Costa de Almeria 1 – 7 February 2024 Issue 2013 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

Costa de Almeria • Issue No. 2013 • 1 - 7 February 2024

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JET2.COM will offer 30 per cent more seats this summer on four connections from Almeria. The British airline Jet2. com has announced during the latest edition of the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) that was held in Madrid its growth plans in our country for the summer season of 2024 and that of Almeria will be one of the airports that benefit from the increase in the supply of seats and connections. Jet2.com has announced it will add 8,000 more seats in arrivals to the province looking forward to next summer. The total number of potential tourists who will be able to arrive at El Alquián airport with Jet2.com will be more than 36,000, 30 per cent more than in the summer of last year. The airline Jet2.com will offer direct connections from Almeria to four airports in the United Kingdom (Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds

JET2.COM: Announced recently its growth plans for the summer.

and Manchester) and has planned to reach a peak of up to eight weekly flights, two more than those operated in the last year. The company will go from three to four direct flights

from May to October and will continue to offer travel+hotel packs (Jet2holidays) with which to boost the arrival of British tourists to the province. The company landed for

the first time in Almeria in April 2017, putting more than 56,000 tickets on sale with its new routes, and since then it has been one of the essential airlines in the summer schedule.

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euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

A place in the sun ONCE again, the region of Almeria has become the star of the show in the latest filming of the hit UK television series, A Place in the Sun. Vicki from Dream Homes Almeria was seen filming with the one and only Ben Hillman on Thursday, January 25 in the Los Torres area in Arboleas. The real estate agency revealed on their social media that a number of properties were to be filmed during the last two weeks of January as another British couple looks to start their dream life under the Spanish sun. So if you’re planning to make a quick trip to the shop at any point, make sure to be camera ready, or if all else fails, put on the really big sunglasses!

Credit: Dream Homes Almeria

Vicki filming in Arboleas with Ben Hillman.

Albox cinema

WHAT better way to spend a winter’s night than by enjoying an evening at the cinema with family or friends? The town of Albox invites you to do just that, as on Saturday, February 3, the thrilling film, ‘Bee Keeper’ will be shown in English at the town’s cinema at 6pm. Jason Statham stars in what is hailed as an ‘amazing action film’, as the storyline follows

one man’s brutal campaign for vengeance, as he takes on national stakes after it’s revealed he’s a former operative of a powerful and clandestine organisation known as Beekeepers. Tickets are €6 and can be purchased at the cinema on arrival, which is located on Calle Rosario, 27, Edificio Municipal in Albox.

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NIBS EXTRA Generous donation

A GENEROUS donation was made by two wonderful people that dropped into Paws Patas from Almeria Lodge 74. These two gentlemen donated many new beds and a van full of food. The shelter stated that they: “can’t thank all the generous people enough, we really appreciate this and our doggies even more.”

Place to play

A BRAND new park has been opened in the town of Antas. La Era Children’s Park was presented to the young generation of Antas on Thursday January 25 and the little ones were able to enjoy the new facilities, one of which is the longest zip line in the region!

DNI help

ON February 6, 2024, the mobile DNI team of the National Police Corps will arrive in Albox. The service list is short, so priority will be given to people with difficulties. You will have to return on February 9 to collect the document. Those interested must register at the Local Police Station.

Cultural steps

THE Vera councillor for Celebrations, Antonia Marin Rubio, attended the first lifting of the steps of Jesus Atado a la Columna and the Stma. Virgen de las Angustias. An incredibly important and culturally significant event, where Diego Rodriguez Lopez and Gines Sabiote Asensio were awarded for their selfless charity work.

Reading club

AT the request of the many who have attended the Children’s Reading Club in Antas, the workshop will now continue until June. It is free to attend, every Tuesday from 5pm to 6pm at the municipal library in Antas. It is aimed at children between six and 11. to practice their Spanish.

ON January 29 and 30 the second edition of the Oﬃcial Hospitality Championship of Spain - Tapas and Pinchos - will take place. Representing the Provincial Association of Hospitality Entrepreneurs of Almeria (ASHAL) will be none other than Tolo Castillo, the head chef at renowned restaurant, Casa Rafael. The event will be held at the Madrid Fusion International Gastronomy Congress, a place where talent, innovation and knowledge come together each year.

1 - 7 February 2024

Tapas & Pinchos Credit: Facebook

TOLO CASTILLO: Will make a dish from Almeria produce.

This tournament is made up of a series of tapas and ‘pintxos’ competitions that have been or-

ganised by the provincial associations that are part of Hospitality of Spain. Tolo Castillo will have 30

minutes or less to prepare a dish made only with Almeria raw materials, which also represents the gastronomic beauty of the region. Judging the dishes will be a jury of experts, which will be led by the renowned chef, Pedro Larumbe. A total of 31 other participants, all representing their own province, will compete alongside Tolo Castillo for the title of ‘Best Tapa/Pincho’ in Spain.

Party in Albox Dreambeach line-up THE town of Albox invites people from far and wide to come and participate in Albox Carnival 2024. The town has called all Carnival lovers to join in this coming Saturday, February 3 for a party like no other that will spill through its streets. The parade will start from the Plaza de San Francisco, in the La Loma neighborhood, and after travelling through the main streets of Albox, it will arrive at the Water and Health Centre Auditorium where the main Carnival party will be held. At the end of the parade there will be a space for groups that wish to show a special performance and, in addition, throughout the night there will be music with DJs and a bar run by local entertainment venues. The mayor of Albox, Maria del Mar Alfonso, declared that: “We will have a great carnival party with children’s attractions and food stalls throughout the evening.”

THE Dreambeach festival has confirmed some new names on the line-up for its 10th anniversary event this year. The mayor of Almeria, Maria del Mar Vazquez, presented the introduction of the region’s famous Dreambeach festival at FITUR in Madrid. The festival will take place in a new space which is located in El Toyo-Retamar, and during the presentation many international artists were announced to be performing at the event. Well-known names including Nico Moreno,

A special gift

ANGIE GRENTER found her dream home in Mojacar 12 years ago. Her latest visit was to celebrate her 65th birthday, but unfortunately, she wasn’t feeling very well and shared the information on her Facebook page. She decided to talk a walk to get some fresh air and on her return she found a gift lying on her doorstep: a bag of the biggest lemons she had ever seen, and a note from ‘Christine’. She racked her brain to remember who Christine could be, and then remembered that it was someone she

had met back in 2017. Angie is currently back in the UK, where she is “still not feeling 100 per cent” but at home resting. She told EWN that she will be back out to her house in Mojacar in May this year and plans to bake one of her famous lemon drizzle cakes to thank her friend Christine. It just shows what a diﬀerence a small gesture can make to the life of another, and how the love and kindness within a community can, at least begin, to cure all.

Joris Voorn and Nina Kraviz will perform alongside David Guetta from August 1 to 4 at what is sure to be an entertaining three days of fun. During her speech, the mayor explained that: “our motto in this edition of FITUR is ‘Almeria, change your perspective’, aimed at promoting the new possibilities that Almeria generates in tourist segments in which we want to be a reference, such as blue tourism, sports and music festivals.” Tickets are available at www.dreambeach.es.

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A night of passion THE last tickets are still available for the performance of Israel Fernandez, one of the greatest flamenco singers of the moment. The show will take place in the town of Vera on Saturday February 3 and will start at 8pm. The audience in attendance will experience the extraordinary and captivating voice of Israel Fernandez, who will be accompanied by Diego del Morao on guitar, Ane Carrasco on percussion and Angel Moreno and Marcos Alba on clapping. The entry price is €18, and purchases can be made at the Tourist Office in Vera or online at www.giglon.com. Entry can also be acquired at the box office at the Auditorio in Vera for €20 on the day of the concert.

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Mind your Spanglish

VIEWPOINT BILL ANDERSON SOMETHING a bit lighter this week, but nevertheless important. I have worked with thousands of International residents over the years, and speaking Spanish is a topic that comes up time and again. I have had some humorous moments in my learning Spanish journey. In my early days here, a Spanish teacher arrived at the house to do a class for my now late wife, and after courteous greeting she announced that she was a bit ‘constipada’. I wondered why she was telling me about her toilet habits, not something one expects when asking ‘¿Como estas?’ I reverted to my analogue dictionary and discovered that it meant ‘congested’, ie with a head cold. I was relieved. Sitting one day at a friend’s restaurant

I was amused when a group of young Norwegian tourists began to wish a friend a Happy Birthday, in Spanish. But they hadn’t grasped the effect of the little eyebrow over the ‘ñ’ and were wishing their friend a happy anus. There was raucous laughter when we filled them in. A recurring theme from many of my British acquaintances is how difficult it is to learn a language when you are getting on in years. I get it. And let’s be honest, when you live in many coastal areas, people can get by day to day without a decent level of Spanish. When my now wife immigrated with her family to Australia in the 1970s, it was a different story. Immigrants were scolded for speaking their native tongue in public places. I am not

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saying I would like to see that happening in Spain in 2024, but I do get frustrated when I hear people complaining that they have gone to the Guardia Civil ‘and they didn’t speak English’, or to the hospital and an appointment was all but wasted because they couldn’t communicate. If no translator is available, why on earth don’t they take someone with them to help? In many ways, Spain has done its best to accommodate foreign immigrants, but it’s not Spain’s responsibility to make sure we are understood. In fairness, I know a lot of older people who faithfully attend their Spanish classes and still say they struggle to have a conversation with a Spaniard. Learning Spanish doesn’t ha-

ppen by attending a class once a week. It happens by immersing yourself in the Spanish life and culture, by using every opportunity you have to use Spanish, by getting into situations where you either have to remain silent or use the language to be part of the conversation. Of course, this is not as comfortable as being surrounded by our fellow native English speakers, but if we don’t escape our comfort zone, it will never happen. Spaniards don’t care if we get it wrong, but they do get annoyed when we don’t try. I have had many conversations with Spaniards who confirm this. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, or too shy to show what you have learned. Get out there and just do it.

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PROVERB OF THE WEEK “The dog may be wonderful prose, but only the cat is poetry.”

PRINTERS: OMNIPRINT. Thee EWN does not accept responsibility for the following: Claims actions and promises made by advertisers; Errors in advertisements reproduced from poor quality artwork or inadequate instructions for text layout or for any loss or damage caused by any error; Inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement; More than ONE INCORRECT insertion. No republication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement, errors and omissions excepted. EWN Media Group no part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written permission from the publishers. All rights reserved / Todos los Derechos reservados. Dep. Legal V-420-2004

This French proverb suggests that while dogs and cats have their own admirable qualities, cats possess a certain elusive charm and elegance that is akin to poetry.

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Seasonal switch up!

THE region of Almeria has experienced the hottest January so far in its history, with the temperature on four days reaching more than 25 degrees. If one was to spend a day in Almeria, and many of the surrounding regions in the south of Spain at the moment, it may be quite difficult to tell what season it is! Winter would definitely not be a first guess, as many have seized this opportunity of abnormal sunshine and heat and taken

Credit: Facebook/Almeriainpictures

HOTTEST BY FAR: On the beach in January!

to the beach during the month of January, with some even spotted having a swim in the sea. On Friday, January 26, Al-

Great response

THE people of Almeria say they receive an outstanding service by the emergency teams 061. The 061 Health Emergency Centre in Almería has received a rating of 9.4 out of 10 from the people who requested urgent health care through 061 during the year 2023. The results obtained during this year show that the humane treatment received from the professionals of healthcare equipment and the safety conveyed by emergency equipment are the highest rated dimensions, with 9.7 and 9.6, respectively. This is followed by the understanding of the information provided during the assistance and the information conveyed itself, with 9.4 and 9.2 out of 10.

meria recorded the highest temperature in the entire Iberian Peninsula as the town of Huercal-Overa reached 27.5 degrees celsius at midday. However, according to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the weather will begin to turn slightly more towards winter during the first week of February, when the maximum temperatures are only expected to reach around 20 degrees, the equivalent of a British summer day! Although locals and tourists alike seem to be enjoying this unexpected sun, the ongoing concerns about the reservoirs filling up to deal with the demands of the summer remain high.

Work and live in Vera THE town of Vera seems to be the current role model for the ‘Almeria Work and Live Destination’ project. The project took its first steps, and opened itself to the world at the international tourism fair, FITUR Madrid. ‘Almeria Work and Live Destination’ plans to shine light on the province of Almeria as the best place to settle and telework, taking heed from the enormous success and potential of the pilot experience of the Veratense Council through ‘Vera, Teleworking City’. The president of the Provincial Council, Javier A Garcia is currently working closely with the mayor of Veracruz, Alfonso Garcia, in a bid to highlight that ‘Almeria work and live Destination’ is a project full of opportunities to attract talent, companies and professionals who can develop their professional and business activities accompanied by an exceptional quality of life in Almeria. Garcia explained that: “Only we Almerians know the benefits and quality of life that our province offers its residents. We consider this project a priority initiative to attract talent and so that digital nomads can learn about the opportunities that our land offers. We are sure that many of these nomads, when they know the quality of life that Almeria offers, will stop being so.”

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A RECORD number of runners participated in the fifth edition of the La Polvora Trail, which saw more than 740 athletes come together in Cantoria. Cantoria once again starred in its famous sporting events, enjoying a record year in which more than 740 participants were present in its renowned race for all ages and abilities. From early in the morning, Cantoria

Credit: La Polvora Trail

Record race LA POLVORA TRAIL: Ready runners!

buzzed with excitement as the crowds started to gather, with Pepe Yepes at the controls as speaker, announcing the starting times.

In total, 102 trophies were awarded after the race among all categories, before the day came to a close with a well-deserved spread.

La Matanza fair

THE cultural event of the Matanza Fair comes back to the pueblo of Aljariz for the second time, after its success in 2023. This may not be for everyone, but meat eaters will be queuing up. The 2024 edition of this fair will take place on Sunday February 4 in the Plaza de Aljariz from 12 midday. There will be a bar allowing visitors to try the typical fresh meats as well as traditional pork cutting, with production of fresh sausages. On sale

will be home-made fresh sausages and to top it all off, a fantastic wine tasting (exhibition and sale). There will also be attractions for the little ones, and a candy stand for some sweet and tasty treats! This is a great environment to immerse oneself in Spanish culture. The matanza (slaughter) is not a tradition which everyone is comfortable with but in many areas, especially more rural zones, it remains an important event in the calendar.

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Here we save turtles

THE town of Mojacar has joined the ‘here we save turtles’ awareness-raising campaign. This campaign was started in 2019 by the Oceanographic Foundation and has since been growing fast, with the Azul Marino Foundation and Palma Aquarium Foundation joining, and extending to the Balearic Islands and Murcia Region, incorporating also the Sevilla Aquarium and various Andalucia localities. As of 2024 there are now 80 municipalities that have joined the campaign, which is also in collaboration with the Junta de Andalucia and the Andalucian Federation

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar

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AWARENESS CAMPAIGN: Sea turtle sighting in Mojacar.

of Municipalities and Provinces (FAMP). To maximise the reach of this ‘here we save turtles’, posters have been put up around Mojacar, and the manual of good practices publicised on the council’s social media and website. In addition to this, all employees who have a relation with the beach are now

aware of the importance, every morning, of looking out for turtle tracks in the sand. Bathers and travellers are also informed about the presence of marine turtles on the Mediterranean coasts, so that in the event of a sighting they can call 112 and activate the Strandings Network.

Let’s help a child Credit: Ayuntamiento de Adra

THE town of Adra hosted a concert on Wednesday, January 24 that aimed to educate its audience, in addition to raising funds for schoolchildren in need. The concert was held at the Ciudad de Adra Auditorium during Wednesday morning as a part of the NGO’s School of Solidarity programme, ‘Let’s help a child’. Together with the council of Adra, this initiative was performed for almost a thousand schoolchildren from the town and its surrounding areas. The students enjoyed 50 minutes of a playful and entertaining show that used THE town of Cuevas del Almanzora has announced that it will save between €40,000 and €80,000 with its new electricity supply contract. The council of Cuevas del Almanzora has recently awarded the electricity supply contract for the town’s municipal offices and public lighting to Iberdrola for an amount of €501,000. The councillor for Finance and Personnel, Isabel Avila stated that: “We have put out to tender, for the first time directly, the electricity supply in order to save on energy costs. “The decision was made based on market prices and has also had in one of its

CONCERT: A worthy performance raising funds.

completely recycled instruments for its soundtrack. The objective of the day was also to raise funds to allocate school supplies, food and other resources for needy families and disadvantaged groups, in a bid to help the cause of achieving the eradication of poverty. Among the schools that attended and made a selfless contribution were the CEIP Fuentesantilla, CEIP Pedro de Mena, CEIP Abdera, CEIP San Nicolas, CEIP Nueva Andalucia, IES Gaviota and the Berja school, Our Lady of Gador.

Spark saving important clauses that the supply comes 100 per cent from renewable energy sources.” She then added that with this contract, “a saving to the public coffers of between €40,000 and €80,000 is achieved.” The contract will last for two years and is then extendable for another three. It includes the supply of electrical energy for public lighting, municipal sports buildings and facilities, public education buildings, health buildings, cultural promotion buildings, and social action buildings.

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EWN

Are you fulfilling your residency obligations? Any UK resident who would like to spend more than 90 days in one or more of the Schengen zone states are confronted by a time-consuming, paper-heavy visa process.

Court ruling has impacted the situation. It found in favour of an Iranian woman who lost her temporary residence and work permit after being for more than six months.

Whether right or wrong, this perhaps explains why many UK nationals with second homes took the opportunity to apply for a residency permit prior to the UK leaving the EU, even if they had no intention of spending 183 days in Spain – a requirement for its successful renewal, and, incidentally, the point at which you become a tax resident.

After finding a contradiction with Article 19 of Spain’s constitution espousing ‘freedom of movement’ when talking about temporary residence permits, the Court nullified Regulation 162.2 of Spain’s immigration law which restricts absences to no more than 182 days a year. It however confirmed the government can re-introduce it as an organic law in the future.

Swapping a pre-existing residency card for one stating it was issued under the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, thus preserving pre-Brexit rights, was more of an exchange than a review of the individual’s actual qualification for the residency permit in the first place. But many of these cards fall due for renewal or upgrade to permanent residency cards from mid-

By Jon Pemberton, Partner, Blevins Franks

2025, and many UK nationals might feel concerned about what awaits them. The EU is going through a massive digital immigration upgrade, with the “Entry and Exit Scheme” (EES) expected to come online later this year. This will quickly establish how many days a Briton spends in Spain, though individuals holding residency permits are exempt. Spain court ruling and ramifications A recent Spanish Supreme

This now means each situation will be reviewed on its own merits, with no real security over what scenario will qualify. Residence decisions may be based more on assessing if Spain is the main home, rather than the number of days. The threat of being denied a permit renewal therefore remains.

The Spanish tax authorities are likely to be interested in reviewing the days in and out of Spain and trying to establish if your “centre of economic interests” or “centre of vital interests” (family base) is in Spain – all of which could make you liable to Spanish taxation on worldwide income and wealth. On renewal at five years, you are likely to be denied permanent residence as there is an extra stipulation of no more than 10 months absence over the five years of temporary residence. The risks of fulfilling residence criteria Applying for or renewing a residency permit with no intention of becoming legally resident is potentially fraudulent. It may well result in a large fine, removal of the permit, country ban for several years and rejection of any future visa and residency applications.

The ongoing discussions between UK and Spanish government departments may eventually lead to the annual 180-day allowance becoming flexible across the year, rather than the current maximum of 90 days at a time. This may be sufficient for some people, though this change may need to be agreed at EU level. Any Briton falling foul of a state’s immigration authorities may find they have lost the thing they value the most – the ability to spend time at their villa for several years to come. If any of this concerns you, take steps to rectify your situation before it is too late. Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should seek personalised advice. Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www. blevinsfranks.com.

10 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

THE town of Vera found itself right in the middle of the capital city Madrid recently, also making an appearance on radio and television stations to promote itself as a destination. The featured image for the promotion is titled, ‘stories for life’, and stars Ignacio Martin Lerma, the renowned archaeologist and scientist from Vera. Alfonso Garcia, the Mayor of Vera explained that: “This is a campaign that we launched taking advantage of the framework of FITUR, the International Tourism Fair, in Madrid with the aim of achieving a high ‘qualitative’ impact, approaching a large volume of people in the place where much of the tourism that arrives is concentrated. to our town such as the Community of Madrid.” He also added that this innovative advertising campaign “will show Ma-

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Vera

Vera visits Madrid Clamour in the countryside

Ignacio Martin Lerma at FITUR Madrid.

drid residents the charms of our municipality and the different stories they can live in Vera, stories for life, as indicated by the slogan of our new tourism promotion campaign.” The councillor for City Promotion, Carolina Perez Gallardo, then stated that, “In Vera we have many and varied attractions, but above all we have an offer

based on tourist quality, as it could not be otherwise, in one of the municipalities with the highest per capita income in the province of Almeria.” The campaign, which has now been seen by thousands, invites all, from far and wide, to come and create their own ‘stories for life’, in the beautiful town of Vera.

THERE is currently chaos and clamour in the countryside of Almeria due to the ‘inaction’ against the problematic pickets that are taking place in France. On Saturday, January 27, The Association of Organisations of Fruit and Vegetable Producers of the province of Almeria (Coexphal) officially denounced the “inaction of the Spanish government” as well as the French authorities, as they feel they have failed to stop the “vandalism of the French pickets” on the lorries with horticultural products that originate from the region. A spokesperson from the organisation stated that: “The situation has gone from serious to very serious. The demonstrations by French farmers have begun to affect a good number of companies and cooperatives in Almeria that A CYCLIST had a narrow escape on Sunday, January 28 after falling into a 12 metre ravine in Lucainena de las Torres, Almeria. The man was rescued by firefighters, and suffered only a few bruises from a fall that could have easily cost him his life. At 2pm on Sunday, January 28, Emergency Telephone 112 responded to a distress call that indicated a

are seeing how lorries with fruit and vegetable products are being boycotted and the lorries are being vandalised.” They insist that there has been “inaction” on the part of the Spanish and French authorities to stop these acts that “attack” the principle of free movement of goods throughout the territory of the European Union. Coexphal has received great concern among many of its associates who are seeing how their lorries are not arriving, orders are being cancelled, even when already in the process of distribution. Every day, an average of more than 350 lorries leave Almeria loaded with Spanish fruits and vegetables bound for France. One lorry driver from Almeria who has been affected by the pickets said: “This is war, there are thousands of lorries stopped. This is inhumane.”

Lucky escape

cyclist had fallen to the bottom of a ravine and requested help to rescue him. The accident had occurred on the greenway that runs between Lucainena and Venta del Pobre. The coordinating centre then notified the Levante Firefighters and the Police,

who quickly moved to the scene. According to the Guardia Civil, the injured man was conscious, although bruised and at the time a fractured hip was suspected. When the firefighters arrived, the cyclist was unable to move, and in a ravine with a depth. The man was later transferred to the Torrecardenas hospital.

euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

Carnaval Mojacar 2024 THE party is back! ‘Carnaval Mojacar’ will once again fill the streets of the town in Almeria with singing, dancing and lots of colour! On Friday February 9, the festivities will begin with the children’s carnival at the Centro de Usos Multiples, beginning at 6pm. There the younger generation will find many attractions, games and of course sweet treats especially for their enjoyment. On Saturday 10, the Grand Carnival Parade will take place. Starting at the Rio Abajo roundabout at 5pm and ending with the highly anticipated carnival choreography competition at The Parque Comercial at 7pm, viewers should expect sequins, feathers and some dazzling dance moves. On Valentine’s Day, February 14, Mojacar will perform its unique tra-

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar

12 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

Last year’s incredible costumes!

dition of carrying the giant sardine in a procession through the streets of the pueblo, accompanied by the municipal band. The days of parties will come to a close with one final ceremony at the Centro de Usos Multiples from 7pm, which will offer all in attendance complimentary churros and chocolate.

Indalo Players THE Indalo Players are about to celebrate their 25th anniversary and during those years they have performed and entertai-

Indalo Players Executive Committee.

ned people with a variety of productions, including Hi-De-Hi, Oh What A Lovely War, The House Of Bernarda Alba and the obligatory annual pantomimes. They have also enjoyed the fact that after the final curtain, any excess funds from the shows production expenses are awarded to local charities. Indalo Players are proud to announce that at the beginning of 2024 they awarded €1,000 to both Vera Children’s Home and Asprodalba who care for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Unless one has participated in this hobby; then people have no idea how much time, energy, dedication and

of course fun is put into ensuring a professional show is ready for the public. The term ‘Amateur Dramatics’ simply means that those involved do not get paid. Their next production is Vernon Coleman’s comedy Mrs Caldicot’s Cabbage War which was a very successful film in 2003 starring Pauline Collins and John Alderton. During March, there will be six shows in three different theatres located in Bedar, Arboleas and Los Gallardos. For more information and tickets: www.inda loplayers.es / Facebook: Indalo Players - El Teatro Mojácar. Telephone: 629 252 292/670 722 705.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

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THE ‘Open Mic’ event by The Written Word Group in celebration of their one year anniversary is edging ever closer, and Euro Weekly News caught up with co-founder Berni Albrighton to see how preparations are coming along. Berni explained that The Written Word Group first came to be when she met her friend’s husband, David, for a coffee, as they are both writers and always have much to discuss. “By the end of the meeting we both said ‘yes, we need to set a writers’ group up, there’s nothing like this in Albox,” she told EWN. That was just over a year ago back in January 2023, and now Berni tells us that they have seen many writers come and go from the group, with “seven core permanent members.” They meet up every month and have a WhatsApp group where they talk and share ideas. Berni explained that although there are diffe-

BERNI ALBRIGHTON: Talks about the Open Mic event.

rent ages and nationalities within the group, they all share one thing: a passion for writing. “It’s all about confidence” she reveals, “many of our members had not written for years, but now they are creating great work and even working professionally in the field!” The Open Mic event will be on Wednesday, February 7 from 1.30pm to 4pm at Hostal Meson, Arboleas, next to

Coviran supermarket. All writers are invited to read their work, or just relax and listen to some lovely creations. All types of original written work are welcome. The only restriction is that your work cannot exceed 500 words. Come along and help make this a successful event. For more information contact: +34 711 040 444 or email: balbrighton@gmail. com.

THE town of Mojacar has started 2024 by resuming its much loved, free hiking programme under the motto: ‘Discover Mojacar in autumn and winter’. The first of these has already begun, starting on Saturday January 27 from the district of Sopalmo, going through Bordenares and La Granatilla. Designed by the Department of Tourism, these routes will take participants on a cultural journey through the beautiful streets and natural sights of Mojacar. The initiative was first taken in order to promote tourism but many locals of the town have already joined in during the last few months of 2023. Mojacar resident Stuart Tryne told Euro Weekly News that he attended the last tour on December 30 with his niece and nephew. “I think it’s a fantastic idea, and a great way for people to discover Mojacar, the kids loved learning about the town’s history and secrets.”

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar

The written word Mojacar hiking programme A rocking route!

Next on the list of these free guided tours, on Saturday February 4, will venture around Mojacar village and the paths used by the ancient inhabitants on their commercial movements. Those interested in participating in these routes must formalise their registration for free at the Mojacar Tourism Office. Alternatively, call +34 950 615 025 for bookings.

Fully equipped p open p p plan kitchen working well withhe rest of the house.

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Cycling takes over Almeria Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar

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WOMEN’S CYCLING: A spectacular race.

OLIVIA BARIL, a Canadian cyclist, has officially won the third edition of the Women Cycling Pro Costa de Almeria. The race was held over a distance of 121 kilometres, spanning between Campohermoso in Nijar and the town of Mojacar. Baril took home the gold in a spectacular high finish in which she crossed the finish line with a time of three hours, 31 minutes and 30 seconds. The race had been organised by Total Sport Mediterranean together with

the town councils of Nijar, Mojacar and Garrucha. Also in collaboration: the Junta de Andalucia, the Provincial Council of Almeria and the Commonwealth of Municipalities of Levante Almeria. The race began in Campohermoso and passed through San Isidro, White town, Campohermoso, Villa de Nijar, La Boca de los Frailes, Mirador de la Amatista, Rodalquilar, Los Mendez, Las Hortichuelas Bajas, Fernán Perez, Los Pacos, La Joya and Agua Amarga. Many spectators were

THE Junta de Andalucia has asked for “clear dates” for the arrival of high speed to Almeria. Unfortunately, doubts about the date on which the arrival of the train service to Almeria have become a reality after Angel Meca, the councillor for Large Infrastructures of the Lorca City Council, said: “the year 2026 for the arrival of the AVE to Almeria is, as a famous bullfighter once said, ‘what cannot be, cannot be, and it is also impossible’.” The government delegate of the Junta de Andalucia, Aranzazu Martin, explained on television (Hora 14 of Cadena SER Almeria) that “the news we have woken up to is quite disturbing and worrying. The fact that the Lorca City Council itself has announced that the AVE will be there for 2028, and not for 2026,

present on the sidelines, with family and friends cheering the participants on! Local residents were also seen to be in attendance, with some even watching from their balconies and patios. Sergio Dominguez, the CEO of Total Sport Mediterranean, stated that: “it has been a spectacular third edition of the Women Cycling Pro Costa de Almeria” and thanked, “the support of all the institutions and sponsors to be able to carry out this sporting event.”

Train coming? is obviously going to put everyone in check because it once again shows the delays that are occurring upon arrival in our capital.” The Railway Infrastructure Administrator entity includes up to four phases for the works that will come after the platform between Murcia and Almeria, the third being the one between Lorca and Almeria. A visit was scheduled this past Wednesday, January 24, to tour the sections closest to the capital, the mouth of the Sorbas, Nijar and Vera tunnel. So, for now it seems, there’s still no train in sight.

Variety show success THE Miraflores Variety Show took place on Saturday, January 20, and in addition to being a fantastic night of entertainment, it also succeeded in raising a large amount of money for a worthy cause. The show was in aid of the local charity, Paws Patas Animal Rescue centre, who as many are aware have taken in a huge influx of animals recently and are

in desperate need of help in all forms. The proceeds from the Miraflores Variety Show have finally been totalled up and come to an incredible amount of €1,510.60, which will all go towards making sure these animals are safe, fed and one day find a forever home. The charity put out a “massive thank you” to all who helped, writing on

their Facebook that: “We are so grateful to all the wonderful people who entertained and those who generously donated to raise much needed funds for Paws Patas. Special thanks to Compare: Mike Calnun-Stone, Musical Director: Ken Greisen, the wonderful volunteers and the Miraflores staff…not forgetting The King and Queen of Los Gallardos Camping!”

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1 - 7 February 2024

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IT has been announced that the town of Mojacar will be the base for the renowned Levante Cup 2024 football tournament. This important and well-established youth football tournament will once again welcome the best Spanish youth football academies to take part in 2024. The Levante Cup has six categories: ‘pre-benjamin’ (5-7 years old), ‘benjamin’ (under-10), ‘alevin’ (under-12), youth (under-14), as well as girls and youth/ junior girls. For this year’s Levante Cup there is more participation than ever, among which the league clubs’ feeder teams and the best national football academies stand out. An estimated 20,000 or more family members and fans are expected to attend to watch the matches. The tournament has

Credit: Shutterstock/1937240464

Mojacar to host Cup Precious land

LEVANTE CUP: A football frenzy.

been running for almost 10 years, and boasts more than 250,000 views on their YouTube channel of matches that have been played. They have 50,000 followers on their social media and are also followed live on Canal Deporte, with 330,000 viewers. The competition will be from May 24 to May 26 with the final matches being held from June 21 to June 23. The town of Mo-

jacar will be submitting their own, homegrown teams with a group for each boys’ category. The importance of these football matches lies not only in the promotion of the sport and providing the training of young teams, but it is also an opportunity for players to have a platform where their game and skills can be seen by professional ‘scouts’ who attend the matches.

IN the province of Almeria, the price of land continues to increase, and one type in particular is skyrocketing, now becoming the most expensive agricultural land in the entire country of Spain. As was explained in the report ‘Agrarian Land in Spain 2023’, which was prepared by the appraisal company Tinsa, the value of agricultural land in Almeria has enjoyed a continuous increase during 2023. This is especially apparent in land dedicated to vegetables, herbaceous and irrigated fruit trees. Due to this fact, the land dedicated to greenhouses for growing vegetables in Almeria has become the most expensive in the entire country in unit terms, with a value last TWO Amazon parrots are among nine exotic birds that were stolen from the Interpretation Centre and Ornithological Park, La Balsa del Sapo, located in Las Norias de Daza (El Ejido). During the night of Saturday, January 17, an alleged robbery was reported through an official state-

year of €163,400 per hectare. This stark increase is mainly due to adverse weather conditions, including the drought and the general impact of climate change, which have led to a reduction in production in a sector which was already penalised by a marked inflation in its production costs. As stated in the Tinsa report by the director of Tinsa’s Studies Service, Cristina Arias: “Climate change reduces the production of all crops, but it has a special impact on dryland crops, which are more sensitive to their natural environment. This increases the value of irrigated crops and is driving the search for techniques that allow efficient use of water.”

Parrots pinched! ment on the centre’s social networks. Among the stolen species are two ‘Militaris’ macaws, one Amazon macaw, three ‘Azulamarillo’ macaws, two Amazon parrots and the cockatoo known as ‘Alba’, who is one of the

most charismatic animals and much loved by the regular visitors to the park. La Balsa del Sapo has now called on all its neighbours to urge them to contact the park if they notice “any suspicious sale of birds.”

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THE town of Huercal-Overa in Almeria has over €12,000 address the problems of drug dependency and addictive behaviours of its residents. The campaign is named ‘Huercal-Overa against drugs’ and it has received a subsidy of €12,300 from the government of Andalucia. The programme has been running since 1998, and in 2024 it has planned a schedule of activities and actions that are aimed at preventing and fighting drug addiction and other non-substance addictions, gambling, video games, etc. These activities include prevention workshops with adolescents, health training, and family days. It is particularly aimed at adolescents and young people in Huercalense society, although older people are also welcomed. The main objectives are to reduce or alleviate the

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Huercal-Overa

Anti-drug programme

HUERCAL-OVERA: Prevention is a priority.

use of drugs, both legal and illegal and stimulate the involvement and participation of the population in the construction of a healthier city. Other towns in Almeria inducing Viator, Adra, Vicar and El Ejido also participate in this prevention program. The Huercal-Overa council stated that: “prevention is a priority and fundamental to avoid certain dependencies and addictive behaviours in our society.”

Yoga on the beach

Veratense pottery

THE town of Mojacar held its first ‘yoga on the beach’ session on Sunday, January 28. The free classes will be taking place every month on Mojacar beach and are a part of the town’s winter activities programme, which aims to show locals and tourists that even during the colder months, Mojacar has many fantastic days of fun to offer. The yoga class saw a great turn out, with over 20 people bringing their mats and towels down to the sand in order to stretch their bodies and relax their minds. Namaste!

TRADITION is being kept alive in the town of Vera, as its traditional pottery will now be taught to school children around the town. The councillor for Education, Irene Vazquez, together with the councillor for Culture, Antonio Soler, have attended the first of many pottery workshops that have been launched by the council of Vera for the local educational centres. Salvador Hernandez Jr, who is a representative of several generations of potters from Vera, led the first workshop in which the students of the CEIP ‘Reyes Catolicos’ of Vera participated and began their journey to learn the delicate art of traditional Veratense pottery.

THE infamous wild boars of Almeria may have a desire for a brighter future, as their latest sighting was at the University of Almeria campus! During the last week of January there were many reports of the animals being spotted around the campus of the University of Almeria, scaring many students and causing quite a scene. The herd, which was made up of around nine boars, took a tour around the La Cañada campus, perhaps to see if this was the right educational centre for their future needs! Thankfully, although on-

University boars lookers were shocked and a very wary, the boars were able to move freely without being disturbed or provoked. However, many were seen to have mobile phones in hand, capturing the unbelievable scene for social media. As tensions around the theme of how to control the wild boars rise, the Animalist Party of Almeria, PACMA, are urging authorities to

consider an immunocontraceptive vaccine instead of allowing people to hunt the animals. In some areas, including Cabo de Gata, residents and even schoolchildren continue to express their fear of the frequent presence of these wild animals that walk among the community, frequenting bars, roads and supermarkets, in search of easy food.

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Oldest gorilla dies at 60 Unfortunately, after recently suffering from a chest infection, and being in ill health for some time, the decision was taken to put Delilah to sleep to prevent further decline in her con-

dition. Belfast Zoo curator Julie Mansell said: “Because of her advanced years we knew this day would come, but it is still a difficult time for everyone who was involved with Delilah during her life at Belfast.” Delilah was previous-

ly featured on the show Animal Magic with Johnny Morris, and had lived at the zoo for 32 years. During recent years, Delilah had been kept on a specialised diet and received baby porridge with her medication each morning. The statement relea-

sed by Belfast Zoo said: “The team is deeply saddened by her loss. During her 32 years at Belfast Zoo, Delilah was a character and was loved by keepers and visitors.” People from all over the world have flooded social media with messages of love for the go-

Credit: Belfast City Council

DELILAH the gorilla was the oldest gorilla in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. She celebrated her 60th birthday in late 2023 and lived at Belfast Zoo. Delilah reached this remarkable age due to the constant love and care of the animal teams at Belfast Zoo.

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The much loved Delilah.

rilla, with many adults reminiscing on visiting her during their childhood.

Airport boarding streamlined Mandatory service

Passengers can register their facial data.

THE often laborious checkin and boarding procedures can be a tedious distraction for travellers at airports. However, technology looks set to transform the boarding experience, with a new futuristic option already a reality at several Spanish airports, thanks to Vueling, a trailblazer in air travel innovation. Recently, Vueling has introduced a ground-breaking facial recognition

system at key Spanish airports, including Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas, and others in Palma de Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza. This system marks a significant departure from traditional boarding processes, with plans to expand to Tenerife North and Gran Canaria airports. To utilise this new system, Vueling passengers must first register their

facial data. This can be done either online during check-in via the airline’s website or app or at designated kiosks in the airports. Once registered, passengers won’t need to undergo this process for future flights if they opt to use facial recognition which is currently a voluntary choice. The main advantage of this biometric system is its efficiency. Registered passengers can move through security checks and boarding gates without needing physical documentation. This system, initially available at select points, promises to streamline the airport experience significantly. Vueling’s adoption of facial recognition technology signals a major shift in air travel procedures. The airline foresees biometrics becoming the norm in the coming years, not only expediting airport procedures but potentially inspiring other airlines to adopt similar technologies. With this change, Vueling is leading the way in modernising the aviation experience.

NATIONAL SERVICE was mandatory in Britain from 1947 until 1963, and during that time more than two million men were conscripted into the British Army, Royal Navy or the Royal Air Force. National service is the mandatory legal obligation to serve in the country’s military. This meant that all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 30 were called up during this time. In Spain, compulsory military service, colloquially known as ‘la mili’ in Spanish, began in the late 18th and 19th centuries and officially ended in December 2001. During the last two decades, military conscription has been abandoned by some European countries in an attempt to shift towards volunteer armies and increase professionalism and specialised training in the defence forces. However, in 2024, National Service or ‘military conscription’ seems to be experiencing a general comeback in Europe. The country of Latvia passed a law in April 2023 calling for the mandatory reintroduction of military conscription after it was abolished in 2007. An issue that is currently apparent is the overall reduction of the sizes of European armies, which is crucial, especially amid the threat of Russia, which has undoubtedly created a new-found sense of anxiety for the ever present possibility of war. In France, a law was passed by parliament in 2018 that would require some type of military services for all genders beginning in 2024.

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Photo credit: Normandy Victory Museum Linda Hall RANDY BUELENS wants 99-year-old Chester P Sloan, a D-Day veteran nicknamed Buck, to return to Normandy on June 6. Buck, 20 at the time, was posted to Normandy a few weeks after the initial landings and sent to Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, part of the Second Infantry Division known as the Indian Head Division. As a gunner he took part in the fierce battles to liberate Brest and after fighting in Brittany was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge waged in the densely-forested ArD-DAY VETERAN: Chester P Sloan, nicknamed Buck on dennes region between Belgium an earlier visit to Normandy. and Luxembourg. “I met Buck for the first time five so many years later. It is and always will be years ago, during the Battle of the Bulge a big part of his life,” Randy said. anniversary,” Randy (26) told Vlaamse Ra“Unfortunately, Buck cannot afford the dio and Television (VRT). trip but now is really the time to honour “He was the first veteran I met and that veterans like him. They are all in their late was really an overwhelming experience,” 90s or early 100s and in a few years, there he added. will be no more veterans.” “I sent Buck a letter afterwards to thank Randy hopes to raise €4,000 via crowhim and he invited me to Houston,” Randy dfunding, and at last count had reached said, explaining that he has now visited €3,785. Buck three times. “That money will mainly pay for his Buck celebrates his 100th birthday on plane tickets and stay in Normandy. This June 1 and Randy hopes he can visit Euro- time, his wife Shirley will join him, which pe to attend the 80th D-Day anniversary. means that a decent sum is needed,” he “It is still hugely important to him, even said.

SPAIN’S allure has once again reached pre-pandemic levels, drawing over 84 million visitors in 2023, a statistic that highlights its status as a much sought-after tourist destination. For many years, Spain has become an irresistible holiday spot for the British. But, it’s not just about sun, sea and sand, a recent study has revealed the UK’s top favourite cities in Spain Part of the attraction is of course the Spanish climate. The culture of living outdoors, with bustling bars and restaurants is reportedly one of the biggest draws. Additionally, Spain’s affordability, combined with excellent travel connections, makes it a preferred destination for those seeking a cost-effective holiday. According to Spanish

Credit: Marques/Shutterstock.com

Unsentimental journey Brits still love Spain

CULTURAL HERITAGE: Torre del Oro of Sevilla, Andalucia.

media, certain cities have a special place in the hearts of British tourists. • Barcelona, renowned for its sunny disposition and cultural vibrancy comes top of the list. • Valencia, known for its year-round seaside paella, is the second favourite • Madrid, the heart of authentic Spanish tapas and pinchos, ranks third. The city’s charm lies in its ability to offer long, sunny walks and a vibrant street life, away from overwhelming crowds.

• San Sebastian is next, with its culinary excellence and scenic location make it a year-round destination for food enthusiasts. • Sevilla, described as, a city with a tangible cultural heritage stands out as a non-traditional choice for the British. Far from the stereotypes of sun, sea, or party-style drunken tourism, they cater to visitors seeking to immerse themselves in Spain’s varied gastronomic and cultural experiences.

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IRELAND Toy story AN investigation into broadcaster RTE’s Toy Show The Musical found there was no record that the RTE Board ever gave its approval for the musical at Dublin’s Convention Centre in December 2022. Expert advice was allegedly ignored and the project accumulated €2.2 million in losses after a shortfall in ticket sales.

Free trees TRINITY COLLEGE, Dublin, gave away more than 100 birch seedlings that sprang up during 2023’s No Mow May initiative to provide wildflowers for pollinators. As the seedlings grew, the lawns were left unmown until the following September, after which they were potted and cared for by the university’s gardeners.

SWEDEN

euroweeklynews.com II EUROPEAN PRESS

EUROPRESS NORWAY Here to stay KING HARALD once more stressed that unlike Queen Margarethe of Denmark, he had no plans to abdicate in favour of his son and heir, Prince Haakon. King Harald, who will be 87 on February 21 said that he swore an oath to parliament when he came to the throne 33 years ago “and it is for life,” he added. KING HARALD: Norway’s king has no intention of abdicating.

ITALY

GERMANY Joint plan HEALTH minister Karl Lauterbach expects the Bundestag national parliament to pass the Cannabis Act legalising marihuana in February. The new legislation could come into force by April, despite opposition from some regions, including Bavaria, and even members of Lauterbach’s own Social Democrats party.

Keep clear

Photo credit: CC/Samediggi-Sametinget

FRANCE

ANTI-ABORTION activists could soon face fines of up to €5,000 for demonstrating or approaching the public within a 100-metre radius of family planning centres or clinics where terminations are performed. Once a draft law goes through, they are also prevented from displaying intimidating posters or handing out leaflets.

DENMARK

Work permits

Not so hot

All the same

Old words

SWEDEN’S Migration Agency issued 102,139 new resident permits in 2023, a 28 per cent reduction on the 143,179 granted in 2022. These included 36,000 work permits which, again, were down on the previous year’s 41,396, with the majority issued to berry pickers, IT architects, system developers and test leaders.

THE famous calendar featuring ‘hot’ young priests on sale in Rome’s newspaper kiosks and souvenir shops is an annual bestseller, although the photographer responsible for the photos admitted that few are actually priests. “But the intention was to give a profile to priests as a symbol of Rome,” he told Il Post newspaper.

THE French government intends to “erase inequality and create conditions for respect” by introducing uniforms in all state school pupils, beginning with a trial period for 100 chosen centres. According to the national media, the authorities have settled on a white or grey polo shirt, a blue jersey and grey trousers.

RUNES were the alphabet of Denmark’s earliest written language and archaeologists believe they have located the oldest inscription yet discovered in Odense on the island of Funen. Etched 2,000 years ago on an eight-centimetre knife found in a grave there, the five characters spell out ‘hirila’, meaning ‘little sword’.

Hack attack

Foraging mishap

Breathe easy

Careful move

ALONG with other public authorities, the Swedish parliament was affected by a ransomware hit on IT supplier Tietoevry’s data centre by the Russian group Akira between January 20 and 21. This involved Primula, a human resources system that is used by 120 public bodies including the parliament offices.

BRITON Steven Harper (38), who had planned to cycle from Dundee to India, plummeted to his death from a cliff in Ventimiglia, presumably on becoming delirious after eating foraged wild mushrooms. Helicoptered to hospital after he was seen falling, the father of two died of injuries caused by the fall.

ANALYSES carried out for the regional transport system found ‘high particle pollution’ at the Belleville, Oberkampf and Jaures metro stations in Paris. Environmentalists had already attributed the high air pollution in some parts of the metro system to the trains’ mechanical brakes applied each time they came to a stop.

DENMARK will grant more work permits for immigrants who work in the social care sector, after MPs and the government reached agreement on increasing the country’s Positive List scheme for ‘desired professions’. This will now enable 1,000 foreign applicants to enter the country to work in the care sector.

BELGIUM

THE NETHERLANDS

FINLAND

PORTUGAL

Pay up

Eco-friendly

Less aid

Name sakes

BELGIUM’S expatriate tax scheme, introduced in 1983 for residents who were hired from abroad, came to an end in January 2024. Only residents who earn more than an annual €75,000 gross or are engaged in scientific, industrial, technological or academic research are now eligible for the scheme.

A SURVEY by two labour economists found that an increasing number of residents would prefer to work for a climate-conscious company rather than a firm without sustainability goals. Some said that they would be willing to take a ‘considerable’ cut in their wages in order to work for a sustainable employer.

FINLAND’S Foreign Trade and Development ministry confirmed that the government is cutting foreign aid, multilateral co-operation, humanitarian assistance, development loans and investments by more than a billion euros. This includes discontinuing the Afghanistan, Kenya, Mozambique and Myanmar programmes.

PORTUGAL’S Statistics Institute (INE) revealed that the country’s four most-encountered names were Maria for females and Francisco, Tiago and Duarte (a variation on Eduardo) for males. Most common surnames were found to be Silva, Nunes, Santos and Ferreira, the same source announced.

Extra mile FOOD packaging in Flanders will include information about animal production standards, identifying products from companies that follow ethical procedures when raising animals. “The public can now see which producers go the extra mile for animal welfare and which do not,” Flanders’ Animal Welfare ministry said.

Not wanted A TOTAL of 1,040 British residents had to leave the Schengen area as well as Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland in 2023. The Netherlands was responsible for 275 expulsions, more than any other nation, after Brits overstayed, had residence and work permits rejected or, in some cases, committed serious crimes.

Northern lights THE forecasting service introduced 20 years ago to inform the public when they are most likely to see the aurora borealis uses fluctuations in the Earth’s magnetic field to predict the chances of aurora appearances. This has now has been ‘significantly upgraded’ to enhance accuracy, Finland’s meteorological service said.

Fado feature THE Poor Things film soundtrack composed by British pop musician Jerskin Fendrix has been nominated for Best Original Score in the upcoming Oscars to be held next month. This includes a Fado performed by Carminho who has a role in the film, singing and playing the guitar in an imaginary Lisbon.

www.vosshomesspain.com

FINANCE BUSINESS EXTRA Fizz sells

CHAPEL DOWN, which produces English sparkling wine in Kent, announced sales of £15 million (€17.5 million) in 2023, a 14 per cent increase as the company nabbed part of Champagne’s market share. Turnover had also been assisted by a 12 per cent increase in prices, chief executive Andrew Carter said.

Car sales

THE Spanish government received €724 million from vehicle registration tax in 2023. This was more than at any time since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, and also the highest figure since the record sum of €1.08 billion charged during the pre-crisis boom year of 2008, tax authority Hacienda’s record showed.

Boohoo move

AFTER occupying the post for two years, Boohoo’s chief financial officer Shaun McCabe resigned ‘with immediate effect’ by mutual agreement on January 23. His role in the company, which owns Karen Millen, PrettyLittleThing and Dorothy Perkins. will be taken over by former Betfair and Zoopla executive Stephen Morana.

Long story short

SPAIN’S National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) is examining documents provided by pharmaceuticals company Grifols, accused of misrepresenting its debts and financial position by short sellers Gotham City Research.

Milk run

WINCANTON, a haulage company founded in 1925 to transport milk, agreed a £765 million (€894.4 million) takeover by a subsidiary of CMA CGA, the French shipping and logistics company. This is owned by billionaire Rodolphe Saade and his family, whose combined wealth is estimated at $9.8 billion (€9.05 billion).

euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 February 2024

STAT OF WEEK

€30.3 billion

was paid out in dividends to shareholders in companies quoted on Spain’s Ibex 35 index in 2023, the highest figure since 2019 and 16.6 per cent up on 2022.

Never on Saturday

Linda Hall ROYAL MAIL could save £650 million (€760.8 million) annually by delivering letters three days each week. Eliminating now-obligatory Saturday deliveries and distributing letters five times a week would save between £100 million (€117.1 million) and £200 million (€234.2 million), Ofcom, the UK’s Communications regulator, said. Future changes could include first and second-class deliveries taking up to three days or longer, with a next-day service for urgent letters. Calculating that the universal service obligation

Photo credit: CC/kitmasterbloke

ROYAL MAIL: Saturday deliveries could be phased out.

(USO) costs Royal Mail between £325 million (€380.4 million) and £675 million (€790.1 million), Ofcom also suggested maintaining Saturday deliveries while supporting the company with a state subsidy or a levy on other industry operators.

CRYPTOCURRENCY is joining forces with sport through crypto fan tokens. These allow football fans to invest in their club while giving them a say in management decisions as well as access to some exclusives. But do they make a profit on their investment? Crypto tax experts CoinLedger analysed the actions of fan tokens in 2023. Using this data they calculated how much a $100 (€91.80) fan token investment made on January 1, 2023 would be worth 12 months later. “For context, Bitcoin had a 155.18

Ofcom’s chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes stressed that postal workers were “critical” to Britain’s communities. “But we’re sending half as many letters as we did in 2011 and receiving many more parcels,” she said.

Dawes added that the USO, which has not changed since then, was out of date and would become financially and operationally unsustainable unless action was taken. An Ofcom survey found that reliable letter deliveries was important for 88 per cent of respondents while Saturday deliveries were still important for 58 per cent, compared with 63 per cent in 2020. Meanwhile, Postal Affairs minister Kevin Hollinrake told a Radio Times interviewer that Britain’s PM, Rishi Sunak was “very clear” that a six-day delivery was important for people and businesses.

Highs and lows Photo credit: CC/Beric Dondarrion

BOLOGNA FC: Italian team gave best return on fan tokens.

per cent increase in 2023 so $100 invested in Bitcoin on January 1, 2023, was worth $255.17 (€234.23) on January 1, 2024,” CoinLedger explained.

Football apart, the experts found that Bologna FC gave the best return. Bologna is one of Italy’s few sides with fan tokens, which in January 2023 cost $0.24 (€0.22) each. A $100 outlay would now be worth $273.48 (€251.10) an increase of 173.48 per cent while outperforming Bitcoin by 18.3 per cent in 2023. Barcelona FC, however, languished three from the bottom on CoinLedger’s list, as its $3.49 (€3.20) fan tokens fell to $2.29 (€2.10), with the initial $100 now worth (€60.18).

Hypocritical Thriving regions Vegan rescue

TATA, confirmed on January 19 that it would close Port Talbot’s two blast furnaces, resulting in 2,800 job losses. Citing the need to reduce carbon emissions, the steelworks’ India-based owners said the furnaces would be replaced with an electric arc furnace, prompting accusations of “gross hypocrisy” from the unions. According to reports in the Guardian, they said this environmental excuse was contradicted by Tata’s plans for a giant blast furnace at its Kalinganagar industrial centre in eastern India. The workers and the unions also criticised the UK government, which they said should have offered more financial incentives to persuade Tata to support domestic steel production.

SPAIN’S northern regions are expected to drive the increase in 2024’s gross domestic product (GDP). “Goods manufacturing will continue to be the economy’s principal energiser,” BBVA Research’s latest Regional Analysis predicted, with Cantabria and Navarra leading the country’s growth rate. A slowdown in exports, coupled with still-high energy prices and increased interest rates had combined to produce a generalised cutback in regional forecasts, BBVA Research said. The Basque Region, Aragon, Galicia, Castilla y Leo, Cantabria and Navarra economies were expected to grow by just over 2 per cent in 2024 compared with Spain’s national average of 1.5 per cent, three-10ths less than last autumn’s estimates. BBVA Research foresaw more economic brio in 2025 with growth averaging 2.5 per cent thanks to increased domestic and European demand, as well as tourism.

HEATHER MILLS has saved her VBites company from collapse. A £1 million (€1.17 million) deal brought the business out of administration after escalating overheads and competition from cheaper vegan rivals had left Mills with losses of £3.1 million (€3.6 million). She complained at the time that she received only three days’ notice of the administration notice. Although the rescue covers Mills’ assets and factories in County Durham and Northamptonshire, 64 VBites employees were made redundant, although Beatle Paul McCartney’s ex-wife has pledged to reinstate them.

Big names ONE of the newly-created Hyperion Fund FCR’s partners has been revealed as Pablo Casado, president of the Partido Popular party until April 2022. The venture capital fund will focus on aerospace, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and dual-use defence items, excluding arms and lethal material, which also have civilian applications. “This growth equity fund aims to raise €150 million and invest in emerging European technological companies, paying particular attention to small and medium Spanish companies while supporting their growth,” Hyperion said. Ricardo Gomez-Acebo Botin, nephew of Santander chair Ana Botin, was named as another of the fund’s five partners.

Offer almost accepted TELEFONICA’S holding in its Germany subsidiary increased from 71.81 per cent to 93.10 per cent. The €1.48 billion cash operation was carried out by Telefonica’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Telefonica Local Services. The offer announced in November 2023 was accepted by 7.86 per cent of Telefónica Deutschland’s shareholders although Telefonica had also acquired approximately 13.43 per cent of the German subsidiary’s share capital and voting rights. This included the settlement of financial instruments that gave the Spanish multinational the right to acquire approximately 1.32 per cent of Telefonica Deutschland’s share capital.

Paper woes BRITAIN’s government should intensify the investigation into the Telegraph takeover, former Health minister Neil O’Brien said. RedBird IMI, the Abu Dhabi-backed investment fund mainly financed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s vice-president and Manchester City FC owner, is settling the Telegraph owners’ £1.6 billion debt with Lloyds Bank. Once the operation was completed, RedBird maintained it would convert the loan to take possession of the publication and it could still decide its ownership even if the bid were blocked.

28 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3I Group.....................................2.432,00.............+21,00........... +0,87%...........1,42M Admiral Group.............................2.503,0............... -14,0.............-0,56%........... 17,14K Airtel Africa................................. 123,50................ -1,90.............-1,51%........... 98,50K Anglo American...........................1.875,8............... -12,4.............-0,66%.......... 173,70K Antofagasta................................1.697,00.............. -3,00.............-0,18%........... 32,51K Ashtead Group............................5.234,0............... -10,0.............-0,19%........... 25,13K Associated British Foods.............2.382,4................ -1,6..............-0,07%........... 30,22K AstraZeneca...............................10.602,0..............+56,0............ +0,53%.......... 43,71K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 739,60................ -2,20.............-0,30%.......... 146,53K Aviva........................................... 436,99................ -0,61.............-0,14%.......... 128,51K B&M European Value Retail SA... 537,80................ -0,40.............-0,07%........... 95,95K BAE Systems..............................1.191,50.............+23,50........... +2,01%......... 278,32K Barclays...................................... 149,74................+0,50............ +0,34%...........1,69M Barratt Developments................. 537,60................ -5,40.............-0,99%.......... 105,10K Beazley........................................ 543,50................ -1,50.............-0,28%........... 38,83K Berkeley......................................4.813,0............... -52,0.............-1,07%............ 4,44K BP............................................... 469,70................+8,00............ +1,73%...........2,79M British American Tobacco...........2.373,0...............+40,0............ +1,72%......... 375,83K BT Group.................................... 115,20................ -1,00.............-0,86%.......... 756,32K Bunzl...........................................3.177,0................ -7,0..............-0,22%........... 18,03K Burberry Group...........................1.334,5................ -7,0..............-0,52%........... 57,32K Centrica....................................... 137,22................ -0,43.............-0,31%.......... 725,24K Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.345,0................+3,0............. +0,13%.......... 13,72K Compass....................................2.161,00.............+14,00........... +0,65%.......... 93,92K ConvaTec Group......................... 238,60................ -1,80.............-0,75%........... 57,88K Croda Intl....................................4.697,0............... -59,0.............-1,24%........... 13,04K DCC.............................................5.716,0............... -44,0.............-0,76%............ 4,84K Diageo.........................................2.865,0...............+16,0............ +0,56%......... 241,32K Diploma.....................................3.306,00............. -28,00............-0,84%........... 10,34K DS Smith.................................... 288,10................ -3,20.............-1,10%.......... 135,49K Endeavour Mining......................1.434,00..............+8,00............ +0,56%.......... 14,81K Entain.......................................... 956,80............... -10,40............-1,08%........... 82,07K Experian......................................3.266,0................+8,0............. +0,25%.......... 47,27K F&C Invest.................................. 966,00................ -1,00.............-0,10%........... 55,54K Flutter Entertainment..................16.265,0.............. -60,0.............-0,37%............ 9,21K Frasers........................................ 808,50................+2,50............ +0,31%.......... 68,77K Fresnillo...................................... 510,00...............+11,20........... +2,25%.......... 50,34K Glencore...................................... 419,90................ -2,80.............-0,66%.......... 786,58K GSK plc......................................1.550,60.............+13,60........... +0,89%......... 162,34K HALEON...................................... 320,60................+2,80............ +0,88%......... 755,20K Halma..........................................2.163,0............... -32,0.............-1,46%........... 23,58K Hikma Pharma...........................1.904,00..............+4,00............ +0,21%........... 6,67K Howden Joinery.......................... 808,00................ -4,60.............-0,57%........... 18,38K HSBC.......................................... 621,23................+4,33............ +0,70%...........1,26M IAG.............................................. 151,85................ -2,20.............-1,43%............1,01M IMI PLC......................................1.679,00..............+9,00............ +0,54%.......... 32,97K Imperial Brands..........................1.947,32.............+13,32........... +0,69%......... 137,85K Informa....................................... 774,00................+2,60............ +0,34%.......... 70,09K InterContinental..........................7.484,0................+2,0............. +0,03%.......... 15,14K

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

Intermediate Capital...................1.789,00............. -26,00............-1,43%........... 61,69K Intertek........................................4.506,0...............+48,0............ +1,08%.......... 11,35K J Sainsbury................................. 274,30................ -1,70.............-0,62%.......... 170,23K JD Sports Fashion....................... 117,60................ -0,20.............-0,17%.......... 277,22K Kingfisher.................................... 220,50................ -4,60.............-2,04%.......... 275,78K Land Securities........................... 659,80................ -0,60.............-0,09%........... 44,89K Legal & General.......................... 254,74................ -0,76.............-0,30%.......... 654,80K Lloyds Banking............................ 42,14.................+0,04............ +0,10%...........5,92M London Stock Exchange..............9.044,0............... -26,0.............-0,29%........... 48,73K M&G........................................... 226,50................ -0,30.............-0,13%.......... 202,82K Marks & Spencer........................ 255,86................ -0,04.............-0,02%.......... 273,54K Melrose Industries...................... 585,48................+4,08............ +0,70%......... 123,98K Mondi.........................................1.459,00............. -32,55............-2,18%........... 55,40K National Grid..............................1.056,00.............+12,50........... +1,20%......... 308,72K NatWest Group........................... 223,80................ -0,20.............-0,09%............1,46M Next............................................8.488,0............... -20,0.............-0,23%............ 2,79K Ocado.......................................... 563,39............... -12,41............-2,16%........... 80,41K Pearson....................................... 973,20................+7,20............ +0,74%.......... 50,52K Pershing Square........................3.700,00.............+22,00........... +0,60%.......... 14,80K Phoenix....................................... 518,56................ -3,24.............-0,62%.......... 110,33K Prudential.................................... 846,00............... -12,20............-1,42%.......... 281,97K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.648,0............... -10,0.............-0,18%........... 42,49K Relx............................................3.289,00.............+13,00........... +0,40%......... 137,33K Rentokil....................................... 401,20................ -2,80.............-0,69%.......... 389,32K Rightmove.................................. 558,60................ -4,80.............-0,85%........... 39,61K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.565,0...............+16,0............ +0,29%.......... 97,73K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 303,70................ -1,70.............-0,56%............1,08M RS PLC....................................... 765,00................ -2,40.............-0,31%........... 24,19K Sage...........................................1.172,75.............. -5,75.............-0,49%.......... 136,32K Schroders.................................... 407,3................. -17,8.............-4,19%.......... 248,22K Scottish Mortgage....................... 777,00................ -4,40.............-0,56%.......... 121,23K Segro.......................................... 860,60................ -4,60.............-0,53%........... 58,91K Severn Trent...............................2.553,0................ -5,0..............-0,20%............ 9,42K Shell............................................2.469,0...............+39,5............ +1,63%......... 585,72K Smith & Nephew........................1.093,55............. -11,45............-1,04%........... 55,73K Smiths Group.............................1.651,00.............. -5,50.............-0,33%........... 10,64K Smurfit Kappa.............................3.054,0............... -46,0.............-1,48%........... 48,55K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........9.916,0............... -54,0.............-0,54%............ 3,82K SSE............................................1.677,50............. -20,50............-1,21%.......... 323,99K St. James’s Place........................ 659,00............... -11,80............-1,76%........... 73,64K Standard Chartered..................... 609,00................+3,00............ +0,49%......... 132,07K Taylor Wimpey............................ 145,45................ -0,85.............-0,58%.......... 352,09K Tesco.......................................... 294,60................+1,10............ +0,38%......... 722,18K Unilever.......................................3.828,5................+5,0............. +0,13%......... 154,90K Unite..........................................1.002,00.............. -7,00.............-0,69%........... 17,83K United Utilities............................1.056,00.............. -1,50.............-0,14%........... 36,68K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 70,550............... -0,210............-0,30%............3,78M Weir Group................................1.812,82.............. -4,18.............-0,23%.......... 194,05K Whitbread...................................3.630,0............... -16,0.............-0,44%........... 15,78K WPP............................................ 770,00................+1,40............ +0,18%......... 101,04K

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on previous page 0.85295

1.17273

Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.0836 Japan yen (JPY)...................................160.27 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9329 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4536 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.278 currenciesdirect.com/mojacar • Tel: +34 950 478 914 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3M............................................... 96,00.................+0,02............ +0,02%...........3,63M American Express....................... 201,41...............+13,34........... +7,09%..........12,22M Amgen........................................ 311,77................+1,51............ +0,49%...........1,96M Apple........................................... 192,42................ -1,75.............-0,90%...........41,89M Boeing......................................... 205,50................+3,62............ +1,79%...........9,80M Caterpillar.................................... 299,41................ -1,36.............-0,45%............2,36M Chevron...................................... 149,15................+0,58............ +0,39%...........7,50M Cisco............................................ 52,14................. -0,19.............-0,36%...........12,58M Coca-Cola..................................... 59,37.................+0,21............ +0,36%..........12,16M Dow............................................. 54,06................. -0,88.............-1,60%............5,11M Goldman Sachs........................... 377,88................ -4,82.............-1,26%............3,38M Home Depot................................ 355,30................+4,33............ +1,23%...........2,95M Honeywell................................... 201,80................ -0,76.............-0,38%............1,74M IBM............................................. 187,36................ -3,07.............-1,61%............9,32M Intel.............................................. 43,65................. -5,90............-11,91%.........126,74M J&J............................................. 159,51................ -0,05.............-0,03%............4,35M JPMorgan................................... 172,28................ -0,66.............-0,38%............7,14M McDonald’s................................. 292,30................ -4,91.............-1,65%............3,98M Merck&Co................................... 120,81................+0,68............ +0,57%...........7,37M Microsoft.................................... 403,93................ -0,94.............-0,23%...........16,33M Nike............................................. 102,73................+1,96............ +1,95%...........8,63M Procter&Gamble......................... 156,15................+0,53............ +0,34%...........6,85M Salesforce Inc............................. 279,96................+0,93............ +0,33%...........4,73M The Travelers.............................. 211,45................ -0,07.............-0,03%.......... 921,82K UnitedHealth............................... 503,13................+9,73............ +1,97%...........6,10M Verizon......................................... 42,40.................+0,11............ +0,25%..........19,33M Visa A.......................................... 267,90................ -4,71.............-1,73%............8,36M Walgreens Boots.......................... 22,85................. -0,26.............-1,13%...........10,06M Walmart...................................... 164,29................+1,45............ +0,89%...........3,68M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Change Net / %

Volume

Most Advanced AppFolio, Inc....................................................+28.26%.........................1.859M Galaxy Digital Holdings Ltd..............................+17.10%........................ 409,729 Lonza Group AG...............................................+14.04%........................ 788,176 Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation........+13.58%..........................2.37M Rémy Cointreau SA..........................................+13.37%........................ 163,990 Fanuc Corporation............................................+10.20%......................... 15,083 Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc..........................+9.71%.........................87.559M SGS SA.............................................................+9.02%.......................... 53,559 Freedom Holding Corp......................................+8.40%......................... 409,501 Glacier Bancorp, Inc..........................................+8.35%..........................1.595M M - Million Dollars

Most Declined Hub Group, Inc................................................ -50.48%........................ 266,180 WuXi Biologics (Cayman) Inc.......................... -16.20%........................ 559,124 Intel Corporation.............................................. -11.91%.......................127.665M ZKH Group Limited........................................... -9.93%.......................... 66,872 Lenovo Group Limited...................................... -8.53%.......................... 74,559 Chart Industries, Inc......................................... -7.54%..........................1.807M Fair Isaac Corporation....................................... -6.85%......................... 407,235 KLA Corporation............................................... -6.60%..........................2.195M Lattice Semiconductor Corporation.................. -6.52%..........................4.218M RWE Aktiengesellschaft.................................... -5.86%......................... 129,769 CG Oncology, Inc.............................................. -5.76%..........................1.719M M - Million Dollars

FINANCE II euroweeklynews.com ASK THE EXPERT PETER LOVEDAY Peter Loveday Contact me at euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com Contact me at

Euro EUR/GBP: Down from £0.86 to £0.85 EUR/USD: Down from $1.10 to $1.08 The euro got off to a poor start in 2024 as some disappointing data raised concerns over the Eurozone’s economic trajectory. The euro’s negative correlation with the US dollar also acted as a headwind for the single currency in recent weeks, amid a revival in demand for the safe-haven ‘greenback’. Hawkish commentary from the European Central Bank (ECB) helped to temper the downside in EUR exchange rates throughout the month, as officials continued to push back against interest rate cut expectations. However, the euro still ticked lower again after the ECB’s first interest rate decision of the year, as President Christine Lagarde wasn’t perhaps as forceful in dispelling rate cut bets as EUR

1 - 7 February 2024

EWN 29

CURRENCY OUTLOOK: EURO TUMBLES ON LACKLUSTRE DATA, US DOLLAR BOLSTERED BY GLOOMY MOOD investors had hoped. Looking ahead to February, the euro may remain on the defensive if Eurozone economic data continues to disappoint. Pound GBP/EUR: Up from €1.15 to €1.16 GBP/USD: Unchanged at $1.27 The pound trended broadly higher over the past month, but its ascent did not come without hurdles. This came as a result of some uneven UK data. While Sterling was supported by stronger-than-expected service sector growth and a surprise acceleration in inflation, it also faced headwinds as underwhelming GDP and retail sales figures stoked UK recession fears. GBP exchange rates were also influenced by Bank of England (BoE) rate cut speculation. Bets that the BoE could begin loosening monetary policy as soon as

EURO: Got off to a poor start in 2024 with some disappointing data.

April infused some volatility into the Pound in the latter half of the month. Looking ahead, the start of February will see the BoE deliver its first interest rate decision of 2024. No policy changes are expected next month, but the BoE’s forward guidance could provide a boost to the pound if it seeks to quell rate cut speculation.

US Dollar USD/GBP: Unchanged at $0.78 USD/EUR: Up from €0.90 to €0.91 The US dollar found its footing again in January, helping the currency to claw back a good portion of its losses from December. This recovery in ‘greenback’ has been driven primarily by risk-off flows as growing tensions in the Middle East and

concerns over China’s economy have stoked demand for the safe-haven currency. USD exchange rates have also been supported by a repricing of Federal Reserve rate cut bets. With the odds for a March rate cut having fallen from over 70% to around 50%. This comes in response to some stronger-than-expected US economic releases. The immediate focus for USD investors will be the Fed’s impending interest rate decision. Will the US central bank lean into expectations for a March rate hike? Or will the Fed adopt a more hawkish tone in order to quash this speculation? Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

VISIT US AT OUR SPANISH OFFICES IN COSTA DEL SOL, COSTA ALMERIA, NORTH COSTA BLANCA AND SOUTH COSTA BLANCA. TELEPHONE UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 • EMAIL EUROWEEKLY@CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM • WWW.CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM.

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

Frightening to the core LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT DELIGHTED to see Trump still forging ahead in his race to re-establish the Republican crown; thereby bolstering his indomitable ambitions to regain his position in the White House. Before all you Trump haters start mailing in your, ‘anti Leapy’s opinions’ rhetoric, don’t get me wrong, I personally can’t stand the man. To me he is an egotistical, arrogant and utterly dangerous individual. Unfortunately, in today’s day and age, his reputation is exactly what the West requires to steer it through a minefield of world leaders who are bloated with precisely the same qualities. The soft woke approach of those affiliated to the doddering Biden and his implausible bunch of leftie helpers, especially his woke riddled vice president Kamala Harris is actually inviting disaster. ‘Fighting for the people’, which she continues to advocate, is simply in no way formidable enough to compete and even keep the peace (or pace) in a world that is run by the despotic likes

of Putin, Jinping, Khamenei and Kim Jong-un! If anybody can frighten these tyrants into hunkering down into negotiations it is an imperious autocrat like Mr Trump. One thing is for sure, the presidential contender is frightening all his political rivals to the very core. Have no doubt that those involved in the ‘Trump Hunt’ are wallowing in deep symposiums far into the night; all taking place in boardrooms comprised of individuals totally aware that should Trump be once again ensconced in the oval office, it’ll be bye bye to the lot of ‘em. Excluding of course those who see the popularity of their present administration slipping away and raise their heads above the parapet swearing their allegiance to the new leader before they get drummed into oblivion with the rest. (Heaven forbid they would need to sell the yacht or move into a smaller house!) At this moment however they are attempting just about every twist and turn they can to discredit their formidable rival before the votes pour in. They’ve even come up with a distinctly unwell woman who has managed to win a case against him for a rape accusation occurring years ago. The judgment,

undoubtedly brought about by members of the Biden supporters club, has awarded the ‘victim’ some 83 million dollars even though Trump professes to have never even met her. Maybe he has, maybe he hasn’t. I doubt if those who sat in judgment even actually cared. The important thing is the ‘Trump Hunt’ and the discredit it can bring. I also seem to recall this almost certainly equivalent legal mob, somehow damping down a highly illegal state of affairs concerning Biden’s son during his Dad’s own race for the White House. In fact these investigations have been going on pretty unobtrusively for years. Somewhat unsurprisingly it has recently resulted in a plea deal with prosecutors which avoids jail time and quietly squashes any insensitive talking points in the run up to Dad’s new presidential endeavours. What a bunch. Let’s just hope all these trumped up accusations actually come up trumps for Trumps triumph. Or you can probably deal us all out. Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

An obvious scam Paul Edwards SOMETIMES one has to wonder who is most stupid, scammers or those who fall for what are obviously ill conceived and simply impossible scams. Happily, the average reader of Euro Weekly News is a lot brighter than the idiots behind what has been an ongoing attempted scam for several years. We were sent this by a reader who lives in Costa Blanca and received an email purportedly from the Head of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Interpol accusing them of all kinds of nefarious activities. They are asked to respond to this email which has mysteriously found its way from Canada to Brazil (it reads cesar@ aluno.edu.jaru.ro.gov. br) confirming which jurisdiction they live in so that the necessary

Credit: hackNY.org flickr

30 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

All a scammer needs is a computer and email account.

warrant can be served on them. Clearly the hope is that the person receiving the email will respond and thus their email address is verified which leaves them open to further approaches from the potential scammers. To some extent it would make some element of sense if you live in Canada to receive an email from the Canadian Police (even though it’s obviously false) but the mentality of those sending this accusation to Spain almost beggars belief.

NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

easyJet sale EASYJET’S Big Orange Sale has set new records, with an unprecedented demand for flights and package holidays, marking a remarkable start to the year. During this record-breaking sale, easyJet experienced its busiest booking phase, filling two aeroplanes every minute at peak times. Flights to Amsterdam, Paris, Alicante, and Malaga emerged as top choices among travellers since the sale’s inception. Greek island Skiathos, Calabria in Italy, and Rovaniemi in Lapland witnessed a significant increase in popularity compared to 2023. For 2024, Central European spots like Zadar in Croatia and Tivat in Montenegro also gained traction, alongside increased bookings to French cities such as Rennes and La Rochelle. Geneva, Lyon, and Innsbruck are leading the way for ski holidays. May has been the most popular month for summer flight bookings since the sale’s start, aligning with half-term deals to destinations like Palma de Mallorca, Malaga, and Faro. August is shaping up to be the preferred month for package holiday departures. Palma de Mallorca remains the top pick for peak summer flight bookings, and Copenhagen has seen a rise in po-

Credit: nitpicker/Shutterstock.com

EASYJET: Its busiest booking phase.

pularity, partly due to its proximity to Malmo, the host city for this year’s Eurovision song contest. Over a third of these bookings were made by families, with a significant 70 per cent opting for four star or five star accommodations. The all-inclusive option dominated, chosen by over 60 per cent of beach holidaymakers. easyJet CEO Johan Lundgren stated, “With flights and holidays bookings taking off during this traditionally busy booking period as well as strong booking momentum for summer 2024, we continue to see that the value and importance of holidays for our customers.”

World’s costliest drug LIBMELDY, the world’s most expensive drug which costs €2.8 million, will be available in Ireland, Belgium and the Netherlands. Health services in the three countries have approved the groundbreaking gene therapy Atidarsagene autotemcel - sold as Libmeldy - Ireland’s Health minister Stephen Donnelly announced. With a price tag of €2.8 million per one-off dose, the drug developed by Orchard Therapeutics treats metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), a rare and life-threatening inherited disease that affects the metabolic system in children. Libmeldy took 20 years to develop, with a 10-year interval between the first human trials and approval from the European Medicines Agency which arrived in 2020. Ireland, Belgium and the Netherlands have

Photo credit: Pixabay/Myriams-Fotos

LIBMELDY: The world’s most expensive drug available in Ireland, Belgiium and the Netherlands.

now negotiated a lower price through the Beneluxa initiative, which includes Luxembourg and Austria and was created to access medicines by talking directly to pharmaceutical companies. The Beneluxa talks started in December 2022 but ended after initially failing to reach agreement with the manufacturer. The final cost has not been disclosed but estimates vary from a reduc-

tion of between 25 and 65 per cent in some cases, according to Irish broadcaster RTE. Three children in Ireland are due to be treated over a five-year period and will travel to Spain for the procedure, which would originally have cost around €10 million, RTE said. “The drug will make a significant positive impact on the lives of the children with the condition,” Donnelly said.

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32 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

FRENCH FARMERS: Close access roads.

ched 1,240,000 tons, valued at €1.6 billion. Disruptions caused by French farmers’ protests in Le Boulou, France, led to significant traffic challenges. On Friday, January 26, the AP-7 was closed near La Jonquera in Girona, as reported by the Mossos d’Esquadra The Spanish government, while condemning the violent actions, respects the right to peaceful protest and free expression. However, the government ‘fully respects the right to demonstrate and freely express one’s opinion,’ but as long as it is done ‘peacefully, not with violent means or coercion.’

ADVERTISING FEATURE GRUPO PLATINUM ESTATES

A TOURIST’S lavish night out in which he treated people to rounds of drinks to the value of €8,000 has ended in him being arrested by police. A 66-year-old Icelandic man, who indulged in a wild spending spree, but then claimed he didn’t have the money to pay has been caught out in Tenerife. The incident happened on a busy night in the south of Tenerife, when the tourist reported being violently robbed. He claimed that the assailants made fraudulent transactions amounting to €8,000 using his stolen credit card. This report was made to the National Police which sparked an investigation into the alleged crime. The police, delving into the case, traced the transactions to a nightclub venue in Tenerife’s vibrant southern region. However, upon further investigation, a different story was revealed.

Credit: bbernard/Shutterstock.com

THE protests by French farmers are having a major impact on the lives of Spanish citizens with access roads being closed and even Spanish transporters now being targeted. The Spanish government has publicly denounced the recent vandalism targeting Spanish lorries in France, amidst agricultural protests disrupting road traffic and hindering the transportation of goods. Reportedly, Spanish authorities are closely monitoring the escalating situation in France, and spoke out against the damage inflicted upon their lorries by French farmers. These incidents, involving products like fruit, vegetables, and wine, were described by government sources as ‘absolutely unacceptable’. The Spanish Executive is maintaining an ongoing dialogue with French officials, ensuring a steady flow of information for addressing potential issues. January marks a peak in Spanish exports, with France being not only a key market but also a gateway to other European destinations. The volume of fresh fruits and vegetables exported in January 2023 rea-

Credit: prochasson frederic/Shutterstock.com

Tensions rise

‘Generous’ tourist arrested

CHEERS: The man generously treated fellow patrons.

Eyewitness accounts and transaction records showed that the man had spent several hours at the venue. He indulged in numerous drinks and generously offered rounds to fellow patrons. Remarkably the spending spree exactly matched the amount he later reported as stolen. The police, armed with compelling evidence, confronted the tourist at his hotel. They arrested him for falsifying a crime report.

It is important to note that pretending to be a victim or perpetrator of a crime, or reporting a non-existent crime, is a legal offence. In such cases, the law stipulates a fine ranging from six to 12 months. This peculiar case serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of deceit. It highlights the diligence of the National Police in uncovering the truth, ensuring justice prevails.

Property of the week • Ref. VPD17CBU • €139,200

The house of your dreams in a paradise

GRUPO PLATINUM ESTATES presents this beautiful duplex in the urbanisation of Las Buganvillas in Vera-Playa. The property has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as two terraces, one on the ground floor and the other one on the first floor. Do not miss the opportunity to live in this prestigious urbanisation with three swimming pools, surrounded by all the services and only a few metres from the beach. Call us now on +34 950 466 112 and make an appointment to visit your future home. With two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, this beautiful 106m2 duplex is a golden opportunity for those looking for a quiet home and quality of life on the Mediterranean coast. The property is accessed through a large terrace of 26m2. On the ground floor we find a hall, a spacious living-dining room, an open plan kitchen, one pantry-storage room and one complete bathroom.

BEAUTIFUL DUPLEX: Situated on a prestigious urbanisation very close to the beach.

Stairs lead up to the first floor where we find another complete bathroom and two large bedrooms, which share access to a 12m2 terrace with beautiful views of the urbanisation. It has ceiling fans in all rooms and air conditioning in the living room and master bedroom. Possibility of acquiring it furnished if you wish. The area of Vera Playa has unspoilt blue flag beaches and benefits from over 320 days of sunshine a year. The nearby fishing village of Garrucha (five minutes’ drive) is particularly well-known for its seafood restaurants. Tranquillity, activities, a fantastic gastronomic variety, beaches, swimming pools and the most important ingredient of all: the sun. The local airports are served by several low cost airlines, Almeria airport - 45 minutes drive; Murcia (Corvera Region of Murcia airport - around 60 minutes drive; Alicante airport - 1h 45 minutes drive.

Don’t hesitate and call us now to arrange a viewing on +34 950 466 112 Grupo Platinum Estates, your real estate agent in Vera Playa.

HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com

Luscious lips

ACHIEVING luscious, healthy lips is a combination of good care practices and mindful habits. Firstly, hydration is key; drinking plenty of water ensures your lips remain moisturised from the inside out. Regularly using a hydrating lip balm, especially one with SPF, protects and nourishes the delicate skin of the lips. Exfoliation is also important; gently scrubbing your lips with a sugar scrub once a week removes dead skin cells, revealing smoother lips. Avoid licking your lips as

ATTRACTIVE LIPS: Just in time for Valentine’s Day.

saliva can dry them out. Incorporating vitamins A, C, and E in your diet supports skin health, benefiting your lips too. Lastly, choose lip products wisely - opt for those with hydrating

WAXING is a popular hair removal method that offers several benefits over other techniques like shaving or hair removal creams. Firstly, waxing removes hair from the root, resulting in a smoother finish and a longer period of hairlessness, typically lasting three to six weeks. This method also exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and leaving the area feeling softer and more rejuvenated.

ingredients and avoid those with alcohol or allergens that can cause dryness. These simple, effective steps can help maintain soft, attractive lips yearround.

To wax or not? Over time, regular waxing can lead to finer and sparser hair regrowth, as the hair follicle weakens. Additionally, waxing reduces the risk of cuts and nicks that can occur with shaving, and avoids the harsh chemicals present in some hair removal creams, making it a safer option for sensitive skin.

1 - 7 February 2024

EWN 33

euroweeklynews.com II NEWS

Irish Oscars

THE 2024 Oscar nominations were recently announced with one of Ireland’s finest in the front-running for best actor. On Tuesday, January 23, in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Cillian Murphy was nominated. The announcement was made by Deadpool star Zazie Beetz and Jack Quaid, one of Murphy’s co-stars from the movie Oppenheimer, as the announcers. The former Peaky Blinders star Cillian Murphy, originally from Cork, is vying for the coveted Best Actor award for his stellar performance in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer. This film not only won critical acclaim, but also dominated the box office last summer. Murphy’s portrayal faces tough competition from Paul Giamatti of The Holdovers, a recent Golden Globe winner, as well as Bradley Cooper in Maestro, Colman Domingo of Rustin, and Jeffrey Wright in American Fiction. However, the intense competition in the Best Actor category meant that Andrew Scott - All Of Us Strangers and Barry Keoghan - Saltburn, both miss out, despite their highly-acclaimed performances. Similarly, Paul Mescal was overlooked for his performance in All Of Us Strangers, missing out on a Best Supporting Actor no-

Credit: Maximilian Buhn/Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0

OPPENHEIMER: Actor Cillian Murphy.

mination after his previous year’s nod for Aftersun. There’s more good news for Irish cinema. Element Pictures’ Poor Things garnered 11 nominations. Dublin-born Robbie Ryan also earned his second Oscar nomination for Best Cinematography for his work on the Emma Stone-led dark comedy. They all aim to follow in the footsteps of Everything Everywhere All at Once, last year’s winner. The 96th Academy Awards will be hosted for the fourth time by US talk-show host Jimmy Kimmel, and will be broadcast on March 10, promising a night of celebration and suspense for the film industry.

Selling second-hand A RECENT shift in European legislation has brought significant changes to private sellers using online platforms. As of January 1, 2024, platforms for buying and selling second-hand items, like Wallapop, Vinted, and eBay, are required to report to the tax authorities if users exceed certain sales thresholds. This regulation will influence the 2025 tax returns, not the 2023 returns filed in 2024. As a result, sales made throughout 2023 will not be considered as capital gains in the upcoming tax declaration. The types of activities that platforms need to report include property leasing, personal services, goods sales, and transportation leasing. Platforms will collect and send details such as bank data, quarterly income, number of sales, and any collected fees or taxes.

Credit: JHVEPhoto/shutterstock.com

34 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

EBAY: Now required to report users to the tax authorities.

The new regulations will not impact all users. Only those residing in the European Union, earning more than €2,000 throughout the year, or making 30 or more sales will be subject to this reporting. The requirement to report does not alter how these transactions are taxed. The tax is applicable only if there’s a capital gain, calculated as the difference between the buying and selling price. For instance, if you buy

a car for €2,000 and sell it for €2,800. These profits are taxed within the savings income at rates from 19 to 28 per cent. If no profit is made, no tax is due, but these cannot be declared as capital losses either. This means most users of these platforms are unlikely to owe taxes under the current rules. However, exceeding 30 transactions or earning over €2,000 will require users to provide tax data to the platform.

NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

A NEW era has begun for electric scooter enthusiasts. But what exactly does this mean for the future of urban mobility? As from January 22, electric scooters sold in Spain must possess a certification to legally operate on the streets. This move by the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) aims to uphold minimum safety and quality standards. Notably, scooters sold before this date can still be used without certification until January 22, 2027. What does it take for a scooter to be certified? First and foremost, they must have a speed indicator and two independent brakes. These scooters, defined as Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs), are single-seat, wheel-based transports powered solely by electric motors. Their maximum speed

Credit: tovsla/Shutterstock.com

Clampdown on scooters

ELECTRIC SCOOTERS: Speed control is now crucial.

is capped between six and 25 km/h. If the scooter is fitted with a seat or saddle, it must also have a self-balancing system. Speed control is crucial. The scooter’s motor will cease to propel the vehicle once it reaches 25 km/h. Additionally, an anti-tampering system is mandatory, preventing any modifications to increase speed. Visibility and safety are enhanced with required indicators for speed and battery level. Reflectors are a must: white at the

front, white or auto-yellow on the sides, and red at the rear. The brake light should be distinct or combined with the rear light. Furthermore, there is a stipulation for minimum wheel diameter, and tyres which must have tread for better traction. Scooters are not permitted on crossroads, interurban roads, highways, or through urban tunnels. pavement usage in cities is also prohibited. As recognised vehicles, their drivers must adhere to all traffic regulations.

EWN 35

36 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 Photo credit: Megan Mallen

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

PIEDEMONT: One of Italy’s principal wine-growing areas.

Fewer Italians

Linda Hall ITALY is drinking less wine. Analysis by the Unione Italiana Vini (Uiv)-Ismea Observatory based on figures from data specialist Nielsen found that the country’s supermarkets, stores and distributors sold just under one billion bottles of wine in 2023. This was 3.1 per cent less than in 2022, with an 8 per cent dip over the five years between 2018 and 2023. According to the Observatory, 2023 was “a complicated year” owing to changes in post-pandemic consumption habits and generalised price rises. Red wines took the hardest hit, with a 15 per cent slump over the past five years although 19 per cent more people bought sparkling wines and Prosecco in 2023 than they did in 2019, with sales of 139 million bottles. Rose enjoyed a 17 per cent increase

over this same period. But although the Italians might be drinking less wine than previously, the Observatory also found that they were becoming more discerning. Overall sales of wine with DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) label fell by just two per cent while white wine saw a 3 per cent increase since pre-pandemic 2019. The Observatory also found that people buying online ordered more DOP and TGI (Typical Geographical Indication) wines which accounted for 75 per cent of the total purchases of non-sparkling wines. Online purchases have increased threefold since 2019, the Observatory noted, although internet orders had declined by 21 per cent over the past two years, compared with the high of 2021.

Flight bomb scare

THE National Court has recently delivered a verdict in a case involving a young British man’s ‘joke’ bomb hoax, while he was about to board a flight to Menorca. On July 3, 2022, the accused, a 19-year-old man of Indian origin holding a British passport, sent a Snapchat message to a private group of friends while preparing to board a flight from London to Menorca. The message, which included a photo of himself and a text stating, ‘On the way to fly the plane (I am a member of the Taliban)’, was picked up by British security. The plane, flying over French airspace at the time, was then escorted by a Eurofighter from the Spanish air force to its destination in Menorca. Upon landing, the plane and its passengers

Credit: Juan Ci/Shutterstock.com

NOT GUILTY: The court decided it was meant as a joke.

underwent isolation and a thorough check, which confirmed the absence of any explosives or indications of a genuine threat. In his nine-page ruling, Judge Jose Manuel Fernandez-Prieto of the Central Criminal Court analysed the facts and the legal implications. He concluded that the accused’s actions did not constitute a crime. The judge noted that the message was intended as a private joke among friends,

with no evidence of any intention to provoke the mobilisation of security forces. The court remained uncertain about how British security services intercepted the private message, as this was not substantiated during the trial. This case highlights the delicate balance between personal jokes and public security, raising questions about privacy and the unforeseen impact of seemingly harmless actions.

INTERVIEW

Johanna from Finland Johanna Pesonen’s sister has lived in Spain for over 20 years, so her whole family have always had one foot on the ground here and one foot still in Finland. “THE weather is definitely the thing for me: here than in Finland is the bureaucracy, the sun and the relaxed atmosphere, things “I miss being able to do whatever I need that appealed far more than in my home online. Here you can lose an entire day country. If we could have this climate in in an office to sort out just one conFinland, we would be overpotract.” pulated,” said Johanna. Johanna visits Finland Johanna Pesonen is whenever possible, “I CEO of Fuengirola have my family thereal estate agency re, I have friends Huugo247 and there and I will has no regrets always have about moFinland as my ving here, “if home counanything it has try.” She went only got cleaon to say, “In rer that I may Finland we not be able to wait nine monever move back,” ths every year she said. for the sun so we For her the best can emerge from our thing about living on caves! Here, outside Johanna likes the outdoor life. the Costa del Sol is the activities are available possibility to enjoy outside life alall year round.” most every day of the year. “I am more actiLooking to the future Johanna believes ve in my free time here and have had more she will stay here for the rest of her life. “Of time for my family,” she added. course, you never know, but at the moment The only thing Johanna thinks is worse that’s how I feel,” she concluded.

FEATURE/NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

EWN 37

WITH the continual rise in grocery prices, navigating the supermarket without overspending is a challenge. Here are just a few tips on how to optimise your food expenses effectively. An obvious one, but creating a family shopping list is crucial. By collectively deciding on necessary items, you can avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials. It’s vital to follow this list strictly, resisting the lure of unnecessary purchases. Opting for store brands, often referred to as ‘white label’ products, can cut your grocery bill significantly. These products offer good quality at lower prices, with the potential of saving you around 35 to 45 per cent annually. This doesn’t mean forgoing all premium brands, rather, it’s about identifying where brand choice truly matters. In cases where brand isn’t a key factor, switching to more affordable store brands

Credit: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

Shop smart spend less Spain’s longest wall

MAKE SAVINGS: Avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials.

can make a big difference. The choice of supermarket can impact your budget substantially. The price difference for the same items can vary greatly among stores. Avoid shopping on an empty stomach to resist impulse buys, especially unhealthy snacks. Always compare the cost per kilo or unit, rather than just the total price. This helps in identifying truly cost-effective options. If you have ample storage, take advantage of bulk buying and special offers

like ‘buy one get one half price’ or ‘three for the price of two’ on items you regularly use. Finally, make the most of loyalty programmes offered by supermarkets such as Carrefour, Dia, Consum, or Alcampo for additional discounts and savings. Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce your supermarket spending, leading to substantial savings over time. Remember, small changes can make a big difference.

ADVERTISING FEATURE VOSS HOMES

WALLED cities are not uncommon in Spain, however, one of its most impressive and officially the longest in the country is tucked away near the border with Portugal. Have you ever wondered about Spain’s longest wall? The answer lies not in famous sites like the walls of Lugo or Avila, but in the less well-known location of Badajoz, Extremadura. This city, steeped in a history of border clashes with Portugal, hosts the continent’s most extensive fortification. Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, Badajoz’s wall system epitomises an era marked by military innovation. Influenced by the designs of French military engineer Sebastien Le Prestre, Marquis of Vauban, these fortifications are a continuation of earlier defensive structures. The initial walls, dating back to the ninth and 11th centuries, were erected by prominent Muslim leaders, including Ibn Marwan, Abd Allah Ibn Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Rahman, and Abdullah Ibn el-Aftas. The 17th century brought renewed focus on Badajoz’s defences, following Portugal’s independence in 1640. The city’s strategic position demanded an enhanced defensive system, leading to the construction of the ‘Baluarted Wall’. Visitors to Badajoz can explore numerous bastions and gates along the wall.

Credit: Michael Newman/Creative Commons Attribution 3.0

The city wall of Alcazaba, Badajoz.

Among them, the 16th-century Puerta de Merida and the 1680 Trinity Gate showcase classicist designs and royal emblems. Notable too are the 16th-century Puerta del Pilar and the 1460 Puerta de las Palmas, each displaying distinctive architectural elements. The wall’s bastions, such as San Pedro, Santa Maria, and San Vicente, highlight strategic points around the city. The wall’s length and complexity, spanning approximately five kilometres, make it a remarkable and historically significant structure, second only to the wall of Pamplona in terms of perimeter.

Property of the week • Ref. VH2282 • €149,950

Casa Morada near Huercal-Overa

NEW & EXCLUSIVE TO VOSS HOMES - Recently modernised, deceptively spacious, two storey, four bed, 2.5 bath End Terrace, Village House of approx 140m2 plus attached double garage of 40m2 with good sized garden of approx 144m2 plus sun terrace. Walking distance to two bar / restaurants in the welcoming village of Santopetar between Huercal-Overa town and Taberno village. Casa Morada is ideal for someone looking for a large house and good sized garden.The garden is laid to gravel and tiled for low maintenance with a handful of Mediterranean plants. There is room for an in-ground pool if required. The house to the front has a covered porch with the front door leading into a reception room / second living room. A

Recently modernised house.

Spacious living / dining room.

Recently fitted modern kitchen.

door takes you into the rest of the downstairs of the house including spacious living / dining room with efficient pellet burning fire and ceiling fans. There is also a downstairs double bedroom and separate toilet with wash hand basin. From the dining area doors

lead into the spacious recently fitted modern kitchen with plenty of worktop and cupboard space. Next to this is a storage / utility room. Also in the kitchen is a rear door taking you out to the walled garden. Here there is also a door into the double garage which has water and

electricity connected. A further bonus in the garage is the previous kitchen units, sink and fridge have been refitted into the garage. Also from the dining area an impressive wide stairway leads up to the landing. Here there are three large double bedrooms.

A large double bedroom.

One has its own recently fitted shower room. There are two more double bedrooms and a recently refurbished family shower room. One of the bedrooms has a Juliet balcony looking out to the front of the property and countryside. Two of the bedrooms have ceiling fans.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE A VIEWING OF VH2282 PLEASE CONTACT VOSS HOMES ON 0034 950 616 827 OR EMAIL US AT ENQUIRIES@VOSSHOMESSPAIN.COM TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT.

38 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II NEWS

HOW can someone become a man and a mother at the same time? This is the case of a young person from Rome who, with his transition to become a man almost complete, discovered he was in his fifth month of pregnancy. ‘Marco’, as he was called

in the story from an Italian newspaper, did not recognise himself in his body. He felt like a man and not a woman. He thus started the long and difficult process of gender reassignment. First the psychological process to ascertain gender incongruity and then hor-

mone therapies. His physique began to change. His face became covered with a beard and male features slowly became predominant. Marco then began to eliminate what remained of his former body and underwent a mastectomy. The process had reached such an advanced stage that the Italian court authorised a change of sex attribution and the change of name on all documents. One last step was missing: the hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus. When the operation was performed, however, it was immediately clear that Marco was five months pregnant. Doctors found themselves in an extremely complex situation in one of Rome’s major health facilities. It emerged that following a relationship, ‘Marco’ had conceived a child. Now, high-level discussions are under way among the doctors who are following Marco’s case and who have never before been confronted with this situation.

Sustainable tourism HOW will climate change affect a top tourist destination like Spain? In 2023, Spain emerged as the world’s premier tourist destination, overtaking France for the first time. Last year, the country welcomed approximately 84 million visitors, with tourist spending surpassing pre-pandemic levels. However, a recent report on the tourism sector from David Cesar Heymann indicated that climate change is taking its effect on tourist spending. The CaixaBank report highlights that climate change is already impacting Spain’s tourism sector. “The main risk in the medium and long term for tourism in Spain is climate change,” Heymann warns. He explains that a rise of four degrees in summer temperatures could result in a decline in tourism by

Credit: Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock.com

FEELING THE HEAT: Promoting shaded spots is key.

up to 15 per cent. One of the factors behind Spain’s success as a tourist destination is it’s price competitiveness. In 2024 security is also expected to play a significant role. “Spain has a very high perception of security among international tourists and when there is tension or instability in the Middle East, historically the Spanish tourism sector has benefited,” says Heymann. British and North Ame-

rican tourists are particularly sensitive to these security situations claims the expert. So, how should the tourism sector respond to these changes? Investment in night-time leisure and dining options becomes crucial, especially during heatwaves. In coastal areas, promoting water activities and shaded spots is key, while urban destinations should focus on air-conditioned or well-ventilated activities.

No bull run

COULD Spain’s renowned San Fermin festival in Pamplona ever be the same without its trademark bull run? This controversial suggestion has sparked a heated debate across Spain. In an unusual turnaround, Rakel Arjol, the newly appointed president of the Pamplona Federation of Clubs, voiced her opinions to a Spanish news source. “I would like San Fermin to be without bulls, that’s my personal opinion,” she declared. Arjol further expressed her indifference towards the bull runs and bullfights, a sentiment that runs counter to the centuries-old tradition. The festival, known for its adrenaline-charged bull runs through Pamplona’s cobbled streets, culminates in bullfights at the Plaza de Toros. The ritual, which involves six fighting bulls and thousands of participants in traditional white outfits with red sashes and neckerchiefs, stretches over 800 metres, ending with the bulls’ death at the hands of matadors. Alexander Fiske-Harrison, a British amateur matador and bullfighting aficionado, ridiculed the idea in The Times. “What do they want to run - the world’s largest frat house party? But without the bulls the young Australians and Americans would not attend anyway,” he argued.

Credit: Photos Time/shutterstock.com

Italian man is 5 months pregnant

The San Fermin festival, Pamplona.

Aside from tradition, the ethical treatment of bulls and human safety are central to the debate. Humane Society International highlights the killing of approximately 180,000 bulls yearly in fights, underscoring the cruelty and prolonged suffering in bullfighting arenas. Moreover, the danger to humans is very real. In Valencia, a 61-year-old father, Jose Antonio Subies, tragically died after a bull gored him, causing severe injuries to his liver and lung. Last year’s Pamplona festival saw at least five individuals hospitalised due to injuries sustained during the run.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

42 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

• News Across The Regions • Costa del Sol Chefs for Children

Costa Blanca North Good Luck, Lee

Axarquia Nordic events

Costa Blanca South Pink Harmony

Mallorca Giants and Big Heads

Costa Calida Join Mabs

RENOWNED chefs are raising funds for Autism Spain with the most charitable recipe of the Michelin stars. More than 50 Michelin-starred Spanish chefs will take part on April 22 at the Anantara Villa Padierna hotel in an initiative to raise funds for the social group Autism Spain and to disseminate culinary recipes for children so that they eat healthily. The charity day, supported by the Provincial Council through Sabor a Malaga will begin with healthy cooking workshops with the chefs and 150 children from the Benahavis and Autismo España schools, and will culminate with a gala dinner featuring an exclusive tasting menu prepared by the Michelin-starred chefs who work in Malaga Province.

LOS NÓRDICOS Almuñecar is gearing up for yet another exciting excursion on the third Saturday in February to Nigüelas, nestled under the majestic Sierra Nevada rocks. This outing promises a picturesque journey along Acequias, where members can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of almond blossoms. Los Nórdicos Almuñecar fosters a sense of community among its members. From cultural outings to adventurous trips, the group offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests. To stay updated on their upcoming events and enjoy the perks of membership, be sure to visit their Facebook page. Embrace the camaraderie and shared experiences that make being part of Los Nórdicos Almuñecar a truly special experience.

ON Saturday January 27, there was a gathering of Giants in Palma with examples arriving from some 14 different municipalities and suburbs of the city. Each group brought with them their own pipers (xeremiers) and the parade started at 10am with each collection of Giants setting off towards the Plaza de Cort. There have been records of Giants in Palma since 1734 but those made to look human first appeared 1904 when Palma Council commissioned ceramicist La Roqueta de Palma to create Tofol and Bet-Maria who made regular appearances in festivals until 1936, when they became unlikely casualties of the Civil War. There is no doubt that the Giants are well respected in Mallorca.

LEE HARKER has taken on a new and more ambitious challenge to support the AKIRA Dog Sanctuary in Benissa. Having successfully raised €10,000 by completing a 240km walk from Moraira to Valencia and back, Lee has now set his sights on a 500km trek from Barcelona to Moraira. The journey kicked off on January 29 and is scheduled to wrap up on February 10, spanning a total of 12 days. Lee’s fundraising target for this endeavour is €20,000, with all donations going directly toward supporting AKIRA and the well-being of the dogs under their care. Expressing gratitude for every contribution, Lee underscores that no donation is too small. To make a donation, visit the website: www.akira-animals.

JOIN the celebration at La Zenia Boulevard on February 3 from 12.00 - 16.00 for a fun-filled day of music, art, and solidarity in support of those battling cancer. Starting with a live broadcast by Radio Sunshine, the event will feature performances by several musicians and singers, with timeless classics to contemporary hits. At 3.00pm, a minute of silence will be observed to honour all those who have faced the battle against cancer. Every donation or purchase contributes to raising vital funds in support of the fight against cancer. Don’t miss this special day where music, dance, and solidarity come together to create ‘Pink Harmony’, leaving a positive impact.

MABS Mazarron, is a non-profit organisation which stands as a beacon of hope for individuals dealing with the challenges of cancer. MABS Mazarron is on a mission to extend its services, and it urgently needs compassionate individuals to join its volunteer force. Even if people can only spare a few hours a week, that contribution can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those diagnosed with cancer in your community. MABS Mazarron is actively seeking volunteers for diverse roles, including drivers, carers, van crews, fundraisers, and shop workers. If you’re ready to lend a helping hand and be part of a cause that truly matters, reach out to them at mazvolunteers@mabscancerfoundation.

euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 February 2024

PETS Pet-sitters cherish your pets at home SPONSORED BY

KEEPING your pets at home when you travel can give you real peace of mind. This is accentuated when you know the sitters are checked and come from HouseSitMatch. What is more, they wont charge you a cent! The pet-sitters come for free! If you’re planning a trip in 2024 join now to find sitters. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised. All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network. The sitters come for free! Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take: 1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com 2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed 3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house 4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and

Most pets just fare better when they stay in their home when you travel.

you choose. How does it work? HouseSitMatch can help you ﬁnd suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House-sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter. Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5 Excellent

Pure Joy - I have completed two house-sits so far so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog. Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more! Lisa Stimpson, Pet-sitter from the UK How do you join? Please register online via our website www.Housesitmatch.com.

Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting is a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20% discount using coupon code 20EWN- Reader exclusive offer. To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.HouseSitMatch.com.

Humane deterrents IN the quest for a harmonious coexistence between our beloved gardens and the local feline population, finding humane ways to deter cats is essential. A key approach is understanding that cats are sensitive to certain smells and textures, which we can use to our advantage. One effective method is using certain plants that emit scents unappealing to cats, like lavender, rosemary, and lemon thyme. Planting these around the garden not only deters cats but also enhances the garden’s aesthetics and aroma. Another option is to use citrus peels; cats dislike the smell of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. Scattering these peels around flower beds can keep cats at bay. For those seeking a more high-tech solution,

ultrasonic devices offer a modern approach. These devices emit a high-frequency sound, inaudible to most humans, that cats find unpleasant. Strategically placing these devices can protect specific areas without causing harm to the cats. Water deterrents, such as motion-activated sprinklers, can also be effective. These sprinklers activate when they detect movement, gently spraying water to startle and discourage cats from entering the area. Importantly, while employing these deterrents, it’s crucial to ensure they are safe and non-harmful to cats. Humane deterrence is about gently encouraging cats to choose other areas for their adventures, maintaining a respectful and kind relationship with our feline neighbours.

Paw licking WHEN a dog persistently licks its paws, it’s a signal that warrants attention. This behaviour can be attributed to various causes, ranging from physical discomfort to psychological factors. One common reason is allergies. Dogs can develop sensitivities to certain foods, pollen, or household chemicals, leading to itchy skin and paws. In response, they lick their paws to soothe the irritation. Similarly, environmental irritants like road salt or lawn chemicals can also cause discomfort, prompting excessive licking. Another possibility is the presence of parasites, such as ﬂeas or ticks. These pests can cause intense itching and discomfort, leading to persistent licking. Additionally, injuries or foreign objects like thorns or burrs lodged in the paw pads can cause pain, leading to licking as a natural response to soothe the area. Psychological factors, such as anxiety or boredom, can also lead to compulsive behaviours like paw licking.

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on the left. To know more contact 617 914 156 (10021) ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Why not make this year the year you volunteer? Call and see how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail. com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, www.britishlegion.org. uk/counties/spain-north ZURGENA Branch meeting on the first Thursday, Coffee Morning on the third Thursday and Buffet & Quiz Night on the last Tuesday of the month all at La Parrilla Hotel Albox, for further details please email zurge narblchairman@gmail. com - (253989)

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WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726) OTHERS EDS? We have the solution, Kamagra pills & jells, Cialis, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394 PETS

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CHURCHES

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end

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DRAINAGE Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at www.almeria-anglican. com. Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

1 - 7 February 2024 If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

CLASSIFIEDS II euroweeklynews.com REMOVALS

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1 - 7 February 2024 INSURANCE

EWN 45

euroweeklynews.com II MOTORING

Used car market

HAVE you ever weighed the cost difference between used electric cars and their petrol or diesel counterparts? Recent insights reveal a striking disparity in the second-hand car market. In December, an annual analysis conducted by a Spanish vehicle sellers association disclosed a significant price gap in the pre-owned car sector. This study which focused on vehicles with a single previous owner or those used in leasing with less than 15,000 kilometres, found that used electric cars were priced at an average of €34,818. In stark contrast, the average costs for petrol and diesel vehicles stood at €19,999 and €17,743 respectively. Statistics show that electric vehicles, despite a €2,000 decrease in value over the year, were almost twice as expensive as their combustion engine equivalents. This disparity underlines the major hurdle in adopting electric vehicle technology. According to Faconauto, electric cars

Credit: carballo/Shutterstock.com

46 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

Second-hand car market.

comprised a mere 0.6 per cent of Spain’s vehicle transactions last year. The Moves III Plan, initiated in June, aimed to bridge this gap by offering up to €7,000 in subsidies for ‘pre-owned’ electric cars, provided they are less than 12 months old and owned by manufacturers or rental companies. Prices for pre-owned electric vehicles vary across Spain. Murcia recorded average prices around €44,000, while La Rioja saw averages drop to €24,000. Madrid, Catalonia, and Andalucia, with the most

transactions, posted figures close to the national average, at €31,800, €34,519, and €37,000 respectively. The Renault Zoe led the used electric car market in Spain, despite a 35 per cent drop in sales to 1,099 units. Following closely were the Smart ForTwo, 1,028 sales; and the BMW i3, with 730 cars sold. The Fiat 500 and Tesla Model 3 rounded out the top five, with 658 and 611 sales respectively. Notably, the Megane E-Tech saw a significant increase, from 30 units to nearly 400 by the close of 2023.

48 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

TEENAGE dart sensation Luke Littler who hit the headlines recently has been issued with a word of warning from former darts professional Peter Manley. The former world darts number one, Manley, expressed concern about 17-year-old Littler, who has captured the nation’s admiration with stellar performances at the World Darts Championship, Bahrain Masters, and Dutch Masters. Reportedly, Manly commented: ‘Luke Littler, to me, just looks a big unit. If he isn’t careful and doesn’t look after himself, he won’t last long because of that.’ The advice came after Littler’s frequent mentions of his fondness for kebabs, particularly at Alexandra Palace in early January. “Luke Humphries reminds me so, so much of Luke Littler,” Manley, the chairman of the Professional Darts Players Association, stated to a local news source. He drew parallels between Littler and Luke Humphries, another young player who successfully lost four-and-ahalf stone during the coronavirus pandemic. Humphries’ weight loss positively impacted his career, leading him to a World Championship victory. He credits Humphries’ transformation for improving his physical and mental health, overcoming challenges such as anxiety and pressure. He emphasises the endurance needed in the sport, where players often compete from morning to evening, requiring sustained concentration and physical stamina. Manley himself had a wake-up call in his 40s when diagnosed with heart failure, prompting him to alter his lifestyle significantly. Humphries, on his part, has spoken about the difficulty of eating healthily on the darts circuit.

Replacements wanted! John Smith TWO of the biggest football cubs in the world, Barcelona and Liverpool will be looking for new managers at the end of this season. We know that Jurgen Klopp is off to take a sabbatical but at the moment is still under contract to Liverpool until the 2026, so it’s unlikely that his announcement was a subterfuge to head towards Barcelona. As far as Barcelona are concerned, the appointment of Xavi Hernández in 2021 hasn’t turned out to be a success after his first great season as they are currently only in fourth place in La Liga, way off the top spot and are suffering financial fair play difficulties. He opted to go rather than wait to be pushed, but this then leaves something of a poisoned chali-

Credit: FC Barcelona

Littler warning

euroweeklynews.com II SPORT

OPTED TO GO: Xavi announced he was bowing out.

ce for whoever is recruited to take over. There were rumours that former Barcelona

player and now Arsenal manager, Mike Arteta was a favourite but he quickly made it clear that he isn’t

currently interested in the job so that also leaves Barcelona in a bit of a dilemma. There are a few ‘big names’ such as Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho who have recently been sacked, but if they weren’t good enough for Chelsea and Roma (plus plenty of other major clubs) are they right for Barcelona? Back in the UK Roberto de Zerbi has been achieving great things with Brighton and Hove Albion, but look what happened to former Brighton manager Graham Potter who couldn’t make the grade when stepping up to Chelsea. Maybe the logical way to go is to trawl former Barcelona players who are now managers or look at some of the more successful La Liga managers who understand Spanish football.

Grand Prix returns

MADRID is set to host the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix starting in 2026, marking the sport’s return to the city after over four decades. The agreement was finalised last week at IFEMA Madrid. This decision brings the prestigious motorsport back to Madrid, with a commitment spanning from 2026 to 2035. The proposed circuit, which is still pending final approval from the FIA, promises to be a unique addition to the F1 calendar. Stretching over 5,474 km with 20 turns, it is designed to deliver a qualifying lap time of approximately one minute and 32 seconds. The track will incorporate both existing and future roads of the Ifema Madrid site, as well as including a 1.5 km stretch of public roads. The venue will be very close to the Adolfo Suarez

Credit: Tim Henman Charitable Foundation

Tim Henman partnered Hugh Grant in a charity doubles match.

New tennis channel

Credit: cristiano barni/Shutterstock.com

PRESTIGIOUS MOTORSPORT: Hungarian Grand Prix.

Madrid-Barajas airport and only 16 kilometres from the city centre. the Madrid circuit will have facilities never before seen in F1, including a covered and heated paddock, together with transport connections that will be accessible for fans by car, bus, train and metro The event, entirely fun-

ded by private companies, is expected to inject around €500 million into Madrid’s economy every year. This substantial economic impact underlines the significance of hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix in the Spanish capital. Madrid’s entry into the Formula 1 calendar is not just a return of high-octane

motorsport to the city, but also a promising economic opportunity, showcasing innovative circuit designs and strong private sector support. As the engines start to rev in anticipation, the world watches to see how Madrid will transform into a new hub for Formula 1 excitement.

BRITISH tennis lovers will no longer have to wait for Wimbledon to get their fix of strawberries and Champagne provided they have a Sky Sports subscription. The broadcaster has just announced that it will shortly launch the UK’s first TV channel dedicated solely to tennis and from February 11, Sky Sports Tennis and Now will deliver over 4,000 matches from more than 80 tournaments a year on the ATP and WTA tours as well as exclusive coverage of the US Open. Two well-respected former players, Tim Henman and Laura Robson will form part of the new team and names of other commentators, no doubt many from the tennis world, will be revealed shortly. The first week of programming will feature live coverage from the Hologic WTA Tour tournament in Doha, where viewers can watch their favourite players such as Coco Gauff, Ons Jabeur, Aryna Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka and Iga Swiatek. The action continues with the ATP Tour from Rotterdam, followed by an all-star line-up of Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev on court in Doha from February 19.