VELEZ-MALAGA has launched inclusive summer camps to tackle the social exclusion of children with special needs. These summer camps provide a safe and adapted environment for kids with Special Educational Needs (SEN), ensuring family work-life balance during the summer of 2024. Led by De puty Mayor Jesús Pérez Atencia and Social Affairs Councillor Juan García, this initiative is seen as a model for comprehensive educational diversity support.
sonal development in a safe, structured setting. The camps will be held at CEIP Axarquía in Velez-Malaga and CEIP Antonio Checa in Torre del Mar. These locations offer a familiar setting and specialised staff to ensure everyone’s care and safety.
Activities will include playgroups and outdoor activities from June 24 to 28 and September 2 to 6, 2024. Additionally, educational camps will run from July 1 to August 2, and August 5 to 30.
Aircraft crash
A SMALL aircraft crashed on June 24 while attempting to land at Velez-Malaga Aerodrome.
The main goal is to include children with SEN in regular recreational activities, ensuring their well-being and per-
Children, aged six to 18 and enrolled in a Special Education Classroom, can choose activities based on their interests.
The plane came down approximately eight kilometres from the airstrip, landing in an avocado plantation known as La Isla near the Velez River. The incident occurred around 8.20pm, prompting a witness to alert Emergency Services 112 Andalucia about the crash.
Responders from the Provincial Fire Consortium, Guardia Civil, Velez-Malaga Local Police, National Police, emergency medical services, and Civil Protection quickly mobilised to the scene. Fortunately, the sole occupant of the aircraft emerged unscathed and managed to exit the plane independently. However, as a precaution, the pilot was transported to a health centre for fur -
ther assessment.
The plane had departed from Granada Airport and was scheduled to land at Velez-Malaga Aerodrome. Before the crash, the pilot had communicated with nearby aircraft to verify the status of the landing gear deployment. It is believed that engine failure and landing gear issues contributed to the crash, though thankfully, there was no explosion or fire upon impact.
Inclusive fun for all.
Image: Shutterstock/ Africa Studio
Art Club
JOIN the Millers Art Club in Frigiliana, on Wednesday, July 10, from 11am to 2pm. For €35 per person, enjoy a painting session including materials, Sangria, nibbles, and great company. Contact via WhatsApp on 0034 664 587 093 to reserve your spot.
Volunteers
needed
TAIL TORROX charity shop seeks volunteers, especially on Saturday mornings. Contact Gillian Russell on 711 070 836 or via messenger to help support their vital community efforts.
Drag Bingo
THIS Friday, June 28, at 9.30pm, La Carpinteria Bar invites all to ‘Sugar Royal’, a lively Drag Bingo event. Entry is free, offering participants a chance to win cash prizes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Art Walk
THE annual Art Walk Competa returns for its 15th year from September 13-15. Artists interested in participating must submit applications by June 30, for consideration in this renowned cultural event.
Discover Trapiche
Catherine McGeer
SITUATED 30 kilometres from Malaga and a mere six kilometres from the coast, Trapiche is a charming village in the Axarquia region. Located on a at delta at an altitude of 50 metres, it boasts a population of about 300 residents. This serene village lies within the lush, tropical valley of Velez-Malaga, which enjoys a unique microclimate that allows for the abundant growth of tropical fruits such as avocados, kiwis, mangoes, and citrus fruits.
Trapiche o ers a delightful blend of rural charm and modern amenities. The village is home to six restaurants, one highly renowned for its exceptional cuisine, and several bars where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Trapiche Market
THE Trapiche Market, a farmers market held every Tuesday from 9.30am to 1.30pm at Jardines del Trapiche on Carretera de Benamargosa, Km 0.5, 29719 Trapiche (Malaga), has blossomed into a bustling venue with over 80 stalls.
A notable feature of Trapiche is the Leoni Benabu air eld, which serves as the base for the Royal Malaga Aeroclub. This air eld is not only a hub for aviation enthusiasts but also hosts a prestigious school for pilots, attracting students from various regions.
The village’s historical roots run deep, with its name deriving from the Spanish word for sugar mill, a nod to its past signi cance in sugar cane production. Today, while the remnants of these historic mills o er a glimpse into its
TRAPICHE is an ideal retreat for those seeking both meditation and outdoor adventure. Escape to tranquillity where the pace slows in the middle of serene landscapes perfect for rejuvenation. Located among the olive groves and vineyards, lies the Buddhist Stupa Karma Guen - a renowned international meditation centre of the Karma Kagyu lineage. Founded by Lama Ole Nydahl, it offers an idyllic retreat for meditation, dharma study, and spiritual renewal.
history.
industrious history, Trapiche remains a peaceful town. Its proximity to Malaga ensures convenient access, while relaxing environment and rich cultural heritage make it a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Andalucian experience.
Rural retreat
The surrounding area also boasts several scenic trails. The Ruta del Rio Seco is a favourite, winding through lush landscapes and offering glimpses of local flora and fauna. The Cerro de Bentomiz Trail provides panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline and the Sierra Tejeda mountains. Additionally, the Ruta de los Olivos Milena-
San Isidro
THE charming Ermita de San Isidro in Trapiche, Velez-Malaga, known formally as the Parish Church of San Isidro, was built between 1857 and 1860. This small, whitewashed church features a single rectangular nave topped by a vaulted ceiling. Its facade is decorated with a prominent entrance arch and a niche holding an image of its namesake saint, San Isidro Labrador.
Inside, visitors can discover a hidden artis-
rios leads hikers through ancient olive groves, showcasing the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether immersing oneself in meditation at Karma Guen or exploring the natural beauty of Trapiche’s hiking trails, this area invites visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature in a peaceful setting.
tic treasure - a Via Crucis painted in 1945 by Francisco Hernández, a self-taught artist born in Melilla in 1932. Surrounded by the serene countryside of olive groves and vineyards, this historic church not only serves as a place of worship but also stands as a testament to the cultural and religious heritage of rural Andalucia.
Throughout the year, the Ermita hosts festivals and processions where locals gather to celebrate their agricultural roots and offer prayers for a fruitful harvest, making it a beloved focal point in the community.
This lively market features a wide array of home-made food products, artisanal crafts, and small independent services, o ering a unique shopping experience. Visitors can nd everything from tech and jewellery repair services to health services like massages and therapies.
Additionally, the market provides valuable services for the expat community, including life insurance and will-making advice. The market’s multicultural and multinational traders create a rich and diverse atmosphere. Adding to the vibrant experience, live music performances by bands or choirs often entertain the crowds.
The Trapiche Market is a perfect destination for those seeking high-quality, locally sourced products and personalised services, making every Tuesday morning a special occasion.
Tropical charm, vibrant
Day trip
THE Axarquia Social Club, renowned for its engaging events and social outings, has just announced an exciting new event: a day trip to Gibraltar. This trip promises a delightful mix of leisure and adventure, perfect for those seeking to make new friends and build a community while exploring Spain.
Scheduled for Thursday, July 11, the Gibraltar day trip offers participants the freedom to enjoy various activities. Visitors can take advantage of duty-free shopping, purchase UK products at Morrisons or Tescos, stroll along the UK high street, or take in the sights on the iconic Rock of Gibraltar. The day will begin with several con -
venient pickup points, starting at Capistrano Carrefour in Nerja at 8.30am. The coach will depart Gibraltar at 6pm, ensuring a full day of exploration and enjoyment.
Tickets are priced at €25 for members and €30 for non-members, which includes transport and a tip for the coach driver. Early booking is essential to secure a spot with only one coach available. All tickets must be purchased in advance.
To reserve your place, contact PJ or visit the Axarquia Social Club’s website axarquiasocialclub.com . Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity for a fun-filled day in Gibraltar!
THE Secondary School el Chaparil in Nerja has successfully raised €273 for the Costa Animal Society (CAS) by selling handmade bracelets at the local market. This generous effort supports CAS, a non-profit organisation committed to rescuing and caring for abandoned animals in the Nerja, Frigiliana, and Maro areas.
CAS depends on donations and community involvement to continue its vital work of finding loving homes for these animals. Those interested in more information about the work that CAS does or in contributing can reach out via email at costaanimalsociety@gmail.com.
Beach Yoga School fundraiser
Additionally, donations can be made through their PayPal link accessible from their Facebook page or via their website ( costa-ani mal-society.square.site ). This initiative highlights the power of community spirit in supporting local charities.
YOGA and Pilates classes will resume on July 1 on the beaches of Torre del Mar, Caleta, and Benajarafe. Both activities enhance joint mobility, strength, flexibility, and muscle tone, contribu -
ting to long-term health benefits and improved quality of life.
David Vilches, Velez-Malaga’s councillor for Beaches, and Rocío Ruiz, deputy mayor of Benajarafe and Chilches,
announced the start of these classes. Vilches mentioned that the classes will run from July 1 to September 15, adding value to the beach activities.
Pilates classes in Torre del Mar will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 to 10am, while yoga will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at the same time. In La Caleta de Vélez, Pilates will be on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 to 9pm, and yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the same time.
Ruiz added that due to local demand, classes in Benajarafe will take place at Palmeral Beach near Chiringuito Pedro, Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 9.30am. Participants are encouraged to bring
Make friends and discover Gibraltar.
Local school supports community cause.
BEACH BLISS: Yoga and Pilates.
Image: Shutterstock/ Maciek Grabowicz
Fundraising Heroes
RECENTLY, we had the chance to catch up with the wonderful volunteers behind the Todo Ayuda Project, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to aiding local animal rescues in the Axarquia region and beyond.
Founded in early 2023 by Maurice Jonker, Paul Tilly, Sue, and Paul Bailey, and supported by a committed team of volunteers, the Todo Ayuda Project (TAP) has quickly established itself as a vital lifeline for smaller animal charities facing financial hurdles.
“We are not a rescue but a fundraising organisation that local animal rescues can apply to for financial assistance,” explained Sue Bailey one of the founding volunteers. “Every animal rescue is short of funds, and this often limits what they are able to do, especially during emergencies.”
Operating independently of larger animal charities, the Todo Ayuda Project focuses on organising fundraising events throughout the year. From raffles to black-tie dinners, their efforts not only generate crucial funds but also promote community engagement and support. “Our goal is to support rescues so they can focus on what they do best - rescuing, treating, fostering, and rehoming animals,” remarked Sue.
Based in Competa and surrounding villages, the Todo Ayuda Project primarily supports dog and cat rescues, alongside a
local animal sanctuary that cares for a variety of creatures, from goats to donkeys and even a peacock!
Over the past year, they have extended financial aid to organisations like Give A Dog A Home, ER Puppy HQ, Sarja Microsanctuary, The Underdog, and Save a Life Rescue.
“Deciding which projects to support is always challenging due to the overwhelming need, but we prioritise smaller, local rescues in crisis situations.”
Reflecting on their accomplishments, the Todo Ayuda Project has raised over €11,000 in the past year alone, that have directly benefited numerous animals in need. Their upcoming events include a car boot sale on Sunday, July 14 from 8am until 2pm at the Panty Factory car park in Competa.
They also have a Murder Mystery Party in August, and a Rounders Tournament in September, which promise to further bolster their efforts.
For those interested in supporting the Todo Ayuda Project or learning more about their upcoming events, additional information can be found by contacting Sue Bailey on 0034 711 017 770
Every contribution helps them continue their vital mission of providing a lifeline to animals in crisis throughout the Axarquia region.
To see more photos visit our website euroweeklynews.com.
Patriotic parade
THE historic streets of Nerja will once again come alive with scenes from the American War of Independence during the second annual Historical Parade on July 5, commemorating the US Independence Day and honouring Bernardo de Gálvez. De Gálvez, a notable resident of Macharaviaya, played a crucial role in the American fight for independence.
The parade was introduced at the Balcón de Europa, with Nerja’s mayor, José Alberto Armijo, and Macharaviaya’s mayor, Antonio Campos, presenting the event alongside other local officials and participants dressed in historical costumes. Armijo expressed gratitude to Macharaviaya for choosing Nerja to unveil the event and emphasised
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the importance of cultural and tourist ties between the towns.
Antonio Campos announced that this year’s July 4 celebration in Macharaviaya will be the most spectacular yet, noting that the town has been hosting this event since 2009 to depict key battles involving Bernardo de Gálvez, a celebrated hero in the United States.
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Empowering communities, one paw at a time.
Grace Meredith
Torrox Road Cultural revival
MAYOR Jesús Lupiáñez of Velez-Malaga has confirmed that construction on the first phase of the Torrox Road expansion is progressing well. Joined by local councillors along with local technicians, Mayor Lupiáñez assessed the ongoing works. The current phase covers an 800-metre stretch and is expected to be completed by October.
“We are pleased with
the steady progress of this important infrastructure project, which aims to connect Velez-Malaga and facilitate city expansion,” Mayor Lupiáñez stated. “These works will link Velez-Malaga with Caleta de Velez, easing traffic along Juan Carlos I Avenue. Although the current construction may cause some inconvenience, it is crucial for future
urban development.”
The ongoing work focuses on sector SUP.VM13 of the Torrox Road, involving a 786-metre stretch with two lanes. Future phases will extend this to 1,300 metres with four lanes (two lanes in each direction), including a median, side parking, and a three-metre pavement. When completed, the road will be 26 metres wide.
IN its rst year, Velez-Malaga’s new Department of Culture has focused on revitalising the CAC, restoring Cervantes’ legacy, and celebrating María Zambrano’s 120th anniversary. Culture councillor Alicia Ramírez highlighted achievements, including transforming the Francisco Hernández Contemporary Art Centre’s programming. Previously stagnant, it now hosts high-level exhibitions, and plenty of activities, and showcases local artists.
Ramírez emphasised broader cultural initiatives: a vibrant Book Fair, Velez-Malaga’s inclusion in the Cervantes Cities Network, and activities at the Cervantes Hall after an eight-year hiatus. The Joaquín Lobato Literary Contest was similarly revitalised, expanding its reach and prize value nationally and internationally.
Additionally, Ramírez noted advances in music, such as the Music Route and educational concerts, and the transformation of ‘Noche en Vela’ (Candlelit Night) into a distinguished cultural event. Other new programmes include the Nativity Scene Route, Art Market, Coral Music Week, and revamped Theatre programming.
Looking forward, Ramírez highlighted upcoming online ticket sales and plans for library and monument programmes.
Velez-Malaga: Where culture comes alive.
Cultural stand
RESIDENTS of El Morche are rallying together to protect a beloved dance oor facing removal by Costas, the coastal management authority.
Led by the El Morche Neighbourhood Association, the e ort includes a petition on change.org to garner support.
“For years, Costas has been pushing for the elimination of our iconic dance oor, a move they now plan to nalise
THE University of Malaga (UMA) observed a moment of silence to honour the passing of student Berkehan Gündongan, who tragically died in a cli accident in Nerja. Berkehan, aged 27, was pursuing a Master’s degree in Erasmus Mundus in Translation and Interpretation Technologies. The solemn tribute took place at the university’s rectorate building.
imminently despite objections from our community,” lamented the neighbourhood association on social media.
The residents argue that the dance oor is a symbol of their identity and history, contrasting it with other coastal developments deemed more disruptive. They stress the oor’s importance as a gathering place for locals during summer evenings and as
Tragic loss
Faculty, sta , and students gathered at the entrance to pay their respects, joining in solidarity with Berkehan’s family, friends, and peers. His undergraduate studies were completed at Çankaya University in Turkey. As a gesture of mourning and
a centrepiece of their annual festivities.
With 150 signatures already collected, at the time of writing, in just one day the campaign re ects widespread local sentiment against the removal. The community remains hopeful that their collective e orts will persuade Costas to reconsider their decision and preserve this cherished piece of El Morche’s heritage.
support, UMA’s rector, Teodomiro López, declared an o cial three-day mourning period. During this time, the university’s ags were own at halfmast. The commemoration was a poignant moment for the university community, re ecting on Berkehan’s life and academic journey, marked by a quiet show of remembrance and unity in grief.
Image: Velez-Malaga Town Hall
Image: Velez-Malaga Town Hall
Torrox Road advancing smoothly.
Counterfeit goods Immigration deadline missed
AIMEE GROSSMAN, a British resident, is heartbroken after her Spanish husband, Gines Rodriguez, was deported back to Spain. The couple, married for 15 years, have been left reeling after a mix-up with immigration procedures tore their family apart.
Rodriguez’s ordeal began upon returning to the UK from visiting his elderly mother in Spain.
Airport for lacking the
He was detained at Leeds Bradford Airport for lacking the proper documentation to reside in the UK. It came to light that Rodriguez had missed the deadline to apply under the European Union Settlement Scheme, a programme established after Brexit.
The couple claims Rodriguez had been living with Aimee and their daughter on and off for several years, establishing their life in the UK.
However, their at-
tempt to rectify the situation by applying after the deadline was denied due to insufficient evidence explaining the delay.
The hefty legal fees associated with appealing the decision
based on human rights grounds were insurmountable for the family. With no other option, Rodriguez was deported to Malaga, leaving his wife and daughter behind in the UK.
Talyta Franca, Class 2026, Northwestern University in Qatar
THE Guardia Civil has seized 58,000 counterfeit items valued at €22 million in the Canary Islands.
This significant operation targeted crimes against industrial property across 80 businesses in the Canary Islands, specifically in Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro.
The operation, initiated in January, involved extensive surveillance of various commercial establishments across these islands.
Guardia Civil officers identified an extensive sale of counterfeit products and launched a coordinated inspection to prevent merchants from being alerted about the imminent raids.
In the initial operation, officers discovered 24,500 counterfeit items, inspected businesses, and identified 39 individuals. In a subsequent operation targeting high-end brands, officers seized over 33,500 counterfeit items valued at nearly €16 million in today’s market.
They also investigated 45 individuals and inspected a total of 39 premises, predominantly bazaars, along with four cargo vans used for selling counterfeit goods including clothing, bags, wallets, belts, footwear, sunglasses, perfumes, toys, and other children’s items.
A judicial expert in trademarks assisted during the inspections, confirming the authenticity or otherwise of the counterfeit products.
This operation marks the second major crackdown on industrial property violations by the Guardia Civil in less than a year, reflecting their ongoing commitment to combating this illegal market.
Leeds Bradford Airport was the scene of a family crisis.
Trelawney Bresic BARCELONA is making a dramatic shift in its housing market.
By November 2028, the city plans to ban short-term tourist rentals in a bid to tackle soaring housing costs and make apartments more accessible to residents.
This move targets over 10,000 existing short-term rental licences, aiming to curb the trend blamed for a decade
Barcelona to ban short-term rentals
of rising rents and property prices. The city hopes this will free up housing options for locals who have struggled to find affordable housing.
While hotels are expected to benefit from the reduced competition, opponents of the ban, like Apartur, a tourist apartment association, fear negative
Quirky Belgian Laws
BELGIUM, a country known for its rich his tory and cultural di versity, also boasts some of the most unusual laws you might ever come across.
From bizarre bans to peculiar permissions, these laws paint a fascinating picture of Belgian legal idiosyncrasies.
Firstly, hosting a home poker game could land you in trouble as gambling is illegal in such settings. Meanwhile, night-time police raids are prohibited, ensuring peace after dark. In a surprising twist, a specific rule permits driving straight into oncoming traffic under certain conditions, adding to the quirky road laws.
The Belgian flag itself is deemed unconstitutional by law, a rare oddity in national symbols. Also, no
Dutch royals are allowed on the Belgian throne, maintaining a clear separation between neighbouring monarchies. Surprisingly, personal possession of cannabis is allowed, reflecting a more lenient stance on recreational drug use. Historical ties linger as the Belgian King retains the power to mobilise troops in the independent Congo, harking back to colonial times. The GAS
laws impose strict bans on certain civil and social behaviours, while dogs and oxen are legally permitted to propel army vehicles, highlighting an oldworld charm.
Farm laws allow residents to keep their last cow, pig, goats, sheep, and chickens, ensuring sustenance. Interestingly, only the elderly, disabled, women, and children can gather leftover crops, reflecting archaic social structures. Wives possess the unique authority to sell their husbands’ commercial goods.
Some of these laws result from mistranslations, while others have been recently abolished. Nevertheless, they offer a quirky glimpse into Belgium’s legal landscape, blending the bizarre with the historical.
consequences. They express concerns about potential job losses, increased poverty, and a surge in illegal rentals.
This decision reflects a growing tension in popular tourist destinations. Barcelona has already been tightening regulations on new tourist apartments and tackling illegal ones. The city is at-
What foreigners like
Talyta Franca, Class 2026, Northwestern University in Qatar
WITH its passionate flamenco, delicious tapas, and storied past, Spain’s culture attracts and holds on to its foreign residents.
As a result, many expats find themselves deeply connected to the unique experiences and quality of life that Spain provides.
The usual sunny climate, with an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, seems to be the key factor for many expatriates and immigrants deciding to move to the country.
On the Euro Weekly News Facebook page, responses like ‘Sunshine all summer’ and ‘The weather’ were extremely popular when people were asked what they would bring from Spanish culture if they had to move back to their country of origin.
Complementing the love for summer weather is Spain’s daily rhythm, characterised by the famous siesta. Today, this tradition is embraced by many. As one reader noted, “For my part, siesta is a necessity... sunshine too.” Another added, “The relaxed culture with a glass of wine after work.”
The country’s cultural emphasis on community and healthcare also stands out. “Their flexibility and solidarity” was mentioned by some readers, reflecting the community and supportive nature of Spanish society.
Interestingly, a significant number of readers expressed a strong commitment to Spain, indicating they had no plans to return to their countries of origin. Statements like “Not going back to the UK for any reason, my life, my home is in Spain,” and “Not planning on returning to the UK! Loving living in Spain!”
The Belgian flag.
shutterstock_1918886633
Barcelona is taking drastic action to facilitate more affordable housing for residents.
SPANISH CULTURE: Walking in the sun.
€3 homes
IN 2019, the village of Sambuca di Sicilia in southern Italy gained international attention by selling homes for as little as €1.
These kinds of schemes have become a popular method for revitalising rural towns with declining populations, aiming to attract new residents and prevent empty homes from falling into disrepair.
While similar initiatives failed in other areas, Sambuca’s e orts were met with an overwhelming response.
Buyers from the United States, the Middle East, and beyond ocked to purchase these homes, injecting approximately €20 million into the local economy.
Now, Sambuca is o ering more houses for sale.
However, potential buyers should note
TWO Beluga whales were rescued from the war-torn city of Kharkiv, Ukraine and safely transported to an aquarium in Valencia.
An international coalition of marine mammal experts from Oceanogràfic de Valencia, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, and SeaWorld coordinated the operation, according to CNN.
The Belugas, a 15-year-old male na-
that there are some conditions and the starting price has increased.
This round, 10 homes are available with a starting bid of €3.
Located in the town’s historic Saracen district, these structures are reported to be as sound as those previously sold.
Abandoned after a 1969 earthquake, these houses belong to the local authorities, streamlining the sales process compared to areas where councils must mediate between private owners and buyers.
The available properties are two to three-bedroom houses, no larger than 80 square metres, constructed from honey-coloured stone.
Featuring two or three oors, some of the buildings also have terraces.
Vintage vault
IN a recent archaeological find near Sevilla, researchers have uncovered what appears to be the oldest preserved wine in liquid form, dating back approximately 2,000 years.
The discovery took place in 2019 at a Roman necropolis in Carmona, associated with the ancient town of Carmo in Hispania Baetica.
The necropolis, remarkably intact, revealed a family mausoleum where urns containing cremated remains were placed in niches along the chamber walls.
One urn in niche 8 stood out: made of lead and sealed with a glass jar (‘olla ossuaria’), it contained cremated bones, a gold ring depicting the god Janus, and an astonishing five litres of well-preserved reddish liquid.
Published in the Journal of Archaeological
Science: Reports, researchers noted that the liquid, identified as wine through plasma mass spectrometry analysis, remained preserved within the urn.
This finding contrasts sharply with nearby niches under similar environmental conditions, which were dry.
The presence of liquid wine in the urn suggests its ceremonial use in Roman burial rituals,
Rescued Beluga whales
med Plombir and a 14-year-old female named Miranda, reached Valencia on Tuesday evening, June 18, in fragile health after an exhausting journey, as reported by Georgia Aquarium.
Kharkiv, positioned near Ukraine’s border with Russia, has endured es-
calating Russian attacks. The Georgia Aquarium said in a press release that the city has been facing strong threat from artillery fire, “with bombs dropping within a few hundred metres of the aquarium.”
The rescue effort began on Monday
aiding the deceased in their journey.
This discovery surpasses previous finds of ancient wine, such as in Speyer, Germany, where it was contained in a glass jar from the fourth century AD. Unlike those findings, the Carmona discovery marks the first instance where ancient wine has been chemically identified in its liquid state rather than through absorbed residues.
June 17, involving a 12-hour drive from Kharkiv to Odesa, followed by an expedited border crossing into Moldova, facilitated by European Union officials. From Chisinau, the Moldovan capital, the whales then flew with the team to Valencia.
The Belugas are now receiving specialised care for their trauma from a dedicated team in Spain.
ANCIENT URN: Contained well-preserved liquid.
Image: Universidad de Cordoba
SAMBUCA DI SICILIA: The village is putting more houses up for sale.
Image: Comune
di Sambuca
di Sicilia
Fizzy to flat
GERMANY is considering implementing a sugar tax on soft drinks, inspired by the UK’s successful initiative.
This proposal, originally put forth by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, has gained support from nine states: Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Lower Saxony, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saxony, Thuringia, Saarland, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
However, it has also sparked con ict between di erent levels of government.
The UK experience, where a sugar tax was linked to preventing thousands of childhood obesity cases within ve years according to studies from the University of Cambridge, serves as a model for Germany.
Public health con-
Sugar tax to be introduced on soft drinks.
cerns like obesity and diabetes are driving the proposal.
Previous voluntary agreements with beverage manufacturers to reduce sugar content have had limited success, leading to this shift toward a direct tax approach.
Economic studies, such as those from the Technical University of Munich, suggest signi cant bene ts from
a sugary drinks tax in Germany, estimating potential savings of up to €16 billion over 20 years. Advocates, including Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, argue that any additional revenue generated should be reinvested in promoting healthier diets, potentially through subsidies like reduced VAT on fresh fruits and vegetables.
Beach bummers
RECENT research by easyJet Holidays reveals that many Brits are increasingly irritated by various behaviours while on beach holidays.
A survey of 2,000 adults highlighted that despite 68 per cent planning to take a beach holiday this year, encounters with poor beach etiquette often spoil their relaxation.
Key annoyances include noisy portable speakers, overhead drones, seagull feeding, and social media enthusiasts staging elaborate photoshoots.
Over half of respondents
find drones intrusive, and 45 per cent blame social media for disrupting the serene beach environment.
Sunlounger reservation tactics also frustrate many, with nearly half of the respondents feeling that unoccupied loungers with towels can be claimed after just one hour.
The survey identified the top 20 beach annoyances, ranging from noisy children and littering to unruly dogs and disruptive stag or hen parties.
Despite these annoyances, many (45 per cent)
avoid confronting offenders directly, while 50 per cent would be willing to pay more for a beach holiday free from such disturbances.
Michael Whitehall, easyJet Holiday’s Beach Ranger said: “Nothing spoils a holiday faster than bad beach etiquette.
“Whether it’s shaking sand from towels everywhere or treating the beach like their own private nightclub, we’ve seen these issues all over the world.
“It’s time to put a stop to them.”
Image: Andrii Spy_k / Shutterstock.com
Beach etiquette.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Election holdup
THE Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which was scheduled to publish the findings of its review into the “debanking” of politicallyexposed persons (PEPs) by the end of June, will not do so until July. “We do not think it is appropriate to publish the review during the pre-election period,” the City watchdog said.
Think again
THE International Monetary Fund (FMI) warned Spain that the windfall tax on banks, and energy companies introduced during the cost-of-living crisis, should be “limited and temporary” or, if permanent “designed to minimise possible distortions.” The tax could also “discourage investment”, which was already weak, the FMI said.
New owner
STOCKBROKER
Hargreaves
Lansdown announced that it was ready to “unanimously recommend” its £5.4 billion (€6.4 billion) takeover bid by a consortium headed by the CVC private equity group. The London company has now extended the deadline for the consortium to make a firm offer by July 19.
Going public
FAMILY-OWNED, Barcelonabased bakery company Europastry plans to go public by listing on the Spanish stock exchange and putting 25 per cent of its shares on the market. The IPO offer will include new shares valued at around €225 million as well as existing shares, with the Galles family retaining control of the company.
Asda dip
ASDA was the only major supermarket in the UK to experience a decline during the 12 weeks ending on June 9, with a 4 per cent drop-off in sales. The market share of the chain owned by Mohsin Issa fell from 13.7 per during the same period in 2023 to 12.8 per cent this year.
billion
market value for Banco Santander allows the Spain-based bank to overtake BNP Paribas (€66.88 billion) as the EU’s largest bank by capitalisation.
Back on top
THE London Stock Exchange (LSE) has regained its traditional ranking as the largest and most valuable in Europe.
In 2016, for instance, the LSE was worth $1.4 trillion (€1.3 trillion) more than Euronext Paris but was overtaken in 2022. That was partly due to the chaos caused by short-lived PM Liz Truss’s mini-Budget, allied to a weak pound, the spectre of recession and Brexit.
Now the LSE is back on top with listed companies worth $3.18 trillion (approximately €2.95 trillion) compared with the French market’s $3.13 tri-
llion (€2.9 trillion).
According to valuations based on Bloomberg data, London and Paris are still neck-andneck, but City experts called the latest figures “a milestone.”
They pointed out that
CHINA responded to EU tariffs on its electric vehicles (EVs) with an investigation into pork imports.
The country’s Commerce ministry announced on June 17 that it was launching an anti-dumping enquiry into imports of European pork and pork byproducts following complaints from its own producers.
Spain, which exports an annual €1.4 billion of pork to China, stands to lose most in a future crackdown, followed by the Netherlands which exports €560 million each year, Denmark (€513 million) and France (€260 million).
The probe will take 12 months to
Telecoms deal
VODAFONE GROUP raised €1.7 billion after selling 18 per cent of its stake in Indian telecoms infrastructure company, Indus Towers.
The Newbury-headquartered company had initially intended to sell 10 per cent of its 21.5 per cent Indus Towers holding but finally sold 484.7 million shares owing to robust demand from investors.
Funds raised would go towards “significant” repayments against an outstanding €1.8 billion in loans secured against Vodafone’s Indian assets.
the French market was tumbling owing to the uncertainty surrounding the snap generation election that a rattled President Emmanuel Macron called in the wake of the June 9 European elections.
As a result, the market
Pig of a
Follow-up thumbs-up
capitalisation of French companies fell by $258 billion (€340 billion), allowing London to regain pole position. Shares in Societe Generale and BNP Paribas have fallen by around 7 per cent, while France’s CAC 40 share index experienced its sharpest weekly fall since 2022.
Despite a number of companies that have chosen to list in the US, and others rumoured to be on the point of doing so, the “demise” of London’s stock market had been “massively overstated”, according to UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt.
problem
complete although this could be extended by a further six months if necessary, the ministry said, accusing Europe’s pork industry of creating over-capacity and benefiting from large subsidies.
The allegation mirrors the EU’s recent decision to impose additional tariffs of up to 38 per cent on China’s EVs. This “unfair” state support makes European EVs a less economically attractive option, Brussels maintains.
Another Ortega
MONEYVAL, set up in 1997 by the Council of Europe, ensures that member states are using effective systems to counter money laundering and terrorist financing,
Moneyval’s follow-up report on Gibraltar has placed it in the top 11 of the global network’s most compliant jurisdictions, with all 40 of the European Union’s recommendations rated as either Fully or Largely Compliant.
“Moneyval’s report, and our position with respect to the ratings achieved, are more evidence as to Gibraltar’s compliance in these areas when measured against the most stringent international standards,” Justice, Trade and Industry minister Nigel Feetham said.
“I am grateful for the continued work from all our stakeholders in this regard.”
TAYLOR SWIFT’S Eras Tour will boost the UK economy by around £1 billion (€1.18 billion) Barclays bank said. Its Swiftonomics report estimated that 1.2 million fans would each spend around £848 (€1,003.61) on tickets, travel, accommodation and merchandise to see Swift’s 15 UK performances this summer. This multiplied by 12 the amount usually spent on a night out, Barclays said.
“Swift’s supporters have such a strong connection to her that the desire to spend becomes even more powerful,” Peter Brooks, a Barclays’ behavioural scientist, said.
IAG, owner of British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus amongst other airlines, wants full control of Air Europa.
It now has offered Spanish tourism company Globalia €400 million for the 80 per cent that IAG does not already own and is willing to divest 52 per cent of Air Europa’s routes instead of the 40 per cent originally offered.
Brussels, which fears that the IAG takeover would create a monopoly, especially on routes to Latin America, said it would announce its decision on August 20.
SANDRA ORTEGA, Spain’s richest woman and elder daughter of Zara founder Amancio Ortega, must pay her former wealth manager Jose Leyte €1.6 million.
Galicia’s Upper Court of Justice reversed an earlier decision after Ortega sacked Leyte in November 2020, alleging “loss of confidence.” Leyte, who claimed a severance package of €1.6 million, was an executive and not a salaried employee, the court ruled, and the dismissal was in line with his contract.
Leyte’s November 2022 appeal was accepted, the earlier ruling was cancelled and a new hearing scheduled for May 2024, although its finding have only just been made public.
THE makers of the late Queen’s favourite marmalade has reported its first-ever loss owing to rising energy and raw materials costs. Wilkin & Sons, the owners of Tiptree Marmalade, blamed “practically all” of the company’s money problems on rocketing energy costs. These have increased the price of everything from ingredients and glass jars to packaging, company chairman Walter Scott said.
The company posted losses of £1.8 million (€2.13 million) compared with a £1.1 million (€1.3 million) in 2022, Scott revealed.
EURONEXT PARIS: French stock exchange overtaken by London
Photo credit: CC/Thomon
Photo credit : Pixabay/Mutinka RETALIATION: China investigating EU pork dumping claims.
4.459,0 4.391,0 718,72K
138,05 138,08 135,80 9,45M
3.180,00 3.086,00 1,21M
Lucky clover
ACCORDING to superstition, a five-leaf clover is considered luckier than a four-leaf clover.
By that standard, Yoshiharu Watanabe, who cultivated a record-breaking 63-leaf clover, might be the luckiest person alive.
Yoshiharu, a 45-yearold resident of Nasus hiobara, Japan, has been cross-pollinating clovers (Trifolium repens L.) in his garden since 2012. “Since the number of lea ves has increased year by year, I have been aiming for the Guinness World Records title ever since,” he stated.
The previous record was set in 2009 by Shigeo Obara from Hanamaki City, Japan, with a 56-leaf clover.
Yoshiharu maintains several clover patches in his garden and explained, “Clover is a common plant found everywhere, so whenever I saw a four-leaved, five-leaved, or se-
Yoshiharu began considering breaking the world record.
“I had to triple the number of leaves to try and beat it,” he recalled. “It didn’t seem that easy, yet the leaves kept growing in numbers; I thought I might eventually be able to break it.”
ven-leaved clover near paddy fields or parks, I took it back home.
The plant is pretty strong and you don’t have to do anything to it, so I just left them, then they just prospered.”
After discovering a 20leaf clover in his garden,
Yoshiharu is thrilled to have earned the world record, expressing his joy: “People say that a four-leaved clover brings you happiness, so it would be great if this 63-leaved clover would bring surprise and pleasure to people.”
Ambassador Reception
MR HUGH ELLIOTT, the British Ambassador for the past five years, and his wife are preparing to depart for London to assume a new role in the Foreign Office. During his tenure, Mr Elliott has significantly contributed to diplomatic relations between the two countries.
A reception was held at the Ambassador’s residence in Madrid to mark the occasion and, in particular, to thank the British Community Organisations for their collaboration and support over the last five years. The gathering in the sunlit gardens, created a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a glass of something cool and refreshing, together with some delicious canapes.
It was a truly intimate affair, with around 50 invited guests, including representatives from politics, the British Consulates, and
the many charities that support the English-speaking community in Spain. Charities that included Samaritans in Spain, who were privileged to share a conversation with the Ambassador in which he divulged that he had gifted King Felipe with some jars of marmalade that he had made to mark the 10th anniversary of his reign. A gift he said “that symbolised the British-Spanish relationship that he had enjoyed over the years.”
During his heartfelt speech, the Ambassador expressed his deep appreciation for all those present, sharing he had gained a profound understanding of the diverse range of organisations established to support UK residents over the past five years. He also took a moment to commend the Consulates for their exceptional work, especially during the challenges of Brexit.
Image: Guinness Book of World Records
Breaking the record.
The British Ambassador, his wife and representatives of the Consulates.
Axarquia Supplement: An ideal introduction to living in this special area
IF you’re considering purchasing property in sunny Spain, whether for relocation or a change of scenery, you’ve come to the right place.
Explore a collection of articles that aim to simplify the process of buying real estate in Spain.
From the busy city streets to the tranquil shores of the coast, the Axaquria area offers a diverse range of landscapes and lifestyles to cater to every preference.
Whether you envision a charming villa situated in the hills or a modern apartment with a view of the Mediterranean, these articles are tailored to provide essential insights and practical guidance.
We cover important topics such as navigating legal requirements, understanding local real estate trends, and discovering hidden treasures that could soon be your new home.
Each article is crafted to empower you, the
prospective buyer, with the knowledge needed to make well-informed decisions and confidently embark on your journey to owning property in Spain.
Inside you will find a collection of useful articles and advice from local companies which will help you find your dream property and discover a range of services you may need.
Let us guide you toward finding the perfect property that suits your lifestyle and aspirations.
TORROX COSTA, a prime location on the Costa del Sol, is the perfect place to live or invest in property. At the heart of this paradise is Guido Bauer S.L. a real estate agency known for its commitment, professionalism, and passion for finding the perfect home for each client. Established in 1999, our agency has been a market leader in Torrox Costa for years.
Who We Are
At Guido Bauer, our mission is to provide a personalised, high-quality service tailored to each client’s needs. Our team of highly qualified professionals, well-versed in the local market, are always ready to offer expert advice and innovative solutions.
What We Offer
We have a wide range of properties to suit all tastes and budgets,
including:
25th Anniversary: Discover your Perfect Home with Guido Bauer in Torrox Costa
Beachfront Apartments: Ideal for enjoying the sun and sea all year round.
Exclusive Villas: Featuring spacious gardens, private pools, and high-quality finishes.
Townhouses and Chalets: Perfect for families seeking comfort and space in a prime location.
Investment Properties: Unique opportunities for those seeking returns in the real estate market.
Comprehensive Holiday Rental Management
Our expertise in holiday rentals stems from a deep understanding of the needs of both property owners and tourists. For owners, we offer a full-service package that includes property promotion on high-visibility platforms, administrative management, and maintenance.
We assist you every step of the way
ARE you looking to sell your coastal property along the beautiful Costa del Sol in southern Spain? Sunset Andalucia Real Estate has you covered. Maddie originally from Denmark has been one of the leading real estate agents for over 21 years in the region, connecting buyers from around the world with their dream homes.
With a vast network of clients, we have many eager buyers ready to purchase properties in the area
stretching from Nerja to Mijas. Whether you own a villa, apartment, or townhouse, our team of experienced agents will ensure your listing stands out. We provide professional photography, detailed listings on all the top real estate portals, and an active social media presence to maximise your property’s exposure.
Our commitment to customer service is second to none. We work closely with each seller to understand their unique needs and
So whether you are looking to sell or wanting to buy your next home in the sun, our multilingual staff is available to assist you every step of the way, making the selling process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
To get started, simply email Maddie at Mail@MaddieHjort or call/ WhatsApp us 686 722 349 670 955 108
This ensures that each property not only retains its value but also provides the best possible experience for guests.
Our Commitment
We understand that buying or selling a property is one of the most significant decisions in a person’s life. That’s why we are committed to:
Listening and Understanding Your Needs: Taking the time to learn your preferences and goals.
Providing Transparency and Trust: Guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring all transactions are clear and secure.
Offering Comprehensive Service: From the initial search to the signing of the contract and beyond, we are with you every step of the way.
Client Testimonials
“Our experience with Guido Bauer was exceptional. They found our
dream home and guided us professionally at every step.” - María and Juan Pérez
“Thanks to Guido Bauer we invested in a property in Torrox Costa which turned out to be an excellent decision. Their market knowledge is impressive.” - Carlos Martínez Contact Us
Looking to buy, sell, or invest in Torrox Costa? Guido Bauer S.L. is your trusted partner in the real estate market. Visit us at our offices or contact us through our communication channels.
Discover your perfect home with Guido Bauer S.L. in Torrox Costa today.
Character Properties on Spain’s Coast
THE appeal of Spain’s coastline is undeniable - sandy beaches, sparkling waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. But what if you crave a little more than a modern apartment? For those seeking a unique home with history and charm, character properties offer a compelling alternative.
The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice coastal living to find one. Regions like Axarquia, on Spain’s southeastern coast, boast character properties located right in charming white villages along or near the stunning coastline.
Imagine owning a renovated fisherman’s cottage with a sunny terrace, just a short walk from the beach. Or a traditional townhouse with original
features. These homes offer a unique blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Thick stone walls keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, while restored interiors create a comfortable and inviting space. Additionally, character properties in Axarquia can be surprisingly affordable compared to those in larger coastal towns. It’s important to consider that owning a historic home might require some maintenance or renovation projects. However, the rewards are substantial.
You’ll own a unique home with a rich past, and become part of a vibrant local community.
So, if you’re looking for a charming and characterful home with the convenience of coastal living, consider exploring Axarquia.
WELCOME to Pool Spas Nerja, your go-to destination for premium hot tubs and wellness products on the stunning Costa del Sol. We pride ourselves on offering the finest brands in the market.
Our selection includes the highly acclaimed Caldera Spas, renowned for their exceptional hydrotherapy features and superior comfort. With advanced water care systems and a variety of models to suit every need, Caldera Spas provide an unparalleled spa experience.
Additionally, we offer Endless Pools, perfect for fitness enthusiasts and those looking for a unique aquatic experience. These pools are designed for endless swimming, low-impact workouts, and family fun, ma-
WHETHER you are searching for a sunkissed villa or a quaint Mediterranean apartment, navigating the vibrant real estate market in Spain, can be equally thrilling and daunting.
While the search for your dream Spanish property can be a lot of fun, the actual purchasing process can be a nightmare of admin and additional costs.
Property transactions in Spain often entail cumbersome processes, including the use of bankers’ drafts, which can lead to delays and hefty fees, in addition to multiple in-person trips to the bank. Currencies Direct
king them a versatile addition to any home. Beyond hot tubs and swim spas, Pool Spas Nerja also caters to your broader wellness needs. We provide high-quality saunas that promise to elevate your relaxation routine, offering a range of health benefits from detoxification to improved circulation.
At Pool Spas Nerja, we provide expert advice and a personalised service to help you choose the perfect wellness solution for your home. Whether you need assistance with installation, maintenance, or finding the right product, our knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way.
Located in the picturesque town of Nerja, we proudly serve clients throughout the Costa del Sol.
Hello@poolspasnerja.com poolspasnerja.com +34 601 645 145 Your Premier Hot Tub destination on the Costa del Sol
Our local expertise, combined with our dedication to quality, makes us the preferred choice for residents and vacation homeowners alike.
Experience the best in relaxation and wellness with Pool Spas Nerja. Visit us today at our brand-new three-storey Hot Tub store to discover how we can help you transform your outdoor living space into a haven of tranquility and luxury.
Simplify your property journey with PropertyPay
understands the challenges that come with purchasing a property overseas, especially in a market as dynamic as Spain’s. That’s why we’ve introduced our game-changing new PropertyPay service, tailored to make the process smoother and more efficient for anyone buying or selling property in Spain.
With PropertyPay there is now a way to streamline the end-to-end payments process, eliminating the need for traditional methods and their associated hassles.
At its core, PropertyPay is a free, secure, and 100 per cent digital service that offers instant fund guarantees and disbursements between buyers and sellers. Unlike conventional methods that can take days to process, PropertyPay ensures that transactions are executed swiftly and efficiently, saving both time and money for all parties involved.
Imagine being able to bid adieu to the days of waiting anxiously for funds to clear or worrying about fluctuating exchange rates. With PropertyPay,
buyers and sellers can rest easy, knowing that their transactions are in safe hands.
Plus, with instant fund transfers* and disbursements, there’s no need to endure the usual wait times - your property dreams can become a reality faster than you ever imagined.
But it’s not just about speed and efficiency - it’s also about saving money. Property transactions can be costly affairs, with hidden fees and unfavourable exchange rates eating into your budget.
Whether you’re purchasing a picturesque villa in Marbella or selling a charming apartment in Barcelona, with PropertyPay, you can say goodbye to those unnecessary expenses and keep more money in your pocket where it belongs.
After all, every euro saved is a step closer to turning your Spanish property dreams into a reality.
Pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or contact propertypay@ currenciesdirect.com to find out more about PropertyPay and how it could
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help save make significant savings whether buying or selling a property in Spain.
*The transfer of funds between buyer and seller can be instant if both have an account with Currencies Direct Spain, E.D.E., S.L
us at our Spanish offices in Costa del Sol, Costa
WE are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our fourth office, right in the heart of Nerja! As your trusted real estate partner, we’re expanding our presence to better serve the vibrant community of Nerja and surrounding areas.
Located centrally in Nerja, our new office is poised to offer unparalleled convenience and expertise for all your property needs. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, our dedicated team of professionals is here to guide you every step of the way. At Competa Properties we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, integrity, and personalised service. With over a decade of experience in the local market, we understand the unique dynamics of the areas property landscape and are dedicated to helping you achieve your property goals.
From charming coastal villas to cosy townhouses and stylish apartments, we have an extensive portfolio of properties to suit every lifes-
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tyle and budget. Our comprehensive approach combines industry-leading technology with a human touch, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients.
Join us in celebrating this exciting milestone and discover why Competa Properties is the preferred choice for all your real estate needs in Nerja and along the Costa del Sol. Visit our new office today located at C/ San Miguel nº 8 and let us help you turn your property dreams into reality!
C/ San Miguel Nº 8, Nerja 851 800 698 competaproperties.com
Holiday rentals
WITH Spain’s real estate market being highly reliant on holiday rentals, investing into this type of accommodation can be a more guaranteed source of income; these are some of the benefits.
Payment security
Tourist rental is normally managed on specialised online platforms, which guarantee payment since customers pay the entire cost in advance when booking. Regular rent, on the other hand, may carry the risk of missed or late payments.
Flexibility
Especially demanded during the summer, tourist accommodation may be taken for personal use in the seasons of low tourist income, reducing the costs of
renting another location, in contrast with long-term rentals where the owners lose access to their property entirely.
Maintenance
Being short-term, holiday rentals require consistent attention, ensuring that the accommodation remains in good condition. This is more convenient than facing costly repairs at the end of the lease in long-term rentals, making tourist accommodation more financially stable for the owners.
One thing to be aware of is the updates in tourist accommodation regulations, adhering to the market´s guidelines. With an increase in tourism in recent years, municipalities across Spain have been placing limitations on holiday homes, hence a consistent review of the laws is essential.
Anna Akopyan
POLAR
AIR Conditioning: Premier Cooling Solutions in Malaga
POLAR AIR CONDITIONING, based in Torrox, is known for its comprehensive air conditioning services for both residential and commercial clients. Specialising in quality installations, routine maintenance, and emergency repairs, they have established a reputation for exceptional service.
In Malaga’s warm climate, a comfortable indoor environment is crucial. Polar Air Conditioning offers a wide range of top-brand units, including energy-efficient models designed to lower energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint while delivering optimal cooling. Their installation services are meticulous, ensuring that every unit operates efficiently from day one. Trained technicians handle complex installations with precision, ensuring all components are correctly fitted and functioning.
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To keep systems running smoothly year-round, Polar Air Conditioning provides regular maintenance packages. These services help prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your equipment.
Additionally, their prompt and reliable repair services ensure that any malfunctions are swiftly addressed, minimising disruption to your daily life. Customer satisfaction is central to Polar Air Conditioning’s philosophy. They offer a personalised service tailored to each client’s needs, ensuring the best possible cooling solutions for homes and businesses alike. Whether you need a new unit, maintenance, or repairs, Polar Air Conditioning’s team of experienced professionals is ready to assist, ensuring comfort and efficiency in every service they provide.
info@polarair.eu - Call: Jordan +34 655 211 192 - www.polarair.eu
Understanding different property valuations is crucial when dealing with property in Spain.
Key Values
TWO key values to consider are cadastral value and market value. Cadastral value, known as ‘valor catastral’ in Spain, is the administrative value assigned to a property by the property registry. It determines property taxes and aims to ensure fair taxation.
Factors influencing cadastral value include location, construction qua-
lity, land value, property age, renovations, historical significance, and surrounding changes.
The value is adjusted annually based on government budgets but doesn’t reflect market dynamics.
To prevent it from exceeding 50 per cent of the market value, a market coefficient of 0.5 is typically applied.
Market value, on the
other hand, is what a buyer is willing to pay for a property in the current real estate market. It fluctuates based on market conditions, demand, and economic factors, making it a crucial aspect of property transactions. Understanding these valuations helps in making informed decisions when buying, selling, or owning property in Spain.
Couple in wrong country From China to Spain
FOLLOWING Spain’s announcement to eradicate the golden visa scheme, non-EU nationals began rushing to purchase Spanish property; many of the buyers are from China.
The golden visa is the only way for foreign, non-European nationals to obtain all the benefits of Spanish residency, without having to pay tax or permanently reside in Spain.
In China, a rise in investments in Spain has been seen ever since the government’s announ-
cement.
Long Fang, CEO of Bafre Inmobilaria, revealed to Spanish Press; “We’ve noticed growing demand,” and highlighted that Chinese buyers especially desire to obtain the golden visa, “that facilitates entry and exit when travelling for business or tourism with the family.”
The majority of Chinese buyers chose to purchase several cheaper apartments and rent them out, while others purchase industrial properties to set up
businesses. There are however, some who invest into luxury properties such as the Chinese buyer who recently bought a €975,000 chalet in Madrid.
The Foreign Ministry recently reported in the golden visas by Transparency International, that China, after Russia, had the most nationals striving for the visa.
A total of 2,712 visas were issued to Chinese nationals since 2019; of these, 99,33 per cent were through property purchases.
ANDREW GORE and his wife Victoria were in for a shock on their way to a family holiday in Spain to celebrate Andrew’s 47th birthday. The couple, from Mountain Ash, Rhondda Cynon Taf, ended up 1,500 miles away from their intended destination after being mistakenly placed on the wrong flight.
Their trip to the sunny Costa Brava was disrupted when they boarded a Ryanair flight at Bristol Airport believing they were flying to Barcelona. However, upon landing, they discovered they were in Kaunas, Lithuania, a city in Eastern Europe.
The mistake stemmed from a mis communication during the boar ding process. Andrew and Victoria, who rely on special assistance due to Andrew’s amputation and Victoria’s autism, were ushered onto the wrong plane. Despite checks by ground staff and cabin crew, the error went unnoticed until the plane touched down.
“We were told our family was definitely on the flight,” recounted Andrew Gore. “We relaxed, thinking everything was fine.” He continued, “When I woke up and saw it wasn’t Spain outside, I knew something was wrong.”
a nightmare. While Ryanair eventually rebooked them to Barcelona, it involved an overnight stay in Riga, Latvia, a 150-mile Uber ride, and a two-day wait for their luggage.
“It was surreal,” said Andrew. “Our family was worried sick, and we were exhausted. Even though they got us there eventually, the stress of the situation lingers.” Both Ryanair and Bristol Airport have launched investigations into the incident.
The couple described the experience as
Andrew and Alice Gore discovered they were on the wrong flight on landing.
GOLDEN VISA: Flying from China to purchase property in Spain.
Credit: Greece-China news, Pexels
Credt: Alice Burnette/fb
IRELAND
In theory
DUBLIN resident Alina Glont was accused of posing as a theory driving test candidate, enabling others to obtain licences between September 2019 and June 2021. The 42-year-old faces charges of conspiracy following an investigation launched in March 2021 by the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB).
Outsiders
AN Education Inspectorate report found that a third of secondary school pupils considered that they did not belong at school or felt that they could not express themselves there. The same recently-released study found that one-10th of primary and special needs students also expressed similar sentiments.
FRANCE
Show’s over
THE iconic Normandie cinema in the capital’s Champs-Elysees, once famous for its gala premieres, closed its doors on June 13 after 90 years. Cinema chain UGC blamed the decision to close the Normandie on a decline in business and a ‘very steep’ rise in the rent charged by the building’s owners, the Qatari royal family.
Barcelona start
PLANS are already being made for the 2026 Tour de France bicycle race which, after years of negotiating by Barcelona City Council, will start in the Catalan capital. The choice was announced on June 18, when mayor Jaume Collboni also revealed that three stages would be held in Catalonia between July 4 and 6.
ITALY
Too hot
AGRICULTURAL output fell by 1.8 per cent in 2023 owing to weather conditions affected by climate change which brought widespread flooding and wildfire last summer, Statistics Agency (Itstat) revealed. Wine and fruit production were the worst-affected with respective reductions of 17.4 and 11.2 per cent.
Not needed
MORE than 100 people have launched a collective lawsuit to fight construction of a bridge over the Messina Strait connecting Sicily and mainland Italy, arguing that it would be “unconstitutional and unfeasible” and a waste of public money. Critics also said the bridge increased the risk of mafia infiltration into the mainland.
EURO PRESS
BELGIUM
Special brew
THE Westmalle Brewery in Kempen Abbey, one of four run by Trappist monks, opens to visitors for the first time on September 25 and 16, although the 750 available tickets sold out immediately. Westmalle’s 50 employees, supervised by the abbey community, produce an annual 120,000 litres of Extra, Double and Triple Beer.
NORWAY
Road closed
TROLLSTIGEN, the winding mountain road and pass that is a major tourist attraction in More og Romsdal near Mold, remained closed for several days following a rockslide that damaged a car on June 16. The popular route had already suffered various rockfalls last spring and its reopening was delayed until June 7.
No pause
NORWAY has increased controls over adoptions from abroad but will allow them to continue pending a government review into the legality and ethics of past adoptions. Although the Child Welfare Services had recommended a halt, Children and Families minister Kjersti Toppe said she saw no need for an interim pause.
DENMARK
Not suspicious
FIRE broke out at offices in Bagsvaerd leased by pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, makers of weight-loss drug Wegovy. Apparently caused by gas canisters on the roof, this was the third recent blaze to affect the company’s premises although investigators have ruled out criminal activity or a link between the fires.
Going under
KING FREDERIK inaugurated the first phase of the future 18-kilometre Fehmarnbelt road and rail tunnel below the Baltic linking southern Denmark and northern Germany on June 17. Once completed in 2029, the rail crossing will cut the present 45-minute sea journey by ferry to around seven minutes by train.
PORTUGAL
In trust
A FORMER deputy bank manager from Cartaxo (Alentejo), who is now in Brazil but unlocatable by the authorities, is being tried in absentia for diverting €576,000 from clients’ accounts to his own. The six customers whose cash was siphoned off told police that they had “total confidence” in him at the time.
Flower power
UNIVERSITY OF PORTO (FCUP) researchers are investigating the possible health benefits of edible flowers, in particular carnations and pansies. They are now looking into the best way of eating them in order to maximise the benefits of what the FCUP team described as a possible “new trend in dietary patterns.”
FINLAND
Jab offer
THE Social Affairs and Health ministry announced that bird flu vaccines will soon be available for people considered to be at risk from the disease. Those in line for the jab include vets and staff working with poultry or fur animals, as well as those people who would be most vulnerable if they contracted avian influenza.
Big anniversary
TURKU, Finland’s oldest city, is to have a museum focusing on History and the Future to celebrate its 800th anniversary in 2029. The new museum’s design competition was won by Finnish firm, Sigge Architects, who city mayor Minna Arve said had exemplified the values of a city that always looked to the future.
SWEDEN
Work it out
THE minimum salary for obtaining a work permit will inevitably rise after Statistics Sweden (SCB) updated the average basic salary to 35,600 kronor (€3,168) a month. As the work permit threshold is based on 80 per cent of the average wage, it will now be necessary to earn at least 28,480 kronor (€2,535) a month.
Why not me
AHMADREZA DJALALI a Swedish-Iranian doctor from the Karolinska Institute has spent 3,000 days in an Iran prison, accused of espionage. Following the recent release of two Swedish citizens in a prisoner swap, Djalali accused Sweden’s prime minister of leaving him behind and excluding him from the deal.
GERMANY
New angle
LUFTHANSA subsidiary, Lufthansa Technik, which maintains, repairs and overhauls civilian and commercial aircraft, hopes to get involved in providing the same services for military aircraft. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has created new business areas while boosting established companies, the parent company said.
Amazon staff
AMAZON announced a €10 billion investment supporting the expansion of its logistics network and cloud infrastructure across Germany. The online giant is also creating 4,000 new jobs and by the end of this will have 40,000 permanent employees in roles of all kinds at all levels in more than 100 German towns and cities.
NETHERLANDS
Fine signs
A SURVEY by the AD newspaper and Autotrack found that fines for ignoring road signs excluding speeding and parking, had practically doubled over the past 10 years, rising from 420,000 in 2014 to 763,000 in 2024. Of these, 79,600 went to Amsterdam, followed by Rotterdam (45,600) and The Hague (27,900).
Keen to stay
A HUMPBACK whale seen swimming close to the Netherlands coast was not necessarily confused, as some animal-lovers feared. A Dolfin SOS spokesperson who saw the whale said a humpback could easily navigate shallow coastal waters and, if food was plentiful, it was likely to remain some time.
TRAPPIST BREWERY: Traditional methods and updated equipment.
Photo credit: Westmalle Brewery
Foreign travel advice for UK visitors to Spain.
UK visitors
WITH the UK’s departure from the EU, the landscape has changed, and citizens are now subject to the rules applicable to non-Schengen members.
For those visiting residents in Spain, beyond a valid passport, most other documents that may be asked for are pretty standard and include, for example, valid travel insurance or evidence of return or onward journey.
However, the UK government website stipulates that an invitation or proof of address, such as a ‘Carta de invitation’ comple-
ted by hosts, may also be required if staying with a third party, friends, or family. This o cial document was introduced as a requirement on January 1 2022. However, it would appear that many UK tourists have neglected to have it, perhaps because evidence suggests that it is rarely asked for, if at all.
For those who prefer to err on the side of caution, an o cial Letter of Invitation can only be obtained by the property owner or holder of the rental contract where the visitor will be staying. According
to the Spain Immigration Service website, the rst step is to make an appointment (cita previa) on the SEDE - Administraciones Publicas in the relevant province.
A completed invitation form and a Tasa 790 012 printed, paid, and stamped by the bank will be required. The current cost is €75.05, with a further admin fee upon collecting the o cial letter - currently €6 to €7, depending on the police station. Further details can be found on the Spanish Service Immigration website.
Beating the heat
SPAIN is gearing up for the summer, and with it comes heatwaves with temperatures which can soar above 40°C (104°F). Here are some tips to stay cool and ensure everyone’s safety during the heatwave: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive alcohol, as they can dehydrate you further. During the hottest parts of the day (typically between 12pm and 4pm), stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces or find shady areas outdoors. Wear loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing made from natural fibres like cotton or linen. Light-coloured clothing reflects heat, while dark colours absorb it.
Provide ample fresh, cool water. Ensure your pets have constant access to clean water throughout the day. Avoid walks during the hottest part of the day. If you must walk your dog, choose shady paths, and keep walks short. Provide shaded areas with good ventilation for your pets to rest.
Prepare sensibly for Spain’s rising temperatures.
Regularly check in on older adults who live alone to ensure they are staying hydrated and cool. Assist them with tasks like closing curtains or blinds during the day and opening windows at night for cooler air.
By following these tips and looking out for each other, we can all navigate any heatwaves safely and comfortably.
Never leave pets unattended in parked cars. Even with the windows cracked open, the inside of a car can quickly become a deadly furnace.
Remember, even if the initial weather brings storms, the scorching temperatures are just around the corner. Be prepared!
Credit: Bradley Hook/Pexels
Prepare for the worst
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
ONE of the lessons I have learned in life is that it is generally more advantageous to prepare for the worst. In my younger days, I was an avid flower child. I truly believed that love and peace was the answer to all our human shortcomings. (And still do.)
Unfortunately, I was rudely awakened by the fact that not everyone followed the same ideals. As reality slowly set in, and the rose coloured glasses subsequently misted up, I begun to realise that metaphorically, if I attempted to offer a bunch of flowers to an adversary bearing a Kalashnikov rifle, the one who walked away from the encounter would not be me!
Survival in the real world meant reluctantly discarding the floral specs and facing up to a future full of uncertainties. Twenty-five years ago I wrote that if the West didn’t curb the unchecked immigration from the Middle East, in a few years it would be too late. You should have heard the ridicule I received for that particu-
lar prediction, mainly from the mere handful of readers who consider my views reflect that of an elderly bigoted racist and are always inclined to shout the loudest. Well so be it. I simply cannot let this week pass by without a mention of a subject glaringly prominent on social media. A heart wrenching topic that has attracted thousands of comments from the ladies of Western society, but naturally received no mention whatsoever from the leftie woke controlled media.
The truth of the matter is that the ladies, particularly those who reside in the big UK cities, are becoming frightened to even walk down the street. Everywhere they go they are catcalled, followed and insulted by sexist comments from large numbers of men who now congregate in our towns and cities. Young men, none of whom, according to one extremely perturbed Lady, are of British nationality. Well of course they’re not.
The majority of these young immigrants hail from Islamic societies who consider any female not clad from head to foot, a loose woman. Sex objects to ridicule, insult (and possibly attack) with impunity. Never
forget this old ‘bigot’ resided in an Islamic country for eight years and can tell you that all of their women are considered second or third class citizens. Almost unbelievably these men, who are endangering and insulting the Western female, are those who the woke brigade want to integrate into a happily diverse and peaceful Western society! Ha, gimme a break. The truth of the matter is that these male immigrants and their ancestors have followed the Islamic teachings for thousands of years and it will NEVER happen. They actually want us to integrate into their culture and are hell bent and utterly supported by their peers in the quest.
When is the West going to wake up and drum out the woke imbeciles who are endeavouring to control our societies and will ultimately provoke utter disaster?
Let’s hope the ol boy’s majority of readers see fit to reply to this piece and not leave it to the leftie minority to once again voice their utterly unwelcome and immature reactions.
Keep the faith
Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Money heist mystique!
FANCY a spot of Spanish TV?
Money Heist or La Casa de Papel became a global smash hit after Netflix scooped it up in late 2017. Remember those audacious Salvador Dalí-masked robbers in red overalls, waltzing into the Royal Mint and the Bank of Spain? That was Money Heist!
The show’s creator, Álex Pina, is now revisiting its most flamboyant character, Berlin.
Ignoring the awkward fact Berlin met his end in a hail of bullets in season two, he’s bringing him back in a prequel, titled simply ‘Berlin’.
Pina admits the new series partly aims to rectify past mistakes: ‘If we’d known we’d land on Netflix, we wouldn’t have offed him!’ Berlin in the prequel remains as suave, snobbish and scheming as ever, planning a Paris heist worth €44m, all the while grumbling about wife number three.
Pina puts Money Heist’s success down to its Spanish flair and emotional depth, a breath of
fresh air in a genre often seen as cold and technical.
He reckons viewers crave something truly different, like Money Heist or the Korean sensation, Squid Game.
As he gears up for his next project - a drama about the ultra-rich surviving doomsday in luxury bunkers - Pina hints it’ll be up to the public to let him know if they want more of the Money Heist universe. Watch this space!
Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Couple across the Street’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
What’s in a name
THE sharp-eyed and sharp-eared will have noticed that official announcements during the Euro 2024 football tournament refer to the Netherlands, not Holand.
Although many English-speakers still tend to use either or both of the names without giving the matter much thought, North Holland and South Holland are only two of the Netherlands’ 12 provinces. It is also true however, that at one point Holland was more dominant as it was once the largest contributor to the overall economy and wealth of the Netherlands.
The country’s formal, official name is now Kingdom of the Netherlands and from January 1, 2020, the Dutch government announced that it would refer to itself only as the Netherlands, and not Holland.
Dutch companies and the Tourist Board followed suit and also agreed to stick to the Netherlands term, together with new logos incorporating the NL letters. Nevertheless, the Dutch national side, having been referred to as Holland in the course of so many previous championships, is still nicknamed Holland.
INTERVIEW
Speaking European –
Tova Lind
AT just 19 years old, Tova Lind has already embarked on a remarkable adventure, leaving behind her homeland of Sweden to follow her passion for horses in Spain.
Talyta Franca, Class 2026, Northwest University of Qatar Fresh out of Mälardalens Ridgymnasium, with a major in agriculture and horse knowledge, Tova’s love for equestrian activities, especially show jumping, has always been a driving force in her life.
Tova’s journey to Spain began when a school friend mentioned a job opportunity that see med made for her. “She thought it would be perfect for me, and I didn’t want to spend the winter in Sweden,” Tova says. Relocating to a new country can be an intimidating challenge for many young Europeans. For Tova, however, it was an exciting one. “At first, it was hard just having the guts to get out and do stuff,” she admits.
The language barrier remains a significant hurdle for Tova, as English is not widely spoken in her field. “In my line of work, there aren’t a lot of people who know any English, so communication has been difficult from time to time,” she says. Making friends has been a mixed experience but although she doesn’t have family in Spain, her boss and her housemates have become like an extended family.
Looking ahead, Tova hopes to remain in Spain for the long term, but wishes to visit Sweden more frequently. “I’ve been back twice since I moved,” she says.
NETHERLANDS: ‘Holland’ still a nickname for the national side.
Tova Lind
Is it good or bad for us? VOX Pop
AS Arti cial Intelligence (AI) is set to become a more integral part of people’s everyday lives, we asked our readers if they thought AI was good or bad for society.
Georgina Doran from Ireland, now living in Albir had this to say, “Technology is exciting and we must embrace change or we will be left behind. However, it is crucial to ensure that AI is developed and used in an ethical and responsible manner. She continued “it is like anything, everything is ok in moderation. Society creates original ideas with feelings and this is something that AI can’t achieve.”
Ingrid Moya Martinez, who moved to Benidorm from Cuba has mixed feelings about AI, “I believe AI has positive aspects for society as well as negative ones. For example, as a positive, I believe that with AI you can obtain faster and more efficient results, you can automate many processes and thus maintain more optimal and detailed control. She went on to say, “In short, it would develop technology in an extraordinary way, which leads to a fairly important disadvantage and that is that jobs would decrease considerably.”
David Van Dyke , originally from Rotterdam and now living in Albox said, “to be honest I don’t quite understand what impact it is likely to have on my life. Maybe some of the stories I read will have been created by AI, but hopefully it’s not going to be like the film The Matrix where Artificial Intelligent robots conquer the world.”
Rosalinda Garcia , who came to Spain from England at a very young age, was scathing in her views on AI, “It has been present for much longer than we know and they have told us. Little by little they are making it known to the world’s population and we no longer know what is real and what is a lie and this is dangerous to society.”
David Collada , a Cuban who has lived in Spain for more than 20 years and is a regular user of AI, feels it is good for society: “I am precisely quite immersed in this AI; I think of this technology as a revolution more like the industrial revolution or the internet revolution. It will streamline many processes, and like any revolution, at first, it will destroy many jobs, but in the long run, it will create many more.”
Bus running
ALTHOUGH many will have heard of the Bull running of Pamplona, there is a slightly more unusual version that takes place in Torralba de Ribota (Aragon).
In the 1970s it appears that the council forgot to renew its bull running licence and therefore the local young men in particular were very disappointed.
One bright spark however worked out that the local bus could be driven at a speed similar to that of the bulls and the sport of Bus running of Torralba de Ribota was born.
It takes place in early August each year in Spain as part of the San Felix Festival and at rst those organising the festival were a bit embarrassed to include it in the list of activities, but
now it has found an audience and has become almost a rite of passage for local teenagers, male and female.
At 8am on the penultimate day of the festival, those taking part gather by the municipal pavilion and wait to hear the sound of the motor approaching, then as it arrives, hesitating until the last moment, they take o sprinting approximately 300 metres down the road with the bus on their tails.
It’s all good fun, no-one gets gored (or run over) and the bus isn’t subject to any stress unlike the bulls in the streets of Pamplona.
So, slightly out of breath but delighted by their success in keeping ahead of the bus, the 50 or so youngsters taking part are then ready for the rest of the San Felix festivities.
INGRID MOYA MARTINEZ DAVID COLLADA
GEORGINA DORAN
QUIRKY TOWN
Cutting edge chic
THE Bixie cut, a fusion of the classic bob and pixie cut, has emerged as a trendy hairs tyle in the fashion world.
This versatile look combines the best elements of both styles, offering the chicness of a bob with the edginess of a pixie. It featu res short layers and a slight ly longer length than a traditional pixie, often accompa nied by textured ends and face-framing pieces.
Celebrities and in fluencers have
popularised the Bixie cut, making it a go to choice for those seeking a bold yet manageable hairstyle. Its adaptability suits various face shapes and hair types, allowing for customisation to enhance individual features.
The Bixie cut is not just stylish but also practical, requiring minimal maintenance while providing a fresh, youthful appearance. Whether sleek and polished or tousled and playful, the Bixie cut is perfect for anyone looking to make a modern statement with their hair.
Quick lash fix
THE latest innovation in false eyelashes is revolutionising the beauty industry is the no-glue, no-magnetic eyeliner lashes. These new lashes, often referred to as adhesive strip lashes, feature a self-adhesive band that press on directly to the lash line without the need for messy glue or magnetic liners. This design offers a hassle-free application process, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned make-up enthusiasts.
The effectiveness of the se lashes lies in their convenience and du rability. The self-adhesive strip is typically designed to be reusable, retaining its stickiness for multiple uses with proper care. These lashes are lightweight and comfortable, providing a natural look while enhancing lash volu me and length.
These no-glue, no-magnetic eyeliner lashes are particularly favoured for their quick application and removal, reducing the risk of irritation that can be caused by traditional adhesives. As a result, they offer a practical and efficient solution for achieving stunning, voluminous lashes with minimal effort.
Beauty roller rave
SKIN rollers have become an essential addition to many skincare routines, offering a variety of benefits and types to address different skin needs. These handheld tools, featuring roller heads with tiny needles or smooth surfaces, enhance skin health and appearance.
One popular type is the derma roller, equipped with micro-needles that create tiny punctures in the skin. This stimulates collagen production, reducing fine lines, scars,
and hyperpigmentation. Derma rollers come in various needle lengths for different skin concerns. Shorter needles are ideal for delicate facial areas, while longer needles suit thicker skin on the body.
Another type is the jade roller, known for its smooth, cool surface. Typically made from jade or other gemstones, this roller reduces puffiness, improves blood circulation, and enhances lymphatic drainage. Jade rollers
also help with better absorption of skincare products when used after applying serums or moisturisers.
Lastly, the ice roller features a gel-filled roller head that can be chilled in the freezer. This type soothes irri-
tated skin, reduces redness, and provides a refreshing, tightening effect.
Incorporating skin rollers into your routine can improve skin texture making them a valuable tool in modern skincare.
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol Multisensory classroom
A MULTISENSORY classroom has been opened in a nursery in Mijas
It is a place where children from zero to three years old can develop their social, emotional, motor, and cognitive skills.
The classroom was inaugurated on Thursday June 20 in the Europa municipal nursery school in La Cala de Mijas.
Ana Mata, mayor of Mijas said: “Through their senses, children understand the world around them better. With this multisensory classroom, this knowledge and discovery of the environment is enhanced, as it allows them to explore new sounds, textures, images, smells... Learning is more complete and fun for them.”
The room has a corner for each sense; a visual space, an auditory corner, an olfactory corner, a sense of touch space, a gustatory space, and a proprioceptive corner. Every corner has objects and activities for each child to explore.
Costa Blanca North Global appeal
ALICANTE concluded its Hogueras festivities with record-breaking attendance and a hotel occupancy rate exceeding 93 per cent.
La Nit de la Cremà, held in the early hours of June 25, marked the end of the Bonfire celebrations, which saw over 1.5 million visitors.
The festivities also achieved full capacity in the accommodation and catering sectors, with more than a million people participating in events daily.
Cristina Cutanda, councillor for Festivals of the Alicante City Council, praised the festival’s unique global appeal, noting the historic records in hotel and restaurant occupancy.
She also highlighted the absence of significant incidents and the high artistic quality of the monuments as notable aspects of the 2024 Bonfires.
Participation in the different events held during the holidays has been massive. The streets have been packed, with records of more than a million people per day
Mallorca
New Netflix show
BRITISH TV presenter and actress, Amanda Holden, is in Mallorca, filming her upcoming Netflix dating show, ‘Cheaters: Unfinished Business’.
‘Cheaters: Unfinished Business’ reunites ex-couples for a chance to rekindle their romance after infidelity. Co-produced by the team behind Love Island, the show promises to explore the complexities of love and forgiveness. Holden expressed her enthusiasm about the project, calling it a ‘dream come true’ and revealing her eagerness to work with experts to help couples navigate their emotional journeys.
Speaking of unfinished business, a public spat recently erupted between Amanda and Sharon Osbourne, after Amanda jumped to Simon Cowell’s defence having heard Sharon and Louis Walsh mocking him on Celebrity Big Brother. Amanda hopes to repair the relationship.
Amanda’s signature style and infectious energy are likely to make the show a must-watch.
Costa Blanca South Community spirit
MORE than 7,000 revellers flooded the streets of Elda for their Moors and Christians’ festivals which took place over five days starting from June 12.
As the Moors and Christians’ festivals in Elda come to a close, we spoke with Aitana Cerdán to understand their significance.
Fifteen-year-old Aitana, a resident of Elda, has been actively participating in the Moors and Christians’ festivals for the past seven years.
“For me and for the people of Elda, the Moors and Christians’ festivals are much more than just parades and dinners,” Aitana says.
“It’s hard to describe the feeling in words, but it’s about the whole town coming together. The streets of Elda are filled with a wonderful sense of community and tradition. It’s an incredible feeling.”
“It’s about the connection between people, the gatherings, and the parades. Very few people aren’t genuinely festive. It’s much more than just a party; it’s a celebration of our culture and community spirit.”
Almeria
Starved of fuel
THE only way that so-called ‘narco boats’ can cross into Spanish waters carrying cargos of drugs is if they have plenty of fuel.
An operation undertaken by the Guardia Civil and the Spanish Tax Agency which has lasted for nearly a year has finally closed one major ‘pipeline’ in Almeria.
Some 50 people known to be members of the ‘Clan de los Lateros’ have been arrested and the entire platform for fuel supply for illicit traffic along the Mediterranean is considered dismantled.
The headquarters of the fuel suppliers was identified as being in Puente del Río, Adra and after the long investigation was complete, officers swooped and seized firearms, €700,000 in cash, expensive cars, a fuel tanker and some 25 boats as well as 40,000 litres of fuel.
Amazingly, one of the leaders of the illegal operation was actually in prison and issued encrypted instructions over a mobile phone that he hid in his prison cell.
Costa Calida Ladies Day
MABS Mazarron, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their loved ones, celebrated a successful Ladies’ Day event on June 21. The event, held to raise funds for their cause, surpassed expectations by collecting over €800. The highlight of the day was a vibrant fashion show organised by MABS Mazarron, showcasing local style and creativity. Attendees also participated enthusiastically in a raffle, with prizes generously donated by local businesses. The atmosphere was further enhanced by a heartfelt performance from The Harlequin Choir, adding a musical touch to the occasion.
Funds raised during the event will contribute directly to MABS Mazarron’s mission of providing practical assistance and emotional support to people affected by cancer in the community. The organisation expressed gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and sponsors whose contributions made the day a remarkable success.
Primark in Portugal
PRIMARK, the budget clothing retailer, announced a massive €40 million investment to expand in Portugal. This news coincides with Primark celebrating its 15th anniversary in the country.
“We’re thrilled to share our investment plan and enter four new cities,” said Nelson Ribeiro, Head of Sales at Primark Portugal, during a recent press presentation. The expansion plan includes four brand new stores in Guimaraes, Viseu, Covilha, and Montijo. Additionally, Primark is completing the expansion of its popular Colombo store in Lisbon, o ering shoppers an even larger space lled with clothing, homeware essentials, and beauty products at a ordable prices.
The new stores, ranging from 1,630 to 2,460 square metres, will be strategically located in popular shopping centres and retail parks. The Montijo store, opening later this year at Alegro Montijo, is already accepting applications, with recruitment for other stores expected to begin in the coming months.
This expansion is expected to create over 500 new jobs, adding to Primark’s existing workforce of more than 1,700 employees across Portugal. Primark is known for its diverse workforce, employing people from over 11 nationalities. With 10 existing stores and four new ones on the horizon, Primark is poised to become even more prominent.
Firework fools
THIRTEEN people who let off fireworks from their yacht began a forest fire on Hydra, an island near Athens.
The boat’s occupants, who are all Greek citizens, reportedly tried to stem the blaze which began late on the night of June 21 but fled once it was obvious that the fire was out of control.
Giorgos Koukoudakis, Hydra mayor, said he was “outraged”, and would take legal action against the “irresponsible” people who had devastated Hydra’s only pine forest.
In an interview with Greece’s public broadcaster, ERT, Koukoudakis also called on the authorities to designate fire-free zones and to create more firebreaks and roads through forests.
Hydra’s fire brigade explained on social media that the pine forest’s inaccessibility had pre-
vented them from reaching the area by land. Instead, they had to get the flames under control from the beach, while helicopters helped to douse the fire from the air.
Following a mild winter and temperatures that reached 44 degrees in some areas in mid-June, fire is an ever-present risk.
Officials said 64 forest and brush fires broke out in Greece in the 24 hours between late on June 21 and June 22. High temperatures and strong winds
The frustration starts
MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION
I NEEDED to make an appointment to see a neurologist. I have private healthcare and I am also covered by national health. So I ‘phone the Xanit - and they deserved to be named. I pressed all the right buttons - 1 for English - and hear all the automatic responses. A person answers and asks, in Spanish, what I want and I ask for an English-speaking agent. I’m told to hold, which I do, and after ve minutes or so get cut o . I then tried online - didn’t work. I tried their phone App - didn’t work. All together I invested six hours of absolutely wasted time and e ort.
I decided that I would not be beaten. I’d drive to the hospital, see a manager and make an o cial complaint, and then also try and get an appointment. I get there at 16.05, go in and ask to see a manager, and was told, by a very nice bloke, that all the managers leave at four. How can a 24-hour hospital not have a manager there at all times? It’s nuts. I told him and he agreed. I then told
him I couldn’t get the App to work and he said. ‘Yes there are always problems with it.’ Then why doesn’t someone get it xed? He reminds me that he’s not a manager but he would see if he could get me an appointment. I explained that I also couldn’t get through on the ‘phone. ‘Oh yes’, he said, ‘the problem there is that it’s not done locally anymore. It’s done through a central o ce in Madrid and even though it gives you all the English options to select, there are very few English-speaking agents to help.’ He then suggested that I put in an ocial complaint and promptly gave me a form, which he had very close to hand. All this automated stu is great if it works. The problem is that it doesn’t or at least it doesn’t work all the time and that’s when the frustration starts. They spend millions setting all this stu up and then let it loose on the public. I have been told by people I know who are in this business that they know it’s not working properly and try and x it as the problems are pointed out by us the guinea pigs. My advice is don’t let it out until it works properly.
Email: mikesenker@gmail.com
Mike’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
complicated the task of controlling them, with a volunteer firefighter losing his life in Ilia on the Peloponnese peninsula on June 21.
In a bid to eradicate negligence, human error and arson, the government has introduced fines of up to €200,000 and prison terms of up to 20 years.
Arson is an ever-present problem, and at least 79 people were arrested in Greece in August 2023, charged with provoking destructive fires.
VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN
Primark makes fashion and home-ware affordable.
HYDRA, GREECE: Pine forest destroyed by stray fireworks.
CC/ Herbert Ortner
Doggy discomfort
Lily Taylor
YOUR dog or cat pressing their head against a wall is not a laughing matter, it more than likely needs your help.
It may look like your pup is being told off or performing a party trick, but the reality is that it is probably due to something more sinister.
They are trying to relieve the pressure from their head and an urgent trip to the vet is what is needed to relieve the poor animal from its pain. Many conditions could lead your pet to adopt this unusual behaviour, but it is usually due to some form of neurological disorder:
Head trauma from a fall or a car accident can result in brain bleeding.
Salt imbalances are one of the reasons; dogs require a high level of salt to function and a lack of this leads to the swelling of cells,
including brain cells.
Your pet can suffer from human conditions including brain tumours and strokes.
According to South East Veterinary Neurology, “Out of all the neurological problems that affect dogs, especially older dogs, brain tumours are one of the most common.”
Lead poisoning or other toxins can also prompt this kind of pain relief method.
And finally, rabies and parasites are common reasons for your doggy’s discomfort.
The majority of these conditions do have cures, but only if caught and treated with enough time. These problems tend to be accompanied by other symptoms therefore any behaviour that you consider out of character is worth checking out with your vet.
Cats can learn tricks too
CONTRARY to popular belief, cats can learn tricks just like dogs.
While felines are often seen as more independent and less trainable, with the right approach and patience, they can perform a variety of tricks, enhancing their mental stimulation and bond with their owners.
Training a cat requires understanding their motivations. Unlike dogs, cats are not as driven by praise but can be highly motivated by treats and play. Clicker training is an effective method, using a clicker to mark desired
I, like our HouseSitMatch pet-sitters, love
IT may surprise you to learn that even as the founder of the House SitMatch network I love animals and pet-sitting too. We travel so much for our work that keeping pets at home is not fair. So I, like our house-sitting animal lovers, get my fix by house and pet-sitting through our network.
By joining a house-sitting platform like HouseSitMatch we facilitate an old fashioned barter exchange where a pet owner provides the sitter with free accommodation and the sitter cares for the pets and property with due care and attention.
Plus HouseSitMatch saves money as the pet-sitting is free!
If you use HouseSitMatch.com you find free checked pet-sitters who pay their way to stay in your home caring for your pets in your absence. It’s an arrangement facilitated by a managed online system. Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services - free accommodation for free pet care!
HouseSitMatch is safe - all members are checked
All members are checked for safety, and you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence.
Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed
All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesitmatch. com for affordable travel, home and pet care and peace of mind. If you’re travelling in 2024 join now and get organised today: 1. Register as a homeowner
animals
on HouseSitMatch.com
2. Choose a Premium account (£89 pa) to ensure you get help online.
3. Create a profile with photos of your pets and home.
4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.
How does it work?
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 from the applicants.
Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5
Excellent
My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks…
Sherel and John looked after Harry early April. They sent photos and mails to inform us how he was getting on. My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks. Sherel and John are very nice people, and we highly recommend them as excellent sitters. Tom C - Homeowner in Mojacar, Spain
How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com
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behaviours followed by a reward. Start with simple tricks like ‘sit’ or ‘high five’, gradually moving to more complex tasks as your cat becomes more comfortable.
Consistency and short, positive training sessions are key. Keep sessions brief to maintain your cat’s interest and always end on a positive note.
Training not only teaches tricks but also helps build a stronger relationship between you and your feline friend, proving that cats are just as capable of learning as their canine counterparts.
Lamia the founder loves animals too.
38 CLASSIFIEDS
OTHERS
BLINDS
REMOVALS/STORAGE
SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@ solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (287972)
BUY & SELL
PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)
CHARITY
New Life Church Whether you live in Nerja or are visiting our area, you are very welcome to come and join us at our Sunday gathering. Join us for a time of Holy Spirit led worship and experience the presence of our God. Our teaching is
Bible based as we honour God and obey His Word. During this time of uncertainty, God’s Word reminds us that the Gospel shines brightest in times of darkness. Our service lasts for about 1 hour and 30 mins. With Tea and Coffee afterwards. Sunday Service 11.00am; Prayer Meetings
Wednesdays 11.00am; Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780 Email: info@nlcnerja. com Website: www.nlcnerja. com Facebook:www. facebook.com/nlcnerj
CHARITY Shop Pocapecunia we need things for the house/kitchen, decoration, vases, plates, cups, saucers, kitchen tools, paintings, pottery pots and pans etc. Prolongacion Avd. Rodgriguez Acosta, Nr the Parador Roundabout, opposite café Trébol, Nerja (294373)
CHURCH SERVICES
THE ANGLICAN Chaplaincy of Nerja & Almunecar. Every Sunday there is a Holy Communion service at midday in San Miguel church in Nerja. Every Wednesday morning at 9.30 we have an online ‘Zoom’ HC serviceplease contact Fr Nigel with an e-mail address if you
would like to join us. Priest in Charge, Father Nigel Thomas. Tel: Church House - 951 815 736, Mobile: 608 695 756, e-mail: cofenerja@gmail. com
FOR SALE/WANTED
WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662) INSURANCE
STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com (2887610)
MISCELLANEOUS
GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)
MOTORING FOR SALE
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)
If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161
EDS? We have the solution, K amagra pills & jells, Cialis, Si denafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Free delivery throughout Costa del Sol. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394
SOLAR ENERGY
SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for Large Glazed Areas to Reflect Heat / Glare and Stop Furniture Fading and Still Keep The View. Save Heat in the Winter to Improve Your Living Environment. ian@ solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (258409)
WINDOW TINTING
MOBILE SERVICE. ITV Legal. Solar Reflective tint for glass curtains, balconies, yachts. Stop fading, heat & glare. 958 496 571 - 644 546 176 ian@solarshadetinting.com (287972)
SOLAR PROTECTION
ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE
A fiesta of football on Axarfusion Finals day!
BOTH Over 50s and 60s Axarfusion Finals took place on Saturday June 22, hosted at Internacionales Mollina’s home ground, a fabulous gesture on their part, as this has been their first season competing in the AWFL.
Over 60s Axarfusion Cup Final
Nerja United 3 v 1 Malaga
The game began with fairly even exchanges between both teams with neither seeming to take the initiative. However, Nerja took the lead throu-
gh a penalty after the Malaga goalie strayed out of his area. This seemed to galvanise the Nerja side and they came out looking much more purposeful after the break. Malaga tried unsuccessfully to fight their way back into the match but, due to excellent organisation and discipline on the part of the Nerja defence, they were always up against it and managed few scoring chances, with the Nerja attack looking more dangerous throughout. Nerja kept up the pressure and scored two more through well-worked free kicks to go 3 - 0 up and, although Malaga were able to find a reply through a well-taken penalty by Mark Sargent following an infringement, the result was a testament to how much improved Nerja have become after a difficult beginning to the league season. Mick Sweeney, Keith Bucknell and Gerry Black were their scorers. Commiserations to Malaga and congratulations to a Nerja side who fully deserved their victory!
Barcelona sign Ellie Roebuck
Talyta Franca, Class 2026, Northwestern University in Qatar BARCELONA has signed the Manchester City goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck on a free transfer, as announced by the club’s official website on Wednesday June 19.
The 24-year-old has joined the four-time Champion’s League winners on a two-year contract after the expiration of her contract with City, which will keep her in Spain until 2026.
The English player also received the 2019-2020 Golden Glove award, for her performance in Manchester City’s first league title win in 2016, in addition to winning the FA Cup and League Cup three times with the club.
Roebuck expressed her enthusiasm for the move in an interview with Barcelona’s official website: “I am very excited. I’d been waiting for this chance for a long time. I’m very happy to be
During her time with the English club, Roebuck won seven domestic trophies and was part of the squad that held all three domestic titles between 2016 and 2017.
here. You could say that now everything fits and this was the perfect time to come.”
She said she is grateful for this new opportunity and that there is “nowhere better” to live this new experience than in Barcelona.
“I like to play with the ball at my feet and this is the perfect team to do that with. I enjoy possession and playing out from the back, so I hope to contribute my style,” said Roebuck.
