Olive Press Andalucia Issue 467

Quixotic city

JAIL FOR JODY

SHE was best friends with TV star Denise van Outen and had more shoes than notorious Filipino first lady Imelda Marcos.

But the glamorous life of fashion designer Jody Smart has come to an abrupt end after she was found guilty of fraud in Spain.

Smart - aka Jodie Pearson - will now swap first-class trips to New York’s fashion week for a Spanish jail cell for the next three-and-ahalf years.

An Alicante Court ruled she was behind part of the notorious €35 million Continental Wealth Management (CWM) swindle and must pay €370,000 to two victims.

Judge Francisco Javier Guirau also found her guilty of conning a third victim, Mark Davidson, out of €930,000, however tragically he passed away before the verdict was reached.

Smart told the Olive Press the frauds were ‘a consequence of loans between individuals, in which my…signature does not appear.’ Her lawyer added it is ‘uncertain she will end

Costa restaurateur found guilty of fraud after scam linked to €35 million CWM scandal

EXCLUSIVE

By Jon Clarke & Walter Finch

up in prison’ as he launches an appeal this week. The court however, es tablished that Smart was behind the fraud of one victim of €300,000 under the false pretence of purchas ing a property.

istrator of Continental Wealth Trust, while the court also named her then-husband, Darren Kirby, as being in on the scheme.

Along with colleague Alan Gorringe, who has since died, Smart also defrauded another victim of

€70,000 through a sham loan agreement. The court ruled Smart was the

While Smart was involved with CWM when it collapsed in 2017, Kirby was the sole administrator and was thought to be the mastermind. Smart, who describes herself on Instagram as a ‘fashion designer, wellness expert, philanthropist, wedding planner’, also runs a successful beach club, Oceana, in Benissa.

Victims claim she founded her fashion label off the back of the many people she scammed out of their life savings through the CWM investment scheme.

On Instagram she flaunts her glamorous lifestyle on foreign trips to Greece, Thailand and Venice.

The victims meanwhile - at least one who committed suicide after losing his life savings - have had to wait nearly a decade for justice

Time to act

A CLASS action is being launched against ‘defunct’ funeral planning company Iberian.

Carlos Haering is representing 20 clients who fear they have lost more than €4,000 each after the company apparently collapsed.

after a series of delays.

But, the sentence, issued by Alicante’s Audiencia Provincial court, is being seen as a massive victory for the victims and could now open the floodgates to many more.

Incredibly, at least half a dozen other senior CWM figures have so far managed to evade justice.

Angie Brooks, a pension expert, who the Olive Press has worked

their money back,” he told the Olive Press. He is ‘confident’ his clients’ have a winning case, although he admitted there is ‘no way of knowing’ if Iberian or its inheritors have any money in their bank accounts.

alongside to expose the decade-long fraud, said she was ‘delighted’ at the judgment.

long complicated class action.

“It’s been a seven-year battle, back and forth to the court in Alicante from my home in Granada and it’s cost me a fortune in legal fees.

“At least some justice has been done and she will have to cough up nearly half a million euros in damages and fees.”

She continued: “Incredibly, Darren Kirby has, so far, managed to get off as he was not a director or a shareholder in the company.”

A separate court in Denia ruled there was ‘insufficient evidence’ to prosecute four other senior figures of CWM in a decision that devastated the victims in 2023.

“It was complicated and the judge couldn’t get her head around it and threw the case out,” explained Brooks.

The Marbella-based lawyer will file the case against Iberian’s ‘administrators’ at Malaga Court, this week.

“We have to act in order to get

“But I tell my clients if you do nothing, you get nothing,” he continued. “If we get lucky, they will get their money back”.

See Heaven can Wait on page 6

“It’s great news, I’m happier than I’ve been in seven years,” said Brooks, who helped to guide the

“But now we are bringing a much bigger, stronger case against them.”

She continued: “We will send out a shuddering message to the pension industry.”

The Olive Press is aware of

er civil cases

brought in

GLOBE TROTTER: But her travels have been ended by a Spanish judge

NEWS IN BRIEF

Picasso Popularity

PICASSO’S popularity has been steadily growing amongst the Asian market with “Buste de femme” (1953) selling for £4.3 million to an Asian private collector at Sotheby’s last month.

Shot bouncer

A MAN has been sentenced to prison after a violent nightclub row in Marbella left a security guard permanently disabled, although the actual gunman remains at large.

Easter pardon

TWO brothers convicted of drug offences have been granted a royal pardon and released from prison as part of a centuries-old Semana Santa tradition in Malaga.

Jailed

THE 15-month prison sentence imposed on a farmer who abandoned 170 geese to die of hunger, with ‘total disregard to their life’ has been upheld by Spain’s Supreme Court.

THE family of Grant Barr, a 37-yearold New York banker, has paid tribute to him after learning his body was found washed ashore on the Costa del Sol - weeks before they were informed. Grant disappeared on January 28 while visiting friends and relatives in Estepona. His trousers and passport were found near a beach, prompting a desperate two-month search by his family, unaware that his remains had already

Body found

been recovered on March 3 and only identified in April through DNA testing. The family - his parents, Soheila and Michael, and brothers James and Luke - are now grieving not only the tragic loss of Grant, but also the painful revelation that his body had been discovered just days after his disappearance,

on March 3, yet was not identified until early April.

“We were notified late Friday that Grant’s remains were found washed ashore,” James told the Olive Press. “They found him on March 3, which means the last time we were all there searching for two weeks he was already found. However, they didn't even suggest that there was something they were looking into.”

GUNNED DOWN

A BRITISH man has been shot dead in Mijas as he finished playing football. The victim was said to be aged 30 and from the Merseyside area, but details have yet to be confirmed by police.

Witnesses spoke of eight to 10 shots being fired at around 8.10pm on Monday in Calahonda. It's believed that two men

Trio of shootings as Brit killed in Mijas assasination as he came off football pitch

By Alex Trelinski

may have been involved in the hit and waited outside the Naundrop sports club where their target was play -

CLEANING UP!

ing with pals.

The Guardia Civil cordoned off roads in Mijas to catch the killers but could only find their getaway car, which had been set on fire.

The Seat Cupra on foreign

A CLEANER at a Marbella bank has been arrested after allegedly stealing €16,000 in cash while mopping floors at the BBVA branch on Calle Serenata.

Employed by an external cleaning company, she reportedly took money from the cashier’s counter during a brief window each morning in early March, when staff were away.

Security footage showed her pocketing bills as she cleaned. The thefts went unnoticed until a routine cash count.

Police later discovered she had spent over €1,400 at a beauty clinic, raising suspicions about the use of the stolen funds.

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plates was found on a road leading to the AP-7 motorway with guns left inside. It's the third shooting in five days on the Costa del Sol, with two further incidents. One was a brawl on Thursday between families in Malaga City's Portada Alta district which end -

Death crash

TWO people died and three were seriously injured in a horrific car crash on the Carvajal promenade in Fuengirola. The 45-year-old Iranian driver, who tested positive for alcohol and had no valid licence, lost control at high speed, crashing into a lamppost and the terrace of a pizzeria.

The fatalities were a 47-yearold passenger and a 25-yearold pedestrian.

Several others suffered lighter injuries. The driver was arrested at the scene.

ed with a man being shot in the leg.

The following day, a person was shot close to Puerto Banus nightclub Fitz.

The man, understood to be from Liverpool, was shot at 4am as he left the club.

Residents have expressed alarm at the escalation of gun violence, with some calling for increased police presence and security measures.

Investigation

Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues, and no arrests have been made so far.

The identity of the victims have not yet been officially released.

Police patrols have been stepped up in Mijas and Marbella as part of a coordinated manhunt for the suspects.

A DEAD body was found in mysterious circumstances on San Bernardo beach in La Linea last week.

The body was lying face down in the sand near the area of the promenade at restaurant Mireia with no obvious cause of death.

Investigators were initially perplexed as it was quickly clear that the man hadn’t washed up on the sand as completely dry. However, the mystery was solved when it was discovered that he was a deceased 45-year old man who worked as a waiter in a local restaurant in La Linea.

Although the exact cause of his death hasn’t been confirmed by the autopsy, most signs point to the fact that the man suffered from a cardiac arrest.

Trouble in paradise

IT’S exactly the sort of high-end luxury that would suit the pampered characters of The

With its breathtaking location, expansive grounds and high-level security, the new Four Seasons Formentor hotel in Mal-

lorca has unsurprisingly been tipped as the next setting of the fourth series of the HBO show.

While no official confirmation has been made, it has been widely hinted that the producers are looking for the right location in Europe.

Having filmed in Hawaii, Sicily and Thailand, they wanted something less exotic, but still with unbelievable exclusivity.

The cast, including Jason Isaacs, Patrick Schwarzenegger and Parker Posey, also

complained that Thailand was too hot and too isolated.

And HBO drama chief Francesca Orsi recently admitted ‘chances are somewhere in Europe’, while producer Mike White does ‘not like the cold’ so it won’t be a skiing resort.

Intriguingly, the hotel that has only just reopened after a three year renovation, is offering guests an immersive experience inspired by 'The White Lotus'.

Until May 14, ‘the White Lotus Cabana’ offers visitors an exclusive poolside retreat with a curated menu reflecting the show's exotic locales.

Rock ’n’ rolling in

Spain prepares for a huge host of international names this summer

SPAIN’S summer music calendar is shaping up to be one of the most star-studded in history.

A host of recognised artists will descend on local stages across the country - from re mote mountain towns to coastal resorts.

One of the first big fes tivals is the Mallorca Live Festival in June, which welcomes British headliners Massive Attack and Suede, plus American legend Iggy Pop Later that month the Azkena Rock Festival kicks off in Vitoria on June 21 featuring Fogerty, of Creedence Clearwater Revival fame, who plays his only Spanish date there.

By Tom Ewart Smith

Manic Street Preach ers, Buzzcocks Dead Kennedys punk grit to the bill. Mad Cool Festival (Ma drid, July 10-13) remains Spain’s most internation al offering, with pop sensation Rodrigo mak ing her Spain debut, while Kings of Leon, ser Chiefs, Leon Bridg es, and Wombats all line up. Down south the Prod igy and DJ legend Carl Cox play the

A VIKING IN SPAIN

ERLING Haaland has been pop ping up like Where’s Wally on the Costa del Sol.

The Manchester City striker was spotted by eagle eyed Olive Press readers at Los Naranjos Golf Club and also in San Pedro. Haaland, who owns a €6 mil lion mansion in the Sierra Blan ca area of Marbella, was visiting the UC San Pedro girls team.

The Norwegian fell in love with the area when his national team trained there during COVID. The attacker has already scored over 30 goals this season, de spite his injury setback.

castle in Fuengirola at the Marenostrum festival in July and August, the Blaze Lionel Richie also

have shows.

In Marbella, the glitzy Starlite Festival will once again serve as a magnet for international stars.

Headlining this year’s lineup is Will Smith, who continues his foray into music after years away from the stage.

He’s joined by an eclectic mix includ-

ing The Beach Boys, Seal, Kool & The Gang, Santana, and The Script, bringing decades of chart-topping hits to the boutique venue nestled in a limestone quarry. Canadian rocker Bryan Adams meanwhile, will perform in the remote mountain town of Hoyos del Espino at the 18th edition of Musicos en la Naturaleza, a festival renowned for its dramatic natural setting in the Sierra de Gredos.

In the Canary Islands, Granca Live Fest in Las Palmas (July 3-5) continues to punch above its weight, drawing Jason Derulo to the Estadio de Gran Canaria alongside Latin and Spanish acts.

Finally, in Valencia, the Deleste Festival (May 16-17) will bring indie flair to Jardines de Viveros with The Vaccines and Teenage Fanclub.

From iconic legends to pop trailblazers, Spain’s 2025 festival season is shaping up to be a landmark summer for music.

de Armas and Tom Cruise have set tongues wagging after being spotted arriving in London together - after

The duo touched down via Tom’s private helicopter, with Spain-based Ana, 36, juggling her two beloved dogs. Cruise, 62, looked sharp in a white polo and dark pea coat. Though Ana - best known for playing Marilyn Monroe in

on

previously caused a

being seen dining together in Soho.

Sources claim their meetings are strictly professional, with talk of working on a Days of Thunder sequel, but fans are convinced something more is brewing.

LOCALS in sleepy Market Harborough in the UK were left gobsmacked when more than 100 Spanish football fans descended on their nonleague ground - chanting, singing, and turning a routine Saturday match into a fiesta to remember.

Olé The Bees

Harborough Town FC, who usually play in front of a modest crowd in the seventh tier of the English league, found their Bowden Park stands packed with noisy visitors in yellow kits, all the way from sunny Spain.

IT came from a wild partnership with Spanish YouTube channel La Media Inglesa, whose 440,000 subscribers voted to ‘adopt’ the Bees as their English club of choice.

The Spanish supporters - some travelling nearly 1,000 miles - brought drums, banners, and a carnival atmosphere. Despite the continental backing, Harborough Town fell 2-1 to St Ives Town.

ANA

Blonde - was born in Cuba, she holds Spanish citizenship and has lived here for years. The pair

stir

Valentine’s Day after

STORMING IN: (From left) Iggy Pop, Olivia Rodrigo, Kings of Leon, Bryan Adams and Jason Derulo

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TURN OFF THE TAPS!

By Dilip Kuner

A LUXURY water park billed as a ‘paradise for tourists’ has turned into a nightmare for locals in the Guadalhorce Valley. They insist the €267 million ‘Transcendence’ project, near Coin, would be devastating for local water resources.

Opponents of the rural development of hundreds of ‘casitas’ in the Barranco Blanco

area have now been backed by an explosive new technical report.

The environmental study, by Junta technicians, has issued a resounding thumbs-

Locals fume as Junta slams Franco family’s €267m ‘water park madness’

PARADISE: Barranca Blanco is threatened by the ‘Transcendence’ mega project

down to the proposed mega resort for the valley known for its lush springs and natural beauty.

According to the 12-page report, the project would irreversibly damage groundwa-

Not confident

MANILVA Mayor Jose Fernandez is staring down the barrel of a vote of no confidence. Fed-up former allies from Compromiso Manilva and Con Andalucia have had enough, accusing the PP mayor of bringing the town to a halt through his inaction. They also say he is wrecking vital investments.

The council showdown is set for April 28, and sources say the mayor’s days are numbered.

Meanwhile, Mario Jimenez, the proposed replacement who was previously mayor from 2016 to 2023, is sharpening his knives for a takeover.

He told the Olive Press: “We’re having the debate next week and hope for a change.” Manilva has the largest percentage of British expats registered on the padron in Spain.

ROME’S holy corridors are buzzing with whispers as the Vatican gears up to elect a new Pontiff following the death of Pope Francis on Monday.

Insiders say several Spanish cardinals are in the running for the top job in the Catholic Church, with fiery speculation mounting.

Top of the list is Cardinal Juan Omella of Barcelona, 79, a close ally of Francis with a heart for the poor.

Hot on his heels is Cardinal Jose Cobo, Madrid’s fresh-faced archbishop at just 59 years old.

ter systems, threatening the already fragile Sierra Blanca aquifer, the main source of drinking and irrigation water for Coin and surrounding areas. It warns of a ‘critical and unjustified risk’ to ecological stability and calls the plans ‘incompatible with sustainable hydrological planning’.

The report highlights several major concerns, including excessive consumption in a drought-prone area, as well as the risk of aquifer contamination from urban runoff and construction.

It also warns of permanent alteration of the natural hydrological flow, and the violation of protective zoning regula-

NOT WANTED

TORREMOLINOS Town Hall has been accused of racism after blocking a plan to house 150 migrants in the former Miratorre residence, citing serious legal and safety concerns.

Officials say the building lacks a first occupancy permit, fire safety compliance, and access to basic utilities.

The migrants were among 600 relocated from the Canary Islands to the mainland under a national plan.

The Town Hall slammed the proposal as ‘irresponsible’, accusing the property owner of trying to bypass regulations.

In response, the owner claimed xenophobia - a claim the council strongly rejected.

Holy race

And don’t rule out 64-year-old Salesian supremo Angel Fernandez Artime, originally from Asturias, who has global reach and a missionary spark. But bookies still favour candidates from outside Spain, like Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin or Filipino favourite Luis Tagle.

tions around sensitive habitats.

Ruling the project as ‘unfavorable’, it added it was not viable under current environmental legislation. It comes after local pressure group, Mesa del Agua, (left) collected over 9,000 signatures against the scheme, describing it as ‘water robbery dressed as entertainment’. Adding fuel to the fire, the developers behind the scheme - the Ardid Martinez Bordiu family - are direct descendants of General Franco, Spain’s former dictator. They had claimed the scheme would create 3,300 jobs and revamp the local economy, pitching Transcendence as ‘an eco-aware destination’.

March warmest on record

but across Europe March was the hottest on record.

Average

Around Europe the average temperature was 6 degrees centigrade, some 2.4 degrees above average. Globally, it was the second warmest on record.

CONTENDERS: (from left) Cardinals Angel Fernandez Artime, Jose Cobo and Juan Omella

Cover up?

THE mother of a Brit who died in a Spanish resort has slammed the police for caring more about protecting the town's reputation than catching her son’s killers.

Dad Brett Dryden, 35, from County Durham, was found dead with a gash to the head at his seaside apartment in Mojacar, Almeria, last July.

Police had initially told the family that Brett had died from a blood clot on his lungs after falling and hitting his head.

But a recently obtained autopsy contradicts this version of events, revealing it was likely a robbery and ‘there were significant marks on the body to indicate a physical struggle.’

Now, Brett’s mother, Sarah Adams, has told the Olive Press she’s ‘disgusted and angry’ at the ‘sloppy work’ and attitude of the Guardia Civil in investigating his death.

“They would rather bury it and claim it was an accidental death just to keep the good image of the town,” fumed the 56-year-old.

“We flew out immediately after hearing the news, but it was about five days before we managed to speak with them.

Embolism

“When we did they said it was a terrible accident, and he had had a pulmonary embolism, which led to him falling and banging his head.

“They were clearly trying to rush us to have the cremation in Spain. They even let his friends walk through the crime scene not once but twice.

“They actually closed the case, and a judge only ordered it to be re-opened and investigated correctly when I pointed out that Brett’s phone and money were missing.”

She continued: “We've just come back from Spain after getting the autopsy results, which was a right struggle to get hold of. And it states that there were signs of a robbery and a struggle in his villa.

“It’s now nine months since Brett’s death and we’ve still had no contact from the police.

“All we want is for them to cooperate and speak to us and give us an update. I want to know that they're doing something.”

The family are now planning to protest outside the town hall later this month. Their son had moved to Mojacar in

By Walter Finch

2019 to set up a legal cannabis club.

The former Nissan worker was found dead by friends when he failed to return from a siesta.

Adding to the family’s suspicions that he had been the victim of a crime, his Gucci sunglasses, cash savings and phone were found missing.

Most disturbingly, Sandra insists that a silent call was made to her from his phone after he died, leaving her convinced that someone stole it.

EXCLUSIVE: ‘It’s disgusting they’ve tried to brush my son’s murder under the carpet’

The senior care worker said Brett’s friends found him ‘covered in blood’ and that police told them it had been a ‘violent death’ and that he may have been ‘hit with an axe’.

Sandra claims she was not even informed of a 4x5cm gash to his head, which she only discovered upon seeing his body at the crematorium.

CCTV footage from the neighbours reportedly showed three men fleeing from the scene around the same time.

Two-thirds flood victims in Valencia

NEARLY 70% of all flood death victims in Europe last year were in Valencia. Some 232 out of 335 deaths were in the Valencia area.

Malaga

Fatalities also occurred in Albacete, Cuenca and Malaga, while infrastructure damage and economic losses were severe, totalling around €16.5 billion.

A BULLRUNNER was seriously injured after he was badly gored by a bull in Vejer de la Frontera.

The man was flipped in the air and thrown against a wall by the bull Orensano, who weighed 490kg. He was carried by bystanders to a nearby helicopter that rushed to hospital. Meanwhile, three other runners were gored during the Easter Sunday bull run.

Barriers

A woman was also seriously injured after a 570kg bull, called Vaporoso, broke through safety barriers during the Toros del Aleluya celebration in nearby Arcos.

The woman was gored in the thigh and suffered a severed artery.

Two others were also hurt in the chaos, suffering fractures as panicked crowds fled.

Children and elderly spectators were dangerously close to the scene.

The mayor insisted all fencing had been inspected, calling the incident ‘unpredictable’.

EXPERTS WHO CARE ABOUT YOU

TRAGIC: Dad Brett was likely murdered

Voted top expat 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

Getting off lightly

HOLIDAYS in paradise, celebrity friends and, of course, philanthropy.

Jody Smart was to some sections of costa society a wonderful woman, a heroine to be worshipped.

But the truth is she is a dirty, rotten scammer who should be remembered for the countless victims of the CWM investment scandal, not her charity work.

She only managed to lead her sickening life of luxury - including first class travel to New York and holidays in Thailand - off the back of defrauding thousands from unfortunate investors. We have been tracing her disgraceful part in the fraud for nearly a decade and know the courts have only just scratched the surface.

Thousands of people lost their retirement savings due to Jody and her band of unscrupulous conmen.

Thankfully there are a few brave campaigners out there vowing to ensure she gets a lot more than three and a half years in prison she deserves.

Dead and buried?

IT is as if they are all six feet under.

For not one former employee or family member is prepared to come clean about what has happened to Iberian Funeral Plans.

Surely it wouldn’t be too much to put a small notice on the website? Some explanation to what has happened since owner Stephen Nelson died.

Our hearts go out to the many clients, who have been calling and emailing us about their concerns this month. Most of them only learned about the collapse of the company through our reporting and they have nowhere else to turn. How horrible for them to discover there is no more funeral plan for when they or their loved one dies.

We have been trying continually for two weeks to reach friends, family and former employees of Nelson, both here, as well as in Portugal and the UK.

It has been a painstakingly slow process, with nobody prepared to talk, but we are starting to get somewhere.

Thankfully our investigative team at the Olive Press is very good at one thing: digging!

And we vow to keep unearthing as much as we can about what has happened, until it finally kills us.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR

Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es Walter Finch walter@theolivepress.es

Yzabelle Bostyn yzabelle@theolivepress.es

Samantha Mythen samantha@theolivepress.es

Tom Ewart Smith tom@theolivepress.es

ADMIN Victoria Humenyuk Makarova (+34) 951 154 841 admin@theolivepress.es

Alex Trelinski alex@theolivepress.es

Joshua Parfitt josh@theolivepress.es

Dylan Wagemans dylan@theolivepress.es

OFFICE MANAGER

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

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

HEAVEN CAN WAIT!

WHEN the small group of mourners gathered in Faro on March 5, it was appropriately one of the worst spells of weather on record.

A bleak day on the Algarve, they had come to mourn the passing of a once jolly, larger-than-life expat, Stephen Nelson, who had run one of the costas’ best-known foreign businesses.

While only four people made the low-key service, the real tragedy was soon to become apparent: Nelson’s company, Iberian Funeral Plans, was collapsing with potentially thousands of victims facing investment losses of at least €4,000 each.

As a lawsuit is launched to help them get their money back, questions of where the estimated millions have gone are seemingly buried with Nelson.

It is a mighty fall for a company that at its peak had nine offices around the Iberian Peninsula and dozens of employees.

Initially launched as SPN Funeral Plans SL in 2006, it advertised on radio stations and almost every expat publication in Spain.

Selling funeral plans that wouldn’t leave loved ones with costly burial services, thousands took up the offer, often paying monthly or annually.

But what they couldn’t know was that the company had never been officially regulated and their funds were in no way protected from mismanagement, or worse.

The Olive Press investigates the vicious family battle brewing behind the mysterious painful collapse of Iberian Funeral Plans

By Jon Clarke

As the Olive Press has now established in a hard-hitting investigation spanning three countries, the firm and its subsidiaries had been in free fall for years.

What is also now certain, since Nelson died in February, funerals around Spain and in the UK have stopped getting paid, causing untold anguish at a time of major grief.

Despite the website still working, selling the ‘Oak plan’ for €7,250 and additional ‘mortuary days’ at €185, nobody has confirmed the collapse of Iberian or what is going on.

As Myra Azzopardi, at Spain’s Citizens Advice Bureau, explained this week, this is ‘extremely unusual’ and completely ‘heartless’.

A lawyer, Carlos Haering, who we reveal on our front page is launching a legal claim, added: “It's clear the company doesn't intend to provide any services or reimburse the money taken.”

Downfall

It appears the downturn for Iberian began when Nelson moved from Alhaurin el Grande, in Malaga, to the Algarve just under a decade ago.

Facing various legal issues with rival funeral companies, he decided it would be easier to base himself there, while leaving a team to run the main office in Alhaurin. Unfortunately though, his

MULLINS IT OVER

IT’S my first Easter as a proper member of the expat community. Sure I’ve been here over the bank holiday before, but now I’ve decided to become a permanent fixture here, I'm seeing things a bit differently… and some of what I see ain’t all milk and honey!

It might sound a bit boring but what’s been going on with the damn weather?

Until I saw the forecast for this week moving forwards I was beginning to think I was some kind of rain magnet.

But there’s a serious point in here somewhere and it’s right up my alley: Just because it’s sunny a lot of the time doesn’t mean builders get a pass

health took a turn for the worse and a serious battle with chronic diabetes left him without a leg and with other side effects.

The Olive Press has established that he died in Lagos after being admitted to hospital from his home in the village of Altura, in February.

Living alone, since his partner Karen Krejzl left him to return to Spain, he rarely socialised and only saw his daughter Emma on occasional visits from the UK.

Emma and her husband made up half the mourners at his funeral last month and, so far, she has refused to open up about his death.

“He died a sad and lonely man,” an expat friend, based on the Algarve, told the Olive Press this week. “And he certainly didn’t live a ‘jet set' or affluent lifestyle.

“Every morning he would have two coffees and a cheese and ham sandwich at his local cafe. That was it.”

But Nelson certainly wasn’t living on the bread line, as we have established.

He had a small boat, appropriately named Heaven Can Wait, plus a five-bedroom home currently for sale at just under one million euros.

The amazing villa with a giant swimming pool, gym and two jacuzzis, sat atop its own hill overlooking the sea.

“But just because he had this big house doesn’t mean he had a lot of money,” continued the friend, who had known him for years.

“He had taken a backseat from the business for a long time because he was ill and Iberian certainly wasn’t just him,” he added pointedly.

So who is in charge?

While there is, as yet, no cast iron proof of wrongdoing or even an intent to mislead, Iberian’s agents have been jumping ship for some years and all the offices began to shut

Ain’t all milk and honey!

Rather than complaining about tourists, locals should rise up about building standard on putting up houses to the most basic of standards.

After just two months of wet weather, 90% of the homes in southern Spain are leaking like a sieve.

It would be nice if someone could come up with (and enforce) some proper building regulations.

Protests

Not too much that goes on in and around Malaga gets into the international press but that wasn’t true for the anti-tourism protests we’ve had recently.

Obviously it all kicked off in places like Barcelona and the Canaries, and I get that people need somewhere affordable to live.

But is that really true for here? Or are they just jumping on a popular bandwagon?

I’m told this coast used to be known as the ‘ Costa del Viento ’ or the windy coast and before tourists began to come, build homes and resorts, all that was around was a few fishing villages.

So if people of all nationalities got over their silly differences and protested about shoddy workmanship instead of each other, we might get somewhere.

Being a plumber is both my enemy and my friend, but the simple fact is local builders need to up their game

one by one until the service was run solely online.

Iberian’s main office in Alhaurin closed just a year ago, we have established, and is now rented out to a real estate company.

One agent, Roger Brierley, who claims he left Iberian’s Costa Blanca office in 2022, told the Olive Press the company was ‘running fine’ back then.

He insisted he was shocked at its recent closure and he had been attempting to contact ‘others involved’ over recent weeks, with ‘no luck’. He refused to hand over any names or numbers.

As the Olive Press understands it, the company is now in the hands of Nelson’s children and, possibly, his ex-partner Karen Krejzl, while a long-time employee, Jose Luis Rios, was working for Iberian, in Malaga, as recently as February. Nelson’s sister, Fiona Webb - who was involved with the UK arm of the business registered under the name IFP - Iberian Ltd, until 2024 - has not responded to us. Webb, based in Stockport, was appointed company director from May 2012 until her resignation in 2023 and the business was

dissolved voluntarily last year.

On paper, English expat Krejzl, whose parents live in Manilva, was the director of the Spanish subsidiary, Iberian Servicios Funerarios SL, from 2016 to 2023.

While she officially resigned as administrator in September 2023, she is said to have been running the Alhaurin-based company from the sidelines, in particular looking after the Spanish-based clients, while Nelson looked after the Portuguese ones.

I was one of the many not paid ... I have nothing further to add

While we were unable to locate Krejzl during a visit to the former headquarters in Alhaurin, we did talk to her son Thomas, who lives nearby.

While admitting he had been an employee ‘a long time ago’

(we have correspondence of Thomas representing Iberian in May 2023) he insisted Nelson was the ‘boss’ and he was still owed money.

“I was one of the many not paid,” he said, but then began to clam up. “I’ve got nothing further to add.” When asked if his mother Karen would talk to us he insisted she had ‘nothing to say’.

More telling is a series of recent messages, seen by the Olive Press, purportedly sent from Nelson’s daughter Emma to Krejzl over the last couple of weeks.

DRAGTASTIC: Charlie out on the streets of Fuengirola this Easter

and get some of the basics right. Quite simply, homes need to be watertight and fit for human habitation!!

And on that note while I’m not currently running for Archbishop of Canterbury, I do have an Easter message and it’s for all the insurance companies out there processing victims’ claims.

Think of your fellow man, be charitable, and if that’s not in the underwriters holy handbook, have the grace not to hide behind too many ridiculous loopholes. Yes, play the Good Samaritan and leave some bread for those who have been less fortunate during these recent great floods.

As the true extent of the collapse began to become known, she accused Krejzl of being ‘fully accountable for its (Iberian’s) actions’ and threatened legal moves.

In the WhatsApp messages addressed to Krejzl and seen by this paper, she wrote: “You were involved in that company as was your son, Thomas. I was never part of it and have no knowledge of its operations beyond the fact that it deals with funerals.

“You, Thomas and Jose Luis continued to run the company for years after my father stepped back due to ill health.

“You are all accountable for its actions, and your names will be provided to my lawyer… and I am deeply

upset ... that it’s come to this.

SOCIAL SPIKE

The Olive Press gets crafty: a new approach to our social media platforms sees 375% growth

THE Olive Press social media platforms have spiked by 176% this year.

The combined outlets of Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube have never been performing so well.

Facebook alone reached a whopping 4.7 million views over the last month…an increase of 204%, while since January (right) it has risen by 375%.

Visitors to the Meta platform watched a staggering total of 61 days of our content.

Engagement shows that one-minute views have gone up by 379%.

Meanwhile, Instagram has seen another huge rise, particularly among women, who are 61% of our visitors.

We have had 147,000 views on the platform over the last fortnight, with an incredible 5.9% of visitors coming from Marbella, 3.4% from London and 2.8% from Madrid.

“I am not being left in the shit when I wasn’t even involved!”

We were unable to contact Jose Luis Rios as we went to press.

GOING UNDER

THINGS were clearly not well for Iberian with the authorities in the UK dissolving a sister company IFP - Iberian Ltd, in January last year.

The writing was on the wall when the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) started to regulate pre-paid funeral plans in 2022.

Iberian did not apply for authorisation, meaning the Financial Services Compensation Scheme could not protect its clients if it went bankrupt.

The FCA went on to advise people not to buy a plan from the firm if they wanted their funeral in the UK.

In Spain, the industry has never been regulated and it is unclear of the status of Iberian’s two linked companies here.

Iberian Funeral Plans SL is still listed as trading here, having set up in 2011, to take over from the sister company SPN Funeral Plans. Nelson is listed as the owner and administrator.

A separate company Iberian Servicios Funerarios SL was set up in 2016 with a start-up capital of €12,000.

Karen Krejzl was the main administrator until she resigned in 2023, when Nelson was handed the role.

However, Nelson’s status was changed again to become the ‘sole owner’ in August last year.

Why he did this and what exactly this means is unclear.

An impressive 85% of views this year have come from regular followers, while we have reached 130% more new accounts.

This all comes hand in hand with the staggering growth of our website last year, which reached nine million unique visitors and a 924% rise in a year.

But, it is on social media that we have focused this spring, after adding the talented social media guru, Alicia Kirk (left), to our team. The university graduate, 25, has done a fabulous job promoting our brand and reaching out to new readers.

Thanks to her work, you can now enjoy a steady flow of engaging content across Facebook, InsYouTube

Lucky winners!

THE Olive Press has been flooded with entries for the Tom Jones competition.

Over 350 of you got in touch to grab the two pairs of free tickets to his Alicante concert on August 13.

And after spinning the wheel the two lucky winners are: Angela Taylor and David Mitchell - congratulations!

Angela and David will have an unforgettable night along with their fortunate guests, as The Welsh Tiger hypnotises the crowd with his soothing voice.

Today (Wednesday) we will be choosing the lucky winners of the David Walliams competition as the funnyman flies in for a rare appearance in Gi braltar this Thursday.

Get in touch today at sales@theolivepress.es or call us at 00 34 951154841 for more info

QUESTIONS: For Karen Krejzl from Nelson’s daughter Emma (below)

GET READY FOR SUMMER!

Preparing for the high temperatures to come: tips for expats from Energy Nordic

IT won’t be long before the thermometer starts to rise and the days get longer.

As the sun shines brighter the expat community should get ready for another beautiful summer.

At Energy Nordic, we’re not just your local energy provider - we’re also your neighbour. We know what it takes to enjoy the season while staying cool, comfortable, and energy-smart.

But it is best to take action now, rather than wait for the high temperatures to hit and then find yourself at the back of the queue when it comes to essential maintenance for your cooling systems.

Now is the time to clean or replace air conditioning filters, check insulation, and make sure your system is running efficiently to avoid any unwelcome surprises when the heat arrives.

For those spending time away on holiday, consider installing a smart thermostat to manage your energy usage remotely.

We also recommend simple changes like closing blinds during peak sun hours, using fans in place of AC when possible, and running appliances like washing machines during off-peak times - not just good for the planet, but for your bill too.

At Energy Nordic, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing, friendly service, and tailored energy solutions that suit expat lifestyles. Whether you're new to the area or have called the Costa del Sol home for years, we’re here to help you make the most of summer without the stress.

As always, our team is just a phone call or click awayready to answer questions, offer advice, or help you switch to a better energy plan.

Here's to a safe, sunny, and energy-efficient summer!

For more information visit energynordic.com, call 900 696 820 or email info@ energynordic.com

THERE is a dynamic new way to get the freshest ‘100% organic’ food and veg delivered di rect to your door on the Costa del Sol. In an era when eating healthily and sustainably are more important than ever, Organic ToGo is understandably making waves. Based in Marbella, Dane Carsten Dreyer Christensen and his Finnish wife Mairena

Healthy and sustainable

saw the perfect opportunity to combine their passion for healthy food with the region’s abundance of fresh local produce. Having run a similar business in Copenhagen, the couple knew what works. “Here in Andalucía we’ve got even better access to amazing produce – it just needed connecting to customers,” says Carsten.

Nearly all products (98%) are sourced from local farms, with reg-

ular testing to ensure no pesticides or harmful chemicals. “It’s all about transparency and trust,” adds Carsten, a data analyst by trade.

Deliveries are direct to your door and focus on seasonal, sustainable eating. “Our aim is simple – make organic living easy, convenient and good for the planet,” he says. So if you want fresh, chemical-free produce without the hassle, Organic ToGo might just be the healthiest delivery decision you’ll make. Visit www.organictogo.es for more details.

Hidden crown

King’s giant private park set to open

to the public – If political party gets its way

MADRID’S best-kept secret could soon be open to the public in a move that could ruffle a few feathers at the royal palace.

El Pardo, the sprawling 15,000-hectare forest just 12 kilometres from the city centre, has been locked away behind a 66 km fence, with only the royal family allowed to roam its pristine grounds for centuries.

But now, political party Mas Madrid wants a change, asking for El Pardo to be declared a National Park and

By Dilip Kuner

‘opened up to the people’ of Madrid. The proposal, set to be debated later this month, argues that this verdant treasure is ‘too good to be kept for royalty alone’. Currently, just 900 hectares of El Pardo are accessible to the public, with the rest reserved exclusively for the royal family.

Mas Madrid argues it should be like the other iconic green

OP QUICK CROSSWORD

areas like the Retiro and Casa de Campo, which were once off-limits to the public.

Across

7 “--- Don’t Preach” (Madonna hit) (4)

8 Egg dish which might be Spanish (8)

9 Gin cocktails (8)

10 Short room heater? (3)

11 Gadabouts (5)

12 Exalted Padre is out (7)

14 Established judicial ruling (4,3)

16 See 3 Down (5)

18 Drop a clanger (3)

19 Prosecutor (8)

20 Publicly condemn (8)

21 Bomb fin (4)

Down

1 Distrust, and then some (8)

2 Where parents go when they retire (6,7)

3 --- Mubarak, former President of 16 Across (5)

4 Hot water source, or spring (6)

5 Graphical representation of progress (8,5)

6 “Shell shock”, formerly (1,1,1,1)

12 Internee during period of conflict (1,1,1)

13 Advocate organizes next Open (8)

15 Quakers in the forest (6)

17 Judas, Juniper and Joshua (5)

18 Inspects (4)

“Why should the royal family have it all to themselves?” insisted a spokesman for the party. “It’s time to open the gates and let everyone enjoy this incredible place.”

The proposal includes a plan for sustainable visits, ensuring the forest’s ecosystem stays protected while giving people the chance to explore.

The area could also be added to the Biosphere Reserve of the Upper Manzanares River, offering even more protection.

DESERT BOUND

A SHOCKING new study reveals that Spain will no longer have its iconic Mediterranean climate in 25 years. Instead, much of the country will fall under the harsh classification of ‘steppe’ and even ‘desert’ climate as rainfall dries up by 2050.

The research, conducted by the University of Catalunya, paints a grim picture of what’s in store. As the Mediterranean continues to heat up, it’s clear Spain’s climate will be unrecognisable in just a few decades.

Transformation

According to the study, rainfall is expected to plummet by between 14% and 20% compared to current levels.

The Mediterranean climate will go from covering 24% of Spain to just 10% by 2060.

Meanwhile, desert-like conditions will increase dramatically, expanding from a tiny 1% of the country to a whopping 10% by 2050. The coast and the Ebro Valley will bear the brunt of this transformation.

GREEN LUNG: 15,000 hectare El Pardo park is just 12kms from central Madrid

DECO DOZEN

Coal to culture

A forgotten Spanish power plant gets an epic makeover,

writes Dilip Kuner

IT was a clever way to utilise a waste product from a local industry in Andalucia.

A team from Spanish and British universities have worked out a way to create eco-friendly building materials from sugarcane. The group from the University of East London (UEL) and the Bagaceira Project, in Barcelona, worked out how to repurpose

As the Art Deco movement reaches a century, we celebrate Spain’s contribution

ONCE a towering titan of industry, the iconic Tres Xemeneies power plant is set to become the beating heart of Barcelona’s cultural future.

The 1970s relic, named after its three colossal chimneys (that’s Tres Xemeneies in Catalan), has been gathering dust since it shut down in 2011.

But not for much longer. Architecture dream team Garces de Seta Bonet Arquitectes and Marvel have just released dazzling visuals of their wild new vision: E la nave va - a name borrowed from a classic Fellini flick.

Out goes coal and in comes creativity. This bold transformation will morph the hulking plant into the ‘Catalunya Media City’, a buzzing hub for media, tech, and public arts. The mammoth turbine hall will be reborn - with vibes straight out of London’s Tate Modern and NYC’s Park Avenue Armory.

We’re talking 17-metre ceilings, epic sound studios, labs, and enough flexible free space to host everything from film fests to virtual reality showcases.

And the origins of the station have not been forgotten, with it still producing power - 4,500m² of solar panels are to crown the roof, and its smart eco-friendly design will help shrink its carbon footprint.

“This is about turning an industrial past into a cultural future,” said architect Jonathan Marvel. And with views over the Med and Badalona, it’s looking like the power plant's second act will be nothing short of electric.

SWEET DEAL

Andalucia has become the centre of a groundbreakingsustainablebuildingproject usingsugarcaneinsteadof concrete

By Tom Ewart Smith

‘bagasse’, the fibrous pulp left after extracting sugarcane juice. Their research found that products made from this waste outperformed traditional concrete and clay bricks. Bagasse is typically burned for fuel or used as cattle feed, both of

which release carbon into the atmosphere.

In contrast, their project traps carbon in the new building materials, reducing environmental impact. Made by combining bagasse with sand, the bricks have a carbon footprint six times lower than conventional clay bricks. The project launched in 2022 when UEL researchers Alan Chandler

and Armor Gutierrez (far left) began exploring agricultural waste as a potential construction material.

The project is now exploring industrial-scale Sugarcrete production, which could utilise up to 8 million square metres of sugarcane plantations in southern Spain. Estimates claim it will capture carbon emissions equivalent to 46,000 cars. If given the go ahead the team will turn a number of former concrete factories into bio-based production hubs, boosting the local economy.

Further research is planned in Granada this summer, while they have already used the product to build a school in India as well as a prototype at the Burning Man festival in the US.

CARBON TRAPS: The Sugarcrete bricks used at Burning Man Festival

29thDecember 12th 2023

FOREIGN INVASION

THE latest figures from Spain’s notaries reveal shifting patterns in foreign demand for Spanish property, with British buyers holding firm in the southern sunshine while Americans spread their wings across the north in the second half of last year. The notaries split foreign demand into two segments: non-residents, typically buying second homes (often with one eye on retirement), and foreign residents already living in Spain. For each region and segment, the report highlights the top two nationalities and their market shares, providing just enough in -

British buyers cling on in the south of Spain while Americans fan out across the north

formation to map dominant trends - though not enough to paint the full picture. If your nationality doesn’t make the podium, your numbers remain a mystery. They provide a map for each segment showing the top two nationalities and their market share in that segment. In total, 139,102 home sales in 2024 involved foreign buyersup 5% on the previous year and the second-highest number on re -

cord. Of these, 42% were non-residents and 58% foreign residents. Cross-referencing notary and government figures gives us hard numbers in a few key cases: in Andalusia, for example, non-resident foreign buyers purchased 13,457 homes, of which the British accounted for 2,422. But this kind of precision is only possible where the British (or any nationality) rank in the top two, leaving gaps in our

WHERE THEY BUY: This map shows the areas that attract the most foreign buyers

understanding elsewhere.

Despite a 4% decline in overall British demand last year, they still managed to cling on to key regions. They retained the number one spot among non-residents in both Andalucia and Murcia, and secured second place in the Canaries and the Balearics - thou -

gh behind the dominant Germans. In the Valencian region, home of the once British-dominated Costa Blanca, the Dutch and Belgians now stand on the podium instead. Meanwhile, American buyers made big gains in the non-resident segment, up 15% year-on-year. They claimed the top spot in five regions and second place in two more, giving them a total of seven podium finishes - mainly in northern Spain and Madrid. That puts them on par with the French, a remarkable development considering Americans barely registered a few years ago. Their growing presence suggests an appetite for culture, landscape, and relative affordability in parts of Spain that have long flown under the radar of mass tourism.

“

Andalucia, Murcia, and the Balearics.

“ Their growing presence suggests an appetite for culture, landscape, and relative affordability

In the resident segment, Moroccans and Romanians dominate, drawn by more affordable housing markets. However, British residents still maintain a notable presence, making the podium in

Looking ahead to 2025, the expat segment is likely to continue along similar lines, with Moroccans and Romanians leading, and the British just about holding their ground in the south. The non-resident market, however, faces potential turbulence. As housing affordability becomes a political flashpoint, especially in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, non-resident buyers from outside the EU risk being cast as convenient scapegoats, despite playing little role in the underlying problems. This could dampen British and American enthusiasm. Then again, if Donald Trump continues to “Make America Great Again”, we might see another kind of surgeAmericans voting with their feet and buying homes in Spain with a long-term exit strategy in mind. One way or another, it’s shaping up to be a fascinating year in the Spanish property market.

November 29thDecember 12th 2023 LOOKING FOR MORE PROPERTY STORIES?

BAG A BARGAIN

THE province of Huelva is hosting a series of unusual online house auctions until the middle of May with homes starting at an unbelievable €7,000.

A great way to get onto the property ladder, the regional authorities are ‘selling off’ a range of homes and anyone can buy.

The whole auction process is being conducted 100% online and any ‘snag’ (for example, a live-in tenant) has to be declared.

The lowest-priced property is an urban home in Trigueros, while the second

most affordable is a rural property in Hinojos, appraised at €7,515. Another home is available in the stunning hillside village of Almonaster la Real for €79,444, while a property in Punta Umbria (right) costs just €66,353. All homes can be accessed through the official Social Security auction portal, where the details of each

property are listed. Any individual or legal entity may bid by following the steps described on the platform.

COSTA LOTTA

By Walter Finch

RENTING in Spain’s most sought-after holiday locations has never been more costly, with Sotogrande, Marbella, and Estepona among the priciest in the country. According to a new report, 30 locations have average monthly rent exceeding €1500, while some have

GoldenTriangletownsof Malagaare

amongSpain’spriciestplacestorent–but themostexpensivesuburbof Madridtops outatover€4,000amonthonaverage

areas command eye-watering prices of over €4,000. The Costa del Sol continues to dominate the luxury rental market, with Marbella leading the way at

Hotels for sale

IF YOU'VE ever fancied owning a hotel in Spain, there are plenty of options with the Idealista property portal.

There are almost 1,400 hotels available via the portal after a sharp increase in hotels being put up for sale in the wake of

an average of €3,018 per month, according to the latest data from idealista.

Neighbouring Benahavís, known for its exclusive villas, isn’t far be-

the Covid-19 pandemic.

Unsurprisingly, tourist areas like Alicante, the Balearic Islands, Granada, and Malaga have the highest numbers on the market.

The biggest rises in the last 12 months came in Almeria, Leon, and Murcia. Two areas recorded triple figures of availability, namely Alicante province with 126 hotels and the Balearics on 102.

hind at €3,815, while Sotogrande, the upscale resort in Cadiz, known for its golf courses, averages €2,815. Estepona, another Malaga gem, also makes the list with rents averaging €2,557

Is self-sufficiency the future of luxury housing?

AN increasing number of sustainable houses are being built in Spain due to a combination of strict regulations and high-energy prices. And it’s the luxury end where some of the most exciting homes are appearing.

Take Villa Noon, in Sotogrande (right). The trailblazing carbon neutral property is a true

By Dylan Wagemans

All connected, they each have solar panels and a geothermal system that provides heating and cooling, and high-capacity batteries ensuring energy is stored for continuous use.

An advanced water management system meanwhile harvests rainwater and extracts water from air humidity, while also recycling wastewater.

The cool price of €11,4 million reflects its desirability.

Another carbon neutral home nearby is Villa Garnacha (left), located in a gated community in Sotogrande.

The €5 million villa is designed with an emphasis on sustainability, natural light and architectural finesse.

Constructed with CLT, which stands for Cross-Laminated-Timber, this modern construction method uses engineered wood panels that are strong, fire-resistant and

per month.

These figures highlight the enduring appeal of the Costa del Sol among affluent renters, particularly international travellers and expats seeking sun, sea, and luxury amenities.

The Balearic Islands are another standout, with Santa Eulalia topping the list at €3,919 per month. Other expensive locations include Sant Josep (€3,566), Calvia (€2,828), and Eivissa (€2,584). These areas, popular with highnet-worth individuals and celebrities, offer a mix of stunning views, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive properties.

Topping the national ranking is La Moraleja, an affluent suburb on the outskirts of Madrid, where rents average a staggering €4,001 per month.

Auctions are scheduled up until May 20, allowing interested parties to prepare their documentation and submit their bids in time.

Williams has just bagged himself a swanky new pad in Marbella’s ul tra-exclusive Sierra Blanca.

The exciting striker is joining the A-list ranks of Novak Djokovic and Erling Haaland who also call the area home.

The 21-year-old Athletic Bilbao ace has forked out millions on a designer villa from the ‘Marbella by Fendi collection’.

It is one of just five in the plush de velopment masterminded by busi nessman Pedro Rodriguez. Williams can most certainly af ford it, with earnings from Ath letic a reported €10.4 million a year. Perched between Marbella and glitzy Puerto Banus, the jaw-drop ping estate sprawls across 9,000 sqm of prime real estate, tailor-made for those who love sun, lux ury, and a touch of bling.

sustainable.

The four-bedroom home has large windows offering great views of the coastline and the Rock of Gibraltar.

Finally in the La Quinta hills above San Pedro de Alcantara (below left), a luxurious €5 million eco-friendly villa has been designed by Tobal Architects.

The four-bed spacious open plan property has retractable glass doors that provide access to the terrace and infinity pool.

SPANISH football sensation Nico

CIRCLE OF LIFE: Carbon neutral masterpiece in Sotogrande

HILLSIDE GEM: Charming home beinhg auctioned in Almonaster

1. Casa Judia, Valencia (1930)

A bold burst of colour and geometry on Calle Castellon.

Known as the ‘Jewish House’, this private residence is a

2. Edificio Sagasta, Malaga (1903)

A graceful corner building with rounded balconies and ornate ironwork, Sagasta is a striking example of early pre-Deco blending with Modernist touches. Built by Jeronimo Cuervo, it set the tone for Malaga’s architectural leap into the 20th century. Still a landmark today, especially when bathed in that golden Costa del Sol light.

candy box of intricate detail, with star-shaped windows and bright mosaics. Designed by Juan Francisco Guardio -

la Martinez, it's one of Valencia's most photographed examples of pure Spanish Art Deco.

LOOKING FOR MORE PROPERTY STORIES?

November 29thDecember 12th 2023

Scan to visit our website

DECO

WHEN someone once asked Prime Minister Clement Attlee to define socialism, he replied that he couldn’t - but he knew it when he saw it.

Art Deco is much the same. Hard to pin down, easy to love.

Elon Musk is trying to reinvent it for the 21st century, but Deco has been turning heads for over a hundred years.

So what is it?

It’s a style, a spirit, a vibe - something that says how things should look.

Whether it’s a skyscraper or a cigarette case, Art Deco dictates that everything we make can, and should, be beautiful.

And oddly enough, the more troubled the times, the more elegance we seem to crave.

Emerging in the aftermath of World War One, the ‘arts decoratifs’ movement – from which Art Deco

4. Hospital de Maudes, Madrid (1916)

Originally a charity hospital, this luminous white building blends functionality with Gothic and Deco lines. Designed by Antonio Palacios – a Deco pioneer – it stands as one of Madrid’s most imaginative and humanist structures. Today, it's a cultural venue, its inner courtyards just as beautiful as the facades.

DOZEN

How Spain gave glamour a home in the hardest of times

By Dilip Kuner & Michael Coy

takes its name – was born during one of the bleakest decades in modern history.

Think Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing through the Great Depression. Nobody wanted films about hardship. They wanted ocean liners, tuxedos and big bands. Deco gave the world beauty with bold lines and big ideas. It’s sleek. It’s modern. It’s escapism. Today, Elon Musk calls his ‘robovan’ a new Deco icon. But back in the early 20th century, it was countries like Spain that gave the move -

3. Colisseu Balear, Palma de Mallorca (1928)

DOZEN

ment its original flair.

Despite staying neutral in both World Wars, Spain suffered its own traumas - economic collapse, political assassinations, and a brutal civil war.

As the old ways collapsed - monarchy, Church, and rural life - cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia boomed, and with them came a burst of architectural creativity.

Even in chaos, elegance found a home.

Spain became a canvas for modern materials and ambitious visions – a land where Deco’s bold lines could shine in the sunlight.

From concrete to chrome, from decorative staircases to sweeping facades, Spanish architects were building a future they could believe in.

Here are the Olive Press’s Top 12 Art Deco-style buildings in Spain, each one telling its own story of ambition, innovation, and sheer style.

5. Palau Guell, Barcelona (1888)

Gaudi before Gaudi got weird. This early gem leans into symmetry and clean lines more than his later works, with iron grilles and curving stone forms hinting at the Deco spirit to come. Commissioned by industrial tycoon Eusebi Guell, it’s a masterclass in restrained luxury with a Catalan twist.

Located just 35 minutes from the city of Málaga, this 13.5-hectare (134,780 m²) estate offers a unique environment for the development and well-being of horses, with first-class facilities. Perfect for horse breeding enthusiasts, this property boasts a series of structures designed to maximize the comfort of the animals and the functionality of the facilities.

6

3

This charming 447-square-meter historic home has been meticulously preserved, offering a setting full of history and character. It features 6 spacious bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and 1 guest toilet. The beautiful courtyard, brimming with flowers and plants, serves as a true oasis in the heart of the property. Additionally, it offers a generous attic and storage room. The two balconies in the main living areas provide stunning views, while the interior terrace adds a

November 29thDecember 12th 2023

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6. Casa Fuster, Barcelona (1908)

Now a five-star hotel, Casa Fuster is one of Passeig de Gracia’s crown jewels. Designed by Lluis Domenech i Montaner, it bridges Art Nouveau and Art Deco in dazzling fashion. Marble, glass and curvaceous windows make this building both a relic and a revelation.

7. Edificio Espana, Madrid (1948)

An imposing vertical statement at Plaza de Espana, this skyscraper (once the tallest in Spain) is a late-Deco titan. With its wedding-cake tiers and American-style ambition, it captures a nation emerging from civil war, looking up – quite literally – to a brighter future.

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

8. Fundacio La Caixa, Palma de Mallorca (1903)

Originally the Gran Hotel, this building is a riot of ornament and innovation. Designed by Modernist architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner, it reflects early Deco confidence with its ceramic tiles, sweeping staircases and expressive carvings. Today it hosts cultural events and exhibitions – a Deco temple with brains and beauty.

THE KEY TO CHOOSING ART

‘Direct contact with the buyer, and a deep understanding of their preferences and requirements, is the key to finding the perfect art piece’

TEORIA del Arte is a project promoted by Ana Melo, based on curating exhibitions, advising and selling works of art, and representing artists.

Melo’s experience has allowed Teoría del Arte to serve as a meeting point for artists, gallery owners, collectors, and buyers drawn to the world of painting, sculpture, fine art photography, and interior design.

A PERSONAL APPROACH IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS

Only by getting to know people—their tastes and needs—is it possible to achieve what the buyer or collector is truly looking for. We believe that direct contact

9. Casa Matesanz, Madrid (1923)

A stunner on Gran Via, Casa Matesanz is a textbook example of urban Deco. Clean vertical lines, wide windows, and decorative panels make it a standout in Madrid’s most famous street. Designed by Antonio Palacios (again), it's another sign of his vision for a new, elegant Spain.

with the buyer, and a deep understanding of their preferences and requirements, is the key

to finding the perfect piece. That’s why we encourage you to get in touch with us, with no obligation, to tell us what you’re looking for. Based on that knowledge, we will offer advice with objectivity and rigour. Decide for yourself what you want—painting, sculpture, photography, techniques, materials, themes—or let yourself be guided by our experience in selection. In either case, the result will reflect your taste and personality. You’ll be

amazed at what your space can say about you when the choice of artwork is just right.

If you are seeking a unique and exclusive piece for your collection, your home or office, or as a gift, we work with a wide selection of top artists and have contacts with galleries across Spain. We’re confident we can connect you with the artist who creates the piece you’re envisioning—or with the gallery that has exactly what you're looking for. Discover with us how a well-chosen piece of art can transform a house into a home, a workspace into a personalised office, or a simple gift into something truly unique and unforgettable. Please don’t hesitate to contact uswe’d be delighted to help you.

PERFECT EYE: Ana Melo has worked in the art world for decades

TASTES: Ana’s team

10. No. 4, Avenida Rosaleda, Malaga (1932)

A residential jewel with its curved balconies, geometric railings and playful use of space. This apartment building is tucked away on a back streets but rewards the curious eye. It shows that Deco wasn’t just for the elites – it was also for everyday elegance.

11. Teatro Rialto, Valencia (1939)

Once a cinema, this charmer on Plaza del Ayuntamiento was designed by the architect Cayetano Borso di Carminati and was taken over by the Valencian government who converted it into a theatre in the 1980s.

Classic Art Deco style, this residential four storey block by Enrique Rumeu de Armas was built in 1937. The symmetrical distribution of openings and trapezoidal floor plan were highly original and and is a great example of Rumeu's classicist rationalist style. 12. Edificio Hardisson,

ESTATE AGENTS

Costa Sunsets: A Team That Goes One Step Further

At Costa Sunsets, we are not just real estate agents. We are dream facilitators, guides through meaningful moments, and experts in turning the buying process into a unique, thoughtful, and stress-free experience.

Unlike many agents who simply show properties, we truly get involved in every story. We listen, we understand, and we act with one clear goal: to find not just a property that meets your expectations, but a place that feels like home from the very beginning.

From the first conversation to well beyond the handover of keys, we are right by your side. We explain every step, answer every question, and make the entire journey — from choosing the perfect area to handling legal paperwork — clear, smooth, and tailored to you.

We know every client is unique, which is why we offer a warm, fully personalised approach. We don’t rush, and we don’t make empty promises. We work with trust, commitment, and real results.

At Costa Sunsets, we are redefining what it means to be real estate agents on the Costa del Sol. We believe in lasting relationships, in genuine human value, and in doing things the right way — always.

Are you ready to experience a new way of buying property?

Discover the Costa del Sol with Costa Sunsets — and find more than just a house.

Better Ask Paul –The Lawyer You Can Trust

When it comes to legal matters, having the right expert by your side makes all the difference. And Paul León is that expert.

Thanks to his outstanding success and prestigious clientele from politics and business, the renowned American / Sevillian lawyer is now expanding his offices to the Costa del Sol. Having long assisted clients with real estate purchases, investment strategies, and full-scale relocations, he is now bringing his unparalleled expertise to even more international clients.

With fluent proficiency in four languages and top-tier connections in the U.S. Paul León is more than just a lawyer – he’s a strategic advisor who understands the complexities of international transactions and legal frameworks. Whether you’re investing in property, securing residency, or dealing with high-stakes legal matters, you are in the best hands with Paul León.

His deep understanding of both Spanish and international law, combined with his ability to navigate complex legal systems, makes him the go-to attorney for high-net-worth individuals, business leaders, and international investors.

So, don’t hesitate – if you need legal guidance, Better Ask Paul.

BETTER ASK PAUL – YOUR TRUSTED LEGAL PARTNER

Expert Legal Services in Marbella & Across Spain

Real Estate Law | Family Law | Immigration & Nationality

CALL NOW: +34 955 986 806 | +34 683 630 876

EMAIL: paul@leonlegal.com

VISIT: www.leonlegal.com

Trusted by high-net-worth individuals, investors, and professionals worldwide.

Exclusive Interview with Paul León: Navigating Legal Challenges with Expertise and Integrity

Paul León is the founder of León Legal, a distinguished law firm operating in Seville and Marbella, Spain. While he serves many international clients in Marbella, his expertise in real estate law has expanded, allowing him to advise clients throughout Spain. Specialising in family law, real estate law, and immigration and nationality matters, Paul offers tailored legal solutions with a deep understanding of his clients’ needs.

Q1: Paul, your approach to legal practice emphasizes understanding clients’ emotions and needs. How did your personal experiences shape this philosophy?

Paul León: My journey into law was profoundly influenced by my personal experiences. Having worked for years in the commercial Real Estate field in southern California, helped me understand the emotions involved in the process of finding the right property, conducting due diligence, and closing. Later on in life, working in elderly residence, I was in close contact with residents and their families, witnessing firsthand how the concept of family has evolved, presenting new situations and challenges. These two experiences allowed me to gain in-depth knowledge of the legislation affecting families, as well as the challenge they face when the make important decisions and underscored the importance of empathy in legal practice. (leonlegal.com)

Q2: León Legal specializes in family law, real estate law, and immigration and nationality matters. Could you elaborate on the services you provide in these areas?

Paul León: Certainly. In family law, we advise on separations and divorces, inheritances and donations, and the protection of people with disabilities. Our real estate law services include assisting clients with purchase and sale transactions, property disputes, evictions, and conflicts in neighborhood communities. In the realm of immigration and nationality, we manage nationality files, facilitate golden visas, and handle other related aspects. (leonlegal.com)

Q3: Your firm boasts a 100% success rate in immigration cases, including golden visas. What strategies contribute to this impressive record?

Paul León: Our success stems from meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of immigration law. We have extensive experience in processing nationality files and have even secured favorable rulings from the Superior Court of Justice against resolutions of Spanish diplomatic missions. Our comprehensive approach ensures that we address every detail, providing our clients with the best possible outcomes. (leonlegal.com)

Q4: You work with many international clients, especially in Marbella. How do you assist them with real estate transactions?

Paul León: Yes, many of our international clients are based in Marbella, and we offer specialized legal assistance to help them navigate Spain’s real estate market. We ensure that every transaction is legally sound, from contract review and due diligence to compliance with local and national regulations. Additionally, my real estate practice has grown significantly, and I now advise clients throughout Spain on property transactions, whether they are buying a home, investing in commercial real estate, or handling disputes. (leonlegal.com)

Q5: Communication is vital in legal matters. How does your firm ensure continuous and transparent communication with clients throughout their cases?

Paul León: At León Legal, we prioritize continuous communication with our clients. From the initial consultation to the resolution of their cases, we maintain regular contact, ensuring they are informed and comfortable with each step. We understand the frustration clients feel when their lawyer becomes unresponsive, so we make it a point to be available, answer calls, and resolve doubts promptly. (leonlegal.com)

Q6: What makes León Legal different from other law firms?

Paul León: Clients should seek a lawyer who understands the law, is available, listens, communicates clearly, makes them feel comfortable, fights their battles, and earns their trust. At León Legal, we embody these qualities by focusing on understanding our clients’ emotions, providing transparent and clear communication, and dedicating ourselves to achieving the best possible outcomes for them.

(leonlegal.com)

Saint Gaudi

ICONIC architect Anto-

ni Gaudi - the man behind Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia cathedral - has moved a step closer to sainthood after the late Pope Francis officially recognised his ‘heroic virtue’. Known as ‘God’s architect’ for his deeply spiritual vision, his work fused faith, nature and groundbreaking design. The Pope’s declaration was a

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%.

What this meant was tens of thou-

Architectonestepcloserto sainthoodafterlatePope recognisedhis‘heroicvirtue’

By Dilip Kuner

key milestone in the Catholic Church’s path to sainthood. While recovering from recent illness, Pope Fran-

cis signed off on several causes - including Gaudi’s. Despite being a layman, Gaudi was bur-

ied in the crypt of the Sagrada Família, the basilica he designed and devoted his life to.

The sainthood process involves four stages: Servant of God, Venerable, Blessed, and finally Saint.

Gaudi has already com -

pleted the first two. To progress to beatification, the Vatican must confirm a miracle attributed to his intercession - one possible case involves a woman from Reus who claims to have regained her sight through prayer to Gaudi. Born in 1852 and tragically killed in 1926, Gaudi was known for his faith as much as for his architectural genius.

The Sagrada Família, under construction since 1882, is set for completion in 2026, marking 100 years since his death.

Supporters of his sainthood say Gaudi was ‘a man of profound faith and a universal figure in modern architecture’.

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 to +606

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.

CHAOS CONTINUES

SPAIN’S housing crisis has entered a new phase of uncertainty and tension as sweeping reforms to tourist rental laws took effect on April 3, 2025. The changes, driven by the new Organic Law 1/2025, significantly tighten regulation of short-term rentals, aiming to balance the interests of residents, property owners, and the booming tourism sector. New Rules for Tourist Rentals

Under the new law, any property owner wishing to offer their home as a tourist rental must now obtain explicit approval from their building’s homeowners’ association (Comunidad de Propietarios). This approval requires a three-fifths majority vote of both owners and ownership quotas at a duly constituted meeting.

If the majority is not reached, the community can demand the immediate cessation of the activity and may even pursue legal action.

The law does not apply retroactively: properties already operating as tourist rentals before April 3, 2025, can continue under the previous framework, provided they were legally licensed. However, all new tourist lets - including those purchased from previous owners - must comply with the stricter rules.

National registry and fines

In addition to community approval, all tourist rentals must be registered with Spain’s new national registry

Housing problems not solved as tourist rental law comes into force

(Registro Único) by July 1, 2025. Owners must provide detailed property information and obtain a unique license number, which must be displayed on all listings, including platforms like Airbnb. Failure to comply can result in fines up to €600,000, de pending on the region.

Homeowners’ associations gain power

Communities now have the author

ity to:

Approve, limit, or prohibit tourist rentals within their buildings

Impose up to 20% higher community fees on properties used for tourist rentals, without needing to prove increased service usage

Enforce these rules through legal channels if necessary

This shift has sparked concern among property owners, who fear the potential for abuse or arbitrary fee hikes, especially in buildings where consensus is hard to reach.

Market Impact and Housing Shortage

The reforms come amid mounting public anger over housing costs and the impact of mass tourism. Spain welcomed nearly 100 million

by high land and construction costs, slow planning processes, and strong demand.

Social unrest and political pressure

foreign visitors in 2024, with demand for tourist accommodation rising three times faster than for hotels. This surge has fueled speculation, driven up rents and home prices, and reduced the supply of long-term housing for locals.

In response, cities like Barcelona have announced plans to phase out tourist rental licenses by 2028, while other regions are introducing quotas, bans, and new taxes on foreign buyers. Despite these measures, the housing deficit remains acute: experts warn Spain faces a shortfall of up to 2.7 million homes in the coming decades, driven

The new law was introduced after more than a year of mass protests across Spain. On April 5, just two days after the law took effect, hundreds of thousands marched in over 40 cities demanding affordable housing and greater regulation of tourist rentals. Protesters blame both landlords and government inaction for soaring rents and evictions, with slogans like “Get Airbnb out of our neighborhoods” echoing nationwide.

Spain’s government, under intense pressure, has promised further action - including new public housing, rent caps, and even a proposed 100% tax on property bought by

The Property Insider

by Adam Neale

non-EU residents. However, critics argue that targeting tourist rentals alone will not resolve the underlying housing shortage, which is rooted in years of underbuilding and complex political wrangling.

Outlook

As the summer tourist season approaches, confusion and anxiety persist among property owners, residents, and investors. While the new law aims to restore balance between tourism and local needs, its effectiveness will depend on enforcement, community cooperation, and broader efforts to boost housing supply. For now, Spain’s housing chaos shows no sign of abating, with the battle over tourist rentals at its heart.

VILLA, MONTE BIARRITZ, ESTEPONA

Elegant villa, recently gone through a total renovation.

5 Beds | 4 Baths | 365m2 Built | 1250m2 plot | 72m2 terrace

REF: 176-02809P | 2.795.000€

As you enter you are greeted by an abundance of light and space where the chosen materials blend perfectly. The generously sized ground floor of the villa has an open plan distribution with both formal and informal dining area, an office and a bedroom suite. The large terrace doors take you to the covered terrace, to the bbq area and out to the garden and heated pool. On the second floor you have the beautiful master suite, a relax area and 2 bedrooms sharing a bathroom.The basement area has been fitted with a home cinema, big laundry area, a family bathroom and the 5th bedroom, there is also direct access to the garage from here. Situated in a well established residential area between Puerto Banus and Estepona only a short drive to Marbella & the Golden Mile with amenities nearby and the beach is only a short distance away. A true gem of a property with a total of 455m2 constructed area.

ALOHA GARDENS, NUEVA ANDALUCIA

Newly fully refurbished duplex penthouse.

4 Beds | 3 Baths | 227m2 Built | 60m2 terrace

REF: 176-02831P | 1.295.000€

As you enter you are greeted by the light and the soft colour scheme creating a feeling warmth and luxury. The open plan kitchen, living and dining room opens up to double doors onto the lower terrace which is perfect for that morning coffee. On this floor you also have the 4th bedroom and the combined bathroom and guest toilet. On the 2nd floor you have the large mastersuite with plenty of wardrobe space, large bathroom and a beautiful bay window looking towards Marbella and the sea.

LOS JARALES, ALOHA, NUEVA ANDALUCIA

Large townhouse with sea & golf views.

3 Beds | 3 Baths | 100m2 Built | 165m2 terrace | 653m2 build

REF: 176-02826P | 895.000€

We present this special & classic property in the well known development of Los Jarales. Nestled in the heart of Aloha with views towards the Aloha golf course and across the valley. The spacious entrance takes you to the property through the large patio where you can enjoy the morning sun and its a perfect place for the warm summer evenings.

MODERN VILLA, LA CERQUILLA Ref: OP15324 Built: 573 m² Plot: 842 m² | Terraces: 63 m²

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

High-speed vision

A BOLD new proposal from Copenhagen-based think tank

21st Europe aims to connect 39 cities including Barcelona and Madrid with a 22,000km high-speed rail network called Starline. Operating like a metro across borders, trains would run at 300–400 km/h, slashing travel times and cutting short-haul flights by up to 80%.

The plan promises seamless travel with unified ticketing, modern stations as cultural hubs, and no class divisions— just quiet zones, cafes, and open-plan seating. Publicly funded and EU-regulated, Starline could generate millions of jobs and help meet 2050 net-zero goals.

“Now we begin building the network to push for real change,” says 21st Europe.

November 29thDecember 12th 2023 LOOKING FOR MORE TRAVEL STORIES?

Queen of the Med

BRITISH travel expert Annie Bennett has declared Valencia the ‘queen of the Mediterranean’,praising its vibrant food scene, culture, and affordability. “You can keep your spending down in Valencia without even trying,” she said. With a glass of wine for €5, coffee for €1.40,

BREXODUS

HAVE the anti-tourism protestors finally won? Brits are turning their backs on Spain in droves, fed up with rising hostility, new rules, and a welcome that’s growing colder by the day.

Latest research from One Sure Insurance reveals UK holidaymakers are now favouring other European hotspots – with Amsterdam

Mad rum madness

By Walter Finch

RUM lovers, get ready - Madrid’s about to go full pirate mode.

From May 7-12, the capital will be swimming in sugarcane spirits as ‘Mad Ron Week’ rolls into town - a brand new celebration of all things rum, cocktails and chaos.

Hosted by a crew of top brand ambassadors, the boozy blowout promises to shake up Madrid’s already-thriving bar scene. Expect tastings, mixology masterclasses, and themed menus at hotspots like Farandula Fearless, Lovo, and the tiki-tastic Volcano.

The fun all builds to a fiery finale on Monday May 12: the Daq-Off, a speed competition where bartenders battle it out to see who can sling the quickest Daiquiris - one for the judge, one for themselves.

soaring to the top of the wishlist at 42,000 monthly flight searches, overtaking Spain. The shift follows mass protests across Spanish tourist favourites last week, where furious locals blamed visitors for rocketing rents and vanishing communities. Demonstrators took to the streets in many cities, including Malaga, Palma and Valencia, calling for curbs on tourism and foreign property buyers. Throw in new clampdowns on booze, smoking and vaping at beaches, and Spain's once-irresist-

and very affordable tapas, the birthplace of paella offers flavour without the hefty price tag. Unlike commercialised resorts like Benidorm, Valencia blends history, stunning architecture, and golden beaches with charm and authenticity.

From the futuristic City of Arts (left) to the lush Turia Gardens, it’s no wonder Brits are flocking to this sun-soaked Spanish gem.

Brits ditch Spain as anti-tourism fury grows

DETERRENCE: One of the main goals is to stop ‘overtourism’

ible charm is fast fading.

“We’re seeing more Brits looking for culture, history, and fresh experiences – without the drama,” a One Sure Insurance spokesperson said. Staycations and lesser-known gems like Budapest, Krakow and Athens are surging in popularity – while Edinburgh has stormed into fourth place. The blow is massive for Spain. In 2024, 18.4 million Brits visited, spending a whopping €22.6 billion – more than any other nationality. Tourism makes up 12% of Spain’s

GDP, with UK visitors propping up resorts on the Costa del Sol, Balearics and the Costa Blanca.

The trend raises questions about whether the vocal anti-tourism protests may ultimately damage the very economies they claimed to be protecting.

“Brits are moving beyond the usual beach holiday locations to cities which offer not only history and culture, but also a fresh experience,” the One Sure Insurance spokesperson added.

SAY ADIOS TO JAMON

TAKING jamon, chorizo or Manchego cheese back to the UK?

Think again. UK travellers have been banned from importing meat and dairy from the EU due to a growing outbreak of footand-mouth disease (FMD) in Europe.

The ban covers all meat from pigs, cows, sheep, goats and deer, plus cheese, milk, butter, and yoghurt- even sandwiches. Exceptions include infant formula and some medical foods under strict conditions.

The move aims to protect British livestock from FMD, a highly infectious animal disease. Offenders risk confiscation, fines up to £5,000, or destroyed items. Fish, poultry, eggs, fruit and veg are still allowed under certain rules. Officials urge travellers to check guidelines before packing food souvenirs.

QUIXOTIC!!

THE city of Cordoba is one of Andalu cia’s most spectacular treasures.

Most visitors are familiar with the Mezquita - the astound ingly beautiful former mosque - or the Patio Competition, held every May, when exquisitely decorated courtyards compete for prizes.

But this time, we’re veering off the well-worn path to explore some of Cordoba’s hidden corners - the backstreets and tucked-away plazas that are too often overlooked.

Let’s be clear from the outset: the places we’re about to highlight are just a handful of the city’s many gems. This article could easily have been five times as long!

We begin at the charming Plaza del Potro, or ‘Square of the Foal’, named for the fountain at its centre featuring a carved horse dating back to 1577 (the horse figure itself was added a few years

By Michael Coy

later).

This atmospheric square has at least four claims to fame.

First, it’s home to Cordoba’s Museum of Fine Arts.

Second, it houses the Centro Flamenco Fosforito (more on that shortly). Third, it’s the setting for one of Don Quijote’s most humorous adventures.

At the far end of the square, once the site of a tavern, Cervantes’ deluded knight checks in and spends the evening standing guard with a colander on his head, convinced it’s a helmet. Cervantes, who knew Cordoba well and appreciated its cheeky sense of humour, has the landlord mock Don Quijote with a list of ‘famous’ locations - all, in

LEARNING IN PARADISE

When you learn a language in an immersive environment, you retain almost twice as much of what you learn. Aloha Vera offers a warm, welcoming environment to learn Spanish.

Located in Jarandilla de la Vera, a rural village nestled between

mountains and crystal-clear rivers in Spain’s Extremadura region, it’s the perfect place to bring Spanish language and culture to life. Jarandilla is where community intertwines with nature. Its cobblestone streets, adorned with flowers and friendly smiles, create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. “From the very first day, I felt like I belonged here,” shares Anne, a participant from Paris. “The warmth of the people and the beauty of the place made learning Spanish more than just classes — especially under the sunny skies!” Our Spanish classes cater to all

Discover the Heart of Spanish: Aloha Vera Language Retreats

levels and focus on practical conversations, allowing you to communicate right from the start. “The experience was enriching,” says Marco from Brazil. “Not only did I learn the language, but I also connected with the local culture and enjoyed the relaxed lifestyle here.”

Afternoons are filled with outdoor activities, from leisurely walks through the countryside to indulging in local products. One highlight is taking refreshing dips in

delicacies foster a deeper connection with others and yourself. “Eating together, sharing stories, and laughing under the warm sun is part of what makes this experience unique,” says Peter from Belgium. Our retreat is fully inclusive, covering classes, accommodation, and meals, so the natural swimming holes nearby, surrounded by stunning landscapes. “Bathing in the natural pools while practicing my Spanish was unforgettable,” says Clara from Germany. “The beautiful weather made it even better!”

At Aloha Vera, we also prioritize well-being. Outdoor yoga sessions and shared meals featuring local

Little-Known Cordoba: The Olive Press takes you on a tour to discover hidden corners that Cervantes lived and loved in

fact, brothels - to which Don Quijote solemnly replies that he has indeed guarded them all.

Lastly, the square is home to the Museo Julio Romero de Torres. The artist, born in 1874 and a lifelong cordobes, lived in this very building. Today it houses the finest collection of his works. Romero was known for his dedication to capturing the essence of Cordoba’s women

you can focus on what matters most: learning and enjoying. We also provide free pickup in Madrid to take you to Jarandilla. If you dream of improving your Spanish while basking in the sunshine and connecting with a beautiful place and its people, we look forward to welcoming you this spring or summer. Jarandilla de la Vera is the perfect place to make memories and build language skills that last a lifetime.

Learn more and reserve your spot for the next available retreats starting on 25 June, 7 and 15 July, 23 September, insert the promo code ‘TheOlivePress’ at www.alohavera.es and get a 25% discount. For more information contact Natalia Rivas (Co-Founder & Executive Director) by telephone on +34 626 99 41 11, by email: vive@ alohavera.es, visit www.alohavera.es or visit in person at C/ Altozano 10, 10450 Jarandilla de la Vera, Cáceres. Extremadura. España.

HIDDEN DELIGHT: Cordoba’s Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bella Artes), while, right, a Muslim arch tucked away in Cordoba’s famous Mezquita

FOOD & DRINK

November 29thDecember 12th 2023

April 23rdMay 6th 2025

HEART OF THE CITY: The Plaza del Potro (left) while (above) the Museo Julio Romero de Torres and (inset) the artist’s Chiquita Piconera. Meanwhile (below) the Centro Flamenco Fosforito of Don Quijote fame

- dark hair, olive skin, intense eyes - and he was never short of muses.

From here, we move on to another of Cordoba’s lesser-known spaces: the Plaza de la Corredera.

Unlike any other square in the city, this large rectangular plaza now hosts an open-air market. But in centuries past, it served as the city’s bullring.

Built in 1683, its stark architecture reflects the austere psychology of 17th-cen-

tury Cordoba. It also has a darker history: it was once the site of public executions, where non-Christians were sometimes burnt at the stake.

Thankfully, Cordoba also offers plenty of lighter fare.

A short stroll away is the Casa Mudejar, a cluster of interconnected houses from the 1500s, designed in traditional Arab style. Cordoba, after all, remains Spain’s most ‘Arabic’ city in character.

Perhaps the city’s most iconic figure is Manolete, the legendary bullfighter who was fatally gored in 1947. His memory still looms large here, and nowhere more so than at the Municipal Bullfighting Museum, located in the Jewish Quarter.

Then there’s the Centro Flamenco Fosforito, a cultur-

al centre dedicated to Antonio Fernandez Diaz - better known as Fosforito - widely regarded as Cordoba’s greatest living flamenco singer.

But this isn’t just a museum. Ever wondered what a seguiriya is? Here, interactive displays walk you through the various palos (styles) of flamenco music. And if you’re staying more than a day, consider catching a live performance at the centre. Because here’s the twist: the Flamenco Centre is located in the very building that once housed Don Quijote’s infamous tavern - the one where the Man of La Mancha stood guard with a kitchen strainer on his head. History, humour, and haunting melodies - that’s the magic of Cordoba’s hidden corners.

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

CARPING ON

ITH its sunken ponds, stone walls and acres of new wood,

climbing plants and vines.

Taking its name from the Japanese fish that was first displayed in Tokyo in 1914, it appropriately has a water feature with natural rock walls at one end of the restaurant.

And, while there is a terrace outside, on a cool evening it has the theatrical look to make you feel very much at home… particularly if you’re in the heart of it on the central banquettes.

The flash of flames from the kitchen adds to the milieu, while the engine room of chefs goes about creating their ‘pan Asian’ cuisine, which means combining the best of Thailand, China and Japan. This is a departure, a real departure from the norm on the Costa del Sol.

And, as they claim on

It has the feel of a Bond villain’s lair, but the sophistication of the best of Asia’ writes Jon Clarke

the menu, ‘every bite is a journey’. So the menu turns out to be an exciting trawl through eleven separate sections, from the ‘raw bar’ to the ‘ceviches and tiraditos’ and ‘dim sum’ to ‘salads’. I’m more interested in the tempura and sushi sections, but kicked off with a couple of dishes from the ‘small plates’ section, which include Edamame beans, either salted or spicy (go spicy, every time!)

The garden sushi roll meanwhile, was really fresh - beautifully made with an avocado hat, crystal gem lettuce and seaweed wrap.

GOODIE: But feels like baddie Blofeld’s home (right) in You Only Live Twice, while the ‘baobing’ dessert is the very best

A ‘snow crab’ roll with chives, tobiko and cucumber was amazing, and even better when doused in a decent pinch of wasabi.

Next up, I had to try the ‘chef’s selection’ dim sum platter to share. It comes out in a box, with a steaming mix of lobster and prawn and chicken gyozas, Peking duck spring rolls and splendid diver scallops in a ‘kataifi’ pastry with

an ‘xo sauce’. All in all a massive

While my son went for Chinese sticky pork ribs with ginger and siu sauce, which he loved, my vegetarian friend Guy enjoyed the tempura vegetables and a vegetable pad Thai.

I was recommended The ‘San Choi bow’ which is a classic finger dish in which you make your own baos.

It comes with a big plate of wagyu beef, with basil, coriander, lime and roasted peanuts to add into a lettuce leaf as you see fit.

Visually, the best was to come with the ‘baobing’ strawberry shaved Taiwanese snow ice.

Out came our waiter Emiliano, a friend-

ly chap, with a device which somehow made candy floss in front of our eyes, mixed in with chocolate sauce, fresh strawber ries, dragon fruit and vanilla ice cream.

We shared it between three of us and were more than sated.

I could be carping on about this place for months, if you’ll excuse the pun.

SURPRISE: The dimsum platter, and (right) the garden sushi roll and (far right) snow crab roll

29 April 23rdMay 6th 2025

Grounded!

Small airport threat from Ryanair amid ‘overcharging’ claim

By Alex Trelinski

RYANAIR has threatened to cut more services to smaller regional airports in Spain in its ongoing row over charges for using them.

The warning has come from the carrier's CEO Eddie Wilson.

The company announced in January it was closing operations in Jerez and Valladolid as well as cutting services to and from Santiago de Compostela, Asturias, Cantabria and Zaragoza.

Further reductions could start with the 2026 winter schedule which kicks in at the end of October coupled with next year's high season flights.

Wilson said: “Regions need low fees to stimulate growth, and they must be accompanied by low costs, because otherwise the formula does not work.”

“We cancelled 800,000 seats this summer because we had better options to al-

WARNING: Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson says fees are too high

locate that capacity to other locations in Europe, “ he added.

At the same time, Ryanair increased its schedule to bigger airports including Alicante-Elche, Madrid, and Malaga - adding 1.5 million extra seats.

“Regional airports are 70% underutilised, so something is not working,” Wilson told El Economista

Either people don't want to go to the regions, or airlines don't want to put planes there, but there is a problem, and Spain must solve it,” he stated.

In an attack on airport operator Aena, Wilson branded it as a ‘monopoly’.

“We are not asking for subsidies or special treatment for Ryanair, only a growth mod-

el that reduces the average cost with competitive airport charges for all airlines".

Ever since January's announcement of flight cuts, Aena has publicly stated that it wants to talk with Ryanair, but Wilson has a different take.

“They are not interested. We have been commenting on this issue for years and they only announce incentive plans that are not working. They are a monopoly and try to maintain control without having to change anything.

“They say that it is regulated by law, but if something needs to be done, the government can intervene and change it,” says Wilson, who made it clear that he is happy to negotiate a deal that satisfies everybody.

UNIQUE EXPERTISE

‘A talented financial planner can steer a family or individual away from risky investments’

PETER Dougherty isn’t like any other financial planner you’ll meet. That’s not because he has credentials that stand out in a crowd (although his credentials do stand out in a crowd). Instead, it’s because he thinks the best way he can help others is by using his knowledge of finance.

It’s a unique point of view.

As Dougherty says: “Doctors and firefighters aren’t the only professionals able to rescue a client from potential danger. A talented financial planner can steer a family or individual away from risky investments and toward a successful financial future. This is particularly true for English-speakers living in Spain. Not only is there little guidance for expats about how to navigate finances between two countries, but the information available in Spain is often confusing and sometimes misleading.”

So, Mr. Dougherty has made it his mission to provide the financial planning and investment assistance that Americans and other English-speakers throughout Spain need. That’s why he earned a master’s degree in Spanish taxation from Nebrija University last year. And that’s why he works at a firm called BISSAN Wealth Management, where he is the only employee who is not a native Spanish-speaker. This was intentional on Dougherty’s part. By combining his knowledge with that of local experts already in place, his clients receive the best financial planning advice available in Spain. What further sets BISSAN apart, Mr. Dougherty believes, is its relationship with clients: “Some financial advisors see themselves as the main

character in any story involving financial matters. But at BISSAN Wealth Management, we look at it differently: each client is the hero of their story. After all, each clients’ financial dreams are their own. Nonetheless, Spain is full of confusing, sometimes contradictory information about money matters. So, the role of a financial planner should be as a trusted guide who helps clients reach their financial goals. If you’re able to find the right guide, it’s much more likely you’ll get to your destination.”

Peter Dougherty is a Financial Planner at BISSAN Wealth Management in Spain. He holds an MBA in finance from Columbia University in New York and an MS in Spanish taxation (Máster en Fiscalidad y Tributación) from Nebrija University in Spain. He is certified as a European Financial Planner (EFP) in Spain and as a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor® and Investment Adviser Representative in the United States. BISSAN Wealth Management is both authorized by, and supervised by, the National Securities Market Commission (Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores), the Spanish government agency responsible for the financial regulation of the securities markets in Spain. BISSAN has offices in Barcelona and Bilbao.

CONSTRUCTION

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Puzzle solutions

Crossword

Across: 7 Papa, 8 Omelette, 9 Martinis, 10 Rad, 11 Goers, 12 Praised, 14 Case law, 16 Egypt, 18 Err, 19 Pursuant, 20 Denounce, 21 Vane.

Down: 1 Paranoia, 2 Master bedroom, 3 Hosni, 4 Geyser, 5 Learning curve, 6 P T S D, 12 P O W, 13 Exponent, 15 Aspens, 17 Trees, 18 Eyes.

A MEASLES outbreak is sweeping across Andalucía, with health chiefs warning the Costa del Sol is one of the worst-hit areas.

So far, 56 cases have been confirmed in 2025 - including 32 in Malaga province alone.

Two new outbreaks were reported this

Measles warning

week in El Ejido and Huelva, both involving Moroccan nationals.

Officials say 27% of cases are imported, mostly from Morocco, which is grappling with a huge outbreak of its own.

Worryingly, 41% of patients have been hospitalised – some with pneumonia. Kids under one year old account for 14% of infections.

Despite high vaccination rates in Spain, 28 cases involved unvaccinated people. Locals are being urged to get their jabs as health bosses try to contain the spread.

SILENT KILLERS

The two factors causing a steep rise in cancer among young people

AN expert has revealed ‘the two silent killers’ behind alarming levels of cancer within youngsters.

cardiologist Curelio Rojas claims ‘detection of cancer among young people has surged by 80% in recent years.’

The doctor has identified sugar and refined flour as the ‘undetected enemies’ which cause cancer, as opposed to the more common

By Tom Ewart Smith

reasons.

Cancers within young people ‘are associated with elevated levels of insulin, which acts as a powerful factor in growing, stimulating the proliferation of cancer cells’. Specifically, the expert is talking about breast, stom -

ach, pancreas, colon, and prostate cancer. The two foods contributing

WATCH WHAT YOU EAT

OLDER men and women battling the bulge might be on the brink of a bone-boosting breakthrough – thanks to a slimmeddown Mediterranean diet and a bit of a jog around the block!

A new Spanish study has revealed that tucking into an ‘energy reduced’ version of the Med diet – packed with veggies, olive oil, fish, and pulses but adjusted to have less calories (watch the portions!) – and

moving those hips with regular exercise could protect your bones from crumbling with age.

They discovered that ‘older women’ who embraced the energy-reduced diet and got active managed to ‘boost bone mineral density (BMD)’ in their lower backs – one of the most fracture-prone areas in later life. They also lost weight without sacrificing bone strength.

to a rise in insulin production are sugar and refined wheat flour, according to Rojas.

“Coincidentally, they are the two products that produce the most heart issues also. So if you want to prevent disease and look after yourself, you already know what foods to avoid,” he claims.

If youngsters wish to avoid becoming part of such a horrifying statistic, it would be wise to cut down on sugar and refined wheat flour in their daily diets.

ALWAYS IMPROVING

QUIRÓNSALUD Marbella Hospital is reinforcing its commitment to the healthcare of both residents and visitors of the city with the opening of three new floors in the Singlehome building.

The launch of these new facilities adds 6,500 square meters of space distributed across three levels, all designed to offer excellent medical care.

The architectural design of each floor prioritises optimal space usage for patient service, with a carefully planned layout that includes large rooms featuring expansive windows that allow abundant natural light.

Comfort, technology, and functionality define these new facilities, with a particular focus on implementing a new patient management and reception system. In this regard, Quirónsalud Marbella becomes the first centre in Andalucia within the

Quirónsalud Marbella strengthens its commitment to healthcare with the opening of three new floors in Singlehome

hospital group to establish a Health Management Point.

“This concept is based on creating a personalised care area where we’ve removed the architectural barrier of traditional reception desks to offer our patients a warm and welcoming space that humanises the admissions process and evolves into a personalised reception,” explains Dr. Miguel Ángel Ramírez, Medical Director of the Marbella hospital.

Dr. Ramírez emphasises the active role the centre takes in guiding and assisting patients, stating: “In this model, health managers are dynamic in their approach, providing guidance and useful advice to sup-

port patients in making informed decisions.”

In this new phase, Quirónsalud Marbella has also launched the Scribe Project, an innovative initiative by the Quirónsalud group that places the doctor-patient relationship at the core of consultations, encouraging direct communication. Using generative Artificial Intelligence, the conversation between doctor and patient is transcribed and interpreted. Scribe identifies key elements to populate the medical record, filtering out irrelevant or unrelated information.

It is a powerful tool that streamlines and personalises the consultation process, saving time and enhancing the overall experience for both

doctor and patient. To help visitors navigate the new building, the layout of each floor has been replicated so that they can quickly become familiar with the new spatial distribution. It’s also worth highlighting the strategic location of the Singlehome building, situated right on the beachfront - a notable distinguishing factor that benefits patients. The consultation rooms, located around

the perimeter of each floor, feature large windows offering bright, relaxing spaces aligned with the highest quality standards.

This design reinforces Quirónsalud’s care model, which focuses on process optimisation while respecting patients’ time, comfort, and well-being.

The opening of these three new floors in the Singlehome building marks the completion of the transformation of this iconic office build-

ing into Quirónsalud Marbella’s new strategic outpatient consultation centre.

As a result, three nearby peripheral centres have ceased operations: Quirónsalud Marbella Ophthalmology Centre, Quirónsalud Marbella Medical Centre, and Quirónsalud Guadalete Medical Centre. All specialties from these locations have been relocated to the new Singlehome headquarters, with some even expanding their capacity.

MAJOR EXPANSION: The new floors add 6,500 m2 of space

DANGER: Keep clear of sugar and refined flour!

WELCOME: Light and friendly reception area

O P LIVE RESS ANDALUCÍA

Sagrada selfies

TOURIST’S will be able to pose outside Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia in a zone specifically for selfies, with officials hoping it will ease congestion ahead of the cathedral’s completion next year.

Ape terror

TWO teenagers were caught on camera fleeing in terror from a group of Barbary macaques on the Rock of Gibraltar with one monkey seen reaching for one girl’s bag.

Donut ban

SPAIN’S government has banned soft drinks and junk food from being sold in high schools to combat a third of kids being classed as overweight.

On our way!

SUNBURN? Check. Socks and sandals? Obviously. Paella with chorizo? You heathen!

A Spanish Instagram account has sparked laughs - and maybe a few cringeswith its cheeky take on classic tourist stereotypes in Spain. The viral post from @spain says (boasting over half a million followers) unveils the ultimate ‘Guiri en España Starter Pack’. Featured essentials? A lobster-red Brit, dodgy Hawaiian shirt, pint of beer, and yes… the tragic belief that real

BASEBALL cap on, elbow pads strapped, and a mischievous grin in place - Juanjo Urbizu isn’t your typical pen sioner. At 88 years old, this Spanish daredevil is tearing up skateparks and turning heads as

By Tom Ewart Smith

paella includes chorizo. Sacrilege! Also in the kit: camera round the neck, chino shorts, dark shades, and an unwavering love for shouting “OLEEE!” at inappropriate moments. Basically, everything you’d expect to see around a beachfront bar in Benidorm by 3pm—ideally clutching a novelty inflatable and absolutely butchering basic

Tourists get roasted in ‘guiri’ holiday starter pack

Spanish. It’s all light-hearted fun, of course— but behind the satire lies a question: Are these caricatures fair, or are we just laughing because they hit way too close to home?

Ramps for gramps

he drops into concrete bowls with the confidence of a teenager. Locals in Bilbao’s gritty Begoña neighbourhood watch in awe as Urbizu - clad in joggers and a tucked-in tee - glides across graffiti-covered ramps like it’s second nature. Juanjo only took up skateboarding at 70, swapping snow sports for something cheaper but just as thrilling. Now, he skates twice a week and charms locals with tales of his latest tricks. In an ageing Spain,

FORGET your croissants and donuts – Spain’s latest fad bakery is for furry foodies.

Dulces para Perros , Malaga’s first-ever bakery dedicated entirely to dogs, has opened its doors – and tails are wagging all over town. The boutique bakery whips up handcrafted goodies just for pups – we’re talking cakes made of chicken and carrot, liver cupcakes, and even tuna tarts for the feline friends.

Tasting

No salt, no sugar, no nasties – just all-natural treats that even the fussiest pooch would fancy. There’s even a tasting bar, so your pet can pick their favourite snack before you splash the cash. Planning a paw-ty?

where over half the population is 44 or older, Juanjo’s story is a breath of fresh air. To seniors thinking of joining him on the ramps? “Take it slow,” he warns. “Concrete hurts way more than snow.”

They’ll custom-make a birthday cake for your dog too! Find it at Avenida de los Guindos 29 – and yes, dogs are very welcome.