BEWARE of buying that fake Rolex off a street seller - it could set you back €750.
A new ordinance in Palma targets not just illegal sellers - but also their customers.
The crackdown, led by Palma police, means anyone purchasing items such as sunglasses, jewellery, counterfeit clothing or drinks from street sellers could face fines between €100 and €750. Sellers themselves face up to €1,500.
And now Local Police have revealed they have fined the first person they have spotted buying from an unlicenced seller since the ordinance came into effect on May 26.
Crackdown
The city council says the move is designed to protect licensed local businesses and reduce street-level crime, particularly in tourist hotspots like Playa de Palma, Arenal, and Sant Miquel. Officers from the Litoral police district are now patrolling beach areas daily to enforce the law.
Palma’s mayor Jaime Martínez pledged during his 2023 campaign to tackle street selling ‘with total impunity’ - and this ordinance delivers on that promise.
Critics argue the rule disproportionately affects tourists and residents, who are easier to track and fine than sellers, many of whom are undocumented.
The city has previously launched programmes like T’acompanyo to help vendors transition to legal employment, but campaigners say more support is needed.
The ordinance is part of a wider crackdown that also bans graffiti, nudism, prostitution, reckless scooter use and balconing - dangerous hotel balcony stunts.
BEACH BABES
Getting worse
JUST like the fiery scenes of summer 2024, thousands of furious Spaniairds once again flooded the streets of Mallorca last weekend, demanding a dramatic cut to mass tourism before it chokes their communities for good.
From Barcelona to Benidorm, Palma to Palermo, the message was united: “Tourism is stealing our homes, our wages, and our way of life.”
Here in Mallorca, thousands turned out in Palma’s Plaça d’Espanya demanding tighter regulation, more protections for locals, and an end to tourist saturation. Many carried signs reading ‘Mallorca is not for sale’ and ‘Stop killing our island’.
Ibiza, too, saw fiery protests, with locals blasting the island’s transformation into a ‘playground for the rich’ while workers can’t afford to live where they work.
In Barcelona, where tensions have been boiling over for years, more than 600 protestors armed with super-soakers sprayed tourists, echoing last year’s viral footage of holidaymakers getting drenched mid-dinner.
Slogans like ‘Guiris go home’ and ‘Tourism steals our future’ were plastered across the city, with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton targeted by angry demonstrators.
The protests were part of a coordinated Southern European uprising organised by the SET Alliance (Southern Europe Against Touristification), which also included rallies in Lisbon, Venice, Na- ples, and Genoa.
Water pistols, angry chants and a message loud and clear: enough is enough
By Dilip Kuner
own town – and the only thing growing is the queue at the food bank.”
Spain’s government admitted just last month that over 60,000 illegal Airbnb listings are fuelling the rent crisis. In Palma, rents have tripled in some areas over the last 10 years – all while low-paid tourism workers are forced into overcrowded flats or hour-long commutes.
Tourism isn’t just pricing locals out - it’s straining water supplies, jamming roads, and turning once tranquil neighbourhoods into noisy, litter-strewn party zones, claim protestors.
There’s talk of expanding airports, including Barcelona’s El-Prat, to bring in more tourists - something protestors say is environmental and social madness.
Spain welcomed 94 million foreign visitors in 2024, a 13% spike, and 2025 is set to see new records for tourist numbers.
This isn’t Mallorca’s first rodeo when
PROTEST: Thousands took to the streets to demand action
scattering leaflets and chanting ‘This is not tourism, it’s invasion!”
In 2019, protestors marched down Passeig del Born, demanding a freeze on tourist licences and tougher restrictions on holiday rentals. That same year, local housing activists set up mock ‘eviction zones’ to symbolise how tourism was displacing Mallorquins from their homes.
The COVID-19 pandemic briefly paused the tourism machine, and for a while, locals enjoyed quieter streets, cleaner beaches, and affordable rents. But when borders reopened, it came back with a vengeance - bigger, brasher, and even more commercialised.
Since then, protests have grown larger and more organised.
In 2023, campaign group Terraferida exposed illegal construction and environmental damage in the Serra de Tramuntana, prompting a massive online backlash and another round of public protests.
Now, with international support and the SET Alliance backing them, Mallorcans are sending a united message to Madrid, Brussels, and beyond: either fix the tourism model, or expect more backlash.
Opinion Page 6
Organisers in Mallorca said they’ve had enough of politicians turning a blind eye while foreign investors snap up homes for Airbnb rentals.
One protester shouted:
“We can’t even rent a flat in our
it comes to anti-tourism protests.
In 2017, graffiti reading ‘Tourism kills Mallorca’ appeared across Palma, with flares let off at the port to disrupt cruise ship operations.
Later that summer, activists stormed a restaurant in Palma’s La Lonja district,
SWIMMING WITH MANTAS
MAJESTIC manta rays are moving more frequently along the Mediterranean coast, with one surprising swimmers in S’Arenal this week.
Spotted near the Yacht Club at S’Arenal de Llucmajor, bathers at first mistakenly thought it was a shark.
Measuring just under 3 metres, several lifeguards and Palma Aquarium staff pulled the Mobula Mobular ray from the water and carried it to a van to take to the aquarium.
Sources from the Aquarium told Diario de Mallorca that the ray had since died
due to its ‘very weakened state’. Samples were collected from the specimen. The endangered species has started to appear more frequently in Mallorca in recent months. Most recently, a manta ray appeared on Illetes Beach on Calvia on June 6.
The Aquarium has heard reports of eight sightings of the Mobula Mobular around the Balearic Islands’ coastlines, with 43 sightings of other manta rays - including violet rays and stingrays - reaching 43.
The filter-feeding ray lives mainly in the open sea.
RESCUE: Scientists came to the aid of this manta ray
Zoe Dahse
Celebrity cruise
RENOWNED director
Steven Spielberg has arrived in Mallorcan waters to sail aboard his 250 million dollar superyacht Seven Seas. Old pal Daniel Day-Lewis also joined for a cruise.
Fight club
IRISH sports star
Conor McGregor reportedly punched a person several times while partying in an Ibiza club. Amazingly, he didn’t spill his drink while he struck.
Drownings
TWO men in their sixties drowned at beaches in Mallorca on the weekend. Another man was rescued and was revived after 20 minutes of resuscitation efforts by lifeguards.
Man-of-War
THE world’s most dangerous jellyfish, the Portuguese man-of-war washed up on Cala en Porter beach on Menorca.
TOURIST IN DOUBLE ASSAULT
A BRITISH man was hauled before a Palma judge for hitting his 16-year-old girlfriend in a Magaluf street. The incident happened in the early hours of June 9 where a female ‘Good
Samaritan’ was also hurt. The assailant, 25, was bailed after his court appearance. The couple had jetted into Mallorca for a four-day mini-break.
The 16-year-old told the Guardia Civil that her parents did not know she was away with her boyfriend. She refused to press charges but had a head bruise treated at a medical centre. A passer-by who got punched by the man in an attempt to calm him down, did file a complaint.
Jaw attack trauma
A MAGALUF hotel worker who had his jaw broken by a British tourist says his
‘has been ruined’ by the assault.
Speaking to the Ultima Hora newspaper, he expressed his disgust that the offender is back in the UK after paying bail of just €1,000. Meanwhile the married father-of-three has to take sleeping pills and takes his food via a straw.
Three people who were not staying at the unnamed hotel tried to get into the room of a female guest in the early
FIVE more people have been arrested for an armed assault on a police van to free a British prisoner who had been jailed for drug smuggling. The Guardia Civil collaborated with Europol and the UK’s National Crime Agency for Operation Van Ibiza, during an ongoing investigation after the incident. The assailants used guns to threaten police who were guard-
Hotel employee’s life ‘ruined’ by one-punch Brit
Alex Trelinski
hours of June 1.
A commotion broke out after the employee, 29, blocked their way and was punched in the jaw by the 33-year-old Brit. He suffered a fracture and lost several teeth, with the Guardia Civil detaining the assailant a few hours later.
NABBED: Police lead away the accused assailant
The victim - who has maintained his anonymity - told Ultima Hora that he spent three days in hospital after undergoing emergency surgery to reconstruct his jaw.
One of the consequences was that he had paid €3,000 to a local academy for a course but could not continue.
“This has upset all my shortterm plans to better myself,
SPRUNG FROM CUSTODY
ing the prisoner as he was getting out of the van to be treated at a dental clinic in Ibiza in 2023. The assailants were wearing bulletproof vests and used a motorcycle and a high-end vehicle stolen from the UK with fake number plates, which they also later set on fire. Although the prisoner was freed by the perpetrators, he was arrested again a few hours later. The prisoner had been serving a prison sentence for international drug trafficking and money laundering offences. Several suspects were arrested the day after the prisoner was freed, now, two years later, five more people have been detained.
but the director of the academy understands what happened and I will be able to return to my studies when I can,” he commented. He was also critical of hotel staff who, when he was in the operating theatre, called his wife and only inquired about how long he would be away from work.
“They were only worried about that,” he stated.
Teen’s brutal attack
A BRITISH teen who brutally attacked a bar doorman in Magaluf with a bottle has been given an 18-month suspended sentence.
The incident occured in the early morning hours of July, 2019, on the terrace of a bar on Calle Punta Ballena.
The tourist, who was 19-yearold at the time, was booted out from the establishment by the 29-year-old Lithuanian doorman as a result of the tourists inappropriate behaviour.
After he was denied re-entry to the premises, he broke a bottle and struck the doorman twice in the face. The doorman was taken to hospital requiring surgery and 50 stitches for the serious injuries.
Defending
The tourist, swiftly arrested by the Guardia Civil, argued he had been defending himself. However, CCTV footage showed the doorman had not previously attacked him. After paying €15,000 bail, the tourist returned to the UK. When he failed to respond to the Palma courts he was placed on Spain’s wanted list. He was located and sentenced via videoconference on Wednesday. The Prosecutor’s Office had sought a five-year prison sentence, but this was reduced and then suspended on the condition the man does not commit any more crimes. He has also paid the doorman €40,000 in compensation.
MIND YOUR LANGUAGE
ENGLAND footballer Trent Alexander-Arnold impressed fans with his fluent Spanish at his Real Madrid unveiling.
The 26-year-old spoke for over a minute without notes, thanking the club and expressing his excitement about joining the Spanish giants. His speech, which included a shout of ‘Hala Madrid’, highlighted his desire
CARLOS Alcaraz has been taking a few days off in Ibiza to completely disconnect from tennis, after his gruelling French Open win. He was joined by his usual crew of friends, including Tottenham Hotspur footballer, Sergio Re-
England football star AlexanderArnold wows fans with fluent Spanish skills at Real Madrid unveiling
By Ben Pawlowski
to win titles and showcase his skills.
British footballers have long
Time to relax
guilon, who somehow managed to ‘win’ a Europa League winner’s medal despite not being registered in the squad.
The 22-year-old tennis ace pulled off an unbelievable comeback against rival Jannik Sinner, recovering from two sets down and saving three championship points in a marathon final that lasted over five and a half hours.
held a reputation for lacklustre language skills, with the likes of Gareth Bale, David Beckham and Michael Owen famously failing to get to grips with the local lingo.
When asked by the press how long he had been learning Spanish, Alexander-Arnold replied: “A few months, a few months.”
The right-back joins Real from his boyhood club Liverpool where he made 354 appear-
ances in all competitions, scoring 27 goals and providing 96 assists.
Alexander-Arnold’s contract had been due to run out at the end of June, but Los Blancos agreed a €10 million deal that allows the defender to join Xabi Alonso’s squad ahead of this month’s lucrative inaugural Club World Cup in the US.
The Englishman was hailed as a star by Real Madrid’s flamboyant president, Florentino Perez, who in his opening address said: “26-years-old, a legend in the game, and now he is joining our family.
“A player who has won everything. One of the best defenders and full-backs in world football who has played for one of the most important clubs in the world, Liverpool.
MULLINS IT OVER
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LIFE IN THE UK AND LIFE IN SPAIN, WRITES CHARLIE MULLINS
DAMP SQUIB: The Europa League final
A year in Marbella, football farce, and the gangster plague hitting Spain
AS I’m sure you’ve all heard by now, I’ve officially embraced my role as a full-time expat resident in Marbella - and, I’ve got to say, it’s been a year of bliss.
So, after a year of soaking up the sun and living the Spanish dream, I reckon I’m well within my rights to voice my opinion on what’s going down in Spain - especially with the flood of Brit tourists descending for the next few months.
Is it too soon to start playing the classic NIMBY? May be, but when you can’t even get a table at Cyrano in La Cala because tourists have snapped up every last booking, I think it’s fair game to have a little moan. That’s my whinge of the week. Now, let’s get onto the serious (and slightly bizarre) matter of two English football clubs battling it out in the final of a major European competition - the UEFA League - in Bilbao.
On a positive note, I hear the Spanish authorities did a better job looking after the Manchester United and Tottenham fans than the French have in recent years.
A mate of mine - let’s call him Jon, a diehard Spurs fanwent up for the match. Now, even though it was probably the most mind-numbing football match since the Greeks somehow dragged themselves across the finish line at the 2004 Euros, Jon came away as happy as Larry. His beloved Spurs (currently languishing in 17th in the
Premier League) managed to scrape past an equally uninspiring Manchester United (sitting at 16th) by the slimmest of margins - a 1-0 win.
Not exactly a classic, but hey, it was a European trophy, and that’s something. Rumour has it the catering was top-notch, and unlike the usual dodgy trip back from White Hart Lane, the good folks of Bilbao weren’t out there setting up ambushes for the 80,000-strong crowd of British fans.
Now, as an Arsenal fan, I can’t help but wonder: What lessons, if any, will our traditional rivals over at Spurs take from their Bilbao adventure on May 21? It seems to me Tottenham play a whole lot better when they’re off British soil. Sure, they lost 22 matches in the Premier League, but somehow managed to trouser a major European title on the other side of the Channel. Maybe, just maybe, Tottenham Hotspur might want to consider a US-style relocation?
After all, Malaga, who are affectionately known as Los Boquerones (the anchovies), don’t have much of a winning legacy down here on the Costa del Sol. Sure, they bagged the 2002 Intertoto Cup, but that’s about it. So why not ditch the smelly fish team and bring a real bit of English football to the Costa del Sol? Spurs, it’s a no-brainer!
Away from Jon’s football obsession, though, there’s another UK import we could all do without - and that’s the gangster lifestyle that’s currently giving Spain a bad reputation. Clearly British wrong ‘uns feel like sunny Spain is a good place to do business, which seems to have created unwanted criminal competition. Most recently, a couple of Scottish gangsters got gunned down outside a bar. Not a good look, and I wonder if the UK and Spanish police might be able to work together better to sort this problem out? That also makes sense!
Gered up
ATTRACTIONS:
They attended the closing ceremony for ‘Euros de tu nómina’ (Euros from your payroll) event.
The event, run by Banco Santander, has been on Queen Letizia’s agenda for several years.
Both the Spanish Queen and Gere gave speeches at the event. Gere and Alejandra support the Spanish charity Hogar Sí, which works with the homeless. They met at a hotel in Positano, Italy in 2014, and married four years later.
They’ve spent most of their married life in the United States, but headed to Spain for ‘its beauty, extraordinary food and generous people’.
The couple’s Madrid home is in the ultra-exclusive La Moraleja neighbourhood, home to football stars and business magnates. In February, Gere was presented an International Goya award.
KING Felipe did a spot of flying over the Mar Menor in Murcia as the area hosted Spain’s biggest aerobatic display.
‘Aire 25’ featured the San Javier-based Patrulla Aguila (Eagle Patrol) team - the Spanish equivalent of the Red Arrows - which is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
King Felipe did his air training on the old C-101 display plane during his time at San Javier between 1987
The flying monarch
and 1988 and so could not resist trying out its replacement - the new Pilatus PC-21.
The head of state, dressed in a flight suit, boarded the Pilatus, accompanied by an instructor from the academy, Commander Guzman, in a trip lasting around 40 minutes.
HOLLYWOOD royalty Richard Gere met the real thing when he bumped into Queen Letizia at a charity event in Madrid. Gere and Spanish wife Alejandra Gere moved to Madrid last year.
Queen Letizia and Richard Gere, pictured with Alejandra Silva
FLAGS OF SHAME Drunkenness backlash
IBIZA has been shamed with two black flags for pollution and mismanagement of its beaches.
Ecologists in Action hand out ‘Black flag’ status to coastal resorts for pollution, over development, gentrification and poor management of wastewater.
The Ibiza ‘black’ flag beaches are Talamanca Beach and Cala Xarraca.
Talamanca was awarded the flag due to pollution from wastewater destroying the nearby seagrass meadows.
Illegal anchoring also occurs in the area, which ploughs the meadows.
Approximately 55% of the Talamanca Bay seagrass meadow is already dead, according to the Ibiza City Council and the National Agency for the Conservation of Biodiversity.
Cala Xarraca received its black flag due to the mega-hotel being built on the beach’s doorstep.
“The project undoubtedly contributes to an unsustainable tourism model in the area, based on luxury and excessive consumption,” the report stated.
Dad tragedy
A BRITISH father-of-two has died on Menorca while go-karting with his family.
The unnamed 62-year-old reportedly suffered a heart attack at Castillo Menorca, a track near the town of Ciutadella, in front of his two children.
Emergency services were sent to the scene but were unable to save the man’s life.
The man’s wife is believed to have been staying at the family’s villa, located in Cala En Porter in the south of the popular island.
It is unclear whether the man was a Menorca resident or a tourist on holiday.
BRUSSELS is calling on Spain to address its housing crisis by increasing the supply of social and affordable homes.
According to the Bank of Spain, 40% of Spanish tenants are spending 40% of their income on rent. In comparison, the EU average is 27%.
Housing call
The EU Commission noted that the massive growth in tourism in the country and demand for temporary accommodation had reduced the availability of homes for locals.
However, it also called out Spain’s social housing shortage and slow construction as another reason for the crisis.
It is recommending the reform of land law, as well as the reduction of permit processing times for new builds and the elimination of administrative bottlenecks.
Brit honoured by king
ANGELA McGrath, the president of the Cala Nova Cancer Care charity shop in Mallorca, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King's Birthday Honours. She is the only British expat in Spain to be honoured in the latest list.
Since opening the shop in 2011, Angela and her team have touched the lives of countless cancer patients and their families.
Her perseverance and tireless work has resulted in the store raising and donating over half a mil -
By Alex Trelinski
The British Ambassador to Spain, Sir Alex Ellis, said: “The best part of the UK-Spain partnership are the people who make it better. Angela is one of those, through her dedication, compassion, and support for cancer patients and their families in Mallorca.”
“She is an example to us all and I am delighted that she has been honoured
STUCK AT HOME
THE rocketing cost of housing on the Balearic Islands means young people under 30 who want to live alone must spend 135.9% of their salary on rent.
Only 15.3% of young people between 16 and 29 live outside of their family homes according to the Spanish Youth Council’s Emancipation Observatory. This figure reflects a nationwide average demonstrating
with a British Empire Medal,” he added. Angela McGrath said: “14 years ago, I opened the
the difficulty young people across Spain are facing.
Almost half of the Balearic population under 30 do not have regular income, and even those who receive full salaries cannot afford full autonomy over their lives.
Even those in shared rentals will be spending over half of their salaries on accommodation.
The purchase of a new home would require 22.1 times the gross annual salary of a young wage earner, completely unattainable.
Superstar DJ’s hidden life
A SEMINAL photo of superstar DJ Seth Troxler sleeping on a bench at Barcelona airport and others spread on the floor at Ibiza airport are the highlight of a new book launched this week in the Balearic Islands.
In Between, by fellow DJ Bill Patrick, highlights the less glamorous unseen side of a world dance music tour.
Featuring 250 photos taken during a gruelling 10-month, 20 country, four -continent whirl alongside American Troxler, many were taken in Spain.
“Ibiza seemed the perfect place for a book party,” Patrick, 47, from New York, told the Olive Press at the Standard Hotel, in Ibiza Town.
“I lived for many years in Berlin, inspired by its creative and music side, and Ibiza has similar creative vibes,” he added.
Patrick, who has developed his pho-
Ibiza launch for amazing new photographic book on the darker unseen world of a superstar DJ
By Jon Clarke
tography career while battling cancer, took the photos between February and November 2023.
The snapshots - featuring everything from camels in Egypt to drag queens in America - offer an intimate glimpse of life on the road and an ode to friendship.
One picture shows a couple arguing on a street corner in New York during Halloween, while another has a ballerina adjusting the ribbons of her
pointes in Athens.
Patrick’s work, shot on half a dozen 35mm cameras, has been exhibited in New York, London and Budapest.
Cala Nova Cancer Care charity shop with two of my closest friends, Eileen and Anna Lisa, in remembrance of friends and family who had been touched by cancer.”
“I am so honoured to receive this award on behalf of our charity shop, which would not be what it is today without all our amazing volunteers and the support from donations we receive,” she continued.
“My dream is that one day a cure will be found to help fight this terrible disease.”
“We wanted to make a book that was the antithesis of social media,” explained Troxler at the glitzy launch this week.
He added it was shot entirely using
old fashioned film, explaining that the one time Patrick tried to use a digital camera ‘someone spilled liquid over it and it broke’.
“The world was telling him something,” he joked. The pair, who are close
A GERMAN visitor to Mallorca captured footage of drunken tourists that made her ‘want to throw up’. Filmed in S’Arenal, in one of the island’s most famous nightclubs, she recorded a man repeatedly licking the sole of his shoe, and then biting it, right in the middle of the dance floor.
“You thought you’d seen it all in Mallorca, and then this happened,” she said in the video then shared on TikTok. In the background, you hear chanting and shouting by other intoxicated tourists.
Embarrassing
Critiquing comments on the post include: ‘Germans on vacation are embarrassing,’
‘One of the reasons why I will never go to Mallorca,’ and a disturbing ‘Next to us at the table, someone urinated on the floor and another vomited.’
The incident has once again opened the debate on drunken tourism overwhelming the islands as the summer season begins.
Just last week, footage of a shirtless and visibly drunk tourist trying to kick down and wrestle a security bollard in Magaluf was shared on social media.
Another video of a tourist at S’Arenal went viral after he drank alcohol directly from his sneakers.
RUSSIAN RULES
RUSSIAN nationals transiting through Spanish airports now need a transit visa - even if they stay in the international zone.
Spain becomes the third European country, after the UK and Czech Republic, to impose such a rule.
The move responds to growing concerns over illegal migration via transit routes, particularly from high-risk countries like Syria and Iran. The new regulation may disrupt travel to Latin America, a popular destination for Russians.
It’s part of wider EU efforts to tighten border controls following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and the resulting restrictions on Russian mobility.
No resolution
friends, regularly visit Ibiza, where Troxler has over a dozen slots booked in this summer, including seminal headlining shows at Pacha and Amnesia.
He is also playing in Mallorca and Barcelona in August and Madrid in October.
“Seth is a dynamo with so much energy,” Patrick told the Olive Press. “I spent a year on tour with him taking these pics - and that’s why he’s got his name on the book. I’m top billing though.”
He continued: “It is incredibly hard work DJ’ing - and for most jobbing, working class DJs, it’s dealing with economy class and cheap hotels - after a dozen years it takes it out of you … and these photos hopefully show that.”
SPAIN received the second-highest number of asylum applications in the EU last year, with a staggering 1 million requests across the bloc. However, it’s also the country with the highest rejection rate. Only 18.5% of Spain's 167,000 applicants were granted asylum, marking a modest 6.27% rise from 2023. Meanwhile, just 6.6% gained refugee status. As of 2024, over 240,000 cases remain unresolved, with many applicants stuck in limbo.
While efforts to speed up decisions are underway, the Spanish Commission for Refugee Aid (CEAR) warns the impact remains limited, as delays persist.
lion euros to various cancer charities in Mallorca.
Mallorca charity worker gets BEM in honours list
DESERVED: Angela was only expat in Spain to feature on the honours list
DJS: The duo talked about life on the music scene
Cats and dogs
SPAIN'S Iberian wolf population is dwindling according to a government census. Figures compiled by the Ministry for Ecological Transition suggest that the number of wolves has been surpassed by the Iberian lynx, which was in danger of extinction two decades ago.
Environment secretary, Hugo Moran, confirmed the top line details but did not specify exact numbers.
June 20thJuly 4th 2025
The previous census between 2012 and 2014 showed around 2,500 wolves grouped into 297 packs.
The latest lynx numbers from 2024 came in at 2,401 including the birth of 844 cubs last year..
“All administrations have introduced measures to reintroduce the lynx and we must reflect on why that does not happen to the wolf, especially if they provide the same kind of service to the ecosystem,” said Moran.
“Let's be aware that we are facing the same problem. We cannot choose to protect only a percentage of nature. It must be protected as a whole,” he added.
HOTTING UP
By Walter Finch
SPAIN has experienced a blistering and unprecedented start to the summer, with record-breaking temperatures in the south sending thermometers soaring above 40C across multiple provinces.
Incredibly, by June 8, Sevilla Airport had already registered four days above 40C – more than in the entire month of June during any previous year since records began in 1951.
Number of days in Spain over 40C by start of June in 2025 beats all previous years
To put that into context: no other year on record has seen more than two days above 40C in Sevilla before the second week of June.
In fact, the searing early heat has beaten the number of extreme days compared to all
other years combined for the same period by 125%, according to provisional data released by AEMET, Spain’s national weather agency. It goes some way to dispelling the claims that ‘Spain is always hot in the summer’, and follows what meteorologists are calling an ‘absolutely ex-
Sea meadows in trouble
POSIDONIA oceanica, the vital seagrass often called the ‘green lung’ of the Mediterranean, is in serious trouble, warn scientists.
A new study reveals the underwater meadows of Posidonia – essential for absorbing carbon and supporting marine life – are being decimated by invasive Asian algae and human activity.
Research by the Mediterranean Classroom Foundation (FAMM) shows the meadows along Malaga, Granada, and Almeria are in critical condition, with Posidonia being overtaken by the aggressive R. okamurae
ceptional’ heat episode.
On Sunday June 8, the mercury hit 42.9C in Moron de la Frontera, just south-east of Sevilla, with Montoro in Cordoba not far behind at 42.7C.
Other towns in Sevilla province scorched past the 42C mark too, including Carmona (42.7C), Fuentes de Andalucía (42.6C),
algae. The situation is especially dire in Malaga, where the mead ows are rapidly disappearing. Experts say rising sea temperatures, fishing practices, and pollution are all contributing to the destruction. Scientists urge immediate action to preserve these ‘submerged forests,’ which play a crucial role in both cli mate change mitigation and marine biodiversity. The countdown to save Posidonia is now underway.
and the airport itself, which also recorded 42.6C. Around 40 AEMET weather stations across the country hit or surpassed 40C on Sunday
The agency confirmed that these are the earliest temperatures over 42C ever recorded in Sevilla, beating the previous early-June high set on June 12, 2012.
24 JULY
CONGRESS CENTER TRAVIS
26 JULY
CONGRESS CENTER ROBERT PLANT PRESENTS SAVING GRACE FEATURING SUZI DIAN
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OPINION
Mallorca’s breaking point?
ANGRY chants and swelling crowds in Placa d’Espanya might seem like theatrics to some. But to the people of Mallorca they are a cry for survival. The anger simmering across Spain’s tourist hotspots is not new. From Mallorca and Ibiza to Barcelona, protestors are sending a message as clear as the turquoise waters they once proudly showed the world: tourism, unchecked and unregulated, is tearing our communities apart.
The numbers are dizzying. Spain welcomed 94 million foreign visitors in 2024, and 2025 looks set to eclipse that. But what looks like a record-breaking year for the tourism industry is a breaking point for many locals. Rents in Palma have tripled in a decade. Food bank queues grow while luxury developments rise.
Teachers, nurses, and service workers commute for hours - not because they want to, but because they can no longer afford to live where they work. This isn’t just about economics. It’s about identity, sustainability, and the right to live with dignity in the place you call home.
And yet, policymakers seem to be trapped in a dangerous delusion - that more tourists mean more prosperity. But at what cost? When locals are evicted for short-term rentals, when tap water runs low during peak summer, when ancient streets become nightclubs for drunken weekenders - is that prosperity, or pillage?
Let’s be honest: tourism has long been one of Spain’s economic pillars. It funds jobs, infrastructure, and public services. But like any foundation, it must be maintained - not exploited until it collapses. The current model isn’t sustainable. It benefits developers and foreign investors while pushing locals into the margins.
What’s happening in Mallorca isn’t ‘anti-tourist.’ It’s anti-exploitation. It’s anti-neglect. It’s a demand for balance.
Mallorca’s message is simple: reform the tourism model or face a rising tide of unrest.
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
How crooks are stealing Spanish villas with forged powers of attorney and sinister late night threats
The Olive Press has revealed the astonishing cases of two foreigners, a Swede and an American, who have had their Costa del Sol properties stolen from them using forged power of attorney documents created in South America. These twin cases highlight a disturbing and growing international fraud network targeting foreign homeowners in Spain, using fake legal documents created thousands of kilometres away and inexplicably accepted by notaries and land registrars in Spain.
ELIZABETH, an American citizen and long-term resident in Spain, purchased her €2.5 million five-bedroom villa in 2012.
Her dream was to set up a peaceful yoga retreat on the Costa del Sol. But in August 2023, while she was attending a retreat in Indonesia, that dream turned into a night-
By Samantha Mythen
mare.
“I woke up at five in the morning to my phone ringing off the hook,” she recalls. Her house-sitting friend had just experienced a violent break-in.
FORGED: An example of the faked papers used
A group of men entered the villa, smashing through doors and disabling alarms. They claimed they had a valid rental contract and were acting under the authority of the new ‘owner’.
“I hadn’t sold the house. I hadn’t even thought of it,” Elizabeth explained to the Olive Press this month. “I was thousands of miles away.”
When police arrived, the intruders presented documents and an ID card – not of Elizabeth, but of a Mexican woman named ‘Rosa Elvia’.
Thankfully the police were sceptical and sent them away with two of the men later arrested for breaking into the same home.
But it has done anything but calm Elizabeth’s nerves as she still
ROYALTY, ROMANCE AND SCOTS
Fact, folklore, and Spain’s enduring nickname for foreigners
HAVE you ever heard the term, ‘ guiris ’?
It’s a slang term commonly used in Spain, and it often refers to foreigners. It's frequently applied to tourists and residents from northern European countries, including those of Anglo-Saxon descent.
While some perceive the term as mildly pejorative, it's often used descriptively without malicious intent.
Spanish people know very well that they need us. (Look around – apart from tourism, is there any other economic activity going on?) But they have a (mildly) pejorative word for us. They call us guiris
But what about the origin of the word?
By Michael Coy
which had historically forbidden women from inheriting the Spanish crown. Isabella's reign, spanning 35 years, was undeniably tumultuous. From the outset, her legitimacy was challenged by the Carlists, a conservative faction who supported her uncle, Don Carlos, and preferred a male successor. This led to prolonged civil wars, particularly in the Basque region, and her time in power was indeed sullied by endless uprisings and political plots.
One popular, intriguing, and somewhat romanticised story links the term to a fascinating period in Spanish history and one of its most controversial queens. Between 1833 and 1868, Spain was ruled by Queen Isabella II. She ascended the throne at the tender age of three, following a pivotal decision by her father, King Ferdinand VII. Just before her birth, Ferdinand issued the Pragmatic Sanction in 1830, a decree that abolished the Salic Law,
In September 1868, a naval mutiny erupted in Cadiz – a city with a long history of revolutionary fervour. The disturbance quickly spread, leading to the Glorious Revolution ( La Gloriosa ). Isabella, finding Sevilla too close to the burgeoning unrest, fled to France. She initially hoped to return once stability was restored, but her deep unpopularity ultimately prevented her restoration. To pave the way for her son, Alfonso, to eventually claim the throne, Isabella formally abdicated. This occurred on June 25, 1870, when she renounced her personal claims to the Spanish crown while living in exile in Paris. Alfonso indeed became king, returning to Spain in 1874 to begin his reign as Alfonso XII. Though she returned briefly to Spain years later, Isabella never truly settled back in her homeland. Paris remained her primary residence until her death in 1904, at the age of 73.
Now, where does the ‘ guiri ’ explanation fit into this royal tale? According to a captivating, albeit widely considered to be a
means she can neither move, nor sell the property.
Elizabeth has since tried to trace Rosa’s identity and believes she doesn’t exist. The passport and documents presented, she claims, were entirely fabricated.
The roots of the fraud go back to 2018, according to Elizabeth’s lawyer, Carmen Herrera, based in Fuengirola.
That year, a forged power of attorney (POA) was created in Mexico. It included a fake passport for Elizabeth, identifying her as a Colombian national living in Mexico City.
With that fraudulent POA, a fake private purchase contract was drawn up and signed by a notary in Mexico, then apostilled – giving it an air of international legality.
The forged documents sat dormant until July 2023, when they were used to register the supposed sale at a land registry office in Marbella.
“On the day I supposedly sold my home, I
folk etymology, the story goes that as a young woman, Isabella liked men. A lot. Rumours of her numerous romantic liaisons were prevalent throughout her reign, adding to her controversial public image. Her preferred ‘type’, the legend whispers, was a tall, athletic Scot. As queen, she had considerable leeway in staffing her palace and
reportedly hand-picked a corps of young Scottish bodyguards. Some even suggest these men may have provided more than just security, perhaps engaging in romantic or even sexual favours given Isabella’s known inclinations and her unhappy marriage. The queen also chose to reside in Sevilla, rather than the political hub of Madrid, and desired a distinctive uniform for her personal guards. Counsellors, wary of her unpopularity and fearing that ostentatious foreign bodyguards might provoke further unrest, advised against it. Isabella, however, was insistent on a unique identifier: a metal belt-buckle for each of her Scottish guards. She initially wanted it to read: “ Guardia Imperial de la Reina Isabella ” (Queen Isabella’s
CHILD QUEEN: Isabella is said to have grown up to favour Scots soldiers
was flying to London,” Elizabeth said. “I never saw a cent.”
Even more shocking, she says, is that no one in the Spanish legal system bothered to verify her identity.
“You can Google me. I’m American. I live in Spain. I’ve never even been to Colombia,” she said. “How could the registrar accept this without checking?”
According to Spanish property law, a notary must verify the authenticity of any POA used in a property transaction. If the POA comes from outside Spain, it must have a ‘Hague Apostille’ or equivalent legalisation which proves authenticity. But according to the Ol-
Imperial Guard). When it was pointed out that this was far too much text for a belt buckle, she supposedly agreed to reduce it to the initialism ‘Gu.I.R.I.’ The buckles were then made and issued. One can easily imagine a handsome, well-paid, and well-dressed Scot, his unique buckle on full display, strolling along a bustling street like Calle Sierpes in Sevilla during the 1850s. And just as easily, one can picture a group of local Sevillanos, perhaps sipping manzanilla on a cafe terrace, observing this foreign presence. No doubt, one might have turned to his friends and quipped: “Look, lads – it’s one of her ‘ guiris ’.”
Thus, this captivating narrative suggests, a slang term was born.
IN THE KNOW
Incisive and trust-worthy reporting sees Olive Press on UK national news and in a string of global tabloids
AFTER two decades of investigating the case of missing Madeleine McCann few people know more about it than Olive Press editor Jon Clarke.
His recent trip to Portugal is a case in point: Arriving a full day before any rivals he was already up to speed by the time the local PJ force started a string of detailed searches around Praia da Luz, where the toddler went missing in 2007.
ive Press’ regular property columnist Mark Stucklin, something clearly went wrong.
“In this case, it must have been a crooked or negligent notary who didn’t do proper due diligence,” Stucklin said. “There’s no reason these documents should have been accepted without scrutiny.”
Elizabeth’s lawyer Herrera agrees. Talking exclusively to the Olive Press this week, she explained: “They didn’t do their job properly.
The notary, the registrar – someone let this through, and that failure enabled a crime.”
When Elizabeth emailed the Mexican notary listed on the sale, they claimed to know nothing about it. She even looked up the buyer’s listed address in Mexico City.
“
“It was a barrio of tin-roofed homes,” she said. “These aren’t even real houses. How could someone from there afford a luxury villa in Marbella?”
Once the fraudulent sale was registered, the criminals moved quickly. Just a month later, they attempted to physically take possession of Elizabeth’s home.
“They’ve sent young men with no legal residency to break in, intimidate, and harass anyone inside,” Herrera said.
Electrical systems were burned out, alarms disabled, and neighbours frightened. Two of the intruders have already been sentenced to prison for breaking and entering.
building’s community administrator to falsely claim ownership.
“They acted innocent, like they didn’t understand what was going on,” Sara said. “They even tried to convince my neighbours they were the real victims.”
Property lawyer Diego Echavarria, of Fairway Lawyers, in Marbella, said the use of forged legal documents is becoming more common, particularly with AI making forgeries more realistic and easier to produce.
He said he has heard of at least three, while estate agent Adam Neale, of Terra Meridiana, in Estepona, said he had heard of another multi-million fraud of a plot in Sotogrande.
“It’s very easy now to create something that looks official,” explained Echavarria. “Notaries can be fooled – but they should still verify carefully.
“ ‘I’m scared. I can’t pay the bills, I can’t fix the damage’
The police have intervened, and the courts have granted Elizabeth a precautionary measure preventing further sale or transfer of the property until the case is resolved. But her home remains at risk.
“I’m scared. I can’t pay the bills, I can’t fix the damage. The house is falling apart,”
Elizabeth told the Olive Press.
“It’s constantly devaluing. I feel trapped. After this, I will never buy property in Spain again.”
Her case eerily follows that of Sara, a Swedish environmental consultant featured on the Olive Press front page last month.
Her Mijas apartment was stolen using a forged Colombian POA and men - posing as victims of fraud - showed up at her door, tried to evict her, and even contacted her
Antonio Flores, another lawyer on the Costa del Sol at Lawbrid, offered a clear warning: “If someone walks in off the street with a foreign POA and wants to sell a home, a notary should treat that with extreme suspicion. This can happen to any homeowner.”
The European Union is currently rolling out a new system requiring public documents to include a QR code for instant authenticity checks.
But it’s not fully operational across all member states, and these latest cases prove that current safeguards aren’t enough.
“We need to know who is responsible for letting this fraud happen,” Elizabeth asked this week. “Was it the notary in Mexico? The registrar in Marbella? Who failed to check even the most basic information?”
As authorities investigate and court proceedings continue, Elizabeth and Sara are left in legal limbo – two victims among what may be many more, in a system vulnerable to exploitation.
And as this international crime wave spreads, one thing is clear – unless the legal infrastructure for property transactions is reformed, and quickly, Spain’s reputation as a safe place to buy a home could be at serious risk.
Filing his first exclusive dispatch for the Olive Press within an hour of the police arriving, alongside their counterparts from Germany, it was the start of a series of incisive reports earlier this month.
And for anyone interested in the case in the UK or Germany, Jon appeared various times on numerous national TV bulletins explaining the moves. Apart from appearing on ITV’s regular daily news bulletins, he appeared on both Channel 5 news and even RTL national news in Germany. Best of all was the grilling he received from former shadow chancellor Ed Balls and Susanna Reid live on Good Morning Britain (GMB) And, as he reported - with a world exclusive in the Olive Press - police found bone fragments and two guns at the scene, one which might have been used by prime suspect Christian Brueckner. The story was followed up by dozens of newspapers around the world, including the Sun , New York Post and Bild It is a classic example of our journalists working doggedly pursuing stories wherever they may be.
We lead others follow
But that is our DNA… to get out digging to understand the news and deliver it to our readers online as soon as possible, fact-checked and analysed.
In particular looking at breaking stories in Spain that have gone global and viral over the last few decades.
Whether than be the recent energy crisis to the Covid pandemic, or from the Valencia floods to the Catalan referendum riots. We try to get there first and give you the best possible analysis in English.
As our subscriber base continues to grow, the Olive Press is able to invest further into quality journalism and provide our readers with the latest first-hand details.
If you’d like to read the Olive Press daily - even hourly - and get the news as it breaks, pls subscribe to our website at www.theolivepress.es or scan the QR code below.
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No OP, No comment.
CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Footage of the men attempting to break into Elizabeth’s house
EMAIL US ON SALES@ THEOLIVEPRESS.ES
A NEW national study has revealed some surprising insights into Spain's bedroom habits – and some provinces are certainly more active than others!
According to the research by sexual health experts Diversual, Teruel takes the crown as the most sexually active province in Spain, with residents get-
Randy Spain
ting frisky an average of 8.10 days per month. Close behind is Jaen, with 8.06 days per month, making it the second most active in the country. Other high scorers include Caceres (8.01 days), Ciudad Real (7.88 days), and Avila (7.79 days). Meanwhile, Girona is at the bottom of the list, with just five days of activity per month, making it the least sexually active province.
The study was based on responses from nearly 5,000 people across Spain.
Needless death
TWO doctors have been convicted of reckless homicide after an eight-year-old boy died from peritonitis in 2020.
The youngster named Aitor went to the ER five times in four days at the Petrer Health Centre and Elda General Hospital - both in Alicante province.
Alicante's Criminal Court found the medics to be grossly negligent and guilty of malpractice.
The Petrer health centre doctor was given a one-year jail term and banned from practising medicine for three
Medics convicted after ‘failing’ boy patient who died
By Alex Trelinski Health Ministry.
years.
The pediatrician at Elda General Hospital received a twoyear prison sentence and a six-month ban.
The Alicante judge also awarded compensation worth around €145,000 to Aitor's relatives which will be paid by insurers Berkshire Hathaway on behalf of the Valencian
DINING TIPS
A CONTROVERSIAL Spanish nutritionist is causing a stir by telling her fellow countrymen to ditch their late-night dinners and eat before 7pm instead. Maria del Mar Molina, author of Dieta Solar (Solar Diet), is flying in the face of centuries of Spanish tradition, where dinner often starts at 10pm.
7 Commuters’ dormitory area (8)
8 Hard precipitation (4)
9 Demolish (4,4)
10 Fourth Gospel (4)
11 Dentist’s command (5)
13 Small apartments (7)
15 Bond, in 2000 (7)
16 --- belly (traveller’s problem) (5)
18 Gag (4)
19 Ashen kid, disturbed, has a close shave (8)
21 Legal instrument (4)
22 Does well (8)
1 Curious report about precedent setter (8,5)
2 Contented sound (4)
3 Abominate (5)
4 Great attractions (7)
5 Central character in 1 Down (3,5)
6 How to eat a 12-inch sub (4,4,5)
12 They might have done it (8)
14 Low string player (7)
17 Where Leonardo was born (5)
20 Garden tools (4)
All solutions are on page 14
The verdicts and sentences can be appealed.
Aitor died in October 2020 as a result of complications arising from acute appendicitis
that, according to the court, were not detected and that his death could have been avoided if the medical response had
She insists eating earlier is the key to better health, claiming it helps with intermittent fasting and supports natural body rhythms. Molina, a qualified expert in dietetics and nutrition, argues that latenight feasts disrupt the body’s processes and can lead to health issues. Her advice includes swapping processed foods for meat, fish, and eggs, and getting plenty of sunlight for a better metabolism.
been different.
Errors, the court said, included not taking ultrasound and blood tests in addition to measuring blood pressure and his heart during a series of ER visits. The court ruling stated: “The doctors
did not diagnose acute appendicitis in the minor, which led to an infection in the digestive tract originating in the cecum and which evolved into peritonitis with complications that led to his death.”
The trial heard from forensic doctors and also an independent medical expert.
Another witness told the court what she saw in the Elda Hospital ER.
“When I arrived I saw the boy in a wheelchair, who was writhing in pain. The child was sick, sick, he was holding his abdomen and complaining,” she continued.
SWORN TRANSLATION
We provide official translations with legal validity, carried out by sworn translators
TRANSLATION
We can translate any kind of document: touristic, websites, medical etc
INTERPRETING SERVICE
Liaison, consecutive, simultaneous and whisper interpreting
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MALPRACTICE: at Elda General Hospital
LA CULTURA
November 29thDecember 12th 2023
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BULLION TR VE
€17 billion sunken treasure ship begins to reveal its secrets
By Dilip Kuner
THE world's richest shipwreck – rumoured to be loaded with €17 BILLION in gold and jewels – is finally starting to give up its secrets.
Marine archaeologists and the Colombian Navy have been studying the sunken remains of what is now confirmed to be the 18th-century Spanish galleon, the San Jose.
Their work has not only confirmed the ship’s identity but is now beginning to unveil some of its most sought-after relics.
The San Jose was a colossal treasure ship, stretching 150 feet from bow to stern, that was hauling looted riches from South America on behalf of the Spanish Navy.
Historical records paint a dramatic picture of its demise in 1708, when it was
blasted to the seabed during a fierce bat tle in the War of the Spanish Succession.
The Colombian government first located the San Jose off its northern coast in 2015, sparking a complicated ‘custody battle’ over who rightfully owns the mind-boggling treasure, with Spain stak-
ing a claim.
Now, authorities have begun poring over a trove of high-resolution digital images captured by remotely operated submarines, offering the clearest glimpse yet at the legendary shipwreck's contents. These new highres images show three main areas of coins on board
the ship. These pieces were minted in 1707 in Lima, the modern capital of Peru. This finding perfectly matches historical records.
“The San Jose Galleon is the only ship that matches these characteristics,” stated study author Daniela Vargas Ariza, from the Escuela Naval de Cadetes Almirante Padilla and Instituto Colombiano de Antropología e Historia.
Vargas Ariza added that ‘coins are crucial artefacts for dating and understanding material culture, particularly in shipwreck contexts. Hand-struck, irregularly shaped coins – known as cobs in English and macuquinas in Spanish – served as the primary currency in the Americas for more than two centuries’.
The study did not disclose precise figures for the amount of treasure or other artefacts still aboard, but the state-led investigation continues.
Cash injection
NETFLIX will invest €1 billion in Spanish productions over the next four years.
The firm’s co-CEO Ted Sarandos made the pledge during a visit to its 22,000 m2 Tres Cantos production hub north of Madrid.
Sarandos was in Spain to celebrate the company’s 10th year of making tv shows and films in the country.
The Netflix executive was joined at Tres Cantos by Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez.
Sanchez said: “Spain wel comes and appreciates your presence and your firm commitment to the development of a sector as vibrant and
Streaming giant boosts Spanish arm to mark 10 years in Spain
By Alex Trelinski
as important for the Spanish economy as the audiovisual industry.
“When Netflix arrived in our country a decade ago, I think it not only changed the way users watched movies and series. But I think it changed something much more profound, such as the way in which the world viewed our country,” Sanchez added.
Ted Sarandos said: “We have filmed in more than 200 cities and towns in Spain, and there are still wonderful places to discover.”
He said that Netflix had contributed to creating more than 20,000 jobs in the Spanish audiovisual industry.
“The last 10 years have been extraordinary and we look forward to the next 10 years... +and more,” he said.
THEN AND NOW: The San Jose’s last battle and her remains today
LATEST IMAGES: Confirm the wreck’s identity
LA CULTURA
November 29thDecember 12th 2023
WHEN TIME TEAM CAME
CHANNEL 4’S Time Team packed their trowels and digging gear to swap soggy British fields for the sundrenched Spanish coast in January 2000.
To celebrate the new millennium, Sir Tony Robinson - he of Baldric fame - and his fearless archaeological squad set their sights on Denia, with its rich, complex history. They unearthed some fascinating secrets, particularly about its powerful Islamic past at the turn of the previous millennium.
Tony, the ever-enthusiastic presenter, along with heavyweights like the late Mick Aston (the one with the colourful jumpers), ‘geophys wizard’ John Gater, landscape archaeologist Stewart Ainsworth and strategist Carenza Lewis, had teamed up with local expert Josep Gisbert to investigate Denia’s past.
But the town, with its mix of Islamic, Roman, and medieval influences, presented a new challenge.
This was a chance to dive into a site that was, a thousand years ago, a thriving Is lamic outpost in medieval Europe.
Channel 4 archaeologists dug into the town’s 2,000 year old history to discover Denia’s buried past
By Dilip Kuner
was crystal clear: expose the hidden stories beneath Denia’s bustling streets, especially its crucial Islamic period.
The team’s main focus was the Islamic era, when it flourished as a port and cultural centre.
They were particularly hoping to find Islamic pottery and burial sites, eager to understand this sophisticated period of Spanish history.
The town’s history stretches back over two millennia. From ancient ports to mighty fortresses, every archaeological layer promised a clue.
For the Time Team, their mission
Teaming up with local Spanish experts, the crew, including resident digger Phil Harding with his trusty trowel, began their search near Denia Castle.
This imposing fortress, though later Christianised, had strong Moorish origins, acting as the heart of the Taifa of Denia, a powerful independent Muslim state.
The dig swiftly uncovered a wealth of glazed Moorish pottery shards – indicating a sophisticated culture – along with metal tools,
coins, and the remnants of stone walls and intricate water channels near the castle.
These finds viv idly showed how the Moors were masters of adapting the land, creating incredibly productive agricultural terraces –
many of which are still visible today.
These ingenious systems were a testament to advanced Islamic engineering, allowing them to farm the rugged hills around Denia with incredible efficiency. But it wasn’t just about the digs. Tony Robinson himself got hands-on, joining efforts to recreate authentic Islamic medieval cuisine.
With the help of a local Moroccan chef, he cooked up ancient recipes to taste history first hand, giving viewers
a real flavour of what life was like in Denia a thousand years ago. While the primary focus was on Denia’s Islamic power, the team also encountered tantalising glimpses of its even older past.
Beneath the Moorish layers, they also found fragments of Roman pottery, roof tiles, and even evidence of Roman walls. And the real showstopper, a stunning, beautifully preserved Roman mosaic.
This incredible find, believed to be from a wealthy Roman villa
and possibly depicting mythological sea creatures or gods, hinted at the wealth and sophistication of earlier Roman inhabitants.
It served as a powerful reminder that Denia had been a significant settlement across multiple epochs.
What made Denia so special, as Tony Robinson pointed out, was its identity as a cultural melting pot.
The blend of those earlier Roman finds alongside the extensive Moorish irrigation systems and structures was striking.
It painted a vivid picture of a town that had always been a fantastic mix of different cultures, each
adding something unique to Denia’s vibrant identity before its Christianisation in 1242.
And it could be argued this continues to this day, with the more recent influx of Northern European expats Time Team’s Denia adventure might have been a short visit (famously, as Tony used to say, ‘We have just three days to find out’), but its impact has been huge.
The episode put Denia’s incredible history, especially its rich Islamic period, on the world map.
Pride
It sparked more archaeological research and drew in tourists keen to explore sites like the majestic Castillo de Denia and the stunning Cova Tallada caves.
For the locals, the dig was a massive source of pride.
It not only showcased their town’s layered heritage but also hammered home the importance of preserving their history. Denia’s ancient roots, from its Roman beginnings through its powerful Islamic era and beyond, still shape the charming town you see today.
Denia might be famous for its beaches and Med charm, but Time Team proved it’s much more than a holiday spot.
INSEPARABLE: Tony Robinson with Mick Aston and above on a Denia beach, and a skeleton uncovered by the team
LOCATION: The dig happened at the foot of Denia Castle
THE SITE: Viewed from the castle walls, the Time Team at work with Spanish colleagues ON DISPLAY:
BUSINESS
Carrefour expansion
SUPERMARKET chain Carrefour will open 100 new stores in Spain this year, creating 700 jobs.
The announcement comes weeks after its fellow French rival Alcampo said it was cutting 580 posts and closing 25 outlets in the country.
Carrefour's expansion will focus primarily on its smaller format Carrefour Express stores rather than hypermarkets, with 46 openings so far this year.
The chain has opened 691 stores in Spain since 2019, bringing its total to over 1,600 outlets and representing an investment of €150 million.
The added push is Carrefour’s response to the growing pressure from regional supermarket chains and the dominance of Mercadona, which has 1,614 outlets.
Despite all the expansion, Carrefour’s market share has remained stagnant at 9.8%, well behind Mercadona’s 26.6%.
THE number of people in Spain at risk of poverty or social exclusion has fallen in the last decade.
However major concerns remain over children and affordable housing.
The annual poverty report by EAPN-ES, The Network in the fight against Poverty and Social Exclusion in Spain says there are 12.5 million people at riskthe lowest figure since 2014.
It added that 4.1 million people live in severe poverty based on households of monthly incomes of less than €644.
The EAPN-ES has also slammed an ‘alarming’ child poverty rate of 2.3 million which is the highest in the European Union.
It said the Spanish welfare state prevented 11.1 million people from falling into poverty in 2024.
The figures reflect that at least a quarter of the popu-
LESS RISK
Poverty falls in Spain - but at a price, reveals new report
By Alex Trelinski
lation has remained at risk of poverty or social exclusion in the last decade.
The report highlights that the risk of poverty and social exclusion has been reduced in the last year from 26.5% to 25.8% of the population.
The number of people in severe poverty is actually a percentage point more than in 2008.
MARINAS along the Costa del Sol are gearing up for their busiest summer ever, with some ports completely sold out.
Bookings are soaring, with occupancy rates between 85% and 100%, driven largely by British and French yacht owners.
Manuel Raigon, president of Marinas de Andalucía, said the surge reflects the region’s growing popularity as a nautical hotspot. Spanish, British, French, and German boat
Three out of 10 people in households with children are at risk of poverty or social exclusion. In single-parent households
Riding the wave
owners are flocking to the coast, with increasing numbers from Italy, Portugal, and beyond. The rise in boat rentals, especially among younger tourists, is a major factor.
Marinas are bracing for up to 40 boats a day and are boosting staff to meet the demand.
more than half are at risk of poverty - 50.3% - while big families stand at 49.1%.
Access to housing is a serious issue with spending on property accounting for a third of the income of people deemed at risk of poverty.
They have just €333 left on average after paying rent, which rises to €370 for mortgage holders.
Carlos Susias, the head of EAPN-ES said: “We have to look at what is happening with housing, because it is an element that is causing impoverishment of families that theoretically should not be in a situation of poverty.”
The EAPN-ES has also called for urgent measures to counter child poverty, similar to those in Bulgaria, Greece or Romania which have reduced rates in the last decade.
Social security will provide
IMAGINE if the social security administration of Spain hired a travel agency to offer its ‘retirement experience’ as a travel destination. What might their travel brochure look like?
Name: “All-inclusive Retirement Resort” or “Set-it-and-forget-it Retirement Plan”
Slogan: “Relax, we’ve got you covered!”
It appears to have worked:
The percentage of Spanish retirees who rely on social security payments for 50% or more of their income is much higher than in the US or the UK:
What other features might Spain’s retirement vacation package highlight? First and foremost, that public healthcare is included. However, it should also mention what the trip does not include: neither long-term sustainability (due to its growing costs) nor a strong private pension sector.
The social security administrator of United States would likely advertise a different ‘retirement experience’:
Name: “Second Act Ski Package”
Slogan: “Our Ski Lift takes you only as high as your contributions”
For high earners who contributed consistently throughout their lifetime, the maximum monthly pension is greater than the maximum in Spain or the UK. Those skiers get
taken to the top of the ski slope. Yet each year only 6% of workers contributing to U.S. social security reach the top income level and not all maintain that level of earnings long enough to qualify for the maximum benefit. Thus, the actual percentage of retirees collecting the top-tier benefit is significantly less than 6%.
In retirement, most Americans need to supplement their social security payments from other sources. That is why several additional retirement financing vehicles are widely used (e.g., multiple types of 401(k)s and IRAs).
What happens if an American retires in Spain? Does their ski package go downhill, and not in a good way?
The news is good: the US social security system considers Spain an approved country, so their payments should continue without interruption. In addition, an American who worked in both countries but doesn’t qualify for benefits in one, can combine their work history to qualify. Also, U.S. citizens working in Spain may be exempt from paying into Spain’s social security system for up to five years, if covered by U.S. social security.
And the news keeps getting better. From 1983 until early this year, U.S. social security payments were reduced for Americans who also received social security from Spain -- or any another country. It was called the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). Fortunately, for Americans in Spain who might fit that category, the WEP was completely repealed in 2025.
The “retirement experience” offered by the travel agency for the social security administrator of the UK would look very different from that of either Spain or the US:
Name: “Golden Years Bus Tour” Slogan: “The Carbon-Copy Coach”
The UK brochure might also mention that you can count on flat-rate, reliable payments that are adjusted upward annually. However, the bus only travels so far, pensioners typically supplement this income to arrive at their monthly budget destination.
Taxing victory
CARLOS Alcaraz's recent French Open final win over Jannik
brought joy to Spain’s tax coffers with a
The 22-year-old from El Palmar, Murcia not just successfully defended his title but received prize money of €2.5 million. It means the tennis sensation has to cough up state and regional personal income tax known as IRPF. Since the player is still officially domiciled in his family’s El Palmar property, he is liable to pay 46% to the Murcia government and the Tax Authority. Experts said that if he lived elsewhere like in Madrid, that figure would inch down to around 45%.
What happens if a UK citizen retires in Spain? Does the tour continue but with flamenco playing on the bus radio?
Yes, the tour can continue on its way. UK state pensions can be received in Spain. And you should also be entitled to public healthcare in Spain paid for by the UK if you receive a UK state pension. The road may or may not be smooth, though, as it relates to receiving private pensions. Some UK providers have their own post-Brexit restrictions and may not accept EU-based addresses for new accounts or services.
Lastly, the tour bus does not simply breeze past the border like it once would have. Those
who were legally living in Spain before December 31, 2020, may have secured residency rights under the Withdrawal Agreement, but they must prove it. The most common immigration option for other retirees is the non-lucrative visa, which is designed for people with sufficient income who don’t plan to work in Spain.
Americans and Brits may argue about coffee vs. tea, football vs. soccer, and who drives worse. But they can agree on one thing: Spain is a great place in which to retire.
Sinner
€1.1 million boost.
FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL
SMART FUNERAL CHOICES
WE understand that there may be cheaper funeral plans available elsewhere. However, we encourage you to ask potential providers the following important questions to ensure you are making a well-informed decision:
1. Does the plan include IVA (Value Added Tax)?
Unlike some countries where funeral services are tax-exempt, in Spain, IVA (Im-
November 29thDecember 12th 2023
LOOKING FOR MORE TRAVEL STORIES?
Essential questions to ask before choosing a funeral plan in Spain Our mission is to make the process of planning a funeral, in Spain, as easy and stress-free as possible. We are committed to providing affordable funeral plans with the highest quality of care and support.
puesto sobre el Valor Añadido)—equivalent to VAT—is often applied to various components of a funeral service. This can significantly affect the final cost. Ensure you clar ify whether the quoted price includes IVA or if it will be added separately, as this could mean an unexpected 21% increase in cer tain cases.
2. Is the price fixed permanently, or is it subject to inflation-based increases?
Some funeral plans lock in the price at to day’s rates, protecting you from future inflation. Others may have clauses allowing periodic adjustments based on rising costs. Ask whether the plan is guaranteed to remain fixed or if there’s a possibility of future price increases, which can undermine the financial predictability you’re seeking.
4. What
the total interest if you choose to spread the cost over time?
Our team of experienced professionals will be there to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the entire process.
Many providers allow you to pay in installments, but this often comes with interest or administrative fees. Request a clear breakdown of the total amount payable, including how much of that is interest. A low monthly rate can sometimes mask a much higher overall cost.
3. If you pre-pay, are your funds protected in a trust?
A key element of financial security in prepaid funeral plans is whether your money is placed in a legally protected trust or insurance-backed fund. This ensures that your funds are safeguarded and only used
5. Will the plan cover you if you pass away in another part of Spain or even another country?
Some funeral plans are regional, while others offer national or international coverage.
If you travel frequently or might relocate, it’s important to ask whether the plan covers repatriation or transportation within Spain—or even back to your home country. Limited geographic coverage could result in unexpected out-of-pocket expenses for your family.
6. Do they provide Englishspeaking assistance at the point of contact?
In difficult times, communication is crucial. While many funeral providers in Spain advertise English-speaking staff, that may only apply during office hours. Confirm whether emergency or after-hours assistance is also available in English, particularly if your next of kin do not speak Spanish. Lack of immediate translation support can make a stressful time even harder.
FOOD, DRINK & TRAVEL
SPAIN is among four EU countries opposing new European Commission proposals aimed at air passenger rights.
The changes, approved by EU transport ministers, would allow airlines to charge for cabin bags beyond a free, under-seat item (40x30x15 cm), and impose fees for seat reservations for companions of pas
Rights weakened
sengers with reduced mobility.
Spain, Germany, Estonia, and Portugal voted against the plans, which also tighten compensation rules for flight delays. Passengers on short flights (under 3,500
Kitchen wars
Madrid eatery challenges for title of
By Dilip Kuner World’s Oldest Restaurant
FOR years
has proudly held the Guinness World Record for being the planet’s oldest restaurant - but now it is
being challenged. Founded in 1725, this culinary icon – a favourite of literary giants like Ernest Hemingway –celebrated 300 years of serving
Airport green light
BARCELONA’S El Prat Airport will undergo a controversial €3 billion expansion, to be completed by 2033, following Catalan president Salvador Illa’s approval.
The plan includes terminal upgrades, a new subway link, and a 500-metre extension of runway 24L/06R.
AENA says the upgrade will allow wide-body aircraft and boost international connectivity. But environmentalists and residents warn it threatens the protected La Ricarda wetlands, home to key migratory bird species.
Activists have branded the project climate denialism’, with mass protests planned. Over 1,000 residents recently rallied under the slogan Ni un Pam de Terra
Business leaders support the move, calling it vital for growth.
June 20th -
km) would only be eligible for €300 compensation after a four-hour delay, while long-haul delays (over 3,500 km) would trigger €500 after six hours.
Spain’s Consumer Affairs Ministry called the changes ‘abusive’ and a setback for consumer rights. The proposals still require approval from the European Parliament.
up classic Spanish fare earlier this year.
Its famous wood-fire oven and prime spot near Plaza Mayor have long cemented its place in history.
But now, another Madrid eatery, Casa Pedro, is making a daring claim: “We’re even older!”
The restaurant’s owners are convinced their establishment survived the brutal War of Spanish Succession in the early 1700s, which would put its opening date firmly before Botin’s.
“It's really frustrating when you say, ‘Yes, we've been around since 1702’, but... you can’t prove it,” admits Irene Guiñales, the eighth-generation owner and manager, whose
GET INLAND!
Now is the perfect time to explore the Requena-Utiel region of inland Valencia. With mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and a laid-back wine-country vibe, the area offers countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re an expat, a retiree, or a couple looking for a weekend adventure, here are five springtime activities that showcase the natural beauty of Requena-Utieljust a short drive from Valencia.
1. Horseback Riding in Requena
One of the most scenic ways to take in the gorgeous landscapes of Utiel-Requena is on horseback. Local tour providers, such as Ekiaventura, offer guided rides along picturesque trails. Even beginners are welcome, as routes along the gentle plains require no prior riding experience. Some excursions even pair horseback riding with wine tastingyou might spend 45 minutes trotting through the hills before relaxing at a bodega to sample Utiel-Requena’s renowned wines. It’s a perfect spring activity: enjoy the fresh air and green scenery from the
saddle, then toast the experience with a glass of Bobal wine.
2. Rafting and Water Adventures on the Cabriel River
For a shot of adrenaline, head to the Hoces del Cabriel area for rafting or kayaking. The Cabriel River - considered one of the cleanest in Europe - runs turquoise and clear through a dramatic canyon, making it ideal for water sports. Spring is the perfect season, with the river running high and the sun not yet too intense. Choose from guided white-water rafting trips or a gentler open-kayak outing to enjoy the gorge at your own pace. Several adventure companies, such as Hocesventura and Avensport, operate in the area, catering to beginners, families, and thrill-seekers alike. They provide the gear and expertise to ensure a safe and unforgettable day on the water.
3. Hiking in Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park
family has run the place for centuries.
“If you look at the restaurant’s logo, it says ‘Casa Pedro, since 1702,’ so we said, ‘Damn it, let's try to prove it!’,” she explained. The Guiñales family has now hired a historian, who has unearthed documents proving Casa Pedro was cooking as far back as 1750. But the hunt is on for that crucial evidence pushing the date back to 1702.
But just when you thought this Spanish showdown couldn’t get spicier, a sneaky Italian rival has entered the ring.
La Campana, a trattoria in Rome’s historic centre, boasts ‘more than 500 years of operation’, citing ancient documents and its own self-published history.
5 Things to do outdoors in Valencia’s Requena-Utiel region
Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park offers hiking routes for all ages and
fitness levels. Its varied terrain - from deep river gorges to dense forests and open meadows - makes for stunning spring walks. Easy trails like the 3.8 km Cuchillares de Contreras loop or the Peñas Blancas viewpoint route take around 1.5 hours and reward you with breathtaking panoramic views. For more experienced hikers, the 18 km Contreras Reservoir circular route takes you deeper into the park, offering canyon vistas and the chance to spot wildlife such as wild goats or birds of prey. Guided hikes are also available through local accommodations like Hotel Raïmblanc. Whatever you choose, lace up your boots, pack a picnic, and hit the well-marked trails to enjoy spring in full bloom.
4. Vineyard Walks and Wine Tastings
Requena-Utiel is wine country, and spring is a wonderful time for a leisurely vineyard walk. The
region boasts nearly 3,000 years of winemaking history, and the rolling hills come alive with fresh green growth this time of year. Many bodegas welcome visitors for tours, some even offering ‘hike & wine’ experiences that pair a short nature walk with tastings of signature wines made from local grapes like Bobal and Tempranillo. You can also follow parts of the official Requena-Utiel Wine Route, which connects winery towns via scenic backroads. Imagine strolling between vineyards under the warm spring sun, then pausing on a winery patio with a glass of vino. The mix of light exercise, gorgeous landscapes, and rich wine culture makes for a perfect day outdoors.
5. Birdwatching in the Hoces del Cabriel Canyons
Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts will find much to admire in and around Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park. This protected area is a sanctuary for wildlife and especially known for its birds of prey. Spring is a prime season
for birdwatching: the blooming flora draws insects, making birds more active and visible. From the park’s trails or miradores (lookout points), you might spot griffon vultures soaring above the cliffs, or Bonelli’s eagles and peregrine falcons hunting along the ridges. Lucky birders may even hear the call of an eagle-owl at dusk. Several park trails double as birding routes, offering a chance to combine a scenic hike with birdwatching. Be sure to bring a camera and a field guide—the sight of these majestic birds against the canyon backdrop is a spring highlight.
From horseback riding through budding vineyards to rafting down crystal-clear rapids, the Requena-Utiel region offers a treasure trove of unique springtime adventures. And the best part?
All of this is within about an hour’s drive from Valencia. Whether you’re after high-energy thrills or peaceful strolls with spectacular views (and perhaps a glass of wine in hand), Requena-Utiel has something for everyone this spring. So embrace the sunshine and happy exploring!
For a hassle-free visit to Requena-Utiel, try Hotel Raïmblanc where all your excursions can be arranged so you can focus on savouring the experience.
Madrid's legendary Sobrino de Botin
OLDEST: But Sobrino de Botin now has a challenger
FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL
Playa de Laga, Ibarrangelu (Basque Country)
de Laga offers a wide stretch of inviting, sandy, beach surrounded by green hills and dramatic cliffs. Its wild beauty and consistent Atlantic waves
make it another favourite for surfers. It’s a top contender for those seeking an unspoiled beach with stunning views and outdoor activities.
Casa Bassa, Ibiza (Balearics)
Ibiza is known for its nightlife and noisy, lively party hotspots. But there are still havens away from the madding crowds, such as Casa Bassa, which provides a quiet escape on the island’s lesser-known side. This hidden beach features turquoise waters and a rugged shore, and is popular with yachties who drop anchor in the bay for a peaceful day out.
November 29thDecember 12th 2023
BEACH READY..
SPAIN is famed for its beaches - after all the marketing slogan ‘sun, sea and sand’ was thought up for a reason. From miles of golden sands, to rockier shores and city beaches to those framed by nature, there is something for everyone.
By Dilip Kuner
Conde Nast has asked its readers to pick their favourite playas - and these are the top 10 to make it on to the short list - one from each coastal community.
These 10 beaches have been shortlisted for the Best Beach in Spain title
So why not pick one that is near you and get ready to pay a visit this summer…
Playa
de Las Catedrales, Ribadeo (Lugo)
Las Catedrales is famous for its towering rock formations resembling cathedral arches, making it one of Spain’s most famous beaches. At low tide visitors can walk beneath these massive natural structures,
OP Puzzle solutions
Quick Crossword
exploring caves and tunnels. It is so striking and unique that UNESCO has made it a World Heritage site and it is a must-see for anyone interested in dramatic landscapes and rugged beauty.
Down: 1 Superior court, 2 Purr, 3 Abhor, 4 Magnets, 5 The judge, 6 With both hands, 12 Suspects, 14 Bassist, 17 Vinci, 20 Hoes.
Playa
de
Poo, Llanes (Asturias)
Despite its disconcerting name (to British ears), Playa de Poo is a family-friendly beach in Asturias. Sheltered by rocky outcrops, the water is gentle and ideal for children. The surrounding area also offers beautiful walking trails and lush, green landscapes, making it perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, especially for families or anyone seeking a quiet spot.
huts make it
Cala del Portitxol,
(Alicante)
a perfect destination for a peaceful and in -
beach experience. Nature lovers will appreciate both the beautiful beach and the rugged coastline.
Tucked between dramatic cliffs, Cala del Portitxol is a small, charming cove, accessible only by foot or boat. Its pebble beach and old, traditional fishermen
timate
Playa
Javea
FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL
Voted Best Beach in Andalucia, Los Genoveses is one of the best playas in the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park - and it has quite some competition!
Surrounded by magnificent volcanic hills (don’t worry - they have been inactive for hundreds of
Los Genoveses Beach, Nijar (Almería)
thousands of years), this beach offers calm, clear waters and a huge expanse of golden sands. Proposals for an ‘ecotourism’ hotel have met with strident local opposition, with people determined to avoid the uncontrolled development seen on so many Spanish beaches.
Las Canteras Beach, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Canary Islands)
Cala Cap Roig, Sant Antoni de Calonge (Girona)
Playa de los Locos, Suances (Cantabria)
Heading north, you will find
with the
making it a
Indeed, its name means ‘Beach of the
named after people who take on the powerful waves. Beyond the surf, striking cliffs and a wild landscape give it a rugged, untamed
This beach is for adventure seekers - or simply anyone who enjoys watching dramatic waves rather than tackling them!.
Playa de Calblanque, Cartagena (Murcia)
Playa de Calblanque is one of Spain’s most unspoiled beaches. Within the Calblanque Regional Park, it offers stunning natural beauty with (yet again) soft golden sands,
clear turquoise waters, and a backdrop of rugged cliffs and dunes. It’s a haven for beachgoers looking to escape crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
Las Canteras is one of Spain’s most famous urban beaches. Stretching almost three kilometres, this beach offers a blend of natural beauty and city convenience. The waters are calm and perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling, thanks to a natural reef.
With nearby cafes, restaurants, and shops, Las Canteras is a great spot for those who want to enjoy both sun and city life.
Cala Cap Roig offers a secluded, peaceful escape within the wild, rocky beauty of the Costa Brava. Surrounded by pine forests and cliffs, this hidden cove has soft golden
sands and crystal-clear waters. Its tranquil setting and stunning views make it a perfect spot for relaxation, ideal for those looking to unwind away from crowds.
Playa de los Locos in Cantabria,
rolling Atlantic swell
surfer’s paradise.
Crazy’,
charm.
O P LIVE RESS
Padel
WHILE awaiting the announcement of whether he’s made the Barça team, English striker Marcus Rashford was spotted playing padel in Marbella.
Slasher
A MAN was caught red-handed by an off-duty cop as he slashed the tires of 20 cars in Bendalmadena. The 54-year-old was promptly arrested.
Tourism
HOTEL prices jumped by 7% in the past year, and have almost doubled since 2019, reflecting strains on Spain’s tourist-driven economy amidst rising demand.
A BIRD IN THE HAND
JUST as we may grab a hamburger, hotdog or kebab, ancient Romans reached for thrushes when they fancied a quick snack.
A recent study reveals that song thrushes, previously thought to be a luxury item, were a common and affordable fast food offering in 1st-century BC Roman street stalls.
Archaeologists examining a cesspit next to a taberna, or ancient Roman food shop, in the Roman city of Pollentia, on Mallorca, is challenging longheld assumptions about Roman culinary practices. They have unearthed 165
Archaeologists discover a feathered treat loved by everyday folk 2,000 years ago
By Dilip Kuner
bones of the migratory song thrush (Turdus philomelos).
These remains were found amidst other food scraps such as pig bones, domesticated rabbit remains and chicken bones, indicating their inclusion in everyday meals rather than elite banquets.
The taberna itself, connect-
ed to a popina (Roman snack bar) with embedded amphorae on its countertop, suggests a bustling environment akin to modern fast-food establishments.
Researcher Alejandro Valenzuela from the Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies (IMEDEA), who led the detailed bone analysis, commented:
FLOSSED IN TRANSLATION
A FORMER MP accidentally bought the wrong toothpaste on a recent visit to Spain and found himself in a sticky situation.
“Historically, thrushes were often mentioned in ancient texts as a delicacy, sometimes even fattened with figs for elaborate sauces.
THE internet went into meltdown last week with astonishing claims that Barron Trump, son of the US President, had secretly wed Spain’s Princess Leonor.
Wild YouTube videos, some racking up tens of thousands of views, showed the pair in what was described as a ‘Grand Royal Wedding at a Magnificent Palace’. One clip even claimed the lovebirds were singing duets.
Debunked
But hold the champagne –you will not be surprised to hear that it was all a complete fabrication.
“However, the context here –a modest commercial setting, not a lavish villa – strongly suggests these birds were accessible to ordinary Romans.”
That was until he attempted to use the product the next morning.
‘My mouth was now full of glue to keep your dentures in place’, he said. It clogged his toothbrush, and clung to his tongue, gums and teeth.
Matthew Parris, who was MP for West Derbyshire in the 80s, had popped into a pharmacy and grabbed ‘what looked like’ a Colgate packet, in its classic red and white packaging. Knowing ‘a bit of Spanish’, he saw the word ‘dientes’ (teeth) and a reference of a mint flavour and thought nothing more of it.
Further analysis of the bones revealed preparation methods consistent with quick-serve food. Broken breastbones, indicates the birds were likely flattened and quickly pan-fried rather than roasted.
Fact-checkers swiftly debunked the sensational story, pointing out there were zero credible reports from either the Spanish Royal Family or the Trump camp.
Many of the viral videos were clearly AI-generated, complete with dodgy facial features and unrealistic backgrounds.
Discover Leonardo Boutique Hotel Mallorca Port Portals - Adults Only, a 4-star superior hotel located right next to one of the most luxurious marinas of the Mediterranean: Port Portals.
Choose from one of our 77 unique rooms, all of them with great amenities and spectacular views, and enjoy a cocktail in the hotel’s Sky Bar or cool down on a Balinese bed by the pool. Come join us!
