.

I recommend taking a walk ing the force of nature as huge

Unfortunately, this was the end of the road for us, but if you are lucky enough to have more time, the western coast of Portugal is also home to stunning beaches

VIBRANT: The city of Lagos is full of culture, while (right) the stunning Benagil sea cave

END OF THE ROAD: Sagres is Europe’s most western point

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SPAIN'S leading supermarket chain Mercadona posted record net profits last year of €1.3 billion.

That was an annual rise of 37% and its best result in its almost 50-year history of trading.

Sales continued to grow reaching €38.8

Supergreedy

billion - an annual increase of 9%.

Mercadona’s chairman-owner, Juan Roig, described the figures as ‘spectacular’.

Spain's lower inflation rate helped to account for the strong increase in Mercadona's revenue.

Roig pointed out that income rose despite the average price of a shopping basket at the store falling in 2024 by 2% - an equivalent of €6.

RISING STAR

SPAIN has been highlighted as one of the emerging economic success stories.

In a recent article, the Financial Times referred to the nation as a ‘new economic star’.

Ruchir Sharma, chair of Rockefeller International, writes that, for Spain, the Eurozone crisis of the 2010s, and the more recent pandemic, forced significant fiscal reforms. These changes have now con-

Spain’s economy praised by internationally renowned economist

By Tom Ewart Smith

tributed to its current recovery. The country implemented measures such as reducing benefits for pensioners while increasing aid for its impoverished population, leading to a decrease in

Airport award

ALICANTE-ELCHE airport has won a ‘Best in Europe’ award for the fifth time.

The 2024 honour was given by the Airports Council International (ACI) for facilities serving between 15 to 25 million passengers. It recognises excellence in service and options available to travellers and is awarded by analysing passenger feedback.

Travellers are quizzed about their experience in various categories including access, staff friendliness, and security control waiting times.

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deficits and public debt.

Spain’s economic recovery also stands out due to its response to demographic challenges.

While many European nations are tightening borders, Spain has adopted policies to attract immigrants and has eased labour market regulations to

GROWTH UPGRADE

THE OECD says Spain's economy will grow even faster in 2025 and 2026 - upgrading last December's forecast.

It added that the country was in a stronger position than the rest of the EU to deal with the fallout from new US tariffs imposed by Donald Trump.

The OECD has raised Spain’s growth forecast by 0.3% to 2.6% this year, in line with government predictions, with 2.2% in 2026..

In contrast, growth figures for EU members including France, Germany and Italy have been downgraded.

address labour shortages, a key factor for long-term economic stability.

Spain is part of a broader trend in which nations, often after crises, have restructured their economies and started to see positive results.

Sharma points to Spain, Greece, Argentina, South Africa, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka as notable examples.

Reform

These six countries ‘were forced to reform because their finances were stretched thin by the pandemic,’ the author says. “The recovery is visible in rising stock markets and improving credit conditions,” he claims.

The Financial Times highlights that while no country is without its flaws, nations undergoing deep reforms are showing signs of long-term recovery.

The rise of Spain, alongside others, reflects the ongoing cycle of economic renewal, where nations are reemerging as economic players after periods of crisis.

BE CONNECTED

The Sky Doctor: Premium TV and internet services on the Costa del Sol

THE Sky Doctor is a market leader in the telecommunications industry and offers premium customer service.

Founded in 2000, The Sky Doctor has been helping its customers in Spain connect with their favourite UK and European TV channels.

Based on the Costa del Sol, the company offers stateof-the art satellite systems, Fibre Optic, CCTV Security systems, and MIFI rental internet, among other superb products.

Aimed at those of a ‘Brexit’ generation, The Sky Doctor’s 360-degree approach is perfect for anyone looking to purchase TV services for a temporary period or on a month-to-month basis.

The key to their success is the personalised service they provide for customers.

The Sky Doctor was born out of a belief that their clients need products that suit

their own requirements - at a good price.

Mark Wood, owner of the company, says customer service is ‘paramount,’ and notes that ‘if someone has a problem, we are on it’. “That’s why we do it,” Mark says, emphasising the company’s commitment to fostering a positive and trustworthy relationship with clients.

Beyond just offering services, The Sky Doctor provides expert advice and onthe-ground support, ensuring that customers - whether residents or holidaymakers - stay connected with ease. With over two decades of experience, a loyal customer base, and a reputation for fast, reliable service, The Sky Doctor remains the goto provider for British expats and international clients looking for seamless entertainment and internet solutions in Spain.

Saved by a heroine

A YOUNG Cordoban woman has been praised after jumping into the Guadalquivir river to save a cat during intense flooding last week.

Gill-ty

A MADRID smoker’s club has been shut down for selling drugs and keeping an exotic shark. Police arrested three people and seized over 400 grams of illicit substances.

Moo-vie star

SUPERMAN actor Henry Cavill visited A Coruña last week to buy some Galician Blonde cows. Rumoured to be the next James Bond, Cavill has a farm outside London.

Satisfalla

Welcome to NewCADIZtle

Locals joke that they are ‘living in the UK’ after weeks of non-stop rain and storms

ANDALUCIANS are joking southern Spain has turned into Britain after weeks of non-stop storms and rain soaked the region.

Social media users in Andalucia joked: “Mama made

By Yzabelle Bostyn

fish ’n’ chips for tea – it’s official, we’re Brits now!”, after 18 days of relentless downpours left streets look-

Couldn’t wait

A BRITISH ‘groom to be’ has been escorted off a plane by Guardia Civil agents after reportedly vaping on a Ryanair flight from Manchester to Alicante. It was shared by TikTok user and comedian @Katerinarobinsoncomedy.

“This man was vaping for the whole of the flight, he had a warning from the pilot and then when we landed the police arrived,” she said, showing the Guardia Civil agents waiting for the man.

ing more Scarborough than Sevilla.

Another commented: “I went to order an Alhambra 1925 today and the waiter told me they only had Guinness or London Pride.”

“Everything was kicking off. Apparently the man was getting married in Spain, imagine that being the man you’re marrying, how embarrassing, all for a pineapple vape on a two hour flight.”

Meanwhile in Sevilla, an X user quipped: “The Giralda now looks like Big Ben!”

Local news outlet Andalucia

Directo posted a picture of a typical Andalucian breakfast of tomato on toast slowly morphing into a full English with the caption ‘12 days of non-stop rain.’

A VIBRATOR shaped sculpture championing ‘female empowerment’ was spotted at Valencia’s fallas festivities. The ‘satisfyer’ sex toy is seen coming out of a UFO with a nearby sign reading ‘CAUTION: abduction area’. Dubbed the ‘saisfalla’, it was exhibited in Calle de Turia before being burnt in the crema festivities. While it seemed a funny aside to many, the sculpture was actually part of the ‘Stellar Revolution’ falla recognising the ‘astronomic’ future of women and girls.

Rocket

On Instagram, users added to the jokes, saying: “Now Malaga is Malachester, Cadiz is Newcadiztle, Almeria Almeripool, Sevilla Seffield and Huelva Huelvham.”

Another chimed in: “Next thing you know, we’ll be queuing for tea and moaning about the rail strikes!”

Weather boffins blame a ‘stubborn low-pressure system’, but drenched Andalucians reckon it’s karma.

It showed a girl holding an astronaut’s helmet, looking up at a lipstick rocket and was designed by Raul Martinez, el Estudio Chuky, and Marina Salazar (No Queda Tinte). It is surrounded by tongue in cheek references to women in science, such as a breast shaped planet, references to a ‘girl invasion’ and a robot wearing high heels. According to Salazar, it symbolises ‘empowerment and breaking the glass ceiling’.