Costa Blanca North 21– 27 March 2024 Issue 2020

Costa Blanca

Your power to change

Anna Akopyan

JONNY ELRAIZ, the co-founder of Benidorm’s Project4All, reached the €3,509 fundraising target within ve days, aiding his contribution to homeless people.

Jonny Elraiz is a rock musician and a friend to all who need support: he has been taking care of approximately 35-40 homeless people around Costa Blanca, delivering meals and hope to those in need.

“Every living person has a power. And I don’t think that people realise the power that they have to change the things around them,” said Jonny in a video lmed by the popular English YouTuber, Mr Wendall, who joined him for a food run.

Jonny shared that he was struggling to meet the costs of renewing his van: essential to his delivery work. Together, Mr Wendall and Jonny started raising funds and reached their target within ve days.

Jonny has expressed his gratitude to all who contributed. He continues to educate people on the ways to help the homeless, emphasising the human approach of “acknowledging” people, no matter their living circumstances and social divides.

FREI

GRATIS

GRATIS GRATIS

GRATIS

GRATUITO VRIJ

LIVRE

ILMAINEN

Jonny Elraiz cooking with Sherilee Ann Lynn.

Credit: Jonny Elraiz, Facebook

Finland to La Nucia

Anna Akopyan

THIS month, three teachers from Finland visited La Nucia’s Institute and Ciutat Esportiva under the ERASMUS + Programme, strengthening the countries’ relationship.

Coming from the Salon Lukio School in Salo, a town located one hour from Helsinki, the three Finnish teachers explored La Nucia’s educational developments.

The municipality’s councillor, Gemma Marquez, introduced the visitors to La Nucia’s sports and arts facilities, including the Ciutat Esportiva complexes and the town’s Auditorium, which facilitate students in their studies.

During their week in La Nucia, the visiting teachers will familiarise themselves with La Nucia’s educational system, and especially, the communication and collaboration between the Insti-

tute and the town council.

The ERASMUS + Programme is an EU project to encourage activities abroad for education professionals and students, promoting diversity and development.

Back in December, teachers from La Nucia visited Finland and began building their relationship with the Finnish schools.

Now, April awaits a group of students travelling from La Nucia to Finland to explore the

culture, work ethic, and educational system of the country.

Altea receives the Blue Flag

THE Bay of Altea has been awarded the Blue Flag: a distinction recognised by ADEAC (Environmental and Consumer Education Association), claiming it a clean and safe space.

ADEAC is a non-profit association that annually awards the most environmentally-adapted and valued locations across Spain.

This month, an award ceremony in Madrid, celebrated Altea’s achievements in nature preservation: it is the second consecutive year that the municipality has

CANCER CARE JAVEA received an unexpected and generous donation; the team is touched by the compassion of their supporters.

This heart-warming story began when Tarick Hodeib from Gold Rush; a luxury jewellery and watches company, decided to sell the gorgeous Omega ladies’ watch for €250, with all proceeds to be donated to Cancer Care Charity.

The word got around the town, and a gentleman, Roland Alexander, offered to buy the watch. But instead

been granted this title.

The Bay of Altea covers a path from the Plaza de Europa, spreading over through the Mascarat, to the Algar River, the Cala del Soio beach and the Serra Gelada

Heart of gold

Natural Park.

The Municipal Head of Environment and Urban Planning, Jose Orozco, has noted the path “represents an action for the promotion of our natural heritage, contributing to deseasonalising tourism,” for its accessible and protected natural and cultural history.

He also spoke out on the Blue Flag award: “This is an important recognition that only 100 trails in Spain have and is another example of the importance of valuing our trails.”

of €250, he proposed to pay €1,000.

Cancer Care’s team was delighted and thankful for such a generous donation but Roland didn’t stop there.

He proceeded to donate the watch itself, with a brand new battery, in full working order and glam, waiting to find a lucky owner.

The donations will now be used to assist the nursing staff at Cancer Care Javea and aid the lives of those battling cancer across Costa Blanca and beyond.

Omega ladies’ watch.

Imma Morell and Gemma Marquez with teachers from Finland.

Credit: Cancer Care Javea, Facebook

Credit: La Nucia Council

Altea Council with the Blue Flag.

Credit: Altea Council, X

New beach

THE regeneration of the 80-metre beach in Puerto Blanco, Calpe is moving forward. The development by Port Boutique received a €5 million investment to implement urbanisation and port works.

Best town

BENISSA becomes a candidate for the best town of 2024 due to the municipality’s involvement in Urbact (a programme encouraging sustainability), its ecological parks, and the Benissa Natur Sport brand, which promotes fitness and nature to its residents.

Dietary guide

THE HLA San Carlos Hospital in Denia introduces Nutrition and Dietetics services, directed by the health specialist, Marina Domene. The services will offer 100 per cent personalised dietary guidelines, relying on sports nutrition to reach optimal health.

Red prawns

DENIA’S 12th edition of the Red Prawn Contest has announced its finalists: Victor Suarez (Haydee), Cesar Mogollon (Ambivium), Ariel Mungia (Raza), Federico Guajardo (El Carreter), Martin Comamala (539 Plats Forts), Ignacio Carballo (Kitchen Club), Eugenio Gonzales (Kanaloa) and Cristina Gomez (Fierro restaurant).

Alcoy singer

THE Camilo Sesto Museum announced its opening in 2025. The museum is made in memory of Alcoy’s famous singer, Camilo Sesto, who was awarded the Gold Medal by the town council. The museum will display over 2,000 souvenirs related to the performer.

Martha’s Vineyard - the wine escapade

Anna Akopyan

DIVE into the world of Ribera del Duero wine with Martha’s Vineyard’s next event on March 27, creating memories in Moraira.

From 6pm until 8pm, visitors are invited to join in a wine escapade of the nest wines of Ribera del Duero.

Famous for its breathtaking Tempranillo wines, the Ribera del Duero region is located south of the Burgos Province, in the judicial district of Aranda.

Enjoy an evening of exclusive wine tasting, brou-

ght from the signature Spanish vineyards directly to you, including Cillar Rosado, Hacienda Solano,

Delivering wellness

PREP2U is a delivery service based in Alfas del Pi, committed to providing balanced, customised meals across Spain.

Making healthy habits e ortless, Prep2u bene ts its customers by saving time and adjusting to the personal dietary needs of every client.

Whether you go for vegan, gluten-free or protein-rich meals, Prep2u o ers a wide variety of menus, including dishes like black bean bourguignon, BBQ paprika chicken with sweet potato, protein waes, and vegan lasagna.

With a strong focus on healthy cuisine, Prep2u has a rich choice of salads, for which you can choose the protein and the dressing, and a unique range of smoothies for the upcoming summer.

The service centres on building a relationship with their customers and guiding them through their health journey by providing regular meals under subscriptions with discounts and customised meal sizes.

All deliveries are temperature-controlled and come in eco-friendly packaging.

To get your rst taste of wellness, see the meal deals on prep2u.goprep.com or visit Prep2u on Facebook.

and Ricardo Dumas Blanco wines.

The owner of the Vineyard, Martha, has an

in-depth understanding of wine and culture, after living in the Southern California wine region and collaborating with wine-makers.

Martha is a retired diplomat for the Colombian government and has a passion for hosting cultural events. She is now living in Moraira and continues to unite wine enthusiasts of Costa Blanca for events in which tradition, history, and wine are celebrated.

Admission is €35. Visit marthasvineyard.es for booking.

A fun night for Cancer Care

EVERY Wednesday at Kawana Javea, a community of compassionate people gets together for a fun Quiz Night, raising funds for Cancer Care Javea.

Join in at 7pm to support a great cause and make new friends during your night out. Admission is €10, including a meal choice and a donation to Cancer Care Javea.

Kawana specialises in delicious, home-made food, including dishes like the giant Yorkshire pudding and luxury sh pie o ered during the Quiz Night in their cosy dining area.

Cancer Care Javea is a hard-working charity organisation, aiding those battling cancer by collaborating with health professionals and hosting community events around Costa Blanca. Exercise your mind and connect with the local community, with a chance to win spot prizes, including a meal voucher at Kawana.

All donations will proceed to Lynwen Nursing Team, who work tirelessly to support cancer patients.

Join in for a table of six.

Reserve by calling 626 728 377.

Adopt a Dog Day at Easter

SUPPORT the local animal charity, Akira, by celebrating Easter with your pets or meeting your future best buddy - dogs and humans invited.

Come along on March 31 at the Moraira Dog Park to meet the loveable dogs looking for adoption or to give your own pet a festive treat. Enjoy live music by the established local

musician, Ian Bennett, starting at 11am, as you get to know the charities and wander around the vibrant stalls of refreshments.

There are treats for all members of the family, with ice cream vans, Easter egg hunts and face-painting sessions

At 12pm, you may spot your future buddy in the parade of dogs

looking for rehoming.

At 1pm, feel free to join Pam’s People dance demo, with your pet too, and enjoy classic rock anthems by the Black Velvet band at 1.30pm.

Let your dog be the star of the Dog Show: all participants are welcome.

The event is organised by Vives Pons Lawyers and Accountants.

TO ensure your safety and prevent you from paying nes, read our guide to avoiding trouble on Benidorm’s beaches.

Do not sleep, camp, or swim between midnight and 7am, as you will bened and will risk your safety. The same applies to swimming when the red ag is up.

Not as dangerous, but just as costly, nudity on regular beaches can cost you €650 and a lot of attention. So is having sex on the beach and drinking alcohol, for which the ne is €750.

Smoking on Benidorm beaches is now completely prohibited and will cost you €2,000 as a ne.

Using soap in the beach showers is banned, as is reserving a place with a towel, building large sand sculptures and playing ball games outside of designated areas.

Fishing on the rod has a ne of €750.

CREATING MEMORIES: Wine tasting outdoors.

Credit: Magda Ehlers, Pexels

CALPE Town Council is announcing new regulations for taxi drivers, upgrading the system for the first time since 1996.

The councillor for Citizen Security, Guillermo Sendra, stated that the consensus drafted in 1996 has now become “obsolete.”

One of the new regulations is appropriate clothing. “It has been a demand of the drivers themselves,” said Sendra, highlighting that “appropriate clothing must be maintained to give a good image of such an important sector for Calpe.”

The drivers are now prohibited from wearing shorts or ripped pants to

Benidorm’s aid to Peru

elevate the town’s image.

Moreover, all vehicles will include the corporate image of Calpe on the cars, with the name of the town and the image of the distinctive Peñon de Ifach.

To ensure efficient driving, all standard cars will be no older than 12 years, and electric or hybrid cars

Credit: Taxi Club, Facebook

no older than 14.

The municipality currently holds 25 taxi licences: the maximum established by the authorities, considering the number of inhabitants.

The town council is eager to expand the number of licences but has made a statement that it is out of their control.

Anna Akopyan COLLABORATING with the priest Father Jaume Benaloy, Benidorm is providing support to the San Jose de Casma Asylum in Peru.

The Asylum assists 200 homeless seniors, many of whom are facing serious health conditions.

The centre has reached out for help in renovating its facilities to improve the lives of the residents.

Father Jaume Benaloy, is a Benidorm native, who currently works as a missionary in the Peruvian region of Chimbote. He is now collaborating with the Rotary Club of Benidorm to finance the renovation of the Peru centre.

The Rotary of Benidorm has now contributed €12, 750 to facilitate developments in Peru’s senior residence.

The Club’s President, Juan Angel Ferrer, spoke on the occasion: “It is a day of happiness because we see the completion of the first major international cooperation project.”

The rehabilitation of the roof, improvement of electricity and the installation of an industrial laundry are now being added to the facility.

Father Jaume Benaloy commented about the future: “The Chimbote Club wants to continue with this line of joint work that has borne such good results.”

Choir’s goodwill Designed for life

THE English Choir of Teulada donated €800 each to Make a Smile and the Alzheimer’s Day charities, using their voices to make a difference.

All funds raised through the Choir’s ticket sales and bucket collections have been donated to the local charities.

Tony Grande from Make A Smie and Sylvia Tatnell from the Alzheimer’s Day Centre Teulada came to receive the donations and explained what the money would be used for, raising awareness and aiding the neighbours in need.

951 38 61 61

The English Choir expressed their gratitude: “We found the whole experience very uplifting and inspiring and we hope you will continue to help us support local charities.”

NOT only has the La Nucia municipality been developing a new sports complex, but it is now expanding its home market.

Driving around the town, one can’t help but notice the large amount of building processes taking place.

This month, the property developer, Alibuilding, has acquired two plots in la Nucia, aiming to use them for the construction of approximately 130 homes.

‘Designed for life’, is Alibuilding’s strategy, and it will now be implemented on the 14,000 metres of land in La Nucia.

The members also gave a special mention to Positive Signs and Designs, who assisted them in the joyful presentation of the cheques.

The English Choir is a mixed group of singers who rehearse in Teulada-Moraira every Thursday from 14.45 until 16.45.

To find out more visit The English Choir, Teulada on Facebook.

The company’s director, Jose Antonio Izquierdo, highlighted the importance of the location: “Surely this urban area is destined to be one of the most attractive on the Costa Blanca.”

He also has expressed his interest in future projects: “We understand that the environment generated in La Nucia and the quality seal that Alibuilding offers will have a great response in the market, both national and international.”

NEW RULES: Upgrading the system for drivers.

Father Jaume Benaloy and the Rotary Club.

Credit: Benidorm Council, Facebook

FROM March 23, Benidorm’s nature park premiers its new season of enchanting animal adventures for children and adults.

Mundomar is Costa Blanca’s centre of marine animals and exotic birds, with over 80 species in its park, waiting to meet you.

African Jabiru, Geoffroy’s Marmoset, six-banded armadillo, and blue-crowned Aratingas: meet beautiful creatures from all over the

Meeting dolphins

globe as you walk through the park’s ecological gardens.

Intrigued by the world of the underseas? Learn about the lives of marine animals by visiting the park’s aquariums.

Meet dolphins up close and watch their spectacular performances with the Spanish Olympic team.

You can also get firsthand experience by swimming with the loveable sea lions, accompanied by trainers.

Mundomar is not only a place for marine lovers: there are also fantastic shows with parrots.

Mundomar is currently participating in nine breeding programmes and con-

Ghostly encounters

COME and be spooked by Noël Coward’s brilliant play, Blithe Spirit, from April 22 to 27 in the Unión Musical in Gata. There will be a sparkling Opening Night Celebration with canapés and cava, and a matinée on Saturday April 27.

Written in 1941, Coward admitted that “I knew it was witty, well constructed and that it would be a success.” It is a play which hasn’t aged: even if spiritualism is no longer taken so seriously, horoscopes are still popular.

Before The Mousetrap took over in 1957, Blithe Spirit held the record for the longest run for a non-musical play in the West End, with 1,997 performances, proving just how funny it is.

The Box Office is now open – don’t delay in booking your seats for a

fun evening! For more information: www.javea players.com.

tinues the work to include more species; there are animals in the park you would not see anywhere else in the country.

The park is dedicated to preserving the environ-

ment and its species and ensures the best living conditions for its animals.

Given that many of Mundomar’s animals are in danger of extinction, the team works hard at researching, nurturing and raising awareness for the wide range of species.

Mundomar is open from

10am until 6pm and offers various admission options.

Full-day tickets are €22. Afternoon show tickets are €19, and there are special tickets available for families and VIP experiences.

The park holds many restaurants and snack bars for refreshments.

Tickets at mundomar.es.

COSTA BLANCA’S growing charity organisation, Coffee 4 All, announced another local food donor for the homeless - The Champions Pub.

Coffee 4 All has been collaborating with local diners and restaurants to increase their food bank and support the lives of the homeless from Altea to Benidorm.

Champions’ gift

The establishments participating use their customers’ charitable donations to cook nutritious meals for the homeless, to be delivered by Project 4 All across Costa Blanca.

The Champions Pub is

nestled on the beachfront of Albir, with a wide view all across to Calpe on the large and sunny outdoor terrace.

Inside, the venue invites customers to watch sports games and play pool, while enjoying a wide selection of beers and cocktails.

Fish and chips are served every day, as is a traditional

home-made breakfast. On Friday nights the Pub unites the locals and visitors with a fun Quiz Night, and there is often soulful live music coming from The Champions Pub.

Pay it forward with The Champions Pub to enjoy a tasteful day out and support the locals in need.

Anna Akopyan

AS one of the biggest festivities in Spain takes place this month, the vibrant colours and expressiveness of the ninots continue to enchant the visitors.

Many visitors of the festivity are not aware that they can have their say in choosing the ninots to be displayed.

Every year, groups of 150 to 300 people are formed, who choose a theme and make their dream ninot come to life.

These are the groups of people dressed in distinct colours during las Fallas, with personali-

sed tents that you see during the holiday. And you can become one of them.

Each group raises funds to finance the production of the ninots for their municipality and engages in the creation progress.

The more people join and the more money is raised, the grander and mesmerising the ninots will be, making your town and your contributions stand out amongst the Valencian region.

Contact the local town hall and express your interest in registration. If not this year, why not the next?

Las Fallas in Valencia.

The Champions Pub team.

Credit: Keith Ellwood, Flickr

Credit: The Champions Pub, Facebook

A FEMALE flying fox was found wounded in the Terra Natura Park but is currently recovering, thanks to the quick and efficient veterinary care.

The seven-year-old Pteropus lylei (flying fox) was found wounded and pregnant, when the veterinarians performed an x-ray

Benidorm nurtures a flying fox

for her sudden injury.

The team of experts believe that the injury was potentially caused by the animal getting hooked on one of the trees while flying.

As soon as this was esta-

blished, the Terra Natura veterinary team cleaned the affected area, applied tissue-regenerating ointments and bandaged the fox.

The IUCN (International Union for Conserva-

The Girl at War

Anna Akopyan

VELES E VENTS school in Alfas, held a talk by Helmtrud von Hagen, inspiring the future generation to fight for freedom.

Helmtrud von Hagen, aged 88, had lost her father, Albrecht, to the failed attack against Adolf Hitler on July 20, 1944.

She has been living in Alfas del Pi with her husband for 50 years but returns to Berlin annually to commemorate the fight against the Nazi regime.

This month, Helmtrud shared her experience with the students of the Alfas school.

Helmtrud was eight years old when she lost her father to tragic events. Albrecht von Hagen was one of the participants of the 1944 mission, in which civilians and military personnel attempted to overthrow the Nazi regime and negotiate an end to the Second World War.

As a result, 5,000 peo-

ple involved were arrested, and more than 100 executed.

Helmtrud presented the ‘Girl at War’ talk, inspiring the students to stay wary of nationalist regimes and continue to make efforts to reach global peace and equality.

Is it legal? - Smoking on the beach

IT is always freeing to catch the fresh air by the sea but many beach-goers have been complaining about tobacco users invading their space. When is it acceptable to smoke on the beach?

Spanish law states that every locality has the power to establish its regulations for the local beach, and Spain has been divided about this controversial subject.

tion of Nature) had noticed a 30 per cent decline in the population of flying foxes and recognised the animals as vulnerable.

The Terra Nature team showed their dedication to ensuring the safety and

well-being of the animals in their facility and is now watching the fox recover.

Due to her recently giving birth to a calf, the veterinarians have been especially careful in their aid, causing the least possible stress as the animal was breastfeeding her new-born.

The Valencian Community currently has 72 beaches, on which smoking is prohibited.

As Benidorm holds one of the highest tourism rates in the region, smoking on the beach has now been prohibited, with fines ranging from €750 and up, including electronic cigarettes.

It is also prohibited on the beaches of Villajoyosa, El Campello, Elche, and Denia’s Playa Marge Roig, while the rest of the municipalities currently have no smoking bans.

The discussion about future regulations continues.

One World peace sign.

Credit: Markus Spiske, Pexels

The flying fox was wounded.

Credit: lonleyshrimp, Flickr

Action against diabetes

SPECSAVERS OPTICAS

is raising funds to research and develop a cure for type 1 diabetes.

Spread across Spain, including Costa Blanca, Specsavers Opticas announced their target of

raising more than €5,000 throughout 2024.

The company’s director, Nerea Galdos-Little, explained the link between eye health and diabetes: “We seek to educate and inform everyone about the

relationship between diabetes and loss of vision, encouraging diabetics to carefully monitor their glucose levels and undergo regular eye exams.”

He also discussed the dangers of diabetic retinopathy: a complication of diabetes, which causes damage to the blood vessels, resulting in vision problems and even blindness.

“In Spain, more than 1,000 people are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes each year, the majority being under 15 years old. “

The president of DiabetesCero, Isabel Merida, emphasised the need to “invest in research and address a disease that often goes unnoticed by society, but has a significant impact on the families who live with it.”

Specsavers Opticas is spending this year participating in challenges and activities designed to raise awareness and encourage people to re-evaluate their health.

UNDERGOING CHANGES: Bous a la Mar in Denia.

Bulls controversy

DENIA’S

been revised after the rise in protest demonstrations.

Bous a la Mar is Denia’s infamous festival of bullfighting which takes the animals into the sea every July of the year.

Last year, an incident in which a bull died from drowning, caught the attention and criticism from international press and animal welfare associations. Many have urged the local authorities to terminate the celebration.

Now, the local government finally spoke out, announcing changes to this year’s programme.

Denia’s Festival councillor stated: “It

is not the time to remove the bulls completely,” but changes have been made.

This July, the Bous a la Mar, will no longer take place during the day from 12pm until 2pm, as the hot weather conditions can negatively affect the animals. Moreover, there will be no afternoon celebration on Sunday during the Festa Major.

Felix Redondo, the councillor of the municipal Vox group, emphasised the significance of the celebration, urging people to, “take into account the tourist impact” that this event has on the town.

Denia’s mayor, Vicent Grimalt spoke out about the changes, stating that the celebration has to “evolve.”

Anna Akopyan

infamous Bous a la Mar celebration has

Credit: Bous a la Mar en Denia, Marina Alta, Comunidad Valenciana, España.

BERLIN has solidified its position as one of Europe’s most desirable and flourishing cities, according to the ‘Europe’s Best Cities’ report for 2024 by Resonance Consultancy.

Climbing an impressive four spots from the previous year, the German capital now shares the third position with London and Paris among Europe’s top three cities.

The evaluation, which surveyed over 180 European cities, focuses on three primary aspects: ‘Livability’, ‘Lovability’, and ‘Prosperity’.

Resonance Consultancy conducts its analysis by scru-

Stratospheric dining Top three

tinising data and feedback from both residents and tourists across various platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Instagram.

Berlin stands out across all three criteria, particularly for its dynamic art and cultural landscape spread across its 12 unique neighbourhoods.

The city hosts a variety of traditional and contemporary events, including the esteemed Berlinale, the Carnival of Cultures, and the Fête de la Musique, as well as sea-

Sevilla accident

SIX people died and three were injured in Sevilla after a lorry swept into civilian and Guardia Civil vehicles, reported to be accidental.

At approximately 4.40am on March 19, an accident in the AP-4, near Los Palacios in Sevilla, left four civilians and two GAR (Guardia Civil’s Rapid Action Group) officers dead, with three Guar -

sonal exhibitions.

Furthermore, new cultural hubs like Fotografiska Berlin in the former Kunsthaus Tacheles and the THF Tower at the former Tempelhof Airport contribute to Berlin’s cultural vibrancy.

According to Europe’s Best Cities Report, the top 10 cities in Europe for 2024 are London at number one, followed by Paris, Berlin, Rome, Madrid, Prague and Barcelona. Amsterdam, Istanbul and Milan complete the top 10.

dia Civil officers injured.

The accident occurred when a lorry failed to stop on the motorway after being given signals by the Guardia Civil, and swerved, crashing into the nearest vehicles.

The driver was arrested and reported as uninjured and showing negative results for substance use. The road affected was being investigated by the police.

One of the survivors of the Los Palacios attack stated: “I don’t even know how I’m alive.”

The President of the Junta de Andalucia, Juanma Moreno, stated on X: “Our deepest condolences go out to the affected families and the Guardia Civil officers.”

RENOWNED chef Rasmus Munk, known for his work at Copenhagen’s Alchemist restaurant, has teamed up with SpaceVIP and Space Perspective.

The trio plan to create an exclusive dining experience called ‘stratospheric dining’, set to launch in 2025.

This unique adventure will take place during a six-hour flight from Florida, USA.

The event offers a special table for six guests, with tickets starting at $495,000 each.

Participants will fly to an altitude of 100,000 feet aboard Space Perspective’s Spaceship Neptune, which uses a SpaceBalloon instead of a traditional rocket.

Guests will wear custom clothing from Ogier and enjoy what’s promised to be ‘the meal of a lifetime’ while flying high above 99 per cent of Earth’s atmosphere, witnessing the sunrise against

the planet’s curve.

Because of limited space on board, some food will be prepared beforehand.

Chef Munk will oversee a small kitchen on the craft, using equipment for heating, finishing, and garnishing dishes throughout the flight.

Munk, also a co-owner of Alchemist, plans to

create dishes inspired by six decades of space exploration, aiming to capture the impact of these endeavours on society and philosophy. He wants to blend food with art and science to raise awareness about social and environmental issues, inspired by his childhood visits to Copenhagen Planetarium.

UNIQUE ADVENTURE: Will take place during a six-hour flight.

Image:

Controlling rents

DUTCH residents are questioning the e ciency of the new Housing Law.

The Minister for Housing, Hugo de Jonge, is proceeding with implementing the new Housing Law, the objective of which is to increase the number of properties covered by rent controls.

Hugo de Jonge stated that these changes would encourage residents of “normal income”, including care workers, medical sta and teachers to purchase properties.

The Law aims to reach a maximum rent amount in the rent-controlled sector of up to €1, 123, based on the number of points which the property is worth.

Currently, the country’s housing laws allow landlords with properties worth more than 1,443 points in the regulatory system, to determine the worth of their homes.

Hugo de Jonge’s development aims to make the majority of Dutch homes regula-

Strange swaps

ted under rent controls.

Many residents are litigating and expressing their concerns, to which the Minister for Housing, urged people to “act normally,” and adjust to the lack of choice in deciding the properties’ prices.

Landlords and property developers across the Netherlands have been campaigning against the Minister, arguing that the new mea-

Credit: Hugo de Jonge, X

sures will discourage people from renting out property.

The O cials have estimated that the rent of approximately 300,000 homes will reduce by an average of €190 for the future tenants.

Jonge’s Housing Law is yet to be approved by both houses of the Dutch parliament and it is currently unclear whether the plan will go through.

UK supermarket shoppers have reported some truly bizarre substitutions in their grocery orders.

According to Which? the swaps range from mushrooms instead of tampons to cream crackers in lieu of Christmas crackers.

The consumer champion surveyed more than 3,000 shoppers for its annual survey, evaluating their experiences and substitutions received from the supermarkets they frequented most.

Overall, 34 per cent of respondents reported receiving a substitution in their grocery order from one of the online stores surveyed.

Asda led with the highest proportion of shoppers receiving a substitution (56 per cent), earning just two stars for its choice of substitute items.

Notable substitutions included receiving fruit-scented shower gel instead of fruit and 10 cans of beer instead of washing powder.

Sainsbury’s followed closely, with 41 per cent of customers receiving a substitution and earning two stars for its choice of substitutes.

Unusual replacements included allergy tablets instead of an anti-allergy duvet and our instead of a loaf of bread.

Morrisons’ shoppers reported substitutions in 33 per cent of orders, with one customer receiving onions instead of cheese and onion crisps.

Aldi had a substitution rate of 31 per cent, with one shopper receiving fruit sweets instead of fruit salad.

Iceland saw substitutions in 23 per cent of orders, including one shopper receiving frozen pizza instead of tinned peaches.

Hugo de Jonge introduced new Housing Law.

THE Netherlands introduced ‘Amsterdam rules’ to reduce nuisance tourism with the use of specialised websites and campaigns.

The city of Amsterdam website launched ‘Amsterdam rules’, largely addressing visitors from England, Scotland and Ireland, holding quizzes which ask potential tourists about their plans in Amsterdam and targeting potential issues.

Stay away

The city centre chief, Sofyan Mbarki, spoke about the campaign: “We are taking a di erent approach this time. Now we are focusing on the things some tourists associate with the city, associations which we want to demolish.”

Videos in the ‘Stay Away’

Vaccine distrust

campaign display the problematic situations which many tourists create when visiting Amsterdam.

“The site is now live for British nationals and will soon be published in Italian, Spanish and French. There will also be a website focused on Dutch tourists

THE Hague’s vaccination rate in children has not been able to reach the required 90 per cent rate, with some areas of the city being as low as 59 per cent.

With a concerning rise of measles, health specialists claim that the rate has to be at least 95 per cent to avoid an outbreak of the disease.

The Hague City Council has now multiplied the vaccination stations in the city but it was not enough to ensure children’s safety.

The education chief, Hilbert Bredemeijer, told the Press: “For the rst time the doubts and mistrust towards vaccination

have become a problem across the city.”

He addressed the importance of resolving this issue, urging the government to hold a national campaign to educate the citizens on the importance of children’s vaccinations.

“We have new groups who are reluctant to vaccinate, people who are educated and interpret the science in their own way,” he said.

Bredemeijer expressed his concern, encouraging people to trust the health professionals and mentioned the potential outbreak of diseases: “It seems to me just a matter of time before it happens.”

from outside the capital,” stated Sofyan Mbarki.

The campaign received a contribution of €85,000 by the Dutch justice ministry, and €55,000 from the city to raise awareness of nuisance tourism.

The city centre chief highlighted the aim of the project: “We want a di erent image for our city.”

Ensuring children’s safety.

Credit: Ketut Subiyanto, Pexels

Truffle war looms

PIEDMONT is famous for white Alba truffles and wine, but conflict is on the horizon between their respective producers.

Climate change and increasingly high summer temperatures are forcing winemakers in Piedmont’s hilly Langhe region to seek shade for their vines.

Members of Consortium for the Protection of Barolo and Barbaresco for the emblematic red wines are looking with new interest at northern slopes, but these are the zones that yield Piedmont’s rare white truffles, which can fetch between €2,000 and €6,000 a kilo.

Until now there has been no conflict between truffles and winemakers, not least because these north-facing expanses of woodland and meadows were considered too cool for wine growing.

But as Spain’s winemakers are beginning to realise, together with their counterparts across Europe, ever-higher temperatures are obliging

growers to contemplate a change of habits.

In Piedmont this would involve extending vineyards to areas formerly dismissed as unsuitable. Practically untouched for centuries, these are jealously guarded by the hunters and their dogs who locate the prized Alba truffles which cannot be cultivated and can only be unearthed.

“Opening up north-facing slopes to grape production would pose a grave threat to truffles,” said Antonio Degiacomi, president of the Natio-

nal Centre for Truffle Studies which is based in Alba (Piedmont).

“All the biodiversity of the region is concentrated on the northern slopes and without it there will be no truffles,” he told a local newspaper.

Clearing the wooded northern slopes for vineyards would be a “lethal blow” to truffle hunters, Degiacomi continued.

“If this is allowed to go ahead, the famous white truffle of Alba will no longer exist,” he warned.

Measles in Brussels

THE measles virus has been detected in Brussels’ wastewater.

Following European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) warnings on February 16 that measles cases were increasing, Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven) researchers collected wastewater samples in Leuven as well as Brussels North and Brussels South.

“We have been researching wastewater for three years and were able to start straight away,” Elke Wollant. laboratory manager at KU Leuven’s Rega Institute, told the VRT broadcaster.

Leuven and Brussels South gave negative results but the team found the measles virus in three consecutive samples from Brussels North.

The investigators also found that the measles traces in the sewage were not the result of measles vaccination, but a natural infection

that indicated an increase in the virus in Brussels.

“Through the Public Health Institute Sciensano, we know there are six positive cases in Brussels,” Wollant explained.

“If we detect the measles virus in the sewage of a city with a million inhabitants, that means that several infections will probably have gone under the radar,” she said, before adding that vaccination was the “only protection” against the virus.

Meanwhile, the health authorities confirmed that there were 14 cases of children with measles in the Netherlands city of Eindhoven and the surrounding area, as well as one adult. All were unvaccinated, the health service said.

According to the ECDC communique, the virus has been responsible for the deaths of six people in Romania and one in Ireland in 2024.

LANGHE (PIEDMONT): Famous for wine and white truffles.

Photo credit: CC/ Phalaenopsis Aphrodite

BRUSSELS: Measles virus found in wastewater.

Photo credit: CC/Ank Kumar

Vampire buffet boom

BLOOD donation rates in Romania have seen a remarkable increase, largely credited to a significant boost in the value of meal ticket vouchers provided to donors.

Officials have noted a considerable enhancement in blood stocks at Romanian hospitals, with some witnessing a tenfold surge, thanks to the increased value of meal vouchers.

Traditionally, blood donors in Romania receive food as a token of appreciation.

In January, the worth of meal vouchers soared from approximately €14 (67 RON) to €56 (280 RON), leading to a surge in donor turnout.

Adina Beudean, the director of the Bistrita Blood Transfusion Centre, emphasised a notable uptick in donor numbers compared to the previous year.

Previously, the centre typically saw around five

donors per day, but now it welcomes 40-50 donors daily.

In Sibiu, the Blood Transfusion Centre has capped the number of donors at a maximum of 60 people per day due to the overwhelming response.

Likewise, in the central Alba region, the capacity for blood collection and storage has been stretched to its limits due to the influx of donations.

Some centres have begun to specify certain blood groups, reflecting

the surplus of donations nationwide.

Fish doorbell

Bob Marquess

ARE you looking for a unique activity in Utrecht?

The Municipality of Utrecht in the Netherlands has just the thing: pressing a digital button to assist fish on their migration journey through the city’s canals.

During spring, fish make their way from the sea upstream to find spawning grounds.

In Utrecht, they often pass through urban canals with lock gates like the Weerdsluis.

A webcam near the lock lets you see if fish are there, indicating that the gate is closed.

By clicking the digital button next to the

DMYTRO HRUNSKYI, a strongman from Dnipro, Ukraine, recently achieved three new world records, adding to his impressive list of accomplishments.

Using his beard, neck, and teeth, he demonstrated incredible feats of strength.

Dmytro faced tough challenges along the way. His first attempt to pull a vehicle with his beard in 2019 didn’t succeed as his beard hairs were pulled out.

But he didn’t give up.

webcam, you let the lock keeper know to open the gates if many fish have gathered.

This prevents a ‘fish traffic jam’ and helps them continue their journey.

This initiative, called the ‘fish doorbell’, has become a cherished local tradition.

It not only assists fish but also raises awareness about the biodiversity in Utrecht’s canals.

Visitors can learn about the fish species passing through and even observe them at night, as fish prefer to travel in darkness.

Last year, the initiative drew 8.2 million website visitors, showing its popularity and impact.

To be a part of the fishy journey, head to the website: visdeurbel.nl.

Beard and brawn

Over time, he let his beard grow longer and tried different braiding techniques to make it stronger.

In his latest triumph, Dmytro broke the previous record set by Antanas Kontrimas of Lithuania by pulling a 2.58-tonne minibus using his beard.

He then showed his strength by pulling a 7.7-tonne lorry with his neck, proving his power.

Lastly, Dmytro beat his own re-

cord for pulling cars with his teeth by towing seven taxi cabs, each with a driver inside.

This required not just strength but also careful precision to keep the cars moving straight.

Despite the heavy weights and challenges, Dmytro succeeded in each record attempt, showcasing his remarkable strength and skill as a strongman.

Can your tourist rental be prohibited?

CONSULTATION.

Dear lawyers. Last year I bought a flat in Javea, to be used as a tourist rental during the summer season. Recently, I have received a letter from the community of owners warning me of legal action for the trouble ‘supposedly’ caused by my tenants. A meeting is to be held soon to discuss this issue. Apparently, tourist rentals are not allowed in the community, or so I have been told. They also want to increase the community fees only for me. Is it true they can do that?

Response

Dear reader, thank you for your enquiry.

Tourist rentals are a very problematic issue, that we have addressed several times in the last five years. We are not familiar with your particular situation

and that of your community of owners. In order to give you personalised advice, we would need to know more details of your case. However, we are going to go over the most important issues that you (or anyone who wants to develop this type of rental) should be aware of. We hope you find them useful.

Tourist Rental Licence. Valencian Community

The first step in order to legally carry out a vacational rental is to obtain a tourist licence. Otherwise, the rental will not be legal. The fines for carrying out this activity without a licence are up to €600,000. To obtain the licence it is necessary to obtain a certificate of urban development compatibility from the town hall. To have civil liability

insurance. The property must have an occupancy licence, etc. If you do not have a tourist licence for your property, our office can help you.

Bylaws and Internal Regulations of the Community

Another essential step is to know the regulations of the community of owners in which your property is located. Art. 17.12 of the Horizontal Property Law allows communities of owners to ‘condition or limit’ tourist rentals by 3/5 of votes and 3/5 of quotas. Therefore, the first thing you should find out is whether there is any prohibition in this sense. If so, when the agreement was approved, if it is registered in the Land Registry, etc. Knowing all these questions is key.

Can it be prohibited or is it only possible to limit and/or condition?

The scope of art. 17.12 LPH is still unclear. Some courts understand that tourist rentals can be prohibited by 3/5. Others hold that the prohibition requires unanimity. Finally, there are also courts that interpret that it is only possible to limit or condition holiday rentals; but never to prohibit them. Until the Supreme Court rules on this matter, we will not resolve all these doubts.

Can the community of owners raise the community fees?

Yes, the owners’ association can agree to establish special fees or to increase the expenses for holiday rental properties. However, this increase will not have retroactive effects and is

limited to a maximum of 20 per cent.

Conclusions

At White-Baos Abogados we are experts in Horizontal Property Law and Tourist Rentals, and we have successfully overturned agreements prohibiting tourist rentals in the Courts. If your community of owners is going to hold a meeting to discuss tourist rentals, debate its prohibition, etc. Do not hesitate to contact us. If the agreement adopted by the community is not legal or violates your interests, we will help you to assert your rights.

The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys information relating to legal issues.

ABOGADOS

Anna Ellis

IN the event of Sweden’s highest in ation rate in 30 years, the prices continue to rise, a ecting the healthcare sector.

The country is continuing to change its healthcare services, emergency care and health centre attendance now growing in price. The researcher in Health Economics at Karolinska Institute, Naimi Johansson, stated her concern: “It is

The price of healthcare

problematic from an equality perspective. According to law, healthcare must be equal, as needed.”

However, 11 out of 21 regions of Sweden, have increased, or are in the process of increasing their charges for emergency care, and 10 decided to increase the

price of appointments in the health centre. The most expensive emergency care is now in Västernorrland, where a visit to the emergency room now costs 600 SEK (€53.9).

The Regional Director of Västernorrland, asserted the decisions made: “We

have seen an overconsumption of emergency care historically, we need to deal with it.”

The Director of Health and Medical Care at Jämtland Härjedalen, which is now the most costly health centre, has explained: “The increase is part of the measures we have taken based on the region’s economic situation, which is not good.”

Netflix users beware Europe’s widest

THE construction of Genoa’s sub-port tunnel kicked o with the sound of a citywide siren, marking a major milestone in connecting the city’s western and eastern sides and easing tra c congestion around

the port area. After years of discussion, this ambitious infrastructure project is nally underway and is expected to be nished by the summer of 2029.

Genoa’s mayor, Marco Bucci, expressed pride in

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starting the construction that will reshape Genoa’s landscape.

He highlighted how the tunnel will improve tra c ow in the city, making it safer and more environmentally friendly.

Italian o cials, including Transport Minister, Matteo Salvini, praised the subport tunnel as a symbol of Italian engineering excellence, showcasing innovative planning methods.

Once completed, the tunnel will stretch 3.4 kilometres long and descend 45 metres below the seabed.

It will be Italy’s longest underwater tunnel and Europe’s widest, with each tube having an external diameter of 16 metres to accommodate tra c in both directions.

Additionally, the tunnel’s construction will open up more than 25,000 square metres of urban space, allowing for the creation of parks and urban renewal projects.

NETFLIX enthusiasts have been urged to stay vigilant, as there’s a new scam currently circulating.

This fraud employs the phishing method to deceitfully gather personal and nancial information from victims.

This fraudulent activity came to light thanks to the National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE). Cybercriminals dispatch urgent emails to users, falsely alerting them of imminent account closure.

These emails are worded to induce panic and urge recipients to act swiftly, with many people acting instinctively and bypassing the verication processes.

Cyber thieves masquerade as Net ix, misleading subscribers into believing there’s an issue with their subscription renewal due to payment failures.

The emails contain a link, which, when clicked, directs victims to a counterfeit Net ix site. Here, they’re prompted to enter sensitive information under the guise of resolving the payment issue. Unfortunately, this only results in the unwary user surrendering their data to the fraudsters.

The Guardia Civil and INCIBE have outlined several measures to protect oneself and respond in the event of falling prey to this scam.

• They advise regular monitoring of account

transactions to spot and cancel any unauthorised charges.

• Victims should compile all possible evidence of the fraud, including emails and screenshots, and report the incident to the authorities.

• They also recommend practising egosur ng to check for any exposure of personal or nancial information online, followed by requesting its removal.

• For added security, always verify the authenticity of any suspicious email by consulting Netix’s o cial help page.

Credit: Netfl ix scam/Shutterstock.com

NETFLIX SCAM: Always check the source email.

Shifting priorities

Bob Marquess

A RECENT market study conducted by eDreams ODIGEO, a leading travel subscription company, has unveiled some intriguing insights into consumer travel preferences despite the current economic climate.

The research, which surveyed 10,000 global consumers, including 2,000 from the UK, found that a significant majority (84 per cent globally and 81 per cent in the UK) prioritise travel within their personal budgets.

Only a small percentage (4 per cent in the UK and 3 per cent globally) stated that they didn’t consider budgeting for travel important.

Additionally, the study forecasts changes in travellers’ priorities over the next 25 years, reflecting generational shifts and technological advancements.

Younger generations are more likely to prioritise digital connectivity and

Cost-effectiveness remains a top priority.

social inclusivity in their travel decisions compared to older age groups.

Cost-effectiveness remains a top priority for travellers across all age groups, with 64 per cent in the UK and 55 per cent globally emphasising it.

However, younger generations are less focused on cost, with other factors taking precedence.

Social inclusivity and digital connectivity are becoming increasingly important considerations for travellers, particularly

among younger demographics.

The study indicates that 27 per cent of respondents aged 18-24 prioritise socially inclusive experiences, while 20 per cent prioritise digital connectivity during travel.

Health and safety considerations have also gained significance in travel planning, likely influenced by the pandemic.

Nearly half of respondents across all age groups prioritise safety, almost on par with the cost of travel.

Image: Alena Ozerova / Shutterstock.com

Lord of the Rings

PRAGUE residents are pushing to rename streets after characters from ‘The Lord of the Rings’.

The news comes as the city plans to develop a new residential district on Rohan Island, located north of the historic centre along the Vltava River.

While the city initially proposed naming the streets after renowned philosophers like Kant and Derrida, some Czech residents are advocating for Tolkien’s fantasy characters instead.

The petition insists that the Rohan Embankment should bear names from the realm of Rohan, as depicted in Tolkien’s epic.

Although Rohan Island shares its name with a Middle Earth kingdom, it was originally named after a local poet, Josef Rohan, rather than the

fantasy novel.

Despite this, the petitioners, who have garnered over 10,000 signatures in support, are unwavering in their desire to honour the fictional heroes of Tolkien’s work.

They humorously question the role of philosophers like Immanuel Kant in battles against the likes of Saruman, the evil wizard from the novels.

Additionally, the petitioners criticise the lack

of female representation among the proposed street names and suggest honouring characters like the shieldmaiden Eowyn to address this concern.

Sharing the petition on his Facebook page, Prague councillor from the Pirate Party and the city’s former mayor Zdenek Hrib hailed the initiative as “a praiseworthy step.”

The councillor said: “I see it (the petition) as a very meritorious act.”

Prague’s Pirate Party councillor, Zdenek Hrib.

Good Neighbours

John Smith

WE continue with details of those commended for the Good Neighbour Awards 2024 as announced by Age in Spain.

Steve Laidlow was nominated and won commendation for his Dream Centre. Arriving in 2019 for retirement in Hondon de los Frailes, Alicante, Steve with his wife Ann quickly forgot about retirement and with their own savings initially converted a warehouse and collected clothing and food to distribute to the poor.

After this came the Dream Centre, a purpose-built facility which houses a café and a thrift shop, as well as providing a venue for social gatherings and activities such as line dancing, poetry readings, a men’s group ‘Men with Purpose’ and a woman’s group, ‘Women of Destiny’. The Dream Centre is also a

venue for church services.

Steve and Ann are missionaries with many years’ experience internationally. They are members of the Acorn International Church. They see their work with people in Hondon de los Frailes as part of the mission of the Church, and

helping people as their ministry.

Both are experienced councillors and pastoral workers. Says Steve, encouraging people to come and join in their activities : “The church that’s alive is worth the drive to help people discover an extraordinary life.”

Credit: Age in Spain

THE DREAM CENTRE: A purpose-built facility.

ON Thursday, March 14, the UK announced: ‘Mr Alex Ellis CMG has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain and non-resident Ambassador to the Principality of Andorra in succession to Mr Hugh Elliott who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mr Ellis will take up his appointment during summer 2024.’

The outgoing ambassador to Spain, Hugh Elliott, took to social media to share his thoughts: ‘After five wonderful years, this summer my term as Ambassador to Spain ends.

New ambassador to Spain

‘Although there are still many months (and work!) left, I am delighted to congratulate my great friend and colleague @Alexwe llis, who will take over as of September.’

What does the change in ambassadors mean for the future of Gibraltar? The diplomatic transition comes after three years and 16 rounds of negotiations between London, Brussels, and Madrid.

As for the time being, talks have yet to yield an agreement on Gibraltar’s status following the UK’s departure from the European Union.

Elliot, who has been a pivotal figure in these negotiations, is departing after a five-year tenure. His efforts were central to the New Year’s Eve Agreement on December 31, 2020, ai-

ming to foster shared prosperity between Gibraltar and the Campo de Gibraltar in Cadiz.

The Spanish Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, described the agreement as a step towards dismantling the physical separation fence.

However, several crucial issues, such as border control and taxation, remain unresolved. In October 2022, Elliot mentioned the progress but acknowledged the existence of ‘thorny issues.’

Ellis, coming from his position as British High Commissioner in New Delhi and former National Security Advisor, has a rich background in international negotiations. His previous roles inclu-

de Director of the Department of Exiting the European Union, ambassador in Brasilia, Lisbon, and Madrid.

This experience is expected to be invaluable as he navigates the complex issues at stake, including the joint management of Gibraltar’s airport and the post-transition positioning of Spanish officials.

The arrival of Ellis marks a crucial phase in the negotiations, with his expertise anticipated to help resolve the longstanding issues, including military and civil movement through Gibraltar. His appointment signifies the UK’s ongoing commitment to finding a mutually beneficial agreement for all parties involved.

Alex Ellis will become ambassador to Spain in September 2024.

SCHOOLS in Sweden are facing a rising rate of absenteeism, which has increased after the pandemic.

The most recent survey from the Swedish National Agency for Education revealed in 2021 that up to 35 per cent of ninth-graders (English year 11 equivalent), had a 15 per cent rate, and up to 3 per cent had 50 per cent absence rate from school.

Schools across the country are confirming the rates continue to rise.

Skipping school in Sweden Golf garden

In Sandviken, a municipality in Sweden, the authorities have spent the past few years working on projects to reduce the number of students who skip school.

The manager, Sofia Björkqvist, stated: “absence from school is one of the biggest problems that schools have today.”

There are currently four attendance coordinators in the town and the authorities are concerned about the future. “Absence from school is like a symptom of how society is feeling and in addition to the risk of not reaching the goals, you risk ending up in an exclusion,” Sofia stated her concern.

Many professionals, including Malin Gren Landell, have explained the

rise in absenteeism to the Covid crisis: “my picture is that the problem is very big and the absence in some places has in-

creased after the pandemic.”

One of the school directors in Sundsvall, at St Olofsskolan, Øyvind Eriksen,

agreed: “if you are at home for a long time, even the social part becomes a challenge to achieve.” Øyvind highlighted that communication between schools and families is essential to resolving this problem: “it is this close dialogue with the guardians that we need to achieve.”

In recent years, approximately 15 per cent of Swedish students finished ninth grade without a high school qualification (English GCSE equivalent). Will the trend continue to grow?

PROTESTORS belonging to Portuguese climate activist group, Climáximo, invaded the Oeiras golf course, just 10 minutes outside the capital Lisbon, armed with gardening tools with the intention of planting vegetables along the fairway of the course.

The plan was to transform the golf course into an urban vegetable garden for food production. A statement from Climáximo said: “The crime of continuing to use energy and water resources to maintain golf courses in the midst of a climate crisis needs to be stopped. We are in the 10th consecutive hottest month ever.

“The Algarve is running out of water and we are facing drought in agricultural and forest land, the emptying of dams, rivers and ponds, leaving hundreds of farmers across the country

in distress. It is criminal that in this emergency situation they continue to prioritise luxury and unnecessary consumption.”

The protestors aimed to show how people can, “build a world based on real interests and needs, stop criminal and inappropriate consumption by the super-rich, and give new purposes to places that currently are of restricted access to the elites who are most to blame for the climate crisis.”

Climáximo states that, “the increase in food prices due to the impacts of the climate crisis through drought is clearly felt and compromises people’s access to essential food items.”

In a previous protest, Climáximo supporters entered the Paço do Lumiar golf course and rendered several holes unusable by cementing them over.

RECENT SURVEY: Shows an increase in absenteeism.

Credit: RDNE Stock project, Pexels

“I’ll buy myself a Vespa”

AT the age of 103, Giuseppina Molari was stopped by the carabinieri while driving her car with no licence or insurance. The incident occurred at around 1am on Monday March 11 in Bondeno, in the province of Ferrara in Italy.

Giuseppina Molari, known to everyone as ‘Giose’, said, “The carabinieri were good. I’ve always cared about my autonomy and now I’ll use my bicycle to get around or I’ll buy myself a Vespa.”

The sprightly old lady was returning home after spending a quiet evening with friends when she ended up getting disoriented and could no longer find her way back to her home. It was a citizen who reported to police her unmistakable white Fiat Panda proceeding in a dangerous manner, continuing to drive around the same streets.

The Carabinieri stopped her and got a surprise after checking the elderly

THIS year from April 4 until April 6, Amsterdam is hosting the world’s biggest Coffee Festival with tasty samples, exceptional baristas and live music.

The festival will be held at Westergas, inviting coffee specialists and enthusiasts to dive into a three-day immersion in the world

Ageing in the

Netherlands

Photo: Shutterstock / Emilia Kohn Montero

woman’s driving licence and learning her year of birth - 1920. Her car was picked up by a tow truck, which loaded it and transported it to the place she had requested. The lady was finally driven home by the carabinieri, thus putting an end to her night out.

The news of what happened caused hilarity in her home town, where the woman, who will soon blow out her 104th birthday candle, is well-known and has many friends.

MORE does not mean better, proves the nursing home deterioration in the Netherlands.

The number of commercial nursing homes in the Netherlands has increased fivefold in the past 10 years. Exceptional support for the elderly was expected, yet experts are now concerned about the quality of medical care and living conditions in the establishments.

In the past two years, there has been an increase of 100 new homes for seniors, but quality treatment has been disregarded.

The LHV (National Association of General Practitioners) have expressed their worry about the

Amsterdam Coffee Festival

of coffee.

There are various tickets available already, with options for oneday entry, three-day admission, and more. Starting from €18 admission.

There will be 100+ artisan co-

ffee roasters, equipment and food brands on display, with free samples of gourmet coffee and snacks.

Meet specialist baristas and roasters and watch 15 of them compete for the title of one winner in the Roast Masters com-

standards of medical care in the centres for the elderly: “In commercial nursing homes, there is not always a geriatric specialist or geriatric psychiatrist present.”

Moreover, in the past few years, LPZ (International Prevalence Measurement of Care Quality) has evaluated the conditions in the Netherlands’ care ho-

petition: inspiring the future coffee-makers. Watch the top latte art methods, demonstrated by the world’s best baristas and partake in masterclasses to learn the techniques yourself.

Sharpen your taste and mind, by learning about the origins of

mes. The surveys revealed that the number of malnutrition cases amongst seniors in commercial nursing homes has risen to more than 16 per cent. This has prompted the organisation’s research into the structure of the national establishments, to question the nursing staff and prevent a further increase in the figures.

coffee, coffee pairings and every type of drink on the market, from the most experienced workers in the field. Indulge in coffee culture to live music from established DJs and discover how to take your coffee habits to the next level.

Tickets available at amsterdam coffeefestival.com.

NURSING HOMES: Experts are concerned about quality of medical care.

Credit:

Woman had no licence or insurance.

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The town of caves

THE word troglodyte has one or two somewhat unfavourable meanings but it was originally used to simply describe someone who lived in a cave.

It is believed that the Spanish town in Cadiz Province, now known as Setenil de las Bodegas was first settled some 12,000 years ago in the Stone Age and the inhabitants found that the many caves there made very acceptable homes. Like so many other areas of southern Spain, the area was taken over by the Moors about 1,300 years ago and they built a fortified town with a castle (and its restored tower still exists) and used the caves for storage.

As the Christians regained the whole of the area, so a new generation of ‘Spaniards’ moved into the area and for some centuries the caves were used by the poor as homes but times change and now they have been taken

over by businesses.

It is a tourist attraction and visitors (generally those who don’t suffer from claustrophobia) flock to the area and enjoy walking along the two main streets, Calle de Sol (Sun) and Calle de Sombra (Shade) stopping for a drink or bite to eat at one of the many bars and restaurants which are basically built into the caves.

On a warm day, with the Rio Guadalporcún running through the town, it

is easy to close your eyes and imaging life in Medieval times, provided you can phase out the sound of vehicles, other people chattering and music. There is plenty more to see in Setenil de las Bodegas but in reality, it’s the concept of walking along a street that is covered by a huge millennia old slab of rock which encourages visitors and helps employ a good percentage of the 3,000 residents of the town.

Enjoying a sunny afternoon in Setenil de las Bodegas.

Credit: Andrei Dimofte Creative Commons

IRELAND

Too fast

ROAD deaths in the European Union fell by an average of 1 per cent in 2023, compared with the previous year, but in Ireland they increased by 19 per cent with 184 people losing their lives, a 33 per cent increase on pre-pandemic 2019. Police attributed the rise to speeding and mobile phone use while driving.

Bog off

REFERRING Ireland to the EU’s Court of Justice, the European Commission claimed it had failed to put a stop to persistent peat-cutting in protection areas for raised and blanket bogs. The sites were continually degraded through drainage and turf-cutting activities, with insufficient action taken to restore them, the EU said.

NORWAY

Royal pacemaker

KING HARALD was fitted with a permanent pacemaker at the Rikshospitalet in Oslo on March 12 to replace the temporary device that was implanted at a hospital in Malaysia after the 87-year-old monarch was taken ill while on holiday. “The operation was successful, and the King is doing well,” the palace said afterwards.

No camping

CRITICS condemned Bergen city hall’s decision to ban overnight camping in parks, public spaces and on roadsides, claiming this was directed at keeping the homeless off the streets. “We’re a city known for promoting human rights, but now we’re distancing ourselves from that,” the Red Party’s Mailiss Solheim Akerblom claimed.

EURO PRESS

GERMANY PORTUGAL

May date

THE final of the Festival da Cançao 2024 to select the song and performer that will represent Portugal in the Eurovision Song Contest was won by Iolanda and the composition Grito. The programme had an average audience of 486,000, which amounted to 12 per cent of all viewers but was 74,000 down on 2023.

No problem

THE recently-published European Social Survey (ESS) found that Portugal, along with the UK, Spain and Norway, was one of the countries where respondents were most open to immigration. The ESS study also found that the perception of immigration as a threat was lower than the average for European countries.

Less red tape

GERMANY’S government will cut down on bureaucracy after the Cabinet agreed to a new law that would digitise paperwork and bring savings of €625 million in space, rental and storage costs. “Reducing bureaucracy is one of the federal government’s major tasks, one of our major projects,” Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared.

ITALY FRANCE

Uniform charge

A COUPLE from Mussolini’s birthplace, Predappio, faced prosecution for dressing their small son as a member of the ONB fascist youth movement in October 2022. Public prosecutors said they and others who were celebrating the centenary of Mussolini’s March on Rome should be tried for breaking anti-fascism laws.

Bear facts

EIGHTEEN people are under investigation for online hate crimes after blaming Andrea Papi, who was mauled to death by a bear while out running in Trentino, for the subsequent court order to have it put down. Instead, the female bear thought to be defending her cubs, was eventually reprieved and rehomed to another area.

Invader shot

A HUNTER in Wadden Sea coastal area shot a raccoon, an invasive species which endangers native wildlife and can be legally killed year-round in Denmark. “Raccoons have spread significantly in Germany and we can expect increasing numbers here,” Jan Boge, director of the Wadden Sea National Park told the DR broadcaster.

Called up

DENMARK’S plans to introduce military service for women will make it one of the few countries requiring females to spend time in the armed forces. Speaking on March 13, Defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen said that “robust conscription, including full gender equality” would contribute to solving defence challenges.

Frog warning

SCIENTISTS and conservationists said that consumption of frogs’ legs needed stricter regulation. Between 2010 and 2019, France imported 30,015 tons of frogs’ legs, a Nature Conservation study found, which has prompted warnings that continuing demand could ‘decimate’ frog populations in Indonesia and Turkey.

Going for gold

FRANCE’S Ministry of the Economy issued a five-year prospecting permit to Aurelius Resources, a subsidiary of British operator Aurelius Resources. The authorisation covers a 39.19-square kilometre in the Limousin area where the company will seek minerals that include gold, silver, antimony, tungsten, cobalt and lithium.

FINLAND

Early birds

TWO bears at Helsinki Zoo woke from their winter hibernation in early December after only six weeks, one of the shortest hibernation periods ever known there. After their December awakening, the two females returned for a seven-day sleep during the February cold snap before abandoning their dens once more.

Smoothed over

SKATERS are enjoying unusually smooth ice on the sea ice off Helsinki, formed after surface snow began to melt in February but froze over when the temperature dropped again, creating a glassy effect. The authorities warned skaters that the ice remained thick but to venture out only with adequate safety equipment.

SWEDEN

Lichen fears

SAMI reindeer herders in northern Sweden said deforestation threatened their way of life and the animals they depend on. The herders explained that reindeer need lichen which only grows in old forests to survive, and they are on the brink of starvation as the ancient trees disappear, together with their own means of support.

Rat trap

AS Malmo prepares to host the Eurovision Song Contest in May, city authorities brought in ferrets and dogs to eliminate the rats they have been combatting over the past year. “We’re putting in extra-special efforts on locations where the Contest will be held,” the company which provides the ferrets and dogs told SVT television.

BELGIUM

Picture that!

L’AMI INTIME (The intimate friend) by the Belgian surrealist artist Rene Magritte recently fetched £33.6 million (€39.37 million) at Christie’s in London. Collectors Gilbert and Lena Kaplan bought the painting in 1980 but loaned it to Belgium’s Royal Fine Arts Museums for a 1998 exhibition in Brussels.

Crane drama

A CRANE carrying out track maintenance near Belsele collapsed onto an empty train which derailed, damaging tracks, cables and a gantry as well as an oncoming train, none of whose passengers were affected. The crane operator jumped clear although the driver of the empty train and his assistant suffered minor injuries.

NETHERLANDS

Help needed

ROUGHLY half of the over-55s, especially the single, find it difficult to manage cooking, housework and finances, figures from the Netherlands’ Central Statistics Agency revealed. Thirty-four per cent of people over 75 admitted that they “struggled” with at least one household chore or could not do it at all.

Time to go

AFTER the EU lifted sanctions against Arkady Volozh, the Russian billionaire can again access his European possessions including an Amsterdam mansion occupied by squatters. As a court ruled in 2023 that they could remain while Volzh’s assets were frozen, the oligarch’s lawyers now argue that this means they must go.

OLAF SCHOLZ: Less red tape is a priority, Germany’s Chancellor said.

La Granada - the restaurant I call my home

Anna Akopyan

ZHIRAYR AKOPYAN, from Armenia, has dedicated the past eight years of his life to nurturing his restaurant, La Granada, creating a space where delightful cuisine and a warm social atmosphere await each client.

Zhirayr spent half of his life living in Moscow, where he met his wife Katerina, but he always cherished the days spent by the Armenian mountains, with friends gathering for home-made dinners.

After coming to Spain with his family every summer, Zhirayr discovered the Calpe Ifach mountain and felt immediately at home.

In 2013, the family moved to Calpe. Being a business owner since his early 20s, Zhirayr found himself lit up with the idea of opening a restaurant.

With little knowledge of Spanish but a huge passion for gas-

years later.

Fortunately, La Granada had already become the favourite spot of many locals and visitors, so Zhirayr didn’t give up. He partnered with his friend John Beattie, an English man who had been coming to La Granada every time he visited Spain. Zhirayr encouraged John to move to Calpe and he finally relocated.

tronomy, Zhirayr and his wife opened La Granada in 2016, nestled on Calpe’s shoreline, with a breathtaking view of the sea.

fish, delicious meat and tasty tapas have stood out amongst many on the coast.

Zhirayr wanted to pay homage to his home country, and one of La Granada’s signature dishes is roasted lamb, made by traditional Armenian customs.

The restaurant regularly updates its services with special Day Menus and unique cocktails.

for our service.”

Zhirayr never regretted his decision. “The best thing about having a restaurant is getting to know people from all over the world and seeing their gratitude

Zhirayr developed the menu with his wife, inspired not only by Mediterranean cuisine but also by home-made meals made with love.

Facing many struggles, Zhirayr and Katerina separated and closed the restaurant a few

For John and Zhirayr, La Granada has become a place of comfort, where one is guaranteed to be surrounded by friends, exceptional cuisine and atmospheric music.

La Granada reopened soon after the pandemic, in a bigger venue, located on the same street, and renovated its design with the local artist, painting Armenian nature on the walls.

The menu was also renovated, with new chefs: the fresh

Located at Paseo Muñoz Grande 17, Calpe

Creating memorable moments, La Granada hosts live flamenco concerts by professional local musicians every Friday, and Zhirayr’s daughter, Anne Gerald, often performs jazz and blues in the afternoons.

With a growing clientele, Zhirayr is optimistic about 2024: “It is like a snowball. Every day, you meet new people. If you work hard, it builds up and that’s how you grow. It’s all done through the people.”

To book WhatsApp or call +34 671 220 653 or visit La Granada on Facebook. Open every day except Wednesday, from 10am until 11pm.

Trevor Colt SPEND your Sunday morning strolling the stalls of fresh fruits, artisan crafts and local specialities to the sound of joyful live music.

Every Sunday, 9.30am until 2pm, Denia’s Drivein Cinema transforms into a local flea market, with a wide range of products

Sunday stroll

including fruits, vegetables, home-made pastries, local olives, honey, and natural cosmetics.

Enjoy a newly discovered sweet snack, while resting in the sitting area to watch live music performances

and have a coffee. Find jewellery, paintings by local artists, and healing crystals; discover unmatched gifts for your loved ones.

Family-friendly venue and free parking available.

Irish in Benidorm

THIS month, the streets of Benidorm livened, not only due to Las Fallas preparations but thanks to the festivity of the Irish residents and visitors.

For the entire day on March 17, Benidorm

became a ‘green zone’ for the celebration of St Patrick’s Day.

St Patrick is known as one of the city’s most popular festivals, alongside traditional Spanish holidays, and

has been celebrated on a grand scale since the 1980s. This year, the city turned entirely green.

From Sunday morning until the next, the streets united people in joyful parades, attracting visitors and locals alike.

Local bars and restaurants hosted special entertainment, and live music, and offered the finest Irish cuisine with the best beer in town.

It was a celebration for all; despite the nationalities, the Irish spark could not be missed.

Red Cross donation

Anna Akopyan

THIS month, Caring for Calpe, made another meaningful contribution to Cruz Roja, aiding the young people and children of the municipality.

A presentation of the €1,000 donation was held in Calpe, to aid the local youths in need.

This was one of the many achievements of Calpe’s charity store which has been supporting the town for the past 22 years.

Caring for Calpe is a compact second-hand store with gems of preloved clothes, jewellery and household goods, offered for appealing bargains.

The shop is operated entirely by Englishspeaking volunteers who have been lifting the community for years. Every single purchase and donation in the store goes to a good cause of strengthening the

municipality. From local schools to children’s homes, Caritas, and the Guardia Civil, Caring for Calpe assists every sector of the town and invites you to donate unwanted items or purchase retro

items with a story, to make a difference.

Open every day except Sunday, from 10am until 1.30pm and from 10.30am on Fridays.

Located in Gabriel Miro, Galerias Mar Azul, across Druni, Calpe.

Credit: Cruz Roja, Facebook

Caring for Calpe donation check to Cruz Roja

Lady’s Looks

Bridgette Hudson

ELS MAGAZINOS in Denia is hosting an exhibition of 14 women artists, inviting visitors to experience the nature of womanhood.

The Mirades de Dona (Lady’s Looks) exhibition commenced on International Women’s Day and will be available to the public until April 11.

The collective exhibition displays works of paintings, collages, photography and textile art, made by Mediterranean women, five of them residents of Denia. These are Carmen Ruano, Andrea Pidal, Almudena Perez, Andrea Landa and Nina Llorens.

CHILDREN and parents are invited to join the Lions’ Club Easter event on March 30, partaking in a fun treasure hunt.

From 11am until 1pm, the Lions Club will be hosting the participants of the egg hunt at Moraira’s Ampolla beach. You will find them close to the lake, with a table set up by the beach gazebo.

The entry is free and the activity involves the children setting off for an exciting egg hunt in the immediate area of Moraira, around the castle, the park and the beach. Parents are welcome

Carmen spoke out about her art: “My work has fundamentally revolved around women; their role in society, gender stereotypes, the violence that women suffer.”

With this exhibition, the women are raising the awareness of women’s rights and creating a space where femininity, in all its forms, is celebrated.

“This exhibition aspires to foster dialogue that helps to lead the way to equality through art,” said the organisers, Fundacio Balearia.

Visit the exhibition at Carrer Pont 19, Sala ‘El Taller Turia’ in Els Magazinos.

Children’s Easter

to join in.

All participants are given a chocolate Easter treat at the end.

Teulada-Moraira Lions Club is part of LCIF (Lions Club International): the world’s largest charity organisation and has been serving the Costa Blanca community since 1994 by hosting regular events and uniting the community.

The Children’s Easter was organised in collaboration with Teulada-Moraira Town Council.

La Font Restaurante in La Villajoyosa A garden atmosphere by the sea

by Beverley Chaplin

LA FONT RESTAURANTE is a cosmopolitan bar in the first line on the seafront in the wonderful town of La Villajoyosa in the northern Costa Blanca. The name ‘Villajoyosa’ translates into English as ‘Joyous Town’, and this international restaurant certainly exemplifies the town’s joyous nature.

La Font has been a family-run business, established in 2001 and was originally owned by Anna and Mike Pearce. Their son, Brad, took over the business in 2017 after his parents’ retirement. With stunning views of the Mediterranean, the restaurant is surrounded by mature shrubs and plants, creating a garden atmosphere by the sea.

The restaurant serves delicious international cuisine with a congenial atmosphere which makes customers return time and time again. Many of Brad’s customers have been coming to dine here for years, with many of them becoming Brad’s personal friends. That’s not to say that the business isn’t popular with the locals, however. With a menu in both Spanish

and English, the restaurant serves dishes which appeal to a wide range of tastes. There are a variety of tapas (raciones) including Mussels, Calamares, Sardines, Russian Salad and many more traditional Spanish tapas. Alongside this, Brad offers English dishes including a full English breakfast served all day, Steak with various sauces (salsas) as well as good old English Fish ‘n’ Chips. There is also a very reasonable Menu del Dia which includes either an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink, bread and dessert or coffee. There is also a Children’s Menu for the little ones to enjoy.

The restaurant is dog-friendly and there are two terraces, one right in front of the restaurant and a larger terrace right on the edge of the seafront, from which customers can enjoy spectacular views of the sea.

Brad is an extremely amiable and en-

tertaining host with a ready smile and a quick wit which immediately makes you feel at home and as if you are one of the family. Brad is ably assisted by his Spanish staff who provide excellent food with a smile. Special requests are catered for and customers are always offered a ‘chupito’, a drink on the house after their meal. The restaurant is open Sunday to Friday from 10am to 6pm.

Brad attributes his success to the consistency of his food. He says that he ‘loves having a laugh with the customers’, and he is certainly a fountain of knowledge about the area, often making suggestions of places to visit to holidaymakers and he states that he aims to keep prices ‘lower than most other restaurants’, thereby providing quality food at a very competitive price.

La Playa in La Villajoyosa boasts many fine restaurants and dining experiences, but for me, the standard of food and convivial atmosphere, especially the undivided attention of Brad and his staff, makes La Font stand out. It’s a little gem!

Steak

Is it any wonder

LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

TWICE, in my oft turbulent life existence I have experienced immigrant status. At present it has of course been here in Spain, happily ensconced for the last 43 years on the delightful and stunningly beautiful island of Mallorca. However before landing here I did reside as a somewhat temporary immigrant of eight years in the early developing days of Saudi Arabia.

Back then of course, apart from the palaces and homes of the mega rich, it had almost nothing to offer except money. Electricity and phone systems were being installed across the land. Football stadiums, sky scrapers, magnificent cities and water supplies were under construction and it was altogether an exciting and often somewhat harrowing time to exist while endeavouring to coin in some of the riches they were lavishly handing out.

Initially I went in under a visa issued by a somewhat questionable Saudi sponsor as one of his lorry drivers. My

main purpose was however to attempt the introduction of entertainment to the fun starved British workers and ultimately the local populace. You’ll have to order my books from Amazon to read the almost unbelievable results of all that. What was important and totally alien was of course the fact that I was residing among a 99 per cent Muslim populace. With Jeddah being in the close proximity of Mecca and the annual Hajj, to show respect for the Saudis (and stay out of jail!) I decided to comply with the local rules and regulations as best I could. There were no churches or places of worship for any alternative beliefs (and still aren’t!) which also meant, with the country now importing thousands of British workers and families, the Christian followers simply had nowhere to gather.

Subsequently a small group of around a dozen or so decided to use one of the small classrooms of the local school, (which catered exclusively for immigrants’ offspring), as a place to hold a Sunday morning prayer meeting. They lasted three weeks. The whole country was riddled with Saudi spies and one harrowing Sunday morning

the dozen or so, perfectly law abiding, Christian worshipers were subsequently raided by the religious police, arrested and thrown into jail. There followed complete uproar among the authorities and bosses of the foreign contracted companies, which finally resulted in at least three perfectly innocent parishioners being deported and the remainder restricted to their own ‘compounds’ on a Sunday.

Is it any wonder therefore, when this ol boy sees vast numbers of mosques being constructed in the UK, many funded by the Saudis, with the Muslim mayor of London allowed to happily pepper the centre of Britain’s capital city with lights celebrating the Islamic religious month of Ramadan, it doesn’t get me utterly miffed? Believe me, if the Muslim immigrant population tries to turn the UK into the same countries many of them ran from (Over 50 where actually being Christian evokes persecution or the death penalty) then parts of the UK will begin to resemble the Beirut I prophesised some 30 years ago. Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

Flying squirrels

EU laws mandate the protection of the Siberian flying squirrel, a unique species mainly found in Finland and Estonia, by preventing any unnecessary disturbance to its habitat.

In Finland, projects like the one in Pori need to follow regulations to avoid harming flying squirrel habitats.

Recently, when flying squirrel droppings were found at a proposed construction site in Pori, the project was put on hold.

The city then hired an environmental consultancy to survey the area thoroughly, identifying suitable breeding sites and trees where droppings were found.

The Yyterinniemi peninsula near Pori, known for its port and industrial development, is being carefully planned to balance economic growth with protecting

the environment.

The survey aims to locate and safeguard habitats preferred by the flying squirrel, preventing the destruction of vital ecosystems.

This isn’t the first time the Siberian flying squirrel has affected development in Finland.

The construction of the Helsinki-Espoo inter-city tram line was stopped four years ago for similar reasons.

Ongoing research, such as tracking flying squirrels with radio collars, helps understand their movements and habitat needs, guiding urban planning decisions.

LEAPY

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

A different culture

GABY CONSIDERE moved from Paris to Valencia with her husband and a four-year-old daughter and has defined it as a “growing experience”.

GABY was living in a small apartment in Paris with her family and dreamt about moving to a bigger place. She and her husband already had friends in Valencia, and with their advice, felt ready for the move.

Gaby is a physiotherapist, as well as a yoga and pilates teacher. She was not unaccustomed to moving: “I lived in London and Dublin for seven years, and then Paris for 10.”

She has friends from all over the world, even now, when living in Valencia and says she “gets by”, for speaking only basic Spanish.

She mentioned that she misses her family and friends back in Paris, and her work as a physiotherapist, but is happy to meet new people and continue practising sports every day.

Gaby Considere.

“I like it here. It’ s quite a different culture. I love the weather of course, and being close to the sea,” shared Gaby.

She spoke about the changes she had faced when moving: “Moving here has taught me a lot about myself. It has been extremely challenging; trying to get a job, making friends, and feeling lonely. But it has been a growing experience.”

She confessed that moving countries is not as fast and easy once you have children: “It was easier when I was younger and a student, but when there are children involved, things get more serious and moving can seem quite definite.”

Credit: Gaby Considere, Facebook

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Pay boost

FAST fashion retailer Primark will give 27,000 shop staff pay rises averaging 9.1 per cent from April 1 as it joins other retailers in responding to the increase in the minimum wage. This will increase hourly rates in England, Scotland and Wales to £12 (€14.02) and £12.56 (€14.68) for employees working in London.

Huge numbers

A SURVEY by management consultants Alvarez & Marsal found that following the Bankia merger CaixaBank now holds €587 billion deposited by clients in current accounts, savings accounts, investment funds and pension plans. This corresponds to 29.8 cent of the domestic market, overtaking both Santander and BBVA.

Big boss

AS Britain’s Chancellor Jeremy Hunt prepares to provide another £6bn (€7.01bn) for the NHS, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that the health service currently accounts for one in three of the UK’s public sector jobs. The NHS payroll has now risen above two million for the first time.

Madrid choice

GOLDMAN SACHS chose Madrid as headquarters for its Newdock centre as it expands its European logistics project.

Newdock, headed by Fatima Saez del Cano, focuses on developing and managing ultramodern logistics spaces in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy for Goldman Sachs Asset Management’s clients and entities.

Stored up

ANN SUMMERS, known for its ‘adult toys and accessories’, posted £105 million (€122.7 million) in sales, with profits of £62 million (€72.5 million) for the year ending July 2023. Despite an increased online presence, its 86 stores were still the most profitable part of its business.

THE UK is on course to emerge from recession as the economy returned to growth with a 0.2 per cent increase in January.

Britain’s gross domestic product (GDP) fell 0.3 per cent between October and December 2023, preceded by a 0.1 per cent dip during 2023’s third quarter, figures that put the country into recession.

Retail spending increased by 3.4 per cent in January and construction rose by 1.1 per cent, although production, which included manufacturing, shrank by 0.2 per cent, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed.

January’s growth will not have surprised Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, who stated in February that the down-

€79.85 billion STAT OF WEEK

or 13.9 per cent of the cash generated by Spain’s 40 biggest companies including Inditex, Iberdrola and Telefonica, went to the government in 2022.

Growing again

turn would be one of the “shallowest and shortest in 70 years.”

The January figures came as a boost for Britain’s PM Rishi Sunak, who has pledged to grow the economy, and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt who

announced when introducing the Budget on March 6 that the UK “had turned the corner.”

Referring to the January GDP figures on March 13, Hunt admitted that recent years “had been tough.”

Suren Thiru, economics

Another ace for Nadal

RAFAEL NADAL won two Grand Slams in 2022, the same year that Nadal family’s holding company Aspemir made a €19.9 million profit.

This was 75 per cent up on 2021 and 255 per cent on 2020, thanks to the 22 companies in the Aspemir portfolio.

Accounts submitted to the Registro Mercantil, Spain’s equivalent to Companies House, showed that the sports facilities were the most profitable, with Centre Sportiu Manacor contributing €3.7 million and the Rafa

Nadal International School academy bringing in €1.17 million.

Aspemir’s real estate investments made respective profits of €6.7 million and €2.4 million for Naiad 2012 and the Mabel Villa de Paris luxury development in Madrid.

Via Mabel Capital, in which it has a 33.3 per cent stake, Aspemir has holdings in hotels, restaurants - including the successful Tatel chain - plus the Komodo production company behind the Mad Cool music festival and the Netflix series, I am Georgina.

director at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW), nevertheless warned that the monthly figures could decline again in February when heavy rainfall deterred shoppers.

Quoted in the Telegraph, James Smith from the Resolution Foundation, pointed out that notwithstanding the 0.2 per cent rise, growth remained sluggish.

“Britain is far from ending its period of prolonged stagnation, with the economy yet to return to its pre-pandemic size on a per-person basis,” he said.

Hard to get Another record Rather better

THE Bank of Spain’s quarterly update increased its 2024 growth prediction from December’s 1.6 per cent to 1.9 per cent.

The regulator now expects a more moderate slowdown following a better-than-expected increase in the gross domestic product (GDP) in the last quarter of 2023, bringing its forecast nearer to the Spanish government’s 2 per cent estimate.

Projections for 2025 and 2026 remained unchanged at 1.9 per cent and 1.7 per cent, the Bank said, but despite the recent restraint in Spain’s growth rate, this would still be more than the European Central Bank’s 0.6 per cent prediction for the eurozone.

INDITEX shares climbed by 7.7 per cent after the Spanish fashion chain announced its full-year 2023 results on March 13. Last year’s net profits soared to €5.4 billion, 30.3 per cent more than in 2022, with sales rising 10 per cent to the company’s highest-ever turnover of €35.9 billion.

The Zara company increased its lead over Swedish rival H&M thanks to being able to deliver trends faster from its nearby suppliers and sell more clothes at higher prices, Inditex’s chief executive Oscar Garcia Maceiras said. He also revealed that the company had a strong start to 2024 with sales up 11 per cent between February and March, compared with the same period last year.

Meanwhile, Inditex founder and former chairman Amancio Ortega will receive dividends of €2.846 billion in 2024.

VIRGIN MONEY high-rankers would share in a £6 million (€7.01 million) handout if the Nationwide Building Society takeover goes ahead.

After years of accumulating stock at Virgin Money, the 13 executives, board members and senior staff could expect to receive a windfall from the proposed £3 billion (€3.5 billion) deal.

David Duffy, chief executive of Virgin Money co-founded in 1995 by Sir Richard Branson, stands to gain most as he would be in line to receive £3.5 million (€4.09 million) for his 1.6 million shares.

US hedge fund Elliott discarded plans to take over UK electricals firm Currys after two bids were turned down.

Elliott initially offered £700 million (€818.3 million,) followed by another of £756 million (€883.7 million) for Currys.

Following the double rejection, the American company then said it was not in a position to make an improved offer “on the basis of the public information available to it.” City analysts maintained that the Currys board was “unlikely” to consider any bid below an offer valuing the company at £900 million (€1.05 billion).

BRITAIN’S government intends to introduce legislation that would prevent foreign powers from owning UK newspapers and news magazines.

The far-reaching move would halt the proposed £600 million (€701.2 million) purchase of the Telegraph by RedBird IMI, a fund that is backed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, vice-president of the United Arab Emirates, and a private US investment company.

Media minister Lord Stephen Parkinson announced that the government would be putting forward an amendment that would result in blocking the deal, in a move that goes further than an early campaign by Baroness Tina Stowell to prevent the sale.

SPAIN’S Cabinet Meeting on March 12 has given the Orange-MasMovil merger the goahead. The government authorised the operation from the point of view of foreign investment in a Spanish company, while bearing in mind the concessions that both companies have made to the fast-growing mobile operator, low-cost Digi.

Consent follows on from recent authorisation from the European Commission, which has subjected the €18.6 billion merger that was first announced two years ago to close scrutiny, owing to the competition and monopoly implications of the deal.

Photo credit: Flickr/Shinya

Photo credit: self-build.co.uk

RAFAEL

Neutral stance

RAUL BLANCO, chairman of Renfe, said that Spain’s state-owned railway company was “absolutely neutral” regarding the possible €619 million takeover of rolling stock manufacturer Talgo by Ganz-Mavag Europe.

Renfe had received “no details” of the operation, Blanco said, although the government is known to fear Russian capital could be involved in the deal.

Power play

BRITISH gigafactories and plants refining battery metals will receive cheaper power from April as the government tries to stem dependency on outside sources. China currently controls 70 per cent of the world’s cobalt, 70 per cent of its nickel. 60 per cent of battery-grade lithium and 90 per cent of some rare earths.

Delayed justice

LEGISLATION introduced on March 13 will quash the wrongful convictions of hundreds of UK sub-postmasters.

This would clear the names of those whose lives were ruined through the Horizon computer programme scandal, the Prime Minister announced on March 13.

Affected sub-postmasters will receive an interim payment with the option of an immediate, fixed and final offer of

£600,000 (€702,024) enabling them to finally start

Paradores doing well

PUBLICLY-OWNED Paradores de España ended 2023 with a €328 million turnover.

This was the highest in the hotel chain’s 96 years of existence and 6 per cent more than in 2022, Paradores’ chairwoman, Raquel Sanchez, said.

With net profits of approximately €25 million, 124 per cent up on 2022, the chain was also in the black for the third conse-

cutive year following the pandemic.

Occupancy averaged 71 per cent, compared with 65 per cent in 2019 and 67 per cent in 2022.

The outlook for 2024 was equally encouraging, Sanchez said, taking into account that occupancy for traditionally low-season January and February had averaged 58 per cent, six percentage points more than in 2022.

rebuilding their lives.

For those not choosing this option, claims will be assessed through the usual process, with no limit to compensation.

There will also be £75,000 (€87,764) redress payments for postmasters who were not convicted but suffered because of the scandal.

Those who have already settled will have their compensation adjusted, bringing them in line with the successful approach taken for members of the Group Litigation Order group of postmasters.

“I want to pay tribute to all the postmasters who have shown such courage and perseverance in their fierce campaign for justice,” Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak MP, said.

“Today’s legislation marks an important step forward in finally clearing their names.”

Profits rise

FRENCH sporting goods retailer Decathlon intended to change its image and transform its 175 stores in Spain - the company’s second most-important market after France - and was planning to open more, chief executive Barbara Martin Coppola revealed. In 2022, according to Decathlon’s last available figures, turnover in Spain rose to €2.1 billion with profits of more than €100 million.

Turn around

THE John Lewis Partnership made a pre-tax profit of £56 million (€65.6 million) in the 12 months ending January 27 2024, compared with a loss of £234 million (€274 million) during the previous year.

The retailer, which also owns Waitrose, nevertheless announced that for the third time in four years, staff would not be receiving an annual bonus.

Photo credit: Flickr/number10.gov.uk

DOWNING STREET: Erroneous Horizon convictions quashed.

By Karan Sud Dental

Dental Insurance plan

DENTISTRY in the UK has become almost non existent, impossible to get an appointment. We have so many patients travel here to get treatment.

They all have a similar fear that they may lose their registration, as our database of patients is phenomenal.

So we have decided to introduce a monthly insurance plan for peace of mind, similar to those in the UK such as Denplan.

Our scheme will be a monthly payment of €14 per person.

This will entitle the holder of the policy to have priority treatment including two exams, two scale and polishes and routine X-rays a year.

When we all worked in the UK, we found these plans work very well as it encourages patients to maintain their check-ups and cleans due to

THE quest for effective weight loss strategies often leads to natural remedies, among which apple cider vinegar (ACV) has garnered attention. Touted for its

the fact they are paying monthly, and it’s such a low cost amount you don’t even notice it.

We will develop more comprehensive plans in the future which will include discounts on fillings, crowns and bridges.

By Clinica Britannia

Early detection saves lives

ARE you concerned as there’s a history of Lung Cancer in the family or do you or have you smoked in the past?

We all know that smoking is bad for us and many of us have tried to quit and failed various times. Now available is a new revolutionary tablet that works simply by relieving the withdrawal symptoms that we suffer when stopping smoking, leading to successful results.

Lung cancer, is a tumour type cancer that is notoriously detected at the later stages, usually stage 3 or 4, when treatment outcomes are poor and curative treatment is usually no longer as the disease has spread outside the lung area.

Early detection could save millions of lives as cancer survival rates soar when tumours are detected in their earliest stages. Some stage 1 cancers can be cured with treatment alone. In other types of

early-stage cancer, there is a good chance of remission and a low chance of recurrence with prompt treatment.

A new revolutionary blood test can be performed, which by using as little as a drop of blood can reveal the early onset of lung cancer. This is true even in patients that may be harbouring the disease with no diagnosis, or if it will develop within four years if you stop smoking.

Contact us at Clinica Britannia for further information to discuss if this treatment is suitable for you.

Appointments Landline: 965 837 553 / 965 837 851 • 24H/365D Emergency Number: (+34) 607 255 755 • Opening Times: Mon - Fri: 9:00am / 5:00pm

Clinica Britannia Calpe

Av. Ejercitos Españoles 16 BIS, 1st Floor, Calpe

Natural remedy

potential health benefits, ACV is believed by some to be a catalyst

for shedding pounds when consumed daily. Its acetic acid content

is thought to boost metabolism, reduce water retention, and suppress

appetite, leading to a modest impact on weight loss over time.

weight management.

However, it’s important to note that ACV’s effectiveness for weight loss isn’t a magic solution. Its benefits are best realised when paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Some studies suggest that ACV can help improve blood sugar levels, aiding overall metabolic health, which can indirectly support

Consuming a daily portion of ACV, diluted in water to protect tooth enamel and the esophagus, may contribute to weight control as part of a holistic approach to diet and lifestyle. While ACV may offer a complementary boost, it should not replace conventional dietary changes and physical activity, which are the cornerstones of healthy weight loss.

Unlock exclusive savings

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Established in 2009, NowCompare has been a trusted ally for expats seeking financial relief without compromising on essential services. With almost 15 years of experience, the platform has evolved into the largest expat advisory service, supporting over 10 million expats globally.

NowCompare’s international insurance comparison service empowers expats in Spain to make informed choices. The company’s commitment to transparency has earned it a reputation for unlocking savings of up to 40 per cent, a game-changer in an industry where every euro counts.

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NowCompare invites expats to capitalise on exclusive savings that are typically hard to come by in the realm of health insurance. By comparing the best providers in the market, individuals can now access prices that were once considered unattainable. It’s an opportunity to secure a residency-compliant health insurance plan at a fraction of the cost.

Why NowCompare?

Before NowCompare entered the Spanish market, expats were grappling with high health insurance premiums. The platform’s arrival has disrupted the status quo, empowering expats with the ability to compare, save, and secure the best health insurance coverage. The company’s licensing in Europe underscores its commitment to facilitating the expat experience in Spain.

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www.nowcompare.es

of mind. With offices around the world, the company is uniquely positioned to understand the diverse needs of expats, offering tailored solutions that prioritise both health and financial well-being.

NowCompare.es invites expats in Spain to embark on a journey towards cost-effective and comprehensive health insurance. Seize the opportunity to save, compare, and secure the best health insurance before it’s too late. NowCompare: Your gateway to a healthier and more affordable expat experience in Spain.

Get a quote today, visit www.now compare.es or scan the QR Code.

IN the rapidly evolving landscape of beauty, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR) are revolutionising the way individuals personalise their beauty routines at home. AI-powered beauty apps analyse users’ unique facial features, skin tone, and preferences to recommend tailored skincare and make-

Tech and beauty

up products. This personalised approach ensures that individuals can make informed choices that align with their specific needs.

Furthermore, VR technology enables virtual tryon experiences, allowing users to virtually test di-

fferent make-up looks or hairstyles before making any physical changes.

This empowers individuals to experiment and find styles that resonate with their personal taste, all within the comfort of their homes.

By Clinica Britannia

Do not suffer in silence

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION (ED) is when there is a persistent inability of getting and keeping an erection firm enough for sex, but men should not suffer in silence as treatment is available.

But let’s be clear it is not just the men that suffer when suffering with Erectile Dysfunction but their partners also. Surprisingly it is estimated that half of all men over the age of 40, will have at some degree suffered the problem, causing problems in the personal relationships and self-confidence.

Now available is a non-invasive Extracorporeal Shock wave Therapy (ESWT), this is a clinically proven method and has been used for treating various medical conditions in the past. Treatment consists of low-intensity sound waves passing through the erectile tissue, helping to restore the natural erectile function by clea -

ring plaque out of blood vessels and encouraging the growth of new blood vessels. The shockwave treatment offers a cure in that it reverses the problems that cause the dysfunction in the first place - the most desired win-win outcome coveted by men with ED.

Making healthy lifestyle choices like taking regular exercise, drinking less alcohol, and stopping smoking can help with ED.

Don’t suffer in silence and put unnecessary strain on your relationship, contact us at Clinica Britannia for more information.

Appointments Landline: 965 837 553 / 965 837 851 • 24H/365D Emergency Number: (+34) 607 255 755 • Opening Times: Mon - Fri: 9:00am / 5:00pm

Clinica Britannia Calpe

Av. Ejercitos Españoles 16 BIS, 1st Floor, Calpe

Molino Villas - Suited for you

Anna Akopyan

MOLINO VILLAS has been providing outstanding service across Costa Blanca North since 1999 and has now opened a new office in the heart of Javea.

This month, the Molino Villas team celebrated the opening of their new office in Javea. Surrounded by antique Spanish homes, unlike the typical tourist deals, the new office welcomes international clients, looking for assistance in life-changing decisions. With over 20 years of experience working across the Costa Blanca, the Molino Villas team goes beyond the work of regular agencies, sharing their love for the region by offering authentic ambience and architecture to the clients.

Operated entirely by women, the agency offers service in five languages, including English, Spanish, French, Dutch and German. All of the staff have lived in Spain for over five years, some over 20 and have an in-depth understanding of the local environment. With over 1,000 properties across Costa Blanca, including Denia, Javea, Benitachell, Calpe, and Altea, the agen-

cy continues to impress its clients by choosing the most suitable location and property, considering the client’s aspirations and resources.

Molino Villas has no limits on the type of properties they work with: from villas to fincas, the agency specializes in finding what is suited for you.

“We have something for everyone and if we don’t have it, we will find it for you,” assures the agency. The agency provides impacting assistance to all their customers, helping you integrate into the local community by allocating personal agents who will guide you through choosing schools and finding financial consultants.

Molino Villas welcomes both property-seekers and property-sellers, to whom the team offers free, full evaluation and advice services to ensure their property is seen and valued. The agency is a one-stop-shop, dealing with rentals as well. They assist investors with buying, renting out, marketing, booking and cleaning, whether for

short or long term.

In the competitive market of Costa Blanca, the agency is devoted to strengthening the local business community and lifting others and often collaborates with reputable agents in the area.

Molino Villas takes a unique, human approach to real estate, understanding the difficulties of moving and making

decisions about new properties by guiding you through every step of the moving process, which without professional assistance appears time-consuming and confusing.

“A high percentage of our business comes from referrals, which speaks for itself,”: it is an agency which takes into consideration every specific requirement and wish of its clients, finding hidden gems and homes that will last for generations across the Costa Blanca.

Credit: Anna Akopyan

Credit: Molino Villas, Facebook

Molino Villas team at the opening in Javea.

Just one of the Molino Villas properties.

• News Across The Regions •

Costa del Sol

Linking up

MARBELLA City Council is continuing with its objective of linking the whole of the Paseo Marítimo by means of a pedestrian path with the start of work on a new section in the Los Monteros area, 250 metres in length.

The new link will run from the area of the Palm Beach beach bar to the Morera and will have, as in the other sections, lighting, benches and will be four metres wide.

The mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, visited the works which will be completed in three months with an investment of €350,000 and said, “We are continuing with our roadmap to connect the promenade so our citizens can enjoy this marvellous infrastructure.”

In addition, the whole area will be renovated and protected environmentally.

Axarquia

Charity Craft Fayre

THE recent Caritas Craft Fayre held in Competa proved to be a resounding success, raising a commendable €900 in support of the Caritas charity’s initiatives. Caritas is a globally recognised charitable organisation affiliated with the Catholic Church.

The funds generated from the event will exclusively benefit people and families within the town of Competa, providing essential assistance without discrimination. Caritas’s mission includes various forms of aid, including the provision of basic food supplies, assistance with medication and vaccinations, support for educational needs such as school books, and access to clothing through their charity shop.

Moreover, Caritas extends its support beyond material aid, offering companionship and care to the sick and elderly in their homes, as well as visits to residential care homes and hospitals.

Mallorca €1,000 for spending

A CAMPAIGN to raffle off €1,000 to spend in shops in central Palma is underway.

The employers’ association of small and medium-sized businesses in Mallorca (Pimeco) and the Nou Centre commercial association to revitalise the centre of Palma are promoting the campaign ‘1,000 reasons to make you happy’.

Until April 30, all customers making purchases in one of the participating local shops will receive a coupon to take part in the prize draw. The winner will be announced on the social media accounts of Pimeco and the Associació Nou Centre.

They will have an hour to spend €1,000 in the shops in the area.

The campaign, which has the support of the Consell de Mallorca, aims to boost sales in shops around Les Avenguidas, Calle Aragón and the Parc de les Estacions.

Costa Blanca South Shamrocks & Support

WHAT a wonderful turnout for this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade in Cabo Roig on March 17!

The sun was shining, the music was playing, and everyone had a fantastic Sunday afternoon enjoying watching the dancers and floats go by.

The Samaritans volunteers, wearing their branded t-shirts and carrying collecting buckets, were there as the official charity of the event. The crowd was amazing, and their support was truly generous. In just two hours, the charity managed to collect a very impressive €1,582!

The charity would like to say a big thank you to all the volunteers who took part, to the St Patrick’s Day Committee for choosing the Samaritans, and to every person who donated. It is because of this continued support that the Samaritans can provide their freephone service on 900 525 100

Almeria Solidarity Race

WITH great success in participation and organisation, the ‘Junt@s somos más fuertes’ (Together we are stronger) solidarity race was held in Mojacar, promoted by the local council in collaboration with the Red Cross and the ‘Los Bandidos’ group of Mojacar athletes.

Red Cross volunteers created a space for the little ones with board games, a gymkhana park, children’s bingo and Twister.

The route started from the Red Cross facilities, going as far as the Hotel Indalo and returning. A total of five kilometres, in which the pace, slower or faster, could be chosen by the participants, among whom were adults, teenagers and the occasional pet.

More than 200 people took part in this sporting event with a five-kilometre route along the seafront promenade.

All the proceeds have benefited the Red Cross.

Costa Calida Smashed it again!

THE annual Mother’s Day lunch at the beautiful Ruf Mari Restaurant in Los Urrutias took place on Mother’s Day, and 100 allocated tickets were sold within a week. They had PLAN B, Graham, and Ian providing great music, and after a delicious meal, most of the ladies were dancing.

Volunteers from the Shelters helped with the organisation and, they targeted themselves to make €1,000 for PAPS, LOS INFIERNOS AND MALCOLMS CATS... raising €1,500 on the day, €500 for each shelter.

Veterinary bills are running high, food is more expensive, and the amount of abandoned, stray, and dumped puppies has almost doubled in a year. Please, they need more ongoing help, donations, walkers, admin, fundraisers and volunteers.

Thank you for everyone’s support, it will always make a difference.

OVER many years Neater Heaters have become the first choice of many expats living in Spain.

Behind our stylish Scandinavian designs are a modern state-of-the-art convector heater that can match any on the market for economy and efficiency and beats all the serious competition hands down on price.

The real secret of these heaters is the computer-age technology in the form of extruded aluminium in the construction of the heating element. This material and the design creates a huge surface area for heat transfer, which means more air can be heated for less cost.

Neater Heaters use convection principles and are designed so that the electricity you put into the heater is converted to heat as cheaply as possible. When you turn on the heater the element warms up rapidly and heats

Neater Heaters - efficient, effective and economical

the air around it, this air rises and draws more cold air into the heater.

Because the element is extremely efficient and is designed to have a huge surface area, a large quan tity of air is heated very quickly. If your room has the correct sized heater, it will take about 20 minutes to warm up from cold, after which the heater eases off and works at about two thirds capacity, (depending on various external in-

fluences).

Our heaters are not only efficient, effective, and economical, but as you would expect from a Scandinavian product, they are

extremely stylish and practical. There is a model that will suit anyone, from the BEHA, (Bluetooth option or Wi-Fi option) and the NEO Wi-Fi, so that you can control your heaters easily via a Wi-Fi APP but

still being able to control them manually if preferred, or the trendy original style Neo with digital controls and a choice of colours and if you are limited for wall space then available for purchase are factory designed feet to enable the heater to be freestanding. However, a few years ago we added the NEO Wi-Fi Compact model. This heater shares the design technology and ethos of the current NEO heaters, but it has two differences: It is much smaller in length, thus able to fit into tighter wall spaces, plus this model has the added bonus of a 2.5 kw version as well.

For the month of March and April, Neater Heater are offering a 10% discount off any product in stock on our website. (offer not available at our outlets or on any currently discounted item). Please add discount code, March 24 to the coupon code box when checking out.

NEATER HEATER DISTRIBUTORS: COSTA BLANCA NORTH

MORAIRA: S&W, The Tool Bar. Tel. 965 745 805 • ALTEA: Leo’s Superstore. Tel. 965 844 848

Heaters also available for purchase at our online shop with free home delivery.

WWW.NEATERHEATER.ES or Tel. 634 312 171 (WhatsApp available)

I need a lie down now VIEWS

MAN MIKE SENKER

I HAVE been prescribed another pill which, at my age, is to be expected. I was reading the instructions and it said it had to be taken with 4 fl.oz of water. No problem except I don’t have a clue what 4 fl.oz looks like, which got me thinking about how confusing all that stuff is.

For instance, what’s the difference between a fluid ounce and an ordinary ounce? Did you know that an American gallon and a UK gallon have a difference of about 20 per cent? UK is bigger, but why? Everything is just so confusing. When buying a car I want to know how many mpg it does. I have an old Jeep and didn’t know, until sometime after I bought it, that the units were US measurement ie gallons or I can change it to litres. Have I lost you yet? Then you get litres to 100km. I don’t even know how to compare it. Stick to mpg.

Then you have shoe size. Im a nine. No sir, in USA you’re a 10. No, I’m a nine unless in Europe then I’m a 43!! Waist size 34. Oh no 44 here. Men’s trouser size in

US - hold on they’re the same in US - result! A 42 jacket in UK is 106 – 111 in Europe??????? But then women’s size 12 in UK is an eight in the US and a 40 in Europe!

Ready for more? Have you sold any gold to free up a bit of cash? Well if you ever decide to here’s a warning for you. Do not weigh it on your kitchen scales and then go to the jewellers and be a clever so and so and tell them how much you think it’s worth. Let them weigh it on their scales because a kitchen oz is 10 per cent less than a jewellers oz, or troy oz, as it’s officially called. Confusing isn’t it and totally unneccesary.

How about diamond weight in carats?

The French word carat came from the Italian carato but almost certainly derives from the Arabic qirat which came from the Greek kerátion meaning Carob seed. In Greek and Roman times it was used as a unit of weight. It was probably not used to measure gold at that time They had to find something else for that. So the most precious thing - a diamond - is valued by a seed off a tree because someone realised that all these seeds weighed the same!

I’m going to go have a lay down now.

Gone to pot Pet maintenance ruling

Kevin Fraser Park

DOG owners beware, the initial reaction on discovering that your pet has ingested marihuana might be amusement, but it’s actually very serious as Purdey the labrador’s owners, Andrew and Helen found out.

Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not experience the same effects as humans. They do not get high from marihuana but instead the active ingredient, THC, triggers ataxia, which is a form of clumsiness and loss of movement control.

Andrew and Helen were walking Purdey through a park in Marbella on the Costa del Sol when she started sniffing around under a bench. They thought nothing of it to start with until they noticed the labrador seemed to have a little trouble walking.

They carried on and then decided to stop for a coffee. On getting up again from the table they realised that Purdey couldn’t stand and was completely uncoordinated. “My first thought was that she had suffered a stroke,” said Andrew.

Luckily they knew a vets nearby, where the dog was examined and immediately they realised she had ingested drugs of some sort. Their quick diagnosis meant Purdey received immediate treatment and a few hours later she was ready to go home. The vet confirmed from blood tests that she had ingested marihuana, most likely from eating the discarded stub of a spliff.

IN January 2022, two years following the enactment of the Law on the Legal Regime of Animals, which recognises pets as sentient beings rather than mere objects, the Court of First Instance number 15 in Vigo, Galicia decreed a unique monthly pension for a pet caught in the middle of a divorce. This decision placed the animal in the custody of the woman and required her exhusband to contribute €40 monthly towards the pet’s expenses, with any extraordinary and veterinary costs split between the two.

Under the new legal framework, pets are

awarded considerations similar to other family members, including children.

This approach mandates the continued assurance of their wellbeing and protection, even amidst family breakdowns.

Courts across Spain have since been adjudicating on matters of custody and visitation rights for pets, but the Vigo ruling pushes the envelope further by establishing a financial

support system for the pet, similar to child support arrangements.

The animal ‘will remain in the care’ of the woman ‘and the extraordinary and veterinary expenses will be paid in half.’

This ruling, issued over a year ago but only recently highlighted due to its appeal, integrates pets fully into the family unit’s post-divorce financial arrangements, reflecting their status as beings with rights and needs.

DO you have a cat like Milo? He only has to hear the kettle boil or the keys in the door and he is suddenly there at your feet, ready for a catch up on the day. He really misses his owner when she goes away on holiday. That’s why she finds house-sitters to keep him company and look after him when she goes away.

When you know the sitters are checked and come from House SitMatch you know we have your back. What is more, they won’t charge you a cent! Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services. You offer free accommodation and the pet-sitters house-sit for free! You review each other at the end.

If you’re travelling in 2024 join our network now to find sitters, sooner rather than later. Get organised today! All pets benefit from

staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Hou sesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

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 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, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond, and you choose the sitter of your choice.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5

Excellent

I have used HouseSitMatch for the last three years and would highly recommend it. Very easy to communicate with and very helpful by phone if needed.

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How do you join?

Please register online via our website www.Housesitmatch. com.

Photo of Purdey on holiday in Istan

Credit: gostua/Shutterstock.com

TV & SATELLITE

WINDOW TINTING

CLASSIFIEDS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

WASHING MACHINE

BROKEN? Call Bluesky Repairs for ALL your domestic appliance repairs. 626 430 671 (WhatsApp) (305215)

ARCHITECTS

BUGGY TOURS

BUY & SELL

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

I BUY RECORDS 50s to the 90s. Best prices for good records. Tel: 622 750 117 / 962 851 809 (304500)

CARE HOME

PRIVATE CARE HOME Full Board and Care. Also, Dementia care. British Owned near Alicante. Luxurious Villa. €1,200 per month. Call 747 438 225 (305146)

CHARITY

EL CAMPELLO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY – Life and Family Sunday Service at 11 a.m. Bilingual (English and Spanish) at San Bartolome, 35 (Bajo No. 6), El Campello. For more information visit www.elcampellochristiancommunity.org, email campellocc@gmail.com or call Juan Zúñiga – 686203183 (Spanish) or Jim Eaton680594134 (English).

THE SALVATION ARMY English Speaking Church of Denia Worship Service. Sunday 10.30am followed by a time of Fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Come as you are! For more information: Dieter Zimmerer +34 698 609 658 or Barbara Zimmerer +34 652 319 810 Email dieterzimmerer@hotmail. com, www.centrosaron.com www.helpbenidorm. org and on Facebook VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, particularly if you speak Spanish, and have a car (although this is not essential).

Tel President 607 387 040.

We are an English-speaking charity that assists residents and tourists of all nationalities in times of crisis. We meet every Thursday at 11am in Jose Llorca Social Centre C. Goya s/n. Benidorm. We loan out mobility and medical equipment including oxygen concentrators on a short-term basis. (288658)

THE AIRCREW ASSOCIA TION COSTA BLANCA This association, formed in 1988, exists to foster comradeship amongst those who, having been awarded an official flying badge, have qualified to operate military aircraft and are serving or have served, as military aircrew in the armed forces of the United Kingdom or those nations which are allies of the United Kingdom or the Commonwealth. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING THIS POPULAR ASSOCIATION, CALL the Secretary on 966 495 228.

THE ALFAZ SPIRI TUAL FRIENDS CENTRE OFFER A WARM WELCOME AT ‘THE COMM’ - (EX THE FORUM/ MARE NOSTRUM) CAMINO

DEL PINCHO 2, L’ALFAZ DEL PI, 03580 ALICANTE. VISITING MEDIUM EVERY WEEK - SERVICE STARTS 6.30PM EVERY THURSDAY. CONTACT DOT 634 320 013. EMAIL  dorothydorothy 608@gmail.com (295995)

ELECTRICIAN

MB ELECTRICS. Appro ved electrician. Any electrical repair. Iber drola paperwork. Affor dable prices. Miquel 655 282 175 www.mbelectrics. es (302561)

FRIENDSHIP

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

ALL METAL WORK AND MOBILE WELDING. +44 7787 585 714 (302963)

GOLD WANTED HEALTH & BEAUTY

WIGS

WWW.WIGS-R-US.ES Iindoor market, Rincon De Loix Benidorm. Monday to Friday 10 -4pm Sat 10 – 3pm scrunchies, ponytails, toppers, fascinators, headwear etc. Private appts after 3 pm 681 049 502 (304723)

INSURANCE

FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL?

CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TOO) OR VISIT www.sos insuranceinspain.com or email tracey@sosinsuran ceinspain.com (305189)

BENEFICIAL INSURANCE

SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@beneficialinsuranceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsurancein spain.com for online quote. (303245)

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes

in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com

MASSAGE

FRENCH, ELÉGANTE, SLIM SOPHIE, 3 languages spoken. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (302810)

PROFESSIONAL TANTRA MASSAGE in Denia. Ritual and deep relaxation. Teya: 692 450 679. (304390)

RELAX CENTRE in BENIDORM - Excellent atmosphere. Expert Masseuses. 24 / 7 OutcallsTel: 603 324 564 (305206)

NATURIST male gives relaxing massage. Half price 1st time offer €25. For men and women. Private premises in Jávea, WhatsApp Rob on 613 831 380 (305183)

RELAXING Massage for Men & Couples. Feel free from tension & stress Call Dany 603 202 758 (305528)

MISCELLANEOUS

GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

METALWORK

MOTORBIKES

PETER ZWAAN MOTOR

BIKES, A+ Occasions Showroom, Moto Guzzi California, 1100 cc, yr. 2007, 34.000 kms, E 6.400,= CostaBlancaMotorbikes. com (304978)

MOTORING

AUTO BASTIAN mobile mechanic. Tel 608 860 725. (290141)

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)

NURSING

AGM

OTHERS

VIAGRA / KAMAGRA / CIALIS. BEST PRICES. FREE DISCREET DELIVERY. ALL AREAS COVERED. TEL: PETER 644 139 274 (305142)

EDS?  We have the solution , Kamagra pills & jells, Ciali s, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

PAINTERS/DECORATORS

DECORATORS W.D.

GILMOUR. Painter & Decorator. Established 35 years in Moraira. ESTIMATES FREE. Call William on 609 691 776 or 966 490 602 (304180)

PETS

NEED YOUR PETS TAKEN

CARE OF? Not kennels, just a friendly home. Large fenced area. 699 790 080 Altea (1296233)

BEAUTIFUL & Healthy

BICHON FRISE puppy available from responsible breeder. Contact 653 757 768 (305310)

PROPERTY WANTED

RETIRED couple looking for long term rental in La Marina Baixa - prefer two beds. Needed urgently - call Janice on 0044 7736 251 800 (279523)

REMOVALS/STORAGE

BENIDORM and surrounding areas. Two-man removal. 622 658 992 (303512)

MAN & VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon Valley & surrounding area. Call/ Whatsapp 636 100 873 (305521)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS, awnings, motors, mosquito blinds. Calpe + 50 kms. 659 464 992 www.toldosalchemy. com (303757)

SITUATIONS VACANT

BLUE SQUARE REAL ESTATE is currently searching for Sales Executives to work in the Denia / Oliva area. A training package is provided and excellent incentives. Multilingual candidates, Spanish, French,

Dutch and German are sought after. Please email hr@ blue-square.com your CV (304549)

STRUCTURAL SURVEYS

MARK PADDON BSc Hons. MCIOB, CAAT – for buyer’s survey & defects advice. Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costablancasurveyors. com (294923)

WANTED

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INSURANCE

THE General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) is cracking down on distractions caused by passengers, with penalties reaching up to €500 and a potential loss of six points from the driver’s licence.

Article 18.1 of the General Traffic Regulations highlights the driver’s duty to maintain constant vigilance on the road.

This includes ensuring that passengers and any transported items do not interfere with the driver’s

Focus on passengers

field of vision or freedom of movement. Distractions, no matter how minor they may seem, can lead to significant penalties.

Seemingly harmless actions such as kissing the driver or perhaps engaging in a heated argument can lead to distractions, resulting in fines ranging from €100 to €500.

The severity of the penalty depends on the

IN a bold move to enhance road safety, the Spanish traffic authority announced that from July 2024, all vehicles registered in Spain must be equipped with an EDR (Event Data Recorder) device, also known as a black box.

This initiative aims to drastically reduce road accidents, with an ambitious target of achieving zero fatalities by 2050.

The EDR’s primary function is to collect detailed information about the vehicle and its occupants. It records data 30 seconds before an accident

situation. When a traffic officer deems these actions to constitute reckless driving, the maximum penalty will be imposed, and six points will be deducted from the driver’s licence.

The DGT emphasises the crucial need to keep attention focused on the road to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.

With distracted driving being a leading cause of

accidents, the DGT has identified common behaviours leading to fines of €200 and the loss of four licence points.

Notably, running out of fuel, driving without proper footwear, or poorly secured luggage can all attract fines.

Traffic authorities assure that the primary aim of these penalties is not to generate revenue, but rather the safety and wellbeing of the public.

Black box required

and five seconds after, capturing 15 critical variables including speed, airbag performance, and the intensity of impacts.

This device, however, will not record audio or visuals, focusing solely on technical data to understand accident dynamics better.

Public sentiment is increasingly frustrated with the Directorate-General for Traffic’s (DGT) tactics in concealing radars, perceived more as

revenue-generating tools than safety measures.

Despite these concerns, the DGT continues to experiment with various strategies to lower speeding, especially in high-risk zones.

Meanwhile, Waze, a popular navigation app, is introducing features to alert drivers to the presence of DGT speed cameras. This development reflects a broader trend of community-driven road safety initiatives.

Cupra Formentor - the future for SEAT

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

WITHIN large groups like Volkswagen Audi it is arguably more difficult to differentiate between models within the same corporate garage. SEAT found the answer though with the Cupra range, indeed the name SEAT will in due course no longer grace any motor vehicles as the brand completely merges into Cupra. Originally Cupra were the sports orientated models within the SEAT line-up, but the name then became a separate brand. The SEAT name will disappear completely in the near future.

While some Cupras are very obviously SEAT models the Spanish carmaker has increasingly produced individual models unique to the Cupra brand. The Formentor was the first such model and even though the largest engine in the range is only 2.0-litres it sounds fantastic on start-up.

Although this is ‘manufactured’ sound it does add to the appeal, and with 310PS of performance and four-wheel-drive it lives up to the soundtrack.

Prices start from €37,460/£32,030 and much of the kit in the top-ofthe-range versions finds its way into the lead-in models too. There’s a 12”

touchscreen, full matrix LED lighting, autodimming rear view mirror, cornering lights, wire less phone charging, adaptive cruise control, heated steering wheel and keyless entry and start.

The engine line-up starts with a 1.5 TSi, 150PS, through to the 2.0-litre 310PS mentioned earlier. There are manual and automatic transmission choices, all-wheel-drive and petrol/

As ever, es- pecially with VAG products, there is rather too much digitalisation, and a consequent lack of buttons, but familiarity

Facts at a Glance

Model: CUPRA Formentor 2.0 TSI VZ3 4Drive 310PS DSG

Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol

Gears: 7-speed automatic with all-wheel-drive

Performance: 0-100 kph (62 mph) Petrol 4.9 secs

Maximum Speed Petrol 249 kph (155 mph)

Economy: Petrol 8.6 l/100km (32.8 mpg) WLTP

Emissions: 193 g/km WLTP

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets.

over time would make life easier. That apart it’s a very nice place to be with, in my top line model, extremely comfortable seats, an impressive build quality and the general feel of this being an upmarket car.

At a €56,501/ £48,310 it may seem expensive, but look at some of the rivals and it begins to look competitive.

Despite the lack of a premium-badge it has the advantage of being something different to the usual premium crowd.

On the road the VZ3 4Drive handles extremely well for such a large machine, with sports suspension and all-wheel-drive that’s perhaps not surprising, and the ride is comfortably firm compared to similar less compliant sports models within the VAG stable.

This is an impressive machine and for my money still the pick of the Cupra range, being a very individual model rather than a bespoke, or tailored pick straight from the pages of the SEAT catalogue.