Axarquia 4 – 10 July 2024 Issue 2035

No Water Worries

Catherine McGeer

THE Euro Weekly News re-

cently followed an 11-day family holiday in Nerja to get a glimpse into how the ongoing drought in the Axarquia region is affecting tourism. Dave Boyne, from Ireland, and his family checked in with us throughout their holiday to give us some insights.

Water levels in local reservoirs are at critical levels leading to significant water restrictions across the region. These cuts have posed challenges for the region’s 208,000 residents. Water cuts have been implemented throughout the region and there were question marks before summer about whether the swimming pools in the region would be filled. “Pre-holiday one of our main concerns was a problem with water shortages due to the ongoing shortage of rain in

the region,” said Dave.

“Happily, it (the water restrictions) did not affect us until the last two days, the showers on the beaches were turned off, but definitely no issue with the apartment at any stage,” Dave stated.

Overall, the family described their holiday as one of the nicest they have

ever had, praising the friendliness and helpfulness of the locals.

“I could not speak highly enough about how friendly the locals were; they could not do enough for you,” Dave added. Dave and his family look forward to returning to Nerja in the future.

Coastal excellence

NERJA is celebrating a major win this summer with four Blue Flags fluttering proudly at Burriana, Torrecilla, Maro, and Playazo-Chucho beaches. These flags are more than just symbols - they signify top-notch beaches with excellent services and clean, safe waters.

The prestigious awards were recently presented in a ceremony held at the headquarters of the Public Enterprise for Tourism and Sports Management of Andalucia.

The Foundation for Environmental Education has recognised Nerja’s ongoing efforts, steadily increasing its Blue Flag count year after year. Nerja is now the town on the eastern Axarquia Costa del Sol with the most Blue Flags.

Starlite journey

TRIANA in Velez-Malaga is gearing up for its seventh Night Route of the Perseids hike, set under starry skies on August 10.

The 12-kilometre round-trip route winds through agricultural trails lined with fruit trees such as avocados and mangoes, offering panoramic views of the region and a chance to observe the Perseids from an unparalleled natural setting.

“The Night Route of the Perseids has become a summer classic in our municipality, drawing visitors from across Spain who revel in a magical night immersed in nature and astronomy,” said deputy mayor of Triana and Trapiche, Lourdes Piña, when unveiling the event.

Designed for those with moderate to high fitness levels, the itinerary starts at the Café-Teatro in Triana, leading to La Atalaya Tower - elevated and free from light pollution - ideal for stargazing. Amateur astronomer Carlos Castro will discuss the Milky Way before attendees enjoy the meteor shower and make wishes under a clear sky.

The route also promotes local Axarquia products and supports local charities, with a portion of the proceeds going to community causes. It’s a special night that not only celebrates nature’s wonders but also brings people together under the stars.

Nerja’s coastline.

“It’s a fantastic achievement for our town,” he remarked, emphasising the quality and appeal of

Mayor José Alberto Armijo couldn’t be prouder, highlighting Nerja’s leadership in the Eastern Axarquia for Blue Flags this season.

The journey began with the town regaining two Blue Flags in 2021 and has culminated in this year’s impressive tally of four.

This accolade not only boosts Nerja’s reputation as a premier tourist destination, but also highlights its commitment to environmental sustainability and beach quality.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Nerja’s beaches promise a first-class seaside experience that’s second to none.

Axarquia • Issue No. 2037 • 4 - 10 July 2024 FREE

GRATIS GRATIS

VRIJ LIVRE

G F E GRATIS GRATUIT S G

Water worries washed away.

Stargazing adventure awaits.

Image: Shutterstock/ Bilanol

Most Blue Flags on Axarquía’s coast.

Image: Shutterstock/ Tunatura

Images: Dave Boyne

Mighty pups

AS reported previously in the Euro Weekly News Torre del Mar’s beaches introduced the MasreQ, Unidad Canina de Emergencias (UCE) (Canine unit). These mighty pups and their dog trainer Miguel Sánchez-Mereciano have been turning heads as their superpowers are witnessed in action. The team features six amazing rescue dogs, including Newfoundlands Queen, Oso, and Mai, and Labradors Nancy, Brown, and Buddy. These dogs start training at just a few months old and are ready to save lives within a year. They can swim up to three nautical miles and drag up to two tons, making them incredible lifesavers. Each dog wears a special otation vest to stay safe in the water. Their daily routine includes rest in shaded areas with plenty of water to keep them cool and hydrated. Looking ahead, the UCE plans to grow and welcomes dog owners to join open training sessions on the beach in July. These sessions aim to boost rescue skills and help dogs who are afraid of water feel more comfortable. And remember whenever you’re in trouble just yelp for help!

Summer fun

TORROX is getting ready for an action-packed summer with loads of activities, parties, and outdoor fun as part of its ‘Vive el verano’ (live the summer) programme.

to join in from different areas.

off Torrox’s rich cultural heritage.

Mayor Óscar Medina, along with some local council members unveiled the town’s exciting lineup, promising the most jam-packed cultural agenda in Torrox’s history.

This summer’s highlights include the 40th-anniversary bash on July 27 and moving the popular food truck fest from El Morche to El Peñoncillo, making it easier for everyone

Top attractions include concerts by the Cultural Association ‘Vive la Música’ on July 16, 20, and August 4. August promises more excitement with the International Chorus and Dance Festival on August 3, plus outdoor movies at spots like Plaza Picasso and El Pontil.

Other must-see events include the Zambombas Villa de Torrox on July 24, the Flamenco Singing Competition ‘Con Duende’ on July 27, and the Virgin of the Snows festivities on August 5, all showing

Focusing on El Morche, there are major concerts like the Loona Summer Festival featuring Omar Montes on August 3, and upcoming festivals like the Granja’s Closing Summer and 90 Lovers festivals in August. The eagerly awaited El Morche Fair from August 14 to 18, ending with the classic Virgin of Carmen procession. With an exciting lineup lasting until September, Torrox invites locals and visitors to enjoy a summer packed with fun and community spirit.

Tourism trends

HOTELS along the Costa del Sol achieved an impressive 87.87 per cent occupancy in June, marking a nearly sixpoint increase from last year’s 82.12 per cent, reports the Costa del Sol Hoteliers Association (Aehcos). This rise, driven significantly by foreign tourists comprising 70 per cent of visitors, is bolstering economic impacts, with each guest spending an average of €149.46 per night, up 11.4 per cent from €134.14 last year.

Aehcos remains optimistic, forecasting a robust high season with expected occupancy rates exceeding 86 per cent for July and August, despite challenges like rising supply costs, infla-

tion, and interest rates. President José Luque anticipates further boosts from last-minute bookings, particularly by domestic tourists expected to increase their demand this summer.

Looking ahead, July is projected to see an 86.05 per cent occupancy, while August is anticipated to dip to 86.43 per cent from 88.44 per cent last year. The Frigiliana-Torrox area is predicted to maintain an 86.96 per cent occupancy in August.

Luque highlights these figures as encouraging for business prospects, reflecting stability in anticipated bookings compared to earlier predictions this June.

and their dog trainer Mi-

Summer vibes in Torrox town.

Image: Facebook/ Oscar Medina España

Lifesaving heroes on four legs!

Image: velezmalaga.es

No market

THE weekly flea market at Urb. Almijara in Nerja will not take place on Sunday, July 7 as the area will be used as parking for another event. The market will return on Sunday, July 14.

Defib map

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA enhances public safety with QR codes pinpointing defibrillator locations. Over 20 devices were identified in high-traffic zones. The town hall plans to hand out 1,000 magnets and QR vinyl for rapid access via Google Maps in emergencies.

Volunteer time

CUDECA is looking for summer volunteers to help out in their Hospice Charity Shops. For more information contact them by phone or WhatsApp on 0034 671 048 304 or by email voluntariado @cudeca.org.

Wine & Art

ANOTHER wine&art Nerja event will take place on July 13 at 7pm at Nerja Coworking, Plaza de España. Enjoy unlimited wine, snacks, and art supplies. Early bird tickets are only €39.60 with code JULY10.

Discover Canillas de Albaida

SITUATED in the heart of the Axarquia region in Malaga, Canillas de Albaida is a charming whitewashed village that epitomises the essence of Andalucian beauty and tranquillity. Perched on the foothills of the Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Natural Park, this picturesque village offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes.

Canillas de Albaida is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The village serves as a gateway to numerous hiking and cycling trails, including the popular GR-242 route, which takes you through verdant valleys, pine forests, and up to spectacular viewpoints. The Río Turvilla, a refreshing river that meanders through the countryside, provides a perfect spot for a picnic or a cool dip during the hot summer months.

Rich in history and culture, Canillas de Albaida boasts several historical landmarks. The Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, with its Mudejar architectural style, stands as a testament to the village’s rich heritage.

The village also celebrates traditional Andalucian festivals with great fervour, such as the annual Feria in August, which features music, dancing, and local gastronomy.

THE Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario is located in the heart of Canillas de Albaida. This charming church, built in the 16th century, is a stunning example of Mudejar architecture, blending Islamic and Christian design elements.

The church’s exterior, with its whitewashed walls and modest bell tower, complements the traditional Andalucian aesthetic of the village. Inside, visitors

Hiking trails

CANILLAS DE ALBAIDA is a paradise for hiking fans. The village serves as a perfect starting point for numerous trails that weave through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Natural Park.

The local cuisine is another highlight, offering delicious Andalucian dishes like gazpacho, migas, and a variety of tapas.

With its relaxing environment, welcoming locals, and rich culture, Canillas de Albaida is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored by those seeking an authentic Andalucian experience.

Village centre

are greeted by beautiful wooden ceilings and intricate altarpieces that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. The main altar, dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, is a focal point of devotion for the local community. Beyond its architectural beauty, the church plays a cen-

Global spotlight

CANILLAS DE ALBAIDA’S mayor, Encarnación Pareja, welcomed a group of tourism professionals from Malaga, including guides and tour operators from Germany, Iran, Britain, and the Polish operator Itaka.

The visit, part of the Andalucian Experience Innovation Project, showcased the town’s rich Andalucian heritage.

Organised by the Tourism Area of Mancomunidad Axarquia and

tral role in village life, hosting religious ceremonies, festivals, and community events. Visitors to Canillas de Albaida will find the Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario not only a place of worship, but also a testament to the village’s enduring historical and cultural significance.

Plan A, this initiative is funded by the EU’s NextGeneration recovery funds. Participants were impressed by the local charms and cultural legacy, gaining insights into promoting the region as a prime tourist destination.

The project, under the State Secretariat for Tourism, aligns with the European Union’s Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan.

This hands-on tour aimed to bolster Canillas de Albaida’s appeal, contributing to the broader effort of revitalising tourism in the region.

One of the most popular routes is the GR-242 trail, which o ers hikers a journey through lush valleys, pine forests, and rugged mountain terrain. This trail provides stunning panoramic views and an opportunity to experience the diverse ora and fauna of the region. Another favoured path is the circular route from Canillas de Albaida to Competa, a neighbouring village. This trail features charming olive groves, ancient terraces, and the serene Río Turvilla.

For a shorter hike, the route to the Puerto Blanquillo viewpoint o ers an easy ascent with rewarding views of the surrounding mountains and the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, the trails around Canillas de Albaida promise an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Andalucia.

publishes more content both online at

An Andalucian paradise.

Tourism experts discover Canillas de Albaida.

Community events

Grace Meredith

LUX MUNDI Ecumenical Centre in Torre del Mar invites the community to its vibrant lineup of activities this summer. Located at Avda. Moscatel 1, the centre opens its doors every Wednesday and Friday morning from 10am to 1pm. Their shop opens on Wednesday and Friday on the same timetable. Visitors can browse through a variety of household goods, spring and summer attire, shoes, handbags, and fashion accessories- all offered at attractive prices. Donations of gently used items are gratefully accepted during these hours.

Weekly events include Spanish practice groups on Wednesdays and Fridays, where participants engage in language learning within

small, focused groups.

Every Thursday afternoon, the centre hosts ‘Spanglish,’ promoting conversations between English and Spanish speakers. On Fridays, the popular coffee mornings provide a relaxing setting in the centre’s serene garden, from 11am to 1pm.

Looking ahead, Lux Mundi offers an exciting excursion on Thursday, July 11, to Montilla

Beach safety

Catherine McGeer

and Lucena. This day trip includes a guided tour of the historic Alvear Winery and an exploration of Lucena’s cultural landmarks. On Thursday, August 15 a trip to see the Almuñecar Fireworks has been lined up also. Tickets are available at the centre, offering a delightful opportunity to enjoy Andalucia’s heritage while supporting fundraising efforts.

THE beach safety system of Almuñecar and La Herradura has been launched. The team consists of 43 lifeguards equipped with boats, and two ambulances, and supported by the Guardia Civil, Local Police, Civil Protection, and a drone for monitoring jet skis.

Mayor Juanjo Ruiz Joya, alongside Beach councillor Lucía González and

security representatives, introduced the system.

The service, operational from July 1 until September 1, covers five main beaches with additional support for other areas. The drone will capture any misconduct by jet ski users and forward footage to the Guardia Civil for potential action.

IN Rincon de la Victoria, the town hall has partnered with the Official College of Veterinarians of Malaga to advance the welfare of urban feline colonies. This collaboration expands their existing programme with the implementation of the CER Method (Capture, Sterilisation, and Return), aimed at managing the local stray cat population responsibly.

Feline welfare

Mayor Francisco Salado and College President

Juan Antonio de Luque highlighted the partnership’s dual benefits: improving the lives of these animals and enhancing public health within the community. Participating veterinary centres will offer humane capture, surgical sterilisation, and return of stray cats to their habitats, along with essential health services like rabies vaccinations, microchipping, and deworming. Funded by a €10,000 annual budget from the locality, this initiative highlights their commitment to long-term population control and promoting harmonious coexistence. The initial agreement spans one year, with potential extensions of up to four years, ensuring sustained efforts and community education on responsible feline colony manage ment.

Summer fun with Lux Mundi.

Beach

STARTING July 1, the Almuñecar Local Council has implemented a traffic restriction on the Prieto Moreno promenade, also known as La Caletilla.

This measure, effective from 11pm to 7am, aims to reduce nighttime noise during the busy months of July and August. The local government decided to enforce this ban to mitigate noise pollution as per a

Zero waste Silent nights

report from the Sustainability Department.

Only authorised vehicles, residents with garage access, and emergency vehicles can use this route during restricted hours.

Additionally, from July 1 to August 31, parking regulations are reinforced on the sea-

front promenades of Almuñecar and La Herradura. Improved signage and payment options via the ‘parkinglibre’ app have been introduced to streamline the process. This seasonal parking regulation ensures residents and visitors’ better vehicle rotation and convenience.

Gastro event

ALMUÑECAR La Herradura celebrated a highly successful gastro event in London, showcasing the local area’s fusion of agriculture and tourism.

Spanish Ambassador to the UK, José Pascual Marco, joined influencers, journalists, and clients at the event.

Hosted by Almuñécar mayor Juan José Ruiz Joya and other local councillors the event promoted the region through its culinary skills.

Held at a central London restaurant, the event featured renowned Spanish chef José Pizarro alongside local chefs Sergio González and Carlos Martín.

They crafted a special menu highlighting local coastal delicacies like mango, avocado, and cherimoya, aiming to boost gastronomic tourism in the competitive London market.

The event, supported by the Tourism Board of Almuñecar and the local council, aims to attract

AXARAGUA has completed a project to achieve zero waste at the Torrox wastewater treatment plants, using 1.3 hm³ of reclaimed water. The works costing €50,000 were completed within a month.

The project, announced by Jorge Martín, president of Axaragua, alongside CEO Daniel Cívico and Torrox mayor Óscar Medina, in-

Londoners with authentic experiences, showcasing the region’s rich culinary traditions and promoting economic growth through local produce and tourism.

volved installing a new pumping station to connect the Manzano and Iara plants via a 5km pipeline. This ensures all reclaimed water is used for irrigation, benefiting five local farming communities.

Martín emphasised the importance of collaboration with local administrations and communities to safeguard natural resources and

support agriculture. He also highlighted the €55 million invested by the Junta de Andalucía in hydraulic works in Axarquia, which provides 19 hm³ of reclaimed water annually. Mayor Medina praised the public-private collaboration essential for local agriculture, which will significantly benefit from a reliable water supply in Axarquia.

Reclaimed water benefits all.

Image: Torrox Town Hall

Almuñecar-La Herradura shines in London.

Image: Almuñécar-La Herradura Town Hall

THE American International Club in Nerja is a small social club which arranges regular events and activities to raise money for local charities supporting the Spanish community. They are keen to attract more members to support the charitable effort so it would be appreciated if you could help in this endeavour.

Please do contact them if you would like any further information.

The monthly AIC ‘Menu del Dia’ held on Wednesday June 19 attracted 15 diners, a mixture of members and guests. Fourteen people cho-

Spain’s 1st AI stamp Social club

Royal British Legion

se the fabulous Menu del Dia offered by the Sherpa Nepalese and Indian restaurant in Torre del Mar. However one hungry member chose the very large mixed grill. Needless to say the lunch was a great social success and equally a value for money culinary experience.

There was also a bonus for the club as two new members were signed up.

If you would like to join them on their next culinary adventure, please contact them by email on hq@aicner ja.org.

ON Thursday June 6 the Riogordo branch of the Royal British Legion, held an event to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, at Arco Del Sol Restaurant, in Colmenar.

It was attended by nearly 50 members and guests. There was music, a Salsa dancing demonstration, a raffle and a great barbecue.

The branch raised €530 on the night with the generous support of all those who attended and support from Arco del Sol, Rumours, hair and beauty, Riogordo crafts, Stephen and Caroline Bishop, Mi-

D-DAY EVENT: The branch rasied €530 on the night.

les Eastwick, Hannah McEwen. With their donations to the raffle. for which they are most grateful for.

THE first postage stamp created by Artificial Intelligence in Spain has been designed in Velez-Malaga by the visual artist Rafael Moreno-Mata as part of his inaugural exhibit using this technology. The Post Office on Calle del Río in Velez-Malaga has become the focal point of an artistic and technological revolution with Spain’s first AI-generated stamp. This groundbreaking project, developed through Correos’ TU SELLO programme, re-

presents a unique fusion of advanced technology and art, marking a significant milestone in the country’s postal history.

Conceived by local artist Rafael Moreno-Mata, the postage stamp is not only a collectible item but also a window into the forefront of digital art.

The original artwork, measuring 1x1, will be displayed in large format alongside the stamp at the Post Office.

If anyone is interested in finding out more about the work of the Royal British Legion or becoming a member (you don’t have to have been in the armed forces to be a member). then please contact Peter by WhatsApp 633 125 681 or check out the RBL website for your nearest branch.

So how much?

A BIG MAC is a good price guide for telling you how far your euros will go when travelling abroad.

Speaking to Belgium’s VRT broadcaster, Belgian financial expert Chris Sugira said that a McDonald’s Big Mac is made in the same way with the same ingredients worldwide, but it does not cost the same owing to differently-priced ingredients, the cost of living and inflation.

“In Europe, a Big Mac costs around €5, but in Taiwan you pay just over €2,” Sugira pointed out. “This shows that €5 in Taiwan is worth more than €5 in Europe, giving you more or less of an idea of how much euros are worth in another country.”

He went on to explain that the Big Mac Index or Citizennomics was formulated by UK magazine The Economist in 1986 as

Un-boa-believeable

a way of measuring and comparing purchasing power between currencies.

It is updated twice yearly and can be consulted on The Economist’s website.

So where will you pay most for a Big Mac?

It is currently priciest in Switzerland, according to the January 2024 Big Mac Index, and costs €7. Taiwan where it sells for the equivalent of €2.2 is the cheapest.

MEET Ronaldo, the 6ft (1.8m) Brazilian rainbow boa who was iden tified as male by a vet nine years ago.

Living a solitary life without contact with other snakes for the past two years at City of Portsmouth College in the UK, Ronaldo surprised everyone recently.

During a routine vivarium check, a student made an astonishing discovery, Ronaldo had given birth to 14 baby snakes.

“We couldn’t believe our eyes,” exclaimed animal care technician Amanda McLeod.

Initially sceptical, they quickly realised the truth of the situation.

Peter Quinlan, a reptile specialist at the college, attributed this unexpected event to parthenogenesis, a rare form of asexual reproduction where embryos develop without fertilisation.

While known in plants and

rrences in snakes, especially Brazilian rainbow boas, are exceptionally rare.

Ronaldo’s pregnancy marks only the third documented case in captivity for this species globally.

Reflecting on the surprise, Quinlan, with over 50 years of snake breeding experience, admitted, “I’ve never known this happen before.”

He noted Ronaldo’s slightly enlarged appearance prior to the birth, reminiscent of having consumed a large meal, but the thought of pregnancy never crossed their minds.

Now faced with the task of determining the sex of the baby snakes, Quinlan is busy setting up individual enclosures and seeking suitable homes for each offspring.

Photo credit: CC/Go Ikeda

Worried about money

FINNS’ financial confidence has plunged to an all-time low according to a Danske Bank survey.

The Copenhagen-based bank’s Financial Peace of Mind Index revealed that financial confidence has dropped by 0.1 points in Finland, which received a score of 5.9 out of a possible 10.

Meanwhile, the index score rose by between 0.1 and 0.2 in other Nordic countries, led Denmark’s 6.6, with Norway close on 6.3, followed by Sweden (6.1).

In 2023, Sweden tied with Finland at the bottom of the Danske Bank index, but has left its neighbour behind this year.

Finns are increasingly concerned about their economic situation, according to the survey which was carried out during a period that coincided with the country’s Budget and extensive discussions on adjustments to public finance, spending cuts and tax hikes.

“Danske Bank has studied the financial peace of mind of Nordics since 2018 and Finns have consistently ranked the lowest,” the bank’s Finland manager Jens Wiklund said.

Impact of AI on ‘Dr Google’

AI aiding self-diagnosis.

“Now, the gap between Finland and the other Nordic countries is growing even wider.”

THERE may be mixed thoughts on the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI), but self-diagnosis is one area where it is likely to have a significant impact.

So many of us now turn to ‘Dr Google’ when we experience health symptoms, hoping to ascertain what is wrong and avoid the need to visit a doctor.

instant feedback. Imagine a chatbot that can ask the right questions to understand detailed symptoms. Then, record an accurate diagnosis using the gleaned information and its ability to assimilate huge quantities of data in real-time.

However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations of self-diagnosis. According to the Journal of Medical Internet Research, 34 per cent of self-diagnosed cases are incorrect.

All this is set to change with the introduction of new generative AI chatbots, which have access to vast amounts of medical literature. In this way, ‘Dr Google’ is already becoming a reality, whereby patients can describe their symptoms to an AI chatbot and receive

One company that has made a significant breakthrough in bringing self-diagnosis to fruition is Docus. Their AI-powered health platform permits users to chat with an AI health assistant, generate health reports, and get second opinions from top doctors in the US and Europe.

In building the business model this way, the founders identified the need to underpin online/ real-time diagnosis with human-supervised validation. It seems that the way forward is a more collaborative mix of human and technological skills.

Reach for the stars

CZECH Prime Minister Petr Fiala has launched the Czech Journey to Space programme, saying “Together we can reach for the stars.”

This means that after almost 50 years, the government is ready to send a second man into space and he has been revealed as Czech ghter pilot, Aleš Svoboda, a member of the European Space Agency’s astronaut reserve.

It will probably take about ve years before the Astronaut makes the journey into space but it is a de nite commitment on behalf of the Czech government.

The Prime Minister explained “We will involve Czech companies, scientists and students in the process. We see this as a great opportunity for our economy, defence, academia, but also everyday life. The success of this mission will be a signi cant step for the future direction of our country.”

Czech companies will be involved in the development of this programme which will in turn see the economy of the Czech Republic pro ting from the discoveries made.

Interestingly, it is reported that the Space Agency suggested that Aleš

Svoboda could have been sent into space last year, but at that time it was considered that the cost to the government was prohibitive.

Perhaps stung by the fact that other, similarly sized, members of the European Space Agency such as Austria, Belgium and Denmark could a ord to participate and are bene ting from the development of space technologies, money will be found to support this future mission.

Sales tax on olive oil

Talyta Franca, Class 2026, Northwestern University in Qatar SPAIN has announced a bold step to support consumers by eliminating the sales tax on olive oil.

This action is a response to a dramatic 272 per cent increase in olive oil prices since September 2020, as reported by Spain’s agriculture ministry. The initiative aims to alleviate the nancial strain on households struggling with increasing food costs.

Spain, as the world’s largest producer and exporter of olive oil, faces an unprecedented price rise exacerbated by global ination and a severe drought that devastated olive crops.

The cost of a ve-litre bottle now exceeds €50 in supermarkets across the country, prompting con-

cerns over a ordability and dietary shifts among consumers.

The government had previously reduced the sales tax from 10 per cent to 5 per cent as part of broader anti-in ation measures.

With no sales tax on olive oil until September, policymakers expect to stabilise prices and ensure

continued access to this essential Mediterranean product.

According to the Spanish Treasury Minister María Jesús Montero, the government’s action emphasises “the importance of olive oil in the Mediterranean diet and a healthy lifestyle.”

This move aligns with e orts in neighbouring Mediterranean countries, such as Greece and Italy, facing similar challenges in olive oil a ordability and consumption patterns.

The decision is expected to provide relief to Spanish residents and safeguard cultural and dietary practices connected to olive oil consumption, a pillar of Spanish cuisine and identity.

Prime Minister Fiala is committed to space travel.

Credit: Petr Fiala X

Olive oil display on Spanish supermarket shelves.

Credit: Bryan Allison, Flickr

QUIRKY TOWN

Discovering Spain

THE Great Lisbon earthquake occurred in 1755 and the tremor was felt in the city of Salamanca across the border in Spain.

At the time, crowds rushed to the cathedral convinced that this was the start of the Apocalypse and the end of the world.

In the event, no-one was injured although the tower of the cathedral started to lean slightly.

The council that managed the cathedral declared that from then on, once a year, someone should climb to the top of the cathedral to ring the bells in thanksgiving to God for this miraculous event.

A family which lived inside the cathedral, Los Mariquelos were tasked with this duty which they diligently undertook for more than two centuries, before the last member of the family died in 1976.

No-one stepped into the breach until 1985 when Ángel Rufino de Haro decided to take up the tradition again and inherited the name of El Mariquelo and from then on he has taken on the role.

Dressed as a charro (a Mexican style cowboy) he climbs the 110 metre tall

tower on October 31 to play a charrada (a country dance) on his bagpipes and tambourine, thanking god and praying for peace and good causes.

As he grows older, so El Mariquelo has to ensure that he remains fit and capable of making what is potentially a dangerous climb, but his dedication to keeping this tradition alive ensures that there is always a large group of visitors applauding his strenuous efforts.

Red Spanish Steps

ACTIVISTS from the group Bruciamo Tutto (Let’s Burn Everything) staged a protest at Rome’s iconic Spanish Steps, pouring red paint down the landmark’s 135 steps.

Their actions were a direct message against Italy’s alarming femicide rate. Tourists watched as protesters dipped their hands in the paint, symbolising blood, and left vivid handprints on the monument.

The protest was sparked by the killing of 22-year-old Giulia Cecchettin and the ongoing femicide cases in Italy. According to Ansa’s study, at least 109 women were killed in Italy in 2023, with over half murdered by a partner or ex-partner.

Giulia’s brutal murder by her possessive ex-boyfriend Filippo Turetta has deeply

shocked Italy. The body of the biomedical engineering student was found near a lake after she had been missing for a week.

The incident, extensively covered in Italian media, boosted a national dialogue on violence against women. Despite Venice prosecutors closing their investigation into Turetta, public outrage persists as charges remain pending.

Alongside the paint,

activists distributed leaflets addressing the names of women who lost their lives this year, many to partners. Several protesters were detained by authorities, according to AP. Sanitation crews quickly washed away the paint to preserve the tourist attraction that was an international stage for films like ‘Roman Holiday’ and ‘Mission Impossible - Dead Reckoning’.

Credit: El Mariquelo Facebook

El Mariquelo praying from the clock tower.

Police stops activists pouring red paint on Rome’s Spanish Steps.

Credit: Lapresse via AP

AXARQUÍA - MÁLAGA EAST

Flamenco Maestro

Catherine McGeer

RENOWNED Flamenco prodigy

EL AMIR will grace the SCIROCCO Centro Inter-Cultural in Alcaucin on Saturday July 6. Famed for his masterful guitar skills and emotive performances, EL AMIR promises an evening of journeying through the soulful landscapes of Andalucia. The event begins at 8pm with a delectable buffet, followed by the concert at 9.30pm, and finishes with a disco that starts at midnight.

EL AMIR’s musical skills have earned him global acclaim, including accolades such as the Global Music Award and nominations for the Latin Grammy. His collaborations range from Hollywood’s Hans Zimmer to iconic names like Stanley Clarke and Marcus Miller. His influence extends

to film soundtracks such as ‘SpongeBob 3’ and ‘No Time to Die.’ Audiences are invited to experience the depth of Flamenco of Flamenco, where every note resonates with passion and tradition.

Admission to this event is by donation (€12-20), with a special rate of €1 per year of age for children aged

six and above. Additionally, access to the buffet is available by reservation only, priced at €15. Due to limited seating, early reservations are highly recommended on 0034 624 607 810.

For more details, visit EL AMIR’s official website at mundo-flamenco. com.

Unforgettable concert Beach Festival

ON Tuesday, July 9, at 9pm, the prestigious Cologne Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at the Villa de Torrox Municipal Theatre. Attendees can look forward to an unforgettable concert featuring masterful pieces by renowned composers. The programme includes Vivaldi’s Violin Concerto in F minor ‘Winter’ and Flute Concerto in G minor ‘La Notte,’ Bellini’s Baritone Aria ‘Il Molino Vi ravviso,’ Manuel de Falla’s Popular Spanish Songs for cello and orchestra, Paganini’s ‘Carnival of Venice’ for violin and orchestra, and Francois Borne’s Brilliant Fantasy on themes from Bizet’s Carmen for flute. The concert will showcase talented artists such as Sergey Dideronko on violin, Dmitrij Gornowskij on cello, Mirta Gonzáles on flute, and Jaime R. Segrelles as the baritone. Tickets cost €22 to reserve tickets call 902 646 289, visit mientrada.janto.es, or purchase at the box office, which opens at 7.30pm on the day of the concert at Av. Isaac Albéniz, 3. Secure your spot and enjoy a night filled with music and emotion with the Cologne Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra.

THE Reggaeton Beach Festival (RBF) 2024 is set to make waves in Nerja, marking its debut in this coastal town on July 6 and 7. Known for its vibrant celebration of urban music, this year’s event promises an enhanced experience with a sprawling stage measuring over 45 by 22 metres, an integrated DJ booth, and a massive 8K screen spanning over 400 square metres. International stars such as Anuel AA, Justin Quiles, Bryant Myers, and

more are headlining the festival, alongside top-tier DJs like Ballesteros and Juanjo García. The lineup reflects RBF’s commitment to delivering a cutting-edge musical spectacle. Beyond music, attendees can enjoy an innovative activity area featuring attractions, gaming zones, and water-based activities. The venue, situated right by the sea, boasts over 20,000 square metres of artificial turf, complemented by free drinking water fountains. Directors of RBF emphasised their commitment to a daytime format (from 4pm to midnight), respecting local residents’ sleep schedules. Economic studies indicate the festival’s substantial impact, exceeding €6 million, benefiting local businesses. Tickets for RBF 2024 are available with a discount of 50 per cent for Nerja and Maro residents, reflecting the festival’s commitment to local support.

Flamenco dreams

THE Frigiliana Town Hall presents its upcoming show: ‘Mi Sueño Flamenco,’ (My Flamenco Dream)

The performance will take place on July 7 at the Patio del Apero. Recently at the Frigiliana Town Hall courtyard, the show was unveiled. The event featured Carmen Cerezo, the Culture councillor; Ángela Muñoz, director of the Ángela Muñoz Dance Academy; and Lidia Acosta, responsible for the promotional artwork. The event is scheduled for Sunday, July 7, at 10.00pm in the Patio del Apero, Frigiliana.

Tickets are priced at €10 and can be purchased in advance at the Ángela Muñoz Academy and the

Tourist Office of the town/ ‘Mi Sueño Flamenco’ celebrates Ángela Muñoz’s 15 years as a teacher in Frigiliana. The performance will showcase various flamenco styles Muñoz has taught at her academy over the years.

The artists performing include Ana Jiménez, Carmela Carrasco, Walter Algarín, Manuel Yunke, Carlos Leal, and the Flamenco Ángela Muñoz troupe. Lidia Acosta, renowned in Málaga province for her artistry, designed the promotional artwork based on a photograph of Professor Ángela Muñoz.

Image: Scirocco Centro de Cultura

Image: Facebook/ Los Quintana

Image: Facebook/ RBF

Image: Frigiliana Town Hall

A Grand Opening for Torrox Hub: Celebrating community and growth

WE are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Torrox Hub’s new and expanded premises on Friday, July 5, from 12 noon to 3pm.

This special event is our way of saying thank you to the wonderful community of Torrox and Spain for the incredible support we’ve received since our inception in early 2022. Everyone is welcome to join us for this celebratory occasion, featuring complimentary refreshments, free gifts, and amazing special offers from our internet suppliers. We are also delighted to have JoJo and Bambi from ‘Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun’ joining the festivities!

Torrox Hub was founded with a simple mission: to support and serve our community.

Little did we know that in just two short years, we would grow from

a small shop to a store five times its original size, complete with our first employee!

This growth is a testament to the trust and loyalty of our customers, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.

Our services have always been about more than just business. From managing PO boxes and sending parcels to arranging internet and SIM cards, printing services, and assisting with residency applications, we strive to be a reliable and supportive resource for our community.

Beyond our core services, we are especially proud of our community pantry initiative. With generous donations from locals, we help ensure that those in need have access to food and essential supplies.

Colin and Sam Fintz established

Torrox Hub with the goal of making a posi tive impact on our community. As we open our new premises, we reflect on how far we’ve come and how much more we hope to achieve.

Our commitment to our customers remains unwavering, and we look forward to continuing to grow and serve you with the same dedication and passion.

Join us on July 5 for our grand opening celebration. Let’s come together to celebrate not just the success of Torrox Hub, but the strength and spirit of our incredible community. Here’s to many

more years of growth, support, and shared success.

Thank you, Torrox, for being part of our journey. We couldn’t have done it without you.

Warm regards, Colin Fintz and Sam Fintz

IRELAND

RTE makeover

NATIONAL broadcaster RTE will cut 400 jobs through a €50 million redundancy programme over the next five years as it aims to obtain a €20 million government bailout. At present, personnel costs account for 51 per cent of operating costs and RTE hopes to reduce this to 45 per cent by 2029.

Off the hook

A WOMAN of 44, who made a false insurance claim for more than €35,000 after staging a sham collision with another vehicle, was spared jail and her threeyear sentence was suspended in full. She had pleaded guilty, explaining that she needed cash after her son was paralysed in a separate but serious road accident.

FRANCE

Nasty memento

A RECORD number of dengue fever cases were reported during the first six months of 2024, with at least 2,666 people returning from abroad with the disease. Just over three-quarters of the cases, which can prove fatal if not treated, were found to originate in the Caribbean islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe.

Going nuclear

PARIS start-up company Jimmy Energy is studying a project that would use a small nuclear reactor to provide heat for a Cristal Union sugar refinery. Reactors like these could eventually provide low-carbon energy for factories whose industrial activities needed fossil fuels, particularly gas, in the past.

ITALY

Tit-for-tat

ITALY’S media were included in the European sites that can no longer be accessed from Russia in response to the EU’s decision to block Russia’s Ria Novosti, Izvestia and Rossiyskaya Gazeta. State broadcaster Rai, the La7 television channel and the La Repubblica and La Stampa newspapers are all affected.

Storm surge

FIREFIGHTERS were called out on 30 rescue operations after the River Secchia in the Emilia Roma region burst its banks during severe storms and torrential rain on the night of June 25. There was damage to infrastructure and agriculture while occupants of homes built on the area’s flood plains had to be evacuated.

EURO PRESS

FINLAND

Berry safe

THE Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) found that traces of radioactivity from 1950s and 1960s nuclear tests, as well as the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, remained in Finland’s environment but did not pose health risks. The country’s wild lingonberries, cloudberries and bilberries are safe to eat, STUK said.

NORWAY

Safety first

MORE AND ROMSDAL County Council decided to close the winding Trollstigen mountain road until the end of 2024 following six rockfalls in 10 days. After geologists inspected the road, which did not reopen until June 7, the authorities decided closing it was essential before someone was seriously, or fatally, hurt.

Icon for sale

OSLO City Hall is selling the capital’s emblematic Tryvannstarnet radio tower that was built on a hilltop above the city in 1962 and funded by the city, the military, the original state telephone company and Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK). The tower is valued at anywhere between 14 and 42 million krone (€1.9 and €3.7 million).

DENMARK

Happy here

THE latest YouGov Eurotrack survey carried out in Denmark, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the US revealed that many of the participants took a negative view of their country. Denmark was the exception, where 47 per cent believed that their homeland was in a better state than other western nations.

In the saddle

MUNICIPAL and national bicycle lanes will receive 334 million kroner (€44.8 million) in government funding for 69 projects that include five new lanes split between Zealand and Jutland. Transport minister Thomas Danielson noted that fewer people now cycled and said that a countrywide strategy would address the issue.

No radioactivity present, STUK confirmed.

Ultrafine line

RESEARCH by environmental group ZERO found that living near Lisbon airport increased the risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes and dementia. ZERO cited the ultrafine particles emitted by aircraft, which an EU study has linked to the health issues of people living near Europe’s 32 busiest airports.

Water lost

THE Algarve lost 25 million cubic metres of the water in its domestic distribution network in 2022, enough for half the area’s families, the Deco Proteste consumer group said, due to ageing or inadequate infrastructure. Concessionary companies did not spend enough on stemming water losses, DECO maintained.

SWEDEN

Bargain offer

GOTEN (population 5,000) hopes to attract more residents by offering land for one krona (€0.08) per square metre to compensate for its low birth rate and an ageing population. Without clarifying whether Swedish residency or nationality were required, local mayor Johan Mansson said “absolutely everyone” was welcome.

Swift turnover

TAYLOR SWIFT’S three Stockholm concerts last May boosted the city’s economy by 848 million kronor (€75.46 million) in tourist spending and another 431 million kronor (€37.9 million) in taxes, city hall figures revealed. In all, 131,000 tourists visited Stockholm for the US singer’s three performances.

GERMANY

PORTUGAL BELGIUM NETHERLANDS

En route

THE Vatican has released the official logos for Pope Francis’s visit to Belgium and Luxembourg in late September. The logo for Belgium, where Francis will visit three cities, features a stylised map of the country with figures of different ages and cultures and the motto ‘En route avec Esperance’ (Travelling in Hope).

Website

A SPECIES of the Nurscia Albomaculata spider, never seen before in Belgium, was spotted on a verge next to the Brussels Orbital motorway in Brabant. The Natuurpunt association suggested the spider, which was less than one centimetre long, probably arrived on a car, lorry or coach from southern Europe.

Counting up

A CENSUS published on June 25 revealed a population of 82.7 million, 2.5 million more than the 2011 census, but 1.4 million fewer than expected, the Federal Statistics Office said. The shortfall was most pronounced amongst the 10.9 million foreign population, whose total was around one million lower than believed.

Not wanted

CABINET ministers gave the go-ahead to a draft law making it easier to send individuals who express support for terrorism back to countries like Afghanistan and Syria, despite undemocratic conditions there. The move is a reaction to the online hate posts that applauded the Hamas attack on Israel and other terrorist violence.

Honesty pays

A HOMELESS man who found a wallet containing €2,000 and handed it to the police received an award at the time, plus countless offers of help. Hadjer AlAli has now set up a GoFundMe account that has raised more than €30,000 and which he intends to use to rent a house and put his life on the right course.

Night flights

AMSTERDAM City Hall has decided to take a tougher stance on Schiphol airport and wants flights reduced to a maximum of 400,000 flights each year, 40,000 fewer than were proposed in December 2023. The city authorities also want all flights halted between 11pm and 7am and a ban on all private jets.

LINGONBERRIES:

Scammers arrested INTRODUCTION

John Smith

EUROPOL, the organisation that helps coordinate police activities across borders has just revealed that 54 Spanish phone fraudsters have been arrested.

This was a joint operation between the Spanish National Police, Mossos d’Esquadra (Catalonia) and the Portuguese Judicial Police (Policía Judiciária) which culminated with raids across the Iberian Peninsula on June 4. Investigators had discovered that at least 84 elderly victims had be -

tween them lost at least €2.5 million to these alleged criminals who started by calling them on the phone, pretending to be bank officials and then ended up on their doorsteps.

The fraudsters would take debit or credit cards, obtain PIN and bank details whilst in some cases, the criminals also forced their way into the victims’ homes, stealing cash and valuables such as jewellery.

Money that had been stolen was then transferred to different bank accounts in Por -

tugal and Spain and on the day of the raids, one suspect was caught sitting in front of his computer with the bank details of one of his victims up on the screen.

As investigators closed in on the suspects and monitored their conversations, they heard them planning to use extreme violence as a last resort to rob the victims.

Forty suspects were taken into custody in Spain, and three are being detained in Portugal whilst awaiting extradition to Spain.

Hello dear readers

I AM thrilled and honoured to kick off my new column, ‘From Coast to Coast’, where I’ll share insights, stories, and a dash of wit from an American who’s proudly called the Costa del Sol home since 2005. Originally from the sunny shores of the Pacific coast, I bring a Californian zest to this vibrant region and can’t wait to connect with fellow Americans and internationals through this platform.

How did I end up here? By a stroke of luck, I founded my company in Spain in 2006, possibly the country’s first online language academy. Since then, I’ve partnered with dedicated educators worldwide to provide top-notch education to students globally, with a special nod to our beloved Spaniards.

Over a decade spent with my former Sevillian in-laws, I’ve picked the nuances of Spanish culture and the secret phrases that win over locals. From handy local expressions like ‘quillo’, ‘‘ta logo’,

and ‘un manchao po favó’, navigating daily life has become second nature. Join me in ‘From Coast to Coast’ as I uncover hidden coastal gems, decode day-to-day customs, and explore cultural insights that enrich our Spanish experience. With a keen eye for humour and a knack for adaptation, I’ll unravel the intricacies of embracing foreignness with grace, wit, and a healthy dose of optimism.

Thank you for considering my column as part of your reading repertoire (or not). I’m excited to embark on this journey with you and look forward to sharing stories that resonate with us all.

Here’s to embracing new adventures and laughter ‘From Coast to Coast’! Cheers to the relentless power of ‘Guiringness’.

Lucca Movaldi, President, American International Club Marbella

See my new column on page 24

Announcement of the operation and arrests.

Credit: Mossos d’Esquadra X

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Big payday

BRITISH banker Christopher Willcox runs Japanese finance mammoth Nomura’s wholesale bank in New York, overseeing all its operations. He received a $12 million (€11.22 million) pay packet for the year ending March 2024 after returning the bank to profit, giving him a pay packet tripling his Japanese boss’s.

Getting bigger

GRUPO IFA, a central purchasing group consisting of 6,448 supermarkets in Spain as well as others in Portugal and Italy, reported a record turnover of €39.4 billion in 2023, a 9.2 per cent increase on 2022. Sales in Spain accounted for €18.17 billion of the total, an increase of 9.3 per cent on the previous year.

Fine line

APPROXIMATELY 95,000 workers were fined by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) even though they did not owe any tax. Those earning less than £12,570 (€14,860) do not have to pay income tax but they were penalised for submitting late selfassessments for the 20212022 tax year, accountancy firm RSM revealed.

Madrid deal

REAL ESTATE asset manager Azora, which is based in Spain but operates throughout Europe and the US, paid €30 billion for a building in Madrid’s Calle Doctor Esquerdo from Macqaurie subsidiary GLL Real Estate Partners. Currently used as offices, it is likely to become a hotel, market sources said.

Protein direct

MIKE ASHLEY’S Frasers Group has bought a portfolio of luxury brand websites, including Coggles clothing, from the third-party online retailer THG for an undisclosed sum. Under the deal, Frasers will now be able to sell the online health and beauty retailer’s Nutrition protein products in Sports Direct shops.

STAT OF WEEK

in estimated income next season for Europe’s football leagues headed by the UK, and followed by Germany, Spain, Italy and France, according to auditors Deloitte.

Tunnel company goes Dutch

A COMPANY ready to convert subterranean tunnels below High Holborn into a tourist attraction, no longer intends to float in London.

London Tunnels will now raise £30 million (€35.5 million) by listing on Euronext Amsterdam, with all the advantages of Europe’s equity and capital market.

The announcement was unexpected, City insiders said, as London Tunnels presented documents to the London Stock Exchange (LSE) in January with details of it plans.

It was fitting that the unique tunnels “built by the British government

for the defence of Britain” should be listed in London, the company’s chief executive Angus Murray said at the time.

The passages 40 metres below High Holborn were built in the 1940s as air raid shelters during the Blitz in the Second World War

PASCUAL is restructuring the group, splitting it into four subsidiaries in a bid to compete with supermarket own-labels.

The group, which posted sales of €841 million in 2022, the last year with available figures, plans to market Bezoya and the mineral waters that accounted for 19 per cent of Pascual’s revenues that year via Agua Sierra de Guardarrama.

The milk products that the public automatically associates with the company and which generate 75 per cent of the group’s sales, will be handled by Lacteos de Fuentemizarra. Coffee Horeca will be respon-

Dividend possibility

IAG could reinstate dividends as early as this year although no details were given at the annual shareholders meeting in Madrid on June 26.

The airline owns British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling and currently hopes to persuade Brussels to approve its purchase of Air Europa,. IAG last paid a dividend in 2019, not long before aircraft were grounded worldwide owing to the pandemic and all travel was restricted.

but were never used for this purpose. Instead, they housed the Special Operations Executive, a branch of MI6.

Decades later, during the Cold War, they were used as an international telephone exchange.

London Tunnels’ decision to snub the LSE fo-

llows the exit of FlutterPaddy Power owner - to list in the US, along with UK chip designer Arm. These disappointments were compensated by the recent London float of Raspberry Pi although Chinese clothing giant Shein’s £50 billion (€59.1 billion) LSE plans have yet to be confirmed.

Reuters reported that Shein had filed papers with the Financial Conduct Authority in early June although some sources close to the process claim that this could be cancelled as Beijing is “concerned” about the way Shein is viewed in the UK.

Taking on the own-labels

Growing season

SPAIN’S economy grew by 0.8 per cent during the first quarter of 2024, instead of the predicted 0.7 per cent.

This was the best figure since the second quarter of 2022, the National Statistics Institute (INE) announced on June 25.

The increase was due principally to greater household spending, which rose by 0.4 per cent, INE said. Imports climbed by 2.2. per cent during the first three months of 2023, but exports went up to 3.3 per cent during this time and public administration spending dropped by 0.6 per cent.

Along the same lines, S&P Global’s latest Eurozone Economic Outlook Q3 report said that “Spain, noticeably, continues to beat expectations.”

sible for coffee products following Pascual’s acquisition of Café Jurado in 2022 as well as its own Mocay brand.

Pascual’s dairy farms in Fuentespina (Burgos) now become Granjas de La Ribera.

Company chairman Tomas Pascual Gomez-Cuetara explained that these changes answered the need to give the company “more agility, flexibility and focus” as it takes on the supermarkets’ own-label products.

Going elsewhere

SPAIN is Europe’s leading car manufacturer after Germany, although 90 per cent of the 2.45 million vehicles leaving its factories in 2023 were destined for export.

Spanish vehicle manufacturers’ association, Anfa, said that only 30 per cent of the remaining 10 per cent that were bought in Spain last year were made here.

The Morocco-made Dacia Sandero was the most popular car in Spain with 13,068 models sold in 2023, while the Toyota Corolla, made in the UK, was second with 10,197.

The Seat Ibiza, whose only factory is located in Barcelona’s Martorell plant, was third, with 9,202 models sold.

STELLANTIS, which owns the Vauxhall, Peugeot and Citroen names, called on the UK government to provide more help for electric vehicle (EV) makes.

Maria Grazia Davino, UK managing director, said that the company did not want to cease operations in Britain but she warned that Stellantis could close its Luton and Ellesmere Port plants unless there was greater demand. Britain also needed to “loosen” regulations, Davino said. “The demand is not coming. We expect the government whoever it is to respond to this.”

A HOLLYWOOD theme park on the site of a former brickworks outside Bedford could boost the economy by an expected £50 billion (€59.1 billion).

Universal’s parks division, which acquired the site covering 480 acres (194 hectares) in December 2023, said the theme park would generate £35.1 billion (€41.5 billion) during construction and the first 20 years of operations.

Added to this, the film studio said, the project would contribute up to £14.1 billion (€16.6 billion) in taxes paid to the Treasury during the same period.

ONLINE electrical goods retailer AO World’s profits rose to £34.3 million (€40.5 million) over the year that ended on March 30, 2024. This was 186 per cent more than the £12 million (€14.18 million) posted in 2023 thanks in part to continuing sales of air fryers as well as more demand for tumble dryers during a very wet UK winter.

Television sales also increased as people bought new models in preparation for this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament, AO World said.

HOLBORN TUNNELS: Soon to be converted into tourist attraction.

Photo credit: CC/John Pannell

Photo credit: Calidad Pascual TOMAS PASCUAL: Group will become more flexible and focused.

690,20 693,80 689,00 1,75M

213,44 210,80 6,97M

8.392,0 8.274,0 29,25K

477,45 481,95 477,30 3,87M

313,80 317,00 313,30 1,6M

721,40 730,60 718,01 569,68K

12.300,0 12.382,0 12.278,0 86,57K

2.024,00 2.039,20 2.024,00 125,08K

4.292,0 4.342,0 4.283,0 167,26K

3.591,00 3.657,00 3.572,00 293,3K

137,90 139,85 137,80 4,02M

Group 3.048,00 3.096,00 3.040,42 92,39K

717,60 736,20 717,20 269,18K

308,70 310,40 307,20 2,23M

2.511,5 2.474,5 387,29K

1.876,00 1.899,00 1.874,00 21,18K

2.994,0 3.010,0 2.987,0 88,51K

1.204,00 1.212,00 1.196,00 111,91K

1.363,5 1.379,0 1.355,5 162,95K

Euro

EUR/GBP: Down from £0.85 to £0.84

EUR/USD: Down from $1.08 to $1.06

The euro faced significant selling pressure over the past month. The bulk of these losses coming after French President Emmanuel Macron shocked markets by calling a snap election in the wake of the European elections.

Macron’s gamble sent shockwaves through Europe, amid fears a ‘cohabitation’ with Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party could derail Macron’s final years in office and disrupt any attempts at passing needed economic reforms

Before the fallout of the European elections the euro was actually able to find some support, with an uptick in inflation and a hawkish rate cut from the European Central Bank (ECB) both underpinning

Currency outlook: Euro rocked by French political uncertainty, pound firms as markets trim BoE rate cut bets

EUR sentiment at the start of June.

The euro could face some turbulence in the weeks ahead as the people of France go to the polls. If we see a strong performance by the far right expect to see the single currency test new lows.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Up from €1.17 to €1.18

GBP/USD: Unchanged at $1.26

The pound trended broadly higher over the past four weeks, with the currency stri-

king new multi-month highs against both the euro and US dollar.

This comes as the odds for a Bank of England (BoE) interest rate cut in June plummeted to almost zero after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s surprise election announcement.

After peaking in response to solid UK wage growth figures, Sterling began to relinquish some of it gains as we entered the second half of June, as GBP investors grew increasingly confident in pricing in an August rate cut from the BoE. Looking ahead, the UK elec-

tion at the start of July may potentially trigger some volatility at the start of July. While Labour is widely expected to form the next government, the size of its majority could impact Sterling sentiment.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Unchanged at $0.78

USD/EUR: Up from €0.91 to €0.93

The US dollar traded in a wide range over the past month amid some mixed US economic data.

While the latest US payroll

figures smashed expectations, a weaker-than-expected GDP and inflation acted as headwinds. The uneven data lead to some notable swings in USD as investors repeatedly repriced their Federal Reserve rate cut bets.

Going forward, USD investors are likely to keep a close eye on upcoming data as they seek to gauge whether a September rate cut is on the cards. A particular focus is likely to be placed on June’s inflation figures, with the US dollar poised to tumble if this cements bets for a rate cut at the end of summer.

Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

Heaven help us all

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

WOULDN’T it be nice if just for once we could usher in a new month with a modicum of common sense? Ha! Dream on everyone. Only in the UK could headlines warning of a possible new Mid East war, or millions of hectares being destroyed in uncontrollable Australian bush fires, be shared with the same front pages informing the nation that veganism must now be considered to be on a par with religion!

Apparently a judge has ruled that ‘ethical’ vegans should be protected under the same rules that apply to religious and philosophical beliefs. Yep, yet another minority group will now have attained the right to accuse the beleaguered majority of some unfair ‘victimisation’ or another.

Greta Thunberg arrested

rest out the remainder of his days in some form of residential retirement facility – and what more proof did you need? In fact his waffling and stuttering was so awful, that to win the debate, Trump hardly had to say anything at all. Millions of Americans, including his own party, now consider he should resign.

Well, what another week that truly was. I couldn’t help but utterly admire the member of the Sunak/Starmer debate audience that had the valiant attitude to stand up and ask these two pinnacles of political parody if they really were two of the best the country had to offer? Well done that man. What a perfect pair of pillocks they both represented as they actually tried to waffle out of that one. As for an intelligent debate, I’ve had better political discussions down the local pub.

And of course the foray of the debaters didn’t end there. I made a point of catching most of the Trump/ Biden stratagems and they truly had to be seen to be believed. For the last couple of years I’ve been saying Biden, obviously suffering from dementia, should be gently led away to

How long will it be I wonder, before one of these plant eaters manage to drag a ‘disgusting’ carnivore into court for displaying some form of veganophobia? I truly do respect the views of my vegan friends, but please don’t try to make the majority of us feel bad for eating what some of you colourfully describe as ‘dead animals.’ It’s a nice pork chop or a sizzling T-bone. Awright? Just as a matter of interest, it is also a proven fact that plants do actually have feelings as well. Looks like starvation time ahead folks.

Funny how this ol’ columnist, who a (very) small group of readers, still consider an out of touch bigot; should have reached this conclusion some two years ago. This archaic, so called leader of the free world, is merely a front for the atrocious Vice President who, along with her White House devotees and his power happy wife, have finally pushed the whole dangerous exercise much too far.

In the coming elections Trump will sail in with gusto, while in the UK Starmer and his bunch of pirates will also surge home; in a portside propelled leaky boat with more holes in it than an oxidised colander. Heaven help us all.

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.

INTERVIEW

Speaking European –Kiki Groot

Kiki moved from Holland to Javea without ever visiting it before but she has not regretted her decision.

KIKI used to lead a peaceful life in a small Dutch town but had later moved to Am sterdam to comple te her studies and couldn’t get used to the cold and the hustle.

“Living in Amsterdam, I missed the nature and peace of the country; and it was very expensive too,” she shared.

Kiki moved to Javea just in October of 2023, after a friend in Amsterdam, whose family has a home in Javea, recommended her the coastal town for its tranquil atmosphere.

ning. Here, I go to the beach every day, I enjoy nature and getting together with friends.

Just being able to go outside any time is so freeing,” said Kiki.

Although she doesn’t speak Spanish yet, she finds Spanish people “super welcoming,” and has found that people back in the Netherlands are much more “distanced.”

“In Holland, your life is spent inside because of bad weather and people are always complai -

“Spain has this culture of being in touch with your feelings, being sensitive and appreciating more. That’s the kind of life I want to live.”

NO matter what one may personally think about her, there is no doubt that Greta Thunberg is prepared to be arrested in the fight for the environment.

Some would argue she is as much about pushing herself forward as she is about the almost impossible demand to fight climate change, but she certainly gets noticed as does whichever organisation she supports.

This time, on June 25, she was part of a demonstration in the Finnish capital Helsinki where between 1,000 and 2,000 demonstrators answered a ‘call to battle’ from Elokapina, the Finnish branch of Extinction Rebellion. They started with an event in front of the Parliament Building and then moved on to a busy crossroads during rush hour with the intention of stopping traffic as a matter of civil disobedience.

Their aim was to highlight their demand to end state subsidies that are harmful to the environment and they are threatening an escalation of these demonstrations over the coming days and weeks.

Although no official figures have been released concerning the number of activists arrested, Elokapina claim that police detained around 140 people including Greta Thunberg who was released later the same day.

PAMPLONA’S BULL RUN BUST-UP!

WHAT would the spectacular San Fermin festival (starting this week) be without the bulls?

That’s the question that’s sparked outrage among diehard fans of the world-famous event in Pamplona, known for its thrilling bull runs and fights.

The president of the local clubs has kick-started a fiery debate by suggesting scrapping the bulls altogether. Traditionalists fear it’d be the end of a centuries-old custom that inspired Hemingway’s ‘The Sun Also Rises’.

Bullfighting’s popularity in Spain has long been on the, err, horns of a dilemma. Catalonia banned it in 2010, but the Spanish government declared it a “cultural heritage” in 2013.

San Fermin and bullfighting in general stand at a crossroads. Tradition clashes with changing values, and the decline isn’t solely a result of animal rights activism. It’s a complex situation with a mix of politics, economics and a changing Spanish taste for thrills and spills.

Well, here’s my alternative San Fermin: corgis. Yes, corgis! Let the participants take part, pursued by dozens of small dogs. The sheer volume of barking (let alone the nipping at the ankles of runners) would add the necessary bit (or ‘bite’?) of danger! I took my own dog to the vet last week. He picked Fido up and said, “Sorry, but I’m going to have to put him down.” I said, “WHY?” He said, “He’s too heavy.” Oops!

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.

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Kiki Groot.

Expat or Immigrant? VOX Pop

Credit: Margouillat Shutterstock

FAMILIES MOVE TO SPAIN FROM OTHER COUNTRIES.

STROLLING through the streets of Spain, a familiar debate among European residents often arises: are they expatriates or immigrants?

Talyta Franca, Class 2026, Northwestern University in Qatar Traditionally, ‘expatriate’ is often associated with temporary stays, while ‘immigrant’ suggests a permanent move and integration into the local culture.

However, Dana , originally from Russia, dismisses the need for labels. “I don’t believe in those terms,” she says, “I think in our modern world, where one can live wherever they want and not necessarily stay in one place all their life.”

For her, the choice to live in different places should be seen in a more normalised way. “It doesn’t mean they [residents] haven’t settled. It’s just our new reality,” she adds.

In contrast, Kamila Ptaszynska , a 30-year-old from Poland, confidently identifies as an immigrant, since her deep personal and professional connection to Spain aligns her with long-term plans to stay.

“I live and work in Spain and I hope to spend many more years there,” said Kamila.

Similarly, Laura Kemppi , 29 who is Finnish, also sees herself as an immigrant. “I thought about this for a while, but then I came up with the answer,” she said, “The reasons why I think I am an immigrant is that I live in Spain, I work in Spain and I pay my taxes in Spain.”

On the other hand, Marcello, 34, from Italy, prefers the term expatriate. He believes the distinction often relates to social class and nationality.

“To me, an immigrant sounds like someone who is not accepted in the country where they are, and also someone who is running away from their home country,” he explains.

The different points of view show that the choice between ‘expatriate’ and ‘immigrant’ is more than semantic, it reflects personal narratives in society about identity, belonging, and class.

Paula who is Scottish understands the concept that the word expat is unacceptable to some, but said “It’s a bit like 1984 by George Orwell and it’s a thoughtcrime to use language which everyone understands but has now been redefined as something different.

“I believe that when one refers to an expat it’s really a simple short word which means someone who has moved from one country to another but nowadays it’s supposed to evoke the concept of colonialism and theft of identity and natural resources.

“Personally I think that’s nonsense but unlike some, I don’t want to tell others what they can or can’t say.”

KAMILA PTASZYNSKA LAURA KEMPPI

Bold blue revival

IN the ever-evolving world of beauty trends, what’s old often becomes new again. Blue eyeliner and mascara, reminiscent of bold 80s and 90s fashion, are making a striking comeback in 2024. This resurgence is part of a broader re vival of vibrant, statement-making make-up that encourages self-ex pression and individuality.

Celebrities and influencers are leading the charge, showcasing daring looks on red carpets and social media platforms. The appeal of blue hues lies in their versatility and ability to make eyes pop, pro viding a fresh alternative to tradi tional black. Whether it’s a subtle navy flick or electric blue lashes, these shades add an unexpec ted twist to any makeup routine.

Moreover, contemporary formulas ensure that these products are more wearable than ever. Long-lasting,

Soda secrets

BAKING SODA, or sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile household staple with remarkable health and beauty benefits. Its natural properties make it a go-to solution for various everyday issues, promoting well-being and enhancing beauty routines.

One of baking soda’s primary health benefits is its ability to neutralise stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn and indigestion. Simply mixing a teaspoon with water can alleviate discomfort quickly. Additionally, its mild antiseptic properties make it effective in treating minor skin irritations, insect bites, and rashes.

In the realm of beauty, baking soda is a powerful ally. It acts as a natural exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and leaving skin feeling smooth and refreshed. A paste made of baking soda and water can be used to brighten teeth, providing a gentle yet effective whitening treatment. For hair, baking soda can clarify and remove buildup from styling products, restoring natural shine and softness. Affordable and easily accessible, baking soda is a must-have for those seeking natural health and beauty solutions. Its multifunctional uses demonstrate how simple, everyday items can contribute to a healthier, more radiant lifestyle.

What is Cortisol

CORTISOL is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, often referred to as the ‘stress hormone’ due to its role in the body’s response to stress.

It helps regulate various functions, including metabolism, immune response, and blood sugar levels. Cortisol follows a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the morning and gradually declining throughout the day.

Effects of Excess Cortisol:

Too much cortisol can lead to several health issues. Chronic high levels, often due to prolonged stress or conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, can result in weight gain, particularly around the abdomen and face, high

Cortisol: Conversely, insufficient cortisol, as seen in Addison’s disease or adrenal insufficiency, can cause symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, and low blood pressure. It can also lead to a decreased ability to respond to stress, resulting in potentially life-threatening situations during physical or

Maintaining balanced cortisol levels is crucial for overall health,

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HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com

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HAY FEVER, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne substances such as pollen, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Common symptoms of hay fever include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, itchy throat, nose or ears and coughing.

Hay fever

These symptoms can vary in severity and are often mistaken for a common cold. However, unlike a cold, hay fever symptoms persist as long as the individual is exposed to the allergen.

Hay fever is primarily triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. The pollen sea-

son can vary depending on geographic location and climate.

Managing hay fever involves several strategies:

Stay indoors on high pollen days, keep windows closed, and use air conditioning to filter the air. Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticoste-

ACCORDING to a report by the National Statistics Institute, around 350 people died in Spain from heat stroke and dehydration during the summer months of 2022. With Europe experiencing the greatest warming, up to one degree more than the global average, it is more important than ever to take sensible precautions when the temperatures start to soar.

Heat stroke occurs when the body’s cooling mechanism of sweating stops functioning and is considered the most serious heat-related illness.

The body’s temperature rises rapidly, often as high as 40 degrees, within 10 to 15

Avoiding

heat stroke

minutes. Heat stroke can affect anyone, although the elderly, infants, persons working outdoors, those with obesity, circulation issues, and mental health conditions are especially susceptible.

The good news is that heat stroke is preventable with just a few sensible precautions. The first and most important is to drink plenty of fluids and avoid dehydration. This is crucial to enabling the

body to sweat and maintain a normal temperature. Also, choose loose-fitting clothing so that the body has room to breathe and cool down properly.

Sunburn can seriously impact the body’s ability to cool, so be sure to use a suitably high-factor sunscreen. This needs to be applied generously and frequently, particularly if swimming or sweating. Even so, avoid spending too much time in the heat, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Check any medications to ascertain if they are likely to affect the body’s ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat. If so, take greater precautions to stay cool and drink extra fluids to compensate.

Costa

del Sol Train to fight cancer • News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

CANCER patients are offered free training in Fuengirola during the summer months.

Fuengirola Council has renewed their agreement with Juanma Garcia exercise centre so that these residents can continue to exercise in July and August despite classes concluding.

Julio Rodriguez, Sports councillor at Fuengirola Council thanked Juanma for his involvement ‘specifically for such sensitive groups that need continuous attention.”

Last year, senior citizens benefited from this agreement.

There will be 30 places up for grabs which will be combined with personalised training.

Juanma Garcia, a graduate in Social Sciences said: “The Department of Sports is always attentive to any initiative and Julio always offers us facilities to be able to offer this service that has the sole purpose of helping cancer patients and people with functional diversity in our centre.”

Costa Blanca South Duke’s legacy

THE legacy of the Duke of Edinburgh lives on in Vega Baja. This year, 49 students from ELIS Villamartín School in San Miguel de Salinas joined the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh International Award (DofE) programme.

The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, started the DofE programme to help young people develop practical and personal skills beyond the classroom.

Over the years, the programme has grown internationally, benefiting millions, including many from Alicante Province.

Since its start in 1956, the DofE has introduced young people to new interests, helping them gain confidence and a sense of purpose.

The DofE programme is for young people aged 14 to 24 and has four sections: Volunteering, Physical Activity, Skills, and Expedition.

Completing the DofE is a significant achievement that enhances teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.

Mallorca A Place in the Sun

LAURA HAMILTON, a familiar face to fans of Channel 4’s property programme A Place in the Sun, has recently revealed her love for Mallorca on her official Instagram page, calling it one of her “favourite places in the world.” The presenter has hinted that she plans to spend more time on the island.

This news comes after Laura bid farewell to her long-time home in the UK. While Laura expressed a sense of accomplishment reflecting on the renovations she made to the property, there was no hint of sadness about leaving. “I wasn’t planning on selling this property,” she wrote, “but a few months ago, the time came for myself and my children to move on and say goodbye to this wonderful home... I don’t feel sad. In fact, quite the opposite.”

Mallorca looks forward to welcoming Laura to the island!

Costa Blanca North Guided tours

A GREAT way to get to know Altea’s heritage is to participate in one of the free guided tours.

The tours are organised throughout the year by the municipal Tourism department and are offered in Spanish, Valencian and English.

Altea’s Tourism councillor, Xelo González, has confirmed that details for July’s tours are now available. Guided tours will take place on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the month, starting at 7.30pm from the Tourist Info located at Passeig Sant Pere.

The only requirement to attend is to register in advance at altea@touristinfo.net, as the maximum capacity is 30 people.

Alternatively, registration can also be done by phone on (+34) 965 844 114

Xelo González has encouraged participation from residents and visitors and urges those interested in discovering Altea to sign up as soon as possible for these guided tours through the Old Town, as they are very popular.

Almeria

Life savers

ON the morning of Saturday, June 29, two lifeguards at the Tabernas municipal pool saved the life of a 16-year-old swimmer.

Almost like an elaborate episode from a film it appears that the two 17-year-olds Antonio Martinez Jaén and Ionut Bogdan Ciuborariu had only started their jobs the previous day and suddenly within 24 hours they were called into action.

A group of boys turned up at the pool and jumped in, but one of them suddenly found himself in difficulties and started to drown. The lifeguards pulled him out of the pool and began to resuscitate him, bringing him back to life and waiting with him whilst an ambulance arrived to take him first to the nearby health centre and then to hospital where he is said to be recovering.

The local council has singled out these two young men and congratulated them on their incredible action which has saved a life

Costa Calida Foreigners welcome

THE Union of Professionals and Small Self-Employed (UPTA) predicts that the Murcia region will need 4,000 more self-employed foreigners over the next five years.

Currently, there are 10,180 international self-employed workers registered in Murcia, which is a 41 per cent increase over the last 10 years. According to Eduardo Abad, the president of UPTA, industries like retail, hospitality, agriculture, transportation, construction, and domestic services will be particularly in need of these workers.

Abad recently met with Pilar Cancela, the Secretary of State for Migrations, to discuss simplifying the process for foreigners who want to start their own businesses in Spain. He emphasised the importance of welcoming international entrepreneurs and moving away from xenophobic attitudes. This initiative aims to boost Murcia’s economy by attracting more foreign entrepreneurs to contribute to key sectors.

Are the Americans here to stay? Oh, yes!

FROM COAST TO COAST

BY: LUCCA

FROM the Heartland to the Heart of Spain: Embracing New Adventures Abroad.

Embracing Global Opportunities Amid America’s Economic Strengths!

As the dust settles post-Covid, the US economy is flaunting its comeback skills and grabbing global attention. How did Uncle Sam pull off such a rebound?”

Well, American workers aren’t just putting in hours - they’re setting new standards in tech and energy, driving economic growth like never before. Add America’s talent for leading in AI, renewable energy, and innovation, and you’ve got a formula for success that’s turning heads.

But it’s not just about hitting goals; it’s about smart economic moves. The US has been making wise choices with spending and forward-thinking energy plans that keep things running smoothly. And let’s not forget the dollar’s global reputation - it’s like having a currency that dances through economic challenges with ease.

Beyond the numbers, Americans are feeling the urge to explore. They’re leaving their usual surroundings for the lively streets of Barcelona, the cultural buzz of Madrid, and the captivating charm of Malaga and its province. Spain isn’t just a destination anymore - it’s a lifestyle upgrade with cultural riches and a

quality of life that’s truly enviable. Costa del Sol, chiringuitos, here we come!

Americans deeply cherish Spain’s cultural heritage, traditions, and historical legacy, woven into the strong ties between Spaniards and Americans. The impact of Spain’s colonial past has left a lasting mark on American shores, especially in places like Arizona, California, New Mexico, Texas, and more, creating a deep appreciation for its cultural tapestry.

Sure, there are hurdles - visa issues, tax troubles, and a weaker dollar, you name it. But recent trends show Americans moving past these barriers and embracing new opportunities abroad. Economic confidence is driving this shift, promising not just travel but a vibrant exchange of cultures and economic benefits.

And let’s talk timing. With the euro and dollar nearly equal since 2002? It’s a green light for Americans to explore and maybe even settle abroad, making travel more affordable and relocation more appealing. Pack your bags and embark on a journey where personal and economic growth align perfectly!

As a proud yet humble immigrant, I echo the words of John F Kennedy: ‘Immigration is the heartbeat of American history.’ Now embraced by the arms of Spain, these words resonate deeply, reflecting the journey and contributions of countless individuals like myself who have found a new home. Spain, thank you for making us feel that ‘su casa es mi casa’ connection!

Turn that noise down!

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

SO who else watched the CNN Presidential debate? What I saw wasn’t two potential World leaders, what I saw were two old men - one who should be in prison and the other that should be in a nursing home. It was embarrassing to see Biden struggling to put a sentence together and Trump just made things up as he went along, telling lie after lie. I read a report that said Trump told a lie every 100 seconds which, if true, is just ridiculous.

Any questions Trump didn’t like, he just didn’t answer and Biden seemed unable to stay on track - quite upsetting really. Trump has already declared that if he wins he will go ‘after’ his enemies, whatever that means. It sounds like a dangerous threat to me. I’ve said before, in a country of over 300 million, this can’t possibly be the best they can come up with.

So I’ve been watching the Euro footy on TV and it’s very interesting how differently Patti and I see the game. I’m looking at England not playing as good as they should, thinking has Southgate

put the best team out, not using the subs correctly and other stuff that armchair critics do best. Patti, on the other hand, is much more concerned that the grass stains on the shirts and shorts are going to be a nightmare to get out, even going as far as to say they’re more difficult than curry sauce! The thing is she has planted that thought in my head and now I think about it every time they go sliding across the pitch. I’m getting older, that’s a fact, and I know it’s better than the alternative, but it doesn’t seem that long ago I was getting excited about the latest Nokia mobile phone that not only made calls but could send messages too. Now my phone can run a small country. The only problem is when the apps you have to use don’t work, you’re stuck with nowhere to go.

The other thing about getting older is I now choose supermarkets and restaurants by their playlists. I can’t stand the music they play in these places. I don’t know who chooses it but it’s all so annoying. I actually ask them to change it in restaurants sometimes and they look at me like, are you joking? And I say I’m not joking, please change it or turn it down because, after all, I am a grumpy old man. Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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

MOVALDI PRESIDENT AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

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

Tech pet watch

Need a pet-sitter? We help you find real animal lovers

WHEN you’re away from home it can be hard to leave the pets in the care of another person. It is so much more comforting to know your pet can stay in their own home and be cared for by real animal lovers.

MONITORING pets while at work has become increasingly feasible with the advent of pet cameras and smart devices. These gadgets allow pet owners to keep an eye on their furry friends in real-time, providing peace of mind and ensuring their pets’ well-being. Pet cameras often come equipped with features such as two-way audio, treat dispensers, and motion detection, enabling owners to interact with their pets remotely.

There are several benefits to monitoring pets. It helps detect signs of anxiety, boredom, or distress, allowing owners to address issues promptly. It can also prevent destructive behaviour by enabling timely interventions. Additionally, seeing their pets happy and safe can reduce owners’ stress and improve their work productivity.

However, constant monitoring may also have downsides. It could lead to over-dependence on technology and potentially increase anxiety if the owner becomes overly concerned with their pet’s behaviour. Balance is key; monitoring should enhance pet care without causing undue stress for both pets and owners.

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, just like old fashioned barter.

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

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?

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

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

Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation! Reader exclusive offer - 20% Off Any New Membership Register as either house-sitter or homeowner. Get a 20% discount - Use coupon code PERFECT20.

transporting

Colourful Kitty Care

A REVOLUTIONARY new cat litter has entered the market, designed to help cat owners monitor their pet’s health more effectively. This innovative product changes colour in response to the pH levels in a cat’s urine, offering a simple and non-invasive way to detect potential health issues. The litter contains special pH-sensitive granules that react to the acidity or alkalinity of the urine. Normal, healthy urine typically results in a neutral colour, while significant deviations can signal various health concerns. For example, highly acidic urine might turn the

litter a bright colour, indicating possible urinary tract infections or kidney problems. Conversely, more alkaline urine can signal issues like bladder stones. This colour-changing cat litter provides an early warning system, allowing owners to seek veterinary care promptly. By closely monitoring these changes, cat owners can ensure their feline friends receive timely medical attention, potentially preventing more severe health problems. This product not only offers peace of mind but also contributes significantly to the overall well-being of cats.

FOR SALE/WANTED

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BLINDS

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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 service - please contact Fr Nigel with an e-mail address if you would like to join us. Priest in Charge, Father Nigel Thomas. Tel: Church House951 815 736, Mobile: 608 695 756, e-mail:  cofenerja@ gmail.com

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel678 716 693 (288662)

INSURANCE

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455

For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com (2887610)

MASSAGE

NERJA. Hi! Beautiful masseuse, spectacular attributes. Relieve stress, personalised massage, unforgettable sensations. 642 268 665 (FU 3299)

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)

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)

WINDOW TINTING

Cooper 5-Door Revealed

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

A FEW months after the launch of the three-door, BMW has now launched the five-door MINI Cooper. It co mes with a choice of two petrol engines that, BMW say, deliver hallmark MINI go-kart feeling.

The new Cooper is almost identical in dimensions to its predecessor and offers three trim levels - Classic, Exclusive and Sport - and is priced from €28,406/£24,050 OTR.

Two petrol engines, a 154 PS three-cylinder petrol unit with 230 Nm of torque, providing a top speed of 225kph/140m ph and passing the benchmark 100kph/62mph in 8.0 seconds.

The second engine is a 201 PS four-cylinder petrol unit with a maximum torque of 300 Nm, acceleration from 0 to 100kph/62 mph in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 241kph/150 mph.

Classic, Exclusive and Sport trim levels each offer an array of exterior and interior personalisation options. Classic

trim presents a subdued overall exter nal appearance while still highlighting key elements such as the MINI wings logo, which is finished in Silver.

The Exclusive trim brings further customisation options, adding British Racing Green and an all-new colour, Icy Sunshine Blue exterior paint, Vescin Nightshade Blue interior, a dark interior headlining and the front grille in Vi-

What coloured road lines mean

PAINTING different coloured lines on the side of Spanish roads, is not an experiment in showing all of the colours of the rainbow, but each colour has a meaning.

So the following is a brief explanation of which colour represents which rule:

White lines

White lines painted on the side of the road indicate that you can park your vehicle there as long as you wish without having to pay, although some spots may be reserved solely for the disabled.

Yellow lines

A continuous yellow line indicates that parking is not allowed in that area although you may be able to stop briefly to load or unload your vehicle if the yellow line is interrupted at the kerb or edge of the road.

A yellow zig zag line indicates that the area is reserved for a special purpose such as a bus stop, taxi stand or delivery area and private vehicles may not stop there.

Parking on a yellow line can attract a fine of €200.

Blue lines

Blue lines allow parking but this needs to be paid for by obtaining a parking ticket which needs to be displayed clearly but in many areas, parking is free at lunchtime, night time, weekends or national holidays, but this can be checked at roadside ticket machines.

BLUE LINES: Indicate that parking should be paid for.

Orange lines

In some municipalities, orange lines have appeared which indicate that parking is available for local residents only at certain times of the day and signs will advise what the rules are.

Red lines

The same rules as orange lines.

Green lines

Green lines are similar to red and orange lines as they indicate a reserved parking area for local residents but anyone may park for up to two hours if they pay a fee, but green lines can also indicate short term parking for services such as taxis.

Generally speaking you should never park on or partly on a pavement unless there is a sign indicating it is acceptable and a much less known and not obvious restriction means that if you park in the opposite direction to the traffic flow, then you could be fined.

brant Silver. Finally, Sport trim provides Sports Transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel, and to set it apart there is a distinctive front and rear design plus a rear spoiler with air blades.

Central to the MINI Cooper’s interior is a circular, 24cm/9.4 inch OLED display, where all the vehicle’s functions

can be operated via either touch or voice control. The upper half of the screen displays vehicle-related information such as speed and important information on vehicle status, while the lower area houses Navigation, Media, Phone and Climate.

All other functions can be accessed via the menu with the display returning to the default setting via the home button. The optional headup display presents the most important information in the driver’s line of sight.

In conjunction with the MINI Connected Package, the full MINI Navigation Package has 3D visualisation of turn situations, a display of the current traffic situations even when route guidance system is not active, and information on parking facilities. Built at the home of MINI, MINI Plant Oxford, the new MINI Cooper 5 Door is priced from €28,406/£24,050 OTR, with first customer deliveries commencing next month (August).

ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE

A fiesta of football on Axarfusion Finals day! (part 2)

BOTH Over 50s and 60s Axarfusion Finals took place recently, hosted at Internacionales Mollina’s home ground. Last week, we reported on the Over 60s Final. This week is the report for the Over 50s Final! Marbella Marbesula 1 v 2 Malaga

After several previous close encounters between these two in league and tournaments this season, this was always going to be a titanic struggle and so it proved! The first minutes saw both teams trying to sound each other out without really creating any clear cut chances. The usual Marbella classic pass and move game threatened to open up Malaga on occasions but one or two moments of flair from various Malaga players threatened to to do the same to their adversaries. However, both defences stood rock-solid and, approaching half time, it looked as if the scores would be even, when a fine through pass to Malaga’s Pedrin allowed him to beat his defender to the ball by centimetres and poke it on the stretch past the Marbella goalie to open the scoring. The second half followed much the same pattern with both defences keeping their opponents at bay and only allowing long shots to be taken, most of which fizzed past or over the woodwork or were easily dealt with by both goalies. Midway through the half though, a great move on the Marbella right resulted in what looked like

being a cross but was actually a terrific pinpoint shot from Paco Fernadez Franco, by-passing the Malaga defence and rocketing into the Malaga goal to even the scores. It seemed as if we were moving into extra time with only a couple of minutes to go when a Malaga attack on the left allowed Pedrin to execute a cheeky back heel to Captain Fran who blasted the ball underneath the keeper and into the Marbella net from a fairly acute angle. And that is how it remained until the final whistle. Commiserations to Marbella Marbesula who, having been runners up in both League and Cup and first attempt Tournament Winners in their first season in the AWFL, are certainly going to be a force to be reckoned with. And congratulatons to Malaga who have ‘done the double’ of League and Cup, were Rojales Tournament Winners and reached the semi finals of the Eurocopa this season!

Football for migrants in Spain

WHILE the excitement of Euro 2024 captures the global spotlight, a diffe rent kind of football story unfolds in Spain. Here, on dusty pitches and local fields, the beautiful game serves as a lifeline for many migrants, particularly young asylum seekers.

Spain, a southern gateway to Europe, sees a steady influx of migrants each year. In 2023, near ly 57,000 individuals arrived, many fleeing hardships in South America and Africa.

Among them were over 2,500 unaccompa nied minors seeking refu ge.

Football clubs across the country are stepping up to offer a sense of belonging and opportunity.

FC Darna, a team founded in Barcelona, exemplifies this spirit. Starting in 2019 with limited resources and bound less enthusiasm, Darna (me

aning ‘home’ in Arabic) provides a space for young migrants, mostly from Morocco, to build identities

Many young people, facing personal tragedy and hardship, find solace and purpose in football. The sport plays a vital part in migrant integration. Teams like Los Dragones, another club chosen for the Adidas Football Collective initiative, provide a platform for connection and community building. As these young migrants find their place on the pitch, they are also finding their way in their new homes.

Credit:Naimul

Football in Spain provides a sense of belonging and purpose for players.

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